Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, April 5, 2023

LAST CHANCE! Don’t Lose Out On Solar, Time is Limited!

REASONS TO GO SOLAR

DWR suRvey

Most snow since ’50s

Mountain Democrat staff

While water managers say it is difficult to precisely compare the snowpack across decades, statewide April 1 snowpack readings show 237% of average — tied with 1952 as the most measured since record keeping began.

The statewide average comes from electronic readings but the Department of Water Resources

on April 3 also conducted its fourth manual snow survey of the season at Phillips Station near Echo Summit. DWR data showed 126.5 inches of snow depth — about 10.5 feet — and a snow water equivalent of 54 inches, which is 221% of average for the location in early April.

Following three straight months of record dry conditions last year, on April 1, 2022, a DWR survey recorded just 2.5 inches of snow depth and a snow

water equivalent of 1 inch, which was 4% of average for Phillips Station.

The snow water equivalent measures the amount of water contained in the snowpack and is a key component of DWR’s water supply forecast.

DWR’s 2023 electronic readings from 130 snow sensors placed throughout the state indicate the statewide snowpack’s snow water equivalent is 61.1

n See snoW suRvey, page A8

Developer aims for ‘country store look’

n Divide residents say two gas stations ‘overkill’ for Cool

Odin Rasco

Staff writer

A public design review meeting regarding a proposed development in the “heart of Cool” drew a crowd of concerned Divide locals to the Pilot Hill

n See RevieW, page A3

Fireplace place placed in employees’ hands

Odin Rasco Staff writer

When Casey Kish and Parrish Stanton decided they were ready to move on from Sierra Home Alternatives, the Placerville-based fireplace business they co-owned, they looked for a way to make sure the store would continue on after they left.

Small businesses, even successful ones, face a crisis when the owners decide to retire or sell the business; data from the U.S. Small Business Administration shows around a quarter of businesses close for those two reasons. Rather than chance

those odds, Kish and Stanton decided on a different route, making their 11 employees the official owners of Sierra Home Alternatives with help of a company called Teamshares. Teamshares is a national company with a focus on providing an avenue for small businesses to become employee-owned, according to Chief Communications Officer Jaimen Sfetko.

“We want to break the succession cycle,” Sfetko said. “We’re trying to show that employee ownership should be for everyone.”

Eighty businesses across 27 states

n See sieRRa Home alteRnatives, page A7

California Department of Water Resources photo by Kenneth James

Light snow falls as California Department of Water Resources Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit staff conduct the measurement phase of a snow survey at Phillips Station April 3. Pictured taking snow samples are unit manager Sean de Guzman, right, and water resources engineer Jordan Thoennes.

Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco Architect and member of the ownership team for the development Mel Higginbotham presented design plans for the proposed gas station and commercial space to a group of concerned Divide residents March 30 at the Pilot Hill Grange.

Segrid Laughlin

Salmon

July 30, 1933 – March 30, 2023

Segrid Laughlin Salmon, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother died March 30, 2023, in Placerville, California. She was 89 years old.

Segrid was born July 30, 1933, to Stanley Joe Laughlin and Olive May Foster Laughlin in Chanute, Kansas. She grew up in Prescott, Kansas and Ft. Scott Kansas, meeting her future husband, Harold (Sam) Salmon, when she was a 13-year-old freshman at Fort Scott High School. She was in a Spanish class with seniors and was so in awe of them she never spoke to anyone the entire year. After High School, Segrid worked various jobs, including in the o ces of the Kansas Ordnance Plant, a munitions factory located in Parsons, Kansas. While working there, Segrid and Sam carried on a long-distance courtship and in the summer of 1952, they were married at the old Methodist church in Hiattville, Kansas. Four children were born to them in ensuing years, as they moved from Hiattville to Newton, Kansas; Manhattan, Kansas; and Edmond, Oklahoma.

Segrid was a devoted Mother to her children and stayed home to care for them, later working for several years in the oil and gas industry in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She was deeply interested in genealogy and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, National Society Colonial Dames, First Families of the Twin Territories (Oklahoma), and the Wing Family of America.

Segrid and Sam began spending winters in Oro Valley, AZ in 1995 and eventually retired there. Segrid enjoyed quilting, hiking, and exploring the Southwest. An avid sports fan, she enjoyed following Kansas State football and basketball, and Diamondbacks baseball for the 20 years they lived in Arizona, and then San Francisco Giants baseball after Sam and she moved to Placerville, Calif., in 2016.

Segrid was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Olive (Foster) Laughlin, and her dear husband of 70 years Harold Ross (Sam) Salmon. Her surviving family members, who will miss her dearly, include her brother Dan Laughlin (Jan), Mapleton, Kansas; four children and their spouses, Phyllis (Salmon) and Bryan Hunter of Lawrence, KS; Denise (Salmon) and Jim Brownlee of Surprise, AZ; Joe and Cyndy (Reno) Salmon of Placerville, CA; and Scott and Melissa (Scallan) Salmon of Tomball, TX; nine grandchildren, Erica Hunter, Nicole (Hunter) Jones, Dan Brownlee, Rebecca (Brownlee) McEfee, Billy Brownlee, Tom Salmon, Je Salmon, Melanie (Juneau) Luttrell, and Trevor Salmon; and 14 great-grandchildren. A private family celebration of Segrid’s life is planned for a later date.

Segrid was most of all a loving wife, mother and grandmother who was devoted to her family. She will be dearly missed by all of us.

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. Swertfeger

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.

Mark A. Villalta

Sept. 10, 1958 - March 26, 2023

He will be missed. Survived by daughter, Desiree, son Mark E and sister Taya.

Christopher Justin Hayes

June 25, 1975 – March 23, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Christopher Justin Hayes announces his passing on Monday, March 13 at the age of 47. A loving brother, friend, and father of three. Chris was born June 25, 1975 in Placerville to Samuel and Susan Hayes (Tripp). He was an accomplished artist who expressed himself through his art and tattoo work for the last 32 years up and down the west coast and Tennessee.

Chris had a passion for art, fishing and skateboarding to name a few. His career was spent creating personalized tattoo experiences around the world while immortalizing tattoo culture. He expressed himself through his artwork and did everything with all his heart. Chris had an enormous heart and an unfaltering love for all those he crossed paths with. He was known for his quick wit, his infectious smile, his laugh, and his kind and compassionate spirit. He was also known to have raised some hell from time to time.

OBITUARIES CRIME

He is preceded in death by his grandparents O’Neal and Sue Hayes and Don and Marilyn Ferguson. He is survived by his parents, Samuel Hayes Bismarck ND; Susan Tripp (Wesley) of Placerville; three children - Corbin; Eamon and Freya Hayes of Gualala; his siblings Melissa Lundin (Bismarck, ND); and Erin Rose (Covington, Tenn); Aunt - Jane Ferguson Meyers (Michael) (Pollock Pines, CA); Uncle - Joe Ferguson (Grizzly Flats, CA.); three nieces- Ieree and Mesa Lundin of Bismarck, and Olive Rose, Covington; and several cousins and close friends he called family.

Chris’s friends and family would like to personally thank the Hoopa Valley Community for their outpouring of love and endless support of Chris over the years. they would also like to extend their personal gratitude to Tim. They are forever grateful and their love is with you as his was with Chris.

Marlene Joy Van Winden

Dec. 30, 1934 - Feb. 24, 2023

Marlene Joy Van Winden, peacefully returned to the Lord’s care at the age of 88, the morning of Friday, February 24, 2023, in Sacramento Calif., surrounded by her loving family. Marlene was born to Walter and Maryan Lewis, December 30, 1934, in Oakland, California. She attended Saint Elizabeth’s High School, where she met her future husband, Arnold Paul Van Winden. They were married on September 12, 1953. In 1959, they moved to Lafayette, California and raised their fi ve children. Marlene was a homemaker and helped Arnold with his wood shutter business, Van’s Shutter House and later for a short time at ARCO Wood Products. Marlene was very involved in community activities as her family was growing up. She volunteered as a school Room Mother, 4-H Leader, and was a member of the Native Daughters of the Golden West. Later, she entered the job market, working part time in sales at J C Penny’s and Emporium Capwell’s department stores. When her children were grown, she went to work full time for the Contra Costa County O ce of Education. There she worked with special needs students as an assistant to the teacher in the classroom. She and Arnold retired in 2000, and moved to Diamond Springs, California. Marlene got right to work there volunteering at St. Patrick’s Upper Room, The Clothes Closet, and as a Eucharist Minister. Marlene also enjoyed gardening, traveling, cruising, and spending time with friends and family. In 2020, Marlene moved to Elk Grove, California to be closer to her family, while continuing to make new friends and lasting memories.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Maryan Lewis; her husband, Arnold Van Winden; her brother, Robert Jensen; and her sister Barbara Turner. She is survived by her children, Loretta, David, John, Allen, Arnold and three grandchildren, Jacob, Britany, and Troy.

A Rosary is scheduled for Tuesday, April 11, 2023, at 5:00 pm at Chapel of the Pines, 2855 Cold Springs Road, Placerville, California.

A Funeral Mass will then be held on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at 11:00 am at St. Patrick Church, 3109 Sacramento Street, Placerville, California, 95667.

weather

PLaCerVILLe 5-day FOreCaSt

The following was taken from El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office logs:

March 24

1:18 a.m. Burglary was reported on La Canada Drive in Cameron Park.

2:12 a.m. Deputies booked into jail

a 56-year-old man suspected of a felony parole violation on Indian Creek Road in Placerville. He was listed in custody.

2:36 a.m. Battery was reported at a store on Marshall Road in Garden Valley.

8:09 a.m. Burglary was reported on Highway 193 in Greenwood.

10:19 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 34-year-old man suspected of vandalism and possession of a controlled substance on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines. He was listed in custody in lieu of $50,500 bail.

10:34 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a business on Commodity Way in Shingle Springs.

11:52 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Patterson Drive in Diamond Springs.

3 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Gold Country Drive in El Dorado.

3:57 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of motor vehicle theft on Coach Lane in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody.

6:55 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 42-year-old man suspected of a felony probation violation on Hassler Road in Camino. He was listed in custody.

7:33 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of grand theft on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville. He was later released.

11:43 p.m. Battery was reported on Misty Creek Court in Pilot Hill.

March 25

12:18 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 26-year-old woman suspected of possession of a stolen vehicle, vehicle theft, conspiracy, possession of burglary tools and burglary on Mt. Aukum Road in Somerset. She was listed in custody in lieu of $100,000 bail.

1:32 a.m. A suspect was arrested following a battery reported on Country Club Drive in Cameron Park.

2:02 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 28-year-old woman suspected of a probation violation on Cameron Park Drive in Cameron Park. She was released on $5,000 bail.

3:44 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 29-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance, felony parole violations, a probation violation and having a bench warrant on Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs. He was listed in custody.

4:34 a.m. A suspect was arrested following a vehicle stop on Post Street in El Dorado Hills.

6:02 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 27-year-old woman suspected of grand theft on Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. She was listed in custody in lieu of $20,000 bail.

6:39 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of battery and petty theft on Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody in lieu of $7,000 bail.

2:02 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a storage facility on Stage Court in Placerville.

2:48 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 22-year-old woman suspected of attempted burglary, trespassing, possession of drugs and probation violations on Highway 50 at Sly Park Road in Pollock Pines. She was listed in custody in lieu of $30,000 bail.

Fire at navigation center leads to arrest

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

Placerville police arrested a man who had been staying at the El Dorado County navigation center March 30 on charges of recklessly causing a fire in an inhabited structure.

An investigation by the Placerville Police Department’s Crime Reduction Team and El Dorado County Fire Protection District arson investigators found evidence indicating 51-year-old Jerry Brown had modified an electronic device or stored batteries unsafely that caused a mattress fire in one of the rooms inside the homeless shelter at 299 Fair Lane, according to a press release

from PPD.

It is believed Brown was the last to occupy the room where the fire started.

No injuries were reported and navigation center staff safely evacuated the building as El Dorado County Fire and Placerville PD responders arrived at on scene shortly after the call came at 1:50 p.m.

Witnesses say they could see smoke coming from the shelter, formerly the site of the county’s juvenile detention facility. Brown is held at the El Dorado County Jail in Placerville on $80,000 bail. Placerville police are requesting anyone with further information on the incident to contact officer Michael Pullmann at (530) 642-5210.

Review Continued from A1

Grange March 30.

The potential development would be spread over 11,679 square feet next to the intersection of Highways 49 and 193 and include a gas station and commercial spaces. Members of the Cool-Pilot Hill Advisory Committee have shared they are “extremely concerned” about the potential impacts of the project and asked to be allowed to participate in a Technical Advisory Committee meeting regarding the development. CPHAC members were told the public was not invited to the committee meeting and opted to hold its own public design review meeting.

CPHAC chairperson

Marc Stanley opened the meeting by establishing his own stance before explaining why he felt the group ought to hear out presenter Melvin Higginbotham.

“The CPHAC isn’t pro-growth; it’s not anti-growth,” Stanley said. “It’s about focusing on what is right for the community. I personally would not like to see this come through but we should hear it out. Mel has come out here and has said that he wants to hear what this community needs.”

Higginbotham, architect and member of the ownership team for the HBD Capital LLC project, presented design details and fielded frequent questions from the audience for two hours. He emphasized the designs had been

revisited from the first draft to incorporate suggestions and requests community members made. Those design elements include circling the property with trees and keeping lights as low and directional as possible to combat light pollution, as well as setting all lights to only reach 50% of maximum brightness after a to-bedetermined time of the evening.

“We want to do what we can to have it blend in; many were saying that the development should have a country store look and that’s what we shot for,” Higginbotham explained, as he showed a slide with a mock-up of how the development could look.

Other concessions to public concerns built directly into the design include eight parking spaces specifically for visitors to use local trails and a 1,200-square-foot space that could be used as a visitor center or some other communitydecided purpose.

The sentiments of the gathered crowd

were less than positive, however, with people speaking up to say there was no need or demand for the development from locals.

“You’ve got a nice plan but it’s overkill for Cool,” one in the audience said. “We don’t have that kind of traffic that calls for two gas stations up in Cool; there’s no shoulder-to-shoulder housing developments up here.”

“Well, see, that’s our next development we have planned,” Higginbotham joked, met with groans and chuckles in equal measure.

Aloha Adams, vice chair of CPHAC, voiced frustrations shared by many regarding the development planning, saying the county was “throwing a lack of transparency right in our faces” by not allowing the committee to be involved in the Technical Advisory Committee meeting.

“We already have a convenience store the county gave us that we didn’t want,” Adams said. “Talk about a

PUBLIC NOTICE

closed-door meeting.”

Many asked why the development could not be located elsewhere, preferably less raised above the town, but Higginbotham explained the ownership team already owned the property and had invested a significant amount of money in studies and preparation. Those costs may only go up as the developer seeks approval and building permits if CPHAC has anything to say about it.

“Assuming our stall tactics and lawsuits don’t work, and you should know those are coming, Mel, they will be able to build whatever they want on that space as long as it is according to zoning and other laws,” Stanley said. “But we can drag this process out and cost the owners a whole lot of money before then.”

An additional meeting for Higginbotham to address public comment and questions after CPHAC has had time to confer over the plans is expected to be scheduled soon.

SMUD Wildfire Mitigation Plan update available for public review

SMUD recognizes the devastating impacts of wildfires and we’re always working to make the safety of our employees, customers and community our top priority. We have prepared a Wildfire Mitigation Plan (WMP) that identifies the many programs and protocols SMUD has in place to prevent, mitigate and respond to potential wildfire risks related to our electric facilities. This WMP is reviewed annually.

• The public is invited to review SMUD’s Public Review Draft of the 2023–2025 WMP and provide comments. In 2019, SMUD adopted a WMP. The plan was approved by the Board of Directors after a thorough process including extensive public outreach and input, coordination with state and local agencies as well as critical service providers in and outside of our service territory where we own and operate electrical infrastructure and rights of way. The WMP builds on our commitment to providing safe, reliable, environmentally sustainable and economic power. The plan is reviewed annually with a comprehensive review performed at least every three years, and updated as needed.

• The objectives of SMUD’s WMP are to:

1.Reduce the risk of potential wildfire-causing ignition associated with SMUD’s electrical infrastructure;

2.Implement a WMP that embraces safety, prevention, mitigation and recovery as central priority for SMUD; and

3. Create a WMP that is consistent with state law and objectives.

• The public can view the Public Review Draft of SMUD’s 2023–2025 WMP at smud.org/WildfireSafety

The 2023–2025 WMP Public Review Draft is available for comment through May 5, 2023. Comments may be submitted to wmp@smud.org

In addition, an opportunity for public comments will be available when the WMP is presented to SMUD s Board of Directors later this spring. To join the list to receive notice of this Board action please sign up at smud.org/en/Corporate/Landing-Pages/For-review/Board-notifications

If you have questions or would like to provide comments, please email wmp@smud.org For more information, visit smud.org/WildfireSafety

Dr. Little’s Dental News

PERIODONTAL ULTRASONIC SCALING

During your next dental cleaning, the hygienist may use an ultrasonic scaler to remove calculus (tartar) from your teeth and under the gumline. Ultrasonic scalers are very gentle to your teeth, gums, and roots, making them a good option for patients with gum disease. They use water, ultrasound, and mechanical vibrations to make tooth calculus easier to remove. They also create shock waves that disrupt bacteria biofilms, allowing bacteria and debris to be flushed by a stream of water emitted from the ultrasonic scaler. Tiny bubbles in the water create an oxygenated environment that further disrupts bacteria. In addition to safely cleaning the surfaces of teeth, ultrasonic

scalers are used below the gumline to clean tooth root surfaces without damage. We stay on the leading-edge of dentistry, always up to date on the latest dental techniques, materials, therapies and health studies to ensure all our patients receive the very best in dental health care. If you are looking for a family dentist who understands the needs of everyone in your family as individuals and patients, we welcome you to stop by and get acquainted. We’re sure you’ll leave with a good feeling about our practice. P.S. Ultrasonic scalers are significantly more effective than manual instruments at removing tartar from periodontal pockets deeper than four millimeters.

Day Hiker

Courtesy photos

A Placerville police officer cuffs a suspect charged with reckless arson March 30.

A room sustained damage after a mattress caught fire at El Dorado County’s navigation center.

A Divide resident shares a series of concerns regarding the proposed development poised to go in at the intersection of Highways 193 and 49 in Cool at a design review meeting.

Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco

California Matters

Gov. Newsom displays his penchant for shiny, new things on a state tour

As a species, politicians love news conferences and other events that celebrate new programs or public works projects.

The syndrome may explain why officials often ignore long-festering problems in existing programs, such as the Employment Development Department and the bullet train project. Simply making things work better doesn’t have the political appeal of something new and shiny.

Gov. Gavin Newsom is particularly prone to the affliction, declaring early on his love for “big, hairy audacious goals” and later adding, “I’d rather be accused of (having) those audacious stretch goals than be accused of timidity.”

Letters to the Editor

Newsom’s odd priorities

EDITOR:

I’m writing this letter as I cannot believe our California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Summary

That proclivity led him, as a candidate, to pledge that he would try to solve California’s housing crisis by building 3.5 million new houses and apartments by 2025 and make California the first state to embrace single-payer health care.

Later, when both proved to be unattainable, he declared them to be “aspirational” rather than firm promises.

California Gov. Gavin Newson shunned a traditional State of the State address last month and instead toured the state to unveil new programs for social ills.

Newsom’s tendency toward the grandiose was very evident last month when he once again shunned a traditional State of the State address to the Legislature and instead toured the state for serial announcements.

One is converting San Quentin prison into a laboratory to test whether a softer approach to preparing felons for release, modeled after a program in Norway, will be more effective in steering them away from crime. Newsom boasted that the renamed San Quentin Rehabilitation Center will be the “most innovative rehabilitation facility” in the nation, displaying another characteristic — his obsession with being the first to do something.

n See WalterS page A5

Guest Column

Now he is going to have California overhaul San Quentin State Prison, emphasizing rehab and job training. The infamous state prison on the San Francisco Bay, which has been home to the largest death row population in the United States, will be transformed into a lockup where less dangerous prisoners will receive education, training and rehabilitation. The nearly 700 inmates who received death sentences to be served at San Quentin will be moved elsewhere in the California penitentiary system, Newsom’s office announced, and it will be renamed the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. How about some help for the homeless? I know there are shelters for them but what about job training? Help the ones who really need it — the ones who do not commit crimes.

I don’t understand our governor’s priorities or his way of thinking. It seems to me if you commit a crime, you get a lot of help. It seems the poor victims in all of this are forgotten. How sad.

I think prisoners should do their time — and no job training. As it stand now, folks can commit and crime, go to prison and get good job training.

CONNIE ROSEN Pollock Pines

Amnesty proposal for El Dorado County

EDITOR:

Does your home need amnesty?

El Dorado County supervisors are considering an amnesty program for existing homes. Some homeowners are not aware of work on their home by former owners that may not be compliant with county regulations.

What will the county policies or objectives be for current or future homeowners? Will they have to pay or comply with demands, building codes or inspections? Will solar systems or interior sprinkler systems be required?

In my opinion, there seems to be increased county activity of demands directed at current homeowners. This is usually based on the Building Department or Code Enforcement contending that something must comply with current regulations.

Some charges referenced by Planning, Code Enforcement or the Building Department refer back two, three or more previous ownerships. Fines demanded or compliance may represent thousands of dollars. My experience with clients is that as the current owner, they may have to pay, comply or prove innocence. Some owners may not be able to cure violations or may not be able to afford paying the fine.

It’s my understanding that the El Dorado County Building Department records did not exist prior to about 1965. I hear many building records prior to 1970 were lost. Plus, some of their records may not be accurate? So where does the Building Department and Code Enforcement obtain their information?

The Planning Department has been preparing an amnesty proposal to be submitted to our supervisors. They are reviewing other out of area county or city amnesty programs. However, the Placer County amnesty program appears not to have been included for consideration. Those county officials have provided policies over the past few years to resolve issues similar to ours. Part of their overview is a method to increase the stock of housing units and to incentivize owners to legalize their non-complying homes. Permitting these units allows jurisdictions to balance the need to provide housing plus address health and safety issues. Plus, many new state laws are mandating an increase in housing units for our county.

The Planning Department is supposed to submit a final proposal to our supervisors soon. Meanwhile, we need to express our thoughts or experiences to our supervisors.

BUD ZELLER Diamond Springs

Equity

EDITOR:

Americans are notorious for inventing or changing the meaning of words. Like equity, for example. During my whole life it meant a percentage of ownership in something. A business, house, car — how much you own compared to how much you have financed is how much equity you have in that thing you own.

And now somehow the term is being changed to

n See letterS page A5

The United States: A nation committing suicide

Historian Arnold Toynbee observed, “An autopsy of history would show that all great nations commit suicide.”

It’s hard not to think about this reading the results of the latest Wall Street Journal-NORC poll, appearing under the headline “America Pulls Back From Values That Once Defined It.”

Only 38% of Americans now say patriotism is “very important,” compared to 70% in 1998. Thirtynine percent say religion is “very important,” compared to 62% in 1998. And 30% say having children is “very important” compared to 59% in 1998.

The results that follow from these attitudes are not surprising.

Marriage rates are way down. Birth rates are way down.

In 1990, 67% of American adults between the ages of 25-54 were married. This was down to 51% in 2021.

In 2020 there were 56 births in the U.S. for every 1,000 women ages 15-44. In 1990 there were 70.9. And, among the births we do have, in 2021, 40% of our babies were born to unmarried mothers.

Not surprisingly, our population is hardly growing. In 2022 the U.S. population increased 0.4%, a modest increase from the 0.1% increase in 2021, the lowest annual population growth since the founding of the nation.

Looking at the same polling data results among the youngest sector of our population, the picture looks even more dismal. Among those younger than 30, just 23% say patriotism is “very important” to them, 31% say religion is “very important” and 23% say having children is “very important.”

What is important to Americans today?

Although 70% say marriage is either “very important” or “somewhat

important,” 65% say belief in God is “very important” or “somewhat important,” 73% say patriotism is “very important” or “somewhat important,” 91% say self-fulfillment is “very important” or “somewhat important” and 90% say money is “very important” or “somewhat important.”

The devaluing of marriage, children and patriotism and the focus on “selffulfillment” and money are, of course, signs of a culture sunk into egotism and materialism, with a loss of a sense of being part of something larger than oneself.

It is not an encouraging picture for a country that hopes to have a future.

Our healthcare and retirement systems depend on a growing population. Stagnant population growth means more and more retirees per each individual in the workforce. It’s why our Social Security system is bankrupt.

Zero population growth means an aging population and increasing healthcare costs. In 2019, 56% of all healthcare costs were in age groups 55 and older. The overall burden of healthcare costs will continue to increase as the percentage of the population older than 55 increases.

There are also implications on national security of attitudes that devalue patriotism and national service.

We now have a volunteer military. This can’t work with a population of young people who feel no sense of identity and obligation to their nation.

Again, the results are predictable. In 2022 the Army fell 15,000 short of its recruiting goal.

National defense spending is 3% of GDP, very low by historical standards.

The Wall Street Journal reports our Navy’s fleet of ships will shrink

n See Parker page A5

The devaluing of marriage, children and patriotism and the focus on “self-fulfillment” and money are, of course, signs of a culture sunk into egotism and materialism …

STAr PArkEr

DAN WALTErS

Walters Continued from A4

The splashiest of Newsom’s new things is a multibillion-dollar plan to house thousands of homeless and mentally ill Californians in new facilities that would combine shelter with treatment for their a ictions.

The project would be financed mostly by a bond issue in the $3 billion to $5 billion range to be placed before voters next year and would be an adjunct to Newsom’s “Care Court” program that allows the mentally ill to be compelled to accept treatment.

“It’s unacceptable what we’re dealing with at scale now in California,” Newsom said. “We have to address and come to grips with the reality of mental health in our state and in our nation.”

Even if implemented as hoped, the two mental health projects would make only a relatively tiny dent in the state’s homelessness crisis. California still lacks a comprehensive approach and is mired in finger-pointing among state, county and city o cials over who’s responsible for dealing with it.

Billions of dollars have been spent by all three levels of California government, plus no small amount of federal funds, but the number of unhoused Californians continues to climb, o cially approaching 200,000 but probably much higher.

The exchanges between Newsom and county o cials have been especially pointed. He’s accused counties of dragging their feet on e ectively spending state grant money while county o cials say they need a dedicated and predictable revenue stream for long-term programs.

As Newsom was touring the state, the California

State Association of Counties, issued what it said is a comprehensive approach to homelessness embracing housing, social services, education and employment with clear lines of responsibility and accountability for outcomes.

“No one level of government is solely responsible for the homelessness crisis,” CSAC president Chuck Washington, a Riverside County supervisor, said in a statement. “But any and all e orts to address homelessness will fail without a comprehensive system in which roles and responsibilities are clear.”

Fundamentally, CSAC is calling for making the systems and services already in place work better. That doesn’t have much political appeal but is, to use one of Newsom’s favorite words, “foundational” for progress on the homelessness crisis.

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

Letters Continued from A4

mean fairness and justice. That “we” all don’t start at the same place in life and “we” need to make adjustments for fairness sake.

I believe the word equity applies perfectly as it has always meant. How much you invest in your own life is equity. Someone else who gives you credit for the purpose of making them feel better about their own lives has always been defined as exploitation.

KEN STEERS Cameron Park

Civil Grand Jury now recruiting

News release

Would you like to learn about local government while helping to improve it? If so, serving on the El Dorado County Civil Grand Jury may be for you. Now is the time to apply for the 2023-24 Civil Grand Jury term. The jury serves as the public’s “watchdog” over local governments. The Civil Grand Jury investigates and reports on the operations of local governments and makes recommendations for them to become more e cient, e ective, transparent and accountable.

The jury selects its own topics for investigation, which may be based on complaints submitted by the public. Following its investigation, the jury prepares a report of its findings and recommendations. The jury submits its report to the agency’s managing o cial or board who is required to respond either in agreement or disagreement with the findings and recommendations.

All reports and responses are available for review on the El Dorado County Grand Jury’s website at edcgov.us/grandjury. The jury typically produces five to 10 reports each year on a variety of issues. Recently, reports addressed elections, county sta ng challenges, timekeeping procedures, vegetation management/defensible space and fire districts. Training is provided to jurors at the beginning of each term for conducting investigations and writing reports.

Applications are being accepted until May 15 for the term of July 1 through June 30, 2024. Serving on the jury usually requires at least eight hours per week. Jurors receive a stipend of $15 per day and mileage reimbursement. An applicant must be a citizen of the United States, 18 years of age or older and a resident of El Dorado County for a minimum of one year. For more information and to complete an application visit edcgov.us/grandjury.

Parker Continued from A4

to 291 by 2028 from 297 today. And the number of aircrafts in the Air Force is diminishing.

Only 21% of those surveyed say our country “stands above all countries in the world.”

But our country is only the product of its citizenry. A free nation under God becomes less free, and less great, as the Creator is traded in for materialism and egotism.

We have elections coming in 2024. President Joe Biden, assuming he runs, will run on more of what is destroying our nation. It is up to Republicans to run on principles and ideals, in hope that we can mend our rapidly sinking ship of state.

Star Parker is president of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and host of the weekly television show “Cure America with Star Parker.”

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

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

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

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

COMICS

■

Generator starts fire running next to home

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

Firefighters put out a fire at a home on Northridge Drive in Placerville Sunday that was caused by a portable generator running against an exterior wall.

Around 10:20 a.m. the electricity went out for residents of north Placerville, prompting some to start up their generators. Fire o cials report the portable generator used on Northridge Drive was running about 20 minutes before starting a fire. Crews from the El Dorado County and Diamond Springs-El Dorado fire protection districts responded to the incident around 11:05 a.m. and contained the flames to the wall.

Fire o cials noted no injuries were reported and several cats inside the home were unharmed.

The incident serves as a reminder to take safety precautions when operating a portable generator. Firefighters warn residents that portable generators should only be operated 20 feet away from structures and never inside while exhaust should be directed away from the home or other buildings. Generators with an automatic high CO concentration shuto feature are recommended.

■

SUDOKU

HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis

■ TODAY

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Competitors show up — a gift that motivates you to up your game. There’s no reason to doubt yourself. You’ll be whatever you decide to be, so decide to be confident. Your sportsmanship will set the tone.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). People who want to change and believe they can change will do so. This will occur regardless of background, finances, education or any other factor. Improvement is not only possible, it’s highly probable. Refuse to listen to any unhelpful beliefs.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). There’s a good chance you’ll get what you want for free or cheap. People trying to make a sale will tell you to act fast, but if this is really for you, you’ll be able to get it tomorrow, next week or next year. If it has to be sold via hard-sell, it’s probably not that great a product.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). The lumberjack felling a tree does not fret over where the wood chips land because the focus is on the bigger issue of the trunk. Similarly, you’re handling the essential issues now and can safely let the chips fall where they may.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Don’t wait until you feel focused to act. It’s the action that brings you focus and not the other way around. You won’t know which ideas are good until you follow through and test them out.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). First impressions are the beginning of a relationship and set a tone for everything that follows. The most important thing to take note of is how you feel around a person. There are many energizing people around, so keep moving until you find them.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You care a great deal about doing a job right. The nervousness you feel makes you human. Eventually, your body and mind will get used to this and it won’t affect you so strongly. Until then, do it scared.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). A paradox: You’ll have to guard a thing to keep it free. You’ll make sure that no one and nothing can get to the things you hold sacred.

You’ll protect your time, your joy and your inner being.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). People want to tell you about their lives because you listen with your heart and they feel heard and seen by you. You don’t offer up advice, opinions or fixes. Listening well is powerful and more than enough.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). As an actor or writer does, you’ll learn through people-watching. You’ll guess how closely— or loosely — different people are bound to one another. You’ll listen to what’s said and unsaid to gather insight about the feelings of others.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Your energy is high and you’ll speed through tasks. It’s frustrating when lines or traffic slow you down, but a pleasure to be slowed down by the needs of a loved one. Love and patience go hand in hand.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). However massive the

SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin

SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

A firefighter investigates a Placerville house fire caused by a portable generator April 2.

have partnered with Teamshares in a model designed to help ease the transition to employee ownership. When the switch-over begins employees are immediately given a 10% share in the business and a new manager is brought in to help lead the way, training and directing the other employees to better understand their roles as co-owners.

Sfetko emphasized while Teamshares brings in a new leader, the company does not take control, trusting the businesses to run the ways that have let them succeed in the past.

Jeff Cooke, an El Dorado County resident, had previously coordinated with Teamshares and was brought in to help manage Sierra Home Alternatives last March.

“Employees get trained to read the financials, learn the extra details of how the business runs,” Cooke explained. “What you

see is that everyone feels more engaged and involved with how the business is doing. This being a very seasonal business, winter can be a stressful time. But with this deeper level of engagement and the authentic sense of ownership, everyone is more ready to endure those stressful times.”

As the business continues to profit, employee-owners begin to earn dividends and acquire more stake in the business over time. Sierra Home Alternatives just saw its first wave of dividend checks, which will only grow as their ownership in the company rises.

“Employees start at 10% ownership, and over time they earn more and more of the company, up to 80%,” Cooke said. “The way Teamshares has it set up, it will not take more than 20 years, but it can happen as quickly as five or six.”

Sierra Home Alternatives has been

serving El Dorado County for 28 years, selling a range of heating solutions — pellet, wood and gas stoves — as well as providing preventative servicing and repair.

Austin Parsons has been working there for the past 18 years, where he has risen in the ranks to sales manager. Parsons said he and the other employees had no warning they were soon to become part-owner of the business until the ink had dried on the deal, but he is nothing but appreciative.

“I was a 22-year-old kid in college when I started here,” Parsons recalled. “I learned a ton from the owners, both in business and life in general. Parrish and Casey caring so much about this place to pass it on to us has been great; by working with Teamshares, we can keep the business going without us having to have gotten all the money together to buy it outright.”

The Sierra Home Alternatives team is ready to continue serving the community for many more years to come and Teamshares is looking to grow as well.

“Right now, we’ve done this process of transitioning small business to an employee-owned model 80 times,” Sfetko said. “We want to keep going and see that turn into

1,000. We want to make it so that small businesses don’t ever have to close again and provide this avenue that turns a job into a career because of the path to ownership.”

Rattlesnake Avoidance For Dogs

April

All sessions are full.

June 24–25, 2023

Each dog is individually trained with live rattlesnakes and is personally trained by staff from HIGH ON KENNELS. Sponsored By Hangtown Kennel Club Of Placerville, CA, Inc. with assistance from Dalmatian Club of No. CA You’ll be

inches, or 237% of average.

In April 2022 the statewide snowpack was 38% of average.

This year’s April 1 result from the statewide snow sensor network is higher than any other reading since the snow sensor network was established in the mid-1980s, according to a DWR news release. Before the network was established the 1983 April 1 statewide summary from manual snow course measurements was 227% of average.

The 1952 April 1 statewide summary for snow course measurements was 237% of average.

“This year’s result will go down as one of the largest snowpack years on record in California,” said Sean de Guzman, manager of DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit. “While 1952’s snow course measurements showed a similar result, there were fewer snow courses at that time, making it difficult to compare to today’s results. Because additional snow courses were added over the years, it is difficult to compare results accurately across the decades with precision, but this year’s snowpack is definitely one of the biggest the state has seen since the 1950s.”

For California’s snow course measurements, only 1952, 1969 and 1983 recorded statewide results above 200% of the April 1 average, DWR officials note.

While above average across the state this year, snowpack varies by region.

The Southern Sierra snowpack is currently 300% of its April 1 average and the Central Sierra is at 237% of its April 1 average. However, the critical Northern Sierra, where the state’s largest surface water reservoirs are located, is at 192% of its April 1 average.

The size and distribution of this year’s snowpack is also posing severe flood risk to areas of the state, especially the Southern San Joaquin Valley. DWR’s State-Federal Flood Operations Center is supporting emergency response in the Tulare Lake Basin and lower San Joaquin River by providing flood fight specialists to support ongoing flood response activities and by providing longer-term advanced planning activities.

“After the driest three years on record and devastating drought impacts to communities across the state, DWR has rapidly shifted to

flood response and forecasting for the upcoming snowmelt,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “We have provided flood assistance to many communities who just a few months ago were facing severe drought impacts.”

The FOC and DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit reports they are helping agencies plan for the spring snowmelt season by providing hydraulic and hydrologic modeling and snowmelt forecasts specific to the Tulare Lake Basin that are informed by DWR’s snowmelt forecasting tools, including Airborne Snow Observatory surveys.

Storms this year have caused impacts across the state, including flooding in the community of Pajaro and communities in Sacramento, Tulare and Merced counties.

On March 24, DWR announced an increase in the forecasted State Water Project deliveries to 75%, up from 35% announced in February, due to the improvement in the state’s water supplies. Gov. Gavin Newsom has rolled back some drought emergency provisions that are no longer needed due to improved water conditions while maintaining other measures that continue building up long-term water resilience and that support regions and communities still facing water supply challenges.

While winter storms have helped the snowpack and reservoirs, groundwater basins are much slower to recover. Many rural areas are still experiencing water supply challenges, especially communities that rely on groundwater supplies which have been depleted due to prolonged drought.

Long-term drought conditions in the Colorado River Basin will also continue to impact the water supply for millions of Californians. The state continues to encourage Californians to make water conservation a way of life as more swings between wet and dry conditions are projected for the future.

DWR conducts five media-oriented snow surveys at Phillips Station each winter near the first of each month, January through April and, if necessary, May. Given the size of this year’s snowpack with more snow in the forecast, DWR anticipates conducting a May snow survey at Phillips Station. That is tentatively scheduled for May 1.

Department of Water Resources photos by Fred Greaves Cars drive past piles of snow just off Highway 50 near Sierra-at-Tahoe April 3. The ski resort’s snow total for winter 2022-23 has reached a record 680 inches.

A stream cuts through the snow survey site at Phillips Station.

Gallery gets’ ‘playful’ with new exhibit featuring innocence of childhood

Cindy Abraham News release

FOLSOM — The Gallery at 48 Natoma hosts the El Dorado Hills Arts Association annual studio tour preview, April 7 to June 13, and presents a new exhibit, Playful Pieces. April 14 to June 15, with an opening reception for both shows 6-8 p.m. Friday, April 14. What fun it is to re-live the playful times of childhood — climbing trees, running around in playgrounds, swimming and playing. These themes are brought together by two artists in the Playful Pieces exhibit where large, narrative paintings by Cherie Hacker and whimsical ceramic sculpture by Sandy Calhoun are featured.

Hacker is best known for her abstract paintings full of lively organic and geometric shapes composed in a colorful symphony. Her expressive practice of blended, layered and drawn mark-making reflects the shapes, lines and movement seen in nature. Hacker’s work brings focus to the importance of the picture plane as part of the ongoing exploration in paint to tap into the unconscious mind and provoke an emotional response. She invites the

in

viewer to create their own interpretation and enjoys hearing what others imagine.

Calhoun is a people watcher. “The essence of my work is not the subject or the medium, but the stories that are discovered that connect the piece to the viewer and to me. I don’t believe I actually create my work as much as discover it as I build,” said the artist.

Clay is the perfect material for this discovery as it allows her to experiment and explore as she constructs each piece, looking for a way to balance what she knows to be a true story with the story that she wants to create. She has been able to develop her skills as a ceramic artist, explore her quirks and discover that art can be weird and funny and personal.

The membership of the El Dorado Hills Arts Association has on display in the Community Gallery a variety of work promoting the 2023 Spring Art Studio Tour with 48 artists from 20 studios participating in this year’s event. This is a great way to see a preview of all the artists on the tour, get a free studio map and plan a route for the tour. The Gallery at 48 Natoma will be open for the tour weekend, 10 a.m. to 5

p.m. Saturday, May 20, and Sunday, May 21; admission is free and all ages are welcome. For more information about the studio tour visit eldoradohillsarts.com/ art-studio-tour-2023. html.

The Gallery at 48 Natoma is located at 48 Natoma St. in Folsom. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and evening hours from 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call (916)

461-6601 to reserve a free tour appointment time. For more information visit folsom. ca.us, the Gallery at 48 Natoma, or contact Gallery Director Cindy Abraham at cabraham@ folsom.ca.us.

“Dreamer in the Trees” by Cherie Hacker

Day hiker

Tamarack Lake and Tamarack Loop trails

The seep gardens in the foreground with mountain peaks in the background are an amazing setting for a time-out from our daily grinds. Butterflies and bumblebees flit from flower to flower as you make your way down to Tamarack Lake, crossing seasonal creeks along the way. My caution for you would be the

mountain bikers. This is a multi-use trail, but the trail is often narrow with steep sides, making it hard to jump off when a bicycle is coming. Keep an eye out so you have time to move off to the side before the cyclist arrives.

Once I made my way to the water’s edge I had the lake to myself. For a moderate to heavily trafficked trail, I was pleased.

As it was my intention to hike the Tamarack Loop Trail, I put it on my to-do list for the next weekend.

I started once again from the Mount Rose Trailhead. Once up the granite staircase to where the trail splits I headed straight ahead on the Tahoe Rim Trail instead of making the right that leads down to the lake. A steady climb takes you around the east side

n See Day hiker, page B3

Photo by Mary

Mary West Outdoor columnist

PRESERVE IT!

Too many red onions

When the UC Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County taught its 2022 Thanksgiving Public Class, one recipe, the Red Onion Port Jam, really intrigued one of our volunteers. To her, this flavor combination sounded amazing and she was determined to make a batch. Since her husband liked to go shopping, she asked him to pick up a bag of red onions for this jam recipe. He took that chore seriously, bringing home a rather big bag containing more than 12 huge red onions. This was much more than she needed, but she smiled and said thank you. She wasn’t going to complain when he did such a wonderful favor.

So, she made a batch of the jam, which the two of them loved. With so many onions still in the bag, she made a second batch. At this point she still had seven red onions left so she began to search for ways to preserve these leftover onions.

She dehydrated a good number of them. Then she found a recipe that sounded interesting in the “Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving (2020)” called Quick Red Onion Marmalade. She made a batch. It was a moment of wow! She had no idea mixing oranges and orange peel with red onions would taste so good.

The two recipes, while both jams, are completely di erent. The Red Onion Port Jam is more on the savory taste-scale, going wonderfully on meat sandwiches or on a charcuterie board of meats and cheeses while the Quick Red Onion Marmalade is sweeter and lighter, pairing better with a breakfast spread.

As it is nearing the end of the citrus season, perhaps you find yourself with some oranges in your refrigerator waiting to be eaten. Before you peel them for a salad, zest them and make this marmalade recipe. Send your partner, spouse or teenager to the store for some red onions. If they

happen to come back from shopping with a large bag full, you now have ideas how to deal with it.

Quick Red Onion Marmalade

Makes about five 8-ounce jars

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups thinly sliced red onions

1/2 cup finely chopped dried cranberries

1/4 cup lightly packed brown sugar

1/4 cup cider vinegar

2 teaspoons grated orange zest

3 cups unsweetened apple juice

1 package regular powdered pectin

4 cups granulated sugar

Prepare canner, jars and lids.

In a skillet, over medium heat, combine red onions, cranberries, brown sugar and vinegar. Cook, stirring until onion is transparent, about 10 minutes.

In a large, deep stainless-steel saucepan combine cooked onion mixture, orange zest and apple juice. Whisk in pectin until dissolved. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently. Add sugar all at once;

Day Hiker

Continued from B2

of the mountain. At about the halfway point you can hear the waterfall. More seep gardens and great views of surrounding peaks is your payo . Make your way around the west side of the mountain to the fire road. The waterfall, wildflowers and views are wonderful but a gentle walk down hill on this wide dirt road was welcome. The scent of coyote mint in the heat of the day accompanied me most of the return trip before the final north/easterly section of the trail takes you parallel to Highway 431 and back to the trailhead, a genuine loop trail.

The Tamarack peak elevation is 9,891 feet. Pockets of snow found shade to remain even in mid-August.

To get there from Placerville take Highway 50 east to South Lake Take up the east side of the lake

return to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly. Boil hard, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Remove from heat and skim o foam.

Ladle hot marmalade into hot jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles; adjust headspace, if necessary. Wipe rim. Center the lid on jar. Screw band down until resistance is met, then increase to fingertip tight.

Process in a boiling water or steam canner for 15 minutes at 0-1,000 feet elevation, 20 minutes at 1,001-3,000 feet, 25 minutes at 3,001-6,000 feet, 30 minutes at 6,001-8,000 feet and 35 minutes at 8,001-10,000 feet. Enjoy!

The UC Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County are a great resource for answers to your food safety and preserving questions. Leave a message at (530) 621-5506 or email edmfp@ucanr.edu. For more information about the program, events and recipes visit ucanr.edu/edmfp. Sign up to receive our eNewsletter at ucanr.org/mfpcsenews/. The group is also on Facebook (UCCE Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County).

to Highway 28. Take Highway 28 to Highway 431 east just past Incline Village. Take NV 431 east to the Mount Rose/Tahoe Rim Trail Trailhead.

From Interstate 80 East take Highway 267 south to 28 east. Take 28 east to NV 431 to the trailhead.

Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. You can follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

The Public Square

Employment

Friends and family to celebrate Rodney Bland

Special to the Mountain Democrat

Alife well lived. That’s how the friends and family of Rodney Earle Bland would describe him. A resident of Coloma until he died late last year following a long illness, Rodney was a wellknown personality in El Dorado County and beyond. Often called a “human time machine,” his weathered face and personality evoked the hard-scrabble look and life of California’s early pioneers and settlers and especially of those who made their homes in El Dorado County.

The public is invited to a celebration of life held in Rodney’s honor and hosted by his family, 2-4 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at the Coloma Grange Hall.

Rodney entered this world in 1948, the second oldest of four children born to Jeanne Marie and Robert Bland in Sacramento near Sutter’s Fort. His family moved to Placerville in 1952 where he attended public schools and graduated from El Dorado High School in 1966. He admitted to a rather rowdy youth, building motorcycles (subsequently crashing them and breaking both of his arms), drinking heavily and roaming the Georgetown Divide from Uncle Tom’s Cabin to Rock Creek and the Bret Harte Hotel, which his grandfather helped build.

Always available to lend a helping hand, his brother Greg recounts an instance where Rodney assisted a friend to pull down a tree, which ultimately fell onto the cab of Rodney’s own truck, crushing it along with several bones in Rodney’s neck.

Following his service in the Navy as a cook on the vessel USS Forester stationed in Vietnam, Rodney held secular employment as a logger, sawmill worker, heavy equipment operator, truck driver and retail sales clerk. A man of many talents, he was also a historical interpreter, dancer, horticulturist and metal sculptor.

However, it was a commercial for Ford Explorer in 1999 that brought him to the attention of casting agents and producers, launching his media career and bringing him unexpected fame with several movie roles, and subsequent membership in the Screen Actors Guild. Rodney eventually became known as

PLACERVILLE-$1.00 a square foot, includes utilities, 200sf –720sf

Development Services Technician I/II

Salary: I: $30.02–$36.49; II: $33.17–$40.32

FFD: Open until filled.

First review of applications on April 6, 2023. The Human Resources Department is currently accepting applications for the position of a Development Services Technician I/II for an eligibility list to fill current and future positions in Engineering.

El Dorado Irrigation District is seeking: 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

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

Pati Kenney UC Master Food Preserver of El Dorado County

RODNEY BLAND