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Community

Now is the time to prepare for wet weather and winter driving

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Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Published: 16 October 2025
Caltrans is reminding motorists that now is the time to prepare for wet weather and winter driving, as an early season storm is forecast to bring valley rain and mountain snow early next week.
Winterize your vehicle
• Check your radiator fluid level and add antifreeze/coolant as needed.
• Wiper blades should be replaced if needed. Adding a winter formula windshield wiper fluid will help de-ice your windshield.
• Make sure your tires are properly inflated and that the tread is in good condition.
• Always carry chains or tire traction device which meets the requirements of CA Vehicle Code Section 605.
Be prepared/emergency supplies
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Blankets, extra clothing, water and snacks
• Clean, dry towel
• Gloves
• Ice scraper/deicer
• Shovel and broom
• Spare key
• Sand or kitty litter
Winter driving tips
• Allow extra time to reach your destination.
• Keep your fuel tank full or a full electric charge before heading into the Sierra Nevada.
• Slow down and wear your seat belt. Use low gears to slow your vehicle and avoid using the brakes if possible. Remember that having four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive improves climbing traction but does not help to stop the vehicle.
• Turn off cruise control. Maintaining control of your vehicle will allow you to react to sudden changes.
• Don’t panic if your vehicle begins to slide.
• Be observant and aware of the potential for black ice.
Additional driving tips
• Fog: Reduce speed, use headlights on low beam. Stay to the right using the white edge line next the shoulder, commonly referred to as the fog line.
• Flood: Never drive through deep water, turn around and find another route. Watch for items traveling down stream that can create additional hazards. Remember to test the brakes, as wet brakes have lost stopping power and need to be dried out.
• “Move Over” Law: California state law requires motorists to slow down, and if safe, move over when a Caltrans or emergency vehicle is flashing warning lights. This protects the safety of workers, who face danger from fast moving traffic.
For additional information motorists are encouraged to check the NWS forecast for any updates and Caltrans’ QuickMap before traveling for current road conditions and chain requirements or download the QuickMap app from the App Store or Google Play. Road information is also available on Caltrans’ website or by calling the California Highway Information Network automated phone service at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623).

Election observer panel volunteers needed for Nov. 4 Statewide Special Election

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Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Published: 15 October 2025

LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — The Lake County Registrar of Voters office will convene an election observer panel to observe activities associated with the Statewide Special Election, which will be held on Nov. 4.

Representatives of the Lake County Grand Jury, political party county central committees, local clubs, media and other groups or individuals expressing an interest in observing Election Day activities will be invited to participate.

The purpose of an election observer panel is to provide the public with the opportunity to observe and make suggestions on ways to improve the election process; maintain the integrity of the election process; build voter confidence and encourage voter and public participation in the election process.

Typically, members of the panel visit one or more polling places on Election Day and then visit the central ballot counting center located in the Registrar of Voters Office, 325 N. Forbes St., Lakeport, to observe the tabulation of ballots on election night. 

Panel members are also invited to observe the processing of vote-by-mail ballots at the Registrar of Voters Office. 

Members of the panel will be provided with the information they need to participate in these activities.

Anyone interested in serving on the election observer panel should contact the Registrar of Voters Office by phone, 707-263-2372 or toll-free at 888-235-6730; email, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or in person at 325 N. Forbes St.

Please respond by Monday, Oct. 20, 2025.

State controller announces opening of the 2025-2026 Property Tax Postponement Program filing period

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Written by: State Controller's Office
Published: 13 October 2025

State Controller Malia M. Cohen has announced that applications for property tax postponement are now being processed.

California’s Property Tax Postponement, or PTP, Program, administered by Controller Cohen, allows eligible homeowners who are seniors, blind, or have a disability to postpone payment of property taxes on their primary residence.

In the 2024-25 tax year, California homeowners were able to postpone over $6.8 million in residential property taxes. Over the last few years, eligibility for tax deferment has been expanded several times by the addition of manufactured homes and adjustments to the income limit. This year, the household income limit has been raised to $55,181, reaching more seniors and Californians with disabilities. Household income for this PTP cycle will be based on 2024 household income

“For many seniors and Californians with disabilities, keeping up with rising housing costs can be overwhelming,” said Controller Cohen. “The Property Tax Postponement Program provides real relief — helping people stay in their homes, maintain stability, and preserve the communities they’ve helped build. By expanding eligibility, we’re ensuring that more Californians can access the support they need to live with dignity and peace of mind.”

PTP funding is limited. Applications will be processed in the order they are received, starting Oct. 1. 

The final filing deadline for the current tax year is Feb. 10, 2026. 

Participants must reapply each year and demonstrate they continue to meet eligibility requirements. When an applicant is approved, a lien will be placed on the real property or a security agreement will be filed with the Department of Housing and Community Development for a manufactured home, until the account is paid in full.

Applications and additional program details can be found online, by calling 800-952-5661 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Property owners affected by California fires or other California disasters may be eligible for another tax relief program that allows for reappraisal of damaged or destroyed property. For more information on this program, visit the California Board of Equalization’s disaster relief website.

Gleaners to hold Oct. 11 yard sale

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Written by: Elizabeth Larson
Published: 11 October 2025

FINLEY, Calif. — The Clear Lake Gleaner volunteers are having a yard sale on Saturday, Oct. 11.

The sale will take place at their parking lot at 1896 Big Valley Road, Finley.

Hours are from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Proceeds will benefit the Clear Lake Gleaners Inc. 

They are Lake County’s primary “food bank” and look forward to aiding those in need during the upcoming holiday season.

Join them in their efforts and stop by and browse the sale.

  1. Northern Rural Energy Network to distribute free energy efficiency kits Oct. 23 in Kelseyville
  2. Caltrans plans major roadwork through Oct. 16
  3. NREN cash rebates for new energy efficient appliances increased in Lake County 
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