Friday, December 23, 2016

Friday, December 23, 2016

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree."
- Roy L. Smith
News & Announcements
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 19-31
CAL TRANS: Lane Closures for Traffic Signal in Jackson/Hwy 49 - Dec 20-23
Amador Water Agency - Thurs Dec 22
- SPECIAL MEETING: Jackson City Council - Thurs Dec 22
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ONGOING IN DECEMBER:
Grocery Outlet: Wonderful WOW Deals are in store for your Christmas!
VIA Sierra Hearth & Home: Stove tax credit expires December 31
Wine Tree Farm is open on Christmas Eve!
Amador Wellness Cottage: Sleep Retreat
Last Minute Gift & Stocking Stuffers from Refresh
New Year's Eve Celebration at Gold Country Lanes!
Christmas Eve and New Year's at The Mountain Grill!
Sutter Creek Theater: Upcoming shows in January
Give the Gift of Bella Grace!
Roaring Camp's Dirt of the Month Club
- The 12 Days of Christmas - Volcano Style at the Union!
- Refresh Spa's Holiday Gift Certificate Special!
Wine Tree Farm Holiday Specials!
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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OUR FOSTER CARE GIVING TREE is up at Anytime Fitness! The community is encouraged to stop by and grab a gift tag with a Christmas wish on it for a local foster youth. Purchase the gift and return it to the gym unwrapped. Thank you so much! - Sierra Child & Family Services
On Facebook at: www.facebook.com/Sierra-Child-and-Family-Services-115903554417/
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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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MINI GRANTS AVAILABLE! We are pleased to announce that CAPC 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 next deadline for applications is December 30. For all the details and an application, please visit the CAPC website, or give us a call, 209-223-5921. www.amadorcapc.org. And please help spread the word!
APPLICATION: http://media.wix.com/ugd/0d5a83_643a1b3ce11742c79c4a97ef9fd8d7c4.pdf
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JANUARY+ 2017
World Dance Class - Tues Jan 3
Become a UCCE Master Food Preserver - Training program begins in February 2017
Barrel Tasting, Paired Foods & Remarkable Wines : Behind the Cellar Door Weekend
- 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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Jackson Creek Dental Group Opens Office for “Smiles for Kids 2017”
FREE Financial Literacy Program: Smart Money for Success - Jan-Feb 2017
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PROGRESSIVE WOMEN’S COMMITTEE:  January's PWC will meet on  Thursday, January 5, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. at The Highway House (formerly Thomi’s) banquet room. The speaker will be Dr. James Holmes Armstead, a retired professor of Strategy and International Law from the US Naval War College.  He has taught international law and national security policy for nearly 40 years. He may be able to shed some light on what we might expect during the next four years.  All those interested are welcome to attend.
Reservations are required and may be made at sallytrestrail@gmail.com no later than Tuesday, January 3rd (sooner if possible). The buffet luncheon is $15.00. You may pay at the door.
Cash (the exact amount is always appreciated) or personal check only. If you make a reservation and cannot attend, Please call 267-0177 to cancel by noon on Wednesday, January 4th. If you have made a reservation and do not attend, you may be billed for the luncheon.
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BEGINNING SQUARE DANCE CLASSES - Start off the New Year square dancing! Beginning square dance classes with popular caller Kip Garvey start Thursday, January 5 – learn to square dance in 12 weeks. Couples, singles and families are all welcome to enjoy fitness and fun with the Jackson Claim Jumpers. Modern square dancing will surprise you – dance to a wide variety of music, no dance experience or special clothing needed. Thursdays, 6:30 pm at the Amador Senior Center Hall, 229 New York Ranch Rd, Jackson. For more information visit www.jacksonclaimjumpers.com or call Janine Oneto at 245-6221.
PHOTO LEFT: Nationally-known square dance caller Kip Garvey is a popular and lively teacher.
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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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MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT: GARDEN PLANNING – VEGETABLES & ANNUALS, NOW & LATER - After the hustle and bustle of the holidays has passed, January is a great time to begin planning and planting parts of your spring vegetable garden. This year why not include a few well, chosen annual flowers to brighten up and add color to your veggie garden. Annuals also attract pollinators that can help your vegetables.
Join the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County on Saturday, January 14, 2017 for their public class, “Garden Planning: Vegetables and Annuals Now and Later”. Topics that will be discussed include appropriate plant and site selection, planting times and techniques for different elevations and microclimates, soil preparation as well as pest management using UC approved IPM (Integrated Pest Management) methods. Hand-outs will be available. The class is free and open to the public. No reservations are required. All classes are held in the GSA building at 12200-B Airport Rd. in Jackson from 9am to Noon.
For questions, call the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County at the UC Cooperative Extension Office from 10am to noon, Tuesday through Thursday, 223-6838 or email mgamador@ucdavis.edu.  Website:  http://ucanr.edu/mgamador    
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VIA ACN READER: Anyone in Amador County wishing to learn the art of cheese making there's a class being offered at the Imperial Hotel in Amador City January 16, 2017. The cost is $25 and it includes lunch afterwards. Starts at 10am and ends about 12:30.
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JACKSON ROTARY CLUB BOWL-A-THON - The Jackson Rotary Club is seeking applications for their 23rd Bowl-A-Thon to be held Friday January 20, at Gold Country Lanes. The event, open to any type of youth group or non-profit organization, will start at 6 pm.  Participants will receive a t-shirt and a meal.  Examples of groups benefiting from past Bowl-A-Thons include Boy Scouts, school bands, sports teams, Amador Lifeline, church youth groups, and the City of Jackson youth programs.
Your teams of 5 bowlers are required to gather pledges prior to and immediately after the Bowl-A-Thon.  While bowling, your group has opportunities to earn additional money by rolling strikes when there is a “red pin” in the head pin position.  The Jackson Rotary Club, through the generosity of event sponsors distributes any additional prize money to participating teams after all the event expenses are paid.
If your organization needs to raise money and want to participate in this fun three-game event, contact John Swift at 223-3334 extension 5, or send an email to john.swift@goldcountrylanes.com
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SKUNK HOLLOW VICTORIAN GARDENS PRESENTS: IVORY & GOLD - "Ragged and Righteous Blues:  A journey thru the long, rich and varied tapestry of the blues!" Mark your calendars for Friday, January 20 at 3p.m., for a return of Ivory & Gold, featuring Jeff and Anne Barnhart. I will be serving my Skunk Hollow Victorian Gardens wine with their name on the label during intermission and the potluck dinner following the concert; feel free to bring a dish to share.
Jeff Barnhart, piano/vocals
Anne Barnhart, flute/vocals
Praised by The L.A. Jazz Scene as a musical duo that can “draw out the beauty in the rich melodies and play the music...with taste, sensitivity, and a real affection for the idiom,” Ivory&Gold® celebrates the greatest examples of American jazz, blues, ragtime, Broadway and hits from the Great American Songbook. Internationally renowned American musical performer and historian Max Morath calls Ivory&Gold® “musically flawless.”  
Additional information:  www.parkerartists.com/Ivory&Gold.html
Reservations: sutterchip@yahoo.com  209-986-3667
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BUS FOR WOMEN’S MARCH ON JAN 21 - Amador friends - there's a bus going to the Women's March on Sacramento on January 21. The bus seats 54 and there are already 20 reservations -- so don't wait too long to act. Send $40 check made out to Sally Trestrail, with notation "Women's March Bus", P.O.Box 1054, Sutter Creek, CA 95685
Reservations at sallytrestrail@gmail.com or 267-0177.
More info about the march can be found on the AAUW site at:https://www.aauw-ca.org/event/womens-march-sacramento/
On Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/events/1608790356081772/
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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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MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT: SELECTION AND CARE OF ORNAMENTAL SHRUBS  & ROSES - Many homeowners in Amador County have ornamental shrubs in their landscape or garden. Many might also be considering adding to the shrubs and have questions about which ones to choose.  If this sounds like you, plan on attending the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County class “Selection and Care of Ornamental Shrubs and Roses” on Saturday, January 28, 2017. This class will discuss various ornamental shrubs that grow throughout Amador County and the season in which they bloom. We will also discuss the proper time to prune these shrubs, as not all of them are pruned at the same time.
The second part of the class will discuss the most popular types of roses which can be grown in a landscape or garden setting in Amador County (Grandiflora, Hybrid Tea, Floribunda, Polyantha, Climbing, and Antique). We will also discuss how to best care for your roses throughout the year, including planting, irrigating, fertilizing, and pruning. We will also be discussing common diseases and pests of roses, and how to manage them in a way that is consistent with Integrated Pest Management. We will be demonstrating how to prune a rose, and then we will be raffling it off to a lucky member of the audience. Hand-outs will be available. The class is free and open to the public. No reservations are required. All classes are held in the GSA building at 12200-B Airport Rd. in Jackson from 9am to Noon.
For questions, call the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County at the UC Cooperative Extension Office from 10am to noon, Tuesday through Thursday, 223-6838 or email mgamador@ucdavis.edu.  Website:  http://ucanr.edu/mgamador
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MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT: TABLE GRAPES AND OLIVES - Grapes and olives grow well in the foothills. The local weather and soils seem to agree with them as these crops have a long history in the area. Join the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at the “Table Grapes and Olives” class to learn how to add table grapes and olives to your home garden or orchard. Backyard grapevines can provide a variety of tasty grapes as well as shade, while olive trees add color and texture to the landscape along with a useful fruit.
The class will provide information on site selection, planting, irrigation, fertilizers and harvesting table grapes and olives. Proper training and pruning methods including first and second year pruning will also be discussed. . Hand-outs will be available. The class is free and open to the public. No reservations are required. All classes are held in the GSA building at 12200-B Airport Rd. in Jackson from 9am to Noon.
For questions, call the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County at the UC Cooperative Extension Office from 10am to noon, Tuesday through Thursday, 223-6838 or email mgamador@ucdavis.edu.  Website:  http://ucanr.edu/mgamador
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MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT: GRAFTING FRUIT TREES - Join the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County on Saturday, February 11, 2017 for this timely class on grafting backyard fruit trees. Local Master Gardeners will present a hands-on clinic covering grafting techniques for home gardeners. Whip, tongue and cleft grafts will be demonstrated and practiced. Bud grafts will also be discussed. Learn how to grow a fruit salad tree. A variety of fruit tree scions will also be available for participants to take home. Hand-outs will be available.  The class is free and open to the public. No reservations are required. All classes are held in the GSA building at 12200-B Airport Rd. in Jackson from 9am to Noon.
For questions, call the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County at the UC Cooperative Extension Office from 10am to noon, Tuesday through Thursday, 223-6838 or email mgamador@ucdavis.edu.  Website:  http://ucanr.edu/mgamador
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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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MASTER GARDENERS PRESENT: PLANT PROPAGATION: Get ready for your springtime garden by learning the best practices for getting your vegetables off to a successful start. Seed starting and using plant cuttings to clone new plants is one of the most exciting and interesting facets of being a gardener. This class, “Plant Propagation”, on Saturday, February 25 will include an informative lecture followed by hands-on practice under the supervision of UCCE Master Gardeners.
Bring seeds or cuttings (keep cuttings damp) for a plant you wish to start. Some seeds and cuttings as well as hand-outs will be available.  The class is free and open to the public. However, we are asking that you call 223-6838 or email mgamador@ucdavis.edu to make reservations. Please leave your name and the number attending. All classes are held in the GSA building at 12200-B Airport Rd. in Jackson from 9am to Noon.
For questions, call the UCCE Master Gardeners of Amador County at the UC Cooperative Extension Office from 10am to noon, Tuesday through Thursday, 223-6838 or email mgamador@ucdavis.edu Website: http://ucanr.edu/mgamador  
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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
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: The Amador Canal and My Well
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VIA JIM GUIDI (KVGC Radio). We've received a few calls reporting a possible "Christmas to Remember" scam. We do not call requesting donations, or go door to door. Please let everyone you know about this. I'll see you Wednesday and Thursday at the Jackson Creek Plaza."
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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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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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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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'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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TAKE THE SURVEY: Amador County Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan Update Survey
This survey is being used as part of the Needs Assessment for the Amador County-wide Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan Update process. We would like to know more about your walking and biking needs within the county. Please also make sure to add comments to our Public Comment Map to identify where you currently walk and/or bike within the county and existing hazards for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Click on the link below to take the survey:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAZUxXiHhf1835Jw9VYvSDp0BVI7AamgJajeDlxO-VRSFKQA/viewform
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THE EAGLES CHEER COMPETITION TEAM (left) recently competed in their first ever competition, the JAMZ Capitol City Championship in Sacramento. The Eagles won 2nd Place in their division and scored enough points to qualify for the JAMZ Nationals in Las Vegas. The cheer team is going to community groups and asking for donations/sponsors. The girls give a short presentation on their team and their accomplishments. Checks are made out to Eagles Cheer and we are using the football/cheer tax IDnumber. ACE (Amador County Eagles) 26-2270845. For more information or to make a donation, contact Terri Sue Canale-Dalman, 448 Quailhollow Dr., Ione 95640 - 209-614-1292.
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VIA DICKEY’S BARBECUE: “To our loyal customers: It is with a sad heart that we have to announce that we have found it necessary to close our Dickey’s Barbecue Pit here in Jackson.
As most of you know, we have put our heart and soul into building this restaurant. We have been here day in and day out working with our employees to be the best. We have been regularly funding this restaurant out of our own pockets to keep it open, but now can do that no longer. We truly appreciate your patronage over the past 4 years.”
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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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"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: 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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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.