Week in Review: Toppled Tree, Fiscal Cliff, Bye-Bye Plastic Bags, Missing Woman

Missing Woman

Elizabeth Joy Wassei, 21, has been missing since Dec. 7. Wassei is an Amador Valley High graduate. According to her sister, borrowed the car to drive from the grandparents' home in Sonora to visit friends in Oakland on Dec. 7 and she has not been in contact with her family since. The family reported her missing on Dec. 23. She was last seen driving a 2002 red Cavalier sedan with a license plate of 4WCX408. Anyone with information about her is asked to call 925-989-1161.

Toppled Tree Blocked Valley Avenue

The Sunday rain led to a downed tree across Valley Avenue between Northway and Crestline. The huge tree smashed through a retaining wall, causing the road to be closed while city crews worked to chop up the redwood.

Fiscal Cliff

Are we going over the "fiscal cliff" and what does it all mean? What does Congressman-elect Eric Swalwell think of the fiscal cliff crisis?

Plastic Bag Ban

The ban on plastic bags will take effect on Jan. 1. Whether you love it or hate it, are you ready for it?

New Year's Eve

New Year's eve is fast approaching. Need ideas for your party? Chef Shell the Dinner Belle has two fun options. Check out her holiday drink and easy two-bite lasagna appetizers. Did you know you are supposed to wear red underwear on New Year's day for good luck? We have New Year's facts and traditions here. What about resolutions? See what our readers said about their resolutions. What is yours?

BART trains are running until 3 a.m. on New Year's eve. Want some more tips for getting home safely after imbibing for the holiday? See what the Mother's Against Drunk Driving and the California Office of Traffic Safety have to say about drunken driving.

Other news you need to know:

• Kwanzaa is Dec. 26 to Jan. 1
• New Laws for 2013
• Only a Few Days Left to Donate for Tax Write-Off 
• Weekly Grocery Specials and Coupons on Patch

Congratulations:

• High School Band on the Road to Fiesta Bowl Championships

• Pleasanton PTA Council Announces: Pleasanton Students Advancing to Next Level of National Art Competition
  

Take our Poll:  What is your New Year's Resolution for 2013?

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