Friday, May 29, 2015

Friday, May 29, 2015

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “The single greatest lesson the garden teaches is that our relationship to the planet need not be zero-sum, and that as long as the sun still shines and people still can plan and plant, think and do, we can, if we bother to try, find ways to provide for ourselves without diminishing the world. ”
- Michael Pollan, “The Omnivore’s Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals”

Updates have been made in all our departments...thanks for reading, Amador County!
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MEET LOCALS on TSPN's Amador Live! Sharing who's doing what and what's going on in Amador County. Simply click and watch!
https://www.youtube.com/user/TSPNTV

HAPPY 100TH ANNIVERSARY, AMADOR CITY!
http://www.amador-city.com/
Like and Share on Facebook!

Help Dahkota Brown and NERDS 2015 Summer School Courses!
- St. Sava Mission Youth Culture Camp - July 5-11 - Early Bird Registration ends May 30!
- Waste Tire Recycling Day - Sat May 30
Administrative Committee - Mon June 1
Technical Advisory Committee - Mon June 1
- Amador Flower Farm Daylily Days - June 13 & 14
"Read to the Rhythm" Amador County Concert Band - Mon June 22
California City News Update - Fri May 29
OBITUARY NOTICE: Frank Earl

NOTICE: Due to the lack of a quorum, the 5-27-15 ARSA Board Meeting has been adjourned until: Wed June 3, 2015 at the Amador County Health & Human Services Office Conference Room "E" at 10am. http://www.cityofsuttercreek.org/amador-regional-sanitation-authority.html

COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES (CASA): NEXT TRAINING BEGINS MONDAY JUNE 8 - Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program. The program has been active in Amador County for 10 years and has helped many children survive the trauma and confusion they experienced while their families were working to provide them a more safe and fulfilling environment. The CASA volunteers are trained to work with children from birth to age 21 and advocate for their interests. They also develop a solid relationship with the child and work as part of the team that is helping families rebuild their lives. No special qualifications are necessary other than having a little time to spend with a child and "good heart". Training is provided by the CASA program and continuing education and support are an essential part of the CASA experience. As we say,"In our community, our neighborhood, and our schools, there are abused and neglected children who need the help of a trained volunteer to look our for their interests. The next training class starts June 8th, For more information please call John at 257-1980. "Work with a child, it is a live changing experience"
For more information, contact John Stettler, Program Coordinator, 1001 Broadway, Suite 201, Jackson. Call 257-1980 or email jstettler@nexusyfs.org. CASA is one of the programs of Nexus Youth and Family Services.

AAUW LIBATIONS & CONVERSATIONS - The AAUW Amador interest group "Libations & Conversations" is meeting on Thursday, June 11 from 5:30 to 6:30pm at Baiocchi's in Sutter Creek. Our topic of discussion will be: "Let's Train Our Young Women to Stand Up and Shout Out!" This is a fun, casual way for AAUW members and interested prospective members to gather and discuss various topics over no-host drinks. AAUW is a national organization that advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. Membership is open to all graduates who hold an associate or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university. For more information, contact Suzanne Nicholson at szyqueue@gmail.com, or visit aauwamador.org.


“READ TO THE RHYTHM” AMADOR COUNTY CONCERT BAND - Mon Jun 22 from 6:30-7:30 pm at the Margaret Dalton Children’s Center, 975 Broadway, Jackson. A part of the Summer Reading Program, listen to the Amador County Concert Band play all time favorites! Learn about the instruments in the band and the different sounds they make. Meet the members of the band! Open to all ages. For more information on this and more “Read To The Rhythm” dates and times, contact the Amador County Library at 223-6400 or visit the Amador County calendar at http://amadorgov.org/about/county-calendar/-curm-6/-cury-2015

THE HEALING WORD Foursquare Gospel Church. Have a blessed Father’s Day, Men!  Men’s Breakfast June 20 9:00 to 11:00 AM.  Women’s Breakfast with Bonnie Evans, popular speaker and author, our speaker  9:00 to 11:00 AM, Saturday, June 27th.  On July 25th Women’s Breakfast is a Baby Shower to support Amador Pregnancy Help Center.  Sunday Morning Services are 10:30 AM.  We serve buffet lunch immediately after. Sunday Evening Services at 6:00 PM, begin May 17 running through the end of October featuring a variety of speakers.  Pastor Mary Ann Barcklay; 200005 Hwy. 88, Suites A & B, Pine Grove; Phone 296-SAVE (7283).


SPRING GENERAC HOME STANDBY GENERATOR SALE (While Supplies Last!)
All sales subject to Ca. sales tax
8 kw                                                                                               $ 1835.94
11 kw with automatic transfer switch                                         $2794.24
16 kw with automatic transfer switch                                         $3197.50
22 kw with automatic transfer switch                                         $4352.68
20 kw synergy with automatic transfer switch                           $4832.20
Call 245-3269 or visit: http://www.shortcircuitelectricinc.com/

FREE GREEN WASTE RECYCLING IN SUTTER CREEK: A dumpster has been placed at the Sutter Creek Fire District Station One, 350 Hanford Street, for yard waste recycling. This service is available to ALL Amador County citizens. Only small yard pruning are accepted, no large limbs, stumps, garbage, appliances or construction debris.

POSITION OPEN AT LFPD: SECRETARY
Lockwood Fire Protection District has an opening for the position of Board Secretary.  The Secretary position includes taking minutes of regular and special Board meetings; assisting the Board President in preparation of the agenda; and maintaining the records of the Board’s actions.
Residency within the district is not required.  There is a modest, quarterly stipend of $100 (every 3 months).  If you are interested or would like more information concerning this position, please contact the Board President Cathy Koos Breazeal, 209-419-2383 or email  ckoosbreazeal@gmail.com
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Meet Locals on TSPN's Amador Live! Sharing who's doing what and what's going on in Amador County. Simply click and watch!
TUNE IN each morning to AM LIVE! Live stream at: http://www.tspntv.com/tspn-shows/am-live

Coming up...
MAY 2015

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"ACROSS THE RIVER"
Events in Tri-County area:

TRUSTING HEART CONCERT featuring multi-platinum songwriter, Alex Kash with Grateful (the band), Sunday May 31 at 1 pm Columbia Nursery, 22004 Parrots Ferry Rd. Sonora CA 95370. $15. Tickets can be purchased at Live Oak Music in Sonora by calling 209-532-5303.

SOUND UNDERGROUND JAZZ TRIO – Sunday May 31 at Petroglyphe Gallery, 8317 Main Street, Moke Hill. Talking about a revolution…Sound Underground Jazz Trio is revolutionizing the music world! Classical Revolution got its start at San Francisco’s Revolution Café. It has since become a “movement”, spanning 30 cities, now making its way to the Sierra Foothills via Petroglyphe Gallery. The trio is composed of guitar, trumpet and alto saxophone, plus woodwinds. These innovative young men have been globetrotting their fresh sound to an international audience. Their collaboration began as roommates studying at the Frost School of Music in Miami and continues today. Doors open at 3;30; music begins at 4PM.  Get your tickets now at http://gallerypetroglyphe.com/music-concert-series/

"OUR FATHER" SCREENING/Q&A AND RED CARPET EVENT - Sat June 20. Multi-Award-winning independent short film, "Our Father", has just won at the Big Island Film Festival!
Starring Michael Gross (Family Ties, Tremors), and Michael Worth (God's Ears, Devil Dogs).
There are two local (regional) fundraising events happening in Calaveras County!
HALF of the proceeds go to the Northern CA Alzheimer's Association!
SATURDAY, JUNE 20
SPECIAL SCREENING EVENT/Q & A at 1PM
RED CARPET EVENT - 7PM
A great opportunity to meet the actors AND fund raise for a cause that impacts many, MANY families with loved ones with dementia/Alzheimer's. Please, spread the word!


For information and tickets, visit:


Or...


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MORE "Across the River" resources/announcements:
Tri-County Events and More" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TCEAM/
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Have a newsworthy item for any of ACN's departments?
Email your releases or news briefs to: newsroom@newsamador.com

Newsletters

Community Calendar
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May
May 25-31
EVENTS AT FAITH LUTHERAN:
Saturday, May 30th - Singles Outing:  We are visiting the Knights Ferry Recreation Area in Yolo County, home to the Knights Ferry Bridge, the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi. Also stopping at the Cheese Factory in Oakdale.  All Are invited! Meet us at 10am in the church parking lot. For more info contact Rocki Bengtsson (296-7267).
Sunday, May 31: Farewell Party for Pastor Dawn:  The farewell party will follow the 10:30am service in Luther Hall. For more information contact Carol Smith (296-2363)
Have a Prayer Request?  Please contact Patty Larsen, our prayer chain team leader (257-1101). She will make sure your request is on the prayer chain, read in church on Sunday, and placed in Faith’s Word.
Summer Day Camp:  Sign-ups for the 3rd Annual Faith Alive Summer Day Camp, June 29 to July 3, are in full swing. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of this very exciting program. Space is limited. Scholarships are available. Registration forms can be found on our web page. Please call Karin Heikkila, 296-7945, or email her at karin@volcano.net

GRAND OPENING & WORKSHOP: ESTABLISH A SUMMER GARDEN IN THE MOTHER LODE! Learn which vegetables are best suited for our climate, when, where, and how they should be planted along with gardening techniques for the best produce this summer.  This workshop will be held at the Historic Chichizola/Cuneo Ranch located at 1334 Jackson Gate Road, Jackson.  Saturday, May 30, 2015, 8:30-10:00 am with a cost of $15 per person.  Free Grand Opening Celebration 10:30 – 12:00 Noon.  Call ACRA for more information at 223-6349.
ACRA-ARCD Community Garden in Jackson is now taking Plot Reservations. Small plots, 4x12, with annual fee of $50. Large plots are 4x24 with an annual fee of$100.  There is a $100 refundable deposit. Located at the Historic Chichizola/Cuneo Ranch, Jackson Gate Road, Jackson  Please call ACRA at 223-6349  
ACRA-ARCD Community Garden Kids Summer Program.  This program runs Mondays, June 8 – July 27, 9:00 am -12:00 Noon.  Learn to garden and make fun crafts. All ages are welcome.  Please send a snack and water with your child.  Located at the Historic Chichizola/Cuneo Ranch, Jackson Gate Road, Jackson  Please call ACRA at 223-6349.

STRING BEAN ALLEY 5K FUN RUN will be held Saturday May 30, 2015 in Amador City. Race starts at 9:00 am. If you register before May 20th you will be guaranteed a t-shirt and finishing medal. The race starts on Water Street and ends 3 miles later on String Bean Alley.  First three finishers will get to participate in the Centennial Parade. Check in on Water St. across from the Post Office by 8 a.m. Youth $20, Adults $25.  For information call ACRA at 223-6349. Or register at http://www.active.com/amador-city-ca/running/distance-running-races/string-bean-alley-5k-fun-run-2015?int=


DON’T MISS! SPECIAL RAFTING TRIP ON THE MOKELUMNE, SAT MAY 30! Have you always wanted to see the Mokelumne from river level? Float the beautiful Middle Bar reach downstream of Highway 49? Here's your chance.
There are still seats available for the 9 am and 3 pm Mokelumne River raft trips on Saturday, May 30, with O.A.R.S. of Angels Camp. It's a beautiful paddle for the whole family, with splashy rapids, lovely scenery, beautiful wildlife and some leisurely floating. You'll float the Mokelumne from Electra to Middle Bar with expert guides and top-notch professional equipment. Trips depart from Jackson, with transportation provided to and from the river.
This is a special opportunity. Commercial rafting is not yet available on the Mokelumne, so this trip is being carried out with a special use permit. One day only!
You must reserve your paddle in advance. $75 per person. Minimum age is 6, and minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
All proceeds benefit Foothill Conservancy's river conservation program.
For more information, call 209-223-3508, e-mail carolyn@foothillconservancy.org or see http://www.foothillconservancy.org/pages/events.cgi?calcatid=1&calid=566&_fn_=566.563

EVENTS AT FAITH LUTHERAN:
Saturday, May 30th - Singles Outing:  We are visiting the Knights Ferry Recreation Area in Yolo County, home to the Knights Ferry Bridge, the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi. Also stopping at the Cheese Factory in Oakdale.  All Are invited! Meet us at 10am in the church parking lot. For more info contact Rocki Bengtsson (296-7267).
Sunday, May 31: Farewell Party for Pastor Dawn:  The farewell party will follow the 10:30am service in Luther Hall. For more information contact Carol Smith (296-2363)
Have a Prayer Request?  Please contact Patty Larsen, our prayer chain team leader (257-1101). She will make sure your request is on the prayer chain, read in church on Sunday, and placed in Faith’s Word.
Summer Day Camp:  Sign-ups for the 3rd Annual Faith Alive Summer Day Camp, June 29 to July 3, are in full swing. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of this very exciting program. Space is limited. Scholarships are available. Registration forms can be found on our web page. Please call Karin Heikkila, 296-7945, or email her at karin@volcano.net

SOPHIA’S WELL OF WISDOM - May’s theme is “The Kingdoms of Nature. 5/31, the Human Kingdom. Wisdom Circle begins Sunday at 10am. Self-Care Class on Saturday 5/9, The Fundamentals of Self-Care: Mediation, Exercise, and Nutrition, 10am. Ageless Wisdom Lecture: Spiritual Evolution, Wednesday 5/20 at 6pm. Women Writers, Mondays at 6pm; A Course in Miracles, Tuesdays at 7pm. Sacred Dance, Wednesday 5/6 – 6/10 at 12:30pm. Register for next available Meditation class; call 304-6174. The spiritual wellness center is located at 270A Hanford Street in Sutter Creek, 209-418-9003, www.sophiaswell.org

AMADOR HIGH VOLLEYBALL “UNSTOMPABLE” 3-ON-3 VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT- Sunday, May 31 at 9AM. Join us for the 1st Unstompable 3-on-3 Tournament. This is a FUNDRAISER for the Amador High School Volleyball Program. This is a co-ed tournament with 3 different divisions of play. $30 in advance/$40 day of.
Division 1 - High School (Girls & Boys)
Division 2 - Jr. High and Younger
Division 3 - Open (All ages... Girls, Boys, Women & Men).
Prizes to be awarded for 1st and 2nd place in each division. Trophy for 1st Place.
Registration Forms & Rules will posted soon. Goal is to get at least 30 teams. 10 teams in each division. All day play. Team must fill out and return will full payment to Amador Volleyball to Amador High School 330 Spanish Street, Sutter Creek, CA 95685, or you can drop off in school office to Tammy Kalp or give to Coach Emily directly.
Snack bar and Amador Volleyball merchandise will be available at event. Registration Forms & Rules, Questions, contact Coach Emily Tirapelle (209) 304-0305 or tirapelle19@yahoo.com


June+
ACRA-ARCD Community Garden Kids Summer Program - June 8 through July 27


THE PROGRESSIVE WOMEN’S COMMITTEE will meet on Thursday June 4, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. at Thomi's Banquet Room in Jackson. The program for June will be two-fold: Patsy Andrews, of Sutter Medical Foundation & the Diabetes Education Program, will discuss services and programs in Amador County and  Cathleen Berglund representing Foothill Fitness, a program for Amador County senior citizens. It is an exercise program  with multiple sites in the county. The goal is to promote an active lifestyle and to improve quality of life.  Reservations are required and may be made by contacting Sally at trestrail@gotsky.com  or 209-267-0177
no later than Monday, June 1st (sooner if possible). The buffet luncheon is $15.00 which includes an entree, salad, vegetarian offering various drinks, coffee, tea, dessert, tax and tip.
Pay at the door - cash (the exact amount is appreciated) or personal check only.
Note and this is important: If you make a reservation and cannot attend, please call Lynne at 209-295-4807 to cancel by Wednesday, June 3rd at noon.  If you have made a reservation and do not show up, you may be billed for the luncheon.
The next meeting will be August 6, 2015. There is NO MEETING IN JULY.

POOLS OPEN ON JUNE 6TH - Sutter Creek, Ione, and  Plymouth Pools are opening Saturday June 6, 2015 For more information, visit; http://goacra.org/programs.html#pools


COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES (CASA): NEXT TRAINING BEGINS MONDAY JUNE 8 - Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program. The program has been active in Amador County for 10 years and has helped many children survive the trauma and confusion they experienced while their families were working to provide them a more safe and fulfilling environment. The CASA volunteers are trained to work with children from birth to age 21 and advocate for their interests. They also develop a solid relationship with the child and work as part of the team that is helping families rebuild their lives. No special qualifications are necessary other than having a little time to spend with a child and "good heart". Training is provided by the CASA program and continuing education and support are an essential part of the CASA experience. As we say,"In our community, our neighborhood, and our schools, there are abused and neglected children who need the help of a trained volunteer to look our for their interests. The next training class starts June 8th, For more information please call John at 257-1980. "Work with a child, it is a live changing experience"

For more information, contact John Stettler, Program Coordinator, 1001 Broadway, Suite 201, Jackson. Call 257-1980 or email jstettler@nexusyfs.org. CASA is one of the programs of Nexus Youth and Family Services.

ACRA BINGO - Tues & Thurs June 9 & 16 at the American Legion Hall in Martell.
Doors open no later than 5:30.
6:15 Early Bird Bingo
6:30 Regular BINGO
Buy in $10 for $10 games – 6 top
Black out is up to $250!
Sodas are available for purchase (no alcohol served). Feel free to bring your own dinner (no food available). Many Raffle Prizes! We have Pull Tabs...another chance to win! Complimentary cookies and coffee! Proceeds go to support Amador County Recreation Agency After School Program. Please call 223-6349 for more information.

AMADOR COUNTY ARTISTS “STEPPING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE” - At the Wednesday, June 10 meeting of the Amador County Artists Association, artist Anje Olmstead will discuss how to prepare oneself to do professional work, challenging oneself to step outside one's comfort zone and why it is important to prepare a "series" of work.  Olmstead has created artwork in a variety of media including needlepoint, watercolor, collage and acrylic. The ACAA meets each month on the second Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the Senior Center, 229 New York Ranch Road, Jackson.   The public is invited and new members are encouraged.  For more information visit amadorcountyartists.org


EMPOWERING HERBAL MEDICINE Health and Wellness Class with Jessica Grant. Connecting body mind and spirit, while incorporating immune system support for healing!  This class will be held at the HUB, 206 main St. Jackson,  Wednesday, June 10, from 5:30 – 7:30 pm. The Cost will be $35. Please call Barbara at 223-1365 or email her at bnichols@amadorgov.org.

AAUW LIBATIONS & CONVERSATIONS - The AAUW Amador interest group "Libations & Conversations" is meeting on Thursday, June 11 from 5:30 to 6:30pm at Baiocchi's in Sutter Creek. Our topic of discussion will be: "Let's Train Our Young Women to Stand Up and Shout Out!" This is a fun, casual way for AAUW members and interested prospective members to gather and discuss various topics over no-host drinks. AAUW is a national organization that advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. Membership is open to all graduates who hold an associate or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university. For more information, contact Suzanne Nicholson at szyqueue@gmail.com, or visit aauwamador.org.

AMADOR FLYFISHERS, a local flyfishing club is offering a course on the ins and outs of fly fishing. Classes will be held on Sat & Sun, June 13th &14 from 9:00am – 4pm at the HUB, 206B Main St. Jackson. A fishing trip is scheduled for June 27th. The time and location to be announced.   Learn what fly fishing is about.  Find out the importance of Bugs and their life cycle.  Learn where to find fish and special regulations. You’ll be taught casting techniques and how to use your equipment. The Cost is $40.  Must be 18 years or older, Ages 12 – 17 may attend, accompanied by an adult participant.  To register or get more information call ACRA at 223-6349 or email bnichols@amador gov.org.

WESTERN MINING ANTIQUE COLLECTOR’S SHOW - Sat June 20 from 10 am to 4 pm at the Sutter Creek Auditorium. If you are a collector of mining artifacts or simply interested in California’s gold mining history, you won’t want to miss the Western Mining Antique Show scheduled for mid-June in the historic town of Sutter Creek where mining artifact collectors from throughout the state will gather to show and sell artifacts from California’s rich gold-mining era.
Scheduled for Saturday, June 20 at the Sutter Creek Auditorium, located at 71 Main Street in downtown Sutter Creek, the show provides the opportunity for mining collectors to meet, sell, and buy authentic mining artifacts and collectibles. Items such as miner’s candle sticks, carbide lamps, picks, shovels, and vintage artifacts from the state’s mining history will be on display and for sale. Large items such as ore carts and buckets and other tools of the miner’s trade will be part of the show.
The show is open to the public and is free of charge. Exhibitor spaces are available for a nominal fee. For information or registration, contact: Roger Peterson 209-267-5972 or Jim Swallow 530-295-0795.
Any questions or comments give me a call or email: Carol Swallow, 530-957-0796  cswallow@placerville.net

“READ TO THE RHYTHM” AMADOR COUNTY CONCERT BAND - Mon Jun 22 from 6:30-7:30 pm at the Margaret Dalton Children’s Center, 975 Broadway, Jackson. A part of the Summer Reading Program, listen to the Amador County Concert Band play all time favorites! Learn about the instruments in the band and the different sounds they make. Meet the members of the band! Open to all ages. For more information on this and more “Read To The Rhythm” dates and times, contact the Amador County Library at 223-6400 or visit the Amador County calendar at http://amadorgov.org/about/county-calendar/-curm-6/-cury-2015

HOSPICE “GRIEFBUSTER” VOLUNTEER TRAINING - Hospice of Amador & Calaveras is offering a training for volunteers during the month of June. These trained volunteers offer support to children and teens, ages 5-18, who have suffered the loss of a loved one or a friend due to death. The training will be held June 23 & 24 at the Amador Senior Center, 229 New York Ranch road in Jackson.   For those interested in finding out more about the training or to receive an application contact  Ann Metherd or Tammy Beilstein @ 209-223-5500 or by e-mailing, ann.metherd@hospiceofamador.org

"WINES OF THE WORLD" CLASS: Join in an exploration of the primary grape growing and wine making regions of the world.  Learn the varieties, growing conditions, geology and specific wine characteristics of wine regions in France, Spain, Italy, South America, and California.   Saturday June 27th from 1-5 pm. at a cost of $35. Please call Barbara at 223-1365 or email her at bnichols@amadorgov.org.

FAITH ALIVE SUMMER DAY CAMP - June 29 to July 3. This is the third year we for this wonderful camp. Four young counselors come from Mt. Cross Ministries with a full curriculum, materials, and enthusiasm. Faith provides the facilities and our beautiful wooded property with trails, grinding rocks and labyrinth. We also provide all the coordination and volunteers. Everyone has a fabulous time -- the kids, the counselors, and we old folks at the church! If you have kids or grandkids, sign them up! Enrollment is limited to 30, so you need to act quickly. We are also looking for high school kids to serve as junior counselors (a great, fun way to earn community service hours!). For more information, call me, Karin Heikkila, at 296-7945 or the church at 295-4545. Registration forms can also be downloaded from the website: faithlutheranpioneer.org or picked up at the church.

SAFE DRINKING WATER PROGRAM FUNDS AVAILABLE
The Amador County Environmental Health Department is currently accepting applications for the Safe Drinking Water Financial Assistance Program.  Amador County has limited funds available to assist homeowners with work necessary to protect public health from contaminated drinking water sources.
Eligible owners include:
• Those with nitrate contaminated wells within a defined area of the Ione Valley
• Owners County-wide with failing septic systems
Please review the Program Policy and download an Application.
Completed applications must be received by the Amador County Environmental Health Department no later than 5:00 PM, Tuesday, June 30, 2015.
Offers of assistance will be based on need and available funds.
If you have any questions about the program please contact the Amador County Environmental Health Department at 223-6439.

SAVE THE DATE! DECLARE YOUR “BIG CRUSH” ON AMADOR COUNTY’S WINE REGION ON OCTOBER 3 & 4! Each year, we celebrate the grape harvest by inviting our friends to join our 42 member wineries and get in on this most exciting time of year.  BIG CRUSH is a grand time to see the harvest in action and this year will be no exception. Saturday, October 3rd & Sunday, October 4th , 2015 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. you’re invited to see the Crush in full swing. Scenes of teeming vineyards, trudging tractors, bustling crush pads are accompanied by incomparable non-stop Amador wine region hospitality! Creative food & wine pairings, a variety of live music, and harvest activities are presented by warm & friendly family wineries.
Please join us and enjoy the sights, sounds, and aromas of this exciting harvest season. Tickets for the “Big Crush,” are good for wine tasting, food and all activities. Each ticket includes a commemorative wine glass. Tickets will be sold online at www.amadorwine.com beginningAugust 1, 2015. A ticket for your designated driver is only $10. Please drive responsibly and enjoy all that Big Crush weekend has to offer.
For more information on Amador’s “Big Crush” call 1-888-655-8614, e-mail info@amadorwine.com or visit the Amador Vintners website atwww.amadorwine.com

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E-mail your announcements for our calendar to: carol@newsamador.com

Meetings
CLICK HERE for the County Government Calendar
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GOVERNMENT MEETINGS:
SUTTER CREEK CITY COUNCIL meets on the 1st & 3rd Mon at 7 PM.
JACKSON CITY COUNCIL meets on the 2nd & 4th Mon at 7 PM
UPCOUNTRY COMMUNITY COUNCIL meets on the 2nd Mon at 6 PM.
SUTTER CREEK PLANNING COMMISSION meets on the 2nd Mon at 7 PM.
JACKSON PLANNING COMMISSION meets on the 3rd Mon at 7 PM.
IONE CITY COUNCIL meets on the 1st & 3rd Tues at 6 PM
AMADOR COUNTY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT meets on the 2nd & 4th Wed at 6:30 PM
PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL meets on 2nd & 4th Thurs at 6:30 PM
AMADOR WATER AGENCY BOARD OF DIRECTORS meets on Thursdays at 9 AM
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OVER-EATERS ANONYMOUS OF JACKSON…if you think you have a problem with food. Everyone is welcome! Every Monday and Friday, 5:30 PMSutter Amador Hospital. Oakview Conference Room, in Education Dept on 2nd Floor. Contact Liz, 295-6921.

Classes, Workshops, Seminars
Amador County Recreation Agency (ACRA) - Classes, programs, camps, sports, and more!
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SUMMER PROGRAMS AT THE HUB!
Summer Programs at the HUB! Enjoy Arts and Crafts, Theatre Workshop, explore the world through books and Art and Fun games while learning.  Programs run Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. June 8th through the end of July.  Please contact Barbara at 223-6349 or bnichols@amadorgov.org.
Youth Flag Football, 4th – 8th Grades.  First Game is Sunday June 28th at 5:30 at Jackson Jr. High.  The Cost is $30 per player and that includes 6 games & a t-shirt.  Cal 223-6349 or emailjwilliamson@amadorgov.org.  Sign ups also available online at goacra.org Coaches and referees are needed.
Adult Volleyball League, 4 on 4.  These teams can be all male, all female, or mixed.  Games will be held on Sunday’s starting June 14th at 1:30 p.m. at Argonaut High School. The cost per team will be $175.  .  Call 223-6349 or email jwilliamson@amadorgov.org Check us out online at goacra.org.
Adult Co-Ed Soccer League 7 vs.7 starts Tuesdays June 9th at 5:30 p.m. at Jackson Jr. High Field.  The cost per team is $400 for an 8 week League.  Call 223-6349 or email jwilliamson@amadorgov.org Check us out online at goacra.org.
Men’s Softball League starts June 15th Monday and Wednesday nights at Pioneer Park in Pioneer.  The Cost is $650 per team. Please register before June 4th.  The length of the season, play every team twice, plus playoffs for every team. The Home Run Derby will be held Wednesday, July 15th.  Call 223-6349 or email jwilliamson@amadorgov.org Check us out online at goacra.org.

LOCAL LANGUAGE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES - Bilinguals of all kinds and second language learners have many advantages, intelligence boosting, better job opportunities, higher salaries in public and other types of employment, more job security and best of all the study of another language is fun and provides protection against dementia, the scourge of aging America!  If you are ready to begin language studies now, or resume them in or around Amador county, I can help you find a way to get started whether through tutoring, classes, videos or tapes, on the internet, using music or television, geared to your style of learning and in the time that you have available. The secret of getting ahead is getting started and this is something people tend to put off for years, to their detriment. Expand your mind, and your horizons. Take the first step and call Profe Nora at 223-3322 for free advice.

SPANISH CLASSES STARTING NOW -  Bilinguals of all kinds and second language learners have many advantages, intelligence boosting, better job opportunities, higher salaries in public and other types of employment, better job security and best of all protection against dementia, the scourge of aging America! If you are ready to start Spanish language studies now, or resume them at still very low rates, call Profe Nora at 223-3322.

LEARN TO SPEAK FRENCH! Classes are taught by Amel Tafsout. Her beginning classes, Level 1 have been so well received that she is adding a Level 2 class. Classes will be held Tuesday evenings April 28 - May26, 2015.  Level 1 class time is 6:30pm – 8pm and the cost will be$70.   Level 2 class time is 5:30pm – 6:30 and the cost will be $65.  Classes will be held at 10877 Conductor Blvd.,  Sutter Creek. For more information call ACRA at 223-6349 or email bnichols@amadorgov.org

LANGUAGEMEISTER - Translations and private tutoring in French, German and Spanish
Genealogy research for clients searching for German ancestors. Member: Sacramento German Genealogy Society (SGGS). Contact information: Elke Duffy 209-296-5302, Email: elkeduffy@gmail.com www.languagemeister.com

SALSA DANCE CLASS for Men and Women. Salsa is a type of music and dance of Hispanic origin.  Salsa Music is based on Cuban music.  Salsa is a dance that has easy steps to pick up.  So the time it takes you to learn your first few steps and be able to dance Salsa is far, far shorter that you might think.This class is taught by Amel Tafsout who studied Salsa and Afro Cuban dances in Havana, Cuba.  Classes are on Wednesday evenings,April   29 – May 27, from 7 – 8pm, at the HUB  206B Main St. Jackson. The Cost will be $75. For More Information call ACRA at 223-6349 or email bnichols@amadorgov.org

AMADOR FLYFISHERS, a local flyfishing club is offering a course on the ins and outs of fly fishing. Classes will be held on Sat & Sun, June 13th &14 from 9:00am – 4pm at the HUB, 206B Main St. Jackson. A fishing trip is scheduled for June 27th. The time and location to be announced.   Learn what fly fishing is about.  Find out the importance of Bugs and their life cycle.  Learn where to find fish and special regulations. You’ll be taught casting techniques and how to use your equipment. The Cost is $40.  Must be 18 years or older, Ages 12 – 17 may attend, accompanied by an adult participant.  To register or get more information call ACRA at 223-6349 or email bnichols@amador gov.org.

ARE YOU A LOCAL ARTIST? Join the Amador County Artists Association, to share, network, and support local artists. The ACAA meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7 PM at the Amador Senior Center. Our meetings are open to the public, so come and join us! For more information, visit: AmadorArtists.orgFor more information, visit: AmadorArtists.org

GENTLE YOGA CLASSES - Team Fitness in Pine Grove is proud to announce the start of a Beginning Hatha Yoga Program with classes offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Classes will run approximately 40 minutes and will probably cost $4 with a purchase of a 10 class pass, ($5 drop-in) or can be included as part of your monthly membership if you come regularly to Team Fitness. We are taking suggestions on times you would like to see these classes offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays - please send an email with your interest in the gentle yoga classes and times you are interested in, and we will contact you before the program starts. Contact: Cherie Maitland coach@jacksonteamfitness.com

CHINA PAINTING WITH MARGARET ANWAY – Margaret Anway has decades of experience painting, as well as teaching china and glass painting. She has been published in “The China Decorator” magazine, and is happy teaching beginning artists as well as professional, and is flexible to your needs.
Classes are Tues mornings, 9-12 noon at Margaret Anway’s home, 26601 High Tree Ave, Pioneer. $7 per class. Call 295-8836 to schedule your first class or if you have any questions regarding the class.

Events & Activities
Main Street Theater Works - MSTW.org
Sutter Creek Theater - SutterCreekTheater.com
Volcano Theatre Company - volcanotheatre.org
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KENNEDY MINE HISTORIC SURFACE TOURS begin again in March and continue to Oct 31. Tours are given from 10am to 3pm. Contact: info@kennedygoldmine.com or 223-9542

More announcements...
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THE MONTEVERDE GENERAL STORE MUSEUM, one of Sutter Creek’s most beloved and historical buildings, got a much needed fresh look recently, with new paint and store name. The City of Sutter Creek, Sutter Creek Community Benefit Foundation and donations from visitors and volunteers, made it possible for the Museum to look like new again. Read more...


SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY AT MOTHER LODE JOB TRAINING - Mother Lode Job Training (MLJT -formerly Job Connection)  has Scholarship and Training funds available for eligible Adults and Dislocated Workers. Last program year, we awarded $297,000 in scholarships to eligible participants in fields from Medical Assisting, Truck Driving, Welding and more! Eligibility conditions do apply, so contact MLJT for more information and to see if you qualify. We are now located in the Health and Human Services building located at 10877 Conductor Blvd., Suite 700, in Sutter Creek. Hours of operation are Monday – Thursday, 8 AM – 4:30 PM, closed from 12 PM to 1 PM, and closed Fridays. Contact MLJT at 223-3341, or visit the website at www.mljt.org

AMADOR POLITICAL DISCUSSION GROUP on Facebook! Have something to say? Join today! https://www.facebook.com/groups/amadorpolitics/

“FINDING THE MOTHER LODE” - Movie by Gianfranco Norelli and Suma Kurien. Features the unique migration of the Italians to Amador County and the West Coast.Italian Immigrants in Amador County and the West Coast. Available for purchase now! This movie is slated to be shown on PBS sometime in the future. Featuring Amador historians Carolyn Fregulia, Doug Ketron and John Leggett. Unabridged copy: $25 total at the ACRA office. On Amazon: $28.95 plus tx. and handling. For more information call 223-6349.

LGBT - Let’s Discover Our Purpose Together, Peace, Understanding, Love & Life. We’ll PULL together! We will discuss issues that have shaped our past, present and future. Exploring avenues for renewed growth and peace will be an integral part of our time together. Class sponsored by Resources for Humanity, a non-profit 501c3. Those interested should contact Duke at 916-425-6393.

PHONE NUMBERS for Upcountry Community, Ione Family Resource, & Camanche Lake Community Centers:
Upcountry Community Center
19386 Hwy 88
Pine Grove, CA 95665
P: (209) 296-2785
F: (209) 296-2782
Ione Family Resource Center
17 S. Buena Vista Rd.
Ione, CA 95640
P: (209) 274-4655
F: (209) 274-4665
Camanche Lake Community Center
4419 Camanche Pkwy N.
Ione, CA 95640
P: (209) 763-2720
F: (209) 763-2740

DOCENTS NEEDED for Monteverde Museum. Presently, the museum is only opened two days out of each month.  When the museum is opened we usually have 20 plus visitors a day.  Local folks, visitors, in state and out of state are always happy to be able to go inside the store and experience the feeling of days gone by. Many will say it is like stepping back in time. Many will also say, they have been through Sutter Creek before and to their dismay the store has been closed.
 It would be beneficial for Sutter Creek if the museum would be opened more often. Unfortunately, we have a shortage of docents.  Presently, we have only 4 active docents to open the museum. We really need people to volunteer to just have the doors open to the public. If you know of anyone who has free time to do possibly one day a month, or even a few hours one day a month, please let us know.
 Still reaching out for other ideas to encourage folks to volunteer time. If you have any ideas please forward to me at rkf48@aol.com

AMADOR SENIOR VISITORS PROGRAM NEEDS VOLUNTEERS. Join a great group of people working in the community to help our Senior Citizens live safer, healthier lives. Please call Eileen at 223-0442 for information about how you can help!

DO YOU HAVE STACKS OF NEWSPAPERS laying around your house, waiting to be recycled? Then please bring them on down to the Busi Parking lot in Jackson behind Mel's. The Boy Scout Troops of Amador County are collecting your newspaper donations and accept on an on-going basis. The large cargo container sits at the very back of the parking lot. There should be pallets next to the dumpster, where everyone can leave their stacks. Anyone can drop off their newspapers 7 days a week, day or night. We ask that you only donate actual newspapers, no glossy advertising, magazines or books. All proceeds directly benefit the various Troops in Amador County. It's a Win-Win for everyone, Scouts, you and the environment! For more information, contact Jenny Fritz at artsychickenfarm@gmail.com