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Sunday, June 30, 2013

Governor Brown Directs California Department of Public Health to Notify Counties that Same-Sex Marriages Must Commence

SACRAMENTO – At the direction of Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr., the California Department of Public Health has notified clerks and registrar/recorders in all 58 California counties that same-sex marriage is now legal in California and that marriage licenses must be issued to same-sex couples immediately.

Today’s action follows the Governor’s directive to the California Department of Public Health after Wednesday’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

The letter sent today to county officials from the California Department of Public Health is here and copied below:

Excessive Heat warning in effect until Wednesday 7-3-13

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SACRAMENTO CA
250 PM PDT SUN JUN 30 2013

...DANGEROUS HEAT THROUGH THE MIDDLE OF THE WEEK...

.STRONG HIGH PRESSURE WILL REMAIN OVER NORTHERN CALIFORNIA THE
NEXT SEVERAL DAYS BRINGING VERY HOT DAYTIME TEMPERATURES. THIS
HEAT EVENT IS EXPECTED TO LAST THROUGH AT LEAST THE MIDDLE OF THE
WEEK...POSSIBLY LONGER. IN ADDITION TO THE HOT DAYS...OVERNIGHT
LOWS WILL BE IN THE 70S TO LOWER 80S...OFFERING MINIMAL RELIEF.

CAZ015>019-064-066-067-011200-
/O.CON.KSTO.EH.W.0001.000000T0000Z-130704T0100Z/
NORTHERN SACRAMENTO VALLEY-CENTRAL SACRAMENTO VALLEY-
SOUTHERN SACRAMENTO VALLEY-CARQUINEZ STRAIT AND DELTA-
NORTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY-CLEAR LAKE/SOUTHERN LAKE COUNTY-
NORTHEAST FOOTHILLS/SACRAMENTO VALLEY-MOTHERLODE-
INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...REDDING...CHICO...SACRAMENTO...
STOCKTON...MODESTO...LAKEPORT...PARADISE...GRASS VALLEY
250 PM PDT SUN JUN 30 2013

...EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM PDT
WEDNESDAY...

* DAYTIME HIGH TEMPERATURES: DAYTIME TEMPERATURE VALUES IN THE
  VALLEY AND FOOTHILLS WILL CLIMB TO THE 108 TO 117 RANGE OVER
  THE NEXT SEVERAL DAYS. OVERNIGHT MINIMUM TEMPERATURES WILL
  ONLY DROP MOSTLY INTO THE 70S TO LOWER 80S.

* TIMING: HOT TEMPERATURES WILL CONTINUE THROUGH WEDNESDAY WITH
  A SLIGHT COOLING EXPECTED ON THURSDAY.

* LOCATIONS INCLUDE: STOCKTON...MODESTO...SACRAMENTO...CHICO...
  REDDING...PARADISE...GRASS VALLEY...LAKEPORT.

* IMPACTS: INCREASED LEVELS OF HEAT STRESS TO PEOPLE AND
  LIVESTOCK...WITH LIMITED RELIEF FROM THE HEAT OVERNIGHT.

* FOR A DETAILED VIEW OF THE HAZARD AREA...VISIT
  HTTP://WWW.WEATHER.GOV/SACRAMENTO/HAZARDS

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

AN EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING MEANS THAT EXTRA PRECAUTIONS ARE NEEDED
IF YOU WORK OR SPEND TIME OUTSIDE. WHEN POSSIBLE... RESCHEDULE
STRENUOUS ACTIVITIES TO EARLY MORNING OR EVENING. KNOW THE SIGNS
AND SYMPTOMS OF HEAT EXHAUSTION AND HEAT STROKE. WEAR LIGHT WEIGHT
AND LOOSE FITTING CLOTHING WHEN POSSIBLE AND DRINK PLENTY OF
WATER. REMEMBER THAT CHILDREN AND THE ELDERLY ARE ESPECIALLY
SUSCEPTIBLE TO HEAT RELATED ILLNESSES.

Honor the Fallen 6-19-13 thru 6-23-13


Army Spc. Javier Sanchez Jr.


Died June 23, 2013 Serving During Operation Enduring Freedom


28, of Greenfield, Calif.; assigned to Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y.; died June 23 in Sar Rowzah, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device.

 

Army Sgt. Corey E. Garver

Died June 23, 2013 Serving During Operation Enduring Freedom


26, of Topsham, Maine; assigned to 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, Fort Campbell, Ky.; died June 23 in Zormat, Afghanistan, of wounds caused by an improvised explosive device.

Saturday, June 29, 2013

California’s Zero Tolerance of Illegal Fireworks CAL FIRE Offers Fireworks Safety This Fourth of July


Fireworks Sacramento - Summer in California is officially underway and the warm temperatures bring increased outdoor activities, with the Fourth of July being no exception. Many Californians and tourists will be celebrating our nation’s independence with fireworks, and CAL FIRE wants to stress the importance of fireworks safety and the State’s zero tolerance against illegal fireworks.
“Every year CAL FIRE and fire departments across California respond to hundreds of fireworks-related fires that result in millions of dollars in damage,” said State Fire Marshal Tonya Hoover, CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal. “If you are going to use fireworks, check first with your local fire department to make sure they are allowed in your area. If they are, use only fireworks that carry the State Fire Marshal’s ‘Safe and Sane’ seal.”

Memorial for Mike Council today, 6-29-13

Honoring His Life
His Memory
His Search for Truth
His Legacy
Michael “Mike” Council
Saturday, June 29, 2013
1 pm – 6 pm
Black Creek Park
920 Black Creek Dr.
Copperopolis, CA  95228
Do you have an interesting or funny story to tell about him? We’d love to hear it!
Like a Family Reunion......
It will be Pot Luck so bring your favorite dish to share with our friends and neighbors.
Please bring your own drinks. (And maybe a chair?)
Paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils will be furnished.
Need more information? Contact Patti @ 785-4039 or
Melanie @ 559-8047
HOPE YOU CAN JOIN US!

Friday, June 28, 2013

Copper kids learn about worms at the Copper Library

At the June 26, 2013 Copper Library Craft day, about 14 kids had a great time playing with worms and making diaries of their own to take home. The kids made a worm jar with Valerie for the Library. Kids can come back and check on the jar and see how the worms have mixed up the soil.
Next week (July 3rd) we will have a guest crafter. Wendy Desimone will be doing an Independence day activity.
 

Courtesy photos.
 

Fireworks Booth OPEN!!!

The Copperopolis Elementary Fireworks Booth in the IGA parking lot will be open for business Friday, June 28th from Noon to 7:00
It will then be open 10:00 to 7:00 thru July 4th.
This is a safe and sane fireworks booth.
If you would like to purchase fireworks but are not sure where you can set them off consider bringing them to the Fire Dept on the 4th of July at dusk and donate them to the CFPD annual fireworks show!




CalFire press release re: Have a Safe and Sane 4th of July

Have a Safe and Sane 4th of July

San AndreasEach year illegal and misused fireworks cause serious injuries and damaging wildfires. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is taking a zero tolerance stand against anyone possessing, transporting or using illegal fireworks. The penalties for possessing, transporting or using illegal fireworks ranges from a misdemeanor up to felony charges plus the cost incurred for fire suppression.

Illegal fireworks in California are those that explode, leave the ground, or move about uncontrollably. Illegal fireworks include sky rockets, bottle rockets, roman candles. Use of any fireworks which causes an injury or fire may result in a citation or arrest.

Calaveras Public Health Dept press release re: be prepared for the heat



Be Prepared for the Heat


Temperatures are expected to hit the century mark in the foothills this weekend and through early next week.  Dr. Dean Kelaita, County Health Officer, urges residents to prevent heat-related illnesses by being aware of the dangers and taking action.  Infants, children and the elderly are at higher risk of heat illness. Other persons at higher risk of heat illness have health conditions such as obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, poor circulation, or misuse of drugs or alcohol. These conditions make it harder for the body to stay cool in hot weather.

Board of Supervisors 7-9-13 meeting preliminary agenda



July 9, 2013

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA

On the website, items with supporting documentation may be linked for viewing.

CALAVERAS COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES PUBLIC AUTHORITY
CALAVERAS COUNTY AIR POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT

THIS MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CHAMBERS
891 Mountain Ranch Rd, San Andreas, California

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Clerk to the Board of Supervisors at 209/754-6370 at least 48 hours prior to the start of the meeting.  Notification in advance will allow reasonable arrangements to be made to ensure accessibility to this meeting.  Government Code §54954.2(a).

The agenda packet and supporting documentation are available for public review in the Clerk-Recorder’s Office, during regular business hours.

8:00 AM:   Call to Order
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA

1.    CLOSED SESSION: conference with legal counsel; anticipated litigation – significant exposure to litigation (three cases), pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2); County Counsel – Board action:

2.    CLOSED  SESSION:  conference with legal counsel; anticipated litigation - significant exposure to litigation - Claim No. 2013-08 -  Joel E. Garcia, Jr., pursuant to Government Code  Section 54956.9(d)(2); County Counsel – Board action:

9:00 AM:   Pledge of Allegiance
      Announcements

CCWD Notice of Public hearing on proposed water and waster water rate increase

Public hearing at CCWD Board room 9 am Wednesday July 10, 2013 423 East St Charles Street, San Andreas, CA.

The Calaveras County Water District is proposing a five-year water and waste water rate change for all residential and commercial customers. The proposal will be considered by the District's Board of Directors at a public hearing on July 10, 2013 and if approved, the rate change will be effective September 1, 2013.

If you would like more information please contact CCWD at 754-3543.
To submit a letter of protest please visit http://www.ccwd.org/pdf/info/news/05222013_Prop218/Sample%20Protest%20Letter.pdf

Harley Davidson Flip Flops now at the Beautique



The Beautique is located in Copperopolis Town Square, open
Mon - Thu: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Fri: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sun: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
209-785-9600

Hazardous Weather outlook continues from the National Weather Service

6-28-13 
THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR INTERIOR NORTHERN CALIFORNIA.

.DAY ONE...TODAY...THROUGH DAY SEVEN...THURSDAY

A SIGNIFICANT HEAT WAVE IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN TODAY AND CONTINUE
THROUGH AT LEAST NEXT WEDNESDAY. WIDESPREAD TRIPLE DIGIT HEAT IS
EXPECTED ACROSS THE VALLEY AND PARTS OF THE MOUNTAINS. SUNDAY
THROUGH WEDNESDAY LOOK TO BE THE HOTTEST DAYS IN THIS STRETCH.

Gov signs 2013-14 Budget - press release

SACRAMENTO – Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today signed a balanced, on-time budget that directs additional resources to California’s neediest students and continues the implementation of federal health care reform, while continuing to pay down debt and build a significant reserve to prepare for future uncertainties.

The budget is projected to provide long-term fiscal balance with operating surpluses.

“California’s finances are in very solid shape for the first time in a decade,” said Governor Brown, “We’re making significant investments in the things Californians care most about – the education of our children and adequate health care.”

Gov signs more bills

SACRAMENTO – Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today announced that he has signed the following bills.

• AB 74 by the Committee on Budget – Human services.
• AB 75 by the Committee on Budget – Alcohol and drug programs.
• AB 82 by the Committee on Budget – Health.
• AB 85 by the Committee on Budget – Health and human services.
• AB 89 by the Committee on Budget – Developmental services.
• AB 92 by the Committee on Budget – State government.
• AB 98 by the Committee on Budget – Property insurance: Seismic Safety Account.
• AB 110 by Assemblymember Robert Blumenfield (D-Woodland Hills) – Budget Act of 2013.
• ABX1 1 by Assemblymember John Pérez (D-Los Angeles) – Medi-Cal: eligibility.
• SB 71 by the Committee on Budget – State government.
• SB 73 by the Committee on Budget – Energy: Proposition 39 implementation.
• SB 74 by the Committee on Budget – Corrections.
• SB 75 by the Committee on Budget – Courts.
• SB 76 by the Committee on Budget – Public safety.
• SB 78 by the Committee on Budget – Public health: Medi-Cal managed care plan taxes.
• SB 82 by the Committee on Budget – Investment in Mental Health Wellness Act of 2013.
• SB 85 by the Committee on Budget – Transportation.
• SB 89 by the Committee on Budget – Budget Act of 2012: augmentation.
• SB 94 by the Committee on Budget – Medi-Cal: managed care: long-term services and supports: in-home supportive services.
• SBX1 1 by Senator Ed Hernandez (D-West Covina) and Senator Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) – Medi-Cal: eligibility.

The Governor announced that he has also vetoed the following bill:

• AB 76 by the Committee on Budget – State government. A veto message can be found here.

To Dine or Not to Dine....

This weeks restaurant is Pete's Family Restaurant in downtown Jamestown.

While spending a day running the innumerable 'catch all' errands up the hill, one tends to get hungry right between Sonora and Copper...luckily there is a variety of restaurants to choose from in Jamestown...a perfect midway point for a snack.

On just such an errand run I discovered Pete's. What was once Azzo's famous Italian restaurant is now an American and Greek cuisine eatery. It is a small restaurant tucked away along the main drag of Jamestown with little curb appeal but a menu worth a look.

Once inside with a nice glass of ice water my companion and I perused the expansive menu offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. New York Steak and eggs, omelets, pancakes and more on the breakfast side...but it was 2 in the afternoon...I would behave and eat a lunch even though my mouth was watering with the mere thoughts of waffles with fresh strawberries. On to the lunch menu.

Indeed there was a vast array of American eats like hamburgers and salads but what intrigued me were the items I could not pronounce let alone try to spell without the menu in front of me. Forget phonetics with some of these Greek words, but when in Greece....

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Runner Says Gas Tax Hike Based on ‘Guesswork’ - press release



*** A video of Runner questioning and voting ‘no’ on the gas tax hike is available at http://youtu.be/RWc1KzjMI4A. ***

SACRAMENTO – George Runner today issued the following statement regarding a 3.5 cent increase in California’s excise tax on gasoline scheduled to take effect July 1, 2013:

“On July 1 Californians will be forced to begin paying the highest gas taxes in the nation. They have a right to be angry and demand explanation from their elected officials.

Excessive Heat Watch - National Weather Service

6-27-13 
...DANGEROUS HEAT POSSIBLE SUNDAY THROUGH AT LEAST THE MIDDLE OF
NEXT WEEK...

.STRONG HIGH PRESSURE OVER THE DESERT SOUTHWEST WILL BUILD INTO
NORTHERN CALIFORNIA THE NEXT SEVERAL DAYS. THIS EVENT IS EXPECTED
TO LAST THROUGH AT LEAST THE MIDDLE OF NEXT WEEK...POSSIBLY
LONGER. WITH HIGHER HUMIDITY...THE AIR WILL FEEL MORE "MUGGY THAN
TYPICAL NORTHERN CALIFORNIA HEAT WAVES. IN ADDITION...OVERNIGHT
LOWS WILL BE IN THE UPPER 60S TO LOWER 80S...OFFERING MINIMAL
RELIEF.
 
 ...EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH IN EFFECT FROM SUNDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON...

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN SACRAMENTO HAS ISSUED AN
EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH...WHICH IS IN EFFECT FROM SUNDAY AFTERNOON
THROUGH WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON.

* HEAT INDEX VALUES: TEMPERATURES AND HEAT INDEX VALUES MAY CLIMB
  TO BETWEEN 105 AND 112 DEGREES DURING THE AFTERNOON HOURS.

* TIMING: SUNDAY THROUGH WEDNESDAY.

* LOCATIONS INCLUDE: STOCKTON...MODESTO...SACRAMENTO...CHICO...
  REDDING...PARADISE...GRASS VALLEY...LAKEPORT.

* IMPACTS: INCREASED LEVELS OF HEAT STRESS TO PEOPLE AND
  LIVESTOCK...WITH LIMITED RELIEF FROM THE HEAT OVERNIGHT.

Copper Fireworks Booth to open 6-28-13

The Copperopolis Elementary Fireworks Booth in the IGA parking lot will be open for business Friday, June 28th from Noon to 7:00
It will then be open 10:00 to 7:00 thru July 4th.
This is a safe and sane fireworks booth.
If you would like to purchase fireworks but are not sure where you can set them off consider bringing them to the Fire Dept on the 4th of July at dusk and donate them to the CFPD annual fireworks show!

Letter to the Editor - re:CCWD

Time to come clean
After attending all three town hall presentations by the CCWD staff,
there is a need to put some background to this effort to
substantially raise rates. First, we need to read between the lines
about what was not talked about. How we got here should have been
clearly spelled out by our district staff and it was not. The staff
said it was all about future connections that didn’t materialize and
a lower tax income. The districts yearly audited financial reports
say differently.
When I ran for this board in 1988, CCWD had $28 million invested in
current/restricted assets plus income from those investments. The
numbers presented in this letter are from the audited financial
statements of the district.
By 2005 those investments totaled $45 million with the districts
payroll of $4 million and director’s average pay of $21k per year.
Now it gets ugly, as you recall the markets fell apart. Back in 1988
CCWD was heavily invested in GMAC (General Motors) which as everyone
knows went bankrupt.

Life line screening at the Copperopolis Community Center (the armory)

 Life Line Screening will be here at Copperopolis Community Center (Historic Armory) on O’Byrnes / Main Street Wednesday, July 10, 2013 http://www.lifelinescreeningblog.com/introduction/ Pre Registration Only: 1-800-324-1851 Special $10 discount by signing up online at www.lifelinescreening.com/community-partners

New inmate mental health facility in Stockton

STOCKTON — The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation today dedicated its new California Health Care Facility, an $839 million medical facility designed to care for the state’s sickest inmates.

“This new California Health Care Facility is just the latest example of the state’s dedication to providing inmates in California with mental health and medical treatment that rivals any prison health care in the country,” said Secretary of Corrections and Rehabilitation Jeff Beard.  The newly constructed medical and mental health facility, which sits on 200 acres in south Stockton on the site of the former Karl Holton Youth Correctional Facility, was completed on time and on budget. It will begin accepting inmate-patients in mid-July and is expected to provide intermediate level care for its full complement of 1,722 patients by the end of 2013.  Approximately 2,500 doctors, nurses, technicians, mental health and other custody and support staff will be employed at the facility.

Board of Supervisors 6-25-13 meeting video

To view the Board of Supervisors 6-25-13 meeting CLICK HERE

Video of Calaveras Planning Commission meetings and Calaveras Board of Supervisor’s meetings graciously supplied by Calaveras Public Access TV accessed by the Community Action Project.

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

'Oklahoma' coming to the Fallon House

Oklahoma! – Rodgers & Hammerstein’s first masterpiece – sweeps onto the Fallon House stage this summer. Sierra Repertory Theatre is proud to present an outstanding cast in this finely crafted classic, a celebration of the American spirit of courage, independence and feisty good fun. It plays at the Fallon House theatre in Columbia State Historic Park from June 28 through August 18.
Set in the Western Territory just before Oklahoma became a state, the show was an instant smash when it debuted 70 years ago and set a new standard for the American musical.
“This show captures a spirit and time that is so appealing,” said SRT Producing Director Dennis Jones, who is directing the show. “It was a new beginning for the country, a joy about life – the future looked very bright. That’s what they were celebrating when they wrote this and that’s why it’s still so popular.”
 Photo by Rich Miller

Kessler Ranch Control burn

If you see smoke on the horizon over 108 it is a control burn by CalFire with approval for more than 100 acres.
The control burn is for a S234 class titled 'burn boss.' The class teaches fire personnel how to do a safe and diligent burn on a wildland incident.
CFPD has representatives in the course.

Severe Weather Alert - National Weather Service

6-26-13
released 3:41 pm
...HEAT WAVE OVER INTERIOR NORTHERN CALIFORNIA THIS WEEKEND AND INTO
   NEXT WEEK...

* IMPACTS: CHILDREN...THE ELDERLY...AND PEOPLE WITH CHRONIC
  AILMENTS ARE THE MOST SUSCEPTIBLE TO HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS. PETS
  AND LIVESTOCK ARE VULNERABLE TO HEAT ILLNESS AND SHOULD BE CARED
  FOR PROPERLY.

* TEMPERATURES: IN THE VALLEY...HIGH TEMPERATURES OVER 100
  DEGREES FROM FRIDAY INTO WEDNESDAY. HOTTEST DAYS MONDAY AND
  TUESDAY WITH HIGHS FROM 105 TO 112. OVERNIGHT LOWS MOSTLY IN THE
  MID 60S TO MID 70S. IN THE MOUNTAINS...WIDESPREAD 80S AND 90S.
  OVERNIGHT LOWS IN THE 60S TO MID 70S.

* HUMIDITY: MOISTURE MOVING UP FROM THE SOUTH WILL MAKE IT FEEL
  SOMEWHAT MUGGY AND MORE UNCOMFORTABLE THAN NORMAL.

* THUNDERSTORM POTENTIAL: AFTERNOON AND EVENING THUNDERSTORMS
  POSSIBLE OVER THE SIERRA NEVADA AND SOUTHERN CASCADES MAINLY
  EARLY NEXT WEEK.

Carstens Fire 100% contained

Carstens Fire Incident Information:
Last Updated: June 26, 2013 11:15 am   FINAL
Date/Time Started: June 16, 2013 2:12 pm  
Administrative Unit: CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit / Sierra National Forest  
County: Mariposa County  
Location: Off Carstens Road, east of 140 in the Midpines area.  
Acres Burned - Containment: 1,708 acres  
Estimated Containment 1,708 acres - 100% contained  
Evacuations: All evacuation orders were lifted as of 4:00 pm on Thursday, June 20. Residents with I.D. will be allowed to return to their homes.  
Injuries: 1  
Cause: Human - abandoned campfire 
Cooperating Agencies: CAL FIRE, US Forest Service, California Highway Patrol, National Park Service, Mariposa County, Mariposa County Fire, Mariposa County Sheriff.  
Total Fire Personnel: 112  
Total Fire crews: 2  
Total Water Tenders: 4  
Conditions: Firefighters continue to mop up and patrol for hot spots. Fire suppression rehabilitation to repair damage from fire line construction will be implemented. Road damage is being repaired from heavy firefighting traffic. Please drive slowly and allow large fire equipment to pass.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service is available to assist private landowners with rehabilitating property affected by the fire. Fore more information, contact: 209-966-3431, or: www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov.  

Bring your safe and sane fireworks to Copper Fire for the 4th of July celebration

Its that time of year again...the 4th of July!
At dusk the community is invited to head on over to Copper Fire Station #1 on Main street with their children and chairs in tow to watch a safe and sane firework display!
You can purchase your fireworks from the Copper Elementary Fireworks booth located in the IGA parking lot up until the evening of the 4th.
If you have safe and sane fireworks you can bring them to Station #1 on Main street to help make the 4th spectacular for the whole town.

Remembering Gerald Linstedt



Gerald L. Linstedt (Jerry)
September 18, 1938 – May 18, 2013
Resident of Copperopolis



Jerry Linstedt, age 74, passed away peacefully at his home in Copperopolis, CA, two months after being diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

Jerry was born in Turlock, CA the youngest of three children.  He graduated from Gilroy High School in 1956 and from UCLA in 1960.  He entered the US Navy in 1960 and achieved the rank of Commander before being retired in 1981. He was a Navy Cryptologist and during his career made significant contributions to the U.S Intelligence Community.  He was a recognized authority on computer systems.  The Navy recognized his skills and early in his career ordered him to The American University where he earned an MS degree in Computer and Information Systems.  His assignments with the Naval Security Group took him on tours to Japan, Germany, Cyprus, Spain, and Ft George G Meade, Md.

Following his Naval career Jerry worked for GTE Government Systems in Mountain View.  He retired, after 18 successful years in industry, from Lockheed Martin as the Vice President of Mission Ground Systems, San Jose, CA.


Bark n Bubbles for your pets needs

BARK N BUBBLES
DOG WASH/GROOMER
WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY 10-4PM
COME IN TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR MANY PRODUCTS
FLEA AND TICK / HEARTWORM/  HEALTH ITEMS / SHAMPOOS/  BOWLS /TOYS/ TRAVEL ITEMS/ COLLARS / BLANKETS / GIFT CERTIFICATES- MISC ITEMS
                           GROOMER BY APPT.              
785-WASH (9274)

Youngs Payless IGA weekly ad for 6-26-13 thru 7-02-13

To view the Youngs Payless IGA weekly ad for week 6-26-13 thru  7-02-13 CLICK HERE


'Much Ado about Nothing' is really SOMETHING!

Once again Murphys Creek Theater delivers an outstanding performance with a cast beyond compare.

Much Ado About Nothing by Murphys Creek Theater is not only for seasoned Shakespeare aficionados, it is for anyone who loves a witty, fast paced, multi-plot twisting play performed by actors rivaling those who grace the stages of Broadway.

Love at first sight, love born of witty repartee, deceit, lies, betrayal, and comedy all are interwoven through the performance of Much Ado About Nothing.

Written in the late 1500's by William Shakespeare, Much Ado About Nothing is a comedy that transcends time, yet holds the beauty of the language of old. If by chance you miss the meaning of the colorful and excessive use of Elizabethan vocabulary, not to fear, the actors of MCT have the uncanny ability to communicate their words perfectly through their actions and body language creating a theater experience you will love.






CCWD Town Hall meeting leads to more questions

At the June 25, 2013 CCWD Town Hall meeting held in Copperopolis approximately 90 residents were in attendance to hear the justification for the proposed rate increases to the water and waste water customers.

As there were three board members present the meeting was held in the format adhering to the Brown Act. After President of the Board, Copperopolis District representative, Dennis Dooley took the floor for public comment, CCWD General Manager Mitch Dion (with CCWD for 6 months) explained the process of a rate based public agency and the rules governing rate increases.

Protest letter rules were touched on. According to Dion only an owner (which may be a bank in a foreclosed property) may submit a protest letter to CCWD regarding the proposed rate increases. However according to the California Constitution Article 13 Section 2 g :
(g) "Property ownership" shall be deemed to include tenancies of
real property where tenants are directly liable to pay the
assessment, fee, or charge in question.

Copper Fire Strike team home from Carstens Fire

The fire fighting strike team sent from Copper Fire to fight the Carstens fire returned safely home late Friday afternoon.
The three man team from CFPD included: firefighter Guy Andress, firefighter Doug Ungari, Engineer Jay Lang and Chief Kovacs.
Kovacs was also the strike team leader for the five engine Calaveras County strike team. The five engine strike team was composed of engines from Copper, Central Fire, Murphys Fire, Calaveras Consolidated and Central Fire.
Thank you firefighters and welcome home.

Updated 6-26-13 to include Firefighter Guy Andress, our apologies for not including his name originally. Thank you Guy for your hard work and welcome home.

Sonora PD press release re: introduction of Citizen RIMS

The Sonora Police Department, in cooperation with Sun Ridge Systems, is pleased to introduce Citizen RIMS. Today, the public is used to being able to look up just about anything on the Internet, which includes “government” information. The Sonora Police Department knows publishing such information is good public relations. There is also the benefit of saving personnel time, by reducing the number of requests for information they must handle.

Vacation Bible School registration

July 8th-12th,2013
Join us for a great week of Vacation Bible School! We are looking for kids who want to have fun with crafts, games, worship, and great Bible stories.
Vaction Bible School is for children entering Kindergarten in the Fall 2013 through the 6th grade.
Register on Sunday mornings at the information table or
you can register your child on-line at:




CCWD town hall meeting TONIGHT!! 6-25-13

The Calaveras County Water District [CCWD] will be holding several town hall meetings to discuss CCWD’s proposed five-year water and waste water rate change for residential and commercial customers.
The public is encouraged to attend these meetings and ask questions. 
A meeting will be held in Copperopolis on June 25, 2013 at 6:30 pm at Blackcreek meeting hall.

Rain short lived - in the high 90's by the weekend

  • 6-25-13
  • Today A 40 percent chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 78. South southwest wind 5 to 7 mph becoming light and variable in the afternoon. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.
  • Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. North northwest wind 7 to 9 mph. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.
  • Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. West northwest wind around 8 mph.
  • Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 59. West northwest wind 8 to 10 mph.
  • Thursday Sunny, with a high near 94. West northwest wind 6 to 9 mph.
  • Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 63.
  • Friday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97.
  • Friday Night Clear, with a low around 64.

Sonora PD Press release re: 3 members Golden State Cab arrested

23 June 2013, at approx. 10:00 pm, a member of Golden State Cab made threats to harm the owner of a competing cab company, while they were inside a restaurant. The owner of the other cab company has been assaulted by this individual in the past and feared for his safety when the threat was made.
The member of Golden State Cab who made the threats was identified as Ronald Paul, 46 of Sonora and is the ex-business partner with the other cab company owner. Paul was located a short time later and taken into custody without incident. Paul was transported to the Tuolumne County Jail and booked for felony criminal threats.

Carstens Fire 95% contained

Carstens Fire Incident Information:
Last Updated: June 24, 2013 6:30 pm  
Date/Time Started: June 16, 2013 2:12 pm  
Administrative Unit: CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit / Sierra National Forest  
County: Mariposa County  
Location: Off Carstens Road, east of 140 in the Midpines area.  
Acres Burned - Containment: 1,708 acres  
Estimated Containment 1,708 acres - 95% contained  
Evacuations: All evacuation orders were lifted as of 4:00 pm on Thursday, June 20. Residents with I.D. will be allowed to return to their homes.  
Injuries: 1  
Cause: Human - abandoned campfire 
Cooperating Agencies: CAL FIRE, US Forest Service, California Highway Patrol, National Park Service, Mariposa County, Mariposa County Fire, Mariposa County Sheriff.  
Total Fire Personnel: 146  
Total Fire Engines: 6  
Total Fire crews: 2  
Total Dozers: 1  
Total Water Tenders: 4  
Conditions: Firefighters continue to mop up and patrol for hot spots. Fire suppression rehabilitation to repair damage from fire line construction will be implemented. Road damage is being repaired from heavy firefighting traffic. Please drive slowly and allow large fire equipment to pass.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service is available to assist private landowners with rehabilitating property affected by the fire. Fore more information, contact: 209-966-3431, or: www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov.  

Memorial for Mike Council

Honoring His Life
His Memory
His Search for Truth
His Legacy
Michael “Mike” Council
Saturday, June 29, 2013
1 pm – 6 pm
Black Creek Park
920 Black Creek Dr.
Copperopolis, CA  95228
Do you have an interesting or funny story to tell about him? We’d love to hear it!
Like a Family Reunion......
It will be Pot Luck so bring your favorite dish to share with our friends and neighbors.
Please bring your own drinks. (And maybe a chair?)
Paper plates, cups, and plastic utensils will be furnished.
Need more information? Contact Patti @ 785-4039 or
Melanie @ 559-8047
HOPE YOU CAN JOIN US!

IGA Kids Fest - a cool time for Copper Kids

The annual Youngs Payless IGA Kids Fest was held on June 22, 2013 with plenty of kid action to be had. Face painting, bean bag toss, coloring, hotdogs, snow cones, bouncy room, dunk tank, and splash pond were but a few of the fun things on tap on Saturday for Copper kids.

Thank you IGA for a fun Kids Day for Copper Kids!







For more pictures CLICK HERE


Monday, June 24, 2013

New Melones Fishing report from Glory Hole Sports

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

4th of July Patriotic Picnic in Angels Camp


Angels Camp Celebrates 4th of July- Retired Navy Captain Tapped to Conduct Ceremony

Angels Camp will host the second Annual Patriotic Picnic on July 4th in Utica Park. The event will be honoring our veterans. Besides the old fashion games, hotdogs and military bands there will also be a formal ceremony at 3 p.m. The Angels Camp Commemorative Committee has asked Jim Dodge to host the festivities.

'Hotel Hell' hits Murhys

Over the weekend the famed reality show 'Hotel Hell' with host Gordon Ramsay hit Murphys Hotel and shook it up.

The episode should air this fall. But for us locals we can see the changes for ourselves much sooner than that.


Call the Murphys Hotel to find out about hours of operation.728-3444

Mumbo Gumbo to play at Twisted Oak



Twisted Folk Concert Series Presents: Mumbo Gumbo

Where: Twisted Oak Winery, 4280 Red Hill Rd at Hwy 4, Vallecito
When: Saturday, June 29, 2013 – 7:30pm. Gates open 6:30pm

Ticket Information:
Tickets $20 advance ($18 Twisted Few wine club members), or $25 at the gate, if available.
Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge.
For more info, or to purchase tickets:  209-736-9080, twistedoak.com/concerts

Contact:
For questions about featured musicians, contact:  Maria Camillo, maria@twistedoak.com
For questions about Twisted Oak Winery, contact: Jeff Stai, jds@twistedoak.com

Carstens Fire 90% contained

Carstens Fire Incident Information:
Last Updated: June 23, 2013 6:30 am  
Date/Time Started: June 16, 2013 2:12 pm  
Administrative Unit: CAL FIRE Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit / Sierra National Forest  
County: Mariposa County  
Location: Off Carstens Road, east of 140 in the Midpines area.  
Acres Burned - Containment: 1,708 acres  
Estimated Containment 1,708 acres - 90% contained  
Evacuations: All evacuation orders were lifted as of 4:00 pm on Thursday, June 20. Residents with I.D. will be allowed to return to their homes.  
Injuries: 1  
Cause: Human - abandoned campfire 
Cooperating Agencies: CAL FIRE, US Forest Service, California Highway Patrol, National Park Service, Mariposa County, Mariposa County Fire, Mariposa County Sheriff.  
Total Fire Personnel: 637  
Total Fire Engines: 26  
Total Fire crews: 20  
Total Helicopters: 2  
Total Dozers: 3  
Total Water Tenders: 7  
Conditions: Fire size fluctuation is a result of final ground based GPS mapping.
Extensive mop-operations and patrol of the fire lines will continue. Fire suppression rehabilitation to repair damage from fire line construction will be implemented. Road damage is being repaired from heavy firefighting traffic. Please drive slowly and allow large fire equipment to pass.
The fire is transferring from the South Central Sierra Incident Management Team, Type 2, to a Type 3 organization on the Sierra National Forest.

Road Closures:
  • Carstens Road and Buckingham Mountain Road remain closed to the public. Residents are allowed to enter with I.D.
  • All Forest Service roads leading to and around the fire area will remain closed.
  • Carter Rd. open to all traffic including Carter Ranch Music Festival.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service is available to assist private landowners with rehabilitating property affected by the fire. Fore more information, contact: 209-966-3431, or: www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov.  

Gov issues statement on inmate reduction order

SACRAMENTO – Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. issued the following statement on the inmate reduction order by the Three-Judge Panel:

“The state will seek an immediate stay of this unprecedented order to release almost 10,000 inmates by the end of this year.”

Board of Supervisors 6-25-13 preliminary agenda



June 25, 2013

REGULAR MEETING AGENDA

On the website, items with supporting documentation may be linked for viewing.

CALAVERAS COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES PUBLIC AUTHORITY
CALAVERAS COUNTY AIR POLLUTION CONTROL DISTRICT

THIS MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CHAMBERS
891 Mountain Ranch Rd, San Andreas, California

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Clerk to the Board of Supervisors at 209/754-6370 at least 48 hours prior to the start of the meeting.  Notification in advance will allow reasonable arrangements to be made to ensure accessibility to this meeting.  Government Code §54954.2(a).

The agenda packet and supporting documentation are available for public review in the Clerk-Recorder’s Office, during regular business hours.

8:00 AM:   Call to Order
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA

1.    CLOSED SESSION: pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 (d)(1): conference with legal counsel re: existing litigation; County of Calaveras v. The Resort at Lake Tulloch, LLC, Calaveras County Superior Court, Case No. 12CV38738 ; County Counsel - Board Action.

9:00 AM:   Pledge of Allegiance
      Announcements

       RECOGNITION AND PRESENTATIONS

2.   Adopt a RESOLUTION recognizing the achieved hours and commitment by the Calaveras County Search and Rescue Team; Sheriff – Board action:

Art & Jazz Fest photos

The Art & Jazz Fest held on June 22, 2013 at Town Square was packed with artists of every medium. From painters to jewelers, photographers to horticulturists. If you love art, there was something for you.

The event also hosted a 'food art' competition which drew a small but eclectic set of entrants.





For more photos CLICK HERE