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By Eric Johnson
Published Jan 20, 2025

Edgar McGregor picking up trash on March 18, 2024 in Eaton Canyon. Ten months later, McGregor’s posts on Facebook saved a lot of lives as the Eaton Fire blazed through Altadena.
Edgar McGregor picking up trash on March 18, 2024 in Eaton Canyon. Ten months later, McGregor’s posts on Facebook saved a lot of lives as the Eaton Fire blazed through Altadena.

People Have the Power

Recognizing that today is both MLK Day and Inauguration Day, a fact that provides obvious opportunities to draw contrasts between Martin Luther King and Donald J. Trump, we choose instead to keep The Newsletter on message, which is to say local, and focused on solutions.  

Today we recognize two instances of people-power being exerted by a couple of ordinary heroes. The first you may have heard about—a young Altadena weather-watcher who mounted an effort on social media that saved a lot of people from possible fiery death. (As it happens, we know this guy.)

The second story is less-obviously heroic, but in this era of mass misinformation, the effort of another young man to counteract a campaign that could cripple smart development in the little city of Hollister is worth noting.

And in celebration of this issue's theme, dig this tune for our times from Patti Smith, singing one of the greatest small-d democratic anthems ever written— her own (you guessed it) “People Have the Power. This might be just the thing you need today.


Saving Lives and Fighting Lies

In LA County, a young meteorologist started a Facebook page to help his neighbors keep track of the weather. In San Benitio County, a student of land-use planning started a website to counteract misinformation (and incivility) on NextDoor. Sometimes, as they say, what happens online is happening In Real Life.  


Life and Death and Weather and Planning

Satellite image of Altadena before and after the Eaton Fire.
Raymond Martinez and Edgar McGregor are practitioners of the art of digital citizenship. As allies in this endeavor, we commend their righteous efforts.


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Nevada County's Homepage

Direct your browser to https://nevada.californialocal.com/ to catch up on the latest news in California and Nevada County. Bookmark the link and visit often, there's a lot happening in your community!


Recipe of the Week

Our friends at Sacramento Digs Gardening publish a recipe from their gardens every Sunday, which we feature here so you can start your week with some yum.

See more recipes in their Taste Winter! cookbook.


Serve season's oranges dressed for dinner -- or breakfast

Blood oranges deliver the eye-catching color in this plate of seasonal citrus. The lavender-lemon syrup, at upper right, is pretty, too.
Blood oranges and navels with a lavender-lemon syrup


Get to Know a Group

Truckee Tahoe Community Chorus logo Truckee Tahoe Community Chorus

Supporting local singers by building, promoting, and nurturing vocal music programs, the Truckee Tahoe Community Chorus hosts two annual concert series that feature music from a range of genres, such as classical, Broadway, and contemporary hits.

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From Our Media Allies

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Tahoe Daily Tribune logo SR28 Corridor Plans Move Ahead

Local agencies are forging ahead with plans to expand access within the State Route 28 Corridor and reduce reliance on private automobiles. The plans are part of a series of initiatives to expand access to existing trails through new parking …

Sierra Sun logo Golden Programs: Building Community and Connection for Truckee Seniors

The Steve Randall Community Recreation Center in Truckee has become a hub of connection and engagement for local seniors, thanks to the success of its Golden Programs. Launched in April 2022 under the leadership of Sven Leff, General Manager of …

Sierra Sun logo A Heartfelt Thank You From Truckee Community Cares (Opinion)

Truckee Community Cares (TCC) would like to thank the Truckee community for supporting our 2024 program. Our nonprofit provides grocery gift cards, toys and coats to Truckee locals who need assistance during the December holiday season. Each year, TCC partners …

Sierra Sun logo New Design for Truckee Regional Library Unveiled

The Friends of the Truckee Library, in partnership with Nevada and Placer Counties and the Town of Truckee, revealed the new schematic design for the highly anticipated Truckee Regional Library. This milestone marks a transformative step in addressing the evolving …

Sierra Sun logo Truckee Tahoe Airport District Advances Sustainable Aviation Goals setting New 2025 Leadership Benchmarks

As the aviation industry enters a pivotal year for climate action, the Truckee Tahoe Airport District is building on its groundbreaking initiatives to advance sustainable aviation. 

Benito Link logo Cal Fire Warns About Scam Donation Requests

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) is alerting the public about fraudulent social media accounts impersonating Cal Fire and soliciting donations. Cal Fire does not solicit donations from the public, either in person or online.Additionally, all …

Local News Matters Stockton logo Where Are All the Eggs? Bird Flu’s Spread Not the Only Culprit in Crisis of Global Proportions

IF YOU HAVE tried to bake a cake recently, you might have had a hard time finding eggs. The empty shelves are a sign of the devastating impact of avian influenza, H5N1 or HPAI, on commercial poultry flocks in California.

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Tahoe’s Seniors Redefine Aging on the Slopes and Beyond

The Tahoe basin is home to a fierce community of seniors who have redefined what it means to age. From skiing the world's peaks to embracing artistic passions, these individuals are proving that life after retirement can be as thrilling …

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Sierra Nevada Mountain Towns Mobilize to Support LA Wildfire Victims With Caravan of Provisions

When wildfires strike, the impact reverberates throughout California, demonstrating the interconnectedness of our communities. In moments of crisis, the strength of unity shines brightest, and the Truckee-Tahoe region is ready to show up and support those in need.

Sierra Sun logo Upcycled Adventures: Truckee’s First Outdoor Gear Consignment Shop Combines Sustainability and Community

A new business in Truckee is redefining outdoor adventure by blending sustainability, affordability, and community spirit. Upcycled Adventures, the town's first and only outdoor gear consignment shop, is already making waves just weeks after opening its doors.

Sierra Sun logo Truckee Launches Relief Drive to Aid Los Angeles Wildfire Victims

Wildfires impact every Californian, and when one community suffers, the whole state feels the effects. To show solidarity and support, the Truckee Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Town Council Member Courtney Henderson to organize a relief drive for wildfire …

Sierra Sun logo Truckee Town Council Discusses New Library

The Truckee Town Council met on Tuesday, Jan. 14, to discuss updates regarding the new library.

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Recent Local News

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Nevada County’s Citizens Academy Applications Open

Read on to learn more about the Nevada County Citizens Academy which educates participants on how the various facets of county government works. Applications are open through February 17, sign up today!

(01/21/2025) YubaNet
Annual Nevada City Security Camera Update Given

Did you know there are six live feed security cameras deployed around Nevada City? Read on to learn more about the recent update given by Police Chief Dan Foss to the Nevada City city council.

(01/21/2025) The Union
People’s Day March in Nevada City

Read on to learn about the over 100 people who participated in the January 20 National People’s Day march in Nevada City.

(01/20/2025) The Union
Learn About the North Yuba Landscape Resilience Project

The preliminary draft record of decision for the North Yuba Landscape Resilience Project to manage 275,000 acres of land for resilience against wildfires is open for public comment. Read on for more information.

(01/18/2025) YubaNet
Measure B Sales Tax Funded Firefighters Begin Duty

Meet the eight new Grass Valley Fire Department firefighter recruits funded by the Measure B aales tax.

(01/17/2025) The Union
Almost 2,000 Responses to YubaNet Fire Season Survey

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(01/17/2025) YubaNet
Nevada City Courthouse Community Meeting January 29

Get ready to attend a community meeting on January 29 to hear a presentation on possible future uses for the Nevada City Courthouse. Read on for more info.

(01/16/2025) YubaNet
Business Tax Information for Short-Term-Rentals

Homeowners who offer short-term rentals on their properties should read on for more information from Nevada County Assessor Rolf Kleinhans about the business taxes which could apply.

(01/16/2025) YubaNet
Report on Deer Creek Shaded Fuel Project Open House

A report on the community town hall hosted by the Fire Safe Council of Nevada County which provided an update on the Deer Creek Canyon Shaded Fuel Break Project.

(01/15/2025) The Union
Improvements Slated for Downtown Grass Valley

Read on to learn more about upcoming upgrades to downtown Grass Valley to improve traffic and pedestrian safety.

(01/15/2025) The Union
Nevada County Supervisors Approve Tiny Houses on Wheels Ordinance

In their January 14 meeting, the Nevada County Board of Supervisors approved the use of tiny houses on wheels as housing. Read on for details.

(01/14/2025) YubaNet
Jada Windows Expansion Advances

Read on for more information about plans to develop a parcel on Whispering Pines Road in Grass Valley for the expansion of Jada Windows custom window manufacturing.

(01/14/2025) The Union
Banner Mountain Firewise Community Meeting January 28

Banner Mountain property owners should plan to attend a community meeting on January 28 for information about improving defensible space against wildfires. Read on for more information.

(01/13/2025) The Union
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Recent Statewide News

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(01/21/2025) CalMatters
Trump Takes Step to Overhaul Delta Water Deliveries to Farms, Cities

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Resistance State: Tracking California’s Lawsuits Against the New Trump Administration

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Trump’s New Executive Orders Target Policies Dear to CA

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(01/20/2025) CalMatters
Fact Check: Did Gavin Newsom Really Help Create 625,000 New Job Opportunities in California?

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As President Trump Declares a Border Emergency on Day 1, California’s Targeted Immigrants Lie Low

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(01/20/2025) CalMatters
An oasis of peace survives Palisades wildfire

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PG&E Receives $15 Billion Federal Loan

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(01/18/2025) The Mercury News
California Lags in Making Homes Fire Resistant

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(01/17/2025) CapPublicRadio
More Funding Allocated to Raise San Luis Reservoir Dam

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(01/17/2025) San Joaquin Valley Sun
LA Fires Bring Scrutiny to Worker Safety, Private Firefighting

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(01/16/2025) CalMatters
LA Will Need Workers to Clean Up After Fires. It Can Be a Dangerous Job

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(01/16/2025) CalMatters
As LA Fires Destroy Homes, California’s Housing Crisis Is About to Get Worse

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Private Firefighters Are Increasingly Popular With Insurers. But Do They Pose a Risk?

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LA Wildfires Could Clobber California Economy as State Recovers From a Pandemic Recession

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Hardening Your Home Against Wildfires - Wildfire Proven

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(01/14/2025) The Sacramento Bee
CA Abandons Clean-Air Rules on Diesel Trucks

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(01/14/2025) CalMatters
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(01/14/2025) CalMatters
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(01/13/2025) Local News Matters
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(01/13/2025) CalMatters
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Government Announcements

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Image of United States seal. D. Coluccio & Sons, Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Almonds in "Colussi Cantuccini Chocolate Drops" Cookies
D. COLUCCIO & SONS, in is recalling its 300 gram packages of "Colussi Cantuccini Chocolate Drops" chocolate chip cookies because they may contain undeclared almonds.
United States   (01/20/2025)
Image of United States seal. Monkey Spit, LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk/Wheat/Soy in Monkey Spit BBQ Sauces
People who have allergies to milk/wheat/soy run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. The three recalled "Monkey Spit BBQ Sauces" were distributed locally in retail stores on the central coast of California and through mail orders on our website:
United States   (01/17/2025)
Image of United States seal. Wismettac Asian Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Curvee Puffs Corn Puff Snack Curry Flavor
Wismettac Asian Foods, Inc., Santa Fe Springs, CA is recalling 2.46 oz packages of Shirakiku brand Curvee Puffs Corn Puff Snack Curry Flavor. The product contains the undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reacti
United States   (01/17/2025)
Image of Town of Truckee seal. Sierra Nevada Mountain Towns Mobilize to Support LA Wildfire Victims with Caravan of Provisions
All donations will be transported in a caravan of trucks to Los Angeles on Wednesday, January 22, and delivered to the LA Dream Center, a nonprofit organization actively working on wildfire relief efforts.
Town of Truckee   (01/15/2025)
Image of United States seal. Mutual Trading Co., Issues Allergy Alert Undeclared Milk in Prepared Monkfish Liver
New York Mutual Trading Co., Inc of Secaucus, NJ is recalling 7.05 oz of Prepared Monkfish Liver (Ankimobo) because the package label contains undeclared milk allergen. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk allergen run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if
United States   (01/15/2025)
Image of United States seal. Quaker Issues Limited Recall on Undeclared Milk in Pearl Milling Company Original Pancake & Waffle Mix Distributed in 11 States
January 14, 2025 - The Quaker Oats Company today issued a recall of a limited number of two pound boxes of Pearl Milling Company Original Pancake & Waffle Mix that may contain undeclared milk, after being alerted by a retail partner. Those with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk o
United States   (01/14/2025)
Image of United States seal. UP Products, LLC, DBA Meyer Wholesale Recalls Ready-To-Eat and Raw Sausage Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen
WASHINGTON, Jan. 13, 2025 - UP Products, LLC, doing business as Meyer Wholesale, a Ewen, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 400 pounds of sausage products due to misbranding and an...
United States   (01/13/2025)
Image of United States seal. Lifestyle Evolution Voluntarily Recalls NuGo Dark Chocolate Chip and NuGo Dark Pretzel Due to Undeclared Milk
Lifestyle Evolution Inc., is recalling select lots of NuGo Dark Chocolate Chip and Dark Chocolate Pretzel nutrition bars because they may contain undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume
United States   (01/10/2025)
Image of Town of Truckee seal. Councilmember Henderson Selected for Prestigious Rodel Fellowship
Councilmember Hendersons participation in the Rodel Fellowship not only highlights her dedication to public service but also elevates Truckee and rural Californias voice in conversations about effective governance and leadership.
Town of Truckee   (01/09/2025)
Image of United States seal. The Mochi Ice Cream Company LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in Peach Mango Sorbet
The Mochi Ice Cream Company LLC, Vernon, California is recalling 1350 cases of Peach Mango Sorbet, because it may contain undeclared pasteurized cooked egg white. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs, run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume t
United States   (01/09/2025)