‘IT
IS SO HARD TO LOSE TWO BEAUTIFUL SOULS’
Community comes together at candlelight vigil to honor fire victims
Shelly Thorene Sta
writer
Hundreds of mourners gathered at the Belltower at 5 p.m. Sunday night to mourn the loss of two local teens, Joslyn Mae Walthers, 14, and Noah Chesterman, 15, both of Placerville who perished in a house fire in Somerset on Jan. 1.
Friends and family
tearfully signed memorials placed near the teens’ photos and lit candles. According to loved ones who spoke with media outlets, the fire started from a space heater that was too close to a Christmas tree at the friend’s house where the teens spent New Year’s Eve.
Green Valley Church Pastor Rebekah Townsend thanked everyone who attended. “When we face tragedy it’s really important that we come together and support one another and so just you being present here communicates love and care for the family but also those of you who are friends and knew Noah and Joslyn, you also need comforting tonight,” she shared. “As a community, we need comforting, so this is for you.”
Buckets of candles were placed at the base of the Belltower beside the banners with photos of each child and poster boards for friends and family to write messages. Townsend invited friends and family to share memories and thoughts of Noah and Joslyn and the first person to step up was Noah’s stepbrother Kaden Tappan, 10, of
Placerville. “We were really close,” Kaden said. “I loved him very much. He was strong, funny and I loved him very much. I am sure that he is having a real fun time in Heaven right now.”
Addy Gilmer, 14, of Placerville and Arianna Hernandez, 15, of Camino were the next speakers on the platform. “Joslyn was the most bright person ever,” Addy shared. “She was there for any person, no matter if she knew them or not. She always saw the bright
in everything. She was just the sweetest soul, ever, and took care of everybody around her and put everyone before her.” About Noah, she added, “Noah was a really good person and (he) put everyone before him. They were both beautiful souls that deserved so much and I’m praying for their families because it is so hard to lose two beautiful souls.”
Many students went up to the stage, two at
“When
crowd that gathered at the brief ceremony. “We want a caring environment that starts from the moment you get into the ambulance, with no interruptions along the way.”
MAIL LABEL
Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene
Friends of Joslyn Walthers, 14, above, write messages on a memorial created for the teen who perished alongside Noah Chesterman, 15, in a house fire in Somerset Jan. 1. Below, Addy Gilmer, 14, of Placerville, right, and Arianna Hernandez, 15, of Camino comfort each other, mourning the loss of their friends at the Jan. 12 vigil for the teens at Placerville’s Belltower.
ESSENTIALS
Joslyn Mae Walthers
March 5, 2010 – Jan. 1, 2025
Robert E. Weishar (Sparky)
Oct. 10, 1951 – Dec. 20, 2024
Joslyn Mae Walthers was born March 5, 2010 to Jeremy Walthers and Brandi Wright in Placerville, CA. She was a girl of many talents and loved being creative. She had a tremendous amount of love and compassion for animals and was always involved with Main Street Placerville, whether it was parades, events, shopping or just hanging out with friends. She had many passions in life; soccer, roller skating, swimming, gymnastics, baking, going to school football games, and paddle boarding on lakes while on family camping trips. She attended Gold Oak Elementary School, Indian Creek Elementary School, Herbert Green Middle School and was a freshman at El Dorado High School. Joslyn tragically lost her life in a devastating house fire in El Dorado County on New Year’s Day, age 14. Joslyn was a sweet and loving girl and she will be greatly missed. She is survived by: father, Jeremy Walthers, mother, Brandi Wright and step father, Robert Smith, grandparents; Ronn and Joyce Walthers of Shingle Springs, Ed and Pamela Farkas of Placerville, Juston and Roseanne Wright of Las Vegas, Nv., as well as beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 1 p.m., at the Foothills Church, 2380 Merrychase Dr., Cameron Park, CA 95682.
Janet Dawn Hodson
1947 – Dec. 2024
Janet Dawn Hodson died in December of 2024. She was born to Henrietta and James Hodson in Nebraska in 1947. She grew up in southern California and later graduated from the University of California at Berkeley with a B.A. degree. She loved classical music and opera. She traveled across America and gave lectures on best business practices as well as writing for various publications. In later years she worked as a substitute teacher in Placerville and volunteered at the local bird sanctuary patiently feeding baby birds. She will be missed by her family and friends.
Vanessa Marie Gradall
Apr. 21, 1982 – Nov. 20, 2024
Vanessa Marie Gradall passed away on November 20, 2024, after a valiant 4.5 year battle with an aggressive form of breast cancer. Her will and determination helped her live longer than expected. She was compassionate, very thoughtful, and a courageous fighter to the end. Vanessa’s friends were many, diverse and very important in her life. She easily made and maintained friendships. She met her best friend, Sarah Strom at pre-school. Sarah passed in December 2023. Vanessa found solace and love from her church and church friends. She told them that cancer had made her grow much stronger in her beliefs and other ways. More than anything she cherished her 6 nieces and 2 nephews. Always a kid at heart, she became the favorite Aunt. She had a t-shirt that said “AUNT — Like a Mom only COOLER!” She loved her Sisters. Vanessa got such pleasure seeking treasures at antique and thrift shops. Vanessa was a devoted cat lover and mother to her various kitties. She was a firm believer that cats are smarter than dogs. Vanessa had a tremendous knowledge of family genealogy. She traced the line of her mother and dad. She was particularly proud that she traced her mothers side to Oliver Wolcott, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Vanessa had her own sense of fashion. “Bring on the Bling” Her trademark was sparkly. Vanessa loved reading and most times she was absorbed with her reading. She always kept a book in her purse. Vanessa is survived by parents, Doug and Sally Gradall, sisters Jennifer Allen and Sarah Hansard, and her 6 nieces and 2 nephews. Vanessa’s Celebration of Life will be held at Live 58 Church on January 25th at 11:00 A.M. The address is 1165 Investment Blvd., Suite 150, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762. Vanessa’s favorite color is Purple.
Robert (Sparky) Weishar died December 20, 2024. He was born October 10, 1951 to Robert (Bob) Weishar and June Weishar in San Luis Obispo, California. He lived in San Luis Obispo, CA; Hayward, CA; Belmont, CA; Carmichael, CA; Fair Oaks, CA; Cameron Park, CA. He graduated from Del Campo High School and continued with further education at American River Community College. His passion was always in some kind of electronics. He created a surround sound system before stereo existed, he had his own radio station, he worked with film and made movies before video, he was a CB radio operator and then later became a licensed HAM radio operator. His knowledge of electronic since childhood and forward led him to a career in electronics. He worked for the Army Depot and then for Radio Shack, eventually managing a Radio Shack store. He was a Sea Scout leader. He worked with the Lions. He volunteered more than twenty years with the Sacramento Sheri ’s Sharpe program. He also became involved with pyrotechnics setting up large firework displaces in parks. He was married for a short time and had two step sons. He has a sister, a niece, two nephews, two great nieces, and two great nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Robert Weishar and his mother June Weishar. Services were held January 10 at Green Valley Mortuary.
Harold (Hal) Pringle
Mar. 21, 1936 – Nov. 10, 2024
Hal was 88. He lived and worked in El Dorodo County over 30 years. He moved to Dayton, NV, after he retired from the El Dorado Co. Sheri ’s Dept. where he was the Work Program Supervisor. He also worked as a Placerville Police Deputy and a Probation O cer. His wife of 60 years, Shirley Pringle, also worked for the El Dorado Co. Sheri ’s Dept. as a Matron Dispatcher Deputy. She passed away in July 2018. His son died in 1976 leaving his only daughter Tracey Gardner, 3 grandchildren Daniel Varozza, Dustin Pringle and Amber Proctor, and 11 great grandchildren. His only brother Robert Pringle and family in Concord. We will be honoring him at the Veterans Cemetery with full honors ceremony for his many years of service on January 21, 2025 at 1pm in Fernley, NV.
Fordyce “Ford” Lee Osborn
May 14, 1937 – Dec. 5, 2024
Ellen (Doran) Martin
Feb. 27, 1930 – Jan. 5, 2025
Ellen (Doran) Martin died January 5, 2025, in Placerville, CA. She was born February 27, 1930, in Chicago, IL to Thomas Joseph Doran and Ellen (Feeney) Doran. Ellen is survived by her children, David Martin, Daniel (Beverly) Martin, Linda (Joe) Bound, Patricia (Kenton) Meyers, Jim (Gail) Martin, Betty (Jim Callison) Martin, Bill (Marie) Martin, Mary (Randy) Webb, Paul Martin, and Barbara (Paul) Shackleton, 29 grandchildren and 64 great-grandchildren. Ellen was predeceased by her husband Harold, son Richard, grandson David William Martin, great-grandson Brett Noble Terry, and daughter-in-law Debra Kae Martin. Friends are invited to join the family for the recitation of the Rosary at 11:30 am and Mass of the Christian Burial at 12:00 pm, both on January 17, 2025, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 3111 Tierra de Dios Dr., El Dorado Hills, CA 95762.
James Murray Vincent Macdonald
Mar. 7, 1935 – Dec. 23, 2024
James Murray Vincent Macdonald, also known as: Grandpa Mac, Handsome Prince, Mac, Jimmy, Dad, and Pop, joined our many angels in heaven on December 23, 2024. He was the greatest man I’ve ever known. Devoted son, brother, father, grandfather, friend and most importantly, husband. He met the love of his life, Barbara Joyce in 1954 and made her his wife in 1955. The two soul mates remained married for 69 incredible, beautiful years and together raised an amazing family. Their children include Laurie, James, wife Teresa, Marjorie, husband Rudy, Julie, and Scott, wife Kristin. Their family continued to grow, 14 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren with two more great grandbabies on the way. Dad was an old soul with nothing but love and kindness in his heart. He will be missed and remembered by so many. He was our knight in shining armour. He follows his siblings Allen, Margret, Claudia and is survived by his sister Kathleen. We are all thankful for the many, many special memories. Rest in peace Daddy, your bride will join you when her chores are through. God Bless.
Dr. Harriet Lynn Drummer, DO
Dec. 29, 1942 – Dec. 27, 2024
Fordyce Lee Osborn was born on May 14, 1937, in Santa Rosa, CA to Maxine Ione Tolley Osborn and Fordyce Cicero Osborn. He attended schools in Santa Rosa and Oakland, CA. Ford served in the Naval Air Reserve as a radioman on board the P2V aircraft. He received his Batchelor of Science degree from San Jose State. He was a part of the start-up of Silicon Valley, working for a number of the early companies. For many years he worked as a Senior Research Engineer for SRI (formerly Stanford Research) in Menlo Park, CA, followed by Lockheed Martin. He and his wife, Ellen, lived in Los Altos, CA. Ford had many hobbies, including: riding his Harley motorcycle, SCUBA diving, folk dancing, and above all, HAM radio. He was licensed by the FCC Amateur Radio League for 70 years. He held an Extra Class License, but kept his original call sign: K6ONE. He loved chess. At one point in his life, he was a nationally ranked player. He was a Master Mason of the Blue Lodge of California, serving as Master of Los Altos Lodge #712 in 1990. After moving to Pollock Pines upon retirement, he a liated with local lodges. He and his wife volunteered for the Eldorado National Forest and the Oregon California Trails Association to research the location of the emigrant trails, enjoying many days in the forest with fellow researchers. Ford was recognized for giving over 1000 hours of volunteer service to the Forest Service. He also volunteered with Eldorado National Forest Interpretive Association, where he put in over 500 hours of work. In retirement, Ford took up new interests and developed new skills and talents, such as oil painting, furniture making and welding. He leaves us many precious examples of his skill. Ford is survived by his wife, Ellen Osborn, of Pollock Pines, and children Nancy Berman of Saratoga, Florida, Michael Osborn of Turlock, California, and Ann Taylor of Patterson, California, and four grandchildren. Services are pending.
Lori Renee Lewin
Mar 21, 1959 – Dec 12, 2024
Lori Renee Lewin, born on March 21, 1959, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024, at the age of 65. Lori was the beloved daughter of Dana Dean Lewin and Diane Joyce Ichord, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also predeceased by her brother, Johnny Dana Lewin. Lori is survived by her sister, Dani Ann Lewin, and her two children, Dana Zion Whitmore and Jerryme Pettegrew. Art was Lori’s true passion. Her creativity and dedication to her craft brought beauty and inspiration to those who knew her. She will be remembered for the joy she found in expressing herself through art and for the light she shared with others. May Lori’s memory bring comfort to all who loved her.
Dr. Harriet Lynn Drummer, DO, a beloved physician and cherished family member, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2024, just two days shy of her 82nd birthday in La Jolla, California. Born on December 29, 1942, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Lynn dedicated over three decades of her life to the practice of medicine with an unwavering commitment to her patients and community.
A graduate of osteopathic medicine who specialized in Family Medicine, Dr. Drummer was known for her compassionate approach and gentle demeanor. Her career flourished in Placerville, California where she touched countless lives through her dedication to health care. Patients often remarked that they felt seen and heard under her care—a testament to the kindness that defined both her professional and personal life.
Lynn’s legacy extends beyond the walls of her practice; she was a devoted mother to Richard Wright; Shanon Kunkle; James Wright; as well as a loving grandmother whose warmth enveloped all those around her. She is also survived by many dear friends who were fortunate enough to experience firsthand the generosity of spirit that characterized every interaction with Lynn.
Her husband John Drummer predeceased her but remains forever etched in their family’s memories, together they shared a love story filled with laughter and adventure that inspired everyone around them.
In addition to being an exceptional healthcare provider and nurturing mother figure within her family circle, Lynn had an infectious zest for life that drew people toward her like moths to a flame. Whether it was sharing stories over tea or lending support during di cult times, her presence brought comfort wherever she went.
As we mourn this profound loss together as family members—and indeed as part of a larger community—we remember not only what has been lost but also celebrate how much joy she brought into our lives while here among us.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date when loved ones can gather together—to honor Dr. Harriet Lynn Drummer’s remarkable journey through this world marked by compassion for others until its very end—and reflect upon how deeply missed she will be by all who knew and loved such an extraordinary woman, friend and Mom.
Chris Wright: (406) 350-2663 / the406cafe@ gmail.com
DON’T MISS
Monks wrap up annual Placerville visit
Odin Rasco Senior staff writer
The Tibetan monks from the Gaden Shartse Norling Monastery concluded their 10-day visit to Placerville with a dissolution ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 11.
A reflection on the impermanence of all things, the ceremony involves the ritual sweeping away and destruction of the mandala the monks had spent more than a creating out of 35 different kinds of colored sand.
“Every moment is a precious moment to apply yourself to be a better person, because any moment, you could have your life plucked from you,” Geshe Phuntsho told the crowd as the ceremony began. “Dissolution isn’t just happening on this table; it happens within ourselves. Every second, we are exhausting our energy and changing.”
The event, held at Federated Church, drew a large crowd of volunteers and community members. Groups of monks take two-year tours abroad from their monastery, located in exile in Southern India, to spread goodwill and raise funds for the monastery. With groups visiting almost every year for more than 20 years now, Placerville has become a perennial stop on their trip.
The monks will visit Folsom at 1580 Creekside Drive Jan. 14-19 before heading to the next stop on their travels. Check out the remaining schedule of events at placervillefriendsoftibet. org.
Gold is a strong yet malleable metal that used to be common in dental work but isn’t used as much today. But that doesn’t mean gold fillings no longer offer an excellent choice. Aesthetics and cost are the main reasons gold fillings are less common now. Porcelain and ceramic fillings are durable, affordable, and blend seamlessly with other teeth. However, gold offers the most durable filling available, sometimes lasting fifty years. They generally outlast other filling materials by 10 to 15 years because they don’t corrode. Since they’re highly resistant to oral acids and bacteria, gold filling help protect the surrounding gums too. Gold fillings have the same hardness
A collection of
as enamel, so they don’t wear down opposing teeth.
If you would like to learn about the kinds of materials we use for repairing cavities and keeping your smile a healthy one, be sure to discuss your questions with us. We bring you our dental column in order to keep you up-to-date on the latest materials, research, innovations, and procedures available in dentistry today and to inform our readers how the many benefits of modern oral care can enhance their lives via a stunning smile.
P.S. The gold used for fillings in dentistry is not pure gold, which is too soft for teeth. It is always mixed with harder metals like platinum, palladium, chromium, and nickel.
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene
Tibetan Buddhist Monk Venerable Lobsang Yeshe shows a picture from a story book read by
Placerville Friends of Tibet organizer Chris Belmer, of Placerville (not pictured) to a group of preschool children at Federated Church on Jan. 7. Venerable Surya Bishit, right, and Geshe Lundup Phuntshok, center, work on the Wheel of Life mandala during the activity, one of many special events held during the monks’ time in El Dorado County.
Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco
The completed mandala depicted the Wheel of Life, above. The mandala includes elements representing ignorance, hatred and attachment, the three main negatives of life, according to Tibetan Buddhist philosophy. Below, members of the Placerville Friends of Tibet and volunteers who helped on this leg of the monks’ tour were thanked with white scarves at Saturday’s ceremony.
Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco
The Tibetan Buddhist monk Venerable Lobsang Yeshe from the Gaden Shartse Norling Monastery in Southern India, above left, performs a blessing at the Mountain Democrat on Jan. 10 during the monks’ visit. From left, Venerable Lobsang Yeshe, Venerable Palden Andrup, Geshe Phuntsho, Lobsang Khamchuk Rinpoche, Geshe Lundup Phuntshok and Venerable Surya Bishit, above right, chant as they begin the dissolution ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 11 at Federated Church.
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene
Mt. Murphy Bridge likely closed for at least a month
News release
El Dorado County’s Department of Transportation closed Mt. Murphy Road Bridge over the South Fork American River in Coloma Sunday, Jan. 12, after a vehicle damaged the structure’s side railing earlier that day.
The bridge is closed for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. El Dorado County Department of Transportation officials advise drivers to use Mt. Murphy Road to Marshall Road in Garden Valley to exit the northeast side of the river. Vehicles over 30 feet are not advised on Mt. Murphy Road. Motorists should also allow extra time when traveling through the detour to arrive at their destinations on time. Due to the narrow one lane road condition of Bayne Road, only local traffic is advised.
Transportation staff is currently working to gather all the information needed to put a restoration plan in place as soon as possible and is currently making minor repairs. Additionally, DOT staff anticipates having structural engineers out this week to aid with specialized inspection equipment that can detect damage not visible to the human eye. A contractor will be hired to complete the necessary structural repairs. The completion date is unknown at this time, but it is estimated that the closure will last at least one month. DOT will provide updates to the public as available.
The county sincerely appreciates the cooperation and patience of motorists who use this bridge. For more details regarding this closure call the DOT main line at (530) 621-5900 or (530) 642-4909.
EDSO helicopter spots runaway suspect
Odin Rasco Senior staff writer
A suspect fleeing from a reported break-in was apprehended by deputies from the El Dorado Sheriff’s Office with the aid of an eye in the sky earlier this month.
On Saturday, Jan. 4, a local realtor checking on a client’s property discovered a woman had broken into the home. The realtor called 911 as the woman, whose
identity was not made public, fled the scene. EDSO’s Echo 1 helicopter crew was able to track the fleeing vehicle from the air. When the suspect attempted to hide behind a building after parking her vehicle, the helicopter’s onboard infrared imaging camera was utilized, spotting her heat signature, according to an EDSO press release. Echo 1’s crew directed deputies on the ground to the suspect’s location, where she was taken into custody.
New conifer nursery the topic at forum
Diane Dealey Neill
Amador-El Dorado Forest Forum
On Wednesday, Jan. 22, the Amador-El Dorado Forest Forum will host Jessica Hinojosa, Sierra Pacific Industries tree improvement manager, to speak about phase one of the new SPI Nursery in Gazelle. The meeting will be at the Eldorado National Forest Supervisor’s Office, lower-level conference room, 100 Forni Road, Placerville. Hinojosa will make her presentation from a remote location.
In December 2022 the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection awarded Sierra Pacific Industries a $3 million grant to advance production of tree seedlings in California. The grant leveraged SPI’s investment in the first phase of a more than $10 million state-ofthe-art nursery built and operated by SPI in Siskiyou County’s Gazelle. The nursery specializes in production of native conifer seedlings for forest restoration, research, and conservation projects.
This new nursery addresses the need for additional seedling production in a short amount of time. Production will ramp up over the first several years with 6 million seedlings sown in 2024, followed by another 12 million seedlings this year. The nursery, expected to be fully operational by 2026, will be capable of producing 25 million seedlings annually.
Social hour begins at 6 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. The presentation will start at 7:15 p.m. To reserve a space for dinner contact Diane Dealey Neill at dianedealeyneill@gmail.com or (530) 417-1960 by Friday, Jan. 17, at 5 p.m. A soup bar with homemade artisan bread will be served for a cost of $15 per person. Soups include pozole, minestrone, split pea with ham and butternut squash. Raffle tickets to support the Forest Forum may be purchased at the door.
The Amador-El Dorado Forest n
Courtesy photo
Footage from the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office Echo 1 helicopter shows a deputy arresting a woman who is suspected of breaking into a home in the county. The helicopter’s infrared camera proved instrumental in locating the suspect after she fled the area.
OPINION
California Matters
Past surplus spending casts shadow over Newsom’s new state budget
Fashioning a budget for a state as large and diverse as California is a fraught process under the best of circumstances, involving not only strictly financial aspects but demands from countless interest groups and the internal politics of the Capitol.
That said, what happened three years ago, as Gov. Gavin Newsom and legislators were finalizing a 2022-23 budget, remains one of the most egregious errors of fiscal judgment in state history and looms over the budget process today.
As the state was emerging from the COVID19 pandemic, it experienced a sharp uptick in revenues, particularly in personal income taxes, thanks largely to massive injections of federal relief funds and a big gain in taxable investment profits among high-income taxpayers.
Newsom and his budget advisors concluded that the much-higher general fund revenues would continue indefinitely — far surpassing the state’s core expenditures. The projection generated a monumental paper surplus Newsom tabbed at $97.5 billion, although the number never appeared in any documents.
Letters to the Editor
Lesson in leadership
EDITOR:
John O’Shea in his Trump is not a leader letter rails about how Trump mischaracterized the ISIS inspired terrorist who committed the New Orleans tragedy as an illegal. After the last four years, I find it incredible that a Biden supporter would have the nerve to bring up leadership.
dollar spent housing illegals in five-star hotels and providing gift cards to illegals is a dollar that could have been spent on our homeless vets and other impoverished Americans.
That is where leadership matters, Mr. O’Shea, not in the mischaracterization of a terrorist.
New sheri in town
EDITOR:
The proposed budget projects an increase in revenues from earlier estimates but essentially spends all the extra money. It continues the use of emergency reserves and other tactics that were employed last year.
“No other state in American history has ever experienced a surplus as large as this,” Newsom boasted as he unveiled what became a muchrevised $308 billion budget, which was $22 billion higher than his original proposal. It turned out to be a mirage. Revenues never reached the elevated level he had assumed. Last year, buried in the fine print, the 2024-25 budget acknowledged the error and estimated it to be $165.1 billion over four years. Newsom blamed the volatility of California’s tax system for the immense gap between expectations and reality — instead of a miscalculation.
Nevertheless, the damage was done. Much of the phantom surplus had already been baked into the spending side of the budget, leading to massive deficits.
Last year, to cover the yawning gap between income and outgo, Newsom and the Legislature resorted to tapping the state’s emergency reserves, bookkeeping gimmicks, direct loans from special
■ See WALTERS, page A7
Too often we quit right at the time we are close to being successful. Frequently, we give up at the darkest part of the night when morning is so close to appearing. You may have spent a lifetime trying to conquer an addiction. Your addiction has colored your life in an unflattering way. Most likely it’s a ected your success, finances and your relationships. Answer this question: Is your addiction worth what it has cost you? Do you really derive that much pleasure from the very thing that keeps tearing you apart and bringing you down? We both know the answer, and it’s a big no. Yet, you keep going back to what brings you
But since you did, Mr. O’Shea, let’s look at Biden’s leadership. Biden’s leadership gave us the Afghanistan debacle, one of the most embarrassing military disasters in our history. An insane lack of leadership that cost the lives of over a dozen service men and women. And then there’s Laken Riley and the many other Laken Rileys killed or grievously injured by illegals who Biden invited to invade our country. Some Biden even flew over the border to points all over the country.
Bidenflation give us grocery prices that had some even accruing credit card debt to buy food. And inflation is cumulative. Even if Trump was to get inflation to zero you would still have the high grocery prices that Biden gave us. Every
A rrogant, e ete, and elitist Gov. Gavin Newsom and his equally greasy mini me, Bobby Bonta, are working hard to show how tough they can be against the incoming Trump administration. They even want another $25 million of our money just to attack the incoming administration. Focusing on illegal aliens, they may be putting the state of California and even themselves into a world of hurt.
Several years ago, Newsom not only declared California a sanctuary state but also openly welcomed all illegal immigrants to move to
down. Why not try one more time? This could be the year that you turn the corner and the page for a new and better you. You may feel as if your marriage and relationship with your spouse has failed. He or she has failed, you have failed, you both have given up and let your marriage die. What could he or she do di erently? What can you do di erently? No one is perfect. Another man or woman will have their own issues of some kind.
We are imperfect people. Is your marriage worth saving? What about all the years, toil, work and life that you have shared with this other person? Is it not worth giving it one more try?
If you give it one more honest
Every human has had some kind of life failure. Abraham Lincoln lost election after election. Losing an election is gut wrenching but he kept trying.
e ort at least you’ll know that you tried and that will be worth some peace of mind down the road. Sit down and have a heart-to-heart talk and deal with any and every issue that you feel is important to making your marriage work. Talk it out, pray it out, be completely real. There was something about this person that made you love and marry him/ her, so go back and give it one more concerted e ort at making it really work.
Every human has had some kind of life failure. Abraham Lincoln lost election after election. Losing an election is gut wrenching but he kept trying. President Donald Trump has been through about as much as anyone I’ve known but came back to
be our president. Most of us would have given up long ago and could never have survived all he has been through. What do you need to try one more time?
What about your weight loss? Are you tired of feeling bad, having clothes that won’t fit and watching your health decline because you are carrying 20 or 30 pounds you don’t need? You have probably lost 10 or 20 pounds and then put it right back on. We’ve all done this more than once. It’s easy to do. As Dolly Parton said, “There is a fat person inside me trying to get out.” I feel the same way. Why not get real religious about your eating? It’s 95% about your eating.
GEORGE ALGER Placerville
DAN WALTERS
GLENN MOLLETTE
Walters Continued from A6 funds and indirect borrowing from school funds and corporations.
This bit of recent budgetary history is offered because a new state budget cycle began on Friday, when Newsom’s finance director, Joseph Stephenshaw, unveiled an initial $322.3 billion 2025-26 budget proposal, including a $228.9 billion general fund. Overall, it means that the $165.1 billion error still haunts the budget. Despite Newsom’s claims that the budget would be balanced, revenues still fall short of covering the additional spending that Newsom
and legislators adopted three years ago on a mistaken assumption. The proposed budget projects an increase in revenues from earlier estimates but essentially spends all the extra money. It continues the use of emergency reserves and other tactics that were employed last year. It also means that despite the seemingly precise numbers of the proposed budget, there are many highly variable factors.
They include how President-elect Donald Trump and a Republican Congress might affect the many billions of dollars that the federal
California as they would be well cared for by the state. It wasn’t long before Newsom was begging the federal government for funds to cover the costs of these immigrants. Of course, he did the same thing by inviting the homeless and has spent over $25 billion so far as homelessness continues to grow in the state.
Newsom’s and Bonta’s stunts could come back to hurt the state of California. The Republicans now control all three branches of the U.S. government. The legislative branch may not provide the funds to support illegal aliens and this would put a huge
government contributes to education, health care and welfare programs; uncertainty about taxable income from capital gains and, most recently, the effects of the wildfires devastating Southern California communities.
The wildfire impact could be immense, particularly if Trump doesn’t honor outgoing President Joe Biden’s pledge of massive federal aid. Trump issued a fact-free blast faulting Newsom — one of his sharpest critics — for not giving Southern California enough water, but hasn’t said whether he intends to limit federal relief.
financial burden on the already shaky California budget.
Newsom and Bonta may also have some personal problems coming. Recently, incoming Border Czar Tom Homan mentioned during a TV interview involving the mayor of Denver that U.S. Code Title 8, Section 1324 would be used. Basically, this law states it is a federal felony to “add and/or abet” illegal aliens. If you, like many others, believe nobody is above the law, it could be an open season for these two clowns. The new administration was largely voted to power for their stance on the
New York, N.Y. 10018 For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Thursday, January 16, 2025 Edited by Joel Fagliano No.
Even if Trump is generous with wildfire assistance, local governments will experience declines in property and sales tax revenues and will look to Sacramento for help.
The bottom line is that the January budget may bear only a passing resemblance to the version that must be enacted by June 15, and even less to the budget revisions that will surely follow after June 15.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters. org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
open border, which has driven up crime and drug overdose deaths to over 100,000 people per year. Hopefully the new DOJ will start enforcing the law of the land. California leadership may soon find out the hard way that there is a new sheriff in town. We can only hope.
Exercise helps but it’s mostly about your eating. Go to small portions three or four times a day. This way you’ll not be starving and you’ll slowly lose about a pound a week. In six months, you’ll be so happy you’ll be singing and dancing. Don’t give up on God. He will help you with all the above and more. The old song asks this question, “Have you failed in your plan of your storm-tossed life? Place your hand in the nailscarred hand. Are you weary and worn from its toil and strife? Place your hand in the nail-scarred hand. He will keep to the end. He’s your dearest friend. Place your hand in the nail-scarred hand.” Glenn Mollette is an author and national columnist. Learn more at GlennMollette.com.
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SUBMIT YOUR LETTER online at mtdemocrat.com. Select “Forms and Submissions” from the menu. We do not publish anonymous letters so don’t forget to include your first and last name and where in El Dorado County you live.
Announcements
AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com
AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net
AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org
CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS
CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.
El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR
RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net
PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452. We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the
month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information. GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513
Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men
PUZZLE
Mollette
JACK PARSONS Rescue
Exchange your used puzzles for new-to-you puzzles! Fair�eld Cordelia Library, 5050 Business Center Drive, Fair�eld. ldetomaso @solanocounty.com Odd Fellows Line Dance @ 2pm
for Adults and Kids Ages 10+ Odd Fellows Hall, 415 2nd Street, Davis. davis linedance@gmail.com
Artist Talk with Stephen Giannetti @ 3pm Meet Stephen Giannetti and en‐joy his free artist talk at the Pence! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pence socialmedia@gmail.com, 530-758-3370
Mari Mack @ 4pm The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco
Wonder Bread 5: Vintage High Crab Feed - Napa @ 4:30pm Napa Valley Expo, 575 3rd St, Napa
Nat Lefkoff: Winters, CA @ 7pm House Concert, Winters
Final Straw @ 7:30pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Brooks Herring @ 8pm Gaslight Co., 718 Sutter St, Folsom DJ Peeti-V @ 10pm Dive Bar, Sacramento
9am / $40
Inviting all children K-6th
morning of music and fun with the Davis High Madrigal Singers. Davis Senior High School, 315 West 14th Street, Davis. dhsmads.info@ gmail.com Superloser @ 6pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco
Egemen Sanli: Yoga with Live Music (Janet Stone) @ 6pm HAUM - Yoga Studio, 2973 16th St 5th Floor, San Francisco
2ND @ 6:30pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco 1st @ 6:30pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco
Phil Grif�ths: Dead Funny: Movie Rif�ng (Night of the Living Dead) @ 7pm The Lost Church San Francisco, 988 Columbus Ave, San Francisco
Emblem @ 7:30pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Skingraft @ 7:30pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Sophie Truax with monty.pk @ 8pm / $27.22 Cafe Du Nord, San Francisco
Jeffrey James @ 6pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco
The Last Dragon - Film @ 7pm Crest Theatre, 1013 K Street, Sacramento
@ 7pm / $13 A local stand up competition hosted by Josh Means highlighting the up and coming talent in and around the Sacramento area. Laughs Unlim‐ited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsunlimited@gmail.com, 916446-8128
Rock and Country Wednesdays @ Music City San Francisco @ 7pm / $29
Rock and Country at Music City SF, where electrifying riffs and heartfelt twang make for an unforgettable night! 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Francisco. aprill@mus iccitysf.org
Anthony Boccaleoni at the Fox and Goose @ 7pm Fox & Goose Public House, 1001 R St, Sacramento
Todd Barry: Cobbs (with Todd Glass) @ 7:30pm Cobb's Comedy Club, 915 Colum‐bus Ave, San Francisco
Some Like it Hot @ 7:30pm Orpheum Theatre-San Francisco, San Francisco
Megan Claire @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco
Voctave: San Francisco, CA @ 8pm San Francisco Conservatory of Music, 50 Oak St, San Francisco
Ex-Juncos: SIMM Series @ 7:30am Musicians Union Local 6, 116 9th St, San Francisco KillBill Sax: Members Only Event @ 2pm Yountville, CA, Yountville David Harness: Mighty Real x Five Finger Disco MLK Weekend @ 3pm Audio SF, 316 11th St, San Fran‐cisco Skunk Funk:
Jazz Tuesdays @ Music
City San Francisco, Live Music @ 7pm / $29 Where Jazz Takes Center Stage Every Tuesday Night! 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Fran‐cisco
grex: Jazz at the MakeOut: Revenant, Nestor, Intangible @ 7pm Make-Out Room, 3225 22nd St, San Francisco
Echo Beach Jazz Band: 3 jazz bands on 1 night at Music City SF @ 7pm Music City San Francisco, 1355 Bush St, San Francisco
Some Like it Hot @ 7:30pm Orpheum TheatreSan Fran‐cisco, San Francisco
Dave Ricketts Music: Dave Ricketts & Friends at The Sea Star @ 7:30pm The Sea Star, 2289 3rd St, San Francisco
Paul Masvidal: Spiritual Weight Tour @ 7:30pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco
Voctave: San Francisco, CA @ 8pm San Francisco Conservatory of Music, 50 Oak St, San Francisco MARÉ @ 8:30pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Brenda Mallory: In the Absence of Instruction @ 11am In the solo exhibition, Brenda Mal‐lory includes prints, multi-media and installation artworks to con‐sider the complex relationships and structures of power and iden‐tity.
Brenda Mallory: In the Absence of Instruction @ 11am In the solo exhibition, Brenda Mal‐lory includes prints, multi-media and installation artworks to con‐sider the complex relationships and structures of power and iden‐tity. Gorman Museum of Native American Art, 181 Old Davis Road, Davis. cngorman@ucdavis.edu, 530-752-6567
Drew Harrison: HarrisonTamelier / An Acoustic Show @ 6pm Slow Hand BBQ, 1941 Oak Park Blvd, Pleasant Hill 1st @ 6:30pm
Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco
Laugh It Forward - LIVE COMEDY @ 7pm / $24
$20 of every admission goes to La‐guna Creek Boosters Hosted by Phat Joe Featuring Jilldo CoHeadlining Gabriel Alexander and Roman Guzman Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsun limited@gmail.com, 916-446-8128
Edward Simon Trio @ 7pm SFJAZZ Center, 201 Franklin St, San Francisco
This Lonesome Paradise @ 8pm Torch Club, 904 15th St, Sacramento The Heart Wants @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco
Green
Celebrate National Day of Service by volunteering
USDA Forest Service
News release
VALLEJO — The USDA Forest Service invites everyone to embrace the spirit of giving back on Jan. 20, a fee-free day on most day-use national forest sites. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service, to encourage volunteers to improve their communities.
The Forest Service also reminds everyone to be prepared when visiting California’s national forests. Recreation on many national forests during winter can present unique safety challenges. Vehicles can get stuck on snow-covered roads and in overcrowded parking areas. Illegal parking can slow traffic and block access for emergency vehicles.
So, plan your outing carefully — whether skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, hiking or just taking a scenic drive.
It’s best to know before you go. Prepare for colder outdoors and be ready to navigate changing situations. Pack a winter car kit and check road and weather conditions.
“Think the basics for a winter car kit — water, food, warm gloves and clothes, headlamps or flashlights,
sleeping bag, and fire starter. These same supplies are best to have packed any time of year too,” said Nancy Parachini, acting director of Public Services for the Forest Service’s Pacific Southwest Region.
Other resources
• Use Caltrans QuickMap for winter and fire alerts. Travel apps and map services may not show the current situation. You could get lost or stuck.
• Be prepared — Check your tire tread and pressure. Top off windshield fluid. Pack tire chains, an ice scraper, and your winter car kit for an emergency.
• Stay safe when skiing and snowboarding — Check the weather and facility status before leaving. Read Ski California’s mountain safety guide for a quick refresher.
• Be avalanche aware and take extra precautions in the backcountry. Carry avalanche equipment, travel in groups if possible, and check avalanche reports. Helpful resources: Eastern Sierra Avalanche Forecast, Sierra Avalanche Center for Lake Tahoe area, and Mount Shasta Avalanche Center.
COMICS
The awning will provide cover from the elements for patients and first responders, an upgrade intended to remove some stress from alreadycritical moments when an emergency patient is transported to the hospital.
“Enhancing our ambulance bay with this protective awning will ensure emergency responders and patients are better protected from rain, wind and extreme temperatures,” Nelson states in a Marshall press release. “We are committed to providing an elevated experience for every patient, every time.”
Christa Campbell, owner of Apple Hill’s Rainbow Orchards and board chair of the Marshall Foundation for Community Health, spoke to the crowd to highlight the community support the project had received.
“With the support of our donors, the foundation raised more than half a million dollars to make sure this
project can get done,” Campbell said.
Nelson celebrated the strong support Marshall received from community members and partners, a testament to the medical center’s unique position as an independent entity.
“I think one thing that truly makes Marshall unique is its connection to the community,” Nelson said. “We all pull together to do the right thing, together. Unlike other medical groups, we don’t have a corporate o ce in some other city or state. We’re right here and that’s rare in health care. Independence allows us to be more nimble, more supportive and more connected.”
Construction of the project is scheduled to last around 12 weeks, with the awning expected to be complete by late March or mid-April, barring weather delays, according to Marshall Senior Project Manager Gabriel Lopez.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Invite people into your life and plans. While there’s a tipping point where involving too many can become overly complicated or cumbersome, you’re still far from that number -- so keep the invitations owing and enjoy the connections you make along the way!
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). For a relationship to work well, both parties should agree on the boundaries. This is best done organically because people may agree in theory to things they do not agree with in practice.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You’ve been in uenced by memorable people whose lasting impressions kept you following their advice and examples. You’ll now consider how you can create guides for others.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). The classic question of whether the glass is half-full or half-empty wouldn’t arise if the glass simply matched the amount it held. Thinking about e ciency early in any endeavor will prevent problems and keep the focus productive.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The task will be challenging, so it will be hard to want to stick with it. Even the smallest thing can become a distraction. Instead of acting on every whim, jot down unhelpful impulses in a note. This simple act will keep you on track throughout this busy day.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You’ll nd yourself in a position to appoint someone in an important role. To assess their potential, take a close look at their current performance. The evidence will speak for itself, and you can safely assume that what’s happening now will happen again later.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). The ways you protect yourself from the world will be highlighted. While some boundaries are essential, others might be keeping you from experiencing the joy and connection you deserve. Where can you open up more?
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). There’s a maddening paradox in play: While fairness may be a myth, so is futility. In the absence of justice, we can still act and nd meaning in the cracks. If nothing is fair, then we can build something even better: purpose.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’re a critical thinker, but you’re careful to communicate in an unfailingly constructive and supportive way, and even then, only when asked. People rarely follow the advice they asked for, and unsolicited advice goes straight to the mental trash bin.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). It’s a full day of back-to-back interactions, and your high energy will have you shining. You’ll seize the opportunity to uplift and inspire others, making a positive in uence on those lucky enough to cross your path. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). If a thing can’t be proven, why argue the matter? There’s a good reason. Because the discussion tells you something about the other person, their character, general communication style and what’s important to them.
■ SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin
■ SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
SUDOKU
Marshall
Continued from A1
Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco
“This project has been on our list since well before I started,” Marshall CEO Siri Nelson told the crowd outside Marshall’s Emergency Room entrance. In the works for at least ve years, the project o cially broke ground Thursday, Jan. 9.
A member of the construction crew measures the height of El Dorado County Fire Protection District’s newest re engine, making sure the new awning will have ample clearance.
e spacious Independent Living apartments at Ponté Palmero mean you can continue your independent lifestyle with room to entertain friends and access to all the life-enriching community services and amenities we o er.
Floor plans up to 1,482 square feet | Private, attached garage | Full kitchen | In-suite laundry
You can continue to cook and entertain in your own home, or enjoy our chef-prepared meals in the community dining room with friends. We take away the worry of housekeeping and home maintenance, and provide social opportunities all month long. You can relax and spend your days with friends and family, and doing the things you enjoy most.
INDEPENDENT LIVING HOMES FEATURES
• Kitchen with full-size appliances and granite counters
• Private patio
• Attached garage
• In-home washer and dryer
• High ceilings
• Housekeeping, laundry, and trash service
• Basic cable and utilities included — stay warm this winter!
• Pets welcome
COMMUNITY SERVICES & AMENITIES
• Restaurant-style dining
• Swimming pool, hot tub, and outdoor grills
• Clubhouse and tness center
• Library and full-service beauty salon
• Activities, clubs, outings, and celebrations
• Transportation services
• 24-hour emergency maintenance
• Gated electronic entrance
We also o er Assisted Living Villas & Memory Care apartments for a full continuum of care.
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
Stellar students
Congratulations to Luke Baco of Shingle Springs, who was recently named to the Oregon Institute of Technology President’s List.
Congratulations to Alexandra Nichols of Cameron Park, who was recently named to the Trine University Dean’s List.
Congratulations to Georgia Newquist of El Dorado Hills, who was recently named to the Samford University Dean’s List.
Congratulations to Sherri Kneebone of Cameron Park, who was recently named to the Missouri State University Dean’s List.
Congratulations to Claire Zufelt of Shingle Springs, who was recently named to the Utah Tech University Dean’s List.
Jan. 15
Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents San Francisco Falun Buddha Study Association’s Shen Yun 2025, China Before Communism. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents “The White Chip” by Sean Daniels at The So a in Sacramento at 6:30 p.m. Critically acclaimed for its wicked sense of humor and honest look at addiction. Multiple showings through Feb. 9. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre. org.
Jan. 16
Join the El Dorado County Chamber Chamber of Commerce for its monthly business luncheon. This month hear from District 5 Assemblymember Joe Patterson at the Koto Bu et at Red Hawk Casino from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. $18 for chamber members and $23 for non-members. Register at eldoradocounty. org.
Build better balance at a yoga workshop, 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Main Street Yoga, 447 Main St., Placerville. Assess your risk of falling and learn exercises for retaining and regaining better balance. Take-home exercises will help you continue to build strength and balance on your own. Diana Sherer, a certi ed senior yoga instructor, leads this workshop, essential for staying safe during your golden years. Sign up at mainstyoga.com, mindbody. com or call (530) 864-6144.
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.
Fast Times will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar 8 p.m. to midnight For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
Jonny Mojo & Friends Play Dead will perform from 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek presents The Beatles’ “White Album” live and complete with an all-star cast and Special Guest Sal Valentino. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and show starts at 8 p.m. For tickets
FUTURE OF FORESTRY
Local students get hands-on lessons during El Dorado Forestry Challenge
Diane Dealey Neill Forestry Educators Incorporated
Atotal of 139 high school students from 17 schools in Sacramento and the Sierra Nevada foothills participated in the 2024 El Dorado Forestry Challenge. Among the group El Dorado High School sent 12 students, 14 students came from Oak Ridge High School and five students trekked from Ponderosa High School. The event took place from Oct. 23-26 at Leoni Meadows Camp near Grizzly Flat.
One of the highlights for the students this year was the opportunity to collect data at the American River Conservancy’s Wells Preserve near Somerset to assess its health and recommend actions to restore its ecological function to contribute to the health of the Cosumnes River watershed. During the challenge, teams of students also completed a field test to assess their technical forestry knowledge and data collecting skills.
“This is such a formative experience for students, developing their understanding about the complexity of forest management and conservation in a short period of time. I will always attend this event and bring as many students as possible,” said El Dorado High School teacher Krista Potter.
Tyler Buszkiewicz, a senior at El Dorado, summed it up as, “Forestry Challenge has been one of the greatest opportunities in my life and has led me to make many friends. If I had any advice for students interested in the environment it would be to do the Forestry Challenge.”
“The Forestry Challenge allows students to take the concepts from science class and apply them to our most vital natural resources. The outdoor setting and hands-on learning are a refreshing break from the digital overload students often experience,” said Oak Ridge High School teacher Ryan Madsen.
Emi Madsen, a sophomore at Oak Ridge, shared, “At Forestry Challenge, it’s fun to connect with students from around the state while creating solutions that could impact future generations.”
“This is truly one of the best hands-on and industry-based events for students to participate in. I look forward to students working with forestry professionals and learning how to manage our natural resources,” said Ponderosa High School teacher Bret Harnden.
Liam Jenkins, a sophomore at Ponderosa, added, “I learned a lot about general forestry practices through many di erent teambuilding exercises.”
Courtesy photos
Ponderosa High School student Liam Jenkins uses a clinometer to measure the height of a tree,
one of the many skills learned at the 2024 El Dorado Forestry
Challenge near Grizzly Flat.
The PHS Forestry Challenge team, from left: Uriel Huerta-Morales, Kacie Harnden, Alex Chavez, Liam Jenkins, Fox Crane and Bret Harnden.
The EDHS Forestry Challenge team, front row, left to right: Bailey Bowers, Archer Kliebe, Whit Adams, Tyler Buszkiewicz and Brooke Bowers, Back row, left to right: Mary Fregeau, Troy McIntosh, Eden Cowdrey, Maggie McGaughey, Erin Levinson, Isaac Gautschi, Dylan Wolfe, Trent Tiessen and Krista Potter.
The ORHS Forestry Challenge team, front row, left to right: Joelle Nyquist, Siri Aloot, Rachel Bills, Emi Madsen. Middle row, left to right: Thomas Capelli, Bailey VanLeemput, Dax Whann, Nolan Maier, William Min, Rocco Danielson and Julie Madsen. Back row, left to right: Adam Kraft, Owen Kraft, Isaac Briggs, Ryan Madsen and Travis Thomas.
RASS VALLEY — InConcert Sierra presents the renowned Escher String Quartet, joined by two extraordinary guest artists with deep family ties to the ensemble. This performance blends world-class artistry and personal connections at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 19.
The Escher String Quartet, recognized as a BBC New Generation Artist and recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant, has taken the classical music world by storm. With performances ranging from the BBC Proms at Cadogan Hall to the role as season artists at the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center in New York City, the quartet has earned international acclaim for technical mastery and emotive performances.
Joining the quartet are two distinguished musicians well-known to InConcert Sierra audiences, violist Connie Kupka and cellist David Speltz. Both serve as principals of the ICS Orchestra and are the proud parents of Escher members Brooke (cello) and Brandon (violin) Speltz, making this performance an ultimate family affair.
Coincidentally, the Escher String Quartet last performed for InConcert Sierra on Jan. 19, 2020 — exactly five years ago to the day of this upcoming concert. That program showcased Schubert’s String Quintet with cellist David Speltz joining the quartet. This time, the family affair has expanded into a sextet.
David brings a wealth of experience, having served as a member of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra under Sir Neville Marriner and principal cellist of the California Chamber Orchestra. As a studio musician, he contributed to the soundtracks of more than 1,000 Hollywood films during his career. Kupka, equally accomplished, toured extensively with many orchestras and chamber groups, including the Arriaga Quartet founded by herself and David. She recently retired after 30 years with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra.
The program opens with two cornerstones of the quartet repertoire: Mendelssohn’s Andante & Scherzo, Op. 81, and Samuel Barber’s String Quartet in B Minor, Op. 11, best known for the
Sugarloaf Mountain
At just half a mile, Sugarloaf Mountain Trail may be brief, but it offers one of the best views in Nevada City. When your day is filled with “have-tos” — errands, appointments and obligations — why not carve out some time for a “want-to” and visit this scenic spot off Coyote Street? It’s the perfect place to recharge and take in the natural beauty of Nevada County. Have you visited Sugarloaf Mountain?
Share your photos using #DayHikerCA.
A triumph of conservation
This 30-acre preserve is another success story by the Bear Yuba Land Trust, ensuring the community has access to nature. The wide, flat trail ascends
at a moderate grade, leading you to the summit where benches await. From there, you can gaze out over the charming town below or take in the sweeping mountain and canyons. It’s an ideal spot for a quick escape and a peaceful break from your busy day.
A springtime haven
In spring, the trail comes alive with wildflowers and a variety of insects. On my last visit I spotted four
intensely emotional and gorgeous “Adagio for Strings” in its second movement.
The Speltz parents join in for Strauss’ String Sextet from Capriccio, Opus 85. Known as the exquisite instrumental prelude to his final opera, the late-Romantic work is brimming with lush harmonies.
The second half will showcase the famous Tchaikovsky sextet, “Souvenir de Florence, Op. 70” of which Tchaikovsky himself wrote, “There must be six independent and at the same time homogeneous parts … it is frightfully difficult!”
“I love bringing interesting connections to our season programming. Not only are David and
Connie dear friends and colleagues, they are outstanding performers who introduced us to their sons who just happen to perform in one of the toptier chamber ensembles of the world. To have all of them on stage together is uniquely spectacular,” said Ken Hardin, ICS artistic director.
“I can’t think of anything more fulfilling and emotionally satisfying than performing great music with my sons, and on such a high level to boot,” said David.
The quartet is named after graphic artist
M.C. Escher who is noted for his “impossible
species of butterflies in just a short time. Despite its short length, Sugarloaf Mountain’s natural beauty makes it a popular destination. I was alone until I reached the summit,
where a departing family crossed paths with me. On my way down, I passed two more families enjoying the trail. Have you noticed how the energy shifts when you reach the top?
How to get to Sugarloaf Mountain
To reach Sugarloaf
Mountain:
• Take Interstate 80 to Highway 49 toward Grass Valley.
• Just past Grass
Valley and Nevada City, Highway 49 veers left toward Downieville.
• The first road to the right after the turn is Coyote Street.
• Follow Coyote Street almost to the top, where it meets North Bloomfield. Look for space on the roadside to park (room for three to four cars). Across the street, a sign marks the entrance to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Tips for your visit
• Seasonal advice: Spring is an excellent time to visit, as the flowers bloom and butterflies fill the air. Fall is also beautiful, with crisp air and golden leaves. Bring a camera to capture the scenery and wildlife.
• Local insight: Be sure to take in the history of Nevada City from the summit. It’s a town rich with Gold
EDCAR, food bank partnership stays strong
For over 20 years, the Food Bank of El Dorado County and the El Dorado County Association of Realtors have teamed up for the holiday CanTree celebration. This long-standing event, supported by local Realtors as well as mortgage and title companies, has become a cherished tradition.
The Food Bank is honored to receive a $13,000
donation from EDCAR this year. Thanks to this partnership, countless families were able to have food on their tables during the holidays and throughout the year.
The CanTree celebration is more than just an event, it’s a symbol of community spirit and generosity. For more information contact the Food Bank of El Dorado County at (530) 621-9950 or info@foodbankedc.org.
Mary West Outdoor columnist
Photo by Mary West
Enjoy the view from the Sugarloaf Mountain Trail in Nevada City.
Photo by Anna Kariel
The Escher String Quartet has earned international acclaim for technical mastery and emotive performances. See the group live at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Grass Valley.
NEW ZEALAND – One night in April, Inky the octopus slipped silently out of his ________ at New Zealand’s National Aquarium.
Once out of the tank, Inky _______ across the floor to a six-inch-wide drain. He squeezed his football-sized body through the drain which took him into the Pacific Ocean. And nobody has _______ Inky since that night! !
An octopus has a ________ body and can squeeze its body into very small spaces. In the sea, they like to live ________ in small caves, spaces under rocks or even in pottery that falls from passing __________.
Inky was added to the aquarium in 2014. He had been injured when he was caught in a crayfish pot.
The aquarium staff followed his little suction cup ____________ to discover that Inky had escaped through a small gap at the top of his tank.
Octopuses are very ________________ to keep in aquariums. If they get bored, they start to take things ___________. In 2009, an octopus at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium in California took apart a valve and caused a flood. Another octopus took apart a little robot ___________________ that was in its tank.
and little robot
Ate and Eight
Eight Arms or Legs?
An octopus has eight arms … or are they legs? Scientists think two of the limbs act as legs, and the rest more like arms.
These limbs are called tentacles. Each tentacle has two rows of suckers that sense taste. If an octopus loses a tentacle, it can grow a new one!
and see if you can find each of these shapes: Can you follow the inky trail to help this octopus find her cave?
Usually, an octopus is brown. But if it gets angry or scared, it changes color depending upon the mood. And it also can change colors to blend in with rocks, coral, sand and more. This is called camouflage (kam-O-flawj). Color each little octopus so it matches the background to hide.
The noun valve means a mechanical device that controls the movement of liquid, gas or loose material and may be controlled by a moveable part.
We opened the valve to allow the water to drain.
Try to use the word
in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members.
Pretend you have a pet octopus. Describe what life is like with this
© 2016 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 32, No. 45
Hardwood cuttings
LSue McDavid UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County
ike just about everything else, buying plants has become more and more expensive, so why not make your own? Propagating plants using hardwood cuttings is easy, costs next to nothing except your time and gives you pleasure in creating a mature plant from a small, bare stem. There is a short window of time right now to do this, so let’s get started. First, it is important to understand a couple of basic principles of plant propagation. There are only two plant propagation methods: sexual, from seed, or vegetative, from plant parts. The production of a seed depends on pollen fertilizing an egg cell, so every seed carries the genetic characteristics of both parents. Therefore, seedlings can vary greatly in hardiness, size and flower color. Gardeners talk about plants not coming true and this is why.
On the other hand, vegetative, or asexual propagation, will produce plants that are identical in every way to the parent plant. Entire books have been written about plant propagation but this article will deal with vegetative or asexual propagation only, namely hardwood cuttings from dormant plants, which is by far the easiest method of propagating plants.
Since it is winter now, deciduous plants have very hardened stems and branches that do not bend easily and are without leaves, so there is no need for a high humidity environment. Use sharp, clean
pruners to take 6- to 8-inch-long cuttings about a pencil-width in diameter from stems on the plants you want to propagate. Make note of which end is up; upside-down cuttings won’t root. It can sometimes be difficult to tell on a leafless cutting, but the leaf buds on the stem usually point upward. I cut a stem straight across just below a leaf node at the bottom and angle the cut at the top to help identify the top and bottom. The cuttings can be put right into the ground or
a container filled with soil medium if you are only doing a few. Keep the soil moist if there is no rain and just let them be until spring. You can tell if a cutting has rooted by gently tugging on it; if it resists, there are usually roots forming. It will be a while before your cutting looks like a mature plant, but it will eventually. When the cutting is ready to be dug out and planted, do not pull it out of the ground or container; dig it up around the root ball. Some plants that are very easily propagated from hardwood cuttings include hydrangea, forsythia, butterfly bush, spirea and crape myrtle, to name just a few.
If you want to learn more, plan to attend the free Asexual Propagation public education class presented by the Master Gardeners on Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Placerville Library, 345 Fair Lane, from 9 a.m. to noon.
Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. You can find a schedule at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/Calendar/ and recorded classes on many gardening topics here: mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Public_Education/Classes.
The Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open, weather permitting, on the first Saturday of the month, through February, 9 a.m. to noon. First Saturday tour starts promptly at 9 a.m. Please check the website for further information about activities at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden at ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden.
Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the Ask a Master Gardener option on mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Ask_a_Master_Gardener or leave a message at (530) 621-5512. For more information on the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County visit mgeldorado.ucanr.edu. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
Raley’s announces new Food for Families grants program
WEST SACRAMENTO — To assist with the ongoing challenge of safely storing, transporting and distributing food, Raley’s is introducing a new Food for Families grant program for its partner food banks and supporting networks.
Starting at a minimum of $5,000 each, the grants will reflect a wide range of funding depending on the demonstrated need of the requesting food bank. The new Food for Families Grant program is made possible by Raley’s and donations from
FOOD
throughout the community. Donations are being gratefully accepted now at the Sacramento Region Community Foundation site to support this important initiative that represents an expansion of the long-time Food for Families effort.
Raley’s Food for Families, their nonprofit converts customer and team members donations into food for more than 2.2 million people each month through 12 partner food banks in the communities where Raley’s serves.
“For years, Raley’s customers have provided unwavering support
with their generous donations to our Food for Families program. Through experience with our ongoing programs, we recognized the need to further support the crucial food distribution needs within our existing food bank family,” said Chelsea Carbahal, executive director, Raley’s Food For Families. “This new Food for Families grant program will enable our current partners to more effectively and efficiently serve their communities by equipping them with resources that otherwise may have been out of reach financially.” Grant funds will help support food
bank necessities, such as refrigerators, freezers, warehouse racking, transportation crates, shipping vehicles and other infrastructure items required to safely provide food to communities. Grant applications are accepted now through Feb. 7, with application forms provided directly to and through Raley’s Food for Families food bank partners to their partner agencies.
“Our goal at Raley’s is to help get food in the hands of as many people in need as possible,” said Carbahal.
n See GRANTS, page B5
Savory Meets Spicy
FAMILY FEATURES
Football watch parties, family dinners and cold days that call for warm meals – all perfect occasions for a hearty bowl of this Barbecue Chili from “Cookin’ Savvy.” Serving 8-10 people, it’s a perfect fit for a crowd or saving leftovers to make weeknight dinners a breeze.
Find more soup, stew and chili recipes at Culinary.net.
Barbecue Chili
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 8-10
1 pork loin (2-3 pounds)
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chilies
2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
1 cup water
1 can (29 ounces) tomato sauce
2 cans (27 ounces each) chili beans
1 package chili seasoning
1 tablespoon barbecue seasoning
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder salt, to taste pepper, to taste sour cream, for serving shredded cheddar cheese, for serving corn chips, for serving
Place pork loin in slow cooker. Cover with diced tomatoes and green chilies,
1 cup barbecue sauce and water; cook on low 4-6 hours.
Cut up cooked meat and place in Dutch oven along
with juices from slow cooker. Add remaining barbecue sauce, tomato sauce, chili beans, chili seasoning, barbecue seasoning, onion powder and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Cook over medium heat 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese and corn chips.
Tip: Add can of beans if serving bigger crowd.
Pixabay image
Asexual propagation is an easy way to add more plants in your garden.
Know Continued from B1 and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheater.com.
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays” by Ken Ludwig through Feb. 16. The danger and hilarity are non-stop in this glittering whodunit set during the Christmas holidays in 1936. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
The Sofia in Sacramento presents award-winning jazz artist Henry Robinett. Doors open at 6 p.m. show starts at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
Now
The Sacred Arts of Tibet Tour of Gaden Shartse Norling Monastery continues in Folsom, through Jan. 18. Check out the full schedule of events at placervillefriendsoftibet.org.
The California Museum presents Pleibol! In the Barrios and the Big Leagues through Jan. 19. For more information visit californiamuseum.org.
Watercolor Artists of Sacramento Horizons is accepting submissions for the AWASH with Color 47th annual Members Watercolor Exhibition — open to all watercolor artists ages 18 or older who are current members of WASH and Sacramento Fine Arts. Submissions accepted through Feb. 1 at 6 p.m. For more details visit sacramentowatercolor.org.
Registration for the The Travis Scott Memorial 5k Walk/Run for Shatterproof is open through Feb. 23. The run will take place at the El Dorado trailhead in Camino. The event starts at 9 a.m. and registration is available in person. For more information or to register early visit shatterproofcyof.donordrive.com.
Rush heritage. Imagine what the pioneers must have seen from this very spot.
• What’s your favorite spot along the trail? Share your thoughts on social media and don’t forget to tag @MaryWestHikes.
Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a
constructions.” The quartet is also known for their impossible constructions due to their simultaneous showcasing of each instrument’s part while melding them into one, for a remarkable sound.
Learn more about the family Speltz and the Escher String Quartet members at the pre-concert forum 45 minutes prior to the concert, facilitated by Hardin.
Since its founding in 1946, InConcert Sierra has played a vital role in the cultural landscape of the Sierra Nevada region, celebrating the arts and making classical music a vital part of the community. The organization offers outreach
Grants
Continued from B4
“We know the food that we and our food bank partners provide is only helpful if there is a means to safely store and distribute it. This new Food for Families grant funding effort is all about growing the positive impact in our communities and helping provide the physical means to do so.”
Raley’s anticipates awarding up to $500,000 in grant funding in the first year of the new program. Grant funding will be made available in two waves, including this current grant application phase and another scheduled for later in the year. The Food for Families grant program is available to Raley’s Food for Families food bank partners and their expansive network of more than 2,400 partner agencies, such as
collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
programs, educational opportunities, and collaborations with local schools and organizations to inspire a passion for classical music. ICS is currently constructing the Crown Point Venues that will include a new acoustic concert hall, conference center and black box theater.
Escher String Quartet with guests David Speltz, cello, and Connie Kupka, viola, takes place at 2 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 19, with a 1:15 p.m. pre-concert forum — all at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, 12889 Osborne Hill Road in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information call (530) 273-3990 ir visit inconcertsierra.org.
smaller food banks, food closets and church distribution sites. Growing from a single store opening in 1935, The Raley’s Companies now includes brick and mortar locations under Raley’s and Bashas’ family of brands, including: Raley’s, Bel Air, Nob Hill, Raley’s ONE Market, Bashas’, Food City, AJ’s Fine Foods, and Bashas’ Diné Markets. In addition to the special hurricane relief efforts, The Raley’s Companies are deeply committed to giving back by addressing local hunger needs, advocating for good and focusing on child welfare, the environment and sustainability, food access, food system education and total wellness. For more information visit raleys. com/giving/food-for-families.
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