CALIFORNIA — As Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer travel season, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is ramping up its enforcement efforts to keep roadways safe. From Friday, May 23rd, at 6:00 p.m. through Monday, May 26th at 11:59 p.m., officers across the state will be out in force for the annual Memorial Day Holiday Enforcement Period (HEP). Targeting ...

CALIFORNIA — The California Transportation Commission (CTC) has approved nearly $1.7 billion in new funding for transportation infrastructure improvements. This investment is aimed to enhance safety, mobility, and climate resiliency across the state. The announcement supports Governor Gavin Newsom’s “Build More, Faster – For All” infrastructure agenda. This aims to modernize the state’s highway system for long-term sustainability and accessibility. ...

CALIFORNIA — In an aggressive move to combat rising rates of reckless driving, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) has launched a fleet of low-profile enforcement vehicles aimed at catching speeders, aggressive drivers, and those treating public roads like a racing simulator. New Fleet Offers Stealth & Speed The CHP is deploying 100 specially marked patrol vehicles (SMPVs). Specifically, Dodge Durangos ...

CENTRAL VALLEY — According to reports from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a routine traffic stop on southbound State Route 99 recently led to a major discovery. With the help of K9 Shei, Officers recovered both illegal drugs and an unregistered firearm. K9 Uncovers Drugs & Gun During the traffic stop, the officer noticed that the driver and passenger appeared ...

CALIFORNIA — Recently, the California Highway Patrol made two significant drug seizures on Interstate 5. The seizures resulted in over 350 pounds of confiscated illegal substances. Cocaine Hidden in Truck Roof On February 28th, a routine traffic stop by a Central Division K-9 unit on the I-5 led to a major cocaine bust. The stop involved a Ford F150 driven ...

Our Inside Garden By Tery Susman – UC Mariposa Master Gardener Now that it’s winter and our outside gardens are taking a nap, it’s time to turn our attention to growing HOUSEPLANTS! Growing houseplants can be just as rewarding as outdoor gardening. Healthy houseplants add beauty to our homes and improve indoor air quality. Plants in the natural garden rely ...

FRESNO COUNTY — The Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH) has reported two influenza-related fatalities among seniors for the 2024-2025 flu season, prompting health officials to stress the importance of vaccinations. The deceased, both over the age of 65, represent the first recorded influenza-associated deaths in Fresno County this flu season. Nationwide & Statewide Statistics Nationally, influenza has been ...

GLOBAL — The Yosemite Songwriting Retreat is set to inspire musicians again with its 13th season, featuring a special virtual event in February. This unique online retreat, accessible globally, promises an entire weekend of musical creativity. About Yosemite Songwriting Retreat “The Yosemite Songwriting Retreat celebrates the art and craft of songwriting and performing original songs. Our mission is to support ...

SACRAMENTO— As critical fire weather continues to increase wildfire risk across much of Southern California, CAL FIRE urges all residents to take proactive steps to protect their families, homes, and communities. The “Ready, Set, Go!” campaign offers clear guidance to ensure everyone is prepared for wildfire emergencies. READY Prepare your home and property. Create defensible space and harden your home. ...

CALIFORNIA — The Sierra National Forest (SNF) invites the public to provide input for the 2026 California Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program application cycle. Importantly, this initiative aims to gather ideas and feedback from community members, organizations, and stakeholders to guide the development of grant proposals for the 2025 submission cycle, covering projects planned for the 2026 ...