Convenience Big Store: Sacramento asking people to reduce water use by 15%, doubles fines for water waste

Sacramento asking people to reduce water use by 15%, doubles fines for water waste – After declaring a Stage 2 water alert, the city of Sacramento is asking residents to reduce their water usage by 15%. In a press release, city council called on residents, businesses, and city operations to voluntarily lower their water usage. Tuesday's declaration means citizens will only be allowed to use a large amount of water on the property's watering days, which is currently restricted to two days a week. Fines for water waste will also be doubled. (Chris Baker, ABC10)

Why California epidemiologist is 'hopeful' COVID-19 surge is abating – A summer coronavirus surge driven by the delta variant is again straining some California hospitals, particularly in rural areas, but the trend shows signs of moderating, and experts predict improvement in coming weeks. The pattern is similar to the infection spikes California experienced last summer and much more severely over the winter when intensive care units were overflowing. Serious cases are still climbing. (AP)

Biden approves California disaster declaration following Dixie, River fires – President Joe Biden approved California's request for federal aid as the Dixie Fire continues to burn. Federal funding is available to those impacted by the Dixie Fire and the River Fire. The federal assistance could be used for grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help those recovering from disaster. (Joseph Daniels, ABC10)

TIP OF THE DAY

How to make your vote count in the recall...To register or check your registration status to ensure your address is correct, visit the Secretary of State's website. (Andie Judson, ABC10)

SMILE

Ice cream truck wheels its way to Caldor Fire evacuees...Two men from Fiddletown, Calif. jerry-rigged their own ice cream truck in an effort to bring smiles to people impacted by the Caldor Fire. (Van Tu, ABC10)