GENERAL INFORMATION

POPULATION: 39,536,653

AREA: 158,693 square miles. It is approximately 770 miles long from the Mexican border to the Oregon border, and 250 miles wide from the Pacific Ocean to the Nevada and Arizona borders.

TIME: California is in the Pacific Time Zone (GMT minus 8 hours). The state observes daylight saving time.

TAXES: The state sales tax is 7.25%. Local taxes may be as much as an additional 3%.

DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE: For local numbers, dial 411; long-distance,

1 plus area code plus 555-1212; toll-free, 800-555-1212.

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE: Call 911 toll free from any public telephone to obtain police, fire or medical assistance.

LIQUOR LAWS: Alcohol is sold throughout California. Legal drinking age is 21.

SMOKING LAWS: You must be 18 to purchase tobacco products. Smoking is prohibited in all public buildings and enclosed spaces throughout California. Many cities in California have passed ordinances prohibiting smoking in all public places. It is even illegal to smoke on certain beaches in Southern California—watch for signs.