At 10:16 this morning, millions of Californians will pause for the Great ShakeOut, the statewide earthquake safety drill. More than ten million people, including school students, workers, and families, will practice drop, cover, and hold on for one minute. The idea is to make those moves automatic when a real quake hits. Experts say these simple actions can save lives in a state with more than 15,000 known faults.
The push to recall Mendocino County District Attorney David Eyster hit a snag this week after election officials rejected the group’s paperwork. County Registrar Katrina Bartolomie said the filing had errors in names and addresses, forcing organizers to start over. Ukiah resident Helen Sizemore, who’s leading the effort, says she still plans to move forward despite the setback. She’s protesting the state law that extended Eyster’s term to 2028, saying voters never agreed to the extra time in office.
Lake County’s annual Health & Wellness Expo returns to Lakeport this Saturday with a full day of free, family fun and healthy living. The event runs from 10 to 3 at Xabatin Community Park and will feature fitness demos, wellness workshops, and free health screenings. Organizers say the goal is to connect people with local resources on everything from nutrition to mental health. Food trucks, live music, and kids’ activities round out the day, and you can find full details on the event’s Facebook page.
Starting November 7, Lakeport residents can cash in their CRV bottles and cans closer to home thanks to a new recycling pilot program. The City of Lakeport and Redwood Waste Solutions will host mobile recycling each Friday at 1285 South Main Street from 7:30 to 4. People can bring in their beverage containers and get paid by check right there on-site. The goal is to make recycling simple, local, and worth the trip.
Ukiah locals interested in protecting the city’s history can stop by the Ukiah Valley Conference Center tonight between 5:30 and 7. The city and the Historical Society of Mendocino County are teaming up for a community workshop on how to preserve historic buildings and landmarks. Organizers say they’ll share information, take questions, and gather ideas for Ukiah’s first historic preservation policy. They’re hoping for strong turnout to make sure the plan truly reflects the community.
California parents will soon face tougher rules to keep kids safe in the car. A new law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom takes effect in 2027, requiring children ages 8 to 16 to pass a five-step seatbelt check before riding without a booster. If the belt doesn’t fit correctly—across the collarbone and thighs, with knees bending comfortably at the seat’s edge—drivers could be fined up to $500. The law also keeps booster seat requirements in place for kids under 8 or under 4-foot-9, aiming to make every ride safer for young passengers.
