Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Angels Camp PD press release re:The Calaveras County Avoid DUI Coalition is deploying additional officers Halloween night

Trick-or-Treat? Drink-or-Drive - Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving

The Calaveras County Avoid DUI Coalition is deploying additional officers Halloween night


Angels Camp, Ca— Halloween is quickly approaching, which for many people means celebrating with alcohol. As you carve your pumpkin or pick out a costume this year, keep in mind that one of the best choices you can make is to drive sober or designate a sober driver to get you home safely. The Avoid the 2 DUI Task Force is reminding all drivers that Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving because every Halloween there are still some people who think they can drive after drinking.    

“We want people to remember: like ‘Trick-or-Treat;’ ‘Drink-or-Drive.’ One or the other, but never both,” said Chief Todd Fordahl, Angels Camp PD.  Before you take your first sip of alcohol on October 31, figure out who your designated sober driver will be.  If you wait until you’re ‘buzzed’ to make a decision, you may decide to drive. Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving, which means that driving “buzzed” brings very serious consequences. In 2012 alone, there were 10,322 people killed in drunk–driving crashes. Those were preventable deaths that happened when drunk drivers failed to plan ahead.

Body Located in Lake Tulloch Tuolumne side of O'Byrnes Ferry Bridge updated 10-29-14

Update:\10-29-14
0/28/14
Body Recovery at Lake Tulloch

Deceased: Jaspar, William, Ray

58 years old

Resident of Riverbank, CA


At approximately 4 pm today a call came out of a possible drowning victim off of O'Byrnes Ferry bridge.

According to Tuolumne County Sheriff PIO Scott Johnson the body was thought to have been spotted in the water from a passing vehicle.

Both Calaveras and Tuolumne Sheriff Dept worked on the recovery of the body located submerged just feet from the shoreline on the Tuolumne side of the bridge. The dive team appeared to be from Tuolumne.

A tackle box, fishing implements and a fish were located on the shoreline near where the body was submerged, yet it is not known if these items belong to the victim or not.

The recovery was completed at approximately 6:20 pm.

The scene was being treated as a crime scene.









For more pictures CLICK HERE

Halloween Carnival Copper School 10-30-14

October 30 Halloween Carnival 5-7 pm in the gym- all proceeds benefit 6th grade science camp!

Letter to the Editor re: Judge Hugh Swift supports our local veterans



While I read over the qualifications of the candidates for Superior Court Judge Dept Two, I noticed one important piece of information missing from Judge Hugh Swifts exemplary list; that of Veteran supporter.

Hopefully many of you have heard of the formation of a Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) in Calaveras County. What you may not know is that Judge Swift has been a proponent of this court since its infancy; long before his appointment.

I had the honor of attending the early VTC meetings where I witnessed firsthand the sincere interest Judge Swift had for helping veterans in crisis. 

Judge Swift has taken it upon himself to attend, with other core team members, a VTC in San Mateo County where he was present in chambers with Judge Grandsaert. 

He has communicated with multiple judges in other counties with regards to how they run their VTC’s. 

He has thoroughly researched the penal codes that apply to those who stand before him with prior military service so that they may receive the representation they deserve.

He is actively seeking avenues for treatment for veterans locally.

Judge Hugh Swift supports our veterans.

Veterans, I ask you to support Judge Hugh Swift.

Sincerely,


Al Gilbert
Vietnam Veteran 


Dana Pfeil for Superior Court Judge Dept 1



Updated 10-30-14
In the interest of transparency:
The Dana Pheil ad which appeared originally on 10-28-14, submitted by Paul Stein, was removed and replaced with a previously posted ad at the request of Judy Georgio on 10-30-14 at 1:44 pm.
The replacement comes after the Copper Gazette was alerted to possible ethical violations of the judicial canon with the ad.

Halloween Safety for your dogs part 3 from Bark n Bubbles



Halloween Safety for Dogs

·         Halloween Costumes for Dogs
Some dogs really enjoy getting dressed in costumes - they might ham it up and revel in the attention. Other dogs can become scared or uncomfortable in clothing of any type. If you want to dress your dog up, start simple and see how she handles it. If she does not like it, then don't push the issue. Try a Halloween bandanna or collar instead. If your dog does seem to enjoy getting dressed up, be certain you choose a costume that fits comfortably. If it is too tight, it could cut off circulation or cause sores to develop. Loose-fitting outfits can trip your dog or get caught on objects around the house. Because of these potential dangers, never leave your dog unattended in the costume. She could become injured or may ingest parts of the costume and choke, become sick, or develop gastrointestinal blockage.
·         Outdoor Dangers
I personally feel that unsupervised dogs are best kept indoors year-round, though some dogs will do fine living outdoors alone. However, the rules are different during the Halloween season! It is extremely crucial that you keep your dog indoors unless directly supervised. Sadly, there are cruel people who have twisted ideas of fun this time of year - and your dog can be the victim. Though it is more widely know that black cats are targeted during Halloween, any household pet can be at risk and MUST be kept indoors! 


Prime Rib at the Old Corner


Monday, October 27, 2014

Sheriff Dept press release re: Copperopolis Stabbing

Copperopolis Stabbing
On 10/25/14 at about 2035 hours, the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Department responded to a residence on the 1000 block of Feather Court, in Copperopolis, for a possible stabbing. Deputies arrived on scene and observed a 51 year old male who sustained injuries from a sharp instrument. The victim stated that his daughter, Erica Robinson, stabbed him with a pair of scissors. The victim was able to get away and telephone 9-1-1 for help. When deputies arrived, they located Erica Robinson standing in the driveway, who admitted stabbing her father. Deputies placed the suspect under arrest and contacted the victim located in his bedroom. His multiple wounds were not considered life threatening per medical staff on scene, and he refused medical transport. The Sheriff’s Department does not have an update on the victim’s medical status. The investigation into the stabbing is ongoing. Erica Robinson was booked into the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office Jail for attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and elder abuse. Erica Robinson is being held at the Calaveras County Jail, bail is set at $522,500.
For full details, view this message on the web.

Sheriff Dept Press release re:No on Proposition 47

To All Californians:
With the General Election less than two weeks away we, the
undersigned, urge you to vote NO on Proposition 47. As sheriffs, we
can tell you that this measure threatens the safety of our communities
and puts our families at risk.
Despite being referred to as the “Safe Neighborhoods and Schools
Act,” this measure will actually make our neighborhoods and schools
less safe. Reducing the penalties for many serious crimes like gun
theft, possession of date rape drugs, and identity fraud will lead to
more crime and more criminals in our neighborhoods.
Every sheriff in this state took an oath to protect the people and the
public safety. If Proposition 47 passes, our ability to protect our
communities will be impaired. Dumping thousands of prisoners onto
our streets can only make our problems worse.
Proposition 47 is a collection of bad ideas. Supporters will tell you
that this measure only affects petty criminals. The reality is, low level
criminals rarely go to prison; the people let out will have
dangerous criminal histories.
Sheriffs of the State of California respectfully ask that you stand with
law enforcement, crime victims, the business community, and your
local governments in opposition to Proposition 47. Please vote NO.
Organization Founded by the Sheriffs in 1894
California State Sheriffs’ Association
Proposition47SheriffsOppositio
n102214 For full details, view this message on the web.

 Officers
President
Adam E. Christianson
Sheriff, Stanislaus County
1st Vice President
Martin Ryan
Sheriff, Amador County
2nd Vice President
Donny Youngblood
Sheriff, Kern County
Secretary
Bill Brown
Sheriff, Santa Barbara County
Treasurer
Steve Moore
Sheriff, San Joaquin County
Sergeant-at-Arms
David Livingston
Sheriff, Contra Costa County
Immediate Past President
Gregory J. Ahern
Sheriff, Alameda County
Directors
Tom Bosenko
Sheriff, Shasta County
Geoff Dean
Sheriff, Ventura County
Mike Downey
Sheriff, Humboldt County
Steve Durfor
Sheriff, Yuba County
Tom Ferrara
Sheriff, Solano County
Steve Freitas
Sheriff, Sonoma County
Dean Growdon
Sheriff, Lassen County
Sandra Hutchens
Sheriff, Orange County
Margaret Mims
Sheriff, Fresno County
Ian Parkinson
Sheriff, San Luis Obispo County
Ed Prieto
Sheriff, Yolo County
David Robinson
Sheriff, Kings County
Presidents’ Counsel
Ed Bonner
Sheriff, Placer County
Robert Doyle
Sheriff, Marin County
Keith Royal
Sheriff, Nevada County
Laurie Smith
Sheriff, Santa Clara County
M. Carmen Green
Chief Operations Officer
Nick Warner
Policy Director
Martin J. Mayer
General Counsel

Commisioner Grant Barrett for Superior Court Judge Dept One


Trick or Treat Street in Town Square - update: RAIN OR SHINE


Candidate interviews: Congressional, judicial, local.

As the last week of campaigning commences the Gazette thought its readers may like an opportunity to revisit some of the candidate interviews conducted throughout the past few months.

Become informed...make an educated decision on November 4th.

Click on the name of the candidate to read their interview with the Copper Gazette.

4th Congressional District:

Tom McClintock

Art Moore

Calaveras County Superior Court Dept One:

Commisioner Grant Barrett

Dana Pfeil

Calaveras County Superior Court Dept Two:

Judge Hugh Swift

Tim Healy

CCWD District 4:

Russ Thomas

Dennis Mills

Judge Hugh Swift for Superior Court Judge Dept Two



Judge Hugh Swift’s 29 year legal career includes a diverse background uniquely qualifying him for the position he currently holds – Calaveras County Superior Court Judge.  As recently noted by retired Judge Douglas Mewhinney, “Judge Swift’s breadth of experience is indispensable in a two-judge court.”
For the first 13 years of his career, Judge Swift practiced civil litigation in Southern California.  In 1999 he moved to Calaveras County and began his career with the California courts working as a research attorney for the Amador Superior Court, soon thereafter promoting to the position of Court Executive Officer.  In 2006 Judge Swift was appointed to serve as a Superior Court Commissioner. As a commissioner, Judge Swift presided over Child Support and Small Claims cases on a weekly basis. The decisions he made in those cases had the same legal force and effect as the decisions he currently makes as a judge. In December 2013, Judge Swift was appointed to the Calaveras Superior Court after a lengthy and thorough vetting process by the California State Bar’s Commission on Judicial Nominees Evaluation (JNE).  A process only judges who are appointed by the Governor are required to go through; which is designed to determine an applicant’s qualifications, character and judicial demeanor
Currently, Judge Swift hears criminal, civil, traffic, family law, probate, domestic violence and civil harassment cases.   Since taking the bench, Judge Swift has presided over felony and misdemeanor jury trials, in addition to civil, family law and probate court trials.
Judge Swift hears all Drug Court cases and is working with the Court’s justice partners and veteran’s advocates to establish a Veterans Treatment Court.  More than 20 Superior Court Judges, including Judge John Martin and retired Judge Mewhinney of the Calaveras Superior Court endorse Judge Swift.  In addition, he enjoys the support of educators, health care professionals, small business owners and members of the community.
Judge Hugh Swift has lived in Calaveras County for 15 years, where he is raising his children and is active in his community. Judge Swift was a partner in Newsome Harlow Wine and a member of the board of directors of Mind Matters Clinic in Murphys.  He enjoys spending time hiking, hunting, riding horses and watching his daughters dance and play soccer.
Judge Swift has not sought the endorsement of any political party for this non partisan position.

Weather cooling to below 40 degrees by Friday night

  • 10-27-14
  • Today Mostly sunny in the morning then becoming partly cloudy. Highs 62 to 70. Prevailing east winds up to 10 mph in the morning becoming light.
  • Tonight Mostly clear. Lows 45 to 51. Prevailing northwest winds up to 10 mph in the evening becoming light.
  • Tuesday Mostly sunny. Highs 66 to 74. Prevailing northeast winds up to 10 mph in the morning becoming light.
  • Tuesday Night Mostly clear. Lows 48 to 54. Light winds becoming northeast up to 10 mph after midnight.
  • Wednesday Mostly sunny in the morning then becoming partly cloudy. Highs 70 to 78. Light winds.
  • Wednesday Night Mostly clear. Lows 49 to 57.
  • Thursday Mostly sunny. Highs 69 to 79.
  • Thursday Night Mostly clear. Lows 47 to 57.
  • Friday Rain likely. Highs 52 to 67.
  • Friday Night Rain likely. Colder. Lows 39 to 51. 

CALAVERAS SHERIFF VOLUNTEERS ASSISTED IN TRUNK OR TREAT AT JENNY LIND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL





            Calaveras Sheriff Volunteer Sgt. Aurora Weatherby and four other Sheriff Volunteers (David Aguilar, Lyle Brandt, Louis Chiu and Ron Parker) assisted in the Trunk or Treat at Jenny Lind Elementary School Saturday.  These Sheriff Volunteers provided patrol duty and traffic control for a safe and fun filled activity for many Trunk or Treaters and their families. The weather was perfect and a large crowd enjoyed this once a year public event.   

            The Calaveras County Sheriff Volunteer Unit continues to need more volunteers to assist various communities in holding public events in Calaveras County. Serious-minded Calaveras County citizens, retired or semi-retired, wishing to help their community and meeting the qualifications and requirements are encouraged to apply by calling the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office at (209) 754-5600, or visit sheriff@calaveras.ca.us.  Seniors are welcome and no law enforcement experience is necessary.
  

Copper School hosts parent education night

Teachers and administration of Copperopolis elementary school held an informational evening on Wednesday October 23, 2014 to help parents understand the new technology and curriculum utilized in today's classrooms.

The evening began with pizza and drinks. As the parents settled in, Miss DeSimone brought up the student.mtuesd.net site that all children use at school daily. She walked the parents through accessing the site and utilizing the programs within it.

"There will not longer be the excuse, 'I forgot my homework' or 'I forgot my text book' as all the information is also on the site, accesible and can be printed." Said DeSimone. Parents asked if printers were not available, if hand written work was acceptable. The answer was, yes, as the educators just want the student to be able to complete the work.



Board of Supervisor 10-28-14 meeting agenda

To view the 10-28-14 Board of Supervisors meeting agenda CLICK HERE


Tim Healy for Superior Court Judge


Old Corner Halloween Party 10-31-14


Sports Pub Halloween; fun, great music and friends










To view all the pics CLICK HERE