January 2008February 2008 March 2008

April 2008 May 2008 June 2008 July 2008 August 2008 September 2008 October 2008 November 2008

January 3, 2008

News

Public comment sought on city rate increase

The City of Alturas has adopted a substantial rate fee increase for water and sewer service, and will have a public hearing on those increases for January 15, 6 p.m. at City Hall.

The City has proposed a $15.61 base increase in the water rate, going from the current $28.21 to $43.82 and a $5.51 increase in the base sewer rate, going from the current residential base of $23.48 to $28.99 and from the current commercial rate of $17.58 to $23.09.

An informational workshop is scheduled at City Council Chambers January 9, 6 p.m. The council will explain why the rates are being raised as well as how the city arrived at the rate increases.

The $43.82 base water rate allows up to 1,000 cubic feet of water use. Any usage over that is billed at .44 cents per hundred cubic feet of water used.

A combination of the two rates means an overall monthly increase for sewer and water of $21.12, going from the current base of $51.69 for residential to $72.81.

Written or oral comments can be presented at the Public Hearing January 15, or written comments can be submitted between now and then to the Clerk's Office at City Hall. The council will hear oral comments at the public hearing.

If the rate increases are approved as presented, they would become effective January 16, 2008. In addition to the proposed increase, the base rates for sewer and water will be increased equal to the Consumer Price Index effective on July 1 of each following fiscal year.

The rate increase were triggered partly by the state's requirement that the Alturas Sewer plant be repaired and refurbished to meet water quality standards as well as maintenance and age issues with the current sewer and water system.

No DUI arrests on New Year's

Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes was pleased to report that there were no driving under the influence arrests for New Year's Eve this year.

"I don't remember that ever happening," Barnes said. "It might be a sign that people are taking the law more seriously and having designated drivers, or not taking chances. I know the Desert Rose Casino had offered and gave many rides home from its celebration. Our guys even took a couple of people home." Barnes said reports he's heard from around the northstate also indicate that people were more responsible when it came to drinking and driving this year. Fore instance, one traffic checkpoint in a neighboring county stopped 200 cars and not a single driver was arrested for DUI.
"Driving under the influence is a serious offense and law enforcement is making every effort to enforce the law," Barnes said. "We can't stress enough that if a person is going out to party, a designated driver is literally a lifesaver."

Hospital debt increase for year over $2 million

Modoc Medical Center's debt to Modoc County spiraled to $9,796,084 at the end of December, according to tentative figures released by the Modoc County Auditor's Office.

That means the debt has risen $2,282,154 since January of 2007. The auditor's numbers will be reconciled this week and if those figures change, the difference will be reported. The debt has increased since September 2005's $4,690,812 by a total of $5,105,272.

What December's total reflects is an increase over November's

$9,455,953, of $340,131. That's on top of an increase of $406,011 for November.
The debt was reported at $9,049,942 at the end of October, down $59,416 from $9,109,358 in September. That October number has since been judged as incorrect and no positive impact was realized.

In August the debt was $8,855,311, up from July's total of $8,242,609.77.
The debt to Modoc County first went over the $8 million mark in June
at $8,023,311.68, an increase of $128,430 from $7,894,881 at the end of May, which was an increase of $196,649.

The debt was $7,698,232.34 at the end of April, which had been a slight improvement ($26,011.50) from the end of March's debt of $7,724,243.85. February's debt total was $7,471,849; at the end of January the debt was $7,513,930.

Modoc Fair seeks 2008 theme, board members, exhibit additions

The Modoc District Fair is accepting theme suggestions for their annual Fair Theme Contest. When submitting themes, please keep in mind that the creation of feature booths, parade entries, still exhibits and floral entries usually focus around the theme.

The contest winner will receive admission for two to Friday or Saturday's grandstand event. The dates for this year's Fair will be August 21-24.

Submit theme suggestions by January 19, 2008, 12 p.m. All participation will be appreciated.
Two vacancies currently exist on the Board of Directors. Applications to fill the vacancies are being solicited. The position of Director includes attendance at monthly meetings at the fairgrounds, making decisions regarding the Fair and other activities at the Fairgrounds throughout the year and performing other Fair-related activities. Meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Cedarville Fairgrounds office. Applicants should be familiar with and enthusiastic about Fair activities.

Applications for Board appointments must be submitted electronically to the Governor's office, available on the State of California, gov.ca.gov, and online board applications. For more information regarding becoming a Director and other Fair activities, please contact Dannette DePaul, Manager 279-2315, or a current Board members, Jeannine Primorac, Seab McDonald, Brian Cain, Ken Roberts, Diana Milton, Carol Sharp or Michelle Anderson. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend monthly meetings.

In addition, the Modoc District Fair will be revising the Exhibit/Premium Book in February. "We welcome suggestions for improvements on existing exhibit entries and new ideas to hold the interest of Fair exhibitors and patrons. The Board of Directors will review all recommendations. Please submit suggestions before February 29, 2008," encourages Manager DePaul.

Contact the Fair office by phone: 530-279-2315, Fax 530-279-2555, email: mdocfair@hdo.net or mail: P.O. Box 26, Cedarville, CA 96104.

Obituaries:

Franklin Lee Hayes

Former Alturas resident Franklin Lee Hayes, 74, passed away in peace, surrounded by his family on December 29, 2007, at home in Burney, CA.

Mr. Hayes was a very family-oriented person who was greatly loved and will be deeply missed. He was a wonderful husband to Kathryn, his wife of 53 years, father to 13 children and grandfather to 40 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Born in Little Rock, Arkansas to Lee Owen and Nova Irene Hayes, on September 5, 1933, he served in the U.S. Army from April 7, 1953 until his discharge April 6, 1955. He and Kathryn Hill were married on July 15, 1954 in Klamath Falls, OR. They were living in Placerville before relocating to Alturas over 23 years ago. Frank was known to enjoy camping. About five years ago, he moved to Burney.

In loving memory of Frank Hayes, his family will gather for private graveside services at 1 p.m. January 5 at the Alturas Cemetery. Kerr Mortuary is handling arrangements.

Mr. Hayes is survived by his wife Kathryn of Burney; his 13 children: Jeanne, Round Mountain, CA; Karen, Palmer, Alaska; Kathy of Eagle River, Alaska; Vickie, Elko, NV; Kimberly, Portland, OR; Frank Jr., Alturas, CA; Mark, Grants Pass, OR; Shawna, Modesto, CA; Dawna of Burney, CA; Jerry of Gunnison, CO; Leah of Burney, CA; Joshua of Alturas,, CA; and Anna of Burney, CA
We love you Papa. Rest in peace.

Sports

Wood second in Reno

Modoc's 215-pound Josh Wood took a second place in the big Reno Invitational last weekend, losing to the second-ranked California State wrestler.

Coach Shaun Wood, and Josh's father, said the scoring was a little creative and he believes Josh can beat that wrestler if they meet again. Wood went 5-1 in the tournament.

Heavyweight Jacob Ketler went 4-2 in the tourney, and finished just out of the medals. David Holloway, at 160 pounds went 2-2 and Tyler Wood went 1-2.

Several other wrestlers ran into stiff competition at Reno and went 0-2, including Tre Wright, Victor Garcia, Kevin Richardson and Tim Holloway.

The Braves travel to Anderson this weekend for one of the bigger northstate tournies. Wood will be favored in his division and coach Wood expects several of his wresters to do well.

Coming events in sports-

High School sports are on break until after the holidays but have games this weekend.

The girls, will start league play by hosting Weed Jan. 8. Burney will come to Modoc Jan. 11 and Modoc will travel to Mt. Shasta Jan. 15.

Modoc wrestling team is the consensus favorite to continue its stranglehold on SCL wrestling. No team has challenged the Braves this decade.

The whole wrestling team is idle, but a selective few went to the huge Reno Invitational last weekend. On Jan. 4-5, the team will compete in the Anderson tournament.

January 10, 2008

News

Alturas man dies in trailer accident

An Alturas man, Clint Mansker, age 41, died Thursday from injuries sustained when a mobile trailer at Modoc Medical Center he was helping move, fell and pinned him underneath.

Mansker was freed by a fellow worker William Voth, Eddy Hill, who lives near by, and others and taken into the Emergency Room. The ER was adjacent to the trailer. The accident occurred at about 2 p.m. and Mansker succumbed to his injuries about an hour later.

According to Modoc Sheriff Mark Gentry, Voth credited Mansker with saving his life. Voth told the Sheriff that Mansker advised him to move just before the trailer fell. Voth was still under the trailer when it dropped, but was able to free himself.

Gentry said the pair was working for North State Mobile Homes, under contract to move the trailer and make room for a new unit, which would house the recently purchased CT Scan. The older trailer was used as the ambulance office and other related hospital services.

Gentry said the trailer had been jacked up and there are reports that a very strong gust of wind could have been at least partly responsible for the trailer falling. Winds that day had gusted between 40 to 60 m.p.h.

Gentry also said that while the ER personnel called to get an air ambulance to transport Mansker out for care, those ambulances were all grounded because of the high winds throughout the north state. According to Gentry, the pathologist report indicates Mansker was so severely injured that a transport would not have saved his life.

According to Gentry, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, conducted an investigation of the accident site on Friday afternoon. The results of that investigation have not been released.

New dam proposal could flood Stone Coal

A new proposal to build a dam at Ostrum Point could mean the flooding of Stone Coal Valley to form a new reservoir.

The Lookout Grange is asking the Modoc County Board of Supervisors on Jan. 15 to support a feasibility study for the project.

According to Norm Carpadus, the Chairman of the Water Storage Committee for the Grange, the California State Grange is making the dam project a top priority for the Secretary of Agriculture.
Carpadus will make a presentation to the board, arguing that Ostrum Point is a better location for a dam than what was once proposed as the Allen Camp Dam project in the 1980s. He said Ostrum point has two hills sloping down on either side of the Pit River, and is a natural setting for a dam.
According to Carpadus, a recent arrival to the Lookout area, the project is asking for 90,000 acre feet of flood storage and 20,000 acre feet for flood control. In addition, he cites electric power generation and recreation as positive aspects of the project.

There are large ranches in Stone Coal Valley, and those owners and residents will have a say in what happens. Stone Coal is also a historic site.

One of the issues driving the project, according to Carpadus, is that Big Valley ranchers and farmers have been tapping into aquifers that are drying up, and are considering drilling very deep "super wells" to tap the water source. He said Big Valley needs more water storage and the state is looking seriously at storage options throughout California.

A feasibility study will have to address all the issues involved.

Public meeting on water, sewer rates Jan. 15

The City of Alturas has adopted a substantial rate fee increase proposal for water and sewer service, and will have a public hearing on the issue January 15, 6 p.m. at City Hall.

The City has proposed a $15.61 base increase in the water rate, going from the current $28.21 to $43.82 and a $5.51 increase in the base sewer rate, going from the current residential base of $23.48 to $28.99 and from the current commercial rate of $17.58 to $23.09.

The $43.82 base water rate allows up to 1,000 cubic feet of water use. Any usage over that is billed at .44 cents per hundred cubic feet of water used.

A combination of the two rates means an overall monthly increase for sewer and water of $21.12, going from the current base of $51.69 for residential to $72.81.

Written or oral comments can be presented at the Public Hearing January 15, or written comments can be submitted between now and then to the Clerk's Office at City Hall. The council will hear oral comments at the public hearing.

If the rate increases are approved as presented, they would become effective January 16, 2008. In addition to the proposed increase, the base rates for sewer and water will be increased equal to the Consumer Price Index effective on July 1 of each following fiscal year.

Tribes, government hospital issue sets historic goal

On Tuesday, the Modoc County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution to form the Modoc Frontier Healthcare Coalition and Tuesday night the Alturas City Council did the same.
That resolution is set for a meeting between local Indian Tribes Monday morning and from there the wheels will really start to turn on the proposal to seek funding to build a new hospital in Alturas.
Belinda Brown, Director of Strong Family Health Center, and the spearhead of the hospital funding proposal, said there is support among the tribes, but each has the opportunity to support the resolution approved by local government. The Tribes involved currently include the Pit River, Cedarville Rancheria and Fort Bidwell.

Once the resolution is adopted, a Memorandum of Agreement will be hammered out and work will begin in earnest to prepare an appropriations bill to submit to the U.S. House of Representatives in March. According to Brown that request will be asking for between $60 and $80 million to build a new hospital in Alturas. She said it's possible an actual grant application could be required by July.
"One of the things that needs to be clarified is this is a government-to-government agreement between the city, county and the Tribes," Brown said. "It is historic and perhaps a first for the nation."

Jerry Smith, former Alturas City Councilman and a member of the group that will take the proposal to the U.S. Congress, said the confusion surrounding the issue needs to be clarified. This effort to secure funding for a new hospital is separate and distinct from anything the Save the Hospital Committee is doing or that the County is doing to shore up the current operation of the hospital. Those things will dovetail in the future, but Frontier Health Coalition's goal is to secure the appropriation for the new facility.

Smith said he certainly wasn't downplaying the efforts of the county or the SOH group, but at this time the coalition's focus is on the appropriation.

Brown stressed that the Tribes want to have representation on the appropriations committee, which would include a representative from county and city government and from each of the Tribes involved. She stressed the Tribes are not concerned about having representation on a committee charged with the day-to-day operation of this hospital or the new facility.

"The Tribes want to be on the board to see the appropriations all the way through," she said. "That's our goal and we see this as being on safe ground. This is a strong proposal that helps the entire community."

Once the resolutions are approved and an MOA established, the grant application will actually go to the Health Resource and Services Administration, HRSA, under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Brown said the Tribes' access to federal funds will allow them to leverage more funding, and the fact that the city, county and Tribes are in cooperation on the project will be a major benefit.
Smith said what's important is that the community understand what the Frontier Hospital Coalition's goals are and not confuse them with the other efforts to maintain a hospital in Alturas. All of the entities are vital and have a serious role to play.

Brown successfully secured a $500,000 grant recently from HRSA, which was used by Surprise Valley and Modoc Medical Center.

According to Smith, this proposal is very strong and will meet the criteria for funding. While the funding could be appropriated this year, a new hospital is a ways off with all the planning, architectural, site and building issues. Smith figures the facility would be up and operational in five to eight years.

January 22 last day to register to vote

January 22 is the last day to register to vote in the Feb. 5 California Presidential Primary Election.
People who have never registered, have moved or changed addresses or changed political parties need to register to vote by that deadline. To register a person must be a United States citizen, a resident of California, age 18 or older by election day, not in prison or on parole for conviction of a felony, and not have been judged by a court to be mentally incompetent to register to vote.

Voters must register to vote in the county where they live, Call the Modoc County Clerk's Office at 233-6201 to request a registration form or go to that office, or the Department of Motor Vehicles, Post Offices or go online to the Secretary of State's office or call the toll free voter registration hotline at 1-800-345-8683 and request a form.

January 29 is the last day for county election officials to receive a request for an absentee ballot to be mailed and Feb. 5 is the day absentee ballots must be returned to the elections office or to a polling place.

Poles are open Feb. 5 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check the back of the sample ballot to find out where to vote. Many of the precincts in Modoc County are mail-in ballots only.

It's important to note that in this presidential primary, Decline to State voters can vote in the Democratic presidential primary, but only registered Republicans may vote in the Republican presidential primary. In addition, the only issues on Feb 5 primary are the presidential primaries and seven state propositions.

Mail-in ballots for Modoc include Lake City, Fort Bidwell, Eagleville, Likely, Davis Creek, New Pine Creek-Willow Ranch, Canby, Parker Creek, Adin-Lookout, and Day.

Voters will go to the polls in Alturas A, B, C, and D, Cedarville, Hot Spring, California Pines and Cedarville.

Supervisor seats on June Primary

There are three Modoc County Supervisor seats up for election in the June Primary Election: those of District Two's Mike Dunn, District's Three's Patricia Cantrall and District Four's Shorty Crabtree.
Candidates are taking out in-lieu papers now, but the first day to actually file for office is February 11 and the nomination papers must be returned to the County Clerk by March 7. There are indications that there will be contested races in all three districts this year.

Obituaries:

Clinton Ward Mansker

Clinton Ward Mansker died Thursday, January 3, 2008, in Alturas, CA at the age of 41. His premature death came as a result of an accident he sustained while working. The Alturas resident was the beloved father of three children, a husband and friend. He had made Modoc County his home for the past 28 years.

Clint was a hard worker over the years in carpentry, as a cook and setting up mobile homes. He enjoyed building things, working on cars, fishing, racing cars and being a family man. He also enjoyed his dogs and nature.

Born in Garden Grove, CA on February 19, 1966, to Doyle and Margie Louise Mansker, he earned his GED. On December 13, 2005, he married Megan Ann Sweeney in Alturas, CA. On June 5, 2007, their daughter Jade Wyatt Sandra Louise Mansker was born.

Clint was preceded in death by his parents Doyle and Margie Mansker of Alturas and his daughter Brittnie Mansker.

He is survived by his wife Megan of Alturas; son Bronson Mansker, Lancaster, CA and daughter Jade Wyatt Mansker, Alturas, CA; siblings Richard Anderson, Sheila Anderson, Debra Russell, Doyle Mansker, II and Betsy Lamez.

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 11 at 10 a.m. at Kerr's Chapel in Alturas. Pastor Dewey Potter will conduct the service with burial to follow at the Alturas Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Kerr Mortuary.

Richard G. 'Sam' Rossington

Richard G. "Sam" Rossington, 79, of Alturas, CA passed away November 9, 2007 in Palmer, Alaska, where he was undergoing medical treatments, while staying with his son Frank and daughter-in-law Summer Rossington and their family. "Sam" as he was known, had many friends and touched many lives while living in Alturas. He was an independent, kind and intelligent person. He loved adventure, visiting Alaska and was an avid reader and prolific writer who often submitted "Letters to the Editor."

Sam was born August 22, 1928, in Ohio. He served in the United States Navy from 1944 through 1988, until he retired as a Boatswain Mate Chief. While serving in the Navy, he was involved in the following campaigns and received the following medals: Asian, Asiatic/Pacific, American Defense, World War II, Victory Medal, Korean War Service, Vietnam Service, National Defense and Good Conduct award. He was a life member of AmVets. He was also a devout supporter of Al-Anon and AA.

In his memory, a bronze marker will be placed on the wall at the Big Flag in Alturas. A memorial brick will also be placed at Klamath Falls Veterans' Park. Both efforts are being arranged by his local friends.

Sam will be missed by his many friends, but will live on forever in their hearts. He is survived by family members in Idaho, Ohio and Alaska.

John Lewis Valena

Long-time Alturas resident John Lewis Valena passed away in Alturas, CA on December 26, 2007 at the age of 90.

An electrician who worked on electrical towers spanning the west from Canada to the Mexican border, Mr. Valena was a member of the Electricians Union. An on the job accident in which he was electrocuted and subsequent medical issues, forced his early retirement. During the years that followed, he loved to fish for bass and Eagle Lake trout and enjoyed spending time at his Eagle Lake property. Mr. Valena had maintained his home in Alturas for 61 years.

Born in Albion, Humboldt County, CA, on December 5, 1917, to John L. Valena, Sr. and Lena Mary Valena, he was one of six boys and four girls. He served six years in the U.S. Navy and received his discharge in 1946. He and Beverly White were married in Virginia City, NV on December 2, 1960.
He is survived by his wife Beverly of Alturas, CA; step-children Terry Ingersoll of Redding, Dixie Mahan, Redding, Marian Luna of Summer, Arkansas; Joanne Bowman, Klamath Falls, OR; stepson Steven Horning, Hilmar, CA; sisters Darlene Brown, Lakeview, OR; Wilda Turner, Lakeview, OR; and Mary Lou Riley, Clermont, FL. and many nieces and nephews, along with 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

Services were held December 28 at the Alturas Cemetery. Kerr Mortuary handled arrangements.
Donations in memory of Mr.Valena may be made to the University of California Davis Medical Center -- Regional Burn Center, 2315 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95817-2201.

Sports

Wood wins Anderson invite, Burney next

Modoc's 215-pound Josh Wood went 5-0 to win the Anderson Invitational last weekend, beating the number two ranked wrestler in the section 15-4. Wood is the top ranked North Section wrestler at that weight and is also holding down the fifth place ranking statewide.

Heavyweight Jacob Ketler also had a good tournament, taking third place and moving up to number three in the section.

Two other wrestlers went 2-2 in the tourney: Alex Moreo at 103 pounds and Josue Madrigal at 140 pounds.

Finishing with one win and two losses were: David Holloway 160; Tyler Wood 171; Victor Garcia 125; Kevin Richardson 119; and Miguel Torres 215.

The Braves travel to the Burney Invitational this week and should be one of the favored teams to win the event. Several of Modoc's wrestlers are expected to make the finals.

Hoop games cancelled

Tuesday night's Modoc High School basketball games against Weed were cancelled by the Weed principal because of the snowstorms.
The Braves are scheduled to travel to Burney Jan. 11 and to Mt. Shasta Jan. 15 as they open Shasta Cascade League play.

Girls youth hoops signups

Modoc girls youth basketball registration for girls in grades fifth trough eighth, will be held Jan. 14 and Jan. 15 at the latch Key Buildings, Room 3, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The cost of registration is $10. Games are scheduled every Saturday from Jan. 19 through March 1, except Feb. 23. Fore more information, call Audrie at 640-9210 or 233-4529.

January 17, 2008

News

City approves water, sewer rate increase

The Alturas City Council Tuesday night approved a substantial rate increase for water and sewer rates which goes into effect Jan. 16, raising rates to $72.81 per month.

The rate means a $15.61 base increase in the water rate, going from the current $28.21 to $43.82 and a $5.51 increase in the base sewer rate, going from the current residential base of $23.48 to $28.99 and from the current commercial rate of $17.58 to $23.09.

The $43.82 base water rate allows up to 1,000 cubic feet of water use. Any usage over that is billed at .44 cents per hundred cubic feet of water used.

A combination of the two rates means an overall monthly increase for sewer and water of $21.12, going from the current base of $51.69 for residential to $72.81.

About 20 citizens attended the public hearing Tuesday night, and some expressed concern that the rate increase will make things hard for them.

Mayor John Schreiber said he understands the rates will be a hardship on some elderly or low-income residents. He said he's going to look into setting up a fund through another agency or churches that may be used to offset some of the negative impacts.

In addition to the proposed increase, the base rates for sewer and water may be increased equal to the Consumer Price Index effective on July 1 of each following fiscal year. Schreiber said the council opted to look at those rate increases each year

Alturas Public Works Director Chester Robertson has put together a comprehensive study explaining the need for the rate increases and it will be detailed next week in the Record. He also intends to disseminate an annual financial statement to the public to show exactly what the financial situation of the water and sewer departments.

Robertson believes the city has a responsibility to be open and honest about the financial picture and those decisions that must be made to correct or meet obligations.

County okays letter in support of feasibility on Stone Coal dam

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday agreed to draft a letter in support of a feasibility study for a proposal to build at dam near Stone Coal Valley.

The board stressed that the county would not pay for the feasibility study and did not indicate approval or disapproval of the project at this point. Proponents of the plan had not contacted landowners or affected public land agencies prior to the presentation at Supervisors.
The proposal to build a dam at Ostrum Point could mean the flooding of Stone Coal Valley to form a new reservoir and is being proposed by the Lookout Grange.

Norm Carpadus, the Chairman of the Grange Water Storage Committee showed the plan to the Board in a power point presentation and was asked to clarify several issues.

He has said the California State Grange is making the dam project a top priority for the Secretary of Agriculture.

Carpadus argues that Ostrum Point is a better location for a dam than what was once proposed as the Allen Camp Dam project in the 1980s. He said Ostrum point has two hills sloping down on either side of the Pit River, and has been determined as a natural setting for a dam.

According to Carpadus, the project is asking for 90,000 acre feet of flood storage and 20,000 acre feet for flood control. In addition, he cites electric power generation and recreation as positive aspects of the project. He estimated a project about 15 miles long, as the river flows, or seven to nine miles in a straight line.

One of the main issues driving the project, according to Carpadus, is that Big Valley ranchers and farmers have been tapping into aquifers that are drying up, and are considering drilling very deep "super wells" to tap the water source. He said Big Valley needs more water storage and the state is looking seriously at storage options throughout California.

A feasibility study will have to address all the issues involved and landowners will have input into that study. In addition, overall costs, exporting Modoc water, environmental impacts, including some threatened or endangered species, historic, archeological, land use, and timber resources will have to be addressed.

3 Modoc Supervisor seats on June Primary, challengers emerging

It appears there will be challengers in the upcoming Modoc County Supervisoral election in June with all three incumbents seeking re-election.

The seats up for election in the June Primary Election are District Two's Mike Dunn, District's Three's Patricia Cantrall and District Four's Shorty Crabtree.

In District Two, Jeff Bullock, of Bullock's Donuts, has taken out papers and in District Three, Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley has entered the race. No one has taken out papers as of yet to run against District Four's Shorty Crabtree, but it's very early in the process.

While candidates are taking out in-lieu papers now, the first day to actually file for office is February 11 and the nomination papers must be returned to the County Clerk by March 7.

Also, January 22 is the last day to register to vote in the Feb. 5 California Presidential Primary Election.

People who have never registered, have moved or changed addresses or changed political parties need to register to vote by that deadline. To register, a person must be a United States citizen, a resident of California, age 18 or older by election day, not in prison or on parole for conviction of a felony, and not have been judged by a court to be mentally incompetent to register to vote.

Voters must register to vote in the county where they live. Call the Modoc County Clerk's Office at 233-6201 to request a registration form or go to that office, or the Department of Motor Vehicles, Post Offices or go online to the Secretary of State's office or call the toll free voter registration hotline at 1-800-345-8683 and request a form.

January 29 is the last day for county election officials to receive a request for an absentee ballot to be mailed and Feb. 5 is the day absentee ballots must be returned to the elections office or to a polling place.

Polls are open Feb. 5 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check the back of the sample ballot to find out where to vote. Many of the precincts in Modoc County are mail-in ballots only.

In this presidential primary, Decline to State voters can vote in the Democratic presidential primary, but only registered Republicans may vote in the Republican presidential primary. The only issues on February 5 primary are the presidential primaries and seven state propositions.

Mail-in ballots for Modoc include Lake City, Fort Bidwell, Eagleville, Likely, Davis Creek, New Pine Creek-Willow Ranch, Canby, Parker Creek, Adin-Lookout, and Day.

Voters will go to the polls in Alturas A, B, C, and D, Cedarville, Hot Spring, California Pines and Cedarville.

Comprehensive agreement for Klamath Basin Restoration

The details of a proposed Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement were released today by the Klamath Settlement Group. The Group includes representatives from diverse Klamath Basin communities and officers from tribal, federal, state, and county governments that all have a stake in water and power management in the area. The Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement is the result of more than two years of negotiation among interest groups as varied as farmers who rely on irrigation water from the Klamath watershed system to conservation groups dedicated to improving habitat for fish and other wildlife.

Key provisions of the Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement include a program to rebuild fish populations sufficient to sustainable tribal, recreational, and commercial fisheries; reliable water allocation to sustain the needs of the agricultural community and national wildlife refuges in the basin; a program to stabilize power costs in the area; and a compensation program for counties that may be impacted by the removal of the identified hydroelectric facilities. Implementing the agreement, as it is currently outlined is expected to cost approximately $400 million in new funding over 10 years.
"The Klamath River was once the third greatest Pacific salmon producing stream in the lower 48 states," said Brian Barr of the National Center for Conservation Science and Policy. "Decades of degrading habitat and blocking fish from 300 miles of stream have caused wild salmon populations to drop by 90 percent. We need to build a robust future for the Klamath River and the communities that depend on it."

The Klamath Settlement Group was first formed in 2004 after PacifiCorp applied to the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for relicensing of five mainstream dams it currently runs on the Klamath River. The lower three dams block passage for salmon, steelhead and lamprey to over 300 miles of spawning and rearing habitat. Under the federal relicensing process, parties can submit to FERC a preferred negotiated outcome. Negotiations with PacifiCorp on an agreement are still proceeding.

The groups still face one significant hurdle before the proposed agreement can be adopted and implemented and that is an agreement to remove PacifiCorp's lower four Klamath dams.
"The Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement marks a major stride forward in bringing peace to the Klamath River," said Brian Stranko, Chief Executive Officer of fishing and water quality advocacy group California Trout, one of the conservation groups that participated in the Proposed Agreement. "This is, however, only half of the pie. We also need success in negotiations with PacifiCorp to remove four mainstem dams before this Basin Restoration Agreement can be signed and implemented - the two separate agreements make a non-severable package."

"It hasn't been easy; it was a tough several years putting this proposal together, but I've got new found respect for all the communities involved from Tribal to environmental and farming," said Chuck Bonham of Trout Unlimited. "I am also hopeful we can develop a good business deal that works for PacifiCorp and for the river too. We can and should do both."

The Proposed Agreement developed a series of priorities for water management that take into account the competing needs of farmers, fish, power users, and protected natural habitat in the area.

"Removing these dams makes sense," said Steve Rothert of American Rivers. "By releasing the proposed Basin Restoration Agreement today, we're saying that there is a better way, and that ongoing environmental degradation is no longer an option. It's time to bring disparate groups together and work out realistic solutions that will pave the way for a better, more responsible future."
The Klamath Settlement Group is working on two agreements: the Basin Restoration Agreement and the Hydropower Agreement. The Klamath Settlement Group will approve both concurrently after public review and completion of the Basin Restoration Agreement, and negotiations for the Hydropower Agreement are concluded. As a package, these agreements will create effective and durable solutions that will restore and sustain natural production of fish species throughout the Klamath Basin, establish reliable water and power supplies to sustain agricultural uses and National Wildlife Refuges, and contribute to the public welfare through responsible management practices.

Obituaries:

Fern E. Harper

Fern Harper, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister was called home by Jesus on December 31, 2007, in Redding, California, surrounded by family and friends after a long struggle with congestive heart failure.

Born August 2, 1927, in Lake City, CA, to Preston and Frances Jones, Fern was reared in Modoc County where she was educated, married and reared her family. Fern was the beloved wife of Jack Harper, married 62 years.

Jack served in World War II. Fern waited for him while working at the Oakland Naval base. Fern then transferred to Long Beach until Jack returned home from the Pacific front. Jack and Fern were married October 5, 1945. They enjoyed that first Christmas in San Diego. The couple returned to Modoc County to build their home on the family ranch. Fern was the mother of four children: Bonnie Porter (Ed Porter), Jackie Andrews (Ron Andrews), Mary Armstrong (Dan Armstrong) of Redding and Gordon Harper (Leslie Harper) of Carmichael. CA.

Fern raised her family in the Adin Community Church. She taught Sunday School and helped with Vacation Bible School. She participated as a room mother and attended many school games and events. Fern was a member of Adin Community Church for many years. She held a life-long membership with the Adin Ladies Auxiliary.

Grandma Fern lived for her family. She enjoyed every visit and telephone call with one of her 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Grandma Fern's favorite thing in life was to get each and every family member together.

She will always be loved and remembered, always in our prayers and thoughts.

Four siblings have preceded her in death. Fern has one brother, John, who resides in Montana.
Interment will be at the Adin Cemetery.

Capt. Vernon A Brown

Vernon passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on New Year's Day, January 1, 2008. He was a long time resident of Rossmoor in Walnut Creek, CA.

A native Californian, he was born Sept. 19, 1918 and raised in Alturas, CA where he loved playing football in high school. He received a degree in forestry from UC Berkeley following in the steps of his father, William S. Brown, a well respected state forester.

Vern worked 40 years for the US Geological Survey as a cartographer and helped make the official topographic maps of Hawaii and the Western United States. He spent many years surveying the rugged mountains and deserts of Northern California and Utah and was delighted in the early 60's to be sent home to his beloved Modoc County to remap that area.

During WWII he was called to active duty after Pearl Harbor and captained a couple minesweepers including the SS Strategy, clearing the approaches of Iwo Jima, Okinawa and the East China Sea. He received Bronze Stars for his heroic rescue efforts during the war.

He always enjoyed square dancing and was a Deacon and Elder at the Sunnyvale Presbyterian Church. After moving to Rossmoor he was an active member of the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church and founded the Rossmoor Big Band so he could play swing music on his saxophone. Vern enjoyed his childhood growing up in Alturas and was proud of his Modoc pioneering families, the Davis's and Hartleroads. For a number of years, he and his wife Lyda attended the Modoc Picnic in the Sacramento and liked visiting with other Modocers. Vern always had a fond place in his heart for Modoc County.

His loving wife Lyda of 58 years and his sister Mary Todd preceded him in death. His ever-present smile will be missed by daughter Karen Phillips and son-in-law Dr. Stephen from Walnut Creek, son Dr. Bill V. Brown and daughter-in-law Michiko from Fall River Mills as well as granddaughter Mimi Brown in Bristol, England, grandsons Tim Phillips and his wife Cori in Sacramento, Rusty Phillips in San Francisco, Vern Brown Jr. in Ridgecrest, and Jeff Phillips in Walnut Creek. He will also be missed by a large extended family and many friends, especially his good friend, Marie Emley.
A memorial service celebrating Vernon's life will be held on Sunday, January 20th at 1:30 PM at the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive, Lafayette, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions made to the Modoc County Historical Museum, 600 South Main Street, Alturas, CA 96101, in memory of Vernon Brown.

Sports

Braves win Burney wrestling tourney

Modoc's Braves won the Burney Rotary Invitational wrestling tournament last weekend with 174 points, beating Central Valley's 154. Shasta Cascade League rival Trinity finished third with 141.5 and Quincy was fourth with 133.5 points.

The Braves only had two champions in the tourney, Josh Wood at 215 pounds and Jacob Ketler at heavyweight. Wood decisioned teammate Miguel Torres in the title match. Ketler pinned his opponent in the first round to win the title.

David Holloway took third place at 160 pounds and Tyler Wood was third at 171 pounds. Wood had the most pins of the tourney with four.

Tyler Stains wrestled to a fourth place finish at 189 pounds. Cody Book was fourth at 103 pounds and Alex Moreo was fifth. Victor Garcia took a fourth place at 130 pounds. David Potter was fifth at 112 pounds and Kevin Richardson was fifth at 119 pounds.

Josue Madrigal took a sixth at 140 pounds and Kyle Hartman was sixth at 152 pounds.

Team scores were as follows: Modoc 174; Central Valley 154; Trinity 141.5; Quincy 133.5; Upper Lake 116; Chester 113; Corning 89; Mt. Shasta 74; Hamilton City 62.5; Bonanza 53; Etna 47; Truckee 43; Westwood 40; Modoc 2, 36.5; Fall River 26; Burney 20, Big Valley 14 and Tulelake 2.

Modoc take its varsity team to Mazama in Klamath Falls this weekend and the junior varsity will go to Fall River.

Braves knock off Weed to open SCL

Modoc's boys' varsity basketball team upset Weed 45-36 Jan. 12, avenging an earlier 67-54 loss to the Cougars.

Modoc trailed 11-10 in the first and 26-19 at halftime but fought back to a 33-31 lead after three and won the fourth period.

According to Modoc coach Keith Weber the strategy going into the game was to stop Weed's prolific three-point game. That plan worked as the Cougars only hit one three-pointer. Trent Schmidt led the scoring with 14 points, Dee Hunsaker and John Hughes each added 12.

That game came off a Friday night win against Burney 60-56, thanks to a 21-3 fourth period. Burney led 13-10 in the first and 32-22 at the half. Burney still maintained a 53-39 lead after three, but Modoc got hot in the fourth. Schmidt led the scoring with 18; Hunsaker added 15 and Daniel Morgan had 11.

The Braves travel to Fall River Friday and play host to Etna Saturday.

Modoc beat Mt. Shasta 54-45 after getting off to a slow start Tuesday. The Braves and Etna Lions remain unbeaten in League and Etna comes to Modoc Saturday.

The Bears led 16-7 in the first and the game was tied at 24 for intermission. Modoc went up 39-37 after three. Justin Estes led with 14 points and Hunsaker added 10.
Modoc girls open strong

The varsity girls' team also opened with two wins, beating Burney 46-42 and Weed 43-26.

Modoc took an early 17-10 lead against Burney and by halftime held a 24-21 advantage. Burney tied it at 34 after three and the Braves outscored the Raiders 12-8 in the fourth.

Sarah Catania led the scoring with 18 and Michel Funk added 13.

Modoc had no trouble with the Weed Cougars, taking an 18-9 first period lead and a 31-12 halftime lead. The Braves scored 12 and Weed 14 in the second half. Catania led the scoring with 25; Sami Schmidt and Emily Conner add six each.

The Braves got stomped in Mt. Shasta Tuesday 38-16. The Bears took a 10-8 first period lead and built that to a 16-8 halftime advantage, Mt. Shasta led 30-15 in the third and held the Braves to one point in the fourth. Schmidt led the scoring with seven.

Hornets beat Bulldogs in EL game

The Surprise Valley Hornet boys' varsity used a 29-9 fourth quarter run to beat the Butte Valley Bulldogs 70-61 Saturday in an Evergreen League contest.

Butte Valley had jumped out to a 17-12 first period lead and the Hornets cut that to a 32-30 lead by halftime. The Bulldogs bumped their lead to 52-41 by the end of the third, but the Hornets' strong fourth period sealed the win.

Jordan Mussa led Surprise Valley with 20 points; Ian Konz added 17 (five three-pointers), Geoffrey Washburn had 14 and12 rebounds and Chris Fenske had 11. The team's leading scorer for the season, Kevin Quick, missed the game because of a sprained ankle.

The Hornets beat Dunsmuir Tuesday 70-69 when Sal Ruiz hit a three pointer with nine seconds left in the game. Dunsmuir had a shot to tie the game with under a second left but a shooter missed the second end of two free shots.

The Hornets led 17-10 in the first and 32-26 at halftime. Surprise Valley held a 48-42 lead after three. Dunsmuir battled back in the fourth to take a 68-67 lead before Ruiz's trey.

Mussa led the scoring with 22, Washburn had 20, Ruiz added 15 and Fenske had 10.
The Hornets travel to Big Valley Friday and host Tulelake Jan. 22, game time at 4:30 p.m.

January 24, 2008

News

Hospital committee, Supes discuss district issues

Jim Sato was formally hired as interim administrator of Modoc Medical Center at Tuesday's board of supervisor's meeting. His contract will run from Jan. 18 until April 30. The former Trinity County Hospital administrator will be paid an amount not to exceed $75,000.

"One of the first things I want to do is revisit the $700,000 figure stated that the hospital will generate if they get their CAH designation. We need to be absolutely sure of what revenue will be generated in order to make a solid business plan," said Sato during a break at the supervisor's meeting. Sato has said the CAH designation for MMC should go through without much difficulty, although it could take time.

Marlin Ravago was hired as new clinic manager. It was reported that there was a 5 percent turnover in personnel at MMC and that the hospital lost $526,000 in November.

The BOS thanked the MMC Hospital Auxiliary for purchasing $50,743 in new equipment for the facility.

Mike Mason, chairman of the SOH committee told the board that without everyone's support the effort to save the hospital will fail. County CEO Mike Maxwell indicated that there were many questions to be answered before the BOS could endorse the SOH efforts.

"We need to get the answers to a long list of unasked questions, such as the conditions of transfer of hospital ownership. Without these answers, this effort is just rumor based and can't go forward," said Maxwell.

Mason then asked the BOS to come up with a list of their concerns so the committee could address them.

A motion made by Supervisor Pat Cantrall and seconded by Shorty Crabtree, both members of the new hospital committee, asking that the board adopt a resolution allowing (only if a hospital district is formed and funded by the voters) that the first hospital board be elected at the same election as the district formation.

In a call for discussion of the resolution, Cantrall was asked why not have the BOS appoint the hospital district board. Cantrall responded by saying that the general perception of the community is that the board cannot run the hospital adequately.

According to Mary Fender, the SOH's telephone survey of public opinion concerning the hospital situation indicated that approximately five percent of the respondees volunteered that they would not vote for a hospital district if the BOS were involved in appointing the board of directors.

Trinity County hospital has just gone through similar financial problems and formed a hospital district. Because of distrust of their government officials they decided to elect their first hospital board rather than have them appointed.

"In asking the board's support in endorsing AB245 Chapter 18 where the district board be elected by the people rather than be appointed by the BOS, we are addressing the concerns of the citizens of this county. This resolution has nothing to do with unasked questions about the hospital district or whether it is voted in or not," explained Judy Mason, chair of the SOH's LAFCO committee.
The resolution was denied in a 3 to 2 vote.

Administrator Sato, who was the CEO at Trinity during their successful district formation process, indicated that emergency legislation could be enacted at the state level and the resolution may not yet be dead.

During a later discussion Mike Mason clarified that even though two former hospital board members indicated an interest in the SOH actions, they didn't say they wanted to be on the board.

"The SOH committee will not take a political stance or support any specific individuals wanting to be on the hospital district board," said Mason.

In another matter, the appeal hearing filed by Vernon Knoch on a decision made by the Planning Commission concerning his proposed subdivision south of Cedarville was postponed because not all the adjoining landowners were notified in writing.

Even with rate increase, city water budget on edge

Alturas Public Works Director Chester Robertson knows the recently approved $21.12 sewer and water/sewer rate increase will be a burden for some residents, but his studies indicate that was on the low side of the equation.

The Alturas City Council approved the rate increase last week, which goes into effect Jan. 16, raising rates to $72.81 per month.

The rate means a $15.64 base increase in the water rate, going from the current $28.21 to $43.82 and a $5.51 increase in the base sewer rate, going from the current residential base of $23.48 to $28.99 and from the current commercial rate of $17.58 to $23.09.

The $43.82 base water rate allows up to 1,000 cubic feet of water use. Any usage over that is billed at .44 cents per hundred cubic feet of water used.

A combination of the two rates means an overall monthly increase for sewer and water of $21.12, going from the current base of $51.69 for residential to $72.81.

According to Robertson, there are a total of 1,304 sewer accounts in the city and 1,345 water accounts. In the water department rate increase, $6.47 is for debt recovery, $6.53 is for current operating deficits and $2.65 is to address immediate capital needs.

The sewer rate increase includes operation and maintenance, a loan repayment and capital needs improvement.

According to Robertson's detailed analysis. The water department's 2006 operation and management budget showed income of $352,839 and expenses of $485,776, a deficit of $132,839.

'It is not anticipated that it will be practicable that the current rate increase will be able to encompass debt recovery, current operating budget shortfalls, repairs and maintenance shortfalls, and the establishment of a capital replacement fund all at the same time," Robertson stresses. "The solution to resolve the water department's problems as identified in this report will require much more extensive management by City staff, increased scrutiny by the City Council, and extensive education efforts to ratepayers."

As a part of the ratepayer education process, Robertson plans on presenting an annual report to them, showing the true picture of the budget.

For instance the annual cash balance in the water fund for 2006/07 was a negative $277,480.
The water operating and maintenance fund has been seeing increasing negative cash for annually. "The negative cash flow has led to significant negative cash balance," said Robertson. "The expenses of the fund are currently carried through the pooled cash balance of the city. Staff projects a negative cash balance for this fund of $330,000 by January 08, before any new rates can legally become effective.

"The current problems facing the water department go beyond the negative cash flow and resulting debt. There are no reserves left for capital replacement . . . the current budget does not reflect adequate set aside for essential maintenance to the system . . . a rate set aside for monitoring, maintenance, and repairs of the system is needed to reduce current operating costs, maximize total assent life and minimize future capital expenditures. To put it bluntly, current management practice is crisis management."

Robertson wanted the city to incorporate a Consumer Price Index adjustment into the approved rate structure, but the council opted not to make that CPI increase automatic. The council prefers to take a look at the issue each year in the summer and make a determination.

"Due to the nature of the business, most of the large line items, such as labor, health care, retirement, workers comp, fuel and oil and liability insurance in the Water O&M fund have historically exceeded that of the CPI and will likely continue to do so," he said. "Electricity usage for pumping, one of the largest line items has been fairly stable in the past, but there is a current rate increase proposed by PP&L of as much as 13.3 percent."

About half of the prior rate was applied to pay a long-term debt to USDA for the 1993-94 waterline replacement project. That 40-year loan will be repaid in 2032.

Challengers expected for Supervisor seats

Some challengers have indicated they'll toss their hats into the upcoming Modoc County Supervisoral election in June with all three incumbents seeking re-election.

The seats of District Two's Mike Dunn, District's Three's Patricia Cantrall and District Four's Shorty Crabtree are up for election in the June Primary.

In District Two, Jeff Bullock, of Bullock's Donuts, has taken out papers and in District Three, Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley has entered the race. No one has taken out papers to run against District Four's Shorty Crabtree.

While candidates are taking out in-lieu papers now, the first day to actually file for office is February 11 and the nomination papers must be returned to the County Clerk by March 7.

January 29 is the last day for county election officials to receive a request for an absentee ballot to be mailed and Feb. 5 is the day absentee ballots must be returned to the elections office or to a polling place.

Polls will be open Feb. 5 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check the back of the sample ballot to find out where to vote. Many of the precincts in Modoc County are mail-in ballots only.

In this presidential primary, Decline to State voters can vote in the Democratic presidential primary, but only registered Republicans may vote in the Republican presidential primary. Those decisions are made at the state party level. The only issues on February 5 primary are the presidential primaries and seven state propositions.

Mail-in ballots for Modoc include Lake City, Fort Bidwell, Eagleville, Likely, Davis Creek, New Pine Creek-Willow Ranch, Canby, Parker Creek, Adin-Lookout, and Day.

Voters will go to the polls in Alturas A, B, C, and D, Hot Spring, California Pines and Cedarville.

Teenage pregnancies, STD's worry health officials

The Maternal Child and Adolescent Health (MCAH) Advisory Committee is writing this letter to inform the community and professionals of the increased rate of teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections among our youth in Modoc County.

According to Modoc County Public Health in 2007 there were 26 cases of gonorrhea and Chlamydia in the county with age ranges from 15-24 years old. Each case is investigated by a Public Health Nurse to determine treatment and prevention of the sexually transmitted infection. The statistics for 2006 were 14 cases, with 2005 showing 15 cases and 2004 and 2003 showing seven cases of gonorrhea and Chlamydia. The Health department is already showing cases for 2008 as well. Over the last four years the cases of Chlamydia and especially gonorrhea have increased drastically.
The Modoc County Public Health Department offers free pregnancy testing. According to their year-end statistics in 2007, 10 girls ages 19 and under, received positive pregnancy tests. This number only reflects what the Health Department tested, it does not include over the counter pregnancy tests or positive pregnancy tests taken at clinics. As the rate of teen pregnancy climbs the Public Health Department has also seen an increase in services/referrals for therapeutic abortions as well as Plan B (morning after pill). In 2006 positive pregnancy tests, for 19 years old and younger, were four and the same for 2005.

The Maternal Child and Adolescent Health Advisory Committee would like to acknowledge that this is a hard to reach population, while not ignoring this age range developmentally participates in risk taking behaviors. These numbers show that they are most in need of education and availability of preventative services. The MCAH committee is focusing on decreasing these numbers with collaborative support from the community and professionals by providing education and services to this population.

Obituaries:

David Lawrence Matulewicz

David Lawrence Matulewicz had never been sick a day in his life, while growing up in Walnut Creek, Grass Valley and Alturas, CA. The 36-year-old son, father and husband, was a fun-loving person who loved to collect things and who had a fascination about how mechanical things operated from the time he was a young boy. He was meticulous about his many collections, including his three classic Barracuda vehicles and his work at Aerojet in Washington.

David was born on January 18, 1971, in Walnut Creek to Frank "Ski" and Sheryl (Hooper) Matulewicz. He spent most of his young life in Grass Valley where the house was "always full of his friends," described his father. He graduated from Nevada Union High School.

In 1990, the family moved to Modoc County, CA, where David worked for California Market, Surprise Valley Bureau of Land Management, and as a parts distributor for Cedarville Airport, before moving to Washington. While working in Seattle for Precision Airlines, he started out building carburetors, then engines and moved his way up to Shipping manager and Parts Director before transferring to Aerojet in Washington. He was living happily with his successes in his home on the Snohomish River, where he loved fishing.

David was "greatly loved," expressed his mother. So, it is with great sadness among his family and friends, that his life was cut short as the result of a third and final brain tumor he had experienced in the past seven years, while holding down a successful job and loving life. David passed away at his home in Arlington, WA on January 11, 2008. A memorial service was held on his 37th birthday, at his Arlington home on January 18.

He leaves many friends as well as his family which includes his wife Darcia Matulewicz of Arlington, WA; his son Dylan, age 16 of Las Vegas, NV; his parents Frank "Ski" and Sheryl Matulewicz of Alturas, CA; sister Jennifer Potap and husband Ben of Alturas, CA; maternal grandparents Larry and Marietta Hooper, Lake of the Pines, CA; paternal grandmother Louise Sayers, Marquette, Michigan; four aunts and uncles on his mother's side and six aunts and uncles on his father's side, their spouses, and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces, and grand nephews.

Condolences may be addressed to the Matulewicz family at HC02, Box 25013, Alturas, CA 96101. Solie Funeral Home, 3301 Colby Ave., Everett, WA was in charge of arrangements.

Services for Don Eppler

Donald Leonard Eppler, a long-time Alturas resident, passed away in Redding, CA on January 16, 2008. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, Feb. 4 at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Alturas. Inurnment will follow at Alturas Cemetery. A fellowship gathering will follow at Sacred Heart Parish Hall, East Fourth Street, Alturas. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary. Mr. Eppler's obituary and photo will be published in a future issue.

Gilbert "Ray" Phillips

Former Canby resident, Ray Phillips, age 73, passed away, Wednesday, January 9, 2008, at home in Anderson, CA, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Muse, Oklahoma, on April 16, 1934. He moved to Canby, California in 1948, and resided in Shasta County since 1954. He was employed with Meeks Building Center/Western Buyers Trucking for over 35 years. He was an avid outdoorsman. His love of fishing and hunting took him to many states throughout the country.

He leaves his beloved wife, Barbara, of over 55 years. He is also survived by his family, Kathy and Chris Spalding of Anderson, Charlie and Ellen Phillips, and Lonnie and Leigh Ann Phillips, all of Cottonwood, and Mandy and Clarence Kirch of Redding; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-children. He also leaves two sisters, Gracie Davis of Silverton, Oregon and Janell Gerig of Bieber, and a brother, Lloyd Phillips of Yuma, Arizona. He will be missed by numerous nieces and nephews and many longtime friends.

At his request, formal funeral services will not be held. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Ellington A. 'Andy' Peek

Ellington A. "Andy" Peek passed away January 3, 2007 at his home in Cottonwood, with his wife and close family members at his side. Andy, with the support of his wife, Rhonda and his family, bravely fought his pancreatic cancer this past year. He demonstrated strength, faith and even humor during this difficult time.

Andy was born January 11, 1952 at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento. In 1955 the family relocated to the Cottonwood area. Andy graduated from Red Bluff High in 1970 and attended Shasta College, all the while working in the family livestock business, Shasta Livestock Auction and Western Video Market. Andy was president of Western Video Market which is an innovator in the video marketing of livestock across the Western United States. Andy was involved in numerous local and state programs, projects and organizations dealing with the livestock industry. He was former chairman and ex-director of the Shasta District Fair and served on the board of the National Livestock Marketing Association. He was a member of the Farm Bureau; the California Cattleman's Association and was recently named Tehama County Cattleman's 2007 Man of the Year. He gave his knowledge and talents to help his community in countless projects. Andy could be counted on to give a helping hand to those in need and was known by all as a man of deep integrity and honesty.
Andy is survived by his wife Rhonda and son Mason of Cottonwood; step-daughter, Tarin Regelin of Anderson; step-son J.P. Vansickle of Red Bluff and four step-grandchildren; parents Ellington and Betty Peek of Cottonwood; sister and brother-in-law Callie and Darrell Wood of Vina; sister and brother-in-law Laurie and Jerry Norene of Wheatland and brother Brad Peek of Elk Grove. Andy is also survived by two nieces, Dallice Wood of Susanville, Courtney Norene of Wheatland and two nephews, Ramsey Wood of Susanville and Matt Norene of Cottonwood.

A celebration of Andy's life was held January 9 at the Shasta District Fairgrounds at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers the Peek family would appreciate donations made in Andy Peek's name to one or all of the following charitable causes: Hirshberg Foundation (Pancreatic Cancer Research) 2990 S. Sepulveda Blvd. Suite C, Los Angeles, CA 90064. Mercy Hospice, 1544 Market St Redding, CA 96049. Andy Peek Livestock Scholarship, C/O Red Bluff Bull Sale, 270 Antelope Blvd., Suite 3 Red Bluff, CA 96080

Sports

Boys, girls split in SCL hoop action

Modoc's boys and girls varsity team split in Shasta Cascade League action last week, beating Etna, but losing to Fall River.

Fall River used a high-scoring offense to beat Modoc 75-59 Friday night on their home boards. The Bulldogs took a 22-17 first period lead and by half turned it into a 41-28 advantage. Modoc cut into the lead with 19-18 third period, but the Bulldogs outscored them 16-12 in the fourth. Erik Hubbard had 20; Taylor Sloat added 19 and Adam Brubaker 15 for the Bulldogs. Justin Estes put up 23 and Dee Hunsaker 11 for Modoc.

The Braves then turned around and handed Etna its only league loss of the season Saturday 54-46.

Etna jumped out to a 17-12 first period and led 28-27 by halftime. The team went cold in the third with Etna maintaining a one-point lead 34-33. Modoc outscored Etna 21-12 in the final period for the win. Trent Schmidt led Modoc with 32 and Hunsaker added nine.

Modoc's girls lost to Fall River 52-45, losing the first period 20-13 and the fourth period 15-4. The Braves won the middle quarters 16-12 and 12-5. Sami Schmidt led the scoring with 18; Sarah Catania added 10 and Emily Conner eight. Modoc had trouble with the bulldogs' Jessica Neugebauer, who scored 20 and picked off 12 rebounds.

The Braves beat Etna 50-42 the following night. The Lions opened with a 10-7 first period and led 22-15 at intermission. Modoc came back to cut the lead to 34-30 in the third, then outscored Etna 20-8 in the last quarter. Catania led with 18 points; Schmidt added 13 and Michel Funk had 10.

Modoc faces Mt. Shasta at home Friday and travels to Trinity on Saturday.

Modoc wrestlers scattered for weekend

Modoc's wrestling team will be somewhat scattered this weekend. The bulk of the team will travel to Central Valley Friday night and then to the Corning tournament on Saturday.

Josh Wood and Jacob Ketler will head to Gilroy for the prestigious MidCal tourney, facing some of the top wrestlers in the state. Wood is currently ranked number five at 215 pounds statewide and first in the North Section. Ketler is ranked third in the North Section at heavyweight.

Last weekend, Wood won the Mazama Invitational at 215 pounds and was named Outstanding Wrestler of the event. Ketler took a second, wrestling against one of the top ranked Oregon wrestlers.

In Mazama, 103-pound Cody Book won the title and 125-pound Victor Garcia won his weight division.

Josue Madrigal took a second at 135 pounds, with Tyler Stains taking third at 189 and David Holloway third at 160 pounds. Tyler Wood took a fourth place at 171 pounds.

While eight members of the team went to Mazama and placed third overall, the remainder of the team traveled to Fall River's tournament, where they also placed third.

Kyle Voth won the title in Fall River at 130 pounds, Alex Moreo was second at 103 pounds, Kevin Richardson second at 119 and Miguel Torres second at 215.
Third places went to Gustavo Chavez at 130 pounds, Tim Holloway at 135 pounds and Tre Wright at 145 pounds.

In addition, Modoc's Aurora Hall took a second in the girls' regionals in Sacramento at 146 pounds. That qualified her to wrestle at the girls state finals at Hanford High School Feb.1-2. She is ranked third in the state currently in the girls' 146 pound division.

January 31, 2008

News

Modoc votes Feb. 5 in presidential primary

Modoc will join California voters February 5 in the Presidential Primary election. California will be a big part of the "Super Tuesday" primaries across the nation.

Polls will be open Feb. 5 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check the back of the sample ballot to find out where to vote.

Many of the precincts in Modoc County are mail-in ballots only. Feb. 5 is the day absentee and mailed ballots must be in to the elections office or to a polling place.

In this presidential primary, Democrats and Decline to State voters can vote in the Democratic presidential primary, but only registered Republicans may vote in the Republican presidential primary. Those decisions are made at the state party level. The only issues on February 5 primary are the presidential primaries and seven state propositions.

According to the Modoc County Clerk's Office there are 5,214 registered voters in Modoc for this election. That's not many more than in 1984 when there were 5,108, when the votes were counted by hand.

Modoc will not have any issues with the electronic voting machines either, as the type used here have a paper trail. Some counties in the state that used touch-screen only machines had to make adjustments to satisfy the Secretary of State' office.

Mail-in ballots for Modoc include Lake City, Fort Bidwell, Eagleville, Likely, Davis Creek, New Pine Creek-Willow Ranch, Canby, Parker Creek, Adin-Lookout, and Day.

Voters will go to the polls in Alturas A, B, C, and D, Hot Spring, California Pines and Cedarville.
Local election in June

Challengers are emerging for the upcoming Modoc County Supervisoral election in June and all three incumbents are seeking re-election.

The seats of District Two's Mike Dunn, District's Three's Patricia Cantrall and District Four's Shorty Crabtree are up for election in the June Primary.

In District Two, Jeff Bullock, of Bullock's Donuts, and long-time resident Bob Clark have taken out papers. For District Three, Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley has entered the race. No one has yet taken out papers to run against District Four's Shorty Crabtree.

While candidates are taking out in-lieu papers now, the first day to actually file for office is February 11 and the nomination papers must be returned to the County Clerk by March 7.

Timeline speeds up for new hospital funding application

The deadline for submitting an appropriations application to the U.S. House of Representatives for a new Modoc hospital has been moved to Feb. 15, from an original date in March.

Jerry Smith, the coordinator of the multi-government effort, believes the Feb. 15 deadline is not a problem. He expects to have the application in the right hands before that date and is in steady contact with state and federal legislators

The government agencies involved - the City of Alturas, County of Modoc, Pit River Tribe, Cedarville Rancheria and possibly Fort Bidwell - have a tentative meeting Friday to adopt a Memorandum of Agreement to apply for grant funding.

Smith said some good news did come this week when David L. Yarbrough, Chief Adminsitrative Officer Senior Planner for Aspen Street Architects in Angels Camp reviewed the plans and determined the cost would be about half of what was projected as early as last week.

According to Smith, the cost for about a modular and upgradeable 35,000 square foot facility would be around $35 million, not the $60 to $80 million estimated recently.

Yarbrough told Smith, since Modoc Medical Center is a member of the Rural Health Design Network, it has the availability of using the Critical Access Hospital prototype, which is already Office of State Health Planning and Development, OSHPD, approved.

"Modoc Medical Center would only have to pay for the changes made to the footprint (floor plan) civil changes (on site and off site services, roads, drainage, etc.) and attendant changes to mechanical, electrical and structural systems," Yarbrough said. "This process would save MMC something in the neighborhood of $500-$700,000 in architectural and engineering fees."

Yarbrough said once funding and a site are secured, the prototype could be reviewed and the necessary changes made, in about four to eight weeks.

"Simultaneously, the entitlement process for the land, including local agency approvals, environmental considerations, soils analysis, geotechnical, archeological and agricultural survey would begin," he said. "The timeline for this process is hard to ascertain, but, ideally should be completed before construction begins . . . once the documents are complete and submitted to OSHPD, the review time would be 12-16 months, dependent upon the number of types of changes made to the previously approved prototype."

He figures the bidding process would take about 12 weeks after the plans are approved and actual construction about two years.

Smith said that if a local government agency, the city or county, can provide the actual building site for the new hospital, timelines would be even shorter.

"I'm feeling very confident about this project and things are falling into place quicker than expected," said Smith. "What we do need very soon are letters of support for the project from local people and entities. The more we get the better. This is really an important project."

Anyone willing to write a letter, should send it to: modocfrontierhealthcarecoalition@yahoo.com.

Two women rescued at Lava Beds

A pair of Rancho Cordova women was rescued by Modoc Sheriff's Deputies, the Park Ranger and other citizens Sunday after their 4x4 pickup became stuck in a snowdrift on the Lava Beds Road.
According to Modoc Sheriff Mark Gentry, Shirley R. Griffin, age 67, and her adult daughter Janice Johnson, of Sacramento, 44, were visiting the area and traveled to the Lava Beds. He said they drove past the "No Winter Maintenance" sign and their vehicle got stuck.

Gentry said his office received a call about 5:24 p.m. from the daughter indicating that they were stuck on the Lava Beds road. Four deputies responded with vehicles and their Snow Cat.
The searchers were concerned because a strong blizzard in that area had created major whiteout conditions.

The daughter apparently got out of the vehicle and started walking towards the Lava Beds Ranger station about 3:30 p.m. The mother stayed in the vehicle, which had a full tank of gas and remained warm. The Chief Park Ranger, Terry Harris, found Janice, about 7:45 p.m. and the other vehicle shortly thereafter. Sheriff's Deputies arrived in the Snow Cat and took the mother from her car about 8:30 p.m.
According to Gentry, two Klamath Falls residents, Michael Dooley and Mo Biria assisted the search with their snowmobiles.

Murder suspect faces three day preliminary hearing

A three-day preliminary hearing for Robert Chad Haralson, age 32, the suspect in the 1992 murder of Betty Lou Parks, has been set for Feb. 13, 14 and 15 in Modoc Superior Court.
Haralson remains in the Modoc County Jail with bail set at $500,000.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested Haralson May 25 in Casper, Wyoming. Modoc had issued an arrest warrant in late April for Haralson after the initial suspect in the case, Christopher Bradbury, accepted a plea bargain and identified him as the suspect in the Parks' murder.

As a part of the plea deal, the murder charge was dropped, and Bradbury pled guilty to an accessory after the fact charge. Bradbury must identify and testify against Haralson.

Parks, who had just graduated from Modoc Middle School, was reported missing in June 1992 and her remains were found by a hiker at a remote location in Modoc Estates in May 1993.

The case languished for more than a decade in the Modoc County Sheriff's Office before finally being turned over to the Department of Justice cold case investigator. That investigation led to the arrest of Bradbury in Shasta County.

Haralson who was 17 and an Alturas resident at the time of the crime has entered a not guilty plea and will be tried as an adult in the case. John Webster of Redding, who was appointed by the court, is representing him.

Obituaries:

Donald Leonard Eppler

Don Eppler, a long-time resident of Alturas, CA, passed away in Redding, CA on January 16, 2008. Services will be held Monday, February 4, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, East Fourth St., Alturas.  Interment will follow at the Alturas Cemetery.  A fellowship gathering will follow at the Sacred Heart Parish Hall, East Fourth Street, Alturas.

Don was born in Birmingham, Ohio on  August 15, 1927, to Loring and Georgie Eppler where he grew up and attended Birmingham High School.  On June 28, 1952, he married Elizabeth "Betty" Beursken.

Throughout Don's life he was employed by the following entities --  Norwalk Truck Lines, and Ohio Edison Power Company.  Following his tenure with these employers, Don relocated his family to Colton, California where he was employed as a maintenance person for the Redland School District.  Other ventures in life included being a part-owner of a persimmon ranch in Cottonwood, CA, and employment as a manager of a ranch owned by Tennessee Ernie Ford in Riley, OR.  In 1968, he and Betty purchased the Chief Motel (now known as the Wagon Wheel) in Alturas, and Don worked as a salesman for Carstens Motors. He was a co-owner of Lakeview Ag Center selling farm machinery. Following his retirement he thoroughly enjoyed driving the Modoc County Senior Citizen's bus, delivering meals to home-bound individuals, and assisting many others with their personal business.

In his early life he coached Little League Baseball, and provided transportation for the youth wrestlers from Alturas when a group was started many years ago. He was active in the Alturas Kiwanis Club, serving at one time with an honor guard for the Governor of California.  As a Kiwanis President, he was influential in bringing a Special Olympics event to Alturas for the first time. He also spent many hours volunteering for the Alturas Chapter of the American Cancer Society, and Sacred Heart Guild, serving as chairperson for many years. He was instrumental in the construction of the Alturas Park Pavilion. He was a member of the Nor-Cal Tractor Club in Redding.  For many years Don provided citizens of Alturas with transportation to out of town medical appointments and shopping trips.

One of Don's greatest joys in life was being with and watching his grandchildren participate in anything in which they were involved. From T-ball to college basketball, you could always find him cheering on his favorite players. He traveled many miles to watch and enjoy out-of-town games, and was the proudest grandpa when he attended the plays and concerts.   Another joy for Don was the opportunity of making trips to Alaska to visit his daughter and her family, and to be able to accompany his daughter, son-in-law and grand-daughter Mikayla on two luxury cruises.

Don is survived by Betty, his wife of 55 years; son and daughter-in-law Jay and Gail Eppler of Alturas, CA; daughter and son-in-law Raney and John Hardman of Eagle River, AK; grandchildren Micah and Monica Eppler and Mikayla Hardman; and numerous sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and friends.  Four brothers and five sisters, and a dear friend Sam Harris preceded him in death.

Don will be missed by family, friends and athletes of Modoc High School and Simpson University.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Modoc Unit of the American Cancer Society, 402 East Fourth St., Alturas or to the Modoc County Senior Citizens Center, 906 West Fourth Street, Alturas, CA 96101.

Harry Allen Larimore

Eagleville born and long-time Alturas resident Harry Allen Larimore passed away at his Alturas home on January 28, 2008. Mr. Larimore was 86. Services are pending, with the family planning to hold a service this Spring.

Mr. Larimore was born July 28, 1921 in Eagleville, CA.

In addition to several children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and extended family, Mr. Larimore's immediate family members in Alturas include his wife Beatrice and daughter Jane. The Record will publish further information as it becomes available. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Flora June Lord

Flora June Lord, known as "June," was born in 1916 in Likely, CA. She was the last surviving child of Will and Gladys Flournoy. June was married in 1935 to Philip B. Lord of Los Angeles. She lived for 56 years in the Susanville, CA area. She is survived by daughter Nancy Lord Enefer of Auburn, CA; Leanna Lord Fair of Portland, OR and Lois Lord Waller of Boston, MA, and she was "Nana" to nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

June was a life-long lover of all manner of livestock and wildlife. Her love of the beauty of nature was evidenced in her home and her art work. A life-long Christian, June found solace in her faith and in the friendships she developed within her faith-community. She died surrounded by her family in Redding, CA on January 19, 2008. She was 92. A family memorial for June was held on Tuesday, Jan. 22. Her inurnment will be with her late husband at the Likely Cemetery this summer.

Sports

Modoc expected to win 9th straight league title

Modoc's wrestling team is aiming to win its ninth straight Shasta Cascade League title this weekend in Mt. Shasta. Coach Shaun Wood said for the first time in several years, another SCL school, Trinity, could challenge for the championship.

"They are good in a lot of areas, but I don't know if they have the overall depth at all weights that we do," Wood said. "We'll have to wrestle well, but we should be able to win it again."

Wood is confident his upper weight wrestlers will do their part, and said if the light and middle weights come through, a win should be in the picture. The tourney starts with duals on Friday and the overall tourney on Saturday.
In last weekend's action, Modoc's 215-pound Josh Wood placed third at the tough Gilroy MidCal tourney. Wood lost in the quarterfinals, to a wrestler he then beat in the third place match.

For the tourney Wood won six matches and lost just one. The wrestler who won the event was the one that tripped Wood by one-point in the huge Reno tournament. Wood should move up in the statewide rankings to fourth. He's ranked number one at the weight in the North Section.

Jacob Ketler went 5-3 in Gilroy, taking eighth place in the heavyweight category.
While Ketler and Wood were in Gilroy, the rest of the team competed in a dual meet against Central Valley Friday and then in the 37-team Corning invitational on Saturday. The Braves lost the CV dual 40-27, and placed a very respectable seventh in the Corning Invitational. In addition to not having Wood or Ketler, Victor Garcia was ill and couldn't wrestle in Corning.

The Corning Invite saw Josue Madrigal take a third at 135 pounds; David Holloway took third at 160 pounds; Miguel Torres was third at 215; Tyler Stains was fourth at 189; Tyler Wood was fifth at 171 and Kevin Richardson was sixth at 119 pounds.

February 7, 2008

News

Modoc voters like McCain, Romney, Clinton, Obama

Modoc County voters tracked fairly close to all Super Tuesday results in the Presidential Primary.
Republicans choose John McCain here by 41.7 percent (712 votes); followed by Mitt Romney with 35.8 percent (612 votes); Mike Huckabee 13.9 percent (237 votes); Rudy Giuliani with 3.3 percent (56 votes); Ron Paul with 2.9 percent (49 votes); Fred Thompson with 22 votes, Duncan Hunter with 13 votes, Alan Keyes with seven votes and Tom Tancredo with two votes.

Modoc's Democrats were almost equally split with Hillary Clinton picking up 45 percent of the vote (478 votes) and Barack Obama getting 39.9 percent (424 votes). John Edwards picked up 11.9 percent (126 votes); Bill Richardson 16 votes, Mike Gravel nine votes, Chris Dodd and Joe Biden four each, and Dennis Kucinich two votes.

Since Modoc has substantial mail in and a large percentage of absentee voters, some of the candidates who had dropped out of the race before the California Primary, picked up votes early - Giuliani and Edwards specifically.

Statewide, McCain got the lion's share of the Republican votes with 42.1 percent, while Romney got 33.0 percent and Huckabee 11.6 percent. On the Democratic side, statewide, Clinton won the state with 51.9 percent, followed by Obama's 42.4 percent.

Modoc actually agreed with the rest of the state's voters on the Propositions. Modoc voted in favor of all the Indian Gaming compact issues, and against the other three.

The results were as follows: Prop. 91, transportation funds, Modoc 1,303 yes vote and 1,785 no votes (statewide it failed by 58.1 percent to 41.9 percent); Prop. 92 Community College funding, Modoc 2,144 no votes and 973 yes votes (statewide it failed 57.4 percent to 42.6 percent); Prop. 93, term limits, Modoc 1,785 no votes, 1,378 yes votes (statewide it failed 53.5 percent to 46.5 percent); Prop. 94, Pechanga Compact, Modoc 1,869 yes votes, 1,316 no votes (passed statewide by 55.8 percent); Prop. 95, Morongo compact, Modoc 1,872 yes votes, 1,305 no votes (passed statewide by 55.8 percent); Prop. 96, Sycuan Compact, Modoc 1,882 yes votes, 1,300 no votes (passed statewide by 55.7 percent); Prop. 97, Agua Caliente Compact, Modoc 1,876 yes votes, 1,302 no votes (passed statewide by 55.7 percent).

Modoc was in the top five for statewide voter turnout as 62.1 percent of eligible voters cast ballots. The remaining top five were Sierra County, 68 percent; Amador County, 66.1 percent; Glenn County 64.5 percent; and Sonoma 62.5 percent.

Slick roads an issue

Salvador Martinez, age 21, of California Pines was not hurt in a single vehicle accident Jan. 28, 5:15 p.m. on County Road 56 at the Desert Rose Casino.

The California Highway Patrol reports that Martinez was eastbound in a 1994 Ford Explorer at about 20 m.p.h. when he attempted to turn right into the Casino on a snow and ice covered road. He failed to make the turn, collided with a stop sign and ran into a fence on the southeast side of the road.
No injuries were reported in a single-vehicle accident Feb. 1, 4:55 a.m. north of Sagehen Summit on U.S. 395.

The CHP reports that Gilberto Martinez, age 28, Portland, was southbound in a 1999 Chevrolet at about 45 m.p.h. He fell asleep and lost control of the vehicle which ran off the east side of the road, over an embankment and struck a juniper tree. Martinez and two passengers were seatbelted and were not hurt.

Dan Morton, age 26, Alturas, sustained minor injuries when he lost control of his 1983 Chevy Blazer on U.S. 395 north of Likely.

According to the CHP, Morton was southbound on the ice-covered highway Feb. 2, 5:40 a.m. when he lost control and started to swerve. The vehicle left the road and overturned. He was wearing a seatbelt.

There were no injuries in a single-vehicle accident Feb. 3, 1:55 p.m. on U.S. 395 north of Ash Valley Road. The CHP reports that Alan Uchida, age 51, Alturas, was northbound in a 1984 Ford, with the road covered with ice and snow. The vehicle broke traction and went out of control because of speed. It left the road and rolled onto its top. Uchida was wearing a seatbelt, which is credited with preventing injury.

A pair of vehicles collided Feb. 2 at the Alturas Desert Rose Casino, County Road 56 intersection. The CHP reports that Thomas McDonald, age 53, Likely, was northbound on the Casino entrance road at about 25 m.p.h. Because of his speed, he was unable to stop at the posted sign and slid through the intersection, colliding with a 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass driven by Sarah Hewitt, age 21, Alturas.

McDonald was not hurt, but Hewitt and passenger Elizabeth Wiles, age 17, sustained minor injuries.
No injuries were reported in a two-vehicle accident Feb. 1, 9:35 p.m. on U.S. 395 south of Alturas. According to the CHP, Eduardo Reyes, age 27, Lakeview was southbound in a 1995 Pontiac at about 40 m.p.h. A 2007 Nissan driven by Kurt Klein, 19 Virginia Beach, Va., was following at a speed of above 40 m.p.h. on the ice and snow covered highway. He approached the Reyes vehicle and was unable to slow down, striking the vehicle from behind causing moderate damage to both cars.

Modoc snow pack well above average

There is plenty of snow in the mountains this winter, as major storms dumped on the area in January. This winter is in sharp contract to last year when the snow levels were about half of normal.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, Cedar Pass had 42.2 inches of snow on Jan. 31, containing 10.9 inches of water. That's 22 percent above the long-term average of 34.7 inches. Last year the area had 18 inches of snow at this time containing 5.9 inches of water. In 2006, Cedar Pass had 30.8 inches of snow containing 8.3 inches.

The SNOTEL (automated sensor operated by NRCS) measurement for Cedar Pass at 7100 feet elevation showed 59.5 inches of snow Feb. 4, containing 13.9 inches of water.

The Forest Service manual reading at Blue Lake had 35.2 inches of snow containing 9.4 inches of water Jan. 30. That's 41 percent higher than the long-term average of 25 inches of snow. Last year Blue Lake measured 11 inches of snow and 3.2 inches of water. In 2006, there was 30.8 inches of snow at the site.

Adin Mountain's Sweagert Flat snow survey showed 37.4 inches of snow containing 8.7 inches of water Jan. 28. The snow depth is 33 percent above the long-term average of 28.1 inches. Last year the area had 15.4 inches of snow with 4.4 inches of water and in 2006 here was 23.6 inches of snow.
The SNOTEL measurement on Adin Pass showed 57.8 inches of snow with 13.1 inches of water at 6,200 feet elevation on Feb. 4.

Bidwell Mountain's SNOTEL sensor had 80.4 inches of snow with 17.5 inches at 7,000 feet and Crowder Flat (5,100 feet) showed 29.5 inches of snow with 7.7 inches of water.

January precipitation amounted to 1.83 inches, above normal of 1.54 inches. The month was also cold, with 14 days never getting above freezing as a high and 14 days with lows at 10 degrees or below. Four days showed below zero low temperatures: Jan. 16 (-2); Jan. 17 (-1); Jan. 22 (-7); and Jan. 23 (-2).

The month of February has stayed wet and cold from he beginning. So far .31 inches of precipitation has been measured, above the .11 inches to date average. The normal for the month is 1.27 inches.
The snow over the weekend dropped between six and eight inches of snow in Alturas and more in the surrounding areas and foothills. Some yards in Alturas have more than 12 inches of snow accumulation and fields around the county are measuring drifts well over three feet.

According to eye-witness accounts, Jess Valley, east of Likely has four feet of snow and the hill units in California Pines have as much as six feet of snow. One family was snowed in for at least five days because of the snow in Cal Pines.

County snow plows doing best to keep up

Continuing heavy snows and high winds have pushed the Modoc County Road Department snowplowing efforts to the extreme. There are set priorities as to which roads get attention first.
A road department spokesperson explains that during these heavy snowfall events, the following snowplowing procedures are in effect.

"School bus routes and emergency vehicle routes are our first priority," he said. "During the last several days, due to the amount of snow we have received as well as the high winds, the first priority routes have received all of our attention, manpower, and equipment in an attempt to keep these roads passable. Our crews have been working around the clock, seven days a week to try and keep up. All secondary routes will be plowed as we get time to do them.

"We have received many complaints about piling snow into people's driveways," he continued. "Everyone's driveway is treated the same and it is up to the individual to clear his own driveway. The Road Department is prevented by state law from removing snow from private roads, lanes or driveways, however, we do make every effort to minimize this inconvenience."

He further explains that the Road Department receives no funding from the county general fund.
"Road Department funding is dependent upon the gas tax money you pay to the state when you fill up your tank," he said. "If the state diverts these gas tax funds, as they are proposing to do at this time, the Road Department will face a cash flow problem that will affect our snow plowing efforts. Your patience is appreciated."

Flu shots available free

The Modoc County Public Health Department has free flu shots available as influenza cases are up and more vaccine is available.

Residents are asked to call 233-6311 or 1-800-762-3003 to schedule an appointment. Business hours are 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Obituaries:

Marion 'Gene' Malson

Marion Eugene "Gene" Malson passed away February 3, 2008, at his home in Alturas, CA. Gene was born August 14, 1929 in Canby, CA at what was known as the Kelly Hot Springs Ranch. He was the first born to Dorothy (Vermillion) and Marvin Malson. Gene's parents divorced when he was 1-1/2 years old, leaving him and his younger brother Francis Lee "Guy" to be raised by his paternal grandparents, Tom and Clara Chambers. Gene attended Alturas schools, participated in Boys' State, band (played tenor sax), football and graduated from Modoc High School in 1947 with a scholarship to Annapolis. His grandmother felt the move to Annapolis was "too far from Modoc" so Gene traded the scholarship for enrollment at University of Nevada, Reno. His completion of college was terminated when Gene enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1948, serving onboard the USS St. Paul as Damage Control Officer. While in the Navy, Gene married his high school sweetheart, Betty Bayne. Their son David was born June 23, 1952. Upon discharge, Gene returned to Modoc County to manage the Bayne family ranch and livestock, and built his family's home. Gene and Betty were divorced in 1968.

Gene and Patti (Oliver Barsi Ash) were married July 10, 1970 at the Alturas Elks' Lodge. To that union, Gene's son David was joined by Patti's daughters Chris, Terri, Traci and Mari Jo. Gene loved camping with family, elaborately decorating the family home for the holidays and involving the entire family in building floats for community parades. During the 60s and 70s, Gene created theme-related costumes for the Alturas Firemen's Ball, enabling friends and family to win various competitions. Many a summer's eve Gene and friends could be found pitching horseshoes in the pits he created in the family's front yard. Gene loved Modoc County and encouraged family to do the same by participating in community activities. Gene taught not only his family, but dozens of others kids, and their parents, how to water-ski. Gene was instrumental in establishing the annual Fandango Days water festival, which included logrolling, boat racing and ski competition. He loved to pull family and friends in water pyramids and was extremely proud to have pulled seven skiers, at the same time, at Lake Britton.

Gene owned and operated First and Main Shell Service Station in Alturas for 14 years. He also was in partnership with Richard Schluter in the first harrow-bed, hay-hauling business in Alturas. After selling the station and ending the partnership, Gene worked for George Weigel in the diesel repair business. Eventually, Gene purchased George's business and Gene and David owned and operated G 'n D Truck 'n Tractor, the only diesel repair shop in Modoc at that time.

Gene was a former member of the Alturas Lions Club; Adjutant for the original American Legion Post #162; an extremely active participant in several bowling leagues until the close of Modoc Lanes; and retired fire chief of Alturas Rural Volunteer Fire Department. Gene annually challenged vegetables to grow in his backyard garden and loved taking family and friends on, in any card game. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, having shot his first deer on Devil's garden when he was 10-1/2 years old.

Elkdom was a very important part of Gene and Patti's life. Gene was a lifetime member of Alturas Lodge #1756, holding all the offices, several chairmanships and serving as Exalted Ruler three times: 1970-71, 1986-87 and 1987-88. Gene was the California State Vice President for Northeast District in 1972-73, and the recipient of the Elks Distinguished Citizenship Award several years and was voted Elk of the Year 1997-1998. Gene was proud of Elkdom, especially the scholarship program.
Gene is survived by his wife Patti of Alturas, CA; son David of Alturas; daughters and spouses: Chris and Doug Crist, Woodland, CA; Terri and Alejandro Gonzalez, Puebla, Puebla, Mexico; Traci and Buck Silva, Alturas; Mari Jo and Jim Owens, Ignacio, CO; his brother and spouse, Bill and Diane Vincent, Grants Pass, OR; mother Dot Whitby, Grants Pass, OR. Gene also leaves nine grandchildren (Francesco, Marcelino, Michelle, Sara, Bradley, Lindsey, Emerald, Amber and John) ad two great-granddaughters, Adriana and Hannah, all of whom will miss Gene's special talents of woodworking and his ability to created anything their minds could imagine. Gene was predeceased by his father Marvin Malson; his siblings Gale Stevenson, and Ron, Mae and Guy Malson.

Memorial service will be held Monday, February 11 at 10 a.m., officiated by Dr. Ben Zandstra, assisted by Elks' Memorial Officers, at the Federated Church in Alturas. A social hour will follow in the Fellowship Hall.

Memorial donations may be made to Elks' National Foundation Scholarship Fund, c/o BPOE#1756, 619 N. Main St., Alturas, CA 96101; Blue Lake Youth Camp c/o Federated Church, P.O. Box 1708, Alturas, CA 96101 or charity of choice.

Harry Allen Larimore

Eagleville born and long-time Alturas resident Harry Allen Larimore passed away at his Alturas home on January 28, 2008. Mr. Larimore was 86. Services are pending, with the family planning to hold a service this Spring.

Mr. Larimore was born July 28, 1921 in Eagleville, CA.

In addition to several children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and extended family, Mr. Larimore's immediate family members in Alturas include his wife Beatrice and daughter Jane. The Record will publish further information as it becomes available. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Patrick Henry Tignor

Patrick Henry Tignor, 87, former Vice Principal and teacher at Modoc High School for many years, passed away in his sleep at his home in Madras, Oregon, from complications of emphysema on January 16, 2008. He and his wife of 55 years, Wanda, had relocated to East Cascade Retirement Community in Madras, OR. Mr. Tignor was born April 10, 1920, in Hindman, Kentucky. He and Wanda Walker were married in Huntington, OR on January 26, 1951. They reared their two daughters in Alturas.

A graveside service will be held April 19, 2008, at 2:30 p.m. at the Alturas Cemetery. A fellowship gathering will follow at Alturas Baptist Church on Fourth Street, Alturas. Condolences may be sent to the Tignor Family at 165 N.E. 16th Street, Madras, OR. 97741. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Modoc County Senior Citizens Center, 906 West Fourth St., Alturas, CA 96101 or the Modoc Unit of the American Cancer Society, 402 East 4th Street, Alturas, CA 96101. Mr. Tignor's obituary will be published at a later date.

Gerald 'Jerry' Keller

Gerald "Jerry" Keller passed away in Alturas, CA on Friday, Feb. 1, 2008, after a courageous battle with cancer.  He was born in Lakeview, Oregon on Dec. 24, 1946 to Willard and Nola Keller as the youngest of five children. He grew up in several small towns in Oregon.

Jerry was employed by PG&E as a lineman for 40 years. He was in General Construction for about 15 years, working all over the north state. His later years were spent as a Troubleman, mainly in the Willows area. He enjoyed sports and the outdoors. He loved spending time with his family. 

He is survived by his wife, Doris Keller of Corning, CA; his daughter Cheryl, Mrs. Scott Stewart of Redding, CA. and daughter Sandra, Mrs. Brad Azevedo, of Chico, CA and grandchildren Kendall, Hayden and Sean. He is survived by brothers Willard (Bill) Keller of Bly, OR, Donald Keller of Alturas, CA, Leonard Keller of Portland, OR and sister Nola Nichols of Council, ID. 

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 9, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Longhorn Cafe in Bonanza, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Richard and Florence Hough

Richard and Florence Hough, long-time residents of Modoc County, passed away a day apart from one another in January 2008. Florence in Alturas, CA on January 26 and Richard in Redding, CA on January 28. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. February 9, 2008 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, Alturas. Following the service, family and friends will share a meal and fond memories together at the Strong Family Health Center, Alturas.

Richard was born on a dairy farm in Pennsylvania on January 2, 1925. After milking many cows, graduating from high school and spending a number of years overseas in the Army, he became acquainted through letters with a young woman from Arkansas named Nora Mae Crane. Even after learning that she could not walk due to an inherited disease, he still wanted to meet her. They met and were married in 1954. After their first child Mary was born in Pennsylvania, they moved to California where three more children- Sarah, Steve and John were born. Sadly, after only 11 years of marriage, Nora passed away September 25, 1965, due to complications of the disease.

Richard, while a single parent, met and dated a number of women, but he always asked the opinion of his children. One wanted to heat the milk for their Cheerios; that wouldn't do. Another had five children of her own, but on visits only allowed one of hers, her favorite to come in the house. That wasn't going to work either. But, on the first visit to Florence's, she had waiting, for four children who had been eating their father's cooking for five years - a pot roast with all the trimmings and six pies. On the way home, they told their father, "This is the one."

Florence Vetkos was born in Corning, CA on August 28, 1923. After picking much fruit in California orchards and graduating from high school in Klamath Falls, OR, she met and married Lemuel McBride in Reno, NV in 1941. They had two children Marlene and Robert. After Lem died in 1968, she married Richard Hough on October 17, 1970 in Redway, CA. Florence's two children were grown, so she took on the daunting task of raising four more - Mary, 15, Sarah, 13, Steve, 11 and John, 8.

So she became their mother. She loved to cook -- yeast breads from scratch, fudge, divinity, taffy, pies galore, and they loved to eat. She would sneak out of the house on winter evenings, hiding in the low fog in the trees. They would go looking for her and she loved scaring them to death out in those trees and they loved it, too. If a rare snow came, even on a school night, she would tell them to suit up and go walking with them in the dark, quiet snow. Through all this fun, she taught them important things - faith, discipline, hard work. For all this and much more, they loved her and always called her Mom.
After the children were grown and gone, Richard heard of a job working on a ranch in Modoc County. He had ranches and farmed in his younger years and loved it, so off they went in the summer of 1980. They worked and lived on a ranch in Lake City for many years. They loved those years on that ranch - Richard farming, raising chickens and growing a huge garden; Florence helping Richard with the garden, canning and freezing food all summer long, delivering milk to neighbors and cleaning house for many of them. Some of the fondest memories of all their grandchildren was to go see Grandma and Grandpa on the ranch. Snowball fights, playing in the barn, shearing sheep, feeding with Grandpa, eating tons and tons of Grandma's buffalo chip cookies. Then, as owners of the ranch came and went, they bought a little house in Cedarville. And still the visits of family and friends went on until many finally moved to Modoc too.

As the years and age took their toll, Richard and Florence sold their house and moved to Alturas. Having both worked until they were 78, they settled into town life and a much smaller garden. As their health began to decline, they took comfort in the faith they had acquired and built on over many decades. They believed in and talked about to others of their God Jehovah's promise that through His son, the meek would inherit the earth and that upon their death, they would rest in God's memory until the resurrection to life on earth. They looked forward to that life of perfect health, gardening, hiding in the trees, and walking in the snow.

All of their children are forever grateful to Richard for having been so unselfish in his choice of mates and to Florence for having been the very best of fun and loving mothers. Also to both of them for sharing their faith with them and their grandchildren. They are both deeply missed by so many. Mary, Sarah, Steve and John would especially like to thank Marlene for having so graciously shared her mother's love with them.

Richard is survived by his brother Donald, Altoona, PA; brother Lewis and wife Dorothy, Rebersburg, PA; sister Jennie Sloan and daughters Jennie and Susie of Brookville, PA; sister Annie Seals, Eureka, CA; and brother Frank, Crystal River, FL; Both parents, Raymond and Hazel preceded him in death, as did his sisters Susie, Helen and Irene and brother Nelson. Also one tiny son, Dennis, who died at age three months, many years ago.

Florence's parents, Frank and Lena and brothers and sisters, Kenneth, Pearl, Raymond, Phyllis and Ronald preceded her in death as did her son Robert in 1998.

Richard and Florence are survived by their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Daughter Mary Barry and husband Don of Alturas; grandchildren Israel, Uriah, and Rachel Wilder, Cassia and husband Cam Winkler, Jedidiah, Keturah and Amos Wilder, David Barry; and great-grandchildren Ethan, Kailee, Kalynne and Isaak Wilder; Daughter Sarah Channell and husband Mark of Alturas and grandchildren Cameron Channell and wife Melissa, Reece and Landis Channell. Son Steve Hough and wife Nicole of Pateros, WA; grandchildren Stevie, Andrew, Richard, Mikel, Kacy, Ami, Nikolis and Lia Hough; Son John Hough of Louisiana; daughter-in-law Robin Hough of Fairfield, CA and grandchildren Kyle, Victoria, Austin, Zachary and Olivia Hough. Daughter Marlene Whitney of Willits, CA; granddaughters Sandra Whitney, Tanya and husband Salvador Garcia, Jody Whitney; great-grandchildren Jeff Martin, Angelina Frost, Tykaila Orozco, Ana Whitney, Salvador Jr. and Maggie Garcia, and Darian Gavazza.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Warnerview Skilled Nursing Facility, 225 West McDowell Street, Alturas, CA 96101.

Marguerite L. Roy

Former Alturas resident Marguerite Louise Roy, 87, passed away June 11, 2007 in Newport, WA. Her family informed the Record this week, as many local residents will remember Marguerite for her work as a volunteer with Modoc Medical Center Auxiliary during the early 1980s and through her positions at Bank of America, Alturas Branch and Modoc National Forest as a receptionist and assistant.

Marguerite worked for well over 20 years as a main secretary for McDonnell Douglas Air Craft near Long Beach, CA, until she retired in 1978. She and her husband Joseph purchased and added onto their east side corner home at Carlos and West Streets, where she was meticulous about her garden and expansive lawns.

Born Marguerite Gateman on December 3, 1919, in Kitchner, Ontario, Canada, she graduated from high school in 1937. Marguerite will be remembered as a fun-loving, loyal and good friend, quick to share a laugh. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great and great-great grandmother. Her husband Joseph preceded her in death during their time in Alturas. She relocated to Newport, Washington in 1991, to be closer to family.

She is survived by her son Paul Richard Roy and wife Arden of Newport, WA; son David Allen Roy and wife Louise of Dorris, CA; daughter Debra Ann Roy of San Rafael. Grandchildren: Trishia, Gerri Bailey and husband Dana Bailey of Alturas, CA; David Roy, Jr. and wife Shawn or Dorris, CA; great-great grandchildren: Timothy Northrup, Dorris; Heather Bailey, Dorris; Megan and Jayson Sheldon, Tulelake; Amanda and Dean Hamilton, Alturas, Erica Bailey, Yreka; great-grandchildren Seth and Tristan Hamilton and Jayson and T. Jay Sheldon.

Services were held in Newport, WA June 14, 2007.

Sports

Girls, boys lose at Weed

Modoc's varsity girls' and varsity boys' basketball teams lost game at Weed Feb. 4.
The girls lost 53-46 after staying close for the first half. The Cougars led 17-16 in the first and 25-24 at halftime. The Braves tied the game at 38-38 after three, but Weed outscored the Braves 15-8 in the fourth.

Sarah Catania led the scoring with 16; Sami Schmidt added 14 and Emily Conner had 12.

On Tuesday, the girls lost to Burney 40-33. Burney got up 13-7 in the opening period and led 20-13 at halftime. Each team scored 20 second-half points. Schmidt led with 12 points, Conner added 10.

Modoc's boys lost to Weed in a lopsided game 60-37. The Braves trailed 13-7 in the first and 21-15 at the half. They played even in the third, but trailed 38-32 after three. Weed ran away with a 22-5 fourth period.

The Braves beat Burney Tuesday 45-26, jumping out to a 13-2 first period lead and leading by half 20-12. Modoc led 32-20 after three. Justin Estes led with 17 points, John Hughes added nine and Dee Hunsaker had eight.

Hornets have Homecoming Friday night

The Surprise Valley Hornets will celebrate Homecoming Friday night with games against Big Valley set to start at 4:30 p.m. with the junior varsity girls.

The Homecoming Queen will be crowned that evening with Gracie Cadenhead and Rachel Stevenson vying for the honor. The court also includes Shelby Anderson, junior princess, Lani Pulfer, sophomore princess and Lauren Soletti, freshman princess.

The Hornet boy's varsity will be coming off a 64-54 win over Dunsmuir Feb. 5. The Hornets led 10-9 in the first and 33-27 by halftime. Dunsmuir cut into the lead 45-44 after three. The Hornets made their free throws down the stretch for the win.

Chris Fenske led the scoring with 21; Geoffrey Washburn added 18; Kevin Quick had 10.

Schools scramble to make up games

Modoc High School is scrambling to make up basketball games, postponed by the series of heavy snow storms over the past two weeks.

In addition, the Shasta Cascade Wrestling Championships, scheduled last weekend have been postponed and rescheduled for this Friday and Saturday in Weed.
The Braves made up games this week and will have to piggyback some other games. Upcoming regularly scheduled games are at Etna, Feb. 8, with Fall River here Feb. 13 and Trinity here Feb. 15.

Middle school hosts hoop tourney

Modoc Middle School is hosting its annual boy's basketball tournament Feb. 8 and 9 at the Griswold Gym.

Teams participating in the A Division this year are Modoc, Lakeview, Surprise Valley, Burney, Big Valley and Fall River. The B Division has Surprise Valley, Big Valley, Burney, Fall River, Lakeview and two teams from Modoc.

Games will start at 9 a.m. Friday and run until 5 p.m. and then again at 9 a.m. Saturday though about 7 p.m.

February 14th, 2008

News

Local June 3 elections perking up

The interest in local elections for the June 3 Primary is perking up as more candidates are emerging.
The City of Alturas will have elections for City Clerk, and the City Council seats of John Schreiber, George Andreasen and Cheryl Nelson. City Clerk Cary Baker will run for re-election as will as Schreiber and Nelson. Andreasen has said he will not run. Alturas businessman Bobby Ray has taken out papers to run for City Council.

At the county level, Supervisors Mike Dunn, Patricia Cantrall and Shorty Crabtree will all seek re-election. As of today, two people have taken out papers to runs against Dunn: Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock and long time resident Bob Clark.

Cantrall is facing a challenge from Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley. No one has yet taken out papers to run against Crabtree.

The filing period began officially on Feb. 11 and runs through March 7. If an incumbent doesn't run, the nomination period is extended by five days.

Several other local elections are set for the November General election. Three seats will open on the Modoc Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees -- Alan Hopkins, John Fogerty and Fernand Larranaga.

The seats of Bill Bostic and Bob Staton will be up for re-election on the Surprise Valley Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees and the seats of Tom Macy and Jerry LeQuieu will come up in the Tulelake Basin Joint Unified School District.

The County Board of Education seats of Jim Hayts and Bucky Harris will also be up in November.

Haralson murder hearing in process

A three-day preliminary hearing for Robert Chad Haralson, age 32, the suspect in the 1992 murder of Betty Lou Parks, started yesterday and runs through today and tomorrow in Modoc Superior Court.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested Haralson May 25 in Casper, Wyoming. Modoc had issued an arrest warrant in late April for Haralson after the initial suspect in the case, Christopher Bradbury, accepted a plea bargain and identified him as the person who killed Parks.

As a part of the plea deal, the murder charge was dropped, and Bradbury pled guilty to an accessory after the fact charge. Bradbury must identify and testify against Haralson.

Parks, who had just graduated from Modoc Middle School, was reported missing in June 1992 and her remains were found by a hiker at a remote location in Modoc Estates in May 1993.

The case languished for more than a decade in the Modoc County Sheriff's Office before finally being turned over to the Department of Justice cold case investigator. That investigation led to the arrest of Bradbury in Shasta County.

Haralson, who was 17 and an Alturas resident at the time of the crime, has entered a not guilty plea. John Webster of Redding, who was appointed by the court, is representing him.

Modoc County District Attorney is planning to present new witnesses in the case.

Strong winds topple UPS Van

Winds estimated at about 97 m.p.h. were cited as the cause of a UPS Van accident Feb. 7, 10:30 a.m. on County Road One, south of County Road 33 near Eagleville.

According to the California Highway Patrol, Ernie Givan, age 41, was southbound on CR1 at about 55 m.p.h. when a large gust of wind hit the 2006 Dodge Van broadside and caused the vehicle to left up and turn over. Givan was wearing his seatbelt with prevented more serious injuries. He was treated at Surprise Valley Hospital. The van had substantial damage.

BLM field offices announce seasonal firewood cutting closures

Firewood cutting on public land managed by the U. S. Bureau of Land Management in northeast California area is closed due to winter conditions. All permits, including those issued in recent weeks, are suspended.

The seasonal wood cutting closures are in effect for lands managed by the Alturas, Eagle Lake (Susanville) and Surprise field offices.

BLM officials said that deep snow prevents access to cutting areas in high elevations, while mud is a problem in lower elevation areas.

BLM field offices will announce resumption of permit sales and authorize wood cutting when conditions improve this spring.

County building remains slow

Modoc County's Building Department issued eight permits in January, worth an estimated $420,211. That's close to December when eight permits with an estimated value of $368,001 were issued.
And that wasn't much different than the nine permits issued in November, worth an estimated $416,215.

For January, one new office structure, an ag shop, two manufactured homes and a parking garage made up the majority of the value.

The recent permits are down substantially from October when 25 permits were issued by the building department, worth an estimated $574,726. September building activity in Modoc had dropped a little from August's 29 permits worth an estimated $1,069,022, to 24 permits worth an estimated $986,475.

The City of Alturas issued just four permits in January, worth $103,165. One new building made up most of that total. That was up from December when six permits worth $23,626 were issued. In November the City had 19 permits valued at $224,114.

Obituaries:

Charles Milton Shelton

Alturas resident Charles Milton Shelton, known as "Charlie" to his friends, passed away Saturday, February 9, 2008 at the age of 77, at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA.

Born November 15, 1930 in Colfax County, Raton, New Mexico, Charles was such a bright and intelligent child that he skipped several grades. When he was 17, he graduated in 1947 from Arizona State College. He served as a Private First Class with the U.S. Army from 1950-1956. Upon his discharge he returned to earn his Bachelor of Science degree from Arizona State in Flagstaff, AZ in 1958.

Mr. Shelton worked as an accountant in San Francisco's Financial District. He also was a Merchant Marine who worked as a deck hand on San Francisco Ferries in the Golden Gate for 15 years.
In 1993, he relocated to Alturas, where he loved playing golf, fishing and became a member of the Alturas Elks Lodge. He leaves many friends.

He is survived by his sister Shirley Cricchio of San Jose, CA and Donald Shelton, Miami, AZ; four nieces and three nephews.

To comply with his wishes, no formal services will be held. Arrangements under the direction of Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Harold Lloyd Hall

Harold Lloyd Hall of Likely, CA passed away on February 4, 2008, at 4:20 p.m. in Redding, CA at Regional Rehabilitation, where he accepted Salvation, with family by his side. He was 72. Lloyd and Melvena have resided at their Likely home for the last 42 years.

Born Harold Lloyd Hall in Westmoreland, CA on November 23, 1935, to Preston Harold Hall and Mary Inez (Mansker) Hall, he was known as Lloyd to all his friends. He loved people. After high school, he was stationed with the U.S. Army in Germany and was highly regarded as a top driver for generals and dignitaries while in the service of his country from 1956 until 1959. Upon his discharge, Lloyd met his true love Melvena Ruth Lovelace of Yreka, while they both attended the church where his father was a minister. He "gently wooed, but firmly pursued" his young love until they were married May 5, 1959 in Red Bluff, CA, described Melvena.

"We had a wonderful life," said Melvena, who is also known as "Bobbe." Lloyd was never without work. He worked for Robinson Timber in Grass Valley, CA for several years as a logging truck driver, heavy equipment hauler and drove special loads for the large company. During the summers and weekends, he and his family would pack in as much fun as possible, gold dredging, camping and having fun. The company wanted him to stay, but Lloyd had visited Jess Valley and wanted to move there. Lloyd worked as a foreman at the Likely Peat Moss plant, and at Oak Meadows for 20 years. Among his varied responsibilities, he was also a good mechanic and worked at keeping all the vehicles and equipment operating. He worked for Likely Land and Cattle for 10 years and also constructed Likely Links Golf Course.

"They believed Lloyd could fix anything, and he was responsible for building a lot during his lifetime. He could do or figure out anything," describes Melvena.

Lloyd enjoyed frequenting the Desert Rose Casino with friends. "He really loved the people there," said Melvena.

He knew all of Modoc County like the back of his hand as he loved hunting and fishing every year with friends and family. He loved camping and big family gatherings.

Lloyd will be greatly missed by his wife of 50 years; his eldest son Rick Lloyd Hall of Phoenix, AZ; his daughter Rhonda Lynn Atkins, Canby, CA and his youngest son Terry Lee Hall of Alturas, CA. Lloyd had five granddaughters: Elizabeth Lucille Hall, Tessa Leanne Atkins, Rochelle Ruth Hall, Alizza Anne Atkins and Katelynn Ruth Hall; two grandsons Brandon Lee Atkins and T.J. Hall. Lloyd has two brothers Gerald Lee Hall, Corning, CA and James Preston Hall of Wheatland, CA; sister Janie Mae Roper of Oroville, CA; three nieces and four nephews: Tamara, Patty and Debbie, Scott Hall, Kevin Rikard, Eric Rickard and Jr. Hall.

Private interment will be at Likely Cemetery. A memorial service is pending and will be held in Likely. Condolences and memorial contributions may be sent to Melvena Hall, P.O. Box 493, Likely, CA 96116. Arrangements are under the direction of Kerr Mortuary.

Robert ‘Bob' Schwyhart

Robert (Bob) William Schwyhart passed away February 6, 2008, at his home in Red Bluff, CA. Funeral services were held Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 1 p.m. at the Tehama District Fairgrounds in Red Bluff. Graveside services will be held Thursday, Feb. 14 at 1 p.m. at the Alturas Cemetery in Alturas, CA.

Bob was born January 20, 1951, in Alturas, California. He spent his childhood and teen years living in Cedarville, CA. He graduated from Surprise Valley High School in 1969. During the summers, when he was in high school, he worked with his dad at the fairgrounds in Cedarville. In August 1969, Bob joined the Marines. He served in Vietnam Vet from 1969 until 1971, when he was honorably discharged as an E3 Lance Corporal. During his military career he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/1 star, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with device Rifle Sharp Shooter Badge. When Bob returned from his military services, he worked at the Laxague Saw Mill in Cedarville until December 1972, when he went to work for the Johnny Hussa Ranch. Bob married the love of his life and best friend Daisy Lloyd of Alturas on May 5, 1972, in Alturas, CA. They have one son, Bobby Schwyhart who resides in Caldwell, Idaho. Bobby is married to Jolene and they have two daughters, Dakota and Nikki, and two sons, Nicholas and Joey. Bob and Daisy have one daughter, Shawna Schwyhart who resides in Santa Cruz, CA. In 1973, Bob left the Johnny Hussa Ranch. He moved his family to Yreka, CA, where he worked as the Junior Maintenance Man for the 10th District Ag Association from 1973 until 1980. In October 1980, Bob took the position of Senior Maintenance person for the 30th District Ag Association in Red Bluff, CA. where he worked until January 2006 when he retired. Bob will be remembered in great admiration for the hard work and commitment he made to the 30th District Ag Association and the many friends he made there throughout the years.

Bob was predeceased in death by his father Issac William Schwyhart, mother Betty Ann Schwyhart, and brother Dale Walter Schwyhart. He is survived by his wife Daisy of Red Bluff, son Bobby and wife Jolene of Caldwell, Idaho; daughter Shawna of Santa Cruz, CA; granddaughters Dakota and Nikki, and grandsons Nicholas and Joey of Caldwell Idaho.

Robert Ray Bender

Robert Ray Bender was born June 24, 1966, in Parker, Arizona and Entered into Rest January 26, 2008 in Parker, AZ, due to complications of pneumonia. He was buried February 2, 2008 at Parker Colorado River Indian Tribal Cemetery.

A member of the Mojave and Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, Robert had 12 brothers and sisters, three who preceded him in death. Robert lived in Ft. Bidwell for 16 years with his long-time companion Neasha Comanche until she passed away. He then returned to Arizona, where he lived. While living in Ft. Bidwell, Robert was employed at Surprise Valley Community Hospital as a housekeeper and a Certified Nurses Aide for many years. He was also a great basketball player who would be at all the tournaments in the area. That was Robert's greatest hobby.

After hearing of his passing, a group of close friends and relatives traveled to Parker, AZ to attend his funeral. Robert has many friends and relatives who will miss him dearly. He leaves behind a son Christopher Bender and granddaughter Jasmine, who reside in Arizona; daughter LeeAnn Comanche and grandchildren Selynn and Lendrick Polite of Oberlin, Louisiana. Cards and letters of condolence may be sent to Christopher Bender, P.O. Box 2232, Poston, AZ 85371

Sports

Modoc powers way to 9th straight SCL wrestling title

While Modoc head wrestling coach Shaun Wood felt the team's ninth straight Shasta Cascade League wrestling title could be in question this year, the Braves had other thoughts.

Modoc put 13 wrestlers, out of a possible 14 divisions, in the finals during last weekend's SCL championships, pinning the title with 253.5 points, miles ahead of Trinity's 160.5 and Mt. Shasta's 153.5. The remaining teams scored as follows: Big Valley 81.5; Modoc JV 46; Etna 36; Weed 35; Burney 32.5; Trinity JV 27; Fall River 22.5; Tulelake 14 and Mount Shasta JV 10.

"We did very well and we had some kids get into the finals that really pushed us over the top," Wood said. "I was very pleased with our performance."
Modoc had six individual league champions: Josh Wood won at 215 pounds; Jacob Ketler won at heavyweight; David Holloway won at 160 pounds; Kyle Hartman won at 152 pounds; Victor Garcia won at 125 pounds; and Cody Book won at 103 pounds.

Placing second for the Braves were: David Potter, 112 pounds; Kevin Richardson at 119 pounds; Kyle Voth at 130 pounds; Josue Madrigal at 135 pounds; Trey Wright at 145 pounds; Tyler Wood at 171 pounds; and Tyler Stains at 189 pounds.

Alex Moreo took a third at 103 pounds, while Gustavo Chavez was third at 125 pounds; Kevin Jones third at 152 pounds; and Miguel Torres third at 215 pounds. Tim Holloway was fifth at 130 pounds; Webb Dunn was fifth at 140 pounds; and Aurora Hall was fifth at 145 pounds.

The top four wrestlers qualified for the Division III Championships this weekend in Portola, but Modoc is allowed only one wrestler per weight division. That means Modoc will take 13 wrestlers to the event.

Coach Wood said the team competition will be between Modoc, Trinity, Willows and Durham and he said the results should be close. Modoc will go into the event as the top seed.

In the dual meets at the league finals, Modoc beat Trinity 54-24 and Mt. Shasta 61-18.

Modoc boys, girls split in action

Modoc boys and girls varsity teams split Shasta Cascade League basketball contests this week.

The boys beat Mt. Shasta 42-29 after trailing 25-18 at halftime. The Braves outscored the Bears 24-14 in the second half. Justin Estes led the scoring with 17, while Dee Hunsaker and Trent Schmidt added 10 each.

The Braves couldn't keep pace with the Etna Lions, losing 78-56. Modoc led 18-17 in the first, but the Lions took over in the second leading 37-31 by half. Etna led 53-46 after three, but outscored Modoc 25-10 in the fourth period. Estes led with 15; Schmidt added 14 and Hunsaker had 10.

The Braves lost to Trinity Monday night 60-42 after taking a 15-13 first period lead. The Wolves took a 33-27 lead at the half and pushed that to a 47-35 lead after three. Trinity outscored Modoc 13-7 in the fourth.

Estes scored 12 points; Daniel Morgan and Dee Hunsaker each scored nine.
The boys are now 13-8 overall and 6-4 in Shasta Cascade League play and should make the playoffs.

Modoc's girls won a thriller in overtime against Mt. Shasta, beating them 41-38. The win was tough, as Modoc led 14-8 in the first, and 23-17 at halftime. The Bears cut into the lead 31-28 after three and tied the game at 35-35 in the fourth. Both teams scored three in the first overtime period to leave the game knotted at 38, but Modoc put up three to the Bears' none in the second overtime for the win.

Sarah Catania led the Braves with 13 points and Emily Conner added 12.
Modoc lost to Burney 40-33. The Raiders took a 13-7 first period lead and built that to a 20-13 halftime advantage. Each team scored 20 points in the second half. Sami Schmidt led the scoring with 12 and Conner added 10.

Modoc's girls lost a game to Trinity 56-49 Monday. Modoc led 11-8 in the first but Trinity took a 25-22 halftime lead and led 42-35 after three. Each team scored 14 in the fourth. Conner led the scoring with 18, Catania added 16 for Modoc.

Modoc's girls are now 6-14 overall and 4-6 in SCL play and may not make the playoffs.

The Braves played Fall River after presstime Wednesday and finish the regular season hosting Trinity Friday night.

February 21, 2008

News

Haralson will face murder trial

Robert Chad Haralson will be put on trial for the murder of Betty Lou Parks.

That was the decision of Modoc Superior Court Judge Francis W. Barclay last week after three days of compelling courtroom testimony and evidence presentation in a pre-trial hearing held in Alturas Feb. 13-15. The hearing was held to determine whether or not to try Haralson for the crime.

"I do find that there has been sufficient evidence and testimony to establish probable cause," said Barclay, ruling immediately and without hesitation after the last of the witnesses testified on Friday.
In a case with all the twists and turns of a television drama, Gary Woolverton, Modoc County District Attorney presented evidence and questioned numerous witnesses in the baffling, 15-year-old murder case. John Webster represented Haralson, occasionally objecting to the prosecutor's questions and asking his own questions of each of the witnesses.

Called "Rob" by all of the witnesses, festooned with tattoos on his head, neck and arms and wearing glasses, Haralson sat impassively during the entire hearing in his orange prison jumpsuit.

Furthermore, he showed no emotion when Barclay announced his decision to hold Haralson for trial.
Parks, a 14-year-old Alturas girl, went missing the summer of 1992 after a swimming outing with friends in the Pit River at Fitch's Bridge on Highway 395 north and east of town. Several witnesses testified as to Parks' movements that day, including a girlfriend and a neighbor.
She was not found until almost a year later, in May of 1993.

Her remains, later identified by DNA tests, were discovered in an area adjacent to the Modoc Estates near a dilapidated mobile home where trash and junk had been dumped. A passerby walking her dog discovered a decomposed human skull when she investigated to see what caused the dog to become agitated and begin barking.

Former county sheriff Bruce Mix testified that when he and his deputies were called to the scene, they found the skull "with a slight amount of flesh" lying about four feet from "a piece of particleboard." When they moved the particleboard, they found a nearly complete human skeleton, with the bones generally arranged "where they should be."

They subsequently recovered the bones together with a black bra, cutoff pants, and "a large amount of human hair." Parks' neighbor, Sharry Morava, testified that the bra and pants were those she had loaned to Parks the day she went missing. Park's mother, Bonnie Dukes, identified the hair recovered at the scene as that of her daughter.

Scientific evidence as to the cause of death was submitted by way of testimony from Dr. Joseph Tripoli, a forensic pathologist, who performed the autopsy. Saying that there were at least two blows to the head, one to the back of the head and one to the right forehead, Dr. Tripoli admitted in cross examination that "it's difficult for me to say how many impacts" were administered.

He nevertheless identified the fatal blow as the one to the temporal region of the forehead, just behind and above the right eye, saying that the individual would have been completely incapacitated by such a blow. The doctor pointed to another "depression" on the opposite side of the skull as a "contra coup" injury, possibly sustained as a result of the primary blow to the temple. He identified the murder weapon as "a blunt object."

Dr. Turhon Murad, a physical anthropologist who is often called to assist in the identification of remains, emphatically declared that his examination of the skull revealed that the individual died as the result of "blunt force to the head." While DNA evidence had not yet been obtained at that time, he was able to identify the individual as an adolescent female.

"I thought the person may have been hit rather dramatically on the right side," said Dr. Murad, adding that the murder weapon could have been "anything that was sufficiently heavy with a broad surface."

Under oath, Mix testified that he kept the cause of death to himself in order to aid in the investigation. Only the murderer or a witness would be likely to know the exact cause of death. So, he withheld that information from the public in order to validate testimony and eliminate suspects.

Crucial and graphic evidence supporting the forensics conclusions came in the form of a videotaped interview with Christopher Bradbury, who is the alleged witness to the murder. Played for the court, the videotape showed Bradbury at the site where the murder allegedly took place. He described in detail the events which led to Parks' demise that day for the investigator, who held the video camera.
Significantly, Bradbury's description of Haralson's actions toward Parks that day seems to mirror the conclusions of the pathologist and the anthropologist.

Bradbury told how an argument erupted between Haralson and Parks when she would not submit to him, and he subsequently tore her shirt in a scuffle. "Rob wanted to date her," said Bradbury of Parks.

Feeling sympathy for her, Bradbury claimed to have then taken off his own shirt to give it to the girl.
After Parks spurned Haralson's overtures, she turned and walked away from the two boys, toward the pickup truck they arrived in, which was parked near the abandoned trailer. Haralson paused momentarily before starting up the trail after her. "I thought he was going to apologize to her for tearing her shirt," said Bradbury.

According to Bradbury, Haralson next picked up a rock and cocked his arm. "I seen Rob throw a rock and hit her in the back of the head," said Bradbury.

Stunned, the petite teenager began screaming as she ran toward the trailer. "She was screaming in fear and pain, I believe," Bradbury said. "I can't really believe what's happening."

Parks next rounded the corner of the trailer, with Haralson in hot pursuit. Both were out of Bradbury's sight for a few moments, and he heard no more screaming.

When he rounded the corner, Bradbury alleged that Parks was on the ground and Haralson was "stomping on her head . . . stomping hard." He testified that Haralson then picked up a "basketball-sized rock and smashed it down."

Bradbury testified about Parks' injuries in gruesome detail, but his recollection of events after that is "fuzzy." He recalled seeing Parks' body dragged to the spot and covered by "plywood," where it was later found.

He told that he feared Haralson might do the same to him, that Haralson told him to say nothing of the incident and that he was equally guilty. "I very rarely saw Rob after that," Bradbury said.
Bradbury claimed that by testifying, "the only thing I gain is a little peace of mind."

Two inmates who once shared a prison cell with Haralson at different times also presented key testimony. Both Burt "Demon" Lewis and Scott "Speedy" Williams testified that Haralson claimed to have murdered a woman in order to qualify for membership in a prison gang called the Nazi Low Riders. When they later learned Parks' young age, they both agreed to testify against him. "We don't believe in crimes against kids," said Lewis. "A little girl was killed . . . It bothered me a lot."
Details in the testimony of both criminals tended to corroborate the Bradbury account, particularly the details of the cause of death, which Mix had withheld from public knowledge.

Haralson pled "not guilty" to both counts against him after Judge Barclay's decision. The trial is set to begin in mid-March.

Supervisor seats will be contested in June

All races for Modoc County Supervisor in the June 3 Primary Election will be contested.

Supervisors Mike Dunn, Patricia Cantrall and Shorty Crabtree are seeking re-election. Two people have taken out papers to runs against Dunn: Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock and long time resident Bob Clark.

Cantrall will face a challenge from Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley.

New this week are challengers to District Four's Crabtree. Two people have taken out papers for that seat: Ron McCullough and Jim Wills.

The filing period is open through March 7.

Also on the June Primary Ballot will be the Alturas City Council seats of John Schreiber, Cheryl Nelson and George Andreasen. Nelson and Schreiber will run for another term, but Andreasen said he will bow out. As of today, one person has taken out papers for City Council, Alturas businessman Bobby Ray.

Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker is also seeking re-election to her position.

The nomination period runs through March 7 normally, but if Andreasen does not file, the council period will be extended for five days.

Newell area hit by gang violence

While Modoc County has been relatively immune from gang activity, District Attorney Gary Woolverton and Sheriff Mark Gentry said that calm came to a sudden end in October and December in Newell.

According to Woolverton, there are currently two separate and distinct gang prosecutions ongoing in Modoc Superior Court involving two separate gangs and several individuals.

Woolverton said the first gang-related crime occurred Oct. 6 when five members of a gang called the Nortenos attacked a rival gang known as Surenos.

That attack apparently sparked retaliation by the Surenos, who attacked the Nortenos in Newell on Dec. 16. While both attacks included firearms, the Dec. 16 attack is considered the more serious of the two since shots were fired into an occupied residence.

Both cases have had some twists and turns along the way.

"The Oct. 6 crime is complicated," said Woolverton. "Apparently in late September or early October there was a gang fight between the two rival gangs in Merrill, Or. It is not known whether the attacks by the Nortenos against the Surenos was in retaliation, but the victims mentioned the Merrill, Or. fight when they were interviewed. That attack involved five individuals, four of whom were adults and one a juvenile. The names of the four adults were Victor Chavolla, Ricardo Chavolla, Alejandro Perez and Luis Valerio."

All five of the suspects were arrested, and a preliminary hearing was held Oct. 31. Each of the gang members was bound over on assault with a deadly weapon and other charges.

Woolverton said at the preliminary hearing a gang expert was not available, so his office was unable to establish gang enhancements or gang type crimes. Therefore, on Jan. 29, he dismissed that series of cases and refiled the complaint including the gang-related enhancements. That case went to preliminary hearing on Feb. 6 with gang experts available. Before the hearing started, the defendants asked for a recess and following consultation, asked Woolverton to consider a plea agreement.
He agreed, with approval of Sheriff's Deputy William Engel, the lead investigator, and Sheriff Mark Gentry, to a plea that would have them plead guilty to felony assault with a deadly weapon, that they be placed on five years probation, that the probation include standard gang provisions, such as not being a member of a gang, nor associated with a known or reputed gang member, no colored gang attire, no gang paraphernalia, not being on the grounds of any school unless enrolled or with prior administrative approval, not frequent areas of gang activity, or be in possession of a paging device or scanner.

Four of the defendants entered no contest pleas to the felony assault with a deadly weapon and the fifth defendant will enter a plea at a future date. Sentencing on the plea agreements is set for April 1.
According to the DA, on Dec. 16, five suspected members of the Surenos gang - Jonathan Gomez, Josue Gomez, Temoc Azamar, Ulisses Garcia Perez and Jose Luis Garcia Perez - are alleged to have fired several shots into an inhabited Newell residence and were charged with attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, shooting into an inhabited dwelling, gang crimes and gang enhancements.

A preliminary hearing was set for Jan. 30, with only one gang expert called to testify. That expert became extremely ill the morning of the hearing. Woolverton said the gang expert was unable to testify and all the defendants were still in custody. He said that presented him with a legal problem.
"Under California law, absent waivers by the defendants, a preliminary hearing must take place in one session," he said. "Therefore it was not possible to put on part of the hearing and then continue it to a future date for the testimony of the gang expert. Additionally, California law requires in custody defendants to have their preliminary hearing within the 10-day period. The judge must dismiss the charges against the defendants if the hearing cannot be held within 10 days of their arraignment."
Woolverton said he opted to release the defendants from custody on their own recognizance rather than have the judge dismiss the case. That decision caused some concern in the community. A new hearing was scheduled for Feb. 20 and two gang experts were to testify.

Sheriff Gentry, investigating Deputies Engel and Dirk Williams felt releasing the defendants on their own recognizance "made more sense than starting the case all over." The OR release contains some strict gang-related conditions and strict stay-away orders.

Woolverton said law enforcement has done a thorough job on the Dec. 16 case and his office is prepared to proceed with the prosecution. He declined to state the probable range of punishment, but said the case is considered more serious than the one resolved through plea bargain on Feb. 6.

No layoffs in MJUSD picture as budget tightens

The Modoc Joint Unified School District is blessed with healthy reserve, and Superintendent Lane Bates said he and the Board of Trustees made the decision to dip into that reserve this year to avoid any employee layoffs.

"We are not looking at any reduction in force for the coming year," said Bates Tuesday. "We believe we can cover the costs for the next year and in the short term ride out this budget crisis."
Bates is well aware that the district went about $380,000 into deficit spending last year and can't continue to absorbing those types of costs on a year-to-year basis.

Bates said the District has nearly $630,000 remaining from last year's allocation of Secure Schools funding (formerly Forest Reserves) and is treating those funds as one-time monies. There remains a big question mark as to whether the Secure Schools fund will be approved at the federal level this year, and in what form.

What would the allocation of those funds ($730,000) mean to the District? According to Bates, it would mean going from the deficit spending situation to a positive financial period and lessening the impact on the reserves.

In addition, the current state budget crisis will have an impact on the local schools, but just what the actual numbers will be remains in the projected impact realm.

Bates said it's his and the Board's desire to keep communication lines open within the district and community and to operate above board. It's pretty common knowledge that the state and federal budget cuts are going to have an impact on the district, but reassuring the staff that their jobs aren't in jeopardy is vital, Bates said.

Bates, who took over the reigns of the district last fall, said he is blessed with an excellent adminsitrative team, quality staff and a Board, which is involved and interested to solutions. He believes in coordinated problem solving, using more of a team effort and not the "top-down" philosophy often practiced.

"When we have a problem, we put the issue on the table and discuss possible solutions," Bates said. "We problem solve together and we leave the table with a plan. We work as a team, we have good people who care about the education of our students."

He said the District has to address the state accountability standards, but its goal is to educate the whole student and maintain the education programs needed. Two areas the District will address for the next school year are the science and math programs at Modoc Middle School and Modoc High School.

On a positive note, Bates said the declining student population trends may have reversed or at least leveled out. The Average Daily Attendance for the District in 2006 was 867 students and as of the first report for this year it is up to 878. That's up for the first time in the past four years. In 2003-04 the ADA stood at 938. In the not-too-distant pass the District had over 1,100 students.

Bates said the upward trend is bolstered by larger student populations this year in the Kindergarten and first grade classes. An increase in ADA translates directly into more funding from the state.
"I'm learning and this has been an eye-opener," Bate said. "It's been a challenge, but I like new challenges and I think things are going well. The morale in the district is good and we will address issues openly. I believe I'm a good listener, and I value the staff's input."

There are a variety of issues that will come to the forefront over the year, the budget probably taking center stage. Bates knows there will be some bumps in the road, but expresses solid confidence in the people who work in education at the district and county levels.

APD investigating several crimes

The Alturas Police Department is investigating three violent cases that occurred last week.
On the evening of Feb. 15, two or three people jumped Gary Smith behind Quizno's Sandwich shop on Main Street. Smith sustained a serious concussion and had to be airlifted out of the county for treatment. Police are searching for at least one of the attackers, who has been identified, alleging assault and battery.

Police are also searched for Ronald Lindsey, Jr. alleging spousal abuse, false imprisonment and assault with the intent to cause great bodily harm. The incident happened over a four-day period but was reported Feb. 16 according to Police. The victim was flown out and was hospitalized for three days. Lindsey has not been apprehended.

Police are also investigating serious injuries to Richie Chapman. He was discovered at the Charles Redding residence in Alturas and was flown out for treatment. No charges have been filed and the case remains under investigation.

Obituaries:

Dorothy Feldhake

Former Alturas resident Dorothy Marie Feldhake, age 97, passed away at Mercy San Juan Hospital in Carmichael, CA, Jan. 9, 2008.  She was born June 26, 1910, in Columbus, Ohio, to John W. and Olivia Jacobs Vernon. 

She lived in Concord, CA, from 1940 to 1968, in Paradise from 1968 to 1996, then resided with family in Concord, San Jose, Central Point, OR, Alturas, CA, (with niece Jo Harder) and Fair Oaks, before moving to Carmichael.  She was a member of the Holy Family Church of San Jose and St. Thomas More Church of Paradise, where she was housekeeper for eight years.  She also attended Shepherd of the Valley Church in Central Point and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Alturas. 
An active supporter of Veterans, she belonged to several auxiliary groups, and the GPO chapter of NARFE.  Starting as a nurse's aide in the 1940s, Dorothy later became an LVN.  After retirement she worked in nursing homes in Paradise and also volunteered on behalf of nursing home residents.  Her family was her greatest priority.  She enjoyed reading, crafts, and traveling.

Dorothy will be missed by her loving children, Byron Feldhake of Concord, William Feldhake of Oregon, Mary Cosme of Fair Oaks, eight grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bill, and brother John. The funeral liturgy was celebrated Jan.16, at St. Agnes Church in Concord, with burial following at St. Stephen's Cemetery.  Her loving heart and generous ways will always be remembered by her family.

Friday service for 'Lloyd' Hall

Harold Lloyd Hall of Likely, CA will be laid to rest at the Likely Cemetery on Friday, February 22 at 3:45 p.m. Pastor Destry Campbell will conduct the graveside service with family and friends welcome. A potluck gathering will follow at the Likely Fire Hall, where all who knew Mr. Hall are welcome to bring a favorite dish to share.

Mr. Hall passed away on February 4, 2008, in Redding, CA. He was 72. He was a 42-year resident of Likely.

Lloyd will be greatly missed by his wife Melvena of 50 years; his eldest son Rick Lloyd Hall of Phoenix, AZ; his daughter Rhonda Lynn Atkins, Canby, CA and his youngest son Terry Lee Hall of Alturas, CA; five granddaughters: Elizabeth Lucille Hall, Tessa Leanne Atkins, Rochelle Ruth Hall, Alizza Anne Atkins and Katelynn Ruth Hall; two grandsons Brandon Lee Atkins and T.J. Hall; two brothers Gerald Lee Hall, Corning, CA and James Preston Hall of Wheatland, CA; sister Janie Mae Roper of Oroville, CA; three nieces and four nephews: Tamara, Patty and Debbie, Scott Hall, Kevin Rikard, Eric Rickard and Jr. Hall. Condolences and memorial contributions may be sent to Melvena Hall, P.O. Box 493, Likely, CA 96116. Arrangements are under the direction of Kerr Mortuary.

Sports

Braves win Small School wrestling title

Modoc's wrestling team just keeps filling up the trophy case.

The Braves won their second consecutive North Section Small Schools title in Portola last weekend with 207 points, well ahead of Willows with 162 and Trinity 131, Durham 134, Chester 108, Mt. Shasta 94, Quincy 79, Hamilton City 69, Esparto 64, Los Molinos 61, Portola 48, Burney 34, Biggs 32, Bishop Quinn 27, Etna 25, Big Valley 23, Weed 22, Fall River 20, Tulelake 4, Redding Christian and Westwood 0.

The top four placers at small schools qualify for the North Section Masters Tournament this Thursday and Friday in Redding. The top two there qualify for the State Championships in Bakersfield Feb. 29-March 1.

"I though it might be a little closer, but we put 11 guys in the semi-finals and had five in the finals," said coach Shaun Wood. "That sealed it for us. And the team really wrestled well. We had 12 guys place 6th or better."

Modoc's 215 pounder, Josh Wood, goes into the Master as the number one seed and is Modoc's best chance at making the state finals. Heavyweight Jacob Ketler also has a very good chance to advance to state.

At the Small Schools Final, Wood had no trouble winning the 215-pound category. Ketler took a second, but will probably get to see that wrestler again at the Masters.

Josue Madrigal won the title at 135 pounds for Modoc.

Kevin Richardson took a second at 119 pounds and Kyle Hartman was second at 152. Kyle Voth placed third at 130 pounds, Victor Garcia was third at 125 pounds, and David Holloway took third at 160 pounds. Tyler Wood took a fourth at 171 pounds while David Potter was fifth at 112 pounds and Tyler Stains took fifth at 189 pounds. Cody Book took a sixth at 103 pounds. Webb Dunn and Trey Wright wrestled well, but finished just one match out of the medals.

Boys in hoop playoffs, girls miss cut

Modoc's boys varsity team got the 10th seed, out of 16, in the CIF North Section Division V boys basketball playoffs and played seventh seed Tulelake, there last night after press time.

Modoc's varsity girl's team did not make the post season, finishing with a record of 6-16 overall and 4-8 in the Shasta Cascade League. The boys finished at 14-9 and 7-5 in the SCL.

Both teams lost their final games of the season to Trinity Feb. 15. Modoc's girls fell 52-41.
Modoc's boys come into the playoff after the 65-55 loss to Trinity. The Braves led 13-7 in the first, and led 30-19 at halftime. Trinity blew them away in the second half, outscoring the Braves 21-11 in the third and 25-14 in the fourth. Trent Schmidt led the scoring with 21 and Justin Estes added 13.

Modoc beat Fall River Feb. 13, 54-38, after jumping out to a 15-4 first period lead. Modoc led 29-16 at halftime and 44-29 after three. Schmidt led with 18 points; Estes added 13 and Dee Hunsaker 10.
If Modoc beats Tulelake, they would probably have to travel to the winner of the Pierce (seeded number 2) versus Los Molinos, seeded number 15, on Feb. 22.

The following are the seedings for the tournament: 1, Liberty Christian; 2, Pierce; 3, Quincy; 4, Redding Christian; 5, Portola; 6, Hamilton; 7, Tulelake; 8, Etna; 9, Durham; 10, Modoc; 11, Weed; 12, East Nicolaus; 13, Chester; 14, Esparto; 15, Los Molinos; and 16, Fall River.

The girls lost to Fall River Dec. 13, 50-47. Fall River led 13-6 in the first, but Modoc led 21-19 by half. The Braves held a 32-29 lead after three, but Fall River outscored them 21-15 in the fourth period for the win. Emily Conner led with 15 points; Brynn Juanarena added 11 and Sarah Catania had 10.

Against Trinity, Modoc was tied at 20 at halftime. Trinity outscored them 15-7 in the third and 17-14 in the fourth. Catania led with 10 points, Sammy Schmidt had nine and Michel Funk and Juanarena each netted eight.

Hornets advance in playoffs

Surprise Valleys' boys varsity basketball team beat Downieville 69-49 in the first round of the Division VI North Section Basketball playoffs Tuesday night, there. They will travel to Hayfork tonight for their second round game.

The Hornets survived the five-hour drive to Downieville and came out strong with a 19-19 first period. Surprise Valley jumped up to a 34-21 lead at halftime and led 56-32 after three.

Chris Fenske and Alex Konz led the balanced scoring attack with 14 points each, Kevin Quick chipped in with 12, Geoffrey Washburn added 10, Sal Ruiz had eight, Ian Konz seven and Jordon Mussa four.

February 28th, 2008

News

Board approves hospital price increase

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday approved a host of recommendations from Interim Chief Administrative Officer Jim Sato and staff.

Sato had presented Supervisors a lengthy and detailed analysis of his recommendations, backed up by current and historical financial data.

Probably the biggest issue the board approved was an average 22 percent price increase at Modoc Medical Center for services at the facilities, and relating items approving a sliding fee scale for the clinic and Fair Pricing Policy for the hospital. The later two issues would cover patients who do not have third party insurance and would provide a discount based upon income.

In addition, the Board approved an increase in the on-call pay for ambulance employees from the current $2.75 per hour to $3.00 per hour, changed an accounting position to Revenue Cycle Coordinator and added a temporary position to the business office.

Sato said one of his main objectives was to enhance the revenue producing side of the hospital, by reinstating services for the community and adding new and needed services.

For instance, the CT Scanner that has been leased is expected to be in and running by April 30, although there has been some delay in manufacturing, Sato said.

Sato will be on board at MMC until April 30, when he'll be off to assist another hospital. He told the Board he would like to see it advertise and possibly hire a full time, non-interim administrator by that time. He would like the county to continue recruitment of that position in earnest.

Sato said he is feeling very positive about the Critical Access Hospital certification and believes MMC will pass that survey once it is undertaken by the state. He projects the extra funding from that CAH designation could come as early as September. Sato said a second audit firm confirmed the initial estimate that the CAH revenue could amount to about $700,000 annually to MMC. He said he has no reason to doubt those figures, which would be a large boost to the hospital's bottom line.

Some of his other revenue enhance goals are to reduce the days in accounts receivable (billing) to 60 by June 30. The current time lapse is about 97 days. The staff is evaluating every step of the revenue cycle now to determine where the bill is stuck.

Another big revenue producing item is filling the beds at Warnerview, the skilled nursing facility. The current Warnerview patient number is 42 and Sato would like to see that increased to 50 by June 30.
According to Sato's presentation, the percent of revenue at Modoc Medical Center by department is as follows: Hospital inpatient 7.2 percent; hospital outpatient 50.7 percent; Warnerview 30.3 percent; and Clinic 11.8 percent. Sato would also like to see the hospital inpatient and clinic levels improve.
According to MMC's business office estimate, from October 2007 through December 2007, Medi-Cal amounted to 42 percent of the revenue; Medicare accounted for 33 percent; commercial and third party payers 17 percent; and private pay eight percent.

At Warnerview, 86 percent of the revenue came from Medi-Cal and another 10 percent from Medicare. Medicare picked up 62 percent of the hospital inpatient care and Medi-Cal another 17 percent. Private insurance accounted for 26 percent of hospital outpatient and 28 percent of the clinic revenue. Private pay chipped in 14 percent of inpatients and 10 percent of the clinic revenue.

Sato estimates that the revenue enhancement with the CAH $700,000 and another $1.5 million from the prices increase and increases in usage and services could bring MMC near break-even or even into the black with proper management.

Sato and county staff, with Board approval, are also providing assistance to the Save our Hospital Committee to share a strategic/business plan that can be used in the LAFCO (Local Agency Formation Commission) to meet deadlines to get a hospital district formation and related property tax issue on the November ballot.

Save Hospital Group gets reactivated

The Save Our Hospital Committee has been eerily absent from the public view over the past few weeks, but has resurfaced again this week.

One of the major issues facing the hospital committee is moving the district formation proposal through the Local Agency Formation Commission, LAFCO. That process is getting some help now from county officials as well as the hospital staff and new hospital advisory committee.

According to SOH spokespeople, the Board of Supervisors, Hospital Advisory Board, and SOH are meeting now to hammer out a Memorandum of Understanding. That MOU will detail the actual process and configuration of the hospital district and operation, if the voters approve the district formation and funding.

At this point, the exact boundaries of the hospital district and tax level structures are in flux, but progress is being made and the SOH Committee will make those details known in the relatively near future.

While the SOH Committee has tentatively geared for an election in November 2008, a variety of items have to fall into place in a timely fashion for that to happen. Voters in the proposed district will be asked two questions; first whether to form the district, which takes a simple majority to pass; and two, and the most difficult, whether to approve a tax to fund the district which will require a two-thirds majority to pass.

"SOH Committee is making progress defining the proposed hospital district boundaries, developing a working business plan in cooperation with Modoc Medical Center, The Board of Supervisors, Interim Chief Executive Officer Jim Sato, Mike and Kathy Philips, and the five-year financial proposal which is required in order to proceed with the district formation," the SOH press release states. "We especially wish to thank County Chief Administrative Officer Mike Maxwell, the Board of Supervisors, Jim Sato and the entire Hospital Advisory Board, whose chair is Judge Guy Martin Young. They have all been of great assistance in developing and researching ideas and proposals to assist the LAFCO efforts."

The next SOH meeting is set for March 19, 7 p.m. at Modoc High School's Shirley Oxley Hall. The next Hospital Advisory Board meeting is March 20, 6 p.m. in the MMC Conference Room.

No additions to county races

There are no changes in the Modoc County Supervisor races for the June 3 Primary Election.
Supervisors Mike Dunn, Patricia Cantrall and Shorty Crabtree are all being challenged. Two people have taken out papers to runs against Dunn: Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock and long time resident Bob Clark.

Cantrall will face a challenge from Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley.

Challengers to District Four's Crabtree are Ron McCullough and Jim Wills.

The filing period is open through March 7.

Also on the June Primary Ballot will be the Alturas City Council seats of John Schreiber, Cheryl Nelson and George Andreasen. Nelson and Schreiber will run for another term. One person has taken out papers, Alturas businessman Bobby Ray.

Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker is also seeking re-election to her position.

The nomination period runs through March 7 normally, but if Andreasen does not file, the council period will be extended for five days.

Fire destroys 2nd street home

A Valentine's Day fire completely destroyed a home at 702 West 2nd Street in Alturas.

Alturas Fire Marshal Steve Jacques said the fire was reported at 2:46 a.m. and the first fire truck left the barn three minutes later. When fire crews arrived, the single-family home was fully engulfed in flames.

Three residents were in the home when the fire erupted and all three escaped, reporting only minor injuries from breaking out a window and escaping through the broken glass.

According to Jacques, the possible cause of the fire was embers coming from the fireplace. There was heavy fire and smoke damage throughout the structure.

Fire crews knocked down the fire and were on the scene for about an hour-and-a-half. Four engines and 18 firemen responded to the blaze.

Air Pollution district hosts meeting on diesel rig impacts

The Modoc County Air Pollution Control District is hosting a public meeting March 5, 6 p.m. at the Brass Rail Banquet Room to address a proposed new regulation that could impact many diesel-powered vehicles.

"The State of California Air Resources Board is in the process of writing a regulation that will have a major impact on the owners and operators of all heavy duty diesel-powered vehicles operating in California," states the APCD release. "In the present form, this regulation has the potential to have a major financial impact on all individuals in the trucking industry by requiring engine replacement, exhaust retrofits, and/or truck replacement within a specified time line."

The regulation will specifically target the following: all heavy duty diesel-fueled vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 14,000 pounds; any person, business or government agency that owns, leases, rents, operates or sells heavy duty diesel vehicles; heavy duty diesel vehicles that are designed to be driven on road even though they might not be registered to be driven on road; school buses; and shuttle vehicles.

"It's important that all interested parties attend this meeting to gather information and learn what affect this regulation could have on all involved," states the APCD.

Obituaries:

Bertha Townsend

Bertha Townsend, 90, born Jan. 15, 1918 an Elder of the Fort Bidwell Paiute Indian Reservation, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2008, at the Lake District Hospital in Lakeview, OR.

She attended school in Fort Bidwell and the Stewart Indian School in Carson, NV. She married Herman Townsend and they raised six children. During their working years, they resided in Willow Ranch, Alturas and Bly, OR, before retiring to the Fort Bidwell Reservation.

Bertha worked as a cook for the local ranchers of Fort Bidwell, housekeeper while residing in Alturas and 15 years as a Teacher's Aide in Bly, OR, and Cedarville, CA, before retiring.

Bertha leaves behind her husband of 70 years, Herman Townsend, and five children: Charlotte Brown, Randy Townsend, Cindy LameBull, Joe Townsend, and Ann Cochran; Brothers, Ralph, Edson and Burt DeGarmo and sister, Lorraine DeGarmo; 27 Grandchildren 62 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren; and numerous Nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Nettie and Nemsini DeGarmo; son, Bobby Townsend; brothers, Amos, Ernie Merle and Clarence DeGarmo; grandson, Tyler Townsend and great grandchildren, Reianna Townsend, Michael Cochran and Loren Adams.

A wake was held at the Fort Bidwell Reservation gymnasium Friday evening, Feb. 15, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 16, 2008. The interment took place in the family plot at the Fort Bidwell.

Ousley Osterman Huffstutter Funeral Chapel had charge of arrangements.

Leola Miller Kresge Dunkin

On February 10, 2008, Leola Miller Kresge Dunkin went to be with her Lord. Leola was born August 24, 1921, in Adin, CA to Nathan Seward and Laura Miller Kresge. Leola attended elementary and high school in Adin, then went to Chico State College, graduating with a B.A. with teaching credentials in elementary education.

While at Chico State, Leola met Millard Dunkin and married him in Dec. 1942, a union lasting 62 years. Millard died in 2004. They had three sons, Robert (Carolyn) of Paradise, Larry of Chico, and Dean (Mary) of Apple Valley. While her sons were in elementary school, Leola was active in the PTA, and Cub Scouts. She has three granddaughters, Janene (Robert's), Briana, and Kristina (Dean's); one grandson, Mark (Robert's); two great-granddaughter's, Kayla and Tori (Robert's) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Leola's two brothers, Marcel and Owen preceded her in death.

Leola and Millard, in the 30 years of service as Corps Sergeant Majors at the Salvation Army, taught Sunday School classes for new soldiers, worked at home league, rest home ministries and many other activities to numerous to mention, Leola shall be missed, as was Millard.

Well done thou good and faithful servant.

Leola's service will be held on Friday, Feb. 15, 2008 at the Chico Salvations Army Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests all donations be made to the Salvation Army. Share your thoughts and memories of Leola online at www.nbcfh.com
    
Dorothy Feldhake

Former Alturas resident Dorothy Marie Feldhake, age 97, passed away at Mercy San Juan Hospital in Carmichael, CA, Jan. 9, 2008. She was born June 26, 1910, in Columbus, Ohio, to John W. and Olivia Jacobs Vernon. 

She lived in Concord, CA, from 1940 to 1968, in Paradise from 1968 to 1996, then resided with family in Concord, San Jose, Central Point, OR, Alturas, CA, (with niece Jo Harder) and Fair Oaks, before moving to Carmichael. She was a member of the Holy Family Church of San Jose and St. Thomas More Church of Paradise, where she was housekeeper for eight years.  She also attended Shepherd of the Valley Church in Central Point and Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Alturas. 
An active supporter of Veterans, she belonged to several auxiliary groups, and the GPO chapter of NARFE. Starting as a nurse's aide in the 1940s, Dorothy later became an LVN.  After retirement she worked in nursing homes in Paradise and also volunteered on behalf of nursing home residents.  Her family was her greatest priority. She enjoyed reading, crafts, and traveling.

Dorothy will be missed by her loving children, Byron Feldhake of Concord, William Feldhake of Oregon, Mary Cosme of Fair Oaks, eight grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bill, and brother John. The funeral liturgy was celebrated Jan.16, at St. Agnes Church in Concord, with burial following at St. Stephen's Cemetery. Her loving heart and generous ways will always be remembered by her family.

Patsy Ruth Abasta

Patsy Ruth Abasta, loving wife, mother and grandmother, who made Alturas her home for 30 years, passed away in Rogers, Arkansas on February 20, 2008, of natural causes after a long illness. Mrs. Abasta and her husband Art relocated eight months ago to Rogers, Arkansas.

Patsy Ruth Cox was born on April 9, 1933, in Pitcher, Oklahoma. She married Augustin "Art" ,Abasta in Reno, NV on May 13, 1960. Mrs. Abasta, better known as Pat to her friends and family, was a chef at California Pines Lodge. She later operated a Mexican restaurant at the Alamo near Cal Pines, with her husband. She adored her children and grandchildren and was always there for them. She will be dearly missed.

She leaves her husband Art of Rogers, AK; five children and their children: daughter Teresa Eames and her family Thomas and Timothy Eames of Rogers, AK and John Weber of Alturas, CA; daughter Diana Lawson and husband Scott of Pomona, CA; son Gus Abasta of Denver, CO; daughter Patty Erd and her family Bruce and Jessica Erd of Woodstock, GA; daughter Yvonne Zapeda and her family Carlos, Mercedes, Reyna, Carlos and AJ Zapeda of Rio Vista, CA and two brothers, Albert Cox and Morris Cox of Riverside, CA.

Benton Funeral Home in Rogers, Arkansas took care of arrangements.

The family plans to hold a memorial service in Alturas, CA later this spring.

Condolences may be sent to the Abasta family at 601 W. Easy Street, Rogers, AK 72756.

Sports

Wood wins Masters, on to state finals

Modoc's Josh Wood pretty much cruised through the North Section Master Wrestling Tournament in Redding last weekend and travels to Bakersfield this week for the California State Wresting Championships.

Wood, a junior, is the son of wrestling coach Shaun Wood. His older brother Travis was also a state finalist for Modoc.

Wood started the Masters with a pin of Enterprise's Gage Silkwood. He then scored a technical fall 17-2 against Winter's Tyler Brickey. Wood then had another technical fall 19-2 against Jim Longnecker of Chico. In the finals match, he decisioned Austin Morehead, of Sutter, 13-2.

"Josh didn't have a lot of competition at the Masters, and we knew that going in," said coach Wood. "He'll have some very tough competition early at the state level. I believe he'll be able to place at the state finals, it depends on the early draw. He's wrestling well right now."

Josue Madrigal placed sixth at the Master's tourney in the 137-pound divison. He won his first three matches by decision over Steve Alvarez, LO, 9-6; Jared Stine, Willows 6-4 and Brett Schumann of Foothill 7-6, before losing to Pleasant Valley's Marcus Ocequeda 7-0.

Jacob Ketler, Modoc's heavyweight, was battling the flu during the tourney and won the first patch but lost the second to Alex Pinto of Wheatland and the third match to Thomas Conley of Oroville.

Modoc's Tyler Wood, at 173 pounds, David Holloway at 162 pounds, Victor Garcia at 127 pounds, Kevin Richardson 121 pounds, Kyle Hartman at 154 pounds, and Kyle Voth at 132 pounds all competed at the masters.

Voth lost his first match by pin but pinned his second opponent before being eliminated. Hartman was pinned in his first match, but won his second match by decisions before being eliminated.

Honkers bounce Braves from playoffs

The Tulelake Honkers bounced the Modoc Braves from the Division V North Section boys basketball playoffs Feb. 20, by the score of 63-58.

The Honkers, who came in as the seventh seed and Modoc 10th, took a 16-13 lead in the first period and led 33-28 at halftime. Both teams played even in the second half, scoring 13 each in the third period and 17 each in the fourth. Modoc could not break into the lead.

Dee Hunsaker led the scoring with 20 points, while Justin Estes and Trent Schmidt each added 12. Luke Woodson led Tulelake with 23 points, Cody Dodson added 13 and Spencer Greenback added 11.

Tulelake upset number two seed Pierce, 48-44, in the second game Friday and played at Hamilton City last night after Record presstime.

Spring sports set to start, really

Area high schools are starting practice for baseball, softball, track and golf this week, regardless of the weather forecast or field conditions.

Modoc Coach Tim MacDonnell will try to defend last year's section championship in baseball. The first game is set for March 14 at Tulelake.
The Braves softball team, under new coach Tanya Conner, will start their season with a March 14-15 Lassen tournament.

Modoc's track season starts slowly and will open with the Mt. Shasta Time Trails April 3. There is no home meet.

The Braves golf team opened yesterday at Palo Cedro. On March 3, they travel to Enterprise's Sevillano Links. Harold Montague coaches the perennial SCL championship golf team.

March 6, 2008

News

CHP warns of suspicious incident in Valley

The Alturas California Highway Patrol is warning residents of a suspicious incident, which occurred Feb. 26 in Surprise Valley involving a traffic stop.

According to the CHP, a teenager was stopped on County Road 18 about 4 p.m. that day by a man driving a black SUV with tinted windows. The SUV had a rotating blue light on its dashboard.
The teenager, thinking it was a law enforcement vehicle pulled over. The man driving the SUV approached the teenager and flashed a badge identifying himself as a special agent. The man asked a few questions and then let the teenager leave. The man was described as a tall, white male with a stocky build and a military style haircut. He was dressed in a dress shirt with a tie.

The CHP and Modoc Sheriff's Office do not have any officers who drive a similar vehicle and there were no units in the area at the time.

The incident becomes more ominous, said Modoc Sheriff Mark Gentry because in January, 1981 two college students from Washington were stopped on U.S. 395 on the Madeline Plains by three men who red lighted them. The two students were kidnapped and later murdered. The suspects in that case were arrested and convicted of murder. One of them, Benjamin Silva appealed his conviction and is now facing a new trial in Lassen County.

Gentry said there was also another similar incident about 10 years ago north of Canby on Highway 139 when a person with a fake badge stopped a driver. There were no injuries in that case.

The CHP offers the following tips when you are not sure if a legitimate officer is attempting to pull you over.

"Most units are distinguished with agency markings and the officer is in an identifiable uniform. The units that are not marked are generally not used for regular patrol, but if they are trying to pull you over, they will have a steady red light and officers will identify what agency they're with.

"If it is night time and you are not sure if the officer is legitimate, obey all traffic laws (i.e. speed limit, etc.) until you reach a place of safety such as a well-lit area or an area where people are located. If it is in a remote area, officers will be understanding of the situation.

"If you have a cell phone, dial 9-1-1. Tell the dispatch center your location and that you are not sure if it is an officer trying to pull you over. They can communicate with any officer who is pulling you over.

"If you see more than one patrol unit, they are most likely legitimate officers.

"Keep your doors locked unless directed by the officer. A regular patrol officer will be in a departmental uniform with modern equipment and CHP officers will have a departmental identification in addition to a badge."

For more safety tips, or for more information please contact the CHP at 530-233-2919. Anyone who has information on the suspicious incident should contact CHP Officer Seth Fletcher at the above number.

June primary deadline nears for county, city

Candidates are close to being firmed up in the Modoc County Supervisor races for the June 3 Primary Election.

Supervisors Mike Dunn, Patricia Cantrall and Shorty Crabtree are all being challenged this year. Two people have taken out papers to runs against Dunn: Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock and long time resident Bob Clark.

Cantrall will face a challenge from Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley.

Challengers to District Four's Crabtree are Ron McCullough and Jim Wills.
The nomination filing period will close March 7.

Also on the June Primary Ballot will be the Alturas City Council seats of John Schreiber, Cheryl Nelson and George Andreasen. Nelson and Schreiber will run for another term; Andreasen will not run again. One person has filed, Alturas businessman Bobby Ray. The nomination period runs through March 12.

Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker is also seeking re-election to her position.

Study shows millions lost if MMC closes

While it comes as no surprise to Modoc County Supervisors, a study commissioned by them on the economic impacts of losing Modoc Medical Center is sobering.

The Center for Economic Development at Chico State presented the study to the Board at Tuesday's meeting. The Board took the study under advisement and will have more discussion on it in the near future.

According to the study, the gross economic impact of MMC, the impact of all operations is nearly $12.5 million in revenue to businesses and organizations, $5.7 million in labor income (income to employees and business owners), and 160 jobs.

"This includes the direct impact of the hospital itself, and a secondary impact of over $2.8 million in revenue to businesses and organizations, over $830,000 in labor income and 26 jobs," the study states.

The hospital employed 124 full time people with a total payroll, including benefits, of $4,843,678 for the last fiscal year.

"The economic impact of potential hospital closure is not limited to the direct expenditures, payroll and jobs provided by the hospital," the study points out. "There is also a secondary impact, which is the sum of indirect and induced spending and job losses ... covering situations such as an employee of the hospital buying groceries at the local store or having a vehicle repaired at a local shop. If the employee's income were no longer there because of the hospital closing, the grocery store and repair shop also lose business as a result. Secondary impact also considers losses to janitorial services and other goods and services the hospital may buy locally."

The study basically says that for the hospital to remain open, a subsidy from the community may have to be provided. Converting MMC to a district hospital with its necessary property tax is one option. The study states that the net economic impact of a property tax assessment is positive.

"If aggregate value of taxes collected to support the hospital totaled $1.5 million, the effect on the economy would be diversion of $1.5 million in household income that normally would have been spent elsewhere," the CED contends. "Over $609,000 of this income would have been spent locally, generating nearly $150,000 in labor income and seven jobs. After considering the additional economic cost due to secondary impacts, the total cost to the county would be more than $727,000 in revenue to businesses and organizations, $184,000 in labor income and eight jobs."

The intrinsic and less quantifiable impacts of the hospital closing would also impact the overall quality of life, could mean some agencies or businesses leaving the community, and could mean that some people, who were considering a move to Alturas, would reconsider.

In addition, the population trends in MMC's market area show some interesting issues. "The peak in-migration for MMC market area residents is young children under the age of 10, family-age adults between the ages of 20 and 34, and middle-age adults between the ages of 45 and 64," the CED study states. "There is a substantial net out-migration for young people ages 10-24 and people over the age of 65."

The study does cite a possibility that between now and 2020 the baby boomer effect may hit the area, and the population of individuals ages 55-79 is expected to increase by over 900.

"As one of the groups in need of hospital services, older adults are an especially important group to MMC," CED says. "While total population may be declining in Modoc County, the number of residents most likely to use MMC is growing. The significance of this is two-fold: first, MMC can expect its potential market to grow in the near future; second, this is a large group of community residents who may not be able to locate in the MMC market area if a hospital were not available."
The study also concludes that the while the potential closure of the hospital would have a severe economic impact, it would not likely result in the loss of all medical services. Clinics and other service providers may expand to partially fill the void. But, the study cautions, those services would generate only a small portion of the economic benefit provided by MMC.

It should be noted that the county and other groups are mounting serious efforts to ensure that MMC remains viable and open and forming a hospital district is certainly one of the options. That issue could be on the November general election ballot this year.

New hospital grant progressing through channels

The proposal to build a new hospital in Alturas, through a historic combination of local government and Indian Tribes, called the Modoc Frontier Healthcare Coalition, is making its way through channels at the U.S. House of Representatives.

According to MFHC coordinator Jerry Smith, a former Alturas City Councilman, the proposal is in the office of Representative John Doolittle whose staff is preparing the proposal for the appropriations committee consideration.

"We've had four conversations with architect, trying to give us some solutions, on a greener building so we can do a more environmentally viable facility," Smith said. "We are seriously exploring geothermal for energy use. It's really looking good."

Smith said the City Council voted to identify some city land where to place the facility. The council is still studying that issue and has not yet determined a plot of land for the new hospital. The council was in agreement that the City could possibly come up with the location.

Smith met with Senator Dave Cox and Assemblyman Doug LaMalfa today in Sacramento to seek a joint resolution from the state in support of the project.

Smith said letters of support from community members have been "pouring in" and more are needed. Over two-thirds of the current hospital employees have sent in support letters for the new hospital.

The New Frontier Health Coalition is made up of: Strong Family Health, Pit River tribe, Cedarville Rancheria, Fort Bidwell tribe, the City of Alturas and the County of Modoc. The coalition is seeking a grant estimated at $30 million for 30,000 square foot modular facility.

According to Smith, around mid-April, the coalition should learn that appropriation had been approved. A grant application would have to be submitted by July. By late summer, grant status notification should be forthcoming and actual plans and construction would run over four and five years, depending on the permitting processes.

"We've had some questions on the modular construction proposal," said Smith. "What that means is that we can change the configuration or plans, but it's still concrete and steel construction."
Letters of support are still need and may be sent to: 1203 Oak Street, Alturas, Ca. 96101; or FAX it to 530-233-3055 or email it to modocfrontierhealthcarecoalition@yahoo.com.

Smith said the community understands that the Frontier Hospital Coalition's goals for a new hospital should not be confused with the other groups' efforts to maintain a hospital in Alturas.

While the Frontier Hospital coalition is not working directly in concert with the Save Our Hospital Committee, or the County's Hospital Advisory Committee, each of the groups' goals is to improve or maintain hospital care in Modoc.

Obituaries:

Edna Ella Price

Edna Ella Price of McMinnville, OR passed away on February 27,2008, in Carlton, OR, with family at her side. Born February 24, 1910, in Ashfork, Arizona, the daughter of William Henry and Lovella P. Brown Pitts, she spent her youth working as a cowgirl on their ranch in Arizona. At the age of 15, Edna was crowned the first "Queen of the Grand Canyon".

Edna met Benell Price at a Halloween Dance in 1925 and they were married January 11, 1927, in Prescott, Arizona. Ben worked as a cattle boss and Edna worked cooking for all the cowboys and the ranch hands. They worked in Arizona, Nevada, California and Oregon. In 1950 the Prices' moved to Percy Fredrickson Ranch in Ravendale, CA and worked there for several years. They also worked at the Williams Ranch in Likely, Deep Hole Ranch in Gerlach, NV, Long Valley Ranch in Vya, NV. In 1959, they named Cedarville, CA their home and Edna opened "The Cozy Corner" restaurant. She owned it for 10 years before retiring.

While enjoying retirement years, in 1971 Ben and Edna went to reside with their youngest son at Jake Price Stables in Carlton, OR. Following her husband's death in 1982, Edna moved back to Cedarville, CA to be close to her daughters for 21 years. The last five years she has resided in McMinnville, OR at Parkland Village with the final two years at Oakwood Retirement Home.

Edna celebrated 98 years of full life just three days before her passing. She considered having and raising her four children and being married to Ben for 55 years as being the most valuable achievement in her life. She absolutely loved dancing and also enjoyed horseback riding and sewing. In her early years, she was famous for designing and making western shirts.

She is survived by her children and their spouses, Bud Price and wife Bea of Susanville, CA; Jake Price and wife Shirley of Carlton, OR; daughters Bonna Ytcaina and husband Peter and Barbara Heryford and husband Bill, all of Cedarville, CA; nine grandchildren: Susie Bunyard, Cedarville, CA; Sheri Winslow, Marietta, CA; Shannon Polland, Susanville, CA; Melinda Heryford, Sacramento, CA; Loren Heryford, Yamhill, OR; Don Price, Lafayette, OR; Steven Farwell, Elk Grove; Kevin Farwell, Elk Grove; Tyler Odom, McMinnville, OR; 19 great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ben Price; brothers William and Charles Pitts and sisters, Mahala Pitts, Mae Willis and Ruth Butler.

A celebration of Edna's life will be held March 10, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. at the Surprise Valley Community Church in Cedarville, CA. Donations may be made to Surprise Valley Community Church or Surprise Valley Community Hospital both of Cedarville, CA.

Eleanor 'Ellie' Glass

Eleanor Glass was born in Stonehaven, Scotland on January 20, 1934. She died in Spokane, Washington on February 29, 2008. Eleanor is survived by her husband James Glass, sister Margaret Mueller, brother-in-law Alvin Mueller, daughters Deborah Glass and Marie McMichael, and son-in law Richard McMichael.

She attended Whittier College in Whittier, California where she obtained her teaching credential. She was known as Ellie to friends and colleagues and as Mrs. Glass to the thousands of students she instructed and helped throughout her teaching career. Mrs. Glass taught high school Home Economics and Life Skills as well as Independent Study and Adult Education. All who knew her found her to be an extremely generous person. She cared about the welfare of others, saw the potential in each person and guided them to realize their dreams in life. She had a good sense of humor and was very quick with a comeback. She enjoyed reading, baking, knitting, word puzzles, playing cards, learning new things, and sharing interesting facts and stories with others.

A memorial service will be held at Faith Baptist Church, Carlos and West Streets, Alturas, California on Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to share their thoughts and stories about Ellie. A pot luck fellowship lunch will be served after the service.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Healing Rooms Ministries, 112 E. First Avenue, Spokane, WA 99202. Note "Ellie Glass" on the memo line of your check.

Patsy Ruth Abasta

Patsy Ruth Abasta, loving wife, mother and grandmother, who made Alturas her home for 30 years, passed away in Rogers, Arkansas on February 20, 2008, of natural causes after a long illness. Mrs. Abasta and her husband Art relocated eight months ago to Rogers, Arkansas.

Patsy Ruth Cox was born on April 9, 1933, in Pitcher, Oklahoma to Ruth and Willie Isaiah Cox. She graduated from high school in Miami, OK. Her father died when she was a young teen.

She married Augustin "Art" Abasta in Reno, NV on May 13, 1960. Mrs. Abasta, better known as Pat to her friends and family, worked at California Pines Lodge off and on for over 30 years. As the chef, she cooked for movie stars such as Roy Rogers, and a long list of famous people including Gen. Chuck Yeager and Gen. Doolittle during the annual Honker Hunts held at the Lodge for many years.
"Mom was always cooking somewhere and fed just about everybody," say her children. She later operated a Mexican restaurant at the Alamo near Cal Pines, with her husband. She adored her children and grandchildren and was always there for them. She will be dearly missed.

She leaves her husband Art of Rogers, AK; five children and their children: daughter Teresa Eames and her family Thomas and Timothy Eames of Rogers, AK and John Weber of Alturas, CA; daughter Diana Lawson and husband Scott of Pomona, CA; son Gus Abasta of Denver, CO; daughter Patty Erd and her family Bruce and Jessica Erd of Woodstock, GA; daughter Yvonne and Carlos Zepeda and their family Mercedes, Reyna, Carlos, Jr. and AJ Zepeda of Rio Vista, CA and two brothers, Albert W. Cox of Riverside, CA and Morris Cox and wife Ann of Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Her mother passed away in the 1980s.

The family plans to hold a memorial service in Alturas, CA later this spring.

Condolences may be sent to the Abasta family at 601 W. Easy Street, #V69, Rogers, AK 72756.
Benton Funeral Home in Rogers, Arkansas took care of arrangements.

Mabelle A. McKinsey

Mabelle Aileen McKinsey of Cedarville, CA passed away February 29, 2008 at Fall River Mills Nursing Home, Fall River Mills, CA. She moved to Surprise Valley 38 years ago. She was a Notary Public for 20 years. She is survived by a daughter Marie McKinsey of Washington and one grandson. She was born in Attumwa, Iowa to Glenn and Letitia Sanderson on May 16, 1917. Private interment at Cedarville Cemetery. Arrangements made by Kerr Mortuary.

Sports

Wood earns 4th place at State Finals

Modoc junior Josh Wood earned fourth place in the CIF State Wrestling championships last weekend in Bakersfield at 215 pounds.

Wood tied 2001's Tony Willis for the best effort by a Modoc wrestler in the state finals. Willis was a senior when he placed at state.

Wood went into the state finals as one of the "wrestlers to watch" but wasn't ranked. On his way to fourth place, he beat all but the top three ranked wrestlers in the division. Since those three are all seniors this year, Wood should get the number one state ranking when the season starts next year. The only other underclassman placed seventh and Wood beat him 6-2.

For the tourney Wood went 6-2, pretty much destroying the consolation bracket on this way to fourth place.

Wood won his first match of the tourney on Friday with a 19-2 technical fall over Javier Hernandez of Temecula Valley. That win put him up against Matt Gibson of Jesse Bethel High.

That match was tied 2-2 with about 20 seconds left and Gibson called for an injury time out. Wood just missed a late move and Gibson wound up a 4-2 winner. Gibson would lose his next match.

The loss put Wood into the consolation bracket, where the best he could finish was third.

"I was mad that I lost the second match, I felt I could have won it," said Wood. "I always expect more from myself, but I'd set a goal of placing in the top four at state and that was still possible.

On Friday, Wood pinned Sandoval Abraham of Bell (LA) at the 3:35 mark. He then pinned Brian Schoene of Bakersfield at the 2:52 mark.

Once he's finished Friday's wrestling, he knew he could place at state and each successive win he got would move him up one place.

"I just figured I'd go full out each match," Wood said. "You know it's gong to be tough, you're wrestling against the best wrestlers in the state and every match is full go."

Wood pinned Poway's Chris Crosthwaite at the 2:57 mark to start Saturday's rounds and then beat Meulman of St. Francis 6-2. That put him no lower than sixth. Wood then beat Dominic Demarco of Ponderosa 8-5 to put him in the third place match against his nemesis Gibson.

Wood got down early in that match, but fought back to trail just 11-9 in the third. Gibson wound up winning 13-9 for third and Wood placed fourth.
"It was a tough match and a long day," Wood said. "But when I got close it was exciting. I did my best and I'm pleased with the fourth place finish. I though I probably could have competed well against the top two."

The coach, Shaun Wood, Josh's father, couldn't have been prouder. "Josh was a little upset after he lost the second match, but he came back and just destroyed most of the consolation bracket, He cruised through some state-ranked guys. We're very proud of him and people at the state level know who he is now."
Josh, who seldom needs more inspiration than just the competition, had a little extra going into the state finals. "I wanted to make my grandpa proud," he said. His grandfather, Skip Wood, is battling cancer. "He was really proud and that means a lot."

Josh is going to take the next sports season off. He set a new school record this year with 49 wins, eclipsing the 46 by Adam Howell in 1995. He also broke his brother Travis' record for most pins with 39 over 37 and Blake Wilson's take down record.

He's been wrestling since he was two, without much choice since his dad was also a championship wrestler and the youth and Modoc High coach.

He says his biggest advantage, outside of strength and size, comes from his ability to react to openings without having to think about the move to use.
Placing fourth at the California State finals also brought with it an increased flood of letters from interested colleges. Wood is an All-league football player for Modoc at tight end and defensive end and would like to play ball or wrestle in college.

Local runners do well at NorCal

Over 30 local runners competed in the John Frank NorCal distance races this past Saturday, March 1 in Redding, CA. Several runners won medals and the third through fifth grade team from Alturas placed first in their division.
In the kindergarten through eighth grade division 25 runners from Alturas competed in the one mile run against 163 other runners. Ashley Hoy finished second while Lady Lopez was fifth in the girls division while Cam Anderson, Ben Bevil, Jac Derner, and Daniel Martin were first through fourth in the seventh grade division. Jonathan Morgan, Patrick Bratton and Taylor McPeek also finished well in the seventh grade division.

In the third through fifth grade division Alan Weber led the pack with a third place in the fifth grade. In addition Paden Smith was first in the fourth grade while Collin Martin and Jeff Gouveia were first and second in the third grade. On the girls side Emily Lowrey was first in the fourth grade while Beth Derner and Hayley McPeek were fourth and fifth. Kylee Ward was fourth in the third grade. Other runners competing were Sean Anderson, Mattee Vickerman, Larrel Smith and Michael Bratton.

In the kindergarten through second grade division Cynthia Mason from Fall River was the overall girls' winner by over 40 seconds. Furthermore Caitlin O'Malley was fifth in the second grade girls, Tucker Lowrey and Joshua Bratton also did well.

Two local high school runners competed in the three and 10 mile with Cain Madrigal finishing second in the high school 10 mile while Rachel Bratton finished fifth in the high school three mile. In addition two adults ran the three and the 10 with Don Mason winning the 55-60 year old division and Steve Bratton running the 10 mile in 78 minutes.

Youth wrestling tourney this Saturday

The annual Modoc Youth Wrestling Tournament is scheduled for Saturday in Alturas with about 300 wrestlers expected to attend.

Weigh-ins will start at 6:30 a.m. at the Griswold Gym and the under six age group will start at about 9 a.m. The other age groups, through Middle School, will begin bouts at about 10 a.m.

Modoc's Youth Wrestling team will be represented by about 30 wrestlers. Teams from throughout the region participate in the tourney which will run all day Saturday into the early evening.

Spring sports on tap

He baseball and softball fields are starting to dry out, the track is almost usable, the golf course snow banks are melting and the weather is warming, albeit slightly.

That means spring sports are here.

Modoc's baseball team is set to start at Tulelake March 14. Modoc softball opens with the Lassen Tournament March 14-15 n Susanville.

Modoc's golf team heads to Eagle Point March 13.

Track gets off to a slow start with its first run at the Mt. Shasta Time Trials April 3.

March 13, 2008

News

Races set for local elections June 3

Races are now set for city and county elections coming up in the June 3 Primary. The campaigns have official started following the March 7 nomination deadline.

The County Supervisor seats of District II's Mike Dunn, District III's Patricia Cantrall and District IV's Shorty Crabtree are all being challenged this year.

Dunn will face off against Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock. Another potential challenger did not file papers.

Cantrall is being challenged by Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley.

Challengers to District Four's Crabtree are Ron McCullough and Jim Wills.

There will be no election required for the Alturas City Council seats of John Schreiber, Cheryl Nelson and George Andreasen. Nelson and Schreiber did file for another term and Andreasen did not. Alturas businessman Bobby Ray did file for nomination. Since there are three seats open and only three candidates have filed, no election is necessary. According to the City, that will save about $6,500 in election costs.

Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker is also seeking re-election to her position and is not challenged.

Schools wary of budget cuts, uncertainty

School Districts and County Schools Offices in the northstate and once again going into a budget years without firm numbers from either the state of federal governments.

Modoc County Superintendent of School Gary Jones is most concerned.

"The silence concerning federal revenue for our schools has given way to rumors of potential agreements," Jones said this week. "In Washington, silence is deadly, while rumors indicate some degree of life. Our schools wait and hope for funding form Forest Reserve and Medi-Cal Administrative Activities 'MAA.' The annual loss to our local schools is $2.1 million – an average shortfall of $1,000 per student."

According to an article in the Intermountain News out of Burney, the Mountain Union School District was seeking public comment on the possibility of closing either the Cedar Creek or Montgomery Creek School to address state budget cuts.

Modoc County has not yet gotten to that point, and no school closures or layoffs are forecast for the coming year. However, if the dismal budget projections and realities continue, jobs will not be secure for long into the future.

"On the state's front, legislators and the governor are considering setting aside Prop. 98, which guarantees a minimum funding level for schools, and cutting other educational revenues using inventive methods," Jones said. "John Mockler, Paul Goldfinger and other leaders of California's educational establishment say this period of school finance is the toughest in memory."

Jones said that even with the impending budget cuts at the state and federal level, the county office and local school districts "have necessary reserves to withstand the initial affects of such large losses in revenue."

He stresses, however, that school systems cannot sustain annual losses of this size without changes to educational programs and services.

"As County Superintendent, my duty is to serve a very high needs population of students within county schools and local districts," Jones said. "This can only be done by maintaining an incredibly gifted and capable staff.

"To ensure students' educational needs continue to be met, prudent decisions will be made in the coming months about which expenditures, programs, and functions are scaled back, reorganized, or eliminated. These decisions will rely heavily on comments and input from staff members of the county and district school systems."

Jones is getting a lot of information coming out of Washington concerning the federal dollars, but nothing has come across his desk that eases his nerves, at last not yet.

"While I continue to hope that Washington's rumors will bear good news, school leaders cannot base the educational wellbeing of children and the livelihood of staff members on such rumors," he said. "I am proud to say that n talking to school board members, district superintendents, teachers an classified staff, there a sense that we will find solutions to the challenges we face by working together."

Forest Announces New Firewood Policy

The new annual schedule for woodcutting will be from May 1 to February 28. This will help protect wet roads and reduce rutting off roadways. New woodcutting permits will go on sale at Forest and Ranger District offices beginning April 15.

In October the County of Modoc hosted a public meeting about firewood cutting. The meeting was held at the Sheriff's conference room. It was attended by more than 50 people. The main discussion was how to protect the old juniper and its importance for wildlife while providing opportunities to cut firewood on Forest Service and BLM managed lands.

"The group agreed to voluntarily avoid cutting old juniper trees," said Sean Curtis, Modoc County Natural Resources Department Head. "Their ability to cut firewood across the forest was more important to them than cutting the big old trees."

"Each woodcutter needs to know how to distinguish between the old and young junipers," said Forest Supervisor Stan Sylva. "They should cut only young juniper trees." Each permit holder will receive a handout on the characteristics of old Western juniper with photos of both old and young juniper.

"The age of a juniper tree has nothing to do with its size; it has more to do with form," Sylva said. "A young juniper will usually have a single trunk, smooth bark and a symmetrical pointed top. An old juniper, which may not be cut, will typically have a rounded top, more than one trunk or large low limbs; its trunk or trunks will be deeply furrowed and covered with red fibrous bark."

The Forest's new fuel wood policy will be available online soon at www.fs.fed.us/modoc/.

Nearly year-old drug bust now set for arraignment

Following a preliminary hearing Feb. 25, three defendants in a March 30, 2007 New Pine Creek drug bust were bound over for arraignment, and a fourth defendant's charges were dismissed.

According to District Attorney Gary Woolverton, the three defendants set for arraignment are Richard Ryan Compton, Jennifer Dizon, and Christopher Parker. Charges against Richard Lee Compton were dismissed.

The Modoc Drug Task Force served a search warrant March 30 last year on the residence of 393A and 393B Pintail Road in New Pine Creek and seized a large amount of marijuana, rifles, pistols and computer information.

According to the Task Force, it discovered a professional, sophisticated marijuana growing operation, a significant amount of dried, processed marijuana and 206 immature marijuana plants growing in a growing shed. In addition to the growing shed, there was a cultivation room within the residence of one of the defendants. The Task Force also discovered a computer with photographs that depicted the defendant growing and using marijuana. Some of the photos also showed the defendants allowing an 11-year-old to smoke marijuana with a bong.

Following the preliminary hearing, Modoc Superior Court Judge Frances Barclay held Richard Ryan Compton on charges alleging conspiracy to grow marijuana, felon in possession of a firearm, felon in possession of ammunition, furnishing marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, cultivating marijuana and other misdemeanor charges, The DA also filed a charge of furnishing marijuana to a child under age 14.

Dizon was bound over on charges of conspiracy to grow marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, cultivating marijuana, felony furnishing of marijuana to a minor under age 14 and other misdemeanor charges.

Parks will be tried alleging conspiracy to grow marijuana, cultivating marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, and miscellaneous misdemeanors and fish and game violations.

Three defendants will be arraigned March 18, 1:30 p.m. in Modoc Superior Court. Woolverton said he and the three defense attorneys will determine what appropriate procedures will follow.

"It is most likely that the matter will be set for jury trial, which will likely take place before mid-summer," the DA said. "This was a significant marijuana-growing operation and there will be testimony at the trial that the estimated sales from a grow this size would be somewhere between $1 million and $1.5 million per year. The growing operation was designed to sequence marijuana crops 24 hours per day, 365 days per year, utilizing the sophisticated growing equipment. For example, the defendant did not plant seeds. They began with a female clone. There were no male plants found or seized."

Class of '68 set for 40th

The Modoc High School Class of 1968 will hold its 40th reunion July 5 at the Elks Lodge in Alturas.
The class is now looking to locate its members and update addresses and contact information.
Class members are asked to email: modoc1968@hotmail.com and leave their email address or at least a mailing address.

Obituaries:

Mattie Dunn

Retired Alturas teacher, Mattie Dunn, passed away on March 9, 2007, at the age of 90. Services will be held at the Federated Community Church on Saturday, March 15 at 10 a.m. A potluck in the church social hall will follow the service. All are welcome.

Born Mattie Pearce on February 24, 1918 near Oak Hill, Kansas, she was the loving wife of the late Lyle Dunn and the loving mother of Roger Dunn of Alturas, CA; Shirley Tonn and husband Ray of Sunnyvale, CA and the late Beverly Brown and her husband Ron. She is survived by two granddaughters Shauna of Plano, Texas and Aimee of Chicago, Illinois, two grandsons Travis and Trevor of Sunnyvale, CA and two great-granddaughters.

Mattie moved to Alturas, CA in 1947, with Lyle and their daughter Shirley. She was a member of the Federated Community Church and a teacher for 37 years. Most of her years of teaching were in Alturas. She taught first grade for many of those years with a few years teaching the fourth grade until she retired in 1981. Mattie taught the children of her former students. After she retired, she was an active volunteer for many years, helping with the monthly birthday parties for the residents at Warnerview Convalescent Hospital at Modoc Medical Center. She loved to read and hand-quilted many beautiful quilts. She considered her many friends at the Senior Center and church as her extended family. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Modoc Senior Center at 906 West Fourth Street, Alturas, CA 96101 or the Federated Community Church of Alturas at 307 E. First Street, Alturas.

Eleanor 'Ellie' Glass

A memorial service for former educator and Alturas resident, Eleanor "Ellie" Glass, will be held at Faith Baptist Church, Carlos and West Streets, Alturas on Saturday, March 15 at 10:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to share their thoughts and stories about Ellie. A potluck fellowship lunch will be served after the service.

Mrs. Glass, 74, died in Spokane, WA February 29, 2008. She is survived by her husband James Glass, sister Margaret Mueller, brother-in-law Alvin Mueller, daughters Deborah Glass and Marie McMichael, and son-in-law Richard McMichael.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Healing Rooms Ministries, 112 E. First Avenue, Spokane, WA 99202. Note "Ellie Glass" on the memo line of your check.

Sports

Spring sports on tap

Modoc's baseball team is set to start at Tulelake March 14 and has Lakeview at home March 18. Modoc softball opens with the Lassen Tournament March 14-15 n Susanville and has Lakeview at home March 18.
Both teams start Shasta Cascade League play here March 21 against Trinity.

Modoc's golf team heads to Eagle Point today and again on March 18.

Track gets off to a slow start with its first run at the Mt. Shasta Time Trials April 3.

Modoc youth wrestling results

Hundreds of young wrestlers from throughout the region competed at the Modoc Youth Wrestling Tournament last weekend in Alturas.

The following Modoc wrestlers took first place: Patric Bell, Trent McQuarrie, Riley Larranaga and Alex Valencia and all of the under six age wrestlers.

Second places went to: Brandon Hays, Jeffrey Tifany, Jess Picotte, Justin Valena, Austin Kresge, Jacob Cruse, Wyatt Valena (2), Riley Larranaga, Zack McCaffery, and Marlena Torres.

Third places were earned by: Brandon Hays, Josh Vierria, Trevor Schluter, Zack Bickford, Fernando Acala, Justin Valena, Trent McQuarrie, Austin Carreker, Jarrett Royce, and Alex Valencia.

Coming in fourth were: Wade Schluter, Wyat Van Slyke, Jesse Holloway, Ben Correa, Kyle Royce, Tyler Ewing, Albrecht Chantz and Ethan Dunn.

March 20, 2008

News

Water picture looks good in high country

While February turned out to be a drier month than normal and March is copying that pattern so far, the snow depths in the mountains of Modoc are very healthy.

Precipitation in February was just .57 inches, well below the 1.27 inch average. So far in March, just .40 inches of precipitation has been measured, well below the average to date of .89 inches and well behind the monthly average of 1.38 inches. Recent snow storms, however, have added to the total snow accumulation.

Once local rancher told the Record Tuesday that pastures in the Likely area are pretty dry. In addition, he said the harsh winter, especially the bitter cold January, coupled with a shorter than normal hay season last year has strained the hay supply locally. He said more March and April precipitation would be welcome.

The U.S. Forest Service will do its next formal snow survey at the end of this month, but SNOTEL (electronic monitoring systems) reading are available daily in specific areas.

According to the SNOTEL reading for March 18, Cedar Pass had a snow depth of 49.9 inches with a water content of 17.5 inches. That compares to the U.S. Forest Service January 31 survey showing, Cedar Pass had 42.2 inches of snow, containing 10.9 inches of water. That was 22 percent above the long-term average of 34.7 inches.

The Cedar Pass SNOTEL snow depth increased from 43.4 inches on March 12, to 52.1 inches March 15 and settled at 49.3 inches March 18.

The SNOTEL (automated sensor operated by NRCS) measurement for Cedar Pass at 7100 feet elevation showed 59.5 inches of snow Feb. 4, containing 13.9 inches of water.

On Adin Pass for March 18, the SNOTEL measurement showed 39.7 inches of snow containing 13.6 inches of water. On March 12, 38.8 inches of snow was measured and on March 16 there was 42.2 inches. The Feb. 4 SNOTEL measurement on Adin Pass showed 57.8 inches of snow with 13.1 inches of water at 6,200 feet elevation.

Adin Mountain's Sweagert Flat Forest Srevice snow survey showed 37.4 inches of snow containing 8.7 inches of water Jan. 28

Bidwell Mountain's SNOTEL sensor showed 66.8 inches of snow March 18, with 23.2 inches of water. That area had 80.4 inches of snow with 17.5 inches at 7,000 feet Feb 4.

Out of District GOP jumping in District 4 race

Out-of-District Republicans are jumping into the race to fill the seat of 4th District U.S. Congressman John Doolittle, who is choosing to retire after this term.

Neither of the top two GOP hopefuls lives in the 4th District. Doug Ose, who was in Alturas last weekend to campaign, is from Sacramento and Tom McClintock, who will be in town Friday, is a State Senator from Thousand Oaks.

The probable Democratic challenger is retried U.S. Air Force Lt. Colonel Charlie Brown, of Roseville, who narrowly lost to Doolittle in 2006, 46 percent to 43 percent. Brown does live in the district.
"District four residents know that Washington is broken, and that career politicians are the problem. And we know that the change and solutions our country needs will not come by electing the same career politicians to sit in different chairs." Brown said. "I believe we need a new direction in the fourth district, not another opportunistic career politician who needs driving directions just to find our district."

Brown said there is a contrast for the voters. "From our side, a quest to bring people of all political stripes together in pursuit of real solutions. On the other side, a desperate attempt to hold onto partisan political power and preserve a status quo that has already placed our nation's security, our economy, and our children's future at risk. Only one approach offers a change from John Doolittle and the politics of the past. Only one approach is capable of producing results that serve people, not political parties or special interests. We are very much looking forward to the debate that lies ahead."
The Republicans and Democratic voters will pick their candidates in the June 3 Primary, and the general election for that office will be in November.

Local races are also coming up in the June 3 Primary.

The County Supervisor seats of District II's Mike Dunn, District III's Patricia Cantrall and District IV's Shorty Crabtree are all being challenged this year.

Dunn will face off against Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock.
Cantrall is being challenged by Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley.

Challengers to District Four's Crabtree are Ron McCullough and Jim Wills.

There will be no election required for the Alturas City Council seats of John Schreiber, Cheryl Nelson and George Andreasen. Nelson and Schreiber will be seated another term and Alturas businessman Bobby Ray will replace Andreasen. Since there were three seats open and only three candidates filed, no election was necessary.

Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker will also be seated for another four-year term, as she was not challenged.

DA cites case where medical pot defense fails first test

Modoc County District Attorney Gary Woolverton said that a medicinal marijuana defense in a case involving Roy Staton Carroll failed to meet the legal test in a preliminary hearing March 10.

Carroll, age 44, was arrested by the Modoc County Drug Task Force August 10, 2007, was arraigned August 14 and was released on his own recognizance. The preliminary hearing was continued several times but was ultimately held last week on three felony drug counts of possession of marijuana for sale; cultivation of marijuana and possession of more than 28.5 grams of marijuana.

The magistrate hearing the case held that Carroll would be bound over for trial on counts one and two, but dismissed count three dealing with possession of more than 28.5 grams of marijuana.

According to Woolverton, the magistrate ruled that there was less than 28.5 grams of "processed" marijuana seized by the Task Force.

"The defendant's medical marijuana defense failed," Woolverton said. "The magistrate ruled that the defendant (Carroll) had not sustained his burden of establishing the necessary elements and factors to assert a medical marijuana defense."

Woolverton has filed a motion asking to reinstate count three at the pre-trial conference April 1, 1:30 p.m. He said the magistrate should take into account not only the processed marijuana found by the Task Force, but also the growing marijuana.

"California law supports the proposition that marijuana means all or part of the cannabis sativa plant, whether growing or not, including the seeds and resin extracted from any part of the plant," sad Woolverton. "When the Task Force searched the Carroll property, they found 23 growing marijuana plants that varied in height from one foot to three feet. When these are taken into account, the marijuana exceeded 28.5 grams by several times."

Debby Yamagiwa selected as new Alturas Postmaster

On Saturday, March 15, 2008, Debby Yamagiwa officially began her position as the new Postmaster for the United States Postal Service Alturas Post Office. She will be sworn in within the next two to three weeks.

"I've wanted this position for a long time, but never thought it could happen. This was the first time that I could apply and they (USPS) would accept me," Yamagiwa told the Record this week. "Normally and most always in the past, someone who is already a postmaster somewhere else, is transferred in to fill this job."

Having served as "Officer in Charge" four times at the Alturas office, during long stints and many months of waiting for replacement Postmasters to arrive, Yamagiwa is elated to be named to the position left vacant at the end of October 2007, by the relocation of former Alturas Postmaster Doug Taylor to Missouri. Taylor's appointment as Alturas Postmaster without previous postmaster experience, was also an exception, she noted.

Yamagiwa's tie to the USPS started "on a fluke," when she was tired of landing seasonal-only work related to her Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management from Humboldt State. She lived in Eureka for seven years. After taking the Postal test, she was hired right away as a part time flexible (PTF) clerk in 1987 in Independence, CA in Owens Valley near Bishop, where she grew up.

"I loved it right from the start, and thought some day I would like to be a Postmaster," she admitted. She moved to Alturas in 1989, when her children were ages one and three, and started work at the Alturas Post Office in 1990. Trainings and working as Officer in Charge at Tulelake and Alturas helped qualify her for her current status. She had considered relocating and applying for other USPS positions, but she credits her children who "put their foot down" and didn't want to leave Alturas. "They loved it here, so I said I would stay until they had graduated from high school," she said. "I'm glad I stayed and I met a wonderful man."

She was introduced to that "wonderful man" named Marty Yamagiwa, by her coworker Becky Barry. Both Marty and Debby had much in common and both had earned the same degree from Humboldt, three years apart, but never knew one another. They were married and blended their families.

Yamagiwa also has praise for the "incredible staff" at the Alturas Post Office. "Their teamwork has been tremendous during some very stressful times, like Christmas when we were loaded with mail and down by three and four employees; just stretched to the max."

"As far as our customers go, we want to thank them for their patience for so many months. When there have been long lines, especially at Christmas, there were very few times we heard any griping from them. It was so nice of the public to be understanding of the situation and know we were and are trying to do the best we can. We appreciate their understanding," said Yamagiwa. The office currently has three full time and three PTF positions, not including highway contract route drivers.

"What's going on now as far as route adjustments and deliveries go, will continue. Customers have noticed the change of mail delivery times on some of the routes from late afternoon, to sometimes early," she explained. Postal management has mandated (not local management) the route adjustments, based on studies of a typical mail load week. The carriers have been timed for how much they can deliver during a given time frame. "We have to watch our overtime and maximize the full time routes. In order to achieve that, we pivot portions of those routes to our shorter route, and as a result mail delivery may be at a different time during that day," the new postmaster explained.

Things are moving in the right direction with Spring. A new employee has been hired and started training this week. "Hopefully we'll hire another PTF, but there are no figures as to when," said Yamagiwa. "But, after such tough months for all of us at this office, things are finally looking up."
An independent federal agency, the U.S. Postal Service relies on the sale of postage, products and services to pay for operating expenses, not tax dollars.

Hospital concerned about state Medi-Cal cut

Just when the county thought things were starting to turn around at Modoc Medical Center, the state budget crunch tosses a curve.

Interim MMC Chief Executive Office Jim Sato told the Board of Supervisors Tuesday that the state legislature had passed a resolution to reduce Medi-Cal payments to county hospitals by 10 percent, effective July 1. According to Sato, that cut would mean a $600,000 annual loss to MMC – pretty much offsetting what a Critical Access Hospital designation would bring into the hospital, about $700,000.

Sato said that California already pays hospitals about 25 percent less than the national average for Medi-Cal patient services.

'This 10 percent cut is obviously a severe blow to all rural hospitals with a high percentage of Medi-Cal patients, and has the potential to close hospitals," said Lu Miller, of the Save Our Hospital Committee. "We urge you to write to our state representatives asking him to reverse this resolution."
Letters should be sent to Senator David Cox, David Cox, 2140 Professional Dr. Suite 140, Roseville, Ca. 95661; and State Assembly: Doug LaMalfa, State Capitol, P.O. Box 942849, Sacramento, Ca. 94249-0001

Obituaries:

Luella 'Lue' Larsen

Luella "Lue" Larsen, 83, of Baker City passed away March 9, 2008 at St. Elizabeth Care Center with her daughter Gayle and compassionate staff members at her side. Numerous phone calls were received from other family members expressing their love for her. A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

She was born Luella June Brainard on July 31, 1924 in Englewood, California to Albert and Bessie Dunson Brainard. She was the youngest of three children growing op in Long Beach, CA. She married Kent Larsen, January 23, 1943 in San Antonio, Texas while he was in the Army Air Corps. They had four children, Sandra, Gayle, Jeff and Coreen.

Kent and Lue lived in numerous places before moving to Alturas, California in 1951, where he managed the Modoc County Title Company for many years. Lue was well known for her excellent organizational and entertaining skills, assisting her husband with the social aspects of his business. Although for a short time she enjoyed managing the museum in Alturas, her priority was her family. They always came first in her life.

After Kent's retirement, they moved to Cottonwood, Ca. He passed away September 3, 1989. For a while she lived primarily alone, but eventually, due to health problems, she sold their home and moved in with her daughter Coreen just outside of Cottonwood. Sometime later they relocated to Red Bluff, Ca. The end of April 2003, she moved to Settler's Park in Baker City, Oregon to be near her daughter Gayle.

Surviving family are her daughter Gayle and husband Rick Hack of Baker City, Oregon, son Jeff and wife Stacey Larsen of Alturas, California, and daughter Coreen Griffin of Coming, California. Grandchildren include Shannon Miley and son Noah of Orland, CA, Gregg Miley of Chico, CA, Tiffani Miley and sons Ian and Josh of Kelso, WA, Jami and Adam Thibodeau and daughters Jordan and Tristan and son Logan of Redding, CA, Shani Kerr of Red Bluff, CA, and C.J. and Alexandra Griffin of Corning, CA. Lue's sister Betty Woodworth resides in Coarsegold, CA and her sister in law Alexia Hardt lives in Klamath Falls, OR. There are numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter Sandra Miley and her brother Al Brainard.
Throughout the years she enjoyed camping, traveling, entertaining friends and family, gardening, many animals, music and singing, card games, bingo and chocolate. Socializing and meeting new people, especially children, was a special joy for her. Lue was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend who touched the lives of everyone she met with her humor and caring ways. He was well loved by all and will be truly missed.

Gray's West & Company Pioneer Chapel is handling arrangements, 1500 Dewey Avenue, Baker City, OR 97814.

Elizabeth 'Betty Lou' Dalton Byrne Shirley

Two weeks after celebrating her 82nd birthday, Elizabeth Louise "Betty Lou" Dalton Byrne Shirley, passed away in Malin, Oregon on March 17, 2008. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. in St. Augustine's Catholic Church in Merrill on Monday, March 24, 2008. Interment will follow at Malin Community Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Augustine's Church, P.O. Box 388, Merrill, Oregon 97633.

She is survived by her husband, Robert K. Shirley, her brother, William C. Dalton of Klamath Falls, five children and seven grandchildren. 

Betty Lou was born March 2, 1926 in Klamath Falls, Oregon to William Carson Dalton and Elizabeth Evelyn Sullivan, and attended school in Malin, Oregon.  She went to Dominican High School and Dominican College in San Rafael, before her marriage to Robert "Bob" Anthony Byrne on August 21, 1946.  They met in Klamath Falls, where Bob was recovering from a tropical disease acquired while he was with the Marines in the South Pacific.

Betty Lou and Bob had five children: Libby, who has two sons, Michael and Thomas; Bob, who with his wife Cory has three children, Melissa, Gwen and Kaitlyn; Michael, who with his wife Beverly, has two children, Matthew and Brianna; Patricia; and Dan who is married to Geri.

While her children were young, Betty Lou was active in the community as a Sunday school teacher, Girl Scout leader and a member of the Modoc County Cowbelles. She was the organist for Holy Cross Catholic Church in Tulelake for many years.

She contributed to the activities of the family cattle ranch by preparing lunches for the branding crews, cooking for the haying crews at the Steele Swamp Ranch, and organizing numerous large events on the ranch for visiting officials and dignitaries.

After the death of her husband in 1988, Betty Lou returned to college at California State University, Chico.  She finished her BA degree  in Northeastern California: Its Land and People in 1993. While studying in Chico, she met Robert K. Shirley, who was a widower and a native of Chico.They married Jan.9,1993. She and Bob then divided their time between Chico and the family ranch near Malin.
Betty Lou had a great interest and love for the Modoc area.  In 1974, she was a founding member of the Modoc County Historical Society and wrote several articles for the Journal of the Modoc County Historical Society, particularly the 1983 and 1996 issues.  She also served on the Board of the Shaw Historical Library in Klamath Falls.  She was active in the Modoc Cowbelles. In 1979, she was Interstate CowBelle chairman, working with CowBelles in six northern California counties and three southern Oregon counties to produce beef promotion films for television.  In 1982, she was named CowBelle of the Year.  She later served as Northern Director for the California Cattle Women and served as Legislation chair from 1995-98.  She served as Parliamentarian twice, 1993-94 and 1999-2000. Betty Lou was recognized for her service to church and community in 1984, when she was named alumna of the year at her high school, Dominican in San Rafael.

In her later years, she stayed on the family ranch where she had lived as a child. In the past year, she was cared for at Joanne's Classic Home Care in Malin. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Joanne's for their wonderful care of Betty Lou.

Laura L. Kouma

Laura L. Kouma passed away at a care facility in Alturas, CA, on March 14, 2008. She was 69.
A celebration of Laura's life will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2008, at 10 a.m. at Eternal Hills Chapel. Military honors will be provided by the Veterans of Foreign Warsand the Marine Corps League. Cremation will be at Eternal Hills Crematory.

Laura was born on Dec. 10, 1938, in Benton, Ark., to William and Ocia (Wallace) Glenn. She was raised and attended school there.

Laura entered the U.S. Army and served in the WAC program from 1956 to 1957. Following that, she married Fred Kouma in 1957. They lived in Sacramento, CA, where they owned and operated a scrap metal business for several years.

Laura moved to Tulelake, CA, in 2005.

She enjoyed reading, especially Westerns, camping, fishing and going to yard sales.

She was caring and loyal and will be missed by her family.

Survivors include her husband Fred of Stockton, Calif.; sons Eddy Glenn of Arkansas and Henry Nickles of Tulelake; daughter June Bennett of Arkansas; grandchildren Laura Girtman and her husband Andrew of Tulelake, Katrina Lee and her husband Nick of Tulelake, Malissa Nichols of Yreka, Calif.; great-grandchildren Ashley, Brooke, Alissa, Chelsey, Kieley, Violet, Zachary and Andrea; sisters Lena Holdridge of Texas and Arkie Evans and Rosie Ammons, both of Arkansas; brothers Curtis Glenn, Dennis Glenn, Gann Glenn and James Glenn, all of Arkansas.

She was preceded in death by two great-granddaughters Alisha and Brianna; brother Henry Glenn; and three infant siblings, who died at birth.

Eternal Hills Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Sports

Braves baseball opens with three losses

Modoc's young varsity baseball team started the season with three losses – to Tulelake 10-0; and to Lakeview 15-2 and 10-7.

In the opening game against Tulelake, the Braves had to battle the Honkers as well as blowing snow and the second game of the double-header was postponed.
Tulelake got up 4-0 in the first and led 8-0 in the fifth before adding two in the sixth. Trent Schmidt got the loss, going three innings, allowing seven runs, four hits and walked 11. James Budmark led the offense going two-for-two at the plate.

Modoc Coach Tim MacDonnell said the team is young, but he saw some good things against Tulelake and is concentrating on reducing the number of walks.
Lakeview took a 5-2 lead in the fourth inning and led 9-2 in the fifth, but added six runs in the sixth for the 15-2 win. Justin Estes got the loss, going three innings, allowing five hits and only walked one. Web Dunn went one-for-two at the plate and Irvine Chacon was one-for-three.

The Braves mounted a comeback in the second game against Lakeview after trailing 4-0 in the second inning. Lakeview took a 6-3 lead in the fourth and added three in the sixth and one in the seventh for 10. The Braves scored four runs in the seventh, but lost 10-7.

Dunn went three-for-four, Dee Hunsaker was two-for-three and Schmidt went tow-for-three.

"The kids have a lot of heart and they put together a good rally at the end of the game to give us a chance," said MacDonnell. "They've shown a great deal of improvement."

Schmidt got the loss, going three innings, allowing five hits and walking a pair.

Modoc's golf team second at Eagle Point

Modoc's golf team, trying to extend its Shasta Cascade League championship string to eight straight, took second March 13 at Eagle Point Golf Course in a match against Weed, Trinity, Mt. Shasta Fall River and Etna.

Weed, the early favorite in league, won the match with a team score of 421. Modoc shot 457, Mt. Shasta 501, Fall River 576, Trinity 596, and Etna 708.
Scott Lassen, of Weed, won the individual shootout with a 74 while Modoc's Daniel Morgan was second with an 84. Modoc's Jeff Solomon shot 86 for fifth, Josue Madrigal shot 90 for eighth and Drew Morgan shot 92 for ninth. Jeff Barclay shot a 105 and Jack Callaghan shot 121.

The golf team also includes Alex Moreo, Dejah Montague, and Justin Lee. The team is coach by Harold Montague.

"I was very pleased with how both Daniel and Drew Morgan played," Montague said. "Although they struggled, I am confident that Solomon, Madrigal and Barclay will perform better as the season progresses. We do know that Weed is the pre-season favorite; Mt. Shasta will have a strong team as well and we will have to play very well to be competitive with those two teams."
Modoc finished behind Foothill, March 18 at Eagle Point Golf Course.

Foothill's team shot 398 and Modoc 414. Shasta shot 433, Ashland shot 443, Henley 453, and Los Molinos 553.

Solomon led Modoc with a 75, Daniel Morgan shot 79, Madrigal had an 83, Barclay an 88, Drew Morgan an 89 and Moreo a 136.

Modoc travels to Trinity today for another SCL match and will face Foothill and Portola in a non-league match here at Arrowhead April 1.

Spring sports on tap

Modoc's baseball team and softball teams will start Shasta Cascade League play with Trinity, here March 21. Games are set to start at 2 p.m.

Modoc's golf team is at Trinity today and will host Foothill and Portola at Arrowhead April 1.

Track has its first run at the Mt. Shasta Time Trials April 3.

 

March 27th, 2008

News

DA objects to bail reduction in weapons case

Modoc County District Attorney Gary Woolverton has stressed his disagreement with a bail reduction in the weapons case against Glenn Edward Daley.

The Modoc Sheriff's Department arrested Daley, known locally by some as "Bunker Bob" at his California Pines high hill unit home in late November.

He was booked into the Modoc County Jail with bail set at $1 million.

Last Tuesday, Modoc Superior Court Judge Fritz Barclay agreed to a defense request to reduce the bail amount to $100,000. Woolverton objected to that decision and filed a motion to reconsider. On Thursday, Barclay ruled against Woolverton and set bail at $100,000. Subsequently, Daley made bail and was released from the Modoc County Jail.

Woolverton said the courts apparently found that Daley's bail was excessive, especially when balanced against the bail set for Robert Chad Haralson, the suspect in the Betty Lou Parks murder case, where bail was set at $500,000. Haralson remains in custody.

The Daley case is set for pre-preliminary hearing on April 1.

Modoc Sheriff Mark Gentry said Daley, age 72, was arrested on a warrant and charged with being a felon in possession of firearms, possession of machine guns, silencer, hand grenade, armor-piercing ammunition, ammunition in excess of .60 caliber, sawed off shotguns, assault rifle, tracer ammunition, body armor, detonation cord, material to make an explosive device, and a stun gun, among other items.
Daley was arrested Nov. 16 at the California Pines Lodge. Gentry said Daley had allegedly made threats to shoot at least two Sheriff's Deputies in the past.

Gentry said the Shasta County Ordinance Disposal Team was contacted to dispose of the grenade as well as search the Daley property for any other explosive devices or booby traps. They didn't find any other explosives but did destroy some detonation wire and material.

According to the Sheriff, weapons and ammunition appeared to have been placed strategically throughout the Daley property. There was between 4,000 and 5,000 rounds of ammunition located.

Opposition to motocross forces change in location

A homeowner in Alturas has voiced opposition to the proposed July 11-13 motocross races at the Mill Site, forcing the organizers to move the event to the Modoc County Fairgrounds.
Modoc Motorsports Association spokesperson, Rendy Rees, said while the association is disappointed with the situation, the Modoc Fair Board has been supportive of the change.

The person who voiced a complaint on the Mill site races, lives about eight tenths of a mile from the site, which is just north of the Amphitheater. The are no homes within a half-mile of the site and the Alturas Airport is situated between the last homes on Fourth Street and the proposed race site, which is adjacent to the east fence of the old lumber mill.

The Alturas City Council had originally approved of the race unanimously, since it would have been on city land. The Council generally still supports the motocross concept, but organizers, because of potential fee and study costs and a limited timeframe, were forced to move this race to the Fairgrounds.

According to Modoc County Planner Kim Hunter, the homeowner contends that even one-time event would be subject to the California Environmental Quality Act. County Counsel John Kinney advised Hunter that the race would be subject to CEQA.

"There are simply going to be environmental impacts that will have to be evaluated," Hunters said.
Jessie Berner is expected to present her opposition arguments to the City Council at its April 8 meeting.

When an application, even for an Administrative Permit, for the race is submitted, Hunter said a $600 charge for the environmental fee would be required and she could not waive that fee. In addition, she said the CEQA documentation couldn't be filed without the California Fish and Game fee of $1,896.75.

"We're committed to this project, and we are going to take the high road," said Rees. "We have a lot of interest locally from riders as well as spectators and this is a good opportunity to provide something for our youth."

Reese said the MMA will continue to seek a location for further races, but the time limits for this race forced the relocation.

Next hearing in Parks case May 6

The next hearing in the Betty Lou Parks murder case has been set for May 6, following a pre-trial conference last week.

Robert Chad Haralson, age 32, the suspect in the 1992 homicide remains in custody in the Modoc County Jail with bail set at $500,000.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested Haralson May 25 in Casper, Wyoming. Modoc had issued an arrest warrant in late April for Haralson after the initial suspect in the case, Christopher Bradbury, accepted a plea bargain and identified him as the person who killed Parks.

As a part of the plea deal, the murder charge was dropped, and Bradbury pled guilty to an accessory after the fact charge. Bradbury must identify and testify against Haralson.

Parks, who had just graduated from Modoc Middle School, was reported missing in June 1992 and her remains were found by a hiker at a remote location in Modoc Estates in May 1993.

The case languished for more than a decade in the Modoc County Sheriff's Office before finally being turned over to the Department of Justice cold case investigator. That investigation led to the arrest of Bradbury in Shasta County.

Haralson, who was 17 and an Alturas resident at the time of the crime, has entered a not guilty plea. He will be tried as an adult. John Webster of Redding, who was appointed by the court, is representing him.

Haralson was bound over the trial following a preliminary hearing held in Alturas Feb. 13-15. The hearing was held to determine whether or not to try Haralson for the crime.

Squirrel hunters take aim for weekend

"Spring has sprung" in Surprise Valley and greening alfalfa fields promise to draw a record number of hunters and plinkers to the area over the weekend when the Surprise Valley Chamber of Commerce hosts its 18th Annual Squirrel Roundup on Saturday, March 29.

Many locals enjoy the parade of unique squirrel hunting rigs that herald spring as reliably as bubbling creeks and the first blooms on locust trees. Decked out with elaborate shooting platforms, comfortable lounge chairs, even full-service snack bars, the distinctive vehicles descend early on area pastures pocked with squirrel mounds and teeming with darting rodents.

Eager hunters are a force to be reckoned with, and savvy locals have learned to be on guard, keeping pets and small children close to home when bullets fly. No such concerns discourage circling hawks, eagles and other birds eagerly awaiting an easy meal.

Saturday's event begins shortly after dawn for registered contestants who will fan out onto ranches from Fort Bidwell to the Nevada border south of Eagleville. Though hunters no longer collect tails to win prizes, their efforts to thin the hordes of Belding ground squirrels, also known as "sage rats" or "bobby squirrels", are welcomed by landowners plagued by the proliferate varmints.

Many registered hunters have established warm relationships with local ranchers down through the years and are invited to head straight to their familiar stations. Newcomers receive some help from chamber members though ranchers with large fields may find a participant knocking at their door, seeking permission to park nearby for the day. 

After a long day of hits and misses, hunters and their hosts will gather at the Four Seasons building at the fairgrounds. Social hour begins this year 5:30 PM, followed by a hearty dinner, the raffling of a pile of door prizes, and a silent auction.

Business owners, chamber members, and artisans have generously contributed items or services for the silent auction which is a highlight for visitors and locals alike. While fierce but friendly bidding wars often break out, everyone likes the idea their contributions support the chamber's many annual activities.

The Squirrel Roundup brings in a large portion of funds the chamber uses primarily for youth and community activities during the year. It is chaired by Fort Bidwell's John Drew. His committee has also designed commemorative hats, mugs and a special keepsake tee shirt that will available at the event.

This year, the chamber has invested in a premium Savage 17 Caliber rifle with a high quality scope from the Belligerent Duck in Alturas to be raffled off Saturday night to one lucky person present. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. "Anyone who wants to get in on the raffle can call me for tickets", said Drew who can be reached at 279-2050.

Rain, snow or sunshine, chamber chefs will have the outdoor fires hot to barbecue their famous chicken and steaks. Diana Milton will oversee the meal, making sure no one leaves the valley hungry after a long day in the fields.

On Saturday, those taking a break from the "squirrel wars" will have an opportunity to tour the back streets and historic sites of Cedarville in a horse-drawn wagon driven by Darice Massey, co-owner of Riders of the Sage guide service. Those who are interested in scheduling a tour should call Massey at 279-2420.

For more information on the Roundup or other activities planned for Saturday, please call the chamber office at 279-2001.

Hospital Committee still figuring out tax level

The Save Our Hospital Committee is currently defining the boundaries of a proposed hospital district, as well as just what the assessment to property owners will be.

According to SOH's Lau Miller, a Modoc Medical Center five-year-financial plan is currently being done and is expected to be complete by mid-to-late April. That will have to be completed before the application to form a Special District can be submitted to the Local Agency Formation Commission, LAFCO.

Miller said once that five-year plan is done; the actual financial needs of the hospital can be decided for a health care district.

The SOH's goal is to place the formation of a Special Hospital District and an accompanying assessment question on the November General Election Ballot. The formation of the district requires a simple majority to pass, however, the tax issue must receive a two-thirds super majority vote for approval.

According to the SOH, the total amount of the special assessment collected will be based upon the total number of unique property owners within the boundaries of the healthcare district multiplied by the amount of the tax. According to SOH, there are 15,742 unique property owners in the proposed district, and over 13,000 do not actually live in Modoc - predominantly from California Pines.
Miller said once the level of the hospital assessment is determined - with very tentative estimates between $100 to $200 per property owner - it will be well publicized.

In other hospital news, the Modoc County Board of Supervisors has scheduled interviews this afternoon for a new Chief Executive Officer.

Sports

Trinity crushes Braves in league opener

The Trinity Wolves used a 12-run seventh inning to crush the Modoc Braves in the Shasta Cascade League opener here last Friday, 21-7. Modoc goes into Spring Break with a 0-5 record.

Trinity led 3-0 in the first and 7-0 in the third, and went into that last inning leading 9-6. Modoc had scored a pair in the fourth and four in the sixth.
The seventh inning was ugly, with hits, errors and walks aiding Trinity.
Trent Schmidt got the loss, giving up 21 runs, 16 hits, walking six and fanning 10.

For Modoc, Collyn Server went three-for-three at the plate, John Hughes was three-for five, James Budmark and Justin Estes went two-for-three and Irvend Chacon was two-for-four.

Trinity also won the second game of the doublebill 14-3. The Wolves led 3-0 in the second and the Braves tied it at 3-3 in the third. Trinity added four in the fifth, one in the sixth and six in the seventh.

Estes got the loss, going three innings, allowing three runs on four hits and Hughes relieved, pitching the last three innings, allowing 11 runs on 11 hits.
Dee Hunsaker as one-for-two, Budmark, Ty Hammerness, Estes, Schmidt and Hughes each went one-for-three.

According to coach Tim MacDonnell, Estes started well on the mound in the second game but was forced to leave after an injury to his hand. He said the Braves were in both games, but just couldn't get the breaks when they counted.

Modoc girls start 3-2

Modoc's softball team opened the season going three and two, and opening the Shasta Cascade League with a pair of wins against Trinity last Friday.

In the first game, Modoc went up 2-1 in the fourth and added three in the sixth for the 5-3 win. Trinity put up two in the sixth.

Emily Conner and Brynn Juanarena led the hitting going two-for-three each. Sarah Gibbons and Carly Potter were one-for-three. Conner got the win, fanning 14.

Modoc won the second game 6-3, responding to a three run Wolves' first inning with five of their own. Modoc added one run in the second.
Amanda Fain and Sami Schmidt went to-for-three and Sarah Catania was two-for-four. Conner got the win, fanning 11 and walking one.

Thinclads get meet under belts

Modoc's thinclads have been running in the mud and last week had a chance to venture to Mt. Shasta to participate in a time trial event to measure early season successes.

Junior Mikele Funk ran the 1600 meters, 400 meters and her specialty, the 800, against the Mt. Shasta gang, breaking up the Bears lock on the first five spots by grabbing second in all three events. Funk's time was in the 800 was 2:49.
Rachel Field and little sister Rebecca Field dominated the girl's shot and discus with Rachel Field tossing 28'8" to win the shot and hitting 84' to win the discus. Sophomore Rebecca Field participated in the varsity division and placed second and third.

Newcomer Jessica Kresge placed first in the tough 300 meter hurdles and 200 meters, while taking a fourth after falling while leading in the 110 meter hurdles.
On the boy's side, Cain Madrigal and Newmie Wilson both led the Braves to strong performances. Wilson took second in the discus and third in the shot, in his first competition in California.

Full results are expected by next week, both boys and girls expected to participate in the Hornet Invitational on April 5th include, Wilson, Madrigal, Kristi Zendajas, Kresge, Cam Hall, Neal Mohr, Jacob Kettler, Rachel and Rebecca Field as well as others.

Young grapplers do well in Burney

A dozen Modoc Youth Wrestlers took first places in the Burney invitational last weekend.

Individual champions were: Hunter Williams, Conner Fisher, Dillon Valencia, Jake Fields, Christian Givan, Brett Waterman, Tucker Lowrey, Chance Galvin, Alex Valencia, Brandon Hays, Ethan Dunn and Patrick Bell.

The following kids took second place: Chantz Albrecht, Zack Bickford, Matt Froemine, Zack McCaffrey, Riley Larranaga (2), and Trent McQuarrie (2).
Third places went to: Garrett Royce, Wade Schulter, Austin Kresge, Fernando Aleale, Wyatt Valena, Jake Cruse, Austin Carreker, and Ben Correa.
In fourth pace were: Jeff Tiffany, Josh Vierria, Lane Galvin and Kyle Royce.

April 3, 2008

News

Snow levels above average

Snow surveys taken by the U.S. Forest Service the last of March and first of April show healthy levels of both snow and water content in Modoc.

The Adin Mountain Snow survey was taken March 31, with snow depth at 33.7 inches, compared to the long term average of 33.4 inches, Water content was 13.7 inches, compared to the long term average of 12.7 inches.

Adin Mountain's Sweagert Flat snow survey showed 37.4 inches of snow containing 8.7 inches of water on Jan. 28.

The Blue Lake Ranch snow survey on April 1 showed snow depth of 27.8 inches, above the long term average of 27.4 inches. The area showed water content of 11.3 inches, compared to the long-term average of 10 inches.

The reading at Blue Lake had 35.2 inches of snow containing 9.4 inches of water Jan. 30.
Cedar Pass measured 46.1 inches of snow April 1, compared to the average of 44.1 inches. The water content of that snowpack was 13.8 inches, below the long term average of 16.5 inches. Cedar Pass had 42.2 inches of snow on Jan. 31, containing 10.9 inches of water..

Firewood meeting set to explain the old growth issues

Modoc County is hosting another meeting on the new firewood cutting policy April 8. 7 p.m. in the Sheriff's Office conference room.

"The purpose of the meeting is to explain the new policy more fully and offer more explanation," said Sean Curtis, Modoc Resource Analyst. "We want to clear up any confusion. What's important for the woodcutters to know is we are the only forest left where you can go anywhere and cut wood. We have the best of both worlds, but it is going to take cooperation to keep it as it is." Curtis said there is a serious trade off in place here – in order to keep the woods open, cutters are going to have to follow the new policy and be self-policing in a lot of ways. If the woodcutters don't cooperate, there's always a chance the fuelwood cutting programs will be much tighter and much more restrictive to certain areas.

One of the big issues is not cutting old growth juniper and next week's meeting will address how to better identify those trees.

The new annual schedule for woodcutting will be from May 1 to February 28. This will help protect wet roads and reduce rutting off roadways. New woodcutting permits will go on sale at Forest and Ranger District offices beginning April 15.

"The woodcutters have agreed to voluntarily avoid cutting old juniper trees," said Curtis. "Their ability to cut firewood across the forest was more important to them than cutting the big old trees. And we believe that's still the most important point here,"

"Each woodcutter needs to know how to distinguish between the old and young junipers," said Forest Supervisor Stan Sylva. "They should cut only young juniper trees."

Each permit holder will receive a handout on the characteristics of old Western juniper with photos of both old and young juniper.

"The age of a juniper tree has nothing to do with its size; it has more to do with form," Sylva said. "A young juniper will usually have a single trunk, smooth bark and a symmetrical pointed top. An old juniper, which may not be cut, will typically have a rounded top, more than one trunk or large low limbs; its trunk or trunks will be deeply furrowed and covered with red fibrous bark."

The Forest's new fuel wood policy will be available online soon at www.fs.fed.us/modoc/.

Hospital's increased annual loss explained by CEO

Modoc Medical Center had a loss of $1.2 million in the year 2006, and that ballooned to $2.8 million in 2007.

That $1.6 million increase in the financial deficit has caused more than a small amount of concern from local officials.

According to hospital interim Chief Executive Officer Jim Sato, three areas contributed to about $1.45 million of that loss and he explained that to the Save Our Hospital Committee and the Modoc Medical Center Advisory Committee in a document March 29.

"Modoc Medical Center got two sets of physicians to cover hospital services, with one set of physicians covering the emergency room and the patients staying overnight in the hospital," Sato said. "Another set of physicians covered the clinic and Warnerview. Prior to getting these two sets of physicians, one set of physicians was expected to cover the clinic, emergency room, inpatients and Warnerview. This led to burnout. The additional cost for this service was about $600,000." Sato also said that the hospital paid about $200,000 more in 2007 than in 2006 for recruitment fees, temporary help in accounting, physical therapy and medical records.

"Modoc Medical Center also paid about $680,000 more in registry costs for nurses and other staff," Sato said.

The registry employees are employed by agencies outside the hospital and are generally viewed as the "fly-in" staff. The cost is generally higher than staff nurses.

According to Sato's figures, MMC paid a total of $919,358 for registry services in 2006 and $1,598,414 in 2007.

Hospital debt rate slows in March

While Modoc Medical Center posted an increase to its county debt in March, the increase was less than in pervious months according to Modoc County Auditor Judi Stevens.

The hospital debt went up to $10,472,337 at the end of March from $10,423,955 at the end of February, an increase of $48,382. That compares to a debt of $10,254,168 at the end of January, an increase of $169,787. The increase in the debt level was substantially lower than the $458,084 increase in January.

The debt was $9,796,084 at the end of December. That's an increase of $458,084 for the month and an increase of $2,740,238 since January 2007.

The debt has increased since September 2005's $4,690,812 by a total of $5,781,2525.
.

Fighter pilots too low for law?

Last week fighter jets from Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls staged dogfight type maneuvers over the City of Alturas, including firing flares and creating a sonic boom.

While the fighter pilots have been performing these types of activities in the past, this time it prompted some complaints.

Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes called Kingsley and was told that the fighters are operating in two Military Operations Areas, Hart Mountain and Goose Lake. But the original officer he spoke with couldn't confirm whether the pilots were within the law. He was awaiting a call from another commanding officer.

A subsequent call to the Federal Aviation Administration cleared up the confusion. According to Barnes, the FAA regulations state that fighters must stay at least 1,000 feet above any populated area, 500 feet above non-populated areas and in no case should they have created the sonic boom. Further, Barnes said the combat maneuvers are not allowed at low levels over populated areas.
"We know that local people often like to watch the show," said Barnes. "But there are limits."
The FAA's concern, Barnes said, was safety.

Barnes said Lt. Col. Wes French, from Kingsley, said the jets can maneuver in their MOA, but not below 10,000 feet above sea level. That would put them over 5,000 feet above Alturas. He said he is checking into the issue.

Obituaries:

Rhea G. Pope

Rhea Geniveve Pope, an Alturas resident for almost 30 years, loved the people of the area and always thought Modoc was a little piece of Heaven. Mrs. Pope passed away on March 29, 2008 in Alturas, CA at the age of 97 years, twenty three days shy of her 98th birthday.

Born Rhea Moffitt in Seymour, Connecticut on April 20, 1910, she graduated from Seymour High School. On July 4, 1936, Rhea married Carleton L. Pope in New York and they made their first home in Oxford, Connecticut. She was a homemaker and very active in community services. The mother of three believed in staying active and also made time for her sports, starting a women's softball team, playing tennis, putting on plays, just to name a few things.

The family moved to California in 1951, due to their son Bruce's health problems. They bought a home in Sylmar where Rhea became president of the Women's Chamber of Commerce, won women of the year awards, produced the Miss Sylmar Pageant, staged plays, fashion shows, worked on the police force as a school crossing guard and was a playground supervisor for five years, plus stayed busy with PTA and accomplished a lot of good community work.

"Mom packed more into her life, than most people dream about," describes her daughter Nancy Weimann of Alturas.

In 1977, the Popes came up to California Pines with their daughter Nancy and son-in-law Bill Weimann and their two children. Being really special grandsons Brian and Alan, (Bruce's sons), traveled with them. They fell in love with Alturas, and moved up in 1978, along with their daughter Nancy and family. Rhea loved her grandchildren, great grandchildren and her one great-great grandson and was so proud of each one. Her grandson William C. "Bill" and wife Kim share Rhea and Carleton's July 4 anniversary, as Bill and Kim were married in a garden ceremony on the family's PW Ranch in Alturas on July 4, 1997, the date of Rhea and Carleton's 61st wedding anniversary.

Everyone loved Rhea and she loved everybody. After Carl died March 9, 1998, Rhea became ill and for the past few years Rhea lived at Warnerview Convalescent. The staff there were all wonderful to her and looked forward to seeing her sweet smile.

Mrs. Pope is survived by her daughter Nancy L. Weimann and husband William A. Weimann of Alturas, CA; grandson William C. Weimann and wife Kim of Alturas; great-grandsons, Jonathen Weimann, Nathan and Cody Book of Alturas; granddaughter Trudy Fuller and husband Brian of Klamath Falls, OR; great-grandsons, Cody Cavasso of Klamath Falls, OR and William (Willy) Cavasso of Klamath Falls, OR; Rhea's son Richard L. Pope and wife Carol of Michigan; grandsons Steven Pope of Michigan, Brian Pope and wife Mary of Michigan and their son Michael (Rhea's great-great grandson); grandson Alan Pope and wife Samantha of Florida; two sisters Dorothy Bond of Florida and Jean Moffitt of Florida. Rhea was loved by everyone and will be greatly missed.
Services will be private.

Contributions in Rhea's memory may be made to help support the Modoc Senior Citizens Center, 904 West Fourth Street, Alturas, CA 96101.

Doris June Robison

The cakes have all disappeared, but former Alturas resident Doris June Robison of Kamiah, ID, will long be remembered for her fabulous cake decorating skills and her love of creating specialty theme cakes, especially for children's parties. Mrs. Robison, 83, passed away March 12, 2008, in Kamiah, ID.

Doris was born on January 21, 1925, in Baxter Springs, Kansas to George and Flossie Arthur. She married Gerlin "Jerry" Robison on Nov. 8, 1942 in San Bruno, CA. The couple relocated to Alturas, CA when their daughter and young grandchildren were living in Alturas. The Robisons later relocated to Susanville. Then, in 1996, after her husband passed away, Mrs. Robinson relocated to Kamiah, ID. She was an avid reader, loved to bake and enjoyed knitting.

She is survived by her daughter Susan Hamilton of Montesano, WA; granddaughter Amber Gentry of Montesano, WA; grandson Luke Gentry, Seattle, WA; son Michael Robison (Denice) of Moscow, ID; grandson Brian Robison (Melanie), Florissant, MO; great-granddaughter Melaina Robison, Florissant, MO; son Toby Robison (Lois), Shasta Lake, CA; granddaughter Cara Quinn and family, Palo Cedro, CA; granddaughter Nicole Wasylychyn, Santa Cruz, CA. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Interment will be in Susanville, CA.

Barbara Lee Booth

Former Alturas resident Barbara Lee Booth, 68, of Alturas passed away of natural causes in Susanville, CA on March 31, 2008. Barbara worked for Modoc Work Activity Center in Alturas for a number of years. She had resided in Susanville where her daughter Terrie Christensen lives. Barbara was born in Wyoming. Her family plans to hold a memorial service in Alturas at a later date. Her obituary will be published at a later date. Information provided by Walton's Colonial Mortuary of Susanville, CA.

Richard Allen Maki

Richard Allen Maki, 57 passed away March 22, 2008 at his home is Lookout, CA.

Richard was born July 20, 1950 in Sacramento, CA.

He lived in Modoc County for 23 years.

Richard was in the Air Force for 4 years and worked for Big Valley Lumber Co., and was an Equipment Operator for 25 years. He loved fishing.

He is survived by daughters Sara Robbins of Burney, Amy Maki of Redding, sisters Linda McCord of Sacramento, Georgia Hooker of Rio Linda, CA, 2 grandchildren Evan Robbins and Lexi Robbins.
A graveside service was held March 29, 2008 at 10 a.m. at the Lookout Cemetery.

Pamela C. Bidwell


Pamela Cheryl Bidwell, 61, of Adin, CA passed away after a long illness on March 21, 2008 at her home in Adin.

She was born March 3, 1947 in Vallejo, CA, and had lived in Bieber until moving to Adin in 1991. Mrs. Bidwell was a bus driver with the Big Valley School District for 28 years.

She is survived by her husband Greg Bidwell of Adin, CA; son Brad McNeall of Redding, CA; daughter Victoria Austin of Eagle Point, OR and stepdaughter Brooke Pebley of El Dorado Hills, CA; brother Pete Luck of Reno, NV; and seven grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be directed to Intermountain Hospice, P.O. Box 459, Fall River Mills, CA 96028. Condolences may be posted at www.mem.com. McDonald's Chapel Burney arranged services which were held Tuesday, March 25 at the Big Valley High School with Rev. Jeff Bidwell.

Claude Ancel Walker

Claude Ancel Walker, 99, a former Adin resident, passed away March 31, 2008 in Yuba City, CA, where he had been living. Memorial services will be held Saturday, April 5 at 11 a.m. at Hooper Weaver Mortuary in Nevada City, CA. Mr. Walker's grandson, Pastor Victor M. Savage and Pastor Al Moody of new Life assembly Church, Marysville, will conduct the service.

Mr. Walker served his country with the U.S. Navy during World War II. He later became a lumber mill owner and operator and was a Justice of the Peace in Randolph County, Arkansas. He was born September 19, 1908 in Scotts Mills, OR to Joseph Walker and Susan (Pickens) Walker. On August 6, 1932 he married Catherine in Waterloo, Illinois. They were married for 65 years, when she passed away in 1997. He was also preceded in death by a son Claude Ancel Walker, Jr. in 1962.

Mr. Walker enjoyed fishing, gardening, playing Dominos, collecting coins, helping others and was a fan of the Sacramento Kings basketball team.

Mr. Walker is survived by his sons Robert Walker, Gerald Walker, Dean Walker, daughters Linda Savage and Virginia George; 19 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Yuba Sutter Senior Hall in Yuba City, Ca. Funeral Home Hooper & Weaver Mortuary is handling arrangements.

Harrison Alaric Marsden

Services for Harrison Alaric Marsden, 73, of Lookout, CA will be held at noon Saturday, April 5 at the Lookout Fire Hall. The Rev. Jerry Trotter of the Lookout Community Church will conduct the service.

Mr. Marsden passed away March 28, 2008 of natural causes at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, CA. Mr. Marsden was a U.S Marine Corps veteran who served in Korea.

A resident of Lookout since 1991, he was born in Montezuma, New York on January 7, 1935 and moved to Lookout from Fremont, CA, with his wife Bea. Mr. Marsden was a machinist for Caterpillar Tractor Manufacturing for 30 years. Once he became a resident of Lookout, he was active with the Lookout Volunteer Fire Department, a member of American Legion Big Valley, Chamber of Commerce for Big Valley and the Lookout Community Church.

He is survived by his wife Bea of Lookout; sons Mark of Manteca, CA and David of Fremont, CA; daughter Rose Ella Vargas of Fremont, CA; brother Keith Marsden of Stockton, CA; sister Sylvia Alien of Coopersville, GA and Lynette Sullivan of Colorado; four grandchildren.

Condolences may be posted at www.mem.com McDonald's Chapel of Burney has charge of arrangements. He will be laid to rest at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, CA.

Sports

Wood 4th, earns H.S. All-American

Modoc High School Junior Josh Wood took 4th place at 215 pounds in the Junior National Finals in Virginia Beach, Va., last weekend, earning him a coveted High School All-American honor.

Wood, who just came off a fourth place finish at the California State Finals the previous week, went 4-2 in the Nationals tournament, with 42 top wrestlers in this weight class. There were seven state champions in the weight class. More than 3,000 wrestlers from throughout the nation compete at the Junior Nationals.
Tyler Wood wrestled in the sophomore division at 171 pounds. While he didn't place, coach Shaun Wood was very pleased that he went 2-2 in the event.

What's up in sports?

With high schools coming off of spring break, spring sports gets back into full swing.

Modoc High School's baseball and softball teams have Fall River at home April 4, with game times at 2 p.m. They travel to Burney April 11.

The Modoc Golf team played at Arrowhead April 1 and goes to Lake Shastina April 3 and Fall River April 10.

Modoc's varsity track team is scheduled for the Hornet Invitational April 6.

Modoc wins home golf match

Modoc's golf team played its best round of the early season April Fool's Day, shooting a 406 at Arrowhead and beating Foothill's 456, Lakeview's 500, and Portola's 521.

Daniel Morgan had an outstanding one-under par 71 to lead all competitors. Jeff Solomon was second with a 76, Drew Morgan and Josue Madrigal each shot 84. Foothill's Brett Long broke into the top four with an 83. Jeff Barclay shot a 91.

Modoc's B team had results as follows: Justin Lee 95; Jack Callaghan 112; Dejah Montague 131; and Alex Moreo 116.

April 10, 2008

News

Outrageous fuel prices pushing truckers to limit

Skyrocketing fuel prices have pushed trucking companies to the wall, according to three local truck operators.

"We're having to charge an extra five to six dollars an hour just to compensate for the fuel difference," said Fernand Larranaga, owner of Larranaga Construction, Inc.

"It's hurting everybody," said Walt Sphar, owner of Walter Sphar Trucking, who feels lucky if he can just "break even" these days. "It's hit hard. We're not making any money. It's that bad."

"It's going to be a fight to make ends meet," said Jim Sherer, co-owner of the Sherer Brothers Logging and Trucking Company.

Sphar believes that present record high diesel prices will rise even further. "They say it's going to go up another 40 cents," he said, noting that it may soon exceed five dollars a gallon.

Diesel delivered to his business site for use in his trucks has more than doubled. "We used to get a truck and trailer load of diesel in here for $12,000 to $14,000," Sphar said, dejectedly. "Now it's well over $30,000 for the same load."

Other oil-based commodities have been affected as well, according to Larranaga. "The asphalt oil has close to doubled," he said. "It's darn near going to cost you twice as much."

"I don't see it going down," said Sherer of his fuel costs. "I say it's going to be five dollars a gallon for diesel and four dollars a gallon for gasoline in the near future-probably within a couple of months."

Clearly, things are not going well for those in the trucking industry. But that's only part of their concern. These owners believe their problems to be a bellwether for things to come in the wider economy.

"If it keeps going on like this, you're going to see a lot of people out of work," said Sphar. "There'll be a chain reaction. It's not only going to hurt the trucking business. Sure it's going to put a lot of truckers out of business, but it's going to hurt everybody."

"It's going to be a ripple effect," said Sherer. "If people want to pay five dollars for an eight-foot long two-by-four, if they want to pay five dollars for a five-pound bag of potatoes, that's just fine."
"It's hard to gauge, now," said Larranaga. "Everything is going up. I think the (greatest) effects are going to come this spring and summer."

Each of the owners has a bleak assessment of what rising fuel prices will mean for their industry and the nation as a whole.

Those on a fixed retirement income are in the most trouble according to Sphar. "This is hurting lots of people that are retired and elderly. They have medicine to buy, they have to heat their house and they buy groceries. All three are going sky high right now."

"I think everybody's in the hot seat," said Sherer. "It's not just me. It's going to cost way more to live, because it's all about fuel. The United States is all about fuel. We can't do without it, so everybody's just going to have to pay for it."

"It's going to put everybody out of business, I think," said Sphar, making a prediction. "It's going to be so bad at the end of this, you won't be able to give a truck away hardly. Just like houses right now, you couldn't sell a truck if you tried. I've got one out there for sale. No takers."

"I don't think there's anything you can do, especially in the trucking industry," said Larranaga, who feels he is ready for what comes next because he's worked to keep his business solvent. "I'm not extended enough out there to get hurt."

All agree that they have no recourse but to pass the added fuel costs along to their customers.

"Everybody adds a surcharge anymore. They have to pass it on. They're just passing the buck," said Larranaga, explaining how the pass-along works. "You figure your flat rate, and then you add a surcharge as it (the price of fuel) goes up.

"Actually, I haven't raised any of my prices yet," he said, continuing. "But this spring, it's going to jump us up by six bucks an hour just to compensate the fuel.

"You just have to pass the buck. You'll keep working as long as the consumer will pay for it. You'll keep hauling."

Saying, "If I can't make any money, I won't work. I'm not going to work for nothing," Sherer explained the "ripple" effect the trucking industry's woes will have on everyone. "It's all about the almighty dollar. So everybody's going to chisel all they can. It's not fair for me to take it out of my pockets. So, it's just a ripple effect down to the consumer."

Larranaga noted that government budget cuts will follow as the economy contracts, leaving less work to go around. "We do quite a bit of work for the county and the state, and their budgets are getting whacked," he said. "With the increased costs of fuel and asphalt oil, maybe they can only do half as much as they wanted to do."

He also questions why fuel costs locally are so much higher than elsewhere. "The cost, even from Redding to here, is a huge difference. What is that about, exactly?"

Word on the street is that truckers may soon stage a strike. "They have the capacity to do it," Larranaga said. "If the truckers did stop, even for a weekend or two or three days, this country would just come to a complete stop."

Ironically, he doesn't believe a strike or slowdown will happen. "It just seems like they're unwilling. They're not going down that road. We'll just charge more to offset the fuel costs and pass it along to the customer and move on with it. The fight's not worth it anymore."

"It'll never work," said Sphar of the rumored strike. "Too many people have contracts, like I do. I have to haul, regardless. I'm on a contract."

He feels that most independents haven't the will to make it work. "If you've got a new truck and a family to feed, you can't afford to quit," Sphar said. "You've got to keep working."

According to Sherer, the situation is deteriorating while politicians squabble. "One side is not going to agree with the other because they want the other side to look bad. And vice versa. Each wants the other side to look bad. So, until the (people) say, 'Enough is enough' and pull together, it's not going to work.

"I look for some changes, but it's not going to be until after the election," said Sherer, adding his predictions. "Then, depending upon how the election goes, it could get worse."

Hospital CEO search goes for 2nd round

Modoc County will start the search for a permanent Modoc Medical Center Chief Administrative Officer again, and the one just completed ended without success.

The county had three prospective applicants and was prepared to offer the position, but the preferred candidates reconsidered and opted out of the process.

According to County CEO Mike Maxwell, the current interim CEO, Jim Sato, has offered to restructure his future commitments, which would allow him to stay through June.

Sato will be gone the first two weeks in May, when Maxwell will once again resume to hospital CEO position on a short-term basis.

Maxwell said the county intends to change recruiting companies and will continue the search for a permanent CEO.

Media Center, River Center will swap spots

This summer will mark a major move for two institutions in Alturas, the River Center and the Modoc County Office of Education Media Center will switch locations.

Gary Jones, Modoc Superintendent of Schools has studied the issue and sees advantages for both services with the impending change.

First off, the MCOE owns the building the River Center is now housed in on Henderson Street and the Media Center portion of the Modoc County Library on Third Street.

Jones has discussed and presented the plan to all those affected parties and the move should take place after July.

According to Jones, the River Center's lease runs through June 30 and they will stay in that place at least until that time.

The Media Center, which supplies the school district with educational items and resources is currently going through a "weeding" process, basically eliminating old, outdated or non-used items to pare down the massive inventory of educational materials.

Jones said about 75 percent of the material at the Media Center has not been checked out over the past five years. In addition, the overall usage of the materials, including books, video, teacher aids, equipment, DVDs, CR-ROM and others has declined for a total circulation of 36,491 in 2000-01 to 19,800 in 2006-07.

Jones said much of the concern for moving the Media Center has to do with each district's payment for the services, a lessening of Forest Reserve dollars, fewer uses of educational materials and major changes due to technology.

What the move will gain for the Media Center is a reconfiguration to meet current technology needs, an update for the Media Specialist duties and overall better perception of the center and a location closer the MCOE.

The River Center gains much more space, about double, a location next the County Library and closer to schools, basically free rent, only having to pay utility costs, and the ability and room to provide better displays.

In addition, Jones said the County Library will get additional shelf and storage space by assuming some of the area the Media Center had occupied.

Fire destroys motorhome on U.S. 395

A fire, apparently that started in the engine compartment, completely destroyed a motorhome on U.S. 395 April 8, 3:15, about three miles north of Likely.

According to Patricia Cantrall, a member of the Likely Fire Department, and a Modoc County Supervisor, she encountered the smoking vehicle on the way home to Likely from Tuesday's Board meeting. She stopped and started traffic control, concerned that the fuel and propane tanks on the vehicle would burst.

The driver of the vehicle and his wife, and another truck driver who stopped to help were also at the scene.

The Likely Fire Department was the first on the scene and was assisted by the Bureau of Land Management fire crew out of West Valley.

According to the motorhome driver, he lost oil pressure and noticed white smoke coming from the engine. He pulled off the road and stopped to check out what was going on. When he opened the hood, more smoke and flames erupted.

"It was pretty scary, and I was really worried about those tanks exploding," said Cantrall. "We made sure everyone was away from the vehicle and we didn't let traffic through until we knew it was safe. The tanks did go off and the motorhome was destroyed. But, thankfully, no one was hurt."

SOH still hoping to make November ballot

The Save Our Hospital Committee is still aiming to put the Modoc Medical Center Hospital District question on the November ballot, and they're going to have to meet some deadlines to get that done.
The biggest hurdle at the moment will be getting the hospital district application through the LAFCO (Local Agency Formation Commission), hearing without any major delays to meet the deadline to place the issue on the ballot.

SOH members believe they'll be able to meet those deadlines and are working on a variety of issues now that have to go into the application, including business plans, budgets, district boundaries, tax amount and so on.

The SOH also points out this week that: "The local belief that the hospital cannot be closed is misleading. Per the California Hospital Association, there is 'no requirement to keep a county hospital open per se . . .'

While most people realize that several county hospitals have in fact been closed, the SOH stresses that is a possibility here, however remote.

"The idea may have become common knowledge because the county is obligated under Welfare and Institutions Code 17000 to provide medical care to the indigent. However, there is no requirement that care be provided at a local or county-run medical facility. In other words, indigent people, for whom the county is required to provide medical care, can be transported to any facility the county selects," the SOH writes.

Last week, the Board of Supervisors passed a Memorandum of Understanding, MOU, between the county and SOH for the orderly transfer of buildings, operating expenses, accounts receivable and licenses from Modoc County to the Last Frontier Healthcare District.

Of course, that MOU would only officially take effect if the hospital district and the tax assessment pass a vote of the people. The district requires only a simple majority vote, but the funding measure will require two-thirds approval.

"Everyone involved with the discussions involved in creating the MOU made a sincere effort to protect the interests of both Modoc County as well as the Healthcare District," SOH states. "The completion of this document and acceptance by the Board of Supervisors will now allow Supervisors to move forward to create a resolution requesting LAFCO accept the application from the SOH to form a healthcare district and add it to the ballot in November."
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Obituaries:

Services for Patrick Tignor

A graveside service for Patrick Henry Tignor, 87, will be held April 19, 2008, at 2:30 p.m. at the Alturas Cemetery. Family friend Don Wion will conduct the service. A fellowship gathering will follow at Alturas Baptist Church on Fourth Street, Alturas.

Mr. Tignor a former Vice Principal and teacher at Modoc High School for many years, passed away at his home in Madras, Oregon on January 16, 2008.

He is survived by his wife Wanda of Madras, OR; daughter Suzy of Terrebonne, OR; Corky of Maui, Hawaii; sister Margeuritte of Maryland and brothers Charlie of Kentucky; Troy of Georgia and William of Florida.

Condolences may be sent to the Tignor Family at 165 N.E. 16th Street, Madras, OR. 97741. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Modoc County Senior Citizens Center, 906 West Fourth St., Alturas, CA 96101 or the Modoc Unit of the American Cancer Society, 402 East 4th Street, Alturas, CA 96101. Mr. Tignor's obituary will be published next week.

Donald 'Steve' Clark

Donald "Steve" Clark of Grass Valley died March 23, 2008 at UC Davis Medical Center. He was 75.

Mr. Clark was born July 13, 1932, in Turlock, CA. He grew up in Alturas and attended Modoc High School. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, he married Connie Wood of Alturas, CA. in 1953. He worked in the sawmills in Modoc County for many years before going to work for California Division of Forestry in 1961. He moved his family to Grass Valley in 1975. After 26 years of service, he retired as a CDF Captain from Washington Ridge Conservation Camp in 1987. 

Mr. Clark was liked and respected by all who knew him. He enjoyed traveling the countryside with his wife of 55 years, woodworking, building model trains, fishing, and just tinkering in his shop. His biggest enjoyment in life was his family. He and his wife had three sons and one daughter. 

Mr. Clark was loved and will be greatly missed by his wife, Connie Clark; sons and daughters in-law Don and Kaja Clark of Rough and Ready, Jerry and Kris Clark of Palermo; son, Kelly Clark, of Oakdale; his daughter and son in-law Tammy and Jim Sherlock of Grass Valley; 14 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren and his brother Earl Clark of Alturas. 

He was preceded in death by his father and mother Ray and Alpha Clark, his brothers Clyde, Glen, Charles and his only sister Ida Mary Davis.

As per Steve's wishes, there will not be any services. Instead, the family will have a celebration of life in his honor on June 21, 2008, to be held at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

Mabel Marie Miller

Mabel Marie Miller, a native of Alturas, passed away at the Red Bluff hospital on April 6, 2008. Mrs. Miller had been a resident at Sun Bridge Care and Rehabilitation of Red Bluff, CA.

Born to Jesse and Sadie Addington of Alturas, CA on November 14, 1927, she was their fifth child.
Mabel worked in the Box Factories for Ralph Smith Lumber Company in Alturas. She was married to Ray Brown and the couple had two children, a son, baby Harold Ray Brown, born October 16, 1942, who passed away December 1942. Their daughter Marie Rae Brown Wood was born Nov. 16, 1946 and passed away July 21, 1981. Her parents and two brothers, Harold and Ernest Addington also preceded her in death.

Mabel and Ray divorced. She later married "Bunk" Miller and lived in Oroville for a number of years.

She is survived by three sisters, Alfreda Clark of Alturas, CA; Edith Root of Redmond, OR and Hazel Wobbe and husband Lyle of Red Bluff, CA; two brothers, Ray Addington of Alturas, CA and Norman Addington and wife Alice of Caldwell, Idaho; two grandsons Tim and Ted Woods; a number of great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at the Tehama Cemetery at 2 p.m. today, April 10 in Red Bluff, CA.

Don Doris

Don Doris, 78, passed away April 4, 2008 at his home in Los Osos, CA
after a fight with cancer. 

Don was a formidable figure in the beef cattle industry.  He was manager/herdsman for Founder and Publisher of Stockman's Weekly and Pacific Stockman Magazine; and notably as Field Representative and Director of Advertising for Western Livestock Journal. Don was inducted into the Livestock Marketers Hall of Fame in 1990. 

Don was preceded in death by his son, David, in 1986; and by his wife
of fifty-two years, Dorothy, who worked by his side until her death in
2002. He is survived by his wife and "buddy", Carolyn, with whom he danced
 and cruised the past three years. His family includes daughter Dianne
 Wright and husband Don; son Dan and wife Geri; daughter-in-law Diane
 Doris; sister Dorothy Tarvin Gibson of Hanford; granddaughter Dawn Hinton
 and husband Sam; granddaughter Melanie Swager and husband Kevin;
 grandson Dana Doris and wife Julie; grandson Derek Doris; and five great
 grandchildren.  Also surviving are Dick Gates, his wife Carol, and their
 family. Several Auctioneers, Sale Managers, Auction Market Operators, Publication Representatives,
Livestock Photographers, Ranch Managers, Herdsmen, Cattle Fitters, and Ringmen as well as Commercial and Purebred Cattle people, (emerging as well as the established) are the benefactors of the sincere advise (and/or constructive criticism) and consul of Don Doris. One of Don's many Livestock Marketing innovations was The All-Breeds Sifted and Graded Bull Sale concept that he co-founded with H 'Skinner' Hardy in 1965. That same All-Breeds Format has been adopted throughout America.

Don was born in Tulare, CA on August 6, 1929, and resided on a ranch in Waukena, CA during his early years. Don lived in Clovis, CA most of his life raising his family and working
in the purebred livestock industry.

Services will be held Friday, April 11, 10:00 a.m. at Valley Christian Center, 4649 E. Shields, Fresno, CA. Burial will immediately follow at The Clovis Cemetery.  Everyone is invited to return to the Christian Center for refreshments and The Celebration of Don's Life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to: Fraternal Order of Eagles #3693, 2988 N, Main St., Morro Bay, CA 93442; or to the donors Charity of choice.

Sports

Braves split with Bulldogs

Modoc's baseball team split a doubleheader with the Fall River Bulldogs last weekend, wining the first 4-3 and losing the second game 10-3. Modoc is at Burney Friday.

In the opener, Modoc scored three in the fifth and one in the sixth. Fall River scored all three runs in the third.

Trent Schmidt got the win, going seven innings, allowing three runs on four hits, walked three and fanned four.

James Budmark, Webb Dunn, Ty Hammerness, Dee Hunsaker and Schmidt each collected a hit in the game.

In the nightcap, Fall River scored four in the second, three in the third, two in the fifth and one in the sixth. Modoc scored its three runs in the fifth.

Justin Estes got the loss, going four innings, giving up seven runs on eight hits, striking out four and allowing one walk. He was relieved by John Hughes who allowed three runs in three innings, on three hits, three walks and fanned four.

Hughes led the offense going 2-for-4, while Estes, Schmidt, and Irvend Chacon each had a hit.
Modoc is now 1-7 on the season and 1-3 in the Shasta Cascade League.

Bonanza beat the Braves 13-0 April 3, not able to get their offense going. Estes collected the only hit for Modoc.

Bonanza scored three in the first, three in the second, four in the third and three in the fourth.

Weed dominates golf match

Weed's Cougars put together a very strong match to win on their home course April 3, with Modoc taking second.

Weed shot a team score of 381, and had the top four individuals: Scott Lassen with 71; Dave Anderson with 73; Adam Anderson with 77; and Jake West with 79.

Modoc's Daniel Morgan and Jeff Solomon fired 80s to lead the Braves to a team score of 432. Drew Morgan shot 90, Josue Madrigal and Jeff Barclay shot 91 and Justin Lee had a 115.
Mt. Shasta's steam shot a 475, Fall River a 486 and Trinity a 544.

The Braves next Shasta Cascade League match is April 10 at Fall River.

Modoc girls win, lose to Fall River

Modoc's varsity softball team won the opening game against Fall River last Friday 3-2, but dropped the second game 3-0.

In the opener, Modoc scored one in the first, added one in the fourth and one in the sixth. Fall River scored one in the second and one in the third.

Nicole Hall started for the Braves, going three innings, allowing three hits, five walks and fanned three. Emily Conner got the win, relieving in the fourth; She fanned seven and allowed one hit.
Sarah Catania led the offense, going 3-for-3; Conner went 1-for-2 and Sarah Gibbons 1-for-3.
The Braves lost the second game, struggling against Fall River pitcher Emily Estes.

Conner was on the mound for Modoc, striking out eight, walking one and allowing four hits.
On April 3, the Braves beat Bonanza in a non-league game 13-1. Conner got the win, fanning six, and allowing no runs or hits before being relived by Hall.

Amanda Fain went 4-for-4; Conner, Hall and Sami Schmidt went 3-for-4
The Braves are now 7-3 overall and 3-1 in the SCL. They face Burney here Friday.

Wood wins big Reno invite

Modoc's Josh Wood won the prestigious Reno World of Wrestling tournament at the 215-pound division over the weekend. The tourney attracts some of the top high school wrestlers from throughout the country.
Miguel Torres placed fourth in the 15-year-old heavyweight division. Kyle Voth and Tyler Wood went 2-2 in the event, Trent McQuarrie went 1-2, and Alex Valencia was 0-2.

Modoc tracksters do well in tough meet

While individual results were not given, Modoc's track team competed well April 6 at Enterprise High School in Redding.

According to coach Wendi Lowrey, Rebecca Field had a personal best in the shot put and Beth Colbert and Susanna Jones had PR's in the mile. Michel Funk competed very well in stiff competition.

Cain Madrigal, Cam Hall and Kevin Jones did well, with Jones place forth in the pole vault at 10-6.
In addition, Newmie Wilson and Chris McMasters both threw the shot well.

"It was a really long day with some tough competition," said Lowrey. "The kids really stepped up to the plate and did really well against some big schools." The next schedule meet for the Braves is the Weed Time Trials April 17.

April 17, 2008

News

New woodcutting policy tweaked

The Modoc National Forest and Bureau of Land Management's Surprise, Alturas and Eagle Lake field offices have modified their juniper woodcutting policies.

Area woodcutters gathered at the Modoc County Sheriff's office, Tues. April 8th. Hosted by Modoc County and moderated by Sean Curtis, County Natural Resource Advisor, 37 woodcutters learned about and debated the BLM and Forest's policy on Juniper firewood. Leaders of both agencies were on hand to answer questions and explain the policy changes.

Energies ran high and there was much discussion on points of the policy. The attachment to the permit was reviewed and suggestions were made for improvements.

Fuelwood cutters with a permit may cut junipers less than 30 inches in diameter at stump height (12 inches) that sprouted after the 1870s. They can easily be recognized as they have pointed tops, symmetrical shape, one central trunk, smooth lightly furrowed bark with only shallow fissures, and no or very thin low branches.

Old junipers may not be cut for firewood. They will have one or more of these features: rounded or asymmetrical tops that may be sparse and contain dead limbs, deeply furrowed fibrous bark on the trunk that is reddish in color in living trees and gray in dead trees, large dead or live branches near the base of the tree, or multiple trunks.

National Forest permits went on sale on Monday and can be used weather permitting, May 1 - Feb. 29.

BLM permits go on sale May 1 and are good until Nov. 1 or bad weather.

The new Forest policy and two-agency permit attachment is available on line at www.fs.fed.us/modoc.
The April 8 meeting was a follow-up to the County-hosted meeting in November where the agencies met with woodcutters to receive suggestions on how to continue firewood cutting while preserving old Western juniper trees. This was as a result of comments submitted on the Draft Sage Steppe Ecosystem Restoration Environmental Impact Statement. The results of the research for that EIS indicated that there is significant value to old junipers. Previous fuel wood policies for both agencies allowed woodcutters to cut them down for firewood.

For more information call the BLM at 233-4666 or 279-6101 or the Modoc National Forest at 233-

5811, 279-6116, 667-2276 or 299-3215.

Major donation makes MMC future more tangible

A $500,000 donation to Modoc Medical Center from an area rancher was accepted by the Modoc, gratefully, by the Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday.

The donation came from the Mark and Jessie Milano Foundation and will come in two parts. The Milano's own the Blacks Canyon Ranch in Modoc County.

The first part is $250,000 restricted to the funding of the new CT Scanner and will come in May, The second $250,000 will for an ultrasound machine, which will be funded in January 2009. The donations are coming from the Milanos through the Shasta Regional Community Foundation.
According to Interim Hospital Administrator Jim Sato, the donations will bring significant and lifesaving results, both medically and financially, for the hospital.

He said the total cost for the CT Scanner, which is scheduled to arrive in May is abut $480,000, excluding the service contract starting in the second year of operation. The digital ultrasound unit is estimated to cost about $259,000, which includes employee training and service contracts.
"This gift will reduce the operating costs of the new computed tomography (CT) scanner scheduled for service in early to mid-May 2008 and the operating cost of a new digital ultrasound unit scheduled to start service in February 2009," Sato reported to the Board Tuesday. "Essentially, the breakeven point for performing a CT scan and an ultrasound will be educed dramatically. While not quantified at this time, this gift will reduce the overall operating loss at Modoc Medical Center."

In recognition of the incredible donation, the radiology department at MMC will be named the "Milano Radiology Department at Modoc Medial Center." A public ceremony commemorating the event will be held in the near future. Plaques will be installed in the Radiology Department and on the new CT Scan trailer acknowledging the Milano's gifts.

In addtion, the Milanos have asked MMC top check with St. Joseph Medical center in Stockton to bring their mobile mammography unit to Alturas for about six visits a year. The cost to MMC would be about $30,000 said Sato.

Sato said several people have been instrumental in finalizing the donation including Mike Mason, President of Save Our Hospital; Mike Maxwell, County CEO; Bill Boland MMC Director of Radiology; Marty Shaffer, Chief Engineer; Lance Chrysler, Materials Manager; Dr. Ed Richert; Delinda Gover, Interim Nursding Officer; and Linda Wellemyer, Director of Training.

Gang trial moves ahead to May

Following the initial preliminary examination April 9 through April 14, the gang-related case against five people has been continued to May 9.

The case involves an incident in Newell in 2007 where Jose Gomez, Ulisses Perez Gomez, Temoc Asamar, Jose Luis Perez Garcia and Jonathan Gomez are being charged with three counts of attempted murder, three counts of assault, one count of vandalism, one count of firing a weapon at an inhabited dwelling, and one count of criminal gang activity and many gang-related enhancements.
According to Modoc District Attorney Gary Woolverton, on Dec. 16, the above five suspected members of the Surenos gang are alleged to have fired several shots into an inhabited Newell residence as part of gang-related retaliation.

"The defendants have made various evidence suppression motions," Woolverton said. "Due to the large number of attorneys involved, the complex law, and expected lengthy arguments, retired Judge Larry Dier scheduled arguments on the preliminary hearing testimony for May 9, 2008. A decision will follow shortly thereafter. The decision will deal with what charges will proceed to trial."

Woolverton said the gang enhancements would add a longer sentence than just the underlying crimes alleged. Those enhancements generally relate to crimes committed while being armed or discharging a firearm.

MMC catching up on past billing issues

The bane of Modoc Medical Center's for the recent, if not distant, past has been the late billing practices. The issue has caused losses of thousands of dollars in bad debt as well as continued customer angst.

According to Jim Sato, Interim Administrator, the billing department may be getting that issue under control.

One of the keys to correct the issue is to get the hospital's accounts receivable days into an acceptable period, about 60 days by the end of June, from the 101 days at the end of November 2007.

Simply, accounts receivable are what patients, insurance companies and the federal and state government programs owe to the hospital. Getting those bills out on a timely fashion is critical to getting paid for the service.

Sato said, for instance, that the older the bill, the less chance it will be paid. As an example, he said Medicare will not pay for a claim submitted more than 15 months after the service was provided and MediCal will not pay for services billed over a year late. In addition, most insurance companies will not pay for services, which occurred six months ago.

The money involved is substantial. According to Sato's figures, $1,633,699 of the current bills is from 0-30 days old. However, $1,116,781 is over six months old, $590,597 is three to six months old and $602,466 is one to three months old.

"As mentioned earlier," Sato said, "the older a bill gets, the less likely we will be able to collect it. In MMC's situation, about 28 percent of our accounts receivable are over six months old. Our efforts have been to collect the most amounts of cash as quickly as possible. Over the years, we have spent our resources collecting the account that were relatively new. As a result, the older accounts were left as a less priority." Those older accounts are now being cleaned up and the billing office is stressing prompt and correct billing practices. It hopes to have the older billing issues under control in a short time.

SOH committee needs public input

Times and deadlines are getting tight for the Save Our Hospital Committee to wrap the LAFCO application up in time for approval to make the November ballot deadline, in August.

The next two SOH meetings are April 21 and April 23, 7 p.m. at Shirley Oxley Hall at Modoc High School.

"At these next two meetings, we will be working on finalizing the business plan and financial statements for the LAFCO application," said Lau Miller. "This is the time for your input on how the future hospital district will operate and we greatly need your ideas. The decisions being made now, while they sound elemental are the very core of hospital operations. Bring your friends, your neighbors and come be a part of this exciting planning."

The SOH committee is striving to put together the packet, which will allow the formation of a hospital district and put that issue on the November ballot for a vote.

As of this time, the boundaries of that proposed hospital district have not been defined, nor has the actual amount of the assessment. Those questions will be answered in the near future.

If the application goes through LAFCO cleanly, without any major problems, and is approved, the issue could be placed on the November General Election ballot.

The questions will have two parts. The first will ask voters whether to form a hospital district? That part of the issue requires a simple majority to pass. The second question will ask whether voters approve of a certain tax to fund the district. That issue requires a supermajority to pass, two-thirds.
The Modoc County Board of Supervisors has adopted a Memorandum of Understanding with the SOH as a basis for the orderly transition of buildings, operating expenses, accounts receivables and licenses from Modoc County to the Last Frontier Healthcare District, if the district issue is approved by the voters.

Obituaries:

Gwenette Wimer Backovich

Gwenette Lee Wimer-Backovich, 32, of Paskenta, CA, who spent her childhood and teen years in Alturas, passed away in Paskenta on April 7, 2008. Gwen was born in Corning, CA. A vivacious and outgoing individual, Gwen was selected as Modoc High's Homecoming Queen in the Fall of 1992 and graduated from Modoc High in 1993. She graduated from the California Highway Patrol Academy in 1999.

Gwen was a devoted and loving mother to her seven-year-old son Brett Michael Backovich of Redding. She also leaves behind her mother Ginger Wimer of Paskenta, and father Lamond Wimer of Alturas, CA; a brother Hank Wimer of Chico; half-sister Caitlyn Wimer of Oroville, CA; nephews Chase Wimer of Corning, Wyatt Wimer of Chico and a niece Morgan Wimer of Chico and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins from the Corning, Flournoy and Paskenta area.
While her time with us was short, her friends and family will miss her dearly.

Graveside services were held Friday, April 11 at 3 p.m. at the Paskenta Cemetery, Paskenta, CA. Any contributions may be made to your favorite charity or the Simpson Finnell Park, c/o Howard Cramer, P.O. Box 193, Paskenta, CA 96074. Hall Bros. Corning Mortuary was in charge of arrangements. Condolences to the Wimer family may be sent to P.O. Box 406, Paskenta CA 96074.

Charles Ray Greene

California Pines resident Charles Ray Greene, 80, passed away April 12, 2008 at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. Mr. Greene had resided at Cal Pines for the past 22 years. He was born January 4, 1928 in Chippewa Falls. He served in the U.S. Navy four years as a Seaman, 1st class. He loved fishing, hunting and camping and was a retired mailman. He is survived by his wife of almost 55 years, Lois Ann Greene, whom he married May 13, 1955 in Wisconsin. He is also survived by his children Sharon, Christine, Pat and Charles, Jr.; 10 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. He will be greatly missed by all his family members. Services will be held at a later date under the direction of Kerr Mortuary.

Services for Patrick Tignor Saturday

A graveside service for Patrick Henry Tignor, 87, will be held April 19, 2008, at 11 a.m. at the Alturas Cemetery. Family friend Don Wion will conduct the service. A fellowship gathering will follow at Alturas Baptist Church on Fourth Street, Alturas.

Mr. Tignor a former Vice Principal and teacher at Modoc High School for many years, passed away at his home in Madras, Oregon of Emphysema on January 16, 2008.

Born April 10, 1920 in Hindman, Kentucky, he graduated from high school in Hindman and earned his Bachelor of Arts and Masters degrees in Education from the University of Kentucky at Georgetown, Kentucky.

Mr. Tignor joined the U.S. Army in 1942. He was stationed in Paris and was routed to Germany at the close of the war. He was a sergeant during World War II serving in the European theater. He joined the CounterIntelligence Corps in the ETO and handled investigative material and equipment for the CounterIntelligence teams. He was injured in a recreational football game and spent three months in a hospital in England. He was an ambulatory patient, so he was able to help with the many injured soldiers who flooded into the hospitals after the "D" Day Operation. He was discharged in 1945.
Pat went to work for the U.S. Forest Service. He and Wanda Walker were married in Baker City, Oregon on January 26, 1951. The couple moved to Modoc County in 1952, when Mr. Tignor went into the field of Education. He taught for many years at Modoc High and retired as Vice Principal of Modoc High.

Pat loved hunting and fishing. He spent most of his time off wandering the mountains enjoying these hobbies. When he retired, he began to pursue his interest in rocks. He did a great deal of lapidary work and enjoyed making tables and clocks with slabs of rock. Pat collected many rocks over years of rock hounding. He also enjoyed flintknapping. He was a member of the California Gem and Mineral Society, Modoc Gem and Mineral and Trails West, a Reno based organization consisting of many Nevada and California members who studied immigrant trails of the west and their history. The groups followed the old immigrant trails, using four-wheel drive vehicles and often camping out along the trails.

In 2006, Wanda and Pat relocated to Madras, Oregon, and have enjoyed their life together there.
Mr. Tignor is survived by his wife of 57 years, Wanda Tignor of Madras, OR; daughters Suzy of Terrebonne, OR; Corky of Maui, Hawaii; sister Margeuritte of Maryland and brothers Charlie of Kentucky; Troy of Georgia and William of Florida.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Modoc County Senior Citizens Center, 906 West Fourth St., Alturas, CA 96101 or the Modoc Unit of the American Cancer Society, 402 East 4th Street, Alturas, CA 96101. Condolences may be sent to the Tignor Family at 165 N.E. 16th Street, Building C #12, Madras, OR. 97741.

George David Boneck

George David Boneck, known as David to his family and friends, passed away April 11, 2008 at his Lake City, CA ranch home. He was 70 and retired from ranching.

Born in Janesville, CA October 16, 1937, he graduated from Lassen High School in Susanville. He was 18 when he joined the U.S. Marine Corps. He served as a Corporal in Korea and at Camp Pendleton during the early 1950s. He met Sharon Wright in Reno, while he was there working in the lumber industry. The couple married on January 26, 1969 in Reno and eventually moved to their ranch property in Lake City, which they have both loved for the past 20 years. David began working on the Modoc Super Bull Committee from its inception and had continued his dedicated, behind-the-scenes work for the past 11 years, often seen working the back gate, as he knew all the cowboys.
David is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Sharon of Lake City. He is also survived by his children KCee of Lake City, Paul of Alturas, Josh of Lake City, Shawna and husband Bruce Fournier of Minden, NV; Robin and wife Lisa of Cedar City, Utah and daughters Pamela Eldred and Kim Boneck in Texas; brothers Larry and wife Janet of Reno, NV; Charles and wife Yuki of Reno; Raymond and wife Evelyn of Washington; 12 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his children Jason in 2001 and Kevin in 1961.

Services were conducted by the Latter-day Saints Church on April 15 at 10 a.m. at the Lake City Cemetery.

Donations in his memory may be directed to Surprise Valley Healthcare, P.O. Box 246, Cedarville, CA 96104. Services were under the direction of Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Harry Taylor, Jr.

Yreka resident, Harry J. Taylor, Jr., passed away on April 9, 2008 in Ripon, CA after a lengthy illness. He was born September 16, 1920 in Twin Falls, Idaho to Harry J. and Mabel A. Grinsted Taylor.
Harry moved to Yreka, CA in 1961 where he was on the Supervisor's Staff of the Klamath National Forest. He retired from the forest service in 1979. During his career with the forest service, he worked in the regional office in San Francisco, and was District Ranger on the Modoc National Forest.
Harry graduated from Twin Falls Idaho High School, Twin Falls, ID in 1938. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1942. After several duty stations in the San Diego area as a hospital corpsman, he volunteered to be a Marine Corpsman with the 2nd Marine Division. While in the Marines, Harry took part in the campaigns for Tarawa and Saipan. After his two years were up with the Marine Corps, he was assigned to a sub chaser (SC 722) in the Philippine Islands, where he finished out the war. Following the end of World War II, Harry returned to the University of Idaho where he graduated in 1948 and began his career with the forest service.

Harry was a 50 year member of the Modoc Lodge #235 F. & A. M. of Alturas, CA, a member of the York Rite Bodies of Yreka and the Knights of the York Cross of Honor. He was also a member of Chapter 2101, National Association of Federal Employees of Yreka.

For several years, Harry participated in a volunteer program on the Salmon River Ranger District of the Klamath National Forest and was selected as volunteer of the year by Chief of the Forest Service Mike Dombeck in 1997.

In addition to the above activities, Harry loved to fish, hunt and play golf. He was a long time member of the Weed Golf Club.

Harry is survived by his wife, Darlene; daughter, Margaret Lunnum and her husband Duane of Stanwood, Washington; son Paul, of Stanwood, Washington; son Alan, a Master Sergeant in the Marine Corps stationed in Virginia, wife, Angela and grandson Harrison J.; step-son, George Eustice, wife Lisa and children, Tanner and Hailey; his sister Marion Thibodeau of Ripon, CA; and sister-in-law Dorothy Taylor of Madera, CA.

He also leaves behind nephew Michael Thibodeau and wife Michelle; niece Leslie Halseth, husband Don, children Jenna and Benjamin; niece Caroline Thibodeau, husband Tom Oliver and son Michael, all of Ripon, CA. He was preceded in death by his brother George in 2005.

Masonic Memorial Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, to the Klamath National Forest Scholarship fund or to one's favorite charity.

Clarence 'Honey' George

Clarence "Honey" George passed away at his home in Lookout, CA on April 11, 2008. He was born in Brownwood, TX on September 23, 1946.

He came to California in 1968 to serve in the Navy at Long Beach, CA where he was serving on the USS Lynde McCormick, DDG-8. That is were he met his wife Cindy.

They moved to Westwood, CA in 1971 , where they ran the Westwood Variety Store before moving to Big Valley in 1981 to manage the FGG Ranch. He worked on the Muck Valley Project at Hayden Hill, and then Harbert Oil for the past eight years.

Clarence was trained as an electrician in the Navy. He was a jack-of-all trades and was the man who could "fix" anything.

His favorite times were spent with his family, hunting, fishing, traveling to Texas, Reno, Redding, and playing horseshoes and cribbage.

His hobbies included: helping his kids and extended families with their projects, stamp collecting, and playing with his grandkids.

Clarence is survived by his wife of 37 years Cindy, daughters Kelly Stevenson of Adin, CA, and Marci Duncan of Reno, NV; son Jimmy George of Reno, NV, his grandchildren Dillon, Madalyn and Michael, his sister Laverne Hopkins of Comanche, TX, the Fiske family in Redding, CA, and Jennifer Bidmead in Brentwood, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Laehler George, and brother Henry George.

A memorial service will be held at Bieber Memorial Building in Bieber on Saturday April 19 at 10:00 a.m., followed by a potluck.

Clarence was a wonderful 'Honey,' 'Dad', 'Papa' 'Clarie', 'Uncle' and friend to all of us. We have lost someone precious to our hearts and he will never be forgotten.

Barbara Lee Booth

Barbara Lee Booth, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends in Susanville, CA on March 31, 2008.

Barbara was born in Wyoming to James and Margarite Tourtelot. In 1970, she married Hugh Edward Booth, Sr. They made their home in Alturas in 1976. Barbara worked for DART and Modoc Work Activity Center for 15 years in Alturas and volunteered for Special Olympics. She enjoyed bird watching camping, fishing and playing games on her computer.
She loved spending time with her friends and family.

Barbara was able to attend the Booth 20th year Family Reunion in August 2007. She had a smile from ear to ear when she got to see all her family together.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Hugh Booth, daughter Cindy Sturm, granddaughters Laura Dean and Celeste Booth and great-grandson Tristen Oliver. She is survived by her six children Ed Booth, John Sturm, James Booth, Garnet Booth, Penny Ramey, Terrie Christensen, 20 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and many extended family members. Barbara Lee Booth will be laid to rest April 19, 2008 at the Alturas Cemetery at 2 p.m. She is loved and will be deeply missed.

Information provided by Walton's Colonial Mortuary of Susanville, CA.

Alan E. Charlet
 
Alan Charlet, son of Ray & Pauline Charlet, formerly of Alturas, has passed away according to Alan's sister Sharon Carpenter of Golden Valley, AZ, as of April 14, 2008.

Alan was born Oct. 4, 1944 in Merced, CA and passed away of pancreatic cancer in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. A 1962 graduate of Modoc Union High, he joined the Air Force and served 25 years in the U.S. and Holland. He later went to work for Ryder Trucking as a computer programmer which took the family to Ohio.

Alan is survived by his wife of 29 years, Mary; children, Richard Charlet of Colorado, Lena (Arnold) Smith, Jennifer (Jason) Carroll, and William Charlet; along with 5 grandchildren, all of Ohio; also sisters, Sharon (Jim) Carpenter of Arizona and Kathie (Jim) Tarr of North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray & Pauline Charlet. A military funeral in Cuyahoga Falls is planned following cremation.

April 24, 2008

News

SOH effort intensifies as LAFCO nears

With deadlines and timelines narrowing, the effort to form a hospital district to cover Modoc Medical Center is intensifying.

The Save Our Hospital Committee had two meeting this week and the Board of Supervisors discussed the issue on Tuesday. A public hearing has been set for May 6 before the board of Supervisors to adopt a resolution of initiating proceeds for the formation of the Health Care District and the establishment of a Sphere of Influence in the Alturas, California Pines, Canby, and Likely areas of Modoc County. A map detailing the boundaries of that district is available.

One of the key elements in the process is an application to LAFCO, the Local Agency Formation Commission for formation of the special district. That application is currently being finalized and is expected to be completed in the very near future.

The initial plan was the have the LAFCO process finished in time to place the district formation and resulting assessment on the November 3 General Election ballot. That may still be the goal, but it's also possible that any delays could move the vote to a special election next spring. What actually happens won't be known until the LAFCO process is underway.

According to SOH Chairman Mike Mason, the business plan just released for the Last Frontier Healthcare District, which will be a part of the LAFCO process is well done and helpful.

"MMC has suffered serious and increasingly larger financial losses over the past several years," the business plan states. "In light of unacceptable losses and an accumulated net deficit of approximately $10 million, the Modoc County Board of Supervisors may be forced to close the Medical Center. Last Frontier Healthcare District is being forced to keep MMC from closing."

The business plan is the vehicle LAFCO will use to assure the new district would be financially viable.

The plan states that MMC must engage in aggressive cost cutting and revenue generating measures and must receive an appropriate level of funding from the proceeds of a special tax on unique properties. That tax must be approved by two-thirds of the voters within the proposed district. That tax, while still in the study stages is likely to be between $100 and $200 annually per property owner, not per parcel. On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors asked for clarification on Proposition 218 impacts, or if the issue addresses the special tax if approved by the voters. That issue is under study.
Proposition 218 took effect in 1997 as an effort by California voters to curtail local government's "abuse" of special fees or assessments. In essence, under Proposition 218, assessments may only increase with a two-thirds majority vote of the qualified voters within the District. In addition to the two-thirds voter approval requirement, Proposition 218 states that effective July 1, 1997, any assessments levied may not be more than the costs necessary to provide the service, proceeds may not be used for any other purpose other than providing the services intended, and assessments may only be levied for services that are immediately available to the property owners.

If the district is approved by the voters, it will assume the assets, liabilities, management and staff of MMC following formation of the district.

"What we're painfully aware of is that if the district doesn't pass, the hospital may have to be closed," said Mason. "No one wants to see that happen and that's why we're working so hard to make sure the hospital is secure for the future. The district is the best way to make that happen."
The business plan authors undrstand and state that one of the problems facing MMC was the lack of community confidence in the facility and applauds its now ongoing effort to regain that trust and respect. "Although there is evidence that MMC's losses may be reduced in the future by recent MMC revenue enhancement and expense reduction actions, a special tax is required to ensure the financial health of the new district," the business plan concludes.

The SOH Committee predicts that the special tax will raise $1.4 million at the $100 per year level and $2.8 million at the $200 level. The actual loss at the hospital for the year 2007 was $2,862,251.

Interim MMC CEO Jim Sato feels that the hospital can reduce that loss substantially through cost reduction and increased efficiency, revenue and services plus the probable designation as a Critical Access Hospital. He figures that designation could add about $700,000 to the bottom line in a year. The CAH application is approved and awaiting a site survey, which has not yet been scheduled, but Sato expects it to occur in the near future.

Race for local seats heating up

The local races for County Supervisor seats are gearing up for the June 3 Primary Election vote. Candidates are currently out making their rounds and introducing themselves to the public.
The Modoc Record will be sending each of the candidates a list of questions next week, and their responses will be published in the May 8 edition.

The seats of District II's Mike Dunn, District III's Patricia Cantrall and District IV's Shorty Crabtree are all being challenged this year.

Dunn is in a race with Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock.

Cantrall is being challenged by Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley.

Challengers to District Four's Crabtree are Ron McCullough and Jim Wills.

There will be no election required for the Alturas City Council. Alturas businessman Bobby Ray will replace George Andreasen, who is retiring, and will be sworn in June 10. Since there were three seats open and only three candidates filed, no election was necessary.

Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker will also be seated for another four-year term, as she was not challenged.

In addition to the local elections, voters will choose both the Republican and
Democratic challengers to fill the seat of 4th District U.S. Congressman John Doolittle, who is choosing to retire after this term.

Neither of the top two GOP hopefuls lives in the 4th District. Doug Ose is from Sacramento and Tom McClintock, is a termed out State Senator from Thousand Oaks.

The probable Democratic challenger is retried U.S. Air Force Lt. Colonel Charlie Brown, of Roseville, who narrowly lost to Doolittle in 2006, 46 percent to 43 percent. Brown does live in the district.
In addition there will be an election to replace outgoing State Assemblyman Doug LaMalfa.

Republican Jim Nielsen, who also does not reside in the district, is running. Etna's John Martinez is also running for the position as well as Republicans Charles Schaupp and Pete Stiglich. Democrat Paul Singh is in the race.

City Council designates Airport property for new hospital

The Alturas City Council has voted unanimously to designate the Industrial Park site at south end of the Alturas Airport property as the primary site for a new hospital.

The Modoc Frontier Health Coalition has requested the designation as a part of its ongoing $30 million grant application to Health Resource Services Administration at the federal level.

The coalition is made up of the Cedarville Rancheria, the Pit River Tribe, Fort Bidwell Tribe, Modoc County Board of Supervisors and Alturas City Council. The goal is to build a new hospital in Alturas.
The City Council is studying the Industrial Park site, making sure it will fit in with Federal Aviation Administration requirements and other issues, but believes it is a prime location for the new hospital.
First off, the City owns the land and the ground is designated already for industrial or commercial use. It also could be "donated" or used as an in-kind match for the grant funds.

Jobless rate jumps from last year

Modoc's unemployment rate for March stood at 12.1 percent, up substantially from last March when it was 9.7 percent. The jobless rate was also 12.1 percent for January and February 2008. In terms of people, 100 more people were unemployed in the county this March than last year, 470 to 370. The labor force in March 2007 was 3,830 and this year increased to 3,880. Modoc's unemployment rate is more than double the national rate of 5.1 percent and well above the state rate at 6.4 percent. Modoc ranks 49th out of the state's 58 counties for highest unemployment. Lassen County is ranked 42nd at 11.1 percent and Siskiyou is 49th also at 12.1 percent. The highest unemployment is in Colusa with 16.9 percent and Marin has the lowest at 4.1 percent The above figures are released by the California Employment Development Department.

Burn permits required May 1, 2008

Effective Thursday, May 1, 2008 at 12:00 a.m., the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) Lassen-Modoc Unit has announced the requirement of dooryard burn permits for residential burning within Lassen, Modoc and northern Plumas County.

Burning permits are required from May 1, 2008 to midnight June 30, 2008 (July 1, 2008) for all residential burning on State Responsibility Area Lands.

The following are some important things to remember regarding residential burning: Burning can only be done on permissive burn days. To find out if it is a permissive burn day, contact your local Air Pollution Control District (APCD). Lassen County - (530) 251-8110; Modoc County - (530) 233-6419; Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District (includes Chester, Quincy and Plumas County) - (530) 258-2588.

Burning can only be done during permissive times allowed. Burn Hours for Lassen County are as follows: May 1, 2008 through May 31, 2008 - Open Hours; June 1, 2008 through June 30, 2008 - 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. Burn Hours for Modoc County are as follows: May 1, 2008 through May 31, 2008 - Open Hours; June 1, 2008 through June 30, 2008 - 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. Burn Hours for Almanor Basin are as follows: May 1, 2008 through May 31, 2008 - Open Hours; June 1, 2008 through June 30, 2008 - 5 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Midnight June 30, 2008 (July 1, 2008) - Burning Suspension will be in effect until the end of declared Fire Season or until lifted by the Unit Chief.

Only natural vegetative material such as leaves, pine needles and tree trimmings may be burned. Household garbage may not be burned. Do not burn on windy days. You cannot burn in a burn barrel unless you have received authorization/permit from your APCD. You must have a signed permit in your possession while you are burning and you are responsible for maintaining control of your fire at all times (beginning May 1, 2008). Possession of a permit does not protect you if your burn escapes. You are still liable for any suppression costs. If a burn escapes your control, you are highly encouraged to seek help immediately. Wild fires can spread very quickly. A fast response from the fire department can reduce suppression cost considerably. Remember, you may be billed for suppression costs, so the sooner you seek help the better the outcome may be. Simple common sense can greatly reduce the chance of an escape. If you don't feel it's safe to conduct a burn, then don't burn.

For more information on burn permit requirements, contact your local fire department or visit our website at www.cdflmu.org or www.fire.ca.gov.

Obituaries:

Phyllis Clark

Phyllis Marie Clark, a lifelong resident of Alturas, passed away April 12, 2008 of pneumonia in Alturas, CA. Graveside memorial services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, June 27, 2008.

Phyllis Wells was born on January 1, 1927 in Alturas, CA on what today is the Mackey Ranch.
She is survived by her daughter Marie White of Alturas, CA; son Duane Clark of Billings, MT; brother Earl Wells of Vancouver, WA and two grandsons in Alturas, Jerry Atkison and family and Chris Stiles and family. The Record will publish Mrs. Clark's obituary prior to her service in June. Kerr Mortuary will be handling arrangements.

Marian K. Irvine Charrier

A memorial service was held on February 18, 2008 at Argent Court in Seguin, TX for Marian K. Irvine Charrier, 96, who passed peacefully in her sleep on February 4, 2008.

Marian was born on October 8, 1911 in Stockton, CA to James and Ethel Irvine. An older sister welcomed she and her twin. The family moved to Manteca and then to River View Ranch where they lived until 1919, when they moved to Sacramento, CA. After graduation Marian worked for the telephone company and attended secretarial school. In 1933, she met and married Frank J. Charrier. In 1935, they moved to Smith River and lived there until 1943, when they moved to Alturas.

Marian worked for the County Auditors office for several years during the war and then was Secretary to the Agriculture Commissioner from 1960 to 1964 when she retired. She was a member of the Garden Club and spent many hours on crafts.

She and Frank loved to fish, camp, travel and spending times outdoors. Her favorite trips were to Montana and Alaska.

After Frank's death in 1998, she moved to Argent Court Assisted Living in Seguin, TX, where she enjoyed new friends, card games, word games and Bible study. She was a member of Muldoon Baptist Church. She was active up until her unexpected passing, which was 46 years to the day, from her twin sister's passing.

She is survived by a son, David Charrier of Albany, OR; a daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Thad Saunders of Athens, TX; six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held on May 6, 2008 at 1 p.m. at Alturas Cemetery.

Herbert Roy Cary

Memorial services for Herbert Roy Cary were held in Klamath Falls, OR March 22, 2008 with military honors provided by members of Klamath Falls Veterans of Foreign Wars Pelican Post No. 1383 and the Marine Corps League.

Mr. Cary, 90, died of natural causes at his residence in Klamath Falls, Ore., on Wednesday, March 19, 2008, 10 days after his 90th birthday.

He was born March 9, 1918, in Ashland, Oregon, to Guy and Mable (Nye) Cary. His father worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad.

The family moved to Dunsmuir, CA and in 1930 to Alturas, CA. Herbert graduated from Modoc Union High in 1936. He attended Sacramento Junior College (now Sacramento State University) and then San Francisco State College, where he majored in music.

The railroad was hiring in 1940 so he left college and went to work for the railroad. In 1941, while living in Chinatown, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and was assigned to the 727th Railroad Battalion. He served tours of duty in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France and Germany.

After the war, he returned to work for Southern Pacific Railroad, retiring as an engineer in 1978.
Throughout his life, he enjoyed music and had his own dance band while in high school and again after moving back to Alturas following the war. He loved opera, classical music, square dancing and playing bridge and pinochle. He was a member of the Klamath Falls Duplicate Bridge Club and the Klamath Country Squares. He attended community concerts at the Ross Ragland Theater for years and always enjoyed the plays at the Linkville Playhouse since they began. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting. After his retirement, he was able to take hunting trips to British Columbia. He was an avid gardener and his garden produced an abundance of fruit and vegetables that he enjoyed sharing with everyone.

He leaves behind his adoptive family Mike and Laila Griffith of Klamath Falls, Aaron and Alexandra Griffith of Valdosta, Ga., and Mark and Micheya Griffith of Reno, NV.; special friends Dotte Schaffer and Sheila, Richard and Vesta Kerns and special caregiver Pam Wynn, all of Klamath Falls.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister C. June Bullard in 2000. Those wishing to do so may send contributions in memory of Herbert to the Klamath Community College Building Fund, 7390 S. Sixth St., Klamath Falls, OR 97603.

Ward's Klamath Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Sports

Tough week for Modoc softball

Modoc's softball team is coming off a tough week, losing five games in a row, two of which were in the Shasta Cascade League.

The Braves lost to Mt. Shasta last Friday 4-2 in the opening game and 10-7 in the nightcap. That dropped them to 4-4 in the SCL, behind both Etna and Burney and tied with Fall River. Mt. Shasta sits at 5-5. Weed at 1-5 and Trinity at 1-6.

The Braves also lost three games in the rescheduled Lassen tourney, two to big schools. Chico crushed them 20-1 and Lassen drooped them 13-2. The Braves lost the final game to Durham 7-4.

Modoc is at Weed Friday and will finish SCL play at league-leading Etna May 2.

In the opening game against Mt. Shasta last Friday, the teams were tied at 1-1 in the third and the Bears took a 3-1 led in the fourth. They added another run in the fifth to lead 4-1 and Modoc scored one in the final inning for the loss.
The Braves got down 5-2 in the first inning of the second game, and the Bears led 8-4 in the third. Mt. Shasta added two in the fifth and the Braves scored one run in the sixth.

Braves beat Bears in 2nd game

The Modoc Braves baseball team shut out the Mt. Shasta Bears 6-0 in the second game of a double header Friday, after losing the opener 9-1.

The Braves Justin Estes got the win in the second game, allowing just three hits.
The Braves scored two in the second, two in the fifth and two in the sixth.
Dee Hunsaker, James Budmark, and Irvend Chacon each went 2-for-3 at the plate to lead Modoc. Budmark hit a two-run home run with two outs.

Coach Tim MacDonnell said the team had great pitching from Estes, solid defense and timely hitting, especially from the bottom of the order.

Mt. Shasta got on top of the Braves 3-1 in the third inning in the opening game. They added one in the fourth, one in the fifth and four in the seventh.

Trent Schmidt got the loss, allowing seven hits, four walks and fanned six.
John Hughes and Chacon each went 2-for-3, while Schmidt, Ty Hammerness, Budmark, and Webb Dunn each had one hit.

The Braves lost to Lakeview April 17, 11-0 in five innings. The Honkers scored 10 runs in the second and added one in the fourth. Modoc had five errors in the second inning.

Schmidt got he loss, going one-and-two-thirds innings, allowing four hits and 10 runs, three earned. Estes went 2-for-3 at the plate.

Funk leads Braves in Yreka Invite

Modoc junior Michel Funk won the 1600 meters in the Yreka Invitational April 19, clocking a 5:53 to lead the Braves' contingent. Funk also ran a 2:47.45 in the 800 meters to place fifth.

"She was very focused and strong in the race (1600) and won leading by at least 50 meters," said Modoc coach Wendi Lowrey. "I believe that with someone pushing her in a race she can run the mile in 5:40 or even lower."


Cain Madrigal also had a good day, finished seventh in the 1600 meters, with a time of 5:03.77. He also finished 10th in the 800 meters, running a 2:18.77.
David Holloway ran 58.37 in the 400 meters to place 11th and has been dropping his times with each race.

At the big John Frank Invitational April 12, Modoc was led by Kevin Jones who pole-vaulted 11 feet even for third place. Cam Hall ran an 18.25 for seventh in the 110 high hurdles and placed ninth in the 300 hurdles at 45.49.

Madrigal took ninth in the 1600 meters, running a respectable 4:57.47. Holloway ran a 58.1 to place 15th in the 400 meters. Newmie Wilson was 23rd in the shot at 36-6.5 and 26th in the discus at 84-11.

In the junior varsity boys division, Austin Hoy triple jumped 31-06.75 for 17th; Chris McMasters to the discus 62-05 for 29th and Nick McMasters tossed it 45-08 for 33rd.

For the JV girls, Rebecca Field laced 10th in the shot at 23-02.25 and in the discus at 61-05. Beth Colbert placed 20th in the 1600 meters at 6:43.
The Braves are headed to the Mt. Shasta Time Trials today.

Jr. Fish Derby in Big Valley

A Junior Fishing Derby is all set for June 14 at the Ash Creek Wildlife Area in Big Valley.

The derby is free to all kids ages 15 and under and there will be special prizes for the largest fish and smallest fish caught, plus prizes for all anglers. The contest will run from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

The event is sponsored by the Pit River Rod and Gun Club and the Department of Fish and Game, Ash Creek Wildlife Area.

Anglers need to pre-register and may pick up application forms at the Ash Creek Wildlife Area Office or Adin Supply. For more information call 294-584 or 299-3414

May 1, 2008

News

Hospital District vote will go to spring

The ballot issue on whether to form the Last Frontier Healthcare District for Modoc Medical Center will now be held in a special election next spring.

The Save Our Hospital Committee voted last Wednesday night to move the election to spring rather than try to get all of the preliminary work done in time to make deadlines for the November General Election.

The committee is still working on the boundaries of the district, which may have to be adjusted to ensure they are not overlapping with the Surprise Valley Hospital District on Cedar Pass.

One of the key elements in the process is an application to LAFCO, the Local Agency Formation Commission for formation of the special district. That application is expected to be completed in the near future. By pushing the election to spring, the committee will have more time to get the application essentials put together correctly. A public hearing will be held on a resolution to form the district.

While the extra time will be helpful, SOH was also concerned that if the issue was on the November ballot, it could have gotten lost amid the other propositions. In the spring it will be on a special election ballot.

At that time the district will have to have a simple majority to pass while funding the district with a special assessment will need two-thirds majority.

Another effort to building a new hospital in Alturas is still in the works as well, but is not related to the hospital district effort at this point.

The two projects will intersect in the future if the grant of about $30 million is approved by HRSA, the federal Health Resources Services Administration. The group heading the new hospital effort is the Modoc Frontier Health Coalition.

The coalition is made up of the Cedarville Rancheria, the Pit River Tribe, Fort Bidwell Tribe, Modoc County Board of Supervisors and Alturas City Council. The goal is to build a new hospital building in Alturas.

The City Council is recommending the Industrial Park site at the Alturas Airport, if it will fit in with Federal Aviation Administration requirements and other issues.

The City owns the land and the ground is designated already for industrial or commercial use. It also could be "donated" or used as an in-kind match for the grant funds.

Hospital CT Scan will start on May 6

Modoc Medical Center's Radiology Department is excited to introduce its new service to the community. The new Computed Tomography Scanner (CT scan) has been a long standing need in the community. Thanks to a generous donation from Jessie and Mark Milano, that need has now been met.

The scanner is set to arrive on May 1st. It will come housed in its self contained trailer, and will be ready for its first patient on May 6th. The CT scanner will be behind the hospital.

MMC is planning an Open House on June 14th from 10:00 to 12:00 noon. Community members are invited and will be able to see the CT scanner and talk to the Radiology staff.

The radiology staff at MMC has spent the last several weeks preparing for the new CT scanner. MMC's technologists Bill Boland and Rebecca Hellman each completed a five-day training at the Phillips Training Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Additionally they have traveled to other facilities to observe CT scan exams.

MMC has hired C.W. Arterbery, an experienced technologist with six years of CT experience. He will be a definite asset to complement the CT services.

MMC has contracted with Peter Halt M.D., and Rebecca Dyson M.D., experienced Radiologists who specialize in CT interpretation. They are located in Mt. Shasta and will work on a rotation basis. They are available 24 hours, 7 days a week to interpret CT scans. Martin Kernberg, M.D. also works with Drs. Halt and Dyson, and serves as relief coverage.

"There are many different areas of the body that can be scanned and each exam is a little different," explained Bill Boland MMC's Radiology Department Manager. "Here is a general idea of what happens. The patient lies on the examination table which is then positioned, with the aid of a laser light, to the areas of interest. The scanner, shaped like a large donut, emits a thin, focused beam of x-ray that goes through the body to become a very thin slice. The exam table begins to move through this focused area as the beam rotates around the part to be scanned."

"These slices of information are picked up by opposing detectors that sends this information to a computer. The computer analyzes this information; maybe thousands of bits of information, then generates an image. These images are what the radiologist reads. The image can also be reconstructed so that the radiologist can see the organ in a three dimensional image. It is truly marvelous the power and scope of today's technology," continued Bill Boland.

"Some tests do require special preparation, like having nothing to eat or drink; others require contrast or a dye so that the body part can be better visualized."

"CT scans are frequently ordered by primary care providers to help in the treatment of their patient. These are scheduled so that the patient can have adequate time to prepare for the exam. However, there are emergency situations due to serious injuries that CT scans are an invaluable tool in quick diagnosis of the patient's injury. In the past, the emergency room doctors had to send these patients to larger facilities to obtain this test. Now we have this life-saving tool here. This test can now be done without traveling 100 miles or more. This may also save the patient and their family the cost of an emergency medical flight and transportation back home if the scan is negative for serious injury."
"We hope the CT scanner proves to be a significant benefit to the people of Modoc County and look forward to seeing everyone at the open house," said Bill Boland.

Attempted murder charges in stabbing

An Alturas man, Grady White, age 50, was arrested alleging attempted murder Sunday night. He is accused of stabbing his landlord Gary Sweetin, age 45, five to six times, during an altercation.

According to Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes, White and Sweetin were involved in a disagreement at the 412 E. North Street home of White Sunday night about 8:45 p.m.

Barnes said a fight ensued and White is suspected of using a folding knife with a five-or-six-inch blade to stab Sweetin, causing serious injury.

Barnes said White fled the scene, went down the steep embankment to the Pit River where he removed his bloody shirt and pants and then apparently went to a friend's home. He also had discarded the knife and police are searching for the weapon.

White was discovered near the friend's house and was captured as he tried to exit out the back.
White was booked into the Modoc County Jail and Sweetin was transported to Mercy Hospital in Redding where he is recovering.

Hunger issues coming home to roost with high costs

With regular gas prices in Modoc hovering at the $4.05 per gallon levels, heating oil costs going through the roof, and food prices increasing, local agencies are being proactive.

TEACH, Inc. is hosting a "Regional Listening Session" May 8 at Alturas City Hall, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. which will directly address hunger issues in the community and seek out ideas on how to best provide healthy food resources for low-income individuals, seniors and families.

In addition, today at City Hall, the Modoc County Transportation Commission is holding a public meeting concerning transportation issues and ideas for those same people and the disabled.

TEACH has been experiencing gradual increases in the need for help for heating and utility expenses and for the food bank services. Those needs are expected to increase, especially if costs continue to rise.

TEACH is inpartnership with the California Association of Food Banks and the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties, an affiliate of America's Second Harvest: The Nations' Food Bank Network.

This special listening session will address the following three objectives: develop an understanding and appreciation of emergency food services being undertaken by individuals, organizations and communities in the area; assess the type of resources needed to further support the development of emergency food access in the local area; and identify specific steps that can be taken to increase the amounts of fresh produce available for low income people in the area.

For more information on the session, call TEACH at 530-233-4575, ext. 41.

Modoc Forest roads subject of meetings

The Modoc National Forest will soon begin the formal NEPA (National Environmental Process Act) process for travel management, similar to other Forests across the country.

Over the past eight months, the Forest has held four listening sessions and many informal group discussions. Vehicle access to most of the Forest has been in place for many years. Currently, the Forest has about 5,000 miles of designated system roads for public use. The Forest is not proposing to close these existing National Forest System (NFS) roads through this process, with the exception of one road, (Boles Creek), that will be closed for resource protection.

What is proposed, based on national direction, is restricting motorized travel to designated routes and prohibiting cross country motorized travel. A number of inventoried non-system roads are proposed to be added to the NFS road system. Seasonal travel restrictions are proposed that will reduce damage to roads during periods of wet road conditions. We have also proposed to limit the amount of OHV use on our major roads to reduce travel hazards to the public.

Four open houses to discuss the proposed actions of the Modoc National Forest's Travel Management are scheduled. These open houses are an opportunity to informally interact with Forest staff about the proposed actions and accompanying maps. Open houses will be from 6 to 8 p.m. in the following order: May 19, Cedarville Ranger District Office, 385 Wallace St., Cedarville; May 20 Modoc National Forest Office, 800 W 12th St., Alturas; May 28, Adin Community Memorial Hall, Adin; May 29, Honkers, 810 Main St., Tulelake.

Last fall, public input was received at a number of meetings, including four open houses in November. A proposed action was developed based on public input and resource specialist evaluation. In the next month, a notice of intent will be published in the Federal Register. This will be the official start of public information gathering.

"We listened to the comments and concerns of people at the first round of workshops," said Forest Supervisor Stan Sylva. "We've carefully considered what people told us and we've looked at and discussed each segment of the inventoried non system routes proposed to be added to our permanent road system. Now I'm asking Forest users to look at our best effort and share with us your thoughts about the proposed action maps."

As soon as the Federal Register notice is published, maps of the proposed action will be available online and on CD. Hard copies of the maps will be available for viewing at all Modoc National Forest offices.

People's comments on the proposed action maps are vital for development of our updated travel system. The Forest will develop alternatives to the proposed action from the comments that are sent in and that we gather at the open houses. The interdisciplinary planning team will use your feedback to help identify the significant issues and evaluate environmental effects for proposed changes to our road system. Based on this analysis, a draft Environmental Impact Statement will be prepared.
For additional information or to schedule a Forest Service person to talk to your group, call Laura Williams at (530) 233-8713. Learn more about travel management at www.fs.fed.us/r5/modoc.

Obituaries:

Alton ‘Skip' Wood

Lifelong Modoc resident Alton Francis "Skip" Wood passed away Monday, April 28, 2008, at his home in Alturas, CA. A Celebration of Life and potluck will be held Saturday, May 17 at 1 p.m. at the Alturas Elks Lodge. Born in Alturas, CA on October 3, 1939, Skip graduated from Modoc High School. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and a long-time employee of the U.S. Forest Service, retiring from the Modoc National Forest Supervisors Office in Alturas, CA. His wife is Patricia (Morrell) Wood. Mr. Wood's obituary will be published at a future date.

Grace Marie Drown

Former Alturas business owner and long-time Alturas resident Grace Marie Drown of Alturas, passed away April 24, 2008 in Alturas, CA. Mrs. Drown was 98.

Born to Effie and Judge George Black in Tonganoxie, Kansas on November 6, 1909, Grace graduated from high school in Eads, Colorado, where her father was Judge for Kiowa County, CO. Her first marriage at age 18 was to Lester Latham in Colorado. In her mid-20s, she was later married to John Drown in Colorado. They moved to Modoc County while John was working with the Coastal Geodetic Survey and settled in Alturas in 1935. About two years later, they bought Drown's Motel, which they operated until 1960. Grace was an exceptionally hard worker and immaculate housekeeper. She cleaned the motel units herself, mowed the lawns, did all the laundry and ran the mangle for all the sheets. She learned to crochet from "Granny Drown" as she rocked one of her sick children in her arms and took up crocheting beautifully. Grace had also worked at the Warner Hotel and Glad's Dress Shop until she opened her own shop called Grace's Dress Shop on Main Street, Alturas in the Fall of 1966. Her shop was located next to Hart's and where Modoc County Dept. of Social Services is today.

Grace's beautiful and immaculate garden at her home was a testament to her love of gardening. She was feisty and battled an amazing comeback 10 years ago, when she fell in her garden and suffered heatstroke and a core temperature of 109-111.

Grace enjoyed many trips across and around the U.S., traveling with her great, long-time friends and travel buddies Recy Hicks and Audrey Wickenden, who made the traveling even more fun and memorable on the Modoc Senior Bus Trips during the 1980s. She also loved to play pinochle, sewed beautifully and was a member of the Order of Eastern Star and Rebekah Lodge in Alturas. She was preceded in death by her husband John, six sisters and one brother and her parents.

She is survived by her two sons Gene Latham of Gretna, Nebraska and Jackie Drown, Sevierville, TN; two daughters Gertrude Lybarger, Eugene, OR and Della Cooley, Alturas, CA; grandchildren Greg Latham, Steven and Elise Latham, Jeff and Julie Latham, Sharon Latham, Michael Drown, Kathy and Ray Storall, Gene and Marlene Hamilton, Rick and Terri Hamilton, Kim and Joe Henderson, Terry Lybarger, Danny and Pam Lybarger, Teresa and Keith Jacques, Brenda and David Olwin, Diana and Rick McGee, Laura and Ron Capilla; 25 great-grandchildren: Rakaye, Brandi, Gregory, Matthew, Tim, Jennelle, Ashley, Shanna, Leanne, Kelsy, Brett, Ryan, Paula, Micheal, Kayla, Taylor Rae, Jon, Ryan, Hunter, Nick, Rikki, Lexxi, Danni, Grant and great-great grandchildren: Breanna, Brittany, Kelsee, Gabriel, Micheal, Zachary, Conner, Carson and Jason.

Dr. Ben Zandstra held services at Kerr Mortuary Chapel on April 28 at 1 p.m. Kerr Mortuary handled arrangements.

Memorial donations may be directed to Warnerview Convalescent Hospital, Grace's home for the past six years, where her family is grateful that she was so lovingly cared for.

Darin Ray Young

Darin Ray Young, age 43, of Redding California passed away as a result of a car accident in Trinity County on April 22, 2008.

Darin was born on November 25, 1964 in Alturas, CA. He was a manager for Wingfoot Tires and a resident of Redding for the last 20 years. Darin was a loving husband and father. He was an avid golfer and played in the annual Make A Wish golf fundraiser. He also enjoyed reading and participating in many outdoor activities. While in Alturas, Darin served as a volunteer with the Alturas Volunteer Fire Department.

He is survived by his wife Stephanie Young and daughter, Gracie Young of Redding, his parents Don and Beverly Young of Alturas; his brothers Dan and David Young of Alturas; his sister, Hollie Taylor of Auburn, CA, and his maternal grandmother, Ruby Riley of Alturas. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and numerous dear friends who will miss him greatly and will always value the short time shared in his life.

Darin was laid to rest in Redding on Saturday April 26, 2008. The family requests that donations be made to Make A Wish Foundation of Sacramento in memory of Darin Young at 3841 N. Freeway Blvd, Suite 185, Sacramento, California 95834.

Daniel ‘Bud' Fulfer

Daniel "Bud" Fulfer, age 76, passed away at his home in Adin, CA, on Tuesday, April 22, 2008.  He was born in Okalahoma in 1931, the youngest of seven children. He has spent the past 66 years in Modoc County except for the four years in which he served his country in the Navy during the Korean War.  He was Honorably Discharged in 1954, with the following service ribbons: National Defense, KPUC, Good Conduct, United Nations, Koreans Service, Navy Occupation.  Before shipping out, he married his sweetheart, "Bea" whom he has been married to for 55 years. In addition to his wife, Bud is survived by his children and their spouses, daughter, Debbie and her husband Dr. Bradley Baker, and son, Jeff Fulfer and his wife Cindy. 

Grandchildren include: Tel and Heather Fulfer, Talor Fulfer, Logan, Lauren, and Gabrielle Pearson.  He is also survived by his sister June Boyd of Alturas, CA and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bud retired from the California Department of Transportation.  His life was devoted to caring for his family and being active in the community in which he lived.  He was involved with the Adin Fire Department, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and served as an EMT on the Adin Ambulance. He also loved to fish and hunt, and in the last few years could always be found in the bleachers at his grandchildren's sporting events or on the Sacramento River fishing.  Bud enjoyed sharing life with his friends and extensive adopted family.  He will always be remembered for his sense of humor and giving nature. He will be deeply missed by many.

Services will be held May 1, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. at The Veterans Cemetery in Igo, CA. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to:  Big Valley Boosters Club, P.O. Box 102, Bieber, CA  96009. Arrangements made by Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Herman Tipton

Herman Tipton, a resident of Alturas for 60 years, passed away April 23, 2008, in Redding, CA. Mr. Tipton was 79.

Herman was born on August 5, 1928 in Knox, Ohio. Later, his family moved to Poe Valley, OR where he grew up. He graduated from Henley High School in Klamath Falls, OR in 1946. He entered the United States Army in 1950 where he served two years as a corporal, followed by two years in the Reserve. He settled in Alturas where he worked for Pacific Power & Light Company (P.P.&L.) for 41 years, and was also a member of the Alturas Elks Lodge 1756. After he retired, Herman enjoyed working at home, farming, gardening, and woodworking. He also enjoyed many other outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and riding four-wheelers.

Herman leaves behind his beloved wife of 35 years, Dolores Tipton of Alturas; sons Mark Tipton and wife Debbie of Redding, CA Tony Tipton and wife Diane of Redding, CA; step-daughters Debbie Kuhn of San Andreas, CA, Cindy Harness and husband Buck of Dorris, CA, Brenda Angus and husband Casey of Fallon, NV; step-son Brian Perry of Alturas; grandchildren Ashley Tipton, J.P. Lynn, Justin and Jamie Kuhn, Stacy Fussell, Ryan and Kayla Harness, Jace and Jordan Angus, Amanda Gwin; great-grandchildren Berkley Lynn, Dylan and Aliya Fussell, Kaci Gwin.
No service will be held upon Herman's request.

Steffney L. Tracy

Steffney L. Tracy, 44, beloved daughter of Aloha and Edgar Schaefer of Alturas, CA, and a former Alturas resident from 1987 until 1993, passed away on April 21, 2008 at Mercy Hospital, Redding, CA after succumbing to a prolonged medical illness.

Born March 17, 1964 at Langley A.F.B., Virginia, she graduated from high school in Lincoln, CA, where she was a member of Future Business Leaders of America and Spanish Club. She enjoyed playing the drums from grade school through her freshman year of high school in Pacific Grove. At Sierra College in Rocklin, CA she studied business in addition to taking typing, shorthand and bookkeeping classes.

While in Modoc, Steffney was employed with Modoc County Dept. of Social Services where her skills in Spanish were utilized as an interpreter in addition to her office skills. She enjoyed singing in the Modoc Performing Arts Theater production of "Pirates of Penzance."

Her marriage to Carl Lee Tracy in Reno, later ended in divorce, after the family relocated to Susanville in 1993. Steffney worked at the Lassen County Dept. of Social Services, then the California Correctional Center as an office assistant in the Records Department. She became involved with the State Employees Union as an officer and attended meetings throughout the state. She took an early retirement two and a half years ago for medical reasons, but remained active in the Retired CCC Employees Union and looked forward to the next big meeting. She had enjoyed her involvement with the Susanville Community Theater productions, including her part as a nun and sang in the chorus for "Sound of Music." She also enjoyed learning to play the hand bells for a Christmas performance for the Susanville Community Theater.

It was the magnificence and power of the buffalo she once told her mother, that drew her to collect items depicting buffalo from the time she was 17.

Steffney is survived by her parents Edgar and Aloha Schaefer of California Pines, Alturas, CA; brothers Edgar N. Schaefer, II, known as "Gar" and his wife Bryce of Modesto, and brother Ray C. Schaefer of Denver, CO; her daughter Kassandra L. Ebert, age 24, and spouse Charles and their children (Steffney's grandchildren) Hailee Joyce and Hannah Charlene "Charlee" of Susanville; Steffney's son Bradley Alexander Tracy, age 15-1/2, of Susanville and her daughter Kimberley Joyce Rouse, age 10, of Susanville, CA; aunt "Tante" Jinx Cotton of Big Horn, Wyoming; cousins W. Reed Cotton and Gregory T. cotton; Mark Wirth, his wife Laurie and their daughter AnnaMarie of Truckee, CA; Schaefer aunts and cousins in Indiana, Ohio and former husband Carl Tracy of Sacramento.

Services will be held Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Keith Hooper at Lassen Missionary Baptist Church in Susanville. Private burial.

Please consider contributions for Steffney's children in care of an account set up at U.S. Bank in their grandmother's name: Aloha Schaefer.

Evelyn Pauline Tollett

Evelyn Pauline Tollett, 93, passed away peacefully at her home in Millville, CA on April 24, 2008.
Evelyn was born in San Francisco January 29, 1915.  She married Harold Tollett in Carson City, NV on August 3, 1933.

Evelyn is survived by her husband of 74 plus years Harold of Millville; son David and wife Gladys of Waldport, Oregon; daughter Lorale Tollett of Millville; daughter Judy Cockrell and husband Bob of Eagleville, CA; daughter Wendy Benner and husband John of Cedarville, CA, son Tim and wife Teresa of Dillon, Montana, and daughter Milissa Melamed and husband Scott of Ventura, California.  Evelyn was preceded in death by son John of Millville. Evelyn's life revolved around her children, 14 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren.

Throughout her life she enjoyed fly fishing, hunting deer and elk.  She passed on her passion for the outdoors to everyone. Evelyn and Harold lived in Oregon, Washington and Montana, besides living in a number of places in California, including many years in Cedarville.  Evelyn will be missed by all who knew her.

Memorial services were held on Monday April 28, 2008 at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Redding.

Donations in her name may be made to Surprise Valley Hospital, P.O. Box 246, Cedarville, CA 96104.

Marian Charrier

Graveside services for Marian K. Irvine Charrier, 96, will be held on Tuesday, May 6, at 1 p.m. at Alturas Cemetery. Mrs. Charrier passed away Feb. 4, 2008 in Seguin, TX. She had lived in Alturas from 1943 until 1998 and had worked for the Modoc County Auditors for several years during the war and then was Secretary to the Agriculture Commissioner from 1960 to 1964 when she retired. She was a member of the Garden Club.

After her husband Frank's death in 1998, she moved to Argent Court Assisted Living in Seguin, TX.
She is survived by a son, David Charrier of Albany, OR; a daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Thad Saunders of Athens, TX; six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great grandchildren.

Sports

Funk, Hall, Madrigal, Holloway, Jones win at Mt. Shasta

Michel Funk won three events for the Modoc girls varsity at the Mt. Shasta meet last weekend, the 400 meters in 1:10.12, the 800 meters in 2:48.05 and the 1600 meters in 6:03.75.

Cam Hall won the boys varsity 110 high hurdles in 18.28 and David Holloway won the 400 meters in 58.14. Cain Madrigal won the 800 meters in 2:21.37 and the 1600 meters in 5:06.82. Susanna Jones won the girls 3200 meters in 15:02.17.

The varsity boys 4x400 relay team of Hall, Madrigal, Kevin Jones and David Holloway won the event in 3:53.64.

Hall was second in the 300 hurdles at 45.54. Holloway was sixth in the 200 meters in 26.38.

John Crnkovic was third in the varsity shot at 36-06, while Newmie Wilson was fourth at 36-01. Holloway was fifth in the triple jump at 31-01.5. Kevin Jones was sixth in the long jump at 14-01.5 and in the high jump at 4-06.

For the junior varsity boys, Matt Mayes won the 200 meters in 24.86 was second in the10 meters in 12.32. Scott Stillinger was second in the high jump at 4-10, third in the triple jump at 30-05.25 and fourth in the long jump at 14-02. Willie Hamann was second in the 3200 meters and Austin Hoy was second in the triple jump at 31-01 and the 1600 meters in 5:28.34. Chris McMasters was third in the shot at 32-02 and Nick McMasters was sixth in the discus at 49-0. Alex Warner was sixth in the 100 meters at 14.09 and fifth in the 200 meters in 29.57. Gustavo Chavez was fourth in the 400 meters in 61:02.4 and Tyler Wood was sixth 1:10.51. Wood was fifth in the 1600 meters at 5:58.61. Chavez was fifth in the 800 meters in 2:40.62 and Hoy was sixth at 2:40.64.

For the girl's varsity, Rachel Field was second in the shot at 27-08 and the discus at 86-0. Beth Colbert was second in the long jump at 11-06. Jones was third in the 1600 meters in 6:30.21. Rebecca Field was fourth in the shot at 24-0 and in the discus at 60-06. Colbert was sixth in the 800 meters at 3:07.64 fourth in 1600 meters at 6:55.42.

Maddie Halvorson won the junior varsity girls 200 meters in 31.67 and Jordan Nolan won the 400 meters in 1:13.41. Rachel Bratton was second in the 1600 meters in 6:57.48. Deanna Jones was second in the shot at 20-01. Danielle Grier was second in the 100 high hurdles at 21-44, Jessie Kresge was third at 21.61, Jenelle Stillinger fourth at 21.62. Lloyd was second in the 300 hurdles at 1:04.05. Kresge was third at 1:05.45, Celeste Yamagiwa fourth at 1:05.83, Stillinger fifth at 1:06.63 and Grier sixth at 1:09.92.

Nolan was fourth in the 200 meters in 34.0. Monica Lloyd was third in the 400 meters in 1:19.75. Bratton was fourth in the 3200 meters in 15:40.03. Grier was third in the discus at 51-05, Samantha Clay was fifth at 48-01.

Braves softball wins four straight

Modoc's varsity softball team won four games this weekend, including two Shasta Cascade League games against Weed. Etna is leading the SCL with a 9-1 league mark and Modoc travels to Etna Friday to finish the regular season.

The Braves are tied with Fall River for second place with 6-4 records. Mt. Shasta is at 7-5; Burney comes in at 4-6; Weed at 1-7 and Trinity at 1-8. This final weekend could see some big changes in the standings.
Last Friday, Modoc beat Weed 1-0 in the opening game and won the second game 4-1. Modoc scored its one run in the first game in the sixth inning. The Braves had to come back in the second game, breaking a 1-1 tie with a three-run sixth inning.

The Braves also beat Lost River last week in a pair on non-league games, 3-1 in the opener, and 5-3 in the nightcap.

Modoc led 1-0 in the second inning of the first game and Lost River tied it at 1-1 in the fourth, The Braves scored one in the sixth and one in the seventh.

In the second game, Modoc trailed 1-0 in the first and 3-2 in the third. The Braves won the game with a three-run seventh inning.

Weed wins SCL golf: Modoc 2nd

The Weed golf team shot a 385 April 24 to win the Shasta Cascade League Championship at Arrowhead in Alturas.

Modoc's Braves shot a respectable 407 to place second, followed by Mt. Shasta's 473.

The top 10 players from league competed in a 10-person tournament April 30 to decide the six All-league honors. Daniel Morgan, Jeff Solomon and Josue Madrigal qualified for the event. The results were not available.

Both Weed and Modoc qualify for the North Section Division II Championships to be held at Arrowhead May 6 with five other teams and qualifying individuals. The top two teams, top four individuals and any individual who shoots 79 or lower qualify for the North Section Championships at Graeagle Meadows May 13.

Weed's Jake West shot a 71 for the top score at the league championships with teammate Scott Lassen shooting 72. Modoc's Daniel Morgan was third with a 76 and Solomon followed with a 77, which tied with Weed's David Anderson. Drew Morgan shot 79 for Modoc; Josue Madrigal shot an 82; Jeff Barclay carded a 93 and Dejah Montague a 129.

Modoc finishes baseball at Etna

The Modoc Braves baseball team will finish its season Friday at Etna.

Modoc beat Weed last week 5-3 and 10-6 at Weed.

In the first game, Modoc scored two in the first, and three in the seventh on eight hits. Weed scored two in the third and one in the sixth.

John Hughes got the win, after relieving Justin Estes in the fourth. Hughes allowed two hits, struck out four and walked one. Estes had allowed two runs on five hits and fanned one.

Trent Schmidt led the hitting going 3-for-4 and Ty Hammerness was 2-for-3.

In the second game, Modoc scored two in the second, two in the fifth, three in the sixth and three in the seventh. Weed scored two in the third, two in the fourth one in the fifth and one in the sixth. Schmidt got the win, allowing six runs on five hits, fanned 13 and walked seven.

Hammerness went 2-for-3 at the plate; Irvend Chacon and Hughes were 2-for-4.

The Braves lost to Bonanza 10-1 April 29 as Bonanza scored three in the third, three in the fifth and four in the seventh. Modoc scored its only run in the fifth.

Schmidt got the loss, going three innings, allowing three runs on three hits, fanned four and walked a batter. James Budmark and Estes each had one hit, as bonanza pitcher Roy Hobbs held the Braves to just two.
Modoc beat Lost River 12-0 April 24. The Braves scored three in the second, two in the third and added seven in the fifth. Hughes got the win, going two innings, allowing three hits, struck out three and walked a batter.

Webb Dunn and Chacon were 2-for-3 and Estes was 2-for-4.

The Braves are 5-13 overall for the season and 4-6 in league.

 

May 8, 2008

News

Rural schools money still 'Up in the air'

If there is one constant about the future for the Secure Roads and School funding, it is that the U.S. Congress and the administration remain ineffective.

Modoc County Superintendent of School Gary Jones spent part of last week in Washington D.C, with a contingent of school leaders trying to impress legislators on just how important the finding was for schools in the west.

"The best I can say, is the issue remains up in the air," Jones said this week. "It is frustrating."
Jones met with Senator Diane Feinstein, whom he said was fairly non-committal -- if not a bit negative -- about the possibility of getting the Secure Roads and Schools funding passed and signed by the President this year.

Senator Barbara Boxer was a bit more optimistic, Jones said, but neither Senator offered a positive note on getting the funding through the necessary channels. Boxer, he said, was not reassuring.
In addition, Jones met with Congressman John Doolittle, who wanted to learn more about the Medi-Cal Administrative, MAA, funding. He had voted against the last MAA bill (amounting to about $700,000 annually here), but seemed genuinely interested and more concerned once he found out how that funding was used in the district.

In total the Secure Roads and School funding amounts to about $1.3 million to Modoc Schools and the MAA money adds another $700,000.

Jones said here is still a chance the funding could be added to the Defense Appropriations bill this year.

The county office and all district in the county have been advised not to budget the Secure Schools or MAA funding as revenue this next year. The schools in the county are largely able to avoid layoffs for this year, but a continuing loss of those funds would impact severely in the next budget cycle.
All school districts and county schools offices in the northstate and once again going into a budget years without firm numbers from either the state of federal governments.

Jones remains very concerned. "Our schools wait and hope for funding from Forest Reserve and Medi-Cal Administrative Activities 'MAA.' The annual loss to our local schools is $2.1 million – an average shortfall of $1,000 per student," he said.

If the dismal budget projections and realities continue, jobs will not be secure for long into the future.
Jones is confident that even with the impending budget cuts at the state and federal level, the county office and local school districts "have necessary reserves to withstand the initial affects of such large losses in revenue."

He continues to stress, however, that school systems cannot sustain annual losses of this size without changes to educational programs and services.

Haralson trial set for Oct. 15 in Modoc

Robert Chad Haralson, age 32, the suspect in the 1992 murder of Betty Lou Parks, will go on trial tentatively scheduled to start Oct. 15 in Modoc Superior Court.

The trial date was set Tuesday following a preliminary hearing. Haralson has entered a not guilty plea in the case. The trial is expected to last four to five weeks. A trial confirmation hearing will be held in June

The Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested Haralson May 25 in Casper, Wyoming. Modoc had issued an arrest warrant in late April for Haralson after the initial suspect in the case, Christopher Bradbury, accepted a plea bargain and identified him as the person who killed Parks.

As a part of the plea deal, the murder charge was dropped, and Bradbury pled guilty to an accessory after the fact charge. Bradbury will identify and testify against Haralson.

Parks, who had just graduated from Modoc Middle School, was reported missing in June 1992 and her remains were found by a hiker at a remote location in Modoc Estates in May 1993.

The case languished for more than a decade in the Modoc County Sheriff's Office before finally being turned over to the Department of Justice cold case investigator. That investigation led to the arrest of Bradbury in Shasta County.

Haralson was 17 and an Alturas resident at the time of the crime. John Webster of Redding, who was appointed by the court, is representing him.

Hospital debt grows to $10.9 million

Modoc Medical Center posted an increase of $422,088 to its county debt in April, according to Modoc County Auditor Judi Stevens.

The hospital debt went up to $10,894,425 at the end of April from $10,472,337 at the end of March.
The debt continues to go the wrong way, as it was $10,423,955 at the end of February. That compares to a debt of $10,254,168 at the end of January.

The debt was $9,796,084 at the end of December.

The debt has increased since September 2005's $4,690,812 by a total of $6,203,613.

Wetlands reserve dustup in Surprise Valley

Irritated and concerned farmers and ranchers from Surprise Valley turned out in force last week in a meeting held at the USFS Building in Alturas to question the wisdom of setting aside about 180 acres of land on a privately owned ranch as a state wetlands reserve.

Concern for water rights, property rights and a healthy dose of suspicion where government agencies are concerned brought out over 40 Surprise Valley residents to voice their objections.

Hosted by Matt Drechsel, a local conservationist, and Alan Forkey, a state conservationist for the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), residents vented their objections and concerns for the proposed wetlands project in their backyard.

Forkey opened the discussion by thoroughly and understandingly explained California's Wetland Reserve Program (WRP). "I do want to be very open with you. I don't know who all is going to be responding, but I would be willing to answer questions from anybody as we get into this discussion."
He also cited the WRP's goals and its successes, noting that the program is completely voluntary and utilizes only marginal agricultural land. "We're an agricultural agency," said Forkey, emphasizing the farmer-friendly nature of the agency. "We're approaching 100,000 acres in the state of California."

Voicing his concerns, a prominent Surprise Valley rancher said, "What I don't like about it is nobody every notified me that this was happening."

Forkey's response was that the program does not require them to inform neighbors. "As with every farm bill program that we have administered, there has never been a requirement that we have to go ask the neighbors if it's okay for somebody to participate," he said. "We oftentimes meet with adjacent landowners just to help them know what we are doing. If they have concerns, if there are issues related to the restoration they think is going to negatively impact their property, then we try to work those issues out in the restoration plan phase of the project."

The primary issue addressed in the meeting was how this easement would affect water rights. "We don't buy water rights," said Forkey. "Not only do we not control the water rights, the landowner on a WRP easement legally cannot apply water to the easement area, cannot move water around the easement area and cannot take water off the easement area unless NRCS provides them with a use authorization …"

Forkey repeatedly insisted that the state's contract with the applicants in Surprise Valley would have no effect on current water rights. "Our main goal is to try and restore hydrology naturally. … We take advantage of what's there," he said, emphasizing his point. "If you own water rights, we are not going to affect them."

Drechsel identified the water rights issue as a county problem that would have to be dealt with elsewhere rather than by the NRCS.

Forkey agreed. "Wouldn't this issue exist, regardless of whether (or not) there was an easement?" he said. "We, as an agency, would never try and presuppose what those decrees were. That has to be determined by the courts."

But local ranchers and farmers were unimpressed and skeptical. They took the position that giving a government agency any foothold on private property in their valley would ultimately lead to a loss of one or another of their rights. "We hear the horror stories of legal battles where somebody has lost their rights," said one woman from the back of the room.

Emotions ran high throughout the meeting. At one point, strongly worded accusations flew between landholders as NRCS people looked on in silence.

Ranchers repeatedly cited endangered species issues that have been used in the past to take away property rights and restrict land use. "What happens to these cranes?" asked another resident. "Will you shut my water off to give them water?"

Resident landholders repeatedly expressed their distrust of government, due to past experience with lawsuits brought by environmentalist groups to force compliance by private landholders with state and federal regulations. "We're talking about private property rights here," said one meeting attendee. "I don't want to interfere with their private property rights; I don't want them to interfere with mine."
Except for the applicants to the WRP program, all were plainly distrustful of anything said by other Drechsel or Forkey. Saying, "There's a bundle of rights that go with any piece of property," that same landholder explained that this situation is like no other the NRCS has sought to put into the WRP program and that it required special consideration.

Sean Curtis, the chairman for the Modoc County Land Use Committee and local Farm Bureau representative, made the point that had the NRCS made an early effort to open a dialog with Surprise Valley landowners rather than waiting until late in the process, these issues might have already been resolved.

City building picks up

Building in the City of Alturas got a boost in April for the beginning of a rehabilitation project of the Alturas Meadows on East 12th Street.

The building permit total for April was $170,383, of which $121,716 came in the apartment complex project. A remodel, and several re-roofing projects made up the remainder.

In February, only two building permits were issued, worth an estimated $400, one of the lowest totals recorded.

March was better, relatively, as four permits worth an estimated $11,662 were issued.

Obituaries:

Alton 'Skip' Wood

Alton Francis "Skip" Wood passed away Monday, April 28, 2008, at his home in Alturas, CA. He was 68.

Throughout the years, Skip and wife Pat have opened their home and hearts to offer shelter, guidance and love, touching the lives of countless young people.

Skip was born in Alturas, CA on October 3, 1939, to Herb and Marcell (Wheeler) Wood. He spent the first three to four years in Cedarville. In the meantime, his parents divorced. In 1941, he moved to Alturas and lived with his father and stepmother, brother and sister. He attended Alturas Grammar School and graduated from Modoc Union High in 1958. He immediately joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served as an MP at Miramar Naval Station in San Diego for his entire duration from 1958 until his discharge as a Lance Corporal in 1961. When he was discharged, he stayed in Vacaville for a short time before returning to Alturas.

He met his future wife, Patricia Ann Morrell, the summer of 1962, while she was home from college. They were engaged in November 1962 and married December 29, 1962, in a double ceremony with Skip's brother Ronnie in Reno, NV. Their first son, Shaun Kevin was born October 11, 1964 in Alturas, CA. Skip went into power line construction. While the family was following the jobs, their second son, Shane Lincoln was born February 2, 1968 in Redding, CA.

The family returned to Alturas in 1970 and has been here since. That's when Skip began his 27-year career working in construction and maintenance with the US Forest Service until he retired from the Modoc National Forest Supervisors Office in Alturas in 1994. He worked for another 10 years with the County of Modoc as a parks caretaker for the outlying area parks. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

"Skip loved his family and all kids. He was devoted to kids and always was very truthful," describes his wife Pat.

His passion was sports. He coached Little League for approximately 10 years, the "Nor-Cal" team.
"You could always find him walking the sidelines of a football game once his boys started playing. Any sport they were in, you would see Skip. He took in Dean Hansen and treated him like his own son when Dean was a high school junior. He was so proud of Shaun and Shane when they returned 'home' to be teachers and coaches," said Pat, his loving wife of 45 years and four months.

In addition to his wife Pat of Alturas, he is survived by his son Shaun, wife Patty and their children Travis, Joshua and Tyler of Alturas; son Shane and wife Jolie and their children Derek, Shaina, Dustin Wood of Tulelake; foster son Dean Hansen, wife Brandi and their children Duncan and Drew of Fair Oaks, CA; his sister Connie Clark of Grass Valley, CA; three brothers Sam Herceg and wife Joyce of Carson City, NV; Gary "Tick" Herceg and wife Dorothy, Felton, CA; Tom Herceg of Watsonville, CA; cousins Terry Quirk of Alturas, Helen Goulden of Alturas; aunt Lucile Palmer in Salinas, CA and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Herbert Wood; mother Marcell Wheeler-Wood-McGeorge; stepmother Fay Wood and brother Ronald Wood.
A memorial celebration of Skip's life will be held on Saturday, May 17 at 1 p.m. at the Alturas Elks Lodge Hall in Alturas. It will be potluck with a no host bar. Anyone who wishes to attend is more than welcome. Interment will be held at a later date at the family plot in the Cedarville Cemetery. There is the possibility a scholarship fund will be established. Arrangements with Kerr Mortuary.

Harry A. Larimore

Fourth generation Modoc'er Harry Allen Larimore will be remembered as a very nice man with a great sense of humor and one of the "best backhoe operators in Modoc County." Mr. Larimore passed away at his home in Alturas, CA, with family gathered, on January 28, 2008, after a short battle with cancer. He was 86.

Harry's family has been in Modoc County since the 1800's. He has many relatives in the area. His great- grandparents Silkerk and Sara Hildebrand came to Fort Bidwell, CA with the wagon train. Their daughter Cecilia married George Larimore and had two sons, Christie and Mattheu. Cecilia and George divorced, and Cecilia married John O'Leary. They had several more children. Christie married Mildred May Hanks, whose husband Ira Allen had passed away. The Allens had one son, Rollen. Christie and Mildred had two children, Harry and his sister, Elsie.

Harry was born north of Eagleville, California, on July 28, 1921 to Christie Alfred and Mildred May (Hanks) Larimore. At a young age, Harry moved with his family to Likely, California, where his father owned the Likely Garage. A few years later they moved to Fort Bidwell where Harry attended school, played harmonica in the band, and graduated from Fort Bidwell High School in 1939. After graduation he worked for Harry Schadler at Cowhead Ranch for four years. In April 1943, he married Ethel Vermillion, and to this union three daughters were born. Harry entered the Army on November 17, 1943. He performed duties as a rifleman with Company C 104th Infantry in the European Theater. He used an M-1 rifle in combat, firing upon enemy positions, and became familiar with the use and care of all small arms and hand-to-hand fighting techniques while participating in the Northern France and Rhineland Campaigns. He also served as a truck driver, driving 2 _ ton trucks, hauling supplies from the beach-head to the front lines. Harry was awarded medals for Good Conduct, Victory Medal, American Theater Service Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, and Combat Infantryman Badge. From injuries received in France, he was awarded the Purple Heart.

Harry was honorably discharged in April, 1946 and returned to Alturas where he worked for the local lumber mills, the peat moss plant in Jess Valley and drove school buses until he purchased his first backhoe and began contracting backhoe work throughout the county. He was a member of the Operating Engineers Union. In 1974, he sold his backhoe to Heard Plumbing and worked there for the next 25 years. Ethel and Harry were married until 1971.

In April, 1972, he married Beatrice Carnahan in Virginia City, Nevada. They have made Alturas their home since their marriage. Harry was a Life Member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the VFW Auxiliary Post 3327. He enjoyed helping with fund raising events. Harry and Bea enjoyed watching their grandchildren's soccer and baseball games, band concerts, and Jilene's many volleyball and basketball games. They spent every summer at Spalding Resort at Eagle Lake, enjoying family reunions and lots of fishing.

Harry is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Beatrice Larimore of Alturas; his sister Elsie and Junior Kinser of Dunnigan, CA, his daughters Millie and Don Roberts of Rocklin, CA; Mary Fuller and friend Tim Hoshko of Rocklin, CA; Jane and Don Eaton of Alturas; grandchildren Tony and Gigi Roberts of Anaheim Hills, CA; Kevin and Megan Roberts of San Francisco, CA; Melinda and Rick Cole, Fremont, CA; Julie and Maurice Rasgon of Santa Monica; and Jilene Mastagni of Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota; great-grandchildren Jeremy Mastagni II and Jacob Mastagni of Alturas, Emily and Christian Roberts of Anaheim Hills, Addison and Kylie Rasgon of Santa Monica, step-children Glenn Ely of Cle Elum, WA, John and Marion Ely of Red Bluff, and Michelle and Charles Young of Alturas, and 11 step-grandchildren, 16 step-great grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Rollen Allen, first wife Ethel and grandson Jeremy Mastagni.

Services for Harry Larimore will be held Friday, May 23, 1:00 p.m. graveside at Alturas Cemetery. Fellowship will follow at the Veterans' Memorial Hall, South Main Street, Alturas.

Donations in Harry's memory can be directed to Veterans Guest House, 880 Locust Street, Reno, NV 89502-0948

Jackie "Jack" Lynn Meland

Jackie Lynn Meland, 52, of Winnemucca, NV. Passed away in Reno, NV. March 9, 2008, of natural causes. Jack was born in Alturas, CA August 30, 1955 to Weta (Toney) and Elton (Hap) Meland. He attended Willow High School where he was Chapter President of the FFA in 1973/74. He wrestled all four years. Jack was a diehard Raiders football fan, he was passionate about wrestling, loved to fish and hunt with the "guys in the Idaho Mountains." Jack's kids were his lifeblood, he was involved in their lives and extremely proud of them.

Jack is survived by his daughter Sierra Dawn and only granddaughter Corinna Jewell of Sacramento, CA, sons Steve, John and Brad, Daughter Heidi all of Nampa, Idaho. Mother Weta (Toney) Meland of Mountain Home, AR. Siblings Dr. Ole Meland of Arlington, WI, Gary and Bonnie Meland of Baraboo WI, Floyd of OR, Cheri (Meland) and Jerry Adams of Mountain Home, AR. Jack was raised in an extended family of ten children: Weta's five and her sister Reta's five children, Kathy, Linda, Kenneth, Paula and Chris. Proceeding Jack in death was his father Elton (Hap) Meland and Aunt Reta (Toney) Putman-Campbell.

Jack was always caring and giving, one who would be there for you without asking for his help, a man some called brother, who are friends or brother-in-laws. The family would like to extend a very special thanks to the hospital staff in Reno for treating Jack and his family like they were part of their family. The family would also like to extend a very special thanks to Ray Plumb for always being there for Jack and his children.

Memorial services for Jack L. Meland and Aunt Reta (Toney) Putnam-Campbell will be held on Sunday May 25 at 2:00 p.m. at the Church in Lake City, CA followed by the Cemetery, and Fire Hall 2:00 p.m. All are welcome!

No farewell words were spoken. No time to say goodbye you were gone before we knew it, and only God knows why. Our hearts still ache in sadness and secret tears still flow, what is meant to lose you no one will ever know. Perhaps there are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are ok.

Jack, we love you much!

Service for Carlton "Ed" Ivory

A memorial service for third generation Modoc County cowboy, Carlton Edward Ivory will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008, at the Alturas Cemetery. Cowboy Minister Cody Gunderson, originally from Lakeview, OR will conduct the services under arrangement by Kerr Mortuary. Mr. Ivory passed away on July 11, 2007, in Scone, New South Wales, Australia, following a brief illness. "Ed" was born November 29, 1921. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 22 years, Sue E. Ivory of Scone, New South Wales, Australia; his children and their spouses Jim and Cathy Ivory; John and Sandi Ivory; and Sue K. Ivory of Sierra Vista, AZ. Grandchildren and their spouses: Jay and Shannon Burris, Austin, Texas; Shane Sample, Scottsdale, AZ; Christian and Dee Dee Spickler, Las Vegas, NV; Jay and Jeanne Ivory, Scottsdale, AZ; Buster and Heather Ivory, Gillette, WY; James and Adrian Ivory, Blacksburg, VA; Mandy Ivory, Cody, WY as well as eight great- grandchildren. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Nona Ivory; half brother Ralph Leonard; half sister Rita Leonard; brother, Arthur Raymond (Buster) Ivory; and granddaughter Kelly Jo Ivory.

Sports

Modoc splits with SCL champs Etna

Modoc's varsity girl's softball team split a double header Friday with Shasta Cascade League winner Etna, losing the first 5-4 and winning the second 3-1.

The split places the Braves in fourth place in the SCL, with Fall River second, but they still have to play Weed this Friday to complete their schedule. Weed is dwelling in the cellar so Fall River is expected to win both. That would make the league standings as follows: Etna 10-2, Fall River 8-4, Mt. Shasta 7-5, Modoc 7-5, Burney 6-6, Trinity 3-11 and Weed 2-10.

Modoc lost in the first playoff round May 6, to Etna 5-4.

In the opening game against Etna, the Braves fell behind 1-0, but went ahead 3-1 in the fourth. The Lions tied it at 3-3 in the fifth and Modoc added a run in the sixth to lead 4-3. Etna tied it at 4-4 in the seventh to send the game into extra innings. The Lions scored the winning run in the bottom of the 10th.

Emily Conner went the distance for Modoc, getting the loss. She allowed five runs on 15 hits, walked a pair and fanned 10. Nicole Hall led the hitting, going 2-for-3. Sarah Catania, Conner and Sami Schmidt each had a hit.

The Braves went up 2-0 in the third inning of the second game and added a final run in the sixth. Etna scored its only run in the sixth.

Conner got the win, giving up one run on seven hits, walking two and striking out seven.

Schmidt went 3-for-4, Amy Cruse was 2-for-3, while Brynn Juanarena, Sarah Mason, Catania ad Corrie Clark each added a hit.

Etna proves too much for Braves

Etna's Lions proved to be more than the Modoc's Braves baseball team could handle last Friday, trouncing Modoc 16-1 in the first game and 9-2 in the second, ending the Braves season.

Modoc fielded a young team this year and struggled through a tough season, finished at 4-9 in the Shasta Cascade League, with only Weed at 0-13 below them. Trinity won the SCL at 10-2, followed by Etna 9-4, Fall River 9-4, Burney 7-5 and Mt. Shasta 5-7.

In got ugly quick in the first game against Etna, with the Lions scoring nine in the first inning and seven in the second. Modoc scored one run in the third.

Trent Schmidt got the loss, going two innings, allowing 6 runs and 11 hits, walked six and had two strike outs. He also gave up a pair of home runs. He was relieved by John Hughes who allowed no runs on three hits and struck out two. Hughes also had the only hit for the Braves in the game.

Etna started the second game with a 1-0 first inning lead and added two in the third, two in the fourth and four in the fifth for nine. Modoc scored its two runs in the seventh.

Schmidt went 3-for-4 at the late, Justin Estes and Hughes each had a hit. Estes was on the mound and got the loss, going six innings, allowing nine runs on eight hits, walked four and fanned four.

Modoc tracksters head to SCL meet

Modoc's track teams will be at College of the Siskiyous in Weed Friday for the Shasta Cascade League Championships.

Leading the way for the Braves' varsity girls will be junior distance runner Michel Funk and thrower Rachel Field.

The varsity boy's team leaders are hurdler Cam Hall, sprinter David Holloway, distance runner Cain Madrigal, and thrower Newmie Wilson.

There will be some solid performance turned in by a number of sophomore and freshmen athletes in both divisions, including Matt Mayes, Ulysses Gonzales, Gustavo Chavez, Austin How, Scott Stillinger, Jordan Nolan, Maddie Halvorson, Danielle Grier and Rebecca Field.

Last weekend at the Mt. Shasta Invitationals, Funk took a second in the 1600 meters in 5:07.64. Rachel Field was fourth in the discus at 83-1 and sixth in the shot at 26-11.

Cain Madrigal led the boy's varsity with a third in the 800 at 2:13.18 and fourth in the 1600 meters at 4:58.21. Cam Hall was third in the 300 meters at 45.8 and fourth in the 110 hurdles at 18.46.

Gustavo Chavez took a third in the 800 for the junior varsity boys at 2:22.37 and Austin Hoy was third in the triple jump at 33-05.75. Scott Stillinger was fifth in the high jump at 4-8.

For the junior varsity girls, Danielle Grier was 5th in the 100 hurdles at 21.39, Jordan Nolan was sixth in the 400 meters at 1:12.90, Celeste Yamagiwa was sixth in the 300 hurdles in 1:01.64. Jenelle Stillinger was sixth in the 100 hurdles in 21.81 and Rachel Bratton was sixth in the 3200 at 15:30.31

May 15, 2008

News

State Senate committee strips rural cops funds

In a move that would portend dire consequences on rural law enforcement, a State Senate subcommittee last week opted to recommend cuts to millions of dollars of funding.

While the funds are always on the table come state budget crunches, this time around the depth of the recommended cuts was astounding even to ardent observers. Whether the cuts would survive a full Senate hearing remains in question.

The subcommittee cut all funding for the Rural Sheriff's Program, amounting to $500,000 out of Sheriff Mark Gentry's budget. That program also provides a $500,000 grant to California's other 36 least-populated counties. That cut would have a major impact on the Modoc Sheriff's department.
In addition, the subcommittee cut all COPS money out of the budget, which would negatively impact the Alturas Police Department by $100,000. On top of that the state's Booking Fee Solution, would transfer about $26 per booking paid by the state to the responsibility of the local police departments.
But the subcommittee wasn't done there, it also cut out a $119 million package for local prosecutors, jails and cops and eliminated $119 million aimed at juvenile offenders, $201 million for probation camps and $29 million used to stop meth trafficking.

According to the Sacramento Bee, Senator Mike Machado of Linden, said his committee "Had no choice but to take a machete to programs it deemed discretionary" and "If the counties want the programs, they're going to have to find a way in their own budgets to pay for them." Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes said what that means is a cut in the number of officers on patrol and a decrease in the overall level of public protection in rural areas.

"We're already down one officer from historic levels," said Barnes. "Our crime rate is going up (to 318 cases presently, about 50 above normal for this time of year) and now is not the time to cut enforcement funds. Our city, and all of rural California is changing."

Gentry said the funds "have been the backbone of our budget for the past several years" and any cut could mean "employee layoffs or decreased patrols."

Barnes, along with Gentry, will be supporting the law enforcement organizations now trying to educate the state legislators about what impacts the loss of the law enforcement funds could do to actual enforcement.

While the state has threatened to cut these types of funds in the past, they have generally been reinstated. But, Barnes and Gentry stress, without some public and law enforcement input, they could disappear.

"This is a serious public safety issue, and we're not going to be quiet about the impacts," said Barnes.

Feinstein "optimistic" Secure Schools will pass Senate

California Senator Diane Feinstein's office said Tuesday she is optimistic a one-year fix for the Secure Rural School Funding will be included in the U.S. Senate Supplemental budget this year and should be addressed today.

Whether the issue will remain in the supplemental as it goes through the House of Representatives or will be signed by the President is still a big question mark.

According to her office representative, Senator Feinstein is committed to getting the schools funding passed this year and places it as a high priority. She continues to seek a multi-year solution to the funding issue, but this year the reality is a one-year fix is the possibility.

Modoc County Superintendent of School Gary Jones spent time in early May in Washington and met with Senator Feinstein, whom he said was unsure about the possibility of getting the Secure Roads and Schools funding passed and signed by the President this year.

While the Senator's staff said she is committed to getting the funding passed this year in the Senate supplemental, it remains a far cry from being anything certain. The fact remains that the issue will have a tough road ahead in the House and with the President. Feinstein believes the funding measure will be adopted this year.

In total the Secure Roads and School funding amounts to about $1.3 million to Modoc Schools.
The county office and all districts in the county have been advised not to budget the Secure Schools as revenue this next year. The schools in the county are largely able to avoid major layoffs for this year, but a continuing loss of those funds would impact severely in the next budget cycle.

All school districts and county schools offices in the northstate are once again going into a budget year without firm numbers from either the state or federal governments.

If the dismal budget projections and realities continue, jobs will not be secure for long into the future.
Jones is confident that even with the impending budget cuts at the state and federal level, the county office and local school districts "have necessary reserves to withstand the initial affects of such large losses in revenue."

He continues to stress, however, that school systems cannot sustain annual losses of this size without changes to educational programs and services.

Children's Fair opens Saturday with fun

Modoc County's 21st Annual Children's Fair opens in a big way this Saturday on Modoc High School's campus at Main and East Eighth Streets, Alturas from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This year's theme "Where the West is Fun" sets the tone for the activity-packed day for young and old, starting with "A Crazy Western Hat Parade" promptly at 9 a.m. with the Modoc High School Jazz Band leading the way. Winning participants will receive coupons valued at $1 each and redeemable at any booth on the day of the fair.

Forty booths with either food or activities or games will keep everyone busy. Three special games arrive for this year's fair. The Jurassic Park Obstacle Jump House, a jousting game and the Truck Jump House will entertain the most active of kids. Also, the big favorite, the toilet racers, will return for the day of fun. A modest fee is charged for these games.

Local talent gives the Children's Fair a special flair. On the Main Stage, the Wild Plum Jam Band will entertain with its blend of music and Robin Brush's group gets the tempo rocking.

Square dance demonstrations will be given by local dance troupe Alturas Allemanders. Sandy Ellsworth of Alturas will show off her trained, miniature ponies, "The Little Rascals." Shane McGarva of Likely will bring a western style roping demonstration to the gym.

A magician and a balloon artist will demonstrate their fun to watch skills. A fishing booth, a ball toss game, a mock fire suppression activity, a dime toss, bingo, face painting, and costumes to wear are all activities for the youth. Some will charge a small fee for games; others are free.

Bring a hearty appetite as all types of food will be available at very reasonable prices. A sampling includes hamburgers, Philly cheese sandwiches, tamales, soft beef tacos, corn dogs, Polish dogs on sticks, strawberry shortcake, snow cones and chocolate-covered fruit. The ice cream truck will be parked on the fair site.

Free juice and water is offered by Modoc County Sheriff's office and free popcorn and juice or water is provided by Modoc Joint Unified School District. Quiznos will bring cookies and lemonade to the fair.

All kinds of hands-on activities are available for the younger set. Warnerview Nursing home will have a toy and candy booth. Sand and bubbles, a ball toss, a Discovery Center for the wee tots and a chance to decorate cookies are just some of the events.

Demonstrations occur in the school gym and include the chess tournament run by Larry Manzer, kites with Jack Harris, archaeology with Gerry Gates, and fabric painting with Bonnie Wheeler, plus the roping demonstration by Shane McGarva.

Modoc Wildlife Refugee, the Modoc National Forest, and New Pioneer 4-H Club will also show their special skills. Modoc County Public Health again presents Dental Screening services while TEACH's Crisis Center and the Alturas Masonic Lodge will take photos of kid's for ID purposes.
The Children's Fair committee reminds everyone that free roaming or leashed dogs and cats are not allowed on the school campus, nor is it acceptable to give away baby kittens or puppies at the fair. The fair is an alcohol, tobacco, and drug free event.

RAC projects need to be in soon

While the actual source for the Resource Advisory Committee funding (Secure Roads and Schools) has not yet been passed at the federal level, anyone with a grant proposal for those funds should consider getting them in soon.

According to Modoc County Resource Analyst Sean Curtis, the local RAC will be under the gun to get projects approved in a short time frame.

He expects the Secure Schools funding to be approved in the supplemental budget and by adopted by June. With that timeline, projects need to be submitted early and must be approved by the RAC and Board of Supervisors by September.

"It's important that we get well-documented and complete projects in the first round," said Curtis. "We're not going to have the normal amount of time to work with the applicants to fine tune the projects, so if they start early, it will be helpful." Applications for the grant funding, which amounts to about $600,000 annually including Title II and III are available from Dina McElwain at the Modoc National Forest, 233-5811.

RAC projects are supposed to benefit the Modoc National Forest ecologically and environmentally and also benefit the local economy.

Call Curtis at 233-3276 or McElwain for more information.

BLM Resource Advisory Council to meet in Alturas

Land use planning topics are on the agenda for a meeting of the Bureau of Land Management Northeast California Resource Advisory Council set for Thursday and Friday, May 15 and 16, at the BLM Alturas Field Office, 708 West 12th St., Alturas.

On Thursday, RAC members convene at 10 a.m. and depart immediately for a field tour to the Bieber area. The tour will return to Alturas by 4 p.m. Members of the public are welcome. They must provide their own lunch and transportation in a high clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Friday's session begins at 8 a.m. Agenda items include an update on new resource management plans recently approved for the BLM Alturas, Eagle Lake and Surprise field offices and a status report on an environmental impact statement for the multi-agency Sage-Steppe Ecosystem Restoration Strategy.
Members also will hear an update on wind energy development proposals and hear status reports from BLM field managers.

Time for public comment has been set aside for 11 a.m., Friday, May 16.

The 15-member advisory council, one of 24 such councils in the Western states, works closely with the BLM's managers to advise on public land natural resource management. Members represent a wide range of interests including livestock grazing, the timber industry, recreation, history and archaeology, wild horses and burros, environmental groups, local government, the academic sector and the public at large.

More information is available from BLM Public Affairs Officer Jeff Fontana, (530) 252-5332.

APD stresses off road, parking laws

There appears to be more violations of the city parking ordinances and off-road vehicle riding on city streets.

Chief of Police Ken Barnes warns that people who are riding non-street legal vehicle on Alturas Streets will be cited. A big part of the problem, said Barnes, was underage drivers riding dirt bikes (motorcycles) and quads on city streets.

"We have warned those riders to stay off the streets, and they can't ride on the shoulders to be legal," Barnes said. "With the better weather coming, we'd like to get on top of this early." Two issues come in mind in Barnes view. First is that many of the riders are under the legal driving age and not licensed, and secondly, the vehicles are not permitted on streets or highways.

Barnes is also asking those riders to respect private property rights and to not ride across or ride on private property. In addition, he said to be aware of possible noise complaints if those kids are riding within city neighborhoods.

Another problem that has surfaced is people parking their cars on the wrong sides of the street. Alturas ordinances require a vehicle to be "stopped and parked with the right hand wheels parallel and within 18 inches of the right-hand curb. Where no curbs or barriers exist right-hand parking is required unless otherwise indicated."

Basically, parking should be parallel and on the same side of the street as the legal flow of traffic.

Obituaries:

Albert Ben Arena

Albert "Al" Arena of Alturas was always proud of his Basque heritage. His parents, Mary Barnetche of Suchesqun, France and Urbano Pedroarena of Aria, Spain (later named Peter Arena when he arrived in the U.S.), raised him in the family businesses in Alturas, from the time Al was eight. The skills Al learned, shaped his life.

Albert Ben Arena passed away on May 11, 2008, at the age of 82 in Alturas, CA, but left his lasting mark throughout Modoc County as the owner of Arena Blacksmithing, the original building which stands across from Alturas City Hall. There is no sign on the 1909 building made of hand-hewn, soft stone quarried locally, which the Arena family purchased in 1939 and where Al learned the blacksmith and welding trade from his father.

Al was born in Minden, NV on November 22, 1926, where the family had a restaurant and his mother served Basque style meals. The Arenas moved to Susanville in 1927, then hearing about the Pickering Mill that was being built in Alturas, and considered to be the largest milling plant of its kind in the world, the family moved to Alturas in 1928, as the lumber industry was turning Alturas into a boomtown. The family and a partner purchased the property on West Fourth Street to build the Buena Vista Hotel within a few months, to serve as rooms and boarding for mill workers for the Pickering Co. Al's father helped construct the building made with salvaged materials from two old Madeline Hotels and completed it May 24, 1929. In 1932, the lumber company went down with the Depression and the mill never had its machinery installed. The mill was unused for 12 years and then leased by the White Pine Lumber Co. For a few years during the Great Depression, the Buena Vista had to close, so Al's father went back to his trade of Blacksmithing. When the hotel opened again after the Great Depression, Mary catered mostly to the Basque workers.

In 1942, the government housed approximately 30 Air Cadets at the Buena Vista, which it leased from Mary and Pete. The Cadets were there for the duration of the war, using the Alturas Airport as their training location and just out the back door of the hotel.

Al graduated from Modoc High School and entered the Army June 28, 1945 at Camp Beale, CA. He earned the WWII Victory Medal and was honorably discharged Dec. 27, 1946 as a Technician fifth grade. He returned to Alturas and the family businesses.

When WWII ended, Mary began catering to private parties and banquets, serving Basque style food. She became known throughout the West Coast for her meals, and Al learned his cooking skills from his mother and his bartending skills working side by side with his father for the banquets. Al knew everyone. Mary's was the place to be and be seen and attracted a number of celebrities, among them, Governors. The Buena Vista name was later changed to Mary's, after their partnerships were dissolved and after World War II. But, the business was always run as a family business with the Arenas.

In 1948, Al played a major role in rebuilding the rope tow at Cedar Pass Ski Hill. All the work was done in the Arena Blacksmith Shop and Al would run the tow on weekends. He knew the machines inside and out.

Al's mother had a stroke in 1958, which took her life that same year. In 1960, Al qualified for the Olympic National Ski Patrol in the Squaw Valley Winter Games and then was appointed as the Northeast Section Chief of National Ski Patrol. Al turned the local hill over to Glen Jobe, but Al stayed active at Cedar Pass Ski Hill for several more years. After Al married Shirley (Ausman) Rosendahl on September 1, 1963 in Alturas, the couple operated the Bar in the hotel on a part time bases after their normal working day, until the hotel could be sold in 1965. In July 2004, after vandals started a fire, the building was razed for safety concerns.

Al was a lifetime member of the Alturas Elks Lodge 1756 and volunteer for the Alturas Fire Department for years. He loved being outdoors hunting and fishing, and he enjoyed his blacksmithing work and skiing. Al's Basque bread making was always appreciated when he shared loaves with family and friends. His welding and blacksmith work was known for its quality and durability. He continued his trade, never fully retiring. Al was a kind person who always shared a smile. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife Shirley of Alturas; his sister Alvida Hafford of Reno, NV; his children Jan (Rosendahl) and Rodney Barnes and David Rosendahl of Cedarville, CA; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; niece Annette and Carlos Campos, Reno; nephew Arnold Hafford, Sacramento; daughter-in-law Denice and husband Laurence Crabtree of Bieber, CA; daughter-in-law Sandy Eaton of Alturas, CA; and brother-in-law Jim Ausman of Chico, CA.

Services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Friday, May 16 at 1 p.m. with burial to follow at the Alturas Cemetery. A time of fellowship will follow at Sacred Heart Parish Hall, East Fourth St., Alturas. Services arranged by Kerr Mortuary. Donations to any charity of the donor's choice.

George Steele McGarva

George Steele McGarva was born Dec 24, 1929 to Robert & Rhoda McGarva on the McGarva Ranch on Adin Mountain. He was a kind, gentle, humble man who had a wonderful, warm, patient temperament. George was a devoted, loving, loyal, husband, father, grandfather & great-grandfather. He considered his family the very most important aspect of his life and his happiest moments were when he was surrounded by his family. George leaves his loving & loyal wife, Novella, who was his lifelong companion since their wedding on July 24, 1949; his daughter Carolyn Lucero, Santa Maria, CA; his daughter Jeanette Guiducci, Cottonwood, CA; his son John McGarva, Santa Rosa, CA; his daughter Patty Povey, Manton, CA; 16 grandchildren & 28 great-grandchildren. George loved to spend time in the mountains fishing & hiking & exploring, working in his shop making furniture & accessories, or riding horses & working with the cattle. He left our world quietly from home on Friday evening, May 9, 2008 and is now in the presence of the Lord. We will miss his gentle humor, his unconditional love, his unfailing support & his quiet presence in our lives. A memorial service celebrating his life was held Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at 2 p.m. at the McGarva home at 32301 Battleview Drive in Manton, CA.

Bert Harrison Simson

Bert Harrison Simson was born on a small ranch in Eagleville on April 21, 1921 to Barbara and Bert Simson, Sr. He grew up milking cows by hand as part of his chores. He married Marjorie Williams April 22, 1940, eloping to Carson City, NV. Four years and two children (daughter Jan and son Rick) later, the family moved to Glenn County ranching 180 acres in the Bayliss-Ord Bend area. Since there was no electricity in the area until after World War II, Bert milked six dairy cows by hand. Here another son, Ron, was born. In 1950, a Grade A dairy was built at the Simson ranch where he and his sons operated until 2006, when they sold the cows and retired their milking boots. Bert was named Northern California Dairyman of the Year in 1983. He served on various boards in the dairy industry. Besides operating a dairy, he grew rice, wheat, alfalfa and corn. Before the cows, he had a sheep ranch for a while. In the summer months, he and Marge had a horse riding stable in Lake Almanor for many years. Every April, Bert and Marge celebrated his birthday and their wedding anniversary at the Red Bluff Roundup. They also loved attending the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.

Bert enjoyed his family, especially his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren. He was looking forward to turning 87 and celebrating 68 years of marriage to the love of his life, Marjorie. He will be missed. He leaves his eternally loving wife, Marjorie of Chico, daughter Jan and her husband Jim Taylor, son Rick and his wife Jeanette, son Ron and his wife Julia, six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; his brother Earl and sisters Jean and Patsy Rea.

Vivian Bernice Tanner

Vivian Bernice Tanner, age 95, departed this life on May 7, 2008. Vivian had been a resident at Warnerview Hospital for the past 10 years.

Vivian was born on February 20, 1913 in Collin County, Texas. As a young girl she moved with her parents to southern California near San Diego.

There she met and married Lewis Tanner. She and Lewis worked in the movie theaters for several years. Their first child, Loveta, was born in Escondido.

Vivian and Lewis moved to Rigby, Idaho to improve Lewis' health. Vivian and Lewis had a boy, Robert, born in Rigby.

Vivian worked in Rigby for many years. Vivian worked for J.C. Penney Co. and retired from there. After retirement Vivian and Lewis moved to Hemet, CA. After Lewis passed away Vivian moved to Indio, CA to be near her daughter and son-in-law, Fred and Loveta Urbanek.

Vivian was active in the Order of the Eastern Star. She is a Past Worthy Matron of the Coachella Chapter. She also worked with the Senior Center in Indio and with Meals on Wheels.

After a crippling illness, Vivian was placed in convalescent care. Her children moved her to Alturas to be near them.

Vivian is survived by daughter and son-in-law Loveta and Fred Urbanek; son Robert (Bob) Tanner, all of Alturas; granddaughters Debbie Roddy, Alpine, TX; Nancy Silver, Tucson, AZ; Grandsons Bill Tanner, Plano, TX and Rick Tanner, Dalton, GA. She leaves five great-grandchildren and two great-great-grand daughters.

As per Vivian's' wishes, there will be no services. She desired to be cremated. Anyone wishing to could donate to your favorite charity.

Service for Alton ‘Skip' Wood

A memorial to celebrate the life of Alton Francis "Skip" Wood will be held on Saturday, May 17 at 1 p.m. at the Alturas Elks Lodge Hall in Alturas. It will be potluck with a no host bar. "Anyone who wishes to attend is more than welcome," says the family.

Mr. Wood is survived by his wife Pat of Alturas; son Shaun, wife Patty and their children Travis, Joshua and Tyler of Alturas; son Shane and wife Jolie and their children Derek, Shaina, Dustin Wood of Tulelake; foster son Dean Hansen, wife Brandi and their children Duncan and Drew of Fair Oaks, CA; his sister Connie Clark of Grass Valley, CA; three brothers Sam Herceg and wife Joyce of Carson City, NV; Gary "Tick" Herceg and wife Dorothy, Felton, CA; Tom Herceg of Watsonville, CA; cousins Terry Quirk of Alturas, Helen Goulden of Alturas; aunt Lucile Palmer in Salinas, CA and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Wood passed away April 28, 2008, at his home in Alturas, CA. He was 68.
Interment will be held at a later date at the family plot in the Cedarville Cemetery. There is the possibility a scholarship fund will be established. Arrangements with Kerr Mortuary.

Harry Larimore

Services for Harry Larimore will be held Friday, May 23, 1:00 p.m. graveside at Alturas Cemetery. Fellowship will follow at the Veterans' Memorial Hall, South Main Street, Alturas. Mr. Larimore passed away at his home in Alturas, CA, with family gathered, on January 28, 2008, after a short battle with cancer. He was 86.

Harry is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Beatrice Larimore of Alturas; his sister Elsie and Junior Kinser of Dunnigan, CA, his daughters Millie and Don Roberts of Rocklin, CA; Mary Fuller and friend Tim Hoshko of Rocklin, CA; Jane and Don Eaton of Alturas; grandchildren Tony and Gigi Roberts of Anaheim Hills, CA; Kevin and Megan Roberts of San Francisco, CA; Melinda and Rick Cole, Fremont, CA; Julie and Maurice Rasgon of Santa Monica; and Jilene Mastagni of Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota; great-grandchildren Jeremy Mastagni II and Jacob Mastagni of Alturas, Emily and Christian Roberts of Anaheim Hills, Addison and Kylie Rasgon of Santa Monica, step-children Glenn Ely of Cle Elum, WA, John and Marion Ely of Red Bluff, and Michelle and Charles Young of Alturas, and 11 step-grandchildren, 16 step-great grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Rollen Allen, first wife Ethel and grandson Jeremy Mastagni.

Donations in Harry's memory can be directed to Veterans Guest House, 880 Locust Street, Reno, NV 89502-0948

Jack Meland

Memorial services for Alturas born Jack L. Meland, 52, of Winnemucca, NV and Reta Toney Putnam-Campbell will be held on Sunday May 25 at 2:00 p.m. at the Church in Lake City, CA followed by the Cemetery, and Fire Hall. All are welcome.

Jack is survived by his daughter Sierra Dawn and granddaughter Corinna Jewell of Sacramento, CA, sons Steve, John and Brad, Daughter Heidi all of Nampa, Idaho. Mother Weta (Toney) Meland of Mountain Home, AR. Siblings Dr. Ole Meland of Arlington, WI, Gary and Bonnie Meland of Baraboo WI, Floyd of OR, Cheri (Meland) and Jerry Adams of Mountain Home, AR. Jack was raised in an extended family of ten children: Weta's five and her sister Reta's five children, Kathy, Linda, Kenneth, Paula and Chris. Proceeding Jack in death was his father Elton (Hap) Meland and Aunt Reta (Toney) Putman-Campbell.

Carlton "Ed" Ivory

A memorial service for third generation Modoc County cowboy, Carlton Edward Ivory will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008, at the Alturas Cemetery. Cowboy Minister Cody Gunderson, originally from Lakeview, OR will conduct the services under arrangement by Kerr Mortuary. Mr. Ivory passed away on July 11, 2007, in Scone, New South Wales, Australia, following a brief illness. "Ed" was born November 29, 1921.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 22 years, Sue E. Ivory of Scone, New South Wales, Australia; his children and their spouses Jim and Cathy Ivory; John and Sandi Ivory; and Sue K. Ivory of Sierra Vista, AZ. Grandchildren and their spouses: Jay and Shannon Burris, Austin, Texas; Shane Sample, Scottsdale, AZ; Christian and Dee Dee Spickler, Las Vegas, NV; Jay and Jeanne Ivory, Scottsdale, AZ; Buster and Heather Ivory, Gillette, WY; James and Adrian Ivory, Blacksburg, VA; Mandy Ivory, Cody, WY as well as eight great- grandchildren. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Nona Ivory; half brother Ralph Leonard; half sister Rita Leonard; brother, Arthur Raymond (Buster) Ivory; and granddaughter Kelly Jo Ivory.

Sports

Modoc wins first section golf championship

Modoc High School's golf team may have been unseated as Shasta Cascade League Champion for the first time in eight years this season, but they rebounded May 6 to win their first ever North Section Division II Championship.

Modoc shot a season low 404 at Arrowhead to take the title, besting league champion Weed who shot 411. Jeff Solomon led the Braves with a fine 72, Daniel Morgan came in with a 79, Drew Morgan shot 81, Josue Madrigal had an 85, Jeff Barclay shot 87 and Justin Lee had a 94.

Pierce's Ben Geyer had the top individual score with a 70, Jake West of Weed and Solomon tied for second at 72, Scott Lassen of Weed was fourth at 73. Chato Esparza, Willows, Garrett Mood, Las Plumas, and Blake Eddy, East Nicolaus tied for fifth at 74. Zach Kuykendall, Sutter and Blaine Stewart, Rio Vista tied for eight at 75 and Dayton Pierce, Sutter, was 10th at 76.

The top two teams, top four individuals and anyone who shoots 79 or lower advanced to the overall Section Championship May 1 at Graeagle Meadows.

"This is our first division golf championship in school history," said coach Harold Montague. "These guys really played well this season, but never had an incredibly low round all year. The kids could have been really intimidated by Weed who 12 days ago shot a 385 here in our final league match. Jeff Solomon had the best round of the year, Daniel Morgan played even par over the last eight holes to shoot a 79.
"Josue Madrigal had a tough front nine (46), but rebounded nicely to shoot a 39 on the back nine. Drew Morgan played as we thought he would and was only two shots off his season low. Jeff Barclay played very well and his score was the one that really solidified the victory. Not to be outdone, Justin Lee has his season low round as well."

The remaining scores in the tourney were a follows: Sutter 415; East Nicolaus 432 and Willows 463.

"Both coach Jeff Solomon, Sr. and I are extremely proud of this team championship and the accomplishment of these young guys," said Montague. "Although our string of seven consecutive league championships came to an end this year, we gladly settle for this more coveted and elusive of the two championships."

Modoc loses three seniors off this team to graduation this year: Solomon Daniel Morgan and Madrigal.

On Tuesday, the Braves placed fifth out of seven teams in the overall North Section Championships in Graeagle, shooting a 439. Chico won the event with a 392, followed by Pleasant Valley with a 407, Red Bluff's 411, Weed's 429, Modoc 439, Chester 446 and Redding Christian 505.

Daniel Morgan led the Braves with a 78, Solomon had an 84, Madrigal an 88, Barclay a 95, Drew Morgan a 95 and Lee a 101.

Softball team knocked out of playoffs

The Modoc Braves varsity softball team was seeded eighth out of 16 teams for the North Section Division V playoffs and was eliminated when it lost its first game to number nine Burney 7-4 in East Nicolaus Tuesday.

No stats were available for the game.

Burney lost its next game to number one seed East Nicolaus 7-6 and was also eliminated.

Modoc track third in SCL title

Modoc's Track teams all placed third in the Shasta Cascade League Championships May 8 at Weed. The CIF North Section Division III meet will be May 16 at Weed.
Rachel Field won the varsity discus with a toss of 96 feet for the girls and Cam Hall won the varsity boys 300 hurdles with a personal best of 44.6. Kevin Jones won the pole vault with a vault of 10-6.

Michel Funk ran a personal best 5:52.33 in the 1600 meters to place second. She has been hampered by a foot injury this season and placed sixth in the 800 meters at 2:58.8. Coach Wendi Lowrey said she asked Funk to slow down in the 800 because of the injury.

Susanna Jones placed second in the girl's pole vault at 6-0. Cain Madrigal was third in the 800 meters with a personal best of 2:14.63 and was fourth in the 1600 meters in 4:53.32. Newmie Wilson was third in the shot at 38-11.

"The track team did great, we had kids breaking personal records and exceeding their goals," said Lowrey.

She also said she has strong junior varsity boys and girls teams and expects track to get much stronger as the years pass.

"Ulysses Gonzales ran a great time in the 400 meters. Gustavo Chavez, Austin Hoy and Tyler Wood all performed well," Lowrey, said of the JVs. "The JV girls proved to be a strong force with Celeste Yamagiwa, Monique Lloyd and Jessie Kresge placing second, third and fourth in the 300 hurdles. Maddie Halverson and Jordan Nolan showed great speed in the sprints."

May 22, 2008

News

Modoc Voters have several issues June 3

While the June 3 Primary Election may seem a bit odd, since California had a Presidential Primary in February, there are several races to consider.

Topping local interest will be the race for three Modoc County Supervisor seats.
District II's Mike Dunn is in a race with Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock. District III incumbent Patricia Cantrall is being challenged by Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley. District IV's Shorty Crabtree has two opponents, Ron McCullough and Jim Wills.

Polls will be open June 3 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check the back of the sample ballot to find out where to vote.

Many of the precincts in Modoc County are mail-in ballots only. June 3 is the day absentee and mailed ballots must be in to the elections office or to a polling place.

Mail-in ballots for Modoc include Lake City, Fort Bidwell, Eagleville, Likely, Davis Creek, New Pine Creek-Willow Ranch, Canby, Parker Creek, Adin-Lookout, and Day.

Voters will go to the polls in Alturas A, B, C, and D, Hot Spring, California Pines and Cedarville.
In addition to the local elections, voters will choose both the Republican and
Democratic challengers to fill the seat of 4th District U.S. Congressman John Doolittle, who is choosing to retire after this term.

Neither of the top two GOP hopefuls lives in the 4th District. Doug Ose is from Sacramento and Tom McClintock, is a State Senator from Thousand Oaks. Other Republicans on the ballot are Suzanne Jones, Citrus Heights, and Theodore Terbolizard, Grass Valley, who do reside in the district.
The probable Democratic challenger is retried U.S. Air Force Lt. Colonel Charlie Brown, of Roseville, who narrowly lost to Doolittle in 2006, 46 percent to 43 percent. Brown also lives in the district. The other Democrat on the ballot is John Wolfgram of Foresthill.

In addition there will be an election to replace outgoing State Assemblyman Doug LaMalfa. Republican Jim Nielsen, Woodland, who does not reside in the district, is running. Etna's John Martinez is also running hard for the position. Republicans Charles Schaupp and Pete Stiglich are in that race. Democrat Paul Singh is also in the race.

Democrat Anselmo Chavez, Sacramento, is challenging incumbent District 1 State Senator Dave Cox, a Republican.

There will be two propositions on the ballot, Prop. 98 and Prop. 99, both dealing with eminent domain.

Proposition 98 would amend the state constitution to ban government from using its power of eminent domain to take property to transfer it to a private party. It would also ban using eminent domain for a purpose similar to what the private owner was using the property, to consume the property's natural resources or for a purpose at odds with the government's original intent.
The argument in favor state it would protect homes, farms and small businesses from government seizure, would shift cost of rental control from landlords to local governments

The arguments against Prop. 98 state that it would subject tenants and mobile home residents to unpredictable rate hikes, and make it impossible for governments to pass laws to protect the environment or regulate lands use.

Proposition 99, would limit the government's ability to use eminent domain to take an owner-occupied single family house to transfer to a private party, except when protecting public health and safety, responding to an emergency, getting property for use in a public work or improvement, acquiring property from a homeowner who's been there for less than a year.

Those in favor say the initiative offers good solution for the governments' taking of homes to make way for private development. Those against argue it that it does nothing to protect private property and has loopholes that would allow government taking of private homes.

Secure Rural Schools gets past first hurdle

The Secure Rural Schools Program got past a first hurdle May 15 when it was approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee as a $400 million, one-year extension plan in the Emergency Supplemental Bill.

The issue must now clear the House of Representatives, where it may face a challenge from Speaker Nancy Pelosi. She prefers that the funding not be attached to the Supplemental Appropriations Bill and instead be adopted as a stand-alone multi-year project. In addition House Republicans and the President are expected to oppose the funding.

California Senator Diane Feinstein's office spearheaded the one-year fix for the Secure Rural School Funding at the committee level.

"Rural counties in California and across the country are facing drastic cuts, school closures and teacher layoffs because the funding for the Secure Rural Schools program is running out," she said. "This emergency funding will give these rural communities some breathing room and help them make it through the next school year."

While the initial passage out of the Senate is good news, none of the local school administrators are yet placing that money in the bank.

Senator Feinstein said she is committed to a multi-year solution to the funding issue, but this year the reality is a one-year fix.

Modoc County Superintendent of School Gary Jones remains optimistically cautious about the funding this year.

In total the Secure Roads and School funding amounts to about $1.3 million to Modoc Schools.
The county office and all districts in the county have been advised not to budget the Secure Schools as revenue this next year. The schools in the county remain largely able to avoid major layoffs for this year, but a continuing loss of those funds would impact severely in the next budget cycle.

All school districts and county schools offices in the northstate are once again going into a budget year without firm numbers from either the state or federal governments. The state and federal lag time creates major problems for local school budget administrators when it comes to programs, teacher levels and possible cuts.

If the dismal budget projections and realities continue, jobs will not be secure for long into the future.
Jones is confident that even with the impending budget cuts at the state and federal level, the county office and local school districts "have necessary reserves" to cover the short term.
He continues to stress, however, that school systems cannot sustain annual losses of this size without cuts to educational programs and services.

Forest wants public in put on roads

The Modoc National Forest is in the middle of a 30-day scoping period for their Travel Management Planning. The Forest is considering 1,800 segments (nearly 600 miles) of unauthorized non-system roads for inclusion in the National Forest road system.

Most of these segments are less than one-quarter mile in length and have existed for years. Public input is a vital part of this planning effort. Comments should be received by Forest by June 11.
Two public meetings were held this week, one in Cedarville, and one in Alturas. While the meetings were sparsely attended, the Forest received good specific information and pointed and important questions to improve the planning effort. "The comments we've received thus far have been generally supportive with excellent suggestions on the proposed action," said Information Officer Laura Williams.

The next two meetings are scheduled for May 28 at the Adin Community Hall and May 29 at Honkers in Tulelake. Each open house will be from 6 to 8 p.m.

In addition to the four public open houses, forest personnel have discussed this planning effort with the County Land Use Committee and Economic Vitality Group. They are scheduled to brief the Board of Supervisors, Modoc County Transportation Commission, and the Fish, Game and Recreation Commission. They will speak to groups about this plan upon request.

Last fall, public input was received at a number of meetings, including four open houses in November. A proposed action was developed based on public input and resource specialist evaluation. A notice of intent was published in the Federal Register on May 12. This was the official start of public information gathering, which will end on Jun. 11.

"We listened to the comments and concerns of people during these workshops," said Forest Supervisor Stan Sylva. "We've carefully considered what people told us and we've looked at and discussed each segment of the inventoried non-system routes proposed to be added to our permanent road system. Now I'm asking Forest users to look at our best effort and share with us your thoughts about the proposed action maps."

Hard copy maps are available for review at all Modoc National Forest offices. You can receive your own copy of a CD containing each of the proposed action maps free of charge at the same locations.
For additional information or to schedule a Forest Service person to talk to your group, call Williams at (530) 233-8713. Learn more about the travel management planning process at www.fs.fed.us/r5/modoc.

Obituaries:

Thomas Harry Morris

Memorial services for Adin resident Thomas Harry Morris will be held Friday May 23, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the Big Valley Missionary Baptist Church, in Bieber. Pot luck following at the church hall. Mr. Morris passed away May 18, 2008 at Mercy Hospital, Redding, CA. He was 78.

Thomas Harry Morris was born September 2, 1929 in Eskridge, Kansas. He was the fifth of seven children to John Earl and Geneva (Bailey) Morris. They moved to Colorado when Harry was about three years old, and then to Idaho when Harry was 12. Harry loved to ride his Harley Davidson and belonged to a motorcycle club.

In January 1951, Harry married Marie Smith in Bureau, Idaho. Together they have enjoyed 57 years of marriage. They moved to Fossil, Oregon in 1957, where Harry started attending Missionary Baptist Church. In 1960, they moved to New Pine Creek, Oregon where Harry surrendered to preach. The family moved to Big Valley in 1965 where Harry was pastor at the Big Valley Missionary Baptist Church in Bieber and also fell timber for 45 years.

Harry is survived by his wife Marie of Adin, son Jeffery and wife Rosemary Morris of Salinas, Ca., daughter Lynette and husband Daren Myers of Adin, CA., daughter Kim and Husband Tony White of Oregon. He is also survived by his grandsons Jeremy Morris and Mandi currently in Iraq; Zachariah Morris and Kristina of Bieber, CA; Luke Morris and Tina of Adin; Wynn Myers of Adin; Matthew Tretten and Christy of Longmont, CO. and Zane Myers of Adin; granddaughters Sonia Kallner and Sean of Missouri; Desire Myers of Adin and Tessa Glaze and Justin of Dairy, OR; 10 great-grandchildren; brother Charles and sister Virginia of Nampa, ID.

He was preceded in death by brothers George, Jack and John Earl, his sister Jane and parents John Earl and Geneva.

Douglas Boyd Graham

Douglas Boyd Graham died peacefully in Alturas, CA on May 11, 2008 at the age of 83. Born in New York City on December 25, 1924 to Ralph W. Graham and Florence L. Graham. Doug attended schools in the Bronx and worked for a New York insurance firm before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 1942. He served as a radioman at the Naval Air Station in Norfolk, Virginia, and aboard the USS Albemarle in the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters during World War II. In Norfolk he met and on May 1, 1945, married June Hafer of Alturas, who also served in the Navy for three years.

After both were discharged from the Navy in 1945, Doug and June returned to Alturas in the spring of 1946 to make their home. A businessman in Alturas, Doug was elected to the city council in 1962 and served as mayor of Alturas from 1962 to 1964. He was active in the Elks and Lions clubs and in the fledgling parish of St. Michael's Episcopal Church during the 1950s. Relocating to Ukiah, California in 1966, Doug continued in business in that community until 1980 when he and June returned to live in Alturas. Doug retired in 1990 as the member services manager of the Surprise Valley Electric Corporation.

One of the county library's most faithful patrons, he read widely, particularly on the history of the U.S. and the Second World War. He loved a good bridge game and a lively political discussion. Doug had great affection for his community and the larger surroundings of Modoc County. During retirement, he enjoyed family gatherings at Lake Tahoe, social events and reunions with friends, and opportunities for travel throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Doug is survived by June, his wife of 63 years; daughters Phyllis Graham and Catherine Mohr (Selby); grandchildren Lydia, Alex, and Hannah, all California residents. He was predeceased, exactly a year ago to the day, by his only sister, Vivian Meyer of Toledo, Ohio. His brother-in-law, Eugene Meyer, niece Genie Meyer and Nephew William G. Meyer reside in Toledo. A friend to many and a joy to his family, Douglas Graham will be dearly missed and his good life remembered with love.
Services will be held at the Alturas Elks Lodge at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2008. Private burial will be at the Alturas Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Elks Memorial Fund, c/o the secretary, 619 North Main Street, Alturas, CA 96101, or to any charity of choice.

Viola I. Hammon

Former Surprise Valley resident, Viola Isabelle Hammon, 91, went home to be with her Lord, Monday, May 12, 2008 at Sky Lakes Medical Center in Klamath Falls, Oregon, following a brief illness. She is remembered fondly by her family for her quick wit and wonderful sense of humor. Viola loved to make people laugh.

Viola was born to Verne and Zoa Grace (McDearmid) Lamb in Bremerton, Kitsap County, Washington on February 15, 1915. She was married on April 14, 1933 to James William Sawyer, born in Kansas. The couple made their home in Oregon for a time and then moved on to Fruto, Glenn County, California. In October 1942, they moved to Modoc County, making their home in Eagleville.
After the death of her husband, Viola married Modoc County resident Dave Catlin. After that marriage dissolved, she married once more to John H. Hammon, Jr. and continued to make her home in Surprise Valley.

Viola worked for a time in Alturas as an in-home caregiver and later she worked for the Surprise Valley Hospital, Cedarville, as a housekeeper. From there, she moved to Portland and then to Lakeview, Oregon. Her last years were spent in Klamath Falls, Oregon.

Viola was preceded in death by her husband, James William Sawyer; her son, James Robert Sawyer, her granddaughters, Julie Ann Steward, and Cynthia Pointere, great-grandchildren George Yamagata and Wendy Steward. She is survived by her children, Myrtle May (Dale) Steward of Lake City, CA, Judith Marie Kennedy of Redding, Patricia June Pointere of Lakeview, OR, Jenny Lynn (Yamagata, Fransen) Kleine of Blue Earth, Minnesota, Katherine Elizabeth (Jerry) Goodwin of Farson, Wyoming, Donald Bruce Sawyer of Washington, and William David (Nancy) Sawyer of Fox Island, Washington, and 19 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and 13 great-great-grandchildren.
A private interment service for family only will be on June 21, 2008 at the Eagleville Cemetery, where she will lie with her husband James William and son James Robert Sawyer. An open service for her friends and family will follow the graveside at the Lake City Church at 1:00 p.m. The family wishes that memorial donations be made to Surprise Valley Community Hospital District, P. O. Box 246, Cedarville, California, 96104.

Carlton "Ed" Ivory

A memorial service for third generation Modoc County cowboy, Carlton Edward Ivory will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 24, 2008, at the Alturas Cemetery. Cowboy Minister Cody Gunderson, originally from Lakeview, OR will conduct the services under arrangement by Kerr Mortuary. Mr. Ivory passed away on July 11, 2007, in Scone, New South Wales, Australia, following a brief illness. "Ed" was born November 29, 1921.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 22 years, Sue E. Ivory of Scone, New South Wales, Australia; his children and their spouses Jim and Cathy Ivory; John and Sandi Ivory; and Sue K. Ivory of Sierra Vista, AZ. Grandchildren and their spouses: Jay and Shannon Burris, Austin, Texas; Shane Sample, Scottsdale, AZ; Christian and Dee Dee Spickler, Las Vegas, NV; Jay and Jeanne Ivory, Scottsdale, AZ; Buster and Heather Ivory, Gillette, WY; James and Adrian Ivory, Blacksburg, VA; Mandy Ivory, Cody, WY as well as eight great- grandchildren. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Nona Ivory; half brother Ralph Leonard; half sister Rita Leonard; brother, Arthur Raymond (Buster) Ivory; and granddaughter Kelly Jo Ivory.

Harry Larimore

Services for Harry Larimore will be held Friday, May 23, 1:00 p.m. graveside at Alturas Cemetery. Fellowship will follow at the Veterans' Memorial Hall, South Main Street, Alturas. Mr. Larimore passed away at his home in Alturas, CA, with family gathered, on January 28, 2008, after a short battle with cancer. He was 86.

Harry is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Beatrice Larimore of Alturas; his sister Elsie and Junior Kinser of Dunnigan, CA, his daughters Millie and Don Roberts of Rocklin, CA; Mary Fuller and friend Tim Hoshko of Rocklin, CA; Jane and Don Eaton of Alturas; grandchildren Tony and Gigi Roberts of Anaheim Hills, CA; Kevin and Megan Roberts of San Francisco, CA; Melinda and Rick Cole, Fremont, CA; Julie and Maurice Rasgon of Santa Monica; and Jilene Mastagni of Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota; great-grandchildren Jeremy Mastagni II and Jacob Mastagni of Alturas, Emily and Christian Roberts of Anaheim Hills, Addison and Kylie Rasgon of Santa Monica, step-children Glenn Ely of Cle Elum, WA, John and Marion Ely of Red Bluff, and Michelle and Charles Young of Alturas, and 11 step-grandchildren, 16 step-great grandchildren, 10 great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Rollen Allen, first wife Ethel and grandson Jeremy Mastagni.

Donations in Harry's memory can be directed to Veterans Guest House, 880 Locust Street, Reno, NV 89502-0948.

Meland, Toney Campbell

Memorial services for Alturas born Jack L. Meland, 52, of Winnemucca, NV and Reta Toney Putnam-Campbell will be held on Sunday May 25 at 2:00 p.m. at the Church in Lake City, CA followed by the Cemetery, and Fire Hall. All are welcome.

Jack is survived by his daughter Sierra Dawn and granddaughter Corinna Jewell of Sacramento, CA, sons Steve, John and Brad, Daughter Heidi all of Nampa, Idaho. Mother Weta (Toney) Meland of Mountain Home, AR. Siblings Dr. Ole Meland of Arlington, WI, Gary and Bonnie Meland of Baraboo WI, Floyd of OR, Cheri (Meland) and Jerry Adams of Mountain Home, AR. Jack was raised in an extended family of ten children: Weta's five and her sister Reta's five children, Kathy, Linda, Kenneth, Paula and Chris. Proceeding Jack in death was his father Elton (Hap) Meland and Aunt Reta (Toney) Putman-Campbell.

Sports

Tracksters do well in Division III finals

While no Modoc track athlete won an event at the CIF North Section Division III finals at College of the Siskiyous in Weed May 16, several had solid second places finishes.

Senior Cam Hall ran a 45.23 time in the 300 intermediate hurdles to place second. Kevin Jones, also a senior took a second place in the pole vault at 11-0.
Cain Madrigal took a third place in the 1600 meters, running a 5:00.55. David Holloway ran a 57.44 time in the 400 meter to place fifth. Hall clocked 17.9 in the 110 high hurdles for fifth. Newmie Wilson was sixth in the shot at 36-07.5 and Madrigal was seventh in the 800 meters.

Rachel Field led the varsity girls with a 91-03 discus toss for second and Susanna Jones vaulted 7-0 for third. Field was fourth in the shot at 28-06.5. Jones was fifth in the 3200 meters at 14:58.38.

In the junior varsity boys divisions, Austin Hoy placed fourth in the high jump at 5-0 and in the triple jump at 32-09.5. Chris McMasters was fifth in the shot at 37-0 and Willie Hamann sixth in the high jump at 4-8.

Monique Lloyd paced he junior varsity girls with a second place in the 300 hurdle sat 59.65, followed by Celeste Yamagiwa at 59.85. Danielle Grier was third in the 100 hurdles at 20.91. Samantha Clay took fourth in the discus at 60-0,

Braves lose to Burney

Last week the Modoc Braves softball team lost to the Burney Raiders 7-4, knocking them out of the North Section Division Five playoffs in the first round.

Emily Conner got the loss for Modoc, allowing seven runs, two walks and fanned a pair.

Sami Schmidt went 2-for-2 at the plate, Conner was 2-for-4, Sarah Catania and Lereen Summer each had a hit.

May 29, 2008

News

June 3 Primary voters to decide county leadership

Voters will decide the future leadership of the Modoc County Board of Supervisors June 3 as a majority of seats is up for election this year.

District II's incumbent Mike Dunn is in a race with Bullock's Donut Shop owner Jeff Bullock. District III incumbent Patricia Cantrall is being challenged by artist/rancher/businessman Walt Nicholson, of Jess Valley. District IV's Shorty Crabtree has two opponents, senior center driver and businessman Ron McCullough and retired CHP Lieutenant Jim Wills.

Polls will be open next Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Check the back of the sample ballot to find out where to vote.

Many of the precincts in Modoc County are mail-in ballots only. June 3 is the day absentee and mailed ballots must be in to the elections office or to a polling place.

Mail-in ballots for Modoc include Lake City, Fort Bidwell, Eagleville, Likely, Davis Creek, New Pine Creek-Willow Ranch, Canby, Parker Creek, Adin-Lookout, and Day.

There are 5,259 registered voters in Modoc for this Primary, with a party breakdown as follows: Republican 2,641: Democrat 1,548; Decline to State 834; American Independent 181; Libertarian 30; Green 19; Peace and Freedom 6. In the February Primary, there were 5,214 registered voters and 61.2 percent went to the polls. Local officials expect that same type of turnout this election.

Voters will go to the polls in Alturas A, B, C, and D, Hot Spring, California Pines and Cedarville.
In addition to the local elections, voters will choose both the Republican and
Democratic challengers to fill the seat of 4th District U.S. Congressman John Doolittle, who is choosing to retire after this term.

The top two GOP hopefuls are Doug Ose from Sacramento and Tom McClintock, a State Senator from Thousand Oaks. Other Republicans on the ballot are Suzanne Jones, Citrus Heights, and Theodore Terbolizard, Grass Valley, who do reside in the district.

The leading Democratic challenger is retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Colonel Charlie Brown, of Roseville, who narrowly lost to Doolittle in 2006, 46 percent to 43 percent. Brown also lives in the district. The other Democrat on the ballot is John Wolfgram of Foresthill.

In addition, there will be an election to replace outgoing State Assemblyman Doug LaMalfa. Republican Jim Nielsen, Woodland, who does not reside in the district, is running. Etna's John Martinez is running for the position. Republicans Charles Schaupp and Pete Stiglich are in that race. Democrat Paul Singh is also in the race.

Democrat Anselmo Chavez, Sacramento, is challenging incumbent District 1 State Senator Dave Cox, a Republican.

There will be two propositions on the ballot, Prop. 98 and Prop. 99, both dealing with eminent domain.

Proposition 98 would amend the state constitution to ban government from using its power of eminent domain to take property to transfer it to a private party. It would also ban using eminent domain for a purpose similar to what the private owner was using the property, to consume the property's natural resources or for a purpose at odds with the government's original intent.
The argument in favor state it would protect homes, farms and small businesses from government seizure, would shift cost of rental control from landlords to local governments

The arguments against Prop. 98 state that it would subject tenants and mobile home residents to unpredictable rate hikes (losing rent controls), and make it impossible for governments to pass laws to protect the environment or regulate lands use.

Proposition 99, would limit the government's ability to use eminent domain to take an owner-occupied single family house to transfer to a private party, except when protecting public health and safety, responding to an emergency, getting property for use in a public work or improvement, acquiring property from a homeowner who's been there for less than a year.

Those in favor say the initiative offers good solution for the governments' taking of homes to make way for private development. Those against argue that it does nothing to protect private property and has loopholes that would allow government taking of private homes.

Modoc now cooler, wetter than normal

Well, last week was hotter than normal for the area, setting a record high of 90 degrees. This week has seen an opposite pattern, with high temperatures well below normal and over a normal month's precipitation measured in seven days.

The seven-day rain total of 2.22 inches, and still counting, put the month of May to date at 2.47 inches, high above the month's normal of 1.28 inches. The heaviest rain fell on May 28 at .83 inches, May 27 with .60 inches, May 26 at .32 inches.

On Tuesday, the recorded high temperature was 48 degrees as of 2 p.m., well below the normal high of 72 degrees. That continued a pattern since May 22 when the high was 58 (normal 70); May 23 high of 55 (normal 70); May 24 high of 55 (normal 71); May 25 high of 59 (normal 71); May 26 high of 61 (normal 71); May 27 high of 56 (normal 72).

The forecast calls for cloudiness and a possibility of thunderstorms, but it should warm up by the end of the week.

Last week was a different picture: the thermometer hit 90 degrees May 16 and 92 on May 17, setting records for those days in Alturas, breaking an 89 degree and 90 degree mark, respectively, set in 2006 and 1954.

But the remainder of the hot weekend here did not match the summer of 1954 where it was 93 degrees on the 18th and 90 on the 19th. The record hot day for May was in 1986 when on May 31, the mercury rose to 95 degrees.

Fire season officially opens June 2

Dry conditions have prompted officials at the Susanville Interagency Fire Center to declare the northeast California wildfire season officially open Monday, June 2. The "official" fire season announcement informs people that fire risks are increasing as the weather warms.

The SIFC agencies (Lassen National Forest, Bureau of Land Management, Lassen Volcanic National Park and the Lassen-Modoc Unit of CAL FIRE) and the Modoc and Plumas national forests jointly announced the fire season start.

"We had a record dry spring, and vegetation is drying," said Craig Kincaid, a co-manager at SIFC. "Dry grass carries fire quickly, so there is potential for a very active fire season. We urge everyone to think about fire safety anytime they are outdoors."

CAL FIRE has required permits for outdoor burning since May 1, and campfire permits are required for BLM and Forest Service-managed lands outside of developed campgrounds and recreation sites. An outdoor burning ban and other seasonal fire restrictions are likely later this summer.

Property owners must always adhere to the hours and conditions on burning permits, using fire only on calm days. Adults must supervise all fires, and tools including a water hose and shovel must be on hand. Use of mowers and other brush and grass clearing equipment should be avoided during hot and windy periods because sparks caused by blades hitting rocks can cause fires.

Campers must pay attention to seasonal fire restrictions, keep campfires small, and be sure fires are cold to the touch before leaving camp.

Officials stress that possession and use of fireworks are prohibited in national forests, on BLM-managed public lands and in many unincorporated areas in northeast California. People should check with local fire departments for specific fireworks regulations.

This year, the fire center will be ready to respond to emergencies with a total of 34 fire engines, 18 ground crews, up to five bulldozers, an "air attack" plane and three helicopters from CAL FIRE, the Lassen National Forest, Bureau of Land Management and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Also available are fire engines, bulldozers and water tenders from cooperating local fire departments.
SIFC crews provide fire protection and suppression in parts of Lassen, Modoc, Butte and Tehama counties, and parts of far northwest Nevada.

Giddy Up Radio on the air in SV

By Jean Bilodeaux

Special to the RecordBroadcasting from the freezer room of the old meat market in downtown Cedarville is KDUP 88.1FM, Giddy Up Radio!  The station is a non-commercial FM on the air 24/7. At this time reception is primarily limited to Surprise valley and Cedar Pass, but the station will soon be available worldwide via streaming audio.

"People ask what type of music I'll be playing and I say, "There're 2-300 people and 20,000 cows listening at any one time. Guess!" It'll be old time country music that's been discarded from the airways, but it's what we like around here," explains Jeff Cotton who with his wife Sheila owns the station.

Although KDUP will be primarily country western, Cotton will do other types of music and do live broadcasting of events taking place within the county, especially on weekends.

The construction of the station has been a lengthy process with the FCC. Initially Cotton filed for a station in 2002.

On Feb. 5, 2008, the FCC granted construction permits for four application: KDUP 88.1 fm, 88.9 fm, and 90.3 fm in Cedarville and KOOX 898.5 fm in Gerlach, Nev.

"Once KDUP radio is fully operational, we'll be working on KOOX 89.5 fm in Gerlach," said Cotton.

The stations will be operated under the umbrella of openskyradio.org. The OpenSkyRadio Corporation (OSR) is a not-for-profit California corporation founded in July 2007 by the Cottons.
 "Of course building the station was much more expensive than the $30,000 I initially figured on. But we were determined to get licensed and on the air," said Cotton.

The station will be relying on local sponsors to help finance the broadcasts.

"The Surprise-Black Rock area encompasses a vast high desert region on the western edge of the Great Basin geological distinction of the North American continent. A region that contains two million acres of the most uninhabited land in the 48 United States. This land is largely devoid of any man-made perturbances. It is the mission of OSR to simply provide music, education and culture to the otherwise empty ether of the region," explains Cotton.

The progress of the streaming audio may be monitored by going to openskyradio.org, which will soon have a link to access KDUP 88.1 FM in all of Modoc County and around the world.

Forest road comments until June 11

The Modoc National Forest is in the middle of a 30-day scoping period for their Travel Management Planning, considering 1,800 segments (nearly 600 miles) of unauthorized non-system roads for inclusion in the National Forest road system.

Most of these segments are less than one-quarter mile in length and have existed for years. Public input is a vital part of this planning effort. Comments should be received by Forest by June 11.
The next meetings is scheduled for May 29 at Honkers in Tulelake. Each open house will be from 6 to 8 p.m.

Last fall, public input was received at a number of meetings, including four open houses in November. A proposed action was developed based on public input and resource specialist evaluation. A notice of intent was published in the Federal Register on May 12. This was the official start of public information gathering, which will end on Jun. 11.

"We listened to the comments and concerns of people during these workshops," said Forest Supervisor Stan Sylva. "We've carefully considered what people told us and we've looked at and discussed each segment of the inventoried non-system routes proposed to be added to our permanent road system. Now I'm asking Forest users to look at our best effort and share with us your thoughts about the proposed action maps."

Hard copy maps are available for review at all Modoc National Forest offices. You can receive your own copy of a CD containing each of the proposed action maps free of charge at the same locations.
For additional information or to schedule a Forest Service person to talk to your group, call Williams at (530) 233-8713. Learn more about the travel management planning process at www.fs.fed.us/r5/modoc.

Obituaries:

Virginia Salome Clark Kelley

Born February 24, 1927 in Eureka, California, Virginia was the only child of Charles Frank Clark and Irma (Hunter) Clark, descendants of pioneers to the Mattole Valley in California. Virginia was raised in Petrolia, CA around her grandparents and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She moved to Eureka for her high school years and graduated from Eureka High in the class of 1945. Like many women during World War lI, she joined the War effort in Eureka working for Chicago Bridge and Iron Co.
Virginia married John Kelley in Eureka on April 21, 1946, following his Navy service during WW ll. She and John returned to the Kelley Ranch, west of Alturas, CA and raised Registered Polled Hereford and beef cattle for nearly 50 years. They also operated Kelley Meat Company on the ranch. They had 2 children, Cheryl and Ron. Virginia was active in all the aspects of ranching, Farm Bureau and Cattlewoman organizations.

In addition to ranching, Virginia maintained an office for the Modoc County Farm Bureau and sold Cal-Farm insurance to the members. In the late 1960's, Virginia became the secretary to Loring White, Modoc County Agricultural Commissioner. She continued to work for several Ag Commissioners until her retirement from the County. Virginia also served on the board for Western State Fairs during that time.

An avid gardener and cook, she loved raising roses and entertaining. She enjoyed traveling and was fortunate to visit many U.S. cities as well as other countries. Virginia was preceded in death by her husband John Edward Kelley, a native Modocer.

Due to the brain condition of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, Virginia moved to Plano, Texas in 2003 to be with her daughter and son-in-law, Rob and Cheryl Swihart. Though physically debilitated by her condition, she was able to experience the many activities, new friendships and events that the Dallas area offered. She was especially happy to have time with her granddaughter, Colleen, and to be able to attend some of Colleen's ballet performances.

Virginia was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Plano. Her life was a gift to her family and friends. They will cherish and remember her energy and friendship - special times spent with her. In more recent times, Virginia's love, grace, peace and acceptance of her personal adversities was an inspiration.

Virginia passed into eternal life with her Lord and Savior on May 14, 2008. A celebration of her life and Resurrection was held on May 20th at Christ United Methodist Church. Graveside services and interment at the Alturas Cemetery will be at a later date.

To sign an online register please visit www.TJMfuneral.com

Laura Marie McKee


Laura Marie McKee of Alturas, born October 5, 1953 at Herick Hospital in Berkeley, CA, passed away on May 24, 2008 in Reno, NV.

Laura was a beloved wife and mother. She is survived by parents Harvey and Edna Allen of Carson City, NV; husband Floyd (Todd) McKee of Alturas, CA; son Ben Potap, age 25, of Alturas, CA; stepchildren Cambria Amaker and Travis McKee; siblings Liz Gaiser of Chinese Camp, CA; Bill Allen, Valley Springs, CA and Lenette "Net" McGilvray of Stockton; grandchildren Baret Amaker, Logan and Kaylee McKee and Chantel and Tytus Potap.

Laura graduated from high school in Oakdale, CA and earned her Associates degree from U.C. Davis, CA. She was an accountant and later became a CPA in Stockton, CA, where she worked for many years. Her son Ben was born in Stockton in October 1982. In 1992, they relocated from Stockton to Alturas to make their home in a safer community.

Laura was employed with the Modoc Department of Social Services as an eligibility worker for over six years, until she fell ill. She moved to Reno, NV in July 2007 for health reasons and was being cared for at Regent Care Center in Reno while she battled her debilitating illness and enjoyed weekly visits with her family.

Laura loved nothing more than to spend time with her family and smile. She will be missed greatly.
Services will be held June 14, 2008 in Carson City, NV at the Comstock Mobile Village from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Local services will be held at Christian Life Assembly Church in Alturas, at 11 a.m. on June 21, 2008, with a fellowship meal to follow the services.

John Gilbert Montgomery

John Gilbert Montgomery, well loved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend to many, left his earthly body at the age of 83, on May 7, 2008 at his home in Susanville, CA. John was born on April 21, 1925 and experienced life in full. He often spoke with great pride of his experiences and exploits while serving his country in the United States Navy during World War II. John's proudest moment in World War II was being the Quartermaster (the youngest Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy) on the U.S.S. Token, AM-126, the second surface vessel to enter Tokyo Harbor on the day before Japan's surrender. He is another of that Greatest Generation, whose strong character, love of God, his country and always his family and friends left a strong impression that will not soon be filled. John talked often of that "next great adventure." Our beloved patriarch often told us that his only disappointment in this life was the loss of his son, John Henry King Montgomery, who left us too early at the age of 35. John always spoke of his treasure of a lifetime of friends and family. He kept in contact with many of his friends from George Washington High School, traveled through the "Great War" intact with them, and raised families together. After the war John earned his Bachelors of Business Administration from Loyola University in 1950. John had been a lifeguard, a radio disc jockey, a surfer, a golfer, skier, and began his career in business.

In 1971, John left a successful career in Los Angeles and moved his entire family to the Madeline Plains. He often stated that, "It was the best decision I ever made." Mr. Montgomery supported and raised two families in Madeline, California at the "Everybody's Inn" cafe and went on to learn commercial truck driving and heavy equipment operation and retired at the age of 62 from the Lassen County Road Department. John and Luanne were married Dec. 17, 1949. They moved to Susanville nine years ago.

Mr. Montgomery is survived by his wife Luanne Montgomery of Susanville; their daughters Christine Chapman, Susanville; Laura Wilson, Kettle Falls, WA and Anna Allen, Paradise, CA; grandchildren Richard Jackson, Christine Pettengill, Jason Wilson, Christine Bunker, Kimberly Chapman, Jonathan and Andrew Montgomery and nine great-grandchildren. He treasured us all, including his sons-in-law Terry Chapman, Don Wilson, Russell Allen and daughter-in-law Diannea (Montgomery) Hickey and grandsons Richard Pettengill, Jaime Wilson and Jason Bunker. His love and guidance has always been available and will never be forgotten throughout the generations. He taught us "Family is everything" and stood by that creed throughout his life. We will always miss his great booming laughter and love, but our faith and hope guarantees that we will someday join him in his "Next Great Adventure." We invite all who knew and loved him to join us at the Celebration of his Life on Saturday, May 31, which will be held at the Lassen Senior Services, 1700 Sunkist Drive, Susanville, CA at 1:00 p.m. As John always loved a pot-luck and a great gathering, we ask that everyone bring a dish and come with some wonderful memories.

Dawn Marie Lance

Dawn Marie Lance of Alturas, passed away May 26, 2008 in Alturas, CA. Service arrangements are pending with Kerr Mortuary.

Sports

Disc Golf Course opener waits until July 3

The new disc golf course grand opening at the Warner Street Park scheduled for Friday has been postponed due to bad weather. The new date will be July 3rd at 5:00 pm

New will be a disc golf tournament that day.

The game of disc golf has exploded in recent years, and is now being enjoyed
by people of all ages on over 1,400 courses in the United States. The game
is similar to traditional ball golf. Players use special Frisbees (golf
discs) instead of balls and clubs, and throw them at an above-ground target
instead of a hole in the ground.

There are different types of golf discs used for different purposes, much like ball golfers use different clubs.

Men, women, and kids of all ages are playing on disc golf courses. Players are drawn by many of the same pleasures found in traditional ball golf: fresh air, exercise, the camaraderie of friends, and challenge and
excitement of combining personal skill and speed to project an object toward
a target. The rules are simple to grasp, allowing beginners to immediately
have fun challenging themselves and their friends.

Perhaps the greatest factor behind disc golf's broad accessibility is its
low cost. Players need nothing more than an $8-$15 golf disc.

Additionally, the Alturas course, located at the Warner Street Park (N.
Warner and W. 8th), will be free to the public. This factor alone opens the
game up to countless Modoc residents who cannot afford many of today’s other popular recreation activities.

The new disc golf course is sponsored by Modoc Co. Mental Health and Public Health (HAND Project), Rollie Gilliam Realty, Modoc Co. Office of Ed, and Modoc Co. Parks and Recreation.

Jr. Fish Derby in Big Valley

A Junior Fishing Derby is all set for June 14 at the Ash Creek Wildlife Area in Big Valley.

The derby is free to all kids ages 15 and under and there will be special prizes for the largest fish and smallest fish caught, plus prizes for all anglers. The contest will run from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.

The event is sponsored by the Pit River Rod and Gun Club and the Department of Fish and Game, Ash Creek Wildlife Area.

Anglers need to pre-register and may pick up application forms at the Ash Creek Wildlife Area Office or Adin Supply. For more information call 294-584 or 299-3414.

June 5, 2008

News

Bullock, Cantrall win; run-off for District 4

There will be at least one new face on the Modoc County Board of Supervisors in January.
Jeff Bullock soundly defeated District II incumbent Mike Dunn by a 60.31 percent to 38.93 percent margin, 395 votes to 255 in Tuesday's election.

District III incumbent Patricia Campbell easily survived a challenge from Walt Nicholson, winning with 60.39 percent to 39.45 percent, 372 votes to 243 votes.

There will be a run-off in District IV this November as none of the three candidates received over 50 percent of the vote. Jim Wills led the tally with 46.89 percent of the vote (294) while incumbent Shorty Crabtree garnered 44.5 percent (279 votes). Those two will face off in the general election. Ron McCullough picked up 8.29 percent of the vote (52 votes).

Modoc Republicans liked Tom McClintock by 58.76 percent or 922 votes in the U.S. Representative race. Doug Ose received 34.99 percent (549 votes); Suzanna Jones had 77 votes (4.91 percent); Theodore Terbolizard had 12 votes (.76 percent).

McCintock won the district-wide vote with 53.7 percent of the vote; Ose had 38.7 percent; Jones 5.4 percent; and Terbolizard 2.2 percent. McClintock will face off the Democrat Charlie Brown in November for the seat now held by John Doolittle. Brown received 88 percent of the district Democratic vote and 80 percent in Modoc.

In the State Assembly race, Republican Jim Nielsen had 45.1 percent; Charles Schaupp had 23.1 percent; Peter Stiglich had 18.7 percent and Etna's John Martinez had 13.1 percent. In Modoc, Nielsen had 37.68 percent (569 votes); Schaupp had 27.22 percent (411 votes); Martinez had 23.25 percent (351 votes); and Stiglich had 11.59 percent.

Democrat Paul Singh picked up 20,011 district-wide and 663 votes in Modoc.
In the race for State Senate, Republican Dave Cox received 69,451 votes in got 1,389 votes in Modoc. Democrat Anselmo Chavez received 638 votes in that primary,

Proposition 98, limits on government authority failed statewide by 61 percent of the vote. In Modoc, voters 63.93 percent voted yes.

Proposition 99; limits on government acquisition passed statewide by 62.5 percent. Modoc voters liked it by a 51.23 percent to 48.77 percent margin.

Only 52.76 percent Modoc voters cast ballots in this elect, low for this county as 2,776 out of 5,262 cast ballots.

Major assaults in Alturas

Two major assaults were reported in Alturas this last week, one where a victim was hit directly in the face with a baseball bat and another where three men attacked another man, who ended up stabbing one of the initial attackers.

Both cases remain under investigation by Alturas Police who expect more arrests to be made in the near future.

According to Alturas Police Officer Tex Dowdy, on May 30 about 9 p.m. Bradford Jensen, age 22, Alturas was in a heated phone conversation with a 17-year-old juvenile and had agreed to meet the juvenile behind Modoc High School to apparently settle some issues.

The APD reports that when Jensen arrived at the high school, he saw five men. As soon as he exited his vehicle, he said the juvenile he had been talking with swung a metal baseball bat, striking him squarely in the face. Another man then hit him with another baseball bat and the other people involved started kicking and hitting Jensen as he was on the ground.

Jensen sustained major facial injuries and is in medical care in Reno, where he faces multiple facial surgeries.

The juvenile in the case was arrested alleging assault with a deadly weapon causing great bodily harm and aggravated mayhem. Police are searching for the other four suspects, at least one who is expected to be an adult.

The second assault occurred Monday about 4:15 p.m. on Fourth Street in Alturas.

According to Dowdy, Alturas resident Roy Carroll was walking down Fourth Street, when a vehicle containing three men and a teenage driver pulled up along side. The three in the vehicle exchanged verbal insults with Carroll and then, according to eyewitness accounts, the three of them, Phillip Brooks, Eric Dillon and Joel Townsend jumped out of the vehicle, ran to Carroll and started hitting and kicking him, knocking him to the ground.

Carroll pulled out a pocketknife to defend himself and stabbed Dillon in the arm. The beating then subsided and Carroll rushed to a local home, ran inside and locked the door to escape the trio. The homeowner forced him out and he exited through the back door.

Carroll was soon detained by Police and booked into the Modoc County Jail pending further investigation and possible charges. He can claim self defense in the attack. The three attackers left the scene and Dillon was taken to Modoc Medical Center for treatment. The case remains under investigation and more charges could be filed.

BLM office opens two free firewood cutting areas

The Bureau of Land Management's Alturas Field Office has opened two free firewood cutting areas, anticipating that wood cutting will help thin juniper stands and reduce hazardous fuels.

The juniper wood cutting areas are at Mitchell Hill, east of Likely on Clark Valley Road; and the Moon Springs and North Coble areas, about five miles south of Fall River Mills.

To use these areas, wood cutters must have valid firewood cutting permits, available at the BLM field office in Alturas and at the Lassen National Forest Hat Creek Ranger District in Fall River Mills. The BLM will issue one permit per person, per year. Each permit is good for five cords of firewood for personal use.

"We opened up these areas to free use based on a recommendation from our citizen-based Resource Advisory Council," said Tim Burke, manager of the BLM Alturas Field Office. "At Mitchell Hill there is a lot of wood left on the ground from a juniper thinning operation. The other sites are more remote and more difficult to access, but we want to encourage woodcutting there to reduce encroaching juniper."

BLM's northeast California field offices allow firewood cutting in specially-designated areas. Offices occasionally open free use areas in association with forest health or hazardous fuels reduction programs.

For more information, contact the Alturas Field Office, (530) 233-4666.

More input sought on FS road issues

The Modoc National Forest has completed the second round of Travel Management public open houses. Comments about the proposed action will be helpful if received by June 11.

Four meetings were held, one each in Cedarville, Alturas, Adin and Tulelake. About forty people attended the four meetings.

Many people asked questions and voiced concerns about off-road vehicle use. They want to make sure good loop routes are available to ride their quads and dirt bikes. There are some roads that the Forest proposes to designate as "street legal vehicles only." These are roads that are maintained for low clearance vehicles and higher speeds. The majority of Forest roads are proposed for "mixed use." They would allow both street legal and green sticker vehicles.

The Forest is considering doing traffic counts on roads and intersections where mixed use is being considered. These counts may be done using electronic devices, forest personnel and/or volunteers. Improving understanding of use rates and speeds will help the Forest make better decisions for the safety of the Forest Road users.

Additional meetings have been scheduled with groups who want to learn about the proposed action. Meetings will be held with the California Wilderness Coalition, the Sheriff's Posse, the Motocross group, the Modoc County Transportation Commission and the Board of Supervisors.

Forest personnel are looking for other opportunities to explain and receive input on the planning process and the proposed action. Please call Laura Williams at 233-8713 to set up a presentation for your group.

Hospital debt tops $11 million

Modoc Medical Center posted an increase of $197,210 to its county debt in May, according to Modoc County Auditor Judi Stevens. For the first five months of this year, the debt has increased by $837,197.

May's hospital debt went up to $11,091,365 from $10,894,425 at the end of April and from $10,472,337 at the end of March.

The debt continues to go the wrong way, as it was $10,423,955 at the end of February. That compares to a debt of $10,254,168 at the end of January.

The debt was $9,796,084 at the end of December.

The debt has increased since September 2005's $4,690,812 by a total of $6,400,553.

Obituaries:


Dawn Marie Lance

Dawn Marie Lance entered into rest on May 26, 2008, in Alturas, CA, at the age of 26. Pastor Curtis Barber will conduct services on Sunday, June 8 at 2 p.m. at the Alturas Cemetery, where Dawn will be laid to rest near her father. All friends and family are invited to gather following the service for a potluck and time of fellowship on Veterans' Park patio, So. Main St., Alturas.

Dawn was born in Sacramento, CA on March 24, 1982 to Barbara and Donald E. Lance. Dawn attended preschool through high school in Alturas. After her father passed away in October 1992, Dawn's mother moved from the area, but Dawn chose to stay in Alturas until she finished high school. Dawn traveled the U.S., with only three more states left to visit she told an aunt. "She was like a gypsy, and traveled from Alaska to Florida, never staying longer than six months at any place. She had moved back to Alturas three months ago, from Nebraska, where she had worked at Tyson Foods, Inc. in York, Nebraska," said her aunt Linda Cleveland of Alturas.

Dawn had many, many friends. Those who knew her, loved her very much. She touched many lives in one way or another.

"Dawn never knew a stranger and she always had a smile," described her aunt. "She liked to write letters and had friends all over the country."

Dawn was loved by her family very much. Rest in peace, Baby Girl.

Dawn is survived by her mother Barbara McMillen Lance of Sedro Woolley, Washington; sister Tanya Corona of Adamsville, Tennessee; two brothers Donald Eugene Lance, Jr. of Sacramento, CA; and Larry McMillen of York, Nebraska; aunt and uncle Tammy and husband Tony Dawson of Corning, CA; aunt Linda Cleveland, Alturas; aunt Kathy Gillespie, Santa Rosa, CA; aunt Danielle Dodd, Alturas; uncles Grady White, Alturas and Gene Bell of Houston, Texas.

Donations to help with funeral expenses, may be sent to Tammy and Tony Dawson, 20050 Gyle Rd., Corning, CA 96021. Kerr Mortuary is handling arrangements.

Marion Weimer Ladewig

Marion Weimer Ladewig, 82, of Lake City, CA. died May 31, 2008 at Surprise Valley Hospital in Cedarville, CA. Mrs. Ladewig was born in Pacific Grove, CA. Her family will provide information for an obituary and her memorial service at a future date. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Glen Edward Wilson

Glen Edward Wilson, 60, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, June 1, 2008, at his home in Likely, Calif., with his wife at his side.

Glen was born on Feb. 27, 1948, in Alturas, Calif., to the late Harold and Della Wilson. He attended high school in Modoc County and pursued vocational training in carpentry at Lassen and Lane colleges.

Making his home in Klamath Falls, he worked alongside his uncle Miller Anderson, learning the business of Christmas trees, ranching, and rodeos. Later, he worked for the U.S. Forest Service and Columbia Plywood.

With his love of carpentry, he used his skills to build and remodel Indian Full Gospel Churches.
Glen was a full blood, bona fide member of the Hammawi Band of the Pit River Tribe. In the 1980s, he served on the Pit River Tribal Council and helped write the Tribe's Constitution. Being raised in the Christian way, he would be called to serve the Lord throughout his lifetime and enjoyed traveling to Indian camp meetings and revivals.

Through his one-of-a-kind parenting style, he earned the title of being the "coolest dad in the world." Glen found joy in his family, flat pushing mom's buttons, camping trips, bonfires, dice games, walking his signs, and especially serving the Lord.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years Deanna; daughters and sons-in-law Angela Wilson and Russell Pool, SheAnn Wilson and Emmitt Hicks, Monica and Kody Yellow Owl of Klamath Falls, Ore., Morning Wilson and Martin Martinez of Alturas, Calif.; son Newmie Wilson of Likely, Calif.; grandchildren Gabriella Pool, Tayler Pool and Faron Hicks of Klamath Falls and family dog Kadee; brother Delwood Wilson; sisters Elaine Brazzanovich, Nancy Torres and Cheryl Kennedy; elder aunts Geneva Barlese and Lavina Anderson of Klamath Falls, Ore.; and elder uncles Hank Wilson of Hat Creek, Calif., and Bill Wilson of Gerber, Calif. He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers Eddie, Kenny, and Danny Wilson, father-in-law Edison Chiloquin, uncle Miller Anderson, niece Shelly Kennedy and family dog Indaway.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 5, at Davenport's Chapel of the Good Shepherd in Klamath Falls. A second service will be held with a traditional wake beginning at 8:30 p.m. Friday, June 6, at Modoc Full Gospel Church in Alturas, Calif., followed a service beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 7. Burial will follow at Likely Cemetery in Likely, Calif., followed by fellowship at the Likely Fire Hall. Arrangements handled by Davenport's Chapel of the Good Shepherd.

Service for Jim Wynne

A Memorial Service for Alturas resident James "Jim" Robert Wynne will be held Saturday, June 7 at 1 p.m. at the home of his friends Butch and Sharon Rabbe of Alturas.

Mr. Wynne, 55, passed way due to liver and kidney failure on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA.

He is survived by his mother Dorothy Boyd and stepfather Strother Boyd of Alturas; brother Ben Wynne of Reno, NV; sister Beth MacKenzie of Carson City, NV; brother Alan Wynne of Atlanta, Georgia. Mr. Wynne's obituary will be published at a future date. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Jason John Eberle, D.D.S.

Jason Eberle, 37, died suddenly of natural causes on May 27, 2008. His family is overwhelmed by the tragedy of Jason's passing. He touched the lives of so many and his absence will be deeply felt.
Jason was born April 3, 1971 and raised in Reno, NV. He graduated from Reno High School and the University of Nevada, Reno. He joined the U.S. Navy and completed post graduate studies at Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery, in New York City, graduating with honors. He then received a specialty certificate in Pediatric Dentistry in 2007 at UCLA.

Through much hard work and determination, Jason received his private pilot's license at the age of 19. Further evidence of his determination and independence was his ability to put himself through dental school. While attending Columbia University in New York City, Jason had the privilege of triaging victims of 9/11. Another one of Jason's greatest personal accomplishments was having his research published in the Columbia Dental Review.

Jason loved the outdoors and was an avid sportsman. His favorite spot for hunting and fishing was Surprise Valley, CA. Jason's canine companions, Hound and Eddie, were always at his side.
Jason resided in Reno with his wife of two years, Denise Eberle. He practiced in the Reno/Sparks and Elko, NV communities as a pediatric dentist. Jason earned the respect and admiration of his patients and colleagues through his compassionate, gentle nature and excellence in dentistry. Jason's love for Surprise Valley had inspired him to begin working with Dr. Harrower to help the community and surrounding areas.

Jason was loved and will be remembered for his clever witty remarks, practical jokes, contagious laugh, and intense loyalty to his friends, family and patients. He had many fond memories of road trips accompanied by good friends and good music. He continually sought knowledge through his love of literature and hours spent watching the History and Military Channels.

Jason is survived by his beloved wife, Denise, father Joseph Eberle, D.D.S. (Kani) of Reno, mother Jean Metzker Ph.D. of Walnut Creek, sisters Nikol Abelman (Billy) of Las Vegas, Nate Metzker (Cameron) of New York City, Annabeth Breen (Adam) of Salt Lake City, Monet Homze (Eric), Aleise Eberle and  Demi Eberle of Reno, and stepfamily Johnny Metzker, JK Metzker (Jamie), Kristin Rolling (Henry), Mini Peters (Dan) all of Reno, grandmother Bette Henrikson of Waukesha, Wisconsin, and numerous nieces and nephews.


Jason had a passion for providing dental care for underprivileged children. Because of numerous requests to honor him, the Jason Eberle Memorial Fund for Indigent Children has been established. This fund will be used to financially assist in dental treatment of children by volunteer dentists. Those desiring to contribute to this fund may do so through Nevada State Bank, Account no. 400114963.
Jason was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 100 Bishop Manogue Dr., Reno and a Funeral Mass will be held there on Saturday, June 7, at 10:00 a.m. with a private interment to follow at Mt. View Cemetery. A reception will follow the Mass at Arrow Creek Country Club. Walton Funeral Home is in care of arrangements. We invite you to send a condolence message in the "Remembrance Registry Guestbook" at the website of: www.waltonsfuneralhome.com
Jason will remain in our hearts and will be lovingly remembered forever.

Sports

Practice Day set for New MX race rack

The Modoc Motorsports Association has set a practice day for Father's Day June 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on its new Cedarville Fairgrounds MX racecourse.

MMA's Rendy Rees said people will be very impressed with the new racecourse, which was built recently by local individuals with help from experts out of Oregon.

Members of MMA have a practice day fee of $20 while non-member fee is $25.

"Father's Day will be a good day for riders to come to the official practice day and check out the course for themselves," said Rees. "We are pleased with the track and really excited about the upcoming race in July. We could still use some volunteers for race day."

The first race in Modoc will be July 11,12 and 13 at the Cedarville Fairgrounds Track will be a part of two series races out of the Medford and Keno, Oregon areas. Riders who come to this race will earn points in those series. Local riders have been competing in the Oregon series for the past couple of years and were anxious to get a race in Alturas. Well over 150 riders are expected for the event.

For the races, July 11 will be a practice day with races on July 12,13. The Pro-am event will have a $1,000 payout each day.

MMA is raffling a 2007 Yamaha Rhino 660 as the top prize to help fund the races. Second prize will be the ATV trailer and third prize is $250 cash.

The winning ticket will be drawn on July 13. Tickets are available at Modoc County Title, Pioneer Auto Body, Alturas Tire, Les Schwab Tire, True Value, and Main Street Coffee.

The newly formed MMA has about 70 members and is open and encouraging more members to join and help with the inaugural race.

Modoc hosts wrestling camp

Modoc High School is hosting a wrestling camp this summer, with Sierra College bringing its programs and coaches for the event. Sierra College was the state's Junior College Champions last year.

Modoc Head Coach Shaun Wood said the camp is open to all school ages and will be held June 17-18-19 at the Modoc High School Gym, running from 9 a.m. through about 3 pm.

Registration is $50 and wrestlers can contact him to register or register on the opening day of camp.

Big Valley looking for fast pitch teams

Big Valley Days organizers are looking for men's fastpitch softball teams to compete in this year's Big Valley Men's Fastpitch Softball tournament at the Big Valley Memorial Park June 28-29.

The entry fee is $250. For more information, contact Jim Carpenter at 294-5621.

June 12, 2008

News

Car's running on empty

With the price of gasoline exceeding five dollars a gallon, Cedarville resident Gary Odgers decided , not to complain, but to do something about it.

These days Odgers is driving past gas stations . . .smiling. His 1970 VW convertible is now powered by electricity.

"We got the car about 20 years ago. Our girls and their friends would play in it. The floor had rusted out so they would stand on the ground and steer the car," laughs Odgers.

The VW has been parked in the Odgers' garage for years and about five years ago they got a new top and paint job for the car.

In April, long time friend Jim Hawn and Odgers began talking about the possibility of converting the car from gasoline to electric.

"Jim ordered a kit. A weekend was planned to work and three days later the men were finished. On their maiden drive to Lake City, they were surprised when they spun the tires in the gravel in Odgers' driveway.

"We averaged 45 mph, a little slower on the hills, but faster on the slopes," explained Odgers.
The car's top speed so far is 60 mph when driving down to the causeway, slightly downhill. The car, with moderate use, needs recharging every three days. In time, the duration between charging will lengthen, as the batteries strengthen. The goal is to be able to get to Alturas and back, but weak brakes prevent any attempts at this time.

"We may take the car to San Diego and sell it. We're looking for more aerodynamic cars, like a 914 Porshe, a Pontiac Fiero or something similar. If it catches the eye and has a rear engine we're interested," said Odgers.

Both men are sure that technology will improve and prices drop for the kits and the batteries.
At the end of the interview Odgers gets in his VW. There's a click as he turns on the motor, engines use gasoline, motors electricity. The only sounds are the tires as they roll down the driveway.

Odgers is so confident with their work that he doesn't even carry an extension cord in his trunk.
Odgers is now one of three people with completely electric powered vehicles in the valley.

"Facts show that 70% of the driving we do is within ten miles of our homes, so electric powered vehicles are a good decision. The constant stopping and starting on short trips is not good for gasoline economy. With electric cars it doesn't matter," said Thomas Whitehead, who along with his wife Judith, each own and use electric scooters when commuting around Surprise Valley.

Secure schools funding still in limbo

While Washington fiddles, schools in the west may be burning, figuratively.

Modoc County Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones was updated Monday by Bob Canavan, the California County Superintendents' contact in Washington D.C., concerning Secure Rural School and MAA (Medicaid Reimbursement). The news wasn't positive.

"After the Memorial Day recess the House defeated a long-term extension of the
Secure Rural Schools program, with an amendment focusing just on the extension of the Secure Rural Schools program, which was heard in the House on the suspension calendar normally reserved for non-controversial legislation," said Jones. "The problem was the source of revenues to finance the program generated opposition resulting in a 218-193 vote for H.R. 3058, far short of the two-thirds vote necessary for approval. H.R. 3058 required oil companies to pay royalties for oil leases on federal lands not previously collected."

The Secure Schools funding was largely paid for over the last century by allocating 25 percent of the timber revenue generated by logging to the fund. The oil companies have not been a part of that deal even though they produce revenue off the federal lands in the nation.

Jones also said the internal debate in Congress over the Supplemental Appropriations bill, (Iraq war funding) especially in the House, is affecting domestic programs such as short-term funding for the Secure Rural Schools program and a much needed moratorium on Medicaid Administration (MAA) regulations.

"Congress provided $400 million to fund a one-year extension of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act in 2007 and is considering another one-year extension in the current Supplemental Appropriations bill," Jones explained. "California's counties and schools stand to lose $68 million in funding for schools and county governments in the current year if Congress does not extend the program. Our local schools will lose $1.4 million."

County Road Departments receives 50 percent of the revenue allowed in the Act, so those departments will also be affected.

Jones said the Supplemental Appropriations bill could also prevent the Department of Health and Human Services from ending the funding for transportation and administration services for Special Education and Medicaid eligible students. However, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the House leaders are considering not including MAA in the Supplemental Appropriations Bill, despite overwhelming support in the House and in the Senate. The loss in revenue to Modoc schools is estimated to be $700,000.

"The next fiscal year for our schools begins in three weeks and we have little hope that Congress and the President will come to terms on a bill which provides necessary revenue for Secure Rural Schools or Medicaid Reimbursement," Jones said.

The county office and all districts in the county have been advised not to budget the Secure Schools as revenue this next year. The schools in the county are largely able to avoid major layoffs for this year, but a continuing loss of those funds would impact severely in the next budget cycle.

All school districts and county schools offices in the northstate are once again going into a budget year without firm numbers from either the state or federal governments.

If the dismal budget projections and realities continue, jobs may not be secure for long into the future.
Jones is confident that even with the impending budget cuts at the state and federal level, the county office and local school districts "have necessary reserves to withstand the initial affects of such large losses in revenue."

He continues to stress, however, that school systems cannot sustain annual losses of this size without changes to educational programs and services.

High gas prices increasing thefts

The high cost of gas and diesel fuel is contributing to the rebirth of a lost art, siphoning gas.
According to Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes, there are more and more reports of gas thefts occurring within the city of Alturas. In one case at least 50 gallons of diesel was stolen from a truck fuel tank. At today's Alturas prices the amount of theft at $5.29 per gallon amounts to $264.50.
The price unleaded as of Tuesday was a high of $4.69 per gallon in Alturas. With a 10-gallon purchase costing nearly $50, Barnes said he is advising residents to get locking gas caps, or at least make sure their vehicles are parked in an area where potential gas thieves would have a harder time stealing the fuel.

"I expect it to get worse, and I certainly don't see gas prices falling anytime soon," Barnes said this week. "The price of gas is becoming a real burden for people, and unfortunately, a real target for thieves."

According to the Automobile Association of American the average price of unleaded across the nation was $4.03 per gallon on Tuesday. The average price in California was $4.43. The average price for diesel nationwide was $4.69 and $4.99 in California.

Car hits bear on Cedar Pass

A car hit a bear on State Route 299 June 4 about 7:45 p.m., without injury to the driver and the bear was not located.

According to the California Highway Patrol, Mary Curtis, of Iowa City, Iowa, was eastbound in a 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix when she swerved to miss the bear on Cedar Pass. The car did make contact with the bear, causing minor damage to the vehicle which had to be towed back from the edge of the road. The bear apparently continued on its way and it is unknown whether it sustained any serious injury.

New low-income apartments proposed in Alturas

A new 64-unit low income apartment complex called Fandango Village has been proposed off Thomason Lane about 300 feet north of State Route 299 (behind the Modoc National Forest headquarters).

The developer of the complex, National Affordable Communities, of Newport Beach, Ca., asked the Alturas City County for support last night during a regular council meeting.

The council asked the developer to bring back more information for the next meeting.

The City does have some concerns with the project, not the least of which is as a low income and federal funded program, it would not be subject to the same level of property tax, but would require a host of city services. The developer has indicated a willingness to address the city's concerns.
According to the plan, the complex will have eight, two-story buildings on a nearly five acre footprint and contain 32 two-bedroom apartments and 32 three-bedroom units.

There will also be a recreation center and a manager's quarters. Covered parking will be provided for 130 vehicles and visitor parking would be plentiful

The two bedroom units would be about 865 square feet and the three bedroom units about 1,077 square feet.

According to the application, the units would be restricted to tenants earning 30 percent to 60 percent of the area's median income.

In other action Tuesday night, the City Council named John Dederick as Mayor and former Mayor John Schreiber will serve as Mayor pro-tem. The council also honored retiring George Andreasen for the 12 years of service to the city and officially seated his replacement, Bobby Ray.

Don't miss the train . . . Get tickets now

An entire day of fun, a barbecued lunch, special train ride on the Argo Gold Mine Train, full day of entertainment, incredible outdoor setting, plenty to see and do for young and old alike at "Baker's 10-Acre Railway Gardens" on Pine Creek Blvd. near Alturas, is a deal that shouldn't be missed for $15 per person on Saturday, June 21, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

But, don't wait. No tickets will be sold the day of this event billed the fourth annual "June Jamboree." All tickets must be purchased in advance with specific train ride reservations required. Contact any Modoc branch library or the Alturas Library for tickets.

A chance to win $150 toward gas/diesel, at $1 per ticket or six for $5 will also be offered. Pick up tickets at Alturas Library, Plumas Bank or the day of the event.

New this year at the June Jamboree is the Hoist House and Mining operation, where gold panning demonstrations will be ongoing, a General Store, filled with items, just like in the days of old and a one room school house, circa 1800s. Steve Baker has built and filled every one of the historic town buildings with equipment and products from past eras, from the blacksmith shop to the barber shop. The Bakers, who renovated and formerly owned the Niles Hotel in Alturas, will also be holding an antique and collectibles sale during the June Jamboree. In addition gently used and brand new books will be available at the Silent Auction and Book Sale, through Friends of the Library and located near the not-to-be-missed General Store.

But don't forget your train ride time. The train departs on schedule, so people should arrive early for their seats.

Returning this year will be The Cascade Civil War Society full of surprises, dressed in period regalia and willing to share a bit of history. Ticket holders can explore the secrets of the flowing gardens, ponds and bridges. Kids can have fun entering the "Treasure Hunt." All ages will enjoy self-guided tours through the many unique buildings, exotic aviary, Bayou cabin and more, as the music plays on. Live entertainment and demonstrations ongoing throughout the day.

Look for a sheep next to the Wool spinning demonstration or take five minutes out for a rejuvenating massage by a licensed/certified massage, in return for a donation toward next year's June Jamboree. A children's play area will also be available.

Entertainers this fourth June Jamboree year will include pianist Jim Codona, Patty Henderson on violin, Don Roby on bagpipes, Wild Plum Jam Band, Clarence Wager with cowboy poetry.
All tickets holders have the opportunity to enjoy the barbecue lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The event made possible through the generosity of Steve and Cheryl Baker, counts on 50 volunteers and a working committee comprised of Friends of the Modoc County Library, including Modoc County Librarian Cheryl Baker, Joanna Chrysler, Fay Stahl, Charlene Dupraz, Carol Sharp, Mark Steffek, Dick Read, Marty Butow. The "Friends of the Modoc County Library Committee" has organized the event each year for the past three, with all proceeds and support from the community to benefit the Library Improvement Fund.

A parent or adult must accompany children. Concessions of chips, water, soft drinks will also be available throughout the day.

Obituaries:


Freda Clark

Freda K. Clark, 82, passed away at her home in Adin, CA on May 10, 2008. Graveside services were held May 13, 2008 at the Adin Cemetery, Adin. Bishop Perry Clark of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints officiated.

Born Freda Smith on March 23, 1926 in McCammon, ID, Freda married Howard Clark on December 30, 1941 in Carson City, NV. She has lived in Modoc County for 80 years.

Freda was a homemaker and loved reading and crossword puzzles.

She is survived by husband Howard Clark of Adin; children Janice Weigand of Chico, Donna Woolery of Dairy, OR, Perry Clark and Sam of Adin, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Freda was preceded in death by her sons in-law Dale Weigand and George Woolery and her grandson Ryan Clark. Donations can be made to the Intermountain Hospice Program. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Brent Gregory Peeck

Brent Gregory Peeck, born April 20, 1978 at Washoe Medical Center (Renown) and returned to his Heavenly Father June 4, 2008.

Brent grew up in Washoe Valley where he would ride his favorite pony Misty. He loved all animals, always having several pet dogs and donkeys. Brent attended Pleasant Valley School and was also part of the first freshman class at Galena High School. He lettered in varsity cross country while there. Brent excelled in most sports. He played Washoe County Little League, was an excellent BMX bike racer and an accomplished snow boarder and skier. Brent later moved to Truckee, CA where he graduated from Sierra High School in 1996. He attended Santa Rosa Junior College where he studied environmental science.

Brent enjoyed working on his mother's ranch in Fort Bidwell, CA. He cared for many livestock, cut firewood, repaired fences and kept irrigation ditches open. He loved being outdoors in addition to hiking and camping. He hoped to return to Alaska one day to work in the fishing industry.
Brent is survived by his mother Valerie Asa Gillogley of Ft. Bidwell, CA, and his father Steve Peeck (wife Ginger) of Reno, NV; his sister Danica Asa of McCall, ID; paternal grandmother Virginia Peeck; uncles and aunts Greg and Maureen Peeck, Glen and Pamela Wiley; nephew Austin West; cousins Ryan and Kyle Peeck and Morgan and Katie Wiley.

At the time of Brent's death, he had been learning to become a certified tree arborist while working with Tree Tenders. He was appreciative of this opportunity to hone his skills while making new friends with the crew members. Brent attended meetings at the Triangle Club and could also be seen enjoying his morning cup of coffee at the Java Jungle. Brent was blessed to have mentors Bill Holden and John Krick who helped guide him on his journey.

Interment will take place at the Ft. Bidwell Cemetery in Ft. Bidwell, CA. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 14 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ft. Bidwell Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Victims Services Unit, Reno Nevada Police Department, Nevada Humane Society or any other charity.

Brent will be forever deeply and profoundly loved and missed by his family and many friends.

Clinton Burl Seal

Clinton Burl Seal, 48, born and reared in Alturas and a graduate of Modoc Union High, passed away June 9, 2008 in Roseburg, OR where he lived. Services are under the direction of Kerr Mortuary, Alturas with visitation on Friday, June 20 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Services at the Kerr Chapel at 11 a.m. June 20 with graveside at the Alturas Cemetery to follow.

Among those who survive Clinton are his parents Arthada and Joe "Pops" Higgs of Alturas; wife Michel Seal and two sons Phillip and Clinton James "C.J." Seal of Roseburg, OR; two grandchildren; aunt and uncle Ruth and Art St. John of Alturas, CA. Mr. Seal's obituary will be published next week.

June 19th, 2008

News

MMC nearing Critical Access survey

The long-awaited Critical Access Hospital survey for Modoc Medical Center is expected to take place next month, according to interim administrator Jim Sato.

"I feel very good about the survey and our ability to pass," said Sato. "We've worked hard to get the right things in place and have used a $10,000 state grant to hire a consultant to help us with the preparation. We feel good about where things are."

Sato predicts that if the hospital attains Critical Access status, it could boost the bottom line by about $700,000 per year. A Joint Commission of Accreditation made up of the American Hospital Association and American Medical Association will do the survey.

Sato said he would expect the actually accreditation to be in place by September.

"The only frustrating part of all of this is I think we're doing pretty well putting things in place but the state is trying to balance its budget off MediCal payments to hospitals," said Sato.

According to the California Hospital Association, the estimated impact of projected state budget cuts to Modoc Medical Center could amount to $1,103,977 in fiscal year 2008-09.

If that projection turns into reality, it could jeopardize keeping the hospital open and operating, according to county officials.

Sato projects a 2009 annual loss of $2.6 million if the state cuts survive the legislature, versus a projected $1.1 million loss if they don't. The hospital's actual loss for 2007 was $2.8 million and the estimate for this year is $2.5 million. Currently MMC's debt to Modoc County has risen to over $11 million.

"In short, the new estimate is that Modoc Medical Center will get $1.1 million less money instead of losing just $600,000 per year," Sato said. "The major changes are new proposals to cut eligibility requirements so fewer people will qualify for Medi-Cal; new proposals to cut the benefits of Medi-Cal recipients mean fewer services will be covered and new proposals to reduce the reimbursement rates for outpatient clinics mean MMC would get paid less for the same services offered."

While there are ominous issues facing the hospital, the new CT scanner has proven very useful in the short term, said Sato.

He said since the first scan on May 6, there have been over 100 CT scans at the hospital. The hospital is billing each CT scan at $1,100, but what the actual payment from insurance companies or state and federal programs will be is still unknown. One CT covered by an insurance company did pay about $900. The hospital has not yet received a reimbursement from MediCal, but Sato is guessing the payment could be around $600.

The original financial estimates for the CT scans were based on it doing about seven scans each week. Sato estimates that the actual number so far has been about 14 per week.

"I'll tell you, having access to the CT scan here has been a real benefit for patient care," he said. "We can determine whether someone can be treated here or has to be flown out with some certainty."

This last Saturday was unusual for the hospital emergency room, Sato said about a dozen cases cropped up in a short period of time. The emergency crews were on the run all afternoon. Out of those cases came one CT scan and eight emergency X-rays.

"I also want people to know that we are getting a lot of good community reactions on this acquisition and on our service in general," Sato has said.  "On May 27, 2008 at the Board of Supervisors meeting, a member of the community publicly commended the hospital staff on the fine care her family received by the staff, physicians and technologists.  She even said that in the past she was not very impressed by the hospital, but she now fully supports our efforts.  The CT scanner allowed her family member to be treated at Modoc Medical Center!"

Pair of vans stopped, 26 illegal aliens booked

The California Highway Patrol stopped a van on U.S. 395 south of Alturas Saturday night on speeding charges and radioed ahead that another van was heading into town.

Alturas Police stopped the second van on Main Street, near Fifth Street about 10 p.m.

Arrested out of both vans were 26 illegal aliens, who were booked into the Modoc County Jail. According to local law enforcement, all 26 had fake identification and fake Social Security cards. They were apparently on their way to the cherry orchards in Washington.

The major arrest created a serious condition for the Modoc County Jail, but Sheriff Mark Gentry said his entire staff did an excellent job with the overflow and things worked smoothly. He credited Chief Deputy Mary Crutcher, who was called in and translated as the immigrants were processed through in assembly-line fashion.

The 26 immigrants were from various cities in Mexico and the Immigration Service responded Tuesday picking them up about 1 a.m. and transported them back to Mexico.

No fireworks on public lands

Northeast California fire officials are reminding area residents and visitors to be careful with fire and fireworks when they celebrate Independence Day.

"Conditions are very dry. People need to be extremely careful when camping, driving in the back country and cutting fire wood," said Jim Hedges, a co-manager of the Susanville Interagency Fire Center.

Hedges stressed that possession and use of all fireworks, including those approved by the State of California and sold at fireworks stands, are illegal in national forests, national parks and on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. County and city governments have various regulations regarding fireworks, and holiday revelers should be familiar with local laws before purchasing or using the devices.

Those planning camping trips should also follow basic fire safety tips:

Keep campfires small, and completely extinguish them before leaving camp. The best method is to douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse again, making sure that all ashes are cold to the touch.

Charcoal should be soaked in water after use.

Smokers should light up only in areas cleared of all flammable debris. Cigarette butts should never be thrown from vehicle windows.

Those exploring the forests and back country in vehicles must stay on established roads and trails, and avoid driving over dry brush and grass that could be ignited by hot exhaust systems.

Firewood cutters should operate chainsaws only in the cool morning hours and keep a shovel and fire extinguisher nearby. Chainsaws must be equipped with spark arresters.

Information on current fire dangers is available from any office of the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, or CAL FIRE. Local fire departments also have information on fire dangers and restrictions, and local fireworks regulations.

County BOS goes live

County residents can now listen to Modoc County Board of Supervisors meetings at their convenience by visiting the County's website, www.modoccounty.us. The new system is powered by San Francisco-based Granicus, Inc., the premier provider of government webcasting and public meeting management solutions to nearly 400 government agencies spanning 38 states across the nation.

"The County Board of Supervisors has made open and transparent government a priority. We have worked hard to increase public involvement in government," said County Supervisor Mike Dunn. "Making County Board meetings available on the internet, at our citizens' convenience, is an example of these ongoing efforts. I believe this will prove helpful, particularly for outlying areas in the County, such as New Pine Creek, Newell, Adin, Lookout and Surprise Valley to help keep them in touch with what their County government is doing."

To access a County Board meeting on the internet:
1) Visit www.modoccounty.us
2) Click on BOS Meeting Audio, which is under District Supervisors on the left bar.
3) Choose a live meeting that is currently in progress or an archived meeting by clicking on the audio, agenda or minutes link.

County Board meetings are generally held on the first four Tuesdays of the month beginning at 9:00 a.m. Meetings will be available live and will be archived later in the day. The archived meetings are searchable by topic or agenda item.

The Modoc County Planning Commission will be available on the internet in the same format as the Board of Supervisors in the near future.

Appellate Court agrees with DA in drug case

In a recent ruling from the Third District Court of Appeal, the Modoc County Superior Court has been ordered to sentence Richard Masotti on a charge of a violation of section 11358 of the Health and Safety Code of the State of California (Cultivation of Marijuana). The Defendant had previously been convicted by a jury of this charge but Mr. Masotti filed a Motion for a New Trail, and the Motion was granted by Judge Dier.

District Attorney Woolverton immediately filed an appeal, resulting in the appellate court's decision to remand the matter back to the Superior Court for sentencing. The appellant court based their decision on their belief that there was sufficient evidence to support the Defendant's cultivation conviction, and that the trial court abused its discretion in granting a new trial.

The People contended in their argument to the Court of Appeal that the trial court did not have jurisdiction to grant the motion on the basis of instructional error; that there was no instructional error in the jury instructions regarding medicinal marijuana; and that there was sufficient evidence to support a conviction. The Court of Appeal agreed with the People that the trial court did not have jurisdiction to grant a new trial for instructional error. The appellate court went on to state that the "court also erred in finding insufficient evidence for the conviction." At this time the matter is pending a date for sentencing in the Modoc County Superior Court.

RCD receives watershed grant

The Central Modoc Resource Conservation District has been awarded a $192,131 grant from the California Department of Conservation to protect and enhance the Upper Pit River watershed.
The grant was one of 43 issued by the DOC, which ranged from a high of $343,629 for the Pasadena-based Arroyo Seco Foundation to $23,150 to the Sacramento River Conservation Area Forum.

The grants will enable the recipients to hire watershed coordinators for a three-year period. Generally, watershed coordinators help assess local watersheds – the area drained by a river or river system – and bring together local government, landowners, and community groups through outreach, education and partnerships in order to improve the health the watersheds.

DOC received 86 applications totaling more than $19 million in the latest round of grant funding. The proposals were competitively scored by an independent committee comprise of individuals from agencies and organizations outside of DOC. The funds used for the watershed coordinator grants program came from Proposition 50 – the Water Security, Clean Drinking Water, Coastal and Beach Protection Act of 2002.

Obituaries:


Joe Leventon Potter

Joe Potter was born on December 31, 1911 to John James and Minnie May (Adams) Potter, their tenth of twelve children, in Lookout, California. He completed his journey through life on June 12, 2008, only 1,000 feet from where he was born and reared in Lookout.

Joe attended the local schools and graduated from Bieber High School with the class of 1930. Having been raised in the lumber industry with his father's business of Potter Lumber Company (established in 1906 at Egg Lake, then moved to Lookout in 1921), it was Joe's lifestyle all his working years. After the death of his father, Joe and his brothers continued the business of logging and making lumber until they closed the mill in 1966.

Joe and Lois Kennedy were married in Reno, Nevada on July 1, 1939 and were together until her passing on October 1, 1993. They celebrated 54 years together and raised their three children in Lookout; son Gjon, deceased; daughter Jeannine and son Rick.

The only two homes Joe and Lois lived in were both houses Joe had built. The first with his father John and the second from "trees he had logged, lumber he had cut, and boards he had nailed together." He moved his family into that house in September of 1956.

Traveling was another pleasure of Joe's. He and Lois had the fun of visiting Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, England, Ireland, Holland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, many trips around the United States and Canada and five trips to Alaska to see his son Rick.

Not ready to retire when the mill closed, Joe continued to work at Edgerton Lumber Co. in Adin and Big Valley Lumber in Bieber.

After a semi-retirement he was caretaker and groundskeeper for the Lookout Park and Cemetery for a number of years. Mr. Potter was a member of the Alturas Elks Lodge 1756 for over 35 years.
Joe was able to stay at home with very limited health problems until his passing, with the gentle and loving care of his grandson Roger.

He is leaving behind his daughter Jeannine Primorac of Alturas; son Rick and wife Vicki of Alaska; grandsons Roger Primorac of Alturas/Lookout and Kevin Primorac and wife Adele of Evergreen, Colorado, and former son-in-law Dennis Primorac of Alturas; brother Forrest Potter and sister Fay Zimmerman in Klamath Falls, OR; nieces Hope Yeager and Fern Morse of Lookout and their families and great-grandchildren Amanda, Jeannine, Chris and Katarina.

There were no strangers in Joe's life, only friends he hadn't met yet. He always could share a memory or tell a story about a friend or a trip he had made.

Joe was a very respected gentleman who will be missed by his family and many friends.

We wish him gently on for his next adventure with love and good wishes. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. today, June 19 at the Lookout Cemetery. Fellow Elks members will officiate. Kerr Mortuary is caring for arrangements.

Clinton Burl Seal

Clinton Burl Seal, 48, born December 5, 1959 in Cedarville, CA to Arthada Higgs of Alturas and Wallace Seal, died while resting at his home in Roseburg, Oregon on June 9, 2008. His passing is attributed to complications due to Diabetes.

Clinton will be remembered as a fun guy with a great sense of humor and one who could find humor in almost anything. His infectious laugh and sparkling eyes spread this joy to those around him. He loved to "put one over" on someone just to get a laugh, but he was kindhearted with his jokes. As an employee, he was proud of the fact that he worked faster and harder to get a job done than those around him. Whatever he did, he gave it his all.

The bulk of his life was spent in Modoc. He loved to go fishing and camping and was good at sports; football and track being his favorites. He loved the earth, sun and moon and appreciated the beauty of wildlife.

For a brief time, he lived in Hamilton City during high school, but preferred living in Modoc and returned to graduate from Modoc High School with his friends in 1977. He attended Shasta Junior College in Redding for a year, then went to work as a kiln operator for Holly Sugar in Hamilton City for about five years. He returned to Alturas in 1980 and worked as a trucker driver for Fitch Sand and Gravel, then at Hog Ranch Mine as a heavy equipment operator. His first marriage in 1981 to Cynthia Kimbrel from New Pine Creek, ended in divorce five years later. Their two sons were born in Alturas. Clinton moved to Bakersfield in the late 1990s for a specific job he liked. He was never without work and "worked on small jobs in between bigger jobs," recalls his mother. It was while he was in Bakersfield that he was diagnosed with Diabetes. He was employed by a company that installed conveyor belts in WalMart stores, requiring him to travel extensively in the mid-western states. He relocated to Roseburg, OR in 2003, where he worked in a lumber saw mill. He and Michele Davis of Southern California, were married in the summer of 2007, cementing their five-year relationship and making their home in Roseburg. Clinton was a loving, giving, caring person to family and friends. He leaves to mourn his passing his wife Michele Seal of Roseburg, OR, his two sons, Clinton James "C.J." and wife Dakota Seal of Roseburg, OR and Phillip Quin and wife Alyshia Seal and two grandchildren Josiah and Ciera of Portland, OR; his parents Arthada and Joe "Pops" Higgs of Alturas; three brothers and five sisters: Marsha and Walter Chaney, Redding, CA; Steven Buring, Redding; Joann Buring and Michael Henderson, Chico; Mark Buring, Turlock; Shyrell and Tony Ramirez, Chico; Donna and Dan Araiza, Redding; Layth and Janean Seal of Graham, WA; Carrie Hill of Gray, Maine; 19 nieces and nephews: Angela, Leon, Ron, Lamont, Cathy, Sandy, April, Amanda, Bradford, T.J., Randy, Jacquelin, Summer, John, Marie, Carrie, Jessica, Darek, Kasandra; 22 great nieces and nephews; two uncles and aunts Willard and Joy St. John, Napa, CA; Arthur and Ruth S. John, Alturas, CA. He will be sorely missed.

He was preceded by his grandparents Willis and Lily (Patrick) St. John and Beauford and Mary Seal; his big brother Jack Frances Buring in 1960; niece Christine, aunt Phyllis and uncle Ira St. John; sister Brenda Seal of Maine, aunt Lily Violet Locy and aunt Loretta St. John.

Services are under the direction of Kerr Mortuary, Alturas with visitation on Friday, June 20 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. A celebration of his life will take place at the Kerr Chapel at 11 a.m. June 20, with graveside to follow at Alturas Cemetery. A reception and time of fellowship will follow at Christian Life Assembly on West B Street in Alturas. Donations in Clinton's memory may be directed to help others through the American Diabetes Foundation or toward Diabetes research.

Freda Clark

Freda K. Clark, 82, passed away at her home in Adin, CA on May 10, 2008. Graveside services were held May 13, 2008 at the Adin Cemetery, Adin. Bishop Perry Clark of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints officiated.

Born Freda Smith on March 23, 1926 in McCammon, ID, Freda married Howard Clark on December 30, 1941 in Carson City, NV. She has lived in Modoc County for 80 years.

Freda was a homemaker and loved reading and crossword puzzles.

She is survived by husband Howard Clark of Adin; children Janice Weigand of Chico, Donna Woolery of Dairy, OR, Perry Clark and Sam of Adin, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Freda was preceded in death by her sons in-law Dale Weigand and George Woolery and her grandson Ryan Clark. Donations can be made to the Intermountain Hospice Program. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Leanna Regine Hawkins

Leanna Regine Hawkins, 67, of Bieber, CA passed away with her family by her side at Mercy Medical Center, Redding, CA on June 13, 2008, after a long illness.

Leanna is survived by her husband, Delmer, daughter and son-in-law Cindy and Robin Harbert; son and daughter-n-law Russ and Helen Hawkins, all of Bieber; sister, Carla Conner of Adin and her seven grandchildren who were the highlight of her life: Wyatt and Luena Harbert, Kolten, Kelsey and Hunter Hawkins, Ross and Chad Hawkins. She was preceded in death by her son, Wade Hawkins.
Leanna was born in Susanville, California on October 3, 1940 to Nelmer & Luena Spalding. She moved to Dixie Valley in 1948 and then spent the remainder of her life in Bieber. Delmer and Leanna started the Del Logging business where she was the bookkeeper until she retired. She was always very active in the community. Grannie Annie was best known for her love of cooking and for her dedication to her grandchildren. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to the Big Valley Boosters Club. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 21 at 12:00 at the home of Robin and Cindy Harbert. The Rev. Jeff Bidwell will officiate. Lunch will be graciously provided by Bob and Stacey Watkins and friends. Condolences may be posted at www.mem.com. Hillside Cemetery, Nubieber will be the final resting place. McDonald's Chapel Burney is caring for arrangements.

JoAnn Greenwade

JoAnn Theresa Greenwade of Cedarville, passed away in Cedarville on June 12, 2008 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

JoAnn was born on May 5, 1937, in Upper Lake, CA. She grew up in Middletown, CA, working at the resorts on Cobb Mountain during her youth. After marrying, she moved to Napa, starting a family there before purchasing their home in Vallejo. After working in retail clothing for many years, JoAnn returned to her hometown years later and became a long-time employee at Hardester's Corner Store. Upon her retirement, she settled in Cedarville where she pursued her passion for sewing by joining the local quilt guild. Wherever she lived, she was beloved by many people.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Greenwade in 2000. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Lynn and Jim Babcock of Santa Rosa, CA; Rick and Christy Greenwade of Darby, MT; Cindy and Jim Wilson of Lucerne, CA and Cori and Travis Herbert of Vacaville, CA.; brother Ray Puser, Ukiah, CA and sister Lorna Fiori, Santa Rosa, CA and JoAnn's many (12) grandchildren and four great-grandchildren will miss her dearly. She is also survived by her long-time companion and love, Leland Miller of Cedarville, CA.

A visitation was held at Kerr Mortuary in Alturas, CA on Tuesday evening, June 17. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. James Church in Cedarville on June 18 at 11 a.m. Interment followed at the Cedarville Cemetery.

Donations in JoAnn's memory may be made to the Surprise Valley Hospital.

Marion (Brown) Wimer Ladewig

Marion Wimer Ladewig, 82, of Lake City, CA, passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at Surprise Valley Hospital, Cedarville. Marion was born in Mountain view, CA on March 18, 1926, to Ethel Aileen (White) and Arthur William Brown. She spent her early childhood in Mountain View and Pacific Grove, CA. Upon the death of her mother, Marion, age 10, traveled by train to Singlehouse, PA to live with relatives. At age 12, she was sent to Lake City to live with relatives. She attended local schools until she married Lloyd Wimer in 1942. They divorced in 1958 and Marion later married George Ladewig, a retired rancher from Weed in 1960. Marion joined Bank of America as a teller at the Red Bluff branch. In 1970, she was promoted to Assistant Cashier at the Sacramento regional office which required her to travel all over northern California, filling vacant positions. In 1976, Marion was named Loan Officer at the Orland branch. She also taught various banking classes at this position. In 1977, she was promoted to manager of Bank of America's Markleeville branch. Affectionately called "Sammie" by her co-workers and banking friends, Marion retired in 1984. She and her ailing husband George moved to Lake City to care for Lloyd Wimer, who also was in poor health. Marion cared for both men until their deaths in 1985.

Marion loved working in her flower and vegetable gardens which she shared with friends and family. She also loved reading and writing and listening to Big Band music. She is survived by her daughter Deanna Wimer of Lake City, CA; son Garen and wife Terry Wimer of Corning; son Lamond Wimer, Lake City; cousins Lloyd and wife Gloria Abbott, Red Bluff; Charles "Dale" and wife Sandy Abbott, Mahwah, NJ; Bruce and wife Rose Abbott of Worthington, OH; Berna Abbott of Inchelium, WA; niece Patricia Wimer Hollenbeck, Tacoma, WA; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband Lloyd Wimer; husband George Ladewig, sister Elaine Atkinson MacMillian, sister Marjorie Cramton and granddaughter Genette Wimer Backovich.
Marion may have been short in stature, but she was mighty in love and spirit and will be greatly missed. A memorial service will be held in September. Details will be published closer to the date.

Services for Laura M. McKee

Services for Laura Marie McKee of Alturas will be held at Christian Life Assembly Church in Alturas, at 11 a.m. on June 21, 2008, with a fellowship meal to follow the services.
Laura Marie McKee of Alturas, born October 5, 1953 at Herick Hospital in Berkeley, CA, passed away on May 24, 2008 in Reno, NV.

Laura was a beloved wife and mother. She is survived by parents Harvey and Edna Allen of Carson City, NV; husband Floyd (Todd) McKee of Alturas, CA; son Ben Potap of Alturas, CA; stepchildren Cambria Amaker and Travis McKee; siblings Liz Gaiser of Chinese Camp, CA; Bill Allen, Valley Springs, CA and Lenette "Net" McGilvray of Stockton; grandchildren Baret Amaker, Logan and Kaylee McKee and Chantel and Tytus Potap. She will be missed greatly.

Phyllis Clark

Phyllis Marie (Wells) Clark, a lifelong resident of Alturas, passed away April 12, 2008 of pneumonia in Alturas, CA. Dr. Ben Zandstra will hold graveside memorial services at 2 p.m. Friday, June 27, 2008 at the Alturas Cemetery.

Phyllis Wells was born on January 1, 1927 in Alturas, CA on the Wells Ranch which is now the Canyon Creek Mackey Ranch. Her grandmother's maiden name was Williams and she also had relatives at Blacks Canyon. Phyllis wrote her account of "Growing up on Canyon Creek" which is documented in the Modoc County Historical Society Journal #2. While still in high school, she landed her first job during World War II at the "Fountain," where the Alturas Fire Department stands today. She later worked intermittently as a bookkeeper at Alturas Tire Shop. In the 1960s she worked for Ed Miley when Alturas first had Cable T.V. She then worked for Modoc Medical Center's business office for five years and later for Surprise Valley Electrification Corporation, from which she retired in 1988.

Her husband Criss Clark, whom she married in Reno, NV on January 6, 1946, passed away in December 21, 2005 after almost 60 years of marriage. Phyllis enjoyed fishing, camping, sewing, doing beadwork and writing. She kept her family's history alive with her writings passed on to her children.

She is survived by her daughter Marie White of Alturas, CA; her son Duane and wife Janet Clark of Billings, MT; brother Earl and wife Martha Frances Wells of Vancouver, WA, grandson Jerry and wife Gin Atkison of Alturas and their children Cody and Crisstopher; grandson Chris and wife Shellie Stiles of Alturas and their children Candice, Stephanie, Halie, Harmonie and Christian; granddaughter Stacey and husband James Jennings of Billings, MT and their children Kimmie, Patrick and James; Kimmie's daughter (Phyllis' great-great granddaughter) Shyla; granddaughter Holly and husband Toby McPhee of Billings, MT and their children Taylor and Tobin McPhee and Tiffany Clark; granddaughter Pennie Robinson and her children Kyla and Christina of Carrollton, TX. She had five grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband Criss Clark of Alturas and brothers Bill, Sandy and Wayne Wells.

Sports

First motocross day a success

The first practice day on the new Modoc motocross track was termed as excellent by local organizers and those 55 riders who got the chance to put the track through its paces Saturday.

In addition to the riders, at least 150 spectactors came to view the opening event.
The first Modoc Motorsports Association motocross race in Modoc will be July 11,12 and 13 at the new Cedarville Fairgrounds Track will be a part of two series races out of the Medford and Keno, Oregon areas. Riders who come to this race will earn points in those series.

Local riders have been competing in the Oregon series for the past couple of years and were anxious to get a race in Alturas. Well over 150 riders are expected for the event.

For the races, July 11 will be a practice day with races on July 12,13. The Pro-am event will have a $1,000 payout each day.

MMA is raffling a 2007 Yamaha Rhino 660 as the top prize to help fund the races. Second prize will be the ATV trailer and third prize is $250 cash.
The winning ticket will be drawn on July 13. Tickets are available at Modoc County Title, Pioneer Auto Body, Alturas Tire, Les Schwab Tire, True Value, and Main Street Coffee.

Super Bull all set for June 28 ride

The bulls are hot and the rides reaady for the Super Bull at the Modoc District Fairgrounds Arena in Cedarville on Saturday, June 28.

Comeptition begins at 6:00 p.m. building to the climactic "Short Go" where the night's top six bull riders compete for a grand prize, silver buckle and $2,000 added purse.

This year's rodeo is dedicated to long-time Bull Committee volunteer Dave Boneck who recently passed away.

Super Bull tickets are $12 if purchased at one of many local outlets including Page's Market, Napa Auto Parts, Cedarville Grocery, and Western Irrigation in Cedarville, at Modoc Auto Parts, L&B Ranch Supply, Seab's True Value, and Jay's Clothing in Alturas, or at Jack's General Store in Eagleville. Those from out of the area may also order pre-sale tickets by calling (530) 279-6383.
Tickets are $15 at the gate. Children 7 and under enter free with an adult.
The Super Bull will open with Alturas' Joann White singing "The National Anthem" followed by fifteen local competitors from ages 4 through 8 out to fulfill their dreams of becoming rodeo stars in the night's "Mutton Busting" competition.

The fairground gates open at 5:00 p.m. so come early and come hungry. Volunteers from the Surprise Valley Chamber of Commerce will be grilling burgers and serving up nachos, freshly-spun cotton candy, and a wide assortment of snack items at the concession stand near the arena.
Children who'd like to compete in the mutton busting competition should register by calling 279-6383.

Modoc hosts volleyball camp

Modoc High School is hosting a volleyball camp June 23-26 at the Griswold Gym, open to incoming and current high school female participants.

The Camp fee is $30 and is payable to Modoc High Volleyball. The camp will be instructed by MHS head volleyball coach Harold Montague and junior varsity coach Wendi Lowrey. The camp will run 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. each evening.

There will be group and individual instruction in serving, setting, blocking, passing, spiking, and team strategies. Contact MHS for more information.

June 26, 2008

News

Lightning fires small on Modoc

The first big lightning storm of the season hit the Modoc National Forest on Sat. North Eastern California received more than 2000 strikes and 16 vegetation fires resulted.

A major fire called the Popcorn fire has charred about 2,800 acres in the Little Valley area near Pitville and local crews have been asssigned.

Each was a single tree fire and total acreage for all the fires combined was about two acres. The lightning was accompanied by rain and crews were able to get to them quickly which helped keep the fires small.

The largest number of fires, eight, were in the Big Valley area and seven on the Devils Garden and one in the Warner Mountains. More lightning storms are expected later in the week.

In the mean time, Forest personnel and equipment are working on fires across the west. The Modoc Hot Shots, the Lost River Type 2 crew, three engines, and 13 additional individuals are working to help fire suppression efforts in California and New Mexico. All crews remaining on the Forest are on high alert and prepared for initial attack on any new fire starts.

This is the beginning of a potentially intense fire season. Please maintain the spark arresters on your chainsaws, ATVs and other combustion engines. Remember to put your campfires dead out before you leave your campsite.

Campfire permits are required and can be obtained free of charge at all Forest and BLM offices and at Cal Fire. Before you work in the Forest, remember to call the Fire Danger Hotline at (530) 233-8819.

Budget cuts hit MMC, SVH

The first wave of budget cuts hits California and Modoc Monday, when the state begins a freeze of Medi-Cal reimbursements to health care providers, ending July 7.

Rural hospitals throughout the state are joining a coalition in an effort to wake up the Governor and state legislators to their serious financial conditions.

On Tuesday, 38 rural hospital administrators, including Modoc Medical Center's Jim Sato, Surprise Valley Health Care District's Wanda Grove, Mayer Memorial's Katharine Ann Campbell, and Trinity's Claire Kuczkowski, signed a full page ad in the Sacramento Bee from the California Hospital Association aimed at the Governor and state legislature.

That advertisement pointed out that the rural hospitals provide "the only health care services in their regions and that the lifeline to these critical health care services is now under serious threat as a result of the 10 percent budget cut to Medi-Cal scheduled to take effect July 1," the letter states. "The Medi-Cal cuts are especially devastating to the rural hospitals (like Modoc and Surprise Valley) that operate the only skilled nursing facilities in the area. Nearly 100 percent of long-term patients are Medi-Cal beneficiaries. If services have to be terminated as a result of the cuts, these patients and their families will be irreparably harmed."

Sato figures the cuts and changes to Medi-Cal by the state could cost MMC about $1.1 million in additional losses - enough to make the continued operation of the facility questionable. Sato has stated the Medi-Cal cuts could serve to wipe out any financial gains the hospital is poised to make in the near future.

"In California, the rural health care system is very fragile," the advertisement states. "When hospital and related services are lost, they are not lost just to Medi-Cal patients, but to all patients—every man, woman and child - despite their insurance coverage ... The 10 percent Medi-Cal payment cuts must be reversed or many communities will immediately face a public health crisis.

The delays will cause significant financial hardship, particularly to many smaller institutional providers, who still must pay their bills on time even if the state doesn't.

 "The impact of these cuts on small, rural health care providers and their patients is absolutely devastating," said Charles R. Guenther, CEO of Eastern Plumas Health Care District, which operates two small hospitals in Portola and Loyalton in Plumas County. "Our organization has already been through bankruptcy once due to low Medi-Cal reimbursement - we can't go there again. Like most other rural providers, we have no cash reserves and we owe $1.5 million in accounts payable. This two-week delay in Medi-Cal payments, combined with the 10 percent rate cut that takes effect on July 1, may well cause the collapse of a number of rural health care systems, leaving many rural communities without any health care services whatsoever".

"This is the worst funding challenge we've faced in 22 years," says Diane Cooper-Puckett, Executive Director of Center for Adult Day Health Care in Chico. "We have made a commitment to those we serve, expecting the state to honor its commitment to us. Our clients have few alternatives, so it's critical that we're here to help."

The delayed reimbursements are the first wave in a series of cuts that health care providers face this year that will threaten the foundation of California's health care system. On July 1, providers will see a 10 percent cut in reimbursements, despite the fact that California already ranks near the bottom of the nation in Medi-Cal rates. Doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, adult day health care providers, dentists, and clinics will all be cut, forcing many to end their participation in the underfunded Medi-Cal program or to stop providing services altogether.

Institutional health care providers will take another hit in the second half of July, when the State's Interim Payment Fund is predicted to run out of funds, effectively cutting off Medi-Cal payments to most institutional providers. This will place extreme financial stress on many of these providers, who already are struggling to obtain ‘bridge loans' from financial institutions to tide them over.

"The multiple freezes on Medi-Cal payments to adult day health care providers for services already delivered to frail elderly, disabled, and chronically ill adults hit hard," said Lydia Missaelides,

Executive Director of the California Association of Adult Day Services. "Add to that a 10% cut to provider reimbursement rates, escalating fuel and food costs, and a tightening credit market for loans, and small businesses that primarily serve Medi-Cal patients are on the road to disaster. Already, closures are starting to occur, and according to a confidential survey conducted by CAADS, 11 centers have indicated closure within 2 weeks and 5 more have indicated they are likely to close within four weeks unless they can secure the necessary loans in time." In August, other providers face a similar fate when the state is predicted to run out of cash. At that point, California's health care system will be officially in crisis.

In May, a coalition of health provider organizations filed a lawsuit against the State in Court claiming that the 10 percent Medi-Cal cuts passed by the Legislature were in violation of State law. The State removed the case to federal court, postponing any hearing of the merits of the case. A federal court in Los Angeles will decide whether to remand the case back to state court, at which point providers will seek to enjoin the 10 percent cuts before they take effect July 1.

Planning grant passed for new hospital

Congressman John Doolittle's office announced today that the House Labor, Health, and Human Services Act for fiscal 2009 has been passed. 

One of two issues passed for the 4th Congressional District is $300,000 requested by Modoc Frontier Healthcare Coalition to begin the planning stages for a new hospital in Alturas.

Having been approved by the Appropriations Committee, the bill now goes to the full house.  The U.S. Senate is considering similar legislation.  The Senate version is being asked to consider increasing that appropriation by $200,000 to bring the total to $500,000 through Senator Dianne Feinstein, and Senator Barbara Boxer's office. 

Once the two bills are reconciled into one bill, it will go to the President for his signature. Although he is retiring at the end of this session, Congressman Doolittle continues to serve the Modoc County voters who have supported him so well, and will continue that support. 

"This is really good news and it puts our project on the radar screen in Washington," said MFHC spokesman Jerry Smith. "This will allow us to begin the planning process in earnest and should move the project along very well. We are very pleased."

Maxwell will retire at end of year

Longtime Modoc County Chief Executive Officer Mike Maxwell has announced his retirement from the position.

While Maxwell did not place a firm date on his retirement, he told the Board of Supervisors it would be at the end of this year. The Board has retained a recruiting firm to begin the search for Maxwell's replacement.

Maxwell has said he will remain on board to help with a smooth transition to a new CEO. Maxwell has been instrumental in keeping the county financially solvent as well as involved in most of the major projects undertaken by Modoc in the last 20 or so years.

City, Perlite company in negotiations for mill siding use

The City of Alturas and Cornerstone Industrial Minerals Corporation out of Lakeview, Or. are in negotiations for the leased use of the siding at the Alturas Mill site.

According to Alturas Mayor John Dederick, the negotiations are very positive and he expects the deal to be wrapped up in the near future.

Basically, Cornerstone is seeking to haul Perlite from its Lakeview Tucker Hill mine to the Alturas Mill siding, where it will be loaded onto train cars and transported to Klamath Falls for further distribution throughout the world.

Cornerstone had used the Lakeview rail line to transport its Perlite for connection here, but a series of derailments has decreased that transportation reliability.

Dederick has been working with Cornerstone owner Mick Stanley. The city contacted Stanley when it discovered he may have been looking for an alternative transportation process.

The Perlite would be transported to the Alturas Mill site by truck, with the current plan to use the old access entrance to the mill, which is the road from State Route 299 just west of the Modoc Auction Yard into the Mill. There is also an approved truck route from SR 299 down Warner and Fourth Streets, but Dederick said the best plan would be the back road access.

He said the early projections are for about 3,000 truckloads per year amounting to about 100,000 tons of Perlite. The mineral would be of loaded in what's called a bagged system into a hopper at the siding and into the rail cars. According to Dederick the bagged system restricts the dust.

The City owns the rail siding and buildings on the mill property under this proposal. There will be quite a bit of retrofitting of the property to accommodate the new use, but Dederick doesn't see any real issues. The rail siding is currently being inspected, but appears to be in pretty good shape.
Dederick said one the project is up and running there would be between four and six jobs created.
Perlite is a natural occurring volcanic glass that contains two to five percent water and when subjected to heat it will expand to up to 20 times its original volume. The expansion is due to a change in the state of the water found within the structure of the rock. The physical properties of the lightweight expanded Perlite gives it unique commercial value for building construction, horticulture and industrial uses. It's used in lightweight acoustical and thermal insulation, plaster materials, insulating and lightweight concrete, horticulture, and as a filtering medium.

Secure schools money dropped

It appears the Secure Rural Schools Program was removed from the U.S. Congress Supplemental budget last week, putting those funds for road and schools into limbo again.

According to Modoc County Superintendent of School Gary Jones the issue will not be on the agenda before Congress breaks Friday for the July 4 recess.

"We're looking for second emergency supplemental in the second week of July, and that would be our next chance for Forest Reserve and MAA money moving right now," said Jones. "This has to get done by Sept. 30 or we lose the money for this year. None of us have forest reserves factored in for next year, and our best hope is the second emergency supplemental."

What was included in the current supplemental was funding for he Iraq war, the new Webb G.I. Bill and domestic funding for Katrina residuals as well as Midwest flood disaster funding. Jones figures there will have to be a second supplemental to handle the scope of the Midwest flood damage and that's where the secure schools funding could be attached.

The schools issue got past a first hurdle May 15 when it was approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee as a $400 million, one-year extension plan in the Emergency Supplemental Bill.
Senator Dianne Feinstein said she is committed to a multi-year solution to the funding issue, but this year the reality is probably a one-year fix.

In total, the Secure Schools funding amounts to about $1.3 million to Modoc Schools.
The county office and all districts in the county have not budgeted the Secure Schools as revenue this next year. The schools in the county remain largely able to avoid major layoffs for this year, but a continuing loss of those funds would impact severely in the next budget cycle.

Jones is confident that even with the impending budget cuts at the state and federal level, the county office and local school districts "have necessary reserves" to cover the short term.

He cautions, however, that school systems cannot sustain annual losses of this size without cuts to educational programs and services.

Fandango rolls out the fun for Independence Day weekend

Parade entries will be accepted until 5 p.m. Monday, June 30 for the annual Fourth of July weekend celebration in Alturas known as "Fandango Days." This year's parade theme is "Independence Day."

Events open Friday, July 4th with some new and several returning features for all ages, plus high school and family reunions. Fandango provides all the ingredients for great family fun.
The annual Fandango festivities and parade, sponsored by the Alturas Chamber of Commerce start Friday night and run through Saturday night, July 5 when the California Pines Property Owners Association sponsors the Fireworks show at dusk over California Pines Lake.

On Friday, July 4, the 51st annual Alturas Noon Rotary Fish Derby will open at Pine Creek reservoir for all children ages 12 years and under, providing their own fishing poles and bait. The annual event is dedicated to its founder, the late K.C. Tierney, who organized the first Rotary Fish Derby for Modoc kids in 1957. Beginning at 8 a.m., kids will cast their lines to start the two-hour competition with lunch and prizes to follow.

The grand opening of the Disc Golf Course will feature a Disc Golf Tournament Friday, July 4, 10 a.m. to noon at Warner Street Park, Eighth and Warner Streets, Alturas will be open to everyone, with prizes for individual and team categories. Entry is $5 individual or $20, teams. Prizes for best score and top three teams. Event sponsored by Modoc Parks and Recreation District.

Alturas' Desert Rose Casino opens a day full of activity for adults and kids starting at noon, with a barbecue for $5 for hamburgers or hotdogs, kids' games, plus a horseshoe tournament and DJ music on the lawn. (See display ad for details).

At 3:30 Friday, Modoc Parks and Recreation District will organize a GPS Treasure Hunt (geocache) July 4. Anyone with a hand held GPS is welcome to register for the hunt; $5 per team. Meet at the locomotive next to Veterans' Park and Modoc Museum for a brief explanation prior to the "Hunt" to start promptly at 4 p.m.

Fandango fun

Fandango 2008 events organized by the Alturas Chamber of Commerce start Friday evening, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. with a July 4th Street Dance on East Fifth Street, between Rite Aid and Plumas Bank. Live music by Big Sage.

Saturday, July 5 bicycle riders of any age can register at 8 a.m. at the park locomotive, for a ride around Modoc Wildlife Refuge. Register, $5 for kids, 13-19; one dollar for kids 12 and under; $10 for adults. The loop ride starts at 8:30 a.m. from the park.

At 11 a.m. Saturday, July 5, the Fandango Parade will head south down Alturas' Main Street, carrying the theme "Independence Day." Grand Marshal Marie Smith, long-time Director of Modoc Senior Citizens Center will be joined by this year's color guard, the local Boy Scouts, in leading the floats, equestrians, four-wheelers, classic and antique vehicles, novelty entries and more. Watch for Little and Junior Mr. and Miss Fandango, the new Modoc Beef Princess and some surprise entries.
Parade entries will be judged during the parade with ribbon awards given at the park at 1 p.m.

Immediately following the parade, the celebration continues at Veterans' Park. View the classic car show on the lawns of Rachel Dorris park behind the Modoc Museum then cross over to Veterans' Park for a barbecued meal cooked by the Alturas Fire Department this year, and the Alturas Lions Club beer booth will be available along with vendor booths of all kinds, a children's corner featuring contests, pony rides and more. The Alturas City and Rural Fire Department's will go for their second year water/hose competition, Cowpie Bingo returns with Mollie, Debbie and Mike Mason's special family cow with tickets on chances available on the spot. Hear live music, relax and catch up on visiting at the Veterans' Park in Alturas.

Fireworks over California Pines Lake start at dusk on July 5. The show draws a large crowd, dispersed over the Lodge lawns and around the lake for great viewing from any angle. The show is generously sponsored by the California Pines Property Owners Association. A tri-tip beef, hamburger, hot dog barbecue starts at 1 p.m. at Cal Pines Lodge July 5. From 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Evolution, a Top 40 rock' n roll band will play classic hits from the 60s, 70's, 80's and 90's to the smash hits of today.

Obtain Fandango Parade entry forms in this issue of the Modoc Record, at Seab's True Value, Main Street Coffee in Alturas or the Alturas Chamber of Commerce or visitwww.alturaschamber.org for information, vendor space and parade entry information. Parade entries will begin lining up at 9 a.m. July 5 at the corner of Eighth and Main Streets.

This year's volunteer Alturas Chamber of Commerce Board which has been working on Fandango this year, includes President Jim Cavasso; Vice President Jennifer Barcia; Treasurer Frieda DuBois; Secretary Rose Boulade; directors Terri Haralson, Heather Prevette, Val Flournoy, Valerie Lantz and Stephanie Northrup. Penny Cruse takes on the duties as parade coordinator once again.

Obituaries:

Patrick Geaney

Patrick Geaney, 58, passed away June 19, 2008 in Cedarville, CA.

Services for Pat will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2008 at 1 p.m. at the Surprise Valley Community Church, 405 Bonner St., Cedarville. Dr. Ben Zandstra will officiate. Refreshments will follow in the church Community Hall.

Pat was born to Margie (Spaulding) Cain and John Geaney on October 13, 1949, in Alturas, CA. He graduated from Modoc High School in 1968.

On September 18,1976 he married Lana Bullen and they had two children, John Lewis, born October 14, 1978 and Jason Levi, born April 29, 1982.

Pat spent his adult life working in the woods logging, planting trees, and building roads. In recent years he worked on ranches in Surprise Valley. His favorite pastime was fishing, drawing, painting and reading. Pat was an excellent artist and did many pictures in pencil and oil.

Pat is survived by his son and daughter-in-law John and Carmen Geaney, Cedarville, CA; son Jason Geaney, Cedarville; mother Margie Cain, Merrill, OR; step-father Lewis Cain, Cedarville; brother and sister-in law Jerry and Susan Geaney, Merrill, OR; brother and sister-in-law Chester and Donna Geaney, Klamath Falls, OR; two grandchildren, six nephews and two nieces

His father John and twin brother Mike preceded Pat in death.

Services for Phyllis Clark

Phyllis Marie (Wells) Clark, a lifelong resident of Alturas, passed away April 12, 2008 of pneumonia in Alturas, CA. Dr. Ben Zandstra will hold graveside memorial services at 2 p.m. Friday, June 27, 2008 at the Alturas Cemetery.

Phyllis Wells was born on January 1, 1927 in Alturas, CA.

She is survived by her daughter Marie White of Alturas, CA; her son Duane and wife Janet Clark of Billings, MT; brother Earl and wife Martha Frances Wells of Vancouver, WA, grandson Jerry and wife Gin Atkison of Alturas and their children Cody and Crisstopher; grandson Chris and wife Shellie Stiles of Alturas and their children Candice, Stephanie, Halie, Harmonie and Christian; granddaughter Stacey and husband James Jennings of Billings, MT and their children Kimmie, Patrick and James; Kimmie's daughter (Phyllis' great-great granddaughter) Shyla; granddaughter Holly and husband Toby McPhee of Billings, MT and their children Taylor and Tobin McPhee and Tiffany Clark; granddaughter Pennie Robinson and her children Kyla and Christina of Carrollton, TX. She had five grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband Criss Clark of Alturas (2005) and brothers Bill Sandy and Wayne Wells.

James "Jim" Johnston

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for James (Jim) W Johnston, who died on May 22, 2008 at his ranch in Big Valley, CA, after a brief illness following heart surgery. Services were held on Saturday, May 31, 2008 both in Redding and Hillside Cemetery, Nubieber, CA.

Survived by his wife of 40 years, Josefa Johnston and their precious daughter, Juli M. Johnston, and his beloved children, Mrs. Linda M. Tyson and Wendell L. Johnston and their families; his loving mother, Mrs. Alice (Dee) Cherrington, his sister, Mrs. Janet (Lee) Gilliland, step-siblings: Martin (Joy) Cherrington, Mrs. Patricia C.(Sam) D'Angelo, Stetson Gifford, Greg (Jan) Gifford and their loved mother, Mrs. Barbara Johnston, uncle Mr. Robert (Barbara) Johnston, aunt Mrs. Carrie Guttry.
Preceded in death by his father Walter L. Johnston, Dee Cherrington, aunt Virginia Turner, uncle Evan Guttry, grandmothers Leah Schott and Viola Johnston.

Born August 13, 1935, raised and educated in Redding, CA, he graduated with the Class of 1954 from Shasta High School where he was active in Future Farmers of America organization.

Owner of Triple J Boring and Excavating, Homestead Hay, and Big Valley Red Angus.
Donations may be made to the Big Valley Historical Museum; Lookout Grange No.415; Modoc Medical Center building fund.

Shirley B. Bauer

Shirley B. Bauer, 81, died on Thursday, June 11, 2008, in Alturas, CA. She was born on May 10, 1927, in Central Utah.

She is survived by Brent and Judi Bauer, of Susanville, CA, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Raymond and her daughter Penny Rea Ence.
A graveside service was held at 11 a.m. on June 21, at Diamond Crest Cemetery. The family has requested no flowers, but donations may be directed to the Alzheimer's Foundation.

Sports

It's Super Bull Saturday

Don't miss the 12th Annual Super Bull Rodeo at the Modoc District Fairgrounds Arena in Cedarville Saturday, June 28.

The event starts at 6:00 p.m. building to the climactic "Short Go" where the night's top six bull riders compete for a grand prize, silver buckle and $2,000 added purse.

Super Bull tickets are $12 if purchased at one of many local outlets including Page's Market, Napa Auto Parts, Cedarville Grocery, and Western Irrigation in Cedarville, at Modoc Auto Parts, L&B Ranch Supply, Seab's True Value, and Jay's Clothing in Alturas, or at Jack's General Store in Eagleville. Those from out of the area may also order pre-sale tickets by calling (530) 279-6383.

Tickets are $15 at the gate. Children seven and under enter free with an adult.

The Super Bull will open with Alturas' Joann White singing "The National Anthem" followed by fifteen local competitors from ages 4 through 8 out to fulfill their dreams of becoming rodeo stars in the night's "Mutton Busting" competition.

The fairground gates open at 5:00 p.m. Volunteers from the Surprise Valley Chamber of Commerce will be grilling burgers and serving up nachos, freshly-spun cotton candy, and a wide assortment of snack items at the concession stand near the arena.

As in past years, Ed and Darrel Hill of H & H Rodeo Company are staging the event. But the sponsoring Super Bull Committee, which meets throughout the year to plan this one exciting night, is comprised of hard-working volunteers from throughout Modoc County.

President Chuck Colas is joined on the committee by Vice President Jim Erquiaga, Secretary-Treasurer Brianna Brown, and Edie Asrow, Sharon Boneck, Penni Borghi, Ryan De Paul, Erin Erquiaga, Darrel and Jennifer Hill, Ed Hill, Rocky Lemonds, Rick and Diana Milton, and Heather Pratt.

Les Schwab Tires is sponsoring the prized silver belt buckle awarded to the Bronc Champion while Surprise Valley Auto Parts and Napa's Modoc Auto Parts of Alturas are teaming up to donate the top bull rider's buckle.

Committee members are selling raffle tickets for three cash prizes of $500, $300 and $200. Funds from the sale of 500 tickets at $10 each help underwrite the high cost of the event and provide annual scholarships awarded to graduating seniors who reside within Modoc County.

First MX race set July 11-13

The first Modoc Motorsports Association's inaugural motocross race will be July 11,12 and 13 at the new Cedarville Fairgrounds Track and will be a part of two series races out of the Medford and Keno, Oregon areas.

Riders who come to this race will earn points in those series. Local riders have been competing in the Oregon series for the past couple of years and were anxious to get a race in Alturas. MMA organizers expect more than 150 riders for the event.

For the races, July 11 will be a practice day with races on July 12,13. The Pro-am event will have a $1,000 payout each day.

MMA is raffling a 2007 Yamaha Rhino 660 as the top prize to help fund the races. Second prize will be the ATV trailer and third prize is $250 cash.

The winning ticket will be drawn on July 13. Tickets are available at Modoc County Title, Pioneer Auto Body, Alturas Tire, Les Schwab Tire, True Value, and Main Street Coffee.

The newly formed MMA has about 70 members and is open and encouraging more members to join and help with the inaugural race. The organization needs volunteers on race day.

Masten Ramsey Memorial Stockhorse Jubilee expands again

Northeastern California's Premier Ranch Cowboy Event is scheduled in 2008 for July 18, 19 and 20. Entry deadline is July 7. Top hands from four states will converge on this little California community for honors as Champions. Over the last 24 years this show has become one of the most popular traditional cowboy events in the North West. It has been recognized for its quality of horses and large payoffs along with some good old-fashioned Modoc County hospitality. The main benefactors of this event are Modoc Youth programs and the Alturas Rural Fire Department.

The Masten Ramsey Memorial has changed the 2008 format. The 2008 Versatility Show on Friday will start at 1:00 p.m. (last year the event started at 6:00 p.m.)

The Western Equitation has been eliminated from the event and the new schedule includes a trail course competition making the event compatible with a true versatility show consisting of Western Pleasure, Reining, and Trail.

A Cutting competition has been added to the Friday night's schedule which includes a Two and Under class, a Non-Pro and Open class. Standard NCHA rules apply and the competition starts at 6:00 p.m.
Saturday's schedule has been changed as well. The Triple Crown Snaffle Bit and the Three and Under Snaffle Bit have been eliminated. Saturday's events begin with the Working cow Horse scheduled to start at 7:00 a.m.

The Junior Team Penning and Women's Team Penning have been dropped from the schedule. However, the Junior and Women competitors are more than welcome to join in the Open Team Penning Competition following the Team Penning Calcutta which will once again start at 6:00 p.m. Directly following the Team Penning there will be a dance with music by Harry Boulade of Golden Rose Productions. The Alturas Elks Lodge will be providing food and beverages at the event on Saturday and Sunday.

Stick Horse Rodeo and Dummy Roping will be hosted by the Repin' for the Lord Ministries on Saturday afternoon directly following the Ranch Horse Class.

Sunday's schedule remains unchanged with the Team Sorting starting at 8:00 a.m. The weekend's main event of course is the premier Three Person Event. The schedule of events is provided below.

As always, we would like to thank our gracious sponsors and volunteers for their unselfish contributions to the success of the Masten Ramsey Memorial Stock Horse Jubilee. Anyone interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteer or if you have any questions, please call Byron Gibbons at (530) 640-0699 or John McQuarrie at (530) 233-3420. Visit our website at www.mastenreamsey.org.
2008 Masten Ramsey Schedule of Events

Friday, July 18
1:00 p.m. - Versatility Show
6:00 p.m. - Cutting Horse Classes

Saturday, July 19
7:00 a.m. - Working Cow Horse
Immediately following - Snaffle Bit (five and under), Bridle (two rein allowed), Junior Bridle (16 and under), Ranch Horse Class Calcutta, and Ranch Horse Class
6:00 p.m. - Team Penning Calcutta and Open Team Penning
8:00 p.m. - Dance

Sunday, July 20
8:00 a.m. - Team Sorting

Immediately following - Cow Mugging, Three Person Team Event (approximately noon), Four Person Limited Branding, and Youth Branding

Rotary Fish Derby for kids July 4 at Pine Creek Reservoir

The 51st annual Alturas Noon Rotary Fish Derby will be held at Pine Creek reservoir on Friday, July 4. All children ages 12 years and under are eligible to participate, using their own fishing poles and bait. The annual event is dedicated to its founder, the late K.C. Tierney, who organized the first Rotary Fish Derby for Modoc kids in 1957.

Beginning at 8 a.m., kids will cast their lines to start the two-hour competition. At 10 a.m. lines must be pulled from the water, officially ending the tournament. Rotary cooks Fritz Barclay and Penny Cruse will prepare lunch. Club President Tim Burke and members Elaine Carrillo, Bob Brooks and Leta Bethel will serve hot dogs and drinks to children, parents and grandparents, while the officials Bobby Ray, Pam Couch and Don Crum finish weighing and measuring the catch. Emcee Bob Savage will present six prizes in all- for first fish caught by a boy and girl; biggest fish caught by a boy and girl; and most fish or first to limit out by a boy and girl.

Although every eligible participant will receive one ticket for special drawing, only one lucky boy and one happy girl will go home with a brand-new bike. Alturas Rotarians and the following local merchants sponsored prizes for the event: Seab and Karen McDonald of Seab's True Value; Ron Prevette of Sports Hut and George and Linda Wistos of The Belligerent Duck.

July 3, 2008

News

Modoc fire resources thin for holiday

Modoc County is left with pretty thin fire response resources this Fourth of July, as many units have been dispatched to assist in the major fires burning throughout the state.

Last Friday, the U.S. Forest Service called a fire resource meeting with all area agencies and volunteer units to explain the situation.

According to Modoc National Forest Information Officer, Laura Williams, the basic message was that if a major fire breaks out, the local volunteer departments would need to be ready to respond quickly. Some of those volunteer departments, including the Alturas Rural and Alturas Casino have had crews working on fires out-of-county now.

So far, Modoc has escaped the dry lightning major fires plaguing some of the north state. On Monday, lightning started two fires in the Big Valley area, but aggressive response by the Forest Service crews kept both of those small, one under two acres and one under one-half acre. Williams said the Forest is attacking any fire quickly and aggressively.

The area has been under a heavy smoke cover for the past week, with most of that smoke coming from the Corral Fire, which is about 12 miles northwest of Eagle Lake's north shore near Upper Gooch Valley. As of Tuesday, the fire had burned about 15,000 acres of commercial timber and rangeland and was about 10 percent contained. There is no threat to Eagle Lake communities.
Firefighters completed a fire line around the Peterson Complex fires near Fall River, containing them to 7,824 acres.

Fire restrictions are now in effect and all burning permits have been suspended in Lassen and Modoc Counties and in the Lake Almanor Basin.

According to Williams, 35 people attended the fire meeting at the Forest Supervisor's office on June 26. Fire people from Modoc NF, CalFire, BLM and 16 Volunteer Fire Departments attended. Three of the Modoc Board of Supervisors were also in attendance: Dave Bradshaw, Mike Dunn, and Patricia Cantrall.

Messages discussed at the meeting included all are on notice that initial attack will need to be handled by the local crews without expectation of help from outside the area. Ways to improve public information were discussed. Fire information will be posted by Monday afternoons at the post offices in Alturas, Cedarville, Likely, Tulelake and Adin. These will also be posted on bulletins boards at grocery stores and gas stations in Alturas.

Williams reports that fewer than 45 lightning strikes have hit the ground in northeast California in the last week. These have resulted in four fires on the Modoc. The Hunter Fire on Hunter Ridge was contained at two acres. The Hopkins Fire north of Adin was contained at one-half acre. Three other fires that did not get named were contained at under one-half acre.

The Forest now has nine engines here, one Type 2 (medium) helicopter, and one Type 2 hand crew. The Forest usually has 10 engines staff on Forest.

"We have two engines gone to fires off forest and we've staffed a hold-over engine for a total of nine engines," said Williams. BLM has one of two engines available at West Valley and two engines in Cedarville.

New twists in MMC options, future

With a near fatal state budget cut looming, the hospital district vote not coming until March, and the hospital continuing to lose money, more options were put on the table at Tuesday's Modoc County Board of Supervisors meeting.

The first option was to formally invite Blackhawk Healthcare LLC, out of Austin, Texas, to come to Modoc and tour the hospital. Blackhawk had contacted the county about a possible operation, management or lease contract to takeover MMC.

The company owns two rural hospitals, one in Rockdale, Texas and another in Mangum, Okla., which it has turned around. It is committed to rural medical care and was founded in 2003.

Modoc County Chief Administrative Officer Mike Maxwell said the Board ordered staff to contact the company and invite them to Modoc. He said things are very much in the preliminary stages, but the Board feels Blackhawk could be a viable option.

Secondly, the Board wants staff to investigate the possibility of putting a hospital special tax measure on the November ballot to help fund the hospital for a short time. That issue will come back to the Board on July 15. Maxwell said the actual boundaries of what that vote would cover will be determined over the next two weeks. That measure would have to be approved by a two-thirds majority.

The Board is concerned that the option of the Save Our Hospital committee placing the formation and funding of a hospital district on the March 2009 ballot could be too late. SOH obtained a board-requested legal opinion Monday saying their effort was in fact legal. They will take the formation of the district through the Local Agency Formation Commission.

"Right now we are looking at all options to keep the hospital open," said Maxwell. "If the state goes ahead with the 10 percent cut in Medi-Cal payments, it's going to hurt. We're trying to get on top of things and come up with a set of alternatives."MMC Interim CEO Jim Sato had requested the Board direct staff on what to do if the state goes ahead with the Medi-Cal cuts. Those cuts are slated to start July 1.

"Staff has concluded that the State of California's proposed cut of $1.1 million per year in Medi-Cal payments will be fiscally detrimental to MMC," he said. "Further plans of action should be developed as contingencies."

Sato and Maxwell figure the hospital's moving in the right direction, with most areas showing financial improvement, but the state cuts could erase any gains, even if the hospital obtains its Critical Access Hospital designation in the next few months.

As of now, Sato is projecting a $1.5 million loss in the fiscal year ending June, 2009. That's a marked improvement to a loss of $2.8 million in fiscal year 2007 and an estimated loss of $2.5 million for the year just ended June 30, 2008.

"If the state goes ahead with a cut of $1.1 million, a final loss of 2.6 million in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2009 is catastrophic," Sato said.

Sato said the community efforts to help the hospital, including SOH and the consortium working for a new hospital grant are vital, but the hospital may not be able to survive long enough, with the state cuts, for their funding to be available.

Sato suggested four options for the Board to consider: fund the estimated loss of $2.6 million; direct staff to find outside companies to operate the hospital and to either absorb the losses or keep some or all of the profits; direct staff to develop plans to reconfigure the mix of services that will yield the lowest loss possible; or direct staff to close the hospital if losses exceed a certain amount.

The Board agreed to look into those and other options, but as of this week did not want to go the route of closing the hospital. That option does become a real possibility in the near future if the other options don't pan out. If the state goes ahead with the cuts, Sato and Maxwell agree Modoc Medical Center is in critical condition.

Fandango rolls out fun for Independence Day weekend

The Fourth of July weekend celebration known as Fandango Days in Alturas opens Friday with a line up of activities for children and adults. Events open Friday morning, July 4 with some new and several returning features, plus high school and family reunions.

On Friday morning, July 4, the 51st annual Alturas Noon Rotary Fish Derby starts at 8 a.m. at Pine Creek reservoir for children ages 12 years and under, providing their own fishing poles and bait. The annual event is dedicated to its founder, the late K.C. Tierney, who organized the first Rotary Fish Derby for Modoc kids in 1957. Kids will cast their lines to start the two-hour competition with lunch and prizes to follow.

A Disc Golf Tournament Friday, July 4, 10 a.m. to noon at the Eighth and Warner Street location is open to everyone, with prizes for individual and team categories. Entry is $5 individual or $20, teams. Prizes for best score and top three teams. Event sponsored by Modoc Parks and Recreation District.
Friday, starting at noon, Alturas' Desert Rose Casino opens a day full of activity for adults and kids, with a barbecued hamburgers or hotdogs for $5, kids' games, plus a horseshoe tournament and DJ music on the lawn. (See display ad for details).

At 3:30 Friday, Modoc Parks and Recreation District will organize a GPS Treasure Hunt (geocache) July 4. Anyone with a hand-held GPS is welcome to register for the hunt for $5 per team. Meet at the locomotive next to Veterans' Park and Modoc Museum for a brief explanation prior to the "Hunt" to start promptly at 4 p.m.

Fandango 2008 events organized by the Alturas Chamber of Commerce start Friday evening, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. with a free family Street Dance on East Fifth Street, between Rite Aid and Plumas Bank. Music by local band Big Sage.

A bike ride around Modoc Wildlife Refuge will start from Veterans' Park at 8:30 a.m. for a 12-mile loop ride Saturday, July 5. Riders of any age can register at 8 a.m. at the park locomotive. Register, $5 for kids, 13-19; one dollar for kids 12 and under; $10 for adults.

At 11 a.m. Saturday, the Fandango Parade will head south down Alturas' Main Street, carrying the theme "Independence Day." Grand Marshal Marie Smith, long-time Director of Modoc Senior Citizens Center, will be joined by this year's color guard, local Boy Scouts Troops 49, 56, Cub Pack 56 and Girl Scout Troop 1491, in leading the floats, equestrians, four-wheelers, classic and antique vehicles, novelty entries and more. Watch for Little and Junior Mr. and Miss Fandango, the new Modoc Beef Princess and Miss Modoc 2008 contestants plus some surprise entries.

Parade entries will be judged during the parade with ribbon awards given at the park at 1 p.m.
Immediately following the parade, the celebration continues at Veterans' Park. View the classic car show on the lawns of Rachel Dorris park behind the Modoc Museum then cross over to Veterans' Park for a barbecued meal cooked by the Alturas Fire Department this year, or stop by the Federated Church booth where grilled hamburgers with all the fixings and iced tea await. For over 20 years, Federated members have been a mainstay, firing up their grills and serving hundreds of customers. Alturas Lions Club beer booth will return this year, along with vendor booths of all kinds, a children's corner featuring contests, pony rides and more. The Alturas City and Rural Fire Department's will go for their second year water hose competition, Cowpie Bingo returns with Mollie, Debbie and Mike Mason's special family cow to make someone a big winner. Purchase squares on site from a Chamber member. Hear live music, relax and catch up on visiting at the Veterans' Park in Alturas throughout the afternoon.

Fireworks start at dusk Saturday night over California Pines Lake at Cal Pines Lodge. The show draws a large crowd, dispersed over the Lodge lawns and around the lake for great viewing from any angle. The show is generously sponsored by the California Pines Property Owners Association. A tri-tip beef, hamburger, hot dog barbecue starts at 1 p.m. at Cal Pines Lodge July 5. From 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Evolution, a Top 40 rock' n roll band will play classic hits from the 60s, 70's, 80's and 90's to the smash hits of today.

Parade entries will begin lining up at 9 a.m. July 5 at the corner of Eighth and Main Streets.
This year's volunteer Alturas Chamber of Commerce Board organizing Fandango this year, includes President Jim Cavasso; Vice President Jennifer Barcia; Treasurer Frieda DuBois; Secretary Rose Boulade; directors Terri Haralson, Heather Prevette, Val Flournoy, Valerie Lantz and Stephanie Northrup. Penny Cruse takes on the duties as parade coordinator once again. Last minute parade entries will not be judged.

Hospital district tax legal, opinion states

The Save Our Hospital Committee allocated $10,000 last week to a law firm to render a legal opinion on the formation of a hospital district relating to the tax assessment.

On June 30, that opinion was delivered to SOH and states the proposed tax is legal. That opinion should clear the way for the issue to go through the Local Agency Formation Commission, LAFCO, as well as satisfy the concerns of the Modoc County Board of Supervisors. The actual cost of the opinion was not revealed.

The issues were: number one, whether the proposed special tax of $175 assessed to each unique property owner located within the proposed hospital district was legal; and two, whether a property owner who is not registered to vote in the proposed district can impede the implementation of the hospital tax.

The second question contained a possible fatal flaw in the district formation since it was primarily directed at California Pines property owners who do not reside in Modoc, but if the issue passed, would be assessed the special tax.

While hospital districts cannot adopt a general tax, they can adopt special taxes, the opinion states. To adopt a special tax, two-thirds of the voters in the district must approve it in an election.

"The hospital tax is not an ad valorem property tax, which is defined as a tax based on the full cash value of real property," the opinion states. "Instead, the Hospital Tax is a valid special tax, so long as it is approved by a two-thirds vote of the electorate."

It's important to note that the two-thirds requirement means two-thirds of the voters who actually vote in the special election, not two-thirds of the registered voters in the proposed district.

"Only registered electors within the proposed hospital district's boundaries are eligible to vote on the adoption of the hospital tax," the opinion concludes. "Any person owning or leasing property within the proposed hospital district has the option to register to vote (generally must prove residency in the district). However, if a property owner fails or does not qualify to register to vote at the election at which the hospital tax is proposed, that property owner cannot protest the imposition of the hospital tax on the grounds that he was unable to vote on the measure . . . the hospital tax is valid if approved by two-thirds of the registered voters of the proposed hospital district voting in the election, even if some property owners to whom the hospital tax will be assessed are non-residents ineligible to vote on the hospital tax . . . additionally, a tax may be imposed without reference to its particular benefits to specific individuals or property.

The proposal by SOH calls for a tax per "unique" property owner, basically defined as one assessment regardless of the number of parcels the person owns. People will not be taxed per parcel they own.

The Board of Supervisors was reticent to sign on to the district until the legal opinion was reached. Assessor Cheri Budmark and Treasurer/ Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch have raised concerns regarding the legality of the plans.

The formation of a district will have to pass the voters by a simple majority while the funding portion of the district will have to pass by a two-thirds vote.

Be very careful with fireworks

All local agencies are stressing the importance of fireworks safety this Fourth of July, as the area is very dry and many fire resources are out of county on other fires.

Fireworks are not allowed on public lands anywhere in Modoc County, and campers are advised not to take fireworks with them.

Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes said his officers will be enforcing fireworks laws and people who use other than "safe and sane" fireworks will be cited.

Several community fireworks displays have been canceled this year, including Rotary of the Intermountain area. That display was scheduled for July 5, but the lack of necessary fire apparatus and personnel prompted that club to cancel the event.

The Annual Fandango Fireworks show over Cal Pines Lake in Modoc is still scheduled. It is sponsored by the California Pines Property Owners' Association and is set for Saturday evening.

Obituaries:


Betty Ruth Clark

After a long struggle, Betty Ruth Clark of Alturas, peacefully passed on to her heavenly home on Thursday, June 26, 2008 with her family by her side. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother and friend. She was 86.

Betty Ruth Combe was born December 28, 1921, in San Francisco, CA, to Albert and Ruth Combe. She was the middle daughter of the family with an older sister Frances and later, a younger sister Nancy. Betty was reared in San Francisco, attended Roosevelt Grammar School, Presidio Junior High and graduated from George Washington High School. After graduation in 1939, Betty took a position as an operator with Bell Telephone in the City where she formed a fast friendship with a fellow operator named Esther Overend- an older woman who had a son just about Betty's age. His name was Bill. Ester insisted that the two meet while Bill was home on furlough from the Army. When Betty and Bill met, it was love at first sight. Betty was 22 when she married her soldier Bill in July 1944 at Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho. A month later, Bill shipped out to Italy and was away for eight long months. Betty lived and worked in San Francisco during these months, during war-time blackout drills that forced the telephone operators to keep the switchboards up and running by flashlight. Bill's homecoming was celebrated in the summer of 1945, and shortly thereafter, the couple moved to Alturas, CA to start a life and family. Bill joined his father Frank, in his meat cutting business.

Their first daughter Betty Jean was born June 16, 1946 on Father's Day. Six years later, daughter Phyllis Elaine was born March 27, 1952. Adjusting to life in a small town, Betty's main priority became caring for her family and participating in church activities. She loved singing in the church choir and teaching Sunday school. She was a member of the Church of Christ.

Never a stranger to hard work, she helped Bill in the meat market. When Bill retired, they traveled and enjoyed their grandchildren. Betty loved gardening, cooking, picnics, drives in the country and seeing new sights. Betty was up for anything and was always happy to do something a little daring. She loved holidays, and decorating, baking, giving gifts and organizing activities. She was an outstanding cook and could literally make dinner out of "thin air."

As Betty grew older, she began experiencing deteriorating health conditions and unsteadiness on her feet forced her into a wheelchair. Although she had failing memory, she never lost track of her family and could remember dates and names when nobody else could. Bill remained steadfast and devoted to her care. When she could no longer handle all the tasks, an angel came to them in the form of a lady name Patricia Waters, who became one of the family. With Bill, the girls and Tricia by her side, Betty valiantly battled the transition from vibrant to impaired without a word of complaint. She never lost her beautiful smile. Even in her last months, she continued to make many friends at Modoc Medical Center whose staff will remember her fondly as Miss Betty.

Her family and friends will grieve her loss; but know she leave them better for having know her, having loved her and having been nurtured by her. Betty was a past member of Order of Easter Star Chapter 51. Donald M. Wilson officiated a graveside service at the Alturas Center on Tuesday, July 1. A time of fellowship followed at Alturas Church of Christ.

Betty is survived by her devoted and loving husband William M. Clark of Alturas; daughters Betty J. and husband Ted L. Vaughn of Keno, Oregon; daughter Phyllis Clark-Kirkman and husband Dave Kirkman of Redding, CA.; sister Nancy Douglas Syvertsen and husband Al Syvertsen of Saratoga, CA; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and nine great-great grandchildren. Contributions in Betty's memory may be directed to Modoc Medical Center, McDowell St. or the Alturas Senior Citizens Center, 906 West Fourth St., Alturas, CA 96101.

Arrangements made with Kerr Mortuary.

Helen Sweet

Alturas resident Helen Sweet, 58, died June 29 at Mercy Hospital in Redding from complications of recently discovered cancer.

She was born Oct. 23, 1949 in McComb, Mississippi and has been in Modoc since 1983. She married former Modoc County Sheriff Raymond Sweet in 1986 and they made their home just outside of Alturas. He survives.

A full obituary will be printed soon and the time and date of a memorial service is pending.

James "Jim" Johnston

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated for James (Jim) W Johnston, who died on May 22, 2008 at his ranch in Big Valley, CA, after a brief illness following heart surgery. Services were held on Saturday, May 31, 2008 both in Redding and Hillside Cemetery, Nubieber, CA.

Survived by his wife of 40 years, Josefa Johnston and their precious daughter, Juli M. Johnston, and his beloved children, Mrs. Linda M. Tyson and Wendell L. Johnston and their families; his loving mother, Mrs. Alice (Dee) Cherrington, his sister, Mrs. Janet (Lee) Gilliland, step-siblings: Martin (Joy) Cherrington, Mrs. Patricia C.(Sam) D'Angelo, Stetson Gifford, Greg (Jan) Gifford and their loved mother, Mrs. Barbara Johnston, uncle Mr. Robert (Barbara) Johnston, aunt Mrs. Carrie Guttry.
Preceded in death by his father Walter L. Johnston, Dee Cherrington, aunt Virginia Turner, uncle Evan Guttry, grandmothers Leah Schott and Viola Johnston.

Born August 13, 1935, raised and educated in Redding, CA, he graduated with the Class of 1954 from Shasta High School where he was active in Future Farmers of America organization.

Owner of Triple J Boring and Excavating, Homestead Hay, and Big Valley Red Angus.
Donations may be made to the Big Valley Historical Museum; Lookout Grange No.415; Modoc Medical Center building fund.

Marilyn Elaine Eugene

Former Alturas resident Marilyn Elaine Eugene, born April 25, 1930, in Weaverville, CA, slipped the bonds of earth and began her final journey to the Lord on June 24, 2008. 

She graduated from Modoc Union High in Alturas, CA in 1948; received a Bachelor's Degree in Education at Chico State College in 1953 and began a 35 year career as a Girls P.E. teacher and Counselor in California High Schools.  Placer, Taft, Roseville and Oakmont High School students were among those privileged to learn from her dedication and enthusiasm of women's sports.  Marilyn was inducted into Chico State Athletic Hall of Fame Oct. 3, 1998 noting undergrad participation in 6 major sports, her devotion to her students and all sports.  She was an avid supporter of WNBA Monarchs!  Marilyn was predeceased by her mother and father, Joseph and Elaine Eugene, brother Harry, and sister Mildred Loose.  She is survived by sister Joanne Molen and brother Bill both of Las Vegas, NV, eight nieces and nephews and a host of co-workers and friends. 

An informal "Celebration of Life" and balloon release will be held July 13, 2 – 4 p.m. at her home, 2525 Flume Lane, Newcastle, CA.  Please RSVP to 916-663-2742.

Sports

Junior girls softball tourney here

The Modoc Junior Girls Softball All-Star team will open the District 48 Tournament at the Modoc Little League field Monday, 5:30 p.m. when they meet the Quincy All-Stars.
The double elimination tourney will have a game each night at 5:30 p.m., July 7-11.

All games will be at the little League Field on West C Street in Alturas.

First MX race set July 11-13

The first Modoc Motorsports Association's inaugural motocross race will be July 11,12 and 13 at the new Cedarville Fairgrounds Track and will be a part of two series races out of the Medford and Keno, Oregon areas.

Riders who come to this race will earn points in those series. Local riders have been competing in the Oregon series for the past couple of years and were anxious to get a race in Alturas. MMA organizers expect more than 150 riders for the event.

For the races, July 11 will be a practice day with races on July 12,13. The Pro-am event will have a $1,000 payout each day.

MMA is raffling a 2007 Yamaha Rhino 660 as the top prize to help fund the races. Second prize will be the ATV trailer and third prize is $250 cash.

The winning ticket will be drawn on July 13. Tickets are available at Modoc County Title, Pioneer Auto Body, Alturas Tire, Les Schwab Tire, True Value, and Main Street Coffee.

Rotary Fish Derby for kids July 4 at Pine Creek

The 51st annual Alturas Noon Rotary Fish Derby will be held at Pine Creek reservoir on Friday, July 4. All children ages 12 years and under are eligible to participate, using their own fishing poles and bait. The annual event is dedicated to its founder, the late K.C. Tierney, who organized the first Rotary Fish Derby for Modoc kids in 1957.

Beginning at 8 a.m., kids will cast their lines to start the two-hour competition. At 10 a.m. lines must be pulled from the water, officially ending the tournament. Rotary cooks Fritz Barclay and Penny Cruse will prepare lunch. Club President Tim Burke and members Elaine Carrillo, Bob Brooks and Leta Bethel will serve hot dogs and drinks to children, parents and grandparents, while the officials Bobby Ray, Pam Couch and Don Crum finish weighing and measuring the catch. Emcee Bob Savage will present six prizes in all- for first fish caught by a boy and girl; biggest fish caught by a boy and girl; and most fish or first to limit out by a boy and girl.

Although every eligible participant will receive one ticket for special drawing, only one lucky boy and one happy girl will go home with a brand-new bike. Alturas Rotarians and the following local merchants sponsored prizes for the event: Seab and Karen McDonald of Seab's True Value; Ron Prevette of Sports Hut and George and Linda Wistos of The Belligerent Duck.

The newly formed MMA has about 70 members and is open and encouraging more members to join and help with the inaugural race. The organization needs volunteers on race day.

July 10, 2008

News

Major injuries in Cedar Pass rollover

Two Alturas residents sustained major injuries in a single vehicle accident on Cedar Pass July 8, 12:40 p.m.The California Highway Patrol reports that Jay L. Eppler, age 55, was westbound in a 2007 Honda at an unknown speed at the top of Cedar Pass. He allowed the vehicle to leave the paved portion of the highway, where the Honda struck a sign, a rock face and then rolled over several times.

Eppler and a passenger in the vehicle, V.M. Gardner, age 16, were transported by ambulance to Surprise Valley Hospital and then flown out to Mercy Hospital in Redding. Both were reported to have major injuries.The CHP states that seatbelts and airbags reduced injuries.Flying sheet metal damaged a vehicle on State Route 299 east of Adin July 6, 4:17 p.m., but no injuries were reported. According to the CHP, Ray Hawk, 33, of Adin, was eastbound driving a 1996 Subaru at about 45 m.p.h., towing a utility trailer. Sheet metal on the trailer became airborne and struck a 2007 Dodge Charger driven by Lance Nelson, 38, of Seattle. Nelson was behind the Hawk vehicle. He tried to avoid the flying metal, but it hit the right front of the Charger, flew around and collided with the right passenger door. Both vehicles were able to stop safely. The Charger had damage to the right front bumper, fender, hood, right headlights and the right door.

City will put sale tax issue on ballot

The Alturas City Council passed a resolution Tuesday night, which will put a half-cent sales tax issue on the November ballot.

The issue will only affect transactions in the City of Alturas and the funds raised by the sales tax increase would be used specifically for public safety, police and fire protection.

The City will call the special election issue along with the general election on November 4. Registered voters in the City will have the option to say "yes" or "no" to the new tax. To pass, it will require a two-thirds majority of those voting in the city election.

Police Chief Ken Barnes said the funding is necessary, in part, because of the uncertainty of state and federal funding. Barnes said the funding would be used to improve and maintain the public safety services in Alturas.

Hospital debt rate slows down

Modoc Medical Center's debt to Modoc County went up to $11,200,542 at the end of June, an increase of $109,177. That's an improvement over last month's increase of $197,210, according to Modoc County Auditor Judi Stevens. For the first six months of this year, the debt has increased by $946,374.

May's hospital debt went up to $11,091,365 from $10,894,425 at the end of April and from $10,472,337 at the end of March.

The debt was $10,423,955 at the end of February. That compares to a debt of $10,254,168 at the end of January.

The debt was $9,796,084 at the end of December.

The debt has increased since September 2005's $4,690,812 by a total of $6,509,730.

SOH trying to get LAFCO app done

The Save Our Hospital Local Agency Formation Commission sub-committee is now working hard to complete a business plan, with updated financial information reflecting the current healthcare uncertainties.

"We're confident our business plan, along with the legal opinion favorable to Save Our Hospital will present enough information that the Board of Supervisors can sign the resolution allowing the proposed hospital district to be submitted to voters within the proposed district boundaries," said SOH's Lau Miller.

SOH hopes to submit district formation materials to LAFCO by the end of July in an effort to get the issue on the ballot next spring. The formation of a district will have to pass the voters by a simple majority while the funding portion of the district will have to pass by a two-thirds vote.

The proposal by SOH calls for a tax per "unique" property owner, basically defined as one assessment regardless of the number of parcels the person owns. People will not be taxed per parcel they own.

The ultimate plan is for SOH to have everything in place to put the District formation and funding measures to the voters in March 2009.

In addition to that plan, the Board of Supervisors is considering placing a measure on the November ballot seeking a short-term tax to actually help keep the hospital open and cover the operation costs. That issue will come back to the Board for discussion at the July 15 meeting. That tax issue would also have to pass by a two-thirds majority to be implemented.

The Board has also directed staff to contact an interested private firm, Blackhawk, of Austin, Texas and invite them to tour Modoc Medical Center in the near future. The county would be investigating a purchase, lease purchase, or operating contract with that firm, depending upon the firm's assessment of the local hospital.

The Board is concerned that the SOH vote may be too late and is investigating other options, if that plan does not pan out. The fact that any vote on special taxes requires passage by a "super-majority" of two-thirds is also a serious concern.

Obituaries:


Rose (James) Ash

Rose Mae Ash, known as "Mom" to the many kids she raised over the years, in addition to her own large, loving blended and extended family, passed away on the evening of July 7, 2008, at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. She was 78.

A loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Rose and her husband Paul worked side by side for many years serving their customers, young and old, at their business, the popular Munch Box drive-in and restaurant in Alturas from1983 until 1996. Even when they sold the business, they continued to help the new owners by working behind the counter and taking care of customers.

Born on June 11, 1930 in Sego, Utah, to Anna (Kufner) and James Burrough James, the family moved to Ashland, OR where Rose graduated from Ashland High School in 1949. Her father worked for the railroad and her parents later moved to Modoc County. Rose started her own life in Modoc in 1964, when she moved here with her two sons when she was 34. Her daughter Sandy was born in Alturas. After her father died in January and her mother died in April 1969, Rose helped raise her siblings, as she was the eldest of 11 children. Her youngest sister was 13 at the time. Rose also helped raise many nieces and nephews. Her kids and grandchildren were her life.

Rose married Paul Donald Ash on May 10, 1970 in Reno, NV. Over the years, Rose worked at the Alturas bowling lanes restaurant as a server, as a cook for Warnerview Convalescent and a local preschool, and in food service with Modoc Joint Unified School District. In 1982 Rose retired as the MJUSD Nutritionist in charge. The following year, she and Paul purchased The Munch Box. Rose found time to write poetry, read, draw, crochet, sing and became a "professional grandma" to her family. She was also a Cub Scout Den Leader and a Blue Bird Leader. She made sure family reunions were organized and well attended. Her home was always open to anyone who needed a place and a meal. She cared about people and was dearly loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents James Burrough James and Anna (Kufner) James and brother James Burrough James, Jr.

She is survived by her loving husband Paul Ash of Alturas, CA; children: son Richard Brush, Jr. and wife Cora of Corning, CA; son Robin Brush and wife Judath of Alturas, CA; daughter Sandy Hartman and husband Tony of Alturas, CA; stepdaughters Cris and Victor James, Noxon, MT.; Renae and Tom Redman, Osceola, Nebraska; Charla and Jay Baker, Dodge City, KS; Tracy and Buck Silva, Alturas, CA; Mari Jo and Jim Owens, Ignacio, CO; sisters: Dorris Wiley, Ashland, OR; Betty Robinson, Sacramento, CA; Pamela Todaro, Chicago, IL; Jackie Banuelous, Klamath Falls, OR; Francis Elliot, Fallon, NV; Helen Clark, Klamath Falls, OR; brothers: Johnny James, Alturas, CA; Larry James, Ashland, OR; Victor James, Noxon, MT; 23 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be held from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. on Friday, July 11 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Alturas. LDS Church President Carl Hubble will conduct services at 9 a.m. at the church. Following the service, friends and family are invited to gather at the home of Rose and Paul Ash at 432 West 19th St., Alturas.

Memorials may be made to any humanitarian cause.

Helen M. Sweet

Alturas resident Helen Melissa Chapman Sweet, 58, went home to be with her Lord Jesus on June 29, 2008 at Mercy Hospital in Redding.

She was born October 23, 1949 in McComb, Mississippi and lived in Beemer, Nebraska before moving to Redding in 1963. She graduated from Enterprise High School, Redding in 1967. Helen moved to Alturas, CA in 1983. She married former Modoc County Sheriff Raymond Sweet on July 9, 1986 in Alturas, CA. She was a devoted, loving wife and mother who loved gardening and growing flowers, fishing and camping with her family and hunting with her husband. Helen loved to go for drives in the Warner Mountains and appreciated nature's gifts. She also appreciated items made of brass and became a collector of many pieces.

Helen was a professional, capable, kind person with a good attitude and sense of humor.

While living in Redding, she was a manager, bonded through Alcoholic Beverage Control. She also was radio advisory operator for a private flying club and worked in attendant care supervising patient transports to or from hospitals by plane and auto. Once she moved to Modoc County, Helen worked for five seasons at Lynetta Ranches, driving a swather. She was hired in 1984 as a matron-dispatcher at Modoc County Sheriff's Dept. She worked as a teller at Heart Federal Savings and Loan in Alturas in 1985 and was hired in 1986 as the Civil Clerk for Modoc Justice Court and later as a victim witness advocate. From 1990 until 1995, Helen worked at State Farm Insurance Agency in Alturas as secretary, office manager and became state licensed in insurance sales. She underwent seven back surgeries as an adult and had recently been diagnosed with cancer.

She was preceded in death by her parents J.A. Chapman and Helen Chapman Welch; niece Angie Lyons; brother Eddie Chapman; stepfather Robert Welch and Ray's parents Willard and Pearl Sweet.
She is survived by her husband Raymond Sweet of Alturas, CA; son Richard Chapman of Alturas; stepdaughter Renee and husband Pete Coats of Cedarville, CA; Stepson John Sweet of Chowchilla, CA; grandchildren Sean and Allie Chapman of Alturas and Nathan Calhan of Red Bluff; sister Loretta Clink of Redding and best friend since high school Dona McIndoo of Redding and step-mother-in-law Lola Sweet of Gerlach, NV. She will be forever loved and missed by all who knew her.
Graveside memorial services will be conducted by the Rev. Dr. Ben Zandstra on Saturday, July 12, at 11 a.m. at the Alturas Cemetery. A gathering with refreshments will follow at the Alturas Elks Lodge. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Memorials may be made to any local charity of the donor's choice.

Ruby G. Rodriquez

Ruby Gladys Rodriquez, 78, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2008, at Modoc Medical Center in Alturas, California. Ruby had moved to Warnerview Convalescent in 1998, where she came to know everyone and lived for 10 years. Ruby was born in Anderson, California on March 28, 1930 to Louis and Jewel Wool. She attended Sherman Indian School in Riverside, California. She was small-framed but a strong, hard worker. Throughout the years she worked and managed orchard fields, picked peaches and strawberries and supervised orchard workers. She also did various housekeeping duties throughout Northern California. She owned a home and property in Nubieber and was a Pit River Tribal Elder. Her long-time companion Steven J. Varela passed away in 1994. In 1997, Ruby had a heart attack and a stroke. She moved to Hayward to live with her sister for a time, but longed to return home. She lived on her own for a time at her Nubieber home and the following year, she moved to Warnerview for more care. In May of 2008, she fell and broke a hip, then had a second stroke, while undergoing surgery. She returned to live at Warnerview.Ruby is survived by her only child Celeste "Lawana" "Minnie" and husband Eddy Martinez of Reno, NV and two grandsons, Gregory L. Rhoades of Southern California and Jeffrey T. and wife Tracy Fuller of Reno, NV and one great-grandson Brandon L. Fuller of Reno, NV. She is also survived by her sister Marjorie Martinez of Hayward, CA; nieces Diane, Loretta, Kathy, Jessie, several great-nieces, nephews and numerous relatives.There will be a wake on Friday, July 11, 7:00 p.m., at the Burney Community Center. Funeral will be held on Saturday July 12 at 11:00 a.m. at Burney Community Center. For more information contact Pit River Tribal Office 530-335-5421.

Elayne Eleanor Ramey

Elayne Eleanor Ramey, age 88, passed away at the home of her daughter in Adin, CA on July 6, 2008. She spent her last year living with each of her daughters in their homes in Palm Springs and Adin, CA, but was a life-long resident of Modesto, CA. 

Elayne was born to George and Gertrude Epperson on February 8, 1920 in Modesto, CA. Elayne married Jack Ramey on June 29, 1939. Jack and Elayne owned several businesses including the Modesto Printing Company, Dryden Poultry & Breeding Farm and Pleasant Hill Golf & Country Club. Throughout her life, Elayne held a myriad of jobs including working on a canning line, movie theater usher, cake decorator, event coordinator, piano player and bingo caller for a convalescent hospital where her mother passed. But her favorite job of all was loving her husband Jack and two beautiful daughters Jackie and Jill. Another great love Elayne always cherished was that of her Lord, Jesus Christ. In a letter to one of her grandchildren she wrote, "Anything about the Bible (the Word of God) you cannot understand give it to the Lord now, and when we get to heaven, He will tell us all." So the Lord is getting plenty of questions right now and He has an eager listener!

Elayne was preceded in death by her brother Lloyd Epperson, grandson Jeff Collinson and husband Jack Ramey. She is survived by daughters Jackie Mullen and her husband Dave of Palm Springs, CA and Jill Thomas and her husband Spencer of Adin, CA; grandchildren Cory Manzo and her husband Pablo of Shingle Springs, CA; Todd Hultgren and his wife Stacy of Henderson, NV; Holly Krieg of Adin; Coupar Thomas of Anderson, CA and Baley Plascencia and her husband Pedro of Wildomar, CA, and eight great-grandchildren.

A private memorial service will be held at the Lakewood Memorial Park in Hughson, CA.  The family is forever grateful to Intermountain Hospice. 

Melinda Ann Reed

Melinda Ann Reed of Alturas, a 20-year, well-loved resident of Alturas passed away at her home in Likely, CA Wednesday morning, July 9, 2008. She was 61. A memorial celebration of life gathering will take place at the Likely Fire Hall on Saturday, July 12 at 11 a.m.Known as "Linda" to her many friends, she had worked as a medical assistant for the past six years at Modoc Medical Clinic, Alturas, until she was diagnosed with cancer in May. She was born Melinda Ann Marsh on May 21, 1947 in Santa Rosa, CA. She married Dennis Reed, Sr. on February 26, 1964 in Sebastopol, CA. While their three children were growing up, she was a full-time, stay-at-home mother, while her husband traveled, working in construction.

"Mom loved people and found good in everyone," recalls her eldest child, Becky Roberts of Susanville. "She was one to give everyone the benefit of the doubt." Her family gathered for a reunion and barbecue in April, with no idea that Linda was sick. Linda was able to see her new great-grandchild and her grandchildren. "She loved her family, her kids, grandchildren and great-grandchildren."When the family moved to Modoc County, Linda trained and went to work as a Certified Nurse Assistant at Warnerview Convalescent Hospital for 11 years. She enjoyed helping people. She also enjoyed gardening and quilting. She and Dennis celebrated their 44 years of marriage this year. She will be missed dearly by her loving family and many good friends.She is survived by her husband Dennis Reed, Sr. of Likely, CA; daughter Becky and husband Larry Roberts of Susanville, CA; son Dennis and wife Lisa Reed of Alturas, CA; son Darrin and wife Sally Reed of Fairfield, MT; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Sports

Motocross race expects to be roaring

This weekend will be roaring at the new Modoc Motorsports Association inaugural motocross racetrack in Cedarville just west of the Fairgrounds arena.

MMA organizers expect racers from throughout the region, including Oregon Nevada and the Redding area. They are expecting a full race card in all events.

July 11 will be a practice day with full races on July 12,13. The Pro-am event will have a $1,000 payout each day. There is no gate fee on Friday, and the gate for Saturday and Sunday is $10 for non MMA members and $5 for members.

Gates will open at 6:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday with registration at 7 a.m. and racing will start at 10 a.m. following a hour practice session.

The races are part of two series races out of the Medford and Keno, Oregon areas. Riders who come to this race will earn points in those series. Local riders have been competing in the Oregon series for the past couple of years and were anxious to get a race in Alturas. MMA organizers expect more than 150 riders for the event.

MMA is raffling a 2007 Yamaha Rhino 660 as the top prize to help fund the races. Second prize will be the ATV trailer and third prize is $250 cash.

The winning ticket will be drawn on July 13. Tickets are available at Modoc County Title, Pioneer Auto Body, Alturas Tire, Les Schwab Tire, True Value, and Main Street Coffee.

The newly formed MMA has about 70 members and is open and encouraging more members to join and help with the inaugural race. The organization needs volunteers on race day.
The Alturas Lions Club will be manning the concession stand for the event.

Modoc girls move on in tourney

Modoc's Junior Girls All-Star team won the district tourney here this week and now travel to the sectionals at Wheatland, with the first game July 16.

Modoc beat Quincy 14-3 in the first game, then Quincy came back to beat Modoc 12-11 in the second game.

Modoc won the championship game 14-12 in extra innings.

Major boys stars lose in Quincy

Modoc's Major Boys All-star team finished in fourth place at the District 48 tournament held in Quincy.
After losing the first game the team battled back through the loser's bracket and missed making the semi- finals by losing 5-4 in their final game against Intermountain.

The major league regular season boy's winners were the Braves, who went 12-0 and the girl's title team was the Phillies who had a 10-2 record.

The boys team consisted of Kyle Royce, Dillon Egle, Zack Delette, Fernando Alcala, Alex Valencia, David Buckley, Tyler Doss, Jefferey Sims, Charlie McGarva, Daniel Beebout, KC Brandsted and Arthur Delette.
The Phillies team members were: Elizabeth Sanchez, Macie Larranaga, Tamera Wheeler, Kelly Jo Schmidt, Linzie Malcom, Jodi Budreaux, Sierra Kerr, Kimberly Dewitt, Kristen Reed and Isabella Cervantes.
The two teams were coached by Ernie Givan, with assistance from Victoria Larranaga, Dale Dewitt and Greg Valencia.

Disc Golf course opens

The Grand Opening of the Warner Park Disc Golf Course located on the corner of Warner and 8thStreet was held on Thursday, July 3rd.   Pat Cantrall cut the ribbon to open of the park for play. 

There were seventy people in attendance a great turn out.  Discs can to checked out at Alturas Swimming Pool and Modoc Family Center (located just east of Alturas Elementary).

The First Annual Disc Golf Tournament was held on Friday, July 4th.  The winner of the tournament was Mike Asher.  The winner won a free night at Surprise Valley Hot Springs.

July 17th 2008

News

Hospital options narrow, district moves forward

The options for the future of Modoc Medical Center narrowed considerably this week when a potential management company dropped out and no path to a county levy vote was found.

According to CEO Mike Maxwell, Blackhawk Healthcare LLC, out of Austin, Texas, opted out of the management of MMC. He said the company felt this area was just too remote and too far away from major medical facilities.

On Tuesday, County Counsel John Kinney told the Board he had not found a legal vehicle that would allow it to place a county special tax issue for the hospital on the November ballot. He will continue to study the issue, but the county will soon be facing a deadline to get the issue on that ballot.

So, one of the remaining few options on the table is the Save Our Hospital Committee’s healthcare district plan. That project has moved forward and the business plan was presented to the county Tuesday evening. The Board will hold a public hearing on that plan and the formation of a district August 5, 9:30 a.m. in the Modoc County Sheriff’s Conference Room.

The Board needs to adopt a resolution between it and the SOH to forward the entire package to the Modoc Local Agency Formation Commission, which must approve the formation of the Last Frontier Healthcare District.

Once LAFCO approves the formation of the district, it must go before a vote of the people within the boundaries of the district, defined loosely as an area similar to the Modoc Joint Unified School District, but not including Davis Creek or New Pine Creek.

Voters will be asked to approve the formation of the district, requiring a simple majority to pass and a second question will ask voters to approve an annual per property owner assessment of between $175 and $195. The assessment has to pass by a two-thirds margin of those casting ballots in the election.

The plan is to have the special election next spring, probably in March. According to SOH’s figures, the $175 assessment could raise $2,708,825 annually and a $195 assessment would raise $3,018,305.

It’s interesting to note that there are 2,212 owners living within the district and 13,267 living outside the district, primarily California Pines property owners. The in-district owners would contribute $387,100 at the $175 rate and outside owners would pay $2,321,725. Only owners who reside in the district are allowed to vote on the issue.

State budget could be devastating

Modoc County Chief Administrative Officer Mike Maxwell said the department heads in the county have done a solid job on their budget proposals this year, but he fears what the state impacts will yield.

“Potentially, the state could close our hospital and devastate the county this year,” Maxwell said Wednesday. “We don’t know just what the budget impacts will be yet.”

Maxwell said as the budget recommendation from the legislature conference committee sits now, the county would lose the Rural Sheriff’s money amounting to $500,000 annually, another $100,000 in COPS funding, and there is still a talk of 10 percent cuts in other areas and a five percent cut in the medical reimbursement to the hospital.

Also looming on the horizon is a return to a “property tax shift” the state used in the recent past. That would allow the state to set aside Prop. 1A and Prop 40 requirements on county property tax and gas tax allocations.

Maxwell said he figure he’s upside down on the county budget by about $300,000 now, but could manage that amount. If some of the other state cuts happen, it would mean the county would be closer to a  $1 million shortfall and he said “that would be bad.”

If the state continues its intent to cut the Rural Sheriff’s funding, that $500,000 cut will create some serious hardships, Maxwell said.

As it stands now, the conference committee is proposing the cuts, plus some new taxes. The probability of new taxes getting a required two-thirds majority vote in the legislature is remote.

Maxwell said he has no clear picture, nor does anyone else, as to when the state will finally adopt its budget. He said the county has gotten to a point where its budget is a good as it can be, until the final ramifications from the state come down.

Modoc assessed value up 5.69 percent

Secured property values in Modoc rose by 5.69 percent on the 2008-09 Assessment roll, released by Assessor Cheri Budmark July 7. The values went from last year’s $821,712,559 to $868,447,666.

Budmark notes that the increase is below last year’s level of 8.48 percent. She also said that approximately 2,183 parcels reflected a decline in value. The unsecured roll increased by .02 percent, from $29,847,795 to $29,855,234.

The total local assessment roll increased by 5.49 percent, $851,560,354 up $898,302,900.

Budmark reported that 18.93 percent of the total parcels in the county still reflect a 1975 land base year.

Budmark said changes in ownership amounted to $23,436,637, a 44.33 percent increase. That’s down dramatically from last year when change in ownership, new construction and so on amounted to $49,899,657, an increase of 76.28 percent.

There were 2,236 parcels reappraised for change in ownership and 534 parcels were reappraised or reviewed because of new construction in 2007. This year, 1,430 were reappraised for change in ownership and 532 parcels for new construction. That represents 274 fewer parcels reappraised.

There continues to be a slow down of activity in the California Pines area, as there is no major resale program continuing in that subdivision. This year here were 1,406 documents processed for Cal Pines, compared to 2,060 in 2006, 2,069 in 2005, 2,429 in 2004, and 3,496 in 2003.

The California Pines subdivision makes up 19.98 percent of the total secured roll in the county. That’s up from last year’s 19.49 percent. The lands outside of Alturas make up 31.17 percent of the roll, the City of Alturas and Surprise Valley each make up 13.58 percent, Tulelake 12.36 percent, Big Valley 7.92 percent and Day 1.41 percent.

The Williamson Act value showed a 59.05 percent decrease in value, with 614 parcels under contract, amounting to a decrease of $45,148,097, with the state subvention amounting to $195,594.

Torres named Modoc fair Queen

 By Jean Bilodeaux

Special to the Record

Rachel Torres Raelea Vickerman

Rachel Torres of Lookout was selected as Miss Modoc Queen at the final competition held at the Modoc County Fairgrounds on Saturday evening. She attends Big Valley High School and enjoys playing the piano, reading, sports, and showing livestock. Rachel hopes to attend a two year community college before transferring to a University and receiving a degree in Agriculture. She is the daughter of Abe and Renee Torres. Rachel is being sponsored by the Adin Supply and the Hoffman Hereford Ranch.

Raelea Vickerman, a junior at Modoc High School and is the daughter of Brett and Nikki Vickerman. Raelea hopes to attend UC Davis and become a veterinarian after her graduation from high school. As an outdoor enthusiast she enjoys riding, roping and rodeos. She is being sponsored by the Dunn Cattle Company and the Modoc Veterinary Center.

Both the queen and her princess will represent Modoc County in a year-long series of events and appearances in the tri-state area.

Fire restrictions start July 25 on BLM lands, Modoc Forest

Fire season restrictions on outdoor use of fire and firewood cutting begin Friday, July 25, on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands and the Modoc National Forest.

The restrictions apply to the entire forest and to public lands managed by the BLM Alturas, Eagle Lake and Surprise field offices in Modoc, Lassen, Plumas, Sierra, Shasta, Siskiyou, and Washoe counties. The South Warner Wilderness Area is exempt.

Use of chainsaws for woodcutting will be allowed until 1 p.m. daily on BLM-managed lands. On the Modoc National Forest, forest users are required to call the woodcutting/fire danger hotline, (530) 233-8819, before working in the woods. Chainsaw use is regulated according to daily fire danger levels.

Under the restrictions:

• Open fires are not allowed outside of posted, developed campgrounds and recreation sites, even with a campfire permit. Portable stoves and lanterns using gas, pressurized liquid fuel or jellied petroleum may be used outside of developed recreation sites. A campfire permit, available at all BLM and Forest Service offices, is required.

• Smoking is not allowed, except within developed recreation sites, inside buildings or in enclosed vehicles.

• Motor vehicles must remain on established roads and trails.

• Target shooters may not use tractor, metal jacket, incendiary or exploding ammunition.

As fire dangers increase through the summer firewood cutting may be suspended in some areas. Fire officials urge woodcutters to cut firewood early.

Fire restrictions are already in place for the Lassen and Plumas national forests, and for public lands managed by the BLM’s Redding and Carson City field offices. Those who plan to recreate in the wild lands should contact a BLM or Forest Service office to determine which fire restrictions are in effect.

Obituaries:

Jane Ellen Tarwater 

Jane Ellen Tarwater, age 84, went home to be with the Lord on July 14, 2008. She passed at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA.

Jane was born Nov. 8, 1923, in Excelsior Springs, MO to Thomas Jasper Tarwater and Nancy Ellen (Smart) Tarwater. She graduated from Excelsior Springs High School. She moved to Whittier, CA in the 1950s after the death of her father, to be close to her sister and family. For a few years, she worked for the telephone company and then went to work for the civil service. She lived in Bellflower and Paramount during this time, while working at the Naval Hospital in Long Beach and civil service positions in nearby cities. She retired in 1985 and moved to Alturas with her sister in December 1990.

Jane never married and thought of the many cats that she took care of over the years as her children. She loved animals and would never turn away a cat that came to her door. A big thanks to the volunteers at the High Plateau Humane Society whenever she needed help with her “children,” says her niece Nancy. Thank you to Warnerview SNF and Modoc Medical Center who took such good care of her these last months. She was preceded in death by her sister, Eleanor Atchison in September 2007 whom she missed very much. They are now having a great heavenly reunion. She is survived by her niece Nancy and husband Jim Walters of Alturas, CA; nephew Brad and Denise Atchison of Corona, CA and other nieces, nephews and cousins.

Kerr Mortuary is handling arrangements in Alturas and Jane will be laid to rest on July 18, 2008 next to her mother and father in Excelsior Springs, MO. The family also expresses their thanks to Jane’s niece, Betty Jewell who is helping with arrangements in Excelsior Springs.

Grover Cecil ‘Smitty’ Smith, Jr. 

Grover Cecil “Smitty” Smith, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Ft. Bidwell, CA on July 8, 2008, after a battle of Lewy Body disease. Mr. Smith was born August 9, 1932 in San Andreas, CA. He married his wife Gayle in Carson City, NV on Dec. 1, 1952.

Mr. Smith retired from National Can Corp. where he worked as a Seamer mechanic. He loved working with his hands and was a perfectionist. His projects were a thing of beauty. His passions were his family, wife, children, father-in-law Irving Dark, his love of the Lord and going fishing.

Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 52 years Gayle Smith of Ft. Bidwell; five children: Bonnie and spouse Joseph Renteria of Whittier, CA; Rebecca Thurman of Ft. Bragg, CA; Jonathan and wife Tammie Smith of Ft. Bragg; Jody and spouse Eddie Ito of Las Vegas, NV; Jason and spouse Melissa Smith of Louisville, KY; 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; one sibling Evelyn Gillespie of Ft. Bragg, CA. He was preceded by his parents, Grover and Lois; one brother Richard and three sisters Bernice, Sibyl and Alice.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be sent to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, Inc. to aid research at LBDA, P.O. Box 451429, Atlanta, Georgia 31145-9429.

Sports

Golf tourney in memory of Dr. Roberts 

Plans are coming together for the first Dr. Roberts' Fund Golf Tournament to be held on Sept. 7 at the Likely Place Golf Course. A $10,000 prize for a hole in one is being offered by Les Schwab. Each hole will be sponsored by an individual, business or corporation. The Golf Tournament is being sponsored by the Dr. Roberts Surprise Valley Hospital Emergency Fund, Inc. Details of the event will be forthcoming.

Dr. Roberts was a colorful and much beloved physician throughout Modoc County. She practiced in Surprise Valley for 21 years, seeing patients until just a few days before her death last Nov. Little known to the general public, she was also a major benefactor to the hospital.

Surprise Valley Hospital exists primarily because of the generosity of the people of Surprise Valley through a self-voted tax and contributions from inside and out of the area.

"Although Dr. Roberts can never be replaced in any real sense, we are establishing a fund in her memory that will help to keep our hospital viable during fiscal emergencies," said Bill Benner, member of the fund's board.

Due to the small size of the rural community served by the hospital, combined with the poor economy of the area, keeping the hospital's doors open is a constant challenge.

"We don't have deep pockets and our governor has made it clear we are on our own concerning the upcoming cuts in MediCal and MediCare reimbursements. The payments for these services already given are essential to our staying open. This fund will help us through the hard times," said Wanda Grove, Surprise Valley Hospital Administrator.

The Dr. Roberts fund has just received its tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3). This means that any contributions made to this fund are tax deductible.

Donations of any amount will be gratefully accepted and annual dues for membership in the Dr. Roberts Fund is $100 per person, $500 for individual sponsorship, $1,000 for corporate sponsors or $10,000 to become a lifetime associate member with no annual dues.

"Our intention is to have an annual appreciation dinner for all our fund members and we are always open to suggestions on ways to raise money to keep our hospital open," adds Benner.

Questions and further information may be obtained by calling the Surprise Valley Hospital at 530-279-6111 or any board member including Wanda Grove, Joyce Gysin, Gae Quigley, Mike Whalen, Gary Odgers, Linda Schultz or Bill Benner. Also a website: www.drrobertsfund.org is being developed to explain the life of Dr. Roberts and the fund formed in her memory..

Golf tourney results

The results of the Arrowhead Junior Golf League are as follows.

In the 11-to-12 year old group, Jonathan Morgan was first, Matt Weber was second and Rylee Pedotti was third.

In the 13-14 group, the winner was Bradley Widby, with Trent McQuarrie second, and Alex McQuarrie third.

Drew Morgan was the winner in the 15-16 group, with Nathan Juanarena second and Justin Lee third.
In the Elks Tournament, the winners were Dean Winfree and Elmer Winfree, with Marty Yamagiwa and Steve Riley taking second. Danny Parker and Bradley Widby tied for third with Kyle and Keith Weber.

MHS athletes need physicals

Modoc High School Athletic Director and football coach Shaun Wood reminds athletes to get their physicals and sports information cards completed before the start of practice.

Modoc High School fall sports include football, volleyball, cross-country and soccer. Football practice will start August 11.

Physical forms are available at the Modoc Joint Unified School District Office on Fourth Street. Modoc Medical center also has forms available.

July 24th 2008

News

Secure Rural Schools funding not dead yet

The possibility of a resuscitation of the Secure Rural Schools and Communities Act remains in the works, prompting local officials to think there is some hope it will breathe again.

Modoc Land Use Analyst Sean Curtis said there is a lot of activity concerning the issue, especially as it relates to an emergency funding bill concerning the Midwest floods and California wildfires. That is one of five options listed in a briefing this week from Bob Douglas, Executive Director of the National Forest Counties and Schools Coalition.

Modoc County Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones believes that of the five options, the emergency flooding and fire bill and another dealing with a second economic stimulus package have the best chances of passing.

"I know there is talk of a multi-year funding package, but I'm thinking it's more realistic to plan for a one-year extension," said Jones Tuesday.

The five options on the table in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate vary greatly.

Fire restrictions begin on Modoc NF Friday

Vegetation on the Modoc National Forest is drying and wildfire risk is increasing. As a result, the Forest will enter fire restrictions, Fri., July 25. These restrictions included campfire use, off-road driving and smoking outside of designated recreation areas.

(If you are unsure if your favorite site is a "Designated Recreation Site," call or visit a forest office.) The South Warner Wilderness Area and the Big Sage Fire Management Unit are exempt from the restrictions.

Road management plan has changes

During scoping for the Travel Management Plan, the Modoc National Forest received additional information that led to two changes to the proposed action that was published in the Federal Register, May 12. Because of these changes, the scoping period will be extended to August 8.

The proposed changes are:

Propose closing 3.12 miles of road to off highway vehicle use from Glass Mountain Pumice Mine to County Road 97. Roads 44N08, 44N72Y, 44A018 and 77N01 are used by high volume of heavy trucks and are not safe for OHV use.

Proposing removal of the seasonal closure for bald eagle winter roost along system roads 44A19D, 44A19C, 44N19, ffN20 and 44N04Y. These roads have been open to public use with no discernable disturbance to the bald eagles during their wintering period.

New hospital grant moving forward

While the actual funding has not gone through the entire approval process, the Modoc Frontier Healthcare Coalition remains positive that the $300,000 planning grant to build a new hospital in Alturas will be approved.

Jerry Smith, representing the coalition, which includes the County of Modoc, City of Alturas, Pit River Nation and Cedarville Rancheria, said his conversations with U.S. Senate and Congressional representatives this week have been encouraging.

He said the U.S. House of Representatives committee has approved the initial $300,000 grant, and there is an effort in the Senate to add another $200,000. Once the two houses come together with an allocation, it should be funded.

Obituaries:

Sandra S. Wingate

Sandra S. Wingate passed away at her home in Alturas, CA on July 21, 2008 from Cancer. Mrs. Wingate was born November 6, 1943, in Burbank, CA.

Mrs. Wingate and her Husband Gary Wingate have been married for 49 years and have been residents of Modoc County since 1979, where Sandra worked as a waitress for 24 years.
Private services will be held at a later date.

Alice (McGarva) Hicks

Alice Isabella Hicks, 89, passed away at her home in Cedarville, CA on July 18, 2008. Born Alice McGarva in Oakland, CA on January 13, 1919, Mrs. Hicks was a long-time Modoc resident who took an active role in her community.

Her family will announce a memorial service at a future date. Kerr Mortuary is handling arrangements. Mrs. Hicks' obituary and services will be published in a future issue.

Larry E. Musfelt

Larry E. Musfelt was born on July 4,1948 in Mercedes, Texas. He served in U.S. Navy from 1965 to 1973, when he was honorably discharged. He died on July 13, 2008 at the VA Hospital in Spokane, Washington.

Community Cremation Services of Spokane, Washington handled arrangements. Condolences may be emailed to Mr. Musfelt's family at judyehaslett@yahoo.com.

Virginia Kelley

A graveside service for Virginia Kelley, long time resident of Modoc County, will be held at the Alturas Cemetery on Friday, August 1 at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, the family invites everyone to California Pines for lunch and a time of remembrance.
Mrs. Kelley passed away in Texas on May 14, 2008.

Flora June Lord

A graveside inurnment for Flora June Lord will take place with family and friends welcome on Saturday, August 2 at 10:30 a.m. at the Likely Cemetery. June was born in 1916 in Likely, CA. and was the last surviving child of Will and Gladys Flournoy.
Mrs. Lord died January 19, 2008 in Redding, CA. She was 92. Her inurnment will be with her late husband Philip B. Lord at the Likely Cemetery.

Sports

Youth hoops camp August 11-13

The Sunrise Rotary Club of Alturas is sponsoring its inaugural Youth Basketball Camp August 11-13 at the Griswold Gym.

The camp is open to all players, boys and girls grades four through 12. The fee is $25, which includes camp registration and a T-shirt. Modoc High varsity girls coach Bill Hall is running the camp with assistance from coaches and players.

The camp will start each night at 5 p.m. and run until 8 p.m. For more information call Hall at 530-233-6333 or 530-233-5807.

MHS athletes need physicals

Modoc High School Athletic Director and football coach Shaun Wood reminds athletes to get their physicals and sports information cards completed before the start of practice.

Modoc High School fall sports include football, volleyball, cross-country and soccer. Football practice will start August 11.

Physical forms are available at the Modoc Joint Unified School District Office on Fourth Street. Modoc Medical center also has forms available.

July 31, 2008

News

MMC does very well in CAH survey

Modoc Medical Center in Alturas performed very well in the Joint Commission for Critical Access Hospital survey the first of this week; boosting optimism that certification is probable.

According to Interim Hospital Chief Executive Officer Jim Sato, this portion of the survey dealt with patient care and the final portion will be the plant engineer from the Joint Commission, who will inspect the facility. He expects that survey to be completed in the not-too-distant future.

Burglars, vandals hit Modoc Middle School

Burglars and vandals caused up to $100,000 in damages to Modoc Middle School late Monday or early Tuesday morning.

According to Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes, the damage was extensive to several classrooms and offices, the library and $350 in cash was stolen from a safe in the Principal's office.

Woman dies in US 395 rollover

A Las Vegas woman died from injuries sustained in a single vehicle rollover July 23, 10:10 a.m. on U.S. 395 south of Antelope Road on the Madeline Plains.

According to the California Highway Patrol, Jill Miller, age 52, of Las Vegas, was driving a 2008 Buick northbound when for unknown reasons, the car left the left side of the highway and rolled.
A passenger in the car, Jeanine Halk, age 39, Las Vegas, was resting in the back seat and not wearing a seatbelt. She was ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries.

Perlite loading facility at Mill moves forward

The plan to have Cornerstone Industrial Minerals, of Lakeview, truck its Perlite to the Alturas Mill siding for loading onto train cars heading to Klamath Falls is moving forward quickly.
According to Alturas Mayor John Dederick, the project could be in operation by October, barring any major setbacks.

Obituaries:

Alice Hicks

Alice Isabella Hicks died Friday, July 18, 2008, at her home in Cedarville, CA where she lived close to family since the death of her husband in 1985.

A Memorial Dinner in remembrance of Alice will be held at the Cedarville Fairgrounds Saturday, August 2 at 1:00 p.m.; potluck welcomed; main dish will be provided.

Rose Weatherholt

Rose Weatherholt 90, died as she lived, in peace and love, on Saturday, July 19, 2008 in Tucson, Arizona. Born Rose Clarice Rider on September 13, 1917 in Alturas. In memoriam, please make a donation to Arizona Blind and Deaf Children's Foundation, 3957 E. Speedway, Tucson, AZ 85712, or to a charity of your choice.

Flora June Lord

A graveside inurnment for Flora June Lord will take place with family and friends welcome on Saturday, August 2 at 10:30 a.m. at the Likely Cemetery. June was born in 1916 in Likely, CA.
Mrs. Lord died January 19, 2008 in Redding, CA. She was 92.

Service for Virginia Kelley

A graveside service for Virginia Kelley, long time resident of Modoc County, will be held at the Alturas Cemetery on Friday, August 1 at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, the family invites everyone to California Pines for lunch and a time of remembrance.

Sports

MHS athletes need physicals

Modoc High School Athletic Director and football coach Shaun Wood reminds athletes to get their physicals and sports information cards completed before the start of practice.

Modoc High School fall sports include football, volleyball, cross-country and soccer. Football practice will start August 11.

According to MHS Volleyball coach Harold Montague, volleyball practice/try-outs will begin August 12, 6 p.m. for the varsity team and Monday August 18, 4 p.m. for the junior varsity squad. All participants must have their physicals completed before the first day of practice.

Physical forms are available at the Modoc Joint Unified School District Office on Fourth Street. Modoc Medical center also has forms available.

August 7, 2008

News

Board supports Hospital District application

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday voted 4-1 in favor of a resolution for initiating procedures for the establishment of a Sphere of Influence and formation of a Health Care District for Modoc Medical Center.

The Board adopted the resolution of which now allows the Save Our Hospital Committee to present its application to the Local Agency Formation Commission, LAFCO.

Juvenile boys arrested in Middle School vandalism

Alturas Police arrested two juvenile males alleging they caused up to $100,000 in damages to Modoc Middle School last week. Police made the first arrests within 72 hours of discovering the crime.

Chief of Police Ken Barnes said the two were students or former students at MMS and were age 14 or younger. Police are still investigating the crime and have not ruled out additional arrests.

Half-cent sale tax will go on ballot

The Alturas City Council approved a resolution that will place approval of a half-cent sales tax issue on the November 4 General Election ballot.

The measure is designed to use the half-cent increase in sales tax for public safety purposes, providing funds for law enforcement and fire protection.

The issue will require a two-thirds majority of City voters who cast ballots in the election for it to pass.

Lightning causes small fires

Monday evening's thunderstorms caused a total of 17 lightning-caused fires on the Modoc National Forest, the largest being contained to one-quarter acre.

The storms did produce some moisture on the forest and thunderstorms are predicted through August 8. The MNF remains under strict fire restrictions.

Fire fighting resources on the forest include eight MNF engines, one U.S. Fish and Wildlife engine, five contract engines, one task force of engines from Region 3, and two contract, 20-person hand crews.

Obituaries:

Tom Boyle

Leon (Tom) Boyle passed away while in the company of his loved ones in Redding, California on July 28, 2008, at the age of 83. Tom was born June 7, 1925 in Woonsocket, R.I., to Arthur Homer Boyle (1894-1931) and Ida Arlene Pickering Boyle (1896-1962). As a boy growing up in Massachusetts, he enjoyed sports and the outdoors - activities he would continue to enjoy throughout his life.

At his request, no services will be held, but there will be a memorial service at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the American Heart Association.

Pearl Minard

E. "Pearl" Hagerman Minard, who grew up in Alturas, passed away in Bellflower, CA on January 6, 2008. She was 84 years and three months and had remained active until the end, described her daughter Karen.

Born to Elizabeth and John Hagerman on October 8, 1923 in Newcastle, Indiana, "Pearl" was seven when she moved to Alturas, CA. Alturas Inurnment was private at Alturas Cemetery on August 4 at 2 p.m. Condolences may be sent to Karen Minard, 128 Rainbow Dr. #2815, Livingston, TX 77399.

Sports

MHS Soccer falls victim to budget

Chalk up Modoc High School Soccer as a victim of the budget crunch.

Soccer will not be brought back as a part of the 2008 Fall Sports season, primarily because of its $7,500 annual cost and transportation issues.
Soccer was canceled last season because of a lack of players.

August 14, 2008

News

LAFCO waives SOH fee

The Modoc County Local Agency Formation Commission, LAFCO, voted 5-0 Tuesday evening to waive the $5,000 application fee for the Save Our Hospital Committee.

Previously, the Commission had voted 3-2 not to waive the fee and the issue was brought back for reconsideration.

SOH will present its application to establish a hospital district encompassing the service area of Modoc Medical Center to LAFCO, who has the responsibility to approve new special districts.

Charter school takes huge hit

The embattled Modoc Charter School will take a huge enrollment hit for the coming year, as over 265 Shasta County students will move into an Independent Study program in that county.

Considering the average daily attendance funds amount to around $5,000 per student in California, Shasta County stands to pick up over $1.3 million. The Charter School had about 450 students.
Modoc County Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones said the full impact on the Charter School as well as the districts and the County's Special Education programs remains unclear this week, but solid numbers should be forthcoming soon.

Modoc Fair opens Aug. 21

The Modoc District Fair in Cedarville officially opens at 5 p.m., August 21 and has four full days of activity. The Fair Parade will be August 24 at starting at 11 a.m.

While every day of the 75th Modoc District Fair promises fun, there will be a non-stop line-up of activities geared toward the county's youngsters on "Kid's Day." So plan to bring the whole family on Friday, August 22.

The Fair opens Friday at 12:00 noon. Admission is $3 for children, $2 for seniors and $5 for adults. Everyone will enter for free between noon and 1:00 p.m.

Bring your earplugs to the Modoc District Fair on Saturday, August 23 because when the countdown ends the noise will begin as the 5th Annual Demolition Derby gets underway!

Obituaries:

Norine Winn

Norine Boyd Winn was born in Alturas, CA on August 23, 1929 She passed away on August 4, 2008, at the age of 78 in Walnut Creek, CA. She was preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband.

Memorials may be directed to Toys For Tots, (National headquarters) P.O. Box 227, Quantico, VA 22134 or to any local chapter. See www.Toys For Tots.org. Kerr Mortuary handled arrangements.

Terry R Williams

Formerly of Redding, Terry R. Williams died on August 2, 2008 in Medford, Oregon.
Born in Soda Springs, Idaho on August 31, 1915 he lived in Redding for many years.

Josephine Forrest Rahn

A Memorial Service for Josephine Forrest Rahn of Modesto, CA, wife of the late pastor Andrew Rahn, will be held Friday, August 22, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the Brush Arbor, 7 miles north on Highway 395, just outside Alturas, CA. Friends and relatives are invited. Brush Arbor Fellowship Services will begin immediately following. Please contact Norman Forrest at (530) 233-5930 for further details or information.

Sports

Modoc football starts practice

Modoc football team started practice this week and coach Shaun Wood likes what he sees so far.
Wood comes back with some exceptional returning players, and while he thought his line could be the big question mark, early on that question seems to be answered is a positive vein.

Wood said there are 21 players out for the varsity team with a couple more expected to come out and 25 players are on the junior varsity squad.

Modoc enters a newly revamped Shasta Cascade League this season with newcomers Los Molinos and Chester added to Burney, Fall River, Weed, and Etna. Gone are Mt. Shasta and Trinity. The new configuration makes Modoc the biggest school in the league.

The team opens play with a scrimmage against Tulelake in Alturas the afternoon of Aug. 21, and has Mt. Shasta in a non-league contest here August 29. League play will start at Burney Sept. 26.

Wood expected his team to be favored in the SCL this year and nothing he’s seen so far this week has dissuaded that belief.

Modoc Volleyball will open Sept. 6 at the Henley Tournament under new coach (returning) Harold Montague while Cross Country under new coach Wendi Lowrey opens Sept. 6 at Yreka. MHS canceled this year’s soccer program.

Team wins Arrowhead tourney

The team of Beth Weber, Susan Gibbons, Cheryl Knoch and Erin Bevil won the Alturas Ladies Club 2008 tournament last weekend.

There were two teams tied for second place, those of Pat Kerr, Lesley Chace, Jean Phillips and Ann Rix and the team of Sheila McKenzie, Jeanne Cain, Linda Metzdorf, Rose Boulade and Pat Crenshaw.

The horse race winners were McKenzie and Lynn McClellan and Kerr and Chace placed second.
Bevil won the long drive contest for first flight, Boulade for second flight and Wendy Bailey for the third flight. Phillips won the closest to the pin contest.

MHS increases gate, season passes

Modoc High School has increased gate and pass prices to athletic events for the coming year.

These passes entitle the bearer to attend all home athletic events during the 2008-2009 athletic season. These passes do not include admission to tournaments or playoff games. The prices are as follows; family pass, $ 75; couple pass, $50; senior pass, $20; single, $35. Football parking is $35. Gate Prices; Adults or students without ASB card, $5; visiting student with ASB card, $4; senior citizens (60 and up) $4; booster club members, $4; unaccompanied child under age 12, $9.00.

August 21, 2008

News

Modoc Charter School hit is devastating, costly

The enrollment exodus at Modoc Charter School is worse -- much worse -- than reported last week, and will impact the County School's Office fund as well as districts if not turned around.

Last week, the estimate was that about 265 students would be leaving the school. This week that number has ballooned to a loss of 350, with more possible. That could leave just about 100 students remaining from last year's 450 total.

Almost all of those lost students are from Shasta County, and they will enter an Independent Study program there. Figuring about $5,000 per student that amounts to $1.75 million in Average Daily Attendance funds heading to the Shasta Schools.

Arson suspected in Thoms Creek fire

California Department of Forestry arson investigators are looking into a structure fire that destroyed a home and outbuildings in Thoms Creek Estates the evening of August 15.

According to reports, the structures belonging to Stacey Jarvis were fully engulfed when firefighters arrived. Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the lot and buildings. A helicopter and a fixed wing aircraft were called in to assist the Alturas Rural Fire Department, the Alturas Rancheria OES Fire Department and California Department of Forestry.

Jarvis had reported to Sheriff's Deputies that an acquaintance had threatened to burn down her house.

Modoc Fair opens today in Cedarville

At 5:00 tonight, the gates of the 2008 Modoc District Fair will swing open to admit everyone to four exciting days of entertainment, including live music and magic shows, rodeos, rancher's day and livestock competitions, the thrills of a first-rate carnival and exhibit halls filled to overflowing with the very best the folks of Modoc County have to offer.

From August 21 through 24, everyone is invited to commemorate this county's historic journey as the theme "Wheelin' From the Past Toward the Future" lends itself to celebrating the Western roots and agricultural heritage of this far corner of California.

The fair opens at noon on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Miss Modoc Fair Queen 2008 Rachel Torres and Princess Raelea Vickerman will be on hand to greet people on opening day and throughout the run of the fair.

General admission is $5. Seniors 60 and over pay only $2, and children 4-12 are $3. On Thursday, everyone gets in for only $2 and admission is free for all each day during the first hour the gates are open. Parking is free with spaces for everyone just outside the fairground entrance on Center Street in Cedarville.

Jack Fire burns on Lava Beds

A lightning strike Sunday evening sparked a blaze that has grown to 6,900 acres. The fire started on the Lava Beds National Monument and has also burned vegetation on the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

The Monument was closed and evacuated on Monday, however residents were allowed to return home today.

The Hill Road and North East entrance to the Monument near Hospital Rock remain closed; however, the South entrance to the Lava Beds is open. Visitors may enter the Monument on Forest Road 10 from State Road 97 in the Tionesta area. The visitor center is open and staffed during normal business hours.

Obituaries:

Robert Rhodes

Services are scheduled for 11 a.m., August 23, 2008 at the Adin Community Church, in Adin for Robert Gladney "Bob" Rhodes. Pastor Ryan Harper from the Adin Community Church will officiate. Private inurnment is planned at the Adin Cemetery.

Mr. Rhodes died August 12, 2008 at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, CA after coming down with a sudden, rare blood disease.

Sports

Braves meet Tulelake in scrimmage tonight

Modoc's Braves will scrimmage the Tulelake Honkers tonight, beginning at 4:30 p.m. at Ed Carver Stadium.

It's a first real test for either team and coaches Shaun Wood of Modoc and brother Shane Wood of Tulelake will be taking a look at all the players in a game-like situation. Both varsity and junior varsity will participate.

The Braves come into this season with plenty of talent but not a lot of numbers. Just 21 players are out for the varsity and a healthy 29 have put on the junior varsity pads.

Leading the way for the Braves will be quarterback Dee Hunsaker, who will have Justin Estes and Matt Mayes in the backfield to start. Wideouts will be Ty Dowdy, Uly Gonzalez with the Z back split of Kyle Voth and David Potter.

Holding down the tight end spot will be Josh Wood and Ethan Bonham is slated to play at various spots. Jack Callaghan will back up at quarterback. Alex Moreo and Arlen Gonzales and Andrew Marske will see time at running back.

Anchoring the line at center will be Miguel Torres, with Tyler Wood and Christian Gonzales at guard and Ryan Vanderheyen and Chris McMasters at tackle. Ivan Mendoza will also play tackle and Chad Harris is at guard.

Wood will be primarily concentrating on the offense during this scrimmage and looking at how each player performs.

Fair softball tourney opens 21st year

This weekend marks the 21st year fast-pitch softball teams have gathered at the Modoc District Fair to participate in the Men's Invitational Softball Tournament. The first batter will be stepping up to the plate Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. and the final championship game is expected to start at about 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. "The basic tournament will be familiar to all our players and to everyone who has enjoyed watching from the bleachers over the years", said coordinator Ernie Givan of Alturas. "We've gone back to the double-elimination format so there will be a total of 16 or 17 games.”

Junior, women's hunt in Ash Creek

The Pit River Rod and Gun Club and the California Department of Fish and Game are sponsoring an apprentice pheasant hunt for juniors Sept. 13 and an apprentice pheasant hunt for women Sept. 14 at Ash Creek Wildlife Area in Big Valley.

The junior hunt is open to all currently licensed junior hunters accompanied by an adult and two hunts are offered: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The women's hunt will have just one hunt, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Women with current hunting licenses are eligible.

To apply hunters may go online at www.dfg.ca.gov/wildife/hunting/upland game, or contact Ash Creek Wildlife area or Adin Supply for an application.
All applications must be received in Sacramento by Sept. 1. Mail applications to DFG, GBH Special Hunts, 1812 9th Street, Sacramento Ca., 95811.
For more information call 530-294-5824.

August 28, 2008

News

Huge biker rally rolls into Tulelake this week

The Tulelake Butte Valley Fairgrounds will be the scene of a huge motorcycle rally this weekend, the "Shasta Salute to America."

According to local law enforcement sources, thousands of motorcyclists are expected to descend on Tulelake for four full days of celebration beginning Thursday and running through Monday.

Tickets are available at the gate. The event is adult only and admission is open to those people age 18 and over. A four day ticket is $125, a Thursday only ticket is $35, Friday $50, Saturday $50 and Sunday $40. The tickets include admission to all concerts and events of the day.

Area well behind on precipitation totals

The area is well behind normal precipitation totals for this time of year, with the past three months being very dry.

From January until August 28, Alturas has measured just 6.58 inches of moisture, well behind the average of 8.04 inches for the same period.

Obituaries:

Richard Carroll Henson, Jr. III.

Richard "Dick" Henson passed away on August 23, 2008 at the Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. Memorial services will be held at the family home in Alturas on Friday, August 29 at 11 a.m.
The family wishes in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the Modoc County Little League, SV Long Term Care or Warnerview Convalescent Home for continued improvements for the seniors.

Burnham J. Haley

Burnham J. ('Bernie' or 'BJ') Haley, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2008, at the age of 87, surrounded by his family.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Nicholas Church, in Los Altos, California.

Douglas Duff

Douglas (Doug) MacArthur Duff, 66, passed away on Saturday, August, 16, 2008 at his home in Fernley, NV. 

Respecting Doug's wishes, no services will be held.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to the American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, or the charity of your choice.

Leonard G. Royce

Former Alturas resident Leonard G. Royce of Jacksonville, OR, passed away Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at Rogue Valley Medical Center, Medford, OR.

Interment will be held with family members present at the V.A. Cemetery in Eagle Point on August 13.

 Sports

Braves open against Mt. Shasta Friday night

The Modoc Braves will officially open the 2008 football season against the Mt. Shasta Bears here Friday night in a non-league contest.

The Modoc junior varsity will start at 5:30 p.m. at the varsity game will follow at about 7:30 p.m.

Reservations required for Refuge Junior Waterfowl Hunt

Junior hunters will have the opportunity to hunt waterfowl at Modoc National Wildlife Refuge the weekend of September 27 and 28, 2008. Advance reservations are required and applications will be accepted through September 5, 2008. Only hunters possessing a valid California Juniors Hunting License may apply.

Junior hunters must be accompanied by a non-hunting adult (18 years or older) with no more than two junior hunters per adult. Submit a post card with name(s) and a complete address(s) for each junior hunter specify "JR WATERFOWL HUNT" on the card. Parent or legal guardian must sign card for each applicant. Mail or deliver to Modoc National Wildlife Refuge, PO Box 1610, Alturas, CA 96101 or hand deliver to Modoc National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters, 5364 County Road 115, Alturas, CA. Drawing will be held on September 9, 2008, successful applicants will be notified by mail. Hunters may contact the refuge at the above address, call (530) 233-3572, or visit www.fws.gov/modoc/ for further information.

Junior, women's hunt in Ash Creek

The Pit River Rod and Gun Club and the California Department of Fish and Game are sponsoring an apprentice pheasant hunt for juniors Sept. 13 and an apprentice pheasant hunt for women Sept. 14 at Ash Creek Wildlife Area in Big Valley.

The junior hunt is open to all currently licensed junior hunters accompanied by an adult and two hunts are offered: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The women's hunt will have just one hunt, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Women with current hunting licenses are eligible.

To apply hunters may go online at www.dfg.ca.gov/wildife/hunting/upland game, or contact Ash Creek Wildlife area or Adin Supply for an application.

All applications must be received in Sacramento by Sept. 1. Mail applications to DFG, GBH Special Hunts, 1812 9th Street, Sacramento Ca., 95811.
For more information call 530-294-5824.

September 4, 2008

News

County avoids layoffs in proposed budget

Modoc County Chief Administrative Officer Mike Maxwell said the proposed budget will be able to avoid layoffs again this year unless "the state does something really stupid."

And with the current state government, he's not ruling out stupid.

As it stands this week the state has still not adopted its budget, with both sides continuing to bicker.

Food Bank needs help

The shelves are looking bare at the Modoc Emergency Food, which is in need of community support at this time.

With California's state budget in limbo and no state budget having been passed, the community food bank center is feeling the fall out and is running out of food, with no funding to make further purchases

Fire restrictions remain in place

With school back in session, it's beginning to feel like fall. But in northeast California's back country, conditions are at their driest point of the year, and restrictions on fire use remain in effect.
Officials at the Bureau of Land Management urge hunters and others who visit the back country to follow the restrictions and be extremely careful with fire.

Obituaries:

Sue Albertson

August 27, 2008, the Lord gathered another flower for the Master Bouquet. Sue Ellen Albertson, 62, was taken from her loved ones after putting up a tough fight with a very lengthy illness. Her last days were spent in Renown Hospital in Reno, NV, surrounded by friends and family.

Douglas Hines

Former Alturas resident Douglas Wayne Hines of Midvale, Idaho, passed away August 22, 2008, of natural causes in Idaho, at the age of 49. Mr. Hines had spent 15 years in Modoc County, ranching in Eagleville and Alturas. He left nine years ago when he relocated to Idaho where he was ranching.

Sports

 

Braves whip Bears 33-13, host fast Lakeview team Friday

Modoc's Braves used a solid second half to beat the Mt. Shasta bears 33-13 Friday night the season opener.

This week a very fast and solid Lakeview Honker squad will invade Carver Stadium in Alturas the week, with coach Shaun Wood expecting a tough game.

JVs lose tough one to Bears

Modoc's Junior Varsity football team lost a tough opening game to the Mt. Shasta Bears Friday night 19-6 in Alturas.

Refuge hosts hunt meeting

The Modoc National Wildlife Refuge has scheduled a meeting of the Hunt Working Group Sept. 24, 5 p.m. at the Refuge headquarters office.
Everyone is invited to discuss issues, ask questions or voice concerns about the refuge hunting program. For more information, please call 530-233-3572.

September 11 , 2008

News

Board hires new hospital CEO

The Modoc County Board of Supervised hired Walter Beck as the new Modoc Medical Center Chief Executive Officer at its Tuesday meeting. There were four candidate interviewed for the position.
Beck comes to Modoc from Mee Memorial Hospital in King City, Ca., which went from a 42-bed facility to a 120-bed facility during his 12-year tenure as its CEO.

He has worked in rural health care for the past 16 years and is familiar with the challenges and issues facing rural health throughout the state. He sees similarities between Mee Memorial and Modoc Medial, although the area he left was growing faster.

Hospital debt goes up to $12 million

Modoc Medical Center's debt to Modoc County went up $470,292 at the end of August to $12,065,214 from $11,594,922. While the debt is staggering, the impact of the state's holding back

MediCal reimbursements was a driving force.
According to interim hospital administrator Jim Sato, the fact that the state has withheld the MediCal funds is significant. He reports that since July 1, the state owes the hospital about $850,000. He said some $600,000 of that was for the month of August.

Bairds donate land for new hospital

The Baird Family Trust has agreed to donate the land for a new hospital in Alturas. That parcel would be to the north of Maxwell's Nursery off West C Street between Fourth and Eighth Street.
Bob and Dawn Baird said the land would be donated through the Last Frontier Healthcare Coalition, in a size that will accommodate the new hospital.

Chili, fun spice up Amphitheater event

Hot chili will be spiced up with fun activities for all ages, plus live entertainment and hot off the grill hamburgers and hotdogs from noon to 6 p.m. at the annual Chili Cook-Off at Modoc High Country Amphitheater this Saturday, September 13. The Amphitheater is located past the Alturas Airport on West Fourth Street, Alturas. Admission is $5 per person and includes chili tasting at 5:30 p.m., after judges determine the winning chilis.

Balloonfest soars this weekend

Look to the skies in the morning hours this Friday, Saturday and Sunday for the colorful hot air balloons as they float across Alturas for the Alturas Chamber of Commerce annual Balloonfest, Sept. 12, 13 and 14.

Some 11 balloons are expected to arrive with their owners for the weekend event, before making their way to the Montague Balloonfest, near Yreka. Balloonists will be traveling to Alturas from Reno, NV, San Ramon, CA, Grants Pass, OR and from throughout California.

Obituaries:

Gertrude Marie Gerig


Longtime Bieber resident Gertrude Marie Gerig, 93, passed away September 8, 2008 at her home in Bieber, CA following a brief illness. Memorial Services are pending, possibly for October. Kerr Mortuary will be handling arrangements. Mrs. Gerig was born Gertrude Jackson in Oregon.

Sports

Braves stun Lakeview 41-13, Lost River next

The Modoc Braves stunned a good Lakeview Honkers team Friday night 41-13 for their second straight win at home.

Modoc meets Lost River this Friday night and coach Shaun Wood is looking for a good game, although his Braves should be favored. Lost River lost to Etna 20-13 last week.

Braves open volleyball at Henley

Modoc's volleyball team opened the season at the Henley tournament last week, and went 0-4 in the early start.

Modoc lost to Lost River 19-25, 22-25; to Henley 2-25, 6-25; to Mazama 13-25, 18-25 and to Lakeview 21-25 and 18-25.

Lakeview tops JVs 20-0

The Lakeview Honkers shut out the Modoc Braves junior varsity football team 20-0 in the preliminary Friday night.
They face Lost River here Friday night.

Cross Country runs well

Modoc's Cross Country team ran well in the Fall River Invitational Tuesday, with Susanna Jones winning the varsity girls 4,000 meters race and Michel Funk placing third.

Austin Hoy placed seventh in the boy's varsity race and Willie Hamman was sixth. Coach Wendi Lowrey said Rachel Bratton, Lisa Orsbun and Otto Winkle all ran good races.

On Saturday, the team competed at the big Yreka Invitational. Jones placed 31st out of 90 girls in the varsity race, Funk placed 49th, Beth Colbert placed 79th and Rachel Bratton placed 88th.

Hoy placed 33rd in the junior varsity boy's race out of 109 runners. In the varsity race, Hamman was 94th, Kevin Richardson 107th and Winkle 110th.
Monique Lloyd place 73rd in the junior varsity girl's race.
Modoc heads to Mt. Shasta Sept. 19.

September 18, 2008

News

State budget still in flux, hospitals worry

The California State legislature passed a 2008-09 budget Tuesday, 78 days late, but it faced an immediate veto threat from Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, leaving the issue in flux.

Modoc County Chief Executive Officer Mike Maxwell said the budget version passed by the legislator looks to leave the county pretty much intact, but the devil may be in the details and what comes after a veto.

County tightens enforcement on farmer's markets

Modoc County Environmental Health Officer Warren Farnam has informed local Farmer's Markets and other such events that selling home-prepared food for profit is not allowed.

Farnam explained the rules to the Surprise Valley Farmer's Market and the Alturas Farmer's Markets Friday and Saturday, but didn't cite anyone or confiscate goods. His information was not greeted with complete understanding by the sellers, but he stresses the rules need to be enforced because of food safety issues.

Pot farm busted near Day

A large marijuana farm, located west of Day near the Siskiyou County line, was raided Sept. 11 and 3,591 marijuana plants were confiscated by law enforcement.

The raid resulted in the arrest of Ricardo Vidal-Navaro, age 39, of Yakima, Wa., who faces charges alleging cultivation and possession of marijuana for sale.

BLM RAC meets on resource management

Members of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Northeast California Resource Advisory Council will hear a comprehensive briefing on cultural resource management, when they meet Thursday and Friday, Sept. 18 and 19, at the BLM Alturas Field Office, 708 West 12th St., Alturas.

On Sept. 18, council members will meet at 10 a.m.at the BLM field office and depart immediately for a tour of public lands managed by the BLM Surprise Field Office in northwest Nevada.

Obituaries:

Doris Harris

Doris Jane Harris of Alturas passed away September 13, 2008, while stying with her daughter Cindy in Cave Junction, Oregon. She was born February 23, 1931 in Port Chicago, CA. She moved to Ft. Bidwell with her mother and two sisters when she was young and attended schools in the area.

Services will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Alturas on Saturday, Sept. 20 at 10 a.m. Graveside will follow at the Cedarville Cemetery. The family invites family and friends to join them at the Harris home on Lakeview Highway, following burial.

Chuck Vermillion

Lifetime Surprise Valley resident Charles (Chuck) Paul Vermillion passed away September 11, 2008, at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, CA. Chuck was born in Alturas, CA on March 20, 1939; he was the youngest of 12 children. The Modoc County School District moved Chuck's family of 12 to Fort Bidwell in 1939 to keep the Fort Bidwell School open. Chuck was only five days old and spent the rest of his entire life in Surprise Valley. Chuck attended both grade school and high school in Cedarville.

Graveside services will be held at the Lake City Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on Friday September 19th, 2008. A pot luck reception will follow at the Modoc Fairgrounds.

Memorial contributions may be made to Surprise Valley Health Care District, the Cedarville Fire Department or to Surprise Valley Community Church in Cedarville.

Robert Lyle Case

On Saturday, September 13, 2008, Robert Lyle Case went home to be with his Lord Jesus Christ. A memorial service in his honor will be held this Saturday, September 20, at the Alturas Baptist Church on Fourth Street. The service begins at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Mel Chasteen officiating.

Wade Bennett

Memorial Services for Wade Joseph Bennett of Alturas, will be conducted by Pastor Curtis Barber on Friday, September 19 at 9:30 a.m. at Church of Christ, 1450 N. Warner St., Alturas. Mr. Bennett passed away in Alturas, CA on September 15 at the age of 37.

Sports

 

Braves crush Raiders, have bye this week

Modoc's Braves crushed the Lost River Raiders 42-7 Friday night in Alturas and will take the next week off sitting on a perfect 3-0 mark for the preseason. Modoc travels to Burney Sept. 26 to open the Shasta Cascade League loop.

Modoc is favored for the SCL title, and will probably face their toughest test Oct. 3 when the Fall River Bulldogs invade Alturas. The Braves were the only SCL team to win this week with the following results: Portola 35-Fall River 6; Mercy 20-Weed 16; Biggs 24-Los Molinos 14; University Prep 10-Burney 7; Bonanza 12-Etna 6.

JVs whip Raiders 26-14

The Modoc junior varsity football team got into the win column Friday night with a 26-14 effort against Lost River.

September 25th, 2008

News

Senate passes secure schools package, now in house

The U.S. Senate passed the Tax Extender package this week, which includes a four-year extension of the Secure Rural Schools and Communities Act. The issue now moves to the House of Representatives.

Sean Curtis, Modoc Land Use Analyst was in Washington, D.C. recently to help lobby for the passage of the SRSCA, and said there was some visible support to get it passed this session, but he also cautioned the current financial mess and projected $700 billion Wall Street bailout could impact other legislation.

Modoc school test scores vary

Modoc school test results varied, some good, some not so good, and some did very well according to the State Department of Education report.

On the good side, Stateline Elementary maintained its high status with a 2008 Academic Performance Index (API) score of 859, well above the state performance target of 800 and 30 points above last year's score of 829.

Surprise Valley High School hit the 800 point goal, raising its 2007 score by 66 points. Surprise Valley Elementary School scored 811, above the 800 target, but 17 points behind last year's score of 828.

1st West Nile bird found for 2008

Modoc County Public Health Department has been notified of its first West Nile Virus infected bird of 2008. The bird was picked up in Cedarville. WNV is not spread person-to-person, but is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Obituaries:

Paul Clifton Crawford

Paul Clifton Crawford, 55, collapsed while working last Saturday and passed away at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA on September 20, 2008. A brain aneurism was determined to be cause of death.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. at the Seventh Day Adventist Church of Alturas, 300 West Second St., Alturas. Pastor Bruce Blum will conduct the service. Refreshments to follow.

Anne S. Merrihew

Former Alturas resident Anne S. Merrihew passed away September 17, 2008 at the age of 95 in Redding, CA. Pastor Rod Bodmer conducted services at Kerr Chapel in Alturas at 2 p.m. on Sept. 20 with burial at the Alturas Cemetery.

Nancy JoAnn Philpott

A memorial graveside service for Nancy JoAnn Philpott of Alturas will be held Friday, Sept. 26, 2008, at 2 p.m. at the Alturas Cemetery. Mrs. Philpott, 48, passed away unexpectedly on September 21, 2008, in Alturas, CA.

Leo E. DuMilieu

Leo E. DuMilieu, 81, passed away in Lakeview on Friday, Sept. 12, 2008 after a long illness.
The funeral service was held Sept. 18, at the Lakeview First Baptist Church with the committal in the Westside Cemetery. A potluck was served in the Westside Grange following the committal. Desert Rose Funeral Chapel handled arrangements.

David Hollesen

David Hollesen was born in Fresno, CA to George and Lidamae Hollesen on October 29, 1943. He passed away at his home in Fresno CA on Friday, September 12, 2008.

A Memorial service was held at the Shrine of St. Therese Catholic Church in Fresno on Wednesday, September 17, at 10:00 a.m. A private family burial service was held at Clovis Cemetery in Clovis, CA on Wednesday, Sept. 12 with full military honors.

Sports

Modoc opens SCL at Burney Friday night

Modoc's Braves open the 2008 version of the Shasta Cascade League Friday night in Burney against an improved Raider team. Perhaps not improved enough to beat the Braves, however.

While no football game is a "gimme" the Braves' biggest challenge this Friday could be succumbing to overconfidence. The Burney game should be a good tune-up for what promises to be the Braves' biggest challenge in the SCL Oct. 3 when Fall River's Bulldogs come to Alturas.

Modoc volleyball struggle, improved

Modoc's varsity volleyball team has started out the season on a rocky note, but coach Harold Montague said he is seeing improvements.

The Braves finished third in their home tourney last weekend, winning two matches and losing two. Portola won the event with a 4-0 record, Westwood was 3-1, Modoc 2-2, Herlong 1-3 and Surprise Valley 0-4.

They lost the first Shasta Cascade League match to Mt. Shasta Tuesday, 18-25, 16-5, 26-24 and 19-25. That puts them 0-1 in league and 2-9-2 overall in the young season.

Results for local PP&K event

The following are the results for the Sunday's local Punt Pass and Kick competition:

8-9 girls: 1st Hailey Valena, 2nd Esther Kent, 3rd Payne Capilli

8-9 boys: 1st Jeremiah Brownlow, 2nd Eric VanAcker, 3rd Josh Vierria

10-11 girls:1st Melissa Knoch, 2nd Melissa Torres

10-11 boys: 1st Alex Valencia, 2nd Alan Weber, 3rd Troy Culp

12-13 girls: 1st Tamra Wheeler, 2nd Morgan Bagwell, 3rd Felicia Torres

12-13 boys: 1st Alex Torres, 2nd Austin Kresge, 3rd Riley Larranaga

14-15 girls: 1st Cheyenne King, 2nd Dorothy Long, 3rd Chassie Barkdull

14-15 boys: 1st Jalen Estes, 2nd Austin Carreker, 3rd James Alexander

October 2 , 2008

News

Eagle Lake leaking through Bly Tunnel?

When is a plug not a plug? When is a leak not a leak? Those are questions that Eagle Lake residents are asking of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) about the Bly Tunnel.

Two years ago when Rudy Whitmer bought property in Spalding, he began hearing rumors about water being siphoned off Eagle Lake through an abandoned tunnel, aggravating the damaging effects of the present drought. A retired college professor for 39 years and avid fisherman, Whitmer decided to discover why his favorite fishing spot was vanishing before his eyes. "I'm tired of these rumors," he said to himself. "I'm going to go find out."

After many hours of research, several meetings with state and federal officials as well as trips around and into the tunnel, Rudy and his wife, Louise, have the answers they went searching for. They discovered that water is flowing freely through the smaller of the two pipes in the concrete plug, further drawing down an already drought-stricken lake.

Haralson trial set for January 5

The homicide trial of Robert Chad Haralson, age 32, the suspect in the 1992 murder of Betty Lou Parks, has been set for January 5 in Modoc Superior Court.

The trial is expected to last three weeks. Haralson remains in custody in the Modoc County Jail. John Webster of Redding, is representing Haralson.

Sheriff investigates suspicious death in Newell

Modoc County Sheriff Mark Gentry has called in the California Department of Justice to help investigate a suspicious death in the Newell area.

While Gentry is not calling the case a homicide investigation, he said there are a lot of loose ends, including an autopsy this week, underway that need some serious examination.

According to Gentry, co-workers of David Joel Heaton, age 41, discovered his body the morning of Sept. 25 after he failed to show up for work

Senate rolling Secure Schools into bailout bill

The future of the Secure Rural Schools and Communities Act continues its roller-coaster ride this week, with no certainty, but some hope, in sight.

The U.S. Senate on Wednesday was rolling the Tax Extender Package into the financial service bailout bill. The version the Senate is considering would be a four-year extension of both the Rural Schools and Payment in Lieu of Taxes programs

State to restore Medi-Cal funding in November

The State of California will restore full Medi-Cal funding to small rural hospital in November, but the 10 percent cut until then will cost Modoc Medical Center about $350,000 of the Medi-Cal-owed $1.2 million.

New MMC Administrator Walter Beck said the new state budget doesn't impact small hospitals as negatively and some, including MMC, will be exempt from some of the state's budget axe.

Obituaries:


William Grove

William F. Grove, who was born in Eagleville and grew up in Surprise Valley, passed away last Saturday near the Tacoma, Washington vacation home he and his wife Harriet enjoyed in recent years.

An obituary will be printed in The Record soon, but the family has already scheduled a "Celebration of Life" memorial service for family and friends who remember Bill.

An afternoon of fellowship and remembrance, including a potluck meal, will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 11 in the Community Hall in Eagleville. Watch the Modoc Record for more information.

Paul Clifton Crawford

A Memorial Service for Paul Clifton Crawford, 55, of Alturas, will be held Friday, Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. at the Seventh Day Adventist Church of Alturas, 300 West Second St., Alturas. Pastor Bruce Blum will conduct the service. Refreshments to follow.

Mr. Crawford is survived by his wife Betty Lou of Alturas, CA; brother Tommy Crawford of Arkansas and a brother Charlie (whereabouts unknown). He was predeceased by his father, mother, sister and eldest brother. He also leaves nieces and nephews. Condolences and contributions may be sent to the family at 306 East Modoc Street, Alturas, CA 96101.

Sports

Modoc, Fall River square off Friday night in Alturas

The two powerhouses of the Shasta Cascade League football loop, Modoc and Fall River will square off Friday night at Ed Carver Stadium in Alturas. The junior varsity game starts at 5 p.m. and the varsity will follow at about 7 p.m.

The game should be what "Friday Night Lights" is all about - an intense high school rivalry that could decide the SCL champs.

Against Burney, Modoc led 6-0 in the first and by halftime held a 27-0 lead. The Braves led 33-0 in the third. Josh Wood added a 37-yard field goal in the fourth for 36. Fall Rivers scored seven in the fourth period.

Modoc falls to Etna

Modoc's varsity volleyball team lost to Etna in a lopsided contest Saturday 9-25, 11-25 and 17-25, making the Braves 0-2 in the Shasta Cascade League.

The Braves rebounded Tuesday to beat Weed 25-18, 25-11 and 25-18, putting them 1-2 in the SCL and 3-10-2 overall. They'll face a very strong Burney team tonight in Alturas.

Cross Country team improving, healing

Modoc's Cross Country team has been busy over the past two weeks, and individuals are improving and some recovering from injuries. The team heads to West Valley this Friday.

October 10, 2008

News

Secure Schools passes with bailout

The reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools & Communities Act and full funding of Payment in Lieu of Taxes, PILT, package was included in the $700 billion bail out package, which was passed by the House of Representatives and signed by the President last week.

"We breathed a sigh of relief," said Modoc Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones. "It was definitely good news for all of us. We don't know yet just how the calculations will work, but that should be clear soon." According to Jones, the funding will come for this year, and will actually be a near "windfall" for local districts who hadn't budgeted any Secure Schools funding.

MMC gets critical access designation

Last Friday, following a Joint Commission inspection, Modoc Medical Center received its long sought after Critical Access Hospital designation.

Chief Executive Office Walt Beck estimates the new designation, which means a higher reimbursement rate for Medicare and Medicaid (feeral hatlh programs) services will add about $700,000 in annual income for the hospital.

"This is the gold seal approval," said Beck. "Of the 29 active Critical Access Hospitals in California, only 12 are Joint Commission accredited, It's a more intensive and comprehensive than the state's program."

Fire season ends, prescribed burning begins

Fire season on the Modoc National Forest officially ends Saturday at midnight. The Forest will continue to support fire suppression efforts with a ready reserve of the Federal engines available on a two-hour notice.

This was a light fire season for northeastern California. The Modoc National Forest had 91 lightning-caused fires totaling 80 acres and nine human-caused fires totaling 14 acres.

Hospital debt continues upward swing

Modoc Medical Center's debt to Modoc County continued its upward swing at the end of September by $363,009 to a total of $12,428,228.99.

That was less than the increase of $470,292 at the end of August to $12,065,214 from July's $11,594,922.

Obituaries:

Gary Ray

Gary Paul Ray was born March 18, 1944, in Susanville, CA. He passed away in Alturas, CA on October 5, 2008 as a result of a vehicle accident.

 

 

Services and potluck will be at the Alturas Veterans Hall October 18 at 1:00 p.m. Donations can be made on Gary's behalf to the VFW Alturas or Susanville.

Lois Greene

Lois Ann Greene, 76, passed away September 30, 2008 at 4:30 a.m. at the Renown Hospital in Reno, NV. She is now at peace with her husband Charles Ray Greene, Sr.

Martha Pacheco

Martha Pacheco was born December 13, 1931, in Ayutla, Guerrero, Mexico. She immigrated to the United States in 1956 with her husband, Manuel Pacheco and her two small children, Sandra and Jimmy. The young family settled in Alturas, California.

Ardis Coffman

Former Alturas resident Ardis Mae Coffman, 90, of Castella, CA passed away October 1, 2008 at Mercy Care Center in Mt. Shasta, CA, after a long illness.

Dan Byrne

Memorial services for Daniel William "Dan" Byrne will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Tulelake Fire Hall in Tulelake. Mr. Byrne, 54, died of natural causes at his residence in Tulelake, CA on Sunday, October 5, 2008, with his wife Geri and family at his side.

Nancy Jo Philpott

Nancy JoAnn Philpott passed away at home in Alturas, CA on September 21, 2008. Memorial services were held September 26 at the Alturas Cemetery.

Bill Carpenter

On October 3, 2008, William (Bill) H. Carpenter passed away in Carlin, Nevada at the age of 84. Bill was born September 15, 1924, to William Carpenter and Georgia Brannan (Carpenter), in Longford, Kansas. Bill spent his youth enjoying the outdoors in the states of Wyoming and Kansas.

J. Gene McManus

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle, Gene died peacefully in his sleep October 4, 2008, in Sacramento, CA. He was 72. Born in Bemidji, MN on May 31, 1936, Gene moved to Northern California as a young boy and lived here his entire life. A graduate of Modoc High in Alturas.

Marion Ladewig

Graveside service for Marion Wimer Ladewig will be held at the Lake City Cemetery on October 18, 2008, at 2 p.m. Reception to follow. Marion Wimer Ladewig, 82, of Lake City, CA, passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at Surprise Valley Hospital, Cedarville.

Sports

Braves beat Fall River 20-14, take SCL lead

Modoc's Braves beat the Fall River Bulldogs 20-14 Friday night, in a game not as close as the score indicates. With the win, Modoc takes a commanding lead in the Shasta Cascade League and will meet Etna next Friday.

Etna comes in with a 5-1 Record and Modoc remains unbeaten with the toughest part of their schedule out of the way. Etna beat Burney 13-6 last week.

Modoc volleyball continues slide

Modoc's varsity volleyball team continues to struggle losing three matches over the last week.

The Braves lost a Shasta Cascade League game Oct. 2 to Burney 20-25, 24-26, 25-23 and 22-25. Coach Harold Montague said the girls had their best match of the season, but came up short.

JV girls beat Burney

Modoc's junior varsity volleyball team beat the Burney Raiders 25-14 and 25-18 October 2.
On Saturday, the girls played Lakeview and Grant Union in Lakeview. All of the team members got solid playing time. Modoc beat Lakeview 25-14, 22-25 and 19-17. Modoc lost to Grant Union 23-25 and 22-25.

Youth pheasant hunt set Nov. 1

The Fourth Annual "Jakes" pheasant hunt for youth age 17 and under is scheduled for Nov. 1 on the Chace Ranch in Modoc County. The application deadline for permits, which will be issued by drawing, is Oct. 23. The drawing will be held Oct. 24.

MX races set this weekend

The Modoc Motorsports Association is sponsoring motorcoss races October 11 and 12, 2008 at the Cedarville track. Gates open 6:30 a.m. and sign-ups begin at 7:00 a.m. (Sign-ups will also be taken the night before each race between 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.) Practice starts at 8:00 a.m. and racing begins immediately after Rider's meeting. Submit applications to Department of Fish and Game, P.O. Box 1244, Alturas, Ca. 96101, The applications will be numbered as they are received and the hunt is limited to 20 participants.

October 16, 2008

News

Monday last day to register to vote

October 20 is the final day to register to vote in the November 4 General Election in California.
Completed voter registration forms must be received at the County Clerk's office by close of business Oct. 20 or postmarked by Oct. 20. Those forms are available at many locations: Post Offices, the County Clerk's Office, DMV offices, libraries, and others.

The County Clerk reminds people that if they have had a name or address change, they must re-register to vote. College students can register to vote using their college residence so they can vote near their homes. California residents 18 years of age and older (or who turn 18 by Nov. 4) who are U.S. citizens can register to vote.

Modoc schools do well, math tends to linger

Modoc County Schools did well enough in statewide school testing, but there are some areas of concern, primarily in the mathematics arena.

Modoc County Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones was pleased that nine of 15 schools in the county showed growth for 2008.

Small schools Surprise Valley High School and Stateline Elementary each reached the state-goal Academic Performance Index test score of 800. Stateline improved by 30 points to 859, the fifth year in succession it reached the goal. Surprise Valley High scored at 800, a 66-point improvement.
Modoc High School dropped from last year's API pf 753 to 737. Alturas Elementary, a consistent high scoring school, improved from last year's 781 to 790. Modoc Middle School improved from 717 to 736. South Fork Elementary dropped from 753 to 737 and Modoc Charter School improved from 670 to 682.

Eagle Lake Bly tunnel leak to be investigated

Eagle Lake residents packed the house during the Eagle Lake Interagency Board of Directors meeting in the Lassen County Board of Supervisors Room on Wednesday to consider issues affecting the lake.

Of greatest interest to the public there was the Bly Tunnel and what effect it might have on dramatically declining lake levels.

Obituaries:

Art Monson

Longtime cattle and horse rancher Art Monson of Canby, CA died of natural causes on October 7, 2008, at Mercy Hospital in Redding, CA. For the past year, Mr. Monson had been living in Gerber near his daughter Pam. He was 83.

No services will be held. Memorials in Mr. Monson's name may be made to the Canby Volunteer Fire Department.

Doris J. Wischmann

Doris Jean Wischmann, 77, passed away August 28, 2008, in Alturas, CA. Born in Blanco, Oklahoma on May 25, 1931, she was very young when her family left Oklahoma for California during the Dust Bowl.

Donations in Doris' memory may be directed to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Michael John Mergen

Michael John Mergen was taken from his family and friends, Oct. 11, 2008, in Lakeport, CA. He was proud to say that his favorite place on earth was Modoc County. Although he never lived here, he spent as much time as he could visiting the area.

Michael John Mergen was born in Cicero, IL on February 13, 1929 to his mother Emma and father John Mergen, both of whom are deceased. Private interment is expected in Cedarville, CA on October 18, 2008.

Gary Paul Ray

Services for Gary Paul Ray and a potluck will be held October 18 at 1:00 p.m. at Veterans' Memorial Hall, So. Main St., Alturas. Gary was born March 18, 1944, in Susanville, CA. He passed away in Alturas, CA on October 5, 2008.

Donations can be made on Gary's behalf to the VFW Alturas or Susanville.

Marion Ladewig

Graveside service for Marion Wimer Ladewig will be held at the Lake City Cemetery on October 18, 2008, at 2 p.m. Reception to follow. Marion Wimer Ladewig, 82, of Lake City, CA, passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at Surprise Valley Hospital, Cedarville.

Monday last day to register to vote

October 20 is the final day to register to vote in the November 4 General Election in California.
Completed voter registration forms must be received at the County Clerk's office by close of business Oct. 20 or postmarked by Oct. 20. Those forms are available at many locations: Post Offices, the County Clerk's Office, DMV offices, libraries, and others.

The County Clerk reminds people that if they have had a name or address change, they must re-register to vote. College students can register to vote using their college residence so they can vote near their homes. California residents 18 years of age and older (or who turn 18 by Nov. 4) who are U.S. citizens can register to vote.

Modoc schools do well, math tends to linger

Modoc County Schools did well enough in statewide school testing, but there are some areas of concern, primarily in the mathematics arena.

Modoc County Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones was pleased that nine of 15 schools in the county showed growth for 2008.

Small schools Surprise Valley High School and Stateline Elementary each reached the state-goal Academic Performance Index test score of 800. Stateline improved by 30 points to 859, the fifth year in succession it reached the goal. Surprise Valley High scored at 800, a 66-point improvement.
Modoc High School dropped from last year's API pf 753 to 737. Alturas Elementary, a consistent high scoring school, improved from last year's 781 to 790. Modoc Middle School improved from 717 to 736. South Fork Elementary dropped from 753 to 737 and Modoc Charter School improved from 670 to 682.

Eagle Lake Bly tunnel leak to be investigated

Eagle Lake residents packed the house during the Eagle Lake Interagency Board of Directors meeting in the Lassen County Board of Supervisors Room on Wednesday to consider issues affecting the lake.

Of greatest interest to the public there was the Bly Tunnel and what effect it might have on dramatically declining lake levels.

Obituaries:

Art Monson

Longtime cattle and horse rancher Art Monson of Canby, CA died of natural causes on October 7, 2008, at Mercy Hospital in Redding, CA. For the past year, Mr. Monson had been living in Gerber near his daughter Pam. He was 83.

No services will be held. Memorials in Mr. Monson's name may be made to the Canby Volunteer Fire Department.

Doris J. Wischmann

Doris Jean Wischmann, 77, passed away August 28, 2008, in Alturas, CA. Born in Blanco, Oklahoma on May 25, 1931, she was very young when her family left Oklahoma for California during the Dust Bowl.

Donations in Doris' memory may be directed to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Michael John Mergen

Michael John Mergen was taken from his family and friends, Oct. 11, 2008, in Lakeport, CA. He was proud to say that his favorite place on earth was Modoc County. Although he never lived here, he spent as much time as he could visiting the area.

Michael John Mergen was born in Cicero, IL on February 13, 1929 to his mother Emma and father John Mergen, both of whom are deceased. Private interment is expected in Cedarville, CA on October 18, 2008.

Gary Paul Ray

Services for Gary Paul Ray and a potluck will be held October 18 at 1:00 p.m. at Veterans' Memorial Hall, So. Main St., Alturas. Gary was born March 18, 1944, in Susanville, CA. He passed away in Alturas, CA on October 5, 2008.

Donations can be made on Gary's behalf to the VFW Alturas or Susanville.

Marion Ladewig

Graveside service for Marion Wimer Ladewig will be held at the Lake City Cemetery on October 18, 2008, at 2 p.m. Reception to follow. Marion Wimer Ladewig, 82, of Lake City, CA, passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at Surprise Valley Hospital, Cedarville.

Sports

Braves continue quest for perfect season

Modoc's Braves beat the Etna Lions 32-6, on a bone chilling Friday night, and now turn their quest for an unbeaten Shasta Cascade League season on Weed, there this week. It wasn't much of a contest as the Braves led 6-0 after the first period and 20-0 at halftime. They added 12 points in the fourth to lead 32-0 before Etna scored to make it 32-6.

JVs beat Etna 30-8

The Modoc JV football team defeated Etna 30-8 on Friday, October 10. The commanding victory was facilitated by solid performances from the entire JV roster.

SV girls play for cause

On Thursday October 9 the Surprise Valley High School Lady Hornets Volleyball team put aside team colors and wore pink in order to support and raise money for an even greater cause, Breast Cancer Awareness. The event was the first annual ÒPlaying for a CureÓ game.

Bulldogs drop Modoc netters

Fall River's Shasta Cascade League-leading Bulldogs beat the Modoc Braves varsity volleyball team 25-24, 25-19 and 25-15 last week in Alturas.

Modoc faces Mt. Shasta tonight there, and travels to Trinity Saturday. Modoc is now 1-4 in league play.

October 23, 2008

News

Secure schools, roads has some deep concerns

While the passage of the Secure Rural Schools and Communities Act of 2008 was greeted as good news by affected counties, closer examination exposes some concerns.

Modoc County Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones recently met with the Executive Board of the California Forest Counties Schools Coalition (CFCSC) and Executive Director of the National Forest Counties Schools Coalition (NFCSC), Bob Douglas.

He reports that the SRSCA provides for four years of county payments starting in federal fiscal year 2008, meaning the county is due federal money for last year. That payment is expected in the middle of January.

The projected initial county payment of $3,109,487 (split between roads and schools) is a decrease of about 10 percent from the base year of 2006, a loss of $338,408.

For the current year of 2009, the county is slated to receive $2,625,789, a reduction of $483,698. The amounts are further reduced for 2010, a total payment of $2,245,741 with a decrease on the prior year's amount of $380,088.

County building perks up with spuds

A new potato storage building in the Newell area made up about half of the Modoc County Building Department's $2,168,488.62 value in September's 29 permits.

There were also seven permits for garages or barns and four manufactured homes.
The City of Alturas issued 20 building permits in the month of September, with 11 being for re-roofing. The estimated value of the permits was $125,043.

Oct. 28 last day for absentee request

The final day to request an absentee ballot for the November 4 General Election is Oct. 28 and those, plus regular mail-in ballots, must be returned by Election Day.

The Modoc County Clerk's Office is reminding voters get their mail-in or absentee ballots into the office no later than Nov. 4. If voters plan on mailing those ballots, the Clerk's office stresses they need to be mailed early. In the past some ballots took three days to arrive and some came after Election Day. Voters can physically take those ballots to the Clerk's Office, or can hand them in to a polling place.

Newell death ruled accidental

The cause of the September death of David Joel Heaton, Newell, has been ruled through autopsy as accidental asphyxia, according to Modoc County Sheriff Mark Gentry.

Obituaries:

Gertrude Gerig

After a short illness, longtime Bieber resident Gertrude Marie Gerig passed away at her home on September 8, 2008. A service of remembrance and to celebrate her life will be held Saturday, October 25, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bieber Memorial Hall. A potluck luncheon will follow.

Harold Allphin

Harold Lee Allphin of Alturas, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully in the arms of loving family members at his Alturas home on October 17, 2008. He was 88. The energetic Mr. Allphin, had retired at age 75, from a long career as a union interior/exterior painter in Southern California and Modoc County.

A private family service was held October 20 in Alturas.

Wiliam Grove

William Fredrick Grove, born and reared in Eagleville, CA, passed away Saturday, September 27, 2008, at the age of 87. Mr. Grove owned a cattle ranch in Eagleville from 1949 to 1958.
Bill did not want a funeral. For those who knew Bill during his life as a rancher, the family held an old fashioned wake in his honor at the Eagleville town hall October 11. Condolences may be sent to Michael Grove at michaelgrove@yahoo.com. Bill would appreciate donations to the Shriners Children's Hospital who helped Bill's oldest son live an extra 45 years.

Ernest Groth

Former Alturas resident Ernest Groth passed away October 12, 2008 in Medford, OR. Born January 14, 1931 in Independence, Kansas to John B. and Rose Groth, Ernie graduated from South Medford High School and was on the Black Tornadoes football team

Services were held in Medford. Condolences to the family may be sent to 2052 Young Ct., Medford, OR 97504. Memorial donations may be sent to the Church of Christ, 1450 N. Warner St., Alturas, CA 96101.

Steven M. Horning

Steven Michael Horning, 54, who was born and reared in Alturas, CA, passed away at UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, CA on October 5, 2008, after a battle with cancer.

Services will be private. Donations to help defray incurred medical costs may be directed to Kim Horning, 1131 Myrtle St., Turlock, CA 95380. Turlock memorial Park and Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Call us Monday through Friday 8:30AM - 5:00PM at (530) 233-2632 or e-mail us at record1@modocrecord.com.

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Sports

Braves beat Weed 42-6, travel to Chiloquin Friday night

Modoc's Braves buried the weed Cougars 42-6 Friday night in Weed and now take a trip north to meet Chiloquin this week. The Braves are now 4-0 in the Shasta Cascade League and 7-0 overall.

There will no junior varsity game at Chiloquin and the varsity game is schedule for 7 p.m.

Modoc splits in league volleyball

The Modoc Braves varsity volleyball team split in Shasta Cascade League action last week, losing to Mt. Shasta in five games, 22-25, 26-24, 25-19, 14-5 and 12-15 and beat Trinity, 19-25, 25-22, 25-23-22-25 and 14-16.

JV Braves handily defeat Weed

The Modoc JV football team defeated weed 36-6 on Friday, October 17. The passing games of both teams were limited, but the JV Braves running game was solid, with 373 total rushing yards.

 

October 30, 2008

News

Early voting strong in Modoc

Modoc County is mirroring much of the nation this year as people are getting their ballots in early for the November 4 general Election.

According to the Modoc County Clerk's Office, more than 1,500 ballots had been received by Wednesday and were coming in big bundles each day.

Modoc County has 5,332 registered voters, with a breakdown as follows: Republican 2,641; Democrat 1,548; Decline to State 830; American Independent 181, Libertarian 30 Green 19, Peace and Freedom six, and other four.

Shooting brings attempted murder charges

A Monday evening shooting in the New Pine Creek area resulted in attempted murder charges being filed against Robert Stanchina, age 50.

According to Modoc County Sheriff Mark Gentry, Stanchina is alleged to have shot Martin Verhamme, age 32, twice in the chest with a .22 caliber handgun. Gentry said they pair was reportedly arguing over a chainsaw when the gun was pulled and shots fired. The incident occurred at the Rock House on County Road Two, the road to Lily and Cave Lakes..

City voters asked to approve public safety funds

Voters in the City of Alturas are being asked to approve Measure K, which would add one-half cent to the state sales tax, which would be used only for public safety in the city.

The Alturas City Council placed the issue on the ballot at the request of Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes and Fire Chief Keith Jacques, both of whom see a shortage of funds currently to meet the community's needs.

The issue needs a two-thirds majority to pass on Nov. 4. The state sales tax is now at 7.25 percent, and if Measure K is approved, the sales tax in the city would go up. It is estimated that about $200,000 would be raised annually for the city.

Volunteers Sought for Forest RAC

The Modoc National Forest along with Modoc County is seeking interested
persons to fill four vacancies on the Modoc County Resource Advisory
Committee.

New appointments to the committee will be for the 4 years of
the new legislation. If you are interested in serving on the Modoc
County Resource Advisory Committee, contact Dina McElwain, Modoc
National Forest, at 530-233-8723 or Sean Curtis, Modoc County Resource
Analyst at 530-233-3276, by November 30, 2008. Additional information
on the legislation can be found at http://www.fs.fed.us/srs/

Modoc County will receive $3,109,487 for 2008 under the reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act 2000.

County must decide 80 or 85% split for secure schools, roads funds

The allocation of Secure Rural Schools and Communities Act of 2008 contains a graduated decrease in funds to Modoc County between now and fiscal year 2010-2011 amounting to $695,544.
The funds for the current base year amount to $3,447,895, drop to $3,109,487 in 2007-08; to $2,798.538 in 2008-09; to $2,522,139 in 2009-10; and goes up to $2,752,351 in 2010-11.

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors will decide in the near future whether to allocate 80 or 85 percent of the total funds to county schools and roads, with either 20 percent or 15 percent going to Title II and Title III projects.

The loss to county roads and school if the Board adopts to 80 percent figures is significant: $155,474 in 2007-08; $139,927 in 2008-09; $126,107 in 2009-10, and $137,618 in 2010-11. That's a total loss of $559,126 to schools and road over that period.

Obituaries:

June Graham

June (Hafer) Graham of Alturas passed away in Sacramento, California on Friday, October 24, 2008, where she had been staying for the past two weeks, due to failing health. Mrs. Graham was 86.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8 at 11 a.m. at the Alturas Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Brass Rail.

Patricia Fox

Memorial services were held October 16, 2008 at the Christian Center Church in Desert Hot Springs, CA for Patricia "Pat" Carolyn Fox of Silver Springs, Nevada and Desert Hot Springs. Pat passed away on October 12, 2008 in Yucca Valley from complications with Alzheimer's.

She was born on May 21, 1935 in Oolitic, Indiana to Clarence Hall and Lorene Lavender.

Sports

Braves host Chester for '08 Homecoming

Modoc Braves will host the Chester Volcanoes Friday night for the 2008 Homecoming game. The Braves are sporting perfect 8-0 record coming into the game and Chester comes in with a 2-6 overall mark.

The Braves walloped Chiloquin last Friday night 47-14 and Chester beat Los Molinos 24-0. The junior varsity game will start about 5 p.m. and the varsity will follow.

Modoc High Volleyball

The Modoc High Varsity Volleyball team defeated Etna in four games on Oct. 25: 25- 19, 21-25, 25-19, and 25-19. The Lady Braves played strong defense, frustrating Etna's attack throughout the match.

On Oct. 28, the Lady Braves lost to Burney in 4 games: 14-25, 25-19, 18-25, and 15-25. The team was unable to get any sort of rhythm going during the match.

MMA offers to pay entry fees

The Modoc Motorsports Association is offering to pay the entry fee for one class for any of its members who participate in the Klamath Indoor Motocross event at the Klamath Fairgrounds Nov. 7-8.

For more information, call Pat Rees at 708-0116 or Rendy Rees at 233-4325.

Modoc High sports Purple and White pride for Homecoming

Homecoming week activities for Modoc High students continue tonight Oct. 30, with dress up (costume) day and royalty voting after the student vs. faculty Volleyball game. Tonight the annual Powder Puff game, Bonfire and King Coronation will take place between 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on the Football Field.

Friday is Purple and White school colors dress up day with students to parade down Main Street, Alturas, lining up at 1:25 p.m. on Eighth Street in front of Oxley Social Hall. The parade will head south down Main Street to Veterans' Park, with floats, band, royalty and classes sporting purple and white pride. A student Rally will take place at 2:15 p.m. in the Griswold Gymnasium. Friday night's game against Chester begins with the JV game at 5 p.m. and Varsity at 7 p.m.

 

November 6, 2008

News

Crabtree narrowly wins District IV runoff

Shorty Crabtree narrowly defeated James Wills in the run-off election for District IV Supervisor seat in Tuesday's election and the City's half-cent sales tax issue failed.

Modoc County had a very strong voter turnout as 81.22 percent, 4,473 of its 5,507 registered voters cast ballots.

Crabtree garnered 527 votes (51.77 percent), while Wills earned 484 votes, 47.54 percent.

MMC debt keeps climbing

The debt of Modoc Medical Center to the county keeps climbing and may be nearing a ceiling soon.
The debt at the end of October stood at $12,830,954 an increase of $402,726 from September's $12,428,228.99.

Obituaries:

June Graham

June Graham of Alturas died October 24, 2008, in Sacramento after a brief hospitalization. She was 86 and had been in rapidly failing health for several weeks. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8 at 11 a.m. at the Alturas Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Brass Rail restaurant in Alturas.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be directed to the Modoc County Historical Society, 600 So. Main Street, Alturas, CA 96101 or Modoc County Library, 212 West Third St., Alturas, 96101.

Fred Haynes

Cedarville resident Fred Haynes passed away October 31, 2008, at the age of 85 in Cedarville, CA. Mr. Haynes served with the U.S. Navy during World War II. He became a heavy equipment owner and operator in the Bay area for nearly 50 years that followed his discharge. He moved to Cedarville five years ago.

Services were private.

Alvin M. Harris

Alvin M. Harris, 76 of Oroville, passed away on Oct. 27, 2008 in Oroville.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, Nov. 7, 2008 at the Eagles Hall in Oroville at 1:00 p.m.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ramsey Funeral Home. Please visit RamseyFuneralHomes.com to view his farewell.

Sports

Braves host Los Molinos in final SCL game

Modoc's Braves quest for a perfect Shasta Cascade League and pre-season will pit them against Los Molinos in Alturas Friday night. Los Molinos comes in as a heavy underdog after getting beat by Burney 51-6 last Friday night.

The Braves are coming off a 41-0 drubbing of Chester's Volcanoes. Chester beat Los Molinos 24-0 earlier this season.

"We'll be prepared for them and take nothing for granted," said Modoc coach Shaun Wood. "I think we just have to stay focused and play our game and we'll be fine. We need to concentrate on this game and secure home field advantage throughout the playoffs. We're playing very well this year and we'll be fine."
With a win Friday night, Modoc would finish the season with a perfect 10-0 and 6-0 SCL record, the only team left unbeaten in the section. That record would give them a first round bye in the playoffs and the remaining games in Alturas.

Modoc had no trouble against Chester, taking a 20-0 first period lead and led 34-0 by halftime. The Braves backed off in the second half, adding just seven points in the third period for the 41-0 win.
The Braves' defense had held Chester to negative offensive yards in the first half.

Meanwhile, the Braves were running and scoring pretty much at will. Justin Estes led the running attack with 128 yards on 11 carries, Matt Mayes added 50 on seven and Dee Hunsaker had 32 on three.

Hunsaker was 4-for-6 passing for 153 yards and two touchdowns. Josh Wood caught a pair for 50 yards and Ulysses Gonzales caught two for 103 yards, one a 66-yard touchdown.

Hunsaker and Estes scored a pair of touchdowns each, while Mayes and Gonzales each added one. Josh Wood and Gonzales combined on the conversions.

Mayes led the team in tackles with 11; Ivan Mendoza had 11, Tyler Wood nine, Miguel Torres eight, and Ryan vanderHeyden, Estes, Wood and Ethan Bonham seven each.

Josh Wood sacked the Chester quarterback three times, while Hunsaker, vanderHeyden, Chris McMasters and Torres each had one sack.

So far this season, Modoc's offense has generated 334 points; a 37-point per game average while the defense has held teams to 80 points, an 8.8 point per game average.
In other action last Friday, Fall River beat Etna 49-6.

Braves lose to Fall River

The Modoc Braves volleyball team lost to Fall River in 3 games: 16-25, 15-25, and 11-25. The Braves played hard, but were unable to capitalize on their efforts. "Our inability to consistently pass to the setter and put serves in play limited our ability to score throughout the match," said Coach Harold Montague. Following the loss, the Braves dropped to 3-7 for the season.

Offensively, Emily Conner led the Braves with 6 kills and 12 aces. The rest of the team combined for 10 kills and 2 aces. "Conner had a great night defensively with 8 blocks," said Montague. Unfortunately, as a team the Braves were unable to stop Fall River's attack.

The JV team defeated Fall River, winning in 3 games: 23-25, 28-26, and 15-12.

The Braves finish their season playing Weed and Trinity. People are encouraged to come and support the seniors for Senior Night on Thursday, Nov. 6, prior to the commencement of the varsity game against Trinity.

Modoc JVs beat Chester

The Modoc JV Football team defeated Chester 22-8 on Friday, Oct. 31. The Braves racked up 231 rushing yards against Chester, but were unable to get a passing game going. The Braves' defense held Chester to 159 total yards.

Webb Dunn Led the Braves with 2 touchdowns, Tee Wilson had 1 touchdown and a two-point conversion, and Jeremy West caught one two-point conversion. The Braves had 10 rushing first downs in the game.
The Braves' defense played exceptionally well against Chester. At one point in the game Chester had the ball with first-and-goal on the 2-yard line and the Braves made a goal line stand, giving the ball back to the offense on the 7-yard line. Tee Wilson, Austin Carreker and Jessie Silva each had one interception.
"Great job by the defense," said Coach Rodney Grier. "Besides the goal line stand, the defense had an awesome night with several QB sacks and tackles behind the line of scrimmage."

The Modoc Brave JV team is now 5-4 for the season, and is looking to close out strongly against Los Molinos this Friday.

November 13, 2008

News

Perlite facility aims for April operation

The project of Cornerstone Industrial Minerals, to truck its Perlite to the Alturas Mill siding for loading onto train cars heading to Klamath Falls is nearing operational mode.

Cornerstone President/Owner Mick Stanley on Friday said that contracts have been signed with the City of Alturas and he would like to be in operation by an April 1.

Public hearing on MMC hospital district tonight

The proposed Modoc Medical Center healthcare district public hearing is Nov. 13, 6 p.m. at Alturas City Hall will address putting the issue to a vote of the people.

The Modoc County Local Agency Formation Commission, LAFCO, The Modoc County Board of Supervisors and the Save Our Hospital Committee is proposing to form a Healthcare District and establish a Sphere of Influence of approximately 955 square miles, including the communities of Likely, Alturas, California Pines and Canby.

Closer look at Tuesday's election details

District Four County Supervisor Shorty Crabtree won another term by just 47 votes over challenger James Wills last Tuesday 532-485, and the precinct that may have won it for him was Canby.
According to the Modoc County Clerk's results, Canby gave Crabtree a 37-vote lead, 88-51.

California Pines voted for Crabtree by five, 124-119 and Hot Spring voted for him by eight, 184-176.
Alturas B voted in favor of Wills by a three-point margin, 139-136.

Modoc seeks new RAC members

The Modoc National Forest along with Modoc County is seeking interested persons to fill four vacancies on the Modoc County Resource Advisory Committee. New appointments to the committee will be for the 4 years of the new legislation. If you are interested in serving on the Modoc County Resource Advisory Committee, contact Dina McElwain, Modoc National Forest, at 530-233-8723 or Sean Curtis, Modoc County Resource Analyst at 530-233-3276, by November 21, 2008. Additional information on the legislation can be found at http://www.fs.fed.us/srs/

Obituaries:

Andrew Campbell

Andrew William MacFarlane Campbell, age 68, passed away November 3, 2008 in Porterville, California. He was a former resident of Alturas.

A celebration of Andrew's life will be held at the Porterville Airport on Saturday, November 15, 2008 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. A second celebration will be held in St. Helena, CA on Friday, November 28. Andrew requested that donations may be made to the Farmersville Deep Creek Academy Scholarship Fund.

Kathryn Purington

Kathryn Purington, 78, of Adin, CA passed away October 28, 2008, at Mayers Memorial Hospital, Fall River Mills, CA. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 15 at 2:30 p.m. at Adin Community Hall.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Big Valley Endowment for the Adin Ambulance, P.O. Box 356, Adin, CA 96006. McDonald's Chapel, Burney is handling arrangements.


Christopher Cook

Christopher Russell "Chris" Cook, 44, found peace with the Lord on Friday, November 7, 2008, in Dairy, OR. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 815 Pine Street, Klamath Falls, OR on Friday, November 14, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Rogatian Urassa celebrating. Concluding services will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. An Evening Vigil and Rosary service will be held from the chapel of Ward's Klamath Funeral Home, 1945 Main Street, Klamath Falls on Thursday, November 13 at 6:00 p.m.

Sports

Modoc wins SCL; on to section playoffs as number 2 seed

Modoc's Braves won the Shasta Cascade League Friday night with a 59-0 win over visiting Los Molinos. That win gave the Braves a perfect 6-0 league mark and a 10-0 overall season record.
Even with that perfect record, Modoc enters the North Section Division Four playoffs as the second seed, behind the 9-1 Portola Tigers. That gives both Portola and Modoc byes in the first round of the playoffs this Friday.

Modoc will meet the winner of this week's U-Prep (three seed) versus Etna (six seed) game on Nov. 21 in Alturas. Portola will meet the winner of the Esparto (four seed) versus Quincy (five seed) game in Portola.

Varsity volleyball ends season with victory

The Modoc High varsity volleyball team defeated Trinity in four games: 25-19, 25-20, 15-25, and 25-22. Modoc ends the season 4-7 in the SCL and 7-17-2 overall.

Modoc JV Football defeats Los Molinos

The Modoc JV football team decisively defeated Los Molinos 36-14 on Friday.The JV Braves end the season 6-4 and were third place in the SCL.

MMS hosts girls hoop tourney

There will be a Middle School Girl's Basketball tournament this Friday and Saturday with games being played at the Modoc High School gym.

Teams from Burney, Fall River, Big Valley, Gerlach, Surprise Valley, Lakeview, and Modoc will be participating in 2 divisions. Games will be played between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Friday

November 20, 2008

News

LAFCO passes hospital district issue

The Modoc County Local Agency Formation Commission, LAFCO, voted 4-0 with one abstention last Thursday approving a resolution sending the Last Frontier Health Care District formation on its way to a vote.

Following a well-attended public hearing at Alturas City Hall, Commissioners Mike Dunn, Dan Macsay, John Dederick and Marie Neer voted in favor while John Schreiber abstained. The issue now goes to the Modoc County Board of Supervisors for another public hearing and a decision whether to put the issue to a vote of the people in the proposed district.

According to Modoc County Chief Administrative Officer Mike Maxwell, that hearing will be held at a date to meet a May, 2009 election timeframe. Supervisors have the option to set an election or not.

Boyd, Misso, Orr, win in Tulelake race

Final results in the Tulelake Basin Joint Unified School District election show that two incumbents trustees were unseated.

With the combination of votes from Modoc and Siskiyou Counties incumbent Jeffrey Boyd won with 551 votes, and challengers David Porter Misso won with 407 and Daniel Orr won with 367 votes. Incumbents Thomas Macy lost with 353 votes and Jerry LeQuieu had 220 votes.

Record warm for November

This last weekend has produced record warm temperatures for November in Alturas and daytime highs well above averages.

Sunday, Nov. 16, found the mercury moving up to 71 degrees, 21 degrees above the average of 51, and breaking a record of 69 set in 1949.

On Monday, the daytime high was 72, tying the record set in 1959. The average high for Nov. 17 is 51 degrees.

Haralson trial date vacated, hearing set

The impending and often delayed homicide trial of Robert Chad Haralson, age 32, the suspect in the 1992 murder of Betty Lou Parks, which had been set for January 5 in Modoc Superior Court has been vacated.

According to the Modoc County District Attorney's Office, the defense attorney John Webster, of Redding, has another trial that conflicted with the January 5 Modoc date. A pre-trial conference has been set for Dec. 16 to address the trial date.

Sports

Braves face Etna in Section semi-final

Modoc's Braves will host the Etna Lions Friday night in the second round of the North Section CIF Division IV football playoffs.

Etna, the number six seed beat University Prep, number three, 26-13, last Friday to move on to face the Braves. In their Shasta Cascade League meeting this year, Modoc trounced Etna 32-6.

Number five Quincy beat number four Esparto 9-7 to win the other opening round game and will face number one Portola in Portola this Friday.

If Modoc and Portola each win, the section championship will played at Portola Nov. 26. If Portola loses and Modoc wins, the game will be played in Alturas. Portola beta Quincy 44-22 in the first game this season.

Modoc runners have strong finish

Cross Country finished the year with strong performances at the Trinity Invitational, Small Schools and Northern California Sectionals.

Austin Hoy had a personal best with a time of 20:35 in the varsity division as a sophomore over three miles on very tough terrain at the Trinity Invite. He placed 26th out of 45 varsity runners.

Michel Funk and Susanna Jones both ran terrific races, each receiving medals with times of 24:01 for Funk and 24:03 for Jones, placing them 11th and 12th out of 45 runners.
West Valley High School was the host of small schools for Shasta Cascade League.

"It was a very wet and cold day in West Valley making the course very difficult to run on with several large hills and an all dirt trail," said coach Wendi Lowrey.

Hoy again ran at the varsity level placing 46th out of 80 runners with a time of 20:56. Jones had a strong race with a time of 25:03 placing her 22nd. Funk had difficulties with her ankle on the muddy trail and came in 27th with a time of 25:14. The varsity girls had 62 runners in their division.

Sectionals were held at West Valley. Hoy had a good race, again running in the varsity division. Among 183 male runners he placed 128th with a time of 20:37. Funk also had and good race with a season best time of 23:54 and placing her 69th out of 162 runners. Jones finished her race with a season best of 23:56 placing her right behind Funk in 70th place.

November 27th, 2008

News

New statewide regulations for septic systems will have severe impact on Modoc

The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) has proposed regulations that will establish new statewide minimum requirements for the siting, permitting, construction, operation, maintenance and performance monitoring of all new and existing onsite wastewater disposal systems including septic tank systems with leach fields.

Modoc County Environmental Health Officer Warren Farnam is very concerned that the new regulations will be extremely negative for Modoc County residents, and could be very expensive.
According to Farnum, 71 percent of dwellings in Modoc are on septic systems. He will address his concerns to the Modoc County Board of Supervisors at the December 9 meeting. He said the situation is very serious and residents need to be aware of what the state's doing.

Alturas man dies in auto accident

A 20-year-old Alturas man, Daniel (Defrates) Shaffer, died Nov. 20 from injuries sustained in a single-vehicle accident on U.S. 395 about a half-mile south of the Cedarville Y.

The California Highway Patrol reports that Defrates was driving a 1988 Ford Bronco southbound at an unknown time and unknown speed. He allowed the vehicle to drift onto the right shoulder, lost control and the Bronco crossed both lanes of traffic, where it went off onto the right shoulder of northbound U.S. 395 and continued out of control. It continued along that shoulder and rolled several times, ejecting the driver.

October jobless ran well over 2007

The Modoc County unemployment rate for October 2008 was substantially higher than last year, 9.1 percent this year to 6.6 percent last year.

According to preliminary figures from the state Employment Development Department there were 380 people unemployed in October 2008, compared to 280 the same month in 2007. The civilian labor force in October 2007 numbered 4,190 and in 2008 it dropped to 4,120.

Obituaries:

Daniel Shaffer (Defrates)

Daniel Wayne Shaffer (Defrates) was born April 13, 1988 in Alturas, CA. He passed away at Renown Hospital in Reno, NV on November 20, 2008, as the result of a vehicle accident near Alturas.
Memorial services will be held at Alturas Baptist Church on West Fourth Street on Saturday, November 29 at 1 p.m. A potluck and time of fellowship will follow.

Donations may be made to Modoc Medical Center's Tree of Life, in memory of Daniel W. Shaffer Defrates, 228 W. McDowell Street, Alturas, CA 96101.

Helen Cahill

Helen Elaine Cahill lost her battle with cancer on November 17, 2008. She was the loving mother of Shannon (Brad) Towle, Jonelle (Jim) Bauserman, John "Jody" Cahill and Casey Cahill and wife of John Cahill who predeceased her on July 8, 1983.

Daryl Bartholomew

Family services will be held at a later date for Daryl D. Bartholomew, 53, of Burney. Mr. Bartholomew died of natural causes November 9, 2008 at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, CA. He was born October 7, 1955 in Alturas, CA and moved to the Burney in 2005 from Washington. He was a truck driver.

Dodie Tipton

Dolores "Dodie" Tipton passed away November 22, 2008 at home in Alturas, CA. A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, December 1 at 11 a.m. at Kerr Mortuary Chapel, Alturas. She was preceded in death by her husband Herman "Tip" Tipton on April 23, 2008.

Sports

Braves meet Portola for section title

Unlike the ridiculous college Bowl Championship Series system, the North Section Division IV Football Championship has come down to what it should have – the two best teams in the division will play for the title.

Modoc's Braves play the Portola Tigers Wednesday 6 p.m. in Portola. Modoc beat Etna 34-12 in the semi-final and Portola dropped Quincy 34-0. The teams come into the title game fairly evenly matched. Modoc comes into the game with an 11-0 record and Portola finished at 10-1. Both teams beat Division V Champion Fall River.

The Braves averaged 38.8 points per game and Portola 36.4. Modoc averaged 400.9 yards per game offense while Portola had 344 while Portola passed for a 134.5 yard average and Modoc for 108.9 yards. The Braves scored 427 points in 11 games while giving up just 92 and the Tigers scored 400 points, giving up 115.

December 4th, 2008

News

District 4 Congressional race not over

The race between Democrat Charlie Brown and Republican Tom McClintock to replace retiring John Doolittle in the U.S. House of Representatives, District Four, is not yet decided.

As of this week, McClintock held a 1,576 vote lead over Brown, 184,543 (50.3 percent) to 182,967 (49.7 percent) according to the California Secretary of State's Office.

MMC debt goes over $13 million

The Modoc Medical Center debt to the county hit another milestone at the end of November, going up to $13,281,478.97, according to the Modoc County Auditor's Office.

That's an increase of $450,524 over the October debt of $12,830,954, which was up $402,726 from September's $12,428,228.99.

Ft. Bidwell woman killed in Cedar Pass wreck

A single vehicle accident on Cedar Pass Nov. 30 just after 6 a.m. claimed the life of Dana L. DeGarmo, age 51, of Fort Bidwell.

According to the California Highway Patrol, DeGarmo was westbound on State Route 299 in a 2002 Ford SUV at about 50 m.p.h. when she hit a large patch of ice. The vehicle went out of control, struck a rock embankment on the north side of the highway and came to rest upside down on the south side of SR299.

Obituaries:

Roger Paul Dunn

Roger Paul Dunn passed away November 30, 2008, at home in Alturas, CA due to complications from Diabetes. He had just turned 57 on November 24, and was born in Alturas, CA to Lyle and Mattie Dunn in 1951.

No services will be held per Roger's request.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Modoc Senior Citizens Center, 906 West Fourth St., Alturas, CA 96101.

Dana DeGarmo

Dana DeGarmo of Ft. Bidwell, CA passed away November 30, 2008, at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, CA, from a vehicle accident. Graveside services will be held Friday, Dec. 5 at 1:30 p.m. at the Ft. Bidwell Cemetery.

Dana De Garmo's obituary will be published at a later date.

William 'Bill' Brown

William R. "Bill" Brown, husband of Betty M. Brown of Alturas, passed away at Sky Lakes Medical Center, Klamath Falls, OR on December 2, 2008. Services will be held Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 11 a.m. at the Church of Christ, 1450 North Warner St., Alturas. Mr. Brown's obituary will be published at a later date.

Dee Anna Snow

Dee Anna Snow passed away at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, CA on the evening of November 29, 2008, after a very long illness. She was 65. Graveside services will be held at Adin Cemetery in Adin, CA on Friday, December 5 at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Northern Calif., 553 Pilgrim Dr. Suite C, Foster City, CA 94404.

Please visit or contribute to her Everlasting Memorial at ww.mem.com

Dolores Tipton

Dolores Beverly Tipton was born to Ervin and Mary Hill in Cedarville, CA on December 4, 1936. Dodie died at her home in Alturas, CA on November 22, 2008. She spent her youth in Surprise Valley and on the family ranches in Nevada. She graduated from Surprise Valley High School in Cedarville.

A Memorial Service was held on Monday, December 1 at 11 a.m. at Kerr Mortuary Chapel, Alturas.

Carl Murch

Carl Murch passed away at his Alturas home in the arms of his loving wife on November 30, 2008.
First and foremost, Carl was a Marine. He served in Vietnam (1967-68) as an engineer building roads, bunkers and base installations along the Demilitarized Zone

He is survived by Kathy, his wife of 30 years and his mother Dorothy Barnard who resides in Colorado. A man with many friends; he will be sorely missed.

Janice VanLone

Janice VanLone-known by all as "Nan," passed away on Sunday, November 30, 2008 at age 67. She had lived in Alturas for many years, then moved to Yuba City about two years ago.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, December 6 at 2:00 p.m.
Church of Christ, Peach Tree Lane, Yuba City, CA.

Sports

Braves crush Portola 33-10 to win North Section

Modoc's Braves put together a 27-point second half to crush the Portola Tigers 33-10 in the CIF North Section Division IV championship game last Wednesday in Portola.

Portola was seeded number one and Modoc number two in the section play-offs, and the local Plumas County papers were confident the Tigers would make short work of the Braves. The game was played in a steady rain.

Braves in line to play in state title bowl

The Modoc Braves varsity football team is currently ranked number one in the north state small schools division, giving them a shot at playing for the state championship.

Coach Shaun Wood said the ranking is good, but the decision on who gets the nod will come from the commissioners of the 10 CIF section commissioners. That decision will be made December 14. The championship game is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Dec. 19 in Dominguez Hills.

Modoc wrestlers begin quest for 10th straight SCL title

The Shasta Cascade League wrestling championship trophy is probably ordered with the Modoc Braves name already engraved. Modoc is going for its 10th straight SCL title and third straight Division III championship.

While Trinity and Mt. Shasta may challenge for the title this year, it's highly doubtful they'll be able to overcome coach Shaun Wood's Braves.

Modoc comes into his season with the number one ranked 215-pounder in the state, Josh Wood, who placed fourth at the state finals last year.

Braves open hoop season with loss

Modoc's varsity boy's basketball team is at the Fall River Block F Tournament this weekend. They have had precious few days to practice since they just completed the football season.

Tuesday night they lost to Triad of Klamath Falls 49-33. They started with just a two-point first period and trailed at halftime 22-12. They picked it up in the third, outscoring Triad 11-9, but fell off in the fourth as Triad pumped in 18 points to Modoc's 10.

Dee Hunsaker led the scoring with 12 points and Tyler Dowdy had 10.

Braves take to the hardwoods

Modocs Varsity Girls team returns three starters and a sixth man from last years squad, with only one junior with varsity experience moving up to Varsity.
The Braves first game was Tuesday at home versus Triad from Klamath Falls, Oregon. They are at Fall River at the Block F Tournament Thursday.
Hall is assisted by Jennifer Slinkard.

The girls beat Triad of Klamath Falls Tuesday night 45-28. Modoc trailed 12-8 in the first, but took a 20-18 lead at the half. The Braves scored 25 second half points, while limiting Triad to 10.

December 11th, 2008

News

County says 'no' to septic proposal

It may not make a lot of difference at the state levels, but the Modoc County Board of Supervisors agreed with its Environmental Health Officer Warren Farnam Tuesday and said no to a proposed new statewide septic system proposal.

The comments were submitted officially by the Board to the State Water Quality Resources Control Board in response to a Draft Environmental Impact Report, DEIR, concerning Assembly Bill 885, Onsite Waste Treatment Systems.

Farnam presented his comments to Supervisors at the regular meeting on Tuesday and will continue to monitor and battle the SWRCB on the issue, which he said would have a devastating impact on Modoc and other rural counties.

New County CAO on Board

New Modoc County Chief Adminsitrative Officer Mark Charlton's first day on the job was Monday and Tuesday he officially attended his first Board of Supervisor' meeting.

Charlton comes to Modoc from San Francisco, where he was Regional Director of Programs for the U.S. Corps of Engineers. He retired from that position to accept the Modoc job. That also meant giving up an apartment in the prime Marina District to move to the country.

Charlton and his wife, Susan, own a home in Shingle Springs, so he is familiar with the rural lifestyle. He has also worked and lived in the eastern Washington state area.

Brown concedes to McClintock

On December 3, Lt. Col. Charlie Brown conceded the election for U.S. Representative in District IV to Thousand Oaks Republican Tom McClintock.

On Tuesday, the California Secretary of State's office had McClintock leading Brown by 1,576 votes, 184,543 (50.3 percent) to 182,967 (49.7 percent).

McClintock will replace embattled U.S. Congressman John Doolittle, who is retiring. Doolittle has been under investigation in connection with the Jack Abramoff scandal.

Building remains sluggish in Modoc

Building activity in the City of Alturas and the County of Modoc remained sluggish in November.
The County Building Department issued 13 permits, worth an estimated $191,013. That's a change from 13 permits worth an estimated $578,001 for October.

Installation of two new billboards and construction of two barns made up the bulk of the permit values. Last month, one new home and a wireless communication facility made up $232,803 of the total.

The City of Alturas issued nine building permits in November, with an estimated value of $51,317. Two remodeling projects accounted for over $40,000 of the total.

In October, the City issued 13 permits, valued at $273,409.

Obituaries:

William Brown

William (Bill) R. Brown of Alturas has finished his time on this earth. God, his Father, took Bill home from Klamath Falls, Oregon on Tuesday, December 2, 2008. Attending Bill on that night were children, grandchildren, a daughter-in-law and his adoring wife Betty.

Inurnment was private. A memorial service was held in Alturas on December 10, 2008. A second memorial will be held Saturday, December 20, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Christian Church, 290 North Union Road, Manteca, CA.

Donations to a veterans' organization in Bill's name will be appreciated.

Dana Lynn DeGarmo

Dana Lynn DeGarmo passed away at Mercy Medical Center in Redding, CA on the evening of November 30, 2008, from a vehicle accident. She was 51. Dana was born and raised in Alturas, CA. she attended the local elementary/middle schools and graduated from Modoc Union High School in 1975.

Services were held on December 5 at Ousley Osterman Huffstutter's Funeral Chapel, 410 Center Street, Lakeview, OR and graveside services were at the Fort Bidwell Cemetery in Fort Bidwell, CA.

William S. Atchison

William Samuel Atchison of Alturas passed away December 8, 2008, in Redding, CA. Mr. Atchison's obituary and announcement of memorial services will be published next week. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Sports

Modoc still favored for state bowl game

The chances of the Modoc Braves football team heading to Los Angeles to play in the state championship bowl are still positive.

As of this week, Modoc was still the favored team in the North, while the south representative had changed to Parker out of San Diego.

Central Valley Christian, of Visalia, was the number one ranked team in the south last week.

Wood said the decision on who gets the nod will come from the commissioners of the 10 CIF sections. That decision will be made December 14. The championship game is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Dec. 19 in Dominguez Hills.

Modoc hosts Northeast Classic this weekend

Modoc's wrestling team hosts the Northeast Classic wrestling tournament in Alturas this weekend, with duals set Friday and the individual championships on Saturday.

Teams coming this year include: Anderson, Corning, Crane (Ore.), Wood Creek (Sacramento), Burney, Fall River, Lassen, Mt. Shasta, Weed, Big Valley, Portola, Etna, Tulelake, Chester and others.

Modoc boys off to rough start

Modoc's varsity boy's basketball team is still trying to recover from a championship football season and has started the hoop season 0-5.

Modoc lost three games at the Block F Tournament last weekend in Fall River.
Hayfork beat the Braves 65-54 to open the tourney. Modoc lost the second game to Chester 60-49. Big Valley dropped the Braves in the final game 56-48. The Braves lost to Bonanza Tuesday night 46-45 after opening with a 16-9 first period lead.

Modoc girls fall to Bulldogs

Modoc girl's varsity basketball team lost a close game to Fall River 58-57 last Thursday night in Fall River.

Bonanza beat the Braves 66-59 Tuesday. Emily Conner put up 25 points, Michel Funk added 16 and Rochelle Keller had 10.

December 18th, 2008

News

Beck remains upbeat about hospital

Modoc Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Walt Beck remains optimistic that a turnaround of the facility is on track, in spite of the increasing debt to the county. That debt went over $13 million last month.

One of the key issues on the near horizon is the final approval and allocation of a provider number for the Critical Access Hospital reimbursement. That process is going through the necessary bureaucratic channels and Beck expects to see that cash increase in about two months.

If MMC had been receiving the higher CAH reimbursement rate, Beck said it would have amounted to about $120,000 since Oct. 9. The rate increase will be retroactive to the Oct. 9 CAH accreditation date.

Winter arrives days early

Winter doesn't officially begin until Sunday, but cold and snow hit Modoc with a passion this week.
The low temperature in Alturas Wednesday was 13 below zero and by noon it had warmed all the way up to two degrees above. While it was cold, the record cold for December 17 hit 19 below zero in 1967.

Septic system impact far flung

Last week, Modoc County Environmental Health Officer Warren Farnam did a report on the Draft Environmental Impact Report by the State Water Quality Resources Control Board, concerning Assembly Bill 885, Onsite Waste Treatment Systems.

That report addresses the drastic and far flung impacts that law would have on rural areas, especially counties like Modoc, where about 71 percent of the households have septic systems.

Forest travel DEIS out for comment

The Modoc National Forest Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Motorized Travel Management is available for review. The DEIS examines five alternatives for managing motor vehicle use and the predicted environmental impacts associated with them.

A 45-day comment period will begin on Dec. 19 and end on Feb. 1.

Obituaries:

Faye Henson

Faye Henson passed away on Friday, December 12, 2008, in Alturas, CA. Faye was born in Purdon, Texas on December 15, 1926, to Alta and Robert French. She grew up in Sheridan, Arkansas and became a "war bride" when she married her high school sweetheart, Richard on Valentine's day,
She is preceded in death by her husband Richard, daughters Alice Faye and Mazel Ruth, son Richard "Dick" Henson, Jr. and her parents. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Modoc Little League, VFW, or charity of one's choice. A memorial service to celebrate Faye's life will be held at a later date.

Fern Rose Pena

Alturas resident Fern Rose Pena said her goodbyes to family and close friends before passing away at her home on December 10, 2008, with her daughters Dianna and CeCelia at her side. She was 81. The mother of 12 children, grandmother of 24 and great-grandmother to 11 children, Rose extended her heart and home to an additional 22 children over the years as a foster parent.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by The Rev. Father Jeremy Leatherby at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Alturas on Wednesday, Dec. 17 at 10 a.m. with committal at the Alturas Cemetery.

Bill Peterposten

Former Lake City resident Bill Peterposten, 87, passed away at his home in Reno, NV on Friday, Dec. 12, 2008. Services will be held at Grace Church in Reno on Monday, Dec. 29 at 1:30 p.m. Mr. Peterposten's obituary will be published at a future date.

Gayland Sansing

Gayland W. Sansing, known as "G.W.," passed away on Sunday, Dec. 12, 2008, at the age of 68, at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. Mr. Sansing had moved to the Alturas area from Modesto three years ago, when he retired

He is survived by sisters Alli and husband Jim, Donna and a brother John residing in the Modesto area and good friends in Modoc. His parents predeceased him. Services in Modesto are pending.

William Atchison

A Memorial Service for William S. Atchison will be held Saturday, Dec. 20 at 2 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 1400 W. Fourth St., Alturas. Mr. Atchison made Modoc his home for the past 19 years. He ended his service to Jehovah in this system on December 8, 2008, in Redding, CA. and is poised and ready to begin his service in paradise promised by Jehovah.

Jessie Genung

Jessie Odessa (Cannon) Genung, 89, lost her struggle with cancer at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, on December 13, 2008 in Virginia Beach, VA.

She was born April 1, 1919, in Surprise Valley, CA. She was the last surviving child of William Jesse Cannon and Edna Frances Royce, decendents of Modoc County pioneer families.
Private graveside services will be held in Lawncrest Memorial Park in Redding.

Michael McCrary

Michael James McCrary, affectionately known as "Mickey", was born during a rare summer snowstorm on July 7, 1948 in Alturas, California. He died peacefully in his sleep on December 13, 2008, at Copper Ridge Care Center in Redding, California.

Please join the us for the burial and memorial service of this remarkable and beloved man, Michael James McCrary, on December 27, 2008 at 12:00 at the Adin Cemetery. A potluck memorial will be held afterward at the Adin Community Hall.

Benjamin Garcia

Benjamin (Ben) Gordon Garcia,1952-2008, left this earth quietly at 3 p.m., the first day of December, 2008, at his home in Bieber. His wife, children, grandchildren and family will sorely miss him.
There will be a Celebration of Life Service at the Seventh Day Adventist church in Fall River Mills, Ca. on Saturday, December 20, 2008 at 2 p.m. There will be a Potluck afterwards.

Sports

Unbeaten Modoc passed over for state title game

Hamilton City, with a 10-2 record and the North Section Division III title winner, got the nod as the Northern California team for the small schools division in the state football bowl championships, edging out Modoc.

They will meet St. Margaret's of San Juan Capistrano at 4:30 p.m. Friday at the Home Depot Center in Carson.

"We wish Hamilton City luck," said Modoc coach Shaun Wood, who believes his 12-0 Braves deserved the shot at the state title, since they were the only unbeaten team in the north.

Block M tourney starts today

The 52nd annual Block M Basketball Tournament is set December 18, 19, and 20 at the Modoc High Gymnasium in Alturas.

The tourney includes varsity and junior varsity boys and girls competition from five regional schools. Teams are included from Modoc, Chester, University Prep, Tulelake, and Surprise Valley.

Braves second in Northeast Classic

Modoc's Braves finished second in their Modoc Northeast Classic wrestling tournament last weekend, losing to a strong Woodcreek team out of Sacramento, 236 points to 162.50.

Modoc coach Shaun Wood said the Woodcreek crew was solid, but he was pleased the Braves beat Corning, Anderson and Lassen, all bigger schools.

Corning finished with 143, Anderson 132, Lassen 103,50, Crane 98, Etna 64, Mt. Shasta 63.5, Chester 45.5, Corning II 32, Portola 31, Chiloquin 29, Fall River 28, Modoc II 26, Big Valley 24, Tulelake 12, Crane II 11, Chester II 10, Lassen II 10, Burney 8, Modoc III, Anderson II 6, Weed II 3 and Crane III 2.

Modoc girls win pair at Portola

Modoc's varsity girl's team won two of three games at the Portola tournament last weekend, preparing for this weekend's Block M Tournament in Alturas.
The Block M starts today and runs through Saturday.

December 25th, 2008

News

Cold, wet December continues

Don't look for any relief from the cold and wet winter storms for the coming week. A white Christmas is definitely in the picture as forecasts are calling for several days of snowstorms and snow showers.

Over the last week more than 12 inches of snow have fallen in Alturas, with about eight inches still blanketing the ground Tuesday. A thaw on Dec. 21 had melted much of the snowpack as the temperature reached a balmy high of 37 degrees.

Nov. jobless rate spikes

The unemployment rate for Modoc County jumped to 11.2 percent for November, well above last year's 7.6 percent and above October's 9.1 percent.

The jobless rate has been on a steady upswing from September's 8.2 percent to October's 9.1 percent.

According to the state Employment Development Department, the number of unemployed jumped from Oct. 08's 380 to 450 for November. That's markedly above November 2007 when 300 people were listed as unemployed.

Hamilton City crushed by St. Margaret's

Hamilton City's football team was crushed by St. Margaret's 59-7 in the California Small Schools State Championship Bowl game. St. Margaret's of San Juan Capistrano now has a 43-game winning streak.

The 10 CIF Section Commissioners chose Hamilton City, the Division III North Section champion with a 10-2 record over Division IV Champion Modoc, which sported a 12-0 record, to represent the North State's Small Schools.

Tribe closes Thoms Creek Road

The Tribal Council of the Pit River Tribe has closed the Thoms Creek access Road from U.S. 395 effective immediately.

The road will be closed and gated, but access to emergency vehicles will be permitted. Homeowners in Thoms Creek will not be allowed to use that road.

Entrance and exit from the Thoms Creek subdivision remains off State Route 299 East, heading to Cedar Pass.

The Road closure was an agenda item on the Modoc County Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday.

Obituaries:

Estella Sherer

Estella Mae Sherer of Canby, CA passed away December 15, 2008, in Alturas, CA. She was 91. She was born to LaFe and Annie Harris on June 23, 1917, at Buzzards Roost, Shasta County, CA and spent much of her early life in the Fiddletown area of Amador County

A memorial service for Mrs. Sherer will be held at a later date (Spring) with Kerr Mortuary in charge of arrangements.

Wanda Slinkard

Wanda Sue Slinkard, 59, passed away on Friday, December 19, 2008, in Reno, Nevada. Services will be held at Kerr Mortuary Chapel in Alturas, CA on Friday, December 26, 2008, at 1p.m. Burial to follow at the Alturas Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Humane Society, as Wanda loved all cats.

William Peterposten

William Tell "Bill" Peterposten, 87, passed away peacefully at his home in Reno, Nevada on December 12, 2008. He was born in Reno, October 11, 1921, and lived in California much of his life. He attended Greenville, Alturas, and Cedarville high schools, excelling in track.

Funeral services will be held Monday, December 29, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. at Grace Church, 1220 Robb Drive, Reno. Donations may be made to the Circle of Life Hospice, 1575 Delucchi Lane, Suite 214, Reno, NV 89502, or the American Lung Association.

Sports

Modoc girls go 2-1 in Block M, Boys 1-2

Modoc varsity girl's team went 2-1 in the Block M tournament over the weekend, earning first place in the round-robin affair, beating second place University Prep in their game.

University Prep also went 2-1 in the tourney. Tulelake was third and Chester fourth.

Modoc's varsity boys finished 1-2 in the tourney, placing third. Tulelake won the event with University Prep second. Chester was fourth. Modoc girls go 2-1 in Block M, Boys 1-2.

Wood wins Reno Wrestling title

Modoc's Josh Wood won the huge Reno Tournament of Champions
215-pound division over the weekend, beating Calvary Chapel's (Santa Ana) Tank Knowles 4-2 in the title match.

Wood went 6-0 in the tourney, beating wrestlers from New York, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma and others along the way. There were 82 schools from throughout the nation at the tournament, and 64 wrestlers per bracket. Knowles in ranked third in the state of California and Wood is ranked number one.