Help Save a Life--Report a Drunk Driver

   If you see a drunk driver on the road tonight (or any time), you could be saving someone's life by calling 911 to report it.

    The life you save could be your own child! Call in remembrance of Sheldon Bissell, who lost a child to a drunk driver.

McClintocks Staffer trying to raise money

  Is the man from Russia now running for McClintocks Congressional seat? Is he having a hard time raising money? We told you someone from the Tea Potty would challenge him.

   Since this is the Tea Potty branch of the R'publins, not many want to get mixed up with them. And McClintock needs all the money he can get. Come on tea pottiers, donate to McClintocks buddy. Throw your money away.

Fire on Mt. Hamilton

   A fire on Mt. Hamilton in Santa Clara County is 40 acres and is 10% contained. The fire was first reported around 5:30 AM December 31, 2013.

Throw the Bums Out movement

  Nationwide it seems that the anti-incumbent movement has grabbed hold. After the government shut-down, lack of getting anything done in Washington and general disapproval with many elected
officials, many may not be going back to their cushy jobs in 2015.

   Tea Party Republicans are especially vulnerable in this coming election cycle as their poll numbers continue to drop.

Netflix CEO gets big raise

   Netflix has been growing and the board decided the CEO needed a little raise.  He got a 50% raise starting tomorrow.

   Instead of two million dollars a year, he will get three million a year.  Netflix stock has quadrupled in the past two years.

Traffic Accident in Plymouth

   At 10:02 AM on December 31, 2013 a traffic accident was reported at Latrobe and Old Sacramento Road in Plymouth.

  An ambulance, a tow truck and 2 CHP units are at the scene.

Press Release: Calaveras Sheriff arrests parolee

    According to a press release received late December 30, 2013, at approximately 9:50 PM on December 29, 2013 sheriff's deputies were dispatched to the Mark Twain Hospital parking

Sheriff's Department doing CHP's job?

   What is going on at the Calaveras Sheriff's Department?  In the past year or so, we have heard so many complaints

Traffic Accident in Arnold

   On Sunday, December 29, 2013 at around 1:30 PM Justin Bristow (42) of Dorrington was driving his 2003 Honda Shadow motorcycle west on Hwy 4 at a stated speed of 40 MPH.

Tuolumne County considers Marijuana Ordinance

   At the January 15, 2013 Tuolumne County Planning Commission the county's Medical Marijuana Ordinance will be considered.

  

Biblical literalist or Darwin evolutionist?

   Pew Research recently did a study asking Americans whether they thought that humans evolved or were created in their current form.

Anti-Climate Change brings in big money

   Extremist conservatives billionaires apparently are secretly funding studies to debunk the climate change scientists.

   Recently it was exposed that over $1 billion has been spent trying to get scientific researchers to say that climate change is NOT caused by humans and industrial pollution.

No reunion show for Home Improvement?

  Home Improvement, one of the top-rated sitcoms of the 90's will apparently never be able to have a reunion, according to some sources.

   Although it has been talked about, the loss of the next door neighbor, Wilson, played by Earl Hindman, who died 10 years ago.

Angels Camp woman arrested in Murphys

   On December 28, 2013, Calaveras County Sheriff's deputies arrested Stacy Fonta Quashnick (33) of Angels Camp on Big Trees Rd in Murphys for alleged Possession of a Controlled Substance,

Arrest at Bank of Stockton in Angels Camp

  December 28, 2013:  Angels Camp Police  arrested Michael Dion Green, of Honolulu at the Bank of Stockton in Angels Camp around 8 PM for alleged Possession of a Controlled Substance,

Drug Arrest in Avery

   On December 27, 2013  Calaveras Sheriff deputies arrested Steven Dwayne Almer (47) of Avery at the Tanwood Mobile Home Park, for alleged Possession of a Controlled Substance, Violation of Probation with an outstanding warrant, both felonies and for alleged Possession of Illegal Paraphernalia, a misdemeanor.

   Almer was booked into the Calaveras County Jail and released due to a lack of space.

Tea Party Republican Ted Cruz to renounce Canadian Citizenship

   "Birthers" of the Tea Party, who hate the President have accused him of being a native of Africa, among other racist things.

Vehicle hits gas can on Hwy 88

   December 30, 2013:   At around 8:47 AM it was reported that a white Subaru hit a 5 gallon gas can that was in the middle of the lane on Hwy 88 at Buena Vista in Ione.

     CHP and the Fire Department are en route to the scene, where gasoline is leaking onto the roadway.

End of the Year Math

Traffic Collision in Valley Springs

   December 30, 2013:  Shortly after 8 AM a traffic collision was reported to CHP that had occurred at Hwy 26 and Vista Del Lago in Valley Springs.

   No injuries were reported. A tow truck is en route to the scene.

Duck Dynasty star turns McClintock down?

   Today we heard that Phil Robertson of Duck Dynasty, has turned down Rep. McClintocks offer to be VP on his Presidential ticket in '16. Robertson apparently thinks McClintock is a RINO!

   We have been told a rumor that Darren Spellman of Rancho Calaveras wants to run against McClintock in '14, however.  He also thinks McClintock is too moderate.

Motorcycle Accident in Arnold

  UPDATE:  At 2:45 PM CHP indicates Hwy 4 is now clear.

   UPDATE:  At 2:08 PM a tow truck was called for a fully dressed motorcycle.

Op-Ed.....End of 2013 Report on "Neighbors from Hell"

  PROTECT YOURSELVES and YOUR PROPERTY!!  Our Sheriff is at the Beauty Parlor!!

    We've heard from so many of our readers and others during this past couple of years,

What is wrong with some people?

Who could be so sick and cruel to just put a puppy in a bag and throw it in the trash?

The Tea Party McClintock Train Wreck

   After losing his battle to defund the Affordable Care Act, causing a shut down of our government and stating publicly that he is only for the Tea Party wackos, Congressman McClintock is

Breaking News: Big Lottery Winner in Calaveras County

    It was just reported that a $4.4 million dollar lottery ticket was that was sold at Treat's Store in San Andreas has not yet been claimed.

     The store gets $40,000. The winner gets six months to claim their winnings.

Burglary in Arnold

  On December 26, 2013 a burglary on Shannon Way in Arnold was reported to the Calaveras Sheriff.

   A report was taken by the Sheriff but there is no indication of whether there is a suspect.

"Something on my rooftop" to Sheriff

   On December 26, 2013 a caller on Michel Road in Mountain Ranch notified the Sheriff that they could hear something up on their rooftop.

   Since in was the day after Christmas, they assumed it was not Santa. No  report was taken by the Sheriff.

Arrest for Public Intoxication at dentist office

   After a call to the Sheriff on December 26, 2013 one person was arrested for allegedly Public Intoxication at Dr. Motiu's dentist office on St. Charles Street in San Andreas.

   Some probably think its a good idea to have a sip or two before going to the dentist.

"We're gonna need a bigger ship!"

   The ice-breaker ship that was sent to rescue a scientific expedition that was stuck in 10' of ice in Antartica got stuck themselves.

   Reportedly, they radioed that they would need a bigger ice-breaking ship as they could not go any further.

Hit and Run near Ironstone Winery

   UPDATE at 7:05 AM:   CHP tried to locate the driver of the pickup, calling the hospital. Then they reached the father who said he would call when he locates his son, the apparent driver

Op-Ed....So who are the two "bully" Calaveras Supervisors?

   Recently we were told that Darren Spellman, one of the Calaveras Supervisors was throwing the word "bully" around, as if it pertained to others. He also mentioned that he knew what went on in closed sessions of another elected board. Huh?

New Years Resolution?

 
Only three days til 2014. Do you have any New Years Resolutions to share, especially about this coming election year?

Did you get a Christmas gift from Rep Tom McClintock?



Holy Cow...I mean McClintock!!!

   Don't be surprised if you didn't, but many donors did receive nice gifts. Some were purchased
through the Congressional gift shop with emblems on them; ornaments and other items have the official seal on them.

   Tom McClintock (R) Elk Grove, spent $6779 at the gift shop in 2011 and staffers spent $3750 on gifts for supporters in 2012, according to Roll Call.  He isn't using his own money, however. This is donor campaign money; therefore you are buying your own gift if you donated enough.

Family of brain-dead 13 year old wants her moved

   The Oakland family who's 13 year old daughter died after complications from a tonsillectomy at Oakland Children's Hospital, wants her moved to another facility before making a decision of removing life-support.

   It is likely that the family will sue the hospital, and they have sought other opinions since she was declared brain dead two weeks ago.

Shotgun Shooting in Louisiana

This is a mugshot of Ben Freean
from a prior arrest.

  On Thursday, December 27, 2013, Ben Freeman, a Louisiana resident, according to authorities, allegedly
took his shotgun and shot his ex-inlaws and a daughter, his past employer and his wife, his current wife and then killed himself alongside the highway.

  The man had been fired by his employer after working at a hospital. Four of those shot are dead. The rest are in the hospital. He was also in a custody and divorce situation.

40 Pythons taken from Motel Room

   A couple had 40 pythons in plastic bins in their motel room in Canada, according to authorities, who called the SPCA to rescue them.  They are not legal in that area.

  Just last week two boys were strangled in their beds after their 13 foot python escaped its enclosure in eastern Canada.

Loose Horse on Parrotts Ferry Road

   December 28, 2013 at 8:27 AM:  A loose horse was just reported on Parrotts Ferry Road and Main Street in Vallecito.
  
   CHP is en route. Use caution if driving in that direction.

Christmas Day traffic Accident

   According to CHP around 6:25 PM on Christmas Day, December 25, 2013  Robert J. Beck (66) of San Andreas was driving his Mercedes C280 north or Jenny LInd Rd just south of Hwy 26.

Op-Ed....Who is hurt by "Duckie" talk?

  The millionaire, who claims to be a backwoods Bible-thumper, according to his fans, hurts no one.

    Really? Well, now that's not quite true.  When people come out and talk like that publicly, it hurts many and could hurt some physically.

Brown's water tunnels to LA more than double

      New documents just made available show that the $25 billion advertised by Governor Brown as the cost of the water tunnels to LA is actually going to be double that.

   Apparently financing costs along will cause the cost to be at least double $50 billion. The cost in loss of water for Northern California is even more than that.

Senator Ted Gaines leaving District

Lots of Carpetbaggers

   California State Senator Ted Gaines is leaving the district to live in his longtime home in Roseville.

   This raises speculation that he may challenge US Congressman McClintock in 2014 for a seat in the House of Representatives. McClintock doesn't live in the District he supposedly represents.

Calaveras residents losing unemployment..Welfare next?

   According to the Democrats Ways and Means Committee in Sacramento, 259 residents of Calaveras County will lose their unemployment insurance on December 28, 2013.

     In Amador County, 200 lose their benefits because they run out and in Tuolumne County 313 residents will lose their unemployment benefits. Will they go looking for jobs or just go on welfare?

Tea Potty membership Dwindles...

I'm a doggie teapot, short and stout
Tip me over, see what comes out,
 Lots of poop, whenever I bend,
Oops, that's out of the other end!

   Here it is, time for the 2014 election cycle to begin; and where are the foolhardy and kooky tea pottiers?

   We hear that normal people do not want to be associated with the miniscule number of actual tea potty left, especially in Calaveras County.

   If you are a member of the tea potty
and are proud of it, let us know and we will put your name here is large print. We don't expect to hear from many.

49ers in Arizona on Sunday

 The 49ers travel to Arizona to play the Cardinals on Sunday, December 29, 2013.

   The game is at 1:25 PM on FOX.
 

Rep. McClintock sells us out???

We will never forget what a
careless hunter did to our forest!!!

   In an LA Times editorial yesterday, a few facts we already knew about the Rim Fire and Tom McClintock were reinforced:

  "Making the Rim Fire Worse"

Yusef Lateef passed away

   If you say you don't recognize that name, he was a world famous jazz saxophone and flute player, having won many major awards, including a Grammy.

   He played with Miles Davis and Dizzy Gillespie and had last performed in Paris last June. He was 93 and died at his home in Massachusetts.

21-year old Justin Bieber says he's retiring

  Now don't laugh, but the young rock star Justin Bieber really did tweet to his fans that he is retiring from the business.

UPS and FedEx get bad press? With US Postal Service its business as usual!

   It's hard to believe how much bad press UPS and FedEx are getting this morning after a big storm and larger than usual online shoppers on the final days affected their deliveries.

   Since this is most common for the US Postal Service, no one even mentions it anymore.  I think our family will stay with UPS and FedEx. At least they care!

Good News! New Unemployment Claims Drop!

   But not in Calaveras County! Yes, apparently the number of Americans who needed to file new claims for unemployment benefits dropped last week.

   Decreasing 42,000 with the total seasonally adjusted to 338,000 is good news for the economy. Until we get  better elected officials, nothing will change in Calaveras County, however!

To those of you who don't like "immigrants"

     We are certain that the people who speak continually badly about immigrants to the US, would never play or listen to "White Christmas", the iconic American holiday song.

   Written by a Jewish man born in Russia, his family came to the US when he was 5 years old. Yes, Irving Berlin was an immigrant, and aren't the rest of us glad for their blessing upon this country.

Vehicle Overturned in Ditch on Hwy 12

   December 24, 2013:  At 9:42 AM a vehicle was reported overturned off Hwy 12 into a ditch near Lodi.

   CHP and an ambulance are en route to the scene. Someone in reportedly pinned in the vehicle.

CHP Warns of DUI Enforcement

   CHP is letting everyone know that they will be out in force over the holidays, and are warning drivers not to drive while under the influence...of anything!

   They will be out in force and you don't want yours or your family's holiday ruined because you are arrested or have an accident due to driving while under the influence.  Be careful and if you must be under the influence of anything, stay at home!

Water shut-off in Avery area

  Per CCWD, on Friday, December 27, 2013 from 7 AM to 3 PM the water in the Avery area will be turned off for maintenance work.

   Water will be off on Avery-Sheep Ranch Road, Blue Bird Lane, Bird Dog Circle, Grey Mare Way, Roan, Sorrel and the businesses around the Avery Post Office.

   CCWD regrets the inconvenience. You may call 754-3304 with any questions.

  

Traffic Accident on Hwy 4 in Avery

  On December 22, 2013 around 10 PM Nathaniel Heller (18) of Arnold was driving a 1999 Dodge Durango eastbound on Hwy 4 east of Hunter Dam Road at a stated speed of 25 MPH.

   Heller related he heard a noise

Merry Christmas Calaveras Ranchers--From the Williamson Welfare Act!!!

   During the last Calaveras Board of Supervisors meeting, there were three items on the agenda for renewing ranchers properties in the Williamson Act.

   Since the Williamson Act has not been funded by the state of California for 4 years, it means that

McClintock and Robertson for President!

McClintock doesn't
live in this District anyway!
He's lucky! He lives in
Ami Bera's District!!

   We hear the Tea Party cheering!!  It seems that our Congressional Representative Tom McClintock has high hopes and dreams in the Presidential arena; kind of like Darren Spellman.

   Some conservative websites have been hinting that he is raising money

Angels Camp Police Department busy over weekend--Don't drink and drive!!

    Angels Camp Police Department arrested at least 5 people for alleged misdemeanor DUI's in a 24 hour period during the December 21-22, 2013 weekend. Most were cited and released.

   They also arrested Shawn Patrick Willey (26) of Arnold for alleged felony Possession of a Narcotic Substance and misdemeanor DUI and being under the influence of a controlled substance. Willey was released prior to trial due to lack of space at the Calaveras County Jail.

George Radanovich running for McClintocks seat?

   With all the rumors floating about, one interesting possibility out there is that George Radanovich, a very popular Congressman who left office to care for his ailing wife, might come into the race against McClintock.

  His wife has since passed away and his children are older now. At least Radanovich lives in our dstrict. We'll contact him and let you know.

Merry Christmas from the White House

Merry Christmas from Bo at the White House.

Fire in Sonora

   CalFire reports that on December 22, 2013 around 8 PM they responded to a report of a fire in the 20500 block  of Deerfield Drive in Sonora.

    A fire started due to fireplace ashes being dumped into a debris pile. Only a spot of vegetation was burned before CalFire engines from Jamestown and Sonora arrived and extinguished it.

   

Loose Cow on Carbondale and MIchigan Bar

   December 23, 2013:  At 8:07 AM a loose cow was reported to CHP at Carbondale Rd and Michigan Bar in Amador County.

   CHP is en route to the area. Use caution if driving near that intersection.

Everyone knows...kitties love the Christmas tree

Adorable. Thanks Sue

Grey car into ditch in Valley Springs

   December 22, 2013:  At around 1PM a small grey car reported ran off the road and into a ditch at Hwy 26 and Quail Oaks Road in Valley Springs.

   CHP is now at the scene.  No other vehicles were involved and no injuries were reported.

So this is the highway to the moon?

WOW!

Traffic Accident in Clements

   December 22, 2013:   At 12:37 PM CHP reports an accident occurred on Hwy 12 at 6 th street in Clements, in front of the Mexican restaurant.

  No injuries were reported in this crash between a blue pickup and a tan pickup. CHP is en route to the scene.

And a new rose is born......

This newly developed hybrid rose is called the Tiger Rose. Just in
time for Christmas, it could have been the Candy Cane

Complaints to Calaveras Sheriff from Valley Springs area

   Citizen complaints on December 21, 2013:

   A complaint about ongoing issues with the neighbors was reported at Hillvale and Burson Drive in Burson. The Sheriff took no report.

   Public intoxication was reported at

Here's a nice fat grey squirrel.....

Complaints to Calaveras Sheriff from Ebbetts Pass

   On December 21, 2013 these calls were made to the Calaveras Sheriff:

    A theft was reported on Inspiration Point in Hathaway Pines. The Sheriff took no report.

    A burglary was reported on Julia Lane in Arnold. A report was taken.

    Another burglary was reported on Julia Lane in Arnold. No report was taken.

    A disturbance was reported on Hwy 4 in Arnold. A report was taken.

   Illegal firearms discharge was reported on Hwy 4 in Arnold. The Sheriff took no report.

Letter to the Editor.....Merry Christmas

   Dear Sentinel:

   My wife and I want to wish all of the other readers of the Sentinel a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

   And also to the best political website Calaveras County ever had. Thank you for a very entertaining and inciteful year.

     B and M in Valley Springs

Atlanta at San Francisco

   The Atlanta Falcons face the 49ers on Monday night at 5:30 PM. The game is at Candlestick Park in San Francisco.

   Go Niners!

Audubon Bird of the Year

The burrowing owl

Two more Colorado teens arrested

   Two high school boys in Colorado were arrested after authorities found out they were allegedly planning similar attacks to the one two weeks ago at their school.

Double lung transplant patient healthy

  Months after a life-saving double lung transplant, Sara, a Pennsylvania girl grows healthier and stronger everyday, and wants a Furby Boom for Christmas.

   Her case changed organ donation rules in the US.

What a beautiful wreath!

Thank you, Dave! It's gorgeous!

Ebbetts Pass reports to Calaveras Sheriff's Office

  Reports to Calaveras Sheriff on December 20 2013:

   A suspicious person was reported at Tanwood Mobile Home Park in Avery and an arrest was made.

   An arrest was made

Valley Springs reports to Calaveras Sheriff's Office

   On December 20, 2013 these complaints were called into the Calaveras Sheriff's Office:

   Someone in a silver Nissan Altima is going through mailboxes

December 21, 2013 First Day of Winter

Beware!! You may be about to be "grinched"

   This is actually the time of year that many people dread. The "family" coming to visit, bag and
baggage, attitude and all.

   It may be a family member who drinks too much,

Christmas in London?

Have you heard about California becoming 6 states?

   A man named Tim Draper, who is an investor, has decided to promote breaking California up into 6 states. Calaveras County would be in the state of Central California under the proposal.

   Draper and his supporters feel that the people who live in the top half of California are not fairly represented.  He's trying to get 3 more Republican governors and other representatives. This could mean he will be trying to get signatures to put it on the ballot.

Goodbye John Oliver!!

   On the "Daily Show" last night, Jon Stewart threw out the usual skit in order to pay tribute and say goodbye to John Oliver, who has been a regular comedic correspondent for over 7 years.

   The tribute brought tears to Oliver's eyes.  Oliver now will have his own current events show on HBO.

Horse on Main Street in Angels Camp

   December 20, 2013:  About 3 AM today the Sheriff's Office received a call that a black and white horse was on Main Street in Angels Camp near the Chevron Station.

  No indication is given if they located and returned the horse to its owner. Guess the person who was to give him a ride from the bar showed up.

Santa's getting ready....

Tony Zamora of Burson

  
Tony J. Zamora II of Burson passed away on December 19, 2013 at Lodi Memorial Hospital. He was 72.

   A native of Littlefield, Texas, he was born on February 9, 1941, and was a general construction

Duck Dynasty? Why?

  After hearing that the old man in "Duck Dynasty" was suspended for improper remarks about gays, they announced the 17 million people watch that show every week. Who and why?

 

Pew Research Poll on Christmas

 
There has been a lot of talk about Christmas or Holidays or whatever, but the Pew Research Poll decided to take it a step further.

   When they polled Americans, they learned that 90% of us celebrate Christmas, but that only HALF say it's mostly a religious holiday.

Zane Peterson, former fire-fighter accused of alleged arson and murder

   The deadly Clover Fire in Shasta County, that destroyed dozens of homes in early September was allegedly started intentionally by former firefighter Zane Peterson.

   Peterson was arrested at his parents home in Happy Valley on suspicion of alleged arson and murder in the case.

New Unemployment claims grows

  December 19, 2013:  The number of Americans filing new claims for unemployment benefits rose last week to the highest level in nearly nine months, casting a shadow on the labor market.

  It was up 10,000 to 379,000 after being expected to fall.

Methodist Church not so accepting after all....

   In Pennsylvania a United Methodist pastor officiated at his son's gay wedding in Massachusetts.

   The Rev. Frank Schaefer of Lebanon was officially de-frocked him as a result. Many had believed the Methodist Church was less judgmental and more accepting of others than it apparently is.

What is a "Guided Mistletoe Drone?"

   It seems that two artists in San Francisco created a drone with mistletoe hanging from it and fly it
over unsuspecting couples in downtown San Francisco.

   It brings a lot of laughs and good spirit, not to mention a little love to the holiday season.

Debra Lynn Gilchrist of Campo Seco

   On December 15, 2013 Debra Lynn Gilchrist of Campo Seco passed away at Mark Twain St. Joseph's Hospital in San Andreas.  She was 53.

     She was born on March 23, 1960

InFocus Photography Competition and Exhibition

  The 27th Annual InFocus Photography Competition and Exhibition will be held at 193 So. Washington Street in Sonora from January 17, 2014 to February 15, 2014.

   Entry forms can be downloaded at TuolumneCountyArts.org.

Angels Camp Police Arrest Alleged Sexual Assault Suspect

 
According to Angels Camp Police, on December 17, 2013 the Angels Camp Police Department was contacted regarding the sexual assault of a juvenile victim.

   It was reported that the juvenile victim had been sexually assaulted by an acquaintance

They should be baking cookies....

   but instead created disturbances reported in Calaveras County December 18, 2013

   A landlord tenant disturbance was reported on Prussian Hill Road in Railroad Flat; a verbal dispute over a dog

Suspicious person on Murphys Grade Road

   A man was reported to the Sheriff's Office as suspicious because he was sitting on the side of the road slumped over on the Murphys Grade Road near French Gulch in Angels Camp.

   The description was wearing denim long-sleeved shirt, dark jeans and dirty wavy hair.  One person thought it was Cowboy Tryone, but he doesn't have much hair left. No report was taken.

911 call because store closed?

   The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office received a complaint that a business on Mountain Ranch Rd in San Andreas was closed.

   The caller said the sign posted on their door had hours later than when customer arrived. Not sure what law they broke, but this is like the people calling 911 when something is left out of their McDonalds order.

Arrest for Lewd Act with Child in San Andreas

   According to the report, Angels Camp Police arrested Jason David Anthony Roberts (21) of San Andreas on December 18, 2013 around 7 PM for alleged Oral Copulation with a Child under 10,  Sexual Penetration with Force or Fear and Lewd or Lascivious Acts with a Child, all felonies.

   Roberts was booked into the Calaveras County Jail.

Angels Camp Police arrest Stockton man

  On December 18, 2013 around 2 AM, Angels Camp Police arrested Christopher Lynn Jachalke (37) of Stockton for alleged Possession of a Controlled Substance, a felony, for Driving with a Suspended LIcense, Violating a Court Order and Providing False ID to Officers, all misdemeanors.

   Jachalke was booked into the Calaveras County Jail.

Chains required at Camp Connell

   Weather UPDATE:  At 9:25 AM on December 19, 2013 it began raining in Angels Camp.

    December 19, 2013:   CHP has issued a chains required on all vehicles without 4 wheel drive and snow tires on all 4 wheels at Camp Connell on Hwy 4.

   Chains are required on Hwy 88 at Silver Lake and on Hwy 108 7 miles east of Long Barn.

Elaine J. Jorn (Miladinovich) of Angels Camp

 
  Elaine J. Jorn of Angels Camp went to be with the Lord on December 15, 2013. Ms. Jorn was born June 2, 1923 in Angels Camp and was 90 years old.

   Ms. Jorn was employed as a corporate secretary for 41 years by the Calaveras Cement Plant in San Andreas until its closing in 1983.

Shooting in Reno Hospital not random

  UPDATE on December 19, 2013:  It was released this morning that the shooter at the Reno Hospital was a 51 year old man from Lake Almanor.

   Two are dead and two are in critical condition after yet another shooting at a public place. The Reno Hospital where it happened is in shock.

   It is believed that this was not a random act, but do not yet have a reason for the shooting. The shooter committed suicide. There seems to be no end to the shooting rampages around the country.

100 years ago....

   Yes, in 1913, in December, Henry Ford introduced the auto assembly line and the New York World Newspaper introduced the first Crossword Puzzle.

   And the rest is history.

It was like he won the lottery himself....

   The owner of a small gift shop in San Jose is absolutely thrilled that one of the two winning MegaMillions jackpot had purchased the ticket in his store.  Why?

   Because he gets a million just for selling the ticket. Not bad. the other ticket was purchased in Georgia, so two will split the $646 million jackpot.

Tessanne Chin wins "The Voice"

   Tessanne Chin, of Jamaica, won the top prize in "The Voice" last night. Some were disappointed that 16 year old Jacquie Lee didn't win, but Chin has a great voice.

   Chin was Adam Levine's singer during the weeks leading up to the decision.

"I work for the CIA" was a lie!

  John Beale, who was the EPA's highest-paid employee and a leading expert on climate change since 2000, was sentence to 32 months in federal prison this morning.

   He had lied to his bosses, telling them he was a CIA spy

Sheldon Bissell of Mountain Ranch

   Mr. Sheldon Bissell of Mountain Ranch passed away due to a tragic auto accident in Mountain
Ranch on December 16, 2013. He was 77.

   A native of Southern California, he was born on March 19, 1936, but had lived in Mountain Ranch

Snowden a "patriot"?

   The ACLU says that Edward Snowden is a great American who deserves full immunity for his patriotic acts (as whistleblower).

   Proud to serve as Snowden's legal advisors, the ACLU says that when Snowden blew the whistle

Winter Sky in Calaveras

Photo by B

Valley Springs Couple Arrested

   On December 17, 2013 Joseph Allen Mazzanti (30) and April Ann Mazzanti (24) of Valley Springs were arrested at their home on Hartvickson Lane by Calaveras County Sheriff's Deputies.

From the White House about Healthcare

   Since October 1, 2013 more than 1.2 million Americans are poised to gain coverage under Obamacare -- and more are picking plans every day.

   Now, the deadline is coming up to get coverage from the Marketplace in time for the new year. You have until December 23, 2013 to select a plan in order for your health insurance to start by January 1, 2014.  Go to Healthcare.gov to sign up.

  

Valley Springs Woman Arrested

  On December 16, 2013 Gianna Sustello (56) of Valley Springs, was booked into the Calaveras County Jail by Calaveras Sheriff's Deputies.

     The allegations are Burglary and Non-Sufficient Funds/Checking, both felonies.

Pfeiffer Fire at Big Sur

   December 18, 2013 UPDATE:  The Pfeiffer Fire at Big Sur is now 769 acres and 20% contained. They hope to have it fully contained by Friday night.

Ovations opens at Bret Harte Theater

  The first in the Calaveras Arts Ovations 2014 Performing Arts Series is Michela Macfarlane and Cantamos who will be coming to the Bret Harte Performing Arts Center on Sunday January 12, 2014 at 3 PM.

   Tickets are $25 for adults and under 18 are $10. Go online to www.calaverasarts.org or call 754-1774 for reservations.

Mildred Jane Moran

   Mildred Jane Moran was born in Stockton to William and Ollie Harper on March 27, 1930 and passed peacefully on the evening of December 12, 2013 after a long courageous battle with Parkinson's disease and a brief illness.

Traffic Hazard at Hwy 26 and Hwy 49

   December 17, 2013 at 11:30 AM:  A grey BMW is reportedly blocking a lane at Hwy 26 and Hwy 49 in San Andreas. Two other vehicles are directing traffic.

   CHP is en route to the scene. Use caution if headed to that area.

Do you use anti-bacterial soap

   The USDA is now requiring soap manufacturers to prove that antibacterial cleaners are safe and effective in preventing illness.  There is much evidence that suggests the opposite is true.

US considering horse meat for tables?

  It's hard to believe if you now have or have ever had a horse for a companion, that you could eat it. The government is considering allowing this to happen, however, even as 21 were arrested in France for using horse meat illegally.

Congressman McClintock is so "out of touch" with America

   It seems that Representative Tom McClintock has no clue how Americans feel, either about the sequester or the shut-down he caused. He doesn't even see the light on helping people get healthcare. He is nearly alone now as the "Tea Party of NO."

  He is so locked up with only the extremists in the Tea Party, that he has so lost touch with the average working American.  He needs to be replaced. What a waste of a Congressional seat and poor representative of Calaveras County.

Can you win the $586 million mega lottery?

   Sure you can! Just buy 259 million lottery tickets and your odds aren't too bad. Why do so many feel they can beat the odds and stand in line to buy tickets.

   We've been told that the poor, instead of going back to school or investing their money in something worthwhile, or even working harder, throw their money at a lottery, gambling it away. They cannot resist the possibility of getting rich overnight. Very sad.

Believe it or not....

   In Jacksonville, Florida there is a high school named for a leader of the KKK, believe it or not. Now there is a petition to change the name to someone respectable.

   When we think of the leading racist in Calaveras County, who even threatened the President publicly,it makes us nauseous to think that anything but a filthy toilet could be named after him. It's about time, Florida!

Helicopter crash kills 6 in Afghanistan

   It appears that 6 US servicemen were killed when a Black Hawk helicopter they were riding in crashed in southern Afghanistan yesterday.

   The crash is under investigation.

Big Sur Fire Destroys 15 homes

   Among the 15 homes destroyed by the fire in Big Sur was the home of the volunteer Fire Chief. The fire has burned over 500 acres.

  It was reported that this is the driest year in California's recorded history, causing fires to be more easily spread.  It was reported that they believe an illegal campfire along a well-know trail may be the cause of this fire.

Edward Snowden offers to help Brazil

   In exchange for asylum, whistle blower Edward Snowden has offered to help Brazil investigate the US spy operations in their country.

  Snowden has often expressed a desire to live in South America, so we'll see what happens.

Pope Francis throws out Conservative in favor of Moderate?

    We probably should be surprised, but Pope Francis is following up his talk about preferring moderation instead of extremism, with action.

   He has replaced Archbishop Raymond Burke of Washington DC

Music for a Seal

"Friends of the Fair" Poker Tournament and Dinner Fundraiser

   The "Friends of the Fair" have announced that they are holding a Poker Tournament and Dinner fundraiser for the Calaveras Fairgrounds on February 22, 2014.

Calaveras Planning Director Brent Harrington Comments on Storage Facility denial

   We asked Brent Harrington, the interim Calaveras County Planning Director if he would like to comment on the Planning Commissions actions at their last meeting.

   His response was as follows:

Accident at Hwy 4 and Six Mile Road in Vallecito

   December 17, 2013:  A traffic accident was reported at 8:19 AM on Hwy 4 at Six Mile Road in Vallecito. CHP and an ambulance are en route to the scene.

     It isn't clear what other details are related to this incident. We will report when we hear.

CHP reports two airlifted in Calaveras County

     On December 16, 2013 at around 3:20 PM, CHP states that Marilyn L. Matthews (56) of Milton was driving a 1989 Dodge northbound on Milton Rd just south of Hwy 26 in Milton at an unsafe speed.

Vehicle teetering on Hwy 26 in West Point--Ice

   On December 17, 2013 a traffic accident occurred at Hwy 26 and Woodhouse Mine Rd in West Point.  No injuries were reported.

   It was reported at around 7:45 AM that a bluish sports vehicle was teetering on the edge of the roadway after sliding on a corner in the ice.  CHP is en route to the scene.

Sheldon Bissell killed in car crash

      Mountain Ranch resident and the creator of the DUI bounty program, died this morning in an automobile accident in Mountain Ranch.

   Mr. Bissell was famous for the years of work

Mommy--Wait for us!!!

Op-Ed....Calaveras Planning Commissioner Allured admits failure and incompetence?

   At the end of the public hearing on the recreational vehicle storage facility near Forest Meadows earlier this week, Calaveras County Planning Commissioner Ted Allured started talking, trying to say that they are really

Sad Day for Calaveras Planning Department--Corruption to a tee!

  This week the Calaveras Planning Commissioners, representing their 5 Supervisors for that district, met to decide what to do with the plans submitted for recreational vehicle storage near

New "Hobbit" movie wins at box office

   Over the weekend, "The Hobbit, Desolation of Smaug" took in $73 million as the top box office draw.

   "Frozen" moved down to #2.

Angels Camp man Arrested

   On December 14, 2013 Angels Camp Police arrested John David McBride (45) of Angels Camp, at Main Street and Dogtown Rd for allegedly Resisting an Executive Officer, a felony in addition to Resisting a Peace Officer, DUI alcohol or drugs, DUI over .08% and Reckless Driving, all misdemeanors.

   McBride was booked into the Calaveras County Jail.

Hwy 120 Accident

    December 16, 2013 at 6:45 AM:   According to CHP a traffic accident with injuries occurred on Hwy 120 near the airport. An ambulance and CHP are en route.

   According to the caller, it is a white vehicle which ran off the roadway.

49ers on Early today

   December 15, 2013:   Don't forget that the 49ers have the early game today. It's at 10 AM on FOX. Go Niners!

Loose Dog at Hwy 4 and Parrots Ferry Rd.

    December 15, 2013 at 9:35 AM:   CHP has received at report of a loose dog running on the roadway at Hwy 4 and Parrotts Ferry Road in Vallecito. Use caution in that area.

Congressman McClintock leaves Tea Party behind?

   Just like John Boehner, it does appear that Congressman McClintock has indeed left the Tea Party sitting on its dusty ear.

Injured dog on Copperopolis Rd

   December 14, 2013 at 12:10 PM:   CHP has received a report of an injured dog in the roadway at Copperopolis Road and Hewitt Road in Linden.

    A traffic unit is en route to the scene. Use extra caution if driving in that area.

Union Public Utility District Cancels December meeting

   The UPUD (Union Public Utility District) for water in Murphys has cancelled it's December meeting. The next meeting will be in January of 2014.

Is this posted in your Post Office?

This is the form that is hanging on the wall
in many post offices in Calaveras
County. They are going back to
the way it was in the 50's and that's
a good thing.

Another Colorado School Shooting

   Students at Arapaho High School say that the boy shooter who brought a gun to school and asked for a certain teacher by name and wounded a 15 year old girl, didn't have any obvious problems.

   Arapaho is only 8 miles from Columbine School in Colorado. The boy committed suicide at the scene.

Canada dumping Postal Services!

The Canadian Postal Service has been losing money, although not as much as the US Postal Service, but they seem to have come up with the solution.

   Canada is gradually doing away with all

Do you have the Christmas spirit yet?

Yes, he's smoking a pipe? Send your
cards this way. Don't waste your money
on postage! Merry Christmas
shopping, everyone!

Houston School District bans "Redskins"

One of the largest school districts in the nation voted to ban any reference to Native Americans as Redskins in their school mascot choices.

   Local Native American tribes had put pressure on the district to eliminate "racial" tones.

Prince Harry makes it through!

  Prince Harry and his veteran friends made it to the South Pole today, nearly two weeks after beginning their trek.

   Harry is the first Royal to ever touch the South Pole.

Tea Party losing its steam...and respect--What did McClintock do?

   While House leader John Boehner told the Tea Party groups in essence. "I'm mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore", but some just don't get it in the Republican Party.

Kansas suicide bomber?

   Authorities have reportedly arrested a man in Wichita, Kansas for trying to set off a suicide bomb at an airport.

   It seems that all the nuts are not in Calaveras County.

Bruce Jenner is doing what?

    Rumors are that Bruce Jenner is going to a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon to have his neck worked on. He apparently doesn't like his adams apple.

What would 007 really be like?

   Three doctors in the UK did a study of James Bond, going through all the original novels and found something unhealthy.

   Because he apparently drank at least 31 martinis a week (shaken, not stirred), he was most likely, they say, an impotent alcoholic.

Brown wants to drain wetlands

    In order for Governor Brown to gather enough water in the tunnels to send to his friends in Los Angeles, he will need to drain a large portion of the

December 13, 2013

...but watch your step!