The Trinity Journal

The TriniTy Journal

FINAL WEEK OF LEAGUE: Teams prep for playoffs; Trinity set to open rebuilt gym. 10

Prorating of cannabis licenses debated

BY JOSH COZINE THE TRINITY JOURNAL

Holders of now useless, county-issued, provisional, commercial cannabis licenses may soon see some of their licensing costs recovered. That is, in the form of a prorate on their annual license, when, and if, that happens.

After a court ruling in October 2021 spelled out that provisional CCLs issued by the county were both illegal and invalid, the county deemed the licenses expired and they became effectively worthless despite licensees having paid up to thousands of dollars to the county to obtain them. Depending on when the oneyear provisional licenses were issued, any licenses that would have extended past Oct. 31, 2021, can be considered to have paid for a longer period of being licensed than actually happened.

The prorate would be calculated and then applied toward a new, annual, commercial cannabis license should the provisional license holder continue to seek licensing after completing all necessary CEQA compliances and other paperwork.

The idea was introduced Tuesday, Feb. 1, at the county Board of Supervisors meeting where it was brought forward as a discussion item and subsequently motioned to come back with more information for the March 1 board meeting after issues and questions were raised by the board and public alike.

The main issues raised centered on the wording presented. With no other documents attached to the discussion item, those in attendance had only the summary as information, which reads:

“As per a court order, all issued ‘provisional’ commercial cannabis licenses were deemed expired on October 31, 2021. These licenses are set to cover a 12-month period, starting when issued. Because of this, licenses that were issued to extend past October 31 were overpaid for. To rectify this situation, the county will calculate a prorated amount used, and allow the remainder to be credited to a new commercial cannabis license fee.” Paying a fee or buying a product?

The first question raised was by Sup. Jill Cox who wanted clarification on the difference between paying fees for something and paying a cost to receive something.

“The question that I would have is whether this (money) is considered a fee for a service, or is it considered the price of a product?” Cox asked.

In a later interview with The Journal, Cox clarified her question further, “The county does not sell products, and cannot make a profit.”

County Administrative Officer Richard Kuhns responded to Cox’s question during the meeting.

“That’s a great question,” Kuhns responded, “because In the ordinance, it’s

NATURE'S CORNER: The Ruffed Grouse's range extends into northwestern California. 13

Headed to dead pool?

BY TONY REED THE TRINITY JOURNAL

While one will likely find thousands of search results using the term Deadpool, the vast majority will have little to do with Trinity County, the Trinity River or Trinity Lake. The one that will matter is this definition commonly used in water management; Deadpool: the point at which a dam no longer has enough water to generate hydroelectricity. Some water experts are predicting that unless the county receives significant rain and/or snow soon, that could happen in Trinity Lake this year.

Tom Stokely, water policy director with the California Water Impact Network, says there is a possibility that Trinity and Shasta lakes may be drained to the point of Deadpool this summer and the reason would be overallocation. He cited a study in 2014 by the UC Davis Center for Watershed Sciences that determined the state has allocated more water than it has to give.

“This assessment indicates that water allocated through the state appropriate water rights system exceeds overall mean water supplies by approximately five times,” the 2014 study reads. “Our findings also highlight river basins where significant over-allocation of surface water supplies is likely to lead to conflicts among water users, particularly during periods of water scarcity when insufficient water is available to satisfy all face-value water right demands.”

Stokely said additional contracts bump the allocations up to

seven times the supply, and that no matter how much it rains, those claims can never be met.

Stokely said that while those contracts are based on water availability, the contracted beneficiaries tend to act as if the water allocation amounts were guaranteed regardless. Referring to contract allocations as “paper water,” Stokely said the release of such allocations will keep Trinity Lake from ever filling completely.

He added that deals were signed before the dam was built, and that water was already being diverted from the river before the Bureau of Reclamation was formed.

“When the Bureau of Reclamation applied for permits, they

Ongoing Solid Waste Department problems raise a stink

New hours of operation, dumpster repairs and recycling challenges discussed

BY JOSH COZINE THE TRINITY JOURNAL

The Weaverville Solid Waste Transfer Station may soon have new signs posted saying the station might close up to a half hour early — if your garbage load is too much.

The Board of Supervisors dumped a heap of questions directed at the Solid Waste Department during the county Board of Supervisors meeting Feb. 1. Questions were asked about hours of operation, intermittently closed transfer sites, the status of recycling operations in the county, dumpster bin shortages and more.

Diane Rader, deputy director for the department, first gave her report out before the board. She said there had been questions about the hours of operations because some people had been turned away when they arrived before closing with too much trash for Solid Waste attendants to process in time before closing operations.

Rader explained that large loads showing up 15 to 30 minutes before closing causes staff to have to dip into overtime hours in order to finish transferring the load and still complete other closing processes that must be done.

“Even after the public time during the day the sites have other activities that they have to do to finish up their day, and they don’t want to get into too much overtime occurring — which is a cost control factor we have — and there are just things that have to be done before we can finish up our day,” Rader said.

Rader also mentioned challenges with getting rid of e-waste and tires at the different county transfer sites before questions from the board. The transfer sites are full on both, with strict limits on tires and a day-long process involving multiple inventory counts and committing Solid Waste personnel to hours of driving to get e-waste to the nearest site which accepts it in Orland (roughly 2 hours away).

Once Rader finished her report out, it was time for questions and comments from the board; and questions and comments they had aplenty.

New hours possible

Sup. Liam Gogan spoke first on the reports of turning people away at transfer station gates, starting a short

After a wet start to winter, a dry start to the new year has many worried

JOSH SMITH | SPECIAL TO THE TRINITY JOURNAL

Michael Novak measures snow pack in the Trinity Alps last month.

A makeshift road had to be constructed to get down to the lowering water level at the Trinity Alps Marina on Trinity Lake.

WEATHER, LAKE REPORT

about the Trinity River release, 530-246-7594. or check www.usbr.gov/mp/cvo/vungvari/trinity.pdf

of Greenville

For more on Trinity County weather, see www.trinityjournal.com w Weather icons courtesy of WeatherSniffer.com

Weaverville man arrested in Oregon for Redding warrant

TRINITY JOURNAL STAFF

A Weaverville man remains in jail in Shasta County after being arrested in Oregon for a warrant out of Redding for intentionally hitting two people with his vehicle. Redding Police had been looking for Lawrence Williams, 40, since an Oct. 15 altercation at the Sundial Bridge where he reportedly hit two people with his van and fled the scene.

Williams

According to a release from RPD, Williams was witnessed fighting with two 18-year-old subjects — Kaden Fritz of Redding and Kaden Methany of Shasta City — before attempting to hit them with his vehicle. Witnesses said that after missing the subjects once, Williams returned and struck both of them with the vehicle, causing significant injuries. A previous release stated that Williams was also injured in the altercation.

A passenger in his van, Sara Stimson of Weaverville, was not arrested.

Redding Police obtained an extraditable warrant for Williams’ arrest, charging him with two counts of assault with a deadly weapon. According to the release, Williams was also on parole for an armed robbery in Redding.

GOVERNMENT CALENDAR

Meetings are subject to cancellation or closure to the public, or being held by teleconferencing, due to weather or to reduce potential exposure to the coronavirus.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 9

Mountain Valley Unified School District Board of Directors, 5:15 p.m. closed session, 6:15 p.m. regular session at Hayfork High School

Coffee Creek Elementary School District, 3:30 p.m. at the school

THURSDAY, FEB. 10

Trinity Public Utilities District Board, 2 p.m. at the TPUD community room, 26 Ponderosa Lane, Weaverville

Burnt Ranch School Board, 3 p.m. at the school, 251 Burnt Ranch School Road

Junction City School Board of Trustees, 5:30 p.m. at the school

Trinity County Planning Commission, 6 p.m. at the Trinity County Library in Weaverville; www.trinitycounty.org/Agendas-Minutes-Staff-Reports

SATURDAY, FEB. 12

Post Mountain PUD Board regular monthly business meeting at 10 a.m. at Post Mountain Volunteer Fire Hall

MONDAY, FEB. 14

Douglas City Elementary School Board of Trustees, 4:30 p.m. at the school, 100 School Road, room 2

Trinity Alps Unified School District Board of Trustees, 5:30 p.m. at the WES Library

TUESDAY, FEB. 15

Trinity County Board of Supervisors, 9 a.m. at the Trinity County Library in Weaverville; www.trinitycounty.org/Agendas-Minutes-Staff-Reports

Trinity County Waterworks District #1 Board, 2 p.m. at the district office on Reservoir Road in Hayfork Southern Trinity Joint Unified School District, 7:30 p.m., Southern Trinity High School library, 600 Van Duzen Road, Mad River

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 16

Trinity County Life Support, 10:30 a.m. and Trinity Life Support CSD, 11 a.m. in the TCLS training room, 610 Washington St., Weaverville

Trinity County Office of Education Board of Trustees, 1 p.m. in the TCOE conference room, Weaverville Agendas for meetings are posted to our website Government Calendar as we receive them.

LOOKING FOR A HOME

The Trinity County Sheriff’s Office responded to the following calls from Jan. 31 to Feb. 6: MONDAY, JAN. 31

At 12:14 a.m., an officer pulled over a vehicle in Weaverville and found the driver of the vehicle had a realistic BB gun/imitation assault rifle on the passenger seat. When asked what it was for, the driver replied, “for doing good ol’ boy sh**,” and “maybe it’s there for suicide by cop.” Driver was advised to keep the bb gun in the trunk.

At 2:36 a.m., a caller reported hearing a loud altercation in Weaverville, near the library.

At 7:10 a.m., a caller reported a tree down across the highway in Weaverville.

At 9:19 a.m., a caller in Denny reported that his son threw a wheelbarrow at him, hitting him in the back.

At 10:36 a.m., a caller reported that a male subject in a sedan was throwing metal around the area of Tom Bell Road in Weaverville. Deputy arrived to admonish the subject about trespassing and told him to leave the area.

At 11:42 a.m., a Douglas City caller reported that a neighbor has been harassing her.

At 12:19 p.m., a caller reported a dog running into traffic in the area of Wellock Road in Lewiston.

At 3:04 p.m., a Weaverville caller reported that his grandmother is drunk and attacking his mother. Caller did not want to pursue charges, only asked that the grandmother be admonished.

At 4:59 p.m., a Lewiston caller reported that a known subject has been harassing her. Deputy advised caller of the restraining order process.

TUESDAY, FEB. 1

At 8:30 a.m., a Hayfork caller reported that her dogs got into a fight with another dog that was in her yard, causing injuries to them.

At 8:34 a.m., a caller reported a tan chihuahua had been hanging around her house in Lewiston for weeks. Caller said neighbors believed the owner may be in jail and that the dog has been eating from her dog’s outdoor food. Caller agreed to capture the dog and bring it in.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 2

At 8:24 a.m., a caller reported that a laptop went missing from his vehicle in the area of Main Street in Weaverville. Deputy arrived to collect video footage from the area.

At 9:20 a.m., a Hayfork caller reported that an employee broke into a property and stole his entire harvest.

At 5:57 p.m., a Douglas City caller reported that another subject has been claiming someone has been stealing her fuel and messing with her heating system. Deputy checked on the subject, who was aware her residence has heating issues and is working on them.

At 8:57 p.m., a caller reported a subject was missing in the area of Lewiston Lake. Deputy launched a boat in the area and successfully rescued the subject from the lake.

THURSDAY, FEB. 3

At 8:45 a.m., a caller reported that the door of a building on Highway 299 in Big Bar had been destroyed and that a generator and other items had been stolen from inside.

At 1:38 p.m., a Junction City caller reported that a subject drove onto his property and started taking photos. Caller said the subject left when asked.

At 2:14 p.m., a caller reported his dog had been shot in the area of Bear Springs Road in Junction City. Caller said he spoke to a subject who admitted shooting the dog, claiming that it was attacking him. Deputy arrived to speak to all subjects. No further action was taken.

At 3:06 p.m., a caller reported smoke in the area of Reo Lane near Douglas City. Fire personnel arrived to snuff the fire.

TRINITY COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER

This beauty is Flour, she is about 2 years old and is spayed now! This girl is such a good dog! We believe she is a German Shepherd mix, possibly with some husky. She has tons of energy and willingness to please, but she definitely needs some work with her manners. Flour seems to be OK with cats with proper introductions and supervision. She has been introduced to a couple submissive dogs and does present as a dominant female, but has not shown aggressive yet. We believe she’d be good in a home with a submissive dog who won’t challenge her too much. Otherwise she absolutely loves to play! She also does very well on a leash! If you are interested in adopting Flour call the Trinity County Animal Shelter at 530-623-1370.

TRAFFIC WATCH

HIGHWAY 299: One-way controlled traffic at various locations from 4.5 miles east of Big Bar to 0.2 of a mile east of Helena, and from 3.3 miles west to 1.2 miles east of Del Loma, due to wildfire rehabilitation and slide repair. Motorists are subject to delays of up to 70 minutes. Crews will be on-site from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. doing metal beam guardrail installation, drainage installation, slide removal, two tree removal operations, and catchment creation at multiple sites.

► Bridge work will be underway from 2 to 2.5 miles east of Burnt Ranch from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. today and Thursday, Feb. 9-10, and from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11. One-way traffic control will be in effect with 5-minute waits.

► Emergency repairs east of Blue Lake to Willow Creek to continue in Humboldt County. One-way traffic control in effect 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Motorists should expect 15-minute delays.

► Traffic signal work is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, at the Lance Gulch/ Highway 299 intersection in Weaverville. One-way traffic control will be in effect with the possibility of eight-minute waits.

HIGHWAY 36: Motorists can expect 60-minute delays from Forest Glen to 3 miles east of Forest Glen between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday-Friday through March 15. Minimal delays via reversible traffic control (5-10 minutes) can be expected overnight and on weekends. 24/7 traffic control remains in effect at this project location due to one lane being available in the slide area.

Check with Caltrans for current conditions – www. dot.ca.gov/cgi-bin/roads.cgi or call 530-225-3452.

and publisher Wayne R. Agner, editor@trinityjournal.com

Reed, tonyr@trinityjournal.com

Cozine, joshc@trinityjournal.com

Schultz, clarissas@trinityjournal.com

Valdez, victoriav@trinityjournal.com

Sales: Joel Patton, joelp@trinityjournal.com

/Ad composition: Tracy Reiner, tjads@trinityjournal.com

At 3:44 p.m., a Salyer caller reported that a landlord locked the gate to their place. Landlord was contacted and said the gate was “dummy locked” and lock actually secured. Deputy contacted caller who said the gate is no longer locked.

At 5:16 p.m., a caller reported a structure fire in the area of Short Street in Weaverville. Fire personnel arrived to snuff the fire. FRIDAY, FEB. 4

At 7:05 a.m., a caller reported a structure fire in the area of Dirt Road in Hayfork. Fire personnel arrived to find a burn pile with the owner present.

At 7:43 a.m., a caller reported a car stuck in the mud in the area of Tom Bell Road in Weaverville.

At 1:47 p.m., a caller reported that several items, including solar panels, a trailer and power inverters had been stolen from his Hyampom property in the last few months. Value was estimated at over $2,000.

At 10:13 p.m., a caller reported a man at her gate in Weaverville yelling at her. Caller said there have been issues with people entering a nearby empty house that should not be there.

SATURDAY, FEB. 5

At 7:26 a.m., a caller reported being assaulted in the area of Easter Avenue in Weaverville.

At 9:03 a.m., a caller reported an aggressive German shepherd in the area of Taylor Street in Weaverville.

At 3:51 p.m., a caller reported that her dog was attacked by another dog in the area of Big Creek Road in Hayfork.

At 4:42 p.m., a caller reported that someone had trapped a cat in the area of Center Street in Weaverville and that the animal has no food or water. Caller was advised to recontact if the cat is not retrieved soon.

At 5:15 p.m., a caller reported that her neighbor’s dog barks constantly and tried to attack his animals through the fence.

At 7:21 p.m., a caller reported hearing yelling and possibly gunshots in the area of Vitzthum Gulch Road in Lewiston. A deputy checked the area and was unable to locate any issues taking place.

SUNDAY, FEB. 6

At 9:30 a.m., a caller reported that after having ongoing issues with a subject in Big Bar, the subject struck him in the head twice with his fist, resulting in a physical fight. Deputy attempted to contact subjects for further investigation but was unable to reach them

At 3:30 p.m., a caller reported that a generator-operated light was taken from the area of Highway 36 in Forest Glen.

At 4:04 p.m., a caller reported being in the process of moving out of a Weaverville residence but upon driving by the house later, could see someone inside. Caller wanted a deputy to tell the person to leave. Deputy arrived to find the residence secure, but neighbors confirmed someone had been in the house.

An exodus or an opportunity?

Trinity County is in the midst of an exodus of department heads and in the search process for a county administrative officer, director of building and planning, director of human resources and director of transportation. The county is also searching for a program manager for the Cannabis Division and is seeking allocation for a division director position for the Grants Department.

► CAO Richard Kuhns, whose last day will be May 31, hopes to get back into the social service and treatment field as a consultant, using his education in psychology.

► Former Director of Transportation Rick Tippett had talked retirement for years before doing so.

► Building and Planning Director Kim Hunter had previously resigned after only two years in the position.

► Human Resources Director Shelly Nelson plans to retire June 30.

► The Cannabis Division, despite being fully funded, has been notoriously understaffed since its inception.

Residents have rightfully asked why so many department heads have chosen to leave at the same time.

It could be the desire of a few to pursue other opportunities simply coincided with several natural retirements. But we see a few other factors in play:

1) Like many businesses, clubs and organizations in Trinity, leadership is simply aging out.

2) As a small county Trinity will always serve as a training ground. That means people will come here for a few years to gain experience and pad their resumes before moving on to greener (or at least more lucrative) pastures.

3) It can wear on a person — regardless of the six-figure salary and nice benefits package — to attempt to do all that needs to be done without the staffing or budget needed to do so. Likewise, the battle to fight through the long-established inertia can be tiring. The county has been lagging in both long-term planning and in modernizing many of its departments, making simple jobs much more demanding and time-consuming.

4) The infrastructure — whether it be housing, nightlife, whatever — simply isn’t in place for those who have worked their way up the ladder. Unless a candidate revels in smalltown life and enjoys the plethora of outdoor activities available within Trinity County, the amenities many candidates enjoy simply aren’t here in sufficient numbers.

The Board of Supervisors has the unenviable task of filling the positions all at once, with wide-ranging implications on the future for Trinity County. Get it right and we begin to move forward. Get it wrong and we face another lost decade.

Lockdowns were little help, but came at great cost

Certainly no surprise to us, a new working paper from Johns Hopkins University claims that COVID-19 lockdowns imposed by a variety of governments worldwide had “little to no effect” on COVID-19 mortality.

We had long argued that shutting down small businesses that rarely had more than a handful of customers at any given time — while allowing larger businesses like Target, Walmart and Lowe’s to stay open attracting hundreds of customers — made no sense and imposed serious harm on those least able to afford it. We asked for a more common-sense approach, but that request went unheeded by often-hypocritical government officials.

According to the analysis of each of three strategies — lockdowns, shelter-in-place, and other non-pharmaceutical intervention — lockdowns were ineffective. More specifically, stringency index studies found that lockdowns in Europe and the United States only reduced COVID-19 mortality by 0.2% on average. SIPOs were also ineffective, only reducing COVID-19 mortality by 2.9% on average. Specific NPI studies also find no broad-based evidence of noticeable effects on COVID-19 mortality.

The study, published in late January by the Institute for Applied Economics, Global Health, and the Study of Business Enterprise conducted by three professors from around the world, also found that lockdowns “imposed enormous economic and social costs.” Those include business failures and job losses, as well as increases in depression, domestic violence and suicide.

Lockdowns are “ill-founded and should be rejected as a pandemic policy instrument,” the study concludes. We have to agree.

Some supes have explaining to do

FROM JIM BORRUSO

JUNCTION CITY

I have followed the Trinity Action Association v. Trinity County lawsuit since early 2019. The County was then called on the carpet for failing to comply with CEQA — the environmental review law for land-use permit approvals, including for commercial cannabis license approvals, and for not being transparent in its dealings. Without admitting that it had not followed CEQA in issuing CCLs, in August of 2019 the then-existing Board of Supervisors, including Keith Groves and Jeremy Brown, approved a settlement agreement with TAA, agreeing to comply with CEQA and “open meeting” laws in all CCL approvals, going forward.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the county under that board’s “oversight” then entirely disregarded the approved settlement agreement with TAA concerning review of cannabis cultivation impacts on neighbors. This occurred under the ruse of issuing CCLs as “provisional” licenses, ostensibly allowing the licensee to comply with environmental review at some unstated later date (which did not occur). This was and is not permitted by CEQA, but continued full steam ahead in 2020, even after TAA apparently implored the county to abide by its settlement agreement and CEQA obligations.

When the county continued to disregard its CEQA review obligations, TAA had to eventually seek court enforcement of the settlement agreement, with both sides engaging in increased and expensive legal wrangling.

In an early 2021 public board discussion of this issue by the newly constituted Board of Supervisors, with a further proposed settlement agreement that would have had the county reaffirm its willingness to finally follow the law, and to pay TAA’s attorney’s enforcement fees in the nominal amount of approximately $30,000, only board member Jill Cox argued that this case should be resolved without more legal proceedings and costs. But no, Supervisors Groves and Brown convinced a majority of their colleagues then to continue to disregard their clear CEQA and TAA settlement agreement obligations, and to have county planners undertake to actually consider all impacts on neighbors before approving cultivation licenses.

Fast forward still another year, with the Trinity County Superior Court having recently found the county failed to meet its clear legal obligations since the August 2019 settlement agreement, and directing the county to finally following the law in the meantime. In doing so the court made specific findings

that the county fully and continuously disregarded the applicable law. All of this occurred while the county paid its attorney’s tens of thousands of dollars to “defend” the board’s policy of looking the other way.

But, in addition to incurring its own considerable legal defense costs (for what turned out to be fully indefensible), the court also determined that the county was now responsible to pay for all of TAA’s attorney’s fees, in an amount of over $300,000 — more than ten-fold what it could have been.

Dumps, roads, TPUD = stench

FROM GEORGE E. ARNOLD HAYFORK

Once again, it’s time for old man Arnold’s rants. To the man in Trinity Center, yes! The Hayfork dump is still the pits. The potholes won’t set your air bags off yet, but they will give you whiplash. When we do have rain, the sour smell permeates the entire place. The inch of mud we walk in brings the stench into our vehicles. So, count on washing your rig’s tires and floor mats along with your boots when you get home. I even bathe and wash my clothes.

To the man in Lewiston wanting paved roads and a person to run for supervisor interested in helping his constituents, that makes me laugh. People run for office to help themselves and friends. As for roads, my road has been chip sealed once in 44 years. (Former Transportation Department head) Rick Tippett even let growers block off and eliminate Nelson Road in Hayfork. It ran from Wildwood Road to Summit Creek Road and actually has had a grow and locked gate at Wildwood Road past 6-7 years. The rich get pavement, and we get to pay for it.

Now for the Trinity PUD. Several years ago, our rates were increased to update the system. In no time, new PUD trucks were running about improving everything. Then came pot grows using more electricity in a day than we used in a month. At night it looked like giant lightbulbs laying on mountains, brighter than the sun. That’s when pot was illegal. Now that it’s legal, it’s even worse.

I have a neighbor whose snow melts on half of their roof. That takes some heat. PUD’s comment about not even using 50% of their allotted electricity really puzzles me. For several years I’ve been paying over 10% of my bill for a little scam called a drought relief surcharge. I’m told it’s for “in case we have to buy power from elsewhere,” since we have never used even 50% that seems highly unlikely to me. I’d like to know where that train load of cash is stored and why it is being collected. I think the PUD needs an audit.

Exterminated species — why?

FROM BRIAN HILL WEAVERVILLE

Porcupines were as common as skunk, civet cats and raccoons in our forests. They were regularly seen killed on our roads and highways. But now there are no more porcupines*. Porcupines eat the tender bark around the base of young trees and shrubs — forest fuels. But their fatal mistake was that they also ate the tender bark around the base of plantation pines and firs. Therefore our brilliant and brave forest managers exterminated the entire species of porcupines. And where are our trusted environmentalists who are dedicated to overseeing resource managers as well as the health of our ecosystems? Why don’t we see almost no graduate school papers on What Happened to the Porcupines and What Role does the Porcupine Play in Forest Stewardship?

Now we have forests with too much brush and the trees are overstocked, i.e., too many too close, that the old growth canopy can’t mature. But forests with too much brush and too many trees too close together are great for fueling forest fires. Also, as tree farms/plantations take the place of forests, biodiversity is lost, and along with it the Primary Ecosystem Services (PES) that are essential for providing all life, especially air, water, climate, carbon sequestration and the whole biodiversity spectrum we call life on Earth. The porcupine is a hero of forest stewardship. Why has s/he been exterminated? So we can have almost lifeless plantations to make a few people rich at the expense of all other life? Hello?

Next, that ugly sucker fish, they are vegan, living mostly off the algae in fresh waterways. Again, here is another stewardship species of life that has been eliminated for the most part. What happened to the sucker fish?

Did our resource managers and the environmental community decide that they are too ugly for our waterways? Now the managers of our waterways are trying to figure out how to control the algae in our waters.

They sprayed Clear Lake with something (secret) that killed all kinds of life— oops. Maybe the sucker fish naturally does a better job at balancing algae in waterways than our scientists. No wonder science is getting such a bad name!

When science dedicates itself to getting along with Mother Nature instead of controlling her, which it could do from peoples who have lived here for thousands of years, it might regain our respect.

But right now the science of resource management gets a capital F, imho.

DAVID K. WILLIAMS

The family of David Kenneth Williams said goodbye to their wonderful trailblazer on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021, after a long season of missing him while he lived with dementia.

David was born in San Diego, Calif., on July 16, 1952. He moved to Trinity County in 1979 and built a barn (completely on his own) as a home. In 1980, he met his beloved Becky (Walden) while they both worked at Trinity Hospital in Weaverville. For both Dave and Becky, it was crush at first sight, and they married on April 16, 1981.

They built a new home together near East Weaver Creek. He created an oasis next to the creek, with plentiful vegetable gardens and lush grass to play – even adding a bedroom to the house after their son, James, was born. Dave shared his dedication to artistry and unstoppable work ethic with James, who now uses his father’s tools to improve a home for his own family.

Local musicians, elementary students, and artists may remember Dave’s Drums – this was the man behind the stunning woodwork. He created beautiful sounds and drums with James at his side. The family sold the drums at the Tribal Stomp most years and became friendly with other makers.

Dave knew every song released by Neil Young and the Bridge School Benefit concert was an annual family tradition. One year, in the pouring rain, they attended in full raingear, and were rewarded by an impromptu performance by Robin Williams.

David led the way on family bike-packing trips from Vancouver to Oregon, fishing for redtail perch at Gold Bluffs Beach or trout in Trinity Lake, adventures in Mexico, camping at Kangaroo Lake, and skiing every year at Mount Shasta.

On his lunch breaks from working as the groundskeeper and janitor at Trinity High School, Dave rode his bicycle up Oregon mountain for exercise. On other days, he sat at the potter’s wheel in the art classroom and taught himself to throw. While living in Redding after retirement, Dave joined the Shasta Wheelmen and loved riding with James on weekends. He continued to ride after moving to McKinleyville with his family in 2013, hitting the road up to Trinidad several times per week.

David looked forward to being a Papa one day. We are thrilled that his grandson inherited his spirited curls, impish crooked smile, and deep brown eyes. Though Dave’s illness prevented him from ever knowing his grandson, we know he would have loved him wholeheartedly.

David’s family and friends are grateful to the kind caregivers at Timber Ridge Renaissance in McKinleyville, where he lived for the last four years of his life.

David Kenneth will be remembered by his wife Becky; son James (Cari); grandson Ronan Kenneth; mother Veronica Fagan; siblings Joann Beattie-Williams, Kevin Williams, and Gary (Annie) Williams; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded by his little sister, Beverly, whom we expect that he has found and hugged.

As David wished, he was cremated and will be returned to the sea. Memorial traditions with family will be held privately. Donations in David’s name can be made to The Bridge School, by mail at 545 Eucalyptus Ave., Hillsborough, CA 94010, or via their website (www. bridgeschool.org/support).

LAURIE L. HAMILTON

Laurie Lee Hamilton

passed away Jan. 11, 2022.

She was the last baby born in old Trinity Center before the old town was inundated by Trinity Lake.

She was born July 5, 1958. Laurie attended all eight grades of elementary school in Trinity Center and four years of high school at Trinity High in Weaverville. From there she went to Shasta College in Redding and earned her dental assistant’s license in Sacramento.

Laurie was truly a mountain woman. She was fourth generation Trinity County and proud of it. Her grandparents, Ed and Maude Scott, developed a portion of their property which was above the Trinity Lake take line for a subdivision so people from old Trinity Center and Stringtown could move if they wanted. The first lots were sold at cost. Many moved their homes to new Trinity Center. Laurie’s family home was the second new home build in new Trinity Center, her grandparents’ was the first.

Laurie was a defender of the underdog. Laurie’s dad taught her how to fight and she used that skill to defend herself and those who couldn’t defend themselves. This she did on occasion resulting in a few phone calls from school to home.

Laurie grew up riding horses, swimming, water skiing and fishing and she was good at it, very good. She learned to drive at an early age on back logging roads and to the Trinity Alps trailheads to the alpine lakes in a four-wheel drive Willy’s Jeep. Laurie loved to camp. All of these skills she taught her daughter Jessica, who is now teaching her children.

In high school Laurie went out for high jump and broad jump. She was good at that, too. She had a determined nature, and she loved her family and Trinity County with an unbridled passion. Laurie was an excellent water skier; she could send up an awesome rooster tail on her single ski. Once a year Laurie would take her daughter Jessica to Mt. Shasta snow skiing. Jessica would snowboard and Laurie would ski. Laurie tried snowboarding and decided it wasn’t for her.

Laurie’s dogs were a big part of her life. When Sky, her big German shepherd-wolf mix died, he took a chunk of her heart with him.

Reading was something she enjoyed; Steven King was her favorite. Old movies were something she liked a lot, too. Laurie made sure she’d be in heaven. She asked Pastor Robin to explain the plan of salvation and she accepted Jesus Christ as her savior.

Laurie leaves behind her daughter Jessica Hamilton (Seth Grigsby); two grandchildren, Matthew and Abagail; her mom Mary Hamilton; her sister Leslie Palmquist (Don); nephew Jason, niece Aerie; and good friend John Gray. She was preceded by her dad, Dick Hamilton, and niece and nephews Renee and Shane Bunqarz. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

STEVEN ‘RENO’ PATTON

Steven “Reno” Patton passed away on Jan. 26, 2022, after a hard battle with cancer. He was 51 years old. He was born in Redding Calif., on March 29, 1970. Reno grew up in Hayfork where he resided for most of his life, but he also lived in Elk City, Idaho, for many years. Even after moving back to Hayfork, he frequently visited Idaho to visit his children and grandchildren that still live there.

Reno was a graduate of Hayfork Elementary and Hayfork High schools where he played baseball, basketball and football. He loved sports, played Little League, Pony League, and played for the American Legion Anderson Buck baseball team. He was also a member of the Wintu Indian tribe.

He took pride in working as a logger and a heavy equipment operator a trade he learned from his father and later passed on to his own children.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed the opportunities to do both in Hayfork and the Elk City area. Reno loved to fish and swim on the South Fork of the Trinity River. He loved to stop, pick and eat blackberries and apples while out hunting and fishing, always making sure to bring some home to his mom so she could make his favorite pies. It was a joke among his family and friends that he knew the location of all the apple trees in Trinity and Idaho counties.

Reno was an active member of both communities he lived in and never missed an opportunity to support his community by volunteering his time and financial assistance. All who knew Reno knew of his amazing storytelling abilities. He captivated his audience with his hunting, fishing, logging and Bigfoot stories. He had the ability to make people laugh and always made you smile when you saw him. He was a wonderful son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend to many.

Reno is survived by his mother Valerie Patton; brother Shawn Patton (Stacy), brother Mark Patton; daughters Erica Patton (Mit), Stephanie Patton (Marcus), Haley Wemhoff (Dan) of Idaho; and sons Aaron Patton (Katie) of Idaho, Jake Patton (Emily) of Idaho; grandchildren Addison, Tyden, Konner, Mazie, Hank and Tinley; nieces Ivy Rose Patton and Vanessa Patton and nephew Ely Patton; great-nieces Ella and Jesse and many other family members.

He is proceeded in death by his father Russell Patton and grandparents George and Peggy Patton.

He also leaves behind his best friend Mark August and wife Lana August and many, many friends that will dearly miss him.

A celebration of life will be held at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 26, at the Hyampom Community Hall.

As a graduate of Hayfork High School Reno believed in supporting the youth of Hayfork. His family asks if you are so moved, you donate to the Hayfork Scholarship Foundation in his honor. Donations can be sent to Hayfork Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box 1341, Hayfork, CA 96041.

JOAN E. SCHIRLE

Joan Emilie Schirle died at 4:10 p.m. Feb. 1, 2022, at her home in Blue Lake, Calif. She was an acclaimed independent actor, director, playwright, teacher and deviser and was the founding artistic director of Dell’Arte International (DAI), joining the company in 1976. A pioneer in establishing the concept of “Theatre of Place” and ensemble devising, she was committed to international exchange and environmental justice. Schirle performed and taught around the world. She was born Feb. 4, 1944, in San Jose, Calif., to Anton Joseph Schirle and Ramona Marie Schilling.

- HELP WANTED -

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MARILYN A. LANDRETH

Marilyn Anne Landreth — wife, mom, grandmother, auntie, sister, and dear friend — peacefully passed on Dec. 19, 2021, from cancer and kidney failure in Sacramento, Calif.

Marilyn was born Feb. 1, 1942, in Chicago, Ill., where she developed lifelong friendships with Ellen and Linda; the trio were known lovingly as the Three Musketeers in their Northside neighborhood. It was through this friendship that Marilyn was introduced to the New Apostolic Church; a Christian organization that she dearly loved and in which she served her entire life.

In 1961 Marilyn met Bob, when his brother Bill married her fellow musketeer Linda in Oakland, Calif. A few months later Bob joined the Navy and was sent to basic training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center outside of Chicago. The two reconnected and quickly fell in love; the lovebirds were married in August 1963. The newlyweds relocated to San Diego following Bob’s Naval orders.

Once Bob was discharged from the Navy the pair relocated to Alameda where Marilyn took on numerous executive assistant positions at scientific research organizations while Bob became a barber and small business owner. In the evenings and weekends they worked together to learn the craft of upholstery through a local adult school program; turning their small Bay Farm Island dining room into their first workshop.

In 1972 the two decided to follow their dreams of living in the mountains and relocated to Weaverville. With help from family and friends they built their home by remodeling three mining shacks. They also built their business on the same lot, Landreth’s Upholstery and Bob’s Barbershop. Over the years Marilyn became a master artisan who was known throughout Northern California and beyond for impeccable work and willingness to tackle almost any challenge (furniture, boats, cars, buses, tractors, planes, trains, and every type of zipper repair imaginable) Even though she claimed to retire in 2018 she continued to work on smaller projects at her shop until she became sick in September 2021.

Marilyn was a devout Christian who worked alongside her husband to start New Apostolic congregations in Weaverville and McKinleyville, Calif. Saturday mornings her kitchen was usually filled with enticing aromas from the treats she would be baking for Sunday fellowships. She held a very special place in her heart for feeding others; while exploring new recipes from her cookbook collection.

Marilyn is survived by her husband Bob; children Ellyn, Glen and Joanie; grandchildren Karina, Robert and Elizabeth; and the other two musketeers, Ellen and Linda.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marion and Edna Moats, and brother Donald.

The Landreth Family is deeply appreciative of the love, support, and prayers that have been so generously given over the past few months. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. March 5 in the Weaverville New Apostolic Church, 311 Trinity Lakes Boulevard (Highway 3).

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

KATHY ADAMS

Join family and friends for a day of laughter, love and living with Kathy Adams on Saturday, March 5, at the North Fork Grange in Junction City. Adams passed away July 11, 2021.

Doors open at 2 p.m. Bring a dish and your best stories. For information call Pamela at 530-623-5831.

Fair planning underway for 2022

BY TONY REED THE TRINITY JOURNAL

The Trinity County Fair Board of Directors met Jan. 27 to listen to a review of 2021 and hear plans for 2022.

According to meeting minutes, staff has secured a carnival for the 2022 Fair. Wold Amusements of Hanford, Calif., will bring rides this year but has not committed to a multi-year contract. All-day wristbands will be $30 and 50 percent of proceeds will go to the Fair. Wold Amusements owner Jason Wold, estimated his fixed costs to be between $50,000 and $60,000, depending on fuel prices. Board members hoped to get the word out this year, so Wold can do better than breaking even.

The board was informed that entertainment will change up a bit as well, adding music and a hypnotist to the list. An artisan market for selling local and handmade products will also be offered.

The fair will occur earlier this year, as to hopefully avoid fire season. It may also make it easier for the board to secure events and entertainment, as other, larger fairs happen later in the season. The earlier date may affect the livestock show and auction, but it’s still being mulled whether to hold judging until a later date. This year’s fair will take place in Hayfork from July 14-17 with the theme “There’s No Time Like Fair Time.”

The board also named Donny Case to fill an open director’s position. Other nominees were Regina Smith and Wally Overturf. All other positions on the board remained as they were.

Students learn structure with newspapers

TRINITY JOURNAL STAFF

Mrs. Sharp’s STEAM class found another use for The Trinity Journal recently when they were given a challenge in structural mechanics. The rules were that they could only use newspapers and tape to create a structure that could hold a basketball without crushing itself. An extra layer of complexity was added when they were told it had to suspend the ball as high as possible off the base.

“STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art, and math,” said Mrs. Sharp. “I teach a STEAM elective one day a week for grades 4th-8th. I

OES clears burned properties for rebuilding

TRINITY JOURNAL STAFF

California Office Of Emergency Services has a goal of late spring to finish inspecting and clearing properties in 14 Northern California counties that were damaged by wildfires in 2020 and 2021.

According to OES information, 48 site assessments have been completed in Trinity County and 56 asbestos assessments have been done. The program has completed 13 debris removal projects and 614 asbestos removal projects in Trinity County.

While last month’s snow and rain storms slowed progress somewhat, the Consolidated Debris Removal Program continues, and reportedly passed 60 percent of affected California properties.

“To date, crews have removed burned metal, concrete, ash and contaminated soil from 1,054 properties,” and OES release states. “The 1,054 cleared properties represent 62 percent of the 1,698 properties in 14 counties participating in the full debris removal program. Another 378 properties are participating in the hazardous trees only element of the program.”

Property owners cannot start rebuilding until fire debris is removed from their properties and soil samples taken from the property meet state environmental health and safety standards, but under the program, participating property owners incurred no direct costs.

have 14 kids in my elective. We have different challenges each week where we have to create or build with limited materials.”

She said each design plan was tested and adjusted during the process.

Eighth-grader Cooper Sharp and 7th-grader Warren Brookshier won with a 39-inch-tall structure. The runner-up was 8th-grader Liam Nielsen-Ayres.

Fifth-grader Khale Rogers’ structure won for creativity.

“Some of our projects this year have been creating a marble maze, a Halloween candy catapult, and creating Popsicle stick helicopters,” Mrs. Sharp said.

Local, state and federal agencies inspected properties for threats, such as batteries, herbicides, pesticides, propane tanks, asbestos siding, and paints. In a second phase, those agencies conducted debris removal on properties with a Right-of-entry form filed with the county. Once verified clean, property owners can begin to rebuild.

“As of now, out of 68 properties in Trinity that were in the full program (from the 2021 fires), we removed structural and concrete, metal, ash and contaminated soil and trees on 14 of the 68 properties,” said OES information officer Greg Renick. Of those, two property owners opted to only have hazardous trees removed.

He said statewide, of 1,702 properties in the program, 1,116 have been cleared and certified for rebuilding.

Work on Trinity County properties damaged in the 2020 fires is nearly complete, with 196 of 209 participating properties cleared as of last October, Renick said.

“Our goal is to return all properties by the end of spring [2022], for 2021 fires,” he said, “but if we get inclement weather like we did a month ago, we will just keep working on it until we get the job done.”

CONTRIBUTED

Eighth-grader Cooper Sharp and 7th-grader Warren Brookshier won the weekly STEAM competition with a 39-inch-tall structure made of masking tape and Trinity Journals.

WATER: A dry start has many worried how low Trinity Lake will go

protested and got a sweet contract saying that if Shasta Lake has an inflow amount, they get 100 percent of the contracted amount,” he said, “and if it falls below 3.2 million acre-feet, they still get 75 percent (of the contracted amount).” He said even 75 percent is a “huge amount of water.”

The full study can be found at https:// watershed.ucdavis.edu/files/content/ news/WaterRights_UCDavis_study.pdf.

Temperature control

Should Stokely’s prediction come true, the county would face impacts to much more than just recreation.

Agriculture is not the only life supported by Trinity County water since there is much life in the water itself. River water has to be a certain temperature in order for salmon to survive, according to the Trinity River Restoration Program website. Stokely said that while 600,000 acre-feet is allocated for the Trinity River Record of Decision to keep water cool, a National Marine Fisheries Service requirement allows for that allocation to be cut further. He said 600,000 acre-feet is not adequate to protect fish, and in fact, problems start to occur when the amount goes below 750,000 acre-feet. Stokely said the result of under allocating water for temperature control could mean “a lot of dead fish.” He said even if the Bureau of Reclamation were to cut off flows to the Sacramento River, the river would still be quite warm and waters would also warm up near Lewiston.

“We’re in a world of hurt unless we get some kind of miracle,” he said.

He said there has been litigation and a new plan is being developed but it’s questionable whether the bureau will give priority to the fish or the water contracts. Stokely was not optimistic for the fish. Snow on the horizon

While a glance at the mountains seems to indicate that snow is disappearing from the peaks daily, a recent Trinity Alps snowpack survey by the Watershed Research and Training Center shows interesting results.

“The snowpack is unique right now,” according to an email from Joshua Smith of the WRTC. “It isn’t a ton of snow (or water content), but it does seem to be an extremely solid and durable base above 6,000 feet that will likely accumulate snow on top of it fast if we ever get some precipitation again.”

At Red Rock Mountain on Jan. 29, snow was 39 inches deep with a snow/ water equivalent of 15 percent, meaning 10 inches of snow would melt into 1.5 inches of water.

Measured on Jan. 30, the snow at Bear Basin measured 30.5 inches with a snow/ water equivalent of 11.5 percent.

Shimmy Lake showed the highest readings of 40.5 inches with a snow/water equivalent of 15.5 percent.

At this time last April, those measurements were 65 inches, 57 inches, and 60.5 inches, respectively. Historically, peak heights are observed in April. The immediate forecast from the National Weather Service shows no chance of rain into the coming weekend.

Predictions to date from the California Nevada River Forecast Center show lake levels continuing to drop since the last

rain/snow event in early January. The average lake level is about 1.1 million acre-feet of water and the current level is much lower at 839,000 acre-feet as of Feb. 4. The record low for the lake was 326,000 acre-feet in 2021, according to CNRFC.

Around the region, similar alarms are sounding. According to a release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, snowpack surveys showed promise during last month’s storms, but the snowpack in Klamath National Forest has since languished below the long-term seasonal average because of warmer weather.

“According to measurements taken for the February survey, the snowpack is at 62% of the historic average snow height (snow depth) and at 58% of the historic average Snow Water Equivalent (SWE, a measure of water content) across all survey points,” the USDA report states. “Historically, snowpack reaches its annual maximum by late-March/early-April.”

Officials at the Bureau of Reclamation are expecting the latest snow surveys next week. Elizabeth Hadley, deputy area manager for the Northern California BOR office, said those numbers are used to determine the water forecasts for area reservoirs, agriculture, hydropower and stream flows. She predicted that with the lack of rain in recent weeks, those forecasts will be dramatically different from last month’s.

A regional issue

Chances are that if Trinity Lake reaches dead pool, other hydropower reservoirs in Northern California would be in similar circumstances.

Asked last year what would happen if the lake got too low to generate power, Trinity Public Utilities District Manager Paul Hauser said the county is still guaranteed power from farther down the line.

“That’s why, to date, we have always been able to get all of our power from the Central Valley Project,” he said. “Even if Trinity Reservoir gets to dead pool and we can’t generate power, as long as all of the CVP reservoirs aren’t at dead pool we would still get federal hydropower and it would be shipped in over Western Area Power Association power lines.”

January saw almost no rain over Trinity County, and the immediate forecast doesn’t call for more yet in February.

Hauser said last week that if the lake were to drain to below the turbines that produce electricity, the Western Area Power Administration is contracted to procure power from another source. He said that power would come from Central Valley Project hydropower plants in the region, such as Shasta Lake. If those sources are unable to generate power, it would come from farther away over WAPA lines. He said that while the transition to another power source would be seamless, it could come at increased cost to the ratepayers. While the district charges a drought surcharge to cover that possibility, going outside of CVP sources could drive up the price.

“However, if we reach that point, it would be impactful to the state as a whole,” he said, noting that if Northern California hydropower sources cannot produce power, the high demand period and other factors could result in rolling blackouts across the state.

He explained that the inlet for the turbines is higher than it would be for the river, and a bypass gate would continue to allow water to pass through if it reached dead pool. However, Hauser said dead pool has not occurred in the history of the CVP, and if it happened at Trinity Dam,

Trinity County

Behavioral

the river would still flow as it did before the dam. As for the level at which that could happen, Hauser said he hopes the Bureau of Reclamation would enact water-saving measures long before that point to make the lake water last until next winter.

Health

is hosting the Mental Health Services Act Annual Community Planning Process.

Tuesday February 23, 2022 11:30am-12:30pm

Zoom meeting ID: 863 5369 5299

**In Person at Trinity County Veterans Hall, 11 Memorial Drive, Weaverville CA

Wednesday February 24, 2022 11:30am-12:30pm

Zoom Meeting ID: 894 9926 3413

**In Person at Hayfork Community Center 154B Tule Creek Road, Hayfork CA

Wednesday, February 24, 2022 3:30pm-4:30pm

Zoom Meeting ID: 850 2381 4083

**In Person at Southern Trinity School 600 Van Duzen Road, Mad River, CA

Thursday, February 25, 2022 5:30pm-6:30pm

Zoom Meeting ID: 884 0756 2473

**ZOOM ONLY

**All in person meetings will follow COVID protocols. Masks and social distancing required. Thank you for your cooperation

Mental Health Service Act (MHSA) Community Program Planning (CPP)

process is a requirement of the Mental Health Services Act to involve the public in the stakeholder process. Counties are required to involve the public in the formation of program plans and annual updates. Groups involved in the CPP process include consumers and their families, law enforcement, personal advocacy groups, and other local stakeholders. The information and findings about local level needs provides guidance in creating and updating the annual plan. If you cannot attend one of the meetings, please consider participating through survey monkey.

Comments or Questions?

Please Contact:

Crystal Bennett, Accountant III, Acting MHSA Coordinator Phone: 530-623-1825 Email: cbennett@trinitycounty-ca.gov

Survey Monkey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NGKVYKH

The Trinity Alps Marina near the Trinity Dam, with the lake level more than 140 feet from the crest.

Up and down week on the court

Final week of league play this week as teams prep for the playoffs; Trinity to open new gym Friday

BY RYAN GOGAN FOR THE TRINITY JOURNAL

Last week was an up and down one for both the varsity basketball squads at Trinity and Hayfork, though the Timberjacks boys team is now riding a five-game win streak, so it was a definitely up week for them.

The girls started the week off by losing a heartbreaker at home against Fall River on Tuesday, Feb. 1. Brynn Scribner and Aubrey Prunty combined for 40 points, but it wouldn’t be enough, as a last-second three-pointer would put the Bulldogs up 59-58 to end the game.

Like all good teams do, they moved on quickly, and finished the week off with two quality wins, 36-31 at Mount Shasta on Friday, Feb. 4, and 49-16 over Modoc at home on Saturday, Feb. 5.

Losing to Fall River knocked the girls out of league title contention, but they are still firmly in the playoff conversation, and look poised to make a run at the section title as the regular season approaches its conclusion this Friday.

Trinity boys basketball

The boys team stumbled a little bit, falling 70-44 to Fall River and 57-28 to Mount Shasta to begin the week. They ended things on a positive note though, scoring one of their highest point totals of the season in a thriller against Modoc, a 69-61 victory at home Saturday.

With two games left, the Wolves still are alive in the playoff race, and it may all come down to the final game of the season, which happens to be noteworthy for another reason.

Their final regular season game will be this Friday at home against Etna. And when I say “at home,” I truly mean at home. For the first time in more than three years the Wolves will be playing at the Trinity High School gym, now named the Cato-Davis Gym, after longtime Trinity coaches Terry Cato and Kyle Davis.

Whether the boys make the playoffs or not, Friday’s game will be a spectacular event for the team, as well as the community as the high school gym reopens after mold remediation and refurbishing.

Hayfork boys basketball

Monday, Feb. 7, The Timberjacks scored a 57-47 home victory over Tulelake for their fifth win in a row, pushing their record to 8-11 overall, 7-3 in league.

On Friday, Feb. 4, the Timberjacks were on the road to defeat Surprise Valley 5035.

Tuesday, Feb. 1, Hayfork defeated visiting Big Valley 41-27. The Timberjacks outscored the Cardinals in each quarter, taking a 23-17 halftime lead and a 30-19 lead after the third quarter.

Earlier, on Jan. 31, the Timberjacks were on the road again at Dunsmuir, defeating the Tigers 58-32.

Hayfork girls basketball

Monday evening’s score vs. Tulelake was unreported. The Lady Jacks sit at 6-13 overall, 5-4 in league.

On Friday, Feb. 4, Hayfork lost 38-33 at Surprise Valley. Jacey Pickett and Alexis Smith led the Lady Jacks with 10 points each; Pickett led the way on the board with nine rebounds.

Tuesday, Feb. 1, the Lady Jacks defeated Big Valley 41-34 at home. Smith led the way with 18 points and Madison Balbini contributed 11 points. Smith pulled down 10 rebounds, and Arabella Carini and Pickett added seven.

Earlier, on Jan. 31, the Hayfork girls were on the road again at Dunsmuir, defeating the Tigers 34-25. Balbini led the way with 13 points and Smith added nine. Smith and Pickett pulled down nine rebounds each.

On the road Jan. 29 at Happy Camp, Hayfork defeated the Indians 51-44. Smith exploded for 31 points, while Balbini added six. Smith pulled down 18 rebounds and Pickett 10.

SPORTS BRIEFS

Bowling highlights

Trinity Lanes, Weaverville

THURSDAY MORNING LADIES

WEEK 19, FEB. 3

High Scratch Series: Kathy Weiner 448, Lora Wheeler 429, Kathy Fox 414

High Scratch Game: Liz Ritz 158, Jane Draper 156, Karen Hammer 142

High Handicap Series: Charlene Griffith 666, Juliet Athos 661, Linda Wright 625

High Handicap Game: Denice Meissner 238, Angela Adrian 230, Kathy Reed 226

WEDNESDAY NIGHT ADULTS

WEEK 15, FEB. 2

Women’s High Scratch Series: Dixie Lafountain 454, Rhonda Miller 415, Sis Curran 380

Women’s High Scratch Game: Dixie Lafountain 169, Rhonda Miller 155, Fay Paterson 149

Women’s High Handicap Series: Dixie Lafountain 643, Rhonda Miller 613, Fay Paterson 583

Women’s High Handicap Game: Dixie Lafountain 232, Jennie Stone 227, Fay Paterson 222

Men’s High Scratch Series: Bill Healy 493, Scott Quigley 468, Michael Carroll 465

Men’s High Scratch Game: Michael Carroll 195, Bill Healy 189, Cary Ables 180

Men’s High Handicap Series: Cary Ables 714, Scott Quigley 645, Michael Carroll 636

Men’s High Handicap Game: Cary Ables 266, Michael Carroll 252, Scott Quigley 230

TAGA results

Trinity Alps Golf Course, Feb. 4 1st: Terry Mardon, 59

2nd: Don Woodworth, 60

3rd: Marc Adrian, 61 Closest to the pin (#2): Dan Poulson, 12’5”

Pool League

Little League registration

Registration for the 2022 Trinity Little League season continues but the deadline is approaching.

Registration fee is $65. A $10 late fee will be applied to players not registered by Feb. 26. Trinity Little League’s 2022 regular season is March through May. TOC and All Stars will extend beyond the regular season.

Division/ages: T-Ball 4-6 years of age; Minor Farm 6-8 years; Minors 8-10 years; Majors 10-12 years.

To register you will need:

► Original and a copy of the player’s Certified Birth Certificate;

► Medical information including emergency contacts and phone numbers, insurance provider and policy number, and health history;

► Three documents providing residency if your child was not registered in public school by September 2021;

► Uniforms from last season if you forgot to turn it in.

High school sports schedule

Feb. 11: Trinity girls basketball vs. Etna*, V/JV, 4 p.m.

Feb. 11: Trinity boys basketball vs. Etna*, V/JV, 4 p.m.

Feb. 11: Hayfork girls basketball vs. Happy Camp*, 5 p.m.

Feb. 11: Hayfork boys basketball vs. Happy Camp*, 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 12: Trinity wrestling at Division 3/4 Championship, Durham HS

Feb. 15, 17, 22: Boys basketball playoffs

Feb. 16, 18, 23: Girls basketball playoffs

Feb. 18-19: Trinity wrestling at Masters Championship, TBA

Feb. 24-26: Trinity wrestling at Girls/ Boys State Championship *League game/match

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS STANDINGS

Evergreen League boys basketball

All volunteers will need to complete the volunteer application, including Social Security number, and a copy of your driver license.

Contact Stacie Pearce for more information; text her at 530-739-2247.

Seeking Bigfoot info

Author Tom Morris has been studying Bigfoot for years.

Morris asks hikers and hunters that if any incidents involving Bigfoot come up, to notify him on his landline at 925-930-8123; send him an email at tommorris@msn.com and put BIGFOOT in subject line; or send a report in to the Bigfoot Field Research Organization, www.bfro.net/GDB/submitfm.asp.

Hayfork's Kegan Xiong battles for a rebound vs. Big Valley.

WAYNE R. AGNER | THE TRINITY JOURNAL

Trinity’s Brian Thompson goes up for a scoop shot during Saturday’s 69-61 win over Modoc.

Trinity’s Kyle Cox drives in for a layup during Saturday’s 69-61 win over Modoc.

Trinity’s Brynn Scribner goes up for a short jump shoot in traffic during Saturday’s win over Modoc.

Trinity’s Grace Moodie goes up for a 3-pointer during Saturday’s win over Modoc.

Rec. basketball leagues halfway through season

BY GREG MACLAREN FOR THE TRINITY JOURNAL

Weaverville/Douglas City Parks & Recreation

District Youth Basketball League continued its 2022 season with the Mini & Pee Wee Divisions on Friday, Feb. 4, in the Recreation Hall. The JV Boys and JV Girls Divisions took the court on Sunday, Feb. 6, at Weaverville Elementary School.

WEEK 4 (FEB. 4 AND 6)

Mini Division (Pre-K), scoring was not kept as per league rules: The first game of the week took place in the “Minis” Division for Pre-K aged children. At 6 p.m. Bonnie Perkin’s team matched up with Cody Smith’s team for another exciting match up. At the midpoint of the season both teams are nearly unrecognizable from where they were at the beginning of the year. The final four weeks of the season will surely bring on more exciting developments.

Pee Wee Division (K-2nd graders), scoring was not kept as per league rules: After the Mini’s game, the Pee-Wees took the court at 6:30 p.m. with Sandy Faulkner’s Sheen Photography Warriors hosting Bethany Cantrell’s Nuggets. Concluding Friday night’s action at 7 p.m., the Up North Confectionary Mercantile Cavs who are coached by Melani Carpenter matched up with the visiting Herrett Excavating Pistons who are coached by Cody Smith.

JV Division Girls (3rd-5th graders): For the second week in a row, the JV Girl’s Division featured another thrilling fourth quarter. Entering the final six-minutes the Sparks led 6-0 and appeared to be in cruise-control on the way to victory; but with about three minutes to go the intensity ratcheted up noticeably between both teams. The Comets stole multiple passes and Mattie Dresselhaus converted two of those opportunities into points to cut the lead to 6-4. Unfortunately for the Comets, Hailee Hitzemann put their comeback hopes to an end with a jump shot from the middle of the key to seal the 8-4 Sparks victory. Mattie Dresselhaus scored all 4 of the Comet’s points, while the Sparks were led in scoring by Jazmine Kasper who scored 4 as well.

JV Division Boys (3rd-5th graders): The JV Boys Division tipped off Sunday’s action at 1:30 p.m. in the WES Gymnasium with a matchup between the Josh Smith’s Hayfork Bulls and Debbie Case’s Trinity Title Company Timberwolves in a game that featured an exciting fourth quarter of their own. The Bulls were able to come alive in the fourth quarter outscoring the Timberwolves 8-4, however it was too-little-too-late as the Timberwolves won this one 13-10. Keir Goodyear led all scorers with 8 points (six of which came in the first quarter) while Jaden Bayley and Chayce Smith shared the scoring load with 4 points apiece for the Bulls. The final game of the weekend was at 3 p.m. between the Plotzke Ace Hardware Wizards who are coached by DeWayne Reuman and the “visiting” Lakers who are coached by George Seele. The Lakers went wireto-wire in this one winning 14-7 thanks to a proficient second and fourth quarter where they doubled up the Wizards in scoring as well as limited the number of easy opportunities at the rim. Ivan Storckman led all scorers with 6 points for the Lakers. The Wizards were led in scoring by Andy Lievsay who totaled 3 points, two of which came off a difficult fadeaway runner.

Forest Service seeking temps, preparing meetings

BY JOSH COZINE THE TRINITY JOURNAL

The U.S. Forest Service is in need of temporary workers and has plans to hold several community meetings around the county before the year’s fire season starts up.

Tara Jones, district ranger with the Weaverville Ranger Station, appeared before the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Feb. 1, to discuss updates on national forest lands in the county.

Along with sharing the trouble of finding temporary workers so far this year, Jones shared some of the efforts being made to try and increase recruiting.

In hopes of increasing recruiting efforts, evening workshops open to the community were held Jan 31. and Feb. 1 in Weaverville and Hayfork respectively to help train anyone interested to learn the ins and outs of how to apply for government jobs like working for the Forest Service through usajobs.com. The training sessions were held in collaboration with the Smart Workforce Center and Trinity Together, an education-business based community partnership, Jones shared in an email to The Journal.

Jones also shared that as of the Feb. 1 Board meeting, the first round of hiring for the year for temporary workers had come and passed and numbers were lower than needed. The second round of hiring, she shared later, ended at the end of the day Monday, Feb 7, but results from that hiring round are still unknown at the time.

Jones shared more details in the same email about the present staffing issues for the Forest Service.

“The Shasta-Trinity National Forest is facing challenges with hiring our temporary workforce for the summer months. Typically, we have employees that augment our permanent workforce during the height of the field season. These employees fill out our Recreation, Wildlife, Timber, Fire, Botany and Archeology crews to perform critical field work. Like most organizations, we are having a difficult time filling some of these positions. These challenges are not unique to the Shasta-Trinity National Forest; other forests in Northern California are experiencing similar difficulties as well,” Jones’ email said. Anyone interested in working for the Forest Service should call at 530623-2121 to speak on current Forest

Service openings and their hiring process, Jones said.

The other big point of business shared during the presentation were planned community meetings to take place in April.

The community meetings currently being planned will take place April 5, 6 and 7 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Exact meeting locations are still being worked out, but the first meeting, April 5, will take place somewhere in Northern Trinity, Jones said, most likely somewhere in Coffee Creek or Trinity Center. The second meeting, April 6, will be held somewhere in Weaverville and the meeting April 7 will be somewhere in Burnt Ranch. Additionally, more meetings are being planned for somewhere in Hayfork and Hyampom at a date still to be determined.

“The intent is not only to share information, but to listen to the communities. With the fire season we had last year I got to be out in the communities and hear some of the concerns and priorities that were really affecting everyday life out here, and I want to make sure that we invest some time listening to our communities and hear what they want to see done on the national forests,” Jones said.

BLM to hold virtual public meetings to discuss OHV grant funds

The Bureau of Land Management welcomes anyone interested in off highway vehicle recreation on public lands to share ideas about the use of grant funding, when the BLM Northern California District hosts a virtual public meeting via Zoom, from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17. The meeting will be divided into three, one-hour segments for the Eagle Lake, Redding and Arcata field offices.

Representatives from each office will present information on their OHV programs and pending requests for grants from the state of California. Those interested in participating must register for the Zoom meeting at https://blm. zoomgov.com/webinar/ register/WN_whvFkmiGQ2C8Ifbhg2346A. Participants will receive information via email on how to log in to the meeting. Those registered can participate in the entire meeting, or just the field office sessions that interest them.

The Eagle Lake Field Office (Susanville), will present information, answer questions and hear comments from 3 to 4 p.m.; the Redding Field Office section is from 4 to 5 p.m. and the Arcata Field Office section is from 5 to 6 p.m.

“The BLM uses grant funds from the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division to improve off-highway riding and driving opportunities for our communities and visitors,” said BLM Northern California District Manager Dereck Wilson. “We appreciate hearing suggestions from those who enjoy off-highway vehicle sports on public lands.”

The public is invited to provide feedback to the BLM that will help identify new trails and redesign routes for better connectivity, find safer solutions for shared trails, provide greater public access, and

offer a more enjoyable experience. Anyone interested can review and comment on the preliminary applications from March 8 to May 7 by visiting the grants section at https:// ohv.parks.ca.gov.

Public comments or suggestions can be submitted by mail or email to the following offices:

► BLM Eagle Lake Field Office, 2550 Riverside Drive, Susanville, CA 96130, attention Marisa Williams; email: ;

► BLM Redding Field Office, 6640 Lockheed Drive, Redding, CA 96002, attention Sky Zaffarano; email: szaffara@blm.gov;

► BLM Arcata Field

Office, 1695 Heindon Road, 95521, attention Casey Hague; email: chague@ blm.gov.

Comments will be most helpful if received prior to the grant submission deadline of March 7.

In Northern California, BLM offices provide OHV recreation opportunities at the Fort Sage and Rice Canyon areas in Lassen County, at the Chappie-Shasta OHV Area in Shasta County, and at the Samoa Dunes Recreation Area in Humboldt County.

Additionally, OHV use is allowed on designated roads and trails through wildlands managed by the agency.

$6,000 for a product.”

“We issue a license, and for lack of a better term, that $6,000 cost is their product,” Kuhns said.

“Administratively we made a decision a while ago to not collect the $6,000 up front,” Kuhns said, citing issues of several people paying in full and not getting anything to show for it while the county was still trying to process the license.

Instead, Kuhns said, $2,500 was collected as an initial application fee, and $3,500 was collected after everything was completed.

“So even though $6,000 is for a product, the first $2,500 — whether we issue a license or not — staff is still going to incur those costs,” Kuhns said.

Cox then asked for clarification on if the prorate then would only come from the $3,500 portion of the $6,000 license cost and not from the entire total.

Kuhns then said that he would ask the board to consider whether or not the prorate should include the initial-fee portion of the funds or not as discussion continues.

Sup. Dan Frasier also pointed out that while cultivators were still allowed to sell their product until Oct. 31 of last year, the county issued provisional licenses had technically been deemed expired in September.

Check back later

Eventually, it was motioned for the item to come back and be seen again, along with more information, at the March 1 county Board of Supervisors meeting, but not before public comment was opened with more issues brought to the board.

Lisa Wright, a cannabis business consultant with Flowra out of Weaverville, brought forth concerns she saw with the potential language of the prorate.

“What we’re asking for is not for new applicants … but for renewal licenses to receive a prorated fee credit for what they paid,” Wright said. “The $2,500 is not relevant to the processing of a renewal, it’s for a new application.”

“The largest group of CCLs received extension letters, that’s the majority of our program,” Wright said. “We never received county permits, and they expired with the Urgency Ordinance in September 2021.”

She also brought up the fact that not all CCLs that became expired were provisional licenses, but that many were issued categorical exemptions and that better language could be added to include those that may not be included.

Her updated language, which she says encompasses more of the program and more license holders, would instead read:

“Authorize staff to issue prorated fee credit to commercial cannabis cultivators whose 12-month paid permit was prematurely ended due to the urgency ordinance expiration and/or the TAA lawsuit.”

Whereas the language presented in the agenda on Feb. 1 read:

“Authorize staff to issue a prorated credit to commercial cannabis cultivators holding non-expired provisional licenses on October 31, 2021.”

After more public comment, where everyone who spoke agreed with the sentiment of the prorate but not the full language of it, the item was brought back to the supervisors.

back-and-forth with Rader.

“If your times are posted from eight o’ clock to three o’ clock in the afternoon and someone turns up at 2:40 (p.m.) and you turn them away, I don’t think that’s right,” Gogan said.

“The attendants look at each load separately and if it’s a large load that they know from experience is not going to be unloaded in that time then they can generally make a pretty good guess that it’s not going to be completed at that point,” Rader said.

“But you told me it’s open till three (o’ clock),” Gogan said.

“Yes, so it’s 3 (o’ clock) to get unloaded,” Rader responded.

“Does it say that on the hours?” Gogan asked.

“It does on the website, and I need to put a sign up in that area in Weaverville, I haven’t gotten my signs updated yet and they do need to reflect that,” Rader answered.

“So, in the meantime, should you put 8 (o’ clock) to 2:30 (p.m.)?” Gogan asked.

“It generally takes a permitting change to change my hours of operation totally and to change the site hours is a process with the state,” Rader responded.

“I just think if you say you’re open from 8 (o’ clock) to 3 (o’ clock) that you should be open from 8 (o’ clock) to 3 (o’ clock), no matter how long it takes, because you can’t ask me to get off work and be there at 10 (minutes) to 3 (o’ clock) and I get turned away,” Gogan said.

“I do understand that,” Rader said. “I can work and see what else we can come up with.”

County Administrative Officer

Richard Kuhns later commented off of Sup. Gogan’s comment about not closing early to turn people away, reminding the board that additional overtime adds to costs which can drive up Solid Waste fees. Anytime fees are hinted at being raised, he said, residents threaten to not pay and instead say they’ll just dump their trash somewhere else, like forest land.

“We will get, I promise you, dozens and dozens of people that will say if we raise it I‘m just gonna dump all my stuff in the woods,” Kuhns said.

Rader later told The Journal that she had checked with the Environ-

mental Health Department Director who cleared it with CalRecycle — the state agency that could grant an earlier closure time — and that she was permitted to adjust posted hours to close a half-hour earlier if needed.

Before any decision is made, she said she first wants to have a meeting with her staff to talk about the logistics of closing early before posting any new signs or online announcements, but as of Tuesday, Feb. 8, she had been unable to hold such a meeting.

Bin shortages, recycling, e-waste

Sup. Jeremy Brown then asked about garbage bin problems in Burnt Ranch.

“Can we just get some new above ground bins, like are they available for purchase in the state of California?” Brown asked, “are they back ordered?”

“I have a set of bins that we ordered in April that were delivered in December,” Rader said. She also noted that some of the old bins had been moved out for repair and added that she didn’t know the specifics of Burnt Ranch bins status but that they were in the process of being fixed.

“That’s probably one of the main things my constituents reach out to me about is when can we get new bins?” Brown said.

Brown then asked about the status of recycling in the county.

“I’m told people have to drive to Redding to do their recycling,” Brown said.

Rader said at the meeting that she had heard that Bigfoot Recycling had taken over the old Trinity Recycling site on Davis Road. She later said to The Journal that she had checked and the site seems to be in operation again.

Sup. Keith Groves then asked about e-waste.

“E-waste, I was a little confused,” Groves said, “are we taking e-waste now, or we’re not?”

“We have not been taking e-waste because we’re full on that,” Rader said

I guess my thought here is, we’re not functioning the way I think everybody would like us to function,” Groves said. “How do we help you get this program going?”

“I’m not asking for an answer today,” Groves added, “but I would surely like to have you come to us

Trinity County COVID-19

Mobile Vaccination Clinics

with some ideas to make things better and then we can decide if we can do those things for you or not.”

“I agree, it’s not working the way that it is, and we really need to come up with some better way to do it,” Rader said. She also said that she has plans to look at all the programs and evaluate what can and can’t be done with e-waste and all Solid Waste Programs during the next budgeting period.

Next, Sup. and Chairperson Dan Frasier took a turn, asking about bin maintenance and closures at the Ruth Transfer Site.

“My question is on maintenance on dumpsters at the Ruth Transfer Station,” Frasier said, “I get a lot of comments, people who drive all the way from Kettenpom and they get there at noon on Sunday — which is the day it’s open — and it’s closed when it’s supposed to be open to four, because the dumpsters are full and they only have half their dumpsters operational.

“It’s especially bad in the summer… so what is the plan to get those fixed,” Frasier asked.

Rader responded by mentioning Ruth is in the same boat as Burnt Ranch with needing dumpster repairs and that her staff is working to get them repaired.

“With Ruth specifically, remember that Van Duzen (transfer site) is not a terrible long distance and they’re open different days than Ruth if you can’t hold until the next time Ruth is open,” Rader said.

Frasier then mentioned angry emails from constituents from his district the same as Burnt Ranch and asked what the board could do to help.

“If there’s anything I can do to help, don’t be afraid to reach out,” Frasier said.

Rader ended by informing the board of Solid Waste’s 199 extension people can call to get the status of the different county transfer sites before they drive out to possibly find them closed.

“If you dial 530-623-1326, which is our main line… and dial 199, and it’s a pre-recorded message,” Rader said.

She also said the department does its best to keep the message timely updated of all closures, but that sometimes the more remote sites may not always be updated.

Thursday February 10, 2022 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Thursday February 10, 2022 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday February 11, 2022

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday February 12, 2022

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday February 15, 2022

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday February 16, 2022 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday February 16, 2022 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

North Fork Grange Hall (SnapNurse) 131 Dutch Creek Rd. Junction City

Douglas City Fire Dept. (SnapNurse) 100 Steiner Flat Rd. Douglas City

Hayfork Community Center (SnapNurse) 154 Tule Creek Rd. Hayfork

Trinity County Library (SnapNurse) 351 Main St. Weaverville

Lewiston Fire Dept. (SnapNurse) 200 Texas Ave. Lewiston

Veteran’s Memorial Hall (SnapNurse) 109 Memorial Dr. Weaverville

Critter Creek Campground (TCPHB) 40770 HWY 36W Wildwood

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PCR Self-Test Kit Pick-up only (Age 18yrs. & older)

Rapid Antigen and/or PCR Lab Test (Age 2yrs. & older)

Rapid Antigen and/or PCR Lab Test (Age 2yrs. & older)

Rapid Antigen and/or PCR Lab Test (Age 2yrs. & older)

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Rapid Antigen and/or PCR Lab Test (Age 2yrs. & older)

Rapid Antigen and/or PCR Lab Test (Age 2yrs. & older)

PCR Self-Test Kit Pick-up only (Age 18yrs. & older)

TRINITY LIFE AND COMMUNITIES

A bird built for winter – our local grouse

I first encountered a grouse in the winter a few years ago. We were working in the woods with a light dusting of snow. I was thinning some dogwoods and small firs as part of our fuels reduction work. I had that odd feeling that I was being watched, and not by Carol who was doing a burn pile. It was that feeling folks describe right before they see the mountain lion on the hill above them, but in my case, it was a Ruffed Grouse. It was standing about 2 feet away.

Every time I cut a dogwood and it fell to the ground, the grouse would scurry up and pick the red berries from the bush. When I stopped to refuel, it followed me and stood by waiting. It followed me all day, even back to the truck when we were wrapping up. I considered it a great treat, because a grouse’s plumage is really great camouflage and grouse are known for being quite secretive. Getting those dogwood fruit must have been a treat. Their winter diet includes the buds of deciduous trees and very fibrous vegetation. In fact, they have specialized pouches in their digestive system. Grouse love a wide range of leaves and fruits when they are in season, like strawberries from my garden, and I see them gobbling up bits and pieces of tiny rocks and sand — grit for their gizzards, which grind up the tougher food they eat, just like barnyard chickens.

They are adapted to winter, and are most common in far northern North America, with their range just extending into northwestern California. One of those adaptations is on their feet. They actually grow projections along the sides of their toes that act like snowshoes.

Ruffed Grouse will roost in dense stands of conifers to protect themselves from the cold and at times will simply bury themselves in the snow.

Ruffed Grouse are like other grouse. They have a very distinctive mating display called drumming. On early morning walks in the spring, I always hear a sound much like a motor trying to start. That is the drumming. It is the male’s attempt to attract a mate. The bird quickly rotates its wings forward and backward causing air to rush under the wings creating a vacuum that generates a thumping sound that be heard for up to a quarter of a mile.

Like related birds (quail, pheasants and turkey) Ruffed Grouse nest on the ground. It is a simple depression of grasses somewhat protected by overhanging stumps or vegetation, but open enough to spot predators. Turkeys sometimes parasitize the nests laying their eggs in the grouse’s nest. The chicks are precocial, meaning they are running around and feeding themselves within 24 hours of hatching.

You say, the grouse you have seen don’t look like that Ruffed Grouse — no little top knot of feathers and the bird you saw has a longer neck. Well, that is because we also have the Sooty Grouse. It once was called the Blue Grouse. The Sooty Grouse of the Pacific Coast was once linked to the Dusky Grouse of the Rockies as the “Blue

Grouse,” but now they are viewed as two species. The Sooty Grouse is one of the largest grouse in North America, with only sage grouse being larger. Sooty Grouse like forested areas from old growth with open gaps to regenerating forests that were logged or burned, but they don’t like densely closed forests. They have feeding habits similar to the Ruffed Grouse, but tend to feed on conifer needles, especially Douglas fir, in the winter. Sooty Grouse have their own version of drumming to attract mates. Instead of picking a prime spot on the ground to “drum,” they drum from a perch in a tree. Females respond with a soft cackle drawing the male to the ground. Here he puffs up his plumage, fans his tail and exposes yellow sacs on the side of his neck. Males will aggressively attack compet-

Efforts take shape to restore the old Lewiston Congregational Church

Lewiston has several wonderful historical gems and one of them is the old Lewiston Congregational Church at the intersection of Schoolhouse and Goose Ranch Roads overlooking the historic downtown of Lewiston. It peers over the picket fence at the Pioneer Cemetery and has a stellar view of the old one-lane bridge. It’s a jewel in the Lewiston community. And it needs your help.

Time has not been kind to this historical structure. The soffits on the steeple have disintegrated and pieces blow off in the winds. The front porch is pulling away from the main structure and needs to be repaired. There are other areas where the wood has rotted away and needs to be replaced. It is badly in need of a new coat of paint.

According to the book, Trinity County Historic Sites, published by Trinity County Historical Society 1981, this was the first Protestant Church in Trinity County. It was organized in 1889. In 1896 the Church incorporated and decided to erect a building where they could worship and the new church was dedicated on Nov. 1, 1896. The church was in use until 1958, when due to the influx of workers for the Trinity and Lewiston dams, a larger church was needed, and was built on Viola Road. The vacant old church was used as a classroom until the new Lewiston Elementary School was completed. Once the

kids moved to the new school, the church became a sort of community storeroom.

In 1969 there was the possibility that the church would either be moved from Lewiston or demolished. Not wanting to see that happen, Carl and Marjorie (Van Matre) Steffens purchased the property and deeded it to the Lewiston Community Services District.

In April 1989, the First Congregational Church of Lewiston was included within the Lewiston Historical District and placed on the National Registry for Historic Buildings. And, like many historical buildings it sat and languished. Admired, but ignored.

The LCSD just does not have the funds to maintain this building. The LCSD focuses on keeping the community safe by making sure they have proper equipment for the Lewiston Fire Department. They also provide maintenance at the Community Park and now maintain a sewer plant. Over the past years, various other groups, organizations, and individuals in Lewiston have talked about doing something about the church but none have come to fruition.

It’s time for the community of Lewiston and other historical buffs to take it on themselves “to get it done.” Motivated by resident Julia Mitchell and her architect father Jim Mitchell, she and Katie Quinn have decided this is the time. Six years ago, Jim Mitchell asked that for his birthday he would like donations to the LCSD to help fix this revered icon of Lewiston. At that time there was no project to make this happen. Time passed. Then Jim passed away a year ago of pancreatic cancer. His daughter Julia wants to honor his request and for his birthday this year, she wanted to get this project up and running. She approached Katie and they decided, with permission from the LCSD, to move forward.

They contacted a local contractor about getting bids to fix what could be fixed to keep the building from falling apart. The work would include repairing the area holding up the steeple, the steps and porch, other trim and siding as well as a coat of paint. This phase of the project is just for external fixes. The church will still not be open to the public. The next phase is to have an engineer review the church to see what can be done to allow the building to be used and opened. Mitchell and Quinn have no doubt that this community wants to keep this local icon solid and present. They just need money to make it happen. Based on his bids, they are moving forward with a GoFundMe page, PayPal donations and donations made directly to the LCSD.

Every dollar makes a difference. Give up a $20 pizza for a week; or a $50 night out – just once. Your donations will add up. They will make a difference. You can donate at GoFundMe oldlewistonchurch (https://gofund.me/ c1c2c0fe), via PayPal at oldlewistonchurch@gmail.com or by sending a check to the LCSD, marked for CHURCH to P.O. Box 164, Lewiston, CA 96052. Contact Quinn at mskatiequinn@gmail.com or 530778-3307 for additional information.

ing males, giving “Blue Grouse” a reputation for aggressiveness.

That reminds me of an encounter with such a Blue Grouse. We were hiking along the south rim of the Grand Canyon. There was a sign at the trailhead advising us that the trailhead had been re-routed to avoid an aggressive Blue Grouse. We joked about the “killer blue grouse” and headed down the trail following the re-route flagging, but even then, the grouse displayed, fanning and chasing us a bit to stay clear of its territory. It was quite unsettling and something I even thought about this past week when I saw a female Sooty Grouse crossing Highway 3 near Trinity Center.

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■

A final note about birds. The annual Great Backyard Bird Count will happen Feb. 18-21. This annual event is a great way to help scientists learn about how our feathered friends are doing. To get us in the mood, the Conservation District will be organizing two bird walks that weekend — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Weaver Basin Wetlands in Weaverville and the same time Sunday at the Trinity River Hatchery in Lewiston. For more information call Maya Williams at 623-6004.

Local Great Backyard Bird Counts this month

Join local Shasta College instructor and birding expert Pat Frost for two Birding Days in February to identify, celebrate, and learn about birds! The events will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, at the Weaver Basin Wetlands on Industrial Parkway in Weaverville and on Sunday, Feb. 20, at the Trinity River Hatchery in Lewiston.

People of all ages and birding skill levels are welcome to attend. Binoculars and bird guides will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis, but please bring your own if you have them. Light refreshments will be provided.

The Birding Days are part of the 2022 Great Backyard Bird Count which is taking place Feb. 18-21. This is the 25th year of the international citizen science event that aims to help scientists understand global bird populations prior to migration. If you would like to record bird sightings from your backyard or other places in Trinity County go to birdcount.org for more information.

Please direct questions to Maya of the Trinity County RCD at 530-623-6004, ext. 214, or mwilliams@ tcrcd.net.

Come learn about Trinity County’s complex fire history

Trinity County has seen more than its fair share of fire in the last couple of years, but was this always the case? Tim Ritchey, assistant district fire management officer with the U.S. Forest Service, Shasta-Trinity National Forest will lead a discussion into Trinity County’s complex fire history at the next historical society meeting on Saturday, Feb. 12.

Tree ring and fire scar data may provide some insight into the fire history of Trinity County and provide answers for the future.

The meeting and potluck start at 2 p.m., followed by the program at 3 p.m. at the Baptist Church in Weaverville. All members of the public are invited, and if you would like to join the historical society, they will have applications available. Please come and enjoy the program.

For information, you may contact Trinity County Historical Society at 530-623-5211, www.trinitymuseum.org.

PAT FROST | FOR THE TRINITY JOURNAL

Above: Ruffed Grouse Below: Sooty Grouse in garden

Arbor Week poster contest underway

Arbor Week will kick off March 7-14 for its annual celebration of trees. Trinity Arts & Crafts Supply Co. invites children ages 5-12 to participate in the Arbor Week poster contest. This year’s theme is “Trees Bring Us Together.”

All artwork may be dropped off at Trinity Arts & Crafts Supply Co., 30891 Highway 3, Weaverville, no later than 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 12. All postage will be paid for on your child’s behalf.

For more information contact Michelle Myers, Trinity Arts & Crafts Supply Co., at 530-623-1692.

Friends of the Library to meet

Trinity County Friends of the Library will meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16, in the Trinity County Library, Weaverville.

Peddlers’ Faire seeking vendors

The 2022 Old Lewiston Peddlers’ Faire, set for Saturday, June 4, is now accepting applications for Food and Antique/Craft/Collectible vendors. This one-day event attracts thousands of people who love to visit the quaint historic town of Lewiston, located on the banks of the Trinity River.

Applications can be downloaded at www.lewistonsparkies.com under the Peddlers’ Faire button. Contact Tina Teuscher at tinateuscher@yahoo.com or 530-778-3855 for more vendor information.

Red Cross seeks volunteers

American Red Cross Everyday Heroes, your community needs you. Your community needs local Red Cross volunteers.

Free, self-paced training takes approximately nine hours. Help your neighbors during emergencies and natural disasters.

For more information contact the Red Cross at 916-396-4449 or email kera.manley@redcross.org. For local support contact Andrew at 707-273-8481.

THURSDAY, FEB. 10

HAYFORK Off Beat Bargains, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Roderick/Hayfork Senior Center.

Trinity County State of Jefferson group meeting, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Hayfork Community Church.

LEWISTON Lewiston Lions Club, 8 a.m. breakfast meeting, Mountain Valley Grill.

TRINITY CENTER

Trinity Lake Lions, IOOF Hall, 7 p.m.

WEAVERVILLE

Domestic Violence Support Group, Weaverville. Call HRN at 6232024 for meeting place and further information.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) No. 1846, 10 a.m., Canterbery Hall, 102 Church St. Blue Barn at Golden Age Center open 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Main Street Gallery Board of Directors meeting, noon at the gallery, 490 Main St. Open to the public.

(NA) Weaverville, noon, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 2150 Main St. Rotary Club of Weaverville, noon, Trinity Alps Golf Course & Country Club Restaurant.

Indivisible Trinity County, 5:30 p.m., Young Family Ranch, Oregon St.; public welcome.

WILLOW CREEK

(AA) Willow Creek, 7 p.m., Willow Creek Family Resource Center. FRIDAY, FEB. 11

DOUGLAS CITY

Soup Kitchen To-Go Pick Up, noon to 2 p.m., D.C. Fire Station parking lot.

HAYFORK

Off Beat Bargains, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Roderick/Hayfork Senior Center.

(AA) Hayfork, 7 p.m., “Big Book” 12 x 12 Study, Solid Rock Church on Tule Creek Road and Hwy. 3. Eddie at 638-6716.

LEWISTON

Bingo, Lewiston Moose Lodge, 6 p.m.

(AA) Lewiston, 7 p.m., Lewiston Community Center, 130 Texas Ave. WEAVERVILLE

Trinity Alps Golf Association, 11 a.m. at the Trinity Alps Golf Course, weather permitting.

Blue Barn at Golden Age Center open 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Soup Kitchen, noon to 2 p.m., at Mountain Chapel, 60 Oak Ridge Road. Deliveries available (Weaverville only), 623-3933 or soupkitchen@mountainchapelca.com.

(NA) Weaverville, noon, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 2150 Main St. Caregiver Support meeting, 3 to 5 p.m. at the Office of Education conference room, 201 Memorial Drive. Maggie at 221-1900.

(AA) Weaverville, 6 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 2150 Main St.

WEAVERVILLE

SATURDAY, FEB. 12

(NA) Weaverville, 9 a.m., Weaverville Fire Hall, 125 Bremer St. Blue Barn at Golden Age Center open 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Food Bank Commodities Distribution at the Food Bank Warehouse, 51-B Memorial Drive, 11 a.m. to noon.

Trinity County Historical Society monthly meetings, 2 p.m. potluck, 3 p.m. presentation, at the Baptist Church, 1261 Main St. Cribbage Club, all levels welcome, 4:30 p.m., Tangle Blue Saloon, Keith at 524-3445.

SUNDAY, FEB. 13

Hyampom Animal Clinic

HAYFORK

Trinity Horse and Long Ears Trail Rides, weather dependent. Time and place varies, check calendar on www.trinityhorseandlongears.com.

MAD RIVER

(AA) Mad River, 2 p.m. at the Mad River Fire Hall.

WEAVERVILLE

(AA) Weaverville, 9 a.m., Lowden Park Cook Shack, 230 Washington St. Church in the park, Weaverville, 10 a.m., Lee Fong Park.

WILLOW CREEK

(AA) Willow Creek, 9:30 a.m. at the Family Resource Center.

MONDAY, FEB. 14

BURNT RANCH (AA), Burnt Ranch, 6 p.m., Burnt Ranch Indian Hall, Veterans Hall Rd.

HAYFORK Free Community Lunch, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Solid Rock Church on Tule Creek Road, 628-1168.

TRINITY CENTER (AA) Northern Lites group, 5:30 p.m. at Old Red Fire House, Scott Boulevard next to IOOF Hall. 227-1725.

WEAVERVILLE (NA) Weaverville, noon, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on HWY 299.

Trinity Hospital Auxiliary, 1 p.m., Trinity Hospital Administration lunch room.

American Red Cross, Weaverville, 7 p.m., Trinity County Library conference room. 605-6034.

TUESDAY, FEB. 15

HAYFORK Off Beat Bargains, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Roderick Senior Center.

American Legion, Trinity Post 463, VFW Hall, Hayfork, 7:30 p.m.

LEWISTON

Women of the Moose, business meeting, Moose Lodge, 7:30 p.m.

SALYER

(AA) Salyer, 7 p.m., Salyer Wayside Chapel on Highway 299.

WEAVERVILLE Weaverville Lions Club, 7 a.m., County schools meeting room. Dave at 623-6600. Blue Barn at Golden Age Center open 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

(NA) Weaverville, noon, Just for Today, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on Highway 299.

Soroptimist weekly meetings, 1 p.m. at Asian Cuisine, 625 Main St. Weaverville Cemetery Association, 5:15 p.m., Human Response Network, 113 Mountain View.

(AA) Weaverville, 6 p.m., “Last House on the Block,” Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Trinity Nuggets RV Club, 6 p.m., Bonnie Yingling at 515-0246. New members and guests welcome.

Trinity Gem and Mineral Society monthly meeting/potluck, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lapidary School, 550 N. Washington St. THIRD WEDNESDAY, FEB. 16

DOUGLAS CITY Douglas City Fire Belles, potluck at noon, meeting 1 p.m.

HAYFORK Hayfork Rotary meeting, 7 a.m., Casa de Castellanos, 628-4667.

Log Cabin Quilters, Hayfork, 9 a.m., Roderick/Hayfork Senior Center, 739-5718.

Off Beat Bargains, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Roderick/Hayfork Senior Center.

(AA) Hayfork, 7 p.m., Solid Rock Church at Tule Creek Road and Highway 3. Eddie at 638-6716.

MAD RIVER

(AA) Mad River, 6 p.m., Mad River Fire Hall.

WEAVERVILLE Community Food Cupboard, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Trinity Congregational Church, 735 Main St.

Blue Barn at Golden Age Center open 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

(NA) Weaverville, noon, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 2150 Main St.

Mid-week Fellowship, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Center for Christian Living. Call for location, 598-0679.

Non-denominational Christian Worship and Fellowship meeting, 12:30 to 2 p.m. at 442 Glen Road. The Center for Christian Living & Let Go and Soar Ministries, 598-0679.

Trinity County Neighborhood Watch, 1:30 p.m., Sheriff’s office.

Trinity County Resource Conservation District meeting, 5:30 p.m., RCD conference room, #3 Horseshoe Lane.

Open Bible Study, 6 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 623-2311.

(AA) Weaverville, 6:30 p.m., “Trinity Alps Group,” St. Patrick Catholic Church, 102 Church St., downstairs.

WILLOW CREEK

(AA) Willow Creek, 6 p.m., “Celebrate Recovery,” Willow Creek Faith Center.

■ ■ ■

Club officials are encouraged to keep their listings current. Please e-mail any changes to calendar@trinityjournal.com

CCCU spring Community Investment Program open

Coast Central Credit Union has announced that the spring 2022 round of its Community Investment Program is now open. $100,000 is available to support local organizations throughout its tri-county area. Grant amounts generally range from $3,000 to $25,000, and there are usually 8 to 12 recipients. The giving program was created in 2008, and since then has awarded more than $1.7 million to 175 organizations throughout Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity counties. Recent grant recipients have included Cooperation Humboldt, Orleans Volunteer Fire Department, and Weaverville Parks & Recreation District.

CCCU typically contributes over $400,000 in annual community giving through its grant, sponsorship, and college scholarship programs, as well of thousands of

volunteer hours throughout its three counties. Through banking with CCCU, individuals and businesses directly support these efforts.

Applications and more information may be obtained online at coastccu.org under the Community tab, or by contacting Coast Central’s VP of Marketing & Communications Colleen Toste at 707-445-8801, ext. 1309, or ctoste@ coastccu.org. The deadline is 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 28, and applications are due to Humboldt Area Foundation, either via email at grants@hafoundation.org or mailed to 363 Indianola Road, Bayside CA 95524. A committee comprised of credit union staff will review all completed applications and then make recommendations to Coast Central’s Board of Directors, which ultimately approves the grants. The board’s decisions will be announced by mid-April.

New Clean California incentives for adopt-a-highway

Caltrans is expanding the Clean California incentive program statewide and offering up to $250 per month to Adopt-A-Highway volunteers who pick up litter along state highways. The expansion comes after a successful pilot in the Sacramento and San Diego regions that added 230 new highway adoptions in just three months.

& 3-5 pm Sat. 7:30-12, Sun. 3-5 pm 530-623-0060

We offer a nice selection of leashes, collars, harnesses, toys, dog coats, and sweaters.

Lewiston Animal Clinic Medicine - Surgery - Dentistry

Part of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s California Comeback Plan, Clean California is a sweeping $1.1 billion multiyear effort to remove trash, create thousands of jobs and engage communities to transform roadsides into places of public pride. Since July 2021, Caltrans has collected more than 5,600 tons of litter – enough to fill 103 Olympic-size swimming pools – and made more than 500 new hires and another 290 conditional job offers. The Governor’s California Blueprint proposes $100 million to expand the Clean California Local Grant Program into 2023-24, which provides grants to cities, counties, transit agencies, tribal governments and other government agencies to beautify their communities and remove trash and debris.

Adopt-a-Highway volunteers help create cleaner and more beautiful roadsides by removing litter, planting trees and flowers, clearing graffiti, and thinning overgrown vegetation, and also help prevent litter and other pollutants from entering state waterways through stormwater drains. Whether completed by an individual or group, Caltrans will award up to $250 per month for activities such as:

► $250 for clearing litter on both sides of a highway

► $62.50 for clearing litter from each ramp, or $250 for all four ramps

► Up to $250 for cleanup activities at other locations, such as along bike paths or park-and-ride facilities.

Caltrans will require adoptees to submit information –including date, location, amount of trash collected, number of volunteers, hours worked and pictures – following eligible cleanup activities to receive a stipend. State employees and their families are welcome to participate in the Adopt-a-Highway program but are not eligible to receive stipends.

Since its inception in 1989, more than 120,000 Californians have cleaned and enhanced more than 15,000 shoulder-miles of roadside through the Adopt-A-Highway Program. The volunteer incentive stipends augment the overall goals of Clean California by providing Caltrans additional resources to maintain and beautify the state’s roadways.

There is no cost to participate in the Adopt-A-Highway program. As part of the program, Caltrans installs signs displaying the name of the person, family, organization, or business on all segments of adopted highway. Volunteers interested in participating in the Adopt-A-Highway Program can call 866-ADOPTAHWY (866-236-7824) or visit CleanCA.com for more information.

CONTRIBUTED

Up for bid at Highland Art Center’s annual Scholarship Auction: “Late in the Day, Oregon Coast” by Hal Oleari.

Annual scholarship auction underway

The month of February will feature the annual Scholarship Auction Exhibit at the Highland Art Center in Weaverville. Quality artworks in many mediums will be available to bid on and all proceeds will be given to a local art student in pursuit of higher art education. This is a popular yearly event where great bargains can be had and a noble cause advanced.

Don’t miss the Valentine’s boutique. Lots of great gift ideas for honoring that special someone in your life.

Consider supporting Summer Day Camp

Founded in 2007, Weaverville Summer Day Camp provides fun, outdoor experiences to Trinity County youth, The camp runs for three weeks in July at the historic Young Family Ranch in Weaverville.

Campers aged 6-12 have the opportunity to raft the Trinity River, explore the local forest and watershed, try their hand at gardening, express their creativity, gain outdoor skills, make friends, and learn from community members.

Donations play an essential part in helping to make summer camp possible. Please consider supporting this important youth program by donating to Weaverville Summer Day Camp.

Online donations can be made at youngfamilyranch. org/daycamp.htm.

Checks should be made payable to Trinity County RCD with “Summer Camp” in the description, and mailed to:

Trinity County RCD

Attn. Summer Camp

P.O. Box 1450 Weaverville CA 96093

Ukranian Pysanky class March 5

Celebrate the art of Ukranian Pysanky (egg decorating) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at the Junction City Community Hall. $25 includes supplies, lunch and snacks.

For reservations call Bonnie at 530-623-5811. Send checks for JC Fire Jills c/o Lucy DeMaris, P.O. Box 38 Junction City, CA 96048.

For fully vaccinated participants only. Proceeds benefit the Junction City VFD, hosted by the JC Fire Jills. Unleash the artist within. All levels welcome.

Cooking club classes begin

A new cooking club with instructors Robin Day and Leah May will take place at DreamQuest, 100 County Club Drive in Willow Creek. Current schedule calls for classes from 4:30 t0 6:30 p.m. every Thursday and two Tuesdays a month. $5 suggested donation.

For registration and inquires call 530629-3564, or email ktallard@dqwc.org.

Shasta College theatre program returns to the stage with ‘Mr. Burns’

This March sees the return of Shasta College’s mainstage theatre program with a production of Anne Washburn’s “Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play,” a wildly imaginative dark comedy that propels us forward nearly a century, following a new civilization stumbling into its future.

After an apocalyptic event that sees the total collapse of the electrical grid, a group of survivors share a campfire and begin to piece together the plot of the Simpsons episode “Cape Feare” purely from memory. Seven years later, this and other snippets of pop culture (sitcom plots, commercials, jingles, and pop songs) have become the live theatrical entertainment of an emerging society trying to hold onto its past.

Seventy-five years after that, they have become the archetypal myths and legends from which new modes of performance are created.

“Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

This production is directed by Dr. Greg Thorson, with musical direction by Dr. Liz Waterbury, costumes by Hilary Fahey, and makeup by Mat McDonald, and stars Jeremiah Follette-Dangerfield, Ashley Olson, Faythe McDonald, Simon Knopf, Raina Kunde, Sunny Martinez, Megan Pittman, and Phillip Patterson.

Evening performances are scheduled on March 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12 at 7 p.m. while Sunday matinée performances are scheduled on March 6 and 13 at 2 p.m. Tickets will be priced at $13 for general admission, with $10 senior and $5 student tickets available, and will be available online or at the door.

For more information or to make an online purchase, visit shastacollege.edu/tickets.

NEED COPIES IN A HURRY?

The Trinity Journal makes Copies faster than you can say “Peter Rabbit!”

Hop on over and get your copies today at 500 Main St., Weaverville

Some events may be canceled or postponed due to weather or the most current COVID-19 protocols.

Weekly

►Open mic night, 4 to 7 p.m. Thursdays at the Trinity County Brewing Company, 301 Main St., Weaverville. Hosted by Yantra.

►Trinity Alps Golf Association, weekly 18-hole tournament every Friday morning at 11 a.m., weather permitting, Trinity Alps Golf Course in Weaverville. All golfers with an established handicap are welcome.

Calendar

Feb. 11: JC Fire Jills Valentine Bake Sale, front of Junction City Store, 9 a.m. to noon. Fundraiser for JC Volunteer Fire Department.

Feb. 11: Douglas City Fire Belles Valentine’s Bake Sale, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Douglas City Post Office, 140 Steiner Flat Road.

Feb. 12: Hayfork High School Senior Class Valentine’s Dinner by U-Rok Bakery, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Fairgrounds dining hall, Hayfork. $50 couple. Reservations required no later than Monday, Feb. 7, at 530-628-5223.

Feb. 12: Trinity County Fair Valentine’s Las Vegas Night, 9 to 11 p.m. at the Fairgrounds dining hall, Hayfork. Free entrance; must be 18 to play. Buy prizes with your winnings. Cocktails and music.

Feb. 19: VFW Breakfast, 8 to 11 a.m. at the Weaverville Veterans Memorial Hall and Hayfork’s VFW Hall.

Feb. 19: Great Backyard Bird Count, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Weaver Basin Wetlands on Industrial Parkway in Weaverville. Maya at TCRCD, 530-623-6004, ext. 214, or mwilliams@tcrcd.net.

Feb. 19: Barn Fire playing at Brews & Screws, 22517 Hyampom Road, Hyampom, at 9 p.m. Barn Fire is a classic and original honkytonk band out of Blue Lake. Brews & Screws will be doing $5.50 Whiskey Sour or Whiskey Ginger Special and $2 Domestic Can Beer Special for the night. There will be a $10 cover per person to help cover band cost.

Feb. 20: Great Backyard Bird Count, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Trinity River Hatchery in Lewiston. Maya at TCRCD, 530-6236004, ext. 214, or mwilliams@tcrcd.net.

Feb. 23: Science on Tap, 6 p.m. at the Trinity County Brewing Company, 301 Main St., Weaverville. Presenters and topics will vary month to month.

Feb. 25: Bunko, Junction City Community Center, Dutch Creek Road, Junction City. Fundraiser for JC Volunteer Fire Department. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. $15, cash prizes.

March 5: Ukrainian Pysanky (egg class), 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Junction City Community Center, Dutch Creek Road, Junction City. $25, includes supplies, lunch and snacks. Fundraiser for JC Volunteer Fire Department. Must be fully vaccinated. To register call Lucy DeMaris at 559-707-2292 or Bonnie at 530-623-5811.

March 5: Monthly Art Walk, downtown Weaverville, 5 to 8 p.m., part of the expanded First Saturdays event. Receptions for featured artists, refreshments.

March 12: The Hyampom Pie Auction, a benefit for the Hyampom Community Center.

March 13: Daylight saving time begins.

March 23: Science on Tap, 6 p.m. at the Trinity County Brewing Company, 301 Main St., Weaverville. Presenters and topics will vary month to month.

April 2: Monthly Art Walk, downtown Weaverville, 5 to 8 p.m., part of the expanded First Saturdays event. Receptions for featured artists, refreshments.

April 10: Rodney Crowell, 7:30 p.m. at the Trinity Alps Performing Arts Center, 101 Arbuckle Court, Weaverville. Tickets $25 adults ($32 at the door), $20 students and seniors. Masks and/or vaccines please. Tickets: www.tapaconline.org.

April 15: JC Fire Jills Easter Bake Sale, front of Junction City Store, 9 a.m. to noon. Fundraiser for JC Volunteer Fire Department.

April 15: Douglas City Fire Belles Easter Bake Sale, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Douglas City Post Office, 140 Steiner Flat Road.

April 22: Bunko, Junction City Community Center, Dutch Creek Road, Junction City. Fundraiser for JC Volunteer Fire Department. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. $15, cash prizes.

April 22-24: Countywide Yard Sale organized by The Trinity Journal.

April 27: Science on Tap, 6 p.m. at the Trinity County Brewing Company, 301 Main St., Weaverville. Presenters and topics will vary month to month.

April 29-30: Trinity County Friends of the Library annual Book Sale.

May 7: Wildfire Preparedness Day Fair, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., hosted by the Trinity County Fire Safe Council in the Highland Art Center meadow, 691 Main St., Weaverville.

May 7: Frontier Days Celebration, Weaverville, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Trinity County Arts Council and Weaverville Chamber of Commerce will partner with the Nor-Rel-Muk Wintu Nation to celebrate our cultural heritage. Art workshops, ceremony, music, dancing and more! Free to public.

May 7: Monthly Art Walk, downtown Weaverville, 5 to 8 p.m., part of the expanded First Saturdays event. Receptions for featured artists, refreshments.

Get your event noticed

Placing your event in The Trinity Journal’s Calendar of Events does much more than get you into the weekly newspaper. The calendar is uploaded to two locations (listing and calendar versions) on our website, www.trinityjournal.com, and also shared with the Trinity County and Weaverville chambers of commerce and their respective websites, www. VisitTrinity.com and www.weavervilleca.org, as well as the Trinity County Visitor Center, 509 Main St., Weaverville. Submit calendar items to the Journal at our office, 500 Main St., Weaverville; or via e-mail to calendar@trinityjournal.com.

2022 Parent Leadership Month February

The Trinity County Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) reminds the community that February is Parent Leadership Month. Parents and caregivers are very important in preventing maltreatment of children and youth in our community Parent Leadership can be promoted in a number of ways:

Join the PTA at your child’s school and encourage other parents to join.

Start an online book club for parents.

Advocate for increased funding to improve services in your community for families

Invite parents to volunteer for roles that are in-line with their known skills and talents.

When you see a problem in your community, invite parents and stakeholders to develop a program, service, or event.

Develop a training about parent leadership and provide it for parents on an annual basis.

Advocate for increased funding to improve services in your community. Participate in groups to better inform stakeholders of current community issues.

Snap a photo of a gift to a parent and share it on social media with #PrizedParent Visit www.disabilityrightsca.org for more information or call 1-800-776-5746.

Trinity County Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) is funded by the California Department of Social Services Office of Child Abuse Prevention (OCAP)

California Senior Legislator Elections

✓ Are you 55 or over?

✓ Involved and aware of senior issues in your local area?

✓ Driven to make a difference in the lives of aging Californians?

✓ Willing to volunteer?

✓ Interested in representing your local community at the State Level?

If you Answered Yes, visit the California Senior Legislature website at www.4csl.org or contact PSA 2 Area Agency on Aging for a CSL election packet to learn more: 530-842-1687 or www.psa2.org

Election packets are due to your local AAA office no later than March 31, 2022

East Side Road is always an adventure

The Jan. 19 Trinity Journal contained both an interesting advertisement and a letter to our esteemed editor. I read with great interest Mr. Connor Nixon’s assertions about East Side Road, and Sup. Keith Groves.

Increased solar power production feasible, necessary

Welcome back!

Today we’ll scratch the surface of energy econometrics as it applies to solar energy production. When discussing the energy transition from fossil fuels to carbon-free renewables, we must analyze the theoretical potential, as well as technical and economic feasibility of developing and “scaling up” these technologies to make them suitable for the world’s largest, energy-consuming economies.

I highly recommend reading this comprehensive module on the renewable energy transition from Boston University: www.bu.edu/ eci/files/2019/06/RenewableEnergyEcon.pdf.

Theoretical potential refers to how much energy is available hypothetically. For example, the sun generates a whopping 3.9x10^26 watts of power, which dwarfs the world’s 16x10^12 watts (aka 16 terawatts) of power consumption (www.pveducation.org/pvcdrom/ properties-of-sunlight/ the-sun). Put another way, those watts, if converted to mass, equate to 4,000,000 tons of energy every second, and the world currently only captures and converts 44 pounds of sun energy into usable energy per day (www.gocamsolar. com/blog/how-much-energy-does-sun-generate).

Theoretically, the sun provides the world with enough energy for a year every single day.

Unfortunately, only a small amount of this energy can actually be captured and converted. Up to 50% of the sun’s energy is scattered by dust and clouds in the atmosphere, and doesn’t reach Earth’s surface.

Accounting for absorption and scattering, 1.08x10^8 GW (1.08x10^17 watts) of power reach Earth’s surface, which is still 7,000-8,000 times the amount of annual global energy consumption (www.sciencedirect.com/ topics/engineering/solar-energy).

Solar potential is further hindered due to variable weather conditions, the limited number of solar panels we can actually build, and the limited ways in which we can store solar energy (batteries, ponds) for use at night. The southwestern United States, northern Africa, and the Middle East are especially good locations for solar plants because they are arid and cloud-free for most of the year, but this limited geographic extent isn’t large enough to power the planet. We are also materially limited and don’t have enough rare earth elements, minerals, and metals to build enough panels to rely 100% on solar power. The technical feasibility is therefore greatly reduced by our geography and material needs.

Now, we luckily don’t have to reach 100% of our solar potential. We can have a mixedsource electrical grid

FROM THE NORTH 40 Marla Walters mdwalters1878@ gmail.com

Sparkies are back with a tasty fundraiser for the VFD

CLIMATE CORNER

Callie

Auryn climatecornerusa@ gmail.com

using wind, tidal, and geothermal energy. We can also maximize our hydropower by adding generators at existing dams without building new dams. There also remains the solution of recycling our electronic waste and recovering more minerals and metals from our thrown-out phones, computers and machines. Recycling our e-waste would help make our economy more of a closed-loop system, where we no longer need to mine fresh materials for solar panels, but can strip them from pre-existing consumer goods. This would reduce pollution and leaching from e-waste as well as reduce energy consumption. Then there’s the economic feasibility of solar power. Frankly, we have more than enough money to make renewable energy cheaper and more profitable. Gas is literally publicly funded. Global fossil fuel subsidies were $4.7 trillion in 2015 and $5.3 trillion in 2017 (www. imf.org/en/Topics/climate-change/energy-subsidies). I cannot overemphasize how MASSIVE a trillion is. “A stack of one billion dollar bills would be 67.9 miles high. A trillion dollar bills would reach 67,866 miles into space,” (https://exhibitcitynews.com/how-big-isone-trillion-dollars/). If we took some of those trillions of dollars away from fossil fuel companies and gave them to renewable companies, we could easily make renewables the cheaper, more attractive consumer option.

As a closing thought, a long-time commenter mentioned that solar panels are currently being manufactured in the Uyghur Muslim concentration camps in the Xinjiang province of China. I do not condone these human rights violations and have, for the entirety of my professional life, insisted that America responsibly source our energy technologies and consumer goods while recycling our waste. Manufacturing our own panels would bring many jobs back to our shores. If you’d like to read about how America, the country that first developed solar technology, lost the solar advantage and allowed development and manufacturing to move overseas, I recommend reading this article: www.theatlantic.com/ science/archive/2021/06/ why-the-us-doesnt-really-make-solar-panels-anymore-industrial-policy/619213/. We have the technology to rebuild our grid. We have the money. Now, we need action. We need vision and bravery.

The Lewiston Sparkies held their monthly meeting this past Monday and decided it was finally time for a fundraiser! It’s been over two years since the Sparkies have had one and the coffers are getting a little low. They will host a Valentine’s Day Bake Sale on Monday, Feb. 14, at the Lewiston Mini Mart starting at 10 a.m. There will be the usual delicious moist morsels to savor and gluten free as well sugar free! Something for everyone!

The Sparkies are raising funds to help pay for a new water tender that Chief Mel Deardorff and I want to write a grant for. It’s a whopping $425,000 to replace the current 1995 model that has 422,000 miles on it. If Lewiston is successful in getting that grant, the Lewiston Community Services District, which oversees the fire department, must pay a matching 5%. That doesn’t sound like much until you do the math … it’s $21,250. The Sparkies have stepped up to say they will pay half of that amount. So, this bake sale is just part of the fundraising to help our fire department.

If you are new to Lewiston, the Sparkies are a nonprofit 501(c)3 whose mission is to raise money for the Lewiston Fire Department. They had a huge part in helping to fund the new Lewiston Fire Station. They have also helped pay for uniforms and fire equipment. If you would like to be a member or renew your membership, please mail your $10 check to the Sparkies at P.O. Box 594, Lewiston, CA 96052. Donations are also most welcome. The Sparkies meet the first Monday of the month at the Lewiston Fire Station. Contact President Anabel Myers for more information at 530-778-3771.

I was recently informed by Steve Richards that the Lewiston Lions organization is now defunct. He stated

LEWISTON SLUICE BOX

Katie

Quinn mskatiequinn@ gmail.com

that the lack of interest in getting involved is what made them fold up the organization. They were a great group of volunteers — they held yard sales, they did a fabulous breakfast for years at the Community Center … I still miss the scent of sausage and pancakes! They did the Relay for Life. So much good community support. I will miss them. Thank you all who were members and gave so much of your time, your hearts to helping others.

As some of you know, Julia Mitchell, a Lewiston resident and I have started a project to help save the old Lewiston Congregational Church located in the Lewiston Historic District at the intersection of Schoolhouse and Goose Ranch roads. This icon is starting to really show her age (126 years) and needs some help before she collapses. We started a GoFundMe, and a PayPal account. All of that information can be found in another article in the Journal.

I have received lots of calls, emails, text messages, Messenger messages from people with great interest. Some asking what they can do, others offering their support, or offering their skills. At this point, funds are what are really needed. Funds to pay for the steeple to stay right where it is; funds to repair the porch; funds to put a little paint back on the face. For me, if that beautiful old church crumbled to the ground, I would kick myself for not stepping up to help save it. If you feel the same, just send whatever you can. And, if you have any questions, email me or call me … 530-778-3307.

New dog boarding business opens

If you are a dog owner, Swift’s Park A Pup, a new dog boarding business recently opened this year. You can find them located just off Highway 3, north of Hayfork. They are open by appointment only, so call or text Kristi Swift at 415-706-1157 if you’d like to set up a time to check them out.

This Friday, there will be free COVID-19 vaccines, boosters, and testing at the Hayfork Community Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Hayfork Lions Club is hosting another roller-skating day at the Fairgrounds this Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m.! The entrance fee is $5. They will provide the skates. The snack bar will be available and masks are required.

This Saturday is the Valentine’s Day event at Curvy Roads Kegged Wines. Join them anytime from 1 to 5 p.m. for flowers, photos, gifts, chocolates, live painting, bubbly water, charcuterie, and bubbly wines.

Saturday evening is the Valentine’s Dinner and Las Vegas Night at the Fairgrounds dining hall. For those who made a reservation, the dinner will be from 6 to 8 p.m.

I respect Mr. Nixon’s presentation of his point of view, which was eye-catching and engaging, and which added to the newspaper’s advertising revenues.

As a resident of the area, I drive East Side Road every day. Frankly, it’s not that great, but when you live in the sticks, I think the bar is set a little lower.

What Mr. Nixon may not know is that East Side Road is absolutely plagued by daily crops of falling rocks. Residents are eternally grateful for the plow guy, who scrapes them away in his truck-dozer combo. This activity is tough on the road, which the county temporarily repairs with tar snakes. When it snows, you can’t see the rocks, adding another dimension to interesting driving. There are also areas where the road seems to be separating, which rouses my phobia of sinkholes. In fact, this road is so not great, that I anticipate “cause of death” on my certificate might eventually list:

“Squashed By Boulder”

If the road doesn’t get me, these might:

“Smacked into an Elk”

“Didn’t See Rattler”

“Cirrhosis” I did drive the entire road, twice, to see what the fuss was about. My advice is to pop a Dramamine if you want to give that a try. It’s a curvy little devil.

The Trinity County Roads Department maintains almost 693 miles of roads. Some aren’t too bad, but some were originally designed for mules and buggies.

David Colbeck, the interim director for the County

of Trinity’s Roads Department, was kind enough to take my call and educate me about Trinity County road repairs. The department does not receive funds from the county’s General Fund. Instead, they rely heavily on funding that comes from the state, via SB1, the gas tax, etc.

The Roads Department is guided by the Regional Transportation plan, which reaches 10 years into the future.

The county is still trying to fix roads back from 2017. There is indeed a backlog. Of course, there is a plan, and then, stuff happens.

In late July of 2018, the disastrous Carr fire struck. Not only did it threaten local residents and businesses on East Side Road, it also did quite a number on East Side Road, itself. First, heavy equipment repeatedly traversed that road to fight fires. Later, heavy equipment repeatedly traversed the road for salvage logging. It was really tough on the road, which was reduced to dust in spots. FEMA and OES funding followed, but as we all know, bureaucratic funding is pokey, at best.

Mr. Nixon labeled East Side Road as “Supervisor Groves’ Road.” At press time, there is no official action to rename East Side Road after Supervisor Groves.

Lastly: The town of Lewiston is charming and historic, and I think we all look forward to it having its needed repairs completed.

Sweets for your sweetheart in J.C.

Mark your calendars!

The Junction City Fire Jills are at it again. These amazing bakers are whipping up some delectable delights for their annual Valentine’s Day Bake Sale from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Feb. 11, at the Junction City Store.

The Jills will be hosting a Bunco night on Feb. 25. If you are into loads of fun, prizes, getting together with your community, and supporting JCVFD, this is the way to do it.

HAYFORK HAPPENINGS Angelica Rohrs ladykurosana@ gmail.com

and you can preview the dinner menu at www. trinitycountyfair.com. Afterward, Las Vegas Night will be from 9 to 11 p.m. Entry is free for everyone, but you must be at least 18 to play. They will have craps table, roulette, blackjack, cocktails and music.

The winners of the Trinity County Fair’s Jewelry Silent Auction will be determined during the Valentine’s Dinner/Vegas Night.

On the 16th from 5 to 7 p.m., the Pathfinders will hold their annual Lasagna Drive-Thru Dinner at Linda Hall. It will cost $12 if you buy presale tickets from a Pathfinder, or $14 on the day of the event.

The 2022 fair theme has been selected! Congratulations to Lorna Trindade, with the theme, “There’s No Time Like Fair Time.” Have a great Valentine’s Day!

JC MONITOR Naomi Underwood findmeinjc @gmail.com

If you prefer to spend your time making beautiful works of art, I highly encourage you to sign up for Lucina DeMaris’ Ukrainian Egg workshop celebrating the art of the Ukrainian Pysansky from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 5. The $25 workshop fee includes supplies, lunch and snacks. To reserve your spot, contact Bonnie Yingling at 530-623-5811. Proceeds from the workshop benefit JCVFD.

The North Fork Grange Hall got a much needed clean and purge session this weekend. Cheri Mondiel took the lead on the effort, with numerous NF Grange members pitching in to go through closets, cupboards and more.

Dawn Hospice is looking for volunteers in the Junction City and Downriver area and will be hosting a new volunteer training Feb. 16. Because it is a non-medical hospice, no medical background is needed, just a willingness to help people. If you are interested in learning more, please give Dawn Hospice a call at 530-623-4692.

Junction City volunteer firefighters have been taking advantage of the quiet winter months to get some training under their belts, the volunteers have been working on BLS CPR, Driver/Operator training, Wildland Fire training and brushing up

on medical assessment, vehicle extrication, and pump operations. An all-department Wildland Refresher Drill is tentatively planned for May 2022, in which firefighters practice fundamentals of wildland fire fighting including fire shelter deployment, fire attack, fire line construction, communications, and Wildland Urban Interface, which includes triage and prep of homes, and more.

While we are all hoping for some more rain and snowfall, it is already shaping up to be another very dry year ahead. Conserve your water resources wherever possible and prepare your property for the coming fire season, because even though it feels like the Monument fire burned everything around us, there are still plenty of available fuels that are ripe to burn.

Lastly, COVID-19 vaccine and testing are available from 9 a.m. to noon every Thursday at the North Fork Grange Hall, 131 Dutch Creek Road in Junction City.

If you come down with COVID-19 and are at high risk for developing severe infection due to your health conditions or other risk factors, contact your doctor or one of our local clinics as soon as you test positive. They may be able to prescribe monoclonal antibody treatments and oral antivirals, which can go a long way toward preventing hospitalization and death from COVID-19.

Katie Quinn and Julia Mitchell have started fundraising to save the old Lewiston Congregational Church.

150 YEARS AGO | SATURDAY, FEB. 8, 1872

Trinity County has so far, the shortest Delinquent Tax List of any county in the State.

Storm – During the past week we have had 11 inches of snow and 64-hundredths of an inch of rain. And still the miners complain there is no water.

Got Away with Itself – Henry Lorenz has a 22-inch pipe and lots of water, with about one hundred feet pressure, at his claim near North Fork. The “Little Giant” being insecurely fastened, was carried away one day last week by the force of the water and landed about eighty feet from the end of the pipe.

Repaired – The trustees of Weaverville School District have lately expended $150 in repairing and enlarging the schoolroom of the Primary Department. The two rooms, formerly occupied by the Primary and Grammar Departments, have been thrown into one, and there is now a large, comfortable and convenient school-room. This is the best thing that could have been done, next to building a school-house, and finances would not admit of that.

Big Work – McGillivray has stripped 15,000 feet of bed rock in three weeks.

125 YEARS AGO | SATURDAY, FEB. 19, 1897

Mrs. John Martin is again in the news. She stopped the production of Cymbeline at a New York theater by causing the arrest of the leading man. The latest story appears in two full columns on page 3 of this issue. [Note: The 1958 edition of the Trinity at the Jake Jackson Museum has more detail about this family.]

Owing to the bad condition of the roads, the Weaverville-Redding stage has been delayed and is not making time. The river is too high at Lowden’s Ranch to ford, and it has to come around by Musser Hill – a slow route.

The Weather – The waterfall for the week amounted to 1.58 inches, making a total to date of 31.12 inches.

Supervisor Dockery had a force of men at work this week in building a piece of road over the Hupp-McMurry tailings on Weaver Creek.

100 YEARS AGO | SATURDAY, FEB. 11, 1922

Weekly Rain Record – Rainfall for the week 1.33; rainfall to date 13.28; to same date last year 39.94.

The Hayfork Valley Union School will open Monday for the half-term. Miss Helen Griffith of Weaverville will teach the intermediate grades, Mrs. Margaret Brown, the former teacher, having resigned.

At a special meeting of Trinity Lodge No. 27, F. & A.M., Tuesday evening, the following officers were installed for the ensuing year by Past Master Gehm, assisted by Master of Ceremonies H.R. Given; A.J. Fetzer, WM; G.T. Davis, SW; C.A. Paulsen, JW; J.F. Tourtellotte, Treasurer; R.L. Carter, Secretary; J.W. Shuford, Chaplain; Geo. F. Gehm, Marshal; J.J. Jackson, SD; A. Caton, JD; H.L. Lowden and C.R. Noonan, Stewards; J.H. Bremer, Tyler. In Hayfork, spring plowing has begun.

Emmet Ross, of Hayfork, has returned from Beegum where he was repairing fence for his sister, Miss Della Ross. He went to Weaverville on business this week.

75 YEARS AGO | THURSDAY, FEB. 13, 1947

The Weather – average high 56; average low 33, with 27 on the 6th. Rain for the week 2.99, rain (storm 11 and 12) 2.71; rain for the season 17.01; normal rainfall to date 24.30.

The first sign of post-war building of homes in Trinity County was announced this week when Jack Hanlon made known that he, his brother Tom Hanlon, and Don Creath have started construction of several new homes in a new tract east of Weaverville. The new tract, to be known as Parkside, is adjacent to Lowden Park, and will be bounded by Weaver Street on the east and School House Street on the north. Ground was broken this week for four homes, with 12 to be erected before the end of the year. Three of these have been sold to veterans, according to Hanlon.

The Department of Motor Vehicles today announced that fee-paid registrations for 1946 in Trinity County totaled 1,224. There were 876 autos, 186 trucks, eight motorcycles, and 154 trailers.

50 YEARS AGO | THURSDAY, FEB. 10, 1972

The Weather – average high 47; average low 21 with 10 on Wednesday and Thursday. Rain for the week 0.43 of an inch; seasonal to date 19.61; seasonal to date last year 33.67.

Dear Editor – On January 9th this year the wife and I were involved in an automobile accident in Weaverville. Mrs. Foster and I want you to know that we received every attention and for that we are grateful. Special attention was given us by your Sheriff’s Department (Ted Laag), by your State Patrol (Trooper Williams), by your hospital ambulance crew, the Trinity Hospital staff, especially Doctor Mike Polka for his thoughtfulness and understanding. My plea at this time is for you and the people of Trinity County to realize what you have in your hospital and law enforcement staffs and show your appreciation by supporting them with all you have… (signed) Ralph Foster.

Keith Crane, formerly employed for 13 years at Trinity County Title Company, is now associated with the Trinity County Realty Company, R.W. Brandes announced this week. Crane resigned his position with the title company two years ago to enable him and his family to spend some time in Ireland.

25 YEARS AGO | WEDNESDAY, FEB. 12, 1997

Weather report for the week ending Feb. 11 shows an average high of 50 and low 31, Thursday and Friday were 29 degrees. Rain for the week 0.30 for a total to date 37.43 inches. Last year high 66, low 37, rain 28.09. Trinity Lake is at 83.7 percent, last year 84.2.

Carol Zaitz, accounting clerk at Trinity Hospital, was selected as Trinity County employee of the year, 1996. Hospital Administrator commented that Mrs. Zaitz took on the difficult task last year of converting the payroll program from the county auditor’s office to an independent hospital system. “She is meticulous and very successful at dealing with all the personalities involved in the hospital.”

The beginning of Chinese New Year was celebrated with the Lion Dance beginning at the Joss House on Saturday. The dance is to chase away evil spirits and let good spirits come to Weaverville to bring good luck.

Trinity Players will perform two oneact plays over three weekends. “Prometheus Bound” a tragedy written by Aeschylus in the 5th century B.C. and “The Whole Shebang” written by Rich Orloff. They offer similar themes but based in different centuries, 2,500 years apart. Enjoy an evening of theater and experience the range of old to new, and tragedy to comedy, in wrestling with the same question, “What are we doing here?”

Southern Trinity principal secures grant for ‘Hiking Historic Homesteads’

BY JOSH COZINE THE TRINITY JOURNAL

Southern Trinity High School Principal and teacher Andy Felt has secured a $3,000 grant for further development of an outdoor, educational-based historical nature hike series he calls “Hiking Historic Homesteads.”

The grant funding comes from the Rural Schools Collaborative, Celia D. Godsil Grants in Place Fellows program for “place-based” learning projects.

The program “provides grant awards to rural school teachers who engage their students in exemplary place-based learning,” according to the Rural School Collaborative’s website. Place-based learning, or place-based education, refers to learning that comes from, and is rooted in, students’ local community.

Applying for the grant wasn’t too hard, Felt said, since he’d already had a trial run of the program last year before ever hearing about it.

Last spring, Felt, hiked up the North Fork of the Eel River with his entire eighth-grade class (all four of them) and visited the historic Yellowjacket homesteading area. Wildfires over the previous years had burned most everything down except for a single fencepost, but the area’s historical significance was still discussed for students to prepare a report on.

“Most of the homesteads have burned down in recent wildfires, but students could still identify the stonework foundations and often other items left behind unburned like pots and pans, shovels and rock wells,” Felt said.

Then, last summer, Felt heard about the grant and thought it would be the perfect avenue for more funding to expand the experience into a series of hikes learning about historically significant sites across the county. After submitting the application, Felt learned in November that his proposal had been chosen.

Ann Schulte, a professor at Chico State

who was on the Rural School Collaborative’s grant selection committee, explained more about the grant selection process.

According to Schulte, the grant committee tries to choose a grant idea from each hub of the 11 different regional hubs which make up the Rural School Collaborative. The Northern California hub, she said, had several notable applicants, with Felt’s Hiking Historic Homesteads out of Trinity County eventually being chosen.

“I think the committee really felt inspired by the way he talked about his community and engaged his students in the history of the area,” Schulte said. Felt hopes to start up the hikes again this year in April, “as soon as the snow melts.”

With the additional grant funding, Felt said he had hoped to include some additional trips this year to visit local experts and was surprised at the level of support he’s received so far.

One such idea Felt is setting up is bringing his students from Southern Trinity up to the Historical Society in Weaverville to meet with local experts and discuss other historic homesteads and to learn firsthand how to do research using primary sources. Felt says he is also in talks with a retired Forest Service archeologist, Tom Keter, who has a lot of knowledge collected on historical homesteads, to speak with his students as well about their project.

“When applying for the grant, my vision for the project was to give the students an opportunity to work together outside the classroom walls and realize the rich history that makes up our community,” Felt said.

“As we got started and began reaching out to community members who could provide resources, I didn’t anticipate the level of support we would have received. So, what started out as a classroom project has developed into a collaboration between community members and other experts in the field.”

draft a policy for consideration by the Board of Supervisors. Anyone desiring to make a statement may do so in writing.

reports will be available on the Internet at: https://www. trinitycounty.org/Agendas-Minutes-Staff-Reports

NOTICE OF PROPOSALS

Trinity County Transportation Commission (TCTC) is soliciting project proposals from current TCTC sub-recipients for available funding under the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5310 Funding Program. Those interested in attending a public hearing on this application should contact TCTC Executive Secretary Kimiko Taguchi at (530) 623-1365 or ktaguchi@trinitycounty.org no later than February 22, 2022. February 9, 2022

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

Trinity County Buildings and Grounds Division will be accepting bids from responsive, responsible, qualified, and Class B Licensed California Contractors for the Trinity County General

mailed to: Anmarie Swanstrom, Superintendent, Mountain Valley Unified School District, P.O. Box 339 Hayfork, CA 96041. The deadline for receipt of letter of interest is 4:00 pm, Friday, February 25, 2022. Candidates will be considered and interviewed by the Governing Board of Mountain Valley Unified School District at a Special Board Meeting scheduled for March 9, 2022. The decision and appointment will be announced at the regular monthly board meeting on March 9, 2022. February 9, 16, 2022

Students from Andy Felt’s spring 2021 eighth-grade class hiked to the historic Yellowjacket homesteading area as a class. The homesteads have mostly been burned down by recent wildfires, but students gathered around one remaining fencepost for a photo.