Mountain Democrat, Friday, April 5, 2024

Eric Jaramishian

El Dorado County job, housing studies predict upward trends

writer New projections for housing and jobs were approved for the West Slope of the El Dorado County, giving Department of Transportation sta more insight on how to update the county’s Tra c Impact Fee program. In a previous discussion, the Board of Supervisors endorsed BAE Urban Economics estimations of 8,332 new housing units to be built on the West Slope and 5,485 new jobs created, not including the city of Placerville, by 2045. BAE was hired by the county to conduct a study on the growth projections in preparation for the TIF program overhaul, which funds transportation improvements to accommodate residential and employment growth.

“That is the guess as to where we would be about 22 years from now,” said Matt Kowta, managing principal for BAE Urban.

The estimates for housing and employment demand are based on the board-endorsed growth rates as well as historical growth patterns and available development capacity, according to BAE

S

by his coworkers for his last day, John Farrington heads to the back room of the

Mart for one last time as an employee Friday afternoon. After more than 47 years working in the Placerville grocery store, Farrington decided he was ready to retire. “47 years, John? Are you kidding?” calls out one shopper as Farrington passes by, saying hello. Another customer, picking through pork and poultry at the meat section, takes a moment to thank Farrington “for all he’s done for me over the years.”

Coworkers flocked to the back room for Farrington’s send-o party, complete with pizza, cake and the obligatory group photo as they said goodbye to a community fixture.

Urban Economics representatives.

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“This man has forgotten more than I will ever know about the grocery business,” said Je rey Pryor, who has himself been at the Placerville store for more than two decades. Farrington’s name tag, reading “serving you since 1976,” only hints at the story of his long career. His family moved to El Dorado County from the Bay Area in 1976, when he was 18 years old. He ■

Figures show that housing demand will increase from 57,100 total housing units as of 2023 to 65,432 in 2045. The figure takes into account five

Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians

buys Sac property

Mountain Democrat sta

Calling it a landmark move, the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians has purchased land in downtown Sacramento — a 2.39-acre property at 301 Capitol Mall.

The parcel is part of the Tribe’s ancestral Nisenan homelands, according to a news release sent out by the tribe Tuesday.

“This site is located near the Tribe’s original village of Pusúune in downtown Sacramento. The land is part of the foundation of our existence. It is where our ancestors lived and flourished,” Chairwoman Regina Cuellar explains in the release. “By re-acquiring our ancestral lands, we’re reclaiming our history, our traditions and a deeper connection to our ancestors. This re-acquisition is a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of our people and solidifies our status as the original inhabitants of the Sacramento region.”

The building was previously owned by CalPERS and officials in the organization, along with an investment partner and consultant, felt the undeveloped land no longer fit the strategic goals of the pension fund’s real estate program, according to a CalPERS statement regarding the sale.

CalPERS invested in 301 Capitol Mall in 2006 with a local developer to build two high-rise residential buildings, the agency’s statement shares. The project was halted due to unfavorable economic conditions that worsened with the Great Recession.

“This sale is in the best interest of our members and our portfolio,” states CalPERS Chief Executive Officer Marcie Frost. “While we would

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Photo by Fred Greaves / California Department of Water Resources California Department of Water Resources Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit water engineers Andy Reising, right,

at

Alvin de Haas

July 24, 1944 – March 11, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Alvin Carl de Haas, a beloved member of our community, who departed this life on March 11th, 2024. Alvin proudly served our country in the Vietnam War before returning home to pursue higher education at Chico State University. His dedication to service led him to join a fire crew for the U.S. Forest Service, where he eventually became a vital part of the Camino Forest Service, overseeing the seedling production process until his retirement in 1997.

During his lifetime, Alvin found joy in family and community. He married the love of his life, Carol Louise Winje, and together, they raised three children: Kurtis , Dayna , and Lukas Merlin. Alvin’s passion for youth sports led him to spend countless hours coaching children in the area, particularly in soccer, leaving a lasting impact on many young lives. Some of the best years of his life were when he was able to spend the winter with his Bashford Family, visiting, helping others, and playing music.

Alvin is survived by his older brothers, Mervin de Haas and Steven de Haas, his sister-in-law’s Martha de Haas and Betty Sederquist, his children Kurtis, Dayna, and Lukas, his grandchildren Josiah Petanovich and Liam de Haas, his son-inlaw Dennis Cambron, his daughter-in-law Hannan de Haas, and his cherished dog, Heidy. He also leaves behind ten nieces and nephews, whom he regarded as his own children: Scott, Kerie, Kathy, Sheryl, Michael, Zev, Kimberlee, LaNaya, Kristi, and Sarah.

Alvin is preceded in death by his parents, Manfred and Pearl de Haas, the love of his life, Carol Louise de Haas, his father-in-law Merlin (Buzz) Winje, and mother-in-law Florence Winje. Born in Oakland, California, on July 24, 1944, Alvin made El Dorado County his home at the age of five. Together with Carol, he built a home in Lotus in 1979, where he resided until his passing.

Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit and impact on our lives will endure forever in our hearts. Rest in peace, Alvin Carl de Haas. You will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.

His services will be at the Gold Trail Grange in Coloma, April 27th, 2024, 11 A.M. to 2 P.M.

This will be a potluck. Please bring your favorite dish.

Gary William Johnson

July 8, 1948 – Feb. 24, 2024

Gary William Johnson, son, brother, grandson, husband, dad, friend, best friend, artist, animal lover (yes, even cats), war veteran, world traveler and one charming individual.

On July 8th, 1948, at 7:18pm, the world met Gary. Born to William and Evelyn Johnson, and brother to Scott. His first-grade teacher said of Gary, “He likes to talk and play a lot”. If she only knew.

School on the south side of Chicago ended quickly for Gary, when in 1966 he enlisted in the Air Force and headed to Vietnam. A young man in a war finding joy in training military dogs, he survived, and began a more dangerous journey — marriage and fatherhood. More schooling followed later in life — graphic design at the California College of Arts and Crafts gave him the freedom of creation, while Werner Trucking School gave him the freedom of the open road.

Finding love many times, Gary was father to Scott and stepfather to Chris, imparting wisdom such as, “Think about it”. A 25-year union with wife, Kathy Jennings, punctuated the last years of his life. It was she who held him as Gary passed peacefully on February 24th, 2024. Always a friend, those who met Gary knew him for life. And those lives were enriched - even when they had to look for it. Grandpa Rocco and Uncle Bud would be proud.

Gary Johnson. The Man. The Myth. The Legend. Never goodbye, just “Asta”. We love you, Gary.

Love Your Peaks is a fundraising series promoting breast cancer awareness at resorts nationwide, where participants can join the organization at partnering resorts to fundraise, ride/ski and advocate for breast cancer awareness. Nonprofit sta looks forward to hitting the slopes of Sierra-at-Tahoe and spreading the mission of early detection plus a healthy, active lifestyle as the best means of breast cancer prevention.

The Love Your Peaks Sierra-at-Tahoe stop will include a Pink Poker Run, tribute ride, silent auction, ra es, demos, live music and more.

The Pink Poker Run is an interactive activity where participants of all ages and abilities visit various checkpoints around the mountain to collect pink playing cards. Those with the three best poker hands will win B4BC partner prizes, with individuals representing in their best pink outfits and attitudes being awarded “bonus cards.” It’s a fun, immersive experience that takes participants on a mountain adventure while advocating for breast cancer awareness.

To participate in Love Your Peaks, individuals or teams just have to register, fundraise, ride/ski and win. The link to register and fundraise can be found at b4bc.org/love-your-peaks. A $25 donation is required for registration, but the more fundraised, the higher the incentives, including the chance to win some incredible partner products from brands such as Suja Organic, YETI, The North Face, Sun Bum, Pura Vida and more.

B4BC will also host a weekly virtual photo contest, opening the series to virtual participants. To enter, post on Instagram using the hashtag #loveyourpeaks and tag @b4bc. The winner will receive a prize pack from B4BC partners and individuals must be registered to win.

Following the Sierra-at-Tahoe event, The Love Your Peaks series will be making its last stop at Mammoth Mountain in May and encourages people to come out, do a winter activity they love and support breast cancer prevention and awareness.

To keep up with B4BC, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

DON’T MISS

TOOL TIME

South Lake Tahoe police investigating substitute employee

As a proactive step, LTUSD administrators immediately removed the temporary sta member from substituting as they await the results of the investigation.

“Ensuring the safety and well-being of our students is our top priority. It is our district’s steadfast commitment to create a secure environment for all students. LTUSD will take proactive measures to reinforce appropriate sta -to-student interactions and will work closely with our students to help them recognize and report any inappropriate communications from adults,” the email states.

“All involved students’ families have been contacted by authorities and district administration. We are working closely with the Detective Division at SLTPD,” an email from the district states. Parents are directed to reach out to SLTPD directly if they have any questions or concerns. Anyone with further information about this case please email the Detective Division at crimetips@cityslt.us. This matter is currently under investigation.

Snow survey Continued from A1

the peak snowpack for the season and marks the transition to spring snowmelt into the state’s rivers and reservoirs.

DWR’s electronic readings from 130 stations placed throughout the state indicate that the statewide snowpack’s snow water equivalent is 28.6 inches, or 110% of the April 1 average, a significant improvement from just 28% of average on Jan. 1.

The focus now shifts to forecasting spring snowmelt runo and capturing as much of that water as possible for future use.

“It’s great news that the snowpack was able to catch up in March from a dry start this year. This water year shows once again how our climate is shifting and how we can swing from dry to wet conditions within a season,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “These swings make it crucial to maintain conservation while managing the runo . Variable climate conditions could result in less water runo into our reservoirs. 100% snowpack does not mean 100% runo . Capturing and storing what we can in wetter years for drier times remains a key priority.”

California’s reservoirs remain in good shape thanks to state e orts to capture and store as much water as possible from record storms in 2023 and again this season. The State Water Project has increased storage by 700,000 acre-feet at Lake Oroville and by 154,000 acre-feet at San Luis Reservoir since Jan. 1. Statewide, reservoir levels currently stand at 116% of average.

However, there are challenges ahead as the spring runo begins. The dry start to the year, soot and ash from burn scars that accelerates snowmelt and other factors may result in below average spring runo which can impact water availability.

Recently, the State Water Project increased its forecasted allocation of water supplies for the year to 30%, up from an initial 10%, due to the storms in February and March. However, uncertainty about the spring runo and ongoing pumping restrictions to protect threatened and endangered species in the Delta has impacted that allocation forecast.

“California has had two years of relatively positive water conditions, but that is no reason to let our guard down now,” said Dr. Michael

Anderson, state climatologist with DWR. “With three record-setting multi-year droughts in the last 15 years and warmer temperatures, a well above average snowpack is needed to reach average runo . The wild swings from dry to wet that make up today’s water years make it important to maintain conservation while managing the runo we do receive. Our water years moving forward will see more extreme dry times interrupted by very wet periods like we saw this winter.”

That need to adapt to a changing climate is why Gov. Gavin Newsom joined the recent snow survey at Phillips Station to announce the release of the California Water Plan Update 2023. The Water Plan Update sets forth a vision for all Californians to benefit from water resources that are sustainable, resilient to climate change and achieves equity for all communities and benefits the environment. Check out the Water Plan Update to learn more about how the plan focuses on key issues including addressing climate urgency, strengthening watershed resilience and achieving equity in water management.

As part of the state’s climate adaptation e orts, over the past two years California has worked with local groundwater agencies and state and federal partners to capture as much water as possible to prepare for the next drought. In 2023, more than 1.2 million acre-feet of groundwater recharge was permitted by state agencies, with nearly 400,000 acrefeet of flood water recharged using the Executive Orders issued by Newsom.

On average, the Sierra snowpack supplies about 30% of California’s water needs. Its natural ability to store water is why the Sierra snowpack is often referred to as California’s “frozen reservoir.” Data from these snow surveys and forecasts produced by DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit are important factors in determining how DWR provides water to 27 million Californians and manages the state’s water resources.

California Matters

When Newsom gives his State of the State, he should be candid

GWhile Newsom was sweating out the vote count on Proposition 1, which prevailed by fewer than 30,000 votes, the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics was reporting that in February that California recorded the nation’s highest unemployment rate, with 5.3% of its labor force being jobless.

That unhappy statistic reflected a growing consensus that while the rest of the nation is enjoying a fairly vigorous recovery from the e ects of the COVID-19 pandemic, California is lagging behind.

It’s a major factor in the state’s having an immense budget deficit, one that could last for years.

Letters to the Editor

Israel’s survival

EDITOR:

The Israel-Hamas war has passed its sixmonth point. The Biden administration no longer supports Israel and has voted with the UN to demand Israel stop fighting Hamas. Progressives all over the world are rioting demanding the destruction of Israel. Democrat leaders in the U.S. openly support Hamas and blame Israel for the war.

While much of the nation is enjoying a vigorous economic recovery from the COVID19 pandemic, California is falling behind with scant job growth.

Newsom’s budget planners and the Legislature’s budget analyst, Gabe Petek, both see annual deficits in the $30 billion range for the remainder of Newsom’s governorship. “California entered a revenue and economic downturn last fiscal year,” Petek said in his analysis of Newsom’s 2024-25 budget. “State tax revenues fell 20%. The number of unemployed workers in California increased by 200,000. A key question for this budget is: to what extent and for how long will this downturn persist? The governor’s budget assumes a quick return to growth, projecting an 8% increase in tax revenues in the current fiscal year. While possible, we think this assumption is optimistic. Halfway through the current year, we are yet to see clear signs of such a rebound.”

Here is the reality. The war would end today if the Palestinians released the 150 hostages it took during its bloody Oct. 7 attack on helpless innocent civilians. The war would end today if Hamas surrendered. Palestinians could end the war today if they stopped supporting Hamas. Rockets, supplied by Iran are still being fired out of Gaza striking Israel today. The war would end today if the Palestinians acknowledged Israel’s right to exist.

The Pro-Hamas-Anti-Israel, from the river to the sea folks here in the U.S. know that if Israel simply pulled out of Gaza today then Hamas, Iran and all the Muslim zealot terrorist organizations have won and they can go on with their proficiency for the destruction of Jews from around the world. The fact is that the UN created this mess. I have seen nothing from the UN that shows it wants peace in the Middle East. And I don’t understand how the U.S. can turn its back on Israel.

I think the U.S. should mind its own business. The U.S. is a failure at being the world’s police. Israel is at war for its survival against an ideology. It is capable and willing to defend itself. If the U.S. is not willing to completely acknowledge Israel’s rights then the least we can do is not side with Hamas.

KEN STEERS Cameron Park

Selling Bibles

EDITOR:

It is a new low even for Mr. Trump. His latest scam is selling God Bless America Bibles for $60 each. Let’s be clear, this is not to raise

money for charity or some Christian ministry; this is money that will go directly into his pocket to pay his legal bills and court fines.

What exactly will this pay for? It will pay for his defense in the case involving hush money he paid to a porn star with whom he had an a air at the time his wife had given birth to Baron. It will pay for his defense in his cases involving Jan. 6 and his inciting of violence to stop the peaceful transfer of power. It will pay for his defense in the case involving the hiding of thousands of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago. It will pay for his campaign and rallies at which he incites violence and pushes his racist, divisive and hateful worldview.

Last week was Holy Week for most Christians — the week when Christians focus on the message of Jesus; that being kindness, compassion and doing good. How ironic that Mr. Trump, in his ongoing corruption of the Christian message, would pick this week to grift his followers once again to pay for his indiscretions, misdeeds and criminal activity by selling Bibles.

The Democratic Party is not perfect and wouldn’t it be nice if President Biden was 15 years younger? Do I always agree with President Biden? No. However, the choice could not be more clear. President Biden has a 50-year history of fighting for American values and improving the lives of middle and low-income Americans. People who know him say that he is a good and decent man.

Then there is Mr. Trump. He has enriched himself by grift, fraud and criminal activity. He idolizes authoritarian leaders and is a dictator wannabe. His speeches are filled with racism, divisiveness, and hate. He promotes political violence. He has no moral compass and has corrupted the Christian message. Finally, he tried to end our democracy by inciting his followers to invade the Capitol to prevent the peaceful transfer of power. The choice is ours to make.

SCOTT TAYLOR Placerville

In the most powerful, advanced country in the world, how is it that many parents, including myself, still have this lingering question in the back of our minds: “Will my child be safe at school today?” Threats made toward schools, whether through words or writing, have been on the rise nationally in recent years. The FBI recorded a whopping 60% increase in the number of school threats across the U.S. in 2022. Over the past year there were at least nine school threats made across Senate District 4 in over half the counties I represent, including Amador, El Dorado, Inyo, Madera, Merced and Stanislaus counties.

An alarming incident unfolded in November 2023 when Jason Vassar — a Belleview Elementary School District trustee in Tuolumne County — now under ongoing litigation for a quo warranto removal — was found with a chilling 90-plus-page manifesto detailing himself as “an executioner.” His manifesto was split

into three parts. One particularly disturbing statement read, “I was kind of shocked to read in Revelations that I was going to be the executioner for God and kill your children.”

It is appalling to me that any individual with such thoughts would serve in public o ce, let alone step foot on school campus. In several incidents across my district, there were no criminal charges filed against the person making threats.

While we are beyond fortunate Vassar had not acted on his demented urge, as the matter stands now, there is no criminal case against him; the Tuolumne County District Attorney’s O ce states there is no crime to charge him with.

This isn’t just a Senate District 4 issue. It spans across the state. In the city of Davis in Yolo County the issue of school threats has created a high level of fear and anxiety among some teachers, students and parents. One teacher I spoke with who preferred to remain anonymous for safety reasons told me there have been at least half a

Zero tolerance for threats made against our schools

… we need to implement stricter laws to hold individuals with nefarious intentions accountable; we cannot a ord to wait for a tragedy to occur before deciding it is the right time to address safety in schools and places of worship.

dozen threats made near or at North Davis Elementary since fall 2023; she has been teaching there for the past four years. She specifically recalled an incident during the first few weeks of the school year, when a bomb threat sent the school into a lockdown.

“For 70 minutes we were trying to calm and reassure 180 kids inside the multi-purpose room,” the teacher recounted.

She added that these incidents not only create feelings of anger, apprehension, fear and panic, but they promote an unhealthy learning environment for students and teachers.

“Our goal as teachers is to keep our kids safe both mentally and physically. If students aren’t feeling safe, how can we expect them to excel?” the teacher said.

This very incident still haunts another North Davis Elementary mother. She has also requested to remain anonymous, fearing for the

safety of her family.

“I could hear the sirens go o and I didn’t know where my 6-year-old son was. I thought, is there an active shooter? Do I go get my son? Do I wait outside the school or should I wait for administrators to call me?” the mother told me. She later learned that her son was huddled underneath his desk for over an hour — an experience that left him traumatized. His mother says he recently began going to therapy for his anxiety.

“He went from loving school to now, not wanting to go to school sometimes,” the mother added.

There was no arrest made in this particular incident. An act of terror without consequences is just unacceptable.

My Senate Bill 796 would make it a serious crime for anyone to make a threat toward a school or a place

Walters Continued from A4

In January, when the labor bureau conducted its annual revision of employment data, replacing previous estimates with hard numbers, it found that California’s picture was markedly darker than had been reported earlier.

For example, it had estimated that in the first half of 2023 the state had gained an average of 32,500 jobs each month, but in January revised that to an average loss of 400 jobs per month.

The Los Angeles Times performed its own analysis of California’s employment situation, reporting that between September 2022 and

September ’23, the state’s jobs grew by a scant .15%, the lowest level of any state. Its employment growth was a tiny fraction of expansion in Texas and Florida, two states that Newsom often depicts as backward.

Californians know that something isn’t right. A recent poll by the Public Policy Institute of California found that “majorities of Californians think the state is headed in the wrong direction and predict bad economic times for the state economy in the next 12 months.”

The same poll also found that Newsom’s approval rating among

Californians had dropped to 46%, which may partially explain why his ballot measure fared so poorly despite spending $15 million on the campaign.

California’s sluggish economy is also a factor in the state’s recent population losses, driven mostly by an outflow of people to other states with more vibrant economic prospects and lower living costs. Texas is the No. 1 destination for ex-Californians. “About one in four lower-income residents say that the lack of wellpaying jobs in their region is making them seriously consider moving out of

the state,” the PPIC poll found.

When he finally delivers his State of the State address, Newsom will be tempted to ignore these troubling signs and depict a state that’s a global trendsetter, but such a head-in-thesand attitude will erode his standing among Californians even more.

The time for bragging has passed. The time for humility and candor has arrived.

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

State Sen. Marie Alvarado -Gil represents the 4th District, covering the counties of Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Alpine, Calaveras, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Stanislaus, Madera, Merced, Mono, Nevada and Inyo. Alvarado-Gil Continued from A4

of worship, whether or not there is intent to carry out the threat. The incident involving Vassar is a prime example for why we need to implement stricter laws to hold individuals with nefarious intentions accountable; we cannot afford to wait for a tragedy to occur before deciding it is the right time to address safety in schools and places of worship.

In December, I met with Tuolumne County’s Superintendent of Schools Zack Abernathy to discuss the incident involving Vassar. Our thoughtful conversation on school safety has led to both our teams working collectively to organize a town hall in Tuolumne County in the coming months to hear from constituents, law enforcement and faithbased organizations. By engaging with the greater community, we can share valuable

information that can shape the implementation of appropriate measures to ensure the highest level of safety across our community.

We must address this issue before it is too late. SB 796 will create the legal framework law enforcement needs to prosecute those who make threats to the fullest extent of the law. By holding these individuals accountable, SB 796 can also act as a deterrent to reduce the occurrence of threats, creating a safer environment for our children to learn, and our families to worship without fear of harm.

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

Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm.

Farrington

Continued from A1

took a job as a box boy for Lucky Supermarket, starting his first day on the job April 26, 1976. Over the years he moved from position to position — a résumé that includes apprentice clerk, night crew clerk, milk guy and front end checker — while the store changed names from Lucky to Albertsen’s to Save Mart. For some residents, Farrington’s presence was a fundamental part of their grocery shopping experience.

“I’ve seen children grow up to be mothers of children that now shop here,” Farrington explained. “Some people just come by to shop for little things every other day and, of course, we’ve gotten to know each other.”

Farrington has seen the business change, both in terms of two store remodels and how business is done. Shoppers, he said, are more likely to do multiple small trips throughout the

Property purchase

week instead of one large trip meant to last weeks. Other elements of how business is done have changed, too; looking back at a list of stories from his years at the store, he recounted a time a store manager chased down a would-be alcohol thief, busting the back window of the getaway car in the process.

“You definitely wouldn’t see something like that these days,” Farrington noted with a chuckle.

Farrington said he looks forward to his retirement, which will give him time to visit grandkids, travel with his wife and spend more time doing the things he’d like to do. “I’m not sure what those things are; I’ll just have to figure that out later,” he joked.

As he walked back to his register for a picture, Farrington took another look at the store and said, “It’s going to be weird to leave here.”

Continued from A1

have taken pride in the successful development of 301 Capitol Mall, we have a fiduciary duty to our members and selling is the right decision.”

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians is a federally recognized Indian tribe located near Placerville. The Tribe was first recognized in 1916 when a census was conducted of Indians living in Sacramento and Verona. The Tribe was then known as the SacramentoVerona Band of Homeless Indians. In 1920 the federal government relocated the Sacramento-Verona Band to a parcel of land now known as the Shingle Springs Rancheria.

a return to the Tribe’s ancestral roots but also reinforces our commitment to fostering strong, positive relationships with the Sacramento community. In celebrating this historic purchase, we are reminded of the importance of honoring our past while continuing to build a future that reflects our shared values and aspirations,” Cuellar adds in the release.

“The purchase not only symbolizes

The Tribe has no immediate plans for the site. The property is bounded by Capitol Mall to the south, L Street to the north and 3rd and 4th streets to the west and east. The property is zoned C-3 SPD (central business district).

Trends

Continued from A1

“You can have some years of relatively high growth and you can have some years with no growth at all or very little, but over time you end up with an average that is something like .62%,” Kowta told the board when presenting his findings.

The projections were approved via a board vote of 3-1, with District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin casting a “no” vote. District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine was absent from the meeting.

Though the estimations are speculatory, and could change though land use rezoning or a General Plan amendment, Parlin took issue with the allocation of housing demand figures in the Shingle Springs area which jump from 17 in 2025 to more than 2,000 in 2045.

“The roads in Shingle Springs are not built to accommodate much,”

Parlin said. “I get that it is zoned, but just because it says something is going to go there doesn’t mean it can realistically go there, and I think that is a part of our problem.”

DOT staff emphasised that developments could happen further west into the county which would decrease capacity demand in the Shingle Springs area.

“Until that happens though, we cannot assume that those additional units will be created,” said Zach Oates, a civil engineer for DOT.

Oates told the board the projections would be inserted into the county’s traffic demand model, which identifies roadway segments and levels of service.

“That’s how we identify the projects that go into the fee program into the Capital Improvement Project that we base the fee schedule off of,” Oates said. “When we run that model and we see this increased housing demand in Shingle Springs ... in all likelihood there will be some new projects identified to handle the increases.”

DOT said it will come back in a few years to take another look at growth projections as projects are built and move down the development pipeline.

COMICS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

teams up with EDH Soccer Club

SACRAMENTO — As Republic

FC continues its 2024 season, the club and El Dorado Hills Soccer Club are partnering to advance player development at various levels of youth soccer. EDHSC has signed on to become a youth club partner for the next three years, joining Republic FC in growing the game and fostering a love for soccer across Northern California.

As an official Youth Club Partner, EDHSC will receive valuable resources provided by Republic FC’s Youth Programs staff. In addition to programming and coaching opportunities for players at the recreational level, the partnership will focus on strengthening the player pathway for those in EDHSC’s Comp Program, where coaches and players will receive advanced training experiences, as well as exposure to

Republic FC’s Youth Academy. Republic FC will also organize a special Regional Development Program in El Dorado Hills each year. RDP is Republic FC’s top youth development program, offering opportunities for players to grow their skills and prepare for more competitive soccer.

EDHSC President Trevor Holton, Sporting Director Paul Buckle and Technical Director Glenn Shepherd recently sat down to talk about the partnership, its goals for players and growing the game across the Sacramento region.

Q & A

What makes you excited about partnering with Republic FC?

PB: To have El Dorado Hills Soccer Club affiliated with Republic FC is just so exciting. Republic FC has

n See PARTNERSHIP, page A8

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ll give a stellar performance of sorts. As informal as it may be, it’s complex work that engages your talent and has positive social repercussions. Just be sure to keep reading the room and keep your hand on the “volume” knob.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). A social mood takes hold and you have a talent for talking to anyone about anything. People open up to you because they sense you’re nonjudgmental. Most of the day’s interactions will leave all feeling lighter and brighter.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You’re a lifelong learner and the world is your classroom. Actual classrooms, however, may feel too confining. You’ll get hooked into a subject and many avenues of information and hands-on learning will open to you.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). What if your future was like today, multiplied many times forward? How does that prospect appeal to you? Use the idea as a guiding principle and make the adjustments that will favorably color your tomorrows.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Genuinely curious, you’ll gain a greater understanding of someone’s world and still want to know more. Share about yourself, too. As trust builds, so will the potential for the relationship.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You have a wide array of talents to offer and will be interested in one who is equally gifted. You may flirt without realizing it. Others will though, so you’d do well to be careful how you wield that charm.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You feel mysteriously connected to place you’ve never been before. The mere idea of it lights you up. When you finally go there, you’ll meet people who give you an immediate feeling of belonging.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Everyone knows the phoenix wasn’t born from an egg. Some say its mother is a flame, its father the grim reaper, but the phoenix knows that death and fire were but midwives in the process of birthing oneself.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). An objective witness, you’ll take in your surroundings and observe the unfolding plot without personalizing the action. You’ll see how things really are and you’ll choose your path from a place of clarity.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). When we are isolated, it can seem like no one else feels like we do. Of course it’s not the case. As unique as you are, you’re not inventing new feelings for humans and you can rest assured knowing you are definitely not alone.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Everyone grows up with certain patterns in their childhood that will feel familiar and be repeated in adulthood. For whatever reason, if you want to break out of the pattern, today gives you the opportunity and tools.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Though the future is uncertain, you’re an excellent predictor of it, especially when it comes to your loved ones. You can guess how a loved one will behave and you’ll be right. Learning people well will be rewarding on many levels.

Grace Ogata-Beutler Sacramento Republic FC Communications Manager

Steele pins down silver medal

Special to the Mountain Democrat

Steele Divinagracia of El Dorado Hills placed second at the 18th annual California Middle School Girls Wrestling State Championship. She wrestles in the 89-pound division.

The tournament was held March 30 in Ukiah with more than 250 female wrestlers participating, including many state-ranked wrestlers in sixth through eighth grade. Steele, a seventh-grader at Rolling Hills Middle School, had a wonderful wrestling season, placing in the top three at most competitions.

Partnership

“I learn about who I am and what I can be through the losses more than the wins,” she shared. “Wrestling is really fun … especially when you win.”

Steele trains with her dad, Coach Lawrence Divinagracia, and her Sierra Sabres Wrestling Club in Shingle Springs. She also plays Comp Soccer with USA STARS and runs track at Rolling Hills. “Unfortunately Rolling Hills Middle School has no wrestling team but hopefully they will have one next year,” Steele said.

Girls wrestling is the No. 1 fastest growing sport nationwide, according to the National Wrestling Coaches Association.

Continued from A7

established itself as such a successful club on and off the field, and to align ourselves with the organization in this way is just fantastic.

for our coaches, it will help us better identify a clear mission in what our ultimate goal is for our players.

April 26, 2024

Friday April 1, 2022 Friday

El Dorado County Fair & Event Center 100 Placerville Dr., Placerville

El Dorado County Fair & 5:00 – 9:00 pm

The 8th Annual Stand Up For MORE Comedy Night will be in partnership with the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce to o er wonderful entertainment along with a delicious meal catered by John Sanders. Shake o the stress of the week with this hilarious, fundraising showcase. Our Headliner, the hilarious Dennis Blair, who has been described as a Renaissance man. He is an accomplished screenwriter, award-winning songwriter, and comedic actor. Yet he is probably best known for the caustic observations and musical satires of his live comedy performances. Also featured is the amazingly talented Derrick Leonard, whose laser-sharp humor will have you in stitches!

Admission: $60 per person; $100 per couple

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

GS: It makes sense for us to build a pathway with the top soccer organization in our area, so to formalize this relationship is just the first step in helping us support our players’ development the best we can. That’s what our mission is — as coaches, as directors — to try to graduate our elite players to professional ranks. So partnering with Republic FC will help us begin to make that pathway easier to understand and more accessible than it ever has been for our players and their families.

TH: Our players and families love Republic FC, love going to their games, so this partnership fosters that enjoyment of soccer for people at all levels. We are all excited about this because there are going to be so many opportunities that come up over the next few years, not only for our players and coaches, but for the organization as a whole.

How does the partnership benefit players in El Dorado Hills?

GS: For the players in our Comp Program, this gives them a kind of map, a ladder, to use to identify what they need to do within their own game to reach the next level. And

PB: The biggest thing I am looking forward to showing everyone in our organization is what the youth development pathway looks like at the professional level. It brought me so many benefits as a player, and later on as a coach, and now our members, players, and coaches are going to get an opportunity to experience it. We want to show the community how serious we are about our club, and we want to keep raising the bar. And there’s no better club to do this with than Sacramento Republic.

How do you hope to help grow the game in the Sacramento region?

TH: I think that our region is saturated with good clubs and good players, and I think there are so many doors that can open if we collaborate to develop our players and grow the game. Why can’t we work together?

Through this partnership with Republic FC, we want to show that we want to collaborate with the best clubs in the area, and that we are willing to team up with other organizations to set our players for success — and that we can do it in a way that still allows us to stay true our identity. So I think this relationship can serve as a model of how clubs can better work together to develop top players.

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Photo courtesy of Lawrence Divinagracia Steele Divinagracia is all smiles on the No. 2 podium after taking second place in her division at California Middle School Girls Wrestling State Championship.

Mountain Democrat n mtdemocrat.com

IN THE KNOW

April 5

Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery hosts Friday Night Flights, 3-8 p.m. featuring great food and wine parings. For more information call 9530) 622-7221.

Road Crew will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/ live-music.

Coffis Brothers will perform at 8 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Falcon’s Eye Theatre at Folsom Lake College presents “Cabaret,” April 5-14 at Harris Center for the Arts, 10 College Parkway in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter. net or call (916) 608-6888.

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

April 6

The Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 512 invites the public to its “famous pancake breakfast,” 8-11 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month, April through October, at the Placerville Airport, 3501 Airport Road. Enjoy airplanes on display, breakfast, old cars, old friends and the Placerville airport. Proceeds go to the Sunny Atkin Scholarship Fund for students of aeronautical related studies.

UCCE Master Gardeners of El

Art Art

Art

hangs by a thread at the government center

Sylvia Coleman Placerville Arts Association

The two weeks of every year that members of Placerville Arts Association look forward to most are the Spring and Fall Member Art Shows at the enchanting venue of the El Dorado County Government Center.

April 8-12, visitors will have the chance to admire 2D art on the walls and 3D fine artworks on display — exceptional community fine art created by fellow foothill dwellers. The free show can be enjoyed 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. PAA artists and greeters will be on site to answer questions, show guests around and assist in the purchase of an artwork.

Yes, the fabulous and one-of-a-kind art pieces can be purchased. There will be a reception 3-4 p.m. on Friday; after which the show will be taken down. As a cherry on top, all artworks are judged and awards are given. The show will be judged by “media” and there will be multiple awards given in each category, as well as a Best of Show award. Visitors to the show will have an opportunity to vote for the People’s Choice Award. PAA is excited to have Cherie Hacker as this year’s judge. he’s not a stranger to El Dorado County — spending 20 years in the community where she raised two daughters, participated in the art scene and worked for Carol Mathis’ Friday House Gallery in Placerville. As a resident artist with the El Dorado Arts Council, Hacker taught in schools and at community events. She continues to teach at Sugarloaf Fine Arts Camp. Hacker’s work is exhibited and collected nationally and in Canada, the UK and Ireland. A multidisciplinary

artist, she creates and curates at E Street Gallery and Studios in Sacramento. She enjoys a long career of teaching art to all ages and in many situations. Visit her Facebook page at facebook.com/CherieHackerArt.

One of PAA’s missions is stimulating public interest in original art through a variety of visual arts events like this member show. PAA members aren’t just satisfied with creating art in their studios. They want to spread the joy and wonder of art around in as many places as possible. For more information visit placervillearts.com or check out PAA’s Facebook page, facebook.com/ PlacervilleArtsAssociation. “Oreo,”

Shrek’s adventure takes a turn onto Pondo’s stage

Everyone’s favorite, anti-social, grumpy and sarcastic ogre pays a visit to the Ponderosa High School stage this April for a fun musical extravaganza in “Shrek, The Musical.”

Shrek, played by Hudson Lauer, and his sidekick, the wisecracking Donkey, played by David Seeley, will have everyone laughing and singing along with the rest of the cast as they take the audience on a musical journey with a soulful message about friendship, love and acceptance.

rescue Princess Fiona, who is, of course, held in a high tower, in a remote castle surrounded by a firebreathing dragon.

“This show is so much fun to be a part of, and I know that the audience will have just as much fun coming to watch it.”

— Annabelle Loge aka Princess Fiona

Shrek just wants to live his swampy lifestyle in complete solitude, or does he? A chance encounter with Donkey changes Shrek’s comfortable routine and takes him on an adventure to

Taken straight out of a page from a fairy tale, Princess Fiona has been waiting not so patiently for her knight and shining armor to whisk her away to a happily ever after. At least that was before the green ogre with a thick Scottish accent showed up. Is it possible that two people from seemingly entirely different worlds may have more in common than meets the eye? And does true love really conquer all?

Head to the Pondo stage to find out.

Hudson Lauer shared how excited he was to be cast in his role as Shrek. “I’ve always wanted to play Shrek because of his great story and the beautiful touching songs. I’m

Courtesy photo

Join Shrek (Hudson Lauer), Donkey (David Seeley) and Princess Fiona (Annabelle Loge) on a hilarious adventure when “Shrek, The Musical” opens April 11 at Ponderosa High School.

Jana Rossi Mountain Democrat corerspondent

pastel by Margaret Casner

“Koi on Blue,” acrylic by Rick Nederlof

roots

and

tradition with the innovative musical ferment of its Glasgow base. Acknowledging and respecting the origins of its musical roots whilst embracing the future with new ideas, energy and belief is a key attribute of the band. The music features electrifying fiddles, pipes, vocals and plenty of Scottish charm. Breabach musicians are Megan Henderson (fiddle, vocals, step dance), James Lindsay (double bass, vocals), Calum MacCrimmon (bagpipes, whistle, bouzouki, vocals), Conal McDonagh (bagpipes, whistle, vocals) and Ewan Robertson (guitar, vocals, cajon). They have released seven increasingly acclaimed albums and their 15-year adventure has included live performances from Sydney Opera House to Central Park. Breabach has racked

up an impressive array of accolades, including five Scots Trad Music Awards, nominations for Best Group at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and also European Album of the Year at the Songlines Music Awards.

Double bass player Lindsay talks about their latest album, “Fàs.” “In Gaelic, ‘fàs’ means growth, which rightly portrays the theme of the album that reflects regrowth and renewal in nature,” he explained.

Going beyond

Scotland and bringing this music to new audiences is what has made the band so popular. With upbeat Celtic sound and lively stage presence, Breabach has grabbed attention and created a space for Scottish Trad

music around the world. Before the evening’s show, KVMR Celtic Festival Session Stage Players will be performing in the lobby. The KVMR Celtic Festival Session Stage is known for welcoming folks across all skill levels who are interested in playing Celtic music in this most traditional way. Hosted by musicians regularly playing in public throughout northern California, the Session Stage offers a total of 10 different open sessions over the weekend of the Celtic Festival. Though they play tunes from a variety of Celtic nations, players Izzy Martin, Steve Smalley, Ethan Lewis, Cindy Crockett, and Guy Prudhomme will stick to mostly Scottish tunes for the evening’s pre-show “unplugged” performance in the Kerby lobby.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. at The Center for the Arts, 314 West Main St. in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org or call (530) 274-8384.

Railtown train ready to roll

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

JAMESTOWN — In partnership with the California State Railroad Museum Foundation, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park will present a new and expanded season of weekend excursion train rides, starting April 6-7.

The historical No. 1265 diesel engine will be in operation all weekend and excursion train ride departures for both days are scheduled for 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. New in 2024, the weekend train ride season has been extended through October to provide more opportunities for guests from near and far to enjoy the unique experience.

Weekend train ride guests will enjoy a memorable 6-mile, 45-minute round trip ride on the Sierra Railway through the picturesque Mother Lode countryside. Plus, a limited number of tickets are available to ride inside Sierra Railway caboose No. 7 that was featured in several movies and television shows, including “Little House on the Prairie.”

In addition to the train ride experiences, park visitors are encouraged to observe train crew operate the turntable at the start and end of each day. For opening weekend, vintage railroad equipment will be on display with several open to walk through, such as Sierra Railway coach cars No. 3, 5 and 6; these classic cars were featured in numerous movies and television programs including “High Noon” and “Petticoat Junction.”

Park visitors also have the opportunity to meet many local rail and museum enthusiasts who have a wealth of information to share. Representatives from the California State Railroad Museum Foundation will be available to answer questions and highlight the many benefits of joining the membership program. California State Parks staff are available to share information for those interested in learning about or joining the volunteer program. And local clubs such as the Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association are regularly on site so guests can learn more about what they offer and see their impressive displays.

Excursion trains, programs and activities continue throughout the year and visitors are encouraged to take a train ride or plan a day at the park to enjoy a tour of the historical roundhouse and shops, picnic, and/or leisurely stroll around the grounds. The park will be open daily April through October for its summer season from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for self-guided or docent-led tours along with exhibits that include interpretive signage.

Visitors are encouraged to purchase excursion train ride tickets online in advance. If still available on the day of the train ride, tickets can be purchased at the Depot Store on a first-come, firstserved basis. All paid train ride tickets include park admission and cost $23 for adults, $18 for youth ages 6-17 and are free for children 5 and younger. For those who want to ride in the Sierra Railway Caboose No. 7, ticket cost is $28 per person.

For more information about Railtown 1897’s events and activities visit railtown1897.org or call (209) 983-3953. For more information about the California State Railroad Museum Foundation visit californiarailroad.museum.

Courtesy photo

With upbeat Celtic sound and lively stage presence, Breabach has grabbed attention and created a space for Scottish Trad music around the world. The musicians perform in Grass Valley April 6.

Photo by Kelly Huston

The historical No. 1265 diesel engine is ready for passengers. The train ride season at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park opens April 6 and continues through October.

Know Continued from B1

Dorado County present Irrigation, 9 a.m. to noon at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden in Placerville. Master Gardeners will discuss the basics of home sprinkler and drip irrigation systems. Learn how to provide your plants with the water they need and reduce your water bill.

Toogood Winery in the Fair Play area hosts Burgers & Barbera, back for three weekends, April 6-7, 13-14 and 20-21. Meals are served 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call (530) 620-1910 for reservations.

The Democratic Party of El Dorado County celebrates annual essay contest winners at a luncheon at noon at the El Dorado County Office of Education, 6767 Green Valley Road, Placerville, room B-2. Tickets are available online at tinyurl. com/EssayAwards2024 or by mailing a check to Mel Chapman, 5041 Pathfinder Trail, Placerville CA 95667. For more information call (530) 621-0409.

Civil Grand Jurors’ Association of California –El Dorado County Chapter hosts a meeting about the grand jury process at the Georgetown Library at 1:30 p.m. For more information email EDCchapter.

CGJA@gmail.com or visit edcgov.us/Grandjury.

Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference hosts the annual Empty Bowls dinner, 4-7 p.m. at the Placerville Shakespeare Club. This is a family friendly event that includes live music, vendors, a dinner featuring delicious soups and fresh breads and a keepsake handmade bowl to take home as a reminder of the cause. For tickets and more information visit youthmakingadifference.org/ emptybowls.

Tiff Shiro & Hugh Hoegner will perform at 4 p.m. and Remedy at 8 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Rockin’ Souls will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

Fairytale Town in Sacramento presents Drip Drop, Hip Hop – A Journey Through the American River with Froggy, the water explorer at 10:30 a.m. For more information visit fairytaletown.org.

The Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera presents Beethoven and Greig at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento. For tickets and more information visit sacphilopera.org.

Sutter Creek Theatre presents American Mile and Sticky Stones at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.

April 7

El Dorado Western Railroad’s excursion rides resume, with train rides on the hour, 10 a.m. through 1 p.m., weather permitting. Board at the El Dorado Station April 7 & 21. Train rides at the Shingle Springs Station are planned April 14 & 28. For more information visit facebook.com/ ElDoradoWesternRailroad.

Ticket to Ride will perform at 3 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music. Placerville Preschoolers, 6556 Commerce Way in the Diamond Springs Park West Business Center,

celebrated its 65th anniversary noon to 3 p.m. The El Dorado High School Jazz Band will perform at 2 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

April 20

The Divide Women’s Club will hold its spring fundraiser at 11:30 a.m. at the Pilot Hill Grange, 1701 Highway 193, Cool. There will be a light lunch, entertainment and raffle baskets. For reservations or more information contact Carol Timmerman at (530) 906-6013 or email cgtimmerman73@gmail. com. Make reservations by April 8; there will be no refunds. Payments should be made to DWC, P.O. Box 132, Greenwood, CA 95635.

May 4

Cabaret

APRIL 5-14, 2024

Falcon’s Eye Theatre at Folsom Lake College presents Falcon's Eye Theatre brings the Broadway smash hit, Cabaret, to Stage One! In a Berlin nightclub, as the 1920's draw to a close, a Master of Ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all their troubles at the Cabaret. With the Emcee's

TISRA: Zakir Hussain, Sabir Khan, and Debopriya Chatterjee

APRIL 24, 2024

Tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain is proud to present TISRA (three) with two of India’s finest young musicians, Sabir Khan and Debopriya Chatterjee. This unique trio is comprised of tabla, sarangi (a bowed instrument said to possess the sound closest to the human voice), and bansuri (bamboo flute), a combination not often heard on the classical stage. TISRA showcases the rich folk and classical traditions of the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Punjab. This colorful mix combined with Indian classical music and the rich rhythm repertoire of Punjab makes for a compelling offering that TISRA brings to audiences in the United States.

The Cher Show –A New Musical

MAY 9-12, 2024

Superstars come and go. Cher is forever. For six straight decades, only one unstoppable force has flat-out dominated popular culture – breaking down barriers, pushing boundaries, and letting nothing and no one stand in her way. THE CHER SHOW is the Tony Award®-winning musical of her story. THE CHER SHOW is 35 smash hits, six decades of stardom, two rock-star husbands, a Grammy®, an Oscar®, an Emmy®, and enough Tony Awardwinning Bob Mackie gowns to cause a sequin shortage in New York City, all in one unabashedly fabulous new musical that will have audiences dancing in the aisles! Nick Carter quickly became an international pop superstar as the youngest member of the iconic boy band, Backstreet Boys. Since taking the world by storm in 1995, the band has sold over 130 million records. In 2002, Carter ventured into a solo career with his debut album, Now or Never, marking the beginning of a successful solo journey. Since then, Carter has released two additional solo albums I’m Taking Off in 2012, followed by All American in 2016. His 2023 single “Hurts to Love You” became his most successful track, charting in seven different countries, topping the charts in the United States, and charting number one in Canada.

Tickets available online or call the box office:

in the 1942 beloved movie “Bambi” — Donnie Dunagan, voice of Bambi; Peter Behn, voice of Thumper; and Stan Alexander, voice of Flower. Traveling from Southern California, Utah and Texas, this is the first time the three voice artists will be reunited in Sacramento at Stage Nine. Plus, the incredibly popular and talented Disney Fine Artist Michelle St. Laurent will also be at Stage Nine to debut a new painting specially created for the occasion.

Friendships: An Afternoon with the Voices of Bambi will take place in The Underground, an amazing event space just below Stage Nine’s The Vault retail store and art gallery, accessible by a specially designed spiral staircase (elevator access is also available). The special event schedule is as follows: Saturday, April 6: • 10:30 a.m. — the enchanting

and family-friendly “Bambi” movie will be shown on a screen in The Underground Vault (70 minutes in length; seating is available for first 50 guests)

•Noon to 4 p.m. — Meet & greet, photo opportunities and story sharing with special guests

•10 a.m. to 8 p.m. — Stage Nine retail stores are open

Each of the voice artists has interesting stories to share. For instance, Dunagan can share fascinating tidbits about how Walt Disney took him under his wing and all about how the iconic roles impacted their lives. He also had a distinguished military career.

The voice artists will be available to sign autographs (for a fee) and St. Laurent will be signing reproductions of her new original art for customers. She will also share stories about her love for painting Bambi, which is her favorite Disney work to paint. In addition, Stage Nine guests can take selfies in front of a specially designed photo backdrop during the occasion.

Stage Nine is located in a building known as “What Cheer House” at the corner of Front & K streets (102 K St.) at the Old Sacramento Waterfront. For more information call (916) 4473623 or visit stagenine.com.