Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Kids Camp June 6-10

CHP Press Release - Memorial Weekend Statistics

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 31, 2011             

CHP Memorial Weekend Statistics


SAN ANDREASStatewide the number of accidents were up and DUI arrests were down for the Memorial weekend compared to last year.  Statewide, the CHP arrested 1367 drivers on suspicion of driving under the influence compared to 1541 for the same period last year.  12 people died in automobile accidents in the state this year, which is the same as last year.

In Calaveras County, 5 arrests were made by the CHP between 6:00 pm Friday and 11:59 pm Sunday.  Last year the CHP arrested 2 people.  Our officers handled 7 accidents compared to a total of 5 accidents last year.  Fortunately we again had no fatalities for the weekend.

The San Andreas CHP Officers were working hard at slowing motorists down.  During the holiday weekend they wrote 49 citations.  Most were for speeding, several mechanical violations, one citation was for not wearing a seatbelt and another for a child restraint violation.

Safety, Service and Security

Copperopolis Homecoming June 4, 2011

Spellman Forum Re-cap 5-26-11

Transparency was again an issue at Spellman’s weekly forum held at Snaps Coffee House every Thursday at 2:30. Recently Clerk to the Board Krska stated that there would be “a two week lag time” between BOS meeting minutes taken and minutes approved and would then post as quickly as possible after approval to the County Supervisors’ website. It was pointed out to Spellman that the posting on the minutes has run at a snail’s pace; in fact at the time of this forum the public had not been informed for 29 days what exactly their elected officials had spoken about or had voted upon through internet access to minutes. Spellman did point out that videos of the Board of Supervisors meeting were available at various sites yet he understood the desire for his constituents to follow up on a single agenda item, not 2 plus hours of meetings. Spellman had contacted Krska’s office prior to the forum and was informed that the clerks’ office was hoping to produce minutes with only one week lag time. To date, this has not occurred.

Auditions for CSTAR's Summer Production of Hercules

It's time to get the party started for summer 2011! Auditions will be held for CSTARS summer production of "Hercules," with three different dates!

Creative Writing Contest Inspired by 'Summer Fun in Copperopolis'

Mrs. Young’s third grade class at Copperopolis Elementary School recently participated in a writing contest hosted by Once Upon a Time on the Square and the Copper Gazette, promoting creative writing.

The only guidelines given to the eager 8 and 9 year-old children were to write one paragraph minimum with the subject being “Summer fun in Copper.” Imagination and creativity were considered a must for this contest.

Billie B. Kane, owner of Once Upon a Time on the Square was selected to judge the creative submissions and generously offered to provide the winner with a $10.00 gift certificate to her wonderful mercantile store. After careful consideration Billie was able to choose three top entries saying it was “really not an easy choice, these young people sound amazing.”

First Place went to Jesse for ‘Getting Really Wet in Copper’
This summer there are some amazing things I can do during the swetty months.    The first thing I would do in the Summer is I would get alot of water and go up into space and make a GIGANTIC water balloon.   I would push to DROP button and the balloon would fall over the whole town and we would make the national news for being the coolest town.    Next,  I would go swimming in Lake Tulloch.   Then, meators would crash in and make a huge tidal wave and cover the branches with water.   Water gun fights are on the list and I would win with a big water soaker.  Last, we would go in the pool and relax.   There's alot to do in the SUMMER TIME in Copper.
Jesse won a $10.00 Gift Certificate to Once Upon a Time on the Square

Billie B. Kane and Jesse

Bret Harte High School Graduation

The Bret Harte High School class of 2011 will be graduating Friday June 3, 2011 7:30-9:30 pm Bret Harte High School- Dorrington Field.

Congratulations Graduates!!!

Celebrating Families Event

Camren Herrin Receives Coaches Award

Camren Herrin of Copperopolis recently received the Coaches Award for High School JV baseball.
Camren has been playing baseball for 7 years now and by watching his commitment, one can tell he loves the game.
The award was presented to him by his JV coach at Bret Harte this year, Sr. Sadler. Yet both Sr. Sadler and Mr. Sadler made the decision to award Camren with this coveted award.
This was Camren's freshman year...watch out 10th grade...here he comes!
Congratulations Camren!

'Gus' needs a home

Gus (Gustopherson) is a 5 pound 5 1/2 month old Chihuahua mix. He and his companion lost their home, and Gus and his brother Pan need new forever homes. A loving little guy, Gus is using the doggy door and learning not to potty inside. He is crate trained, learning to walk on leash, loves humans and other dogs. He would love to find a home that can take both he and his brother but really needs to be with another dog no matter the size. His foster dog pal is a Border Collie. Gus has his rabies shot, in the process of getting all of his puppy shots and will be neutered this week. ==================================================================
Email Judy to obtain a copy of our questionnaire, which is the first step in our adoption process. All of our dogs are tested for heartworm disease and are negative and on preventative. Puppies are immediately put on...
Spayed/Neutered • Up-to-date with routine shots • Primary color: Yellow, Tan, Blond or Fawn • Coat length: Medium

Gus's Contact Info

Calaveras Humane Society, Vallecito, CA
  • 209-736-9417

Governor and First Lady Honor Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo

On behalf of all Californians, Governor Brown and First Lady Anne Gust Brown honor Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo, who bravely gave his life in service to our state and nation. The Governor and First Lady extend their deepest condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.

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

***


Sgt. Kristofferson B. Lorenzo, 33, of Chula Vista, CA, died May 23 in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, HI. Lorenzo was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Monday, May 30, 2011

Local Author Charity Maness Unveils her Latest Work in Progress

Local author Charity Maness, collaborating with Micki Phillips, is writing a non-fiction book based on love letters from Vietnam, years '66 & '67.

"In 2010 Michelle (Micki) Phillips (previously Micki Piper) approached me and asked if I would be interested in writing a story based on love letters from the Vietnam War era. While my writing at the time leaned toward romance novels and cub reporting my interest was piqued. When she informed me the letters she was referring to were letters written to her from her husband who died from small arms fire in the Vietnam War leaving her a young widow, my heart broke.
To be allowed the intimate glimpse into her life, the life she shared so briefly with her young husband, and to then share his letters with the world was without a doubt an honor I would not take lightly.
How better to honor, not only her husband’s memory, but the memory of all the servicemen that never made it home to hold their wives, their daughters, their sisters, their mothers."

Carefully collaborating each dated letter with what occured that day in history "has been an emotional and exhausting experience" said Charity. "As the book progresses I become more and more disheartened, as I know the final outcome. I have come to really like this young man, PFC James Dennis Piper, and I find I am helpless to control the ending."
James Dennis Piper 1965


The following is an excerpt from the book:

Marine Presents Vietnam Widow with Rubbing from 'The Wall' in D.C.

When Micki Phillips, owner of Micki & Larry's Sports Pub, was informed that her husband PFC James Dennis Piper was killed in action on April 11, 1967, she thought her world had come to an end.

44 years later, the memory not dulled with time, Micki has collaborated with local author Charity Maness to write a book based on Jim's love letters. Armed with all Jim's letters, prom pictures, draft notice, boot camp photos and more, Charity began in earnest documenting Jim's life as he changed from civilian to soldier, boy to man, finally paying the ultimate sacrifice in the jungles of Vietnam in the Binh Dinh Valley as part of the US Army Co.A 1st Bn 8th Cav 1st Cavalry Division Airmobile.

Receiving research help from local Vietnam veteran Jim Vinson (USMC Co. D 1st Bat, 7th Marines, 1st MarDiv) along with information from LBJ's personal diaries and other information sources, Charity has been able to correlate each letter with what was occurring on that specific date in Vietnam and America. "Though the research is intense, the emotional toll is much more significant. I am finding that I truly like this man and I do not want the story to end, because, unfortunately, I do know how it ends."

As more people learned of Charity's efforts and Micki's loss so long ago, more veteran's stepped up to help in any way they could. One such veteran was USMC Ric Ryan, otherwise known as the 'walking man of Murphy's.' Ric was slated to take a vacation, a journey he had only hoped of completing before he passed away, to the Vietnam Wall in Washington D.C., to say his final farewell to those he once knew and had the privilege of calling 'friend.' During his heart wrenching visit Ric was able to remember Micki and her first husband James Dennis Piper. He located Jim on 'The Wall' and made a rubbing for Micki. He took pictures and procured paperwork with his name and rank. Going the extra mile, as Ric is known to do, he then had each of the photos and rubbings framed for Micki. He delivered the framed gift to Charity, who in turn delivered it to Micki.

Micki and her husband Larry Phillips, also a Vietnam Veteran, were moved beyond words at the gift bestowed upon them. The framed gift is on display at the Sports Pub and Micki is hoping to have it on display at Homecoming, either in the Armory or near the Historic 150th Anniversary wall where James has a brick in his name.

The picture below is of Micki and Ric's first meeting, the photo of James Dennis Piper on 'the wall' and the rubbing.



Micki Phillips and Ric Ryan

James D Piper rubbing on 'The Wall'

James D Piper ...never forgotten

By, Charity Maness

Memorial Day ~ By, Charity Maness

In the country, patriotism is not just a word but a way of life.
While some view Memorial Day as simply a day off school, or maybe a paid day off, here in the country we view it a bit differently. We proudly raise our flags for all to see. We clean our cemeteries, carefully placing flags on the graves of those that passed serving their country. We erect monuments with each brick engraved paying tribute or honoring a military veteran. We build Veterans’ memorial parks for our children to play; create Veteran Memorial Districts so that vets have a place to congregate, communicate, receive assistance and aid. But mostly we honor our fallen with the respect and dignity that they so deserve.
 Here in the country, a soldier that has fought and died for his country, is not just a fallen hero, he is OUR soldier, he is OUR hero. People that do not know this fallen soldier come out in force, proudly waving flags, holding signs of blessings, raising banners of thanks, and sending their love to the soldier’s parents. Those same parents that gave the greatest gift ever bestowed upon them to us... the American people... to help defend our freedoms and our way of life.
When you think of Memorial Day please try to remember, it’s not just another holiday, the freedoms we take for granted every day were made possible by a vet.
Got freedom?.......Thank a vet.
Please take a moment today to remember those that have died in our nation's service.


Service members from the Valley and the Foothills that have lost theirs lives in Iraq and Afghanistan

    • Marine Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer, 43, Modesto, May 12, 2011, Helmand, Afghanistan
    • Marine Lance Cpl. Gavin Brummund, Arnold, June 9, 2010, Helmand, Afghanistan
    • Army Pfc. Lukas C. Hopper, 20, Merced, Oct. 30, 2009, Karadah, Iraq
    • Petty Officer 3rd Class James R. Layton, 22, Riverbank, Sept. 8, 2009, Afghanistan
    • Army Lt. Daniel Hyde, 24, Modesto, March 7, 2009, Samarra, Iraq
    • Marine Staff Sgt. Daniel L. Hansen, 24, Tracy, Feb. 14, 2009, Afghanistan
    • Army Spc. Tony J. Gonzales, 20, Newman, Dec. 28, 2008, Sadr City, Iraq
    • Army Sgt. Frank J. Gasper, 25, of Merced County, May 25, 2008, Najaf, Iraq
    • Army Sgt. Robert T. Rapp, 22, Sonora, March 3, 2008, Afghanistan
    • Army Sgt. Matthew L. Tallman, 30, Groveland, Aug. 22, 2007, Multaka, Iraq
    • Army Pfc. Bruce Salazar Jr., 24, Modesto, July 6, 2007, Iraq
    • Marine Cpl. Charles O. Palmer II, 36, Manteca, May 5, 2007, Anbar province, Iraq
    • Marine Cpl. Joshua Pickard, 20, Merced, Dec. 19, 2006, Anbar province
    • Army Sgt. 1st Class Tung M. Nguyen, 38, Tracy, Nov. 14, 2006, Baghdad
    • Army Staff Sgt. Joseph A. Gage, 28, Modesto, Nov. 2, 2006, Baghdad
    • Marine Lance Cpl. Aaron William Simons, 20, Modesto, April 24, 2006, al-Qaim, Iraq
    • Marine Lance Cpl. Juana Navarro, 24, Ceres, April 8, 2006, Anbar Province, Iraq
      • Army Sgt. Dale G.M. Brehm, 23, Turlock, March 19, 2006, Ramadi, Iraq
      • Marine Lance Cpl. Bunny Long, 22, Modesto, March 10, 2006, near Fallujah, Iraq
      • Army Sgt. 1st Class Chad Gonsalves, 31, Turlock, Feb. 13, 2006, Afghanistan
      • Marine Lance Cpl. Brandon Dewey, 20, Tracy, Jan. 20, 2006, Haqlaniyah, Iraq
        • Army Pfc. Antonio 'Tony' Mendez, 22, Patterson, Nov. 11, 2005, Kirkuk, Iraq
        • Army Capt. Raymond D. Hill II, 39, Turlock, Oct. 29, 2005, Baghdad
        • Army Pfc. Oscar Sanchez, 19, Modesto, Dec. 29, 2004, Mosul, Iraq
        • Marine Cpl. Michael D. Anderson Jr., 21, Modesto, Dec. 14, 2004, Fallujah, Iraq
        • Army Pfc. Jesse J. Martinez, 20, Tracy, July 14, 2004, Tal Afar, Iraq
        • Army Sgt. Patrick R. McCaffrey Sr., 34, Tracy, June 22, 2004, Balad, Iraq
        • Army 1st Lt. Michael W. Vega, 41, Lathrop, March 20, 2004, Diwaniyah, Iraq
        • Army Staff Sgt. Steven H. Bridges, 33, Tracy, Dec. 8, 2003, Balad, Iraq
        • Army Pfc. Karina S. Lau, 20, Livingston, Nov. 2, 2003, near Fallujah, Iraq
          • Marine Gunnery Sgt. Joseph Menusa, 33, Tracy, March 27, 2003, Iraq
              Source Modesto Bee

            Sunday, May 29, 2011

            Copper Veterans Participate in “Operation: Flags of our Fathers” Memorial Day Convoy

            Copperopolis veterans, from three separate foreign wars: WWII, Korea and Vietnam, will be riding in a convoy of refurbished WWII jeeps on Memorial Day, honoring fallen heroes at four separate cemeteries and four American Legion Posts along the valley route.
            Bill Skellenger (Korea) will be driving his restored WWII Restored 1945 Willys Jeep. Riding with Bill will be Al Gilbert (Vietnam) and Mel Ogg (WWII). And handling the radio communication will be Lynne Ernest. Roberto and Carmen Barajas will be driving their restored WWII military jeep.

            The 75 mile convoy will begin in Lodi at the Cherokee Memorial Park, from there they will be honoring fallen military at San Joaquin Cemetery in Stockton, Parkview Cemetery in French Camp, Union Memorial Cemetery in Manteca, and finally Collegeville Cemetery just outside of Stockton. On their course they will visit American Legion Posts 22, 803, 249, and 16.
            David LeBrecque, a 13 year Air Force veteran, member of the Military Vehicle Collectors of California (MVCC) and organizer of this event, said that their main purpose for the Memorial Day Logistics Movement is "to commemorate the sacrafices made by our service mena dn women, past and present, who have given their lives to protect the freedom of all Americans." The convoy will be an honoring presence, not only at each site visited, but along the convoy route, “sharing the experience (of patriotism) with people.” David’s brother (Navy veteran 11 years), his daughter (Air Force) and his niece will all be participating in this event; all dressed in period military clothing.
            This is the first annual “Operation: Flags of our Fathers” Memorial Day convoy. If you are interested in participating next year please contact David at gpwdave@gmail.com.

            Bill Skellenger's Willys



            The Secret Garden - Library Fund Raiser

            'Fill the Boot' for the Food Pantry a success

            The Copperopolis Fire District Firefighters and volunteers turned out in force on May 28, 2011 to host their annual 'Fill the Boot' for the food pantry.
            The final count for this year was $2,205.00.
            In previous years that would hae be equivilant to 1/4 to 1/3 of the annual budget for our local food pantry.
            During these tough economic times this money goes a long way to helping local people in need.
            Father Jim Stout of the Church of the Acension was on hand for the event and excitedly called with the total; touched again by how strong our community is, how giving and caring.
            Matt Moore, Brian Nolan

            Marshall Maness, Levi Rollings

            Kids Fishing Fun Fair 6-11-11

            Saturday, May 28, 2011

            Rove Across America- Frog Jump Special on Jay Leno

            Here are a couple links to video clips from 'Rove Across America' highlighting the Calaveras Frog Jumping Jubilee.

            http://www.nbc.com/the-tonight-show/video/rove-across-america-part-1-5-27-11/1330723

            http://www.nbc.com/the-tonight-show/video/rove-across-america-part-2-5-27-11/1330724

            CFPD Board meeting today

            Copper Holdings Company at Sports Pub TONIGHT!

            If you love 70's and 80's rock and roll you may just want to stop by Micki & Larrys Sports Pub tonight from 8 - midnight to enjoy the amazing sound of our local rock n roll band the Copper Holdings Company.

            'Fill The Boot' today at IGA

            The Copperopolis Firefighters, along with Copperopolis food pantry personnel, will be at Payless IGA hosting their annual 'Fill the Boot.'
            Each year the fill the boot event raises much needed funds for the Copperopolis Food Pantry, allowing more food to be purchased and subsequently more mouths to be fed.
            Stop on by, between 10-2. and help 'Fill the Boot.'

            The George M. Truemper Masonic Scholarship awards a $10,000 scholarship to Bret Harte senior

            Gabriel David Sagewalker received a $10,00 scholarship after completing his senior year at Bret Harte High School. He finished number 2 in his class with a GPA of 4.00. Through his entire years at Bret Harte he never received less than an A in each of his classes. He has chosen Harvard as his choice of colleges to attend.

            While at Bret Harte he was active on the soccer team and excelled in tennis. He has taken piano lessons since second grade, saxaphone lessons since fifth grade, and clarinet lessons since eighth grade. He is currently working on recording his own composition for his senior project. In college he wants to pursue a career in clean energy, as well as write novels and produce music.

            Krinkles the Clown at Once Upon a Time TODAY

            Friday, May 27, 2011

            Copper School Presents their Math Whiz Kids


             The 31st Annual Math Mini-Bowl was held on Thursday. It was a competition amongst the brightest math students in the fifth and sixth grades in all of Calaveras County. The following students were chosen by their math teachers because of their top-notch math ability.

            Representing 5th grade: Emilee Clark, Max Meyer, Lauren Emerick, Skylar Pilati, Ashley Hibdon, Shileen Andico, Makayla Avalos, Alexia Stafford, Catelyn Baker, Chloe Caywood
            Representing 6th grade: Grace Garcia, Karen Medina, Brioni Pool, Zaira Sanchez, Christine Lora, Dakota Wagner, Lourraine Estacio, Sidney Clark, Tyler Queirolo, Travis Warlaumont

            Veterans to Walk in Homecoming Parade

            Calling All Veterans
            The Action Committee to form a Copperopolis VFW would like to invite ALL local veterans to walk with them in the Copperopolis Homecoming Parade June 4, 2011 11:00 AM.
            Veterans will be led by flags representing each branch of the service along with military jeeps restored to their original glory. Come support your fellow veterans and receive the recognition and thanks you so deserve.
            If you would like to join us please call Bill at 785-2767 or email coppervfw@gmail.com for more information.

            Host Rove McManus highlights the Frog Jump on the 'Tonight Show'

            Australian Rove McManus entertained the crowd on Sunday at the Calaveras County Fair and Frog Jumping Jubilee covering and promoting his hosted segment on the Frog Jump titled "Rove Across America" that is set to air Friday evening 5-27-11 on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.







            No BOS meeting 5-31-11

            May 31, 2011

            PRELIMINARY AGENDA

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



            There will be no meeting of
            the Board of Supervisors
            on May 31, 2011,
            as it is the 5th Tuesday of the month.

            The next regular meeting will be held on
            June 7, 2011.

            Riders from Amador and Calaveras Participating in 'Run for the Wall' CA to DC ride to remember POW's and MIA

            Eleven Riders from Amador Chapter 108 American Legion Riders are participating in the XXIV Central Route 2011 : Run For The Wall Motorcycle Event which began on May 18 in Rancho Cucamonga, California and will conclude on May 27, 2011 in Washington D.C. On Memorial Day Sunday, the California group will unite with other riders from all over the country to form Rolling Thunder XXIV, a “Welcome Home” and “We Have Not Forgotten” Parade from the Pentagon to the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial – “THE WALL”. Each year over 500,000 bikes participate. “We will not go away until everyone is home!”

            The rides’ motto: We ride for those who can't.

            The Amador Chapter 108 American Legion Riders are:
            Poncho Villa
            Denver Strauss,
            Ed Medford
            Brian Dommes
            Sam Raal
            Steve Gast
            Brian Lapworth
            Jim Mote
            Kali Mote.
            Barnes Villa-Cage
            Janel Lapworth-Cage

            Run for the Wall:

            Mission Statement: To promote healing among ALL veterans and their families and friends, to call for an accounting of all Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action (POW/MIA), to honor the memory of those Killed in Action (KIA) from all wars, and to support our military personnel all over the world.

            Philosophy: We strive to maintain a safe, supportive and private atmosphere in which all participants can reflect and heal on their journey to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. in the hope that they can return home to a new beginning.

            Goals:
            To guide the participants across America.

            To educate future generations as to the importance of accountability in wartime actions emphasizing that no one should be left behind.

            To participate in Rolling Thunder in support of their demand for government accountability for POW/MIA's.

            To learn more about the Run for the Wall visit their website at http://www.rftw.org/

            By, Charity Maness

            Thursday, May 26, 2011

            Prepping the Community Garden ~ By, John Howsden

            Prepping the Community Garden
            By John Howsden

            Early on a warm Saturday morning last week, Doug Rocky and Jack Jimenez prepared the Bill Albee Memorial Copperopolis Community Garden for spring planting. Doug, with his agile Bob Cat, spread over twenty yards of topsoil. Meanwhile Jack, using his industrial strength weed whacker, cut down bushels of dry grass around the fence line.

            Even with the late rain storms; the top soil was warm and smelled of freshly turned earth. With the soil primed for seeding and the area clear of weeds, the volunteers are off to the next phase—planting.

            Those interested in volunteers or donating to the community garden can contact Copperopolis Parks & Recreation at copperparks@yahoo.com or call 785-PARK.   



            Governor and First Lady Honor Pfc. Ramon Mora Jr.

            On behalf of all Californians, Governor Brown and First Lady Anne Gust Brown honor Pfc. Ramon Mora Jr., who bravely gave his life in service to our state and nation. The Governor and First Lady extend their deepest condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.

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


            Pfc. Ramon Mora Jr., 19, of Ontario, CA, died May 22 in Baghdad, Iraq, of injuries sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 63rd Armor, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, KS. Mora was supporting Operation New Dawn.

            CFPD Volunteer Stacey Nolan visits Headstart

            On May 25, 2011 Copperopolis Fire Protection District Volunteer firefighter /prevention specialist Stacey Nolan visited the Copperopolis Headstart greeting children, reading a book, discussing fire safety: smoke detectors, stop-drop-roll, and basic 911 procedures, teaching simple sign language that incorporates fire safety and finally inviting the children to visit the fire engine waiting just outside the front doors.

            With plastic fire helmets and junior fire badges in place the excited children each got a turn to sit at the helm of a real fire engine and talk with real firefighters Stacey Nolan, Nick Maness, Aaron Smith, Johnathan Villanueva and Paramedic Desiree Jimenez.



            stop - drop - roll technique

            MORE PICTURES

            By, Charity Maness

            CDCR Secretary Matthew Cate Issues Statement on U.S. Supreme Court Ruling Affirming Inmate Reductions

            “The U.S. Supreme Court has spoken, and in their ruling affirmed a lower court’s decision to reduce California’s inmate population. It is disappointing that the court did not consider the numerous improvements made in health-care delivery to inmates in the past five years, as well as the significant reduction in the inmate population.

            “California’s inmate population has been reduced to levels not seen since 1995, and non-traditional beds have been eliminated by nearly 13,000. We’ve come a long way in both population reduction measures and in the quality of care given to inmates.

            “To meet this order, CDCR cannot act alone. It will take cooperation from all facets of state and local government. We particularly need the support and cooperation of the Legislature with the immediate funding and implementation of AB 109, the Public Safety Realignment plan signed by Governor Brown on April 4. The Governor has repeatedly called for full and constitutionally protected funding of this bill to allow certain offenders to serve their incarceration and parole term under local supervision.

            “We appreciate that the U.S. Supreme Court acknowledged that it may be warranted for the State to request that the district court modify its population reduction order – including establishment of more appropriate timeframes, if necessary, to implement inmate reduction proposals as safely as possible – or to request termination of ongoing injunctive relief.”

            Lead Mechanic Job Listed with County

            Journeyman mechanic needed to plan, coordinate, supervise and participate in major and minor mechanical repairs on trucks and other maintenance equipment.
            Education and Experience:  Equivalent to graduation from high school and a minimum of three (3) years journey-level experience.  Completion of a related apprenticeship program may substitute for one (1) year of required experience.
            Salary:  $18.66 - $22.70 hr.
            Final Filing Date:  Wednesday, June 15, 2011
            for more info click HERE

            Wednesday, May 25, 2011

            Krinkles the Clown Coming to Once Upon a Time on the Square in Copper

            CFPD Agenda 5-28-11

            New Melones Fishing Report

            Water Conditions:  New Melones Lake is currently holding 2,052,424 acre-feet of water.  The lake level rose three feet this week and is currently at 1057 ft. above sea level and 31 ft. from full capacity.  Water temperature has cooled to is 64-66 degrees.  Water is fairly clear, with some staining in areas.   Watch for floating debris, unmarked island tops, and rattlesnakes that have been flooded from their holes- we have had reports of waterlogged snakes climbing into boats. 

            Trout:    With the kokanee action so hot, few anglers are targeting trout, but we are seeing the occasional rainbow thrown in with a limit of kokanee.   Bank anglers could also head to local creeks like Angels Creek.  Trollers should try the main lake, from 15-30 feet deep, and tie on an Uncle Larry’s Power Spin, that is designed to hold Power Bait while trolling, since Power Bait is designed to smell like the hatchery feed the penned trout have been eating.  Boaters should also try nosing up into creek arms where there is running water, and still-fish there for nice holdovers.


            Prime Rib 5-27-11 at the Old Corner Saloon

            SRT's 'Boeing Boeing' playing now thru June 12, 2011

            Boeing-Boeing, a classic 60s farce that takes audiences to first-class comedic heights, plays at the Historic Fallon House Theatre in Columbia State Historic Park and runs through June 12.   



            Pictured:  Bernard (Clayton B. Hodges) catches his fiancée Jacqueline (of Air France) when Robert (Dustin Tucker) tries to get her shoes on.

            Photo credit: Rich Miller Photography
                             
            Now through June 12; Thursday and Friday evening performances begin at 7, Saturday evening shows begin at 8 and Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday matinees begin at 2. Call the box office at (209) 532-3120 or visit us online at www.sierrarep.org

            Great Foothill Ride for Motorcycle Enthusiasts

            Ebbetts Pass, Sonora Loop
            This is an all day ride that goes past "Big Trees", Bear Valley Ski Resort, over Monitor Pass then over Sonora Pass. Bring warm clothes as it can get cold at the passes. And be carefull on the east side of Rt. 4, it's narrow and can have sand on the curves. Best ridden late May through end of September.


            Starting in JAMESTOWN, CA-108 East, go .2 miles,
            Quick turn left on Rawhide Rd, go 4 miles
            Turn left at CA-49, go 10 miles
            Turn right at CA-4, go 76 miles
            Turn right at CA-89, go 19 miles
            Turn right on US-395 South, go 27 miles
            Turn right on CA-108 West, go 76 miles
            Arrive at the center of JAMESTOWN, CA.



            This ride brought to you by:

            Frog's Tooth Vineyard Makes a Sweet Sweep at Fair

            Copperopolis's own Frog's Tooth Vineyards won an impressive amount of medals at this year's Calaveras County Fair and Frog Jumping Jubilee. Entering eight of their wines, this fledgling winery walked away with a medal for each wine entered.

            Frog's Tooth Vineyards winning wines:
            '09 Fume Blanc   Silver
            '08 Grenache   Silver
            '08 Meritage   Bronze
            '08 Malbec   Silver
            Tawny Toad   GOLD
            '08 Tempranillo GOLD
             '08 Cabernet  Sauvignon   Silver
            '10 Torrontes   Bronze


            If you would like to sample some of their award winning wines their tasting room, located in Murphys, is open M-T 11:00 to 5 ish, F 1:00 to 6 ish, Sat & Sun 11-6 ish or you can send a hint Randy Bresee's way, owner of Snaps Coffee House and Wine Bar, that he might like to host this award winning vineyard once more this season for a wine tasting 'flight night.'



            Frog's Tooth Vineyard- their story
            Once upon a time, not so long ago, in a valley known more for cattle ranching than vineyards our story begins. 
            It was the Winter of 1999 when Frog's Tooth Vineyards began its life as a tadpole with the purchase of 67 acres of land in the Salt Springs Valley of Calaveras County.
            It slowly grew through infancy until the Spring of 2003 when it began its transition to adolecence with the planting of approximately 10 acres of premium wine grapes.
            Frog's Tooth Vineyards entered young froghood in 2005 when we crushed fruit for what would become our first vintage wine.
            Our transition continued with the opening of our Tasting Room in Murphys, California in the Fall of 2007 followed by the completion of our winery building at the end of 2008.   — and the frog's tale continues...now, in 2010 we are making additional "leaps" by expanding our downtown Murphys tasting room and equipping our winery building with all the tools necessary to implement our first crush at our own site in the fall of this year.
             


            For more information about Frog's Tooth and their wines click HERE

            Supreme Court Decision anticipated to affect Calaveras County

            With the Supreme Court upholding a lower court’s decision that California must reduce its prison population the Calaveras County Jail could find itself housing approximately 78 inmates that are currently incarcerated in California Prisons. The inmates targeted for housing in county jails are labeled as low-level offenders and will be serving a limited sentence within the County jail.
            Sheriff Kuntz expects a 100% recidivism rate within that population of 78 inmates once released.

            According to a retired law enforcement officer, there are four ways in which a low level inmate when released into society will react:

            Governor Brown Statment on Supreme Court ruling "California must reduce its prison population"

            Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. today issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Brown v. Plata:

            “The Supreme Court has upheld a lower court’s decision that California must reduce its prison population. In its ruling, the Supreme Court recognized that the enactment of AB 109 is key to meeting this obligation. We must now secure full and constitutionally guaranteed funding to put into effect all the realignment provisions contained in AB 109. As we work to carry out the Court’s ruling, I will take all steps necessary to protect public safety.”

            Tuesday, May 24, 2011

            Metate Vineyard's' wows' at Snaps Flight Night

            When Michael Stange began the first pour on 'Friday Night Flights' at Snaps Wine Bar on May 20, 2011, he patiently engaged each person in conversation steering them to ask the right questions, cleverly imparting his winemaking wisdom and passion along the way.
            Spending a large part of his youth as an exchange student in Spain gave Michael a strong love of Spanish influenced wines. "Wine was served with most meals" he explained. Embracing this tradition he absorbed not only the knowledge but the love of the wines and their regions. In the afternoons a young wine was served,  not unlike Metate Vineyard's Garnacha: a young red wine made from the same ancient Carinena grapes as the Rosado and blended with Garnacha for balance; a common style from the province of Catalunya. While the evenings the wines served were full, rich, such as the Metate Hills Temparanillo: a dark wine with fruit flavors of dried cherry with hints of leather and rose petal all wrapped in toasty oak. Aged for 20 months in American and French oak barrels.
            With each new flight poured and sampled there came more knowledge of the process of Spanish wine making and the close connection to family and tradition.

            Metate Hills Vineyards was awarded a Gold for their  '09 Albarino and a Silver for their '08 Graciano at the 2011 Calaveras County Fair and Frog Jumping Jubilee.
            For more information on Metate Hills Vineyards please visit their website at http://www.vinometate.com/

            For more pictures of the evening visit SNAPS new site

            Calaveras Sheriff's Office Low Cost Micro Chip Program

            Calaveras Sheriff’s Office, Animal Services Division,
            is implementing a Low Cost Micro Chip program.
            This program will offer micro chipping of pets (dog and/or cats) to
            pet owners for a fee of $15.00 (Micro chips provided by Avid Microchips).
            This fee includes the following benefits:
            - Your family pet can be micro chipped to assist Animal Services personnel
            in contacting you in the event your pet becomes lost and ends up at a
            shelter facility to more quickly reunite you with your pet.
            - The fee includes the life time registration of the micro chip number into Avid’s
            National data base.
            - Animal Services registers the micro chip number for you with Avid.
            Public hours for implantation:
            10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Tuesday through Friday
            9:00 am to 12:00 pm, Saturdays

            Office and Shelter
            Closed for lunch 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.




            Animal Services Division
            Phone: (209) 754-6509

            Rainbow Around the Sun - Sunday 5-22-11

            Picture taken in Angels Camp - Frog Jump

            Calling All Local Veterans

            Calling All Veterans
            The Action Committee to form a Copperopolis VFW would like to invite ALL local veterans to walk with them in the Copperopolis Homecoming Parade June 4, 2011 11:00 AM.
            Veterans will be led by flags representing each branch of the service along with military jeeps restored to their original glory. Come support your fellow veterans and receive the recognition and thanks you so deserve.
            If you would like to join us please call Bill at 785-2767 or email coppervfw@gmail.com for more information.

            Carson Atkinson's Lamb Wins Supreme Champion

            Carson Atkinson's lamb won his "Poppy's Memorial Buckle" at the 2011 Calaveras County Fair and Frog Jumping Jubilee. His lamb won Champion 4-H Market Lamb and then went into Champion Drive and WON OVERALL Supreme Champion Market Lamb!!!

            Congratulations Carson!!!

            Murphys Creek Theater offers the "Mirror Project" - a summer acting conservancy for young people-

            The Murphys Creek Theatre's annual “Mirror Project” is a summer acting conservatory for young people, held at the in the beautiful amphitheatre at Albeno Munari Vineyard and Winery (formerly Stevenot), in Murphys. Admittance into the conservatory is by audition only.

            The Mirror Project is an intensive Shakespearean training and performance experience for students ages 9-16. Core classes include Acting, Shakespeare, Voice and Movement, and Audition Techniques, with additional specialty classes offered in Stage Combat, Dance, Acting with Masks, Acting for the Camera, and Technical Theatre. Classes are taught by company actors performing in MCT’s summer repertory productions and by various guest artists, giving students an opportunity to work closely with a variety of professional theatre artists. The final product of the conservatory will be a full-length public student production by William Shakespeare, at the Albeno Munari Vineyard and Winery.

            The Mirror Project runs weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., throughout July, with some weekend rehearsals as well as two public evening performances.

            The cost for the Mirror Project is $400. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. All students must have some previous acting experience. Participation in a group audition is required; pre-registration for the audition is mandatory.

            For more information or to register for the audition, contact Murphys Creek Theatre at (209) 728-8422 or email education@murphyscreektheatre.org.

            Copper Holdings Company coming to the Sports Pub

            On May 28, 2011 the Sports Pub in Copperopolis will be hosting the Copper Holdings Company Band for a night of live classic rock and blues. 8 PM to midnight!

            For more info on the Copper Holdings Company click HERE

            District 5 Supervisor Spellman takes Center Stage at Frog Jump

            Having never 'jumped' a frog before, Spellman used youtube for instruction and guidance. It seemed to help, as he won the Government Center Frog Jump with an 9' 2" qualifying jump. This win automatically entered him into the World Championship Frog Jump Competition on Sunday at the Calaveras County Fair and Frog Jumping Jubilee, where teams from as far away as Oregon came to compete in this highly competitive sport. Icon Lee Giudici, the record holder since 1986 with a jump of 21' 5 3/4 " from frog Rosie the Ribiter, was on hand to watch the event.
            Though Spellman thought he could come armed with a tree frog he had painstakingly caught at his home, he was told his frog needed to be at least 4" in length.
            Enjoying the sun and the fun at the fair, Spellman was a good sport and threw his all into 'jumping' his loaner frog.


            Lee Giudici