[PM News Update]
For a year and a half, the building at the corner of Maine and Perkins sat empty. It looked like Redwood Credit Union was putting a branch in downtown Ukiah. They applied for a permit and they received it, but just last month, RCU has decided to pull out of that opportunity and they have withdrawn their permit application for the former savings bank site. The reason being it was going to be too costly to tear down the old building and put up something brand new, something that would bring it up to their standards and make it an asset to the community. Redwood Credit Union says they still want to invest in and serve the Ukai community, but as for now, the building at the corner of Perkins and Main Streets, the old Dragon’s lLair building still sits empty.
It’s known as the biggest one west of the Mississippi and it’s just about to start up for this year. It is the 40th Catfish Derby and it takes place in Clearlake Oaks. The event will begin one week from tomorrow, that’s May17th, and run through the 19th. This is where the community has a chance to get out and enjoy the great weather, chow down on some barbecue, catch up with friends, catch some catfish and then celebrate the winners. The Derby headquarters are at the Clearlake Oaks Fire Department on East Highway 20. There’s always a prize for the largest fish caught and this year in the adult division the prize is a real whopper as well…5-thousand dollars! There are two kids divisions and each of those winners gets one hundred dollars for the biggest fish. They’re expecting about 1,000 anglers and their families and friends to fill up nearby resorts, motels, air B&Bs and campgrounds. Registration and check-in begin on Thursday, May 17, at noon and fishing starts at noon on Friday concluding at noon on Sunday.
Mendocino County supervisors have chosen to delay action on a 10-pump service station/convenience store to be built along the Highway 101 freeway at Redwood Valley. The choice to delay an action has added to the hopes of the Redwood Valley Municipal Advisory Council. They have expressed concern over the multi-million-dollar project. It was on Tuesday that the Board voted to hold off for now. That was brought about by Faizan Corporation’s appeal to the County Planning Commission for denial of a required use permit. The president of Faizan says opponents are holding a grudge against him and threatened to sell the property to a tribal group which means no new revenue or services for the County.
HIV and syphilis are increasing among residents in the Mendocino County area. This according to health officials. The Deputy Public Health Director warns that if you have had sexual contact or share injection drugs with a partner who has an unknown history, there is a very good chance that you may have been exposed to HIV and syphilis. You can get HIV tests at takemehome.org. or by visiting Planned Parenthood in Ukiah. Health officials also advise residents to be sure to ask about post-exposure treatment. It must start within 72 hours. If you are concerned about your status, you are advised to see a medical provider.
