Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Calaveras County Deputies Nominated for Attorney General Commendation Award

Senior Deputy Kevin Stevens and Deputy Josh Shemenski were both nominated for the Attorney General's Law Enforcement Officer's Commendation Award and publicly recognized in Sacramento by Attorney General Kamala Harris.
MEDIA RELEASE

Town Square Hosting 'Art & Jazz on the Square'

June Harmon Memorial Party

As per June's request, Micki and Larry will be hosting a memorial party pot luck at the Sports Pub on July 2, 2011 at 4:00 pm honoring June's life.
June Harmon Passed away Sunday June 19, 2011 at the age of 81.
Please bring your stories and thoughts of the many ways June touched your lives.
After requesting a memorial party June joked, "Lets have that party before I die so I can enjoy it and listen to what people have to say about me."
Funeral following cremation will be private.
For more information please contact Micki or Larry at 785-4646

(Submitted by Micki and Larry Phillips.)

Repairs to O'Byrnes Ferry Bridge Today

6-21-11 Repairs continue on the O'Byrnes Ferry Bridge today. One lane traffic.



Copper Welcomes the First Day of Summer with a Possible 97 Degree Day

Today: Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Calm wind becoming west between 4 and 7 mph.

Tonight: Clear, with a low around 67. Northwest wind around 8 mph.

Stay hydrated Copper!

Yosemite Celebrates the First Day of Summer with Free Entrance

Yosemite Celebrates the First Day of Summer with Free Entrance to the park. Today's free day will only be for the entrance, fees associated with lodging and camping within the park are not waived.

Copperopolis Olive Oil Company- Adding a bit of their own Jazz

Copperopolis Town Square will be hosting an Art & Jazz on the square this weekend from 10-4.
Bring your family and friends for this fun event. There will be wine, beer, beverages, live music and of course, ART!
Joining in on the festivities Copperopolis Olive Oil Company will be offering (with coupon) 10 % off  Olive Oils and Balsalmics and 15% off any glassware at their wonderful store in Town Square. Click here to print coupon.
Come browse their store, let the scents soothe your soul and ignite your imagination!

Pandamania Vacation Bible School - Zoo much fun!

Copper Canyon Baptist Church began their annual vacation bible school Monday June 20, 2011 at Copper School with 41 eager and enthusiastic children. The children, K-6th grade all participate in games, dances, songs, crafts, worship and bible study. Many youth that have participated in previous years yet have grown out of the age range of VBS are back to serve as youth leaders helping the many summer missionaries that are visiting and Pastor Sean coordinate and pull off an amazing vacation bible school.
There is still room...come on and enjoy the fun!
For more information visit http://www.coppercanyonchurch.org/Vacation_Bible_School/


"Manda Panda" awarding a child with a 'best helper of the day' prize



Summer Solstice Today

Summer solstice begins June 21, 1:16 P.M. EDT.

The word solstice comes from the Latin words for "sun" and "to stop," due to the fact that the Sun appears to stop in the sky. The Sun is directly overhead at its most northern point at "high-noon" on the summer solstice, creating more sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere on this day then any other.

On the solstice, we also hit the longest day of the year. From here on out, the days begin to get shorter.

Worldwide, interpretation of the event has varied from culture to culture, but most cultures have held a recognition of sign of the fertility, involving holidays, festivals, gatherings, rituals or other celebrations around that time.

It is a time for divination and healing rituals. Divining rods and wands are traditionally cut at this time.

Monday, June 20, 2011

Calaveras trailblazers: Duo dreams of day hiking paths filled with locals - from Stockton Record - Dana Nicols

Pat McGreevy is a retired U.S. Army colonel with short-cropped hair and so much expertise in tropical medicine that his nation still calls on him to do consulting work now and then.
Bob Wetzel is a retired U.S. Forest Service employee who once managed wilderness for the Calaveras Ranger District. His hair is in a long pony tail, and members of youth work crews once called him "the granola ranger."
Despite the differences in hairstyle, these two men have been walking side by side a lot lately. Their quest: to lead Calaveras County residents outdoors to enjoy the area's hiking trails, lakes and quiet back roads.
"The people in Calaveras want more trails close to home," McGreevy said.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture rates Calaveras as one of the five most beautiful counties in the nation based on amenities such as topography, lakes and rivers, and climate.
Hundreds of thousands of tourists heed the call of that beauty each year to visit soaring granite peaks or groves of giant redwoods in Calaveras County.
Many locals, however, don't. The local Sierra Club group, which includes both Calaveras and Tuolumne counties, has no hike leaders in Calaveras. That means most group hikes are in Tuolumne County.
McGreevy and Wetzel want to change all that. They've been taking the training to become hike leaders, creating a guide to local hikes, biking and boating opportunities, and scouting routes to connect trails that are now disjointed and often start far from where people live.

Board of Supervisors 6-21-11 meeting agenda and Board Packet

AGENDA

BOARD PACKET

Possible items of interest to Copperopolis:
3.
Resolution acting as the Governing Body of Community Facilities District No.2Creek) ordering judicial foreclosure of delinquent social taxes pursuant to the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982 and ordering that the Tax Collector be credited with those taxes; Treasurer-Tax Collector - Board action:


11.
Redistricting - PUBLIC HEARING to discuss the adjustment of boundaries of supervisorial
districts as required by Elections Code Section 21500.1; Technology Services .- Board
Action

Mark Twain Union Elementary School District Board Meeting 6-21-11

MARK TWAIN UNION ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT
June 21, 2011
Revised
BOARD STUDY SESSION
At the District Meeting Room 4:30 P.M.-5:30 P.M.
1. Self Evaluation of Governance Body
2. Review District Goals for 2010-2011 and Discuss Goals for 2011-2012.
REGULAR MEETING
Open Session 5:30 P.M.
Closed Session 5:35 P.M.
Open Session 6:30 P.M.
981 Tuolumne Ave
Angels Camp, CA 95222

REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF EDUCATION

Umpqua Bank Shows its Customer Appreciation

On Friday June 17, 2011 Umpqua Bank, Copperopolis Branch,  showed its customer appreciation by handing out free fresh baked cookies, rootbeer floats and missle pop popsicles.
With our infamous hot Copperopolis summer kicking into high gear the snacks were a 'cool' treat.

Pictured Robin Groves (McDillards Feed) and Iris Larson Umpqua Bank Store Manager

Long time Copper Resident June Harmon Passes

After suffering a broken leg last week and two subsequent surgeries, June Harmon passed away Sunday evening at Sonora General Hospital with her daughter by her side.
Becoming 'adoptive' mom to many in town, June is known for her sage advice and her willingness to speak her mind.
In "her younger years" June owned and operated a wine and beer bar in Stockton, California, lending her own charm to the bar.
June turned 81 years old on June 15th.
Services have yet to be announced.

(Submitted by longtime friends Micki & Larry Phillips)

Calaveras Wine Alliance 15th Annual Passport Weekend - Frog's Tooth Vineyard on the Itinerary

Copperopolis' own Frog's Tooth Vineyards has shed its tadpole status and is hopping in the big leagues now.
After winning 8 medals at this years Calaveras County Fair, Frog's Tooth Vineyards has earned its place among the best wineries in Calaveras County.
This weekend Frog's Tooth Vineyards will be participating in a two day wine event hosted by the Calaveras Wine Alliance dubbed the 'Passport Weekend.' This two day event highlights not only the finest wines our county has to offer, but music and culinary delights at each and every passport stop along the route.
For more information on tickets and times call 209-728-9467.


The following is information submitted from Calaveras Wine Alliance.

Governor Brown Announces Appointments

Sarita Kohli, 52, of Saratoga, has been appointed to the Board of Behavioral Sciences. Kohli has served as the director of mental health programs at Asian Americans for Community Involvement since 2005. From 2001 to 2003, Kohli was a psychotherapist at Family and Child Services. Kohli is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Kohli is a Democrat.

Spellman to hold 'First Annual' grass roots Congressional Fundraiser

At the June 16, 2011 Copperopolis forum, Supervisor Darren Spellman announced he will be hosting his “first annual” grass roots Congressional fundraiser on June 25, 2011.
Adding a Calaveras County twist, Spellman will be holding his fundraiser bbq on the island in the middle of Hogan Lake during a fireworks display. Those attending will be ferried across the lake to the island, where they will enjoy the company of Darren, his family, and his supporters, all while dining on a traditional hometown bbq meal of hotdogs and hamburgers. The finale…the fireworks display over the lake. Those wishing to leave will be ferried back to shore after the fireworks display.
Spellman said that attending this event is a simple process. To reserve your first annual grass roots Congressional fundraiser spot just visit www.spellmanforcongress.com, click on contribute. “Any donation large or small will get your name on the list to be ferried to the island for the bbq…I just want people to come and meet me and have fun.”
Spellman alluded to expensive dinners and events held by many politicians that seem to alienate many of the citizenry. He is hoping that this type of event will be able to reach out to more people. “I plan on running my Congressional campaign like I did my Supervisor campaign, mostly small local donations. I will take some corporate donations but will not be obligated. I refuse to do that.”

Spellman at 2011 Frog Jump

By, Charity Maness

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Cruisers Ice Cream Parlor Birthday Club

Visit Cruiser's to fill out and submit your member profile:)

Motherlode Friends of the NRA 14th Annual Fund-Raiser

The Motherlode Friends of the NRA
Cordially Invite You to Attend the 14th Annual
NRA Fund-Raiser Dinner & Auction

Saturday, July 10, 2010 at 6:00 PM
San Andreas Town Hall
24 Church Hill Road
San Andreas, CA

Live Auction - Silent Auction - Special Drawings
Including: Limited Edition Firearms, Custom Knives, Art Prints, many items created only for this event and much more!

Vacation Bible School

June 20-24, 2011
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.
Vacation Bible School is for children entering Kindergarten in the Fall 2011 through the 6th grade.
Register on Sunday mornings at the information table or you can register your child on-line at:



EDD Award 6 Million in Grants to Help Veterans Transition into High Paying Jobs

SACRAMENTO –
services to help 1,200 veterans move quickly from military life into high-wage jobs
and civilian careers with a future.
“The men and women of our armed forces leave the safety of civilian life and go in
harm’s way to keep all of us free. Now, as they come home, we have a chance to
say ‘thank you,’” said Pam Harris, Chief Deputy Director of the Employment
Development Department (EDD). “With these new programs we are showing our
appreciation in a tangible and effective way – offering veterans training and
employment services that recognize the skills and experiences of their military
service and smooth the way to successful civilian careers.”

The closest county to Calaveras that was awarded grant money is Stanislaus at a grant amount of $419,195. Vietnam Veterans of California was also awarded a grant in the amount of $465,000.
Nearly $6 million in new state grants will provide individualizedREAD MORE

Romeo and Juliet, Murphys Creek Theater


































For tickets and show times visit
http://www.murphyscreektheatre.org/

Burn Hours to be Suspended July 1, 2011

Cal Fire will begin restricting burn hours in the Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit starting Monday June 20,2011. Suspension of all outdoor burning will go into effect on Friday, July 1.
Outdoor burning is permitted only between the hours of 7 p.m. and 8 a.m. with a valid burn permit on permissive burn days starting Monday.
   
Call 533-5598 or 754-6600 for burn day status.
Only clean, dry vegetation in a pile no larger than 4 by 4 feet can be burned.
Burn permits are available at the Copperopolis CalFire substation during daytime hours.

Happy Father's Day!

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Online Booking for Saddle Creek Tee Times

Saddle Creek makes planning your game even easier -Online tee time bookings are available:

https://saddlecreek.ezlinks.com/(S(zyeztbvrtfobvh55ejvsjouw))/Search/ReservationSearch.aspx

Saddle Creek 18-Hole award winning championship course designed by Carter Morrish opened in 1996 and is topped in rating by only one other course in California, Pebble Beach. The course embraces the natural terrain and beauty of the foothills incorporating natural lakes, streams and native grasses framing each hole. Stretching just over 6,800 yards from the black tees, the championship tees have a slope rating of 137. The mens’ tees measure 6,044 yards with a gentle slope rating of 122 and the ladies’ tees measure 4,486 yards with a slope rating of 117.

Community Support Groups through Cal. Cnty Behavioral Health Services

Behavioral Health Services is pleased to announce six NEW Community Support Groups available AT NO COST to Calaveras County residents. These groups are funded through the Mental Health Services Act Innovation component, with the intent of piloting new programs to increase access to mental health services in the community. Below are a brief description of the groups being provided. Please see the attached flyers for more details and contact information for referrals. Please forward this email to anyone you feel may be interested. For questions regarding the Mental Health Services Act or these groups in general, please contact me at cthompson@co.calaveras.ca.us. Thank you for your support of this new initiative!

EDD to Begin Issuing Debit Cards instead of Checks

Staring as early as July 8, 2011 EDD will begin issuing new EDD debit cards instead of checks.
More information coming soon.

Beer Pong Anyone?

Have you ever wondered how to play the game 'beer pong'? Or maybe you consider yourself an aficionado? Well Micki & Larry's Sports Pub is hosting a 'Beer Pong' tournament this evening (6-18-11) from 6-8 pm at the Sports Pub.
Bring your skills, your love of beer and your competitive spirit!
(Must be 21 to enter the premises and participate.)

After the tournament there will be Karaoke til midnight with special guest bartenders Stacey Nolan and Charity Maness. All proceeds from their bar tending shift will go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society!
Come enjoy the fun!

Calaveras Planning Commision 6-16-11 Meeting Video

CPC 6-16-11 MEETING VIDEO

Courtesy Calaveras Action Project and Calaveras Public Access Television

Happy Birthday Danny - You Rock!

Love all your Copper fans!!!

Final Budget Hearing Video- Board of Supervisors

FINAL BUDGET HEARING VIDEO

Courtesy Calaveras Action Project and Calaveras Public Access Television

Board of Supervisors 6-14-11 Meeting Video

BOS 6-14-11 MEETING VIDEO


The Copper Gazette would like to thank MyValleySprings.com for directing us to this link and also a great thank you to Calaveras Action Project and the Calaveras Public Access Television for video taping the Board of Supervisor meetings to create a greater transperancy for our community.

Friday, June 17, 2011

Car Fire Telegraph and Hwy 4

6-17-11 8:32 pm
Vehicle fire reported highway 4 and Telegraph.
Emergency crews responding.
Use caution if in the area.

Statement by Assemblymember Olsen on Passage of Majority Vote Budget

Assemblymember Kristin Olsen, R-Modesto, issued the following statement following the Legislature's passage of a majority vote budget:
"Californians deserve an on-time, balanced budget that reflects their priorities, but that's not what this proposal is. This budget is only a temporary solution and does nothing to fix California's long-term fiscal health. To get California back on track, we need to right-size government, create jobs, make structural reforms and prioritize public safety and education.
"The Democrat's budget violates the will of the voters and Proposition 26 by raising taxes without a two-thirds vote of the Legislature. That is irresponsible and will likely be litigated in court."

State Controller Comments on Governor's Veto Decision and Proposition 25

State Controller John Chiang today made the following comments regarding the Governor's decision to veto the budget bills enacted Wednesday by the Legislature:


GOVERNOR’S VETO


"With one arm tied behind their backs, Democratic lawmakers attempted to close the budget deficit while not betraying their core values of protecting public safety and education. It fell short because Californians aspire for a balanced budget built on sustainable solutions that will restore the state's fiscal health for the long-term. Anything short of that only invites more of the turmoil, uncertainty, and lost opportunities that have been the hallmarks of budget plans in years past.

9 year old Aspiring Photographer Submits Photos of Music in the Park

9 year old Pearl Rollings enthusiasically took photos of the people and the bands performing at Town Square Wednesday evening for the opening night of the Calaveras Arts Council summer 'Music in the Parks' series.



Thank you Pearl - well done!

Governor and First Lady Honor Lance Cpl. Sean M.N. O’Connor

Lance Cpl. O’Connor, 22, of Douglas, WY, died June 12 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, CA. O’Connor was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

In memorial, Governor Brown ordered that flags be flown at half-staff over the State Capitol today. Lance Cpl. O’Connor’s family will receive a letter of condolence from the Governor.

Snaps Hosting Irish Vineyards tonight for their 'Friday Night Flights'

On Friday, June 17, Snaps will feature Irish Vineyards for their wine event and will also have author Cynthia Kumanchik presenting her new book, Deception. 
Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and music provided by Dan Burton will top off the evening.  The event will start at 5:00pm and go until 8:00pm. 
The weather is changing so it promises to be a beautiful Foothills evening. 
For more information on Snaps visit http://www.snapscoffeehouse.blogspot.com/

Senator Ted Gaines Votes Against Democrat Budget Plan

Senator Ted Gaines (R-Roseville) today issued the following statement regarding the Democrats’ majority-vote budget package:
“This irresponsible budget is full of gimmicks and tricks that don’t actually address the structural reform California desperately needs.  It pushes us deeper into debt by relying too heavily on future tax increases and does nothing to prevent the abusive budget practices that continue to plague our state.”
“The Democrats perpetually place the needs of special interests above those of Californians. Their budget is absent of real pension reform, a hard spending cap, a plan to put people back to work and a change in the way government does business.”
“We need to enact serious, long-term solutions that will not only prevent future financial meltdowns, but will encourage job creation and allow California’s economy to recover.”
The package proposed by majority Democrats includes a quarter-cent increase to the sales tax and a $12 increase to the vehicle registration fees.

CCWD June 21, 2011 Special Meeting Agenda

AGENDA

Late Fire Season Doesn't Lessen Danger- SF Chronicle Article

California's fire season is officially under way and although it started later than usual, fire officials say it could be a more lethal season than seen in several years.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection suspended burn permits and added fire crews throughout most of Northern California on Monday in preparation for the hot, dry months ahead. Because of the deluge of spring rain, grass and brush are thicker than they were during the preceding drought years. That means more fuel for hotter, more relentless fires.
"Once the grasses are dried off, my prediction is that there'll be great opportunity for fire," said Jim Crawford, battalion chief for Cal Fire's Santa Clara Unit, which includes the East Bay and South Bay. "And because the grass is so thick, it's like a thatched roof. It'll burn very hot and be very resistant to being extinguished."

Weekend Weather...SUN!

Friday: Sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind becoming southwest between 4 and 7 mph.

Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 56. Northwest wind between 6 and 10 mph.

Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 84. West northwest wind between 5 and 7 mph.

Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 55.

Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 84.

Sunday Night: Clear, with a low around 58.

Letter from Calaveras County Taxpayers Association Re: 'Lawyer Tax' on Real Estate

Remove the 'Lawyer Tax' on Real Estate
By Jon Coupal and Jennifer Marks
When confronting a complex legal issue, it is wise to seek the professional advice of an attorney. Regrettably, however, some issues have been rendered unnecessarily complex in order to protect the "turf" of the legal community.
This is exactly what happens in California when it comes to designating a beneficiary for your real property. Under current law, real estate is passed to heirs through a will, trust or by joint tenancy with right of survivorship. Wills have to be probated through Probate Court, a costly and time-consuming process that entails both attorney and court fees. Trusts are usually created by an attorney and need to be updated periodically. Both methods are unnecessarily expensive.

Today in History 6-17-88 - Jane Fonda (Hanoi Jane) Issues Public Apology in Barbara Walters Interview

On June 17, 1988 Jane Fonda appeared on 20/20 with Barabara Walters issuing an apology to Vietnam Veterans 16 years after her historical visit to North Vietnam condemning US troops as war criminals and posing for press pictures with NVA gun crews.

Barbara Walters: "There are still people who ... I guess feel you have never apologized. Would you like to just say something to them now?"
Jane Fonda: "Well . . . it's not ... I would like to say something not just to ... the Vietnam veterans ... in New England ... but ... to ... to men who were in Vietnam who ... who I hurt ... or who's pain I caused to ... deepen because of things I said ... or did ... I ... I feel that I owe them an apology ... my intentions were never to hurt them ... or to make their situation worse, it was ... it was the contrary ... I was trying to help end the war ... but there were times when I was thoughtless and careless about it and I ... and I am very sorry
... that I hurt them ... and I want to apologize to them and to their families ...."


Though many in the media and Vietnam Veterans questioned the sincerity and the timing of the apology. At the time Mrs. Fonda was working on a film in New England where Vietnam Veterans were vigorously protesting her presence.



Thursday, June 16, 2011

FEMA, FCC Announce Nationwide Test Of The Emergency Alert System

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The nationwide test will occur on Wednesday, November 9 at 2 p.m. eastern standard time and may last up to three and a half minutes.

Governor Brown Vetoes State Budget

 In a YouTube video and veto message released today, Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. announced that he will not sign Senate Bill 69 and Assembly Bill 98, which together comprise the state budget passed by the Legislature on June 15, 2011.

The YouTube video can be viewed here.

The full text of the veto message is below:

I am returning Senate Bill 69 and Assembly Bill 98 without my signature.

In January, I presented a balanced budget solution with a mix of deep spending cuts and temporary tax extensions subject to voter approval. My plan would put these extended revenues in a lockbox, ensuring that they are only used to protect education and public safety. It would also address California’s long term fiscal crisis by substantially paying down the $35 billion wall of debt built up over the last decade.

Yet Republicans in the Legislature blocked the right of the people to vote on this honest, balanced budget.

Meanwhile, Democrats in the Legislature made valiant efforts to address California’s budget crisis by enacting $11 billion in painful cuts and other solutions. I commend them for their tremendous efforts to balance the budget in the absence of Republican cooperation.

Unfortunately, the budget I have received is not a balanced solution. It continues big deficits for years to come and adds billions of dollars of new debt. It also contains legally questionable maneuvers, costly borrowing and unrealistic savings. Finally, it is not financeable and therefore will not allow us to meet our obligations as they occur.

We can – and must – do better. A balanced budget is critical to our economic recovery. I am, once again, calling on Republicans to allow the people of California to vote on tax extensions for a balanced budget and significant reforms. They should also join Democrats in supporting job creation and ending tax breaks for out-of-state companies. If they continue to obstruct a vote, we will be forced to pursue deeper and more destructive cuts to schools and public safety– a tragedy for which Republicans will bear full responsibility.

Copperopolis Food Pantry Distribution Today

The Copperoplis Food Pantry will be making their monthly food distribution this afternoon from 2-4 pm at 90 Rock Creek Rd.
Food is available for families and individuals that live in Copperopolis.

Opening Night of Calaveras Arts Council 'Music in the Parks' was a Hit

The Tour Guides and Cantamos kicked off the opening Music in the Park series in the beautiful Copperopolis Town Square Wednesday night. The weather was amazing, the family atmosphere comfortable, and the music...well the music was nothing less than amazing!

Cantamos lead singer Michela Macfarlane, in her final month of pregnany, enchanted the audience with her mix of Italian, Portuguese and Spanish lyrics. Originally a baroque soprano, Michela has found a home among the jazz and folk influenced music genres.

The two bands, though seperate in styles, blended beautifully to create an evening of moving and memorable music.

The Lake Tulloch Quilters were on hand raffling their latest textile creation, the wine was flowing and of course dancing was a must, and the folks of Copper did not dissappoint.






MORE PICTURES

By, Charity Maness

Inmate Escape at North Kern Prison

An inmate housed at North Kern State Prison has been reported missing.

Staff discovered inmate Ricky Lynn Wallis missing from the Minimum Support Facility portion of the prison at 9:15 p.m. on June 14, 2011. Prison staff implemented escape procedures at 9:30 p.m.
 

Wallis is a 52 year old white male, 5’11” tall and weighing 150 pounds. Wallis has an average build with hazel eyes, a moustache,¬ and short grey/blond hair. Wallis may have recently shaved his hair. Wallis was committed from Tulare County and was serving a 3 year term for the purchase of a stolen vehicle. Wallis arrived at North Kern State Prison on July 22, 2010, and was housed within the Minimum Support Facility portion of the prison in a 200-man dormitory. Wallis was due to parole November 2011.
 

Reaction To Budget Vote

Sacramento, CA -- The Senate and the Assembly have passed a new budget for California.
Democrats passed a plan with a party line vote that does not call for a special election regarding the extension of temporary tax increases. Governor Jerry Brown could not get the needed handful of Republicans in support.
Republican lawmakers felt the budget was thrown together quickly and will not hold up over the coming months. Education, public safety and the courts take a hit with the revised spending plan.
"Californians deserve an on-time, balanced budget that reflects their priorities, but that's not what this proposal is," says Kristin Olsen, District 25 Assemblywoman. "This budget is only a temporary solution and does nothing to fix California's long-term fiscal health. To get California back on track, we need to right-size government, create jobs, make structural reforms and prioritize public safety and education."

READ MORE MyMotherlode

Statement by Assemblymember Olsen on Passage of Majority Vote Budget

Assemblymember Kristin Olsen, R-Modesto, today issued the following statement following the Legislature’s passage of a majority vote budget:

“Californians deserve an on-time, balanced budget that reflects their priorities, but that's not what this proposal is. This budget is only a temporary solution and does nothing to fix California’s long-term fiscal health. To get California back on track, we need to right-size government, create jobs, make structural reforms and prioritize public safety and education.

“The Democrat’s budget violates the will of the voters and Proposition 26 by raising taxes without a two-thirds vote of the Legislature. That is irresponsible and will likely be litigated in court.”

Governor and First Lady Honor Lance Cpl. Nicholas S. O’Brien

Lance Cpl. Nicholas S. O’Brien, 21, of Stanley, NC, died June 9 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, CA. O’Brien was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
In memorial, Governor Brown ordered that flags be flown at half-staff over the State Capitol today. Lance Cpl. O’Brien’s family will receive a letter of condolence from the Governor.

Calaveras Visitors Bureau 'Discover Calaveras' Comes to Copper

Calaveras Visitors Bureau second stop in their Discover Calaveras summer line up was Billie B. Kane's Once Upon a Time on the Square Mercantile in Town Square.  Billie gladly and enthusitically opened her doors to the Calaveras community on Wednesday evening to share her unique and interesting store. Billie carries a vast and varied collection of books and magazines in Once Upon a Time; proudly showcasing local authors and their literary creations. Along with an interactive childrens' section where children can play and read there also are banners, stained glass, candles, toys, seasonal gifts, and so much more.

Ironstone Vineyards was pouring a nice selection of wines adding to the festive occasion.



Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Board of Supervisors Preliminary Agenda 6-21-11 meeting

June 21, 2011

PRELIMINARY AGENDA

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

IF YOU WISH TO ADDRESS THE BOARD ON AN AGENDA ITEM, PLEASE COME TO THE ROSTRUM AND GIVE YOUR NAME AND YOUR COMMENTS.  PLEASE LIMIT YOUR COMMENTS TO THE SPECIFIC SUBJECT UNDER DISCUSSION.  TIME LIMITS SHALL BE AT THE DISCRETION OF THE CHAIR.
9:00  AM:  Call to Order
      Pledge of Allegiance
      Announcements
CONSENT AGENDA

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS ARE EXPECTED TO BE ROUTINE AND NON-CONTROVERSIAL.  THEY WILL BE ACTED UPON BY THE BOARD AT ONE TIME WITHOUT DISCUSSION.  ANY BOARD MEMBER, STAFF MEMBER OR INTERESTED PARTY MAY REQUEST REMOVAL OF AN ITEM FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA FOR LATER DISCUSSION.
1.            MINUTES of a regular meeting held on June 7, 2011.
2.            CORRESPONDENCE:   :    June 6 - 10, 2011 (see attached) – Board action:
3.            RESOLUTION acting as the Governing Body of Community Facilities District No. 2 (Saddle Creek) ordering judicial foreclosure of delinquent social taxes pursuant to the Mello-Roos Community Facilities Act of 1982 and ordering that the Tax Collector be credited with those taxes; Treasurer-Tax Collector – Board action:
REGULAR AGENDA
9:10 AM:  PUBLIC COMMENTS
 4.   PUBLIC COMMENTS:  5 minutes per person.  Comments shall be limited to items of interest to the public that are within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Board; Government Code Section 54954.3(a).

State Controller Releases May Cash Update

State Controller John Chiang today released his monthly report covering California’s cash balance, receipts and disbursements in May. Total revenues for the month were $408.3 million above (5.9 percent) estimates found in the May Revision of the Governor’s proposed 2011-12 budget.

“Many indicators show that our state is still moving towards recovery, but a prolonged budget deadlock could needlessly endanger that progress,” said Chiang. “The Legislature can do no greater service to California’s economy than to deliver a balanced, sustainable and on-time state budget.

Sales taxes were over projections by $305.9 million (9.0 percent) in May, and personal income taxes were up $12.3 million (0.4 percent). Corporate taxes were down $11.1 million (-3.9 percent).

The State faced a $14.9 billion cash deficit on May 31. That deficit was covered by $7.1 billion of internal borrowing – short term loans from special funds – and $7.8 billion of external borrowing.

May 2011’s financial statement and the summary analysis can found on the Controller’s Web site at http://www.sco.ca.gov/.

Wednesday Happenings in Copper

Discover Calaveras 5-6:30 at Once Upon a Time on the Square.
Discover Calaveras is presented by The Calaveras Visitors Bureau.
Come join the fun. Mingle, sip, and discover what's new in Calaveras County.
Once Upon a Time on the Square will be hosting the event Wed. June 15 from 5pm-6:30pm.
Directly after the Calaveras Arts Council will present Music in the Park. So stick around! Cost: Free. Visitors & Residents welcome.

Opening night of Calaveras Arts Council's Music in the Park Summer Series.
This year the concert series will be kicked off in our own Copperopolis Town Square on June 15, 2011 from 6:30 to 8:00. The featured artists will be 'The Tour Guides & Cantamos' a combo rock and latin group infused with stunning vocals that will bring a crowd to their feet...for dancing that is.
The Tours Guides & Cantamos play a little bit of something for everyone all the while their passion clearly seeping through each note, each word.
Each concert is free. Bring your chair and your friends. Come enjoy an evening of live music, compliments of the Calaveras Arts Council.

Copperopolis Food Pantry Distribution this Thursday

The Copperopolis Community Food Pantry distribution day is this Thursday, June 16 from 2-4pm at the Church of the Ascension. The address is 90 Rock Creek Rd,Ste. 5. Food is available for families and individuals who live in Copperopolis.


Skill Builder Workshop - Lets the Creative Juices Flow

When Maggie Rollings, long time education advocate and mother of two, saw the long summer months of lost learning time peering at her over the horizon, she began to plan. Her plan? To create a learning environment that is fun and "strengthens the mind."

Spending the past few years volunteering in multpile classrooms with varying age groups, along with conducting the Read Naturally program at Copperopolis Elementary, has allowed Maggie to "learn where kids need to connect the dots...and to use their talents to connect those dots." With this knowledge she created the 'Skill Builder Workshop' held at the Copper Branch Library every Tuesday this summer from
1-3 pm. This workshop is free and fun.


State Eliminates 29,398 State issued Cell Phones

Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. today announced that the state has eliminated 29,398 cell phones, achieving a 44 percent reduction in the number of phones issued to state employees in state agencies and departments under the Governor’s direct authority.

Deeper cuts will be made in the next 30 days in order to reach the target number of 33,559 cell phones and achieve the 50 percent reduction outlined in an Executive Order issued on January 11, 2011. The 50 percent reduction is expected to save taxpayers at least $13 million.


Tuesday, June 14, 2011

The Pentagon Papers Released

Pentagon Papers, government study of U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia. Commissioned by Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara in June, 1967, the 47-volume, top secret study covered the period from World War II to May, 1968. It was written by a team of analysts who had access to classified documents, and was completed in Jan., 1969. The study revealed a considerable degree of miscalculation, bureaucratic arrogance, and deception on the part of U.S. policymakers.