Mountain Democrat, Monday, February 26, 2024

South Tahoe residents hold vigil in wake of overdoses

Ashleigh Goodwin Tahoe Daily Tribune

Seven overdoses in just as many days, four of which were fatal, have left the community of South Lake Tahoe reeling and four families forever altered.

While some question whether it was an overdose or poisoning, the “bottom line,” according to South Lake Tahoe Mayor Cody Bass is, “There is no safe street drug. If you’re going to do something, choose something that’s not going to end your life. There are so many alternatives that you don’t have to worry about a day being your last.

“I don’t want to support alcohol but the fact is we know that people are going to continue to do drugs, it’s not a new thing despite a multi-trillion-dollar war on drug use (that) has just gone up,” Bass said.

In the long-term, policy changes are needed, Bass added. The short-term solution is having fentanyl test strips available and Narcan but he admitted that’s not even a safe choice. The Centers for Disease

“If you know someone who can’t say no to substances, it’s been di cult — especially how I’m grieving right now.”

— Emanuel Maze, friend of South Lake Tahoe man who died in drug-related incident

Control website states, “No test is 100% accurate and your drugs may still contain fentanyl or fentanyl analogs even if you receive a negative result.”

Toxicology reports and subsequent answers are still pending to give a name to the substance that caused the four friends’ overdoses that followed Superbowl Sunday.

On Friday, Feb. 16, more than 200 people gathered at Lakeview Commons as the sun lowered for a vigil held in honor of Abraham Lemus, Keely Pereira, Adam Joy and Cli ord Joy. All were South Lake Tahoe residents except Joy, who lived in Douglas County, Nev. Emergency responders found the four unresponsive in a Roger Avenue home the morning of Feb. 12.

Some in attendance stepped up to speak on drugs and about their friends.

“If you know someone who can’t say no to substances, it’s been di cult — especially how I’m grieving right now,” said Emanuel Maze.

Maze grew up with Lemus and addressed the grieving group by ending with a call-and-answer chant — “Never again.”

“Back in the ‘80s you were worrying about someone overdosing on coke and now you’re worried about a person overdosing on fentanyl that’s not even supposed to be in cocaine,” Maze told the Tahoe Daily Tribune.

Others said the deaths have led them to choose abstinence, even if they didn’t know one of those who recently passed. “Drugs have impacted all of our lives, somehow,” commented one vigil attendee.

“There’s something in

on a 104-acre plot of land locals have used as an uno cial nature park for decades. When “for sale” signs first popped up in the area in 2021, heralding the possibility of future development, a grassroots opposition group called the Rescue Rasmussen Pond Alliance began to come together. The groups has swiftly grown in the past three years — according to a representative

Workshop brainstorms equitable economy

better than.”

Feb. 14.

Odin Rasco Sta writer

As part of a broader initiative to a lasting and forward-thinking economy that meets the needs of modern Californians, Valley Vision and the Sierra Business Council held an inaugural Ideation Workshop at the Boys & Girls Club — El Dorado County Western Slope

The workshop brought together an assortment of county residents from various fields and walks of life, and presented them with one core question: How might we create an inclusive and sustainable economy where all life prospers?

“We’re here to bring people together to have collaborative conversations about

complex situations,” said Valley Vision Communications Manager Alana Ramsey.

“This is a big region, with a varied range of opportunities. Only 34% of our region’s jobs pay a livable wage and provide benefits; 52% of children are growing up in families that are struggling to make ends meet. That’s the reality we’re trying to design

The discussions are the first part of a process that will eventually see $600 million from the general fund distributed across 13 regions across the state as part of California Jobs First. Projects set to receive funds will be selected that fit the needs and potential opportunities in each region, aligning local strategies with

a consideration for equity, job quality and sustainability. The ideal projects will also have an identifiable avenue toward longterm success; the funds distributed by the state will be a catalyst, but long-term funding structures will have to be planned for, be it federal, philanthropic or

Tahoe Daily Tribune photo by Ashleigh Goodwin

Attendees at a vigil in memory of four people found dead of a suspected overdose in a South Lake Tahoe home hold their candles high as they gather at Lakeview Commons Feb. 16.

Casey Ryan Conlee

Sept. 19, 1979 – Feb. 11, 2024

Casey Ryan Conlee. Born 9-1979 passed away 2-11-24, due to congestive heart failure and blood clots in his lungs. He had a great personality and was a fun loving guy. He had a heart of gold to help people. Even at a young age of 4 he was helping strangers. He is survived by his mother Vicki Conlee of Diamond Springs, Brother Chris Conlee and his wife Julie of Las Vegas, NV; 2 daughters, O’ryann of Placerville and Willow Conlee of Sacramento.

Luanne Marie Vierra

May 8, 1958 – Feb. 11, 2024

Luanne Marie Vierra, 65 of Placerville passed away on Sunday, February 11th at 1:00 am. She was surrounded by her Husband Jeff and daughters Christine and Heather.

Luanne was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She was always there when anyone needed a shoulder to cry on or a good laugh. She could light up a room just by walking in and many would say, “she never knew a stranger”. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone she touched. She was a well-loved member of the community in Placerville, Sacramento and surrounding communities.

She was preceded by her mother Betty Lou Weyeneth and is survived by her husband Jeff Vierra, her daughters Christine St. Lawrence and husband Ken St. Lawrence, Heather Wicks and husband Joseph Wicks and her grandchildren, Kenny, Autumn, Lyla and Violet. She is also survived by her father Robert F Weyeneth Sr., brother Robert Weyeneth Jr., his wife Donise Weyeneth and sister in love Toni Goetz along with all her nieces and nephews. If you knew Luanne you know how deeply she will be missed and how she touched the lives of everyone she encountered.

A celebration of life will be held for Luanne on April 25, at 1:00 pm located at: Green Valley Church

3500 Missouri Flat Rd., Placerville, Ca 95667

The family is asking for an RSVP if you wish to attend and it can be sent to: InLovingMemoryLu@ outlook.com

Kelly Colleen Hodgkins

Aug. 6, 1969 – Jan. 27, 2024

Kelly Colleen Hodgkins, 54, of Placervile passed away suddenly on January 27, 2024.

She was born on August 6, 1969 at the USAF’s Medical Center at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Mississippi to Bill Robinson and Jean Robinson (nee Stilke, now Boesl). She grew up in North Tonawanda, NY, and moved to Placerville, California, in 1986. She graduated from El Dorado High School in Placerville in 1987.

Kelly struggled with mental illness for many years and is now finally at peace. She only wanted to see the good in people and was a gentle soul.

She is survived by her dad and step-mother, Bill and Debbie Robinson of Placerville, her mom and stepfather Jean and Ron Boesl of Portland, OR, along with her Uncle Ski of Placerville and Aunt Janet of Buffalo, NY, along with several cousins.

There may be a celebration of life for friends and family during this coming summer. In lieu of flowers, the family would rather have donations in Kelly’s name to the local El Dorado County NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) chapter (https:// namieldoradocounty.org) or a NAMI chapter near you.

Kathi Petersen

Aug. 31,1948 – Feb. 14, 2024

Kathi Petersen, aged 75, of Placerville California, passed away on February 14, 2024. She was born on August 31, 1948 in Salinas, California. Kathi is survived by her husband, Ray Petersen, her sons Morgan and Jacob Petersen, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Kathi was known for her love of crafts, particularly creating scarecrows which she enjoyed selling in Apple Hill. Her creativity and passion for crafting brought joy to many. In addition to her crafting talents, Kathi found solace in swimming in rivers, caring for animals, tending to her garden, and indulging in a good book. She cherished spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, finding immense happiness in their presence.

Kathi Petersen’s warm spirit, dedication to her family, and artistic flair will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Georgetown man suspected of attacking father with knife

Eric Jaramishian

Staff writer

A Georgetown man found himself behind El Dorado County Jail bars again after he reportedly stabbed his father.

El Dorado County sheriff’s deputies arrested 22-year-old suspect Jairsen Aitkens Feb. 18 following an investigation

The following information was taken from El Dorado County sheriff’s reports:

Feb. 8

12:38 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 28-year-old man suspected of DUI and carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle on Oak Dell Road in El Dorado.

He was released on $25,000 bail.

5:29 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 39-year-old woman suspected of disorderly conduct on South Shingle Court in Shingle Springs. She was released on $5,000 bail.

9:09 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 28-year-old woman suspected of burglary and conspiracy to commit a crime on Meesha Lane in Placerville.

She was listed in custody in lieu of $100,000 bail.

9:41 p.m. Battery was reported on Investment Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

9:41 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 32-year-old woman suspected of burglary and conspiracy to commit a crime on Cable Road in Camino.

She was listed in custody in lieu of $110,000 bail.

10:13 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 67-year-old man suspected of driving on a suspended license on Cable Road in Camino. He was released on $5,000 bail.

10:49 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 46-year-old man suspected of burglary on Cable Road in Camino. He was listed in custody in lieu of $100,000 bail.

Feb. 9

12:20 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Highway 50 (town not listed). He was later released.

12:20 a.m. Battery was reported on Sly Park Road in Pollock Pines.

9:25 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 43-year-old man suspected of burglary, obstruction and a parole violation on Cable Road in Camino. He was listed in custody in lieu of $53,000 bail.

in which deputies learned Jairsen stabbed his father Justin Aitkens, 48, with a knife after an “escalated” verbal dispute between family members, according to Sgt. Kyle Parker with the Sheriff’s Office.

Jairsen was convicted of burglary in 2020 and in 2022 violated his parole. He is being held without bail

9:51 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Macleod Trail in Georgetown.

10:01 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Saratoga Way in El Dorado Hills. He was later released.

10:59 a.m. Battery was reported at a business on Green Valley Road in Cameron Park.

2:06 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a storage facility on Business Drive in Shingle Springs.

2:41 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a business on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville

3:35 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a business on Post Street in El Dorado Hills.

3:59 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of being under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance on Golden Center Drive in Placerville. The suspect also had a bench warrant. He was listed in custody.

5:23 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 42-year-old man suspected of possession of burglary tools, shoplifting, having an illegal tear gas weapon and possession of illegal drug paraphernalia on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. He was listed in custody in lieu of $15,000 bail.

6:02 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Hampton Lane in Cameron Park.

6:39 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 60-year-old man suspected of possession of burglary tools, passing a bad check and possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. He was released on $10,000 bail.

8:19 p.m. Burglary was reported on Heath Court in Pollock Pines.

9:08 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 40-year-old man suspected of vandalism on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. He was released on $20,000 bail.

on an attempted murder charge, according to Parker.

Justin sustained non-life threatening injuries and was treated at a local hospital.

Jairsen entered a not-guilty plea during his arraignment the afternoon of Feb. 22.

No other information is available at this time due to an ongoing investigation.

9:53 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 46-year-old man suspected of grand theft and conspiracy to commit a crime on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was later released.

10:45 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 33-year-old woman suspected of grand theft, conspiracy to commit a crime and possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. She was listed in custody in lieu of $3,500 bail.

Feb. 10

12:33 a.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 32-year-old man suspected of DUI and vandalism on Fair Play Road in Somerset. He was later released.

1:09 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 34-year-old woman suspected of evading officers and carrying a loaded, stolen firearm on Cutaway Lane in Placerville. She was released on $100,000 bail.

3:20 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 22-year-old man suspected of illegal possession of a tear gas weapon and drug paraphernalia and having a switchblade in a vehicle on Main Street in Placerville. He was released on $15,000 bail.

3:22 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 27-year-old woman suspected of DUI (location not specified). She was later released.

8:05 a.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 36-year-old woman suspected of possession of a controlled substance and a probation violation on Crystal Boulevard in El Dorado. She was later released.

3:25 p.m. Vandalism was reported on MacLeod Trail in Georgetown.

4:34 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of shoplifting on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. He was later released.

5:11 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 27-year-old woman suspected of possession of a controlled substance and being a fugitive from justice on Coach Lane in Cameron Park. She was

listed in custody in lieu of $12,500 bail.

5:29 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 20-year-old woman suspected of vehicle theft on Cold Harbor Way in Cameron Park. She was released on $25,000 bail.

8:16 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 44-year-old man suspected of a probation violation on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was later released.

9:48 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 24-year-old

8:12

4:20 p.m.

10:37 p.m.

1:40 p.m.

Burglary and identity theft suspects booked

Odin Rasco

Two individuals suspected to be involved in a string of crimes in El Dorado Hills, including burglaries and identity theft are now in law enforcement custody following a nearly month-long investigation.

Detectives with the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office began investigating in early February a series of thefts in which vehicles were burglarized and a vehicle was stolen. After the initial burglaries, victims later discovered their credit cards had been used at retail locations in Rancho Cordova, according to an EDSO press release.

Sacramento resident Amber Cunningham, 36, was identified as a suspect midway through investigation.

Surveillance footage acquired from several businesses where the stolen credit card charges took place allegedly

shows Cunningham making purchases. Warrants for Cunningham’s arrest and for a search of her home were served by deputies Feb. 15.

During the search of Cunningham’s home, items known to have been stolen from victims in El Dorado Hills were recovered, as well as other evidence “further linking (Cunningham) to the initial thefts and subsequent identity thefts,” according to the EDSO press release.

A second suspect, Sacramento resident Jonathan Reelfs, 36, was identified while Cunningham’s warrant was being served. Reelfs was later found to be in custody in a different jurisdiction. Detectives said they have contacted Reelfs and the investigation into the extent of his involvement in the case is ongoing.

Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to reach out to Det. Jeramy Buckman at buckmanj@ edso.org.

manager was paid approximately $70,000 for on-call pay in 2023.

The list of compensated employees is available online at bit.ly/2023toppay.

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El Dorado County Parks Division will be holding a public meeting as the county prepares the annual application to the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, to request funding for the Rubicon Trail. Individuals and/or organizations

“Posting the list to the county’s website is part of the ongoing effort to increase transparency in our county government,” Harn said. “The best government transparency involves placing all financial information online in a readily understandable manner. Government transparency allows taxpayers to see how our county is spending tax money and gives El Dorado County residents the ability to hold us accountable. The internet is a great place to enhance transparency.”

The cost of each employee’s CalPERS benefit is included on the list, but the reported retirement cost

are welcome to provide input on the applications. The meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 28. at El Dorado County Conference Room D, 330 Fair Lane, Bldg. A, Placerville. Stream the meeting using Zoom Link edcgov-us. zoom.us/j/85971794454 webinar ID: 859 7179 4454.

Questions, comments or letters can be submitted in-person during the public meeting via written comments,

at-risk population. In an average year, this partnership procures and distributes more than $3 million of emergency food assistance to communities in the county.

“Government transparency allows taxpayers to see how our county is spending tax money and gives El Dorado County residents the ability to hold us accountable.”

— Joe Harn, El Dorado County Auditor-Controller

should be reviewed with some skepticism, according to Harn. CalPERS has intentionally understated the actual cost of its retirement programs statewide, he said; undoubtedly, higher costs for the county’s retirement program and retirees’ health stipend will need to be paid in the future.

sending an email to parks@edcgov.us or mailing correspondence to: Chief Administrative Office Attn: Parks Division 330 Fair Lane, Bldg. A Placerville, CA 95667

Our sneaky phones

The government and private companies spy on us.

My former employee, Naomi Brockwell, has become a privacy specialist. She advises people on how to protect their privacy.

She tells me I should delete most of my apps on my phone.

I push back. I like that Google knows where I am and can recommend a “restaurant near me. I like that my Shell app lets me buy gas (almost) without getting out of the car.”

I don’t like that government gathers information about me via my phone, but so far, so what?

Brockwell tells me I’m being dumb because I don’t know which government will get that data in the future.

Looking at my phone, she tells me, “You’ve given location permission, microphone permission. You have so many apps!”

She says I should delete most of them, starting with Google Chrome.

“This is a terrible app for privacy. Google Chrome is notorious for collecting every single thing that they can about you ... (and) broadcasting that to thousands of people ... auctioning off your eyeballs. It’s not just advertisers collecting this information. Thousands of shell companies, shady companies of data brokers also collect it and in turn sell it.”

Instead of Google, she recommends using a browser called Brave. It’s just as good, she says, but it doesn’t collect all the information that Chrome does. It’s slightly faster, too, because it doesn’t slow down to load ads.

Then she says, “Delete Google Maps.”

“But I need Google Maps!”

“You don’t,” she replies. “You have an iPhone. You have Apple Maps ... Apple is better when it comes to privacy ... Apple at least tries to anonymize your data.”

Instead of Gmail, she recommends more private alternatives, like Proton Mail or Tuta.

“There are many others,” she points out. “The difference between them is that every email going into your inbox for Gmail is being analyzed, scanned; it’s being added to a profile about you.”

But I don’t care. Nothing beats Google’s convenience. It remembers my credit cards and passwords. It fills things in automatically. I tried Brave browser but, after a week, switched back to Google. I like that Google knows me.

Brockwell says that I could import my credit cards and passwords to Brave and autofill there, too.

“I do understand the trade-off,” she adds. “But email is so personal. It’s private correspondence about everything in your life. I think we should use companies that don’t read our emails. Using those services is also a vote for privacy, giving a market signal that we think privacy is important. That’s the only way we’re going to get more privacy.”

She also warns that even apps like WhatsApp, which I thought were private, aren’t as private as we think.

Letters to the Editor

Troubling

EDITOR:

Does it trouble any of my fellow Republicans that former President Donald Trump was found guilty of financial fraud, some of which occurred during his time in office?

BILL MOSACK Placerville

Good change

EDITOR:

What do you want in a county supervisor?

A change.

Someone new with fresh ideas, not part of the established order. That would be Lexi Boeger.

Someone who has ideas and knowledge to solve our housing issues and the resolve to make it happen. That would be one of our planning commissioners. That would be Lexi Boeger.

Someone who has an understanding of the wildfire, transportation and homeless issues and will make decisions based on knowledge and common sense. That would be Lexi Boeger.

Someone who understands us, how hard it is to pay bills these days and hold onto our homes. That would be the single mother of two children. That would be Lexi Boeger.

Someone who grew up here on a tractor, understands the value of agriculture and has a love of the land and its beauty. That would be Lexi Boeger. A change: Deep roots, fresh vision. Lexi Boeger has my support.

MARY ELLIOTT-KLEMM

Somerset

Preserve what matters

EDITOR:

For almost two decades, along with multiple community groups, I have been fighting to preserve elements of our historical, natural and agricultural resources that make El Dorado County so special.

Our family restored the Herrick and Hangman buildings on Main Street and I wrote the initiative to stop roundabouts in Placerville. For this, myself and family have been ridiculed and

retaliated against.

It’s been worth it if we can win this time around. I ask that voters in District 3 vote for Gary Martin, who will actually preserve what matters to people that live and come here to visit. Brian Veerkamp had eight years to do that and instead pushed and voted to overhaul our General Plan, rezone 36,000 parcels to align with a global footprint, voted for Dollar General on Georgetown’s historic Main Street and many high densities projects that no one wanted. His endorsements should raise the hair on the back of one’s neck. Winn (Amazon), Shinn (Development at El Dorado Y), Lake Oaks (Lake Oaks extension south of Pleasant Valley toward Union Mine), Kevin Nagle (owns part of Town Center), Sacramento Laborers Union (need to say more?).

Lexi Boeger stood up against the voter-approved Measure E regarding developers paying for their road infrastructure and which also limits grid lock. She also supports the projects on Placerville’s Main Street to modernize four of our historical structures. When the Ranch Marketing Ordinance was threatened, it was me who jumped in to try and make it not become a stick against farms, but remain as a protection. Lexi could not participate due to conflicts of interest … but where was Supervisor Wendy Thomas, who is endorsing Lexi? She was pushing this revised ordinance. (I do have to say that I got a thank you from Lexi)

Do we remember how Wendy welcomed the transient population into Placerville without the resources to handle and now refuses to work with the sheriff to work toward rehabilitation? Will Lexi continue this practice?

Residents in District 3 should be tired of lip service.

Gary grew up in Camino and his father ran an apple stand. He understands Apple Hill. Gary’s worked and is working with me on historical events and I have listened to the passion he has for this county. He does charity work for children in hospitals. He’s a person of service. He’s a helicopter pilot who has to make life and death decisions. He can address these pressing issues challenging our county. I feel this is our last shot to retain our sense of place and preserve what matters. Please vote for Gary Martin.

Stuff that is hard to find in EID’s financial report

BDistrict, El Dorado Union High School District, Buckeye Union School District, Lennar Homes, Rescue Union School District, Lake Oaks Mobile Home Park, Lake Forest Apartments, Red Hawk Casino, USDA, Visman Brothers and Battjies HJ Trust.

A chart shows water use declining as more dwelling units increase. The base year is 2013, when each equivalent dwelling unit used 0.479 units of water. In 2022 it was 0.239 per dwelling unit.

Total new dwelling unit issued permits in 2013 were 288. Issued permits in 2022 were 1,526.

City of Placerville, Cameron Park Country Club, El Dorado Hills Community Services

Part of the non-rate revenue that keeps water and recycled water rates lower include nearly $15 million as El Dorado Irrigation District’s share of the property tax revenue. The district is a multi-county agency as a way of keeping the state from raiding that pot of money. That is why EID

Total new dwelling unit issued permits in 2013 were 288. Issued permits in 2022 were 1,526.

has a small share of property in Sacramento County where about 300 homes are being built. Also contributing to non-rate revenue are hydroelectric sales, which vary.

The 16 biggest wastewater users in order are Lake Oaks Mobile Home Park, Vineyards at Valley View, RU

ITW Sly Park LLC, Wong Family Investors, Cameron Park Senior Living, Serrano Country Club, EDH Waterfront LLC, Mercy Housing, Lake Forest Apartments, Oakmont Properties Element 79, Cameron

Oaks Invest Co., Diamond Springs

Mobile Home Park, Cameron Park

Mobile Home Park, Verswante Homeowners Association and Royal Heights Townhouses.

The top 15 employers in the county in 2022 (plus EID) are in order: El Dorado County with 1,929, Marshall Medical Center with 1,498, Red

Hawk Casino with 1,200, Barton Hospital in South Lake Tahoe with

867, Safeway employs 843, U.S. government employs 647, Sierra at Tahoe employs 630, the state employs 568, Buckeye USD employs 525, Raley’s employs 433, Lake Tahoe Unified employs 413, Lake Tahoe Community College 256, city of South Lake Tahoe 206, Doug Verkramp Engineering employs 169 and Aerometals employs 167.

In 2013 the county population was 180,712 and the unemployment rate was 8.5%. In 2022 the population had climbed to 193,227 and the unemployment rate had shrunk to 3.6%.

EID has a firm yield of 63,500 acrefeet of water supply. In 2022 there were 34,808 acre-feet of raw water diversions and metered use of 24,400 acre-feet. Real and apparent losses amounted to 6,796 acre-feet in 2022.

Michael Raffety is a retired editor of the Mountain Democrat and Placerville area resident.

MICHAEL RAFFETY

JOHN STOSSEL

Katelyn Welsh Tahoe Daily Tribune

South Lake Tahoe may team with county on microtransit Strolling Hills pipeline design work begins

At a South Lake Tahoe City Council meeting earlier this month council members approved commencing negotiations with El Dorado County to create a joint entity overseeing South Tahoe microtransit.

Mayor Cody Bass, who is also on the Tahoe Transportation District Board of Directors, said, “This has been a long time coming.” In his five years on the board directors have been trying to find a long-term solution to get transit to the level they all know it can be, he noted.

The success and potential of Lake Link revealed the need for a managing entity that can procure sustainable funding for the microtransit service. City Manager Joseph Irvin said there are not enough state or federal funds for the level of service it provides.

In one year Lake Link rides increased 77%. In December alone, the service provided 13,961 rides with a total of 19,738 passengers.

But the service currently does not have a

dedicated continual source of funding, outside of the $4 per ticket fee from the Tahoe Blue Events Center. These fees provide roughly less than a quarter of the $2.2 million annual operating costs for Lake Link.

Since the event center opened in September, the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority estimates it will generate $340,000 by the end of the fiscal year in June from the $4 charge. A full fiscal year is expected to produce around half a million.

Irvin said another funding source may come from the city of South Lake Tahoe recently paying off its parking garage. It could provide upward of $700,000 in potential funding. It’s something he’s suggested to council.

The demand for Lake Link has led the city and its partner South Shore Transportation Management Association to expand Lake Link’s hours and service area. Organizers expect ridership to continue to increase with the expansion.

The recommendation to create a joint powers

10018

For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Monday, February 26, 2024

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

Crossword

n See MICROTRANSIT, page A7

Monday, February 26, 2024

Edited by Will Shortz No. 0122

Crossword

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Edited by Will Shortz No. 0123

Michael Raffety

Mountain Democrat correspondent

Domenichelli and Associates was assigned a $122,216 contract to redesign the El Dorado Irrigation District’s Strolling Hills pipeline in the south Cameron Park area.

That pipeline is where the force main ends and gravity line runs into Deer Creek Wastewater Treatment plant.

The mile-long pipe is 12-inch PVC, which has been found to be inadequate during big rainstorms. It likely will be replaced with a 20-inch pipe.

Design will take place between now and August, with construction bidding August 2024 through January 2025. Construction is estimated March 2025-August 2026. The 20-inch pipe will be installed parallel with the existing 12-inch line.

The consultant’s work was approved by EID directors 4-0 Feb. 12 as part of the consent calendar.

Stossel Continued from A4

“WhatsApp is end-to-end encrypted and better than standard SMS. But it collects a lot of data about you and shares it with its parent company, Facebook. It’s nowhere near as private as an app like Signal.” She notices my Shell app and suggests I delete it. Opening the app’s “privacy nutrition label,” something I never bother reading, she points out that I give Shell “your purchase history, your contact information, physical address, email address, your name, phone number, your product interaction, purchase history, search history, user id, product interaction, crash data, performance data, precise location, course location ... “

The list goes on. No wonder I don’t read it.

She says, “The first step before downloading an app, take a look at their permissions, see what information they’re collecting.”

I’m just not going to bother.

But she did convince me to delete some apps, pointing out that if I want the app later, I can always reinstall it.

“We think that we need an app for every interaction we do with a business. We don’t realize what we give up as a result.”

“They already have all my data. What’s the point of going private now?” I ask.

“Privacy comes down to choice,” she replies. “It’s not that I want everything that I do to remain private. It’s that I deserve to have the right to selectively reveal to the world what I want them to see. Currently, that’s not the world.”

Every Tuesday at JohnStossel.com, Stossel posts a new video about the battle between government and freedom.

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 TENNIS

CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Cindy 805-540-8654.

Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

LEARN & PLAY CRIBBAGE

Cribbage is a fun, fast paced game that will surely keep you on your toes! **All skill levels **Learn to play by ACC Rules (American Cribbage Congress) **Beginner instruction available **Compete in weekly Cribbage tournaments. Call 916-7684452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at Moni Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

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–

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. For more information, call (530) 622-1180.

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.

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.

WHIP IT GOOD

The moment the signal is given, 18-year-old Eli Hooper’s muscles spring into action, snapping forward a bullwhip with such lightning speed and skill that Indiana Jones might’ve been moved to tip his iconic cap. Competitors like Hooper convened to compete in Burbank last month, exhibiting their skills with a whip at the seventh annual L.A. Whip Convention. The air was filled with the sound of more cracks than a chiropractor’s office as participants battled in categories, including speed and accuracy, single whip freestyle, double whip freestyle and bullwhip fast draw. Hooper, a Pollock Pines resident, brought his best to the event and

Vigil Continued fromA1

everything. Nothing is clean now,” 29-year-old local Jacob Hancock said. He added he’s staying away from marijuana and ecstasy.

In a collaborative effort a public service announcement was released by police and fire authorities in an effort to increase awareness of resources available to prevent and treat overdoses.

“The tragedy and loss of life that occurred this week is devastating to our community, but unfortunately this is not an isolated incident,” stated City Manager Joe Irvin. “Deaths from fentanyl poisonings and fentanylrelated overdoses are happening across the nation and continue to leave families, friends and communities grieving. We hope you take the time to view the PSA and share it with others to spread the word about the dangers of fentanyl.”

Watch the video at youtu.be/ nclFHiytK1Y.

Unfortunately, the four deaths Feb. 12 were only about half of the week’s overdoses.

Just after 11 a.m. Feb. 13 there were two separate incidents involving overdoses reported around the same time.

In one event few details are known.

Lt. Jeff Roberson with the South Lake Tahoe Police Department said an individual was reported unresponsive on Skyline Drive and was revived.

walked away with two podium finishes. Improving on his silver-medal win last year, Hooper went undefeated and won the gold medal and a set of custom South African Kudu stock whips in the bullwhip fast draw category. The double whip freestyle competition saw a four-way tie for second place, leading to a 20-second sudden death whip-off tiebreaker; Hooper ultimately won the bronze in the category, taking home a medal and a Paul Nolan kangaroo snake whip.

Hooper has been cracking whips for half his life, picking up the pursuit after seeing the first Indiana Jones film when he was 9 years old. In addition to cracking whips, he also makes his own, and when he’s home he can be found performing with the Hangtown Marshalls.

pretty rapidly.”

For an employee of Ski Run Liquor Market there was nothing ordinary about that Tuesday.

“I literally saved someone’s life,” said Malia Shipe, who works at Ski Run Liquor.

Shipe said the man who overdosed, whom she now calls a friend, returned on Valentine’s Day to thank her. “We just embraced and held each other for a little while,” Shipe said. It is a day she will never forget.

A transient individual camping outside of the store drew her attention, Shipe recalled. She came back out 10 minutes later to ensure they had moved on and realized someone was being pulled from a truck in the parking lot.

“His body was completely lifeless, his lips were blue,” Shipe continued. “The police told me I could have died helping him, but if I hadn’t done what I did, he would have died.”

The man declined a request for an interview, according to Shipe.

“I was just begging the Lord and begging him, ‘Please don’t die on me, please don’t die,’” said Shipe.

While helping the man, Shipe was on the phone with dispatch.

“Another guy across the street asked if I needed help. We traded doing chest compressions and we gave him two doses of Narcan,” added Shipe.

Emergency responders took over and the man was revived.

In a more public display at Ski Run Liquor Market people witnessed the results of two men who were reportedly using fentanyl inside a truck.

“One (man) had too much, the effects were reversed with Narcan, and he is fine,” SLTPD Sgt. Nicholas Carlquist said.

“I’d say overdoses are common for sure,” Carlquist added, noting that one to two overdoses a week are reported. “Deaths are pretty rare. Especially with Narcan everywhere and the first responders, even overdoses on drugs that Narcan won’t reverse, are treated

Following the string of overdoses, Tahoe Alliance for Safe Kids, which began as the South Tahoe Drug-Free Coalition, in conjunction with Barton Behavioral Health and District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine, collected and distributed fentanyl test strips and Narcan throughout South Lake Tahoe.

“Forty-eight doses were delivered to the event center. Doses and strips were distributed to bars such as The Hangar, Whiskey Dicks and The Turn,” said Paula Peterson, a member of TASK.

Courtesy photos

Pollock Pines teen Eli Hooper, left photo, shows off medals he won in the L.A. Whip Convention Jan. 6. Hooper, right photo, demonstrates his whip skills at the convention.

Odin Rasco Staff writer

CAN’T TOUCH THIS Faith Spitzer finishes South 1 season undefeated

Mountain Democrat staff

El Dorado’s

Microtransit

Continued from A5

authority came from the multiagency South Shore Transit Ad Hoc Committee made up of the city, El Dorado County, South Shore Transportation Management Association and Heavenly Resort representatives.

City Council’s motion Tuesday authorized Irvin and City Attorney Heather Stroud to enter negotiations with El Dorado County on an agreement establishing the Tahoe South Shore Transit Joint Power Authority.

The state law allowing this collaboration is the Joint Exercise of Powers Act, which allows multiple government agencies to form separate government entities, often referred to as JPAs, with governing authority over a specific matter.

Irvin highlighted the importance of including the Tahoe Transportation District and South Shore

Workshop Continued from A1

private-sector investments or general profitability.

One of the 13 regions is the Capital region, comprised of Colusa, El Dorado, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, Sutter, Yolo and Yuba counties. Valley Vision is the primary point of contact for the regional effort, known as We Prosper Together, while the Sierra Business Council coordinates directly with the county.

The workshop presented some projects that had already had some momentum behind them, including a new nursing assistance program developed by the El Dorado County Office of Education, a teen center and sports complex for Diamond Springs and a community center for the recovering Grizzly Flat community. Participants were encouraged to consider the plans and bring their personal expertise and perspectives to the table, suggesting potential partnerships, funding sources or practices that might improve job accessibility. Additionally, space was made to brainstorm entirely new ideas that might become the seeds of a project We Prosper Together might further develop in the future.

After the presentations had been made, participants added their

Transportation Management Association in the new JPA’s conversations and to continue to communicate with both to ensure decisions align for the Tahoe Basin as a whole.

City staff estimates it could take about one year to form the JPA. Once fully formed, the authority will have its own governing board, officers, bylaws and other administrative items with the city and county as initial members.

However, before the entity is fully formed, the negotiated Joint Exercise of Powers Act agreement will go through City Council for approval.

Initially the JPA will focus on Lake Link. However, in the long-term Irvin hopes they’ll work with the Tahoe Transportation District and Tahoe Regional Planning Agency to see what fixed route services the JPA can oversee.

own ideas to projects, suggesting adjustments or expansions to the presented plans that might make them provide more equitable or sustainable avenues to employment. Suggestions varied from project to project, but focused in on questions of accessibility, awareness and availability; as the nursing program requires internet use, for example, one participant suggested providing temporary-use laptops to ensure to content was available for students who might not otherwise have a computer to use.

Each participant was also given the opportunity to mark which projects they found the most compelling, creating a kind of “heat map” Sierra Business Council could use to direct their focus later. The teen center and sports complex proved the most popular by far, with almost every participant using at least one of their four marking stickers to express their interest.

A second workshop is set to take place Thursday, March 7 from 2-4pm at Hidden Star Orchards in Camino; those interested can register to attend at bit.ly/CaminoIdeation. Participants can opt to receive a gift card for participating, equal to $25 per hour spent at the event.

COMICS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). The scene really needs you, though the others may not give you the credit or attention you deserve. The truth is, things will not progress without you. You know what you’re doing. Go on and give things a push.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You’ll do as you said you would, even if the only one you said it to was your own mirror image. That person is, after all, always watching and probably counting on the results you promised.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Generosity serves you well now. However much you’re expected to give, you’ll double it. You’re not trying to prove anything; you just know that nothing exciting comes from meeting an expectation. You’re all about being extraordinary.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You know an excellent idea when it comes into your world, and you’ll follow up immediately. Before you know it, you’re onto an interesting project, one that seems to create its own momentum.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You turn in a repeat performance because it’s your style, it’s comfortable to you and you’re good at it -- that’s branding. Then you’ll change it up. This keeps everyone on their toes. People get desensitized to typical experiences.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). While one part of you is engaged in the business at hand, another part of you is quietly observing the overall direction of an interaction. This sophistication is precisely what allows you to strategize.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You know what it’s like to come

to the impasse and realize someone has to back down, and it’s probably not going to be you. It’s the kind of choice you make out of wisdom. Why expend your energy needlessly when you can side step?

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). It does feel as though somewhere along the line, the thing that was dear to you went adrift, and now it’s just beyond your reach. But don’t worry; nothing is lost. This is just a good reason to stretch yourself.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Relationships bond through a process of braiding. They pull apart and weave together at different points in the journey. There’s a rhythm to it. Abiding by the pattern will keep things lovely and strong.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’re not really in competition for resources; there is plenty to go around. You are in competition for something, though, and it will be prudent to name exactly what it is. You have a better chance at winning when you know what game you’re playing.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Developing discipline is no fun, which is pretty much the point. You embrace the drudgery of those first minutes of getting yourself in motion so you can later embrace the reality of your dreams sprung to life.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You remember when you didn’t know the road, and now you walk it as though the map was etched on your heart. Your guidance will be crucial to someone’s safe passage. Like a shepherd, you’ll often lead the flock by walking behind them. .

of the alliance, Rob Harris, the group now boasts more than 700 members and counting. Harris explained the

is committed to stopping the development before it gets off the ground and aims to purchase the land to preserve its undeveloped natural beauty.

The land in question is bordered on two sides by the undeveloped Pine Hill Preserve and El Dorado County owned land — both parcels have been established as preserves for rare plants that grow on the area’s gabbro soil. RRPA members have said they believe the pond deserves similar protection for its status as a wetlands area.

“People have looked after this place, cleaning and maintaining the socially developed trails for 20 years,” Harris said. “If you go to other natural parks

in Cameron Park, they’re basically just utility easements and you’re just staring at other people’s backyards.”

Though privately owned, the public has been allowed to freely access the pond and trails for decades. Trails on the parcel connect to others that weave through the area, a web of walkways that span more than six miles total. TTLC’s project description carves out more than half of the land — 62.64 of the 104-acre property — for classification as public access easements. Representatives for TTLC claim the trails on the land would be maintained and improved for public use as part of the development process.

“This is quite the turnout,” Senior Planner Bianca Dinkler said at the start of the meeting, expressing surprise at a crowd that filled all

available seats and wrapped around the sides of the room.

Dinkler explained the meeting, held days after a similar one conducted virtually, was part of the early phases of the project review process conducted by the El Dorado County Planning Department. As a draft environmental impact report is compiled, the county is reaching out to the community for comments on what potential environmental impacts are of particular concern.

“The purpose of tonight’s meeting is to listen to you,” Dinkler explained.

Pat Angell, the environmental consultant from ASCENT Environmental set to prepare the Cameron Meadows EIR, also attended the meeting. Angell took time at the start of the meeting to explain part of the EIR process to the crowd; though the county may certify the EIR for the project, that only moves on to the next step of the California Environmental Quality Act process — it is not the same as the county approving the project.

When the podium was opened to the public for three-minute turns at the microphone, a line had already begun to stretch along one of the walls. The attendees filling almost the entire two hours set aside for public comment, with comments ranging from concerns and questions to outright condemnation.

“They are looking to expand to highdensity housing rather than the 1-acre parcel zoning that exists,” Harris read. “This project should never have reached this stage. This is not the first time the Planning Department had bowed down to developers.”

Harris asked the crowd to raise their hands if they were opposed to the development; a clear majority of the people in attendance lifted their hands into the air.

Concerns raised touched on a wide range of factors, from aesthetics to traffic impacts and ecological concerns. An influx of new homes might be perceived as an increased burden of risk for wildfire insurers, a concern that has proven all-toopossible as more Californians are left with only the California FAIR plan as an option. Increased traffic on already-congested roadways was a common theme of complaint as well; with only a couple points of ingress and egress for the development plan, one attendee asked if there was enough consideration placed into the potential need for evacuation.

“Unlike some other roads they can expand, Cameron Park Drive isn’t going to get bigger. It’s just going to get squeeze-ier,” one speaker quipped.

Paul Gilchrist, a member of the El Dorado County Fire Protection District Board of Directors, took his turn at the podium, explaining the issue was important enough for him to make an appearance despite his weakened health. Gilchrist had just weeks prior had a heart attack and a quadruple bypass procedure.

“This is important, or I wouldn’t be here,” Gilchrist told the audience. “I implore the Planning Department consider all the stakeholders — visitors to the area, neighbors and the environment. This place is a huge resource for our quality of life.”

Though the meetings have concluded, county residents still have until 5 p.m. March 5 to submit comments concerning the EIR.

Comments can be submitted to:

Bianca Dinkler

County of El Dorado Planning Department

2850 Fairlane Court, Building C Placerville, CA 95667

Comments can also be emailed to Cameronmeadows@edcgov.us.

Cameron Meadows Continued from A1

Cameron Park’s Rasmussen Pond and the surrounding acreage, left photo, while privately owned, has been open for public recreation for decades. The Cameron Meadows housing development is proposed for the 104-acre site. Many attendees had more to say than their three minutes at the podium allowed them to express and provided additional opinions via comment cards placed at the front of the room, right photo.

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

El Dorado County Planning Department Senior Planner Bianca Dinkler, left photo, started the meeting off, explaining the meeting was primarily to hear what environmental concerns the community felt the EIR ought to focus on. One question multiple attendees asked regarded flooding issues — if Rasmussen Pond, the area the development is set to build around, is already prone to flooding, what will it mean for the surrounding area when more of the ground that previously captured falling rain is paved or built over? Rob Harris, middle photo, one of the leading voices for the Rescue Rasmussen Pond Alliance — a grassroots organization opposed to the Cameron Meadows project — was the first to provide comment at the meeting. Harris expressed his strong objection to the developer’s attempted use of SB330 to allow for a much higher density of housing in an area zoned for one home per acre. Pat Angell, right photo, the environmental consultant who will be drafting the EIR, explained what factors the CEQA public disclosure process would look into. Only two categories of consideration are to be excluded from the Cameron Meadows EIR — agriculture and mineral resources — as the land is neither prime farmland or the ideal site for a quarry.

Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco Mountain Democrat file photo by Krysten Kellum

Registration

Two high school students found a way to show young patients love and support in the way of gifts and as many as 800 handmade valentines, making a very special delivery to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Sacramento on Feb. 12.

Oak Ridge High School sophomore

Aislynne Hartman and Ponderosa High School freshman Sophia Alonso had been planning to do something for children, particularly teenagers, in need since August.

“Valentine’s Day was always one of my favorite holidays in elementary school,” Aislynne told the Mountain Democrat.

“I always thought it was sad that kids in the hospital missed out on all the fun childhood holidays because they weren’t in school. My best friend, Sophia, and I wanted to find a simple and inexpensive way that kids could do something special for other kids. It started with just valentines, but then Shriners told us that teens often get overlooked during all their fundraisers, so we decided to expand our drive to collect items for teens.”

With the mission of “encouraging

philanthropy among students in their community while focusing on the specific support of children’s charities,” Aislynne and Sophia have completed the application process for their nonprofit, Norcal Gift From the Heart Foundation. The girls spent all of winter break filling out paperwork, designing a logo and more. They also put together premade valentine packets

The Master Gardener public o ce is open

for schools, including card materials and sample messages.

Along with the hundreds of red, pink and white cards, emblazoned with stickers and uplifting messages, Aislynne and Sophia also presented 290 new toys, teen specific care items as well as $2,800 in new athletic and leisure apparel. The drive was made possible with the help of students

from Marina Village Middle School and Holy Trinity School, among contributions and the participation of other schools and senior mobile home parks in the Sacramento area.

“By far we were overwhelmed by the genuine excitement and commitment that the students put into making heartfelt cards with really caring messages,” Aislynne shared. “So many of

the students we talked to told us how making cards for others made them feel so good and sometimes helped them get through tough days of their own. They were so thankful and appreciative and wanted to know how they could do more to help us next year.”

For more information, or to get involved, email Norcalgiftfromtheheart @gmail.com or visit the page on Instagram.

El Dorado High School students have started making the beautiful bowls that will be used at this year’s Empty Bowls event coordinated by Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference. Attendees will enjoy a sit-down dinner featuring live music and vendors that raises funds to fight hunger in the community and beyond. A signature of the event is that every attendee receives a keepsake handmade bowl to remind them of the cause. Above, Luka Peeters, Cruz Lopez, Bailey Plimpton and JJ Allen, left to right, shape clay that will be used to make the soup dishes. At left, artist Dean Bullert helps student Sophie O’Halloran shape a bowl. Bullert has volunteered his time to teach students the proper bowl-making technique for several years as, he said, he and his wife are big supporters of the Empty Bowls mission. Proceeds from this event benefit the Upper Room Dining Hall in Placerville, the Hands4Hope Emergency Food Pantry in Placerville and Earth Angels in Ghana. The organization is creating a self-sustaining fish farm in Ghana that will produce tons of fish to feed people in need and plans to expand the farm to raise other crops.

Courtesy photo

Aislynne Hartman, left, and Sophia Alonso deliver valentines and other donations to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Sacramento.

Mountain Democrat photos by Noel Stack

Step into spring with special conservancy events

Julie Allen American River Conservancy

The American River Conservancy has multiple events schedules this coming spring that will appeal to nature lovers ready to get back into the great outdoors. To register for the following events visit ARConservancy.org/events.

Mushroom Pop-up Walks

Join ARC volunteer Elizabeth Standeven for a meandering hike and mushroom foray. Afterwards, gather to see the diversity of mushrooms that were found and learn some basics of mushroom identification. The hike will begin with a brief talk to orient participants to the property and where to look for mushrooms. Handouts will help participants apply their knowledge as they assess mushrooms in the field. Local botany will also be discussed as it relates to mushrooms. Responsible 12-year-olds and older welcome.

Date and time to be determined (weather and bloom dependent). Register if interested. When the date(s) and times are finalized, details will be will be sent via email. Meeting location TBD but it will be within 30 minutes of Placerville area. Suggested donation: $5/members, $10/non-members.

El Dorado Ranch Hike

Saturday, March 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — The tour and short walks will be led by local historian Dee Owens and botanist Annie Walker. Walking any distance will be optional, as most sites are accessible by vehicle. High-clearance vehicles are necessary. We will drive to Fanny Creek, an area of early Gold Rush activity and mercury mining

a.m. to noon — Join artist David Yapp for a time of plein air painting at Wakamatsu Farm. “En plein air” is a French term meaning “in the open air” and refers to painting outdoors (normally a landscape or townscape) on location. This was a very popular approach of the French Impressionist painters, who incorporated the natural light, color, and movement of the outdoors into their paintings. Bring your own paints and equipment for a time of self-guided painting. You supply all your own materials and equipment (easel, canvas, oils, acrylics, watercolors, etc.), choose your subject and enjoy the camaraderie of painting outdoors with other artists. Instruction not provided. We encourage meeting together for picnic lunch after the session. Rain cancels. All painting levels welcome. Responsible children 12 and older welcome (with adult supervision). Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area. Cost:

Sunday, March 3, 10-11:30 a.m. — Join local mindfulness instructor Berry Crawford for a peaceful and relaxing event at the beautiful and historical Wakamatsu Farm. This event will include sessions of Qigong, mindfulness meditation and walking meditation. Learn to relax, recharge and let go with these ancient and effective practices. Responsible/quiet 12-year-olds and older welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area. Suggested donation: $5/members, $10/non-

Sunday, March 10, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Explore

the beautiful Ladies Valley with Kimberly “ShiningStar” Petree, founder of Cosumnes Culture and WaterWays. This 320-acre property in the Upper Cosumnes River was purchased in 2008 by ARC and is now owned by CCaWW. As a local indigenous culture keeper, Kimberly will share a Native American experience with education on local plants and wildlife, storytelling and traditions. This will include one hour of working the land, a 1- to 2-mile hike on uneven, hilly terrain and lunch. Steady rain postpones. All ages welcome. Meeting location: Diamond Springs area. Cost: $10/ members, $15/non-members.

Sogetsu Ikebana classes

March 10, April 28, & May 26, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Instructor Yasmin Spiegel is a “Sensei“ (teacher) in the Sogetsu School of Ikebana, Japanese flower arranging. Ages 8 and older with adult supervision. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area. Cost: Individual classes $35/members, $45/nonmembers.

March 10: Lines and Mass

April 28: Color in Sogetsu Ikebana

May 26: Intertwining Plant Materials

Wakamatsu Open Farm Days

Saturdays, March 16, April 20 & May 19, 10

a.m. to 2 p.m. — Site of the first Japanese colony in America, your self-guided walking tour of Wakamatsu Farm may include a stroll to Okei-san’s 1871 gravesite and Charles Graner’s original 1850’s farmhouse. Take a trip around the lake on the 1.5mile wheelchair-accessible trail. Bring a picnic

Best brews earn association’s top honors

evaluated entries based on aroma, appearance, flavor, mouthfeel and overall impression, adhering to the highest standards of beer judging.

Among the various categories — ales, lagers, stouts, porters and specialty beers — several standout brews emerged victorious, captivating the palates of the judges and demonstrating the diverse talents of the brewers.

For the 2024 Homebrew competition, entrant John Orcutt, a member of The Brewins won the Best of Show with his American barleywine (name Blarney Whine) which is a strong

The Commercial Brew Best of Show winner came from Ports O’Pints Brewing Company with

the beer POPS Oktoberfest, a pale lager. In addition to these top awards, honorable mentions were given to several outstanding entries that impressed judges with their unique flavors and impeccable quality.

El Dorado County Fair Association extends its gratitude to all participants, judges, volunteers, and sponsors who made this event possible. The dedication and enthusiasm of the home and commercial brewing community continue to inspire and drive the association’s mission to promote and celebrate the craft of beer making.

For a complete list of results visit eldoradocountyfair.org/ brew-competition.html.

I’m confused, Thrifty! The newspaper ad said that my favorite treats were on sale for $2.99. But when I got up to the checkout counter, it cost $3.19!

How can that be?

Is it some kind of a trick?

© 2016 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 32, No. 6

No, it’s not a mistake, Fritter. You forgot about SALES TAX. Sales tax is added to the price of many things you buy in stores, so you have to always keep that in mind when figuring out if you can afford to buy something!

Wow! Sales tax takes a bite out of my snacks before I do!

Many things you buy at a store are taxed. That means you pay a little more than the price tag shows to pay the sales tax. Cities, states and the federal government use tax dollars to pay for a variety of services and government functions. Unscramble the letters to discover some of the things taxpayer dollars buy.

Are you an eagle-eyed reader? Read the story below and circle the ten errors you find. Then rewrite the story correctly.

Taxing Solution

Approximately 300 years ago, Russian ruler peter the Great made sweping changes designed to modurnize and transform Russia and make it a more powerfull country.

This was to bee an expensive task and the solution he found was to taxe the Russian people. He found some unnusual items too tax.

Among the goods he taxed were hats, boots chimneys, stamps, basements and beehives. He taxed things like mustashes and beards. He even taxed birth, marriage and burial.

Everyone who earns money by ____________ pays a percentage of his or her earnings to the government in what is called an income tax

Most of this tax is taken out of a person’s ______________ a little at a time throughout the ________. But, once a year, people have to list both the money they have ___________ and their expenses to see if they paid the right __________ of taxes. Income taxes for 2015 are due by April 15, 2016.

If, when preparing your taxes, you find out you have not _______ enough taxes, you need to pay the government what you ______ for the previous year. If you discover that you have paid too ________ in taxes, the government will send you a refund.

First unscramble the words that describe the services which are supported by sales tax. Next look through the newspaper for five or more examples

... saving some of your money for the future.

This week’s word: REFUND

The noun refund means a sum of money given back or repaid.

The store gave me a refund when I returned the sweater that didn’t fit.

Try to use the word refund in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members.

How could you turn one dollar into ten dollars or more?

ASK A CARE MANAGER

Who knows? Who to ask when help is needed?

Their skills include:

My mother is quickly spending her savings and will not be able to a ord her assisted living facility. What do we do?

My husband requires so much care due to his health that I am exhausted. I want to be able to do it all but I have my own health issues. Is there a solution for us?

Carol S. Heape MSW, CMC

I live alone but am finding it harder to get through the day. Chores around the house are piling up and I know I should look for an a ordable solution as I grow older. Who can I talk with about where to start?

My husband is a veteran and we’ve heard there are resources that veteran families can access? How can we find out what those are and if he qualifies?

My parents live locally but as the only child, I am thousands of miles away. They want to remain in their home but I worry that with no help or local contact, something awful will happen. What can I do to help them and give me a sense they are taken care of?

My father is in his 90s, lives alone in a rural area and is very stubborn. He relies on a neighbor for a trip to the grocery store but refuses anymore help. He wants to stay in his home and not move closer to me. How can I do the right thing and still respect his decision?

• Knowing how much things cost such as board & care homes, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities or remaining at home with care to help families sort out what they can a ord.

• Talking about how to honor the wishes of the elder while addressing security, medical or daily care issues.

• Assisting with long-term care insurance policy claims.

• Understanding a veteran’s service and needs, including transportation to out of county healthcare appointments.

• Working individually with clients and families to develop a specific plan during the present crisis and planning on how to proceed in the future with the care manager at their sides to assure safety and client expectations.

• Interacting with blended families, same sex couples, estranged families or no family.

Receiving bad information from someone you believe should have good information can be particularly damaging. This is particularly true if the family is working against a deadline. The best information anyone can receive while seeking help is honest information. If an attorney, a healthcare professional or a MediCal worker is honest when giving out information, at least it can set the person on the right path to find out more.

All of the above scenarios are di cult situations older adults and their adult children have to address. It’s hard to know where to turn for the answers and sometimes a decision has to be made quickly. As we’ve all been taught or learned from experience, we look to the person or profession that will address the issue.

For example: If it’s a legal issue, common sense says to contact an attorney — one who has expertise in the area of law you need. If it’s a banking problem, you call your bank. The post o ce helps with mail and, of course, when you need food, there’s a choice of grocery stores and specialty shops. Medical problems are addressed with your doctor. You get the picture.

When are issues such as increasing age, declining health and an inability to drive, cook meals, balance the checkbook, etc., there are professionals educated and trained to help — care managers.

Credentialed care managers are social workers, R.N.s, gerontologists and other human service professionals who are experts in their own community, their region and their state.

How are care managers qualified to help families resolve complicated issues like the scenarios above? Care managers, many of whom have graduate degrees, have specialized in issues around moving, housing choices, public programs such as Medi-Cal waiver programs, veterans’ assistance and public programs funded through federal funds such as the Older Americans Act.

The term “care manager” is not legally protected. It’s critical that families looking for a knowledgeable expert care manager verify a person’s education, certification and training. A four year degree, a RN license and a master’s degree, plus additional classes and training, are vital to this profession.

Some companies or organizations advertise “free” care management but be careful. Plan on paying for the advice and knowledge of a credentialed care manager who works in the community. True care management companies are willing to talk to clients/families on the phone or do a short meeting in person at no charge. This short time allows both the client/family and the care manager to understand the issues and decide if working together for a solution is a way forward.

Note: Credentialed care managers may belong to the Aging Life Care Association or Case Management Society of America. Online directories can help you find one of these experts throughout the United States. Carol S. Heape, MSW, CMC, is the founder of Elder Options Inc. Carol also helped to found the Older Adults Task Force in El Dorado County and volunteers with the Community Thanksgiving dinner and the 4-H/FFA Junior Livestock Auction Committee. She began the first Alzheimer’s Support Group in the country, served on the El Dorado Community Foundation board for a number of years and helped establish the Sierra Renaissance Society, a lifelong learning collaboration.

Video contest a scholarship opportunity for students

National Special Districts

Coalition

News release

The National Special Districts Coalition is promoting its third annual scholarship contest for high school students designed to encourage young people to engage with local government to enhance their civics education. The scholarships are designed as awards for a student video contest operated through the coalition’s public awareness campaign — Districts Make The Di erence.

High school students in grades nine through 12 are asked to submit a short video (60 seconds or less) that gives a glimpse into the essential services provided by special districts in the United States. There are more than 30,000 special districts in the U.S., and they include a wide variety of services specific to their community’s needs. Examples include some fire districts, water districts, mosquito abatement districts, recreation and

park districts, cemetery districts and more. The video submission period runs through March 31.

Districts Make the Di erence at the end of May will award $2,000 for the first-place winner, $1,000 for the second-place winner and $500 for the third-place winner. In addition, $500 will be awarded to the students’ chosen teacher for the winning video.

“This scholarship fosters an awareness of local government at a young age to encourage students to gain an understanding of the essential services special districts provide in their communities,” said NSDC Board Member Neil McCormick.

Students can visit the Districts Make the Di erence website to watch past years’ video submissions and learn more about the guidelines for this year’s contest. Districts Make The Di erence also provides promotional materials for high schools to encourage participation.

Visit districtsmakethedi erence.org/ video-contest for more information.

Call

622-1255

and chair to sit and relax. On-site interpreters can share information and answer questions about Wakamatsu Farm’s human and natural history. This visit is suitable for all ages and capabilities. Points of interest are mainly outdoors, reached by dirt trail or unpaved road over generally flat terrain. Seasonal produce may be available for purchase. Amenities are limited, so plan for rugged outdoor leisure. Please manage your own trash and leave the land better than you found it. Steady rain or temperatures over 100 degrees will cancel. Check ARC’s event calendar for updates. Cost: $10 per vehicle. Buses and large vans are $5 per person. All proceeds directly benefit Wakamatsu Farm. For private tours, call (530) 621-1224. Find out more information at ARConservancy.org/Wakamatsu.

Meet the Lichens of the Sierra Foothills: A Guided Walk

Saturday, March 16, 9 a.m. to noon (rain date March 30) — Lichens are all around us, once we learn how to see them. Allie Weill will lead this 1-2 mile walk in search of lichens in the Auburn State Recreation area. You’ll practice noticing and studying lichens, distinguishing them from mosses and other fungi, learn about basic lichen types and learn the names of some common California species. Allie will also talk about what lichens are, what makes them special and how they act as bioindicators for healthy ecosystems. Come be “enlichened”! Weill is an ecologist, science writer and lichenology instructor. She teaches Lichens of the Bay Area at Merritt College and has co-led lichen workshops since 2018. Quiet 8-year-olds and older welcome. Well-behaved dog on-leash OK. Exact location TBD (Auburn State Recreation Area).

Tai Chi – Qigong & Year of the Dragon

Saturdays, March 23 & April 6, 10-11:15 a.m. — Learn selected Tai chi-Qigong movements that celebrate the flexibility, strength and upright spirit of the dragon. East Asians wish each other to have the “dragon-horse spirit” especially during the year of the dragon. Movements and poses will also pay tribute to the stability and dynamism of

the horse as we renew our qi for the new year. Dr. Tze-yue Gigi Hu is a semi-retired Asian studies educator and author. She teaches therapeutic Tai Chi and Qigong to selected communities. See her website, calmhappytaiji.com. Ages 8 and older welcome. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area. Suggested donation: $5/members, $10/nonmembers.

Where History and Nature Connect – Locally

Saturday, April 6, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Retired teacher, local history buff and long-time ARC member Keith Atwater will share his knowledge of history on this two-site visit to Georgetown. First, we’ll visit the Stifle Mine Claim/Traverse Creek Special Interest Area on this easy, educational walk. We will see where gold, Vesuvianite, serpentinite and chrome were mined, where Miwok Chief Coppa Hembo was born, learn about a long-ago grizzly bear encounter and maybe spot a rare wildflower. Part two includes a walk through the Georgetown Nature Area with more Miwok and mining history, for a total of 3 easy miles. Well-behaved dogs on leash OK. Recommended for history buffs ages 8 and older. Meeting location: Georgetown area.

Spring in the Home Orchard

Sunday, April 7, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Join us for the first in our four-part Home Orchard Workshop Series at the Wakamatsu orchard. We will cover the basics of fruit tree fertility management and examine several irrigation options for the homescale orchard. Discussion will be followed by a hands-on tutorial. Class taught by Ryan Bell of Foothill Orchard Care. Meeting location: Gold Hill/ Placerville area. Rain or shine. Cost: $40/members, $45/non-members.

Double-Feature Movie Night

Friday, April 12, 6:30-8 p.m. — ARC is partnering with our neighbors at the Gold Trail Grange in Coloma for this special movie night. The Auburn Dam is still a hot topic that is discussed and debated in our small community. The film’s creator, Steve Hubbard, will introduce the movie

and stay for Q&A. Steve’s film includes footage, documentation, interviews and maps of his search to learn about “The Dam That Never Was.” Our second movie is “Visions of the Lost Sierra,“ a look into the legacy of conservation that flows through the Middle Fork Feather River. Pre-registration encouraged. Snacks and beverages will be sold (bring your own cup). Free parking behind the Grange Hall. Cost: $5.

Wilderness Orienteering

Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. to noon — Learn the exciting sport of orienteering while appreciating the natural beauty of the 272-acre Wakamatsu Farm. The first hour will involve learning to use a compass, orient a map, read the symbols and practice on a small course. After a rest break, small groups will explore our large course around the lake and native plant garden. No map reading or compass use experience necessary. Ages 12 and older welcome. Steady rain postpones. Mostly flat, off-trail exploring in areas with starthistle and possibly mud. Meeting location: Gold Hill/ Placerville area. Suggested donation: $5/members, $10/non-members.

Poppy Walk

Sunday, April 14, 1-5 p.m. — Robin Center, longtime ARC supporter and Coloma river-front property owner (along with neighbors Barbara & David Thomas, and Naturalist Andie Thrams &

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College-bound STEM students could

The PG&E Corporation Foundation invites applicants for its annual Better Together STEM Scholarship Program for students pursuing science, technology, engineering and math disciplines.

The PG&E Foundation will provide $350,000 in total funding for 60 scholarships in the amounts of $10,000, $5,000 and $2,500 awards for eligible students.

Better Together STEM Scholarships are designed to give the next generation of Californians an opportunity to learn and succeed in higher education and support students who have made an impact in their community or who have overcome personal challenges.

“The PG&E Corporation Foundation is honored to help students as they pursue their dreams of becoming future scientists, innovators and engineers who give back to our state and communities and lay the critical building blocks for our clean energy future. For more than 10 years, we’ve been assisting students and their families who may be struggling to afford the cost of higher education — and there is no greater pride than

Dennis Eagan will lead this one-of-akind Poppy Walk (bloom dependent). With glowing orange fields overlooking the crystal water of the South Fork of the American River, the stunning contrasts and vibrant colors are a sight few have the good fortune to witness. The river trail is very steep in places, but has a good flat bed. Hiking to the flowers takes about 15-20 minutes. The river trail also has views of some of the earliest land that ARC protected around Triple Threat Rapid. Healthy snacks and punch will await your return. Meeting location: Coloma/Lotus area. Cost: $35 per person.

El Dorado Ranch Supporter Hikes

April 14 & 27 and May 10 & 19: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Join ARC staff on one of these exclusive hikes to the future site of El Dorado County’s first wildlife area. All hikes are a moderate level at 4 miles for four hours on uneven terrain with an elevation changes of approximately 700 feet.

seeing our young people blossom and thrive in their academic endeavors,” said Carla Peterman, PG&E Corporation executive vice president, corporate affairs and chief sustainability officer, and chair of the Board of The Foundation.

The Better Together STEM Scholarship program continues to help lessen the financial burden of attending college for even more students and their families. Last year the foundation added a new $5,000 scholarship that grew the scholarships’ reach to 20 additional students — up from 40 to 60.

In 2022, responding to a trend in applications from students admitted to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, eligibility expanded to students planning to attend HBCUs anywhere in the United States, in addition to California colleges and universities.

Since 2012 the Better Together STEM Scholarship Program has awarded $7.1 million to accomplished students based on a combined demonstration of community leadership, personal triumph, financial need and academic achievement.

Deadline and criteria

Interested applicants can learn more and apply

It All Begins in the Nest

Thursday, May 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m. — In this virtual presentation, naturalist David Lukas will introduce us to bird nests and eggs. Spring is the most important time of the year for birds, yet much of this exuberant activity remains hidden from view. We will peek into the tender moments and care that go into making carefully crafted nests and rearing eggs that turn into the hungry chicks and feisty nestlings we see all around us. Lukas (lukasguides.com) is a professional naturalist and author of Sierra Nevada Birds, Sierra Nevada Natural History, and Wild Birds of California. Donations appreciated.

Capturing Wakamatsu: A Poetry Walk/Workshop

Sunday, May 1, 10 am. to noon — Taylor Graham, El Dorado County’s first poet laureate, and awardwinning Sacramento-area poet Katy Brown will lead an exploration of farmhouse, barn and surroundings,

online at pge.com; search for scholarships. Deadline to apply is March 15. Scholarships will be awarded by August. Scholarships will be awarded based on academic achievement, demonstrated participation and leadership in school and community activities and financial need. Students must pursue qualifying degrees in STEM disciplines include engineering, computer science/information systems, cybersecurity, environmental sciences math and physics.

Applications are open to:

• High school seniors or graduates

• Students who have received a GED certification

• Current undergraduate students

• Non-traditional students or military veterans returning to school or pursuing their first undergraduate degree

• Applicants must live or be a dependent of a resident in PG&E’s service area in Northern and Central California; plan to enroll in fulltime undergraduate study for the entire 202425 academic year; and be seeking their first undergraduate degree at an accredited four-year institution in California or HBCU.

then ask participants to write a poem inspired by what they’ve experienced. Anyone who wishes to may share their poems with the group and ARC. Children 8 and older welcome with adult supervision. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area. Suggested donation: $5/members, $10/nonmembers.

Walk Like a Wild Human

Saturday, May 18, 2-4 p.m. — Over the past centuries of sedentary, industrialized life, people have adopted ways of moving that are not optimal for our health. In this workshop, you will learn the basic principles of natural movement and natural navigation, relying on your senses and perceptive abilities to find a new way to cross the ground. You’ll discover how to realign your posture, protect your back, and gain new confidence with hiking. Jessica Carew Kraft is a wild fitness instructor and the author of “Why We Need to Be Wild: One Woman’s Quest for Ancient Human Answers to 21st Century Problems” (2023). Ages 10 and older welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/

Placerville area. Suggested donation: $5/members, $10/non-members.

Using Your Spice Rack as a Medicine Chest

Sunday, May 19, 1-3 p.m. — In this class Candis Cantin will help you understand common spices as potent herbal remedies. You will learn how to make teas, honey blends, oils, tinctures and poultices. Also, the benefits of herbal baths will be covered, as well as how various herbs can be used for their aromas for calming and sleep. Cantin has over 40 years practical experience as an herbalist, herbal and nutritional counselor and teacher of holistic lifestyle principles. She has owned and directed the EverGreen Herb Garden and School of Integrative Herbology located in the Sierra foothills, where there are extensive organic botanical gardens to view. You can view her gardens at evergreenherbgarden.org. Ages 10 and older welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area. Cost: $10/members, $15/nonmembers.

Friday

Frances

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