Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, March 13, 2024

HEROIC HONOREES

EDC’s finest save the day

FEl Dorado

Of

paramedic Spencer Morgan and firefighter/ EMT Alex Vretzos.

Diamond Springs-El Dorado Battalion Chief Jack Daniels cited one incident that occurred May 30, 2023, a day

Daniels said “started out like any other but quickly turned into a test of skill for the honorees.”

That morning the trio rushed in Engine 49 and Medic 49 to the

agency serves.

Installation of the tank for water storage will increase available fire flows for firefighting e orts during adverse events. The increased storage capability will also bolster readily

aid of a man having seizures who ended up in cardiac arrest. The trio faced a life and death situation for the patient and wasted no

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EDC voters choose Veerkamp, Turnboo and Ferrero

Mountain Democrat sta

As the El Dorado County Elections Department finalizes its ballot count, frontrunners in El Dorado County supervisor races are poised to take their seats in January 2025 — Brian Veerkamp in District 3, George Turnboo in District 2 and Greg Ferrero in District 1. Updated vote counts released by the El Dorado County Elections Department Friday afternoon show Greg Ferrero staying squarely in the lead for the District 1 board seat left open by a termed-out John Hidahl. The count gives retired law enforcement professional Ferrero 63.74% of the vote in the district, which encompasses most of El Dorado Hills. Ferrero’s chief competition, charter school creator Margaret Fortune, trails behind at 28.91% of the vote, while Linda Campbell sits at 7.35% of the count.

On his campaign Facebook page, Ferrero thanks all his supporters, volunteers and donors.

“Throughout my campaign, I have had the privilege of visiting

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available clean water supply, ensuring uninterrupted service access.

Congressman Kevin Kiley advocated for GDPUD and the communities it serves through his submittal of the project to the House Appropriations Committee for consideration.

The U.S. House of Representatives on March 6 passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, which included $22,257,000 in federal assistance for 13 safety, water and transportation and infrastructure projects in Kiley’s 3rd Congressional District, including GDPUD’s 2-million-gallon tank. Both California Sens. Alex Padilla and the

late Dianne Feinstein supported the project, which made each of their original lists for submittal to the Senate Appropriations Committee. The dual support from lawmakers in both the House and the Senate assisted greatly with enactment.

Feinstein’s projects were picked up and supported by interim Sen. Laphonza Butler, who finishes her term this year.

GDPUD leadership expressed appreciation for the e orts Kiley, Padilla, Feinstein and Butler in championing the water tank project that will serve to protect and provide for Divide communities as the water district works to build a resilient future for those it

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BRIAN VEERKAMP

GEORGE TURNBOO

GREG FERRERO

Mountain Democrat photos by Eric Jaramishian

Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District Capt. Spencer Morgan, engineer Beau Mollet and firefighter Alex Vretzos,

from left, accept certificates of appreciation from Mother Lode Lion Roger Royal at the Mother Lode Lions Club Hall during the organization’s first responder recognition event March 7.

County sheriff’s deputies Jeff Whitlock, left, and Kyle Emmitt are making a difference at the Sheriff’s Office. Whitlock has pushed for crisis prevention training for sheriff’s personnel and Emmitt has shown mastery in operating the Rook SWAT robot.

OBITUARIES

Gwendolyn Joyce (Lindner) Upshaw

June 23, 1926 – Feb. 23, 2024

Gwen Upshaw, age 97, passed peacefully at her home in Port Townsend, Washington on Friday, February 23, 2024. She and her husband of 67 years, Rev. Jim Upshaw, were longtime residents of Placerville. She is survived by daughters Mary (John Endres) Upshaw, Susanne (Lindy) Heidt, and son Jim (Cyndy) Upshaw III, and was “Grandma Gwen” to ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and loved by many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 18, 2024 at 1:00pm, at the El Dorado County Federated Church, 1031 Thompson Way, Placerville, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hospice Foundation for Je erson Healthcare in Port Townsend, WA, or Snowline Hospice, Placerville.

County. This notification is to provide clear instructions so that appropriate protective measures can be taken for anyone at risk.

If you were in the UC Davis ED March 5 between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m., contact the El Dorado County Public Health line at: Placerville (530) 621-6320

South Lake Tahoe (530) 5733154

“We will be receiving a list of those who were confirmed at the UC Davis emergency department at that time and will

El Dorado

be contacting those individuals for further instructions,” said Dr. Matthew Minson, El Dorado County Public Health O cer. “Please do not go directly to the emergency department as that could increase spread and put others at risk.”

Measles is a serious illness especially for the very young, pregnant individuals and immunocompromised people. It can be prevented with vaccination. If you suspect you or someone you know has measles, early evaluation is critical.

ABC shoulder tap sting cites 175

California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control

News release

supervised by law enforcement stand outside stores that sell alcohol and ask customers to make a purchase for them. The minor says they are underage and cannot purchase the alcohol. Adults who agree may be arrested and cited for furnishing alcohol to a minor.

LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES

SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control teamed up with more than 50 law enforcement agencies throughout the state in an operation that netted 175 citations March 9.

Three of those citations were given in South Lake Tahoe, according to ABC spokesman Aaron Francis.

Shoulder Tap operations focus on adults who purchase alcohol for people under the age of 21. The statewide e ort’s goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of underage drinking and the potential legal repercussions on those who supply minors with alcohol.

“Each year hundreds of o cers from partner agencies across California join with our agents to draw awareness to the fact that it’s illegal to purchase alcohol for minors,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough. “These operations will continue throughout the year to enhance public safety.”

During a shoulder tap operation, minors

CRIME LOG

The following was taken from Placerville Police Department logs:

Feb. 29

11:43 a.m. Petty theft was reported on Sacramento Street.

12:51 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 47-year-old man suspected of possession of illegal drug paraphernalia, obstruction and a parole violation on Broadway. He was listed in custody in lieu of $3,000 bail.

1:53 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 30-year-old man suspected of a probation violation on Village Lane. He was later released.

March 1

9:07 a.m. Vandalism was reported at an eatery on Fair Lane.

9:26 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Woodridge Court.

1:39 p.m. Petty theft was reported on Main Street.

4:32 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a store on Placerville Drive.

5:06 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a store on Forni Road.

March 2

5:46 a.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported on Broadway.

9:53 a.m. Petty theft was reported at a store on Forni Road.

10:31 a.m. Grand theft was reported at a store on Forni Road.

March 3

8:03 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 58-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia and a probation violation on Ray Lawyer Drive. He was listed in custody in lieu of $85,000 bail.

March 4

2:21 a.m. A possible prowler was reported on Cedar Ravine Road.

1:29 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 22-year-old man suspected of vandalism on Marshall Way. He was released on $25,000 bail.

1:38 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a

The purpose of the operation is to keep alcohol out of the hands of underage individuals. According to the National Highway Tra c Safety Administration, car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens. Of those crashes, 27% of drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 had a blood alcohol content of .01 or higher.

The operation resulted in citations for 159 individuals who allegedly furnished alcoholic beverages to minors. At least 16 other individuals were cited for driving under the influence, parole violations or other infractions. The operation demonstrates the serious consequences for adults who buy alcohol for minors. The penalty for furnishing alcohol to a minor is a minimum $1,000 fine and 24 hours of community service.

The local operations were funded by ABC’s Alcohol Policing Partnership program and the California O ce of Tra c Safety through NHTSA.

business on Broadway.

3:19 p.m. Vandalism was reported at the Center Street parking garage.

3:24 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Skyline Drive.

4:27 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of disorderly conduct, obstruction and being a public nuisance on Main Street. He was release on $3,000 bail.

8:16 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 58-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia, possession of burglary tools, identity theft, burglary and appropriating lost property on Broadway. He was released on $70,000 bail.

March 5

9:49 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a facility on Broadway.

9:52 a.m. O cers booked into jail

a 31-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia and being under the in uence of a controlled substance on Placerville Drive. He was later released.

10:07 a.m. Battery was reported on Marshall Way.

11:12 a.m. Petty theft was reported on Hidden Springs Circle.

1:01 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 65-year-old man suspected of vandalism, battery and trespassing on Marshall Way. He was later released.

1:48 p.m. Battery was reported on Clay Street.

March 6

12:06 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 37-year-old woman suspected of possession of a switchblade and illegal drug paraphernalia, vehicle theft, transportation of a controlled substance, possession fo burglary tools and conspiracy to commit a crime on Coloma Street. She was released on $200,000 bail.

12:10 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 57-year-old man suspected of

possession of a controlled substance and conspiracy to commit a crime on Coloma Street. He was released on $195,000 bail.

3:42 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 35-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance, receiving stolen property and a parole violation on Marshall Way. He was listed in custody in lieu of $507,000 bail.

7:58 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 49-year-old man suspected of trespassing and ling to register as a sex o ender on Placerville Drive. He was listed in custody in lieu of $565,000 bail.

9:11 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 22-year-old man suspected of burglary and making criminal threats on Hawks Landing Court. He was released on $100,000 bail.

9:59 p.m. Vandalism was reported at the park and ride on Forni Road.

March 7

5:18 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 35-year-old man suspected of reckless driving,

and a

CNISSF STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

El Dorado races to 3rd alpine crown

Mountain Democrat staff

El Dorado and Oak Ridge ski and snowboard teams proved they are the state’s fastest in the California Nevada Interscholastic Ski and Snowboard Association Championships held March 4-7 at Mt. Shasta Ski Park.

In the end it was El Dorado that swept the competition to take the combined overall championship in an impressive three-peat. Oak Ridge finished strong for second place and the Ski Sportsmanship Award with Ponderosa not far behind in eighth and Union Mine making the top 20.

CNISSF championship results

Combined overall team points

1. El Dorado (2,100)

2. Oak Ridge (1,974)

8. Ponderosa (1,455)

20. Union Mine (708)

27th with 474 points is AAA

All CNISSF athletes (top 10)

Men’s snowboard

7. Mason Beverly, El Dorado

8. Blake Stowe, El Dorado

Women’s snowboard

7. Faith Spitzer, El Dorado

Men’s ski

2. Charlie Beckerley, Oak Ridge

5. Nick Wolff, Oak Ridge

9. Dylan Mcleod, Oak Ridge

10. Frank Stonebarger, Oak Ridge

Women’s ski

2. Carlie Chandler, El Dorado

4. Andie Chandler, El Dorado

6. Greta Aronowitz, Oak Ridge

Top skiers and boarders from the CNISSF now have their sights set on the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association Regional High School Ski Competition

March 12-14. Headed south to Mammoth Mountain Ski Area to race against athletes from Oregon, Nevada, Wyoming, Colorado and Minnesota are Markus Hirsbrunner-Reist (El Dorado), Nick Wolff, Charlie Beckerley, Frank Stonebarger, Carlie Chandler, Andie Chandler and Greta Aronowitz.

$600K to boost Máyala Wáta meadow restoration

The

Wáta (Meeks Meadow).

“This generous grant matched with federal funds allows us to move forward with vital restoration work needed to restore how the meadow functions in order to reach our goal of improving water quality and wildlife habitat in Meeks

Meadow,” said LTBMU Forest Supervisor Erick Walker. “We are excited to partner with the Washoe Tribe as we work together to implement our restoration strategy in this important cultural area.”

Máyala Wáta has cultural importance for the Washoe Tribe, but the meadow’s ecological health has declined since European settlers drove the Washoe off their homeland. Historically, the Washoe people used the meadow as a summer camp. They hunted, fished, gathered plants and held ceremonies in the meadow and adjacent Meeks Bay area. Before European settlement, the region’s frequent low-

Election results Continued from A1

with (thousands) of residents and listening to your concerns, hopes and aspirations,” the post notes.

“As District 1 supervisor, I am committed to addressing the issues of our community and advocating for the well-being and prosperity of our residents. I look forward to serving you.”

Fortune posted a message on her campaign website, margaret4supervisor.com, conceding the race to Ferrero.

“I look forward to working with him as I continue my role as an elected leader on the El Dorado Resource Conservation District Board,” Fortune states.

“I’m grateful for the support our campaign received. Thank you to all our dedicated volunteers who poured their hearts into this campaign. Knocking on thousands of doors, meeting so many residents who care about our community and want to see it thrive was the experience of a lifetime. I will continue to be an active contributor to our community and help shape it for the better.”

Four campaigned to take the place of District 3 Supervisor Wendy Thomas, who did not seek reelection.

Brian Veerkamp, a former termed-out supervisor with a storied career in public safety, was ahead on Friday at 6,565 votes, 54.59%. District 3 includes the Placerville, Diamond Springs, El Dorado and Camino area.

The runner up, District 3 Planning Commissioner Lexi Boeger, had 30.76% of the vote. Commercial helicopter pilot Gary Martin received 9.36% of the vote while Brian DeBerry had just 5.30%.

Veerkamp told the Mountain Democrat the results came out “a little better than expected.”

intensity fires naturally maintained the meadow system. Washoe Tribe members routinely ignited and controlled such fires to support native plants and game habitat.

Cattle grazing, logging and fire suppression have degraded Meeks Meadow since the displacement of the Washoe. The absence of low-intensity fire has allowed lodgepole pines to encroach on the meadow, drying the soils and reducing the availability of culturally significant plants. Such impairment also degrades the meadow’s function for wildlife habitat and water quality filtration. Degraded meadows also act as a source of greenhouse gas

“This is not quite my first rodeo,” Veerkamp said. “Usually when the first votes come out, it only gets better from there, but I am thrilled and still doing backflips.”

Echoing his priorities last week when the Mountain Democrat interviewed him on election night, Veerkamp said his first actions as a supervisor will be to take on roadway infrastructure challenges, help solicit stronger fire and EMS response services and to make “more responsible budget decisions.”

“I appreciate all the support (from voters),” Veerkamp said. “Everyday is sort of a campaign for me, having sat and currently sitting on the boards I have. I just try to help my community in anyway I can. It is about good governance and not about me.”

Boeger, a 30-year veteran in the wine industry, told the Mountain Democrat Monday she ran to invoke change in county’s processes, transparency and accountability as a supervisor with a “people-focused” perspective.

“I didn’t want to be a supervisor or to necessarily gain a political position,” Boeger said. “(I ran) based on practical issues that are facing us that are not going anywhere. Whether from the inside or outside, I’m focused on the problems facing regular people in the county.”

Despite being outvoted, Boeger praised her opponent for his experience and is confident in his ability to represent the county.

“He has a long and respected career in these roles that people recognize and I have all the confidence in the world that he will be able to keep this ship in line,” Boeger said. Though some ballots remain uncounted as the county waits for stragglers to trickle in from

other counties and to verify others, the majority of ballots have been counted as of Monday, according to Elections Department officials.

In the District 2 race, incumbent Supervisor George Turnboo maintains his lead. Turnboo has garnered 54.41%, 7,062, of the district’s vote, according to the Friday count. District 2 encompasses Cameron Park, Grizzly Flat, Somerset and much of the southern portion of the county.

Two individuals hoped to unseat Turnboo — Kevin McCarty, who works in business compliance and has background in land use and government affairs, grabbed 26.74% of the vote; 18.85% of votes went to Chris Cockrell, an owner of Sam’s Town Cyclery in Shingle Springs.

McCarty, the runner-up, congratulated Turnboo for winning his reelection in a March 8 post on Facebook, stating his confidence the incumbent will “faithfully represent all the people of our District 2 communities.”

“It has been an honor and a pleasure to run this campaign and meet so many amazing people in the process. I knew from the beginning that the journey would be far more consequential than the destination, and I cannot speak highly enough about all the people who stepped up to help spread the word, canvass neighborhoods and get out the vote,” McCarty writes.

“I intend to stay engaged with our county government operations in any way I can, not least of which as a private citizen, to ensure better policy outcomes regardless of the topic at hand,” he continued. “In the meantime I hope to stay in contact with all of you and look forward to speaking further soon.”

Turnboo did not respond to a request for comment as of press time.

you with

care, answers to your questions, and excellence in dental care from a caring staff

to your comfort, well-being, and sunny smile.

us for an appointment; emergencies are also welcome at our full-service, state-of-theart dental office.

P.S. If the tooth socket bleeds after an extraction, apply pressure with a clean cotton cloth but do not rinse your mouth during the first 24 hours, after which a saltwater rinse can help speed healing.

emissions, while healthy functioning meadows combat climate change

Courtesy map

An aerial view shows the Meeks Meadow restoration project area.

Courtesy photo

CNISSF’s combined overall state championship teams — second place Oak Ridge, first place El Dorado and third place Mammoth, grouped from left, celebrate their success March 7 after four days of slalom and giant slalom racing at Mt. Shasta Ski Park.

n See MÁYALA WÁTA, page A7

California Matters

Fewer students and higher absenteeism plague state’s public schools

California’s public schools live — or die — by the numbers.

They are utterly dependent on how much money the state budget allocates each year under Proposition 98, a formula adopted by voters in 1988 that only a few wonks in and around the Capitol profess to understand — and even they often disagree.

DAN WALTERS

Prop. 98 computations are also subject to political horse-trading during each budget cycle. Whatever number emerges is then distributed to school districts, primarily based on “average daily attendance.”

California is one of only a few states that use attendance to distribute state aid and a perpetual debate over whether it should continue is becoming more intense because two major factors in school attendance — enrollment and student absences — have been regressing.

California experienced rapid population growth over the last two decades of the 20th century, due to a wave of migration from other states and a baby boom. That translated into a 50% increase in K-12 school enrollment, eventually topping out at 6.3 million kids.

SUMMARY

California’s public schools depend on state aid for the lion’s share of their operational income. Two trends — declining enrollment and high absenteeism — are creating nancial headaches.

After reaching a plateau, however, enrollment started declining as the state began losing population, thanks largely to moves to other states, and as the state’s birthrate dropped dramatically.

“Demographic projections suggest enrollment will continue to decline across the state over the coming decade,” according to a recent report by the Public Policy Institute of California. “The California

Guest Column

Letters to the Editor

Bad parking

EDITOR:

On March 5, as I drove to the voter drop-o box located in front of the main entrance to the county o ce on Fairlane Court in Placerville, I noticed a shredding company truck parked sideways in the first three handicap parking spots. It made me wonder if the truck was there so it could shred votes. It sure was a very poor visual.

However, the thing that really bothered me was the fact that the county had allowed the truck to block the first three handicap parking spots to the main entrance.

As someone who has had a family member (my father) who was handicapped and often lamented the problems he encountered trying to find parking, I found this behavior to be insulting. I do not want to accept this behavior. To be so insensitive to those who need the handicap parking is both illegal and just plain wrong deep down inside.

I am a proud voter and I love and miss my father.

RICH STEFAN El Dorado

Reimagining economic development

EDITOR:

Iam writing to express my thoughts on the urgent need to reimagine economic development in El Dorado County. As an entrepreneur, an almost 40-year resident of El Dorado County and vice chair of CEDAC, it is evident from my vantage point of South Lake Tahoe that our community has never truly welcomed economic development and it is time for a change. We must reframe the discussion and realize that economic development does not equate to sacrificing our values or compromising our county’s unique character. It is a false choice that some would have us believe is our only choice.

Instead, it is an opportunity to shape our future, diversify our economy and create a sustainable community for generations to come. It is about finding a balance between preserving our heritage and embracing the possibilities that economic growth can bring. Ignoring the adjacent possibilities that a balanced and strategic approach to economic development can bring reduces the options for El Dorado County and is shortsighted.

Reimagining economic development requires an inclusive and collective e ort from local government, community leaders and the loud and quiet voices of county residents. We must foster a welcoming approach to discussing economic development, gather thoughtful and creative ideas, be open to change and make intelligent investments in resources that enable this county and its residents to have better choices over the long term. Simply saying no is an opportunity cost that is too great for this county.

We also need to ensure we are investing in education and training programs that align with emerging opportunities to ensure that our workforce remains competitive and adaptable and young people have opportunities for tomorrow.

We need to think strategically and engage in open and transparent discussions about the benefits and challenges of economic development. By addressing concerns and involving the community in decision-making processes, we can build trust and ensure that development initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of our residents.

It is time for our county to embrace economic development and reimagine our future. Let us at least be open to having open discussions, take a long view and create an environment that welcomes economic development while preserving the essence of our community. Doing so can foster a vibrant and prosperous El Dorado County that benefits everyone.

Liberal racism and ongoing denigration of Black conservatives

President Joe Biden stirred up controversy during the last presidential campaign, when, in an interview with a Black radio host, he said, “If you have a problem figuring out if you’re for me or Trump, you ain’t Black.”

Biden got pushback on this, but he captured a pretty common view among liberals.

STAR PARKER

That is, that liberalism is genetically emblazoned in Black DNA.

They see Blacks who are not liberal as not normal, not really Black. As a Black woman and a conservative for many years, I can testify to the prevalence of this view.

Now the liberal media is getting into a new version of this. Same story, but slightly di erent version.

The big scoop is that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has hired as one of his clerks a young woman who has been accused of racism.

Crystal Clanton, a magna cum laude graduate of Antonin Scalia Law School at George Mason University, most recently a clerk for highly respected conservative Judge William Pryor on the 11th Circuit federal court of appeals, was just hired by Thomas.

Clanton, according to liberal accusers, posted remarks, back in 2015, while working at Turning Point USA, saying “I hate Black people” with some profanity accompanying the statement.

Far left journalists, such as Ruth Marcus of The Washington Post, and Jane Mayer of The New Yorker, have been on the story for years — Mayer first reporting about it in 2017.

This despite no definitive evidence that the racist post was the work of Clanton.

Now that Thomas has hired Clanton, liberals have shifted into high gear.

With all the supposed concerns of the left about racism, none seem troubled or confused by the allegation that a Black judge — no less the most prominent Black jurist in the nation — would hire a racist.

How does that compute?

The answer is that in liberal eyes, Black conservatives “ain’t Black.”

Certainly, a Black conservative as sophisticated as Thomas could in no way be Black.

And therefore, he could even be a racist and sympathetic to racists.

Absurd? Of course. Is it demeaning

When will we realize that the real racism belongs to liberals who see every Black American as a liberal mannequin, denying their uniqueness, integrity and individuality?

and insulting to Thomas? Of course.

Liberals are not only very tolerant of sloppy thinking. They are also tolerant of sloppy journalism.

Mayer’s latest coverage, which she first reported in the New Yorker in 2017, appears under the headline “The Scandal of Clarence Thomas’s New Clerk.”

What is the scandal? Thomas has hired Clanton “who became notorious in 2015 for apparently sending texts that said, ‘I hate Black people ... ‘”

“Apparently” is enough for Mayer and her liberal compatriots to convict.

When Pryor hired Clanton, who had a previous clerkship with Judge Corey Maze in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, seven congressional Democrats called for an investigation. An investigation was conducted by Chief Judge Debra Ann Livingston of the Second Circuit.

The end of Livingston’s investigation of the incident was a green light for Clanton.

Livingston pointed out that both Maze and Pryor knew of the allegations when they hired her, rejected their validity and found her to be highly competent.

As part of the Second Circuit investigation, Thomas sent a letter saying, “I know Crystal Clanton and I know bigotry. ... Bigotry is antithetical to her nature.”

Thomas and his wife, Ginni, have known Clanton for years and Clanton actually lived with them for almost a year.

If she was a racist, how could Thomas not know it?

Yet despite this, liberal journalists continue on about him hiring a racist as his clerk.

When will we realize that the real racism belongs to liberals who see every Black American as a liberal mannequin, denying their uniqueness, integrity and individuality? When will we realize the disservice to Black Americans and all Americans in denying the humanity of Black Americans who are conservative?

Star Parker is president of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and host of the weekly television show “Cure America with Star Parker.” Her recent book, “What Is the CURE for America?” is available now.

CARL RIBAUDO South Lake Tahoe

GDPUD Continued from A1

serves.

“Protecting our communities and ensuring they are served with continuous high-quality drinking water is at the core of our work and mission,” states GDPUD General Manager Nicholas Schneider in a news release. “To accomplish this it is critical that meaningful infrastructure investments are made to strengthen stability and reliability. Appropriations funding assists the district in fulfilling its responsibilities to the community at a reasonable cost, lifting the burden of funding from ratepayers. These funds represent reinvestment of taxpayer dollars providing for future quality of life for the residents of the divide.”

Other regional projects to receive funding include:

• Folsom Lake Crossing Safety Improvement

Project: $1,040,000 to the city of Folsom to enhance road safety on Folsom Lake Crossing by adding a median barrier rail to minimize head-on collisions, injuries and fatalities. In the past five years, there have been 59 accidents, 47 injuries and three fatalities on this road.

• Highway 50/Empire Ranch Road Interchange

Project: $4,000,000 to the city of Folsom to construct a new interchange on Highway 50 to reduce tra c congestion and improve safety.

• Placer County First Responders Radio Interoperability Project: $1,000,000 to Placer County to purchase 160 Motorola APX 8000 dual-band radios for the Sheri ’s O ce. This project would improve communication and interoperability among law enforcement agencies during emergencies, resulting in faster response times and enhanced public

safety.

Kings Beach Drinking Water and Fire Suppression Improvement Project: $1,250,000 to the North Tahoe Public Utility District to replace old and undersized water pipes, install new fire hydrants and improve water supply for fire suppression in Kings Beach. This project would improve fire-resilient infrastructure, ensure adequate water supply for wildfire suppression and safeguard the lives and properties of residents and tourists in the Lake Tahoe area.

• South Tahoe Public Utility District for enhancing the resilience of critical water infrastructure: $1,000,000 to the SLTPUD to replace deteriorating water lines, improve infrastructure and install new fire hydrants to better fight fires. This project would improve water quality, enhance fire protection capabilities and provide reliable access to clean drinking water, particularly for disadvantaged neighborhoods in South Lake Tahoe.

The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024 passed in the House by a vote of 339-85.

“My top priority will always be protecting the quality of life in our area,” commented Kiley. “The federal funding we secured today will ease tra c congestion in South Placer and Folsom, strengthen public safety, provide access to safe drinking water and significantly bolster fire-fighting capabilities across the Tahoe region and Eastern Sierras. I want to thank the community leaders who worked with me to make the case for these important projects to improve our roads, reduce tra c and advance safety.”

Edited

Walters Continued from A4

Department of Finance projects that declines will persist at roughly 40,000 to 60,000 students per year, resulting in enrollment levels below 5.2 million by 2032.”

The inexorable decline in enrollment is exacerbated by a startling large number of students who may be enrolled but are chronically absent — what once was known as playing hooky.

During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic almost all of California’s schools were closed. But even with online classes, attendance took a nosedive. After schools were reopened, however, chronic absenteeism — students missing from the classroom 10% or more of the time — continued to be a problem. Prior to the pandemic 12% of the state’s students were chronically absent, but in the first year after schools reopened the rate was 30% and since then has declined marginally to 25%, according to a new PPIC study.

PPIC researchers learned the most absence-prone children these days are in kindergarten or the early primary grades while, prior to the pandemic, high schoolers were most likely to be missing classes.

“High levels of absenteeism among the youngest students is particularly concerning since absenteeism tends to have a snowball e ect: a student is more likely to be chronically absent in later grades if they are chronically absent in earlier ones,” PPIC’s report noted.

During the pandemic, school finances were bolstered by billions of dollars in federal relief funds and a temporary respite from attendancebased state aid, but both of those programs have expired so districts are beginning to feel the full impact of enrollment declines and absenteeism.

As the gaps between income and outgo widen, school o cials throughout the state are contemplating school closures — which almost always generate neighborhood opposition — while pressing the state to change the attendance-based system.

“Between 2012 and 2021, nearly 700 schools across the state were closed, resulting in roughly 167,000 students being displaced,” Policy Analysis for California Education, a multi-university research project, reported recently, adding that “Black students were more likely to experience school closure than any other racial subgroup. Black students represent nearly 14% of the student body in schools that were closed.”

Demography is destiny and California’s school conundrum of declining enrollment, high absenteeism and unstable attendance will become more intense. It warrants urgent attention by the state’s political figures, from the governor downward.

Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.

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 rst Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org

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 Sheri ’s o ce, 200 Industrial 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–

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.

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 rst 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 a ect 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.

El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf and Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District Chief Matt Gallagher cut a decorated cake, complete with sheriff and fire district logos.

One of the evening’s honored first responders was Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District Engineer Beau Mollet, pictured with his wife Samantha and their 15-monthold daughter Piper.

Mountain Democrat photos by Eric Jaramishian

Honorees Continued from A1

time to save the man’s life, conducting CPR and advanced cardiac life support that “proved to be nothing short of miraculous as they managed to restore his pulse.

“What is truly remarkable is not only their swift response but also the level of care they provided,” Daniels continued. “With the two experienced paramedics Capt. Morgan and Beau Mollet and the invaluable support from EMT Alex Vretzos on Engine 49, they ensured that every possible measure was safe and saved the man’s life.”

Their efforts paid off. The man was transported to Marshall Hospital with a pulse and signs of breathing on his own. While Daniels did not identify the man, he noted he walked out of the hospital alive and well.

“(The trio) represents the best of what it means to serve our community with courage and grace,” Daniels concluded.

Sheriff Jeff Leikauf presented two EDSO deputies. Leikauf first recognized deputy Kyle Emmitt, who joined the SWAT team in 2020 and has “embodied a heart of dedication and reliability.”

Leikauf specifically chose Emmitt to be recognized by the Lions Club for his mastery of the Rook, a bulletproof robot utilized to help guide SWAT personnel through dangerous situations, including shootings.

Emmitt operates the Rook during high-stakes operations that often results in safe apprehension of dangerous suspects while ensuring safety of fellow officers and residents, Leikauf told the crowd.

“Beyond his operational proficiency, deputy Emmitt’s dedication to community engagement is truly

Máyala Wáta

commendable,” Leikauf said.

“Through his volunteer efforts at various events he is fostering positive relationships with the community, embodying the principles of service and trust building. He exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding team member and serves as a shining example of dedication, professionalism and excellence.”

Next up was EDSO honoree deputy Jeff Whitlock; Leikauf described his commitment to the community as one that “extends beyond our agency.” Leikauf praised his involvement in various training programs, including spearheading crisis prevention training and leadership during search and rescue missions.

“By coordinating and facilitating these sessions, it ensured that our deputies, dispatchers and correctional officers are equipped with the necessary skill set to handle a mental health crisis with compassion and expertise,” Leikauf continued.

As a driving force in addressing mental health crises, Whitlock has a county proclamation in his honor for his outstanding response to mental health emergencies in 2021. Whitlock was also recognized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness El Dorado County.

“Jeff, your comprehensive contributions represent the highest standards of law enforcement professionalism. Your innovative solutions, excellent leadership and unwavering dedication to community safety truly (represent) the spirit of our vision and our mission,” Leikauf said.

All five of the honorees were given certificates and boxes of See’s Candy in thanks for their services.

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by capturing carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in plants, roots, and soils.

The LTBMU will use these funds, matched by $1 million in federal funds, to remove encroaching conifers from 213 acres of the meadow and thin 70 acres of the surrounding upland forest.

This grant builds on past funding from the California Tahoe Conservancy to support the tribe’s plans to restore the meadow in coordination with the LTBMU.

Other elements of the Máyala Wáta Restoration Project include support for tribal crews and staff

to complete prescribed fire training and participate in culturally guided prescribed burning. Tribal elders, youth and crews will plant culturally significant vegetation, remove invasive species and protect culturally significant plants. An earlier California Tahoe Conservancy grant will enable the tribe to ship biomass removed during the forestry operations to its headquarters for tribal members to use as firewood for home heating.

After restoration is complete, tribal crews will continue to monitor the effectiveness of restoration activities.

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

Each

Online

April

June

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

for new ideas is at a high. Life will line up just the sort of mysteries that most delight you. Ask purposeful questions and then listen and watch for clues that will help you put it all together.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Whether an idea will work is unknowable in the abstract. The only way to find out is to try it. As you move forward, you’ll be moving through the fear of being wrong, but don’t let that keep you from learning.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). There are many spiritual lessons to be gleaned from the canine world. The dogs stay very much in the moment. They own nothing and yet wag their tails every day, usually in response to the simple joy of togetherness.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). In the act of loving someone, you teach love and learn it at the same time. Tonight brings a discovery of sorts. Something has a higher value than you’d previously thought.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). If you want someone to blame, you’ll have plenty of directions to point it, though the fastest way is to take a breath and clean it up as you would if it were your mess. Even though it’s not, this may be the fastest route to your goal.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Even in a situation that’s supposed to be fun, you think your contributions will be judged, and you’re not wrong. Consider your contributions carefully. Where do your talents intersect the group need?

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You feel responsible for people’s reactions. The instinct to take credit for joy or assume blame for disappointment speaks to the connectedness you feel. Balance empathy with a healthy understanding of personal boundaries.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Though you’d prefer to have an excellent plan, today the action comes first and will seem to have its own plan, one that your conscious mind may not be privy to. Even so, you can trust yourself. Your heart is in the right place.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). It is natural to resist change. The unknown can seem frightening. It can be uncomfortable to do things differently. But because you really want a result, you’ll be emboldened to achieve it.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The urge to make yourself more lovable brings up questions worth looking into. Should you really feel so driven toward the effort? Isn’t your worthiness inherent? Who is making you feel you must work hard to earn it?

March

The

a guest for a complimentary lunch. This month’s speaker is Zach Bayrouty, voice of the Sacramento River Cats. Contact Branch 95’s membership chairman at SIRBranch95@gmail.com for more details.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a park party at the Jackson Elementary School all-abilities playground, 5-7 p.m. Enjoy free dinner, music, and family-oriented activities, including golf games

Bob Massad Education Center opens at Wakamatsu Farm

Melissa Lobach

American River Conservancy

To celebrate the completion and grand opening of a building under construction since early 2021, American River Conservancy hosted the ribbon-cutting celebration of the new Bob Massad Education Center located at Wakamatsu Farm in Placerville.

Undeterred by “blizzard warnings” issued by the National Weather Service around the grand opening date of March 1, more than 70 excited guests joined the long-anticipated and joyous occasion. They sipped warm refreshments in the chilly, gusty winds and occasional light rain under the cover of the center’s new roof. Fortunately, the open-air pavilion-style building fulfills its reason for existence as a sturdy reprieve from nature’s tempestuous moments.

Joining ARC staff, board and guests were honored VIPs who shared heartfelt short speeches, including: Chief Ranger Barry Smith of CA State Parks, Gold Fields District; Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Accountability Gabrielle Marchini of the El Dorado County Office of Education; board member Gregory Mukai of the JA Community Foundation; architect Peter McBride of ArchNexus; and metal artist Jay Stargaard, who designed and installed the new donor tree on the building. Wani’s Tacos provided wholesome food; Jeff Chamberlain performed live music; and former El Dorado County Poet Laureate Taylor Graham read her own poetry created during her long-standing Capturing Wakamatsu poetry workshops.

Docent Herb Tanimoto led a small group to Okei-san’s historical grave to pay their respects.

Field Representative Heidi Mayerhofer of Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil’s District 4 office delivered a Certificate of Recognition to ARC commemorating the building completion and grand opening, which states, “The teaching of the area’s cultural history, natural resources and principals of stewardship is a gift you give to all who will learn here and the places they will go with it.”

Last year alone, ARC delivered environmental education programs to more than 2,000 learners of all ages.

Both a California State and National registered

landmark, Wakamatsu Farm is the historical site of the Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Farm Colony established in 1869, which was the first Japanese colony in America. Since purchasing the property in 2010 from the Veerkamp family trust, ARC has improved the site with many amenities. Celebrating the Phase 1 completion of a new 1,920-square-foot building for environmental education is a fitting and momentous achievement during ARC’s 35th anniversary year.

ARC is grateful for all the supporters who have made the new Education Center possible, including the 19 generous donors now recognized on the one-of-a-kind donor tree. Alone they provided $423,402 of the more than $450,000 in total raised for construction completion. The building is named in honor of former ARC board

Local schools awarded ‘distinguished’ recognition

Dina Gentry El Dorado County Office of Education

In a recent celebration of educational excellence, Camerado Springs Middle School from Buckeye Union School District, Herbert C. Green Middle School from Mother Lode Union School District and Marina Village Middle School from Rescue Union School District have been awarded the 2024 California Distinguished Schools accolade. This recognition comes as part of the California Distinguished Schools Program’s annual tradition of honoring outstanding educational achievements within the state.

“In recognizing these school communities, California celebrates their accomplishments and commitment,” said El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala. “Their hard work and innovation have benefited their students and set an inspiring example for other educators. Congratulations to the teams for their dedication to education and for fostering environments where every student can thrive.” School officials shared their gratitude and excitement following the announcement. “We want to congratulate parents/ guardians, students, teachers and staff as this recognition is the result of the entire

Camerado Springs community’s efforts and is well deserved,” BUSD officials posted.

“Thank you to our staff, students, families and community for your dedication to excellence in education,” MLUSD officials noted.

“This award does not happen without the Marina Village staff’s hard work and commitment to excellence,” said RUSD Superintendent Jim Shoemake. “It is so nice to see their collective effort so publicly recognized.”

“The Rescue USD School Board is proud of the work of the MVMS leadership and staff,” added Rescue USD Board President

Michael Gordon.

Marina Village Middle School Principal Levi Cambridge shared, “This award is a tribute to the amazing families, staff and students here at Marina. Their dedication and passion for our students is an inspiration.”

“It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these 293 secondary schools for their efforts to provide exemplary public education to all students. Excellent middle schools and high schools play a critical role in the life outcomes of our young people,” said California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond.

“This year’s California Distinguished Schools celebration provides us with an opportunity to recognize the hard work of our secondary educators and school staff who help our young adults discover passions and access college- and careerready experiences that will propel them through life.”

The 2024 edition of the California Distinguished Schools Program highlights schools that have achieved remarkable progress in applying the academic content and performance standards set by the State Board of Education. Being named a California Distinguished School signifies a school’s unwavering dedication to n S

Photos by Melissa Lobach

American River Conservancy supporters braved rough weather to celebrate the opening of the Bob Massad Education Center earlier this month. A future phase of construction at the center, below, will add bathrooms and other amenities.

Mountain Democrat photo by Mimi Escabar

Herb Tanimoto, right, and Nao Magami talk about the early days at the Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Colony at the site of Okei-san’s grave. The tour out to the grave took place during the grand opening of the Bob Massad Education Center at Wakamatsu Farm.

PROSPECTING

Marshall’s rebranding honors its fiercely independent identity and celebrates its future as a healthcare leader in the region.

Marshall launches new look

News release

Marshall Medical, El Dorado County’s largest healthcare provider, has launched a comprehensive rebranding campaign designed to highlight its deep commitment to quality community-based care. The strategic branding rollout over the coming months will focus on Marshall’s exceptional services and highlight its best-in-practice providers.

locally and have chosen Marshall.

“Healthcare in our region is becoming increasingly competitive,” noted board Chair George Nielsen. “While Marshall has been serving this community for nearly seven decades, we now face several multistate health systems with facilities just across the county line. Marshall’s strength is our independence and our ability to be nimble enough to adjust to the needs of our area’s residents quickly and strategically in a way that larger organizations cannot. That is why we are best positioned to care for this community now and into the future.”

“Our patients receive an extraordinary standard of care at Marshall,” said Siri Nelson, Marshall’s president and CEO. “It is the same or better than they would find in any large city. The difference is that Marshall was built by and for our community, meaning that we can care for El Dorado County like no one else.

“Marshall’s strength is our independence and our ability to be nimble enough to adjust to the needs of our area’s residents quickly and strategically in a way that larger organizations

— Marshall board Chair

“For too long Marshall has been a quiet gem tucked away in the hills, but that ends now. It is time for our patients, our staff and our community to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary commitment to quality care Marshall provides to every person, every time,” Nelson continued. “Our rebranding isn’t just a new logo on a building. It represents a promise to an elevated experience and to exceptional care delivered here, in the heart of our community.”

Marshall’s rebranding honors its fiercely independent identity and celebrates its future as a healthcare leader in the region. Founded 65 years ago through a communitydriven campaign, today Marshall offers the same world-class care offered in large cities, the same pioneering clinical trials and the same compassionate care.

Marshall’s nationally accredited Cancer Center, a UC Davis affiliate, combines the strengths of an academic health system with a community-based hospital, making first-rate cancer care available in the region.

Marshall has been recognized for its stroke care by U.S. News & World Report, for overall patient and clinical outcomes by the Lown Institute and as one of 148 top hospitals in the nation by Money and national watchdog organization, The Leapfrog Group. Whether patients come in through the emergency room, birth center, surgical services or the family medicine clinics, they are met by highly trained, deeply committed professionals who have their choice of where to practice

cannot.”

As a part of the rebranding campaign, Marshall is dropping the words “medical center” from its name, reflecting the reality that care no longer takes place exclusively within the walls of a hospital. To best serve the future needs of El Dorado County, Marshall has offices and clinics in Placerville, Georgetown, Cameron Park and El Dorado Hills, where a new two-story, 49,000-square-foot facility will open this coming winter.

The El Dorado Hills expansion is designed to address the needs of the growing population in the area by offering family medicine, orthopedics and sports medicine, physical therapy and laboratory services close to home. Across the county in Georgetown, Marshall’s Divide Wellness Center provides many of the same services to those in the remote, rural area who might not otherwise have access to care. That commitment to quality care in all areas of the county will be highlighted as the rebranding is revealed online and through billboards, advertisements and in other forums.

About Marshall

Marshall is an independent, nonprofit community healthcare provider located in the heart of the Sierra foothills. Marshall includes Marshall Hospital, a fully accredited acute care facility with 111 beds in Placerville; several outpatient facilities in Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Placerville and Georgetown; and many community health and education programs. Marshall has over 220 licensed practitioners and over 1,400 employees providing quality healthcare services to more than 180,000 residents of El Dorado County.

Learn more about the organization online at marshallmedical.org.

GROW FOR IT!

An invitation to garden beauty – rose pruning primer

It’s that pruning time of year! The period from Christmas until early March is the perfect time to set your roses on the path to spring and summer beauty. Your bushes will look more attractive and produce larger flowers with a good pruning, and you can shape them to the proper size for your garden.

Donna Marshall UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

The health of the bush is also improved by the removal of dead and diseased canes, which stimulates the production of new growth through the emergence of vigorous new canes from its base. Even if your bushes still have leaves and flowers, their removal now is a chance to wipe away last year’s problems and set a new path for the coming season.

Tools — Use sharp bypass hand pruners for most cuts; long-handled lopping shears are good for thicker canes and give access to hard-toreach places. A fine-toothed curved saw helps with the removal of the thickest canes. A pair of leather gloves reaching to the elbows protects from thorn pricks.

Pruning essentials — Completely remove all dead canes (likely to be grayish or brown in color and shriveled) and canes that have been less productive with a clean cut, close to where they emerge from the crown at the base of the bush. Completely remove diseased and damaged canes or cut them back to healthy wood at least 1 inch below the affected area so the inner wood (pith) is white. Remove all suckers coming from the root stock beneath the bush. Select the strongest four to seven outer canes (likely to be smooth and green or bronze in color) to become the foundation for next year’s growth. They will ideally be arranged in a vase-like shape around the open center of the bush when pruning is finished. Continue to remove growth that is smaller than a pencil and which crosses or rubs on other growth with a clean cut at the parent stem.

Direct new growth away from the center by making cuts at a 45-degree angle, one-quarter inch above a bud that faces upward and to the outside of the bush. Buds can be found at leaf attachments; some will look

n See PRUNING, page

The Grove serving delicious meals at Camp Richardson

News release

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — The Grove at Camp Richardson Resort recently opened for lakeside dining. Formerly known as the Beacon Bar & Grill, The Grove honors a part of the resort’s rich history.

ExplorUS assumed operations at Camp Richardson in January with plans for $12 million in future improvements. One of the early renovation focuses was reopening the restaurant.

“Having dinner or drinks looking at Lake Tahoe is a quintessential experience at Camp Richardson,” said Rob Henderson, Camp Richardson general manager. “We are happy to welcome guests back with a new menu and updated and refreshed décor.”

Henderson added that a complete

renovation is planned for the restaurant in the coming years.

The Grove’s name comes from an early part of the resort’s history. In the early 1900s, J.C. Copeland and his wife, Nellie Parmeter Copeland, operated a parcel of land on the southern shore of Lake Tahoe as Copeland’s Grove Resort. A summer campground with cabins, a pier and a dance pavilion and saloon over the water. The saloon’s bartender later took over as owner and the name changed to Zeigler’s Grove until it was purchased by Alonzo Richardson. With his adjoining property, it became one of Lake Tahoe’s most popular resorts, Camp Richardson.

The Grove’s menu was crafted by Executive Chef Chris Ibarra, formerly chef for the Anaheim Angels Stadium. n See

Now is the time to prune back your rose bushes so they stay healthy and bloom beautifully this spring and summer.

The 8th Annual Stand Up For MORE Comedy Night will

along with a delicious meal catered by John Sanders. Shake o the stress of the week with this hilarious, fundraising showcase. Our Headliner, the hilarious Dennis Blair, who has been described as a Renaissance man. He is an accomplished screenwriter, award-winning songwriter, and comedic actor. Yet he is probably best known for the caustic observations and musical satires of his live comedy performances. Also featured is the amazingly talented Derrick Leonard, whose laser-sharp humor will have you in stitches!

Admission: $60 per person; $100 per couple

Tickets available at: MORE, 399 Placerville Drive Online at: www.morerehab.org

Pixabay image

Photo courtesy of Camp Richardson Hospitality LLC

Diners are invited to enjoy great meals at The Grove at Camp Richardson, which opened under its new name March 3.

Old Sacramento going green for St. Patrick’s Day

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

SACRAMENTO — St. Patrick’s Day is back and better than ever at the Old Sacramento Waterfront.

Downtown Sacramento Partnership welcomes back interactive and familyfriendly activities — a Leprechaun Hunt (now through March 18) and the region’s only St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival (March 16 from noon to 5 p.m.). Visitors will enjoy a Taste of Ireland (now through March 31) at Old Sacramento Waterfront coffee shops, restaurants and bars that are offering Irish-inspired food and beverages. The community is invited to bring the entire family to the 26th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival to witness beautiful floats, learn Celtic history and traditions, and shop local vendors.

Leprechaun Hunt — To go in search of hidden leprechauns, guests can pick up activity pages at the Sacramento Visitor’s Center (1000 Second St.) or download in advance to begin the quest for seven Leprechauns hidden throughout the historical district. The activity book is filled with riddles that lead participants to a leprechaun with a corresponding secret word to help guests move onto the next hidden leprechaun and the secret message at

The Grove Continued from B3

the end. Once complete, participants email the secret message to info@ oldsacramento.com by March 18 to be entered into a random drawing for a chance to win four tickets to City Cruises or gift cards to Rio City Café. Parade and festival — Families, friends, kids and the young-atheart are invited to join hundreds of colorful marchers along with

Ibarra, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, worked for various restaurants in Southern California, including the Westin Anaheim Resort before moving to South Lake Tahoe. Menu highlights include a bison barbecue bacon burger, miso salmon entrée, and fried chicken and beignets, a dish with ricotta beignets, coleslaw, spicy agave and powdered sugar. Signature cocktails choices range

Irish and Highland dancers, pipe and drum bands and a variety of cultural organizations at the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival stepping off at 1 p.m. from Neasham and Front streets. Emceed by iHeart Media’s KISS 107.9 DJ Strawberry, the parade includes more than 40 organizations and groups. Visitors are encouraged to line the boardwalks of

from a barrel-aged WhistlePig Maple old fashioned, The Kokanee made with Hendrick’s gin, housemade cucumber cordial, soda with a cucumber and lime garnish and, of course, The Rum Runner.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily, 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Other immediate plans for the resort include an update of all the historical hotel furnishings, a

L, Front, J and 2nd streets for the best views of the spirited spectacle.

Spirited community members can arrive early to the Old Sacramento Waterfront on March 16 as music and entertainment starts at noon with performers dancing throughout the district alongside a lineup of local vendors and shops offering “lucky” specials. Activities include:

• The main Shamrockin’ Stage will feature a band playing all day.

• The State Parks Stage will focus on entertaining and educating children about Celtic culture.

• The Embarcadero Stage will have a Sac Dance Labs taught class, music and an entertaining magician.

• Plus, a Vendor Village will be set-up at K and Front dtreets from noon to 5 p.m.

Taste of Ireland — Eleven Old Sacramento Waterfront coffee shops, restaurants and bars are offering a Taste of Ireland (now through March 31) with Irish-inspired foods and beverages, an array of corned beef offerings, Guinness drinks and Sean Finnegan’s Irish Pub will serve “Sacramento’s Best Irish Coffee.”

Revelers wanting to get a head start on the fun are encouraged to purchase advance tickets to the St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl (March 15).

For more information visit OldSacramento.com

remodel of the general store, with cabin upgrades starting later this year. Camp Richardson’s popular Oktoberfest returns Oct. 5-6 following a five-year hiatus.

Guests can also now book all the resort’s lodging online at camprichardsonresort.com. For the latest updates, visitors can follow the new Facebook and Instagram pages.

(530)

Photo by Alina Tyulyu

The annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival in Old Sacramento kicks off at 1 p.m. from Neasham and Front streets.

Pruning

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like red dots or green smiles, while others might already be pushing out. Remove all growth headed toward the plant’s center to discourage fungal diseases by improving light access and air flow. Shorten the remaining canes on established canes on hybrid tea and grandiflora varieties by onethird to one-half in length. Floribunda canes should be shortened by one quarter, with more healthy canes left on the bush.

Final steps — Remove and dispose of all remaining leaves, along with pruned cuttings, fallen leaves and debris collected from under the bush. Make a heavy application of dormant spray or horticultural oil on a day where there will be no wet weather for at least 24 hours. Thoroughly spray

Awards Continued from B1

educational excellence, underscored by innovative teaching methods, dynamic leadership and an allencompassing approach to student success.

Camerado Springs Middle School, Herbert C. Green Middle School and Marina Village Middle School have excelled academically and made significant contributions to their surrounding areas, setting

Center Continued from B1

member Bob Massad, whose lasting bequest continues to support ARC’s innovative environmental education in El Dorado County. The foresight of such generous donors will foster champions for the environment for generations to come.

Phase 2 completion of ARC’s Education Center at Wakamatsu Farm continues toward final planning, funding and completion. Aligned with ARC’s values of environmental responsibility, the structure will remain as “green” as feasible. Many costly and much-needed additions remain, including restrooms, solar electricity and water service. At costs currently less than $200 per

Know

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provided by First Tee. Be sure to bring your favorite picnic blanket.

Uncommon Ground will perform at 7 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Fade,” March 13 through April 14. For tickets and more information call (916) 9955464 or visit capstage.org.

March 14

Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery hosts a St. Patrick’s Day weekend event, March 14-17, featuring Lucky Charms Chowder served with homemade soda bread and a glass of neige. For reservations and more information call (530) 622-7221.

March 15

The Sierra Renaissance Society presents Medicine in the News, a presentation by Ted Christy, M.D., 1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. Admission free for members; public invited to attend two meetings for free.

The Sierra Renaissance Society of El Dorado County is dedicated to lifelong learning and hosts presentations and workshops throughout the year. For more information visit srsedc.org.

the bush and the ground beneath it to suffocate any remaining insect eggs or fungal spores.

Plant sales are coming soon. Save the date for edible sale on April 13 where Master Gardeners will have spring and summer vegetables, fruit and herbs for sale. All other plants, including succulents, shrubs, trees, ornamental and native plants, will be for sale on April 27.

The Sherwood Demonstration Garden is be open 9 a.m. to noon Fridays and Saturdays. Check the website for further information at ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_Master_ Gardeners/Demonstration_Garden.

Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. Find the class schedule at mgeldorado.

benchmarks for holistic education that prioritizes academic and personal growth.

The California Distinguished Schools is an annual school recognition program of the California Department of Education. Elementary schools and middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years; therefore, awardees hold the title for two years.

square foot, construction of Phase 1 has been well under California’s typical average for commercial and residential construction, which is also remarkable given pandemic challenges, material fluctuations and costly regulations for public use. Additional funding is needed to support Phase 2 improvements. ARC welcomes contributions of money, materials, and services to complete the Education Center. To support the project email arc@ARConservancy.org.

Learn more about ARC’s 35-year history of community service through environmental conservation, stewardship and education at ARConservancy.org.

1850 Cellars in Placerville hosts St. Patrick’s Day fun March 15-17, featuring a prize wheel, for specials and more. For more information call (530) 317-8084 or email info@1850winecellars. com.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Gilmore Senior Center in El Dorado Hills at 1 p.m. Call (916) 61403200 to sign up. Space is limited.

Neon Pickle will perform at

5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more details visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

Chad Bushnell will perform 8 p.m. to midnight at Red Hawk Casino’s Stage Bar. For more information visit redhawkcasino. com.

The Henry Robinett Group will perform at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Freelance Reporters Wanted

FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Like writing?

Have journalism experience? Enjoy photography?

Email resume and writing samples to Krysten Kellum at kkellum@mtdemocrat.net.

ucanr.edu/Public_Education_Classe s/?calendar=yes&g=56698 and recorded classes on many gardening topics at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/ Public_Education/Classes.

Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the “Ask

a Master Gardener” option on the website, mgeldorado.ucanr.edu, or leave a message on the office telephone at (530) 621-5512. To sign up for notices and newsletters visit ucanr. edu/master_gardener_e-news. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.