Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Dogfighting ringleader gets 15 months in prison

Isaac Streeter

Staff writer

El Dorado County resident

Carlos Villasenor was sentenced to 15 months in prison and ordered to pay $8,200 in fines Monday for operating a dog breeding and fighting ring at his Placerville home, according to a news release from the Department of Justice, Eastern District of

California.

Chief of El Dorado County Animal Services Henry Brzezinski provided a statement following the sentencing Monday.

“It was a sad day when El Dorado County Animal Services assisted the USDA agents in the search of Villasenor’s property in our county. The conditions these fighting dogs were kept in

Divide woman found dead

were deplorable,” recalls Brzezinski. “I can’t begin to imagine how many dogs endured torture and pain, suffered and died at the hands of Villasenor in the fighting pit. He conducted this ‘underground business’ breeding and selling dogs for profit for many years.

“I was in the courtroom today and I appreciate that the U.S. Attorney’s office

and the judge took this matter seriously and that Villasenor will serve time based on the sentencing guidelines,” Brzezinski continues. “One concerning note was that Villasenor did not own up to the monies made in this illegal animal fighting venture, which was prosecuted under the Federal Animal Welfare Act, nor did I feel like he was truly

remorseful for this abhorrent behavior.”

Court documents show Villasenor first came under investigation in 2020 when the sound of dogs fighting with spectators cheering was heard from his property and was subsequently reported to authorities.

Villasenor’s home was

n See Villasenor page A3

n See liddicoat, page A7

Fire Station 88 gets a reprieve

Noel Stack Managing editor Cameron Park will keep both its fire stations open.

After several public

PLACE ADDRESS LABEL HERE

meetings and months of negotiations, the Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors unanimously approved a two-year fire service agreement with Cal Fire that will keep Stations 88 and 89 fully staffed at an amount not to exceed $10,601,450. The agreement includes adding an additional firefighter position in 2023-34 followed by another in 2024-25. To offset some of that cost, a battalion chief position will be eliminated in 2024-25. CPCSD acting General Manager Jill Ritzman noted the contract comes with a termination/amendment

n See station 88, page A7

Van Streefkerk pleads not guilty in baby death case

Odin Rasco Staff writer

A Cameron Park man accused of physical abuse that resulted in the death of an infant pleaded not guilty to all charges in El Dorado County Superior Court Department 2 Friday.

Kevin Van Streefkerk, 37, was arrested June 20 by El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office deputies

following a report of child abuse made by an unidentified employee at a local hospital. The report was made June 17; the infant was admitted into the hospital with numerous injuries and ultimately died, according to EDSO Sgt. Alexander Sorey.

Van Streefkerk was booked into the Placerville

n See BaBy death page A2

Pickleball coming to Placerville

Odin Rasco Staff writer

Lions Park in Placerville will soon be the home of four brandnew pickleball courts following a decision by the Placerville City Council June 13.

The council approved a plan to negotiate and execute an agreement with AllSport America for design and construction of four pickleball courts, as well as resurfacing of the two tennis courts already present at Lions Park.

n See

, page A3

Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco

Kevin Van Streefkerk, second from right, is pictured in El Dorado County Superior Court with his attorney Dain Weiner Friday.

Sarah LiDDiCoaT

Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco

in addition to four new concrete pickleball courts, the project approved by Placerville City Council will see Lions Park tennis courts resurfaced.

pickleBall

Thomas David Sloan

Sept. 1, 1948 - May 1, 2023

Thomas David Sloan was born in Sacramento on September 1, 1948, and passed away on May 1, 2023. He is preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Virginia Larue Sloan, Aunt Virginia Mae (Vicki) Sloan, and brother Gary Sloan. Tom is survived by his wife Valerie Buell, daughters Lisa Sloan Brownell and Kimberly Sloan, grandchildren Quintten and Clarity Brownell, siblings Bradley Sloan and Theresa Sloan Kersey, and Cousin Robert John (Bobby) Sloan.

Tom was hardworking, determined, and multitalented. He loved sports, the outdoors, and his childhood spent on the family pear ranch in Camino, California. At thirteen his family moved to Carmichael. Tom graduated from CSU, Sacramento with a degree in Business Administration. He earned a master’s degree in IT Engineering. He served 22 proud years in the Coast Guard retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Commander, was CEO of the Yolo County YMCA, and for 29 years worked for the State of California.

In retirement, Tom became a USDA-CCOF organic farmer on his 4th generation family ranch—Sloan Winters Mountain Orchard and Garden. He was an active member of the Apple Hill Growers Association. He was known for leading educational farm tours—describing the challenges and science of farming, his love for the area, its history, and culinary tips using locally grown food.

Tom renovated his childhood home built by his great-grandfather (John Winters) in the early 1900s. In 2017, he shared the Apple Hill and Camino experience with visitors by becoming a Superhost of the Airbnb farm home. Also, Tom bought and flipped a home in Pollock Pines. Traveling near and far was another passion. Especially meaningful to Tom were mission trips with Fair Oaks Church.

Tom’s family and friends miss him. To celebrate Tom’s tenacity, you can donate in Tom’s name to the Sierra Harm Reduction Coalition or the Food Bank of El Dorado County.

Jessie Roberta Abbott

June 18, 1932 – May 4, 2023

Jessie Roberta Abbott passed away May 4, 2023, at the age of 90. She was born and raised in Woodland until moving to Placerville, California in 2011 where she resided until her death. Jessie was one of six children.

Mrs. Abbott was preceded in death by four siblings, her second husband Robert Abbott and her first husband George Dinsdale, whom she had four children with. She is survived by her children, Dawn Abbott, Cheryl Hollingsworth, George Dinsdale Jr., his wife Pam Wallace Dinsdale, Julie Dinsdale, six grandchildren, seven greatgrandchildren, brother Robert Paulson, and many nieces and nephews.

Growing up in Yolo County and attending Yolo Elementary School she was involved in many Ag programs and became the Yolo County Fair Sugar Queen in 1949. In 1950 she graduated from Woodland High School, eventually attending classes at Yuba College. She was employed by Woodland Joint Unified School District where she worked until her retirement. Jessie collected antique furniture, enjoyed sewing, quilting and was an avid gardener and cook. Her gardens were extensive, and she participated in the Davis and Woodland Farmers Markets. She was loved by many and always a gracious host for parties, holiday feasts and family reunions. Along with her husband Bob, they raised exotic birds and were involved in the Capital City Bird Society in Sacramento. She was a member of the Widowed Persons Association in Placerville for many years. Jessie held her family together with her strong character and true devotion. She was known for her grace, kindness and adoring laugh. She lived life with a positive attitude, never-ending love for family and a deep connection with nature. Her ashes will be placed alongside her husband Bob’s grave at Monument Hill Memorial Park in Woodland, California, where her parents Clarence and Pauline Paulson are also buried. The family is planning a private Celebration of Life in her memory. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to one of her favorite charities including SPCA, Sierra Club or The Nature Conservancy.

Dee Miller

April 29, 1958 - May 11, 2023

Dee peacefully passed away at her home in Prescott Valley, AZ with her husband by her side on the early morning of May 11, 2023, after battling an illness for less than a year. She was born Dee Ann Encinas in 1958, of Oxnard, CA, the youngest of two brothers and one sister. The family moved to Sonoma County shortly afterwards, where they settled down in Sebastopol. Dee loved to ride her horse Queenie, on the back country roads with her dog Jeremy at her side. She was a high school graduate of El Molina High School in 1976 and the family relocated to Santa Rosa.

Dee went to work at Sonoma State Hospital after graduation where she worked as a hospital worker and a school bus driver. It is here that she met and started dating her future husband Terry. In 1987 Terry and Dee relocated to Garden Valley in the foothills of El Dorado County where they bought their first home. On a cold Saturday morning in January of 1989, they were joined together in marriage at the tiny St. John’s Church in the Marshall Gold Discovery Park in Coloma.

Dee enjoyed working with her husband on enlarging their home and was not afraid to climb a ladder and paint a ceiling or split and stack a cord of wood. She loved being outdoors working in her garden and her flower beds or putting around on her riding mower. During the winter months she would bake cinnamon rolls, make a quiche from scratch or spend time in her sewing room mending clothes or creating a new holiday decoration. Dee successfully home schooled their two children Jessica and David and at some point, decided to take on a part time job for the Kmart in Placerville, where she worked as a department manager in the children’s department. After leaving Kmart, she decided to take up horse back riding again and could be seen riding the trails of Pilot Hill or the back roads in Garden Valley, with her daughter or husband tagging along.

Dee and Terry sold their home at the end of 2020 and moved to Prescott Valley, AZ where they spent time traveling and making plans to live out their retirement years but tragically her life was cut short.

Dee is survived by her husband Terry Miller of Prescott Valley, Arizona; daughter Jessica WallerMiller of El Dorado; son David and his family also of El Dorado; her brother James and his family of Ogden, Utah; her brother Michael and his family of Abilene, Texas; her two grandchildren Hollie and Jameson Miller of El Dorado; her niece Rachael Thomas and family of Boise, Idaho; her nephew Jim and niece Andrea of Ogden, Utah and several relations in the Oxnard and surrounding areas of southern California. Dee was preceded in death by her sister Donna Beckman of Nampa, Idaho. There are no plans for a memorial service at this time. Anyone who wishes to make a donation in her name, may do so to either The Arizona Oncology and Hematology Associates or the Arizona Kidney Disease, LLC both of Prescott Valley, AZ 86314.

Garrett Lee Marier

August 1988 – May 28, 2023

Garrett Lee Marier was born in August of 1988. Sadly he passed away on May 27, 2023. Garrett loved all things outdoors. He was known as one that would give you the shirt o his back, his last dollar, or lend a hand to help someone in need.

Garrett Lee Marier is survived by; his parents (Susan Kupihea & Rick Marier),his siblings(Kaiwa Kupihea & Lahela Kupihea) & his twin brother (Adam Marier), his family, friends and his faithful dog “Butters”.

Garrett is so loved and will be missed dearly.

Mountain Democrat

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

June 12

7:01 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 32-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia and felony parole violations on Ice House Road in Pollock Pines. He was listed in custody.

8:14 a.m. Burglary was reported at a business on Post Street in El Dorado Hills.

8:16 a.m. Battery was reported on Stagecoach Road in Placerville.

12:59 p.m. Deputies made an arrest after responding to a suspicious subject report at a business on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

7:18 p.m. Battery was reported on Bronzewing Place in El Dorado Hills.

7:29 p.m. Illegal entry was reported on Wagon Master Road in Placerville.

8:41 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Diamond Meadows Way in Diamond Springs.

11:54 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of being a felon in possession of a firearm, carrying concealed weapon possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia and several Vehicle Code violations on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $107,500 bail.

June 13

1:23 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville.

2:05 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a restaurant on Pleasant Valley Road in El Dorado.

2:09 p.m. Deputies made an

arrest after responding to a suspicious subject report at a store on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

2:09 p.m. Battery was reported on Ice House Road in Pollock Pines.

3:28 p.m. Battery was reported at a church on Cambridge Road in Cameron Park.

3:34 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a store on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

4:41 p.m. Battery was reported at an apartment complex on Country Club Drive in Cameron Park.

5:01 p.m. Illegal entry was reported on Starkes Grade Road in Pollock Pines.

June 14

8:38 a.m. Burglary was reported at the post office on Northside Drive in Cool. 10 a.m. A possible prowler was reported on Granada Court in Cameron Park.

12:52 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Glory Hole Drive in Camino.

1:45 p.m. Burglary was reported at a storage facility on Green Valley Road in El Dorado Hills.

3:06 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville.

3:07 p.m. A vehicle burglary was reported on Lindberg Avenue in Placerville.

3:21 p.m. Vandalism was repotted on Carson Road in Camino.

3:25 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a store on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

3:27 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Business Drive in Shingle Springs.

3:28 p.m. Vandalism was reported at Brush Creek Dam on Forebay Road in Camino.

Baby death Continued from A1

jail where inmate records list charges of heinous and intentional murder in the first degree and assault of a child younger than 8 years old resulting in death.

The El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce has not yet decided whether to pursue the death penalty in the case.

Due to the nature of the charges against him, Van Streefkerk was determined to be ineligible for bail and will be held in El Dorado County Jail.

Judge Mark A. Ralphs approved a search warrant in relation to the case, as well as a criminal protective order for the mother of the infant. Van Streefkerk’s next court appearance has been scheduled for July 14 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 2.

Broken line makes muddy mess in EDH

Noel Stack

Managing editor

A water main failure turned El Dorado Hills into a muddy, watery mess Sunday, prompting swift action from the El Dorado Irrigation District.

“We experienced an unexpected event on Sunday along El Dorado Hills Boulevard when a 60-year-old water main failed, turning a scheduled leak repair into an emergency fix. This

is the second such incident in the last four years,” EID o cials posted in a Facebook message.

“Our sta responded swiftly, re-routing water distribution to minimize disruption. Thanks to their dedication the impact was reduced from potentially a ecting over a hundred services to just 10, including the El Dorado Hills Community Services District,” the post continues.

“We collaborated closely with the CSD

and performed repairs on Sunday that allowed us to minimize disruption, manage tra c impacts and ensure repair work could be completed safely.”

EID is responsible for more than 1,122 miles of pipeline, 27 miles of canals and ditches, 36 storage reservoirs, 38 pumping stations and five water treatment facilities, according to its website.

To maintain and improve the

water conveyance system the EID Board of Directors adopts a capital improvement plan annually and projects are prioritized according to safety and need. Funding for the CIP comes from many sources, including grants, loans and rates. Rates are necessary to provide su cient revenue to fund capital projects, operations and maintenance costs. Earlier this year the district initiated a cost of service study to evaluate its rates.

Court upholds South Lake Tahoe VHR restrictions

Tahoe Daily Tribune

The Court of Appeal on Tuesday issued an opinion that substantially upholds Measure T, a vacation home rental restricting measure that was narrowly passed by South Lake Tahoe voters in 2018.

Following passage of the measure that prohibits vacation home rentals in residential areas outside of the designated tourist core, the South Lake Tahoe Property Owners Group filed a lawsuit challenging the measure.

“Today, the Court of Appeal issued an opinion that substantially upholds Measure T. Most

Pickleball Continued from A1

The tennis courts have fallen into disrepair in recent years, with sizable cracks in the ground. The location of the new courts is planned to be next to the tennis courts near the center of the park.

The resurfacing and concrete court construction — which will include fences, nets and directional LED lighting to allow for evening play — is estimated to cost $318,720. To allow for interruptions or unforeseen expense, the budget approved is nearly $339,000. Funding for the project comes from three sources, according to Terry Zeller, director of Community Services for Placerville: $177,952 will come from the percapita grant Assembly Bill 68, $120,000 will come from the park development fund and the remaining $41,768 will be drawn from the General Fund’s unassigned balance.

Local residents and councilmembers were pleased at the prospect of bringing pickleball amenities to Placerville,

with public comment serving as a chorus of positive feedback. The sport has been rapidly growing in appeal in recent years, with a 2022 Sports and Fitness Industry Association report showing it had seen a 40% growth in players between 2019 and 2021. According to a 2022 New York Times article, the growth rate of pickleball places it as the fastest growing sport in the country.

“The county is going to need to build some more courts,” Councilmember Jackie Neau said. “Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and four courts is not going to be enough for all of El Dorado County. The lights will allow the working people to play, otherwise it would remain a retired sport in Placerville if you can’t play after five.”

Other pickleball courts on the West Slope are at Cameron Park Lake in Cameron Park and Heritage Park in El Dorado Hills.

Since the courts were put in at Cameron Park Lake in 2017

Villasenor Continued from A1

raided in June 2021 and he was arrested. At the time of his arrest he was in possession of 27 pitbulltype dogs of which approximately half were held by heavy chains that allowed them to see but not reach each other, fostering aggression between them. A Chihuahua mix “bait dog” was also found and seized by authorities.

Dogfighting implements such as a breeding stand and treadmills along with veterinary supplies were located on Villasenor’s property as well.

Villasenor pleaded guilty to the charges in December 2022 and as a part of his plea surrendered the animals and property seized by authorities, according to the DOJ. After Villasenor serves the 15 months he is expected to be on supervised release 24 months.

Evidence from the case, according to the U.S.

importantly, the ban on VHRs in residential neighborhoods has been upheld,” states a press release from the city of South Lake Tahoe.

The court sent one issue back to the trial court regarding qualified VHRs, which allows residents of South Lake Tahoe to get a permit to rent their homes for up to 30 days per year even if they are outside of the tourist core. The court remanded this issue to determine whether this provision unlawfully discriminates against non-residents.

The South Lake Tahoe Property Owners Group claimed that part of the measure violated the Dormant Commerce Clause, which prohibits entities from making laws that disturb interstate

the Cameron Park Community Services District has been hearing complaints about the noise created by pickleball play from residents adjacent to the park. The CSD’s directors considered limiting court hours and days or relocating the courts.

Pickleball noise concerns were also brought up in El Dorado County Board of Supervisors’ discussions regarding two parks in planning stages — Forebay Park in Pollock Pines and the 40-acre park proposed for Diamond Springs.

The subject of noise was touched upon during the council’s discussion, but councilmembers determined the planned location of the courts is su ciently far away from residences near the park to avoid becoming a noise nuisance.

Councilmember John Clerici added that the noise from the park, which he lives near, will not be any louder than softball games on the fields.

AllSport was selected

as the contractor for the Lions Park project as it is pre-approved by Sourcewell, a company that provides governments with a list of contractors with set prices for work.

The city plans to target July as the start time for the project and anticipates completion in late fall, according to Zeller.

Attorney’s O ce, included Villasenor’s phone records, which have shown his activity breeding, selling and fighting dogs dating back to 2009.

Villasenor built a clientele outside the West Coast and made numerous trips to Mexico to further his dogfighting activities.

Federal agents took custody of the dogs upon execution of the warrant to search the Villasenor property. El Dorado County Animal Services sta cared for one of the pit bulls and a Chihuahua at their Placerville facility and both have since been placed in “great homes,” Brzezinski told the Mountain Democrat.

The investigation was carried out by the U.S. Department of Agriculture with support from El Dorado County Animal Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Audrey Hemesath served as the prosecutor.

commerce.

“We agree that the complaint did not expressly inform the city that the Dormant Commerce Clause was a source of plainti ’s claims for declaratory and injunctive relief. But the complaint’s allegation that Measure T unconstitutionally discriminated against outof-state interests in favor of permanent city residents alleges a classic violation of the Dormant Commerce Clause,” the opinion states.

City o cials said they are reviewing the opinion and potential next steps. A link to the full opinion can be viewed at courts.ca.gov/opinions/ documents/C093603.PDF.

Dr. Little’s Dental News

Presented by Jeffery Little, D.D.S.

IS SINUSITIS RELATED TO DENTAL HEALTH?

If you’ve ever had a sinus infection, you may have experienced a toothache or pain in you upper teeth that disappeared when the infection cleared up. When a person has sinusitis, the tissue inside the sinuses becomes inflamed. The largest sinuses are located above the back teeth of the upper jaw, and the roots of the upper teeth can extend into the sinuses, so tooth pain with a sinus infection is common. Likewise, damage, decay, or infection in a tooth can cause chronic sinusitis because the infection in the tooth can spread to the sinuses. Consult with both your doctor and dentist if you are experiencing chronic sinus infections to learn if the cause is dental or otherwise.

Because we are part of your healthcare team, we are concerned about all aspects of your health, especially as it relates to dental issues and tooth pain. If a 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 wish us to. 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. A dentist can see sinuses in a dental X-ray and may be able to diagnose a sinus infection as well as locate the cause.

An excavator was brought in to help workers unearth a problem pipe, left photo. Water gushes out a broken water main on El Dorado Hills

Crews were able to make an emergency repair.

Chamber Champions:

“Providing fast, convenient and affordable tness solutions to a diverse group of members. In addition, we are constantly improving our club programming and tness options to create a clean, safe and friendly wellness environment! Our clubs are staffed by tness professionals who are dedicated to their craft and are always looking for ways to better serve our community.”

1248 Broadway, Placerville. (530) 621-2777

www.snap tness.com/us/gyms/placerville-ca

Now Accepting Applications

all had an impact on Placerville and El Dorado County during the Gold Rush period. Each miner has a QR code on the medallion that will take you to a webpage about the miners when scanned with your phone camera. So grab your phone and begin your hunt. visit-eldorado.com/miners-on-main/

Live Music, Arts, & Quality Entertainment at The Green Room Social Club GRSC promotes monthly art shows with artist receptions, live painting experiences, weekly karaoke, open mic, and trivia nights! Watch the big game on the big screen or bring the family to the Foothills all ages venue. https://clubgreenroom.com/

Friday Nights in the Vineyards Everhart Cellars/Hart 2 Hart Vineyards. Food, wines by the bottle, hard cider and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. No outside food or alcohol please. Fun for all ages. 6- 10 p.m. https://www.everhartcellars.com/

Jul 1 Cantina for the Con

This is an annual Fundraiser for the 501(c)3 Non-Pro t Mission:

To Enhance the Future Health and Use of the Rubicon Trail while Ensuring Responsible Motorized Year-round Trail Access. We advocate for your Continued Motorized Access to the Trail and Surrounding Public lands. Robbs Resort, 14216 Ice House Rd, Pollock Pines. www.rubicontrailfoundation.org/portfolio/cantinafor-the-con/

Jul 1 Sierra Vista Food, Wine & Live Music Music by Ain’t Got No Time. Noon to 8 p.m. info@sierravistawinery.com , 530-622-7221 www.sierravistawinery.com/event/4thof-july/

Jul 2 Tiger Lily Food & Wine Pairing

Noon to 3 p.m. Come taste some of our delectable, reserve Tiger Lily Wines with some delicious food pairings from Sweet Pairings! $30 club, $40 General Public. 530-622-7221 , www. sierravistawinery.com/event/tiger-lily/

Jul 4 Family Blast at the County Fairgrounds

Gates Open at 4 pm | FIREWORKS once dark. Bring your propane BBQs, footballs, other games, coolers (no outside alcohol, please) and your dancing shoes, but leave your pets, charcoal BBQs and glass containers at home. Kid's Activities: Hay Mazes plus Free Kids' Contests and Games Live Music from 6-10 pm. Food and Beverage available for purchase. http://eldoradocountyfair.org/ blast.html

Jul 12 Star eld Vineyards – Wednesday Night

Wine and Dine

5:15 p.m. – 10 p.m. Sipping on your favorite Star eld wine, eating some delicious food, listening to relaxing live music, and watching the sunset is a phenomenal mid-week break! 530-7483085 ext. 2. www.star eldvineyards.com/Events/WednesdayNight-Wine--Dine

Jul 7 Festival of Music

A concert featuring local musicians. Performers include concert pianist Kiko Torres-Velasco, soloist, Rebecca Monroe, Goldrush Barbershop Chorus, guitarist Phil Reddin, and others. Donations welcomed - all for the musicians. 7 – 9 pm. Placerville Shakespeare Club 2940 Bedford Ave., 530-622-3290

Jul 8 Sierra Vista Art Show

Join us for our rst annual Art Show. Come and enjoy some wine and support your local artists. We will have food available for purchase & Glass of Wine Specials ALL DAY!! $5 club, $7 general. No Tickets needed. 530-622-7221 www.sierravistawinery. com/event/art-event-2/

Jul 8 L.A.Vation Tribite to U2 at Saureel

Summer Nights

Imagine a Rock and Roll Tribute show, so realistic, it will overwhelm your senses of sight and sound. L.A.vation is that band, and U2 its inspiration! 5 - 9:30 p.m. www.saureelvineyards.com/ special-events

Jul 8 Concerts for a Cause

Join ARC and Marco’s Café at Wakamatsu Farm this summer for a new concert series that supports ARC’s Resilience Reserve. Enjoy live music, tasty food, and beverages al fresco at the his-

toric Wakamatsu Farm. The Resilience Reserve was established in 2023 to help ARC manage and restore wildlife habitat and repair recent damage to recreational infrastructure. Ticket price varies $10-$15 per person. Food and beverages not included in ticket price. Check out our website to view concert lineups, times, and to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. https:// app.donorview.com/xX7y0

Jul 22 EDC Sheriff’s Posse BBQ Fundraiser 5601 Gold Hill, Placerville. 4 – 10 p.m. www.eventbrite.com/e/ el-dorado-county-sheriffs-bbq-tickets-646772894137

Jul 22 Sierra Vista Food, Wine and Live Music

Music by Darth Mozart 5 – 8 p.m. info@sierravistawinery.com , 530-622-7221

Jul 22 Kings of Queen at Saureel Summer Nights

The Nation's Top Queen Tribute. 5 – 10 p.m. www.saureelvineyards.com/special-eventsFor more information on these and other events, visit www.visiteldorado.com

Jul 28 Everhart Cellars/Hart2Hart Vineyards

Family Wine Down

Last Fridays of the month. DJ Grant & Food Trucks. 6 – 10 p.m. 530-885-WINE. www.everhartcellars.com

Jul 29 Divining Experience at Element 79 Vineyards

Last Saturdays of the month. Chef Brian will be joined by a member of Element 79's winemaking team as your hosts to provide you with insights providing you with a fun, engaging and interactive food and wine experience. $65 per person includes tip. 530497-0750, www.element79vineyards.com

Jul 29 Food, Wine & Live Music at Sierra Vista

Music by the Fabulous Liars. 5 – 8 p.m. Early Bird Reservations until Wed. 26th. Club $5, Gen Public $10. Tickets after Wed. 26th & at the Door Club $10, Gen Public $15. RSVP 530-6227221 or www.sierravistawinery.com/event/fabulous-liars/

Event date, time, cost or locations are subject to change. Prior to attending an event please con rm the information.

Joseph Mackay, National Operations Director, cuts the ribbon to celebrate Snap Fitness’ joining the Chamber Family.

Decision 2024: Don’t vote for a number

Are President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump too old to be president of the United States?

The answer to this question varies and depends on your perspective.

This perspective

hinges on your expectations of America’s president. Should he or she be able to run up steps? What about walking down the steps from Air Force One without looking down? This is a good trick.

We have to be careful about hanging a number on the maximum age to serve as president.

Eighty may be too old, but maybe it’s not. I heard Billy Graham preach when he was 80 and he came on the stage talking and preaching like a dynamo. There was nothing inarticulate or incoherent about him. There are millions of 80-year-plus people in this nation who live very active lives and have a lot to contribute to our country.

However, we have to be realistic there are millions of 80-yearold Americans who are barely alive; their health is terrible.

Many cannot care for themselves let alone care for a nation.

Furthermore, there are also millions of Americans between 36 and 70 who are not mentally or physically healthy enough to hold down the world’s No. 1 job.

Each individual must be evaluated by each American. We have to look at all the candidates circumspectly. Do they have the experience? Do they have the knowledge and skills. Are they articulate. Does the candidate demonstrate leadership skills that we need to lead this country forward to better times? Will the candidate be a strong presence on the world stage and be a peace maker and leader?

Seventy million Americans do not want a

The Rural Life

Letters to the Editor

Perspective

EDITOR:

War in Europe and another starting in Asia, inflation, recession, presidential indictments, national debt, budget deficits — all are only a fragment a of list of things that a ect the quality of my life that over which I have no control.

A Cameron Park Community Services District manager quitting and speeding on Cambridge Road are a couple of issues that I might make some sort of positive input with, if I wanted to, if I had the time.

But growing older with my life partner, giving support and advice to my children when asked, being a rock star to my grandchildren and a friend to my dad are things I have to do to maintain a good quality of life for people who I love.

The older I get the more I understand that life is chaos, there are only so many hours in the day and, in my opinion, to worry about things I can’t control — like global warming, an earthquake or a hurricane — is a big waste of time, taken away from the important things I can do to make my loved ones’ lives a little easier. Which, from my perspective, is what is truly important to me.

KEN STEERS Cameron Park

Leftist hypocrisy

EDITOR:

Mr. Garon is good at rambling while making very few specific points. But he did give us a couple to chew on. He

laments our for-profit healthcare system while overlooking the fact that the government system in Canada is so bad people die on waiting lists for care. That’s why so many come here for care on their own dime.

Then he talks of Medicare and Social Security. These are important programs that are going bankrupt. But if a Republican mentions this they’re for throwing grandmother in the street, so nothing gets done. This is a great argument for lefties like Mr. Garon because they know they’ll be gone when those programs collapse, so no problem for them. The cynical position of those people is that they would rather use these programs as political weapons than fix them since they won’t be here when they crash anyway.

He ends his letter trying to make political use of God. Here’s where you really have to love the left. On one hand they basically condemn believers as neanderthals “clinging to God and guns,” while on the other hand you have people like Garon trying to use religion politically by asking what would Jesus think. Now, Mr. Garon, if there was an Academy Award for hypocrisy, I’d start working on my acceptance speech if I were you.

GEORGE ALGER Placerville

A ‘marriage’ in the heavens and we’re invited. Sort of

“Look, Jenny.”

That was my father, years ago, showing me how to view the Milky Way. I looked up, but all I saw were stars in general, not anything specifi c. Then he swung his arm in a huge arc, drawing my attention to a faint — and, yes, milky — band of light across the clear night sky.

“That’s it,” he said. And so it was. He explained how we could view our home galaxy only from within it, given the location of our solar system on one of the Milky Way’s outer spiral arms. That means we see the enormous, spinning galactic disk edge-on, as a band that arches across our entire sky.

Since then I’ve learned so much more about our Milky Way, as astronomers use ever-bigger telescopes to explore it and other features of our literally incredible universe.

NASA tells us a galaxy is simply a large group of stars, gas and dust bound together by gravity. Our sun is one of at least 100 billion stars that make up the Milky Way, which itself is about 100,000 light-years across in size. (You’ll recall that a light-year is the distance light travels — at the speed of light, mind you — in the course of a year.)

Our Milky Way is no youngster. Scientists fi gure it’s about 13.6 billion years old — almost as old as the universe itself, which was born about 13.8 billion years ago.

If you’ve never seen the Milky Way, many areas of El Dorado County are dark enough to enable a good look in the summertime. Find a rural spot free of light pollution from a town or city. Pick a clear night, then look up and search for that wide, milky band fl owing all across the sky.

To see photos of our galaxy, simply search online for “milky way photos” — there are scads. If you see any images depicting a full spiral galaxy, those are not the Milky Way. (We can’t — yet — get far enough out in space to see or photograph it in its entirety.) Those images are probably photos of a similar “nearby” galaxy, Andromeda — more about that star system in a moment.

When I’m feeling stressed, thinking about the lovely Milky Way and our position in it always calms me. Actually, “calms” isn’t the right word. Exhilarates is more like it. My attention shifts from whatever’s bothering me to the incredible fact that I and everyone I love actually exist (against the huge odds of nonexistence) and are whizzing

along through the universe in the arms of this gorgeous galaxy.

To me, this is the sublimest of thoughts.

Now, about Andromeda. It’s the nearest spiral galaxy to our own, being “only” about 2.5 million lightyears away. It’s much bigger than us, too, with about a trillion stars and a diameter roughly twice that of the Milky Way.

On a dark, moonless night, if you know where to look, you can actually see Andromeda with your naked eye. It appears as a faint smudge of distant light about the size of a highin-the-sky full moon.

Because Andromeda resembles our own galaxy, I keep a photo of it on my computer desktop. I look at it to be reminded of both galaxies whenever I need to put the trials and frustrations of life into perspective.

And here’s the coolest thing. Scientists tell us Andromeda is at this very moment hurtling toward the Milky Way at a speed of about 70 miles per second. That means in about 5 billion years from now, the two galaxies will merge, “marrying” in a dramatic sequence that forms not a larger spiral galaxy, but an elliptical or football-shaped one.

Even more mind-boggling is what we now know: Because galaxies’

faint, gas-fi lled halos extend far beyond the visible boundaries of the galaxies themselves, astronomers say the halos of Andromeda and the Milky Way are probably already touching .

The wedding, as it were, has begun.

Will humankind be around to witness the full coming-together?

Not from Earth. In about 4 billion years, the increasing brightness of our Sun will have scorched any life o our planet.

“But by that time,” reports the wonderful earthsky.org, “maybe some earthly inhabitants will have become space-faring. Perhaps we’ll have left Earth, and even our solar system. We may still get the view of Andromeda merging with the Milky Way, just from a slightly di erent perspective.”

A di erent perspective. Exactly.

As ever, pondering the universe we live in is exhilarating in a way nothing else is. I only wish my dad were still here to share the growing wonder of it all with me.

Jennifer Forsberg Meyer is a columnist with the Mountain Democrat and the author of “Friends With Four Legs.” Leave a comment for her online, or for a reply, reach her at jfmfeedback@gmail.com.

When I’m feeling stressed, thinking about the lovely Milky Way and our position in it always calms me. Actually, “calms” isn’t the right word. Exhilarates is more like it.

We have to look at all the candidates circumspectly. Do they have the experience? Do they have the knowledge and skills. Are they articulate.

GLENN MOLLETTE

clause “if our financial hardships continue or worsen,” which could result in the eventual closure of Station 88.

Preliminary budget figures estimate the district will have to use fund balance to cover an expected revenue shortfall of more than $860,000 in its 2023-24 budget, which all directors agreed is not sustainable. “We have to protect that account,” Director Monique Scobey said, stressing it is critical now to get the community involved in developing solutions that will keep the district in good financial standing over the long term.

Among the ideas staff and directors are exploring are a property tax assessment to help fund fire service, annexation/consolidation with another fire district and issuing a request for proposals for fire service. The CSD’s main source of revenue is property taxes, which directors noted are not growing at the same rate as neighboring communities like El Dorado Hills. Staff is expected to come back to the board at its July meeting with budget cutting options to make that shortfall “a lot more manageable,” Ritzman said. She and staff will also have more information about steps the board must take to pursue the options listed above.

Director Eric Aiston said the district has grant applications pending, which could relieve some of the immediate budget pressure if awarded. He also pointed out that in the last few years the CPCSD has generously supported the community, both with its fire service through the West Slope mutual aid agreement and by opening the Cameron Park Community Center during major wildfires, for which,

he said, the district was only partially reimbursed. He encouraged staff to meet with El Dorado County leaders to see if they could allocate funds. “We need some help,” Aiston said.

Fire Chief Dusty Martin said the CSD will see some savings this coming fiscal year as Cal Fire has open positions within the Cameron Park Fire Department and it’s likely they won’t be filled for several months. He also stressed that whatever happens with regards to the CSD’s budget, “We’re not going to walk out and leave the community without fire service.”

Members of the public encouraged the board to support the contract while acknowledging the district’s tough financial position.

Cameron Park resident Barbara Rodgers said once again directors are kicking the can down the road rather than making necessary budget cuts. She encouraged directors to look at the “other side” of the CSD budget (recreation).

“If you do the right thing you’re going to shine in the eyes of the citizens,” Rogers said. “But you’re not.”

Former El Dorado Hills fire chief Larry Fry doesn’t live within CSD boundaries but said Station 88 is the closest station to his home and has responded to family emergencies. He told the board keeping both stations open is “critical” to not only Cameron Park but the surrounding communities — a thought echoed by other fire officials at previous meetings.

CSD Director Dawn Wolfson said approving the two-year Cal Fire contract is not a difficult decision. The difficult decisions will come over the next few months as the board considers how to best serve the community and get its finances in order.

The next CPCSD Board of Directors meeting is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 19, at the Cameron Park Community Center. The agenda will be posted on cameronpark.org.

Mollette Continued from A6 president who is going to cut Social Security or Medicare benefits. Millions of Americans older than 50 do not want the Social Security retirement age raised from 67 to 70. No one in this age bracket is going to support a candidate who infers either of the changes. The full benefits age should never have been raised from 65 to 67. Millions of Americans will pay into Social Security all their lives but never make it to age 67 and thus never collect a penny. Of course, these people can collect a smaller amount if they want to retire at 62 and live on much less money. This is not a viable option for many.

Don’t vote for someone just because they are young and vigorous. Youth is attractive and often charismatic but youth sometimes make mistakes. Don’t vote for someone just because they are 80. Hopefully they are wise and very experienced but may be on the verge of becoming too frail. Look at the whole person. Age is a number. Look at what he or she is able to bring to the job and potentially do to help and lead our nation.

It’s a big decision and don’t make it all about a number.

Dr. Glenn Mollette is a national columnist and the author of 13 books.

Georgetown June 5. Liddicoat’s family told the Mountain Democrat she was last seen by the owner of the property where she lived.

Sheriff’s officials did not share Liddicoat’s cause of death or whether there is an ongoing investigation.

A GoFundMe was started by Liddicoat’s cousin Candice Cook to help the family pay for funeral and memorial services.

“Sarah was taken from us suddenly and unexpectedly and we are devastated by her loss,” Cook states on the GoFundMe post. “Nothing could have prepared us for this. Sarah was a loving mother, daughter, niece, cousin and friend. She was the kindest, most pure-hearted person and everyone who knew her loved her dearly. She will be deeply missed.”

There is also a Sarah Greene memorial account that has been set up at El Dorado Savings Bank.

Announcements

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 334-2970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot. comt

AmericAN AssOc. Of UNiversity WOmeN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 417-7138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net

el DOrADO cOUNty AmAteUr rADiO cLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

LeArN & PLAy criBBAGe Cribbage is a fun, fast paced game that will surely keep you on your toes! **All skill levels **Learn to play by ACC Rules (American Cribbage Congress) **Beginner instruction available **Compete in weekly Cribbage tournaments. Call 916-768-4452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at Steve’s Pizza, 3941 Park Dr., El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

Ready for real change?

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

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

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

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

Hangtown Women’s teNNis club. Join fun-loving women Wednesdays 8am-10am at El Dorado High School. Lessons, social events, only $50/year. Call Cindy 805-540-8654. mArsHALL HOsPitAL

AUxiLiAry is looking for volunteers. It is a rewarding opportunity to do something for the community. We will be holding interviews on Tuesday, May 9, 2023. Please contact Linda Grimoldi at 530-6202240 or call the Auxiliary Office at 530-626-2643.

mONDAy cLUB BriDGe seeks more players. The Monday Club was established in 1949. 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., break for lunch then continue for 2 or 3 more rounds.

seNiOr Peer cOUNseLiNG

Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)6216304 to leave a message and get started.

tAxPAyers AssOciAtiON Of

eL DOrADO cOUNty

Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public except the first Monday of each month. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a nonpartisan organization.

Liddicoat Continued from A1

Firefighters gain new sight

Firefighters in El Dorado County are putting technology to work to help save lives.

The El Dorado County Fire Protection District was able to purchase 13 personal thermal imaging cameras thanks to an $8,000 donation the agency received in February, according to a news release from the fire agency. The donation came from a private family trust.

The Seek Reveal FirePro X cameras utilize thermal imaging to provide firefighters the ability to see through smoke, darkness and other challenging conditions they may face in the field.

This enhanced visibility can aid in search and rescue operations by detecting heat signatures emitted by individuals, including those trapped or hidden. The devices are also able to assist in early detection of fires — identifying dangerously hot surfaces and hotspots as well as hidden fires.

“We are grateful for this generous donation which allowed us to purchase these TICs which enhance the safety and effectiveness of our firefighters,” states EDCFPD Chief Tim Cordero in the news release.

All 13 cameras have been issued to fire stations, allowing for the firefighter of an engine crew on duty to use one as a part of their standard equipment.

This does not mean, however, that every on-duty first responder on a three-man engine company is issued one. The captain of the engine company has been equipped with a similar device for the better part of two decades and the engineer still is unequipped with a device like this.

Isaac Streeter Staff writer

In the KNOW

June 28

The Shingle SpringsCameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking luncheon, 11:30 a.m. at Los Pinos restaurant in Cameron Park. For more information and to register visit sscpchamber.org/mixersluncheons.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a free Fairchild Park Party 5:30-8 p.m. For more information visit edhcsd. org.

Musician Ed Wilson will perform at 36 Handles in El Dorado Hills, 6-9 p.m.

June 29

Bring that box of photos, slides or negatives to the FamilySearch Center in Placerville at 2 p.m. to learn how to digitize them and save these precious memories. Bring a flash drive. For more information call (530) 621-1378.

El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts Live on the Boulevard free concerts every Thursday. The schedule features One of These Nights (June 29).

Forejour (July 13), Joy & Madness (July 20), Maroon Vibes (July 27), Island of Black and White (Aug. 3), Kalimba (Aug. 10), Petty Theft (Aug. 17) Stevie Ray Visited (Aug. 24), Folsom Lake Symphony (Aug. 31) and Uptown Funk (Sept. 7). Set up begins at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

DJ Clarifyey will perform at The Green Room Social Club in Placerville, 8-11 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Hip Nosis will perform a free concert in the Zittel Family Amphitheater in Folsom, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Music in the Mountains presents “Rhapsody In Blue” and “Florence Price Symphony No. 1,” 7 p.m. at The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information visit musicinthemountains.org.

June 30

Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open every Friday and Saturday for open garden days, 9 a.m. to noon. Take a leisurely stroll through all 16 themed gardens. Docents are on site to assist with any gardening questions. Check the website before visiting at ucanr.edu/sites/ EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden.

An antique evaluation event will be held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the California Welcome Center in El Dorado Hills. For more information call (916) 933-1335 or visit eldoradohillschamber.org.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a 4th of July Party for seniors at the Gilmore Senior Center, 1-2 p.m. Sing up in person at the center. For more information visit edhcsd. org.

Don Gato Latin Band with Tacos Pacos will perform at The Green Room Social Club in Placerville, 8-11 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Gotcha Covered performs at Red Hawk Casino’s Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

For

Salsa (dancing) is on the menu at Smith Flat House

Odin Rasco Staff writer

The last Friday of every month the upper floor of the Smith Flat House transforms into a dance studio where pairs dance for hours as Latin music fills the air with an almost hypnotic rhythm. Dancers take to the floor, learning a new dance stepby-step with instructors Joel and Ariel Beall showing them the way, while tables sit ready nearby to hold delicious drinks and dinners ordered from the restaurant downstairs.

The dance nights started off as a case of perfect timing, according to the Bealls. After the COVID-19 lockdowns had lifted, people were ready to go back into the world and have some fun after months locked away. Options were slim, with many businesses still working on limited hours and many clubs and other activities stalled out from months of nonattendance.

“We knew we could help the community out and we wanted to create a Friday night dance scene for couples to go out and play around without having to take a long drive down the hill,” Joel said. “But we didn’t know where we could get one going.”

The Bealls knew a dance night would be a perfect excuse for people to emerge from their homes; the popular Latin dancing night that ran at the Sequoia Bee-Bennett House from 2008-15 and the social dancing nights once held at Gringo’s in Coloma proved there was a demand.

While the Bealls were trying to figure out a way

to get a dance night going, Mason Antonucci, owner of Placerville’s Smith Flat House, was trying to find ways to bring events back to the upstairs space. The three crossed paths one day and got talking. “It was just a perfect fit,” Ariel said.

“There’s tons of dancing in Folsom and Sacramento area,” Joel explained. “But it’s hard to find up here. I was born in El Dorado County, in Placerville, and that’s part of why we wanted to create something like that up here.”

Ariel and Joel bring their passion for dance to every

class, their decades of experience obvious to any onlooker. Ariel has been a professional bellydancer for 25 years and has put more focus on Latin dance for the past five years. “When you learn a new style of dance, it helps when you are married to your teacher,” she joked.

“I’m a very physical and athletic person and also into theater and performing arts. Dance brings those things together and is my favorite form of self-expression,” Ariel told the Mountain Democrat.

Joel’s dance skills stem from

a different kind of athleticism. He has been studying martial arts since he was 9 years old and is a master of capoeira. While studying capoeira and competing in tournaments in Brazil, he picked up some social dances and got hooked. “Martial arts and dance complement each other perfectly,” Joel said. “I learned Brazilian zouk, samba and lambada while I was over there. There’s a lot that translates over from martial arts to dance, that level of

n See DAnce page

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

Ariel and Joel Beall are serving up dance lessons the last Friday of every month. Both of the Bealls bring decades of experience to the table.

nights get into full swing, the floor fills with dancing pairs trying out their newly learned steps. The social dance evenings have proved

el Dorado county Fair celebrates student achievements

Dina Gentry EDC Office of Education

The annual El Dorado County Fair, held June 15-18, celebrated community, education and youthful exuberance. Among the highlights was an invigorating Fun Run led by El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala. The Golden Star Student Booth, hosted by the El Dorado County Office of Education, honored young winners and rewarded their accomplishments.

Youthful energy

One of the most anticipated events at the fair was the Fun Run, a thrilling race where children could unleash their boundless energy. Among the participants was 4½-year-old Maizie Velasco. After completing the race, Maizie expressed her love for running and emphasized the fun she had during the event. Jose Velasco, Maizie’s father, beamed with pride. Overwhelmed with gratitude, he expressed his appreciation for the event, recognizing its significance for young participants.

Jose emphasized that for children like Maizie, this event carried enormous importance, and it mattered as much as distinguished races like the Boston

Marathon. The event allowed children to feel on top of the world, boosting their selfconfidence and inspiring them to achieve more. Upon completing the race, children received an EDCOE water bottle and participation medal.

Celebrating achievement

At the heart of the El Dorado County Fair, the Golden Star Student Booth stood as a testament to the remarkable accomplishments of young learners from all over the county, selected by their schools for a variety of academic and personal achievements. Each deserving winner was allowed to select a prize, symbolizing their achievements and recognizing their hard work. Moreover, they received a complimentary taco ticket for the 20-30 Club booth and enjoyed a memorable photo booth session. Each student took home a photo strip and proudly displayed another to represent their respective school district. The Golden Star Student Booth became a hub of celebration, where the achievements of these young individuals were applauded and cherished.

Volunteer support

The success of the Fun Run and the Golden

Star Student Booth would not have been possible without the dedication and support of numerous volunteers. The Kiwanis Club of Placerville was crucial in organizing the Fun Run, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Volunteers from the local school districts and EDCOE generously contributed their time and efforts throughout the fair weekend, assisting at the Golden Star Student Booth. Their unwavering commitment demonstrated the community’s collective dedication to fostering

n See StudentS page B3

Courtesy photos

El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala, above, leads the youth Fun Run at the county fair earlier this month. Below, students pick up their prizes at the Golden Star Student Booth.

PRESERVE IT!

Enjoying peas during and after the season of abundance

One of the most rewarding legumes to grow in the garden in the spring are peas. It is usually a gentle family debate which is better —snow or sugar snap peas, verses shelling peas. There’s something to be celebrated with both types. Whichever type your family plants, that one packet of pea seeds sown quickly becomes a forest of pea vines, producing a rather large number of pods. When peas come into season, it’s a fast and furious, daily harvest. The more they are picked, the more the plants continue to produce. Peas are most tasty right after harvesting, as the sugars quickly convert to starch within a day or so.

Laurie Lewis

COMICS

■ SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

The best way to preserve both the edible pea pods as well as the shelled peas is to freeze them. Blanching is a necessary step since it stops the enzymes in the legumes from continuing the ripening process, which could lead to loss of flavor, color and texture. Use one gallon of vigorously boiling water per pound of cleaned, prepared peas. Start counting blanching time as soon as the water returns to a boil. Thin snow peas will take 1½ minutes, thick sugar snap peas will take 2-3 minutes. Shelled peas will take 1½ minutes. As soon as blanching is complete, quickly plunge the peas into a large quantity of ice water. Cool the peas the same amount of time as blanching. Thoroughly drain and dry the peas after cooling, as extra moisture will lead to loss of quality when frozen. Remove as much air as possible and pack in freezer bags, freezer containers or vacuum pack and freeze. Label and date the packaging. For best quality, storage should be no longer than eight to 12 months.

For a tasty treat while sipping an iced drink on the patio this spring, try these Minty Pea Toasts with Pickled

■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

Onions (adapted from Food52).

Make the pickled onions by thinly slicing a medium red onion and packing it into a pint jar. Heat up 1/2 cup of red wine vinegar, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1 cup water, and 1 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Pour over the onions, let it cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate for at least two hours and up to two weeks.

For the minty pea toasts:

1 small crusty baguette

3/4 cup unsalted, toasted, chopped, shelled pistachios, divided

10 ounces fresh peas (or snow peas)

1/3 cup fresh mint leaves

1/4 cup whole milk ricotta

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Olive oil for drizzling

Add peas to medium pan with boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until peas are tender. Drain peas and cool slightly. Combine peas, mint leaves, ¼ cup pistachios and salt into food processor. Pulse until mostly smooth, about 1 minute. Add ricotta until combined.

Slice baguette at 45-degree angle into 1-inch pieces; toast; drizzle with olive oil.

To assemble, spread each toast with about 2 tablespoons pea puree; top with pickled onions, pistachios and another drizzle of olive oil.

Interested in getting more food ideas to use for treats and gifts? Sign up for Christmas in July, a fun class to hear about preserved foods you can make all year to use (or give) during the holidays. The class is on July 17, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Register at ucanr. edu/jul152023_mfpclass.

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

Agriculture-minded grads earn AITC scholarships

News release

El Dorado County Ag in the Classroom recently announced the winners of its 2023 scholarships. The honors went to Bella Mendenhall and Elizabeth Rankin. Both recipients are active participants in Ag in the Classroom programs, plan to pursue an agriculture or education related field and are graduates of El Dorado County high schools.

A graduate of Ponderosa High School, Mendenhall will attend the University of Nevada, Reno studying elementary education.

Students Continued from B2

educational excellence and nurturing the growth of young minds.

“Events like the Fun Run provide a wonderful opportunity for our young students to showcase their talent, enthusiasm and determination.

The Golden Star Student Booth celebrates student achievements and inspires them to pursue excellence,” Manansala said. “I am immensely proud of these students and grateful to everyone involved, especially Kathy

■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin

A graduate of Ponderosa High School, Rankin will attend West Texas A&M to pursue a degree in ag education with a minor in ag communications.

Ag in the Classroom is a local, grassroots, charitable organization that has been providing quality agriculture-related educational resources, programs and training opportunities since 2000. Through proceeds from local sponsors and fundraising e orts the organization has donated thousands of dollars through the years to scholarships for graduating high school seniors.

Dunkak and her Fairgrounds team, in making this event successful.”

The El Dorado County Fair was a joyous occasion that united the community in celebrating the achievements of young students. As the fair came to a close, the participants, their families and the community were left with cherished memories and a renewed appreciation for the incredible potential of the next generation.

■ SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

■ TODAY HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis

ARIES (March 21-April 19). While there is no substitute for experience, the stories you share will give someone a vicarious thrill. You’re a naturally talented communicator. Learning the art and craft of storytelling can only increase your influence.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). It’s easier to think through your ideas than it is to carry them out. To make sure your plans will be within the constraints of budget and time, do a trial run to find out how long things really take.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Frustration is a function of imposing your own timeline over the one that is really happening. The mature way is to accept that all happens in its own frame. Be like the gods who have all the time in the world.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Even if you don’t need help and in fact have the winning answer at your fingertips, you’ll still benefit from asking friends for their thoughts and input. If nothing else, it will teach you how unique your own perspective really is.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Getting to know people should not be counted as a distraction or waste. Any amount of time socializing steals from your work will be paid back in the form of opportunities you could never have without the mix and mingle.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Everyone wants the big win, though success can be a curse. How can one repeat it when Lady Luck is so famously fickle with her favors? Devote yourself to that which you can control -- the work that will accumulate over time.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You can trust yourself. Your impulses and instincts are golden, but that doesn’t mean they make sense in the moment. And in fact, you could be puzzled by your reactions, but in time, a bright logic will emerge.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). With focused intensity, you can achieve what you put your mind to. But if you try to conquer everything simultaneously, nothing gets done. Address one change at a time and be patient. Results may take several weeks.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). There is no difference between work that depletes you and work that builds you up. As the bodybuilder lifts until the muscle fails, so will you exercise your skills to the very edge, thus pushing that edge ever-further.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). A paradox: Though the endeavor is a solo mission, you won’t be alone. The minds that went before you and the ideas you’re building on will surround you with their palpable presence. Also, you will attract allies.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ll embody the power of intention. Your sincere desire is to help humanity at large, and you’ll find small ways to do it. There’s no plan here, but with each kind move, the path reveals itself.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). People yearn to be seen and appreciated. Your ability to recognize and appreciate the intriguing and distinctive qualities in others is remarkable. This perceptiveness makes for truly special interactions.

UC Master Food Preserver of El Dorado County

When peas come into season, expect a daily harvest. The more they are picked, the more the plants continue to produce.

Growing kalanchoe

Kalanchoe, pronounced KALen-KOH-ee, are succulents in the Stonecrop family. With more than 125 varieties, these imported plants from Africa and Madagascar come in many shapes and colors and in sizes from 6 inches to 6 feet tall and wide. Leaves are often fluted or serrated and can have varying colors, depending on the variety and the sunlight exposure. For example, the leaves of the Kalanchoe blossfeldiana will change to a deep red when exposed to direct sunlight, thus the nickname “Flaming Katy” or “Christmas Kalanchoe.” Flowers are seasonal, and can be white, pink or deeper shades of red, orange or yellow. The flowers can be bell-shaped or tubular and some of the double blossoms even have up to 26 petals.

Kalanchoe should be watered infrequently and need to dry out completely between waterings. They

are sensitive to root rot, so plant them in cactus mix or other soil that drains completely. Fertilize lightly and only once a month. If they wilt slightly, they will recover quickly after watering. Because they thrive so well in dry conditions, they make great houseplants in low humidity. They can grow adequately outdoors if protected from freezing, but really prefer temperatures warmer than 50 degrees, so a sunny window or protective greenhouse is best for them in the wintertime. In the summer they can tolerate full sun but do best with afternoon shade or filtered sunlight.

To induce your kalanchoe to bloom, it will require a six- to 12-week season of shorter days. The plants need 14 to 16 hours of darkness each day to set flowers, so store them in a darker room in the winter until you see the blossoms form. Once the flowers set, you can expose them to more typical daylight hours and they will bloom within a month or so. Cooler temperatures during blooming help keep the flowers from wilting.

Although generally healthy, kalanchoe can be afflicted by aphids or gnats, which should be removed by picking off or by washing the leaves with water. If grown in a very humid environment, the plants can develop a blistering condition called edema. This causes small dry areas to form on the leaves. Although it leaves ugly scars on the leaves, it is not dangerous and new leaves will not be affected once the plant is allowed to dry out.

Kalanchoe can be propagated by pinching off the tips of stems, with two or more sets of small leaves. These pieces can then be rooted in water or planting media. Certain varieties, such as the chandelier plant, Kalanchoe delagoensis, develop small plantlets along the leaves or on stems, and these can be pinched off to propagate as well. Kalanchoe look best if snipped back occasionally, or if they get leggy from too little sunlight.

Kalanchoe are delightful succulents that can brighten up your windowsill or patio with colored leaves and fanciful flowers. Make sure to check out the various types that are available and watch them grow without much help — they prefer to be ignored.

Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. Find the class schedule at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/Public_Education_ Classes/?calendar=yes&g=56698 and recorded classes on many gardening topics at mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Public_Education/Classes.

Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open every Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon. Master Gardeners will offer tours, answer questions or guests can just enjoy the garden. Check the website for further information about the garden at ucanr. edu/sites/EDC_Master_Gardeners/Demonstration_ Garden.

Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners

Kitty Stewart

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

Pixabay image

Kalanchoe flowers can be bell-shaped or tubular and some of the double blossoms even have up to 26 petals.

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Dance Continued from B1

physical control.”

When the classes began, Joel and Ariel noticed a post-pandemic hesitancy was common in the people coming to classes for the first time. After months at home, told to keep distant from others, they were going to be dancing near other people?

“When we first started I think worries about the pandemic were spilling over and a lot of the people had apprehensions,” Ariel recalled. “But over time, we’ve really seen people’s moods get so much happier. It’s like we saw a bunch of people go from being question marks to exclamation points, in terms of their enthusiasm.”

Though the classes started off slowly, attendance has begun to really take off, according to Joel, with the

Gardener Continued from B4

are working hard to answer your questions. Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website, mgeldorado.ucanr.edu, or leave a message on the office telephone at (530)

upstairs space hitting capacity for dance nights. Classes are open to all ages, with youngsters and seniors alike dancing to the rhythms.

Classes cost $10 per person per evening, with instruction beginning at around 6 p.m. and going for an hour. After instruction, there is open floor social dancing for two hours, with a full food and bar menu available. Every three months the dance styles they focus on change to keep things fresh and to make sure nobody feels left behind.

Readers interested in attending are encouraged to sign up early as space can run out. Smith Flat house is located at 2021 Smith Flat Road in Placerville. For more information about the dance classes email sierra. dance.collective@gmail.com.

621-5512. To sign up for notices and newsletters visit ucanr.edu/master_ gardener_e-news. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

The Public Square

Now Accepting Applications

Deer View Park Apartments

2880 Schnell School Rd.

Placerville, CA 95667

IN EDUCATION sponsors

The Georgetown Divide Recreation District is hiring a part-time Recreation and Facilities Coordinator. This position is year-round,

1 & 2 bdrm apts and also apts with special design features for individuals with a disability. Inquire as to the availability of rental subsidy. Call (530) 626-8600, Mon-Fri, 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., TDD #711. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ACCESS. AWI Management Corporation CA DRE #01821199

Now Accepting Applications Green Valley Apartments

2640 La Crescenta Drive Cameron Park, CA 95682

1, 2 & 3 bdrm apts and also apts with special design features for individuals with a disability. Inquire as to the availability of rental subsidy. Call (530) 677-3351, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., TDD #711. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ACCESS.

49’er Bail Bond

Adco Driveline and Custom Exhaust Adept – Med International, Inc.

ARCO AM/PM

Artistic Beads & Studio

Best Western Stage Coach Inn

Burke Junction CAPTRUST

Carbon Copy, Inc.

Conforti Plumbing

Edwards A-1 Appliance

El Dorado County Fair

El Dorado Irrigation District

EN2 Resources, Inc.

Farmers Insurance – Sean Smith

Frank’s Body Shop, Inc.

Gordon Mott Roofing Co., Inc.

Kamps Propane

Lake Oaks Mobile Home Community Mountain Roofing Systems

The Green House Café

Triangle Well Drilling

Western Sign Co., Inc. WSD, Inc.

The Mountain Democrat’s Newspapers in Education program (NIE) was established in 2002 to provide and educational service arm for the newspaper.

PLACERVILLE-$1.00 a square foot, includes utilities, 200sf –720sf each, office, storage, light industrial? 4600 Missouri Flat Rd, (530) 622-2640

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Solution to Puzzle 1

Solution to Puzzle 2

NIE’s goal is to assist schools, teachers and parents in developing future readers who can use the newspaper to enrich their own lives and participate responsibly in their community, state and nation.

Not only does the Mountain Democrat provide valuable information on a wide range of topics daily, it also can be used as a resource for teaching numerous skills to various age groups and in many different disciplines. It helps students connect classroom lessons to the real world around them and develop a positive and

relevant lifetime reading habit. A study released by the Newspaper Association of America Foundation shows data indicating students in NIE programs do 10 percent better on standardized tests and that significant increases in student performances occur, especially in middle schools. Donations from our sponsors allow our educators to order the newspaper for their classrooms free of charge. These sponsorships contribute to literacy and allow thousands of teachers and students in El Dorado County to learn from a living textbook, the Mountain Democrat, and develop a life-long reading habit that will benefit them throughout their lives.

HFW Enterprises, LLC

Jurassic World Live Tour roars into Sacramento

News release

Sacramento, CA —Jurassic World Live Tour, an exhilarating and unpredictable live, family entertainment experience that brings the wonder and thrills of Jurassic World to generations of fans, will be roaring into Sacramento for the first time ever this summer playing Golden 1 Center, 500 David J Stern Walk, for six action-packed performances from June 30 to July 2. With unrivaled arena production quality, Jurassic World comes to life against a backdrop of captivating scenery where dinosaurs from the iconic franchise, including fanfavorite Velociraptor Blue and a Tyrannosaurus rex more than 40 feet in length, take center stage. The production features more than 24 film-accurate, life-sized dinosaurs, with scale, speed and ferocity, operated by animatronics and performers. Fans of the popular Netflix animated series “Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous” will also recognize Bumpy, the friendly and food motivated dinosaur, as she goes from baby to adult fairly quickly.

Jurassic World’s unmistakable

score combined with projection and practical scenery transforms the arena into the dense jungles of Isla Nublar, where real Gyrospheres roll through the valley and scientists work to unravel a corrupt plan and save a new dinosaur from a terrible fate. With pulse-pounding stunts and an original, authentic storyline, Jurassic World Live Tour is guaranteed to make memories that will last another 65 million years.

Guests will be able to start the adventure early with a special Preshow Experience included with all ticket purchases. By arriving one hour before showtime, audience members can see their favorite Jurassic World dinosaurs and vehicles up close and personal, including fun photo opps with Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Baby Bumpy, and the iconic Jurassic World Jeep and Gyrosphere.

The Friday, June 30 show is at 7 p.m.; Saturday, July 1 shows are at 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, July 2 shows are at noon and 4 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or visit the venue box o ce during open hours on event days.

Stay up to date with a subscription to the Mountain Democrat website: mtdemocrat.com. Call (530) 622-1255 to subscribe.

Public Notices 

or “No Time for Lowtide,” June 30 through Aug. 6 at the Coloma Theater. For tickets and more information call (530) 626-5282 or visit oldecolomatheatre.com.

A schedule of superstar headliners will perform at the Harveys Outdoor Arena during the Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series. Acts featured: Old Dominion (June 30 and July 1), Sammy Hagar & The Circle (July 14), Dierks Bentley (Aug. 4), Foo Fighters (Aug. 10), Sam Hunt (Aug. 13), Darius Rucker (Aug. 19) and Kane Brown (Aug. 31 and Sept. 1). For tickets and more information visit visitlaketahoe.com.

Bally’s Lake Tahoe presents Piff the Magic Dragon (June 30), Zoso Led Zeppelin Tribute (July 1), Clay Walker (July 7), Michael Franti & Spearhead (Aug. 13) and Boz Scaggs (Aug. 17). For tickets and more information visit ballys. com.

July 1

Apple Hill Growers are celebrating at Lavender Blue Harvest Days July 1 & 2. The lavender harvest should be on full display at Bluestone Meadow Farm. And more Apple Hill Growers (wineries, brewery, farm stands, B & B and more) will be sharing the Lavender Blue love at their farms with special activities and products. For more information visit applehill.com/events.

Mastroserio Winery in the Fair Play area hosts a birthday celebration for Rugerro, 1-4 p.m. Have Italian wood-fired pizza paired with a favorite wine and celebrate. To RSVP text (530) 417-4321.

Hattie Craven and Alex Jordan will perform at The Green Room Social Club in Placerville, 8-11 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents

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shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: July 14, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 4 at 1354 Johnson Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a

“Seussical Kids,” July 1-23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Amador City hosts Dancin’ in the Streets parties, 6-9 p.m, with the following acts scheduled: Route 88 (July 1), Double Take (July 8), On Air (July 15) and The Blowbacks (July 22). For more information visit the website, VisitAmacorCity.com.

Music in the Mountains presents “Toy Story” in concert, 6 p.m. at Western Gateway Park, Penn Valley. For tickets and more information visit musicinthemountains.org.

July 2

El Dorado Western Railroad offers train rides at the El Dorado Station, 4650 Oriental St., beginning at 10 a.m. the first and third Sundays of each month. Trains leave on the hour 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., weather permitting. Call ahead to ensure trains are running at (530) 663-3581.

Sierra Vista Winery hosts a food and wine pairing featuring its reserve Tiger Lily wines, noon to 3 p.m. For more information call (530) 622-7221 or visit sierravistawinery.com.

Terra D’Oro in Plymouth hosts the 13th annual Cru-Zin in the Vineyard, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For tickets and more information email info@ terradorowinery.com.

Now

Broadway at Music Circus presents Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” through July 2. For tickets and more information visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Capital Stage presents “Predictor” through July 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.

name and phone number

property. Notice

To Property Owner: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (877) 440-4460 or visit this Internet Web site www.mkconsultantsinc. com, using the file number assigned to this case 220105005. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Notice

To Tenant: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code.

OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 6/14, 6/21, 6/28, 7/5 11924 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF PATRICIA A HOlBROOK CASE NO. 23PR0048

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of PATRICIA A. HOLBROOK A PETITION for Probate has been filed by CASSSANDRA

If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (877) 440-4460, or visit this internet website site www.tlssales. info, using the file number assigned to this case 220105005 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and

without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived