Friday, December 2, 2016

Friday, December 2, 2016

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "Learning to distance yourself from all the negativity is one of the greatest lessons to achieve inner peace."
- Roy T. Bennett

News & Announcements
NEWSLETTER: First 5 Amador - Dec 2016
NEWSLETTER: Amador Child Abuse Prevention Council - December 2016
VIA KCRA/MSN: Amador County man killed while fighting rebels in Syria
CAL FIRE Announces Over $15 Million in New Grants
Sutter Creek Lions donate to Parker's Pediatric Oncology Prom
The Deaver Dish - December 2016

OBITUARY NOTICES:
Richard Adelsperger
Donald Herman
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THE AMADOR DEMOCRATIC CENTRAL COMMITTEE will hold its biennial Organizational Meeting on Monday night (Dec. 5), 7:00 p.m. at our office in the Mother Lode Plaza (557 So. Hwy. 49, Suite 3 - around the corner from Modern Cuts).
This is the time when we swear-in new Central Committee members and elect new officers.  We will have some openings on the Central Committee, so if you're interested, please email Caryl Callsen at caryl@volcano.net for more information.
Anyone who would like to attend the meeting is invited - there will be some business, but also some social time with refreshments.
Thanks for your support,
Amador Co. Democratic Central Committee
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AMADOR COLLEGE CONNECT is offering full scholarships to students who would like to pursue a career in public mental health through Coastline Community College. Deadline for application for Spring semester 2017 is January 9.
Scholarship covers tuition, fees and books up to $2000 per year for students in the Human Services Certificate program. For more information, visit: www.amadorcollegeconnect.org
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VIA SUTTER CREEK POLICE: Recently we have experienced a number of residential burglaries in Sutter Creek. These crimes are understandably disturbing to the citizens, and they are disturbing to the police department.
Our officers have increased their patrol of residential areas, so you should expect to see more of the officers cruising through the neighborhoods. Please feel free to flag them down and talk with them if you have questions, or if you have something that you feel might help solve these crimes.
Typically, these crimes occur during the day when the criminal believes the homeowners are away. From the neighbor’s house across the street, it may look like a stranger knocking on the front door and then going around to the back of the house moments later.
We are fortunate in Sutter Creek to have many residents who are retired, or who work from home. In our efforts to prevent these burglaries and other crimes in our neighborhoods, those of you who are home represent our most powerful crime prevention tool. We need your eyes, and we need your voices.
So, if you see something suspicious, we encourage you to report it to the police department immediately. On a personal note, I want to share that many years ago, my home was burglarized in the very manner I have described above. It was traumatic to my family, and we felt violated and angry that someone had come into our home and fled with our stuff. We at the Sutter Creek Police Department will do everything in our power to prevent this from occurring to anyone else, and ask you all to join us by keeping an eye out for each other and reporting suspicious activity.
James O’Connell
Chief of Police
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OBITUARY NOTICES can be found at: www.danerimortuary.com
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See our Community Calendar [below] for more upcoming events, meetings and classes!
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December Newsletters
DECEMBER 1-4
-Dam removals near and far topic of Foothill Conservancy film screening in Sutter Creek - Fri Dec 2
- Free Flu Clinic at Sutter Amador - Sat Dec 3
- 11th Annual Las Posadas Candlelight Walk - Sat Dec 3
Sutter Creek Theater Presents: Winterdance w/ Molly's Revenge - Sat Dec 3
- Gill Landry in Sutter Creek: Songwriter takes the stage at Feist Wines - Sun Dec 4
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ONGOING IN DECEMBER:
- Friday Night Stroll returns to Jackson throughout December!
Amador Vintner's "Joy, Peace & Zin"
December Concerts at Feist Wines!
- Sutter Creek Gallery Themed Show for December
- Gallery 10 features William Porteous and Anne Marie Fielding in December
- AmadorArts' Holiday Adornments Show and Sale continues through December
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VOLCANO THEATRE COMPANY: “MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET” Friday & Saturday performances through December 10. Tickets and info can be found at: http://volcanotheatre.org/
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FILM SCREENING FOR “DAMNATION”- Removing obsolete, local and not-so-local dams and restoring streams will be the topic of a Friday, December 2 film screening of DamNation, hosted by the Foothill Conservancy. The film starts at 7:30 pm, at the Sutter Creek Theatre, Main Street, Sutter Creek. A short film on the recent removal of East Panther Creek Dam in Amador County will also be shown. Tickets are $15 pre-show, $17 at the door. Tickets can be purchased online at Brown Paper Tickets.  For more information, contact Carolyn, carolyn@foothillconservancy.org, 209-223-3508.
Film Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8X2dYnTX55E
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FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA - Saturday, December 3rd, 2016 from 12pm- 3pm, inside Aaron’s at the Amador Shopping Plaza. Kids: bring your letters to Santa to enter to win a brand new bike! Two lucky kids will win! Event is sponsored by the Amador Shopping Plaza. Santa is presented by the Volcano Theatre Company.
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3-ON-3 VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT - Saturday, December 3 at Amador High School. Register/check-in at 9:30 AM. Double Elimination, teams can be all male, female or mixed. Two age divisions: Sophomore in high school and younger, and Varsity players and adults. For more information, call ACRA at 209-223-6349 or email jwilliamson@amadorgov.org. Information can be found on ACRA’s web site at www.goacra.org, or visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/johnatacra
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A CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS AT THE HUB - Children’s Christmas for all ages! December 3rd, 10th & 17th 11am-5pm at The HUB, 206B Main St in Jackson. $5 donation appreciated. For more information on the Children’s Christmas please contact ACRA at (209) 223-6349 , acra@amadorgov.org or facebook.com/goacra
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IONE IT NOW is having their 4th Holiday Celebration at the shop, this Saturday December 3rd from 11:00-5:00, 12 East Main St., Ione. Lots of new merchandise, much under $20, which would make great Christmas gifts. And as usual, they will be serving the Best chocolate cake ever! Please come by to see the new Ione It Now! For more information, contact Cynthia Butler, 818-914-8917
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11th ANNUAL ARCREATIONS ART SHOW, SALE & RAFFLE- Sat Dec 3 from 9:30am to 1:30pm at The ARC, Amador Campus, 75 Academy Drive, Sutter Creek. ArCreations is an art show and sale featuring unique gifts made by unique people. From woodworking, ceramics and garden art, to painting, photography, jewelry and baked goods, you can find something for everyone on your Christmas list at this incredible event!  Or maybe find something for yourself!  Either way, it’s a great way to show support for several dozen talented Consumers of The Arc!
Raffle will be held at 1PM. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20 and can be purchased by calling Lurali at 209-267-5978, x25 or at the ArCreations Art Show and Sale.  Dozens of raffle prizes donated by local businesses throughout Amador and Calaveras Counties, along with game tickets, sports memorabilia, and more, make this raffle one of the greatest in the motherlode!  All proceeds benefit The Arc’s various art programs.
For more information, visit: http://www.arcofamador.org/
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11TH ANNUAL LAS POSADAS CANDLELIGHT WALK - Everyone is invited and encouraged to participate in the 11th annual Las Posadas Candlelight Walk on Saturday, Dec. 3 at 6:00 PM in Sutter Creek. This tradition, which has its origin in Spain, begins on Spanish Street near Immaculate Conception Church. Participants are given candles and programs. The procession is led by Mary riding her mule, Joseph, shepherds and angels, following the way which is lighted by luminarias.  Musicians lead everyone in Christmas songs, and narrators tell the traditional story. Several times the procession stops while Joseph knocks on doors seeking shelter.  Winding its way through downtown Sutter Creek which is blocked off to vehicles, the procession arrives at a stable in front of the Methodist Church.
Afterwards, everyone is invited into the social hall for homemade cookies and warm beverages.  The Candlelight Walk is sponsored by the Methodist, Catholic, Baptist, New Life, and Episcopal churches of Sutter Creek/Sutter Hill.  What a wonderful way to begin the Christmas season!
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HOSPICE ANNUAL TREE OF LIGHTS - Come celebrate the joy of rembrance. Hospice of Amador & Calaveras invites you and your family to join us in celebrating your loved ones during the holiday season.
Our Calaveras event will take place on Sat Dec 3 at 5 pm at our Angels Camp Thrift Store, 570 N. Main Street, Angels Camp.
The Amador County event will take place on Sun Dec 4 at 5 pm at the Hospice Thrift Store, 10776 Argonaut Lane, Jackson. Festivities for each location will include music, a candle lighting celebration, reading of names, tree lighting and refreshments.
A $10 donation can be made for each of your loved ones, and a light will be lit in their honor. The names you submit will be displayed at each store throughout the month of December. For additional information or to pick up a form, please go by the Hospice of Amador & Calaveras Thrift Stores in either Jackson or Angels Camp, call the Hospice office at 209-223-5500 or 209-736-9442. You may also visit us online at: www.hospiceofamador.org, or find us on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/HospiceofAmadorandCalaveras/
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DECEMBER 5-11
- NEW! Community Arts Classes Begin Dec. 6 and 7
- "Frosty's Magic Hat" presented by Tony Borders - Wed Dec 7
5th Annual Rail Road Flat Holiday Concert: Give the Gift of Music to Local Kids! Sat Dec 10
- Olde Tyme Christmas at Preston Castle - Sat Dec 10
Sutter Creek Theater Presents: Black Irish Band - Sat Dec 10
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ONGOING IN DECEMBER:
- Friday Night Stroll returns to Jackson throughout December!
Amador Vintner's "Joy, Peace & Zin"
December Concerts at Feist Wines!
- Sutter Creek Gallery Themed Show for December
- Gallery 10 features William Porteous and Anne Marie Fielding in December
- AmadorArts' Holiday Adornments Show and Sale continues through December
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AMADOR CHORALIERS “CHRISTMAS: FROM BOX OFFICE TO BROADWAY" - It’s the holiday season, and along with the traditions of cookies, caroling and countless Christmas lights, there are the feel good holiday movies we watch year after year. Whether your favorite is “It’s A Wonderful Life” or “White Christmas”, you will find a song or two from the soundtrack as the Amador Choraliers bring you “Christmas-from Box Office to Broadway”. Classic Christmas movies feature songs such as “Joy to the World’, Hark the Herald Angels Sing” and “O Holy Night”, while the Broadway stage brings you “We Need A Little Christmas”, “Counting Down to Christmas” and many more. It’s the season of song and the Choraliers have chosen their favorites to get you into the holiday spirit. The Choraliers are a mixed chorus that has been bringing the music of the season to their audiences for over 50 years.
This concert season begins on Thursday, Dec. 8th at 7:30pm, at the Cornerstone Church in Ione, and continues on Dec. 10th & 11th at 3:00pm, at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Parish in Martell. Tickets are $10.00 and may be purchased at the door or in advance at www.amadorchoraliers.org. Doors open a half hour before performances. Seating is limited, so don’t delay. For more information call Carole at 209-743-9258.
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15TH ANNUAL CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY FESTIVAL will be held on Friday, December 9 from 5:30 - 8:00 pm. Experience "Winter Festivals Around the World" as you visit booths representing different countries, featuring each country's holiday traditions. Join us for activities, music, snacks, Santa & Mrs. Claus, holiday entertainment, and community resources. This event is FREE - bring the whole family! Food donations for the Interfaith Food Bank are encouraged. This event will be held at the Margaret Dalton Children's Center, at 975 Broadway in Jackson. For more information, please call First 5 Amador at 257-1092.
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OLD TYME CHRISTMAS AT PRESTON CASTLE - Saturday, December 10. Travel back to olden times at the beautiful Preston Castle, from 10 am to 4 pm, and find lots of interesting arts, crafts, jewelry, baked goods, and other gift items while listening to Christmas Carols. Santa will be available for your wish lists and photos; self-guided tours of the historic Preston Castle can be taken between 10 am to 2 pm.
On Saturday night, view the Castle lit up in Holiday Lights, from 5 pm to 7 pm.
For more information, visit: http://www.prestoncastle.com/HolidayBazaar.html
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VOLCANO THEATRE COMPANY: “MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET” Friday & Saturday performances through December 10. Tickets and info can be found at: http://volcanotheatre.org/
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DECEMBER 12-18
- Chamber Client Appreciation Mixer at American River Bank - Wed Dec 14
Jackson Fire Department's Santa Patrol 2016! Begins Dec 15
Sutter Creek Theater Presents: Sourdough Slim's Wild & Wooley Christmas Revue - Sat Dec 17
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ONGOING IN DECEMBER:
- Friday Night Stroll returns to Jackson throughout December!
Amador Vintner's "Joy, Peace & Zin"
December Concerts at Feist Wines!
- Sutter Creek Gallery Themed Show for December
- Gallery 10 features William Porteous and Anne Marie Fielding in December
- AmadorArts' Holiday Adornments Show and Sale continues through December
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DECEMBER 19-31
MLJC CHANUKAH CELEBRATION - The Mother Lode Jewish Community (MLJC) will be holding its annual Chanukah Party on Thursday evening, December 29 in Murphys, CA.  This is a casual, fun evening for families and adults of all ages. If you wish to attend, please call ahead for directions and to reserve your place, as space is limited.  There is no charge, but we ask everyone to bring a potluck dish to share. Volunteers are also needed to help set up and clean up. You are also welcome to bring a menorah if you would like to light your own candles.
If you are interested in attending or for additional information and directions, please call the MLJC contact number: 209-533-1650 or email us at motherlodejc@yahoo.com. More details about this gathering and future activities can be found at www.motherlodejewishcommunity.org.
The MLJC’s mission is to provide opportunities and events that nurture a vibrant and enduring Jewish identity, culture and community in the Mother Lode, drawing members from Amador, Calaveras, Tuolumne and Mariposa Counties.  Guests and new members are always welcome. The activity calendar includes monthly gatherings, primarily in the Murphys/Copperopolis and Jamestown/Sonora areas. Wishing everyone a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!
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2017
- Mother Lode Friends of Music 2016-2017 Concert Schedule
SAVE THE DATE: Amador Upcountry Rotary Crab Feed - Sat Jan 21, 2017
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SAVE THE DATE: PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS - Wed Jan 11 for 6 weeks from 5:30-7PM at The HUB, 206B Main Street, Jackson. Class is for anyone who is interested in learning about their DSLR camera. $75 for the course. For more information, contact Barbara from ACRA at 223-6349 or email bnichols@amadorgov.org, or visit www.goacra.org
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SAVE THE DATES! BAKER STREET PLAYERS PRESENT: “THE FINAL TOAST” - Friday and Saturday evenings, January 27-March 4 at Baker Street West, 204 Main Street Jackson, 2nd floor above Hein & Co. Bookstore.
Directed by Beth Barnard. Tickets are $25. Performances: Doors open at 6:30 pm, curtain at 7 pm. For more information, call 209-223-2215 or email info@bakerstreetwest.com
Web site: http://bakerstreetwest.com/events/
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SAVE THE DATE! 7th ANNUAL BOOTS ‘N BOOKS CONCERT - The Friends of the Amador County Library are very excited to announce Adrian Brannan–aka Adrian Buckaroogirl as the featured guest at their annual Boots ‘N Books Concert. The young singer has won much praise, including that of veteran cowboy singer Dave Stamey. Stamey, who has sung at three B&B concerts, says of Buckaroogirl: “She writes all of her own music. It’s very centered on the buckaroo lifestyle. She’s the real deal."
You can preview Adrian's music at her website http://www.buckaroogirl.com/
The concert is set for 3 pm, Sunday, February 12, 2017 at Pine Grove Community Church. For more updates, visit: www.friendsoftheamadorcountylibrary.org
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SAVE THE DATE! STAN KELLEY MEMORIAL CRAB FEED - Saturday, February 25, 2017, Sutter Creek Auditorium, 18 Main Street. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. for no host bar
Crab Served at 6:30 p.m. (wine available,  full no-host bar).
Hosted by the Sutter Creek Lions Club. Proceeds benefit community service projects, scholarships and Sutter Creek Boy Scounts Troop #63. Sponsored by Chicago Fire Pizza, Karmere Winery, and Dr. Todd Pickens.
Tickets are $25 and go fast! Cash, check or money order. Call Chuck Swiderski at 209-296-3457 or email e-mail cswiderski@volcano.net for tickets and information.
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Opinions & Issues
PETITION: Fully investigate Amador County Supervisors’ Actions on HHS Building
GUEST COMMENTARY: Supervising Kickbacks - Mike Spence
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: The Amador Canal and My Well
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Meetings
CLICK HERE for the County Government Calendar
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CITY/COUNTY GOVERNMENT MEETINGS:
AMADOR COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS meets on the 2nd & 4th Tues at 9AM.
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.
IONE PLANNING COMMISSION meets on the 2nd Tues at 6PM
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 the 2nd & 4th Thursdays at 9 AM.
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FYI: Amador County BOS - FY2016-17 Proposed Adopted Budget
Amador County Civil Grand Jury Special Investigation Report
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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 PM, Sutter Amador Hospital. Oakview Conference Room, in Education Dept on 2nd Floor. Contact Liz, 295-6921.
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AMADOR COUNTY DEMOCRATIC CENTRAL COMMITTEE meets on the 1st Monday of every month at 7PM at their office at 557 Hwy 49 Suite 3, Jackson. Call 209-257-1397. The public is welcome to attend.
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INVITATION TO JOIN THE LOCKWOOD FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT AUXILIARY - We raise money for our volunteer personnel and have a lot of fun doing this. We have dinners, concerts and our annual pancake breakfast.
We meet every first Monday of the month. If you are interested in joining our group, contact
Carol Asmus at 209-2396-5681 or Marilyn Dillion, VP at 209-296-8011. Our website is www.lockwoodfire.org
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TODDLER PLAYGROUPS
Mondays through Thursdays
9:30 am - 11: 30 am
Various locations throughout the County:
Mondays - Camanche
Tuesdays - Jackson
Wednesdays - Ione
Thursdays - Pine Grove
A new year of the always-popular Toddler Playgroups has begun! FREE to all children aged 0-5, and their caregivers! Contact First 5 Amador for more information and specific locations, at 257-1092 or visit www.first5amador.com. Playgroups follow the ACUSD schedule.
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'MOM TO MOM' PERINATAL WELLNESS SUPPORT GROUP - 2nd Saturday of Every Month. 2:30 - 4:00 pm at the First 5 Building, 975 Broadway, Jackson. In this group for new moms and pregnant women, we support moms to recover from pregnancy and birth, help you feel well and be the mom you want to be, discuss anxiety, stress, depression, and difficulty adjusting, learn coping skills, relaxation techniques, and communication skills. Facilitated by Christa Thompson, LCSW. These groups meet on the 2nd Saturday of every month. For questions, information, and/or to RSVP for free child care, please call 257-1092.
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PARKINSON’S DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP - Interim Healthcare of Jackson is hosting monthly Parkinson’s Disease Support Group every third Tuesday of the month, from 10:30 am to 12 noon. We have a speaker for most meetings. We also have painting lessons for those who are interested. Call us at 209-223-9119 for more information.
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“READ ACROSS AMADOR” MEETINGS - 3rd Tuesday of Every Month at 12:30 pm at the ATCAA office at 935 S. Hwy 49, Jackson. Meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. Please mark your calendars, and join us to discuss ways to increase literacy awareness and opportunities in Amador County. Meetings are open to everyone! For more information, please call 257-1092.
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CAMANCHE SCHOOL READINESS PROGRAM - Wednesdays from 9:00 am - 11:00 am at the Camanche Lake Community Center. FREE to all children aged 3-5. Learn about letters, numbers, colors, shapes, and reading. Help your child get used to the rhythm and routine of school, and ready for kindergarten. Call Nexus Youth & Family Services for more information, or to enroll your child, at 763-2720 or 257-1980. Program follows the ACUSD schedule.
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EDUCATE, EQUIP & SUPPORT: BUILDING HOPE FOR PARENTS is a 13-week series designed to provide parents and caregivers with education about childhood mental health illnesses. The purpose is to provide education and promote the building of natural supports between parents. This series will inform participants about common childhood mental health issues and symptoms management techniques, as well as provide information on local resources to help address your children's mental health needs. Starting Wednesdays October 26 11:30 to 1:30. To RSVP please call 296-2785.
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'FOOTPRINTS' SUPPORT GROUP 3rd Wednesday of Every Month from 6:00 - 7:30 pm at Sutter Amador Hospital, First Floor, Mountain Room. Footprints is open to all parents who have experienced the death of their baby, from pregnancy through infancy. Footprints is also a place where grieving parents with similar experiences can come together and share their feelings about their loss, and the love for their babies. Adults only please. For more information, please call 257-1092.
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AMADOR REPUBLICAN CENTRAL COMMITTEE meets on the on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:30PM at their headquarters located at 12275 Martell Road (across from Panda House Restaurant). Our meetings are open to the public, and attendance is encouraged. For more information, visit: http://amadorrepublicans.com/
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LGBT (Life Gets Better Together) SOCIAL GROUP in Jackson for Lesbian, Gay, Bi and Trans Folk. Every 1st and 3rd Fridays from 4:00p. – 5:30p. at Hein & Co. ~ 204 Main Street, Jackson. All ages welcome! Join us for discussion, friendship and support. For more information call Marla at (209) 256-3750.
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Classes, Workshops, Seminars
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LI’L MINERS BUMPER CLASS” AT GOLD COUNTRY LANES - Every Tuesday at 11 am. Designed bowlers 8 years or younger. Learn bowling terminology along with bowling skills. Bowl 1 game per week for 10 weeks for $5 weekly. Bring a friend or make a new one! For more information, call 223-3334 or stop by Gold Country Lanes on 81 Ridge Rd, Sutter Creek.
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DO YOU HAVE AN OVERLY-FRIENDLY AND RAMBUNCTIOUS DOG who embarrasses you when friends come over? Would you like some step-by-step guidance to teach your furry wild child to politely sit to greet you and others?
Our Furry Friends offers a Doggie Door Manners Training mini-guide, a follow-up discounted phone or Skype lesson, and a 3-session training class.
For more info, please visit www.dog-b-good.com/DoggieDoorManners
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OPEN STUDIO AT WENDY WARD’S STUDIO - Bring your project or come for inspiration every Monday from 10am - 1pm. Enjoy conversation, tea and snacks & a chance to see what others are working on. Feel free to bring a lunch and spend time getting to know others.
Basic tools (scissors, cutting mats, etc.) and a variety of materials are available to sample.. No formal instruction, but ideas and suggestions provided if you need a spark!
$15 for a 3 hour block or purchase or 12 hours (4 weeks) for $50. For more information, call 295-2224. On Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/WendyWardStudio/
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GOLDEN GIRLS ‘N GUYS- Classes meet at 10:10 a.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays in Pine Grove at Team Fitness. We improve our balance, strength and stamina. The 45-minute classes are geared for seniors and for going at your own pace. Our ages range from 50s up into the 80's. Pay as you go or pre-pay $50 for 10 classes.
We have fun to great oldies music. Classes are small so you get lots of individual attention from a Certified Personal Fitness trainer who from experience, understands the issues of aging and helping the body stay healthy and strong! For more information contact Cherie Maitland at 209-304-5139.
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AMADOR COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL HAS OPENINGS - The Amador Cooperative Preschool in Jackson is Amador County’s only parent cooperative preschool, and currently has openings. ACP differs from other preschools in the county in that it is run by, and for, the preschool families. Each family shares in the operation of the school, and teachers and parents work together to create a positive, safe, nurturing, and fun learning environment for all children. A strong sense of community flourishes within this cooperative structure. ACP offers a morning preschool class that meets Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:30 - 11:30 am. Families may enroll their child(ren) for 2 or 3 days a week. Please call Teacher/Director Elaine at 257-0622 for current enrollment information.
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SPECIAL SENIOR FITNESS PACKAGE Do you or someone you know need to improve their flexibility and balance? Also strength and stamina are wonderful things to keep working on as we age into our sixties, seventies, eighties and beyond.
Team Fitness in Pine Grove offers a special mini-Personal Fitness training package to keep the price very affordable and to work with people one-on-one for half an hour ideally every week.
Please text or call 209-304-5139 to learn more and get started on improving your ability to be independent and active. A great gift to give a parent or grandparent!!
Cherie Maitland, CPDT
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NEW YORK FITNESS’ WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE CLASSES - Classes are free to members. Non-members, only $10 per class. Join the gym, and get the classes for free! Monday nights from 5-6PM in the Yoga Studio at NY Fitness, 615 New York Ranch Road, Jackson. This is an active class; please wear comfortable clothes.
Learn how to hit, strike, knee and kick. Learn how to defend yourself against grabs. Chokes, bear hugs and ground attacks.
Call 209.223.3236 www.nyftyfitness.com. Like us on Facebook!
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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.
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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.org
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GENTLE HATHA YOGA CLASSES meet on Wednesdays and Fridays from 12 to 12:45 pm at Team Fitness in Pine Grove. Classes are kept small for lots of special attention to help you make those healthy changes you've been wanting to make. Excellent classes for beginners and seniors! $8 or a pass of 10 sessions for $65. Contact: Cherie Maitland coach@jacksonteamfitness.com
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PARENTING WITH A PURPOSE - Thursdays 3pm to 5pm beginning October 20 at the Margaret Dalton Children's Center, First 5 Amador, 975 Broadway, Jackson. Come join us for our interactive and supportive fall series to learn and strengthen practical, proven positive parenting skills. For more information or to register, please contact Coral Stricler at 257-1980 ext 103 or cstricler@nexusyfs.org

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Ongoing Events & Activities
EVENT CALENDARS:
Amador Council of Tourism - TourAmador.com
Amador County Recreation Agency - goACRA.org
Amador Council of Tourism - TourAmador.com
Amador Vintner's Association - AmadorWine.com
Main Street Theater Works - MSTW.org
Sutter Creek Theater - SutterCreekTheater.com
Preston Castle - prestoncastle.com
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MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL AT JOSE’S CANTINA! Don't forget MNF at Jose’s Cantina in Jackson, with a great $5.00 Buffet and $2.00 12 oz Draft During games!
On Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Josesjacksoncantina/
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More announcements...
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COUNTY JOB OPENINGS: http://www.co.amador.ca.us/departments/human-resources/employment-opportunities
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WHY WAIT? GET MOTIVATED NOW! Have you found yourself needing a new place to call your fitness home? Look no further! We guarantee you'll find only the highest quality of fitness training in our state of the art, clean and energetic facility in Jackson. Why wait until the new year? Stay motivated and accountable through the holidays with one of our certified personal trainers! Call us today for more information and learn how easy it is to sign up! Motivate Personal Fitness Academy, 209-406-8828.
On Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/motivate.personal.fitness.academy/
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Federal Funding Available to Address Tree Mortality on Private Forestlands
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) in California is expanding its program to assist private forest landowners in addressing tree mortality and other drought-related damage to improve forest health. NRCS will provide financial assistance for landowners with dead and dying conifer forest trees in certain counties. Removing dead tree debris and other woody material will also help reduce the spread of invasive pests and reduce the threat of wildfire.
For more information, visit:
- https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/ca/newsroom/releases/?cid=NRCSEPRD1299458
and
https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/ca/programs/financial/eqip/?cid=nrcseprd440606
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SIERRA RIDGE WINERY has launched a new program to help out our local food bank! They are selling gently loved cookbooks for $5.00 and donating 100% of the funds to the Interfaith Food Bank. Every little bit helps! If you have gently loved cookbooks that you would like to donate, bring them by. We would be happy to put them on the shelf. In advance we say " thank you".
“We sold our first cook book today to some terrific folks from Washington. They were thrilled with the program as they volunteer at their local food bank. Very cool!”
To contact Sierra Ridge, visit: http://www.sierraridgewine.com/Welcome.html
Check Sierra Ridge’s Facebook page out at:
https://www.facebook.com/Sierra-Ridge-Wine-Culinary-487391321367412/
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SUPPORT LOCAL WRITERS: Please support local writers and take a look at Placer Gold Writers crowd-funding project. I wrote one of the short stories, and was part of the editing team; check out the Kickstarter video! Your support of our publishing project would be greatly appreciated. This is a new venture for me and I'm very excited! Please share this post: every pledged dollar ensures we publish this awesome new book soon!! Thank you so much.
Eva Dunn
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1097189210/through-button-eyes-a-collection-of-short-fiction?ref=thanks_link
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STILL SEEKING VOLUNTEERS: The Amador County Library is seeking volunteers to assist the library staff with Pre-School Story Time at the PLYMOUTH Branch.
Duties include helping to prepare story times by selecting appropriate reading material and crafts for pre-school children.
Story times at the Plymouth Branch are scheduled on the third Wednesday of the month from 10:30-11:00 am.
All county volunteers are required to:
1) Fill out a volunteer application (pick one up at the library);
2) Meet with the County Librarian to go over the volunteer position requirements;
3) Be fingerprinted and have a background check. (Fingerprinting and background checks are paid for by the library.)
If you are interested please stop by the Library in Jackson and fill out a volunteer application.
For more information contact the library: 209-245-6476
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MINI-GRANT OPPORTUNITIES: The Amador Child Abuse Prevention Council (ACAPC) has funding available for child abuse prevention mini-grant proposals for the 2016-17 fiscal year. One-time mini-grants will be awarded up to $2,000. The Amador Child Abuse Prevention Council has set aside funds towards the goal of contracting with qualified organizations and agencies to provide child abuse prevention services/programs within the County of Amador. Projects eligible for funding include schools, parent groups, non-profit agencies, and community organizations. The Council – a collaboration of county organizations, agencies, and community members – has found that the unmet needs in the area of child abuse prevention include the following focus areas:
•Drug & Alcohol/Substance Abuse Treatment/Prevention
•Parent Education/Parent Support
•Promoting Mental Wellness/Trauma Informed Care
•Developmentally Appropriate Behavior/Developmental Milestones Education
•Neglect/Distracted Parenting and Child Safety
Mini-Grant applications may be submitted to ACAPC at any time throughout the 2016-17 fiscal year, however grant reviews and awards will occur bi-monthly. For an application form please visit www.amadorcapc.org, or contact Amador Child Abuse Prevention Council at 223-5921, or by email at info@amadorcapc.org
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BEHAVIORAL SPECIALIST PROGRAM FOR CHILD CARE - Are you experiencing challenging behavior in your preschool or child care setting? First 5 Amador has contracted behavioral specialists that can help! These professionals can provide either child-specific or comprehensive consultations for child care providers and early childhood educators in Amador County. Consultants work with you, the child (age 0-5), and parents by offering on-site and phone support, strategies, tools and linkages to the support and resources that you need. This program is free. Please call First 5 Amador for more information, at 257-1092.
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STILL FOR SALE! 1925 MODEL T: This antique 1925 Model T truck has been in the same family since it was new. The motor has been re-built. It has a new radiator, new tires, new paint, original oak wheel spokes, extra parts and much more. Must see to appreciate. The original truck was used on a farm as a flat bed pickup with stake sides, but has been turned into a unique mobile advertising van.$8,000 has been put into it with most parts coming from Sacramento Vintage Ford. Please call Georgia at 209-267-0774. Asking $10,000. Thank you.
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SUTTER CREEK FIRE HISTORY PROJECTS RECEIVES $1000 FROM SCCBF - A BIG Thank You to the Sutter Creek Community Benefit Foundation for their donation of $1,000 to the Sutter Creek Fire History Projects. The Sutter Creek Fire History Projects research, preserve, recreate and display the local fire and fire department history, and will also act as a tourist attraction for Sutter Creek and Amador County as a whole. The projects focus on the volunteer aspects of the local fire department organizations that bound the members together, the social aspects of the groups and their service to the community.
To see more about our projects and how you can help, please visit:
"WOOD ANGELS provide free firewood to seniors, disabled, vets, and others in need who are having a hard time making ends meet.
Wood donations are primarily from private property owners
Wood Angels need to continue this service as the need is growing and they need monetary donations as well as volunteers, who are willing to split wood, stack wood, pick-up wood, and make deliveries of wood.
The group is totally volunteers, and no one is compensated for their time. All monetary donations go towards gas for pick-up/delivery, chainsaws, chains for chainsaws, splitter and splitter repairs, tarps, base rock for yard, pods for storing equipment at yards, new or used trucks for same.
Wood Angels have a Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/firewoodangels/) and are in the process of developing a website
Thanks for the opportunity to share this very valuable service for the residents of Amador County. If you need any more information, please contact me (Nancy) at the info below. Again, thank you!"
Nancy Fort
(209) 295-4876 (office)
(209) 256-2226 (cell)
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A MESSAGE FROM THE ANIMAL SHELTER: It seems there are always "stray" dogs at the shelter. Many dogs are found wandering by community members, others are picked up by AC.
Please, please, if your dog has gone missing call the shelter or better yet go to the shelter. Take them a flyer or a copy of a photo and description. Check back daily. Currently there are several "stray" dogs there. Big dogs and small dogs! If your dog (or cat) missing he might be waiting for you, alone and scared. (209)223-6378 12340 Airport Rd. Jackson
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GREEN WASTE DUMPSTER AT LOCKWOOD FIRE STATION: To assist the upcountry residents with keeping a defensible space around their homes, Amador Fire Safe Council working together with Farmers Insurance obtained a grant to provide a green waste dumpster at Lockwood Fire Station #151.
This is the second year this program has been available to those in the Lockwood Fire District area. Anyone can use the dumpster as long as it is only vegetation - pine needles, leaves and branches less than 2 inches in diameter. Due to the discovery of electronic waste in the dumpster, video cameras are now monitoring the dumpster and fire station area.
The dumpster is located at 23141 Shake Ridge Road, approximately 3 miles above Daffodil Hill. If you use the dumpster, please clean up after use and insure all vegetation is inside the dumpster. No plastic bags are allowed in the dumpster. We encourage everyone to use this free service to help keep your home safe.
For more information, contact Jackie Vaughn, Communications, Lockwood Fire Protection District, 209-296-5122.
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VIA UPCOUNTRY COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Here's the information and application for the free low flow toilets & shower heads. Please read the requirements on "Eligibility" to be sure that you're a customer of one of the listed water agencies. Also, put your home address on the map by clicking on the "here" in the sentence "You can view a map of these areas here." Or you can call to verify that you're eligible. If you are, fill out and submit the information on the "Application" page. http://umrwa-conserve.org/
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FYI: The Office of Administrative Law approved the re-adoption of the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection’s Drought Mortality Amendments. This emergency regulatory action readopts the 1038(k), Forest Practice Rule relating to the harvesting of dead and dying trees related to drought and bark beetle induced mortality.
The Department of Insurance completed the Home/Residential Insurance and Wildfire FAQs” document to provide information for homeowners experiencing cancellations or non-renewals, Fair Plan information and other pertinent homeowner insurance information.  The FAQ document has been posted to the Tree Mortality website.  See links.
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GALLERY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED at the AmadorArts Gallery in Sutter Creek.
Every Saturday & Sunday the Gallery is staffed by volunteers from 11-4. You do not need to be an artist, just enjoy art and chatting with people
Call or email DeDe at 267-9850 or email: dederyan@sbcglobal.net
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NOTE FROM LYNN MORGAN (D3 SUPERVISOR): “...I received a notice from our General Services Director, Jon Hopkins, about how best to report unusual wildlife behavior.
There is apparently an increase in rabid skunks in our county. Though I hope you are aware that wildlife should mostly be left alone, not fed, IF you notice any wild animal acting strangely, especially during daylight hours when most stay hidden, please call Animal Control, 223-6378.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Rabies links and resources on CA Public Health: http://www.cdph.ca.gov/healthinfo/discond/pages/rabies.aspx
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THE LABYRINTH PROJECT - Have you heard about labyrinths? Do you wonder what they are? What they do? Why they are so popular? The Labyrinth Project has formed in Amador County and is looking for people who may be interested in learning about labyrinths and in being trained to become  a volunteer/docent for labyrinth walks. To learn more, contact The Labyrinth Project at (209) 256-3750 or e-mail the Labyrinth Project Coordinator at mvandermeer@norcalmha.org
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DO YOU HAVE A HEART FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS? Can you offer a safe, loving and supportive home? Do you have a desire to improve your community?
There is an immediate need for Foster Families in Amador County! Families of all kinds are welcomed! Foster care needed for ages 0-18. SCFS offers guidance, support and ongoing training throughout the entire foster care process.
Please call Sierra Child & Family Services, 209-257-1244.
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MINER’S BEND COMMEMORATIVE BRICK PATHWAY - PERSONALIZED BRICKS AVAILABLE -The Sutter Creek Community Benefit Foundation invites you to participate in Sutter Creek’s new Miners’ Bend Historic Gold Mining Park by buying a personalized  engraved brick in the Commemorative Pathway. You and your family will not only provide financial support to the Foundation and help finish this park, but you will cement your place in Amador County’s gold mining history forever.
 The SCCBF’s goal for completion of this park is this summer, 2016. The Park will feature over a dozen displays telling the story of Amador's roll in the California Gold Rush. Work is being done on interpretive signage that will give visitors a brief history of the gold rush in Sutter Creek and Amador County, with historic photos and descriptions of each artifact on display.
Purchasing a brick is the perfect way to commemorate loved ones, promote your business or organization, honor a special occasion, or find that special gift. Personalized Bricks start at only $100. Remember, your brick purchase is tax deductible. Buying a personalized brick helps the Sutter Creek Community Benefit Foundation preserve our cultural heritage in Amador County. To order, visit www.sccbf.org . For more information please call Frank Cunha at 209-304-9192.
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BE A DISASTER HEALTH CARE VOLUNTEER! County volunteer application and fingerprinting scan required. Once clearance is received, you would be sworn in as a Disaster Service Worker. For more information, visit: https://www.healthcarevolunteers.ca.gov/
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ART IN PUBLIC PLACES - The Amador County Artist Association (ACAA) has several benefits to being a member, one of those being Art in Public Places, where the artist can get regular exposure to build a reputation and occasionally make a sale with no commission fees.  This program also gives the location the opportunity to be known for original art on their walls and to promote awareness of original art. The exhibits rotate every 2 months.
Our current locations include Rosebud’s Cafe (downtown Jackson); the Superior Court of CA, County of Amador; American River Bank; Amador Senior Center; Sierra Eye Care; Amador Residential Care; Jackson Paint Spot; and Castle Oaks Golf Club in Ione.  Currently, the program has a good balance of artists to locations. New artists and locations are always welcome.  If you would like more information, contact Colleen Williams, Committee Chairperson, colleenwill@volcano.net or (209) 295-2877.
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INTERFAITH FOOD BANK VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! The Interfaith Food Bank is trying to increase its volunteer roster. If you are looking to fill some time, build your resume, get some exercise, and give back to the community, the Food Bank has a variety of opportunities to do so. We are looking for volunteers to work both on-call and weekly shifts. Please email or call Assistant Program Coordinator Claire Gunselman cgfeedamador@gmail.com or 209-267-9006. Must be 18 years and older. Positions in warehouse, food pick up and drivers (DMV record required).
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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.
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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
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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!
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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


JOB OPPORTUNITIES

AMADOR COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
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JOB OPPORTUNITY: ACHIEVING BALANCE CHIROPRACTIC is looking for a Front Desk Chiropractic/Administrative Assistant to help with our busy practice.  Chiropractic knowledge is not necessary though interest in natural healing is very helpful.  Must be a mature and positive individual who enjoys working with people of all ages, be able to multi-task (hold/entertain a baby while talking on the phone and scheduling on the computer), phone and computer skills needed (Comfortable with Word and Excel, researching/using the internet), math and organizational skills a plus.   While there are computer and phone duties, this is not a 'sit at the desk' type of position, there are patient flow and patient care duties as well.  Hours are M, T, W: 9-6, F: 9-3 and every 3rd Saturday of the month: 8-1:30 (more hours may be available depending on skill-set). Chiropractic care for you and your family is provided, but no other healthcare benefits. Serious inquires please send resume to: info@myABChiro.com
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JOB OPPORTUNITY: ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT - AmadorArts is hiring and we need your help to find the perfect new team member!
AmadorArts seeks a dynamic and experienced person to fill the role and responsibilities of Administrative Assistant to work with our Executive Director and Board of Directors to provide a variety of arts opportunities throughout our county and promote the arts as a community asset.  
Assistant will begin working 10-12 hours per week in January. Hours will increase to 20-25 per week beginning in March as Executive Director takes maternity leave. $15 - $18/hr dependent on experience and qualifications. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership and management skills and be able to work independently on multiple tasks. Good organization skills essential.
Complete job description at www.amadorarts.org.  Application deadline December 16th.
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JOB OPPORTUNITY: BEHAVIORAL SPECIALIST - First 5 Amador is seeking resumes from qualified behavioral specialists (MFT or LCSW) with knowledge of early childhood mental health; experience in early care and education; and experience in working with young children and families in a collaborative setting.
This is a contract position. Please forward your resume and cover letter using one of the following methods, by Saturday, December 31, 2016:
Mail:
First 5 Amador
PO Box 815
Jackson CA 95642
Fax: 209-257-1098
For questions, please contact First 5 Amador at (209) 257-1092.
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DICKEY’S NOW HIRING! Looking for enthusiastic, customer-service oriented people. Flexible hours. Come on in and apply! 12240 Industry Blvd, Suite 74. 209-223-2748.
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JOB OPENINGS: VICTORY VILLAGE: Are you interested in helping veterans? We have an opening for Outreach Specialist and Housing/Benefits Coordinator. Resumes can be sent to info@victoryvillageamador.org, dropped off at 12408 Kennedy Flat Road in Jackson or faxed to 209-223-2297. Please include a cover letter. For more information and job descriptions for the positions, call 209-223-2286.
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