Friday, December 31, 2010

New Years Eve Happenings in Copper

Micki & Larry's Sports Pub
48 Copper Cove Dr
785-4646
Karaoke and D.J. by Craig & Shelley. Light appetizers. Dancing.

Old Corner Saloon
574 Main St
785-3311
Karaoke and D.J. by Beau & Kim. Dancing.

Panini's Italian Grill
131 Town Square Road
Lobster Special. Closes at 9:00 pm. Call ahead 785-8811

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Calaveras Library Catalog Online

Did you know that you can search the Calaveras County Library Catalog and renew your books online?
For more information visit Calaveras Library

Picture from CCLibrary website

Calaveras Genealogical Society- Jump Into The Past


The Calaveras Genealogy Society can help you with some of the questions you may have about your pioneering Calaveras County ancestors.

All general meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of each month at 10:00am. at the Calaveras County Public Library in San Andreas in the Chesebrough Room unless otherwise noted.  The agenda is as follows:  10:00am-10:30am society business; 10:30am-11:30am Program; 11:30am -12noon Sharing.  All general meetings are open to the public.

All board meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month in the small conference room at the library.  9:30am
For more information visit their site at Calaveras Genealogical Society

Copper Curmudgeon- Women always go first!

“Women always go FIRST!”

Reno Nevada in 1959 was a very different place . . . good people including all of my close relatives lived in Reno or Sparks. The casinos were all downtown and those were for the tourists. Reno residents only went downtown to do business or have dinner.

For some reason on an autumn day my Dad and Grandpa Matt took me downtown with them to do some business. Usually this meant the boy needed a haircut which was an experience in itself because the barber shop was a mans’ place with hunting and fishing magazines and some whopper stories. And the old black shoeshine man loved my naivety and would always pull some joke on me . . . but that got me a piece of candy. Loved that old guy . . .

READ MORE

Animals of Winter Watercolor Class for Children at Town Hall Arts

Town Hall Arts of Copperopolis featured artist for September, Selma Sattin shared her talent with the children of Copperopolis today, teaching them the finer aspects of watercolor. While Selma's love of nature is clearly evident in her brilliant and soothing watercolors, her love of sharing the world of art is even more apparant through the many classes she offers to the community through Town Hall Arts.

Selma began her artistic journey after thirty years in the nursing profession. Studying with Murphy's artist Carolyn Macpherson, Selma quickly developed her own style and feel. Today her journey continued with the instruction of winter watercolor with a few lucky children from Copper.

Jordan and Jack Snook, of Copperopolis, practice drawing animals of winter in Selma Sattin's watercolor class Dec. 30 at Town Hall Arts, under the clock, Copperopolis Town Square.



Mike Toberer, of Copperopolis, helps daughter, Grace, 5, sketch trees for her winter painting.



Zack Toberer, 12, sketches trees at Town Hall Arts.


Summer Hamari, 12, does a preliminary sketch for watercolor paintings of animals in winter.

Copper Kids Club Swings Back into Action

January 5, 2011 form 4:00 to 5:30 pm Coper Canyon Baptist Church hosts Copper Kids Club "a mid week outreach ministry for kids (pre-school-6th grade)  in the community. This is an opportunity for kids to experience Jesus through worship, drama, games, small groups, crafts, and service."
For more information call Ron at 753-7779.
Copper Kids Club is held at Blackcreek park every Wednesday from 4 - 5:30.

CALFIRE Seasonal Firefighter Application Filing Period Ends Jan 31

The filing period for a seasonal firefighter for CalFire is November 1, 2010 to January 31, 2011.
Fire Fighter I is a seasonal, temporary classification used by CAL FIRE. The Fire Fighter I application period usually occurs between November and January and hiring usually occurs between April and June, depending upon the year's fire and weather conditions.
READ MORE

ANOTHER COLD NIGHT ON TAP FOR INTERIOR NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

INCREASING CHANCES FOR RAIN NEW YEARS EVE INTO NEW YEARS DAY... A VERY COLD POLAR AIR MASS HAS SETTLED OVER THE REGION AND IS BRINGING SUB-FREEZING TEMPERATURES TO A NUMBER OF VALLEY LOCATIONS THIS MORNING. SOME AREAS WHERE THE WIND HAS STAYED UP HAVE TEMPERATURES WELL ABOVE FREEZING THIS MORNING... SUCH AS OVER THE WESTERN PORTION OF THE SACRAMENTO VALLEY AND IN THE NORTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY. TONIGHT THE WINDS ARE EXPECTED TO BE MUCH LIGHTER OVER THE INTERIOR AND THIS WILL ALLOW MOST LOCATIONS TO LOWER INTO THE UPPER 20S TO LOWER 30S OVERNIGHT WITH SOME OF THE COLDER VALLEY LOCATIONS DIPPING INTO THE MID 20S. FOOTHILLS LOCATIONS WILL HAVE TEMPERATURES IN THE 20S TO LOWER 30S TONIGHT WHILE TEMPERATURES IN THE MOUNTAINS WILL RANGE FROM THE SINGLE DIGITS TO AROUND 20 DEGREES. IF TRAVELING INTO THE MOUNTAINS TODAY FOR RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES...BUNDLE UP BECAUSE IT WILL BE VERY COLD WITH TEMPERATURES ONLY WARMING INTO THE TEENS AND 20S AT THE RESORT AREAS

Target Areas: NORTHEAST FOOTHILLS/SACRAMENTO VALLEY-MOTHERLODE-WESTERN PLUMAS COUNTY/LASSEN PARK-WEST SLOPE NORTHERN SIERRA NEVADA-

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Interview with Darren Spellman- By, Betsy Duncan

Betsy Duncan, Calaveras County Board of Realtors, President Elect 2011, interviewed Darren Spellman on issues ranging from his personal top three pressing issues for District 5 to making the County more builder friendly...
READ MORE

National Weather Service Hazardous Weather Outlook

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SACRAMENTO CA
435 AM PST WED DEC 29 2010

MOTHERLODE-
EAST FOOTHILLS/NORTH SACRAMENTO VALLEY-

.DAY ONE...TODAY

HEAVY SNOW WILL GRADUALLY TAPER OFF FROM THE NORTH ACROSS THE NORTHERN SIERRA NEVADA THIS MORNING...HOWEVER SNOW SHOWERS WILL CONTINUE THROUGH THE DAY. SIGNIFICANT ADDITIONAL SNOWFALL ACCUMULATIONS ARE LIKELY ALONG WITH AREAS OF BLOWING AND DRIFTING SNOW AT THE HIGHER ELEVATIONS.

* WINTER STORM WARNING.......SEE WWUS46 KSTO - WSWSTO FOR DETAILS *

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN... THURSDAY THROUGH TUESDAY

COLD MINIMUM TEMPERATURES CAN BE EXPECTED ACROSS THE REGION THURSDAY AND FRIDAY MORNINGS WITH READINGS IN THE MOUNTAIN VALLEYS DIPPING DOWN INTO THE SINGLE DIGITS AND TEENS WHILE THE CENTRAL VALLEY WILL LIKELY SEE READINGS IN THE MID 20S TO LOWER 30S. OTHERWISE...NO HAZARDOUS WEATHER IS EXPECTED AT THIS TIME.

Sheriff Office Media Release

On 12-27-10 at 0425 Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to Chevron Gas Station in Valley Springs for a report of a male subject stealing gas. The store clerks observed the male subject unlawfully pumping the gas into 55 gallon drums.
READ MORE

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Honor the Fallen

Honor those who fought and died in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
Number of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom casualties as confirmed by U.S. Central Command: 5846
HONOR THE FALLEN

Station #2 Brown Outs Update

According to Chief Cantrell, Copperopolis Fire Protection District's Station #2 on Quill Road in Copperopolis is scheduled with paid fire staff 24/7. A brown out will occur if paid staff calls in sick and there is no staff available to fill that vacant position. Station #2 has been staffed approximately 16 days this calendar month. The current staff at CFPD consists of one firefighter, three Engineers, one Engineer/Firefighter, and one Captain/Engineer/Paramedic, and one per diem Paramedic, rotating on a three on three off schedule. The low staffing makes covering a shift when a firefighter calls in sick or has an emergency "challenging."

It was brought to the attention of the Board at the CFPD Board meeting December 9, 2010 that the District was staffing Station #2 only intermittently.  At that time the Chief assured the citizens and the Board that volunteers were able to respond to calls coming from their personal homes and utilizing the equipment at the station to respond to a call. While this left remaining questions about response times and excessive reliance on volunteer staff, the Chief stood by his statment, reiterating that the District is a combination district.  A combination district is one that has both paid and volunteer firefighters.  "It was pretty clear when I became a volunteer that I was expected to be part of the crew, and that I had to be reliable." Said one volunteer firefighter.

According to CFPD Director John Maness, District policy mandates one Paramedic 24/7/365 and also two firefighters per engine 24/7/365. Staffing of Station #2 is beneficial to the community and district firefighters but is not mandatory under District policy, however, "providing the best coverage we can under the current fiscal circumstances" is Chief Cantrell's primary objective.

The next CFPD Board meeting is to be held January 13, 2011. For more Board information call 785-2393.

Bret Harte High School Conducting and ADA Self Evaluation


The Bret Harte Union High School District’s in the process of
conducting an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) self-evaluation and
transition plan. Areas to be evaluated include facility and program
accessibility, accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and
administrative policies and procedures.
READ MORE

California Air Resources Board gives green light to California’s emissions trading program

The California Air Resources Board endorsed the cap-and-trade regulation, marking a significant milestone toward reducing California’s greenhouse gas emissions under its AB 32 law.  ARB’s cap-and-trade regulation, along with several complementary measures will drive the development of green jobs and set the state on track to a clean energy future.
READ MORE

ANOTHER WET AND WINDY WINTER STORM TO AFFECT THE CENTRAL CALIFORNIA INTERIOR THIS WEEK

HIGH PRESSURE WILL GIVE WAY TO A STRONG PACIFIC STORM THIS WEEK WHICH WILL BRING THE POTENTIAL FOR MORE HEAVY SNOW IN THE SOUTHERN SIERRA NEVADA AND TEHACHAPI MOUNTAINS ALONG WITH STRONG WINDS. THE STORM WILL ARRIVE TUESDAY AFTERNOON WITH THE HEAVIEST SNOW TO OCCUR TUESDAY NIGHT AND WEDNESDAY. ...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 4 PM PST WEDNESDAY... A WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 4 PM PST WEDNESDAY FOR THE HIGHER ELEVATIONS OF THE SOUTHERN SIERRA NEVADA. * SNOW ACCUMULATIONS: 2 TO 3 FEET OF NEW SNOW ABOVE 5000 FEET WITH UP TO ONE FOOT OF SNOW AT THE 4000 FOOT ELEVATION. * ELEVATION: SNOW LEVEL WILL FALL BELOW 4000 FEET BY WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON.

Monday, December 27, 2010

New Vaccination Requirement for All High School Students for the 2011-12

California legislature passed AB 354 requiring all students grades 7-12 be immunized against whooping cough (pertussis) prior to entry for the next school year.  All Bret Harte students will need proof of the Tdap vaccine on or after the 10th birthday to meet this requirement.  Your physician or the health department vaccination clinics will be able to provide this vaccine.  Please plan accordingly.  More information may be obtained from the following site:

Public Notice from Mark Twain Elementary School District

Regarding Waiver for 60-day Extension of School Accountability Report Card (SARC)



The Mark Twain Union Elementary School District will hold a Public Hearing at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, January13, 2011 in the District meeting room at 981 Tuolumne Ave, Angels Camp, CA.

This Public Hearing will be held in regards to Student Accountability Report Card (SARC). School districts are charged with issuing a SARC for each school in the district, and making the SARC available to parents online or in hard copy by February 1 of each year. At the November SBE meeting, the SBE approved the 2010-11 SARC templates and at the same time it was announced that, because of budget and staffing reductions, California Department of Education (CDE) staff would no longer be able to pre-populate the SARC templates with much of the data as in years past. This process change will require school districts and sites to take on additional duties related to manually gathering and inputting the data required for the SARC. Because of the lateness in approving the SARC template and this new process change, districts can request a 60-day extension from the statutorily required posting date of February 1 to ensure that they have sufficient time to complete accurate and up-to-date SARCs for parents and community members. 

The MTUESD Board of Trustees encourages the participation by parents / guardians, teachers, interested community members and bargaining unit leaders in this hearing.

A Little Copperopolis Armory History

Copperopolis Armory National Register #97001588
Copperopolis Armory, built by public subscription in 1866 for 8,000 dollars, was used by the Union Guard for enlisting and training troops. In 1868 it was sold to the Copperopolis Armory Hall Association for 800 dollars in gold and was used for Congregational and Methodist Church services, public meetings, balls and rallies.
 
The property was purchased by the Mineral Lodge, I.O.O.F. in 1874 and used as a lodge until 1903. Copperopolis Community Center purchased the armory in 1948.

Placed on the National Register of Historic Places December 30, 1997
Dedicated through the efforts of Charles and Rhoda Stone
Presented By N.D.G.W., Princess Parlor No. 84
June 28, 1998
Picture courtesy NoeHill Travels

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Wednesday Snow Levels Drop

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SACRAMENTO CA
233 PM PST SUN DEC 26 2010
...ANOTHER STORM WILL TAKE AIM AT NORTHERN CALIFORNIA AND COULD
BRING SNOW TO THE FOOTHILLS ON WEDNESDAY

A STORM SYSTEM WILL DEVELOP IN THE GULF OF ALASKA AND AT FIRST
SPREAD LIGHT RAIN AND SNOW OVER THE NORTHERN HALF OF THE SACRAMENTO VALLEY AND SURROUNDING MOUNTAINS ON MONDAY NIGHT. THE STORM WILL SPREAD RAIN AND MOUNTAIN SNOW SOUTH AND EAST DURING THE DAY ON TUESDAY. AS THE FRONT MOVES THROUGH THE INTERIOR ON TUESDAY NIGHT MODERATE TO SOMETIMES HEAVY PRECIPITATION MAY OCCUR OVER THE INTERIOR. GUSTY WINDS MAY OCCUR FOR SEVERAL HOURS OVER THE CENTRAL VALLEY AS THE SYSTEM PASSES WITH STRONG RIDGETOP WINDS TO 50 MPH.

SNOW LEVELS WILL START TO LOWER TUESDAY NIGHT BUT LOWER MORE
SIGNIFICANTLY DURING THE DAY ON WEDNESDAY TO NEAR 1000 FEET OVER
SHASTA COUNTY TO NEAR 2500 FEET ACROSS THE MOTHERLODE AND SOUTHERN
LAKE COUNTY. A COUPLE OF INCHES OF SNOW WILL BE POSSIBLE AT THESE
LOWER LEVELS ON WEDNESDAY WITH UP TO TWO FEET OF NEW SNOW POSSIBLE
ABOVE 6000 FEET.

Board of Supervisors Meeting - January 04, 2011

District 5 Supervisor Elect Darren Spellman took his oath of office on December 14, 2010. Spellman officially takes office January 3, 2011 and will sit for his first board meeting on January 4, 2011.

Meeting Agenda

Fish and Game Commission Job Opening

The California Fish and Game Commission
Invites Applications for
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FISH AND GAME COMMISSION
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA
MONTHLY SALARY: $8,976 - $9,709
FINAL FILING DATE:
Final Filing Date is Extended to June 2011

Holiday Tree Safety

In 2009, 166 Christmas tree fires were reported to the CAL FIRE - Office of the State Fire Marshal. There were 100 reported fires caused by the ignition of Christmas decorations. As of December 1 there have been nearly 40,000 reported fire incidents with over 80 tragic fire deaths in California.

With the presents opened and the eggnog drank, the tree tends to be forgotten. This is the time to remember to check the water level in the tree stand every day, turn off decorative lights each night, and make sure smoke detectors are in working order by checking them every month and changing the batteries twice a year.

A fire safe Christmas vacation is a happy one.


Source: CalFire

Copper Curmudgeon Strikes Again

December 26, 2010

Dag Nabbit . . . where the heck is Copperopolis?

Now for those of us that have been in Copper for a while the question has become where is Copperopolis?

The towns’ historical center is the Main Street and heck we even have a Post Office for zip code 95228 on Main Street along with a good number of State registered historical monuments and a new 150th Anniversary wall next to between the museum and the armory. The cemetery is over off Reeds’ Turnpike.

Kids and Snow

Country kids are so resourceful.
A little snow and a kiddie pool...its all good.

NASA collaborates with CALFIRE to Mitigate Wildland Fire Disasters

MOFFETT Field, Calif. - NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif., has entered into a five-year Non-Reimbursable Space Act Agreement with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) to use NASA technology and capabilities to help support the management and mitigation of wildfire disasters.
READ MORE

Calaveras Grown Event

Calaveras Grown, a countywide cooperative marketing program designed to assist agricultural producers market their products, is hosting a dinner event February 25, 2011, with guest speakers Lynn Miller, co-founder Small Farms Conservancy, and Paul Hunter, teacher and grassroots arts activist.
Tickets go on sale January 4, 2011.
READ MORE,

Copper Valley Trail Company- New Year's Day 'Ride Your Own Horse' Trail Ride

New Year's Day Ride, Jan. 1st
We believe that whatever you find yourself doing on the first day of the year, is what you'll enjoy doing all year long!  SO, get out on the trail with us and your favorite trail horse!!


THE RIDE
Meet at the trailhead at the Copperopolis Town Square at 10:00AM, we'll check everyone in for the ride, and then we'll saddle up to head out on the trail at 11:00AM.  Bring a lunch and a chair, and we'll pack it along on the ride.  We'll stop midway through the ride to have lunch, and then head back to the trailhead and have a S'Mores Dessert by the campfire!  



Cost:  $20.00 per person,


Call to reserve your spot now!!
(209) 785-9801
Please call if you're interested in riding with us, as we need an approximate head count for the ride!

Saturday, December 25, 2010

Rain for Copper, Snow at 4500'

STEADY RAINFALL THIS AFTERNOON AND EVENING. SOUTH TO SOUTHEAST WINDS WILL INCREASE TO 15 TO 25 MPH LATER THIS MORNING. A COLD FRONT WILL
MOVE THROUGH LATER THIS AFTERNOON. WIND GUSTS TO 35 MPH ARE
POSSIBLE JUST AHEAD OF THE FRONT. THUNDERSTORMS MAY OCCUR IN
UNSTABLE AIR ALONG AND JUST BEHIND THE COLD FRONT LATE THIS
AFTERNOON AND THIS EVENING.

...GUSTY WINDS...RAIN AND MOUNTAIN SNOW EXPECTED TODAY...

A FAST MOVING COLD FRONT WILL SPREAD MORE RAIN AND SNOW ACROSS
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA TODAY AND TONIGHT. SNOW WILL BECOME STEADY
ABOVE 4500 FEET LATE THIS MORNING

Merry Christmas Copper

Hoping all your wishes and dreams come true!

Merry Christmas to all!

Friday, December 24, 2010

Press Release From CHP- 'Tis the Season for Safe Holiday Travel

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The holidays are a time of celebration with family, friends and co-workers. Often, those holiday festivities involve travel, whether it’s to a relative’s house, home from the office Christmas party, or even just a quick trip to the store for a last-minute purchase.
Regardless of what brings you out on the roadways this year, know that you’re in good company with the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
On Friday, Dec. 24 at 6 p.m., the CHP begins its Christmas Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) which continues through Sunday, Dec. 26 at 11:59 p.m. During this holiday weekend, CHP offices throughout the state plan for increased visible presence by deploying special enforcement teams, in addition to those who are already scheduled to work.
“The holiday season is all about having good times with family and friends, and about sharing and giving,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “We want to make sure everyone enjoy their festivities, and therefore, our goal is to ensure you and your loved ones arrive at your destination safely.”
Drivers are reminded to always wear seatbelts, put children in appropriate safety seats, drive at a safe speed for various conditions, and never drink and drive during this holiday season.
“Officers will be on the road to ensure motorists celebrate the holidays in a safe, responsible manner,” added Commissioner Farrow. “If your celebration involves alcohol, please designate a
non-drinking driver.”
Last year during the CHP’s Christmas holiday enforcement effort, 22 people were killed in collisions statewide; among the vehicle occupants killed within CHP’s jurisdiction, more than half were not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. CHP officers also accounted for 1,104 arrests made statewide for driving under the influence (DUI) during the 2009 Christmas MEP.
The CHP will conduct a similar holiday enforcement effort during the New Year’s weekend which begins Friday, Dec. 31 at 6 p.m., and continues through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011.

Saddle Creek Offers a New Years Eve Package to Delight the Golfer in your life

New Years Eve Package
Fabulous New Years Eve Party,
One Bedroom Suite with Fireplace,
Breakfast & One Round of Golf
$240 Golf Friday Per Person/ $255 Golf Saturday Per Person
Based Upon Double Occupancy
(209) 785-7415

Weather Update

A LOW PRESSURE SYSTEM OVER THE PACIFIC WILL SPREAD MORE RAIN AND
SNOW ACROSS THE INTERIOR SATURDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT. SNOW WILL
BECOME STEADY ABOVE 4500 FEET LATE SATURDAY MORNING ALONG THE
COASTAL RANGE AND OVER SHASTA COUNTY BY EARLY AFTERNOON

A White Christmas for Those Above 5000

ANOTHER PACIFIC STORM SYSTEM WILL BRING MORE RAIN AND MOUNTAIN SNOW
TO NORTHERN CALIFORNIA SATURDAY AND SUNDAY. GUSTY WINDS ARE LIKELY
IN THE SACRAMENTO AND NORTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEYS SATURDAY AHEAD OF
A COLD FRONT.

HEAVY SNOW IS POSSIBLE ABOVE 5000 FEET IN THE
MOUNTAINS.

PRECIPITATION WILL TAPER OFF TO SCATTERED SHOWERS LATE
SATURDAY MORNING.

Vehicle Accident Little John and Mocassin

2:58 pm- A vehicle accident/possible rollover was reported at the intersection of Little John Road and Mocassin. Emergency crews are on the scene. Proceed with caution.

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor,
Copper Fire is $250,000.00 in the hole . . . a special meeting was called to respond to this problem on December 23rd. The directors could not make a decision so they tabled the issue to next meeting. Station two is manned on occasional basis now due to this money issue making response to the southern district 12 to 15 minutes. People in coronary arrest die in 4 minutes. Next meeting is January 15th.
Mike Shevlin

Ed Gouzenne Appointed to the CFPD Board of Directors

On December 23, 2010 retired CFPD Volunteer Captain Ed Gouzenne was appointed to the Board of Directors for Copperopolis Fire Protection District. Ed fills the vacancy left by Walt Ball, longtime Director and community leader. Ed brings with him 30 years experience with CFPD and 4 years with CDF.  He hopes to “try to get the Department back in order…smooth things out.”
Immediately after being sworn in Ed was hit with some serious budget woes for the remainder of the fiscal year. The County has informed Chief Cantrell that the department faces a possible 10% reduction in revenue for the remainder of the fiscal year, that compounded with the 12.25% reduction for the first half of the fiscal year has left the Department with no other choice but to make more budget cuts. The Chief stated that if the Department maintained its course with the current budget plan for the remainder of the fiscal year the department would experience a shortfall of $252,900.00. Following that information the Chief proposed that 1. (the Board) needs to close the shortfall and 2. (the Board) needs to take measures to ensure adequate carryover for the coming fiscal year.
Multiple scenarios were bounced about the table including use of more per diem staffing, cuts in hours for administrative staff, enacting a cost recovery system for  non residents to reimburse CFPD for the cost of response (ie: vehicle accidents), contracting out admin positions, staffing grants, and an across the board pay cut of 10%. The bottom line was to make cuts that would ensure that the safety of the public was not affected and that service would not be interrupted or lessened. The 10% across the board pay cuts was called into question by the Chief due to the fact that some of the staff is currently working at barely above minimum wage and that a 10% pay cut would drop them beneath the state mandated minimum wage requirement.
The Board agreed to table the many ideas until the next meeting to be held January 13, 2011.
The Volunteer Association has offset the cost of many necessities within the department such as low angle rope rescue equipment, Paramedic dummies, and replenishing the stock off tools for the shop that left with the preceding Chief. However, Don Rollings, President of the Volunteer Association worried that the Department should not plan on such financial support from the Volunteer association due to the fact that their revenues are also “way down.”
At the time of the last Board meeting one employee was on administrative leave, two were on modified work schedules due to non compliance with licensing and certification requirements. To date, one employee remains on administrative leave and the two that were on modified work schedules have completed their obligations, are now compliant, and are back on regular shifts.
The CFPD Board members are Barbara Cheney President, John Maness Treasurer, Steve Marks Director, Jerry Andress Director, and Ed Gouzenne Director.
Update:
12.25% reduction in revenue is total reduction..not compounded.
Shortfall of $252,900.00 is for the 2011/2012 fiscal year.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

Medical Marijuana Collective Still in the Limelight

While the City officials of Lodi are preparing to join Tracy and Modesto in banning all sales of medical marijuana, Calaveras County is putting the finishing touches on their medical marijuana plan. “Working out the details with planning (dept) and legal staff” says former District 5 Supervisor Russ Thomas “to keep them (collectives) permitted and in professional commercial zoning.”

The only currently operating Collective in Calaveras County is Forgotten Knowledge Collective in Valley Springs, a non-profit medical marijuana collective, owned and operated by Developer Guy Myers since July 2010.

“The word ‘Collective’ is not well defined in the California Health & Safety Code 11362.775, outlining a single brief provision giving qualified patients and primary caregivers- who associate "collectively or cooperatively" in not-for-profit operations - the right to cultivate medical marijuana to meet their collective medicinal needs,” Said Private Investigator John Blackburn.    (Collectives and cooperatives are the only recognized groups under the law [H/S/ §11362.77]).)

In order to benefit from the existence of a cooperative or a collective one must possess an ID card. All counties in California are required to participate in the identification card program by providing applications to those wishing to participate; processing completed applications; following implementation protocols; and issuing DPH identification cards to approved applicants and designated primary caregivers (H/S §11362.71(b)).

However, a medical marijuana ID card, issued by the Health Department with a prescription from a licensed care provider, is not necessarily a ‘get out of jail free’ card. The Supreme Court has in the past determined the Medical Marijuana Program Act does not afford qualified medical marijuana patients complete immunity from arrest because of their status as patients.

Guy Myers was not available for comment but has been quoted as saying he followed “the guidelines issued by the State Attorney General” when laying the ground work to open his doors in July 2010. The County code, adopted in 2005, does not distinguish between dispensaries and collectives, which have different meanings and different guidelines, and puts the planning commissioner in charge of enforcement of the code.


Twas the Night Before Christmas- Marine Corps Version

by Marines on Thursday, December 23, 2010 at 6:14am
Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone, In a one-bedroom house made of plaster and stone. I had come down the chimney, with presents to give and to see just who in this home did live. As I looked all about, a strange sight I did see, no tinsel, no presents, not even a tree. No stocking by the fire, just boots filled with sand. On the wall hung pictures of a far distant land. With medals and badges, awards of all kind, a sobering thought soon came to my mind. For this house was different, unlike any I'd seen. This was the home of a U.S. Marine. I'd heard stories about them, I had to see more, so I walked down the hall and pushed open the door. And there he lay sleeping, silent, alone, Curled up on the floor in his one-bedroom home. He seemed so gentle, his face so serene, Not how I pictured a U.S. Marine. Was this the hero, of whom I’d just read? Curled up in his poncho, a floor for his bed? His head was clean-shaven, his weathered face tan. I soon understood, this was more than a man. For I realized the families that I saw that night, owed their lives to these men, who were willing to fight. Soon around the Nation, the children would play, And grown-ups would celebrate on a bright Christmas day. They all enjoyed freedom, each month and all year, because of Marines like this one lying here. I couldn’t help wonder how many lay alone, on a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home. Just the very thought brought a tear to my eye. I dropped to my knees and I started to cry. He must have awoken, for I heard a rough voice, "Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more. My life is my God, my country, my Corps." With that he rolled over, drifted off into sleep, I couldn't control it, I continued to weep. I watched him for hours, so silent and still. I noticed he shivered from the cold night's chill. So I took off my jacket, the one made of red, and covered this Marine from his toes to his head. Then I put on his T-shirt of scarlet and gold, with an eagle, globe and anchor emblazoned so bold. And although it barely fit me, I began to swell with pride, and for one shining moment, I was Marine Corps deep inside. I didn't want to leave him so quiet in the night, this guardian of honor so willing to fight. But half asleep he rolled over, and in a voice clean and pure, said "Carry on, Santa, it's Christmas Day, all secure." One look at my watch and I knew he was right, Merry Christmas my friend, Semper Fi and goodnight.

Sheriff Department Media Release

Thought for the day from a loyal reader

"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand and wine in the other, body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO-HOO! What a ride!!!"

CFPD Board Meeting Tonight-Agenda as Follows

COPPEROPOLIS  FIRE  PROTECTION  DISTRICT  -  370  MAIN  STREET,  COPPEROPOLIS,CA
                                 BOARD  OF  DIRECTORS  MEETING    -    DECEMBER  23,  2010  5:30 P M.
I.    Open  Public  Meeting
II.   Roll Call of Board Members
III.  Approval of the Agenda
IV.  Public Comments ( each person limited to five (5) minutes of speaking ).  Comments shall be limited to items of interest to the public that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Board: Government Code Section 54954.3 (a).
V.   Adjournment of Public Meeting to Meet in Closed Session for Discussion and Possible Action to Fill the Vacancy on the Board.
VI.  Reconvene Public Session - Report any actions from Closed Session.
VII.  Mid-Year Budget Review and Possible Action - Fiscal Year  2010-2011
VIII. Analysis and Possible Action of "Draft" Proposed Preliminary Budget -Fiscal Year 2011-2012
IX.   Adjournment of Meeting.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Press Release Assemblywoman Kristin Olsen

Olsen Appointed To Water, Agriculture And Insurance Committees


SACRAMENTO - Assemblymember Kristin Olsen, R-Modesto, today announced that she has been appointed by Speaker John A. Pérez to serve as a member of the Water, Parks and Wildlife, Agriculture and Insurance committees, and named as Vice Chair of the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, Tourism and Internet Media committee for the 2011-12 legislative session.
"Serving on these committees will give me the opportunity to work on issues that directly affect the Central Valley and Foothills," said Olsen.  "I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that our state has a reliable water supply, an agricultural industry that can continue to feed the world and an insurance marketplace that offers Californians affordable choices."
As the name implies, the Water, Parks and Wildlife committee oversees California's water resources, flood management, fish and game, parks and recreation, and wildlife. 

To contact your 25th District Assembly Representative:
Kristin Olsen
1912 Standiford Ave, Suite 4
Modesto, CA 95350
209-576-6425
209-576-6426 fax

Congressman Lundgren named Subcommittee Chairman

On December 20, 2010 Chairman Elect King (R-NY) announced that Lundgren (R-CA) was named Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection and Security Technologies for the 112th Congress.
Lundgren released the following statement:
“One of the first responsibilities of government, as stated in the preamble of the constitution, is to“ provide for the common defense” of our great country. I am honored to be selected, by chairman-elect King, to chair the subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection and Security Technologies. Representative King’s steadfast oversight of our nation’s security is commendable and I am pleased to serve with him.  The threats our nation faces are ever present and ever changing. It is vital that we continue to identify, assess and confront these threats so those who wish to harm our country and our citizens fail in their attempt.”

If you wish to contact your 3rd District Congressional Representative
Congressman Dan Lungren
    2339 Gold Meadow Way
    Suite 220
    Gold River, CA 95670
or call (916) 859-9906 for an appointment.


Source, Lundgren.house.gov

Fireplace Safety From EPFD

CHECK YOUR CHIMNEY or FLUE
Now is the time to clean and repair them.
A chimney or flue fire occurs when the build-up of creosote gets hot enough to burn.  The fire can spread from the chimney or flue through cracks, loose mortar, small separations in flue pipe, and/or loose or missing flue caps or screens and get into the wall partitions or onto the roof.
SIGNS:
                     Loud roaring, popping noises.
                    Sparks and flames shooting from the chimney/flue top.
                    Stove and/or stove pipe vibrating.
WHAT TO DO:
                     Don't panic.
                    Call 9-1-1 before trying to put out the fire.
                    Close damper(s).  If the stove is airtight, keep the door closed to cut off the air supply to the firebox.
                    If it's not airtight, and if the fire in the firebox is small, one might attempt to use a chemical fire extinguisher to slow the fire.
                    NEVER use water - the stove could crack if too hot.
                    Check the roof for sparks and fire spread.
NOTE:  Any time there is a chimney or flue fire call 9-1-1.  Even if you feel you have the problem under control.   There could be fire that has extended into your walls, attic or roof.

Winter Solstice Occured-Longer Days Ahead

The precise moment of the 2010 solstice, known as the longest night and shortest day of the year, was Dec. 21, 2010, 6:38 PM EST (23:38 UT).
We now can begin looking forward to longer days, one minute at a time.

National Weather Service Special Weather Statement

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SACRAMENTO CA
329 PM PST WED DEC 22 2010

NORTHEAST FOOTHILLS/SACRAMENTO VALLEY-MOTHERLODE-
...PACIFIC STORM SYSTEM LIKELY TO IMPACT WEEKEND HOLIDAY TRAVEL...

ANOTHER PACIFIC STORM SYSTEM WILL BRING MORE RAIN AND MOUNTAIN SNOW
TO NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DURING THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY WEEKEND. THIS
STORM IS EXPECTED TO APPROACH THE CALIFORNIA COAST FRIDAY NIGHT
AND EARLY SATURDAY THEN SPREAD PRECIPITATION ACROSS NORTHERN
CALIFORNIA SATURDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING. AT THIS TIME...IT
APPEARS THAT CHRISTMAS EVE WILL REMAIN DRY WITH ONLY LIGHT RAIN OR
MOUNTAIN SNOW POSSIBLE CHRISTMAS MORNING.

Need a Last Minute Gift for the Coffee Lover in Your Life?

Snaps Coffee House, located at 240 Town Square Road, is now offering Gift Cards. You can load the gift card with any denomination. At the time of purchase you receive a 10% discount. So a $20.00 gift card actually will only cost $18.00, a $10.00 gift card wil cost $9.00, and so on.
A great gift for a friend or co-worker...or yourself.
Snaps is open from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm weekdays and from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm weekends.
Call for more information 785-1616
Closing at 2:00 pm on Christmas Eve.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Sheriff Department Media Release

12-21-2010 at 1545 hours a media release from the Calaveras County Sheriff's Department confirmed the arrest of Jakob Aaron Main.
The full media release  READ MORE

Budget Cuts Affect Vaccine Clinics

Due to Calaveras Public Health budget cuts the vaccine clinics that were available monthly to Copperopolis residents are no longer available locally. The Public Health Department in San Andreas still offers immunization and flu clinics twice weekly at the Public Health Department located at 700 Mountain Ranch Road, on Mondays 3:00 to 5:30 pm and Thursdays 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. There is a fee of $16.00 per immunization. Medi-Cal is accepted.
Flu shots are available at this clinic. Please visit their site for more information regarding the flu shot. http://www.co.calaveras.ca.us/cc/Departments/PublicHealthDepartment/Pneumonia.aspx

or call Calaveras Public Health at 754-6460

Escaped Inmates Still at Large 12-21-10

According to a spokesperson with Vallecito Conservation Camp the prisoners that escaped from the minimum security facility operated by Cal Fire and CDRC in the early morning hours of December 11, 2010, are “still at large” and assumed to be “in the L.A. area.”
Both escaped inmates are Hispanic males: one is 39 years old with black hair and brown eyes. He is  5 ‘ 4” tall and ‘slightly overweight in build.’ The second is 40 years old with black hair and brown eyes.  He is 5’ 6” tall and weighs 170 pounds.
If you see either of these escaped inmates or have any information that may lead to their whereabouts, please contact the local Sheriff Department or the Vallecito Conservation Camp at 209-736-4922.

Letters to the Editor

The Copper Gazette welcomes your news stories, photos, letters to the Editor, and event submissions. Just click on the 'submit an event' in the right hand column to send your message to the Copper Gazette.

More Winter Weather Headed Our Way

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SACRAMENTO CA
424 AM PST TUE DEC 21 2010

SHASTA LAKE AREA/NORTHERN SHASTA COUNTY-
BURNEY BASIN/EASTERN SHASTA COUNTY-NORTHERN SACRAMENTO VALLEY-
CENTRAL SACRAMENTO VALLEY-SOUTHERN SACRAMENTO VALLEY-
CARQUINEZ STRAIT AND DELTA-NORTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY-
MOUNTAINS SOUTHWESTERN SHASTA TO NORTHERN LAKE COUNTIES-
CLEAR LAKE/SOUTHERN LAKE COUNTY-MOTHERLODE-
EAST FOOTHILLS/NORTH SACRAMENTO VALLEY-
WESTERN PLUMAS COUNTY/LASSEN PARK-WEST SLOPE NORTHERN SIERRA NEVADA-
424 AM PST TUE DEC 21 2010

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR INTERIOR NORTHERN CALIFORNIA.

.DAY ONE...TODAY

ANOTHER PACIFIC FRONTAL WILL BRING THE POTENTIAL FOR HEAVY SNOW AND
GUSTY WINDS TO THE NORTHERN SIERRA BEGINNING LATE TONIGHT.

* WINTER STORM WATCH
.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN... WEDNESDAY THROUGH MONDAY

THE POTENTIAL FOR HEAVY SNOW AND GUSTY WINDS WILL CONTINUE IN THE
NORTHERN SIERRA NEVADA WEDNESDAY. A BREAK IN THE WEATHER IS EXPECTED
THURSDAY AND FRIDAY BEFORE ANOTHER POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT SYSTEM
AFFECTS THE REGION CHRISTMAS DAY AND SUNDAY.

The Copper Curmudgeon

Curmedgeon "crusty, surly, usually old man."
Copper Gazette introduces a new opinion column by a local curmudgeon who willingly and weekly shares his view on life. To see what he's up to visit his opinion column found on the right side of the page titled Copper Curmudgeon.

The views of the Copper Curmudgeon are not necessarily those of the Copper Gazette.

Monday, December 20, 2010

Local Volunteer Firefighters Recognized for their Service

At a Christmas dinner Saturday evening held at Saddle Creek Lodge, CFPD recognized and honored the outstanding achievements of their volunteer staff. Each volunteer within the department must attend and pass courses on wild land fire, safety, structure fire, confined space awareness and first responder, to name a few, before they can be called a Copperopolis Fire Protection District Volunteer Firefighter.
Don Rollings, a volunteer since August 2008 and Volunteer Association President, received the coveted “Volunteer of the Year” award recognizing his commitment to the department, his professionalism, and his high rate of response to calls.
Ricky Molina, a volunteer since May 2010, received “Rookie of the Year” pointing out his constant drive to excel at his chosen profession. Ricky recently completed his EMT course.
Stacey Nolan, a volunteer since January 2002, received the “Service Award” recognizing her contribution to the community through Fire Prevention public education, eagerly and efficiently spear heading any project that brings fire safety awareness to the public.
Upon completion of required courses volunteers are: outfitted with structure gear and wild land fire gear; issued a pager which they keep on their person at all times in order to respond to an emergency situation quickly; required to attend mandatory training meetings to keep up with the latest fire fighting technology and equipment use; and are required to pass a physical agility and endurance test yearly. With CFPD being a “combination fire department” it relies heavily on the response and service of the local volunteer firefighters. CFPD has a volunteer roster of 18 volunteer firefighters making it well staffed volunteer wise to handle any incident. One of the many duties of a volunteer besides responding to fire and medical calls, is to cover a fire station when the paid staff is on a call far from the central part of town, ie; Poole Station, allowing for quick response from the station if another call comes out.
Stacey Nolan holding her "Service Award" Plaque

Don Rollings accepting his "Volunteer of the Year" Plaque

To be a volunteer firefighter pick up an application at Station #1 or download an application from the CFPD website at http://www.copperfiredist.com/

Speaker from Orvis Cattle Ranch about Local Pasture Fed Beef coming in January

On January 25, 2011 from 5:30 to 8:00 pm at Camps restaraunt in Angels Camp the Calaveras Chapter of Slow FOod USA is featuring a speaker from the Orvis Cattle Company.

The Orvis Cattle Company is one of the premiere seedstock producers for the Hereford cattle industry locatedon the historical Snow Ranch along Hwy 4. The Orvis Family has dedicated it as a Public Land Trust so the land will always be used for grazing or agriculture only. Hear Don Harper, General Partner talk about the Orvis cattle operation, the Land Trust and raising of pasture-fed beef on the oldest and largest ranch in the Sierra Foothills.

The Calaveras Chapter of Slow Food USA's main goal is to support our local producers and become a food education resource for our county. They are also working to improve our children's diets and school lunch programs.
 
For more information on Slow Foods visit their Facebook page Slow Food Calaveras.

More Rain and Winter Weather

STORMY WINTER WEATHER CONTINUES TO AFFECT THE REGION TODAY. IMPACTS
INCLUDE: MODERATE TO HEAVY SNOW IN THE MOUNTAINS WITH LOCALLY GUSTY
WINDS DURING THE MORNING HOURS...MODERATE TO OCCASIONALLY HEAVY RAIN
SHOWERS IN THE LOWER ELEVATIONS WITH THE POSSIBILITY FOR MINOR
FLOODING OF LOW LYING AREAS. THERE WILL ALSO BE A CHANCE FOR A FEW
ISOLATED THUNDERSTORMS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY AND FOOTHILLS. THESE
THUNDERSTORMS MAY BE ACCOMPANIED BY GUSTY WINDS AND SMALL HAIL.
Source NOAA

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Gov. Schwarzenegger Announces Appointment of Copper Man

On December 13 2010 Gov. Schwarzenegger announced the appointment of Stephen Wooster, 61, of Copperopolis, to the Calaveras County Fair and Jumping Frog Jubilee Board of Directors (39th District Agricultural Association). Since 1988, Wooster has owned and served as manager of Wooster Ranch, a cattle ranching operation. Wooster is a member of California Cattlemen’s Association, Calaveras County Cattlemen’s Association and Calaveras County Junior Livestock Boosters.

Source http://gov.ca.gov/press-release/16717/

8 year old Jake Toberer Places at PacWest Calf Riding Competition

8 year old Jake Toberer, aka Jet, rode full rides on both of his calves at Saturdays PacWest Extreme Calf Riding competition in Jamestown riding away with a first place and a third place, winning the average. Jet was the only entrant his age that covered (rode) both of his calves for full rides. Up next, the competition on January 8th to compete in the 3rd and 4th events of the series.

Sand Bags Available at Copper Fire Station #1

In lieu of the recent flooding and projection of more flooding Copper Fire is now in possession of 800 sandbags for residents in need. If you need bags stop by Station #1 on Main Street or call 785-2393 for more information.
(Sandbags must be filled with your own sand.)

Union Mine Store Massive Blowout Sale

The Union Mine Store has lost its lease and is blowing out its inventory. All items in the gift store are 50% off and all items excluding cigarettes and coffee in the convenience store are 20% off.
Store is open from 6 am to 7 pm daily.
Fountain drinks only $1.00.
For more information call 785-2500.

National Weather Service Wind Advisory for Motherlode

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SACRAMENTO CA
240 AM PST SUN DEC 19 2010

CENTRAL SACRAMENTO VALLEY-SOUTHERN SACRAMENTO VALLEY-
CARQUINEZ STRAIT AND DELTA-NORTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY-MOTHERLODE-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...CHICO...STOCKTON...MODESTO...
GRASS VALLEY
240 AM PST SUN DEC 19 2010

...WIND ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 8 AM THIS MORNING TO 4 PM PST
THIS AFTERNOON...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN SACRAMENTO HAS ISSUED A WIND
ADVISORY...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM 8 AM THIS MORNING TO 4 PM PST
THIS AFTERNOON FOR THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SACRAMENTO VALLEY...
CARQUINEZ STRAIT AND DELTA...NORTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY AND
MOTHERLODE.

National Weather Service Flood Advisory Still in Effect

FLOOD ADVISORY
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SACRAMENTO CA
330 AM PST SUN DEC 19 2010

YOLO CA-STANISLAUS CA-SACRAMENTO CA-YUBA CA-NEVADA CA-PLACER CA-
SUTTER CA-SOLANO CA-TUOLUMNE CA-SAN JOAQUIN CA-TEHAMA CA-SHASTA CA-
BUTTE CA-GLENN CA-COLUSA CA-EL DORADO CA-CALAVERAS CA-AMADOR CA-
330 AM PST SUN DEC 19 2010

...THE URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOOD ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL
145 PM PST TODAY FOR WESTERN AMADOR...SOUTHWESTERN CALAVERAS...

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Local Author Book Signing at Once Upon a Time in Town Square

Calling all Chili Cooks

Its that time again...time to pull out your secret family recipe for chili and dust off those hearty spices to create and compete in the yearly Copperopolis Chili Cook-Off on January 29th in Town Square.
More information to follow as it comes in.
Stay tuned.

Vehicle Accident Reported Hwy 4 near Poole Station

Proceed with caution if you are in the area.

Walt Ball Resigns From Copper Fire Board

On December 9, 2010 the resignation of long time Board of Directors member Walt Ball was accepted amid tears and heavy hearts.

Walt Ball has served 14 years as a Director for the Copperopolis Fire Protection District, December 1995 to December 2010, bringing to the table years of firefighting experience in the Los Angeles area along with a distinguished Military record.

Chief Cantrell stated that Walt "always had encouraging words and atta boys" for all.
Walt desired "to do only what was best for the community" said office manager Belva Bristol.

Walt resigned due to a long term illness.

County Committee and Commission Vacancies

P U B L I C N O T I C E
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that due to unscheduled vacancies and expiration of terms, the Calaveras County Board of Supervisors encourages interested and qualified persons to apply for membership to the following County committees or commissions

READ MORE

Calaveras County Government Office Closures

With few exceptions, Calaveras County offices will be closed for business
December 23, 2010 – January 3, 2011 due to employee furloughs (unpaid leave) and holidays.
Furlough days: December 23, 28, 29, 30, 2010
County Holidays: December 24, 27, 31, 2010; January 3, 2011
Law enforcement and essential public health and safety services are available as follows:
Every day:
• Sheriff’s Office, Dispatch and Jail
• CalWorks and Human Services Agency – Emergency services
• Behavioral Health Services - Mental Health Crisis Response Services
• Public Works: Snow removal if necessary
Regular schedule but closed Christmas Day and New Years Day:
• Public Works’ Solid Waste: Landfill and Transfer Stations
Open during furlough days only:
• Airport
• Probation
• District Attorney
• Clerk-Recorder: open 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. to record documents only
• Elections: please refer to website for specific hours
• Driving Under-the Influence Program classes will be held Dec. 23, 2010
• The Superior Court, a state agency, will be open December 23, 27-30, 2010 and January 3, 2011.
For more information, check the County’s website at: www.co.calaveras.ca.us

Sandbags available at Copper Fire Station #1

In lieu of the recent flooding and projection of more flooding Copper Fire is now in possession of 800 sandbags for residents in need. If you need bags stop by Station #1 on Main Street or call 785-2393 for more information.
(Sandbags must be filled with your own sand.)

Santa to Visit Payless IGA Today, 12-18-10

Santa will be coming to greet all good boys and girls at Payless Market in Lake Tulloch Shopping Center today from 10:00 to 1:00.
Bring your camera, your smiles, and your wish list.

NOAA Flood Advisory

Warning Issue Date:
724 AM PST SAT DEC 18 2010
THE URBAN AND SMALL STREAM FLOOD ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 145 PM PST SATURDAY FOR WESTERN AMADOR...SOUTHWESTERN CALAVERAS... SOUTHWESTERN EL DORADO...EASTERN COLUSA...EASTERN GLENN...BUTTE... SOUTH CENTRAL SHASTA...CENTRAL TEHAMA...SAN JOAQUIN...SOUTHWESTERN TUOLUMNE...EASTERN SOLANO...SUTTER...SOUTHWESTERN PLACER... SOUTHWESTERN NEVADA...WESTERN YUBA...SACRAMENTO...NORTHERN STANISLAUS AND YOLO COUNTIES... AT 713 AM PST...RADAR IMAGERY CONTINUES TO INDICATE LIGHT TO MODERATE RAIN FALLING ACROSS THE REGION...WITH LOCALLY HEAVY RAIN POSSIBLE. MINOR OR NUISANCE TYPE FLOODING OF UNDERPASSES... ROADWAYS...AND OTHER LOW LYING AREAS HAS ALREADY BEEN REPORTED AND WILL CONTINUE THIS AFTERNOON. FALLEN LEAVES WILL LIKELY CLOG DRAINS...WHICH MAY ALSO CAUSE MINOR ROAD FLOODING. MEANWHILE....AREA STREAMS AND CREEK ARE STARTING TO RISE...WITH SOME MINOR FLOODING POSSIBLE LATE TONIGHT OR SATURDAY MORNING. TWO GAGES HAVE EXCEEDED FLOOD STAGE EARLY THIS MORNING. BOTH GAGES ARE LOCATED ON DEER CREEK...UPSTREAM OF SCOTT ROAD AND NEAR THE SCOTT ROAD IN EASTERN SACRAMENTO COUNTY IN THE VICINITY OF RANCHO MURIETA. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE INTO AREAS WHERE THE WATER COVERS THE ROADWAY. THE WATER DEPTH MAY BE TOO GREAT TO ALLOW YOUR CAR TO CROSS SAFELY. MOVE TO HIGHER GROUND.

Copper's Waterfalls

From Tabletop

Into Blackcreek

Friday, December 17, 2010

Local Baby Competing for Coveted 'Gerber Baby'

Copperopolis' own little Legend Smith is competing to become a Gerber Baby. If Legend wins he will earn a $25,000 college fund and be part of Gerber's advertising campaign, his face on products and advertising materials.



Click 'Vote for Baby' and follow instructions to help little Legend become a Gerber Baby.

NOAA Wind Advisory

Wind Advisory

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SACRAMENTO CA
216 PM PST FRI DEC 17 2010

...GUSTY WINDS EXPECTED TONIGHT...

.SOUTH TO SOUTHEAST WINDS WILL INCREASE AFTER MIDNIGHT AS A COLD
FRONT APPROACHES THE AREA. SUSTAINED WINDS WILL INCREASE TO 20 TO
30 MPH IMMEDIATELY AHEAD OF THE FRONT. GUSTS TO 40 MPH ARE
POSSIBLE TOWARD MORNING. THE GUSTY WINDS WILL DROP OFF QUICKLY
TOWARD MORNING AS THE FRONT SHIFTS EAST OF THE AREA. STRONG WINDS
WILL COMBINE WITH PERIODS OF HEAVY RAIN TO CREATE BLOWING DEBRIS
AND HAZARDOUS TRAVELING CONDITIONS TONIGHT.

American Legion Tickets Available at Payless IGA

AMERICAN LEGION POST 108 AMBULANCE SERVICE SUBSCRIPTION PROGRAM
COST
·  The cost of the annual ticket subscription is fifty dollars. ($50.00)
·  For active members of The American Legion the cost of the annual ticket subscription is thirty dollars ($30.00).
COVERAGE
·  Ticket covers spouses and legal dependents only. (NO EXCEPTIONS).
·   Subscribers must be residents of Amador or Calaveras Counties. Transports for ambulance service must originate or terminate within Amador or Calaveras Counties.
·  Ambulance transports are limited to 60 miles which covers Sacramento, Stockton and Modesto Areas. Transports over the 60 mile limit will be billed for mileage greater than 60 miles.
·  All qualified patients (meaning those persons whose doctor has designated the trip as a “medical necessity”, or who are “bed confined”) are covered.
TICKET TERM
·  The ticket is valid for one calendar    year from date of purchase.
DUTIES OF AMBULANCE SERVICE
·  American Legion Ambulance service will accept the assignment of whatever insurance patient possesses as full payment for services rendered, regardless of the amount of coverage or charges.
·  American Legion Ambulance service will use all reasonable steps to provide the transportation as requested unless conflicting circumstances ( e.g., prior response to emergency, etc.) prevent it.
DUTIES OF PURCHASER OF TICKET
·  Subscriber agrees to pursue in good faith all claims available to him/her for reimbursement of all of the ambulance service charges incurred by subscriber and agrees to furnish all insurance information to ambulance service and to process claims promptly.
·  Subscriber agrees to assign all interest in his/her claim for recovery of ambulance costs to American Legion Ambulance and hereby grants a lien to American Legion Ambulance on any recovery received, for the amount of the ambulance charges.
·  Upon such assignment and granting of a lien, American Legion Ambulance agrees to accept whatever amount is recovered as full payment of the ambulance charges.
·  Subscriber agrees that upon failure of subscriber to follow the above terms, American Legion Ambulance may, at its sole discretion, revoke this subscription; reimburse the price of the subscription and demand full payment for all services rendered.
NOTICE
·  Medicare prohibits Ambulance Services from waiving co-payments and deductibles.
·  American Legion Ambulance does NOT GUARANTEE performance under this agreement, but agrees to make best efforts to perform as circumstances permit.
PERSONS WITHOUT AMBULANCE TICKETS
·  American Legion Ambulance bills the insurance carrier for all charges incurred for the patient. If there is no insurance or if the insurance does not cover all or any portion of the bill, the patient is responsible to pay the unpaid bill.
MEDI-CAL
·  Medi-cal recipients do not require an Ambulance Ticket.