Flames can be seen along Stony Creek, south of the North State Hulling Cooperative along Highway 32, early in the afternoon on Saturday, May 14. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
By Larry Judkins
Glenn County Observer
Firefighters from all over Glenn County responded to a report of an “unknown type of fire” Saturday afternoon in the area of Highway 32 and Sixth Avenue, where a large column of smoke could be seen.
In fact, the column of black smoke could easily be seen from the 200 block of East Walker Street in Orland, and the call went out first to the Orland Volunteer Fire Department at about noon on May 14. Had the fire actually been at Highway 32 and Sixth Avenue, as originally reported, it would have been in Orland’s jurisdiction, but it was actually farther east than that, in the jurisdiction of the Hamilton City Fire Department.
The fire was off Highway 32, between Sixth Avenue and County Road VV. It was well off the south side of Highway 32, in the Stony Creek bed, south of the North State Hulling Cooperative.
The fire was apparently on both sides of Stony Creek, so firefighters set up commands on both the north and south sides of the creek. Incoming firefighters heading for the north side of the fire were instructed to enter the main gate of North State Hulling and head south to the creek, while incoming firefighters going to the south side of the fire were told to take County Road 18 west from Highway 45, then make their way north to the creek.
A Cal Fire helicopter takes part in the battle to extinguish the Stony Creek fire west of Hamilton City. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
In addition to the Orland and Hamilton City Fire Departments, mutual aid was requested from the Capay, Glenn-Codora, Bayliss, Willows, Ord Bend, and Artois Fire Departments. A Cal Fire helicopter also arrived at the scene to help with extinguishing the fire.
At about 12:15 p.m., a woman contacted the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office to report that her vehicle may have started the fire. The sheriff’s dispatcher told a deputy at the scene about this, and the deputy confirmed that there was indeed a burned-out vehicle there.
At about 2 p.m., with high temperatures reaching 90 degrees, Orland volunteers called for drinking water to be brought to them. Chief Justin Chaney asked that someone other than Orland volunteers deliver the drinks, as nearly all Orland firefighters were at the Stony Creek incident and the chief did not want to leave the city short-handed.
At 10:30 p.m., fire units from various departments were still being released from the scene.
Charley Birimisa died west of Willows on Saturday, April 23, 2022, the result of an accident while racing his Mustang at Thunderhill Raceway. Charles Louis Birimisa was born in Mt. Shasta to Louis Birimisa and Ruth Brown on June 12, 1947.
He lived in the Mt. Shasta area his entire life. During his high school years, Charley was a star football player who received multiple scholarship offers from various universities, as well as becoming an accomplished ski racer, being selected to compete at the Junior National Level.
He opted to serve his country by joining the Marines as a Lance Corporal in Communications during the Vietnam War. On Dec. 2, 1966, he married the love of his life, Faioa Lynnette “Lynne” Schwarzenberg.
Following military service, they returned to Mt. Shasta, where they raised their three children. He worked as a large equipment operator in the timber industry as well as a master technician for the House of Ski.
They became owners of the House of Ski & Board, where Charley was known as an extraordinary ski technician and boot fitter, serving people from communities throughout Northern California.
He was a unique human being with many natural skills and talents. Time was spent designing, building, and repairing nearly anything, especially cars; many hours working on their house and gardens; downhill skiing and hiking; exploring the many National Parks of the U.S.; and traveling to visit family members.
He will be dearly missed by many.
Charley is survived by wife, Lynne; son, John (Jen) Birimisa; daughters, Stephanie Bethel and Gretchyn Zuiderweg; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; and his beloved dog, Pete.
A funeral mass and celebration of life are to be announced at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Siskiyou Humane Society, or a charity of your choosing.
A GoFundMe account has been created to help Lennie Wood and his wife pay medical bills after he was severely injured by a horse during a show at the Glenn County Fairgrounds on May 7.
On Saturday, May 7, Lennie Wood, 69, of Chico, was injured when a horse “flipped over backwards and crushed him.” Forty-five minutes later, the FlightCare helicopter was flying him to Enloe Medical Center in Chico.
Later, on Facebook, Shannon Hamilton-Taylor explained that the incident happened at a Gymkhana horse show, where Wood was reportedly assisting. Heather Smith said the show took place in the horse arena.
Heather Smith is organizing the fundraiser. The plea for funds reads:
“Lenny was critically injured during a freak horse accident on Saturday, May 7th, while attending a local gymkhana.
“Lenny was life-flighted to Enloe for his injuries. He sustained a broken femur, multiple breaks to his pelvis and broke 20 out of 24 ribs.
“He is currently at Enloe in the ICU in stable condition.
“If you know Lenny, or have known Lenny for any length of time, you know how many battles, including cancer, he has already fought and conquered with his wife, Jean, and daughter, Courtney, by his side.
“Lenny and his family have a long road to recovery ahead. I created this gofundme to try and help raise money to cover some of his medical expenses. Every little bit helps.”
The name, Lenny, may have been a deliberate misspelling. As the above plea states, he had previously suffered some serious medical problems almost exactly a year ago.
A GoFundMe account was set up for him on that occasion, also. The spelling of his name that time was “Lennie,” so it may be that the name was spelled differently this time in order to help prevent contributions from going to the wrong account.
At the time of this writing, $4,360 of the $10,000 goal has been raised.
Here are the latest bookings from the Glenn County Jail. Remember: Everyone accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Tuesday, April 26:
2:05 a.m., Jaydien Mouivong, 21, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $20,000. He had previously been taken into custody on Newville Road, east of County Road E, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
6:52 a.m., Rodolfo Naranjo Garcia, 38, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of marijuana for sale, transportation of marijuana for sale, and cultivation of more than six marijuana plants (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody on the southbound side of Interstate 5, south of County Road 62, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
6:52 a.m., Santiago Plancarte, 42, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of marijuana for sale, transportation of marijuana for sale, and cultivation of more than six marijuana plants (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody on the southbound side of Interstate 5, south of County Road 62, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
9:05 a.m., Curtis Caroll Hart, 54, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Bail was set at $12,000. He was taken into custody in the 1200 block of West Wood Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
10:32 a.m., Johan Gutierrez, 25, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $30,000. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.
11:45 a.m., Marty Alexander Yracheta, 33, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging disobeying a lawful order of the court (a felony). Total bail was set at $40,000. He was taken into custody at the Tehama County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
1:51 p.m., Amber Reyanne Pangborn, 42, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging bringing drugs or alcohol into a prison or jail (a felony), and warrants alleging failure to appear after being released on bail, and failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge (both misdemeanors). Total bail was set at $58,500. She was taken into custody at 201 South Tehama Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
7:44 p.m., John Michael Luna, 19, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging felony vandalism, and felony burglary. Bail was set at $40,000. He was taken into custody at 642 Glenwood Lane, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
8:58 p.m., Jose Alberto Diaz-Morales, 18, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at Orland Stop and Shop, 10 Walker Street, by an Orland police officer.
8:58 p.m., Silverio Gonzalez-Hilario, 21, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and possession of a controlled substance (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody at Orland Stop and Shop, 10 Walker Street, by an Orland police officer.
8:58 p.m., Jesus Morales-Diaz, 21, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication, possession of a controlled substance (both misdemeanors). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at Orland Stop and Shop, 10 Walker Street, by an Orland police officer.
Wednesday, April 27:
12:30 a.m., Herlindo Duran Paredes, 31, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging violation of a court order to prevent domestic violence (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at 1411 Pine Street by an Orland police officer.
1:32 a.m., Brittan Irene Emery, 31, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging conveying or selling personal identification with intent to defraud, making or passing a fictitious check, and a special allegation (all felonies). Bail was set at $45,000. She was taken into custody at the jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
4:45 p.m., Michael Patrick Anderson, 37, of Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging identification theft (a felony). Bail was set at $20,000. He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
7:56 p.m., Salomon Roa, 44, of Maxwell, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, and driving while under the influence of alcohol (both misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody on Highway 99, south of County Road 60, by a California Highway Patrol officer.
Thursday, April 28:
12:36 a.m., Maria Rodriguez, 60, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging using or being under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of controlled paraphernalia (all misdemeanors). She was taken into custody at East and Chapman Streets by an Orland police officer.
9:40 a.m., Delfino Basurto Diaz, 28, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant (a felony). Bail was set at $25,000. He was taken into custody in the parking lot of 600 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
1:10 p.m., Carlo Magno Rivera, 37, of Orland, was sentenced to the Glenn County Jail without bail for misdemeanor violation of probation. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.
2:27 p.m., Karen Jayne Samuels, 64, of Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of a drug (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody on Highway 99 at County Road 33 by a California Highway Patrol officer.
3:44 p.m., Alan Boe Kyler, 64, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging infliction of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant (a felony), and violation of a court order to prevent domestic violence (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $30,000. He was taken into custody at 904 North Butte Street, sp. #9, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Friday, April 29:
1:56 a.m., Michael Thomas Arbuckle, 29, of El Dorado Hills, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and disobeying a court order (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody at Commerce Lane and Newville Road by an Orland police officer.
10:25 a.m., at the Glenn County Jail, Alan Boe Kyler, 64, of Willows, was booked by a Glenn County probation officer for charges alleging felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $35,000, which, added to his bail from the previous day, totals $65,000.
11:15 a.m., at the Glenn County Jail, Tyler James Lopez, 30, of Elk Creek, was found to have warrants alleging arson of an inhabited structure, possession of child pornography, and possession of obscene material of a minor in a sexual act (all felonies). Total bail was set at $65,000.
2:36 p.m., Willieb Jennifer Woods, 28, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging threatening to commit a crime with intent to terrorize (a felony), displaying an imitation firearm in public with a prior (a misdemeanor), assault (a misdemeanor), battery (a misdemeanor), exhibition of a deadly weapon other than a firearm (a misdemeanor), and possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $155,000. She was taken into custody at 1016 South Street by an Orland police officer.
10:09 p.m., Antonio Hernandez, 66, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at Sixth Street and Almond Way by an Orland police officer.
Saturday, April 30:
2:16 a.m., Artemio Mungia-Zejada, 25, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc., and vandalism (both misdemeanors). Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at 6379 County Road 16, sp. #53, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
2:32 p.m., Kenneth Charles King, 60, of Vallejo, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at 1129 West Wood Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Sunday, May 1:
6:48 p.m., Elias Lopez Santiz, 32, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and driving without a license (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody on County Road P, south of County Road 27, by a California Highway Patrol officer.
8:14 p.m., Joshua Garrett Huffman, 38, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging assault with a deadly weapon with force with possible great bodily injury (a felony), threatening to commit a crime with intent to terrorize (a felony), exhibition of a deadly weapon other than a firearm (a misdemeanor), and displaying an imitation firearm in a public place with a prior (a misdemeanor), and a warrant alleging disobeying a lawful order of the court (a felony). Total bail was set at $192,000. He was taken into custody at 143 North Yolo Street, apt. #11, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Monday, May 2:
2:59 a.m., Alexander Phillip White, 23, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging violation of a court order to prevent domestic violence (a misdemeanor), battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc. (a misdemeanor), resisting or obstructing a public service officer (a misdemeanor), misdemeanor violation of probation, and felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $115,000. He was taken into custody at the Motel 6, 452 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
8:15 a.m., Joshua Everett Vallerga, 19, of Chico, was returned to the custody of the Glenn County Jail without bail on charges alleging battery of a law enforcement or detention officer by gassing, and vandalism (both felonies), and an out-of-county detainer (a felony). He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
5:40 p.m., Maxwell Albert Wackerman, 35, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging disobeying a court order (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $20,000. He was taken into custody at 304 Sixth Street by an Orland police officer.
5:51 p.m., Stephen James Baker-Rubio, 32, of Redding, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $30,000. He was taken into custody at the Butte County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Tuesday, May 3:
1:01 a.m., Steven Skyler Mayhew, 30, of Fair Oaks, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a Placer County Superior Court warrant alleging failure to appear on a felony charge. Bail was set at $60,000. He was taken into custody at the Chevron gas station, 1250 West Wood Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
3:11 a.m., Jose Alfredo Marmolejo, 28, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on a warrant alleging violation of parole (a felony). He was taken into custody on Newville Road at Interstate 5 by an Orland police officer.
11:25 a.m., Brian Lee Barnard, 51, of Orland , was committed to the Glenn County Jail without bail for felony violation of probation. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.
1:17 p.m., Christopher Dean Griffith, 30, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging failure to appear on a felony charge, and failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Total bail was set at $52,000. He was taken into custody at 4506 County Road H, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
1:20 p.m., Lisa Marie Heavrin, 45, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging disobeying a lawful order of the court (a felony). Bail was set at $12,000. She was taken into custody at 4506 County Road H, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
2:35 p.m., Jennifer May Shockley, 30, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on two warrants, one with unknown charges and the other with charges alleging battery, and entering a noncommercial dwelling during an incident (both misdemeanors). Total bail was set at $21,000. She was taken into custody at 224 North Shasta Street, Willows, by a Glenn County probation officer.
10:36 p.m., Eduardo Gutierrez-Morales, 20, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging giving false identification to a peace officer (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at South Street and Cortina Drive by an Orland police officer.
11:07 p.m., Raymond Michael Collingwood, 31, of Chico, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging public intoxication (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at the Sinclair gas station, 601 Sixth Street, Hamilton City, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Wednesday, May 4:
3:45 a.m., Abigail Ann Hawes, 33, of Redding, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a narcotic controlled substance, and possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (both misdemeanors). Bail was set at zero. She was taken into custody at the Pilot Travel Center, 4444 Commerce Lane, by an Orland police officer.
3:45 a.m., Brandon Casey Heaton, 30, of Redding, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of controlled substance paraphernalia (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at the Pilot Travel Center, 4444 Commerce Lane, by an Orland police officer.
1:20 p.m., Christopher Robert Thompson, 33, of Gerber, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a felony charge. Bail was set at $31,000. He was taken into custody at the Tehama County Jail by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
2:21 p.m., Selena Grace Marion, 30, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging misdemeanor hit and run, willful cruelty to a child with possible injury or death (a felony), driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (a misdemeanor), driving while under the influence of alcohol (a misdemeanor), assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm (a felony), and misdemeanor violation of probation. Bail was set at $95,000. She was taken into custody at the Chevron gas station, 848 Newville Road, by an Orland police officer. Two days later at the jail, at 12:04 p.m., she was remanded to the jail on a charge alleging misdemeanor violation of probation. Bail was set at $8,000.
4:50 p.m., Luis Fernando Vargas-Flores, 39, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging misdemeanor violation of probation. Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.
Thursday, May 5:
1:39 p.m., Adrian Rico Pimentel, 41, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a controlled substance, possession of controlled substance paraphernalia, and driving with a suspended license (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at Highway 162, east of Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
2:41 p.m., Clayton Glenn Relf, 33, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging using or being under the influence of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at 601 North Tehama Street, apt. #12, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
8:23 p.m., Alisa Christine Chambers, 40, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging disobeying a court order (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $25,000. She was taken into custody at 745 Paigewood Drive, apt. #45, by an Orland police officer.
9:50 p.m., Michael William Walton, 19, of Glenn, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, and driving while under the influence of alcohol (both misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody on Canal Road, north of Highway 32, Hamilton City, by a California Highway Patrol officer.
11:05 p.m., Heather Ann Mack, 37, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging failure to appear after giving a written promise (a misdemeanor). Total bail was set at $27,000. She was taken into custody on Highway 162 by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Friday, May 6:
11:15 a.m., Duane Milton Hubbard, 71, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging disobeying a court order (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody at 4582 Highway 99, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Saturday, May 7:
11:10 p.m., Damien Cruz Alvarez, 21, of Artois, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging possession of a controlled substance (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at zero. He was taken into custody on Highway 99, north of County Road 33, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Sunday, May 8:
12:43 a.m., Richard Howard Peterson, 49, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc. (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at 4140 County Road KK, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
12:44 a.m., Nelia Lee Chambers, 47, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging battery on a spouse, ex-spouse, date, etc. (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody at 4140 County Road KK, Orland, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
1:59 p.m., Tarra Michelle Bettencourt, 35, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody at Saint Monica’s Catholic Church, 1129 West Wood Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
Monday, May 9:
9 a.m., Laura Gutierrez Alcaraz, 44, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging misdemeanor violation of probation, and a warrant alleging failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Total bail was set at $19,000. She was taken into custody at 6155 Highway 162, sp. #18, Willows, by a Glenn County probation officer.
9 a.m., Michael Anthony Perez, 28, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging felony violation of probation, and a warrant alleging misdemeanor violation of probation. Total bail was set at $42,000. He was taken into custody at 6155 Highway 162, sp. #18, Willows, by a Glenn County probation officer.
10:56 a.m., Michael Armando Reyes, 32, of Stockton, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging assault with a deadly weapon with possible great bodily injury (a felony), and driving while under the influence of alcohol (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $50,000. He was taken into custody at 575 Sacramento Avenue, Hamilton City, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
12:30 p.m., Nicholas Walter Potter, 21, of Colusa, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging resisting a public service officer (a misdemeanor), and a warrant alleging misdemeanor vandalism. Total bail was set at $5,000. He was taken into custody at the ampm, 1399 West Wood Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
12:37 p.m., Dakota Joseph Sanapaw, 23, of Colusa, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on warrants alleging violation of probation, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and giving false information to a peace officer (all misdemeanors). Total bail was set at $15,000. He was taken into custody at the Dollar Tree, 460 North Humboldt Avenue, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
5:37 p.m., Crystal Ann Salas, 38, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on a warrant alleging willful cruelty to a child with possible injury or death (a felony). Bail was set at $50,000. She was taken into custody at 911 West Cedar Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
9:56 p.m., Kaelene Elizabeth Scritchfield, 30, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging violation of a court order to prevent domestic violence (a misdemeanor). Bail was set at $5,000. She was taken into custody at 442 Fourth Street, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
10:30 p.m., Gabriel Lopez Baeza, 42, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail without bail on charges alleging violation of post-release community supervision (a felony). He was taken into custody at the Glenn County Probation Department, Willows, by a probation officer.
Tuesday, May 10:
12:35 a.m., Benjamin Dominic Yazzie, 28, of Willows, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, driving while under the influence of alcohol, and driving with a license suspended for driving while under the influence (all misdemeanors). Bail was set at $10,000. He was taken into custody on the northbound side of Interstate 5, north of County Road 57, by a California Highway Patrol officer.
10:21 p.m., Steven Mitchell Butler, 31, of Orland, was booked into the Glenn County Jail on charges alleging felony violation of probation. Bail was set at $35,000. He was taken into custody at Tehama and Wood Streets, Willows, by a Glenn County Sheriff’s deputy.
The man injured by a horse at the Glenn County Fairgrounds on Saturday has been identified as 69-year-old Lennie Wood.
Wood was severely injured at about 2:35 p.m. on May 7. Initially, dispatchers reported that the man had been “run over by a horse,” but a witness later posted on Facebook that the horse “flipped over backwards and crushed him.”
The Enloe FlightCare helicopter was requested at about 2:41 p.m. The helicopter landed at the fairgrounds at 2:51 p.m., and it was off the ground at 3:10 p.m.
On Facebook, Shannon Hamilton-Taylor explained that the incident happened at a Gymkhana horse show, where Wood was reportedly assisting. Heather Smith said the show took place in the horse arena.
Wood is a resident of Chico, where he owns a floor covering business.
Former Willows resident Katherine (Craig) Moore, Ph.D., of Oakland, died on Thursday, March 31, 2022, after complications from surgery. She had been trying to correct a very painful and debilitating degradation of her spine due to osteoporosis.
She was born in Vallejo near the Mare Island Naval Base, where her father, Albert Craig, worked on electrical submarines as part of the war effort. Her mother, Jane Craig (Johnson), was a proud graduate of Mills College.
She was sister to Kenneth (deceased) and Richard.
She grew up in Willows, with good friends Liz (Croissant) Bartell and Andrea (Louie) Johnson. The three of them eventually travelled all over the world to admire beauty and do grand things that usually included eating the finest of whatever was available.
Katherine married Denis Moore, formerly of Mendocino County, in 1965. Although that union dissolved in 1994, it produced two sons, Robert (Christine) and Alan. Alan predeceased her in 2017.
She was grandmother to Glenn, to whom she referred as “the most perfect person in the world.”
She attended UC Davis and UC Berkeley. She returned to graduate school at UCB when her children were young, eventually earning a Ph.D. in Endocrinology.
She greatly enjoyed the life sciences, animals, and nature. She loved research, and eventually taught biology at junior colleges in the east bay area.
In between those experiences, she worked at things as diverse as being a fry cook at a local breakfast spot, to being a medical lab tech and phlebotomist.
A memorial service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 26, at the St. Luke’s Lutheran Church at 2491 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek. A short reception is to follow.
A private interment is planned for a later date.
Please make any memorial donations in Katherine’s name to the Oakland Zoo, under the name of The Conservation Society of California, PO Box 5238, Oakland, CA 94605.
The Glenn County Fairgrounds entrance on East Yolo Street. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
By Larry Judkins
Glenn County Observer
Emergency responders were dispatched Saturday afternoon to the Glenn County Fairgrounds for an accident originally reported as a “male run over by a horse.”
The incident initially went out at 2:35 p.m. from the Glenn County Sheriff’s communications center. Minutes later, emergency medical responders were called out by the dispatcher in Corning.
The FlightCare helicopter was also requested at about 2:41 p.m. The sheriff’s dispatcher reported that the helicopter was about eight minutes from the scene.
At about 2:45 p.m., Orland Fire Chief Justin Chaney reported he was responding to the fairgrounds, gate 3, for a “male run over by a horse.” The Corning dispatcher told him that FlightCare had been requested and had been given the coordinates for the fairgrounds.
FlightCare requested ground contact with fire personnel. At 2:46 p.m., Orland Fire Unit 23 said it was responding with three on board.
At 2:48 p.m., Unit 23 reported it was on-scene. The FlightCare helicopter could be heard flying overhead.
The helicopter landed at 2:51 p.m. Emergency responders loaded the patient into an ambulance to transport him the short distance to the waiting helicopter.
Personnel at the firehouse asked if more manpower is needed. Chief Chaney responded that sufficient personnel was present and that the patient was being taken to the helicopter.
Flightcare was off the ground at 3:10 p.m. and Orland fire units began returning to quarters.
A few minutes later, an Orland police officer told the sheriff’s dispatcher that he had left the scene. At 3:18 p.m., Unit 23 was back in quarters.
This was the 262nd incident for the Orland Volunteer Fire Department in 2022.
On Facebook, Shannon Hamilton-Taylor explained that the incident happened at a Gymkhana horse show. Heather Smith said the show took place in the horse arena.
Smith also posted that she witnessed the incident. She said, “Horse flipped over backwards and crushed him.”
She added, “He is going to need some good thoughts and prayers sent his way. He has a long recovery.”
Here are the latest incident reports from the Orland Police Department.
Wednesday, April 27:
12:03 a.m., Orland police officers responded to 1441 Pine Street for a report of a restraining order violation. Following an investigation, Herlindo Peredes, 31, of Orland, was arrested and booked for alleged violation of a domestic violence restraining order.
10:55 a.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Fifth Street to check on two children who weren’t at school. Officers contacted a 12-year-old and a 10-year-old, who were provided transportation to school.
11 a.m., Orland police officers responded to Orland High School for a report of a cold sexual assault. An investigation was initiated.
11:04 a.m., on Third Street at Walker Street, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a brown 1984 Ford pickup. Olfio Gonzalez, 57, of Orland, was cited for allegedly not wearing a seatbelt, expired registration, and no proof of insurance.
11:37 a.m., on Second Street at Shasta Street, Orland police officers responded to a report of a 911 hang-up. Officers conducted a search of the area but were unable to locate any disturbance.
2:57 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to a 911 hang-up call at 817 Newport Avenue. Officers contacted the residents and determined there was no problem and they did not make the call. Glenn County Sheriff’s Dispatch was unable to provide further information about the location of the call.
3:54 p.m., in the 200 block of East Mill Street, the Orland Police Department towed and stored a silver 2005 Volkswagen Jetta for abatement.
Thursday, April 28:
12:23 a.m., Orland police officers responded to the report of a woman who was yelling while walking in the road on East Street at Chapman Street. Officers contacted Maria Rodriguez, 60, of Orland. Following an investigation, Rodriguez was arrested and booked for allegedly being under the influence of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
3:04 p.m., on Monterey Street at Fifth Street, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a white 2009 Chevrolet Silverado. The 17-year-old male driver was cited for driving while unlicensed.
5:34 p.m., Orland police officers responded to assist Glenn County Sheriff’s deputies with a reported disturbance at 4230 County Road JJ.
6 p.m., Orland police officers responded to a report of a woman who had passed out at 706 Shasta Street. Officers assisted until no longer needed by medical personnel.
Friday, April 29:
1:34 a.m., on Commerce Lane at Newville Road, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a black 2008 Subaru Legacy. Following an investigation, Michael Arbuckle, 29, of El Dorado Hills, was arrested and booked on charges alleging driving while under the influence, and violation of DUI court probation.
10:35 a.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to the post office, 831 Fourth Street, for a report of vandalism. Officers contacted Benjamin Graves, who reported a damaged window.
11:37 a.m., Orland police officers responded to a report of a person trespassing and littering near the Super Shopper Auto Center, 683 East Walker Street. Officers checked the area but were unable to locate anybody matching the description.
12:03 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to a request for a welfare check at the Farwood Bar and Grill, 705 Fifth Street. Officers contacted Willieb Woods, 28, who said that she was not in need of any type of assistance.
12:28 p.m., Orland police officers responded to East Walker Street at Papst Avenue for a report of a person walking in the roadway, causing a traffic hazard. Tabitha Rubio, 40, was advised to stay out of the roadway. Rubio matched the description from an earlier call and was given a trespass admonishment from the business.
718 Fifth Street. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
1:38 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to 718 Fifth Street for a report of a landlord-tenant issue. Officers contacted Huynah Trang and learned he was renting a building to a tenant. When the tenant vacated, they left behind the remnants of a large-scale marijuana cultivation operation. Glenn County Major Crimes Task Force investigators responded to the scene and took over the investigation.
2:16 p.m., Orland police officers assisted Glenn County Sheriff’s deputies with a report of a man down on County Road 25 at County Road F.
2:28 p.m., Orland police officers responded to a report of an altercation at the Blue and White Laundry, 1018 South Street. Officers contacted Willieb Woods, 28. Following an investigation, Woods was arrested and booked on charges alleging criminal threats, brandishing a deadly weapon, displaying an imitation firearm in public, assault, battery, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
4:19 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the Orland Police Department lobby regarding a child custody issue. Officers contacted Tabitha Rubio, 40, who was requesting information regarding an ongoing investigation. Rubio was provided with information.
4:45 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the Orland Arbor Apartments, 819 Newport Avenue, for a medical aid with an unresponsive person. Officers contacted Vicki Nunneley, 66, who was asleep when her neighbor tried to wake her. There was no medical emergency.
9:10 p.m., on Papst Avenue at East Walker Street, an Orland police officer made a traffic enforcement stop on a white 2017 Toyota Prius. Corey Towe, 35, of Orland, was cited for allegedly failing to yield the right of way to traffic.
9:45 p.m., on Sixth Street at Colusa Street, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a gray 2019 Nissan Rogue. Aaron Oliva, 26, of Chico, was cited for allegedly speeding.
10:02 p.m., Orland police officers responded to a report of a possible traffic collision on Sixth Street at Almond Way. Officers determined that Antonio Hernandez, 66, of Orland, had fallen off a bicycle and there was no collision. Hernandez was arrested and booked for alleged public intoxication.
Saturday, April 30:
1:35 a.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to a report of loud music playing at the Paigewood Village Apartments, but the response was delayed for a priority call. When officers arrived, the music was no longer playing.
1:45 a.m., Orland police officers responded to assist Glenn County Sheriff’s deputies with a report of a domestic disturbance at 6379 County Road 16.
3:40 a.m., Orland police officers responded to assist the California Highway Patrol with translation at a possible traffic collision on Interstate 5 at County Road 20. Officers determined there was no collision, but learned of a domestic disturbance that occurred in the City of Orland.
2:10 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to a report of suspicious circumstances at Walgreens, 828 Newville Road. Employees said that two white males were in the store, acting suspicious for three hours prior to stealing a bag of vitamins. The males left prior to arrival of the officers and the incident was documented.
5:20 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the report of a commercial burglary alarm sounding at the Orland Pharmacy, 61 East Walker Street. Officers found the establishment to be secured and locked, with no signs of forced entry.
6:08 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the Dollar General, 851 Newville Road, for a report of a shoplifter. An employee reported a person by the name of Scott stole merchandise and would like him admonished for trespassing if located. Officers were unable to locate anybody matching the description.
8:47 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the Dollar General for a report of a cold shoplift. Store employees said a female stole several items.
9:42 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to a report of a possible abandoned vehicle in the 600 block of Fourth Street. The owner of the vehicle returned and got it running again.
9:49 p.m., Orland police officers assisted Glenn County Sheriff’s deputies with a report of shots heard in the area of County Roads FF and 8.
Sunday, May 1:
1:44 a.m., the Orland Police Department received multiple reports of an unknown person or persons throwing rocks at homes in the 100 block of Woodhaven Court. Officers conducted an extensive area search but were unable to locate anyone.
7:21 p.m., Orland police officers responded to a report of a non-injury traffic collision on Sixth Street at Walker Street. Officers arrived at scene and assisted the parties exchange information. Joseph Van Natta, 20, of Orland, was cited for allegedly driving a motorcycle without a motorcycle license.
9:33 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to a report of an open door at the First Christian Church, 635 A Street. Officers located the open door and searched the building. There was no indication of forced entry or that anyone had made access to the interior.
9:44 p.m., an employee at Dollar General reported James Beegle, 33, of Orland, stole a 12-pack of soda and left the area on foot. Officers searched the area but were unable to locate Beegle. The business declined to pursue a criminal complaint and requested to have Beegle admonished for trespassing if found.
Monday, May 2:
12:18 a.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to a report of a suspicious person behind Grocery Outlet, 1026 South Street. Officers contacted Robert McDonald, 33, of Orland, who was rummaging in the dumpster behind Grocery Outlet.
12:53 a.m., on Cortina Drive at Newport Avenue, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a white 2014 Ford F-250. Cody Taresh, 28, of Orland, was cited for allegedly failing to stop at a posted stop sign.
8:26 a.m., Orland police officers responded to 1148 East Walker Street, for a report of a stolen vehicle. Jeffrey Tollison, 41, reported a 2014 Ford Econoline was stolen sometime over the weekend. Tollison also reported miscellaneous items were taken from the school.
9:51 a.m., Orland police officers responded to CK Price Middle School, 1212 Marin Street, for a report of two juveniles vaping on school campus. Officers contacted a 12-year-old female and 13-year-old female. Both juveniles were counseled, and discipline was handled by the school.
12:01 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to the 300 block of Byron Way, for a report of a lost or stolen firearm. John Spooner, 68, of Orland, reported that he could not find his firearm.
12:36 p.m., Orland police officers responded to a report of a Grocery Outlet employee who had fallen. Officers assisted until no longer needed by medical personnel.
1:14 p.m., John Miller, 47, reported someone had tampered with the oil silo, creating an oil spill, at 615 East South Street. Miller requested documentation only at this time.
1:22 p.m., Aaron Barwick, 27, of Orland, reported he was the victim of fraud.
3:31 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the 100 block of Chapman Street for a request for a welfare check. Officers found the resident to be deceased and assisted the Glenn County Sheriff’s Office with a coroner’s investigation.
5:31 p.m., Orland police officers responded to Newville Road at Commerce Lane for a report of a reckless driver. Officers located the reported vehicle and contacted Maxwell Wackerman, 35, of Orland. Wackerman was subsequently arrested and booked for a Glenn County misdemeanor arrest warrant.
7:29 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the 100 block of Fifth Street for a report of a disturbance between juveniles. Officers contacted a 10-year-old boy who reported a 12-year-old boy pointed an airsoft pistol at him, would not let him leave the living room of his friend’s residence, then fired the airsoft pistol at him several times when he escaped. Following an investigation, the 12-year-old was cited and released to a family member for false imprisonment and discharging a BB gun within city limits.
Tuesday, May 3:
3:04 a.m., Orland police officers contacted Jose Marmolejo, 28, of Orland. He was arrested and booked for a felony CDC parole warrant.
1:18 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to a report of an elderly woman with dementia who had walked away from her residence. Officers found the woman about two blocks from her residence and assisted family members who responded to the location on Marin Street at Yolo Street.
10:23 p.m., on South Street at Cortina Drive, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a bicycle. Following an investigation, Eduardo Gutierrez-Morales, 20, of Orland, was arrested and booked for allegedly giving a false name. The bicycle was booked for safekeeping.
Wednesday, May 4:
3:08 a.m., Orland police officers contacted two people who were passed out in the front seat of a silver 2012 Toyota at the Pilot Travel Center. Following an investigation, Abigail Hawes, 33, and Brandon Heaton, 30, both of Redding, were arrested and booked on charges alleging possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.
10:13 a.m., the Orland Police Department was contacted by a 36-year-old Orland resident who reported that intimate photos of her were being distributed online.
1:48 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the Burger King restaurant, 901 Newville Road, for a report of a non-injury hit and run collision. Officers located the gold 2005 Chevy Malibu and detained Selena Marion, 30, of Orland. Following an investigation, Marion was arrested and booked on charges alleging hit and run, DUI, violation of probation, child endangerment and assault with a deadly weapon.
2:45 p.m., Shawnte Rackley, 18, of Orland, reported an unknown person who she met on social media was calling her phone and harassing her. Officers provided Rackley with information and documented the incident.
3 p.m., April Borer, 31, reported her 10-year-old son was threatened by a 12-year-old boy. Officers provided Borer with information and documented the incident.
Thursday, May 5:
1:31 a.m., Trudy Kennedy, unknown age, reported that on May 3, her multi-colored backpack was possibly lost or stolen. She requested documentation.
4:25 p.m., Orland police officers responded to the report of a woman asleep or passed out at the wheel of a vehicle at the gas pump. Officers contacted Haley Flores, 22, of Chico. Following an investigation, Flores was cited for alleged possession of a controlled substance.
5:14 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to the Carrillo Saw Shop, 622 Swift Street, for a report of a civil issue. Gene Stewart, 80, reported his lawn mower was at a business that now has a new owner but his lawn mower is no longer there. Stewart was provided with information on the civil process.
8:08 p.m., Orland police officers responded to a report of a possible domestic disturbance at the Paigewood Village Apartments, 745 Paigewood Drive. Officers contacted Alisa Chambers, 40, and John Moore, 35, both of Orland. Following an investigation, Chambers was arrested and booked for a misdemeanor Glenn County warrant.
8:49 p.m., Orland police officers were dispatched to the 500 block of First Street for a report of a child causing a disturbance. Officers contacted Shawnee Haslich, 38, who reported her child was no longer causing a disturbance and she declined further assistance.
10:36 p.m., on Newville Road at Interstate 5, an Orland police officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on a black 2008 GMC Sierra. Sergio Carrillo-Raygoza, 23, of Orland, was cited for allegedly failing to stop at a posted stop sign.
Orland lost a very creative couple when Rick Martens and his wife, Melanie, moved to Santa Cruz. Since Rick is retired and not into quilting like his wife, he gets creative and made from scratch this flower bed and retaining wall in front of their home. “I love not only the seahorse but the detail of the rubber lizard in the mouth of the shark,” comments their friend, Donna Wilder. Every time one little boy walks by the sculpture of the shark, he has to look to make sure the lizard is still in the shark’s jaws. Glenn County Observer caption provided by Donna Wilder. Photos by Melanie Martens.
Ten people gather to pray in front of the Carnegie Center in Orland on Thursday. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
By Larry Judkins
Glenn County Observer
For the first time since the more or less pre-pandemic year of 2019, the National Day of Prayer was observed publicly in Orland on May 5.
Ten people gathered in front of the steps of the Carnegie Center at noon on Thursday, May 5, to offer prayers for a variety of people and issues. In 1988, during the Reagan Administration, the U.S. Congress passed a law declaring the first Thursday in May to be a day for prayer in the United States.
His cross to his right and his Bible to his left, a participant in Thursday’s National Day of Prayer observance offers an invocation. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
Most if not all of the people in attendance for the Orland event seemed to be conservative, evangelical Christians. Many if not all of them were pastors and their spouses.
There were apparently no Roman Catholics, Mormons, or Jehovah’s Witnesses present.
In 1952, during the Cold War involving Christian capitalists vs. atheist communists, a joint resolution of Congress was passed that set aside a particular day each year – not necessarily the first Thursday in May – as an official prayer day. Prior to this, many U.S. Presidents had proclaimed days of prayer, but the specific day or days were chosen by the president.
As mentioned above, at the end of the Cold War, in 1988, Congress and President Reagan officially established the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer.
Neither in 1952 nor in 1988 did the members of Congress think twice about violating the U.S. Constitution that they had sworn to uphold. Despite the fact that the First Amendment states in relevant part, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion,” government officials were more than happy to accommodate and promote religion by making laws to create an official prayer day.
Conservative evangelical Christian participation in the National Day of Prayer is largely, on the national level, led by the National Day of Prayer Task Force. It is a private, non-profit subsidiary of the National Prayer Committee, founded in 1979 by Vonette Bright, wife of Bill Bright and cofounder of the Campus Crusade for Christ International.
The National Day of Prayer Task Force came into being in 1983. Not every president since 1988 has coordinated their observances with the task force, and even those who did get involved with the task force did not do so every year of their presidency.
From 1991 to 2016, the task force was led by Shirley Dobson, wife of James Dobson of Focus on the Family. Currently, the organization is led by Kathy Branzell, an author who earned her master’s degree in Biblical Studies at Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
Another participant offers a prayer in Orland on Thursday. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
The task force’s theme this year was “a call to praise in prayer.” President Biden, a Roman Catholic, doesn’t seem to have used the Protestant task force’s guidance in writing his prayer proclamation this year. The presidential proclamation reads:
Throughout our history, prayer has been an anchor for countless Americans searching for strength and wisdom in times of struggle and sharing hope and gratitude in seasons of joy. In public reflections on life’s many blessings and in quiet moments during life’s most difficult trials, Americans of nearly every background and faith have turned to prayer for comfort and inspiration. Prayer is a sacred right protected by free speech and religious liberty enshrined in our Constitution, and it continues to lift our spirits as we navigate the challenges of our time.
On this day, we recognize the healing power of prayer, especially as we recover from the trauma and loss of the COVID‑19 pandemic. Today we find ourselves in a moment of renewal – of lives saved, of new jobs created, and of new hope for rebuilding America. Today is also a moment of reflection when we are called to address some of the greatest challenges humanity has ever faced – saving our planet from the existential threat of climate change; responding to attacks on democracy at home and abroad; and living up to our Nation’s promise of liberty, justice, and equality for all.
As the late President Dwight D. Eisenhower once said, “There is a need we all have in these days and times for some help which comes from outside ourselves.” Across our diverse and cherished beliefs, on this National Day of Prayer, no matter how or whether we pray, we are all called to look outside ourselves. Let us find in our hearts and prayers the determination to put aside our differences, come together, and truly see one another as fellow Americans.
The Congress, by Public Law 100-307, as amended, has called on the President to issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a “National Day of Prayer.”
NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 5, 2022, as a National Day of Prayer. I call upon the citizens of our Nation to give thanks, in accordance with their own faiths and consciences, for our many freedoms and blessings, and I invite all people of faith to join me in asking for God’s continued guidance, mercy, and protection.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-sixth.
JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.
It should be noted what the Bible represents Jesus as saying about praying in public. According to Matthew 6:5-6, Jesus told his followers, “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
National Day of Prayer participants sing “God Bless America”. Glenn County Observer photo by Larry Judkins.
Among many other things, the people gathered at the Carnegie Center in Library Park on Thursday prayed for our political leaders (both local and national), more water, fewer wildfires, protection for firefighters, and the saving of America. They ended by singing “God Bless America” – twice, the second time as a prayer, ending it with, “amen.”
Ironically, this was done in front of a building built by and named after Andrew Carnegie, an atheist.
The Glenn County Observer 