Transparency
Region 2 Gathering
Author, William M.
People’s First Chapters have conferences called gatherings every year. On even years, like 2026, Region 2 has a conference in Anderson on
May 29-31 of this year. Planning the gathering takes a lot of work, picking meals, breakout sessions, and keynote speakers are only some of the responsibilities officers take on to make the conference a success. Region 2 represents the Far Northern area for People First. The Chico, Red Bluff, Sierras, Shasta, and Corning chapters make up Region 2 People First. Each one of these chapters has officers who decide which committee they want to do for conference planning. Often, officers go back to their chapters to help produce ideas for themes, menu items, and more.
Each chapter decides what they want to do as far as a conference job. This year, Chico chose breakout sessions. We chose the breakout sessions the same way by looking at applications and picking the ones we wanted. These are splendid examples of how People First helps us find our voices and make choices for ourselves. It is important for individuals with disabilities to have places like People First to make decisions so they can stand up for their rights and live full lives in their communities.
Breakout sessions involve giving information on important topics like safety, voting, and healthy living. People can take the information they get from these sessions to share with their friends and family back home. One breakout session involved Clean Hands and Teeth, a program of We Care A Lot. People learn proper hygiene methods at that session. Individuals learn how to properly brush their teeth. They learn about foods to eat to help keep their jaws strong and cut down
on plaque. During the clean hands portion, people are shown how long it takes to get their hands germ-free. They are also taught how to keep their hands clean when there is no running water with hand sanitizer.
Another great breakout session that People First had was the Vote Project, which talks about the importance of voting for people with disabilities. At the presentation, the audience is asked true-or-false questions about voting. Questions related to voting, including the registration age, are asked of people. There is a roleplaying part where the presenter pretends to be
an interviewer and candidate for governor. This presentation takes around 45 minutes and ends with
a game that shows how few people participate in voting.
These are just a couple of examples of breakout sessions People First has had at gatherings. There are many more, and the ones at this upcoming gathering are different. The gathering is more than breakouts, though it is also about making new friends and building a community of advocates who stand up for themselves and each other. During mealtimes, keynote speakers tell stories about their lives and things they have done to help their communities. This year, we decided to have representatives from each chapter speak for 5 minutes about what each chapter did to support their community. Each chapter will have a representative talk about what they have done for their communities. Giving back to the community is one of the Principles of People First. We are all asked to find a way to support the place where we live. Chapters can volunteer or donate money as a way to give back to communities.
Region 2 Gathering is an event where advocates can meet up and share ideas with each other. We have fun together and exchange contact information to stay in touch after the conference is over. We have a Sales and Information Sale as well as a dance where people have fun after a day of gaining information. A final keynote speaks during breakfast to give people a few thoughts to take back home with them. We close the conference with a raffle for people to take home prizes as mementos of the gathering. The People First Gathering is a great place to make new friends, learn new things, and find new ways to give back to your communities.
Prepping Your Emergency Kit
Author, Ryan H.
My name is Ryan Hoag. I will now provide you with information on how to ensure your safety and well-being, as well as guide you on the essential documents to include in your emergency kit. Individuals of all ages must have their own emergency kits containing important documents
such as identification copies, medical records, and some cash for unforeseen circumstances like power outages. Moreover, pets should also have their emergency kits stocked with their vaccinations, medications, bottled water for at least three days, a flashlight, a radio, and other essentials. The list below is just an example. It is ok to change out items with those most important to you. Any large bag or container can be used; keep it ready at all times.
1. First Aid Kit
2. Non-Perishable Food (48 hours) (Rice, Ramen Noodles, Granola Bars)
3. Flashlight (extra batteries)
4. Eating Utensils
5. One Small Pot or Pan
6. Water Jug to store water (empty)
7. Small Rope
8. Tent
9. Medication
10. Pocket Knife
11. Set Of Clothes (seasonal)
12. Pet Food If You Have Pets
13. Extra Dog Leash
14. Garbage Bags (place items inside to keep them dry)
15. Drinking Cup
16. Wet Weather Poncho Or Gear
17. Soap
18. Laundry Detergent
19. Shampoo
20. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
21. Small Game Or Book For Entertainment (Deck of Cards)
22. Pencil and Paper
23. Bug Spray
24. Sunglasses
25. Umbrella
Water Safety
Author, Adrian H.
As we begin to enter the warmer months, it
is important to consider water safety. There
are plenty of activities that involve water in
Northern California and it is a good idea to
approach them safely. Please take some time
to consider the safety topics below.
Rivers can be fast moving and full of cold water. If walking near a riverbed be aware that rocks can be slippery and tripping hazards. You do not want to accidently fall into fast moving water. If you are walking near a riverbed ensure you footwear with good traction to prevent slipping. Never jump into a river without testing the water. The fast-moving water could push you down stream and be very dangerous. Rivers can also be much colder than they look, as many are fed through mountain regions.
Boating can be a fun get away. But don’t forget to wear a life vest. Life vests save lives. Ensure that there is enough life vest for everyone on the boat. It is also important to make sure the life
vests fit properly. A life vest should be snug so you can not slip out of it.
Swim lessons are a great way to stay safe in the water. Taking swim lessons will develop confidence when playing in or near water. If you are not a strong swimmer it is a good idea to research local swimming instructors near you.
Fishing is a fun activity but presents hazards on its own. Fishing hooks can be dangerous. Make sure you always check your surroundings before swinging a pole. If you fish near the ocean, be aware of tide levels and strong waves. An approaching high tide can trap you on a rock if you are not paying attention. Ocean waves are very powerful. If you are fishing to close to the shore you could be caught off guard by a large wave and swept out to sea. Always pay attention to your surroundings. Be aware of wildlife as well. Fishing near lakes and rivers can have you cross paths with snakes, bears, spiders, and other potentially dangerous animals. You should not try and approach wild animals and always keep a safe distance.
PREPARE FOR EL NIÑO
Author, Travis M.
Have you heard of El Niño? El Nino is a weather
shift that happens when the ocean heats up more
than normal. A warmerocean can impact weather
patterns across the globe. So, why is this important
to know? This year, we are expecting a “Super
El Niño”. This will likely result in record breaking
temperatures, drier seasons, and strong winds.
This can have an impact on Northern California.
We may see a dangerous fire season this year due to El Niño. To prepare for this, we need to take time to remove fire hazards such as dry leaves, tall grass, and dead vegetation. Protect your home with a strong defensible space. Keep plants watered during the summer months.
Extreme heat means it is important to eat healthy and drink more water to prevent heat injuries. Try to consume 9 glasses of water a day. Minimize strenuous activity like yard work or sports when it is hot outside. Slow down on coffee, sweets, and power drinks, as these items increase the risk of heat stroke.
El Niño weather patterns are impacting wildlife as well. A warmer winter has allowed a longer breeding season for ticks and mosquitoes. Ticks and mosquitoes are expected to be in high numbers this summer. These pests can spread diseases such as Zika and Lyme’s Viruses. It is important to protect yourself from these tiny creatures. If heading out into the woods make sure
to spray exposed skin and clothing with bug spray. Have a friend or family member check your body for hitchhiking ticks. If bitten by a tick, watch a video on how to safely remove it, or seek help from someone who knows how to do so. Use extra protection in the evening hours to avoid contact with mosquitoes. Remove or empty still water around your home, like buckets or tires; this is where. Many counties in California offer free mosquito treatment, so if you notice a lot of mosquitoes, contact your local pest control agency.
Rattlesnakes have also been reported in high numbers this year. Be on the lookout for snakes while camping, hiking, fishing, or doing other outdoor activities. Never try to catch or handle the snakes. If hiking, bring a large walking stick to help protect yourself from snakes. Keep eyes focused on the trail ahead and listen for the famous “rattle noise”. Walk deliberately but not too fast so that you might not see the well-hidden snakes. Remember, some rattlesnakes may not rattle before they strike so always be careful on trails.
To prepare for El Niño, we need to protect our homes and properties now in the cooler months.
Don’t wait until it is too late to act. We can also prepare our bodies by eating healthy and getting
some exercise. A healthier body has a better chance of adapting to a hotter climate. For more
information on El Nino updates please see https://weather.com/explore/el-nino
The Gravel Grinder
Author, Jacquie D.
An event I look forward to every year is the Lost
and Found Gravel Grinder. This event takes place in
Portola, California, June 12-13, 2026. The Gravel Grinder is a mountain bike race that raises funds for
the Lost Sierra Route. The route is still under development and aims to connect 15 mountain towns across Northern California and Nevada.
The 15 mountain towns span from Truckee to Westwood and Reno. The idea of connecting the trails
is to revitalize local economies that were previously dependent on logging and mining. Connecting
the towns through trails would allow multiday tours, sightseeing and recreation to occur for bikers,
hikers and equestrians. The stated goal of the Sierra Butte Trail Stewardships (SBTS), Connected
Communities project, (the organization that has taken on this project) is to promote economic prosperity through recreation.
So far, new trails have been built, miles of trails have been maintained, and professional trail crews
have been established.
The Gravel Grinder course is over pavement, dirt, and gravel. The races are 99, 58, and 40 miles
long. Legendary big mountains and alpine valleys with wildflowers are all part of the scenery for
this High Sierra course.
I stand at the finish line, alongside my friends from The Alive Program. We encourage the
riders across the finish line with bells, metal cups and other noisemakers. It is so fun to do this with
my friends and be a part of this huge community event.
After the race, there is a festival at Portola Park where the race starts and finishes. There is live
music, dancing, food and drink. My day program is planning for us to camp as a group in the park
this year. The festival on Saturday will have local food trucks in the park. An award ceremony
is from 3 pm-5 pm to congratulate the winners. Local small business vendors will be present
along with Sierra Buttes Stewardship merchandise. There will be a bike wash to clean off all the
accumulated dirt from the ride. The Alex Lucero Band will play live music. Sunday begins with a
Pancake breakfast.
Riders, families, and cheerleaders come from all over. This is a family-friendly event with an
opportunity to be out in nature in one of the most beautiful places around. I am excited to attend!
Scan the QR code below to participate in the (IPP) Survey
To download the full newsletter, click here [PDF, 12.51 MB].