Northern California News

08/16/2024

It tastes like strawberry jam candy with bananas.

Something I did with this pie is so right -- and probably many things are so, so wrong, that it tastes right.

05/23/2024

Greater Idaho Movement Growing – Now, 13 Oregon Counties Vote to Join Movement

In a bold display of regional political dynamics, the Greater Idaho movement has reached a significant milestone with the recent votes in 13 Oregon counties to join the movement. The initiative, which aims to redraw the state borders and move several conservative counties from to , has been gaining momentum since its inception in 2020.

The most recent addition to the movement was Crook County, which voted in favor of the measure with a 53% majority. This makes it the 13th county in the state to sign onto the movement, signaling a strong desire from the rural and conservative interior of Oregon to align more closely with the political and cultural values of neighboring Idaho.

The movement is driven by a deep-seated political divide between the sparsely populated, rural, and conservative areas of Oregon and the more liberal, urban centers such as and . Proponents of the movement argue that the move would allow for more effective representation of their values and interests, which they feel are often overlooked by the more liberal state legislature.

The movement proposes to shift Idaho’s border 200 miles west across Oregon, a move that would see more than half of Oregon’s territory leave the state to join Idaho. Despite the large landmass involved, the population affected would be about 10% of Oregon’s total, reflecting the vast differences in population density between the urban and rural areas.

While the movement has gained considerable traction in the counties that have voted in favor, the process to officially redraw the state lines is complex and requires approval from the state legislatures of both Oregon and Idaho, as well as the U.S. Congress. This process is unprecedented in modern times, with no prior instances of such a large swath of land and citizens seceding to join another state.

Despite these challenges, the Greater Idaho movement continues to push forward, with supporters arguing that it is time for the Governor and Oregon Legislature to listen to the people and begin serious discussions about the potential border shift.

The 13 counties in Oregon to vote for Greater Idaho:

1. - Located in eastern Oregon, it is home to the Blue Mountains and the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.

2. - Also in eastern Oregon, Crook County is known for the Ochoco National Forest and the Crooked River.

3. - Another eastern Oregon county, Grant County boasts the Malheur National Forest and the Strawberry Mountains.

4. - This large county in southeastern Oregon is home to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and the Steens Mountain.

5. - Found in central Oregon, Jefferson County is known for its part in the Deschutes River and the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

6. - Located in southern Oregon, Klamath County is home to the Upper Klamath Lake and the Winema National Forest.

7. - Also in southern Oregon, Lake County is named after the many lakes within its borders, including the Summer Lake and the Abert Lake.

8. - This southeastern Oregon county is home to the Owyhee Canyonlands and the Owyhee River.

9. - Found in north-central Oregon, Morrow County is known for its part in the Columbia River and the Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge.

10. - A small county in north-central Oregon, Sherman County is home to the John Day River and the Deschutes River.

11. - Located in northeastern Oregon, Umatilla County is known for the Umatilla National Forest and the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

12. - This eastern Oregon county is home to the Wallowa Mountains and the Eagle Cap Wilderness.

13. - The least populous county in Oregon, Wheeler County is known for the Ochoco Mountains and the Painted Hills.

By Daniel Webster

05/23/2024

The Promise of Primary Water: Unlocking a Hidden Resource

Introduction

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. With growing populations, climate change, and the over-extraction of traditional sources, the need for alternative and resources is becoming critical. One potential solution that has garnered interest is "primary water." Unlike conventional sources such as rivers, lakes, and groundwater, is derived from deep within the Earth's crust, offering a potentially untapped reservoir of freshwater. This article explores what primary water is, where it is found, the process of its extraction, the challenges and costs associated with it, and the results and yield from existing projects.

Understanding Primary Water

Primary water is groundwater that originates from deep within the Earth's mantle and crust. It is distinct from conventional groundwater, which primarily comes from precipitation infiltrating the surface and recharging aquifers. Primary water forms through geological processes, such as the cooling and crystallization of magma, which release water v***r that eventually condenses and accumulates in rock formations.

One of the main differences between primary water and other water sources is its potential for purity. Because it has not been exposed to surface contaminants or pollutants, primary water can be of exceptional quality, often requiring minimal treatment for use. Moreover, it is considered renewable in the geological sense, as the processes that create it are ongoing, albeit over long timescales.

Locations Rich in Primary Water

Primary water can be found in various geological settings around the world, often in regions with significant tectonic activity. Some notable locations include:

The Rift Valleys of East Africa: Known for their intense geological activity, these regions have shown potential for accessing primary water.

The Andes Mountains: Tectonic activity in this region also suggests the presence of primary water sources.

The Alps in Europe: Similar to the Andes, the Alps are another mountainous region where primary water is likely to be found.

California and Nevada, USA: Certain parts of the western United States have been investigated for their potential primary water resources, particularly in areas with significant geological fault lines.

Extraction Techniques

Extracting primary water is a complex and resource-intensive process. It involves several stages:

Geological Survey and Exploration: The first step in extracting primary water is identifying suitable locations. This involves detailed geological surveys using techniques like seismic imaging, magnetic resonance, and other geophysical methods to pinpoint areas with the right conditions.

Drilling: Once a potential site is identified, drilling begins. This can be challenging, as primary water is often located deep within the Earth. Drilling operations must be equipped to handle high pressures and temperatures.

Well Construction: After reaching the primary water source, wells are constructed to facilitate the flow of water to the surface. This involves casing the well to prevent contamination and ensure structural integrity.

Pumping and Testing: Water is then pumped to the surface and tested for quality and yield. This step ensures that the water meets safety standards for consumption and other uses.

Case Studies of Primary Water Extraction

Several projects around the world have attempted to tap into primary water resources, with varying degrees of success. Here are some notable examples:

California, USA: In the early 2000s, a project in the Sierra Nevada foothills aimed to tap into primary water sources to alleviate local water shortages. The project involved drilling deep wells and successfully extracted high-quality water. However, the cost and technical challenges limited its scalability.

Nevada, USA: Another project in Nevada explored the potential of primary water to support agricultural needs in the region. While initial results were promising, with high yields of pure water, the high cost of drilling and infrastructure development posed significant barriers.

Kenya: In the Rift Valley, efforts have been made to access primary water to support local communities facing severe water scarcity. The projects have shown that primary water can provide a reliable and clean water source, although the upfront investment is substantial.

Challenges and Costs

Despite the promise of primary water, several challenges must be overcome to make it a viable resource on a large scale:

High Initial Investment: The cost of geological surveys, drilling, and well construction can be prohibitively high. These expenses can deter investment, especially in regions with limited financial resources.

Technical Difficulties: Drilling to the depths required to access primary water presents numerous technical challenges. High pressures, temperatures, and the risk of encountering hard rock formations can complicate the extraction process.

Environmental Concerns: Extracting primary water is not without environmental risks. The drilling process can cause seismic disturbances, and there is always the risk of contamination if the well is not properly constructed and maintained.

Sustainability: While primary water is considered renewable on a geological timescale, the rate of extraction must be carefully managed to ensure long-term sustainability. Over-extraction could deplete local sources faster than they can be naturally replenished.

Regulatory Hurdles: In many regions, regulatory frameworks for water extraction are not well-suited to the unique characteristics of primary water. Navigating these regulations can add complexity and delay to projects.

Results and Yield

The yield and quality of primary water can vary significantly depending on the location and geological conditions. In some cases, wells have produced large quantities of water with minimal impurities, making it suitable for direct use in drinking water systems, agriculture, and industry. In others, the yield has been lower, or the water has required additional treatment to meet safety standards.

Quality: Primary water is often of exceptional purity, containing low levels of dissolved solids and contaminants. This makes it an attractive option for areas where surface and groundwater sources are heavily polluted.

Quantity: The yield from primary water wells can be substantial, but it is highly variable. In some cases, wells have produced several thousand gallons per minute, while in others, the flow rates have been much lower.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: While the upfront costs of primary water extraction are high, the long-term benefits can be significant. Reliable access to clean water can support economic development, improve public health, and reduce dependence on dwindling conventional water sources.

Future Prospects

The future of primary water as a mainstream resource depends on overcoming the current challenges and reducing costs. Advances in drilling technology, better geological survey techniques, and more efficient water management practices could make primary water a more viable option. Additionally, increased awareness and investment in sustainable water solutions could drive further exploration and development of primary water resources.

Conclusion

Primary water presents a fascinating and potentially crucial resource in the quest to address global water scarcity. While the challenges of accessing and utilizing this deep-earth water are significant, the potential benefits in terms of purity, reliability, and sustainability are compelling. As technology advances and the need for alternative water sources grows more urgent, primary water may become an increasingly important part of the world's water portfolio. However, careful management and investment will be essential to realize its full potential and ensure it can be a sustainable solution for future generations.

By Daniel Webster

05/22/2024

New Study Finds Microplastics in Human Testicles

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A recent study published in the journal Toxicological Sciences has revealed that microplastics were present in every human testicle examined, raising significant concerns about the impact on the male reproductive system. The research was conducted by a team at the University of New Mexico, who analyzed 23 human and 47 canine te**es, collected in 2016 from men ages 16 to 88.

The study found almost three times as many in the 23 samples — collected in 2016 from men ages 16 to 88 — as the 47 canine samples. This indicates a significant difference in the accumulation of microplastics between the two species. The human **es had a plastic concentration almost three times higher than that found in the dog te**es: 330 micrograms per gram of tissue compared with 123 micrograms.

"At the beginning, I doubted whether microplastics could pe*****te the reproductive system," said Xiaozhong Yu, a professor at the University of New Mexico Press and one of the authors of the study.

The researchers were also able to identify the different types of plastics present in the samples. Polyethylene (PE), the compound used for plastic bags and bottles, was dominant in both dogs and human te**es. The presence of these microplastics in the organs raises concerns about their potential impact on the human reproductive system, though the full extent of their health effects is not yet known.

The study also found a significant inter-individual variability in the levels of microplastics across the samples. This suggests that while microplastics are widespread, the exposure levels can vary greatly between individuals.

This study adds to the growing body of research on the pervasiveness of microplastics in the environment and their potential impact on human health. Previous studies have found microplastics in human placentas, ancient rocks, clogged arteries, blue whales, baby p**p, the wilderness of Antarctica, near the peak of Mount Everest, and the bottom of the ocean. The presence of microplastics in human te**es underscores the urgent need for further research into the health effects of these particles and their potential impact on the reproductive system.

By Daniel Webster

05/21/2024

Scott Valley Bluegrass Festival Returns After a Decade-Long Hiatus

ETNA, Calif., - The Scott Valley Bluegrass Festival, a beloved event that was put on hold for ten years, is set to return in July 19-21, 2024. This announcement has been met with excitement and anticipation from bluegrass fans across the state and beyond.

The festival, which began in 2004, was conceived as a way to introduce folks to the beautiful Scott Valley and as a scholarship fundraiser for the local high school. It quickly became a highlight of the bluegrass music scene, attracting top-notch talent and enthusiastic crowds.

After a decade-long hiatus, the Scott Valley is set to rise again, promising to be as high as the mighty mountains surrounding the community in Etna. The will take place in the same location, the picturesque town of Etna, California, just off I-5 near and .

This year's festival will feature a diverse lineup of bands, including Frank Ray and Cedar Hill , One Button Suit , The Central Valley Boys , Eight Dollar Mountain , The Rosa Lees , 33 String Drive , The Music Bachs , and Mountain Strings . The festival promises a unique, community-oriented experience with food vending by local service clubs and band housing with local families.

The Scott Valley Bluegrass Festival has always been more than just a music festival. It's a celebration of community, a showcase of local talent, and a testament to the power of music to bring people together. The return of the festival is a testament to the enduring spirit of the community in Scott Valley and the surrounding areas.

For more information, visit scottvalleybluegrass.com or call 530-340-0214. Tickets are available now, and with the festival's reputation for delivering a top-notch bluegrass experience, they are sure to sell out quickly.

The Scott Valley Bluegrass Festival is more than just a music festival; it's a homecoming, a reunion, and a celebration of the bluegrass community. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this historic return.

You can find Scott Valley Bluegrass Festival on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092927066538&mibextid=ZbWKwL

05/21/2024

Elvis Presley's Graceland Mansion Faces Foreclosure Auction Amid Claims of Fraud by Granddaughter

In a dramatic turn of events, the iconic Graceland Mansion, once the home of the legendary Elvis Presley is set to be auctioned off this Thursday amid claims of fraud by Presley's granddaughter, Riley Keough. The auction is a result of a foreclosure notice issued earlier this month, alleging that Lisa Marie Presley , Elvis' daughter and Keough's mother, failed to repay a $3.8 million loan secured in 2018 using as collateral.

Keough, the sole heir to the property and a rising actress known for her roles in "Daisy Jones & the Six" and "Under the Bridge," has filed a lawsuit disputing the loan and the impending auction. In her suit, she alleges that the company behind the loan, Naussany Investments and Private Lending, presented fraudulent documents and may not actually exist. She is seeking to block the sale and declare the loan and associated deed of trust as fraudulent and unenforceable.

The legal battle has brought to light a complex web of allegations and counter-claims. Keough argues that her mother never borrowed any money from Naussany Investments and that the signatures on the loan documents are forgeries. She also alleges that Kurt Naussany, named as a defendant, has no connection to the company as he left in 2015, despite a signed email purportedly from him in 2023 being included as evidence.

The dispute over Graceland's future has drawn significant public attention, not just because of the property's historical significance as 's home but also due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved. The mansion, which became a in 2006, is a popular tourist destination and the final resting place for Elvis, his parents, Lisa Marie, and other family members.

As the legal battle unfolds, an injunction hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, May 22, between Keough and Naussany Investments. The outcome of this hearing could have a significant impact on the future of Graceland and the resolution of the fraud allegations.

For now, the fate of Elvis Presley's Graceland hangs in the balance, with the scheduled auction just days away and a determined granddaughter fighting to protect her family's legacy from what she claims is a fraudulent scheme.

Photo: Wikimedia Creative Commons

By Daniel Webster

05/20/2024

Tips and Tricks for Growing a Giant Pumpkin

By Daniel Webster

Growing a giant pumpkin is a fun and rewarding challenge for any gardener. Here's a guide I've prepared to help you get started on your journey to a .

1. Choose the right seed: The first step I use in growing a giant pumpkin is selecting the right seed. I recommend the Atlantic Giant, Pacific Giant, and BIG MAX pumpkin seed for those aiming for a large fruit. You can pick them up from SeedsNow.

2. Prepare the soil: Good preparation is crucial for growing a giant pumpkin. Till up a 10-foot diameter bed and add 6 inches of composted manure, tilling it into the soil. Shape the bed into a low broad mound and cover it with straw mulch for the winter. Keep in mind that you may need anywhere from 400 sq. ft. all the way up to 1200 sq. feet for just ONE pumpkin.

3. Start indoors: To ensure a strong start, start your seeds indoors in a warm, sunny location. I start mine in my south-facing kitchen window sill. Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep and keep the soil moist. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, you can transplant them outdoors.

4. Provide plenty of space: Pumpkins need a lot of space to grow, so make sure to plant them in a location with full sun and plenty of room for the vines to spread. If you're growing more than one plant, space the mounds at least 10 feet apart.

5. Water and fertilize: Pumpkins are heavy feeders and need plenty of and nutrients to grow. Water the deeply once a week, and every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. A giant pumpkin may need up to 500 gallons of water per week, once it's getting big. I use well-aged chicken manure from my chicken coop. If you don't have that available, consider using an organic fertilizer every 5-10 days, such as Seaweed (kelp) and/or fish hydrolysate are some of the fertilizers currently being used by competitive giant pumpkin growers.

6. Monitor growth: As the pumpkin grows, gently slip a large piece of cardboard or wood under the fruit to avoid rot and insect problems. Consider putting it on a pallet when it's growing -- easier to move a heavy pumpkin later. Remove the rootlets that form along the vine for several feet on either side of the pumpkin so that the vine can lift freely from the ground as the pumpkin grows.

7. Harvest: Harvest your pumpkin at the end of the season just before the first frost. Cut the stem with a sharp knife, leaving a few inches of stem attached to the pumpkin.

8. Go win your Giant Pumpkin , have the biggest jack-o'-lantern on the block, or make a heck of a lot of pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving. Enjoy.

Share with me pics of your favorite giant pumpkin.

By following these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to growing a giant pumpkin. Remember to be patient and enjoy the process, as it can take between 100 and 120 days for your pumpkin to reach its full size.

You can pick up your giant pumpkin seeds at my favorite seed supplier here:
https://www.seedsnow.com/?rfsn=5389593.7a0729&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=5389593.7a0729

Your purchase at SeedsNow helps support my news service. Thank you. Enjoy your giant pumpkin.

Photos: Creative Commons.

05/20/2024

“Living is the art of getting used to what we didn’t expect.” —Eleanor C. Wood



Photo: The Ride of Their Lives, photographer Jonno Rattman

05/20/2024

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Feared Dead in Helicopter Crash; Two Passengers Make Contact Amid Harsh Conditions

In a tragic turn of events, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is feared to have died in a helicopter crash in the mountainous northwest of Iran. The incident occurred on May 19, 2024, while Raisi was returning from a visit to the Iranian border with Azerbaijan.

The helicopter, carrying Raisi and several officials, including the country's foreign minister, crashed in the mountainous region known for its challenging weather conditions and difficult terrain. The exact location of the crash site has been identified, and search and rescue teams are currently working tirelessly to reach the site. However, the fog and the rugged terrain have posed significant challenges to the rescue efforts.

The news of the crash has sent shockwaves across the country and the international community, with many expressing their condolences and concern for the safety of the president and the other officials on board the helicopter.

In a glimmer of hope, it has been reported that contact has been made with two passengers of the ill-fated helicopter. The Executive Deputy of the President, Mohsen Mansouri, has confirmed that communication was established with two of the people who were on the helicopter. He stated that the severity of the incident was not "very high," suggesting that there might be survivors.

The crash site is located in an area that has been experiencing severe weather conditions, including heavy fog, cold temperatures, and rain turning into snow. These harsh conditions have made the search and rescue operations even more challenging, with visibility severely limited and the terrain treacherous.

The Iranian government has not officially confirmed Raisi's death, and the nation is bracing for the worst. Prayers and vigils have been held across the country, with citizens expressing their grief and solidarity with the president's family.

The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, and Raisi's death could have significant implications for the region. Raisi, who has been in office since August 2021, has been a key figure in Iran's foreign policy and has played a crucial role in the country's relations with its neighbors and the international community.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and it is not yet clear whether it was due to a technical malfunction or other factors. The incident underscores the risks involved in traveling in the region, which is known for its challenging weather conditions and rugged terrain.

As the nation awaits further news about the fate of President Raisi and the other officials on board the helicopter, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of the world we live in.

05/19/2024

05/18/2024

"God grants only to those who love it and are always ready to guard and defend it. Let our object be our country. And, by the blessing of God, may that country itself become a vast and splendid monument, not of oppression and terror, but of wisdom, of peace, and of liberty, upon which the world may gaze with admiration forever!"
- Daniel Webster, Statesman, Orator, Attorney

05/18/2024

Over Half of U.S. States Challenge Biden Administration Over Title IX Changes for Transgender Students

**** Multiple lawsuits argue against the federal rule expanding Title IX protections to include s*xual orientation and gender identity

Washington, D.C. — In a significant legal pushback against the administration's expansion of protections, more than half of the states in the U.S. have filed challenging the new federal rule. The rule, finalized last month, aims to protect students from discrimination in federally funded schools by expanding the scope of Title IX to include anti-discrimination protections based on *xualorientation and .

Title IX, originally enacted in 1972, was designed to prevent s*x-based discrimination and s*xual harassment in educational programs and activities receiving federal funding. The new rule, which has been met with opposition from -led states, argues that the Biden administration's interpretation of the law contradicts its original intent and decades-long understanding.

Republican attorneys general from at least 26 states have filed separate lawsuits, arguing that the updated federal rules are illegal and exceed the Department of Education's statutory authority. The lawsuits, which have been filed in federal courts in multiple states, represent a coordinated effort to halt the implementation of the new Title IX regulations.

Attorney General Tim Griffin, speaking at a news conference alongside Attorney General Andrew Bailey, stated, "The interpretation of the Biden administration is completely inconsistent with the statute and the way it's been interpreted for decades."

The lawsuits come as many Republican lawmakers have sought to limit the rights of transgender youth, including restrictions on which bathrooms or pronouns they can use in school. The legal challenges also follow a years-long legislative effort by Republican-led states to regulate how LGBTQ issues are taught in school and whether trans students should be allowed to compete in girls' and women's sports.

The Education Department has not commented on the ongoing litigation but has stated that all federally funded schools are obligated to comply with the new rules.

A spokesperson for the department said in an email, "As I have already made clear, Texas will not comply with President Joe Biden's rewrite of Title IX that contradicts the original purpose and spirit of the law to support the advancement of women."

The multiple legal challenges from Republican-led states give them a better chance that one of the cases will put the rule on hold nationally. The lawsuits argue that the new federal rules go beyond the intent of Title IX and that the Biden administration does not have the authority to implement them.

The legal battles over the Biden administration's Title IX changes are expected to continue, with the outcome likely to have significant implications for the rights of transgender students in federally funded schools across the country.

Title IX, clause of the 1972 Federal Education Amendments, signed into law on June 23, 1972, which stated that “no person in the United States shall, on the basis of s*x, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefiIn 2002, following the death of its coauthor, U.S. Rep. Patsy Takemoto Mink, Title IX was officially renamed the Patsy Takemoto Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act.

Grok and Daniel Webster contributed to this news article

Photo: Title IX is called the Patsy Takemoto Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act. Patsy Takemoto Mink won election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1964.