2014 Archives

January 2014 January 2 January 9 January 16 January 23 January 30 February 2014 February 6 February 13 February 20 February 27 March 2014 March 6 March 13 March 20 March 27 April 2014 April 3 April 10 April 17 April 24 May 2014 May 1 May 8 May 15 May 22 May 29 June 2014 June 5 June 12 June 19 June 26

July 2014 July 3, 2014 July 10, 2014 July 17, 2014 July 24, 2014 July 31, 2014 August 2014 Aug. 7, 2014 Aug. 14, 2014 Aug. 21, 2014 Aug. 28, 2014 September 2014 Sept. 4, 2014 Sept. 11, 2014 Sept. 18, 2014 Sept. 25, 2014 October 2014 Oct. 2, 2014 Oct. 9, 2014 Oct. 16, 2014 Oct. 23, 2014 Oct. 31, 2014 November 2014 Nov. 6, 2014 Nov. 13, 2014 Nov. 20, 2014 Nov. 27, 2014 December 2014 Dec. 4, 2014 Dec. 11, 2014 Dec. 18, 2014 Dec. 25, 2014

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2014 Archives

January 2, 2014

News

MMC Auxiliary provides major upgrade to hospital

The Modoc Medical Center Auxiliary was very proud to present Modoc Medical Center with $12,711 for the purchase of a cardiac telemetry monitoring system, $10,000 of which came from the McConnell Foundation Fund grant.  
“This is the first grant written by the MMC Auxiliary and hopefully not the last.  This grant and the purchase of the system was made possible by the work of many people within MMC, the Auxiliary and the community,” said Lau Miller, Auxiliary Vice President.
A telemetry unit is a unit in a hospital where patients are under continuous electronic monitoring.  Telemetry is a tremendously useful tool as it allows hospital personnel to monitor heart rate, heart rhythm, breathing and other vital signs by the patient’s bed and in a remote location at the nursing station.  Patients are admitted to a telemetry unit when a physician feels that they could benefit from intensive monitoring for cardiac issues or serious illness.  Changes in the vital signs being monitored can indicate that a patent is about to experience a problem and nurses and physicians can quickly correct the issue before it endangers the patient.
 “We are so grateful to the Auxiliary and the McConnell Foundation for this generous gift to improve our ability to deliver care,” said Michele McQuillan, Chief Nursing Officer.

Modoc fails in 1st round for new jail funds

Modoc County was unsuccessful in its initial question of a state grant or a new jail through SB 1022 legislation. An additional round of funding could be in the offing and Modoc will be ready for that event.
Sheriff Mike Poindexter and Sgt. Dab Nessling traveled to Sacramento on December 4 and were scheduled for a 10-minute presentation of the County’s needs assessment that afternoon before the SB 1022 Executive Steering Committee.
“We received numerous positive comments from several panel members as well as Harry Munyon of TRG consulting which left us, cautiously optimistic,” Poindexter said this week. 
The conditional funding recommendations were released the following week and Modoc was not approved. Counties requested funding for jail construction under SB 1022 guidelines to help accommodate programs and the influx of Assembly Bill 109 inmates. Those are select non-violent state inmates now being housed in County Jails instead of state prisons.
Over 1.3 billion dollars was requested, from thirty-six counties. “Unfortunately, only 500 million dollars was made available under SB 1022,” said Poindexter said. “Ultimately, 12 counties were fully funded, with an additional three being partially funded.

Devil’s Garden radio site used by P-38 pilots

Winter weather can cause cabin fever for many people. Exploring remote places are out. The chances of sliding off the road or getting stuck in a snow drift are likely. The chances of meeting another person to help you get unstuck, are not so likely.      
Technology has now advanced to the point where the adventurer can safely go out on the Devil’s Garden in the middle of winter, if he goes virtually.
Using Google Earth,(a computer program that has photographed the earth’s surface from satellites), a person can ‘fly’ across the Garden and find all sorts of interesting places to explore when the weather gets better. Or for the more practical minded, find dead trees to cut for firewood without having to drive down all sorts of bumpy roads.
One local was cruising at approximately 200 feet altitude looking for dead firewood trees when he spotted an unusual array on the ground. It was obviously man made and looked like what might be termed a stick shaped spider man. There were no fresh tire tracks around the place.
Not being able to figure out what it was, he started asking aroundEventually local realtor Gordon Dick was called and said he had flown the Devil’s Garden on numerous occasions and used the old airport, but he didn’t know about the place in question. However he made the suggestion to call Chic and Penny Keeny of Alturas.
“If there’s only one person in the world who knows about what that is, it’ll be Chic,” said Dick.
A short talk with the Keenys revealed that Chic had been to the site and knew exactly what it had been used for.
 “The place was a radio station that was used to communicate with the P-38 pilots using the airport about five miles to the south,” explained Keeny, a radio expert.
The fact that the place was in the middle of nowhere and had no electricity was no deterrent to its use.

Fire positions open on MNF

The Modoc National Forest will be filling numerous fire positions in 2014 and the opportunity to apply is open to interested applicants. Duty locations for the various engine operator and wildland fire apprentice positions include Alturas, Cedarville, Tulelake, Adin and Canby.
The Outreach Notice can be found on the forest website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/modoc under Employment Opportunities. The notice includes announcement numbers, necessary steps to apply, forest information and contacts at the duty locations.
Candidates submit their applications on the USAJOBS website at http://www.usajobs.gov. You must set up and have a USAJOBS profile to start the application process. The deadline for submitting applications is 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, January 27, 2014.

Obituaries:

Anna Mae Rose Ulrich
Anna Mae Rose Ulrich was born in Fall River Mills, California on the night of September 25, 2012 to proud parents Crystal Ann Huff and Roger George Ulrich III with Grandma Carolann and Great Grandma Gidget by their side.
Anna went to heaven while holding her mommy’s hand on December 15, 2013 in Reno, NV. She was almost 15 months old.
A Celebration of Life service was held December 22 at the Canby Fire Hall, followed by a time of fellowship.
Please send any donations to help her mommy to: Crystal Huff, PO Box 208, Canby, CA 96015.

Devin Robert Bell
Devin Robert Bell passed away of natural causes in his sleep at his Alturas, CA home on November 22, 2013. He was 53. Devin was born in Fallbrook, CA on March 24, 1960 to Bonnie and Chuck Bell. He was a twin and one of four children.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2014 at 11 a.m. at the Fourth Street Baptist Church in Alturas. Pastor Ed Allen will conduct the service, open to everyone. A potluck will follow. For information regarding the service or potluck, please call Johnny G. at 530-640-2003. Devin was laid to rest in Southern California.

Ross Johnson
Ross Johnson was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, generous volunteer and friend to many.  He showed much Courage and Spirit throughout his life. He passed away on Dec. 24, 2013, after a 20-month courageous battle with colon cancer. He was 68 years old.
Born on Feb. 6, 1945, Ross at age 6 was adopted by the late Herman and Margaret Johnson, along with his younger brother, Dave Johnson.
The family is planning a “Celebration of his Wonderful Life” on Saturday, Jan. 25 at Four Seasons in El Dorado Hills. Donations may be made “in honor or memory of Ross Dale Johnson” to Snowline Hospice snowlinehospice.org. Arrangements by Green Valley Mortuary; visit http://goo.gl/NNDAVD

Sports

Modoc wrestlers head to Anderson

Modoc’s wrestling team heads to the Anderson tournament this weekend, where some of the top wrestlers in the section will compete.
Coach Shaun Wood expects Ethan Dunn and Tristan Osborne to do well in the event and can see Cody Tiffany also doing well. He also feels several of his younger wrestlers may surprise some people.
Last week, some of the teams went to the Sierra Nevada Class in Reno where Dunn and Osborne made it into the second day of the huge event. Several of the wrestlers in that tourney are ranked in their states and some nationally. Dunn went 4-2 in the event, Osborne was 3-2 and Tiffany was 2-2.

Kids handle cold for hunt

There is something to be said about the resilience and perseverance of Modoc’s J.A.K.E.S. (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship) Junior Hunters. Instead of sitting at home in front of the television or playing video games, these kids endured frigid cold temperatures to do what they love best…hunt!
On December 7, 2013, the Modoc Limbhanger’s Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) sponsored the 9th Annual J.A.K.E.S. Junior Hunt. The hunt took place on Alturas Ranches near Alturas.
Around 8 a.m., despite the minus eleven degree temperature outside, and a wind chill factor that felt like minus thirty-five, enthusiastic junior hunters began to arrive at the hunt location. They were all set to brave the cold in hot pursuit of chukar (game birds).
Before the hunt started, everyone was able to get out of the cold and warm up inside a large wall tent. The tent had a little woodstove in it with a nice cozy fire going. Hovered around the woodstove, enjoying donuts and hot chocolate, the kids took in the last little bit of warmth before heading out into the freezing temperatures.

Modoc JVs win pair in Block M

Modoc’s junior varsity girl’s team won two and lost one in the Block M Tournament.
Las Plumas whipped the Braves 34-25 in the opening game. The Braves kept it close, tailing 6- 2 in the first and 15-10 at halftime. By the end of the third, Modoc trailed 21-16, but Las Plumas outscored them 13-9 in the fourth.
Kylee Ward led Modoc with seven points.
The Braves beat Lakeview 28-18 in the second game. They led 8-3 in the first and 10-5 at the half. Modoc outscored Lakeview 18-13 in the second half.
Macie Larranaga led with eight points and Ward had six.
Modoc beat Weed 30-23 in the third game; even with a tough second half. The Braves led 6-4 in the first and 20-6 at halftime. Weed outscored them 17-10 in the second half. Larranaga had eight points and Melissa Knoch had five.

January 9, 2014

News

Candidates positioning for June primary

Candidates for local offices in the June 3 Primary Election are starting the process now for nomination.
While there was apparently some initial confusion at the County Clerk level, candidates for county offices could start collecting signatures-in-lieu of filing fees from Dec. 27 through Feb. 20. The actual declaration of candidacy is between Feb. 10 and March 7.
For proper forms and more information, contact the County Clerk’s Office.
Those offices on the ballot for the County include the District Attorney, County Sheriff, County Treasurer, County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk, and Assessor.
In addition, Modoc County Supervisors David Allan of District One and Geri Byrne of District Five are up for re-election. Allan and Byrne have said they will run again.
Modoc Sheriff Mike Poindexter has also indicated he will run as will Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch, Assessor Cheri Budmark, District Attorney Jordan Funk, and Auditor-Recorder Darcy Locken.
At this point, there appear to be challengers collecting signatures in the race for Sheriff, including Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes.
Two Alturas City Councilmen are up for re-election, Mayor John Dederick and Councilman Keith Jacques. Dederick will seek re-election and Jacques has said he will not seek re-election.
The candidate-filing period for City offices is Feb. 10 through March 7. Information and forms can be obtained at the City Clerk’s Office.
In addition, City Treasurer Heather MacDonnell will seek election.
In addition, there will be a recall election for Supervisor Jim Wills April 8.

Public hearing on Big Valley special district

A public hearing is scheduled for Jan. 14 at about 11 a.m. at the Modoc County Board of Supervisors meeting at Alturas City Hall.
Supervisors will conduct a public hearing regarding a resolution of application to the Modoc Local Agency Formation Commission requesting initiation of proceedings to form the Southern Cascades Community Services District.
The purpose of the proposed district is to provide emergency medical and ambulance service in the Big Valley area including territory within both Modoc and Lassen Counties.  The district as proposed will consist of territory in and surrounding the communities of Adin, Bieber, Lookout, NuBieber and Termo.

Modoc Fair gets needed influx of funds for 2014

The Modoc District Fair will be operable, with some changes for 2014, thanks in no small part to another $50,000 donation from the Mark and Jessie Milano Foundation.
“The Modoc District Fair is pleased to announce the Milano Foundation has donated $50,000 to the Modoc District Fair for the 2014 Fair year,” said Fair Manager Danette DePaul. “We can’t thank them enough for the generosity and support of the Fair and Modoc.”
The Fair will also be receiving $25,000 from the San Diego County Fair, Del Mar, and an additional $25,000 from the State of California for operating funds during the 2014 calendar year. 
The Fair has also carved $100,000 out of the operating Budget and reduced the Manager position to half time from three-quarter time and the maintenance supervisor position to three-quarter time from full-time. 

Fire destroys trailer in Cedarville park

Quick thinking and fast action by two youngsters, neighbors and the Cedarville Fire Department saved the Wishy Washy Trailer Park from potential disaster Tuesday night.
Twelve-year-old Esmirelda Munoz looked out her house trailer window and saw that her neighbor’s trailer was on fire. She quickly told her 16-year-old sister Rocio, who ran and told her dad, Ben Munoz.
Ben and his brother Jose Munoz ran outside and shut off the propane tank lines to the burning trailer while Rocio called 911. Ben got a garden hose and started spraying the propane tank to help cool it off. Jose ran to the front door of the burning trailer and helped remove Jelenne Anglea, age 80, out of her home and to safety.
Jennifer Hill and Karla Whisler drove by and saw Anglea clad only in her nightgown. The two women helped Anglea into their warm car and out of the freezing weather. The women stayed with her until an ambulance arrived and transported her to the hospital. Anglea was treated for smoke inhalation and kept overnight.
Anglea lost everything she owned, including her three dogs, in the fast burning fire.

Anderson Retires from the Forest Service

Kimberly Anderson, Modoc National Forest Supervisor, retired January 3 after more than 33 years in the Forest Service.  Anderson served as the Modoc Forest Supervisor for three years.
During her Modoc tenure she promoted efforts such as interagency cooperation on the implementation of the Sage Steppe Ecosystem Restoration Strategy, the Barry Point Fire Salvage project and the Wild Horse Territory Management Plan.  

Obituaries

Virginia Pierce

Virginia (Crinklaw) Pierce of Alturas passed away January 3, 2014 in Alturas, CA. She was 93 and was one of a very select and dwindling cadre of women in the United States who was honored by the U.S. Congress in 2010 with a Congressional Gold Medal for service with the Women’s Air Force Service Pilots, WASP, of World War II.
Virginia Crinklaw was born in Oxnard, CA on August 30, 1920.
At Virginia’s request, no services will be held. Her loving family includes her son Kern Hunewill of Newman, CA. Her obituary will follow next week.

Robert E. Radkey
Robert Emil Radkey passed away in Alturas, CA on January 1, 2014 at the age of 83. A resident of Modoc County for the past 20 years, Mr. Radkey was born in Salem, Oregon on May 5, 1931.
Pastor Rod Bodmer will conduct services at the Radkey residence in the spring. Services entrusted to Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Sports

Dunn wins Anderson tourney

Modoc’s Ethan Dunn won the huge Anderson wrestling tournament last weekend. Dunn the number one ranked wrestler in the Division at 138 pounds, wrestled up one weight in Anderson and won the 145-pound division.
Dunn is also ranked 14th in the state and is still recovering from a broken finger.
As a team, the Braves finished in a very respectable 10th place, out of 29 schools, mostly bigger than Modoc. They finished ahead of Anderson and Enterprise.
Three Braves, 132-pound Alex Valencia, 128-pound Stephen Aceves and 220-pound Tristan Osborne placed fourth in the tourney. Freshman Kaden Knight-MacDonnell won the junior varsity division at 152 pounds.
Modoc heads to the Lassen Tournament this weekend, where coach Shaun Wood expects some strong performances.

Braves win Klamath Klash hoop tourney

The Modoc Braves varsity basketball team won the Klamath Klash basketball tourney last weekend, beating Gold Beach 54-42 in the title game.
The Braves opened Shasta Cascade League play Tuesday night against Mt. Shasta and are at Weed Jan. 10.
The Braves beat Tulelake 57-42 in the semi final game.
Modoc beat Lakeview 57-48 to open the tourney, leading 16-10 in the first and 28-19 at halftime. Each team scored 29 points in the second half.
The Braves finished the pre-season 9-3 and ranked fourth in the Division V by MaxPreps. Liberty Christian is ranked number one, followed by Mt. Shasta, Weed, Modoc, and Fall River.
Modoc lost 56-46 at Mt. Shasta in the opener of Shasta Cascade play Tuesday. The first quarter was tightly contested and the Bears led 10-9. The score was 24-20 at halftime and 42-33 after three.

Modoc girls 1-2 in tourney

The Modoc girl’s varsity basketball team won one and lost two in last weekend’s Klamath Klash tourney.
They met Mt. Shasta Tuesday night and head to Weed Friday to start Shasta Cascade League play.
The Braves opened with a 41-39 overtime win against Tulelake
Lakeview toppled the Braves 52-39 in the second game, getting off to a 16-6 first period lead.
Bonanza nipped the Braves in the final game 34-33.
Modoc lost to Mt. Shasta 39-23 Tuesday in a game where the team shot just 19 percent. The Bears led 15-4 in the first and 25-12 by the half. They outscored Modoc 14-11 in the second half. Modoc’s junior varsity girls lost to Mt. Shasta 41-24. The trailed 10-0 in the first and 13-8 by halftime. The Bears led 32-16 after three.

Cedar Pass Snow Park in survival mode

Cedar Pass Snow Park, the local winter recreation area, can no longer afford the huge insurance policy required by the Forest Service.
Jane Biggerstaff, Special Usage at the Forest Service, is looking to see if there might be some other type of permit that would allow a nonprofit, all volunteer corporation like the Snow Park to operate without impossibly high insurance costs.
The County has also been approached to see if there would be any way they could help; but the Park hasn’t heard anything back yet.
“If anybody out there has any ideas, let us know,” Park officials said. “It would be a shame to lose our only family winter recreation area. It has been in existence since the mid 1930s. Hopefully, we can find a way to keep it going. We will keep you updated, watch for further articles.”
The park can be reached at: cedarpasssnowpark3323@gmail.com,  cedarpasssnowpark.com and Facebook.

January 16, 2014

News

Modoc supports Big Valley ambulance district

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday voted unanimously to support the formation of the Southern Cascades Community Services District, to provide medical and ambulance services for Big Valley.
News was also received during the Modoc meeting that Lassen County Supervisors also voted in support. The CSD will cover property in both Modoc and Lassen Counties. The issue will now go on to the Local Agency Formation Commission and hopefully to a vote of the voters in the proposed district.
The Board also agreed to put up the funding for the election on the district, estimated at about $5,000. Those funds would be repaid by the district if the effort is successful.
The purpose of the proposed district is to provide emergency medical and ambulance service in the Big Valley area including territory within both Modoc and Lassen Counties.  The district as proposed will consist of territory in and surrounding the communities of Adin, Bieber, Lookout, NuBieber and Termo.

Property tax question muddled

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday ordered staff to come back with a detailed report on property tax allocations from 2006 through 2013. That order came after a closed session.
Earlier in the meeting, Auditor Darcy Locken told the Board there might be some problems unearthed in a property tax audit. She said she didn’t have exact figure, but estimated that property tax overpayments to several local agencies, including schools, the city and special districts could amount to between $700,000 to $1 million. Those allocations are figured out of the Auditor’s office.
The serious question the issue raises is whether those entities would have to refund the overpayments to the County.
In at least one instance, the City of Alturas had received what it thought was an overpayment. While Locken was contacted by the City on the issue, she maintained the allocation was correct. The City however, will not use those funds until there is a proper accounting.
It’s unclear whether the auditor has informed agencies that there may be an overpayment, but it the City’s case, she had not. The issue will come back to the Board with a staff report in the near future.
The Board also elected Jim Wills, District Four Supervisor as Chairman this year and District Three’s Kathie Alves serves as vice chair.
Carlson is new acting Forest Supervisor 

Ann Carlson is new MNF Supervisor

The Modoc National Forest announces the arrival of Ann Carlson as the Acting Forest Supervisor. Carlson will serve a 120-day detail on the Modoc.
Carlson has been with the Forest Service for 24 years. She started her career on the Tahoe National Forest and was the Forest Fisheries Program Manager from 1989-2003.
She has served as the Regional Aquatic Ecologist in the Northern Region in Missoula, Montana, Acting District Ranger in South Dakota and is currently the District Ranger on the Eagle Lake Ranger District on the Lassen National Forest where she has worked for three years.
Carlson has also completed the Prescribed Fire Workshop for Agency Administrators, the Forest Service Senior Leader Program and has been involved in fire management.

June Primary draws interest

Candidates for local offices in the June 3 Primary Election have until March 7 to file, and there is some interest in some races.
Candidates for county offices can collect signatures-in-lieu of filing fees through Feb. 20. The actual declaration of candidacy is between Feb. 10 and March 7.
For proper forms and more information, contact the County Clerk’s Office.
Those offices on the ballot for the County include the District Attorney, County Sheriff, County Treasurer, County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk, and Assessor.
In addition, Modoc County Supervisors David Allan of District One and Geri Byrne of District Five are up for re-election. Allan and Byrne have said they will run again.
Modoc Sheriff Mike Poindexter has also indicated he will run as will Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch, Assessor Cheri Budmark, District Attorney Jordan Funk, and Auditor-Recorder Darcy Locken.

Obituaries:

Virginia Pierce
A diminutive woman sits in the back of an Alturas courtroom knitting hats for cancer patients, every once in awhile she puts aside her knitting and watches the proceedings.
“I find that attending trials is much more interesting than watching soaps on TV. It’s real life,” said Virginia Crinklaw Pierce.
Real life is what Virginia Pierce was all about.
She was a brine shrimp harvester, high school teacher at Surprise Valley High School until age 72, taught in Alturas, was a judge, justice of the peace and sailed around Hawaii in a catamaran with rocket scientist Werner Von Braun, but these things were not the most colorful aspect of her past.
During WWII she was selected to become a member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), and was one of the first women in history to fly military aircraft.
Virginia Crinklaw Pierce was born in Oxnard, Calif., Aug. 30, 1920. On January 3, 2014 she joined many of her flying companions, soaring not only into the skies, but into history.
She is survived by her son Kern Hunewill of Newman, CA and several grandchildren. At Virginia’s request, no services will be held.

Sports

Modoc beats rival Weed

Modoc defeated league rival Weed 57-51 on the road Friday night. They have Fall River at home Friday night.
The Braves built a 43-25 lead through three quarters. Weed mounted an impressive comeback in the fourth quarter.
Modoc beat Burney 68-36 in Alturas on Tuesday night. The Braves shared the ball and racked up 22 assists in the game. Modoc shot a respectable 55 percent from the floor. Modoc improves to 11-4 overall and 2-1 in Shasta Cascade League play. Modoc hosts Fall River on Friday.
Modoc’s junior varsity fell to Weed 60-13 in a lopsided game. Weed led 22-3 in the first and 36-5 by halftime. The score was 50-9 before Modoc finally broke into double digits in the fourth.
The JV also lost to Burney on Tuesday 43-36 but had a better outing. Burney led 16-11 in the first and Modoc took an 18-17 lead into halftime. The game was knotted at 25 after three and Burney won the fourth 18-11.

Weed topples Modoc girls

The Weed Cougars toppled the Modoc Braves girls varsity 40-21 in Weed Friday night. Modoc faces Fall River at home this Friday.
Modoc never got on track against Weed, trailing 12-4 in the first and 23-10 by The girls trounced Burney here Tuesday 63-25, led by a 23-point night from Derner and 16 points from Pricila Madrigal.
Modoc led 11-6 in the first, but exploded for a 31-13 lead by half and led 49-20 after three.
Modoc’s junior varsity also fell to Weed 36-28.

Wrestlers head to Bonanza

Modoc’s wrestling team heads to the Bonanza tournament January 18, coming off a very tough Lassen Tourney.
The Braves finished eighth out of 16 schools in Susanville, but most of those schools were much bigger than Modoc, said coach Shaun Wood.
Modoc’s Cody Tiffany finished third at 120 pounds and Allen Clark took third at heavyweight. Tristan Osborne placed fourth at 220 pounds and Jose Correa was fourth at heavyweight.
Fifth places went to Alex Valencia at 132 pounds and David Buckley at 152 pounds. Coming in sixth place were Tim Reed at 113 pounds and Stephen Aceves at 126 pounds.

January 23, 2014

News

County Treasurer removes school fund protections

Modoc County Treasurer-Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch has informed County Schools that she will no longer hold school funds in a separate account in the County Treasury.
That decision, which was made without consulting with the schools, was met with shock and serious concern.
“The County Treasurer's letter addresses several issues and documents her decision,” said Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones. “I wish she would have met with someone representing the schools a couple of months ago and explained all this prior to her decision. She makes valid points. However, in light of the 2009 agreement between the County Treasurer and the schools and without any discussion, there was no opportunity for the schools to present their concerns or suggest alternatives.”
Jones said two events in the last week trouble him as County Superintendent.
“One, the County Treasurer informed the schools, that on the first of January, she had removed the fence between the schools’ assets and the county government’s assets,” he said. “Two, the County Auditor emailed me that she had made mistakes with property taxes, after The Modoc County Record reported the fact. Both the County Treasurer and County Auditor could have contacted me and asked to meet to discuss their problems. I understand that leaders face difficulties that appear overwhelming, but solutions are found through the help of others.
I would prefer to offer ideas and suggestions, rather than criticize. Yet, when information is incomplete, inaccurate, and untimely, I cannot ignore poor practices that negatively affect the schools.
“The effort to withhold bad news as long as possible and blame others rather than admitting mistakes is inexcusable. It must stop; it serves no good purpose.”

Recall election April 8 has challenger

The recall election of District Four Supervisor Jim Wills is set for April 8 and one candidate, Dan Lowry, has filed to challenge if Wills is recalled.
The most important of the two questions on the ballot will ask if Wills should be recalled and the second will include Wills and the challenger.
If the vote to recall is no, then the second question is moot.
The recall committee barely had enough valid signatures to qualify the recall after taking the entire 60 days allotted to collect them. They collected 353 signatures, but only 269 were deemed valid and they needed at least 259.
Wills is actively fighting the recall effort and is now serving as Chairman of the Board. He was elected to that position by the other four Board members.

Drought conditions prompt state of emergency

With California facing water shortfalls in the driest year in recorded state history, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. has proclaimed a State of Emergency and directed state officials to take all necessary actions to prepare for these drought conditions.
 “We can’t make it rain, but we can be much better prepared for the terrible consequences that California’s drought now threatens, including dramatically less water for our farms and communities and increased fires in both urban and rural areas,” said Governor Brown. “I’ve declared this emergency and I’m calling all Californians to conserve water in every way possible.”
Alturas is at about 44 percent of its annual precipitation levels for 2013, with just 6.29 inches measured. Normal averages are at 14.17 inches. From October 2013 through the end of December 2013, only .65 inches of precipitation fell, well below the average of 4.51 inches. So far in January, just .02 inches of precipitation has been measured, as opposed to the average of .85 to date. The average monthly January precipitation is 1.65 inches and no rain is predicted for the next six days.
There is precious little snow in the mountains as of January 22. Dismal Swamp has just 17 inches, Cedar Pass has just 10 inches, Adin Mountain has two inches and Crowder Flat has none.
Last year at this time Cedar Pass now had 23 inches of snow, Adin Mountain had 26 inches and Crowder Flat had 16 inches and Dismal Swamp showed 53 inches of snow.
The snow pack in January, 2013 was fairly healthy as follows: Cedar Pass 37 inches; Adin Mountain 23 inches; Dismal Swamp 64 inches and Crowder Flat nine inches.

BV ambulance district progresses

The next big step for the proposed Southern Cascades Community Services District, to provide medical and Advanced Life Support ambulance services for Big Valley, is a Lassen County Local Agency Formation Commission, LAFCO, public hearing Feb. 14, 3 p.m. at the Lassen County Board of Supervisors chambers.
The district includes property in both Lassen and Modoc Counties and since the majority of the property value is in Lassen, the Lassen LAFCO takes the lead. If the project is approved by LAFCO, the next step will be for Lassen and Modoc County Supervisors to call for an election. The target date for that election is the June 3 primary. It will take a two-thirds majority for the district to pass.
A working group of about 20 community members, led by Valerie Endicott and Clinton Davis, has been working on the ambulance district issue for months and will face the task of convincing voters in the proposed district to vote in favor it and a flat rate tax of $65 per unique parcel per year. Individual unique parcel owners will be taxed for a maximum of two parcels, $130 per year within the CSD, regardless of how many separate parcels their own in either county.
One issue that has cropped up, said working group member Dan Bouse, is some questions about the role of the Big Valley Endowment Foundation. He said the Foundation has an ambulance fund, aimed primary at building an ambulance station in Adin. That project has been in the works, but is funded primarily through community fundraisers, charitable donations and some grant funding. The Foundation could not begin to fund a continuing ambulance service, but will be supportive.
The Endowment Foundation also supports a wide variety of projects in the Big Valley area, including youth activities and sports, senior citizens and other non-profit organizations, public entities and individuals that will “promote the improvement of Big Valley as a whole.” Two of their major fundraisers are the Crab Feed and the “Taste of the Valley.”

Modoc bumps up fire staffing

 Over the weekend, Modoc National Forest firefighters were dispatched to a wildfire about seven miles north of Adin, Calif. The Rush Fire was suppressed at three acres; the cause of the fire is under investigation.
 The extended weather forecast shows dry and warm conditions continuing across the region. Due to the possibility of increased fire activity, the Modoc Interagency Communications Center is implementing seven-day staffing to respond to new fire starts.
 Modoc officials urge the public to remember fire safety at all times. “Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility,” said Dave McMaster, Modoc Fire Management Officer. “The vegetation is very dry and can be easily ignited. Please be extremely cautious with any activity that may cause a wildfire.”

Obituaries—

Edna Amelia Griswold
Edna Amelia Schnack was born on August 9, 1922 in New Liberty, Iowa. She grew up in that state and finished her education in Davenport, Iowa.
Edna passed in the presence of God peacefully on January 3, 2014 in Long Beach, CA. Funeral services were held January 8, 2014 and Interment was at Rose Hills Memorial Park.

Don Hirons
Word has just been received that former Modoc resident Don Hirons passed away February 5, 2013. Born in 1927, after quitting high school to serve in the Merchant Marines, Don returned to school, graduating from Paso Robles High School. A celebration of Don’s life was held April 28, 2013 at the Wranglerette Arena.
Don passed on his respect and love for all animals, love of family and guiding principles of life to his children and granddaughter. Remembrances may be directed to the family at P.O. Box 207, Creston, CA 93432.

Sports

Braves beat Fall River, Etna next

Modoc defeated Fall River 56-48 Friday night in Alturas and will face Etna here Friday.
Modoc steadily built a lead throughout the Fall River game. Modoc led 13-9 in thd first and 34-25 at halftime. They led 49-37 after three. Alan Weber led the Braves with 24 points. Tristan Axelrod scored 12 points, and Benjamin Jones added 11 points.
With the win, Modoc (3-1) moved into second place in the Shasta Cascade League, while Fall River dropped to 0-3 in SCL play.

Modoc crushes Fall River girls

Modoc’s varsity girl’s team whipped the Fall River Bulldogs 61-46 here Friday night. They host Etna this Friday.
The girls started with a 24-3 first period and led 37-19 at halftime. Modoc led 51-28 after three.
Beth Derner led the scoring with 15, while Kelsey Clay added 10 and Jordan Marquardt and Pricila Madrigal each had eight.
Modoc junior varsity girls beat Fall River 39-34. The game really wasn’t in question as Modoc took as 22-10 halftime lead and led 30-18 after three. Kylee Ward led with 14 points, Melissa Knoch added nine, while Shelby Doss and Macie Larranaga each had six.

Bacon runner-up in Cal Hi rodeo

Davis Creek’s Clayton Bacon earned second runner-up all-around cowboy at the District One California High School Rodeo Association rodeo in Red Bluff Jan. 18-19.
Bacon scored 61 points in the rodeo. He placed fifth in tie down roping and in cutting, and teamed with Kolby Bravos of Anderson to place second in team roping.
The next rodeo is Feb.15-16 in Red Bluff.

January 30, 2014

News

Communication key in treasurer issue

While an unapologetic, though slightly nervous, Modoc Treasurer Cheryl Knoch Tuesday defended her action changing the protection of school funds, Supervisors agreed communication before the change would have been advisable.
Knoch informed County Schools in a letter January 17 that she would no longer hold school funds in a separate account in the County Treasury. The decision to separate the schools’ money was made in 2009 when it was learned that the County had been using restricted funds, including the schools, to fund the operation of Modoc Medical Center to the tune of over $12 million. When school officials, including Jones learned of the activity they demanded the school funds be “fenced” in a separate account and not be used for other purposes. Knoch agreed to that demand at the time and it remained in place.
The agreement included a document signed by Knoch and school officials. Knoch apparently believes that document isn’t binding.
“I believe that when you enter into an agreement with someone or a group, you honor the agreement,” said Modoc County Schools Superintendent Gary Jones. “To do other than that undermines one's credibility. Trust is lost when people do not hold true to their word.”
Knoch had not discussed the change of fund status with school officials before sending the letter, and that did not sit well and prompted some shock and anger by school officials.
“I just want to know why there was no discussion with the schools before the letter was sent,” said Supervisor Kathie Alves. “I think that was improper, unprofessional and more communication would have been better.”
Supervisors acknowledged that since Knoch is an elected official, she had the power to make the change, but she should have had meetings with the school officials first. Supervisors have little control over elected officials, except they can set the budgets for each department.

Water right holders may face possible cutbacks
  
On January 17, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. proclaimed a drought state of emergency, directing state officials to take all necessary actions to prepare for these drought conditions.
Tuesday, Modoc Agriculture Commissioner Joe Moreo told the Board of Supervisors that the federal government is declaring western Nevada a drought emergency and as a contiguous county Modoc could be included in that declaration.
He said he saw no immediate advantage, but also saw no disadvantage either. His main message was Modoc is in a drought situation, along with the rest of California, and to “pray for rain.”
 The Governor directed the State Water Board to put water right holders throughout the state on notice that they may be directed to cease or reduce water diversions based on water shortages. An informational letter was distributed and posted on the State Water Board website, following the Governor’s proclamation.
While it has rained a little this week, it’s not nearly enough to put a dent in the drought. As of Wednesday just .04 inches of precipitation had been measured, but between a tenth and a quarter inch was expected through today.
The snow pack as of Wednesday had lessened. Cedar Pass showed seven inches at 7,030 feet; Dismal Swamp had 16 inches at 7,360 feet and Adin Mountain had one inch at 6,190 feet.

Modoc jobless rate ticks up

The December 2013 Modoc unemployment rate ticked up from November’s 10.3 percent to 10.6 percent. That’s down from December 2012 when it was 13.7 percent, according to the state Employment Development Department.
Modoc’s civilian labor force dropped from November’s 3,740 to December’s 2,670. The number of unemployed went up fro 380 to 390. That’s down starkly from Dec. 2012, when the number of unemployed was 530.
Total government jobs totaled 1,200 in December down from November’s 1220. Government accounts for over 36 percent of the jobs in Modoc. Local government had 920 employees, state government had 70 and the federal government had 210.

MMC searching got physician, moving forward

Modoc Medical Center continues to move forward, said Chief Executive Officer Kevin Kramer last week, but several priority goals remain unfulfilled.
Topping that list is the recruitment of a new physician.
So far there have been “no hits” on a new physician willing to locate in Modoc. One of the issues is the lack of local support services for a doctor, primarily in terms of other specialists in the county like cardiologists and other skills.
Kramer said locating and hiring a new doctor remains one of the number one goals. In addition, he wants to recruit one new midlevel, (nurse practioner or physician’s assistant) in the near future. A couple of those people have expressed interest and will visit the facility and community.
Kramer is looking to find five residency programs that specialize in rural physicians and visit two of those five programs by June 30, in hopes of securing a physician.
One thing that could materialize by the end of March is a return to having cataract surgery performed at MMC. Kramer said the hospital is now in negotiation and feasibility study with Dr. Mark Fay out of Klamath Falls. Dr. Fay is well known to the local population. Kramer said that program looks quite positive.

Obituaries—

Robert Goudling
Former Modoc resident and Veterinarian Robert Clovis “Dr. Bob” Goulding passed away in Auburn, CA on January 13, 2014.
 A native of Sacramento, CA, born in 1922, he graduated from McClatchy High School there and obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Washington State in Pullman, WA.
Memorials may be directed to VEF Cynthia Brush Memorial Scholarships, c/o Ken and Claudia Brush, 19724 Dixie River Road, Caldwell, ID 83607, or to your local 4-H club.
A Celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, February 8 at 1 p.m. at the Auburn Dewitt Senior Center.

Charlene Northrup
Long-time Alturas resident Charlene Marie Northrup passed away January 15, 2014 at Renown Medical Center in Reno, NV after a long-term illness. Charlene was a 1966 graduate of Modoc High School and had made the area her home for 60 years.
She was born Charlene Marie Hansen on December 21, 1947 in Sparks, Nevada.
Memorials may be directed to the American Lung Association. Services will follow at a later date to be determined by the family.

Patricia Reed
Patricia Carol Reed of Lookout, CA passed away in her sleep on January 25, 2014 in Lookout. She will be missed by many who loved her from near and afar.
Born Patricia Shelton on December 26, 1939, in Topeka, Kansas, she was one of eight children
She is being cremated and there will be no service.

Ralph Galione
Ralph John Galione, a long time resident of California Pines, unexpectedly passed away January 8, 2014 while being hospitalized at Renown Hospital in Reno, Nevada.
Ralph loved Modoc County and relocated to Cal Pines with his wife in 1994. Ralph was born November 22, 1931.

Larry Pointere
Larry Pointere entered into rest on Jan. 26, 2014 in Klamath Falls, Oregon, after a lengthy illness. Larry made his entrance into this world on Nov. 17, 1939 on “Patches Corner” in Surprise Valley, California.
We will miss him very much but at some time in the future we will all join him in rest until our savior, Jesus, comes to wake us up.
A celebration of Larry’s life will be announced at a later date.

Cory John Adkins
Cory John Adkins of Alturas, passed from this earth on December 26, 2013. He was born in Whittier, CA on November 15, 1984, but had lived in Alturas since 1992.
Should anyone care to honor Cory is some way, just do an act of kindness as often as you can.

Sports

Braves win pair against Etna

Modoc’s Braves girls and boys varsity basketball teams beat the Etna Lions last Friday. Modoc hosts Mt. Shasta Friday night and Trinity Feb. 1.
The girls won 52-42 with little trouble. They led 11-9 in the first and were tied at 21 by half. Modoc used a 14-2 third period to take a 35-23 lead into the fourth quarter when Etna fought back with a 19-17 advantage but it wasn’t enough.
Beth Derner led the way with a 23-point night. Kelly Schmidt added eight and Jordan Marquardt had seven.
The girls now sport a 3-2 Shasta Cascade League record and are 6-9 overall. SCL standings are: Weed 5-0; Mt. Shasta 3-1; Modoc 3-2; Fall River 2-3; Etna 2-3; Trinity 1-3 and Burney 0-4.
The boy’s team started slow, trailing 14-5 after one, but took 23-18 at the half The Braves outscored Etna 35-19 in the second half for the 58-37 win.
Alan Weber led the scoring with 18; Fernando Acala added 15 and Benjamin Jones had 14.
The SCL standings are: Mt. Shasta 5-0; Modoc 4-1 (13-4 overall); Weed 3-2; Trinity 2-2; Fall River 2-3; Burney 1-4; and Etna 0-5.

Modoc heads to big Corning invite

Modoc’s wrestling team heads to the big Corning tournament this weekend, where some of the top wrestlers in the region will be competing.
They will first have a dual match against Durham on Friday and then head up the road to Corning for Saturday.
Coach Shaun Wood expects several of his wrestlers to place in Corning, but stresses the event brings some of the best of the region including southern Oregon.
The Braves just finished second in the Chiloquin tourney last weekend. Several of the top varsity wrestlers voluntarily didn’t make the tourney as they prepared for Corning.
Three Braves won individual titles in Chiloquin: Tim Reed at 113 pounds; Cody Tiffany at 145 pounds and Tristan Osborne at 220 pounds.
Second place earners were: Zack Norby 132 pounds; Jarret Royce 145 pounds; and Robert Dowdy, 182 pounds.
Two wrestlers placed fourth: José Correa at heavyweight and Kyle Royce at 126 pounds.

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February 6, 2014

News

Wet period coming for area, may not be enough

The National Weather Service forecast for the next several days calls for wet and cold weather, but whether there will be enough moisture in the storms to make a major dent in the drought is in serious doubt.
As of Wednesday, no measurable precipitation had been recorded in Alturas and mountain snow pack had actually decreased.
Cedar Pass was at seven inches of snow, down from 10 inches; Adin Mountain had no snow, down from two inches; and Dismal Swamp had 13 inches, down from 18 inches. The higher peaks in the Warner Mountains now do have snow.
Accumulating snow is most likely in the mountains, but a dusting is possible over the west side valleys as well.
Snow levels will rise to 2500 feet or higher later Thursday and
Friday with additional snow accumulations limited to the mountains.
A strong warm front will move through Saturday pushing snow levels
above pass level for the remainder of the weekend. The front will
bring widespread moderate to heavy rain to much of the area this
weekend along with breezy to windy conditions to the Coast,
Mountains, and portions of the east side.
Periods of wet, unsettled weather are expected next week as well.

Possible candidates mulling county office run

There are several people considering running for local county offices in June, but they have not yet made their actions public.
Candidates for county offices can collect signatures-in-lieu of filing fees now through Feb. 20. The actual declaration of candidacy is between Feb. 10 and March 7. If an incumbent does not run, the filing period will be extended from March 8 though March 12.
For proper forms and more information, contact the County Clerk’s Office.
County offices up for election include the Superintendent of Schools, District Attorney, County Sheriff, County Treasurer, County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk, and Assessor.
In addition, Modoc County Supervisors David Allan of District One and Geri Byrne of District Five are up for re-election. Both have said they will run again.
Schools Superintendent Gary Jones is running for re-election. Sheriff Mike Poindexter, Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch, Assessor Cheri Budmark, District Attorney Jordan Funk, and Auditor-Recorder Darcy Locken have indicated they will run. Some of those elected officials are expected to be challenged.
The Auditor, Treasurer and Sheriff seem to be drawing the most attention at this point.
At this point, there is one challenger collecting signatures in the race for Sheriff, Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes.

Farm Bill with PILT funding extension included

The Regional Council of Rural Counties, RCRC, reported that last week, that the U.S. House of Representatives passed a five-year reauthorization of the nation’s agriculture and nutrition programs, known as the Farm Bill.
The bill passed the Senate on Tuesday and now must be signed into law by President Barack Obama.
The Farm Bill includes key provisions that provide a one-year extension of the federal Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, which compensates counties for the loss of property tax revenue when the federal government takes private land into federal ownership. 
Modoc’s share of PILT for 2013 is $575,467, Siskiyou is $848,643 and Lassen’s is $1,549,332.

Modoc Fair seeking community ideas, support

Community members gathered on the evening of January 28 to learn the state of the 2014 Modoc District Fair. However, they not only came to hear about the plan of action for the fair, they also addressed the fair board in regards to generating a lasting revenue for the fairgrounds to operate.
Business owners, parents, volunteers, chamber members and concerned citizens expressed to the board that not just the fair needed to be addressed.
Danette DePaul, fair manager, explained the budget cuts that had been made to sustain not only the fair but also the fairgrounds. In total, over $100,000 was trimmed from the already sparse budget. State officials had given DePaul an ultimatum earlier in the fiscal year of either closing for six months out of the year or figuring out a way to cut costs. With the fairgrounds generally running on a budget of $385,000 annually, it was a difficult decision for DePaul and board members.
With the manager salary being cut in half, the maintenance position adjusted to three quarter time and reworking other positions the administration/maintenance expenses were cut by $73,562. The queen competition has been eliminated due to costs and can be brought back if a sponsorship is found. The cash awards for entries were adjust to a $3.00, $2.00,and $1.00 payouts saving $5,000.
Advertising allocations were cut by $1,500 with DePaul explaining that print advertising costs were high and administration was going to focus towards radio spots. In addition, aiming more towards school youth with flyers and posters. Sandy Stevenson, real estate broker, stated, “When the real estate market turned, I didn’t cut my advertising, I paid for color.”
Other community members suggested offering free admission to youth.

Obituaries—

Ronald McIntyre           
Ronald Gene McIntyre, 63, of Horse Creek, passed away at his home on January 31, 2014.
Ron was born to Richard and Marion McIntyre on July 2, 1950, in Berkeley, California. Ron married the love of his life, Linda Stone, on August 29, 1971. The couple lived in Modoc County for over 30 years before moving to Horse Creek.
 At the family’s request, there will be no services for Ron. Girdner Funeral Chapel is assisting the family, and online condolences may be made at www.girdnerfuneralchapel.com.

Terry Williams
Terry Williams of Cedarville, California, passed away at the Rogue Valley Medical Center in Medford, OR, January 29, 2014, after a brief illness.
Terry was born in Portola, California in 1936.
There will be no services as per his wishes.

George Leslie Howder
George Leslie Howder passed away January 30, 2014 at Surprise Valley Health Care District in Cedarville, CA. Mr. Howder was 87.
Born in Fresno, CA on December 10, 1926. Memorial donations may be directed to “Azevedo Scholarship Assistance Plan” (ASAP), P.O. Box 462, Cedarville, CA 96104 in memory of Raquel Azevedo or donate to the charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday February 16, 2014 at 1p.m. at the Paradise Moose Lodge located at 5275 Skyway, Paradise, CA.

Larry Pointere
A Celebration of Life for Larry Pointere will be held Saturday, February 8 at 1 p.m. at the Lakeview, OR Fairgrounds. A potluck will follow. Mr. Pointere entered into rest on Jan. 26, 2014 in Klamath Falls, Oregon, after a lengthy illness.

Sports

Braves heading into SCL tourney as heavy favorites

Modoc’s wrestling team will go into this weekend Shasta Cascade League tournament as heavy favorites. The event is at Fall River Friday and Saturday.
Coach Shaun Wood said that of the 14 weight divisions, he will cover 11 and should be in the final for 10 of those. The SCL is split into two divisions: big schools which includes Modoc, Quincy, Trinity, Mt. Shasta and Etna and small schools including Fall River, Chester, Tulelake Dunsmuir and Big Valley.
Individual favorites include Ethan Dunn, Steven Aceves, Tim Reed, Cody Tiffany, Alex Valencia, Tristan Osborne, David Buckley, Jarrett Royce with probable finalists being Allen Clark and Zack Norby.
“We did really well at Corning, placing eighth and we’re peaking at the right time,” Wood said this week. “I think we should crush it. I’m very pleased with where we are now.”
The Braves were eighth out of 43 schools at the huge Corning invite last week, and the only schools that finished ahead of them were much bigger and in the upper division.
Modoc’s Steven Aceves took a third place at 122 pounds and Ethan Dunn placed third at 140 pounds.
Fifth place went to Tristan Osborne at 220 pounds, while placing sixth were Alex Valencia at 128 pounds and David Buckley at 154 pounds. Jarrett Royce was seventh at 145 pounds and Allen Clark was eighth at heavyweight while Zack Norby was eighth at 134 pounds.

Braves making mark in SCL play

Modoc’s girl’s varsity took two and lost one Shasta Cascade League game this week, while the boys split. The Braves are at Burney Feb. 7 and Fall River Feb. 11.
The girls beat Mt. Shasta Friday 52-38. They led 9-6 in the first and 19-14 at halftime. Modoc used a 9-7 third period to lead 28-21 and held off a 17-14 Bear charge in the fourth.
Beth Derner led Modoc with 18 points and Pricila Madrigal added 10.
Modoc had no trouble with Trinity at home Saturday, winning 66-34. Modoc led 12-9 in the first quarter and 31-14 by half. They outscored Trinity 34-20 in the second half.
Madrigal led the scoring with 15, Derner added 13, Kelsey Clay had nine and Jordan Marquardt and Leah Berryessa had eight each.
Modoc’s girls lost to SCL leading Weed Tuesday night here.
“We lost 44-35 in a tough game that saw us get behind 10-4, but closed at half 21-17,” said coach Bill Hall. “Weed is still in first at 8-0 while we dropped to 5-3. We have four road games left. Pricila Madrigal had a great game on defense as well as offense dropping 16 points. We are seeded seventh in the section at this time and if we can finish in second in the Shasta Cascade League, we will get a home game.”
Weed led 10-4 in the first and 21-17 at halftime, but outscored Modoc 23-18 in the second half.
Also on Tuesday Modoc’s boys lost at home to Weed 66-50. After a close first quarter, Weed blew the game open in the second.
"We need to figure out a way to play all four quarters,” said coach Keith Weber. “With the loss, Modoc drops to a second place tie with Weed in the SCL at 5-3.”
Tristan Axelrod led the Braves with 14 points, while Alan Weber and Benjamin Jones each added 12.
The boys lost to league-leading Mt. Shasta 69-48 Friday. Modoc played it close in the first half, trailing 14-12 in the first and 27-24 at halftime. But Mt. Shasta exploded for 31 points in the third period to take a 58-36 lead. Modoc added 12 in the fourth and Mt. Shasta had 11. Benjamin Jones led with 21 points and Alan Weber added 15.
The Braves beat Trinity 58-57 in a squeaker Saturday. Modoc took a 20-12 lead after one and turned that into a 34-21 halftime lead. Trinity fought back with a 17-11 third period and trailed 45-38 going into the final quarter. The Wolves outscored Modoc 19-13, but came up a point short.
Weber led the scoring with 21 and Fernando Alcala added 14.
Modoc’s junior varsity girls lost to Mt. Shasta 38-28. They led in the first 9-5, but trailed 20-14 at halftime. They didn’t score in the third and the Bears added 10. Modoc scored 14 in the fourth to Mt. Shasta’s eight.
Melissa Knoch led the scoring with seven and Kylee Ward added six.
The JVs also lost to Trinity 46-37. They fell behind 16-3 in the first and trailed 21-15 by half. Trinity scored 25 in the second half while Modoc added 22. Ward led with 11 points and Shelby Doss had nine.
Etna beat the Braves 46-44 after Modoc took a 25-17 lead into halftime. Etna scored 18 to Modoc’s 12 in the third and 11-7 in the fourth. Ward led with 20 points and Knoch had seven.
Modoc junior varsity boys played tough against Mt. Shasta, losing 43-40. They were tied at 12 in the first and led 25-20 at halftime. The Bears went up 28-27 after three and foul trouble doomed the Braves in the fourth.
The Braves fell victim to Trinity 51-27. They trailed 15-5 in the first and 29-9 by half. After three Modoc trailed 43-15.
The jayvees played Weed on Tuesday, but lost 55-38. Weed took a 21-10 first period, and led 33-22 by half. Weed led 44-28 after three.

MMS hosts basketball tourney

Modoc Middle School will host its annual basketball tournament Feb. 7 and 8 at the Griswold Gym in Alturas.
Games get underway when Burney takes on Big Valley in the A division at 9 a.m. Friday. That will be followed at 10 a.m. by a Fall River vs. Modoc B division first/second seed play-in. Fall River’s A team takes on Big Valley at 11 a.m. and Burney’s B team will take on Surprise Valley at noon.
 Modoc 6 will meet Big Valley in a B division game at 1 p.m. and Modoc’s A team will face Burney at 2 p.m.
The B division first seed winner will take on the winner of the Big Valley Modoc 6 game at 3 p.m. and the number two seed will meet the winner off the Burney-Surprise Valley game at 4 p.m.
Fall River and Modoc’s A teams will face off at 5 p.m. to round out the first day.
Elimination games will start at 10 a.m. Saturday with the B Championship set for 3 p.m. and the A Championship at 4 p.m.

February 13, 2014

News

Auditor gets challenger in June election

Modoc County Supervisor Clerk of the Board Stephanie Wellemeyer has announced her candidacy for County Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters against incumbent Darcy Locken in the June primary election.
Wellemeyer earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from Ashford University and began her career with Modoc County in 2006 under then County Clerk Maxine Madison.
“My husband and I are life-long residents of Modoc County as are our parents, Rex and Debbie Northrup and Richard and Linda Wellemeyer,” she said. “We have every intention of raising a third generation of our family in Modoc County. In order for our children to enjoy what this community provided to us, we need a functional county government free of turf wars and malicious exchanges . . . I believe that elected officials have a duty to operate with autonomy within their governmental entity in order to protect the interests of the electorate. However, I also believe that it is essential for all elected officials to work collaboratively and cooperatively with one another in order for government to work effectively and efficiently.”
Candidates for county offices can collect signatures-in-lieu of filing fees now through Feb. 20. The actual declaration of candidacy is between Feb. 10 and March 7. If an incumbent does not run, the filing period will be extended from March 8 though March 12.
For proper forms and more information, contact the County Clerk’s Office.
County offices up for election include the Superintendent of Schools, District Attorney, County Sheriff, County Treasurer, County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk and Assessor.

Board opts to hire consultant for property tax issues

Just where the County stands on property tax allocation issues, with information not completely forthcoming from Auditor Darcy Locken, prompted the Board of Supervisors to move to a consultant.
The property tax allocation issue has been percolating since Locken told the Board last month that there might have been from $700,000 to $1 million in property tax overpayments from her office to various departments.
Chief Administrative Officer Chester Robertson recommended the hiring of Craig Goodman, Certified Public Accountant, to conduct a property tax calculation for Modoc at a projected cost of $5,000. The Board initially agreed to that recommendation and voted to allow Robertson to further negotiate the contract. Robertson pointed out that Goodman had been retained by the County for other matters and has experience in property tax allocations.
The agreement calls for the process to be completed by Goodman by April 1. Locken balked at that deadline, saying she had other priorities. According to Robertson, Locken has also failed to turn over officially requested documents to the Board and that issue will be dealt with by County Counsel.

Schools will watch funds closely

Modoc County Superintendent of Schools Gary Jones issued a memo to all school staff last week concerning issues with school funding in the County Treasury, vowing that those funds will be closely watched.
The funds had been held in a separate account following the hospital fund crisis in 2009, but Treasurer Cheryl Knoch unilaterally decided to commingle the funds with county government cash. That did not sit well with school officials.
“So, school cash now flows into the same account as the county government's,” wrote Jones. “I believe there were better ways to address her concerns about managing the two accounts, but I did not have the opportunity to share my suggestions. You can be assured that the school business managers, superintendents, and school boards will watch our assets held in the treasury and will take prompt action if there is reason to believe there is a threat to those assets.”
According to Jones, on January 31 there was $25 million in the treasury, about $9 million of it belonging to schools. He stressed the schools do not have all their assets in the county treasury.
Jones also pointed out that Darcy Locken, County Auditor, calculated an over-payment of property taxes to the schools in the amount of $658,976.
He said the result will be cash being transferred from school funds to other funds managed by the county.

USFWS proposes delisting Modoc Sucker

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposes to remove the Modoc sucker, a small fish native to the upper Pit River drainage in southern Oregon and northeastern California, from the list of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife under the Endangered Species Act.
 “The proposal to remove the Modoc sucker from the Endangered Species List is a strong demonstration of how conservation partners working together can recover an endangered or threatened species,” said Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell. “Today's news is a tribute to the hard work and vision of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, private landowners and state, local and regional government officials who continue to show an example for the country in the recovery of endangered species.”
 The Modoc sucker was listed as endangered in 1985. At the time of listing, it had been extirpated from much of its range due to habitat degradation and loss from overgrazing, siltation and stream channelization. Predation from non-native fish and loss of genetic integrity of the species due to hybridization with Sacramento suckers were also identified as threats. 

Obituaries—

Ruby Riley
Ruby Pigg was born in Blanche, Missouri on November 14, 1922, to parents Arthur and Daisy Pigg. She took the opportunity to change her last name when she married Richard Carl Riley on January 8, 1939.
Ruby passed away peacefully at the age of 91, surrounded by her loving family, at Modoc Medical Center, on February 6, 2014
Services were held Monday, Feb. 10 at Church of the First Born in Alturas.
Condolences may be sent to the family at 302 So. Rine St., Alturas, CA 96101.

Linda Maxine Galloupe
Mrs. Linda Maxine Galloupe passed away peacefully at the age of 87 in Alturas, CA. on January 28, 2014. She leaves behind a legacy of love and beauty.  Born on August 9, 1926 she “excelled at everything” recalls her daughter.
A celebration of Linda’s life will be held in Alturas at a later date in the spring to be determined by the family.

Albertina “Tina” Callahan
Albertina “Tina” Mae Callahan of Adin, CA, passed away in a car accident in Lassen County, CA on December 18, 2013.
Born May 26, 1945, she was raised in Peoria, Illinois. She lived most of her adult life in Reno, Nevada on the Callahan Ranch. She had resided in Big Valley, California for the last 15 years.
A celebration of her life will be held in Adin, CA in the spring.

Sports

Braves dominate for SCL championships

Modoc’s wrestling team took 13 wrestlers to the Shasta Cascade League championships in Fall River last weekend, and 10 of them were in the final matches.
The Braves won their third straight SCL wrestling title and the 18th in 25 years of coach Shaun Wood’s tenure. Team scores were as follows: Modoc 166, Chester 105, Trinity 93, Etna 74, Mt. Shasta 59, Fall River 46, Dunsmuir 36, Quincy 30, Big Valley 23, and Tulelake four.
In the dual matches on Friday, Modoc crushed the competition as follows: Modoc 51-Trinity 15; Modoc 56-Mt. Shasta 12; Modoc 62- Quincy 0; and Modoc 60-Etna 18.
Individual SCL champions were Steven Aceves at 120 pounds; Alex Valencia at 126 pounds; Ethan Dunn at 138 pounds; David Buckley at 145 pounds; Jarrett Royce at 152 pounds; and Tristan Osborne at 220 pounds.
Placing second were: Timmy Reed at 113 pounds; Cody Tiffany at 120 pounds; Zack Norby at 138 pounds; and Allen Clark at heavyweight.
Jose Correa took third at heavyweight, while Robert Dowdy was fourth at 182 pounds and Kyle Royce was fourth at 126 pounds.
Modoc has this weekend off and then hosts the North Section Division three and four finals Feb. 22. Wood said the Division championship will be a tight battle between the Braves, Willows and Durham. He expects several of his wrestlers to take individual titles.

Hoopsters rounding out season

Modoc’s varsity boy’s team dropped a game to Fall River Tuesday night there 62-53. The loss drops Modoc to third place in the SCL at 6-4. Modoc travels to Trinity on Saturday, and will conclude league play at Etna on Tuesday.
The Braves most likely will host a home playoff game.
Fall River started with a 14-9 first period lead and led 22-17 at halftime. They outscored Modoc 40-36 in the second half. Alan Weber led with 11 points, while Fernand Acala, Tristan Axelrod and Benjamin Jones each had 10.
The varsity boys beat the Burney Raiders 63-48 Friday night on the Raiders’ home court. Modoc opened up with a 15-8 first quarter and led 30-22 by half. They outscored the Raiders 33-26 in the second half.
Alcala led the Braves with 17 points, Jones added 13 points and Tyler Ewing added 11 points. With the win, Modoc (6-3) moved to second place tie with Weed in league. Mt. Shasta (9-0) looks like a lock to win league.
North Section CIF has Modoc ranked fifth in the play-off race.
Modoc’s girls had no trouble with Burney, winning 60-36, led by Beth Derner’s 17 points. Kelsey Sphar, Jordan Marquardt and Kelly Schmidt each added seven.
Modoc led 20-5 in the first and 30-14 at halftime. They led 44-22 after three and outscored Burney 16-14 in the fourth.
The girls did not fare well against Fall River Tuesday, losing 68-49. The Bulldogs led 25-19 at halftime and buried the Braves with a 43-30 second half.
Modoc’s junior varsity girls lost a tight one with the Raiders 38-35. Modoc had a comfortable 18-10 lead in the first, but Burney came back to lead 27-26 at the half. Burney led 32-26 after three and Modoc couldn’t make it all the way back.
Kylee Ward led Modoc with 15 points and Macie Larranaga added eight.
The junior varsity boys also lost a close one, 47-45. They led 12-9 in the first period and 25-23 by the half. Burney took a 41-36 lead after three. Issac Solorio led with 24 points.
The JV boys lost to Fall River 70-50 Tuesday. They trailed 18-6 in the first and 42-15 at halftime. Modoc was behind 51-37 after three.

February 20, 2014

News

MMC gets a break on new hospital deadline

Modoc Medical Center received news last month regarding its deadline to build a replacement facility, from the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD). 
Previously, MMC had been under a 2013 deadline for construction drawings to be submitted to OSHPD and a 2020 deadline to have a replacement hospital built. 
According to hospital Chief Operating Officer Kevin Kramer, Earlier last year, MMC had submitted an application for an extension under Senate Bill (SB) 90 that would allow the facility to delay the requirements to submit drawings to OSHPD until 2015 and also delay the construction deadline to 2020. 
“As part of the application process under SB 90, we were required to conduct a HAZUS study to determine the collapsibility of the facility if an earthquake were to occur,” Kramer said. “The study took into account the likelihood of an earthquake occurring in this part of the state as well as some of the structural components of the existing hospital and generated a score for MMC that was used to determine how the hospital building should be rated and whether or not an extension should be granted.”
Based on the HAZUS study, the hospital building was re-categorized as a SPC-2 building, an improvement upon its previous categorization as a SPC-1 building.  Under Senate Bill (SB) 1953, MMC now has until 2030 to build a new hospital.

Candidates have until March 7 to file

The deadline for County candidates to file signatures-in-lieu of filing fees is today. The actual declaration of candidacy runs through March 7. If an incumbent does not run, the filing period will be extended from March 8 though March 12.
Modoc County Clerk of the Board Stephanie Wellemeyer has announced her candidacy for County Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters against incumbent Darcy Locken in the June primary election. Locken has not yet filed, but is expected to seek re-election.
Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes is challenging Sheriff Mike Poindexter. Poindexter is running again.
For proper forms and more information, contact the County Clerk’s Office.
County offices up for election include the Superintendent of Schools, District Attorney, County Sheriff, County Treasurer, County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk and Assessor.
In addition, Modoc County Supervisors David Allan of District One and Geri Byrne of District Five are up for re-election. Both are running again.
Schools Superintendent Gary Jones is running for re-election. Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch, Assessor Cheri Budmark, and District Attorney Jordan Funk are expected to run.

Some auditor tax records turned over, more needed

The erroneous property tax allocations from the Modoc County Auditor’s Office to various agencies and departments continue to be a focus of the Modoc County Board of Supervisors and the Administration Office.
To that end, The Board was forced to send a public records request to the Auditor, Darcy Locken, for release of county documents. Some of those documents have been forthcoming, but Chief Administrative Officer Chester Robertson this week said important documentation still needs to be delivered.
Locken has informed the Board and other entities that her office may have approved and sent improper property tax allocations amounting to over $750,000.
Robertson said that on January 21, his office on behalf of the Modoc County Board of Supervisors submitted a formal records request to the Modoc County Auditor/Clerk/Recorders Office for documents regarding tax allocation.
“As of the February 11 Modoc County Board of Supervisors meeting our office had not yet received documents, and therefore the office of county counsel submitted a request to the County Auditor/Clerk/Recorder,” Robertson said. “On Thursday February 13, the office received the first box of documents, and the auditor has informed our office she is in process of transmittal of additional documents. The administrative office has received several inquiries related to these documents. The document box contains a lot of records. This largely consists of supporting documentation that was used for calculations over multiple years for property tax allocations. This includes county assessed roll information, and utility roll provided by the Board of Equalization.”

USDA drought assistance in Modoc, other counties

Modoc County has received some precipitation in February, but not nearly enough to put a major dent in the current drought.
As of Wednesday, 1.24 inches of precipitation was measured at the Alturas weather station. The normal to date is .59 inches and the normal month total is 1.45 inches. Most of that moisture fell Feb. 9 with .46 inches and Feb. 12 at .23 inches.
The snowpack has improved but remained well below average. Dismal Swamp now has 36 inches of snow, well below the usual 70-plus inches. Cedar Pass has 14 inches, and should have over 30 inches. Adin Mountain had five inches and Crowder Flat has none.
USDA California Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Executive Director Chris Lauppe has announced Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) availability for Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, and Sierra counties.
ECP provides emergency funding and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers to rehabilitate farmland damaged by natural disasters and for implementing emergency water conservation measures in periods of severe drought. The program’s initial focus will be to provide assistance to livestock producers with emergency water needs.  Interested producers can sign up between February 10 and March 27, 2014.  There are 49 California counties eligible for ECP assistance related to drought.
Lauppe encouraged farmers and ranchers impacted by California’s ongoing drought to contact their local USDA Service Center in Alturas or Susanville to seek information and assistance in the four county area.  Farmers and ranchers in other counties should contact their local USDA Service Center before the March 27 deadline.

Obituaries:

Steven Richno
Steven Lawrence Richno of Alturas, CA passed away February 17, 2014, at the home of his father in Klamath Falls, OR, after a short battle with cancer.
Steve was born in Pensacola, Florida on November 19, 1961
There will be no services at this time.
Memorial donations may be directed to the Klamath Falls Hospice or the Hugh Currin House at Sky Lakes Medical Center, 2610 Uhrmann Rd., Klamath Falls, Ore. 97601.

Rebba Lois Kirby
Rebba Lois (Simmons) Kirby, born and raised in Big Valley, CA passed away at her home in Kansas City, MO on February 16, 2014. Mrs. Kirby was born in Bieber, CA on July 22, 1949 and raised in Big Valley, CA.
Graveside services will be held Friday, Feb. 21 at the Adin Cemetery at 11 a.m. Fellowship to follow.
Mrs. Kirby’s obituary will be published in a future issue.

Sports

Boys fall to Trinity; girls win, both in playoffs

Modoc’s varsity basketball team lost to the Trinity Wolves last Saturday in overtime 82-76, while the girl’s varsity won 39-24. Both teams are now waiting for their playoff schedule.
Against Trinity, the boys started in the hole, behind 22-16 after the first period, but tied it at 35-35 by halftime. They fell behind again 53-52 after three and outscored Trinity 19-18 to tie it after regulation. Trinity outscored the Braves 11-5 in the extra period.
“We lost an overtime thriller at Trinity Saturday night,” said coach Keith Weber. The game was close throughout, with neither team leading by more than five points. The game was won at the free throw line, with Trinity hitting 25 of 32 free throws, and Modoc making only 10/22 free throws.”
Alan Weber and Benjamin Jones each scored 19 points. Fernando Alcala added 15 points and Tyler Ewing scored 14 points. Modoc will most likely host a playoff game on February 26.
Modoc defeated Etna 71-54 on the road Tuesday night. With the win, the Braves finished in 3rd place (7-5) in the SCL and 16-8 overall. Currently Modoc is seeded sixth in the North Section Division V playoff race.
“The boys will sit back and wait until Saturday, when official playoff brackets are released,” said Weber. “I anticipate a home playoff game next Wednesday.”
Weber and Alcala led the Braves in scoring with 18 points each and Tristan Axelrod added 16 points.
While the boys’ teams were scoring at will the girls had some trouble. Modoc girl’s started with a 7-5 first period lead, and Modoc jumped out to a 23-8 lead by the half. The Braves increased that margin to 35-12 after three and won 39-24.
Beth Derner led with 11 points, while Kelsey Clay and Kelsey Sphar each added six.
They lost at Etna Tuesday night. 48-44, down three starters. Etna led 9-8 in the first and 28-19 by halftime. Modoc outscored them 25-22 in the second half but came up short.
According to coach Bill Hall, Modoc made 19 field goals and three, three pointers. Etna only made 13 field goals and no three pointers.
“We shot 15 free throws, making 5, while Etna shot 39 making 18,” he said.
Clay led with 15 points and Derner added 12.
Modoc’s junior varsity girls lost to Trinity 46-35. Trinity led 13-8 in the first and 22-11 by halftime. They blew the game open to 38-21 in the third. Modoc added 14 to Trinity’s eight in the fourth. Melissa Knoch led with 14 points and Ward added eight.
The JVs beat Fall River previously, 52-38. Modoc led 13-2 in the first and 25-13 by half. They outscored the Bulldogs 27-25 in the second half. Ward had 14, Emily Lowrey added 11, Knoch had 10 and Macie Larranaga had nine.
Modoc boy’s junior varsity lost to Etna 53-38. Etna led 17-8 in the first period and 29-16 at halftime. By the end of three, Modoc trailed 43-26.

Wrestling hosts Division finals

Modoc hosts the North Section Division III and IV finals Saturday in the Griswold Gym.
Coach Shaun Woods expects several if his wrestlers to win the event and sees a team contest between Modoc, Durham and Willows.

February 27, 2014

News

DA may seek death penalty in mass shooting

Modoc County District Attorney Jordan Funk said his office may seek the death penalty against alleged mass killer Cherie Rhoades, who is facing four counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder in last week’s shooting at the Cedarville Rancheria Officers in Alturas.
Funk said there are alleged special circumstances making the case is first-degree murder.
“Death is on the table. It's not off the table,” Funk said Wednesday.
The DA went on to say his office will make a final decision on whether to notify the defense of the intent to seek death after they convene a death penalty review committee. Funk said the process could take months, but he would like to have a preliminary hearing in the case in the next 90 to 120 days.
An arraignment was continued until Monday, and Rhoades will be held without bail. She appeared at Tuesday’s court proceeds wearing a bulletproof vest. The complaint states that Rhoades acted “willfully and unlawfully with malice aforethought” in the murders.
Four people were killed and two seriously injured in a shooting February 20, just before 3:30 p.m. at the Cedarville Rancheria Tribal Office located at 300 W. 1st Street, Alturas.
The deceased are Angel Penn, age 19, Glenn Calonico, age 30, Sheila Russo, age 47, and Rurik Davis, age 50. Davis is the shooter’s brother, Penn is her niece and Calonico is her nephew. Russo is the wife of a Sheriff’s Department employee and was a tribal administrator.
Two other people were also wounded, Melissa Davis, age 34, and Monica Davis, age 25. They are Rurik Davis’ daughters. Monica Davis, who was reportedly shot once, was released from the hospital this week and Melissa remains in hospital care following surgery. According to reports, she was shot several times and may have also been stabbed.
According to Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes, Rhoades, 44, of Cedarville, allegedly opened fire during a tribal hearing on her eviction, apparently when the decision was made to evict her. Rhoades was recently removed as the Tribal Chairperson and Davis was taking her place.

Shooting, no injuries on Saturday

A shooting Saturday afternoon on Modoc Street in Alturas resulted in the arrest of one person and there were no injuries.
According to Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes, officers were called to the end of Modoc Street after a report that shots were fired. They encountered Randy West, who appeared to be have been drinking, and who is suspected of firing more than two dozen .22 caliber rounds at a trailer owned by Danny Schulz.
Schulz’s trailer is to the east of West’s home. Barnes said West and Schulz had apparently had a disagreement the night before.
West was firing his .22 rifle towards the Schulz trailer, which was occupied by Schulz and friends Leo Kennedy and Judy Jones. Jones called police to report the shots being fired.
According to Barnes, West was inside his home shooting through a window, that he did not open before firing the first shot. None of his bullets hit the Schulz trailer, but he apparently hit his own travel trailer. Schulz did not return fire.

County races filling up

With a week to file for local county offices, all incumbents have taken out papers and some challengers have appeared. The deadline to file is March 7, since all incumbents are in the race.
If an incumbent does decide not to run, the filing period will be extended from March 8 though March 12 for that office.
Modoc County Clerk of the Board Stephanie Wellemeyer has announced her candidacy for County Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters against incumbent Darcy Locken in the June primary election. Locken has now taken out papers.
Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes is challenging Sheriff Mike Poindexter. Poindexter is running again.
For proper forms and more information, contact the County Clerk’s Office.
County offices up for election include the Superintendent of Schools, District Attorney, County Sheriff, County Treasurer, County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk and Assessor.
In addition, Modoc County Supervisors David Allan of District One and Geri Byrne of District Five are up for re-election. Both are running again.
Schools Superintendent Gary Jones is running for re-election. Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch, Assessor Cheri Budmark, and District Attorney Jordan Funk have taken out papers.
Alturas Mayor John Dederick and Councilman Keith Jacques are also up for re-election. Dederick will seek re-election and Jacques said he will not. Former councilman John Schreiber has filed for election and at least one other candidate is expected.
BLM seeking public input on drought response planning

 The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on issues to be considered when the Surprise Field Office develops an environmental assessment for managing livestock and wild horses during drought.
The proposed EA will examine factors that BLM staff specialists will use when evaluating rangeland conditions, including water availability, plant conditions, soil conditions, body condition of wild horses and others.  The EA would analyze a range of temporary responses to these conditions such as changes in livestock grazing management, temporary water hauling and removal of wild horses.
The EA will focus on public lands managed by the Surprise Field Office in northeast California and far northwest Nevada.
Public comments should address the issues that the BLM should consider in developing the EA.  Comments should be sent to: Bureau of Land Management, Surprise Field Office, PO Box 460, Cedarville, CA  96104 or sent by email to: srfoweb@blm.gov.  Comments must be received by Friday, March 21, 2014.
More information is available from the Surprise Field Office, (530) 279-6101.

Obituaries:

Rurik Davis
At the family’s request, memorial services will be private for their loved one, Rurik Daniel Davis of Cedarville, CA. Mr. Davis died in Alturas, CA on February 20, 2014. He was born February 27, 1963 in Cedarville, CA. Mr. Davis’ obituary will be published in a future issue.

Glenn Calonico, Jr.
Memorial services for Glenn Phillip Calonico, Jr. of Cedarville, CA will be held Saturday, March 8 at 10 a.m. at the Kerr Mortuary Chapel, 400 West Second St., Alturas, CA. Glenn, son of Tinarisa (Sweeney) and Glenn Calonico, Sr. was born in Roseville, CA on November 26, 1983. He passed away in Alturas, CA and was greeted by those he joined in heaven on February 20, 2014. He was 30 years of age.

Kevin James Brumbaugh
Kevin James Brumbaugh, age 49, of Burney, CA passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, February 18, 2014. He was the oldest of three boys born to Jim and Melinda Brumbaugh. Born in Fresno, California on February 21, 1964, he was a lifelong resident of Modoc County. His family welcomes you to a celebration of his life to be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2014 at the First Baptist Church on Poplar Ave., in Burney.

Rebba Lois Kirby
Rebba Lois (Simmons) Kirby, of Kansas City, Mo., passed away peacefully early Sunday morning February 16, 2014 at home in Kansas City, MO at the age of 64 in the presence of her husband.
Rebba was born July 22, 1949 in Bieber, California, the second daughter of Enoch and Wilma Simmons.
Graveside service was at 11 a.m., February 21, 2014 at Adin, California Cemetery. A remembrance luncheon was held after the service.

Sports

Modoc dominates to win Division III title

Modoc’s wrestling team dominated the North Section Division III wrestling championships here Saturday and send nine wrestlers and one alternate to the Masters Tournament in Redding this weekend.
Modoc won the title with 186.5 points, besting Durham with 154.5, Trinity with 120 and Chester 112, Willows 88, Etna 86, Hamilton City 72, U-Prep 68, Mt. Shasta 52, Dunsmuir 40, Quincy 31, Fall River 24, Big Valley 23, Las Molinos 21, Biggs 14, Elk Creek six, Esparto three and Tulelake 0.
Individual Division champions for Modoc include: 120-pound Steven Aceves; 126-pound Alex Valencia; 138-pound Ethan Dunn and 145-pound David Buckley.
Second place went to 113-pound Timmy Reed; 152-pound Jarrett Royce; and Tristan Osborne at 220 pounds.
Heavyweight Allen Clark took fourth place; Zack Norby was fourth at 132 pounds, while Robert Dowdy took a fifth at 182 pounds.

Boys, girls basketball in section playoffs

Both the Modoc girls and boys varsity basketball teams made the North Section Division Five play-offs. The girls traveled to Pierce High School Tuesday and the varsity boys played at home against Portola on Wednesday after press-time.
The girls beat Pierce 49-40 and advance to face Weed Friday, 6 p.m. in Weed. Modoc is the number 10 seed and Weed is number two. In the previous two meetings this year Weed won 37-23 and 40-21.
The boys won their final Shasta Cascade League game against Etna Friday 71-54. They trailed 16-11 in the first and were down 33-30 by halftime. But they blasted out of the pep talks to a 23-8 third period, leading 53-41 and won the fourth 18-13.
The Braves ended up in the third place in the SCL with standings as follows: Mt. Shasta 11-1, Weed 9-3, Modoc 7-5, Trinity 6-6, Fall River 5-7, Burney 4-8 and Etna 0-12.
Modoc’s girls lost to Etna 48-44, falling behind 9-8 in the first and 26-19 at halftime. Modoc won the second half 25-22 but could not seal the deal. Kelsey The girls finished in third pace in the SCL as follows: Weed 12-0, Mt. Shasta 8-4, Modoc 7-5, Etna 6-6, Fall River 6-6. Trinity 3-9 and Etna 0-12.
Modoc’s junior varsity girls beat Etna in an overtime thriller 52-51 to finish their season.

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March 6, 2014

News

Rhoades enters ‘not guilty’ plea in murders

Cherie Rhoades, accused of murdering four people and attempting to kill two others on Feb. 20 at the Cedarville Rancheria Tribal Office in Alturas, pleaded not guilty to those charges in Modoc Superior Court Monday.
She will return to Modoc Courts April 23, 11 a.m. for further proceedings. She was denied bail.
The deceased are Angel Penn, age 19, Glenn Calonico, age 30, Sheila Russo, age 47, and Rurik Davis, age 50. Davis is the shooter’s brother, Penn is her niece and Calonico is her nephew. Russo is the wife of a Sheriff’s Department employee and was a tribal administrator.
Two other people were also wounded, Melissa Davis, age 26, and Monica Davis, age 25. They are Rurik Davis’ daughters. Monica has been released from the hospital and Melissa, who was more seriously injured in recovering and doing well.
Modoc County District Attorney Jordan Funk has said his office may seek the death penalty against Rhoades. The case is first-degree murder with special circumstances. The complaint states that Rhoades acted “willfully and unlawfully with malice aforethought” in commission of the murders.
Funk said the process could take months, but he would like to have a preliminary hearing in the case in the next 90 to 120 days.

BV ambulance district issue on June 3 ballot

Last week the Modoc County Board of Supervisors voted to consolidate the Big Valley ambulance district election on the June 3 Primary ballot.
The Lassen and Modoc County Local Agency Formation Commissions, LAFCOs, approved the Cascades Community Services District last month, whose purpose will be to provide medical and Advanced Life Support ambulance services for Big Valley.
The district, if approved by two third of its voters, would include property in both Lassen and Modoc Counties and the majority of the property value is in Lassen.
Voters in the proposed district are asked to vote in favor of it and a flat rate tax of $65 per unique parcel per year. Individual unique parcel owners will be taxed for a maximum of two parcels, $130 per year within the CSD, regardless of how many separate parcels they own in either county.

Deadline nears for June 3 nominations

The deadline for candidates to file for the June 3 Primary Election is March 7 for the County and March 12 for the City of Alturas offices.
All county incumbents have taken out papers and some challengers have appeared. Not all incumbents have finished the process, but are expected to before the deadline.
If an incumbent does decide not to run, the filing period will be extended from March 8 though March 12 for that office.
Modoc County Clerk of the Board Stephanie Wellemeyer is running for County Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters against incumbent Darcy Locken. Locken has taken out papers.
Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes is challenging Sheriff Mike Poindexter. Poindexter is running again.
For proper forms and more information, contact the County Clerk’s Office.
County offices up for election include the Superintendent of Schools, District Attorney, County Sheriff, County Treasurer, County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk and Assessor.
In addition, Modoc County Supervisors David Allan of District One and Geri Byrne of District Five are running again.
Schools Superintendent Gary Jones is running for re-election. Assessor Cheri Budmark, and District Attorney Jordan Funk have filed. Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch has taken out papers. There are no challengers for those offices.

County okays contract for property tax review

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors approved a contract last week aimed at a review of the ongoing issue of improper property tax allocations.
County Chief Administrative Officer Chester Robertson said the contract with consultant Rodney C. Goodman, Certified Public Accountant, was signed and is in effect from now until April 1.
County Auditor Darcy Locken had informed the Board of errors in the allocation of property taxes to various agencies and entities and that from $700,000 to $1 million in overpayments could be involved.
The Board has been trying to get a pure sense of how that happened, why it happened and how to remedy the problem. Goodman was brought on Board for his expertise and the contract limits compensation to $5,000.

Obituaries:

Clifford Earl Bailey
A celebration of life for Clifford Earl Bailey, respected, longtime Modoc rancher, will be held on what would have been his 95th birthday this Sunday, March 9, 2014 at 1 p.m. at the Alturas Elks Lodge 1756, Main St., Alturas. The family invites all who knew Cliff. Elks will be providing the food for the time of fellowship.
“Cliff” as he was known to so many, passed away at his home in Alturas, CA on December 22, 2013. He was born March 9, 1919, in a sod house near Lyman, CO, to Earl and Ida (Young) Bailey, Cliff was one of 10 children.
Memorial donations may be directed to any charity of the donor’s choice.
Private family services will be held at his ranch earlier in the day, prior to the celebration of life.

Sandi (Vernon) Bright
Sandi Vernon Bright passed away unexpectedly at her home in Big Pine, CA, following a long illness on February 28, 2014. She had just celebrated her 49th birthday.
Sandy was born on February 16, 1965 in Ft. Rucker, Alabama. She spent time growing up in Alturas and attended Modoc High School.
A memorial service is planned for March 15, 1 p.m., at the Brass Rail Banquet Room, Lakeview Hwy, Alturas, CA. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your local animal shelter.

Ray Ketler
Ray Ketler, 95, passed away in his sleep at his Canby, CA home on February 24, 2014. Mr. Ketler was born October 24, 1918 in Akron, Ohio, where he went to high school. His services will be private.

Gordon Ash
Gordon Ash, longtime Surprise Valley resident, died at home on March 3, 2014 in Cedarville, CA.  Services will be held at the Cedarville Community Church on March 22, 2014 at 11 a.m., with fellowship to follow. Mr. Ash’s obituary will be published next week.

Melvin L. Dollarhide
Melvin Lyle Dollarhide, born in Cedarville, CA January 21, 1953, passed away at the age of 61, on February 28, 2014 in Cedarville, CA. Among those who survive are his wife Melinda.
A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, March 15 at 1 p.m. at Modoc District Fairgrounds, Cedarville. Mr. Dollarhide’s obituary will be published in a future issue. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Glenn P. Calonico, Jr.
Memorial services for Glenn Phillip Calonico, Jr. of Cedarville, CA will be held Saturday, March 8 at 10 a.m. at the Kerr Mortuary Chapel, 400 West Second St., Alturas, CA. Glenn, son of Tinarisa (Sweeney) and Glenn Calonico, Sr. was born in Roseville, CA on November 26, 1983. He passed away in Alturas, February 20, 2014.

Sports

Modoc’s Dunn heads to state finals

Modoc senior wrestler Ethan Dunn will have his second shot at a state title after qualifying Saturday at the Master’s Tournament in Redding.
Dunn placed second at the masters in the 135-pound division. Dunn also qualified for the state finals as a junior last season. The state championships are in Bakersfield this weekend.
“Ethan didn’t have a real good match in the finals, but he tore up the field on the way to the finals,” said coach Shaun Wood. “We had not seen the Las Plumas wrestler he lost to all year. Ethan will do fine.”
Modoc wrestlers had to place in the top three at Masters to qualify for state. Steven Aceves placed fifth at 120 pounds, Alex Valencia placed sixth at 126 pounds, David Buckley was fifth at 145 pounds and Tristan Osborne was sixth at 220 pounds.
“I was very pleased with the team,” said Wood. “All nine of our wrestlers made it to the second day of the event and we had five place. Last year we just had one placer, Ethan. As a team we finished seventh out of about 40 schools. The only ones above us were much bigger schools.”
Sutter High won the event with Chico second, followed by Orland, Paradise, Corning, Las Plumas, Modoc and others.
Other wrestlers for Modoc at the Masters were: 113-pound Timmy Reed; 152-pound Jarrett Royce; heavyweight Allen Clark; and Zack Norby 132 pounds.

Weed knocks Braves out of playoffs

The Weed Cougars knocked both the Modoc varsity boys and varsity girls out of the Division Five playoffs Friday night in Weed.
The boys were crushed 86-57 and the girls lost 51-21. The boys finish the season with a 17-9 overall record and 7-5 in the Shasta Cascade League. The girls finish at 11-13 overall and 7-5 in the SCL.
“The three things we've avoided all year finally crept up and bit us,” said coach Keith Weber. “We had a starter foul out, another starter sick, and an injury. Give credit to Weed. They are playing solid ball."
Fernando Alcala led the Braves with 21 points. Benjamin Jones added 15 points and nine rebounds.
"This was a fun group to coach, I am proud of every one of the guys," said Weber.
Modoc defeated Portola 77-60 in the first round of the Northern California Division V playoffs.
Modoc was off in the first quarter, missing numerous easy shots, and trailed 17-14.
“We started to settle in and led 37-31 at the half,” said Weber. "We extended our pressure full court, which resulted in turnovers and easy transition baskets."
Fernando Alcala was a spark plug for the Braves scoring 22 points. Alan Weber added 20 points.
Modoc’s girls played a tough first half against Weed with the game knotted at 16-16. But then the wheels fell off and Weed outscored the Braves 35-5 in the second half.
“Game plans are for the whole game and we made it work for the first half,” said coach Bill Hall. After playing Weed for the fourth time, it was easy to expect what Bobby West's team would do and they did just that. What changed was Weed extended their own man-to-man and became more aggressive. Both teams were in foul trouble and our girls let it take them out of their own rhythm. We shot poorly and in a championship playoff game once it starts to fade it fades quickly.”
Beth Derner had seven points and Jordan Marquardt had seven.
“We did not make a field goal in the fourth,” said Hall. “I played everyone late and the score reflected it. Good season and I will be returning four starters.”

March 13, 2014

News

County elections set, 2 contested races

There will be two contested races in the Modoc County June 3 Primary election, one for Sheriff and the other for Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of voters.
While there were some early rumblings from the local Tea Party about challenging Supervisor Dave Allan in District One and Supervisor Geri Byrne in District Five, neither of them are facing opposition for another term.
March 7 was the nomination deadline for the County and March 12 for the City of Alturas offices.
Modoc County Clerk of the Board Stephanie Wellemeyer is running for County Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters against incumbent Darcy Locken. Both are qualified for the election.
Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes is challenging Sheriff Mike Poindexter and both are qualified for the ballot.
Running unopposed for election are: Modoc County Schools Superintendent Gary Jones; Assessor Cheri Budmark; District Attorney Jordan Funk; and Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch.
There is a contested race in the City of Alturas where two City Council seats are on the ballot and four candidates are running. Alturas Mayor John Dederick is seeking re-election. Councilman Keith Jacques chose not to run. Former councilman John Schreiber, Mark Steffek and Bill Hall are running.
In addition, City Treasurer Heather MacDonnell will seek re-election and is unopposed.
The voter registration deadline for the June 3 primary is May 19.

Modoc jobless rate at 13%

The Modoc unemployment rate went up to 13 percent for January, according to the state Employment Development Department.
That rate is down from 16 percent in January 2013, but up from December 2013’s 10.8 percent. The civilian labor force for January 2014 stood at 3,560 with 3,100 employed and 460 unemployed. That’s down from November 2013’s 3,640 when 3,250 were employed.
Local state and federal government make up about 36 percent of the total jobs in Modoc. But those government jobs took a hit in January as federal employment dipped from 230 to 180. The state stayed even at 70 and local government dropped from 880 to 860.
Modoc’s 13 percent jobless rate ranks it 43rd out of the state’s 58 counties for highest unemployment, while Lassen’s 11.4 percent ranks it 36th and Siskiyou’s 14.9 percent ranks it 52nd. The highest jobless rate is in Colusa County at 25.9 percent and the lowest is Marin at 4.7 percent.

Supervisors ask BLM to open Litchfield corrals

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors, well aware of the wild horse issue on the Devil’s Garden, approved a letter to the Bureau of Land Management Tuesday requesting use of the Litchfield corrals.
Chairman of the Board Jim Wills said the corrals have room to house some of the Devil’s Garden horses and approval of the County’s request would allow for a gather program. The issue is extremely important to livestock grazers, wildlife and the overall health of the environment.
Modoc Land Use Committee member June Roberts said Modoc is the only forest with a large population of wild horses. It’s estimated that 2,000 wild horses are on the Garden and the Forest Service’s preferred level is around 400 horses. Roberts said the federal responsibility for the wild horse and burro program is under the BLM.
“The Modoc County Board of Supervisors (County) encourages you to grant the management of the Litchfield Wild Horse Corrals of the Eagle Lake Field Office the flexibility to enter into discussions with the Modoc National Forest regarding the use of the corrals as part of the Forest’s Wild Horse management program,” Modoc’s letter states.

City changes curb, gutter ordinance

On Tuesday the Alturas City Council voted to change its curb and gutter ordinance.
According to Mayor John Dederick the original ordinance required a property owner to put in curb and gutter for any building permit with a value of $15,000 or more.
He said that included inside remodeling, such as a kitchen remodel or the like. The change puts the buildings permit value at $20,000 to trigger the curb and gutter requirement, but would exempt most interior remodeling projects.
The new ordinance basically now defines improvements as any addition to real property or land that constitutes a major rehabilitation or converts the property to a different use.

Obituaries—

Gordon Ash
Gordon Victor Ash, age 84, died at his home in Cedarville, California, on March 3, 2014.  He was was born at home in Cedarville on November 14, 1929, to Alexander (Alex) and Dorothy (Rinehart) Ash.  Gordon attended schools in Surprise Valley, graduating from Surprise Valley High School in 1947.
A memorial service will be held at the Community Church in Cedarville on Saturday, March 22, at 11 a.m.  Following the service the family hopes you will join them in a potluck fellowship at the Community Hall—meat will be provided by the family.  A private family interment will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the charity of your choice.

Melvin Dollarhide
A Celebration of Life for Melvin Lyle Dollarhide of Cedarville, will be held Saturday, March 15 at 1 p.m. at Modoc District Fairgrounds, Cedarville. Meat will be provided for the potluck. In his honor, family and friends will wear sports attire, San Francisco Giants Baseball t-shirts or any team t-shirt, to the memorial service, as Melvin would have loved that and was a big fan of the Giants. He loved all sports.
Born in Cedarville, CA to Lyle and Ellen (Minto) Dollarhide on January 21, 1953, Melvin’s passing came unexpectedly at the age of 61, on February 28, 2014 in Cedarville, CA.
Memorial donations may be directed to the historic landmark Eagleville Community Church “ECCBA,” a tax exempt organization, c/o P.O. Box 65, Eagleville, CA 96110 or to a charity of your choice.

Sandi (Vernon) Bright
A memorial service for Sandi (Vernon) Bright will be held March 15, 1 p.m., at the Brass Rail Banquet Room, Lakeview Hwy, Alturas, CA. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your local animal shelter. Sandi passed away unexpectedly at her home in Big Pine, CA, following a long illness on February 28, 2014.

Dorothy Clark
Dorothy Virginia (Turner) Clark of Alturas passed away in the blink of an eye in the early morning hours of Sunday, March 2, 2014 in Alturas, CA. Now she is with her Father in Heaven and the love of her life, Earl, and her daughter, Linda. The desire of Dorothy’s heart was to be with God for all of eternity.
Earl passed away in February 2009, and Linda passed away in October, 2013.
Services are pending and will take place at Alturas Cemetery. Memorial donations may be directed to Warnerview Convalescent Hospital, 225 W. McDowell, Alturas, CA 96101.

Darvin Lee
Darvin Lee passed away in Beaverton, OR on March 3, 2014, with his wife of 69 years at his side. He was born on March 9, 1920 to Ed Lee and Mabel (Kimball) Lee in Chico, CA. Darvin grew up on the Shedd Ranch in Alturas, CA.
A service with military honors will take place on Thursday, March 13, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland. Visit his memorial page at www.peggpaxsonspringerfuneralchapel.com.

Sports

Dunn draws tough pair at state

Modoc’s 138-pound Ethan Dunn drew a pair of tough opponents in the first two rounds at the State wrestling championships in Bakersfield last weekend.
Dunn wound up getting eliminated in the two rounds, one to the third-ranked wrestler at his weight, and the second to the Las Plumas wrestler who just beat him at the North Section finals the week before.
“Ethan wrestled tough and well,” said coach Shaun Wood. “He just ran into a couple of guys who were a little better that day. Ethan was still recovering from some injuries, but he never did let up. He’s gone to state the last two years, and that’s pretty impressive.”

Spring sports starting

The spring sports season gets underway this weekend when the Modoc High School Baseball team heads to the Colusa tournament March 14-15.
The baseball team is under coach Tim MacDonnell.
Modoc’s softball team under coach Matt Cruse heads to the Anderson tournament March 14-15.
Modoc’s track team began practice March 3 and has its first meet at the Burt Williams Invitational at Central Valley High School March 29. Bill Hall is the head track coach.
The Modoc golf team opened at Eagle Point March 5 and heads to Trinity Alps Golf Course March 13. On March 17 the play at Gold Hills. Head golf coach is Harold Montague.

Modoc runners dominate at Nor-Cal championships

On March 1, 41 Modoc Elementary and Middle School runners competed in the one mile and three Nor-Cal mile championships. Once the rain had stopped, Modoc had run away with team championships in the K-2nd, 3rd-5th and 6th -8th grade championships while running against over 170 runners. 
In addition, of the $1,300 dollars in prize money up for grabs, Modoc walked away with $1,000 dollars.  In addition, of the eight individual age titles up for grabs, Modoc captured six of them.
In the sixth-eighth grade division Modoc won with a low score of 19 compared to U-Preps second place finish with 50 points. Meanwhile the third-fifth grade division was won by a score of 106 to 151 over second place Country Christian.  In addition Modoc K-2nd grade won by a score of 360 to 420 over Redding School of Arts.
Individual age group winners were: Nicole Yasumi, Cayla Castellanos, Carly Bateman, Jake Cuzick, Jacob Mastagni and Caelli DePaul.  Meanwhile runners that placed in their age group were Hunter Quinn, Ryan Kupsky, Daniel Bratton, Justin Walton, Logan VanSickle, Tucker Lowery, Sage Cuzick, Gabe Bateman, Kaleb Hill, Hailey Quinn, Kaycce Cuzick, MacKenzie Hughes, Jacklyn VanSickle, Julianna Minto and Hailey Hopkins. 
Other participants from Modoc who really helped in the scoring were Caitlin O’Malley, Sarah Kyllo, Clara Kyllo, Brooke Lafferty, Natalie Benson, Madison Quinn, Baylee Hughes, Linnea Price, Khyli Vance, Allie Weber, Collin Kupshy, Jeremy Mastagni, Tim O’Malley, Joshua Bratton, Ryan Weber, Von Whitlock, Tyler Bateman, Axl Whitlock and Hayes Price.
Many runners who had competed in the one mile turned around and then ran the three mile with less than an hour recovery time.  Again Modoc runners dominated in their age groups.  The following runners won their age groups Ryan Kupshy, Jake Cuzick,  Carly Bateman and Nicole Yasumi.  Others that medaled in their age groups were Justin Walton, Hunter Quinn, Tucker Lowery, Longan VanSickle , Madison Quinn, Kailey Quinn and Hailey Hopkins.  Others that competed and barely missed out in medaling in their age groups were Jeremy Mastagni, Gabe Bateman, Collin Kupsky, Cayla Castellanos and Jacklyn VanSickle.
On another note several adults ran in the adult divisions and medaled.  The following runners won their divisions Levi Bateman, Don Mason and Stephan Bratton. The following runners medaled Roy Cuzick, Emily Lowery, Gerese Weber, Laurie Price, Joe Bratton, Mike Bratton and Adrian Cuzick.
Coach Mason would like to thank all of the parents for helping with lodging, transportation, and food since this is not a school sponsored event.  In addition he would like to thank all of the parents who helped out with practice, especially Laurie Price, Susan Hughes,  Kristen DePaul and Levi Bateman.  Mason also noted that despite the poor running conditions, his runners came to run and did a fantastic job. He also is pleased that since most of the kids were at the bottom of their age group, they should even do better next year.   

March 20, 2014

News

Recordings recovered showing Rancheria crime scene

According to Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes, investigators have recovered video and audio recordings that show action before, during and after the Cedarville Rancheria meeting where four people were killed Feb. 20.
Barnes said ADT had installed a surveillance system on the inside and outside of the building. The recordings have been turned over to the Modoc County District Attorney’s office.
Barnes also said his department continues with the investigation that includes the California Department of Justice, Sheriff’s Office and federal agencies.
Cherie Rhoades, is accused of murdering four people and attempting to kill two others on Feb. 20 at the Cedarville Rancheria Tribal Office in Alturas. She has pleaded not guilty to those charges in Modoc Superior Court.
She will return to Modoc Courts April 23, 11 a.m. for further proceedings. She was denied bail.
The deceased are Angel Penn, age 19, Glenn Calonico, age 30, Sheila Russo, age 47, and Rurik Davis, age 50. Davis is the shooter’s brother, Penn is her niece and Calonico is her nephew. Russo is the wife of a Sheriff’s Department employee and was the tribal administrator.

Recall, primary elections on calendar

Modoc voters in Supervisor District Four will go to the polls for a recall election April 8. They will decide whether Supervisor Jim Wills should be recalled.
If they vote for the recall, the next question would be to vote a replacement between Wills and challenger Dan Lowry. A no vote on the recall makes the second question moot. District voters have received sample ballots.
Wills was elected in November 2012 and took his seat in January 2013.
Two contested races are on tap in the Modoc County June 3 Primary election, one for Sheriff and the other for Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of voters.
Neither Supervisor Dave Allan in District One and Supervisor Geri Byrne in District Five, is facing opposition for another term.
Modoc County Clerk of the Board Stephanie Wellemeyer is running for County Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters against incumbent Darcy Locken. Locken is completing her first term. Both are qualified for the election.
Sheriff Mike Poindexter is being challenged by Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes. Both are qualified for the ballot and that campaign is starting to heat up.
Running unopposed in June are: Modoc County Schools Superintendent Gary Jones; Assessor Cheri Budmark; District Attorney Jordan Funk; and Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch.

Comments sought for Barry Point South Reforestation

The Devil’s Garden Ranger District of the Modoc National Forest is seeking comments on the issues, concerns, and opportunities associated with the Barry Point South 2015 Reforestation Project.
The proposal aims to accelerate the restoration of forested lands on approximately 3,540 acres within the 2012 Barry Point Fire where high mortality occurred.   
 The purpose and need of the project is to reestablish forest cover in burned areas that could take decades to recover naturally.  Planting native pines will accelerate the ecosystem’s restoration; improve local wildlife habitats and water quality.  
The Barry Point Fire burned through 16,587 acres of the Modoc National Forest in September, 2012.  Harvest activities are now complete within the salvage units.  This project is a sequential restoration effort to inter-plant trees on approximately 1,900 acres outside of the salvage units. 
 More information is at http://www.fs.usda.gov/projects/modoc/landmanagement/projects.
 Please submit written comments by March 25, 2014 to be of most use in the development of this project. For more information or to discuss the details of this proposal, please contact Roy Cuzick, Lead Forester at rcuzick@fs.fed.us or Cathy Carlock, Culturist at ccarlock@fs.fed.us or (530) 233-8803.

Sports

Braves go 1-2 in Colusa

Modoc’s baseball team won a game and lost two at the Colusa tourney last weekend. They travel to the Maxwell tourney this weekend.
The Braves lost the opening game at Colusa to Winters 10-1. Alex Valencia got the loss, going six innings, allowing seven runs on five hits, struck out two and walked four.
Modoc beat Pierce 5-3 in the second game with Royce getting the win. He pitched seven innings, allowing three runs on four hits, struck out five and walked two.
Doss, Beebout, Ewing, Ingraham and Jones each had one hit.
Colusa topped the Braves 13-2 in the third game with Ben Jones getting the loss.

Modoc golf team putting around

Modoc’s golf team has started puttering around this season and will play at Weed today and at Chico March 24.
The sole returning player active this year is Alan Weber, who should be one of the top players in the Shasta Cascade League. Three players (Brady Deaton, Angie Hall and Ashley Hill) are completely new to the game.. Newcomers Cam Johnston, Ole Kyllo and Brandon Witherspoon show promise.
Modoc only took four players to the first two matches this season. The first league match was last Thursday at Riverview Golf and Country Club in Redding. Alan Weber is tied for first place overall after shooting an 88 in week one. Witherspoon shot 101, Johnston 102 and Kyllo 113.
On Monday they played in the Shasta High tournament at Gold Hills in Redding. Conditions were cool and windy which resulted in higher scores. Weber shot 94, Johnston 107, Kyllo 119 and Witherspoon 126.

Youth wrestling tourney had 250 kids

The Modoc Youth Wrestling Tournament Saturday attracted 250 young wrestlers from throughout the region.
Modoc wrestlers who won first place in the under six age group were: Bruce Lewis, Bodee Hunter, Hunter Quinn, Dustin Egle, Logan Wattenburg, Cade Sellers, Cache Knight, DJ Wellemeyer and Brock MacDonnell.
In the eight and under group, Troy Lewis took a first, Jim Thomason, Troy Lewis and Austin Davis took seconds; Conner Boyle and Fernando Chavez took thirds.
Cody Sphar took a second in the 10 and under group with T.J. Robbins and Liliana Haddox taking thirds.
In the 12 and under division, Scott Lewis took two firsts; Christian Wisser took second, and thirds went to John Thomason, Tim Chainey and Alicia Chavez.
In the 14 and under group Brandon Hays took two firsts, Lane Gavin and Jordan Royce took firsts; Lane Gavin, Josh Vierria ns Jordan Royce took seconds.

3 Braves on All SCL team

Coaches have selected Modoc Braves’ Fernando Alcala, Benjamin Jones and
Alan Weber for the Shasta Cascade All-League basketball team.
Additionally, Alcala and Jones will represent Modoc High School in the Lion's All Star Basketball Game.  The best seniors in the North State are selected to play in a North vs. South All Star contest. 

March 27, 2014

News

Recall election has two polling sites

The April 8 recall election in Supervisor District Four will have two physical polling places, which should have been listed on voter’s sample ballots.
Voters in Alturas B and Hot Spring precincts will cast ballots at Alturas City Hall and California Pines precinct voters will vote at the California Pines Lodge. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on election day.
Voters in Supervisor District Four will decide whether Supervisor Jim Wills should be recalled. If they vote for the recall, the next question would be to vote a replacement between Wills and challenger Dan Lowry. A no vote on the recall makes the second question moot. District voters have received sample ballots.
Wills was elected in November 2012 and took his seat in January 2013.

County Counsel cautions Auditor on budget

Modoc County Legal Counsel Margaret Long cautioned Auditor Darcy Locken about Title III funding in a letter March 24, which was read at the Modoc County Board of Supervisor’s meeting.
Long’s letter reads: “It appears that you are refusing to process the journal transfer from the Title III funds for Fiscal Year 12/13 based on your personal research regarding the proper use of Title III funding. The letter also appears to demand specific documentation on the threat that you will modify prior years' budgets if not received.”
 “As we have discussed prior, the County has sent all of the necessary certification of Title III expenditures to the U.S. Forest Service,” Long writes. “These certifications have never been rejected and the U.S. Forest Service has never contacted the County to even express concern regarding the expenditures.”
 “The County has done its due diligence with the U.S. Forest Service to ensure they are satisfied with the County's use of the Title III funds,” she wrote. “In order to protect the County and prevent potential loss of valuable funds to the community, it is important that the County await response from the U.S. Forest Service and that you do not proceed with the draconian measures you propose.
“Finally, as I know you are aware, only the Board can alter the budget. We will alert you if the U.S. Forest Service instructs the County to alter the use of the Title III funds.”

County needs to get ahead of water issues

Modoc needs to get on top of the water issues facing the county, before the state takes over.
That’s what Modoc Environmental Health Officer Warren Farnam told the Board of Supervisors at Tuesday’s meeting. He was reporting on two meetings he had recently attended in Sacramento.
He told the Board the state is looking for solutions to the water crisis and long-term management, and those should come from the County level. But, he stressed, if the counties do not step up, the state will. Currently, Farnam said there are no counties with a viable plan and Modoc would be starting at “zip.”
While there is a new emphasis on groundwater (well) management, Farnam said the state is also looking at storage, surface water management and other areas.
Farnam stressed that it was vital the County draft its own program, which has to be comprehensive and include water planning, management and regulation.

Group sues Forest Service on Devil’s Garden wild horses

An anticipated lawsuit was filed Monday by wild horse advocates in an effort to stop the gathering of the Devil’s Garden herd.
The plaintiff’s in the suit include the America Wild Horse Preservation campaign, the Return to Freedom horse sanctuary and advocate Carla Bowers, who has spent some time in Modoc County testifying before groups and agencies.
Acting Modoc National Forest Supervisor Ann Carlson was expecting the suit, and is concerned for the environment and overall health of the Devil’s Garden.
While the wild horse advocates believe there are about 1,100 horses on the Devil’s Gardena area, Carlson said her staff gave her a number of 1,575 horses Monday. The MNF has set an Appropriate Management Level, AML, for the Devil’s Garden Territory of between 206 and 402 horses.

Obituaries—

Lizzette Flournoy
The memorial celebration for Lizzette Flournoy will be held at the Likely Fire Hall in Likely, CA on Saturday, March 29 at 11 a.m., followed by a potluck fellowship.
Memorial donations may be directed to the Likely Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 515, Likely, CA 96116 or Likely Cemetery District, P.O. Box 445, Likely, CA 96116.
Mrs. Flournoy passed away peacefully at her Likely, CA home Thursday, March 13, 2014.

Thelma M. Barker
Thelma Maxine Barker, Modoc County Dept. of Social Services Director for many years, passed away in Alturas on March 23, 2014. She was 87.
Services will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Alturas on Friday, March 28 with viewing at 9 a.m. and the service at 10 a.m. Interment immediately following, and fellowship to follow in the Church Hall, 1042 East 13th St., Alturas.
Thelma was born in Klamath Falls, Oregon on October 7, 1926. Her obituary will be published in a future issue.

Georgia E. Smith
Georgia E. Smith, a former long-time resident of Alturas, CA, passed away in Springfield, Oregon on March 24, 2014. Services are pending.
A date for a service in Alturas is pending, and that information along with a complete obituary will be provided as soon as possible.
Georgia E. Smith is survived by her children, Richard M. Smith of Eugene, OR and Carolyn J. Cranford of Sacramento, CA.

Barbara Jones
Barbara Jones of Cedarville passed away March 13, 2014 at Warnerview Skilled Nursing center in Alturas, CA. A celebration of Mrs. Jones’ life will be held April 4 at 11 a.m. at the Surprise Valley Community Church Hall, 405 Bonner Street in Cedarville. Mrs. Jones’ obituary will be published next week.

Anna F. Bannan
Anna Fern Bannan of Alturas passed away March 23, 2014 in Alturas, CA. Mrs. Bannan was born in Los Angeles County on February 14, 1929.
Memorial services will be held at Kerr Chapel in Alturas on Friday, March 28 at 2 p.m. Mrs. Bannan’s obituary will follow in a future issue.

Phyliss Grivel
Alturas native Phyllis Lorraine (Ballard) Grivel of Susanville, CA passed away March 18, 2014 in Susanville. A family celebration of her life will take place at a later date.
Born to Loran and Annie Ballard of Alturas on May 1, 1930 in Alturas, CA, Phyllis attended local schools and was a member of Job’s Daughters.

Judath James
A memorial Celebration of Life for Judath (Larson) James will be held Saturday, April 12 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Alturas Elks Lodge on Main Street. This will be a potluck fellowship. Friends and family welcome.
Judath passed away from a courageous battle with breast cancer on Monday, November 18, 2013, in Glendive, Montana, at the age of 42 years old.

Beverly McNeilly
Former Alturas resident Beverly Ann McNeilly died March 21, 2014 at the age of 62 after a diligent four-year battle with cervical cancer. Born in Indiana March 3, 1952 and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, she attended Macalester College and earned a B.A. in Social Science; she earned an M.A. in Urban Education from Cal State Los Angeles.
A life-long Episcopalian, Bev’s Memorial Service will be held at St. Paul’s Parish, Point of Rocks, Maryland on Saturday March 29 at 10:30 a.m. Gifts in memory of Beverly McNeilly can be made to Hillcrest School or the Judy Center, 1285 Hillcrest Dr., Frederick, MD 21703 or Macalester College, Donor Relations Office, 1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN, 55105, or online at  macalester.edu. In the comments box, please write “In Memory of Beverly McNeilly.”

Holice Freeman
Holice Glaughter Freeman, (aka “H.G.”) 66, passed away peacefully at his home in Alturas, California on March 9, 2014. Mr. Freeman was born December 10, 1947 in New Orleans, Louisiana to the late Holice G. Freeman Sr. and Jeanette Freeman.
Homegoing celebration for Holice was held March 18 at 1 p.m. at Stewart’s Rose Manor Funeral Service in Richmond, CA.

Sports

Modoc’s drop 3 at Maxwell

Modoc’s varsity baseball team dropped all three games at the Maxwell tournament last weekend. They open Shasta Cascade League play hosting Fall River March 27, 2 p.m.
The Braves lost to Portola 5-1 in the opening game of the tourney and
Maxwell blanked the Braves 12-0 in the second game. Fall River beat the Braves 9-2 to round out the tourney.

Modoc golf team improving

Modoc’s golf team played in the Pleasant Valley Invitational in Chico Monday. The players struggled under a very worn course and scores reflected playing from uneven lies and putting on inconsistent and damaged greens.
This weeks highlights: Alan Weber tied for first overall in the league match and had his season PR. Cam Johnston had his 18-hole PR and his first birdie, ever. Ole Kyllo broke 100. Angie Hall competed in her first match with only three weeks of golf practice in her life. Brandon Witherspoon missed PR by 2 strokes.
 Modoc heads to Fall River today for the third league match, weather pending.
 This week’s scores at Lake Shastina (League): Weber 75, Johnston 94, Witherspoon 103, Kyllo 99 and Hall 73. Scores at Pleasant Valley: Weber 88, Johnston 101, Witherspoon 117 and Kyllo 113.

Work begins at Alturas Motocross track

Track work began at Alturas Motocross Park (AMX), Saturday morning with over 20 volunteers from the community and Modoc Motorsports Association (MMA).
They worked to complete the fence work and start moving dirt to build the newest motocross park, MMA at AMX, (Alturas Motocross). The park is set up to accommodate quad and dirt bike racing for kids of all ages, spectators, day use pits, overnight camping and vendors. 
"MMA would not be able to accomplish all we do without the support of the City of Alturas, our generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers,” said Kyle Williams, MMA President. “We have several sponsorship packages available ranging from $100 to $500 dollars. MMA is a non-profit organization so your donation is tax deductible. We accept donations of any kind from financial assistance to small and large equipment. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor or member of MMA, contact Williams at 530-640-6466.
MMA at AMX 2014 tentative race series dates are: May 31 - June 1; June 28 – 29; July 19 – 20; August 2 – 3; and October 11 – 12.
On race days gates open at 6:30 a.m. with signups at 7:00 a.m. On practice days gates open at 9:00 a.m., practice 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

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April 3, 2014

News

Tuesday is recall election day

Voters in County Supervisor District Four will go to the polls Tuesday April 8 to decide the fate of the county. 
Voters in the District will decide whether Supervisor Jim Wills should be recalled. A no vote on the recall is in support of Wills and makes the second question meaningless. The second question would be to vote a replacement between Wills and challenger Dan Lowry. District voters have received sample ballots.
The April 8 recall election in Supervisor District Four will have two physical polling places, which should have been listed on voter’s sample ballots.
Voters in Alturas B and Hot Spring precincts will cast ballots at Alturas City Hall and California Pines precinct voters will vote at the California Pines Lodge. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Election Day. Some voters will cast ballots by mail only.
Wills was elected in November 2012 and took his seat in January 2013.

March roars in, roars out, water picture improves

March came in like the proverbial lion and roared out just the same way. In its wake, it left a better water picture for Modoc, but no one’s saying the drought is in the rear-view mirror.
However, Modoc may be faring better than those people dependant on the Sierra Nevada snow pack, which is said to be about 20 percent of normal.
March was a water boon for Modoc. The Alturas measurement showed 2.15 inches of precipitation for the month, well above the normal of 1.52 inches.
Duane McGarva, the National Weather Service observer in Jess Valley reported 4.03 inches of precipitation for March, just below the record of 4.25 in 1983. The average is 1.96 inches for the month. Since July 1, 2013, he has measured 11.86 inches of precipitation for the station.
While it was wet, only 6.5 inches of snow was measured in Jess Valley.
The mid and northern Warner Mountains have fared much better over the last month. As of Tuesday, Dismal Swamp at 7,000 feet had 62 inches of snow, well above the 36 inches on Feb. 20. Cedar Pass shows 39 inches of snow at 7,100 feet this week, up from Feb. 20’s 14 inches. Adin Mountain now has 12 inches at 6,200, up from five inches Feb. 20 and two inches March 13.

Modoc jobless rates dips to 13.2%

While it wasn’t much, Modoc’s unemployment rate dropped from 13.3 percent in January to 13.2 percent in February 2014. The jobless rate in February 2013 was 15.4 percent.
The civilian labor force in Modoc for February 2014 numbered 3,550 with 3,080 employed and 470 unemployed. Last February, there were 550 unemployed out of a labor force of 3,570.
In December, 2013 the unemployment rate stood at 10.8 percent with 3,190 people employed and 390 out of work.

 PO to start address change April 15

The U.S. Postal Service is starting a program here to change Highway Contract box numbers in the Alturas area, and will be phasing the process in and getting everyone to a single address.
For many years residents of Alturas and the surrounding communities have lived with a dual address system – one address for mail and another physical address for everything else.
We are beginning the process of phasing out this dual system and merge them into a single delivery address.
“Working in coordination with the Modoc County Planning Office, we will be spearheading the effort which will allow a more efficient delivery service,” said David Rupert, PO spokesman. “It will improve 911 responses, planning and zoning, and simple driving instructions. The change will also help with package delivery, which is often shared among many companies, including USPS.
Due to the large number of affected customers, the process will be implemented in stages divided by geographic areas.

Adin Park set for big upgrades

The Adin Community Park is earmarked for some major improvements this year.
Modoc Supervisors approved the $154,945 project Tuesday, which will include items like an irrigation system; ballfield lighting and restrooms will be designed to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
Newly appointed project Manager Christine Gibson presented the overall plan to the Supervisors Tuesday and stressed the project will move forward on a priority list. The funds for the project are a grant through the State Parks and Recreation Office. The project has a deadline for completion of March 2015.
In addition to the above improvements, Gibson said she hopes to include concrete walkways, walkway lighting, resurfacing the front parking lot, repairing the gravel parking area, basketball court repairs, chain link fence along Ash Valley Road, a storage container and planting trees and shrubs.
Optional items that could be included if funds allow are: water filter system, barbecue area, new horse shoe pits, stage area between playground and ball field, gazebos, bleachers and dugout repairs, new mower, new fence along Spring Street and a memorial area at the corner of Ash Valley Road and Main Street.

BLM’s Burke named Arizona Strip District Manager

Tim Burke, manager of the Bureau of Land Management's Alturas and Surprise field offices in northeast California, has been named manager of the BLM's Arizona Strip District in northwest Arizona.
As district manager, Burke will oversee about two million acres of rugged, remote public lands and about 100 employees.  He reports for duty in mid-May.  Burke’s replacement in northern California has not yet been determined.
Burke has been the Alturas field manager for the past 16 years and for the past two years has also been the acting field manager for the BLM office in Cedarville.  He has been a BLM employee since 1979, working in Utah, Nevada, central California and New Mexico before coming to Alturas.

Obituaries—

Barbara Jones
Barbara Jones passed away on March 14, 2014 at the Warnerview Convalescent Hospital in Alturas, CA, with her daughter and staff at her side.
Barbara was born at her aunt Jane Wallace’s house in Cedarville, CA on June 2, 1921 to Boyd and Margaret Peterson.
Celebration of Life will be Friday, April 4, 2014 at the Surprise Valley Church’s Community Hall, at 11 a.m., followed by a potluck meal (meat provided by the family) and stories. The officiant will be the Rev. Dr. Ben Zandstra. Private burial was at the Cedarville Cemetery. Honorary Pallbearers were Scott Gooch, Virgil Gooch, Ben Gooch, Bob Gooch, Billy Gooch and Ben D. Zandstra. Kerr Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

Gladys Van Slyke
Longtime Alturas resident Gladys Lucille Van Slyke passed on March 26, 2014 in Alturas. A celebration of life service was held Sunday, March 30 at Kerr Mortuary Chapel in Alturas. Mrs. Van Slyke was born October 26, 1926 in Dover, Arkansas.

Judath (Larson) James
A memorial Celebration of Life for Judath (Larson) James will be held Saturday, April 12 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Alturas Elks Lodge on Main Street. This will be a potluck fellowship. Friends and family welcome.

Sports

Modoc girls win Yreka, Maxwell tourneys

Modoc’s varsity softball team won the Yreka tournament last weekend, defeating the host team in the title game. They are at Burney April 4.
The Braves opened Shasta Cascade League play March 27 with a sweep of the Fall River Bulldogs. They sport a 13-3 overall record and are 2-0 in the SCL.
Morgan Bagwell got the win in the opening game against Fall River 10-5. She went seven innings, allowed five runs on eight hits, walked four and struck out nine.
The second game was tight with Mmelissa Knoch getting the win 5-4. She pitched all seven, allowing four runs on eight hits, struck out nine and did not walk a batter.
In the final tourney game against Yreka, the Braves went extra innings for the 9-8 win
Modoc beat Trinity 2-1 in Yreka and beat Etna 7-5. Modoc held off Mt. Shasta 6-5. The Braves lost the first game of the tourney to Yreka 9-0.
The previous week, the Braves won the Maxwell Tournament, beating Pierce 15-2, Los Molinos 20-5 and Maxwell 10-6.
On Tuesday, Modoc split with Bonanza 5-4 and 7-5.

Modoc splits with Fall River

Modoc’s baseball team split a double-header with Fall River last week, winning the opener 4-2 and losing the nightcap 5-1. They are at Burney April 4. The Braves took a doublebill from Bonanza Tuesday, 5-0 and 13-2.

Modoc golf in middle of pack

Modoc’s young golf team finished in the middle of the pack at the Shasta Cascade League match in Fall River March 27.
The team was 5-5 against the team in the event, with Trinity on top at 10-0.
This was the first match that the Braves could field a full team.
“We played in cool and breezy conditions with a little rain from time to time that really didn’t affect play,” said coach Harold Montague. “Cam Johnston shot his low round of the year and both Cam Brush and Austin Cook competed in their first matches of the year as well.”
Alan Weber led Modoc by shooting an 80, while Johnston shot 93, Ole Kyllo shot 110, Brandon Witherspoon 113, Brush 140 and Cook 147.

Track team does well

Modoc’s track team opened at the Burt Williams Classic in Central Valley last weekend and came away with some good results. They are at Enterprise this week for the Hornet Classic.
Modoc's JV Boys team took third in Central Valley.  The Varsity Girls were led by defending Division Four Discus Champion, Claudia Serrano who won the discus with personal record toss of 93-10. Reigning Shasta Cascade MVP, Stephanie Gouveia ran quality early season times within five seconds of each of her personal records.
The JV Girls did well. Emily Lowery who is working at a new event, smoked the field in the 800 at 2:44.86 and ran second at 57.9 in the 300 hurdles. Lowry also grabbed a second in the high jump at 4-4. Annie Price made the finals in the women shot and discus in her first meet.  
JV boys were led by Tristan Osborne's first in both shot at 39-3 and discus at 91-3. Modoc distance standout Michael Bratton set personal best in the 800, 1600 and 3200.

April 10, 2014

News

Supervisor Jim Wills wins with nearly 60% of vote

Voters overwhelmingly retained Modoc County District Four Supervisor Jim Wills with 59.54 percent of the vote in a contentious special recall election Tuesday.
Wills won three of the four precincts, Hot Spring, Alturas B and California Pines, while losing just Canby. Wills won Alturas B with 68.8 percent of the vote 62-28; Cal Pines with 72.39 percent, 118-45; Hot Springs with 58.87 percent. The recall proponents won Canby with 65.49 percent, 74-39.
The vote on the recall, though unofficial until verified, was 365 against the recall and 248 for the recall, a 117-vote margin.
“I would like to thank everyone for their support,” Wills said Wednesday morning. “The Democratic process worked. We can now move forward on the future of Modoc and put this behind us. We have a lot of work to do and are looking forward to getting things done.”
Challenger Dan Lowry received 261 votes on the second part of the ballot, while there were also 34 write-ins. However, once the recall vote was negative, those votes were irrelevant.
Wills, who is now serving as Chairman of the Board, was elected in November 2012 and took his seat in January 2013. He will serve through 2016.

Community asked to help in Alturas rewrite of zoning ordinance

The City of Alturas has hired Contract Planner Jenn Andersen to complete a comprehensive update of the City’s Zoning Ordinance, bringing it into compliance with State Law and its approved General Plan.
“State law has changed a great deal since the City adopted its last ordinance and the needs of the City have changed, so this update is long overdue,” said Andersen.
Andersen notes that cities don't update their zoning ordinances in this way very often, specifically because the changes can affect a lot of people. However, if done correctly, updates can help streamline project processing and improve development opportunities within the City while protecting what is important to its citizens and property owners.
A draft ordinance will be available for public review and comment by the end of this month, and a series of Planning Commission and Community Workshops are planned for May and June to familiarize everyone with the ordinance and how it might affect them, and hear both Planning Commission and community concerns and feedback.  The final Ordinance will be drafted after all workshops have concluded.

Crews plan spring prescribed fires

Modoc National Forest fire managers are evaluating conditions and making plans to conduct prescribed burns in various areas across the forest throughout the spring. These efforts are part of a continuing program to improve forest health, reduce hazardous fuels and enhance wildlife habitat. Fire specialists may implement the following projects: Doublehead Ranger District – South Bench Prescribed Fire – 893 acres, South of Co. Rd. 97, six miles west of Tionesta; Devil’s Garden Ranger District – Washington Mountain Prescribed Fire – 750 acres, west of Highway 139, and approximately eight miles west of Canby.
Crews will begin work on the projects pending appropriate conditions, the availability of personnel and equipment, and air resource board approval.  Fire managers follow a burn plan that outlines the “prescription” or environmental conditions such as temperature, wind, fuel moisture, ventilation, and relative humidity that need to be met before the project begins. 
For more information please contact Mark Deperro, eastside Fuels Officer, 530-233-8878 or Don Glenn, westside Fuels Officer, (530) 667-8658.

Wild Horses fertility control priority of BLM budget

Among the Bureau of Land Management’s Fiscal Year 2015 budget priorities in President Obama’s requested $1.1 billion for the agency are a non-profit foundation, a fee system to cover BLM’s oil and gas inspection and enforcement activities, fertility control for wild horses and burros, an updated online data and mapping system and Sage-Grouse habitat conservation.  
The Wild Horse program and Sage Grouse programs are major areas of concern in this part of the nation.
management.  Our key initiatives for FY 2015 reflect our focus on laying a solid foundation for the future.”
The FY 2015 priorities include:
• Fertility Control for Wild Horses and Burros:  The budget calls for an increase of $2.8 million for the Wild Horse and Burro program that would allow the BLM to continue multi-year studies focused on the development of more effective and longer-lasting fertility control agents and techniques. It would also further the BLM’s implementation of the National Academy of Sciences recommendations made in 2013.

Obituaries -

Georgia Smith
Georgia E. Smith, 95, of Eugene, Oregon, a former long-time resident of Alturas, California, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2014 at Sacred Heart Medical Center at Riverbend in Springfield, Oregon, with her son Richard and daughter Carolyn at her side.
Georgia was born October 21, 1918, in Manhattan, Kansas to Matilda  and Alva Troy. Her father worked for the railroad and his employment took the family to New Mexico, Texas, El Centro, CA, Klamath Falls, OR, and finally to Alturas, CA in 1929. Georgia, one of five children, completed elementary school at Alturas Elementary School in 1932 and graduated from Modoc Union High School in 1936.
Per her request, a memorial service for Georgia will be held at the Federated Community Church in Alturas, officiated by Reverend Ben Zandstra, on Friday, April 11 at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Shriners Hospital of Northern California, 2425 Stockton Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95817, Shriners Hospital of Portland, Oregon, 3101 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, OR 97239-3009; online at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org., or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

William ‘Duge’ Stanford
William “Duge” Stanford of Sparks, NV passed away at the Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, NV on the morning of Friday, April 4, 2014.
Duge was born on October 30, 1963 to Pete and Bonnie Stanford, the youngest of three children.
Graveside service will be held in Adin, CA April 26, 2014 at 10 a.m.
Please join the family for a reception following the service at the Brass Rail, in Alturas CA, at 1 p.m.

George Ohm
Alturas born and longtime resident George Ohm passed away in Redding, CA on April 3, 2014. Graveside services will be held today, April 10 at 11 a.m. at the Alturas Cemetery. A Potluck time of fellowship will follow at Faith Baptist Church on West Carlos Street, Alturas. George was born February 2, 1940. His obituary will be published next week. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Elrene Wallace
Elrene Gay Wallace died at the Lake District Hospital, Lakeview, OR on Friday, April 4, 2014 at the age of 75.
She was born to Samuel and Wilma (Roberts) Sweeney in Lake City, CA on November 12, 1938. She grew up in Fort Bidwell where she attended Elementary School and then completed her education at Surprise Valley High School in Cedarville.
A funeral service was held at Desert Rose Funeral Chapel on Monday, April 7, 2014 at 3 p.m. with the committal in the Fort Bidwell Cemetery on Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at 10:00 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Oregon/SW Washington Chapter, 8196 SW Hall Blvd., Suite 103, Beaverton, OR 97008-6411 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Desert Rose Funeral Chapel was in charge of the arrangements.

James S. Moore
James Sell Moore, age 99, died at the Lake District Hospital Thursday, March 27, 2014, following a brief illness. 
Jim was born to James H. and Hulda L. (Sell) Moore Oct. 23, 1914 in Los Angeles, CA, where he grew up and worked most of his life.
Private burial took place at the Fort Bidwell Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of Ousley Osterman Huffstutter.

Judath James
A memorial Celebration of Life for Judath (Larson) James will be held Saturday, April 12 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Alturas Elks Lodge on Main Street. This will be a potluck fellowship. Friends and family welcome.
Judath passed away from a courageous battle with breast cancer on Monday, November 18, 2013, in Glendive, Montana, at the age of 42 years old.

Sports

Braves take two from Burney

Modoc’s baseball team took a pair of Shasta Cascade League games from Burney last Friday, 8-6 and 5-2. They’re off until April 15 when they play Lost River. They are at the Shasta Lake Tournament in Central Valley April 16-18.
In the second game, the Braves took a 7-2 lead in the first inning and added one more run in the fifth. Burney added one in the second, two in the fourth and one in the fifth inning.
Jarret Royce got the win, going seven innings, allowing six runs on nine hits, two earned, fanned five and walked three.
Daniel Beebout and Tyler Ewing led the offense, each going 2-4. Tyler Doss, Alex Valencia and Dillon Egle each added a hit.
The first game was tight with the teams tied a 2-2 in the second. Modoc added three in the top of the seventh and didn’t allow another Raider run.
Valencia went all seven innings for the win, allowing two runs on two hits, walked three and struck out two.
Ewing went 2-3 at the plate, while David Buckley, Valencia, Ben Jones, Doss and Grady Ingraham each had one hit.
The Braves are now 3-1 in the SCL and 6-6 overall.

Modoc girls 4-0 in SCL

Modoc’s tough girls’ softball team is now 4-0 in the Shasta Cascade League and 16-4 overall. They are off until heading to Lost River April 15.
Modoc took a doubleheader from Burney last Friday 14-1 and 7-4.
Morgan Bagwell got the win on the mound in the opening game. She went five, allowed just one hit, one run, struck out nine and walked two.
The Braves scored three in the first, three in the third, seven in the fifth and one in the sixth. Burney scored its run in the first.
Bagwell was also 2-4 at the plate, with Valerie Froeming, Pricila Madrigal, Melissa Knoch, Kristen Reed and Macie Larranaga each getting a hit.
Modoc had a tougher time in the second game getting down 3-2 in the first inning, but went up 4-3 in the third and added one in the sixth and two in the seventh. Burney added one run in the fourth.
Knoch was the winning pitcher. She tossed all seven, allowing four runs on seven hits, one earned, struck out five and didn’t walk a batter. Knoch led the offense with a 2-3 game, while Kelly Schmidt and Froeming each had a hit.

Tracksters getting into better shape

Modoc track athletes are starting to get into better shape and are producing some solid performances.
Claudia Serrano continued her quest for state finals in the discus by placing fourth at the North State’s largest meet. She tossed a personal best of 97'7".
Stephanie Gouveia, in her first 3,200 meter race, smashed her personal record by over 10 seconds, running a 13:09.
Junior varsity’s Emily Lowry placed fourth in the girls open 400 meters with a 67-second time. On the boys side, Allen Clark tossed the discus 114' 9". Shot putters Tristan Osborne and Troy Culp place sixth and eighth, both setting PR's.
JV runner Jonas Collier continued his rise the 800-meter ranks with a 2:20 time.
Modoc travels to Mount Shasta for the Fair Weather Meet on April 10.

Spring sports

The spring sports season is underway.
Modoc High School’s Baseball team is at Lost River April 15, 4:30 p.m.; Central Valley Tourney April 16-18.
Modoc’s softball team is at Lost River April 15, 4:30 p.m.
Modoc’s track team is at Mt. Shasta today.
The Modoc golf team is at Modoc April 15, 12 noon; and at Mt. Shasta April 17.

April 17, 2014

News

Amanda McAdams selected as Modoc National Forest Supervisor

Amanda McAdams will takeover as the Modoc National Forest Supervisor and will begin her position June 2, 2014. Her selection was announced this week.
 McAdams is currently the District Ranger on the southeast zone of the Fremont-Winema National Forest. As she begins the transition into her new position she comments, “Being a Forest Supervisor is a humbling experience. I’m excited about this opportunity and take this responsibility seriously.”
 She began her career with the National Park Service in 1992, and immediately became interested in learning about the role of fire on the landscape. 
“Fire is a part of the ecosystem, but can be dangerous to manage,” McAdams said. “We will use risk-based decisions to identify the best opportunities to be successful.”
She has worked as a fire effects monitor and fire ecologist for the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, The Nature Conservancy and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. She served as the Regional Fire Strategist/Fire Use Specialist in the Intermountain Region prior to moving into her current position. 

Alturas mill nearing operation

It appears the small log mill at the Alturas Mill site is going to be up and running in the next couple of months. The Council held its first Tuesday afternoon meeting since 1984 this week.
John Lance, of Warner Mountain Lumber Company, told the Alturas City Council Tuesday that four to five employees arenow working at the site and he expects the mill to start producing in May or early June. Once it goes on line, Lance told the Council it should provide about 20 jobs.
The mill will use small logs up to about 12 inches in diameter to start. The finished products would be four-by-fours, two-by-fours and possibly some one-inch lumber. In some cases, the products could be more landscape oriented.
Lance believes there is good potential for the mill’s success in Alturas and likes the idea of putting local people back to work in the logging and lumber business.
The Council is supportive of the new mill and agreed to a rent offset until August. That rent is $1,500 per month. The regular rent agreement will come back into place after August.
Lance told the Council that there were logs decked at the mill site and work is ongoing to get the mill set up and operable. One big thing will be the installation of the electric power. The City granted an easement to Pacific Power on Tuesday to bring the power lines underground to the control panel.
He also said he appreciated working with the City and Public Works Director Joe Picotte in a very cooperative manner.
The Council also agreed, under protest, to continue to pay the Sheriff’s Office $375 per month for dispatch services.

Lions roll out Easter Egg Hunt Saturday

“Get there early,” is the advice given for all children, infant to age 10, who want to participate in the Alturas Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 19. The hunt starts promptly at 1:00 p.m. at the Veterans’ Park, So. Main St., Alturas.
Arrive early to locate the age-designated areas before the hunt begins. Infant to age two will hunt on the front lawn, in front of Veterans’ Hall. Special Needs children will hunt in front of the former Chamber of Commerce office. Four other age groups (ages three and four; five and six; seven and eight and nine and 10) will be designated by lawn signs around the park.
Children should bring their egg gathering containers to collect the 144 dozen eggs donated by Holiday Market. The Lions will provide an additional 200 plastic eggs, filled with candy.

County proposes Over-the-Horizon Backscatter Radar site study

The Doublehead Ranger District of the Modoc National Forest is seeking public input on issues, concerns, and opportunities associated with a proposal to issue a five-year site survey and testing permit to the County of Modoc. 
The County plans to conduct studies focused on the feasibility of renewable energy generation at the existing Over-the-Horizon Backscatter Radar Site.  Studies would involve determining the capacity of existing utility lines and the feasibility of upgrading capacity to move any generated power.
 County activities would take place at and near the existing decommissioned 936-acre radar site located directly south of Doublehead Mountain and about three miles south of the Clear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.  Access to the study area would be by existing roads with no ground disturbing activities proposed.  All County activities would be conducted without disruption to the operations of the U.S. Air Force that manages the radar site.
 Public involvement in the analysis of the County application is encouraged and comments are welcomed.  For more information on the County application to conduct site survey and testing, please contact Jayne Biggerstaff at jbiggerstaff@fs.fed.us. 

Obituaries:

Marion Mackey
Marion Gordon Mackey, a longtime rancher, homemaker and artist, passed away April 12, 2014 in Alturas, CA.
Born in Hollywood, CA on February 5, 1917, Marion graduated from South Pasadena High School and studied at Pomona College for three years.
The family is planning a service for a later date to be announced. Donations in memory of Marion Mackey may be directed to Modoc County Arts Council, P.O. Box 2015, Alturas, CA 96101

Lorraine Dishman
Lorraine Leila Dishman began her long awaited walk in heaven on April 6, 2014, at the age of 92. Lorraine was born on August 10, 1921 to the late Arthur and Johanna Gruenwald on their family farm in Oakfield, Wisconsin.
A memorial service will be held at The Church of Christ in Alturas on Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m., a private family gathering will follow at Burney Falls. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that all donations be directed to the California SIDS Program, 3164 Gold Camp Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Ph: 800-369-7437 or to Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital Ph: 800-805-5856.

Carl A. Parks
Carl A. Parks, 94, was found dead on April 2, 2014, on an isolated Forest Service Road, south of Adin, California.  He died in inclement weather conditions, while attempting to find assistance for his wife Marian, who had been left in their stuck vehicle.
A Memorial Service will be conducted April 19 in the Fall River Mills Masonic Building at 10 a.m., graveside Military Funeral will be conducted at the Nubieber Foothill Cemetery (approximately 11:30), a reception with a potluck lunch to be held in the Big Valley Saint Stevens Catholic Church around noon.
Instead of flowers, the family requested donations be made to the Masons/Shrines Lodge in Fall River Mills.

Alice Harker
A “Celebration of Life” service for Alice Harker will be held on Friday, April 18 at the Veterans’ Memorial Hall, So. Main St., Alturas from noon until 4 p.m.
Alice was a resident of Alturas for 30 years. She was in TOPS for the whole 30 years. She loved going to the Monday Night Jam and playing her harmonica. She loved to play cards and “Go” places. Come and join us for coffee and cookies and talk about your memories of this wonderful lady, our beloved Mother.

Kenneth Neal
Kenneth Wayne Neal, a Likely, CA resident since 1982, passed away April 11, 2014, of natural causes in Redding, CA at Shasta Regional Medical Center.
Born in Fresno, CA on August 31, 1958, he attended Piner High School in Santa Rosa, CA.
Services will be held Saturday, May 3 at the Likely Fire Hall, Likely at 2 p.m., with potluck to follow.

Herbert Mardon
Herbert William Mardon was born in Los Angeles on January 20, 1932, to Alberta Mardon and Alice Holmes.
Herbert passed away on November 19, 2013 after complications from surgery to remove colon cancer.
We know that he is in a better place and is living the rest of eternity painting, cooking, gardening and most of all surrounded by the family who went before him.

Sports

Braves whip Lost River

Modoc’s baseball team used several pitchers to beat the Lost River Raiders 8-2. The team is at the Central Valley Tournament this weekend.
Modoc led 2-0 after two and added six runs in the sixth. Lost River scored one in the fifth and one in the seventh.
Leading hits were Tyler Ewing who went 3-4; David Buckley 2-4; Jarret Royce 2-4; Daniel Beebout 1-2, a home run; and Dillon Egle 1-3.

Brave girls trounce Lost River

The Modoc Braves softball team trounced Lost River 18-8 April 15. They are hosting Mt. Shasta April 22.
Modoc scored eight runs in the first inning, added one in the second, eight in the third and one in the fifth. Lost River scored four in the first, three in the second and one in the fifth.
Melissa Knoch went 3.2 innings, allowing one run on nine hits, walked one and fanned one. Morgan Bagwell allowed seven runs in 1.1 innings, allowed four hits, walked eight and struck out one.
Kirsten Jones led the offense with a 4-4 day, while Pricila Madrigal was 4-5, Kristen Reed 3-5, Macie Larranaga and Kelly Schmidt 2-3, Knoch 2-4, Valerie Froeming 2-5 and Beth Derner and Bagwell one hit each.

Modoc runner sets meet record

Mount Shasta hosted its annual Fair Weather meet on Thursday April 10th. Modoc sent 13 athletes.
Stephanie Gouveia set a meet record in the 1600 meters, besting the record held by Modoc's own Ashley Hoy. Gouveia also set a personal best in the 3200 meters.
Modoc athletes use the meet as a training tool versus a meet to peek performance. Modoc High was on spring break and any training was important for future success.
Claudia Serrano set another personal best, but not in her specialty the discus. She tossed the shot put a distance of 28-6. Bailey Doss set two personal records in the discus and shot. Jonas Collier had another great day. Madison Toomey set personal records in both the 110 hurdles and 300 meter hurdles.
Modoc's next meet is on April 26th at the Sterling Invitational at Oregon Tech.

April 24, 2014

News

Board declines Sheriff's request for tax increase

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday declined to approve a tax increase requested by County Sheriff Mike Poindexter.
Poindexter wanted the Board to approve an increase in the vehicle license fees of $1 per standard vehicle and $3 per commercial vehicle to help cover fingerprinting services and another $1 and $4 to cover "enhanced efforts to prosecute crimes involving vehicle theft, driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter."
One issue that came up immediately was that pickups are considered commercial vehicles and would be subject to the higher fee. There was some confusion expressed by the Sheriff's Office as to whether the actual increase would be $3 for standard vehicles and $7 for commercial vehicles.
According to the Sheriff's figures, there are 4,590 autos and 3,778 commercial vehicles under DMV registration fees in Modoc now. An increase in the tax would generate $13,770 for autos and $26,446 for commercial vehicles each year for a total of $40,216.
While Poindexter told the Board that he was asking for the increases to offset the costs of the livescan machine (fingerprinting) and to help provide funding for the Modoc Task Force, that generated some strong feelings from District Attorney Jordan Funk.
"I was never informed that anyone, let alone the Sheriff, was planning to go before the Board of Supervisors to ask the Board to increase taxes on Modoc County residents 'in the name of enhancing prosecution,' for certain crimes," Funk said. "I learned of it for the first time this (Tuesday) morning. As soon as I heard what the Sheriff had planned, I read the applicable statute and then immediately went before the Board to oppose the requested tax increase in the strongest possible terms. I did not authorize, and would never have authorized the Sheriff to seek, on my behalf or on behalf of 'enhanced criminal prosecution' [for certain vehicle related crimes], an increase in taxes on Modoc County citizens."

Mill goes into final stages for opening

While a layperson might look at the state of construction at the Warner Mountain Lumber Company Mill in Alturas as a long way from opening, owner John Lance said on Monday they are in good shape.
Lance said crews are in the finishing construction stages on the equipment, with Pacific Power getting ready to connect its service. He expects to be testing the equipment and moving forward sometime between May 15 and June 1.
Lance guided Alturas Mayor John Dederick around the facility Monday. Lance is leasing the building and land from the City of Alturas. Lance said he it took 13 truckloads to deliver all the equipment at the site. Most of the machinery came from a mill that had been closed in Salem, Or.
As of now, there is about a half-million board feet of logs decked at the mill site. The logging is being done by Tubit out of Burney and transportation is also local. Most of the logs at the mill have come off the Modoc National Forest, from a sale off Loveness Road.
Lance is anxious to get the mill up and running and generating some income.
The mill will be able to process logs from about five-and-a-half inches to 18 inches in diameter. He figures the mill will process about 15 million board feet annually and he hopes most of that can come off the Modoc Forest. The mill is designed to cut about five logs a minute.

Coyote hunt in jeopardy

The California Fish and Game Commission is delaying its decision on extending state Endangered Species Act protections to gray wolves. The postponement comes after the commission heard several hours of public testimony at its meeting in Ventura last week.
The Commission is also proposing a ban on contests that reward hunters who kill coyotes and other predators. The Commission has issued a proposed rule that would make it illegal to offer a prize, inducement or reward for killing predators.
That decision would directly impact the annual Coyote hunt in Adin. The attention brought to the Adin Hunt last year sparked the protest.
Project Coyote argued in a letter, which also included several thousand signatures on petitions, that the California Department of Fish and Wildlife "Regulations are consistent with its existing predator policy, which applies to all species of wildlife and only authorizes the application of depredation methods toward individual animals which have caused injury or damage to private property . . . to incorporate ethical standards and economic consideration that reflect the valuable role predators play in maintaining ecosystem functioning, resilience and health as well as public values/appreciation for wildlife predators."

Burn permits required May 1

Effective Thursday, May 1, 2014 the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Lassen – Modoc – Plumas Unit will require dooryard burning permits for residential burning within Lassen, Modoc and Plumas Counties
Burning permits are required from May 1 to midnight June 30 for all residential burning on State Responsibility Area Lands. 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) 257-2876 or 257-BURN; Modoc County – (530) 233-6401 or (530) 640-2900.
At midnight June 30, 2014, a burning suspension will go into effect until the end of the 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; people cannot burn in a burn barrel unless authorized by the APCD.
Burning can only be done in Modoc during permissive times: May 1, 2014 through May 31, 2014 – Open Hours; June 1, 2014 through June 30, 2014 – 7 p.m. to 10 a.m.

Obituasries:

Frank Ewing
Frank Ewing went home to be with his Lord on April 7, 2014. His passing came at Renown Hospital, Reno, NV.
Frank was born March 24, 1941 in Murrieta, California.
Mr. Ewing's memorial service will be held May 17 at 2 p.m. at the Rachel Dorris/Veterans' Park, located behind the Modoc Museum and across from Sully's RV Park in Alturas.

Delbert "Bill" Lynch
Delbert William Lynch, born in Alturas, CA January 3, 1936, passed away on December 20, 2013 in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Mr. Lynch completed eighth grade in Alturas. He joined the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was discharged as a PFC on August 1957.
Inurnment was in Cedarville, CA next to his mother's grave.

William "Duge" Stanford
Graveside services for William "Duge" Stanford will be held in Adin, CA April 26, 2014 at 10 a.m. Please join the family for a reception following the service at the Brass Rail, in Alturas CA at 1 p.m.
William "Duge" Stanford of Sparks, NV passed away at the Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, NV on the morning of Friday, April 4, 2014.

Lorraine Dishman
Lorraine Leila Dishman began her long awaited walk in heaven on April 6, 2014, at the age of 92. A memorial service will be held at The Church of Christ in Alturas on Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m.; a private family gathering will follow at Burney Falls. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that all donations be directed to the California SIDS Program, 3164 Gold Camp Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670. Ph: 800-369-7437 or to Saint Jude's Children's Hospital Ph: 800-805-5856.

Kenneth W. Neal
Kenneth Wayne Neal, a Likely, CA resident since 1982, passed away April 11, 2014, of natural causes in Redding, CA at Shasta Regional Medical Center. Services will be held Saturday, May 3 at the Likely Fire Hall, Likely at 2 p.m., with potluck to follow.
Mr. Neal is survived by his mother Joy Neal of Likely; brother Gary Neal of Likely; sisters Sherrie Hampton of Likely and Kelly Voth of Alturas, CA; nieces Julie Williams of Alturas, Brandy McElhaney of Susanville, Danielle Wilson of Alturas, Stephanie Elsea of Alturas; nephews Dustin Conner of Magalia, CA and Kyle Voth of Magalia, CA.

Arthada Higgs
Arthada Maloa Higgs of Alturas passed away April 19, 2014 in Reno, NV. Visitation will be held at Kerr Mortuary Chapel in Alturas today, April 24 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Services will be held Friday, April 25 at 11 a.m. at Christian Life Assembly, 225 North West B St., Alturas. Burial will follow at the Alturas Cemetery, followed by a potluck fellowship at Christian Life Assembly.

Sports

Braves struggle in CV tourney

Modoc’s varsity baseball team had some trouble in the Central Valley Tournament last weekend. They are at Etna Friday.
The highlight for Modoc was 13-3 win over U-Prep. Modoc scored four in the third, one in the fourth, four in the fifth and four in the sixth. U-Prep scored one in the third and two in the sixth.
Alex Valencia got the win, going six innings, allowing three runs on seven hits, walked three and struck out five. Modoc collected 16 hits in the game with Daniel Beebout going 3-4, Ben Jones and David Buckley each 3-5, Tyler Ewing 2-4, Valencia 2-5 and Grady Ingraham, Tyler Doss and Dillon Egle each had one.
America Christian Academy beat the Braves 9-7. Modoc trailed 6-5 in the first innings and it was tied at 7-7 in the third. ACA scored the winning runs in the fifth.
Jarett Royce got the loss, going six innings, allowing nine runs on nine hits, walked six and fanned five. Buckley, Egle and Ingraham each went 2-3 at the plate while Doss, Ewing, Valencia and Royce each had a hit.
Gridley smashed the Braves 18-1, scoring five in the second, four in the fourth, one in the fifth and eight in the sixth. Modoc scored one in the fourth. Buckley got the loss, going five innings, allowing 10 runs on seven hits, walked four and struck out four.
Paradise shut out the Braves 14-0, allowing just two Modoc hits, one by Valencia and the other by Ewing. Jones got the loss, going 3.1 innings, allowing 14 runs on eight hits and walked 11 batters.
Modoc split with Mt. Shasta in a double-header Tuesday, losing the first 12-5 and winning the second 5-3.
Mt. Shasta took a 3-0 lead in the first and was up 7-1 before the Braves scored four in the fourth the Bears added five in the fifth.
Valencia got the loss, going five innings, allowing seven runs on nine hits, walked one and struck out four. Beebout relieved for two innings, allowing five runs on three hits and walked five. Modoc committed seven errors in the game.
Buckley, Beebout and Egle were each 2-4 at the plate. Modoc won the second game with Royce getting the win. He went all seven, allowed three runs, none earned, on five hits, struck out five and walked one.
Modoc took a 2-1 lead in the first and the Bears tied it at 3-3 in the fourth. Modoc scored the winning two runs in the sixth.
Jones and Ingraham each went 2-3 at the plate.
“After playing seven games in eight days it was nice to end that run with a win,” said coach Tim MacDonnell. “Jarett pitched outstanding. Our defense stepped up and made some plays. The split keeps us in good shape for league at 4-2 heading into Etna Friday.”

Golf team tied for third

Modoc’s golf team will host the final league match of the year at Arrowhead Golf Course this Tuesday beginning at noon.
“We shot our lowest team score of the season and moved into a tie for third in league play last week,” said coach Harold Montague. “Alan Weber led our team in scoring with an 83 and Cam Johnston has been showing steady improvement each week shooting his best 18-hole score of the season, an 86. Along with Cam, Ole Kyllo (97) and Brady Deaton (133) each had personal low scores for the season.”
Also, Arrowhead Golf Course is hosting a fundraiser for the Modoc High golf team Saturday, April 26 beginning at 9:30 a.m. The format is a “Skins” tournament with half the entry fees received being donated to the golf team by Arrowhead Golf Course.
The community is invited to come out and support this event and get to know and play with this year’s golf team members.
Modoc played at the 17th Annual Henley High Tournament April 18 at Running Y.
Weber led the team with a 96, Johnston shot 106, Brandon Witherspoon 115 and Kyllo 111.

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May 1, 2014

News

June election into full swing

Campaign signs are popping up all over the County as the June 3 Primary Election goes into full swing.
There are two highly contested County races, one for Sheriff and the other for Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of voters.
Modoc County Clerk of the Board Stephanie Wellemeyer is running for County Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters against incumbent Darcy Locken. Locken is completing her first term, which has been difficult. Both are qualified for the election.
First term Sheriff Mike Poindexter is facing a strong challenge from Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes.
Running unopposed in June are: Modoc County Schools Superintendent Gary Jones; Assessor Cheri Budmark; District Attorney Jordan Funk; and Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch.
Neither Supervisor Dave Allan in District One or Supervisor Geri Byrne in District Five, was challenged.
Also on the ballot is the Southern Cascades Community Services District whose purpose will be to provide medical and Advanced Life Support ambulance services for Big Valley.

Modoc geothermal energy may get kick-start

Modoc County's geothermal resource is fairly well known, but recent activity and study may give the percolating issue new life and a real future.
Several local agencies and interested parties are and have been working on getting the resource into the functional stage in a variety of areas and places.
Surprise Valley makes use of geothermal now in big ways and there are and have been efforts to use the resource for electrical generation. The Surprise Valley schools and medical clinic are heated by geothermal and the Surprise Valley Hot Springs is a major tourist attraction.
Kelly Hot Springs, just east of Canby is the sight of the Ketler fish farm, which is expanding and successful. Canby's I'SOT organization is also using geothermal in its greenhouse.
Alturas has a geothermal system that heats the Modoc High School Gym and shops, and the used water could be much better utilized for heating other buildings. The Modoc Joint Unified School District also has a capped well between the Middle School and Elementary School that has set idle since the early 1990s. That well has some serious potential for the school, as well as the community, if there is the will for various agencies to cooperate.
A general meeting of those agencies and geothermal experts last Friday lent some hope that a path to success is possible.

March jobless falls to 12.9 percent

The March unemployment rate dropped to 12.9 percent from February's 13.5 percent, according to the California Employment Development Department.
According to EDD, the civilian labor force in March numbered 3,610, up from February's 3,570 and close to March 2013 at 3,600. The number of unemployed in March was 460, compared to 480 in February and 510 in March last year.

MJUSD Moves Forward

The Modoc Joint Unified School District successfully weathered the last seven years of the California budget crisis and is moving forward to better serve its students.
At a recent meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the hiring of four additional teaching staff. The positions added address specific, critical areas of need for students. Two teaching positions are being added at Alturas Elementary School, one at Modoc Middle School, and one at Modoc High School.
The teaching staff and administration at each site worked collaboratively over a period of months to come up with how they would like the sites to operate beginning next school year. Those visions were then presented to the governing board. After analyzing the plans, student performance data, staffing levels, budget constraints and other various data, the board unanimously voted to move forward with each of the three plans presented.

Obituaries—

Harold William Siemer
Harold William Siemer, born in Santa Rosa, CA on February 2, 1918, passed away in Redding, CA on March 26, 2014.
A Memorial service will be held July 30, 2014 at 1 p.m. graveside at the Adin Cemetery.

George Ohm
George Ohm will be remembered as a gentle person who never treated anyone badly or in a mean way. His presence is already missed among all who knew him, since his unexpected passing at the age of 74, on April 3, 2014 in Redding, CA, following treatment for congestive heart failure. He was recuperating at a rehabilitation facility there.
George was the youngest of three children born to Peter and Elfriede Ohm of Canby, CA on February 2, 1940 in Alturas, CA.
Graveside services were held April 10 at Alturas Cemetery. A Potluck time of fellowship followed at Faith Baptist Church in Alturas.

Junior W. Elzea
Junior William Elzea, 81, of Adin, CA passed away April 28, 2014. Services will be held Friday, May 2 at 11 a.m. at the Adin Community Church with burial to follow at the Adin Cemetery. A fellowship potluck will immediately follow back at the Adin Community Church. Mr. Elzea was born in Wolf Point, Montana on February 25, 1933.

Phyllis Grivel
A celebration of life service for Alturas native Phyllis Grivel will be held Saturday, May 10 in Janesville at 2 p.m. at her son's residence at 465-740 Cook Road. Potluck will follow. Please direct any questions to Robert at 530-310-4018. Mrs. Grivel passed away March 18, 2014 in Susanville. She was born to Loran and Annie Ballard on May 1, 1930.

Joseph Maddock
Joseph Eugene Maddock of Martinez, CA passed away of Leukemia at UCSF Hospital, San Francisco, CA on April 17, 2014. Born in Alturas, CA on April 2, 1962, he graduated from Modoc High, Alturas in 1980.
A memorial service in Martinez is pending. Memorial donations may be directed to Cancer Society, Animal Shelter or charity of choice.

Russell E. Maddock
Russell "Russ" Edward Maddock of Woodland, CA passed away at Woodland Memorial, Woodland, CA of kidney cancer on September 24, 2013. Born in Alturas, CA April 5, 1961, he graduated from Modoc High in 1979. A memorial service was held in October 2013 in Woodland, CA. His father Robert Maddock, brother Barry Maddock and sister Kathryn Flory, preceded him in death.
Memorial donations may be directed to the Cancer Society, Animal Shelter or charity of choice.

Constance Spencer
Constance "Connie" Spencer, a resident of Modoc County for 30 years, passed away April 24, 2014 at Warnerview Skilled Nursing Center in Alturas, CA. A graveside service was held April 30 at 10 a.m. at the Alturas Cemetery.
Mrs. Spencer was born May 14, 1916 in San Jose, CA. She was nearing her 98th birthday.

Kenneth W. Neal
Services for Kenneth Wayne Neal, a Likely, CA resident since 1982, will be held Saturday, May 3 at the Likely Fire Hall, Likely at 2 p.m., with potluck to follow.
Mr. Neal passed away April 11, 2014, of natural causes in Redding, CA at Shasta Regional Medical Center. He is survived by his mother Joy Neal of Likely; brother Gary Neal of Likely; sisters Sherrie Hampton of Likely and Kelly Voth of Alturas, CA; nieces Julie Williams of Alturas, Brandy McElhaney of Susanville, Danielle Wilson of Alturas, Stephanie Elsea of Alturas; nephews Dustin Conner of Magalia, CA and Kyle Voth of Magalia, CA.

Sports

Braves drop pair to Etna; second game went extra innings

Modoc’s baseball team dropped a double-header to Etna April 29, 7-1 and 8-7 and the second game went 10 innings. The Braves are at Trinity Friday.
The Braves led 2-1 in the first inning of the second game, and led 6-2 in the fourth. Etna cut the lead to 6-5 in the bottom of the fourth, and tied it in the sixth. Each team added a run in the eighth. Neither team scored in the ninth and Etna scored the winning run in the 10th.
“This was an exciting game that you love to be a part of, but the kind that really hurts a lot when you lose,” said coach Tim MacDonnell. “We hit the ball well and made some great plays defensively, but just couldn’t close it out. Etna’s a good ball club I have a ton of respect for, but we let them slip away. It really hurt us in the league picture.”
MacDonnell said Modoc needs to win the last two games at Trinity and at home against Weed.
Jarret Royce started the second game for Modoc, going seven innings, allowing six runs on 12 hits, struck out eight and walked two. David Buckley got the loss, pitching the final three innings. He allowed two runs on four hits, fanned one and walked one.
Tyler Ewing and Daniel Beebout were each 3-5 at the plate and Buckley was 2-4.
The Braves lost the opening game with Etna scoring two in the fourth and five in the sixth. Modoc scored its only run in the fifth.
Alex Valencia got the loss, going six innings, allowing seven runs on 11 hits, fanned six and walked two.
Valencia was 3-3 at the plate with a double and Beebout was 2-3.

Girls split with Mt. Shasta

Modoc’s softball team lost the opening game to the Mt. Shasta Bears 8-3 last weekend, but won the nightcap 6-5. The Braves are at Trinity May 2.
Morgan Bagwell got the loss in the first game, while Mt. Shasta’s pitcher limited Modoc to just two hits. Bagwell went all seven, and had a 2-0 lead going into the sixth inning where the Bears tied it and then scored six runs in the bottom of the seventh.
Bagwell allowed eight runs, two earned, on seven hits, walked six and fanned seven. Lynnzi Malcolm and Pricila Madrigal picked up the two hits for Modoc.
Modoc was knotted at 2-2 in the second game. Before taking a 5-2 lead in the fifth. They added one run in the seventh. The Bears scored one in the sixth and two in the seventh but the Braves held them off.
Melissa Knoch got the win, going seven innings, allowing five funs on nine hits, walks one and struck out six.
Malcolm led the offense with a 4-4 day, while Macie Larranaga was 3-4, Madrigal 2-4 and Kelly Schmidt 1-3.
Modoc had no trouble at Etna Tuesday, winning both games of the double header 12-6 and 15-9.
The Braves spotted Etna a 4-0 lead in one game, but tied it in the second at 4-4 and went ahead 8-4 in the third. Etna cut the lead to 8-6 in the fourth, but Modoc added three in the sixth and one in the seventh.
Morgan Bagwell got the win, going seven innings, allowing six runs on nine hits, fanned eight and walked two.
Beth Derner was 3-3 at the plate and Kelly Schmidt was 3-4. Bagwell, Larranaga, Malcolm, Valerie Froeming, Madrigal and Knoch each had a hit.
Modoc popped out to a 5-0 lead in the second inning of the next game, added two in the fourth, two in the fifth, five in the sixth and one in the seventh. Etna scored two in the third, four in the fourth and three in the sixth.
Knoch got the win, pitching seven innings, allowing nine runs on 11 hits, struck out five and walked two.
Madrigal led the offense with a 3-4 game, while Malcolm was 3-5, and Derner, Kristen Reed, Larranaga, Froeming, Schmidt and Knoch each had a hit.

Golf team heads to D-III match

The MHS Golf Team will be advancing to the 2014 North Section CIF Division III Championships on May 6 for the 15th consecutive year by shooting a qualifying score of 478 at the last league match of the season at Arrowhead last Thursday. 
“The wind was brutal, but our players stayed focused and took second overall at the match, losing only to Trinity high school by seven strokes,” said coach Harold Montague. “Alan Weber, Ole Kyllo and Cameron Johnston had strong front nines that created some breathing room for our target score.  But it was Cameron Brush who was the difference in this match. We’ve been competitive with our one through four players all season, but his 108, a season best for Cam, was the fifth score we’ve been working towards all season. Prior to this match we were posting scores of 128-144 in that slot.”   
Weber played well and made up a lot of ground on the back nine to end up catching the individual league leader for individual MVP honors.  Both he and Greg Aikins of Trinity tied for the League MVP award. Johnston earned All-League recognition and Ole Kyllo earned Honorable Mention.

Spring sports

The spring sports season is underway.
Modoc High School’s Baseball team is at Trinity May 2 and hosts Weed May 9, 2 p.m.
Modoc’s softball team is at Trinity May 2 and hosts Weed May 9, 2 p.m.
Modoc’s track team is at the Yreka Lions Invite May 2.
The Modoc golf team is at the Division III Championships May 5-6 in Redding at Gold Hill.

May 8, 2014

News

County, FS moving forward on radar site

The effort by Modoc County to utilize the Over-the-Horizon Backscatter Radar site in a productive manner is moving forward, according to Resource Analyst Sean Curtis.
The County has requested a special use permit for the site, which is a few miles east of the Perez Overpass on State Route 139. The U.S. Air Force radar site was never really put into play and was dismantled, but the site remains.
A mid-April letter from the Modoc National Forest formally notified the County that application for a site survey and testing of the Over-the-Horizon Backscatter Radar Site (OTHB) has been accepted and processing toward a special use permit has begun. The letter states: To facilitate the required analysis, the following actions have been taken:
•Current permit holder, U.S. Air Force (USAF), was contacted by March 7, 2014, letter for any concerns. USAF indicated no concerns because County activities will not conflict with on-going USAF activities at the OTHB.
•The Klamath Tribes and the Pit River Tribe were formally notified by letter March 24, 2014, of the County proposal. The Modoc National Forest has requested consultation in the manner in which the Tribes wished to proceed.
•The County project has been entered into the national Planning, Appeals and Litigation System as a public notice of the Forest proposal to issue a five-year permit to the County.

Election rhetoric heating up for June 3 primary

Rhetoric is heating up in the two contested County races, one for Sheriff and the other for Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of voters. Candidate’s nights have fueled some serious differences in the candidates.
County Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters incumbent Darcy Locken is completing her first term and is having to answer for several major mistakes made by her office over the past three-plus years.
Modoc County Clerk of the Board Stephanie Wellemeyer is vowing to correct the past problems and bring a more functional operation and attitude to the Auditor’s department.
First term Sheriff Mike Poindexter is trying to fend off a challenge from Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes. Poindexter is championing his membership in the Constitutional Sheriff’s Association, a fringe right wing element, and Barnes is vowing to enforce the law and the actual Constitution. Barnes will not join the Constitutional Sheriff’s Association because he says it does not actually adhere to the Constitution or law.
Running unopposed in June are: Modoc County Schools Superintendent Gary Jones; Assessor Cheri Budmark; District Attorney Jordan Funk; and Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch.

Firewood permits now available

Modoc National Forest officials announce fuelwood permits are available for purchase; with designated areas on National Forest lands open for cutting.  Fuelwood permits may be purchased at the Modoc Forest Headquarters and Ranger District offices.
There is a minimum purchase of four cords for $5.00 per cord. The purchase is non-refundable. Please read the firewood permit carefully and completely.
There may be times when conditions prevent woodcutting in certain areas across the forest. The permit holder is responsible to obey all regulations and rules printed on the permit. The removal of fuelwood is permitted only from National Forest lands.
For more information, please call 530-233-5811.

5 fires sparked in Howard’s Gulch

Five fires were sparked in Howard’s Gulch, just west of Canby on May 1 at 3:02 p.m.
Initial attack fire personnel from the Forest Service, Cal Fire, Cal-Pines and Canby Volunteers responded; while fire managers sized up the situation in case the fires were not easily contained. 
The fires were 90 percent contained at 8:30 p.m., with the combined fires totaling 45 acres.  The cause of the fires is still under investigation.
Indications from the National Interagency Coordination Center/Predictive Services points to an extremely busy fire season, as the drought continues.  For more information on the seasonal outlook, visit

Obituaries—

Arthada Higgs
Arthada Maloa St. John Higgs was born on June 8, 1933 in Alturas, CA to Lilly Patrick and Willis Wesley St. John. She passed away in Reno, NV on April 19, 2014.
Her services were held on Friday, April 25, 2014 at 11 a.m. at Christian Life Assembly Church in Alturas.
Memorial donations may be directed to The Alyssa Araiza “Wings of Angels” Organization, 6907 Weeks Rd., Redding, CA 96002, an organization dedicated to children with cancer and serious illness. Arthada was a volunteer for “Wings of Angels” and was also a Wish Grantor for Make A Wish of Northeastern California.

Ila Roethler
Ila Jane (Potts-Charrier) Roethler entered into eternal peace on Thursday, May 1, 2014 at the Lake District Hospital in Lakeview, Oregon at the age of 78. Ila was born in Yakima, Washington on April 24, 1936 to the late Harlan and Margaret Williams.
A celebration of life was held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7 at her home in Alturas, California. At a later date her ashes will be laid to rest at Misty Fjords National Monument to be surrounded by the beautiful ocean waters and the peaceful beaches of Alaska.

Willam John Lowes
Longtime Alturas resident, William John Lowes (Bill), died in Bakersfield, California on March 13, 2014, five months short of his 100th birthday. Bill Lowes was born near Moorpark, California on August 12, 1914 to John Lowes and Ermal Laverne Duncomb.
The family would be grateful if you would share any memories of Bill Lowes on his memorial site, http://memorialwebsites.legacy.com/williamlowes/homepage.aspx.

Herbert J. Beck
Herbert Joseph Beck, born April 25, 1923 in Brooklyn, New York, passed away at his Rush Creek residence near Adin, CA on May 1, 2014. At his request there will be no services. He was preceded in death by a daughter and his wife Margaret Mae (Swenson) Beck on November 29, 2013. He is survived by his daughter Lili Hudson of Adin.

Sports

Girls take tight games against Trinity

Modoc’s softball team won a pair of squeakers against Trinity last Friday 4-1 and 2-1. Modoc hosts Weed Friday, 2 p.m. Modoc is sitting pretty at 9-1 in the Shasta Cascade League and 22-5 overall.
Morgan Bagwell got the win in the first game. She tossed all seven innings, allowing one run on three hits, walked three and struck out six.
Trinity scored once in the first inning, then Modoc took a 3-1 lead in the third and added one in the seventh.
Lynnzi Malcolm, Valerie Froeming, Pricila Madrigal, Melissa Knoch and Beth Derner each had a hit in the game.
The second game was scoreless through five innings and Modoc scored two in the sixth. Trinity added one.
Knoch was the winner, pitching seven innings, allowing one run on two hits, walked three and fanned six.
Malcolm, Madrigal and Bagwell were each 2-4 batting, while Froeming, Knoch, Kirsten Jones and Macie Larranaga each had one hit.

Baseball team splits with Wolves

Modoc’s baseball team split a double-bill Friday in Weaverville and will host Weed, May 9, 2 p.m. The Braves are now 5-5 in Shasta Cascade League play and 10-13 overall.
The first game in Trinity went extra innings with the Wolves pulling it out with one run in the ninth. The Braves led 6-0 in the fourth, but Trinity scored two in the seventh to send it into extra innings. Neither team scored in the eighth and Trinity scored the winning run in the ninth.
Alex Valencia pitched four innings, allowing four runs on two hits, walked a pair and struck out five. Jarret Royce pitched three innings, allowing two runs and four hits, walked two and fanned six. Daniel Beebout tossed the last 1.1 innings, allowing the winning run on four hits, two walks and struck out two.
Valencia was 3-5 at the plate, with David Buckley and Tyler Ewing each 2-4. Ben Jones and Grady Ingraham each added a hit.
Buckley got the win in the second game, going five innings, allowing seven runs on eight hits, walked four and struck out seven.
Modoc led 6-4 in the first and 17-4 in the third. They added two in the fifth. Trinity added three in the fourth.
Beebout and Ewing went 3-4 on offense, with Valencia 2-2, Dillon Egle 2-3. Jones and Ingraham each added a hit.

Braves 5th in D-III golf

Modoc placed fifth at the Division III Championships held at Gold Hills Golf Course on Tuesday with a score of 610.  The course played very difficult for the participants and all scores were uncharacteristically high compared to season averages. 
Durham HS won the tournament with a 498 and will represent the Division III schools at next week’s Masters Championship at Bailey Creek Golf Course.  Trinity HS finished second (522), Chester third (559) and Pierce fourth (591). 
“Alan Weber advanced to next week’s championship as an individual by finishing tied for third with a score of 95,” said coach Harold Montague. “He had a couple of tough holes that accounted for his higher than normal score, but played well enough to make it to the next round. I have been very happy with what our very young team has accomplished this year. It will be exciting to see how well Alan performs at Masters on Tuesday.”
Modoc’s other golfers finished as follows: Cameron Johnston-112, Brandon Witherspoon-113, Ole Kyllo-126 and Brady Deaton-164. 

Spring sports

The spring sports season is underway.
Modoc High School’s Baseball team hosts Weed May 9, 2 p.m.
Modoc’s softball team hosts Weed May 9, 2 p.m.
Modoc’s track team is at the Dave Allen Twilight Invite at Mt. Shasta May 9.
Golf: Modoc’s Alan Weber plays in the Masters Championships May 13 in Chester.

May 15, 2014

News

County employees ask for more time in contract negotiations

On Tuesday, Modoc County Supervisors were greeted by a large contingent of Modoc County Employees, concerning the County’s “last, best and final offer” to the employee union.
The item on the agenda was not listed correctly, so it will come back at the May 27 meeting for action. But, County Counsel Margaret Long said the Board could take public comment from the employees in the audience and that comment would be official.
The County and Modoc County General Unit represented by UPEC Local 792 Union have been at impasse since September and the action on the agenda would have resolved the impasses and allowed the County to implement its offer.
While there were several issues on the table, some of the most controversial were a downgrade from a five percent longevity increase every three years to a two percent longevity increase every two years after reaching the top step, an increase in insurance costs and a change in the insurance waiver option for employees covered by other insurance.

MMC hosts public on new building

A public hearing is scheduled tonight as an update and current status of the Last Frontier Healthcare District’s plan to build a new hospital.
According to Modoc Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Kevin Kramer, the basic topic of discussion will be whether to employ a “design-build” or “design-bid-build” process for the new facility. Simply put, the “design build” would have the architect involved in the design and building, while the design-bid-build would have the architect draw up the plans and those would then be put out to bid to contractors.
Kramer said the LFHD Board sees advantages and disadvantages with both concepts and wants to hear from the public on the issue.
The meeting is set at Alturas City Hall, May 15, 5  p.m. to 7 p.m.

County stresses need for Wild Horse solutions

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors joined with several other agencies Tuesday to urge the U.S. Forest Service to move forward now on management of the Devil’s Garden Wild Horse territory.
A letter sent to the Chief of the Forest Service, Thomas Tidwell stresses the need for “Immediate, incremental and consistent population reduction methods that will benefit all users of the range, as well as the taxpayer, by avoiding large increases in population with ever larger impacts on range health and the agency’s budget.”
The letter contends that the current wild horse population on Devil’s Garden, expected to be 1,575 this year, is four times the management approved limit.
“Currently the wild horse population is so high that it is resulting in significant economic hardship and ecological harm to public, private and tribal lands,” the letter states.

CAL FIRE declares fire season

The Lassen-Modoc-Plumas Unit of CAL FIRE will officially declare the opening of wildfire season Monday, May 12.  This announcement is made each year to remind residents that as the weather warms, fire risks increase.
The Lassen-Modoc-Plumas Unit began staffing fire stations on April 28 and anticipates full staffing by June 16.
Though fire restrictions are not currently in effect, residents need to be safe with fire and pay attention to conditions as we move into the summer months.  Permits for outdoor burning have been required since May 1.  Those permits will be suspended on July 1 or sooner if conditions change.  The lack of precipitation may necessitate a statewide burn ban this year, so keep informed on burn restrictions by visiting the website at www.fire.ca.gov/lmu.

Modoc Forest campgrounds to open

Campgrounds across the Forest are scheduled to open for Memorial Day weekend, except for those in the Medicine Lake area. Those campgrounds are scheduled to open for the July 4th weekend.
Most of the campgrounds on the Warner Mountain, Devil’s Garden and Big Valley Ranger Districts are now accessible to vehicle traffic. Changes in weather conditions may cause some of the more remote campgrounds to be inaccessible.
Please check conditions prior to traveling to these sites and use caution, as the roads are still soft. Vehicles pulling trailers often have early season issues and may be difficult to maneuver or create resource damage in the more remote campgrounds.
Blue Lake, Mill Creek, Soup Springs and Howard’s Gulch have drinking water available. Willow Creek Campground and the day use area will not have potable water until after Memorial Day weekend.  Fees are $12 to $14 per night. Please check campground fee stations for current water advisories. 
For more information on recreation and current road conditions, please call any of the following Forest offices:
Supervisor’s Office, 530-233-5811
Warner Mountain Ranger District, 530-279-6116
Big Valley Ranger District, 530-299-3215
Doublehead Ranger District, 530-667-2246

Obituaries—

Lois A. Freeman
Lois Ann Freeman of Alturas passed away quietly May 10, 2014 at Modoc Medical Center with her family at her side. Her faith was strong and she is now with God and his angels.
Lois was born July 23, 1946 in Reno, NV to Robert W. Wickenden and Audrey L. Wickenden. Particular thanks to the staff of Modoc Medical Center for their wonderful care of Lois and her family.
Services will be private.

Gladys L. Van Slyke
Gladys Bargar was born in Dover, Arkansas on October 26, 1926 and reared there before her family moved to Chualar, California, south of Carmel. Gladys taught herself to play the piano and organ. She passed away at the age of 87 on March 26, 2014 after several years in long-term care. Her memorial service was held at Kerr Mortuary in Alturas on March 30, 2014.

Florance Laxague 
Former Cedarville resident Florance Laxague passed away on April 30, 2014 after a short illness at St. Mary’s Hospital in Reno, Nevada.  She was 93 years old. She was born Florance Martin in Aitkin township Minnesota on March 21, 1921.
At Florance’s request no funeral will be held.  A memorial service is planned for Surprise Valley at a date to be announced.

Frank Ewing
A memorial service for Frank Ewing will be held May 17 at 2 p.m. at the Rachel Dorris/Veterans’ Park, located behind the Modoc Museum and across from Sully’s RV Park in Alturas. Mr. Ewing went home to be with his Lord on April 7, 2014. His passing came at Renown Hospital, Reno, NV.

Sports

Braves softball team on top of SCL

The Modoc Braves softball team finished the regular season atop the Shasta Cascade League with an 11-1 record and a 24-5 overall season. They are now awaiting playoff seedings. They are the top ranked team in Division Five and are at home Tuesday in their opening payoff game.
They ended the league at 11-1, tied with Mt. Shasta 11-1, Trinity 8-4, Fall River 5-7, Etna 5-7, Burney 2-10 and Weed 0-12.
Modoc finished league by shellacking Weed last Friday 13-0 and 20-2.
The Braves finished their regular season at 26-5 with a non-league sweep of Lakeview Tuesday.
Modoc scored one in the first, one in the fourth and two in the sixth. Lakeview scored two in the third.
Knoch shut down the Honkers with a one hit shutout in the nightcap. She went five innings, walked just one and struck out five. Modoc scored three in the first, six in the second and four in the third inning.

Braves split with Weed in finale

Modoc baseball team split a doublebill with the Weed Cougars Friday at home winning the first game 3-0 and dropping the second 7-0. They complete the season with a 6-6 Shasta Cascade League record and were 11-14 overall.
The opening win gave them a berth in the North Section Playoffs and they are at Weed Friday, 4 p.m.

Weber shoots 89 in final match

The Modoc High Golf Season came to a close yesterday at Bailey Creek Golf Course at the NSCIF Masters Championship.  Alan Weber competed as an individual and finished his season with an 89 at this tournament. 
He struggled on the front nine with a 50, but rebounded very well on the back nine with a 39.  The qualifying individual score for NorCals was a 78. 

May 22, 2014

News

June 3 election campaigns gearing for final push

Campaigns for local state and federal offices are moving into the final week and candidates are making their final pitches for voters in the June 3 Primary Election.
Voters should have now received their mail, absentee or sample ballots and their polling place will be listed on the rear page of the ballot.
There are a pair of contested County races, one for Sheriff and the other for Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of voters. Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters incumbent Darcy Locken is facing a substantial challenge from Modoc County Clerk of the Board, Stephanie Wellemeyer. The major issues in that race are the past problems with the office and bringing a more functional operation and attitude to the Auditor’s department.
Sheriff Mike Poindexter is trying to survive a challenge from Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes. Poindexter is championing what he calls his first term successes and a membership in the Constitutional Sheriff’s Association. Barnes is vowing to enforce the law and the Constitution, and to bring better administrative knowledge to the office. He will not join the Constitutional Sheriff’s Association because he says it does not actually adhere to the Constitution or law.
Running unopposed in June are: Modoc County Schools Superintendent Gary Jones; Assessor Cheri Budmark; District Attorney Jordan Funk; and Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch.
Neither Supervisor Dave Allan in District One or Supervisor Geri Byrne in District Five, was challenged.
A major issue on the ballot is the Southern Cascades Community Services District, whose purpose will be to provide medical and Advanced Life Support ambulance services for Big Valley.
The district, if approved by two third of its voters, would include property in both Lassen and Modoc Counties and the majority of the property value is in Lassen.
Voters in the proposed district are asked to vote in favor of it and a flat rate tax of $65 per unique parcel per year. Individual unique parcel owners will be taxed for a maximum of two parcels, $130 per year within the CSD, regardless of how many separate parcels they own in either county.

April jobless rate falls to 11.1%

The April 2014 Modoc unemployment rate dropped to 11.1 percent for April 2014, according to the state Employment Development Department.
That’s down from March’s 13 percent and from last April’s 12.2 percent. The civilian labor force in April numbered 3,530 compared to 3,740 last April and 3,610 in March 2014. The number of unemployed workers dropped from 470 in March to 390 in April this year.
Government made up 1,150 total employees out of 3,130, or nearly 37 percent of the total jobs in Modoc. Local government jobs numbered 880.
Modoc’s 11.1 percent ranked it 40th of the state’s 58 counties for highest unemployment. Lassen County ranked 37th at 10.2 percent and Siskiyou 48th at 11.8 percent. The highest jobless rate is in Imperial County at 21.6 percent and the lowest is Marin at 3.9 percent.

Pair arrested in Radar site burglary

Two Oregon residents were arrested by Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Bill Engle May 18 in connection with an Over the Horizon Backscatter Radar site burglary and vandalism amounting to about $150,000 in damages and copper pipe theft.
According to reports, Engle was devoting extra time patrolling the radar site east of State Route 299’s Perez Overpass because it had been burglarized on two separate occasions. About 7 p.m. on May 18 Modoc County's Newell Resident Deputy, Bill Engel was devoting extra patrol. Massive amounts of copper pipe and tubing were stolen in the burglaries.
As Deputy Engel approached the radar facility, he observed a white GMC Van with Oregon plates backed up to the gate of one of the commercial buildings. He placed his patrol unit in front of the van preventing escape and called for backup.

CAL FIRE urging caution for Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day weekend is often considered to be the kick-off for summer vacations and outdoor activities, but CAL FIRE officials are asking the public to use caution as fire danger remains higher than normal. As the weekend approaches, temperatures are forecast to increase leading to a higher fire threat in California.
 “We are asking the public to be extra vigilant and take steps to prevent sparking a wildfire,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, CAL FIRE Director. “All it takes is a single spark to start a fire and with the dry conditions caused by drought, we are seeing fires burn with unseasonable intensity.”
Since the beginning of the year, wildfires have already caused major destruction.  Most recently Southern California endured wildfires fanned by Santa Ana winds, burning nearly 27,000 acres and destroying dozens of homes. California is in the midst of a severe drought, creating conditions that are ripe for devastating and extremely dangerous wildfires.  Everyone is encouraged to be vigilant and remember that one less spark is one less wildfire.

Obituaries –

Markle O. Carter
Former California Pines resident Markle “Mark” Owen Carter of Redding, passed away of natural causes on May 19, 2014 in Redding, CA. He was 83.
Mr. Carter was born in Medford, Oregon on January 3, 1931. He served as a Petty Officer 3rd Class with the U.S. Navy in Korea from 1948 until 1952. He and Jerre Mae were married on March 13, 1954 in Reno, NV. A truck driver for over 35 years, he also enjoyed hunting.
Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society.

Minerva Isabel Langille Kendall de Jung
April 18, 1923 - April 20, 2014.
Minerva Isabel Langille Kendall de Jung better known as “Bunny”
of Corte Madera, California, passed away just two days after her 91st birthday on Easter.
“Bunny” was born April 18, 1923 to Minerva Sarah Langille and George Perley Kendall in Eliot, Maine and grew up in Stoneham, Massachusetts, graduating from Stoneham High School and Katherine Gibbs in Boston.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Bunny’s honor June 7, 2014, at Limantour Beach, Marin County California.

Sports

Braves whip Weed in playoff opener

Modoc’s Braves, seeded seven, used the arm and bat of Alex Valencia to upset the number two seeded Weed Cougars 11-5 in the opening round of CIF the North Section Division playoffs Friday in Weed.
The Braves met Hamilton City, seeded three, Tuesday there and lost 10-1, eliminating them from the playoffs.
Weed took an early 3-0 lead in the fourth, but Modoc exploded for nine in the fifth, and added two in the seventh. Weed added one run in the fifth and sixth.
Against Weed, Valencia got the win on the mound, pitching all seven innings, allowing five runs on nine hits, two earned, walked a pair and fanned eight.
He also led the offense going 3-4 with a double and four runs batted in. David Buckley was 2-3 and Ben Jones, Grady Ingraham and Jarret Royce each had a hit.
Modoc and Hamilton were tied at 1-1 in the fourth, but Jamilton scored three in the fifth and six in the sixth.
Valencia went 5-2/3 innings, allowing nine runs on 10 hits, struck out four walked two. He got the loss.
Jones, Valencia, Buckley, Tyler Ewing and Ingraham each had a hit in the game.
“I am extremely proud of the young men,” said coach Tim MacDonnell. “They have come a long way. This was a big step to get into the playoffs and have some success. This should provide a lot of confidence for us in the next few years. We are only losing two seniors, and our top pitchers are both sophomores, so the future is bright.”

Girls drop opening round playoff game to Hamilton

Modoc’s softball team had everything going their way through six innings of the CIF North Section opening round game against Hamilton City Tuesday in Alturas.
Modoc entered the seventh inning leading 2-0 and in command, and then the wheels fell off. Their defense, which had played stellar ball to that point, committed several errors and allowed Hamilton City to score five runs and take a 5-2 lead. The Braves could not cut into that lead in the bottom of the seventh.
Hamilton’s pitcher, Jamie Engel, allowed six hits, but only walked one and struck out 11 Braves. Modoc starter Morgan Bagwell fanned nine and walked three while giving up only five hits.
Modoc came into the playoffs as the second seed and Hamilton was seeded seventh.

Modoc varsity girls win SCL track title Championship

The Modoc girls’ track team upset pre-meet favorites Weed and Etna last Wednesday in the Shasta Cascade League Championships. The final score was Modoc 78, Burney 73, Weed 72, Etna 67 and Fall River 37.
According to coach Bill Hall, Modoc left the meet thinking they had come in third with a point total of 72.5. Upon their arrival home a message had been left that Modoc was now in a tri-champion position due to some scoring errors. Hall then rescored the meet and found more errors. When all the dust was settled Modoc won and Hall was ecstatic with the results.
The SCL’s 2013 MVP, Stephanie Gouveia, once again dominated the distance events winning the 800 meters in 2:38.80, the 1600 meters in 6:06 and the 3200meters in 15:02.
Claudia Serrano won the discus with a toss of 92-5. She was second in the shot at 28-5. Emily Lowrey was second in the 800 meters at 2:48, in the 300-meter hurdles in 56.21 and second in the 400 meters with 1:08.59.
“The heat played a huge factor with track temperatures hitting over 100,” said Hall. “The big surprises came with Cidny Cohen grabbing a second in the 3200 meters, and Madelyn Binning placing third in the 1600 meters. Both girls ran races they had never run this year. Madison Toomey grabbed a third in the 300-meter hurdles and Binning a fourth in the shot. Megan Budmark hit a personal record of 23 feet in the shot to grab a fifth place. Kelsey Sphar came out late this season but solidified relay teams that gave Modoc some much need points. Sphar, Serrano, Binning, Toomey and Annie Price all ran well.”
Hall credits assistant Coach and son, Cameron Hall with being a little mad scientist when it came to putting kids into different events to score points. Head Coach Bill Hall said, "All coaches play this game, but it rarely works out."
Distance Coach Bill Gouveia saw great things from the girls as well as the boy’s distance crew.  Michael Bratton got second in the 3000 meters with a 12:29, Jonas Collier got fourth in the 800 meters. Troy Culp, in his first race of the 110 hurdles, grabbed a third.
The only league champ for the boys was junior Allen Clark who won the shot at 39-7, and in the discus he placed fourth.  Modoc finished in fourth place in the boys division. 

May 29, 2014

News

Tuesday is June 3 Primary Election day

Several important questions are in the ballot for the June 3 Primary Election in Modoc County and statewide.
Polls in Modoc will open June 3 at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. All mail or absentee ballots must be received by the elections office, 108 East Modoc Street, Alturas, or at any polling place on Election Day by 8 p.m. Voters are advised to mail ballots early. The polling places are listed at the end of this article.
Since Registrar of Voters Darcy Locken is on the ballot, Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker has agreed to assist with this election.
Two County races have drawn intense attention, one for Sheriff and the other for Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of voters. Auditor/Recorder/Clerk/Registrar of Voters incumbent Darcy Locken is trying to fend off a challenge from Modoc County Clerk of the Board, Stephanie Wellemeyer.
The race for Modoc County Sheriff is up for grabs between Sheriff Mike Poindexter and Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes. Running unopposed in June are: Modoc County Schools Superintendent Gary Jones; Assessor Cheri Budmark; District Attorney Jordan Funk; and Treasurer/Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch.
Neither Supervisor Dave Allan in District One or Supervisor Geri Byrne in District Five, was challenged.
The issue drawing voters to the polls in Big Valley is the Southern Cascades Community Services District, whose purpose will be to provide medical and Advanced Life Support ambulance services for the area.
The district, if approved by two third of its voters, would include property in both Lassen and Modoc Counties and the majority of the property value is in Lassen.
Voters in the proposed district are asked to vote in favor of it and a flat rate tax of $65 per unique parcel per year. Individual unique parcel owners will be taxed for a maximum of two parcels, $130 per year within the CSD, regardless of how many separate parcels they own in either county.
There is a race in the City of Alturas where two City Council seats are on the ballot and four candidates are running. Alturas Mayor John Dederick is seeking re-election. Former councilman John Schreiber, and citizens Mark Steffek and Bill Hall are running.

Parolee leads cops on high-speed chase

A wild and dangerous high-speed pursuit ended Sunday with the suspect ramming a Sheriff’ Department vehicle in the Modoc Jail parking lot.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Richard Lynn Elsea, 28, of Alturas arrested at the scene. In addition to the vehicle charges, Elsea was also on parole from the California Department of Corrections.
The CHP reports that Alturas and Modoc law enforcement units were dispatched to the Garden Apartments May 25 involving reports that a male was trying to start fights. There were also reports that Elsea was armed with a knife.
While law enforcement was responding, Elsea left the scene in a white Chevy Suburban and Modoc Sheriff’s Deputies saw the vehicle as it began traveling eastbound on County Road 56. They attempted to stop the Suburban and the pursuit began.
Elsea came back into Alturas still trying to avoid law enforcement, but drove into the Modoc Jail parking lot, where he accelerated and intentionally struck the rear of a parked SO patrol unit. According to the SO, the unit was not occupied but was totaled.

Fire Season declared on the Modoc National Forest

Modoc National Forest fire managers announce the 2014 Fire Season will officially begin Sunday, June 1 at midnight.  The “official” fire season announcement informs people that fire risks are increasing as the weather warms.
This means stations and the Modoc Interagency Communications Center will be staffed seven days a week with extra personnel and equipment to respond to fires. 
The decision to declare the start of the official fire season is based upon many factors including fuel moisture, drought conditions, precipitation and weather trends. Dave McMaster, Fire Management Officer, says, “We’re in our third year of drought; conditions throughout Modoc National Forest are likely to get worse, rather than better, as the drought, coupled with warming and drying trends continue.”

County approves last and final offer for employees

On Tuesday, following a public hearing with “extensive public comment” the Modoc County Board of Supervisors approved the terms of a last and final offer to employees, by a 3-2 vote.
Supervisors Jim Wills, Dave Allan and Geri Byrne voted to adopt the offer, while Supervisor Kathie Alves and Jon Pedersen voted no.
“The term of imposition in conformance with state law will be for one year,” said County Chief Administrative Officer Chester Roberston. “The decision includes imposition of the two major issues that went to fact finding. These issues remained at the forefront after impasse was declared last fall, followed by mediation in the fall of 2013, and later fact finding in the first portion of 2014.”
He said the core issues imposed changes the longevity increase from five percent every three years when above step F to a two percent every two years for general unit employees represented by UPEC. The imposition also includes reducing the insurance monthly payment from $350 to $250 per month for those employees not utilizing county health insurance, and the elimination of the $350 monthly payment for those who already have coverage through another employee within the county. 

Obituaries—

Jade Lorena Dashiell
Jade Lorena Dashiell, 41, from Santa Rosa passed away on May 21, 2014.  She was born August 3, 1972 in Lakeview, Oregon to Loren and Kate Bucher. Jade grew up in Alturas, California, moving to Redding, CA where she attended seventh grade and met two lifelong friends, Tracy and Casey.
Friends are invited to attend a celebration of her life following the memorial service at the Friedman Event Center, 4676 Mayette Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA.
Private family interment will be held at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Santa Rosa, CA.
In lieu of flowers a donation in Jade’s memory may be made to BVAPT,
Bennett Valley Alliance of Parents and Teachers, 2250 Mesquite Drive, Santa Rosa, CA 95405. Arrangements by Daniels Chapel of the Roses, (707) 525-3730.

Lois Nelle Osborne
Lois Nelle Osborne died at the home of her daughter, Candace in San Diego, California on Sunday, May 11, 2014 at the age of 88.
Lois was born to Ben and Ruby (Currey) Frakes in Lakeview on April 15, 1926. She grew up in Lakeview and graduated from Lakeview High School with the class of 1945.
A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church on Saturday, May 31, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. Committal will be in the Sunset Park Cemetery followed by a light luncheon served in the Church Fellowship Hall.
Desert Rose Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Mark C. King, II
Mark Crane King, II of Ventura, CA passed away at the age of 53 on March 12, 2014, due to cancer. Mark was born to Harold and Ruth King of Alturas on June 25, 1960 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
A memorial service was held on March 15, 2014, at Fountain of Life Apostolic Church, where Mark was baptized Sept. 17, 1999.
Donations may be directed to Harold and Ruth King, 110 Glen St., Alturas, CA 96101.
The King and Perez families extend their appreciation to all who have shown their love, kindness and support throughout this difficult time.

Richard L. Palmer
Richard Leroy Palmer, born in Chester, Nebraska on March 10, 1931, passed away in Alturas, CA on May 23, 2014. Mr. Palmer is survived by his wife Marilyn of Alturas; sons, daughters, nieces, nephews and grandchildren. He had made his home at California Pines for the past 10 years.
Services will be held graveside on Friday, May 30 at 10 a.m. at Alturas Cemetery.

James P. Preston
James Paul Preston, 40, passed at the Oroville, CA Hospital on February 10, 2014, after a lengthy illness. He was born in Cedarville, CA at the Surprise Valley Hospital on July 2, 1973. Services were held Saturday, May 17. Mr. Preston’s obituary will follow in a future issue.

Helen (Townsend) Maddock
Helen (Townsend) Maddock passed away on May 15, 2014 in Redding, CA, after a short illness. She was born on March 2, 1921 to Jane (Paddy) and Willie Townsend. Thanks to everyone in the community who took the time to help Helen when needed. Graveside service was held on May 20, 2014 at the Fort Bidwell Cemetery.

Norman Tyrrell
Norman Tyrrell of Adin, CA passed away on Friday, May 23, 2014 at the Burney Annex hospital in Burney, CA following a long battle with Alzheimers.
Services will be held at the Adin Cemetery on Saturday, June 7 at 11 a.m., with a luncheon to follow at the Adin Community Hall. Mr. Tyrrell’s obituary will follow next week.

Linda and Dorothy Clark
Graveside Service for Linda Marie Clark and Dorothy Virginia Clark will be held at the Alturas Cemetery on Friday, June 13, 10:30 a.m.  Lunch will be served following the service at the Alturas Church of Christ, N. Warner St. north of the Holiday Market, Alturas.
Linda passed away in Oct. 2013 at Mercy Hospital in Redding and Dorothy “Dot” Clark died in Warnerview, March, 2014. 
 Memorial donations may be directed to Warnerview Convalescent Hospital, 225 W. McDowell, Alturas, CA 96101.

Sports

Pit River Casino presents Smackdown Bull Riding

The Smackdown Bull Riding Series kicks off the 2014 season Saturday, May 31, and will make its first stop in Alturas, Calif., bringing 30 bull riders and 30 of the rankest bulls to town, courtesy of Manuel Souza Bucking Bulls.
The bull riding will be held at the Downtown Horseman’s Arena just off 8th Street and west of the Junior Livestock Grounds. Gates will open at 5 p.m. with the bull riding starting at 6 p.m.
Tickets for the event are $10 presale and are available at Antonio’s Cucina Italiana and The Niles Hotel. They are also available for $15 at the gate. Food and beverages will be sold at the event by Antonio’s Restaurant.
Also featured will be Mutton Busting and added to this year’s event will be the all new Motorcycle and Quad Barrel Racing.

Clark wins Division shot put

Modoc’s Allen Clark won the Division Four section championship in the shot put with a put of 39-1. Clark advances on to the entire section meet on Friday in the shot put. Sophomore Troy Culp took a third in the shot.
On the girl’s side, the team came in second in the division. Stephanie Gouveia took second in both the 3200 and 800. The 90-plus degree weather hampered times.
Cindy Cohen came in third in 3200. Freshman Madison Toomey grabbed a fourth in the 300 hurdles, setting a personal record of 58.4 seconds. Defending Division Champ Claudia Serrano could not defend her title, but came away with seconds in both the shot and discus. Jonas Collier added a personal best in the triple jump. Michael Bratton ran the 1600 at 5:05, which earned him a third.

Motocross racing starts this weekend

The Modoc Motorsports Association will open the 2014 motocross racing season at the new AMX Alturas track May 31 and June 1.
The track is located at the west end of Fourth Street, near the mill site and just west of the Airport.
Gates open at 6:30 a.m. and racing starts at 7 a.m. Gate fees are $5 for members, $10 for non-members; $5 for those age six to 12, under age five and over age 65 free.
A series is scheduled for the Alturas track including June 28-29; July 19-20; August 2-3; September 6-7 and October 11-12.

Bagwell, Froeming on All-star team

Modoc’s Morgan Bagwell and Valerie Froeming have been named to the North team participating in the Chico Breakfast Lions high school all-star softball game in Chico on Saturday, May 31.
The nine-inning game, the George Hibdon Classic, will be played at 11 a.m. in the Hooker Oak Recreation Area and will be followed by the Lions’ high school all-star baseball game at 3 p.m. in the same complex. The North prevailed in softball last year, 6-2.

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June 5, 2014

News

Wellemeyer, Poindexter win; City seats won by Dederick, Steffek

Sitting Modoc County Sheriff Mike Poindexter has beaten back a challenge by Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes by 1,831 to 983 votes, or 64.54 percent according to preliminary June 3 Primary Election results.
Stephanie Wellemeyer topped incumbent Modoc County Auditor-Clerk – Recorder Darcy Locken 2,061 to 721, 73.9 percent.
The current term for Locken expires in January.
Alturas voters re-elected John Dederick to City Council with 506 votes and elected Mark Steffek with 422 votes for the two open positions. Bill Hall received 266 votes and John Schreiber received 185.
The Big Valley Ambulance district was favored by 58.03 percent of the Modoc vote and the funding measure by 56.62 percent. In Lassen County, the district was favored by 60.61 percent of the vote, and the funding measure by 59.83 percent of the vote. The funding measure failed since it needed a two- thirds vote.
According to the elections office, just 53.10 percent of voters cast ballots on Tuesday. Out of 5,454 registered voters, 2,896 voted.
Running unopposed and receiving votes of confidence were: County Schools Superintendent Gary Jones 2,326 votes, 97.57 percent; District One Supervisor Dave Allan, 433 votes, 91.54 percent; District Five Supervisor Geri Byrne 358 votes, 97.81 percent; Assessor Cheri Budmark, 2,323 votes, 98.18 percent; District Attorney Jordan Funk, 2,132 votes 94.59 percent; Treasurer-Tax Collector Cheryl Knoch 2,265 votes, 96.96 percent; City Treasurer Heather MacDonnell 651 votes, 98.04 percent.

Bicyclist killed in Canby hit-and-run

A Canby man was killed in a hit-and-run accident May 29, about 7:45 a.m. at the intersection of County Roads 83 and 161 in Canby. The name of the victim has not been released.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the man age 62, was riding his bicycle eastbound at the intersection and an unidentified driver was also heading east behind the bicyclist. For unknown reasons, the driver failed to yield to the bicyclist and struck the bike from the rear. The bicyclist lost control and crashed in the eastbound lane. The unidentified driver fled the scene and there were no known witnesses to the accident.
The CHP is asking anyone who may have seen any relevant information to this accident, including descriptions of vehicles, which may have been traveling on the road at the time, to contact them at 530-233-2919.

CHP seeking vehicle of interest

The California Highway Patrol in Alturas is seeking information on a vehicle of interest in the fatal Canby hit and run accident. The CHP doesn’t know if the vehicle was involved, but it was observed in the area at the time of the accident. It’s described as a white 2000 Dodge pickup, lifted with 35-inch tires, black front and rear bumpers and black tool box. It also has stickers in the rear window. Please call the CHP at 233-2919 with any information.

Geothermal project gets a burst of energy

In September 1991, the Modoc Joint Unified School District drilled a productive geothermal well between Modoc Middle School and Alturas Elementary School, hoping to save about $70,000 per year (in 1991 oil prices) in heating costs. But the well was never used because of discharge concerns.
That may change with a new project gaining steam under a cooperative effort by the MJUSD, the City of Alturas, County of Modoc and Last Frontier Healthcare District. That group, possibly named the Modoc Geothermal Coalition, held a stakeholder’s meeting Monday and came away enthused about the project and its probability of success.
The MJUSD well was tested in 1992 with a flow rate of 400 gallons per minute at above 180 degrees. But it has remained pretty much sealed all this time. In addition to the well being drilled, the MJUSD also retrofitted MMS and AES for geothermal heating.
According to Alturas Mayor John Dederick, the new project will include heating the schools as well as the Alturas swimming pool. The pool was also considered a part of the project in 1992.

Obituaries—

Jewell “Judy” Ballard Estill
The services for Jewell "Judy" Ballard Estill will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2014 at Academy Cemetery in Clovis, CA on Mendocino Road at 10 a.m. There will be a reception to follow at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds at 748 Rodeo Drive, Clovis, CA. Judy was 82 years old and passed away on June 3, 2014 at Renown Hospital in Reno, NV. Judy is from Clovis, CA. For the past 10 years she has been a resident of Eagleville, CA and was previously a resident of Likely, CA. Obituary to follow. Donations can be made in her name to the Modoc County Cattlewomen or the Clovis Rodeo Foundation.

James P. Preston
James Paul Preston, was born in Cedarville, CA on July 2, 1973 to Leah Lowanne Winona Wyatt-Davis and Merritt Lucky Preston, an only child. Our Creator Jehovah God called James quietly home with family present at his side on February 10, 2014. He was 40 and passed at the Oroville, CA Hospital after a lengthy illness.
Services were held Saturday, May 17 at 2 p.m. at the Carson Colony Gymnasium.

Jane Nola Winn
Jane Nola Winn, a resident of Jamestown, CA for 20 years, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep on May 19, 2014 in Fraser Flat. She was 61 years old.
Jane was born on Aug. 31, 1952 in Weaverville, CA to Andy and Norine Winn.. A private family service will be held. Terzich and Wilson Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Norman Tyrrell
Norman Tyrrell of Adin, passed away on Friday, May 23, 2014 at the Burney Annex hospital in Burney, CA following a long battle with Alzheimers.
Services will be held at the Adin Cemetery on Saturday, June 7 at 11 a.m., with a luncheon to follow at the Adin Community Hall. Mr. Tyrrell’s obituary will be published in a future issue.

Donald J. Jacques
Donald J. Jacques passed away in Redding, CA on May 5, 2014. Mr. Jacques became a resident of Alturas, CA in 2012, after moving from the Houston area to be closer to his daughters. Born May 30, 1928 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, he was almost 86.
He was a resident at Warnerview Skilled Nursing for a year and a half.
Per his wishes, Don was flown back to his hometown near Houston, Texas to be laid to rest at the VA Houston National Cemetery.

Linda and Dorothy Clark
Graveside Service for Linda Marie Clark and Dorothy Virginia Clark will be held at the Alturas Cemetery on Friday, June 13, 10:30 a.m.  Lunch will be served following the service at the Alturas Church of Christ, N. Warner St. north of the Holiday Market, Alturas.
Linda passed away in Oct. 2013 at Mercy Hospital in Redding and Dorothy “Dot” Clark died in Warnerview, March, 2014
Memorial donations may be directed to Warnerview Convalescent Hospital, 225 W. McDowell, Alturas, CA 96101.

Sports

Modoc track season comes to close

KCee Boneck, right, of Surprise Valley, won the Alturas Smackdown Bull Riding event Saturday at the Junior Livestock Grounds in Alturas. More than 500 spectators enjoyed the show and it was greete with enthusiastic reviews. The event was presented by the Pit River Casino and promoted by Souza’s Bucking Bulls. Manual Souza, left, presented Boneck with the winner’s buckle. Photo by Christina Speir

Modoc track season comes to close

Modoc's track season ended last Friday as Juniors Allen Clark and Stephanie Gouveia each participated in the CIF North Section All-Division Section meet.
Winners of each event go on to the CIF State Track Meet. Gouveia qualified as an at large participant due to her time in the 800 and was seeded 10th. Clark came in seeded eighth in the shot put. Both events saw no changes in the seeding and both finished respectably 10th and eighth. 
Missed in last week’s report was the exceptional effort of sophomore runner Emily Lowrey. Lowry placed second in the 400 meters and third in the 800 meters. Lowrey also had qualified in the 300 hurdles for the Division Four championships but was held out to concentrate on the 800.
All three athletes return next year. This season saw Modoc Athletes improve and set over 75 personal records. The girls won their first league varsity title in over 10 years and placed second within the division. The boys placed higher this past season then in the previous 4 years.
Modoc returns 21 athletes to Coach Bill Hall's track squad for next year.

Big Valley hosts hoop camp

The Big Valley Cardinal basketball program is holding its first Youth Basketball Camp June 9-10-11 at the BVHS Gym, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day.
The camp is for youth ages kindergarten through sixth grade and the cost is $20 per participant. The camp will teach basic fundamentals on how to play basketball.
Campers can register by picking up a registration form Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Big Valley Elementary School or sign up on the first day of camp from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Make checks payable to Big Valley Athletics.
For more information, contact Coach Josh Razmus at 530-249-1402 or 530-294-4010.

Ash Creek Fish Derby June 14

The annual Pit River Rod and Gun Club is hosting its annual Junior Fish Derby June 14 at the Ash Creek Wildlife Area in Big Valley.
The Derby is open to all junior anglers. Registration will be the day of the Derby, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. Fishing starts at 8 a.m. and goes to 12 noon. The Derby is on Highway 299 one mile west of Adin at Basset Road. For more information, call 530-294-5824.

June 12, 2014

News

New MNF Supervisor tells BOS fire season hot

New Modoc National Forest Supervisor Amanda McAdams introduced herself to the Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday and stressed the upcoming fire season was looking extreme.
Currently the MNF has 10 engines staffed, nine fire leadership positions staffed five days per week, five lookouts on seven days per week, one Hot Shot crew, six fuels/suppression personnel on five days per week a water tender on seven days per week and more.
She told the Board the extreme drought conditions are continuing and the energy release component, ERC, is at record levels for this time of run. It’s running at levels normal for August.
ERC is a number related to the available energy (BTU) per unit area (square foot) within the flaming front at the head of a fire. Daily variations in ERC are due to changes in moisture content of the various fuels present, both live and dead. Since this number represents the potential "heat release" per unit area in the flaming zone, it can provide guidance to several important fire activities.
The burning index is running at high levels and with fuel dryness at very dry low/moderate risk of large fire in the absence of a high-risk event. High-risk events would be hot and dry wind and lightning.
McAdams said the forest could go into fire restrictions in the near future if weather remains hot and dry. She also said the forest has been sending resource and personnel to other off forest fires all winter, Modoc has had one fire of 45 acres on the forest.

Low turnout election for Modoc

Last Tuesday’s Primary Election had just 53.1 percent of the registered voters cast ballots, 2,896 out of 5,454, fairly low by historical standards.
In the local contested races, Sheriff Mike Poindexter won another term over challenger Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes 1,831 to 983 and challenger Stephanie Wellemeyer unseated County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk Darcy Locken 2,061 to 721.
In the Sheriff’s race the results by precinct were as follows with Poindexter listed first: Ft. Bidwell 31-13; Lake City 48-34; Cedarville 149-101; Eagleville 45-16; Dry Creek 75-29; Stateline 34-9; Davis Creek 36-12; North Fork 201-107; Alturas B 50-42; Alturas C 174-116; Alturas A 120-88; Alturas D 106-78; Parker Creek 71-35; South Fork 52-16; Hot Spring 161-70; Cal Pines 125-47; Canby 57-32; Adin 90-41; Lookout 104-31; and Day 24-15.
The precinct breakdown for the Auditor’s race with Wellemeyer listed first were as follows: Fort Bidwell 29-12; Lake City 60-18; Cedarville 207-43; Eagleville 44-15; Dry Creek 70-35; Stateline 33-9; Davis Creek 39-7; North Fork 231-79; Alturas B 83-11; Alturas C 237-55; Alturas A 182-34; Alturas D 157-27; Parker Creek 69-33; South Fork 46-22; Hot Spring 149-81; Cal Pines 115-47; Canby 42-45; Adin 84-44; Lookout 71-56; and Day 25-14.

CHP still seeks info on hit and run driver

The California Highway Patrol is still seeking information on a fatal hit-and-run accident that occurred May 29, between the hours of 7:30 to 7:50 a.m. at the intersection of CR83 and 161 in Canby.
William Aronson, 65, of Canby and a member of the I’SOT community, died from injuries when a vehicle struck him while he was riding his bicycle. The driver left the scene and Aronson was found in the road.
According to the I’SOT obituary, Aronson was on his way to work at the I’SOT group home as a child care worker when he was hit. He was airlifted to a Redding hospital, but died on May 30, never regaining consciousness.
The California Highway Patrol in Alturas is seeking information on a vehicle of interest in the accident. The CHP doesn’t know if the vehicle was involved, but it was observed in the area at the time of the accident. It’s described as a white 2000 Dodge pickup, lifted with 35-inch tires, black front and rear bumpers and black tool box. It also has stickers in the rear window. Please call the CHP at 233-2919 with any information.
The CHP is also asking anyone who may have any information about the type of vehicle, or vehicles, driving in that area at the estimated time of the accident to call 530-233-2919.

Fire Safe is key topic June 16

The Modoc Fire Safe Council will host a Wildfire Preparedness Community Meeting on June 16, at the Veterans Hall from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  Lunch will be provided.  The focus of the Community Meeting will be how to be better prepared in the event of a wildfire in the area or community. 
California is in critical drought conditions and wildfire has already ravaged some parts of the state.  It is only a matter of time before beautiful Modoc County sees the effects of wildfire here. 
“Are you prepared in case of evacuation in your community?” the Council asks. “Is your home considered survivable if wildfire heads your direction, do you know the steps to take to ensure that responders will protect your home?  This meeting will help you answer ‘yes’ to all of these questions and will give you the vital information needed to ensure the protection of your property and save lives.”
Presenters will be from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, BLM and the Modoc Fire Safe Council.  This event is important for everyone in the County.  
For more information and to RSVP, please call the Modoc Fire Safe Council at 530-233-5516.

Obituaries:

William Aronson
On May 30, 2014, William Charles Aronson, or Bill as he was known, passed away at 6:25 p.m. at Mercy Hospital in Redding, California. Bill was riding his bicycle on his way to work on May 29, at 7:45 a.m. when he was struck down by a hit-and-run driver at the intersection of County Roads 83 and 161 in Canby.  He sustained massive injuries and was flown to Redding, California.  He never regained consciousness. 
Bill was born to Gus and Evelyn Aronson on October 17, 1948 in Eugene, Oregon.
A memorial service will be held in Canby on Sunday, June 22, 2014, at 10:30 a.m.   A tree will be planted in his memory in the I’SOT Family Park.  “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God.”

Deloss “Mike” Jeppson
Deloss Michael (Mike) Jeppson, a resident of Chico, CA since 1985 and longtime Modoc resident prior, passed away in Phoenix, AZ while traveling on June 4, 2014. He was born October 29,1943.
Obituary to follow. Services will be held at a later date to be determined.

Cindy Velasco
Cindy Velasco of Alturas, passed away June 9, 2014 at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. Her services will be held June 21 at 11 a.m. at the Warren Weber Ranch. Mrs. Velasco was born December 15, 1956 in Quincy, CA. Her obituary will be published in a future issue.

Nichoel (Anderson) Priddy
Nichoel Sherrée Priddy passed away unexpectedly at her home in Brookings, Oregon on Saturday, June 7, 2014. A graduate of Modoc High School’s Class of 1991, she turned 40 this May. She leaves her husband James Priddy of Brookings, OR; her 16-year-old daughter Ciara Michelle Anderson of Brookings; her mother Michelle Anderson of Alturas, CA; brother David Anderson of Redding, CA; sister YaVette Goulden of Alturas, CA, numerous aunts, uncles and relatives.
Arrangements for memorial services are pending, with one for Alturas and one for Brookings. Memorial donations may be directed to Alcoholics Anonymous.

Linda & Dorothy Clark
Graveside Service for Linda Marie Clark and Dorothy Virginia Clark will be held at the Alturas Cemetery on Friday, June 13, 10:30 a.m.  Lunch will be served following the service at the Alturas Church of Christ, N. Warner St. north of the Holiday Market, Alturas. Judy Clark Baumgardner of Exeter, CA, survives.

Donna Alene Olson
Donna Alene Olson, a former California Pines resident for 20 years, passed away June 8, 2014, due to complications from Pneumonia, in Filer, Idaho where she had been residing. Born Donna Hansen on July 7, 1930 in Fresno, CA, she married Walter L. Olson in San Luis Obispo, CA on May 30, 1954.
Visitation will be held at Kerr Mortuary, 400 West Second St., Alturas on June 16, 2014 between 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. A graveside service will be at 9 a.m. June 17 at Alturas Cemetery, Alturas, CA.

Sports

Fishing pond for the Sportsman’s Expo

Kaylee Kinney, age 2, is practicing up for the Modoc Fish, Game and Recreation Commission’s fish pond that will be stocked with trout at the Sportsman’s Outdoor Expo on June 21, 22. Kaylee is the daughter of Erick Kinney and Julie Bordwell.
Look for the very special place in the shade under the trees at the Alturas Casino. It will be next to the Back Country Horsemen’s camp and exhibit at the Expo. The Modoc Fish, Game and Recreation Commission will have set up a 2,500 gallon tank stocked with 300 catchable (8-10 inch) trout, and armed with fishing poles and bait just waiting for any eager child to experience the thrill of catching a fish.
“We want to promote our youth’s interest in fishing and other outdoor activities by providing any child age 14 and under with the opportunity to fish with reasonable certainty of catching a fish,” explains Doc Martin, fish pond project chairman.
Members of the commission will be supervising and helping the children. As an added bonus, Valerie Lantz of the Back Country Horsemen will be cooking any of the cleaned trout if so desired. The commission will provide bags and ice if the youngster wants to take the fish home.
The trout will be obtained from the Crystal Lake Fish Hatchery through the efforts of Paul Devine of the State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Super Bull coming June 28

If you haven’t already purchased your tickets for the 18th Annual Super Bull Rodeo taking place in the Grandstand Arena at the Modoc District Fairgrounds in Cedarville on Saturday, June 28, don’t procrastinate any longer! You’ll save $3 per ticket by planning ahead.
Presale tickets are $12 at Page’s Market, Woody’s Saloon and Corner Store in Cedarville and Alturas Auto Parts (NAPA) and Seab’s True Value in Alturas. Tickets for those out of the area may also be ordered by calling Diana Milton at (530) 279-6383.
Tickets will be $15 the night of the rodeo. Children under seven years old enter for free.
The gates open at 5 p.m. and the fun starts right at 6 p.m. with some Mutton Bustin’ featuring 15 “pint-sized” riders.

 Poker Fun Run gains ground

“Poker Fun Runs” are gaining in popularity all over the country. However in most cases, the participants actually have to run a course to win the prize. But in Modoc County’s second ever “ATV/UTV Poker Fun Run” set for June 28, participants will navigate the 25-mile course through some of the area’s most spectacular scenery on all-terrain vehicles or on dirt bikes.
Now that’s some rugged, exuberant frontier-style fun for the whole family!
Get signed up early by pre-registering at ModocFair.com. Along with the required waiver and general information, you’ll find helpful suggestions to make this a great day all around.
This year’s Poker Fun Run begins with registration at the Modoc District Fairgrounds in Cedarville from 10 a.m. to noon. 
The cost of registration includes the chance to build one “hand” of poker for only $5. But don’t stop there! Work on five hands for only $20 (you can even buy up to two extra “cards” for $5 each).

June 19, 2014

News

City opts in to geothermal coalition

The Alturas City Council voted unanimously Tuesday afternoon to join the Modoc Geothermal Development Coalition and establish that group with the Modoc Joint Unified School District, Modoc County and the Last Frontier Healthcare District.
The purpose of the coalition is to seek a California Energy Commission grant for geothermal projects in Modoc County and the City. Mayor John Dederick said the grant application is in process and must be completed by mid July. The other governmental entities are working on a formal Memorandum of Understanding with approval from their governing boards.
One of the initial projects Dederick feels has a good chance of being funded is getting the MJUSD AL2 geothermal well operating between Modoc Middle School and Alturas Elementary School. That well could heat both schools and the Alturas Swimming pool. In addition, its water could be used in the sewer plant and as part of a city wetlands project.

City adopts same restrictions on e-cigarettes

The Alturas City Council on Tuesday took action that lumps e-cigarettes under the same restrictions as regular tobacco smoking in public places. The action was at the request of Modoc County Tobacco Education coordinator Bill Hall.
After some discussion, the council voted a 4-1 to approve the action. Mayor John Dederick, Mayor Protem Bobby Ray, councilmen Jim Irvin and Mark Steffek voted in favor, while councilwoman Cheryl Nelson voted against, saying she needed more information.
They essentially adopted a binding resolution that moves e-cigarettes, e-hookah, vaporizers, and any other electronic delivery devices known as EDD’s into the same category as cigarettes, cigars and any other tobacco product that was listed in the city’s definition of cigarettes.
According to Hall, e-cigarettes have not been found to be a cessation aid regardless of big tobacco’s insistence as such. The secondary issue with e-cigarettes, following the obvious addiction to nicotine is the use of the devices to vaporize other drugs such as the now trending “hash oil” or “honey oil.” This oil is made from extraction of marijuana. Normal THC levels in marijuana are around two to three percent and vaporizing the oil can raise that THC level to upwards of 50 percent.

State minimum wage is $9.00 in July

Although there are some exceptions, almost all employees in California must be paid the minimum wage as required by state law. Effective July 1, 2014, the minimum wage in California is $9.00 per hour.
Effective January 1, 2016, the minimum wage in California is $10.00 per hour. There are some employees who are exempt from the minimum wage law, such as outside salespersons, individuals who are the parent, spouse, or child of the employer, and apprentices regularly indentured under the State Division of Apprenticeship Standards.
There is an exception for learners, regardless of age, who may be paid not less than 85 pecent of the minimum wage rounded to the nearest nickel during their first 160 hours of employment in occupations in which they have no previous similar or related experience.

Farmers market in the park opens for summer

The first day of summer brings the Surprise Valley Saturday Market to Cedarville Park. The market is opening for a second season beginning Saturday Jun 21. The market will be open the first and third Saturdays of the month through October 18, from 9 a.m. to noon.
People will find fresh, local produce, cottage foods, arts and crafts, live music, and a kid zone at every market. “It is a great place to support local producers and find fresh, healthy foods,” said Leah Larsen, co-manager of SVSM. “It also provides a gathering place where friends and neighbors can visit and kids can play.”
Surprise Valley Saturday Market became a Certified Farmers Market this year, making it the first and only Certified Farmers Market in Modoc County. This certification ensures consumers they are buying food directly from the people who produced it.
This certification has also allowed SVSM to become authorized to accept WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Benefits. This will be the first time these benefits have been distributed in Modoc County.

Obituaries—

Rodney C. Weed
Rodney Curtis Weed passed away in the comfort of his home in Likely, CA on June 12, 2014.
Rod was born August 24, 1950 in Tonasket, Washington.
A potluck yard party celebrating his life will be held in Likely at the Weed residence on Sunday, July 6 at 2:00 p.m. All are welcome and encouraged to share a favorite memory. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriner’s Children's Hospital or the Phillip Weed Memorial Scholarship Fund at Plumas Bank, 510 North Main St., Alturas, CA 96101.

Cindy Lee Burgoyne Velasco
In 2004 Cindy was diagnosed with GIST- a form of abdominal cancer, at which time they gave her a grim and short life expectancy.  She did not let the illness lead her life and bravely fought it for 10 years with a warrior’s heart and drive that most Olympians only dream about.  Her body finally called the battle a “Draw” on Monday, June 9, 2014, at Modoc Medical Center, surrounded by her family. 
Cindy, was born in Quincy, California on December 15, 1956, was raised and lived her entire life in Alturas
Services will be held on June 21, 2014 at the Warren Weber Ranch on County Road 56 at 11 am. Donations can be made to Modoc Medical’s “Family Room.”

Norman Carl Tyrrell
Norman Carl Tyrrell, a resident of Adin, CA passed away May 23, 2014 in Burney Care Center, Burney, CA, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Norman was born to Ted W. Tyrrell and Edna Cauldwell Tyrrell in Downey, CA in 1935.
Services were held at the Adin Cemetery on Saturday, June 7 at 11 a.m. A luncheon followed at the Adin Community Hall.

Robert E. Perry
Robert (Bob) Edward Perry, 83, passed away June 5, 2014, at Renown Medical Center in Reno, NV. He was born October 8, 1930, in Cedarville, CA, to Kesner and Charlotte Perry.
A celebration of life will be held June 21 at the Cedarville Fairgrounds at 1 p.m. Meat will be provided. Please bring a side dish or desert.

Michael Phillip O’Neal
U.S. Army veteran Michael Phillip O’Neal of Alturas, CA passed away at his home May 26, 2014 at the age of 57. He was born in Sun Valley, CA, Los Angeles County on May 16, 1957.
The Patriot Guard Riders will escort Mr. O’Neal’s cremains to the Northern California Veterans Cemetery in Igo, where he will be buried with full military honors.

Marion Mackey
A Celebration of Life for Marion Gordon Mackey, a longtime rancher, homemaker and artist, will be held June 21 at 5 p.m. at the Alturas Garden Club’s historic Whistle Stop Depot, corner of East and Fourth Streets, Alturas. All family and friends welcome. This will be a potluck of finger foods.
Mrs. Mackey passed away April 12, 2014 in Alturas, CA. She was a past president of the Alturas Garden Club.

Richard “Dick” Chandler
Richard George Chandler, born in Riverside, CA September 19, 1939, passed away at the age of 74 on March 27, 2014 in Alturas, CAPer his request, his ashes will be scattered as he designated. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Rebecca Stafford Ruiz
Rebecca Lynne Ruiz passed away unexpectedly at her Alturas, CA home on May 27, 2014 shortly after her 55th Birthday.
Rebecca Stafford was born May 17, 1959 Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

William “Bill” Aronson
A memorial service for William Charles Aronson, or Bill as he was known, will be held in Canby on Sunday, June 22, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. A tree will be planted in his memory in the I’SOT Family Park.

Nichoel (Anderson) Priddy
Nichoel Sherrée Priddy passed away unexpectedly at her home in Brookings, Oregon on Saturday, June 7, 2014. A graduate of Modoc High School’s Class of 1991, she turned 40 this May. Arrangements for memorial services are pending, with one for Alturas and one for Brookings. Memorial donations may be directed to Alcoholics Anonymous.

Sports

Outdoor Sportsman’s Expo offers fun this weekend

Word is spreading about a group called Modoc Outdoor Recreation and Tourism, (MORT). The group is sponsoring the Modoc Sportsman’s and Outdoor Expo this weekend at the Desert Rose Casino event center.
In 2010, many different agencies, groups, and individuals were working individually to promote Modoc County
Through this special partnership and community collaboration, it is the group’s expectation to develop a more efficient way for agencies, organizations and the public to communicate and work together.
 “When we attract tourism, the restaurants, motels, and stores all benefit,” said Soriano.
Established in November 2010, the Modoc Outdoor Recreation & Tourism Interagency Group is comprised of a unique group of dynamic and diverse individuals from various federal, state, local, tribal, public and private agencies and organizations.
 “It’s not just me, but everyone joining together and becoming MORT-als, Modoc Outdoor Recreation and Tourism – America’s Land Stewards-Exploring, Open Spaces and Historic Traces! Come to the Expo on Sat. and Sunday to see what Modoc has to offer,” adds Lorisa Soriano.

Rotary Fish Derby winners listed

There were plenty of fish caught at the Alturas Rotary Fish Derby held June 7 at Pine Creek Reservoir. The Derby was open to kids ages 0-12 and they lined the banks of the local fishing spot.
Luis Salazar caught the first fish; largest fish caught by a boy and caught his limit of five fish first. The day was also Luis’s ninth birthday, what a way to celebrate! For the sake of fairness, unfortunately he was only able to receive one prize, which he seemed to understand. Luis’s brothers Irvin and Axel also caught their limit, very good day for the Salazar family.
Wyatt Wheeler won the prize for the largest fish for the boys, weighing in at two pounds, one ounce and also caught his limit.
McKenzie Lord, age seven, caught the first fish for a girl and Arihanna Nesbitt was the first girl to catch her limit on the girls side.
Aaliyah Sevilla, age “almost five,” caught a whopping three-pound two-ounce fish, making it the largest fish caught at the derby.

June 26, 2014

News

County takes action on geothermal projects

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors moved directly on the geothermal projects in Surprise Valley and in Alturas at its Tuesday meeting.
The Board first approved submittal of a proposed geothermal exploration and development project in Surprise Valley through the California Energy Commission grant program.
That project involves areas around the Surprise Valley Hot Springs, owned by Curt Rose. The plan is to study and hopefully come up with electrical generation from the site. Experts from the University of California at Davis, NASA, and others will be heavily involved in the project as well as Warner Mountain Energy Corporation.
Rose told the Board Tuesday that these were "exciting times" for Modoc in the geothermal arena. He explained that only six of the state's 58 counties are currently producing electricity from geothermal sources, and Modoc has a very good chance of becoming number seven.
Rose has been working with Electratherm, of Reno, for years and that company produces a binary geothermal power plant that is efficient and has a small "footprint."
Secondly, the Board agreed to join the Modoc Geothermal Development Coalition and establish that group with the Modoc Joint Unified School District, the City of Alturas and the Last Frontier Healthcare District. All four of the entities have signed on to the coalition, with the MJUSD voting in favor Tuesday night.

SV Hospital financials look bleak

Figures released on June 20 by the Surprise Valley Hospital administration show that the hospital is $1,343,000 in debt, losing $200,000 a month and according to hospital administrator, Wanda Grove, a further estimated $900,000 will be owed the state on July 1.
Grove said the hospital had to borrow money to make payroll two weeks ago and she plans on going to Plumas Bank to ask for an additional $90,000 on Thursday (today) to cover Friday's payroll.
"I believe if we cannot make payroll the employees will not be allowed to work and we'll have to find placements for our residents. Warnerview in Alturas is full so we would have to look elsewhere," said SVH board member Bunne Hartmann.
The board feels optimistic about the hospital's future, if they can get through this current crisis.
To help keep the public informed the board has directed Bill Bostic, administrative assistant, to post audio recordings of the recent board meetings on the hospital website at www.svhospital.org . Click on Board of Directors, then audio recordings of meetings.

County may intervene in Wild Horse suit

While no decision was made Tuesday, the Modoc County Board of Supervisors may be considering intervening in the lawsuit against the Devil's Garden Wild Horse Territory plan.
Modoc Resource analyst Sean Curtis suggested the possible intervention during the meeting, and felt that suing the Forest Service would not be the wisest choice at this time. Modoc would be in support of the Forest Service and the wild horse management plan.
Modoc is already on record in support of the Devil's Garden wild horse management plan, and Curtis felt it would be good strategy as a first step to join again with other entities who signed a letter of support earlier. Some of those supporters include the State and local Cattlemen's Associations, local and state Farm Bureaus and the Public Lands Council.
The American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign has sued the Forest Service over the environmental documents in the plan.

Bryant Fire mopping up

The Bryant Fire near Bonanza, Oregon, which affected the Modoc area with smoke, is in the mop up stages according to the Oregon Department of Forestry and should be fully contained by today.
The fire has burned about 1,361 acres and the cause is under investigation. A total of 493 people fought the fire, which has an estimated suppression cost of $3.7 million.

County jobless rate drops

Modoc County's jobless rate fell to 9.1 percent in May, down from 11.1 percent in April, according to the state Employment Development Department. The state unemployment rate was 7.1 percent and the federal rate was 6.1 percent.
EDD reports a civilian labor force of 3,550 in May, up from 3,520 in April, but down from May 2013's level of 3,780. There were 320 people listed as unemployed in May, down from 390 in April and 410 last May.

Obituaries--

Jewel "Judy Murdock (Ballard) Estill
Jewell "Judy" Murdock (Ballard) Estill passed away June 3, 2014 peacefully in her sleep at age 82. Judy was born Sept 7, 1931 and grew up in Knightson, CA, where 4-H and horses were a big part of her life. Donations can be made in Jewell's memory to the Modoc County Cattlewomen's Memorial Scholarship Fund, P.O Box 711, Alturas, CA 96101 or the Clovis Rodeo Association Foundation.

Rurik Davis, Angel Penn
A Memorial Service for Rurik (TwoBears) Davis and Angel Moonstar Penn will be held at 5 p.m. in Cedarville at the Cedarville Rancheria Tribal Park. A potluck will follow. Date to be announced next week. Mr. Davis' and Ms. Penn's obituaries will follow in a future issue.

Rodney C. Weed
A potluck yard party celebrating the life of Rodney Curtis Weed will be held in Likely at the Weed residence on Sunday, July 6 at 2:00 p.m. All are welcome and encouraged to share a favorite memory. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriner's Children's Hospital or the Phillip Weed Memorial Scholarship Fund at Plumas Bank, 510 North Main St., Alturas, CA 96101.

Sports

Super Bull set for Saturday

For the 18th year, bull, bronc and cow riders, along with young mutton busters, are set to thrill the crowds as they compete in the Super Bull and Ranch Bronc Rodeo at the Modoc District Fairgrounds this Saturday night, June 28, in Cedarville.
The Super Bull caps off a busy weekend in Modoc County -- but what a climax it promises to be! From the night’s opening mutton bustin’ battle to the barn dance that closes a great evening drenched in adrenaline, thrills and contests of brute strength, it’s one Modoc tradition you don’t want to miss.
Twenty bronc riders will compete for the fabled silver buckle and $1,000 added purse while another 20 bull riders will be whittled down to one final champion who will take home his own $1,000 added purse along with an impressive winner’s buckle.
Les Schwab Tires is sponsoring the prized silver belt buckle awarded to the night’s Bronc Champion while Modoc Auto Parts of Alturas is donating the top bull rider’s buckle.
The night of non-stop action starts in the Grandstand Arena at 6:00 p.m.  Tickets are still $12 if purchased at one of many local outlets including Page’s Market, Woody’s Saloon or the Corner Store in Cedarville and at Alturas Auto Parts (NAPA) and Seab’s True Value in Alturas.
Those from out of the area may reserve pre-sale tickets by calling (530) 279-6383 before tomorrow evening.

Medicine Lake Access Update

Please be advised that repair work on Road 49 from the Lava Beds National Monument to the Medicine Lake Recreation Area is scheduled to continue one to two more weeks according to Modoc National Forest officials. Some delays with the road equipment resulted in the repairs taking longer than planned. The construction will occur on weekdays until completed. For more information, contact the Doublehead Ranger Station at 530-667-2246.

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July 3, 2014

News

Lightning sparks several Modoc fires

Firefighters are responding quickly to lightning strike fires in Modoc and with more expected yesterday, time off is at a premium.
Suppression efforts continue on approximately 16 lightning-caused fires across the Modoc National Forest. Additional resources from surrounding areas are arriving on the forest to assist on these incidents. 
Two of the fires are about 30 acres each. The Janes fire is just west of Janes Reservoir on the Devil’s Garden Ranger District, north of Alturas. A crew and several engines are working to contain this fire.
The other 30-acre fire is the Northern Fire, west of Highway 139 and east of the Lava Beds National Monument near Twin Sisters Butte on the Doublehead Ranger District. Aircraft, smokejumpers, and engines are responding to this incident.
The National Weather Service has extended the Red Flag Warning through Wednesday at 11:00 p.m.  The forecast shows hot, dry conditions with the possibility of more dry lightning. Information is posted on Inciweb as it becomes available: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/3919/
For more information, please contact Punky Moore, Public Affairs Officer, 530-233-8713.
A 50-acre lightening-caused fire started about two miles from the campground in Lava Beds National Monument the evening of July 1. The park’s engine crew responded and began procedures to halt the fire. Additional resources including five fire engines and four 20-person crews have been requested to assist with the fire.
As a result of the fire’s proximity to the campground, housing area, and headquarters, the campground was evacuated and about a dozen parties either chose to leave the monument or stay in the visitor center parking lot. The park’s 50 residents were put on alert for potential evacuation, should the fire spread in that direction on Wednesday.

CHP actively investigating fatal Canby hit and run

The California Highway Patrol is still actively investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident that occurred May 29, between the hours of 7:30 to 7:50 a.m. at the intersection of CR83 and 161 in Canby. The CHP would not release any further information at this time.
The victim in that hit and run, William Aronson, 65, of Canby, died from injuries when the vehicle struck him while he was riding his bicycle. The driver left the scene and Aronson was found in the road. 
According to the obituary, Aronson was on his way to work at the I’SOT group home as a childcare worker when he was hit. He was airlifted to a Redding hospital, but died on May 30, never regaining consciousness.

Financial issues continue at Surprise Valley Health Care District

Work at Surprise Valley Health Care District (SVHCD) is progressing forward on developing a short-term plan that will help the District continue to operate and start improving their current cash situation.  According to Modoc Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Kevin Kramer, who is assisting the Surprise Valley facility, last week’s article reported the monthly loss at $200,000, was inaccurate.
While the $200,000 loss may be inaccurate, the Record’s reporting on the number was not. According to the transcript, SVHCD Administrator Wanda Grove said the following in the board meeting: "We're short by about $200,000 bucks a month at the end of the month in paying our bills. It's not improving. It's been going on awhile."
Kramer figures the actual year-to-date through May 31, 2014 of the fiscal year that ended this week, the District has reported a total net loss of $391,807.  This equates to an average total loss of $35,618 per month after District taxes and other non-operating revenue are tabulated in the totals. 
“If you look at the operating expenses and exclude depreciation on the income statement, the immediate pressure on cash to continue to operate and not service debt at this time is around $31,077 per month, based on the year-to-date financial statements,” Kramer said Tuesday.
Currently leadership from SVHCD and Modoc Medical Center (MMC) is working to reduce the amount of productive hours that are paid at the Surprise Valley facility.  A number of departments have been asked to reduce hours in an effort to relieve cash pressure in the coming pay periods, based on observed volumes at the facility and the number of staffed hours observed currently.

Ireland named Fandango Grand Marshal

One of Alturas’ most well known volunteers, Jim Ireland, has been selected as the Fandango Days Parade Grand Marshal.
The Alturas Chamber of Commerce made the choice based upon his many years of relentless and tireless support for our Senior Citizens and Youth programs throughout the community.  
“Although he stood back in the ‘shadows,’ never expecting to be noticed or honored for his unforgettable efforts, our community never forgot Jim as he is always a recognizable figure throughout his daily endeavors,” said Chamber president Stephanie Wellemeyer.  “He is always willing to help out our local businesses, whether it is mowing their lawns or even shoveling snow from their sidewalks.”
Ireland said he was honored and humbled by the selection, but stressed he felt there were a lot of people in Modoc more deserving than him. The Chamber is pleased with their selection and is excited about honoring his service to the community this Saturday.
The Chamber notes that Ireland has lived in Alturas most of his life and without hesitation, continually gives back to the community more than he receives. He graduated from Modoc High School and has been one of its most ardent supporters over the years. If there’s a game, regardless of the sport going on, Ireland will be there, often as an official or running the clock or scoreboard. He always has a positive take on sports and the youth involved, but isn’t shy about giving his opinion.

Obituaries—

Phyllis Dustman
Born August 23, 1925 in Cedarville, California, to Leslie and Frances Addington. Phyllis Dustman passed away June 25, 2014 at Warnerview Nursing Home in Alturas, where she had been a resident for about three months.
There will be a graveside memorial service at the Alturas Cemetery on July 4, 2014 at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.

Ed Haury
Ed Haury died on his ranch in Adin, CA on June 23, 2014, due to an accident while working with his horses.
Ed was born to Edgar (Sr.) and Sarah Haury on May 10, 1927, in Visalia, CA.  He was the eldest of five children.
A graveside memorial service was held at the Adin Cemetery on June 28.
Donations in Ed’s memory can be made to Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch and Girlstown, U.S.A., P.O. Box 1890, Amarillo, TX  79174-0001.

Rod Weed
A potluck yard party celebrating the life of Rodney Curtis Weed will be held in Likely at the Weed residence on Sunday, July 6 at 2:00 p.m. All are welcome and encouraged to share a favorite memory. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital or the Phillip Weed Memorial Scholarship Fund at Plumas Bank, 510 North Main St., Alturas, CA 96101.

Robert “Bob” Radkey
A memorial barbecue to honor the late Robert E. “Bob” Radkey of Alturas will be held at the Blair-Radkey home, 423 Co. Rd. 245 (lower Gooseloop), Alturas on Saturday, July 5 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The family invites everyone to join them at this potluck barbecue at Joan Blair-Radkey’s home. Please call 233-3898 with questions.
Mr. Radkey passed away January 1, 2014. He is survived by his wife Joan of Alturas, CA and children Eric Radkey and Bonnie of Wells, NV, Terry Mullis and Family of Battlemountain, NV, Tracy and Brandon Van Siclen of Caldwell, Idaho, Don Blair of Alturas, CA and Steve Blair of Alturas, CA; five grandchildren 14 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild; numerous nieces and nephews and relatives.

Denise Fogle Nasland
A memorial service for Denise Fogle Nasland will be held July 26, 2014 from 11 a.m.-1p.m. at the Fogle residence, 500 N Court Street, Alturas. Family and friends are encouraged to come and share their favorite memories of Denise as we gather to celebrate her life well lived.  Snacks and soft refreshments will be served.
Denise is survived by her husband William Rockwell Nasland; son Chad (KC) Hetherwick; granddaughter Alaina Hetherwick; parents Ken and Zeta Fogle; sisters Della (Dave) Flackus, Debbie (John) Pedersen, Doreen Fogle, Diane Fogle and many nieces and nephews.

Rurik Davis,  Angel Penn
A Memorial Service for Rurik (TwoBears) Davis and Angel Moonstar Penn will be held July 12 at 5 p.m. in Cedarville at the Cedarville Rancheria Tribal Park. A potluck will follow. Mr. Davis’ and Ms. Penn’s obituaries will follow in a future issue.

Edward Loveless
Edward (Ed) Earl Loveless, 61, was born in Reno, Nevada on March 18, 1953 and passed peacefully in Sacramento, California on Wednesday, June 18, 2014 with his two loving daughters at his side. He served as Alturas Chief of Police.
There will not be a public service at his request.

Lydia Emerson
Former Alturas resident Lydia Ethel (Camou) Emerson passed away June 24, 2014 in Vacaville, CA, a day after her 80th birthday.
Born in San Bernardino, CA on June 23, 1934, Lydia Camou was one of eight children
A Rosary was held June 30 at 6:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Alturas. Lydia was laid to rest next to her husband at the Davis Creek Cemetery during a graveside service on Tuesday, July 1 at 10 a.m.

Mike Jeppson
Deloss Michael “Mike” Jeppson, former Modoc resident, died suddenly of a heart attack, while working in Phoenix, AZ on June 4, 2014.  He was born October 29, 1943 in Seattle, WA, to Deloss Carl and Viola Pattee Jeppson.  He and his family settled in Likely where he attended Likely Elementary and Modoc High, graduating in 1962.
He married Sandra Beeson in June of 1962 and they had 3 children, Bradley, Brentley, and Mykette.  He worked at the Likely Garage and in logging. Mike then went to work for Southern Pacific Railroad where he worked his way up to become a locomotive engineer. A tragic accident took the lives of Sandy, Brent and Mykette in Mt. Shasta May of 1976. 
He then married Mary Finmand Berry and together they raised their sons, Brad and Patrick, in Likely.  He retired from the railroad and moved to Chico in 1985.  Mike owned his own trucking business for the last 25 years.
Mike’s love of hunting and shooting began at an early age when he often remarked how fortunate he was to have lived in Modoc County, where it was the best place and best time for hunting.  Over the years, his hunting trips took him to Canada, Alaska, North Dakota, Missouri, Texas and Argentina.  He was always planning for another hunt.
He is survived by wife, Mary, Chico CA; favorite oldest son Brad (Vicki) Jeppson, Adin CA; favorite youngest son Patrick (Katherine) Berry, Chico CA; mother Viola Jeppson, Auburn CA; mother-in-law Ruth Finmand, Chico CA; brother Duane (Valerie) Jeppson, New Castle, CA; grandchildren Colton (Mary) Jeppson, Reno NV, Deidra Jeppson, Lookout CA; great-grandaughter Mikayla Jeppson, Reno NV. He also left behind a large extended family, numerous friends in many states and in Argentina.  His two beloved dogs, Cola and Nellie, also survive him.
Mike was preceded in death by first wife Sandra; son Brentley; daughter Mykette; his father Deloss Carl and a brother Dennis.
Mike was a one of kind, fun loving character, where no one who ever met him could ever forget him. He was a generous and caring person, but he could never resist getting the last word.  Despite the sad losses in his life, he chose to see the positive in every day. He loved to talk and no matter what the subject, he would always turn the conversation to hunting or shooting.  Remember him, as he was in life, fondly and with a smile.
 A memorial service will be held in Chico CA, August 2, 2014 and a graveside memorial service will be held in Alturas, CA August 9, 2014.  Details to be announced soon.
Contributions in Mike’s name may be made to High Plateau Humane Society in Alturas CA, Butte Humane Society in Chico, CA, or your local Ducks Unlimited.

July 10, 2014

News

Fires keep crews running

Fire crews in and around Modoc have been kept very busy and managed to keep fires that started last week relatively small.
Thunderstorms and lightning were predicted for the middle of the week and crews remained on high alert. Crews were stationed at Ambrose fire camp near Canby.
The Modoc July Complex fires are located on the Modoc National Forest, scattered throughout the Big Valley, Doublehead, and Devil’s Garden Ranger Districts. They are being managed by Northern California Interagency Incident Management Team 2 (NorcalTeam 2). The Gulch Fire is located on the Devil’s Garden Ranger District, north of Canby, California. It is being managed jointly by Norcal Team 2 and Calfire.
The complex was detected July 1, 2014 9:04 p.m. and cause by lightning.
It was burning primarily in brush and as of Monday had reached 1,650 acres
With 444 resources committed.
According to the Modoc National Forest, firefighters worked to strengthen containment lines around the fires and to extinguish interior hot spots.  Current Red Flag conditions were predicted to continue with gusty winds and low relative humidity. Crews are beginning mop up and patrol of fires to ensure that they stay within containment lines. Residents can anticipate visible smoke as interior fuels consume, within containment lines.  The Dalton Fire is estimated at 1,200 acres, 50 percent containment and the Dobie Fire was approximately 450 acres and is 100 percent contained. The Lake Fire, near Pinnacle Lake, was estimated at 70 acres and 50 percent contained.
The Gulch Fire, near Howard’s Gulch started June 3 and is suspected of being human-caused and is under investigation. It had burned about 1,600 acres in grass, brush, and juniper, including some private pastureland
Coleman fire chars 15,000 acres
The Coleman Fire near the Sheldon National Antelope Refuge burned over 15,000 acres, but was contained, with massive air and ground effort, on Wednesday.
The fire was 25 miles east of Fort Bidwell and was started by lightning July 1, about 11 p.m. and was burning in sagebrush, juniper and grass.

SV Hospital looking at cost savings

Some action was taken in an attempt to help ease the Surprise Valley Hospital’s dire financial situation at an emergency board meeting on Monday. The board of directors voted to cut employee’s work hours and limit paid time off as an attempt to help the financial crisis.  
Wanda Grove, the hospital’s CEO presented a list of departments that would have their hours cut. Taking the largest cutbacks were Lab, which will have its hours cut from 102 hours per pay period to 60 hours and Radiology that will experience a drop from 70 hours to 24 hours in a pay period. The two cuts will save the district about $3,200 per pay period.
When it was pointed out by a member of the public that the administration was not included in the cut backs, Grove said she was not done looking.
 “The hospital is in a serious financial situation just to stay open. We need to save an estimated $31,000 per month, and we’ve figured out how to save $20,000 per month so far,” said Grove.
When a concerned citizen asked if the $31,000 included paying back the estimated $2,000,000 debt, Grove replied that the money would cover pay roll and possibly some small bills.
Another taxpayer in the district asked if the responsibility for huge and increasing debt would fall to the residents of the valley to pay, “Will we and our children be saddled with paying the hospital’s debt for the rest of our lives?”
The woman was cut off in mid question by board president Jason Diven and told the question was out of order and to limit statements and questions only to what was on the agenda.

Kramer explains his role in SV hospital issue

The Record asked Modoc Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Kevin Kramer why he was spending time advising the Surprise Valley Healthcare District Board and Administration, and whether SVHCD was reimbursing the Last Frontier Healthcare District for his time.
He explained the situation, even while making a public statement that the SV Hospital financial situation wasn’t as bad as the newspaper reported, agreed there are serious issues. The Record believes its reporting is painting a clear picture of the financial situation at SVHCD.
“The Board (Last Frontier Healthcare District) approved a Memorandum of Understanding stating that we would collaborate with Surprise Valley last month and because of the nature of the financial situation in Surprise Valley and the need for immediate action,” Kramer said. “William (William Van Noy MMC Chief Financial Officer) and I have been analyzing SVHCD’s financials in an effort to make recommendations to their board and leadership team on how to turn the situation around and continue to operate.” 
Kramer said much of that work has been done remotely via email and after hours. 

Board tells Auditor to pay travel

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday voted unanimously to send a minute order to Auditor Darcy Locken to pay all travel reimbursements she has been holding up.
Locken can still refuse to pay the travel reimbursements.
Locken has been holding the travel reimbursements because she is in dispute about the county’s travel policy. That policy is being revamped, and the Board stressed the existing travel policy remains in place until the new policy is adopted. That new policy should be adopted by the Board in the near future. Locken has held up several travel reimbursements since March.
In addition, the Board voted unanimously against a Locken and Treasurer Cheryl Knoch proposal to dip into the reserve to pay $160,000 owed to CalWorks. CalWorks has not requested the total amount.

Obituaries—

Rurik “TwoBears” Daniel Davis
A Memorial service for Rurik “TwoBears” Daniel Davis will be held on Saturday, July 12 at 5 p.m. at the Cedarville Rancheria Park, Cedarville, CA. Rurik was born in Cedarville, CA on February 27, 1963. His life was cut short in Alturas, CA on February 20, 2014, a week shy of his 51st Birthday.

Angel Moonstart Penn
Services for Angel Moonstar Penn will be held Saturday, July 12, 2014 at 5 p.m. at the Cedarville Rancheria Park in Cedarville, CA.
Angel was born August 26, 1994, the sixth sibling of eight children. She grew up in Cedarville and was a member of the Cedarville Rancheria and Northern Paiute Tribe.

Margaret Elaine Corns
Margaret Elaine Corns, daughter of Betty and Herbert Corns of Madeline, CA, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2014 in Alturas, CA. A devout Catholic, a Mass will be held on Saturday, July 12 at 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Alturas, CA and a Rosary on Friday evening. Inurnment will be at Alturas Cemetery.
Born in High River, Alberta, Canada, on May 26, 1962, Margaret moved to the United States at age two in 1964.

Floyd Duane Stimers
Floyd Duane Stimers was born 92 years ago May 11, 1922 to Floyd Walker and Ermina Elizabeth Stimers on the family dairy ranch near Cedarville, CA and died June 30, 2014.
Celebration of life services will be held on July 11 at 2 p.m. at Carmichael Presbyterian Church, 5645 Marconi Avenue, Carmichael, CA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Lois Greve
Graveside services for Lois Greve were held Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at the Alturas Cemetery. Mrs. Greve was an Alturas resident for a number of years and passed away in early July (date unavailable at presstime). Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Ralph J. Galione
A memorial service for Ralph J. Galione with full military honors will be held Saturday, July 12 at 11 a.m. at the Alturas Veterans’ pavilion. Mr. Galione passed away January 8, 2014 at Renown Hospital in Reno, NV. A celebration of life will follow the services at 50 North Weaver Road in California Pines.

Nichoel (Anderson) Priddy
Memorial services for Nichoel Sherrée “Nikki” Priddy will be held Saturday, June 12 at 2 p.m. at Veterans’ Hall, So. Main St., Alturas. Nikki passed away unexpectedly at her home in Brookings, Oregon on Saturday, June 7, 2014.

Sports

AmeriCorps presentation July 15 here

The public is invited to attend a presentation by the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps team at the Modoc National Forest Supervisor’s Office Tuesday, July 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The AmeriCorps NCCC team “Green 5” and SCA student conservation interns have been working on the Modoc National Forest this summer on trail projects in the South Warner Wilderness. The Green 5 Team will give a short presentation on Wilderness 50 and their service work with a potluck and slide show following the presentation. 
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson September 3, 1964. To highlight this important occasion, the Modoc National Forest recently partnered with other organizations to present wilderness education in the Environmental Education Program held at the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge. Assisting agencies and groups were Modoc Outdoor Recreation and Tourism (MORT), U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Bureau of Land Management, Back Country Horsemen – High Country Unit, Modoc County Public Health, and the student Conservation Association.

CDFW workshop on lead bullet ban

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) will hold a public workshop Saturday, July 19 to discuss the implementation of the lead bullet ban. The workshop will be held at the Community Room at City Hall, 777 Cypress Ave. in Redding from 7-8:30 p.m.
A CDFW representative will detail a proposed implementation plan, the PowerPoint is available on the CDFW website. Following the short presentation, interested parties can make comments and provide input that will help shape CDFW’s final recommendation to the Fish and Game Commission, which CDFW anticipates presenting at the Commission’s meeting in Sacramento in September.

July 17, 2014

News

Rhoades bound over on four murder counts

Following an intense preliminary hearing Wednesday morning last week, Cheri Rhoades was bound over on four murder counts and two counts of attempted murder and an enhancement for multiple murders making her eligible for the death penalty.  
According to Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk, the judge declined to hold the defendant to answer on three additional counts of attempted murder.  
“We may add those to the complaint nonetheless and let the trial judge determine, via a 995 motion, whether the evidence is also sufficient to make Rhoades stand trial for those additional potential charges,” Funk said.  “We are also adding an enhancement for murder committed while ‘lying in wait’ which is an additional statutory ground qualifying her to receive death. At this time whether we will pursue a death verdict at trial is unknown.”
Funk said he will make the decision on whether to seek the death penalty in the next two to three months.
Rhoades is accused of killing Rurik Davis, age 50, Angel Penn, age 19, Glenn Calonico, age 30, and Sheila Russo, age 47, at the Cedarville Rancheria Office in Alturas February 20 during a tribal council meeting. The subject of the meeting was her eviction. She had been removed as tribal chairperson in January.

SV Hospital fix torpedoed by staff

EDITOR’S NOTE: AFTER NEWSPAPER PRESS DEADLINE, THE SURPRISE VALLEY HOSPITAL DISTRICT BOARD TOOK VERY SERIOUS ACTION, WHICH MIGHT MAKE A DIFFERENCE. MORE NEXT WEEK.

“There is no time. We are in financial crisis. We must do something now to save the hospital. There has been no leadership here for more than two years,” were all explanations given by the Surprise Valley Health Care District’s Board of Directors in answer to questions posed in a recent special board meeting.
With this week’s resignation of Wanda Grove, SV Hospital administrator, the board has had to assume a stronger leadership role to attempt to keep the hospital open.
It has just recently been made public that Surprise Valley Hospital is nearly $1.5 million in debt, losing patients, and is on the brink of closure, bankruptcy or severe reorganization. In a desperate bid to save the hospital from closure the board reached out for help to Kevin Kramer, Modoc Medical Center CEO and his board of directors.  The MMC board agreed to let Kramer, at no cost to the troubled hospital, look at the SV Hospital financials and he made his recommendations.  
Another special board meeting was called for last Monday in hopes of hiring Kramer to guide them through this crisis by working one day a week at least until another administrator could be found. The SV Board held another meeting yesterday after press time. The Board is continuing to seek a plan for survival. The staff did not present any plan at the previous meeting. Additionally, at least one member of the Board had allegedly been threatened by the current administration.
In the Monday meeting, members of the SV Hospital staff were vehemently opposed to hiring Kramer, accusing him among other things, of having ulterior motives and wanting to close the hospital. The group wanted Bill Bostic, administrative assistant, to assume the top position.
Following the department heads and some staff’s outburst at the meeting, the SV board of directors asked Kramer to assume leadership of the facility for one day a week, pending the approval of his board. A contract was drawn up and Kramer took it to his board for approval.
After discussion of what happened during the SV board meeting, the MMC board decided that Kramer would not accept the position at SV Hospital. Kramer and his board did express that they would be willing to continue to help the SV Hospital should they be asked in the future.

Smoke coming from regional fires

While there are no major wildfires burning in Modoc County, most of the smoke inundating the area is coming from the Bully Fire, near Igo-Ono in Shasta County, which is now at about 8,700 acres with 2,200 firefighters trying to stop the blaze.
It was started by the driver of a pickup truck delivering fertilizer to an illegal marijuana grow. That person has been arrested.
The fire, which started last Friday, continues to be out of control, and has destroyed 18 structures with 68 threatened. Several residents in the area have been given forced evacuation orders.
Another fire near Sprague River, Or., has also destroyed some homes and many people are facing evacuation. The fire had grown to 2,500 acres and it was 15 percent contained as of Wednesday. The cause of that fire is under investigation. The Fire is burning on private land in heavy timber and brush.
No containment date was given.

Fire restrictions start July 21 on BLM

Seasonal restrictions on the outdoor use of fire and firewood cutting begin Monday, July 21, on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management in northeast California and far northwest Nevada.
The restrictions apply to lands managed by the BLM’s Alturas, Eagle Lake and Surprise field offices in Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Sierra, Shasta, Siskiyou and Washoe counties.
Chainsaw use will be allowed only until 1 p.m. daily.

Obituaries—

Nichoel Priddy
Nichoel Sherrée “Nikki” Priddy passed away unexpectedly at her home in Brookings, Oregon on Saturday, June 7, 2014. Born May 16, 1973 in Alturas, CA, to Michelle and Guy Anderson, Nikki grew up in Alturas and graduated from Modoc High School in 1991.
Memorial services were held Saturday, July 12 at 2 p.m. at Veterans’ Hall, So. Main St., Alturas. Memorial donations may be directed to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxiliary to Pete Christensen Post 3327, P.O. Box. 414 Archer Ave., Alturas, CA 96101.

Pamela Price
Pamela June Price died at her home in Oak Harbor, WA surrounded by her family on Sunday, July 13, 2014 after a brief struggle with cancer. She was born in Van Nuys, California December 30, 1939 to Lawrence and Maxine Wray
In her memory, donations may be made to WAIF (Whidbey Animals’ Improvement Foundation) P.O. Box 1108, Coupeville, WA  98239 and Whidbey Island Farm Animal Assistance Program P.O. Box 402, Coupeville WA 98239. A service will announced by the family in the near future.
Arrangements were entrusted to Wallin Funeral Home, Oak Harbor, WA.  To share memories and condolences, please visit Pamela’s Book of Memories at the funeral home website, www.wallinfuneralhome.com.

Launa Berner
Launa Berner, age 69, of Cedarville, CA passed away July 13, 2014 in Surprise Valley. No services are planned at this time.

Karla East
Karla East, age 66, died in Reno, Nevada on July 9, 2014. Ms. East was born September 2, 1947. No further information or city of residence available at presstime.

Stacy Jarvis
Stacy Jarvis, age 45, of Alturas, CA passed away July 8, 2014 in Alturas. Arrangements are pending until a coroner’s investigation is completed.

Denise Fogle Nasland
A memorial service for Denise Fogle Nasland will be held July 26, 2014 from 11 a.m.-1p.m. at the Fogle residence, 500 N Court Street, Alturas. Family and friends are encouraged to come and share their favorite memories of Denise as we gather to celebrate her life well lived.  Snacks and soft refreshments will be served.

Sterling Reith
Sterling (Sam) Reith of Ft. Bidwell passed away July 14, 2014 in Cedarville, CA. Born Nov. 16, 1918, She was a member of the Paiute Tribe. Services will be held Saturday, July 19 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ft. Bidwell Reservation Gymnasium. Her niece MarieEllen Sam of Ft. Bidwell survives. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary.

Harold & Alice Siemer
A Memorial service and Celebration of Life for Harold William Siemer and Alice June Clark Siemer will be held Wednesday, July 30. Adin Cemetery Memorial Service at 11:30 a.m. at Adin Cemetery, followed by a catered lunch at Adin Community Hall at 1 p.m., including Harold’s favorite dessert: pie.

Sports

Modoc High Volleyball camp for grades 7-12

Sarah Ritchie, Head Volleyball Coach for Feather River Junior College and her assistants will provide a Volleyball Camp for girls in grades 7 – 12 for two groups: Beginners and Intermediate from July 21-23 at Modoc High School’s Griswold Gym, Alturas.
The camp will run from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.  with warm-up stretch, skill stations – passing and setting, hitting and serving; team play and cool down/stretch.
In her eighth year at the helm of the program, Ritchie has created a dominant program, which is ranked as one of the top teams in the state of California regularly. She led the FRC volleyball team to the California State Playoffs for the past seven years. In 2008 and 2012 her team reached the California State Elite 8 Tournament and most recently finished 10th in the state in the 2013 campaign.
Assisting Coach Ritchie will be Feather River College Assistant coaches Amanda Sbragia and Brittany Hall.
Sbragia came to Feather River from Texas Tech University where she lettered in volleyball for the Red Raiders for two years. Sbragia has assisted Ritchie at Feather River for the past five years.
Before returning to Feather River College as a coach, Hall played two years of volleyball for the Golden Eagles and then transferred to UNLV where she received her degree in Kinesiology. Hall has coached at Feather River for two years and is also the current club director for Plumas Volleyball Club.
Registration will be accepted at 7:30 a.m. July 21 at the gym. Cost is $125 and wear appropriate court shoes (already broken in), bring a water bottle, volleyball kneepads and a snack. Each camper must provide her own insurance. If further information is needed, please call Wendi at 708-1694. Please make checks payable to Sarah Ritchie.

Modoc Minor All-Stars place third

Modoc opened the section tournaments against Yuba City/ Marysville on Saturday, July 12 losing 10-0. In game two, Modoc knocked out East Sacramento with a 7-3 win and in game three Modoc beat Red Bluff with a 15-12 win. In the semi-finals they faced Yuba City/Marysville again and lost 15-5.
The team is Coach Lori Olson, Alicia Larranaga, Coach Rene’ Larranaga, Harley McLaughlin, Kayla Derner, Aaleyah Munoz, Coach Jodie Larranaga, Jenne Nelson, Lilliana Haddoz, Megan Nelson, Adrannia Haddox.

July 24, 2014

News

Lightning sparks new fires on the MNF

After a fairly quiet day on the Modoc National Forest, afternoon thunderstorms July 22 again moved across the area and sparked at least three new fires. They are located north of Alturas on the Devil’s Garden Ranger District.
The Dutch Two incident is northwest of Big Sage Reservoir; the Rim incident is on the far northern end of the Devil’s Garden near the Oregon border and the Diamond Fire is between the Diamond and Baseball reservoirs just northwest of Crowder Flat. Engines, crews and helicopters are working to contain these fires.   
At least 22 fires have been confirmed across the forest since thunderstorm activity started July 20. All of the fires, except the three new ones today, have been contained. 
More than 130 personnel are assigned to the Modoc National Forest to assist with suppression efforts.

SV Hospital takes steps to brighter future

Time appears to be the key word for Surprise Valley Hospital: there’s no time, yet the timing is perfect.
“Three months ago the board would have incurred the wrath of hospital staff and the Dr. Roberts group. Nothing would have been accomplished,” said Jason Diven, president of the board of directors at the troubled hospital.
Last Wednesday, the Board accepted the resignation of interim administrator Bill Bostic. Administrator Wanda Grove had resigned earlier in the month.
In an impassioned plea to staff and members of the public, Diven said in part, “The red ink has been growing quickly, and those of you with financial backgrounds recognized it earlier than did many on the board, and sounded alarms long ago. Over three months ago, the board felt desperate that we had to do something, as we felt we were getting little more than hand-wringing from the administration, and no solutions, no fiscal analysis, no projections, and no alternatives. We formed an ad hoc committee and Carl and I approached several members of the Last Frontier Healthcare Board about getting help with our financial situation. After a long series of many meetings, and with Kevin Kramer’s team’s donated help, we began the first part of getting a plan together to address the roughly $31,000 loss each month. Kevin was the first to define the problem in that way, and in hindsight, it was a fairly simple analysis, but it took someone from the outside to do the math for the first time.”

County accepts grant for groundwater plan

Should the County try to get ahead on ground and surface water management, or just wait for the state to make the rules?
That was the basic question facing the Modoc Board of Supervisors in Tuesday.
In somewhat of a gift from the Gods, grant funding appeared that could give the County a real push into local control. The California Office of Emergency Services offered a one-time grant of $283,197 to the County Office of Emergency Services “to compile data to aid in the development of future water management plans.”
After a long period of discussion, the Board voted unanimously to accept the grant and begin the process. The grant requires a 100 percent match, which Modoc OES Director A.J. McQuarrie told the Board she was confident the County could meet. Much if that match will be of in-kind services.
McQuarrie said the grant offered to Modoc County was “unprecedented” from the state and gave the County a chance to put together a pilot program on water management.
When asked by Supervisor Dave Allan why Modoc was selected OES’s Region Three representative Grizz Adams, said it was because Modoc was the first in line. He felt the County had a real shot at putting together a model plan.

Modoc jobless rate drops to 8%

The Modoc County unemployment rate dropped to 8.0 percent for June 2014, drown from 9.1 percent in May and from 10.4 percent in June last year.
The California Employment Development Department released the statistics this week. The county’s civilian workforce numbered 3,880 in June, compared to 3,550 in May with 3,570 working and 310 claiming unemployment. In May, 3,230 were employed and 320 were unemployed.
The 2014 number are significantly lower than June 2013, when the labor force numbered 4,050 with 3,630 employed and 420 unemployed.
Total non-farm employment showed an increase from 2,210 to 2,440 jobs. Local, state and federal employment jumped up from 1,240 employees to 1,430. Local government increased from 940 to 1,080 jobs while federal employment went up from 220 to 270. Seasonal farm labor increased from 420 to 510.

Obituaries—

Mary Gilmore
Alturas resident Mary Elizabeth Gilmore, former elementary school teacher and member of Faith Baptist Church, went to be with our Savior on July 16, 2014, enduring her illness with much grace and dignity.
Mary, also known to some as Betty, was born in Antlers, OK in 1931
A memorial service will be held in celebration of her life on July 25, 2014 at 10 a.m. at the Faith Baptist Church in Alturas, CA.

Stacy Jarvis
Stacy Deanlerey Jarvis was born in Los Angeles County to Roy Jarvis. Her mother passed away giving birth to her, so her Daddy raised her. She passed away at the age of 45 on July 8, 2014 in Alturas, CA.

Charles R. Roethler
1937 - 2014 
Charles Robert “Chuck” Roethler, 76, passed away July 9, 2014, with family by his side. He was born July 10, 1937, in Alliance, Neb., to Loyal and Mary (Gapter) Roethler. At a later date, Chuck and Ila’s ashes will be laid to rest at Misty Fjords National Monument, surrounded by the beautiful ocean waters and peaceful beaches of Alaska. 

Denise Fogle Nasland
A memorial service for Denise Fogle Nasland will be held July 26, 2014 from 11 a.m.-1p.m. at the Fogle residence, 500 N Court Street, Alturas. Family and friends are encouraged to come and share their favorite memories of Denise as we gather to celebrate her life well lived.  Snacks and soft refreshments will be served.

Siemer Memorial 
A Memorial service and Celebration of Life for Harold William Siemer and Alice June Clark Siemer will be held Wednesday, July 30. Adin Cemetery Memorial Service at 11:30 a.m. at Adin Cemetery, followed by a catered lunch at Adin Community Hall at 1 p.m., including Harold’s favorite dessert: pie.

William “Bill” Prock
William C. Prock, 83, passed away at his home near Alturas, CA on July 21, 2014. There are no services planned at this time. A celebration of his life may be held at a later date. Mr. Prock took in and cared for over 100 children with his late wife Mary Ann, who passed away in 2011. An infant son Robert Charles Prock preceded them in death. No further information was available at presstime.

“Mike” Jeppson
Services for Deloss Michael “Mike” Jeppson will be held on August 9, 2014 at 2 p.m. at the Alturas Cemetery with a gathering to follow at the Niles Hotel, Alturas.
Mike and his family settled in Likely where he attended Likely Elementary and Modoc High, graduating in 1962.
Mike died suddenly of a heart attack, while working in Phoenix, AZ on June 4, 2014.
Contributions in Mike’s name may be made to High Plateau Humane Society in Alturas CA, Butte Humane Society in Chico, CA, or your local Ducks Unlimited.

Sports

Run for Our Little Roses

Register by August 1 to take part in the “Run for Our Little Roses.”
“We are hoping to make this one much bigger on September 13 as a part of the annual Wings of the Warner festival in Alturas,” says coordinator Dan Roeder of Alturas.
Race pledges will help support the “Our Little Roses” orphanage in Honduras, which takes in abandoned girls and gives them a home and an education. Recent graduates have gone on to become doctors, lawyers, social workers and artisans.  
The race will include a one mile fun run for kids up to age 12 and a 5k, 10k, half marathon for runners over age 12. Registration for the event will include a pledge and runners will be asked to raise additional pledges. The base pledge for the fun run is $15 and the base pledge for the other races is $40. All runners will receive bibs and medals; runners for the 5k, 10k and half marathon will receive a visor. Deadline to register is August 1. For more information and to register, please visit www.facebook.com/alturasrunforourlittleroses or call Dan Roeder at (320) 267-4867.

Football practice starts August 11, get forms in

Modoc High School football practice will start August 11, 5:30 p.m. on the football field.
Coach Shaun Wood reminds players they need to have physicals completed and all necessary information forms turned in before they can practice.
Players can pick up forms from Wood during the afternoon at the MHS weight room or go on line to MHS to get the necessary documents.
Both varsity and junior varsity players will start practice August 11.

NFL Play 60 flag football meeting

An information and question and answer session for the upcoming NFL Play 60 flag football program is scheduled for July 27, 6 p.m. at the third room at Latchkey.
NFL Play 60 flag football is for boys and girls from first to sixth grades. Parents and anyone wanting to volunteer as a coach or referee is encouraged to attend.
The Latchkey building is located at 809 West Eighth Street, and is in the buildings east of the main Elementary School. For more information, contact Ernie Givan, 640-3234.

Soccer practice starts August 11

New Coach Bill Hall said Modoc High School practice starts August 11. A player and parent meeting is set Thursday, August 7 at 6 p.m. at Griswold Gym.
Players should have all paperwork filled out and turned in before they can practice. The first game is on September 5, with a home match against the Trinity Wolves. All games start at 5 p.m. Paperwork can be picked up at morning weight training session M-W-F from 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. or open gym on Thursday nights at 6 p.m.

July 31, 2014

News

State gets serious about water use

On July 29, 2014, an emergency regulation to increase conservation practices for all Californians went into effect.  The new conservation regulation targets outdoor urban water use.  In some areas of the State, 50 percent or more of daily water use is for lawns and outdoor landscaping.
This regulation establishes the minimum level of activity that residents, businesses and water suppliers must meet as the drought deepens and will be in effect for 270 days unless extended or repealed.
The regulation, adopted by the State Water Board July 15, and approved by the Office of Administrative Law July 28, mandates minimum actions to conserve water supplies both for this year and into 2015.  For more information please visit the Conservation Regulation Portal.
With this regulation, all Californians are expected to stop: washing down driveways and sidewalks; watering of outdoor landscapes that cause excess runoff; using a hose to wash a motor vehicle, unless the hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle, and using potable water in a fountain or decorative water feature, unless the water is re-circulated. The regulation makes an exception for health and safety circumstances.
Alturas Public Works Director Joe Picotte said the regulations do cover Alturas and stressed there will be some action taken if there is obvious waste of water. For the most part, Picotte said residents should use their common sense and try to conserve where they can. Modoc and the rest of California are in severe drought situation that taking conservation seriously is important.

Chip seal project to begin on 395

The California Department of Transportation, Caltrans District 2, along with American Pavement Systems from Modesto, CA, are working on a highway maintenance project on U.S. Hwy 395 now.
The project began in Alturas, just north of the Caltrans maintenance yard, and extends north about 17 miles to just south of Davis Creek.  The chip seal project is designed to repair existing pavement and extend its service life for several more years. One-way traffic control will be in effect through the end of August. Motorists may experience delays of up to 15 minutes.
Caltrans would like to remind the traveling public to please move over if safe or slow down when they see Caltrans vehicles flashing warning lights along the side of the highways. It is the law.

Warnerview takes huge step up in quality

Just to show that good management and dedicated staff make a huge difference, last month the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released the updated ranking for Warnerview Skilled Nursing Facility at Modoc Medical Center. Warnerview now proudly ranks four out of five stars in overall quality on CMS Nursing Home Compare Website.
“We are so proud of our facility. Warnerview ranked only two out of five stars three years ago and our hard work to deliver the best possible care to our residents has been measured and recognized. “We are so fortunate to have such dedicated employees that give their all to our residents every day.” Stated Michele McQuillan, Chief Nursing Officer.

County roads closed

The Modoc County Road Department will be temporarily closing roads in the Newell area for railroad crossing improvements.
County Road 102 will be closed August 4 and 5. CR 104 will be closed August 11 and 12. CR 105 will be closed August 18 and 19.
CR 94 in the Lookout area will be closed from August 4 through August 8 for railroad crossing improvements.

SV Hospital embarks on new path

The Surprise Valley Hospital is embarking on a new path, under new management and under no illusions about its problems and solutions. The Hospital Board hired Modoc Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Kevin Kramer to work one day per week at SV.
"Without Kevin's help our hospital would be closed. We are indebted to the Last Frontier Healthcare District board for letting him work with us. We as a board are optimistic about the future of medical care in the valley," said Diven.
 For three months Kramer will work one day a week in Cedarville and the SVHCD will pay 20 percent of his salary. It is hoped that by the end of the contract period a new administrator will be found, communication and a good working relationship will be established between the hospitals.
 "We are excited at how the management team is working productively with Kevin and the board to refine our initial round of pay cuts. We definitely intend them to be temporary, until we can work on increasing revenue, which will take longer to implement," said Diven.

Obituaries—

Sigurd Monte Sonnevil
Sigurd Monte Sonnevil passed away on July 22, 2014 in Brookings, Oregon at the age of 91. Monte was born on April 17, 1923 in Richland, Michigan and grew up on a farm near Kalamazoo
A memorial service will be held for Monte on September 13, 2014 at the Federated Church in Alturas.

Sandra K. Rose
Sandra Kaye Rose of Alturas passed away from Pancreatic Cancer on July 28, 2014 at home in the loving care of her partner James E. Watson and her family. Sandra was born August 6, 1961 in Santa Rosa, CA, the youngest child of Ray and Mary Evelyn Rose.
It was Sandra’s wishes to have her ashes buried at sea in Bodega Bay, CA, along with her father.

Louis Pagan
Louis Pagan, born January 18, 1923, passed away peacefully at his home in San Bruno, CA surrounded by his family on July 19, 2014 at the age of 91. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sutter Hospice (suttercareathome.org) or the VA (sanfrancisco.va.gov/giving).

Launa Ann Shippen Berner
Launa Ann Shippen Berner ended her battle with lung cancer July 13, 2014 at age 69. 
Launa was born February 1, 1945 and she grew up in Cedarville, CA with her parents Trilma and Vernon Shippen and her brother Lawrence
Memorial services to be held at a later date. Donations can be made in her name to Surprise Valley Community Church, 405 Bonner, Cedarville, CA, 96104 or Sky Lakes Cancer Treatment Center, 2610 Uhrmann Rd., Klamath, OR 97601.

Mary L. Krump
Alturas resident Mary Louise Krump passed away in Alturas, CA July 24, 2014 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born Mary Louise Chambers in Ottumwa, Iowa on April 17, 1945, she attended Banning High in Wilmington, CA.

Cecil R. Walker
Former Alturas resident Cecil R. Walker passed away at his home in Anderson, CA on July 4, 2014. Cecil lived in Alturas many years and raised his family of six hereCecil was 81 years old this year.

Sports

Football practice starts August 11, get forms in

Modoc High School football practice will start August 11, 5:30 p.m. on the football field.
Coach Shaun Wood reminds players they need to have physicals completed and all necessary information forms turned in before they can practice.
Players can pick up forms from Wood during the afternoon at the MHS weight room or go on line to MHS to get the necessary documents.
Both varsity and junior varsity players will start practice August 11.

Soccer practice starts August 11

New Coach Bill Hall said Modoc High School practice starts August 11. A player and parent meeting is set Thursday, August 7 at 6 p.m. at Griswold Gym.
Players should have all paperwork filled out and turned in before they can practice. The first game is on September 5, with a home match against the Trinity Wolves. All games start at 5 p.m. Paperwork can be picked up at morning weight training session M-W-F from 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. or open gym on Thursday nights at 6 p.m.

Youths can learn to play golf Monday

The Evie Capik Memorial Junior Golf Camp is a great way to teach all youths, ages 5 and up, how to get started playing golf this summer.  The camp program will run Monday through Wednesday, August 4, 5 and 6 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Arrowhead Golf Course, Alturas. All youths welcome.
Cost is $10 per child. Ages five and older welcome
The summer program is made possible through donations to the Evie Capik Youth Golf Program. Donations for the Youth Program can be sent payable to Arrowhead Women’s Club, care of Plumas Bank, 510 N. Main St., Alturas, CA 96101. In the check memo please specify for Evie Capik Golf Program.
For more information or to sign up for the camp, please call Arrowhead Golf Course, (530) 233-3404 or stop by the Arrowhead Clubhouse, 1901 N. Warner St., Alturas.

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August 7, 2014

News

Day Fire contained, five cabins lost

The Day Fire in Modoc County prompted evacuations over the weekend of both the Day area and the Lookout Ranchettes as fire crews struggled to gain the upper hand on a very hot fire.
The evacuations were lifted on August 5 for Lookout, but five seasonal/recreation residences and one out building in Gasper Meadows had been destroyed. The Day area got relief when the wind changed fire direction and headed east. Rain on Tuesday night also helped fire-fighting efforts.
As of Tuesday, the Eiler and Bald Fires near Burney and Fall River were still creating major issues for the communities. Hat Creek lost some residences and businesses. Storms on Tuesday provided some needed relief, but fire crews were also concerned about lightning and mud. See related story.
According to Modoc Emergency Operations Center Manager A.J. McQuarrie, the Modoc County Sheriff's Office was involved with a call coming from Cal FIRE on July 30 stating the community of Day needed to be evacuated. Sheriff's Deputies responded and went door to door to notify residents in the area, which activated the Emergency Operations Center at a level two.  A shelter site was set up at the Fall River High School in McArthur to accommodate evacuees. At 9:00 p.m. on July 31, 2014 Red Cross volunteers were sent home as there were no evacuees utilizing the shelter.  
“At 2:24 a.m. on August 1, 2014 Sheriff Mike Poindexter received another call from Cal FIRE notifying him that advisory/precautionary evacuations needed to be done in the Lookout Ranchettes beginning at 6:00 a.m.,” McQuarrie said. “Deputies were called out to make contact with residences in that area. The Emergency Operations Center notified Supervisors, Public Health, Social Services, and the Red Cross that a shelter needed to be opened at the Adin Community Hall in Adin.  The Animal Control Officer was also dispatched to Adin to aid in any animal evacuations that may be needed.”

Burney evacuation order lifted

The evacuation order for the Burney area was lifted Wednesday after a major storm doused the fires and aided firefighters on the Eiler Fire.
The lightning-caused fire in the Lassen National Forest’s Thousand Lakes Wilderness had forced evacuation of homes in the Shasta County communities of Johnson Park, Cassel and Big Eddy Estates, as firefighters continued to battle large fires in northeast California. An evacuation advisory was in place for the community of Burney on Tuesday.
The Eiler Fire south of Burney was reported at 31,085 acres Wednesday. It burned across Highway 89 in the Hat Creek Area and was burning in heavy timber on both sides of the highway. Eight houses and 20 other structures were burned near the Honn Campground area. No injuries were reported. The fire moved northward, threatening communities.
The Thousand Lakes Wilderness and the Honn, Bridge and Rocky campgrounds along Highway 89 in the fire area were closed. The Pacific Crest Trail was closed from Highway 44 to Highway 299. Highway 89 was also closed from the junction with Highway 44 in Old Station north to the junction with Highway 299. Highway closure information is available from the California Department of Transportation at (800) 427-7623.
The Bald Fire, also on the Lassen National Forest, eight miles southeast of Fall River Mills, grew to 35,000 acres and forced evacuation of homes in the Little Valley area of northwest Lassen County. There have been no structures damaged or destroyed. The fire is burning heavy brush and scattered timber.

SV Hospital takes necessary financial steps

The team at Surprise Valley Health Care District led by Kevin Kramer, CEO, continues to take steps toward financial viability.  The focus remains on reducing operating expenses to improve their cash position. 
With this goal in mind, there will be a Board of Directors meeting on Friday, August 8, at 1:30 p.m. to take action on several items. These will include further reduction in staffed hours in several departments, a wage scale market analysis and an update to the charge master. 
“The charge master is the list of every billable charge that the hospital has; the specific focus of this review is for outpatient lab and radiology fees, as well as the technical fee component of the ER charges,” said Megan Grove, Chief Financial Officer for the SV Health Care District.
 “We are seeking answers from the state on minimum staffing, and lowering radiology wages to be in line with Modoc Medical Center. My goal for the next three weeks is to get us as lean as possible,” said Kramer.
Kramer also stated that the hospital will make payroll without having to borrow money, but also stated that they will start working on the payables as soon as possible.

Chip seal project to begin on 395

The California Department of Transportation, Caltrans District 2, along with American Pavement Systems from Modesto, CA, are working on a highway maintenance project on U.S. Hwy 395 now.
The project began in Alturas, just north of the Caltrans maintenance yard, and extends north about 17 miles to just south of Davis Creek.  The chip seal project is designed to repair existing pavement and extend its service life for several more years. One-way traffic control will be in effect through the end of August. Motorists may experience delays of up to 15 minutes.
Caltrans would like to remind the traveling public to please move over if safe or slow down when they see Caltrans vehicles flashing warning lights along the side of the highways. It is the law.

Marion Eugene “Bud” Kirk
August 8, 1925 - July 31, 2014
Former Alturas Pastor and Tuolumne resident Marion Eugene “Bud” Kirk died Thursday, July 31, 2014 at Sonora Regional Medical Center Long Term Care Unit 6.
He was born in Fords Ferry, Kentucky on August 8, 1925 to Homer and Ina Kirk.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 9 at 11:00 a.m. in Tuolumne at Terzich and Wilson Funeral Home Chapel. Terzeich and Wilson Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

William “Bill” Prock
A Memorial service for William (Bill) Prock who passed away at home July 28, will be held at Stowe Reservoir just off of Cedar Pass on Sunday, August 10 at 1:00 p.m. A potluck will follow. All are welcome to attend the celebration of his life at his old fishing hole. Mr. Prock’s obituary will be published next week.

Helen M. Hoffman
Helen Mary Hoffman of Alturas passed peacefully in her sleep on August 4, 2014 in Alturas, CA. Born Helen Devlin on September 11, 1936 in Brooklyn, New York,
Funeral services will be held at Kerr Mortuary Chapel in Alturas on Monday, Aug. 11 at 8 a.m. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at the Veterans Cemetery in Igo, CA.
The family suggests any memorial donations be sent online to Veterans Guest House in Reno, NV. Arrangements by Kerr Mortuary, Alturas.

Pauline Courtney
Pauline Courtney passed away in Anderson, California on July 28, 2014, at the age of 99. She was a long-time resident of Modoc County, moving to Anderson in 1965.
Pauline was born in Texas, the second child in a family of 11 children. Services were held at the Church of Christ in Anderson, CA on August 6.

Deloss “Mike” Jeppson
Services for Deloss Michael "Mike" Jeppson will be held on August 9, 2014 at 2 p.m. at the Alturas Cemetery with a gathering to follow at the Niles Hotel, Alturas.
Mike and his family settled in Likely where he attended Likely Elementary and Modoc High, graduating in 1962.
Mike died suddenly of a heart attack, while working in Phoenix, AZ on June 4, 2014.
Contributions in Mike's name may be made to High Plateau Humane Society in Alturas CA, Butte Humane Society in Chico, CA, or your local Ducks Unlimited.

Sports

Football practice starts August 11

Modoc High School football practice will start August 11, 5:30 p.m. on the football field.
Coach Shaun Wood reminds players they need to have physicals completed and all necessary information forms turned in before they can practice.
Players can pick up forms from Wood during the afternoon at the MHS weight room or go on line to MHS to get the necessary documents.
Both varsity and junior varsity players will start practice August 11.

Last chance for flag football

Kids ages kindergarten through sixth grade have a last chance to sign up for Flag Football August 8.
Kids can get the sign-up sheets at the Latchkey building at Alturas Elementary School. If kids sign up online, they still need to fill out the form at Latchkey.
There will be a coach and referee meeting August 10 at the Latchkey building. For more information, call Ernie Givan at 530-640-3234.

Soccer practice starts August 11

New Coach Bill Hall said Modoc High School practice starts August 11. A player and parent meeting is set Thursday, August 7 at 6 p.m. at Griswold Gym.
Players should have all paperwork filled out and turned in before they can practice. The first game is on September 5, with a home match against the Trinity Wolves. All games start at 5 p.m. Paperwork can be picked up at morning weight training session M-W-F from 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. or open gym on Thursday nights at 6 p.m.

MHS volleyball tryouts August 18-20

Volleyball tryouts will be held on August 18-20 at 3:30 p.m. in the Griswold Gym. All girls must have a physical and all paperwork filled out prior to trying out.
Gym shoes and kneepads are a must for tryouts. Please see the high school website for the schedule.

August 14, 2014

News

Water storage issue opposed by County

The state’s idea curtailing the storing of water in reservoirs and water holes did not sit well with Modoc County Board of Supervisors. On Tuesday, the Board agreed to send a letter to the state opposing the plan.
“With the current drought curtailment regulations, the Board of Supervisors realizes and understands that they are needed to help deal with the unprecedented drought conditions that California is facing,” the letter states. “This county is at the beginning of the water source and has health and safety, agriculture, wildfire prevention, recreational, fisheries and wildlife demands on these water sources. Our high desert climate and area is very different than that of other valley, mountain and coastal areas of California and receives less annual rain/snow fall then most areas in the state.”
Supervisors basically agreed with a letter sent to the agency by Dan Lowry of S/X Ranch that was dated June 23, 2014. Lowry said that most, if not all of the reservoirs located in Modoc County are the final source for rain and snow runoff and the few reservoirs that do have the ability to provide water downstream are far below the normal levels to allow water to continue downstream.

Little Fire 100% Contained

Firefighters have contained the Little Fire on the Doublehead Ranger District of the Modoc National Forest at 101 acres. The fire is located approximately 20 miles west of Canby, Calif. and was reported by the Timber Mountain Lookout around 3:00 p.m. Tuesday. 
The Modoc Interagency Communications Center quickly dispatched several engines, dozers, crews, helicopters and air tankers to the lightning-caused fire and firefighters worked late into the evening to reach containment. About 50 personnel remain assigned to the incident to reinforce fire lines and mop up.
Tuesday, there were ten confirmed fires on the Modoc including the Little Fire. The rest were located on the Devil’s Garden and Warner Mountain ranger districts and were contained at less than one acre each.

Day Fire remains under watch

The Day Fire in Modoc County remained under constant watch by fire crews, but as of Sunday was 94 percent contained at 13,153 acres. Full containment was expected on Monday.
There were six structures destroyed by the fire, and five of those were cabins. There are no structures currently under threat. Cal Fire reported six injuries during the blaze, which was started by lightning July 30.
This week crews were finding hot spots along the fire’s perimeter. On Sunday thunderstorms were building throughout the day with the fire area experiencing winds of five to 10 m.p.h. Crews were able to hold containment lines. On Monday, the crews were extinguishing any hot spots and were expecting more thunderstorms.

Biomass heating district study done

A consultant hired by the City to assess the feasibility and structure of a biomass-heating district presented his preliminary report at a meeting Monday afternoon. Sierra Nevada Conservancy awarded the City a grant to do the study.
While the report, as was asked, looked at creating a heating district using primarily chips and waste wood products from the local area, it morphed into more of a discussion about pellet fired units in each building. That wasn’t the actual charge given the consultant.
Andrew Haden, of Westwood, Inc. out of Portland said the original idea was to include the Modoc County Courthouse, Barclay Justice Center, Modoc County Jail, Modoc Transportation Commission and Niles Hotel as “customers” of the heating district. The Niles and MCTC were deemed not feasible and were dropped from the plan.

New jail money may be open

Modoc County Chief Administrative Officer Chester Robertson told the Board of Supervisors Tuesday that grant money might be available for a new jail or jail renovation.
The State Board of State and Community Corrections Department has notified small counties that Tehama County will return $6,526,000 in small county set aside funds from Senate Bill 1022, Adult Local Criminal Justice Facilities. That money could be available to counties who were not funded in the grant rounds last year.
Modoc is not high on the list, but since it only applied for about 7.5 million last year to build a new facility, it has the chance to move up the ladder.

Obituaries—

Nicholas A. Contaxis
Nicholas Anthony Contaxis, age 61, of Alturas, passed away peacefully at his home in Alturas, CA on Sunday evening, August 10, 2014. With the many “hats” Nick wore during his lifetime, he touched many lives, through his work with Kerr Mortuary, as a popular DJ for many celebrations, including Fandango Days and as a past member of the ambulance crew.
His memorial service and a potluck will be held on August 22 at 10 a.m. at Veterans’ Memorial Hall, So. Main St., Alturas. Burial will be on August 26, 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Oakland, CA. Nick was born October 6, 1952. His obituary will be published in a future issue.

Eldora Geneva Minto
A funeral service will be held for Eldora Geneva Minto on Saturday, August 16 at 2 p.m. at the Durham Community United Methodist Church and a graveside service on Sunday, August 17 at the Eagleville Cemetery. She passed away at her home in Durham on Friday, August 8, 2014.
Eldora was born on August 24, 1921 in Sacramento CA, to Alfred and Golda Whipple. Arrangements are under the direction of the Brusie Funeral Home of Chico.

Eugenio “Gene” Villarreal
Eugenio “Gene” Torres Villarreal of Alturas passed away August 8, 2014 in Torrance, CA. He was born September 2, 1947 in San Antonio, Texas
Mr. Villarreal’s services will be held in Wilmington, CA.
Contributions may be directed to the family at 24713 Island Ave., Carson, CA 90745.

Janet Bentz
Janet Bentz, Mayfly Pub owner in Fall River Mills, CA, reached her final destination in life by ascending from this earth to the next world on July 19, 2014, at the age of 62.
She was surrounded by family and friends and was loved through her last breath.
Born in Merced, California, Jan lived several years in the East Bay and Half Moon Bay areas, where she raised her two daughters and made many great friends.
A memorial service for family and friends was held on Sunday, Aug. 3 at noon at the Fall River Lions Hall in McArthur.

Sports

MHS volleyball tryouts August 18-20

Volleyball tryouts will be held on August 18-20 at 3:30 p.m. in the Griswold Gym. All girls must have a physical and all paperwork filled out prior to trying out.
Gym shoes and kneepads are a must for tryouts. Please see the high school website for the schedule.

Flag football mini-camp August 17

There will be a flag football mini-camp for all new players August 17, 5 p.m. at the Rotary North Field.
Players will get acquainted with flag football rules and techniques. For more information, contact Ernie Givan at 530-640-3234.

Youth soccer sign-ups August 14

Modoc Youth Soccer sign-ups are scheduled Thursday, August 14, 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Rotary North Field. Registration is $40 per player and $45 if a uniform is needed (uniform required). Kids must be age four by July 1, 2014. Any questions, please contact Lisa Williams at 708-1558.

August 21, 2014

News

Water bond gets positive reaction

Assembly Member Brian Dahle, R-Bieber, issued the following statement responding to the vote by the Legislature to place an alternative water bond on the November 2014 ballot:
“After holding an Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee Hearing in Redding and receiving feedback from over 8,000 constituents, it was evident that securing funding for above ground storage was at the top of the list of any comprehensive solution for folks in the North State. 
 Adequate new water storage to meet the needs of California’s growing population and agriculture is imperative to secure California’s economic stability.
“I am confident that, with this bi-partisan water bond, all Californians will be able to support a plan that will finally get our state on the path to creating a more reliable water supply for generations to come," Dahle said.
North State Senator Jim Nielsen (R-Gerber), a farmer and life-time advocate for water storage, issued the following statement today regarding the passage of the water bond.

Charges dismissed in Ewing theft case

Modoc County District Attorney Jordan Funk on Wednesday dismissed the criminal case against Gary Sweetin and Efrain Quezada and asked the court to make a “factual finding of innocence" that Mr. Efrain Quezada is innocent.
Funk said the basis of the decision to dismiss the cases was a failure of proof revealed in subsequent investigation. The alleged victim is deceased and substantial evidence surfaced showing that the alleged victim may have sold or gave away much of the property his family was claiming as stolen.
“On closer examination there also developed reasons to believe that much of the allegedly stolen property actually belonged to the defendants,” Funk said.

July jobless rate inches up

The unemployment rate for Modoc County in July inched up from June’s 8.1 percent to 8.8 percent, according to the State Employment Development Department.
That’s down from July 2013 when the jobless rate stood at 10.8 percent. A year ago the number of unemployed was 420 and this year it dropped to 330. A difference is the labor force also dropped from 3,880 in 2013 to 3,720 this July. There were 3,400 people employed in July 2014 versus 3,460 in July 2013. The number of employed people dropped from June’s 3,570.
The biggest hit to the unemployment statistics was in local government where June’s total of 1,080 plunged to 870. Still, government makes up 35.8 percent of the total jobs in the County.

Modoc Fair opens today for big weekend

The Modoc Fair will open its gates to the public Thursday at noon for the 94th annual Modoc District Fair. It runs through Sunday. All the exhibits will be in place, carnival rides ready for the children, animals primped for the big show and fair time smells will waft through the air. With so many sights and sounds, no one wants to miss such an occasion.
Headline events for opening day include the Pee-Wee Showmanship, Basque Barbecue hosted by the SV Chamber of Commerce and Mark Walgenbach Memorial Dog Trials. Admission Thursday is $2 for everyone and free to kids five and under.
Friday morning will begin with the Junior & Senior horse events. Gates open at noon and tons of free contests, games and highlights that will dot the fairgrounds. They include a Watermelon Eating Contest, Diaper Derby, Kids Day Rodeo and Greased Pig Contest. These events are not only free, but extremely fun. The Jackpot Livestock Show starts at 2 p.m. in the livestock arena and the Fort Bidwell Fire Department Chicken Barbecue at 5 p.m. 
The grandstand event for the evening is the Bronc and Junior Steer Riding at 7:30 p.m. Admission to grandstand evening events is $10 for adults and $5 for kids. An Adult Greased Pig Contest will be held during intermission.  Local band “Heartless” will round out the evening with a dance at the beer garden.
Saturday brings horsemen alike to the arena for the cutting, working cow, snaffle bit and ranch horse classes. The baseball field will hold the annual Men’s Softball Tournament and Home Run Derby. Regular livestock classes will be held in the livestock area starting 8 a.m.  Classes will run through the day with an awards ceremony at 6 p.m.
Seniors age 55 and older are invited to enjoy the free Senior Citizens Luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Saturday in the park area. Followed by the Salsa Challenge. S.V. FFA members will be grilling it up at 5 p.m. and the Fashion Show will be starting on the park stage. The main event for the evening will have mud flying all through the grandstands. Modoc’s Extreme Mud Races are sure to give spectators a night of excitement with vehicles racing side by side to win the night’s total purse of $2,000. Festivities will end with tunes played by the “Dorris Bridge Band.”
Grab some lawn chairs and catch the parade on Sunday morning. Starting at 11 a.m. the Modoc District Fair parade will journey down Main Street, Cedarville.  SV Rotarians will be lining out floats, mounted riders and fire engines to create a magnificent affair led by Grand Marshal Clayton Oilar.

Obituaries:

Nicholas A. Contaxis
Nicholas Anthony Contaxis, age 61, of Alturas, passed away peacefully at his home in Alturas, CA on Sunday evening, August 10, 2014. His memorial service and a potluck will be held on August 22 at 10 a.m. at Veterans’ Memorial Hall, So. Main St., Alturas. A graveside service will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Oakland, CA on August 26, 10 a.m., with a celebration of life immediately following.
Nick was born in Oakland, CA on October 6, 1952 to Manuel and Cecelia Contaxis and was raised in Oakland.

Richard A. Blizzeard
Former business owner Richard A. Blizzeard, 76, of Alturas passed away at his home on August 12, 2014. Graveside services will be held in September at Northwest Veterans Cemetery in Igo, CA. Richard was born January 7, 1938 in North Carolina. His wife Waundra is among those surviving him.

Fred Valenzuela
Fred Valenzuela of Alturas, passed away August 8, 2014 at Warnerview Skilled Nursing Center, Alturas. He was born September 16, 1920 in Southern California.

Sports

Braves look to reclaim football title

Modoc’s varsity football team for 2014 brings a smile to the face of coach Shaun Wood and he’s looking at getting back on top of the Shasta Cascade League.
“You know, right now I’d say we’re looking really good,” said Wood. “Our line is outstanding and we have the backs and receivers to make a difference. If we avoid injuries, we could compete for the league and division titles.”
The early starting line has Troy Colt at center, Jarrett Royce and Tristan Osborne at guard, Ethan Conger and Allen Clark at tackle.
Last year’s starting quarterback Alan Weber returns and has Tyler Ewing at wideout, Alex Valencia at tight end, Cam Johnston at wing. Leading the running back corps will be speedster Tyler Doss, with Jordan Wade, Kaleb Duran, Cody Tiffany and Sean Anderson all in the mix.
Wood has 25 players out for the team this year and a solid group of juniors are bolstering the quality senior class.

Modoc sports gears up for opening

Modoc High School’s football team has an inter-squad scrimmage August 22 starting at 5 p.m. on the football field. Both varsity and junior varsity will participate.
The Braves first game will be at Chester August 29, with the JV starting at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow. Modoc coach Shaun Wood has over 20 players out for the team this year and expects a solid season. Coach of the JV is Dominic Budmark.
Modoc’s soccer team will open with Trinity at home Sept. 5, 5 p.m. and at Butte Valley Sept 11. New coach is Bill Hall.
The Modoc Volleyball team has tryouts this week and will open at Tulelake Sept. 2 and at the Lassen Tournament Sept. 6. Varsity coach is Wendi Lowrey and JV coach is Melinda Kyllo.
Cross Country gets underway Sept. 5 at the Bill Springhorn Invitational at Shasta College. Coach is Bill Gouveia.

Soccer team working hard early

The Modoc High School soccer team is in its second week of practice. The Braves have had two-a-day practices every other day and have been pushed to learn new things.
Coach Bill Hall is pleased with the effort and thinks that this year the Braves may surprise a few people. Hall has 21 players on the current roster and says the next week will set who will start and where that might be. This year team includes: Kayla Aarstand, Skylie Nastasia, McKenzie Blankenship, Michael Bratton, Cameron Brush, Destiny Carrillo, Orlando Castro, Brady Deaton, Bailey Doss, Mavrick Farnam, Zachery Fendler, Lyda Figuerdo, Kirsten Jones, LDesiny Lestenkof, Alexis McMaster, Ashlynn Quarles, Marissa Rogers, Kelsey Sphar, Daniel Staton, Eric Van Acker and Ramon Zavala. 
Modoc opens on Friday September 5 at home versus Trinity.

August 28, 2014

News

Modoc awarded $4.3 million in geothermal grants

Modoc County and the Modoc Joint Unified School District were notified that their applications for the California Energy Commission’s Geothermal Grant and Loan Program were approved.
Not only were they approved, but were judged the top two out of 13 applications statewide, and of the $5.8 million available, Modoc was awarded $4,285,378. Both grants were awarded at the funding level they requested.
The County’s application for geothermal exploration, economic feasibility and market analysis and distributed energy resource demonstration involving Surprise Valley Hot Springs was judged the top application and was awarded $1,129,619 while the MJUSD project for heating Alturas Schools and the swimming pool was judged number two and was awarded $3,155,759.
The County grant has a match of $369,588 and the MJUSD grant has a match of $800,000.

Money for new jail is question

While Modoc County may be looking at a swinging Piñata containing $6.5 million, it may turn up empty.
The State Board of State and Community Corrections Department has notified small counties that Tehama County will return $6,526,000 in small county set aside funds from Senate Bill 1022, Adult Local Criminal Justice Facilities. That money could be available to counties who were not funded in the grant rounds last year to build a new jail.
Modoc is on the list, but since it only applied for about 7.5 million last year to build a new facility, it has the chance to move up the ladder.
Last week, it looked like the county ahead of Modoc, Merced, wasn’t interested in the funds, but that might have changed on Tuesday. The better option for Modoc could be waiting to apply for the next full round of funding from the state.
In addition, Modoc Chief Administrative Officer Chester Robertson said he was told the state Department of Finance might not allow Tehama to return the funds.

New Students, Staff, and Programs at MJUSD

Schools in the Modoc Joint Unified School District welcomed students this week, and  Superintendent Tom O’Malley sees some positives from the start.
As of August 25, District enrollment had increased by 12, on the heels of an increase of 14 last year.  Prior to that, the District was on a downward enrollment trend, losing over 50 students at the beginning of the 2012-13 school year. 
“The fact that we are holding steady in enrollment, even increasing slightly, is a great sign for the community,” said O’Malley.  “Hopefully, this is an indicator that economically we are beginning an upswing.”
The District also welcomed new teachers, three classified workers and reinstated the Modoc Middle School Principal position.  “We are now able to focus on what matters – student learning,” O’Malley said.  “After several years of cuts, it is nice to be able to bring employees on in order to better serve our students.” 
The hirings came from recommendations during the formation of the District’s LCAP (Local Control Accountability Plan) which included over ten meetings with staff, parents, students and other stakeholders.

MNF stresses fire safety for Labor Day
           
Modoc National Forest offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 1, 2014 in observance of the Labor Day holiday and will reopen at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2.
As the Labor Day weekend approaches, forest officials remind the public that the following fire restrictions remain in effect within the Modoc National Forest until fire season ends:
· No campfires except in the South Warner Wilderness with a valid California Campfire Permit or in designated recreation sites.
· No smoking except within enclosed vehicles or buildings, in designated recreation sites or in the South Warner Wilderness.
· Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest Land.

Obituaries—

Richard Blizzeard
Richard Alphonza Lee Blizzeard, Jr. of Alturas, California, died on August 12, 2014. He was born on January 7, 1938 to Richard A. Blizzeard, Sr. and Thelma Waters in Hertford County, North Carolina.
Graveside services will be held September 16, 2014 at 11 a.m. at the National Cemetery, 11800 Gas Point Rd., Igo, CA 96047.
Condolences may be directed to the Blizzeard family at P.O. Box 1733, Alturas, CA 96101.

Fred Valenzuela
Fred Alonzo Valenzuela, a longtime resident of Likely, CA, was born September 16, 1920 in Los Angeles, CA to Alonzo and Meradith Virginia (Gagnon).
Fred passed away August 8, 2014 at Warnerview Convalescent Hospital in Alturas. He was laid to rest in the Likely Cemetery Monday, August 25, beside his wife Audrey, who preceded him in death.

Sports

Modoc opens at Chester Friday night

The Modoc Braves football teams will open against the Chester Volcanoes Friday night in Chester with the junior varsity starting at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow at 7:30 p.m.
Modoc Coach Shaun Wood said last Friday’s intra-squad scrimmage was good with the first team performing very well. He’s impressed with the talent and size and, most importantly, he said the overall attitude. He expects this year’s squad to win league and compete for the section title.
“I don’t know much about Chester,” Wood said this week. “We haven’t played them in five years and they have a new coach. I expect us to play well, but we are on the road.”
The starting line has Troy Colt at center, Jarrett Royce and Tristan Osborne at guard, Ethan Conger and Allen Clark at tackle.
Last year’s starting quarterback Alan Weber returns and has Tyler Ewing at wideout, Alex Valencia at tight end, and Cam Johnston at wing. Leading the running backs will be speedster Tyler Doss, with Jordan Wade, Kaleb Duran, Cody Tiffany and Sean Anderson all in the mix.
Wood has 25 players out for the team this year and a solid group of juniors are bolstering the quality senior class. He said he’ll have either 22 or 23 eligible for Friday night.

Modoc sports gears up for opening

Modoc High School’s football team opens against Chester, there Friday night. The junior varsity game starts at 5:50 p.m. and the varsity at 7:30 p.m.
Modoc’s soccer team will open with Trinity at home Sept. 5, 5 p.m. and at Butte Valley Sept 11. New coach is Bill Hall.
The Modoc Volleyball team will open at Tulelake Sept. 2 and at the Lassen Tournament Sept. 6. Varsity coach is Wendi Lowrey and JV coach is Melinda Kyllo.
Cross Country gets underway Sept. 5 at the Bill Springhorn Invitational at Shasta College. Coach is Bill Gouveia.

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September 4, 2014

News

Funds for new Modoc jail evaporate

The projected availability of about $6.5 million to build new or renovate the existing Modoc County Jail has evaporated. That was not unexpected.
According to Chairman of the Modoc County Board of Supervisors Jim Wills, Tehama County was convinced to keep their money instead of returning it to the state. An agreement with State Department of Finance was the key factor.
According to Wills, Tehama will now seek additional funding to build the facility it had intended.
Wills said the loss of the funding might end up being a blessing for Modoc. The County will put together a better package and compete for the next round for jail construction money. There is a substantial amount of work that needs to go into the next application.
“There’s no way we would have been able to put together a high quality package by Sept. 11 for the partial funding,” he said. When the next round of funding will be available is undetermined at this time, but we will be in the process. I feel pretty good about our chances.”

Hundreds of quakes shake SV

Many residents of Modoc County were surprised to learn on the news that Alturas had a 3.8 earthquake last week. In fact the earthquake was felt by only a few individuals in Surprise Valley.
The quake hit at 1:46 a.m. on Aug. 29. Most of the people who reported feeling the quake said that their dogs had awakened them by barking only moments before it hit.
Lakeview has also been named as a town near the epicenters of the recent quakes. It seems that Alturas and Lakeview are the closest larger towns to the recent swarm of earthquakes, which are occurring north of Vya near Calcutta Lake. From July 12 to Sept. 1, a series of 485 earthquakes have been recorded by the USGS. The quakes are primarily shallow micro-quakes with less than a dozen registering 3.0 or greater.
Gail Mahood, a Stanford University Geological and Environmental Science professor, who has conducted field studies in the Sheldon area for many years, can only speculate as to the possible cause.

Happy Camp fire source of area smoke blanket

It appears the Happy Camp Complex set of forest fires, now totaling 71,727 acres is the major cause of the heavy smoke blanket settling over Modoc. Just how heavy the smoke is depends on which way the wind is blowing.
There are also fires in southern Oregon contributing to the problem. Sunday and Monday’s skies were clear, but the smoke returned in a big way Tuesday evening and into Wednesday morning.
According to the U.S. Forest Service the Siskiyou Sheriff’s Office issued mandatory evacuations for several areas on Tuesday at 6 p.m.
The following areas are included in the order: areas on the north side of Highway 96 between Scott River Road and Seiad Creek Road, this also includes areas south of Johnny O’Neil Ridge and East of Seiad Creek Road. Residents may not be able to reenter the evacuation area until the fire danger has passed.
Sheriff’s Deputies along with the United States Forest Service went door to door to notify residents they must evacuate the area. The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Department will be patrolling 24 hours in the evacuated areas.

SV Hospital continues to progress

Progress is being made in the continuing struggle to bring Surprise Valley Hospital from the brink of certain closure.
Acting part time CEO Kevin Kramer presented an administrative services agreement between the Last Frontier and Surprise Valley Health Care Districts to the Surprise Valley Hospital Board of Directors at last week’s meeting. In the agreement two of the major duties and responsibilities to be assumed by personnel from the Last Frontier will be Human Resources and Information Technology. The cost to Surprise Valley Hospital for these services will be less than what was being previously paid to the HR & IT director who resigned recently.
Upon examination of the HR and IT departments at Surprise Valley, it was discovered that the previous administration had hired at least four people who were not authorized to work in the United States. Under the new mutual agreement all applicants will be checked to ascertain if they can legally work in the United States.
The public’s long requested policy of having drug testing of employees will be initiated.

Beetle infestation decreases at Medicine Lake

After applying a variety of treatments over the past few years to reduce the mountain pine beetle infestation at Medicine Lake Recreation Area, Modoc forest officials have surveyed and gathered data that shows the beetle outbreak has decreased significantly.
Chris Christofferson, Doublehead/Big Valley District Ranger says, “While the beetles are not gone completely, treatment to prevent further infestation will not include spraying individual trees this fall with the insecticide Carbaryl. We appreciate the public’s understanding while the MNF continues to apply short and long-term management options that will help reduce the risk of future tree mortality and maintain a forested campground area.”

Obituaries—

James Russell Chrysler
James Russell Chrysler passed away in the early morning hours of Friday, August 29, 2014 in Rocklin, CA.
Born in Portland, Oregon, Jim was the only son of Russell and Mozelle Chrysler. He would have celebrated his 85th birthday this September 14.
There will be a private interment, followed by a memorial at the Alturas Elks Lodge at 1 p.m. on Sunday, September 21.

Paulina “Debbie” Quezada
A memorial service for Paulina "Debbie" Quezada will be held at Saint Michael's Episcopal Church on Saturday, September 13 at 11 a.m.  The address is 310 North Street in Alturas, down the street from the City Hall.  All who wish to pay their respects to her are welcome. Light refreshments to follow the service.

Monte Sonnevil
A memorial service for Sigurd Monte Sonnevil will be held on September 13, 2014 at the Federated Church in Alturas.  Time to be announced. Mr. Sonnevil passed away in Brookings, OR July 22, 2014.

Sports

Modoc beats Chester in overtime, heading to Quincy Friday

Modoc’s varsity football team had to go into overtime to beat the Chester Volcanoes Friday night 20-12 and head to Quincy for another tough contest this Friday. The junior varsity starts at 5 p.m. ad the varsity follows at 7 p.m.
Modoc coach Shaun Wood said the Braves played a lousy first half, got a stern talking to at halftime and played much better in the second half, especially for the fourth period and overtime.
“It looked ugly in the first half and we were just sloppy,” Wood said. “We put together a really good fourth quarter. We started eight juniors on defense and five to six on offense. It took them a half to understand varsity football.”
Wood didn’t have a lot of negatives to say about the defense since it held Chester to six points in the first and second halves.
The Modoc game will be the first this season for Quincy.

Chester nips Modoc JV

The Chester junior varsity outlasted Modoc 14-12 in the preliminary game last Friday in Chester. They meet Quincy Friday night there.
“It came down to a lack of experience,” said coach Dominic Budmark. “We’re reviewing some things and may make some changes. We played much better in the second half, but we made some mistakes.”

Modoc opens V-ball with win

Modoc’s varsity volleyball team opened the season Tuesday with a 25-15, 25-21, 25-17 win over Tulelake. They are at the Susanville Tourney this weekend.
“The girls played great on their first game out,” said coach Wendi Lowrey. “We have some fine tuning to do, but overall I am very pleased with the way they played together. I am looking forward to a successful season.”

Modoc sports

Modoc High School’s football team at Quincy Friday night. The junior varsity game starts at 5 p.m. and the varsity at 7 p.m.
Modoc’s soccer team will open with Trinity at home Sept. 5, 5 p.m. and at Butte Valley Sept 11.
The Modoc Volleyball team is at the Lassen Tournament Sept. 6. Varsity coach is Wendi Lowrey and JV coach is Melinda Kyllo.
Cross Country gets underway Sept. 5 at the Bill Springhorn Invitational at Shasta College. Coach is Bill Gouveia.

SV Volleyball

Ladies Hornet will host the Paisley Bronco's on Tuesday, September 9. Volleyball game starts at 4:30 p.m. in the Surprise Valley High School gymnasium. Everyone is welcome, the concession stand will be open. Hornets will be in Paisley on September 20 for the Paisley Tournament.

September 11, 2014

News

County seeks info on drought effect on wells

As Modoc and the state of California endure this continuing serious drought, County officials are concerned about both agriculture and domestic well levels.
One key to keeping any control of the groundwater situation local is to insure the County can demonstrate it knows what the actual situation is and get the information it needs. Right now, part of that information is knowing where wells may be having issues, on both agriculture and domestic wells.
Sheriff Mike Poindexter and Office of Emergency Services Director A.J. McQuarrie told the Board of Supervisors Tuesday that they know there are issues, but they are not getting a lot of contacts from people reporting whether their wells are going dry or whether they’d have to drill them deeper or lower the pump.
“We need people to communicate with us,” said Poindexter. “We need data on the wells. We know some well levels are dropping, springs are dry and the creeks are dry. We just don’t have good data on wells.”
McQuarrie said local stakeholders are very concerned about the coming state groundwater regulations and stressed Modoc has the chance to keep any regulation at the local government level. But people need to communicate and cooperate.
She said people are in fear of the state putting gauges on their wells and monitoring their usage. The users don’t want the state regulating the amount of water available they use.

Pot farm busted near Lookout

In the early morning hours of September 3, the Modoc County Inter-agency Crime Enforcement Task Force executed a marijuana cultivation search warrant at a remote cabin on Scarface Road, 15 miles north of Lookout on private land.
Officers found a total of 704 marijuana plants and several pounds of dried marijuana at the location.
During the eradication serious wildlife violations were discovered including indiscriminate bait stations for small and large game.  In one area of the operation, two large animal water troughs were located.  One trough contained fresh water and the second contained up to 50 gallons of automotive anti-freeze. Multiple loaded firearms were located. 
One suspect, who was armed with a rifle, was observed approaching the law enforcement serving the search warrant at the living area complex. The suspect disarmed himself and surrendered without incident when confronted by law enforcement personnel. 

SVE confab a full house

Saturday’s 76th Annual Surprise Valley Electrification Corp. luncheon held interesting surprises for its members.
After six years of building, the co-op’s geothermal electrical power plant is up and generating electricity. Lynn Culp, Member Service Manager, presented a slide show of the work done on the plant from the initial drilling to throwing the switch. He explained that SVE is able to sell the power to other utilities at a better rate than the co-op can buy Bonneville power. At some time in the future, if it becomes necessary, SVE could use the geothermal power itself.
Five students from area high schools vying for two $500 scholarships, gave speeches telling why they like growing up in a rural area. Tyler Ewing, Kirsten Jones, and Kelsey Sphar of Modoc High, Hank Linker and Ivan Coronado of Surprise Valley High, competed.
Just before the drawing of the grand prize, the winners were to be announced. Tension and excitement grew as the students were called up on stage before the co-op members for the ceremony. It was then announced that all five contestants would receive scholarships.
The winner of the $500 shopping spree was Ray Gorzell of Surprise Valley.

Experimental Stewardship Steering Committee to meet in Cedarville

The Modoc-Washoe Experimental Stewardship Steering Committee will discuss various rangeland management topics when it meets Thursday, Sept. 18, at 9 a.m., at the Bureau of Land Management Surprise Field Office, 602 Cressler St., in Cedarville.
Items for the morning session include reports from member agencies and a discussion about resting lands from livestock grazing after vegetation treatments.
Beginning at 1 p.m. the committee will hear a reports on the Modoc National Forest’s Lassen 15 Project, management planning for sage grouse conservation, drought impacts and degraded sagebrush.
Also on the afternoon agenda are discussions about wild horse management and local goals for the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Obituaries—

Sigurd Sonnevil
A memorial service for Sigurd Monte Sonnevil will be held on September 13, 2014 at 2 p.m. at the Federated Church in Alturas.
Mr. Sonnevil passed away in Brookings, OR on July 22, 2014. He is survived by two brothers Chris and Jerry; two sons, Gary and wife Colleen of Kenai, Alaska and and wife Dorothy of Gold Beach, Oregon; two grandchildren, Rilea and Kyle, who are both students at Oregon State University.

Paulina “Debbie” Quezada
A memorial service for Paulina “Debbie” Quezada will be held at Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church on Saturday, September 13 at 11 a.m.  The address is 310 North Street in Alturas, down the street from the City Hall.  All who wish to pay their respects to her are welcome. Light refreshments to follow the service.

Jim Chrysler
A Memorial service for Jim Chrysler will be held at the Alturas Elks Lodge on Sunday, September 21 at 1 p.m. Friends and family are invited to share the good times and memories of Jim’s life. Finger foods will be provided.
Jim is survived by his sister Joanna Chrysler of Alturas and his four children: Lance James Chrysler (Paulette) of Alturas, CA; Kirk Jerome Chrysler of Arvada, CO; Cary Joe Chrysler of Alturas, CA and Tara Mozelle Chrysler, Denver, CO and Jean Floratos, his sweetheart; grandchildren Lisa Chrysler, Janice Chrysler-Stone, Brandi Hansen, Nichole Chrysler, Danielle Chrysler-Herman, Justin Chrysler, Jeremy Chrysler, Jessica Chrysler, Joseph Thompson, Brent Dolby, Cameo Thomason, Trevor Freeman, Jared Freeman and many great and great-great grandchildren.

Sports

Modoc drops Quincy 26-7; heads to Lost River

Modoc’s varsity football team beat Quincy 26-7 Friday night and heads to Lost River tomorrow to finish out a three game road stint.
“We played much better and I’m pleased with where we are now,” said coach Shaun Wood. “We still have some work to do, but overall, I’m happy. Lost River is always tough and they have a solid program. It’ll be a good test for us.”
Neither team scored in the opening period at Quincy, but Quincy took a 7-6 lead into the halftime talks. The Braves erupted in the third period, scoring 20 points in the first five minutes. Tyler Ewing scored on a pass play, then intercepted a Trojan pass on the next series and took it into the end zone. Jordan Wade scored on a run to give the Braves a 26-7 lead going into the final quarter. Neither team scored in the fourth.

Young Braves rout Quincy 50-0

While Modoc’s junior varsity football lost a close one to Chester to open the season, they left no doubt they can play with a 50-0 win over Quincy Friday night in Quincy.
“We had a really good week of practice and the kids worked hard all week,” said coach Dominic Budmark. “We expect Lost River to be a test this week, but we’re confident.”
The Braves scored 14 points in the first period at Quincy, added 16 in the second, 14 in the third and six in the fourth period.

Volleyball does well at Susanville; heads to Lakeview

The Modoc volleyball team did well in the Susanville Tournament last weekend and heads to the Lakeview Invite this weekend.
Monday night they lost to Lakeview here 25-21, 25-18 and 25-20. Modoc also split with North Tahoe, 22-25 and 25-17. The Braves beat Westwood 25-19 and 25-17. Modoc also topped Greenville 25-17 and 25-20. Modoc lost to Anderson 25-23, 11-25 and 10-15. Modoc’s junior varsity beat Lakeview Monday 25-21 and 25-23. Kylee Britton Ward and Mattea Wilson had five kills each and Angeline Ewing had four. Ward served eight aces and Haley Valena had six.
In Lassen, the JVs split with Lassen 21-25 and 25-17; lost to Portola 25-12, 25-16 and 25-23, 25-16; split with Lassen 27-26, 18-25; and beat Westwood 25-12, 25-16.

MHS Cross Country team runs in Redding

The Modoc Braves Cross Country Team traveled to the campus of Shasta College in Redding on Friday, September 5 for the Ninth annual Bill Springhorn Classic.
Freshman Taryn Burns had an outstanding performance in the women’s junior varsity division, finishing fourth overall with a time of 14:21 in the two-mile event, setting a school record for the meet replacing senior Madelyn Binning’s time of 14:53 established in 2011.
Sophomore Ruben Martinez also had an excellent outing finishing second overall in the men’s junior varsity two-mile event, cutting five minutes and 31 seconds off last year’s time for the meet.

September 18, 2014

News

Regional hospitals explore collaboration

In recent weeks, the Boards of Directors at Modoc Medical Center (MMC), Surprise Valley Health Care District (SVHCD), and Lake Health District (LHD) have all given their leadership teams authority to explore forming a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) that would help the facilities with some regional decisions.
In addition to the three facilities listed above, Mayers Memorial Hospital District (MMHD) has expressed interest in also joining the collaborative effort.
While the effort to form a JPA is not developed at this time, there are a number of items that the JPA could do for the entire region.  Among some of the items that have been discussed as possible functions of the JPA are forming an independent provider group that could help recruit providers to the region and that could be shared between the facilities, analyzing patient migration patterns to see if any of the healthcare services that people seek in other areas could be provided within the region, sharing common electronic medical records systems, sharing common staff for support services, and other items that could benefit all entities that participate in the effort.
There will be a public meeting on September 25, 2014 at the Niles Hotel in Alturas starting at 6 p.m., during which board members from MMHD, SVHCD, LHD, and MMC will participate in a workshop to discuss the JPA effort with key professionals and the public. 

City deer, a problem needing solution

The deer herds in the Alturas City limits are getting out of hand, and the City Council was asked Tuesday afternoon to address the issue.
Alturas resident Stacey Hafen told the Council they first had to identify the deer problem and realize it is a problem. She opined that most of the deer now residing in the City limits have been born in the city and don’t intend to leave.
“I was born and raised here and I don’t remember seeing deer in town and now I can’t tell you how many we have,” she said. “Most of them were born in the neighborhoods and I’m seeing more does with twins or triplets this year.”
Hafen said she did not have a solution at hand, but felt there needed to be public involvement and discussion and she came to the Council to get that started.
“I’m sick and tired of deer eating my flowers,” she said. “In addition, they’re becoming more aggressive, one person’s dog was killed in her back yard. They’re not afraid of people or dogs. It might help if residents stop feeding them.”

Alturas Mill ‘on the verge’ of opening

Warner Mountain Lumber owner John Lance told the Alturas City Council Tuesday that the mill is “on the verge” of opening.
He admitted they’ve been predicting that for several months, but insured the Council that the saws will be running soon. He said some computer issues have delayed the opening while the kinks are worked out.
“We did increase the size of the mill and that’s made the project bigger,” Lance said. “We’re getting real close and things are going well and we’re about to go on line soon. All the power is in and we have had the mill running, we just have to make some adjustments.”
There is still about a half-million board feet of logs decked at the mill site. Most of the logs at the mill have come off the Modoc National Forest, from a sale off Loveness Road.

Man guilty of indecent exposure

Last week a Modoc County Superior Court jury returned a guilty verdict against Ignacio Quintana in an indecent exposure case and he will be sentenced Nov. 18.
According to Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk, Quintana is facing up to a year in County Jail and some probation time.
“The incident occurred June 5, 2013, on the corner of Washington and High Streets in Cedarville, across the street from the Surprise Valley Elementary School,” Funk said. “Mr. Quintana was seen naked and masturbating in his open doorway at about 5:00 p.m. There were children present on the playground across the street from his house and a teacher driving home from school saw the defendant in his doorway and immediately stopped and called other teachers who came and helped stand guard outside the residence to insure the defendant would not leave.  The teacher also called 911.”

Obituaries

Robert Allen Ropp
Robert Allen Ropp of Magalia, CA., passed away on August 31, 2014 on his 85th birthday.
Robert was born in Dyersburg, Tennessee and grew up in various towns in Wisconsin
A memorial service will be held at 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct.17 at the Paradise United Methodist Church, 6722 Clark Road, Paradise, CA.
A Celebration of Life Gathering and Potluck will be held on Sunday, Oct. 19 at the Federated Community Church in Alturas, CA, following the church service.
Donations may be made to Blue Lake Youth Camp c/o of the Federated Community Church, PO Box 1807 Alturas, CA 96101 or to the Paradise United Methodist Church, Paradise, CA.

Dorothy L. Strom
Dorothy Laura Strom, age 97, passed away August 18, 2014 in Alturas, CA.
Dorothy was one of five children born to Charles Barnstein, MD and Alma (Hansen) Barnstein in Newton, Manitowoc, Wisconsin on Sept. 11, 1917. Burial was at Long Tree Cemetery, Hayward, CA.

Joe Bowden
Joe Bowden was born January 20, 1928 to Joseph and Mary Bowden in Dorris, CA. Joe passed away at peace on Saturday, August 30, 2014, while visiting his daughter.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, Sept. 13 at Eastwood Baptist Church in Medford, OR. Contributions may be made to Rainbow Acres, Attn. Dawn Jones, 2120 W. Reservation Loop Rd., Camp Verde, AZ 86322.

Jim Chrysler
A memorial service for Jim Chrysler will be held at the Alturas Elks Lodge on Sunday, September 21 at 1 p.m. Friends and family are invited to share the good times and memories of Jim’s life. Finger foods will be provided.

Sports

Braves survive flag fest in Lost River

Yellow flags were flying all over the place during the Modoc Braves-Lost River game Friday night at Lost River. And the most critical penalties came on the Braves’ big plays, including a 60-yard touchdown that got called back.
Still, Modoc beat the Raiders 20-13. “It should have been 60-7,” said coach Shaun Wood. “The only time they stopped us was on penalties. But we survived it and played well.”
The Braves face a strong Trinity team this Friday night in their home opener. Wood said Trinity brings in one of the top running backs in the north section, but feels his Braves will be up to the challenge, especially coming home after three road games to start the season.

JV whip Lost River

Modoc’s junior varsity football team used a strong defense and productive running game to beat the Lost River squad 21-8 Friday. They play host to Trinity here tomorrow.
The Braves and Lost River were knotted at 8-8 in the first period but the Braves added 13 in the second period and held the Raiders scoreless the rest of the way.

Modoc Soccer blanked by Butte Valley

The Butte Valley soccer team beat Modoc 3-0 last Thursday, but Modoc had plenty of chances to score. Modoc heads to Tulelake Today.
“We played great and out shot Butte Valley,” said coach Bill Hall. “We had possession about 70 percent of the time. We could not win the ball on counter attacks and had trouble just putting the ball into the net. We had trouble judging offsides. All of these are fixable.”

Volleyball loses 3 in Lakeview

Modoc’s Volleyball team won one match and lost three in the Lakeview Tournament last weekend. They travel to the Durham tourney this weekend.
Burns beat the Braves 10-25 and 11-25. The Braves beat Tulelake 25-18, 25-19.
Hosanna Christian beat Modoc 18-25; 21-25 and Mountain View beat Modoc 21-25 and 26-24.

September 25, 2014

News

‘Cloudaggedon’ rolls into Surprise Valley

Many residents of Surprise Valley became concerned late last Wednesday afternoon when they looked to the sky. Initial descriptions all contained the words: scary, sinister, frightening, spooky, weird, strange, surreal and Armageddon-like, only later were the words beautiful, majestic and awesome added.
To the west was a clear azure color with wisps of white clouds dotting the sky, reminiscent of a bright watercolor painting. To the east side of the valley a low black cloud running the length of the valley suddenly appeared with no discernible cause.
Observers in Fort Bidwell thought Cedarville was on fire, residents of Cedarville thought Eagleville was on fire. To some, it seemed that it was the beginning of the end, of everything. Many were frightened or uneasy, most were puzzled as to what was happening.
It appears from satellite photos that the King fire burning east of Sacramento in the Pollock Pines community caused a plume of smoke to move north to the area, where the smoke was caught in the mountain wave effect between the Warner Mountains and the Hays Mountains.

Big Valley will make second run at ALS district

The Big Valley Ambulance Committee will make a second run at establishing and funding an Advanced Life Support district with a special election in the spring.
On Tuesday, Clinton Davis, the co-Chair of the Big Valley EMS Working Group, requested support from the County to give effort and second chance. He explained that while forming the District passed in June, the tax-funding portion failed by only 44 votes. An unfunded district is not desirable or in most cases financially feasible.
In the June election, the BV ambulance Cascades Community Services District was favored by 58.03 percent of the Modoc vote and the funding measure by 56.62 percent. In Lassen County, the district was favored by 60.61 percent of the vote, and the funding measure by 59.83 percent of the vote. The funding measure failed since it needed a two- thirds vote. The Lassen County Bieber area precinct vote favored funding by 67 percent of the voters.
“We need to secure ALS service for the Big Valley area,” Davis told Supervisors. The group had spent an hour last week asking and receiving support from the Lassen County Board of Supervisors. “We want to put together a program that will pass.”

Area hospitals meet tonight on JPA

A public meeting September 25, 2014 at the Niles Hotel in Alturas starting at 6 p.m. could bring changes and collaboration for four area hospital districts.
Hospital District Board members from Mayers Memorial Hospital District, Fall River, Surprise Valley Health Care District, Lake Health District, Lakeview, and Modoc Medical Center will participate in a workshop to discuss a Joint Powers Agreement effort with key professionals and the public. 
They will explore forming a JPA that would help the facilities with some regional decisions.

Jobless rate falls to 8.2%

The August unemployment rate in Modoc County dropped to 8.2 percent, down from July’s 8.7 percent, according to the California Employment Development Department.
According to EDD, the civilian labor force numbered 3,720 in August, that’s down substantially from the same month last year of 3,940. This year there were 3,410 people employed and 310 claiming unemployment. Last August there were 3,550 employed and 390 unemployed.
Losing 140 employees, even at minimum wage amounts to a loss of $50,400 in wages per month for the county.
Modoc’s 8.2 percent jobless rate ranks it 32nd out of the state’s 58 counties for highest unemployment. Siskiyou ranks 42nd at 9.2 percent and Lassen ranks 38th at 8.6 percent.

Obituaries—

Wanda Tignor
Wanda Rosalind Tignor was born Wanda Rosalind Walker on September 6, 1925 in Golden Valley, North Dakota. Wanda Rosalind Walker Tignor passed peacefully on August 25, 2014 in Maui. She will join her husband and daughter Connie at the Alturas Cemetery during the summer of 2015.

Elvy Bunyard
Elvy Delos Bunyard passed away September 18, 2014 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Services will be held October 4 at 11 a.m. graveside at the Alturas Cemetery.
Elvy was born to J.E. (Elvy) and Susan Toney Bunyard, April 11, 1928, in Lake City, California. Obituary to follow October 2.

Sports

Modoc falls to Trinity 30-20

The Trinity Wolves opened last Friday’s varsity football game with an 80-yard touchdown run on its first play, then scored a second touchdown with only four minutes off the clock in the first period.
Modoc trailed 16-0 and Modoc Coach Shaun Wood was a bit concerned, if not shocked. The Braves added a touchdown in the second period and Trinity then scored on a 61-yard run to close out the first half with a 24-8 lead.
Modoc heads to Etna Friday night to open the Shasta Cascade League season. Wood expects the Lions to be a quality team, but feels his Braves should be able to correct the Trinity game miscues and get back on track.

Wolves shut out Modoc JV

Modoc’s junior varsity team just couldn’t get the offense on track against Trinity Friday night, losing 21-0. They meet a good Etna squad Friday in Etna.
Trinity scored seven in the first, seven in the second and seven in the third for the win. Modoc could not find the endzone.Tanner Cook carried the ball eight times for 44 yards and caught the one pass. Collin Martin rushed three times for 29 yards and Schluter one for 10.
Budmark is looking for a tough game at Etna. They beat Chester 34-8, while Modoc lost to Chester 14-12.

Modoc plays at Durham Tourney

Modoc’s volleyball team saw plenty of action at the Durham tournament last weekend, winning a few and losing several. They have Fall River here Sept. 25.
The Braves lost the opening game to Durham 15-25, 12-25. Orland won the second game 16-25 and 21-25. Gridley beat Modoc in the third game 23-25, 25-22 and 15-13.
Modoc then beat Las Plumas 25-17, 21-25 and 15-11. The Braves beat Providence 25-18 and 25-20. Gridley beat the Braves 17-25, 17-25. Orland beat Modoc 16-25, 17-25. The Braves beat Las Plumas 25-15 and 25-22. Modoc beat Providence 25-17 and 25-20.

Tulelake soccer beats Modoc 7-0

Modoc’s soccer team fell victim to Tulelake's experience 7-0 last week and hosts Fall River Sept. 25 and Trinity Sept. 27.
Modoc lost against Weed Tuesday 3-1. Michael Bratton scored the first goal of the season and kept Modoc in the game through 70 minutes. Weed scored the first two goals of the game and led 2-0 before Bratton scored.
Modoc plays at home on Thursday against Fall River at 5 p.m. at the Alturas Elementary soccer field and on Saturday against Trinity with a start time of 2 p.m.

Cross County runners improve

Modoc’s Cross Country team had a good outing Friday at the Mt. Shasta Invite.
The top finisher in the event was girls’ junior varsity runner Taryn Burns who was first in the 2.35-mile race in a time of 17:52.
The varsity girls improved with Stephanie Gouveia and Casey Burns finishing 16 and 17 respectively. Madelyn Binning finished at 26 and Cindy Cohen at 31.
Cameron McCarty was the only boy running for Modoc and ran well. He had improved his time earlier this month by 5:31 and at Mt. Shasta trimmed that by another 3:38.
Modoc heads to Foothill Friday and then to the Henley Invitational Sept. 30.

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October 2, 2014

News

Alturas Tribe to reopen Desert Rose Casino

On Tuesday, the General Council of the Alturas Indian Rancheria met at the Alturas Indian Rancheria Event Center in Alturas, California to overturn the alleged unlawful actions of Wendy Del Rosa and non-Tribal members and previously terminated employees, Wayne Smith and Creig Marcus, who caused the temporary closure of the Tribe’s Desert Rose Casino.
On Monday, Wendy Del Rosa, Wayne Smith and Creig Marcus raided the Desert Rose Casino and removed all the cash, which included Tribal funds, player funds and funds being paid to the Internal Revenue Service. This matter has been turned over to the appropriate authorities for investigation and prosecution.
Despite these alleged unlawful actions, the Alturas General Council regained control of the Desert Rose Casino within hours and secured the employees’ employment and is in the process re-opening the Desert Rose Casino.

Big weekend lines up for Mt. Bidwell Celebration

A weekend of special demonstrations, activities, conversations, a parade and food will come together for the Mt. Bidwell California Indian Day Celebration on October 4– 5 in Ft. Bidwell. The event will honor the Fort Bidwell Indian Boarding School Elders. All events are open to the public.
Special guests “Miss Indian World,” Taylor Thomas of the Shoshone Bannock Tribe in Fort Hall, ID, “Hall of Fame Flintknapper” Emory Coons of the Cherokee/Chocktaw Tribes from Burns, OR and California Traditional Dancers of the Miwok and Maidu Tribes are planning to attend.
Wallace Clark, Maidu, will demonstrate how to create Abalone pendants.
Breakfast will be served from 7 a.m.- 8 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday for $5 per person in the Ft. Bidwell Gymnasium. Vendors may set-up at 7 a.m. on Saturday at the Gymnasium. Parade prep will be at organizer Anita Williams' place at 8 a.m.

West Nile found in Modoc horse

A horse exhibiting neurologic symptoms in the Alturas area was examined last week by Modoc Veterinary Center in the Alturas area. Testing was performed and the horse was found to be positive for the West Nile Virus.
While there are no specific treatments for West Nile Virus, conservative treatment was initiated and the horse has responded.
West Nile Virus is spread by mosquitoes. Birds are the intermediate host and develop large numbers of the virus. A mosquito then takes a blood meal from the bird and can then carry the infection to the horse.
If residents have not done so this year or it has been more than six months, local veterinarians recommend giving horses the West Nile Virus vaccine.
If there are any questions, please feel free to call Modoc Veterinary Center at 530-233-4156.

City holds hearing on zoning ordinance

The Alturas Planning Commission will hold its first public hearing on the new draft zoning ordinance on October 8, 2014 at 5:30 p.m. at the City Administrative Office. 
All written comments received during the public review period will be presented to the Planning Commission for their consideration at that time and public comment will be accepted.
Copies of the ordinance are available at City Hall or at the Alturas Branch Library. It can also be accessed on the web at www.cityofalturasplanning.blogspot.com.
The zoning ordinance covers several issues that should be of interest to residents, all the way from a downtown historical district, to signage, special considerations for business locations, raising animals, housing restrictions and density issues and much more.

Refuge drought relays waterfowl season

The Modoc National Wildlife has delayed the opening of the waterfowl hunting season because of the drought.
The season was supposed to open Oct. 4, but has been pushed back to Oct. 18-19. Refuge managers say there is more water coming from the South Fork of the Pit River now allowing for flooding habitat within the hunting area of the refuge.
The increased water and the projected time to fill enough wetlands in the sanctuary portion of the refuge is the basis of opening on Oct. 18.
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday hunting will being on Oct. 21.

Obituaries –

John Wall
John Lynn Wall was born on March 21, 1947 in San Francisco. He was adopted as a small infant by Tommie and Didge Wall. He was raised on the Wall Ranch in Pine Creek. His great grandfather John Wall was one of the early settlers in this area.
He passed away in Alturas on Sept. 29, 2014 at the age of 67.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. in the Elk’s Hall; a potluck will follow. Any contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

Leana Conner
All friends are welcome to a potluck memorial gathering for Leana Joyce Conner of Lake City, CA on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 5 p.m. at the Modoc Fairgrounds Four Seasons building, Cedarville. Leana passed away unexpectedly on September 22, 2014 while at Vanderbilt University Hospital’s Cancer Treatment Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted and may be sent to Washington Federal-Lakeview Branch, 125 N. “E” Street, Lakeview, OR 97630. Please make checks out to either Josh Conner or Mindy Weidner and write in the memo box “Leana Conner Memorial.” Funds will be directed to a charity which can help others.

Elvy Bunyard
Elvy Delos Bunyard passed away September 18, 2014 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Services will be held October 4 at 11 a.m. graveside at the Alturas Cemetery.
Elvy was born to J.E. (Elvy) and Susan Toney Bunyard, April 11, 1928, in Lake City, California. He married Opal Elizebeth Turpin, daughter of Clifton and Zelda (Kirk) Turpin on November 6, 1951.
The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at the LDS hospital, Bone Marrow Transplant Unit and the staff at the Vallejo Homehealth Services for the special and loving care of Elvy.

Robert Garcia
Robert Garcia, 29, of Alturas, CA died September 16, 2014 in Alturas. Robert was a medical assistant for the Canby Clinic. He was born January 6, 1985 in Los Angeles, CA to Marino and Delfina Garcia. Inurnment was at San Fernando Mission Cemetery at noon on September 26, 2014.

Sports

Modoc escapes Etna; Lakeview Friday

Note: Lakeview comes to Modoc Friday night although they have sustained some injuries and will have fewer players. The Modoc JV game will start ay 5:30 p.m., but the game will only be one half and the varsity will be a full game starting right after the JV is over. That makes the varsity game closer to a 6:30 or 7 p.m. start.
Modoc’s varsity football team had the Etna game in hand at 12-0 after three periods, but mistakes in the fourth quarter found the Lions up 15-12 with five minutes left.
The Braves mounted a late drive that put them up 18-15 for the win. “We dodged a bullet,” said Coach Shaun Wood. “We gave them short fields on our mistakes twice and they took advantage. But we were able to march down the field at the end to win.”
Those short fields came on mistakes by Modoc, one on a penalty and another on a punt fumble in the Modoc end.
Modoc’s defense played very well all game, limiting Etna to seven first downs on just 13 yards passing and 150 yards rushing.

Modoc splits in league play

Modoc’s varsity volleyball team split in Shasta Cascade League action last week, beating Weed and losing to Fall River.
Fall River beat Modoc in four, 19-25, 25-19, 21-25 and 23-25.
The Braves beat Weed 25-22, 25-19, 23-25 and 27-25.

Soccer team beats Etna

Modoc Soccer won its first game on the road beating Etna 5-3. Modoc got on the board first scoring and continued to put pressure on Etna for most of the half. Etna scored with six minutes to go in the half to tie it going into intermission. Modoc came out with the high pressure offense again countering any Etna attack.
Modoc travels to Trinity with the full squad on Friday.

Modoc falls to Etna; Lakview comes to town

Modoc’s junior varsity football team lost to the Etna Lions 22-8 in Etna Friday night. They face Lakeview here Friday, with game time at 5:30 p.m.
The Braves led Etna 8-0 in the first, but were down 14-8 at halftime and 22-8 after three.
Coach Dominic Budmark felt the team had the ability and talent to win, but just failed to handle the situation well.
Budmark believes the team can get back on track against Lakeview Friday night and hopefully play up to its potential.

Cross Country running strong

The Braves Cross Country team has been busy this week with two meets scheduled within four days. They traveled to Foothill High School in Palo Cedro last Friday to participate in the Cougar Invitational.
Freshman Taryn Burns continued her recent success with a third place finish in the women’s JV 1.9 mile race with an outstanding time of 12:36. Senior Stephanie Gouveia led the women’s varsity squad with a seventh place finish at 22:45 just inching out senior, Casey Burns in eighth with a time of 22:45.50.
The Henley Invitational in Klamath Falls Oregon was on Tuesday. The Braves finished in second place in the team division with a total of 43 points. Henley finished in first with a score of 35 points.
“Our girls proved they are ready to challenge at the varsity level,” said head coach Bill Gouveia. “I’m very proud of their progress.”
The team travels to West Valley High School on Friday, October 10.

October 9, 2014

News

Fire restrictions lifted on MNF
           
Due to lower temperatures, higher humidity, and increased fuel moisture, fire restrictions were lifted for the Modoc National Forest as of Friday, October 3, 2014.
Visitors with a valid California Campfire Permit will once again be able to have campfires outside of designated recreation sites, including the wilderness. The fire restrictions went into effect July 1 because of predicted high fire danger and extended hot, dry weather.
 For more information, call Punky Moore, Public Affairs Officer, (530) 233-8713. 

County seeks Groundwater Committee members

The County Board of Supervisors is now seeking members for the newly established Groundwater Resources Advisory Committee, GRAC,with the first organizational meeting scheduled October 31.
The GRAC will have 11 county residents appointed by the Board of Supervisors representing diverse interests from a geographical perspective and interest-based perspective including, but not limited to, agricultural, environmental and community interests.
The County states that a familiarity with water resources is desired but not required.  Members should have demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others of differing viewpoints and achieve good faith compromise. When possible, membership priority shall be given to those residing within State designated groundwater basins, or surrounding watershed basins.
Accoring to the County, the GRAC members shall collectively address the following requirements (individual members may fulfill more than one requirement):
A. At least one member shall be from each one of the five County Board of Supervisors Districts.           
B.  At least one member shall be from one each of the following groundwater basins: Surprise Valley, Goose Lake Valley, Alturas Groundwater Basin, Big Valley Groundwater Basin and Upper Klamath Basin
C. At least one member shall be from the City of Alturas
D. At least two members should work in agriculture and/or represent agricultural interests; and
E. At least two members should represent property rights organizations,  environmental organizations, or other community-based organizations.
F. At least one member should be a Tribal Representative.
For more information on the application, contact Chester Robertson, CAO, Modoc County at 204 South Court Street, or call 530-233-7660.

City urges ‘yes’ vote on mosquito program

The City of Alturas is urging residents to vote “Yes” November 4 on continuing a mosquito abatement program, costing just $1.50 per water meter per month.
The Measure Z funding ensures spraying about twice a week in the very early morning during mosquito season. Without the funding, there would be no mosquito spraying.
The City points out that in 2014, 181 confirmed human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in California with eight deaths. Last week, Modoc reported a horse infected with West Nile.

Lava Beds National Monument Plans Prescribed Fire

Lava Beds National Monument plans to implement the Post Office Prescribed Fire between October and December if conditions become favorable.  The 58-acre unit is primarily a grass-shrubland, juniper woodland mix. 
The brush around the few Ponderosa pine in the unit will be thinned to reduce their risk of burning.  Last treated in 1995, this prescribed fire mimics the 20 to 50 year cycle of naturally occurring fire and limits the possibility of spread outside the unit.  It  also reduces the risk of structure loss in the event of a wildfire by removing accumulated hazardous wildland fuels.
 This prescribed fire is located adjacent to the campground, visitor center and employee housing area in the monument.  Closures of portions of the campground and Three Sisters Trail will be temporarily implemented for public safety.
For additional information, call Lava Beds’ Fire Management Officer at 530-667-8122.

Sports

Braves trounce Honkers; take week off

Modoc’s varsity football team had no trouble beating the Lakeview Honkers here Friday night, 45-12. The have a bye this week and then face Weed for Homecoming on Oct. 17.
It’s probable the league title will be on the line when Modoc and Fall River meet the last game of the regular season Nov. 7 at Fall River. The Bulldogs beat Illinois Valley 54-27 last Friday. So far this year, Fall River is averaging 49.8 points per game while giving up an average of only 19 points a game.
But the Braves still have to get through Weed, Burney and Mt. Shasta before taking the shot at Fall River.
Modoc JVs win easily
Modoc’s junior varsity, while only getting to half a game did well, beating Lakeview 20-18. Modoc led 20-6 in the opening period and added eight in the second. Lakeview scored six in the first and eight in the second. The game was shortened to just one-half because Lakeview was down on players.

Braves win in Volleyball

Modoc’s varsity volleyball team beat Trinity in five games 12-25, 25-21, 12-25, 25-18 and 15-11.
The Braves then beat Burney 25-21, 25-20, 23-25 and 25-13. Modoc lost to Etna 18-25, 28-26, 25-19, 23-25 and 11-15.
Modoc’s junior varsity volleyball team split in league action over the week.
They beat Etna in the games 27-25,12-25 and 15-7.The Braves lost to Trinity 25-19 and 25-19. Modoc beat Burney 25-8 and 26-24 Tuesday. Wilson had three kills while Ward-Britton and Angie Hall each had two. Haley Valena had seven aces.

Modoc soccer making strides

The Modoc Soccer team lost Friday in Trinity 5-1, but played much better, according to coach Bill Hall.
 “We played our most exciting and complete game against heavily favored Butte Valley,” Hall said.
Modoc trailed 1-0 with five minutes to go in the half. The Braves had missed on numerous opportunities and controlled the ball but could not capitalize. Newcomer Lyda Figuerado came into the game and tapped in a cross to tie the score. In the second half Butte Valley jumped on Modoc and quickly pushed the score to 3-1.

Watch AMX track action this weekend

Join riders and spectators for Rounds 11 and 12 of racing with Modoc Motorsports Association this Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11 and 12 at the track located at the far end of West Fourth St., Alturas. Gates open at 6 a.m., signups are from 6:30 a.m. - 8:00 a.m. Practice starts at 8:30 with racing to follow. This month, MMA will present a special tutu race to raise awareness of Down Syndrome. All proceeds from the tutu race will benefit Curtis Scofield of Alturas. 

October 16, 2014

News

Human remains found near Modoc Landfill

An individual hiking near the intersection of County Road 54 (Centerville Road) and County Road 60 (backroad to Likely) Tuesday discovered human remains about 100 to 150 yards from the road.
According to Undersheriff Ken Richardson, the skeletal remains appear to have been in the area for several years. The remains were still in a sleeping bag, in what appears to have been a camping area, said Richardson.
Sheriff Mike Poindexter said the office was fortunate enough to have Lorna C. Pierce, PhD. from the Santa Clara County Medical Examiners Office, along with two canine's certified in human remains detection in the neighborhood to help with the collection and processing of those remains.  

Locken resigns Auditor position

Modoc County Auditor-Recorder, County Clerk and Elections Officer Darcy Locken has resigned her position effective Oct. 31, according to Chairman of the Board of Supervisors Jim Wills.
Her resignation has been accepted by the Board. Locken lost the June election to Stephanie Wellemeyer, would normally have taken the seat in January. She will now assume those duties on November 1.

Desert Rose Casino closed, still part of Tribal conflict

The Desert Rose Casino was re-opened and running, but the tribal conflict that resulted in its partial closure is still unresolved and both sides are claiming they are legally in the right.
On Friday, Modoc Superior Court Judge Fritz Barclay issued a temporary restraining order in favor of Alturas Rancheria Tribal Administrator Wayne Smith against Alturas Rancheria Tribal Co-Chair Darren Rose. That TRO orders Rose to stay away from the Desert Rose Casino and Tribal Offices. Those are Smith’s place of work. The TRO is in effect until a hearing in Modoc Superior Court Oct. 27, 10 a.m. when more evidence will be presented.
That TRO meant that Wendy Del Rosa resumed management of the Casino Tuesday, as the other co-chair of the Alturas Rancheria. Law enforcement here is using the April 2014 election results as its guide to who is empowered by the tribe, which recognizes Rose and Wendy Del Rosa as the business committee.
Tuesday night employees of the casino apparently staged an organized boycott and failed to show up for work. The Casino was closed early. They were expected and welcome to come to work, Wendy Del Rosa said. However, the Casino remained closed Wednesday and it was unclear whether it would be open today because of the work stoppage.

Groundwater Committee members need apply

Anyone interested in serving on the newly established County Groundwater Resources Advisory Committee, GRAC, needs to make application soon.
The first organizational meeting is scheduled October 31.
The GRAC will have 11 county residents appointed by the Board of Supervisors representing diverse interests from a geographical perspective and interest-based perspective including, but not limited to, agricultural, environmental and community interests.
The County states that a familiarity with water resources is desired but not required.  Members should have demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others of differing viewpoints and achieve good faith compromise. When possible, membership priority shall be given to those residing within State designated groundwater basins, or surrounding watershed basins.
For more information on the application, contact Chester Robertson, CAO, Modoc County at 204 South Court Street, or call 530-233-7660.

Obituaries—

Rev. Bob Ropp
A memorial service to thank God for the life and ministry of the Rev. Bob Ropp will be held on Sunday, October 19, 11:00 a.m., at the Federated Community Church (307 E. 1st Street), Alturas. This will be followed by a Potluck in the Fellowship Hall of the church.
This service and fellowship will be in place of the Federated usual worship service. Rev. Ropp served the Federated Church and the community for over 26 years.
Rev. Ropp is survived by his son David Ropp, his daughter Heather and son-in-law Richard Lund, grandchildren Aaron Ropp and Natalie, Paige and Ian Lund and several nieces and nephews and former sister-in-law Tama Czarnecki.
Rev. Ropp of Magalia, CA., passed away on August 31, 2014 on his 85th birthday. Donations may be made to Blue Lake Youth Camp c/o of the Federated Community Church, PO Box 1807, Alturas, CA 96101 or to the Paradise United Methodist Church, Paradise, CA.
Please call the church at (530) 233-2718 with any questions.

John Wall
A memorial service for John Wall will be held on Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. in the Alturas Elk’s Hall. A potluck will follow.
Any contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.
John passed away in Alturas on Sept. 29, 2014, at the age of 67.

Diane Odell
Diane Jane Odell of Alturas passed peacefully on October 10, 2014, in Alturas, CA after fighting ovarian cancer. She will be missed by many family and friends. Born Diane Jane McGraw in Alluwe, Oklahoma on July 25, 1948, she was the last of her immediate family, as she was preceded in death by her parents and siblings.
Survived by her children Michael Diehl of Sacramento, CA; Tammie Plaugher and family of Los Angeles area; Mary Plaugher and family of Klamath Falls, Oregon; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; her beloved life partner Carl Preston and his children, Kathleen Riddle and family of Fresno area, Brian Preston and family of Tulare, CA, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Carl and Diane were able to share 22 years together.
Since 2000, Diane had lived on and off in Modoc County. She was an inspiring woman with many talents. Dancing was one of her passions and she was a great cook. She was a restaurant cook for a number of years. She volunteered for the Veterans and Senior Citizens Center during her time in Modoc County. Her family was the most important part of her life. She will be missed by many and remembered with a smile.
Private family services will be held in Alturas and Tulare.

William “Bill” C. Prock
Relatives of William C. Prock who recently learned of his passing, contacted the Record this week to inform that William (Bill) Prock is survived by two nieces and a nephew: Janice (Prock) Wheeler, of California; Susan Prock of Oregon; and Bruce Prock of California. Mr. Prock, age 83, passed away at his home near Alturas, CA on July 21, 2014.

Sports

Braves face Cougars in 2014 Homecoming

The Modoc Braves and Weed Cougars will square off in the 2014 Modoc Homecoming game Friday night. The junior varsity game will start at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity game will follow.
Modoc’s varsity comes into the game with a 5-1 record, while Weed is winless at 0-6. The Braves had a bye last week and Weed lost to Burney 34-14.
In like competition this year, Modoc beat Chester 20-12 and Chester beat Weed 47-14, while Trinity beat Modoc 30-20 and beat Weed 48-20.
Weed comes into the game with one running back averaging over 100 yards per game, but the Braves rushing per game average is 170.5 yards, compared to Weed’s 142 yards per game. Modoc averages 153 yards passing per game, while Weed averages 130 yards. Modoc scores 24.8 points per game on average while Weed scores an 18.3 average.
Modoc coach Shaun Wood believes his Braves will be more than up to the task against the Cougars this weekend.

Hoop shoot coming

The Elks National Hoop Shoot Free Throw Contest is set for Oct. 28, 3 p.m. at the Modoc Middle School Gym.
Boys and girls ages eight to 13 , determined as of April 1, 2015 are eligible and invited to compete. For more information, contact Darlene Estes at 640-0740.

MHS Cross Country struggles at West Valley

The Braves Cross Country team finished off the month of September at the Henley Invitational, walking away with an impressive second place team finish and three team members rated in the top ten of the section.
They walked away from West Valley with a third place team finish and only freshman Taryn Burns remains in the top ten this week. Taryn Burns led the Braves at West Valley with a 14th place finish overall and a season best time of 22:06. She was the only team member to improve from the previous meet at Henley.
The Braves will travel to Yreka on Saturday to pick up the pieces and pursue the SCL League title, up for grabs on November 6. They will then have ten days to prepare for their final meet before league finals, which will be at Trinity on October 29.

Modoc sports

Modoc High School’s football team has Homecoming Friday against Weed, with the junior varsity at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow at 7:30 p.m.
The Modoc Volleyball team has Weed at home Oct. 16, JV at 5 p.m. and varsity at 6 p.m. and is at Fall River Oct. 21.
Cross Country travels to the Yreka Invitational Oct. 18.
Soccer has Weed at home Oct. 16 and goes to Fall River Oct. 21.

October 23, 2014

News

City hears frustration on deer herd issue

Several people showed up for Tuesday’s City Council meeting on the deer herd problem in Alturas. In the end, after an hour of discussion there was agreement a problem exists, but there was no easy solution at hand.
Department of Fish and Wildlife Warden Brian Gallaher and Biologist Richard Shinn were on hand to answer questions and provide their expertise.
The problem is the number of deer taking up residence within the City Limits and just how to trim their numbers.
Gallaher said he “didn’t know if there is a solution” except removing the deer, which may not be feasible. He stressed his main concern was for public safety, not so much the issue of the deer eating flowers or destroying gardens, but he understood the issue.
He said wildlife can be a problem in some area and stressed there needed to be a balance in everything. Some people like the deer in Alturas, others don’t. He suggested that residents need to take responsibility for protecting their garden or yards, including fencing or barriers that deer won’t cross.
He and Shinn also stressed that it’s illegal to feed the deer and residents feeding the deer does make the problem worse. One suggestion is the City could help by passing an ordinance to outlaw the feeding of deer.
Gallaher surmised the reason the deer are staying in town is it’s safe -- they have shelter, water and food and have no reason to leave.
Stacy Hafen, who brought the issue to the Council in September, stressed that many of the deer in town have been born in town and aren’t going to leave. In addition, she and others said humans do not threaten the deer.

SV Hospital future up for debate

The Surprise Valley Hospital Board is holding a community meeting on Tuesday evening, Oct. 28, at 7 p.m. Public input at this meeting is crucial and will help determine the future of medical care in Surprise Valley.
At this time the hospital is more than $1,750,000 in debt and is struggling to survive.
When Kevin Kramer, Modoc Medical Center Chief Executive Officer, was hired three months ago on a three month-one day a week contract, the hospital was days away from closure, borrowing money to make payrolls, being cut off by suppliers, and unable to pay anything on its growing debt.
Kramer immediately initiated cost saving measures, which included some pay reductions and the district’s CT scanner being shut down and scheduled for removal from the hospital grounds.          
“The hospital owed MD Imaging more than $300,000 on the machine, it is old and constantly breaking down. It was becoming unsafe to use on patients. It was sucking valuable resources from the district,” said Kramer.

Gas prices here drop below $4.00

Regular gas prices in Alturas have dropped below $4.00 as the national and state prices fall dramatically.
Signs at two Alturas stations have regular at $3.75 per gallon and another at $3.79. According to GasBuddy.com, the state average this week is $3.48 and the national average is $3.09. The lowest prices in Redding is $3.18 and the highest is $3.79.
GasBuddy expects that a dramatic wholesale slide will soon translate into much cheaper fuel prices in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Nevada with some aggressive retailers likely to post $3 gal or lower pump prices.

Modoc jobless drops to 7.8%

The Modoc unemployment rate dropped from August’s 8.2 percent to 7.8 percent in September, according to the state Employment Development Department.
EDD reports the civilian labor force at 3,650 with the number of unemployed at 290. The labor force dropped form August’s 3,720 and from last September’s 3,760. The unemployment rate last September stood at 9.5 percent.
Government accounts for 1,220 of the 3,360 jobs in Modoc. Local government saw an upswing of 40 jobs in September, from 850 to 890. Total farm employment dipped from August’s 580 to 500.

Obituary-

Carrol H. Cloud

Carrol Harvey Cloud, 92, went peacefully to be with the Lord on Saturday, October 18, 2014 in his New Pine Creek home, with his loving and dear Amy by his side.
Carrol was born October 16, 1922 in his parent’s home in New Pine Creek, CA. Carrol graduated from Modoc High School, Alturas, CA.
Celebration of Life services will be held at the Ousley Osterman Huffstutter Funeral Chapel in Lakeview, OR on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014 at 1 p.m.  The burial will follow at the New Pine Creek Cemetery. 
Contributions in memory of Mr. Cloud may be made to the Dementia Alzheimer’s Association, Columbia-Willamette Chapter, 1311 NW 21st. Ave., Portland, OR 97209 or to a charity of the donor’s choice. 

Franklin Henry Knemeyer

Franklin H. Knemeyer, 92, of Ridgecrest, CA, died October 15, 2014 at Casa Rosa Elder Care Center in Arroyo Grande, CA, after a two year illness. Frank was born in Yerington, NV on September 17, 1922, and raised in depression-era Alturas, CA, along with his brother
Visitation will be at Holland & Lyons Mortuary, (760) 371-1379 in Ridgecrest, CA on Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 5 – 6:30 p.m. with a wake service at 6:30 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, Oct. 23, at 11 a.m. at the Base Chapel, Our Lady of the Desert Community.  Burial will follow later.  In lieu of flowers, friends may wish to make a donation to the Maturango Museum (760) 375-6900.

Fannie (Sykes) Drake Babcock

Fannie April Drake Babcock passed away October 10, 2014 at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. Services will be held Nov. 1, at 1 p.m. at Modoc Full Gospel Indian Mission, 1010 W. Henderson St., Altuas. Dessert fellowship immediately following.
Fannie April Sykes was born in Batieste, Oklahoma on April 1, 1919.
Mrs. Babcock’s obituary will be published in next week’s issue. Private burial at a later date.

Sports

Modoc sports

Modoc High School’s football team hosts Burney Friday, with the junior varsity at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow at 7:30 p.m.
The Modoc Volleyball team has Etna here Oct. 23; JV at 5 p.m., varsity to follow and is at Burney Oct. 30.
Cross Country goes to the Trinity Invite Oct. 29.
Soccer has Etna here Oct. 23, game time at 5 p.m.

Braves cut down Weed; take on Raiders

Modoc’s varsity football team had no trouble beating the Weed Cougars Friday night in the Homecoming game 48-0. They host the Burney Raiders Friday night, in what should also be a lopsided affair.
Burney comes into the game following last Friday’s 48-0 loss to Mt. Shasta.
Modoc opened the Weed game leading 6-0 in the first period and by half led 29-0. They added 13 points in the third and six in the fourth.
The Braves have Burney here and then Mt. Shasta the next week, setting up what coach Shaun Wood believes will be the title game against Fall River there on Nov. 7.
JVs win 30-0
The Braves junior varsity also blanked Weed 30-0, leading 16-0 at the half and added eight in the third period and six in the fourth.
Budmark doesn’t feel Burney will be much tougher than Weed, but wants his players to be focused.

Braves split in volleyball

Modoc’s Braves split in varsity volleyball this last week. The play Etna at home tonight.
They beat Weed 25-17, 25-18 and 25-18.
The Braves lost to Mt. Shasta, 25-17, 12-25, 12-25 and 24-26.
Modoc junior varsity lost to Mt. Shasta 11-25, 25-19 and 9-15.
The Braves beat Weed 25-16 and 27-25.

Cross country brings home silver

The Braves cross country team traveled to Yreka last Saturday to participate in the 2014 Elk’s Invitational held at Greenhorn Park and placed second in the team event.
The Braves will travel to Weaverville and the Trinity Invitational October 29.
That will be their last outing before the league meet held at West Valley High School on November 6.
“Lady Braves are in a very good position to take the league title as well as the Northern section which would entitle the team to articipate in the state Championships held in Clovis on Saturday, November 29.” said Gouveia.

October 31, 2014

News

Tuesday is General Election Day

While many voters in Modoc County will have cast their General Election ballots by today, those who actually go to the polls are waiting until Tuesday. Polls will open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.
Modoc generally votes at about 70 percent, but with few local races on this ballot, the turnout may not be as high.
According to the Secretary of State, there are 6,951 people eligible to vote in Modoc, with only 5,160 registered.
The registration breakdown is as follows: Republican 2,557; Democrat 1,269; no party preference 983; American Independent 264; Peace and Freedom 42; Libertarian 26; other 11 and Green 0.
The election of the Board of Directors for the last Frontier Healthcare District (Modoc Medical Center) has four candidates are running for three seats. Board member Leta Bethel chose not to seek re-election. Incumbents seeking re-election are Guy Martin Young and Richard Steyer. Challengers are Michael Anderson, retired Forest Service, and Lau Miller, volunteer and Hospital Auxiliary President. A statement from each of them is published in this paper.
Alturas residents will vote on Measure Z, deciding whether to continue the $1.50 monthly fee to the minimum water rates to fund mosquito abatement. The City stresses that without approval the program would have to be stopped.

Wellemeyer assumes Auditor duties

There will be new leadership in the Modoc County Auditor-Recorder-Clerk’s Office starting next week.
Stephanie Wellemeyer, who was elected to the position in June, was appointed by the Board of Supervisors Tuesday to assume the duties early with the resignation of Darcy Locken, effective Nov. 1. She would normally have taken over the position in January. The salary for the position is $6,439 monthly.
The Board also approved a much-needed $77,246 five-year lease agreement that will finally upgrade much of the County’s outdated computer system. They approved an Apex contract for $8,680 professional services to implement the Backup and Disaster Recover project.
Supervisors also voted to allow County Administrator Chester Robertson to execute a contract with Morrison Structural not to exceed $103,800 for a combined project for a Courthouse dome structure, courthouse elevator and a basement lift. Those funds are from a state Parks and Recreation grant.
The proposed elevator would be installed at the southeast corner of the Courthouse. The dome structure will add stability, protection and waterproof the top of the dome.

BLM names manager for Alturas and SV

Dennis A. Sylvia, an experienced natural resource manager with government and private sector experience, has been named field manager for the Bureau of Land Management’s Alturas and Surprise Field Offices in northeast California.  He will report to the position later this year.
 “I look forward to working with the field office staffs and the people of Alturas, Cedarville, and the surrounding communities. I’ve been told about the great cooperative relationships in place and I am excited to continue to build on those relationships,” Sylvia said.
Sylvia is currently associate district manager in the BLM-Arizona’s Gila District Office, where he oversees a staff of 90 employees and varied programs ranging from mining to National Landscape Conservation System management.   
 “Dennis has strong skills in budget and administrative areas and working in varied natural resource programs,” said Nancy Haug, manager for the BLM’s Northern California District.  “He has experience developing and maintaining good working relationships with local governments, other agencies, communities and tribes.”

CAL FIRE lifts local fire restrictions

Northern California’s first significant rainfall of the season, combined with cooler temperatures, has allowed the CAL FIRE Lassen Modoc Plumas Unit to lift restrictions on door yard debris burning effective Monday, October 27, 2014 at 8:00 a.m.
This means you may burn door yard debris without a permit. Permits will not be required until May 1, 2015.  However, you must still contact your local Air Pollution Control District to ensure it’s a permissive burn day 530-233-6401.

Obituaries-

John Hilbert Schreiber
John Hilbert Schreiber was born on August 30, 1935 in Fresno, CA., to the proud parents of Freida and Albert Schreiber. John was raised with his two older brothers, Norman and Bud and younger sister Melinda. John passed away peacefully this past Sunday, October 26, 2014 in Anderson, California.
Burial services will be held at the Veterans Cemetery, 11800 Gas Point Road, Igo, CA, this coming Monday, November 3, at 12:30 p.m. The service will end at 1:00 p.m. A memorial service will also be conducted at Faith Baptist Church in Alturas at 810 W. Carlos St. on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at 1 p.m. Friends and family are encouraged to attend and celebrate his life.

Betty “Sue” Northrup
Betty Sue Northrup of Alturas, CA passed away Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014, surrounded by family. She was born Betty Sue Armstrong in El Reno, Oklahoma March of 1943.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 1 at 11 a.m. at Church of the First Born, corner of Eighth and Mill Streets, Alturas. Donny Young will conduct the service. A family potluck lunch will be served by her church family following the service.

Fannie Sykes Babcock
Born Fannie April Sykes in Battiest, Oklahoma on April 1, 1919. Fannie April Drake Babcock passed away October 10, 2014 at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA.
Services for Fannie Babock will be held Saturday, Nov. 1 at 1 p.m. at Modoc Full Gospel Indian Mission, 1010 West Henderson St., Alturas, CA. Dessert fellowship immediately following. Private burial at a later date.

Rose Mary Collis
Rose Mary Collis of Roseburg, OR, beloved family member who visited Alturas many times over the years and came to know many local residents, passed away Sunday, October 5, 2014 at OHSU in Portland, OR, at the age of 84. Rose Mary was born in Detroit, Michigan on Feb. 25, 1930. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 2 p.m. at Wilson’s Chapel of the Roses. Private interment at Roseburg National Cemetery.

William C. (Bill) Prock
Mr. Prock, age, 83, passed away at his home near Alturas, California on July 21, 2014. Bill was born on July 31, 1930 to Charles and Eathel (Peggy) Prock. A memorial service was held for Bill on August 10, 2014 at Stowe Reservoir Campground on Cedar Pass near the Prock Ranch. Bill will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Sports

Braves trounce Raiders; Bears are next

Modoc’s varsity football team disarmed the Burney Raiders 61-12 Friday night and will face the Mt. Shasta Bears here this week.
“We played well and nearly everyone got quality playing time,” said coach Shaun Wood. “I expect the Mt. Shasta game to be a little closer. They have a huge line and a couple of good backs. They like to throw, so we’ll be ready for that. I think we’ll be able to handle them well.”
Right now in the Shasta Cascade League, Fall River leads at 8-0 and Modoc is second at 7-1. The last league game of the season might put the Braves and Bulldogs in a title fight in Fall River. But, Modoc has to get by the Bears first. The Bears are 2-6 in the SCL and lost to Etna last week 24-8.
“The Bears will be respectable, and I expect a decent game,” Wood said.
Modoc’s junior varsity team had no trouble with Burney beating them 32-12.
The Braves led 32-0 at halftime and got nearly every player in the second half. Burney managed to score six in the third and six in the fourth period.
“We played well defensively and offensively,” said coach Dominic Budmark. “There was no let down and I was pleased overall with the game. “I think we’ll be able to handle Mt. Shasta if we continue to work like we have.”

Fall River drops Braves netters

The Fall River Bulldogs beat the Modoc Braves varsity volleyball team 27-29, 25-21, 20-25, and 25-14 last week. No game stats were released. Modoc meets Burney today at Burney.
The Braves beat Etna Oct. 23 by scores of  25-19, 25-16, 21-25 and 25-20. Modoc’s junior varsity lost to Fall River 10-25, 21-25. Etna beat the JVs 22-25 and 19-25.

Soccer ends season at 1-12

Modoc Soccer finished its 2014 season with an exciting home game versus Etna. Modoc lost 6-5 with both teams trading the lead throughout the game.
Modoc outshot Etna 18-7, but could not convert on easy conversions.
Modoc finished the season 1-12-1. The team doubled its scoring totals from the previous year in a much improved Shasta-Cascade League.

Modoc sports

Modoc High School’s football team hosts Mt. Shasta Friday, with the junior varsity at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow at 7:30 p.m.
The Modoc Volleyball team is at Burney Oct. 30 and has Trinity at home Nov. 1, games starting at 2 p.m.
Cross Country goes to the Trinity Invite Oct. 29.
Soccer has completed its season.

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November 6, 2014

News

Election in Modoc has 54.83 percent turnout

The Nov. 4 General Election in Modoc had lower than normal turnout of voters at 54.83 percent, but it was well above the state turnout of 29.9 percent.
On the local issues, Measure Z, continuing the City of Alturas Mosquito Abatement fee of $1.50 per month passed easily with 75.71 percent, 530 votes in favor to 24.29 percent, 170 votes against.
Three people were elected to the Last Frontier Healthcare District, Modoc Medical Center, Board of Directors: Guy Martin Young with 1,168 votes, Richard Steyer with 1,091 votes and Michael Anderson with 999 votes. Lau Miller failed to get elected with 658 votes.
Doug LaMalfa won re-election to his First District U.S. House of Representatives seat with 61.6 percent of the district vote. Challenger Heidi Hall got 38.4 percent of the vote. In Modoc, LaMalfa received 73.6 percent of the vote with 2,064 and Hall got 26.4 percent at 741.
Big Valley’s Brian Dahle easily won re-election to the California State Assembly with 71.3 percent of the district vote, while challenger Brigham Sawyer Smith got 28.7 percent. In Modoc, Dahle received 82.1 percent of the vote 2,272 and Smith got 17.9 percent of the vote at 496.
On the Propositions in this election, Modoc was against most, including the proposed water bond.
Proposition 1, the funding for water quality, supply, treatment and storage passed, statewide by 66.8 percent to 33.2 percent against. Modoc voters were against the measure by 54.6 percent, 1,491 against and 1,238 for.
Proposition 2, the state budget stabilization bill, passed easily statewide by 68.7 percent and it was the only issue Modoc voters supported, 52.2 percent to 47.8 percent against.

Remains of John Doe now at DNA lab

The remains of John Doe are now at the Department of Justice DNA lab. The skeletal remains were discovered Oct. 14 by an individual hiking near the intersection of County Road 54 (Centerville Road) and County Road 60 (backroad to Likely) about 100 to 150 yards from the road.
“Not much new on John Doe, a femur is now at the DOJ DNA lab and we do not expect a quick turn around there,” said Modoc Sheriff Mike Poindexter. “We received a report from Dr. Lorna Pierce with the results of her examination. She reports that the subject is a male, 60 years plus in age, primarily Caucasian, approximately 5'6” to 5'9” tall. She reports no evidence of a cause of death on the skeletal remains. Estimation of time since death is extremely difficult, noting that some of the remains have been exposed to the elements while others had been well protected.”  

Alturas man sentenced to nearly 20 years for child porn

Michael Elliot Papac, 47, of Alturas, was sentenced Nov. 4 by United States District Judge John A. Mendez to 19 years and seven months in prison to be followed by a lifetime of serviced release for receipt and distribution of child pornography, United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced.
This case was the product of an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with assistance from the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office and the Queensland Police Service in Australia. Assistant United States Attorney Josh F. Sigal prosecuted the case.
 According to court documents, Papac was arrested on February 14, 2014, following a referral by the Queensland Police Service in Australia regarding the potential sexual abuse of a minor. A covert Internet investigator in Queensland came into contact with Papac on a Russian website known for being a source of child pornography. Back to Papac in Alturas. Papac had posted photos of a sleeping eight-year-old girl with her pajama top unbuttoned. He discussed his plan to sedate and molest her while she slept and to take and distribute photographs of the molestation. With the assistance of Australian police, HSI agents were able to trace Papac’s email to his residence in Alturas and arrest him before he was able to act on his plan.

Things are a skakin’

The earthquake swarm that started on July 12 north of Vya has now recorded more than 700 quakes which seem to be showing a trend of increasing magnitudes.
The epicenters are located primarily near the western edge of the Sheldon Refuge and are considered shallow. Of the 39 earthquakes occurring in the immediate area in the last day and a half, most are at the surface to the 100 yard depth. Of these there have been 13 quakes measuring 3.0 to 4.6.
Although shallow quakes can do considerable damage, no one lives in the area to feel them. Their cause is undetermined at this time.
Three microquakes were recorded near Reederville in the south Surprise Valley area on Wednesday morning.

Veterans Day services set

Alturas Veterans Post will host the Veterans’ Day ceremony and Pancake breakfast on Tuesday, November 11 at Veterans’ Memorial Hall, So. Main St., Alturas.
A pancake breakfast will be served from 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. for $5 per person. The ceremony begins at 11 a.m. on site.
All veterans are invited to enjoy a complimentary Chicken Alfredo luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 11 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Veterans’ Memorial Hall. The Alturas Elks Lodge BPOE 1756 will host the dinner. Guests are welcome to dine at $7 per person.
Veteran's Lunch will be served by the Intermountain Cattlewomen at the Adin Community Hall on November 11 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The Menu is beef stew, cornbread, green salad and carrot cake.  
Plan to join the event, have a good time, eat a good lunch and meet some interesting folks, say organizers.
Join the Surprise Valley VFW from 5:30 to 8 p.m. for their annual Spaghetti Feed, held at Post #7888 hall, just north of Cedarville. Adults, $8; kids 10 and under eat free. Come support local veterans. Call Larry Stevenson at 541-281-0211 for information.

Obituaries—

Kenneth W. Fogle
Kenneth Wesley Fogle of Alturas, CA passed away on October 29, 2014.
He was born September 26, 1931 in Rockford, Illinois to Carl and Rosetta Fogle. Ken graduated from Tulelake High School in 1949.
A memorial will be held at a later date.

Theodore G. Dunten
On Friday, October 24, 2014, Theodore “Teddy” Dunten, age 71, passed away at the Riverside Convalescent Hospital in Chico, California.
Teddy was born in Alturas, California on September 22, 1943 to Theodore R. (Ted Sr.) Dunten and Mary J. Weilmunster.
There are no services pending at this time, but a memorial and/or graveside service will be arranged at some future date, with details to be provided.

John Schreiber
A memorial service for former Modoc County Supervisor, Alturas City Councilman and local long-established Cedarville and Alturas Barber John Hilbert Schreiber will be held at Faith Baptist Church at 810 W. Carlos St., Alturas on Saturday, November 8 at 1 p.m. Friends and family are encouraged to attend and celebrate his life.
He is survived by his wife Margaret, sisters Melinda and Elaine, daughter Mary, son Lonnie and grandkids Garrett, Kyle, Jared and Krysten. Burial services were held at the Veterans Cemetery, 11800 Gas Point Road, Igo, CA, November 3. Mr. Schreiber passed away peacefully Sunday, October 26, 2014 in Anderson, CA.

Sports

Braves, Bulldogs will battle for SCL title, playoff seeding

Friday night Fall River High School’s field in McArthur will be rockin’ as the Braves and Bulldogs battle for a share of the Shasta Cascade League title and the top seed in the CIF North Section Division Five playoffs.
The weather forecast for Friday looks almost football perfect with temperatures in the 50’s and no rain or snow in the picture. The junior varsity game will start at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity tilt at about 7:30 p.m.
Fall River, with a 9-0 overall record and 5-0 league mark, is currently in the driver’s seat, with Modoc at 8-1 overall and 4-0 in the league. Fall River is ranked number one and Modoc number two in Division Five.
Both teams will make the section playoffs, but what’s at stake is the home field advantage. If Modoc beats the Bulldogs, they would move to number one and play games at home. If Fall River wins, they’ll retain the number one rank and Modoc would probably move to number three. That would still give Modoc one home game, but anything else would be on the road.
Fall River will come into the game as the favorite, aided by a very strong offense that’s averaging 50 points per game this season. Modoc is averaging 33 points per game. The Bulldogs passing game under Jace Neugebauer is averaging 237 yards per game, while Modoc’s Alan Weber is averaging 153 yards passing. The rushing averages per game are even with Modoc at 219.9 yards and Fall River at 220 yards.
“I think our defense is better than theirs,” said Modoc coach Shaun Wood. His defense has allowed only 27 points in the SCL this season. “But, their offense is a little better. They have serious threats and the quarterback is for real. He has a rocket arm and we’ll have to be ready.”
Wood said he’ll rely on his two safeties, Weber and Tyler Ewing, to make sure they cover the Bulldog receivers deep.
“I like our secondary against them, but they are going to score,” he said. “If we can keep them in the 21 to 28 point range, I think we’ll be fine. I like that we’re going in as the underdog and it’s going to be a good game. We’ll try and control the time of possession.”
Modoc beat Mt. Shasta 40-0 here on a cold and wet Friday night. The Braves opened with a 6-0 lead in the first and led 18-0 by halftime. They added nine points in the third and 13 points in the fourth period.

Modoc volleyball awaits playoff seed

Modoc’s varsity volleyball team finished the regular season at 15-14-2 and 7-5 in the Shasta Cascade League. They are ranked 10th in the North Section Division Five standings and are awaiting their seed in the tournament.
The decision will come later this week.
Modoc’s varsity volleyball team beat Trinity 25-19, 25-16 and 25-20.
The Braves beat Burney 25-20, 25-18, 25-16. Modoc lost to Mt. Shasta 22-25, 23-25 and 16-25 Tuesday to finish the regular season.
Modoc’s junior varsity volleyball team beat Burney 25-23 and 25-12 Oct. 30.
Modoc also beat Trinity Saturday 26-24, 24-26 and 17-15. The JVs lost to Mt. Shasta 15-5, and 11-25.

Cross Country at Trinity

The Modoc Braves cross-country team traveled to Weaverville last Wednesday to participate in the Trinity Invitational meet. The women’s varsity team had another outstanding day with the girls finishing in the top ten. They were led by senior Stephanie Gouveia who finished fourth overall with a time of 19:50 on the very difficult 2.5-mile course. She was followed by freshman Taryn Burns in fifth with a time of 19:50.75 and senior Casey Burns sixth with a time of 19:51. Junior Cindy Cohen placed tenth overall with a time of 21:46.46.
On the men’s side, junior Michael Bratten had an outstanding performance finishing seventh overall with a time of 17:25. Senior Cameron McCarty also participated in the event and was awarded a commemorative meet sweatshirt for his diligence and continued progress within the sport.

Modoc sports

Modoc High School’s football team is at Fall River, with the junior varsity at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow at 7:30 p.m.
Cross Country goes to West Valley Nov. 6 for the SCL/Small Schools meet.
Volleyball awaits deeding in the section playoffs.

November 13, 2014

News

Modoc DA to seek death penalty in Rhoades case

Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk has decided to seek the death penalty against Cherie Rhoades.
"Last Friday a committee of experienced homicide and death penalty prosecutors, including a representative of the Attorney General's Office, met to review the case of the People of the State of California vs. Cherie Rhoades,” Funk said Monday in a press release.  “The purpose of the meeting was to review all known aggravating and mitigating facts in the Rhoades case and hence to evaluate whether or not the death penalty is appropriate in this case.  
“The Modoc County District Attorney hereby announces his intent to seek the death penalty against Cherie Rhoades.  Except for public information regarding future court dates, there will be no further announcements regarding this case from the District Attorney and no further comment on the decision to seek the death penalty."
Rhoades is facing four murder counts and two counts of attempted murder and an enhancement for multiple murders making her eligible for the death penalty.  
Rhoades is accused of killing Rurik Davis, age 50, Angel Penn, age 19, Glenn Calonico, age 30, and Sheila Russo, age 47, at the Cedarville Rancheria Office in Alturas, February 20, during a tribal council meeting. The subject of the meeting was her eviction. She had been removed as tribal chairperson in January.
She is also accused of attempted murder of Melissa and Monica Davis at the same time. Both were shot. The two are daughters of Rurik Davis, who is Rhoade’s brother. Penn and Calonico were niece and nephew to Rhoades.

Numerous Earthquakes creating some concern

Seismologists from the University of Nevada Seismological Lab are taking a closer look at the earthquake swarm occurring north of Vya. Since the earthquake swarm shows no sign of diminishing, seismologists are scouting locations in which to place portable seismic sensors on private land closer to the epicenters.
There were 13 new quakes posted approximately between 7 and 8 a.m. on Wednesday morning, including three magnitude 3+ and one 4.1. Approximately 200 new quakes in the area have been posted on the Internet by the Seismological Lab in the last week.
Residents around Surprise Valley have reported feeling only slight tremors, which when the time is checked on the earthquake site, tend to reinforce that they did indeed feel the quake.
The Nevada Seismological Laboratory is a research division within the College of Science at the University of Nevada, Reno. The Laboratory has overall responsibility for instrumental studies of earthquakes in the Nevada region. The laboratory operates a statewide network of seismographic stations and investigates the sizes, frequencies of occurrence, and distribution of earthquakes in the region, and other problems related to seismic risk in Nevada. Their site is:     http://www.seismo.unr.edu/Earthquake or www.data.scec.org.

Gas prices keep falling

Gas prices on a national level have dropped to an average of $2.91 for regular unleaded and they are expected to continue a slow decline. It’s the lowest price since December 2010.
Alturas remains quite a bit higher than the California average of $3.46. Regular here goes from $3.65 to $3.69 per gallon. Rabbit Traxx in Cedarville has gas at $3.50 per gallon. The average price for gas in Oregon is $3.01.
Several cities around the region have much lower prices than Alturas. Redding has a low of $2.93 per gallon, Susanville has it at $3.07 per gallon, Anderson’s low price is $2.97, and Chico is at $3.01.
Gas in Reno was $3.07 as of Sunday.

Pedestrian hit on Main

A vehicle struck a pedestrian at Fourth and Main Streets Monday night.
According to Alturas Police, James Mann, 75, Alturas, was in the crosswalk walking across Main Street about 9 p.m. heading west.
He was struck by a southbound vehicle driven by Amy Qualles, 38, also from Alturas. According to the APD, the vehicle was traveling between 25 and 30 m.p.h. at the time of impact. Qualles told Police she had glanced at the Fourth Street intersection to check for traffic and when she looked back, Mann was directly in front of her.
Mann sustained major injuries and was transported to Modoc Medical Center in Alturas.

Obituaries—

Perry Tilson
Life-long Davis Creek resident and former Modoc County Sheriff Perry Tilson, 82, went home to be with his Lord, November 9, 2014, after a very brief and unexplained illness.
A funeral service open to the public will be Friday, November 21, 2014, at 1 p.m. at Faith Baptist Church, 810 W Carlos Street, in Alturas, CA.  His obituary will be published at a later date.

Donald Parks
Donald Phillip  “Poppy” Parks, 85, of California and Arizona, died October 29, 2014 at home in Cedarville, California.
Phillip was born September 9, 1929 in Richmond, California, to Allison and Harry Parks. A memorial service was held on Sunday, November 9 at the Cedarville Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Willits Seventh-Day Adventist Church Pathfinder Club, 399 W. Mendocino Ave., Willits, CA 95490 or the Surprise Valley Hospital, Box 246, Cedarville CA 96104.

Royal Darnell
Royal Darnell of McArthur, CA passed away Nov. 7, 2014 in Fall River Mills, CA.
 A graveside service will be held Friday, Nov.14 at 2 p.m. at Pine Grove Cemetery in McArthur. A potluck will follow at George Ingram Hall, McArthur.
Mr. Darnell was born in Toledo, Oregon on March 10, 1922.
Donations in his memory may be directed to VFW Post 7144, P.O. Box 250, Bieber, CA 96009.

Sports

Fall River whips Modoc; Modoc faces Quincy Friday

Fall River’s favored Bulldogs whipped the Modoc Braves varsity football team 27-8 in Fall River Friday night. Modoc’s offense simply did not show up.
The loss put the Braves in the number three spot in the CIF North Section Division Five playoffs and they will host Quincy here Friday night at 6:30 p.m. The Braves beat Quincy in September 26-7. While Modoc comes into the game with an 8-2 mark, the Trojans are 4-5 overall. Coach Shaun Wood believes the Quincy squad will be better this time around. If the Braves beat Quincy, they would travel to Maxwell for the next game. It’s quite possible the section title could come down to a Modoc-Fall River battle again.
“Quincy is led by a running quarterback ad they have a decent defense, so I think they’ll be better this time,” Wood said. “But we know them and we’ll be prepared. We just have some areas we really need to work on this week.”
Wood went into the Fall River game confident that his offense would be able to score and is defense could slow the potent Bulldog offense down. He was pretty much shocked with the offense and its lack of production, as it was making mistakes continually. The defense held the Bulldogs to 27 points, much fewer than Fall River had been averaging all year. In addition, the Braves did not allow a touchdown pass. But that’s pretty much all the coach could compliment.
“Our offense just disappeared and we were stunned,” Wood said.

Brave jayvees beat Bulldogs 12-8

Modoc’s junior varsity Braves beat the Fall River Bulldogs 12-8 in the preliminary game Friday night at Fall River.
The first three quarters found the teams locked in the defensive battle with neither team scoring. Modoc would add 12 points in the fourth and Fall River eight.
Tanner Cook led the Braves onslaught in the final period, scoring two rushing touchdowns. He scored from 68 yards out with about four minutes left in the game to seal the win. He ran the ball 12 times for 122 yards. Collin Martin carried it three times for 11 yards.
 “The first three quarters were tense,” said coach Dominic Budmark. “All in all, I was very pleased with the season. I couldn’t be more proud of them. We found ways to win all season. They decided they wanted to win and worked hard at it.”
The JVs finish with a 7-3 overall record and 4-1 in the Shasta Cascade League.

Brave Cross Country runners make All League team

The Braves Cross Country team closed out their regular season at the Shasta Cascade League meet held a West Valley High School on Wednesday, November 5. Junior, Michael Bratton finished 6th overall, with a new personal record time of 19:46 in the men’s varsity three mile event
Bratton’s efforts earned him a spot on the Men’s Varsity All League Team for the second consecutive year
Three of the four MHS girls who competed did manage to make the All League team. Freshman Taryn Burns made her first All League team with a second place finish and new personal record of 21:59 in the three mile event. Senior Casey Burns also made her first All League team with her fourth place finish. Senior Stephanie Gouveia finished fifth overall and qualified for the All League team for the third consecutive year.

Modoc sports

Modoc High’s football team hosts Quincy in first round of CIF North Section Division 5 playoffs, game time at 6:30 p.m.
Cross Country goes to West Valley Nov. 14 for the North Section meet.
Volleyball played Portola after press time Wednesday night.

November 20, 2014

News

UNR monitoring quake swarm activity

By Jean Bilodeaux
Special to the Record

The intensifying earthquake swarm occurring about 40 miles northeast of Cedarville has prompted the Nevada Seismological Laboratory at the University of Nevada, Reno to increase their monitoring of the activity.
On Monday three scientists were dispatched to install two seismic sensors closer to the swarm. One of the sensors is located on the Hovering Circle W Ranch owned by Jon and Linda Walters north of Vya and the other is situated in a more northeastern location. The sensors will read, record and transmit quake activity to the Seismological lab. Complicating matters slightly was the fact that the sensors need electricity and WiFi to function properly. With slight alterations in the equipment, the sensors were installed.
Two 4.7 magnitude earthquakes and more than 50, 3.0 or greater magnitude earthquakes mark an uptick in seismic activity one week after a 4.6 magnitude earthquake struck northeast of Vya, Nevada on Nov. 4, 2014. The activity in the past week is more than in previous months combined. This ongoing swarm is located about 40 miles northeast of Cedarville, Calif. During the past week, the University of Nevada, Reno’s Nevada Seismological Laboratory, in collaboration with the U.S. Geological Survey and seismic network operators in Washington and Oregon, has recorded six earthquakes larger than magnitude 4.
The largest two events (M4.7) occurred just after midnight Nov. 6 and Nov. 7. A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck the area this morning, Nov. 12, at 6:42 a.m. This recent activity marks an increase in both magnitude and number of events for this swarm that began five months ago. In total, there have been 101 earthquakes larger than 3.0, the largest being magnitude 4.7, and eight earthquakes have been larger than magnitude 4.0.

Mill site may get more industry

While it’s taken longer than planned to get the Warner Mountain Lumber Mill open on the Alturas Mill site property, it appears to be near operational.
Alturas Public Works Director Joe Picotte’s request for a new mill property lease committee was approved by the City Council Tuesday afternoon. That committee will include Mayor John Dederick and Councilwoman Cheryl Nelson.
According to Picotte, the main investor in the lumber mill project wants to enter into a lease for the southern portion of the mill site, with plans to build a chip plant and later install a pellet mill. Those would work in conjunction with the lumber mill.
Picotte said the chip production portion could be up and running is less than a month and the pellet mill could in place within a year. All three entities would be a major benefit in the jobs picture and overall economy of Modoc and Alturas.
The additional lease would also include the city-owned railroad spur that links to the Union Pacific line to Klamath Falls. That spur has been inspected and approved, Picotte said.
The lease committee will be meeting soon to hammer out an agreement and set parameters on the use of the site.

Day Fire Salvage Project

Day Fire Salvage Project now accepting scoping comments for 30 days.
The Big Valley Ranger District of the Modoc National Forest (MDF) is initiating scoping for the Day Fire Salvage Project.  In July, the Day Fire burned a total of 13,153 acres before it was contained. There was an isolated 40 acre parcel burned on the Modoc National Forest. The project area is surrounded by private lands approximately one and one half mile north of the Lookout Ranchette Subdivision, and approximately 5 miles northwest of the community of Lookout.
The primary purpose of this salvage project is to recover timber value before marketability is drastically reduced as a consequence of insect activity, decay, and staining from fungi. The proposed actions are salvaging harvest, hazard tree removal and reforestation. A copy of the Purpose and Need / Proposed Action is available on the project website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/projects/modoc/landmanagement/projects.

Property tax deadline near

The first installment of Modoc County property taxes must be paid by 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 10, 2014, in order to avoid a 10 percent penalty charge for late payment. 
Payments may be made in the Modoc County Courthouse, Room 101, in the office of Cheryl Knoch, Tax Collector, or by mail.  Office hours for the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s office will be Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (including the lunch hour) on Monday December 8 through Wednesday December 10.
All mail must be postmarked on or before December 10, 2014 to avoid the 10 percent late penalty.  When making a payment, be sure to include installment stubs.

Obituaries—

Michael. W. Kuhnel
Michael Wayne Kuhnel, age 64, of Honeydew, California passed away on November 10, 2014 as a result of a traumatic auto accident.
Mike was born on June 19, 1950 in Sacramento, California to Paul and Dorothy Kuhnel who preceded him in death
No services are planned, per Mike’s wishes’, however, a celebration of his life is being planned for a later date.

Perry Tilson
Perry Tilson, 82, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 9, 2014, at Rogue Regional Medical Center, in Medford, Oregon after a very short illness. 
Perry was born in a small family cabin outside Marshall, North Carolina, on May 19, 1932.  He was one of four children born to John and Mabel (Blankenship) Tilson.
Perry’s life will be honored in a public military funeral at Faith Baptist Church, 810 Carlos St, Alturas, California, on November 21, 2014, at 1:00 in the afternoon. 

Rich (Richard) Ward Hamel
Richard “Rich” Ward Hamel, 80, of Likely, CA passed away on November 14, 2014 at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Mr. Hamel’s obituary and photo will follow in a future issue.

Barbara M. Hanks
Barbara M. Hanks passed away November 14, 2014 at Lake District Hospital, Lakeview, Oregon. Memorial services will be held Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. at the Surprise Valley Community Church, Cedarville, CA. Potluck will follow at the church hall.
Donations may be made to the Surprise Valley Community Church, P.O. Box 187, Cedarville, CA 96104 or the Dr. Roberts Fund, c/o Surprise Valley Community Hospital, P.O.  Box 246, Cedarville, CA 96104. Obituary will follow at a later date.

Mildred F. Jones
Mildred Fern Jones of Cedarville, a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away of natural causes on Tuesday, November 11, 2014 in McCall, Idaho.  She will be missed greatly by everyone who knew her. Mildred was born June 29, 1919, in Alturas, California to Grant and Mabel Pratt. A memorial service for Mildred will be in May, 2015 at the Cedarville Community Church.  A formal obituary will be provided at that time.

Sheila Landreth
Sheila June Landreth of Alturas passed away Sunday, Nov. 9, 2014 at Sky Lakes Hospital in Klamath Falls, Oregon, after an 11-month battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born Sheila June York in Amarillo, Texas on April 15, 1946, she graduated from Harlingen High in Harlingen, Texas and continued her education at Gavlan Community College in Gilroy, CA.

Sports

Braves whip Portola in five

Modoc’s Braves beat the Portola Volleyball team in the opening round of the CIF North Section Division playoffs 22-25, 25-20, 25-21, 21-25 and 15-9.
Beth Derner led the team with 18 kills, while Kelly Schmidt added 11, Emily Lowrey seven, and Pricila Madrigal five.
Derner and Melissa Knoch each served three aces, while Lowrey and Schmidt each had two.
The girls played Durham in the second round of the playoffs Tuesday night there, but no results were reported.

Braves beat Quincy, head to Maxwell

While the score doesn’t do justice to Modoc 28-20 win over Quincy Friday night, it sends the Braves into the second round of the CIF North Section playoffs against Maxwell, there Friday night, with kickoff at 6:30 p.m.
Modoc had two fourth quarter touchdowns called back against Quincy on questionable penalties.
Both Maxwell and Modoc have lost this season to the top seed, Fall River. Maxwell lost 45-3, while Modoc lost 27-8. Fall River plays host to Etna Friday night. The winners of these two games will meet for the section championship Nov. 26.
Maxwell heads into the game with a 6-2 record and Modoc is at 9-2. The Braves are averaging 30.4 points per game and Maxwell 22.9. Modoc is averaging 453 yards offense, while Maxwell is averaging 287.9 yards. Modoc’s holds the edge in passing with 144 yards compared to 70 yards, and the teams are fairly even in the ground game.
“I think we’ll be okay as long as our defense keeps playing well,” said coach Shaun Wood. “They are good and they have a good back, but we’ll be ready.”
The Braves’ offense returned in the Quincy game and actually took control early. They led 6-0 in the first, but Quincy tied it at 14 by half. Modoc got up 28-14 after three. Quincy added six points in the fourth. Modoc had two long touchdowns called back on holding penalties in the fourth period.

Modoc girls win section, on to State meet

The Modoc girls Cross Country team narrowly beat Durham to win the CIF North Section Division 5 Championship and Advance to State Championships in Fresno on November 29.  
Modoc scored 233 points to Durham’s 236 winning the championship by a mere three points. The Braves were led by Taryn Burns with a time of 21:44, Casey Burns 22:02, Stephanie Gouveia 22:07, Madelyn Binning 23:23, and Cindy Cohen 23:28.  All five runners posted season bests on the challenging West Valley course in Cottonwood.
The girls will travel to Fresno on November 28 and are scheduled to run at 11:10 am on Saturday, November 29, at Woodward Park.

November 27, 2014

News

Surprise Valley now cracking up

By Jean Bilodeaux
Special to the Record

The earthquake swarm east of the Warner Mountains appears to be slowing down. That said, on Nov. 21, there were 28 earthquakes posted, with four in the magnitude three range and one magnitude four.
“Since last Friday we’ve seen a trailing off of the quakes, both in rate and in magnitude. There’s only been one M3 quake since then,” said Ken Smith, assistant director of the Nevada Seismological Lab in Reno, “Hopefully we’re at the end of the swarm.”
Smith then cautioned that the swarm may continue or even increase. He stated that seismologists can not predict or forecast seismic events.
Just when the quakes started to quiet down, huge cracks appeared on the playa’s surface east of Cedarville. They run in an approximate north-south direction and go as far as the eye can see. A few cracks appeared last spring and were attributed to the drying of the playa. The playa is completely saturated with water at this time, to the point where it would be nearly impossible to walk on the surface. The “dried out” theory may not be correct.
“I just drove by and looked at them and I can't believe how many there are. It’s like they came overnight,” said Curt Rose of Surprise Valley.
Others also mentioned the number and their sudden appearance.
Jim Faulds, Nevada State Geologist and Director of the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology, said that he would have his scientists study the cracks to try and determine their cause.

Modoc jobless rate goes up

The Modoc October 2014 jobless rate increased to 8.0 percent from September’s 7.8 percent, according to the state Employment Development Department.
In October 2013, Modoc’s unemployment rate was 9.9 percent.
The civilian labor force last month numbered 3,760 with 2,460 employed and 300 claiming unemployment. In 2013, the labor force numbered 3,770 with 3,390 employed and 380 unemployed. One note is the 2014 labor force jumped from 3,640 in September to 3,760 in October.
Government employment accounts for 1,240 jobs, with the following breakdown: federal 250, state 70 and local 920. Local government employment in October increased from Septembers 890 to 920. Government accounts for about 36 percent of the jobs in Modoc.
Modoc’s 8 percent jobless rate ranks it 38th out of the state’s 58 counties for highest unemployment. Lassen ranks 28th at 7.2 percent and Siskiyou ranks 42nd at 8.4 percent. The lowest unemployment is in Marin at 3.9 percent and the highest is in Imperial at 23.7 percent.

CAL FIRE transitions out of fire season

Recent rains and cooler temperatures across the region have lowered the threat of wildfires allowing CAL FIRE’s Lassen-Modoc-Plumas Unit to transition out of fire season effective Monday, November 24, 2014 at 8 a.m. in Lassen, Modoc and Plumas Counties.
As drought conditions continue to have a hold on California, CAL FIRE is maintaining staffing that meets the current threat, as well as strategically moving resources to areas that remain at a higher threat level. CAL FIRE will also continue to monitor weather conditions closely and still has the ability to increase staffing should the weather conditions change or if there is a need to support wildfires in other areas of the State.
The 2014 fire season has been an extremely active year. Statewide CAL FIRE and firefighters from many local agencies battled over 5,500 wildfires within the State Responsibility Area that burned nearly 91,000 acres. This number is over 1,000 more wildfires this year than normal.  

Arrest after chase on Crower flat

A Lakeview, Or. man was arrested Nov. 17 after attempting to evade Modoc County Sheriff’s Deputies on Crowder Flat Road.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Robert E. Banister, 60, led deputies on a chase about 10:30 p.m. He was driving a 1992 Jeep and deputies canceled the pursuit. Shortly thereafter they found the vehicle had collided with a pile of concrete off the road. Deputies were then able to locate Banister. He was transported to Modoc Medical Center with minor injuries prior to being booked into the Modoc County Jail.

Obituaries—
Barbara M. Hanks
Memorial services for Barbara M. Hanks will be held Friday, Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. at the Surprise Valley Community Church, Cedarville, CA. Potluck will follow at the church hall.
Donations may be made to the Surprise Valley Community Church, P.O. Box 187, Cedarville, CA 96104 or the Dr. Roberts Fund, c/o Surprise Valley Community Hospital, P.O.  Box 246, Cedarville, CA 96104. Mrs. Hanks passed away November 14, 2014 at Lake District Hospital, Lakeview, Oregon. Obituary will follow at a later date.

James Jones
James M. Jones passed away unexpectedly on November 23, 2014 due to complications following a surgery.  Jim was born in Redding, CA and lived throughout California, Nevada, Utah, and Massachusetts before settling in Arlington, WA for the past 20 years.
Aged 66 years old, Jim was born in Redding, CA to Barbara Olsen Jones and Robert Jones. Jim’s mother grew up in Madeline. As an adult she moved back to Madeline and worked at the hospital in Alturas.
A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at his home on Saturday. November 29, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. All are welcome. Bring stories and pictures to share.

Sports

Braves fall to Maxwell 14-6

Modoc’s Braves fell victim to Maxwell 14-6 Friday night, there, knocking them out of the North section Playoffs. In the other semi-final game, Etna upset Fall River 20-0 in McArthur.
Etna and Maxwell played for the title Wednesday night.
Wood was hoping for another shot at Fall River this year, but the Bulldogs also fell short, so that highly anticipated meeting did not happen. Last week Wood said that Etna was playing better and felt they could upset the Bulldogs.

Modoc favored in wrestling loop

Modoc’s wrestling team enters into the 2014-15 season as the preemptive Shasta Cascade League and section favorite in section small schools.
The Braves open the season Dec. 5-6 at the tough Chester tournament and host the huge Modoc North East Classic tournament here Dec. 12-13. The Modoc tournament is attracting some of the major wrestling schools from the north state, Oregon and Nevada. This year, coach Shaun Wood said they are pulling more strong teams from the Central Valley.
Wood said there are about 20 wrestlers out of this year’s team and he sees plenty of potential for a very good year.

Durham drops Brave netters

Durham had little trouble beating the Modoc Braves volleyball team in the second round of the North Section Playoffs. They beat the Braves 25-14, 25-11 and 25-12.
Durham went on the beat Mt. Shasta and played Colusa for the section title.
Modoc released no statistics for the Durham match.

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December 4, 2014

News

Alturas woman arrested following chase in stolen vehicle

Following a somewhat bizarre effort to register one alleged stolen vehicle last week, an Alturas woman led law enforcement on a long chase in a separate stolen vehicle before she was stopped and arrested.
The case involves two counties, Modoc and Shasta, the Alturas Police Department, Shasta Sheriff’s Office and the California Highway Patrol.
The CHP arrest of Nina Astrid Sidener, 41, of Alturas, last Monday also resulted in the recovery of a Modoc County Watermaster pickup that had been stolen as part of a September burglary of the Alturas Elks Lodge. Sidener was driving that pickup when she was stopped.
According to Alturas Chief of Police Ken Barnes, Sidener had gone to the Fall River Department of Motor Vehicles to register a Ford pickup in her daughter’s name. That pickup had been taken for test drive from Miguel Quezada’s home in Alturas by the daughter Jessie Smith, but was not returned. Quezada had reported the vehicle stolen the next day and Barnes entered that information into the stolen vehicle database.
Smith said she had purchased the vehicle, but Quezada said that purchase never happened.
When Nina Sidener tried to register it, the stolen vehicle information popped up and Sidener became suspicious, said Barnes. According to the CHP, the DMV had notified them of the stolen vehicle hit.

Rain not impacting drought yet

While southern and middle California are being deluged with rain, Modoc has just received a slight dose, and much less than anything that would get the area out of the extreme drought conditions.
November had total precipitation of .93 inches, but that’s far less than the 1.79-inch average for the month. While December is starting out cool and damp, little precipitation has been measured, just .04 inches as of Wednesday. The forecast for the next 10 days call for overcast skies, but no real rain. There is supposed to be a large storm lurking off the Pacific coast, but current forecasts for this area show only marginal precipitation.
The storm of the last 10 days has resulted in some snow pack in the Warner Mountains. Dismal Swamp at 7,000 feet measures 13 inches, Adin Pass has two inches at 6,200 feet and Cedar Pass at 7,100 feet has six inches.

Quakes tapering off in Valley 

During the last week there have been 73 earthquakes recorded in the west Sheldon swarm. This represents a significant downturn in the events that have been occurring since mid-July.
“The thousands of earthquakes in the last several months are the strongest of the swarm-type sequences recorded in Nevada in recent history, with its current count of 12 magnitude 4.0 plus events since it began in July,” states Ken Smith, Seismic Network Manager in the University of Nevada Reno, Reno’s Nevada Seismological Laboratory.
The Seismological Lab has located 1,350 earthquakes, but thousands more that are taking place can’t be located because of the small number of seismic stations in the area.
To better monitor and collect data on the quakes in this remote area real-time seismographs have been installed closer to the activity.
“We’ve been in contact with local residents and they’ve been very helpful in finding locations to install this additional instrumentation,” said Graham Kent, Director of the Seismology Laboratory.

Pacific Power asks for rate increase

Pacific Power has filed a request with the California Public Utilities Commission for a .6 percent rate increase. If approved, the rate increase would be effective January 1, 2015.
According to Pacific Power the rate increase for a typical residential customer using 900 kilowatt-hours would amount to about 85 cents per month.

Obituaries—

Leo “Tine Crabtree
Longtime Modoc rancher and railroad worker Leo “Tine” Crabtree, 89, born January 12, 1924, passed away November 22, 2014 in Nampa, Idaho following a short illness. A memorial will follow in the Spring of 2015.

Richard Hamel
Richard Ward “Rich” Hamel of Likely, passed away November 14, 2014 in Alturas, California.
Rich was born a fourth-generation Hamel cattleman on August 18, 1934 in Sacramento and grew up in Davis, CA.
A Celebration of his life will be held in early summer 2015.
Memorial donations may be directed to the Likely Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 515, Likely, CA 96116.

Barbara Hanks
Barbara M. Hanks, 89, of Lake City, California, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14, 2014 at Lake District Hospital, Lakeview, Oregon.
Barbara was born on May 19, 1925. She was born in Old Weston, Huntingdonshire, Cambridge England, the only daughter of the late Frank and Elizabeth Alice (Goodfellow) Turner.
A memorial service was held Friday, November 28 at the Surprise Valley Community Church, Cedarville, CA, followed by a private graveside service at the Fort Bidwell Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Surprise Valley Community Church, PO Box 187, Cedarville, CA 96104; or the Dr. Roberts Fund, c/o Surprise Valley Community Hospital, PO Box 246, Cedarville, CA 96104.

Ray Tripp
Word of the passing of Mr. Ray O. Tripp was received this week from his daughter Jenny Clark of Medford. Mr. Tripp passed away on November 10, 2014 in Medford, Oregon. After he retired from Surprise Valley Electrification Corp., Mr. Tripp moved to Chico back in the early 90s. He was a loyal Modoc Record subscriber.

Larry Birge
Alturas resident Larry E. Birge, age 72, died November 29, 2014 in Reno, Nevada. He was born September 11, 1942.
A celebration of life will be held in January with a full obituary published in the near future. According to family, he’s now playing music with his buddies in the sky.

Tom Coleman Price
Tom Coleman Price, son of Thomas and Rhonda (Coleman) Price was born September 23, 1971 in Oakland, California and entered into his eternal life with his Lord and Savior on November 23, 2014 in Siloam Springs, Arkansas at the age of 43 years and 2 months.
Cole grew up in Alturas, California and graduated from Elk Grove High School in Sacramento.
Visitation was from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, November 27, 2014 at Roberts & Hart Funeral Home, Westville, OK.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 28, 2014 at the First Baptist Church, Westville, OK with Bobby Kennedy and Bryan Lange officiating.  Tom will be laid to rest at the Westville City Cemetery following the service.

Roger Park
Roger Alvin Park passed away October 26, 2014 unexpectedly of Metastatic Cancer, in his beloved home in Adin, CA at the young age of 74.  He was born in Eugene, OR on August 2, 1940.

Lola Peterposten
Lola Peterposten passed away unexpectedly on November 26, 2014, into eternal life with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.Lola was born in Reno, NV to immigrant Italian parents on September 8, 1921.
Funeral services will be held at Grace Church, 1220 Robb Drive, Reno, NV 89523, on Friday, December 5, 2014, at 11:30 a.m.  Private interment will take place at Mountain View Cemetery, Reno.
Arrangements are entrusted to Walton’s Funeral Home, Reno.  Please visit their website, www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com, to leave a remembrance of Lola or a message for her family.

Sports

Cross Country runs at State meet

The Modoc girls’ cross country team finished the season by participating in the CIF State Finals November 29, 2014 at Woodward park in Fresno California.
The MHS team was one of only three public schools teams represented in a field of 24 teams and finished second among public schools.  The experience was an eye opener for the small team as they participated with an elite field of over 300 runners for the first time. They finished 21st overall but that is a major achievement for only a squad of five members. 
"Most teams brought seven representatives to the meet, two only brought six, and we only had five," explained head coach Bill Gouveia.  "I'm very proud of the huge achievements that this small team has accomplished this season." This team is the first girls’ squad to qualify for the state meet since 1997 and as Section Champions they represent the best of 34 teams in division five of the North Section.  The 2014 Championship Lady Braves Team includes three seniors: Madelyn Binning, Casey Burns, and Stephanie Gouveia; one junior; Cindy Cohen; and freshman Taryn Burns.

Modoc looks for good things at Chester

The Modoc Braves wrestling team opens the season Dec. 5-6 at the Chester tournament and will host the huge Modoc Northeast Classic tournament here Dec. 12-13.
Tough teams at Chester include last year’s winner Sutter, plus Fernley, Nv. Las Plumas, and some other big Reno teams.
Early this season the first team crew looks like this: 106 pounds, Brandon Hays, freshman; 113 pounds, Lane Galvin, freshman; 120 pounds, Cody Tiffany, senior; 126 pounds, Kyle Royce, sophomore; 132 pounds, Timmy Reed, junior; 138 pounds, Steven Aceves, senior; 145 pounds, Zack Norby, sophomore; 152 pounds open; 160 pounds Jarrett Royce, junior; 170 pounds, Travis McCulley, senior; 182 pounds, Robert Dowdy, junior; 195 pounds, Haydn Alverson, junior; 220 pounds, Tristan Osborne, junior; heavyweight Allen Clark, senior, Troy Culp, junior. Also on the squad are Dillon Egle 145 pounds, John Irish 140 pounds, Jerry Sloan 106 pounds and Josh Vierria at 130 pounds.

Braves open against Chester today

The varsity boys basketball season begins December 4 at the Block F Tournament in McArthur.  Modoc tips off with Chester at 4 p.m. on Thursday.
“The Volcanoes are a tough opponent, led by 6'6" senior Wyatt Durkin, who set a Block F scoring record last year, with 40 points in a game,” said coach Keith Weber.  "We will have quite a challenge slowing down Durkin.”
Alan Weber, Tyler Ewing, Tyler Doss, and Brian Cabrera are Modoc's only returning lettermen. New faces include seniors Austin Cook, Cameron Johnston and Phillip Thompson.  Rounding out the team will be juniors Jordan Wade, Jonas Collier and sophomore, Collin Martin.  

Girls open at Fall River

The Modoc Braves girls basketball team will open the season against Fall River today at 2 p.m.
The girls on the team are: Kelly Schmidt, Beth Derner, Pricila Madrigal, Kelsey Sphar, Melissa Knoch, Emily Lowrey, Macie Larranaga and Destiny Lestenkof.
The Braves come into the season with talent and quickness, but no height. The tallest player is 5-7.

Rotary Block M Tournament

The Rotary Block M Tournament is coming to the Modoc High School Griswold Gym in Alturas, December 18 through December 20.
Plan on coming out to support not only the Braves, but all of the athletes during the tournament. Mark your calendar now.

Braves make All league

Several Modoc High School football players were named to the Shasta Cascade League All-League team this year. The Braves placed second in the SCL.
Braves honored were: Alex Valencia linebacker; Tristan Osborne, offensive line; Alan Weber quarterback; Allen Clark offensive line; Jarrett Royce defensive line; Tyler Ewing wide receiver; and Ethan Conger, honorable mention.

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December 11, 2014

News

Big Valley to try 2nd time for ambulance service

The Big Valley EMS Working Group is going to try a second time to pass the Southern Cascades Community Service District to operate an ambulance service in the valley.
The date of a new election will be May 12, 2015. The voters will be asked to form a Community Service District and a $65 per parcel tax, with a two-parcel limit, to create and fund the ambulance district. It will require a two-thirds majority to pass.
A similar measure was placed before the voters in June 2014 and failed by 44 votes. A majority voted in favor of the measures: 58.03 percent for the district and 56.62 percent for the tax in Modoc and 60.61 percent for the district and 59.83 percent for the tax in Lassen. The proposed district includes property owners in Modoc and Lassen Counties.
On Tuesday, Clinton Davis of the BV group appeared before the Modoc County Board of Supervisors requesting its approval to set the May 12 election. He had also gone to the Lassen County Board with that request.
The issue will be placed on a January Supervisors meeting for approval. It requires public notice and public hearings before the Boards can actually set the election.

Big storm on the way?

The National Weather Service is predicting a major wind, rain and snowstorm for this area starting today and through Saturday.
While the area has been damp the past couple of weeks, no drought buster has passed through. But precipitation levels for December are healthy for the first 10 days at .82 inches. That’s well above the normal to date level of .33 inches. Most of that rain, .55 inches, fell on December 3.
The forecast is calling for snow and that would be a welcome sight, especially in the high mountains. At this point, Cedar Pass has three inches at 7,100 feet, Dismal Swamp has 18 inches at 7,000 feet and neither Adin Mountain at 6,000 feet, or Crowder Flat has any snow. Neither Cedar Pass or Adin Pass had any snow Wednesday.

DFG seeks info on poacher

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is asking for the public’s help to catch a poacher.
According to DFG Warden Brian Gallaher, on the weekend of November 15, a poached doe Pronghorn Antelope was found dead near the intersection of County Road 60 and Jones Lane, south of Alturas.  The doe Pronghorn was found with an arrow in it and appeared to have suffered long and needlessly before dying. 
“If you witnessed this incident or have any information about this or any other wildlife violation, immediately dial the toll free CalTIP number 1 888 DFG-CALTIP (888-334-2258), 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Gallaher. “Be prepared to give the fullest possible account of the incident including the name, address, age and description of the suspect, vehicle description, direction of travel, license number, type of violation and when and where it occurred. You do not have to give your name.”
Information from the call is relayed to the Fish and Wildlife region where the offense occurred and an investigation is undertaken locally. If the information supplied by the caller results in an arrest the caller becomes eligible for a reward (Rewards up to $1,000 have been paid.).

Flournoy to lead California Cattlemen’s Association

Fourth generation Likely, Modoc rancher, Billy Flournoy was recently elected the newest president of the California Cattlemen’s Association (CCA), among more than 600 members of the California cattle ranching community who met at John Ascuaga’s Nugget in Sparks, Nev. for the 98th CCA and California CattleWomen, Inc. (CCW) Annual Convention.
Flournoy operates Likely Land and Livestock Company with his wife, Athena, alongside his brothers, John and David. Previously serving as the president of the Modoc County Cattlemen’s Association, a member of the Public Lands Council and a long-time member of CCA’s public lands committee, Flournoy brings valuable experience to CCA.
“Though it will be hard to fill the post held by so many men before me, whom I respect, I am thankful for this opportunity,” Flournoy said. “As president, I hope to continue the good work that CCA does on behalf of its members, especially in the public lands arena and maintain good relationships with the organizations that will help us make progress.”
During his two year term as president, Flournoy will travel the state to ensure that cattlemen are well represented in Sacramento and in Washington, D.C.

Obituaries—

Vernon Ralph Nelson
Former Alturas resident Vernon Ralph Nelson, 95, a resident of Gooding, Idaho, passed away Monday, November 17, 2014 at Ashley Manor in Twin Falls.
Vernon was born March 16, 1919, in Owatonna, Minnesota to Albert and Elsie Nelson.  He was raised and educated in Minnesota and South Dakota and California.
A memorial service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2014 at Demaray Funeral Service – Gooding Chapel, 737 Main St., Gooding, Idaho 83330.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary link at www.demarayfuneralservice.com.

Lillian Nelson
Former Alturas resident Lillian Nelson, 92,who was more recently a resident of Gooding, Idaho, passed away Thursday, December 4, 2014 at her home in Gooding.
Lillian was born April 1, 1922, in South Dakota to William and Alvina Barkl. 
A memorial service was held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, December 8, 2014 at Demaray Funeral Service – Gooding Chapel, 737 Main St., Gooding, Idaho 83330.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary link at www.demarayfuneralservice.com.

Johnny W. James
Johnny William James, born June 3, 1943 in Klamath Falls, Oregon to Anna and James James, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014 in Medford, Oregon. Services for Johnny will be Saturday December 13 at 11 a.m. at Litwiller-Simonsen Funeral Home located at 1811 Ashland Street, Ashland Oregon, with reception to follow.

Franklin L. Moyles
Franklin Lester Moyles who had recently returned to Surprise Valley and Lake City from Manchester, CA, passed away December 6, 2014 in Cedarville, CA. He was 78. His services will be held at 11 a.m. on December 20 at Manchester Grange, with interment at the Evergreen Cemetery in Manchester, CA.
Franklin was born October 14, 1936 in Fort Bragg, CA.
Donations may be made to: Manchester Grange or Surprise Valley Health Care District.

Sports

Braves host huge wrestling tourney this week

Modoc’s wrestling team hosts the huge North East Classic wrestling tournament this weekend at the Griswold Gym. There will be 19 schools participating, coming from California, Oregon and Nevada.
Coach Shaun Wood said there are some pretty tough schools heading this way. Some of the favorites with Modoc are Christian Brothers of Sacramento, Lassen, Anderson, Paradise, Mazama and Klamath Union and Oroville.
Wrestling begins with the dual team matches at 1 p.m. Friday and the tourney continues starting Saturday at 9 a.m. Wood believes the championship matches will probably start around 5:30 p.m. Saturday.
“It’s going to be a dog fight,” Wood said. “We have some high quality teams coming and it should be exciting. I expect our guys to do well.”
The Braves are coming off a good second place finish at the Chester Tournament. Lassen won that tourney with 190 points, Modoc had 169, Willows 152, Lovelock 127, Las Plumas 101, Chester 72, Sparks 49, Quincy 48, Etna 41, Modoc II 41, Fall River 35, Live Oak 21, Trinity 11, Big Valley 11 and Tulelake 5.

Modoc girls drop opening game

The Modoc varsity girls’ team lost its opening game to Fall River 46-42 in Fall River last week. They are in the Portola tourney this weekend where they will meet Portola, Biggs and Quincy.
Fall River led 12-9 in the first period and 25-22 at halftime. Modoc cooled in the third period and the Bulldogs took a 37-26 lead after three. Modoc came back with a 16-9 fourth period, but couldn’t make up the difference.

Braves go 1-2 in Block F Tourney

Chester defeated Modoc 64-32 in the opening round of the Block Tournament in McArthur last Thursday. They go to the Portola tourney this weekend.
Modoc beat Hayfork 84-50 in the second round of the Block F.
Big Valley beat the Braves 65-53 in the consolation game of the Block FThe Braves will look to rebound this next weekend in Portola at the Tiger Classic.
Modoc ‘s junior varsity placed second at Fall River, losing the final game 57-48. Named to the All-Tourney team were Daren Gonzalez, Tanner Cook and Jesse Picotte.

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December 18, 2014

News

Mountains are getting good snow

The long line of wet storms has perked up attitudes about the drought, but it’s still way too early to get too excited, according to weather experts.
This week has been wet and the weather pattern stays that way though the weekend. The good new this week is the increasing snow levels in the mountains.
Cedar Pass has gone from three inches at 7,100 feet last week to nine inches this week and more predicted. Dismal Swamp now records 27 inches, up from 18 at 7,000 feet. Adin Mountain records eight inches of snow, up from six. On Tuesday, Crowder Flat had three inches, up from none.
December is turning out to be a better month for precipitation.  As of Tuesday, 1.52 inches of moisture has been measured this month, well above the normal to date of .53 inches. The full month average for December is 1.71 inches.

Board agrees to purchase of courthouse elevator

The effort to have an elevator installed at the Modoc County Courthouse took a big step forward Tuesday as the Board of Supervisors accepted a bid for the elevator itself, in the amount of $82,470.
The low bid came from National Lift Company for a LULA elevator manufactured by SAVARIA.
Modoc County Chief Administrative Officer Chester Robertson said the construction phase of the project is now out for bid and those bids should be in and opened just after Christmas.
The elevator will go on southeast portion of the Courthouse and the engineer’s design has it blending into the structure. The engineer’s estimate for the construction phase is about $170,000 putting the elevator project cost estimate at $262,470. The funds come from a state Parks and Recreation grant. Robertson said the deadline for completion is March 23.

Fed budget has some good news for counties

The strange federal budget passed by both houses of the U.S. Congress and signed this week has some good and bad news in it, but it does have some needed funding for counties.
The House passed a sweeping $1.1 trillion omnibus appropriations package on December 11 following a tense, protracted debate over the inclusion of several controversial policy riders. The Senate passed it this week.
According to the County Supervisors Association of California, CSAC, in a major win for California's counties, the final spending legislation provides $372 million for the Payments-in-lieu-of-Taxes (PILT) program. The funding, combined with the $70 million for PILT that was included in the Department of Defense authorization bill (HR 3979), will bring total PILT funding for fiscal year 2015 to $442 million (slightly more than the fiscal year 2014 level of $436.9 million).

SV playa cracks getting more study

One of the most viewed points of interest in Surprise Valley has been the huge cracks that are developing on the playa north of the causeway.
Nevada State Geologist Jim Faulds suggests the cracks could be forming as the result of several reasons. He talked to John Bell, a fellow scientist and expert on fissures. After looking at photos of the cracks, he commented that “These are fissures and there could be several possible causes: tectonic, groundwater/geothermal pumping, or giant desiccation cracks.  One would have to evaluate each possibility.  If tectonic, they could be evidence for a seismic strain, which I have suspected in a couple of cases. If pumping related, one would look for nearby activities and subsidence.  If desiccation, they would generally parallel the margin of the dry lake or form giant polygons. Large cracks like these on playas are fairly common, but I would not rule out tectonic strain with all the earthquake activity that has happened.”
Gail Mahood, a geology professor at Stanford University has been studying calderas east of Cedarville for approximately 20 years. She was in Cedarville recently and wanted to examine the cracks.
Hiking out on the increasingly wet playa, she pointed out some small cracks and likened them to the larger ones.
 “If you look at the small cracks that are forming in the drying puddles you notice they’re polygonal in shape. Then take a look at the larger cracks, they’re also polygonal. My guess is that nature is repeating the dessication cracks on a much larger scale,” said Mahood
She explained that the drought and irrigation pumping caused stress to build up below the surface and the recent rains are acting as a lubricant to set loose the stress and form the cracks.

Obituaries –
Larry Edward Birge
Larry Birge was the eldest of four children born to Ernest Edward and Dorothy Helen (Metcalf) Birge, on September 11, 1942 in Berkeley, CA. He died November 29, 2014 in Reno.
A  Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 2 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Alturas, CA.

Mary Rice
Mary Rice of Alturas passed away on December 11, 2014 in Alturas at the Warnerview Convalescent Hospital. She was born on August 12, 1940.
A celebration of life will be held on December 20, 2014, at 1 p.m., at the Veterans’ Memorial Hall on So. Main Street, in Alturas. A potluck will follow the services. Mrs. Rice’s obituary will follow in a future issue.

Sports

Braves win NE Classic team title

Modoc’s wrestling team won their North East Classic wrestling tournament held here last weekend, over some much bigger schools and 25 teams.
The Braves won with 175.5 points, followed by Anderson second 158, Henley third 150, Klamath Union 112, Mazama 89, Lassen 85, Chester 78, Crane 75, Lakeview 70, Etna 54, Chiloquin 48, Modoc II 40.50, Fall River 31, Lakeview II 28, Quincy 22, Crane II 17, Mazama II 16, Tulelake 13, Lassen II nine, Klamath Union II seven, Bonanza 5.5, Etna JV two.
Modoc had three individual champions: Cody Tiffany at 120 pounds, Steven Aceves at 138 pounds and Alex Valencia at 160 pounds.
The Braves head to the Grants Pass Tournament Dec. 19-20.

Modoc goes 1-2 in Portola

Modoc lost to Quincy 73-53 in the opening round of the Tiger Classic in Portola on Friday. The Braves play host to the Rotary Block M Tournament this weekend.
Portola beat Modoc 50-36.
 The Braves started slow again against Biggs, trailing 14-6 in the first, but fought back to trail 25-17 at halftime. The Braves pumped in 26 point in the third to take a 43-38 lead and went on to the 56-43 win.

Girls win two in Portola

The Modoc girls’ varsity placed second in the Portola Tournament after losing to Quincy, 47-41. The girls will be at home this weekend in the Rotary Block M Tourney.
Because of the weather, Modoc had to play Portola less then two hours later and upset them 41-29.
On Saturday Biggs beat Biggs 38-27.
Modoc junior varsity girls beat Portola 33-27 in their opener, then Quincy beat the Braves 38-33 in a tight game.
The Braves beat Biggs in the final outing 42-28. Modoc JV girls won the championship. It was a three-way tie (Modoc, Portola and Quincy) so it came down to free-throw percentage. Modoc beat Quincy by four percent with a 49 percent average.

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December 25, 2014

News

New crisis at SV Hospital District

At the Dec. 17 Surprise Valley Hospital’s Board of Director’s meeting, the recently hired Chief Executive Officer, Richard Cornwell staged what many are calling either a sneaky hostile takeover or coup.
Cornwell read his letter, “Senior leadership staff and I place a vote of no confidence in the board of directors of Surprise Valley Healthcare District and request that the board tenure their resignations effective immediately.”
He went on to read charges against each board member and then hand each of them a prepared letter of resignation to sign.
All board members were shocked and three board members, Jason Diven, Bunne Hartmann and Cindy Linker signed the proffered papers, resigned and left the room.
Without a quorum the meeting was adjourned.
 “There is a sense of urgency here or I wouldn’t call a special board meeting during the holidays. We want to be thorough and do things right,” said District 1 Supervisor Dave Allan.

Modoc jobless rate ticks up

The unemployment rate in Modoc for November 2014 ticked up from October’s 8.0 percent to 9.2 percent, according to the state Employment Development Department.
The Modoc civilian labor force took a big hit, dropping from October’s 3,760 to 3,560. The number of employed was 3,230 with 330 unemployed. That compared to October when 3,460 were employed and 300 unemployed. Last November, the labor force was 3,640 with 3,250 employed and 390 unemployed. The jobless rate at that time was 10.7 percent.
Total farm labor dropped for 540 in October to 340 in November while total non-farm labor dropped from 2,280 to 2,260.
Government employment dropped from 1,240 to 1,230. Government jobs were as follows: local 930; state 70; federal 230. Government accounts for about 39 percent of Modoc employment.
Modoc’s 9.2 percent unemployment rate ranks it 42nd out of the states 58 counties for highest unemployment. Siskiyou ranks 47th at 10.1 percent and Lassen 38th at 8.7 percent.
The state unemployment rate was 7.1 percent and the federal rate was 5.5 percent.

December precipitation above average

The month of December will put a dent in the drought, but it’s going to take several more wet months before people can breath easier.
Precipitation to date for the month is 1.96 inches, well above the normal to date of .86 inches and beating the monthly average of 1.71 inches. More storms are heading this way. The National Weather Service is predicting more than a half-inch of moisture over the next few days.
Most of the precipitation fell as rain this last week, cutting into the snow pack. There is some snow predicted over the next five days and that could bring those levels up.
Cedar Pass now has seven inches of snow at 7,100 feet. That’s down from 11 inches Dec. 18. On Tuesday Cedar Pass was clear of snow.
Adin Mountain has four inches of snow and that’s down from eight inches on Dec. 18 at 6,190 feet.
Dismal Swamp still has 32 inches of snow, down just slightly from Dec. 22 when it recorded 34 inches at 7,000 feet.
Crowder Flat had three inches of snow on Dec. 17, but all of that has disappeared.

Obituaries—

Criscilla R. James
Criscilla Raye James won her entry to be by the Lord’s side on December 19, 2014.  Cris passed away in peace, with her family by her side, fighting a brilliant battle against cancer. 
Cris was born July 17, 1949 to Betty White-Hankins and Paul Ash in Alturas, California. 

Dee Ashby
Dee Ashby of Alturas passed away with her family surrounding her on Dec. 8, 2014 at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. She was born Dee Parsons on June 8, 1935 in Burns, Oregon where she spent most of her life, until moving to Alturas in 1968.
Dee was preceded in death by her mom, dad, three sisters and brother.
A celebration of life will take place later in the summer of 2015 in Burns, Oregon.

Ellen Jade Thornton
Jade’s spirit drifted off this mortal coil on December 13, 2014 from Lake City, CA and is now busy exploring the universe. Born Ellen Jade Peterson, on October 3, 1956 to Laura (Lari) and Merle B. Peterson in Colville, WA. 
A private service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Eagle Peak Wildlife Care P.O. Box 6 Eagleville, CA 96110.

Sports

Braves do well at Grants Pass matches

Modoc’s wrestling team took ninth place out of 37 schools at the Grants Pass Tournament last weekend. They beat some really big schools including Medford, Anderson and finished just 11 points behind last year’s California Master’s champion Sutter.
“I was really pleased,” said coach Shaun Wood. “Other coaches believe we’re a lot bigger school than we are.”
Tristan Osborne won the 220-pound championship, pinning all of his opponents along the way. He pinned his finals opponent in the second round.
Troy Culp took a second in the heavyweight class and Wood said he wrestled very well the entire tourney.
Jarrett Royce took a sixth place at 160 pounds, a very tough division.
Other wrestlers who did well included Cody Tiffany, Tim Reed, Brandon Hays, Zach Norby and Lane Galvin.  Alex Valencia was injured in the event and was pulled out of the competition.
Modoc heads to Reno Dec. 29-30 for the Sierra Nevada Classic, which attracts 80 schools and about 1,000 wrestlers.

Lakeview tops Block M tourney

The Lakeview Honkers boys had a good weekend in Alturas winning the Block M Tourney. Modoc ended up taking second.
The Braves opened up the tourney with a 55-25 win over Surprise Valley. Modoc led 18-6 in the first and 33-11 at halftime. Modoc outscored the Hornets 22-14 in the second half.
Tyler Doss led the Braves in scoring with 19 points with Alan Weber scoring 15.
Lakeview defeated Modoc 62-39 in the second round of the Block M Tournament. The Braves struggled to score; only shooting 24 percent from the field.
Lakeview didn’t have any trouble putting the ball through the hoop. They led 12-6 in the first and 26-18 by half. They blew the game open with a 22-9 third period and outscored the Braves 14-12 in the fourth.
Weber led with 19 points and Tyler Ewing added 12 and 10 rebounds.
Modoc defeated the Yreka JV's 55-37 to place second in the Block M Tournament. Yreka did not send a varsity team.

Modoc girls split in Block M

The Modoc varsity girls’ team went 1-2 in Block M action over the weekend.
The Braves beat the Surprise Valley Hornets 36-24 in the opening game. They led 7-1 in the first and 18-10 by half. Modoc scored 18 in the second half and the Hornets scored 14.
Pricila Madrigal led with 11 points, Kelly Schmidt added eight, Beth Derner seven and Melissa Knoch six.
Lakeview crushed the Braves 68-39 in the second game. The Honkers led 20-7 in the first and 37-22 at halftime. Lakeview pumped in 22 points to Modoc’s five in the third and cruised for the win.
Derner led with 12 points and Schmidt added 10.
The tourney champion, Lost River also slammed the Braves 59-16. Lost River led 14-6 in the first and 38-8 by halftime.

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