Atribute was held last week at the Belltower in Placerville to honor El Dorado County Fire Protection District Fire Marshal/ Division Chief Lucas “Shep” Shepard, who died unexpectedly on March 14.
The community came together to share stories and mourn collectively the loss of a husband, father, son, brother and friend.
“No matter what was going on, Shep was the first guy to crack a joke and break the ice,” said El Dorado County Fire Protection District Chief Tim Cordero when he took his turn at the podium. “It was an honor to work alongside him for the years we had. I’ll cherish those memories.”
Liz and Ted Nagel, Shepard’s mother and step-father, spoke about Shep’s giving nature and the legacy he
left behind.
“Sometimes it’s scary envisioning a future without him,” said Liz. “He was such a bright light.”
She spoke about watching him grow into the man that the community knew and loved. “All my memories of him growing up, he just amazed me,” she shared. ”I didn’t make him. He was himself all along.”
She finished by thanking the community and telling those present Shepard’s light lived on in each of them.
Ted came to the mic and told the crowd, “It was an honor to have Shep as a stepson. I’m sure all of you know the feeling of missing somebody.”
Instead of saying anything further, Ted chose to share a song with the assembled crowd. “I can only imagine,” by MercyMe — a song that
■ See SHEPARD, page A5
Group seeks to recall three EDHCSD directors
Noel Stack Editor
An o cial e ort to recall El Dorado Hills Community Services District Directors Stephen Ferry, Michael Martinelli and Noelle Mattock has begun.
EDH resident Steve Gutierrez read the Notice of Intent to Recall statement during open forum at the April 10 board meeting.
“This is about restoring transparency, accountability, and responsible leadership,” states Gutierrez, Community Action Group coordinator, in a news release sent to the Mountain Democrat.
“The residents of El Dorado Hills have had enough of being ignored, misled, and overcharged while watching our resources squandered or mismanaged.”
Grounds for the recall, according to the group, are:
• Overpayment of $10 million for land valued at just $1.5 million, with another $10 million acquisition pending.
• Refusal to implement Measures Q, R and S, despite legal certification and voter approval.
• Misuse of public funds to pursue retaliatory litigation against the El Dorado County AuditorController.
• Failure to develop parks, including the $13 million Bass Lake park obligation released to a developer and ongoing neglect of the promised 30-acre Carson Creek park, despite collection
■ See RECALL, page A8
HIPPITY HOP FUN
Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
Lucas Shepard’s mother Liz Nagel spoke about watching “Shep” grow into the man that the community knew and loved at last week’s vigil honoring her son.
STEPHEN FERRY
MICHAEL MARTINELLI
NOELLE MATTOCK
Photo by Laurie Edwards
Friends Austin Panacy, 2½, of Cameron Park, left, and Zoey Souza, 3½, of Rescue eagerly checked out the surprises inside their Easter eggs. Austin had fun with a whistle while Zoey happily sampled some of the candy. The colorful plastic eggs also held toys, keychains and stickers for the children to enjoy.
Photo by Laurie Edwards
The Easter Bunny got a head start on seasonal festivities with egg hunts and other activities at El Dorado Hills Town Center and Rasmussen Park in Cameron Park last weekend. Top right, Arya Kesner, 4, left, and Katiya, 6, of Cameron Park get a hug from the Easter bunny after gathering colorful plastic eggs at the Eggstreme Egg Hunt hosted by the Cameron Park Community Services District on April 12. Emily, 5; Alisa, 7; Diana, 4; and Alisa, 3; lower left, dance to the tunes during the El Dorado Hills spring celebration. It was a celebration of all things spring at the El Dorado Hills Town Center Flower Festival, during which eager children got to fill their Easter baskets with goodies. Top left photo, Audrina, 9; Gia, 6; Mia, 6; and Melody, 6, left to right, had a great time at the April 13 event that also featured visits from the Easter Bunny, a magic show and butterfly release.
Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
ESSENTIALS
Charles (Chipper Chuck)
J.
Moberg
Oct. 25, 1939 – March 24, 2025
Bonnie Shepherd Moberg
May 9, 1980 – Feb. 26, 2025
Charles J. Moberg, (Chipper Chuck), went to his Lord, Jesus Christ, on March 24, 2025, at the age of 85. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 25, 1939, to Charles J. Moberg Sr. and Lidia P. Bame Moberg. Chuck’s parents moved to West Chicago where he attended a one room schoolhouse until high school. After graduating, Chuck joined the Navy and served for 4 years. After leaving the Navy, Chuck lived in Framingham, Massachusetts. On a business trip to California, Chuck was set up on a blind date with Donna Meeks Moberg, his wife of 49 years. They moved to Placerville, CA in 2002. Chuck leaves behind his wife Donna, children Minnette Davila, Suzanne Fitzpatrick, Scott Moberg, and James Moberg. Also, his brother James Moberg and sister Patty Brummel. Preceding Chuck in death, his son David Moberg, brother Richard Moberg and sister Rose Johnson.
Bonnie Shepherd Moberg, Chuck’s much loved daughter-in-law preceded him in death on February 26, 2025 in Virginia Beach, Virginia at the age of 44. She left behind her husband of 22 years, Scott Moberg. Bonnie and Scott met while attending Saratoga High School in CA at the ages of 15 and 16 years old. After high school they married and lived in Reno, Nevada until her husband joined the Navy and moved them to Virginia Beach, Virginia. Bonnie left behind their two children, Jack Moberg, 17 years old and Kira Moberg, 9 years old, her father Harry Shepherd and two sisters, Maryann Hudkins and Kelly Harnack. Bonnie was preceded in death by her mother Patricia Shepherd.
A Celebration of Life for Bonnie Moberg and Chuck Moberg (Chipper Chuck) will be held on April 26, at 2:00pm at Calvary Faith Pentecostal Church, 2316 State Hwy 49, Placerville, CA. Refreshments will follow the Celebration of Life at Chuck’s home next door to the Church.
Barbara J. Davidson
Oct. 18, 1937 – March 22, 2025
Barbara J. Davidson, 87, passed away peacefully in Sequim, Washington on March 22, 2025. She was born in San Francisco, CA in 1937 to Otto & Helen Kleinschmidt and was joined two years later by her beloved sister, Diane. Her family moved to Placerville, CA in 1945 and Barbara graduated from El Dorado High School in 1955. Soon after, she began a career in Accounting and later included Journalism and Property Management to her Resume. She married Phil Gifford in September of 1955 and together they raised 3 children until 1973. In 1980, she reconnected with her high school crush, Davy Davidson, during their 25th High School reunion. They married in Reno in 1982 and after living in Los Angeles they both worked and traveled the country for a Real Estate and Property Management company based in Los Angeles. They settled in Pollock Pines from 1987 to 1993 before returning to Southern California. In 1999 she and Davy bought a home in Camino, California. After Davy passed away in 2022, she moved to Sequim, Washington to live with her son and daughter-in-law. Barbara’s passions were many, and included acting in local theater groups, writing, card games (especially pinochle), family gatherings, traveling, painting, logic puzzles, stuffed bears, genealogy, sewing, quilting, knitting, flowers and more flowers, as well as sitting around the kitchen table drinking coffee and talking into the wee hours. She was preceded in death by her sister Diane, and her granddaughter Cassidi. She is survived by her 3 children, Michele, Jeff, and Annette; her two step-children, Greg and Stacey; her step-granddaughter, Sarah; her grandchildren, Brian and Shasta; her great-grandsons, Trevor and Beau; and her adored nieces and nephews, Edward, Steven, Beth, Carrie, Michael, and Paul. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 7th at 1:00 PM at the Shakespeare Club in Placerville, CA. Barbara’s laugh was a gift that everyone loved to receive.
Bernice Martha Shively
Nov. 12, 1932 – Sept. 8, 2024
Evelyn Carol Sexton
Dec. 12, 1939 – April 4, 2025
Carol was born in Waterloo, Iowa and passed away in Camino, California at the age of 85. Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Melvin Sexton, parents, Ruth (Eldridge) and Stanley McNamee, sister Mildred Ruth Holliday, brother Harold James McNamee I, and Nephew Harold James McNamee II. She is survived by her daughter Kim Pierce, Step daughter Deborah Sexton, Nieces Ann (McNamee) Stephens, Mary Sylvia (McNamee) Gardner, Jennifer (Holliday) Chatman, and Nephew Scott Holliday.
Carol moved to El Dorado County in 1974 with her husband Mel where they had a Real Estate Appraisal business until Mel’s death in 1992. Carol was a member of the El Dorado County Historical Society serving on their board and as Treasurer, a member and previous president of the Heritage Association of El Dorado County, and a member of the Shakespeare Club, singing with their choral group. Carol provided sketches for a book titled “A Glittering Pot of Gold” that shares with its readers some of the more interesting first-person narratives, stories and manuscripts gathered over the years by the El Dorado County Historical Museum volunteer sta . Carol was a very knowledgeable and passionate student of the history of El Dorado County. In lieu of flowers and in memoriam please email the family at smgardne1@yahoo.com.
“If I shouldn’t be alive When the robins come, Give the one in red cravat A memorial crumb” Emily Dickinson
LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES
PLACERVILLE CITY
COUNCIL Placerville City Hall 3101 Center St., Placerville (530) 642-5200
Mayor John Clerici jclerici@cityofplacerville.org
Vice Mayor Nicole Gotberg ngotberg@cityofplacerville.org
Ryan Carter rcarter@cityofplacerville.org Jackie Neau jneau@cityofplacerville.org David Yarbrough dyarbrough@cityofplacerville. org ElL DORADO COUNTY SUPERVISORS EDC Government Center 330 Fair Lane, Placerville
District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero (530) 621-5650
District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo (530) 621-5651
District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp (530) 621-5652
District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin (530) 621-6513
District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine (530) 621-6577 (Placerville) (530) 573-7918 (South Lake
CONTACT US
(916)
Of ce Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (530) 622-1255 / Fax: (530) 622-7894 Toll-Free from El Dorado Hills: (888) 622-1255 Chief Operating Officer T. Burt McNaughton (530) 344-5055 tbmcnaughton@mtdemocrat.net
EDITORIAL STAFF
Noel Stack Editor
530-344-5073 / nstack@mtdemocrat.net
Mimi Escabar Special Sections Editor 530-344-5070 / mescabar@mtdemocrat.net Andrew Vonderschmitt Staff writer 530-344-5058 / andrewv@mtdemocrat.net
Letty Bejarano-Carvajal Graphics Manager (530) 344-5049 / lettyb@mtdemocrat.net Click “Staff Directory” at the bottom of mtdemocrat.com for full staff directory
In Loving Memory of Bernice Martha Shively. Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, Bernice was Bunny to those who knew her well. She married her sweetheart Alvin Shively, and they shared 65 lovely years together. Bunny was preceded in death by Alvin and her son, Brian Howard Shively. She adored her family and loved the outdoors, camping, gardening, and painting. Her legacy lives on through her 4 children, 3 surviving, 1 foster daughter, 12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 6 great-greatgrandchildren. She is now in the presence of the Lord. Her Celebration of Life was held on April 10th at 1 PM at Green Valley Church in Placerville.
(916)
District O ce 4364 Town Center Blvd., Suite 313 El Dorado Hills 95762 (916) 933-8680 EL DORADO IRRIGATION DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2890 Mosquito Road, Placerville (530) 622-4513
If you would like your delivery temporarily put on hold, call our of ce at least
the rst day to be stopped.
and select “Customer Service.” MISSED
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Sacramento firefighter accused of sexual crimes
Mountain Democrat sta
El Dorado County sheri ’s detectives arrested a Sacramento firefighter accused of sexual crimes on April 9.
Adam Blankenship was taken into custody at a Sacramento Fire Department fire station and booked into the El Dorado County Jail on suspicion of multiple sexual assault related charges, including seven counts of lewd/lascivious acts with a child younger than 14, two counts of lewd/lascivious acts with a child age 14 or 15, two counts of sexual assault with a foreign object and one count each of sexual penetration by force, attempted rape, oral copulation by force, sodomy by force and rape by force, according to inmate booking information posted by the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce. The suspect is being held without bail.
An investigation into Blankenship began in March, EDSO officials shared. Based on the information and evidence gathered, detectives believe there may be additional victims who have yet to be identified. Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact Det. Macres at (530) 957-5227 or email at macresc@ edso.org.
EDSO CRIME LOG
5:13
The following information was taken from EDSO reports:
NOTE: Due to changes made by the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce to its online records, the reported age and gender of arrested people is no longer available.
March 9
3:53 a.m. Burglary was reported on Alhambra Drive in Cameron Park.
11:22 a.m. Burglary was reported on Alhambra Drive in Cameron Park.
4:47 p.m. Shots at a dwelling was reported on French Creek Road in Shingle Springs.
4:55 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a shopping center on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.
7:07 p.m. Trespassing was reported on State Highway 49 in Pilot Hill.
7:24 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Powers Drive in El Dorado Hills.
9:46 p.m. Burglary was reported on Breezy Way in Placerville.
March 10
1:18 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of possessing narcotics, unlawful paraphernalia, destroying/concealing evidence, providing false ID to a police o cer and a probation violation on Cold Springs Road in Placerville. They were listed in custody.
1:38 a.m. Burglary to a residence reported on Friedman Lane in Rescue.
2:01 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of possessing the identi cation of 10 or more people, possession of a controlled substance for sale, possession of a controlled substance with two or more priors and a probation violation on Cold Springs Road in Placerville. They were listed in custody.
2:33 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Deer Canyon Road in Camino.
3:21 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Brittany Way in El Dorado Hills.
3:34 p.m. Battery was reported on South Street in Georgetown.
4:56 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of driving with a suspended license, evading a peace o cer and violating probation on Marjorie Way in Pollock Pines. They were listed in custody.
5:34 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Moonshine Hill Road in Placerville.
6:55 p.m. Battery was reported on She eld Drive in El Dorado Hills.
9:04 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a grocery store on Mount Aukum Road in Mount Aukum.
10:18 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a grocery store on Mount Aukum Road in Mount Aukum.
March 11
12:32 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Moonshine Hill Road in Placerville.
11:07 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Elite Court in Placerville.
5:44 p.m. Drunk in public was reported at a gas station on Pony Express Trail in Camino.
1:19
7:20 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Alhambra Drive in Cameron Park.
7:37 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Hidden Lake Drive in Placerville.
March 12
1:13 p.m. Drunk in public was reported on Adney Way in Pollock Pines.
2:51 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Woodridge Road in Placerville.
3:14 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a mobile home park on Pleasant Valley Road in
March delivers Latest survey notes statewide snowpack near average
Department of Water Resources
News release
SACRAMENTO
— The Department of Water Resources recently conducted the April snow survey at Phillips Station. The manual survey recorded 39.5 inches of snow depth and a snow water equivalent of 17 inches, which is 70% of average for this location.
The snow water equivalent measures the amount of water contained in the snowpack and is a key component of DWR’s water supply forecast. Statewide, the snowpack is 90% of average for this date.
The April measurement is a critical marker for water managers across the state, as it is typically the time when the snowpack reaches its maximum volume and begins to melt. DWR’s water supply forecasts use data from the April 1 snowpack to calculate how much snowmelt runoff will eventually make its way into California’s rivers and reservoirs.
While the snowpack has caught up to near normal, broad swaths of Southern California remain exceptionally dry and below average for rainfall. This includes the Los Angeles region, which as of late March had received only 45% of its average rainfall so far this water year.
“It’s great news that
our state’s snowpack has recovered from several weeks of extremely dry conditions in the heart of our winter storm season,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “However, it’s not a wet year across the entire Sierra Nevada. The north has great snowpack, but snowpack is less than average in the central and southern part of the mountain range. That snowpack ultimately flows to the Delta and the regional disparity affects how much water the State Water Project will be able to deliver.”
Measuring California’s snowpack is a key
component that guides how California’s water supplies are managed. On average, California’s snowpack supplies about 30% of California’s water needs. Its natural ability to store water is why California’s snowpack is often referred to as California’s “frozen reservoir.”
The data and measurements collected from DWR and its partners with the California Cooperative Snow Surveys Program help inform the water supply and snowmelt runoff forecasts, known as the Bulletin 120, that help water managers
plan for how much water will eventually reach state reservoirs in the spring and summer. This information is also a key piece in calculating State Water Project allocation updates each month.
“We are very thankful to be ending March where we are now with more snow in the forecast next week, especially considering the dry start to the year,” said Andy Reising, manager of DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit. “From major storms in November and December to a bone-dry January, then back to major storms in February and March, this year is a lesson in why we can never know
for certain what our water picture will look like until we get to the end of our traditional wet season.”
Before storms in February and March, California was experiencing an excessively dry January that stalled critical growth of the snowpack and contributed to the dangerous conditions that led to devastating wildfires in Southern California. To prepare for the next drought, DWR and Gov. Gavin Newsom have taken actions to secure and protect California’s water supply in the face of growing climate extremes while balancing the needs of the environment. In January, Newsom issued
an executive order to make it easier for local and regional agencies to maximize groundwater recharge, ensuring California is able to capture and store as much water as possible during high winter flows. California is also working with the scientific community to adopt the best available science for the state’s water management. A recently released report shows that DWR’s investments in pursuing new strategies known as Forecast Informed Reservoir Operations, which provides flexible water management based on the newest forecasting technologies, can both reduce flood risk for downstream communities and benefit water supplies during dry period.
Last fall, the State Water Project received a new operating permit after years of working with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and partners at state and federal fish agencies, that will address the dual challenges of climate change impacts and endangered species protections. Thanks to efforts to capture as much water as possible from this year’s storms, reservoirs across the state are currently 115% of average.
DWR conducts four or five snow surveys at Phillips Station each winter near the first of each month, January through April and, if necessary, May. For California’s current hydrological conditions visit cww.water.ca.gov.
Chris Woodard
Staff writer
El Dorado
Progressives and Indivisible El Dorado hosted a town hall featuring Congressman John Garamendi, D-CA, at the Cameron Park Community Services District, who spoke via Zoom with California’s 5th Congressional District constituents on April 9.
Garamendi represents California’s 8th Congressional District, which covers part of the Bay Area and includes the cities of Vallejo, Fairfield and Richmond. He joined the town hall via Zoom from Washington, D.C., to speak to about 350 attendees with about 65 more watching online.
“Why are you all gathered here tonight in El Dorado County? Because you have a representative that doesn’t give a good
goddamn about what’s happening,” Garamendi said. Garamendi
DIFFERENT TYPES OF ORAL CANCER
(the
and the
(the
The different parts of the mouth and throat—such as the tongue, gums, soft palette, and tonsils—contain different types of cells, and each type of oral cancer starts in a different type of cell. The type of oral cancer determines a person’s treatment options and prognosis. Most mouth and throat cancers start in the squamous cells that form the lining of the mouth and throat. Other types of oral cancers start in the salivary glands in the lining of the mouth and throat, or in the tonsils and the base of the tongue where immune system cells (lymphoids) that can develop lymphomas are located.
As part of your healthcare team, we are concerned about all aspects of your health. If oral cancer or any other medical condition comes to our attention during a dental exam, you can be sure we will discuss the issues with you as well as any other healthcare provider if you choose. We bring you our dental column as a way to inform our friends and neighbors here in Placerville of the many benefits of professional dentistry. For gentle dental care for the family, please call us for an appointment.
P.S. Leukoplakia and erythroplakia are possible pre-cancer conditions found in the oral cavity and throat. Their most common causes are smoking and chewing tobacco.
Photo by Xavier Mascareñas / California Department of Water Resources
California Department of Water Resources’ Laura Hollender, left, deputy director for Flood Management and Dam Safety, and Andy Reising, Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit manager, conduct the fourth media snow survey of the 2025 season at Phillips Station in the Sierra Nevada.
Mountain Democrat photo by Chris Woodard
The crowd listens as Congressman Garamendi answers questions at a town hall gathering in Cameron park earlier this month.
McClintock with town hall
California enters next phase of wolf conservation plan
Katie Talbot California Department of Fish and Wildlife
As California’s gray wolf population grows, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife is advancing the state’s management of this species and further supporting communities where they are known to reside.
At the end of 2024, there were seven known wolf packs in the state and four additional areas of known wolf activity. Most of those packs are in northeastern California, although one is in the southern Sierra Nevada.
Five of the seven packs met CDFW’s definition of a “breeding pair” in 2024, meaning two adults and two or more pups surviving until the end of the year. Because CDFW has documented at least four breeding pairs for two consecutive years, California is now in Phase 2 of wolf management, as specified by the state’s 2016 Conservation Plan for Gray Wolves in California.
The 2016 plan was an important milestone for CDFW and the state of California. Over a span of one-and-ahalf years and more than 40 meetings, CDFW convened and collaborated with multiple organizations, agencies and local governments to develop the plan. This massive undertaking across diverse interests resulted in the firstever conservation plan that still guides species management today. The plan includes the list of those invited to participate in its development
In Phase 2, as outlined in the conservation plan, CDFW plans to take the following actions:
• Initiate a review to evaluate the status of gray wolves in the state. This will include an opportunity for tribal and public input and independent peer review.
• Evaluate legal pathways under the California Endangered Species Act and the Federal Endangered Species Act to potentially issue permits allowing for more aggressive forms of hazing in specific situations. Also known as “less-than-lethal harassment,” examples include the use of tools and techniques such as firearms discharging nonlethal ammunitions or the use of motorized equipment to follow or pursue a wolf to modify wolf activity or presence near livestock.
Additional actions planned by CDFW in the coming weeks and months include:
• Release of an online tool to provide location information for GPScollared wolves. This tool will greatly facilitate CDFW’s efforts, as guided by the Conservation Plan, to provide timely information regarding wolf activity in the vicinity of livestock production.
• Release of CDFW’s first annual report detailing its wolf conservation and management activities and summarizing information on California’s wolves. This initial report will summarize information from 2015–24.
CDFW is already taking action to monitor and track gray wolves, investigate livestock depredation and support reduced human-wildlife conflict with gray wolves. Those actions include:
• Continuing to accept applications and issuing compensation payments to livestock producers who have had confirmed killed or injured livestock, or probable killed or injured livestock, by wolves through the Wolf Livestock Compensation Program. During development of this program, CDFW convened a stakeholder working group of interested parties with
diverse perspectives, experience and expertise to gather information and provide input. In 2023, during early implementation of the program, CDFW conducted several technical assistance workshops with county agency partners to help producers understand the application process. From 2022 through early 2024, a pilot program compensated eligible producers for direct livestock loss, for the indirect impacts of wolf presence, and costs for nonlethal deterrence. Since late 2024, the program has paid producers for direct losses. To date, through both programs, CDFW has awarded or approved $3.1 million in compensation. The “three-prongs” approach makes this program the most comprehensive in the nation.
• Continuing to monitor the status of individual wolf packs, investigate areas of known or suspected wolf activity to search for new packs, and GPS-collar wolves in those packs without collared wolves. In 2024, CDFW spent 203 staff days in the field attempting to capture and collar wolves. In the first part of 2025, CDFW has been able to collar and release 12 gray wolves in northern California. There are now more satellite-collared wolves in California than ever before, which is expected to improve understanding and management of the species in the state.
• Continuing to reach out to and engage with the public: CDFW is in regular communication and coordination with livestock producers, county agriculture departments, private timberland managers, federal agencies, tribes and conservation organizations. Ongoing communication also occurs in counties with known wolves and new areas of wolf activity including county boards of supervisors, agricultural commissioners, farm services advisers, local cattlemen’s associations and farm bureau boards. In 2024, CDFW participated in 34 community engagement events to inform the public about ongoing wolf conservation efforts in California.
• Continuing research collaborations such as the California Wolf Project to address key scientific questions about California’s wolves, including their diet, habitat use, relationships with other wildlife and patterns of livestock conflict. In 2025, the CAWP released its 2024 annual report. The research helps augment monitoring for future management actions and helps the public and stakeholders understand the process of wolf recovery through an evidence-based approach.
• Continuing habitat improvements for native prey species. CDFW will continue to partner with tribes and conservation organizations on habitat improvements and monitoring for wolf prey species, including deer, elk and pronghorn. Over the last 11 years, these efforts have funded over $15 million in monitoring and habitat improvements such as guzzler installations, conifer removal and meadow restoration in the northern region of the state alone.
• Continuing to investigate livestock depredations. CDFW is actively engaged with livestock producers investigating loss of livestock due to suspected wolf depredation. In 2024, CDFW participated in or worked with federal and local authorities and livestock producers to conduct 79 investigations. Over 80% of all investigations were conducted on the day loss was reported.
Courtesy photo
CDFW is taking action to monitor and track gray wolves that now call California home.
Call before you grab that shovel; April is National Safe Digging Month
AUBURN — Every day in Central and Northern California, underground utility lines are damaged due to homeowners and contractors failing to call 811 before starting digging projects. Not only is digging without knowing the location of underground lines dangerous, it can also result in expensive repairs and inconvenient outages. Pacific Gas and Electric Company is joining with others across the country during National Safe Digging Month to help raise awareness of the importance of calling 811 before you dig.
Underground utility lines can be shallow, sometimes only a few inches below the surface, due to erosion, previous digging projects or landscaping, shifting or settling of the ground and uneven surfaces. Customers should call 811 a minimum of two business days before starting any digging project, large or small, as damaging an underground utility line while digging is dangerous and can leave customers responsible for repair costs averaging $3,500.
In 2024, contractors and homeowners have struck and broke PG&E gas lines 242 times in the greater Sacramento area. Here is the count by county: El Dorado, 15; Nevada, 8; Placer, 42; Sacramento, 113; San Joaquin, 43; Sierra, 1; Yolo, 20.
“Calling 811 before any size digging project will help keep you, your family and neighbors safe and will also help you avoid expensive repairs averaging $3,500 should you damage an underground line while digging. Professional utility locators will come to your home and mark the location of underground utilities free of charge so that you can dig safe and know what’s below,” said Joe Wilson, vice president of PG&E’s North Valley & Sierra Region.
Warmer weather months see an increase in digging projects, and unfortunately many of those projects are proceeding without a free call to 811
Before you dig on your property, make a call to 811 to ensure your yardwork doesn’t become a gas leak.
to have underground utilities marked for project sites. In fact, according to a recent national survey conducted by the Common Ground Alliance, 56% of homeowners plan to dig without calling 811 first. But, failure to call 811 before digging resulted in over 1,300 incidents during 2024 where underground utility lines were damaged due to digging in PG&E’s service area alone.
2024 by the numbers
• There were 1,302 incidents in Northern and Central California where homeowners or contractors damaged underground gas or electric lines while digging
• In 60% of incidents when an underground utility line was damaged due to digging, 811 was not called.
• For homeowners specifically, that percentage rises to 89%
• The average cost to repair a damaged utility line is $3,500
• Leading causes of damages to underground utility lines while digging include: building or replacing a fence, gardening and landscaping, planting a tree or removing a stump, sewer and irrigation work and building a deck or patio
Shepard Continued from A1
held special meaning to him and his stepson. With Liz in the background singing along, Ted sang, “I can only imagine what it will be like when I walk by your side.”
Kristy Romney shared that Coach Shep, as she knew him, brought that same giving energy and community spirit that had already been mentioned to the baseball community.
“He not only taught the fundamentals of the game, he taught patience, teamwork, integrity, sportsmanship and
Wolves Continued from A4
CDFW’s Law Enforcement Division will continue to investigate and evaluate any reports of undesired or abnormal wolf behavior that may represent threats to public safety. Though these cases remain rare, both California state and federal law recognize the need to allow for human protection against animal attacks. Both provide the legal framework to allow individuals to take reasonable action to protect themselves or others from a direct and imminent threat from an animal.
LED will work with partner agencies to appropriately and quickly respond to such incidents.
LED, alongside CDFW wildlife biologists, dedicates numerous staff hours and resources to supporting wolf conservation.
Wildlife officers have jurisdiction to investigate the death of
how to bounce back after a tough loss,” she said. He left behind a legacy no scoreboard can capture, she told the crowd, adding, “Your spirit will echo in every pitch, every cheer from the stands and every young player lacing up their cleats for the first time.”
Placerville Mayor John Clerici spoke about knowing Shepard when he was friends with his daughter and shared that Shepard’s loss hit his family hard. Then he thanked the community for coming out to
California wolves; they take these investigations seriously and pursue every lead to determine the cause of death and
Calling 811 is fast and free
• Customers should call 811 a minimum of two business days before beginning any project that involves digging, no matter how large or small. Customers can also visit 811express.com to have underground utility lines marked for their project site.
• Professional utility workers for all utilities (gas, electric, water, sewer and telecommunications) will be dispatched to mark the location of all underground utility lines for the project site with flags, spray paint or both
• The 811 call center serving Central and Northern California, USA North, is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will provide Spanish and other translation services.
PG&E safe digging tips
• Mark project area in white: Identify the digging location by drawing a box around the area using white paint, white stakes, white flags, white chalk or even white baking flour.
• Call 811 or submit an online request a minimum of two working days before digging: Be prepared to provide the address and general location of the project, project start date and type of digging activity. PG&E and other utilities will identify underground facilities in the area for free. Requests can be submitted a maximum of 14 days prior to the start of the project.
• Dig safely: Use hand tools when digging within 24 inches of the outside edge of underground lines. Leave utility flags, stakes or paint marks in place until the project is finished. Backfill and compact the soil.
• Be aware of signs of a natural gas leak: Smell for a “rotten egg” odor, listen for hissing, whistling or roaring sounds and look for dirt spraying into the air, bubbling in a pond or creek and dead/dying vegetation in an otherwise moist area.
honor him.
“This is really important stuff right here,” he said. “Everything else is the details.”
He said the community coming together to mourn one of its own is what makes Placerville and El Dorado County special.
“Lucas’s passing, you know, reminds us of the frailty of the human body,” he said. “But then in situations like this, it reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the value of community.”
whether a crime has occurred. In the last five years, CDFW wildlife officers have conducted eight investigations
into gray wolf deaths, as well as spent nearly 1,000 staff hours in the forensics lab processing 1,693 samples.
Mountain Democrat photos by Andrew Vonderschmitt
Shepard’s step father Ted Nagelm left, shared a song of meaning to him and “Shep.” El Dorado County Fire Protection District Fire Chief Tim Cordero, right, said it was an honor to work with Shepard.
Paul Moreno PG&E
Pixabay image
OPINION
California Matters
Other states do housing much better
Overwhelm-
ingly
Californians rate the intertwined issues of housing supply, living costs and homelessness as the state’s most pressing issues, as a recent poll by the Public Policy Institute of California confirms.
The terrible trio, as one might term it, also draws constant verbal acknowledgement from the state’s politicians, from Gov. Gavin Newsom down, and he and legislators have enacted dozens, perhaps hundreds, of measures to address it.
Nevertheless there’s little evidence that their e orts have had material impact. Either the three situations are beyond the capacity of politics to address — a distinct possibility — or the political e orts to date have not been vigorous enough. Why, one must wonder, is California plagued while residents of other states enjoy lower housing and living costs and experience much lower rates of homelessness? Shouldn’t our political and civic leaders be examining what these other states are doing right, or are they so a icted with selfrighteous hubris that they cannot entertain such a thought?
A new and very detailed study of housing policies in the nation’s 250 largest metropolitan areas confirms that California is an outlier when it comes to increasing housing supply and moderating its costs.
Titled “BUILD HOMES, EXPAND OPPORTUNITY,” the report is a product of the George W. Bush Institute at Southern Methodist University.
“America’s fastest-growing cities o er lessons on how America can address its housing a ordability crisis,” the report declares. “Based on our analysis of the 250 largest metropolitan areas and a deep dive into 25 large metros in the Sun Belt and Mountain states, places scoring best for pro-growth housing and land-use policies are mostly large Sun Belt metros from the Carolinas through Texas to Utah.”
The metros doing the best job of meeting their housing demands, the report says, have policies that make it easy for developers to build. That includes allowing higher-density housing in “substantial fractions of every city,” reducing minimum lot sizes, allowing residential construction in commercial areas, reducing or eliminating parking requirements and embracing innovative technologies such as modular construction and 3D printing.
In addition to adopting specific housing policies that spur development, the report continues, metros that are meeting demand also pursue complementary policies, such as having enough educational and medical services, allowing “finegrained mixing of land uses and human activities in as many places as possible,” allowing “dynamic
■ See WALTERS, page A7
The Balancing Act
The original Bozo the clown, Bob Bell, passed three decades ago; however, Bozo is alive and well — now played by Tim Walz — and he recently stepped in “it.” In what appears to be his failed attempt for the 2028 Democrat presidential nomination, Walz bragged, “Tesla stock hit $225 and was falling.” Its recent high at the first of the year was $488. The reason Walz is so happy is that Tesla’s CEO is Elon Musk, also of DOGE. Musk is slashing government waste, fraud and abuse, something all Democrats hate. How dare Musk drain the swamp! Democrats all claim to be against waste and fraud, except they hate Musk for doing the work. In reality, Democrat claims are patently false. Their leaders have talked about fraud and waste for decades now, but it continues at an even greater rate when they are in control of the government. And now that President
Letters to the Editor
Don’t circumvent our legal system
EDITOR:
Soccer and basketball are my favorite sports. I love watching my grandchildren as they put their whole selves into learning the skills and the rules of the game. They learn that within the structure of these rules, watched over by the referee, they can play the game safely and be treated fairly.
Can you imagine what would happen if suddenly the league was told that there would be no more referees? Instead there would be a free for all and may the best team win.
When I was in school we learned that our government works because there is a Legislative branch to make the laws, an Executive branch to enforce the laws and the Judicial branch to interpret the laws. Each branch provides checks and balances upon the other.
The Judicial system in our democratic country is the referee. The judges follow the rule of law and make decisions about the plainti ’s case. When you disagree with the judge’s decision you have the right to appeal that decision.
In the past 200 years of our democracy it was understood that you do not have the right to get rid of the judge if you don’t like their decision. It seems silly to even contemplate that, doesn’t it?
So why do you think President Trump has called for the impeachment of Judge Boasberg? Why did he not simply appeal the case as is the normal procedure? And why has Attorney General Bondi said we must remove certain judges?
That said, why do you think that Chief Justice John Roberts rejected calls to impeach judges?
Here’s what he said: “For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision. The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.”
What do you think will happen to our system of laws if we do not respect our referees, the judges? What do you think will happen to our system of laws if we get to pick and choose who will decide our case based on who we think will favor us?
Donald J. Trump, along with his head of DOGE, non-paid employee Musk, the Democrats appear to be going to any means to stop the cutting of waste and fraud within the ranks of the federal government.
Musk, who is allegedly the richest person in the world, has had his net worth cut by tens of billions of dollars.
The first incidents of rampant vandalism came from the mislabeled thugs called Antifa (they are the fascists), then in 2020 Black Lives Matter burned down parts of Minneapolis (Bozo, as governor of Minnesota, failed to stop that vandalism) and now climate activists are burning Teslas — the “hot” selling EV — and vandalizing dealerships. They think it’s going to hurt Musk and he will stop slashing government waste. With all the cameras, these new domestic terrorists are going to jail and will be ordered to pay for their damages. Jail is real’ repayment
Bozo’s glee of Tesla stock falling in price is hurting millions of working Americans as the value of their pension funds and 401Ks decline.
for their damages will be unlikely.
The first three have been arrested and face 5-20 years. Examples need to be made.
Bozo Tim is happy with the price of Tesla stock cratering, hoping it will hurt Musk, but the Minnesota pension fund isn’t. It owns 1.6 million shares, meaning the fund lost more than $400 million in value because wacko criminals are vandalizing Teslas. But that’s not all, Minnesota has an additional 200,000 shares, meaning another $52 million lost. And Tim is happy about Tesla’s decline as his state is losing nearly half a billion dollars?
Calling him a clown is being too nice. How did this guy ever become a congressman or a governor?
Leftists/Democrats are only shooting themselves in the foot. Musk’s losses will probably be paid by insurance. If you think fire insurance premiums are high now, just wait. If
the damages total $50 million, we all will get to pay for it with higher insurance premiums for everyone, including the perps of the vandalism, if they even own something worth protecting with insurance (I doubt it.). Insurance is a risk pool of money to which everyone who has insurance pays into.
But Bozo, who claims to be a working man’s man, is against the working class and clearly demonstrates that in his hateful comments. Most working people have pension and 401K plans. And those plans invest in stocks and many hold tens of thousands, if not millions of shares of Tesla stock just like the state of Minnesota. Bozo’s glee of Tesla stock falling in price is hurting millions of working Americans as the value of their pension funds and 401Ks decline. As with all socialists/
LARRY WEITZMAN
DAN WALTERS
changes in land use rather than trying to freeze neighborhoods,” and providing amenities such as “walkability, revitalized live-work-play downtowns” and “great parks and trails.”
So, one might ask, which metro areas are hitting all the right buttons and which are not, as determined in the study?
The 25 top pro-housing metros are all either in the Sun Belt —
Continued from A6
particularly Texas, California’s archrival — or in the mountain states such as Utah and Idaho. No. 1 is Charlotte, N.C. and No. 2 is Austin, the Texas capital which is becoming a powerful competitor with California’s Silicon Valley.
Not surprisingly, California metros are heavily represented on the list of the nation’s 25 “most restrictive” metros. While Honolulu is the least accommodating, Oxnard is No. 2.
Our democracy and system of laws with its checks and balances has never been perfect. It has, however, allowed us to live in a country that aspires to provide safety for its citizens and creates an opportunity to demand, through the legal system, fairness. That’s the kind of country that I want to live in.
MARY ELLIOTT-KLEMM Somerset
Disassembling America
EDITOR:
On a recent “60 Minutes” post: President Trump Thursday added the Smithsonian to the list of cultural institutions he plans to restructure. Trump says he wants to ensure no
Nine of the 25 are in California. They include, in order after Oxnard, San Jose, San Diego, RiversideSan Bernardino, San Francisco, Sacramento, Bakersfield, Fresno and Stockton.
It would be tempting to dismiss the Bush Institute’s report as biased because it comes from Texas, but it contains a wealth of detail and explains how the data were evaluated.
A better response from California
funding goes to exhibits or programs that “degrade shared American values” or promote “ideologies inconsistent with federal law and policy.”
The Nazi regime viewed art as a tool for propaganda and racial purity, promoting classical and heroic styles while condemning modern art as “degenerative” and associated with Jewish and other undesirable groups.
Dictatorships remove your ability to make personal decisions and choices. Changes are made to voting regulations to ensure re-election of the dictator. Mr. Trump is now aspiring for a third term; notice any changes to the election policies in the last couple of years?
He’s closing the government’s role in education and leaving a scattered, haphazard system of
by Will Shortz No. 0312
17, 2025
politicians would be to read the report and determine what more California could do to make the state housingfriendly. The state’s current path on housing, other living costs and homelessness is going in the wrong direction. Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters. org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
education, now ensuring there is no consistency from state to state. Wait until you see the mess that’s going to make for our children’s education. He supports isolation from the rest of the world, ensuring stronger control over the narrative. He has shut down the Voice of America, established in 1942 for the purpose of providing global news that is informational, unbiased and accurate. Another tool to exert control — leaving us with only the filtered, biased propaganda that the regime provides. Taking over Greenland? No wonder he has no problem with Putin and Ukraine; one land grab looks like another.
He is completely tearing down long-standing institutions, under the guise of making them more e cient. I have been in business management since I was 19 years old. I have never, ever seen a reconstruction for the purpose of e ciency handled without due diligence or a clear understanding of their functions, or what is necessary and what should be cut.
There is no transparency and he has a private, unelected citizen (Musk) in the White House, with our private information, making random slashes and cuts with no understanding of the consequences. I can say this most assuredly since no one from the White House has taken the time, nor asked anyone with actual experience in the fields, what is necessary and what should be cut. Not to mention what is happening to the justice system. He owns the courts and the ones he doesn’t, he will call out the individual publicly, hoping his out of control minions will take care of it (death threats and harassment). You know, every presidents’ go-to when solving disagreements with our justice system. All of this, in 100 days plus, is exhausting and, frankly, pretty scary. Those of you regretting your vote in November, please start speaking up. If we all rise together, regardless of party, we can prevent the dictatorship from taking hold and we can get our America back again.
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CLUB meets the rst Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.
El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR
RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheri ’s o ce, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net
PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452. We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA 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
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GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet rst and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.
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TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that a ect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.
TAMARA JANIES Pollock Pines
Crime
Continued
from A2
11:37 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Rickety Road in Somerset.
12:49 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Carson Road in Placerville.
2:41 p.m. Trespassing was reported on State Highway 49 in Placerville. An arrest was made.
5:45 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Stoneman Way in El Dorado Hills.
6:42 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Moonshine Hill Road in Placerville.
6:53 p.m. Battery was reported at a mental health center on Glee Lane in Placerville.
8:02 p.m. Burglary was reported on El Dorado Road in El Dorado.
8:27 p.m. Burglary was reported at a mental health center on South Shingle Road in Shingle Springs.
9:32 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of burglary on Highway 50 in Kyburz. They were listed in custody in lieu of a $50,000 bail.
10:51 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Moonshine Hill Road in Placerville.
March 17
2:37 a.m. Trespassing was reported at a car dealership on Mercedes Lane in El Dorado Hills.
March 18
Mine Road in Diamond Springs.
9:22 a.m. Trespassing was reported at a gas station on Cameron Park Drive in Cameron
Recall Continued from A1
of Park Impact Fees.
• Conflict of interest violations involving the former CSD general manager and consultant DTA.
11:45 a.m. Grand theft reported on Oak Ridge Road in Placerville.
4:18 p.m. Battery was reported on a bike trail on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.
6:07 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.
8:25 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of driving under the influence and resisting a peace officer on Green Valley Road in El Dorado Hills. They were listed in custody.
March 19
12:08 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of violating probation, giving false ID to a peace officer and smuggling a controlled substance into prison on Glorene Avenue in Shingle Springs. They were listed in custody.
7:59 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Mac Leod Trail in Georgetown.
10:40 a.m. Grand theft reported on Treasure Rock Lane in Placerville.
11:03 a.m. Battery was reported on Wentworth Springs Road in Georgetown.
11:16 a.m. Battery reported at a business on State Highway 49 in El Dorado.
12:43 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a
he added.
• Failure to perform board duties, such as calling public meetings to order and filling board vacancies, resulting in the county stepping in.
• Brown Act violations and misleading responses to 2024 Grand Jury reports.
EDHCSD board President Ferry told the Mountain Democrat he was surprised by the announcement and said the notice he received included “glaring mistakes.”
Noting he was sworn in on Dec. 12, 2022, Ferry said all the lawsuits referenced in the notice predate his time on the board and any actions he has taken regarding those lawsuits would have happened in closed session.
“The $13,000,000 Bass Lake Park was given away in 2020,” Ferry continued.
“The Measure QRS issue is one where the California Fair Political Practices Commission has recused me from even commenting ‘off campus,’”
grocery store on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.
2:17 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Yokoli Lane in Garden Valley.
3:05 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of being a prohibited person possessing a firearm and ammunition, carjacking, false imprisonment, battery and resisting a peace officer on Waetworth Springs Road in Shingle Springs. They were listed in custody.
11:32 p.m. Battery was reported at a county jail on Forni Road in Placerville.
March 20
10:13 a.m. Battery was reported at a high school on Harvard Way in El Dorado Hills. An arrest was made.
12:07 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a motel on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.
12:12 p.m. Burglary was reported on Volcanoville Road in Georgetown.
3:08 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a hotel on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.
4:38 p.m. Battery was reported on Sunset Lane in Shingle Springs.
6:51 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a church on Mother Lode Drive in Placerville.
7:50 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Tullis
Ferry also pointed out he and Director Heidi Hannaman (the only director not included in the recall effort) “tried diligently to have the CSD Board of Directors appoint a new member to our board.”
“One thing I did do, that I am accused of, was to vote to purchase half of the Old Executive Golf Course for $10,000,000,” he admitted. “Having been in El Dorado Hills since April of 2000, I had heard the neighbors’ desire to purchase the golf course, including passing Measure E at 92% to preserve this property.”
Regarding the fiasco related to former GM Kevin Loewen, Ferry added, “You will notice that I made the motion to make public the investigation into Loewen. The investigation was then released to the public.”
Ferry said he thanks all his supporters. “I am very proud of the work I have done and so is my family,” he concluded. “That is good enough for me.”
Voters re-elected Mattock in November 2024. She beat Gutierrez
March 21
8:29 a.m. Grand theft was reported at a motel on Greenleaf Drive in Placerville.
8:32 a.m. Trespassing was reported on State Highway 49 in Placerville.
9:03 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a treatment center on Arroyo Vista Way in Placerville.
8:42 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a gas station on Camino Heights Drive in Camino.
9:35 p.m. Battery was reported at an apartment complex on Sunset Lane in Shingle Springs.
10:26 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Garden Circle in Cameron Park.
March 22
4:22 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of petty theft, taking a vehicle without owner’s consent, violating probation and possession of a controlled substance on Canal Street in Placerville. They were listed in custody in lieu of a $25 ,000 bail.
2:42 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Boulder Mine Lane in Pilot Hill.
2:44 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a store on Sly Park Road in Placerville.
4:04 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Wagon View Trail in Diamond Springs.
by 641 votes to retain her seat on the board. Regarding this latest recall effort — Mattock has endured other efforts/threats of recall in the past — the longtime EDHCSD director told the Mountain Democrat, “I have great respect for the democratic process. If the community determines that they no longer wish for me to serve as their representative — less than six months after my re-election — I will fully respect and accept that decision.”
Director Martinelli has not responded to the Mountain Democrat’s request for comment.
At the April 10 meeting residents seemed divided about the recall effort. Cheers and applause followed Gutierrez’ statement while others expressed hesitation and uncertainty.
Wayne Lowery, a longtime EDH resident, former EDHCSD general manager and board director, acknowledged the board is navigating through tough times at the moment but also noted positive attributes of those currently serving on the board.
EDH resident Ben Glickman said a recall may look like a positive action,
Congressional District Representative Kevin Kiley, R-CA, adding, “Some of you are from Nevada County and Kiley is no different.”
Indivisible El Dorado is a nonpartisan group that closely watches local legislators’ actions, said Joel Ellinwood, a member of the group’s leadership team. “If they’re not accountable, we’ll make sure that we get new elected officials who will be,” he said.
Garamendi joined the event for about an hour and answered questions.
“Does Congress have the power to stop the president from waging these crazy tariffs? How can Congress do it? And why haven’t they?” asked Shingle Springs resident Jeanette Maynard.
Garamendi later answered the question, explaining that Congress has constitutional power over tariffs, but President Trump is using an emergency power to enact the tariffs.
“There’s a legitimate issue of whether there is a real emergency; the answer in my case is no,” Garamendi said. “The Senate is moving a piece of legislation that is specific to Canada and tariffs in Canada, and it regains the constitutional power on tariffs for Canada. I would like to see that expanded to other countries.”
Garamendi concluded his hour by issuing a call to action divided into three parts: continue to organize, try to increase voter registration and help define the “Democratic positive message” and bring it up in conversations to friends and family.
“Do the communication to new
5:14 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a department store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.
8:30 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a department store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.
11:59 p.m. Battery was reported on Country Club Drive in Cameron Park.
March 23
11:01 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Sparrow Lane in Shingle Springs. An arrest was made.
11:58 a.m. Burglary was reported Pony Express Trail in Camino.
12:09 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Fowler Lane in Diamond Springs.
2:01 p.m. Battery was reported on Puerta Del Sol Road in Camino.
3:37 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Faith Lane/Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs. 6:56 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a casino on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville.
7 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Missouri Flat Road/Headington Road in Placerville.
7 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a motel on Greanleaf Drive in Placerville.
but it isn’t constructive and distracts the directors and the community from addressing important issues.
“This community can’t move forward if we’re only looking back,” he said. “Right now, I fear we’re allowing the past to dictate our future. And that’s not a recipe for progress.”
Next steps
California’s Recall Procedures guide notes recall proponents must publish a copy of the notice of intention to recall in a local newspaper (in this case the Mountain Democrat) and provide proof of the notice’s publication. Then they must prepare the recall petition for circulation as well as disclosures and recallrelated documents. If all documents are approved by Elections officials, proponents have 120 days to gather signatures from 20% of registered voters within the EDHCSD’s jurisdiction. Elections officials will then verify those signatures and determine if the recall qualifies for the ballot.
and existing Democrats. Do not depend on the candidates to do that; do it yourself in your communities,” Garamendi said.
Debra McCartney, co-lead of the rural caucus at Indivisible El Dorado and the sister of Congressman Garamendi, who both grew up in Mokelumne Hill, said the people in rural areas of El Dorado County have similar experiences.
“The need for social services are the same in these small rural areas and I think Democrats there sometimes feel outnumbered and, because of that, they feel inhibited about getting engaged,” McCartney said. “I think in response to the Trump administration, it has allowed Democrats to feel emboldened to get out and organize.”
Gina Abrams, the Take Action Now team leader at Indivisible El Dorado, said she thinks the event was a success.
“I really wanted people to have the experience of what it’s like to be heard and to have someone truthfully answer and thoroughly answer what is concerning them,” Abrams said. “We have not had that from a congressman for a long, long time and this was to provide the experience of how it should be.”
Congressman McClintock did not respond to the Mountain Democrat’s request for comment.
“This movement has power, and people are experiencing that power and courage,” Ellinwood said. “It gives them courage, and courage is contagious.”
backed by
Democratic candidate for
governor, Stacy Abrams. That particular NGO hadn’t done a single thing to benefit the climate. I wonder how much money Abrams got from that grant (or should it be called a Democrat political slush fund) days before Biden left office (probably signed off by autopen)? Tesla is rebounding from its recent low of $225 on March 18, when Walz made his stupid comments. Closing April 14 at a little more than $252. Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.
Weitzman Continued from A6
Garamendi Continued fromA3
Ryan Peter wins Tilford Tribute in dramatic fashion
Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway
Rio Linda’s Ryan Peter took advantage of traffic on the final corner to score a wild victory with the Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks at Placerville Speedway on Saturday.
Also snagging wins as part of the Donnie Tilford Tribute were Ray Trimble with the Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models, Austin Struthers with the Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks and Ryan Smith in the traveling West Coast Pro Stock feature.
The Pure Stocks set a blistering pace in the 25-lap Tilford Tribute finale. Drivers battled tooth and nail as the initial 20 circuits clicked off caution free. Diamond Springs Dan Jinkerson led early on but felt intense pressure in the form of Nick Baldwin, brother Kevin Jinkerson and Peter.
With the Pure Stocks thundering around red clay, Baldwin hounded Jinkerson for the lead, before taking over the point on lap six. Excellent racing continued throughout the feature, but things changed wildly on the final lap.
Baldwin looked to be on way to victory but caught lapped cars side by side entering turn three for the final time. He backed off to avoid collision; however, Baldwin got boxed in down low behind one of the cars, which pitched him sideways and stalled, unable to cross the stripe.
Peter had driven by D. Jinkerson just a lap prior and was now in position to take the checkered flag for the win with Baldwin parked off turn four. At the line it was Peter bringing home the surreal triumph over Dan Jinkerson, Tyler Lightfoot, Kevin Jinkerson and Tommy Sturgeon.
The Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models made their season debut on Saturday and saw
Auburn’s Trimble score a dominating win in the 25-lap contest. He was followed across the checkered by Matt Micheli, Rod Oliver, Tyler Lightfoot, Chris Mcginnis.
The Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks showcased a solid two truck battle up front with Struthers and rookie Noah LaPoint breaking away from the pack. Struthers led the first few laps, before LaPoint nipped him at the line to lead lap four. Struthers came right back by though and led the remaining circuits. LaPoint did keep him honest during the 25-lap race and crossed the line in second ahead of Brycen Bragg, Luke Costa and Paizlee Miller.
The West Coast Pro Stocks made their Placerville Speedway debut at the Tilford Tribute. Travis White jumped out front early and looked extremely fast while doing so. He would eventually develop a major push however, and on lap 15 it was Smith rocketing into the top spot. Smith cut smooth laps out front as Richard Brace Jr. attempted to close the gap. Smith was too good on this night though and accepted the Ron Stahl checkered flag for the win over Brace Jr., Chris Smith, Mark Garner and White.
Placerville Speedway
COMICS
n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
n RUBES by Leigh Rubin
n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
is dark for Easter weekend before returning to action on Saturday April 26 with Sutter’s Ridge Night by Williams Homes.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Regardless of the weather outside, you’re a force of nature inside, buzzing with excitement about what you’ll whip up. Remember, a goal isn’t a goal until it has a deadline. Get clarity around your timeline and you’ll be golden.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Risking your heart might seem dangerous if you were fully aware of it, but life has a way of tricking you into giving it freely. Only later do you realize that someone else is holding your most precious treasure.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). What you desire most might be the one thing you can’t have — or, you could have it, but deep down, you know it won’t be good for you or anyone else. This is one of those moments when resisting temptation is the wisest choice.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). As abundant as information may be, it is but a small mound of facts next to the infinity of unknown things. The importance of continuous inquiry will be emphasized today. Practical answers bring a sense of satisfaction.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Today’s revelation: Things don’t have to be perfect to create incredible opportunities. In fact, the raw, messy, imperfect things often spark the most connection and growth. People don’t just want polished — they want real.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). If you have an abundance of nerve to apply to your life, your stories will be glorious. However, if you don’t, you can still be the hero because you don’t need courage to do brave things — you just need to act.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Boredom may be uncomfortable, but it’s also the spark before your next great, purposeful creation. Give yourself the time and space to be profoundly bored. You’ll be amazed at what brilliant ideas rise from the emptiness.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Opinions and feelings get passed around — sometimes you inherit them, and sometimes you set them in motion. But what you feel now is yours alone, not borrowed or handed down. It’s an original invention, shaped by your own experience, for you and you alone. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). When we don’t agree but still need to interact, a bridge must be built, and
photos Ryan Peter & Co. celebrate a fantastic finish at Placerville Speedway Saturday night.
Austin Struthers reached the checkered flag first during the April 12 Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks race in Placerville.
Experience maintenance-free living with the convenience of restaurant style dining, weekly housekeeping and
staff on-site. MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING Our dedicated staff provides attentive, individualized care with around-the-clock staff, transportation and assistance with daily activities.
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
April 16
Music in the Mountains presents Musings with the Maestro - Mahler and his Symphony No. 2 via Zoom at 7 p.m. To register visit musicinthemountains.org.
Concerned about what to do if a wild re heads your way?
Are you interested in knowing what Fire Safe Councils are doing for the bene t of your community? Join the Camino Fire Safe Council at 6:30 p.m. at Cal Fire Mt. Danaher Station 20, conference room, 2840 Mt. Danaher Road in Camino.
April 17
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host a Business Luncheon with speaker Mark Egbert, El Dorado Rescource Conservation District at Red Hawk Casino’s Koto Bu et from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
Sacramento City College invites the community to the Celebrate City open house from 4-6 p.m. with free admission to a baseball game at Union Field on campus at 2 p.m.
April 18
The Sierra Renaissance Society presents Emergent Behavior and the Nexus With Philanthropy by William Roby, 1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. For more information visit srsedc.org.
The Shingle Springs Community Center will host The Bunko Dinner Fiesta Meal at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit shinglespringscommunitycenter.org.
Lazer Beam + Ashley Jaguar + Flannel will perform, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Lyndsey & Prime Country will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
Harris Center, esk and Silverback Films presents The Making of Our Planet — Frozen Worlds at 7:30 p.m. at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
April 19
El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents a Historical Home Tour in the Bedford-Clay Street Historic District, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit edchs.org.
Darth Mozart will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.
The Coyote Hill Band will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Power Play will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
Jimmy Vivino will perform at 7 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Local artists dazzle
D. Lee Reyes Gold Country Artists Gallery
Gold Country Artists Gallery, an awardwinning artists’ cooperative located in Placerville features the work of Randy Mitchell, Kirk Daugherty and Randy Honerlah. Mitchell’s art is inspired by things he has done as a living history re-enactor including as a stunt actor in Wild West shows, docudramas, movies and commercial venues, and as a member of the Hangtown Marshals in Placerville. He was also a teacher whose creativity took him on a path that combined his love of history and art in a way that makes history both exciting and personal.
Inspired by the folk art of the 1800s his Wood’n Things are evocative of a period in American history when toys were simple and often fashioned from things at hand. For example, he uses wood for his creations that he harvests from around his mountain property. His designs flow from his imagination and they are full of humor and whimsy.
While his subject matter is diverse, Daugherty’s greatest influence comes from nature. His talent for capturing special moments with precision and detail has earned him the reputation of producing exceptionally high-quality original images. As an experienced backpacker, he expresses his deep reverence for the natural environments he traverses, respecting and honoring them by keeping his “footprint” to a minimum. As a photographer, he is diligent about disturbing the flora and fauna as little as possible, saying, “they will never know I am there.” He developed a “philosophy of photography” that includes a deep understanding how organisms interact in their natural environment, mastery over the tools of his art, and the infinite patience it takes to wait and be ready for that special moment when it happens.
Honerlah’s paintings are inspired by the natural world around him, and his landscapes, animals and flowers rely on vivid colors, strength of composition and texture. He is fascinated by stained glass windows, mosaics and complex puzzle-
shapes. While his work is a blend of classic impressionism and contemporary illustration, he is especially drawn to the abstract as his favored genre. With the encouragement of friends who loved his work, he decided to venture into a more realistic direction, but how could he accomplish that and still remain true to his work? The solution was at hand. “I began abstracting in a more realistic way,” he said. “Abstract realism! The funny thing is that I started painting very loosely, and then tightened up my technique as I evolved, which is generally the opposite for most artists. But I discovered that there is no right or wrong way, as every style has its challenges and admirers.
Gold Country Artists Gallery features the work of many awardwinning regional artists working in fields as diverse as fine jewelry, photography, fused glass, wood turning, pastels, colored pencil, scratch board, and watercolor, acrylic and oil painting. The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on the Third Saturday of each month until 8 p.m. Gold Country Artists Gallery is located in downtown Placerville at 379 Main St. For more information call (530) 642-2944 or visit goldcountryartistsgallery.com.
Get your ticket to wine paradise
Mimi Escabar Special sections editor
Growing wines at higher elevations was a unique concept in the early days of the California wine industry but pioneering viticulturists in El Dorado County took some bold steps and planted grape vines in the granitic and volcanic soils at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet. The diverse range of micro-climates and varying terroir provides the perfect place to grow grapes for El Dorado County vintners to create their extraordinary wines.
During Passport Weekend, April 26 and 27 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day guests can visit 24 familyowned wineries to meet the winemakers and winery owners and sample their award-winning vintages. The journey is presented by the El Dorado Winery Association. Wineries will offer a range of unique experiences, including tasting of reserve wines, barrel tasting, educational opportunities, delectable food pairings, wine club members-for-a-day specials and some surprises.
The El Dorado County Passport journey, now in its 34th year, treks through the historical Gold Rush region with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada. Visit the wineries of Apple Hill/Camino, Pleasant Valley, Fair Play and Greater El Dorado. The county is home to more than 2,000 acres of vines and approximately 70 wineries.
Wine adventurers can select a one- or two-day Passport ticket or a designated driver option. Tickets will be available through April 26 at eldoradowines.org/passport. Four of the wineries are offering reservation-based experiences with the others receiving guests as they drop in.
“We love sharing the vast array of El Dorado mountain-grown wines, grown in unique and diverse microclimates at high elevations. This versatility makes up our amazing wine growing region,” said El Dorado Winery Association President Teena Hildebrand. “Passport showcases our delicious wines, offering guests the opportunity to taste over 30-plus wine varieties and blends, paired with creative food in a festive setting, always making for a fun and memorable weekend for our guests to explore our entire region.”
Participating winery experiences
Boeger Winery: Reservations are required to enjoy the beauty of the gardens, as guests are guided through a stellar lineup of wines, including unique grapes that grow well in the high-elevation vineyards. Passporters will enjoy a charcuterie box full of goodies to pair with specially curated wines and learn more about the history of the enchanting estate. For reservations call (530) 622-8094.
Bumgarner Winery, Camino: There will be a country fair theme with wine and hard ciders, featuring apple doughnuts, gourmet popcorn and hand-dipped corn dogs.
Bumgarner Winery, Fair Play: This location will feature Bumgarner’s French-style wines and foodie experience.
Busby Cellars: Enjoy delicious food and handcrafted, limited production wines while taking in panoramic vineyard views from the courtyard and picnic grounds. The gourmet menu includes delectable Korean Beef Street Tacos, Chilled Asian Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing, and Brownie Bites for dessert. Enjoy the newest releases, old favorites and modest prices.
Château d’ Estienne: Reservations are required for the perfect blend of wine and breathtaking views
and an unforgettable experience. Enjoy Portuguese varietals and the best port in North America, voted by the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, paired with delicious hors d’oeuvres. For reservations call (530) 620-7960.
Chateau Davell Boutique Winery: Stop by for a progressive experience with French cuisine inspired small bites carefully paired with the wines.
Crystal Basin Cellars: It will be a western themed day at the winery with pork ribs and vegetarian beans to accompany the excellent wines.
Fenton Herriott Vineyards: Get your Passport ready for food pairings, live music and wine specials and discounts.
Findleton Estate Winery: Reservations are required for 2025 Bubbles & Bites Experience. For reservations call (530) 644-4018 or send an email to findletonestate@gmail.com.
Golden Leaves Winery: Taste the award-winning white, rosé, red and dessert wines paired with delicious house made light bites while relaxing on the deck or in the large tasting room with indoor jazz and blues. Vegan, dairy and gluten-free options are available.
Holly’s Hill Vineyards & Brewery: Embark on a culinary adventure at Holly’s Hill, where co-winemaker and brewer Josh will not only amaze guests with his artisanal pizzas but also delight the palates with a unique fusion of wines and beers. Sip on the rich flavors of estate-grown Rhône wines, including inventive twists like Dry-Hopped Viognier and Frizzante Vermentino.
Lava Cap Winery: Visitors are invited to join the Jones Family at Lava Cap Winery to taste highelevation wines grown in the unique volcanic soil. Relax to some smooth music while sipping wine paired with classic Americana-inspired cuisine.
Madroña Vineyards: Reservations are recommended for the special sit-down tasting experience. While reservations are highly recommended, walk-ins will be accommodated based on space availability. There will be a carefully selected collection of special food items from Betty’s Tapas Catering, that will be pairing with the estate grown wines. Enjoy a delicious lemon dolma, crostini with hummus and a pickled onion, a date with blue cheese and fruit jam and to finish it all off as the dessert will be a chorizo meatball served with beer cheese that will be paired with a very special limited produced wine. Call (530) 644-5948 or email winery@madronavineyards.com to make reservations.
Medeiros Family Wines: There will be live music and barrel tasting with small bite pairing.
Mellowood Vineyard: Enjoy KK’s famous Kenyan BBQ and Kachumbari salad, prepared with imported East African spices and taste awardwinning wines, with seating on the beautiful patios overlooking the oak grove and vineyard or inside the barrel room/event room. Meet and chat with the owner and winemaker about his wines and his journey from Kenya to Fair Play wine country. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and warm hospitality on the southern end of the Fair Play AVA.
Narrow Gate Vineyards: Enter through the Narrow Gate and journey through the certified Biodynamic grown wines: Rhône and Bordeaux varietals and blends, El Dorado classics and the infamous Chocolate Splash. Sample the famous Passport Panini (gluten free and vegetarians are welcome). Enter to win a date with the winemaker Frank Hildebrand: An “Adult Biodynamic field trip” in the vineyard and picnic-style gourmet wine pairing lunch in the cellar for six — date to be arranged based on mutual availability of the winner
Charles Mansfield News release
and winemaker.
Nello Olivo Winery (both locations): The iconic “Godfather Experience” happens only once a year — and only at Passport. Start the day just two blocks from downtown Placerville at the historical (and haunted) Sequoia Mansion tasting room or visit the Camino location. Indulge in 10 top-awarded wines paired with delectable Italian bites and play a themed game for prizes. The costumed staff and epic music add to the movie-inspired atmosphere.
Shadow Ranch Vineyard: There will be live music from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The food pairings are the popular Greek Nachos and a savory Vegan Mushroom Pâté, alongside premium wines.
Skinner Vineyards: Spring is the perfect time to embrace the beauty of the outdoors and what better place to do that than at the park-like setting at Skinner, where nature meets fine wine for an unforgettable experience. With a breathtaking view of Fair Play and music on the patio, guests will be offered a tasting flight of the unique Rhône varietals. Guests will also enjoy fig jam crostini, sausage bites and more.
Toogood Cellars: Receive a flight of six wines paired with a flight of delicious artisan cheeses. Explore Placerville’s rich history while sipping delicious wines.
Toogood Estate Winery & Vineyards: Enjoy wine tasting in the expansive 5,000- squarefoot cave of the wonderful wines and delicious smoked Tri-Tip sandwiches. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to indulge in a delicious weekend.
Vista del Mirador Winery: Enjoy a special experience for those who want to deepen their knowledge of wine while discovering the Sierra Foothills region in a relaxing setting. The experience will allow visitors to share conversations with the Mirador family winemakers, sample wine and food at various small bite pairing stations, including wood fired pan pizza, Italian sausages and other treats. Guests will learn the importance of the terroir, the history of the vines and the techniques used during the wine making process.
Windwalker Vineyard: Stop by for delicious, Italian-themed pairings with the award-winning wines. There will be a library wine tasting.
El Dorado Winery Association member wineries are a select group of small, independent wineries that meet the association’s strict criteria and embody the region’s spirit. They are independent producers who are invested in the county’s agriculture and source and produce locally. They exclusively feature wines from their legal AVAs: El Dorado, Fair Play and Sierra Foothills. El Dorado wineries embrace uniqueness, diversity and excellence in wine types and styles. Visit eldoradowines.org to learn more.
The first annual Ron Mansfield Memorial Bowling Tournament was a striking success. The El Dorado Wine Grape Growers Association hosted the family friendly event at Knotty Pines Lanes
on Saturday, March 22 to raise money and build awareness of the organization’s scholarship fund and charitable efforts. The event was also sponsored by Goldbud Farms, Lava Cap Winery and Rainbow Orchards. John Pocekay was the tournament winner, with a three game series score of 566. Pocekay, who was Ron Mansfield’s bowling partner at the USBC National Amateur Championships for 50 consecutive years, also had the day’s single game top score of 225 and recorded the most strikes at 12. Braxton Wells and Elaina Pooley took the boys and girls division ‘Kids Cup’ championship with respective scores of 245 and 221. Ironically, Braxton’s father Adam Wells won the ‘Sandbag Prize’ for lowest single game adult score at just 13 pins. Other honorable mentions included Davis resident Tom Compton’s second place score of 523, and local league bowler Steve Guthrey’s third place finish of 517 pins. The kid-friendly annual bowling tournament is open to all amateur bowlers
and includes multiple prize opportunities for high scores, low scores, children, and other rare bowling feats along the way of a three game series in a tournament format.
Any student of an El Dorado County High School pursuing an education in agriculture or related field can apply for the scholarship. The award is named for Ron Mansfield who spent a career furthering the
post-prohibition re-birth of local viticulture and winemaking initially spurred by pioneers like Greg Boeger, John MacCready and Dick Bush. Mansfield, among other things, was an avid amateur bowler. The El Dorado Grape Growers Association invites the public to participate or donate. Aside from this bowling tournament, they have no 'spare' plan to support the scholarship.
File photo by Shelly Thorene Grape vines at Boeger Winery are waking up from winter.
Courtesy photo
Braxton Wells with the Kid’s Cup after a win.
CALIFORNIA RAMBLING
Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary – a very nice feeling
Barbara L. Steinberg Special to the Mountain Democrat
California claims many distinctive attractions and Osmosis Day Spa Sanctuary, in Freestone, is definitely one-of-a-kind. Leave your cares at the front door, along with your shoes, as you embark on an experience available nowhere else in the United States. There are hardly words to describe the sublime nature of this Japanese therapy — a cedar enzyme bath. This coupled with the beautiful gardens and atmosphere of the sanctuary, well, you must see it to understand just how special it is. From the moment you enter, you feel all stress begin to fall away. A sign above the garden entrance in Japanese says, “E Kimochi,” which translated means “a very nice feeling.”
The osmosis begins when your personal attendant escorts you to a Japanese-style sitting room with views of a Japanese bonsai garden and waterfall created by the owner. After serving you herbal tea mixed with enzymes, you are left to enjoy the meditative sights and sounds of the garden which is only available with cedar enzyme and spa package experiences. Following a brief respite, you are escorted to an (un)dressing room where you’ll don a warm cotton kimono; and then into the enzyme baths.
Discovered in Japan, an enzyme bath is a unique form of heat therapy that helps the body break down toxins, improves circulation and cleanses and beautifies skin. Unlike
My introduction to the world of volunteering
Pa mud bath that combines volcanic ash and peat and heat from thermal sulfur water, an enzyme bath is a mixture of fragrant cedar, rice bran, and more than 600 active enzymes and generates heat naturally through fermentation. In redwood tubs, this aromatic mixture covers bathers for 20 minutes. The blend is light and airy so hands and feet are easily exposed if you prefer less heat. Sliding glass shoji doors allow you to enjoy the Japanese rock and bonsai garden, green hills beyond, and cool, fresh air. Your ever-watchful attendant periodically wipes your face with a cold cloth and o ers you cool sips of water.
Once you are enveloped in the cedar enzyme bath you’ll wonder why you hadn’t done this sooner and ask yourself, “How soon can I do this again?” Following the bath and a shower, you can conclude with a 70-minute massage with one of several certified massage therapists. Massage rooms for singles and couples are available in the main building. However, for an additional fee, I prefer the two Japanese massage pagodas in a lovely wooded area beside the creek.
I have enjoyed Osmosis more than once over the years. The Japanese Meditation Garden includes a bed of chamomile. Could it get any better? It did with the addition of a Sound Healing Garden and its Field of Hammocks! Enhance the experience with meta-sync sound music; unique recordings that promote deep relaxation and creativity.
If you’re lucky enough to visit Friday through Monday, visit Wild Flour Bread across the road. This bakery is to bread what Osmosis is to
rior to accepting this position as program coordinator for the UC Master Gardener and UC Master Food Preserver programs of El Dorado County, celebrating National Volunteer Month would never have been on my radar. Volunteering was not something my family or friends did, and it is something I have only done in my adult life as a one-o event. Imagine my
the “ahhh” in spa. Osmosis is a treat alone, with friends with lovers. Some would say the experience is pricey, but that’s misleading. It’s not inexpensive, but it’s worth the cost and much less expensive than other spas I have visited. The ambiance is over the top. Take your time. Enjoy the drive to this darling Sonoma County hamlet. You’ll want to find a place to stay nearby while all the wonderfulness takes over. Unwind. Let go. And let Osmosis.
Recommendations:
A cedar bath and massage will last 2-3 hours. Depending on your drive time, you should plan to spend the night nearby; you’ll be too relaxed to drive home. Or arrive a day early and spend two nights. No need to rush, enjoy the beauty of West Sonoma County, and explore
charming villages like Occidental and Jenner-by-Sea. Fresh seafood, of course, is a big attraction in Bodega Bay. On our recent visit and winter escape, we found quiet comfort at the Bodega Bay Inn, just a short drive from Freestone and Osmosis. A local culinary destination, Terrapin Creek Café, is a short walk across their parking lot. Journey up Coleman Valley Road to another singular experience at Western Hills Garden. This twisting and winding road will take you over the Sonoma hills to spectacular views stretching out to the ocean and down to Jenner. Relaxed and rejuvenated the idyllic Sonoma countryside awaits. Osmosis Day Spa & Sanctuary is just one hour north of San Francisco and just minutes away from Bodega Bay and the scenic Pacific Coast Highway.
2025
Applications will be accepted until the
is
review date for applications will be held on May 12, 2025. An application can be printed from the District website at www.gd-pud.org or request an application by emailing Stephanie Beck at slbeck@gd-pud.org. Return a completed application to the District office by mail, or email to: slbeck@gd-pud.org. Georgetown Divide Public Utility District P.O. Box 4240, Georgetown, CA. 95634 For further information call (530) 333-4356 or visit our website at www.gd-pud.org
surprise when, upon learning more about this position, I realized I would be working with volunteers who consistently and regularly volunteer their time to these UC Cooperative Extension programs. What are these programs and what do the volunteers do? Throughout California, folks are discovering important answers to big questions, but what many may not know is that those answers can take years before they become common knowledge to the public. That is a long time to wait for information that might be useful to us today. In 1914, the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources began establishing cooperative extension programs throughout California to bridge the gap between UC research in agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, youth development and practical education to the public. That’s where our UC Cooperative Extension volunteers come in.
First, before they even begin to volunteer, they must successfully complete a rigorous training course for the program. For the volunteers of the UC Master Gardener program this entails learning researchbased knowledge and information about home horticulture, pest management,
sustainable landscape practices and how to share that with their community. For the volunteers of the UC Master Food Preserver program this entails learning researchbased, best practices in safely preserving food in the home, reducing food waste, increasing food security and how to share that with their community. Once they have successfully completed the training they begin to help with the program mission through public education, outreach, partnerships and other projects.
Over the last year, these El Dorado County volunteers devoted their expertise, energy and more than 20,000 hours of their time to these programs and reached 12,000plus members of the
community. I am constantly impressed by the volunteers I work with and admire their passion and dedication.
As someone new to the volunteering world and as a coordinator for these programs, I wanted to know: what is the best part about being a volunteer?
What keeps them coming back year after year?
The common response I received is that these programs provide a sense of belonging, a place where you can regularly interact with people who share a similar passion and then you get to share that passion with members of the community.
To all the volunteers out there making a di erence, I give my thanks. To the volunteers I work with,
you are phenomenal and I truly appreciate all that you do.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead For more information on these programs, you can visit these websites.
UC Master Gardeners of El Dorado County: mgeldorado.ucanr.edu Sherwood Demonstration Garden: ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_ Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden UC Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County: ucanr.edu/ site/ucce-master-foodpreservers-centralsierra UC Master Gardeners of the Lake Tahoe Basin: ucanr.edu/site/ uc-master-gardenerslake-tahoe-basin
Join us on Saturday, April 26, for the annual ornamentals plant sale at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville. There is a $2 parking fee. Master Gardener classes are o ered monthly throughout the county. You can find a schedule at mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Calendar and recorded classes on many gardening topics here: mgeldorado.ucanr. edu/Public_Education/ Classes. Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the Ask a Master Gardener option on mgeldorado.ucanr. edu/Ask_a_Master_ Gardener or call (530) 621-5512.
Photo courtesy of Osmosis
an additional fee Osmosis has two massage pagodas in a wooded area beside a creek.
Haley O’Mara Master Gardener and Master Food Preserver program coordinator
Courtesy photos
UC Master Gardeners and Master Food Preservers volunteers donate thousands of hours each year to educate the public.
“I’ve noticed some changes, and care about your well-being...”
Tips for Talking With Your Loved Ones About Assisted Living.
We all want the best for our aging parents. When we start to notice changes in their daily routines, like di culty with household tasks, missing meals, or isolation, it may be time to start talking about Assisted Living. By approaching the topic with compassion and openness, you can help ease the transition and make it a collaborate, positive experience for everyone.
The following tips can guide conversations with family members to help determine whether Assisted Living might offer the supportive environment needed for a safer, more comfortable lifestyle.
Choose the Right Moment: Find a calm, quiet time when everyone is relaxed and free from distractions.
Express at You Care: Start by a rming your love and concern. Emphasize that your goal is to ensure their comfort, safety, and happiness.
Be Honest and Empathetic: Share your observations gently, focusing on the bene ts of additional support rather than on any limitation.
Listen Actively: Encourage them to share their feelings and concerns. Validate emotions and be patient with their responses.
Provide Information: Share details about the community, such as the quality of care, activities available, and testimonials from others, if available. O er to tour a facility together to see rsthand what’s available.
Reassure eir Independence: Let them know that Assisted Living is designed to support their independence rather than take it away.
Take it Step-by-Step: Frame the conversation as the beginning of an ongoing discussion, rather than a nal decision. is allows time for adjustment and further exploration together.
Ponté Palmero is here to help your family through the process.
