State of California released 18,000 criminals in Re-alignment--Theft is NOT a real crime???

   Did you know that auto theft is NOT a violent crime?  Fooled us, because it seems that anytime someone steals something from you that you worked hard for, it is indeed a VIOLENT offense.

   The uptick in more car thefts is directly related to the California State Realignment law, but they aren't really bad criminals, just CAR THIEVES, right!

Caution on Hwy 4 in Ebbetts Pass

   Near the USFS offices in Hathaway Pines, Cal Fire is attempting to load up some heavy equipment it was using to clear cut an area across Hwy 4.

   Traffic is being led around a stopped Cal Fire vehicle, in order to facilitate the loading of the equipment before the rain starts. Be extra cautious if headed in that direction.

Four vehicle collision in Lodi area

   September 30, 2015 at 2 PM:  CHP is still at the scene of a 4 vehicle collision, including a big rig on Hwy 99 and Cherokee Road in the Lodi area.

   No injuries have been reported, but they are awaiting a big rig tow truck. Use extra caution if in that area.

Calaveras County Water District goes back into hiding?

   It seems that the Directors of the Calaveras County Water District are worried about their next elections.  We have asked each Director and staff about this newest

Is your dog missing in Jenny Lind? Traffic Hazard.!

  September 30, 2015 at 8:30 AM:  CHP has received a report of a medium sized brown dog running back and forth across Hwy 26 at Jenny Lind School, causing a traffic hazard.

   If you are missing your dog, you better go check before it gets run over.

OP-ED: Can Bernie Sanders be Labeled?

       Whatever the fate of Bernie Sanders' presidential bid, his current popularity provides an opportunity to clarify the various political labels attached to him;

Rollover in Groveland

   UPDATE:  The driver had extricated himself from the vehicle, which was upside down in the ditch by the time fire personnel reached the location.

Jim Carrey's girlfriend commits suicide...

   Jim Carrey's apparent on-again off-again girlfriend Cathriona White, was found dead of a supposed suicide earlier today.

     The couple was rumored to have broken up again a few days ago.

Car Fire in Oakdale

   September 29, 2015 at 3:55 PM:  A green Mitzubishi is reportedly on fire at Hwy 120 and Pioneer Avenue in Oakdale.

   Fire personnel are en route to the scene. The driver is out of the vehicle. Use extra caution if in that area.

Cal Fire holds Butte Fire community meeting in Mokelumne Hill

   A Butte Fire community meeting is being held by Cal Fire in Mokelumne Hill on September 30, 2015.

   It will start at 6 PM and is being held at the Mokelumne Hill Town Hall on Main Street.  There should be a lot of thank yous going around since Moke Hill was surrounded and protected by fire engines for days.

Transformer explosion on Hwy 4 in Avery

   A transformer has been reported exploding at Hwy 4 and Sheep Ranch Road in Avery.

   Fire personnel are on the scene. PG&E has been called. Be extra careful if in that area.

Calaveras County OES got no approval for "Mutual Aid" during Butte Fire

   Tonight at the Calaveras Supervisors will approve after the fact the "mutual aid" that the Calaveras Sheriff ordered on September 12, 2015 for removing people from Hwy 4 during the Butte Fire.

Got our limit, Bucky!

Time to go home. I get the fat one!!

Live Power lines down in Mokelumne Hill

   September 29, 2015 at 12:50 PM:  Live power lines have been reported down on Sequoia Drive near Old Greek Mine Road in Mokelumne Hill.

   PG&E has been notified. They are getting a crew together to send to the scene.

Mustang goes through fence in Angels Camp

  On September 28, 2015 a resident at Gold Cliff Road and Finnegan Lane reported a Mustang went through a fence and a white male driver with 'tats' was trying to leave the scene.

   The Calaveras Sheriff's Office took a report of the incident.

Ripon holds annual Emergency Parade

   On October 3, 2015 from 8 AM to 3 PM the Ripon Police in association with the Menlo Park Police will hold their 25th annual Emergency Vehicle Show at the Ripon Community Center on 4th Street.

Skunks not so bad.....

This little fella won't bother you much,
unless you really p*** him off or
he feels threatened. Isn't he cute?
Like all the other critters in this horrible drought,
they are searching for water and seeds.

Betty Mae Anderson of Mountain Ranch

   Betty Mae Anderson passed away on September 14, 2015 at the age of 84. She was born on February 24, 1931 in Quincy, Illinois where she lived until

Butte Fire stirs up angry controversy--PG&E going UNDERGROUND??

   Once PG&E mentioned that a tree may have fallen into a power line and sparked the start of the Butte Fire, there has been a lot of yelling on both sides.

   Some feel that PG&E should be

Calaveras County Council of Governments--CCOG corruption

   The Calaveras Council of Governments (CCOG) which is the only distribution center of all highway and road moneys to come into Calaveras County, is in political turmoil.

   After the fight

This doesn't make you cry????

Then nothing will!
Clear-cutting has now been proven by the Butte Fire
NOT NOT NOT to prevent devastating fires!! You must
create desert to prevent embers from ONE tree from flying
for miles to a new vegetation source.

Don't forget! Calaveras Supervisors meet tonight--Prayers for Edsel

Here goes poor Pastor
Edsel again!!

   On Tuesday September 29, 2015 at 5 PM the Calaveras Supervisors will hold a meeting to pray for Cliff Edsel, (Edson) who says he has had a HARD 3 weeks

Illegal intoxicated shooting in Railroad Flat

  A resident on Blossom Lane in Railroad Flat reported that a neighbor was intoxicated and firing a gun.

   The Calaveras Sheriff took no report.

Theft (LOOTING) in West Point continues

  More theft, or looting, was reported on Stanley Road in West Point on September 27, 2015.

   Apparently more than one residence was reporting thefts. The Calaveras Sheriff took a report.

Goat and dog on Doe Road in Railroad Flat

   On September 27, 2015 around 8 AM a goat was reported on Doe Road, followed by a dog.  No one knows who the owner is.

   Animal Services was notified. There are still many animals without regular homes, just like people, in that area.

Big Rig hazard in San Andreas

   September 28, 2015 at 4:20 PM:  A big rig has lost its transmission and is causing a traffic hazard near Hwy 49 and Hwy 12 in San Andreas.

   Use extra caution until a big rig tow can hook up and remove it.

Overturned vehicle in Merced--Major Injuries

   September 28, 2015 at 11:15 AM; One vehicle overturned after a collision at Dickenson Ferry Road and Gurr Road in Merced.

   An air ambulance is responding due to major injuries incurred. A tow truck was dispatched to turn the vehicle right side up and remove it from the roadway. Avoid the area if possible.

House Fire in Blue Lake Springs

  UPDATE at 10:30 AM:  Per Ebbetts Pass Fire, both Cal Fire and EPFD responded to what they found to be a fully engulfed home.

   The fire was

What do Dennis Mills, Marti Crane and George Fry have in Common?

   What have Dennis Mills (running for CCWD), Marti Crane (always running for something) and George Fry (another constantly running for office) got in common, besides running for office a lot?

   Well, it seems that they all three are striving to be "STARS".  We saw Dennis Mills, just like Crane and Fry, go the the Angels Camp City Council meeting (because they film) and announce where people can find videos of him.  OH, BROTHER!! Not another one!!!

Wildlife starving in Calaveras

   One of the many sad and disparaging  problems after the Butte Fire is that so many wild critters (those who survived) are now in strange places, lost and without a source of water, and in many cases, food. And now it's the cruelest of times;

Caltrans roadwork on Hwy 88

   Be cautious on Hwy 88 from the Amador County line through Alpine County as Caltrans will be working on that section this week.

Starving seabirds due to warming ocean

   The Bay Area bird rescue centers are being overwhelmed with seabirds brought into them in starving, weakened conditions this year.

   The Common Murre, for example is one species who suffers from the warming waters of the ocean, making food hard to come by.

Letter to the Editor: Elections have consequences

    Dear Sierra Sentinel editor:

    After reading the article about COG, I have to say that the NEW extremists in charge now are a direct result of the OLD extremists

Fire in Burson

   According to Cal Fire they responded to a report of a grass fire in the 7500 block of Leslie Court in Burson on September 26, 2015 around 11:50 AM.

   Caused by a riding lawn mower, the fire was extinguished at around 1/4 acre.

Fire in Pool Station Road area

 UPDATE September 27, 2015:  Per Cal Fire this was caused by a mechanical problem at an engineered septic system.  It was extinguished at about 1 acre.

Butte Fire Update...

   As of 6:45 AM September 27, 2015 the Butte Fire is officialy 93% contained at 70,868 acres.

   With 475 homes, 343 now listed again as outbuildings and 43 other structures destroyed, Calaveras County will take many years to rebuild, and sadly, nearly half of those we spoke with say they will not rebuild in Calaveras.

Raiders in Cleveland today -Niners...

   The Oakland Raiders (1-1) will face the Cleveland Browns at 10 AM in Cleveland today.  The game will be on CBS at 10 AM.

   The 49ers

Vehicle vs pole, tree, fence and house

  Around 2:30 AM on September 27, 2015 a vehicle crashed into a pole, then a fence, a tree and finally a house on Twin Oak Drive in Jamestown.

   CHP is still at the scene. PG&E, Tuolumne County Sheriff, and other emergency personnel have been working for hours to assist in clearing the debris and helping the homeowner.

Stay away from Council of Governments CCOG--CORRUPT!!

   After this weeks Calaveras Supervisors meeting, it became perfectly clear that there is a battle brewing (a political battle) over seats on the COG board in Calaveras County.

Littering or ARSON??

   On September 25, 2015 the Calaveras Sheriff received a call about a cigarette being thrown out of a car window on Hwy 4 near Utica Dam above Murphys.

   The Sheriff has it listed as "littering" but I believe most would call this "ARSON"! The Sheriff took no report.

Switzerland bans Volkswagen

   After the revelation that Volkswagen had falsely adjusted carbon outputs on its vehicles, Switzerland has now banned the sales of any Volkswagens in the country.

  The cost of correcting the intentional falsification of readings could cost Volkswagen dearly in business and in fines.

Deer running for their lives--Hunting Season!

   Unfortunately, the USFS and Fish and Wildlife are still allowing hunting of innocent animals, even though many have already been injured and horrified

BMW into ravine in San Andreas area

   September 26, 2015 at 9:15 AM:  A blue BMW reportedly went off Hwy 49 near River Ranch Road  and 75' into a ravine.

   No injuries have yet been indicated. A tow truck is en route to the scene. Use caution if in that area.

Major injuries as vehicle overturns

   September 26, 2015 at 6 AM: A vehicle reportedly overturned, causing major head injuries to the driver at Hudson Avenue  and Valeria Avenue just outside Dos Palos.

   Apparently the mother was on a land line with the victim and drove to the scene. DUI may be suspected in this incident.  The patient has now been airlifted to the CRMC in Fresno.

Non-residences burned in Butte Fire higher "OFF THE GRID"

   As Cal Fire lowered the number of actual residences burned in Calaveras County to 475, they raised the number of what are now being referred to as NON-residences

Butte Fire Community Meeting in Mountain Ranch

   Cal Fire will conduct a community meeting in Mountain Ranch, Calaveras County, to provide INFORMATION on the Butte Fire.

   We are told that representatives will be on hand to address community needs and answer questions at 6 PM at the Community Clubhouse at 8049 Washington Street.

Hunters love their deer meat....

Fire in Jackson

   September 25, 2015 at 3:50 PM:  A fire has been reported with power lines down at New York Ranch Road and China Graveyard Road in Jackson. (ranch incident)

    Fire personnel, including water tenders, are en route to the scene.

Chrysler hits big rig's tire

   September 25, 2015 at 3:30 PM:  A Chrysler 300 reportedly hit the tire of a big rig on Hwy 99 near Morada Lane in the Loda area.

    No injuries have been indicated.  A tow truck is en route to the scene.

Motorcycle crash avoiding dog

   September 25, 2015 at 12:30 PM:  A motorcycle (fully dressed Harley) crashed after avoiding hitting a dog at Hwy 12 an Cal Drive in Lockeford.

  An ambulance and tow truck responded to the scene. Use caution if in that area.

Pope Francis comes to visit

  The Catholic Pope has come to visit the US; the White House, the 9/11 Memorial, the Congress and the United Nations.

  His speeches have been mainly of peace and helping the poor,

Herbert Filben of San Andreas

   Herbert (Herb) Bryant Filben passed away on September 22, 2015 while living at the Avalon Health Care Center in San Andreas.  He was 92.

Smoke reported in West Point--SPI clear-cut area?

 UPDATE at 10:15 AM;  Per Cal Fire, SPI says they have enough heavy equipment on site to handle the fire. 

  Do you remember Supervisor Wright once saying

15 year old's name on Calaveras Sheriffs log???

   We found it very odd, and probably illegal that the Calaveras Sheriff has listed the name of a 15 year old who was alleged to have pushed a teacher at a school on Old Oak Drive in San Andreas.

   The two were apparently separated when a deputy arrived. No arrest was made, but a report of the incident was taken by the deputy.

 

Arnold man arrested for Vandalism-Deputy Johnson in action again?

   According to the Calaveras Sheriff's Office,  Michael Thomas Acosta (49) of Arnold on Shady Circle around 4 PM.

Sequoia National Park is 125 years old today?

  

Created on September 25, 1890, Sequoia National Park
was the nation's 2nd national park. We need to
protect these regal giants from elected officials
like Cliff Edson, Steve Kearney and Michael Oliveira!!

Why total number of residences in Calaveras' Butte Fire are less now

   When the number of homes burnt down in the Butte Fire dropped from 545 to 475, we asked Cal Fire why the drop.  They indicated that they just got a more accurate count.

   After asking around, we were told that if a trailer or mobile home was not legally parked, or if a residence was not permitted by Calaveras County, it does not count as a home lost during a fire. Whoa!

Speaker of the House John Boehner resigning

We actually feel sorry
for Mr. Boehner, who
has been battling the
Tea Party for years.

  UPDATE:  Apparently Boehner isn't just resigning from Speaker of the House; he's resigning from Congress altogether.

   This is a total shock! This will hurt

Black Smoke at Sonora Regional Medical Center

  UPDATE:  The cause of this fire was located and extinguished without having to evacuate.

Breaking News: How many homes were lost in Amador County due to Butte Fire??

   For over a week, the SierraSentinel.com has been requesting information about how many homes were lost in Amador County and Calaveras County separately,

Pickup rear-ends big rig

   September 24, 2015 at 4 PM:  A Ford pickup rear-ended a big rig and then spun out on Hwy 99 at Hwy 120 in Manteca.

   Fortunately only minor injuries were reported. A tow truck has been dispatched to the scene.

Mormon Missionaries driving JAG??

   On September 23, 2015 a Copperopolis resident called in to the Sheriff's Office to report 2 men claiming to be Mormon Missionaries.

   She allowed them into her home, but later wondered if they were really missionaries, since they were driving a JAG. Though it might have been a SCAM.

Theft in West Point

 A resident on Higdon Spink Cutoff Road in West Point reported things had been stolen while he was evacuated.

   The Calaveras Sheriff's Office took the report.

More vandalism and burglary in Mountain Ranch

  Another case of vandalism was reported by a resident on Stagecoach Hill in Mountain Ranch.

   The house reportedly had lots of

Verbal racial disturbance at Evacuation Center

   On September 23, 2015 the Calaveras Sheriff was called due to a subject who was causing a disturbance, making racial comments and causing a verbal dispute at the Frogtown Evacuation Center.

   The Calaveras Sheriff did not take a report of the incident.

Motorcycle crash on Hwy 49

  UPDATE:  The rider suffered major injuries in this crash and was taken to the hospital.  Hwy 49 is now clear.

No District Attorney in Calaveras County

   We just sent a California Public Records request and demand for an investigation into the apparent deputy sheriff gang gone "mad" in Ebbetts Pass.

Car vs pedestrian in Sonora

   September 24, 2015 at 9:15 AM:  A vehicle has reportedly hit a pedestrian on Stockton Street in Sonora.

   Emergency personnel, including an ambulance are responding to the scene.

Supervisors Kearney & Edson give millions in freebies to Voorhees Development

  In one of the frequent unfriendly exchanges at the podium (which they try to hide) of  the Calaveras Supervisors September 22, 2015 meeting, residents in District 5 (Kearney) appealed his decision to allow the developer Voorhees

Car strikes pole guy wire

   September 24, 2015 at 8:50 AM:  A car reportedly struck the guy wire holding a pole at Phoenix Lake Road and Longeway Drive in the Soulsbyville area.

  No injuries were indicated, but PG&E will be sent out to repair the pole.

John Kenfield of Valley Springs

   John Kenfield of Valley Springs, passed away on September 20, 2015 at the age of 83.

   Born on February 6, 1932, Mr. Kenfield

Honda Civic rollover in San Andreas

   UPDATE: No injuries are indicated in this collision.

Car Fire on Hwy 99

   September 23, 2015 at 12:30 PM:  CHP and Cal Fire are at the scene of a vehicle fire on Hwy 99 at Main Street in Turlock.

   Use extra caution if in that area. No injuries were reported.

Motorcycle crash near Farmington

   September 23, 2015 at 9:30 AM:  CHP is still at the scene of a motorcycle vs. big rig collision on Hwy 4 near Farmington.

   An ambulance was dispatched to the scene. The rider was down in the roadway with major injuries. Use extra caution if headed in that direction.

Letter to the Editor: Butte Fire

   Dear Editor:

   It has taken me two days to write this after watching the September 15, 2015 Tuolumne Board of Supervisors presentation by Cal Fire's Josh White on the Butte

Sonora man dies in Jeep fire

   According to CHP, on September 22, 2015 around 3:30 PM a 71 year old male of Sonora was stopped in a driveway on Red Heather Drive

Baseball legend Yogi Berra dies

  Major League Baseball Hall of Famer and Yankees all-star Yogi Berra has died. He was 90.

   "It ain't over til its over."

Fire in Soulsbyville area

  UPDATE:  Crews quickly brought this fire into containment at about 3 acres.

Pickup vs Dirt Bike on Hwy 4

   September 22, 2015 at 12:15 PM:  A pickup and a dirt bike have reportedly collided on Pool Station Road near Hwy 4 in Angels Camp.

  One of the vehicles then hit the embankment after the crash.  CHP is en route. It isn't yet known if there are injuries.

Gold Rush Day cancelled

   The October 17, 2015 Gold Rush Day in Angels Camp has been cancelled, due to the Butte Fire.

   The committee is hoping that 2016 will be a better year for the celebration.

  

Fatal Collision in Strawberry

   According to CHP on September 21, 2015 around 6:40 PM a 74 year old

Calaveras Supervisors meet to pray again!!

Calaveras Supervisors will
also pray to bring their
personal brand of
religion into running
Calaveras County, like
they have before.

   UPDATE:  We want to thank the reader who reminded us that CERTAIN elected officials really believe it is the governments' JOB to hide the truth,

Looters and burglars are LOCAL!!

   Despite the intent of the Calaveras Sheriff to make it look like all the looting and burglaries related to the Butte Fire are

Hay truck vs cyclist in Valley Springs

   September 21, 2015 at 3:45 PM:  A hay truck and a bicycle reportedly collided on Hwy 12 near the substation in Valley Springs.

   Emergency personnel are en route to the scene. Use extra caution if in that area.

Grand theft fire equipment -- Memorial in Mountain Ranch

   On September 20, 2015 the Calaveras Sheriff's Office received a report of a Grand Theft--fire equipment from Hwy 12 in Valley Springs.

    Also a report of a theft of a roadside Memorial that had been placed at Mountain Ranch Road and Michel Road, crosses and lights, was reported to the Calaveras Sheriff.

Possible DUI on Hwy 49

   September 21, 2015 at 1 PM:  CHP was called to the scene of a vehicle blocking the roadway at Hwy 49 and Big Bar Road near the Calaveras County line. Drinking may have been involved, per CHP.

   A man apparently just got out of the car and started walking away. The woman is being taken to Sutter Amador Hospital. A tow truck has been dispatched, but be extra cautious until the roadway is cleared.

Car runs over womans foot

  September 21, 2015 at 12:25 PM:  A woman reportedly was trying to push he car out of the way behind the Post Office on Jessie Street in Mariposa and the car ran over her foot.

   Emergency crews, including an ambulance, are responding to the scene.

Dale Franklin Robitaille of Valley Springs

    Dale Franklin Robitaille was born in Phoenix Arizona on March 5, 1953. He passed away on September 12, 2015 at his home in Valley Springs. He

Okay Raider fans....

  After a little harassment about it, we will admit that the 49ers lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers, while the Raiders beat the Baltimore Ravens.

   Okay already, you're right!  We won't ignore those Raiders again.

National Guard arrive

   The California State National Guard has arrived in force this morning, as a caravan of tented style military trucks paraded down Hwy 49

Buses back on roadways in Calaveras

   School buses will be back on the roadways on Monday morning, September 21, 2015 after school decided to reopen in Calaveras County, so drive extra carefully.

   The Butte Fire has left many students in Calaveras Unified School District homeless; so it will not be an easy transition to go back to school.

Car 100' down embankment

   September 21, 2015 at 5:30 AM:  A collision reportedly at Hwy 99 southbound at Hwy 4 (xtown freeway) in Stockton has left one vehicle at the bottom of a 100' embankment, unable to get out and another facing the wrong way on the road.

  Emergency crews are en route to the scene. Use extra caution if in that area.

Butte Fire Update: Add 10 more homes burned

   As of September 20, 2015 at 7:20 PM, Cal Fire had increased containment of the Butte Fire to 72%.

   The number of homes lost had also increased to 545, 10 more than from the morning report.  We still have not been able to get them to release Amador and Calaveras County losses separately.

No more redwoods--no more oaks!!

Supervisor Edson says they take up too much water!
They have to go!! Every one! It'll stop those fires, too!

Calf on roadway in Farmington

   September 20, 2015 at 6:50 PM:  A calf has been reported on Escalon Bellota Road and Hwy 4 in Farmington.

   Use extra caution in that area and do NOT tell the TROLL or his gal thief. Let's try and keep them under their rock.

New Fire at Old Gulch Road and Rocky Road

   September 20, 2015 at 6:35 PM:  A new fire has been reported at Old Gulch Road and Rocky Road near Fricot City and Sheep Ranch.

   Cal Fire is responding. Use caution if in the area.

Burglary in Mokelumne Hill

   On September 19, 2015 a resident on Hwy 26 in Mokelumne Hill reported a burglary and vandalism.

   A Calaveras Sheriff's deputy took a report.  This is in or near the fire area. There have been many reports of suspicious people and looters throughout the Butte Fire area.

Map of Butte Fire area

This is not completely up to date, but is readable. You can see that
most of the tragic Butte Fire ended up in Calaveras County.

Fricot City Road and Sheep Ranch open with ID

   Access to Rite of Passage is now available due to the Fricot City Road and Sheep Ranch Road being open with ID.

    Apparently Murray Creek Road is now open with ID although CHP will be roving in the area.

Total Devastation: Butte Fire in Calaveras County

Butte Fire Update--More homes added to lost

   As of September 20, 2015 at 7:50 AM, the Butte Fire is listed with 70,760 acres and containment at 70%. Good news.

   The bad news is that more and more homes are added each day to the total losses in this fire. While the county refuses to tell us the total in Calaveras (for our own good, they say), the new total for the Butte Fire overall is now 535 homes, 347 outbuildings and 41 other structures destroyed.

Best-selling author Jackie Collins dies

   Jackie Collins, sister of Joan Collins and best-selling author about the underside of Hollywood, passed away late yesterday of breast cancer.  She was 77.

49ers play Steelers today

   Coming off a win, the 49ers today take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, for their 2nd game of the official NFL season.

   Go get 'em Niners! The game is on FOX at 10 AM.

Overturned car on Hwy 88

  September 20, 2015 at 6 AM:  A car reportedly overturned on Hwy 88 near Hams Station.

   The westbound lanes are currently blocked due to the car on its side and an air ambulance landing to take one patient with major injuries. 

Car hits child on Hwy 26

   September 19, 2015 at 4:45 PM:  A vehicle has reportedly hit a child pedestrian at Hwy 26 and Humbug Creek Road in the Glencoe area.

   Hwy 26 and Deardorff Road are closed for ambulance access. Stay clear of the area if you can.

Fricot City, Sheep Ranch area residents can return

   Residents who can prove they live there, can return to their homes and leave again in the Fricot City, Sheep Ranch area.

   Be sure to carry your ID, so you can get in and check on your property.

Closure on Murray Creek Road

   Apparently 5-6 PG&E trucks are working on Murray Creek Road, trying to restore power and they need to close the road.

   The roadway is blocked until the crews are finished with their work in the area.

Traffic collision in Ebbetts Pass

   September 19, 2015 at 3:15 PM:  A Ford Ranger has run off Ramsey Road at Hwy 4 and got stuck in the ditch.

   No injuries were reported. Use caution if in the area until a tow truck can pull it out.

How many homes lost in CALAVERAS?

  For days now, the SierraSentinel.com has been asked by readers why numbers for the number of homes burned in the Butte Fire have only been for both

Burglary in San Andreas

   On September 18, 2015 a burglary was reported by a resident on Pope Street in San Andreas.

   The Calaveras Sheriff's Office took a report of the incident.

Arrest for starting fire in West Point

   On September 17, 2015 around 11 AM a call was received and a person was arrested for starting a fire on Barney Way in West Point.

    No other details are known at this point.

Burglary in Murphys

  On September 19, 2015 around 11:35 AM a burglary was reported by a resident on Murphys Grade Road in Murphys.

   The Calaveras Sheriff took a report of the incident.

Disturbance at Rim Trail in Arnold

   On September 18, 2015 around 9:50 AM a disturbance was reported on the Rim Trail at Meadowmont Way in Arnold.

   Details of the disturbance isn't know, but the Calaveras Sheriff took no report. We have been told that there are angry people regarding the Rim Trail becoming the Rim Freeway to stop the Butte Fire.

West Point man arrested for Firearms

   On September 17, 2015 around 1:55 PM the Calaveras Sheriff's department arrested Clive Benjamin Gibbings III (42) of West Point,

Big rig on fire on Hwy 99

   September 19, 2015 at 2 PM:  A big rig is reportedly on fire after colliding with two small vehicles on Hwy 99 at Hwy 120 in Manteca.

   An ambulance and tow truck have been dispatched. Traffic is backed up as a result of the collision.  Be extra cautious if in that area.

Possible looters reported....

   CHP has reported two empty pickups (they got the license plate numbers) entering the fire area off Hwy 49 and leaving full.

   The Calaveras Sheriff's Office was notified of possible looters. There have been many reports.

Fatal Traffic Collision on Hwy 4

   According to CHP, on September 18, 2015 around 8:45 PM Robert Boardman (67) of Los Altos was in a 1976 Fiat, travelling east on Hwy 4, just east of Northwood Drive in the

What Resolution appointed Supervisor Edson head of OES?

  We are aware that when Clay Hawkins was appointed to run the Office of Emergency Services, it was by Resolution of the Calaveras Board of Supervisors. Also in Amador

Three vehicle collision on Hwy 49

   September 19, 2015 at 10:10 AM:  A three vehicle collision has been reported on Hwy 49 at Carol Kennedy Drive, near the Calaveras Airport.

   No injuries have been indicated but vehicles are blocking the roadway. Use extra caution until CHP is able to clear.

Brian Moss: Boil your water!!

   According to a Press Release by Brian Moss at the Calaveras CAO's office, you must continue boiling your water, if service was disrupted by the Butte Fire.

   In Sheep Ranch, for example, CCWD lost their lines and had to reconnect them due to damage done as a result of the fire.  Residents MUST now boil their water, per Moss. 

DO NOT CALL the Sheriff: For check on family members

 Another Press Release:

     We have have had hundreds of people tell us that they have family members now missing, from the burn area of Calaveras County's Butte Fire.

   When the Calaveras Sheriff's Office set up a SEPARATE number

Butte Fire homes lost jumps to 503

    September 19, 2015 at 6:50 AM:  While the acreage burned during the Butte Fire remains around 70,000 the containment is now 65%.

   On the bad side, the number of homes destroyed has now grown to 503, outbuildings 330 and other structures at 47.

Butte Fire: Calaveras Supervisors Edson and Kearney faked that "everything was under control?" Red Cross Advertising??

   It was shocking to watch elected officials drag out all kinds of people to talk about how everything is perfectly under control during the Butte Fire during their so-called "community meetings"..

   As soon as the public was ALLOWED to ask questions, Edson told the cameras to stop

PIckup vs Power Pole in Ione

   September 19, 2015 at 6:30 AM   CHP is now clearing a 2 AM traffic collision where a pickup hit a power pole at Jackson Valley Road and Martin Lane in Ione.

   No injuries were reported, but traffic was backed up until PG&E was able to dispatch a crew and upright the pole.  The roadway is now clear.

Calaveras County Water District demands emergency funds for Butte Fire

   The Calaveras County Water District (CCWD) will hold their regular meeting on September 23, 2015 at 9 AM in their Board Room on Toma Court in San Andreas.

   On the agenda already is a claim emergency for re-imbursement of funds to repair damage done by the Butte Fire.

Cal Fire calls for Butte Fire Community Meetings

     On Monday, September 21, 2015 at 7 PM the Butte Fire Incident Management Team will be holding a community meeting at the Pine Grove Town Hall

What happened to Clay Hawkins??

  During the debacle that should have been the Office of Emergency Services taking care of all the problems during the Butte Fire, several people remember a man named Clay Hawkins, who was at one time head of the Office of Emergency Services

Pretending to be Cal Fire contractors

      Law enforcement blocking the closed roadways are actually seeing people with what appear to be phony markings on the side without ID, trying to get into the fire areas.

   Fortunately, CHP continues to send them away. Could be looters or worse. Cal Fire assures CHP these are NOT Cal Fire contractors.

Sheriff Kuntz says he's just not "UP" for this!!

   Apparently Calaveras Sheriff Gary Kuntz feels abused, and says he's just not "up" for this Office of Emergency Services stuff since the Butte Fire.

Traffic collision in Plymouth

   September 18, 2015 at 1:30 PM:  A traffic collision has been reported on Hwy 124 near Hwy 16 in Plymouth.

   Emergency vehicles are responding. Use extra care if in the area.

Many attempts to get into Butte Fire area --Thank you CHP

We have seen CHP be consistent and
diligent in keeping out those who
don't belong in the Butte Fire area.

   We have seen many reported attempts to gain access to the Butte Fire area, especially those areas that remain in the fire zone; often looters or other criminals, using the fire to help themselves to peoples belongings.

   Thanks to CHP, few have made it; but they continue the attempts, saying they are workers or firemen, etc. At least CHP is helping residents keep their property safe.

   A big thank you to CHP in Calaveras County.

Office of Emergency Services in Calaveras County

   The person IN CHARGE of the Office of Emergency Services for the Butte Fire is Sheriff Gary Kuntz.

   He can be reached at 209-754-6500, which is dispatch and a business line for the Sheriff.

Mountain Ranch Road opens to Senders Market

   Apparently Mountain Ranch Road has just been reopened to Senders Market in Mountain Ranch. Lower Michel Road is also now open.

   It had been closed most of this week due to the Butte Fire.  Use caution in the area.

Angels Camp lifts evacuation orders

  September 18, 2015 at 10:55 AM:   The Angels Camp Police Department has lifted all evacuation orders, sent out due to the Butte Fire.

Code Enforcement stopped at roadblocks

   We just heard a rumor that Todd Barr and Courtney Minehart have been stopped in their civilian trucks at a road block in the Old Gulch area of the Butte Fire.

   Apparently they flashed their Calaveras County ID cards and were finally allowed through. Code enforcement is enforcing codes?

Cows on Hwy 120

   September 18, 2015 at 10:30 AM:  Five cows have been reported on Hwy 120 at Ferretti Road in Groveland.

   CHP is trying to locate the owners, but be careful if driving in that area.

Tour Bus smoking in Ione

   September 18, 2015 at 10:15 AM:  A tour bus is reportedly pulled over on Hwy 88 at Blue Sky Drive in Ione, with smoke coming out of the windows.

   Fire personnel are en route to the scene. Use caution if in that area.

National Guard and PG&E working on Old Gulch Road

    We just learned that at Old Gulch Road and Rocky Road, traffic is blocking the roadway. It isn't totally closed, but National Guard and large PG&E trucks are working, parked along the side of the road.

   Be extra careful anywhere in the Butte Fire area, as fire crews continue to mop up and PG&E is attempting to restore power.

Cal Fire's Daniel Berlant / Auburn City Council

   Highly respected in Sacramento as Cal Fire's Chief Information Officer, Daniel seems to be everywhere during fire season; and when isn't it fire season in California?

   Daniel lives and grew up in Auburn, where he is now a hard-working City Council member. Daniel is good at his job of press releases and interviews, because he seems to really care and relates to how fire victims feel; he's a genuinely nice man.

Cave City Road blocked

   September 18, 2015 at 8:20 AM:  We just learned that Cave City Road in the Sheep Ranch/Fricot area is blocked.

   We don't have details of what is blocking the roadway at this time. Stay clear until CHP ok's it for traffic.

Butte Fire claims 365 homes

   Cal Fire has updated the number for the Butte Fire, and the number of homes has grown, tragically, to 365, with 261 outbuildings and 20 other structures destroyed.

   The acreage burned is still around 70,000 and containment is now 60%.  Many fire ravaged areas are still closed in Calaveras County.

Warning to locals: Price gouging!

   This morning on KCRA 3 they ran a story showing one gas station in Calaveras County lowering prices for one day. However:

  . The story they were really doing was about complaints the State of California is getting about price gouging by some as yet unnamed businesses in or around the Butte Fire area.

   It is illegal to raise prices more than 10% after a disaster. If you feel you are being what they call "gouged" report it to the state. Channel 3 is also going to follow up on this, so you might tell them about it.

Calaveras County Schools will reopen

   With the exception of West Point and Railroad Flat, all schools in Calaveras County, whose families have been horrendously affected by the Butte Fire, will reopen on Monday September 21, 2015.

    If your children attend West Point or Railroad Flat Elementary Schools call the office for when they will be able to open their doors.

Don't drink the WATER!!

   UPDATE on September 18, 2015 at 10:45 AM:  Per CCWD the only people whose water was disrupted by the Butte Fire was

Can't you read the sign?

Guess bears in Kodiak Alaska don't like rules!

Traffic Collision in Mokelumne Hill

   September 17, 2015 at 4:35 PM:  A traffic collision has been reported on Hwy 26 and Happy Valley Road in Mokelumne Hill.

   Emergency personnel is en route to the scene. Use extra caution if in that area.

   

Looters reported in all fire areas...Where are out of area cops now??

   Sadly, it seems that every day we hear of more reports of looters in the Butte Fire affected areas of Calaveras County.

   We just learned one was reported on Whiskey Slide Road and Murray Creek Road.  Now this is what the Calaveras Sheriff should have used all those out of area cops for. Protecting evacuees property.

Should all P G & E lines go underground??

   Now that PG&E is stating that one of the overheard transmission lines may have been the cause of the Butte Fire's start, the question is; why aren't they putting lines underground?

   When we asked that question of PG&E,

Lake County deaths climb

   According to the Lake County Sheriff's Office, two more bodies have been found in the burn area of the Valley Fire.

    The two found are men. This brings the total death toll to three so far.

Car over the side near Frogtown

    September 17, 2015 at 3:40 PM:  A car has reportedly gone over the side off Hwy 49 not far from Frogtown outside Angels Camp.

    CHP and other emergency personnel are responding to the scene.

Calaveras Redskins refuse to change?

   A bill to ban the Redskins name for mascots, etc. from public schools is now on the Governors desk.

   It's way past time for this. Sign the bill, Governor Brown.  Calaveras Redskins should have changed their name willingly long ago.

Vehicle Theft arrest in San Andreas

   On September 15, 2015 around 1:30 PM Courtney Martina Begay (24) of San Andreas (unknown address)  was arrested of West St. Charles Street..

   Begay was booked into the Calaveras County Jail for alleged Vehicle Theft, a Felony.

Terrorizing threat arrest and guns in Glencoe

   On September 16, 2015 around 12:30 PM Calaveras Sheriff's deputies arrested David Searcy (57) of Glencoe, near his residence on Sandy Gulch Lane.

   Searcy was booked into the Calaveras County Jail for allegedly Threatening a crime with the Intent to Terrorize, a felony and for Interfering with Fire and other emergency personnel, and two counts of carrying a firearm in a vehicle, misdemeanors.

Firearms arrest in Mountain Ranch

   On September 16, 2015 around 12:50 PM Calaveras Sheriff's deputies arrested Kimberly Deanne DeCriscio (54) of Mountain Ranch, at her home on Wendell Road.

   DeCriscio was booked into the Calaveras County Jail for allegedly being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and being in Violation of Probation, both Felonies.

Disturbances at road Blockades in Calaveras County--Butte Fire

   While the Calaveras Sheriff appears to be arresting or "5150'ing" the poor residents who want to go check on their homes, why is this such a mixed up county?

   Apparently CHP has Michel Road blocked,

I would be irate too!! You're ON YOUR OWN in Calaveras!!

  September 17, 2015 at 12 Noon:  After days of not knowing what happened to your home and being homeless but for a cot in a big building, residents want to go and see what is left for them in Calaveras County.

Additional Road Closures due to Butte Fire

   Cal Fire has issued additional road closure information for Calaveras County, as of September 17, 2015 at 10 AM.

   Included are:  Ponderosa Road at the burned area?,

Calaveras County's Butte fire victims feeling "jerked around"?

   In the past 24 hours, the press in the Butte Fire area has received all kinds of press releases trying to get people to call a wide variety of phone numbers,

Amador County Office of Emergency Services warns of power outage and food

   The Amador County Office of Emergency Services has issued a warning to residents moving back into homes that had been without power to throw out any food.

   They warn that even previously frozen food can be a danger to our health if it went without refrigeration, so be careful out there.

    IF IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT!!!

Air attack continues on Butte Fire

Tankers like this one, are
a great help in the
fire wars in California.

   Air attack continues on the Butte Fire in Calaveras County. Hopefully, they can bring the containment levels up with continued air attacks.

  

Mountain Ranch Road backed up with Fire trucks

   September 17, 2015 at 8:50 AM:  We just received a report that many fire engines are backed up at Mountain Ranch Road and Hwy 49, trying to get out of the fire area.

   CHP is en route to assist them in getting onto Hwy 49, where they will possibly be heading for Frogtown to rest and eat.

Butte Fire still less that 50% contained?

   As of September 17, 2015 at 7:50 AM Cal Fire has the Butte Fire at 49% contained with 70,760 destroyed.

   With 252 homes destroyed, 188 outbuildings destroyed and 17 other structures lost, there area reportedly 6400 homes still threatened in Calaveras and Amador counties. 

Butte Fire victims will need a giant PHONE BOOK--people have died, Sheriff Kuntz!!

   September 17, 2015 at 6:45 AM:  Over the past 24 hours, it seems that the Calaveras County offices have issued numerous press releases, supposedly giving victims of the Butte Fire a PHONE BOOK of numbers to call for help. 

     That is, instead of a main number who should then refer people, that of the Sheriff's Office at 209-754-6500.

Butte Fire Update

   As of 5 PM on September 16, 2015 the Butte Fire has burned 71.780 acres and is 45% contained.

   The total number of homes burned is now reported to be 233 in addition to 175 outbuildings and 15 other structures.

Certain Senders Market employees allowed in fire area?

     Certain employees of Senders Hardware and Market are reportedly allowed into the fire area, according to CHP.  A list of them is available.

   The Butte communications line says that no fire personnel are allowed in without proper ID on them. Vehicles must also be clearly identified.

Firefighters lose their homes too!

   Mostly due to the explosive Valley Fire in Lake County, altogether eight CalFire firefighters have lost their homes due to this years massive fires.

   Most were battling other fires while their own home burned to the ground.  A firefighters association is getting a collection going for them and their families.

Saramento County passes BBQ permit requirement

   Due to the continual problem with fires often caused by people cooking along the American River Parkway the Board of Supervisors has passed a new law that you cannot BBQ or cook or start any fire in any regional campgrounds without a permit.

   It is hoped this will stem the number of fires the personnel is always having to put out in that long stretch of parkway.

Two die in Butte Fire in Calaveras County

   So far, it looks like two of our residents have died in the horrendous blazes of the Butte Fire.

Animal Services is in the Butte Fire area

   Today the Calaveras Animal Services truck headed out to the Butte Fire area, driving throughout the fire area, searching for lost or injured pets and wildlife.

    Hopefully they are successful in discovering some of the pets that had to be abandon during the mandatory evacuations.  Be sure and call 754-6509 if you are missing a pet.

Railroad Flat Road stays closed

   Railroad Flat Road toward Mountain Ranch will have to stay closed for now due to damage.

   Rocky Road out of Calaveritas has no place to turn around. These are some of the problems they are  having in trying to reopen the roads in Calaveras County after the Butte Fire.

How to call Office of Emergency Services in Calaveras County

   The Office of Emergency Services is a California state agency, which is responsible for overseeing and coordinating emergency preparedness and response for and recovery after emergencies. 

   Each county in the state has a local office

More looting suspected in Mountain Ranch

   As has happened regularly since the Calaveras Sheriff (Office of Emergency Services) forced a mandatory evacuation in the Butte Fire, with no plan to protect the properties from looting, another suspect was reported this morning.

   This time is was on Wendell in Mountain Ranch where the suspicious behavior was reported. We aren't sure which law enforcement agency, if any, is even investigating these reports.  There are tracks on Wendell, per a witness.

Hwy 26 re-opens at Mokelumne Hill

   September 16, 2015 at 10:55 AM:  CHP has been told they can re-open Hwy 26 at Mokelumne Hill to Hwy 88.

    It has been closed for nearly a week, due to the Butte Fire.

Overturned vehicle-pinned in on Hwy 49

   September 16, 2015 at 10:45 AM:  A blue KIA Sorrento has rolled off Hwy 49 at Hwy 108 and into a ditch in Jamestown. The driver is pinned in.

   A tow truck and ambulance have been dispatched to the scene. Use extra caution if in the area.

Suspect in Moke HIll selling fire equipment?

   September 16, 2015 at 10:35 AM:  An LA Fire crew reported to CHP that a suspect on Sandy Gulch appears to be selling fire equipment.

   It was reported that he was wearing a sidearm near Hwy 26 at a residence.  It is very smoky in the area.

Green vehicle into the oleanders on Hwy 99

   September 16, 2015 at 9:50 AM:  A green TransAm type vehicle is reportedly into the oleander bushes on northbound 99 at the Hatch exit.

   No injuries have been indicated. A tow truck is responding to the scene. Use extra caution if in that area.

Overturned car on Hwy 99

   September 16, 2015 at 9:50 AM:  A car is on its roof on northbound  Hwy 99 near Tuolumne Boulevard in Modesto.

   An ambulance was dispatched since there was a baby in the vehicle.  Use extra caution if in that area.

Jackson Planning Commission meets in Amador County

   The Jackson City Planning Commission in Amador County will meet Monday September 21, 2015 at 6:30 PM at Jackson City Hall.

   On the agenda is a variance for Scott and Cheryl Oneto on Spunn Road to construct a retaining wall in the 5 foot setback.

If you were forced out without your animals....

One mountain lion cub just like
this one, was found with burns
and taken to a rescue center.

   For those of you who were ordered to mandatory evacuate during the Butte Fire and didn't get to take your animals, apparently there are many of you.

   If you are in Calaveras County, call Animal Services

Some crews sent to Valley Fire

   September 16, 2015 at 8:45 AM:  You can tell things are better this morning in the Butte Fire because the skies are mostly blue and its cooler than its been in a long time.

   Another sign of improvement is that some engine companies are being pulled off the Butte Fire and sent to the Valley Fire.

Traffic collision in Angels Camp

The traffic backed up was mostly
fire vehicles due to this crash.

   September 16, 2015 at 8:10 AM:  A traffic collision has been reported at Hwy 49 and Copello Drive in Angels Camp.

   A fire vehicle is on scene, checking on injuries.  Use extra caution if in that area.

Crash at Phoenix Lake--driver runs

   September 16, 2015 at 7 AM:  The driver of a car that crashed on Phoenix Lake Road near the golf course, took off (they call it leg-bailed) across the golf course.

   There are no plates on the vehicle, per caller. A tow truck is being dispatched. Use extra caution if in the area.

House fire in West Point

   UPDATE: Addition resources are being used to prevent fire from spreading any more into the forest. One watertender was ordered to return to base.

Danger in Railroad Flat fire area

   September 16, 2015 at 6:20 AM:  What the Calaveras Office of Emergency Services does NOT say is that a tree fell on Hawver Road overnight, near Doster Road in the Railroad Flat area of the Butte Fire.

Overturned car in Vallecito

   September 16, 2015 at 6:10 AM:  A blue car has overturned on Camp Nine Bypass Road at Parrotts Ferry Road in Vallecito.

    Use extra caution in that area as emergency vehicles arrive at the scene. Fortunately no injuries were reported in this crash.

Calaveras Sheriff's Office--Office of Emergency Services Press Release?

   Sheriff Gary Kuntz (Office of Emergency Services for Calaveras County) has, we believe, finally released information on  a couple of updates on road closures in the Butte Fire. We do hesitate to publish it, because it is very confusing and we don't want to mislead anyone about their homes.

49ers look GREAAT!!

   It's hard to think about enjoying the football games when this fire is destroying our beautiful county.

   However, our super 49ers did win handily last night against the Vikings! Kaepernick is looking better than ever. 20-3 the final score.

Why did the Tortoise cross the road?

   September 15, 2015 at 6:20 PM:  It has been reported  that a large tortoise just crossed Santa Fe Avenue at Franklin Road in Merced.

   Animal control and CHP have been notified. If you lost your tortoise, you better get out there and collect him before someone hits him with a car.

   So why did the tortoise cross the road?  He;s lost??
  

Sheriff Kuntz happy to help Butte Fire victims

   We were just told unofficially that apparently Sheriff Kuntz is so happy to be able to give his personal attention to the voters who re-elected him just a few months ago, that he hopes everyone calls his office or cell to get the information they need about the Butte Fire.

   The Office of Emergency Services for Calaveras County is Sheriff Gary Kuntz, and no other. He loves the job and is right on top of all information that he should be, like details of houses burned, power outages, etc.

   He doesn't want anyone to hesitate to call him when they need to know what is going on while this horrendous Butte Fire is ongoing.  See next article for his numbers.

Suddenly Sheriff Kuntz takes over Calaveras County Office of Emergency Services

  UPDATE:  We have been told that the Calaveras Sheriff's main number 209-754-6500 doesn't want to be bothered by OES calls. We aren't sure why, since its on their main website. And the county website says nothing anyone needs to know.

   Therefore, we are certain that Sheriff Kuntz will be happy to help citizens who cannot get information to call another number we've been given for him which is 209-754-6552 or even his cell number of 209-256-6184.

We are sure the Sheriff truly wants to help everyone, so if the dispatchers at the main number are mean to you or disinterested, be sure to make a complaint to him.

No one will answer questions?

    To say that the Butte Fire emergency was not well-handled by Calaveras County officials is putting it way too mildly. For example:

 There was what Cal Fire officials called a disturbance

Butte Fire Update--Too many secrets!!

  As of 2 PM on September 15, 2015 the Butte Fire is listed at 71,780 acres and is 40% contained.

   166 homes, 116 outbuildings and 12 other structures have been destroyed. Information is very difficult to come by. We've never seen anything with so many secrets being held.  Why?

Summit Level Road stays closed

   As of 3 PM Summit Level Road is closed in Arnold. We have tried to get more information about how close the fire is, to no avail.

   We totally understand how the public feels and even residents of burned out areas. No one wants to tell anyone anything.  Secrets are not good for a democracy. Hopefully it will affect the next election cycle.

Wanna hitch a ride?

Mama gives her cubs a ride at Katmai in Alaska

Motorycle collision near Chinese Camp

   UPDATE:  A tow truck has been dispatched to pickup the three wheeled motorcycle. One of its wheels is now missing.

Traffic collision on Hwy 49

   September 15, 2015 at 11:55 AM:  A traffic collision has just been reported on Hwy 49 at Lombardi Drive in Mokelumne Hill.

   Emergency vehicles are responding to the scene. Use extra caution if in that area.

Shasta Fire Truck Missing in Action?

   We just received information that a Shasta Fire Truck has gone missing in the Butte Fire. If anyone sees a fire truck engine with Shasta on the side, call 754-6500 or 911 for CHP.

   Hopefully, they are just lost on some of the back roads of Calaveras County. We'll let you know if we hear they are found.

Photo of Sheep Ranch ridge on fire--Butte Fire

This photo, taken by Joel Metzger of CCWD, taken a couple of days ago,
would frighten anyone within 10 miles!!  This is a ridge
 in Sheep Ranch, taken from a hill in Murphys, Calaveras County!

Arson reported in San Andreas

   On September 12, 2015 around 11 AM the Calaveras Sheriff received a call of Arson on West Murray Creek Road and Mills Road in San Andreas.

     According to the Sheriff's log, they took no report of the incident. Very interesting.

Mountain Ranch Road re-opens

   As of September 15, 2015 at 7:45 AM Mountain Ranch Road is reportedly reopen at Calaveritas.

  We aren't sure if that means Calaveritas Road is open yet, but good news for Mountain ranch residents. We will follow reports this morning.

Drive Carefully

   If you are attempting to get back to normal and go to work this morning, drive slowly as the roadways are wet in most of the foothills.

   Grateful for the rain, no one is complaining, but you do not want to have a traffic accident due to the wet conditions. Another rain system is due in tomorrow, September 16, 2015; just what our
forests need.

CHP will be stationed in Butte Fire area

  CHP officers will be stationed this morning in White Pines at Summit Level Road, at Hwy 26 and the Mokelumne River Bridge and on Gold Strike Road at Leonard in San Andreas for the Butte Fire.

  Be avoid those areas where roads remain closed.

Valley Fire in Lake County grows

  As of 9:45 PM on September 14, 2015 the Valley Fire in Lake County was 62,000 acres and was only 10% contained.

   585 homes and hundred of other structures have been destroyed so far in this fire. Four firefighters have been injured and one civilian has died as a result of this fire.

Butte Fire UPDATE

  As of 9:30 PM on September 14, 2015 these areas of Calaveras County residents on Gold Strike Road in San Andreas were allowed to return to their homes.

   Leonard Road in San Andreas, however, remains closed to residents.

   Total acreage burned in the Butte Fire now stands at 71,523 with a 35% containment. 166 homes have been destroyed, 116 outbuildings (barns, etc.) and 12 other structures.

Rain,Rain! Wonderful rain!

Please, Mother Nature! Put out these fires!
No one else seems to be able to!

Car off road into ditch

    UPDATE at 8:50 PM:  No injuries were indicated in this collision.

Closure on Sheep Ranch Road changed

   September 14, 2015 at 7:35 PM:  Cal Fire has requested that  the closure of Sheep Ranch Road be moved from Fullen Road and Sheep Ranch to Avery Sheep Ranch Road and Sheep Ranch Road.

   CHP is complying with the request. Now, however,it is raining in the area. A pretty steady rain, in fact. We'll see what happens.

Fire on China Gulch in Mokelumne Hill

   September 14, 2015 at 7:30 PM:  A report has been received that the fire has started up again on China Gulch Road in Mokelumne Hill again.

   Cal Fire working in the Butte Fire is responding.

Burning tree down on Mountain Ranch Road

   September 14, 2015 at 6 PM:  A burning tree has been reported down on Mountain Ranch Road above Senders Market in the Butte Fire.

   A crew has been requested to respond to that location.  If they can find one free.

Ebbetts Pass Forest Watch cancels events

  Ebbetts Pass Forest Watch has cancelled their events for this month, including the Film Festival and the picnic due to the devastating Butte Fire.

    We are sharing a letter from Supervisor Chris Wright

Emergency FREE water fill stations

Photo taken from ridgetop in
Murphys of a ridge near
Sheep Ranch.

      We were just informed that CCWD has opened three emergency water fill stations in Calaveras County for those members of the community who have been affected by the Butte Fire. 

          If you have questions,

Fatal Collision on Hwy 4 in Copperopolis

   According to the CHP report on September 12, 2015 around 5:50 PM a 48 year old man from Antioch was driving a 2005 Nissan northbound on Obyrnes Ferry Road

What a beautiful majestic creature

A real man will go out into the mountains armed only with a camera!
These magnificent creatures make living in the Sierras worthwhile!
Only true cowards could use a gun or photograph an innocent animal
that was killed by human predators!

 

New spot fire on HIdden Valley Road

   September 14, 2015 at 3:25 PM:  A new spot fire has been reported on Hidden Valley Road in West Point due to the Butte Fire.

   Firefighters are continuing to lose homes in that area, and spot fires shoot ahead of where they are working regularly. 

Elderly woman killed in Valley Fire

 UPDATE: We learned that the elderly woman who died in the Valley Fire was a retired schoolteacher. Very said to hear.

     Apparently a couple of people were concerned about her,

Planning Commissioners Lose Money

     Making it clear that they are not happy about losing the money they receive for each meeting they attend at the Planning Commission meetings, Calaveras County has cancelled their special meeting for this week, September 17, 2015 sue to the Butte Fire.

   They have been holding "special meetings" each week, they say, to discuss the General Plan Update, which is now nearly 20 years old.  Poor babies!  We think they'll survive!

OP-ED: De-Forestation of Tree population affects Climate Change & weather-- Less Trees, Less water

"These nasty Redwoods
have GOT TO GO! Do
you know how much water
they retain?" says a Calaveras
Supervisor..

   Since the world began being controlled by the deforestation corporations in the world, there are 46% less trees. Could this be part of the cause of Climate Change?

Calaveras Sheriff: West Point evacuations

   As of September 14, 2015 at 2:15 PM mandatory evacuations are in place for Woodhouse Mine Road, Stanley Road and Rabbit Foot Road in West Point.

   Please leave immediately. The fire is in your area.

Schools closed due to Butte Fire

   Calaveras County is used to having 'snow' days off, but now we are having 'fire' days. Both Calaveras Unified and Bret Harte Unified are closed until Wednesday, September 16, 2015.

  Mark Twain Elementary and Vallecito Districts are also closed until Wednesday. If you are unsure about your school, check with the district office.

Calaveras Sheriff: West Point still evacuated

   As of September 14, 2015 at 2:05 PM the Calaveras Sheriff indicates mandatory evacuations are still in effect for Upper Dorray Road all the way to West Point in the Butte Fire.

   Please do not attempt to enter West Point by this road.  Stay out of the area until Cal Fire says its ok to go back in.

Motorcycle crash in Jamestown

   September 14, 2015 at 2 PM:  A motorcycle has reportedly crashed on Hwy 59 at Old Don Pedro Road in Jamestown.

   Emergency personnel are en route to the scene. Use extra caution if in that area.

In Seattle: Teachers strike for four days

   Now people can see what is wrong with the teachers union, not to mention other unions such as the POSTALS unions.

   Teachers in Seattle have been on strike since day 1 of the new school year!  Hard to believe.

Fire in Ione

   September 14, 2015 at 1:30 PM:  A fire has been reported on Jackson Valley Road near the Oaks in the Jackson area..
     Fire personnel are en route to the scene. This is just below Camanche Road near Pardee Reservoir.

Boy Scout Troop 302 taking donations for fire victims

   In Valley Springs, Boy Scout Troop 302 will be taking donations for the victims of the Butte Fire tonight at the Veterans Hall.

  Items needed are protein energy bars, toilet paper, and non-perishable foods. Please, no clothing or household items.

Fire grows along Mountain Ranch Road

   After damping down a bit overnight, the Butte Fire has picked up and is spreading in the Mountain Ranch Road area on Hidden Valley, above San Andreas.

   With the additional forces arriving from all over the state and even outside the state, they hope to gain containment within 24 hours.

Calaveras Local Agency Formation Commision meets

   Calaveras LAFCO will hold their regular monthly meeting on Monday September 21, 2015 at 6 PM in San Andreas Board of Supervisors Chambers.

Caltrans officially closes Hwy 26

    Caltrans has sent a notice officially closing Hwy 26 from Lafayette Street in Mokelumne Hill, Calaveras County,  to the Amador County line.

   This is due to damage done by the Butte Fire and will remain in place until Wednesday September 16, 2015.

Barn Fire in Plymouth

   September 14, 2015 at 11:40 AM:  A 2-story barn fire was reported on Bush Street in Plymouth, but by the time a crew arrived the owners had put the fire out themselves.

   The Fire Department is investigating the fire.

Air Quality Improves in Amador and Calaveras

   September 14, 2015 at 11:30 AM:  The air quality in both Amador and Calaveras counties has improved today, after days of smoke and ash.

   If containment improves in the Butte Fire, maybe the areas can try to get somewhat back to normal.

Friends of the Fair meeting cancelled

   The September Friends of the Fair meeting scheduled for September 16, 2015 has been cancelled.

   We will let you know when the October meeting is scheduled.

49ers take on Vikings tonight

   Monday Night Football returns tonight, September 14, 2015 at 7 PM on ESPN, with the San Francisco taking on the Minnesota Vikings at Levi Stadium in Santa Clara.

  This is the first official game for the Niners of the 2015-16 season. Go Niners! Oh, does anyone want to hear what happened to the Raiders yesterday?

Did you think LOOTING was just for big cities??

   Although we saw two arrests on September 13, 2015, we hear many more reports of looting or possible looting in the evacuated areas, especially

Butte Fire isn't over yet!

    UPDATE:  Air attack of the Butte Fire is now resuming.

Burglary arrest at Meadowmont Shopping Center

   On Sunday September 13, 2015 while all the businesses in the Meadowmont Shopping Center were apparently closed, the Calaveras Sheriff arrested Conner Avery White (25) of Arnold.

    White was booked into the Calaveras County Jail for alleged 2nd Degree Burglary, a felony.

Burglary arrest on Pope in San Andreas

  We aren't sure if this is related to the looting that has been reported due to evacuations in the Butte Fire, but on September 12, 2015 the Calaveras Sheriff arrested Mychael Deshawn Pope (30) with no known address, on Pope Street in San Andreas.

    Pope was booked into the Calaveras County Jail for alleged First Degree Burglary, a felony.

Valley Fire in Lake County Update

   September 14, 2015 at 8 AM:  Cal Fire now has the number of homes lost so far in the Valley Fire in Lake County in the hundreds, and hundreds of outbuildings destroyed.

   No official number is now listed. It seems they cannot keep up with the number of structures, because they are going up in flames so quickly. Hopefully the National Guard will help.

Butte Fire Update

   As of September 14, 2015 at 7:55 AM:  The Butte Fire is now officially 71,063 acres and is 30% contained.

    After a more detailed investigation, it was found that 135 homes, 79 outbuildings and 4 other structures have been destroyed.

Possible new fire in West Point

  UPDATE at 7:50 AM:  Crews from the Butte Fire responded to the scene, in addition to local fire crews. 

   Another call was received of a slightly different location and a local engine has been dispatched to that location.

SPI already eyes Calaveras Timber

  We've had several reports that SPI has sent many vehicles (FORESTER, they're called) into the fire area to find out how much money they will make from clearing the timber from the Butte Fire area.

   This is the SPI we all know and despise. Money, money, money is all they care about. People lost their homes, and good old SPI, they're right on top of things, searching out more ways to make money for the Emmersons.

   Most have trouble believing that SPI bulldozers used by Cal Fire were for anything but dragging in logging roads for them use after the fire.

National Guard called out for Valley Fire in Lake County

   This morning we learned that the Governor has called out the National Guard for the devastating Valley Fire in Lake County.

   They have already lost 50,000 acres with 0% containment and 400 structures have already been destroyed.  One person has also reportedly died in this fire.

  

Butte Fire 25% contained 135 homes burned

   While the Butte Fire got help from the rain in the Ebbetts Pass area last night, other areas continue to be under threat.

   The Butte Fire is now 25% contained and the acreage has not been changed from around 65,000, but the news is not good for homeowners in the Butte Fire, as 135 residences, 79 outbuildings and 4 other structures have been destroyed so far.

Mokelumne Hill Residents allowed back homel

   Most Angels Camp residents and also Mokelumne Hill residents of the downtown area, were  allowed back home late last night.

Thank you Mother Nature!

      It is raining in Ebbetts Pass! Real rain! For the first time in how many months?

   Thank you, Mother Nature, for putting an end to this miserable Butte Fire!

   It smells and feels wonderful!

Two on dirt bikes may be looting

   September 13, 2015 at 4:55 PM:  The Calaveras Sheriff was called after it was reported that two males on dirt bikes are one Sheep Ranch Road and possibly looting.

    A deputy responded to the area. We don't have details on results yet.

Tan pickup with FIRE written on it

   A person with a tan pickup with FIRE 13 painted on it has been going into fire areas illegally. This vehicle is NOT a legal fire vehicle.

   All CHP has been notified to detain the person if they show up at their intersection.

Residents allowed back in some Amador County areas

   September 13, 2015 at 3:25 PM:  Some residential streets have been reopened, just to residents with identification, in Amador County.

   Hwy 88 at Clinton, Tabeaud, Mt. Zion, and Irishtown will have an officer stationed, checking ID. Hwy 88 at Aquaduct and Hwy 26 at Mokelumne Hill exit are still completely closed.

Wind kicks up--more road closures

   Due to the wind kicking up after lunch today, Cal Fire has asked CHP to close Michel Road, Mountain Ranch Road, Cave City Road. Animal evacuation personnel are allowed but must be escorted.

   A rescue of some animals in the area is underway.  Just when things are looking better, something happens and the Butte Fire continues to expand. An additional unit has been requested by CHP due to a person they have detained.

Homes lost in Butte Fire updated

  September 13, 2015 at 1PM:  In the Butte Fire, after a recent on the ground survey, the number of homes lost so far has been adjusted from 86 to 81.

   The number of outbuildings remains the same at 51.

Backfiring at Rim Freeway working

   So far, the backfiring on the Butte Fire, done at the new Rim Freeway in Ebbetts Pass is working, due to the wind conditions being just right and the freeway being wide.

   We aren't out of the woods (so to speak) yet, however. If the wind changes anything could happen.

Angels Camp evacuation order downgraded to advisory

   Due to hard work by the firefighters on the Butte fire lines around Calaveritas and Fricot City, Angels Camp Police have downgraded their mandatory evacuation notice to advisory only.

   Residents of Altaville and businesses on Hwy 49 are very grateful to our men on the line.

Sprinkling of rain in Ebbetts Pass

  September 13, 2015 at 12 Noon:  It's not enough to put out the Butte Fire, but any sprinkling of rain in Ebbetts Pass is welcome.

   A downpour would be wonderful, but unlikely. We'll take what we can get.

Traffic collision at Hwy 4 and Hwy 49

  September 13, 2015 at 11:30 AM:  A traffic collision has been reported at Hwy 4 and Hwy 49 in Angels Camp.

   CHP and other emergency personnel are en route to the scene. Use extra care if in that area.

Calaveritas Road blocked

   CHP now has Calaveritas Road blocked off. No one but emergency vehicles, PG&E and insurance inspectors are allowed in that area, due to the Butte Fire

   Don't try to get around the CHP or whoever is blocking the roadway. It is for your own safety.

Butte Fire containment increases

   September 13, 2015 at 9:15 AM:  The Butte Fire is now listed at 65,215 acres and is 20% contained.

    The firefighters work to contain this fire in steep terrain, with heavy brush and timber. We are all grateful for them.

Valley Fire in Lake County

   September 13, 2015 at 9:10 AM:  While Calaveras County seems to be being destroyed by one fire, the Butte, Lake County has had three giant fires.

   The Valley Fire, which started around 1:30 PM on September 12, 2015 has grown to over 40,000 acres in less than 24 hours. Some have said they didn't know they had that much left to burn.