2016 Archives

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January 2016 January 7, 2016 January 14, 2016 January 21, 2016 January 28, 2016 February 2016 February 4, 2016 February 11, 2016 February 18, 2016 February 25, 2016 March 2016 March 3, 2016 March 10, 2016 March 17, 2016 March 24, 2016 March 31, 2016 April 2016 April 7, 2016 April 14, 2016 April 21, 2016 April 28, 2016 May 2016 May 5, 2016 May 12, 2016 May 19, 2016 May 26, 2016 June 2016 June 2, 2016 June 9, 2016 June 16, 2016 June 23, 2016 June 30, 2016

July 2016 July 7, 2016 July 14, 2016 July 21, 2016 July 28, 2016 August 2016 August 4, 2016 August 11, 2016 August 18, 2016 August 25, 2016 Sept. 2016 Sept. 1, 2016 Sept. 8, 2016 Sept. 15, 2016 Sept. 22, 2016 Sept. 29, 2016 October 2016 Oct. 6, 2016 Oct. 13, 2016 Oct. 20, 2016 Oct. 27, 2016 November 2016 Nov. 3, 2016 Nov. 10, 2016 Nov. 17, 2016 Nov. 24, 2016 December 2016 Dec. 1, 2016 Dec. 8, 2016 Dec. 15, 2016 Dec. 22, 2016 Dec. 29, 2016

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2016 Archives

January 7, 2016

News

Good Samaritans rescue starving horse

It's not unusual to see wild horses east of Cedarville near the Nevada border, so no one really paid attention to the lone sorrel standing beside the road a couple of weeks ago.
As days went by the horse remained near the road, walking up to cars that stopped to see it. One thing for certain was that this was not a wild horse.
Each day the horse got thinner. The snow-covered ground hid the scant forage available. There was no water to drink. (Contrary to the movies, neither horse nor human can survive eating snow, they will die of dehydration as the energy used to warm the snow for the body to use, exceeds the nourishment it gives). The temperatures dropped to minus 30 degrees at night and hovered around zero during the day.
The group of concerned locals grew. Some fed and watered the horse each day, others researched what to do. Authorities in Nevada and California were called. Eventually its owner was found. When contacted the owner said he'd been looking for the horse, however he was working in Davis at this time. A friend of his offered to haul the horse to the Nevada ranch where the two men worked.
Last Monday night a compassionate family offered to house and feed the horse until it found a new home. Tuesday morning the papers of sale were signed and the ownership of the horse was transferred.
It was soon learned that Scooter had been a working cow horse his entire life, around 20 years. In giving his all, he had permanently damaged his front knees. He's not as fast as he was in his youth, but when he regains his strength he will be able to walk well enough to be a kid's horse. He is a quiet and extremely gentle animal.
Just as he remained hopeful, looking for help when standing and starving by the roadside, his new owners hope they'll be able to find a caring home for him.
In the meantime he's with a family who took the time to stop, take that second glance and decided to share their compassion and care for the determined little cow horse.
If a tame horse is found wandering loose on public lands please call the BLM or US Forest Service and report it.

Propane goof makes for cold day

During the last two weeks some residents in Surprise Valley experienced a real cold taste of winter up close and personal.
The two primary propane distributors in Surprise Valley, Amerigas and Ed Staub and Sons state that new personnel who weren't familiar with their routes caused some residents of SV to go without heat while outside temperatures dropped below zero.
The distributors both indicated they were sorry that some of their customers fell through the cracks and ran out of propane.
One 100-year-old man walked home after eating out, only to find his propane tank empty. The temperature outside was minus 12 degrees and he said it felt almost that cold inside.
On another morning, a business in Cedarville found itself with all its products frozen and no usable restrooms for their employees.
In both cases the customers were on automatic check and refill programs with their suppliers. In each case the distributors responded immediately to fill their customer's propane tanks.

Records moved to Assessor’s Office

Modoc County has decided to move the Recorder’s Office into the Assessor’s Office and that transition took place this week. The actual legal change will occur at the next election for county offices.
The move is to make the search for records more efficient for the public.
“As of today (Wednesday) all the vital statistics are in the Assessor's Office,” said Assessor Cheri Budmark. “All other books and records will be moved to the Assessor's Office on Thursday of this week.”
The public can access them in the Courthouse at 204 S Court Street, Room 106.  

SVHCD ambulance service interrupted

From early New Year's Day until Monday afternoon, residents of Surprise Valley were without their ambulance service.
The interruption in this vital service was not made known to the public. During this time multiple inquiries, by various people and agencies, to the Surprise Valley hospital administrator Richard Cornwell were not answered.
The Modoc County Sheriff's Office dispatch was contacted by Cornwell on January 1 and instructed to forward all 911 calls to Modoc Medical Center in Alturas.
Modoc Medical Center was never officially informed that SV Hospital was transferring their ambulance calls to MMC.
Kevin Kramer, MMC administrator, said, “If Surprise Valley Hospital would have informed us, we would have done our best to provide extra ambulance coverage to the Valley until SV's ambulance service could be restored. We would have anyway without notification, but it would have been best to hire extra personnel in case of an emergency.”
Since calls to Cornwell by concerned officials were not being answered, the state was alerted to the situation. They established contact with Cornwell and were informed that the SV ambulance service was going to be re-established by Monday afternoon.
The Sheriff's Office Dispatch was then notified that 911 calls made in the Valley could now be taken by the SV Hospital.

Obituaries—

W.B. Snethen III

Warren Benjamin Snethen III, 37, of Modesto, CA, died suddenly and unexpectedly Jan. 4, 2016 in Pueblo, Colorado while visiting. He was born Feb. 3, 1978, in Pomona, CA.
No services will be held.

Sports

Wrestlers head to Anderson tourney

Modoc’s wrestling team is finishing the toughest part of its early schedule at the NorCal Tourney in Anderson January 8-9.
The Braves competed in the huge Sierra Nevada tournament in Reno January 20-30. That event attracts some of the top wrestlers throughout the region and Modoc coach Shaun Wood said about 1,000 wrestlers were involved.
That works out to about 90 wrestlers per weight division. In fact wrestlers had to win an opening match just to get into the 64-person bracket.
“It’s always tough, but I believe this year’s was the toughest,” said Wood.
Modoc 152-pound Zach Norby went 3-2 in the event, but did not place. He said the rest of the team wrestled very well, but the competition was extreme.
The previous week they went to another huge tourney at Grants Pass. Heavyweight Troy Culp and 120-pound Brandon Hays finished one match out of placing.
The NorCal event will bring wrestlers from throughout the northwest and some that are new to the event. Wood believes several of his wrestlers will do well and should place.
He expects good showings from Hays, Norby, Culp, Tim Reed at 138 pounds, Chance Galvin at 113 pounds and Lane Galvin at 126 pounds. He also expects some of his other wrestlers to provide some surprises.

Modoc boys fall to Fall River

Modoc’s varsity boy’s basketball team suffered through a two-of-19 shooting fourth quarter and fell to the Fall River Bulldogs Tuesday 51-37.
Modoc heads to Mt. Shasta Friday and is at Lakeview January 13.
The Braves trailed 11-7 in the first quarter but held the Bulldogs to no points in the second and went into halftime leading 18-11. Fall River got hot in the third quarter, outscoring Modoc 24-11 and taking a 35-29 lead into the final period where they outscored Modoc 16-8 for the win.
Modoc Coach Jim Widby said the Braves could not buy a basket and scored on only two three-pointers and two free throws in that period.
Modoc’s jayvees opened SCL league play with a win over Fall River. Modoc led 15-3 in the first period and Fall River cut that to 25-20 at the half. The game stayed tight through the third with Modoc maintaining a 43-36 lead. The Braves won the fourth period 21-7 for the 64-43 win.

Modoc girls come up short at Fall River

Fall River’s Bulldogs took a 20-4 lead in the first period against the Modoc varsity girl’s team Tuesday and led 35-8 by half. Fall River went on for a 55-26 win in the opening Shasta Cascade League game.
Modoc heads to Mt. Shasta Friday and to Lakeview Jan. 13.

Elks Hoop Shoot contest for youth

Boys and girls ages 8-13 as of April 1, 2016, are invited to participate in the Alturas Elks annual Hoop Shoot basketball free throw contest to be held Friday, Jan. 8 at 3 p.m.
Sign up free at 3 p.m. in the Modoc Middle School Gym on West Fourth St., Alturas. Three age divisions determined by age as of April 1. No parental form required.
Qualifying participants have the opportunity to advance to the next level to be held in Quincy and on to the Nationals.
The Alturas Elks Lodge 1756 sponsors the local contest.

Modoc sports—

Modoc basketball teams go to Mt. Shasta January 8.  Games start at 4 p.m. They travel to Lakeview Jan. 13. Games start at 4 p.m.
Modoc wrestlers are at the NorCal in Anderson Jan. 8-9.
Surprise Valley basketball heads to Butte Valley Jan. 8 and has Tulelake at home Jan. 12. Game time is 5 p.m.

January 14, 2016

News

County adopts wild horse position paper

The Devil’s Garden Wild Horse issue has been festering for years, and has spiraled out of control according go Modoc County. In an effort to get something moving, Supervisors on Tuesday adopted a formal position paper and forwarded it to the Modoc National Forest.
“It was important for us to adopt a position so we can see what the differences are between us and the Forest,” said Modoc Resource Analyst Sean Curtis. “This is an effort to get some movement on the Wild Horse situation on Devil’s Garden.”
The letter to MNF Supervisor Amanda McAdams stressed the problem with the horse population on the Garden and cites area of concern and possible resolution. A meeting is set for today between County Officials and Forest Officials.
“The Modoc County Board of Supervisors (County) recognizes that the excess numbers of wild horses within and adjacent to the Devil's Garden Wild Horse Territory is currently the most serious threat to both the environment and socio-economics of our area,” the letter states. “We recognize the essential need to work together to fully implement the Wild Horse Territory Plan (WHTP) promptly and effectively. To that end, the County has adopted the position paper regarding management of wild horses on the Modoc National Forest (Forest). This action references the wild horses residing on both federal and non-federal lands.”

Public hearing on marijuana ban

A Modoc Planning Commission public hearing on the County’s proposed ordinance to ban commercial cultivation, processing and dispensaries of marijuana in the County will be held Jan. 27, 10 a.m. at the Planning Department on Eighth Street.
The proposed ordinance does not impact personal use cultivation of medicinal marijuana, but has strict prohibitions on commercial entities. The ordinance needs to be approved and in place by a state deadline of March 1.

New wolf detected in Modoc

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, a new wolf has been discovered in Modoc County.
The three-year-old male, which is radio-collared, named OR-25 by the Oregon state wildlife agency apparently left his birthplace in northeastern Oregon and just recently crossed into California.
According to the Center for Biological Diversity, OR-25 was born into the Imnaha pack in northeastern Oregon, as was OR-7, the wolf who first came to California in 2011 and has since found a mate and had litters of pups in 2014 and 2015. In August 2015, California first wolf family in nearly a century, the Shasta Pack, was confirmed in Siskiyou County. The breeding female of that pack, which has five pups, is also related to the Imnaha pack.

Public hearing on Big Valley ambulance vote

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing January 26, 11 a.m. concerning setting a special election May 3 for the Big Valley Ambulance issue.
The hearing will be held in the Board of Supervisors Room, 204 South Court Street, Alturas, for consideration of the following: to approve of a Resolution calling for a Special Election to be set for May 3, 2016 for the consideration of adopting a Tax Assessment to fund local ambulance, emergency medical response and training of the Southern Cascades Community Services District in Northwestern Lassen County and Southwestern Modoc County.
The Big Valley EMS Working Group supports a Special District election for May 3, 2016 for the formation of the Southern Cascades Community Services District. The election will be mail-in only ballots.

Obituaries—

Dawn Vance-Crumm
Dawn Kristeen Vance-Crumm died December 23, 2015 at her home in Chico, California.  She was born October 19, 1964, in Roseville, California to Robert and Lee Vance.  Dawn grew up in Alturas, California and graduated from Modoc High School.
There will be a celebration of Dawn’s life Saturday, January 16 from 4 - 8 p.m. at the Chico Women's Club, 592 East 3rd Street in Chico, California.  Food, wine, stories and pictures will be shared.  Donations can be made to Pleasant Valley Athletic Boys Soccer Program.

Barbara Weaver
Barbara Weaver was born January 1, 1938, to Clara and Alfred Barnard. She was delivered by a midwife in Prue, Oklahoma, on her sister Hazel's birthday
In honor of Barbara and Gene's 60th anniversary and in celebration of Barbara's life, there will be a free spaghetti luncheon held on Friday, January 15 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Alturas Veterans Hall.

Paul Alan Siegel
On the afternoon of December 22, 2015, Paul Alan Siegel of Alturas, passed away after an eight- month hard fought battle from Melanoma at the age of 64.  He was surrounded by his loving family, at the time of his passing. 
Paul was born January 19, 1951, in St. Louis, MO.
A Celebration of Life will be held January 16, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Federated Church in Alturas.  A potluck lunch reception will follow. 
Paul’s family would like to thank the community for all of their generous help and support that they received during his illness.   Paul always just shook his head in amazement when Karen would tell him what his friends were doing for them.  A special thank you to Dr. Richert, who was just incredibly awesome in treating Paul. 
Paul loved to take kids hunting and fishing, so in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Modoc Youth Sport Shooting Club. Checks should be written to: 4-H Leader Council, 202 W. 4th St., Suite B, Alturas, CA  96101.  Indicate on the memo line- Modoc Youth Sport Shooting Club.

Sports

Modoc sports—

Modoc basketball teams have Weed at home Friday, games start at 4 p.m. and Trinity at home Saturday, games start at 2 p.m.
Modoc wrestlers are at Bonanza Jan. 16.
Surprise Valley basketball has Paisley at home Jan. 16, games start at 5 p.m. and has Happy Camp at McCloud Jan. 19

Modoc wrestlers do well at NorCal

Modoc’s wrestling team placed 11th out of 28 high-powered teams at the NorCal tourney in Anderson last weekend. They travel to Bonanza Saturday.
Brandon Hays, Modoc’s 120-pounder, led the way with a second place finish in his division.
Chance Galvin placed fourth at 113 pounds and brother Lane Galvin placed seventh at 126 pounds.
Zach Norby placed sixth at 152 pounds and Josh Vierria was eighth at 138 pounds.

Bears take bite out of Braves

The Mt. Shasta Bears took a bit out of the Modoc boy’s varsity team Friday night in Mt. Shasta, winning 56-46 in the Braves second Shasta Cascade League game this season.
Modoc has Weed here Friday night and Trinity comes to town Saturday night. Both are SCL games.
Modoc fell behind the Bears 16-12 in the opening period and Mt. Shasta led 28-17 by halftime. Both teams scored 13 in the third period and Modoc won the fourth 16-15, but had too far to make up.
The junior varsity Braves started slow against the Bear, trailing 16-8 in the first quarter and 29-19 by half. Modoc cut the score to 36-29 after three, but the Bears won the fourth 25-17 for the 61-46 win.

Modoc varsity girls fall to Mt. Shasta

Mt. Shasta dismantled the Modoc Braves varsity girl’s team, 57-32 Friday night, there.
Modoc has Weed here Friday night and Trinity on Saturday afternoon.
Mt. Shasta took a 16-5 first quarter lead and turned that into a 25-14 halftime advantage. The Bears outscored Modoc 32-18 in the second half.
The junior varsity girls were the bright spot in Mt. Shasta, winning 55-16. They took a 14-3 lead after one and led 25-6 at halftime. They outscored Mt. Shasta 30-10 in the second half.

Tulelake trounces Hornets

Hornets played the Tulelake Honkers Tuesday night during the first home game of the season. The girl’s varsity lost 30-40.
The boy’s game was intense in the first quarter with Hornets leading 12-10, but by the second quarter the Honkers had seized the court. The game ended 28-68, with the Honkers taking home the victory.
The Hornets play Paisley Mustangs at home on Saturday, January 16 at 5 p.m. Concession stand will be open.

January 21, 2016

News

Dangerous travel situation east of SV needs attention

This Wednesday morning, Jan. 20, Bill Gooch went to work and found a message on his phone at the Washoe County Road Department in Gerlach. It was a chilling message, a call no one wants to make or receive, a call for help made by a desperate caller.
 “If you find my husband and friends out on one of your roads, could you let me know? They are out there and late getting back.”
Last week the Record told the story of an 80-year-old man who was saved from almost certain death by a Washoe County Road Department worker stationed at Vya.
The situation ended well for everyone involved, but could it happen again? Yes, it's not a matter of if, but of when. Just days after finding the old man, a couple was found by a grader operator near the entrance to the Sheldon Antelope Refuge. Their car had slid off the road, they were nearly out of gas, and wondered how far it was to the nearest gas station. They were told “60 miles.”
Then a local cowboy was found stranded and out of fuel.
At 5 a.m. on Jan. 16, Gooch was plowing the 56-mile long stretch of road from Gerlach to the state line south of Eagleville, when he came across a truck and small trailer alongside the road.
“The lugs had broken off the rear wheel and the tire had come off. They were prepared to some extent. They had been there since 9 p.m. the night before and had set up lawn chairs around a campfire to keep warm in the near zero temperatures,” said Gooch.

Public hearing on marijuana ban

A Modoc Planning Commission public hearing on the County’s proposed ordinance to ban commercial cultivation, processing and dispensaries of marijuana in the County will be held Jan. 27, 10 a.m. at the Planning Department on Eighth Street.
The proposed ordinance does not impact personal use cultivation of medicinal marijuana, but has strict prohibitions on commercial entities. The ordinance needs to be approved and in place by a state deadline of March 1.
The County Ordinance does not affect the City of Alturas and the City Council is also addressing the marijuana issue.

Fairgrounds effort continues

Community collaboration was the topic at Tuesday’s fair fundraising committee meeting in Alturas.
When Modoc’ers came together to discuss the efforts to save the Modoc District Fair and its facilities it was apparent that everyone wished to involve the entire county. The group is actively seeking board members in order to form a non-profit 501(c)3 to work in conjunction with the Fairs Board of Directors.
Persons interested in becoming apart of the group may submit a letter of intent with a brief resume to the Modoc District Fair, c/o Fund Raising Committee, P.O. Box 26, Cedarville, CA 96104. Submissions must be received by January 31, 2016. The committee needs a minimum of five board members.
On March 15 the group will host a Ranch, Farm and Garden Exposition. Attendees can look forward to an educational day of presentations, vendors and a luncheon.
The Modoc District Fair also has board positions open since the resignation of Seab McDonald, Ken Roberts, Michelle Anderson and Jeanine Primorac. The office of Governor Jerry Brown makes appointments to the Fair Board and interested persons may visit https://www.gov.ca.gov/s_appointmentsapplication.php to apply for nomination. 
The next Fair Board meeting is Tuesday, January 26 at 6 p.m. in the fairgrounds’ Four Seasons building, Cedarville. Agenda items include an update from the Ad Hoc committee and CDFA on maintaining the grounds for emergency purposes. Visit www.modocfair.com for the full agenda.

Public hearing on Big Valley ambulance

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing January 26, 11 a.m. concerning setting a special election May 3 for the Big Valley Ambulance issue.
The hearing will be held in the Board of Supervisors Room, 204 South Court Street, Alturas, for consideration of the following: to approve of a Resolution calling for a Special Election to be set for May 3, 2016 for the consideration of adopting a Tax Assessment to fund local ambulance, emergency medical response and training of the Southern Cascades Community Services District in Northwestern Lassen County and Southwestern Modoc County.
The Big Valley EMS Working Group supports a Special District election for May 3, 2016 for the formation of the Southern Cascades Community Services District. The election will be mail-in only ballots.

Obituaries -

Lloyd C. Northrup 
Lloyd Clark Northrup, 81, of Alturas, CA, passed away January 17, 2016 in Alturas.  He was born June 30, 1934 in Sacramento, Ca to Orvel and Zona Northrup. Services will be private.

Antonio Cervantes
Antonio Cervantes of Alturas, California, peacefully entered eternity at the age of 89 years, on Monday morning, January 11, 2016. Born to Diodoro and Maria De Jesus Cervantes, Tony was the firstborn of 9 children. He was born in Ayutla, Mexico, (near Acapulco), on October 19, 1926.
A memorial service for Tony Cervantes will be held on July 9 in Alturas. The community is invited to attend.

Karen Marie Murphy
Karen Marie Murphy, aged 60 years, from Clatskanie, Oregon, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 12, 2015, at Oregon Health and Science University.
Karen was born on May 11, 1955, in Vallejo, California to her parents Conrad and Harriet (Morris) Murphy.
The children of Karen Murphy invite you to attend the Celebration of Life scheduled for Saturday, February 13, 2016, at the Clatskanie Baptist Church located at 415 S. Nehalem Street, Clatskanie, Oregon 97016. Cards of Sympathy may be mailed to: Calista Esola, P.O. Box 1571, Clatskanie, Oregon, 97016

Dennis J. Richardson, Sr.
Dennis James Richardson, Sr. was born on October 14, 1952 to Ruth and Leonard Richardson in Colusa County and passed away January 14, 2016 in Redding, California at Mercy Medical Center.
Services for Dennis will be later this spring in April. Donations to help with his burial can be made to Jennifer Richardson, 209 N. Rine St. in Alturas, CA.

Evonne Rose Snow
Evonne Rose Snow, 89, of Alturas, CA passed away on December 23, 2015 from cancer.
There will be a memorial service held at a later date.
Evonne was born in Huntington Park, California on June 25, 1923.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the Humane Society.

Gisela “Nell” Tibbets
Gisela Stahlschmidt Tibbets, 98, of Darrington, WA passed away January 14, 2016, in Everett, WA.  “Nell” or “Nellie,” was born to Oskar and Magdalena (Wollschlager) Stahlschmidt in Comfort, TX on September 28, 1917.
At her request, no formal services will be held.  Public graveside services will be held Monday, January 25 at 1 p.m. at the Alturas Cemetery in Alturas, CA.  All are welcome to gather at 720 E. 4th Street in Alturas for refreshments and visiting afterward.

Anthony R. Alonzo
Anthony Ramon Alonzo, age 61, of Alturas, passed away on November 6, 2015 in Alturas, CA. Mr. Alonzo’s obituary will follow in a future issue.

Sports

Modoc sports—

Modoc basketball teams were at Burney last night and have Fall River at home Jan. 29, game times start at 4 p.m. Etna comes to Modoc Jan. 30.
Modoc wrestlers areat  Fall River Jan. 23.
Surprise Valley basketball goes to Big Valley Jan. 22, games start at 5 p.m.; and to Hayfork Jan. 23, with games starting at 1:30 p.m.

Modoc wrestlers have split duty

Modoc’s wrestling team will try to be in two places Saturday, providing the roads are clear to the coast.
Coach Shaun Wood will be taking the veterans to Eureka and the rest of the team will be competing at Fall River. State Route 299 has been hit by landslides this week, but was open as of Wednesday. If the team can’t make it to Eureka, they’ll stop at Fall River.
Modoc placed third at the Bonanza tourney last week, being down several of their regular wrestlers.
Zach Norby won the 145-pound division, while Brandon Hays was second at 120 pounds, Haydn Alverson was second at 195 pounds and Alanis Reep was second at 106 pounds.
Taking third place were: Heath Evangel at 126 pounds, Tim Reed at 130 pounds, Kaleb Duran at 145 pounds and Troy Culp at heavyweight.
Josh Vierria was fourth at 140 pounds and Will Biggerstaff was fifth at 160 pounds.

Modoc splits in league hoop action

The Modoc boy’s varsity basketball team beat the Weed Cougars last week, but fell to Lakeview and Trinity.
The Braves, now 4-11 overall and 1-3 in the Shasta Cascade League, were in Burney last night after press time and Fall River comes to town Jan. 29.
The Lakeview game went into overtime where the Honkers won. Modoc led 14-9 in the first period and 31-21 by halftime. Lakeview scored 15 to Modoc’s five in the third period, tying the game and each team scored in the fourth to end regulation tied at 47. Lakeview win the overtime period 9-2 for the win.
Daren Gonzalez led with 18 points, Collin Martin had 13 and Tyler Doss added seven. Jeremiah Brownlow and Gonzalez each pulled down seven rebounds and Zac Bickford had six.
Modoc beat Weed 58-42 in a home game Friday. The Braves led 17-13 in the opening period and 32-17 by half. The outscored the Cougars 26-25 in the second half.
Gonzalez led with 21 points, Brownlow added 12 and Tanner Cook eight. Brownlow also had eight rebounds.
Trinity came to Modoc Saturday and left with a 68-61 win. Trinity took an 18-8 first period lead and led 32-25 by halftime. Modoc fought back in the second half, but Trinity led 51-41 after three. They outscored Trinity 20-17 in the fourth, but couldn’t catch up.
Gonzalez led with 21 points, Martin had 12; Cook added 11, Bickford eight and Brownlow six. Jess Picotte led with seven rebounds.
Modoc JVs 12-3, 3-1 in SCL
Modoc’s junior varsity beat Lakeview 51-44. They led 17-12 in the opening quarter and 23-18 by half, they won the second half 28-26.
E.B. Henriquez led with 16 points, Wyatt Larranaga and Tanner Smith each added 12.
They beat Weed 61-42 after taking a 20-8 first quarter lead. Modoc led 31-19 by halftime and added 30 points in the second half while limiting Weed to 23.
Henriquez led with 22 points, Jesse Torres and Wyatt Larranaga had seven each and Tucker Lowery and Michael Rush had six each.
The Braves beat Trinity 49-41 here, trailing 12-11 in the first period, but leading 25-14 by halftime. Modoc scored 23 in the second half, while Trinity scored 27 points.
Henriquez led with 17 points, Rush added 15 and Tanner Smith had 12.

Modoc girls win squeaker

Modoc’s Varsity girl’s team beat Lakeview there, 37-34 last week.
Lakeview led 13-3 in the first period and held a 13-7 lead by half as neither team shot well.
The Braves put together a 17-10 third period and a 13-11 fourth period for the win.
Beth Derner led Modoc with 23 points.
Modoc beat Weed 58-37. They led 17-5 in a hot first quarter and had a 29-15 lead at the half. They outscored Weed 29-22 in the second half.
Derner led the scoring with 21, Shelby Doss added 14 and Kylee Ward-Britton had 10.
Trinity beat Modoc here 57-53 in a tight game. Modoc led 19-13 after one, but Trinity fought back for a 29-29 halftime tie. The Wolves took a 41-38 lead after three and nipped Modoc 16-15 in the fourth.
Derner led Modoc with 35 points and Ward-Britton added eight.
Modoc is now 9-6 overall and 1-3 in Shasta Cascade League play.

Junior Chukar hunt a success

This year’s Annual Junior Chukar Hunt, sponsored by the Modoc Fish Game and Recreation Commission (MFG&RC) was a big success. The event took place on January 9 at Alturas Ranches near Alturas.
For the past 10 years the hunt was sponsored by the Modoc Limbhanger’s chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), J.A.K.E.S. program.
However, due to the lack of committee members, the group didn’t have enough members to be able to sponsor the event this year. When the MFG&RC found out about it, they decided the event was much too important to let it go by the wayside. The commission quickly organized the event with the help of the remaining Modoc Limbhanger’s committee members, and made it happen.
Hunters arrived at the hunt location around 8:00 a.m. and were treated to donuts and hot chocolate. The weather wasn’t too bad this year, it was snowing and the wind came up a few times and it got a little chilly, but other than that, it was tolerable. At least, it wasn’t minus twenty degrees outside, like we had experienced just weeks before the hunt. Anticipating the cold weather, the commission put up two large warming tents for the kids, parents and volunteers to go in to and get out of the cold.
The hunt group was large this year. In fact, it was one of the best turnouts in quite some time. There were a lot of first time hunters, which was great to see.

January 28, 2016

News

Big Valley ALS vote will be May 3

Both the Modoc and Lassen County Boards of Supervisors have set May 3 for a special election for the Big Valley Southern Cascades Community Services District for local ambulance, emergency response and training, imposing a special annual tax and election of the initial board of directors.
Modoc Supervisors took the action Tuesday following a public hearing on the issue, which was attended by a large contingent of supporters, several who spoke in favor of the proposed district and the election. No one spoke out against the issue.
The voters in the proposed district, with parcels in both Modoc and Lassen County will be asked for the third time to form a Community Service District and approve a $65 per parcel tax, with a two-parcel limit, to create and fund the ambulance district.
This marks the third effort by the Big Valley Emergency Medical Services Group to form the district and have voters approve the annual tax to fund Advanced Life Support ambulance service in the area. It has just narrowly failed to pass the tax question, which requires a two-thirds vote, twice. Organizers believe they can get the two-thirds vote necessary this time around. There is some opposition to the issue to the plan in the area, but it only failed by four votes in May, 2015. The formation of the District has passed handily both times, but to succeed both parts of the election must pass. The ambulances will be staged in Adin.

Dolan accepts guilty plea in murder

Wednesday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. Zeb Dolan pleaded guilty to count one of second degree murder in the death of 14-month old Anna Mae Ulrich.  He also give the court a “Harvey Waiver” as to count two, Child Abuse Causing Death. That charge was dismissed after the Harvey Waiver was tendered. 
Dolan then pleaded guilty to willfully harming or injuring a child, a felony.  According to District Attorney Jordan Funk, the plea agreement is for Dolan to receive 15 years to life on the Second Degree Murder charge and six years (the maximum) on the charge of willfully harming or injuring a child. 
Funk said the sentences will run consecutively for a total incarceration period of 21 years to life, minus whatever credit the defendant has earned thus far.  The defendant must serve out his entire 21-year sentence before he is eligible for parole. He does not receive good-time or work-time credits on this sentence.

Modoc jobless rate bumps up

The unemployment rate for Modoc County in December 2015 bumped up from November’s 8.0 percent to 9.4 percent, according to the State Employment Development Department.
The civilian labor force dropped from November’s 3,220 to 3,190 and the number of people employed went down from 2,960 to 2,890. The number of unemployed people went up to 260 to 300.
In December 2014, the labor force numbered 3,170; with 2,830 employed and 330 unemployed. Total December farm employment, always seasonal, dropped from November’s 340 to 290, down from October’s 500.

Fair effort moves forward

As the Modoc Fair Board of Directors met Tuesday night it was evident that Modoc District Fairs board did not have a quorum to hold an official meeting.
Presiding directors included Brian Cain, Lilli Sommer, Diana Milton and Janice Lauppe. Since the resignation of Seab McDonald, Ken Roberts, Jeannine Primorac and Michelle Anderson left the Board without a majority.
Lauppe has been appointed the acting Board President.
Director and interim volunteer Lilli Sommer gave the financial report. Although bleak, the report was optimistic with the Fair’s account having a positive balance of $64,167.45. Monthly expenditures for the grounds operations is currently estimated between $8,000-$10,00 per month. In order to cut costs the Board is looking into several services that are currently contracted.
At Tuesday’s Modoc County Board of Supervisors meeting California Department of Food and Agriculture representative Jeff Cesca wished to dispel any rumors that the Modoc District Fairgrounds was closing, assuring the community that the grounds is operational.

SV Hospital ambulance service down

“Last Friday our office was informed that Surprise Valley Hospital would no longer be providing ambulance service to Surprise Valley residents for approximately one month,” said Dan Spiess, Executive Director of NorCal EMS.
NorCal EMS oversees all emergency services in Northern California.
At this time, all 911 calls involving medical emergencies from Surprise Valley will be rerouted to Modoc Medical Center.
Modoc Medical Center has an ALS “Advanced Life Support” ambulance crew on duty at the facility every day. A back up ambulance crew is also on call should another ambulance be needed. Both MMC ambulances are staffed with a paramedic who can give drugs and give a higher scope of care than a BLS “Basic Life Support” ambulance staffed only with EMTs.
The potential exists that both MMC ambulances may be out on a run when a 911 call comes from Surprise Valley. If this happens, it will be up to dispatch to find the closest ambulances service available.
The reason given for the termination of ambulance service is that the hospital has had problems staffing its ambulance crew.

Obituaries—

Richard Glenn “Dick” Server
Richard Glenn Server, better known as “Dick,” surrounded by his son, parents and good friend, Sheryl, passed away at Renown Hospital in Reno, NV on January 25, 2016. He was 47.
Dick was born August 13, 1968, to Micky and Dixie (Vermillion) Server in Alturas, CA.
Arrangements for a celebration of life will be announced later.

Robert Vernon Burelle
(June 14, 1949—January 18, 2016)
Robert Vernon Burelle passed away on Monday, January 18, 2016, in Reno, Nevada, following a short illness.  He was borb June 14, 1949. He grew up in Sierraville and graduated from Loyalton High School in 1967
In lieu of a funeral, the family is celebrating his life on his birthday, June 14, 2016, at his cousin’s ranch at the end of Jean Lane in Sierraville, CA.  Friends and relatives are invited to attend to tell all the warm, funny and wonderful stories about Bob that are too numerous to fit into an obituary.

Harold Tracy Criss
Tracy Criss, 63, passed away January 13, 2016. He was born July 13, 1952 in Alturas, CA, to Harold and Glovena Criss.  He graduated from Big Valley High in 1970 and attended Shasta College.
A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Tracy on January 29, 2016 at 2 p.m. in Bieber at the Veterans Memorial Hall.

Virgil Buhrman
Virgil Buhrman, a long time resident of Alturas, CA passed away at home on January 25, 2016, at 86 years of age.
A Rosary will be held Thursday, January 28, at 6 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A Holy Mass will be held on Friday morning at 10 a.m., also at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 507 E. Fourth Street, Alturas, which will followed by a potluck reception in the church hall.
Virgil was born on June 27, 1929, to Conrad and Ruth (Wilson) Buhrman in St. Libory, Nebraska.
In lieu flowers please send any memorial donations to one of the following charities: Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN.COM), National Rifle Association (NRAILA.ORG), US Marine Corps (SEMPERFIFUND.ORG).

Sports

Modoc sports—

Modoc basketball teams have Fall River at home Jan. 29, game times start at 4 p.m. Etna comes to Modoc Jan. 30 with games starting at 2 p.m.
Modoc wrestlers are at Corning Saturday.
Surprise Valley basketball has Dunsmuir at home Friday night with games starting at 4 p.m. Butte Valley comes to Cedarville Feb. 2 and games start at 5 p.m.

Modoc boys whip Burney

Burney didn’t prove to be much of a challenge to the Modoc Braves varsity boy’s basketball team last week. This Friday they’ll get a much tougher test when Fall River comes to town.
The Braves jumped out to a 13-9 first period lead and held a 23-13 halftime advantage. Modoc outscored Burney 14-2 in the third period and each team scored 13 in the final quarter, giving Modoc the 50-28 win.
Daren Gonzalez led the scoring with 16 points, Tanner Cook added 11, Jeremiah Brownlow had eight and 14 rebounds. Zac Bickford six points and 11 rebounds and Collin Martin had six points.
The varsity is now 5-11 overall for the season and 2-3 in the Shasta Cascade League.
The Modoc JV boy’s basketball team improved its overall record to 13-3 and league record to 3-1 with a 57-22 win over the Burney Raiders in Burney.
The Braves led 22-2 in the first period and 29-6 by halftime. They outscored the Raiders 28-16 in the second half.
Tanner smith scored nine points and Nash Warnock added eight to lead the team and all 12 members contributed to the win.

Modoc girls win tight one at Burney

Modoc’s varsity girl’s basketball team won a tight game, 35-31, against the Burney Raiders there last week. The Braves face unbeaten Fall River here Friday night.
Burney got off to a good start, leading 10-4 in the opening period and 19-13 at the half. Modoc took the lead at 25-23 at the end of the third and outscored Burney 10-8 in the fourth.
Beth Derner led the scoring with 17 points, while Shelby Doss, Kylee Ward-Britton and Mattea Wilson each added six points.
Modoc is now 10-6 overall and 2-3 in the Shasta Cascade League.
The junior varsity girls had no trouble with Burney, winning 53-22. Nicole Yasumi led the scoring with 14 points; Kimmie VanSlyke had 10, while Kristy Sphar had nine and Taryn Burns and Kirsten Bickford each had seven.

Braves wrestlers fare well

Modoc’s wrestling team got split in half last weekend as some of the team went to a tournament in Eureka and the rest went to Fall River. They did well at each venue.
The Braves head to the big Corning tournament this weekend, which will be pivotal in the seeding process for the league and section finals later.
There were 27 teams at the Eureka event. Brandon Hays led the way for the Braves, placing second in the 115-pound division.
Taking sixth in the event were: Lane Galvin at 126 pounds; Tim Reed at 140 pounds and Haydn Alverson at 195 pounds. Placing seventh were Chance Galvin at 122 pounds, Zach Norby at 152 pounds and Josh Vierria at 140 pounds.
In Fall River, Modoc’s Heath Evangel took first place at 120 pounds and Christian Wisser was second. John Irish was second at 145 pounds and Robert Dowdy third at 182 pounds.
The Shasta Cascade League finals are Feb. 5-6 at Quincy with Modoc going in as a favorite to repeat its nearly perfect decades long dominance.

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February 4, 2016

News

Local seats up for election for June 7

There are several local government seats up for election in the June 7 primary.
Three Alturas City council members, Bobby Ray, Jim Irvin and Cheryl Nelson, terms are up this year. The terms are for four years if they chose to file for re-election.
In addition, Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker’s term is up this year. She said she intends to seek another four-year term.
Three County Supervisor seats are also up for election in Districts Two, Three and Four. Those seats are now held by Patricia Cullins, Kathie Rhoads, and Jim Wills respectively and are for four-year terms.
The first day for obtaining nomination papers for all offices is February 16 and the last day is March 11, unless an incumbent doesn’t file, then it is extended to March 16, 5 p.m. Nomination papers are available at City Hall and the Modoc Clerk’s Office.
Both Superior Court Judges -- Frances Barclay and David Mason -- are also up for re-election this year. Judicial candidates have to file a Declaration of Intent in addition to the candidacy papers and the timeline for that is February 1-10 and February 16, if an incumbent doesn't file.

Mountain snow levels well above normal

Mountain snow levels in Modoc are well above average and maintaining healthy depths according to SnoTel measurements and history.
According to the State Department of Water Resources, the snowpack in northern California is at 135 percent of average and is making a dent in the four-year drought. The state target for easing the drought is snow levels at 150 percent.
Compared to last year at this time, the snow depths are incredible.
For instance, in January 2015, Cedar Pass recorded four inches of snow at 7,030 feet. The area now has 58 inches of snow containing 19.1 inches of water. That spot has seen snow depth increase from 48 inches January 28.
Adin Mountain at just above 6,100 feet had two inches of snow this time last year and it now boasts 47 inches of snow containing 16.8 inches of water.
Dismal Swamp in the high north Warners at 7,360 feet had 34 inches of snow last year, about a third of its average. It now has 83 inches of snow.

City asks voters to approve pot tax rate

The City of Alturas intends to ask voters in the June 7 election whether to tax marijuana collectives.
The City Council will hold a public hearing February 16, 2 p.m. in City Hall to discuss putting an ordinance setting business tax rate of 10 percent of gross receipts for every person engaged in operating or conducting a marijuana collective/cooperative in the City of Alturas.
That tax would be enacted solely to raise revenue for general purposes and the money placed in the City General Fund.
This ordinance will be placed on the June 7, 2016 ballot and will take effect upon certification of the vote of the residents of the City of Alturas.
To submit written comments, obtain staff reports or other information, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 200 W. North Street, Alturas, California 96101, (530) 233-2512. 

Alturas Swimming Pool Committee update

The Alturas Swimming Pool Committee has been meeting regularly over the winter months to review periodic reports received from North Star Engineering regarding the feasibility study for the Memorial Pool. 
The reports include a thorough existing pool assessment and reconstruction alternatives. It is planned that the pool will be heated with geothermal water pumped from the well on the Alturas Elementary and Middle School grounds.
They are still in need of specific information about water temperature and flow from the geothermal well, and how the water will be delivered. 
After the water information is reviewed and incorporated, the Committee will have a final meeting with North Star Engineering and then work on a report and recommendation to the City Council.
The pool improvements had a high priority in the John L. Wall Trust and the committee involved in that project has viewed a variety of other community pool configurations and should come back soon with its recommendations.
The Wall trust allocated over $2 million to the City, earmarked for construction, improvement, repair and maintenance of its swimming pool facility and for other youth related activities. In addition, the trust allocated over $2 million to the Alturas Rotary Club for Youth Park activities or construction.
Alturas resident John L. Wall died Sept. 29, 2014 at the age of 67. His Trust also left substantial amounts of money to Modoc Medical Center, the Elks Lodge, the Sheriff’s Posse and the Cedar Pass Ski Hill.

Obituaries—

Franklin “Frank” Taitingfong, Jr.
Franklin Taitingfong, Jr. (Frank) was born on October 27, 1963, to Francisco and Priscilla Taitingfong in Tamuning, Guam. He went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 12, 2016, in Harbor City, California with his family around him.
Memorial Service will be held February 13, 2016 at 11 a.m. at St. James Mission Church in Cedarville, California with potluck to follow. All are welcome to attend.

Charles “Tag” Howland
Charles Taggart "Tag" Howland passed away on January 26, 2016. He was born February 18, 1922 in Los Angeles, Ca., to Percival and Nancy Beemer Howland.
Services will be Friday, February 5, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Barnabas Church, Langell Valley with a potluck lunch to follow at the Lorella Hall.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to St. Barnabas Church, c/o Suzie Grohs, West Langell Valley, Rd., Bonanza, OR 97623.

Sharron Heard
Sharron Heard, age 74, died on Monday, January 25, 2016, in Litchfield, California.
A reception is scheduled for Saturday, February 6, 2016, 3 p.m. at the Community Church of Susanville, 1400 Numa Rd.  Interment to follow at Lake City, CA. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Sharron’s life.

Evonne Rose Snow
Evonne Rose Snow, 89, of Alturas, CA passed away in Alturas on Dec. 23, 2015 from cancer. There will be a memorial service in the spring, to be held in her garden, which she loved.
Evonne was born in Huntington Park, California on June 25, 1926. She graduated from Huntington Park High.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the Humane Society, c/o High Plateau Humane Society, P.O. Box 1383, Alturas, CA 96101.

Sports

Modoc sports—

Modoc basketball teams are at Trinity Feb. 5 and at Weed Feb. 10. Their final home game is against Burney Feb. 12.
Modoc wrestlers are at the Shasta Cascade League championships Feb. 5-6 in Quincy.
Surprise Valley basketball is at Tulelake Feb. 5 and at American Christian Feb. 9.

Modoc grapplers heavily favored to win SCL

The historically dominate Modoc wrestling team is heavily favored to win the Shasta Cascade League championship for the fifth straight year and the 20th out of the last 27 years under coach Shaun Wood, in Quincy this weekend.
The event will have dual matches on Friday and individual matches on Saturday. Wood said Trinity, Quincy and Etna will be the biggest challenges, but he expects to come out on top.
“I see us doing well and having several kids in the final matches,” Wood said Monday. “We’re peaking at the right time and are coming off a good showing at the Corning tournament, where we won the small schools division.”
Troy Culp placed third in Corning at the heavyweight division and Lane Calvin took a third at the 126-pound weight. Brandon Hays took fifth at 113 pounds and Haydn Alverson was fifth at 195 pounds. Zach Norby was seventh at 152 pounds.
Three Modoc wrestlers were just one match out of placing at Corning: Chance Galvin, Tim Reed and Josh Vierria.

Modoc boys beat Etna; fall to Bulldogs

The Modoc Braves boy’s varsity has its best scoring night of the year, beating Etna 84-73 on the home hardwood Saturday. On Friday night, the Braves fell to Fall River’s Bulldogs 63-47.
The Braves are at Trinity Friday night and at Weed Feb. 10.
Modoc trailed Etna 24-22 in the first period and 42-40 at halftime. Modoc outscored Etna 24-13 in the third period and 20-18 in the fourth for he win.
Fall River led Modoc 18-16 in the first period of that game and held a 38-27 lead by halftime. The Bulldogs pumped in 16 points in the third and held Modoc to just four, to take a 54-31 lead into the final stanza. The Braves won that quarter 16-9, but had too much to make up.
The Braves lost to Mr. Shasta 64-47 Tuesday night. They led 12-10 in the first periods and trailed 24-23 by halftime. The Bears took a 42-35 lead after three and outscored Modoc 22-12 in the fourth quarter.
The junior varsity Braves beat Etna 54-35. They led 14-8 in the first period and 33-12 by halftime. Modoc scored 21 second half points and Etna added 23.
Michael Rush led the Braves with 16 points.
The JVs also beat Fall River 65-40 at home. Modoc led 17-9 in the opening period and 33-24 at halftime. The Braves outscored Fall River 32-16 in the second half for the 65-40 win.
The JVs lost to Mt. Shasta 57-47 Tuesday.

Modoc girls split in league action

Modoc’s varsity girl’s basketball team beat Etna 40-32 this week and topped Fall River 50-46.
The Braves led Etna 24-16 at halftime and matched the Lions with 16 points in the second half.
Modoc had a slow start against Fall River, the top team in the Shasta Cascade League, trailed 12-4 in the first. A solid second period put Modoc up 21-20 at halftime. The game was still tight after three, 32-31, but Modoc won the fourth, 18-15.
Mt. Shasta beat the Modoc girls 55-35 Tuesday. Modoc trailed 14-6 in the first quarter and 29-13 at halftime. The Bears scored 26 second half points and Modoc added 22.

February 11, 2016

News

Forest releases snow survey results

Modoc National Forest personnel recently conducted snow surveys at select sites across the Forest. There are four snow measurement sites on the Forest, using a SNOTEL and snow course.
The following are measurements taken from three of the snow survey sites still in use on the Forest:
Big Valley Ranger District just released its official on-site snow survey last week.
The Adin Mountain (Sweagert Flat) snow survey was completed on February 2. Snow depth was 48.7 inches compared to the long-term average of 27 inches. According to the FS, this is the highest recorded snow depth at the Adin Mountain snow survey site in the month of February since 1969 (51 inches).  Water content was 15.4 inches compared to the long-term average of 8 inches.
The Blue Lake Ranch snow survey was completed on February 1. Snow depth was 37.8 inches compared to the long-term average of 23 inches.  That’s the highest recorded snow depth at the Blue Lake snow survey site in the month of February since 1995 (41 inches).  Water content was 11.6 inches compared to the long-term average of 6.6 inches.
The Cedar Pass snow survey was completed on January 28.  Snow depth was 50.4 inches compared to the long-term average of 33.7 inches.  This is the highest recorded snow depth at the Cedar Pass snow survey site in the month of February since 1999 (51 inches). Water content was 17.4 inches compared to the long-term average of 10.3 inches.

Local election period starts

The nomination period for local elections is coming soon and candidates are deciding whether to put their hats in the ring.
Three County Supervisor seats are also up for election in Districts Two, Three and Four. Those seats are now held by Patricia Cullins, Kathie Rhoads, and Jim Wills respectively and are for four-year terms.
Three Alturas City council members, Bobby Ray, Jim Irvin and Cheryl Nelson, terms are up this year. The terms are for four years if they chose to file for re-election.
In addition, Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker’s term is up this year. She said she intends to seek another four-year term.
The first day for obtaining nomination papers for all offices is February 16 and the last day is March 11, unless an incumbent doesn’t file, then it is extended to March 16, 5 p.m. Nomination papers are available at City Hall and the Modoc Clerk’s Office.

Newly sealed City streets come loose

The  $600,000 summer chip seal project on several City Streets last summer is falling apart, turning once-paved streets into gravel, muddy and dusty messes.
And that is not pleasing City Public Works Director, Joe Picotte.
“We’re looking into the issue and have contacted the contractor who did the job,” Picotte said Tuesday. “It’s unacceptable and we’re investigating to find out what went wrong and how to fix the problem. We are very aware of the problem and this was not the end result we expected.”
Whatever did go wrong, it’s rather obvious Picotte said, that the gravel did not bind with the oil on the roads. Picotte said there are several things that could have happened, but he doesn’t want to guess until he investigates further. The project was done by Advantage Paving from Yreka.
Picotte said a first response might be to do a complete and better sweeping of the roads to remove the loose gravel. City crews started that process this week, and the weather looks like it will hold for  few days.
According to Picotte, the initial chip seal funds came from a CalTrans grant for repair and maintenance.

Heritage Foundation formed for Fair

Establishing a faction to aid the Modoc District Fair and spreading the word that the Fairgrounds is not closing has been no easy feat. But with perseverance and a lot of helping hands, the fund raising committee has come a long way.
Tuesday night the group unanimously adopted its working group name, Modoc Heritage Foundation.
The Modoc Heritage Foundation is comprised of nine board members and over a dozen volunteers from all walks for life. Presiding officers include Steve Brown, President; JoAnn White, Vice President; Melinda Stephan, Secretary; Regina Pratt, Treasurer; and directors Lisa Benner, Sherrin Benner, Bonnie Erquiaga, Nicole Hinton and Amie Martinez.
Members of the Modoc Heritage Foundation invite community members to join them at their next meeting in Cedarville on Tuesday, February 16. Meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the Four Seasons Building at Modoc District Fairgrounds. Meetings are held alternately between Alturas and Cedarville.

Obituaries—

John “J.H.” Johnson, Sr.
John Hove (J.H.) Johnson, Sr. of Cedarville, passed away on February 4, 2016 in Reno, Nevada. He was born on June 28, 1928 to John Arden and Johanna Annetta Johnson in Britton, South Dakota
Mr. Johnson was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served as a missionary from June 2004 to June 2005. His funeral service will be held at the Cedarville Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on Surprise Valley Road, Main Highway North, on Monday, February 15, at 11 a.m. A potluck at the Cedarville VFW Hall
will follow the grave service.

Linette G. Noble
Linette G. Noble passed away January 29, 2016 at the family ranch, at the age of 60 years.  She was born in Lakeview, Oregon on August 30, 1955 and lived on the family ranch, attending Willow Ranch School, until moving into Lakeview in 1966. 
A Celebration of Life dessert potluck will be held beginning at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 13, 2016 at the Davis Creek Community Hall.  Friends and family are invited to bring your favorite dessert and memory of Linette to share.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.

Frank Taitingfong, Jr.
A Memorial Service for Franklin Taitingfong, Jr. (Frank) of Cedarville, will be held February 13, at 11 a.m. at St. James Mission Church in Cedarville, with potluck to follow. All are welcome to attend.

Verna Rouse
Verna Rouse passed away February 9, 2016. Obituary will follow.

Sports

Modoc sports—

Modoc basketball teams are at Weed Feb. 10. Their final home game is against Burney Feb. 12, 4 p.m., and finish at Etna Feb. 19.
Modoc wrestlers are at the North Section Small School Championships Feb. 20 in Quincy.
Surprise Valley basketball plays Happy Camp at McCloud Feb. 13 and has Big Valley for Homecoming Feb. 19, game time at 5 p.m.

Braves pin SCL wrestling title

Modoc’s wrestling team won its 20th Shasta Cascade League championship, out of the past 27 years, in Quincy last weekend. They are also favored to win the North Section Small Schools title February in Quincy.
The Braves won with 156 points, following by Trinity 124, Quincy 113, Etna 111, Chester 76, Fall River 59, Big Valley 24 and Tulelake 20.
Modoc put eight wrestlers, out of a possible 14, in the championship matches and four of those won.
Brandon Hays won the 120-pound division while Tim Reed won at 138 pounds, Zach Norby won at 145 pounds and Haydn Alverson won at 195 pounds.
Placing second for the Braves were: Chance Galvin 113 pounds; Lane Galvin 126 pounds; Josh Vierria at 132 pounds and Robert Dowdy at 182 pounds.
Taking fourth place were: Alanis Reep at 106 pounds; Christian Wisser at 120 pounds; Heath Evangel at 126 pounds; and Troy Culp at heavyweight.
Just out of the medals were John Irish 160 pounds, Kaleb Duran 152 pounds, and Will Biggerstaff at 170 pounds.
Culp was awarded the Sportsmanship honor for his unselfish act in his final match.

Braves beat Trinity 51-44

Modoc varsity boy’s basketball team beat Trinity in Weaverville 51-44 Friday night. The win gives Modoc a 7-13 overall record and a 4-5 Shasta Cascade League mark. They played at Weed last night after press time and have Burney at home Friday night.
Modoc led 20-15 at halftime and 34-30 after three. They outscored the Wolves 17-14 in the fourth quarter. Zac Bickford led the scoring with 15, Daren Gonzalez added 14 and Collin Martin and Tyler Doss each chipped in six.

Braves JVs fall

The junior varsity boys lost to Trinity 50-35. The Wolves led 9-8 in the opening period and 17-15 by halftime. They outscored Modoc 33-20 in the second half.
Michael Rush led the scoring with 23 points.
The Braves are now 15-5 overall and 6-3 in the SCL.

Trinity drops Modoc girls

Modoc’s varsity girl’s team had a rough first half against the Trinity Wolves Friday in Weaverville and lost 46-38. They host Burney Friday night.
Trinity jumped out to a 12-3 first period advantage and led 19-12 at halftime. Modoc had a better second half, scoring 26 points, but Trinity added 27.
Mattea Wilson led the Braves with 22 points and Beth Derner added 10.
Modoc is now 11-9 overall and 3-6 in the Shasta Cascade League.
The Braves junior varsity beat Trinity 48-37. They took a 12-6 first period lead and built that to a 24-17 halftime margin. Modoc added 24 points in the second half and held Trinity to 20.
Nicole Yasumi led with 17 points, Kirsten Bickford had 16 and Kristy Sphar had nine.
They hosted the Mount Shasta Bears winning 46-24. Yasumi led the team with 21 points; Bickford chipped in eight points and both Taryn Burns and Angeline Ewing scored six.

February 18, 2016

News

Modoc drought downgraded to severe

The multi-year drought designation that has gripped parts of the west, and Modoc specifically has been downgraded from the highest level of exceptional to mostly severe or extreme by the National Weather Service.
A week of warm temperatures has melted some of the high mountain snow pack and most of the snow is gone from the valley and lower elevations. However, snow and rain are expected this weekend.
Plenty of snow still remains and any added depth will be welcomed. Last week Adin Mountain had 48.7 inches of snow and that level had dropped to 37 inches as of Tuesday. Cedar Pass remained fairly constant with 50.4 inches last week and 47 inches this week. Dismal Swamp lost half a foot from last week’s 76 inches.

Most local incumbents will seek re-election

The nomination period for local elections is now open and candidates are taking out papers.
Three County Supervisor seats are up for election in Districts Two, Three and Four. Those seats are now held by Patricia Cullins, Kathie Rhoads and Jim Wills respectively and are for four-year terms. Rhoads and Cullins have taken out papers. Wills is weighing his options.
Three Alturas City council members, Bobby Ray, Jim Irvin and Cheryl Nelson, terms are up this year. The terms are for four years and all three have indicated they will seek re-election.
Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker has filed papers for re-election to a four-year term.

Fair Board meets Feb. 23 in Alturas

The Modoc District Fair February 23 Board Meeting is being held at the Alturas City Hall Council Chambers beginning at 6 p.m. 
The Fair committee states the Transition Plan is in place and is keeping the Fairgrounds operational. Diana Hamilton and Lilli Sommer are keeping the Fairgrounds office open two days a week and managing the day-to-day affairs.
A report on the progress will be given to the Board later that evening.

Modoc-Washoe Stewardship meets Feb. 25

Topics affecting natural resources on public lands in northeast California and far northwest Nevada will be discussed, when the Modoc-Washoe Experimental Stewardship Steering Committee meets Thursday, Feb. 25, at the Bureau of Land Management Surprise Field Station, 602 Cressler St., in Cedarville.
The meeting, open to the public, gets underway at 9 a.m.
Agenda topics include updates from member agencies, a report on wild horse management, a status report on rangeland monitoring on national forest lands in the Warner Mountains and an update on the Modoc National Forest’s Lassen 15 project.

Obituaries –

Lynn Edward Harris                                                         
1924 - 2016
Former Modoc County Sheriff, Lynn Edward Harris, passed away peacefully at his Alturas, CA. home on February 13, 2016. 
Lynn was born to Sydney and June Harris on August 17, 1924, in Cedarville, CA
Graveside service will be at the Cedarville Cemetery on Saturday, February 20 at 11:00 a.m. with a potluck fellowship to follow at the Modoc County Fairgrounds, Four Seasons Building.

Verna Allen Rouse
Verna Allen Rouse, born March 18, 1920 in Cedarville, California, passed away on February 9, 2016, in her hometown, at the age of 95.

Sports

Modoc girls split in league action

Modoc’s varsity girl’s team fell victim to Weed last Wednesday 57-50, but rebounded to beat Burney 60-56. They travel to Etna Friday to complete the regular season. The junior varsity girls won both games last week. They beat Weed 49-29 and dismantled Burney 45-12.

Modoc boys win triple overtime game against Weed

The Modoc Braves will complete the regular season Friday night at Etna, coming off wins against Weed and Burney.
The Weed game took three overtime periods to decide last Wednesday, with the Braves winning 64-56
Modoc had no trouble against Burney taking a 15-5 first quarter lead and held a 25-12 lead by half, winning 50-31.
Modoc’s junior varsity boys beat Weed 70-46.
The JV also topped Burney 60-44 last Friday.

February 25, 2016

News

Election finds most incumbents running

The nomination period for local elections is now open and candidates are taking out papers.
Three County Supervisor seats are up for election in Districts Two, Three and Four. Each of those sests cover pasts of Alturas. Those seats are now held by Patricia Cullins, Kathie Rhoads and Jim Wills respectively and are for four-year terms. Rhoads and Cullins are running for re-election. Wills has decided not to seek re-election.

County Road 1 set for major project

Modoc County Road One, the main artery in Surprise Valley, will be getting a major upgrade this summer. The road is in serious need of this upgrade.
According to Modoc Road Commission Mitch Crosby and Assistant Steve Jacques, the project will be the biggest the County has done recently and should begin about the first of June and should be finished in about two months.
The project will improve nearly 25 miles of roadway surface from near the northerly limit of Cedarville and end just south of Fort Bidwell. The project will cost about $4.5 million and is funded with 100 percent federal funds.
The southern portion of CR1 from Cedarville to Eagleville is being chip sealed and is in better shape, so once this summer’s project is complete, the entire road will be much better.

Fair future brightens up, with changes

Last October the situation of the Modoc District Fair looked rather bleak but as of Tuesday night it was evident that the doors would not be closing.
The Modoc District Fair Board unanimously accepted the Fair dates of August 19-21. This year’s events details are uncertain but the Modoc Heritage Foundation has stepped up as the host.
Jeff Cesca, Marketing Services Division Director for California Department of Food and Agriculture, explained that a draft Operations Plan had been presented to the Modoc County OES along with other governmental entities. The plan should be solidified by the end of May.

Gas prices hit $2.14 in Modoc

The lowest priced regular unleaded gas in Modoc is $2.14 cash at Rabbit Traxx in Cedarville.
The statewide average is $2.30 and that’s down from $2.91 a year ago and the national average is $1.71, but some states are as low as $1.30. The Chevron in Alturas is at $2.63. The Mini Mart and Alliance prices are at $2.59 a gallon.

Obituaries—

Nadeen Yamagata
Nadeen Yamagata passed away of natural causes on Feb. 13, 2016 at her home in Phoenix, AZ. She was born Nadeen Gayle James on Dec. 3, 1933, in the small town of Eagle, Colorado, where she graduated from high school.
divorced.
She met Shinny Yamagata of Alturas and the two were married in 1971 in Reno, NV.
Shinny preceded Nadeen in passing on Dec. 6, 2015.  Nadeen’s son Roland Bearden passed away in July of 2014.
A service for both Shinny and Nadeen will be held on March 11, 2016 at 3 p.m. at Advantage Mortuary in Phoenix, AZ. 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Condolences may be sent to the family at 6722 West Campbell Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85033.

Harlan Moyer
Harlan Moyer, who was instrumental in a variety of Modoc’s growth, died February 15, 2016 in Fall River Mills.
He was an engineer who was president of CH2M Hill, one of the largest environmental firms in
Arrangements are being made by McDonald’s Chapel in Redding and a private family service will be held in the spring. Memorial donations can be made to Intermountain Hospice c/o Mayers Memorial Hospital, P.O. Box 459, Fall River Mills, CA. 96028.

Sports

Modoc wins 3rd straight Division IV title

Modoc’s wrestling team won its third straight CIF North Section Division IV title last weekend in Quincy. They head to the North Section Masters Finals in Redding Feb. 26-27.
The top two finishers at Masters qualify for the California State Finals in Bakersfield March 5-6.
Durham filled all 14 weight divisions at the small schools championships, while Modoc filled 11. The difference allowed Durham to claim the Division Three title. Team scores were: Durham 238, Modoc 180, Etna 121, Hamilton City, Willows 86, Winters 85, Quincy 82, Fall River 73, Trinity 72, Chester 69, Biggs 44, Los Molinos 36, East Nicolaus 33, Big Valley 13, Esparto 13, Tulelake 7 and Williams 0.

Braves beat Etna in league final

Modoc’s Braves beat the Etna Lions last Friday 64-55 in Etna and traveled to Portola last night after press time for the first round of the CIF North Section Division Five playoffs.
Portola came into the playoffs ranked at number four while Modoc was ranked number 11. Redding Christina has the top ranking, following by Williams, Colusa, Portola, Mt. Shasta, Fall River, Hamilton City, Trinity Tulelake, Quincy, Modoc Etna and Weed.

Modoc girls lose in 1st round

The Modoc varsity girl’s basketball team slipped by the Etna Lions 52-51 there Friday night. Modoc finishes the season with a 13-11 and 5-7 in the Shasta Cascade League.
The opened the CIF North Section playoffs Tuesday as the number eight seed and met Etna again in Alturas.
A tough first period set the tone for the game and Modoc lost 46-43.

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March 3, 2016

News

Grand Jury indicts Deputy Nessling on assault

A Modoc Criminal Grand Jury indicted Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Daniel W. Nessling on Thursday evening Feb. 25 on one misdemeanor count of violating Penal Code section 149 (Unnecessarily Assaulting or Beating Any Person). 
The indictment was received by Judge David A. Mason on Friday morning at 9:00 a.m. in a closed court session. 
Nessling was booked and “cited out” on a low bail $500 warrant last Friday. He was scheduled to appear in Modoc County Superior Court on Tuesday, March 1 at 10:00 a.m. for arraignment, but his legal counsel appeared telephonically on his behalf. Nessling has reportedly been placed on administrative leave.
Modoc Sheriff Mike Poindexter did not comment on the case this week.
Attorney Josh Oleander, of Sacramento, Tuesday asked for a continuance and filed a demurrer motion which was set for hearing April 20, 9 a.m. The motion seeks to set aside the indictment because of the statue of limitations on the crime.
District Attorney Jordan Funk said he is “100 percent confident” that he will prevail on the statute of limitations argument.

Storms predicted for several days

Modoc County can expect some heavy rain and possibly snow storms intermittently over the next 10 days. Snow is expected to refresh some snow depths in the mountains.
Modoc has gone through a period of dry and warm weather, which has dropped the snow levels in the mountains, but not into a serious concern. The County has dropped from an exceptional drought designation, the highest, to a severe drought designation, about in the middle range.
Adin Mountain still has a snow depth of 34 inches, down from February 24’s 40 inches. The water content is at 16.24 inches.
Cedar Pass has 45 inches of snow, down from 48 inches Feb. 24, with a water content of 18.5 inches.
Dismal Swamp still has 69 inches of snow containing 28.8 inches of water, down from 72 inches Feb. 24.
Crowder Flat had no snow on Wednesday, down from six inches on Feb. 24.

Deadline nears for local races for June

The deadline of candidates to file for two seats on the Modoc County Board of Supervisors and three City Council seats is March 11.
Those two seats are District Two where incumbent Patricia Cullins has filed for re-election and in District Three where Kathie Rhoads has also filed.
The District Four seat of Jim Wills will stay open until March 16 since he chose not to run for another term. Elizabeth Cavasso, of Alturas, has filed in that district. Wills decided not to seek re-election because of health reasons.
Three Alturas City Council members, Bobby Ray, Jim Irvin and Cheryl Nelson’s terms are up this year and all three have taken out nomination papers for re-election. Those are also four-year terms.
Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker has filed papers for re-election to a four-year term.

Dahle: Legislature passes health care bill that helps rural hospitals

Assemblyman Brian Dahle, R-Bieber, today announced that the state legislature passed a health care financing plan that will allow six rural skilled nursing facilities in Assembly District 1 to keep their doors open.
“I am proud to support a plan that will save important health centers in our region,” Dahle said. “This plan will allow elderly residents and those needing specialized care to stay comfortably in the facilities they call home, rather than being relocated miles away.”
In 2011, the state budget cut Medi-Cal reimbursement rates. Eastern Plumas Health Care, in Plumas; Mayers Memorial Hospital in Fall River; Modoc Memorial Hospital in Alturas; Seneca Healthcare District in Chester; Surprise Valley Community Hospital in Cedarville; and Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee were faced with a 25 percent reimbursement rate reduction. This threatened the viability of both the skilled nursing facilities and the connected hospitals.
The agreement passed by the Legislature let the state roll-back the 2011 Medi-Cal reimbursement cuts, bringing back $12 million dollars to rural hospitals in the 1st Assembly District, allowing skilled nursing facilities and hospitals throughout the state to keep their doors open.

Obituaries—

Alfred Logan Belding
Alfred Logan Belding of Alturas, CA passed away peacefully in Reno, NV on February 27, 2016. Alfred was born August 17, 1945 in Tulelake, CA to Arthur and Ardeen Steele Belding. He resided in Alturas his entire 70 years.
Alfred was a simple man with simple pleasures. A hearty meal, a friend to have coffee with and chat and laugh – gave him life’s pleasures.
A memorial service honoring Alfred will be held Saturday, March 5 at 11 a.m. at Strong Family Health Center, Hwy. 299 in Alturas, CA. Burial will be at the Steele Family Cemetery on Steelehead Rd., bordering Modoc Recreational Estates in Alturas.

George L. Crighton
George Louis Crighton of Alturas, CA, passed away unexpectedly on January 9, 2016, at the age of 57, at Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, Nevada.
George was born on January 30, 1958 in Morristown, New Jersey.
Mountain View Mortuary in Reno, NV handled cremation arrangements.

Harlan Moyer
Harlan Moyer, who was instrumental in a variety of Modoc’s growth, died February 15, 2016 in Fall River Mills.
He was an engineer who was president of CH2M Hill, one of the largest environmental firms in the world.
Arrangements are being made by McDonald’s Chapel in Redding and a private family service will be held in the spring. Memorial donations can be made to Intermountain Hospice c/o Mayers Memorial Hospital, P.O. Box 459, Fall River Mills, CA. 96028.

Mary Evelyn Rose
Likely resident Mary Evelyn Rose, 79, passed away February 27, 2016 in Reno, NV.
Services will be held in Bodega Bay, CA on May 3, 2016. Mrs. Rose’s obituary will be published next week.

Sports

Portola drops Modoc in playoffs

The Portola Tigers knocked Modoc’s Braves out of the CIF North Section Boys Division Five playoffs last week.
Portola led 18-16 in the first period and 34-33 by halftime. The Braves took a 55-49 lead after three, but Portola won the fourth quarter 24-9 for the 73-64 win.
In other first round action Mt. Shasta beat Los Molinos 72-30, Hamilton City beat Tulelake 59-44, Trinity beat Quincy 62-46 and Fall River beat Durham 75-49. Number one Colusa, number two Redding Christian and number three Williams had first round byes.
In the second round Colusa beat Trinity 84-57, Mt. Shasta beat Portola 76-75, Williams beat Hamilton City 87-63 and Redding Christian beat Fall River 61-59.
Third round play March 2 pits Colusa against Mt. Shasta and Williams against Redding Christian. The championship game will be March 4.

Norby, Culp place at Masters

Modoc’s High School wrestlers, Zach Norby and Troy Culp each placed at the CIF North Section Masters Tournament held in Redding last weekend.
Norby, at160 pounds placed fifth in that division and heavyweight Troy Culp earned a sixth place medal.
Modoc coach Shaun Wood said Norby lost one match 3-0 to the eventual winner of the tourney. He said Culp wrestled well in a tough division.
Chance Galvin, at 115 pounds finished one match out of the medal round. Modoc wrestlers making it to the second day were: Lane Galvin, 126 pounds, Haydn Alverson at 195 pounds, Robert Dowdy at 182 pounds and Josh Vierria at 132 pounds.
Tim Reed and Brandon Hays had very tough weight divisions and didn’t make it to the second day matches.
Wrestlers had to win or place second to qualify for the state finals in Bakersfield March 5-6.
Youth wrestling underway
Coach Wood’s youth wrestling program started this week and will have its first tournament this weekend in Lakeview.

March 10, 2016

News

South Fork cleanup on the calendar

While the piles of cut juniper trees and limbs along the South Fork off the Pit River near Juniper Acres still looks like it did weeks ago, the area is on the calendar for cleanup.
Warner Mountain Ranger District Ranger Tim Davis toured the area with the Modoc Record last Thursday and explained that getting the area put back in shape is a top priority of his.
An AmeriCorps team of 10 young people is scheduled to be on the Modoc National Forest later this months and Davis said one of their first projects will be the South Fork cuts. He said the team is trained in the use of chain saws and other equipment necessary for the clean up operation.
The Forest Service has said the juniper trees were cut primarily to create a barrier that would keep cattle from breaking down the stream banks. There is a livestock grazing permit for that area. The resulting piles of slash and trees just didn’t sit well with local people and Davis has meet with the community to discuss his plans.

Snow levels holding in mountains

The snow levels are holding in the Modoc’s high county and rain or snow is predicted every day through March 15, which should help.
The March precipitation as of Wednesday was .48 inches in Alturas, with the average to date of .52 inches. The month average is 1.52 inches and forecasters expect that might be passed over the next seven days. Modoc’s drought designation has gone down from exceptional, the highest, to severe, two lower.
As of Wednesday, Cedar Pass had 47 inches of snow, up from 40 inches on March 4. Adin Mountains had 39 inches, an increase from 30 inches on March 4. Dismal Swamp showed 77 inches, an increase of nine inches.

Dolan sentenced to 21 years to life in prison

Zebaria Dolan, of Alturas, was sentenced Wednesday to 21 years to life in prison for the second-degree murder of 14-month old Anna Mae Ulrich on December 19, 2013 at his Alturas residence. 
Dolan pleaded “guilty” to second degree murder in violation of Penal Code section 187 and felony child abuse (willfully harming a child) in violation of Penal Code section 273a(a) receiving consecutive 15 and 6 year sentences, respectfully. 
According to District Attorney Jordan Funk, Dolan will not be eligible for parole until he has served his entire 21-year sentence.  The maximum sentence he could have received if the case would have gone to trial is 25 years to life. 

Few challengers in local elections

The deadline of candidates to file for two seats on the Modoc County Board of Supervisors and three City Council seats is Friday and few challengers have thrown their hat in to the ring.
Those two seats are District Two where incumbent Patricia Cullins has filed for re-election. Jeff Bullock has qualified to run against Cullins. District Three incumbent Kathie Rhoads has also filed.
The District Four seat of Jim Wills will stay open until March 16 since he chose not to run for another term. Elizabeth Cavasso, of Alturas, has filed in that district. Wills decided not to seek re-election because of health reasons.
Three Alturas City Council members, Bobby Ray, Jim Irvin and Cheryl Nelson’s terms are up this year and all three have filed papers for re-election. Those are also four-year terms. No challenger has emerged.

Obituaries—

Mary “Evelyn” Rose
Likely resident Mary Evelyn Rose, 79, passed away February 27, 2016 in Reno, NV.
Born Mary Evelyn Haselip on August 4, 1936 in Miami, Oklahoma.
Services will be held in Bodega Bay, CA on May 3, 2016.

Bonny R. Britton
Bonny Ruth Britton passed away March 5, 2016.  She was born in Seattle, WA on September 11, 1943  In lieu of flowers please send donations to the American Lung Association.  Memorial services and reception will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 19 at the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in Fernley, NV.  It was a hell of a ride.

Mary Margaret Miller
Mary Margaret Miller passed March 2, 2016 at home in Eagleville, CA surrounded by family. Mary was born at home in Daly City, CA to Harmon and Lita Curtis on January 31, 1929.
Contributions (in lieu of flowers) can be made to the Eagleville Volunteer Fire Dept. or Surprise Valley Unified Schools, in honor of Mary.
There will be a family memorial at a later date.

Paul Vernon DeForest
Paul Vernon DeForest was born November 10, 1951 in Alturas, CA to Ches and Grace DeForest of Likely, CA.
Paul valiantly battled cancer since 2012. He passed away on March 3, 2016 in his home in Ash Valley. Services will be held at the Adin Community Bible Church in Adin on Saturday, March 12 at 2:00 p.m. with dinner provided at the Adin Community Hall following the services.
In lieu of flowers, please give your memorial donation to Intermountain Hospice, Intermountain Cattlewomen Scholarship Fund or a charity of your choice.

Richard “Ricky” C. Palmer
Richard “Ricky” C. Palmer, 54, the youngest of four children born to Marilyn and Richard L. Palmer, passed peacefully February 11, 2016, at his parents’ California Pines home.
He was born January 30, 1962 in Southern California,
The Rev. Dr. Ben Zandstra of the Federated Church officiated graveside services, which were so appreciated by Ricky’s family, on February 19 at the Alturas Cemetery.

Katherine Coonse
Katherine Coonse of Alturas passed away March 3, 2016. Her obituary will follow in a future issue.

Bob Gothard
Bob Gothard passed away at his Alturas, CA home on January 29, 2016, just shy of his 66th birthday. He was born March 27, 1950.
His graveside services will be held Saturday, March 12 at high noon at the Lookout Cemetery.

Sports

Modoc sports—

The spring sports season is starting for area high schools. The following is the opening schedule for Modoc High.
Baseball: Practice now; at Fall River tournament March 10-12, coach Tim MacDonnell.
Softball: Practice now; at Anderson tournament March 11-12, coach Russell Turner.
Golf: March 10 Trinity Tourney at Riverview Golf Course, Redding, coach Harold Montague.
Track: Burt Williams Invitational at Central Valley High March 26, coach Luke Hughes.

Modoc runners do well at Nor-Cal Mile championships

Modoc runners braved heavy rains, gusty winds and the flu bug while competing at the Nor-Cal Mile Championships in Redding on March 5th.
Fifty-three runners competed in grades ranging from K-8th grade. Once the results were in, Modoc teams ended up winning the K-2nd grade division, 3rd-5th grade division and ended up second in the 6th-8th grade division.
Modoc also ended up with the second place teams in the K-2 and 3-5 divisions. In addition Modoc won $800 of the $1,300 dollars in prize money.
Age group winners were Joshua Minto, Justin Walton, Abby DePaul and Caelli DePaul.
Other medal winners were: Natalie Walton, Lexee Larranaga, Julianna Minto, Carly Bateman, Allie Weber, Trinity Brooks, Cayla Wolfe, Abigail Toomey, Chloe Ulrich, Tori Hughes,  Khyli Marcussen, Axl Whitlock, Caleb Kyllo, Bruce Lewis, Griffin Jaeger, Daniel Bratton, Trace Holdroff, Hank Kyllo, Ryan Weber, Gabe Bateman, Josh Bratton and Jake Cuzick. 

Kids hit the mats Saturday in Alturas

The Modoc youth wrestling tournament will take place Saturday at the Griswold Gym with about 200 youngsters expected.
According to coach Shaun Wood the age group starts at eighth grade and goes almost to kids still in diapers. Modoc has a contingent of about 25 wrestlers coming into the event. Wood said wrestlers will come from throughout southern Oregon and northern California.
Weigh-in will start at 7 a.m. Saturday and wrestling will start about 9 a.m.

March 17, 2016

News

SV, MJUSD Geothermal projects moving forward

The Surprise Valley Hot Springs Geothermal project aimed at electrical generation is moving forward with positive results being collected. The project was the recipient of a California Energy Commission grant last year.
Modoc County and the Modoc Joint Unified School District were approved for the CEC’s Geothermal Grant and Loan Program last year.
They 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.
“I am pleased the project is up-to-date and we are meeting all of our deadlines with the CEC,” said Hot Springs’ Curtis Rose. “A team from UC Davis will be up this month to collect some final geochemical, seismic and magnetotelluric data. This information, once processed, will be used along with data collected last year by Warner Mountain Energy who installed soil gas surveys, two meter soil probes, and auger holes to help the team choose the best target locations for drilling the temperature gradient holes this spring. This data that has been collected will help all of us better understand what is happening undergound and answer questions like what is feeding the system, where is the heat coming from and in what direction?  Is it getting hotter or colder at different depths?  And many other unanswered questions regarding the geothermal system that we see bubbling to the surface in Surprise Valley.”

Storms of past week help snow pack

The last week has been wet in the lowlands and white in the mountains, increasing the snow pack considerably.
The north Warners got hit pretty hard with the snow at the higher elevations. According to the Dismal Swamp SNOTEL site, that area went from 77 inches of snow Feb. 7 to 96 inches of snow Feb. 14. About 18 inches fell there between March 12-14. The site is at 7,360 feet elevation. The water content of the snow on Monday was 34.3 inches.
The Cedar Pass SNOTEL site at 7,030 feet also saw marked improvement as it went from 44 inches of snow Feb. 7 to 56 inches Monday.

One contested race for Supervisor

There will be just one contested race for Modoc County Supervisor in the June 7 primary election. The deadline for candidates to file was March 16.
District Two incumbent Patricia Cullins, who was appointed by Governor Jerry Brown after Jon Pedersen resigned, has filed for election. She will be challenged by Jeff Bullock. Bullock, a former one term Supervisor, ran for re-election in 2012, but Pedersen crushed him by 67.83 percent to 30.43 percent.
District Three incumbent Kathie Rhoads has filed and will be unopposed for re-election.
District Four’s Jim Wills decided not to seek re-election because of health reasons. Elizabeth Cavasso, of Alturas, has filed in that district and will be unopposed.
There will probably not be an election for the three Alturas City Council seats. Bobby Ray, Jim Irvin and Cheryl Nelson’s terms are up this year and all three are unopposed. Alturas City Clerk Cary Baker has filed papers for re-election to a four-year term. She is also not challenged.
Both Superior Court Judges Francis Barclay and David Mason are running for re-election.

Town Hall meetings set for BV ambulance election

Three Town Hall Meetings are scheduled in Big Valley regarding the upcoming Ambulance District Special Election May 3. 
The meetings are set for: the Lookout Fire Hall March 29 at 4:00 p.m.;
the Adin Community Center March 29, 7:00 p.m.; and the Bieber Veteran’s Hall April 6 at 7:00 p.m.
The Big Valley Emergency Medical Services Working Group (BVEMSWG) has assembled a panel of experts that will address the issues facing Big Valley and the surrounding areas following the closure of the ambulance station June 30, 2013 by the Last Frontier Health Care District.

Obituaries –

Katherine Eleanor Coonse
Surrounded by her loving family, Katherine Eleanor Coonse went home to be with her Lord on March 4, 2016. Born December 17, 1926 to Lester and Effie Hayes in Cedarville, CA, Katherine attended Cedarville schools and graduated from Cedarville High School in 1944.
Contributions in Katherine’s memory may be made to the Federated Community Church, PO Box 1708, Alturas, CA 96101.
While we are happy that Katherine is at peace and no longer in pain or needing oxygen, for those who loved her and will miss her, we have to say in her words, “This is the pits!”
A memorial service will be held at the Federated Community Church, Alturas on Saturday, March 19 at 11:00 a.m. A potluck reception will follow.

Kenneth (Ken) E. Smith, Jr.
Kenneth (Ken) E. Smith, Jr. - Devoted husband, loving father, care-free grandfather, fun great-grandfather! passed February 13, 2016. Ken was born July 14, 1932  to Kenneth E. and Helen Smith in Mill City, Oregon. A Memorial Service for Ken will be held on March 25, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Weddle Funeral Chapel in Stayton, Oregon; interment with Military Honors will immediately follow at Lone Oak Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Weddle Funeral Services.

Arthur D. Kelly Jr.
On March 1, 2016, "Art" Kelly joined his five siblings in the afterlife.  He was born to Arthur D. and Bess Kelly on March 6, 1921 in Bolivar, Missouri and was the fourth of six children and passed in Redding, CA.  
Art is survived by his wife Jeanne; sons Skip, Bob, Rod and Mike and numerous grandkids, great grandkids and great-great grandkids.
A service with full military honors will be held at 12:30 p.m. March 18 at Northern California Veterans Cemetery, Igo, CA.

Sports

Modoc sports—

Spring sports have started for area high schools. The following is the schedule for Modoc High.
Baseball: at Maxwell tournament March 17-19.
Softball: at Maxwell tournament March 17-19.
Golf: March 17 at Lake Shastina, Weed.
Track: Burt Williams Invitational at Central Valley High March 26.

Youth wrestlers head to Chester

Modoc’s youth wrestling team is heading to the Chester tournament this weekend after staging a very successful tourney last Saturday at the Griswold Gym.
According to coach Shaun Wood, there were over 250 young wrestlers from throughout the region at the Modoc event. He said it was one of the biggest to date and ran very well.
Wood thanked all the community members, parents and high school students who pitched in to make the tourney so successful. He said their efforts went above and beyond and were recognized by everyone involved.

March 24, 2016

News

Coach Wood resigns from football program

Modoc Head Football Coach Shaun Wood presented the Modoc Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees with his letter of resignation last Thursday during a regular meeting.
A surprised Board and Superintendent Tom O’Malley asked Wood to reconsider and chose not to accept the resignation. The decision, however, rests in Wood’s hands.
Wood told the Record Tuesday that he would make a final decision after he has knee surgery next month. There are some negotiations that will take place over the next several weeks.

IRS files tax lien against Surprise Valley Hospital

The Internal Revenue Service has filed a Federal Tax Lien of $406,836.96 against the Surprise Valley Hospital District for unpaid employee withholding taxes.
The lien was filed with the Modoc County Recorder’s Office Feb. 22, 2016.
The issue is nonpayment of employer withholding for income taxes, social security tax, or Medicare tax from employee's paychecks paid as the employer's portion of social security or Medicare tax, on form 941.
According to the Lien, the non-payment issue has been ongoing.
The following are the unpaid 941 taxes for each period listed: March 31, 2013, $23,852.13; September 20, 2014, $3,810; December 31, 2014, $114,750.38; March 31, 2015, $86,785.16; June 30, 2015, $146,674.50; September 30, 2015, $30,954.

Defense attorney questions Sheriff’s integrity

The defense attorney in the Cherie Rhoads murder case has filed a Pitchess Motion in Modoc Superior Court questioning Modoc County Sheriff Mike Poindexter’s credibility as a witness.
The motion was filed Monday by attorney Antonio R. Alvarez of Fresno and asks for a hearing April 7, 1:30 p.m., and seeks items that “are in the custody of the Modoc Sheriff’s Department and pertain specifically to Deputy Daniel Nessling, however, the discovery sought is believed to affect the credibility of Sheriff Poindexter.”
A key item is testimony of Poindexter in a past civil case involving Nessling and James Budmark.  That testimony is sealed and Alvarez is asking that it be unsealed to see if Poindexter’s testimony in that case was true.
Rhoads is charged with four counts of willful, deliberate and premeditated murder, two counts of attempted murder and multiple enhancement, including personal infliction of great bodily injury. She is facing the death penalty.

Drought floating out of Modoc

While Modoc County remains in a drought, the severity has decreased markedly over the past 90 days, especially with a wet January and March.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA, Climate Prediction Center and the U.S. Drought Monitor, portions of Modoc have moved from the highest drought level of exceptional to severe, a medium level, and the potential for spring is to move away from drought designation altogether.
March precipitation to date is 1.77 inches, well above the average to date of .96 and above the monthly average of 1.52 inches. More precipitation is also expected.
The snow level in the high mountains remains good. Cedar Pass had 47 inches of snow Tuesday with 20.5 inches of water. That area had 54 inches on March 14.
Dismal Swamp had 90 inches of snow Tuesday, containing 35.4 inches of water.  That area has dipped some from 96 inches March 14, but added six inches Tuesday.

Obituaries—

Marveleen Handley
Marveleen “Marve” Sue Handley passed away March 14, 2016 at Warnerview Skilled Nursing Facility in Alturas, CA. She was born Marveleen Sue Butler on September 27,1927 in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Cauleen Middaugh and Asa Clint Butler.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Modoc Senior Center, 906 West Fourth St., Alturas, CA 96101, in Marve’s name.

Iola Jones Reece

Iola Jones Reece, born Feb. 21, 1924 in New Home, Lynn County, Texas. She passed away on March 15, 2016 in Alturas, CA.
She worked with her then husband Paul on their large family farm raising cattle in Colorado. She always worked a huge garden and canned everything to last through the winter without buying groceries. Together they came to Modoc and operated a large cattle ranch in Surprise Valley.

Melvena Hall
There will be a service for Melvena Hall (Bobby) on Saturday, March 26 at 11 a.m., held at the Likely Cemetery and a potluck to follow at the Likely Fire hall. To all those who wish to attend, please feel welcome. Obituary to follow.

Sports

Modoc sports—

Spring sports have started for area high schools. The following is the schedule for Modoc High.
Baseball: at Fall River, April 8.
Softball: at Fall River, April 8.
Golf: at Fall River Golf Course, April 7
Track: Burt Williams Invitational at Central Valley High March 26.

Modoc girls off to good start

Modoc’s varsity softball team got off to a good start last weekend, winning five and losing one game.
The Braves beat Quincy 5-3 after taking a 2-0 first inning lead. Quincy tied it up in the second, but Modoc added two in the third and one in the fourth. Quincy added one in the fourth.
The Braves were shut out by league nemesis Fall River 5-0. The Bulldogs scored two in the first inning and added one in the fourth, fifth and sixth for the win.
Modoc beat Esparto 13-2, starting out with a 12-2 first inning.
The Braves beat Williams 13-1 in three innings.
Chester fell victim to Modoc in an 8-0 shutout.
Modoc won a tight game with Pierce 4-2.

Modoc split in baseball action

Modoc’s varsity baseball did well in the Maxwell tournament last weekend and won a pair while losing one game.
The Braves beat Shasta Cascade League rival Fall River 5-2 to start the tourney
Modoc shut out Portola 8-0 in the next game.
Maxwell beat the Braves 3-1 in the final game. Modoc led 1-0 in the fourth inning, but Maxwell scored two in the fifth and one in the six for the win.

March 31, 2016

News

DA also seeks opening of Sheriff sealed testimony

Last week, Antonio R. Alvarez of Fresno, the defense attorney in the Cherie Rhoades murder case filed a Pitchess Motion in Modoc Superior Court asking for a hearing April 7, 1:30 p.m. concerning the truthfulness of past testimony by Modoc County Sheriff Mike Poindexter.
Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk also intends to file a similar motion by the end of this week. Funk said the hearing will probably not be held on April 7, but will probably be not long after that date. The County Board of Supervisors will hire a defense attorney for Poindexter in the case.
“The defense attorney in the Rhoades case has filed a Pitchess Motion,” Funk said. “We have supplied to the defense attorney a ‘Brady Memorandum’, outlining the facts of the situation as we understand them, as we are required to do by law. We have not yet filed our motion, but expect to have it filed by the end of the week.”
A key item is testimony of Poindexter in a past civil case involving Nessling and James Budmark.  That testimony is sealed and Alvarez is asking that it be unsealed to see if Poindexter’s testimony in that case was true.
“The situation is this,” said Funk this week.  “The law requires the sheriff to document all citizen complaints, even frivolous ones and to report those citizen complaints to a judge when ordered to do so. A litigant (in either a criminal or civil case) is entitled to obtain access to those complaints through a process known as a Pitchess Motion. In 2012, in the civil case of James Budmark v. Daniel Nessling, James Budmark, through his lawyer, made a Pitchess Motion requesting any evidence of prior citizen complaints of excessive force against Nessling. 
“Judge Mason granted the motion and required the sheriff to produce (in a confidential hearing in the Judge’s chambers) the Sheriff’s records of prior citizen complaints of excessive force against Nessling. We don’t know exactly what went on in that confidential hearing because the transcript is sealed.  What we do know at present is this: the Sheriff apparently told Judge Mason that there had never been any prior complaints of excessive force against Nessling.  We believe this to be the case because Judge Mason, following the confidential hearing, issued a Minute Order to James Budmark and his lawyer to that effect, essentially stating that there were no prior citizen complaints against Nessling involving excessive force.”
Funk said his investigation has shown that the Sheriff’s statement was probably not true.

Children’s Fair cancels after 29 years

The Modoc Children Fair Committee would like to inform the community that this year's Children's Fair is canceled.
The committee will be reorganizing to plan for a bigger and better Fair in May 2017.
Due to the new policies and regulations, it has made it increasing difficult to hold the Fair at Modoc High School. The committee will be looking for new possible sites for next year's fair.
The Committee would like to send a special thank you to our community, businesses and all of our vendors who have supported this special day for children for the last 29 years. The Committee looks forward to working with everyone again in 2017.
The Committee needs you.  If you are interested in helping or have suggestions please contact Charisa Olson at 640-3526 or Debbie Mason at 640-2423.   

Gas prices moving up again

Gas prices in the nation and state are pushing up higher again and Modoc is no exception.
As of Tuesday the Chevron Station in Alturas had a price of $2.93 for regular unleaded. That’s up from February’s $2.63. Modoc Mini Mart and Alliance had prices of $2.89, up from February’s $2.59.
The best price for gas in Modoc is at Rabbit Traxx in Cedarville at $2.04 for cash and $2.09 credit.
According to GasBuddy, average retail gasoline prices in California have risen 8.7 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.77 Monday. That’s according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 10,526 gas outlets in California. This compares with the national average that has increased 5.6 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.04.
Including the change in gas prices in California during the past week, prices yesterday were 44.6 cents per gallon lower than the same day one year ago and are 38.6 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 29.5 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 38.7 cents per gallon lower than this day one year ago.

Missing boys found safe

Two boys reported missing last Thursday on the XL Reservation caused a major search effort. But they were found in a tree on the reservation and were unharmed.

Obituaries—

Viola Grace “Gracie” (Friel) Irwin
Viola Grace “Gracie” (Friel) Irwin passed away, peacefully, the early morning of March 5, 2016 in Woodland, California. She was born January 28, 1924 in Richmond, California.
Her ashes will be spread over the desert with her husband Lon.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Alderson Convalescent Hospital in Woodland who provided excellent care and kindness to her in her final years. 

Betty Jane Myers
Canby resident Betty Jane Myers passed away of natural causes on March 19, 2016 at home, a week shy of her 84th birthday. She was born March 28, 1932 in Brownsville, Oregon.
There will be no services per her request.

Dennis J. Richardson, Sr.
Services for Dennis James Richardson, Sr. will be held Saturday, April 9, 2016 at the Fourth Street Baptist Church in Alturas at 1:30 p.m. Anyone who would like to attend, is invited.
Dennis was born on October 14, 1952 to Ruth and Leonard Richardson in Colusa County and passed away January 14, 2016 in Redding, California at Mercy Medical Center.

Sports

Modoc sports—

Spring sports have started for area high schools. The following is the schedule for Modoc High.
Baseball: at Fall River, April 8.
Softball: at Fall River, April 8.
Golf: at Fall River Golf Course, April 7.
Track: Hornet Invitational, Enterprise High School, Redding.

Modoc splits with Burney in softball

Modoc’s softball team split a double bill with the Burney Raiders March 23.
The Braves won the first game 14-12 in extra innings, but lost the nightcap 10-9.
The first game was tight as Burney led 1-0 in the first, but Modoc put up three in the second and added three in the third. Burney cut the score to 6-4 in the third and Modoc went up 8-4 in the fourth. The Braves added two in the fifth to go up 10-4, but Burney came back with three in the fifth, two in the sixth and one in the seventh to tie it at 10-10. Modoc won the game with a four-run eighth inning and limited Burney to two.
Burney won the second game after spotting the Braves a 4-0 lead in the second inning. Modoc added on in the third and Burney scored four in the third to trailed 5-4. The Braves put up four runs in the fourth, but Burney added three in the sixth and three in the seventh for the 10-9 win.
The Braves are at Fall River April 8.

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April 7, 2016

News

DG wild horse survey shows population explosion

Modoc National Forest personnel have completed a "Double Count" aerial survey of the wild horse population in and around the Devil's Garden Plateau Wild Horse Territory.
The results of the survey show the wild horse population is greater than the Appropriate Management Level (AML) of 206-402 adult wild horses.
Data collected is compared using statistical modeling to estimate sighting rates for observers during the survey. "Using this method, we estimate the current wild horse population is 2,246 adult horses," said Forest Rangeland Management Specialist and survey coordinator, Jenny Jayo. "This means wild horse population size has nearly doubled since February 2013 when the last inventory was completed. Wild horses now occupy an area more than twice the size of the territory designated for their use by the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971."
While the number of horses reported this week is huge, Modoc Resource Analyst Sean Curtis said the count would not include this year's foal crop, which could add more than 200 animals.
Many horses have moved off of the Territory and Forest onto private and tribal land. The Modoc National Forest is currently planning to remove wild horses from private land where requested. This is a top priority under the 2013 Devil's Garden Plateau Wild Horse Territory Management Plan (http://1.usa.gov/1PxhnVA).

SV hospital debt goes up again

The debt level of the Surprise Valley Hospital District, as reported in public meetings will be published each month.
The latest report actually shows November 2015 debt at $2,258,818 and December's debt at $2,361,498. It dipped slightly for January to $2,349,918. It took another big jump to $2,513,525 in February 2016.
In addition, the Internal Revenue Service has filed a Federal Tax Lien of $406,836.96 against the SVHD for unpaid employee withholding taxes.

Hot water hit in Warner Street drill site

The Modoc Joint Unified School District geothermal re-injection well drilling operation on Warner Street hit hot water at 1,854 feet, according to MJUSD Superintendent Tom O'Malley. There's still some work to do.
"I should have a better answer towards the end of the week," O'Malley said about the resource. "We hit hot water at about 1,854 feet, which is obviously a good thing. Other than one layer of basalt, the cuttings are nearly
identical to the cuttings from AL-2."
Well AL-2 is the well between Modoc Middle School and Alturas Elementary School and the Warner Street well will serve as the re-injection point.
Boart Longyear Company, headquartered out of Salt Lake City drilled the geothermal re-injection well over the past three weeks. Boart is one of the leading drillers in the United States and around the world. Once the re-injection well is set, the work on the complete geothermal project will intensify. The production geothermal well is off Nagle street between Modoc Middle School and Alturas Elementary School. Once complete, the geothermal resource is expected to provide heat to the Middle School complex, AES and Modoc High School. The resource will also be used to heat the Alturas swimming pool.

PROPERTY TAX DEADLINE
2nd INSTALLMENT DUE

The second installment of secured property tax is due by 5:00 p.m., Monday, April 11, 2016 because April 10th is a Sunday this year. Taxes not paid by then will be subject to a 10% penalty charge plus $10.00 cost on each parcel of land.
Payments may be made in Room 101 at the Courthouse, 204 South Court Street in Alturas in the office of Cheryl Knoch, Treasurer-Tax Collector, or by mail. The Tax Collector's office will be open 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (including the lunch hour) April 7-11, 2016 for your convenience. When making your payment, be sure to include the proper tax stubs.
All mail must be postmarked no later than Monday, April 11 and sent to: Modoc County Tax Collector, 204 S Court St, Room 101, Alturas, CA 96101.

Obituaries—

Fernand Larranaga, Sr.
Fernand was born in Aietze, France on November 15, 1929. He immigrated to the U.S. in 1953, where he worked as a sheepherder, here in California. He married Josephine on Jan. 25, 1969 in Susanville, CA and they had two children.
He passed away of natural causes at the age of 86 on April 4, 2016 in Alturas, CA.
Rosary will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Alturas on April 10 at 6 p.m. Funeral mass will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on April 11 at 10 a.m. Burial to follow at the Alturas Cemetery and reception at the Brass Rail.

Jerry Ray Wedel
Former Alturas resident Jerry Ray Wedel went to be with the Lord at Martha & Mary Health & Rehab Center in Poulsbo, Washington on March 20, 2016. He was 71. Jerry, born in Hardin, Montana, moved to California as a young man. He was Manager of Heart Federal Savings & Loan while in Alturas.
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, April 9 at 11 a.m. at Gateway Fellowship, 18901 8th Ave. NE, Poulsbo, Washington. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Martha & Mary, 19160 Front St. NE, PO Box 127, Poulsbo, WA 98370 or http://www.marthaandmary.org/support/donate.

Ronnie Modoc Thomason
Alturas native Ronnie Modoc Thomason, age 68, passed away March 16, 2016 in Alturas, CA.
Born August 28, 1947 in Alturas to Bill and Lois (Fender) Thomason, Ronnie attended local schools and graduated from Modoc High School.
Ron's family wishes to thank the staff at Warnerview Convalescent for their years of care, Modoc Medical Center for their care and Jason at Kerr Mortuary. Services will be private.

Lenora "Lennie" Brazil Mensurati
Lenora "Lennie" Renee Brazil Mensurati of Alturas passed away at home April 4, 2016. Her memorial service will be held Saturday, April 8, 2016 at 1 p.m. at GracePoint Church of the Nazarene, 212 So. Main Street, Alturas with a potluck to follow.

Elsie Cunningham
Former Alturas resident and Realtor Elsie H. Cunningham of Green Valley, Arizona, passed away at the age of 100 on March 21, 2016. She was born September 19, 1915. Arrangements were under the direction of Desert Rose Heather Cremation and Burial, Tucson, AZ. No other information was made available.

Dennis J. Richardson, Sr.
Services for Dennis James Richardson, Sr. will be held Saturday, April 9, 2016 at the Fourth Street Baptist Church in Alturas at 1:30 p.m. Anyone who would like to attend, is invited.

Sports

Modoc sweeps Chester tourney

Modoc’s baseball team, now 5-1, swept the Chester tournament last weekend in a good outing and face Fall River to open Shasta Cascade League play Friday at Fall River.
The Braves beat Big Valley 16-2 to open the event. Modoc scored eight in the first, two in the second, one in the third and five in the fourth. Big Valley scored one in the third and one in the fourth.
The Braves beat Mercy 10-0 in the next outing, scoring four in the first, one in the second and five in the fifth.
Modoc beat the host team 4-3 in a tight game.
Modoc scored one in the third, one in the sixth and two in the seventh for the win and held off Chester, who scored three runs in the seventh.

Modoc track has good opener

Modoc’s track team had a good first outing March 26 at the Burt Williams Classic at Central Valley High School. They compete at the Hornet Invitational in Enterprise April 9.
In the boy’s varsity division, Jonas Collier won the triple jump with a new meet record of 41 feet-11.5 inches. He also placed second in the long jump at 19-1.5 and seventh in the 800 meters at 2:15.
Troy Culp placed third in the shot put at 40-7.5. Zach Norby placed eighth in the 300-meter hurdles. Collier, Culp, Norby and Sean Anderson combined to place fifth in the 4x400 meter relay with a time of 4:05.
Logan Van Sickle placed eighth in the 3,200 for the boy’s junior varsity at 13:44.
For the varsity girls, Emily Lowrey placed sixth in the high jump, eighth in the 400 meters and seventh in the 800 meters. Kayla Aarstad was seventh in the 400 meters and eighth in the 200 meters. Cindy Cohen was fifth in the in the 3,200 meters at 14:29.
Aarstad, Lowrey, Toomey and Cohen placed fifth in the 4x400 meter relay at 5:03.
Hailey Hopkins led the junior varsity girls by winning the 3,200 meters in 14:38. She was also third in the 1600 meters at 6:28 and seventh in the 400 meters. Taylor Ryan was third in the 3,200 at 14:58.

Golf team heads to Fall River

Modoc High School’s young and inexperienced golf team heads to the Fall River Golf Course today and hosts the Shasta Cascade League match at Arrowhead Golf Course, April 14, starting at 12 noon.
Although the team is young, coach Harold Montague said he feels they have “a lot of potential for growth.” The team has: juniors Ole Kyllo, Jeremiah Brownlow, Alex Rovetti and Dillion Gould; sophomores Mavrick Farnam and Shaun Sylvia; and freshman Tucker Lowrey.
Montague said only four teams are competing in the SCL this season: Modoc, Fall River, Mt. Shasta and Weed. Through the first four league matches, Modoc is in second place behind Mt. Shasta.
On Tuesday the team competed in a Running Y tournament hosted by Henley High School. They finished in the bottom third of the 12 teams participating.
Modoc scores were: Kyllo 97, Lowrey 106, Brownlow 111, Gould 120 and Farnam 130.

April 14, 2016

News

MJU geothermal project hits a snag

Last week the Modoc Joint Unified School District geothermal re-injection well drilling operation on Warner Street hit hot water at 1,854 feet, but it was apparently not a productive pool.
Drilling was stopped this week and a special meeting of the MJUSD Board of Trustees was held Tuesday afternoon to discuss the status and progression of the project.
According to Superintendent Tom O’Malley, the District had to decide whether to drill deeper or to move the drilling to another location. That move could have been cost prohibitive.
Following the meeting and reports from the geothermal engineers, the Board chose to stay at the Warner Street site and continue drilling,.
“We will be drilling down another 400 feet unless we hit what we need sooner,” O’Malley reported. “Drilling should start up sometime Friday.”

Nessling attorney seeks dismal of case

The attorney representing Modoc Deputy Daniel Nessling is asking the Modoc Superior Court to set aside a February 25 Modoc Grand Jury indictment charging Nessling with assault under color of authority.
That hearing is set for April 20, 9 a.m. in Modoc Superior Court under Judge David Mason.
Joshua Olander, an attorney from Sacramento, contends that the Grand Jury cannot indict on misdemeanors, only felonies.
District Attorney Jordan Funk disagrees with Olander’s opinion and believes the indictment by the Grand Jury is valid and legal. He has filed a brief opposing dismissal of the charges.

Snow levels indicate solid water content

The U.S. Forest Service completed its spring snow survey the last part of March and April 1 and found generally good conditions.
The Adin Mountain (Sweagert Flat) snow survey was completed on April 1.  Snow depth was 34.7 inches compared to the long-term average of 32.24 inches.  Water content was 15.6 inches compared to the long-term average of 12.23 inches.
According to the SNOTEL, electronic station, on April 4, there was 26 inches of snow and that dropped to 11 inches on April 11, with water content of 5.6 inches. More snow is forecast later this week for most of Modoc County.
The Cedar Pass snow survey was completed on March 31.  Snow depth was 47.1 inches compared to the long-term average of 42.8 inches. Water content was 20.8 inches compared to the long-term average of 15.9 inches.
Cedar Pass SNOTEL figures showed 40 inches of snow April 4 and that dropped to 24 inches April 11 with 11.5 inches of water.
The SNOTEL measurement at Dismal Swamp showed 73 inches of snow with 32.1 inches of water April 11. That was down from April 4 when 82 inches of covered the area.

Big Valley voters to decide ALS service May 3

Voters in Big Valley will vote in a Special Election May 3, 2016 to consider forming a special district and adopting a tax assessment to fund local ambulance, emergency medical response and training.
The election will be mail-in only ballots and voters will decide on Measure E to form the District and Measure F to approve a $65 per parcel annual tax to fund the District.
Since the proposed Southern Cascades Community Services District in northwestern Lassen County and southwestern tax issue has been voted down by slim margins two times, organizers are counting on the third time getting them over the two-thirds majority hump.
The last election, May 5, 2015, got 66.1 percent of the vote, but it failed by four votes. It needed 66.7 percent of the vote.

Obituaries—

Shelley C. Patterson
Shelley Christine Patterson of Alturas passed away April 9, 2016 at Modoc Medical Center, Alturas, CA. She had just celebrated her 64th birthday with her family.
She was born April 6, 1952 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Helen and John Parkin.
Private services are pending. Condolences may be sent to Shelley’s family at 503 East 11th St., Alturas, CA 96101.

Dr. Daniel Atherton Williams Jr., MD
Dr. Daniel Atherton Williams Jr. was born on July 4, 1945 in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania to Daniel Atherton Williams and Ruth Elizabeth Merritt Williams.  He died peacefully at the Modoc Medical Center in Alturas, California on April 6, 2016 after a brief battle with cancer. 
A memorial service will be held on April 22 at noon at the Veteran's Memorial Hall in Alturas, California.  A second service will be held on June 18 at 11:00 AM at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Alexandria, Virginia, to celebrate his life with his East Coast friends.  All are welcome to attend.

Linda Spoonhower
Loving mother, grandmother and friend, Linda Spoonhower, age 60, of Alturas, CA passed into God’s hands after losing her courageous battle with cancer on April 4, 2016.
Linda was born November 27, 1955 in Toronto, Canada to Ennis and Harold Hall
Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Federated Community Church on 1st Street, Alturas, CA.

Bettina Lynn “Tina” Lourenco
Bettina “Tina” Lynn Lourenco painlessly slipped away and passed peacefully on March 18, 2016 under the care of Renown Hospital in Reno, NV. Her beloved husband Mark never left her side.
Bettina “Tina” Lynn Williams was born August 14, 1956 in Joliet, Illinois.
A celebration of Tina’s life will be held in Reno, NV.

Jack Ellsworth
Jack Louis Ellsworth, former Alturas resident and Alturas Wells Fargo Bank Manager, passed away on April 10, 2016 in Citrus Heights, CA. He was born in Seattle, WA on October 30, 1926 and graduated from Commerce High School in San Francisco, CA.
Interment at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, Dixon CA will be private.
A Celebration of Life open to those who wish to pay their respects will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19, 2016 in the VFW Hall in Folsom, CA.
In his memory, donations may be made to UC Davis Hospice, Health Sciences Development, 4900 Broadway, Suite 1150, Sacramento, CA 95820. Or email www.healthsystem.ucdavisedu/giving.

Donald C. Preston
Donald C. Preston was called home to be with his Ancestors on April 10, 2016.
Services will be held Friday, April 22, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at a location to be announced. Cemetery service will follow at the Alturas Cemetery at 900 East 8th Street, Alturas, CA.
Obituary to follow in future publication.

Joe E. Hunter
Joe Edd Hunter of Janesville passed away on April 10, 2016 at his daughter's home in Susanville. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 16, 2016 at the Janesville Cemetery at 464-380 Cemetery Lane, Janesville.  A reception will follow at the Honey Lake Assembly of God church at 464-905 Standish Buntingville Road in Janesville. 
Obituary to follow. 

Sports

Modoc whips Fall River in doublebill

Modoc’s baseball team took a doubleheader from the Fall River Bulldogs Friday in Fall River. They have a make-up baseball game against Burney there April 14. The first meeting was rained out.
Modoc won the opening game against the Bulldogs 16-6 behind the mound performance of Alex Valenci
The nightcap was a tight game with Fall River jumping out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning. Modoc scored once in the second hand had a big six-run third inning to take a 7-3 lead. The Braves went up 9-3 in the fourth and Fall River narrowed it to 9-8 in the fifth. Each team added a run in the sixth with Modoc leading 10-9. Modoc added two in the seventh and held off the Bulldogs, who also scored a pair, but were one run short for the 12-11 Modoc win.

Modoc softball drops two to Fall River

The Fall River Bulldogs softball team is unbeaten this year, and while Modoc gave them a scare last Friday, they remained unbeaten.
The Braves lost the opening game 6-3.
The Braves bats went cold in the second game, against the same pitcher, Laci Denny. Wilson got the only hit, a single, and Modoc lost 8-0.
Modoc beat Tulelake Tuesday in two five-inning games.
Haley Valena got the 15-3 win in the opening game, tossing a one hitter. She went five innings, struck out four and walked four.
Valena got the second game 7-0 shutout win, going five innings, allowing three hits, no walks and fanned three.
Modoc faces a tough test against Mt. Shasta Tuesday at home with a start time of 2 p.m.

Mt. Shasta leads golf loop

The Mt. Shasta golf team is leading the Shasta Cascade League with a 18-0 mark, with Modoc second at 12-6. Only two other schools have teams: Fall River and Weed and neither have a full squad.
Modoc hosts a league meet at Arrowhead April 14 starting at 12 noon, weather permitting.
Results from our league match held at Fall River Golf Course on Thursday, April 7 found Mt. Shasta winning with a score of 464 and Modoc second at 509.

Track team shows improving marks

The Modoc High School Track team was back in action on April 9 at the Hornet Invitational at Enterprise High School in Redding. Most of the big schools from the Northern Section were represented, as well as schools from Oregon and Reno, NV.
The Braves will be in action again on April 16 at the John Frank Invitational at Central Valley High School.

April 21, 2016

News

Grand Jury indictment of Nessling dismissed

On Wednesday morning, Modoc Superior Court Judge David Mason granted a demurrer motion in the Modoc Grand Jury indictment of Deputy Dan Nessling. That decision dismisses that indictment.
Just after that decision was made, District Attorney Jordan Funk filed a direct complaint against Nessling with the assault charges.
That February 25 Modoc Grand Jury indictment charged Nessling with assault under color of authority.
Nessling’s legal counsel Joshua Olander, from Sacramento, argued successfully that the Grand Jury could not indict on misdemeanors, only felonies.
District Attorney Jordan Funk disagreed with Olander’s opinion, but Mason ruled in the defense’s favor.
Another hearing on the case has been scheduled for May 2, 11 a.m. Olander did not enter a plea for Nessling on Wednesday and Nessling did not appear.
Funk said it is important to note that Judge Mason's ruling was a technical ruling on jurisdictional grounds; it had nothing whatsoever to do with the strength of the evidence or the reasonableness of the grand jury's conclusions that a crime was committed. 

MMC enjoying and earning solid financial years

Modoc Medical Center in Alturas has shown financial and service improvements recently and the last two years have shown healthy operating profits. The fact that it is now a tax supported special district has been vital, but operating income is also in the black.
According to its 2015 audit, operating income for 2015 was positive $1,029,284 and total profit was $4,370,886. For reference, operating income for 2009 was a negative $2.6 million. Operating income for 2014 was even better at positive $2,079,382. In 2013, operating income was in the red by $1,202741.
The District property tax amounted to $2,316,041 in 2015 and $2,332,849. Those totals are part of the total profit, but are not included in operating income profit.

Big Valley voters to decide ALS service May 3

Voters in Big Valley will decide in a Special Election May 3, 2016 to consider forming a special district and adopting a tax assessment to fund local ambulance, emergency medical response and training.
The election will be mail-in only ballots and voters will decide on Measure E to form the District and Measure F to approve a $65 per parcel annual tax to fund the District.
Since the proposed Southern Cascades Community Services District in northwestern Lassen County and southwestern tax issue has been voted down by slim margins two times, organizers are counting on the third time getting them over the two-thirds majority hump.
The last election, May 5, 2015, got 66.1 percent of the vote, but it failed by four votes. It needed 66.7 percent of the vote.
The measure to establish the District passed handily 421-198, but the measure to establish the $65 per parcel tax to fund the district failed, meaning both issues failed.
If passed, the ambulance would be stationed in Adin. As it stands now, Big Valley residents must rely on ambulances from either Modoc Medical Center in Alturas or Mayers Memorial in Fall River Mills. The response time for either ambulance is often more than 40 minutes.

March jobless rate dips to 9.9%

Modoc’s March 2016 unemployment rate dipped to 9.9 percent from February’s 10.1 percent, according to the state Employment Development Department.
According to EDD, the civilian labor force numbered 3,190, up from 3,130 in February and the number of employed persons was 2,870 up from 2,810. The number of unemployed stayed the same at 320.
In March 2015 the civilian labor force was higher at 3,230 people with the number employed at 2,890 and unemployed at 340. Last March the jobless rate was 10.6 percent.
Government employment increased from 1,180 in February to 1,210 in March. That’s up from last March when it stood at 1,170. State and local government accounted for 1,010 jobs while Federal employees numbered 200. Total farm employment went up from 230 in February to 270 in March. Total non-farm went up from 2,180 to 2,210.
Modoc’s 9.9 percent jobless rate ranked it 45th of the state’s 58 counties for highest unemployment. Lassen County ranked 36th at 8.3 percent and Siskiyou ranked 50th at 10.8 percent. The highest jobless rate was in Colusa at 20.6 percent and the lowest was in San Mateo at 3.0 percent.

Obituaries—
Donald Charles Preston
Donald Charles Preston of Alturas, a World War II Veteran and patriarch of his family, was called home to be with his Ancestors on April 10, 2016. Mr. Preston, 89, passed at Renown Hospital in Reno, NV, due to complications from pneumonia.
Born in Alturas, CA on January 11, 1927, Mr. Preston attended Sherman Institute in Riverside, CA from the time he left Alturas at the young age of 11, until he graduated at age 17
Mr. Preston’s services will be held Friday, April 22 at 1 p.m. at the Federated Church in Alturas with Cemetery service to follow at the Alturas Cemetery at 900 East 8th Street, Alturas, CA.

Gail J. Lennon
Gail Jeanne Lennon passed away on April 15, 2016 at Sky Lakes Hospital in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Gail was born in Washington, D.C. on November 19, 1940
Her burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at Hillside Cemetery in Nubieber and will be followed by a memorial service potluck at Bieber Memorial Hall.   All are invited to attend.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Farm Aid. 

Victor “Butch” James
Victor (Butch) Ray James lost his second battle with cancer on Thursday, April 14, 2016. He was surrounded by his family.
On the 10th of January, 1948 in Klamath Falls, Oregon, Victor was born to James and Anna James.. Services for Victor will be held June 10, 2016, in Noxon MT.

Donna Marie Blodgett
Former Surprise Valley resident, Donna Marie Blodgett, age 74, passed away December 7, 2016 in Eureka, CA. Born October 12, 1941 in Fort Bidwell to Austin and Catherine Sweeney.
Special thanks to all the doctors and nurses at Redding Medical Center and Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Eureka for their excellent care. Also thanks to Jason at Kerr Mortuary.
Family and friends are invited to a service for Donna at Cedarville Cemetery, May 28, 2016 at 10 a.m. in direction of Rev. Ben Zandstra.

Dorothy “Dody” Fern Essex
Dorothy “Dody” Fern Essex passed away of natural causes on April 16, 2016 in Alturas, CA. Mrs. Essex observed her 90th birthday on March 25.
Born Dorothy Fern Wilson in 1926, in Red Bluff, CA, she was one of two daughters, among five brothers
Family members will gather to pay their final respects at a date to be determined at the family plot at the Manton Cemetery, in Manton, CA, where Dody will join her dear husband Marvin Essex.

Kathleen Murphey Benner
Kathleen Elizabeth Jane Murphey Benner passed peacefully on January 26, 2016 at her home in Klamath Falls, OR. Kathleen (Kay) had just turned 94 on January 9, 2016.
We love you Mom. May you reset in peace with our Lord.

Dr. Daniel Williams Jr.
A memorial service for Dr. Daniel Atherton Williams Jr. will be held on April 22 at noon at the Veteran's Memorial Hall in Alturas, CA.  A second service will be held on June 18 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Alexandria, Virginia, to celebrate his life with his East Coast friends.  All are welcome to attend.
Dr. Williams died peacefully at the Modoc Medical Center in Alturas, California on April 6, 2016 after a brief battle with cancer. 

Robert Lovell
Robert “Bob” Lovell of Alturas, age 68 and a veteran, passed away April 19, 2016. His celebration of life service will be held on Sunday, April 24 at 2:30 p.m. at the Alturas Veterans Memorial Hall.

Memorial for Mya Star Townsend
On April 28, 2015 we lost our dear Mya. This was a devastating loss not only for her family but also for many individuals in Modoc who knew and loved her. On Thursday, April 28, 2016 there will be a memorial to remember our beautiful Mya Star Townsend on the Fort Bidwell Indian Reservation. From 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. there will be a Sticks and Stones presentation at the SV schools: from 4:30 p.m. - 5 p.m., in Fort Bidwell, there will be letter writing to Mya, blessings and a barbecue starting; feel free to bring your favorite side dishes. At 6 p.m. will be the letter burn, and at dusk there will be a balloon release. On Friday, April 29, there will be a Sticks and Stones conference at the Fort Bidwell Community Center beginning at 10 a.m. After lunch there will be a suicide prevention awareness walk. Everyone welcome to attend.

Sports

Modoc sweeps Burney doubleheader

Modoc’s baseball team was leading the Shasta Cascade League with a 4-0 record and 11-1 overall for this season, but ran into Mt. Shasta Tuesday here losing both games. That dropped them into third place.
They lost the opening game 3-1 with Alex Valencia getting the loss. He went six innings, allowed three runs on nine hits, struck out 10 and walked two. Tyler Doss pitched one inning, allowed no runs, no hits, struck out one and didn’t walk a better.
Mt. Shasta scored on in the first inning, one in the fifth and one in the sixth. Modoc scored one in the sixth. Wyatt Larranaga went 3-3 at the plate and Wade Schluter was 2-3 with a double. Jess Picotte had the sole run batted in.
“We could just not put the ball in play,” said coach Tim MacDonnell. “Alex pitched great, we just couldn’t give him any support.”
Jarrett Royce got the loss in the second game 8-2. He pitched six innings, allowing five runs on nine hits, struck out five and walked a pair. Doss pitched one inning, allowing three runs on four hits and walked one.
Mt. Shasta scored two in the second, two in the fifth, one in the sixth and three in the seventh. Modoc scored in the fourth and one in the fifth.
Doss, Royce, Valencia, Trevor Schluter and Wade Schluter each had a hit with Valencia’s a home run.
“Jarrett pitched great, we just made a few defensive mistakes that cost us,” said MacDonnell. “We couldn’t take advantage of the scoring opportunities that we had. We hit into four double plays in the second game.”
They beat the Burney Raiders Saturday 6-3 and 7-4 in a double header Saturday.
Valencia got the win for the Braves going five innings, allowing three runs on three hits, struck out nine and walked two. Doss got the save pitching two innings, not allowing a run, allowed two hits, struck out one and walked one.
Modoc and Burney were tied at 2-2 in the second inning and fell behind 3-2 in the third. Modoc scored three in the fourth to lead 5-3 in the fourth and added one in the fifth.
David Wheeler led the offense with a 3-4 day including a double. Willie Salinas was 2-3 and Trevor Schluter was 2-4 with three runs batted in, while Valencia, Larranaga and Salinas each knocked in one run.
Royce got the win in the second game pitching five innings, allowing two runs on four hits, struck out eight and walked one. Doss again got the save, pitching two innings, allowing two runs on two hits, struck out three and walked a pair.
The teams were tied at 2-2 after one and Modoc took a 6-2 lead in the fourth and added one in the sixth. Burney scored two in the sixth.
Valencia was 3-3 at the plate, with a double and triple and had three RBI. Doss was 2-2 batting with Brandon Hays 2-3 and Larranaga 2-4. Trevor and Wade Schluter and Larranaga each had an RBI.
Modoc meets Trinity here April 22, 2 p.m. and Etna comes to town April 29, 2 p.m.
Current standings in the SCL are: Mt. Shasta 3-1, Fall River 5-2, Modoc 4-2, Burney 4-3, Etna 3-3, Weed 0-4 and Trinity 0-4.

Softball team drops two to Bears

Modoc’s softball team had some trouble Tuesday at home, losing a double header to the Mt. Shasta Bears, 5-2 and 17-1.
Haley Valena got the loss in the first game, pitching seven innings, striking out three, allowing five runs on five hits and walking two.
The Braves led 1-0 through two, but the Bears took a 2-1 lead in the third and added three in the fifth. Modoc put up one run in the sixth.
Mattea Wilson doubled and tripled in the game, while Macie Larranaga was 1-3.
“We played solid defense but had trouble hitting the ball with a total of only three hits,” said coach Russell Turner. “It was a good game, but unfortunately Mt. Shasta hit the ball better than us. They are a good, all around team and their pitcher threw hard and well.”
The Braves lost the second game 17-1 with the Bears scoring nine in the second and eight in the third. Valena got the loss, going two innings, allowing four earned and five unearned runs on four hits and walked three. Wilson relieved and went three innings, giving up eight runs, with four unearned, struck out two and walked one and hit three batters with a pitch.
Valena was 2-2 at the plate, while Larranaga and Wilson each had a hit.
“We fell apart defensively in the second game to put it bluntly,” said Turner. “We allowed routine fly balls to drop because of not running full speed to the ball and or lack of communication between fielders. We also had dropped fly balls and bad throws. I’m very disappointed with this game.”
Track team has hot day
The Modoc High School Track and Field team was back in action on April 16 at the John Frank Memorial at Central Valley High School. The Braves competed well despite being a bit plagued by injuries. Several of the athletes on the team were out for the meet and a few were late scratches from events for precautionary reasons.
In the varsity boy’s division, Jonas Collier competed in the long jump and the triple jump, where he placed fourth overall with a jump of 10’ 5.75”. Sean Anderson competed in the 100m, 200m and the shot put. Anderson ran the 200m with a time of 25.26. Zach Norby competed in the 100m, 200m, 400m and the 300m hurdles, where he ran a time of 47.04.
In the JV boy’s division, Tanner Smith saw action for the first time this season. He threw the Shot Put 35’7” and also competed in the 400m. Logan Van Sickle continued to improve as well. He ran the 400m, 800m, 1500m and the 3000m. Logan turned in a time of 2:53. Matthew Blankenship competed in the long jump, triple jump, 100m and 200m.
In the varsity girl’s division, Emily Lowery competed in the high jump, 400m and 800m. Cindy Cohen competed in the 400m, 1500m, 300m hurdles and 3000m, where she ran a season best time of 12:44. Madison Toomey had a nice day as well, running the 400m, 800m, 1500m and threw the Discus. Toomey turned in new personal bests in the 400m (71 sec) and 800m (2:52). Merle Seiler continued to improve, competing in the long jump, triple jump, 800m and the discus.
In the JV girl’s division, Hailey Hopkins ran very well, competing in the 400m, 800m, 1500m and the 3000 m. Hopkins’ clocked a 1500m time of 5:58. Taylor Ryan also competed in the 400m and 800 m, events that she ran for the first time this season.
“I think we had some setbacks this week,” said coach Luke Hughes. “The injuries are frustrating for us, but they are part of the sport and our kids understand that. They will be fine and we will be back to full strength soon. The weather was hot and I think that impacted most of the athletes in the meet. We are going to bet back to work this week and start making the final push toward the league Championships in a few weeks. I am feeling very confident about the abilities and progress of all of our kids and am expecting big things from them moving forward.”
The Braves will compete next at the Lithia Invitational at Mazama High School in Klamath Falls, OR on Saturday.

April 28, 2016

News

Modoc jail escapee captured after high-speed chase

On April 21, 2016, at about 5:30 a.m., a Modoc County Correctional Officer discovered that inmate Joshua Helgeson, age 30, was missing from his housing unit in the Modoc Jail.
The jail was immediately put on lock down and additional officers were called in to assist locating the escaped inmate.
It was discovered that the Helgeson had damaged the ventilation system to access the attic area of the facility where he removed another vent and gained access to the roof.
It is believed that Helgeson then made a 15-foot drop into the secured east area of the Sheriff’s office and then crawled under a locked gate. At that point, he left the area and apparently headed to California Pines. Sheriff’s Deputies patrolled that area trying to find him.
During the search of escapee, the Sheriff’s Department received a report that Helgeson had obtained a private vehicle and was no longer dressed in jail attire.
With the assistance from the APD, a CHP helicopter, CHP officers from the Alturas area and the Modoc County Sheriff’s deputies, the pursuit had lasted approximately 15 minutes. Helgeson ultimately abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, at which time Sheriff’s Office Deputies took him into custody at gunpoint at about 10:16 a.m.
Helgeson was found to be in possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.
Helgeson was being held on multiple charges of false imprisonment, assault on an officer and assault with a deadly weapon prior to his escape. His bail prior to his escape was set at $100,000. His current bail has been increased to $500,000.

Rural mailboxes vandalized, some contents stolen

There has been a recent rash of vandalism to area rural route cluster mailboxes in both Modoc and Lassen Counties.
Modoc Undersheriff Tex Dowdy said an investigation into the crimes, which not only includes damage to the mailboxes, but also some possible theft of personal information or checks and other items.
The mailboxes known to have been hit are widespread, including California Pines, Modoc Recreational Estes, Canby, Thoms Creek Estates, Cedar Pass, County Road 54 and others.
Dowdy asks that anyone seeing suspicious activity around the mailboxes report quickly to the Sheriff’s Office at 233-4416. Pay attention to types of vehicles, license plate numbers and descriptions of individuals.
Many of the cluster box users are now required to pick up their mail at the Post Offices. The Postal Service is in the process of replacing damaged boxes.

Crunch time in Big Valley ALS vote

It’s time to cast ballots in Big Valley in a Special Election May 3, 2016 to consider forming a special district and adopting a tax assessment to fund local ambulance, emergency medical response and training.
The election is a mail-in only ballot and voters will decide on Measure E to form the District and Measure F to approve a $65 per parcel annual tax to fund the District.
The Modoc County Clerk/Auditor’s Office under Stephanie Wellemeyer is handling this election this year. It’s important that ballots are mailed in or delivered to her office by Election Day or they must be postmarked by Election Day.
Wellemeyer reported Wednesday that on the Modoc side of the election 462 ballots were issued and her office received 209 back. 
“Of the 209, we've challenged 32,” she said. “So, if anyone is curious if their ballot was counted or not they can contact our office.  These challenges could be that a voter forgot to sign the ballot, or that they don't have their physical address on the ballot or that they have an address on the ballot that doesn't match what we have in the system.”  
On the Lassen County side, 557 were issued, 253 returned and of those 63 have been challenged or undeliverable.
Contact the elections office at 530-233-6204.

Martinez appointed to Fair Board

Tiffany Martinez, 33, of Lake City, has been appointed to the 34th District Agricultural Association, Modoc District Fair Board of Directors. Martinez has been deputy clerk for the Modoc County Board of Supervisors since 2015.
She was executive director at the Shasta County Farm Bureau from 2010 to 2015. Martinez is a member of the California Cattlemen’s Association, Shasta County Cattlewomen’s Association and the Shasta County Farm Bureau. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation.

Obituaries –
Robert “Bob” Lovell
On April 19, 2016, a golden heart stopped beating, hardworking hands were put to rest and God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best. 
Robert “Bob” Lee Lovell, 68, of Alturas, CA passed away Tuesday, April 19, 2016 after spending the morning doing what he loved…fishing.
Bob was born June 1, 1947 in Bishop, CA to Frona Fay Peterson
A celebration of life was held April 23 at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Alturas, where he was also honored as a Military Veteran.  Close family will gather at a later date for private graveside services. 

Melvena “Bobbie” Hall
Melvena Ruth “Bobbie” Lovelace was born September 12, 1944 in Yreka, CA. She met the love of her life, Harold Lloyd Hall, upon his U.S. Army discharge
Her loving partner, Lloyd, passed away on Feb. 4, 2008, after they had shared 50 years together. Melvena passed away March 20, 2016 at the age of 71.
Services were held March 26 at the Likely Cemetery, where she was laid to rest next to her beloved Lloyd. A potluck followed at the Likely Fire Hall.
The family gives special thanks to all the good people who showed up to attend the services and the gathering to honor their loved one. All the expressions of sympathy and support mean more than words can say.

Robert C. Vincent
Robert C. Vincent passed away at his home in Yreka, CA. on April 23, 2016.
Bob was born in Willow Ranch, CA. on May 13, 1939 to Charles and Georgia Vincent. He was raised on the family ranch;  going to elementary school in Willow Ranch and high school in Alturas, CA.
Services will be held Friday, April 29 at 11:00 a.m. at Miners Inn Convention Center ( North Annex ) at 122 East Miner St., Yreka, CA. (Entry on North Main St. behind motel). Viewing on Thursday evening, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest a contribution to the Madrone Hospice of Yreka, CA.

Memorial for Mya Star Townsend
On April 28, 2015 we lost our dear Mya. This was a devastating loss not only for her family but also for many individuals in Modoc who knew and loved her. On Thursday, April 28, 2016 there will be a memorial to remember our beautiful Mya Star Townsend on the Fort Bidwell Indian Reservation. From 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. there will be a Sticks and Stones presentation at the SV schools: from 4:30 p.m. - 5 p.m., in Fort Bidwell, there will be letter writing to Mya, blessings and a barbecue starting; feel free to bring your favorite side dishes. At 6 p.m. will be the letter burn, and at dusk there will be a balloon release. On Friday, April 29, there will be a Sticks and Stones conference at the Fort Bidwell Community Center beginning at 10 a.m. After lunch there will be a suicide prevention awareness walk. Everyone welcome to attend.

Sports

Modoc Golf second in SCL

Modoc High School’s golf team concluded its league season last Thursday at Mt. Shasta and ended up placing second in the Shasta Cascade League. Mt. Shasta won the SCL title.
Ole Kyllo earned All-League honors and was second overall in the league MVP points competition. Jeremiah Brownlow and Tucker Lowrey earned League Honorable Mention for their performance during league play.
The last team event will be on Monday, May 2 when they go to Lake Shastina to participate in the Carl Holberg Tournament. 
Modoc finished the league season with a 16-8 record, while Mt. Shasta was unbeaten at 24-0. Weed was 2-22 and Fall River was 0-24.

Modoc whips Trinity

Modoc’s baseball team faced some nasty weather last Friday at home, handled it well and also whipped Trinity 14-1.
The Braves swept Lost River in a doublebill Tuesday there.
Modoc won the first game 12-2.
In took extra innings for the Braves to beat the Raiders in the second game 5-3. Lost River led 2-0 in the third and Modoc tied it in the fifth. The Braves led 3-2 in the sixth and the Raiders tied it in the seventh at the end of regulation. Neither team scored in the eighth, but Modoc won it with a two-run ninth.
MacDonnell said he was informed that the weather-cancelled Trinity game will go down as a forfeit win for Modoc.

Modoc softball blanks Wolves

The Modoc softball team beat the Trinity Wolves 14-0 Friday afternoon at home. The second game of the doubleheader was cancelled because of weather.
On Tuesday the Braves split a doubleheader in Lost River.
They won the opening game 9-4 with Haley Valena on the mound. She went all seven innings, allowing four runs on 10 hits, struck out six, walked one and hit one batter with a pitch.
The Braves lost the second game 4-2.

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May 5, 2016

News

BV ambulance issue in positive territory

While the official tally of votes in the Big Valley Southern Cascades Community Service District is not yet finalized, the issue is above the necessary two-thirds for passing now.
“It's pretty close again and we’ve posted some unofficial results,” said Modoc County Auditor/Elections Officer Stephanie Wellemeyer. “However, election code has changed so much that we have to wait for three days after the election to see if we receive any ballots with a postmark no later than Election Day. With an election this close, results do have the potential to still go one way or the other.”
Organizers of the ambulance effort remain cautiously optimistic that the end result will be a passage of both measures.
The unofficial results show Measure E, the district formation and Measure F, the $65 per year tax, both passing with the margin at just over 68 percent.

MJU geothermal well passes test

While the original estimate of a 2,000-foot deep geothermal was off a bit, the Modoc Joint Unified Scholl District re-injection well on Warner street passed the test and the project now enters phase two.
According to MJUSD Superintendent Tom O’Malley, the drilling went down to 3,240 feet and the 24-hour flow test showed 187-degree water at 235 gallons per minute.
There was some serious doubt whether the well would actually pass the tests last week and drilling deeper was authorized. That proved to be the right decision and the sense of relief for MJU officials was visible.
The bids for Phase II of the project went out this week. That phase involves the installation of 15,540 feet of six inch insulated ductile iron piping, well house construction and related work. Bid opening is expected by May 24.
The new pipeline will roughly go from the re-injection well on Warner north in the Airport property, under Fourth Street to Sixth Street and east to the existing AL-2 production well between Alturas Elementary and Modoc Middle School. The pipeline will the head from there north to Eighth Street where a connection will be installed for a new Modoc Medical Center building. It will then continue on Eighth Street, go under the railroad crossing on Eighth Street, under Main Street and to the existing geothermal well at Modoc High School.

Progress made on mail thefts

On May 3, Deputies from the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office served a search warrant in the 600 block of W. Park Street in the City of Alturas.
With assistance from the Alturas Police Department, officers and deputies recovered several bags of mail that had been recently taken from mailboxes in rural Modoc County and the City of Alturas.
Other miscellaneous stolen property was recovered from the residence along with counterfeit currency. There was also evidence that counterfeit currency was being printed out of the residence.
Local law enforcement advises area businesses to be aware of the counterfeit issue and check bills that look suspicious. Several have been passed to local businesses.
No one was home when the search warrant was served. This case is still under investigation and no arrests have been made at this time. The Modoc County Sheriff’s Office and the Alturas Police Department are jointly working this investigation with help from the US Postal Service Inspector.  

Mosquito control will start soon

The City of Alturas is going to get a head start, or at least an even start on mosquito control this year.
According to Public Works, the City will start spraying as soon as the mosquito conditions require, weather permitting. They will be spraying once per week and increase spraying to twice a week when needed. They will alternate between spraying in the morning hours to late evening, spraying as the sun begins to set.
Residents who have bees or vegetation they are concerned with are asked to make arrangements to have them covered or removed from the City limits.
Residents are also reminded to make sure all outdoor containers full of water are emptied and when irrigating don’t over-water and create standing pools.

Obituaries—

Lenora Renee Brazil Mensurati
Lenora “Lennie” Renee Brazil Mensurati of Alturas passed away at her home April 4, 2016, at the age of 50. She was a mother, a daughter and a beloved friend.
Lenora Renee Brazil was born in Marysville, CA on August 6, 1965 and attended Marysville schools and Marysville High before heading to Lodi to attend Cosmetology School.
Family and friends gathered to remember “Lennie” at a memorial service on Friday, April 8, at 1 p.m. at GracePoint Church of the Nazarene, Alturas, where a potluck followed.

Doris DeeAnn Groff
Doris DeeAnn “Punkin” Groff, age 71, passed away at Warnerview Convalescent Hospital in Alturas, on March 24, 2016, where she was a resident. She suffered with COPD and her favorite meal was a Pepsi, cigarette and a good book.
Doris was born in Alturas to George and Fern Dederick on December 13, 1944.
There are no services planned at this time. If you so choose, the family asks that donations in Doris’ name be made to the charity of your choice.

Joan E. Davis
On May 1, 2016 our beloved, Joan Eleanor Davis, known to her family and friends as “Mom,” “Deeta,” “Jo” or “Joann” was called home.  Born April 23, 1934 in Riverside, California, Joan Wallace was the middle child of three girls, born to Warren Wallace and Thelma Wallace (Williams).
At Jo’s request there will be no services, however we will have a celebration of life later, possibly in June.  We will let everyone know when we have the celebration and ask anyone/everyone who wants to share in the celebration to come and bring a dish of their choice to share and a chair – details will follow.  She was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Zelma Packnett
Born October 8, 1923 in Eagletown, Oklahoma, Zelma Packnett died May 1, 2016 in Alturas, CA. Survived by daughters, Juanice Schram of Madras, OR and Treva Buhli of Reno, NV; granddaughter Amy Clark of San Francisco and two great grandsons. She was pre-deceased by husband, Jesse and granddaughter Staci Schram. No services at her request. Donations can be made in her name to the Federated Church Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 1291, Alturas, CA 96101.

Paul W. Williams
Paul West Williams was born April 3, 1952 in Alturas, CA to West G. and Lucille (Auble) Williams.

Sports

Modoc sweeps Etna in baseball

The Modoc Braves baseball team, at 17-3 for the season and 8-2 in Shasta Cascade League, play took a double-bill from Etna Friday.
Alex Valencia got the win in the first game, pitching a seven innings, two-hit shutout. He walked tree and struck out nine.
Trevor Schluter was 2-3 at the plate with two runs batted in and Wyatt Larranaga was 2-4 with two RBI. Valencia, Wade Schluter, Jess Picotte and Tyler Doss each had a hit.
Etna took a 2-0 lead in the first inning of the second game and led 4-0 in the third. Modoc scored a pair in the third; two in the sixth and one in the seventh for the 5-4 win.
Jarrett Royce was the winning pitcher. He tossed seven innings, allowing four runs on eight hits, struck out a dozen and walked one.
Wade Schluter was 3-4 batting, with Trevor Schluter and Doss 2-4. Valencia and Brandon Hays each had a hit.
Modoc finishes league play in Weed May 5. The section playoff opener will be May 13 at 4 p.m.. The opponent is not yet known.

Golf team wraps up season

Modoc High School’s Golf team finished the regular season with a tournament in Weed.  Players scores as follows: Ole Kyllo-94; Jeremiah Brownlow-100; Tucker Lowrey-105; Dillon Gould-116; and Mavrick Farnam-134
“We’ve had an enjoyable and productive season,” said coach Harold Montague. “I’m really impressed with the huge improvement I have seen in several of our golfers this season and hope they continue with their progress by getting out and practicing and playing a lot this summer.” 
The team awards night will be Wednesday, May 11 at 5:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Golf Course. 
Kyllo and Brownlow will be playing at the Division III Championship at Plumas Pines Golf Course on Tuesday, May 10 and Montague hopes they both advance to the Section Masters Championship the following week.

Braves split with Etna in softball

The Modoc Braves softball split a double-header with the Etna Lions April 29, winning the first game 5-4 and losing the second 16-10.
The Braves led 5-0 after five innings in the opening game, and were able to hold an Etna onslaught to four runs in the seventh.
Haley Valena got the win, going seven innings, allowing four runs on six hits, struck out nine and hit two batters with the pitch.
Boston McAdams was 2-2 at the plate, while Macie Larranaga was 2-3 with a pair of doubles and three runs batted in. Dawn Waterman was 2-4 and Valena was 1-2.
The nightcap was a different story as Modoc committed 10 errors and allowed 16 runs and seven hits.
The Braves led 2-0 in the second, but Etna put up seven runs in the third, two in the fifth, five in the sixth and two in the seventh. Modoc scored eight in the fifth.
Valena got the loss, pitching seven innings, allowed seven hits, walked four and struck out four. She also hit one batter with a pitch.
Larranaga was 2-4 at the plate, Mattea Wilson was 2-5 with a double and triple, Caitlyn O’Malley, Waterman, Kameron Slinkard and Malinda Brannon each had one hit.

May 12, 2016

News

Third time charm, BV passes ambulance district

Voters in the Big Valley area passed the Southern Cascades Community Service District and its related funding measure in a May 3 vote. The final mail-in ballots have been counted and Modoc County Elections Officer Stephanie Wellemeyer reports that the measures combined now have more than the two-thirds requirement for passage.
The proponents convinced both the Lassen and Modoc County Boards of Supervisors to allow a third effort to get the issue passed after it failed by four votes in 2015. Both Boards agreed to take the chance. Measure E on the ballot was asking whether to form an ambulance district and Measure F asked voters to approve a $65 annual parcel tax to fund the district.
This time around, the combined issues had a 68.32 majority in favor. That’s a narrow victory, but getting two thirds of the population to approve a tax measure is difficult.
The latest May 6 unofficial results show Measure E in Modoc is passing by 67.85 percent with a vote 211 in favor and 100 against. In Lassen County the measure passed by 72.20 percent, 226 for and 87 against.
Measure F, the tax question, passed in Modoc County by a 66.35 percent margin, 207 in favor and 105 against. Lassen voters were in favor of the tax by 70.29 percent, 220 to 93. Lassen voters put the tax measure over the necessary two-thirds majority. Wellemeyer said only two challenged ballots were left pending and even if those voted no, it would not be enough to defeat the two measures. It appears the margin was by about 10 votes.

BV working group moving forward

Clinton Davis, Chairman of the Big Valley EMS Working Group made the following statement Tuesday.
"The Big Valley Emergency Medical Services Working Group (BVEMSWG) and the people of Southern Modoc and Northern Lassen Counties have accomplished the biggest step in reestablishing local Advanced Life Support (ALS) Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to our area. It is expected that Stephanie Wellemeyer, Modoc County Clerk/Auditor, will certify the passage of Measures E and F by the middle of this week. Certifications of the election will then be made by Board of Supervisors in both Lassen and Modoc Counties.”   The final approval will be by Lassen County LAFCO, the lead agency in establishment of the Southern Cascades District. This will lead to the establishment of the Southern Cascade Community Service District and establish the tax foundation to bring back Advanced Life Support Ambulance service to these areas. Local Ambulance service was lost in June 2013 when the Ambulance Station in Adin was closed.  
“This closure has stretched the EMS system up and down the SR 299 corridor paper thin and caused undo pressure to the neighboring agencies in trying to cover our traditional service area,” Davis said.

County takes on South Fork mess

On Monday morning Modoc County Supervisors Kathie Rhoads and Geri Byrne escorted Shane Starr, a staff representative for U.S. Congressman Doug LaMalfa, on a tour of the South Fork of the Pit River.
The tour was aimed at showing Starr the remnants of the Modoc National Forest’s juniper cutting project, and giving him the chance to talk with local Juniper Acres community members.
The Forest Service has said the juniper trees were cut primarily to create a barrier that would keep cattle from breaking down the stream banks. There is a livestock grazing permit for that area.
Bryne, who is a rancher, said the area looked worse than she imagined and said the project would not keep cattle off the riverbanks.
Both she and Rhoads will continue to stress the need for the Forest Service to clean up the project and find a different method to keep the cattle off the river. They will be offering some suggestions and the issue will be appearing on a future Supervisors agenda. Leaving the area the way it is now, they said, was not a viable option.

Registration deadline nears for voters

The deadline to register to vote in the June 7 Primary, or to change party registration status is May 23, according to Modoc County Clerk/Auditor Stephanie Wellemeyer.
The Primary election will include the offices of President, U.S. Senator, First District U.S. Congressman, Modoc County Supervisor in District Two and other issues.
Modoc currently has 5,014 registered voters with the following breakdown: Republican 2,518; Democrat 1,192; No Party Preference 959; American Independent 262; Libertarian 40; Green 22; Peace and Freedom 12; and miscellaneous nine.
Incumbent District Two Supervisor Patricia Cullins is being challenged by Jeff Bullock.
District One Congressman Republican Doug LaMalfa is facing several challengers. They include: Democrats Jim Reed of Red Bluff, a Taxpayer Advocate and David Peterson, Placerville, an Accountability System Developer; Republicans, Gregory Cheadle, Redding, a Real Estate Broker, Joe Montes, Chico, a small businessman, Gary Allen Oxley, an Emergency Room Nurse; and Independent Jeff Gerlach, Lincoln, a Technology Consultant.

Obituaries—

C.L. “Tony” Duncan
C.L. Duncan, known as “Tony” to his family and friends, passed away in Redding, CA on December 1, 2015, at the age of 72.
Tony was born in Bakersfield, CA to Earl and Marie Duncan on May 19, 1943. He was the second child
A military graveside service will be held at the Alturas Cemetery on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. There will be a Celebration of Life after services at the Duncan residence in California Pines, 175 Ridge View Drive.

Jennifer Christine Young
Jennifer Christine Young of Alturas passed away in her home on May 7, 2016, after a brief illness.
Jenny was born on June 19, 1972, in Sacramento, CA. She mostly grew up in Redding and also lived in Washington
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 14 at 11 o’clock in the morning, at the Church of the Firstborn, located at the corner of Eighth and Mill Streets in Alturas.
She will be dearly missed. The Make a Wish Foundation may be considered for donations in her memory, to grant more wishes that transform the lives of kids with life-threatening medical conditions, forever.

Martha “Marty (Cook) Ohe
Martha "Marty" Ann (Cook) Ohe, crossed over on April 28, 2016 with loved ones nearby and to be reunited with a multitude of loved ones, including her son Philip Ohe. She was born in Alturas, CA on December 8, 1939 and raised in Eagleville
Rosary was recited Friday, May 6, at 9:30 a.m., mass celebrated at 10 a.m., both at St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church; brief service will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Bakersfield, reception to follow. The family would like to announce that donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Disease Associaton of Kern County, in memory of her bravery. Please visit: http://www.crowdrise.com/runsf4marty-to-benefit-the-alzheimers-disease-association-of-kern-county.

Renae Lynn Ash Redman
Born March 21, 1951 in Alturas, California to Paul Ash and Betty White (Ash), passed away March 3, 2016 from ALS. In high school, Renae was very active in extra-curricular activities.  She enjoyed cheerleading, being a song leader and often held the position of homecoming queen or winter princess. 

Denise Cedotal
On May 6, 2016, Denise Cedotal, nee Anderson, passed away in Alturas, California at Modoc Medical Center. She had been recovering nicely from a February open-heart surgery, when the Lord took her home. Denise was born in Dinuba, California on December 6, 1956, and spent most of her childhood in the Santa Cruz area. She moved to Modoc County in 1973 to become a long – standing member of the I’SOT Community.
A memorial service will be held on May 15, 2016, at 10:00 am in Canby, CA, at the I’SOT Tabernacle. A private interment service will follow and a memorial tree will be planted in her honor in the I’SOT Family Park.
Before she passed away, Denise was at peace, chatting with friends that afternoon about the next snack she wanted to bake. The Anderson and Cedotal families and the I’SOT family will deeply miss her.

Roman W. Holloway
Services for Roman Wayne Holloway will be held Saturday, May 14. All are welcome to leave from Kerr Mortuary at 10:30 a.m., to begin the procession to the Likely Cemetery for Roman’s services. A potluck fellowship will follow at the Likely Fire Hall.
Roman was born March 20, 2016 to the Holloway and Flournoy families. He passed away on May 2, 2016.

Sports

Modoc faces Etna here in playoffs Friday

The Modoc Braves baseball team secured the top seed in the CIF North Section Division Five Playoffs and will open against number eight seed, Etna, here Friday at 3 p.m.
In their league meeting April 29, Modoc beat Etna 8-0 and 5-4 so the teams are familiar with each other. Modoc finished the season in second place in the Shasta Cascade League with a 10-2 record and a 19-3 overall mark. Mt. Shasta won the league with an 11-1 record and was 18-4 overall. Mt. Shasta moves into the Division Four playoffs.
The playoffs first round Friday has the Modoc game, while number two Esparto hosts number seven Portola, number three Los Molinos hosts number six Biggs and number four Fall River hosts number five Hamilton City.
The Braves finished the regular season last Friday at Weed and swept that double header 10-0 and 15-0.

Softball ends season with split decision

Modoc’s softball team ended the 2016 season with a tie and a win against Weed, Friday in Weed. Modoc’s team chose not to go to the playoffs.
Modoc finished the regular season at 5-6-1 in the Shasta Cascade League and 13-8-1 overall.
Modoc won the first game 6-5. The second game tie was 1-1 and called because of lightning in the third inning. 

Brownlow moves on

On Tuesday, May 10, the NSCIF hosted its Division –III Championship at Plumas Pines Golf Resort in Graeagle, CA. 
The remaining 30 players were now competing for the top four available individual slots for the Masters Championship.  The only two Modoc players were Ole Kyllo (who shot a 101) and Jeremiah Brownlow (90).  Brownlow tied for the last qualifying slot and will now travel to Portola to compete in the Masters Championship on Tuesday, May 17 at Whitehawk Golf Resort.

May 19, 2016

News

State’s ‘Top Two’ election model is different

California is now under a “Top-Two” model for primary elections and that issue has some voters a bit confused.
Basically, according to the Secretary of State, “A Top Two Primary lets you vote for any candidate (for most races) even if you are not in the same political party. The top two candidates – the two who get the most votes in the primary – will be on the General Election ballot in November.”
Prior to the Top Two model, each party could have one candidate on the General Election ballot for all party races. Now only two candidates get on the General Election ballot for most races – the ones who got the most votes in the primary – no matter what party they’re from. It is possible that the top two candidates in the General Election could be from the same party.
It’s important to note that only the following races follow the Top Two rules: Governor, U.S. Senator, U.S. Congress, State Senator, State Assembly, Secretary of State, Controller, Treasurer, Attorney General, Insurance Commissioner and Member, State Board of Equalization.
Modoc County Clerk/Auditor Stephanie Wellemeyer reminds voters the deadline to register to vote in the June 7 Primary, or to change party registration status is May 23.
The last day for the elections office to receive a vote-by-mail ballot is May 31.
The Primary election will include the offices of President, U.S. Senator, First District U.S. Congressman, Modoc County Supervisor in District Two and other issues.

Ft. Bidwell grounds get an upgrade

Fort Bidwell is looking great and is all ready for the Memorial Day Barbecue on May 29, thanks to a recent renovation and some fresh paint.
Since the 1960’s the Civic Club building has been used for various community events, from baby showers to brandings, holiday celebrations, memorials and even the antique car club luncheons. But all that use had begun to show and highlighted the buildings need to modernize a bit.
Last year the local Rotary Club invited the Civic Club to apply for a Rotary International grant, the Civic members were delighted to find out they had been selected for funding recently.
The remodel began thanks to local tradesmen and fire department volunteers.
The Rotary International grant helped with an upgrade to the electrical system, new light fixtures and fans. In early spring the Surprise Valley Rotarians came up for a work party to place the lighting and ceiling fans. Civic members held a hearty luncheon for the Rotarians and even welcomed them to the annual Saint Patrick’s Dinner free of charge.
Last week Surprise Valley High School seniors came by to freshen up the paint around the barbecue grounds and pull weeds. These were finishing touches to welcome the annual Memorial Barbecue celebration.
“Now that the work is completed, we hope you will visit us for the Fort Bidwell Fire Departments Barbecue on May 29,” exclaimed the Civic Club.

Public meeting May 31 for wild horse gather

The Modoc National Forest is currently planning to gather and remove wild horses from private and tribal lands. Wild horses to be gathered originated from the nearby Devil’s Garden Plateau Wild Horse Territory.
A public meeting will be held on May 31 to provide information about this gather operation. Forest personnel will provide an overview of planning activities and expected operations associated with the private and tribal lands gather including the use of helicopters and motorized vehicles.
This informational meeting is scheduled for 3-4 p.m. at Forest Headquarters at 225 W. Eighth St., Alturas. A questions and answer session is planned to address public concerns.
Gathering of wild horses that have left the Wild Horse Territory will allow recovery of range and riparian ecological conditions on the private and tribal lands, as well as reduce damage to privately owned fences and competition among wild horses and other uses.
Along with affected land owners, grazing permit holders, tribes and local governments are all partners in this effort.
Modoc County has been an invaluable partner in planning for this gather and overall management of the Devil’s Garden Plateau Wild Horse Territory. The BLM will be assisting with gather, holding and adoption operations.
For more Information, please email modoc_info@fs.fed.us.

BioBlitz is Coming to Lava Beds National Monument

Grab your magnifying glass and explore nature like never before in Lava Beds National Monument. On May 20-21, national parks across the country, including Lava Beds National Monument, will participate in the National Parks BioBlitz.
BioBlitz is a fun, fast-paced biological survey of a park’s creepers and crawlers, plants and pollinators, mammals and more. The National Park Service is celebrating its 100th birthday with more than 100 BioBlitzes across the country.
The Lava Beds National Monument BioBlitz will take place on Saturday, May 21. Volunteers can join scientist-led inventory teams to discover, count and document different invertebrates (bugs) both above and below ground. Participants of all ages are welcome and no previous experience is necessary. There will be sessions throughout the day and each will last about an hour and a half.
To register for the Lava Beds National Monument BioBlitz and to find out more information about the event, follow this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lava-beds-national-monument-bioblitz-tickets-20489169658 or visit www.eventbrite.com and search for “Lava Beds.” Participants who register in advance will receive free entrance into the park on May 21, as well as a free lunch.

Obituaries—

C.L. “Tony” Duncan
A military graveside service for C.L. “Tony” Duncan will be held at the Alturas Cemetery on Saturday, May 21, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. There will be a Celebration of Life after services at the Duncan residence in California Pines, 175 Ridge View Drive.

Wes Utter
Ernest Westly “Wes” Utter passed away May 16, 2016 in Alturas, CA at the age of 60. “Wes” was born in Cedarville, CA on October 18, 1955 and attended Surprise Valley schools.
In lieu of flowers, Wes would have said, “take a kid fishing.”
An informal gathering will be held at Wes’ home in Alturas on Saturday, May 21 at 1 p.m.

Michael “Mike” R. Main
Our loving husband and devoted father and friend Michael "Mike" Richard Main went to be with our forgiving Lord at the age of 56, on the evening of April 12, 2016.
Mike was born on February 25, 1960 in Redding, California.
A memorial will be planned sometime in June. Our hearts are broken. They will never be completely well again. They will heal and we will function again, but healing the heart takes time. There is no hurry.

Robert W. Reeves
Robert William Reeves, better known as Robbie, was born April 3, 1973, to Bill and Evelyn Reeves. He succumbed to a short unexpected battle with cancer on May 11, 2016 in Reno, Nevada. He is survived by his parents, brother Matt, grandmother Marie of Eagleville and numerous aunts and uncles. Services are pending at this time.

Tina Penn
Tinarisa “Tina” Penn, age 54, beloved mother, daughter, grandmother and friend, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in her sleep on April 20, 2016 in Cedarville, CA.
A celebration of life and potluck will be held Saturday, May 21 at noon at the Cedarville Rancheria in Cedarville, CA. All are welcome.

Jefferson W. Kelley
Jefferson Walter Kelley of Cedarville, CA passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on May 13, 2016, while under the excellent care of the ICU in the Renown Hospital in Reno, Nevada.
He was born to Dexter and Beatrice Kelley on April 2, 1943 in Alturas, CA.
There will be a private memorial sometime in June. Please contact Jeff’s family at 530-279-2775 for memorial information if you would like to attend.

Donna M. Blodgett
Family and friends are invited to a service for Donna Marie Blodgett at Cedarville Cemetery, May 28, 2016 at 10 a.m. in direction of Rev. Ben Zandstra. The former Surprise Valley resident passed away December 7, 2016 in Eureka, CA. She was born in Fort Bidwell to Austin and Catherine Sweeney.

Sports

Braves drop playoff opener to Etna

Modoc’s favored baseball team had a bad outing Friday against the Etna Lions, losing the opening CIF North Section Division Five playoff game 5-3 at home.
The Braves managed just two hits in the game, while the defense committed nine errors. None of Etna’s five runs was earned.
“We picked a really bad time to play our worst game of the year,” said coach Tim MacDonnell. “We committed nine errors that led to five unearned runs. You can’t win in the post season making pre-season mistakes. Etna played a good game and their kid was tough on the mound.”
In other playoff action Friday, number two seed Esparto whipped number seven Portola 7-4; number three seed Biggs smashed number six Los Molinos 21-6; and number five seed Hamilton City beat number four Fall River 15-5.

Modoc Girls take SCL Track Title

The Modoc Braves Track and Field team had a stellar performance at the Shasta Cascade League Championships on Wednesday, May 11. The girl’s team took the team championship, while the boy’s finished in second.
The Braves will head to the Division 4 Championships on May 20 at West Valley HS in Cottonwood.

Cedar Pass Children’s Forest continues today, Friday

Local land managers and educators are offering the Cedar Pass Children’s Forest today and Friday at Stough Reservoir and the Cedar Pass Ski Hill on May 19 and 20, thanks to a grant from Alturas Rotary and the hard work of all involved.
This opportunity provides a wide variety of natural resources and recreation information, as well as classroom activities in environmental education for Alturas and Surprise Valley third through fifth grade students.
There will be limited camping at Stough Reservoir Campground during this time due to the Children’s Forest activities. Please help to make sure the children have a great experience and pardon any inconvenience this may cause.

Pleasant Valley wins Masters tourney

On May 17, the NSCIF Masters Golf Championship was held at Whitehawk Ranch Golf Course in Clio, California. Five teams and 12 individuals competed for the opportunity to advance to the NorCal Championships next Monday with the top two teams and the top four individuals not form the top two teams advancing. 
Pleasant Valley High School won the team and section title with a team score of 381. Noah Norton, also from Pleasant Valley was the low individual with a 68 on the par 71 course. Shasta High School (389) edged out Chico High School (390) by one stroke to gain the second berth to NorCal’s. 
Modoc’s Jeremiah Brownlow finished his season with a score of 113.  The top four individuals shot scores of 76 or less to advance.

Pop Warner sign-ups soon

The Modoc Football League Pop Warner will have a player sign-up and meeting on Sunday May 22 at the Latchkey building at 809 W. 8th St. in Alturas.
The sign-ups will be from 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the meeting will start at 7 p.m. The cost for registering a player in $150 for single player. There are family rates and possible scholarships available.
For more information, call Ernie Givan 530-640-3234 or Eric Nelson 530-630-1992.

May 26, 2016

News

BV vote certified, directors appointed

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday certified the May 3 vote for the Big Valley Southern Cascades Community Service District formation and its related funding measure.
In addition, the Board also appointed the initial Board of Directors for the district including John Gordon, Earle Campbell, Clinton Davis, Robert Fisher, Jean Ludwigsen and Kathy Peterson.
Modoc County Auditor Stephanie Wellemeyer certified the election as successful on May 12 and brought the issue to the Board for final action.
She states that Measure E to from the Advanced Life Support Ambulance District passed by a vote of 430 to 187 against. The critical Measure F, approving a $65 per parcel annual tax, passed by a margin of 427 to 198. It received 10 votes more than the two-thirds requirement so both issues passed.
On the tax measure, Modoc voters were in favor by 207 to 105 short of the two-thirds majority. But Lassen voters were in favor by a 220 to 93 margin, which boosted the overall total past the two-thirds mark.

MNF Memorial Day finds most areas open

As Memorial Day approaches and camping season begins, Forest personnel plan to have most campgrounds open and accessible except the Medicine Lake area and others at high elevations where snow is still limiting access.
The water will be turned on at most campgrounds and "Boil Water Advisories" have been posted where needed. Campers are advised to bring water just in case some campgrounds do not yet have water systems ready. Campground fees are in effect where posted in the Warner Mountains and Devil's Garden areas.
Though conditions are beginning to dry out in some areas, travelers are advised conditions can change rapidly. Please be prepared for changing weather.
Please also remain aware of fire danger. Campfire permits are not yet required, but this is a good time to get one at any Forest Service, BLM or CALFIRE office or at www.preventwildfireCA.org .
Road conditions: general spring road conditions can be expected, including frequent down trees, snow drifts, winter storm damage and washouts.

Modoc jobless rate takes big drop

The April unemployment rate for Modoc County dropped significantly compared to March.
According to the California Employment Development Department April unemployment dropped to 7.8 percent, from March's 9.9 percent. This April the jobless rate was better than April 2015 at 8.5 percent.
EDD reports the April 2016 civilian labor force at 3,290 with 3,030 employed and 260 unemployed. That compares to March when the labor force stood at 3,180 with 2,870 employed and 320 unemployed.
Seasonal total farm labor increased from 270 to 370 from March to April while total non-farm labor jumped from 2,210 to 2,310. Also seasonal mining, logging and construction employment increased from 50 to 90 employees.
Total government employment including local, state and federal stayed the same at 1,210.

Mosquito spraying to start this week

Mosquitoes are a normal, but maddening part, of Modoc summers and can be a real unwanted guest for outdoor activities.
The City of Alturas will begin its annual regiment of mosquito-control spraying on Thursday, May 26, 2016 after 9:00 p.m.
City residents pay a minimal tax to fund the mosquito abatement program, which does a good job in knocking down the buzzing population.

South Fork project still in the County's spotlight

On Tuesday, Juniper Acres community spokesman Gary Neil told the Modoc County Board of Supervisors that the residents of the community are concerned that if the issue is not kept in bright light, it may never get cleaned up.
Chairwoman of the Board Kathie Rhoads has been to the site recently and said she and her constituents were not satisfied with what's been done for cleanup so far. She also said she would be placing the issue on the next agenda for a progress check.
Modoc National Forest Warner Mountain District Ranger Tim Davis assured the Board and Neil that he will keep the project as a high priority and will be doing what he can to mitigate the issue to the best of his authority. Some work has been done since the last report in this newspaper.
The issue is the clear-cut of juniper trees along the South Fork of the Pit River just north of Juniper Acres at the Old Blue Lake Road Bridge. The trees and the related slash were simply left at the scene following the clear-cut project creating a mess.
The primary reason for the project was to protect that area of the South Fork riverbanks from cattle damage. However, the manner in which it was done would pretty much keep humans away from the river as well. Some ranchers have disputed whether the cattle barrier would be effective.

Obituaries—

Barry Wayne Hickerson
December 11, 1946 - May 11, 2016
Born December 11, 1946 in Klamath Falls, OR, Barry Wayne Hickerson passed away unexpectedly on May 11, 2016 from Cardio-pulmonary arrest while on an Alaskan cruise with this beloved wife, Valerie and friends Bob and Gayle Sato.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Barry's name to Nevada Association of Land Surveyors (NALS) College Fund, c/o Lumos & Associates, Inc., 800 E. College Pkwy, Carson City, NV 89706, or a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Life will be held in Barry's honor on Saturday, June 11, 2016 at 12 p.m. at 430 Country Drive, Fernley, Nevada to help his family and friends honor the beautiful life that Barry lived. It is requested that you please bring your personal memories, stories and even photos to share. RSVPs and messages can be sent to Rustycombest@sbcglobal, 775-843-5394 or DeborahThelin@gmail.com, (775) 560-8284.

Mitzi Chambers (nee Misae Nagai)
Mitzi Chambers passed away on May 7, 2016, in Reno, NV, at the age of 96. She was born on April 26, 1920, in Mountain View, HI, and was one of nine children.
At her request, there will be no services, and her ashes will be interred with her husband at the Alturas Cemetery during a private ceremony later this summer.

Harold "Hal" Looper
Harold E. "Hal" Looper of Overland Park, Kansas passed away after a brief illness on May 7, 2016. He was born February 14, 1942, in Klamath Falls, Oregon to Everett and Mildred Looper.
A private family ceremony was held at a special place he frequented in his childhood years.
The family requests that should you wish to donate to his memory to please do so to a cancer research program or to the Wounded Warriors Project.

Barbara Jean Ross
Alturas resident Barbara Jean Ross, 90, died Wednesday, May 18, 2016 at Kindred Transitional Care and Rehabilitation-Canyonwood in Redding, California after complications from a long struggle with congestive heart failure.
Barbara was born March 19, 1926, to a Polish immigrant mother and an English father, with roots dating back to the Mayflower.
In 2007, Barbara moved to Davis Creek, CA, continuing with her gardening and community involvement.
In 2010, Barbara bought a home in Alturas, CA, where she resided and continued with her gardening and community involvement until her death.
Cremation will be at Eternal Hills Memorial Garden in Klamath Falls, OR. Services will be held at Christian Life Assembly Church, 225 N. West B St., in Alturas, CA at 2 p.m. on May 31, 2016, with a final service and resting place at Cypress Hill Memorial Park in Petaluma, CA, at a future date to be announced.

Harry W. Wilson
Harry W. Wilson passed away on Tuesday, May 17, 2016 at the Royal Peacock Opal Mine at the age of 84. He was born on March 20, 1932 to Harry L and Mabel M Wilson in Cedarville, California.
A Celebration of Life will be held June 2, 2016 at Modoc District Fairgrounds at 12 p.m. in Cedarville, California.

Charles "Chuck" Prewitt
Charles (Chuck) Wayne Prewitt, previously of Alturas, CA, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2016 at Modoc Medical Center in Alturas, CA. Chuck was residing in Pinedale, WY at the time of his death. An obituary will follow.

Kemery E. Thomason
Kemery Eugene Thomason passed away Sunday, May 15, 2016 at his home in Susanville, California. He was born on November 11, 1939, in Salisbury, North Carolina.
Services with military honors were held Friday, May 20, 2016, 11 a.m. at Diamond Crest Cemetery, Susanville, CA with Rev. Ardel Busby officiating. Kemery will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Donna M. Blodgett
Family and friends are invited to a service for Donna Marie Blodgett at Cedarville Cemetery, May 28, 2016 at 10 a.m. in direction of Rev. Ben Zandstra. The former Surprise Valley resident passed away December 7, 2016 in Eureka, CA. She was born in Fort Bidwell to Austin and Catherine Sweeney.

Sports

Pair of thinclads qualifies for Section meet

A pair of Modoc track athletes have qualified for the CIF North Section Finals May 27 at West Valley High School.
Cindy Cohen had the best overall day for the Braves in qualifying to move on. She won the 1,600 meters in 6:00 and the 3,200 meters in 13:15. Those were both personal best times for her this season.
Jonas Collier also qualified to move on with a 41-6.25 triple jump, placing second at small schools.
“I’m very proud of the way our kids competed at this meet and all season,” said coach Luke Hughes. “They fought hard and battled some horrible weather at this meet. It’s a great feeling to have two of our student athletes heading to the Section Finals to go up against the top talent in Northern California.”
Troy Culp placed second in the discus with a toss of 113-11 and third in the shot put. Sean Anderson placed seventh in the 100 meters and sixth in the 200 meters with a time of 25.46. He was also fifth in the discus at 93-5. Zach Norby was fifth in the 300 hurdles at 47.81 and sixth in the 110 hurdles. Collier placed sixth in the 800 meters and seventh in the long jump.
In other girl’s results, Hailey Hopkins was third in the 3,200 meters at 14:21 and fifth in the 1,600 meters at 6:27. Taylor Ryan was fifth in the 3,200 meters at 14:39 and seventh in the 1,600 meters at 6:48. Emily Lowery placed sixth in the 800 meters at 2:48. Madison Toomey placed sixth in the 400 meters at 70.0 and seventh in the 800 meters at 2:50.
The girl’s 4x400 meter relay team of Toomey, Lowery, Hopkins and Kayla Aarstad placed second at 4:47.

Bulls and broncs this Saturday

A battle of the bulls and broncs is set for this Saturday, May 28, at the Alturas Livestock Complex Arena. Chutes are set to open at 6 p.m. and the night will feature 30 of the roughest, toughest bull riders around. 
Rodeo goers can grab their seats for only $15 at the gate or $10 pre-sale. Tickets are available at the Lazy B Grill, Niles Coffee Company and Antonio's Cucinia Italiana in Alturas. Kids 10 and under are free.
Souza's Bucking Bulls is proud to host this annual event along with sponsors Surprise Valley Electric, Modoc Veterinary Center, Alturas Ranches and numerous local businesses. 
Entertainment during the rodeo will also include a Mutton Busting, Calf Riding and the oh-so hilarious Dirt Bike Barrel Race. For information or entry questions contact promoter Manual Souza at 209-347-7305.

Valencia named to All-star team

Modoc High School's Alex Valencia has been selected to play on the North baseball team that will play in the Chico Breakfast Lions Club high school all-star Bob Busch Classic.
The North is headed by Red Bluff High School baseball coach Ryland Sanders and will clash with a South team on June 11 at 3 p.m. in Doryland Field in the Hooker Oak recreation area in east Chico.

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June 2, 2016

News

MMC funding approved for new hospital

Modoc Medical Center (MMC) received notice this week that the United States Department of Agriculture has approved a $35,130,000 loan to construct a new facility, subject to a number of conditions that the USDA has outlined in a letter to MMC.
The anticipated new facility project would include construction of a new hospital, clinic, ambulance shed, physical therapy department, and other clinical and non-clinical departments on a piece of property that MMC owns just South of Highway 299, between the Junior Livestock Grounds and the former Forest Service building. 
The loan will be a direct loan with the USDA and will have a 40-year term at an interest rate of 2.875 percent.  The loan will be secured by the existing tax assessment that MMC receives as a healthcare district.  MMC will contribute $5,483,900 out of its own funds towards the project to reach the total anticipated project budget of $40,613,900. 
“MMC currently has sufficient reserves to fund its portion of this project and MMC administration anticipates being able to meet all the conditions that the USDA has outlined in their letter to MMC,” said Chief Executive Officer Kevin Kramer.

Vote June 7 in Primary Election

Modoc voters will go to the polls June 7 in the California Primary Election. Some voters in Modoc will be mail-in only ballots and those must be in to the Clerks’ Office by 8 p.m. on Election Day.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Polling places are shown on the back of voters’ sample ballots.
Voters will go to the polls at the followings places: Cedarville at the Four Seasons Building, Fairgrounds; North Fork, Surprise Valley Electric Office; Alturas A, B, and D, Alturas City Hall; Alturas C, CDF Station 8th Street; Hot Spring, Alturas City Hall; Cal Pines, California Pines Lodge; Newell, Macy’s Flying Service, 530 County Road 196, Tulelake.
The Primary election includes the offices of President, U.S. Senator, First District U.S. Congressman, Modoc County Supervisor in District Two and other issues.
Modoc County Incumbent District Two Supervisor Patricia Cullins is being challenged by Jeff Bullock. Cullins was appointed by Governor Brown when Supervisor Jon Pedersen resigned.
Alturas voters will also decide whether an ordinance shall be adopted to impose a business tax at a rate of 10 percent of gross receipts on marijuana collectives and cooperatives operating within the City of Alturas. That issue will require a two-thirds majority to pass.

CR1 work starts June 6

The Modoc County Road Department states the County Road One construction project is expected to begin on June 6.
The project goes from Cedarville to Fort Bidwell and construction will be Monday through Friday. Weekend work is not anticipated, but could occur if the contractor, Eagle Peak Rock and Paving, believes it’s necessary.
Construction will be from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, but there may be times that the work will run later depending upon construction conditions.
The County says to expect delays of up to 10 minutes and every effort will be made by the contractor to keep delays to a minimum.
The project is expected to run through July 30.
SR 139 work continues
Drivers on State Road 139 from Loveness Road to 12.2 miles north of County Road 91 should expect short delays as continuing roadway work reduces the highway to one lane traffic.

Wild Horse gather planned for Sept 6-16

The public meeting on the Devil’s Garden Wild Horse situation Tuesday was calm and short, and the Modoc National Forest said it is targeting September 6-16 this year for a gathering of 200 horses.
Those horses targeted for the gather this year are on private and tribal lands and the Forest is mandated to deal with those horses. The plan is to utilize the wild horse contractors of the Bureau of Land Management, which are experienced in the process.
According to the MNF, the last gathering of wild horse on Devil’s Garden was in 2006, and since that time the population has expanded to well over 2,300 horses. The approved management population for horses in that area is between 206 and 402. The budget for this gather is about $600,000.
The massive increase in wild horse population has resulted in major cutbacks in livestock grazing as well as an adverse impact on wildlife.
While Forest Supervisor Amanda McAdams acknowledged this gathering might do little to relieve the strain on forage and the environment, it is a step. What is most concerning is whether major gatherings will be funded in the future.

Obituaries—

Darlene M. Moore
Darlene Marie Moore passed away on May 26 at the age of 62.    Darlene was born to Wayne and Beverly Moore, of Alturas, on January 17, 1955
There will be a potluck memorial service held on Saturday, June 4 at 3 p.m. at the Alturas park.

Charles Wayne “Chuck” Prewitt
Wilbur and Emma Prewitt (both deceased) gave birth to a son on April 18, 1944 in Orofino, ID. 
Traveling to Shasta Lake Cabins for a family reunion on May 19, Chuck fell ill.  The next day, his beautiful and gentle soul passed peacefully through the opened window at Modoc Medical Center in Alturas on May 20, 2016.
"You were one of a kind our friend.  Until we meet again . . . . . . . ."

James “Jim” Beckett
James Lee (Jim) Beckett went home, May 10, 2016, to become an angel with his dad and the many others who had passed before him. Jim was a resident of Alturas, California at the time of his death.
Celebration of the Life of Jim Beckett will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday June 11, 2016, at the Gospel Tabernacle Church at the corner of Ash and 4th Street, in Susanville, with a potluck reception at the Susanville Senior Center, 1700 Sunkist Drive, immediately following the services.
Jim was born July 30, 1978 to Jon and Tish Beckett-Green.  He attended Susanville School District and Lassen High School, graduating with the class of 1996.

Marilyn J. Waters
Services for Marilyn Joan Waters of Cedarville, will be held Wednesday, June 8 at 11 a.m. graveside at the Alturas Cemetery with the Rev. Dr. Ben Zandstra presiding. Marilyn was born to Emmy M. and Alexander Pedersen on August 27, 1932 in Alturas, CA. Marilyn passed away December 21, 2015 in Cedarville.

Sports

Track season ends on good note

Modoc’s High School’s track season came to a good end at the CIF North Section Finals in West Valley last Friday.
Jonas Collier triple-jumped 42-9.5 to finish in the medals. A jumper from Shasta High School topped the field at 44-0.
“Jonas’ mark was the top for awhile before an athlete from Shasta High School pulled off a 44-foot jump,” said coach Luke Hughes. “We’ve been chasing and looking to beat a couple of guys from some of these larger schools. And we got most of them.”
Cindy Cohen competed in the 1,600 and 3,200 meter races. She placed 12th at 1,600 meters at 6:11 and ninth in the 3,200 with a personal best of 12:46.

Braves Coach, Player top baseball picks

Modoc head baseball coach Tim MacDonnell was named the Coach of the Year in the Shasta Cascade League and Alex Valencia was named the Most Valuable Player.
Earning All-league honors were Jarrett Royce, Wade Schluter and Tyler Doss. Trevor Schluter earned Honorable Mention.

High Desert Scorpion 6th Grade wins Reno

The High Desert Scorpion AAU Basketball Club traveled to the Jamonit Reno Memorial Day basketball tournament over Memorial Day weekend to compete in the Largest AAU basketball tournament in the world.
The tournament held in two locations, Reno, NV and Las Vegas, NV featured over 2,500 teams this year. The club took a 6th grade boy’s team, a 7th grade boy’s team and a 9th grade boys team to the event.
The 6th grade boy’s team won the championship in the Level III division. They lost play in game that only decides which bracket the team competes in to the South Bay Scholars from San Jose on a three-point shot in the final seconds, 40-37.
From that point on the team rolled through their bracket defeating the California Rise, 36-14, the Native Athletics Warriors from Ukiah, 55-36, and then won the championship game against Bay City Red from San Francisco, 51-39.
Players on the team, which calls themselves the Sinister Six, as they usually only have 6 players, are Calvin Boyle, Owen Jaeger, Lexee Larranaga, Tre Larranaga, Christian Givan, Matthew Toaetolu and Jake Fee who did not get to attend because of an injury. They are coached by Fernand Larranaga and Ernie Givan. 

June 9, 2016

News

Cullins wins District II seat handily

Patricia Cullins, of Alturas, won the Modoc County Supervisor seat in District Two handily and earning a full four-year term. She had been appointed by Governor Jerry Brown to the seat to replace a Supervisor who resigned early.
Cullins received 71.4 percent of the vote, 317, compared to challenger Jeff Bullock’s 28.5 percent, 125 votes. She will remain in her position and the next term starts in January.
Supervisor Kathie Rhoads, running unopposed received a 97.45 percent vote of confidence in District Three and Elizabeth Cavasso, also unopposed received 94.2009 percent of the vote. Cavasso replaces Jim Wills, who retired primarily because of health issues. He will serve out the remainder of his term to January.
Measure G in Alturas, the 10 percent tax on marijuana collectives and cooperatives passed easily with 81.67 percent of the vote. Modoc voters also agreed with the statewide Proposition 50, suspension of legislators for wrongdoing with 77.56 percent vote in favor. It passed statewide by 75.3 percent.
District One Republican Congressman Doug LaMalfa will face Democrat Jim Reed in a November run-off election. LaMalfa earned 40.3 percent, 59,037, of the district-wide vote and Reed received 29.1 percent, 42,543. LaMalfa had to be above 50 percent to avoid a run-off. In Modoc, LaMalfa had 54.48 percent, 1,136 votes and Reed had 362 for 17.36 percent. Joe Montes, a Republican received 418 votes here.

Sheriff wants closed hearing testimony to remain closed

Last Thursday, the Pitchess Motion of Cherie Rhoades’ defense attorney, Antonio R. Alvarez, was denied. That motion sought sheriff’s records pertaining to the credibility of peace officer witnesses in the Rhoades murder case, including Sheriff Poindexter. 
Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk filed a separate, but similar motion asking the court to unseal the transcript/hearing of the Pitchess in camera hearing in the civil lawsuit of James Budmark v. Daniel Nessling in order to determine what statements Poindexter may have made to Judge Mason in that hearing and whether the statements were made under oath.   
Judge Beason has taken that request under submission.  It is not clear when she will rule. Beason has been assigned to preside over the Rhoades trial and handled other cases in Modoc County last week since both Modoc judges were out of the area attending a judicial conference.   
Funk’s motion asked the courts to unseal the confidential hearing testimony of Poindexter in a 2012 excessive force civil lawsuit by James Budmark against Deputy Daniel Nessling. The hearing took a different twist when the court informed the attorneys that apparently no record of the Budmark Pitchess hearing was kept. Accordingly, there was no record to unseal.  Sheriff Poindexter’s attorney Patrick Deedon, had previously filed papers with the court asking the judge to deny the DA’s motion and keep the contents of the Budmark Pitchess hearing confidential. Poindexter, through his attorney, renewed that argument in court on Thursday.
Judge Beason did not rule on that issue and has taken it under submission.  According to Funk “The situation is now complicated by the fact that on Thursday we learned that Judge Mason, when he presided over the in camera (confidential) Pitchess hearing held in the Budmark civil case in June, 2012, failed to make a record of what occurred during the hearing,” Funk said Judge Mason should have made a record of the hearing. 

Grant awarded for Barry Point restoration

 A $375,888.00 grant has been awarded to Collins Pines by the Sierra Nevada Conservancy for rehabilitating a severely burned landscape left in the aftermath of the 2012 Barry Point Fire west of Goose Lake in Modoc County.
The fire impacted more than 38,000 acres in the Modoc County region. The project seeks to reestablish native ponderosa pine on private land with public values protected by a conservation easement.
Lee Fledderjohann, resource project manager for the Lakeview division of Collins Pine and Lorissa Soriano, of Alturas, grant writer and public liaison, worked together to obtain the grant. Working with the Modoc Resource Conservation District, Soriano will administer the grant and be the project manager.
Collins Pine is a large property owner in Modoc County. The $375,888 grant is being matched by a $2.5 million dollar restoration grant from the Wildlife Conservation Board, a $500,000 restoration grant from CAL FIRE and other significant contributions from Collins Pine and other groups and agencies.
“Collins Pine is an amazing company. They could have walked away and left the charred landscape to be an eyesore and environmental hazard. Instead they focused their energy and money on helping the forest recover. They are choosing to invest in the future, in a crop that will take 80 years to mature,” said Soriano.

Nessling arraignment June 15

Modoc County Sheriff’s Deputy Daniel Nessling is facing arraignment on assault under color of authority misdemeanor charges June 15, 11:30 a.m. in Modoc Supervisor Court.
In February, a Modoc Grand Jury indictment charged Nessling with assault under color of authority, but that charge was dismissed by Judge David Mason, ruling that the Grand Jury could not indict on a misdemeanor.
District Attorney Jordan Funk then filed a direct complaint against Nessling with the assault charges.
Funk said it is important to note the ruling was a technical ruling on jurisdictional grounds; it had nothing to do with the strength of the evidence or the reasonableness of the grand jury's conclusions that a crime was committed. 
"So, the status of the case is this: the dismissal for lack of indictment jurisdiction leaves open to the District Attorney the route of ‘direct filing’ a misdemeanor complaint,” Funk said.
Nessling is accused of using unlawful force in the arrest of Jason Colt in November 2014. The County settled for $98,000 in the civil lawsuit filed by Colt (Wilson) against Nessling and the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office.
This was the second civil suit involving Nessling for alleged abusive behavior. Both were settled in the victim’s favor and the total cost to the County exceeded $170,000.
DA’s office has video evidence that “provided probable cause to believe that Sgt. Daniel Nessling assaulted Jason Colt (an unarmed arrestee who was handcuffed behind his back).”

Rhoades murder trial tentatively set for August in Roseville

On Thursday, Judge Candice Beason set two trial dates in the capital murder case of People v. Cherie Rhoades.  The first trial date is August 22, 2016 in Roseville.
A change of venue for the trail was approved because of publicity.
If a murder trial in Fresno involving Ms. Rhoades attorney, which was previously scheduled, is confirmed in late July, then the Rhoades trial will not proceed on August 22, since Mr. Alvarez will be unavailable. 
In that circumstance, Rhoades will proceed to trial on November 14.  The trial will be heard in Roseville and is expected to last three to four weeks.  According to Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk “The case has been delayed because Judge John Ball, our first trial judge, passed away unexpectedly in November. Judge Beason was assigned in January, but she first had to complete a capital case in Riverside County. I am pleased we now have trial dates that will allow us to adjudicate this case before the end of the year.”
Funk said his office will seek the death penalty against the alleged mass killer Rhoades, who is facing four counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder in a Feb. 20, 2014 shooting at the Cedarville Rancheria Officers in Alturas.

Obituaries –

Marsha Gail Kleiman
Marsha began her journey through life November 18, 1944. She was born in Merced, CA to Marian Towner and raised in Chowchilla, CA by her mother and stepfather Robert Pfiitzner. Marsha’s journey ended on June 3, 2016.
At her request there will be no services.
A celebration of her life will be held on her birthday, November 18, 2016.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Marsha’s memory to Skylakes Cancer Treatment Center, 2610 Uhrmann Rd., Klamath Falls, OR 97601 or to the Alturas Garden Club, P.O. Box 2101, Alturas, CA 96101.

Wilma Auble Leonard
Wilma was born Sept. 2, 1919 at Butte Creek in Lassen County, near the town of Adin, to Errol and Ivy Auble, early pioneers and settlers of Adin. On May 17, 2016, at the young age of 96, Wilma peacefully passed away at Mayers Memorial Hospital in Fall River Mills. At her request no services will be held.

Viola “Vi” Jeppson
A memorial service for Viola “Vi” Jeppson will be held on June 18, 2016, 11 a.m. at the Likely Cemetery. A potluck will follow at the South Fork Event Center, Likely.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either the Phillip Weed Memorial Scholarship Fund or High Plateau Humane Society.

Jim Beckett
Celebration of the Life of James Lee “Jim” Beckett will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday June 11, 2016, at the Gospel Tabernacle Church at the corner of Ash and 4th Street, in Susanville, with a potluck reception at the Susanville Senior Center, 1700 Sunkist Drive, immediately following the services.
Robert “Bob” Burelle
A celebration of life for Bob Burelle will be held on his birthday, Tuesday, June 14, 2016 in his hometown of Sierraville, off Highway 89, a ranch at the end of Jean Lane, just past the Sierraville Service and Country Store.
Friends and relatives are invited to attend. Bring photos and stories to share about Bob, who was a beloved Alturas Elementary School First grade teacher for 28 years. Bob passed away Jan. 18, 2016.

Barry Hickerson
A celebration of life for Barry Wayne Hickerson will be held on Saturday, June 11, 2016 at 12 p.m. at 430 Country Drive, Fernley, Nevada to help his family and friends honor the beautiful life that Barry lived. Please bring personal memories, stories and photos to share. RSVPs and messages can be sent to Rustycombest@sbcglobal, 775-843-5394 or DeborahThelin@gmail.com, (775) 560-8284.

Tina Lourenco
Tina Lourenco’s celebration of life will be June 18 at 2 p.m. at Fourth Street Baptist Church, Alturas. Pastor Ed Allen will officiate. Potluck to follow.

Sports

Cedar Pass Snow Park has big plans

The Cedar Pass Snow Park Board is planning big things for the facility, all aimed at year-round use.
Richard Lechner, one of the new Board members explained Monday that repair work is going on now and the plan not only includes making sure the entire facility is ready for ski season this year, but that other uses are in the works.
The rest of the Board includes: Rody Stains, Tony Ewing, Laurie Price, Jami Teuscher, Holly Stains and Aaron Teuscher. They have not yet elected officers, but will in the near future.
The new mission statement is ambitious. “The Cedar Pass Snow Park will transition in 2016 from a winter Ski Park into a year-round, family oriented recreation destination.”
They list the following as some of the new activities: lodge rentals for weddings, meetings, gatherings and over night hostel activities; children’s day camps; hiking nature walks; running events; mountain bicycle events; archery events; camping including groups; music events; free WiFi on site and art shows including all creative mediums.
Lechner and the Board know it’s an ambitious agenda, but they said people are coming together and the Board is committed to making things work. At this time, the crew has taken off the old deck and is replacing it with a new structure. In addition, work on the T-Bar and facilities will be done this summer so they will be ready once the snow falls.
“Volunteers are helping every weekend and we will be writing a three-year operation plan soon,” Lechner said. “We are excited and committed to making the facility a destination all year long.”
Additional help is always welcome. Go to the email at cedarpasssnowpark3323@gmail.com or call 530-310-6094.

DFW: Leave fawns alone

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife reminds residents to leave newborn fawns alone.
Brian Gallaher, DFW Game Warden on Wednesday said the mule deer does in Alturas and now birthing fawns at a fast rate. While people may want to help them, he said it is best to let nature handle them.
He also advises people outside of Alturas to leave the newborns alone.

Photo contest for Sportsman’s Expo

Another new attraction at this year's 5th Annual Modoc Sportsman’s and Outdoor Expo will be the Best of Modoc Photo Contest.
Participants are to submit an 8x10 photo taken in Modoc County. The photos should show what Modoc Outdoors means to you. Some suggested themes are all aspects of outdoor recreation, scenic, Native American, hunting, fishing hiking, biking, riding and birding. All photos will be judged by people's choice during the Expo.
The first place winner will receive a cash prize and have their photo displayed at the California Visitor's Center in Anderson.
Second and third place will receive cash awards. There is no entry fee. Guidelines for photos: limit one per person, no photo-shopping or computer manipulation, high resolution, 8” x 10”, may be matted, no frames. Must be taken in Modoc County.
Entry forms and details may be obtained at the chamber office or downloaded from the Modoc Outdoor Recreation and Tourism page on Facebook. The entry form requires: Name, phone number, address, email, location of photo taken and description of photo.
Attach entry form to the back of the photo. Bring the entry to the Veteran's Hall on June 18 between noon and 6 p.m. The winners will be announced on June 19 at 1 p.m.

June 14, 2016

News

Judge denies dismissal of Nessling case

On Wednesday morning Modoc Superior Court Judge David Mason denied a defense motion to dismiss the assault under color of authority misdemeanor charges against Sheriff’s Deputy Daniel Nessling.
An arraignment was set for June 28, 11 a.m. in Modoc Superior Court. The defense may file an appeal to the decision or the case may go to trial.
The case was complicated because of a February Modoc Grand Jury misdemeanor indictment charging Nessling with assault under color of authority, but that charge was dismissed by Judge David Mason in an earlier hearing. In that ruling, he upheld the defense’s contention that the Grand Jury did not have the authority to indict on a misdemeanor.
District Attorney Jordan Funk then filed the direct complaint against Nessling with the assault charges.
Nessling is accused of using unlawful force in the arrest of Jason Colt in November 2014. The County settled for $98,000 in the civil lawsuit filed by Colt (Wilson) against Nessling and the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office.
DA’s office has video evidence that “provided probable cause to believe that Nessling assaulted Jason Colt (an unarmed arrestee who was handcuffed behind his back).”

Sportsman’s & Outdoor Expo

The 5th Annual Modoc Sportsman’s & Outdoor Expo will run Saturday and Sunday, June 18 and 19 at Veterans’ Park and Veterans’ Hall, So. Main St., Alturas. Free Admission, activities for kids to adults; displays, photo show, demonstrations, vendors and more. Saturday hours: 9:30 a.m. -4:30 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Modoc Outdoor Recreation & Tourism.

New Discovery App for Modoc Refuge

Parents sometimes get frustrated when their children sit around playing with their smart phones. There's no denying that much can be learned from computers, however getting off the couch and enjoying the outdoors is important too.     
Discovering the relevancy of computers to real life and to the outdoors can open a new world of learning and opportunity to both children and adults.
With that concept in mind, the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge is getting smart. Officials from Washington DC are coming to Alturas to launch their new Discover Nature App. Adults and children are urged to attend Tuesday morning's ceremonies at the refuge. If you are one of the 165 million smart phone users in the U.S., bring your phone along.
The refuge is one of the first refuges in California to join the nation's new Discover Nature App Program. The app seeks to connect families to the outdoors in ways that are fun, engaging and educational.
“When the program is completed the app will help visitors explore most refuges and parks in the U.S. When on vacation the app will automatically inform you if you are within 50 miles of a park or refuge,” said Sean Cross, Deputy Program Leader of the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge.
Last November creators of the app, Evan Hirsche and Sam Serebin came to Modoc to film the refuge and to participate in the summit celebrating Modoc Outdoor Recreation and Tourism's (MORT) fifth anniversary. During the ceremonies sponsored by MORT and in partnership with the Alturas Chamber of Commerce, the men explained the reasoning for developing the app.
On the morning of June 21, visit the refuge meet the makers, learn how to download the free app, get smart and enjoy learning the secrets of the Modoc National Wildlife Refuge. The app works on all Android and Apple driven phones.

IRS files tax another lien against SVHD

The Internal Revenue Service has filed a second Federal Tax Lien of $142,170.27 for the tax period ending December 31, 2015 against the Surprise Valley Hospital District for unpaid employee withholding taxes.
That lien is on top of another lien amounting to $406,836.96 filed earlier this year. The total amount is $$549,007.23.
The District Administrator, Richard Cornwell, has said in public meetings recently that the District has paid down $252,000 of the lien amount. The Modoc Record has sent him a certified letter this week asking for proof of those payments under the public records law, including a receipt from the IRS.
The latest lien was filed with the Modoc County Recorder’s Office in May.
The issue is nonpayment of employer withholding for income taxes, social security tax, or Medicare tax from employee's paychecks paid as the employer's portion of social security or Medicare tax, on form 941.

Supervisors oppose Lakeview Mill’s plan for Modoc timber

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors took a stand at Tuesday’s meeting to oppose the Lakeview Oregon Mill’s request to waive the prohibition of importing federal logs into the Lakeview Sustained Yield Unit.
The Board’s goal is to support the Warner Mountain Lumber mill in Alturas, which has been in operation for more than a year. The Board drafted a letter sent to both the Region Five Forest Supervisor (northern California) and the region Six Forest Supervisor (southern Oregon).
Modoc County Resource Analyst Sean Curtis told the Board he and the Modoc Resource Advisory Committee came across the plan almost by accident. Neither Region Five or Six, nor the Modoc Forest Supervisor had informed the County of the plan. The County is asking the Regions to oppose any relaxation in the Unit’s operating rules.
The Lakeview Federal Sustained Yield Unit lies immediately across the state line from Modoc County within the Fremont-Winema National Forest in Region 6. The Unit is one of just two left in the nation, said Curtis. The other is in Big Valley, but no mill is operating within its boundaries. The Units provides timber to mills within its boundaries. Collins Pine is the only mill left operating in the Lakeview Unit
“The County is sympathetic to the struggles of the logging industry within the Lakeview Unit, but they have operated with a monopoly on the timber within that Unit for decades,” the County contends. “With that benefit, comes the counterbalancing downside of not being allowed to import federal logs. We also recognize the temptation of a large timber sale (Lassen 15) being developed on the Warner Mountain Ranger District quite close to the state line.”

Obituaries—

Tina Lourenco
Tina Lourenco’s celebration of life will be June 18 at 2 p.m. at Fourth Street Baptist Church, Alturas. Pastor Ed Allen will officiate. Potluck to follow.

Viola “Vi” Jeppson
A memorial service for Viola “Vi” Jeppson will be held on June 18, 2016, 11 a.m. at the Likely Cemetery. A potluck will follow at the South Fork Event Center, Likely.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either the Phillip Weed Memorial Scholarship Fund or High Plateau Humane Society.

Sports

Cedar Pass Snow Park wants some help

The Cedar Pass Snow Park Board has an aggressive and positive agenda for the area this year and could use some volunteer help..
The new mission statement is ambitious. “The Cedar Pass Snow Park will transition in 2016 from a winter Ski Park into a year-round, family oriented recreation destination.”
The following are some of the new activities: lodge rentals for weddings, meetings, gatherings and over night hostel activities; children’s day camps; hiking nature walks; running events; mountain bicycle events; archery events; camping including groups; music events; free WiFi on site and art shows including all creative mediums.
The Board knows it’s an ambitious agenda, but they said people are coming together and the Board is committed to making things work. At this time, the crew has taken off the old deck and is replacing it with a new structure. In addition, work on the T-Bar and facilities will be done this summer so they will be ready once the snow falls.
“Volunteers are helping every weekend and we will be writing a three-year operation plan soon,” Lechner said. “We are excited and committed to making the facility a destination all year long.”
Additional help is always welcome. Go to the email at cedarpasssnowpark3323@gmail.com or call 530-310-6904.

DFW: Leave fawns alone

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife reminds residents to leave newborn fawns alone.
Brian Gallaher, DFW Game Warden on Wednesday said the mule deer does in Alturas and now birthing fawns at a fast rate. While people may want to help them, he said it is best to let nature handle them. He also advises people outside of Alturas to leave the newborns alone.

June 23, 2016

News

City cuts dispatch rate to Sheriff

The Alturas City Council voted Tuesday to cut the payment for Modoc County Sheriff Dispatch from $375 to $200 monthly because of budget constraints.
A Memorandum of Understanding has been in effect with the Modoc Sheriff’s Office for 911 dispatch services for a few years. It was instituted by Sheriff Mike Poindexter and the Council generally approves the MOU under protest.
Also on Tuesday, City Treasurer Sara Peet administered the oath of office to Council people Bobby Ray, Jim Irvin, Cheryl Nelson and City Clerk Cary Baker. The four were incumbents and were not challenged to another four-year term.
The Council hired Eric Hunter, of Alturas, as the new City Fire Marshal, effective July 1. He was hired at a $41,216 annual salary and starts July 1.

May jobless rate improves

Modoc’s May 2016 unemployment rate took a pretty big dip, from April’s 7.8 percent to 6.7 percent, according to the state Employment Development Department.
That’s also a major improvement from May 2015 when unemployment was at 8.3 percent. The civilian labor force in May 2016 was 3,250, with 3,030 employed and 220 unemployed. Last May the labor force was at 3,310 with 270 unemployed. In April 2016, Modoc’s labor force numbered 3,270 with 260 unemployed.

SVHD refuses letter from Record

On June 14, 2016 the Modoc Record sent a certified letter to Surprise Valley Hospital District Administrator Richard Cornwell as a public information request for documents that could prove the District actually paid on some of the over $500,000 Internal Revenue Service lien against the District.
That letter, which is a legal and actionable request, was available for pickup in Cedarville on June 15. On June 16, the District refused acceptance of the letter and it was returned to the Record unopened.
The full letter is printed below.
Public Records Request
“Mr. Cornwell,
Consider this letter a legal request for public records of the Surprise Valley Healthcare District.
You have stated in public meetings, March and April, that you have made payments to the Internal Revenue Service of approximately $252,000 to pay down the $406,836.96 lien filed by that agency against the District.
The records I seek, as Publisher and Editor of the Modoc County Record, are proof that those payments were made. I request a dated receipt to your District from the IRS validating your payment and copies of the checks or warrants sent to the IRS.
In addition, please provide documentation that you have made the subsequent payments to IRS of employer withholding for income taxes, Social Security tax, or Medicare tax from employee's paychecks.

Davis to Chair BV ambulance board

The first meeting of the Southern Cascades Community Service District came to order at 7:10pm on June 16th, at the Adin Community Hall. Modoc County Supervisor, Geri Byrne called the meeting to order, then officially swore in the Board.
Lassen County Supervisor, Aaron Albaugh helped determine the length of the terms for each member with a drawing from the hat of Jackson Asmussen, Board member Jean Ludwigsen's grandson. Two-year terms going to Clinton Davis and Jean Ludwigsen and four year terms to Bobby Fisher, Kathy Peterson and Gordon Campbell.
Albaugh also helped with selection of Board Officers. Davis will be Board Chair with Vice-chair falling to Ludwigsen and Secretary going to Fisher. Once Board Officers were established the meeting was underway. Christy Asmussen was appointed Interim Clerk to the Board and Dan Bouse Interim District Manager. These are non-paid, volunteer positions until the Board can advertise and appoint.

Fireworks safety is stressed by CAL FIRE

With the Independence Day holiday rapidly approaching, CAL FIRE is reminding residents of Lassen, Modoc and Plumas Counties and visitors to these areas about the legal and illegal use of fireworks. 
All fireworks are prohibited in Plumas County. Within Lassen and Modoc Counties, “Safe and Sane” fireworks are permitted only within the city limits of Susanville and Alturas. With this in mind, CALFIRE will be increasing their law enforcement presence throughout these areas over the 4th of July weekend.
California has a zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include sky rockets, bottle rockets, roman candles, aerial shells, firecrackers and other types that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner.
It is illegal to sell, transport, or use fireworks that do not carry the “Safe and Sane” seal.  It is also illegal to possess or use any fireworks in a community where they are not permitted. Even “Safe and Sane” fireworks taken into a city or county where they are banned is illegal. A conviction can lead to a possible fine of up to $50,000 as well as prison time or jail for up to one year. 

Obituaries—

Tracy Wayne Clark
Tracy Wayne Clark passed away the afternoon of June 15,2016 at Trinity Hospital in Minto, ND.
Born in Norfolk, VA February 20, 1970, Tracy was 46 years old.
His mother Susan Marie Jordan preceded his death on May 30, 2013.
He will never be forgotten. Services will be announced at a later date.

Hazel J. “Sammy” Williams
Longtime Alturas resident Hazel J. “Sammy” Williams passed away on Tuesday, June 7, 2016 at her home in Red Bluff, California. As was her wish, she was able to stay in her home until the end, surrounded by her family and friends.
Just one month short of her 85th birthday, Sammy lived a long, active life.
Close friends and family gathered to pay tribute to the woman who made a positive impact on all their lives, during a memorial and barbecue held at the Elks Lodge in Alturas June 11. Her celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 25, at the Red Bluff Elks Lodge #1250, at 1:00 p.m.
Alturas is where she will forever rest near the men in her life. In lieu of flowers, the family humbly requests that all donations go toward fighting cancer.

Sandra Ford Mock
Sandra Ford Mock, beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away at Renown Hospital, Reno, NV, on June 11, 2016, after a one-month illness. Born January 12, 1944 in Maryland Sandy graduated from college and worked in marketing for many years.
 Sandy worked in Modoc County and at the Lassen County District Attorney’s Office “putting away the bad guys” where she retired in 2014 as Senior Deputy District Attorney after 10 years of service.
Services were private.

Hope (Eades) Yeager
On Tuesday, June 14, 2016 Hope Athalie Yeager passed away at 94, peacefully in her sleep in her home in Lookout, CA.  
Hope was born in Lookout on January 6, 1922 to parents Arch and Gertrude Eades.
Friends are invited to attend the Memorial Graveside Service to celebrate her life at the Lookout Cemetery in Lookout at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 25, 2016 with a  reception to follow at the Lookout Fire Hall. The family requests that memorial donations may be made in Hope’s name to the Lookout Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box #174, Lookout, CA 96054.

Evonne Rose Snow
A celebration of Evonne Rose Snow’s life will be held Saturday, June 25 at 1 p.m. amid her blooming backyard garden she loved at 407 East North St., Alturas, two blocks behind the Courthouse. A potluck will follow. Pastor Clarence McCarty of Christian Life Assembly will give the eulogy and provide music. Her daughter Shirlene “Plum” Snow of Alturas welcomes all friends and family. Mrs. Snow would have been 90 on June 25. She passed away Dec. 23, 2015.

Sports

Super Bull, Barrel Race Saturday

Get ready for some rodeo fun this Saturday as the annual Super Bull kicks off with the Modoc Horsemans Association 4D Barrel Race at the Modoc District Fairgrounds in Cedarville.
Barrel racers will gather at 9 a.m. to sign up for the Run-2-Win Primary co-sanctioned by the North State Barrel Racing Association. Entry is $45 and there will be $700 up for grabs. Admission to watch is free and the main race will begin at 12 p.m.
At 5 p.m. the grandstands gates will open for the annual Super Bull & Bronc Riding. Catch all the action including the wild and wooly Mutton Bustin’ featuring local kids ages four to eight.
The opening ceremony will also include the crowing of the Modoc Heritage Foundations J­unior Rodeo court. Vying for the queen crown is Charly Simpson of Lake City and Miranda Linker of Cedarville.
Tickets for the Super Bull are available for $12 at Seab’s True Value, Alturas Auto Parts-NAPA, Page’s Market and Woody’s Saloon. Tickets are also available at the gate.
Rockin ‘ER Bucking Bulls is the rough stock contractor and afterwards the Cedarville Volunteer Fire Department will hold a live barn dance.
For Super Bull entry information or questions please call 530-279-6383. Barrel racing information is available by contacting Amy VonTour at 916-261-2970 or email rodeoblondy82@gmail.com.

June 30, 2016

News

Celebrate July 4th on the Modoc National Forest

Independence Day weekend is a big recreation weekend on the Modoc National Forest. All campgrounds, trails, and recreation areas are open for opportunities to explore and enjoy the forest.
"Boil water advisories" are posted at campgrounds in the Medicine Lake area. Campers are advised to bring potable water if visiting Medicine Lake.
Fire officials are reminding residents and visitors to remain aware of fire danger. As temperatures rise and vegetation begins to dry out, fire danger increases. Everyone needs to use caution when camping, cutting fuelwood, and even driving in the forest. Know how to safely start, maintain and extinguish a campfire. This information is listed on a free California campfire permit available at any Forest Service, BLM, or CALFIRE office or at www.preventwildfireCA.org.
It is illegal to possess or use fireworks in national forests, national parks and on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. These regulations will be strictly enforced over the holiday weekend.

Nessling to appeal decision in case

The abuse of force case against Sheriff's Deputy Dan Nessling will be on hold since his attorney Joshua Olander Tuesday said he has decided to appeal Superior Court Judge David Mason's earlier decision denying his motion to dismiss the charges.
Olander, who appeared by telephone, said he intends to file a writ to appeal and wanted a two-week continuance of Tuesday's arraignment.
A status conference has been scheduled for at 11 a.m. July 12 on the status of the writ. District Attorney Jordan Funk said he anticipated an appeal would be filed.
Mason had denied a defense motion to dismiss the assault under color of authority misdemeanor charges against Nessling.

Fandango entries due June 26

Fourth of July Independence weekend celebrations, called "Fandango Days" festivities in Alturas open Friday, July 1and continue Saturday, July 2. On Friday, Alturas Chamber of Commerce will host a Classic Car and Motorcycle Poker Run (open to all vehicles). First through fifth place and worst hand prizes will be given away. Register at Main Street Park next to Plumas Bank, Alturas at 10:30 a.m. July 1. Run at 11 a.m. Score cards, $10 each (multiple hands can be played. Drawing stations close at 12:30. All score cards must be returned to Main Street Park by 1 p.m.
Friday afternoon, the public is invited to California Pines Lodge for an outdoor barbecue meal from 4 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Get tickets at the Lodge counter and enjoy the live music by Moral Hazard and the grounds and views until the big free Fireworks show over Cal Pines Lake at duck. California Pines Property Owners Association sponsor this annual display.
On Saturday, July 2, more Fandango Day events, start with a parade down Alturas' Main Street (Hyw. 395) at 10:30 a.m. Alturas Chamber of Commerce organizes the events. The 2016 theme is "Celebrate the American Dream," featuring Grand Marshals Dixie Server, Carrie Lee Anderson, Annette Mohr, Jim Phillips, Rollis Mann and Janice "Jan" Savage of Alturas, who volunteer their time and talents for the betterment of the Chamber and Modoc Museum.

CAL FIRE warns of dangers as fireworks go on sale

The sale of "Safe and Sane" fireworks is now legal in nearly 300 communities, including Alturas and Cedarville, which has CAL FIRE and local fire departments reminding everyone to do their part to prevent fires caused by fireworks this Fourth of July.
The Alturas Fire Department reminds fireworks users that fireworks are dangerous and potentially hazardous to users and the community. They ask that people insure they have a water source close and are not lighting fireworks near dry fields, structures and trees. Common sense can go a long way in keeping things safe.
CAL FIRE reports that over the past five years, more than 2,500 structure and wildfires have been sparked by fireworks, burning thousands of acres, causing countless injuries and costing millions in property loss.
"Illegal fireworks, or even the unsafe use of 'Safe and Sane' fireworks, are a major problem every year," said Chief Tonya Hoover, California's state fire marshal. "We have a zero tolerance towards the possession, sale or use of illegal fireworks and our officers will be patrolling the streets and Internet this week."

Obituaries:

Lynn C. Parkening
Lynn Claire Parkening of Cedarville, CA went home with the Lord on June 26, 2016. He was born March 9, 1940 in Omaha, Nebraska.
God saw that he was getting tired and a cure was not to be. So, he put his arms around him and whispered come with me. A golden heart stopped beating and hard working hands were able to rest. His loving wife was with him when he passed at their seasonal residence in Likely, CA.
Lynn's life took him from Nebraska to Los Angeles, where he entered the U.S. Marine Corps from 1957 until 1962, serving two tours in Vietnam. After his discharge, he worked two years in the dairy business in Concord, CA – reaching his goal to save enough to purchase his first restaurant in Orinda, CA, 54 years ago. He then bought a restaurant in Moraga. It was when he bought a restaurant in St. Helena, 23 years ago, that he met his wife Kathy (Leka), previously of Cedarville. After telling Lynn about Surprise Valley, they ended up selling the St. Helena restaurant and moving to Cedarville to buy Ila's Kitchen, changing the name to Cedarville Café, which they owned and operated side-by-side from 1999 until 2004. Kathy and Lynn were a good match and good restaurant business partners. When they sold the Cedarville business, with plans to retire, they took one year off before embarking on operating the restaurant/catering business at Likely Links Golf Course & Resort, where they have worked seasonally, building a fine reputation for their meals and brunches for the past 10 years. Lynn made many friends. He looked forward to deer and elk hunting in Colorado with a group of his close local friends.
He leaves his wife Kathy and four children: sons David and Timothi of Walnut Creek, CA and daughters Kathy of Walnut Creek and Karen of New York; five grandchildren and his sister Loretta of Banning, CA. Memorial service plans are pending.

Sports

Modoc girl’s stars head to sections

The Modoc Major Girl’s All-Star team is heading to the Section Tournament in Sutter Butte July 2.
Modoc won the District 48 tournament here by beating Feather River and Hall River last weekend.
They beat Feather River 4-0 with Lexee Larranaga getting the win in the circle. She struck out 10, allowed just one hit and didn’t walk a batter. Alicia Chavez was outstanding behind the plate and the defense was perfect. Larranaga and Aaleyah Munoz both doubled in the game.
Modoc’s offense came alive against Fall River, winning 10-0. Larranaga got the win with a one hit, 11 strike out, one walk effort.
Munoz was 3-4 at the plate, Jayla Derner and Jenna Nelson went 2-4. Nelson also played solid first base.
“These girls played great ball and I couldn’t be prouder of them,” said coach Jodie Larranaga. “ We would like to thank our community for coming out to support us and a thank you to Eagle Peak for your donation to the section tournament.”

MHS football players note

Modoc High football players will start practice, under new Head Coach Dominic Budmark, August 8, 6 p.m.
Budmark takes over for highly successful coach Shaun Wood, who chose to retire. Budmark has been the junior varsity coach.
Players must have their physicals done and the sports information packets turned in by the first day of practice. Weightlifting is open from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday at the MHS weight room and packets may be picked up there.

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July 7, 2016

News

Dahle opposes legislative gun laws

Assemblyman Brian Dahle, R-Bieber, voted against legislative Democrats’ package of gun-control bills, which he said will create major new burdens on law-abiding gun owners, hunters and residents of rural areas while doing little if anything to reduce gun crime.
Dahle said if signed by the Governor, the bills would restrict locally elected county sheriffs’ authority to issue concealed-carry permits, impose new burdens on purchases of ammunition, and would redefine many popular hunting rifles as “assault weapons” that could no longer be sold in the state, among other measures.
“It is hard to say which of these bad bills is worse,” Dahle said. “But it is especially frustrating to have the Legislature — in a late-session, gut-and-amend bill — decide to replace its judgment with that of the 58 locally elected county sheriffs over the criteria for issuing concealed-carry permits.”
Modoc County Sheriff Mike Poindexter agrees with Dahle’s assessment.
“I agree with Assemblyman Dahle and commend him for his actions,” Poindexter said. “California currently has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, yet gun violence caused by criminals, gang members, and those prohibited from purchasing guns such as the mentally ill continues.
“I, as well as most all California’s Sheriffs, are supportive of efforts to enforce the numerous laws already on the books against those who would use them against our citizens. I am and will continue to be supportive of domestic violence restraining orders, existing background checks and waiting periods for purchase of handguns.”
He also said, “Unfortunately, this measure would do little to prevent the criminal element from acquiring guns and ammunition via the black market or through theft. Instead, it would place additional restrictions on law abiding citizens who wish to purchase ammunition for sporting or hunting use, retain guns and magazines that are currently legal for them to possess, and pass historical or family heirloom guns down to their next generation.”

Clarifying SVCHD and IRS issue

In the recent past the Modoc Record printed that Surprise Valley Hospital District Administrator Rich Cornwell stated in public meetings, March and April, that the District made payments to the Internal Revenue Service of approximately $252,000 to pay down the $406,836.96 lien filed by that agency against the District. Another $142,000 has since been added by the IRS to that lien.
Cornwell has stated that he never did say that $252,000 was paid to the IRS in March and April. In that case he was correct.
However, he made a written statement in the April meeting (concerning March financials) that: “SVHD has an additional $527,740 in additional revenue that is not even recorded or budgeted to pay off the IRS lien against the building. $138,166 was received April 11, 2016 from Partnership. $126,801 was paid against the IRS lien, cleaning up three past quarters. As the additional funds allocated come in, the IRS lien will be paid off. The accrued penalties and interest will then be subject to abatement.”
Then in the May Board meeting, he made the following statement: “We also paid down our IRS lien, $126,801, that’s where a lot of our cash went.”
Now, he may have been referring to the initial $126,801 payment in March. The Record added the two together. That’s part of the reason the Modoc Record sent him a certified letter on June 14 asking for proof of the payments. The question that also needs an answer from the District Board is why the payments to the IRS were not made.

County Road One project smoothing out

The Modoc County Road Department is pleased with the quality and progress of the County Road One repaving project, which is tentatively scheduled for completion the end of this month.
“There were some rough spots and potholes, but those have or will be taken care of,” said Road Commissioner Mitch Crosby. “When it’s finished the road will be better than it’s been in years.”
Deputy Road Commissioner Steve Jacques said the contractor, Eagle Peak Rock and Paving has plenty of experience with the process and the finished project will be excellent.
Both said with the cost of material being lower because of lower oil proves, the County is able to do more and repair more miles of road. They said the County will be doing chip deals on about 60 miles of County Roads this year. Normally they would be able to do 25-30 miles. Projects are in the works for Newell, the Alturas area, Davis Creek and Surprise Valley.
As the contractor is moving along and providing the finishing touches to the pavement, the public is expressing fewer concerns.

No burning in Alturas

The Alturas City Fire Department has suspended all burn permits and all burning in the City until further notice. The suspension is because of dry conditions.
For more information contact the AFD at 530-233-4500.

Obituaries—

Pauline (Royce) Lloyd
Pauline Josephine Royce Lloyd passed away peacefully at her home on June 28, 2016 at the age of 86. Pauline was born in Alturas, California on January 25, 1930. She grew up and attended school in Alturas where she graduated from high school and went on to work at various businesses in Alturas.
Services for Pauline were held on July 6, 2016 at the Christian Life Assembly Church in Alturas. Presiding over the services was Pastor Robert Fendler. Pallbearers at her services were her grandsons, Robert Schwyhart, Dean Rouse, Richard Gover, Jimmy Lloyd, Joseph Lloyd, Jonathan Weimann, Michael Weimann and Spencer Lloyd.

Allen Clark
Allen Richard Clark was born on June 17, 1997 in Sonora, CA to William and Carol Clark. He graduated from Modoc High School in 2015. His family is saddened to inform that Allen passed away on June 30, 2016 in Alturas, CA. Services will be held Saturday, July 16 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Alturas, with fellowship and potluck to follow. Time to be announced. Allen’s obituary will follow in an upcoming publication.

Judy (Bailey) Coonse
Memorial services for Judy Marie (Bailey) Coonse will be held today, July 7 at the Cedarville LDS Church at noon. Judy passed away unexpectedly at her home in Cottonwood, CA on June 24, 2016. Beloved wife of David, mother, grandmother, friend, she will be missed by many. Judy grew up in Cedarville.
Judy’s obituary will follow at a later date.

Sports

Evie Capik program Give youths a chance to learn to play golf

Give a youth the opportunity to learn to golf during the Evie Capik Memorial Junior Golf Camp - a fun day camp in Alturas teaching a lifelong skill. The camp is a great way to teach all youths, ages five and up, how to get started playing golf this summer and learn golf etiquette.
The camp program will run Monday through Wednesday, July 25-27 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Arrowhead Golf Course, Alturas. All youths are welcome. Cost is $10 per child for the entire duration and includes a free hotdog lunch at the close of the event on Wednesday, July 27 and a t-shirt.
Participants will learn how to play golf through instruction. Arrowhead will provide golf equipment at the clubhouse, free of charge to students who don’t have access to equipment. The only cost to the students will be the $10, which includes golf balls.
This program was initiated in June 1998 through the Alturas Ladies Golf Club and continues to be supported by both Arrowhead Men’s and Women’s Golf Clubs, along with Capik family and individual donations. Once each summer, in honor of the late Evie Capik, all youths are offered this opportunity. Capik was an avid golfer who had a hole in one shot, loved playing golf at Arrowhead and working with children.
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.
Donations to support the Evie Capik Junior Golf Program may be made at Plumas Bank, 510 N. Main St., Alturas. In the check memo, please specify for Evie Capik Junior Golf Program.

MHS football players note

Modoc High football coach Dominic Budmark reminds players they will start practice August 8, 6 p.m.
Budmark takes over for coach Shaun Wood, who chose to retire. Budmark has been the junior varsity coach.
Players must have their physicals done and the sports information packets turned in by the first day of practice. Weightlifting is open from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday at the MHS weight room and packets may be picked up there.

July 14, 2016

News

Nessling case continued to August 2

The abuse of force case against Sheriff’s Deputy Dan Nessling was continued again as his attorney has decided to appeal Superior Court Judge David Mason’s earlier decision denying his motion to dismiss the charges. 
“We were on the calendar yesterday for a status conference to check whether Nessling had filed his writ,” said Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk. “He had not. His lawyer said he hadn’t had enough time. The court granted his motion for more time to August 2. I did not object. Also, it would not have made a difference. The court would have granted him more time regardless.”
Funk had anticipated an appeal would be filed.
Mason had denied a defense motion to dismiss the assault under color of authority misdemeanor charges against Nessling.
The case was complicated because of a February Modoc Grand Jury misdemeanor indictment charging Nessling with assault under color of authority, but that charge was dismissed by Judge David Mason in an earlier hearing. In that ruling, he upheld the defense’s contention that the Grand Jury did not have the authority to indict on a misdemeanor.
Funk then filed the direct complaint against Nessling with the assault charges.

Placer Title buys Modoc Title

Modoc County Title Co is pleased to announce that the Modoc County Title Co. title plant has been told to Placer Title Co. 
Placer Title Company will now be able to service Modoc County and its community with title and escrow needs.  If you have any questions Placer Title Company can be reached at 530-226-1522.  

Pit River Tribal Gathering at Medicine Lake July 14-20

The Pit River Tribe has a Special Use Permit for a group gathering from Thursday, July 14 to July 20, 2016.
The entire Medicine Campground is likely to be occupied by the tribe during this period.
Please respect the tribe’s right to this gathering.
Hemlock, A.H. Hogue and Headquarters campgrounds will remain entirely open for public use.

Sheldon area still shaking some

This week marks the second anniversary of the Sheldon Earthquake Swarm. The remote area where the earthquakes are occurring is located northeast of Cedarville about ten miles north of Vya, in the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge.
At times during the past two years hundreds of earthquakes would be registered in a single day, thousands of quakes have been recorded since July 2014. Residents in Surprise Valley from Cedarville north to Fort Bidwell have felt the Magnitude 4-plus events.
The Sheldon Swarm is the longest and most energetic earthquake sequence in Nevada's recorded history. Although the earthquakes are in the shallow range, their depths appear to be at normal seismogenic depths for the Basin and Range area.
“Activity has decreased significantly, but we still get very small events daily that we can't locate because of poor network coverage up there. We still get earthquakes larger than Magnitude two on about a weekly basis, but have not had the intense activity rates that we saw in 2014 and through early 2015. On June 1 there was a Magnitude 3.6 in the Sheldon area that was felt by residents in Vya and near the Sheldon,” said Ken Smith, Executive Director of the Reno Seismographic Lab.

Obituaries—

Allen Richard Clark
Allen Richard Clark, beloved son, brother, uncle, grandson and friend, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 30, 2016 in Alturas, California at the age of 19.
Allen was born to William and Carol Clark on June 17, 1997 in Sonora, California.
Services will be held at Sacred Heart Parish on July 16, 2016 at 10:00 a.m., with a potluck fellowship to follow in the church hall. All are welcome to attend.

Mary Preston
Services for beloved family matriarch, Mary (O’Neil) Preston will be held at the Federated Church in Alturas on Tuesday, July 19 at 1 p.m. with graveside to follow at the Alturas Cemetery. All are welcome to attend. Mrs. Preston passed July 10, 2016 in Alturas, CA. She will be greatly missed by all.
Mrs. Preston’s obituary will be published next issue.

Christine Compton
Funeral service for Christine Compton will be held Thursday, August 18, 2016, 2 p.m. at the Federated Church (307 E 1st St) in Alturas. Service is open to all friends and the community of Alturas. Potluck to follow service. For anyone wanting to donate flowers, please contact Sweet Pea Cottage, Christine’s favorite florist, for information.

Francis Marion Bunyard III
Francis Marion Bunyard III died in Sacramento, CA on June 26, 2016. He was 79 years old.
Frank was born Nov. 17, 1936 in Davis Creek, Modoc Co., CA. He was the third child of Francis Bunyard II and Leora Henderson Bunyard.
Frank will be buried in Davis Creek, CA.

Sports

Modoc Major girls eliminated by Red Bluff

A strong Red Bluff Major Girls All-Star team knocked the Modoc Girls team out of the Section Tournament last weekend in Yuba City, beating Modoc twice.
Modoc took a 1-0 lead against Red Bluff in the opening game and held that lead until the fifth when Red Bluff put up five runs. Modoc could not score again.
Lexee Larranaga got the loss for Modoc, after pitching a fine game. She struck out seven and didn’t walk a batter. She was also 3-3 at the plate and Aaleyah Munoz was 2-3.
Modoc beat North Sacramento 4-3 in the second game. Larranaga got the win with seven strikeouts and one base on balls. Alicia Chavez was 3-3 at the plate, Larranaga 2-3 and Riley Atkins 1-1.
Modoc started with a 1-0 lead against Red Bluff in the third game and held that lead through four. Red Bluff again managed five runs, aided by two errors and Modoc couldn’t answer.

Capik program gives youths a chance to learn golf

Give a youth the opportunity to learn to golf during the Evie Capik Memorial Junior Golf Camp - a fun day camp in Alturas teaching a lifelong skill. The camp is a great way to teach all youths, ages five and up, how to get started playing golf this summer and learn golf etiquette.
The camp program will run Monday through Wednesday, July 25-27 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Arrowhead Golf Course, Alturas. All youths are welcome. Cost is $10 per child for the entire duration and includes a free hotdog lunch at the close of the event on Wednesday, July 27 and a t-shirt.
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.
Donations to support the Evie Capik Junior Golf Program may be made at Plumas Bank, 510 N. Main St., Alturas. In the check memo, please specify for Evie Capik Junior Golf Program.

July 21, 2016

News

Modoc DA on new gun control measures

Modoc County District Attorney Jordan Funk weighed in on the state’s new gun control measure this week. He wasn’t impressed.
“These gun control measures will not reduce gun crime one iota. Frankly, I don’t think that was ever the intent,” Funk said. “The intent is to impose as many burdens and costs on the ownership and use of firearms by law abiding citizens as the governor can get away with in an effort to marginalize firearms ownership and to further politically marginalize the people who enjoy lawfully using guns. 
“We know as a matter of statistical fact that only about two percent of shootings involve so called ‘assault weapons’ and that is using a very generous definition of ‘assault weapon’.  Most firearm deaths involve cheap handguns, so changing the definition of ‘assault weapons’ to sweep a large category of hunting rifles into a banned category is simply a political statement, not a serious attempt to reduce gun violence.”  
He continued, “The same is true with a background check to purchase ammo.  Gang-bangers don’t use much ammo. Hobby shooters do. The burdensome new ammo regulations will therefore fall most heavily on the backs of law abiding shooters, not criminals.”

City approves JLS building out of Wall Trust

The Alturas City Council approved an application from the Alturas Rotary Club to build a 100-foot by 125-foot, by 19-feet high steel building at the Junior Livestock Grounds.
The project, which will be funded out of the John Wall Trust awarded to Rotary, calls for dismantling and removing four existing dilapidated barns which are on the Nagle Street side of the showgrounds and replacing them with the new structure.
Rotary predicts the project to be completed by the middle of October. The estimated cost is $115,000.

Strong Family has plans for Health Center

The Strong Family Health Care Center has big plans to improve its offering to the community.
The SFHC is soliciting proposals for architectural and engineering services to assist with design and permitting of proposed Youth Center and Fitness Center facilities, to be located adjacent to its existing facility on Oak Street.
According to Strong Family, the new facilities are envisioned to include the following major elements: separate structures for the Youth Center and Fitness Center is preferred; 1,000-1,500 square feet for each building; single-story structures; the Youth Center is envisioned for after-school and cultural activities for tribal youth and will include a small kitchen area; the Fitness Center is envisioned to have up to approximately 20 pieces of cardio and other exercise related equipment, ADA restrooms, locker rooms, etc.
The SFHC would like the facilities to be operational by September 1, 2017.  The construction budget for this project is $600,000.00. Architectural and engineering services have been budgeted at $100,000.
The facilities and associated infrastructure (parking, frontage improvements, landscaping, etc.) are to be designed to City of Alturas requirements.  The property is zoned commercial C-1 following an approval of a zone change for this project.

County roads to begin major chip seal projects

The Road Department will be chip sealing in the Alturas and Surprise Valley areas in the next several weeks. The schedule for these activities is as follows:
County Road 71 (Cal Pines Blvd), County Road 72 – beginning July 25.
County Road 115 – beginning the July 28.
Bowman Road – beginning the week of August 1.
Modoc Estates beginning the August 2.
County Road 1 north through Fort Bidwell – beginning August 8.
County Road 1 from near Eagleville to Cedarville – beginning August 10.
County Road 133-D New Pine Creek area – the week of August 22.
Please note that this is a tentative schedule, actual start dates may vary due to construction issues. Every effort will be made to keep traffic delays to a minimum. If you have any questions please call 530-233-6412.

Obituaries—
Marion “Mary” Ann Preston
Services for beloved family matriarch and honored elder, Marion “Mary Ann” (O’neil) Preston of Alturas were held at the Federated Church in Alturas on Tuesday, July 19, at 1 p.m. Interment service followed at the Alturas Cemetery, with fellowship at the Federated Church. The Rev. Dr. Ben Zandstra officiated.
Mrs. Preston entered into rest on July 10, 2016 in Alturas, CA, just three months following her husband Donald’s passing April 10, 2016. Mary was 79.
Born on April 25, 1937 in Adin, CA, Mary was the daughter of Clarence O’neil and Lilly George.

Olive Louise Roufs Chandler
Louise Roufs Chandler passed away July 16, 2016 at her daughter Marabelle Walker’s home in North San Juan, California. 
Louise was born in Merrill, Oregon December 23, 1917 and would have been 99 years old on her next birthday.  Louise’s parents J. Luther Haskins and Nellie Haskins were some of the first farmers in the Tulelake Basin to ever raise potatoes.
Graveside services will be held at the Adin Cemetery Friday July 22, 2016 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Ryan Harper officiating and a reception at the Adin Community Church Hall afterwards.
If anyone so wishes, donations may be made to the Church Fund at the Fort Crook Museum, P.O. Box 397, Fall River Mills, CA 96028.  Louise was so interested in this project where the purchase of the abandoned church for the museum complex would make 13 buildings at the Fort Crook Museum.

Gerald Azevedo
Gerald Azevedo passed away on July 18, 2016 in Alturas, CA.
Gerald was born on July 5, 1948. Services are pending. His obituary will follow in future publication.

Sports

National acts grace Modoc Fair

The Modoc District Fair is one month away and some top-notch entertainment has been lined up for August 18 – 21. This year’s countywide celebration is hosted by the Modoc Heritage Foundation and offers a variety for all thanks to numerous sponsors and donors.
From an old fashioned Midway to Rancher’s Day, the fairgrounds will be graced by a wide assortment of attractions.
On Sunday, August 21 the Riata Ranch Cowboy Girls will perform during the Modoc Heritage Junior Rodeo. The Riata Ranch Cowboy Girls are a world-renowned Western performance group who has traveled over twenty countries throughout five continents. The group will be presenting their talents, which include trick riding and roping that have taken them from the rodeo arena to the professional arenas including performing in England at Windsor Castle for the Diamond Jubilee Pageant to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s sixty-year anniversary.
The Junior Rodeo kicks off at 12 p.m. in the main arena.

Soccer tryouts August 8

Modoc High soccer coach Jason Smith is having tryouts for the high school team starting August 8th, at 6:30 at the high school soccer field.
Players must have their physicals done and the sports information packets turned in on the 1st day of tryouts.  They are starting to have open field practices for anyone interested on Monday's and Thursday's from 6:30-8:00 at the soccer field.  Also on Tuesday's at the pool from 7:30-8:30.

MHS football starts Aug. 8

New Modoc High football will start practice August 8, 6 p.m.
Budmark takes over for coach Shaun Wood, who chose to retire. Budmark has been the junior varsity coach.
Players must have their physicals done and the sports information packets turned in by the first day of practice. Weightlifting is open from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday at the MHS weight room and packets may be picked up there.

July 28, 2016

News

Alturas Post Office landscaping subject of local ire

The destruction of landscaping at the Alturas Post Office, and overall condition of the facility, was the subject on the agenda of the Modoc County Board of Supervisors Tuesday.
The landscape destruction was overseen and done by the local Postmaster.
Chairperson Kathie Rhoads said she was working with Alturas Mayor John Dederick to address the issue. She said that when the new Alturas Post office was proposed, the City required that it be a structure that enhanced the downtown area. One of the requirements in the planning process for the facility included a landscaping element.
Rhoads was the City of Alturas Treasurer when the facility was proposed and built. The actual landscaping plants were selected by then Planning Director Scott Kessler through Maxwell’s Nursery.
According to David Rupert, Corporate Communications for the USPS in Denver: “We have recently released a call for bids and have named a successful contractor to improve and maintain our grounds. Our Procurement and Contracting division is currently in the process of completing the final contract award and work will commence shortly thereafter.”

Modoc jobless rate ticks up

The Modoc County unemployment rate ticked up from May’s 6.7 percent to 7.2 percent in June, according to the California Employment Development Department.
In June 2015 the jobless rate stood at 7.6 percent with 3,190 employed and 260 unemployed. In June 2016 the civilian labor force number 3,410 with 3,170 employed and 250 unemployed. Those numbers compare to May 2016 when the labor force was at 3,250 with 3,030 employed and 220 unemployed.
Total government employment went up from 1,230 in May to 1,310 in June, and improvement of 80 jobs. Federal employment went up from May’s 240 to 280 in June and local government went from May’s 920 to 960. The June 2016 government employment level is exactly the same at 1,310 as it was in June 2015.
Total nonfarm employment went up from May’s 2,310 to June’s 2,410.
Modoc’s 7.2 percent jobless rate ranks it 37th out of the state’s 58 counties for highest unemployment. Lassen County ranks 33rd at 6.7 percent and Siskiyou ranks 42nd at 7.5 percent. Imperial County has the highest unemployment rate at 23.7 percent and San Mateo the lowest at 3.3 percent.

Nessling abuse hearing set for August 2

The abuse of force case against Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Dan Nessling is set for August 2, 1:30 p.m. in Modoc Superior Court.
Nessling’s attorney informed the courts that they decided to appeal Superior Court Judge David Mason’s earlier decision denying his motion to dismiss the charges. 
This will be the second chance for a writ to be filed, said Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk. The court granted Nessling attorney’s motion two weeks ago for more time to August 2. 
Funk had anticipated an appeal would be filed.

County roads to begin major chip seal projects

The Road Department will be chip sealing in the Alturas and Surprise Valley areas in the next several weeks. The schedule for these activities is as follows:
County Road 71 (Cal Pines Blvd), County Road 72 – beginning July 25.
County Road 115 – beginning the July 28.
Bowman Road – beginning the week of August 1.
Modoc Estates beginning the August 2.
County Road 1 north through Fort Bidwell – beginning August 8.
County Road 1 from near Eagleville to Cedarville – beginning August 10.
County Road 133-D New Pine Creek area – the week of August 22.
Please note that this is a tentative schedule, actual start dates may vary due to construction issues. Every effort will be made to keep traffic delays to a minimum. If you have any questions please call 530-233-6412.

Obituaries—

Gerald “Jerry” Azevedo
Services for Gerald “Jerry” Azevedo of Alturas will be held Sunday, July 31, 2016 at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Hall, So. Main St., Alturas. Potluck at the same location, will follow the service.
Mr. Azevedo died unexpectedly on July 18, 2016 in Alturas, CA. He was 68.
He was born in Ventura, CA on July 5, 1948 and was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving as a Private First Class/ E3 in the U.S. Army, until his discharge April 3, 1970.
Interment will be at the Northern California Veterans Cemetery in Igo, CA. Donations will be accepted at his Alturas service for those who wish.

Larry Edward Dolan

Larry Dolan of Renton, WA, passed away Monday, July 18, 2016 at his home in Renton.
Larry was born in Alturas, CA on March 21, 1943 to Earlene and Bill Dolan.
Graveside Services will be held Saturday, July 30, 2016, 1:00 p.m. at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Renton, WA. There will be a gathering in Renton at Larry’s home following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Larry’s name to your favorite cancer charity.

Sports

Register for 7th Annual Rotary Golf Tournament

The 7th Annual Alturas Rotary Golf Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, August 13, at Arrowhead Golf Course in Alturas.
The cost is $75 per golfer which includes a barbecued ribs and tri-tip lunch.
Format for the tournament will be Four-Person Scramble (handicapped). The day promises to be full of fun for all, with much sought-after prizes including $10,000 for a hole-in-one. Cash prizes for teams range from $100 to $500 and additional prizes will be awarded for successful shots.
Shine up your clubs for this special tournament and be ready to go. In addition to an enjoyable day with family and friends, proceeds will go to community projects and providing support to the Modoc District Fair.
For more information contact Rotarians Matt Cruse at 530-519-5602 or Mike Mason 530-640-1316 or 530-233-3499. 

Beat the heat at the Pool

Cool off at the Alturas Municipal Pool open at the corner of Warner and West Fourth Streets, Alturas.
Pool hours: Lap Swim, Monday-Saturday 12 - 1 p.m. and Monday - Friday 6:45 - 7:30 p.m.; Recreational Swim Monday - Friday 1 - 4 p.m. and Saturday 1-5 p.m.
General Admission $3, Sr. Citizens $2. Season Pass Individual $75; Family Pass $100 (up to 5 family members in a single household). Additional family members may be added at a cost of $10 each.
Morning and evening sessions of swim lessons, with one and two week sessions are available throughout the summer at the Alturas Pool. Cost of lessons is $25 for one week and $50 for two-week sessions. Aquacise began meeting on July 20, from 6 - 6:45 p.m. Monday - Thursday. Class cost, $50.
The pool is also available for private rentals at a cost of $62.50 per hour. Large parties requiring more than one lifeguard will be charged an additional $12 per hour, per lifeguard. Call for information on days and times available for rental. For more information call the Pool staff at 233-4299. The pool is operated by the City of Alturas at the corner of Warner and West Fourth Street, Alturas.

Soccer tryout August 8

Modoc High soccer coach Jason Smith is having tryouts for the high school team starting August 8th, at 6:30 at the high school soccer field.
Players must have their physicals done and the sports information packets turned in on the 1st day of tryouts.  They are starting to have open field practices for anyone interested on Monday's and Thursday's from 6:30-8:00 at the soccer field.  Also on Tuesday's at the pool from 7:30-8:30.

MHS football starts Aug. 8

Modoc High football will start practice August 8, 6 p.m.
Players must have their physicals done and the sports information packets turned in by the first day of practice. Weightlifting is open from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Thursday at the MHS weight room and packets may be picked up there.

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August 4, 2016

News

Nessling case goes to appeals court

On Tuesday, a Stay was granted to the defense in Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Dan Nessling use of force case. The case will now go to a three-judge panel for a ruling.
The question before the Appeals Panel is whether Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk’s direct filing of a misdemeanor case will stand. Funk expected the case to go to appeal, but stresses confidence in his position.
In essence, the defense is arguing that once a Grand Jury indictment was dismissed because the Grand Jury lacked authority in a misdemeanor case, Funk could not file the direct indictment.
The Modoc Superior Court appeals panel consists of three judges: one from Lassen County, one from Sierra County and one from Plumas County. Their decision will probably take several weeks.
The case was complicated because of that February Modoc Grand Jury misdemeanor indictment charging Nessling with assault under color of authority. That charge was dismissed by Judge David Mason. In that ruling, he upheld the defense’s contention that the Grand Jury did not have the authority to indict on a misdemeanor.
Funk then filed the direct misdemeanor complaint against Nessling the same day. In a subsequent hearing, Mason denied a defense motion to dismiss the charges. Nessling’s attorney informed the courts they decided to appeal that decision.

Dry and hot for summer here

Modoc County is now considered in a moderate drought by the National Weather Service, improving dramatically from the exceptional and extreme drought conditions that existed last year.
The drought levels go from no drought to abnormally dry, moderate, severe extreme and the top is exceptional.
Local public land agencies are paying close attention to the dry and hit weather with the agencies moving into extreme fire conditions and putting in fire safety restrictions.
July turned out to be very hot and dry. Only .05 inches of precipitation was measured, not even coming up to the monthly average of .34 inches. In addition the average high temperature for the month was 88.4 degrees. There were 14 days above 90 degrees and two days above 100 degrees. July also offered a 31 degree low on July 11.
August is starting out dry with no precipitation recorded yet, although a sight chance of showers is in the forecast for Friday. The monthly average is only .36 inches of precipitation.

County roads to begin major chip seal projects

The Road Department will be chip sealing in the Alturas and Surprise Valley areas in the next several weeks. The schedule for these activities is as follows:
Bowman Road – beginning the week of August 1.
Modoc Estates beginning the August 2.
County Road 1 north through Fort Bidwell – beginning August 8.
County Road 1 from near Eagleville to Cedarville – beginning August 10.
County Road 133-D New Pine Creek area – the week of August 22.
Please note that this is a tentative schedule, actual start dates may vary due to construction issues. Every effort will be made to keep traffic delays to a minimum. If you have any questions please call 530-233-6412.

Fire Restrictions start Aug. 5 on BLM-Managed public lands

Seasonal restrictions on the outdoor use of fire and firewood cutting begin Friday, Aug. 5, 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 Eagle Lake and Applegate field offices and the Surprise Field Station in Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Sierra, Shasta, Siskiyou and Washoe counties. Chainsaw use will be allowed only until 1 p.m. daily.
 Under the restrictions:
 •  Open fires are not allowed outside of posted, developed campgrounds and recreation sites, even with a campfire permit.  Portable stoves and lanterns using gas, pressurized liquid fuel or jellied petroleum may be used outside of developed campgrounds and recreation areas.  Campfire permits are required.  Permits are available at BLM, Forest Service and Cal Fire offices.
•  Smoking is not allowed except within enclosed vehicles or buildings.
•  Motor vehicles must remain on established roads and trails. Internal combustion engines may not be used off of established roads and trails with the exception of chainsaws used in accordance with wood cutting permits, and only until 1 p.m. daily.
•  Target shooters may not use tracer, metal jacket, incendiary or exploding ammunition, or targets that explode or emit sparks.
•  Possession or use of any fireworks is not allowed.
 Fire officials urge woodcutters to cut firewood early in the day, to be sure that chainsaws have spark arresters and to have shovels and fire extinguishers handy.

Obituaries—

Rosemarie Wilson
Rosemarie Wilson of Likely, CA passed away in Redding, CA on July 30, 2016. The family will be having a traditional Pit River Wake starting at 6 p.m. Friday, August 5 at the Likely Fire Hall. Graveside services will be held Saturday, August 6 at 10 a.m. at the Likely Indian Cemetery, end of County Road 65, Likely. A luncheon of Indian Tacos will be served at the Likely Fire Hall, following the graveside service. If further information is needed, please contact Yogi McGarva, 530-708-0361.
Mrs. Wilson’s obituary will follow in a future issue.

Christine Compton
Funeral service for Christine Compton will be held Thursday, August 18, 2016, 2 p.m. at the Federated Church (307 E 1st St) in Alturas. Service is open to all friends and the community of Alturas. Potluck to follow service. For anyone wanting to donate flowers, please contact Sweet Pea Cottage, Christine's favorite florist, for information. 

Sports

Modoc sports start next week

Summer is coming to an end and most Modoc High School athletes will start practice Monday, with others starting a little later. Athletes must have their physicals and their sports information packets turned in before they can participate.
Modoc High football will start practice August 8, 6 p.m. New varsity head coach is Dominic Budmark.
The football team will scrimmage with Burney here August 19, beginning at 5:30 p.m. There will be no parking on the track for the scrimmage. The first game will have Yreka coming to Modoc August 26 with the Junior Varsity starting at 5:30 p.m. The Shasta Cascade League this year consists of Modoc, Etna, Fall River, U-Prep and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc High soccer will have tryouts for starting August 8, at 6:30 at the high school soccer field.
Soccer opens the season Sept. 1 with a scrimmage against Chester and play in the Redding Christian Tournament Sept. 2-3. Jason Smith is in his second year as soccer coach.
Teams involved in SCL Soccer are: Modoc, Surprise Valley, Butte Valley, Etna, Weed, Trinity, Fall River, Tulelake and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc Volleyball starts practice this month and varsity opens play at the Durham tournament August 27. SCL teams are: Modoc, Weed, Fall River, Trinity, Etna and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc Cross Country under coach Luke Hughes is starting practice as well and will open at the Lagoon Valley Classic in Vacaville, Sept. 3.

MHS, MMS Cross Country starts

The summer is coming to a close and Modoc Cross Country season is near.
Anyone planning on competing this season must get a sports physical. All of the paperwork can be picked up at the Modoc Joint Unified School District office on Fourth Street.
The first practice for Modoc High Cross Country will be Monday, August 15 at 8:00 a.m. at the MHS track. The first practice for Modoc Middle School Cross Country will be Monday, August 29 at 3:15 p.m, -- meet at the tennis courts. Any questions about the program can be directed to Coach Luke Hughes at 530-708-2027.

August 11, 2016

News

Devil’s Garden wild horses to be up for adoption

The Modoc National Forest is proud to manage the Devil’s Garden Plateau Wild Horse herd. These wild horses are a unique resource for the American People. The U.S. Forest Service is seeking homes for up to 200 horses.
“We view the wild horse herd as an asset to the forest and the community,” Forest Supervisor Amanda McAdams said during a recent presentation to the Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board in Redmond, Oregon. “A wild horse herd managed in thriving ecological balance contributes significantly to what the Modoc has to offer, drawing tourists to the area and giving the American people one more reason to connect with their national forest.”
For more information on how to adopt one of these unique animals, please contact Public Affairs Officer Ken Sandusky at modoc_info@fs.fed.us.

County to redefine Land Use Committee

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors took the steps to create the “Natural Resources Coordination Advisory Committee “Land Use Committee:” at Tuesday’s meeting.
County Counsel Margaret Long presented the proposal which makes several changes to the existing Land Use Committee Structure and made the new committee a “standing committee of the Supervisors in an advisory capacity.
Some of the initial changes will be reducing the committee to a nine-member body and as a standing committee making it a Brown Act compliant.
Long said a big change was taking the former Land Use committee out of the county code and establishing it as the Board’s standing Committee. There were issues in the recent past where the Land Use Committee could not come to terms with the Board and actually created a major political issue. The next committee will not be an independent body and will not have the potential to take action on items, it will be advisory to the Board of Supervisors.

Lava Beds invites the public to the Fifth Astronomy Day

Superintendent Larry Whalon of Lava Beds National Monument invites the public to participate in the fourth Astronomy Day and Star Party Event on Saturday, August 20 from 12 noon to midnight.
Throughout the day, visitors of all ages can participate in a special Night Sky Junior Ranger Program. From 12:00 pm to 4:00 p.m., astronomers will set up several sun-safe telescopes for viewing and learning about our closest star, the sun. Visitors will have the opportunity to fashion a solar bracelet, create their own constellation projector, learn how far apart the planets are and explore a lava tube with astronaut-rangers.
There is no cost for the event; however the standard park entrance fee of $15 per vehicle is applicable. Indian Well campground, conveniently located adjacent to the visitor center, will be open. 
For directions and further information, please call Lava Beds National Monument at 530-667-8113, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. or visit the website at www.nps.gov/labe.

County celebrates 96th annual Fair, Aug. 18-21

Celebrate a Modoc tradition of fun, food, festivities and agriculture at the Modoc District Fair August 18-21 with free daily admission. The Fair officially opens next Thursday, August 18 kicking off with the Junior Horse Show at 8 a.m. Youth will compete for top prize in gymkhana and saddle mount classes.
During the day exhibit buildings will be bustling as exhibitor’s check-in arts, crafts, vegetables, flowers and special displays. By mid-afternoon the Midway will come together as vendors set up shop for the Fair offering up fair cuisine, cold drinks and sweet treats.

Obituaries—

Johnnie K. Looper

Life here on earth ended August 9, 2016 for Johnnie Kate Looper of Alturas. Our Mom, Granny, Grams and friend was tired, so our Lord called her home.
Johnnie entered this world on September 12, 1927 as Johnnie Kate Officer  in Monterey, Tennessee.
Instead of flowers, we are asking you to perform an act of kindness for a nurse. Johnnie’s family would like to thank Dr. Richert, Dr. Jenkins, the staff at Warnerview, friends and all others who have been a part of Johnnie’s life.
Services will be held at the Alturas Baptist Church on August 15, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Val Farber officiating; burial to follow at Alturas Cemetery.  A potluck reception will follow at the Alturas Baptist Church, 500 W. 4th St., Alturas, California.

James “Jim” C. Hetherwick

James C. “Jim” Hetherwick was born August 5, 1923 and passed away April 6, 2016 in Chico with family present.
Jim grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana and attended Texas A&M before enlisting in the Navy in 1942.
Jim was a very humorous, friendly person, well liked by all and will be missed by many. Family services will be held in Chico and graveside services will be held in Alturas at a later date.

Robert Lewis Tanner

Robert Lewis Tanner, age 74, passed away quietly at his Alturas, CA home on August 3, 2016, with his wife Karin and daughter Jennifer, at his side.
Bob was born on March 17, 1942 in Rigby, Idaho. He was the son of Lewis and Vivian Tanner.
Bob requested to be cremated. No funeral services are planned.

Sandra Jones Byrd Mortimer

Sandra Lee Jones Byrd Mortimer of Alturas, passed away the morning of August 7, 2016. Wife of Dennis Mortimer, she was the mother of three children. Sandra was born April 27, 1954. Donations toward her final arrangements may be made to the Sandra Jones Byrd Family Fund at GoFundMe. Her obituary will be published soon.

Thelma Margareta Lagerberg Jorgensen

Thelma Margareta Lagerberg Jorgensen was born the hottest day of 1923, July 28, in Willows, California to Swedish immigrants Peter and Elin Lagerberg and older brother Robert.  She passed full of love, surrounded by her family in the early morning cool of August 1, 2016, just 4 days after her 93rd birthday.
At Chico State, she lettered in five sports and for her athletic accomplishments, she was inducted into the Chico State Athletic Hall of Fame in 1991.  Following graduation in 1945, Thelma taught high school physical education for five years, two at Modoc High School. 
A memorial gathering will be held at the Jorgensen Home in Kenwood Friday, August 19, 2016 at 2 pm.  In lieu of flowers, Thelma’s memory may be honored by contributions to any organization that supports children, education or athletics. 

Christine Compton

Funeral service for Christine Compton will be held Thursday, August 18, 2016, 2 p.m. at the Federated Church (307 E 1st St) in Alturas. Service is open to all friends and the community of Alturas. Potluck to follow service.

Sports

Modoc sports in full swing

Some Modoc High School athletes started practice Monday, with others starting next week. Athletes must have their physicals and their sports information packets turned in before they can participate.
Modoc High football started practice August 8 under new varsity head coach Dominic Budmark.
The football team will scrimmage with Burney here August 19, beginning at 5:30 p.m. There will be no parking on the track for the scrimmage. The first game will have Yreka coming to Modoc August 26 with the Junior Varsity starting at 5:30 p.m. The Shasta Cascade League this year consists of Modoc, Etna, Fall River, U-Prep and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc High soccer had tryouts August 8, at 6:30 at the high school soccer field.
Soccer opens the season Sept. 1 with a scrimmage against Chester and they play in the Redding Christian Tournament Sept. 2-3. Jason Smith is in his second year as soccer coach.
Teams involved in SCL Soccer are: Modoc, Surprise Valley, Butte Valley, Etna, Weed, Trinity, Fall River, Tulelake and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc Volleyball starts practice Monday and varsity opens play at the Durham tournament August 27. SCL teams are: Modoc, Weed, Fall River, Trinity, Etna and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc Cross Country under coach Luke Hughes is starting practice as well and will open at the Lagoon Valley Classic in Vacaville, Sept. 3.

Volleyball starts August 15

New Modoc High School Varsity Volleyball coach Kim Schmidt said that volleyball will start August15 at 3:30 p.m. for varsity. Junior varsity practice will start the August 22 at 3:30 p.m. 
Athletes need to have their physicals in by the day of practice or can turn them in at the main office before practice begins. The team opens in Durham on the August 27.

August 18, 2016

News

Big Valley ambulance spawns bigger idea

What started out as a fairly simple idea of bringing an advanced life support ambulance back to the Big Valley area may turn into something that goes farther and much bigger and better than expected.
It could also encompass much of the northeast corner of the state.
Negotiations are currently underway between the Big Valley Southern Cascades Community Service District, the Sierra Emergency Medical Services Alliance (SEMSA), Mayers Memorial Hospital, Modoc Medical Center and the Burney Fire Protection District, to provide emergency medical service along the State Route 299 corridor between Burney and Alturas.
According to Clinton Davis, the President of the Southern Cascade Community Service District, those negotiations are going very well and may be coming to fruition in the not too distant future.
The District was approved by voters in Big Valley in an election May 3. A new Board of Directors for the District includes John Gordon, Earle Campbell, Davis, Robert Fisher, Jean Ludwigsen and Kathy Peterson, who were recently seated.
SEMSA is a non-profit company that operates the ambulance service in Lassen County, owns RIGGS Ambulance Service in Merced County and manages the West Side Community Health Care District in Stanislaus County.  It also provides ancilliary services in support of other ambulance services throughout Central California.
The proposal under negotiation would create a new coalition between the above entities with the emergency medical portion managed by SEMSA with preferred provider status. SEMSA currently runs a large EMS business covering about two-thirds of Lassen County, including Susanville and has recently taken over an ambulance service in Merced County. It includes both air and ground ambulance service.

Fair opens run with new looks

It’s official: the 96th annual Modoc District Fair has begun and will run throughout the weekend, crowned by Sunday’s parade and Junior Rodeo.
Honored this year, as the parade grand marshals are the “Calendar Guys – Gentlemen Of A Certain Age.” The gentlemen featured in the calendar are Edward “Ed” Berryessa, Frank Arreche, Dale Goodwin, John Keller, Clevon Dixon, Ralph DeGarmo, Harold Harris, Joseph “Joe” Harris, William “Bill” Heryford, Robert “Bob” Cockrell, James “Jim” Cockrell, Doug Bucher, Don Rosendahl, Robert “Bob” Staton and Dale Steward. 
These colorful characters are all larger than life to those who have the pleasure of knowing them and the stories featured in the Surprise Valley Education Foundation’s calendar are sure to share their rich histories. The calendar is expected for release this fall, with the proceeds benefiting children of Surprise Valley.
Admission is free for the entire fair run and everyday offers a wide variety of family fun. The Midway is packed with entertainment for all ages and the Modoc Heritage Foundation has made sure that all events are either completely free or low-cost.

Modoc at High fire danger level

The Modoc National Forest is at “High” fire danger as of Wednesday.
“We have gone to ‘very high” one time this season, have not yet reached ‘extreme, at all,” said Ken Sandusky, Public Information Officer. “Though fire-safety restrictions are in place, limiting campfires to designated campgrounds with Forest Service provided fire rings.”
There are some fire units operating off forest on other fires.
“While we are in our ‘Lightning Plan’ for dispatch, we have no active fires on the forest at this time” he said. “That could change if we see the predicted lightning later this week.”
The MNF has responded to a total of 11 small fires since July 25, of which the biggest was the Barnes at 0.2 acres.
“We have responded to three abandoned campfires,” Sandusky said.

School Boards may be appointed

The races for school trustees in Modoc County were set as of Wednesday at 5 p.m. The closing date for incumbents to file was August 12, and if they did not, the date was extended to August 17.
The Modoc Joint Unified School District had three seats open, those of Alan Hopkins, Fernand Larranaga, and Don Mason. All three have filed for re-election and no challengers filed.
In the Surprise Valley Joint Unified School District, Mike Ray has filed for re-election in the Cedarville area, while Bill Bostic and Ruth Still chose to retire. In the Eagleville Trustee Area, Kay K. Antunez de Mayolo filed, and for the Lake City Trustee Area, Elisa Robertson has filed.
Both incumbents have filed for the County Office of Education: Trustee Area One, James M. Harris and Trustee Area Four, Charles "Jim" Hays.
In the Tulelake Basin Joint Unified School District Trustee Area One, Incumbent Paulette Velador filed; Trustee Area Four,: Karli Stoller-Hall has filed, and in Trustee Area Five Jordan Dodson has filed.
“From the looks of things everyone will be appointed in lieu of election,” said Modoc County Clerk Stephanie Wellemeyer.

Obituaries—

Christine Compton
Funeral service for Christine Compton will be held Thursday, August 18, 2016, 2 p.m. at the Federated Church (307 E 1st St) in Alturas. Service is open to all friends and the community of Alturas. Potluck to follow service.

Sports

Modoc sports in full swing

Modoc High football started practice August 8 under new varsity head coach Dominic Budmark.
The football team will scrimmage with Burney here August 19, beginning at 5:30 p.m. There will be no parking on the track for the scrimmage. The first game will have Yreka coming to Modoc August 26 with the Junior Varsity starting at 5:30 p.m. The Shasta Cascade League this year consists of Modoc, Etna, Fall River, U-Prep and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc High soccer had tryouts August 8, at 6:30 at the high school soccer field.
Soccer opens the season Sept. 1 with a scrimmage against Chester and they play in the Redding Christian Tournament Sept. 2-3. Jason Smith is in his second year as soccer coach.
Teams involved in SCL Soccer are: Modoc, Surprise Valley, Butte Valley, Etna, Weed, Trinity, Fall River, Tulelake and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc Volleyball varsity opens play at the Durham tournament August 27. SCL teams are: Modoc, Weed, Fall River, Trinity, Etna and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc Cross Country under coach Luke Hughes is starting practice as well and will open at the Lagoon Valley Classic in Vacaville, Sept. 3.

Archery deer season open

The Archery Deer hunting season opens in Northeast California X zones August 16 and runs through Sept. 11.
The number of archery deer tags issued in the local zones are as follows: X-1, 100; X-2, 10; X3a, 40; X3b, 70; X-4, 120; X-5a, 10; and X-5b, five.
The general deer season for the X zones starts Oct. 1 and goes to Oct. 16. The tags quotas for each zone is as follows: X-1, 760; X-2, 175; X-3a, 355; X-3b, 795; X-4, 460; X-5a, 75; X-5b, 50.

August 25, 2016

News

Some public viewing of wild horse gather operations possible

The Modoc National Forest will conduct a wild horse gather from private and tribal lands between Sept. 6 and 16, 2016. Dates of actual gather activities have yet to be determined due to conditions and contractor needs.
Public viewing opportunities at the trap site will be available on a first-come-first-served basis for up to 14 people each day. Anyone wishing to view these operations must arrive an hour and a half prior to gather activities at Forest Headquarters, 225 W. 8th St. Alturas CA., follow Forest personnel to the trap site and remain at the viewing location until operations are completed for the day.
Viewers should bring plenty of water, lunch, stout footwear and their own chair. There will be an approximate one-mile hike over rocky terrain from the parking area to each of the trap sites. The weather is expected to be hot and dry, and there is little shade available.
Viewers will be asked to remain in a blind in order to avoid disrupting gather activities. Safety of visitors, gather personnel and the horses is top priority. The use of drones in the area will not be allowed due to safety concerns.
Public viewing will also be available at the temporary holding facility at Willow Creek Ranch, during the hours of 3-5 p.m. on days gather activities occur. Operations may not occur every day, but as contractors determine.
Anyone interested in viewing gather operations should contact Public Affairs Officer Ken Sandusky at 530-233-5811.

County balks at convening collaborative

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors On Tuesday balked at a Modoc National Forest request for the County to be the convener of a formal collaborative to aid in the management of wild horses.
The Board was skeptical as to whether the collaborative was needed and whether it would be helpful. They didn’t outright shut down the idea, but wanted more time to consider the issue.
The MNF believes a collaborative is needed to provide a broader base of support for management of wild horses on the Forest.
“This is a politically sensitive issue and it is thought that recommendations from a Collaborative made up of a broad spectrum of citizens would help with obtaining the funding and the political support necessary to implement the new Territory Plan,” the agenda entry read.
The Board stated the MNF has an approved management plan for the horses, which was adopted with County input, and it felt the plan was workable.
The Record will have more on the issue next week.
Fair survived with lots of help, hard work

Modoc jobless rate sneaks up

The July 2016 unemployment rate for Modoc increased from June’s 7.2 percent to 7.3 percent, according to the state’s Employment Development Department.
According to EDD, the civilian labor force numbered 3,440 with 3,190 employed and 250 unemployed. That compares to June when the labor force was at 3,410 with 3,170 employed and 250 unemployed. In July 2015, the labor force was 3,430 with 3,150 employed and 280 unemployed and the jobless rate was 8.1 percent.

Fair survived with lots of help, hard work

The Modoc District Fair was deemed a success; it came and went last weekend without a hitch. The insurmountable task was thought to be impossible by many, but despite some hurdles the Modoc Heritage Foundation can now proudly say that the 96th annual celebration was a victory.
The support countywide and outpouring by community members from beginning to end was astonishing, showing to those working behind the scenes, that the efforts to keep the fairgrounds viable was not in vain.
Heritage Foundation President Steve Brown emotionally stated Tuesday, “The Foundation and Fair Board did one heck of a job. I’m proud to work with them.”
The Modoc Heritage Foundation’s Board of Directors includes Steve Brown – President, JoAnn White – Vice President, Regina Pratt – Treasurer, Melinda Stephan – Secretary, Sherrin Benner, Lisa Benner, Bonnie Erquiaga, Nicole Hinton and Amie Martinez along with numerous members. In order to keep the Fair viable, each director and all the members pitched in where their skill set was needed.
Last October, the Fair was faced with the reality of possible closure. It was at that point the Heritage Foundation stepped in to assure the community there would be a Fair.
In a collaborative effort, the Heritage Foundation worked with the Modoc District Fair Board of Directors – Tiffany Martinez, Diana Milton, Brian Cain, Josh Stephan, Lilli Sommer, Janice Lauppe and Linda Newman, ensuring that the Fairgrounds could sustain itself.
To learn more about joining the effort to help out the Modoc District Fairgrounds visit www.modocheritagefoundation.org or call the Fair office at 530-279-2315.

Obituaries—

Evelyn L. Williamson
Evelyn Duty Williamson was born in Lula, Oklahoma on October 16, 1935 and passed away Saturday, August 20, 2016 at Sky Lakes Medical Center in Klamath Falls, Oregon. 
Evelyn Duty was born to  James (Bus) and Bonnie Duty, joining her older  brother Morris Lee (Toby). Shortly after Evelyn was born, her  parents and their small family traveled to California during the Great Depression, in search of a  better life.
Services will be held Saturday August 27, 2016 at 11 a.m. at New Life Christian Center, 1040 N. Main St., in Alturas with graveside committal to follow at the Alturas Cemetery. Following the services, a potluck gathering to celebrate Evelyn’s life will be held at the home of Jimmy and Michelle Lloyd on Spicer Lane. 
Donations in Evelyn’s memory can be made to the Modoc Co. 4H office, Friends of the Library or any charity of choice. 

Kelsey M. Hicks
Kelsey Marie Hicks was born March 23, 1984 in Cedarville CA.  She passed away peacefully at home on August 19, 2016 of unknown natural causes. Kelsey attended Surprise Valley schools until fifth grade when the family relocated to Twisp, WA.  Kelsey attended Methow Valley Jr./Sr. High School until her graduation in 2002. 
A memorial service for Kelsey will be held in Bend, OR August 27, with interment in the family plot in Lakeview, OR at a later date.  Family asks that donations be made for Corbin Minear. The fund location will be announced later.

Sports

Modoc sports open

Modoc football will have Yreka coming to Modoc August 26 with the Junior Varsity starting at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow.
 The Shasta Cascade League this year consists of Modoc, Etna, Fall River, U-Prep and Mt. Shasta.
Soccer opens the season Sept. 1 with a scrimmage against Chester and they play in the Redding Christian Tournament Sept. 2-3. Jason Smith is in his second year as soccer coach.
Teams involved in SCL Soccer are: Modoc, Surprise Valley, Butte Valley, Etna, Weed, Trinity, Fall River, Tulelake and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc Volleyball varsity opens play at the Durham tournament August 27 under new coach Kim Schmidt. SCL teams are: Modoc, Weed, Fall River, Trinity, Etna and Mt. Shasta.
Modoc Cross Country under coach Luke Hughes will open at the Lagoon Valley Classic in Vacaville, Sept. 3.

Modoc football opens at home against Yreka

Modoc High School’s football season starts with the Yreka Miners invading Carver Stadium Friday, with the junior varsity starting at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow.
Yreka is a larger school, but the Braves have played them on a regular basis. The Braves will be lead by new head coach Dominic Budmark, who coached the junior varsity last year. Tim MacDonnell, Joe Moreo and Jesse Harer assisting.
Modoc scrimmaged Burney herd last Friday and Budmark was generally pleased with his crew’s performance. “Overall, we’re headed in the right direction,” he said Monday. “We started a little slow, made a few mistakes, but improved. The defense didn’t give up anything.”
The team has just 18 players out for the varsity this year, and Budmark said a couple more players could be joining once school starts. He has 10 juniors, seven seniors and one sophomore on the team. He is pleased with the group he has and sees plenty of potential. His junior varsity team last year went 9-1 overall and was unbeaten in the Shasta Cascade League.
Modoc will be playing some pretty tough teams outside of the SCL, but Budmark feels that will be a benefit for the post season.
This year the SCL consists of just Modoc, Fall River, Etna, Mt. Shasta and U-Prep out of Redding. Gone are Weed and Burney from last season. Non-league contests include Yreka, Quincy, Lost River, Trinity and Lakeview.
Budmark figures Fall River, Etna and Mt. Shasta will be tough and U-Prep is a first year team in the SCL.

Modoc JVs have good scrimmage

New Modoc junior varsity football coach Ted Lewis said he was “pleasantly surprised” with the team’s performance in the Burney scrimmage last Friday and is looking forward this Friday night’s Yreka game.
Lewis has a full roster with 24 players on the team and feels he has good talent. Last year’s JV team won the Shasta Cascade League at 5-0 and was 9-1 overall and a lot of those players moved up to varsity for this year.
“We’ll be able to give Yreka a pretty good game,” Lewis said. “We are fairly big and have four running backs who will do well.”

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September 1, 2016

News

Modoc County Students Show Overall Growth

Early analysis of the results from the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) shows growth across Modoc County.

Labor Day gas prices lower than years past

Drivers coming through Modoc this year can expect lower gas prices, reflecting a trend across the nation. Modoc still remains higher than California or surrounding areas, but lower than many past years.

MJUSD enrollment ticks up slightly

Enrollment in the Modoc Joint Unified School District at the start of the year is up slightly this year to 843 students from last year’s 832.

Wild horse gather may impact Modoc forest users

The Modoc National Forest will conduct a wild horse gather from private and tribal lands between Sept. 6 and 23, 2016. Specific dates of gather activities have yet to be determined due to conditions and contractor scheduling needs.

Deaths—

Connie R. Dollarhide died August 22.
Rosemarie Wilson died July 30, 2016

Sports

Modoc falls to Yreka, heads to Quincy

Modoc’s varsity football team fell to the Yreka Miners 27-6 here Friday night and will now take its talents to Quincy against a team from a similar size school.
Modoc’s junior varsity lost 32-0 in the preliminary Friday night, trailing 18-0 at halftime.

Modoc netters fall in Durham

Modoc’s varsity volleyball team ran into some tough teams in Durham’s tournament over the weekend. The won three and lost two.

Modoc sports—

Modoc High School teams have started the 2016 season and will continue this week.
The Braves football team will travel to Quincy Friday night, with the JV starting at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow.
Modoc volleyball teams meet Tulelake here Sept. 6, with JV at 5 p.m. and the varsity at 6 p.m.
The Cross Country team heads to Vacaville Sept. 3 for the Lagoon Valley Classic.
Soccer starts with a scrimmage against Chester here Sept. 1, 5 p.m. A Redding Christian Tournament is set tentatively for Sept. 2-3.

September 8, 2016

News

Rhoades murder trial in Roseville Nov. 17

The capital murder case of the People v. Cherie Rhoades is set for Nov. 17 in the Placer County Courthouse in Roseville.
A bit of a question mark heading forward will be California’s Proposition 62, the Repeal of the Death Penalty Initiative, which will be on the November 8, 2016, ballot in California as an initiated state statute. A "yes" vote supports repealing the death penalty and making life without the possibility of parole the maximum punishment for murder.

Pit River Tribe donates ambulance to BV

Chairman Mickey Gemmill Jr. and the Pit River Tribal Council and Clinton Davis, Board Chair of the Southern Cascades EMS District jointly announced last week that the Pit River Tribal Council has donated a Critical Care Ambulance to the EMS district.

Recall will go forward in KID

The recall of at least two of the Klamath Irrigation District Boars members will go forward as signatures on two recall petition have been verified. The third petition is under study.
The necessary number of signatures has been verified to recall Brent Cheyne and Ken Smith.

Obituary—

Victoria Lynn Chappell
Victoria Lynn Chappell, age 58, passed away while sleeping on August 31, 2016 at her Alturas home. Victoria was born November 13, 1957 in Denver, Colorado.

Sports

Braves fall to Quincy 34-0, Lost River next

The Modoc Braves varsity football team did not play well and lost to Quincy there 34-0 last Friday night. This week they’ll travel to Lost River to try and get into the win column. Modoc has lost it opening two games and scored just six points.

Modoc JV wins nail biter in Quincy

Modoc’s junior varsity football team found itself down 12-6 with 1:32 left in the game against the Quincy Trojans Friday night and won 13-12.

Cross Country running well

The MHS Cross country ran well in the first meet of the season at the Bill Springhorn Invitational at Shasta College last Friday.
“We have an all female group this year and they are really running pretty well, “ said Coach Luke Hughes.

Modoc Netters beat Tulelake in three

Modoc’s volleyball team dominated against Tulelake, winning 25-12, 25-11, 25-18. 
Tulelake’s junior varsity beat Modoc won 16-25 and 19-25 in their opening match.

Braves whip Chester in Soccer; fall to Tulelake

The Modoc Braves soccer team beat the Volcano’s from Chester Thursday September 1, 2016 with a 10-0 victory at home.
Modoc got nipped by the Tulelake Honkers on Tuesday by a score of 6-4.

September 15, 2016

News

Devil’s Garden Wild Horse gather postponed

The gather of wild horses from private and tribal lands near the Devil’s Garden Plateau Wild Horse Territory has been delayed as no contractor was on line this week.
Gather operations are now planned to commence no sooner than Monday, Sept. 19, 2016, or once a contractor is hired.

BLM names new manager

Craig Drake, a natural resource management professional with 24 years of experience, has been named field manager for the Bureau of Land Management’s Applegate Field Office based in Alturas.

RADD moving forward against drug dealers

Drug dealers are a scourge on any society, and in Alturas a recently formed group calling itself Residents Against Drug Dealers, RADD, is trying to make a difference.

Deaths—

Joseph Colt died Sept. 7, 2016 in Las Vegas.

Beverly Callaghan died Sept. 8 in Alturas.

Marie Washoe died Sept. 8 in Lakeview.

Robert “Scotty” Scott died August 17, in Cedarville.

Jean Arlene Bates, died Sept. 2, 2016 in Northfork, Idaho.

Sports

Modoc leads into final period, but loses to Lost River

A few unintended consequences and misfortune kept the Modoc Braves out of the win column Friday night in Lost River, losing 14-13 and putting then at an 0-3 mark.

Modoc JV blanks Lost River

Modoc’s junior varsity football team beat the Lost River Raiders 21-0 Friday night in the preliminary game, putting them 2-1 this season.

Tough races for cross country

Two Modoc High School girls competed in the Yreka Cross Country Showdown on September 10.
The Braves will be back in action at the Mt. Shasta Invitational on Sept. 16.

Modoc sports—
The Braves football team hosts Trinity Friday night with the JV starting at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow.
Modoc volleyball teams are at the Lakeview Tournament Sept. 17.
The Cross Country team runs at the Mt. Shasta Invitational Sept. 16.
Soccer is at Butte Valley Sept. 17, 2 p.m.

September 22, 2016

News

Soup Complex fires near 3,000 acres

At approximately noon September 17, multiple fires were reported near Soup Springs Campground about 12 miles east of Likely, Calif. on the Modoc National Forest.
Six total fires were discovered. One was contained quickly, three were held to a quarter acre or less, while one has continued to grow.
The Soup Complex wildfires near Soup Springs Campground had grown to nearly 3,000 acres by Wednesday and containment was expected by Sept. 31.
The fire started about noon Sept. 17, and while the cause is unknown it is suspicious and under investigation.
As of Wednesday, more than 900 personnel were assigned to the fire. Equipment included 41 engines, 25 heavy equipment units, 11 helicopters and one fixed wing aircraft.

Modoc jobless rate dips to 6.6%

The August 2016 unemployment rate for August 2016 dipped to 6.6 percent from July’s 7.3 percent, according to the state Employment Development Department.
The civilian labor force in August numbered 3,440 with 3,210 employed and 230 unemployed. In July, the labor force was 3,430 with 3,180 employed and 250 unemployed.

Devil’s Garden Wild Horse Gather Update

The wild horse gather from private and tribal lands near the Devil’s Garden Wild Horse Territory will be conducted by Catoor Livestock Roundups beginning early next week. Gather operations are planned to commence no sooner than Monday, Sept. 26, 2016.

IRS files tax third lien against SVHD

The Internal Revenue Service has filed a third Federal Tax Lien against the Surprise Valley Hospital District for unpaid employee withholding taxes.
That lien is for nonpayment of the first quarter of 2016 ending March 31, amounting to $143,401.57. The lien was filed September 20 with the Modoc County Recorder’s Office.

Deaths—

Timothy Lee Belding, died August 16, 2016.

Marie Washoe, died Sept. 8, 2016

Sports

Modoc falls to Trinity, still looking for first win

Modoc’s varsity football team fell to the Trinity Wolves 24-8 Friday night and will have Fall River here this Friday, hoping to improve on its 0-4 record.

Braves second in Lakeview tourney

Modoc’s varsity volleyball team took second place at the Lakeview tourney last Saturday.
“The ladies played hard all day long and were rewarded making it to the championship game against Hosanna,” said coach Kim Schmidt. 

JVs second in Lakeview

Modoc’s junior varsity volleyball team placed second at the Lakeview tourney last weekend, losing the title match to Lost River in a close one 24-26, 17-25.

Runners do well at Bear meet

The Modoc High School and Modoc Middle School Cross Country teams competed at the Mt. Shasta Invitational last Friday. Modoc will compete again on September 28 at the Fall River Invitational.

September 29, 2016

News

County adopts frugal 2016-17 budget

The Modoc County Board of Supervisors, following a week of budget hearings adopted a frugal but workable budget at Tuesday’s regular meeting.
“The rural economic decline is catching up with us,” said County Chief Administrative Officer Chester Robertson. “We’re seeing declines in property values as well as a drop in sales taxes and other issues. Costs are also increasing.”
According to Robertson, the overall general fund has a reduction of $750,000 from last year and the budget does not include the $800,000 hospital debt repayment for next year. The budget also utilizes last year’s contingency of $250,000.

USDA awards MMC Loan for new hospital

At an event last Wednesday, USDA Rural Development State Director Janice Waddell presented Modoc Medical Center (MMC) with a Certificate of Recognition commemorating a new partnership. The USDA has teamed with MMC to help fund their New Facility Project with a loan of $35,130,000. MMC funds are being included ($5,483,900) bringing the total project budget to $40,613,900.
Richard Kasa of the project management firm, Cumming Corp. USA was also on hand to discuss various aspects of the project and to answer questions regarding the project’s timeline.

Wild horse gather goes well

The Modoc National Forest’s second day of gathering Devil’s Garden Wild Horses was successful with approximately 48 horses gathered Tuesday from private land where owners requested their removal. They were then transported safely to Willow Creek Ranch temporary holding facility.
They also gathered 45 wild horses from Pit River Tribal lands Monday near the southwest end of Goose Lake at the tribe’s request.

Soup Complex fires nearing control

As of Tuesday, the Soup Complex fire in the South Warners had burned 2,652 acres and was 62 percent contained. Fighters were continuing to mop-up operations to secure fire lines, reduce the threat of any escape and continue repairing impacts from fire suppression activities.
Modoc National Forest officials advise the public that fire will continue to smolder or burn within the fire perimeter, probably until season-ending rains occur.

Sports

Modoc sports—

Modoc High School teams
The Braves football team hosts Lake Friday night for Homecoming, with the JV starting at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow.
Modoc volleyball teams host tough a Fall River squad tonight, game time 5 p. m. and Trinity Oct. 1, 2 p.m.
The Cross Country team runs at the State of Jefferson meet in Ashland Oct. 1.
Soccer is at Surprise Valley Sept. 29 and hosts Trinity Oct. 1.

Braves set for Homecoming against Lakeview

Friday night will mark the Modoc Braves Homecoming football game against rival Lakeview Honkers.
Modoc is now 0-5 this season and looking for a first win. Lakeview comes in with a 2-1 record. They beat Lost River 17-7 this year, a team Modoc played tight, losing late 14-13.
Last Friday, the varsity lost to Fall River 35-19 here. Fall River was unable to field a junior varsity team.

Netters beat Cougars; Fall River here today

Modoc’s volleyball team traveled to Weed Tuesday and beat them in three: 25-10, 28-26, 25-11. 
The junior varsity beat Weed 25-13, 25-18.

Soccer 2-2 in the SCL

The Modoc Braves soccer team is now 3-2 in the division and 2-2 in the Shasta Cascade League. 
They won two games and lost one in the past week and a half.  They cruised to an easy victory against Surprise Valley by a score of 11-0
The Braves had a tough battle with Butte Valley in Doris and came up short 2-1. 
Last Saturday and Modoc beat Etna 10-0.

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October 6, 2016

News

Devil’s Garden wild horse gather nets 290 horses

Fifty three wild horses were gathered from the Steele Swamp area at the landowner’s request on the last day of gathering Oct. 1 from private and tribal lands within and adjacent to the Devil’s Garden Wild Horse Territory.
This brings the total from all six days to 290, with approximately 200 total shipped to Litchfield corrals for adoption. Approximately 30 older horses have been sent to Litchfield as a result of commitments from adopters at Willow Creek temporary holding facility.
According to the original plan for this gather, releases of horses older than five years have already occurred as younger horses have a higher adoption rate.

School will serve SV senior meals

The Surprise Valley Senior Nutrition program will resume on Tues., Oct. 11, with the SV High School providing the meals. The program has funded senior lunches in Cedarville, twice a week regardless of income, for more than 20 years. The funding for the lunches is from a grant administrated by MSCAA (Modoc Siskiyou Community Action Agency).
Recently the CEO of the Surprise Valley Hospital, Richard Cornwell, gave Sally Armstrong, head of the Cedarville based program, a four-day notice that he was terminating their contract to provide the meals.

County CAO explains full impacts of overall budget

By Chester Robertson
Modoc County Chief Administrative Officer

Last week the Record discussed the Modoc County General fund. It faces a harsh reality this fiscal year including cuts of both revenues and expenditures leading to a reduction in staffing and important core county services.
This is a direct result of the poorly performing local economy.
There is another side of the County’s funding picture. The level of services continues to strengthen for the Special Revenue Fund departments within the County. Approximately 78 percent of the county expenditure budget is composed of special revenue funds. This year the total special revenue fund expenditure budget was $46,824,425.
School will serve SV senior meals

Soup fire under control

On September 30, at 8:00 a.m. the Soup Complex was transferred to a Type 4 command structure. This was the last update unless significant activity occurs.
The Soup complex was at 2,652 acres and 64 percent contained with full containment predicted for Monday. Rain and cooling temperatures on Monday also had a welcome dampening effect.

Sports

Modoc sports—
The Braves football teams head to Etna Friday, with the JV starting at 5:30 p.m. and the varsity to follow.
Modoc volleyball teams are at Etna Oct. 8, Fall River Oct. 11 and Mt. Shasta Oct. 13.
The Cross Country team runs at the West Valley Invitational in Cottonwood, on October 7.
Soccer hosts Butte Valley Oct. 6, 5 p.m. and is at Fall River Oct. 11.

Braves fall to Lakeview, head to Lion’s den

The Modoc Braves varsity football team lost its sixth straight game of the season to Lakeview’s Honkers Friday night and now heads to another winless team, Etna, for possible improvement.
Lakeview tripped the Braves 26-8 in the Modoc Homecoming game as Modoc’s offense couldn’t find its footing.

JVs beat Lakeview 14-6

Modoc’s junior varsity football team, now 5-1 on the season, beat Lakeview 14-6 in the preliminary game Friday night.

Modoc netters split in SCL

Modoc’s varsity volleyball team beat Trinity Saturday 25-18; 25-14 and 25-22.
They fell to a tough Fall River team Thursday 18-25, 22-25 and 16-25.
Modoc’s junior varsity volleyball team lost to Fall River 17-25 and 11-25 last week. On Tuesday they beat Butte Valley 25-7 and 25-21.

October 13, 2016

News

Drilling begins on SV Hot Springs geothermal project

With the magnetotelluric, seismic, gravity, shallow probe and soil gas surveys completed Warner Mountain Energy Corporation has started a new phase of their geothermal power-generating project.
The geophysics part of the project is done and the scientists have selected and prioritized five sites to drill on.
“We are planning to drill a total of 3,000 feet in three to five test temperature gradient wells,” said Lisa Kuscu, head geologist and manager of the project.
The first well was completed on Tuesday afternoon with a total depth reaching approximately 900 feet.
Safety precautions are being taken to avoid drilling into a gas pocket and causing an explosion, as happened in the 1950s near Lake City.

Law enforcement cautions about clowns

Modoc County law enforcement agencies, including the Modoc Sheriff’s Office, Alturas Police Department and Probation Department are concerned about the current “clown hysteria” throughout the country.
According to reports, someone dressed up in a clown costume, possibly carrying a knife, was seen in Alturas on Sunday.

Soup Complex burned area safety

The Soup Complex wildfires are currently in the mop-up stage, and the Burn Area Emergency Response (BAER) team composed of hydrology, archeology, botany, GIS, recreation/trails, engineering and soils specialists is in the process of determining if emergency resource or human health and safety conditions exist.

MNF begins fall prescribed burning

Fire managers on the Modoc National Forest will soon begin fall prescribed burning operations as part of an ongoing effort to reduce catastrophic wildfire potential and improve the overall health of forest ecosystems.

Deaths—

Claudina Shockley died Oct. 1, in Temecula.

Douglas Dollarhide died September 27 in Davis Creek

Robert E. DeWitt died Oct. 7 in Alturas.

Norman Harer died June 19, 2016 in Bella Vista.

Sports

Modoc sports—
The Braves football team has a bye this week.
Modoc volleyball teams are at Mt. Shasta Oct. 13 and Trinity Oct. 15.
The Cross Country team runs at the Burns-Idlewild Meet on October 15 in Burns, Oregon.
Soccer is at Mt. Shasta Oct. 13 and Tulelake Oct. 20.

Etna drops Braves 21-6

The Etna Lions dropped the Modoc Braves season record to 0-7 with a 21-6 win at the Lions home turf Friday night. Modoc has a bye this week and will try to get ready for Fall River Oct. 21 there.
Modoc’s junior varsity lost to Etna 18 to 16, just missing a game winning field goal in the fourth. That’s just the second loss for the team, this year.

Volley drops to Fall River

Modoc volleyball traveled to Fall River Tuesday night and played some great volleyball losing 19-25, 19-25, 23-25
The Etna Lions volleyball team beat Modoc 25-9, 25-16, 25-18 Saturday. They go to Mt. Shasta today and to Trinity Saturday.

Modoc runners hit West Valley course

The Modoc High School team continued its season at the West Valley Invitational on October 7.
The next race for the Braves will be the Burns-Idlewild Meet on October 15 in Burns, Oregon.
The Middle School will race next in Susanville on October 13 and on October 15 in Burns, Oregon.

October 20, 2016

News

Deputy killed in line of duty

“We are awaiting law enforcement investigative reports on the shooting of a Modoc County Deputy Sheriff, which occurred this morning (Oct. 19).  Upon receipt and evaluation of those reports the District Attorney will make a decision on what criminal charges will be filed.  The intentional killing of a peace officer who is ‘engaged in the course and performance of his duties’ is a capital crime in California. We expect to make a filing decision within 48 hours,” said District Attorney Jordan Funk.
There will be no further public comment from the District Attorney until charges are filed.

City opts to build new $2.2 million pool

The Alturas City Council approved spending over $2.2 million on a new swimming pool, almost the same size as the existing pool in the same location.
The funds come from the John L. Wall Trust, which allocated about $2.4 million to the City, earmarked for construction, improvement, repair and maintenance of its swimming pool facility and for other youth related activities. The Last Frontier Healthcare District also donated $100,000 of its Wall Trust funds to this project.
No other proposals were under consideration. The recommendation came from the Council’s Alturas Swimming Pool Committee, which had been studying the project for several months.

SV Hot Springs hosts geothermal open house

The Modoc County CAO, the Board of Supervisors and interested members of the public attended an open house held on Tuesday afternoon at the Surprise Valley Hot Springs Resort to learn more about the ongoing geothermal project.
A second temperature gradient well has been completed and data is being gathered. Two or three more wells are scheduled to be drilled before deciding where the final production well will be located.
The county government officials were given a site visit before meeting in a room heated by geothermal energy.

Deaths

Jackie “Pat” Wayne Patterson of Alturas, CA died Sept. 27, 2016

Robert E Lee DeWitt died Friday, October 7, 2016

Ruth Helen Babcock Bouse died October 11, 2016

Sports

Modoc sports—

Modoc High School teams
The Braves football teams are at Fall River Oct. 21, JV game time 5:30 p.m.
Modoc volleyball teams host Weed Oct. 20, games at 5 p.m., and Etna Oct. 22, games 2 p.m.
The Cross Country team runs at the Trinity Invitational Oct. 26.
Soccer is at Tulelake Oct. 20. Playoffs start Oct. 25.

October 27, 2016

News

Deputy killed on duty mourned by community

On Tuesday morning, Alturas Christian Life Assembly Pastor Clarence McCarty offered a heartfelt and emotional prayer for Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Jack Hopkins prior to the Modoc County Board of Supervisors meeting.
Hopkins was shot to death last Wednesday while responding to a domestic disturbance south of Alturas.
Hopkins death has stunned the community and memorials in his memory are visible throughout the area.
Services for Deputy Hopkins, will be held November 5, 2016, 1:00 p.m. at the Siskiyou Golden Fairgrounds located at 1712 Fairlane Rd., Yreka, CA.

Breiner set for arraignment

Modoc County District Attorney Jordan Funk on Wednesday afternoon said he tentatively expected arraignment of shooting suspect Jack Breiner to be held Friday in Modoc Superior Court. Mr. Breiner will be arraigned on one count of willfull, deliberate and premeditated murder, one count of attempted murder, one count of felon in possession of a firearm and numerous enhancements, including a special circumstance allegation of intentionally killing a peace officer while the officer was engaged in the performance of his duties.  This is a death penalty case.

Modoc jobless rate remains stable

The September 2016 unemployment rate in Modoc remained the same as August at 6.6 percent, according to the state Employment Development Department.
The civilian labor force dropped from August’s 3,440 to 3,400 and the number of employed was 3,170, while 220 were listed as unemployed. Last September the jobless rate was 6.9 percent with 3,310 in the labor force – 3,080 employed and 230 unemployed.

Deaths -

Jack Lanceson Hopkins was killed in the line of duty on Wednesday, October 19, 2016.

Roger Joseph Hopping of Adin passed away Oct. 8, 2016.

Sports

Modoc sports—

The Braves football teams meets U-Prep here Friday, JV game starts at 5:30 p.m., varsity at 7:30 p.m.
Modoc Volleyball team waiting on playoff seeding for November 1-10.
The Cross Country team runs at Small Schools Championships Nov 2 in Cottonwood.

Braves remain winless, home for final two games

Modoc’s varsity football team is now 0-8 on the season and has its final two games at home. Neither opponent looks weak and coach Dominic Budmark expects a real test.
The Braves are coming off a 35-0 loss at Fall River last Friday, in a game that did not have a lot of positives.
While the varsity is struggling, the Modoc junior varsity team has racked up a 6-2 overall record. The dropped Fall River 28-6 in Friday’s preliminary.

Modoc netters win last three games

The Modoc Braves varsity volleyball finished league games strong winning the last three in a row. 
They played Weed on Thursday and won 25-10, 25-11, 25-11.  They beat Etna 28-26, 13-25, 31-33, 25-23, 15-6. 
On Tuesday Modoc hosted Mt. Shasta, who was sitting second in league.  The Braves took it in three games, winning 25-17, 25-20 and 25-15.

JVs win two of three

Modoc’s junior varsity netters also finished strong with two wins.
Last Thursday they beat Weed 25-11, 25-20. They lost to Etna Saturday 25-19, 24-26, 12-15. They beat Mt. Shasta Tuesday 25-20, 24-26, 15-12.

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November 3, 2016

News

Services for Modoc Deputy Saturday

Services for Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Jack Hopkins, will be held November 5, 2016, 1:00 p.m. at the Siskiyou Golden Fairgrounds located at 1712 Fairlane Rd., Yreka, CA.
More than 2,000 people are expected to attend, including several community leaders and government officials from Modoc County.
Hopkins, age 31, was killed in the line of duty October 19, 2016 about 10:30 a.m., after responding to a domestic disturbance call on a rural parcel located approximately eight miles south of Alturas, California.

Appellate Court denies Nessling appeal

Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Dan Nessling, who is accused of excessive force in the arrest of Jason Colt in November 2014, lost his case before the appeals court.
Following that decision, Nessling was arraigned on Tuesday in Modoc Superior Court on a misdemeanor violation of assault by a public officer.

General Election Polls open Tuesday 7 a.m. close 8 p.m.

General Election polls will open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. in Modoc County next Tuesday.
Voted mail ballots must be in to the Modoc County Elections Office, 108 E. Modoc Street, Alturas by 8 p.m. on Nov. 8. The Elections Clerk advises voters to mail in ballots early or to take it to a polling place on Election Day.
Polling places are at the: Four Seasons Restaurant, Fairgrounds, Cedarville; Modoc High School Portable Building next to Head Start, 802 East Street, Alturas; Alturas City Hall, 200 W. North Street, Alturas; Cal Fire Station, 702 E. 8th Street, Alturas; California Pines Lodge; and Macy Flying Service, Tulelake. Many Modoc precincts are mail-in only.

Deaths—

Joanna May Chrysler of Alturas died October 27, 2016.

William Allen Clark of Alturas, died October 25, 2016.

Sports

Modoc netters meet Quincy Tuesday

Modoc’s varsity volleyball team was seeded seventh in the CIF North Section Division Five playoffs and opened with a win over CORE, seeded 10th, of Butte County Tuesday here.
They beat CORE 19-25, 25-7, 25-11 and 25-16.
They head to face number two Quincy there Tuesday evening, 7 p.m. Quincy and number one Durham had first round byes.

Braves play better, but fall to Panthers 21-13

Modoc played better Friday night against University Prep, but fell 21-13 pushing their 2016 record to 0-9. Mt. Shasta, who is leading the Shasta Cascade League, comes to town Friday night to close out the regular season. The Bears will come into Ed Carver Stadium as a heavy favorite.
Modoc’s junior varsity football team lost to U-Prep 28-20 in the opening game. The loss put their season record to 6-3. They face a very strong Mt. Shasta team Friday and hope to play spoiler in league standings.

Modoc wrestlers start next week

Modoc’s wrestling team, the premier program in the north state small schools division, will start practice Nov. 10 in the wrestling room.
Modoc coach Shaun Wood said the team will once again be tough and one of the favorites in the league and section. He feels he is very strong in the light and middleweights and will work to shore up the heavier weight classes.
He expects about 20 wrestlers to join the team.

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November 10, 2016

News

New EMS partnership established in Big Valley

The Southern Cascades Community Service District (SCCSD) and Sierra Medical Services Alliance (SEMSA) are pleased to announce their partnership to provide both air and ground ambulance services to the Big Valley Region in Modoc and Lassen Counties.  
Beginning December 1, the two will commence ground ambulance service from their operating location in Adin.  In the spring of 2017, they also plan to base an air ambulance helicopter in Adin to serve all of northeastern California.
The ground ambulance will operate 24/7 and will operate at the Advanced Life Support level with a full-time staff of paramedics and emergency medical technicians. 

How Modoc voted in the General Election

There weren’t any surprises in how Modoc County voted in Tuesday’s General Election.
President-elect Donald Trump received 70.31 percent of the vote cast here, with 2,413, while Hillary Clinton received 23.25 percent with 798. Gary Johnson received 98, Jill Stein 41, Gloria Estela La Riv, nine, and there were 73 write-in votes. Statewide, Clinton got 61.4 percent, 5,471,662 and Trump 33.3 percent, 2,962,589.
Kalama Harris defeated fellow Democrat Loretta Sanchez to replace retiring U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer with 62.5 percent of the vote statewide. She was favored in Modoc by 59.23 percent.

Jury convicts on sexual abuse of minor after three-week trial

“Following a three week trial, a panel of 12 Modoc County jurors rendered a guilty verdict in a case alleging one count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Minor against Anthony Newell.
Newell has been a resident of Modoc County since 2008, except that from mid-2012 until May of 2014 he had been incarcerated in the California State Prison for an unrelated crime involving methamphetamine. 

Memorial services for Deputy Nov. 18 here

A local memorial service for Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Jack Hopkins, will be held November 18, 3:00 p.m. at the Griswold Gym in Alturas.
Hopkins, age 31, was killed in the line of duty October 19, 2016 about 10:30 a.m., after responding to a domestic disturbance call on a rural parcel located approximately eight miles south of Alturas, California.

Deaths

Richard Heath “Rick” Stevenson died Nov. 1, 2016.

Sports

SV hosts hoop tourney

The Surprise Valley Elementary Girls 8th grade basketball team, recently participated in the Modoc Middle School basketball tournament held November 4th and 5th.
On Saturday, November 12 the Surprise Valley Girls basketball team will be hosting basketball games at the Surprise Valley High School Gym starting at 8:30 a.m. Schools participating are Modoc, Fall River, Burney, Tulelake, Big Valley and Surprise Valley.

Braves lose last game to Bears

Modoc’s varsity football team lost to the Mt. Shasta Bears 42-0 in their final game of the season Friday night. The loss gave them a 0-10 season record.
Modoc JV falls to Mt. Shasta
The Braves junior varsity ran into a very strong Mt. Shasta team losing 48-14 to finish the season with a 6-4 record.

Quincy beats Modoc girls

Modoc’s volleyball team lost to a tough Quincy team 13-25, 20-25, 20-25 Tuesday in Quincy.

Cross Country does well in SCL

The Modoc High Cross Country team performed well at the Shasta Cascade League/Small Schools Championships on November 2 at West Valley High School.
The Braves will race again on Nov. 10 at the North Section CIF Championships at West Valley High School.

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November 17, 2016

News

Effort for SV high speed broadband gaining

Lake County, Oregon Commissioner Ken Kestner and Ginger Casto, Rural Development Specialist of South Central Oregon, have been holding meetings in Surprise Valley to determine the need for dependable, high speed broadband Internet service in Surprise and Warner Valleys.
“Let's face it, we're not rural, we're remote,” said Kestner.
Kestner explained that areas such as Christmas Valley, Plush, Adel, Warner Valley and Surprise Valley all have at least three things in common: low population, slow and unreliable Internet service.
The larger, for profit providers shy away from servicing rural remote areas; not enough customers to make it pay.

Local memorial services for Deputy Hopkins Nov. 18

A local memorial service for Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Jack Hopkins, will be held November 18, 3:00 p.m. at the Griswold Gym in Alturas.
Hopkins, age 31, was killed in the line of duty October 19, 2016 after responding to a domestic disturbance call on a rural parcel located approximately eight miles south of Alturas, California.
Hopkins had entered the property to investigate the call when he confronted the main suspect. Deputy Hopkins was allegedly shot and killed by Jack Lee Breiner, 47, of Alturas. Breiner is scheduled for a preliminary hearing in Modoc Superior Court January 12.

Supervisors approve step to be a Groundwater Sustainability Agency

On Tuesday, Modoc Supervisors adopted a resolution to form a Groundwater Sustainability Agency, a big step in ensuring the decisions affecting groundwater remain local.
The Modoc Groundwater Resources advisory Committee has been meeting for months to come to terms with the new state law that will put in place a groundwater monitoring and a fee structure for the use of groundwater.
There are two medium priority water basins currently identified in Modoc County, the Big Valley and Tulelake basins. It is anticipated that as the study continues at the state level, more area in Modoc will be added as groundwater basins.

Fort Bidwell Veterans honored

The sun shone brightly upon the Fort Bidwell Cemetery on Monday morning as markers were placed among service members’ headstones. The Surprise Valley VFW Auxiliary, Veterans and community members humbly honored those known and forgotten.
Marilynn Johnson, Robert Johnson, Cleo Smith, Kathy Mueller, Mabel Johnson, Barbara Heryford, Patricia Garcia, Larry Stevenson, Keith Gorzell and Jane Higgins were in attendance for the ceremony. Marilynn gave a heartfelt speech beside the unknown solider gravesite.
The Auxiliary will continue its efforts to place markers throughout the Valley at all four cemeteries with the help of the cemetery districts and Veteran families. Families are encouraged to donate and are asked to send history about their loved ones, which will be given to the districts.
To learn about purchasing markers please contact Marilynn Johnson at 530-279-2429.

Deaths

James Asher of Cedarville died on November 8, 2016.

Sports

Modoc basketball opens Nov. 29

Modoc High School’s 2016-17 basketball season opens with in against Tulelake here Nov. 29. Game times are: junior varsity girls 4 p.m., junior varsity boys 5:30 p.m., varsity girls 7 p.m. and varsity boys 8:30 p.m.
The varsity girls will participate in the Yreka Miner Invitational Dec. 1-3 and the junior varsity and varsity boys will compete in the Fall River Block F tourney Dec. 1-3. All team will head to the Portola Tourney Dec. 8-10 and the Block M Tourney in Alturas is scheduled Dec. 15-17.
Jim Widby coaches the varsity boys’ team and Ernie Givan coaches the junior varsity. Amy Britton coaches the varsity girls and Jason Smith has the junior varsity. Practice started this week.

Wrestling has 26 on the roster

The Modoc High Wrestling team had 26 students show up for the first day of a grueling practice last Thursday and all of them returned on Friday, which coach Shaun Wood viewed as a positive.
The Braves first outing with a dual match with Lassen on Nov. 30 at Lassen High School. The big Chester Invitational Tournament Dec. 2-3 and the Modoc Northeast Classic will be held at the Griswold Gym Dec. 9-10.

Cross Country finishes at Section

Taryn Burns was the top finisher for the Braves, placing 82nd in 25:01. Hailey Hopkins placed 108th in 27:18, Madison Toomey was 118th in 28:49, and Kylee Beneventi was 123rd in 29:37.

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November 24, 2016

News

Major trials on tap—

The next couple of months are going to be extremely busy for the Modoc District Attorney’s Office as some high profile cases are on the calendar.
The capital murder case of Cherie Rhoades starts Nov. 28 in the Placer County Courthouse in Roseville, according to Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk.
Picking a jury will be the first order of business next Monday and Funk expects the trial to last two to three weeks. A change of venue was approved in the case because of the publicity the crime generated in this area. She remains in custody in the Modoc County Jail.
In a separate case, Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Dan Nessling, who is accused of excessive force in the arrest of Jason Colt in November 2014, will be in Modoc Superior Court Nov. 29 to set a trial date. Funk expects that trial to be held after the first of the year.
Nessling was arraigned recently in Modoc Superior Court on a misdemeanor violation of assault by a public officer. The case continued after the Appellate Division for the Superior Courts of California for Modoc, Lassen, Plumas and Sierra Counties denied Nessling’s appeal to dismiss the case.
On January 12, Jack Breiner, who is accused of murdering Modoc Deputy Jack Hopkins will be in Modoc Superior Court to set a preliminary hearing.
Hopkins, age 31, was killed in the line of duty October 19, 2016 after responding to a domestic disturbance call on a rural parcel located approximately eight miles south of Alturas, California.

Jobless rates ticks up to 7.1%

The unemployment rate in Modoc for October 2016 ticked up from September’s 6.6 percent to 7.1 percent, according to the state Employment Development Department.
The civilian labor force numbered 3,450 in October, up from 3,400 in September. In October 2015 the labor force numbered 3,330. Last month there were 3,210 people employed, as opposed to 3,170 in September. The number of unemployed people was 240, compared to 220 in September. On October 2015 there were 3,090 employed people and 240 unemployed.
Total government employment in October went up from 1,260 to 1,280.

Sports

Wrestling opens in Lassen Nov. 30

The Modoc High Wrestling team’s first outing is a dual match with Lassen on Nov. 30 at Lassen High School. The big Chester Invitational Tournament Dec. 2-3 and the Modoc Northeast Classic will be held at the Griswold Gym Dec. 9-10.

Modoc basketball opens Nov. 29

Modoc High School’s 2016-17 basketball season opens against Tulelake here Nov. 29. Game times are: junior varsity girls 4 p.m., junior varsity boys 5:30 p.m., varsity girls 7 p.m. and varsity boys 8:30 p.m.
The varsity girls will participate in the Yreka Miner Invitational Dec. 1-3 and the junior varsity and varsity boys will compete in the Fall River Block F tourney Dec. 1-3. All teams will head to the Portola Tourney Dec. 8-10 and the Block M Tourney in Alturas is scheduled Dec. 15-17.

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December 1, 2016

News

MNF firefighters assist in Southern states

Modoc National Forest fire and fire-support personnel are assisting firefighters in Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and the Carolinas with efforts to stem the catastrophic fires that have devastated portions of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, two Wilderness Areas, the Appalachian Trail and threatened hundreds of structures. WLOS News from Asheville, N.C. reported as of Sunday there are 24 large wildfires currently burning throughout the Southern United States, totaling more than 130,000 acres.
Approximately 15 overhead personnel and one engine from the Modoc were mobilized to the southern states to work on the fireline and in fire support jobs such as logistics, finance, planning and administration

SVHCD restarts ambulance service

Surprise Valley Health Care District is resuming Basic Life Support ambulance service effective December 1, 2016, according to Hospital Administrator Rich Cornwell.

Rhoades murder trial in progress in Roseville
Nessling case set for trial in March

The capital murder case of Cherie Rhoades started Nov. 28 in the Placer County Courthouse in Roseville, and Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk is trying the case.
A change of venue was approved in the case because of the publicity the crime generated in this area
In a separate major case, Modoc Sheriff’s Deputy Dan Nessling, who is accused of excessive force in the arrest of Jason Colt in November 2014, will go to trial in Modoc Superior Court March 13, 2017. That trial date was set Tuesday.

Deaths—

Kathleen Jean Ackley died Nov. 18, 2016.

Loretta Eva DiTommaso died November 23, 2016.

Sports

Modoc basketball opens with wins over Tulelake

Modoc High School’s 2016-17 basketball season opened against Tulelake Tuesday with four wins.
 “We played our first game of the season Tuesday night against Tulelake,” Widby said. “The kids played okay, we just need a little more time and work, but we won the game 50-12.
The varsity girls will participate in the Yreka Miner Invitational Dec. 1-3 and the junior varsity and varsity boys will compete in the Fall River Block F tourney Dec. 1-3. All teams will head to the Portola Tourney Dec. 8-10 and the Block M Tourney in Alturas is scheduled Dec. 15-17.
The girls’ varsity beat Tulelake in a good game Tuesday, 37-33.
The junior varsity girls beat Tulelake 46-18. Haley Lafferty led with 16 points and sister Brooke Lafferty added 13.
The Modoc JV Boys beat Tulelake 49-31.

Wrestling heads to Chester invitational

The Modoc High Wrestling team heads to the Chester Invitational Tournament Dec. 2-3 and the Modoc Northeast Classic will be held at the Griswold Gym Dec. 9-10.

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December 8, 2016

News

BV ambulance service delayed

The Southern Cascades Community Service District (SCCSD) and Sierra Medical Services Alliance (SEMSA) are disappointed to announce a delay in the start of ambulance service to the Big Valley area. 
According to the District, after close inspection, mechanical and safety issues were found in the vehicle they intended to put in service on December 1.  Those issues were serious enough that putting that vehicle in service would be a safety hazard to the communities. 

Local gas prices vary

Regular gas prices per gallon in Modoc vary, from a low of $2.18 with cash and $2.23 credit at Rabbit Traxx in Cedarville to $2.77 at the Alturas Chevron.
Chimney Rock’s new gas station noted a price of $2.59. Valley Service in Cedarville is at $2.29. The Modoc Mini Mart and Alliance Gas are at $2.73 per gallon.

Child abuser sentenced to maximum time

Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk is still down in Roseville on Sherie Rhoades murder trial, but made a telephonic court appearance Tuesday at the Anthony Newell sexual abuse sentencing hearing.  
Superior Court Judge David Mason sentenced Newell to the maximum of 16 years in state prison.  Newell was convicted of continuous sexual abuse of minor after three-week trial in November. He was not eligible for probation.

First Devil’s Garden Horse adopted, brought back home

Devil’s Garden mustang adoptions began last week. One was a blue roan yearling gelding adopted by Tessa Glaze of Davis Creek, CA. She named him Tuffy.
For a mustang that had been living wild a short time ago, he loaded, traveled in the trailer for two hours, unloaded and settled into his new home with surprising calm. If Tuffy’s temperament is typical, these horses promise to be very tractable.

Deaths –

Bonnie Sue Slinkard died Oct. 31, 2016  in Chico.
Marjorie Shepard died Dec. 3, 2016 in Alturas.
Janet Ione Wolter services are Dec. 10 in Adin.

Sports

Modoc Northeast Classic wrestling tourney this weekend

The Modoc Northeast Classic Wrestling Tournament is set this weekend at the Griswold Gym. Wrestling will start at 12 noon Friday and at 9 a.m. Saturday. The championship matches should take place between 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday.

Modoc boys third in Block F

Modoc’s varsity boys’ basketball team placed third in the Block F Tournament last weekend in McArthur. They head to the Portola tournament this weekend.
Modoc beat Big Valley in the opening game 82-62 on Thursday.
Fall River knocked off the Braves 65-59 in the second game
The Braves beat Chester 60-41 in the third-place game.
Modoc’s junior varsity boys won the Block F title with wins over Big Valley, Fall River and Trinity.

Modoc heads to Portola tourney

Modoc’s varsity girls’ basketball team lost its three games at the Yreka Tournament last weekend and head to the Portola Invite this week.
The girls ran into some bigger school teams at Yreka. They held their own, forcing overtime against Klamath Union, but lost 54-48.
Del Norte High beat them 51-25 and they lost the Brookings-Harbor 57-37.

Basketball on the road
Surprise Valley Hornets head to Paisley on Saturday, December 17. Game begins at 1 p.m.

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December 15, 2016

News

Rhoades murder trial may go to jury soon

The capital murder case of Cherie Rhoades, which started Nov. 28 in the Placer County Courthouse in Roseville, may be going to the jury in the next few days.
According to reports from the trial, Modoc County District Attorney Jordan Funk may have wrapped up his prosecution on Wednesday and the defense would have begun theirs.
It’s possible that closing arguments could be made today or on Monday.

City, County join forces on river project

The current Pit River Channel dredging is being billed as a prime example of local governments working together to get a job done. And it’s getting a necessary project done in a cost efficient manner.
The Pit River channel going through Alturas and east has been filling with silt for years. The lack of regular maintenance also allowed brush, weeds and trees to grow within the channel. The big concern was the possibility of flooding, since the levee system riprap is no longer visible in all areas as it is covered with soil, plants and debris.

SV woman dies in car wreck

A single vehicle accident December 11 on Cedar Pass claimed the life of Jennifer Emery, age 43, of Cedarville.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Emery was driving a 1994 Mercedes Benz westbound on SR 299 west of Cressler Street about 9:30 p.m. at an unsafe speed for the icy roadway. She allowed the car to drift out of the westbound lane and into the eastbound lane where she lost control.

County will apply for jail grant

Modoc County Supervisors Tuesday approved a request for qualifications for architectural/engineering consultants to conduct costs estimating, architectural program and application assistance aimed at state jail construction funding.
Undersheriff Tex Dowdy told the Board that he has had contact from prospective consultants who do want to come to Modoc for the project.
The deadline for having the application in to the Board of State and Community Corrections SB844 Jail Construction Funding Program is Feb. 28.

Deaths—

Harold Rosendahl died Dec. 7, 2016
Lorraine DeCroix died Dec. 5, 2016.
Marjorie Grey Shepherd died Dec. 3, 2016
Lois Crockett Hoover Champe died Nov. 29, 2016
James W. Glass died Oct. 14, 2016

Sports

Braves win NE Classic Small Schools title; Red Bluff wins it all

There were 29 school teams participating in the Modoc Northeast Classic Wrestling Tournament over the weekend. The Braves won the small school title, while Red Bluff won large schools and the overall event.
Modoc heads to the Grants Pass Tournament Dec. 16 and 17.

Braves varsity tops Portola tourney, on to Block M

Modoc varsity basketball head coach Jim Widby said he expected his squad to win the Portola Invitational last weekend and they followed his instincts.
This week, they’ll be at home for the Block M Invitational. They play Etna tonight, 8:30 p.m. Tulelake Friday 8 p.m. and Lakeview Saturday 5:40 p.m.

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December 22, 2016

News

Jury finds Cherie Rhoades guilty of 1st degree murder

On Monday, a jury in Roseville found Cherie Rhoades guilty of four counts of first-degree murder in the shooting death of four people at the Cedarville Rancheria Office in Alturas Feb. 20, 2014.
The jury decided that Rhoades “did willfully, unlawfully, with malice aforethought and with premeditation or by means of lying in wait murder those people.
She was also convicted of two courts of first-degree attempted murder and several special enhancements. The jury deliberation was swift, only taking about an hour and a half of deliberation on Monday afternoon.
The special enhancements include the use of a firearm to cause great bodily injury or death and multiple murders.
Rhoades will go back for sentencing January 3, in Roseville. She faces either the death penalty or life in prison without possibility of parole. District Attorney Jordan Funk is still seeking the death penalty against Rhoades.

BV’s Dan Bouse honored for EMS efforts

Thirty-four Californians were honored for their heroic acts and extraordinary contributions to EMS on December 14 in San Francisco. One of those was Big Valley’s Dan Bouse.
Dr. Howard Backer, Director of the California Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA), has announced the recipients of California Emergency Medical Services Awards for 2016.
Ernest "Dan" Bouse, Adin, Adin Ambulance Service, was awarded the prestigious EMS Cross.

Modoc jobless bumps up to 7.9%

The November 2016 unemployment rate for Modoc County went up to 7.9 percent from October’s 7.1 percent, according to the State Employment Development Department.
The civilian labor force numbered 3,260 for November, down from October’s 3,450. Of the labor force, 3,000 were working and 260 were unemployed. Last November the labor force numbered 3,160 with 2,900 employed and 260 unemployed.

Modoc joins suit to stop BLM’s new resource planning rules

On December 12, counties in six western states and a soil and water conservation district filed suit in federal district court in Utah challenging new resource planning rules adopted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). 
The group maintains these new rules will severely impair their ability to work with the BLM on future planning and management issues, while changing the way public lands are managed to the detriment of their citizens.
The petitioners in the suit are Kane County, Utah, Big Horn County, Wyoming, Chaves County, New Mexico, Custer County, Idaho, Garfield County, Colorado, Modoc County, California and the Dona Ana Soil and Water Conservation District in New Mexico. 

Death—

Lorraine DeCroix died Dec. 6, 2016 in Alturas.
Willard St. John died Dec. 14, 2014 in Napa.
Grace Anola Dixon died Dec. 18 in Cedarville.

Sports

Braves win Block M handily

The Modoc Braves varsity boy’s basketball team won the Block M Tournament over the weekend without much trouble. They increased the preseason record to 9-1 and will go into Shasta Cascade League play as one of the favorites.
“The kids played great this weekend,” said coach Jim Widby. “We were very excited to be the boys varsity Block M champions. The bell which goes to the school of the winning team and gets passed around year-to-year started 10 years ago and Modoc has never won it. So this was a very exciting day for the boys, finally Modoc put its name on the bell. Looking forward to league beginning in January.”
The Braves are off for the holidays and face Burney on Jan 10. They open SCL play against Fall River here Jan. 13.

Lakeview trips Modoc girls in Block M

The Lakeview Honkers tripped up the Modoc varsity girl’s basketball team in the Block M tournament last weekend.
Lakeview won the final game 49-28 after Modoc held it close in the first quarter 7-8. The Honkers pumped in 16 points in the second period to lead the Braves 24-15. Lakeview added to the lead with a 14-5 third period and an 11 to six fourth quarter.

Wrestlers do well in Grants Pass

Modoc wrestlers traveled to the Grants Pass matches Dec.16-17 and faced wrestlers from 30 schools.
Modoc heads to the Sierra Nevada Classic in Reno Dec. 28-29. That event draws some of the best wrestlers from the west.

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December 29, 2016

News

Sentencing for mass-murderer January 3

Convicted mass murderer Cherie Rhoades, of Cedarville, will face sentencing January 3 in a Placer County Courtroom in Roseville. Modoc District Attorney Jordan Funk is seeking the death penalty in the case.
The hearing will be in the same Courtroom where on December 19, Rhoades was found guilty of four counts of first-degree murder in the shooting death of four people at the Cedarville Rancheria Office in Alturas Feb. 20, 2014.
The jury decided that Rhoades “did willfully, unlawfully, with malice aforethought and with premeditation or by means of lying in wait murder those people.”
She was also convicted of two courts of first-degree attempted murder and several special enhancements. The jury deliberation was swift, only taking about an hour and a half of deliberation on Monday afternoon.

2016 will finish with above average precipitation

The January to December calendar year 2016 will go down as wetter than historical averages in Modoc as it comes to a close. The water year, used by most agencies for record keeping and projections is from October 1 to September 30.
As Modoc sits now, precipitation for the calendar year is 14.17 inches. That total is well above the historical average of 12.13 inches. Some marginal precipitation is expected to close out December, but nothing substantial.
December to date shows 1.75 inches of precipitation, above the to date total of .95 inches and higher than the monthly average of 1.71 inches. That precipitation is on top of a dry November showing .53 inches, well below the monthly average of 1.79 inches.

Geothermal pipeline work goes under Main Street

While much of the geothermal pipeline from Modoc High School to the new re-injection well at the Alturas Airport is installed, the work now is to drill and connect under the intersection at Eighth and Main.
“The bore under Main Street is going now,” said Modoc Joint Unified School District Superintendent Tom O’Malley. “According to the gentleman who is doing the boring, it is going well. It is a slow process though. It is about 340 feet and the casing has to be welded every 40 feet. I am hoping they will be done with the bore and have the line connected by the middle of January.”
O’Malley also said the well house at the re-injection well needs to be constructed to get power to it.  
“Once that is done and the pumps are installed, we can begin to flow water,” said O’Malley. “That being said, there is still a lot to do. None of it is like drilling a well or running pipe across town, but there are a lot of connections, conversions and testing that needs to occur. Getting any heat from the system this heating season is doubtful in my mind.”
Once completed and tested the geothermal heat will be used at Modoc High, Alturas Elementary and Middle School and at the Alturas Swimming pool. A grant from the California Energy Commission made the project possible.

Lava Beds to start of seasonal Crystal Ice Cave Tours
                                                                                                                   
Lava Beds National Monument staff have determined that Crystal Ice Cave will be ready for public tours beginning on January 7, 2017.
Overnight low temperatures have been dropping into the single digits, which allows cold, dense air to sink into the cave entrance and cool the depths of the cave, solidifying ice resources and furthering their growth with adequate precipitation.
Recently, monument staff assessed the cave and the condition of its ice formations and determined that the ice floors are frozen enough to allow tours to begin.
Public tours will begin Saturday, January 7, 2017, and will be given every Saturday through March 2017, or as conditions allow. Space is limited to six people per tour, as the warmth brought into the cave by people can significantly alter ice formations. To sign up for a tour, go to Recreation.gov and search “Lava Beds National Monument Tours.”

Deaths—

L. Marie Reeves passed away after a brief illness in Reno, Nevada at the Renown Hospital on December 22, 2016, at the age of 91.

Sports

Coming up in Sports—

The vacation will be ending soon and area high school teams will get back on the hardwood and mats. The upcoming schedule is as follows.
Modoc High School basketball will be at Burney Jan. 10, with junior varsity girls at 4 p.m., JV boys 5:30 p.m., varsity girls 7 p.m. and varsity boys 8:30 p.m. Burney is no longer in the Shasta Cascade League. They open SCL play with Fall River at home Jan. 13 with JV girls at 4 p.m., JV boys at 5:30 p.m., varsity girls at 7 p.m. and varsity boys at 8:30 p.m.
Modoc wresting is at the huge Sierra Nevada classic event in Reno Dec. 28-29 and will be at NorCal Jan. 6-7.
Surprise Valley basketball has Westwood at home Jan. 3, game time at 5 p.m., Big Valley at home Jan. 5, 5 p.m. and head to Hayfork Jan. 7. The Hornets do not have JV teams.

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