July 10 , 2020

BUSINESSES EXERCISE COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS WITH READY2OPEN CAMPAIGN

MERCED—In an effort to protect customers and employees amidst increasing COVID-19 infections, Merced County and its six cities are working with local businesses on a self-certification safety process.

Branded as “Ready2Open,” the process allows local businesses to complete an online checklist to verify that they’ve taken steps to ensure the safety of customers and employees. Steps include safety signage, employee training, employee health screening, physical distancing measures, and routine sanitation.

Once a business verifies its information through the www.reopenmercedcounty.com/ready2open site, they’ll receive an emblem to display near the entrance of their store attesting to their self-certification. The emblems will look like this:

Store participation in this program is optional. While businesses can begin self-certification immediately, the official launch of the Ready2Open campaign is Monday.

In addition to the online self-certification process, some jurisdictions, including the City of Merced, City of Dos Palos, City of Gustine, City of Livingston and Merced County, will also provide certified businesses with a courtesy walk-through of their facilities to further ensure that COVID-19 safety measures are met.

The Ready2Open campaign is in response to rapidly increasing disease transmission, increased hospitalizations, and a rise in the percentage of people testing positive for COVID-19 in Merced County. The rapid increase in those categories resulted in the State once again shutting down indoor dining, bars, and various entertainment centers throughout Merced County.

If numbers continue to rise, the current shutdown could be extended by the State and additional business sectors could be closed. This can be prevented by basic safety measures including:
• Wearing face coverings in public;
• Social distancing of six feet or more;
• Avoiding large group gatherings;
• Washing your hands often with soap and water;
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick;
• Staying home if you’re sick;
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

July 10 , 2020

MERCED COUNTY, CITIES ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS TO “MASK UP”

MERCED—Due to a rapid increase of COVID-19 cases, Merced County and its six cities are encouraging residents to wear face coverings to slow the spread of COVID-19 and reopen the economy.

The campaign, known as “Mask-Up,” is intended to educate the public on the importance of face coverings and address “hotspots” throughout the County that are experiencing spikes of cases. The campaign will include public education efforts, materials promoting mask wearing, and mask distribution in various locations.

The use of face coverings is now mandated by the State and County. Wear a face covering whenever you’re out in public—it’s the safe thing to do, it’s the courteous thing to do, and it’s the right thing to do.

Face coverings are a proven way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and are required to be worn:
• Inside of, or in line to enter, any indoor public space;
• When obtaining healthcare services;
• Waiting for or riding on public transportation or while in any private or ride-sharing vehicle including operators of the transportation;
• When at the workplace or performing work off-site;
• While outdoors in public spaces when physical distancing is not feasible.

The more face coverings are used, the faster we can collectively stem the spread of COVID-19 and reopen parts of the economy. The alternative is the State imposing an extended shutdown on more sectors of our economy due to the rising infection rate. Please do your part so we can stop the spread and reopen.

Some masks, such as N95s, are more effective than others in terms of preventing illness. However, the main purpose of cloth face coverings or other types of masks is to prevent respiratory droplets from infecting others when you cough, sneeze or talk. It’s important to remember that some people infected with COVID-19 don’t show symptoms, while the disease is deadly for others. Wearing a mask is a sign that you’re being considerate of those around you that may have compromised immune systems. Face coverings/masks are not recommended for children younger than 2 years old, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is incapacitated.

Please encourage your family and friends to wear face coverings as well. You can do this by taking a photo of yourself wearing a face covering in public and posting it to social media using the #MaskMonday hashtag. And feel free to tag the Merced County Department of Public Health, Merced County, or your home city!

While face coverings are a critically important aspect of reducing the infection rate in Merced County, it should be combined with other protective measures such as:
• Social distancing of six feet or more;
• Avoiding large group gatherings;
• Washing your hands often with soap and water;
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick;
• Staying home if you’re sick;
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

July 9 , 2020

For a list of all the webinars that we have planned, visit pge.com/firesafetywebinars »

To learn more about our wildfire safety efforts and how you can prepare, visit pge.com/wildfiresafety »

Event notes
• While this event will focus on regional work in the identified counties, any PG&E customers are welcome to join.
• Closed captioning will be available in English, Spanish and Chinese; related information in these and other languages is available on PG&E’s website at www.pge.com/wildfiresafety »• The Webinar is being streamed. It is recommended that you listen via your computer speakers

July 9, 2020

Headquartered in Vacaville, California, Travis Credit Union is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution serving those who live, work, worship, or attend school in in Alameda, Colusa, Contra Costa, Merced Napa, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, and Yolo Counties. Currently, Travis Credit Union is the 13th largest credit union in California with more than 214,000 members and more than $3.3 billion in assets. As one of the leading financial institutions in Solano, Contra Costa, Napa, Yolo and Merced Counties, Travis Credit Union’s strength lies in its faithful commitment to its members and the community; its solid, secure history; and its long-standing track record of dedicated service.

July 8 , 2020

Through online virtual platforms, the resource center has been able to maintain parenting classes. Haines said the center contacted more than 100 families, providing them with services they wouldn’t have received otherwise. The local center is affiliated with the California Family Resource Association.
“We connect families and partners in a safe environment,” Haines said. The center serves at-risk families, children at-risk and the homeless.

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Phoenix Project Continues to Serve Participants During Pandemic

The Phoenix Project, which helps individuals get a fresh start following earlier setbacks in life, continues to be active during social isolation and quarantine mandated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A collaborative project between the Merced County Office of Education and the Merced County Office of Probation, the Phoenix Project gives adults who were incarcerated skills and training in various career pathways.
Toula Moua-Eccles, career educator through the Merced County Office of Education’s Educational Services department, said the Phoenix Project has held monthly orientations in May and June and will continue these sessions in July, for new referrals from the county probation department.
Orientations and workshops are all done through online Webex video conferencing meetings. In the meantime, participants who are attending training are still receiving assistance with gas stipends and mentoring. Participants who are working on their GED certificates are provided with GED practice tests and GED prep booklets.
Moua-Eccles said currently she has 39 participants in the program. So far in the 2019-2020 fiscal year the program has 20 career-technical education (CTE) graduates, three high school/GED graduates and 14 are employed. These graduates have completed one to five months of career-technical education training.
For more information, visit https://www.mcoe.org/deptprog/edservices/CandC/phoenix/Pages/phoenix.aspx.

July 3 , 2020

Residents Urged to Exercise COVID-19 Precautions Over Holiday Weekend

MERCED COUNTY, CA—With data from prior holiday weekends showing spikes of COVID-19 cases, residents are strongly advised to avoid mass gatherings, wear masks, and exercise good hand hygiene over the Fourth of July weekend.
This holiday weekend comes at a critical juncture for Merced County. Rapidly increasing cases of COVID-19 coupled with increased hospitalizations and a greater percentage of people testing positive for the disease has resulted in Merced County being placed on a State monitoring list and the closure of bars, indoor dining and other entertainment venues for an expected minimum of three weeks. If numbers continue to rise, that closure timeframe could be extended by the State and additional business sectors could be closed. If numbers trend downward in the coming days, the three-week closure could potentially be reduced.

This extended shutdown can be prevented by avoiding crowds or large family gatherings, practicing physical distancing, washing your hands often with soap and water, staying home if you’re sick, and wearing face coverings when:
* Inside of, or in line to enter, any indoor public space;
* Obtaining healthcare services;

* Waiting for or riding on public transportation or while in any private or ride-sharing vehicle including operators of the transportation;
* At the workplace or performing work off-site;
* Outdoors in public spaces where physical distancing is not possible.
Face coverings are a proven way to reduce the spread of COVID-19, said Dr. Salvador Sandoval, Merced County’s Public Health Officer.
“Face coverings protect those around you from respiratory droplets when you cough, sneeze or talk,” Dr. Sandoval said. “This is a deadly disease that spreads rapidly. Also, it affects people differently—you could be positive for COVID-19, but not have any symptoms. That’s why it’s essential for everyone to wear face coverings over their nose and mouth when in public.”
For more information on COVID-19, please visit Merced County Department of Public Health’s resource website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus.

As evidenced by the table below, holiday weekends have significantly contributed to the rise in cases due to large family gatherings,
a lack of physical distancing, and an absence of masks or face coverings:

If the upcoming holiday weekend results in another rise in cases,
Merced County will be at severe risk for an extended shutdown of various parts of the economy.

July 3 , 2020

Tree plan, annual plan on Council agenda

The City Council will hear a report on its urban forestry plan and hold a public hearing on the HUD Annual Action Plan at its Monday night meeting.

The regular meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, in the Council Chambers on the second floor of the Merced Civic Center (City Hall), 678 W. 18th St. It is also available online.

The City received a $470,000 grant to create an urban forestry plan for the City-owned trees. The plan includes an inventory of all the trees, plus a management plan for the next 8 years.

Also on the agenda:

• A public hearing on the Federal Housing and Urban Development Department Annual Action Plan, a document that outlines how the City will spend federal funds over the next year. The Council also will be asked to approve the Consolidated Action Plan, which looks at a 5-year timeline. There is approximately $2 million of HUD funding available.

• Consider a cooperative agreement with Caltrans for Phase 1 of the Highway 59 widening project and the Rascal Creek bridge project.

The Council will meet in closed session at 5 p.m. regarding labor negotiations, real property negotiations and existing litigation.

The meeting will be broadcast on Facebook Live at City of Merced, on the City’s website, www.cityofmerced.org, and Comcast Public Access Channel 96. A link to the live meeting is on the City’s website at https://cityofmerced.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. Videos of previous meetings can be found at that link, and are tied to each agenda item. The Council agenda is posted online at www.cityofmerced.org.

In-person Council Meetings have strict social distancing practices in place and the use of
face coverings is encouraged. Seating in the Council Chamber will be limited and an overflow
room will be available in the Sam Pipes Room with the same social distancing practices in place.

• Members of the audience who wish to address the City Council are requested to complete a speaker card available at the podium on the right-hand side of the Council Chamber. Please submit the completed card to the City Clerk before the item is called, preferably before the meeting begins.

• For at-risk individuals or those not wanting to attend an in-person meeting during the current COVID-19 pandemic, please submit your public comment to the City Council electronically no later than 1 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Comments received before the deadline will be provided to the City Council prior to the meeting and will be part of the record. Material may be emailed to cityclerk@cityofmerced.org and should be limited to 300 words or less. Please specify which portion of the agenda you are commenting on, for example: Closed Session, Item Number or Oral Communications. Your comments will be provided to the City Council prior to the meeting and will be part of the record. Any correspondence received after 1 p.m. will be distributed to the City Council and retained for the official record.

• You may provide telephonic comments via voicemail by calling (209) 388-8688 by no later than 1 p.m. on the day of the meeting to be added to the public comment. Voicemails will be limited to a time limit of three (3) minutes. Please specify which portion of the agenda you are commenting on, for example: Public Hearing item number, Consent item number, or Oral Communications. Your comments will be played during the meeting to the City Council at the appropriate time.

To view video (if available) or listen to the City Council meeting live, go to the City’s website
www.cityofmerced.org, Facebook Live, or Comcast Public Access Channel 96.

Accommodation for individuals with disabilities may be arranged by contacting the City Clerk at
(209) 388-8650. Assisted hearing devices are available for meetings held in the Council
Chamber.

At least 72 hours prior to each regular City Council meeting, a complete agenda packet is
available for review on the City’s website at www.cityofmerced.org or at the City Clerk’s Office,
678 W. 18th St. All public records relating to an open session item that are distributed to a majority of the Council will be available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office during regular business hours. Spanish and Hmong translation is available at every regular meeting.

The City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month, except when there is a holiday, then it meets the following day.

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Revised Summer Program stresses healthy practices

The City of Merced Parks and Recreation Department is now open to take Summer Playground Program registration from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed noon to 1 p.m. for lunch).

The Summer Playground Program begins Monday, July 6, and will run until July 31from 8 a.m. to noon Monday-Friday for youngsters in grades K-6. Weekly activities will include: crafts, hiking, outdoor activities and a family color run. Cost is $25 a week, and all activities will be modified to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus and support social distancing.

Following federal, state, Merced County Public Health, and new industry standards, the Parks and Recreation Department has outlined new operating procedures for the Summer Playground Program to ensure the safety of our youth.

Activities will be modified to accommodate social distancing, as well as additional preventative steps to stop the spread of the coronavirus such as: regular disinfecting, mask wearing, social distancing, skill building activities rather than team building, small cohorts of no more than 10 youths each, contactless pick up and drop off for parents, health screenings, no shared snacks, toys or equipment, and keeping family groups together. There is a maximum of 25 campers. Registration packets are available online at: https://www.cityofmerced.org/departments/parks-community-services

The Zoo, rental facilities, Senior Center, playgrounds, pools, splash pads and sports fields all remain closed due to the coronavirus.

For information: Michelle Reid, Recreation Supervisor 385-6895.

July 3 , 2020

“Travis Credit Union continues to transform banking for our members, creating more opportunities for them to bank anywhere, anytime, and ensuring that our products and advice help members make real financial progress,” said Barry Nelson, president and CEO of Travis Credit Union. “Being a responsible community partner and a true advocate for our members’ financial wellbeing reflect some of the core values we live by as an organization. This achievement is a reflection of our members’ loyalty and commitment to excellent service by our team.”

Headquartered in Vacaville, California, Travis Credit Union is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution serving those who live, work, worship, or attend school in in Alameda, Colusa, Contra Costa, Merced Napa, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, and Yolo Counties. Currently, Travis Credit Union is the 13th largest credit union in California with more than 214,000 members and more than $3.3 billion in assets. As one of the leading financial institutions in Solano, Contra Costa, Napa, Yolo and Merced Counties, Travis Credit Union’s strength lies in its faithful commitment to its members and the community; its solid, secure history; and its long-standing track record of dedicated service.

July 3 , 2020

Some of the supplies were dispersed in the first round and more will be given out in the next few weeks during the second round of deliveries. More supplies are expected by the end of July.
Barragan stressed more licensed child care providers are needed in the county. Before the recession of 2008-2013 there were 406 licensed home child care providers in the county.
Now there are 206 licensed home child care providers, this is not enough to meet the needs of working families.
“We have grants to help with the licensing process and our staff are ready to provide technical assistance for anyone interested in opening a child care business. Child care providers are an essential part of our infrastructure and are greatly needed as we reopen, so families can go back to work and so parents can have options,” Barragan said.
The Early Education Department also offers professional development classes for licensed family child care providers, private centers and families. For information call (209) 381-4585.

July 3 , 2020

ACE trains will not operate on Friday, 7/3/20,
due to the Independence Day holiday. Service will resume on Monday, 7/6/20.

July 3 , 2020

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 AT STATE ROUTE 59/MARTIN LUTHER KING JR WAY

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform
various ramp closures on State Route (SR-99) for maintenance and construction work.
Closures are as follows:
• Full off-ramp closure from southbound SR-99 to SR-59/Martin Luther King Jr. Way
for landscape work on Wednesday, July 8, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
• Full on-ramp closure from SR-59/Martin Luther King Jr. Way to southbound SR-99
for landscape work on Thursday, July 9, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Motorists should expect 10-minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever
possible.
This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic
incidents, weather, availability of equipment, and/or materials and construction related
issues.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

CALTRANS TO BEGIN STRIPING PROJECT ON STATE ROUTE 140
IN MERCED COUNTY

STOCKTON – Caltrans is beginning a pavement delineation project that will install new
six-inch wide lane striping and other marker improvements on State Route 140 (SR-140)
at various locations throughout Merced County.
New striping improvements will be made on SR-140 at the following locations;
• From SR-33/Sullivan Road to 2nd Street in the City of Gustine
• From SR-99 to Kibby Road just east of the City of Merced
• From Plainsburg Road to Watt Street in the City of Planada
Work is scheduled to occur during both day and night-time hours and will include oneway
traffic control lane closures. Flaggers will assist motorists during lane closures and
Caltrans also will have changeable message signs in this region advertising the project
and alerting motorists of the potential delays.
Motorists can expect 15-minute delays and are encouraged to seek alternate routes.
This $611,000 project has been awarded to Pave-Tech Inc., of Vista, CA. Work is
scheduled to begin the week of July 13-17, 2020, with completion expected in
September 2020.
Schedules are subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of
equipment and/or materials and construction related issues.

July 2 , 2020

Merced County on Monitoring List with State-Mandated Closures for Businesses

MERCED COUNTY, CA – The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has flagged 19 counties, including Merced County (County) based on increased transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). As of July 1, the County is now on the third day of not having met state requirements listed in the attestation criteria allowing the County to progress from Stage 2 to 2B. The table below includes the metrics the state has identified as not having been met.
“The State has made it very clear that should the cases continue to increase without change over the next 21-day period, they may have to intervene or require that the County return to sheltering in place. We have worked so hard for the past several months in keeping numbers low. This is clearly not the case and while the Department does its part, it will be depending on residents in the community to do theirs,” said Dr. Rebecca Nanyonjo-Kemp, Merced County’s Public Health Director.
Due to the increased levels of transmission and hospitalizations, local health officials are working closely with CDPH and State officials to establish and implement steps to mitigate spread. At the direction of the Governor, Merced County Health Officials are mandating the closure of higher risk business sectors by Friday, July 3, 2020. All bars, brew pubs and breweries must cease operations (indoor and outdoor). In addition, the following business sectors must close all indoor operations:
• Restaurants (socially-distanced outdoor dining still permissible)
• Wineries and Tasting Rooms
• Family Entertainment Centers (e.g., bowling, movie theaters, etc.)
• Zoos and Museums
• Cardrooms
The above sectors will remain impacted for a minimum of 21 days, or until the County data monitored by CDPH improves. The ability of Merced County to reopen these sectors and prevent closure of other sectors is dependent on collective community action to reduce spread.

Further, to prevent further holiday-related spikes in COVID-19 cases, Merced County’s regional parks will be closed to the public over the Fourth of July holiday weekend (Friday-Sunday). This includes Lake Yosemite, Hagaman Park, and Henderson Park. These parks will reopen Monday, but physical distancing must be adhered to and group gatherings of greater than 10 people will continue to be prohibited.
We cannot emphasize enough that if the community fails to take the threat of COVID-19 seriously, the State will not allow these sectors to reopen, and may close additional sectors. As a reminder, it is a statewide mandate to wear a cloth face covering inside of, or in line to enter any indoor public space, or when unable to maintain six feet of social distance outside. Merced County Health Officials strongly recommends all residents (including business sectors) to practice the following safety measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19:
* Wear a cloth face covering or face shield;
* Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as door handles and elevator buttons;
* Practice social distancing;
* Wash hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds;
* When handwashing is not possible, use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol base; and
* If you experience any COVID-19 symptoms (available here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html) stay home and self-monitor.
For more information on COVID-19, please visit the Department’s resource website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus.

July 1 , 2020

County Health Officials Confirms Two COVID-19 Outbreaks

MERCED COUNTY, CA – The Merced County Department of Public Health (Department) has confirmed two outbreaks of COVID-19 in Merced County. The first outbreak is reported at New Bethany Residential Care located in Los Banos, CA, with one resident and two employees testing positive for the virus. State health officials define a workplace outbreak as three or more laboratory confirmed cases, or one positive case in a resident living within a skilled nursing facility setting. As these facilities operate 24 hours and are unable to close, safety measures have been implemented to prevent further transmission. The second outbreak is reported at Dutch Bros Coffee located in Merced, CA, with four employees testing positive for the virus.
“Due to the higher risk of severe illness among the vulnerable populations that our skilled nursing facilities serve, it is important that we continue to reduce the risk of exposure to both health care staff and the residents of our local nursing facilities. As a reminder, we should all continue to practice the safety measures that have been identified as effective actions against the spread of COVID-19 to prevent outbreaks in the community,” stated the Department’s Health Officer, Dr. Salvador Sandoval.
As the County reopens, outbreaks in facilities such as skilled nursing facilities and the service industry will be more common. The Department will no longer send out a press release for every outbreak, but will post affected facilities on the Departments’s coronavirus website.

To reduce the spread of COVID-19, everyone should continue to:
* Wear a cloth face covering when in public
* Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
* Practice social distancing
* Wash hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds.
* When handwashing is not possible, use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol base
For information pertaining to COVID-19, please visit the Department’s resource website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus.

June 25 , 2020

YARTS SUMMER SERVICE STARTS MONDAY

MERCED – The summer schedule for YARTS service to Yosemite National Park begins on Monday, June 22, 2020. This includes the routes from Fresno on Highway 41, from Sonora on Highway 120, and from Mammoth Lakes on Highways 395/120 in addition to the Highway 140 route from Merced. Although the Highway 140 service is year-round, service had temporarily terminated in El Portal during the closure of Yosemite due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reservations can be made for YARTS tickets on all four routes and can be booked on the YARTS website at: www.yarts.com starting on Monday. There are no additional charges to get into Yosemite beyond the YARTS fare and passengers do not have to have a day-use permit issued by the National Park Service to ride.
There are some notable changes to the service this year that have been made in response to the outbreak of COVID-19. In addition to increased sanitation measures, all passengers will be required to wear face masks when riding YARTS and offered access to hand sanitizer while on board. In order to promote social distancing, capacity on all buses will be reduced to a maximum of 30 passengers. With most of the 30 seats available to those with reservations, there will be very limited space to accommodate walk-on passengers. Therefore, reservations are highly encouraged.
“We are excited to be offering service into Yosemite once again,” said Transit Manager Christine Chavez. “Although things will be a little different on YARTS this year, the great rates and quality experience have not changed.”
For more information about YARTS schedules, routes, COVID-19 safety measures, or to reserve tickets, please visit www.yarts.com or call (877) 989-2787.

YARTS is a California Joint Powers Authority comprised of Merced, Mariposa and Mono Counties in partnership with Caltrans, Federal Highway Administration, National Park Service and the United States Forest Service. The Merced County Association of Governments provides administrative services and operational support for YARTS.

June 25 , 2020

Dena Rothmann

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Travis Credit Union Awards 20 Scholarships
to College-Bound Seniors

VACAVILLE, CA (June 22 , 2020) — Travis Credit Union recently awarded 20 local high school students the Mary Keith Duff Memorial Scholarship. TCU offers the annual scholarships to assist its young members with the increasing cost of higher education and to reinforce its commitment to the financial success of our country’s future leaders.
All of the winning students received a ‘Gala in a Box,’ which included the scholarship award announcement of $2,000 to help with college expenses, as well as a $200 gift card that could be used towards a family dinner celebration. TCU board members as well as executive leadership members coordinated live Zoom calls with the families to join with them virtually in opening the ‘special delivery’ box and celebrating their achievement.
“We’re so appreciative of the recognition of all the hard work these kids put in,” says Rikki Rivera, mother of scholarship winner, Kennedy Rivera. “My husband and I were both recently furloughed due to the pandemic – so financially this scholarship has helped us out more than we anticipated when she first applied. This is very helpful to our family.”
The TCU Board of Directors established the scholarship program in 2004 and named it the Mary Keith Duff Memorial Scholarship Fund in honor of a long-time board member. To date, TCU has contributed $437,000 to the program and will continue to award $40,000 annually.
“As a credit union, we are founded on the philosophy of ‘people helping people,’ and we stand behind the principles that promote human development and social responsibility,” says Patricia Moreno, chairman of the board for TCU. “Offering these scholarships is just one way we are assisting young members.”
To apply for the scholarship, college-bound high school seniors, who are TCU members in good standing, needed a GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) as well as a 500 word personal statement essay, expressing their plans for the future.
“These student’s achievements in school and community signify that they have the dreams and determination to make a difference in the lives of others,” added Barry Nelson, president and CEO of Travis Credit Union. “We are proud to honor them and be part of their plans for the future.”
A video featuring the honored students can be found here.
Headquartered in Vacaville, California, Travis Credit Union is a not-for-profit cooperative financial institution serving those who live, work, worship, or attend school in in Alameda, Colusa, Contra Costa, Merced Napa, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, and Yolo Counties. Currently, Travis Credit Union is the 13th largest credit union in California with more than 214,000 members and more than $3.3 billion in assets. As one of the leading financial institutions in Solano, Contra Costa, Napa, Yolo and Merced Counties, Travis Credit Union’s strength lies in its faithful commitment to its members and the community; its solid, secure history; and its long-standing track record of dedicated service.

June 25 , 2020

Testing Location Opens in Los Banos

MERCED COUNTY, CA – the Merced County Department of Public Health and Golden Valley Health Centers (GVHC) are partnering to set up a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) test site in Los Banos. The additional site will be offered on the westside of the County to ensure testing is available to all county residents.
Testing will be available by appointment starting on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, with hours of operations between 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. The new testing site is located at the Community Center, 645 7th Street, Los Banos. To schedule an appointment, please call 1-866-682-4842. For more information, please visit GVHC’s website at www.gvhc.org.
“We believe that everyone deserves quality health care, regardless of where you live, how much you earn, and whether you have medical coverage. By making COVID-19 testing more widely available, we can quickly address any positive cases and slow down the spread everywhere, especially in our higher-risk groups. This is a situation where we feel we could help make a difference for our communities,” said Tony Weber, President and CEO of Golden Valley Health Centers. “More testing means more people can get the care they need if any of those tests come back positive.”
If you are experiencing any symptoms associated with COVID-19 or suspect you’ve been exposed to an individual who tested positive for COVID-19, please get tested. Test sites are available to Merced County residents at most medical provider locations, as well as the following sites:

Testing Site
Location
Registration Golden Valley Health Centers 645 7th St, Los Banos 1-866-682-4842 www.gvhc.org
Golden Valley Health Centers
857 W. Childs Ave., Merced
1-866-682-4842
www.gvhc.org State Site 900 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr, Merced 1-888-634-1123 or online at www.lhi.care/covidtesting.

CVS – Merced
1970 Yosemite Pkwy, Merced
https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing?WT.ac=cvs-storelocator-searchpilot-header-covid-7206

CVS – Atwater 1651 Bellevue Rd, Atwater https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing?WT.ac=cvs-storelocator-searchpilot-header-covid-7206

“Our Department wants to ensure all Merced County residents have access to testing within the County. Testing for those individuals with symptoms, which are often mild, is extremely important to prevent the further transmission in our community. Even those individuals without symptoms should be tested, if a potential exposure has occurred. We must all continue to follow the recommend safety measures to work towards a healthier tomorrow,” says Dr. Salvador Sandoval, Public Health Officer.
As a general reminder, EVERYONE SHOULD:
*Wear a cloth face covering while out in public
* Social distance, making sure to maintain at least 6 feet between you and others
* Frequently wash your hands with soap and water
For information on COVID-19, visit the Department’s website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus.

June 25 , 2020

“It’s important that health and safety protocols are followed to keep students, families and school staff safe and healthy,” said Merced County Health Officer Dr. Salvador Sandoval. “The Merced County Department of Public Health will work closely with schools to monitor students or staff who may have symptoms or test positive for COVID-19.”
To provide for social distancing, activities that require students to congregate will not be permitted or will need to be greatly limited.
“It is important to note that each school community is unique and has its own needs, so by providing guidance documents, schools can come up with plans that best fit those needs,” Tietjen said. Each school district is responsible for creating its own reopening plan.
As the COVID-19 situation evolves, and as additional guidance from the State and Merced County Department Public Health is issued during the summer, this guidance document and school districts will adjust as needed.
The document also includes guidance for special education, preschool and after school programs.

June 19, 2020

California Mandates Use of Face Coverings in Public

MERCED COUNTY, CA – As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rapidly increase throughout the state, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a statewide mandate for face coverings for all individuals while in public. The mandate has been issued to limit the spread in COVID-19 associated the increasing number of residents leaving their homes for work and other needs while out in the community. Several public health officials have been met with significant opposition in implementing face covering mandates locally. Adoption of a statewide requirement is a significant step in helping control the spread of COVID-19.
Per the state requirement, face coverings will now be required to be worn for the following:
• Inside of, or in line to enter, any indoor public space
• When obtaining healthcare services
• Waiting for or riding on public transportation or while in any private or ride-sharing vehicle including operators of the transportation
• When at the workplace or performing work off-site
• While outdoors in public spaces when physical distancing is not feasible
“The Public Health Department fully supports and encourages all of our residents to follow the State’s new guidance mandating face coverings to be worn while out in public. This

past week has produced record case counts for several days on end. Community spread by those who are asymptomatic will continue to rise, if we do not do our part. I’ll continue to say that you should protect yourselves, your loved ones, and your neighbors by wearing a cloth face covering,” says Dr. Sandoval, Public Health Officer. The full statewide requirement can be found attached at the end of this article.
In alignment with the #StaySafeStayOpen campaign, EVERYONE SHOULD:
* Wear a cloth face covering while out in public
* Practice social distancing, making sure to maintain at least 6 feet between you and others
* Frequently wash your hands with soap and water
Merced County residents, who would like to be tested for COVID-19, may register for an appointment by calling 1-888-634-1123 or online at www.lhi.care/covidtesting.
For more information on COVID-19, visit the Department’s website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus.

June 19, 2020

City creates ‘gift card’ program for residents, merchants

Merced households will soon be receiving a letter with a code that can be redeemed for $25 worth of merchandise at participating local businesses after the City Council approved the program Monday night.
The $500,000 gift card program will benefit both the local businesses that have been hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and City residents who have been hurt by the economic fallout.
“These are tough times for our residents and our business community,” said Mayor Mike Murphy. “Anything that we can do to help them out is going to benefit the City in the long-term. This is part of a package of financial assistance that the City put together to help people out during this crisis.”
The City’s COVID-19 Recovery Program also includes assistance to renters, small businesses, the Food Bank, the Hotel Motel Association and a one-time utility bill rebate for all customers for a total of $2.37 million in aid.
The Central Valley Opportunity Fund provided $250,000 for the program, and the City matched it with another $250,000. There is a $37,000 cost to administer the program.
Sam Geil of the Central Valley Opportunity Fund said, “We like that this is a program assisting the people of Merced who have been hurt economically during the pandemic, but this also provides an economic boost to the local businesses that are the bedrock of the local economy.”
The City turned to Giftbar, LLC , as a partner in the gift card program. Giftbar, which reduced its fees while working with the City, operates a similar gift card program with the City of Clovis.

Alex Minicucci, CEO of Giftbar said, “We are thrilled to work with the City of Merced and bring this innovative new local economic stimulus program to its residents and businesses. We have a passion for supporting small business owners, and this is a great way to ensure local dollars get spent at local merchants.”
The new program will be promoted heavily by the city, including a letter sent to each household in Merced describing how to receive their complimentary gift card. They will go online to a unique website created by Giftbar, find the local merchant offering the product or service they want, register for their promotional gift card, and instantly receive a text with $25 voucher they can take to the merchant.

Giftbar says that its goal is to have the funds returned to merchants within 48 hours after redemption, about the same time as a credit card pays them. Local small businesses will choose to opt-in and will be featured on a unique website that will stay active for at least 2 years.
Residents should be receiving information about the program within the next 90 days.
Giftbar.com, owned and managed by RELENTLESS Management Group out of San Luis Obispo, Ca., is the country’s largest online marketplace for small business gift cards. With almost 15,000 salons, spas and boutique retail locations, consumers can find and send a personalized gift card in minutes, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.

June 19, 2020

State Budget Makes the Valley’s Dream of a UC Medical School a Reality

(Sacramento) – Assemblymember Adam C. Gray (D-Merced) released the following statement in response to the passage of the 2020 State Budget:

“Earlier this year, I said that a UC medical school in the Valley should be the legacy of this pandemic, not one of its victims. Today, that legacy became a reality. The 2020 State Budget provides $15 million per year every year to support a medical school at UCSF-Fresno and UC Merced. This represents the culmination of decades of tireless work and advocacy that will radically change the health care landscape in the San Joaquin Valley.

“Just as UC Merced has redefined who can go to college by enrolling more first-generation college students than any other campus in the UC system, this medical school will redefine who can be a doctor. It makes medical school a more realistic option for the thousands of Valley students who are qualified to become doctors but who cannot afford to move to places like San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Orange County.

“We know the best way to address the Valley’s shortage of medical providers is to recruit local students, train them close to home, and match them with local residencies. If we check

all three of those boxes, they are nearly guaranteed to stay and practice medicine in the Valley. That dream scenario is no longer just a good idea. It is now something that will actually happen.

“When I requested that $1 million be included in the 2015 State Budget to study how to establish a UC medical school in the Valley, I could not have predicted we would be as far along as we are today. By leveraging the incredible resources already available at UCSF-Fresno and UC Merced, we found a path to a medical school in years instead of decades and for millions instead of billions.

“The incredibly talented faculty working at UCSF-Fresno are already graduating hundreds of medical residents every year. Very soon, they and their UC Merced counterparts will begin training our first wave of medical students who will make the promise of health care for all a reality.”

Option 2: Ariel Fireworks Show
Fireworks would be shot up higher than normal from an undisclosed location so that most people can enjoy from their own homes with their families.
Option 3: No Show!
Please give us your feedback and would you be willing to donate for the show!”
The Livingston 4th of July Committee is and always has been made up individuals dedicated to serving this community. To our donors, sponsors and citizens of this community, we will be back in 2021! From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for your support
Donations can be made via the GoFundMe link https://www.gofundme.com/f/livingston-4th-of-july-fireworks-show, or mailed or dropped off at Livingston City Hall 1416 C Street Livingston, CA 95334. Make checks payable to Livingston 4th of July Committee.
Julio Valadez, Chairman Livingston 4th of July Committee Contact: 209-277-1402, livingston4thofjulyca@gmail.com

June 13, 2020

Budget, gift cards on Council agenda

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2020-21 budget, and hear a report on the City gift card program at its Monday night meeting.

The proposed $265.3 million budget is an increase of $10.8 million from last year to reflect the expansion of housing developments and the need to renovate and expand water and sewer services. The general fund budget is $43.9 million, a slight increase related to the $2 million Redevelopment Agency settlement payment that is the second of five payments that changes annually. The budget does include additional funding for the City Summer Playground Program and the Boys and Girls Club Summer Program.

The budget does not include any layoffs, but will delete one position and keep five other positions vacant. In addition, Department expenses were held to last year’s levels, and $1.1 million in one-time revenues were used to balance the general fund budget.

Also on the agenda are items that would:

• Approve spending $537,000 to establish a gift card program that would benefit local businesses and residents. The program would give a household a $25 card to spend at a Merced business, with $250,000 coming from the Central Valley Opportunity Fund.

• Present a report to Council on the City’s efforts to combat illegal fireworks during the upcoming celebration.


The Council will meet in closed session at 5 p.m. regarding labor negotiations and anticipated litigation.

The regular meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, June 15, in the Council Chambers on the second floor of the Merced Civic Center (City Hall), 678 W. 18th St.

It will be broadcast on Facebook Live at City of Merced, on the City’s website, www.cityofmerced.org, and Comcast Public Access Channel 96. A link to the live meeting is on the City’s website at https://cityofmerced.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. Videos of previous meetings can be found at that link, and are tied to each agenda item. The Council agenda is posted online at www.cityofmerced.org.

In-person Council Meetings have strict social distancing practices in place and the use of
face coverings is encouraged. Seating in the Council Chamber will be limited and an overflow
room will be available in the Sam Pipes Room with the same social distancing practices in place.

• Members of the audience who wish to address the City Council are requested to complete a speaker card available at the podium on the right-hand side of the Council Chamber. Please submit the completed card to the City Clerk before the item is called, preferably before the meeting begins.
• For at-risk individuals or those not wanting to attend an in-person meeting during the current COVID-19 pandemic, please submit your public comment to the City Council electronically no later than 1 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Comments received before the deadline will be provided to the City Council prior to the meeting and will be part of the record.. Material may be emailed to cityclerk@cityofmerced.org and should be limited to 300 words or less. Please specify which portion of the agenda you are commenting on, for example: Closed Session, Item Number or Oral Communications. Your comments will be provided to the City Council prior to the meeting and will be part of the record. Any correspondence received after 1 p.m. will be distributed to the City Council and retained for the official record.

• You may provide telephonic comments via voicemail by calling (209) 388-8688 by no later than 1 p.m. on the day of the meeting to be added to the public comment. Voicemails will be limited to a time limit of three (3) minutes. Please specify which portion of the agenda you are commenting on, for example:, Public Hearing item number, Consent item number, or Oral Communications. Your comments will be played during the meeting to the City Council at the appropriate time.

To view video (if available) or listen to the City Council meeting live, go to the City’s website
www.cityofmerced.org, Facebook Live, or Comcast Public Access Channel 96.

Accommodation for individuals with disabilities may be arranged by contacting the City Clerk at
(209) 388-8650. Assisted hearing devices are available for meetings held in the Council
Chamber.

At least 72 hours prior to each regular City Council meeting, a complete agenda packet is
available for review on the City’s website at www.cityofmerced.org or at the City Clerk’s Office,
678 W. 18th St. All public records relating to an open session item that are distributed to a majority of the Council will be available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office during regular business hours. Spanish and Hmong translation is available at every regular meeting.

The City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month, except when there is a holiday, then it meets the following day.

June 13, 2020

Merced County Revises Stay-at-Home Order into the Stay Safe Order

MERCED COUNTY, CA – Merced County Health Officials have issued a revised Health Officer Order which is effective immediately. This order is based on state guidance for further reopening of business sectors and will allow additional activities to reopen in Merced County following industry-specific guidelines released under the Statewide Resilience Roadmap to reopen. Further information on specific guidance can be found at: www.reopenmercedcounty.com/guidelines/
The revised order does the following:
? Recommends all members of the public wear face coverings where social distancing is difficult (i.e., during worship, while conducting business, when surrounded by groups of people, etc.) as recommended by the CDC.
* Allows for the reopening of the following sectors, with appropriate safety modifications:
* Day camps and youth activities
* Campgrounds, RV parks, and outdoor recreation (including public pools)
* Hotels for tourism (including public pools)
* Casinos, cardrooms, and racetracks (without spectators)
* Film, TV, and music production
* Professional sports without spectators
* Gyms and fitness centers (including public pools)
* Family entertainment centers including bowling, mini-golf, batting cages, and movie theaters
* Bars and wineries
* Zoos and museums

On 6/19/2020, the reopening of the following additional sectors will be permitted guidance issued from the state: aestheticians, skin care, and cosmetology services; electrology, waxing, and threading; nail salons; tattoo parlors and piercing shops; and massage therapy.
Private gatherings of over 10 people and mass gatherings remain prohibited. “The Department is committed to the community’s well-being in all aspects of health, including economically. Everyone plays a role in this recovery process and we can do our part by adhering to the preventative safety measures. Our collective action will help keep one another safe and keep Merced County open,” says Dr. Sandoval, County Health Officer.
As a general reminder, EVERYONE SHOULD:
* Wear a cloth face covering while out and about in the community;
* Practice social distancing, making sure to maintain at least 6 feet between you and others;
* Limit your social gatherings. The fewer the people, the lower the likelihood of spread and last, but certainly not least;
* Wash your hands with soap and water often.

If you are a Merced County resident who would like to be tested for COVID-19, please register for an appointment by calling 1-888-634-1123 or online at www.lhi.care/covidtesting.
For more information on COVID-19 and the Stay Safe Order, please visit the Department’s resource website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus or call the Department’s information line at (209) 381-1180 (English, Spanish, Hmong).

June 13, 2020

Assemblyman Adam Gray schedules blood drive

MERCED – With the need for blood urgent in communities across America, Assemblyman Adam C. Gray, D-Merced, will host a Merced Community Blood Drive on June 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Italo-American Lodge at 1351 West 18th Street in Merced.

It is the second blood drive this year that the Assemblymember has hosted.

Blood donations will be taken by appointment only and all social-distancing rules will be followed. Every staff member and potential donor will be screened for temperature and general health before entering the donation area. All donation stations are thoroughly sanitized between donations, according to Red Cross officials.

At the beginning of the Coronavirus outbreak, blood donations fell precipitously because the locations where many drives were conducted – schools, churches, public libraries, etc. -- were closed. Officials with the American Red Cross reported at the time that they had 86,000 fewer units than normal.

Because so many Americans – like those in Merced -- responded, a crisis was averted. But now the blood supply has once again dwindled just as summer – which often sees a surge in demand – is beginning.

While treatment of COVID-19 seldom requires blood transfusions, many routine hospital procedures do. “The need for blood is constant,” said Dr. Pampee Young, the chief medical officer of the American Red Cross. This ongoing demand has prompted Assemblyman Gray to act once again.

To make an appointment, call 800 733-2767 or visit www.redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and fill out an easy form. If you already have an account, you can visit www.redcrossblood.org/account-login.html to make arrangements. You can get help at customercare@redcross.org or by calling 866 236-3276.

June 13, 2020

“We appreciate Travis Credit Union’s generous commitment to matching $4 million in donations for local COVID-19 relief efforts,” said Damian Alarcon, president, Travis Credit Union Foundation. “Our COVID-19 Relief Initiative through community funding is a wonderful opportunity for Travis Credit Union to double the impact of individual donors. This initiative helps us to accomplish even more together.”

Individuals and charities are welcome to learn more about joining our COVID-19 Relief Initiative by visiting TCUfund.org.


About the Travis Credit Union Foundation
The Travis Credit Union Foundation supports financial education, literacy and wellness initiatives and is the philanthropic arm of the Travis Credit Union. The Foundation’s mission is to build financially empowered communities and its vision is to create philanthropic solutions for building sustainable financial wellness in communities for generations to come. 100 percent of funds raised go back to the community.

June 13, 2020

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 - FROM CHILDS AVENUE TO
STATE ROUTE 59/MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. WAY

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform
various ramp closures on State Route (SR-99) for maintenance and construction work.
Closures are as follows:
• Full off-ramp closure from northbound SR-99 to Childs Avenue for landscape work
on Monday, June 15, 2020, from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
• Full off-ramp closure from northbound SR-99 to SR-59/Martin Luther King Jr. Way
for landscape work beginning Tuesday, June 16, through Thursday, June 18, 2020,
from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
Motorists should expect 10-minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever
possible.
This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic
incidents, weather, availability of equipment, and/or materials and construction related
issues.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
HIGHWAY CLOSURE
STATE ROUTE 59/V STREET BETWEEN 15TH AND 16TH STREET IN MERCED

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform a
full closure of State Route 59/V Street between 15th Street and 16th Street in Merced as
Union Pacific Railroad makes repairs and improvements to the railroad crossing.
Closure details are as follows:
• Full closure of SR-59/V Street between 15th Street and 16th Street beginning
Thursday, June 18 at 7:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2020.
DETOUR INFORMATION:
• Motorists are advised to exit State Route 99 at R Street and use R Street as the
detour route
Motorists should expect 5-minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever
possible.
This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic
incidents, weather, availability of equipment, and/or materials and construction related
issues.

May 23, 2020

City offices closed for Memorial Day holiday

Offices for the City of Merced will be closed Monday, May 25, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday.
There will be no trash collection on Monday. All refuse collection will be delayed one day during the week.
During the coronavirus pandemic, people are reminded they should still observe social distancing guidelines, even on holiday weekends.
City parks are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., but users are cautioned against holding large gatherings. Park restrooms are closed, as are other park facilities including playgrounds and picnic shelters, per the State and County orders.

May 23, 2020

California High-Speed Rail Extends Public Review Period and Changes Public Hearing Format for the San Jose to Merced Project Section

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Today the California High-Speed Rail Authority (Authority) announced the public review period for the San Jose to Merced Draft Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Impact Statement (EIR/EIS) has been extended. The public review period previously scheduled to end on June 8, 2020 has been extended by 15 days to Tuesday, June 23, 2020. The Authority also announced that it will transition from an in-person public hearing on May 27, 2020 to a “virtual” public hearing format.

In response to agency and stakeholder requests in consideration of limitations caused by the outbreak of COVID-19, the Authority has elected to extend the public review period for the Draft EIR/EIS to provide additional time for review and comments.

The public hearing for the San Jose to Merced Project Section Draft EIR/EIS will be held via teleconference and online video conference, rather than in-person meeting. The virtual public hearing will include a webcast and moderated call-in number for the public to submit oral comments. The date and time of the public hearing remain the same. Interpretation will be available in Spanish, Mandarin, and Vietnamese. This is the only opportunity to provide oral comment on the Draft EIR/EIS.

San Jose to Merced Draft EIR/EIS Virtual Public Hearing
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

To view a live stream of the public hearing, please visit http://videossc.com/HSR/

The public can provide comments by joining the webinar at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82252284338?pwd=TWZHSnBhMlRWdGhXYnVwV05ReUgwUT09 or by phone by dialing (669) 900-9128 and entering the webinar ID: 822 5228 4338.

The public can continue to submit comments on the San Jose to Merced Draft EIR/EIS the following ways:
• Via web comment form on the Authority’s website: www.hsr.ca.gov/programs/environmental/eis_eir/draft_san_jose_merced_comment.aspx
• Via email to San.Jose_Merced@hsr.ca.gov with the subject line “Draft EIR/EIS Comment”
• Via conventional mail at the address below:
Attn: San Jose to Merced: Draft EIR/EIS
California High-Speed Rail Authority
100 Paseo de San Antonio, Suite 300
San Jose, CA 95113

After the comment period closes on June 23, 2020 and the comments received have been evaluated, staff will prepare and issue the Final EIR/EIS document and present it to the Board to consider certification and project approval under the California Environmental Quality Act and National Environmental Policy Act.

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being or have been carried out by the State of California pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated July 23, 2019, and executed by the Federal Railroad Administration and the State of California.

To view the contents of the Draft EIR/EIS, please visit: www.hsr.ca.gov/programs/environmental/eis_eir/draft_san_jose_merced.aspx

May 22, 2020

Only a Few Weekends Left to Get Your Fair Food Fix at the Merced County Fair’s “Fair Food Fridays!”
Get Your Fair Food Fix and Support Valley Food Vendors in May and June

MERCED, CALIFORNIA – May 21, 2020: The Merced County Fair and Valley fair food vendors have gained much success with the new “Fair Food Fridays” event at the Merced County Fairgrounds! The event series launched on Friday, May 1, drawing lines of cars all waiting to get their fair food favorites like corn dogs, kettle corn, Icees and cotton candy at special pandemic pricing. Although this event draws a long line of cars, last week’s event got people through in less than 30 minutes!

Here’s a list what’s on the menu:

$5 Corn Dogs
$5 ICEE in souvenir cup with straw - 32 oz.
$3 Cotton Candy
$6 Small Kettle Corn
$10 Large Kettle Corn
$7 Caramel Kettle Corn
$5 French Bread Pepperoni Pizza
$8 Funnel cake w/powdered sugar
$9 Funnel Cake w/ fruit and whip cream
$10 Funnel Cake w/the chocolate, fruit, whip cream
$25 (6) Pack Frozen or Hot Cinnamon Roll with frosting on the side

Despite the recent cancellation of the 2020 Merced County Fair, CEO Teresa Burrola wanted to bring the taste of the fair for the community to still enjoy, while supporting the fair’s Valley food vendors and their families who have been hit hard by COVID-19 and widespread cancellation of fairs and events throughout the state.

“We wanted to bring something positive to the fairgrounds and give the community something fun to do while still aligning with the pandemic guidelines,” said Burrola. “So we came up with the idea to have a drive-thru food event! It has definitely put a smile on people’s faces and our food vendors could not be more thankful for the support. We look forward to continuing our ‘Fair Food Fridays’ throughout the month and into June.”

The Merced County Fair’s “Fair Food Fridays” is a drive-thru, to-go only food event with special pandemic pricing. This event is cash only, with the exception of Country Fair Cinnamon Rolls who will accept card. For more details, call (209) 722-1506 or visit www.mercedcountyfair.com/fair-food-fridays.

WHEN: 11:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
May 22 and 29; June 5, 11-13.

May 22, 2020

Gray’s Veteran Employment Bill Advances with Unanimous Bipartisan Support

(Sacramento) – A bill to increase job opportunities for veterans and military spouses has cleared its first committee hearing with unanimous bipartisan support.

Assembly Bill 3045, authored by Assemblymember Adam Gray (D-Merced), requires the California Department of Consumer Affairs to grant professional licenses to veterans and military spouses who hold an equivalent license in another state. The bill would streamline the licensing process for hundreds of state-regulated professions from appliance and automotive repair to construction and security officers.

“California is home to more veterans than any other state in America, yet we routinely lag behind in our treatment and accommodation of veterans and their families,” said Assemblymember Gray.

After introducing a similar measure, Assemblymembers Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) and James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) agreed to unite with Assemblymember Gray and consolidate their efforts behind AB 3045.

“Supporting our veterans is not a Democrat or Republican issue, it’s an American issue. Working across party lines only increases our odds of success,” said Assemblymember Gray, whose district includes the former Castle Air Force Base in Atwater.

Gray’s legislation is strongly supported by numerous veterans organizations including the US Department of Defense, the American Legion, AMVETS, the California State Commanders Veterans Council, and the Military Officers Association of America.

“The patchwork of licensing requirements and regulations that exist in all 50 states harms the veterans and military families who want to work in California,” said Assemblymember Gray. “Other states have agreements in place to allow license portability when veterans and their spouses move between states, but California has not made similar accommodations. That’s ridiculous. We need laws that help bring veterans move into our state instead of keeping them out.

“Especially as we enter what is likely to be a period of economic hardship, we must do all we can to support employment opportunities for veterans and their spouses. Frankly, it’s the least we can do to acknowledge their service and sacrifice.”

AB 3045 now moves on to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for consideration at a hearing to be scheduled later this month.

# # #

Assemblymember Adam C. Gray represents the 21st Assembly District which includes all of Merced County and portions of Stanislaus County.

May 22, 2020

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP & LANE CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 - FROM ATWATER BOULEVARD TO
MERCED/STANISLAUS COUNTY LINE

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform various ramp closures on State Route (SR-99) for maintenance and construction work.
(No work will occur on Monday, May 25, 2020 due to the Memorial Day Weekend.)
Closures are as follows:
• Full on and off-ramp closures at Atwater Boulevard on southbound SR-99
beginning Thursday, May 28, through Saturday, May 30, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full off-ramp closure from northbound SR-99 to East Atwater Overhead beginning Wednesday, May 28, through Saturday, May 30, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 at
Applegate Road beginning Thursday, May 28, through Saturday, May 30, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full on-ramp closure from West Atwater Overhead to northbound SR-99
beginning Wednesday, May 28, through Saturday, May 30, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Alternating closures of the #1 (left) and #2 (right) lanes of northbound SR-99 from Hammatt Avenue to the Merced/Stanislaus County line for grinding operations beginning Tuesday, May 26, through Friday, May 29, 2020, from 8:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

Motorists should expect 10-minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.
This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment, and/or materials and construction related issues.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

May 21, 2020

Merced County Department of Public Health Attestation Approved to Move into Stage 2.5

MERCED COUNTY, CA – The Department of Public Health (Department) is pleased to announce that Merced County is now approved to move more quickly through Stage 2 of California’s Roadmap for reopening. The approval is posted on the California Department of Public Health website and is available for public review at: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/County_Variance_Attestation_Form.aspx

“We are pleased that several businesses will return to a new sense of normalcy,” said Dr. Salvador Sandoval, Merced County’s Public Health Officer. “As we prepare to move forward and start to slowly re-open, it is imperative that we all follow the safety measures in place. This is a new normal and the County cannot afford to let its guard down. The Department is committed to the health and safety of each individual in our County. This disease remains prevalent in our community.”

May 21, 2020

The reality is schools will look different this fall.
To maintain social distance in our schools, we will have to be flexible in our thinking and offer options to parents and students. Some students will attend school, some will continue with distance learning and some might work in a blended model of attending on specific days.
Some children need the support of a daily school experience. Some children can thrive at home while they learn at their own rate, but need content direction from education professionals. We are working to identify ways all students can succeed while keeping everyone on our campuses safe.
There have been questions about graduations in June and schools are identifying unique ways to honor graduating classes without the traditional commencement.
We have worked closely with our partners at the Merced County Department of Public Health to review different graduation scenarios and we know that the gathering of large crowds still endangers our children.
Simply put: In the current situation we cannot hold mass gatherings.
There will be time again in the future to celebrate the accomplishments of our children without putting them and their families at risk of infection and causing a spike in the virus that would cause us to delay the reopening of our public schools.
As an educator of nearly 40 years, I understand how difficult this is for our students and families and we hope that we can celebrate our graduates in a more traditional way.

Steve M. Tietjen, Ed.D.
Merced County Superintendent of Schools

May 19, 2020

Bulky Item Drop-Off Site re-opening

The Bulky Item Drop-Off Site on the corner of Hwy. 59 and Yosemite Ave. will be open Thursdays and Fridays from noon to 3 p.m.

The Bulky Item Drop-Off is for City Of Merced residential refuse service customers only. No commercial sources, such as apartment complexes or businesses are allowed. Verification of service, such as a utility bill, will need to be provided with matching ID at check-in.

This is for bulky items such as furniture and mattresses. No general household waste, green waste or hazardous waste will be accepted. For more information, call 209-385-6800.

May 16, 2020

Budget on agenda for in-person Council meeting

The City Council will hold its first public in-person meeting Monday since March to discuss the 2020-21 budget.

City Manager Steve Carrigan is proposing a $265.3 million budget, an increase of $10.8 million from last year to reflect the expansion of housing developments and the need to renovate and expand water and sewer services. The general fund budget is $43.9 million, a slight increase related to the $2 million Redevelopment Agency settlement payment that is the second of five payments.

The budget does not include any layoffs, but will delete one position and keep five other positions vacant. In addition, Department expenses were held to last year’s levels, and $1.1 million in one-time revenues were used to balance the general fund budget.

The meeting will be held Monday, May 18, in the Council Chambers on the second floor of the Merced Civic Center (City Hall), 678 W. 18th St.

It will be broadcast at 6 p.m. Monday on Facebook Live at City of Merced, on the City’s website, www.cityofmerced.org, and Comcast Public Access Channel 96. A link to the live meeting is on the City’s website at https://cityofmerced.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. Videos of previous meetings can be found at that link, and are tied to each agenda item. The Council agenda is posted online at www.cityofmerced.org.

In-person Council Meetings will have strict social distancing practices in place and the use of
face coverings is encouraged. Seating in the Council Chamber will be limited and an overflow
room will be available in the Sam Pipes Room with the same social distancing practices in place.

• Members of the audience who wish to address the City Council are requested to complete a speaker card available at the podium on the right-hand side of the Council Chamber. Please submit the completed card to the City Clerk before the item is called, preferably before the meeting begins.

• For at-risk individuals or those not wanting to attend an in-person meeting during the current COVID-19 pandemic, please submit your public comment to the City Council electronically no later than 1 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Comments received before the deadline will be read as part of the record. Material may be emailed to cityclerk@cityofmerced.org and should be limited

• You may provide telephonic comments via voicemail by calling (209) 388-8688 by no later than 1 p.m. on the day of the meeting to be added to the public comment. Voicemails will be limited to a time limit of three (3) minutes. Please specify which portion of the agenda you are commenting on, for example:, Public Hearing item number, Consent item number, or Oral Communications. Your comments will be played during the meeting to the City Council at the appropriate time.

To view video (if available) or listen to the City Council meeting live, go to the City’s website
www.cityofmerced.org, Facebook Live, or Comcast Public Access Channel 96.

Accommodation for individuals with disabilities may be arranged by contacting the City Clerk at
(209) 388-8650. Assisted hearing devices are available for meetings held in the Council
Chamber.

At least 72 hours prior to each regular City Council meeting, a complete agenda packet is
available for review on the City’s website at www.cityofmerced.org or at the City Clerk’s Office,
678 W. 18th St. All public records relating to an open session item that are distributed to a majority of the Council will be available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office during regular business hours. Spanish and Hmong translation is available at every regular meeting.

The City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month, except when there is a holiday, then it meets the following day.

May 16, 2020

County Partners Provide Homeless Support Amidst the Pandemic

MERCED COUNTY, CA –In an effort to protect vulnerable homeless individuals from COVID-19 and slow the spread of the virus in our communities, 98 homeless individuals have been sheltered in hotel rooms in Merced County. This statewide initiative is known as “Project Room Key.”
Merced County allocated $3.5 million in funding to address housing, health care, toiletries and food needs for unsheltered individuals who test positive for COVID-19. In addition, services are available to those who have symptoms and require isolation based on medical advice, and those that are medically vulnerable and highly susceptible to the virus. The funding, originally allocated to address homelessness, was made available through a partnership between the Merced County Continuum of Care, Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, Human Services Agency and funds provided by state and federal COVID-19 response allocations. No General Fund dollars are included in this effort.
In addition to the nearly 100 individuals housed, staff with the Mass Care and Shelter Branch and community organizations have contacted more than 300 homeless individuals to provide immediate services, including food and other essential items and services.
Housing and health care services are provided on a priority basis, but food and toiletries are available to all.
The program was coordinated locally by the Merced County Human Services Agency, the Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Department, Merced County Department of Public Health, and community partners comprised of faith-based and non-profit organizations.

“We are taking a multi-agency approach to engaging with unsheltered homeless individuals and identifying those who need services and medical follow-ups due to COVID-19,” said Yvonnia Brown, Director of the Merced County Human Services Agency. “These efforts will not only provide much needed assistance to those individuals, it will also help contain the spread of COVID-19 within the community at large.”
“We are excited about being a part of a program that is providing basic needs for individuals with some of the greatest need,” said Dr. Rebecca Nanyonjo-Kemp, Director of the Merced County Department of Public Health. “We care about the health and safety of all residents, including the most vulnerable in our community. This project highlights how Merced County is advocating for the well-being of homeless individuals by providing some of the most basic vital needs. It is our hope that this project will be successful in slowing the spread of COVID-19 in our community.”
Please check the Department’s webpage at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus for the most-up-to date information about the current cases in Merced County.
For general information pertaining to COVID-19, please contact the Merced County Public Health Department information line at 209-381-1180 (English, Spanish, Hmong).

May 16, 2020

SEASONAL ROUTES ON STATE HIGHWAYS IN THE CENTRAL SIERRA OPEN FOR SUMMER SEASON

Stay-At-Home Order Remains In Effect Alpine, Tuolumne, Mono and Inyo Counties – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) announced today it has opened seasonal highways in the Sierra after completing necessary road repairs and removing winter snow and debris in preparation for the summer season.
The opening of the Sierra routes comes at a time when California’s “stay-at- home” order remains in effect until further notice. All Californians are reminded that it is critical to stay home during this time in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, social distancing behaviors and other preventive measures as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and the California Department of Public Health help protect the health and well-being of everyone. #StayHomeSaveLives
A comprehensive update on the status of the seasonal passes is listed below:
• State Route 4 (Ebbetts Pass) Open for the summer season
• State Route 89 (Monitor Pass) Open for the summer season
• State Route 108 (Sonora Pass) Open for the summer season
• State Route 120 (Tuolumne County) Open for the summer season. Yosemite National Park remains closed at this time. National Park Service officials manage Tioga Road inside Yosemite National Park. Please call the Park Service for updates at: (209) 372-0200
• State Route 120 (Mono County) Open for the summer season. Yosemite National Park remains closed at this time. National Park Service officials manage Tioga Road inside Yosemite National Park. Please call the Park Service for updates at: (209) 372-0200
• State Route 158 Open for the summer season
• State Route 168 West (Bishop Creek) Open for the summer season

For the latest road condition information, call the Caltrans Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). Real time conditions are also available online and for mobile phones at http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov. Changeable Message Signs with flashing beacons will have information regarding the pass closures visible along the highways.
Early season conditions exist and road conditions can change rapidly. All vehicles, including those with four-wheel drive or snow tires should, additionally, carry chains when traveling during the spring season. There are minimal services available and limited mobile phone service along the high elevations of these Sierra routes. Visitors are advised to have a full tank of gas and to carry extra food, water and clothing to be prepared for emergencies.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP & LANE CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 - FROM ATWATER BOULEVARD TO
MERCED/STANISLAUS COUNTY LINE

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform various ramp closures on State Route (SR-99) for maintenance and construction work.
Closures are as follows:
• Full on and off-ramp closures at Atwater Boulevard on southbound SR-99
beginning Sunday, May 17, through Saturday, May 23, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full off-ramp closure from northbound SR-99 to East Atwater Overhead beginning Sunday, May 17, through Saturday, May 23, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 at
Applegate Road beginning Sunday, May 17, through Saturday, May 23, 2020,
from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full on-ramp closure from West Atwater Overhead to northbound SR-99
beginning Sunday, May 17, through Saturday, May 23, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until southbound SR-99 for landscape work beginning Tuesday, May 19, through Thursday, May 21, 2020, from 7:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.
• Alternating closures of the #1 (left) and #2 (right) lanes of northbound SR-99 from Hammatt Avenue to the Merced/Stanislaus County line for grinding operations beginning Sunday, May 17, through Friday, May 22, 2020, from 8:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

May 14, 2020

Infant Tests Positive for COVID-19

MERCED COUNTY, CA – Merced County health officials confirmed its first infant-related COVID-19 exposure case in Merced County.
Health officials confirmed that a five-month-old infant recently tested positive for the virus. The infant is doing well and recovering at home. Due to protected health information requirements and to maintain the patient’s confidentiality, Public Health is not able to disclose further information about this case.
County Public Health officials have noticed an increase in children’s cases over the past two weeks. There have been nine confirmed cases of children under 18 years of age, making it 12 confirmed cases to date (a four-fold increase in two weeks). Pediatric cases have increased from 3% of the caseload to 7% of the caseload. As of May 13, 2020, there are 180 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 67 of which are active cases, 109 recovered and four deaths. This is an increase of 49 cases within a two-week span for the County.
“This case highlights the importance of following local health orders and practicing safety measures in our daily routines,” said Merced County Public Health Officer Dr. Salvador Sandoval. “It is crucial that we protect the vulnerable populations in our community, which includes young children. Now is not the time to become complacent. Transmission levels will continue to rise and will affect our loved ones unless we make a difference by doing our part.”

.As the spread of COVID-19 continues to increase locally, Merced County health officials strongly urge the community to continue following health orders and exercising the following measures to help slow the spread of the virus:
EVERYONE SHOULD:
* Stay home, especially if you’re sick
* Limit your time and trips out of your home
* Wear a cloth face covering when you leave home; particularly when social distancing is not possible, as in enclosed places.
* Practice social distancing, which means keeping at least 6 feet between you and any person when outside of your home
* Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds as often as possible
* Not touch your eyes, nose or mouth
* Call your health care provider first if you think you have COVID-19
All Merced County residents interested in being tested for COVID-19, can register for an appointment online at www.lhi.care/covidtesting.
For additional information pertaining to COVID-19, please visit the Department’s resource website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus or call the Department information line at 209-381-1180 (English, Spanish, Hmong).
To schedule a phone interview, please contact the Public Health Communication Office from Monday—Friday, 8 a.m.—5 p.m. at 209-381-1187.

May 13, 2020

Health Officials Confirm Fourth Death Related to COVID-19 in Merced County

MERCED COUNTY, CA – Today, the Merced County Department of Public Health (Department) confirmed the fourth death related to COVID-19, otherwise known as novel coronavirus. The Merced County resident was a male over the age of 65 with underlying health conditions.
“We are saddened by the confirmation of another death in our community due to COVID-19, and the Department sends its deepest condolences to the family,” said Merced County Public Health Officer Dr. Salvador Sandoval. “We want to remind the residents of Merced County that we must remain united in preventing the spread of this disease. Please do your part to halt the spread.”
Merced County health officials strongly urge everyone to continue following local health orders and practicing safety measures in daily routines.

It is crucial that residents do not become complacent, or transmission levels could increase. Please exercise the following measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
EVERYONE SHOULD:
* Stay home, especially if you’re sick
* Limit your time and trips out of your home
* Wear a cloth face covering when you leave home; particularly when social distancing is not possible, as in enclosed places.
* Practice social distancing, which means keeping at least 6 feet between you and any person when outside of your home
* Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds as often as possible
* Not touch your eyes, nose or mouth
* Call your health care provider first if you think you have COVID-19
All Merced County residents interested in being tested for COVID-19 can register for an appointment online at www.lhi.care/covidtesting.
For additional information pertaining to COVID-19, please visit the Department’s resource website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus or call the Department information line at 209-381-1180 (English, Spanish, Hmong).
To schedule a phone interview, please contact the Public Health Communication Office from Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.—5 p.m. at 209-381-1187.

May12, 2020

California Employers Association - FREE! The Three R's to Getting Back to Work During COVID-19

Worknet Merced County has partnered with the California Employers Association (CEA) to provide Merced County businesses with ongoing training opportunities. Let the CEA help you prepare to get employees back to work when operations can resume during the COVID-19 pandemic. CEA will cover the 3 R's of how to plan and successfully bring your employees back to work – Reconstruct, Reinstate, and Reconnect.

Learning Objectives:
• Reconstruct — Determine what your workplace will look like under this "new normal." Learn how to bring people back and what to do if some of the workforce cannot be reinstated.
• Reinstate — Evaluate the effectiveness of remote work for your team and if it can or should continue. Be prepared for a variety of federal, state, and local requirements regarding testing employees, PPE, physical distancing and more.
• Reconnect — How to welcome employees back and ensure a safe working environment.

The webinar will take place Wednesday, May 13th, from 12:00pm-1:00pm.

Registration Link: https://www.employers.org/events/webinars/the-three-r-s-to-getting-back-to-work-during-covid-19/05/13/2020/

Mario Pena
Worknet Merced County
Merced County Dept. of Workforce Investment
1205 West 18th Street | Merced, CA 95340
P: 209.724.2046 |C: 209.291.8969 | F: 209.725.3592
Visit our website at https://worknetmerced.com

May 9, 2020

Merced City offices begin to reopen

Employees who have been working remotely will be returning to their offices Monday, May 11, as the City of Merced prepares to resume operations with the public.

The goal is to open up City Hall -- the Merced Civic Center at 678 W. 18th St. -- to the public on Monday, May 18. Other City facilities, including the Police Department and Public Works, will also open to the public on that date. The Parks and Recreation Office will open at a later date.

“With the governor reopening many businesses in the state, it is time to begin moving the City in the same direction,” said City Manager Steve Carrigan. “We are opening City offices with the health and safety of everyone -- City employees and the public -- as the top priority.”

“This is a limited opening, because employee wellness is really important to me,” Carrigan said.

It won’t be business as usual, as a variety of social distancing measures are being put in place at City facilities.

Initially, only counter service on the first and second floors will be available at City Hall. Other City business will be conducted by telephone, email or video conference.

City facilities were shut down to the public and employees began working remotely March 20 to comply with the governor’s stay-at-home order. Normal operations of police, fire, refuse, sewer or water were not affected, and most City functions continued.

The move follows Gov. Gavin Newsom’s modification of the stay-at-home order of Thursday, May 7. That moved the state to Stage 2, allowing the reopening of some non-essential businesses with modifications.

City Council meetings, along with board and commission meetings, will continue to meet virtually and telephonically.

Parks are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. to encourage people to get exercise and fresh air, but users are cautioned to maintain social distance. Park restrooms are closed, as are other park facilities including playgrounds and picnic shelters, per the state and county orders.

The air carrier for the Merced Regional Airport, Boutique Airlines, has been operating and the airport is open to general aviation users.

Even though the building is open next week, City customers won’t have to come to City Hall to make payments. Customers can make payments:
• By using the automated phone system at 209-388-7289
• Paying online at www.cityofmerced.org
• Using the drop box outside City Hall (check, cashier’s check or money order, no cash, please)
• Mailing payments (check, cashier’s check or money order, no cash, please)

Questions about utility bills can be emailed to utilitybillinquiry@cityofmerced.org or people can phone 209-385-6841.

The City will not be charging people late fees and no new water services will be shut off if people cannot make their payments while the state of emergency is declared. However, they still will be ultimately responsible for the payment of all bills once the emergency order is lifted.

May 9, 2020

Revised Health Order Allows for More Businesses to Reopen

MERCED COUNTY, CA – After careful consideration, Merced County health officials revised the local Health Order (Order) issued on April 24, 2020. The revised Order allows eligible businesses to resume modified operations as long as they follow specific safety measures.
“After careful consideration and thorough discussions with subject matter experts and Merced County health officials, the Public Health Department is starting to implement steps to reopen the County,” said Dr. Rebecca Nanyonjo-Kemp, Director of the Merced County Public Health Department. “The reopening plan will promote public health and safety while allowing for our community to take the necessary steps to start the recovery process. The Department is committed to the well-being of all individuals and want the overall health and economy to thrive while keeping protective measures in place.”
Businesses meeting criteria may resume modified operations. Currently, in accordance with the State, curbside retail and manufacturing of goods are able to open. In addition, cemeteries, preventative medical appointments (inclusive of dentistry), and baptisms are all allowed to reopen or resume, with modifications. All businesses in operation will be required to follow the Order, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, and the guidelines outlined in the Order. Merced County also developed reopening guidelines in partnership with business sectors. The Order also allows additional businesses to open locally, with modified operations, as the State allows.

The revised Order:
* Directs all businesses open to operate to designate a Safety Officer
* Prohibits all non-essential gatherings (as detailed in the Order)
* Limits activities in public areas
* Encourages outdoor activity with social distancing requirements to the greatest extent possible
Merced County health officials strongly urge everyone to continue following local health orders and practice safety measures in our daily routines. It is crucial that we do not become complacent, because transmission levels will continue to rise.
If you are a Merced County resident who would like to be tested for COVID-19, you will need to register for an appointment either online at www.lhi.care/covidtesting or by phone 1-888-634-1123.
For additional information pertaining to COVID-19, please visit the Department’s resource website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus or call the Department information line at 209-381-1180 (English, Spanish, Hmong).

Click here to see Revised Order

May 8, 2020

Work Continues on 2020 Merced County Fair Virtual Livestock Sale
Community support already pouring in; Friends of the Merced County Fair to underwrite all sale commissions and the first $10,000 add-on donation received

MERCED, CALIFORNIA, May 7, 2020 – Plans continue to move forward on the 2020 Merced County Fair Virtual Livestock Sale, supported by Merced Irrigation District (MID), to support the more than 500 Merced County Fair 4-H and FFA exhibitors through the utilization of the StockShowAuctions.com (SSA) online sales platform. The virtual sale will take place starting Thursday, June 11 at 8 a.m. and go until Saturday, June 13 at 8 p.m. Buyers, both past and new, will need to register as a buyer on www.stockshowauction.com/register either in advance of the sale or during, then they can login during the sale and place bids, add-ons and receive notifications if they get outbid. Merced County Fair livestock staff will be available to answer questions at livestock@countyofmerced.com or (209) 722-1421. Additionally, step-by-step instructions have been posted on the fair’s website (www.mercedcountyfair.com/livestock-exhibits).
“Agriculture has long been the backbone of the Merced County Fair and while today's world with COVID-19 is prohibiting us from having our annual fair, it won’t stop us from holding a sale for our hard-working 4-H and FFA exhibitors. I look forward to their innovative outreach in securing buyers for our new virtual livestock sale,” said Teresa Burrola, CEO of the Merced County Fair.
There is already one local business stepping up to support the exhibitors in the Merced County Fair Virtual Livestock Sale. Dr. J.L. Byerly D.V.M. owner of Sierra Gateway Veterinary Clinic has donated $10,000 towards add-ons to support those exhibitors who do not receive adequate bids on their projects.
Dr. Byerly said he “is hopeful that our community will help to support our 4-H and FFA exhibitors in buying their animal projects or placing add-on bids. It is a real call to action for our agricultural community to step up for our youth in Merced County.”
Additionally, the fair’s non-profit foundation, Friends of the Merced County Fair has committed to covering the costs of the online sale platform, as well as all sale commissions – so every dollar spent by buyers will go directly to the students.
“We are so grateful for Friends of the Merced County Fair who have always greatly supported our annual auctions and through this latest act of generosity – it will put every dollar bid during the virtual sale into the pockets of these kids to use to recoup their animal project expenses and invest in their next project or save for school,” said Burrola.

Merced County Fair 4-H and FFA exhibitors who submitted animal projects will be contacted by the Livestock Department regarding the virtual sale with more details and resources. Exhibitors will need to continue feeding and caring for their animals and marketing to secure buyers, just like they would if their animals were going to the traditional auction. The Merced County Fair has put together exhibitor information sheets by species and an extensive Q&A so they can better understand the new sale process. These resources are available at www.mercedcountyfair.com/livestock-exhibits. More information such as step-by-step instructions on how to upload their project for the online sale will be posted in the coming weeks. These details are also available on the SSA website at www.stockshowauction.com/auctions. Additionally, the Livestock Department will be available to assist with online registration and address questions at livestock@countyofmerced.com or (209) 722-1421.
Each year, the livestock competition at the Fair helps to create the next generation of men and women in agriculture and by participating, 4-H, FFA and Independent students not only have the opportunity to showcase and sell their animal projects, they also learn responsibility and gain agribusiness experience. While this year looks different, the life and business skills gained through these experiences – and even more so with the adaptation to an online sale – will continue to serve these youth.
About The Merced County Fair:
The Merced County Fair, first founded in 1891, represents the 35th District Agricultural Association. The fair’s mission statement outlines that it “promises to meet the needs of our community by providing a fun, safe venue to celebrate our area’s agricultural heritage, discover new technology and be entertained.” Each June, the Merced County Fair welcomes more than 70,000 people from throughout Merced County and beyond to attend the five-day event. Members of the Board of Directors include: President, Carol Sartori-Silva; First Vice President, Lee Lor; Second Vice President, Kim Rogina; Vicky Banaga; Mark Erreca; Lori Gallo; Emily Haden; Flip Hassett; and Luis Lara. Teresa Burrola heads up the daily operations in her role as CEO. The 2021 Merced County Fair will run June 9 - 13. For more information about the Merced County Fair, please visit www.MercedCountyFair.com. Connect with the Fair on Facebook (@mercedfair), Twitter (@Merced_CA_Fair) and Instagram (@mercedcountyfair).

May 8, 2020

Rosa Barragan, program manager with the MCOE Early Education Department, said these are additional child care slots due to the COVID-19 pandemic and encourages families to apply. Her office is working to get the word out to businesses and the 20 local school districts serving Merced County.
“These are new funds, for families meeting the eligibility criteria, to help pay for child care. MCOE Child Care Resource and Referral is updating child care supply at least twice a week. We also provide child care referrals to licensed child care providers; we are calling it an enhanced referral,” Hendricks said.
Barragan said there are 169 family child care providers and 11 centers open, ready to serve the children of essential workers. MCOE works with the California Department of Social Services, which handles community care licensing, and are all working closely with child care providers to ensure they are following the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and best practices put in place by CDSS to ensure the child care environments are safe and minimize the spread of COVID-19.
For more information, call MCOE at (209) 381-4585 or email childcare@mcoe.org

May 8, 2020

TRAFFIC ADVISORY
RAMP CLOSURES
STATE ROUTE 99 - FROM CHILDS AVENUE TO ATWATER BOULEVARD

MERCED COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform various ramp closures on State Route (SR-99) for maintenance and construction work.
Closures are as follows:
• Full off-ramp closure from southbound SR-99 to Childs Avenue beginning
Monday, May 11, through Tuesday, May 12, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m.
• Full off-ramp closure from northbound SR-99 to SR-140 beginning Thursday, May 14, through Friday, May 15, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m.
• Full on-ramp closure from 16th Street to southbound SR-99 beginning Monday, May 11, through Tuesday, May 12, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m.
• Full on and off-ramp closures at Atwater Boulevard on northbound and
southbound SR-99 beginning Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full off-ramp closure from northbound SR-99 to East Atwater Overhead beginning Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full on and off-ramp closures on northbound and southbound SR-99 at
Applegate Road beginning Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, 2020,
from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
• Full on-ramp closure from West Atwater Overhead to northbound SR-99
beginning Sunday, May 10, through Saturday, May 16, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

Motorists should expect 10-minute delays. Alternate routes should be taken whenever possible.
This work is scheduled to begin as listed, but is subject to change due to traffic incidents, weather, availability of equipment, and/or materials and construction related issues.

For the safety of workers and other motorists,please Slow For the Cone Zone.

May 7 , 2020

Castle Air Museum Reopening to the Public

Friday, May 8, the Castle Air Museum, 5050 Santa Fe Drive in Atwater will be one of the first air museum's in California to reopen it's gates to public admission for the first time in nearly two months due to the COVID 19 Pandemic. We are elated to be able to welcome back all of our visitors from our communities, region, state, nation, and world to once again walk through our doors, roam our expansive outdoor exhits area and witness where History Has Landed! Since the Museum is an outdoor venue our destination is well suited for social distancing, all the while being in awe at the size and scope of the largest military aviation museum on the West Coast!! Welcome back!! And Come be Amazed!!!

We feel that May 8th is a very fitting date to reopen, as this date also commemorates VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day 75 years ago, marking the end of World War II on the European Continent.

For more information please contact me at the information below. Thank you for your support!

Joe Pruzzo
Executive Director
Castle Air Museum
209.723.2178 Main Ext. 304
209.723.0323 Fax
www.castleairmuseum.org

May 7 , 2020

MERCED COUNTY, CITIES PREPARE FOR REOPENING OF
ECONOMY

MERCED— Merced County and its six Cities are committed to reopening our local economy in the safest way possible and as quickly as possible.

That’s why today, we launched www.reopenmercedcounty.com—a new website dedicated to assisting businesses and preparing them for when the State decides to open additional factions of the economy.

The site includes resources, guidelines, event information, and a survey local businesses can take that will allow the County and Cities to gather details that will help us apply for grants and identify needs in the business community.

“The idea of this site is to get our business owners better prepared to reopen when that time comes,” said Chairman Rodrigo Espinoza of the Merced County Board of Supervisors. “When the Governor pulls the trigger to reopen another group of businesses, we don’t want them all at the starting line, we want them as close to the finish line as possible.”

This website will be continuously updated moving forward as the State releases additional information and as more resources become available through local, State and Federal programming.

It was earlier this week that Governor Newsom announced that the State can begin moving into “Stage 2” of modifying the “Stay at Home” Executive Order beginning this Friday if certain conditions are met. This move, which is based on improving COVID-19 numbers and health indicators, will allow some retailers to reopen with modifications, such as curbside pickup. This includes bookstores, music stores, toy stores, florists, sporting goods stores, and others. More specifics as well as guidelines will be released by the Governor’s Office later this week.

It’s important to note that local entities (such as Merced County and its Cities) must operate within the confines of the Governor’s Executive Order and cannot supersede its directives. Any business operating within a City that has taken stricter measures than the County or State directives must adhere to the stricter measures. As the Governor opens various parts of the economy, Merced County Public Health will continue to issue guidance documents to ensure our business community can reopen in a timely manner.

For additional information about COVID-19 in Merced County, please visit www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus.

May 6, 2020

Merced County Fair Launches ‘Fair Food Fridays’ Drive-Thru Fair Food Event Series
Get Your Fair Food Fix and Support Valley Food Vendors in May and June

MERCED, CALIFORNIA – May 5, 2020: The Merced County Fair has teamed up with Valley fair food vendors to bring the new drive-thru “Fair Food Fridays” event to the Merced County Fairgrounds! The event series launched on Friday, May 1, drawing lines of cars all waiting to get their fair food favorites like corn dogs, kettle corn, Icees and cotton candy at special pandemic pricing.
Despite the recent cancellation of the 2020 Merced County Fair, CEO Teresa Burrola wanted to bring the taste of the fair for the community to still enjoy, while supporting the fair’s Valley food vendors and their families who have been hit hard by COVID-19 and widespread cancellation of fairs and events throughout the state.
“We wanted to bring something positive to the fairgrounds and give the community something fun to do while still aligning with the pandemic guidelines,” said Burrola. “So we came up with the idea to have a drive-thru food event! It has definitely put a smile on people’s faces and our food vendors could not be more thankful for the support. We look forward to continuing our ‘Fair Food Fridays’ throughout the month and into June.”
The Merced County Fair’s “Fair Food Fridays” is a drive-thru, to-go only food event with special pandemic pricing. This event is cash only to keep the lines moving as quickly as possible.

The line-up has now been expanded to include cinnamon rolls, funnel cake and pizza, along with the corn dogs, kettle corn, Icees and cotton candy. For more details, call (209) 722-1506 or visit www.mercedcountyfair.com/fair-food-fridays.

WHEN: 11:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. May 8, 15, 22 and 29; June 5, 11-13.
WHERE: Merced County Fairgrounds, 900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Merced, California 95341
Enter the fairgrounds from 11th Street and exit on Childs Avenue

May 5 , 2020

COVID-19 Testing Available to All Merced County Residents

MERCED COUNTY, CA—On Monday, an additional COVID-19 testing site will open to all Merced County residents who would like to be tested. PLEASE NOTE: Due to expected high demand, testing availability was changed to by appointment only in order to prevent unnecessarily-long wait times for clients. Walk-ins will not be accepted at this time.
* Registration is available online or by phone:
* www.lhi.care/covidtesting
* 1-888-634-1123
This new test site, which was made possible thanks to a partnership with the State of California and OptumServe (a private health services company contracted by the State), will be one of 80 locations across the State and will allow for more than 100 additional tests a day for the community. The site does not include antibody testing at this time.
Appointments at the testing site will be scheduled Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Merced County Fairgrounds located at 900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Merced.

A soft opening of the site was held Thursday and Friday and provided testing for first responders, health care personnel, and a limited number of individuals from the public.
For additional information pertaining to COVID-19, please visit the Department’s resource website at www.countyofmerced.com/coronavirus or call the Merced County Public Health Department Information Line at 209-381-1180 (English, Spanish, Hmong).
For additional information, read Governor Newsom’s announcement about the efforts to expand community testing in underserved areas.

May 5 , 2020

The Bus welcomes First Transit as new operator for
countywide transit services

MERCED – On May 1, 2020, First Transit, Inc. (First Transit) became the new operations and maintenance provider for The Bus as part of a 5-year, $51 million contract with the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County (TJPA). Through this contract, First Transit will maintain TJPA’s fleet of 76 vehicles and will employ the drivers and staff necessary to provide paratransit, demand response, and fixed route transit services for The Bus.
Fares, routes, and the buses themselves will not change, although passengers may notice bus drivers wearing new uniforms as well as new ‘First Transit’ stickers affixed to buses. Passengers will still be able to utilize the same phone numbers, website, and social media sites for information regarding bus service and how to purchase passes. “This change should not be felt by passengers in any immediate way, but we look forward to systemwide improvements that will come with the high quality customer service and employee training that First Transit is bringing to the Merced County region,” said Christine Chavez, Transit Manager for the Merced County Association of Governments, the agency responsible for the administration of TJPA.
“We are excited about this new partnership with First Transit,” said Stacie Guzman, Executive Director of Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG) and TJPA. “We are an agency that places passenger safety and service reliability at a premium and First Transit is a company that has demonstrated the ability to deliver both.”
First Transit provides nearly six decades of experience and professional skills to put to work for transit operations and maintenance. They have operated fixed route systems in cities across North America and around the world. Their goal is to provide the safest, most efficient passenger transportation service possible, so bus patrons enjoy a safe, comfortable ride with an operator who is courteous and understanding of their needs.
TJPA’s contract with First Transit represents 100 jobs in Merced County and provides the opportunity to work with a proven industry leader in the electrification of bus fleets in the industry just as The Bus embarks on the process of shifting its own fleet to zero-emission vehicles.

All bus schedules and hours of operation can be found at www.mercedthebus.com or by calling (209) 723-3100. Real-time information regarding bus locations, services and arrival times can be found at www.thebuslive.com or by downloading ‘The Bus Live’ app on your smart phone for free. All fares are currently suspended due to the COVID-19 emergency. Passengers are asked to only use The Bus to provide or receive essential services and to wear a mask while on board as well as comply with social distancing requirements. All buses are equipped with bike racks and are wheelchair accessible.
The Bus is the single public transportation service provider for all of Merced County and is administered by the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County and managed by the Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG). For more information, please visit www.mercedthebus.com and www.mcagov.org.

May 5 , 2020

Caring Kids was instituted in 2003 and the play groups were added four years ago.
Christie Hendricks, assistant superintendent of the Early Education Department of the Merced County Office of Education, said the play groups give children a chance to learn age-appropriate skills. The Caring Kids program is funded through a Proposition 63 grant through the Merced County Mental Health Services behavioral health program.
Adrian said through the play groups young participants can transition seamlessly into preschool or kindergarten from these experiences.
For those interested in joining the program, contact Adrian at (209) 261-4194.

May 1 , 2020

Council to consider COVID19 Recovery Program

The City Council will consider a COVID19 Recovery Program during its Monday meeting.

Council will hear a report from its subcommittee on potential measures to assist local businesses and residents due to the COVID19 pandemic. The City has received other requests, including one from the Merced Hotel Motel Association asking to delay payment of transient occupancy taxes until after July 1.

Due to the coronavirus outbreak, and “stay home” orders, the Merced City Council will hold its meeting telephonically. The meeting format is allowed under Gov. Newsom’s Executive Order N-29-20.

There will be no meeting held in the Civic Center in order to protect the public, City staff and Council from the coronavirus. The meeting will be broadcast at 6 p.m. Monday on Facebook Live at City of Merced, on the City’s website, www.cityofmerced.org, and Comcast Public Access Channel 96.

People may submit public comments to the City Council electronically no later than 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Comments received before the deadline will be read as part of the record. Material may be emailed to cityclerk@cityofmerced.org and should be limited to 500 words or less. Please specify which portion of the agenda you are commenting on, i.e. item number or Oral Communications. Comments will be read to the City Council at the appropriate time. Any correspondence received during or after the meeting will be distributed to the City Council and retained for the official record.

People may provide telephonic comments via voicemail by calling (209) 388-8688 by no later than 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting in order to be added to the public comment. Voicemails will be limited to three minutes. Please specify which portion of the agenda you are commenting on. Your comments will be read to the City Council at the appropriate time.

For public hearing items, if people want to speak live during the meeting they need to leave callback information in advance. They will be contacted with further details.

On the agenda:

• Report to Council on possible measures to assist local businesses and residents through a proposed COVID19 Recovery Program and provide direction to staff.

• A Public Hearing on an appeal of a conditional use permit for a mixed use development including 218 apartments and 14,000 square-feet of retail at Yosemite Avenue and McKee Road.

• Consider a request from Mayor Pro Tem Serratto to discuss eviction concerns.

The Council will meet in closed session at 5 p.m. with real property negotiators and labor negotiators.

A link to the live meeting is also on the City’s website at https://cityofmerced.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. Videos of previous meetings can be found at that link, and are tied to each agenda item.

The Council agenda is posted online at www.cityofmerced.org.

The City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month, except when there is a holiday, then it meets the following day.