Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Judy LaRussa
EastValleyTimes.com to come to an end the end of this year
Dear East Valley Community, I am very sad to announce, but at the end of this month/year I will be retiring and EastValleyTimes.com will be coming to an end. It has been a pleasure serving our communities with some local news. Best to all, Judy La Russa
Three arrested in Walgreen robbery
On December 11th, 2019 at 10:40 P.M., the Redding Police Department responded to a possible robbery at Walgreen’s, located in the 900 block of East Cypress Avenue. Upon arriving, officers were advised that a black male suspect forced his way into the pharmacy, demanded prescription medication and money which he obtained, then fled the scene in a vehicle. Additional officers arrived in the area and located the suspect vehicle as it entered onto southbound Interstate 5 from Cypress Avenue.
Planned CalFresh changes to affect thousands in Shasta County
The December 4, 2019 federal ruling to restrict eligibility for participants on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – known as CalFresh in California – will reduce access to food assistance. The change is expected to go into effect on April 1, 2020. These Federal changes are new and few details are available. HHSA staff will continue to monitor the changes and new information will be provided as it becomes available.
PG&E adds more weather stations and high-definition cameras to monitor wildfire conditions
More than 600 weather stations, 130 HD cameras now installed across Northern and Central California SAN FRANCISCO— As part of its Community Wildfire Safety Program (CWSP), Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has now installed more than 600 weather stations and 130 high-definition (HD) cameras across its service area.
CDFW awards $10.1 million for Fisheries Habitat Restoration and Forest Legacy Projects
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) today announced the selection of 31 projects that will receive funding for the restoration, enhancement and protection of anadromous salmonid habitat in California watersheds, as well as forest legacy restoration. The grants, which total $10.1 million, are distributed through CDFW’s Fisheries Restoration Grant Program (FRGP).
California Farm Bureau welcomes agreement on USMCA
Rural and urban California will benefit from improved agricultural trade, and the California Farm Bureau Federation said it’s pleased by today’s announcement of a pending vote on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The USMCA will reduce barriers to trade throughout North America. “We’ve been advocating for months for a vote on the USMCA, so we’re happy the White House and Speaker Pelosi have agreed to move forward,” CFBF President Jamie Johansson said.
Man allegedly assaulted by two group home juveniles
On Monday, December 9, 2019, at approximately 7:38 am, a woman who resides on the 1900 block of Paso Robles Ave. called SHASCOM to report her husband, Fred Clough, was being assaulted by two juveniles from a nearby Victor Youth Services group home. Deputies arrived at approximately 8:00 am and took the juveniles into custody. Mr. Clough told deputies he found a juvenile in his yard and when he asked the juvenile to leave, the juvenile punched him once to the forehead.
Wetter weather returns to the region later this week
Wetter weather returns to the region later this week. A change in the storm track will bring a return of wetter weather to much of the region later this week. Snow levels will lower significantly by the weekend. Big gains for the northern Sierra Nevada precipitation index after a slow start to the water year that began Oct 1. We are now up to 78% of average for Dec. 9th. The central Sierra Nevada is at 97% of average and the southern Sierra Nevada index is at 101% of average.
PG&E Urges customers to stay safe as they decorate homes and businesses this holiday season
Thousands are hurt while hanging holiday lights every year, and decorations start hundreds of home fires each December SAN FRANCISCO — As temperatures fall this holiday season, lights and other decorations are going up on homes and businesses across the nation. By following some simple safety tips, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) customers can make sure their holiday season stays merry, bright and accident-free.
Despite stormy weather, the rain did not put a damper on the Palo Cedro Country Christmas spirit
Photos by Jenny Christmas and Feature photo by Kelly Landry—Thank you On Friday, Dec. 6, the community of Palo Cedro came out to enjoy the Christmas festivities that the Greater Palo Cedro Area Chamber of Commerce provided at the Palo Cedro Village Shopping Center despite the rain and at times a downpour. New this year was the Sleigh/Bed competitions. They had three Sleigh/Bed entries—Ortega Restaurant, Palo Cedro Feed and Palo Cedro CrossFit.
Shooting activities occur at Montgomery Creek store parking lot
On Wednesday, November 27th, 2019, 2043 hours, deputies from the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office Burney Division, were dispatched to 30344 State Highway 299, the Montgomery Creek Store, for the report of a shooting that occurred in the parking lot at about 8:15 p.m. When deputies arrived on scene, all of the involved parties had already left. Deputies were able to locate the victim, Matreyo Mastrangelo-Mitchell, (28 years old) from Montgomery Creek, California.
Snow shower activity to continue this week
Snow shower activity will continue overnight across interior NorCal with snow covered and slippery roads for the mountains and higher foothill areas. Snow levels will be generally around 2500 feet but locally lower, especially along the Shasta Lake Grade of Interstate 5. The next storm system is expected to move in late Friday night and Saturday morning with more snow developing for the interior NorCal mountain areas.
Food and Farm News--Portable pens help with emergency livestock housing ~ East Valley Times
Wednesday, November 27, 2019 Portable pens help with emergency livestock housingTo help house farm animals displaced during disasters, portable livestock pens have been deployed to fairgrounds around California. The pens were formally dedicated Tuesday during a ceremony in Yuba City, and were purchased jointly by the California Farm Bureau Federation’s charitable foundation and the state Department of Food and Agriculture.
Sweet Chip is the SNAP Pet Adoption of the Week
Chip is a very sweet, mellow six month old girl who is looking for her furever home. She is spayed, vaccinated, and house-trained, and gets along great with other cats. Chip is available for adoption through S.N.A.P. (Spay, Neuter & Protect) in Palo Cedro. Please contact us at (530) 547-2050 or snap.spayneuterandprotect@gmail.com for additional information.
Healthy tips for body and mind during the holidays
SACRAMENTO – With the holiday season approaching, the California Department of Public Health is reminding people that you can stay physically and mentally healthy by taking simple steps before, during and after the holiday meal. Bacteria can be found in foods such as meat and poultry and may cause illness if it isn’t cooked long enough, or if it’s inadequately cooled or improperly handled.
Board of Supervisors continue to seek two important county positions--Administrative Officer and Sheriff ~ East Valley Times
The Shasta County Connection–11-27-19 Careful what you wish for, you might just get it. And that we have, with the series of storms over the Thanksgiving week. The forecast continues to indicate we will continue to have precipitation too. Our power was out again on our place near Anderson….I’ve lost count of how many times that has happened this year. Looking forward to it being restored soon. Hopefully, everyone weathered the storm as best as can be expected.
Agricultural immigration bill moves forward
Committee approval of an agricultural immigration bill marks an important step for California farmers, their employees and their families, the California Farm Bureau Federation said. CFBF President Jamie Johansson welcomed today’s action by the House Judiciary Committee on the Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2019. The committee approved the bill by voice vote, ahead of an expected final vote tomorrow to send it to the full U.S. House of Representatives.
PG&E issues weather “all clear” for safety inspections and restoration work to begin in all impacted areas
Safety Inspections and Restoration Work Underway Restoration Progress Continues: 10,000 Customers Restored SAN FRANCISCO — Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) reported that the company issued weather “all clear” for all counties within its service area impacted by Wednesday’s Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). In the North Valley, most of the impacted customers are in Shasta County, with some also in Tehama, Glenn and Butte.
Many organizations focus on issues surround forestry and wildfire preparedness
The Shasta County Connection–11-20-19 The last week has had lots of focus on issues surrounding forestry and wildfire preparedness. Northern Valley Catholic Social Services received a grant to educate residents in rural areas on how to prepare for a wildfire event. The grant is geared toward reaching those who are most at risk for not having access to notification of a dangerous situation. I also met with stakeholders to get our Shasta County Fire Safe Council established.
Skimming devices located at Redding Chevron and Valero
On November 18, 2019, Community Service Officer Rachel Johnson investigated two separate cases involving the use of “skimming” devices.” “Skimming” is a term used to describe the method used to obtain credit card information via a computer device that is installed surreptitiously by unknown suspects. The devices were attached to individual gas pumps at the Chevron located at 4746 Churn Creek Road and the Valero at 722 E. Cypress Avenue.
Nov. 20 PSPS UPDATE: Due to Improved Weather, approximately 83,000 customers removed from scope of Public Safety Power Shutoff
Power Turned Off for Safety for Approximately 48,000 Customers Approximately 14,000 Customers in Butte, Plumas, Tehama, Yuba Counties Could be Impacted Later Today SAN FRANCISCO—Due to improved weather conditions including some precipitation and increased humidity levels, approximately 83,000 customers previously expected to lose power for safety are no longer part of this Public Safety Power Shutoff.
SNAP to host Annual Soup Kitchen Fundraiser
Time: 5:30 pm Board of Directors Meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday of the month Farm Bureau Office by the Palo Cedro Post Office. 5:30pm — 9444 Deschutes Road, Palo Cedro, CA 96073 Board meetings are open to the Public.
SVFD Auxiliary to sponsor Annual Kids' Christmas Shoppe on Dec. 7 ~ East Valley Times
On Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, SVFD Auxiliary and Santa will be sponsoring the Annual Kids’ Christmas Shoppe at Shingletown Volunteer Fire Department’s Van Stellman Training Center from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Hosted by the Ridge Rider News, kids aged4 to 12, can come and shop for presents (items are 50 cents each) to give to their parents and family. Santa himself will be in the Fire Truck Bay with popcorn and tasty treats.
Two male suspects rob Redding Rite Aid Pharmacy
On November 13th, 2019 at 8:51 PM, officers from the Redding Police Department responded to 975 E. Cypress Ave. (Rite Aid) for a report of a robbery in progress. The reporting party is an employee who reported that two suspects jumped over the pharmacy counter and stole prescription medication. The suspects did not display any weapons and fled the scene prior to officers arriving. Witnesses reported that the two suspects were last seen running southbound on Churn Creek Road away from Rite Aid.
PG&E offers free annual natural gas safety checks
SAN FRANCISCO — With winter right around the corner, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is reminding customers to call to schedule a free in-home safety inspection of their gas appliances. During the visit, PG&E will also relight pilot lights for customers who have older heaters or other appliances without electronic ignition that have had gas pilot lights turned off during warmer months.
Palomino on the move to save four by Friday
By Palomino Armstrong, It is go-time once again. First I want to say Thank You, for saving so many precious lives. Sadly, the emergencies keep coming and we have a very short deadline to save these horses. I NEED TO COMMIT BY FRIDAY MORNING TO KEEP THEM OFF THE TRUCK!, But it is up to y’all if you want me to say yes! I received an urgent call this morning.
Another death in California and investigation into E-cigarette, vaping-associated illnesses continues
As Potential Chemical of Concern is Identified SACRAMENTO – As yet another California death related to vaping is reported in Marin County, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) continues to urge everyone to refrain from vaping and e-cigarette use, no matter the substance or source, until the cause of vaping-associated lung disease is known.
Food and Farm News--California working landscapes provide economic vitality ~ East Valley Times
Wednesday, November 13, 2019 California working landscapes provide economic vitality California farms and businesses associated with agriculture continue to be economic powerhouses, according to a new study. It analyzed the economic contributions of California’s “working landscapes” and found that agriculture and other support activities account for 6.4% of the state’s economy, support more than 1.5 million jobs and generate $333 billion in sales.
Palo Cedro Country Christmas event to bring sleigh bed racers and gingerbread houses
On Dec. 6, 2019, the Palo Cedro community will celebrate the arrival of the holiday season with the 25th Palo Cedro Country Christmas Celebration (PCCCC) from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Village Shopping Center in downtown Palo Cedro. This year’s event will be sponsored by the Greater Palo Cedro Area Chamber of Commerce.
Cascade Christmas presents a special holiday treat--Elf! the Musical! ~ East Valley Times
Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. A title known the world over, Elf the Musical is a must-produce holiday musical that can easily become an annual tradition for any theatre.
In memoriam—Samuel Bambino—June 22, 1928-Nov. 9, 2019 ~ East Valley Times
Redding resident Samuel “Sam” Bambino passed on November 9, 2019, at Mercy Medical Center at the age of 91. Samuel was born on June 22, 1928, in McCloud California. Sam was raised in McCloud and married his sweetheart Catherine Mae Hughes on May 24, 1952. In McCloud, he had many jobs—a painter, paper hanger and a butcher at the general store in the meat department. In his spare time, Sam played baseball for the McCloud team and was one of the best baseball players to come out of Siskiyou County.
PATROL to host legal fund benefit at Riverfront Playhouse
On Thursday, Dec. 19, 2019, the “No on 166 Homes” committee will be hosting a PATROL (Protect Against Tierra Robles Overdeveloped Land) legal fund benefit at the Riverfront Playhouse for a presentation of “A Christmas Carol.” The play is written by Christopher Scharios, (adapted from the book by Charles Dickens) and directed by Jennifer Levens. Doors open at 6:15 p.m., play begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. Riverfront Playhouse is located at 1620 East Cypress Avenue.
Redding man identified in Interstate 5 fatal traffic collision
On November 6, 2019, at approximately 10:00 a.m., a Deputy Coroner Investigator was dispatched to Interstate 5 near Hilltop Drive in Redding, California regarding a fatal traffic collision. The SUV driven by the decedent was reportedly traveling on Hilltop Drive when it left the roadway and entered the southbound lanes of Interstate 5. The SUV was struck by another motorist, which resulted in damage to both vehicles.
Deadline extended for filing fire claims in PG&E Chapter 11 cases
Fire Claimant Proof of Claim Forms Need to be Received Before Extended Deadline of December 31, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) SAN FRANCISCO — Today, PG&E Corporation and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (together “PG&E”) are sharing that the Bankruptcy Court-approved deadline for fire claimants to file claims against PG&E has been extended to December 31 at 5:00 p.m. (Pacific Time). The deadline for filing claims is known as the Bar Date.
Two occupants from single vehicle collision identified by coroner
On November 11, 2019, at approximately 5:00 p.m., a Deputy Coroner Investigator was dispatched to Highway 44 between Victor Avenue and Shasta View Drive regarding a single-vehicle collision. The two occupants suffered major injuries resulting from the collision and were pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency personnel.
CAL FIRE SHU support MDA with Annual Fill the Boot Drive
CAL FIRE SHASTA TRINITY UNIT (SHU) LOCAL 2881 is showing its continued support for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) as its members kick off the annual Fill the Boot fundraising campaign to raise critical funds to help transform the lives of kids and adults with muscular dystrophy, ALS and related muscle-debilitating diseases.
RCHS student wins $2,000 for drugged driving TV concept
Emmy-Winning Director Comes to Her School to Help Make 30-Second PSA That Will Air Nationwide NEW YORK — A student at Redding Christian High School has won the statewide Drive Safe L.A. Challenge. In addition to a $2,000 scholarship, Jasmine Coxey, 17, of Palo Cedro, will work with an Emmy Award-winning director and crew coming in from New York on Tuesday (Nov.
Playful Crockett is the SNAP Pet Adoption of the Week
He is neutered, vaccinated, and house-trained, and gets along great with other cats. Crockett is available for adoption through S.N.A.P. (Spay, Neuter & Protect) in Palo Cedro.
Redding Veterans Home offering Adopt a Vet 2019
The giving tree is going up for the holidays at the Redding Veterans Home. This event is always very popular and gift tags usually go within the first few days. We invite you to join us in serving veterans this holiday season. The event notice is here: https://www.facebook.com/events/479011972699988/
CDFW offers special opportunities and reduced-fee licenses for disabled veterans and recovering service members
Service-related injuries need not keep veterans from enjoying wildlife and the great outdoors. America’s disabled and recovering veterans get a break on the price of sport fishing and hunting licenses and are provided some special opportunities in California. Reduced-fee sport fishing and hunting licenses are available to both resident and nonresident disabled veterans.
Male suspect arrested for Shasta Lake burglary
On Thursday, 11/07/2019, at approximately 8:30 a.m., deputies with the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office, City of Shasta Lake division, responded to a residence located within the City of Shasta Lake in regards to a burglary which just occurred. The male suspect in the burglary entered the garage of an occupied residence on the 4000 block of Trinity Street and was confronted by one of the homeowners. After being confronted, the suspect fled through the back yard of the residence.
Pheasant, wild turkey, second dove seasons set to open Nov. 9
The holidays begin early for many California hunters with the Saturday, Nov. 9 openers for pheasant, wild turkey and the second dove season. Ring-necked Pheasant The pheasant opener on the second Saturday of November remains a strong tradition for many families. The flush of a wild, cackling, rooster pheasant is one of nature’s most thrilling moments.
Over 30 scholarship opportunities now available at Community Foundation's website ~ East Valley Times
Shasta Regional Community Foundation is pleased to announce their online scholarship application platform is now open and available on their website at www.shastarcf.org/scholarships. The online application allows for students to apply for a host of scholarships from all participating funds. “Our goal is to make the process more efficient for the students and increase their access to funds available for college,” states Program Associate, Miriam Leal.
Resident asks our community to help families in need during the holiday season ~ East Valley Times
Dear Editor: Once again it is time for Toys, Ornaments and Trees. This program shares and benefits One Safe Place and other local non-profits in our community. A Tree is located at Hair Country Beauty Salon/Consignment Corner in Palo Cedro for community members to decorate with ornaments. A box will be located there to receive toys, hats, gloves, pajamas, slippers, board games, books, gift cards and other goodies. If I may answer any questions, please give me a call at 547-4327.
Supervisor Rickert encourages community to support Undersheriff Magrini with beard growing fundraiser for Special Olympics
The Shasta County Connection–11-7-19 If you see a “scruffy” bearded sheriff’s deputy, give them a high-five. Undersheriff Eric Magrini is leading a fundraiser for the Shasta County Special Olympics by promoting a beard-growing contest among the Sheriff’s department during the month of November. Supervisor’s Baugh, Chimenti, and I have already committed $100 each, challenging Eric Magrini to lead the charge with growing a beard himself. This will be fun and for such a great cause.
Federal scientists determine ESA protection not required for California spotted owl
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it has thoroughly reviewed the status of the California spotted owl and concluded it does not require protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Group home female arrested for assault to staff member
On Wednesday, November 6, 2019 at 8:28 p.m. Shasta County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the 13000 block of Kings Way, Redding for a report of an active assault on staff being committed by a female juvenile (13 years old) resident at a group home operated by Victor Treatment Centers. When deputies arrived on scene, the suspect was detained without incident.
Sweet Tiger Lily is the ACAWL Pet Adoption of the Week
Another Chance Animal Welfare League Pet Adoption of the Week Tiger Lily is a four-year-old, female, long-haired calico that is spayed, tested and current on vaccines. She is very sweet and affectionate. Great lap cat. Tiger Lily can be seen at Petco. To adopt acawl.org and fill out application or call 515 0537
Food and Farm News--USDA releases new red spinach ~ East Valley Times
Wednesday, November 6, 2019 Wildfires damage crops, pastures, buildings Nearly 200 acres of avocados and lemons have been damaged or destroyed in Ventura County, after wildfires that broke out last week. The county agricultural commissioner’s office says it hasn’t yet had a chance to assess all the farming areas affected by the fires. In Sonoma County, farmers and ranchers say the Kincade Fire destroyed pastures, barns and winery facilities.
Wildfire relief agencies get $337,500 boost from United Way grants will support work that helps Carr, Camp survivors
The Board of Directors of United Way of Northern California (UWNC) has approved the distribution of grants totaling $337,500 to 30 non-profit agencies providing direct assistance to survivors of 2018’s deadly Carr and Camp Fires. Twenty-one of those agencies will receive Community Impact Grants totaling $250,000, said Larry Olmstead, President & CEO of UWNC.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Judy
Contact Judy, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack