TEAM – SISKIYOU NEWS
The journalists and professionals behind Siskiyou News
Jay A. Martin
Owner & Publisher
Founder of Siskiyou News, Jay A. Martin has spent many years covering local issues with a focus on accuracy, accountability, and independent journalism.
Shareen Strauss
Author
Shareen Strauss is a dedicated writer known for digging into details and uncovering the smaller stories within the bigger picture.
Bob Kaster
Adjudication & Legal Standards
Bob Kaster assists with adjudication, legal issues, court compliance, and writing standards as a retired legal professional and volunteer.
Wendy Crist
Author
For nearly 10 years I wrote a garden column that was published in the three South County papers, Weed, Dunsmuir and Mt Shasta. At the time I was the (original) chief cook and bottle-washer for the Brown Trout Gallery in Dunsmuir. I’m hoping your gardens are burgeoning and that I’m contributing to your enthusiasm in the gardening world. You are always welcome to ask questions. My email address is [email protected]. Please be respectful.
Michael Grifantini
Author (Environment & Nature Science)
Michael Grifantini holds degrees in Wildlife Biology and Forest Ecology and has worked with timber companies, the U.S. Forest Service, and consulting firms, spending his career studying forests, plants, and wildlife across Northern California.
Micheal Hawk
Contributor
Michael (AKA “The Hawk” as he jokingly referred to himself in the military) went to the Air Force Academy – arguably one of the least fun and most rigorous universities in the country. He graduated with a degree in biology. Wrestled throughout college and then decided to enter the Air Force Combat Rescue Officer/ Pararescueman Pipeline where 1 out of 10 trainees graduate. In his class, 17 out of the original 142 made it. So, you could say he was a cool guy. Jumped out of airplanes, climbed big rocks, cut people out of cars, fast roped out of helicopters. Highly trained in personnel recovery, combat search and rescue. Just your average day. “Now he’s is living in Scott Valley rescuing plumbing under his new company -THE HAWK PLUMBING SERVICES.
John Martinez
Contributor
John Martinez was an executive in the Mexican insurance industry. He was the director of economic development for the Karuk Tribe. As a journalist for several decades, Martinez has focused on the environmental and drug cartel issues in Northern California.
Sohaib Ur Rehman
Coding, Development & Social Media
Sohaib Ur Rehman manages development and social media operations, supporting Siskiyou News through long-distance collaboration.
A NOTE FROM THE FOUNDER
Shareen Strauss is the embodiment of community devotion—a heart so loving and dedicated, you’d be hard-pressed to find her equal. She speaks truth with a directness that cuts through noise yet lands with grace, and her community spirit is nothing short of precious. Grounded in her own sense of self, she moves through the world with tolerance and an unwavering eye for life’s bright side.
-JAY A MARTIN (FOUNDER)
Sohaib has been a trusted colleague and friend for several years. Our connection began through shared values, faith, and a commitment to charitable work, particularly efforts to support those experiencing homelessness.
Based overseas, Sohaib brings integrity, reliability, and a strong understanding of both Western culture and the challenges facing his home city of KHI. He is deeply invested in public safety and community wellbeing, and has consistently demonstrated professionalism in every responsibility entrusted to him.
Recently, Sohaib joined Siskiyou News to support our digital development and social media efforts. His contributions strengthen our newsroom’s reach and reinforce our commitment to responsible, community-focused journalism.
-JAY A MARTIN (FOUNDER)
