Mountain Democrat, Monday, April 22, 2024

DANCE PROGRAM CUT

Students, faculty question Prop. 28 fund use

League to Save Lake Tahoe, known for its slogan, Keep Tahoe Blue, has supported the ordinance and hopes the change inspires sustainable thinking.

“I think when we put the best foot forward in Tahoe by not o ering single-use plastic water bottles for sale,” said the league’s Marilee Movius. “It really shows to the people in our community and that are visiting, that plastics are not the Tahoe way.”

The senior community engagement manager said the Tahoe way is using alternatives to single-use plastic, choosing reusables, drinking Tahoe tap, leaving places better than when they were found, and picking up litter.

“All of these actions really help keep Tahoe blue and protect the lake for future generations,” Movius explained.

The South Lake Tahoe City Council updated its ordinance in October 2022, banning the sale of single-use plastic water bottles within city limits, with an exception for emergencies. The ban applies to bottles less than one gallon and does not include sparkling or flavored waters.

The city implemented the ban in phases, starting last year on Earth Day for city facilities, citya liated events and city concessionaires.

The next phase goes citywide for all commercial vendors April 22.

Fines for violating the ordinance are up to $100 for the first violation, $200 for the second and $500 for each additional violation within one year.

Linda Ellen (Moule)

Peterson

Jan. 15, 1942 – Dec. 8, 2023

Linda Ellen (Moule) Peterson of Placerville, CA passed on Dec. 8, 2023 at the age of 81 after a long battle with cancer.

Linda was born in the hills of Luzon, Philippines during WWII and was interned with her parents and siblings until liberated at the age of 3, returning to Grass Valley, CA, where she grew up and graduated from Mount Saint Mary’s Academy in 1960. She married Richard Kline and raised her four children in Springfield, OR.

Linda is survived by her husband of 38 years, Mark Petersen of Placerville, son Bill Kline of Washougal, WA, son Richard Kline of Ocean Springs, MS, daughter Janet (Kline) Blanchfill of Drain, OR, and preceded by her youngest son David Kline. Linda’s surviving siblings are Bill Moule of Red Blu , Eileen Laca of Parma, ID, Jim Moule and Tim Moule of Grass Valley, Mike Moule of Auburn, Carole Holmes of Boise, ID, John Moule of Elk Grove, and Terrance Moule of El Dorado, CA.

The family will host an open-house celebration of Linda’s life on May 18, 3-5 pm at 2881 Creekview Lane, Hidden Springs Mobile Home Park, Placerville.

Rhonda Lee Wehe

April 13, 1934 – March 27, 2024

Rhonda Lee Wehe, 89 of Placerville passed away in the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 27, 2024 with her family at her side. Rhonda had su ered from Alzheimer’s disease for over a decade. Rhonda was preceded in death by both her parents and 8 of her 9 siblings. she also lost her loving husband Arthur “Jack” Wehe as well as two of their sons. Rhonda and Jack were married for more than 50 years. Together they shared 10 children, 31 grandchildren and 38 great grandchildren. Rhonda always wanted a big family and because of her easygoing and loving heart she had gained the love of many who called her Ma or Grandma even after one visit. She was immensely proud of that. Rhonda was born in San Jose, CA where she lived until 1941 when her family moved to Placerville. Except for a small amount of time she lived the rest of her life there. She attended Smith Flat School and El Dorado High School. She loved living in El Dorado County and had made many lifelong friends throughout the years. She will be very missed.

Dale Michael Korzan Jr.

March 14, 1951 – March 17, 2024

Dale Michael Korzan Jr., passed away on March 17, 2024. He is survived by his wife Edith Ford Korzan, his daughter Eva Korzan, and his brothers Patrick Korzan and Theodore Korzan. Despite being partially paralyzed after a stroke 15 years ago, he lived life to the fullest, traveling, enjoying Rock N Roll, and engaging in meaningful discussions about math, philosophy and science.

Dale was a mathematician with a fruitful teaching career at universities in New York City and globally, including the university of the Virgin Islands and Lycee de Wum in Cameroon West Africa. After obtaining his BA in math from the university of Utah (1976), he and Edith volunteered with the US Peace Corps in West Africa. He pursued further studies at the City University of New York (CUNY), earning his MA and completing all but dissertation (ABD) for his PH.D. Dale specialized in Knot Theory, mathematical application to complex structures like DNA and quantum gravity.

Dale also known as Mike, grew up in Placerville, CA where his family operated Sanitex Cleaners on Main Street for over 70 years. He cherished exploring El Dorado County’s rich history and landscape with his brothers & friends. He excelled in mathematics and played football at El Dorado High School.

Dale embraced both his parent’s family heritages. His father, Dale Sr., a WWII veteran, descended from Czech pioneers who settled the plains of South Dakota, farming & ranching still to this day. His mother, Ida, held fast to her Tuscan roots and Italian culture of San Francisco, she taught Italian language classes and held Italian family celebrations. Dale held strong ties with both sides of his family and will be sorely missed by loved ones.

Dale Korzan Jr. had two children, Eva Michelle Korzan and Paul Lars Korzan, raising them both in Brooklyn, NY. He loved spending time with them, sharing travels with them to many natural wonders of the United States, including archaeological sites of the West and Southeast. His last few years he enjoyed his home in Highland, NY in the beautiful natural setting of the Hudson Valley. Dale Michael Korzan Jr., will be dearly missed by friends & family, but continuously loved by them.

All donations in his memory, please send to UNICEF. A family memorial of his life will be held at the Pleasant Valley Community Grange Hall o of Pleasant Valley Rd on May 4th, 2024 from 3pm to 6pm. Friends & family are welcome.

Taylen Robert Claude

Brooks

March 3, 2003 – March 23, 2024

Taylen Robert Claude Brooks gave his life defending his brother Wyatt and himself from a mountain lion attack near Georgetown, California, on March 23, 2024.

The natural bond between the two was made stronger by the time they spent together in the great outdoors, hunting deer and turkey in season, casting for bass and trout all summer long. They lived that rarest of things in the modern era, what Teddy Roosevelt called The Strenuous Life. They ate what they bagged, and at times, bagged entirely what they ate. Right down to roasted pigeons and squirrel fricassee. Their wonder at nature didn’t end there—at the time of the incident that took Taylen’s life, the brothers were on a National Forest Service road searching for fallen deer antlers, another pastime they shared together every spring. Taylen in particular was a master at spotting the truly di cult finds, the nubs and spikes way down deep in the grass and du . He had an eye for the subtle, for the signs of the creatures that weren’t yet spectacular, but one day would be.

He also had an ear, for music. When he wasn’t immersed in the outdoors, Taylen was immersed in the guitar. Self-taught from a ridiculously young age, he had an intuitive understanding of how to play almost instantly what he’d just heard, no matter how technical it might be to a seasoned pro, or how impossible to the rest of us. He had speed, he had timing, he had dexterity. Like it was nothing. Van Halen and Pink Floyd, Nirvana and Pearl Jam—if he heard it, he learned it, incredibly quickly, and he could play it right back… like it was nothing. If he’d eventually wound up at Madison Square Garden, or the Royal Albert Hall, nobody would have been surprised.

Taylen grew up in the mountain foothills and vineyard country of southern El Dorado County. He attended Pioneer Elementary School and Mountain Creek Middle School in Somerset, California, and graduated from Union Mine High School in El Dorado, California, in 2022. In addition to his guitar chops, he was noted among his classmates for being caring, compassionate, and kind.

He worked with his dad, Aaron, painting houses and cutting firewood. He also planned to pursue a license to operate heavy equipment—although he might well have become a bona fide guitar hero first.

Taylen is survived by his mother, Amanda Welsh; his father and stepmother, Aaron and Stacy (Merrill) Brooks; sister Sydney and brothers Wyatt and D.J.; grandparents Curtis and Marie Brooks of Granbury, Texas; Je and LaVon Stewart of Sacramento, California; Charlie and Laura Callahan of Savannah, Tennessee; Gordon and June Merrill of Mount Aukum, California; and a passel of aunts, uncles, cousins and close family friends who continue to love Taylen, and will always cherish him.

Taylen went to Heaven far too soon, but his immense bravery remains a legacy for eternity. He’s a hero to all who had the pleasure to know him, and he’s a legend to the entire world.

A support fund has been established through the El Dorado County Community Foundation— donations can be made at https://bit.ly/ BrooksBrothersSupportFund.

Taylen’s Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on April 24, 2024, at Green Valley Community Church, 3500 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville, California.

Thomas Mercer

July 5, 1957 – Sept. 7, 2023

In loving memory of Tom Mercer, who passed away on September 7th, 2023, at home, surrounded by his family. Tom was a dedicated history and economics teacher, as well as a football, baseball, and track coach at Union Mine High School in Placerville, California, for 18 years. Prior to that, he taught social studies and coached football at Coquille High School for 5 years in Coquille, Oregon, where he met the love of his life, Patti, and became stepfather to Megan and Amy, a role he embraced with open arms and a kind heart, enriching our lives with his love, guidance, and unwavering support.

Tom’s passion for teaching was evident in his interactions with his students, whom he cared for deeply, even if his tough exterior suggested otherwise. Beyond his professional life, Tom was a loving husband to Patti, and a kind, fun, and wonderful brother to Jim and niece and nephew Sophie and Miles. He was a beloved and cherished stepfather to Megan Gonsalves and Amy Rose, and a steadfast and supportive father-in-law to Brett Gonsalves and Milo Rose. He found his greatest joy in being Papa to Jesse, Braidan, and Ryland Gonsalves, with whom he treasured every moment.

Tom was known for his loyalty, not only to his family but also to his friends and colleagues throughout his life. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In memory of Tom Mercer, a man so dear, Whose presence brought joy, year after year.

A teacher of history, economics with grace, And a coach who led with passion, in every race. At Union Mine High, for eighteen years he taught, Guiding students’ minds, with lessons sought. In Coquille High prior, for five years he led, In football, inspiring, where victories spread.

Tom’s love for teaching, a flame brightly burned, In every student’s heart, a lesson learned.

He cared deeply, though his manner was tough, His dedication to education, more than enough. A loving husband to Patti, his heart’s delight, A brother to Jim, their bond ever bright.

A beloved father figure to Megan and Amy, And a father-in-law, cherished and adored, so calmly.

But his greatest joy, in life’s rich tapestry, Was being Papa to Jesse, Braidan, and Ryland, so free.

A loyal friend and colleague, his presence a gift, In our memories forever, his spirit shall lift. Though Tom has left us, his legacy lives on, In the lives he touched, in the lessons drawn. For in every student, he leaves a spark, A reminder of his love, in each heart’s park.

Rest in peace, dear Tom, in heaven’s embrace, Your legacy of love, time cannot erase.

Forever remembered, in stories and in song, In our hearts, you’ll forever belong.

South Lake Tahoe Sustainability Coordinator Sara Letton doesn’t anticipate any issues with the transition.

“Community sentiment seems to be very supportive, overall,” Letton said as the city, in partnership with the league, has been engaging the community with door-todoor education campaigns at local businesses, providing mailings, emails and conducting social media campaigns.

One message to residents and tourists has been encouraging them to choose to refuse single-use plastics and, as the billboards and signs say, “Drink Tahoe Tap” instead.

The Tahoe Water Suppliers Association provides Tahoe Tap from minimally treated rain and snowmelt. The award-winning drinking water provided at no cost at refill stations is music to the ears, especially if you listen to the song about it, “If you find yourself in Tahoe, turn on the tap. It’s the finest drink of water in the world and that’s a fact…”

With the help of city grants, businesses have installed refill stations to dispense Tahoe Tap. Thirsty people can find refill stations using the Tahoe Tap map.

The younger generation has gotten involved in outreach efforts, including SOS Outreach youth and mentors, South Tahoe High School Climate Crew students and South Tahoe High School Key Club. Together with the league, Americorps fellows from South Tahoe Public Utility District and South Tahoe Refuse, and an intern from Drink Tahoe Tap, they were able to visit 97 businesses between December and March. In order to visualize the volume of discarded single-use plastics, Americorps fellows Katie Sloan and Lily Summerville asked South Tahoe Refuse’s Recycling Buy-Back Center to accumulate plastic water bottles. Over

the course of one morning, about four hours, employees filled a 2-cubic-yard dumpster full of them. Sloan said, “It is pretty astounding the amount of volume that STR processes.”

Summerville added that changing consumer habits can be challenging but starting with single-use plastic water bottles could have a noticeable effect on the litter problem. “(Plastic bottles were) at the helm of this litter problem and the best target, at least to start with,” she said.

Movius explained that singleuse plastics are “used for just a few minutes, but then they remain in our environment forever, if they’re not properly discarded.”

Plastics don’t biodegrade and instead break down into small pieces, leaching chemicals that can damage water quality and turn into microplastics.

Between 2014 and 2023 League to Save Lake Tahoe staff and volunteers picked up 20,100 plastic bottles, 31,300 plastic caps and 163,800 unidentifiable plastic pieces.

“It’s really critical to stop this litter at its source,” noted Movius, adding that the ordinance allows businesses to become sustainability leaders.

Safeway managers said they are prepared to comply with the ordinance come April 22 and are listed on Drink Tahoe Tap’s map as a refill station.

Grocery Outlet is in the process of converting its current water fountains into refill stations. Staff there said they’ve always had a good selection of reusable water bottles and more are coming.

“I think just spreading that environmentally conscious mindset is just one of the most important things,” said Summerville.

The mindset has spread across the lake and beyond. Truckee city leaders recently adopted a similar ordinance in January. The ban goes

into effect there on Earth Day next year. Breckenridge Colorado’s singleuse plastic water bottle ban goes into effect in July.

“I think it just really shows that

the city of South Lake Tahoe has become a leader in sustainability and it’s really great to see these efforts coming to fruition,” Summerville said.

Rebecca DeGennaro, from left, left photo, were among those on duty

county youth. Distribution of this year’s lunches was headquartered at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. Sue Roth of Placerville, right photo, shows off her CASA box lunch.

Boston Abbinett with the Placerville Boys and Girls Club, left photo, gets help from Old Town Grill’s John Sanders as he loads his car up with 180 lunch boxes to give to his organization. CASA Outreach Coordinator Allison Trapp, right photo, helps distribute box lunches to fundraiser supporters.

Stop the invasion of our nation

If President Biden could announce on Nov. 1, 2024, that all student debt is forgiven, he would do so. That would surely be a way to get a few more votes. If you have a $100,000 student loan, then you have a heavy burden of paying back that loan. To suddenly have the debt cleared would be a marvelous feeling.

Would this make you feel like Biden is a great president? Would this boost your confidence in his ability to lead our nation? Or, would you see such an act as a last-ditch e ort to do whatever it takes to stay in the oval o ce for four more years?

Thousands of Americans have carried the weight of student loans for years. Thousands have paid back the loans. Loans are never fun to pay back. Car payments, house payments and credit card debt are tough to carry for years and years. Is it fair that many Americans have paid o student debt but suddenly thousands of Americans could have a large portion of their debt wiped away? It doesn’t seem fair. Is it good for America? Many more Americans need to borrow money for college. Paying back student loans is one way to keep money circulating back into the government co ers. What if someone paid back 75% of their loan in 10 years then the other 25% would be forgiven? What about a 2% or 3% interest rate on student loans? What if people went to community colleges their first two years? There has to be a better way than just waving the magic wand and clearing debt to boost popularity.

Interest rates are going to come down between now and Nov. 1. A 30-year mortgage by Nov. 1 will be closer to 6%. The stock market is roaring. If you have some money in stock then you have to be enjoying the increase. What goes up always comes down some, eventually. Don’t look for it to go down much between now and Nov. 1.

The one thing President Biden doesn’t seem to want to do is stop the invasion of America. The invasion of America continues. Allowing up to 8,500 illegals per day is not a fix.

Outlaw gangs have taken over parts of South America in Columbia and Venezuela and parts

Letters to the Editor

Good court decision

EDITOR:

The recent unanimous U.S. Supreme court decision in the Sheetz v. El Dorado County case is a victory and a lifting of an unjust bureaucratic economic burden experienced by taxpayers wanting to build their own home on their property. George Sheetz reclaiming his $23,420 illegally levied by El Dorado County bureaucrats may not be significant at face value but demonstrates that elected o cials and government administrators cannot impose a fee or place unjustified burdens on property owners.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett sums this up in the court’s ruling, “There is no basis for a ording property rights less protection in the hands of legislators than administrators. The Takings Clause applies equally to both — which means that it prohibits legislatures and agencies alike from imposing unconstitutional conditions on land-use permits.”

A significant problem with having a building department that incorrectly applies and outright violates the law, complemented by a series of elected supervisors who have refused to hold these county agencies accountable, is the average person who invests their life savings in building their home has their dream squashed. The average taxpayer cannot a ord the government extortion allowed for years by senior level county sta members in the Building Department, County Counsel’s O ce and the Chief Administrative O ce. This kind of purposeful mismanagement empowers large developers who can a ord the fees and pass the cost on to homebuyers and pushes young families out of the local housing market because the exorbitant fees make housing too expensive.

Instead of having a moment of self-reflection and correcting the corruption regarding the

incorrect collection of impact fees, the county seems to be doubling down on its bizarre way of doing business. Deputy CAO and Communications O cer Carla Hass states, “It explicitly leaves open the county’s other strong defenses and casts no doubt on whether local government can continue to impose reasonable permitting conditions (including impact fees) on new development under their traditional land-use authority.”

The argument was never about whether the county can collect an impact fee, but whether the county can do so without justifying an actual impact by a home being built. Ms. Hass’ statement is rubbing on the verge of delusion and is reminiscent of wealthy passengers sitting on the top deck of the Titanic trying to justify to each other that the ship is unsinkable even after it hit the iceberg.

Hardworking taxpayers need to remember the county is not the only local government entity collecting impact fees. Schools are as well. The same group that helped George Sheetz begin his legal battle years ago also met with public school administrators, letting them know they are incorrectly collecting school impact fees. This is due to most school districts having declining enrollment. Now that the Sheetz case has been ruled on, the school impact fees collected throughout our county and state need to be revisited. Taxpayers deserve this and our children’s future depends on it.

TODD WHITE El Dorado

Celebrating Title IX and bending the arc of justice

On March 25, 1965, the Reverend Martin Luther King stood on the steps of the state capitol in Montgomery, Ala., and declared that “…the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” We cannot know for sure, but it is doubtful Dr. King was thinking about women’s college basketball when he uttered those prophetic words.

Congress had, the year before, passed the comprehensive — but incomplete — Civil Rights Act of 1964. Not long after King’s speech in Montgomery, which came as the culmination of the historic march from Selma and the battles on the Edmund Pettus Bridge, Congress passed and President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965, thus bending the arc even more. Yet, it had not bent enough, especially insofar as women were concerned. A big step forward in the direction of justice occurred in 1972 when Congress, pushed hard by Rep. Patsy Mink (D-HI), added Title IX to the federal Higher Education Act. Outside grassroots lobbying, led by tennis icon Billie Jean King, played a crucial role in the bill’s passage. It was signed into law by President

Richard Nixon.

Importantly, we must recall that every one of these steps, the bending of the arc toward justice, came despite fierce opposition. Arch segregationists, mostly southern Democrats at the time, fought every measure aimed at ensuring civil rights for Black Americans. So, too, did Republican leaders of that era, including Barry Goldwater and Ronald Reagan. The struggle for women’s rights also faced opposition from right-wingers. Recall Phyllis Schlafly’s loud and pungent argument against the Equal Rights Amendment, which remains unratified due to conservative opposition.

Regardless, no statute, no matter how e ectively advocated or wellcrafted, means a whole lot without defining and enforceable regulations. And with Title IX, that task fell to the leadership and civil servants at the then-Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Although Nixon had signed Title IX, it is fair to say his appointees at HEW were in no rush to draft or promulgate the kind of “regs” that would give the law teeth.

The bureaucracy went into a fourcorner stall until President Jimmy Carter’s first Secretary of HEW, Joe

Califano, started to get things moving in 1977. Califano’s e orts met with a firestorm of resistance from the NCAA, amplified by conservative political voices.

Press accounts reported, at the NCAA convention of 1978, keynote speaker, Dr. William E. Davis, president of the University of New Mexico, riled up his audience with fiery rhetoric, claiming, “A crisis of unprecedented magnitude is coming.” In an almost unanimous resolution, convention delegates charged that the HEW formula was “unrealistic and unworkable.” The association backed up its talk with a lawsuit, which lost in federal court.

Even after winning the lawsuit, Secretary Califano called a timeout. Then, in the summer of 1979 as part of a larger shake up of his administration, President Carter requested and received Califano’s resignation and replaced him with then-Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Patricia Harris.

Lucky for Ms. Harris, and all women athletes since, one of the sta she inherited was Jodie Bernstein, the agency’s general counsel. Bernstein counseled Secretary Harris to hit the Title IX issue head-on, to issue regulations that made adherence to

the law mandatory and measurable.

Fast forward four decades-plus to 2021 and what we now know as March Madness. That year the Women’s Final Four was in San Antonio, the Men’s in Indianapolis.

A recent article in USA Today

Although Nixon had signed Title IX, it is fair to say his appointees at HEW were in no rush to draft or promulgate the kind of “regs” that would give the law teeth. ■

recounted how Sedona Prince, a player on the Oregon women’s team, posted a video on social media that showed the vast discrepancy between facilities and equipment at the two locations. The post “quickly exploded into one of the biggest public relations crises in [NCAA’s] history.”

Again, according to USA Today, “Within anything where there has been significant change in our country or the world, often it is initiated by something — a crisis or an inflection point,” said NCAA vice president of women’s basketball Lynn Holzman. “I believe that with our championship in 2021, it was that…. It did initiate, I think, a lot of selfreflection by all the di erent levels of our sport.”

The arc of justice had been bent once more. 2024’s “Madness” is now behind us, and the arc was transformed in ways we are all just starting to

Hills

GLENN MOLLETTE

Mollette Continued from A4 of central America. Gangs have taken over Haiti. The cartel seems to roam freely in Mexico. These outlaws are coming into America. Violence, stealing and killing are all they know. They will fight with and kill police o cers, assault and murder women, steal from you and terrorize our communities. Most of our small American counties are understa ed to protect citizens from gangs armed with semi-automatic weapons. The invasion must be stopped today. Border states deserve all the help the federal government can give in securing the borders immediately instead of making it di cult on the states.

Francis Continued from A4

appreciate. To start, Forbes reports the NCAA Women’s Tournament “… set viewing records across all six rounds.” Moreover, the championship game between South Carolina and Iowa averaged 19 million viewers and peaked at 24 million. Which was higher than the men’s championship game between UConn and Purdue.

1965’s Selma March and Dr. King’s speech in Montgomery provided a necessary inflection point in moving America toward the “more perfect union” most of us desire and seek. Bernstein and Harris, without anything close to the same

Soon there will be so many illegals from China and throughout the world in our country that we will not have enough police or military to protect ourselves. We see this happening before our very eyes.

The issues of student loans, interest rates, gasoline prices, inflation and much more impact our lives significantly. Nothing is impacting our nation like the invasion.

Please, Mr. President and Congress, stop the invasion of our nation.

Glenn Mollette is an author and national columnist. Learn more at GlennMollette.com.

fanfare, did the same in 1979. Prince did it in San Antonio in 2021 and the women athletes of Iowa, Connecticut, NC State and South Carolina added another crucial one earlier this month. A welldeserved and overdue tip of the cap to them.

Les Francis served as a senior aide on Capitol Hill and was deputy assistant to the president and deputy chief of sta in the Carter White House. After a lengthy career as a public a airs and communications consultant in Washington, D.C., Francis and his wife retired to Camino.

AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the rst Wednesday of the month at 6:00

6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

LEARN & PLAY CRIBBAGE

Cribbage is a fun, fast paced game that will surely keep you on your toes! **All skill levels **Learn to play by ACC Rules (American Cribbage Congress) **Beginner instruction available **Compete in weekly Cribbage tournaments. Call 916-7684452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at Moni Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/

DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.

GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Cindy 805-540-8654.

MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. For more information, call (530) 622-1180.

Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet rst and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for

“It was a grind but I love the sport,” Melton said. “I could see myself improving and I know I could make the top teams if I continue.”

The Capital Thunder is a hockey team that suffered only three losses this season en route to the state championship for the 16U A team.

Perry Melton began playing hockey at the age of 8; coaches said he was too old as most kids start much younger.

being told he would have to make up for lost time, Melton began rigorous training. Melton would leave his home in Georgetown at 4 a.m, make his way to the ice rink in Roseville for an hour practice and then get back home in time to get ready for school. After school was out, he would have his second practice of the day. This was his routine twice a week for two years. Melton’s dedication primed him to be the best goalie he could be for his California Amateur Hockey Association State Championship squad this past season.

Through a 14-game season, the Thunder finished with an overall record of 10-3-1, with dominance on both ends of the ice. The Thunder squad scored the second most goals in its league while allowing the fewest, giving them a goal differential of +61, meaning they scored 61 more goals than they allowed. Although Melton was the one in goal stopping shots, he gives a lot of credit to his defensemen.

Now that this season has come to an end, Melton has his eyes set on playing for an 18u team next season, while also looking to compete for a spot on a junior national team.

“I’m always excited to go into it, just another high level of hockey,” Melton said.

cafeteria before the meeting began.

As the course calendar for Union Mine’s 2024-25 school year was being set, Caitlin Rubini was informed she would no longer be teaching dance, the class she had been teaching since she started working at the school. Rubini is close to finishing her ninth year teaching the dance program, and had just finished lending her time as choreographer for the school’s production of “Peter Pan” when she learned she would only be teaching English classes next year.

“We all lift each other up here in this room,” Rubini said prior to the meeting, her eyes tearing up as she looked around the Union Mine dance studio, a room that would now be left effectively abandoned come the start of next year. “One person’s success is everyone’s success. Most of my seniors have been here all four years, and almost every single day, one student will come up to me and say they only came to school today because of my class. And that’s the hardest part. I have been so interested in pursuing the continued strength and viability of this program because when I was in high school, programs like this are what kept me going to school. What I’ve been doing over the last decade is providing a platform for kids that makes them want to come to school.

“It adds to my frustration, feeling that the arts on this campus and district have been undervalued to the point that I am worthless and the efforts I’ve been putting in have been a waste of everybody’s time. It makes me feel like it’s all been in vain.”

The planned discontinuation of the UMHS dance program comes at a time when visual and performing arts programs (VAPA) across the state are expecting increased support and funding as a result of the Nov. 8, 2022, passage of Proposition 28. Passed by California voters by a notable margin — more than 64% in favor, a record high for an education funding ballot initiative, according to EdSource — the law increased funding for VAPA programs in K-12 schools by close to $1 billion total annually. Although the funds began to be distributed to schools in 2023, teachers, students and parents are asking where the money has gone, and why programs are being cut.

“When I saw Prop. 28 on the ballot, I had never been more excited to vote for something,” local performing artist and substitute teacher Rick Silver said during public comment at the EDUHSD board meeting. “Scratch that; there was that one thing about high-speed rail to L.A. But now with Prop. 28, like that train, I’m not seeing anything happen.”

As part of their call for answers, members of the Union Mine community came to the EDUHSD meeting dressed in red as a sign of solidarity with Rubini.

The language of the initiative and subsequent guidance given from the state to schools through their districts and offices of education indicates the money apportioned to schools is intended to be additional funds in the budget rather than replacement funds. “Supplement, not supplant” is the guiding phrase, explained in multiple fact sheets such as the Nov. 11, 2022, State Legislative and Budget Update published by the California Association of Administrators of State and Federal Education Programs. The way additional funds are meant to be distributed is kept largely open to the discretion of the schools, but with clear guidelines on how much of the money can be spent on different categories. For schools with more

President of Union Mine’s drama club, senior Leana Sorensen, right, photo above, spoke before the EDUHSD Board of Trustees with the support of senior Oakley Barnes against the removal of the dance program at her school. Many of the students who spoke before the board mentioned that their elective classes were often the only reason they went to school. “Kids go to school because of electives. They put up with whatever they don’t like because there is something that is important to them,” said Oak Ridge teacher and Faculty Association President Eric Larsen, left photo. Larsen expressed concerns regarding a lack of clarity in the district’s plans for the use of Proposition 28 funds.

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

than 500 students, the law says 80% of Prop. 28 funds should be spent “to employ certified or classified employees to provide arts education instruction.” Some 19% of the remaining funds could be spent on training, supplies and materials, while only 1% of the funds could be spent on administrative expenses.

In order to ensure schools are adhering to the rules regarding Prop. 28 funds, they are expected to approach the use of the money with transparency and are subject to an audit by the California Department of Education. However, EDUHSD’s approach has so far been murky, according to UM theatre teacher Heather Freer.

In addition to Union Mine’s plan to discontinue its dance class offerings, “(At) El Dorado High School, there are no new arts classes,” Freer told the EDUHSD board. “Access and equity are vital for students. Parents are supposed to have been polled on how these Prop. 28 funds are to be used. As a parent, I am still waiting. As a teacher, I am still asking for answers.

“Access is everything. There are students who get involved in VAPA courses whose futures are suddenly lit up like a runway. We have former students topping Spotify charts, singing the national anthem at Angels games ... and performing with professional dance companies. We are a Title 1 school and we so proudly teach our students how to fly. Don’t tell them they don’t deserve it.”

Oak Ridge professor and Faculty Association President Eric Larsen also voiced his concerns regarding a lack of clarity on Prop. 28 spending in El Dorado County.

“Sports always seems to find money. We were looking forward to seeing that Prop. 28 money come in for other programs. I’m not sure if there are clear plans as to how the money will be used,” Larsen said. “We’re really hoping to see some of those numbers soon. Most of it, as you know, needs to be spent on faculty. I expect you have a lot of blue comment cards tonight regarding Union Mine’s dance program. Even though they are not a district program, they are a site program, and those sites answer to you.”

The public comment portion of the EDUHSD meeting came after a series of awards celebrating the efforts of sports teams and faculty across the district, an irony that was not lost on some of the students who spoke afterward.

“You honored all these teams here tonight. What about my team?” UM junior and drama student Sammi McDaniel asked the board.

Students took turns at the podium Tuesday night, sharing personal stories regarding how important VAPA classes, dance specifically, had been in their high school experience.

“I don’t have many friends,” freshman Gabriela Gutierrez explained. “When I came to Union Mine to do dance, I made a family. Without them, I don’t think I would have survived. In dance, I learned how to be me, and how to express myself. I have the courage to come up here because of dance.”

Some students questioned how far the cuts would go, while others described how interconnected arts classes were. Many expressed how important the collaboration between disciplines — music, drama, dance and visual art — was for the success of their plays

“VAPA is like a puzzle,” said UM senior and Drama Club President Leana Sorensen. “What do you need for a puzzle to work? All the pieces.”

An EDUHSD representative did not respond to a request for comment by press time.

COMICS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Being careful with your money can make you feel like you don’t have enough, or it can make you feel like you’re in control and have plenty. Saving for something special is the frugality that gives a feeling of richness.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Some truths are like unremarkable socks. It’s likely everyone is wearing them, they do their job, and they draw no attention. Then there’s the truth that’s a statement sock. It’s a risk to mention, and yet you feel remiss if you don’t. It does, after all, exist to be seen.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). People understand you and respect the way you get to the point. They know what you want because you say it succinctly right up top and don’t make them wait or discover.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). When it shows up, willpower is a welcome friend, though you’ve noted it can be a fair-weather friend indeed. By now you’ve learned not to waste time waiting for it; instead, you dig for more reliable fuel, like need or even stronger motivations.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Anyone with a television remote is welcome to switch from sorrow to sorrow and will be at no loss for finding ever-new ones, as they are in constant rotation. But you’ve too many delights to turn your mind to now, and you’ll enjoy them wholly.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Because the purity of your intention is felt, you won’t need to think too much about how to approach things. The perfect words just come, the ideal people want to help, and loveliness will ring through all efforts.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Your energy will rev and dip. While it’s high, try new things, share with new people and work. When it’s down, rest. Don’t caffeinate and keep going until you burn out. Your subconscious mind needs a chance to integrate all you’ve learned.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You’ll be moved to do something unusual, outside the routine, out of the norm. You can always reinvent yourself, not just out of necessity but just for fun. Learning new facets of you allows you to experience new facets of life.

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21). It’s a game today, and knowing when to advance or retreat is part of it. Which way would be more appropriate? How should you fight the good fight?

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’ve seen many kinds of praise, and because you’re doing praiseworthy things today, you’ll get at least two flavors: the kind aimed at getting a particular result (you’ll see through it) and the real deal (you’ll feel the love).

you’ll

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Mountain Democrat n mtdemocrat.com

April 22

The Bookery in Placerville hosts an Earth Day event with renowned environmental author Ben Goldfarb, author of “Eager: The Surprising Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter” and “Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of our Planet,” as well as a nature walk through downtown Placerville. The event will conclude with live music from Jacob Mingle of the Placerville co-op and oldtimey tunes from folk band Hither and Yon. For more information call (530) 6266454.

The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce and RC Henning Coffee Company host a ribbon cutting, 5:30-7 p.m. at 2558 Greenwood Lane, Suite 120, Cameron Park.

April 23

Smith Flat House in Placerville hosts live music in the courtyard with Tamra Godey. For more information call (530) 621-1003.

Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive noon to 4 p.m. The Bloodmobile will be located in the parking lot near the baseball fields at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District, 1021 Harvard Way. Make an appointment at donors. vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM019 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

Slack’n Steel Duo featuring Stephen Inglis and Barry Sless will perform at 7 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Fairytale Town in Sacramento presents the World Book Day celebration, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information visit fairytaletown.org.

The Sacramento Fine Arts Center in Carmichael presents the NCA Membership Show, April 23 through May 11. For more information visit sacfinearts.org.

April 24

Zakir Hussain, Sabir Khan and Debopriya Chatterjee will perform at 7:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts, 10 College Parkway in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter. net or call (916) 608-6888.

April 25

The Shingle SpringsCameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Red Hawk Casino in Placerville. For more information call (530) 677-8000.

April 26

The Sierra Renaissance Society presents Gold Rush 2.0 by Marc Dayton, 1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. Admission is free for members; public invited to attend two meetings for free. The Sierra Renaissance Society of El Dorado County is dedicated to lifelong learning and hosts presentations and workshops. For more information visit srsedc.org. Clerical Estate Trio will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.

Andrew Vonderschmitt Mountain Democrat correspondent

M other Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises

Inc. and the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce proudly present the eighth annual Stand Up for MORE comedy night, 5-9 p.m. on Friday, April 26. The sidesplitting fundraiser supports the dynamic programs at MORE and the important work of the chamber.

Dennis Blair will headline this year’s event. The 69-yearold comedian, songwriter, musician and screenwriter has had a long and illustrious career. Blair can boast opening for more than 150 headlining acts, including Rodney Dangerfield, Joan Rivers, Jackie Mason, Tom Jones, The Beach Boys, Melissa Manchester and more. Dangerfield took Blair under his wing early in his career, affording him many opportunities that included writing credit on the Dangerfield film “Easy Money” and writing and creative consultant credits on 1983’s lauded novelty album “Rappin’ Rodney.” Later Blair toured with legendary comedian and social critic George Carlin for more than 18 years. Today Blair is considered a “renaissance man” and best known for his satirical music and mordant humor.

Rounding out the evening Derrick Leonard will hit the stage. Hailing from the Bay Area, Leonard built a name for himself in the early ’90s, after a solid go at the road comedian life Leonard thought he was going to settle down and took a job teaching. However, the calls kept coming in. He said it was like no one knew he had hung up his mic. Leonard dipped his toe back in the comic pool recently and conceded the rust is wearing off.

The master of ceremonies and producer of the evening is Scott Edwards, returning for

Special to the Mountain Democrat

Agroup of fourthand fifth-grade students at William Brooks Elementary School in El Dorado Hills are about to step into the business world for hands-on experience and experiential learning. They are part of the William Brooks PTA’s inaugural Bear Business Fair scheduled 3:15 to 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 26, in the school gymnasium.

This parent volunteerrun effort is months in the making. Starting in December, students interested in participating began meeting regularly to think through their business ideas, test their ideas, develop a timeline and budget, explore booth presentation and learn sales techniques. Meanwhile, they worked at home by themselves or with friends to develop their businesses. A total of 27 different student-led business booths will be presented.

his eighth year at the helm. Edwards is best known for his Sacramento comedy club, Laughs Unlimited, bringing stand-up to Sac throughout the ’80s and ’90s. Today Edwards hosts a prolific podcast, “Standup Comedy ‘Your Host and MC.’” CEO Susie Davies said after the initial success of Stand Up for MORE, sponsored by Leadership El Dorado’s Class Nine, the chamber partnered up with MORE in a natural move to continue that momentum.

“This partnership has been a win/win for both organizations and the impact is extensive within this county, with the leadership of both boards of directors from the two nonprofits’ scope of influence in El Dorado County and the region,” she said.

Oftentimes, Davies likes to tell a success story of one or more clients. This year Rick Janus will be celebrated.

“This year’s story is a first, as we premiere a video performance of Rick Janus,

Kareeta will perform at 7 p.m. at The Green Room Need some ‘bear’ necessities?

The public, friends, and neighbors are invited to shop the student-created businesses. There will be many unique arts and crafts, 3D printed items, handmade jewelry and toys, games and activities like face

painting and an array of food treats, including pizzas baked on site. “I’m making purses from old jeans,” said fourth-grader Raven. “I learned how to do this from my mom’s fashion camp and it seemed like a good idea to use all the old clothes we have at home rather than buying new materials. I’m calling the business Jasper, after my cat who hangs out with me while I sew.” “The students are working so hard to bring their creative ideas to life and learning so much in the process,” said Karen Brown, event coordinator.

“We hope that many shoppers will come out to support these young entrepreneurs. In addition to all the tasty treats that will be available, it’s a perfect opportunity to find a Mother’s Day or special occasion gift, all while directly supporting a student’s real-life business experience.” The Bear Business Fair is sponsored by the William Brooks Parent Teacher Association. There is no charge to enter the event and plenty of free parking is available. The school is located at 3610

Courtesy photo Comedian Dennis Blair headlines this year’s Stand Up for MORE. Blair has worked with many comedy greats, including Rodney Dangerfield and George Carlin.

Photo by Paul Bishop Derrick Leonard put down his textbooks and picked up the mic after a comedy hiatus. He’ll be trying out his new material at the MORE show.

I“We are so grateful to our Big Brothers and Sisters who share their life experiences with the children in our community, the volunteers who offer their time and talents and, of course, the corporate sponsors, without whom we simply would not exist,” said BBBSNS Chief Executive Officer Brenda Frachiseur. “The appreciation dinner is our opportunity to thank those who give so generously throughout the year.”

Big Sis

Big Sister Michelle Petro of El Dorado Hills and Angel have been matched for the last eight years. They meet weekly or biweekly, and while they will occasionally go on grand adventures, most of the time, good company is enough.

When talking with Petro, it is evident how much support and love there is for Angel. She said she sees Angel for who she is wholeheartedly

and accepts her in a way that any person would be lucky to have. Petro has also grown close to her Little’s family over the years and is always available for Angel’s grandmother to lean on whenever she needs help — as she is doing her best to raise Angel and her sister.

Petro recounted how she had once received a call from Lisa in the middle of the night, asking her if she could help pick up Angel from sleep away camp. Petro didn’t bat an eyelash; she hopped out of bed, picked up Lisa and the two drove off into the night to go get their girl. Lisa knew she could count on Petro no matter what, and she was right. Petro volunteers for BBBSNS in a variety of different ways and is a constant reminder: “We make time for what is important.”

“We are so grateful to our Big Brothers and Sisters who share their life experiences with the children in our community ...”

— BBBSNS CEO Brenda Frachiseur

Upon asking Petro about her relationship with her Little, she related, “Angel and I were matched as she entered second grade eight years ago. Recently, she is now 15 and in her sophomore year of high school. I’ve had the pleasure of watching her blossom into a beautiful young lady. “I love that when she’s with me, she

has permission to be a kid; we still nurture the little girl in her that still has some growing to do. There’s no outside pressure to do, or be, anything in particular— just freedom to be who she is and explore her interests,” she continued. “I love exposing her to new things whether that be new adventures in dining (the little girl who only ate chicken nuggets now requests Tom kha gai soup at Thai restaurants!), roller skating, skiing, kayaking, hiking in nature, interacting with animals, artistic pursuits, anything musical (symphony, concerts, theater), and even flying in a heli-plane with Young Eagles.”

Big Bro

For the past nine years, Michael Flynn of Folsom has been a steadfast mentor and friend to his Little Brother, Joshua. His unwavering dedication and support have made a profound impact on Joshua’s life, embodying the very essence of what we value at BBBS. From the moment Flynn was matched with Joshua, then 8, he

committed himself to be a consistent presence in Joshua’s life, a guiding light through both joyous moments and challenging times, including a family tragedy. Flynn’s commitment to being there for Joshua, week in and week out, is a testament to his remarkable character.

While their meetings often involved activities like playing pool, Flynn’s mentoring extended far beyond mere pastimes. As Joshua transitioned into his teenage years, Flynn took on the role of a mentor, helping him plan for a successful future. He engaged Joshua in discussions about trades and post-high school life, providing invaluable guidance during this critical phase of his development.

One shining example of Flynn’s dedication is his instrumental role in helping Joshua obtain his driver’s license. Flynn oversaw Joshua’s driver’s education classes, coached him through the learner permit exam and celebrated with him when he passed his driving tests.

Even as Joshua approaches his 18th birthday, Flynn continues to meet with him regularly, demonstrating his intention to maintain their relationship well into the future. Furthermore, Flynn has expressed a desire to become a Big Brother

Courtesy photos

Big Brother of the Year Michael Flynn, left photo, has been a steadfast mentor and friend to his Little Brother, Joshua, for the last nine years. At right, BBBSNS Chief Executive Officer Brenda Frachiseur, left, joins Big Sister of the Year Michelle Petro for a picture at the organization’s recognition event.

Students explore Red Hawk career options

Matt Meachen

Independence High School

Independence High School students and staff were hosted by the leadership at APEX Resort at Red Hawk Casino for an educational field trip to explore the many different job/career possibilities within the establishment and to experience these possibilities with a behind-the-scenes operations tour.

The group was greeted by CEO Bryan DeLugo and his senior staff upon arrival. After introductions, staff and students toured the operations of the hotel, including bell-hop, the front desk, a hotel suite and housekeeping and linens. The warehouse and receiving area were next on the tour followed by slot machine tech repairs. Students then got a firsthand look at the gaming school, carpentry and paint department and visited the three working kitchens of the main restaurants.

At each stop, staff excitedly shared their daily operations and highlighted

the benefits of working for the Red Hawk establishment. Students also learned about the education and age requirements, background checks and other details about working in the various departments. After much touring, the entire group was treated to a wonderful lunch at Koto Buffet in a private seating area.

After lunch students visited the APEX Family Fun Center, where more operation tours were offered and job possibilities shared. APEX treated staff and students to some fun on the virtual roller coaster and other activities. Upon departure, students were given generous goodie bags that included two coupons to come back and ride the go-karts.

Multiple students spoke with DeLugo about potential employment and career paths and, as a result of this incredible tour, Red Hawk/APEX HR staff are preparing to come to Independence High School to coach interested students in the process of gaining employment upon their 19th birthday.

Dream Catchers EDH has a wonderful day program where our participants who have aged out of their programs or just want to come to us instead of their other program work on reallife skills both in the classroom and in public.

To empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDS) to live their best lives. We do this by providing opportunities for growth in character, health, social connections, and independence.

Everyone who is in our program is in the Self Determination Program (SDP).

We also have an incredible theater program that rehearses every Tuesday evening from 5:30-7. This is not part of the SDP. This program is for ages 13 and up.

For more information contact: Jonathan Reis, Founder, CEO/Executive Director, at 209-400-1334 or Racquel Hall, SDP Administrator, at 209-443-0316

Or you can email us at jonathanr@dreamcatchersedh.org or racquelh@dreamcatchersedh.org

Red Hawk Resort & Casino CEO Bryan DeLugo, center poses with Independence High School students before taking them on a tour.

The Jupiter String Quartet to take stage at Sac State

concert by New Millennium Concert Series at California State University, Sacramento, on April 24.

Based in Urbana and giving concerts all over the country, the Jupiter String Quartet is a particularly intimate group, consisting of violinists Nelson Lee and Meg Freivogel, violist Liz Freivogel (Meg’s older sister) and cellist Daniel McDonough (Meg’s husband, Liz’s brotherin-law). Brought together by ties both familial and musical,

the Jupiter Quartet has been performing together for 23 years. Exuding an energy that is at once friendly, knowledgeable, and

adventurous, the quartet celebrates every opportunity to bring their close-knit and lively style to audiences. Their connections to

each other and the length of time they’ve shared the stage always shine through in their intuitive performances.

The Jupiter Quartet

brings its well-honed musical chemistry to three works that span more than 225 years, highlighting a range of musical

styles and unique personal experiences; each of which directly influenced how the composers approached their respective musical ideas. The program includes: W.A. Mozart’s String Quartet No. 21 in D Major, K. 575 (1789); Antonin Dvorák’s String Quartet No. 14 in A-flat Major, Op. 105 B. 193 (1895); and Su Lian Tan’s Life in Wayang (2002).

Mozart wrote several of his later string quartets for the King of Prussia, Frederick Wilhelm II, who was an accomplished cellist. This explains the particular prominence of the cello line and the elevation of all four voices to greater equality in general. The joyful interplay of the K. 575 quartet is a perfect example of this more democratic structure.

Next on the program will be Su Lian Tan’s vivid Life in Wayang, which evokes sounds

n See QUARTET, page B5

Todd Rosenberg Photography

The Jupiter String Quartet has played all over the world and earned numerous accolades. See the group Wedensday in Sacramento.

SAFE Credit to provide workforce development grant

FOLSOM — SAFE Credit Union will provide a $20,000 grant to a greater Sacramento region nonprofit with programs that support workforce development in underserved communities.

Nonprofits can apply for the community grant through Friday, May 10, and find the application form at safecu.org/community/

Quartet Continued from B4

of traditional South Asian shadow puppet theater. The music is filled with percussive effects that imitate the sounds of the traditional gamelan ensemble. Dvorák’s exuberant and expansive A-flat Major Quartet will finish the program, and its folksy style showcases his joy in returning, after a long visit to America, to his beloved homeland of Czechoslovakia.

The Jupiter Quartet says of bringing this musically diverse program to the community of California State University, Sacramento: “We are pleased to bring these vivid and engaging works to the audience in Sacramento, and happy that we will get to share both more familiar works and fresher ones. These three works showcase a great variety of sounds and timbres that the string quartet can create, from the refined, operatic beauty of Mozart to the bright, percussive brilliance of the gamelanlike sounds in Life in Wayang.”

This tight-knit ensemble is firmly established as an important voice in the world of chamber music. Artistsin-residence at the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana since 2012, the Jupiter Quartet maintain private studios and direct the university’s chamber music program.

The Jupiter Quartet has performed in some of the world’s finest halls,

Know Continued from B1

Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

The Sacramento Theatre Company presents Make Then Hear You: Uplifting Black Voices, April 26 through May 5 on the Cabaret Stage in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-6722 or visit sactheatre.org.

City Theatre at Sacramento City College presents “Emilia,” April 26 through May 11. For tickets and more information visit CityTheatre.net.

April 27

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts the ornamental plant sale 8 a.m. to noon at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive in Placerville. Find succulents, shrubs, trees, ornamental, native plants and more. Check the inventory preview at mgeldorado.ucanr. edu.

Join the Rise & Shine Community Day of Service, 8 a.m. to noon. Join other fun-loving volunteers as they clean up, fix up and spruce up parks and community spaces. Choose your work site and meet there at 8 am. we work in the sunshine for a few hours and then gather for a picnic at Lions Park. For more information visit placerville-riseandshine-2020. eventbrite.com.

An entire battalion of military headstones at Placerville Union Cemetery, many dating back to the Civil War, are lichenencrusted to the point of illegibility, leaning precariously, or both. Join the Headstone Party and learn how to clean

community-impact/funding/ community-sustainability-grantapplication-1.

“Having an educated and prepared workforce supports a strong regional economy, as well as helps ensure that families earn incomes that help them build financial freedom,” said SAFE Vice President Community Relations and Financial Education Rebecca Delmundo. “But not everyone has equitable access to higher education or work training programs that provide skills that match many businesses’ current needs. SAFE looks forward to supporting a nonprofit organization that provides programs and services that open pathways to well-compensated and meaningful careers.”

including New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, London’s Wigmore Hall, Boston’s Jordan Hall, Mexico City’s Palacio de Bellas Artes, Washington, D.C.’s Kennedy Center and Library of Congress, Austria’s Esterhazy Palace and Seoul’s Sejong Chamber Hall. Its major music festival appearances include the Aspen Music Festival and School, Bowdoin International Music Festival, Cape Cod Chamber Music Festival, Rockport Music Festival, Music at Menlo, the Seoul Spring Festival, and many others. Its chamber music honors and awards include the grand prizes in the Banff International String Quartet Competition and the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition; the Young Concert Artists International auditions in New York City; the Cleveland Quartet Award from Chamber Music America; an Avery Fisher Career Grant; and a grant from the Fromm Foundation. From 200710, the group was in residence at the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s Chamber Music Two.

The concert begins at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, April 24, at the CSUS Capistrano Hall, 6000 J St. in Sacramento. For tickets visit csus.edu/ college/arts-letters/music/spotlight/ new-millennium.html.

these historical headstones, 9 a.m. to noon. Sign up in advance by emailing info@ savethegraveseldorado.org.

El Dorado Hills Community Services District invites baseball and softball players of all skills and abilities to participate in the fourth annual Pitch, Hit, and Run competition at Promontory Park. The official skills competition of Major League Baseball will put young ball player’s fundamental skills to the test. This free event is open for anyone ages 7-14 to compete. For more information call (916) 933-6624 ext. 0.

Now

Marshall Hospital Auxiliary is looking for volunteers. Help people and make new friends. Interviews are held monthly. For more information call Norma at (530) 676-1844 or email

grizzyq98@gmail.com.

Registration is now open for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra Golf for Kids Sake tournament and fundraiser at the Serrano Country Club on May 20. To register call (530) 626-1222, ext. 104, or visit bbbsns.org/events/golf-event.

Registration is now open for the Bist Sandigo Golf Tournament at the Cameron Park Country Club June 10. For more information and to register call (916) 798-4746 or visit purelyhope.org.

Registration is now open for the 41st annual Bob West Drive for Marshall golf tournament scheduled for June 21 and hosted once again at Cold Springs Golf & Country Club in Placerville. To register visit marshallfound. org/golf-registration/?blm_ aid=30898.

Freelance Reporters Wanted

FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Like writing?

Have journalism experience?

Enjoy photography?

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

SAFE’s community grant program focuses on providing monetary support to nonprofit organizations in the greater Sacramento region that address the critical needs among those usually underserved in their communities, and to services that align with fulfilling the credit union’s purpose of helping people build financial freedom.

Stand Up

Continued from B1

Recent previous community grant recipients include Rebuilding Together Sacramento, Soil Born Farms, Foster Youth Education Fund, Junior Achievement of Sacramento and Volunteers of America.

meal by John Sanders of Old Town Grill, a raffle, a Lucky Liquor Game and a live auction. Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner served at 6:15 p.m. and showtime to follow. Advanced ticket purchase is required. Visitmorerehab.org or call (530) 6224848.

The evening will include a catered

Mentors Continued from B2 songwriter, keyboard artist and publisher playing one of the ‘hits’ on his first CD, ‘Chillak I,’” she said. “(We) will also have 50 copies of his CD for a $15 donation, signed by him, to the first 50 lucky audience members.”

for another youth once his current match concludes, further highlighting

remarkable commitment to mentoring. Last August, Flynn’s exceptional volunteer service was recognized by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors, making him the inaugural recipient of a prestigious honor.

Ready to help?

While BBBSNS loves sharing positive stories of champion defenders of potential, the work is never done. The agency’s waitlist continues to

grow with children who need more volunteers like Petro and Flynn. Currently, there are 64 kids waiting to be matched.

If you know of anyone who would be a good Big Brother or Big Sister, encourage them to check out the BBBSNS website or have them call the agency’s enrollment manager for more information (530) 626-1222. It takes only a few hours a week to change a child’s life for the better. BBBSNS has served the youth of El Dorado, Nevada and Placer Counties since 1977. For more information visit bbbsns.org.

The Gift of Kids, Inc.

Jennifer

Tommasini

5130 Golden Foothill Parkway

El Dorado Hills

916-521-1835

www.thegiftofkids.net

I would like to thank everyone for their vote for #1 Favorite Daycare and continuing to trust us with your precious children. I love being part of this community and helping children learn and grow. With 4 children of my own (now 25, 22, 13 and 12), my own journey began in the daycare preschool eld because I was unhappy with the care and education I was receiving.

I have been blessed to have a large facility in El Dorado Hills where I employ 30 loving teachers and care for 200 children. We offer education and care for babies, Preschoolers, Pre-K, and private Kindergarten. Don’t be fooled by our large size, our teachers make each classroom homey and warm. The kids have lots of outdoor space to play, we are on over an acre and have 4 large playgrounds, a soccer eld, and a an organic garden. The Gift of Kids outdoor area gives the kids space to explore, garden, and play on age appropriate playgrounds.

The teachers at The Gift of Kids Daycare and Preschool include talent that brings us music, yoga, and even Spanish on a daily basis. We have been working with soccer shots for over 8 years and have a very structured and advanced curriculum! Teachers here are all educated in child development, CPR and First Aid certi ed, and make it a priority to continue their education.

The Gift of Kids Inc. is celebrating 24 years in business, with 14 years in our same location, Business Park 1. We could not have done it without the many wonderful families here in the community that I have called home for 20 years! Again...Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me live out my dream in a business that I love and families that continue to bless us with their children. We have newly renovated the inside of our school, so come by to check it out and say hello anytime!

I“We are so grateful to our Big Brothers and Sisters who share their life experiences with the children in our community, the volunteers who offer their time and talents and, of course, the corporate sponsors, without whom we simply would not exist,” said BBBSNS Chief Executive Officer Brenda Frachiseur. “The appreciation dinner is our opportunity to thank those who give so generously throughout the year.”

Big Sis

Big Sister Michelle Petro of El Dorado Hills and Angel have been matched for the last eight years. They meet weekly or biweekly, and while they will occasionally go on grand adventures, most of the time, good company is enough.

When talking with Petro, it is evident how much support and love there is for Angel. She said she sees Angel for who she is wholeheartedly

and accepts her in a way that any person would be lucky to have. Petro has also grown close to her Little’s family over the years and is always available for Angel’s grandmother to lean on whenever she needs help — as she is doing her best to raise Angel and her sister.

Petro recounted how she had once received a call from Lisa in the middle of the night, asking her if she could help pick up Angel from sleep away camp. Petro didn’t bat an eyelash; she hopped out of bed, picked up Lisa and the two drove off into the night to go get their girl. Lisa knew she could count on Petro no matter what, and she was right. Petro volunteers for BBBSNS in a variety of different ways and is a constant reminder: “We make time for what is important.”

“We are so grateful to our Big Brothers and Sisters who share their life experiences with the children in our community ...”

— BBBSNS CEO Brenda Frachiseur

Upon asking Petro about her relationship with her Little, she related, “Angel and I were matched as she entered second grade eight years ago. Recently, she is now 15 and in her sophomore year of high school. I’ve had the pleasure of watching her blossom into a beautiful young lady. “I love that when she’s with me, she

has permission to be a kid; we still nurture the little girl in her that still has some growing to do. There’s no outside pressure to do, or be, anything in particular— just freedom to be who she is and explore her interests,” she continued. “I love exposing her to new things whether that be new adventures in dining (the little girl who only ate chicken nuggets now requests Tom kha gai soup at Thai restaurants!), roller skating, skiing, kayaking, hiking in nature, interacting with animals, artistic pursuits, anything musical (symphony, concerts, theater), and even flying in a heli-plane with Young Eagles.”

Big Bro

For the past nine years, Michael Flynn of Folsom has been a steadfast mentor and friend to his Little Brother, Joshua. His unwavering dedication and support have made a profound impact on Joshua’s life, embodying the very essence of what we value at BBBS. From the moment Flynn was matched with Joshua, then 8, he

committed himself to be a consistent presence in Joshua’s life, a guiding light through both joyous moments and challenging times, including a family tragedy. Flynn’s commitment to being there for Joshua, week in and week out, is a testament to his remarkable character.

While their meetings often involved activities like playing pool, Flynn’s mentoring extended far beyond mere pastimes. As Joshua transitioned into his teenage years, Flynn took on the role of a mentor, helping him plan for a successful future. He engaged Joshua in discussions about trades and post-high school life, providing invaluable guidance during this critical phase of his development.

One shining example of Flynn’s dedication is his instrumental role in helping Joshua obtain his driver’s license. Flynn oversaw Joshua’s driver’s education classes, coached him through the learner permit exam and celebrated with him when he passed his driving tests.

Even as Joshua approaches his 18th birthday, Flynn continues to meet with him regularly, demonstrating his intention to maintain their relationship well into the future. Furthermore, Flynn has expressed a desire to become a Big Brother

photos

Big Brother of the Year Michael Flynn, left photo, has been a steadfast mentor and friend to his Little Brother, Joshua, for the last nine years. At right, BBBSNS Chief Executive Officer Brenda Frachiseur, left, joins Big Sister of the Year Michelle Petro for a picture at the organization’s recognition event.

Students explore Red Hawk career options

Matt Meachen

Independence High School

Independence High School students and staff were hosted by the leadership at APEX Resort at Red Hawk Casino for an educational field trip to explore the many different job/career possibilities within the establishment and to experience these possibilities with a behind-the-scenes operations tour.

The group was greeted by CEO Bryan DeLugo and his senior staff upon arrival. After introductions, staff and students toured the operations of the hotel, including bell-hop, the front desk, a hotel suite and housekeeping and linens. The warehouse and receiving area were next on the tour followed by slot machine tech repairs. Students then got a firsthand look at the gaming school, carpentry and paint department and visited the three working kitchens of the main restaurants.

At each stop, staff excitedly shared their daily operations and highlighted

the benefits of working for the Red Hawk establishment. Students also learned about the education and age requirements, background checks and other details about working in the various departments. After much touring, the entire group was treated to a wonderful lunch at Koto Buffet in a private seating area.

After lunch students visited the APEX Family Fun Center, where more operation tours were offered and job possibilities shared. APEX treated staff and students to some fun on the virtual roller coaster and other activities. Upon departure, students were given generous goodie bags that included two coupons to come back and ride the go-karts.

Multiple students spoke with DeLugo about potential employment and career paths and, as a result of this incredible tour, Red Hawk/APEX HR staff are preparing to come to Independence High School to coach interested students in the process of gaining employment upon their 19th birthday.

To empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDS) to live their best lives. We do this by providing opportunities for growth in character, health, social connections, and independence.

Everyone who is in our program is in the Self Determination Program (SDP).

We also have an incredible theater program that rehearses every Tuesday evening from 5:30-7. This is not part of the SDP. This program is for ages 13 and up. For more information contact: Jonathan Reis, Founder, CEO/Executive Director, at 209-400-1334 or Racquel Hall, SDP Administrator, at 209-443-0316 Or you can email us at jonathanr@dreamcatchersedh.org or racquelh@dreamcatchersedh.org Dream Catchers EDH has a wonderful day program where our participants who have aged out of their programs or just want to come to us instead of their other program work on reallife skills both in the classroom and in public.

Red Hawk Resort & Casino CEO Bryan DeLugo, center poses with Independence High School students before taking them on a tour.

The Jupiter String Quartet to take stage at Sac State

concert by New Millennium Concert Series at California State University, Sacramento, on April 24.

Based in Urbana and giving concerts all over the country, the Jupiter String Quartet is a particularly intimate group, consisting of violinists Nelson Lee and Meg Freivogel, violist Liz Freivogel (Meg’s older sister) and cellist Daniel McDonough (Meg’s husband, Liz’s brotherin-law). Brought together by ties both familial and musical,

the Jupiter Quartet has been performing together for 23 years. Exuding an energy that is at once friendly, knowledgeable, and

adventurous, the quartet celebrates every opportunity to bring their close-knit and lively style to audiences. Their connections to

each other and the length of time they’ve shared the stage always shine through in their intuitive performances.

The Jupiter Quartet

brings its well-honed musical chemistry to three works that span more than 225 years, highlighting a range of musical

styles and unique personal experiences; each of which directly influenced how the composers approached their respective musical ideas. The program includes: W.A. Mozart’s String Quartet No. 21 in D Major, K. 575 (1789); Antonin Dvorák’s String Quartet No. 14 in A-flat Major, Op. 105 B. 193 (1895); and Su Lian Tan’s Life in Wayang (2002).

Mozart wrote several of his later string quartets for the King of Prussia, Frederick Wilhelm II, who was an accomplished cellist. This explains the particular prominence of the cello line and the elevation of all four voices to greater equality in general. The joyful interplay of the K. 575 quartet is a perfect example of this more democratic structure.

Next on the program will be Su Lian Tan’s vivid Life in Wayang, which evokes sounds

n See QUARTET, page B5

Todd Rosenberg Photography

The Jupiter String Quartet has played all over the world and earned numerous accolades. See the group Wedensday in Sacramento.

SAFE Credit to provide workforce development grant

FOLSOM — SAFE Credit Union will provide a $20,000 grant to a greater Sacramento region nonprofit with programs that support workforce development in underserved communities.

Nonprofits can apply for the community grant through Friday, May 10, and find the application form at safecu.org/community/

Quartet Continued from B4

of traditional South Asian shadow puppet theater. The music is filled with percussive effects that imitate the sounds of the traditional gamelan ensemble. Dvorák’s exuberant and expansive A-flat Major Quartet will finish the program, and its folksy style showcases his joy in returning, after a long visit to America, to his beloved homeland of Czechoslovakia.

The Jupiter Quartet says of bringing this musically diverse program to the community of California State University, Sacramento: “We are pleased to bring these vivid and engaging works to the audience in Sacramento, and happy that we will get to share both more familiar works and fresher ones. These three works showcase a great variety of sounds and timbres that the string quartet can create, from the refined, operatic beauty of Mozart to the bright, percussive brilliance of the gamelanlike sounds in Life in Wayang.”

This tight-knit ensemble is firmly established as an important voice in the world of chamber music. Artistsin-residence at the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana since 2012, the Jupiter Quartet maintain private studios and direct the university’s chamber music program.

The Jupiter Quartet has performed in some of the world’s finest halls,

Know Continued from B1

Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

The Sacramento Theatre Company presents Make Then Hear You: Uplifting Black Voices, April 26 through May 5 on the Cabaret Stage in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-6722 or visit sactheatre.org.

City Theatre at Sacramento City College presents “Emilia,” April 26 through May 11. For tickets and more information visit CityTheatre.net.

April 27

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts the ornamental plant sale 8 a.m. to noon at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive in Placerville. Find succulents, shrubs, trees, ornamental, native plants and more. Check the inventory preview at mgeldorado.ucanr. edu.

Join the Rise & Shine Community Day of Service, 8 a.m. to noon. Join other fun-loving volunteers as they clean up, fix up and spruce up parks and community spaces. Choose your work site and meet there at 8 am. we work in the sunshine for a few hours and then gather for a picnic at Lions Park. For more information visit placerville-riseandshine-2020. eventbrite.com.

An entire battalion of military headstones at Placerville Union Cemetery, many dating back to the Civil War, are lichenencrusted to the point of illegibility, leaning precariously, or both. Join the Headstone Party and learn how to clean

community-impact/funding/ community-sustainability-grantapplication-1.

“Having an educated and prepared workforce supports a strong regional economy, as well as helps ensure that families earn incomes that help them build financial freedom,” said SAFE Vice President Community Relations and Financial Education Rebecca Delmundo. “But not everyone has equitable access to higher education or work training programs that provide skills that match many businesses’ current needs. SAFE looks forward to supporting a nonprofit organization that provides programs and services that open pathways to well-compensated and meaningful careers.”

including New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, London’s Wigmore Hall, Boston’s Jordan Hall, Mexico City’s Palacio de Bellas Artes, Washington, D.C.’s Kennedy Center and Library of Congress, Austria’s Esterhazy Palace and Seoul’s Sejong Chamber Hall. Its major music festival appearances include the Aspen Music Festival and School, Bowdoin International Music Festival, Cape Cod Chamber Music Festival, Rockport Music Festival, Music at Menlo, the Seoul Spring Festival, and many others. Its chamber music honors and awards include the grand prizes in the Banff International String Quartet Competition and the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition; the Young Concert Artists International auditions in New York City; the Cleveland Quartet Award from Chamber Music America; an Avery Fisher Career Grant; and a grant from the Fromm Foundation. From 200710, the group was in residence at the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s Chamber Music Two.

The concert begins at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, April 24, at the CSUS Capistrano Hall, 6000 J St. in Sacramento. For tickets visit csus.edu/ college/arts-letters/music/spotlight/ new-millennium.html.

these historical headstones, 9 a.m. to noon. Sign up in advance by emailing info@ savethegraveseldorado.org.

El Dorado Hills Community Services District invites baseball and softball players of all skills and abilities to participate in the fourth annual Pitch, Hit, and Run competition at Promontory Park. The official skills competition of Major League Baseball will put young ball player’s fundamental skills to the test. This free event is open for anyone ages 7-14 to compete. For more information call (916) 933-6624 ext. 0.

Now

Marshall Hospital Auxiliary is looking for volunteers. Help people and make new friends. Interviews are held monthly. For more information call Norma at (530) 676-1844 or email

grizzyq98@gmail.com.

Registration is now open for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra Golf for Kids Sake tournament and fundraiser at the Serrano Country Club on May 20. To register call (530) 626-1222, ext. 104, or visit bbbsns.org/events/golf-event.

Registration is now open for the Bist Sandigo Golf Tournament at the Cameron Park Country Club June 10. For more information and to register call (916) 798-4746 or visit purelyhope.org.

Registration is now open for the 41st annual Bob West Drive for Marshall golf tournament scheduled for June 21 and hosted once again at Cold Springs Golf & Country Club in Placerville. To register visit marshallfound. org/golf-registration/?blm_ aid=30898.

Freelance Reporters Wanted

FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Like writing?

Have journalism experience?

Enjoy photography?

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

SAFE’s community grant program focuses on providing monetary support to nonprofit organizations in the greater Sacramento region that address the critical needs among those usually underserved in their communities, and to services that align with fulfilling the credit union’s purpose of helping people build financial freedom.

Stand Up

Continued from B1

songwriter, keyboard artist and publisher playing one of the ‘hits’ on his first CD, ‘Chillak I,’” she said. “(We) will also have 50 copies of his CD for a $15 donation, signed by him, to the first 50 lucky audience members.”

The evening will include a catered

Mentors Continued from B2

for another youth once his current match concludes, further

commitment to mentoring. Last August, Flynn’s exceptional volunteer service was recognized by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors, making him the inaugural recipient of a prestigious honor.

Ready to help?

While BBBSNS loves sharing positive stories of champion defenders of potential, the work is never done. The agency’s waitlist continues to

Recent previous community grant recipients include Rebuilding Together Sacramento, Soil Born Farms, Foster Youth Education Fund, Junior Achievement of Sacramento and Volunteers of America.

meal by John Sanders of Old Town Grill, a raffle, a Lucky Liquor Game and a live auction. Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner served at 6:15 p.m. and showtime to follow. Advanced ticket purchase is required. Visitmorerehab.org or call (530) 6224848.

grow with children who need more volunteers like Petro and Flynn. Currently, there are 64 kids waiting to be matched.

If you know of anyone who would be a good Big Brother or Big Sister, encourage them to check out the BBBSNS website or have them call the agency’s enrollment manager for more information (530) 626-1222. It takes only a few hours a week to change a child’s life for the better. BBBSNS has served the youth of El Dorado, Nevada and Placer Counties since 1977. For more information visit bbbsns.org.

The Gift of Kids, Inc.

Jennifer

Tommasini

5130 Golden Foothill Parkway

El Dorado Hills

916-521-1835

www.thegiftofkids.net

I would like to thank everyone for their vote for #1 Favorite Daycare and continuing to trust us with your precious children. I love being part of this community and helping children learn and grow. With 4 children of my own (now 25, 22, 13 and 12), my own journey began in the daycare preschool eld because I was unhappy with the care and education I was receiving.

I have been blessed to have a large facility in El Dorado Hills where I employ 30 loving teachers and care for 200 children. We offer education and care for babies, Preschoolers, Pre-K, and private Kindergarten. Don’t be fooled by our large size, our teachers make each classroom homey and warm. The kids have lots of outdoor space to play, we are on over an acre and have 4 large playgrounds, a soccer eld, and a an organic garden. The Gift of Kids outdoor area gives the kids space to explore, garden, and play on age appropriate playgrounds.

The teachers at The Gift of Kids Daycare and Preschool include talent that brings us music, yoga, and even Spanish on a daily basis. We have been working with soccer shots for over 8 years and have a very structured and advanced curriculum! Teachers here are all educated in child development, CPR and First Aid certi ed, and make it a priority to continue their education.

The Gift of Kids Inc. is celebrating 24 years in business, with 14 years in our same location, Business Park 1. We could not have done it without the many wonderful families here in the community that I have called home for 20 years! Again...Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me live out my dream in a business that I love and families that continue to bless us with their children. We have newly renovated the inside of our school, so come by to check it out and say hello anytime!