Webinar option: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5156427999
Phone only: (669) 900-9128
Meeting ID: 515 642 7999
The workshop will be recorded for those who cannot attend.
A public workshop will be held on Sunday, Oct. 17 at Sierra Christian Church in Beckwourth from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. In person or via the zoom link below. The Public Review Draft, an overview of each chapter, and instructions on how to comment can be found here.
Webinar option: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5156427999 Phone only: (669) 900-9128 Meeting ID: 515 642 7999 The workshop will be recorded for those who cannot attend.
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PG&E Sending Two-Day Notices to Alert Customers in Small, Targeted Portions of 19 Counties Who Might Be Affected by Potential Public Safety Power Shutoff
PG&E Meteorologists Continue to Monitor Dynamic Weather Conditions to Determine Scope of Potential Second Event this Week After Monday’s PSPS All Customers Affected by Monday PSPS Expected to be Restored by Late Tonight SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) meteorologists continue to monitor a potential weather system that could bring dry offshore winds to parts of Northern and Central California beginning in the early morning hours Thursday—the second such wind event this week. Given this wind event, combined with extreme to exceptional drought and extremely dry vegetation, PG&E is sending two-day advance notifications to approximately 29,000 customers in small, targeted portions of 19 counties and four tribes where PG&E may need to implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) to reduce the risk of wildfire from energized power lines. Customer notifications—via text, email and automated phone call—began today, two days prior to the potential shutoff. Customers can also look up their address online to find out if their location is being monitored for the potential safety shutoff at www.pge.com/pspsupdates. Also today, PG&E continued patrolling lines de-energized during Monday’s PSPS event and restoring power. All of the approximately 24,000 customers by this first event are expected to be restored by late tonight. During a PSPS, PG&E offers support to customers by opening Community Resource Centers with snacks, water, and other essential items; partnering with community-based organizations to assist customers with medical and independent living needs; and continuing to update our customers on power restoration status. Details about customer support programs are available at www.pge.com/pspsupdates. Potentially Affected Counties Potentially affected customers by county are as follows:
Approximately 70 total customers are potentially in scope in the tribal areas of Grindstone Rancheria, Mooretown Rancheria, Pitt River Tribes, and Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. If customers enrolled in the company’s Medical Baseline program do not verify that they have received these important safety communications, PG&E employees will attempt to make individual, in person visits when possible with a primary focus on customers who rely on electricity for critical life-sustaining equipment. With the potential PSPS event two days away, conditions may change. PG&E’s in-house meteorologists, as well as its Wildfire Safety Operations Center and Emergency Operations Center, continue to closely monitor conditions. PG&E will share additional customer notifications as conditions evolve. Public Safety Power Shutoffs: What PG&E Customers Should Know Why PG&E Calls a PSPS Event PG&E initiates PSPS when the weather forecast calls for such severe weather that people’s safety, lives, homes, and businesses may be in danger of wildfires. As each weather situation is unique, PG&E carefully reviews a combination of factors when deciding if power must be turned off. These factors include:
This year, PG&E’s decision-making process is evolving to also account for the presence of trees tall enough to strike power lines when determining if a PSPS event is necessary. Every wildfire season is different, and the ongoing drought and the conditions will determine the number of times PG&E will need to shut off power, without compromising safety. This set of criteria is a first step that may lead to further analysis from PG&E’s meteorology team to determine if a PSPS event is necessary. Where to Learn More
PG&E’s Commitment to Wildfire Safety PG&E’s multi-faceted Community Wildfire Safety Program includes both immediate and long-term action plans to further reduce wildfire risk and keep its customers and communities safe. Since 2018, PG&E’s wildfire safety work has resulted in:
Ongoing PG&E Wildfire Mitigation and Resiliency Efforts PG&E’s ongoing safety work to enhance grid resilience and address the growing threat of severe weather and wildfires continues on a risk-based and data-driven basis, as outlined in its 2021 Wildfire Mitigation Plan. About PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news. Paving and Utility Work Force Temporary Closures This Week
PLACER/NEVADA COUNTIES – Caltrans is alerting motorists to the temporary closure of Interstate 80 (I-80) rest areas in the Sierra this week for paving and utility work. This Tuesday, October 12, the east- and westbound Donner Summit Rest Areas will be closed between 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. due to utility work. PG&E will be cutting power to the rest areas for electrical work, requiring temporary daytime closures. Farther west, alternating Gold Run Rest Areas will be closed for paving work on I-80. Maintenance crews are repaving the #2 (right lane) of east- and westbound I-80, temporarily restricting off-ramp access to both rest areas. The Gold Run Rest Areas will be closed on alternating days, with one remaining open for public use during paving work. · The eastbound I-80 Gold Run Rest Area will be closed Tuesday, October 12 and Wednesday, October 13 from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. · The westbound I-80 Gold Run Rest Area will be closed Thursday, October 14 and Friday, October 15 from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Motorists are advised to plan ahead while traveling on I-80 in the Sierra during these temporary rest area closures. Weather or other unexpected events may delay or prolong the work. Caltrans advises motorists to “Be Work Zone Alert.” The department will issue construction updates on Twitter@CaltransDist3 and on Facebook at CaltransDistrict3. For real-time traffic, click on Caltrans’ QuickMap quickmap.dot.ca.gov/ or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play.
People v Jacquelin Dee Parkhurst (20CR0120) On August 27, 2021, Jacquelin Dee Parkhurst, age 47, of Reno, Nevada, was convicted of violating Vehicle Code section 23152(b), driving under the influence. She was placed on 3 years probation, ordered to spend 2 days in jail, take and completed a DUI class, and pay a fine of $1,920. People v. Jennifer Lynn Hood (CR03609X) On August 27, 2021, Jennifer Lynn Hood, age 58 of Sparks, Nevada, was convicted of violating Penal Code section 424, embezzlement. She was placed on 2 years probation and was ordered to pay restitution in an amount to be determined. People v. Donald Lewis Quiring (21CR0034) On September 7, 2021, Donald Lewis Quiring, of Loyalton, was convicted of violating Penal Code section 415(2), an infraction. He was ordered to pay a fine of $465.00. People v. Todd Eric Edwards (21CR0006) On September 7, 2021, Todd Eric Edwards, age 51, of Sierraville, was convicted of violating Penal Code section 415(3), a misdemeanor. He was placed on one year probation, ordered to take an anger management class and pay a fine of $660.00. People v. Clinton Steven Maffi-Bosco (20CR0060) On September 10, 2021, Clinton Steven Maffi-Bosco, age 33, of Reno, was convicted of violating Vehicle Code section 23103, a misdemeanor. He was ordered to spend one day in jail and to pay a fine of $270.00. People v. William Jon Parker (20CR0075) On September 10, 2021, William Jon Parker, age 52, of North San Juan, was convicted of violating Penal Code section 602(m), trespassing, a misdemeanor. He was ordered to spend 25 days in jail, placed on 1 year probation and ordered to pay a $235.00 fine. People v. Arin Diane Wharff (20CR0002) and (20CR0022) On September 21, 2021, Arin Diane Wharff, age 30, of Good Years Bar, was convicted of violating Penal Code section 470, forgery and Penal Code 134, preparing false evidence. She was placed on 2 years probation and ordered to pay $870.00 in fines. People v. Vincent Wayne Beatty (21CR0037) On September 21, 2021, Vincent Wayne Beatty, age 28, of Foresthill, was convicted of violating Vehicle Code section 23152(b), driving under the influence, with a prior. He was sentenced to 10 days jail, ordered to take a DUI class, placed on 48 months probation and required to pay a fine of $1,885.00. Ragweed
Outdoor Mold
Many times, people unknowingly bring these allergens into their homes, making the effects worse for everyone else in the family. The indoor air quality experts with AdvantaClean in your market can discuss these fall allergens and share tips on how your viewers can keep their homes safe this year. We can set up an interview for you with an air quality expert at a local home or via Zoom. Top 5 Tips to Keep Your Home Allergy-Free This Fall The First Heat - Dust mites, mold and other allergens in a home’s vents can be activated when people turn on the heat the first time in the fall. Before running the heat, get your air ducts cleaned and change the filter. The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) suggests cleaning air ducts every 3-5 years. It is recommended to use filters with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating between 8 and 10 and a thickness of one inch. Keep the Outdoors Out – When coming inside, it is important to remove shoes and wipe down pets to avoid tracking in allergens. Wear a mask when raking leaves to avoid breathing mold spores and change clothes after doing yard work to prevent the spread of pollen around the house. Limit your pets’ time outside and wipe them down to remove pollen when they come indoors. Purify the Air – Most air purifiers have HEPA filters that remove up to 99 percent of airborne allergens, including pollen, dust and pet dander and mold spores. A mid-priced model can cost $50-125, for a room-sized system. Place it in your bedroom, where you spend most of your time and can result in better sleep as well. Close the windows – Although it may be tempting to open the window to let in some cool, “fresh” fall air, you are also inviting allergens into your home. Pollen counts are typically the highest in the mid-morning through late afternoon. Halt the Humidity – Growth of mold indoors comes in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms. Use a dehumidifier in to keep these areas dry and the humidity levels between 30 and 50 percent. Mold grows best at humidity levels of 60 percent or higher. This is a timely, informative, and highly visual story which will resonate with your audience. I will be happy to set up an interview with an indoor air quality expert in your area. Just let me know what date and time works best for you. Kevin Behan SACRAMENTO, Calif. –To help save lives and reduce the risk associated with riding a motorcycle, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will implement a new, federally funded grant campaign promoting motorcycle safety in California from October 1, 2021, through September 30, 2022. The goal of the Get Educated and Ride Safe (GEARS) IV grant is to decrease the number of motorcycle-involved crashes and victims through education and enforcement campaigns. In federal fiscal year (FFY) 2018-19, there was an approximate 10 percent decrease in motorcycle-involved crashes in California, followed by a 20 percent drop the following year based on provisional data. Even with the decline, there were 6,849 motorcycle-involved crashes resulting in 306 deaths and 6,118 injuries within CHP jurisdiction in FFY 2019-20. “While the decrease in the number of crashes is encouraging, there is still work to be done,” said CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray. “The GEARS IV grant will support the Department’s efforts to increase motorcycle safety through education and enforcement.” During this grant period, the CHP will participate in traffic safety education campaigns, such as “May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.” These campaigns will promote the use of U.S. Department of Transportation-compliant helmets for all riders and raise motorists’ awareness of sharing the road with motorcyclists. The CHP will also increase enforcement efforts in areas with a high number of motorcycle-involved crashes, which were a result of speed, improper turning, and driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. 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. REDDING – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans District 2), in conjunction with Robert J. Frank Construction, Inc., is preparing to begin work on a highway lighting project on State Route 70 in Plumas County. The $230k project will install highway lighting at the Beckwourth chain on/off area near Beckwourth Calpine Road. Construction activities are anticipated to begin on October 12th. Motorists may encounter one-way traffic control with up to 15-minute delays at times, Mondays-Fridays during daytime hours. Motorists are urged to slow down and drive carefully in and around construction areas, follow speed limit reductions in place, and allot extra time for delays. The project is currently anticipated to be completed by the early November. Construction projects are subject to changes without prior notice. Caltrans and its contractors do our best to keep the public informed. To stay up to date on highway projects, please follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Project information can also be found on the District 2 webpage. The public can also call (530) 225-3426 during working hours or send an email to D2PIO@dot.ca.gov. Updated highway conditions for California can be found on QuickMap and on One-Stop-Shop for the Western U.S. California is struggling to recover from new unemployment claims, with last week’s claims higher than at the start of 2020, according to WalletHub’s updated rankings for the States Whose Unemployment Claims Are Recovering the Quickest, along with accompanying videos and audio files.
Key Stats:
To view the full report and your state’s rank, please visit: https://wallethub.com/edu/states-unemployment-claims/72730 By Marc Ang
When Cynthia Rivera’s 17 year old son, a junior at El Dorado High School in Placentia got a call to the principal’s office during his football practice, suspension was the last thing he expected. The urgency in the call sounded like there could have been a car accident, and maybe one of his friends was hurt. Different scenarios raced through his mind, but instead he was greeted by a panicked headmaster requiring that he not participate in football for 14 days because he had been exposed to COVID in one of his classes. Cynthia and her son were shocked. He had just tested negative earlier that week and was displaying no symptoms of COVID. Taking these two facts to the principal was not enough. He was operating under strict rules from above and it did not matter that Cynthia’s son was healthy and did not actually have COVID. It was enough that he was in a classroom where a kid contracted COVID and he was less than 6 feet away from his classmate. That is the rule, and Cynthia would have accepted that rule. However, the enforcement of this COVID rule is arbitrary. In the “offending” classroom, Cynthia and her son measured the distance between her son’s seat and the seat of the classmate with COVID and found it was just under 6 feet. Upon measurements in other days and classrooms, it was virtually impossible to keep that 6 feet distancing and there were repeated violations ranging from 1 to 5 feet. Why should her son be penalized for the negligence of the school staff from proper spacing? Cynthia took this fact to the superintendent. After repeated requests, this was the response Cynthia received: “Dear Mr. and Mrs. Rivera, Thank you for the follow up communication. I’m glad to hear your son tested negative and hope his second test has the same result. I did connect with the school team regarding your case. After review, it was determined that your son was a close contact to a Covid-19 positive student and the Health Services staff correctly followed the guidance from the Orange County Health Care Agency. As a result, the quarantine from extra curricular activities stands for the 14 day period. While I realize this is not the response you were hoping for, please understand that we make every effort to apply the guidance consistently regardless of whether a student is 2, 4, or 5 ½ feet from an infected individual. Thank you for understanding our position as we work to keep our schools safe. Thank you again. - Assistant Superintendent, Executive Services, Placenta-Yorba Linda Unified” In the name of “safety”, there is a real life impact. Since he was 5 years old, Cynthia, her son and the entire family have dedicated their lives and time to her son’s football practices and games. Before this suspension due to COVID exposure, the family had never missed a practice or game. Her son is a rising star, a starter and wants to play in college, and maybe take this professionally if the opportunity arises. But odds are decreasing, as he happened to be coming of age in high school in 2020 and 2021, when kids were locked up at home for over a year. The Rivera family had to seek therapy for their son, who was getting depressed. Thinking that things were back to normal, he returned to school and football practice, but in the middle of the season, is now being yanked out. Cynthia feels for her teary-eyed son, who now has to be suspended for 14 days. She says, “The consequences are very severe for not being sure if there is even a threat. Missing two games for a junior is huge”. Cynthia and her family represent a normal family that is being adversely affected by a societal paranoia that is out of control. But she is not the only one. Another local California mother from another district had to deal with her son being sent homie for a stomach ache from constipation. This stomach ache is actually a COVID symptom and while the child and parents may be insistent he does not have COVID, the availability of tests is limited and doctors will not test kids for COVID who have just a stomach ache. Simply exhibiting a symptom is now cause to send a child home for 2 weeks. Similarly, other children have allergies and this paranoia over germs (George Carlin is rolling over in his grave), fueled by myopic government mandates, is causing people to overreact to seasonal allergies. One family in North Carolina complained that their son had pollen allergies and was also sent home. It is now a trend for overly paranoid school officials to bar students from going to school or attending extracurricular activities because “better safe than sorry” even if it completely disrupts a child’s learning and trajectory or building a skill or craft, like Cynthia’s son’s football. Even worse, this standard is arbitrary based on what some bureaucrat feels is safe. Have we stopped to assess the balance of resuming our activities and employing overly harsh restrictions that are based on irrational paranoia, and not by data, actual results and science? Maybe some training is due for superintendents and teachers, to remember their job is to teach and grow knowledge and young minds, and balance that with COVID safety? Common sense is not so common anymore and it’s once again, the kids that end up suffering as they are treated like lepers for simply being in the same room as someone who had COVID. No wonder, mental health is on the decline for our teenagers and young adults. This is just unacceptable and the idiocy must stop if we really care about our children, who are the most resilient from COVID. Marc Ang (marc@aib2b.org) is the President of the Chinese American Citizens Alliance in Orange County, co-chair of “Recall Gascon Now”, was the Director of Outreach for the “No on 16” campaign, a community organizer in Southern California and the founder of Asian Industry B2B who specializes in race relations and the minority conservative experience. His book “Minority Retort” will be released in late 2021 Senator Borgeas Spearheads Property Tax Relief for Wildfire Victims, SB 303 Signed by Governor10/6/2021 SACRAMENTO – Senate Bill 303, authored by Senator Andreas Borgeas (R-Fresno), was signed into law today by Governor Gavin Newsom. Senate Bill 303 was approved unanimously by both houses of the California Legislature in September. Senator Borgeas’ efforts mark a massive legislative win for qualifying California homeowners seeking to rebuild after a wildfire.
Senate Bill 303 extends the time period by two years for a taxpayer to transfer their base year value to a comparable property in the same county if their home was destroyed by a disaster. Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) co-authored the bill. “California has witnessed – and is currently experiencing - an unprecedented number of wildfires in recent years that have decimated countless homes throughout the state,” said Senator Borgeas. “Once a home is destroyed, residents are faced with a maelstrom of barriers and costs as they race against the clock to rebuild or repair their home. The state of California should be doing everything in its power to help wildfire victims get back on their feet.” “In Calaveras County, the Butte Fire damaged or destroyed hundreds of homes in September 2015,” said Leslie K. Davis, Calaveras County Assessor. “Almost immediately, displaced residents were renting or buying available property and what little supply that had existed was completely exhausted by the demand. With the five-year deadline to replace their home passed, those who have not been able to complete construction were also reeling from the effects of the COVID Shut Down. These property owners have been doubly hit by disaster; first a wildfire, then a pandemic. This proposal will help many regain a sense of normalcy." Read the full text of the legislation here. ### Senator Borgeas represents the 8th Senate District, which encompasses all or portions of Amador, Calaveras, Fresno, Inyo, Madera, Mariposa, Mono, Sacramento, Stanislaus, Tulare, and Tuolumne Counties. For additional information about Senator Borgeas, please visit his website at www.senate.ca.gov/borgeas or sign up for his monthly newsletter here. FOLLOW SENATOR BORGEAS Eastern Plumas Health Care (EPHC) will be opening a new COVID clinic offering both COVID tests and COVID vaccinations to the community in Loyalton starting Friday, October 8 and then every other Friday thereafter from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Patients will have the option of calling ahead at 993-6100 or arriving the day of by 12:30 p.m. to be vaccinated or tested with a nasal swab. Caltrans and California Statewide Traffic Safety Plan Selected for National Roadway Safety Award10/6/2021 SACRAMENTO ― The Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation today announced they have selected the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for their 2021 National Roadway Safety Award in recognition of California’s 2020-2024 Strategic Highway Safety Plan. “This recognition is a testament to everything California is doing to make our transportation system safer for everyone on the road,” said David S. Kim, Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency. “From Caltrans and our other state departments to federal, tribal, local and community-based safety partners, our collective focus is on tackling this issue with urgency and taking a bolder, more innovative approach to implementing strategies that will save lives.” “Caltrans is irrevocably committed to achieving zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2050, and seeing deep, quantifiable and consistent reductions in those numbers in the years going forward,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. “We welcome the Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation’s award because it attests to our commitment in working to combat the tragic, decade-long rise in fatal and injurious incidents on California’s roadways.” The 2020-24 Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) is anchored by the underlying goal of making zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries a reality. In summer 2020, state transportation leaders from a wide range of organizations recognized a bolder and more focused approach was necessary to combat troubling trends in traffic safety. This important change ― referred to as “The Pivot” ― led to focusing on high-priority areas, expanding SHSP membership, and adopting four guiding principles in the updated statewide data-driven traffic safety plan: · Integrating equity into all aspects of the plan. · Implementing a Safe System Approach. · Doubling down on what works. · Accelerating advanced technology. Based on these principles, the 2020-2024 plan places renewed emphasis on addressing historical, systemic and present-day biases and improving safety for all groups, particularly in vulnerable and underserved communities. “Future travelers in California, whose lives and limbs will be spared, will owe an unknowing debt of gratitude to the state's traffic safety planners,” said Roadway Safety Foundation Executive Director Gregory M. Cohen. “We urge DOTs across the nation to look at Caltrans, the entire California team, and other awardees’ innovations and replicate them wherever possible.” “Congratulations to today’s seven honorees for the remarkable work they’ve done to protect the traveling public,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “They are proof that we have no shortage of willpower or good ideas for improving roadway safety.” The biennial National Roadway Safety Awards rely on an expert panel of judges from a variety of disciplines to evaluate projects that involve infrastructure, operational, or program-related innovations, and to select winners using three criteria ― effectiveness, innovation, and the efficient use of resources. Visit the National Roadway Safety Awards page for more information on the program. ### Caltrans and California Statewide Traffic Safety Plan Selected for National Roadway Safety Award SACRAMENTO ― The Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation today announced they have selected the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for their 2021 National Roadway Safety Award in recognition of California’s 2020-2024 Strategic Highway Safety Plan. “This recognition is a testament to everything California is doing to make our transportation system safer for everyone on the road,” said David S. Kim, Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency. “From Caltrans and our other state departments to federal, tribal, local and community-based safety partners, our collective focus is on tackling this issue with urgency and taking a bolder, more innovative approach to implementing strategies that will save lives.” “Caltrans is irrevocably committed to achieving zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2050, and seeing deep, quantifiable and consistent reductions in those numbers in the years going forward,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. “We welcome the Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation’s award because it attests to our commitment in working to combat the tragic, decade-long rise in fatal and injurious incidents on California’s roadways.” The 2020-24 Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) is anchored by the underlying goal of making zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries a reality. In summer 2020, state transportation leaders from a wide range of organizations recognized a bolder and more focused approach was necessary to combat troubling trends in traffic safety. This important change ― referred to as “The Pivot” ― led to focusing on high-priority areas, expanding SHSP membership, and adopting four guiding principles in the updated statewide data-driven traffic safety plan: · Integrating equity into all aspects of the plan. · Implementing a Safe System Approach. · Doubling down on what works. · Accelerating advanced technology. Based on these principles, the 2020-2024 plan places renewed emphasis on addressing historical, systemic and present-day biases and improving safety for all groups, particularly in vulnerable and underserved communities. “Future travelers in California, whose lives and limbs will be spared, will owe an unknowing debt of gratitude to the state's traffic safety planners,” said Roadway Safety Foundation Executive Director Gregory M. Cohen. “We urge DOTs across the nation to look at Caltrans, the entire California team, and other awardees’ innovations and replicate them wherever possible.” “Congratulations to today’s seven honorees for the remarkable work they’ve done to protect the traveling public,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “They are proof that we have no shortage of willpower or good ideas for improving roadway safety.” The biennial National Roadway Safety Awards rely on an expert panel of judges from a variety of disciplines to evaluate projects that involve infrastructure, operational, or program-related innovations, and to select winners using three criteria ― effectiveness, innovation, and the efficient use of resources. Visit the National Roadway Safety Awards page for more information on the program. Caltrans and California Statewide Traffic Safety Plan Selected for National Roadway Safety Award SACRAMENTO ― The Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation today announced they have selected the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for their 2021 National Roadway Safety Award in recognition of California’s 2020-2024 Strategic Highway Safety Plan. “This recognition is a testament to everything California is doing to make our transportation system safer for everyone on the road,” said David S. Kim, Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency. “From Caltrans and our other state departments to federal, tribal, local and community-based safety partners, our collective focus is on tackling this issue with urgency and taking a bolder, more innovative approach to implementing strategies that will save lives.” “Caltrans is irrevocably committed to achieving zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2050, and seeing deep, quantifiable and consistent reductions in those numbers in the years going forward,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. “We welcome the Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation’s award because it attests to our commitment in working to combat the tragic, decade-long rise in fatal and injurious incidents on California’s roadways.” The 2020-24 Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) is anchored by the underlying goal of making zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries a reality. In summer 2020, state transportation leaders from a wide range of organizations recognized a bolder and more focused approach was necessary to combat troubling trends in traffic safety. This important change ― referred to as “The Pivot” ― led to focusing on high-priority areas, expanding SHSP membership, and adopting four guiding principles in the updated statewide data-driven traffic safety plan: · Integrating equity into all aspects of the plan. · Implementing a Safe System Approach. · Doubling down on what works. · Accelerating advanced technology. Based on these principles, the 2020-2024 plan places renewed emphasis on addressing historical, systemic and present-day biases and improving safety for all groups, particularly in vulnerable and underserved communities. “Future travelers in California, whose lives and limbs will be spared, will owe an unknowing debt of gratitude to the state's traffic safety planners,” said Roadway Safety Foundation Executive Director Gregory M. Cohen. “We urge DOTs across the nation to look at Caltrans, the entire California team, and other awardees’ innovations and replicate them wherever possible.” “Congratulations to today’s seven honorees for the remarkable work they’ve done to protect the traveling public,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “They are proof that we have no shortage of willpower or good ideas for improving roadway safety.” The biennial National Roadway Safety Awards rely on an expert panel of judges from a variety of disciplines to evaluate projects that involve infrastructure, operational, or program-related innovations, and to select winners using three criteria ― effectiveness, innovation, and the efficient use of resources. Visit the National Roadway Safety Awards page for more information on the program. Caltrans and California Statewide Traffic Safety Plan Selected for National Roadway Safety Award SACRAMENTO ― The Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation today announced they have selected the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) for their 2021 National Roadway Safety Award in recognition of California’s 2020-2024 Strategic Highway Safety Plan. “This recognition is a testament to everything California is doing to make our transportation system safer for everyone on the road,” said David S. Kim, Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency. “From Caltrans and our other state departments to federal, tribal, local and community-based safety partners, our collective focus is on tackling this issue with urgency and taking a bolder, more innovative approach to implementing strategies that will save lives.” “Caltrans is irrevocably committed to achieving zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2050, and seeing deep, quantifiable and consistent reductions in those numbers in the years going forward,” said Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin. “We welcome the Federal Highway Administration and the Roadway Safety Foundation’s award because it attests to our commitment in working to combat the tragic, decade-long rise in fatal and injurious incidents on California’s roadways.” The 2020-24 Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) is anchored by the underlying goal of making zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries a reality. In summer 2020, state transportation leaders from a wide range of organizations recognized a bolder and more focused approach was necessary to combat troubling trends in traffic safety. This important change ― referred to as “The Pivot” ― led to focusing on high-priority areas, expanding SHSP membership, and adopting four guiding principles in the updated statewide data-driven traffic safety plan: · Integrating equity into all aspects of the plan. · Implementing a Safe System Approach. · Doubling down on what works. · Accelerating advanced technology. Based on these principles, the 2020-2024 plan places renewed emphasis on addressing historical, systemic and present-day biases and improving safety for all groups, particularly in vulnerable and underserved communities. “Future travelers in California, whose lives and limbs will be spared, will owe an unknowing debt of gratitude to the state's traffic safety planners,” said Roadway Safety Foundation Executive Director Gregory M. Cohen. “We urge DOTs across the nation to look at Caltrans, the entire California team, and other awardees’ innovations and replicate them wherever possible.” “Congratulations to today’s seven honorees for the remarkable work they’ve done to protect the traveling public,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “They are proof that we have no shortage of willpower or good ideas for improving roadway safety.” The biennial National Roadway Safety Awards rely on an expert panel of judges from a variety of disciplines to evaluate projects that involve infrastructure, operational, or program-related innovations, and to select winners using three criteria ― effectiveness, innovation, and the efficient use of resources. Visit the National Roadway Safety Awards page for more information on the program. SBA Disaster News Release – Deadline Approaching in Nevada for SBA Working Capital Loans Due to Drought SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Director Tanya N. Garfield of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Disaster Field Operations Center-West today reminded small nonfarm businesses in 17 Nevada counties and neighboring counties in Arizona, California, Idaho, Oregon and Utah of the Nov. 5, 2021, deadline to apply for an SBA federal disaster loan for economic injury. These low-interest loans are to offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by drought in the following primary counties that began Jan. 1, 2021. Primary Nevada counties: Churchill, Clark, Elko, Esmeralda, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Lincoln, Lyon, Mineral, Nye, Pershing, Washoe and White Pine; Neighboring Nevada counties: Carson City, Douglas and Storey; Neighboring Arizona county: Mohave; Neighboring California counties: Inyo, Lassen, Modoc, Mono, Nevada, Placer, San Bernardino and Sierra; Neighboring Idaho counties: Cassia, Owyhee and Twin Falls; Neighboring Oregon counties: Harney, Lake and Malheur; Neighboring Utah counties: Beaver, Box Elder, Iron, Juab, Millard, Tooele and Washington. According to Garfield, small nonfarm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. “Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster’s impact,” said Garfield. “SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disaster and businesses directly impacted by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the applicant suffered any property damage,” Garfield added. The interest rate is 3 percent for businesses and 2 percent for private nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. By law, SBA makes Economic Injury Disaster Loans available when the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. The Secretary declared this disaster on March 5, 2021 Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Services Agency about the U.S. Department of Agriculture assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration. However, nurseries are eligible for SBA disaster assistance in drought disasters. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. ### About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov. _________________________________ GRANT PROVIDES VITAL FUNDING FOR THE CHP TO ENFORCE SAFETY FOR BICYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS10/4/2021 SACRAMENTO, Calif. – To help fund the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) yearlong effort to promote safety for bicyclists and pedestrians, the Department has been awarded the California Pedestrian and Bicyclist Enforcement and Education Project IXgrant. Beginning October 1, 2021, this grant enables officers to conduct enhanced enforcement patrols and public awareness campaigns throughout the state. “It is important for motorists to scan each intersection for foot and bicycle traffic before entering, and it is especially important during hours of darkness,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said. “Pedestrian and bicycle fatalities account for nearly one-third of all traffic-related deaths annually in California with the vast majority occurring at night.” In 2019 and 2020 combined, 7,594 people were killed in crashes throughout California, with pedestrians and bicyclists accounting for 2,354 of those deaths. October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, and on National Walk to School Day, October 6, 2021, the CHP will focus its education and enforcement efforts in locations with high numbers of pedestrian and bicyclist crashes. Officers in plain clothes will work with uniformed officers to monitor crosswalks and areas surrounding schools for motorists who fail to yield the right-of-way or who drive unsafe and illegally. The educational component of the grant funds traffic safety skills and training courses and informative presentations related to safe traffic behavior for high-risk populations, including older community members and youth. The grant also supports the distribution of safety equipment such as bicycle helmets and reflective gear. 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. # # # GRANT PROVIDES VITAL FUNDING FOR THE CHP TO ENFORCE SAFETY FOR BICYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS SACRAMENTO, Calif. – To help fund the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) yearlong effort to promote safety for bicyclists and pedestrians, the Department has been awarded the California Pedestrian and Bicyclist Enforcement and Education Project IXgrant. Beginning October 1, 2021, this grant enables officers to conduct enhanced enforcement patrols and public awareness campaigns throughout the state. “It is important for motorists to scan each intersection for foot and bicycle traffic before entering, and it is especially important during hours of darkness,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said. “Pedestrian and bicycle fatalities account for nearly one-third of all traffic-related deaths annually in California with the vast majority occurring at night.” In 2019 and 2020 combined, 7,594 people were killed in crashes throughout California, with pedestrians and bicyclists accounting for 2,354 of those deaths. October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, and on National Walk to School Day, October 6, 2021, the CHP will focus its education and enforcement efforts in locations with high numbers of pedestrian and bicyclist crashes. Officers in plain clothes will work with uniformed officers to monitor crosswalks and areas surrounding schools for motorists who fail to yield the right-of-way or who drive unsafe and illegally. The educational component of the grant funds traffic safety skills and training courses and informative presentations related to safe traffic behavior for high-risk populations, including older community members and youth. The grant also supports the distribution of safety equipment such as bicycle helmets and reflective gear. 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. GRANT PROVIDES VITAL FUNDING FOR THE CHP TO ENFORCE SAFETY FOR BICYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS SACRAMENTO, Calif. – To help fund the California Highway Patrol’s (CHP) yearlong effort to promote safety for bicyclists and pedestrians, the Department has been awarded the California Pedestrian and Bicyclist Enforcement and Education Project IXgrant. Beginning October 1, 2021, this grant enables officers to conduct enhanced enforcement patrols and public awareness campaigns throughout the state. “It is important for motorists to scan each intersection for foot and bicycle traffic before entering, and it is especially important during hours of darkness,” CHP Commissioner Amanda Ray said. “Pedestrian and bicycle fatalities account for nearly one-third of all traffic-related deaths annually in California with the vast majority occurring at night.” In 2019 and 2020 combined, 7,594 people were killed in crashes throughout California, with pedestrians and bicyclists accounting for 2,354 of those deaths. October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, and on National Walk to School Day, October 6, 2021, the CHP will focus its education and enforcement efforts in locations with high numbers of pedestrian and bicyclist crashes. Officers in plain clothes will work with uniformed officers to monitor crosswalks and areas surrounding schools for motorists who fail to yield the right-of-way or who drive unsafe and illegally. The educational component of the grant funds traffic safety skills and training courses and informative presentations related to safe traffic behavior for high-risk populations, including older community members and youth. The grant also supports the distribution of safety equipment such as bicycle helmets and reflective gear. 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. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) have announced a joint effort at the Feather River Fish Hatchery in Butte County to aid in offsetting impacts to spring-run and fall-run Chinook salmon resulting from this year’s extreme drought conditions. Under this joint initiative, CDFW and DWR are taking a two-part approach supporting Feather River salmon populations to guard against impacts observed during the state’s last multi-year drought, as well as protect against impacts observed in recent years due to a nutrient deficiency. “During California’s last extended drought, we observed significant declines in Sacramento Valley fall-run Chinook salmon stock contributions to the state’s sport and commercial fishery,” said Colin Purdy, environmental program manager for fisheries in CDFW’s North Central Region. “We’re trying to get ahead of any drought-related impacts this time by taking these actions and trying to keep these populations as stable and healthy as we can.” First, the agencies will try to increase the number of spring-run Chinook salmon successfully spawning in-river by returning healthy adults that have returned to Feather River Fish Hatchery that are in excess of those needed to meet hatchery production goals and have been treated with a nutrient supplement. Second, in anticipation of decreased recruitment to the ocean fishery, fall-run Chinook salmon production at the hatchery will be increased from 6 million to 7.75 million smolts. “Even though wild salmon and hatcheries are well studied throughout California and the Pacific Northwest, our community of dedicated state, federal and university scientists continues to uncover new information,” said Jason Kindopp, manager of DWR’s Feather River Program. “Managing hatcheries and salmon populations presents new challenges every season and using the best data available helps inform our actions to fit the moment.” Earlier this spring, adult spring-run Chinook salmon collected at the Feather River Fish Hatchery were provided a thiamine supplement injection to protect against impacts from Thiamine Deficiency Complex (TDC). TDC was first observed in Central Valley Chinook populations in 2019, and results in early egg and fry mortality in progeny from affected adults. This year, once spring-run spawning production goals are met, the hatchery will return any excess, healthy adult broodstock that have been treated for TDC back to the river to spawn naturally and promote in-river production. “The thiamine deficiency has been showing up in returning adults these past few years due to a change in ocean food resources. This year, providing the thiamine supplement at the hatchery will help production both at the hatchery and in the natural spawning areas,” said Jason Julienne, senior environmental scientist, supervisor for CDFW's North Central Region Hatchery Program. “By returning thiamine supplemented adults to the river we can maximize the benefit of that action to the Feather River spring-run population.” The spawning of spring-run Chinook salmon by CDFW staff during September was successful with more than 3 million eggs harvested. The spawning of fall-run Chinook salmon at the Feather River Fish Hatchery will begin in early October with the goal of producing 7.75 million fall-run Chinook salmon smolts to be released in the spring of 2022. The Feather River Fish Hatchery is a California State Water Project facility owned and maintained by DWR, which funds hatchery operations. CDFW operates the hatchery, including fish spawning, rearing and stocking activities. ### SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond today announced a statewide effort to secure donations with the goal of providing one million books for students and their families. This book drive happens in conjunction with a statewide literacy campaign launched last month that includes a task force working toward the goal of helping all California students reach the goal of literacy by third grade, by the year 2026. Superintendent Thurmond and the California Department of Education (CDE) are working closely with First 5 California and are seeking further partnerships to reach the goal of providing one million books to students and families. “Our literacy effort is multifaceted, with legislation that will be introduced in 2022 for providing resources and advancing literacy and biliteracy goals through professional learning and family engagement—as well as this effort of to get a million books into the hands of California students and their families,” Thurmond said. “Students who can’t read by the third grade are at greater risk to drop out and end up in the criminal justice system, so this effort is more than just reaching a literacy milestone—it’s also about equity, justice, and putting students on a path that can create a lifetime of success.” Cash donations are welcome, and the CDE and First 5 California are seeking partners that can collect and distribute in-kind donations of books. Please send checks to First 5 California, 2389 Gateway Oaks Drive, Suite 260, Sacramento, CA 95833. Checks can be made out to “California Children and Families Commission” with a memo line that says “books.” Superintendent Thurmond has also been visiting schools around the state to promote literacy and biliteracy. Last week, he joined Pasadena Unified School District officials and school and community leaders to tour a sixth-grade dual language class and a biliteracy class for newcomers at Blair High School in Pasadena. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, he donated a book on United States Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Those interested in participating in the literacy effort, helping with logistics (including collection and distribution of books), and wishing to learn more should email statewideliteracycampaign@cde.ca.gov. Additional details about the statewide book drive and an online portal for donations are forthcoming. ##### The California Department of Education is a state agency led by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. For more information, please visit the California Department of Education’s website. You may also follow Superintendent Thurmond on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. --- Lassen National Forest/Plumas National Forest Forest Service News ReleaseWEST ZONE UPDATE 963,309 Acres 94% Containment 1,805 Total Personnel Y esterday The fire was more active yesterday and smoke was visible. Firefighters answered service calls and were able to determine that the smoke reports, including one near Wilson Lake were well interior and not a threat to containment lines. Equipment continued work along Highway 89 stacking and removing debris. Crews continued suppression repair work in the area around Silver Lake and patrolled the perimeter of the West Zone. Today Fire activity and smoke is expected in the unburned fuel within the fire’s perimeter, but no additional growth is expected. Firefighters will patrol the perimeter, mop up areas of heat, and be available for initial attack throughout the day. Firefighters will continue suppression repair work of dozer lines on all perimeters of the West Zone. Suppression repair work includes breaking down berms that were created when containment lines were pushed by dozers during initial attack. Organic material such as limbs and brush will be scattered back across the dozer line. Breaking up the soil berms and spreading out woody material allows it to cool to minimize smoke production and limit reburn potential. Additional fire crews will be assessing and felling fire-weakened trees that could be a danger to repair equipment and crews. Weather The warming and drying trend will continue today, winds will remain light and mostly terrain driven, shifting to westerly in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to reach the 80s with sunny skies. Minimum relative humidities are expected in the single digits. Closure A closure order remains in effect for some areas of the Lassen and Plumas National Forests. For more information, please visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/7690/ or visit our interactive Dixie Fire forest closure map: https://arcg.is/1re8my0 East Zone Information For the East Zone update, visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7690/ Follow QR Code or link below for contacts and additional information LINKS - InciWeb the Incident Information System (nwcg.gov) USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. Today Congress passed the Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act, a continuing resolution to fund the government through Dec. 3. The act also includes supplemental aid to farmers and ranchers, who have endured one disaster after another. California Farm Bureau President Jamie Johansson today hailed the passage of the continuing resolution, which also reauthorizes the Wildfire and Hurricane Indemnity Program Plus program. The WHIP+ program provides aid to agricultural communities across the U.S. that faced unprecedented hardships in 2020 and 2021 from drought, wildfires, hurricanes and other natural disasters that caused vast crop damage and devastation to farming operations. “California’s farmers and ranchers have experienced substantial crop damage due to wildfire and drought over the past two years,” Johansson said. “In addition to crops being fallowed by drought conditions, our producers have seen their productive acreage burned or damaged by wildfire and smoke taint. “This disaster assistance will provide California’s family farms with needed additional support, providing both stability for our farmers and a safeguard for America’s domestic food supply.” Johansson thanked Reps. Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena) and Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) and Sen. Alex Padilla (D-California) and expressed his appreciation for the support from many other members of the California congressional delegation. The California Farm Bureau works to protect family farms and ranches on behalf of nearly 32,000 members statewide and as part of a nationwide network of nearly 5.6 million Farm Bureau members. # # # SACRAMENTO—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond applauded Governor Newsom’s action that would add the COVID-19 vaccine to other vaccinations required for in-person school attendance—such as measles, mumps, and rubella—as stated by the Health and Safety Code. It’s anticipated the COVID-19 vaccine mandate would be fully implemented to grades seven through twelve on July 1, 2022. A vaccine mandate for kindergarten through sixth grades would follow at a later date. A vaccine mandate for all kindergarten through grade twelve staff is scheduled to be implemented at the same time as students in grades seven through twelve. “I have no doubt that today’s announcement by the Governor will lead to safer schools and safer communities,” stated Thurmond. “I look forward to working with the Governor, his administration, school districts, and school communities across the state to implement this important change.” Superintendent Thurmond has traveled up and down the state visiting with school and state leaders as well as community partners to promote vaccines for all eligible individuals, especially those in the hardest-hit communities. This includes reaching to close to 500,000 Californians via virtual town hall. “In the coming weeks, I will be launching a public service campaign to expand vaccination rates across the state,” said Thurmond. “California is already leading the way in combatting this virus, with one of the lowest COVID-19 test positivity rates in the country; the safety measures we take collectively now in our schools will be pivotal to how our communities emerge from the pandemic, and this is especially true for our most vulnerable communities. COVID-19 vaccines provide the best protection possible that will allow students to get back to enjoying what they love most, including school sports, clubs, and social events. We look forward to working with the California Department of Public Health to support this effort that will keep schools safely open. Thanks to public health measures, our communities have opened up, we have been able to hug loved ones, and can now gather again. Let’s not lose that progress. The Governor’s action comes at the right time.” ##### The California Department of Education is a state agency led by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. For more (Washington, DC) – Congressman Doug LaMalfa issued the following statement after Governor Newsom announced that COVID-19 vaccines will be required for all public and private school students. This mandate will most quickly impact children age 12 to 15 as the requirement will likely begin next school year. But children age 5 to 11 will also be included in the mandate when the FDA approves the COVID-19 vaccine for their age group. Rep. LaMalfa said, “Yet again Governor Newsom is overstepping his authority and trying to dictate the health decisions of Californians—this time of children. COVID is not the same as measles and mumps, and by comparing them, the Governor creates a false feeling of fear. The state does not own our children. Parents, with the consultation of family doctors, not a State Governor, President, or a school district should be making health decisions for their children. This move appears to be a vindictive attack on the families who disagree with Newsom. I look forward to the many lawsuits stopping this new mandate.” LaMalfa has introduced two bills intended to prevent forced COVID-19 vaccinations: H.R. 2414, the Keep Vaccines Voluntary Act will:
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