There will be a traditional "German Mardi Gras" costume ball, entertainment, music by a live band, full German-style dinner, refreshments and prizes. 6:00 p.m. to Midnight Placerville Shakespeare Club, 2940 Bedford Avenue, Placerville. Cost is $10 for members and $13 for non-members. Dinner is available for an additional $15. prepaid by 1/19 For more information contact: Micki Roggatz (530) 644-2567
Tropical Storm Marco roared ashore on Mexico's gulf coast with near-hurricane force winds, prompting a shutdown of some oil platforms and forcing the evacuation of some 3,000 people.
In Australia, the world's driest inhabited continent, there is simply not enough water to go around. So farmers there rely on a unique trading system to make the most of every drop.
Weather 
