Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, July 26, 2023

GO SOLAR! Visit Our shOwrOOm 672 Pleasant Valley Road, diamond sPRings

$ 129 staRting at • No dowN paymeNt • 100% fiNaNciNg

mOnth Cal s un C O nstru C ti O n Lic#1039193

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES! See ballot on page A7 Smoke fills the air as a Cal Fire firefighters head off to aid in efforts to contain Sunday’s blaze in Somerset. Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco

Noel Stack

Managing editor

The Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors voted last week to begin the processes that could lead to annexation of the district’s fire department and/or placing a property tax assessment on the ballot to fund the fire department.

At the same time staff will work with consultant Don Ashton with Municipal Resource Group on an analysis of the tax assessment amount needed to cover the fire department’s personnel, building and equipment needs. The board approved a not-toexceed $45,000 contract with MRG at its July 19 meeting to assist with both the assessment and annexation.

Once the district selects the agency with which it would like to pursue annexation, the process will take 12-18 months, Ashton told the board. The CPCSD currently has

FrEE COnsultatiOn 530-683-5518

A vegetation fire that sparked in Somerset Sunday sent nearby residents out of their homes in a temporary evacuation before crews contained the 13.75-acre blaze. Smoke went up just before 2 p.m. Sunday near Rontree Lane, less than a mile southeast of Gray’s Corner along Fairplay Road. Fire

a fire services contract with Cal Fire that runs through June 30, 2025.

“I should note that the board can pull the plug any time,” Ashton said of the annexation process.

To further aid in the process, the board approved a $70,000 contract with AP Triton to conduct a fire agency annexation feasibility study.

CPCSD interim General Manager Jill Ritzman said information and figures in this study are also useful for the tax assessment process.

Between now and next spring, the district will host community meetings as necessary.

A timeline adopted by the board notes the district should know by March 30, 2024, at the very latest, if annexation is feasible and should move forward. If not, the CSD can begin contract negotiations with Cal Fire to enter into a multi-year contract beyond the current agreement’s expiration date. Also at that time the board will determine if a tax assessment ballot

n See fire page A8 n See CPCSD, page A6

Flames scorch 13 acres Cameron Park explores options Cemetery Cleanup Diamond Springs/El Dorado Community Coalition members, above, spent Saturday morning at the Diamond Springs Cemetery clearing 2-to 3-foot-tall star thistle, overgrown grasses and downed branches from gravestones dating back to the 1800s. The cemetery is on the corner of China Garden and Pleasant Valley roads with many former residents of the area are now resting on the little knoll. On Friday a crew with El Dorado County came out to cut larger branches out of trees and help give volunteers a clear start on the cleanup. One of the coalition organizers said the group has “hopes of preserving and maintaining the stories exhibited in this corner of a truly important historic California town ... anticipating quite an exciting relationship with the past residents now resting on this hill, hoping to discover more adventures of times gone by.” Cemetery cleanup volunteers pictured from left are Pat Husser Brown, Sheri Arnsten Miller, Greg Alterton, Pat Woolston, Linda Colombo, Josh Yielding, Alicia and Kelly Selby and Larry and Kim Rolla. Breaking out the weed whacker, right photo, is Greg Alterton. Photos courtesy of Linda Columbo

#1 DENTIST! New Patients Always Welcome!

DENTIST Eight Times!

Jeff Little, DDS General & Cosmetic Dentistry

• Roof Repairs • Roo ng • Decks • Remodeling • New Construction • Emergency Repairs

Mention CODE: MD *Call for details. May not be combined with other offers, estimates or prior purchases. Quantities Limited.

ROOFING • SOLAR • SIDING $1,750 Your Next Project! OFF up to “Look For My Column On Page 3 Today!”

PLACE ADDRESS LABEL HERE Serving our local communities for over 54 years

3.250 3.61 Fixed Rate Annual Percentage Rate 15 YEAR HOME LOAN Purchase • Re nance 180 Monthly Payments of $7.03 per $1,000 Borrowed

Check the El Dorado Advantage: ✓ No application fee ✓ No prepayment penalty ✓ Local processing and servicing

fires flaring up ahead of the main fire. Multiple copters and at least 10 fire engines were called in for support in an effort to keep the fire from spreading to structures or into a nearby valley, which would exacerbate fire California’s o ldest n ewspaper – e st. 1851 nd 172 PLACERVILLE 4040 El Dorado Road 622-1492 PLACERVILLE (Downtown) 247 Main 622-0833 W. PLACERVILLE Placerville Dr. & Ray Lawyer 626-3400 DIAMOND SPRINGS 694 Pleasant Valley Road 626-5701 CAMERON PARK 4060 Cameron Park Drive 677-1601 POLLOCK PINES • 6462 Pony Express Trail • 644-2363 EL DORADO HILLS 3963 Park Drive • 933-3002 GEORGETOWN • 6310 Hwy. 193 • 333-1101 Se Habla Espanol 800-874-9779 Maximum loan $417,000.00, primary or vacation residence. 20% minimum cash down payment on purchase. 25% equity required on refinance. Other loans available under different terms.

3.250 3.61 Fixed Rate Annual Percentage Rate 15 YEAR HOME LOAN Purchase • Re nance 180 Monthly Payments of $7.03 per $1,000 Borrowed Serving our local communities for 65 years 3811 Dividend Dr., Suite A, Shingle Springs (916) 985-9995 • (530) 672-9995 www.straightlineconstruction.com

Serving our local communities for over 54 years

PLACERVILLE • 4040 El Dorado Road 622-1492 PLACERVILLE • (Downtown) 247 Main 622-0833 W. PLACERVILLE • Placerville Dr. & Ray Lawyer 626-3400 DIAMOND SPRINGS • 694 Pleasant Valley Road 626-5701 CAMERON PARK • 4060 Cameron Park Drive 677-1601 POLLOCK PINES 6462 Pony Express Trail 644-2363 EL DORADO HILLS • 3963 Park Drive • 933-3002 GEORGETOWN 6310 Hwy. 193 • 333-1101 Se Habla Espanol 800-874-9779 Maximum loan $417,000.00, primary or vacation residence. 20% minimum cash down payment on purchase. 25% equity required on refinance. Other loans available under different terms.

5.125% 5.42% 180 Monthly Payments of $7.97 per $1,000 Borrowed Maximum loan $650,000, primary or vacation residence.

Check the El Dorado Advantage: ✓ No application fee ✓ No prepayment penalty ✓ Local processing and servicing

• ZERO DOWN 100% Financing • 30% TAX CREDIT • ELIMINATE POWER BILL • INCREASE HOME VALUE • LOCALLY OWNED Since 1997 ALL THE SECURITY AT A BETTER PRICE! For Your Roof Repair Or Replacement! ( 916 ) 906-3731 FREE ESTIMATES! 3867 Dividend Dr., Ste. C, Shingle Springs trustsequoia.com Lic# 1064775

Odin Rasco Staff writer

OBITUARIES

Obituaries on this page are written and paid for by the families or funeral homes. They are edited minimally by the Mountain Democrat. To submit an obituary, call (530) 622-1255, e-mail obits@mtdemocrat.net, fax (530) 344-5092, or visit mtdemocrat.com under “Submission Forms” at the bottom of the website. Include contact information with all submissions.

Jennifer (Parr)

Schnabel

Sept. 17, 1970 – July 16, 2023

A dedicated wife, mother, and homemaker, Jennifer (Parr)

Schnabel passed away on July 16th 2023 at 52 years of age in Placerville, CA.

Jenny is survived by her loving husband Terry Schnabel and her five children: Katherine, Jonathan, Jessica, Abigail, and Isabelle. She is predeceased by her cherished mother Dorothy Katherine (Robinson) Parr and her father Robert Stephen Parr. Jenny is also survived by her six older siblings: Mike, Randy, Cindy (Hardy), Richard, Chris and David.

The youngest of her siblings, Jenny was born on September 17th, 1970 in Oakland, CA. After graduating from Upper Lake Highschool, she moved to Alameda to attend community college classes. Moving to the Sacramento area, Jenny lived with and near her mother to care for her.

On July 9th, 1994 she married her beloved husband Terry Schnabel. They bought their first home together in Citrus Heights where they began to raise their family, eventually settling in El Dorado County.

Living her life as a devoted homemaker, Jenny raised and taught her five children for most of their early education. She enjoyed cultivating bountiful gardens as well as seeking any opportunity to make things from scratch. Enjoying time in nature, both at home and hiking with loved ones, Jenny fostered an appreciation for wildlife, especially birds. She attended various churches in the Placerville area, immersing herself in the Gospel, her daily devotions and scripture where she would find peace.

Jennifer will be laid to rest near her mother at the Lodi Memorial Cemetery.

A funeral service will be held at the Lodi Funeral home, 725 S Fairmont Ave. on July 29th at 10AM.

Margrete Victoria Spencer (Hughes)

Feb. 14, 1948 – July 6, 2023

Margrete passed at home in Kelsey on her 54th anniversary after a lengthly illness. Margrete graduated from El Dorado High School as part of the notorious class of 1966. If you remember we were part of the funeral march through Placerville to the “old” El Dorado High, where we had a funeral and buried a brick with a sermon from the youth minister from the Episcopal Church. The class of 1966 was in bad graces by all our elders. That is just one of the reasons the class of 1966 will always be remembered. Next Margrete attended American River College in Placerville better known as UBR, University behind Raleys. Next Margrete attended Sacramento City College.

Margrete was always a busy person all her married life. She was part of the start up group of the now closed First Christian Church of Placerville. The church was a small group that met on the fairgrounds in the Veterans Building. To get new members there was a PIE & CAKE feast after the sermon. The church grew quickly to the point that we could build the church on the hill over Cold Springs Road. After moving to John’s old family homestead in Kelsey, Margrete got into breeding old breed sheep. Next Margrete worked with the Black Sheep Association and got a certified Black Sheep Show started at the county fair. It was getting bigger each year until there was a change in the fair board and it was decided to remove their support. Margrete had a large rabbit barn built and started raising and selling meat rabbits for a few years.

We saw an ad that the probation department needed a foster home. After the ad kept being printed for weeks we checked it out and became foster parents for up to six kids at a time. In short we had well over 125 kid through our home. After giving up our license we adopted two of the kids after they aged out out of the probation system. Margrete was a yarn spinner and loved to challenge herself with different types of wool or even cat and dog hair. Margrete was preceded in death by her parents attorney Geoffrey A. Hughes and Bertha M. Hughes; brother Geoffrey A. Hughes II, and uncle Robert (Bob) Hughes. Also, adopted son Steven Lee Cron.

Margrete is survived by her husband of 54 years John Robert Spencer, sister Bert Jackson, nephew Jason Jackson, grandson Steven A. Cron and great grandson Huxley Spencer Cron. Our other adopted son Chris Pinckard.

With that said in the early 1980’s Margrete was in for a big surprise. A private detective approached her with “your birth sister has hired me to locate you”. This lead to a big brother, big sister just to mention two out of a giant family. She was still making friends when she lost her new big brother, big sister and many aunts and uncles. There will be no services. No flowers PLEASE, I can’t keep up the watering of her indoor & outdoor plants. Her wish is for you to check out websites Hands for an African Child and Saving Mono Lake. Another choice would be Snowline Hospice.

Jack Richmond Winkler

Sept.

8, 1927 – June 5, 2023

Jack Richmond Winkler passed away in Placerville on the afternoon of June 5, 2023 at the age of 95 years.

Jack was born September 8, 1927, in Ukiah, CA, to parents Elizabeth Ann (Kingwell) and George Richmond Winkler. After two years of Naval Service (1945-1947, USS Terror), he attended Santa Rosa Junior College, graduating with an Associate Degree with high honors in 1949. He attended Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco and received a Juris Doctor degree in 1952.

Jack served as District Attorney of El Dorado County for 12 years (1954-1966) then moved to the o ce of the California State Attorney General where he worked for 24 years. During his time with the Attorney General, he served as Chief Assistant of the Criminal Law Division (1975-1980) and Chief of the Opinion Unit (1980-1990).

Jack was an active member of the Placerville Lions Club, twice serving as president (1958-1959, 19941995), and was named Lion of the Year in 1991.

Jack was always deeply interested in the history of Placerville and El Dorado County. After years of careful research, he wrote and self-published a book on the subject: Old Hangtown – A History of Placerville, California from 1848 through 1856.

Jack married Juanita (Nita) Mae Cortez on March 7, 1953, and the couple lived in Placerville for over 65 years where they raised their three children.

Jack was predeceased by Nita in 2021 and his eldest daughter Reva in 2016. He is survived by his son Jay and daughter Lisa (Hale), Jay’s two sons Gates and Haynes, and their two daughters Maia and Sylvia.

David George Shelton

Oct. 19, 1947 – June 21, 2023

David George Shelton lost his fight with cancer after a fourteenyear battle on June 21, 2023.

A forty-four-year resident of Placerville, David was born in Waynesville, North Carolina to Alberta and Paul Shelton in October 1947.

He was drafted into The Vietnam War on his eighteenth birthday and valiantly served his country on the front-line as a combat infantryman. David was awarded two Purple Hearts. His military service in Vietnam was defining. David was a patriot and fought the e ects of Agent Orange as he fought any battle — with courage, dignity, and grit.

After Vietnam, David worked for himself as a heavy-duty diesel mechanic — and, man, could he work! He was a meticulous mechanic — always dedicated to doing things right the first time.

David is preceded in death by his father and mother and leaves behind countless friends and a broken-hearted family, including numerous nieces and nephews, two adoring sisters (Paula and Peggy), his car-collecting buddy and brother-in-law (Dale), his most cherished daughters, Jacqueline and Charlotte (Willie) and two grandchildren (Chenndra and Chase).

David was a man you could count on. He embodied the Infantryman’s Creed: “never yielding to weakness, to hunger, to cowardice, to fatigue, nor to superior odds.” For David was mentally tough, physically strong, and morally straight.

A Celebration of David’s Life and Military Service will be held at the VFW Post 6158 located at 8990 Kruitof Way in Fair Oaks, CA from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm on Saturday, July 29, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be given to K9s for Warriors in his name. https://k9sforwarriors.org.

Lori Kay Kielty

Aug. 28, 1960 – June 20, 2023

Lori Kay Kielty, 62 years old, passed away on Tuesday, June 20th, 2023 of breast cancer. She is survived by her husband, Kenny Kielty, her kids and their spouses, Jarrett & Jenny Scheurer, Brianna & Ian Mack, Katelyn & Randy Mercado and Brendon & Alyssa Kielty; her grandchildren, Colton, Allorrah, Emily, Natalie, Jocelyn and Theia June. Brothers Phil and Steve Morris and sister Karen Armstrong along with many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles are also deeply sadden by the loss of our sister (our parents Jim & Gayle Morris and our brother Kirk Morris all preceded Lori’s death).

Lori will be remembered for her GREAT sense of humor, her positivity, her wonderful talent at making beautiful quilts and handmade jewelry but most of all for her strong faith in Jesus Christ our Savior. We all love you Lori and we know that we will see you again someday. As our Mom used to say ... bye for now.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, September 7th, 2023 at 1:00pm at Green Valley Community Church in Placerville, Calif.

Michael Rakowicz

June 16, 1946 – June 21, 2023

Michael Rakowicz was born in Oakland, California on June 16, 1946. He died of an infection that developed into sepsis on June 21, 2023, five days after his 77th birthday, and he passed at home in Walkersville, Maryland. Mike was the son of Bernice (102 Years Young) and the Late Maurice Rakowicz, brother of the Late John Rakowicz and sister of Janet (Bob) Walker and wife of Lois Calzone. In addition, he was “step-dad” to Jeremiah Horn of San Jose, CA. He grew up in Hayward, CA and graduated from Sunset High. His cousins, the Bradford’s and the Boeger’s were his frequent companions. It was his grandfather Ernie who took young Mike on elk and deer hunting camping trips to Montana, creating a life-long interest in the sport. His pleasure in working on and collecting cars began early in his teen years. Having rolled his Camaro at high speed once was fortunately enough to make him a safe driver for the rest of his life. Immediately after graduation, Mike worked odd jobs. Entertainment was going with his brother and friends to the psychedelic Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco for live shows by 60s rock and roll legends. And yes, Mike always laughed as he repeated the quote, “If you remember the 60s, you weren’t there.” Mike acquired warehouse management skills working for his dad’s Kordon Corporation, marketing aquarium industry products including Tetramin fish food. In 1969, Mike traveled with his family on a month-long trip to Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Eventually he moved to Baltimore, Maryland, to manage the company’s East Coast warehouse. That is where he met Lois Calzone and his new life began. His ability to make friends and maintain quality friendships over his lifetime was remarkable and attested to his kind heart and generous, thoughtful approach to people. With his warm smile and gentle laugh, Mike loved all people and always made others feel special- a trait that made one want to be with him. He had ongoing friendships with schoolmates, beginning from pre-teen years, with former work colleagues and their families and with local farmers he helped by thinning the ranks of the “whistle pig” groundhog population on their farms. He especially loved his fellow gun enthusiasts, George Herold and family, and enjoyed Saturdays working at Herold’s Gun Shoppe. It sometimes seemed like he became genuine friends with everyone he met, including Lois’ ex-husband, Jerry! Mike was very funny, quick with clever puns and hilarious nicknames, especially for his much-loved pets. He renamed Lois “Rockmelon/Rockymelon” which he used a ectionately. His devotion to his family was immense. He treasured his two nephews, Paul Ulbrich and Pete Ulbrich, who always referred to him as “Uncle Cool.” He was remarkably close to his cousins Bryan and Nicki Bradford, his friends Bob and Elaine White of Redding, CA, and Chris Miller of Woodbine, MD. Partners for more than forty years and married for one year, Lois brought to the relationship her three adult children, Kim Barton, Brian Barton, and Jude Taylor. Mike was there to welcome the births of each of his grandchildren, Sam Gay, Johnny Gay, Joey Gay and Maggie Fallon and became known as “Ol Grampy.” In addition, he was great-granddad to Lucas Gay, Thomas and Nathan Gay, and Sebastian Fallon. Mike’s Mom always said he was so amazingly lucky to have wonderful grandchildren without having to raise any kids. A memorial service is to be held in August, which was Mike’s “favorite” East Coast month. Mike was loved enormously and will be missed greatly. https://www.sepsis.org for information regarding sepsis. Expressions of sympathy may be o ered to the family at www.Stau erFuneralHome.com.

Edward Ingram

Nov. 21, 1956 – July 16, 2023

Ed passed away unexpectedly on July 16, 2023. He is preceded in death by his father Robert (Buck) Ingram and his daughter Melissa Ingram. He is survived by his wife Tammy Danz/Ingram, Daughter Kara Vizcarra (Ingram), Sons Derek Ingram and Austin Ingram, Step-Son Josh Danz, Stepdaughter Kori Sudduth, a GraGra to 7 Grandchildren, 2 Great grandkids and many more loved ones. He was born in Sacramento, Calif. and resided majority of his life in El Dorado County. He graduated in 1974 from El Dorado High School which during that time he worked at the Blue Bell Co ee Shop and Placerville Fruit Growers. He went on to working for the Garden Valley Fire Department, playing college football in Oregon, ranch hand in Macdoel Oregon, Cal Trans Supervisor for 35+ years from which he retired from, owned his own business E & T Tractor Service with his wife Tammy. After retiring from Cal Trans he worked for The Glassman and most recent was with C & H Motor Parts. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, camping, operating equipment, quading, gardening, spending time with friends and family who will greatly miss him. We love you! The family will hold a special Celebration of Life at Pine-O-Mine in Camino, Ca on August 6th 2023 from 11-1pm. In lieu of flowers, a donation in his memory can be made to the California Deer Association. Call Board Member Todd Stevens @ 916-524-5008 to donate.

Neil Thornton Phillis

May 20, 1937 - July 6, 2023

Neil Phillis passed away on July 6, 2023, age 86, at his home in Diamond Springs after a lengthy battle with prostate cancer.

Neil was born in Coal Run, Ohio to William and Helen Phillis. He was the fourth of five children. He served his country in the U.S. Marine Corp in the Korean War from 1954 to 1957. It was very rare that you would see Neil without his “U.S. Marine cap.”

After moving to the San Fernando Valley in Southern California, Neil met his future wife, Diann Renschler. After a short “courtship” they were married on July 18, 1964. They were blessed with a wonderful son, Craig.

Neil started an automotive repair business (Neil’s Automotive) in 1980 which is located in Diamond Springs. He retired from the business in 1994.

Neil was an avid fisherman. He and his wife bought a house on the Sacramento River in Tehama, California. He loved walking down to his dock and boat with his dog Austin (his fishing buddy) and heading down the river to fish and watch the bald eagles and other animals. After nineteen years in Tehama, they decided to move back to Placerville to be near family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Helen Phillis, sister Sara Lou Bishop, and brothers James and Blaine Phillis.

He is survived by his wife Diann, son Craig (Darlene), granddaughter Sarah Ruark (Ryan), grandson Bailey (fiance Kinsey Del Rio) sister Karen Dottl, sister-in-law Clarice Renschler and many nieces and nephews.

Per Neil’s wishes, there will be no services. There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Not snake oil but car sellers suspect auto oil used in scam

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

Two Cameron Park residents say they became victims of a car sale scheme and urge the El Dorado County community to be on the lookout.

They claim several men are contacting people selling vehicles and putting oil in the cars’ coolant reservoirs while meeting with the sellers at their homes. Oil in the coolant can be a sign of a bad head gasket or other issue, something that would lead a prospective buyer to ask for a price reduction.

Preston Forsberg, 22, and Kevin Khouri, 27, share similar stories — after posting online listings to sell their vehicles, they were contacted by potential buyers and met with those interested at their homes. Both men told the Mountain Democrat they had no problems with their vehicles before the group of men showed up. Forsberg, selling a

5-DAY FORECAST

2000 Toyota Tundra for $6,000, said he suspected that while he was distracted talking to one of the men behind the vehicle, others were putting oil in his truck’s coolant reservoir.

“Nothing came across as suspicious until after I signed the title away but what confirmed it was another man in Cameron

Park who was selling his Camry encountered the same group putting oil in his coolant reservoir, showing he had a blown head gasket,” Forsberg said. “I was alone. That’s how they got me. If I had someone else, that wouldn’t have happened. Someone could have seen what was happening while I was distracted in

the back of the truck.” Forsberg claims by doing this they were able to trick him into knocking the price down to nearly half his asking price. “I went inside after the sale super frustrated because I thought the car didn’t have any issues,”

■ See SCAM page A8

Tahoe murderer denied parole

Odin Rasco Staff writer

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Board of Parole Hearings met July 19 and denied the release of an El Dorado County man convicted for the 1988 murder of his wife.

Albert Brooks shot his wife Roberta Woody twice in front of her 11-month-old daughter on April 23, 1988, in South Lake Tahoe, according to information from the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce. Brooks shot Woody because he saw she had a photograph of another man; Woody had previously filed a restraining order against Brooks.

After the murder Brooks attempted to take an acquaintance hostage at a gas station; he was

eventually convinced by the acquaintance to leave. Brooks then went to the home of a female friend, pulled out the gun he had killed his wife with, threatened to kill her and take her hostage and then fondled her. The woman was able to get away and call the police. Brooks was arrested and ultimately pleaded guilty to second degree murder Nov. 15, 1988.

During the parole hearing, the board determined Brooks’ criminal history and the “callous and heinous nature of the crime” proved his release still posed an unreasonable risk for the safety of the community. Commissioners determined Brooks continues to objectify women and has not su ciently changed his way of thinking, and that Brooks’ risk factors were “well above average.” Brooks will be denied another parole hearing for three years.

Lobo Trail home, outbuilding burned

Mountain Democrat staff

A fire that damaged a Garden Valley home July 22 started in an outbuilding outside the residence, according to the Garden Valley Fire Protection District.

The following was taken from Placerville Police Department logs:

July 10

7:35 p.m. Officers cited a 28-yearold man allegedly driving on a suspended license on Main Street.

7:58 p.m. Officers cited a 26-yearold man allegedly driving on a suspended license and having expired registration and no proof

I’m a reliable, clean, quiet, respectful person. Have references. Looking for, safe, pleasant, dependable place, close to work to call home for 3 months.

I own my own home in Redding, so hope to pay moderate, to low rent, can’t pay excessive rent, due to obvious double cost. Need as close to Apple Hill — Placerville as possible. Open to

At approximately 7:25 p.m. Garden Valley firefighters were dispatched to the 4700 block of Lobo Trail, finding the outbuilding blaze had already spread to the home. Fire crews knocked down and extinguished the flames that

left the outbuilding a total loss and charred a portion of the residence, fire o cials reported. Medics treated one resident with minimal injuries on scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

a traffic stop on Highway 50.

of insurance on Highway 50.

July 11

9:36 a.m. Officers arrested a 29-year-old man who had an outstanding felony warrant on Canal Street.

July 12

12:41 p.m. A stolen vehicle was recovered on Placerville Drive.

Dr. Little’s Dental News

Presented by Jeffery Little, D.D.S.

WHY IS NITROUS OXIDE USED AT THE DENTIST?

We’ve all heard of dentists using “laughing gas” during a dental procedure. Otherwise known as nitrous oxide (N2O), mixing with oxygen creates a mild sedative effect that relaxes the patient. The gas is inhaled through a mask and takes affect within minutes. The N2O slows down the nervous system to make patients feel calm and comfortable during the procedure, but they should not fall asleep. Afterward, the N2O wears off quickly as the patient breaths pure oxygen through a mask. Nitrous oxide is not recommended for every patient, but you may receive it if you have severe dental fear or anxi-

July 13

9:16 a.m. Vehicle embezzlement from a dealership was reported on Forni Road.

9:48 a.m. Officers arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion being under the influence of a controlled substance on Briw Road.

10:25 a.m. Misconduct was reported on Country Club Drive.

July 14

5:46 a.m. Burglary was reported on Placerville Drive.

ety. N2O is also used when patients experience a gag reflex from dental instruments in the mouth.

Ours is a unique, full-service, advanced dental care facility, designed to provide patients with the most comfortable, up-todate, convenient oral care available today. We’ll keep an eye on your complete oral health when you join our ever-growing list of smiling patients. For stateof-the-art dentistry and a dedicated professional dental team, call us soon for an appointment.

P.S. While nitrous oxide is otherwise known as laughing gas, it does not usually cause giggling in dental patients.

1:44 p.m. Officers arrested a 48-year-old man on suspicion of possession of a concealed knife and illegal drug paraphernalia on Fair Lane.

5:48 p.m. A vehicle fire was reported on Forni Road.

July 15

9:23 a.m. Officers arrested a 44-year-old man who had a felony warrant on Placerville Drive.

9:36 a.m. Officers arrested a 53-year-old man on suspicion of felony vandalism on Broadway.

12:24 p.m. Officers contacted a 31-year-old man on probation on Tunnel Street. The suspect reportedly resisted arrest.

8:32 p.m. An assault was reported on Broadway.

10:48 p.m. Officers arrested a 48-year-old man during an investigation on Fair Lane.

July 16

1:56 a.m. Officers arrested a 39-year-old woman after reportedly finding narcotics during

6:36 p.m. Officers arrested a 35-year-old man on suspicion of public intoxication and loitering on Golden Street.

8:20 p.m. Residential burglary and vandalism were reported on Grandview Street.

July 17

7 p.m, A firearm was reported lost on Placerville Drive.

11:16 p.m. Theft was reported at a home on Canal Street.

July 18

12:49 a.m. Officers arrested a man who had a felony warrant following traffic stop on Highway 50. He was later released.

2:18 a.m. Officers cited a 44-yearold man who had an outstanding warrant on Conrad Street.

July 19

2:31 p.m. Narcotics were reportedly found on a male patient at Marshall Hospital.

6:50 a.m. Officers arrested a 35-year-old woman on suspicion of trespassing on Placerville Drive.

7:19 a.m. Officers cited a 48-yearold man allegedly in possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Placerville Drive.

9:58 a.m. Officers arrested a 49-year-old man who had an outstanding warrant on Placerville Drive.

7:51 p.m. Officers arrested a 47-year-old man on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance on Broadway.

Courtesy photo

Kevin Khouri’s home camera captures interested buyers looking under the hood of a car he was selling. Khouri claims the two men poured oil into his coolant reservoir in an attempt to buy the car for less than asking price.

Will China buy your land?

The world’s total land mass consists of 36.8 billion acres of inhabitable land. (Businessinsider.com)

A few people own a lot of our planet.

King Charles III or the Crown Estate owns 6.6 billion acres of land worldwide.

This includes Great Britain, Northern Ireland, Canada (90%), Australia (23 %) and a few other spots here and there. They also own the Falkland Islands.

With 6.6 billion acres, King Charles III or the Crown Estate, is far and away the world’s largest landowner, with the closest runner-up (King Salman, Saudi Arabia) who holds control over a mere 547 million acres and a net worth of over $18 billion.

Coming in number three on the list is Pope Francis with 110 acres owned by The Holy See constitute Vatican City. Also, roughly 17 million more acres of various lands are owned by the Catholic Church throughout the globe, including the hundreds of Vatican embassies legally titled to The Holy See as an independent nation.

Ted Turner ranks high in major world land owners with over 2 million acres of land owned in Georgia, Montana and Argentina. (Businessininsider. com)

Je Bezos owns about 400,000 acres with much of that being in Texas. (Payback.fm)

Letters to the Editor

How long?

EDITOR:

Bourbon lovers might be surprised to learn that a large number of Kentucky favorites are owned by Japanese companies. Way back in 2014 Japanbased Suntory bought Jim Beam ... for $16 billion.

Bill Gates owns about 242,000 acres of farmland according to celebrity.net.

According to the US Department of Agriculture, there are approximately 911 million acres of farmland in the United States.

There has been concern about China’s growing land purchases in the United States. Chinese purchases of U.S agricultural land has sparked concern in Congress among a bipartisan group of lawmakers — but 18 other countries own more American agricultural acres than China.

Here are some of the American landowners:

1. Canada (12,845,000 acres)

2. Netherlands (4,875,000 acres)

3. Italy (2,703,000 acres)

4. United Kingdom (2,538,000 acres)

5. Germany (2,269,000 acres)

6. Portugal (1,483,000 acres)

■ See MOLLETTE, page A5

How long will it take for:

1. The tangled mess of fallen trees and cables on the Highway 49 bridge between Diamond Springs and Placerville to be removed?

2. The same area’s dangerous trees and limbs to be removed and cleaned up?

3. The parking lot/creekside mess near the Tap House to be fixed?

4. Tunnel Street, Spring Street to the Placerville Senior Center driveway, to get a decent paving job?

5. County government o cials, boasting grand/ modern buildings plus a brand new ($68 million) sheri ’s facility, to realize the county Public Health Department is outdated with totally inadequate buildings and deplorable parking? This department probably provides more services to more people, employs more people and is more worthy of a beautiful new facility than many of your spending ventures. That whole building complex is an embarrassment to the community it serves so well.

6. Larry Weitzman and George Alger to discern the di erence between fact, fiction, fantasy and opinion?

KATHERINE ALLEN Diamond Springs

Questions

EDITOR:

Scott Taylor, an ardent high priest of the global warming church, wrote in his latest end-isnear rant that he has questions for me. Fine, I have some answers for him.

He asks why does the right dismiss what scientists say of global warming? To that I respond, why do those “scientists” excommunicate and basically cancel any scientists who disagree with them on this subject? This intimidation basically gives the impression that all scientists are of one mind on this, which they are not.

Mr. Taylor asks how we explain calamities if warming is not real. OK, Mr Taylor, how do you explain that according to Al Gore arctic ice would be gone during some months by 2013? And you failed

to mention that the record for the world’s highest average temperature really only goes back to 1979 when they started keeping those records.

Then Mr. Taylor resorts to absurdity saying we should turn our lives upside down if there is even a microscopic chance of these grim forecasts. By that thinking, Mr. Taylor, you would leave your car in the garage in order to avoid the microscopic chance of an accident.

And, for the best part of all, even the leftwing New York Times printed an editorial pointing out that with what China, Vietnam and India are pumping into the air, our expensive and economy-damaging e orts are accomplishing absolutely nothing.

But as I have said before with alarmists like Mr. Taylor, climate is not a science; it’s a religion.

GEORGE ALGER Placerville

Be joyful

EDITOR:

Iam 83 now. It took about 80 years before

I concluded that attitudes and feelings are choices. I now believe that we are all co-creators of the reality we live in. I have decided to purposely shape my reality into joyfulness.

Take driving as an example. I used to be impatient when driving. I did not have a positive attitude toward drivers who cut me o in tra c.

Then I read an article about a driver who decided to believe he should bless whoever cut him o because that driver was in the midst of an emergency. So our kindly motorist would slow down and say, “Be blessed. I pray you arrive safely and everything will be OK when you get there.”

I decided to do this, reluctantly at first. But now I have changed into a more considerate driver and I react positively to the needs of other motorists. Similarly, I came to realize I cannot give love and kindness to others unless I first develop them within myself. This was the message delivered at Asbury College, Kentucky. The speaker challenged the senior class not to graduate without fully accepting the love

■ See LETTERS, page A5

The Rural Life There’s much to hoot about when it comes to owls

Have you ever wondered where the common expression “wise old owl” comes from?

Certainly not from the character Owl in A.A. Milne’s 1926 classic, “Winnie-the-Pooh.”

That owl is a fusty know-it-all who uses big words (usually incorrectly) to show o . A terrible speller, he writes his own name “Wol” and thinks “HIPY PAPY BTHUTHDTH” is “Happy Birthday.”

Perhaps because of this very cluelessness, Owl has delighted me since childhood. To this day I’ve been known to wish someone a “HIPY PAPY BTHUTHDTH.”

But Milne’s owl seems to be the exception, as the notion of owls as wise creatures prevails in literature and mythology. Ancient Greeks thought owls’ ability to see well at night came from mystical insight, so they linked the bird with their goddess of wisdom, Athena.

In Native American culture, owls symbolize wisdom and foresight. Brainy owls appear in American pop culture, too, not the least of which is Harry Potter’s astute snowy owl, Hedwig.

As impressive as they are in myth and culture, however, owls are even more amazing in real life. Noel Stack, the managing editor of your Mountain Democrat, is a self-described owl fan.

“The one spectacular display I saw,” she recently told me, “was an owl swooping down and nabbing a bat right out of the air while I was walking my dog one night.”

Owls manage a feat like this — snatching a nimble, erratically flying creature in dim light — using superb senses. One of them involves extralarge, super-specialized eyes. (How large, exactly? Up to 5% of the owl’s total body weight. For comparison, according to the American Bird Conservancy, “your eyeballs are about 0.0003% of your total weight.”)

And there’s more. Everyone knows owls can swivel their heads spookily far in either direction — 135 degrees each way, to be exact. But did you know why? It’s to compensate for the fact that they can’t move their eyes the way most creatures can.

Owls’ eyes are tube-shaped instead of eyeball-shaped. They extend far back into the owls’ heads to accommodate an extra-large retina

As if all this weren’t enough to make owls super predators, they are near-silent flyers as well. Their prey never hear them coming.

with many rods for night vision.

These fixed-in-place and forwardlooking eyes give owls almost supernatural binocular vision. This includes focus and depth perception keen enough to detect movement at great distances, even in near-dark conditions.

Indeed, according to Audubon.org, “The northern hawk owl can detect — primarily by sight — a vole up to half a mile away.”

Impressed? Well, owls’ hearing is equally gob-smacking. It can detect potential prey that’s hidden far below under ground cover, dirt or snow. Many owls’ ears are set at di erent heights on the head; this helps them tell, based on tiny di erences in sound waves, exactly where a sound is coming from. (Note that you can’t actually see owls’ ears; what look like ears or horns are actually tufts of feathers whose exact purpose still stumps biologists.)

Also contributing to owls’ superhearing is a ring of sti , dense feathers that form a curved wall around the face to catch and reflect sound toward the ears. Think of cupping your hand behind an ear to

improve your own hearing.

As if all this weren’t enough to make owls super predators, they are near-silent flyers as well. Their prey never hear them coming.

“The quiet flight of owls is an act of biomechanical stealth that still challenges science,” writes Jennifer Ackerman, author of “What an Owl Knows: The New Science of the World’s Most Enigmatic Birds.” She notes, “Only recently have biologists and engineers begun to sort out the details and to use what they’ve learned to design quieter things, among them wind turbines, fans, trains and airplanes.”

Seeing is believing, I promise you. View a dramatic, four-minute video of a BBC Earth experiment comparing the flight noise of a pigeon, a peregrine falcon and a barn owl by searching at YouTube with the phrase “how does an owl fly so silently?”

Spotting an owl in real life is challenging, as most species are active mostly at night and well camouflaged in the day. (How well camouflaged? Search Google Images for “owls in

■ See FORSBERG MEYER page A5

JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER

GLENN MOLLETTE

Mollette Continued from A4

7. France (1,316,000 acres)

8. Denmark (856,000 acres)

9. Luxembourg (802,000 acres)

10.Ireland (760,000 acres)

Source: Forbes.com

China ranks No. 18 and owns roughly 384,000 acres of U.S. agricultural land, according to a 2021 report from the USDA. Of that, 195,000 acres, worth almost $2 billion when purchased, are owned by 85 Chinese investors, which could be individuals, companies or the government. The other 189,000 acres were worth $235 million when purchased and are owned by 62 U.S. corporations with Chinese shareholders. Chinese agricultural land ownership only increased about 550 acres from 2015 to 2019. Their ownership jumped 30% from 2019 (Forges.com)

Chinese food manufacturer Fufeng Group bought 300 acres of land near Grand Forks, N.D., to set up a milling plant. The project is located about 20 minutes from the Grand Forks Air Force Base, raising national security concerns. (CNBC.COM)

Then known as Shuanghui Group, WH Group purchased Smithfield Foods in 2013 for $4.72 billion. It was the largest Chinese acquisition of an American company at that time.

Bourbon lovers might be surprised to learn that a large number of Kentucky favorites are owned by Japanese companies. Way back in 2014 Japan-based Suntory bought Jim Beam at a 25% premium over market value for $16 billion. That means the world’s best-selling bourbon, Jim Beam, is actually owned by a Japanese company. Suntory also owns Maker’s

Mark, Knob Creek and Basil Hayden. (NBCnews.com)

If you have American land or business to sell, no worries, someone from China or another foreign country just might be interested.

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

Letters Continued from A4

of God within themselves. The speaker asserted that too many Christians loved shallowly because they had not concluded that God loved them completely. We cannot give away something we do not have.

If we doubt God’s love for us, the love we share with others is shallow and incomplete.

The students at Asbury accepted the challenge to pursue the fullness of God’s love. They did not leave the meeting hall that night, but remained there in worship and prayer, earnestly seeking God’s love so that they could love others as He loved them.

Scripture says we shall seek Him and find Him when we seek Him with all of our hearts. The Asbury students displayed purity of intention by remaining in the meeting auditorium until they received God’s answer. His answer was the beginning of a spiritual revival that continues today.

Do you choose to seek God’s love so that you can live a joyful life overflowing with love for others? Just askin’.

CECIL RINGGENBERG Placerville

tree hollows” and prepare to be floored.)

According to iNaturalist.org, El Dorado County boasts at least 11 species of owls. Probably the most common is the great horned owl (and remember, those are ear tufts, not horns). Its “hoot-hoo...hooo, hooo,” sounding like a muffled foghorn from a distance, is the call we most associate with owls.

Barn owls are another common species in our county. Their name indicates one of their most popular hang-outs. These owls are probably the easiest species to identify because of their large, white, heart-shaped face. Their hearing is the best of any animal tested — approximately 10 times as sensitive as our own. And, according to a 2017 study, that hearing isn’t subject to age-related deterioration. (Lucky bird.)

Burrowing owls are also relatively common in our area. These small, long-legged birds have fierce expressions and, unlike other owls, are photographed most often standing on the ground. That’s hardly surprising, as they use abandoned rodent burrows for roosting and nesting cover.

I could go on but I’m already past my word limit. Learn more about these fascinating birds online, including how to spot them in the wild. Better still, find like-minded enthusiasts at sierrafoothillsaudubon.org.

It would be a wise move.

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.

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 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.

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.

Rabies reminder: Disease present in local skunks

“All 58 counties in California are rabies endemic areas, which means the rabies virus is always present in the community,” said Animal

Henry Brzezinski. “Rabies can be fatal. El Dorado County Animal Services strongly urges pet owners to vaccinate all dogs, as required by state law, as well as cats against rabies and to keep their pets under a watchful eye.”

Since the beginning of 2023 El Dorado County Animal Services has identified seven skunks that tested positive for rabies. The most recent

rabid skunk was found July 1 in the 4400 block of Blanchard Road in Placerville. During the months of April and May, two rabid skunks were found — one in the 500 block of Jim Hill Road in Placerville and one in the 2800 block of Polaris Street in Pollock Pines. Between January and March, four rabid skunks were found — one in the 4400 block of Blanchard Road in

measure should be placed on the November 2024 ballot and, if so, direct sta to prepare resolutions and ballot language for approval.

These actions are part of the district’s e orts to ensure the CSD remains financially solvent while providing services residents have come to expect.

The CSD has struggled with stagnant revenues and increasing expenses over the past few years and the budget deficit is projected to grow wider in the coming years. To save money this fiscal year, the board might have to brown out Fire Station 88 — a move strongly opposed by residents. That decision is expected to come back to the board in late January 2024.

Whatever route the CSD takes,

Placerville, one in the 5400 block of Comstock Road in Placerville, one in the 4400 block of Fawn Street in Shingle Springs and one in the 3600 block of Penobscot Road in Placerville.

Animal Services has reports of rabid animals each year. In 2022 Animal Services identified a total of 22 animals (three bats,

Director Dawn Woflson said community involvement and education is vital. “We want to make sure we have good messaging,” she said.

Director/Board President Sidney Bazett said he hopes the county will also get involved. County leaders for years have encouraged fire districts to consolidate, he noted. He asked if it’s possible county leaders could pitch in funds to cover some annexation expenses.

LAFCO Executive O cer Shiva Frentzen, who is also a Cameron Park resident, encouraged the directors to “ask a lot of questions” during the annexation exploration process. She returns to the board for LAFCO’s presentation Aug. 16.

Apple Donuts

Apple Pie

Asian

Bakery

BBQ

Breakfast

Coffee

Delicatessen

Dinner

Donut Store

Fine Dining

Hamburger

Ice Cream / Frozen Yogurt

Italian Lunch

Mexican

Pizza Pub Grub

Ribs

Steak

Sushi

Thai

DINING

Mountain Democrat

2023

Fitness Center

Hair Salon

Nail Salon

Massage/Spa

Tattoo/Piercing

Yoga Studio

HEALTH & BEAUTY

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Appliance Repair

Carpet Cleaning

Contractor

Door Replacement & Accessories

Electrician

Equipment Rentals

Floor Covering Store

Furniture Store

Garage Doors & Repair

Glass Replacement – Commercial

Glass Replacement – Residential

Heating/AC

Home Décor

House Cleaning

Interior Design

Landscaping/Design

Lawnmower Sales/Repair

Nursery/Garden Store

Painting

Plumbing

Pool, Spas & Accessories

Power Tools Sales/Rental

Roofing

Septic Service

Solar Co.

Stove/Fireplace Store

Tree Service

Window Treatments

RETAIL STORES

Shoe Store

Toy Store

Travel Agency

PETS

Doggie Daycare

Kennel

Pet Groomer

Pet Trainer

Veterinary Clinic

Fire Continued from A1

conditions.

An hour into the firefight, law enforcement reported forward progress of the fire had been halted at 3:23 p.m. Evacuation orders were lifted at 4:45 p.m., though roads near the fire remained closed until the next morning.

Fire crews worked through the night to continue the “heavy mop-up”

efforts, reaching 98% containment by Monday morning, according to Wendy Oaks, public information officer for the Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit. No structures were burned and no injuries were reported resulting from the fire.

Crews and engines are expected to continue patrolling the area for a few days.

e

Scam Continued from A3 Forsberg said. “When I went back outside to check on them they already left, which was suspicious since the car supposedly had issues. That’s when I thought something was fishy and I started to Google car buying scams and I came across a scam that was exactly what happened word for word to me.”

Forsberg said his suspicions grew after hearing Khouri’s story, which also occurred on the same day July 15.

Khouri said he was selling his Toyota Camry for $4,000 when three men arrived at his house to inspect the vehicle. Khouri suspects one of the men distracted him while another put oil in his coolant. Khouri said he caught on to the incident after taking

Rabies Continued from A6

18 skunks and one cat) that tested positive for rabies in El Dorado County. Historically, most rabid animals in El Dorado County are identified on the county’s West Slope, with smaller numbers reported in the South Lake Tahoe area, according to Brzezinski. Last year, rabid animals were found in numerous locations on the West Slope of El Dorado County, including the Placerville area, Shingle Springs, Georgetown, Garden Valley, Pollock Pines, Kelsey, Greenwood and Somerset. Animal Services Health Program Specialist Mary Hill advised pet owners should ensure that both dogs and cats are vaccinated. “Keeping cats up-to-date on their rabies vaccine is important due to the fact that many people keep their cats outdoors, and cats are especially interested in wildlife,” said Hill. “Also, puppies may now be vaccinated as early as three months of age; the law changed several years ago regarding the age when puppies can be vaccinated against rabies. In addition, and importantly, Animal Services advises that if you or your pet has contact with a suspected rabid animal that you report it immediately so that rabies testing can be performed.”

Rabies is a virus spread through the bite and saliva of an infected animal. It is usually fatal to pets and humans if not treated shortly after exposure. While any animal can become infected with the rabies virus, bats, skunks and foxes are the animals most

the car for a test drive with the men and ended up not selling the car to them.

“Something seemed off but I figured we are in a small town and I have a ring camera … I didn’t think it would be a big deal,” Khouri said. “I learned my lesson. When dealing with people on the Facebook Marketplace, always have somebody with you.”

Khouri later checked his security footage and saw what appeared to be the men pouring oil into his coolant reservoir.

Both say they filed police reports with the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office. The agency did not respond to inquiries on the matter as of press time.

commonly found to carry the virus. Comprehensive vaccination programs in the United States have meant that rabies among domestic pets is now uncommon.

To prevent the spread of rabies:

• Maintain current rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and livestock.

• Keep property free of garbage, stored bird seed and leftover pet food to avoid attracting wild animals.

• Keep pet doors closed at night to prevent entry of wild animals into the home.

• Never approach, pick up, feed or interact with unfamiliar dogs, cats or wild animals.

• Don’t approach an animal that appears sick or aggressive. Report it to Animal Services.

• Don’t touch a dead animal with bare hands.

• Call Animal Services if a domestic or wild animal shows signs of rabies (such as staggering, confusion, lack of fear or aggressive behavior).

• Notify Animal Services immediately if a person or pet is bitten or exposed to a suspected rabid animal.

• Immediately notify Animal Services if you find a bat alive or dead in your bedroom.

For more information about rabies or Animal Services visit edcgov.us/ animalservices. To reach Animal Services by phone call (530) 621-5795 in Diamond Springs or at (530) 5737925 in South Lake Tahoe.

Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco

Flames lap the base of trees along Fairplay Road.

In the KNOW

Stellar student

Congratulations to Triston King of Shingle Springs, who recently received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technology.

Now Broadway at Music Circus in Sacramento presents “The Addams Family” through July 30. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Straight From DeHart Productions presents “New Truck for Paulie” through July 30 at California Stage in Sacramento. For tickets and more information visit straightfromdehartproductions.ticketspice.com/ new-truck-for-paulie.

The Olde Coloma Theatre presents “Pirates Too: The Captain’s Triangle” or “No Time for Lowtide” through Aug. 6 at the Coloma theater. For tickets and more information call (530) 626-5282 or visit oldecolomatheatre.com.

The Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park presents “For the Love of Dog” through Aug. 13. For tickets and more information call (916) 5242540 or visit stageatburke. com.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents Monty Python’s “Spamalot” through Aug. 13. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Mómtim Péwinan, River People

Shingle Springs Band of Miwok

SACRAMENTO — The Sacramento History Museum

located in Old Sacramento State Historic Park has debuted a newly created exhibit titled Mómtim Péwinan, River People curated by the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Exhibits and Collections Center.

The all-new exhibit officially opened to the public on Saturday, July 22, and will remain on display permanently in the museum’s third floor in the Community Gallery. The exhibit features items specifically made for this exhibit, including four fullsized mannequins dressed in seasonal attire plus regalia, tools, instruments and games — all created by today’s tribal artisans using the techniques and knowledge of their ancestors.

The Sacramento History Museum stands on Nisenan land, in Nísem Péwinan territory, where many of the materials in this exhibit were gathered. The artwork and elements in the new exhibit combine research and inspiration, showcasing the artful innovations of the makers, who hail from numerous tribal communities

throughout the region. Though all these families uphold their own distinct traditions, languages and cultures, they utilize many of the same natural materials found in the Central California landscape.

The community is encouraged to explore and learn about contemporary Nisenan culture and how today’s artists and

Photos courtesy of the Sacramento History Museum

The Mómtim Péwinan, River People exhibit features items specifically made for this exhibit, including four full-sized mannequins dressed in seasonal attire plus regalia, tools, instruments and games. n See Exhibit, page B4

...to our NEWSPAPERS IN EDUCATION sponsors

Grow For It!

Beyond barbed wire: How virtual fencing is turning the Old West into a new frontier

Special to the Mountain Democrat

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. 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.

Recent advances in virtual fence technology are rapidly providing cost-effective opportunities to revolutionize grazing management practices and livestock production systems. Virtual fencing, an alternative technology to traditional physical fencing, enables ranchers and land managers to control livestock distribution across extensive landscapes without the intensive labor, expense and logistical efforts required by traditional fencing. Ranchers create virtual fence boundaries in a digital map software that communicates through radio

towers to GPS collars worn by the livestock.

This technology trains animals through a combination of associative learning, a method where animals associate a certain response to a stimulus resulting in a positive or negative outcome, and operant conditioning, a method of learning that uses rewards and punishment to modify behavior. In the case of VF, an unpleasant stimulus, such as audible sounds or a mild electrical pulse, is utilized as positive reinforcement to discourage the behavior of crossing the virtual fence. Then, once the livestock respect the VF, the sound and the electrical pulse stop, which is the equivalent of negative reinforcement, and will have the impact to encourage them to stay away from the virtual boundaries. The result of this learning method is

n See vIrtual Fence page B3

...And to our generous subscribers who donate their vacation credits to the fund.

HFW Enterprises,

University

Virtual fence

Continued from B2

expressed as a modification to existing behaviors or the development of novel behaviors. This reflects the conscious or unconscious recognition of a contingency.

Animals learn about their foraging environment via two primary systems:

1. Gut defense system which detects internal nausea (hours to days). For example, when an animal eats a plant it will get a positive or negative digestive feedback.

2. Skin defense system which detects external pain (seconds to minutes). For example, when an animal touches a plant with thorns it may feel pain and avoid the area.

VF systems train livestock through the skin defense system by using stimuli such as sounds and mild electric shocks to cause location avoidance.

In November 2022 the technology was tested on a ranch in Sutter Creek. The site had been ungrazed for 20 years and, as a result, medusahead (Elymus caput-medusae), which is an undesirable invasive grass, had taken a foothold and become the dominant species. Research has shown that medusahead can reduce grazing capacity by 80%. As a winter annual, the plant is quick to germinate and can outcompete more desirable

forages. As it ages, the plant becomes less palatable with high silica content and long awns that can cause injury to livestock. Over time, medusahead can accumulate thatch and it is not uncommon to see thatch 6-10 inches thick.

The objective of this trial was to determine if VF technology could be used for high intensity, short duration grazing to reduce medusahead thatch, thereby creating conditions for more desirable forage species to grow. At the beginning of the trial there was an average of 5,090 pounds of dry forage/thatch. After grazing for 10 consecutive days with 25 cows/calves on 3 acres, the pasture was grazed to an average of 524 pounds of thatch per acre. This resulted in a reduction of thatch by 87%. Two weeks after treatment the grazed plot was already showing more diversity of desirable grasses and forbs as visually compared with the untreated plots. The research continues and more findings will be reported.

This article was written by Flavie Audoin, a UC Cooperative Extension livestock and natural resources advisor; Brian Allen, UC Cooperative Extension assistant specialist; and Scott Oneto, UC Cooperative Extension farm advisor.

LOOK for this year’s READER’S CHOICE ballot on page A7 in today’s edition of the Mountain Democrat!

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

HOROSCOPE

n TODAy

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Your aim to improve an environment can be approached from many angles.

The work you do to an aesthetic will contribute to the emotional and practical sides, too. Wherever you apply your ideas, they will have a positive impact.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Self-awareness gives you insight into the human condition we all share. Despite your uniqueness, you have similar patterns of behavior, motivation and thought to the people around you. To find out what they want, ask your own heart.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Deconstruction is a method of learning. You’ll take a thing apart to get a comprehensive understanding of how it works. There’s a risk you won’t be able to put it back together, but you’ll have the knowledge to build anew.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You prefer not to care, and say you don’t care, but you find yourself thinking about a thing for days on end, so... you care. The feeling will drive you to act, and action will lead to improvement.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’re paying attention. Nothing will get by you. You’ll see potential trouble and fix it before it’s a problem. You’ll recognize fleeting opportunity and seize it. You’ll ask the astute question that cracks open the vault where the gold is.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). It doesn’t seem like space should be a hard thing to make or give, but it really can be in an environment filled with things and people competing for room. What would it take to get more freedom to stretch?

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). It’s a day of meaningful con-

tributions. These are costly, which is partly why they matter. The expense may not have been financial. Keep in mind that dollars are sometimes the least valuable currency to exchange.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Someone is helping you navigate today. Without this person you would still find your way, though it would likely take you longer and the journey wouldn’t be nearly as fun. The appreciation you show helps keeps a good thing going.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You can’t tell how a choice will ultimately play out. Though you’re not in total control of your evolution, don’t doubt for a second your ability to change what you want to change. You’ll apply yourself and you’ll do it.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). The past will get some sorting. Some memories will be stashed in the “forgive and forget” drawer of your heart while other memories will be kept on your heart’s mantel, where they can be celebrated on the regular.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Trustworthy people around will have you feeling relaxed and flexible. It won’t all go to plan, but you don’t mind being thrown for a loop because, with people you enjoy, the ride is fun.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Your perspective matters more than you think today. If you see the scene as “good,” you’ll organize the elements to the best of your ability to make sure that “good” is what it becomes.

UC Farm Advisor Scott Oneto

of California researcher Brian Allen measures medusahead before grazing. This invasive grass had taken over a Sutter Creek field that hadn’t been grazed in 20 years.

by Holiday Mathis

Honors from tHe California state assembly

culture bearers maintain the old ways through the practice of traditional ecological knowledge. Sharing this continued resourcefulness is a way to provide museum visitors with a well-rounded view of tribal cultural resilience and enduring values.

The Sacramento History Museum is supported by the Sacramento History Alliance, a nonprofit organization that also manages the Sacramento Visitors Center, Old Sacramento Underground Tours, Gold Fever! Games, Anytime Tours, and Living History Programs. For more information about the Mómtim Péwinan, River People exhibit or the museum, located at 101 I St., visit sachistorymuseum.org.

Senior farmers market check booklets available

The El Dorado County Area Agency on Aging has a limited supply of Senior Farmers Market check booklets for El Dorado County older adults who meet age and income guidelines. Each eligible senior may receive one booklet. Each booklet has five checks redeemable for $10 each to be used at Certified Farmers Markets to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, cut herbs and raw unprocessed honey. Checks are good at Certified Farmers Markets in California.

To be eligible, older adults must be residents of El Dorado County, at least 60 years of age and meet the following income guidelines: one-person household with annual income less than $26,976 or $2,248 monthly; or two-person household with no more than $36,482 or $3,041 per month.

Know Continued from B1

B Street Theatre at The Sofia in Sacramento presents “Insertion” through Aug. 13.

For tickets and more details call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

July 27

The Cameron Park Community Services District hosts the All Inclusive Lake Pop Up featuring crafts at a scavenger hunt, at 10 a.m. to noon at Cameron Park Lake. The event is free. Registration is recommended but not required. Visit cameronpark. org/all-inclusive-lake-pop-up.

If you’ve ever been curious to network with others focused on improving your confidence through public speaking and communication, join Statement Makers – El Dorado Hills/Cameron Park for an open house and officers induction ceremony at Los Pinos in Cameron Park at 6:30 p.m. It’s a group of folks who bring positive and encouraging vibes to feeding personal and professional growth potential.

El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts Live on the Boulevard free concerts every Thursday with Maroon Vibes performing this week. Set up begins at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

Chicken Fried Cats Life will perform at The Green Room Social Club in Placerville, 6-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

July 28

Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open again 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.

Musician Ed Wilson will perform 6-8 p.m. at Jack Russell Farm and Brewery in Camino.

Smith Flat House in Placerville hosts a Bumgarner Winemaker’s Dinner with four courses at 6:30 p.m. For reservations (required) and more information call (530) 621-1003.

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

Modern Relics will perform at Red Hawk Casino’s Stage

The limited supply of check booklets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis on the dates and at the locations as follows:

• Wednesday, Aug. 2,8 a.m. to noon in the Burke Junction parking area, located at Coach Lane and Strolling Hills Road in Cameron Park.

• Saturday, Aug. 5, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Garden Valley Park, located at Garden Valley Road and Marshall Road in Garden Valley.

• Tuesday, Aug. 8, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the American Legion Hall parking area, located at 2732 Lake Tahoe Blvd. (Highway 50) in South Lake Tahoe.

• Saturday, Aug. 12, 8 a.m. to noon in the Regal Cinema parking area at 337 Placerville Drive in Placerville.

Seniors may designate an individual (proxy) to receive their check booklet and make purchases at the Farmers Market on their behalf. A proxy form must be completed by the eligible senior in

Bar in Placerville, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

Jessica Malone will perform at 7 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

July 29

Come out to the beautiful and educational Sherwood Demonstration Garden to learn the benefits of summer fruit tree pruning: what to prune in the summer vs winter, the reasoning, creating fruitful trees and more. In this informative class for beginners as well as intermediate learners, 9 a.m. to noon. Master Gardeners of El Dorado County will demonstrate different pruning techniques and share general fruit tree care of pome, stone, persimmon and citrus trees.

Holly’s Hill Vineyards in the Pleasant Valley area hosts live music with Jordan Wells at 1 p.m. For more information visit hollyshill.com/events.

Dr. Paul Sunseri, clinical psychologist, hosts a free mental health workshop for parents, at the El Dorado Hills Library, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Parents

only, please. To register visit parentworkshop.eventbrite. com.

Poor Red’s BBQ in El Dorado presents Back to the ’80s at 5 p.m. featuring music by DJ Brandon Domingues, trivia with Lacey, a costume contest and drink specials.

Sierra Vista Winery in the Pleasant Valley area presents The Fabulous Liars, 5-8 p.m. For tickets and more details call (530) 622-7221 or visit sierravistawinery.com. wanna

advance so that the designated proxy can pick up the booklet during the distribution event on behalf of the qualified senior. Proxy forms can be picked up at the Placerville Senior Center, 937 Spring St. Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more details call El Dorado County Senior Information & Assistance at (530) 621-6369.

For a list of certified farmers markets in El Dorado County visit eldoradofarmersmarket.com/ markets. For more information about older adult services in El Dorado County visit edcgov.us/ SeniorService.aspx.

Freelance Reporters Wanted

FREELANCE OPPORTUNITIES

Like writing?

Have journalism experience?

Enjoy photography?

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

The Public Square

Exciting Opportunity

Water Treatment Plant Operator III, IV, V III: $37.38-$45.43/hr

IV: $39.26-$47.71/hr

V: $41.27-$50.17/hr

www.eid.org

Substitute Cafeteria Assistant, Cook, and Maintenance Custodian Positions at Sly Park Set your own schedule and enjoy the flexibility of a substitute at the beautiful Sly Park Conservation and Environmental Education Center near Pollock Pines.

Starting Hourly Rates: Cafeteria Assistant -$16.40 hr., Cook- $19.01 hr., Maintenance Custodian - $19.49 hr. Click here to apply today: http://www.edjo.in/1807592

For more information, contact Sacramento County Office of Education Personnel Dept. 916-228-2332

■ SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

Solution to Puzzle 1

Solution to Puzzle 2