Rural counties gather to strategize a regional approach to COVID-19
 
SACRAMENTO – On October 29 th, 2020, Assemblywoman Megan Dahle (R-Bieber) partnered with Assemblymember James Gallagher (R-Yuba City), Assemblymember Kevin Kiley (R-Rocklin), Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber), and Senator Jim Nielsen (R-Tehama) to host a North State Conference. This offered delegates from northern counties an opportunity to meet with state representatives to coordinate a regional response to reopening the local economy, schools, and actions in response to the state’s threat to withhold entitled funds from counties.
 
As Governor Newsom has enforced an extended State of Emergency and continued to dictate a one-size-fits-all approach to COVID-19 response, the North State Conference was a productive, consensus-building opportunity for open dialogue between 13 counties from the North State. They were able to find agreement upon several action items that will be followed through with in the coming weeks and presented to the Governor for further productive conversation. Ultimately, the intent is to move forward with a localized approach to COVID-19 mitigation in the coming winter months.
 
“I’m very proud of the North State and the exceptional job we have done mitigating the spread of COVID-19, and it is time for us to take the reins in mapping out our region’s long-term plan of action.” Said Dahle. “This conference allowed us to come together in agreement on what our region truly needs. Support for our counties’ to continue their good work, mental and emotional health resources for our constituents who have been seriously affected by the pandemic, and ensuring we protect the vulnerable without holding businesses hostage are among our top priorities. Together, we have confronted the realities of the pandemic’s economic devastation on our communities, and I am committed to creating a plan we can carry forward to the highest levels of state government to advocate for what is best for the people of the North State.”
 
Assemblywoman Dahle has also co-authored a letter with a number of rural education leaders urging her federal counterparts to extend the expiration deadline for CARES Act funds paid to state and local governments from December 30, 2020, through 2021. This is essential to the regional recovery effort from the Coronavirus.
 
Assemblywoman Megan Dahle represents the 1st Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes portions of Butte and Placer counties, along with Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, and Siskiyou counties.
​

​USFS-Tahoe National Forest is hiring for TEMPORARY FIRE and NON-FIRE positions for the 2021 field season. The anticipated start date for these positions is April, May and/or June 2021.


The Tahoe National Forest, FIRE AND AVIATION MANAGEMENT is looking to hire enthusiastic, highly motivated individuals for TEMPORARY positions as Wildland Firefighters on Engines, Handcrews/Hotshots, Helicopter Helitack Crews, Fuels, Lookout and Dispatch positions which respond to local and national fire and all-hazard incidents. Duty locations for TNF positions include Truckee, Sierraville, Soda Springs, White Cloud, Nevada City, Downieville, Camptonville, Foresthill, and Grass Valley.


Vacancy announcements for these fire positions, which can be found by searching Forest Service ‘forestry technician’ and ‘forestry aid’, on www.USAJobs.gov open on October 30, 2020 and close on November 9, 2020. For all job announcements, pay close attention to duty locations, job duties/responsibilities, and specific closing date. Ensure application is complete and thorough with all required documents. Applications MUST be submitted on USAjobs.gov by 8:59 pm PST on the closing date to be considered.


Pro Tip- Contact fire personnel at duty station you are interested in and don’t wait until the last day to submit application on USAjobs.gov. Fire Applications for these TNF Temporary positions will only be accepted from Oct. 30-Nov. 9, 2020.

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 1.  The time change may disrupt sleep patterns and affect the ability to concentrate and safely operate a motor vehicle.  To highlight the life-threatening dangers of fatigued driving, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) joins the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and the National Sleep Foundation in recognizing Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, November 1-8, 2020, and encouraging Californians to stay alert and stay alive.
 
“Staying alert behind the wheel goes beyond avoiding distractions,” said CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley.  “The other major contributor to driver inattention is drowsy driving.  Fatigue can have a similar impairment effect as drugs or alcohol.”
 
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, being awake for at least 18 consecutive hours is the same as having a blood alcohol content of .05 percent.  On average, in California there are more than 6,000 crashes annually that are attributed to drowsy driving.
 
“If you’re feeling sleepy, you shouldn’t be driving,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said.  “When you ask yourself, ‘Am I OK to drive?’, the answer should factor in not only if you’ve been drinking or have taken drugs that impair, but also if you’ve had enough rest.”
 
“We should all remember that despite the pace of life, it’s vitally important to avoid driving when fatigued or without adequate rest,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. “Caltrans operates more than 85 Safety Roadside Rest Areas throughout the state, each providing a convenient place to rejuvenate before returning to the highway.”
 
The public can view rest area locations by visiting: http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov/.
 
Some suggested tips to avoid drowsy driving include getting at least seven hours a day, sticking to a sleep schedule, and avoiding alcohol or medications that can cause drowsiness.  Caffeinated beverages may help in the short term, but are not a substitute for sleep or rest.  Stay alert and drive without distraction not only to protect yourself, but also your passengers and other motorists.
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 
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Truckee, CA - Tahoe Truckee Media manager Rory O’Farrell has been appointed to the National Board of Directors of the Alliance for Community Media (ACM)  and will join the board in November. 

“It’s a privilege and an honor to be asked to join the Board of an organization I have respected for years. The ACM provides the policy and professional support that keeps free speech media thriving in our communities.,” said O’Farrell.

O’Farrell has been with Tahoe Truckee Media (formerly TTCTV), an educational and government media center, for more than 10 years .  He came to Truckee High School in 2009 to teach Video Production classes, and soon thereafter began working on local coverage of events for Tahoe Truckee Media (TTM). 
                           
TTM operates Channels 6 & 18 on Suddenlink Cable in the Truckee/North Tahoe region. 

As a member of the Western Regional Board of the ACM, O’Farrell has organized the annual WAVE awards for community video excellence for the past three years. 

Founded in 1976, the ACM represents over 3,000 Public, Educational and Governmental (PEG) access organizations and community media centers throughout the country. The ACM works to protect the interests of these access centers, and the communities they serve,  to advance their causes through cable television and the Internet.

​

Quincy, CA – Beginning Nov. 1, Plumas National Forest Christmas tree cutting permits may be purchased on-line in addition to the existing mail-in option. Trees may be cut through Dec. 31.

“We’re very pleased to have two options available for people to obtain Christmas Tree permits, especially with our offices still closed,” said Forest Supervisor Chris Carlton. “Hopefully this important family tradition will help provide some comfort during what has been, such a difficult year for so many people.”
On-line permits may be purchased at www.recreation.gov/tree-permits/plumas . Prior to purchasing a permit, carefully review the Need-to-Know and Planning Your Trip information provided on the page. Visitors to the Recreation.gov site will need to create a new account--or log in to an existing account--to complete their transaction. Permits are $10 plus a $2.50 service fee. All sales are final with no refunds.
In order to ensure timely delivery, mail-in requests must be received by Dec. 1 at the Plumas National Forest Supervisors Office, Attn. Christmas Tree Permit, 159 Lawrence Street, Quincy, CA 95947. Permits are $10; two permits are allowed per household; please read the instructions on your permit carefully. Sales are final with no refunds.
In addition to the areas in which tree cutting is not allowed (see cutting map included with mail-in permits and available via links with on-line permits), three areas have been closed due to public safety concerns involving the North Complex (Bear/Claremont), Sheep and Walker fires that burned either late last year or are still burning this year. Maps of the fire closure areas may be found at https://www.fs.usda.gov/plumas/alerts-notices .
To ensure your visit to the forest is an enjoyable and safe experience, please follow these important tips:
Let someone know where you’re going, your estimated return time, a description of your vehicle and remember, cell phones may not work!
Bring cold weather clothing, even if the day is nice when you start out. Bring emergency food and water, first-aid kit, tire chains, and shovel. Have a full tank of gas in your vehicle and don’t forget to bring a map.
For additional information about cutting Christmas trees on the Plumas National Forest, visit
http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/plumas/passes-permits/forestproducts .
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. 

​

 
 
People v Mark Kenneth Oliver (20CR0053)
 
On September 8, 2020, Mark Kenneth Oliiver,  age 33 of Reno, NV was convicted of violating Vehicle Code section 23103.5, a misdemeanor.  He was sentenced to 18 months probation; ordered to complete a DUI class and pay a fine.
 
People v.Gary Nicholas Gonzalas (CR03654)
 
On September 8, Gary Nicholas Gonzales, age 40, of Nevada City, was convicted of reckless driving, Vehicle Code section 23103, a misdemeanor.  He was placed on 4 months probation and must complete 40 hours of community service.
 
People v. Bryan Alexander Peters (20CR0047)
 
On September 11, 2020, Bryan Alexander Peters, age 32, of Reno, NV, was convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol, Vehicle Code section 23152.  He was placed on 3 years probation, ordered to attend a DUI class and pay a fine. 
 
People v. Ashley Jaren Blackwell (19CR4064/19CR4040)
 
On October 6, 2020, Ashley Jaren Blackwell of Downieville, was convicted of violating Penal Code section 487(a), a misdemeanor, and Health and Safety Code section 11377(a), possession of a controlled substance.  He was sentenced to 30 days on electronic monitoring, ordered to reimburse Sierra County funds, placed on two years formal probation and order to pay fines.
 
People v. Angelo Lamar Ancheta (20CR0040)
 
On October 9, 2020, Angelo Lamar Ancheta, age 37, of Reno, NV was convicted of violating Penal Code 29805(a), prohibited person with a firearm, a misdemeanor.  He was sentenced to 2 years probation, ordered to pay a fine, and prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. 
 
People v. Jaclyn Marie Jones (20CR0010)
 
On October 20, 2020, Jaclyn Marie Jones, age 24 of Fresno, was convicted of violating Vehicle Code section 23103.5. a misdemeanor.  She was sentenced to 18 months probation; ordered to complete a DUI class and pay a fine.
 
People v. Daniel Craig Baldwin (20CR0082)
 
On October 20, 2020, Daniel Craig Baldwin, age 55 of Reno, NV was convicted of violating Public Resources Code section 4423.5, restricted use of fire, a misdemeanor.  He was ordered to pay a fine.
 
People v. Craig Harmeling Mulder (20CR0008)
 
On October 20, 2020, Craig Harmeling Mulder, age 67, of Clio, was convicted of violating Vehicle Code section 23103.5. a misdemeanor.  He was sentenced to 18 months probation; ordered to complete a DUI class and pay a fine.
 
People v. Bianca Blu Branson (20CR0073)
 
On October 23, 2020, Bianca Blu Branson, age 41, of Reno, NV, was convicted of violating Health and Safety Code section 11364(a) and 11377(a), possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.  She was sentenced to serve 105 days in jail, placed on two years probation, and ordered to pay a fine.
 
People v. Peter George Clark (20CR0009)
 
On October 23, 2020, Peter George Clark, age 54, of Loyalton, was convicted of violating Penal Code section 29800(a)(1), a felony, prohibited person possessing a firearm.  He was sentenced to 3 years formal probation, classes at the direction of Probation Officer, and prohibited from owning/possession firearms or ammunition.

By Harold Pease, Ph.D.



Freedom and our Constitution are on the 2020 ballot because you can’t have one without the other.  We are the freest people on the planet and for the longest time because of the U.S. Constitution.  No governing document has harnessed those who govern us more fully or better than this document.  
This is so because it is based upon natural inalienable rights coming from God.  It can not be understood fully without viewing it as an extension of the Declaration of Independence in which God was referenced five times.  The document authorized our right to rebel from tyranny and, with victory, we constructed a document insuring government tyranny could never return.  This inspired document gave Americans freedom from excessive government.  Yes, it took a war and some time to make freedom apply to everyone, but we succeeded.
Freedom is always on the ballot but more so now than at any other time.  This column does not name parties or persons because these are stumbling blocks to some, but is asking Americans to consider what we have before voting to lose it.
The Second Amendment, “a well regulated militia,” (the people are the militia then and today), such “being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.”  No other amendment uses these last four words which mean off limits to government.  No city, county, state nor even the federal government can make any laws infringing on our inalienable right to protect ourself, and our collective right to resist our own government should it defy constitutional government—the same right used by our Founders to resist the British government by force when it became tyrannical.  
It is ironic that in our day as anarchy reigns in our biggest cities that these same cities elect to defund or disband those hired to protect us from violence, that gun sales automatically escalate.  The major political parties are polar opposite on your right of self defense.  One presidential primary candidate stating, “HELL YES, WERE GOING TO TAKE YOUR AR-15, YOUR AK-47.”  “Vote wisely, all other freedoms hinge on this one.  
There are other areas in which “Congress shall make no law.”  The 1st Amendment specifically named: religion, speech, press, assembly and the right to petition the government for grievances.   The prohibitions were extended to state governments also by the 14th Amendment.  But in 2020 it was in these areas that more rights of Americans were taken than in any other single year in U.S. History—those who love freedom viewed the actions of some governors as dictatorial, even tyrannical. 
The most violated of these were freedoms of assemble, religion, and press.  With stay at home decrees “peaceably to assemble” vanished, unless you were rioting.  
“Congress shall make no law, respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”  One political party supported governors arbitrarily prohibiting religious gatherings, limiting their number, and enforcing other provisions for their meetings during the Wuhan Virus Scare—all unconstitutional.  The other, maintained that everything in life is a risk and left the assessment of risk, and its consequences, to parishioners, honoring the Constitution which prohibited any government involvement.  The very definition of liberty is freedom from excessive government.  One party wants government intervention in potentially every aspect of human life, the other thinks that the best government is the least government.  This is called freedom.
Congress shall make no law abridging the “freedom of the press.”  Certainly censorship of the press by government is constitutionally forbidden but what about the government (Congress) allowing monopolies Google, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter exemption from law suits for their horrendous censorship practices.  Only the views of one party is censored so it obviously objects.  One party encourages the disclosure of information regarding candidates before a vote; the other endorses—even practices censorship.  Today big tech has more power over press issues than the federal government—they are social media.  Some data shows a marriage between big tech and one of the major political parties.  When that party returns to power so does big tech.
Other issues divide the parties as well.  One such is globalism vs. American Independence.  Our system of government is designed to problem solve from the bottom up essentially never elevating to a higher level that which can be resolved at a lesser level.  But there are many today who wish to problem solve from the top down—even from the United Nations down.  This notion has different and changing names: world government, internationalism, new world order, and now globalism.  Globalists see nationalism as an enemy and seek to transfer decision making power to unelected international bureaucratic organizations.  Today one political party endorses globalism, the other American Independence. 
Until 2016 both parties failed to follow the Constitution as written, distorting sections when convenient.  Today the biggest divide of the political parties is over the Constitution itself: one party undermining it, distorting it at every turn, the other now seeking to adhere more strictly “as written.”  
This election the Constitution and liberty are clearly on the ballot; making it the most important in our history.  We must retain what has been tried and proved.  We must choose freedom over tyranny, the free market over socialism and the Constitution as written.  It would be wise to consider what we have before voting to lose it.

 
Dr. Harold Pease is a syndicated columnist and an expert on the United States Constitution. He has dedicated his career to studying the writings of the Founding Fathers and applying that knowledge to current events. He taught history and political science from this perspective for over 30 years at Taft College.  Newspapers have permission to publish this column. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.

 
Copyright (C) 2020 LibertyUnderFire.org All rights reserved.

DES MOINES, Iowa —  While at Neil Smith National Wildlife Refuge, U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt signed a Secretary’s Order that waives entrance fees to national parks, wildlife refuges and other public lands and waters managed by the Department of the Interior for 5th grade students and their families from now until Aug. 31, 2021.  
Secretary Bernhardt’s actions ensure that American 5th grade students who may have been unable to make full use of the Every Kid Outdoors Annual 4th Grade Pass during the 2019-2020 academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic will have free access to national parks and other Federal lands managed by the Department during this academic year. 
“The Trump Administration has made expanding public access to America's national parks and public lands a top priority, especially during this year’s pandemic,” said Secretary Bernhardt. “Programming was limited at times for last year’s fourth graders through the Every Kid Outdoors program, so we’re allowing this year’s 5th graders free access to our public lands throughout the 2020-2021 academic year. We hope these kids and their families take advantage of the incredible physical and mental benefits of getting outside and visiting a park, refuge or campground near them.” 
A majority of Interior-managed lands remained accessible to the public at the onset of the pandemic to serve as places of respite and rejuvenation and allow for social distancing. Services were limited for visitors, in particular impacting the Every Kid Outdoors Program. Nearly all units and locations are currently accessible with many having restored services for the public to enjoy following proper public health and safety guidelines. 
Families and students can download their 5th grade passes online at www.nps.gov/kids.
Background Information on the Every Kid Outdoors Program Through the Every Kid Outdoors Program for fourth grade students, entrance fees for the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and standard amenity recreation fees for the Bureau of Land Management and the Bureau of Reclamation are waived, providing limitless opportunities to explore, learn, and recreate in spectacular settings. The pass does not cover expanded amenity fees such as camping or boat rides. 
The program focuses on children around 10 years of age based on research that indicates children ages 9–11 are at a unique developmental stage in their learning where they begin to understand how the world around them works in more concrete ways, and they are more receptive to engaging with nature and the environment. By focusing on this age group year after year, the program aims to ensure every child in the United States has the opportunity to visit their Federal lands and waters by the age of 11 years, hopefully establishing lifelong bonds to our country’s natural and cultural heritage. 
More information is available online at EveryKidOutdoors.gov. 

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WASHINGTON, Oct. 27 – The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) today endorsed Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.) for re-election to Congress.
 
“Rep. LaMalfa has consistently fought to promote policies to address ongoing housing affordability concerns that will enable more hardworking American families to achieve homeownership or have access to suitable rental housing,” said NAHB Chairman Chuck Fowke, a custom home builder from Tampa, Fla.
 
Housing is important to local, state and national economies and accounts for about 15 percent of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. NAHB believes in this critical election year that it is important to elect pro-housing, pro-business candidates to Congress to ensure that housing and the economy move forward.
 
“We are proud to endorse Rep. LaMalfa for re-election,” said Fowke. “He has worked tirelessly to promote job training programs that will help ensure an ample supply of well-trained workers to build the nation’s homes.”
 
New home construction is an engine of job creation. On average, workers from 22 fields are needed to build a home. Constructing 100 single-family homes creates nearly 300 full-time jobs and $11.1 million in fees and taxes for all levels of government to help fund schools, roads, police and firefighters.
 
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ABOUT NAHB: The National Association of Home Builders is a Washington-based trade association representing more than 140,000 members involved in home building, remodeling, multifamily construction, property management, subcontracting, design, housing finance, building product manufacturing and other aspects of residential and light commercial construction. NAHB is affiliated with 700 state and local home builders associations around the country. NAHB's builder members will construct about 80 percent of the new housing units projected for this year.
 
 

 
SACRAMENTO, Calif. –  The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is launching a new education and enforcement campaign to reduce the number of crashes caused by impaired drivers in California.  Efforts associated with the yearlong Safer Highways Statewide grant will continue through September 30, 2021.
 
The Safer Highways Statewide grant provides the CHP with funding to conduct additional driving under the influence (DUI) saturation patrols, DUI checkpoints, and traffic safety education efforts throughout the state.  Additionally, the CHP will participate in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign.
 
“DUI is the result of poor decision-making, and too often, it has tragic consequences,” said CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley.  “If you drive while impaired, you could be arrested, or worse, involved in a crash.”
 
In 2018, there were 566 deaths and 11,298 injuries associated with DUI crashes within the CHP’s jurisdiction.  Each one of these injuries and deaths represents a preventable tragedy and a continued need to focus efforts on reducing impaired driving. 
 
The CHP reminds the public, “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.”  Alcohol, cannabis, prescription medications, illegal drugs, or any combination of these, can impair your ability to drive and will result in an arrest if you are under the influence.  Always designate a sober driver, take public transportation, or call a taxi or a ride-share service.  There is always a better option than getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.
 
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the Office of Traffic Safety, through NHTSA. 
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

 
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) will swear in 77 new officers during at a ceremony at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento on Friday, October 30, 2020.  Under normal circumstances, the CHP would invite family, friends, CHP employees, and the media to attend and celebrate the tremendous accomplishment of these new officers.  However, due to COVID-19, the cadets will receive their badges in a physically distant ceremony attended only by the cadets, CHP Executive Management, and essential Academy staff.  The CHP instead will have three cadets available for remote media interviews the day before graduation.
 
The new officers begin their careers with more real-life experience than any other class.  The CHP closed its live-in Academy in West Sacramento on March 20, 2020, and sent the seven women and 70 men of Cadet Training Class (CTC) III-19 on temporary work assignments in CHP Area offices near their residences.  On September 14, 2020, all members of CTC III-19 returned to complete their training at the reopened Academy under enhanced health and safety measures.
 
WHO: Cadets Kenton DeWald Jr., Kyle Goe, and Ami Ray                  
 
WHEN: 11:45 a.m., Thursday, October 29, 2020.  CHP will provide the link upon RSVP.
 
IMPORTANT NOTES:   Media wishing to participate in the interviews must:
 

• RSVP no later than 10 a.m., Wednesday, October 28.  RSVP should include the name of the reporter, media outlet, and e-mail address.

 

• Agree to embargo publication/airing of the interviews and press release until the completion of the graduation ceremony at noon on Friday, October 30.

 
The CHP plans to e-mail media still photos and video of the above cadets receiving their badges as well as video of Commissioner Warren Stanley’s remarks and other available images.
 
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Aerial, Vehicle and On-The-Ground Inspections, Patrols and Restoration Work Has Begun for Impacted Areas Where It Is Safe to Do So
 
Restoration Expected to Occur in Stages Beginning Monday Morning Through Tuesday Night
 
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has begun patrolling some lines de-energized by the Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) that started Sunday morning, Oct. 25, which affected approximately 355,000 customers in 34 counties. Due to improved weather conditions, Kern and San Joaquin Counties were removed from the scope of this PSPS.
 
This morning, PG&E meteorologists began issuing the weather all clear for portions of areas impacted by the PSPS. Restorations have begun where possible.
 
When it is safe to do so, crews will patrol over 17,000 miles of transmission and distribution lines to ensure that no damage or hazards exist before those lines can be re-energized and those customers restored. Efforts related to this PSPS event will include nearly 1,800 ground patrol units, 1 airplane and 65 helicopters.
 
PSPS Restoration
 
PG&E has begun restoring power to customers in some areas where it is safe to do so and expects to restore power to the remaining customers impacted by this PSPS event throughout the day on Monday and continue into Tuesday, with a majority of the customers restored by late Tuesday evening. In many areas, high winds and fire-critical weather will continue through Tuesday morning, so power restoration efforts cannot occur in those areas until the weather conditions improve and the fire danger subsides. Restoration may be delayed for some customers if crews are required to repair significant damage to individual lines, which could be caused by wind-blown branches and other debris.
 
The restoration process PG&E follows includes:

1. Patrol – PG&E crews work to look for potential weather-related damage to the lines, poles and towers. This is done by foot, vehicle and air.
2. Repair – Where equipment damage is found, PG&E crews work to isolate the damaged area from the rest of the system so other parts of the system can be restored.
3. Restore – Once the poles, towers and lines are safe to energize, PG&E's Control Center can complete the process and restore power to affected areas.
4. Notify Customers – Customers are notified that power has been restored.

 
For more information on the PSPS event, visit pge.com/pspsupdates.
 
Extreme Winds Recorded Across Service Area
 
Winds in de-energized areas due to PSPS were observed as follows:
 
County
Max recorded sustained winds (mph)
Max recorded wind gusts (mph)

Sonoma           
76
89

Napa
54
82

Contra Costa
55
74

Lake
57
71

Placer
42
71

Alameda
52
66

 
Customer Support
 
As of this morning, PG&E has opened 105 Community Resource Centers (CRCs) in 32 counties to support customers when power is out at their homes. The CRCs provide ADA-accessible restrooms, hand-washing stations, medical-equipment charging, Wi-F, bottled water, grab-and-go bags and non-perishable snacks. PG&E updates its CRC locations regularly, click here for updates.
 
All CRCs will follow important COVID-related health and safety protocols including:

• Everyone in a CRC is required to wear facial coverings and maintain a physical distance of at least six feet from those who are not part of the same household.
• Everyone entering an indoor CRC will receive a temperature check.
• CRC staff are trained in COVID-19 precautions and will regularly sanitize surfaces and use Plexiglass barriers at check-in.
• All CRCs will follow county and state requirements regarding COVID-19, including limits on the number of customers permitted indoors at any time.

 
About PG&E 
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is one of the largest combined natural gas and electric energy companies in the United States. Based in San Francisco, with more than 23,000 employees, the company delivers some of the nation's cleanest energy to 16 million people in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.
 
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SACRAMENTO - Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) released the following statement after Judge Amy Coney Barrett is poised to be the ninth justice to the United States Supreme Court. Earlier this month, Leader Grove joined other legislative leaders from all 50 states in signing a letter in support of Judge Barrett's nomination. Click here to read the letter.

"Congratulations to Judge Amy Coney Barrett on such a momentous occasion. Our nation and its highest court are deserving of such a remarkable jurist whose reputation is well-respected in the legal community. Judge Barrett is committed to upholding the Constitution as written and protecting the rights of Americans," said Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove.

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Senate Republican Leader Shannon Grove represents California's 16th Senate District which encompasses large portions of Kern, Tulare and San Bernardino counties and including the cities of Bakersfield, Barstow, California City, Exeter, Frazier Mountain, Joshua Tree, Mojave, Needles, Ridgecrest, Rosamond, Taft, Tehachapi, Twentynine Palms, Tulare, Visalia, Yucca Valley and portions of the Kern River Valley. Follow her on Facebookand Twitter.
For press inquiries or questions, please contact Jacqui Nguyen, press secretary for the Senate Republican Cau

Potential Sunday/Oct. 25 PSPS Event: Forecasted Highest Winds and Driest Conditions of the Season Mean PG&E May Need to Proactively Turn Off Power for Safety to Approximately 466,000 Customers Across Northern and Central California
 
Portions of 38 Counties and 25 Tribal Communities May Be Impacted by Widespread, Severe Offshore Wind Event Beginning Sunday
 
Customers Who Might Be Affected by the Public Safety Power Shutoff are Receiving the Initial Notifications Today, Two Days Ahead of the Potential Event

Four Extremes in the Weather for this Potential PSPS Event: Extremely High Winds, Extremely Low Humidity, Extreme Dry Fuels And Extreme Drought
 
Current Oct. 21 PSPS Event Update: Essentially All Customers Who Can Receive Electric Service are Now Restored After Current PSPS Event
 
 
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) Emergency Operations Center, Meteorology team and Wildfire Safety Operations Center are working together and tracking a significant, offshore wind event starting Sunday that is forecast to have the driest humidity levels and the strongest winds of the wildfire season thus far.
 
PG&E has notified customers in targeted portions of 38 counties about a potential Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) expected to start as early as Sunday morning (Oct. 25). Extremely dry, windy conditions with high gusts pose an increased risk for damage to the electric system that has the potential to ignite fires in areas with critically dry vegetation.
 
High fire-risk conditions are expected to arrive Sunday morning. High winds are currently expected to subside Tuesday morning (Oct. 27). PG&E will then patrol the de-energized lines to ensure they were not damaged during the wind event. PG&E will safely restore power as quickly as possible, with the goal of restoring most customers within 12 daylight hours, based on current weather conditions.
 
While there is still uncertainty regarding the strength and timing of this weather wind event, the shutoff is forecasted to affect approximately 466,000 customers in targeted portions of 38 counties, including: Alameda, Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Humboldt, Kern, Lake, Lassen, Madera, Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Tehama, Trinity, Tuolumne, Yolo and Yuba. Some customers in 25 tribal communities may also be affected.
 
The highest probability areas for this PSPS include terrain of the northern and western Sacramento Valley, Northern and Central Sierra as well as higher terrain of the Bay Area, including the Santa Cruz Mountains, Central Coast Region and portions of southern Kern.
 
“The safety of our customers and the communities we serve is our most important responsibility. PG&E’s 24/7 Wildfire Safety Operations Center and our team of in-house meteorologists continue to monitor weather conditions for this potential Diablo offshore wind event arriving Sunday morning and lasting through Tuesday morning,” said Michael Lewis, PG&E’s Interim President. “Initial forecasts indicate this could be our largest PSPS event this year so far. Our highest priority is to keep customers and communities safe and execute this event according to our plan and to then quickly restore power to all affected customers when it’s safe to do so.”
 
Customer Notification and Impact
 
The potential PSPS event is still two days away. PG&E in-house meteorologists as well as staff in its Wildfire Safety Operation Center and Emergency Operation Center will continue to monitor conditions closely, and additional customer notifications will be issued as we move closer to the potential event.
 
Customer notifications—via text, email and automated phone call—began late this afternoon, approximately two days prior to the potential shutoff. Customers enrolled in the company’s Medical Baseline program who do not verify that they have received these important safety communications will be individually visited by a PG&E employee with a knock on their door when possible. A primary focus will be given to customers who rely on electricity for critical life-sustaining equipment.
 
It is very possible that customers may be affected by a power shutoff even though they are not experiencing extreme weather conditions in their specific location. This is because the electric system relies on power lines working together to provide electricity across cities, counties and regions.
 
Customers can find the full list of impacted counties, cities and communities at pge.com/pspsupdates. 
 
Potentially Affected Customers
 
Below is a list of customers who could potentially be affected by this PSPS event.

• Alameda County: 39,401 customers, 1,483 Medical Baseline customers
• Alpine County: 575 customers, 6 Medical Baseline customers
• Amador County: 10,448 customers, 805 Medical Baseline customers
• Butte County: 19,185 customers, 1,833 Medical Baseline customers
• Calaveras County: 19,329 customers, 967 Medical Baseline customers
• Colusa County: 565 customers, 32 Medical Baseline customers
• Contra Costa County: 20,148 customers, 957 Medical Baseline customers
• El Dorado County: 41,009 customers, 2,891 Medical Baseline customers
• Fresno County: 4,746 customers, 417 Medical Baseline customers
• Glenn County: 377 customers, 18 Medical Baseline customers
• Humboldt County: 6,712 customers, 232 Medical Baseline customers
• Kern County: 649 customers, 32 Medical Baseline customers
• Lake County: 31,590 customers, 2,613 Medical Baseline customers
• Lassen County: 989 customers, 50 Medical Baseline customers
• Madera County: 16,542 customers, 1,513 Medical Baseline customers
• Marin County: 19,626 customers, 608 Medical Baseline customers
• Mariposa County: 1,203 customers, 45 Medical Baseline customers
• Mendocino County: 10,038 customers, 552 Medical Baseline customers
• Monterey County: 242 customers, 6 Medical Baseline customers
• Napa County: 15,598 customers, 510 Medical Baseline customers
• Nevada County: 40,252 customers, 2,446 Medical Baseline customers
• Placer County: 18,060 customers, 1,117 Medical Baseline customers
• Plumas County: 9,370 customers, 429 Medical Baseline customers
• San Joaquin County: 10 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• San Mateo County: 4,458 customers, 120 Medical Baseline customers
• Santa Clara County: 4,770 customers, 238 Medical Baseline customers
• Santa Cruz County: 14,317 customers, 975 Medical Baseline customers
• Shasta County: 25,169 customers, 1,997 Medical Baseline customers
• Sierra County: 1,101 customers, 24 Medical Baseline customers
• Siskiyou County: 57 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Solano County: 1,606 customers, 100 Medical Baseline customers
• Sonoma County: 38,120 customers, 2,111 Medical Baseline customers
• Stanislaus County: 35 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Tehama County: 9,751 customers, 849 Medical Baseline customers
• Trinity County: 1,406 customers, 76 Medical Baseline customers
• Tuolumne County: 33,271 customers, 2,427 Medical Baseline customers
• Yolo County: 166 customers, 4 Medical Baseline customers
• Yuba County: 5,196 customers, 412 Medical Baseline customers
• Total*: 466,093 customers, 28,895 Medical Baseline customers

*The following Tribal Community counts are included within the County level detail above.

• Big Lagoon Rancheria Tribal Community: 7 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Big Sandy Rancheria Tribal Community: 61 customers, 2 Medical Baseline customers
• Chicken Ranch Rancheria Tribal Community: 0 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Cold Springs Rancheria Of Mono Indians Tribal Community: 0 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Cortina Rancheria Tribal Community: 8 customers, 1 Medical Baseline customer
• Dry Creek Rancheria Tribal Community: 8 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Enterprise Rancheria Of Maidu Indians Tribal Community: 0 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Greenville Rancheria Tribal Community: 34 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Grindstone Rancheria Tribal Community: 49 customers, 3 Medical Baseline customers
• Hoopa Valley Tribe Tribal Community: 1,063 customers, 56 Medical Baseline customers
• Hopland Reservation Tribal Community: 86 customers, 11 Medical Baseline customers
• Jackson Rancheria Tribal Community: 28 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Karuk Tribe Tribal Community: 42 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Middletown Rancheria Tribal Community: 33 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Mooretown Rancheria Tribal Community: 107 customers, 7 Medical Baseline customers
• North Fork Rancheria Tribal Community: 25 customers, 3 Medical Baseline customers
• Picayune Rancheria Tribal Community: 30 customers, 0 Medical Baseline customers
• Pit River Tribe Tribal Community: Includes customers in Montgomery Creek Rancheria and Roaring Creek Rancheria. We do not have data on customer counts or Medical Baseline customers at this time.
• Robinson Rancheria Tribal Community: 96 customers, 4 Medical Baseline customers
• Round Valley Reservation Tribal Community: 646 customers, 34 Medical Baseline customers
• Sherwood Valley Ranch Tribal Community: 82 customers, 6 Medical Baseline customers
• Shingle Springs Rancheria Tribal Community: 54 customers, 3 Medical Baseline customers
• Stewarts Point Rancher Tribal Community: 22 customers, 2 Medical Baseline customers
• Tuolumne Rancheria Tribal Community: 112 customers, 6 Medical Baseline customers
• Upper Lake Rancheria Tribal Community: 28 customers, 2 Medical Baseline customers
• Yurok Tribe Tribal Community: 87 customers, 4 Medical Baseline customers

Why PG&E Calls a PSPS Event
 
Due to forecasted extreme weather conditions, PG&E is considering proactively turning off power for safety. Windy conditions, like those being forecast, increase the potential for damage and hazards to PG&E’s electric infrastructure, which could cause sparks if lines are energized. These conditions also increase the potential for rapid fire spread.
 
“We’re seeing four extremes in the weather for this potential PSPS event: extremely high winds, extremely low humidity, extreme dry fuels due to the hottest average temperatures over the last six months according to records that go back 126 years, and extreme drought across the territory given lack of rainfall,” said PG&E’s Scott Strenfel, head of meteorology and fire science. “While temperatures are expected to drop heading into this event with cold weather expected in some areas, the high winds, low humidity, dry fuels and lack of rainfall continues to result in high fire hazard conditions.”
 
State officials classify more than half of PG&E’s 70,000-square-mile service area in Northern and Central California as having a high fire threat, given dry grasses and the high volume of dead and dying trees.
 
The state’s high-risk areas have tripled in size over the last seven years. No single factor drives a PSPS, as each situation is unique. PG&E carefully reviews a combination of many criteria when determining if power should be turned off for safety. These factors generally include, but are not limited to:
 

• Low humidity levels, generally 20 percent and below
• Forecasted sustained winds generally above 25 mph and wind gusts in excess of approximately 45 mph, depending on location and site-specific conditions such as temperature, terrain and local climate
• A Red Flag Warning declared by the National Weather Service
• Condition of dry fuel on the ground and live vegetation (moisture content)
• On-the-ground, real-time observations from PG&E’s Wildfire Safety Operations Center and observations from PG&E field crews

 
So far this year, PG&E has called 4 PSPS events, each of which produced safety hazards on our equipment. If PG&E had not de-energized power lines, these types of damage could have caused wildfire ignitions.
 
Here’s Where to Go to Learn More
 

• PG&E’s emergency website pge.com/pspsupdates is now available in 13 languages. Currently, the website is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, Russian, Vietnamese, Korean, Farsi, Arabic, Hmong, Khmer, Punjabi and Japanese. Customers will have the opportunity to choose their language of preference for viewing the information when visiting the website. In addition,PG&E’s contact center has translation services available in over 200 languages. Customers who need in-language support over the phone can contact us by calling 1-833-208-4167.
• For additional language support services including how to set language preference, select options for obtaining translated notifications, and receive other translated resources on PSPS, customers can visit pge.com/pspslanguagehelp. This website is also available in 13 languages as listed above.
• Customers are encouraged to update their contact information and indicate their preferred language for notifications by visiting pge.com/mywildfirealerts or by calling 1-800-743-5000. PG&E’s contact center has translation services available in over 200 languages.
• Tenants and non-account holders can sign up to receive PSPS ZIP Code Alerts for any area where you do not have a PG&E account by visiting pge.com/pspszipcodealerts.
• PG&E has launched a new tool at its online Safety Action Center at safetyactioncenter.pge.com to help customers prepare. By using the "Make Your Own Emergency Plan" tool and answering a few short questions, visitors to the website can compile and organize the important information needed for a personalized family emergency plan.

 
Community Resource Centers Reflect COVID-Safety Protocols
 
PG&E will open Community Resource Centers (CRCs) to support our customers.
The sole purpose of a PSPS is to reduce the risk of major wildfires during severe weather. While a PSPS is an important wildfire safety tool, PG&E understands that losing power disrupts lives, especially for customers sheltering-at-home in response to COVID-19. These temporary CRCs will be open to customers when power is out at their homes and will provide ADA-accessible restrooms and hand-washing stations; medical-equipment charging; Wi-Fi; bottled water; and non-perishable snacks.
 
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, all CRCs will follow important health and safety protocols including:

• Facial coverings and maintaining a physical distance of at least six feet from those who are not part of the same household will be required at all CRCs.
• Temperature checks will be administered before entering CRCs that are located indoors.
• CRC staff will be trained in COVID-19 precautions and will regularly sanitize surfaces and use Plexiglass barriers at check-in. All CRCs will follow county and state requirements regarding COVID-19, including limits on the number of customers permitted indoors at any time.

 
Besides these health protocols, customers visiting a CRC in 2020 will experience further changes, including a different look and feel. In addition to using existing indoor facilities, PG&E is planning to open CRCs at outdoor, open-air sites in some locations and use large commercial vans as CRCs in other locations. CRC format will depend on a number of factors, including input from local and tribal leaders. Supplies also will be handed out in grab-and-go bags at outdoor CRCs so most customers can be on their way quickly.
 
How Customers Can Prepare for a PSPS
 
As part of PSPS preparedness efforts, PG&E suggests customers:

• Plan for medical needs like medications that require refrigeration or devices that need power.
• Identify backup charging methods for phones and keep hard copies of emergency numbers.
• Build or restock your emergency kit with flashlights, fresh batteries, first aid supplies and cash.
• Keep in mind family members who are elderly, younger children and pets.

 
Prevention, Preparedness and Support
 
It is important that PG&E has your current contact information so you can be notified and better prepared if a wildfire or PSPS event may impact your home or business. To set up your alerts, visit pge.com/alerts.

With the increased wildfire threat our state faces, PG&E is enhancing and expanding our efforts to reduce wildfire risks and keep our customers and communities safe. Our Community Wildfire Safety Program includes short, medium and long-term plans to make our system safer. For tips on how to prepare for emergencies and outages, visit our Safety Action Center at safetyactioncenter.pge.com.
 
Essentially All Customers Restored from Oct. 21 PSPS Event
 
PG&E has restored power to essentially all customers who can receive service that were impacted by the PSPS event that started Wednesday evening (Oct. 21). PG&E called the PSPS event due to a high-wind event combined with low humidity and severely dry vegetation, which together created high risk of catastrophic wildfires.
 
The Oct. 21 PSPS event affected about 31,000 customers in targeted portions of 7 counties with the majority living in Shasta, Butte and Tehama counties.
 
The top three recorded wind gust speeds from this PSPS event were 56, 55, and 52 mph in Shasta, Contra Costa and Butte counties respectively, with humidity and fuel moisture levels remaining low.
 
About 2,000 personnel were working on the ground or in 36 helicopters inspecting lines for damage or hazards.
 
About PG&E
 
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is one of the largest combined natural gas and electric energy companies in the United States. Based in San Francisco, with more than 20,000 employees, the company delivers some of the nation's cleanest energy to 16 million people in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.
 
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January 1, 2021
In 2019, the State Board of Fire Service (SBFS) and Statewide Training and Education Advisory Committee (STEAC) approved the State Fire Training (SFT) Fee Report which outlined the need to adjust the fees for several SFT services. On September 3, 2020, these new fees were adopted into regulation and were filed with the Secretary of State, which will become effective on January 1, 2021. 

During these uncertain times, SFT acknowledges that the implementation of the new fees may seem inopportune. However, in 2016, several years before the pandemic crisis, SFT identified that program survivability warranted a review of the 2008 fees paid by stakeholders and began working on this fee adjustment project. SFT is a self-funded program; paid for by participant fees. SFT collects fees for services provided including course diplomas, applying for certification, taking certification exams, and Accredited Local Academy (ALA) and Accredited Regional Training Program (ARTP) accreditations, etc. SFT’s last fee adjustment was more than 11 years ago and in the years since 2008, SFT’s operating costs have increased within the day-to-day operations of the program; which include the increase in staffing, curriculum development, and the implementation and maintenance of the SFT User Portal.

All certification applications and courses which occur on or after January 1, 2021, will follow the fee schedule outlined below. The new fees can be found in the link below. 

Download a copy of the new Fee Schedule

Nevada City, Calif. –  The USDA Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region has extended statewide fire restrictions in California through October 30, 2020. These extended fire restrictions prohibit the following activities across all National Forests in California:
No Smoking
No building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire.

• The use of a portable lantern or stove using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel within a Developed Recreation Site (such as an official campground) is allowed.
• Generators are allowed for use within staging areas, developed recreation sites, and within open campgrounds.

In a separate Forest Closure Order, the Tahoe National Forest continues to prohibit dispersed camping and target shooting. Popular activities such as hunting, hiking, boating, and other types of general recreation are allowed. The dispersed camping and target shooting prohibitions continue through October 31, 2020 and include:
No camping outside of developed campgrounds. A list of open, developed campgrounds is provided below. There are two exceptions to this prohibition-

• Dispersed camping within the Granite Chief Wilderness is allowed. Dispersed camping within 500 feet of the Pacific Crest Trail is allowed.

No target shooting. Discharging a firearm, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, and federal law and regulations, is prohibited.
 
Open Campgrounds:
Foresthill Divide Road

• Giant Gap

• Shirttail

​Gold Lake Road

• Packsaddle

• Salmon Creek

• Sardine

Mosquito Ridge Road

• French Meadows (Water systems limited; campers are asked to conserve water)
• Ahart

Interstate 80

• Indian Springs

• North Fork (Reopens 9/25)

Highway 49

• Fiddle Creek

• Indian Valley

• Wild plum

• Union Flat

• Rocky Rest

• Cal Ida

• Carlton Flat

 

Highway 20

• White Cloud (some sites closed due to hazard trees)

• Skillman

Highway 89, North 

• East Meadow (operated by NID)

• Upper Little Truckee

 

• Lower Little Truckee

 

• Pass Creek (operated by NID)

• Pass Creek Overflow

• Bear Valley

• Little Laiser

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For more information about the Tahoe National Forest, go to www.fs.usda.gov/tahoe. Join the conversation by following us on Twitter at twitter.com/Tahoe_NF and Facebook atwww.facebook.com/TahoeNF.
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USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender       
 

SACRAMENTO – California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, alongside California Sheriffs’ Association President Dave Robinson, California Police Chiefs Association President Eric Nuñez, Sacramento Chief of Police Daniel Hahn, and San Francisco Chief of Police William Scott, today encouraged Californians to take part in the 19th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday, October 24, 2020. The effort, led by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, aims to provide a safe and responsible way to dispose of prescription substances, such as opioids, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of prescription drug medications. This year, Prescription Drug Take Back Day has become particularly important as drug overdose deaths have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program reports that national suspected overdoses rose 18 percent in March 2020, 29 percent in April, and 42 percent in May compared to those same months in 2019.
“COVID-19 may be dominating the headlines in 2020, but we must remember that the pandemic is running parallel to the opioid public health crisis in our state and country,” said Attorney General Becerra. “Expired or unused medications have become an even greater problem than in previous years, as individuals and families continue to spend more time at home, forgo care, and struggle with the stress of the pandemic and economic uncertainty. Prescription Drug Take Back Day gives Californians the opportunity to safely dispose of these medications to protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangers of substance abuse.”
On Saturday, October 24, 2020, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., California will have sites around the state to collect unwanted, unused or expired prescription drugs. This service is free and anonymous for all Californians. For more information and to find the closest collection site to you, please visit: Takebackday.dea.gov
Last year, over 56,000 pounds of prescription drugs were dropped off at 336 collection sites in California alone. Nationally, 6,349 tons of pharmaceuticals have been collected over the last 18 Prescription Drug Take Back Days.
Today’s announcement is part of an ongoing effort by Attorney General Becerra to protect Californian communities and fight the opioid crisis. This year, the Attorney General announced a $1.6 billion global settlement framework between state attorneys general, local subdivisions, and opioid manufacturer Mallinckrodt over the company’s participation in the opioid crisis. In September 2017, the Attorney General expanded his investigation of pharmaceutical manufacturers and the three largest distributors of opioids to determine if the companies engaged in unlawful practices in the marketing, sale, and distribution of opioids. That investigation is ongoing. The California Department of Justice also maintains California’s prescription drug monitoring program, CURES 2.0, which assists in efforts to curb prescription drug abuse.

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You may view the full account of this posting, including possible attachments, in the News & Alerts section of our website at: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/drug-overdoses-rise-amid-covid-19-pandemic-attorney-general-becerra-encourages

Shasta & Plumas Counties


REDDING – Beginning November 1, 2020, the following Safety Roadside Rest Areas will be closed for the winter season. The anticipated reopening date for these rest areas is May 1, 2021:

·      Hillcrest Safety Roadside Rest Area (State Route 299, 4 miles east of Montgomery Creek, Shasta County)
·      Massack Safety Roadside Rest Area (State Route 70, 6.5 miles east of Quincy, Plumas County)
·      Lester T. Davis Safety Roadside Rest Area (State Route 70, 3 miles east of Portola, Plumas County)
·      Shingletown Safety Roadside Rest Area (State Route 44, 3 miles east of Shingletown, Shasta County)
·      Lake Almanor Safety Roadside Rest Area (State Route 36, 4.3 miles east of Chester, Plumas County)

These five facilities are closed seasonally as District 2 Maintenance crews focus their time and efforts on the roadways over the winter months. Hazardous conditions from ice and snow are present in these areas during the winter season, which also can lend to plumbing issues at these facilities.

Please note that the Massack and L.T. Davis Safety Roadside Rest Areas are currently closed from activity from the North Complex and from a sewage blockage respectively. These rest areas will remain closed through the winter season.

For a list of Safety Roadside Rest Areas availability throughout the state, please visit QuickMap. If you have questions, please contact District 2 Public Information by email or by phone at 530-225-3426.
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SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Compared to any other age group, the combination of inexperience and distracted driving habits put teenage drivers at the greatest risk of danger.  The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has been awarded a grant to help young drivers learn how to eliminate high-risk actions and decrease their chances of being in a crash.
 
Designed for newly licensed teen drivers and their parents or guardians, the Start Smart program is currently being conducted online for 2020-2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.  The two-hour course has been developed specifically to reduce vehicle crashes that cause serious injuries and fatalities.  The free program incorporates innovative techniques to capture the attention of teens and parents, while addressing common driving dangers.
 
“The Start Smart program is an effective tool for teens and their parents to combat young drivers’ risky driving behaviors,” CHP Commissioner Warren Stanley said.  “The Department is committed to making a difference in the future of California’s youth through continued traffic safety educational efforts.”
 
The Start Smart curriculum is based on collision statistics, teen driver and passenger behaviors, Graduated Driver License (GDL) laws, cultural changes, and the need for stronger parental involvement.  Parents and guardians are reminded of their responsibility to teach their new driver and model good driving behaviors. 
 
Parents and teenagers can register for a Start Smart class by contacting their local CHP office.   More information about Start Smart and the GDL program can be found on the free CHP Start Smart mobile app, which is available on Android and iOS devices.  The app also includes access to the California Driver Handbook and a trip logger to keep track of the user’s driving time to help them prepare to obtain their license.
 
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 
 
The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.
 
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Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), and to provide for public safety and protect natural resources, the following acts are prohibited on National Forest System lands within the Pacific Southwest Region. This Order is effective from October 23, 2020, through October 30, 2020.

1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(a).
   
2. Smoking. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(c).
   

Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:

1. Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order.
   
2. Any Federal, State, or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty.
   
3. Persons using a portable lantern or stove using gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel within a Developed Recreation Site.
   

These prohibitions are in addition to the general prohibitions contained in 36 C.F.R. Part 261, Subpart A.
A violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than 6 months, or both. 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 18 U.S.C. §§ 3559, 3571, and 3581.
Done at Vallejo, California, this 22nd day of October, 2020.
RANDY MOORE Regional Forester
Pacific Southwest Region 

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