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PEACE OFFICER'S MEMORIAL DAY - HONORING THE FALLEN

 

📝 Peace Officer’s Memorial Day – Honoring the Fallen, Supporting the Brave

By Del Albright

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“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” – John 15:13

Every May 15th, we pause to honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty as peace officers—guardians of our streets, our freedoms, and our daily lives.

Peace Officer’s Memorial Day is more than a date on the calendar. It’s a solemn reminder of sacrifice. It's a day when we, as a grateful nation, pay tribute to those who wore the badge with courage and commitment—many of whom never returned home.

These men and women stood on the thin blue line, often facing the unknown with unwavering resolve. Their work wasn’t just about enforcing laws—it was about protecting peace, defending freedom, and often, making the ultimate sacrifice in service to us all.

As someone who’s dedicated much of my life to service—whether through the military, wildland fire, or advocating for responsible land use—I feel a kinship with anyone who dons a uniform and steps into harm’s way for the greater good.

So today, I encourage us all to:

• Fly the flag at half-staff.

• Thank a peace officer.

• Remember the fallen.

• Support the living who carry that weight daily.

Let us honor not only their sacrifice but their spirit of service—a spirit that continues to protect our way of life every single day.

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#PeaceOfficersMemorialDay
#NeverForgotten
#ThinBlueLine
#HonorTheFallen
#DelAlbright

CINCO DE MAYO; MEXICAN CULTURE

 

CINCO DE MAYO; A CELEBRATION OF MEXICO'S CULTURE AND COURAGE

By Del Albright

Cinco de Mayo, celebrated each year on May 5th, is more than just a day for tacos and mariachi music—it's a vibrant recognition of Mexico’s rich heritage and enduring spirit. While many believe it marks Mexican Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo actually commemorates the Mexican Army's unexpected victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

For those of us who explore the American Southwest, desert trails, and historic routes once walked or ridden by early Mexican settlers, this day is a chance to reflect on the cultural threads woven into our shared landscape. From mission-style architecture to culinary traditions and off-road trails with Spanish names, the imprint of Mexico’s culture is everywhere.

This year, take a moment to honor the courage of those who stood their ground in 1862—and the traditions that continue to inspire generations. Support local Mexican-owned businesses, enjoy authentic cuisine, attend a cultural event, or simply raise a toast with friends while recognizing the roots of this meaningful holiday.

And as always, respect the land you travel—leave no trace, stay on the trail, never drink and drive, and celebrate responsibly.

¡Viva México!
www.delalbright.com

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL STARTS WITH YOU - PROTECT THE RIDE

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL — RESPECTING THE RIDE AND THE LAND

By Del Albright

Somewhere in the American West – where adventure meets stewardship.

There’s nothing quite like venturing into the backcountry, especially in places where the land still echoes with the raw beauty of America's wilderness. These mountains, ridgelines, and alpine trails are more than just playgrounds for Jeeps, side-by-sides, hikers, and campers — they are sacred spaces that tell the story of a wild, free America.

But with privilege comes responsibility.

Whether you're tackling a remote off-road route or setting up camp in a high-country saddle, it's up to each of us to treat our public lands like the treasures they are. Here are a few reminders for every outdoor explorer:

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🔹 Pack It In — Pack It ALL Out

Leave no trace. Bring a trash bag, pick up what others left behind, and set an example for those coming after you.

🔹 Stay On the Trail

Don’t be “that person.” Stay on designated trails to protect sensitive ecosystems and maintain access for the future.

🔹 No Drips on the Trail

A dripping rig is a trail killer. Regularly maintain your vehicle and keep your spot on the trail clean and leak-free.

🔹 Camp with Care

Choose durable ground, respect fire rules, and when you leave, your camp should look untouched — or better.

🔹 Pass It On

Bring the next generation. Teach young folks about outdoor respect, wheeling wisdom, and how to preserve what we love.

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We are blessed with millions of acres of public land in this country. They are ours — but only if we take care of them.

Let’s keep America the Beautiful… beautiful.

✦ See you on the trail —
Del

📍 EXPLORE MORE FROM DEL:

• 📖 Books & Guides – From cowboy poetry to conservation
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• 💼 Tools for Volunteers & Leaders

GOLDEN MUSSEL LAKE CLOSURES IN CALIFORNIA

AGE OF THE GOLDEN MUSSEL (LAKE CLOSURES, RESTRICTIONS, MANAGEMENT)

By Del Albright

(DISCLAIMER: This is the best information I could find as of 5/2/2025. I can’t be sure it will hold true for very long. Be sure to check your lake or water controlling agency before attempting to launch your boat. Things change fast.)

 

The golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei), an invasive freshwater species native to Asia, was first detected in North America in October 2024 at the Port of Stockton in California's Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Since then, it has been found in other locations, including O’Neill Forebay near Los Banos .

Threats and Impacts

Golden mussels pose significant ecological and economic threats:

• Infrastructure Damage: They can clog water intakes, pipes, and hydroelectric systems, affecting water delivery, agriculture, and power generation.
• Ecosystem Disruption: By filtering out plankton, they disrupt food chains, leading to declines in native fish populations and contributing to harmful algal blooms.
• Recreational and Economic Costs: Infestations can lead to waterbody closures, mandatory inspections, and increased maintenance costs for boats and infrastructure.

Statewide Response

California has initiated a coordinated response through the Golden Mussel Task Force, comprising agencies like the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), Department of Water Resources (DWR), and California State Parks. The response framework includes:

• Containment and Prevention: Mapping high-risk areas, enhancing boat inspection and decontamination protocols, and investigating spread pathways .
• Education and Outreach: Promoting the "Clean, Drain, Dry" campaign to prevent mussel spread via watercraft .
• Incentives and Partnerships: Providing $1 million in grants to boating facilities for prevention efforts.

Local Actions

Various lakes and regions have implemented specific measures:

• Folsom Lake and Lake Clementine: Mandatory 30-day quarantine for all trailered and motorized vessels starting April 14, 2025 .
• Lake Tahoe: Mandatory decontaminations for all visiting motorized watercraft, with updated fee structures to support the program .
• Yuba River Watershed: Regular monitoring and sampling for mussels, with emphasis on self-inspection and cleaning of watercraft.
• Lake Berryessa and Lake Camanche: Implemented boat launch restrictions and closures to prevent mussel introduction.

Public Involvement

The public plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of golden mussels:

• Report Sightings: If you observe golden mussels, take clear photos and report them to CDFW via email at invasives@wildlife.ca.gov or call (866) 440-9530.
• Follow Protocols: Always clean, drain, and dry your watercraft and equipment before moving between water bodies.

🛑 New Melones Reservoir (Tuolumne County)

• Boat Launch Suspension: Since December 7, 2024, all boat launches have been temporarily suspended to prevent the spread of golden mussels.
• Quarantine Seal Program: Boaters can obtain a free quarantine seal from park rangers at the Glory Hole boat launch. This seal initiates a 30-day dry-out period, after which boats may be eligible for future launching.
• Inspection Protocols: Staff are developing new inspection procedures to ensure watercraft are mussel-free before launching.

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🚫 Pardee Reservoir (Amador and Calaveras Counties)

• Boat Launch Closure: The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) has closed all private boat launches at Pardee Reservoir for the 2025 season as a precautionary measure.
• Collaborative Planning: EBMUD is working with state and federal agencies to develop long-term strategies to prevent golden mussel infestations.
• Recreational Access: While boat launches are closed, shoreline fishing, hiking, camping, and boat rentals remain available.

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🛡️ Lake Oroville (Butte County)

• Preventative Measures: Golden mussels have not been detected at Lake Oroville. The Department of Water Resources (DWR) is implementing measures to prevent their introduction.
• Watercraft Inspections: DWR, in coordination with the California Department of Parks and Recreation and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, plans to initiate watercraft inspections at Lake Oroville and surrounding State Water Project facilities within the next month.
• Public Education: Boaters are urged to follow the "Clean, Drain, Dry" protocol to prevent the spread of invasive species.

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🧭 Statewide Coordination

These local efforts are part of a broader response coordinated by the Golden Mussel Task Force, which includes agencies like CDFW, DWR, and California State Parks. The task force focuses on containment, prevention, education, and infrastructure protection to combat the spread of golden mussels across California's waterways.

Again, I suggest you check first and check now, long before you want to launch in any lake these days.

Del

 

MAY IS MILITARY APPRECIATION MONTH

 

Military Appreciation Month – Honoring Our Heroes, One Act at a Time

By Del Albright

May is Military Appreciation Month—a dedicated time to honor and show gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve in our U.S. Armed Forces. This includes the brave men and women of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and the Space Force. Whether on active duty, reserves, or retired, every service member has made sacrifices for the freedoms we enjoy daily.

For many of us, showing our appreciation doesn't require grand gestures. It can start with a handshake, a heartfelt thank you, or a moment of silence at a veteran's memorial. Here are a few ways we can show our support this month:

✅ Visit a Local Veterans' Cemetery – Walk the grounds, place a flag or flower, or simply pause in reverence. Read the headstones and remember their stories.
✅ Spend Time at a VA Facility or Veterans' Home – Many veterans appreciate a conversation, a listening ear, or just some company.
✅ Attend a Community Event or Ceremony – Many towns host parades, services, or tributes. Your presence matters.
✅ Support a Veteran-Owned Business – It's an easy but impactful way to show thanks and strengthen our communities.
✅ Fly the American Flag – Do it proudly and respectfully. Let it signal your support.
✅ Teach the Next Generation – Share the meaning of this month with kids and grandkids. Tell the stories.
✅ Volunteer or Donate to a Veteran Support Organization – From the American Legion to the VFW to local outreach groups, there are many ways to help.

This month, let's go beyond words. Let's show our appreciation through action. Our military families and veterans deserve nothing less.

"We live in the land of the free because of the brave."

Thank you, Del.

De Oppresso Liber

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

 

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

A Nation United in Prayer – May 1st

By Del Albright

Every year, on the first Thursday of May, Americans from all walks of life take a moment to pause, reflect, and pray. This National Day of Prayer reminds me of the foundational values that built this country—faith, family, freedom, patriotism, and peace.

It’s more than a tradition. It’s a national reminder that no matter what challenges we face, we are stronger when we seek clarity, hope, and healing together.

As someone who has walked the path of military service, fought in combat, led outdoor adventures across this great land, and advocated for the responsible use of our public lands, I can tell you — the soul of this nation lies in the hearts of those who believe in something greater than themselves.

On this day, I pray for:

• Our Nation — to find unity in purpose, strength in diversity, and resolve in hard times.

• Our Families — to thrive in love, guided by values that last generations.

• Our Health — to continue the journey of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

• Our Land — that we continue to be good stewards of the beauty we’ve been blessed with.

• Our Peace — that we learn to listen, forgive, and support one another in meaningful ways.

Whether you're sitting quietly in the woods, driving a backroad trail with your family, or standing beside your neighbor at a community gathering — take a moment this May 1st. Say a prayer. Share a thought. Be still. And remember, we're all in this together.

Let’s keep the faith, cherish our freedoms, and stand tall for what we believe in.

God bless America.

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