Thursday, March 31, 2011

Governor Brown Releases Twelve-Point Pension Reform Plan

- Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today released the actual bill language of seven separate pension reform measures.

In addition, Brown listed five other specific pension reforms that he is developing. These include a pension benefit cap, limits on post-retirement public employment, hybrid defined contribution/benefit options, an action plan to address CalSTRS unfunded liability, and a measure to change and improve the board governance of CalPERS and CalSTRS.

All 12 of these pension reform measures were presented and discussed in detail with Republican legislators. Talks broke down, however, over other issues.

Brown intends to introduce these pension reforms with or without Republican support.

Information on all twelve pension reforms is available below.

For bill language, please email elizabeth.ashford@gov.ca.gov.

READ MORE

Sheriff Office News Release

Criminal threats/burglery

NEWS RELEASE

History tidbit

Robert Wilhelm Eberhard Bunsen, inventor of the Bunsen Burner was born on this day in 1811.

Governor issues Proclamation - March 31 Cesar Chavez Day

 Governor Jerry Brown today issued a proclamation declaring Thursday, March 31, 2011 as “César Chávez Day” in the State of California.
READ MORE

Photo of Cesar Chavez from changetowin.com

Copperopolis Food Pantry Moves into New Location

Along with the Church of the Ascension, the Copperopolis Food Pantry has found a new home.

Governor Brown Ends State’s Drought Status, Urges Californians to Continue to Conserve

Brown today proclaimed an end to the state’s drought, but urged Californians to keep conserving water as we move into the spring and summer months.

“While this season’s storms have lifted us out of the drought, it’s critical that Californians continue to watch their water use,” Brown said. “Drought or no drought, demand for water in California always outstrips supply. Continued conservation is key.”

Today’s announcement follows the fourth snow survey of the season, conducted by the Department of Water Resources (DWR), which found that water content in California’s mountain snowpack is 165 percent of the April 1 full season average.

A majority of the state’s major reservoirs are also above normal storage levels. Lake Oroville in Butte County, the State Water Project’s principal reservoir, is 104 percent of average for the date (80 percent of its 3.5 million acre-foot capacity). Lake Shasta north of Redding, the federal Central Valley Project’s largest reservoir with a capacity of 4.5 million acre-feet, is at 111 percent of average (91 percent of capacity).

DWR estimates it will be able to deliver 70 percent of requested State Water Project (SWP) water this year. The estimate likely will be adjusted upward as hydrologists make adjustments for snowpack and runoff readings.

Given the heavy water inflow from the series of storms that have swept across California, the state’s flood managers are monitoring high river flows and making flood control releases from reservoirs to maintain storage space.

Governor Brown’s Proclamation officially rescinds Executive Order S-06-08, issued on June 4, 2008 and ends the States of Emergency called on June 12, 2008, and on February 27, 2009.

For additional information on California’s water supply, please visit the Department of Water Resources website at: http://www.water.ca.gov/.

READ PROCLAMATION

Damn Yankees at Bret Harte Theater TONIGHT!

Copper Moms – kids, giggles, and friendship

When Ileana, a resident of Copperopolis since 2006 began a mom and me group two years ago, she never dreamed it would turn out to be so much more.
Relatively new to the area and pregnant with her second child Ileana told her husband, a Manteca firefighter, that she really wanted a place where moms could get together and socialize while the kids played. He prompted her by suggesting she start a group…Copper Moms was born.
Ileana said that Copper Moms is an “informal group, where kids can get together and interact…grow socially.” She also said the moms have developed great friendships out of this and the group has gone on to include coffee dates, Christmas parties, and family bbq’s, where the husbands finally get to meet the women their wives have been talking about, putting a face to a name.
Copper Moms is open to all moms and all ages of children, “if a mom needs networking we would love to have her.” One mom said it was her first visit and was immediately chatting with someone about kids and work while her child began playing in the sand with the other children. Currently there are 28 moms on the playgroup list but they are all hoping to add more…the more the merrier.
The play group is held at Blackcreek Park every Tuesday morning rain or shine at 9:30 am. If its raining the group meets in the hall but if its sunny the kids enjoy the fun, sand filled park.
For more information on Copper Moms visit their Facebook page at Copper Moms


By, Charity Maness

CHP Smart Start Driving Classes

CHP SAN ANDREAS
HOSTS TEEN DRIVING CLASS
START SMART

San Andreas, CA - The California Highway Patrol (CHP) San Andreas Office is hosting free teen driver classes at the following locations:

SAN ANDREAS:  Wednesday, April 6th from , at Mark Twain Hospital
MURPHYS:  Friday, April 8th from , at Murphys Fire Dept.
JENNY LIND:  Tuesday, May 3rd from , at Jenny Lind Fire Dept.
COPPEROPOLIS:  Monday, May 9th from , at Copperopolis Fire Dept.

RSVPs must be made via telephone or in person to the San Andreas CHP Office.  Space is limited and at least one parent or guardian is required to attend with their teen.

The leading cause of death for Americans 15-20 years old is motor vehicle collisions, (According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the CHP’s goal is to reduce the death rate among teenagers as the result of these collisions.

In order to address this alarming trend, the CHP developed a program called Start Smart.  Start Smart is aimed at helping newly licensed and future licensed teenage drivers understand the critical responsibilities of driving and to understand that accidents do happen, but collisions are 100 percent preventable.

The primary objective of Start Smart is to provide teens and their parent/guardians with an interactive safe driving awareness class which will illustrate how poor choices behind the wheel of a car can affect the lives of numerous people.

The San Andreas CHP cordially invites teenagers and parents/guardians to attend a Start Smart class.  For more information or to make reservations for the class, please call (209) 754-3541.

Letter from Congressman Dan Lungren

Today is baseball’s opening day, but with the delayed negotiations, repeated stop-gap measures, and media attention, you’d think that setting government spending levels were America’s favorite pastime.  The second short-term continuing resolution (CR) expires next Friday, 49 days after the House passed a long-term CR that reduces government spending by $61 billion.  To date, the Senate has neglected to act on this legislation or pass its own spending bill.
The Senate’s inaction and failure to produce a plan has twice threatened a shutdown of the government.  Some of us have held out hope that maybe the third time is the charm and the Senate would be willing to take positive action to fund the government at reduced levels so that we can move on to other important matters before the nation. 
Unfortunately, we received indications earlier this week that the Senate still is not ready to play ball.  Reporters overheard one of the Senate’s top leaders giving what news outlets called “marching orders” to his colleagues.  These talking points included instructions to label any spending reductions proposed by the House as extreme.  If the Senate believes that any spending reduction is unreasonable, no wonder we find ourselves at an impasse.  The American people and the House do not want to continue the status quo, a suggestion we cannot take seriously when our debt consumes 62 percent of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP). 
Hopefully the Senate will reconsider as we try to avoid a government shutdown for the third time in as many months.  Because as all Americans know, “it’s one, two, three strikes, you’re out at the old ball game.”  And in this game, no one wins if the Senate strikes out looking. 
Sincerely,
Daniel E. Lungren
Member of Congress

Cesar Chavez Day

California has established an official state holiday to honor Latino labor leader Cesar Chavez. Cesar Chavez Day is intended to promote service to the community in honor of Chavez's life and work. This day will be celebrated on March 31st, in honor of Chavez's birthday, or the appropriate Monday or Friday nearest that date.

César Estrada Chávez  (March 31, 1927 – April 23, 1993) was an American farm worker, labor leader, and civil rights activist who, with Dolores Huerta, co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers (UFW).
A Mexican American, Chávez became the best known Latino civil rights activist, and was strongly promoted by the American labor movement eager to enroll Hispanic members. His public-relations approach to unionism and aggressive but nonviolent tactics made the farm workers' struggle a moral cause with nationwide support. By the late 1970s, his tactics had forced growers to recognize the UFW as the bargaining agent for 50,000 field workers in California and Florida. However, by the mid-1980s membership in the UFW had dwindled to around 15,000.

READ MORE from Wikipedia

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Copper Cougar 6th grade volleyball Advance in AMA Tournament

‎6th grade Cougars advance out of pool play in the AMA Tournament after sweeping Valley Springs #1 and Michelson. Play of the Night goes to Madison Bolen for saving the second game against Valley Springs. Entering to serve with us down 21-24, she served for 5 straight points in a pressure packed situation to help us take the game 26-24. What a comeback!!!

Write up from Coach Aaron Stafford

25-12 Copper and Valley game 1, Copper Win
Game 2 26-24 Copper win.
Copper and Michaelson game 1, 25-13 Copper win
Game 2 25-12 Copper win.

Scores from Copper Volleyball FB page

GO COUGARS GO!!!

This Day in History...President Ronald Reagan Shot 3-30-81

On March 30, 1981, President Ronald Reagan is shot in the chest outside a Washington, D.C., hotel by a deranged drifter named John Hinckley Jr.
The president had just finished addressing a labor meeting at the Washington Hilton Hotel and was walking with his entourage to his limousine when Hinckley, standing among a group of reporters, fired six shots at the president, hitting Reagan and three of his attendants. White House Press Secretary James Brady was shot in the head and critically wounded, Secret Service agent Timothy McCarthy was shot in the side, and District of Columbia policeman Thomas Delahaney was shot in the neck. After firing the shots, Hinckley was overpowered and pinned against a wall, and President Reagan, apparently unaware that he'd been shot, was shoved into his limousine by a Secret Service agent and rushed to the hospital.

READ MORE

Photo from theromanceclub.com

Governor Brown You Tube address

Early this week Governor Jerry Brown detailed why he broke off discussions with Republican legislators on the budget via a YouTube address.

The 1-minute, 40-second video can be viewed here: http://www.youtube.com/GovernorBrown.

The Church of the Ascension Moves to a New Home

The movers..(and shakers) of the community came together on Wednesday in a flurry of human activity, loading and unloading a multitude of horse trailers and flatbeds, to help move the Church of the Ascension to its new location…90 Rock Creek Road Suite 5!

Welcome to your new home…





Governor Brown Issues Proclamation - March 30, 2011 "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day"

Governor Jerry Brown today issued a proclamation declaring Wednesday, March 30, 2011 as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” in the State of California.

The text of the proclamation is below:

PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA


America is a symbol of freedom and has achieved its stature in the world because of the selfless service of our brave veterans. From those who fought in the Revolutionary War to those currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, the fearless members of our country’s armed forces have given up the comforts of home, the company of loved ones and, for some, even their own lives so that we could live in our land of liberty.

Our Vietnam veterans fought for our freedoms, kept America safe and dedicated their lives to this nation. We are forever thankful for their unwavering strength and courage while fighting in the Vietnam War. We join together to express our gratitude, remember their service and say “welcome home.”

On Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day, we honor the immeasurable sacrifices and contributions our Vietnam War veterans have made to protect the life, liberty and happiness of every Californian and every American. All veterans deserve our deepest respect. May we always remember the heroism and courage of those who have served and those who continue to serve.

NOW THEREFORE I, EDMUND G. BROWN JR., Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim March 30th as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day.”

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 29th day of March 2011.


___________________________________
EDMUND G. BROWN JR.
Governor of California

Calaveras County Taxpayers Association Luncheon update

Last minute news about our luncheon tomorrow in Murphys. In addition to our main speaker Jon Coupal of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, we will have Darrell Wilburn giving us a report on the CalPERS issue and David Tunno will be reporting on what FEMA has been doing in Calaveras county. David did an excellent study of FEMA activity.
We have some seats available. If you haven't signed up yet and want to attend, please call me 785-1491.

Fancy Pans has New Owner

When Leslie Watkins heard that Donna Evans may be selling her favorite kitchen store, she couldn’t help but wander over and express her interest. Though she thought it couldn’t be possible, a deal was struck and Fancy Pans became hers the last week of February.
Leslie and Jon Watkins, residents of Copperopolis since 1999, have always had the thought in the back of their minds as to what type of business they could enjoy until and in their retirement. Jon works in Tracy at YRC, where Leslie also put in many years, and he holds a Contractors’ license in Calaveras. But both knew they would want to find just the right business “to run until they retired.” 
“I just love this kitchen store.” Leslie beamed when she was explaining how she would continue the wonderful lines that Donna has carried and will add some of her own. She also hopes to have cooking classes, demonstrations and a few other surprises up her sleeve. She said that Jon “has been extremely handy” helping  out where needed, pointing to some new shelving and some heavy furniture that had been moved, along with some new ‘manly’ bbq supplies.
Leslie has installed a television that will run Food Network and other various cooking shows. And will be carrying recipes for sauces and jelly’s that she carries.
Don’t be surprised if you find their youngest daughter, Jonnie 16, manning the counter. Apparently she is a kitchen store aficionado.
Leslie hopes to bring out a few surprises at the May 7, Lions Club car show in Town Square. Unfortunately she would not even hint as to what those surprises may be…I guess we will just have to attend the car show to find out. Sounds like a great plan, cooking and cars…something for everyone!
Fancy Pans is open Wednesday through Monday 11-5. 785-7300.
Their online store will be up and running soon.



More Spring Fling Photos

Saturday nights Spring Fling dinner dance organized by Bret Harte Seniors Elysa Schulte and Samantha Baxter, to benefit the Copper Parks and Rec Kids Camp, was fabulous.



MORE PICTURES

Copperopolis Country Run May 14th

9/11 Stair Climb Looking for Firefighters to Honor the 343 FDNY Fallen

This year marks the 10 year anniversay of the attack on the Twin Towers. A DECADE NOW!
We are asking 343 Firefighters from all over: Paid, Volunteer, Retired and Cadets to climb 110 floors (untimed) wearing a name panel of one of the 343 fallen FDNY.
You will only need your turnout coat, T-shirt, shorts, and athletic shoes. Helmets are optional. No FF equipment (ie: air packs, axes etc.).
Along with bagpipers, photographers, volunteers and news media, all family and friends are welcome. Bring that camera!
THIS IS NOT JUST A MEMORIAL FOR THE FALLEN 343, BUT IT IS AN ANNIVERSARY FOR THE FRIENDS AND FAMILY LEFT BEHIND!
When: September 10, 2011 at 07:30 Check-in / Climb - 09:00 -(un-timed)
Where: ORACLE, 300 Oracle Parkway, Redwood City, CA 94065
If you have any questions or want to volunteer, please contact Mickey Noack at mnoack@redwoodcity.org.
CLICK HERE to download a registration form.
For more information, visit www.redwood-city911stairclimb.com/

VFW Formation Meeting 4-3-11

There will be a VFW formation meeting held this Saturday, 4-3-11, at 2:00 pm at Micki & Larry's Sports Pub in Copper.
For more information please contact Michael ay 981-7400

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Bret Harte Sends Two Students to CIF State Wrestling Tournament in early March


 The “big house” of Rabobank Arena proved too much for the Fantastic Four of Calaveras County. All four local state wrestling qualifiers ended their outstanding wrestling year earlier than they had dreamed.
“This is State, only the best-of-the-best are here,” said Bret Harte Head Coach Zack Abernathy. “Nanik and Sherrow had a great year and simply qualifying out of our Masters is an accomplishment in itself. We had thought we could win a couple today and even dreamed of the medal stand, but this is a tough place to make it in.”
“There is not much that separates any of the wrestlers here. You have a standout that gets first, but this is the top 40 of the state. You don’t get here by chance. The only other thing is, how many great wrestlers ended their season at Masters,” said Abernathy. “When you look at who made the top 8 in each weight division most of them all have one thing in common – they come from big schools, or large metropolitan areas that have greater opportunities for year-round wrestling. Even though Nanik and Sherrow worked out year-round we just don’t have enough kids to make it a true year-round sport like other programs such as Bakersfield or Poway.”
For senior Devin Nanik, this isn’t the end of his wrestling career.
READ MORE

Governor Jerry Brown today issued the following statement on his decision to halt budget negotiations:

"Yesterday, I stopped the discussions that I had been conducting with various members of the Republican party regarding our state’s massive deficit.

The budget plan that I put forth is balanced between deep cuts and extensions of currently existing taxes and I believe it is in the best interest of California. Under our constitution, however, two Republicans from the Assembly and two from the Senate must agree before this matter can be put to the people.

Each and every Republican legislator I’ve spoken to believes that voters should not have this right to vote unless I agree to an ever changing list of collateral demands.

Let me be clear: I support pension reform, regulatory reform and a spending cap and offered specific and detailed proposals for each of these during our discussions. While we made significant progress on these reform issues, the Republicans continued to insist on including demands that would materially undermine any semblance of a balanced budget. In fact, they sought to worsen the state’s problem by creating a $4 billion hole in the budget.

One glaring example is the taxation of multinational corporations. My budget plan requires that gigantic corporations be treated the same as individual taxpayers and not be allowed to choose their preferred tax rate.

This is the so-called single sales factor. The Republicans demand that out-of-state corporations that keep jobs out of California be given a billion dollar tax break that will come from our schoolchildren, public safety and our universities. This I am not willing to do.

Much is at stake, and in the coming weeks I will focus my efforts on speaking directly to Californians and coming up with honest and real solutions to our budget crisis.

Attached is my letter to Republican Leader Dutton last Friday that outlines in greater detail my position."

LETTER to Repulican Leader Dutton

Comment rules...again...

We are so sorry to have to print this yet again, but it seems there is still some confusion as to the comment rules.
First and foremost there MUST be a name attached to the comment, no name, no posting, period.
No slander. No racial, religious, or sexual slurs. If stating what you believe to be fact, please double check your information before commenting.
After writing your comment in the comment box provided you will be prompted to check a status, please check anonymous. This is just a post selection, this does NOT make your post anonymous.
That will be followed by a spam filter code. Enter that and you're good to go.
Community input is always welcome.
Thank you.
The Staff at Copper Gazette

Copper Kids Club - Wednesday


March 30—Helping Out
· Key Bible Verse:Proverbs 3:27 Do not withhold good from those who deserve it when it's in your power to help them.
· Life Application:I can help my family members.

Wednesday 4-5:30 at Blackcreek Park
785-9295

Copper Fire Flushing Water Lines

According to a CCWD representative if you notice a slight discoloration in your water it is caused from the flushing of minerals that had deposited on the sides of the pipe being flushed out at a high rate of water flow.

CFPD operates an ongoing maintenance program that systematically checks all hydrants within the 225 square mile district checking for flow rate, clearing debris from around the hydrant and painting them if needed.

If you notice discoloration you can contact CCWD at 754-3543.

Comment Instructions

Recently there has been an influx of comments without a name signed to them. If you would like your comment posted please remember to sign your name to the comment, either first name last initial or first initial last name.
No slander. No racial, religious, or sexual slurs. If stating what you believe to be fact, please double check your information before commenting.
After writing your comment in the comment box provided you will be prompted to check a status, please check anonymous. This is just a post selection, this does NOT make your post anonymous.
That will be followed by a spam filter code. Enter that and you're good to go.
Community input is always welcome.
Thank you.
The Staff at Copper Gazette

"Naked, Drunk and Writing" How's that for a bankable title?

Writing Workshop

     The best selling author, memoirist Adair Lara, will be our headline speaker and workshop leader at the 6th Annual Gold Rush Writers Conference.

       Once again we'll be centered at the Leger Hotel, in the picturesque Gold Country town of Mokelumne Hill, CA.  Dates are April 29, 30, and May 1.

     At this minute only three slots remain in some of our workshops.  On March 30th, the current introductory price of $145 rockets to $175.  Of course, $175 is cheap at twice the price, but why pay extra?

     We offer you a choice of 16 workshops that run the gamet from futuristic fiction to memoir writing.  A new  master class has just been added to be taught by Sally Ashton, Poet Laureate of Santa Clara  County.

     A writer whose first novel sold for $100,000 will tell you step by step how she did it.  Or, if you don't wish to go that route,  we'll take you step by step through self publishing.

  You'll find workshops tailored to craft enhancement--dialogue, POV, plot, scene and character development--as well as poetry, novel, short story writing and current marketing trends.

     Tom Johnson, Gold Rush's computer genius, will be back this year to demonstrate just how effective social media marketing can be. See how it can work for you.

      Bill LeBlond, senior editor  of Chronicle Books, will reveal what every editor wants to see.     But those are only a few of many workshops that can change your writing life.

     We've a very strong conference this year, better than ever.  Go to www.goldrushwriters.com and see for yourself.  Remember, too, that the current price of $145 includes a picnic supper  dinner and brunch--besides the extra panels and talks.  It hardly pays to stay home!

     Because a number of our workshops are limited. we encourage you to sign up now at 

http://www.goldrushwriters.com/
  

Spellman Forum Re-Cap 3-24-11

On Thursday 24, 2011 Supervisor Spellman met with residents of Copperopolis at his weekly forum at Snaps Coffee House in Town Square.
He discussed the Tuscany Hills Project and their anticipated 501 (c)3 and how it could potentially benefit the community at large with the possibility of a community building such as a library. He syas he feels “they (the Tuscany Developers) are showing the community their support.”
Revisiting the possibility that the Sheriff Office expects to see a 500K budget shortfall Spellman looked at the Planning Department budget of 1.5 million, of which 500k is allocated for consultants, which he pointed out were not from the area. With building down he felt that the 500k that is allocated for consultants can be put to better use at the Sheriff Office.
When asked if the BOS had created the positions of assistant CAO and office assistant after cutting 17% across the board, Spellman verified this and replied, “they (the Board of Supervisors) were unscrupulous” in their actions with regards to the creation of the two new positions at “a cost of approximately 175k per year “which equaled 8% of the projected shortfall” for the 10/11 budget.
Spellman brought up a letter to the Editor written recently by the owner of the Valley Springs Times, questioning why the county contract for legal ads had not been put out to bid since 2007. Spellman also stated that in order to bid on that contract the newspaper, not news site, must be printed in Calaveras County, calling into question the outsourcing of the Enterprise. Spellman also stated “as a steward for the tax payers dollars” that during the process of “looking into” the contract rules, the County discovered that they had been printing items that simply needed to be posted in public view, not printed in a newspaper and circulated, equaling a yearly savings of approximately 12k on ads.
According to Spellman, the Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 to op out of the travel expense reimbursement of p to $2,200/year; a savings to the County of 11k per year.

Cruisers Ice Cream Parlor Nominated for Best Ice Cream Parlor

Copperopolis, CA - March 28, 2011 - Cruisers Ice Cream Parlor has been nominated to be named the BEST Ice Cream Shop on the KCRA 3 A-List and needs your vote! First, you need to join the KCRA 3 A-List to get your ballot.

To vote for Cruisers Ice Cream Parlor, follow this link:  Vote for Cruisers
You will not get spammed or have to sign up for anything. 
 
About the KCRA 3 A-List
The KCRA 3 A-List is a contest where YOUR votes are all that matter in determining the BEST. Vote for your favorite businesses and show your support by spreading the word. You'll impact the contest and earn rewards along the way.

Happy Voting,
- Your Friends @ the A-List

On this day in History....

Mar 29, 1973:

U.S. withdraws from Vietnam

Two months after the signing of the Vietnam peace agreement, the last U.S. combat troops leave South Vietnam as Hanoi frees the remaining American prisoners of war held in North Vietnam. America's direct eight-year intervention in the Vietnam War was at an end. In Saigon, some 7,000 U.S. Department of Defense civilian employees remained behind to aid South Vietnam in conducting what looked to be a fierce and ongoing war with communist North Vietnam

READ MORE

Copper School Runs Lock-Down Drill

On Tuesday morning, 3-29-11, Resident Deputy Newnam, Deputy Dorsey, MTUESD Operations Manager Bill Davis, MTUESD Superintendent Julia Tidball, and MTUESD lead custodian Jill Douglass, organized and implemented a surprise lock-down drill for the faculty and students of Copperopolis Elementary School.
Lock-downs are a procedure that is put in place to ensure the safety of the children should an intruder or danger enter the campus. According to Mr. Davis all faculty attended an in-service day prior to the beginning of the school year covering everything from earthquakes to fires, from shooter to suspicious persons. Fire drills are completed monthly whereas lock-down-drills are conducted yearly. All teachers have an emergency ‘bucket’ in their room containing water, protein bars, flashlight, tarp, and other safety supplies.
When the alarm sounded each teacher quickly locked their doors, and proceeded to follow the guidelines set up to protect and hide the children within their classroom, all the while keeping them away from the windows. The campus was sealed in less than four minutes. All exterior gates were locked, all bathrooms were checked, the playground was cleared and the children and faculty were safely ensconced behind locked doors.
When the drill was complete the announcement was made over the loudspeaker and the cheering of little voices could be heard behind the previously silent walls of the classrooms.
One parent showed up on the scene a few moments prior to the drill and was briefed on what was happening; she was extremely grateful that they (the staff and local law enforcement) were making her child’s school a safe place.
Deputy Chris Dorsey has been with the CCSO for 5 years and wears the uniform of the Bomb Squad. He attended a special school in Huntsville Alabama to obtain his Bomb training. Working out of the OES department he is coordinating with other schools obtaining maps of their campuses and dates of their drills so that he can be present, placing the school and law enforcement “on the same page…giving them advice and becoming familiar with the campus.”



By, Charity Maness

Monday, March 28, 2011

Spellman Blog Post - FEMA Flood Map Scam

In an attempt to pay for unsustainable and illogical government policies for flood mismanagement it appears that the answer is to create bogus flood maps that require more than twice as many people to purchase flood insurance, which by the way will be sold to you through “Uncle Sam” at a low low price that you can afford.
Here is a link to a wonderful article written by a local investigative reporter with examples from our own county to illustrate how crazy this money raking scheme is. If you haven’t received a bill in the mail yet for your new flood insurance, hold on to your wallet. FEMA is conducting a nationwide scam and we are not immune to it even here in little old Calaveras County.
Link to DAVID TUNNO article. titled, 'FEMA's Flood of Falsehoods'
I will do what I can to continue to post upcoming information on this subject as this is just the beginning of what could be a major issue.

Sierra Rep Hosting 'Community Feud' for Charity

Community Groups Can Benefit Playing Sierra Rep’s Annual Community Feud
            Sierra Rep is looking for community groups to play Community Feud, a friendly competition styled after the popular television game show “Family Feud.” A total of 16 four-person teams from local businesses and community organizations compete to win our grand prize worth up to $5,000 for their favorite charity. Teams may be charitable organizations or businesses playing for charity.
            For two nights of goofy fun, May 16 & 17, teams will face off, winning points by guessing the most popular responses to survey questions about everyday things like, Name something you eat with peanut butter or Name a sport that doesn’t include a ball. No preparation is necessary! Slots are still available but are on a first come, first served basis.
            The prize is up to 270 tickets to a Sierra Rep preview performance in our 2012 season. Those tickets can be sold as an easy fund raising event for the charity of the winner’s choice, and the Sonora Area Foundation will double the winnings by matching ticket sales (up to $2,700). Past winners have included groups like the Friends of Tuolumne County Library, Twain Harte Soroptimists, WATCH, Black Hats, VNA-Hospice, and California Realty.
            The team entry fee is $250, which includes 25 tickets to their preliminary round for their cheering section. Tickets for spectators are $10 per person per night. To sign up your group, contact Kim Mathie at (209) 532-0502, ext 105. For tickets, call Sierra Rep’s box office at 532-3120 or visit us at www.sierrarep.org.

Central Sierra Audubon Newsletter

The Central Sierra Audubon Society, which includes both Tuolumne and Calaveras counties is a chapter of the National Audubon Society and affiliated with Audubon of California. Central Sierra Audubon supports the mission of the National Audubon Society which is: to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife and their habitats, for the benefit of humanity and the Earth's biodiversity.
NEWSLETTER

'Lend me a Tenor' - Fast paced, Fun, Frivolity!

If an opening scene sets the stage for an entire performance, then let it be said that the opening scene of “Lend Me a Tenor” by the Murphy’s Creek Theatre set the scene perfectly; priming the audience for an uproariously comical performance. The wit, the skill, and the seemingly effortlessness that each actor possessed in delivering their lines at precisely the right moment to achieve the greatest theatrical impact was astounding.
The skill Director Terri Wilson brought with her from years of directing the Calaveras Follies was apparent in this production. A cross between a melodrama, a theatrical performance, and a Millie Vanillie style lip sync was nothing short of perfection.
Andrew Gary –Scott, the bellhop, gave a hilarious performance as the over eager opera fan, switching his charm on and off at will, while willing to literally throw himself at the feet of a great star. Casting was spot on with Gary-Scott, with his clear ability to communicate to the audience exactly what he was thinking with one look or one action, leaving the audience in stitches.
Kate Gonzales, Maggie, shined as a love struck fan of Tito Merelli, playing the part to the hilt of the love sick child within the woman, seemingly willing to do anything to win the affection of the great star, all the while unwittingly fanning the fires of miscommunication.
Sean Lewis, Max, was extraordinary. Without giving away too much of the story line, suffice it to say, Max may have an unassuming passive side, yet when able to don a disguise, finds within himself a great man waiting to come out, that is of course after he accidently poisons the star, cheats on the love of his life with the love of his life (yes you read that right), blackmails the boss, and narrowly evades the grasp of a forward and promiscuous fan. There is more, but that would ruin your fun.
The finale was a mastery of directorial skill. The culmination of miscommunication, adoration, and  wishful fornication, all delivered at the rate of a high speed chase.
Bravo again to the Murphy’s Creek Theatre, ‘Lend Me a Tenor’ is a creation worthy of your theater.
For tickets and showtimes visit Murphys Creek Theatre


Sunday, March 27, 2011

Cruiser's 3rd Birthday Party Bash

Welcoming party goers to Town Square on Satruday afternoon were none other than Zack Zimmerman and Jordan Tooker dressed as an ice cream cone and a hotdog. They danced, they pranced, they were the epitome of a home grown welcoming party, making everyone want to join the fun.
As one entered Cruiser's through their balloon decorated entrance the fist thing one noticed was the festive ambiance, ballons, streamers, and Mr. Looney Balloons creating balloon creations of all kinds. Each table was full and the party goer's were having a blast!
Anyone that spun the wheel won a prize; from coffee cups to ice cream cones, from Cruiser's pens to a 10k ice cream cone necklace, with the ultimate win being the 8 scoop super sized sundae won by Victoria of Stockton. Victoria was literally speechles and not certain how to devour the huge sundae,though her mother did nicely offer her assistance.
The party began at 12:00 and lasted til a bit past 3:00.
Congratualtions Cruiser's on delivering 3 years of tasty fun to Copperopolis!

Zack and Jordan

Mr. Looney Balloons

Christina's balloon penguin.
For more Cruiser's Birthday Bash photos click HERE

Copperopolis Elementary Science Fair

Parents and community members are invited to view the 4th-6th grade Science Fair projects  on Tuesday, April 5th from 5:30 – 6:30 in the Copperopolis Elementary School gym.
First and Second place winner from each classroom will represent Copperopolis Elementary at the County Science Fair on April 16, 2011.
Come see Copper's bright kids in action.


Spring Fling Dinner Dance a Success

Elysa Schulte and Sam Baxter, Bret Harte Seniors, pulled off an amazing evening for the community at their senior project Spring Fling Dinner Dance Saturday evening 3-26-11.

Their project benefited an organization close to their hearts; the Copperopolis Parks and Rec's Kids Camp.

Planning an event of such caliber took many months and the help of many people within this tight knit community.
The girls organized a group of aspiring seamstresses and creative minds to piece together a one of a kind nature quilt for raffle. They organized live music, ticket sales, hall rental, licenses, cooks, servers, and more, all to bring the residents of Copperopolis a fun filled evening that woud benefit the Kids Camp.

Well done Elysa and Sam...well done!




MORE PICTURES

CCWD- Cost Saving Efforts Result in Refunds for the Community (Valley Springs)


SAN ANDREAS, CA – Valley Springs residents in the DaLee/Cassidy Water System
Assessment District area will be receiving refunds from CCWD in the form of a refund
check and/or reduction in their yearly assessments.
Due to the cost saving efforts by CCWD’s staff and its management of the construction,
the actual cost of the DaLee/Cassidy water system improvements came in below the
initial projected cost by approximately $85,000. With construction finishing nearly
seventy days ahead of schedule and within budget, the CCWD Board, at its February
board meeting, decided to give the remaining funds back to the community rather than
absorb it into a designated maintenance budget as is typically done in assessment
district proceedings.
“This project was a great effort by staff, especially the field crew and the project team
who worked hard to help the residents,” said Board President Davidson. “The best part
was the close working relationship and trust that we were able to build with the
community.” Residents attending the board meeting expressed their appreciation for a
successful partnership between a community in need and CCWD.
Whether or not the residents get a refund check and/or receive a reduction in their
annual assessment depends on their individual financing approach. For those who paid
for the improvements upfront, they’ll receive a refund check. Others who financed the
improvements will receive a reduction in their annual assessment. Along with the
detailed CCWD February Board memo, which was mailed out to the residents, they will
also be receiving individual letters to let them know what they can expect in savings
based on their financing decisions.
In July 2010, DaLee/Cassidy residents voted to approve the formation of an
assessment district to receive water from CCWD. Many of their wells had either dried
up or were starting to fail, which drove the residents to haul water to their homes. The
community and CCWD staff worked closely to keep costs down to mitigate the financial
hardship on the residents. Both the CCWD Board and staff committed to making every
effort to contain cost and expedite the delivery of water.
Throughout the project, CCWD conducted extensive outreach to the residents to keep
them informed and responded timely to any concerns. During these tough economic
times, cooperation and trust were critical in the overall success of this project.
Calaveras County Water District is a public agency committed to meeting the diverse
needs of the historical gold country that spans 1,100 square miles. CCWD is
responsible for potable water delivery, wastewater collection, recycled water distribution
and hydroelectric power operation within the Calaveras County. Through responsible
management and innovative planning, CCWD strives to protect the region’s rich
resources and advance its mission to serve the public.
###

 

Calaveras County Water District Delivers on Its Commitment to
DaLee/Cassidy Assessment District Residents
Cost Saving Efforts Result in Refunds for the Community

CCWD Thanks Lungren

SAN ANDREAS, CA – Calaveras County Water District (CCWD) Board members and
staff met with Congressman Dan Lungren to express thanks and share ideas to improve
regional economy utilizing its most precious asset – water.
As a long-time supporter of CCWD, Congressman Lungren continues to be instrumental
in the District’s efforts to secure federal funds during tough economic times. Since his
last visit at the District in 2010, CCWD has worked with U.S. Department of Agriculture,
Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and other
federal and state agencies to identify funding opportunities to implement much-needed
projects in the county.
“Since my last visit, it’s great to see so much has happened, and I will continue to work
with my staff to support CCWD in providing regional benefit and leadership,” said
Congressman Lungren.
CCWD representatives provided an overview of pending state and federal applications,
which include the Big Trees Redwood Storage Tank project and the Vallecito-Douglas
Flat Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion. The presentation also addressed CCWD’s
ongoing efforts to expand delivery of its rich water supply throughout the county and
meet the growing demand.
Congressman Lungren offered valuable insights and guidance to help the District better
understand the nature of the current federal budget process and plan for its future
needs. The CCWD Board President Jeff Davidson stated on behalf of the Board, “We
really appreciate Congressman Lungren and his staff’s support over the years, and we
thank him for taking the time to meet with us one on one to see how else he can help
us.”
CCWD Photo (from left to right): Director Philip McCartney; Board Vice President Don Stump;
Congressman Dan Lungren; Board President Jeff Davidson; Director Dennis Dooley; and Joone Lopez,
General Manager
Calaveras County Water District is a public agency committed to meeting the diverse
needs of the historical gold country that spans 1,100 square miles. CCWD is
responsible for potable water delivery, wastewater collection, recycled water distribution
and hydroelectric power operation within the Calaveras County. Through responsible
management and innovative planning, CCWD strives to protect the region’s rich
resources and advance its mission to serve the public.




###

A Conversation with Congressman Dan Lungren

Calaveras County Water District Thanks its Long-Time Supporter

Getting Old is Just a change of Perspective . . .by, The Copper Curmudgeon

When I was a kid my Grandpa used to say, “You know when you are getting old because you hear the snap, crackle and pop and you haven’t poured the milk on your Rice Krispies yet.” That always struck me as funny because I loved listening to that noise when the milk went on my Rice Krispies. But this was also the same man that carried a flask in his shirt pocket that was for, “Snakebite and moonstroke”.

But then I hit fifty something . . .  and one morning I was walking down the hallway, my left elbow popped, then my right knee snapped and both my feet made bone noises that . . . well I wouldn’t call it a crackle . . . and Grandpa’s saying wasn’t so darn funny anymore . . . just a change of perspective.


Saturday, March 26, 2011

Traveling Vietnam Wall

Father, husband, son, brother, friend...
You will never be forgotten....



Click here for MORE PICTURES

The Traveling Wall will be on display through Sunday March 27 at the Motherlode Fairgrounds in Sonora.

A Horse Janitor- The City Girl’s Guide to the Country ~ By, Tori


Now, not growing up in the country, I have a lot to learn about how things really work when it comes to horses.

I board my horse, and I was asked if I wanted to work a few hours a month to credit toward the monthly fees I pay for my horse’s care. I jumped at the chance, firstly, because who doesn’t like to get a discount? And secondly, never having been in a barn before, I thought it would be great fun, and I’d learn things at a faster pace in a “hands on” setting. Boy, was I right about the “hands on” part!

So, in order to educate anyone who may not already know, I’ve put together a little guide on the finer art of cleaning up after horses, which can also be called, “How Did  My Shoes and My Hands Get Covered in the Same Muck?” Let’s begin:

1. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Most likely, you’ll think your favorite jeans and shirt are perfect for the first time. After that, you’ll learn that the horses don’t care what you’re wearing, and you’ll just snag your favorite top on a fence anyway.

READ MORE

CCWD Press Release

CCWD Gearing Up for Round 3 of the Storm Season
Crews work around the clock to stay fully operational
Calaveras County Water District (CCWD) plans to continue its
record of staying fully operational during this historical storm season. The last two
storms rendered thousands of residents along the Ebbetts Pass area without power and
access to roadways, but the water continued to flow.
CCWD staff continues to work day and night to respond to any emergencies and
monitor the system to ensure delivery. The District maintains close coordination with
local and state agencies, which is critical during emergency situations, to share
information and resources.
Over the years, the District invested in back-up generators and Supervisory Control and
Data Acquisition (SCADA) technology to weather through these harsh conditions. While
there are no guarantees, through sound planning and hard work, CCWD is able to
provide water to the residents – some who are stranded in their homes.
CCWD recognizes that while we can survive without power and transportation, we
cannot do without water. We take great pride in knowing that every member of the
District remains committed to ensuring safe and reliable supply for our customers.
Calaveras County Water District is a public agency committed to meeting the diverse
needs of the historical gold country that spans 1,100 square miles. CCWD is
responsible for potable water delivery, wastewater collection, recycled water distribution
and hydroelectric power operation within the Calaveras County. Through responsible
management and innovative planning, CCWD strives to protect the region’s rich
resources and advance its mission to serve the public.

Karaoke TONIGHT at the Sports Pub

Come enjoy some Karaoke fun at the Sports Pub tonight from 8 to midnight. 785-4646

Cruiser's 3rd Anniversary Party TODAY

Come join Cruiser’s for an anniversary party March 26, 2011!
Spin the wheel for prizes, watch in wonder as ‘Looney Balloons’ creates amazing balloon animals for you and your children.
And of course, come inside and enjoy an amazing selection of ice creams, along with hot dogs, onion rings, curley fries, and so much more!
Mark your calendars.
Hope to see you there!
Steve & Donna Hutchings
Festivities begin at noon!!!
 

CCWD Board Meeting Agenda 3-29-11

AGENDA

Friday, March 25, 2011

Salt Springs Valley Reservoir Hosting a Windmill Sailboat Regatta April 2,2011

A regatta is a series of  boat races; the April 2 regatta hosted by Salt Sptings Valley Reservoir will be a sailboat regatta, specifically Windmill sailboats.

What is a Windmill? A Windmill is a 15 1/2 foot, 2-person racing dinghy designed by boat-builder Clark Mills in 1953. The Windmill is a born racer. Its narrow, hard-chined planing hull provides high performance. Being one of the fastest non-trapeze, non-spinnaker sail boats, makes the Windmill accessible to a wide range of sailing skills.

If all that information was too much to digest, here are some interesting tidbits:
A Windmill is approximately 225 pounds and can be towed with a light trailer, great for a first time sailor or families wanting to learn. A plus…one need not possess a body of steel to maneuver a sailboat, though Windmill sailors are usually fit or become so through the sailing adventure.
Windmills are a romantic day get-away and cost between $1000 and $2500.
And finally, Windmills are built for speed, they are fast!

To see what all the hub-bub is about, plan on a visit to Salt Springs Valley Reservoir Regatta on April 2nd to see the beauty, speed, and fun of sailing.

With a hull weight ofpounds, a Windmill easily be towed on a light duty trailer by a compact car. One member of our fleet tows his with a Mazda 3.

Letter from Dan Lungren - Big Spenders and Bureaucrat​s Beware

These are rare and exciting times in our nation. I can’t recall when the general public has been so current and informed on the day-to-day happenings of Congress.
Relatively obscure concepts such as continuing resolutions, lending practices, foreign policy and domestic energy strategy have been in the water of every discussion since I returned home for the District Work Period earlier this week. The intent and spirit of the U.S. Constitution has been a constant subject of our meetings.
Wherever I went people enthusiastically participated in the ebb and flow of the conversation. I saw and heard similarly engaged groups at two different Folsom high school events; among business leaders at chamber gatherings in Citrus Heights and downtown Sacramento; during briefings with utilities, aerospace companies and even amid a group of Foothill vintners in Calaveras County.
No matter where I ventured two subjects dominated discussions: the perilous budgetary practices of government and the toll of unemployment that is being aided and abetted by new and continuing over-regulation.
Nowhere was this more apparent than during exchanges I had with those attending our Town Hall at the Citrus Heights community center Tuesday. Some 225 people came out, many who wanted assurance that aggressive federal spending cuts would continue unabated – or at least until Washington showed evidence of fiscal restraint and the unleashing of the private sector job creation machine.
I had good news and bad news on that front. Whereas we in the House had worked through two Continuing Resolutions to reduce spending by $10 billion over the last several weeks, I cringed when informing constituents that during the month of February alone our deficit increased by $228 billion.
Most of my colleagues in the House get it, and we understand that the people we represent get it. But there remains a chasm between these hardworking Americans on the ground and those in the rarified Washington air who no longer face the people or reality. A prime and actual example of the disconnect: suggesting that defunding public broadcasting ought to be balanced by some sort of quid pro quo for reduction on the amount we spend on national defense! 
Similarly, the people are fed up with federal regulations that stifle the economy, growth and contribute to some of the highest sustained unemployment figures in the country.  For this reason I explained my “no vote” on the Dodd-Frank Act to the California Association of Mortgage Professionals. That legislation creates a terrible precedent in the mortgage industry – and another bureaucracy in the Consumer Financial Protection Agency.
As Co-Chair of the Congressional Wine Caucus and their congressman, I made it clear to a gathering of vintners and grape growers in Murphys that I would fight for them and against a new version of an old and bad idea: the Community Alcohol Regulatory Effectiveness Act (H.R. 1161). Last year’s version of this, the Comprehensive Alcohol Regulatory Effectiveness Act (CARE ACT) was more upfront with its name: REGULATORY, but no less lethal than this year’s in killing jobs and curtailing commerce. H.R. 1161 essentially would rescind or hamper the ability of the 100 wineries in our district and the 2,700 throughout California to ship their products directly to other states, as is permitted now in 38 states.  California wines are preferred throughout the country and the world. To restrict their interstate availability would severely damage the industry, the California economy and cost countless jobs.  
Your encouragement and my staff’s good work went to good effect as I was able to win approval of my H.R. 4 to repeal an onerous IRS paperwork mandate that would have harmed businesses all over the country. It was wonderful this week to be able to share this news and thank supporters at a Round Table discussion at the Citrus Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce, and later, with a group from Cal Chamber.
Well, the bill is in the Senate now and we’re optimistic this repeal of a bad idea will become reality. But there is much more to do, and I know you will be watching. 
Sincerely,
Daniel E. Lungren
Member of Congress

Chief Assumes Captain Position at CFPD

According to the press release issued by the CFPD Board of Directors this morning, Chief Cantrell will be assuming the position of Captain effective April 1, 2011 and the District will begin the process of selecting and hiring a new part time Chief.

Keith Cantrell has been with the Copperopolis Fire Protection District since November 1991. He has served in the capacity of fire fighter, Engineer, Fire Marshal, and finally as Chief. He replaced Toney Powers in July 2008 as acting Chief, and was appointed to Chief in December 2008.
As with many agencies within the County, CFPD has seen revenue reductions and Chief Cantrell has had to create multiple budgets to present to the Board anticipating various financial scenarios. Cantrell has also “proactively” put in place a new Policy Manual that covers issues that were not addressed in earlier policy manuals, requested the Board to adopt the California Uniform Fire Code, and implemented a comprehensive training schedule for all personnel. He encouraged grant writing, resulting in grants received and has significantly increased the pool of paramedics.
In the past two years, CFPD has seen not only financial trouble but personnel issues also. Two firefighters have been dismissed during Cantrell’s time in office, two other fire fighters were found lacking correct licensing and/or certification and were placed on modified duty until they became compliant, one Captain resigned, and rumors of a sexual harassment lawsuit lingered. There still remains a TORT claim from a dismissed firefighter, yet Cantrell stated in an earlier interview that the “District vigorously disputes the allegations.”

The press release states a potential savings to the District of $75,000.
According to CFPD Board Director Barbara Cheney “this is the most intelligent way to go…(I am) certain it is going to be successful.” When asked for a comment Director John Maness stated, “Voluntarily stepping down from his position as fire chief is just one more example of Keith’s dedication to the District and our community.  We owe him a debt of gratitude." Keith Cantrell was unavailable for comment at the time of this article.

By, Charity Maness