Mountain Democrat, Friday, January, 24, 2025

SPECIAL SERVICE

■ Tip-A-Cop event benefits Special Olympics

Special Olympians Josh Rojas, Adam Fraser, both of Placerville, and Logan Wright of El Dorado worked alongside El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf and several deputies, serving delicious food and beverages to patrons of Wally’s Pizza in Cameron Park on Jan.

21. Customers who mentioned Special

Angeles. The large wildfires have displaced tens of thousands of people, with more than 50,000 people under evacuation orders and warnings due to the Hughes Fire alone. Including damage from the Palisades and Eaton fires, as well as multiple smaller fires, more than 15,000 structures are reported destroyed and at least 28 people are confirmed dead.

Parking, affordable housing topics emerge in fair presentation

Jo Carrerow Mountain Democrat correspondent

A presentation on the El Dorado County Fair Association budget and fiveyear Strategic Plan at a Jan. 7 meeting transitioned into a discussion of a dire need for more parking at the fairgrounds. So much so that the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors planned to set up an ad hoc committee to explore parking lot options. That committee will also discuss other topics, including an a ordable housing apartment complex scheduled to begin construction this fall near the fairgrounds, at public meetings to be

scheduled.

Fair Association CEO Kathy Dunkak said she struggles with not being able to rent out multiple buildings at once for events, or accommodate large events during the fair’s o season.

“It’s not maximizing our facility to its fullest,” she explained. “There’s well over 100 events held (annually) on the fairgrounds, more than 1,500 people staying in hotels and more than 200,000 people coming through our gates.”

In addition to parking, the fair has a shuttle, paid for with a grant from the Air Quality Management District and a transit works grant, that is much needed during

the fair.

“Without that shuttle, it would be a real bummer,” Dunkirk said.

But, she said more parking is needed for larger private and nonprofit events that take place when the fair is not in session.

The parking lot also has another use. During wildfires like the 2024 Crozier Fire, fire camps are set up at the fairgrounds.

“There is not enough parking for fire camp,” District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin said. “It’s huge. It is this whole community that gets built on the fairgrounds. And

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

Sheriff’s deputy Kyle Emmitt, Special Olympian Adam Fraser, 40, of Placerville and Shield K-5 Community Outreach Deputy Keith Dougherty, left to right, serve food to patrons at Wally’s Pizza in Cameron Park on Tuesday to help raise funds for Special Olympics of Northern California.

Debra and Scott Spellman of Cameron Park, left, make a donation to Special Olympics of Northern California after being served beverages by Special Olympians Logan Wright, center, and Adam Fraser and El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf.

Shelly Thorene Staff writer

ESSENTIALS

Thomas A. Matassa

Jan. 12, 1922 – Jan. 19, 2025

Gary Lee Torgerson Jr.

Sept. 20, 1956 – Dec. 13, 2024

Thomas A. Matassa, Lt/ Col Ret. USAF, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025. He leaves behind four children: Kenneth Matassa, Sylvia Matassa, Christine Matassa, and Mark Matassa; four grandchildren: Jesse, Missy, Mikey, and Tommy as well as eight greatgrandchildren and one great-great grandchild. (He was preceded in death by his daughter, Tina Marie (Matassa) (Fenocchio.) Thomas served faithfully in the United States Air Force during Vietnam, Korea, and WWII (where his crew was shot down in Nazi occupied France and escaped with the help of the French Underground.) After his retirement from the Air Force, Tom designed and built his “dream” home in Shingle Springs where he lived for 50 years. During that time, he also went back to college at California State University in Sacramento and earned two Masters degrees in the field of Health Sciences. In his spare time between college classes and building the house, Tom also kept a garden and an orchard of fruit trees. He had a green thumb and could grow anything, including watermelon in his compost pile — a long-standing family joke. We had tomatoes, bell peppers, fresh sweet basil, peaches, apples, pomegranates, grapes, boysenberries and zucchini — oh the zucchini, lots and lots of zucchini. Tom was an amazing man and could do almost anything. He will be sorely missed by those of us who had come to rely on his advice and help. Services will be held at the Sacramento Valley Military Cemetery in Dixon on January 30, 2025 at 10:30 AM.

James Husak

Aug. 28, 1972 – Jan. 2, 2025

On January 2nd 2025 James Husak left us. He was my knight in shining armor and my best friend for 32 years of my life. We raised two children Amethyst and Jasmine, 4 grand babies, Syrna, Kura, Mykel, and Bradly II. James was an UPS driver for 30 years. He loved to help people and go beyond and above. He loved fishing. Survived by his siblings John, Debbie, Steve, and Lynnette. He will be missed and the light of our lives. He’ll watch over all his loved ones and friends. R.I.P. My love. Celebration of life will be held on January 26th.

Dr. Harriet Lynn Drummer, DO

Dec. 29, 1942 – Dec. 27, 2024

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

Gary Lee Torgerson, Jr. was born on September 20, 1956 and was raised in Medina, OH. He moved to Southern California in the early 1980’s where he managed an auto parts store and raised his two children, Todd and Brittany, until beginning his Brush Plating Specialist business. After a while, he longed for the mountains and a quiet place to raise his two youngest children, Eric and Jasmyn, so he decided to move to Garden Valley. If you knew him, you understood that he lived life to the fullest, found fun in the mundane and shared it with anyone willing to join him. He enjoyed playing music, riding dirt bikes, golfing, paper airplane races, and a good conversation. His laughter and positivity were infectious to all around him. His most loving trait was his non-judgmental advice, and willingness to help any loved one in need. He passed away on December 13, 2024, and is survived his four children Todd, Brittany, Eric, and Jasmyn, daughter in law Rachel, two grandchildren Charlotte and Josh, brothers Daryl and Dana, sisters Tina and Lisa, parents Gary and Martha, and many more loving family members and friends. There will be a celebration of life for him on September 20th.

Joslyn Mae Walthers

March 5, 2010 – Jan. 1, 2025

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.

Darryl Brown

March 15, 1966 – Oct. 17, 2024

Darryl Brown was born in 1966 at Marshall Hospital in Placerville and passed from this earth on October 17, 2024 after a four year battle with cancer. He is predeceased by his father, Lawrence A. Brown, Jr., and his sister Eileen Brown. He is survived by his mother, Frances Brown, his sisters Katharine Garrison (Dennis), and Mary Bourriague (Marc). He was also a beloved uncle to Casey, Russell and Melissa Garrison.

A true son of El Dorado County, he graduated from El Dorado High School in 1984, then attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to be an engineer. Each summer he returned to Placerville to work for Gordon Vicini at Joe Vicini, Inc. Upon graduation from Cal Poly, he began work at Yuba City as an agricultural engineer. He left Yuba City to be near family in Placerville when his father became ill. Darryl was devoted to his family at every turn. Once again he worked for Gordon Vicini. Later he went to work as an engineer for Inyo county, but when the opportunity arose to return to El Dorado County, he worked for the county as an engineer. Darryl was a renaissance man; his interests were many and he pursued them all with passion. He was a Harley Davidson enthusiast, having taken many long journeys with friends. He was a musician and played guitar for the Cowboy Neal band; he was an excellent skier, as well as an amateur photographer. He volunteered with the Vicini family for the Boys and Girls Club, and he bought 4-H animals each year at the Junior Livestock Auction. He was devoted to his family, friends and community all his life.

There will be a celebration of Darryl’s life on April 5, 2025 at 2pm at the American Legion Hall, #119 on Greenstone Road in Placerville. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Placerville at 2840 Mallard Lane, Placerville, CA 95667, or the charity of your choice would be a wonderful way to honor Darryl’s life.

Gregory Wayne Moseley

Jan. 6, 1984 – Jan. 13, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gregory Wayne Moseley at the age of 41. Greg passed away on January 13, 2025. Born on January 6, 1984, in Placerville, California, Greg was the beloved son of Linda and Gary Moseley. He grew up in Placerville, surrounded by family, including his siblings, cousins, and many close friends who cherished his kindness, humor, and unwavering loyalty. Greg graduated from Union Mine High School in 2002 and selflessly enlisted in the United States Navy, where he dedicated nearly 20 years of service to his country. He rose through the ranks to Equipment Operator Chief Petty O cer, and was known for his exceptional leadership and commitment. During his distinguished career, Greg was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, multiple Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and completed several deployments in support of the Global War on Terrorism, including combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was deeply respected by those who served with him, leaving behind a legacy of pride, professionalism, and integrity. Outside of his military service, Greg was a passionate outdoorsman, finding joy in fishing, camping, and the beauty of nature. His love for the outdoors was something he shared with his family, and it was during these moments in nature that his true spirit shined. Greg is survived by his sons, Jameson Moseley and Carter Wissinger; his parents, Linda and Gary Moseley; his siblings, Jason Warden, Katherine McLoed, Marilyn Lewin, and Jessica Moseley; as well as his nieces and nephews: Madison, Savanna, and Dennis Warden; Carson and Kinzlie McLoed; Ellanna Lewin; and numerous cousins, aunts, uncles, and close friends who will always carry his memory. A Memorial Service to celebrate Greg’s life will be held on February 1, 2025, at Saureel Vineyards, located at 1140 Cold Springs Road, Placerville, CA 95667. The service will begin at 11:00 AM, followed by a luncheon. All are welcome to join in honoring Greg’s life and the impact he made on those around him. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Wheelers for the Wounded of California, a cause that was near to Greg’s heart. Donations can be mailed to PO Box 771, Diamond Springs, CA 95619. Greg will be dearly missed by all who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and fellow service members.

Susan Margaret Meyer

July 19, 1943 – Jan. 10, 2025

Susan Margaret Meyer was born on July 19, 1943 in San Mateo, California to parents Dean and Mary Frizzell. At the age of two, Susan and her parents moved to Placerville, California, where she remained until her passing at her ranch surrounded by her family and friends. Susan graduated from El Dorado High School in 1961, where she made life-long friendships. On May 4, 1963, she married Carlan Meyer and together their union lasted 59 years, which included 3 children: Monica Meyer Huston (Scott) and Veronica Meyer Morgan (Jim) and Michael Meyer (Lori). Later, she was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 13 greatgrandchildren, who all loved her dearly. Susan was employed with the Placerville Union School District for 29 years and during the summer she would work as a clerk at the El Dorado County Fair. Prior to Susan’s passing, she was deeply devoted to her community. As a teenager she volunteered as a Candy Striper at Marshall Hospital, President of Marshall Hospital Auxiliary, Active member of St. Patrick’s Ladies Society, Friends of Hospice, Ladies Volunteer Fireman Auxiliary, Farm Bureau, Member of the Placerville Fruit Growers Association, El Dorado High School Alumni, 4-H Leader, Farm Trails Member and the Livestock Auction Committee. Susan was preceded in death by her husband, Carlan V. Meyer: parents Dean and Mary A. Frizzell and her younger brother, Earl Frizzell. In Susan’s honor, there was a Rosary at 10:30 am followed by Mass at 11 am. Burial was followed at St. Patrick Cemetery on January 23rd.

OBITUARIES

Richard Valton Humphrey

May 20, 1946 – Nov. 29, 2024 Richard, also known as R.V., passed away at home with family by his side. He left us after a long battle with cancer and other illnesses. His early childhood was spent in Winters, CA where he was born, and lived until the age of 10. At that time his family relocated to Vacaville, CA. He graduated from Vacaville High School in 1964. Richard married the love of his life, Joan, in 1975. They lived in Sacramento until 1978 when they moved to Shingle Springs, where they enjoyed living for the next 46 years. For most of his life Richard worked in the construction industry. First building mobile homes, and then making custom doors for 30 years, including owning his own business. He also became a professional horseshoer in 1985, and was a volunteer fireman for the Shingle Springs Volunteer Fire Department for many years. His passions were spending time with his family and friends, collecting, restoring, and showing classic cars, and camping, hiking, and horseback riding in the Sierras. He also loved to travel and he and his wife enjoyed over 30 cruises together. Also traveling to Ireland and the U.K. Richard is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joan, and their beloved daughters Desiree, Deanna and Laura. Also his brother Ron, sister Brenda, nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Richard and Wilma Humphrey and brother Robbie. A Celebration of Life service will be held on January 31, 2025 at the Shingle Springs Community Center at 1:00 pm.

Robert Earl Perkins

Aug. 15, 1942 – Dec. 14, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father Robert Earl Perkins who left us December 14, 2024. Robert is survived by his devoted son Daric Perkins, his loving daughter Lisa Lubinski, and his best friend and sister Patricia Crabb. Bob embraced the beauty of nature and animals, Robert found solace in the great outdoors. He was an avid hunter and cherished every moment he spent outdoors. Bob also enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycles, feeling the thrill of the open road beneath him. He was known for his beautiful knife making skills and often seen handing out candies to friends and strangers alike, spreading joy wherever he went. Robert took immense pride in his surroundings. Many will remember him walking along the Pony Express Trail, tirelessly picking up the trash and caring for the environment he loves so dearly. His dedication to maintaining the beauty and the landscape inspired those around him to appreciate and protect the world we live in. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the local animal shelter in Robert’s memory. Rest in Peace Dad.

LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES

ONI KAI NINJUTSU

the no-ego dojo now open in Pollock Pines

Odin Rasco Senior sta writer

Stepping into Oni Kai Ninjutsu for the first time, it’s hard not to notice how di erent it feels from other martial arts dojos visitors might be used to or expect. The recently opened Pollock Pines dojo isn’t filled with instructors shouting in Japanese, students aren’t decked out in the nearly-ubiquitous white gi uniforms and the music playing through the speakers isn’t from some “sounds of the dojo” cd; it’s songs by Rush.

Owner Adam McKinley wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I think a lot of what’s holding martial arts back, one of the things that we can see as a reason for why karate classes and things like that are getting less popular, is because they are so set in their ways,” McKinley explained. “I want to open my doors to people who don’t feel like they’d fit into those spaces. I’m here to teach, to help. I just want you to think of me as a coach while you follow your path.”

McKinley studied martial arts while he grew up outside of Reno, studying in a neighbor’s garage because that was what he had available. For a long time, that might have been it; McKinley moved on with his life, staying interested in martial arts but not eyeing it as a career. But when COVID-19 lockdowns sent everyone back to their homes, he decided he’d put more time into martial arts again. That decision proved providential; rather than stepping into martial arts popularity, he came in with a spin kick.

“COVID happened, the world stopped and then everything existed on the internet,” McKinley recalled. “I thought, why not post some of my martial

O St., Suite 7240 Sacramento 95814 (916) 651-4004

District O ce 4364 Town Center Blvd., Suite 313 El Dorado Hills 95762 (916) 933-8680 EL DORADO IRRIGATION DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2890 Mosquito Road, Placerville (530) 622-4513 Division 1: Paul Penn PPenn@EID.org Division 2: Pat Dwyer, PDwyer@EID.org Division 3: Chuck Mans eld, CMans eld@EID.org Division 4: Lori Anzini, LAnzini@EID.org Division 5: Alan Day, ADay@EID.org

arts videos I was just shooting for fun up on the internet and things just kind of blew up.”

McKinley’s killer kicks caught the attention of actors/ martial artists who had once been idols to him, such as former “Karate Kid III” villain Sean Kanan and inspiration for the film “Bloodsport,” Frank Dux. McKinley would go on to meet both of these men and practice martial arts with them.

McKinley’s time in the martial arts world soured quickly, however, when

he found himself pulled into drama between factions of martial artists full of nasty comments, inappropriate behavior and inflated egos.

“I decided I couldn’t deal with that anymore,” McKinley explained. “I lost a lot of my reputation, ruined myself, defending a grown man who would call me up late at night telling me to get into arguments on his behalf. I felt like a pinball, with everyone just racking me everywhere, and I didn’t see the honor

and integrity I expected to see from martial artists.”

McKinley’s approach to teaching ninjutsu pulls from his lived experience while staying informed by his core philosophies. Techniques are taught in repetition to lock in the forms, but they’re done without wearing the typical martial arts gi. “When, in real life, are you going to get into a fight and be wearing it?”

The ninjutsu taught at Oni Kai isn’t just

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Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

Adam McKinley, above, recently opened Oni Kai Ninjutsu in Pollock Pines. He aims to have the concept dojo be a place where people can hone their skills while avoiding toxic elements they might encounter in other parts of the martial arts world. Below, McKinley stands in front of an impressive collection of martial arts certificates and accolades he’s collected over the years.

Mt. Murphy bridge reopened to vehicles

Mountain Democrat staff

Mt. Murphy Bridge is officially open to all traffic as of Jan. 22.

The historical bridge over the South Fork American River in Coloma was closed for 10 days after a vehicle damaged the structure’s side railing on Jan. 12. Pedestrians were permitted to use the bridge on Jan. 16 but El Dorado County Department of Transportation officials redirected vehicle traffic while they made minor repairs and worked with consultants to determine if any major repairs were needed.

“Thank you for your patience as the inspection and repairs were completed,” the EDC Department of Transportation – Maintenance Division posted on its Facebook page when announcing the bridge’s reopening.

Wildfire resiliency workshop coming to Placerville

Courtney Jackson El Dorado & Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation Districts

The El Dorado Resource Conservation District invites the community to attend an important public meeting on the Placerville Community Wildfire Resilience Strategy. This meeting will take place 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 29, at Placerville Town Hall, 549 Main St.

The public meeting will provide an overview of the wildfire resilience strategy that has been developed in collaboration with consultants WSP Inc., Spatial Informatics Group and Wildfire Services. Over the past year, these organizations have worked alongside the RCD to gather and analyze extensive data

during the fair horse trailers and vendors are coming and going. We need more parking.”

If parking spaces aren’t available, visitors park in the nearby Raley’s parking lot, according to District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo. The park and ride lot is used as well.

from public and private landowners, local organizations, and government agencies. By utilizing state-of-theart wildfire risk assessments and fire behavior modeling, the team has identified key areas where landscapelevel fire mitigation and fuel reduction projects are needed.

Highlights of the presentation include:

• Overview of the Placerville Community Wildfire Resilience Strategy.

• Current and proposed wildfire mitigation projects and strategies within the Placerville Project Study Area.

• A comprehensive model for future wildfire mitigation and landscapelevel fuel reduction efforts.

• Collaboration with the ongoing Community Wildfire Preparedness

District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine noted a $500,000 donation slated to pay for property for parking lot expansion. The funds came from an anonymous donor, according to Dunkak, who told the Mountain Democrat, “We do not have a particular parcel in mind, though

Plan update.

• Public input and community priorities collected through meetings, surveys, and the community participation map.

The Placerville Community Wildfire Resilience Strategy will serve as a blueprint for addressing the risks of wildfire in Placerville and surrounding areas. It is designed to protect approximately 13,865 habitable structures and significant historical assets, with a particular focus on safeguarding the city of Placerville, a designated California Historical Landmark. The strategy aligns with the efforts of local fire safe councils, the county and the city of Placerville, enhancing community resilience against future wildfires. This project is funded through

there are two (possibly three) within close enough proximity available for purchase. We will have to bring in additional funding for that purchase.”

Dunkak presented the 2025 fair budget to the board. The year the budget includes estimated unrestricted net resources of about $4.2 million, with proposed expenses of around $1.7 million.

Laine asked why the 2025 estimated resources, at $4.2 million, are so much higher than the proposed budget of $1.7 million.

“That’s what’s left over from ARPA funds,” Dunkak explained.

In late 2023 the EDCFA received an American Rescue Plan Act grant to line a culvert that runs the length of the fairgrounds due to flooding.

“It became complicated when it was determined it is a seasonal stream,” she said, adding that the Army Corps of Engineers and a USDA agency had to be brought in. The project was not going to be completed in time so the association decided to look at a new proposal.

“We backed out of that so the remaining funds could remain in El Dorado County for a trigger-ready project,” she said.

Parlin proposed holding an ad hoc meeting to address what happened with the ARPA grant and how best to move forward.

Another recent challenge Dunkak cited is that some of the fair’s providers are leaving California because of emission laws that limit the number of times trucks can travel in and out of the state. These include the tent, sound and some of the entertainment providers.

the Regional Forest and Fire Capacity Program, a California Natural Resources Agency initiative administered by the Department of Conservation and the Sierra Nevada Conservancy. The RCD is the lead program manager overseeing the development of this strategy.

Community involvement is essential to the success of wildfire mitigation efforts. The RCD encourages all residents to attend the meeting, share their insights, and contribute to the ongoing process of identifying and prioritizing community-specific needs.

For additional information about the Placerville Community Wildfire Resilience Strategy or to access project materials visit eldoradorcd. org/placerville-wildfire-resiliencestrategy.

livestock camping area to provide better access to events, repainted trim, purchased a new truck for the facilities department, replanted trees and replaced appliances.

Planned projects this year include painting the trim at the Placerville Speedway, upgrading more restrooms by the concessions, replacing office lights and flooring and re-working the Armory gate to redirect traffic for pedestrian safety.

The Armory property, next to the fairgrounds, has taken the forefront recently with an affordable housing project set to begin construction there this fall.

“They want to build a large apartment complex about 300 yards away from the speedway,” Dunkak said. “I’m really hopeful that this board can work with the state and come up with an alternative location for a project that our county desperately needs.”

The fair association has identified a couple other properties, according to Dunkak. She said she hopes the developer, Jamboree Housing Corporation, a nonprofit based in Irvine, would consider these parcels instead.

“More people oppose the Jamboree project than support it at the Armory location,” she shared.

Kris Payne, president of the Taxpayers Association of El Dorado County, suggested the county purchase land it may need.

“It seems like the purchase of those properties that are now available takes them out of possibly future development, high-density residential, and puts them into more communitybased public properties of which we can utilize effectively,” he said.

Operating revenues for 2025 are proposed to be more than $1.7 million, with most of it, 97.9%, fair association-raised funds and 2.1% state funds. Expenditures include administration at approximately $545,000, maintenance and general operations for about $767,000, publicity is nearly $64,000 and fair entertainment almost $138,000.

Fair revenue comes from things like admission charges proposed to be $370,000 in 2025, the carnival that’s estimated to bring in $250,000 and concessions, which should raise about $182,000 this year. Additional funds are raised by the El Dorado Fair Heritage Association, with the “Heritage Hog,” sold at the Junior Livestock Auction Saturday morning at the fair, a lasagna dinner and other donations.

Dunkak listed recent improvements, part of the five-year (2024-29) strategic plan, including replacing panels in the hog barn, show barn and soon the steer barn and sheep barn. They have laid new asphalt, upgraded restrooms to be ADA compliant, done dry rot repair, reduced the

District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp moved to form the ad hoc committee “for special items related to the fairgrounds and the county’s property.” Parlin seconded the motion. Veerkamp, Parlin, Laine, Turnboo and District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero unanimously approved the 2025 fair budgets and audit as well as the five-year strategic plan, with the addition of forming an ad hoc committee.

The El Dorado County Fair, at the County Fair & Event Center, 100 Placerville Drive, Placerville, will be held June 12-15. Among many other events, it will feature a tractor pull on Friday night, Johnny Studebaker wheelbarrow race on Saturday and the Rubicon Challenge on Sunday.

“The wheelbarrow races and Rubicon Challenge are both home grown events that you won’t find at another fair,” Dunkak said.

The full 2024 and 2025 fair budgets, the 2023 audit, and the fiveyear strategic plan can be viewed at eldoradocounty.ca.gov.

Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt

A vehicle makes its way over Mt. Murphy Bridge Thursday morning.

Tip-A-Cop Continued from A1

Olympics to wait staff had 15% of the total donated to Special Olympics of Northern California thanks to this Tip-A-Cop event.

“This is a great event and it’s the first time back since COVID,” said Wally’s co-owner Dan Dreher. “Special Olympics is a fantastic organization.”

As Leikauf assisted the Olympians serving customers, he told the Mountain Democrat he was “honored and excited that the event was back,” adding that his department “takes great pride in coming out and helping athletes.”

L.A. Fires Continued from A1

Given the size of the fires and their proximity to heavily populated areas, firefighting efforts have been tireless, drawing in crews from across the state and nation. More than 1,144 federal firefighters helped with the initial firefighting attacks and more than 8,700 cross-California firefighting resources have joined the fight, including crews from El Dorado County and Garden Valley fire protection districts, Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit and the El Dorado Hills Fire Department.

“Our thoughts are with all those affected by the devastating fires in Southern California,” EDCFPD Fire Chief Tim Cordero wrote. “I am incredibly proud of our local firefighters who responded to assist impacted communities, as well as those who remained here locally, working extended shifts to ensure our engines and ambulances remained fully staffed for our community. We are fortunate to have such a robust mutual aid system, with dedicated firefighters, to assist in these times of tragic fires and loss.”

An EDCFPD wildland fire engine crewed by firefighters from EDCFPD and Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District was sent out to the Eaton Fire at midnight on Jan. 7, becoming part of a strike team that primarily focused on structure defense. The strike team included other firefighters from the area, including some from Amador and the GVFPD.

A second EDCFPD wildland engine was sent to the Palisades Fire, also as part of a strike team. The team was comprised of firefighters from the Georgetown Fire Department, West Stanislaus Fire Protection District, North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (Nevada) and Storey County Fire Protection District (Nevada), with leaders from Fallen Leaf Lake Fire Protection District and Folsom Fire Department. The team was deployed out of Malibu and worked to defend structures in the Topanga and Greenwood communities; that team returned home last week.

El Dorado Hills Fire Department crews fought through extreme fire conditions and heavy winds for the first days on scene, according to interim Fire Chief Michael Lilienthal.

“Our firefighters worked tirelessly for the last two weeks protecting homes and property and helping the community,” Lilienthal shared.

“When a large disaster strikes anywhere in the state, your local firefighters are actively engaged in assisting other agencies. It is also important to note for the community that we do not decrease service when we send firefighters to other parts of the state. We hire other firefighters who are normally off duty to backfill behind the firefighters that leave our area. That way, we ensure constant reliable service delivery to the (residents) of our county.”

Diamond Springs-El Dorado FPD Capt. Spencer Morgan, part of the crew aboard Engine 328, responded to the Eaton Fire on Jan. 7 alongside crews from El Dorado Hills, Garden Valley, Jackson Valley, and Lockwood Fire. The group monitored reports of

Continued from A3

focused on the combat. Historically, ninja were information gatherers, and the importance of information is something McKinley highlights with the help from his wife, Dr. Ilona Koti, who has an extensive résumé in the world of diplomacy, cybersecurity and record-checking.

Class sessions are kept at an affordable price point to ensure local kids have the option to do something constructive with their time — McKinley’s way of giving back the same kindness his neighbor in Reno showed him. That same humility reflects in how the dojo looks, too; though McKinley has an impressive wall of certifications in martial arts, including a 5th Dan in Dux Ryu

Some customers were unaware of the fundraiser and wondered why there was so much law enforcement presence in the restaurant. Others mentioned they had heard of the event and were happy to support the organization. Special Olympics Coach Joey Reeder said money from this fundraiser go to the state fund for the summer games. “Where we (El Dorado County) get the benefit is from the Polar Plunge that occurs in November.”

For more information about Special Olympics of Northern California visit sonc.org.

fires burning in Los Angeles, noting how unusual the wildfires were this time of year. When the strike team arrived at the town of Altadena on the morning of Jan. 8, they had already been driving for hours but had no moment to rest before getting to work.

“The destruction and devastation we witnessed was staggering — homes, schools, churches and commercial buildings were either on fire or under imminent threat,” Capt. Morgan told the Mountain Democrat. “Our strike team went to work immediately, moving from street to street and house to house, doing everything we could to save as much as possible. We worked tirelessly alongside other crews throughout the night. For the rest of our deployment, we patrolled fire-impacted areas, checking for lingering hot spots and assisting community members whenever possible.

“The support from the community was nothing short of extraordinary. All day, people brought supplies and homemade food to the base camp to support the firefighters,” he continued. “Witnessing such incredible generosity and resilience from a community that had just endured such a tragedy was truly inspiring.”

Diamond Springs-El Dorado FPD also sent a division chief to fill the role of communications unit leader for Cal Fire’s Incident Management Team 4, according to EDCFPD Capt. Jacob Poganski. The team coordinates contingency resources in Southern California and serves as a mobilization center for out-of-state responders.

Capt. Poganski also went to Los Angeles to help fight the Palisades Fire and noted how the fires in Southern California served as a chilling reminder of the risks his community back home face.

“Although it’s not unprecedented for the Los Angeles area, particularly Malibu, to experience catastrophic wildfires this time of year, it still doesn’t suppress the surprise,” Poganski noted. “It was surreal to witness first-hand the level of destruction and were amazed that more lives were not lost in the blaze. We would pass by dozens upon dozens of homes directly adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, along the Pacific Coast Highway, that were destroyed.

“There was also a realization that the communities affected by the Palisades Fire share many similarities to our own communities at home,” Poganski continued.

“We encountered several areas where dense brush encroached on roads and homes, trees hung over leaf-littered roofs, and where road access was poor. California’s most devastating wildfires have proven that they are opportunistic; fires exploit dry or windy weather conditions and assault available fuels. Hills, canyons, and other terrain can only potentiate the spread of fire. Local homeowners and businesses should look at all possible ways to harden structures against wildfires.”

Ninjutsu and a 4th degree blackbelt in Tae Kwon Do, those are kept in a back room rather than on a wall in the practice space.

“There’s no ego here; ego is a killer,” McKinley said. “I want to approach students as an equal, to make sure that respect is shown because that’s how people best learn, I think. I’m here to bring high-quality martial arts to people who can’t normally afford it, and help them be their better selves, because that’s what martial arts truly is all about. It’s about being better than you were the day before.”

Oni Kai Ninjutsu is located at 2661 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines, near the Knotty

Bowling Alley.

Pines

Dojo

OPINION

California Commentary

Fire victims will still be protected by Prop. 13 when they rebuild

he terrible

Tfires that have ravaged Los Angeles County and other parts of SoCal aren’t even fully contained and our o ces here at the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association are already getting calls from victims who are ready to press on and move forward to start rebuilding. It has been an important reminder that one of the great things about living in California is the people. In many ways, they still have the pioneer spirit that built this great state and country.

But everyone has questions about how the disaster will a ect their property taxes, now and after they rebuild. On this, there’s good news.

First, a property that has been damaged or destroyed by a calamity or disaster (that includes not only fires, but also earthquakes, floods, mudslides and the like) can be reassessed to a lower “taxable value” so you aren’t hit with taxes on a house that no longer exists.

To qualify for a “misfortune or calamity” reassessment, the damage to your property must exceed $10,000 of the current market value. Obviously, if your house was destroyed, you certainly qualify. But even if your house is still standing, the decline in your property values from the neighborhood being destroyed around it likely qualifies you for a “decline in value” reassessment that will provide property tax relief.

It’s also important to note that this tax relief not only includes damage to your house or business property but also business equipment, agricultural property like an orchard, aircraft, boats and some manufactured homes. If you pay property taxes on it, it’s likely eligible. Los Angeles County Assessor Je Prang is proactively reassessing properties in the burn areas, so to get this relief, nothing is required. That said, there is a form, and it’s still good to fill it out to make sure the assessor’s o ce knows where to contact you. The forms to request reassessment after a disaster or decline-in-value are available on the county assessor’s website. Return the form to the assessor’s o ce within 12 months of the date of loss (or sometimes later, if the county allows). Some homeowners may also be eligible for property tax postponement, an income-qualified program operated by the State Controller’s o ce.

Message from EID

Next comes the decision to rebuild or move. The good news: you can do either and keep your Proposition 13 tax base.

Letters to the Editor

Fire insurance trouble

EDITOR:

Watching Joe Biden and Gavin Newsom giving a press conference in the middle of the L.A. fire, promising to take care of everyone who lost their homes and businesses, harkened me back to when the same two individuals stood on the foundation of a burntout house in Grizzly Flat, using the exact words, promising FEMA aid that never came. At least the Grizzly Flat community got its post o ce replaced with a modular unit. But there are still people living in trailers on their burnt-out properties. California’s one-party rule has eliminated most of the state’s insurance companies, leaving us with the socialized California Fair Plan as our only option for fire insurance. Now, selfishly, I worry about how much the L.A. fires will a ect my premium. My premium just three years ago was $4,000 a year; today, I have two policies that cost $22,000.

I was talking to my brother, who moved to Reno, and he said one of the biggest reasons he left California was fire insurance premiums. His old house was $15,000 per year and his Reno house

is $1,200. That’s a massive di erence in choosing where to live.

My neighbor informed me that his provider left the state, and he can’t a ord the California Fair Plan fire insurance. His reasoning for not buying the insurance is that Biden and Newsom have helped other communities during their catastrophes, so hopefully, they’ll do the same for him. I certainly hope so, but I doubt it.

When I pray for those who lost everything, I pray for all Californians because we are all in the same situation of when, not if.

You deserve love

EDITOR:

Self-love cures any issue life can come up with. If you loved yourself enough, you would protect yourself from allowing people to drag you through the mud with them. If you loved yourself like God loves you, you wouldn’t feel the need to cope in damaging ways.

■ See COUPAL, page A7

A century of service honors the past, builds the future

n 2025 El Dorado

IIrrigation District celebrates a major milestone: 100 years of service to our community. Since its founding on Oct. 5, 1925, EID has grown from a small water provider supporting agriculture to a modern utility delivering water, wastewater, recycled water, recreation and hydropower services. Our centennial o ers a moment to honor the past, celebrate those who built EID and highlight the work we’re doing today to secure a strong future.

EID was created to meet the community’s need for reliable water. Before 1925, fragmented water systems, run by small private companies, struggled to meet demand. Local leaders formed a public agency with a clear mission: deliver safe,

reliable water for agriculture, homes and businesses. Early investments in water rights, flumes and canals laid the foundation for the system we depend on today. While we honor the past, EID is equally focused on the work needed to maintain and improve our system for the future. Our capital improvement projects strengthen infrastructure to support growth, replace aging systems and prepare for emergencies. Two key projects illustrate this e ort.

The Sly Park Intertie is a 6-mile pipeline in Pollock Pines that enhances system reliability. Built in 1978 after the 1976-77 drought, the SPI operated until 2013, when extensive corrosion caused it to fail. The new pipeline will restore a critical link between two treatment plants,

EID’s story is one of resilience, growth and service. We wouldn’t be here without the foresight of our founders who established this agency in 1925, nor without the ongoing support of our community.

which together supply two-thirds of EID’s water. It will also provide access to water from Jenkinson Lake and the South Fork of the American River, enhancing system flexibility and reliability. Supported by $10.75 million in grants, the project addresses growing wildfire and drought risks and ensures uninterrupted water delivery during emergencies.

Another major e ort to meet current community needs is upgrading treatment plant infrastructure to ensure consistent water quality and operational e ciency. As customer needs grow, these projects ensure our system is ready to meet future demand and comply with ever growing state and

federal regulations to ensure our water remains safe. Critical e orts are under way now to improve reliability and treatment capacity at key facilities, supporting growth and system resilience.

To limit costs for ratepayers, EID actively pursues grant funding and low-interest loans. Recent e orts have secured millions in outside funding, helping o set project costs.

The next century will bring new challenges, from the e ects of a changing climate to stricter regulations and the need to replace aging infrastructure. But EID is ready. Our strategy focuses on system resilience and emergency

KEN STEERS Cameron Park

JON COUPAL

Continued from A6

Next comes the decision to rebuild or move. The good news: you can do either and keep your Proposition 13 tax base.

Here’s how.

According to the Board of Equalization, if you choose to rebuild on the same site after the property has been “substantially damaged or destroyed,” you can keep your Prop. 13 base-year assessment “if the reconstructed property’s market value is comparable to the damaged property in size, utility, and function.”

Well, what does that mean? The BOE states “substantially damaged or destroyed” means “that the improvement must sustain physical damage amounting to more than 50% of the improvement’s full cash value immediately prior to the disaster as determined by the County Assessor.” Again, if your house was destroyed, you most likely check that box.

If only you knew how priceless and perfect you are, you wouldn’t allow anything to throw dirt on you, whether addiction or person. Each experience and interaction is a test.

The first step to self-love is releasing guilt and shame. You need to realize that you didn’t choose any of this. All of the things that happened to you, were not your fault. You’ve just been reacting to the

“Comparable in size and utility” means that “the reconstructed property may not exceed 120% of the market value of the property prior to its damage or destruction.” So, for example, if your old house was worth $1 million, you can go up to $1.2 million without a tax increase.

If you do go over that 120%, don’t worry, you aren’t getting completely reassessed. The excess market value will just be added to your old value. Yes, your property taxes will go up but will still likely be well under market value.

You must rebuild within five years by law, but that has been extended in other fires to eight years and will likely be done here too, if not longer.

If you just want to move and take your Prop. 13 value with you, you can but it must be done within two to five years depending on whether the move is within your county or to another county. It also must be to a property of equal or lesser value to

devastations of your life. You need to love yourself enough to not let the guilt of your life decide all your actions. You need to release those emotions. Those negative feelings cause every single one of your actions and bring negativity to your life. If you feel bad about yourself, you act accordingly. You need to love yourself like God loves you.

God not only shows us how much he loves us, but

by Joel Fagliano

keep the same tax bill. You can buy a property of any value, but anything extra will be added on, just as if you were exceeding that 120% when you rebuild.

I know this is a lot to take in, but the good news is that you have time. There are also a lot of helpful resources that will provide greater detail as you navigate through this process.

The Board of Equalization also has general information for property owners affected by the fires and other disasters that may be eligible for property tax relief at boe.ca.gov/proptaxes/disasterrelief.htm.

State Treasurer Fiona Ma has also put together a list of helpful links for victims of wildfires and other natural disasters at treasurer.ca.gov/STO-WildfireRecovery-Resources-Guide.pdf.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

he shows us exactly how we should love ourselves. You must truly love yourself regardless of your mistakes or mishaps because it wasn’t your fault to begin with. The devil is weak. His only weapon is making you feel bad enough about yourself to feel unworthy of God. Do not let the devil make you feel guilty or ashamed of the horrible things he has forced on you.

You are made in God’s image, you are perfect. You deserve to love yourself unconditionally. Too many souls let hurt people bully them into hating themselves and their quirks. The truth is, the people who truly love you, love every single thing that makes you who you are — whether that be height, weight or the quirks in your personality — they love all of it because it’s who you are. Don’t let the people who dislike you, make you feel ashamed about the things that make people love you.

Whether someone hurts you or not, you have the opportunity to not let those bad experiences take away from your soul. The greatest tragedy in life is when a person shells up. They shell up due to bad experiences, which in turn deprives them from all of the good experiences life has to offer.

The best example I can give is two hearts, one has pieces missing but is unprotected, while the other has pieces missing but a steel cage protecting it. While the open heart may be picked apart, there is the opportunity for someone to come along and make them whole. Unlike the open heart, the protected heart, while keeping its last few pieces safe, takes away the chance of ever becoming whole. Life isn’t about surviving, it’s about never letting the bad experiences of life make you miss out on all the good ones.

RILEY SMITH El Dorado Hills

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 or Kent (530) 651-3575

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S

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 and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.

SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started.

TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.

Alpine racers hit the slopes for season’s first contest

The South 1 Division of the CNISSF had more than 200 racers from Amador, Argonaut, El Dorado, Oak Ridge, Ponderosa and Union Mine high schools competing in their first ski and snowboard races of the year on Jan. 13 at Sierra-at-Tahoe.

El Dorado County’s four schools took the top four spots in the women’s varsity ski race:

1. EDHS with 385 points

2. ORHS with 379 points

3. PHS with 317 points

4. UMHS with 312 points

Top finisher was Trojan Greta Aronowitz followed by Cougar Andie Chandler and Amador/Argonaut’s Marley Garner.

In the men’s varsity ski race El Dorado once again proved dominant with the top team score:

1. EDHS with 382 points

2. ORHS with 375 points

3. PHS with 358

4. UMHS with 320

Top finisher was Cougar Dylan McLeod, followed by Trojan AJ Stonebarger and Bruin Caden Scroggins.

In the women’s varsity snowboard race, Pondo came out on top:

1. PHS with 389 points

2. ED with 373 points

3. ORHS with 366 points

4. UM with 234 points

Oak Ridge’s Molly Railey was fastest on the course, followed by two Bruins — Shayla Dalton and Audrey Kersey.

El Dorado took first in the men’s varsity snowboard race:

1. PHS with 389 points

2. ED with 373 points

3. ORHS with 366 points

4. UM with 234 points

Cougar Matix Spitzer outraced opponents for first place, followed by classmates Blake Stowe and Eli Boatman.

Lange among those honored for their love of the outdoors

John Poimiroo California Outdoors Hall of Fame executive director

Five legendary outdoorsmen, including former Mountain Democrat columnist Bel Lange, were inducted into the California Outdoors Hall of Fame at the International Sportsmen’s Exposition at Cal Expo in Sacramento on Jan. 18. Every fisherman and hunter raised in the Sacramento/Stockton region from the mid’50s through mid-’80s grew up to the voice and image of Bel Lange and his “The Outdoorsman”

TV show.

Upon his passing a decade ago, the Mountain Democrat (home to Lange’s tales of the outdoors) reported, “His written

words put us in the boat, at the shoreline or in the water to reel in that prized catch while his descriptive hunting excursions put us behind the sight and pulling the trigger from deep in the brush.

“We traveled far and near with Bel Lange — to Alaska to seek salmon and halibut; to right here in our backyard in search of trout, mackinaw and bass.

“Lange … delivered keen insight to his readers on how to fish, hunt and enjoy the outdoors. … Lange is probably best known for his weekly TV show,

‘The Outdoorsman’ that won an Emmy in 1955 for best sports show in Northern California.”

Lange started the television program on Stockton’s ABC affiliate in 1954, eventually moving it to CBS’s KOVR, Channel 13 in Sacramento, where he served as executive producer, production manager and general manager.

“The Outdoorsman” lasted 28 years on TV. Thereafter, Lange hosted the hour-long call-in radio show, “The Outdoorsman with Bel Lange” on Sacramento’s KMJI station. Through

it all, each show ended with Bel’s memorable closing line, “Take time to enjoy the great outdoors.” Those oft-repeated words encouraged many to do just that.

A beloved feature of his show was Bel’s Bafflers, trivia about the great outdoors that entranced people who’d never cast a line, bagged a pheasant or hiked a mile along a forest trail. He compiled them into the book (still being sold on Amazon), “Bel’s Bafflers, Outdoors trivia, recipes and cartoons” that featured on its cover, the baffler, “Can

you name the bear that is pigeon toed?” If you named any bear, you were probably right, as most bears are pigeon toed. Lange had a knack for engaging people in becoming interested in outdoor topics through the use of minutiae, humor, oddities, curiosity and littleknown facts. He backed up his entertaining delivery with solid information about camping, hunting and fishing.

Lange died on April 1, 2013, at 88. He is remembered as “an

n See LANGE, page A9

Savory Spice to Game Day Celebrations

Photo by Bill Weaver

ORHS snowboarder Molly Railey was fastest on the course during the first South 1 Division alpine race of the year.

Mountain Democrat staff

BEL LANGE

Ski California Safety Day to focus on chairlift safety

Jessica Weaver News release

SOUTH LAKE

TAHOE — On Saturday, Jan. 25, resorts in California and Nevada will recognize the seventh annual Ski California Safety Day with engaging activities and content focused on skier and snowboarder safety tips that align with the NSAA’s Your Responsibility Code. With this year’s theme focused on chairlift safety, Ski California will also release a new video on Safety Day focused on what to do if a skier or snowboarder isn’t seated properly when loading a lift. It will be available in the awardwinning Ski California Mountain Safety Guide and on Ski California’s YouTube Channel.

“Our member resorts are focused on safety every day of the season and in every facet of their operations,” said John Rice, Ski California president. “Ski California Safety Day gives us an opportunity to amplify industrywide and member resort safety related efforts and initiatives by hosting activities and experiences that help educate our guests about the shared responsibilities of skiing and riding safely.”

In addition to hosting on-site activations on Ski California Safety Day, resorts will continue to leverage the Mountain Safety Guide throughout the season. Created as a tool to educate skiers and riders about staying safe and making good decisions on the slopes, the Mountain Safety Guide offers information relevant to winter sports enthusiasts of all experience and ability levels. Skiers and riders are encouraged to review the guide and take the quiz at the end for a chance to win a 202526 Ski California Gold Pass (value $4,000), plus prize packages that

Local ski resorts are emphasizing chairlift safety and hosting special programs in celebration of Saturday’s Ski California Safety Day.

include Glade helmets, goggles and other accessories.

Ski California will also make a new video produced by the nonprofit High Fives Foundation as part of the BASICS series focused on Deep Snow Safety part of its safety education efforts. The video, sponsored by Ski California and the National Ski Areas Association expands on the concept of Deep Snow Safety featured in Ski California’s own award-winning video on the topic released last season.

Here’s what local Ski California member resorts are doing to support Safety Day this year:

Heavenly Mountain Resort: The resort’s Lift Experience team will reward safe practices with candy bars for correctly using the safety bar in the Bars for Bars Down program.

Kirkwood: Safety Day celebrations will include interactive activities and opportunities to learn about mountain safety. Guests can visit the Kirkwood Rescue Avalanche Dog tent in the village to support the KRAD program, take photos with the dogs at the Chairlift Photo Booth, and participate in a scavenger hunt with the Ski Teams. The Tune Shop will offer free and

Lange Continued from A8

avid fisherman, hunter, camper and guide to many.” Lange’s paramount scope of outdoor adventures retold colorfully on air and in print were an introduction to outdoor sports for generations of Californians. He provided motivating memories, entertainingly described, for nearly six decades. During that long tenure, he was credited with inspiring tens of thousands to mimic his adventures and “Take time to enjoy the great outdoors.”

Joining Lange on this year’s list of inductees are:

• Mike Aughney, a lifelong advocate for the survival of California’s fish

Abercrombie

discounted tune-up tickets for those who complete a short safety quiz, while the Lift Experience team will reward safe practices with candy bars for correctly using the safety bar in the Bars for Bars Down program.

Palisades Tahoe: Fun, educational opportunities for guests to participate in and sharpen up their safety skills at both mountains include Ski Patrol live demonstrations with their avalanche dogs, mini-avalanche awareness clinics with Alpenglow Expeditions and free educational deep snow immersion clinics. On Sunday, Jan. 26, 1-3:30 p.m. at both mountains, get insider tips on how to be safe on the hill and improve your turns when you take a complimentary run with a professional instructor.

Sierra-at-Tahoe: Resort guests are invited to participate in a meet and greet with Sierra’s Avy Dogs at the top of Grandview, 10-11 a.m., that will include a snow safety talk with Ski Patrol while patrollers demonstrate the Avy dogs’ skills. In addition, throughout the day the U.S. Forest Service and El Dorado Search and Rescue will be in the plaza and discounts will be offered on helmets in the resort’s retail store.

and wildlife who spent most of his 63 years as recreational and commercial angler and environmental advocate.

• Brian Riley, the California originator of what has become a national trend in outdoor youth education.

• Yancey Forest-Knowles, an avid hunter, fisherman and conservationist with 70 years of experience who is also a staunch supporter and advocate for the state’s hunting and angling heritage.

• Major League Baseball legend Dusty Baker, who is also known to California outdoorsmen and women as an angler and duck hunter of renown.

Continued from A6 preparedness.

Flume replacements are a key part of this strategy. EID is replacing vulnerable wooden flumes with modern, long-lasting alternatives that can withstand fires, floods and falling trees. Backup generators are being installed to keep water flowing during power outages, while system interties create alternative routes for water delivery during emergencies. These investments ensure that water service continues uninterrupted — even during wildfires, droughts and power outages.

Our focus on system resilience isn’t just about emergencies. Our changing climate is altering water availability and extreme weather events are more frequent. EID is taking action now to ensure our system is prepared for these conditions, protecting reliable water delivery for future generations. As we celebrate our centennial, we’re not just looking back; we’re looking

COMICS

forward. Every investment we make today — from pipeline replacements to treatment plant upgrades — ensures that our system is ready for the next 100 years.

EID’s story is one of resilience, growth and service. We wouldn’t be here without the foresight of our founders who established this agency in 1925, nor without the ongoing support of our community. As we embark on the next century, we remain committed to our core mission: delivering safe, reliable water and protecting the natural resources that sustain us all.

Throughout 2025, EID will highlight its history and future vision with monthly themes shared online at eid.org/100, in The Waterfront and on social media.

Here’s to 100 years of service — and to the next 100. Jim Abercrombie is general manager of EID.

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ll take a moment to prioritize. Careful choices now will make life easier and more enjoyable. Some problems unlock solutions to many others. When you focus on the right task, everything flows smoothly.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). People turn to you for wisdom without expecting you to have all the answers. What they value most is your belief in them and the way you inspire their confidence. Remember, the support you give is just as vital to offer yourself.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Everything unfolds in its time. Even when progress isn’t visible, it’s happening. Trust that what you long for is taking shape, as naturally and inevitably as the changing seasons.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Your resilience shines. You bounce back so beautifully. Even after challenging moments, you pivot toward hope, health and creativity. That’s a testament to your inner strength and resourcefulness.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Creative momentum is on your side. Your vision is incredibly vibrant. You’re not just dreaming; you’re taking steps, even amid life’s complications. The weekend will offer fresh opportunities. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). However you feel, it’s OK. You’ll be true to yourself, own your decisions and fight for what you want, not through entitlement but through sincerity. When you get tired, one small action will be all it takes to reclaim your energy.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). The obstacles are the path. There’s nothing to avoid here, only new surfaces to navigate. If there wasn’t something glorious about the climb, mountain climbers wouldn’t exist. Your refusal to attach to negativity keeps you buoyant and effective. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You know your own shadow very well, though sometimes its various distortions still surprise you. There’s a gem of knowledge to be learned in the spirit of radical self-acceptance. Honest curiosity will give you the world.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Today celebrates individuality and unconventional approaches. Someone’s over-the-top style will be inspiration for creativity, selfexpression and being unapologetically yourself. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). It’s time to let go of a strong attachment, or at least let it change into something that fits your life better, resonating with where you want to be emotionally these days.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Your network has values you will utilize in the weeks to come. Names can be a kind of magic key. They’ll use yours, you’ll use theirs...

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

SUDOKU

Courtesy photo

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

Lebeck Engineering, Inc.

Proudly celebrates 20 years of full-service civil engineering and consulting services to clients all over the greater El Dorado, Sacramento and Placer County areas. Lebeck Engineering’s extensive professional engineering experience, combined with cutting-edge technologies, assist each client in achieving a successful project.

Providing Quality Civil Engineering, Surveying & Planning Services for Residential & Commercial Land Development Projects

■ Custom Home Grading Plans

■ Parcel Splits / Subdivisions

■ Improvement Plans

■ Commercial Projects

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PROSPECTING

Something for everyone at the Switchboard Gallery

Andrew Vonderschmitt

Sta writer

The Placerville Arts Association teamed up with Arts and Culture El Dorado to present its first member show of the year, Atelier on Main in the Switchboard Gallery.

The show has works of myriad of mediums from over 40 association members.

Featuring oil painting, photography, bronze sculpture, mixed media, fiber art, porcelain and more, the exhibition o ers something to appeal to a wide range of Switchboard Gallery visitors.

The show is juried by Polly LaPorte, a California fine art painter who grew up in Placerville where she attended Sugarloaf art camp. Currently residing in Sacramento, LaPorte said that growing up in the region shaped her artistic life starting with a blue ribbon in art from the El Dorado County Fair.

Arts and Culture El Dorado made room in its schedule to feature some of the region’s more prolific fine artists. Terry LeMoncheck, executive director, has enjoyed

■ See KNOW, page B5

■ See SWITCHBOARD, page B6

It has been a pleasure to serve this wonderful community. We have truly had the best customers and sta ! We will sincerely miss all of you and could not have done it without each and every person we have had the pleasure to come in contact with over the years, whether it be as coworkers, customers or friends. Many of you have become a combination of all three!

It’s been a pleasure serving and supporting our community, but we are happy to begin this new chapter in our lives: RETIREMENT! We will continue to support and serve the community in any way we can as the Bodle Family. Thanks again to everyone!

Mountain Democtrat photos by Andrew Vonderschmitt A wide array of artistic disciplines will be on display at the Switchboard Gallery.

News release

Singer/songwriter

Katie Knipp and her band play the blues at the historical Nevada Theatre in Nevada City on Friday, Jan. 31. Knipp has four Top 10 Billboard Blues Albums featuring power-house vocals, boogie-woogie piano and slide guitars.

Overflowing with the kind of painful self-examination that growth requires, Katie Knipp’s latest release, “Me,” finds her exposed at the seams and sewing herself back together in front of her audience. Her fourth top 10 Billboard charting album brings Knipp’s hard-fought personal and musical self-awareness to the forefront of the contemporary blues landscape. From sultry to social justice, Knipp dives all the way in teaming her refreshing vulnerability with expert level musicality and composition.

Knipp’s unique euphony and passionate storytelling has propelled her to stages alongside the who’s who of the blues including Buddy Guy and Robert Cray as well contemporary favorites like Trombone Shorty and Fantastic Negrito. For tickets and more information visit paulemerymusic.com.

Songwriter Rita Hosking brings her quartet to the historic Nevada Theatre in Nevada City on Saturday, Feb. 1.

Rita Hosking’s got the spirit, and she knows how to reach ours through her grace, heart, chops and spunk. With award-winning, original music spanning nine albums and 20 years of touring, this country-folk troubadour is a heavy hitter in the northern California songwriting scene. While working to support herself, Hosking earned a BA in Religious Studies with a minor in Cultural Anthropology from the University of California, Davis. Coursework focussed on world religions, culture, psychology, and creative writing. She then earned a California Teaching Credential in Social Studies from Califonia State University, Sacramento, and honed her storytelling and organizational skills with over 10 years of eighth grade U.S. History students. While music always remained an interest, Rita gained perspective into the universal human psyche from an intellectual standpoint that would later be integrated with her own story. The music she produces today is an amalgamation of her university studies, teaching experience, motherhood and the humanity that has moved her since her childhood in the hard-hitting mountains of northeastern California. In returning to her early love of singing and

songwriting, Rita found a natural and accessible way to share this embracing of spirit.

Her homespun style of countryfolk has been lauded for story and sense of place, and her performances praised for capturing the audience. She hails from Hatchet Mountain — a summit between Montgomery Creek and Burney, and her voice is characterized as “a soulful howl from the mountains” by the California

Tahoe Daily Tribune

J Grey & Mofro are hitting the Harrah’s Lake Tahoe South Shore Room stage.” said Harrah’s organizers, “Since his first album, ‘Blackwater,’ back in 2001, Grey has been releasing deeply moving, masterfully written, funkified rock and front porch Southern soul music. Now, with his new album, “Olustee” his 10th and first in nine years, and the first he has self-produced Grey is back, singing his personal stories with universal themes of redemption, rebirth, hard luck and inner peace.”

Bluegrass Association. A descendant of miners who sang in the mines of Cornwall and Grass Valley, she grew up with a deep regard for folk music and the power of the voice.

On special occasions, her whole quartet reconvenes as it has done vibrantly for nearly two decades. Hosking’s seasoned, longtime partner in song and versatile multiinstrumentalist is Sean Feder on

dobro, banjo, guitar and voice. Bill Dakin adds heartfelt upright bass and voice, and Andy Lentz contributes outstanding fiddle playing. Together, The Rita Hosking Band delivers what Acoustic Magazine calls “timeless, unhurried elegance.”

The show at the Nevada Theatre starts at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1. For more information visit paulemerymusic.com.

“The best songs I’ve ever written, I never wrote, they wrote themselves,” said Grey. “To me, those things come from the power of an honest moment, and I guess I’m trying to live in that power and not force life to cough up what I want.” For more information visit visitlaketahoe.com/ event/jj-grey-mofro-atharrahs-lake-tahoe.

Courtesy photos

Courtesy photos

Country-folk troubador, Rita Hosking and her quartet will bring her homespun style to audiences in Nevada City.

What’s in a name?

Allen Schmeltz Sutter Creek Theatre

Enjoy the magical tale of “Rumpelstiltskin” from the Grimm Brothers German fairy tale. The kingdom is almost out of gold after the reckless King and Queen spend the kingdom’s money on frivolous things. The prince is trying to be the voice of reason, hoping to get their spending under control.

Rumpelstiltskin has been banished from the castle for years, after he tried to become more powerful than the royal family. He begs his mother Circe, a witch, to give him magic. He sees a way to become more powerful by taking advantage of the situation. After Malcolm the Miller brags to his friend that his daughter Sabrina can spin straw into gold the King and Queen hear about it and think this will save the kingdom. Soon everyone learns the importance of a name.

This production, rated G, is adapted by Laura Luke and directed by Christine Lovette.

Showtimes for “Rumpelstiltskin” are 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Feb. 23 at Sutter Street Theatre, 717 Sutter St. in Folsom. Make reservations at SutterStreetTheatre.com or call (916) 353-1001.

Keith Greeninger & Nina Gerber to perform live

Award-winning singer/ songwriter Keith Greeninger and legendary guitarist Nina Gerber join forces for a powerful night of music, song and community celebration at the historical Nevada Theatre on Saturday, Jan. 25. The concert celebrates the life and spirit of KVMR broadcaster Brian Terhorst. Both artists share deep roots in the rich California music scene and are well known for their dynamic, improvisational performances and collaborations.

Guitarist Nina Gerber started her music career playing alongside the iconic singer/songwriter, Kate Wolf. She has since gone on to establish herself as one of the finest guitarists on the planet performing and recording with some of the genre’s finest songwriters including Nanci Gri th, Karla Bono , Greg Brown,

Eliza Gilkyson, Laurie Lewis and Chris Webster, just to name a few.

Keith Greeninger is a compelling singer/songwriter and performer whose songs have won top honors at such prestigious music festivals as the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and the Kerrville Folk Festival. A seasoned troubadour who paints intricate portraits of the human condition with powerful melodic images, deep engaging guitar rhythms and compelling, heartwrenching vocals, his songs cut an honest, hard worn path to places of simple truth about good people holding on to hope and instinct in a world that often tries to strip these things away.

The show starts at 7 p.m. at the Nevada Theatre in Nevada City. Tickets are $35 premium reserved seating, $25 general admission. For tickets and more information visit paulemerymusic.com.

Courtesy photos

Keith Greeninger and Nina Gerger will treat an audience to a dynamic blend of improvisation and collaboration at the Nevada Theatre in Nevada City.

Photo by Allen Schmeltz

Belle Ignacio and Scott Devine help spin the exciting tale of “Rumpelstiltskin,” opening Jan. 25.

Stephen Inglis @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Pete Sears @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Phil Grif�ths: Cheaper Than Therapy at the Shelton Theater @ 8pm Cheaper Than Therapy, 533 Sutter St, San Francisco

Beginner Tai Chi @ 8:45am Beginning tai chi classes offered at the Woodland Community & Senior Center. Woodland Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�tness68@ gmail.com

Dr Gino Sitson: Artist/Scholar in Residence @ 9am Sacramento City College, 3835 Freeport Blvd, Sacramento

Dance Fitness Classes for Adults! @ 10:15am

Low-impact dance �tness classes. All dance styles! Woodland Com‐munity & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�tness68@ gmail.com

Winter Elementary Drawing @ 2:55pm / $105 Jan 27th - Mar 10th Russell Ranch Elementary, 375 Dry Creek Rd, Folsom. 916-330-4577

7pm. $10 adv./$15 door. All ages. The Green Room Social Club, 251 Main Street, Placerville Tribute Saturdays Live @ Music City San Francisco @ 7pm / $29 Discover new bands and unforget‐table experiences at The Music City Underground! 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Francisco. aprill@ musiccitysf.org

An Evening With Fleetwood Mask & Special Guest Drew Harrison @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco Crosstown 5 back at CJ's! @ 8pm CJ's Saloon, 548 Contra Costa Blvd G, Pleasant Hill

Toxsin @ 8pm Old Ironsides, 1901 10th St, Sacra‐mento

LOSTBOYJAYSacramento, CA @ 9pm LowBrau, 1050 20th St, Sacra‐mento

San Francisco @ 9pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell St, San Francisco

Brenda Mallory: In the Absence of Instruction @ 12pm 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

Matt Jaffe @ 1pm Mare Island Brewing Company, First Street, Benicia Silverset @ 6pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission St, San Francisco

Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums featuring Miss Car‐men Getit: Steve Lucky's Hammond Cheese Combo DEBUT @ Mr. Tipple's Jazz Club in San Francisco @ 6pm Mr. Tipple’s Jazz Club, 39 Fell St, San Francisco

Latin Sundays @ The Music City Live Bands & DJ Sets @ 7pm / $29 Brazilian Rhythms/Salsa/Cumbia/ Latin Jazz/Spanish Rumba/Latin Rock/ Forró/Global Beats & More 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Francisco. aprill@musicci tysf.org

Texture In Art (2nd and up)

@ 3:30pm / $220 Jan 27th - Mar 17th

Peregrine Elementary School, 2650 Lillard Dr, Davis. 530-753-5500

Path�nder -Tabletop Role Playing Game*

@ 3:30pm / $220 Jan 27th - Mar 17th Peregrine Elementary School, 2650 Lillard Dr, Davis. 530-753-5500

MADKID LIVE TOUR 2025RISING in NORTH AMERICA with NANO

@ 7pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco

Nano ナノ @ 7pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco

Nano @ 8pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco

Beginning + Intermediate

Tai Chi @ 10am Tai chi classes for beginners and intermediates at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�tness68@ gmail.com

Jeffrey James @ 6pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco

The Nth Power @ 7pm Torch Club, 904 15th St, Sacra‐mento

Ralph Barbosa @ 7pm Cobb's Comedy Club, 915 Colum‐bus Ave, San Francisco

Dave Ricketts Music: Dave Ricketts & Friends at The Sea Star @ 7:30pm The Sea Star, 2289 3rd St, San Francisco

Annika Wells @ 8pm Cafe Du Nord, 2174 Market St,

That?

@ 7pm / $20.25-$30.25 Punch Line Comedy Club - Sacra‐mento, Sacramento Locals Night Feat: Rodriguez Jazz Combo @ 7pm / $6.67-$11.82 Blue Note Napa, Napa

Carla Kihlstedt: 26 Little

Deaths - Gabriel Kahane, conductor @ 7:30pm Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco

Tony Saunders Bassist & Producer: Flat 3 with Paul Scott Van Wagner Tony Saunders and John Wheeler @ 7:30pm The Fink, 530 Main St, Napa

Dave Hill

@ 8pm

Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco

Aceyalone @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

White Mic(Bored Stiff) 50th Birthday Party @ 8pm / $14.60 Neck of the Woods, San Francisco

Dance Fitness Classes for Adults!

@ 11am Low-impact dance �tness classes. All dance styles! Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�tness68 @gmail.com

Neeto: BB Studio 6

Sessions - January

@ 7pm Music City SF Lounge, 1355 Bush St, San Francisco

Hip Hop, Soul, R & B Thursdays @ The Music City San Francisco Live Music @ 7pm / $29

Weekly rotating performances: Musicians, Cyphers, DJs 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Francisco

I C Ur Funny with Marcus Mangham @ 7pm / $13

Laughs Unlimited has a LONG his‐tory (almost 45 years) of cultivat‐ing, recognizing and promoting talent throughout the Northern California area. Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsun limited@gmail.com, 916-446-8128

Zane Carney Solo Show (Feinstein's at The Nikko)

@ 8pm Feinstein's at The Nikko, 222 Ma‐son St, San Francisco

Zane Carney In Concert @ 8pm / $55.85 Feinstein's at The Nikko, San Fran‐cisco

The

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.

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 and to register early visit shatterproofcyof.donordrive.com.

Marshall Hospital Auxiliary is looking for volunteers. Help people and make new friends. Interviews are held monthly. For more information call Norma at (530) 676-1844 or email grizzyq98@gmail.com.

Gold Bug Park & Mine in Placerville is open Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit goldbugpark.org.

Jan. 24

The Sofia in Sacramento presents prolific and passionate songwriter May Erlewine. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. show starts at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents John Adams Academy’s presentation of A Celebration of the Classics. All of the John Adams Academy campuses come together for the first time with one spectacular night of classic entertainment. Show starts at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 6086888.

Jan. 25

Check out Placerville Cars and Coffee every Saturday, 7-9 a.m. at Lions Park. Hang out with other car enthusiasts.

Gold Discovery Day will commemorate the discovery of gold by James Marshall on Jan. 24, 1848, with living history demonstrations, speakers and more at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma. For more information visit parks.ca.gov/?page_id=484.

Vitalant will hold a Cameron Park community blood drive 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3431 Hacienda Road. The blood drive is sponsored by Just Serve organization. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFT172.or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code.

A free Keep Families Safe From Trafficking symposium with law enforcement and lawmakers takes place at 10 a.m. at Bayside Church, 890 Glenn Drive in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit drive4impact.org.

The Coloma Community Market takes place 1-4 p.m., drizzle or shine, the second and fourth Saturdays at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. Parking is free during the market hours.

El Dorado County Search & Rescue’s 39th annual crab feed takes place at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Forni Building. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy. No-host bar, dinner, dancing, raffle, auction and more. For tickets call Christi Dean at (530) 626-7111.

Knight Foundry will hold its monthly fourth Saturday selfguided walking tour day where visitors will discover an innovative, interactive video, text, and in-person experience as they explore the foundry complex. Expert docents are on hand to run the magnificent antique machinery and talk with visitors 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit knightfoundry.com or call (209) 560-6160.

Blu Egyptian and Band of Coyotes will perform 1-3 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Save the Graves will host a cemetery tour of lesser known cemeteries. The tour will visit six cemeteries: Methodist Episcopal Federated Church, Placerville Old City, Saint Patrick’s, Uppertown, Pioneer Jewish Cemetery and the Pest House. There is no cost to attend and the tour is suitable for all ages. Meet at Federated Church Parking Lot, 1031 Thompson Way, at 10 a.m. Registration is required. Visit savethegraveseldorado.org.

The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera presents Beethoven, Brahms, and Hadelich. Principal Conductor Ari Pelto leads the SP&O in Beethoven’s boisterous and tuneful Symphony No. 7. Grammy Award-winning violinist Augustin Hadelich also joins the orchestra for Brahms’s Violin Concerto. Programs scehduled Jan. 25 & 26. For tickets and more information call (916) 476-5975 or visit sacphilopera.org.

Shadow Ranch Vineyards in the Fair Play area will host Wine Tasting: Aromas at noon and 2:30 p.m. Reservations are required. $45/ person or $30/person for club members. For more information visit shadowranch.com

The Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents Folsom Lake Symphony’s presentation of Connections @ The Symphony, a family concert with an instrument petting zoo for kids after the performance. Show starts at 11 a.m. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Jan. 26

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a guided nature walk, 10-11 a.m. Explore the wild world of winter along New York Creek Nature Trail during a walk with a naturalist. This one-way guided walk begins at the St. Andrews trail entrance and concludes after one hour. Participants may choose to explore further down the trail or head back to Community Park on their own time. To register visit eldoradohillscsd.org.

The 10th annual Sacramento Chocolate Salon is taking place for just the third time since January 2020. TasteTV and the International Chocolate Salon are pleased to announce that the premier artisan chocolate event of the Capital Corridor is Sunday. Great presentations, chocolate tasting and more are taking place at the Citizen Hotel in downtown Sacramento. 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For tickets go to SacChocolateSalon.com.

A Sip N Paint event with Colleen Ellis takes place 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

The Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents EMG Entertainments presentation of A Tribute To Linda Ronstadt with Ronstadt Revival featuring Shannon Rae. Show starts at 3 p.m. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Jan. 27

Music in the Mountains will hold auditions from 5-7 p.m. The Music in the Mountains chorus is an auditioned community chorus. To learn more or to schedule an audition email info@musicinthemountains.org.

Jan. 28

The El Dorado Hills Genealogical Society hosts a presentation by Cindy Brennan titled “Should I Stay, or Should I Go” showing how to use Emigrant Guides in Research at 6 p.m. at the El Dorado Hills

Library on Silva Valley Parkway. Interested genealogists are welcome to join the EDHGS. All are welcome. The group seeks to promote access to helpful and friendly resources for research, problem solving and discussion.

Main Street Menagerie (DJ & Drag Show) will take place 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts its annual Summer

Job Fair at the Pavilion, located at 1021 Harvard Way in El Dorado Hills, 6-8 p.m. The event is open to individuals 15 and older who are interested in working for the district. For more information visit edhcsd.org/jobs.

Tony & Grammy-winning “Dear Evan Hansen” — the sensation and first contemporary musical about connection in the digital age — runs Jan. 28 through Feb. 2 at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Switchboard Continued from B1 collaborating with the Placerville Arts Association on the show.

“It has been a real pleasure working with the artists of the Placerville Arts Association on this member exhibition, especially since this show will open Switchboard Gallery up to a wider audience,” she said, adding that she is sure that the variety will please art patrons with differing tastes.

“The range of artistry is amazing in terms of different mediums, size, use of color, and subject matter – there truly will be something for everyone on the walls and pedestals of our gallery,” said LeMoncheck.

The exhibition, “Atelier on Main” will run through Feb. 23. The Switchboard Gallery at 525 Main Street, Placerville is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org

2/12/25. Call 530-306-4101 X6 info@namieldoradocounty.org

‘Dear Evan Hansen’ shares powerful message on stage

Ed Sengstack Harris Center for the Arts

FOLSOM — Harris Center for The Arts presents the Tony and Grammy-winning Best Musical “Dear Evan Hansen,” opening Jan. 28. Declared “one of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history” by The Washington Post, “Dear Evan Hansen” is the first musical to take a groundbreaking look — from the point of view of both the parents and young people — at complex, interconnected and social media-filled lives. Evan Hansen is a high school student who always feels like he’s on the outside looking in. Evan finally gets what so many of us are searching for — the chance to finally fit in. What follows is a poignant, funny and powerful musical about how even though it can be hard, we can find each other — and ourselves — along the way.

Including some of the most iconic musical theatre songs from the last decade, including “You Will Be Found,” “Waving Through A Window” and “For Forever,” “Dear Evan Hansen” features an uplifting score by the Emmy, Tony, Grammy, and Oscar-winning team behind “The Greatest Showman,” “La La Land” and “Only Murders in the Building,” Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and a book by Tony Award-winner Steven Levenson.

“Dear Evan Hansen” is recommended for ages 12 and older and contains adult themes, including discussions of suicide.

The musical is performing eight times Jan. 28 through Feb. 2 with Tuesday through Saturday evening performances at 7:30 p.m. and Friday through Sunday matinées at 2 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts, 10 College Parkway in Folsom. Tickets for “Dear Evan Hansen” are on sale now at the Harris Center box office at (916) 608-6888 or online at HarrisCenter.net. showtime.

Courtesy photo

Evan Hansen, a high school student who has always felt isolated and alone, finally gets the chance to fit in. This poignant, funny, and powerful musical explores the challenges and rewards of finding oneself and connecting with others.

Sacramento premieres ‘English’

Capital Stage continues its 20th anniversary season with the Sacramento premiere of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize winning play “English” by Sanaz Toossi. Torange Yeghiazarian, founder of Golden Thread Productions in the Bay Area, will direct making her Capital Stage directing debut.

It’s 2008 and four Iranians assemble tri-weekly in a Test of English as a Foreign Language class in Karaj, Iran. The students are led by Marjan, an

anglophile who abolishes Farsi from her classroom. They translate Ricky Martin and endure major preposition confusion; discover how to be funny in English and ponder what they will lose in the process. As the class slowly devolves into a linguistic mess, some students cling tighter to their mother tongue while others embrace the possibilities of a new language. The cast features Sofia Ahmad, Zaya Kolia, Leda Rasooli, Fatemeh Mehraban and Dena Martinez. Performances run Jan. 29 through March 2. For tickets and more information visit capstage.org.

Public Notices 

Romeo & Juliet dances into Sac

News release

Sacramento Ballet presents a fresh and groundbreaking interpretation of “Romeo & Juliet,” choreographed by worldrenowned dance artist Young Soon Hue. Running Feb. 14-16, at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center, this production marks a historic moment for American ballet as it becomes the first-ever full-length work by Young Soon Hue performed in the United States. Accompanied by the live orchestration of Prokofiev’s iconic score by the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera, this reimagined classic promises to captivate audiences with its emotional depth, dynamic movement and breathtaking innovation.

Young Soon Hue trained at the Académie de Danse Classique de Princesse Grace in Monte Carlo, Monaco. As a professional dancer, Young Soon Hue performed with prestigious companies such as Frankfurt Ballet, Basel Ballet, Zürich Ballet and Deutsche Oper am Rhein, dancing principal roles in works by iconic choreographers including William Forsythe, George Balanchine and Mats Ek.

As a choreographer, Young Soon Hue has created more than 50 pieces for companies across Europe, Asia and the United States, earning accolades such as Best Choreographer of the Year from Korea’s Dance Magazine. Her innovative works, including adaptations of “Carmen,” “Carmina Burana” and “The Firebird, are

celebrated for their unique ability to blend classical traditions with modern sensibilities. Sacramento audiences will now have the extraordinary opportunity to experience a fresh rework of Shakespeare’s timeless classic firsthand, specifically created for Sacramento Ballet’s unique, worldclass resident company artists.

“Young Soon Hue’s work is unlike anything seen before in American ballet,” said Anthony Krutzkamp, artistic/executive director of Sacramento Ballet.

“Her choreographic style is at once timeless and innovative, and is sure to bring a new dimension to a story we all know and love. We are honored to present this production and to position California’s capital as a leader in the arts.”

Sacramento Ballet is only the third company in America to present Hue’s work — and the first to present a full length — making this production of “Romeo & Juliet” a rare unmissable event. This milestone reflects Sacramento Ballet’s ongoing commitment to presenting cutting-edge productions by some of the world’s most unique and sought-after choreographers. On a larger scale, Sacramento Ballet’s ability to present such productions connects the city to the global dance community, enhancing its cultural vibrancy while contributing to economic growth. By bringing this visionary work to the California Capital, Sacramento Ballet continues to elevate the region’s profile as a hub for artistic excellence. For more information visit sacballet.org.

E-mail your public notice to legals@mtdemocrat.net

SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31 14080 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF THOMAS GORMLY MACCONNELL AKA THOMAS G. MACCONNELL CASE NO. 24PR0338 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of THOMAS GORMLY MACCONNELL, THOMAS G. MACCONNELL, TOM MACCONNELL A PETITION for Probate has been filed by JOHN W. MACCONNELL in the Superior Court of California, County of El Dorado. THE PETITION for probate requests that JOHN W. MACCONNELL be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: March 24, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 9 at 3321 Cameron Park Drive, Cameron Park, CA 95682 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear

A LOT OF FUN ... UNCHAINED

Sierra Vista Vineyards and Winery in the Pleasant Valley area welcomes Bobby Dickson Unchained in the winery’s event room, 4-6:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 25. Freshly made pizzas available for purchase. Reservations for food not required but recommended. As always guests can purchase wine by the glass or bottle. No outside food or alcohol allowed. For more information call (530) 622-7221 or visit sierravistawinery.com.