Swithboard Gallery hosts Scattered Water Droplets: Yatapk’oyihím Mom, an exhibit demonstrating the intimate relationship between native artists and their tribal waters, through Jan. 12. Switchboard Gallery is located at 525 Main St. in Placerville. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org/scattered-water-droplets.
The Sacred Arts of Tibet Tour of Gaden Shartse Norling Monastery returns to Placerville and Folsom, Jan. 2-18. The tour begins in Placerville with Wheel of Life Mandala through Jan. 12 at the historical Federated Church, 1031 Thompson Way in Placerville. The tour moves to Folsom with Medicine Buddha Mandala, supported by Mercy Folsom and Dignity Health, Jan. 14-18 at 1580 Creekside Drive, Community Education Room 1, Folsom. Check out the full schedule of events at placervillefriendsoftibet.org.
Jan. 4
West Coast Performing Arts Presenters present Motown Mania! at 7:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
Jan. 5
VITA Academy presents Rising Stars of Chamber Music at 2 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
Jan. 8
The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce and The Vine Wine & Tapas Bar hosts a mixer and ribbon cutting, 5-7 p.m. at 3907 Park Drive, Suite 110, El Dorado Hills. For more information call (916) 933-1335.
Jan. 10
El Dorado County Community Concert Association’s third concert of its 2024-25 season will feature Stephanie Trick & Paolo Alderighi at 7 p.m. at union Mine High School in El Dorado. For tickets and more information visit ElDoradoCommunityConcerts.com.
SPMA Rock Orchestra presents live renditions of the hit soundtracks from “Guardians of the Galaxy Vols. 1 & 2” in Jan. 10 & 11 at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
Jan. 17
The Shingle Springs Community Center presents a Bunko Dinner fundraiser with hearty soups at 5:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit shinglespringscommunitycenter.org.
Jan. 18
Mother Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises presents Art & Wine with Something MORE at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Indulge in tastings from local wineries, breweries, distilleries, restaurants, bakeries and caterers, all while enjoying an evening filled with unique activities and entertainment plus exceptional MORE client art. Visit morerehab.org for tickets and more information.
Donald Hill
Charter Alternative Programs
Donald Hill, EDCOE’s newly appointed assistant principal in the Charter Alternative Programs, brings over 20 years of experience in correctional education to his new position. Originally from the Serramonte area, Donald now resides in the Sacramento Valley with his wife and two sons. His journey to EDCOE was fueled by a passion for supporting individuals facing significant challenges and a commitment to education as a transformative tool.
“I was drawn to EDCOE for its supportive, mission-driven culture and its focus on correctional and alternative education,” Donald shared. “I’m eager to continue empowering students, both in the classroom and as they reintegrate into society.”
Donald’s role has already made a profound impact. As a teacher at Placerville Jail, he provided GED preparation, taught emotional regulation and utilized moral reconation therapy to promote responsible decisionmaking. Now, as assistant principal, he aims to broaden his support for both students and staff, fostering educational success and reducing reoffending.
Carey Buchanan, director of Alternative Programs, praises Donald’s contributions: “Donald’s integrity, consistency and calm leadership provide a sense of security for students and staff alike. His dedication to transforming lives through education is unmatched and we are grateful to have him in this pivotal role.”
Outside of work, Donald enjoys golfing, reading historical books and exploring his family’s history — connecting past legacies to the present. His unwavering commitment to growth, both personal and professional, continues to inspire those around him.
FreeDailyCrosswords.com
ACROSS-----------�
1) Pool shooter's powder
5) Disguise
9) Shakespearean "soon"
13) Little pat on the buns?
14) Heart chambers
16) "Star Trek" producer Roddenberry
17) Hollywood
19) Riverside plant
20)_ no. (business card info)
21) Needed to confess
23) Like a pencil point
27)Danny of "Do the Right Thing"
30)They're way off base
31)Was published
34) Pattern perfected by Firestone
35)Simon or Armstrong
36) College or city in Wisconsin
38)Sault Marie
39) Cold war?
42)Worrisome letters to send
43)Doo-wop selections, now
44)Farmer's prayer, sometimes
46)Unsavory type of political campaign
48)Steam radiator sound
49)_ Island, Florida
50)Rub the wrong way
52)Extremely busy
54)As of now
57)Body appendage
58) Rhineland negative
60)Some Christmas tree hangers
65) Bonny hillside
66)Egypt's Mubarak
67)Pro_ (proportionately)
68)Musical "Mama"
69) Penn on film
70)Decide not to take a hit
DOWN
1) "Dora the Explorer" fan
2) Foreman battler
3) Sportscaster Berman
4) He didn't know Who's on first
5) "My Dinner With Andre" director
6) Part of D.A.
7) Packed houses (Abbr.)
8) Male hatching eggs
9) Yes man, e.g.
10) Incisive or extremely pointed
11) In dire need of gas
12) Kelly or Rorem
15)"The King and I" schoolteacher
18)Auction endings?
22) Capone's henchman Frank
23)Souvenir from the beach?
24)Absolutely fabulous
25) Christmas plants
26) Is apprehensive about
28)Trelliswork
29)Poem of homage
32)"When said and done"
33)_ than (at least)
36)Unit of oil production (Abbr.)
37)"No_, ands or buts!"
40) Kind of premiere
41) Descriptive linguistics
42) 1040 ID
45) Silent OK signal
47)Does penance
49) Cleopatra's love
51)A pop
53) Entrance
55) New Mexico tourist city
56)Massachusetts motto opener
58)Major network
59) Victorian, e.g.
61)"The Double Helix" subject
62) Crooner "King" Cole
63)Zeta's follower
64)" what?"
Answers to puzzle on page 19
Get help with your taxes
Volunteer income tax counselors will be available at locations throughout El Dorado County Feb. 1 through April 15.
The tax service availability is by appointment only. The American Association of Retired Persons and United Way, California Capital Region in conjunction with the Internal Revenue Service and the California Franchise Tax Board provide this service free to all ages, middle- and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to seniors. Electronic filing is available at all locations. This method ensures that returns are processed faster with fewer errors, providing for quicker refunds.
Starting Jan. 15, those desiring to use the service of the TaxAide/VITA program should make an appointment to secure a date, time and location convenient for them. Appointments can be made online for El Dorado County at eldoradotaxes.org or call the phone number for the site where you wish to have an appointment: Placerville Senior Center call (530) 497-0380; Gold Country Senior Living in Placerville call (530) 303-8115; Cameron Park Community Center call (530) 395-3101; Garden Valley Fire Department call (530) 235-6332; Pollock Pines call (530) 497-0368; Heritage El Dorado Hills call (209) 806-3822.
For more information about AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, including what type of service is available where and which documents you need to file your taxes, visit eldoradotaxes.org or call 1-888-227-7669.
ALMOND JOY (A161304)
Even if you don’t feel like a nut, this cool banded B&W Guinea Pig will love you. Adopt! F, age unk.
(A162601)
He may not have won the west but he will win your heart. GSD, black & tan, 1 year 7mo.
Precious Pawprints
Adopt Today! Second-Chance Animals Make First-Class Pets!
To Ask about these pets at the El Dorado County Animal Shelter (530) 621-7631 • 6435 Capitol Avenue, Diamond Springs
(A161452)
Colorful but not too spicy, this F Red Hound mix is just 1 year old and in need of a fur-ever home.
(A162145)
She is a gorgeous classic DSH Calico; act quickly to adopt before someone else snaps her up. 6mo.
(A130228)
Quilter? Mathematician? Baptist minister? Novelist? NOPE! A great dog with light brown fur and lovely eyes. F GSDx 5yr. (530) 387-0110 4050 Durock Rd., #17 Shingle Springs sierramountainfirearms.com We BUY and SELL firearms and ammo. Bring in your UNLOADED firearms and ammo (must be in factory boxing unopened) for a CA$H offer.
Our Certified Instructors provide the best in firearm training and CCW qualifying. Click on our website to register.. FFL and AMMO Transfer Services for Firearms and Ammo If it's California compliant, you can use our FFL transfer services.
Firearms Training
GINGER SNAP (A162930)
Tackle wellness goals by adding a touch of green
n Better-for-you recipes inspired by savory salad kits
Family Features
Around the start of a new year, many people are setting their wellness intentions, from incorporating a variety of greens into meals to boosting daily step goals, drinking more water and practicing gratitude.
As part of the journey, it’s important to rethink nutrition and your recipe repertoire to include betterfor-you meals.
With more than 100 varieties of fresh, healthy and convenient readyto-eat salads, Fresh Express can provide recipe inspiration and support on your journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Visit freshexpress.com to discover more than 380 fresh recipes and find a store near you.
Italian Crusted Salmon with Creamy Truffle Caesar Salad
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons chopped, fresh rosemary
1/2 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
3tablespoons finely chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 salmon fillets
nonstick cooking spray
1 bag (9.3 ounces) Fresh Express
Twisted Caesar Creamy Truffle Caesar
Chopped Kit Salad
2 lemon wedges (optional)
Directions: Heat oven to 425 F. Line sheet pan with parchment paper.
In small bowl, combine garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, honey and salt. In another small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, walnuts and olive oil.
Place salmon on prepared sheet pan. Spread mustard mixture over fish; sprinkle with panko mixture, pressing to adhere. Lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray.
Bake 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with fork.
Place greens from salad kit in large bowl. Drizzle with dressing; mix well. Evenly divide salad among two plates. Top with salmon. Serve each with lemon wedge, if desired
Grilled Zucchini Nachos
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Servings: 4
4 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 bag (5 ounces) Fresh Express Sweet & Crunchy Salad
Blend
1 cup canned corn, cooked and drained
1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup tomato, diced
1/4 cup green onions
1/4 cup red onions
1 jalapeno, finely diced (optional)
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon sour cream
Directions: Heat grill to medium heat.
In large bowl, toss zucchini and olive oil to coat. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Place zucchini on grill pan; grill 4-5 minutes until just tender. Top zucchini with cheese and cook until cheese melts, 1-2 minutes.
Remove from grill and place on plate or large platter. Top cheesy grilled zucchini with salad blend; corn; black beans; tomato; green and red onions; jalapeño, if desired; avocado; cilantro; and sour cream.
8 healthier in 2025
ways to live
h Take steps to limit risk for cardiovascular disease
Family Features
The last decade has seen a surge in cardiovascular risk factors such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, each of which raises the risks of developing heart disease and stroke. These trends are leading researchers to conclude that the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) will continue to rise.
More than 60% of U.S. adults will have some type of CVD by 2050, according to forecasted projections from the American Heart Association, which is celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service as the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all. Additionally, total costs related to CVD are expected to nearly triple in that time to more than $1.8 trillion.
The increase will be driven by an older, more diverse population, but these risk factors are rising even among children and adults.
“We recognize the landscape of cardiovascular health will change over the next three decades because of the coming tsunami of rising health care costs, an older population living longer and increasing numbers of people from under-resourced populations,” said American Heart Association volunteer Karen E. Joynt Maddox, M.D., M.P.H., FAHA. “Yet these are still leading causes of death and disability in the U.S.”
While continued systematic changes are needed in science, policy and health care, the majority of CVD is preventable at an individual level. You can help turn the tide on the dire outlook of CVD while improving your own health by following and encouraging others to follow the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Essential 8.”
1
Eat better. Aim for an overall healthy eating pattern including whole foods, fruits and vegetables, lean protein, nuts, seeds and cooking with olive and canola oils.
2
Be active. Adults should get 2 1/2 hours of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week. Kids should have 60 minutes every day, including play and structured activities.
3
Quit tobacco. Use of inhaled nicotine delivery products, which includes traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and vaping, is the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S.
4 Get healthy sleep. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Children require 10-16 hours for ages 5 and younger, including naps; 9-12 hours for ages 6-12; and 8-10 hours for ages 13-18.
5
Manage weight. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight has many benefits. Body mass index is a useful gauge. Optimal BMI is less than 25, but less than 18.5 is considered underweight. You can calculate it online or consult a health care professional.
6
Control cholesterol. High levels of non-HDL, or “bad,” cholesterol can lead to heart disease. Your health care professional can consider non-HDL cholesterol as the preferred number to monitor, rather than total cholesterol, because it can be measured without fasting beforehand and is reliably calculated among all people.
7
Manage blood sugar. Most of the food you eat is turned into glucose (or blood sugar) your body uses as energy. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves.
8
Manage blood pressure. Keeping your blood pressure within acceptable ranges can keep you healthier longer. Levels less than 120/80 mm Hg are optimal. High blood pressure is defined as 130-139 mm Hg systolic pressure (the top number in a reading) or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic pressure (bottom number).
Find more ways to manage your health in the new year and beyond at heart.org.
Take a hike
Snowshoeing in Tahoe
West of the Meyers “Y” you’ll find a number of easy to moderate trails along Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Tahoe Mountain Road, and North Upper Truckee Road. Park at the Forest Service gates along those roads and snowshoe around Tahoe Mountain, Washoe Meadows State Park, and Angora Ridge, lakes and burn area.
Traveling west of Echo Summit on Highway 50, turn right onto Johnson Pass Road (near Little Norway) and park at the Echo Lakes/Johnson Pass Sno-Park (permit required). Then, snowshoe through Desolation Wilderness to Echo Lakes and Lake Aloha.
Bijou Park is centrally located in South Lake Tahoe and mostly flat. To snowshoe further and higher into the mountains, begin at a Forest Service gate on Pioneer Trail or at the end of Oneidas Street.
South of Meyers boasts early and late season snowshoeing in Tahoe due to its higher elevation. Grass Lake and nearby Hope Valley are mostly flat, whereas Big Meadow and Carson Pass Sno-Park (permit required) offer more challenging routes. For even more difficult climbs, head up Waterhouse, Freel or Red Lake peaks. These three peaks are extremely strenuous and require backcountry experience and a lot of time to safely navigate out and back.
95667
ORION (A162158)
It is written in the stars; you should adopt this red merle Queensland Healer mix. M 2yr.
He
JACK FROST (A162865)
romp in the snow and go for walks. White, Siberian Husky, 2 yr.
Twisting
(A158704) OREO (A162928)
This super senior has a unique dilute torbie coat that is very appealing. F, 13 yr. DSH
CUTIE (A162948)
Vampire slayer? No, she is a sweet but shy fawn Staffordshire Terrier mix waiting for you at the shelter. 3yr.
DARLA
She is a sleek DSH with black fur and a steady disposition that does not wax nor wane. 6 yr.
LUNA (A161973)
Answers to crossword puzzle on page 6
36) Catholic sacrament
38) TII at_(uncomfortable)
39) Brown songbird
41) Flawless musician
45) Tweet source
47) "For what _ worth "
49) Horse morsel
51) Window decor
52) Away from the outer edge
53) Fireplace remnant
55) Insect stage
58) Thick mud
59) Homebuyer's need, usually
60) Twisty-homed antelope
61) Kind of child
63) " . . . _ he drove out of sight ... "
1 cover a window from outside (7)
2 exchanged (8)
3 considerate behavior (6)
4 supported by regular ridges (6)
5 William and Harry (5)
6 wooly terrier breed (10)
7 embellish (7)
Answers
Find the 7 words to match the 7 clues. The numbers in parentheses represent the number of letters in each solution. Each letter combination can be used only once, but all letter combinations will be necessary to
NEW YEAR, NEW GOALS
Family Features
new year brings fresh opportunities for a lifestyle reboot, and as you set health goals for 2025, remember that your pet can embark on the journey to healthier living right beside you. Whether you’re aiming to eat better, exercise more or find peace of mind, one of the best strategies for success is the buddy system — and your pet might be the perfect partner.
Consider these three ways you and your pet can work toward healthy habits together this year.
Exercise
Many people find it challenging to stick to a gym routine and get the most out of that membership. However, there are countless ways to get exercise without relying on fancy gym equipment and working out at home means you can include your pet in the fun too. Even a simple walk or jog with your dog can be essential for vitality and well-being.
When you’re feeling ready for more adventure, head to a local park or hit the trails for an extra challenge. To keep things fun, try a game of fetch in the backyard or visit a dog park to add variety to your routines.
Diet
Eating real, recognizable and nutritious foods is essential for both humans and pets. An option like Nature’s Recipe delivers premium, natural nutrition with added vitamins, minerals and nutrients for pets at every life stage. With more than 40 years of expertise, its dog food recipes are inspired by nature and
“We’re committed to our promise that every ingredient counts,” said Dr. Preston Buff, principal scientist, nutrition and animal safety, Post Consumer Brands and Nature’s Recipe’s Pet nutritionist. “Pet parents can trust we use only the best to fuel their dog’s health and happiness. By focusing on premium ingredients that promote vitality, Nature’s Recipe empowers dog owners to invest in their pet’s health. We aim to recognize and delight pet parents who dive into ‘research mode’ and want healthy, nutrient-rich recipes.”
Emotional serenity
Quality time with pets has been shown to lower cortisol levels in humans, helping to promote calm and wellness, according to the National Institutes of Health. Whether it’s a walk through the neighborhood, playing in the backyard, a gentle grooming session or simply offering the occasional belly rub, spending time with your pet can bring a sense of peace and well-being.
As you and your pet journey together toward a healthier lifestyle in 2025, remember the path to healthy living is even more rewarding when traveled with a buddy. Discover more ways to support your pet’s vitality, health and happiness in 2025 with purposeful, nutrient-rich nutrition by visiting naturesrecipe.com.
Courtesy photos
Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and may also lead to serious balance problems.
This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood ow to the nerves in the hands and feet. If not properly treated this lack of blood ow may cause the nerves to degenerate.
As you can see in Figure 1, as the blood vessels surrounding the nerves become diseased they shrink and shrivel. This process hastens the ow of vital nutrients to the nerves required to remain healthy. When these nerves begin to “die” it could lead to balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling and burning symptoms in the hands and feet.
In order to effectively treat your neuropathy 3 factors must be determined.
Placerville, CA – Currently the most common method most doctor’s recommend to treat neuropathy is with the use of prescription drugs. Although these drugs may temporarily reduce your symptoms they may cause a feeling of discomfort and in some cases lead to a variety of terrible unwanted side effects. We have a different method!
The treatment to increase blood ow utilizes a specialized low-level light therapy (not to be confused with laser therapy) using light emitting diode technology. This technology was originally developed by NASA to assist in increasing blow ow.
The low level light therapy is like watering a tree. The light therapy will allow the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal and repair. It’s like adding water to a tree and seeing the roots grow deeper and deeper.
The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation.
“My feet hurt so bad after sitting I could barely take the rst few steps. I have had 11 treatments and no longer feel sharp or shooting pains and most of the tingling is gone. I now have full balance and can walk without pain. As Dr. Mooney explained the treatment is not painful, nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.” – Neuropathy Pain Patient
Pet Sitting & Bed & Biscuit
We Take Personalized Pet Care To The NEXT LEVEL!
Pets are family! That’s why we’ve thought of everything when it comes to the care of your pets while you are away.
Woofie’s® offers both in-home overnight care and our signature 24-hour Bed & Biscuit Overnight Care™. We start with an in-home consultation so we can get to know more about your pet’s routine care, feeding, personality, and answer any of the questions you have about our services and policies.
We know what it’s like to leave your furbaby for an extended period of time. Woofie’s® gives you peace of mind, knowing that your pup is in the best of hands while you are away.
Our professional dog walkers offer 15, 20, or 30-minute visits that include exercise, playtime, water bowl refreshing, waste removal, and of course, LOTS of love and attention!
Dog Walking
Woofie’s® mobile pet spa brings all of the comforts and amenities of an upscale grooming salon right to your front door.
Our fully equipped, state-of-the-art mobile pet spa is designed with your convenience and your pet’s comfort in mind.
Our services include mani-pedis, luxury baths, full or mini grooms and more!
