Let the Spring Sports Begin.
Alturas Man Ordered to Trial for 2023
Child Sex Abuse Charges, Remains Free
Sheriff criticizes judge’s decision; residents voice concern
By: Shaelene Tims
A judge ordered Abel Anastasio to stand trial on multiple felony charges involving the sexual abuse of a child following a preliminary hearing held Tuesday.
Anastasio, who has remained free under supervision since the charges were initially filed in 2023, faces counts of sexual penetration of a child, forcible lewd acts upon a child, and continuous sexual abuse of a child. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to 46 years in state prison and would be required to register as a sex offender for life.
Modoc County Sheriff Tex Dowdy strongly criticized the court’s decision to allow Anastasio to remain out of custody while awaiting trial.
“I am deeply concerned and disappointed that someone facing such serious accusations remains free in our community,” Dowdy said.
“We had clear probable cause—enough for him to answer these charges. I asked the District Attorney if every effort was made to keep him in custody. How do we not keep this guy in custody?” Dowdy added, “We’re not one of those counties dealing with overcrowding. There is
room for him in jail. We would have made room.”
The Modoc County District Attorney’s Office noted the case was first filed before District Attorney Nina Salerno took office, and thus did not comment on the specific conditions of Anastasio’s release. Anastasio has remained under supervision since his initial arraignment.
The judge’s decision to keep Anastasio out of custody has unsettled some residents.
According to City-Data. com, there are currently more than 40 registered sex offenders residing in the area.
“I don’t understand how he’s not in jail,” said one Alturas resident, who
requested anonymity. “These are serious charges. If we’re not protecting our kids, what are we doing?”
Anastasio is the father of a former Alturas resident previously involved in a separate criminal case concerning the suspicious death of his own child. Authorities stated there is no known connection between the two cases.
The case remains active, and Anastasio is scheduled to return to court at a future date yet to be announced. The district attorney’s office also clarified that Judge Wendy Dier did not preside over Tuesday’s preliminary hearing.
Modoc County Ranchers Face Major Hurdle: No Local Meat Processing Facility
Modoc County ranchers are the leaders in the state of California in organic beef production but are faced with the extreme dilemma of no local facility to process the beef. Whether for personal use or commercial sale, all slaughter and processing must take place in Oregon or Reno, Nevada. This lack of infrastructure increases the cost of doing business, creates pressure on local ranchers, and severely hinders market opportunities, leaving the ranchers with few options. The issue is not merely inconvenient. USDA regulation requires the facility to have onsite the services of a
federal inspector on a full-time basis if it is to gain approval from the federal government. With the rural location of Modoc County and the surrounding area, for that matter, it is not feasible to fill that position, making it difficult to establish a USDA-certified facility. Without the certification, local ranchers are not permitted to sell their beef in retail stores, so they are relegated to utilizing distant processors or selling the animals whole to consumers. Even in nearby Klamath Falls, Oregon, the existing meat processing facility is not USDA-certified and is thus restricted to processing the meat for
personal use or animals to be sold “on the hoof,” but not to make federally approved cuts to sell more broadly. Even small-scale cattle and sheep raisers are faced with logistics and cost issues. Transporting cattle or sheep over long distances to the processor is stressful to the animals and expensive in fuel and labor. Fuel price increases and limited processing slots at existing facilities make matters worse.
Other regions have tested alternative models, such as mobile slaughter units and stateinspected facilities, to bypass these challenges. Some ranchers have built their own USDA-certified mobile harvest facilities
to handle processing on-site, eliminating the need for long-distance transportation. While this approach offers a solution, it requires significant investment, regulatory approval, and operational expertise. Breaking this bottleneck will require collaboration between ranchers, policymakers, and agricultural groups to implement effective strategies. Key areas of effort include local infrastructure investment, workforce development to attract and retain USDA inspectors, and policy adjustments to expand opportunities to market state-inspected meats to local consumers. The cattle industry is
Federal Education Cuts Raise Questions for Local Schools
By Staff Writer
As the federal government moves to downsize the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), rural communities like Modoc County could see changes to school funding and programs. While supporters argue that eliminating the department will return control to states and reduce bureaucracy, others worry about the potential impact on schools that rely on federal funding.
Modoc County schools receive financial support from programs such as Title I, which helps low-income students, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which provides funding for special education services. With proposed reductions in federal
education funding, local districts may need to reassess resources for students who rely on these programs.
Special education funding is a particular concern. Some educators believe cuts could make it more difficult to provide services, while others see an opportunity to reassess how resources are allocated.
“We dedicate a significant amount of time to developing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for our students with special needs to ensure they receive the best possible learning experience,” said Modoc Joint Unified School District Superintendent Tom O’Malley. “For my district, federal oversight often hinders rather than helps this important
work. My hope is that any money saved by reducing the size of the Department of Education will be redirected to better support students with special needs.”
Teacher shortages, already a challenge in rural areas, could be another consequence. Federal funding supports programs that help educators obtain credentials and fill positions in hard-to-staff districts. Without this support, rural schools may struggle to hire and retain teachers, potentially leading to larger class sizes or school closures. At the same time, some see benefits in shifting control away from Washington, D.C.
A retired principal in New York described the DOE as an unnecessary
bureaucracy, arguing that local communities should have more authority over education decisions. Others believe that reducing federal oversight will allow states to allocate resources
more effectively based on their own priorities.
For now, the long-term effects of DOE downsizing remain unclear. While some schools could benefit from greater state and local control, others may face financial shortfalls
Photo from Modoc County Sheriffs Office
the lifeblood of Modoc County’s economy, but the lack of local processing generates higher costs and fewer opportunities
for ranchers. Investment in local efforts is the solution to preserve the region’s agricultural heritage.
Thank you
The Hawes families would like to thank the following people for helping mom’s final days to be easier. Dr. Anders and Dr. Kappen in ER. Dr. Burkholder and Dr. Hagge during hospitalization. To Susan and all of the nursing staffs, ER staffs, lab, dietary, pharmacy and everyone who interacted with mom. We thank Dr. Richert who was her doctor, employer and friend and the clinic staffs for many years. Mom truly loved working at MMC and the friends she made there over the years. Again, thank you so much.....
The Hawes families
Proud of Modoc Medical Center
All of Modoc County plus the City of Alturas should be very proud of our wonderful Modoc Medical Center. Every time I have to have their services; it has always been a great experience. Just last week I was there for about four hours while being tested for information on my health problems. Tom, Oleg, Brianna, Dwan, Chantele, Kelly, P.A.
Shili and Dr. Edmonds worked diligently to help me. Thanks for your great care and all the service you gave me.
Sincerely,
Rollie L. Gilliam
Looking Back
131 Years Ago – 1894
PETER HEARD and Wm. Toney came over from Lake City with a four-horse team and managed to return the same day. That is quite an undertaking this time of the year... J. T. Laird has always kept his store doors open but the other night some hungry individuals entered and stole aa quarter of beef. He says he is going to keep his larder locked from now on.
111 Years Ago – 1914
MODOC BOYS went by train to Lakeview to play basketball. The trains was two and a half hours late, but the Modoc boys won anyway, 49-20... A big schooner of beer and a hot sausage will be only five cents at D. W. Thomas’ shop in New Pine Creek... The Hess Mine has 18 employees getting the mine in shape
Small Earthquakes Rattle Northeast California
SCEDC (2013): Southern California Earthquake Center. Caltech.Dataset. doi:10.7909/C3WD3xH1
A series of small earthquakes shook the remote region east of Alturas and near the Oregon border this past week, with the largest—a magnitude 3.2—occurring at 10:34 p.m. on March 11. The quake struck 45 miles east-southeast of Lakeview, Oregon, at a depth of 4.1 miles.
Four smaller tremors, ranging from magnitude 1.9 to 3.1, were also recorded in the same area over 24 hours. No damage or injuries have been reported, but residents may have felt light shaking. Though small, these quakes are a reminder that Northeast California sits in a seismically active region. The Modoc Plateau, crisscrossed by fault lines, has seen occasional swarms of minor quakes. Experts say these events are normal but underscore the need for preparedness. If you felt any of these earthquakes, you can help scientists better understand their impact by reporting your experience
to the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) “Did You Feel It?” program at earthquake.usgs. gov. These reports help seismologists study how quakes are felt at different locations.
While none of these quakes were strong, the USGS reminds residents that larger earthquakes can happen at any time. Now is a good time to check emergency plans and supplies.
and it should produce some paying quantities of gold before long... Nettie B. Harris has announced she will be running for the office of Superintendent of Schools. Renshaw and Close will deliver Overland autos to Herbert Beardsley, Joe Bohrensen, M. Gosch, Al Tornquist and Wm. Munroe.
91 Years Ago – 1934
THE PWA has gained approval for the construction of a dam in West Valley. This is good news for the folks in Likely who have long awaited the storage of water for irrigation purposes there... A heavy rainfall was most welcome this week, but temperatures in Alturas have again climbed unseasonably warm and are hovering near 80... Ruth French, Betty Willliams, Paul
Baker and Reginald Leonard finished the first semester in Modoc Union High in scholarship standing... The first carload shipment of ore from the Juniper Minne on Hayden Hill was reported this week by George Harper of Adin. 71 Years Ago – 1954
J. W. JUDY, Alturas realtor, has announced plans to build 50 veterans’ homes near the Modoc Football fired
and will sell them for an estimated $10,500 each... Steve Wistos and Doug Graham have completely renovated their Fourth Street Market and a grand opening is planned to display their store... The Highway 81 Association is planning a caravan of 100 cars to Reno to boost for the road from Sparks, NV to Modoc County... Texaco Oilers have been awarded the first-place trophy in the men’s basketball league.
Got something special you no longer use? Sell it in the classifieds. It may just be the perfect item to fill somebody else’s need.
135 N Main St. Alturas, CA 96101 (530) 233-2632 www.modocrecord.com • nancy@modocmedia.com
The Modoc County
R eco R d
Court Decree No. 6356, Modoc Superior Court July 7, 1958
The Modoc County Record (PUB No. 358-160) is a newspaper of general circulation as defined by statutes of the State of California and is published weekly, each Thursday morning in Alturas, CA. Periodical postage paid at Alturas, CA. and at additional mailing offices. Subscriptions mailed within Modoc, Lassen or Siskiyou counties, and New Pine Creek, OR., 57 cents elsewhere 67 cents. Single issue: $1, including sales tax.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Modoc County Record, P.O. Box 531, Alturas, California, 96101.
Copyright: The entire content of the Modoc County Record, print and online, is copyrighted. Any republishing, broadcast, rewriting, in whole or in part, without express written permission is prohibited.
Associate Publisher - Chelsea Bacon
Legals and Classifieds - Nancy Richardson
Publisher - TJ Montemer
The Modoc County Record is privately owned. 135 N. Main St. Alturas, CA 96101 PHONE (530) 233-2632
Internet: www.modocrecord.com
E-mail: info@modocrecord.com
Bookings
As of Monday morning, there are 22 people in the Modoc County Jail, 3 females and 19 males. Jail capacity is 43.
03/11/25
PRATT, Harvey Edward (age 49, Alturas)
Arrested for two misdemeanor warrants for failure to appear and one felony warrant for failure to appear; booked and held on $20,000 bail
MCSO
03/13/25
GRAY, Ronald Rodger (age 64, Alturas)
Arrested for DUI, unlicensed driver and violation of probation; booked and released on signed promise to appear APD
BOWEN, James Eugene (age 34, Alturas)
Court/DA cite and release for disorderly conduct/loitering
MODOC COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY
03/14/25
BLACK, Christopher Wayne (age 60, Alturas) Arrested for violation
of a court order; booked and held on $39,000 bail
MODOC COUNTY PROBATION
HOLMAN, Marques Ramon (age 49, Alturas)
Arrested for forge/alter vehicle registration, violation of a court order and violation of probation; booked and held on $45,000 bail APD
THOMPSON, Joshua Avery (age 43, Alturas)
Arrested for violation of probation, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia; booked and held on $50,000 bail APD
03/15/25
PEREZ, Samuel Earl (age 32, Alturas) Turned in to serve sentence on three misdemeanor warrants for failure to appear and trespassing; booked and held without bail MODOC COUNTY SUPERIOR COURTS
Modoc County Sheriffs Office
Blotter
Tuesday, March 11
9:03 am Responded to Canby area for report of animal cruelty
7:59 pm Assisted CHP on Hwy 139 and CR 91 9:51 pm Traffic stop in Tulelake area; warning issued
Wednesday, March 12 Nothing to report.
Thursday, March 13 Nothing to report.
Friday, March 14
11:59 am Responded to Alturas Elementary for a juvenile issue
2:46 pm Assisted CHP on Hwy 139
3:02 pm Responded to Cal Pines area for a juvenile issue
4:02 pm Traffic stop initiated in Alturas; warning issued 4:49 pm Responded to 911 call in Tulelake; accidental call
Saturday, March 15
12:01am Responded to verbal altercation in MRE
2:00 pm Traffic stop initiated in Newell area; warning issued 2:25 pm Verbal altercation in MRE; subjects contacted
Sunday, March 16
8:22 am Responded to audible alarm on XL
Reservation 3:53 pm Traffic stop conducted in Alturas; warning issued 3:53 pm Traffic stop
conducted on Hwy 299; warning issued
Monday, March 17
2:07 am Multiple power outages reported
8:31 am Responded to report of dog-at-large in MRE
8:49 am Responded to a call of juvenile runaway in Alturas
9:34 am Responded to request for welfare check in Adin
9:37 am Responded to report of dog-at-large on Hwy 299
10:34 am Responded to report of trespass in Tulelake area
Why Roadwork From Modoc to Reno Is Nonstop
By: Staff Writer
Motorists traveling along U.S. Highway
395 and the rural roads stretching from Modoc County to Reno may have noticed a surge in construction activity. This flurry of development is part of a broader initiative to enhance connectivity across Northern California and northwestern Nevada. A statewide broadband expansion, critical power infrastructure upgrades, and highway improvements are all underway, aiming to modernize essential services and improve transportation routes in the region.
The California Public
Utilities Commission (CPUC) is leading a $1 billion broadband initiative aimed at bringing high-speed internet to underserved communities.
Funded through the Federal Funding Account (FFA) and Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, the effort is delivering fiberoptic infrastructure across 47 counties, including Modoc, Lassen, Sierra, and Plumas.
For Modoc County, this means fiber-optic installations along major roadways and through rural communities. Companies like Zayo Group and Frontier
Communications are expanding networks to provide reliable internet to homes, schools, and businesses.
Nevada’s Greenlink West Transmission Project, a 472-mile highvoltage transmission line, is also contributing to construction along U.S. 395. The project, which runs from Las Vegas to Reno, will modernize the power grid and support renewable energy infrastructure.
Additionally, Caltrans and the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) are working to improve road conditions affected by broadband and power
projects. Work includes widening shoulders, repaving highways, and upgrading safety barriers.
Motorists should anticipate lane closures, reduced speed limits, and occasional delays on U.S. 395 and connecting routes. While much of the broadband work is expected to continue into 2025, some power and road improvements could last longer.
Though the construction may be frustrating, these projects will bring faster internet, a stronger power grid, and improved highways—a long-term investment in Modoc County’s future.
Mother sheep with her baby in Fort Bidwell Photo by Lea Huetteman
Five Interesting Ways to Use Virtual Fences
By Janyne Little University of California
Cooperative Extension
Managing cattle across vast rangelands has long been a complex challenge for ranchers and land managers. Conventional barbed wire fencing methods, while effective, can be costly, laborintensive, and inflexible to operational and environmental changes. Virtual fencing technology has the potential to provide a more precise, adaptable, and cost-effective tool for livestock management.
The University of California Cooperative Extension in Modoc and Lassen Counties has partnered with federal land managers and local producers to implement virtual fencing for the first time in this area. Together, they have explored how this innovative tool can support a wide range of grazing management goals. Below are five creative ways this technology can be used to enhance livestock management and landscape stewardship.
1.Dynamic Grazing
Rotation and Precision
Grazing: Creating a Firebreak
The livestock grazed the small area intensively to reduce the fine fuels, with virtual fences effectively keeping the animals within the designated area. This practice helped enhance the area’s fire prevention and would have been very difficult to accomplish with traditional fencing.
2.Protecting Sensitive Areas: Riparian Exclusion Virtual fences provide an efficient way to protect sensitive ecological areas like springs, wetlands, and riparian zones, or other aspects such as cultural resources. Instead of constructing costly and cumbersome physical barriers, virtual fences can be drawn digitally around these spaces to keep livestock away from fragile vegetation and waterways. This helps reduce the risk of habitat loss and resource degradation, and can also benefit biodiversity. For
Virtual fences provide unmatched flexibility in managing livestock grazing, as they can be easily adjusted or moved with a few clicks of a button. Unlike traditional fences, virtual fences can adapt quickly to changes in producer needs or environmental conditions without the need for costly infrastructure changes. This allows for more effective rotational grazing, which helps prevent overuse of any one area, enhances long-term pasture productivity, and promotes soil heath. In this way, producers can balance livestock management with natural resource stewardship, promoting practices that ensure the long-term health of the landscape and their operation. Beyond rotational grazing, virtual fences can also be used for precision grazing tasks such as creating firebreaks or controlling invasive species. One way we’ve used this technology in northeast California was to create a fuel break using targeted grazing practices. We used a virtual fence to define a narrow designated area where wildfire-fueling invasive grasses had grown, and contained cattle there.
example, my team used virtual fences to rest a portion of a meadow that had been regularly grazed by livestock for many years, allowing the plants to recover.
3.Adapting to Changing Landscapes: Drought, Fire, and Flood
Virtual fencing is particularly valuable in landscapes that experience frequent change, such as flooding, drought, or wildfire. In landscapes where fires have altered the natural environment, traditional fencing is sometimes destroyed or rendered ineffective.
Virtual fences, on the other hand, can be quickly adapted or moved to accommodate shifting conditions. Virtual boundaries can help provide temporary protection to wildfire-affected areas that need time to recover while still allowing livestock to graze unburned areas within a pasture. In a large pasture that was partially
affected by wildfire, we used virtual fences to limit grazing within the burned area. Despite the livestock’s attraction to the fresh green grasses in the burned area, the virtual fences effectively kept the animals in a shrubbier, unburned area to protect post-fire growth.
4.Improved Animal Behavior Monitoring
One of the key benefits of virtual fence technology is its ability to provide real-time data on livestock behavior. Virtual fencing companies offer various data types, but all allow producers to monitor and track animal locations through GPS-enabled devices. This data can reveal patterns such as isolation from the herd or sudden changes in movement, which could indicate potential issues. Early detection of problems allows producers to investigate and intervene sooner, improving overall animal welfare. In addition,
Photos By Laura Snell
producers can more easily stay connected to the wellbeing of their herd, even when they are far away, which provides surprising peace of mind. In our experience with virtual fencing, we were able to quickly recognize potential problems when livestock began to display irregular movement patterns. When a number of cattle breached the virtual fence boundary simultaneously, we knew something wasn’t quite right and set out to check in on them. Sure enough, a visit to the field showed that a pipe had broken and ceased to supply the stock water trough, so the animals had set out in search of water. The water source was quickly repaired and the issue was resolved.
5.Efficient Herd Management
Virtual fencing technology offers numerous ways to streamline operations, saving both time and money. One of the key benefits is its
ability to make pasture transitions less laborintensive through passive herding. Virtual fences are designed to permit oneway passage: Livestock are only given an auditory or electric stimulus when they pass one way through the fence and not the other. This enables wayward cows that have passed out of an enclosure to come back in. But in addition to keeping cattle within a designated area, my team realized that the fences could be used to allow livestock to passively wander into an enclosure. By using a series of oneway virtual fences in this way over time to slowly move their livestock’s location, a producer can save time in transitioning a herd to the next pasture. In addition, the real-time location tracking of each animal makes end-ofseason gathering more efficient, eliminating the need for lengthy searches for wayward animals on an open range.
▪
▪ Social Worker IV (A): $4,758.00 - $7,380.00 per month
▪ Social
Dr. John C. Buckhouse, professor emeritus at Oregon State University, beloved husband, father, step-father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, neighbor and friend, has passed away at the age of 80. John was raised in high desert climates in Tonopah, Nevada and Canby, California. He graduated from Modoc Union High School and earned his undergraduate degree from UC Davis. He achieved a PhD from Utah State University in Watershed Sciences. His childhood adventures on his horse, Rojo, and the abundant wilderness and natural beauty of Modoc County sounds almost like tall tales of a legend. 2025 marks 50 years of John’s connection to Oregon State University. Along the way, he influenced the lives of thousands of students, wrote over 250 scientific papers, and tackled some of the most critical and controversial topics in natural resources policy and management.
He spent a half century in what he called the “radical middle” helping people realize that you could create land conditions that were simultaneously good for the environment and good for cattle grazing. He collaborated with ranchers and researchers to be the first to scientifically address water quality and quantity associated with juniper encroachment.
This large-scale experiment led to restoring water flows in two watersheds in the High Desert of Eastern Oregon.
Dr. Buckhouse was recognized for exemplary lifetime contributions in range management research and education. He was a leader in his field, serving as president of the International Society of Range Management (SRM) and as the National Program Leader for Rangelands for USDA CSREES in Washington, DC. Throughout his career, he never gave up on the power of education, whether at OSU, the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, the Warm Springs Reservation, or in Tunisia.
After retirement he stayed active in SRM, traveled to certify sustainably raised beef, and led eco-tours to raise funds for the Albany Library and Women of Vision. John believed strongly in giving to his community. He and Vicki enjoyed 6 years volunteering at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. They loved traveling the
Fay Humphrey Hawes
August 6, 1931 - March 15, 2025
Fay Humphrey Hawes was born August 6, 1931 in Oakland, CA (literally on the hospital steps) to Richard “Dick” and Mary Humphrey. She left us on March 15, 2025, with her family at her side.
world in small group tours, embracing new cultures, and making new friends. Together they generously created opportunities for loved-ones at home to expand their horizons as well.
John was a life-long teacher and a life-long learner. He and Vicki raised the children with a model for never fearing a mistake, as mistakes are merely learning opportunities.
He nurtured curiosity and he taught his children, and all those who saw him as a father figure, how to reflect on growth.
Watching him in the field, was to see John Buckhouse at his full power. He could read the rangeland like others might be a book. He could bring people together who started the day identifying as ideological adversaries and yet, after just a few hours walking together, they would soften their expressions and almost always start to see some possibility of common interests. It’s hard to deny the presence of common ground when you’ve spent several hours walking on it.
Over the last few months, John received notes and calls from friends and former students who almost universally described the experience of spending time with him as life-changing. He had a way of making people feel special and welcoming them into the family. His gentle heart and superior storytelling will be missed.
John would often end the day with a circle, in which everyone present had a chance to share something they had learned that day. If you knew John, then please circle up with us one more time, and share with someone you care about something you’ve learned from John or something you learned today. John would have loved that.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Vicki Lynne Buckhouse, sisters (also of Modoc County) Susanne Robbins and Patricia Fay, 3 surviving children and 1 who is showing him everything glorious on the other side, their spouses, 9 grandchildren, 3 siblings-in-law, 2 nieces and 2 nephews and their families. John was surrounded by family as they sang to take him home just hours before he peacefully passed.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 4pm on May 10th at the Philomath Scout Lodge. Donations in John’s honor: Corvallis - Benton County Public Library or Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport, OR.
Fay spent her early childhood in Santa Rosa, CA and then her parents moved to Alturas, where Dick started working at Surprise Valley Electric as a generator operator. With the outbreak of WWII, Mary and the kids moved to Los Gatos to live with Mary’s mother. Dick signed up to go to Midway Island as a Civilian contractor for the Army Corp of Engineers. He was there when the Japanese attacked Midway and helped the other workers rescue the wounded pilots who were unable to fly. He soon was sent back to the states, out of harm’s way.
The family came back to Santa Rosa for a time and then back to Alturas where Fay attended MUHS where she was the Senior Class President of the class of 1950.
Fay loved anything horses. Before moving back to Alturas, she rode in a drill team in Santa Rosa and performed at the Cow Palace in San Francisco. Fay kept her horse in the family garage and spent some nights sleeping with her horse. Many a night she would ride her horse all night long and be home in time for school. One of her favorite places was riding to Dry Creek Basin to visit Jess and Opal Russell. Fay was also a jockey, riding quarter horses and thoroughbreds for Dick Lewis racing. Fay was crowned Modoc County Fair Queen as a junior in high school. Beta Sigma Phi sponsored her and one had to buy a ticket to vote. Ticket sales were highly encouraged by the women to be able to crown an “Alturas girl” as Queen. Fay was recognized as an expert horsewoman and won the quarter horse races during the Fair. Members of the Sorority who rode with her in the rodeo parade were Marie Burmister, Madeline Bannister, Mary Woodward and Mirley Smith. After graduating from
MUHS Fay worked as a desk Clerk at the Modoc Hotel. She then worked at the Alturas Police Dept., where she met a new patrolman named Ernie Hawes. They hit it off when Ernie would haul hay in the patrol car trunk for Fay’s horses. Ernie, Jack McCombs and Spike Humphrey rode Harleys. So did Fay, and they would ride together and on occasion get chased by the cops. Fay was slower and would be the one to get caught. When Ernie got a new Harley, he had Fay take the registration to the DMV for him. Fay registered the bike in her own name so Ernie decided they better get married so he could ride his bike.
Ernie and Fay were married August 11, 1951, and started a family. Children, Christine, Sherron and Karen, Roger, Linda, Larry and Wayne soon followed. Fay was always the mom with the full car of kids going to swim meets, little league games, track meets and cheerleading camp.
Fay always wanted to be a nurse and started her medical career at Modoc Medical Center in 1962 as a Nurse’s Aide. She worked many years at MMC as a Nurse’s Aide, OB Aide, Central Supply Tech and surgery Scrub Tech. She finished her medical career as a MA at Dr. Richert’s office. Fay is preceded in death by her husband Ernie, parents Dick and Mary Humphrey, sister Shirley (Louie) DeMaria, brother “Spike” Humphrey, daughter Sherron and grandson Jeffrey Wellemeyer and great granddaughter Krista Wellemeyer. Fay is survived by Christine, Karen (Gary) Hays, Roger (Elise) Hawes, Linda (Richard) Wellemeyer, Larry (Tammy) Hawes and Wayne (Diana) Hawes. She and Ernie were blessed with eleven grandchildren and 16 ½ great grandchildren. She was always involved in their activities. Mom/ grandma is already so dearly missed.
A private family celebration will be held at a later date.
Richard “Dick” Caldwell, 86, of Redding (formerly of Alturas), CA passed away on March 13, 2025 in the loving presence of his family.
Dick was born August 14, 1938, in Alturas California, to Everett (Bud) and Rose Caldwell of Canby, California. Dick grew up on the family ranch and attended Modoc High School, where he met Jolene Ballard. They dated from his freshman year and later married upon graduation.
Jolene was the love of his life, and they were married for 68 years. After attending college in Redding and Sacramento, Dick and Jolene returned to Alturas, where Dick went to work for Alturas Building Materials for Francis and Josephine Ballard. In 1973, Dick and Jolene purchased Caldwell Distributing and operated it until his retirement in 1988. Not one to stay idle, Dick came out of retirement and went to work for the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office where he was a Deputy Sheriff working in the jail, a Bailiff for the Honorable Judge Barclay, and transported inmates to various prisons in California. He was very kind to the inmates and was known as the “hamburger guy,” often stopping to buy them hamburgers along the way. Dick was dedicated to community involvement. He was a longstanding member of the Alturas Volunteer Fire Department and a charter member of the Alturas 20/30 Club. He coached the Little League Creamery baseball team and took home the championship trophy seven out of the fourteen years he coached, making his team the one to beat! He was a member of the “Chain Gang” for Modoc High School home football games and enjoyed supporting and rooting for the Braves. He took part in the Warner Mountain Tribe Ride and was instrumental in starting the Warner Mountain Rodeo in Cedarville, California, where he served as president for several years. Dick and Jolene attended many rodeos throughout the US and Canada. To say Dick loved the outdoors is an understatement. He was an avid hunter, which took him on many hunting trips with his grandfather, father, son, grandson, son-in-law, and friends. Dick would often say the journey was as important as bagging the game.
Dick also enjoyed stream fishing and catching trout at Eagle Lake Reservoir. Another favorite activity was riding his ATV and touring all areas of Modoc
County with family and friends.
Dick loved sports, especially the Golden State Warriors, Cincinnati Reds, and San Francisco 49ers. He was in the stands at the NFC 1981 Championship game and witnessed “the Catch” between Joe Montana and Dwight Clark. Dick and Jolene were Cincinnati Red’s Spring Training season ticket holders for many years, spending the warm winter months in Mesa, Arizona. A highlight was when Dick was chosen to throw out the first pitch. Dick also enjoyed going to Sprint Car Races with family and friends.
Dick and Jolene enjoyed traveling. Dick made it to all 50 states in the US, mostly while towing his fifth wheel. One year, their fifth wheel was loaded onto a rail car, and they toured Mexico. Dick and Jolene also traveled internationally when they won a national contest for Schlitz beer.
Dick’s greatest love was spending time with family and friends at his cabin in Jess Valley. After hiking, fishing, watching John Wayne movies, and listening to Merle Haggard, he sat down with friends and family and played cards. He will always be remembered fondly for his fiercely competitive nature and for his positive “go get em” attitude. Dick gave it his all in everything he did, a value he cherished and passed on to his children. Dick is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Jolene; his four children, Karen, Vicki, Rick (Lisa), and Pam (Dave); his six grandchildren, Shauna, Adam, Kaylee (Curtis), Collin (Shelby), Abbey, and Mackenzie; his three great-grandchildren, Taylor, Charlie, and Kinsley. Dick is also survived by his sister, Carolyn (Cookie) Sloss and many nieces and nephews.
A graveside memorial followed by a celebration of life is planned for March 29th in Alturas, California. The gravesite services will be at 1:00 pm and the Celebration of Life will be following at Sacred Heart Hall 507 E 4th St, Alturas, CA 96101.
Dr. John C. Buckhouse
Richard “Dick” Caldwell
Modoc County Applauds Full Water Allocation for Klamath Project
By: Shaelene Tims
For the first time since 2019, the Bureau of Reclamation has announced a full water allocation for the Klamath Project, ensuring local ranchers and farmers will receive the irrigation water they need. Modoc County officials are celebrating the decision, calling it a significant step for the region’s agricultural stability.
The Klamath Project, a federally managed water system, supplies irrigation to farmers across the Klamath Basin while also providing water to the Tule Lake and Lower Klamath National Wildlife
Refuges. Established in the early 20th century, the project has converted approximately 225,000 acres of rangeland into farmland, supporting local agriculture. The primary water sources include Upper Klamath Lake, the Klamath River, Clear Lake Reservoir, Link River, Lost River, and Tule Lake. Modoc County Board of Supervisors said, ‘The announcement by the Bureau of Reclamation that there will be full deliveries of irrigation water this summer is welcome news to the farmers of Modoc County in the Tulelake Basin. An early announcement allows
the farming community sufficient time to plan for the seasons crops that can now be planted. This welcome news is not only good news to the farmers, but also the waterfowl that call Tulelake home, and to all the families that are
Historical Society chooses new officers, announces activities
The Modoc County Historical Society recently chose officers for 2025.
Leading the Historical Society will be Jennifer Engel, president; Claude Singleton, vice president; Barbie Read, secretary; Olene Grivel, treasurer; and Joan Barclay, facebook administrator and newsletter Editor.
The Historical Society is beginning to work on the 2025 annual journal.
Along with stories and articles, the journal includes an “In Memoriam” section for obituaries. This information is vital to have in print for historical records. Donations are
requested in order to publish an obituary. If you’re interested in having an obituary of a relative or friend added to the journal, please contact the historical society at (530) 233-2944 for further details.
Anticipating the opening of the Modoc County Museum in early May, the group is putting together a display of items from the recently opened time capsule that was in the Modoc County High School Gym. The capsule was placed in 1974, and a new one was sealed for opening in 50 years. The museum has been closed for a year due to construction
at the Veterans Memorial Park.
The group also announced this year’s young historian essay contest that helps develop skills in research and writing, and an appreciation of the people who settled this county.
Entrants must be age 10 to 14 by March 1st for the Junior Historian contest, and age 15 to 21 by March 1st for the Young Historian contest. They must be a resident of Modoc County or attend a Modoc school or home school. The essay must be at least 750 words of original content. Entries are due April 30 and must be submitted
employed by the farmers.’
In recent years, water allocations have been limited due to drought and competing environmental demands. Farmers have faced uncertainty as they balanced irrigation needs with conservation efforts
for endangered species such as the Lost River sucker, Shortnose sucker, and the threatened coho salmon. With irrigation demand reaching up to 400,000 acre-feet in some years, the availability of water remains a top concern for the region.
Officials emphasized that this year’s full allocation is possible due to increased water storage in Upper Klamath Lake and favorable conditions that allow the Bureau of Reclamation to meet irrigation needs while maintaining ecological balance in the Klamath Watershed. The early announcement gives
farmers and ranchers time to plan their crop rotations, livestock management, and other essential operations.
“This decision restores hope and reinforces that agriculture matters. We look forward to continuing this partnership.” another quote from the board said. Modoc County officials extended their appreciation to the Bureau of Reclamation and the Department of the Interior for their commitment to the region’s water users and economic security. They reiterated their dedication to working collaboratively to ensure fair and balanced water management in the years ahead.
in the following format: Name, address, age, and school attending or attended. Full submission details are at facebook. com/ModocHistory. Awards of $500 and $250 are awarded to first and second
place winners in each age bracket.
The Historical Society meets monthly on the second Wednesday at noon at the Modoc County Museum, 600 S. Main St., Alturas. All are welcome.
Annual membership dues for individuals are $25 and families are $30, this includes the newsletter and the annual journal. Watch for more activities at facebook.com/ ModocHistory.
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Thursday March 20th
MARCH MADNESS at the BOOKWORM
It is March Madness at the Bookworm next to the Alturas Library on 3 rd Street. Buy any book and get another for equal or lesser value for FREE! We have quality used books in all categories, music, CDs, DVDs, large print books and best sellers! Sales benefits the library.
Friday March 21st
SENIOR TEACH BINGO – EVERY FRIDAY
SENIOR BINGO at the VFW Building, So. Main St. in Alturas is on Fridays! Doors open at 10a.m. Potluck Lunch will be served at noon. Bring your favorite dish! Buy-in: First Packet $10 each with each additional packet for $5. All players over 18 years old are welcome! Thank you for supporting our Seniors!
Sunday March 23rd
Sunday Services for Berean Calvary
Church
Sunday School starts at 10 AM with a lesson on Sanctification. The Sunday morning service starts at 11 AM with a sermon titled “I’m Still Here.” Sunday night service starts at 5 PM with a special night of singing, so bring your favorite song selection and see you there
Monday March 24th
Alturas Country Jam
Alturas Country Jam is Mondays from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Senior Corner
T.E.A.C.H., Inc.
Senior Services 906 W. 4th Street, Alturas (530) 233-5556
CENTER OPEN
Open from 9:15 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday. Closed on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Services are for Seniors 60 years or older.
Please call a day in advance for lunch reservations.
LUNCH SERVICES: Salad Bar is served at 11:30 a.m. Lunch is served at 12:00 p.m. Meals on Wheels Homebound Senior Meals will continue to be delivered. Please call for mor information.
TRANSPORTATION
SERVICES: Bus services for Seniors are available through Sage Stage. You can utilize this service by obtaining a no-cost voucher from the T.E.A.C.H., Inc. Senior Services office.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Fridays: 3/21, 3/28–BINGO: 12:00 p.m. –3:00 p.m. at the VFW Hall. Café 906 Cafeteria is OPEN. T.E.A.C.H., Inc. Senior Service Office is located in the Senior Center at 906
West 4th Street. The T.E.A.C.H., Inc. office is located at 112 East 2nd Street in Alturas. Access Social Security
The Social Security Administration is no longer coming to Alturas. All Social Security Services have been transferred to the Susanville office. The representatives will no longer be traveling to Modoc County. Please see some additional information for the public on how to obtain services related to social security.
You can contact them using their website, HYPERLINK “http:// www.socialsecurity.gov” www.socialsecurity.gov, or call toll-free at 1-800722-1213. The nearest offices are located at 1960 S. Oregon Street, Yreka, CA 96097Phone: 1-888-366-6145 and 2603 Riverside Drive, Susanville, CA 96130 - Phone: 1-800772-1213.
HICAP services help seniors
Become a Volunteer with HICAP PSA 2 Medicare Counseling & Advocacy Program helping the Senior population. With our training program you will become a registered Counselor with the State of California Department of Aging.
at the Federated Church on S. East Street in Alturas. Donations are accepted to help with supplies and for the Church. Come out and join the fun!
Tuesday March 25th
Modoc Crazy Quilters
Modoc Crazy Quilters gather every Tuesday at the Federated Church from 9 am-3pm. Come and go as you can, bring a project or just come visit.
Humane Society Thrift Store and Kitty shelter
Visit your local Humane Society Thrift Store and kitty shelter. Lots of beautiful new items for your consideration and of course some of the most beautiful kitties all ready for their new best friend. Open Wednesday to Friday 10-2 and every other Saturday 10-1
Wednesday March 26th
Faith Bible Church Awana Club
Faith Bible Church Awana Club meets tonight from 6:00 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. at Faith Baptist Ministry Center, 810 West Carlos St., Alturas.
Ages 3 yrs. through 6th grade. Contact 530-233-2015 for more information.
Thursday March 27th
The Senior Citizens Valley 50 Club (SCV50C) Lunch
The Senior Citizens Valley 50 Club (SCV50C) receives lunches every Tuesday and Thursday at the Senior Center in Cedarville. Lunch starts at noon, but conversation starts around 11:30. If you are in your
We need dedicated individuals in Modoc County Call our Redding location for an application at 530-2230999.
HICAP, (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) provides unbiased services to help seniors decide what is best for their individual needs. All services are provided at no charge. Let HICAP agency help you understand Medicare, compare private Medicare Supplemental Plans, explore longterm care insurance options, assist you in enrolling in Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program, learn about saving money on your prescriptions, clarify your rights as a healthcare consumer, prepare Medicare appeals or challenge claim denials and learn about government assistance programs. The PSA Area Agency on Aging provides this service with trained volunteer counselors who are registered by the California Dept. of Aging. HICAP is not affiliated with any insurance company or agency; nor does it sell, endorse or recommend any specific insurance. For help with Medicare questions, call (530)
223-0999 or 1-800434-0222 to locate the nearest office. CENTER OPEN; Suggested Donations:
Seniors Regular Meal$4.00 - Non-seniors$8.00
Seniors Salad Bar - $3.00 - Non-seniors$5.00
Seniors Special Meal - $6.00 - Non-seniors$9.00 THIS WEEK’S MENU:
Thursday: Mar. 20 – Polish Dog with Sauerkraut, vegetable beef soup, green beans, whole wheat bun, salad, banana and milk.
Friday: Mar. 21Closed.
Monday: Mar. 24 –Closed.
Tuesday: Mar. 25 –Hawaiian ham and rice, mixed vegetables, whole wheat bread, salad, peaches and milk.
Wednesday: Mar. 26 – Closed.
Thursday: Mar. 27 –Ham, Cream of Potato Soup, peas and carrots, whole wheat bread, salad, spice pear bread and milk.
Friday: Mar. 28Closed.
Thank you for your support!
*Menus are subject to change without prior notice.
50’s we ask for a small donation for lunch. 60 and over is free. You can look at the menu TEACH in Alturas posts for the week in the paper for Tuesday and Thursday lunch or stop by and pick up a monthly menu at our center. Menus are also posted on the post office bulletin boards in the valley.
We also have a potluck the 3rd Wednesday of every month. So come on down for some good food, conversation and laughs. Hope to see you there soon.
To Come:
TEACH Adult Education
TEACH Adult Education is offering a Quickbooks course. For more information please call 530-233-539
Entrepreneurship 101 - Do You Have What It Takes? and Startup BasicsWhat You Need to Know
Aspiring entrepreneurs and side hustlers are invited to an in-person workshop series beginning April 2nd at the Modoc College Center in the Bear Creek Mall. The first session, Entrepreneurship 101 - Do You Have What It Takes? and Startup Basics - What You Need to Know, will run from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, snacks provided. Led by Eva Shepherd-Nicoll of ChicoStart, this workshop will provide valuable insights and practical tips for starting a business. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and gain the tools you need to succeed in entrepreneurship. Contact Savanna via email with any questions savanna@ teachinc.org.
SAVE OUR SERVICES RALLY
Our SAVE OUR SERVICES RALLY on March 11 at the Four Corners in Alturas, CA was a success. We received a lot of thumbs ups and HONKS. Only a few negative comments.
We were happy to have about 10 people from Cedarville join us. We had extra signs, enough for everyone. Our goal was to raise awareness of the serious possibility of losing funding for Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP, and Social Security. Without the Modoc Medical Center with its Clinic, Hospital, ER and the Warnerview Long term Care Facility, our town could become a ghost town. Many losing their jobs would move away and local stores would lose customers.
Thank you to all who showed support!
We will be holding an important event in Alturas, Saturday, April 5- called HANDS OFF. Stay tuned for more details.
Modoc Braves Settle the Score
After a tough start to their season, Modoc wasted no time bouncing back on Saturday.
Following a rough 13-2 loss to Quincy in their opener, the Braves turned things around in dominant fashion, securing a 15-7 victory over the Trojans in the rematch. This was a true revenge game for Modoc, and their sharp offensive performance made all the difference. Sam McCandless was outstanding, reaching
Modoc Lady Braves Struggle in Season Opener Against Lassen
The Modoc Lady Braves softball team faced a tough start to their season, falling to the Lassen Grizzlies in a doubleheader Tuesday afternoon. Modoc suffered a 15-0 loss in the first game and a 10-0 defeat in the second, struggling both offensively and defensively.
A shortened practice season contributed to the challenges, as many Modoc players were still competing in basketball playoffs and unable to train ahead of the
softball opener. The lack of preparation showed, with difficulties on the mound, passed balls, and defensive errors adding to the struggles against Lassen.
Despite the rough start, the Lady Braves are looking to rebound. With additional practice time and competition in the upcoming Biggs Tournament this weekend, Modoc aims to refine its game and gain momentum before league play begins.
base in all five of his plate appearances while tallying four stolen bases, three runs, and four RBI. His speed on the basepaths has been a game-changer, as he has now recorded at least one stolen base in each of his last seven
games dating back to last season. Colin Jeffers also played a key role, reaching base in all four of his plate appearances while adding three RBI, one stolen base, and a double.
The Braves displayed discipline at the plate,
striking out only once while Quincy struggled with eight strikeouts of their own. With the win, Modoc evened their record at 1-1, while Quincy also moved to 1-1 following the split.
The Braves carried their
momentum into their next game on March 6, dominating Tulelake with a 10-0 shutout. Quincy also quickly returned to action, edging out Loyalton with a close 6-5 victory.
Got something special you no longer use? Sell it in the classifieds. It may just be the perfect item to fill somebody else’s need.
135 N Main St. Alturas, CA 96101 (530) 233-2632
www.modocrecord.com • nancy@modocmedia.com
Modoc County Supervisor Urges Action as Wolf Attacks Threaten Rural Safety
By Shaelene Tims Modoc
County and the surrounding North Eastern California counties, the state’s growing wolf problem has dominated community discussions for months. Frustration is mounting after yet another calf was killed at a Bieber ranch, a report that quickly spread on Facebook.
“People need to understand this won’t be fixed overnight,” Modoc County Supervisor Ned Coe said. “It’s a process— years of carefully laid-out steps. But these efforts have helped ensure the wolf issue is being taken seriously at higher levels of government.”
The killing follows Modoc County’s recent declaration of a state of
emergency. “The purpose of this proclamation is really to make people aware—to send a message—and it’s gotten the attention of the powers that be,” Coe said. He and neighboring county officials are working to schedule a meeting with California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot. Crowfoot, who has led the state’s conservation and environmental efforts since 2019, advises Gov. Gavin Newsom as a member of his cabinet. Coe also voiced growing concerns about public safety. He described a ranch in Jess Valley where employees no longer allow preschool-aged children to play outside because wolves have preyed on
animals as close as 100 yards from the home. The same ranch reported losing four cattle and one sheep to wolf attacks.
“That’s a human safety issue,” Coe said. “When families no longer feel safe in their own backyards, we’ve crossed into dangerous territory.”
Reports from residents reflect rising unease. A Valley Falls resident
said her children are no longer allowed to play in the snow outside their home. In another case, game cameras repeatedly captured a wolf approaching and marking the family’s fence posts, raising fears of a potential encounter. Coe said. “These are rural towns where people expect some level of security. Yet now
February Modocers of the Month.
Sarah Diven
Mrs. Sarah Diven is one of our wonderful counseling staff who help manage our collegebound students making sure they complete their tasks. She is also the mother of two highschoolers. When asked what his favorite thing about her is, Ken LaBaw (Senior) said “Everything from how nice she is to how she gives me food, and lets me cool down from my stressful day”. Thanks for supporting our students!
Savannah Connors, 12th Grade Savannah is a Senior who will be missed next year. She will always give her all in activities. She is so kind to others and excels in and out of the classroom. She is inspiring to other students and serves as our ASB President, as well as other leadership roles on our campus and in our youth community. When we asked her peers, they had this to say; “She is very hard working and a good student. She is very outgoing and friendly.” We are so thankful to have Savannah in the MHS Brave Family!
Kaitlin
Nield, 10th Grade
Kaitlin is a hardworking and determined highschooler who participates in academic decathlon and band. She is a very talented and gifted individual who is very courageous. When asked about her, an anonymous peer responded with, “She is so nice and always seems so smart in class, and is a very hard worker”. We are lucky to have Kaitlin as an MHS Brave!
Spring Awakens: Nature’s Season of Renewal Begins
As winter’s chill fades and the first buds of spring begin to bloom, the natural world is bursting into life. Across fields, forests, and backyards, animals are welcoming their newborns, trees are unfurling their fresh leaves, and the days are slowly warming in preparation for the full splendor of the season.
The arrival of spring signals a time of renewal, and nowhere is this more evident than in the animal kingdom. Deer give birth to their spotted fawns, rabbits welcome their first litters of the year, and birds are busy tending to their nests. From tiny ducklings paddling in ponds to playful fox kits exploring the safety of their dens, the landscape is teeming with new life. Pollinators
like bees and butterflies have also begun their essential work, visiting the first flowers of the season to ensure the cycle of growth continues. Meanwhile, the weather is shifting as longer days bring milder temperatures. Though chilly mornings may still linger, the sun climbs higher in the sky, promising the warmth and vibrancy that define the heart of spring. Soon, cherry blossoms and wildflowers will paint the countryside with color, and gentle breezes will carry the fresh scent of blooming greenery. In fact, forecasts show that next week, temperatures are expected to reach the mid-70s, offering a perfect opportunity to fully embrace the season’s warmth.
For many, spring is a season of hope and energy. Gardeners and farmers eagerly prepare their soil, outdoor enthusiasts dust off their hiking boots, and families enjoy the return of sunny picnics and weekend adventures. The season’s gentle awakening serves as a reminder of nature’s resilience and the beauty of new beginnings. As we embrace the changing season, there’s much to look forward to: the return of songbirds’ melodies, the delight of seeing wildlife thrive, and the promise of even warmer days ahead. So step outside, take a deep breath of fresh air, and celebrate the arrival of spring—nature’s most joyous season.
they can’t even let their children play outside. We chose to raise our families here so kids could enjoy this lifestyle.”
Compounding concerns is the belief that official wolf population counts are inaccurate.
“The official count for the wolf population in California is a gross underestimate,” Coe said. “That creates other problems. CDFW needs to recognize people’s fears and reassure them that they have the right to protect themselves if their safety is at risk.”
Coe said the ultimate goal is to have wolves federally delisted from the Endangered Species Act. However, he warned that even if that happens, California’s endangered
Josh Minto, 9th Grade
Josh is a well-mannered young man with fantastic academic and athletic prowess; he is also loved by his peers. When asked what their favorite thing about Josh is they responded with “I like how bright his attitude is, he is smart, and his smile lightens up the room. He is quite joyful, caring and a studious kid at heart!” -Anonymous
Kenzie Diven, 11th Grade
Kenzie is a Junior who excels in sports and academics. She participates in soccer, basketball, and track all while maintaining her stellar GPA. When asked about Kenzie, Allie responded with, “She is always smiling. She is funny and determined to get her work done and is an amazing friend.”
species protections would still apply.
“That’s why updating the Wolf Management Plan is so important,” Coe said. “We need a provision that allows permits to deal with problem animals like OR-158—a wolf that showed zero fear of humans and was surviving solely by killing cattle. In that case, the federal government issued a permit to eliminate the wolf, which was necessary to protect the livestock industry.”
Coe acknowledged that progress will take time.
“People need to understand this is a process,” he said. “Years of steps and strategic planning—but the wheels are turning, and we need to stay engaged.”
Snow day at Fandango Pass Photo by Lea Huetteman
BLM approves 2025 Red Rock Lakes nuisance wild horse Removal
The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Applegate Field Office has approved the 2025 Red Rock Lakes nuisance wild horse removal under a Categorical Exclusion (CX), according to a decision signed by Field Manager Craig R. Drake. The decision, identified as DOI-BLM-CA-N0202025-0002-CX, is part of the agency’s effort to manage wild horse
populations and maintain ecological balance on public lands. Public access to documents The Categorical Exclusion and Decision Record (DR) documents are available online through the BLM’s ePlanning website at ePlanning BLM. Members of the public with questions or those seeking to submit an
appeal can contact Megan Banwarth at the BLM Applegate Field Office, located at 708 W. 12th St., Alturas, CA 96101, or via email at mbanwarth@ blm.gov. Regional impact
The Applegate Field Office operates within Interior Region 10: California-Great Basin, which includes parts of California, Nevada, and Oregon.
The removal of nuisance wild horses from Red Rock Lakes is intended to address ecological concerns while supporting land conservation and management efforts.
For more information, visit the BLM Applegate Field Office website at www.blm.gov/office/ applegate-field-office.
Weekend Weather: Cold, Windy Start Before Warmer Days Ahead
By Staff Writer
A cold front moving inland will bring unsettled weather through the weekend before warmer conditions return next week, according to the National Weather Service (NOAA).
Thursday, March 20
Expect mostly cloudy skies with a slight chance of afternoon snow. Highs will reach the low to mid-40s, with southwest winds around 10-15 mph. Snow chances increase overnight, with lows near 30°F.
Friday, March 21 Snow showers are
likely in the morning, transitioning to rain in the afternoon as snow levels rise to 4,600 feet. Highs will be in the low to mid-40s. A few lingering rain and snow showers are possible overnight.
Saturday, March 22 Cloudy conditions continue, with a chance of rain and snow showers in the morning. Afternoon temperatures will reach the mid-40s to lower 50s. The evening will be mostly cloudy with lows in the lower 30s.
Sunday, March 23 –Monday, March 24 Skies will begin to
clear, bringing a warming trend. Highs will climb to the mid-50s to lower 60s, while overnight lows remain in the lower 30s to low 40s.
Tuesday, March 25 –Wednesday, March 26
Mostly clear skies will bring the warmest temperatures of the week, with highs ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s. Overnight lows will be in the mid-30s to lower 40s. Modoc County Outlook
Higher elevations in the Warner Mountains could see 2-3 inches of snow Thursday night, with
gusty winds up to 40 mph. Roads in rural areas may become slick, especially in the early mornings. By Sunday, Modoc County will join the region’s warming trend, with highs in the 50s and lows in the 30s.
While coastal winds will be strong Thursday, NOAA reports the most significant gusts will be in higher elevations. Rain and snow chances taper off by Sunday, giving way to drier conditions next week.
by Lea Huetteman
Photo
Photos of carport or shed that landed over in the park
Photos by Mark Pence
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME STATEMENT
File No. 2025-011
Exp: February 24, 2030
Original
The following person is doing business as: Body Oasis Health & Wellness, 112 East 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101. Phone: 530-249-5352.
Registered Owner: (1) Jonathan Tyler Banister, 112 East 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101. Phone: 530-249-5352.
This business is conducted by: An Individual.
The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on February 25, 2025.
I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct (a registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime).
/s/ Jonathan Tyler Banister, Owner
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Modoc County on February 25, 2025. Published in the Modoc County Record on February 27, March 6, 13 and 20, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT
File No. 2025-010
Exp: January 16, 2030
Original
The following person is doing business as: RITE AID #6353, 432 North Main Street, Alturas, CA 96101. Phone:1-717-761-2633. Mailing address: 200 Newberry Commons, Etters, PA 17319.
Registered Owner: (1) Thrifty Payless, Inc., 200 Newberry Commons, Etters, PA 17319. Phone: 1-717-761-2633.
This business is conducted by: A Corporation.
The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on February 14, 2025. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct (a registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime).
/s/ Byron Purcell, Chief Executive Officer
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Modoc County on February 14, 2025. Published in the Modoc County Record on March 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2025.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No. 2025-006 Exp: January 20, 2030
Original The following person is doing business as: Golden’s Bar and Restaurant LLC, 575 Main Street, Cedarville, CA 96104. Mailing address: PO Box 96, Cedarville, CA 96104. Phone: 530-6402310.
Registered Owner: (1) Golden’s Bar and Restaurant LLC, PO Box 96, Cedarville, CA 96104. Phone: 530-640-2310. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company.
The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on January 21, 2025.
I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct (a registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime).
/s/ Sheri Cockrell, Owner
This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Modoc County on
January 21, 2025. Published in the Modoc County Record on March 13, 20, 27 and April 3, 2025.
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS
NAME FILE NUMBER: 2024015
The fictitious business name was filed in Modoc County on February 20, 2024. The person(s) have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Name of Business (es): Ox Ranch Saddle Shop, 1920 Co. Rd. 38, Eagleville, CA 96110. County: Modoc. REGISTERED
OWNER(S): (1) Michelle Grove, PO Box 34, Eagleville, CA 96110. Business was conducted by: An Individual.
I declare that all information in this
statement is true and correct (a registrant who declared as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime).
SIGNATURE OF REGISTRANT: /s/ Michelle L. Grove, Owner. Print name of person signing. If corporation, also print corporate title of officer. If LLC, also print title of officer or manager. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Modoc County on March 12, 2025
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS COPY IS A CORRECT COPY OF THE ORIGINAL STATEMENT ON FILE IN MY OFFICE. Filed by: /s/ Julie L. Ihrke, Deputy Clerk. Published in the Modoc County Record on March 20, 27, April 3 and 10, 2025.
T’ai Chi Chih
Serenity
Cedarville
Class Tuesday, April 1
Offering two classes starting at 3:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. weekly at the Surprise Valley Community Church Social Hall, 405 Bonner Street, Cedarville.
alturas
Class Wednesday, April 2
Offering two classes starting at 3:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. weekly at the Federated Church Social Hall, 307 East 1st Street, Alturas.
Instructor: Kay Minto
For more information, call 530-279-2410
$80 For Eight Week Session
MODOC COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS SUMMARY OF ORDINANCES
On March 11, 2025, the Modoc County Board of Supervisors enacted the following ordinance: Ordinance No. 221-L adopted an Ordinance amending Title 15 Building Regulations, Chapter 15.01 Construction Codes, Administration, Section 15.01.120 Design loads of the Modoc County Code.
RESULT: APPROVED (UNANIMOUS)
MOVER: Kathie Rhoads, Supervisor District III
SECONDER: Casey Cockrell, Supervisor District IV
AYES: Ned Coe, Supervisor District I, Shane Starr, Supervisor District II, Kathie Rhoads, Supervisor District III, Casey Cockrell, Supervisor District IV, Geri Byrne, Supervisor District V FULL AND COMPLETE COPIES OF THE ORDINANCE ARE AVAILABLE AT THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK OF THE BOARD, 204 S. COURT ST., ROOM 204, ALTURAS, CALIFORNIA 96101, TELEPHONE NUMBER (530) 233-6201. /s/ T. Martinez, Clerk of the Board
Published in the Modoc County Record on March 20, 2025.
CLASSIFIEDS
a nnouncements
DIANE DOLAN-
PARRISH-
WHALEN: You have chosen not to appeal the judgement against you; therefore, you are legally required to immediately pay the $10,090.00 you owe. You stated in court and in writing that you would comply with the judge’s decision. Please remit payment to: PO Box 2, Cedarville, CA 96104. (13Feb/ TFN)
SPRING SHOP
HOP - Over TEN
Local Vendors.
Saturday, March 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. inside the Niles Hotel. Come out and enjoy some shopping with us!
h e L p W anted
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for an ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST TRAINEE in Alturas, CA. $2,977.00 - $4,620.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for an ELIGIBILITY SPECIALIST I in Alturas, CA. Eligibility Specialist I: $3,129.00$4,856.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501.
EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer.
Deadline for Classified Advertising is Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m.
$8.50 for each standard classified ad up to 35 words. PAYABLE IN ADVANCE. Standard ad is first two lines bold. Classifieds also appear on our website • CALL (530) 233-2632 • Fax (530) 233-5113 • EMAIL: classifieds@modocrecord.com
(20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for an EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING WORKER I/II in Alturas, CA. Employment & Training Worker I: $3,288.00$5,101.00 a month, plus benefits. Employment & Training Worker II: $3,456.00 - $5,362.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for an OFFICE ASSISTANT I in Alturas, CA. $2,831.00 - $4,392.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for an OFFICE ASSISTANT II in Alturas, CA. $2,977.00 - $4,620.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information
contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC
COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for an OFFICE ASSISTANT III in Alturas, CA. $3,129.00 - $4,856.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for a SOCIAL WORKER I/II in Alturas, CA. Social Worker I Salary: $3,706.00 - $4,730.00 a month, plus benefits. Social Worker II Salary: $3,896.00$4,973.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for a SOCIAL WORKER III in Alturas, CA.
$4,305.00 - $6,680.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum
qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501.
EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for a SOCIAL WORKER IV (A/B) in Alturas, CA. (A) 4,758.00 - $7,380.00 a month, plus benefits. (B) 5,001.00$7,756.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for a SOCIAL WORKER SUPERVISOR I in Alturas, CA. $5,001.00 - $7,756.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
MODOC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES is looking for
a SOCIAL WORKER SUPERVISOR II in Alturas, CA. $5,525.00
- $8,573.00 a month, plus benefits. View additional information, minimum qualification, and apply online at Merit Systems Services https://www. governmentjobs. com/careers/ MSS or https:// www.co.modoc. ca.us/. For more information contact CalHR Merit System Services at 916323-2360 or Modoc County Department of Social Services at dssadmin@ co.modoc.ca.us or 530-233-6501. EOE/ADA/Drug Free Workplace Employer. (20Mar/TFN)
WALTON’S AUTO CARE position opening for a full-time Secretary/ Bookkeeper. Responsibilities: •Customer invoicing and payment processing. •Appointment scheduling. • Reconcile bank statements and vendor statements. • Bill payment and record keeping. • Sales Tax reporting. Qualifications and Education Requirements: •Excellent knowledge of basic bookkeeping and accounts payable/ receivable practices • Ability to multitask, provide exceptional accuracy and organization • Reliability and ability to maintain confidentiality • Excellent customer service/ phone skills. Preferred skills: QuickBooks knowledge, accounting, organization, communication skills. Note: This is a full-time (40 hours/week), non-benefitted position. Fax: 530233-5554 or email: kwal1007@yahoo. com – subject line: Secretary/ Bookkeeper. Mail: Walton’s Auto Care, 1002 Maple Street, Alturas, CA 96101. (20Feb/ TFN)
Modoc County Office of Education is accepting applications for the following positions: Position: (1) External Support Clerk I. Hours: 8 hours per day/260 days per year. Site: Modoc County Office of Education
Starting: July 1, 2025. Salary: $23.75-34.78 per hour. Closing: Open until filled. Also,
Position: (1) External Support Clerk II. Hours: 8 hours per day/260 days per year. Site: Modoc County Office of Education. Starting: July 1, 2025. Salary: $26.10-38.32 per hour. Closing: Open until filled. Anyone interested in applying for the following position for the 2025/26 school year must apply to Sonya Murphy at 139 Henderson St. Alturas CA 96101 in writing or by email at smurphy@ modoccoe.k12. ca.us. Please submit a classified application, cover letter, resume and 3 letters of recommendation. Please see job descriptions on our website (www. modoccoe.k12. ca.us) for specific qualifications. Or Apply on Edjoin. org (13Mar/ Mar20)
Modoc Medical Center has an opening for a full time, benefit eligible, Care Coordinator at our MMC Clinic. Wage rate is $20.21-$29.54 per hour, dependent on experience. Under the direction of the Clinic Manager, Care Coordinator is responsible for the establishment and ongoing management of relationships between the patient and provider teams at Modoc Medical Center Clinic to implement and facilitate a Patient Centered Medical Home (PCHM) model. The model uses a team approach focused on a continuous partnership between patient, caregiver a, physician, hospital, and community resources to provide longitudinal, coordinated care for patients. Must have a high school diploma or GED, current CPR certification, two years professional experience in a healthcare environment preferred and care coordination or case management experience desirable. Interested candidates may apply online at www. modocmedical center.org or through an application available in Human Resources at Modoc Medical Center. (Mar20) Modoc Medical Center has an opening for a Controller for the finance department. The wage rate is $40.20 - $59.78 per
hour dependent on work experience. This position is fulltime and benefit eligible. Under the direction of the Finance Director, the Controller directs the financial activities of the organization and establishes or recommends to management major economic objectives and policies for the facility. Prepares reports which summarize and forecast company business activity and financial position in areas of income, expenses and earnings based on past, present and expected operations. Assists the Finance Director in directing and preparing the fiscal year budgets; directs the determination of depreciation rates to apply to capital assets; advises management on desirable operational adjustments as necessary. Arranges for audits of company’s accounts and ensures regulated reporting requirements are met. Proficiency in accounting, general ledger, and GAAP; knowledge of internal controls and existing accounting procedures; ability to train others and to look at the overall structure of the department and workflow. Has a working knowledge and understanding of revenue and expense drivers and how they impact the business. Must have a proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, specifically Excel. Fouryear degree in a business-related field. Accounting Degree and recent experience in the hospital field preferred. Critical
F or r ent
For Rent: 2 bedrooms, 1 bath house with mud room and office. Address: 907 N. Main St., Alturas. Monitor heat. $1,000. per month plus deposit. Contact Peggy at 530-640-3621. (Mar6/Mar27)
Access Hospital accounting experience a plus. Interested candidates may apply online at www. modocmedical center.org. (20Mar)
Modoc Medical Center has an opening for a Dental Coordinator for the Canby Clinic. This position is Full Time and benefit eligible. Wage rate is $19.50-$28.47 per hour, dependent on experience. The Dental Coordinator job duties include managing all records requests and releases and ensures that all consents are signed by the patient. Creates outgoing referrals and schedules all incoming referrals. Prepares estimates for patients, obtains pre-authorization from insurance companies, and prepares financial agreements for services not covered by insurance as well as entering patient alerts into patient charts. Current CPR card required within 30 days of employment; Two years dental experience preferred. Interested candidates may apply online at www. modocmedical center.org. (Mar20)
The Modoc County Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for open Noxious Weed Spraying positions. Job details and application may be obtained from the Modoc County Department of Agriculture, 202 West 4th Street, Alturas, California 96101, or by calling 530-233-6401. (20Mar/Mar27)
WANT TO BUY: PROPERTY IN Modoc, Lassen, Plumas. Quick Cash. Call Now: (530) 6700253. (TFN) W anted
Marching Forward: Recognizing Women’s Impact in History and Today
By: Shaelene Tims
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. It started as a local event in California and grew into a national observance, recognizing the significant role women have played in shaping our communities, industries, and government. Here are a few facts you might not know from history: Women’s History Month started in California.
In 1978, Sonoma County, California, launched Women’s History Week to highlight women’s contributions to history. The movement gained national recognition, and in 1980, President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the first Women’s History Week. Congress later expanded it to a month in 1987. The first programmer was a woman.
In the 1800s, mathematician Ada Lovelace wrote the first algorithm intended for a machine, laying the foundation for modern computing.
A woman helped put astronauts on the moon.
Women needed a male co-signer to get credit cards until 1974. Before the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, banks required women to have a husband or father co-sign for a credit card.
Wyoming led the country as the first U.S. territory to grant women the right to vote.
In 1869, Wyoming passed a law allowing women to vote—more than 50 years before the 19th Amendment was ratified.
Title IX, signed into law in 1972, revolutionized women’s sports. This law banned gender discrimination in federally funded education programs, increasing opportunities for female athletes.
Honoring Local Women in Northern California Women’s contributions span every sector of society, from science and politics to agriculture and business. Here in Northern California, women have played a key role in shaping rural communities, particularly in farming and ranching. Today, nearly 40% of U.S. farms are women-owned, a testament to their
NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson calculated the Apollo 11 flight path, ensuring the success of the 1969 moon landing.
leadership in an industry once dominated by men. This year, the California State Senate continues its tradition of recognizing exceptional women through the Woman of the Year award. Among the honorees is Dr. Kasey DeAtley. Her work in agricultural education and ranching reflects the strength and perseverance of women in our region.
A sixth-generation Northern Californian, Dr. DeAtley has dedicated her career to educating future ranchers and preserving the region’s rich agricultural heritage. She co-advises the Young Cattlemen’s Association and actively works alongside her family in their cattle business. Her work exemplifies the strength and leadership of women in rural industries.
Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on progress and recognize the individuals shaping our communities today. Whether in science, politics, sports, or agriculture, women continue to leave their mark. This March, take time to celebrate the women—past and present—who inspire change.
