Mountain Democrat, Monday, April 3, 2023

Bly-Chester takes county to court

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

A former El Dorado County planning commissioner is challenging El Dorado County in court, alleging she was wrongfully removed from the commission and subsequently retaliated against.

Former District 5 Supervisor Sue Novasel called for Cheryl Bly-Chester’s removal in late August 2021. The board’s decision went 3-2 in favor of BlyChester’s removal with Supervisors George Turnboo and Lori Parlin the two hold-out votes. At the time Bly-Chester said she would file a petition to appeal the board’s decision.

She says the action was “a form of retaliation” against herself for calling out Brown Act violations during public Planning Commission meetings.

Now, she is challenging the county for defamation, whistleblower retaliation and wrongful termination.

She alleges her removal was a result of her complaints and that Planning Commission decisions were driven by County Counsel on behalf of three supervisors, Novasel, John Hidahl and Wendy Thomas, answering to private interests in the county.

Bly-Chester’s suit claims that not only did most the Board of Supervisors conspire to remove her from the Planning Commission but the Planning and Building staff retaliated against her by withholding permits from a client and a second dwelling unit permit for her own property. All requirements for the submittal of the second dwelling unit permit had been completed but were ultimately held up in retaliation against her, according to Bly-Chester.

The string of events dates back to an April 22,

n See Bly-chester page A3

Signage, striping, shuttles

study suggests solutions for Highway 49 at confluence

Odin Rasco Staff writer

Ayears-long study looking into a bevy of concerns regarding a stretch of Highway 49 between Cool and Auburn provides a list of potential fixes. Narrow roadways, tight turns, limited shoulders packed with parked cars, hikers and

Tahoe promoting

‘slediquette’

News release

With this winter’s seemingly endless snowfall, the Tahoe Basin’s sled hills have been packed with families every weekend.

After a day of fun, these locations can become littered with broken plastic sleds and other discarded trash,

creating an excess of waste on the hills and a hazard to other sledders.

Take Care Tahoe and its partner organizations have set up sled corrals to help manage this issue at five of the most popular sites for sledding in the Tahoe region.

“Cheap plastic sleds lead to an enormous amount of trash because they break easily and are difficult to clean up,” explained

Marilee Movius, senior community engagement manager for the League to Save Lake Tahoe.

“Not only are the sharp shards of plastic sleds dangerous for other sledders, they begin to break down into microplastics that will eventually end up in the lake.

Take Care Tahoe encourages all sledders to practice “slediquette”

n See slediquette, page A2

river-goers crossing the road to and fro and oversized trucks driving through switchbacks all contribute to exacerbated drive times and raise the risk of possible traffic incidents on Highway 49. The El Dorado County Transportation Commission, in partnership with California State Parks, Caltrans, El Dorado County and the Placer County Transportation Planning

Agency, conducted a study after concerns were raised by local residents and authorities in early 2020.

While COVID-19 lockdowns were in place in 2020, many took trips to the great outdoors; visitation to the Auburn State Recreation Area at the confluence increased dramatically in 2020 and 2021, according to the study.

n See confluence, page A3

Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco

Visitors to the Auburn State Recreation Area at the American River Confluence park along Highway 49 between Cool and Auburn March

Leslie Arlene McClone

Sept. 24, 1935 – Dec. 18, 2022

Greeted by her parents, Rosa and Leslie Fiechter, her sister Joyce, and an assortment of farm animals, Leslie Arlene arrived at the Kansas homestead on September 24, 1935. Motivated by the desire to provide their daughters a better education (and indoor plumbing), Rosa and Leslie moved their family into Goodland, Kansas, a small urban island surrounded by a sea of wheat and corn. Leslie (Arlene if you’re from Goodland) was a majorette, leading the marching band down brick-paved Main Street.

After graduating from Goodland High School, Leslie set o to see the wide world and made it as far as Denver. With a teaching degree under her belt, she began searching for an escape from the Midwest. Bill McClone conveniently appeared and fell hard for the Kansas beauty queen. After their marriage in 1958, another arrival threatened their westerly migration. But Scot, their first born, couldn’t keep the couple from their California dreaming for long. They were soon living in Long Beach, where they were joined by Mark, their second child. Moving two rambunctious boys around southern California convinced Leslie that enough was enough. But the couple’s third baby, Jill, had other plans, and in 1962 she showed us all who was and would be boss. A short stint outside of Reno rekindled the California dreams, and Bill and Leslie agreed that the west slope of the Sierra might be a nice place to settle. A new house in El Dorado Hills proved the right place to introduce the family to polite society and allowed Leslie an opportunity to earn her teaching credential.

With the e ort to teach her own kids some manners proving to be an unachievable goal, Leslie decided to teach other peoples’ children. She did so with love and patience, first as a substitute, then at Brooks Elementary School and subsequently Charles Brown School. Her former kindergarten students will remember someone who was a mother to all the children she encountered. Leslie and Bill co-founded McClone Construction Company, predicting accurately that their sons would need employment at some point. The company grew with the founders’ spirit to include hundreds of families throughout the country. After retirement, Leslie and Bill have explored the wide world, travelling to Europe and spending lots of time in Hawaii.

Leslie’s path to heaven was swept clean by her loving parents. On December 18, 2022, her first footfalls on that path were calm and peaceful, departing with the same grace with which she moved through life. Her sixty-six-year romance with Bill enduring still, she gazes proudly upon her three children Scot (Carolyn), Mark (Jamie), and Jill Hemington (Mark), six grandsons, and seven great grandchildren. Leslie’s spiritual beauty a lingering presence, she will be remembered for her laughter, her beautiful smile, and the love she showered on her husband Bill, her kids, grandkids, greatgrandkids, and indeed everyone she met. Leslie is also survived by her loving sister Joyce Dempewolf, three adoring nephews, and their children and grandchild.

The totality of Leslie’s life and the impact she had on those she loved could not possibly be contained in a paragraph, page, or even a book. She was so much more than words can express. Leslie’s life will be celebrated in a private family gathering, and in toasts and prayers for years to come.

Rebecca Hiles

Feb. 15, 1953 – March 19, 2023

Rebecca (Becky) Hiles passed away peacefully on March 19, 2023 in Placerville, CA. She was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA where she started her career with the L.A. County District Attorney’s O ce. It was there that she met the love of her life, Raymond Hiles. They later married and moved to South Lake Tahoe. The two enjoyed travel and loved spending time with family and friends.

Becky was the Deputy Director for El Dorado County Department of Child Support Services until her retirement. She mentored many of the sta and was always there to encourage and support her coworkers.

In 2020 Becky lost her beloved Raymond and recently experienced many health issues. She was a kind, generous person and many people were fortunate enough to share her friendship, love and generosity. She will be missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in Peace Becky, in the arms of your beloved Raymond.

Mary Kay Brancheau

1942 – 2022

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Friends are cordially invited to join our family as we celebrate the life of Mary Kay. Open house Saturday, April 15, 2023, 11:00 a.m.2:00 p.m., 602 Canal Street, Placerville. RSVP mkcelebrationoflife@gmail.com

Donald J. Swertferger

Jan. 4, 1946 – March 2, 2023

Donald J. Swertfeger went home to the Lord on March 2, after a well fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Donald was born on January 4, 1946, to Rose and Walter Swertfeger in Placerville, Calif., After graduating from El Dorado High School, he attended college while working various jobs. With a prodigious work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit, Donald went on to found Western Timber Specialties, logging and brokering timber for well over 40 years throughout all of Northern California. Meeting his match in his future wife Natividad P. Paz, they married in 1983 and welcomed twin children, Aidalicia and Don-Andrew.

Donald was a force of nature, to say the least. Driven to care for his family, he worked long, hard, and dangerous hours to provide for them. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he never missed an opportunity to share, especially with his wife who saw to his care during his fight with Parkinson’s. Donald was unendingly proud of his children and was always their biggest cheerleader and supporter until the very end. He was passionate about his faith in God and found tremendous comfort in reading from the Bible.

Donald is preceded in death by his mother, Rose, his father, Walter, and his sister, Betty Swertfeger. He is survived by his wife, Natividad P. Paz, their two children Aidalicia and Don-Andrew Swertfeger, daughter-in-law Naomi Swertfeger, and grandchildren, Eisley and Hudson.

In lieu of flowers and per his request, remembrances should be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Shriners Hospital for Children. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 15 at 12:30 p.m. at Chapel of the Pines in Placerville, Calif., with burial to follow at Westwood Hills Memorial Park.

Tina Marie Bills (Toland)

April 26, 1960 – March 20, 2023

Tina Marie Bills (Toland) died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on March 20. She was a beloved wife, daughter, mother, friend, and grandma.

She was preceded in death by her father, Larry Toland, and her two grandmothers, Alice Grace Toland and Jewel Bell Cowen. She is survived by her husband, Reggie Bills, her mother Carolyn Burton, her children Jamie and Jason Dustrud, her grandson Jaxon Dustrud, her puggles Daisy and Molly, and the grandkitty Flower.

She had a passion for travel, taking her and her family to hidden gems throughout the country. Wherever she went, stories would follow. Her heart and soul were firmly rooted in nature, with a special love for the ocean and the mountains. She had a great love for animals and bestowed this love freely and completely onto all the fur babies in her life.

As big as her heart was, she was still able to deftly balance her passions with the challenges of day-today life. She had the mind of a scholar even if she didn’t believe so. She worked on multiple missile projects as well as the Space Shuttle program during her years in Aerospace. She had an in-depth capability to visualize a project and see it through to its completion. She also had the ability to stretch a dollar in inconceivable ways to provide stability for her family.

Some knew her as a hippy, others as a biker gal, and even others as a concert fanatic and free-spirited dancer. We knew her as all those things, as well as a wife, daughter, mom, and/or grandma.

In lieu of having a service, we will hold a celebration of life with the immediate family. However, we hope that those who loved her will celebrate her life in whatever way you best feel represents your relationship with her.

She recently achieved a lifelong goal of being baptized.

She was a self-proclaimed flower child and wild angel and we know she now has a new frontier to explore in heaven.

LAKE LEVELS

storage 41,110 acre-feet Percent Full 100.2%

0.00 cfs/Outflow 18.9 cfs

River as of March 30 Flow 573.00 cfs

Slediquette

Continued from A1

— this means properly disposing of broken sleds in designated sled corrals or using dumpsters, sealed trash cans or simply taking trash home if other disposal options aren’t available. Each sled corral is a small, fenced-o area made for collecting broken pieces of sleds.

These corrals are located at Spooner Summit, Van Sickle Bi-State Park at Stateline, Fallen Leaf Lake Road and Ski Run Boulevard. Take Care Tahoe volunteers, including members of the League to Save Lake Tahoe’s Blue Crews, work throughout the winter to remove sleds and other trash from these areas.

Community members and visitors were invited to showcase their slediquette by taking part in a cleanup event at the Spooner Summit sled hill March 25. Collecting the trash from broken sleds in one, centralized place makes it easier to clean up but it doesn’t solve the problem of producing more trash in the first place. The most environmentally friendly option is to buy a more durable sled, ideally made out of wood or metal that will last for multiple seasons. Local Raley’s stores in Tahoe provide more durable options.

“Raley’s is proud to partner with Tahoe Fund and Take Care to reduce the trash that comes from plastic sleds. Keeping Tahoe clean and safe is our priority,” said Chelsea Minor, Raley’s executive director of community impact and public a airs. “In stores we expanded our o erings to include more durable, eco-friendly and long-lasting sleds. This is both better for the environment and a better investment for our customers,”

As another element of practicing good slediquette, recreators are encouraged to choose o cial sledding hills instead of pulling o the side of the road.

At o cial sledding hills vendors o er sled rentals, parking and restrooms and are required to keep their hills litter-free. At uno cial hills, the combination of unmanaged, o -highway parking and nearby tra c can put sledders in danger.

Sledding is one of the highlights of the winter season in Tahoe. It is an activity that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age, skill level or previous experience in the snow. For more information about practicing slediquette, where to rent or buy metal and wooden sleds and the locations of managed sledding hills around Lake Tahoe visit takecaretahoe.org/sleds.

Race to feature baby trees and uphill skis

Odin Rasco Staff writer

A one-of-a-kind ski race that aims to benefit multiple causes is set to take place April 8 at Sierra-at-Tahoe.

The race, called Ski 4 the Trees, will be raising funds for Operation Rebound, a nonprofit program that works to provide veterans and first responders with permanent physical injuries opportunities to participate in and empower themselves through sports.

Operation Rebound is part of the Challenged Athletes Foundation, and the funds raised by the race will go toward a USA team of veterans and challenged athletes training for the 2026 Winter Paralympics.

Operation Rebound will not be the sole benefactor, however, as the racers will be delivering precious cargo to Sierra-at-Tahoe as they traverse the uphill and backcountry

route. Seedlings grown by the Eldorado National Forest’s Placerville Nursery will be carried along by the racers to help aid in the reforestation efforts at Sierra at Tahoe, which was hit hard by the Caldor Fire in 2021. The seedlings will be planted at Sierra-at-Tahoe later this spring/summer when the

Operation Rebound athlete Barry McKowen and Ski 4 the Trees and adaptive ski instructor Jim Cahill take a break from cross-country skiing. Cahill is helping to organize a cross-country ski race to raise funds for Operation Rebound and to help reforest Sierra-at-Tahoe.

Courtesy photo

snow melts off.

“Never let a crisis go unused,” race organizer and Placerville resident Jim Cahill joked as he explained the plan. “We get to help Operation Rebound, we help the resort replant and all those trees can help with climate change. It’s a win for everyone.”

Cahill, 73, has worked as a ski patroller at Sierra-at-Tahoe and at Kirkwood he established a challenged athletes program.

Ski 4 the Trees isn’t the first competition the Air Force veteran has put on, Cahill for years has organized races to support the Challenged Athletes Foundation and its program Operation Rebound.

The race was originally set to mirror the Echo to Kirkwood route, an 11-mile trek from Kirkwood ski resort to Sierraat-Tahoe, but had to be adjusted out of an abundance of concern for safety. The record-breaking snowfall in the Tahoe area has kept the route from being finalized as of press time, but Cahill has said the race may take place within the bounds of Sierra-at-Tahoe to ensure safe conditions.

The groundswell of support for the upcoming fundraiser has come as a happy surprise to Cahill.

“It’s been amazing to see this

little idea we pitched (Sierraat-Tahoe General Manager) John Rice snowball with all the support we’ve gotten,” Cahill said. “Being able to help, even just by helping them recover the trees they lost in the fire, is huge.”

The fundraiser has gained a number of partners/ sponsors, including the El Dorado Resource Conservation District, which recently helped secure around $23 million in aid to help rebuild and reforest areas impacted by the Caldor Fire, according to EDRCD District Manager Mark Egbert. Other partners include the Sugar Pine Foundation, Sierra Ski and Cycle Works and VSP Vision Care, which donated 100 pairs of ski goggles for participants.

The race is set to begin at 8:30 a.m. April 8. Individuals interested in participating or donating can find more information at k2sierra4trees. org.

The increased visitation impacted regular visitors as well as residents of the area who traverse Highway 49 as part of their daily commute.

Trip data, collected using the Replica Data software platform, determined that travelers along the highway made trips with an average distance of 58 miles, with longer trips during peak summer months. The data suggested most travelers through the confluence area were likely not local residents and average vehicle occupancy was 1.6 people per vehicle. The Replica Data software platform collected information using cell phone location data from within the study corridor.

Key pain points and potential solutions were identified through data collection, public workshops and surveys over the past two years.

Completed in February, the EDCTC’s final report is a set of suggestions and prioritized timelines; actual projects will require one or more of the agencies in the area to schedule, budget and plan them. Any such projects would be expected to go through a development process of possibly three to 10 years, meaning significant changes are not to be expected overnight.

Near-term projects

Tackling the truck problem

Coming as no surprise to those who frequent the confluence, oversized trucks traveling the corridor between Cool and Auburn are a cause of consternation. The highway in the area is only designated for use by trucks with a kingpin to rear axle length from 30 to 38 feet; data collected shows around 30% of trucks that traverse the corridor exceed those limits. This can — and has — lead to traffic backing up when a driver gets caught on one of the road’s many tight turns.

Trucking as a business prioritizes short routes and quick delivery; if a route calls for going from Placerville to Auburn or vice versa, it would involve switching from Highway 50 to Interstate 80 in Sacramento. Rather than take that long detour, truckers might opt for the shorter route along Highway 49 either because their navigation software suggests it and they

are unaware of truck size limits, or they know the limits but choose to take their chances. The delivery vehicles for Dollar General in Cool have run into repeat issues ignoring the limits in the past, leading company leadership to set strict route instructions for drivers.

The EDCTC recommends two approaches to the issue of oversized truck travel. The first suggestion is installation of signage at key locations indicating oversized trucks are not allowed; the second suggestion is a call for increased enforcement by California Highway Patrol officers paired with advocating that federal truck route designations be changed to not allow oversized trucks access to the Highway 49 corridor.

To avoid issues stemming from trucks that will need to turn around to avoid going down the corridor, the EDCTC has raised the possibility of installing a roundabout in Cool at the intersection of Highways 49 and 193.

Evacuation preparation

Though the study was not designed to analyze evacuation situations, residents shared concerns at study workshops and in surveys. Evacuation preparedness is not within the explicit scope of the study but many of the suggestions are expected to be useful in hazard scenarios. Such suggestions include removing vegetation along the highway and parking lots on local roadways, placing permanent “no parking” signs at pullouts along the highway where overflow parking frequently occurs and installation of intelligent signage capable of informing visitors of parking availability or evacuation information in case of an emergency.

Transit shuttle test run

A potential relief to parking woes could take the form of a shuttle service through the confluence area between Auburn and Cool. The EDCTC study concluded that a bus service could be fully subsidized for all 97 days of the summer season or all 104 weekend days of the year through collection of 50% of parking revenues during the summer season. A fare could additionally fund the service, with a potential lower ridership as opposed to a free shuttle. A

Bly-Chester Continued from A1

Confluence Continued from A1 2021, Planning Commission meeting when the commission was considering commercial cannabis retail in Meyers. Bly-Chester maintains the commission repeatedly violated the Brown Act, which became the basis for the Board of Supervisors’ removal of the commissioner. Bly-Chester claims she was accused by County Counsel of intending to disclose confidential information and was told she would be voted off the Planning Commission if she did not resign.

During the Aug. 31, 2021, Board of Supervisors meeting, some from the board and County Counsel described her repeated Brown Act accusations as abusive, condescending and subjugating the county to potential litigation.

Part of Bly-Chester’s claim argues the statements made against her violated California whistleblower laws and were not privileged, and that retaliatory statements were made about her before and after the hearing were not protected speech.

The Board of Supervisors, represented by attorney Carolee Kilduff, claims since the statements made about Bly-Chester during the hearing were protected and the hearing itself was not criminal. The defendants are looking to implement an Anti-SLAPP statute for the plaintiff’s case.

Anti-SLAPP laws exist to protect people and organizations from baseless defamation cases. Bly-Chester had the chance to appeal

to Department 9 of the El Dorado County Superior Court to disregard the Anti-SLAPP statute, which was heard by Superior Court Judge Gary Slossberg.

A decision will be made May 5 if the statute will be implemented or not.

Regardless, Bly-Chester claims the county has held up a secondary dwelling unit permit for her property even after the project was approved as a form of retaliation against her. Her basis for the claim includes that planning and building staff who were present at the April 2021 Planning Commission meeting are the reason her permit was held up. She also claims staff have been instructed to not speak to Bly-Chester on the matter.

As another form of retaliation, BlyChester also claims the county refused engineering reports from her on one of her clients projects as a Rosewood Environmental Engineering principal engineer from March 18, 2022 to May 4, 2022. The county claims she was not a qualified professional to perform the work.

Officials from the county declined to comment on the basis that the case is ongoing litigation, according to county spokeswoman Carla Hass.

“I risk my reputation, my building permit and my livelihood in this county fighting to restore all our right to a transparent local government that follows due process,” Bly-Chester told the Mountain Democrat.

short-term pilot shuttle program could aid in establishing ridership levels and demand prior to finalizing a long-term shuttle plan.

A shuttle from Auburn to the confluence that charges a nominal fee was established in 2021, and could potentially be augmented for the pilot study.

Medium-term projects

Parking facilities

California State Parks’ Auburn State Recreation Area Gold Fields District developed an internal paper in 2019 exploring options with Caltrans and the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation regarding potential traffic safety solutions. The conclusion of the paper identified formalizing existing parking areas with painted stripes as a preferable solution to cars overcrowding the edges of the highway.

The EDCTC study came to the same conclusion, determining that formalizing and paving undeveloped parking lots near the confluence would ease congestion. Fees could be implemented, with price structure consistent with the one used by State Parks. An area could be set aside

specifically for emergency vehicles.

‘Active transportation’ safety

As people often cross the road from their parking spots to trails or the river, it creates a persistent safety issue. Installation of pedestrian crossings, ADA improvements and flashing beacons could aid in minimizing the chance for accidents, according to the report.

Highway alterations

For ease of use and safety, improved road striping alignment to correct shoulder width and installation of rumble strips at hairpin turns along the corridor have been identified as potential projects.

The study also raised the possibility of coordinating with Caltrans and reducing speed limits.

Long-term projects

Pedestrian safety

In pursuit of further improvements for pedestrian safety, EDCTC indicated a pedestrian bridge along the highway could be a worthwhile project. Changes to existing intersections were also proposed, if warranted by traffic volume.

For Proposition 13’s sake, keep elected Board of Equalization

Here’s a question for homeowners: If there is an issue regarding how Proposition 13 should be interpreted or implemented, would you rather have it resolved by unelected political appointees — who have an inherent conflict in their desire to raise revenue — or a board directly elected by, and accountable to, the voters?

Seems like an easy choice to us.

For the second time in recent years, there is a push by anti-taxpayer politicians to abolish the California Board of Equalization. Assembly Constitutional Amendment 11 would transfer the BOE’s responsibilities to a newly created agency or agencies.

When Proposition 13 was overwhelmingly approved by the voters in 1978, the BOE was instrumental in interpreting its constitutional and statutory provisions as well as in developing programs and guidance to administer Proposition 13.

During this period the board continued its role as an unbiased arbiter of property tax issues so important to both business property owners and homeowners. Very few of its adopted policies and regulations have been challenged or overturned, largely because of the board’s status as a respected independent elected body.

... since when did the California Legislature show an inkling of concern about waste?

Working with county assessors, the BOE administers property tax statutes and regulations for all taxable real estate, consisting of both state-assessed property, such as railroads and utilities, as well as all locally assessed properties including homes. The board also oversees how counties conduct assessment appeals and periodically surveys their assessment practices.

The elected BOE also develops the Assessors’ Handbook, an exhaustive explanation of property tax law for county assessors, their staff and other interested parties. All the resources of the BOE are available online and provide valuable guidance not just to assessors, but to property owners and taxpayer organizations.

The BOE was especially helpful to Californians who were victimized by Proposition 19, which

n See COupal page A5

The Balancing Act

Letters to the Editor

Shame

EDITOR:

March 19, 2023, is a date that will live in infamy in the annals of El Dorado County. On this day the Board of Supervisors abolished the Human Rights Commission. If the supes think that EDC does not harbor deep-seated animosities toward minorities, they live on a different planet. I have seen countless confederate/traitor flags flying from vehicles and houses; on Main Street I witnessed the driver of a pick-up shout at a Black family walking on the sidewalk, “Go home, n**.” In a supermarket parking lot I was asked, “How can you support that n**?” for displaying an “ObamaBiden” poster on my car.

Then, there’s this: From 1997 to 2000, we leased our house to a member of the Oakland Raiders. A Black man of imposing size, he came to our house sporadically, mostly to train and jog through our quiet HOA streets.

One morning, alerted about a “homeless man looking at our houses,” two sheriff’s deputies stopped him. Our tenant did not carry ID on his jogs, but convinced the deputies to take him to the house. Far from looking homeless, this man wore very expensive jogging clothes and shoes. His real offense was being Black.

Inside the house the cops saw dozens of MVP and All-Pro trophies and other football memorabilia inscribed “Albert Lewis,” then the Raiders’ premier cornerback. The deputies realized they’d been lured into a racially motivated trap; they apologized, asked for autographs and left. Unfortunately, the “neighborly” racist tipster remains anonymous.

JOHN GARON Placerville

Bad news

EDITOR:

For the few who don’t know, Dominion Voting Systems is suing Fox News for $1.6 billion in a defamation lawsuit as part of Fox News’s involvement in the big lie. Because of the lawsuit, Dominion has acquired a trove of documentation that shows Fox News maliciously and intentionally lied about Dominion and the election results. The documents also show the depth and degree of its

hypocrisy and duplicity. Due to the state of politics, it is hard for most of us to be shocked but Fox seems to have done just that.

The documents clearly show the executives at Fox News knew Trump had lost the election but continued to tell viewers the election was fraudulent and Trump had won. They blamed much of the fraud on the Dominion voting machines, claiming any manner of crazy conspiracy theories. There is also now proof Fox News and the Republican Party were in communication and work in close association. Finally, despite what they profess on TV, it is also quite clear from the documents many at the upper echelons at Fox News, including Tucker Carlson, have a disdain for Trump and disapproved of his presidency, and were hoping that he would fade into the background.

While I suspect many on the right believe I write this letter gleefully, it could not be farther from the truth. While I am glad Dominion has stood up to Fox News and will receive some kind of compensation, it is tragic, appalling and very frightening the state of journalism in our country has eroded to such a degree. In a functioning democracy, the media should serve as an independent conveyor of unbiased information and facts. It is then up to the individual to base his or her decisions on the information given. Fox News, on the other hand, tells viewers what the organization believes they should hear and most often that has nothing to do with the truth. In reality, Fox News is a money-making propaganda machine for the far right.

While it is clear the main objective of Fox News is to make money, I suspect in some perverse way, executives and staff believe what they are doing is in the best interest of viewers and the conservative movement. The opposite is true. Fox has done a great disservice to viewers, feeding them so many lies and so much craziness they are now incapable of distinguishing fact from fiction and incapable of making any rational decisions because they have no idea what the truth is. This has allowed the extreme right to infiltrate the Republican Party, leaving the party dysfunctional and in chaos. The damage Fox News has done to its viewers, the Republican Party, the country and our democracy cannot be overstated.

SCOTT TAYLOR Placerville

The United States is quickly running out of energy

There are 275 million to 290 million motor vehicles in the U.S. California is home to about 31.5 million. Of that 31.5 million, just 838,000 are EVs. Of that nearly 300,000,000 vehicles there are about 105 million cars, 159 million SUVS, light trucks and vans, four million big rigs and about eight million motorcycles. And California is banning the sale of new gasoline cars by 2035.

By 2030 California estimates there will be eight million EVs and 12.5 million by 2035. Right now there are about 80,000 public chargers and 17,000 on the way, but nowhere near the 1.2 million that California officials say we will need by 2030. And what kind of charges will they be — Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3? From a Level 1 (110V) you’ll get 3-5 miles from an hour of charge. Level 2 (220V) will get you 20-25 miles depending on the amperage and a Level 3 can get

you about 180 miles or even a full charge in 30 minutes depending on the DC voltage. With the Level 2 system you can get a decent balance of added energy to fully charge an 80kWh battery in about 10 hours. It will happen while you are sleeping. The cost of a Level 2 will depend on the capacity of your electrical panel and house wiring. Most people are finding that it’s a few thousand dollars.

California recently banned charging EVs during the afternoon and evening. It doesn’t have the grid capacity. How do you think it’s going to be by 2030 with eight million EVs? And what about the rest of the country with perhaps another eight to 10 million? When you have two million EVs plugged into Level 2 or 3, you are talking about an enormous amount of energy. So how much energy can we produce or, more important, how much capacity is in the grid?

Where are you going to build a new dam, if you could? (Can you say Auburn?) you would have to septuple renewables to make up the difference from fossil, even higher if nuke is banned.

The capacity of our electrical grid is 1.2 billion kW. Energy production is about 4.1 billion kWh and 60% comes from natural gas and coal. With the green movement, especially in California, how are we going to make up the difference? The cleanest and best form of energy, nuclear power, is in disfavor and Diablo Canyon is scheduled for shut down in about seven years. Nuke makes up another 20% of our energy production. Renewables account for 19.8%, with wind at 9%, hydro at 6% and solar at 2.8%. So renewables are really 14 %. Where are you going to build a new dam, if you could? (Can you say Auburn?) You would have to septuple renewables to make up the difference from fossil, even higher if nuke is banned.

So how much energy does an EV draw when charging? Level 3 will put

out 100-200 kW, Level 2 is about 10 kW. According to California we are going to have eight million EVs and by 2035, 12.5 million. If just 10% or about a million EVs are on the grid, what’s the total kW? Let’s be generous and say the average EV battery is 80 kWh. Many light truck batteries are 130-plus kWh. If that 10% were plugged into a 100 kW, Level 3, it would be a continuous draw on the grid of 80 million kW or a little better than 6% of total grid capacity. Yeah, they won’t all charge at once; maybe the state will issue time slots. Nothing like command and control. What about in 20 years? There might be 100,000,000 EVs. The draw on the grid could reach 67% of total grid capacity. That would be untenable. And if you think energy is expensive

n See Weitzman page A5

LArry WEiTzmAn

The final failed argument by those seeking to abolish the BoE is that it would save money. oh, please

Coupal Continued from A4 substantially weakened the ability of homeowners to transfer their home and a limited amount of other property to their children without triggering reassessment. While the BOE had no power to change Prop. 19, board members worked very hard to ameliorate the impact to families who had just su ered the death of a loved one.

Homeowners are justified in their concerns that the abolition of the BOE and the transfer of its responsibilities to other bureaucracies will eliminate accountability and convert what is now a relatively responsive body to some uncaring agency as oppressive as the IRS. For homeowners, this is unacceptable. Homeownership is an important right and property taxes are perhaps the most sensitive (and costly) point of contact between citizens and their government.

Those attacking the BOE claim it is mismanaged. But this argument is a pretext as those accusations are based on an investigation nearly a decade old against former BOE members. None of the current members have been accused of such malfeasance.

Proponents of ACA 11 contend that the duties of the BOE could be performed by political appointees and bureaucrats rather than elected o cials. But government tax agencies have a sorry history of being abusive and, in some cases, even vindictive to taxpayers. (For example, look at what the IRS

did in targeting some political organizations for audits. Also, California’s former Franchise Tax Board was found guilty of violating the civil rights of Californians who attempt to establish residency in other states).

The final failed argument by those seeking to abolish the BOE is that it would save money.

Oh, please ... since when did the California Legislature show an inkling of concern about waste?

The cost of running BOE, about $35 million, is a pittance compared to the waste demonstrated by the state’s political leadership in recent years — high-speed rail, anyone?

Moreover, since most of the functions of BOE would be transferred to other agencies, the alleged cost “savings” would be a fraction of the $35 million.

Taxpayer advocacy organizations, including the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, CalTax and the California Alliance of Taxpayer Advocates are opposed to ACA 11.

We’re united in our belief that the elected Board of Equalization gives taxpayers accountability, responsiveness and transparency. It is greatly needed and must be preserved.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

Weitzman Continued from A4 now, wait until there are millions of EVs increasing demand. With 100 million EVs you’ll need a second mortgage to pay your electric bill.

China is building two new coal-fired power plants a week. What are we doing? Solar farms that in total don’t produce even 3% of our energy. Twelve hours a day they are dormant. Some marine biologists think the noise from windmills o the New England coast, and they are noisy, are responsible for 11 or 12 very recent humpback whale deaths.

This isn’t about the environment; it’s about political power and control. There is no way they have the grid capacity for 260 million EVs and they know it. This is about reducing our freedom of travel and where we live. Just look at China; very few people have individual homes. They live in cramped apartments that are stacked 30-40 stories high. Democrats are doing everything to attack your freedom and the forcing of EVs is part of it. But it’s really a red herring. Because of the cost of EVs, it’s more about taking away your freedom of personal transportation. Democratic (leftists) politicos will, of course, have their SUVs and homes in the country.

Larry Weitzman is a resident of Placerville.

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) 417-7138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net

El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

LEARN & PLAY CRIBBAGE

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 fourpart harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575

ROCKOW

33 Texter’s “I think …”

34 Takes to the impound lot

35 Scavenger ___

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 916-768-4452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at the Moni Gilmore Sr Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

Ready for real change?

CELEBRATE RECOVERY meets Wednesday nights at 6:30 pm at Bayside Church of Placerville, 4602 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. We are a Christ centered recovery program to find healing and recovery from our hurts, habits, and hangups. Email elebratercovery@ baysideplacerville. com. Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/ CRBaysidePlacerville.

Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based

Hangtown Women’s TENNIS Club. Join fun-loving women Wednesdays 9am-11am at El Dorado High School. Lessons, social events, only $50/year. Call Cindy 805-540-8654.

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)6216304 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 except the first Monday of each month. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a nonpartisan organization

Savor Spring Flavor with Fresh Seafood Recipes

Family Features

Fresh, flavorful ingredients take springtime meals to another level, and it’s hard to top seafood as a seasonal favorite. Skip the wait at restaurants and instead create your own savory seafood dishes by taking advantage of easy-to-make recipes.

While takeout may be an easy option, the satisfaction of enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal like Shrimp Pad Thai with Jasmine Rice can make you feel like you’re enjoying a restaurant-quality dinner. Next time you’re craving Asian cuisine, swap out traditional rice noodles for this version with Jasmine rice as an aromatic, quick-cooking solution for your own spin on a classic.

Take the guesswork out of cooking rice with an option like Success BoilIn-Bag Rice, which offers a heat safe, BPA-free and FDA-approved solution for fluffy, flavorful rice that cooks up perfectly. The high-quality grains are quick, easy, mess-free and ready in 10 minutes, so you can enjoy hassle-free dishes such as Successful Crab and Rice Cakes.

These crispy crab cakes come together easily and are served with a zesty, homemade aioli that tastes just like you’re on the coast. If you’re new to making crab cakes, it’s simpler than it may seem – just cook rice beforehand so it can cool then mix in beaten eggs, seafood and seasonings. Refrigerating and resting the mixture helps it hold together before frying to a mouthwatering golden brown for a delicious appetizer, snack or side dish. Visit SuccessRice.com to find more springtime meal ideas.

Shrimp Pad Thai with Jasmine Rice

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

1 bag Success Jasmine Rice

3 tablespoons light brown sugar

2 tablespoons fish sauce

2 tablespoons lime juice

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce

2 tablespoons canola oil, divided

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tablespoon minced garlic

3 green onions, thinly sliced

1 cup bean sprouts

1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

2 tablespoons dry roasted peanuts, chopped 4 lime wedges Prepare rice according to package directions. Set aside.

In small bowl, combine brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, soy sauce and chili garlic sauce. Set aside.

In large wok or skillet over high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon oil. Quickly scramble egg. Remove from pan and reserve. Add remaining oil to wok over high heat. Add shrimp and garlic; stir-fry 5 minutes, or until shrimp are cooked. Add reserved sauce and rice; stir-fry 2 minutes. Add green onions and reserved egg; toss to combine. Divide pad Thai between four bowls. Top each with bean sprouts, cilantro and peanuts. Serve with lime wedges.

Successful Crab and Rice Cakes

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Crab Cakes:

1 bag Success Brown Rice

2 eggs

1 pound lump crabmeat

2 tablespoons seafood seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

Eat the Rainbow

FAMILY FEATURES

Focusing your menus on health-conscious recipes that look as good as they make you feel is key to making positive lifestyle changes. Adding big flavors that satisfy cravings to easy, go-to recipes can be a big step toward reaching health goals throughout the year.

“Eating the rainbow” refers to adding fruits and veggies of varying colors to your diet, such as red tomatoes and beets, green cucumbers and avocados, orange carrots and pumpkins and beyond.

Complementing fresh produce with the nutritional benefits of tuna and salmon – like heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin D and potassium – can take your meal planning one step further.

Whether you’re commemorating a special occasion, hosting a gathering of friends and family or simply enjoying a night in, good food shouldn’t mean ditching good eating habits. With new packaging but a continued focus on flavor, wild-caught Low-Sodium Pink Salmon from Chicken of the Sea is a perfect complement to vibrant, rainbow-inspired recipes.

Try these Salmon Chili Bites for a quick and delicious snack option. They can easily be doubled, tripled or more for a party appetizer. Feature the recipe with a “rainbow” of veggies, crackers, meats and cheeses on a charcuterie board for a crowd favorite that can satisfy guests with big, bold flavor.

Ditch boring salads and find joy in food while maintaining healthy eating goals by upping your salad game. Say goodbye to bland, boring greens and enjoy salads with your favorite toppings, like a colorful combination of protein-packed tuna and fiber-rich veggies in this Mediterranean Tuna Salad, which is completed with a bright dressing and topped with feta cheese and parsley.

For more than 100 years, Chicken of the Sea has provided fresh, tasty seafood straight from the ocean, so whether you’re reaching for wild-caught tuna for this homemade salad or another option like salmon or sardines, you can enjoy a high-quality product that’s delicious on its own or used to elevate favorite recipes.

To find more health-focused snacks, appetizers, meals and more, visit chickenofthesea.com.

Aioli:

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 lemon, zest and juice only lemon wedges (optional)

To make crab cakes: Prepare rice according to package directions. Allow to cool.

In medium bowl, beat eggs lightly. Stir in rice, crabmeat and seafood seasoning; mix well. Refrigerate 5 minutes. Shape mixture into eight patties.

In large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Working in batches, carefully place patties in skillet. Cook 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer to paper towel-lined plate.

To make aioli: Stir together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon zest and lemon juice. Serve aioli with crab cakes and garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.

Pair seafood and seasonal produce for colorful, healthy recipes

Shrimp Pad Thai with Jasmine Rice

Successful Crab and Rice Cakes

In the KNOW

April 4

Powell’s Steamer Company and Pub, 425 Main St., presents Eric Hill and Jonny Mojo for Taco Tuesday on the first and third Tuesdays of the month from 4-7 p.m. Stop by for some good food and good tunes. For more information call (530) 6261091.

April 5

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce hosts a Business Builder Blender lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hills Church in El Dorado Hills. To make a reservation call (916) 933-1335 or visit eldoradohillschamber.org.

April 6

The Shingle SpringsCameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a mixer and ribbon cutting, 5:30 p.m. at Geneva Financial, 3300 Coach Lane, Suite E6, Cameron Park. No RSVP required.

See The Full Monty Comedy Night hosted by John Morris Ross IV, 7-9 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit tickets.clubgreenroom. com.

The MACC in Rancho Cordova presents the fourth annual Student Art Show, April 6-22. Admission is free. For more information visit rcmacc. org.

April 7

Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open again every Friday and Saturday for open garden days, 9 a.m. to noon. Take a leisurely stroll through all 16 themed gardens.

Docents are on-site to assist with any questions regarding Sherwood Demonstration Garden or your personal garden. May be closed for inclement weather or poor air quality. Check the website before visiting: ucanr.edu/sites/ EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden.

Live music at Red Hawk Resort + Casino continues with live music at the Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. See Thunder Cover (classic hits) April 7; Popular Demand (dance)

April 8; Violin on Fire (Latin/rock) April 14; Fast Times (dance) April 15; Flat Busted (dance) April 21; Sons of Rock (rock/ classic rock) April 22; Mike Furlong Band (classic rock) April 28; and Maxx Cabello (blues/rock) April 29. Visit redhawkcasino.com for more details.

Grateful Bluegrass Boys performs 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit tickets. clubgreenroom.com.

April 8

Cars and Coffee invites car people to meet up and hang out the first and second Saturday mornings of each month, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center.

Everyone and every type of vehicle is welcome.

The motto is”If it rolls, it goes.” Check out the cars and enjoy free coffee and doughnuts, while they last.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts the free Community Easter Egg Hunt for youth ages 0-12, 9 a.m. at Promontory Park.

Fill a basket and get a

— Student Beau

Written words come to life

Dina Gentry EDC Office of Education

More than 200 students represented almost 20 schools at the 43rd annual Festival of Oral Interpretation, recently hosted by Pioneer Union School District. Small groups of children hurried to classrooms across campus to deliver interpretive performances of poetry and prose.

“It’s incredible to have this festival in person again,” said Patrick Paturel, PUSD superintendent. “Today we are celebrating students from across the county as they perform in front of dozens of individuals. A special thank you to the PUSD team, our judges and volunteers for making this possible.”

Students chose famous works of literature and some composed original pieces. After every

performance, a volunteer evaluator, members of the audience and student peers gave the orators complimentary and suggestive advice.

Beau Gallant, a fourth-grade student who attends Pinewood Elementary School in Pollock Pines commented after performing, “Before performing, I was excited and nervous. I practiced a lot and that gave me confidence. I learned much about poetry and I will do this again next year.”

Razi Lockhart, a fourth-grade student from Gold Oak Elementary School, noted, “I chose to participate because I actually really enjoy public speaking. I learned a lot about poetry and how it can be about something real or make-believe.”

El Dorado County Board of Education

Trustee Amy Sellers volunteered as a judge.

“Today was a great

experience for the students to stretch themselves,” she said after the event. “Two students even performed original pieces. It was a privilege to be part of it.” Several El Dorado County Office of

Education team members also volunteered. Deputy Superintendent of Administrative Services Wendy Frederickson was among them and noted, “I have participated in this event for years and it is always a nice

connection to our purpose as educators — our students. EDCOE is proud to support this showcase of individual expression.”

For more information regarding Pioneer Union School District visit the website at pioneer.k12.ca.us.

Superintendent to receive special honor

Serena Fuson El Dorado Union High School District

El Dorado Union High School District Superintendent Dr. Ron Carruth will be receive the 2023 Ferd J. Kiesel Memorial Distinguished Service Award at the Association of California School Administrators Leadership Summit in Sacramento Nov. 3.

The Ferd J. Kiesel Memorial Distinguished Service Award is the highest honor ACSA can present to an individual. The award is made in the memory of Kiesel, ACSA’s founding president.

Carruth has had a significant impact in shaping educational policy over the years through ACSA and other affiliated groups. He currently serves as the president of ACSA California Superintendent’s Council. This unique presidency gives him the opportunity to work with ACSA staff to identify and shape state policy and respond to multiple pieces of legislation. He has worked closely with the ACSA Governmental Relations Team to speak with key legislators, influential legislative personnel, the governor’s staff and other key education coalition members. He was a prominent voice for safely opening our schools for students during the COVID-19 era. Carruth serves as the president of the California

High School Coalition with membership of more than 50 districts committed to provide a voice for the needs of high school students. This group has identified key areas such as mental health

funding, dual enrollment access and understanding the complexities of high schools as urgent issues that need to be addressed.

Previously he served as the president of California

City Superintendents coordinating key legislative, legal and economic speakers to help guide the early stage of the implementation of the LCFF. He is a member of the Southern California and Northern California Superintendent groups.

Nationally, Carruth has been an active member of the American Association of School Administrators for 15 years. He has lobbied Congress in conjunction with ACSA, CSBA, AASA and the National Association of Superintendents multiple times on educationally related issues, particularly the implications of IDEA.

Finally, Carruth has had the opportunity to sit on the ACS-WASC Commission for six years, overseeing the accreditation of all high schools in California and Hawaii as well as the majority of independent schools in Asia while serving as ACSA liaison with the commission. His work beyond California has impacted Hawaii, Japan, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong SAR, Vietnam and Thailand where he has helped lead teams to improve the educational outcome of students. His influence and contributions have been felt well beyond the local region. Ron and his wife Laurie reside in Placerville and are both products of the local school systems. They are proud El Dorado High School graduates.

Courtesy photos

Gold Oak fourth-grader Razi Lockhart, above left, said she really enjoyed participating in this year’s Festival of Oral Interpretation. Above right, Pinewood fourthgrader Beau Gallant said the festival gave him confidence in his public speaking abilities.

EDCOE Director of Program & District Support Melissa Kistler and EDCOE Deputy Superintendent of Administrative Services Wendy Frederickson volunteered at the Festival of Oral Interpretation.

Courtesy photo

EDUHSD Superintendent Ron Carruth has served on many professional organizations that promote positive learning and school environments. His efforts have earned many accolades.

“I learned much about poetry and I will do this again next year.”

Gallant

n TODAy

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ve already thought enough about the problem, and now your mind is going in circles about it. Interrupt this spiral to nowhere by reconnecting with your body. The breakthrough will be physical.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). The fear of success is not a fear of getting your desire but a fear of the pressures that will come along with it. How will you sustain your status? Will others be envious? Address those questions and lose your fear.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The world won’t exactly sync to your timing, but take a breath, lean back and try to feel how the beat is landing, and you’ll soon click right into it. Today, it will be easier to follow a rhythm than to set one.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Approval is a weird thing. Sometimes it’s given when you don’t need it, and other times you feel you desperately need it and it doesn’t come. Don’t read too much into that. People approve or don’t for their own reasons.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You won’t have to address, forgive or avenge the bad behavior of others. All you need to do is ignore it. Leave it alone and let it resolve itself. What you neglect will eventually diminish and disappear.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Take everything a little slower than you need to. Pause to get the response. Listening well requires you to leave plenty of space before and after what you say, not only to avoid interruption but to allow thorough processing.

Lifesaving AEDs given to Lake Tahoe schools

Tahoe Daily Tribune

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — The Barton Health Foundation, as part of its Heart Safe Community program, recently donated eight automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to aid in the response of heart issues to the Lake Tahoe Unified School District. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 2,000 young, seemingly healthy people younger than 25 in the United States die each year of sudden cardiac arrest.

“We are excited to receive eight AEDs from the Barton Health Foundation. Our plan is to place them in locations that students, staff, and visitors to our sites have access to and can utilize the lifesaving device should the need arise,” said Pat Harnett, LTUSD coordinator. “We are grateful to the Barton Health Foundation for this assistance.”

The highly-visible, bright green Zoll AED units will be installed at various locations at South Lake Tahoe

High School, South Tahoe Middle School and Mt. Tallac High School. Strategically placed AEDs help ensure a rapid response to cardiac arrest. An AED is a sophisticated, yet easy-to-use medical device that can analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use of an AED can double or even triple survival rates.

“An AED does not require a medical professional, making it an accessible, important tool for teachers, parents and staff to have on hand in the event of an emergency,” said Chris Kiser, executive director of the Barton Health Foundation. “We are grateful to many generous donors who have contributed to this cause.”

Earlier this year, the Barton Health Foundation donated 32 automated AEDs to aid in the response to heart issues at Barton Health facilities.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You leave the comfort of knowing things. The things you want to know include where to land, who to talk to, how to behave, what to do... and all is revealed in the thing right before you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). It’s only after the struggle, the sacrifice, the early mornings and late nights, and the investment of time, money and energy that you’ll see results. Any result coming before you put the work in can’t be trusted.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Let go of pride or the need to put on a front. The truth of the matter is, you’ve lost something. Everyone you know has also lost something. Hearts will communicate quietly through this shared sense of loss.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Fear can be a sign that you should run away, but more likely, it’s a sign that you should run toward. The opportunity for personal growth is abundant when you go toward what you’re afraid of.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Your experience of events will be different from another person’s, and both are valid. It could also be argued that it’s not how things really are. In the mirrored world of the mind, there are many illusions.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Every solution creates new problems, so don’t be in too much of a rush to fix things. Pace yourself and take pictures. There’s something about this scene you’ll miss one day.

Courtesy

Ruby Turner, Melanie Turner, Julee Delacour and Marsha Ticas of the Barton Health Foundation pose with Pat Harnett, LTUSD coordinator, center, with an AED donated to LTUSD by the Barton Health Foundation.

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis

SASSY AND BRASSY

Alias Brass Company made a special appearance at Buckeye School during its visit to El Dorado County. The students enthusiastically welcomed the performers as they played baroque, classical, jazz and pop. The five talented musicians were in the county for the El Dorado County Community Concert Association’s fifth concert this season. To learn more about the association and the next concert call (530) 556-9498 and/or visit ElDoradoCommunityConcerts.com.

Photo by Carol Nordquist

The Public Square

El Dorado Irrigation District is seeking:

Limited Term Utility Worker- Drinking Water

Salary: $25.10 per hour

FFD: Open until filled.

First review of applications on March 27, 2023.

The Human Resources Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Limited Term Utility Worker for an eligibility list to fill current and future positions in the Drinking Water Division of Operations. These are limited term positions; incumbents are temporary employees and are employed for a period not-to-exceed eighteen months from date of appointment.

For a complete job description and the REQUIRED application, please visit our website at www.eid.org or call 530-642-4074.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

2890 Mosquito Road Placerville, CA 95667 Fax: (530) 622-1134

Cafeteria Assistant

If you enjoy the beautiful outdoors and working with children, we currently have an amazing opportunity as a Cafeteria Assistant at our Sly Park Conservation and Environmental Education Center near Pollock Pines.

Starting Hourly Rate: $17.23

Click here to apply today: http://www.edjo.in/1746010

Maintenance Custodian

If you have experience performing custodial and general maintenance services and enjoy the beautiful outdoors, we currently have an amazing opportunity as a Maintenance Custodian at our Sly Park Conservation and Environmental Education Center near Pollock Pines.

Starting Hourly Rate: $20.47

Click here to apply today: http://www.edjo.in/1745652

■ SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

Solution to Puzzle 1

Solution to Puzzle 2

OFF DUTY

Robert Fullerton has retired after 21 years in the United States Coast Guard. Born in Placerville, he attended El Dorado County schools, graduating from El Dorado High School in 1997 and also earning his Eagle Scout award. In the Coast Guard Fullerton achieved the rank of chief. His parents Ron and Judy Fullerton reside in Placerville. His wife Megan Marie Montgomery Fullerton is also from Placerville and is currently teaching science to seventh- and eighth-graders at Schoenbar Middle School. Robert and Megan and their two sons, Rennan and Chase, will continue to reside in Ketchikan, Ala. While deployed he visited several other countries and received many awards and accomplishments. His retirement ceremony was in February. His family is extremely proud of his commitment to the military for 21 years.

Know Continued from B1 photo with the Easter Bunny. The Placerville Kiwanis host the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Lions Park in Placerville. The fun begins at 9:30 a.m. (ages 3-5). Hunts also take place at 10 a.m. (ages 6-8) and 10:30 a.m. (ages 9-10). Enjoy games and free hot dogs and snacks. Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma hosts Living History Day, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Explore what life would have been like in Coloma during 1850. Docents will have demonstrations set up to show the park visitors different hands-on demonstrations and crafts that people did during the California Gold Rush.

Toogood Estate hosts Burgers & Barbera, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 8 & 9 and April 15 & 16 at the Fair Play winery. For more information visit toogoodwinery.com/calendar.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts the Aqua Egg Hunt, 2-4 p.m. at the EDH Community Pool. Register online at

eldoradohillscsd.org.

See Another Damn Disappointment and Lesser Sons, 8 p.m. to midnight at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit tickets.clubgreenroom. com.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino hosts the Elemental Immersion Experience beginning at 9:30 a.m. Throughout the day, attendees can take part in several wellness classes led by industry experts. Sessions range from a cold-water immersion in Lake Tahoe to breathwork and sound healing classes. For reservations call (775) 886-6745.

April 9

Nello Olivo Winery hosts an Easter Sunday Wine Brunch, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and a Grownup Easter Egg Hunt at 1 p.m. at the Camino tasting room. For tickets and more information call (530) 303-3617 or visit nelloolivo.com.

Freelance Reporters Wanted

The Mountain Democrat, California’s oldest newspaper, and Village Life newspapers are looking for community-minded reporters to take freelance assignments.

Assignments will range from news coverage to features. Freelance reporters must have interviewing skills and photography experience and be able to meet deadlines. Journalism experience preferred. Interested candidates should email a résumé, writing and photography samples and a brief cover letter to Krysten Kellum at kkellum@mtdemocrat.net.

The Mother Lode Lions Club hosts its annual Easter Egg Hunt, 1 p.m. sharp at Indian Creek School, 6701 Green Valley Road in Placerville. Bring your baskets and join the fun.

April 11

Check out the Senior Resource Fair, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Gilmore Senior Center in El Dorado Hills. The event is free with no registration required. Learn about resources to help and engage seniors while enjoying snacks, raffles and more.

The California Grand Jurors Association – El Dorado County Chapter hosts civil grand jury informational meetings that will cover many topics related to the civil grand jury process. Presentations are scheduled at 6 p.m. April 11 at the Cameron Park Library; 6 p.m. April 12 and the Placerville Library; and 1:30 p.m. April 13 at the El Dorado Hills Library. For more information email EDCchapter. CGJA@gmail.com.

Now

The El Dorado Roses are searching for candidates to run for the 2023 El Dorado Rose. Candidates must be at least 60 years old, have lived in the county for 10 years and have many hours of volunteer service to her community.

The El Dorado Rose dresses in period clothing from 18491910 and then becomes the official hostess of El Dorado County for one year. For more information call Carole Burnley at (530) 626-4949.

The California Native Plant Society – El Dorado Chapter hosts a spring plant sale online through April 8. Pick-up event will be held April 15. For more information visit shop. eldoradocnps.org.

Bigger and Better dozens of dinosaurs descend on the Sacramento Zoo

Lesley Kirrene Sacramento Zoo

SACRAMENTO —

The Sacramento Zoo is thrilled to announce the opening of an exhibit 65 million years in the making.

Dinosaur Safari at the Sac Zoo runs through March 2024. Gather the family, take a journey back through time and experience awe and wonder as more than 20 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs migrate from the Mesozoic Era to the Sacramento Zoo.

Hold your ground against a 65-foot-long brachiosaurus as she cares for her young. Beware of the towering tyrannosaurus rex. Stare up in awe at the Quetzalcoatlus as you enter the zoo and avoid getting head butted by a pachycephalosaurus.

The dinosaurs are ready. Are you?

The Sacramento Zoo’s Dinosaur Safari exhibit is included with zoo admission and is free for Sac Zoo members.

Dinosaur Safari was

created by Dino Don Inc., a leading supplier of animatronic dinosaurs to zoos and museums across the globe and the only creator of full-sized robot dinosaurs. These dinos were designed and created under scientific supervision. Don Lessem advised Steven

Spielberg on the original “Jurassic Park” film and has advised both the Universal and Disney theme parks as well.

This exhibit is presented by First 5 California. For tickets and more information visit saczoo org.

The Sacramento Zoo

is home to more than 400 native, rare and endangered animals and is one of more than 200 accredited institutions of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The zoo inspires conservation awareness and action through exceptional animal care, education

and recreation and it welcomes an average of 500,000 visitors a year. The Sacramento Zoological Society formed in 1958 to support and raise funds for the zoo that was created in 1927 in William Land Park. In 1970 the Sacramento

City Council adopted the name Sacramento Zoo. And in 1997, as city funding continued to decrease, the Sacramento Zoological Society assumed responsibility for the zoo’s management and the majority of its financial support.

NAMI offers free mental health class in El Dorado Hills

News release

April 19 through May 31 National Alliance for Mental Illness will offer its signature class, Family-to-Family, taught by Fred Hjerpe and Victoria Debenham, both of El Dorado Hills. This free, eight-session program for family, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions is a designated evidencedbased program. Research shows that the program significantly improves the

coping and problem-solving abilities of the people closest to a person with a mental health condition.

NAMI Family-to-Family is taught by NAMI-trained family members who have been there, and includes presentations, discussions and interactive exercises.

NAMI Family-to-Family not only provides information and strategies for taking care of the person you love, but you’ll also find out that you’re not alone. The group setting

of NAMI Family-to-Family provides mutual support and shared positive impact — experience compassion and reinforcement from people who understand your situation. In the program, you’ll learn:

• How to solve problems and communicate effectively

• Taking care of yourself and managing your stress

• Supporting your loved one with compassion

• Finding and using local supports

and services

• Up-to-date information on mental health conditions and how they affect the brain

• How to handle a crisis

• Current treatments and therapies

• The impact of mental health conditions on the entire family Classes run from 6:30-8:30 p.m at Marina Village Middle School in El Dorado Hills. All materials provided by the instructors. To register go to namieldoradocounty.org.

Courtesy photos

Animatronic dinosaurs join the other creatures living at the Sacramento Zoo. See the prehistoric creatures now.