■ National Night Out celebrations coming to the county and city
Odin Rasco
Senior sta writer
s the first
ATuesday in August approaches, communities across El Dorado County and the United States are preparing for an evening of music, fun, conversation and, of course, free food in recognition of National Night Out.
First introduced in 1984 and involving 400 communities, NNO has grown into a truly nationwide event intended to enhance relationships between neighbors and their local law enforcement agencies. By bringing together towns and neighborhood blocks, NNO is an opportunity
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for neighbors to meet and chat with each other and bring together communities and police in a positive way, according to the NNO web site.
El Dorado County has been an active participant in NNO for decades, with celebrations set for locations across the county (and across the week — El Dorado Hills will be celebrating the event on Friday, rather than Tuesday). Sponsors supply the food and fun activities for the kids, and many community events also feature live music.
Placerville’s yearly involvement in NNO has garnered no small amount of attention, earning the No. 1 spot among all California communities celebrating the event multiple times. This year, community parties will be held at:
• Grocery Outlet • Placerville Union
Noel Stack Editor
Even before the last of the Christmas cookies are gone, Stacie Walls, coordinator for Toys for Tots El Dorado County-Placerville, is already thinking about next year — how to improve the distribution process, how to get more toys and cash donations and how to get additional volunteers involved.
Walls’ tireless e orts have not gone unnoticed as the local campaign recently received Local Community
1 dead, 1 hospitalized in Hwy 193 collision
Odin Rasco Senior sta writer
A 79-year-old man was killed and his 4-year-old passenger rushed to a hospital with major injuries after a vehicle crash on State Route 193 Thursday, July 25.
California Highway Patrol o cers were dispatched to SR 193 near Circle Drive shortly after 1:40 p.m., discovering a Toyota Highlander SUV and a Freightliner truck towing a trailer had collided. The driver of the Highlander, Stefan Key
of Hidden Valley Lake, was pronounced dead at the scene, while his passenger was transported via helicopter to UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento for emergency care. The identity of the 4-year-old has not been made publicly available.
CHP crash information does not indicate the driver of the Freightliner, 32-year-old Jacob Morgan from Pueblo, Colo., sustained any injuries as a result of the crash.
The cause of the incident is still under investigation, according to CHP o cials.
ESSENTIALS
Gloria Miser
May 23 1947 – July 10 2024
Gloria Miser, 77 of Placerville passed away on July 10th after a long battle with multiple health issues. She is preceded in death by her husband Robert Miser; her mother Connie Torres; her father Daniel Torrez; her sister’s Frances Davis and Sara Torres; her brother’s Daniel Torres Jr., Jesse Torres, Michael Torres and David Torres. She is survived by her son Ronny Miser; sister’s Mary Soto, Kathy Rogers and Virginia Torrez; brother’s Louie Torres, Johnny Torrez, and Carlos Torrez; and numerous nieces and nephews. Gloria was born in Clarksburg, CA. She was a native of Placerville, CA but resided in Ontario and Richmond for a period of time while her husband served in the Navy. She was a longtime employee of 24 years at Florence’s Dress shop in downtown Placerville and 34 years at Flyers gas station on Placerville Dr. Gloria lived life to it’s fullest and in her spare time enjoyed knitting, playing bingo, spoiling and dressing her dogs, watching game shows, traveling, and spending time with family. She was a beloved mother, sister, aunt, and friend who will be greatly missed by all. Services were held at Chapel of the Pines, 2855 Cold Springs Rd in Placerville with a viewing on July 29, from 4pm-7pm and funeral service took place on Wednesday, July 30, at 10:00am Following funeral services, she was laid to rest with graveside services taking place at Westwood Hills Memorial Park 2720, Cold Springs Road in Placerville.
Leland Gordon
Feb. 24, 1941 – July 9, 2024
On July 9, 2024, Lee passed away in Camino. He is survived by his loving wife Jean of 61 years. Lee was born in San Francisco to Lennon and Frances Gordon. He has 3 daughters Sherie Baker and husband Paul, Laurie Gordon and Julie Gordon. He has 7 grandchildren Douglas and wife Ellie, Katherine and husband Justin, Sarah, Cameron, Nicklaus, Mary Jane, Jonathan and 4 great grandchildren Finn, Tristan, Kira and Leo. Lee grew up in San Carlos, and enlisted in the United States Air Force for four years. He received a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Engineering, he worked for Westinghouse and the Department of Defense for 40 years. He’s lived all over the world in Goose Bay Labrador, Canada, The Philippines and in Germany. Traveling all over the world with his beautiful wife and daughters. He was a devoted 49er’s fan, loved fishing, camping. He was a proud Eagle Scout. He loved telling funny stories and making people laugh. Lee had built two houses with his wife Jean during their wonderful life together. He could fix and build anything. He loved to debate about politics and really any topic he was passionate about. He loved his church and was a member of Placer Heights Baptist Church. Lee has two surviving siblings, brother Roy and sister Phyllis. He was an Uncle to Derek, Cullen, Heather, Rob, Susiy, Pam and Heidi and a cousin to Shirley Vanderford. Lee had a wonderful life with his best friend and loving wife Jean. He is going to be missed by all of his family and friends.
ADDRESSES
Kiley and fire officials team up for town hall
News release
Congressman Kevin Kiley will host a Fire Prevention Town Hall open to all constituents in the 3rd District at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 31.
This tele-town hall will feature a group of state and federal fire experts from Cal Fire, U.S. Forest Service and FEMA to discuss e orts underway to contain the Park Fire and reduce the risk of other fires amidst di cult conditions.
These experts will also share best practices to protect yourself and your family. Kiley will also discuss action he is taking to protect communities against
future fires.
“These town halls are also an important opportunity for me to hear directly from you about the most important issues a ecting our district,”
Kiley said. To join the event call (877) 229-8493
Sewer spill at Fallen Leaf Lake
News release
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — At 12:19 a.m. Sunday, July 28, a broken valve at one of South Tahoe Public Utility District’s sewer pump stations resulted in 5-10 gallons of sewage spilling into Fallen Leaf Lake. The valve has been repaired, the site cleaned up and spill signs placed around the a ected area. At 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, an alarm went o , notifying district sta of higher-than-normal sewage levels at a pump station on Fallen Leaf Lake Road. Upon inspection, it was determined there was a broken valve and multiple crews were called in to assist. Due to the inability to isolate the valve and stop flow entering the station, at 12:19 a.m. approximately 40 gallons of sewage spilled out of the manhole next to 534 Fallen Leaf Lake Road and an estimated 5-10 gallons flowed into Fallen Leaf Lake.
“Our crew’s quick response limited the amount of sewage entering the lake to just a few gallons,” said Paul Hughes, STPUD general manager.
To contain the spill, the district used two vacuum trucks to suck out the manhole. With the spill under control, the district’s field operators made a confined space entry into the wet well to replace the broken valve. The impacted roadway and stairs were sprayed down and vacuumed up, and spill signs were placed around the site. Water quality samples were taken and results are pending.
The following information was taken from Placerville police reports:
July 7
10:18 a.m. Trespass reported on Broadway.
3:30 p.m. Vandalism reported on Tunnel Street.
July 8
8:41 a.m. Petty theft reported on Broadway.
10:37 a.m. Petty theft reported on Broadway.
11:35 a.m. Trespassing reported on
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a.m. to 3 p.m. (530) 622-1255 / Fax: (530) 622-7894
Broadway.
8:12 p.m. Vandalism reported on Smith Flat Road.
5:47 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 46-year-old man on suspicion of Grand theft and six counts of possession on Broadway. He was listed in custody in lieu of $104,000 bail.
10:15 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 38-year-old woman on suspicion of three counts of vandalism on Jacquier Road. She was listed in custody in lieu of $17,000 bail.
July 9
1:11 p.m. Petty theft reported on
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PUBLISHER
Richard B. Esposito (530) 344-5055 / resposito@mtdemocrat.net
Mimi Escabar Special Sections Editor 530-344-5070 / mescabar@mtdemocrat.net
Eric Jaramishian
Broadway.
8:17 p.m. Battery reported on Placerville Drive.
July 10
4:13 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 41-year-old man on suspicion of disorderly conduct and shoplifting on Placerville Drive. He was listed in custody.
July 11
1:13 a.m. Burglary reported on Placerville Drive.
July 12
8:53 a.m. Battery reported on Placerville Drive.
7:00 p.m. Trespass reported on Placerville Drive.
11:03 p.m. Petty theft reported on Placerville Drive.
4:27 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 39-year-old man on suspicion of possession of a controlled substance on Tunnel Street. He was listed in custody.
July 13
8:20 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 51-year-old woman on suspicion of a parole violation on Fair Lane. She was later released.
July
Bejarano-Carvajal
Manager (530) 344-5049 / lettyb@mtdemocrat.net
Courtesy photo
Congressman Kevin Kiley, left, speaks with a fire official about the dangers many Californians face due to wildfires.
Photo courtesy of South Tahoe Public Utility District Sewage spills down stairs that lead to Fallen Leaf Lake.
DON’T MISS
Mountain Democrat and Village Life
Missing man survived wilderness by eating berries, drinking river water
Katelyn Welsh Tahoe Daily Tribune
HOMEWOOD — Warren Elliott has reunited with his family after going missing for six days in the Tahoe wilderness.
Cheers and claps greeted the helicopter that touched down bringing Elliott to Homewood after he had been found.
He was seen hugging his family in the tattered and torn blue T-shirt he was last seen in. “Thank you, thank you,” he said to onlookers and rescuers, while wiping his eyes.
“It brought tears to our eyes to see the reunion,” Placer County sheriff’s Sgt. Sage Bourassa said, noting his family thought he
might not make it out alive.
Elliott went missing Friday, July 19, after leaving for a hike between 2 and 3 p.m. He was part of a group conducting trail rehab ahead of the Jeep Jamboree.
He told law enforcement officials he is familiar with the area, but explained he began walking in the wrong direction when he decided to head back to the area where they were camping in Rubicon Springs.
After days of personnel from 10 agencies from across the state searching, including the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, rallying between 50-100 searchers each
day, National Guard helicopters, dog teams and drone operators, Elliott was found.
Draft environmental document released for Town and Country Village
News release
The El Dorado County Planning and Building DepartmentPlanning Division, as the lead agency, has prepared a draft environmental impact report for the Town and Country Village El Dorado project. The DEIR has been prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act. The DEIR is available for public and agency review for a 45-day period ending Sept. 9. The purpose of the comment period is to consider the content of the DEIR and the potential environmental impacts that may result from project implementation, not the merits of the proposed project itself. Comments pertaining to the environmental impact analysis, criteria and thresholds, mitigation measures and alternatives presented in the DEIR will be considered by the county during preparation of the final EIR. The final EIR will include copies of the comments and the county’s responses to comments pertaining to the environmental review and DEIR.
El Dorado County will hold a meeting to receive comments regarding the content
of the DEIR and answer general questions regarding the environmental process. The meeting will be held in-person with a remote option via Zoom, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22, at the El Dorado County Planning and Building Department, 2850 Fairlane Court, Building C, Placerville, in the Planning Commission hearing room. The Zoom meeting link is accessible at: us06web.zoom.
us/j/88543474078.
The project site includes two areas: the project development area and the program study area.
The development area consists of the northernmost and southernmost 30.3 acres of the project site and would be developed with two hotels, retail services, two restaurants, a museum, an event center, associated
■ See DOCUMENT, page A9
that can help lower anxiety about your appointment. To keep your teeth and to keep them strong, be sure to keep your dental appointments for regular checkups. Remember that nothing is more economical than regular, professional visits to the dentist to help guard against any problems that may threaten your smile. If you have questions about caring for your teeth and gums and achieving optimum dental health, please feel free to call our full-service, state-of-theart office.
He had flagged the fisherman down at Hell Hole Reservoir Wednesday morning, July 24.
That’s about 9 miles as the crow flies from where he was last seen near Cadillac Hill, but officers suspect he probably walked close to 30 or 40 miles zigzagging. He had gone up a large mountain and back down the other side.
The fisherman used a satellite radio to notify the sheriff’s office of Elliott’s location. A California Highway Patrol helicopter extracted him and transported him to
the command post at Homewood Mountain Resort.
Bourassa said Elliott refused medical treatment and just wanted food and water at Homewood. That’s where he ate granola bars, fruit, grapes, a sandwich and drank water and juice — the most he had eaten in six days.
Having left for the hike with no food, Elliott found berries to eat and drank from a river. “We’re very impressed by him,” Bourassa said adding they were glad he didn’t give up. “That’s a lot of days to go
without food.”
Law enforcement recommends you stay in one place if you find yourself lost. This makes it easier for them to find you. In this case, Elliott had moved quickly and moved outside the search perimeter. It’s reported he kept moving because he didn’t think anyone was looking for him.
Bourassa said, “He wondered if he could get through but his mindset was to make it through.”
Editor’s note: Sierra Sun reporter Brenna O’Boyle contributed to this article.
items like a blanket, stuffy, or fidget toy
P.S. Preparing for a dental exam includes restocking any prescriptions or overthe-counter painkillers you may need afterward.
nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.”
Courtesy graphic
The Town and Country Village El Dorado project proposes a hotel and event center, among other amenities, at the site on Bass Lake Road near Highway 50.
Warren Elliott hugs his loved ones after being rescued on July 24. He spent several days in the wilderness after getting turned around while on a short hike near Rubicon Springs.
Photo courtesy of the Placer County Sheri ’s O ce
2530 Cameo Drive, Cameron Park (530) 676-9999, forestridgedentalgroup.com
Tourism Pays
El Dorado County Visitor Insights
• VisitElDorado.com had more than 207,000 users in the last year.
• More than 175,000 users were from inside the United States
• Germany is the top international market with 20,000+ users
• Top users by city are San Jose, Sacramento, Los Angeles and San Francisco.
• Top 6 pages in order Home page, Downtown Placerville, Planning a Trip To Apple Hill?, El Dorado County Farm Trails & Visitors Guide, 4 Fascinating Facts You May Not Know About California Gold Rush History, & Apple Hill
• April – Dec experience the highest visitation.
What does this mean? Interest in visitation to El Dorado County remains very high and the El Dorado County Visitors Authority is targeting the right audience. The goal for the coming year is to convert the Sacramento day trippers into overnight stays. The Visitors Authority will continue to focus on targeting the San Jose and San Francisco who tend to have
visitor spending.
El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services
Alert and Warning System
The El Dorado County Sheriff's Of ce of Emergency Services alert and warning system provides a number of ways in which the county may contact the community in the event of an emergency such as evacuations due to wild res, hazardous material spills, or urgent law enforcement operations. The El Dorado County Of ce of Emergency Services partnered with Cal OES to bring the El Dorado County Emergency Alerts noti cation service to residents and businesses by app, telephone, cell phone, text message, email, and social media when there is a threat to the health or safety of residents. To sign up for El Dorado County Emergency Alerts please go to https://ready.edso.org/
& Past EDC
County
of
Coming soon to El Dorado Hills! Quick Quack Car Wash is joining Sienna Ridge, the Safeway-anchored retail center at the southeast corner of Bass Lake Road and Sienna Ridge Road in El Dorado Hills. Roseville-based Quick Quack says it has more than 100 locations in Utah, Texas, California, Arizona and Colorado.
Giloff Photography
Adam Anderson, WealthGuard Advisors
Chamber President:; John Hidahl, El Dorado
Board
Supervisors; Mary Carrera, El Dorado Hills Chamber; Michael Holland, Store Leader; Phil Denna, Regional Leader; Sierra Ridge Shopping Center Manager; and Cathy Zuber, El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce.
New Bass Lake Road Park & Ride
Dorado County Chamber of Commerce for a Ribbon
What to Do When An Employee Wastes Too Much Time
Kathy Simpson
Your employees may show up to work every day, but do they put in a full day’s work? Chances are, they don’t.
Nearly 90% of employees say they waste time on the job every day. For most, it’s an hour or less, but more than one-fourth of employees admit to wasting two or more hours in the course of a workday. They may be checking their phones, sur ng the Internet, bad at time management, socializing online or with coworkers, taking longer-than-usual breaks or just goo ng off.
Are Restrictive Controls the Answer?
Concerned managers add up those wasted minutes and consider the cost to their business. They may give the wayward employee something — anything — to do, put restrictive controls in place to monitor Internet usage and block websites, or require employees to track their time. But small business expert Gene Marks recommends a different approach.
“Give your employees speci c deliverables, so your business runs the way you want it to; and leave it up to them to do what they have to do,” he says. “If people are showing up and getting their jobs done, it’s not a problem. If they aren’t, that’s a whole other discussion.”
A hands-off approach is especially vital for the growing millennial workforce, Marks says. These younger workers often want and expect more independence and mobility, and they thrive on it. Micromanaging anyone is likely to back re, but millennials in
particular will quickly nd it a good reason to move on.
A better solution is to lay the groundwork for a self-motivated team that gets the job done without your constant heedfulness. These tips can help.
Set Clear Goals and Expectations
Setting goals with clear expectations provides direction, motivation and a clear way to measure progress—for your business and your employees. Doing so improves teamwork and helps everyone understand the part they play in the total effort.
Be sure your employees clearly understand their job responsibilities and how you expect them to ful ll those responsibilities. Make a practice of meeting individually with each employee to establish goals that are realistic, measurable and timely, and periodically review their progress toward achieving those goals. Both you and your employee can track whether expectations have been met.
Know Your Employees
Employees who are wasting time at work are often bored, lack the incentive to work harder or are dissatis ed with their jobs. When you make a point of getting to know your employees and relating to them on a daily basis, you’ll be aware of these signs before they take a major toll on productivity, putting you in a better position to respond in a proactive way.
“Always be out there with your employees, checking things out with them, advising and counseling them,” says Marks. “Engage with them all the time.”
Provide immediate feedback for a
Thursday Night Market at Burke Junction
5 – 8 p.m. 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. Experience a free evening lled with local charm, featuring a variety of vendors offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, delicious food, and unique gifts. 530-614-0802. www.foodandfunmagazine.com/ about-5
Aug 02 Burgers and Karaoke
5 – 10 p.m. Placerville Elks Lodge, 3821 Quest Ct, Shingle Springs. Great burgers and singing to the delight of the Elks audience. secretary1712@gmail.com
August 2 & 6 Live Music at Smith Flat House
6 – 8 p.m. Smith Flat House, 2021 Smith Flat Road, Placerville. Join us in the Courtyard for live music featuring: multiple artists on different dates! 621-1003. www.smith athouse.com/events/ live-music-59 Placerville Speedway
August 3rd, 17th, 31st, 2024. 100 Placerville Dr, Placerville. www.placervillespeedway.com/schedule
Aug 03 Friends of the Library Book Sale 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 345 Fair Lane, Placerville. Fill up and take away a bag of books for only $7. There is a wide variety of ction, non- ction, vintage and children’s books. Puzzles, DVDs, sheet music, and more! Located in the garage behind the Placerville library. Aug 03 ASPIRE Adventure Scavenger Hunt 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
job well done and offer course corrections when necessary. Be available whenever employees want to meet with you. Help them meet their goals while also encouraging their autonomy. If they’re seeking more responsibility, offer new assignments that challenge their initiative, decision-making ability and creativity. You’ll have a more engaged staff because you’ll have a relationship that is built around trust with honest, ongoing communications, Marks says.
Offer Paid Time Off and Flexible Work Schedules
“Offer paid time off and exible schedules, so employees can take time off when they know they need it,” Marks says. “Policies for both paid time off and ex time should be as accommodating as possible, so the grownups who work for you can make decisions for themselves about what kind of downtime they need.”
Employees value exible working hours almost as much as salary and bene ts. Not all businesses can offer ex time, but if exible hours are an option for your business, both you and your employees will enjoy the bene ts. Studies have shown that extime leads to:
• Improved employee morale
• Increased engagement
• Reduced absenteeism and tardiness
When paired with clear goals and expectations, you can expect an increase in employee productivity, too. Also encourage your employees to use their vacation time. Vacations give employees a much needed rest from work demands—essential for renewed focus, energy and productivity.
Reward Productivity
Your employees will put forth more effort if they feel valued and appreciated. Positive feedback for a job well done can go a long way, especially when delivered publicly. Monetary rewards will motivate employees to work their hardest, but they’ll still value rewards like gift cards or extra time off. By praising the work of an entire team—with a plaque or an extended group lunch, for example—you can build a collective team spirit while motivating a larger part of your workforce to keep up the good work.
Terminate Chronic Problems
“Some people in this world get stuff done. They’re extremely productive,” Marks says. “There are others who can’t make a cup of coffee in under an hour. You’ve done all the right things—provided goals, offered guidance, given them to-do lists—but at some point you have to decide if you want to be their parent or not. At some point, you need to take a step back and ask how pro table this person is for your business.” You may decide it’s time to let an unproductive employee go. If you do, be sure to terminate your employee the right way to avoid potential legal complications later. At the very least, have a frank discussion with your employee informing them of their unsatisfactory performance, coach them on what they need to do to improve and allow a probation period for the improvements to materialize. Document everything and if performance doesn’t improve, follow up with a written notice before taking action.
Aug 04 Placerville Elks Lodge Bingo 1 - 4 p.m. First Sundays. A great day of Bingo and friends sup porting charities of the Elks. secretary1712@gmail.com
Aug 06 Pollock Pines National Night Out 5 - 7:30 p.m. At Forebay Park by the Little League eld and across the street from beautiful Forebay Lake. Jmharper2@ comcast.net
Aug 09 Pollock Pines/Camino Taco Night
530-350-5025 info@aspirekidseldorado.org Del no Farms presents Folk on the Farm Saturdays. Edio Vineyards, 3205 N. Canyon Rd., Camino. del nofarms.com/folkonthefarm Aug 03 Country Line Dancing and Lessons Presented by VFW Auxiliary, 6 - 9:30 p.m. Veterans Memorial Hall, 130 Placerville Dr., Placerville. $10/per person. Aug 3 & 10 Line Dancing Lessons at Smith Flat House 6:30 -9 p.m. Smith Flat House, 2021 Smith Flat Road, Placerville. $10 cover at the door. www.smith athouse.com/ events/line-dancing-23 Mimosa Sundays 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Come out and enjoy a picnic on our patio. Guests can also contact Ranch Girls Dream to order personal charcuterie platters that will be delivered to the vineyard to enjoy with their mimosas. cielosullaterra.com
4:30 - 7:00 p.m. Pollock Pines Camino Community Center, 2575 Sanders Dr. 530-647-8005, https://pollockpinesca.org/ Aug 10 Hot Summer Wheels at Burke Junction 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. Enjoy a morning lled with stunning cars, music, delicious food, and summer fun! 530-614-0802 www.foodandfunmagazine.com/copy-of-thursday-night-market
Aug 14 & 28 Wednesday Wine and Dine at Star eld Vineyards 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Star eld Vineyards, 2750 Jacquier Road, Placerville. www.star eldvineyards.com/Events/WednesdayNight-Wine--Dine Aug 15 Nonpro t Volunteer Fair El Dorado Community Foundation. 5 – 7 p.m. South Tahoe High, 1735 Lake Tahoe Blvd. Nonpro ts and Service Organizations are invited to sign up here to have a table at our rst annual Nonpro t Volunteer
OPINION
California Commentary
Gov. Newsom gaslights as he jockeys for the White House
In politics, gaslighting means brazenly denying what people can see with their own eyes and then refusing to admit the lie even when caught at it. Gov. Newsom, in his State of the State address, demonstrated that he has elevated gaslighting to an art form.
There were so many misrepresentations in his pre-recorded video speech that they were challenging to count.
The gaslighting started right out of the box in the opening sentence, quoting California Gov. Culbert Olson from 1939 as the world was about to be plunged into the second World War. Olson warned that California’s great task was to confront “the destruction of democracy.” Newsom warned, “The economic prosperity, health, safety and freedom that we enjoy are under assault.”
Who are you going to believe, him or your lying eyes?
Newsom said little or nothing about California’s electricity rates, insurance crisis or the gas tax going up again on July 1. Instead, he railed, “Republicans in Congress have chosen cynicism, partisan politics and the dangerous path of chaos instead of doing their job.”
Apparently, he thinks “their job” is to ignore the wishes of the people who elected them and follow California o the cli to the highest poverty rate in America when the cost of living is considered.
Newsom’s gaslighting about “democracy” is rich considering that he just led the e ort to convince the California Supreme Court to remove the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act, a qualified initiative, from the November ballot. The court was persuaded by the governor and the state’s legislative leaders to deprive California voters of the right to vote on an initiative put on the ballot by the signatures of over 1.4 million voters.
Nothing says “protecting democracy” quite like canceling an election.
Newsom’s next big whopper: “California is not a high-tax state. You pay a higher percentage in taxes if you’re poor in Texas than you do if you’re wealthy in California.”
If you spit out your co ee at Newsom’s cheerful assertion that “California is not a high-tax state,” you’re probably not alone. No other state comes close to California’s 13.3% top marginal income tax rate (14.4% when an extra payroll tax is included). Add to that the highest state sales tax rate in America at 7.25% even before all the local additional levies. In many cities, the combined sales tax rate is well above 10% with more tax-hike proposals in the works. And, of course, we have the highest gas tax, not to mention the highest gas prices in the nation due to hidden taxes from regulatory burdens. And even with Proposition 13 limiting increases in property taxes, we rank 19th out of 50 states in per capita property tax collections. California is, by any definition, a very high-tax state.
The Rural Life
Letters to the Editor
Sexism still exists
EDITOR:
As a parent, we want our daughters and sons to have equal opportunities for success in life. While it may be di cult to talk about sexism, the fact is that it exists. I raised two sons, but some of you have raised sons and daughters. Were they given the same opportunities to achieve and be successful?
Here is something to think about: 1-in-4 working women (25%) say they have earned less than a man who was doing the same job; 1-in-20 working men (5%) say they have earned less than a female peer, according to a 2017 survey by the Pew Research Center.
Do you think the situation in the workplace has improved since then? Perhaps you have your own story to tell.
Have you noticed attacks on women leaders heavily focus on looks, verbal style and personal life? Pay attention to social media and opinion pieces that don’t treat women candidates the same as men candidates. In some cases pundits and
politicians question a woman’s qualifications to lead. When you see descriptors like “emotional, angry or unqualified,” think twice about the motive of the speaker.
If we want to see our sons and daughters treated the same, we need to be aware of unfair attacks on women leaders and stop them from spreading. Let’s judge folks based on their values, goals and their performance, not on their sex.
MARY ELLIOTT-KLEMM
Somerset
Proud moment for Republicans
EDITOR:
For the past two decades, I’ve advocated for the Republican Party to focus on expanding our base by focusing on union workers. It seems like a no-brainer to me because union workers are pro made in America. They are against open borders and they exemplify American exceptionalism.
And for the first time a president of the
Considering tai chi? It really works. Take it from me
It was such a disappointment.
In spring 2017 I signed my husband and myself up for an exercise class hosted by our local community services district. We brought another couple, good friends, along with us, arriving on the appointed day wearing comfy clothes and ready to learn the low-impact, slow-motion discipline of tai chi.
JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER
It sounded so health-inducing, especially for people of a certain age (which does, I’m afraid, describe Hank and me). It boosts strength, balance, flexibility and gait, helping to guard against falls — a key benefit for older adults. And, in that it’s a sort of “moving meditation,” it also lowers stress and
anxiety, improves focus and decreases the risk of depression. It can even enhance sleep. One website touts it as “probably the most e ective exercise for your entire wellbeing.” Well, we certainly wanted some of that. Problem was, the instructor never showed up that day. A class member who had some experience with tai chi led the rest of us through a few motions, then we all left disappointed after learning the class was now canceled.
Tai chi originated as a martial art in China thousands of years ago. As practiced today for exercise or rehabilitation, it involves moving slowly and continuously through a series of circular motions requiring gentle bending, stretching and
If tai chi can be even better than vigorous exercise — the approach that has worked best for me — I certainly wanted to add it to my arsenal.
balancing. As you move, you focus on your breathing and the sensations in your body, a bit like mindfulness meditation.
After even a short session, you feel both relaxed and energized. Moreover, the benefits go deeper still. Tai chi has been shown to improve heart function and circulation to your extremities. A 2020 review of studies indicated tai chi was better at lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure than many other forms of exercise — and even some medications.
Plus, because the discipline requires full-body integration through a range of unusual movements, it stimulates the brain and can boost cognition. With all that to gain, I kept looking
for a class that would work logistically for us, but no luck. Eventually the idea wound up on the back burner of my mind, along with any number of projects I might get around to someday.
Then, earlier this year I learned of new findings, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, indicating that tai chi can be even better than more vigorous aerobic exercise for lowering blood pressure.
That got my attention, as managing blood pressure is an ongoing concern of mine. If tai chi can be even better than vigorous exercise — the approach that has worked best for me — I certainly wanted to add it to my
JON COUPAL
Coupal
Continued from A6
So how does Gov. Newsom respond to the truth in front of his eyes? How does he gaslight Californians with the claim that the poor in Texas pay higher taxes than the wealthy in California?
Newsom’s figures come from a study of state taxes by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. ITEP’s seventh edition of “Who Pays?” factors in “the portion of residential real estate taxes passed through to tenants.”
In other words, people in other states who don’t have Prop. 13 pay higher property taxes, directly or
Letters Continued from A6
Teamsters Union, Sean O’Brien, spoke at the Republican Convention. His speech exemplifies that the Republican Party is for the working person. Mr. O’Brien said the Biden administration hasn’t even returned his phone calls.
The Democrats have turned their backs on the American worker. Having the Teamsters’ support makes me proud to be a Republican.
KEN STEERS Cameron Park
Things to ponder
EDITOR:
Mr. Chapman, take a breath man. What were things like four years ago? The man you call a dictator was our president. Was he a dictator? Were we able to afford gas, food,
indirectly. Does Newsom credit Prop. 13? Of course not. He fights to take taxpayer protection measures off the ballot.
Whether addressing California’s tax burden, crime, homelessness, unemployment or the business climate, Newsom tells us to ignore our lying eyes. He’s right at home speaking on behalf of President Joe Biden, who assures us that the border is secure and inflation is under control.
The last bit of gaslighting from Newsom is a bit more nuanced. While supposedly meeting his
water, insurance? Was the border out of control? Were we being pushed into buying electric cars that we can’t even charge at times?
Come on, man. Guns don’t kill people’ the person pulling the trigger does. We need tougher laws and people need to be responsible for their actions. Bring on the death penalty. We are too soft on crime today and criminals only get their hands slapped and are back out on our streets. We need a leader and Donald is the one.
TERRI ELDERD Placerville
WANT TO SEE YOUR LETTER IN THE NEWSPAPER? Log on to MtDemocrat.com and share your opinion
responsibilities as governor of California, he gave a speech criticizing “red states” and the people they elect. And yet he had one foot out the door, flying to Atlanta to attend the presidential debate as Biden’s “surrogate.”
He appears to be posturing.
We’ll see. Smearing half the country as enemies of democracy is an unproven strategy in a national election.
Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.
Meyer Continued from A6
arsenal. Yet still I couldn’t find a convenient class. That’s when I had what can only be described as a “Duh!” moment. Where is it I so often turn for all sorts of information and how-to help? YouTube, of course! This handy platform has coached me on all sorts of exercise routines in the past; why not tai chi?
Happily, the platform didn’t disappoint. In a few moments of searching, I found several tai chi instructors with videos for learners at various levels, all available for free. I chose a teacher with a soothing voice, easy-to-follow instructions and great background music.
Now Hank and I follow this teacher’s 15-minute program every morning to start our day, in the comfort of our own home and in whatever clothes we happen to be wearing.
It’s great.
If you go searching at YouTube for your own tai chi video, keep looking until you find an instructor you like, with a routine that’s easy for you to follow. Fifteen or 20 minutes long is a good starting point, and if you find the background music pleasing, it’ll be easier for you to stick with the program every day.
As you’re first learning the movements, you may find it helpful — as I did — to slow the video down to 75% speed. (To do this, click on the little widget icon at the bottom of the video screen, then scroll to “Playback speed.”) Going slower in the beginning will help you learn the movements correctly, then you can return the video speed to normal.
And don’t be like I was at first; don’t gradually increase your own speed so that you wind up doing, say, four repetitions of a movement while your instructor is only doing three. That’s missing the point. The movements are meant to be slow; strive instead for fluidity, balance and mental focus. That will be challenging enough, believe me, and achieving those goals will gain you the full benefits of this ancient mind/body discipline.
Give it a go. And if you’d like to know which video is my current favorite (and it’s free, as most of them are), zip me an email and I’ll send you a link.
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) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com
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) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net
AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org
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 916-212-2465 for more information.
Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday, 12 noon at Steve’s Pizza, 3941 Park Dr., El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762
Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.
GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Cindy 805-540-8654. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information. 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)621-6304 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. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.
Forsberg
SPORTS
Carrick masterfully snags the Carnett Clash trophy
Gary Thomas
Placerville Speedway
An entertaining night of racing at the annual Carnett Clash was capped with Lincoln’s Tanner Carrick scoring his first Placerville Speedway win of the season on Saturday, July 27.
Sharing victory lane at the event were Anthony Slaney with the Mountain Democrat Ltd. Late Models, Nick Baldwin with the Red Hawk Casino Pure Stocks and Mike Miller with the Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks.
The 25-lap Thompsons Family of Dealerships
Winged 360 Sprint Car feature began with Tanner Carrick and youngster Austin Wood going at it for the lead.
The pair battled back and forth before Carrick assumed the point that he would never relinquish.
Although Carrick officially led for the duration, it did not come easy for the driver of the TC Guide Service No. 83T.
Placerville’s Shane Hopkins moved into second around lap 11 and began to hound the rear of Carrick, while having to contend with Auburn’s Andy Forsberg at the same time.
The trio raced close together for several laps in exciting fashion, but Carrick ran a near mistake free race up front. Carrick went on to cross the Ron Stahl checkered flag for his eighth career Placerville Speedway Winged 360 triumph, tying Kalib Henry and Glen Boune on the all-time win list. Hopkins came home in second and became the new
point leader by two markers ahead of third place finisher Forsberg. Modesto’s Tony Gomes and Elk Grove’s Bubba Decaires rounded out the top-five. Completing the top 10 were Luke Hayes, Chance Grasty, Izaak Sharp, Austin
Torgerson and Austin Wood. The $1,000 to win Mountain Democrat Ltd. Late Model feature saw Martinez driver Slaney continue his impressive campaign. Live Oak’s Matt Micheli led the early laps as things clicked off fast and
furious.
Slaney looked ultrafast though as he charged around the high side of the quarter mile bullring. The current Placerville Speedway point leader took over the lead on lap 10 and went on to hold command for the
extent, crossing the stripe for his fourth triumph of the season. Rod Oliver gave it a strong run in second, followed by Micheli, Dan Brown Jr. and Ryan McDaniel.
The Red Hawk Casino Pure Stocks also showcased a tremendous 25-lap finale, which kept fans on the edge of their seats. Multiple drivers battled it out for the $750 grand prize as part of the Carnett Clash. Sturgeon led the first couple laps, before Placerville’s Tyler Lightfoot charged to the point.
Lightfoot has put together a solid campaign in the Pure Stock and cut smooth laps up front, while contending with five-time track champion Nick Baldwin. Lapped traffic made things interesting up front and at one point, Baldwin split the difference as he battled with Lightfoot for the top spot. With 18 laps complete Baldwin snagged the lead and would go on to lead the final seven circuits for his 30th career Placerville Speedway triumph. Lightfoot came home in second, followed by Kevin Jinkerson, Sturgeon and Wayne Trimble in the top five.
Placerville’s Miller continued his mastery of the Mountain Democrat Mini Truck division on Saturday, leading all 20 laps for victory. Luke Costa had one of his best career runs in second, followed by Austin Struthers, Thomas Jensen and Paizlee Miller.
Placerville Speedway returns to action this coming Saturday, Aug. 3, with $8,500 to win at the Forni-Humphreys Classic.
Hike with a ranger this summer at Heavenly Mountain Resort
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — The sun is out, the snow has melted and now is the time to get out and enjoy summer on National Forest lands.
The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, along with partners at Heavenly Mountain Resort, invite the public to hike with a ranger every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the top of the Heavenly Gondola. The guided hikes last approximately one hour and will continue every weekend through Sept. 29, weather permitting. Hikes are moderate in terms of difficulty, closed-toe shoes and water are required for attendance, along with a ticket to ride the gondola. Remember to bring sunscreen hat, and sunglasses. No reservations are required. Attendance is on a first-
come, first-served basis. Participants should meet the rangers at the top of the gondola.
This Conservation Education program aims to provide an enjoyable opportunity to learn more about the Lake Tahoe Basin and its environment. Rangers cover a variety of natural history topics, which help promote a deeper understanding of our natural resources while increasing environmental literacy and developing land stewardship ethics. Programs are led by LTBMU rangers and Heavenly’s own Eco Rangers. This program is made possible through the LTBMU’s invaluable partnership in outdoor recreation with Heavenly Mountain Resort.
For more information contact Lannette Rangel at (530) 659-3003, (530) 543-2730 or lannette.rangel@ usda.gov.
Photo courtesy of PJ Petersen
Tanner Carrick celebrates his first Placerville Speedway win.
July 17
8:31 a.m.
10:20 a.m.
1:55 p.m. Drunk in
9:45 p.m.
July 19
2:35 a.m. Officers booked into jail a a 22-year-old man on suspicion of DUI on Forni Road. He was later released.
12:06 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 35-year-old woman on suspicion of driving with a suspended license on Placerville Drive, failure to appear and two counts of probation violation. She was released on $20,000 bail.
8:46 p.m. Petty theft reported on Broadway.
9:32 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 37-year-old man on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, threatening a crime with intent to terrorize and obstruction on Broadway. He was listed in custody in lieu of $118,000 bail.
Organization of the Year (Region 6) recognition from the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation — one of seven nationwide to earn the honor. All campaigns/coordinators honored by the foundation will be recognized at the annual training conference, Sept. 12-15 in St. Louis, Mo.
“It’s very exciting for us,” Walls told the Mountain Democrat. “We’re going to be a model for campaigns going forward.”
Sitting beside California Highway Patrol officer Andrew Brown, who has partnered with Walls for many years via the CHiPs for Kids program, the energetic coordinator shared the impressive 2023 campaign numbers — 10,900 items distributed to 2,887 children, 10 local nonprofits and two Title 1 schools. Local businesses and organizations set up 268 Toys for Tots donation boxes throughout El Dorado County’s west slope and more than 200 volunteers pitched in, driving donation routes to collect toys and drop off empty boxes, organizing donations at the warehouse and distributing items to families in need.
Volunteers moved 500 families through the drive-thru pickup event in 12 hours, Brown added, with a wait time of about 5 minutes.
“We’ve really honed our campaign
Continued from A1
Cemetery
• Hangtown Village Square
• Placerville Shakespeare Club
• Exhilaration Station.
• Gold Country Health Center and Senior Living Community
A list of registered block parties can be found at cityofplacerville.org/ national-night-out-1. Celebrations will take place 6-8 p.m.
Divide residents are invited to join in the festivities at Garden Valley Park 5-8 p.m. The park provides shade and grass for the community as they meet first responders and enjoy free food, drinks and snow cones. Activities for kids including a splash pad and the chance to look at a fire truck and sheriff’s vehicles will be available. This event is hosted by the Georgetown Divide Recreation District, the Divide Chamber of Commerce and the Divide Rotary Club.
The Camino Community Church Park will host NNO celebrations 5:30-8 p.m. for Camino residents and friends. Attendees are encouraged
Document Continued from A3
parking, 56 residential cottages for employee housing and an additional 56 residential cottages that may be rented on a daily or extended stay basis.
The study area consists of the central and easternmost 30.2 acres of the project site, and may include future development of additional hotels, medical facilities, senior housing, townhomes and cottages and other uses allowed by the proposed zoning districts. Development within the program study area of the project site is not currently proposed; however, a maximum buildout scenario is included for program level analysis in the EIR. Vehicle access to the project site would be provided by private roads connecting to Bass Lake Road to the west and to Country Club Drive to the north. In addition to on-site utility improvements, full buildout of the proposed project would require installation of off-site water, sewer and natural gas utilities within Bass Lake Road, other nearby roads and with respect to the sewer line, generally to the west along Old Bass Lake Road/Lincoln Highway toward Carson Creek.
A subsequent scheduled public hearing will be conducted on the project upon completion of the final EIR when the county considers action
2:37 a.m. Officers booked into jail a 35-year-old man on suspicion of DUI on Cedar Ravine Road. He was later released.
2:40 a.m. Officers booked into jail a 46-year-old woman on suspicion of DUI on Cedar Ravine Road. She was later released.
11:07 a.m. Vandalism reported on Country Club Drive.
July 20
6:33 p.m. Trespassing reported on Wiltse Road.
9:56 p.m. Indecent exposure reported on Cedar Ravine Road.
She credits Brown, her stalwart volunteers (including her family), community partners, local agencies and residents who year after year inspire with their generosity.
“Our community takes good care of us,” Walls said. “We’re extremely lucky.”
Find all the dates and details — including how to volunteer, donate or sign up — online at placerville-ca. toysfortots.org. Award Continued from A1 Crime Log Continued from A2
over the past 10 years,” said Walls, who has coordinated this effort for 29 years.
COMICS
“It’s just a match made in heaven,” Brown added. “It’s great knowing every toy we get is going to kids in the community.”
Toys for Tots is not just a Christmas campaign. Catastrophic events like fires and extreme weather launch volunteers into action. They’re seen at emergency shelters distributing blankets, stuffed animals and much more.
It may be summer but the Christmas 2024 campaign is in full swing with Walls and Brown, along with many others, excited about another year of giving back.
“We know many families need this,” Brown said. “It can be life-changing for kids.”
to bring their own picnic chairs and picnic dinners; barbecues and charcoal will be provided and hot dogs will be available for free for everyone. Hickory Wind will provide some tunes as El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Cal Fire firefighters meet the community.
Pollock Pines’s Pinewood Elementary School will host a NNO event 4-7 p.m. Classic cars are set to be present as locals meet one another and some of the first responders that protect their community.
Last but not least, the El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host its own NNO event 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug 9., at Community Park. Brought together in partnership with EDSO and the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, NNO is set to be a spectacular evening. On top of activities for kids, free music and free food, there will be K9 and bomb squad demonstrations. EDH Fire Department officials will also host CPR demonstrations and training.
on the project. The county must certify the final EIR prior to project approval. The DEIR and supporting information may be reviewed and/or obtained at the following locations:
• Planning and Building Department, 2850 Fairlane Court, Building C, Placerville
• El Dorado County Library, 345 Fair Lane, Placerville
• El Dorado Hills Library, 7455 Silva Valley Parkway
• Cameron Park Library, 2500 Country Club Drive
All written public and agency
comments must be received by 5 p.m. on Sept. 9 and should be directed to: El Dorado County Planning and Building Department-Planning Division, Attention: Ande Flower, 2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville, CA 95667.
Please include the name of the contact person of your agency, if applicable. Comments may also be submitted in person or via email to TownAndCountryElDorado@ edcgov.us. Comments submitted via email must either be included in the body text of the message or as an attachment in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ll be in a situation where many are trying to do the same thing but some are drawing a lot more attention to themselves over it. You can take this as a call for help, an invitation or a red flag. It’s probably all of the above.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). It is possible to be offended where no disrespect was meant, but whether they meant it or not might be irrelevant. People could be better educated as to the treatment you’d prefer.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You’ve been known to strategically accept blame that wasn’t yours. Accepting blame can sometimes make a problem quickly go away. Accepting credit is scarier. It’s usually the start of something unknown.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). Is identity a skill? Attaching and detaching from ideas certainly is. There are elements of your persona you’re ready to sharpen or lose, and the decisions and mechanisms you employ to do this require skill indeed.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). If all goes to plan, no one knows to dress up for their own surprise party. Here’s a heads-up -- not for a formal party, but life is going to surprise you, and you’ll love it more if you’re dressed for the pictures. It will enter your realm with your permission. If you desire the excitement, it’s coming for you.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Attend events, classes and the like and you’ll magnetically draw interesting people to you. Be proactive, too, though, because otherwise you won’t make time to talk with the ones who seem interesting to you. New friends and partners of various kinds are entering your realm.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Even when relationships are going very well, it is still possible to miscommunicate or get overly excited and say or do something suboptimal. But compassionate people don’t mind, or they forgive. You’re such a person. Direct compassion to yourself, too.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You’re a passionate person.
n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
n RUBES by Leigh Rubin
n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
SUDOKU
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
July 31
Vitalant will host a Shingle Springs community blood drive 1:30-4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 3821 Quest Court. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code
SMFM551 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.
Snowline Health
Dementia Connection
hosts Living Well with Dementia – Dementia Self Care: Strategies to Address Communication Challenges, 5:30-7 p.m. at 1100 Marshall Way, Upstairs Room D, Placerville. This training is for people experiencing cognitive impairments or early stages of dementia and welcomes these individuals along with any caregivers or people providing support for them. The class will identify ways for individuals, couples and families to strengthen their dementiarelated communication skills and create a strong foundation from which to address the stresses and symptoms of dementia. The possible challenges people with dementia have with communication will be addressed along with using di erent verbal and nonverbal communication methods to reduce stress and frustration.
The Paul Thorn Band will perform at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Valhalla Tahoe presents the Loud as Folk Songwriters Showcase. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Aug. 1
If you want to nd great bargains, stop by the St. Patrick Church Ladies Society annual Rummage Sale, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 1 & 2 and 9 a.m. to noon Aug.
3. The sale takes place at the church hall, 3109 Sacramento St. in Placerville. For more information call (530) 6220373.
El Dorado Hills Town Center will be rockin’ with a free concert, 7-9 p.m., featuring Maroon Vibes. Visit EDHTownCenter.com for all the details.
Johnny Mojo & Friends celebrating Jerry Garcia’s birthday will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Check out Majka at the Crocker 5-7:30 p.m. Elegant small bites, custom pastas and homemade desserts combine fresh, local ingredients in delightful, often surprising ways for a delectable three-course tasting menu that changes each month. For tickets and more information visit crockerart.org.
Aug. 2
Walking the Dawg will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.
Enjoy a Friday Night Out at the Rescue Community Center from 5-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter.com.
Michael Rock will perform at Smith Flat House in Placerville, 6-8 p.m. For more
Cheers to celebrating an Italian classic
News release
Step into elegance and exclusivity at the 11th annual Barbera Festival in Amador Wine Country, 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3, at the Terra d’Oro barrel room, 20680 Shenandoah School Road in Plymouth. This is a limitedaccess event, where every guest is treated like a VIP in an intimate and premium atmosphere, ensuring an afternoon of exceptional indulgence.
Savor barbera wines from more than 40 renowned wineries across California and Italy, showcasing this classic Italian varietal. Enjoy a culinary journey with gourmet food and appetizers from O the Vine Catering, desserts by Part Rust and live music from local artist Austin Payne. Capture memories in the 360-photo booth, be mesmerized by the Sacred Fire Dance light show and relax in the lounge mezzanine with its stunning aerial view.
Culinary offerings
paella and delectable pasta, tantalizing the taste buds.
The attentive servers will circulate with a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres. Savor succulent lamb and beef skewers, grilled to perfection on-site, and delicious bruschetta on crostini, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
For a sweet yet savory treat, enjoy flatbread topped with creamy brie, grilled peaches, fresh basil, candied pecans and a drizzle of hot honey.
Barbera is a leading wine grape of Italy (second in planted acreage), particularly in the Piedmont region where it is thought to have originated. John Doyle rst imported the grape into California and produced his rst Barbera vintage in 1884 from vines planted in Cupertino.
Dessert bar
— University of California, The Garden Web
After stepping through the doors, guests will be greeted by an impressive charcuterie and cheese display featuring artisanal cheeses and cured meats. Watch as Dave expertly prepares sizzling
Start with decadent brownies, rich and fudgy with a perfectly crisp top and a gooey, chocolatey center. Savor a classic favorite with the salted chocolate chip cookies, caramel to ee cookies, big Bisco cookies and double chocolate chip cookies.
Each dessert is crafted by Part Rust Ranch, ensuring the highest quality and most satisfying flavors. These sweet treats are the perfect way to end the evening at the Barbera Festival.
360-photo booth
Step into the fun with the 360-photo booth. Capture every angle of your special moments
Find bargains and treasures at church rummage sale
St. Patrick Ladies’ Society News release
The members of the St. Patrick Ladies’ Society host the 86th anniversary Rummage Sale set for Thursday, Aug. 1, through Saturday, Aug. 3.
Chairperson for the St. Patrick Ladies’ Society Rummage Sale is Karen Jones, who has made the event her labor of love for more than 20 years. The Ladies Society members look forward to working the Rummage Sale every year because they can donate items to a good cause and they spend hours together, getting to know each other and new members. It isn’t any work at all and it is a calling for some. They may devote time sorting and displaying jewelry or arranging the kids section, clothing or holiday displays. There
Volunteer at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
California State Parks News release
Join the Volunteer In Parks Program at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma, the site of Sutter’s Mill and the gold discovery that shaped the future of California. The next volunteer training class begins on Tuesday, Aug. 6. This is a nine-session training program presented in a combination of virtual and in-person classes. New volunteers will need to attend all training dates to complete the volunteer training program.
• Tuesday, Aug. 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Zoom
• Thursday, Aug. 8, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Zoom
• Saturday, Aug. 10, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. In person
• Tuesday, Aug. 13, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Zoom
• Thursday, Aug. 15, 5:30-7:30 pm Zoom
• Saturday, Aug. 17, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. In person
• Tuesday, Aug. 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Zoom
• Thursday, Aug. 22, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Zoom
• Saturday, Aug. 24, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. In person
The volunteer training program provides information about the
park, its history and its historical buildings, as well as training on park services, historical interpretation, leading tours and school programs, and historical clothing. Volunteers are asked to commit to volunteering a
minimum of eight hours per month. There are many opportunities to volunteer at the park.
• Leading educational programs for school groups.
• Leading tours, talks and gold panning
• Living history demonstrations
• Interpreting historical buildings including the blacksmith shop
• Working in the mercantile inside the museum
• Greeting visitors at the visitor center/ museum
• Performing park maintenance/ landscaping
• Promoting the park and its events
• Performing research in the library
The tradition of volunteering in California State Parks dates back to 1864. Today, the events and programs at many state parks depend on volunteers to survive. Become one of the 40,000 volunteers who donate more than one million hours annually to California’s state parks. For more information visit parks. ca.gov/MarshallGold or contact Jerrie Beard at (530) 295-2174 or jerrie. beard@parks.ca.gov.
Mountain Democrat le photo
Volunteers fill many roles at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma, including giving gold panning lessons. The next training session for volunteers begins Aug. 6.
Democrat le photo by Shelly Thorene
St. Patrick Ladies’ Society Rummage Sale returns this week with everything from home décor to children’s toys.
DENTAL Insurance
CELEBRATING SUCCESS Marshall School of Medical Assisting honors its first graduating cohort
Whitney Burke Marshall
Community members from Marshall Medical, the El Dorado County Office of Education and the greater El Dorado County region joined together July 23 to celebrate the inaugural graduating cohort of the Marshall School of Medical Assisting.
The first graduating cohort consisted of eight students, marking a significant milestone since the school’s opening in January 2024.
Special awards were presented for academic excellence to Laura Nolan and clinical excellence to Rebecca Chavez.
The ceremony featured a moving address by graduate Jasmine Aguirre, along with keynote speeches delivered by county Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala and Jonathan Russell, chief ambulatory officer of Marshall Medical.
In his speech, Manansala underscored the impact their career choices will have both on their own lives and the local community.
“In so many ways, you are the backbone of healthcare. You should feel an immense sense of pride for completing this program. Whether you pursued this new career path for personal growth, to support your loved ones, or to enrich your local community, your dedication will positively impact countless lives in the years ahead,” he said.
During their rigorous instruction, students in the Marshall School of Medical Assisting learn about patient care, medical terminology and technology,
News release
patient records and documentation, safe handling and administration of medication, lab procedures, medical ethics, law and much more. The robust program also features guest speakers from various medical departments to offer students different perspectives and experiences in medicine.
The school’s hands-on teaching approach helps to equip students with the proper skills to confidently enter and sustain a lasting and rewarding career in the medical field by qualifying for an entry-level position as a medical assistant in a hospital, clinic, or physician’s office. Moving forward, the graduates can now complete the California Certified Medical
Assistant exam. Two graduates have already passed the medical exam and found job placement, while the remainder have pending test dates and have applied for open positions within El Dorado County. Beyond graduation, support from EDCOE staff is available to assist with securing employment.
Teacher Angie Land acknowledged the deep connections the students formed throughout their time in the program. “The bond you’ve forged within this program will be one that you always carry with you in your healthcare journey,” she shared.
The Marshall School of Medical Assisting was created in partnership with EDCOE and is
n See GRADS, page B6
• Participate in fun and hilarious activities
• Compete with other teams for exciting prizes
• Support ASPIREKids and its mission
ASPIREKids hosts its first fundraiser, the ASPIRE Adventure Scavenger Hunt for Hope, a unique and exciting event aimed at supporting a fantastic cause. This family-friendly event promises an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, laughter and community spirit.
The event begins at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, at City Park, Benham Park on Benham Street in Placerville.
The scavenger hunt will feature a series of engaging and hilarious activities, ensuring everyone has a great time. Participants will create cherished memories as they work together to solve clues and complete challenges.
Event highlights:
• Discover historical treasures
• Explore local businesses
ASPIREKids is a local nonprofit committed to removing barriers and building resilience in youth who have experienced trauma or live in low-income circumstances in El Dorado County. Working with school administrators, social workers and therapists, the organization’s team strives to ensure that all youth in El Dorado County have access to the normal childhood experiences, including music, art, sports, camps, school activities, clothes, Christmas gifts and more. The group collaborates with our community partners to make a positive impact in the lives of local youth. For more information visit aspirekidseldorado. org.
Courtesy photos
Marshall School of Medical Assisting’s first graduating cohort: left to right, Danielle Van Newkirk, Laura Nolan, Jacqueline Ortega, Danielle Castellanos, Rebecca Chavez, Jasmine Aguirre, Emma Warden, and Katherine (Renee) Nygren.
A Marshall School of Medical Assisting graduate, above, offers a rose to a loved one as thanks for their support during the program. Below, graduate Jasmine Aguirre receives her certificate from El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala.
GROW FOR IT!
Sun exposure
Iam sitting here, pen in hand, writing an article about sun exposure and our community is in Day 10 of a heatwave. Yes, this could be an easy article to write because too much sun is on everyone’s mind. I am going to tackle the effects of too much sun on plants, the possible prevention steps for plants and for us as insatiable gardeners. Plants do need sunlight to grow; it is part of the equation of sun, water and soil. The amount of sunlight can be based on the genus of the plant. Cactus will tolerate more sun than a more delicate hydrangea, which I secretly call “hydrate me.”
When deciding where to plant, read the tags or labels placed with the plant. Full sun plants need at least six hours of direct sun daily. Part sun plants thrive with between three and six hours of direct sun per day. Part shade plants require between three and six hours of sun per day but need protection from intense mid-day sun. Full shade plants require less than three hours of direct sun per day. Also on the plant tag is the USDA Hardiness Zones in which the plant can thrive. You can find your Hardiness Zone at planthardiness.ars.usda.
gov. Just enter your ZIP code.
Periodically, look at your garden from sunup to sundown to see how the sun travels over it. Are there trees, walls or gazebos that may be casting shadows on your garden? Know which parts of your garden get only morning sun and those areas in full sun during the hottest part of the day. The danger to plants from too much sun has various symptoms, including sunburn, sun scald, wilting, leaf scorch, leaf tip burn and bud drop. All these issues can be caused by excessive heat and/ or lack of sufficient water. To use water wisely, water in the very early morning or after the sun goes down for the maximum
benefit and to lower the loss of moisture from evaporation. Shade cloths are effective tools to protect your plants from the toobright sun and keep the surrounding soil cooler, helping it to better retain moisture. Consider the type of mulch you use because inorganic mulches such as stone and gravel retain heat more than organic mulches such as bark and chips. Most importantly, take care of yourself in the heat. Wear a wide brim hat and one that has a flap to cover your neck. Use a broadspectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect you from sun exposure. Several clothing manufacturers make light weight UV clothing that repels the sun’s harmful effects. Stay hydrated
and garden only in the early morning or early evening.
We will get through this heatwave, and by the time this goes to print, perhaps we’ll be praising the 90s!
The Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open 9 a.m. to noon Fridays and Saturdays. Check the website for further information at ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_ Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_ Garden.
Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. Find the class schedule at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/ Public_Education_Cla sses/?calendar=yes &g=56698 and recorded classes on many gardening topics at mgeldorado.ucanr. edu/Public_Education/ Classes.
Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website, mgeldorado.ucanr. edu, or leave a message on the office telephone at (530) 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.
Senior coupon booklets available for area markets
served basis, as follows:
The El Dorado County Area Agency on Aging has a limited supply of Farmers Market Coupon Booklets for El Dorado County older adults who meet age and income guidelines. Each booklet has five checks redeemable for $10 each to be used at Certified Farmers Markets in California to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, cut herbs and raw unprocessed honey.
“These coupon booklets offer lowincome seniors access to locally sourced, highly nutritious fresh produce and honey in a wonderful community-based farmers market environment,” said Jordan Brushia, program coordinator with El Dorado County Senior Services.
To be eligible, individuals must be at least 60 years of age, live in El Dorado County and meet income guidelines: one-person household with an annual income less than $27,861 or $2,322 monthly; or twoperson household with no more than $37,184 annually or $3,152 monthly.
Each eligible senior may receive one booklet. The booklets will be distributed on a first-come, first-
• Wednesday, Aug. 7, 8 a.m. to noon in the Burke Junction parking area, Coach Lane and Strolling Hills Road in Cameron Park.
• Saturday, Aug. 10, 9 a.m. to noon at the Garden Valley Park, located at Garden Valley Road and Marshall Road.
• Tuesday, Aug. 13, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the America Legion Hall parking area, located at 2732 Lake Tahoe Blvd. in South Lake Tahoe.
• Saturday, Aug. 17, 8 a.m. to noon in the Regal Cinema parking area at 337 Placerville Drive in Placerville.
The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Services Agency and California Department of Food and Agriculture. The program is implemented locally by Area Agencies on Aging to distribute the farmers market booklets. For more information about this or other local programs for older adults 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.
Pixabay
Diane Lehr UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County
Carla Hass El Dorado County Chief Administrative Office
...to our NEWSPAPERS IN EDUCATION sponsors
...And to our generous subscribers who donate their vacation credits to the fund.
HFW Enterprises, LLC
49’er Bail Bond
Aborn Powers Property Management
Adco Driveline and Custom Exhaust
Adept – Med International, Inc.
ARCO AM/PM
Artistic Beads & Studio CAPTRUST
Carbon Copy
Conforti Plumbing
Edwards A-1 Appliance
El Dorado County Fair
El Dorado Irrigation District
EN2 Resources, Inc.
Frank’s Body Shop, Inc.
Lake Oaks Mobile Home Community
Mountain Roofing Systems
Sierra Valley Enterprises, LLC
The Greenhouse Café
Triangle Well Drilling
Western Sign Co., 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
Discover just how funny retirement can really be
Julie Anchor Main Street Theatre Works
JACKSON — Ever wonder what home life would be like for Betty and Wilma if Fred and Barney retired?
That’s the flavor of Main Street Theatre Works’ second summer show, “A Red Plaid Shirt” by Canadian playwright Michael G. Wilmot, directed by Paul Fearn, opening Aug. 2. Newly retired friends Marty and Fred (Jim Last and Frank Swaringen) are handling retirement in very different ways. Marty wants to explore the open road on a new Harley and Fred is focused on his health by inventing a variety of new ailments.
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information call (530) 621-1003.
Coming from Las Vegas, Bee Gees Gold is returning to the Harris Center by popular demand at 7:30 p.m.
John Acosta has performed in Bee Gees tributes all over the world. His portrayal of lead singer Barry Gibb is done with a zest for detail like no other. From the look to the falsetto, you will close your eyes and say its Barry! For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 6086888.
Emo Prom Night comes to The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. Doors at 5 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
60s Summer of Love will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival – Young Shakespeare Program will take place at Valhalla Tahoe from 10-11:30 a.m. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Aug. 3
The Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 512 invites the public to its famous pancake breakfast, 8-11 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month, through October, at the Placerville Airport, 3501 Airport Road. Enjoy airplanes on display, old cars, old friends and more. Proceeds go to the Sunny Atkin Scholarship Fund for students of aeronautical related studies.
The Stage at Burke Junction presents “Proof,” a play by David Auburn. Starting Saturday, Aug. 3, the show will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 1. Shows start at 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, with 2 p.m. shows on Saturday and Sunday. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.
The Harris Center will host Ho’ike 2024, the 25th anniversary of the presentation of traditional Hawaiian talent, artistic expression and cultural performances. In Hawaiian culture, hō’ike refers to events or gatherings where the community comes together to share their skills, arts, and traditions. Showtimes are noon and 6 p.m. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
Smokey Red will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.
With a little “redirection” from their wives (Lisa Derthick and Erin Renfree), the guys come up with a creative solution that helps them flex their muscles, work with sharp-pointy objects and bring excitement back into their lives. Laugh your way through their journey of life after retirement. “A Red Plaid Shirt” runs every weekend in August, with shows on Fridays and Saturdays, Aug. 2-31 at the Kennedy Mine Amphitheater, 1127 N. Main St. in Jackson. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Patrons are encouraged to come early with picnic dinners, beverages of choice, camp chairs and jackets. Get tickets at mstw.org or purchase at the gate, cash or check only.
Grateful Jazz — A Celebration of Jerry Garcia will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 5 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Valhalla Tahoe will host the Gatsby Tea and Fashion Show starting at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Anaïs Reno will perform at 7 p.m. at Valhalla Tahoe. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Aug. 5
Snowline Health Dementia Connection hosts Living Well with Dementia Addressing Challenging Symptoms: Supporting Mood and Sexuality Complications, 1-3 p.m. at the Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane in El Dorado Hills. This free, in person and online class is for caregivers. Caring for someone with dementia can be incredibly rewarding, but it also presents unique challenges. While memory loss is often the first thing that comes to mind, emotional and behavioral changes like anxiety, agitation and sexual disinhibition can be equally distressing for both the person with dementia and their loved ones. In this class we will explore options for addressing these symptoms.
Aug. 6
Powell’s Steamer Company and Pub, 425 Main St., presents Eric Hill and Jonny Mojo for Taco Tuesday on the first and third Tuesdays of the month from 4-7 p.m. Stop by for some good food and good tunes. For more information call (530) 626-1091.
National Night Out brings together residents, first responders and law enforcement officials with community and block party locations across the county.
National Alliance on Mental Illness El Dorado County offers free, in-person family support groups monthly: 6-7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month in Placerville and 5:30-7:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month in South Lake Tahoe. For more information visit namieldoradocounty.org.
John Spivack will perform at Smith Flat House in Placerville, 6-8 p.m. For more information call (530) 621-1003.
Broadway At Music Circus presents “Waitress” at the UC David Health pavilion in Sacramento Aug. 6-11. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.
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.
Please show these sponsors your support for the program by patronizing their businesses.
Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery hosts Live in the Vines with music by Moonshine Crazy, 5:30-9 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com/ upcoming-events.
Delfino Farms in Camino presents Folk on the Farm, 6-10 p.m., with Pokey Lafarge. For more information visit delfinofarms.com/folkonthefarm.
Phantom Spires will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.
Power Play will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
Shane Dwight will perform at 7 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Backstory: Portland Vase Mania (via YouTube Live) is at the Crocker Art Museum form noon to 1 p.m. Go behind the scenes of the exhibition The Portland Vase: Mania and Muse with this virtual panel discussion featuring speakers across three continents. For tickets and more information visit crockerart.org.
Aug. 4
El Dorado Western Railroad offers excursion rides with trains running on the hour, 10 a.m. through 1 p.m., weather permitting, at the El Dorado Station. For more information visit facebook.com/ ElDoradoWesternRailroad.
Love Live Laugh Floral Arranging at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 1 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
RxEMEDY will perform at 3 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.
The Tahoe Improv Players will perform at 7:30 p.m. at Valhalla Tahoe. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Aug. 9
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host its National Night Out celebration from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Dorothy Ellenburg Community Park. There will be free barbecue, music and children’s activities, along with presentations by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office K-9 and Bomb Disposal teams.
Aug. 10
The El Dorado County Historical Society invites all members to the next installment in the 2024 Historical Field Speaker Series: California Impressionist Art in El Dorado County & Beyond - Tilden Daken, 4:15-5:45 p.m. at the Art on the Divide Gallery, 6295 Main St. in Georgetown. The Kings Beach Art Tour features 29 artists who will open their studios to display and sell their art in a fun and interactive way, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 10 & 11. For more information visit northtahoebusiness.org/kings-beach-art-tour.
Aug. 14
Master Gardeners and Master Food Preservers combine for All About Berries, 9 a.m. to noon at the Cameron Park Community Center, 2502 Country Club Drive. Master Gardeners will discuss how to grow and care for common berry plants with an introduction to less known varieties and review common diseases and pests in our area. Master Food Preservers will show you how to preserve berries in fun and creative ways and share what to do with your preserved foods once you have them in your pantry. Register at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=43101.
Aug. 24
Join El Dorado County Ag in the Classroom presents 20 Mile Taste at
Orchards, 4-7 p.m. Once again, John Sanders
of Old Town Grill will contribute his culinary creations for this fun event. Enjoy dessert and wine pairings plus hot apple cider donuts while listening to live music performed by Red Dirt Ruckus. Visitors will have the option to drive thru/take out the meal or to stay and picnic in the orchard. For tickets visit agintheclass-edc.org/events.
Now The Master Gardener public office is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon at 311 Fair Lane, Placerville. Have a gardening
Rummage Continued from B1
are always lots of linens and housewares to put on display and even a collectible section.
“It is a time for church members to bond more closely with others, work very hard and to just have fun. Most volunteers are retired women whose families have left home, giving them a freer time in life,” said Jones. All proceeds go back to the church and the local economy. The money has been used to help defray the cost of maintaining the church and other buildings. Money is also used for college scholarships, youth ministry
question or problem? Come in and chat. Bring a cutting or insect in a baggie or a picture. Can’t come in person? Call (530) 621-5512 and leave a voicemail or email mgeldorado@ucanr.edu.
The purpose of the Widowed Persons Club is to provide a support group for widowed men and women of all ages and provide social activities through which they have an opportunity to make new friends and find a new direction in their lives.
Regular breakfasts are held every Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. at Denny’s in Placerville. For those interested in joining or reservations don’t
and various projects that come up every. The money raised during the sale is important but each year the rummage sale donates items collected to meet many needs in the community. The Church Clothes Closet, Upper Room Dining Hall, Mother Teresa Maternity Home, veterans organizations, MORE, Marshall Hospital and church youth programs all have been recipients of donated items. If you like to shop, volunteers keep putting out more items that don’t fit on the tables or are buried the first day of the sale. The best way to help the planet
hesitate to get in touch with Glenda at (530) 295-8374 or Nancy at (530) 919-8276.
El Dorado County Certified Farmers’ Markets offer fresh fruit and vegetables and much more: Burke Junction in Cameron Park, 8 a.m. to noon Wednesdays; Placerville Cinema, 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays; and El Dorado Hills Town Center, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays. For more information visit eldoradofarmersmarket.com.
Gold Bug Park & Mine in Placerville is open seven days a week, weather permitting,
is to reduce what we send to a landfill and if an item is not in good shape, we don’t put it out. We look forward to seeing new shoppers as well as “regulars” who return year after year. Find great bargains at the Rummage Sale which runs 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Aug, 1 & 2, and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 3. Saturday is $2 to fill a brown grocery bag with goodies. Large items are half price with some exclusions. Sale takes place at the church hall at 3109 Sacramento St., Placerville. For more information call (530) 622-0373.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit goldbugpark. org.
Marshall Hospital Auxiliary is looking for volunteers. Help people and make new friends. Interviews are held monthly. For more information call Norma at (530) 676-1844 or email grizzyq98@gmail.com.
B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents “Blood of the Lamb” at The Sofia in Sacramento through Aug. 4. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
Olde Coloma Theatre presents “The Whirling Dervish of Coloma” or “Ladies, Gentlemen and Others?” through Aug. 11. For tickets and more information visit oldecolomatheatre.com.
Crocker Art Museum in
Sacramento presents: Denying Gravity – Woods Davy and the Assembly of Stones through Aug 11; Penetrating Expressions –Kifwebe Masks of the Songye and Luba People through Aug. 11; and The Proland Vase – Mania and Muse through Sept. 8. For tickets and more information visit crockerart.org.
California Museum in Sacramento presents America at the Crossroads through Sept. 1. Discover the evolution of the guitar as the United States’ most popular instrument and its relationship to historical events and cultural moments over the centuries. For more information visit californiamuseum.org.
Thursday Night Market at Burke Junction runs through Sept. 26 at the Cameron Park shopping center. Enjoy vendors, food and entertainment 5-8 p.m.
Spirited photo exhibit comes to Grass Valley gallery
Leila Srouji
The Center for the Arts
GRASS VALLEY — The Center for the Arts presents Steve Solinsky’s solo exhibition Of Stillness & Light: Photographs, Mystery & Waking the Spirit, on display in the Granucci Gallery Aug. 2 through Sept. 21. Solinksy will awaken the gallery with an aesthetic that creates a harmonious flow of color and light.
Of Stillness & Light: Photographs, Mystery & Waking the Spirit is a collection of photographs printed by the artist on premium art paper, framed in a range of sizes. The collection as a whole is an aesthetic shift in view to see the world in a new way. It should appeal to all artists, anyone with
a passion for art, and anyone with an interest in exploring an awakened or spiritual path. In addition to the photography on display, poems from Solinsky’s forthcoming book will be placed intentionally throughout the exhibition.
The exhibit title is taken from the title of Solinsky’s book, “Of Stillness and Light: Photographs, Mystery, & Waking the Buddha Within,” which is a project he has worked upon these last four years and hopes to publish soon. The book is a collection of images that have inspired the artist most, and within it, he includes text that speaks to the theme of “the wonders of seeing.”
“I think we are all so culturally and personally conditioned that we perceive mostly in a contracted
The Public Square
of duties can be found on the employer’s website (https://norcalcontrols.net/ careers/). Involves occasional eve + weekend hrs. Little domestic travel may be involved. May undergo background checks and drug screening. Salary range is $113,600 - $145,000 annually. Must have Bach in Engineering (Automation, Controls, Electrical, Mechanical) or rel field and 2 yrs relevant SCADA, automation, controls, or integration experience. In the alternative, must have a Master’s in Controls Engineering, Electrical Engineering or rel field and 1 year relevant exp working on renewable energy projects. All applicants also must possess the following skills (2 yrs exp in): applying electrical equipment theory and its basic principles (relays, transformers, and switchgear) to utility-scale
solar projects; working with CAISO, ERCOT, MISO, or PJM regulatory agencies and associated regulations; applying electrical theory to utility-scale solar projects; process instrumentation and control systems; SCADA; working with control or automation system networking mediums; SCADA network topologies and configuration (Fiber topology, Ethernet networks, VLANs, Firewalls, Managed Switches, Virtualization, and VPNs); interpreting power plant electrical schematics, industrial P&IDs, and relevant power generation engineering documents; implementing communication protocols including DNP3, ICCP, Modbus over TCP, and RS-485, RS-232 serial connectors; PID controls and tuning; understanding and creating logic diagrams that address efficient and safe operations using function blocks, ladder, and structured TEXT; applying NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Standards for cybersecurity; configuring software and hardware; troubleshooting control systems both in the field and remotely through operator interfaces and databases; and commissioning and startup of control systems. Any suitable combination of education, training, or experience is acceptable. Visit norcalcontrols.net/careers/ to apply.
Reference case 24-5314. Small, black tablet, lighters, cigarette boxes and lotto tickets found 07/07/24 outside of Casa Los Abuelos (6840 Greenleaf Dr.) in Placerville. Please call Property at 530-621-5763 to describe and claim.
Reference case 24-05640. Black shirt with red and white graphic and other miscellaneous items in a small black trash bag reported found on 07/17/24 at 2989 Cambridge Rd (Cameron Park Lake CSD) in Cameron Park. Please call Property at 530-621-5763 to describe and claim.
to describe/claim.
habitual way,” Solinsky explained. “We tend to experience what we think or expect … Stillness is the state I always find myself in when the mind chatter drops away and all that remains is my subject aglow in the luminous light.”
In addition to displaying his photographs, Solinsky has also added several of his own poems to accompany the exhibition “to celebrate our underlying human potential under the right outlook, for a transformational radiance of mind and heart.”
Solinsky has been a fine art photographer for almost 50 years and has made his living from sales of prints. He has learned much about the creative
Grads Continued from B2
grounded in shared values of service and impact. The school is preparing to welcome its second cohort of 13 students this August, and registration for its third cohort opens on Aug. 19.
as the camera spins around, creating dynamic and immersive photos. Strike a pose, grab some props, and let your personality shine. Whether you’re
Anyone interested in obtaining more information or applying to the Marshall School of Medical Assisting Program can visit aded.edcoe.org/ courses/medical-assistant-program.
jumping, dancing, or just having a blast with friends, the 360-photo booth turns every shot into a memorable experience.
AMMO & GUN
CA 130 Lots of Firearms, 300 Lots of Ammo & 466 Lots Of Accessories: Sale includes mostly “NEW GUNS” with some HIGHLY COLLECTIBLE FIREARMS as well. All bids start at $5.00 and will be sold regardless of the price. Online bidding starts 08/02/24 @ 10am. Accessories and Ammo to be picked up at Selling Dealers Location. All Firearms to be shipped to Your Local Firearms Dealer. For details go to: www.westauction.com Want to Sell or Consign your Firearm Collection, Contact Billy @ (530) 885-9200
Sacred Fire Dance light show
Prepare to be mesmerized by the Sacred Fire Dance light show. Watch as talented performers weave magic with light, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The intricate choreography and stunning visuals will captivate your senses and leave you in awe. Don’t miss this dazzling performance that promises to be the highlight of the evening.
Mezzanine lounge
For a break, retreat to the serene lounge mezzanine. This tranquil space is designed to provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the event. With its stunning aerial view, the mezzanine offers a unique vantage point to take in the entire event while enjoying a moment of relaxation. Comfortable seating and ambient lighting create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the surroundings. Whether you’re looking to recharge with a quiet moment alone or connect with fellow attendees in a more relaxed setting, the lounge mezzanine is the ideal spot to enhance the event experience.
Exciting giveaways
Exciting giveaways await guests at the event. Take home a commemorative glass, custom swag bag, a wine journal with pen, and a bottle of olive oil from Amador Cellars. Plus, enjoy more surprises from the generous sponsors. Tickets for the 11th annual Barbera Festival are available at BarberaFestival.com. For more information call Amador Vintners at (209) 245-6992.
“Awakening To The Dawn” by Steve Solinsky
“Beach Meditation” by Steve Solinsky
One year Beatrice, a young girl in Uganda, received a goat as a gift.
t first she didn’t think it was such a great gift. What she really wanted was money to go to school.
ut Beatrice’s family was very poor. There was little money for medicine, clothes, blankets or food. School was simply a dream.
Much to Beatrice’s surprise, the goat changed all that!
rinking the goat’s milk made Beatrice and her five younger sisters and brothers healthier. The manure from the goat fertilized the garden and made it more productive.
And, the one little goat gave more milk than her family could drink, so they could sell it and make money.
fter a few months of selling the goat’s milk, Beatrice had enough money to go to school!
Beatrice named her goat Mugisa. Use the code to find out what that means. Do you think that was a good name for her goat?
When Heifer International gives a goat or other animal to a family, the family must “pass on the gift.” Recipient families give the animal's first female offspring to another family in need. That family, in turn, passes on the gift to another family. So one gift multiplies throughout the community!
The cost of any animal purchased includes training and medicines to keep the animal healthy.
In addition to farm animals, people can give the gift of trees at www.heifer.org Young trees, called seedlings, can be planted to create a small family orchard of fruit or nut trees. The fruit of the trees provides good nutrition and extra fruit can be sold at market to provide income for a family, too.
Find the two identical goats.
Beatrice’s goat was a gift from an organization called Heifer International. Children and adults can both help Heifer International give farm animals and training to needy families around the world. The gift of a goat is $120. Or you can share the cost with others for a $10 donation.
Unscramble these words to find out the other kinds of gift animals Heifer International can provide to people in need.
When we typed this press release we made some mistakes in letter combinations. Can you match the correct letter combinations to the correct words? Some combinations belong in more than one place.
From Dog Biscuits to a Water Buffalo, 4th Graders Make a Difference
Kathy Zeichman’s f _ _ rthgrade class in Ida, Mi _ _ igan, decided to r _ _ se $250 to donate to H _ _ fer Internat _ _ nal by selling homemade, all-natural dog bisc _ _ ts.
Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.
To find out how you can give a goat to a family visit www.heifer.org
Helpful Hunt
Look through today’s newspaper and find five or more ways people are helping others.
The _ _ udents worked in small gr _ _ ps to take care of the ta _ _ s of contacting med , designing pa aging, preparing order forms, cr _ _ ting an informative inse _ _ , making personalized dog tags and using computers to desi _ _ and pri _ _ labels for the pa _ _ ages.
After _ _ oducing 2,172 dog bi _ _ uits to fill 181 orders, the students sent H _ _ fer Internat _ _ nal $250 to pur _ _ ase a water buffalo for a n _ _ dy family.
Standards
… helping others in time of need.
This week’s word:
OFFSPRING
The noun offspring means the child or young of a human, animal or plant.
The goat gave birth to twin offspring.
Try to use the word offspring in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family.
Creepy Animal Facts
Which animal do you think is the creepiest? Why? Write three facts about your chosen creature.
