Preserving a legacy
museum/cultural center. Two of the donated pieces stand on the easel between the two men, including a recreation of Kinkade’s final piece as it looked at his workspace the day of his death in 2012.
■ Kinkade Gallery makes memorable donation
Odin Rasco Senior sta writer
Although the Thomas Kinkade Hometown Gallery which has operated on Main Street in downtown Placerville for a decade is set to close Aug. 24, some of Kinkade’s art will stay on display in his hometown thanks to a recent donation made to a local nonprofit.
Over the past few years, El Dorado Gold 1848 has been working toward the creation of a new museum and cultural center located at the corner of Bedford Avenue and Main Street (just next to the city’s landmark redwood). The space is planned to host multiple exhibits, including a mineral and gem room, local art and historical artifacts. One room, dubbed “The Gallery Room,” will soon sport six works donated on behalf of the closing Main Street gallery in honor of Kinkade’s ties to Placerville.
“This was his hometown, and I felt like I ought to do something to preserve his work in the area,”
Eric Jaramishian Senior sta writer
explained gallery art consultant and local artist Steve Ellenburg. “Something ought to be left here for Thomas’ legacy.”
Kinkade grew up in Placerville, graduating from El Dorado High School in 1976. Many of his earlier works used his hometown as an inspiration, with scenes depicting Main Street and other Placerville landmarks spilling light out onto a snowy environment. During his life, his art had achieved widespread success, with the Thomas Kinkade Company claiming that one in every 20 U.S. homes owned a copy of one of his paintings at the height of his popularity.
Four of the works donated to El Dorado Gold are smaller 14x14-inch gallery wraps depicting the Cary House, the Fox House, the Combellack House and the courthouse in Placerville. Ellenburg explained he thought it was important some of the paintings were ones that emphasized Kinkade’s connection to his hometown.
The gallery also will donate a rare master’s edition print of a painting of the Golden Gate Bridge that bears Kinkade’s signature and his fingerprint, as well as a hand-drawn sketch of Kinkade’s iconic lamppost logo, on the back of the canvas. The master’s edition print was a
Before approving a response to the El Dorado County Grand Jury 202324 investigation on “Election Integrity: Separating Fact from Fiction,” supervisors were pleased to note the Grand Jury found recent election results were not “materially altered or rigged” thanks to the Election Department’s voting eligibility and voting tabulation procedures.
The June 5 report states despite the current voting system in California not requiring identification to verify voter
Crozier Fire near full containment
Eric Jaramishian Senior sta writer
The Crozier Fire is nearly out, holding the blaze at 1,938 acres and now 98% containment, according to the most recent Cal Fire report.
The interior of the perimeter of the fire continues to smolder as crews work on fire line patrols, mop up, hazard tree mitigation and suppression repair operations, according to an Aug. 16 Cal Fire report.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Cal Fire requests anyone traveling on the narrow Rock Creek Road to “use caution when using it for two-way travel into the Mosquito and Swansboro area.”
The U.S. Forest Service implemented temporary
EDHCSD directors’ conduct questioned
Noel Stack Editor
Responding to a complaint alleging a conflict of interest for El Dorado Hills Community Services District Directors Noelle Mattock and Ben Paulsen, three EDHCSD directors voted at this month’s meeting to initiate a formal investigation.
Dean Getz, a frequent EDHCSD board meeting attendee and oftentimes critic, requested the investigation in early July. In his letter he claims both Mattock and Paulsen were aware that former EDHCSD General Manager Kevin Loewen, who resigned in December 2023, was working for district consultant DTA while also employed with the CSD. A report released earlier this year confirmed his employment and noted it was a clear conflict of interest and violation of CSD policy.
eligibility and identity, which could create “opportunity for individuals to introduce illegitimate votes,” the Elections Department is “doing a good job at minimizing this issue given constraints placed on it by the state.”
During discussion of the Grand Jury’s report Aug. 13, the board lauded Registrar of Voters Bill O’Neill and his department’s e orts to ensure a clean, untampered voting and eligibility process.
“We’ve long known that our Election Department has the utmost integrity and brings that to our local election process, but I think it is really gratifying
to understand that the grand jury also finds and celebrates that,” said District 3 Supervisor Wendy Thomas, board chair.
The report also states the new Elections Department building, located at 3883 Ponderosa Road in Shingle Springs, is “well-designed and e cient operation for managing high-volume elections while providing transparency to the public.”
“The Registrar of Voters and sta are to be commended for the design of the headquarters, integration of the systems and the oversight capability provided,” the report reads.
Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco
Kris Payne, left, a member of the El Dorado Gold 1848 nonprofit, listens as Thomas Kinkade Hometown Gallery operator Steve Ellenburg explains the five paintings the gallery will be donating to the nonprofit’s
NOELLE MATTOCK
BEN PAULSEN
ESSENTIALS
John Robert Klos
June 29, 1959 – Aug. 1, 2024
John was the first baby born at the new Marshall Hospital, 65 years ago along with his twin brother James Marshall Klos.
Born to John Joseph Klos and Barbara Shinn-KlosBogdanoff. John graduated from Ponderosa High School in 1977. He worked 30 years in the bridge building industry, in those 30 years of work, he relocated his family to Northern Idaho in 2004 to 2012. John and his wife Lory, moved back to his childhood home where he was currently living when he passed. John is survived by his mother, Barbara Bogdanoff and his wife Lory Powell Klos, son John Klos, daughter Jennifer Klos, step sister Jan Bray Bernedo.
John was preceded in death by his Father John Joseph Klos, twin brother James Klos, step Mother Ruth Klos and step Brother Charles Bray. A memorial will be held at 4261 Jayhawk Dr., Rescue CA, on Saturday, August 31st at 1:00 pm.
Greg Sanchez
July 23, 1967 – Aug. 2, 2024
Our community lost a good friend the other day. Greg Sanchez, proprietor of the Cameron Park Barber Shop, lost his battle with cancer after a long and valiant struggle. He leaves behind the loves of his life, wife Trisha, daughter Abigail, and grieving mother and sister. I met Greg shortly after he opened his shop over twenty years ago in a small corner space of the strip center located at Cameron Park Drive and Green Valley Road. It was the start of a long and lasting friendship that ultimately included golf, fishing, barber shop poker, home cooked meals and of course, the best haircuts in town. Greg and I loved to trash talk (and bet) about anything and everything. His beloved Oakland Raiders, what golfer was going to win the next major and who was the better cook. He called me Chino Loco and made tee shirts for my entire family depicting a crazy Chinese guy. Since this is a family newspaper I can’t tell you what my nickname for him was but it fit him like a glove. Greg made Cameron Park Barbershop the hub of our small community. He knew everybody and everybody’s business. And despite our friendly feuding, Greg was known to everyone he met as a great guy with a heart of gold and a master barber. The community will miss you brother. Greg served in the U.S. Navy for four years as a firefighter aboard the USS Vulcan. He believed that his exposure to chemicals in use at that time were the cause of his illness. Unfortunately due to his pre existing condition he was unable to obtain life insurance and the family has set up a Go Fund Me account in his name to help with expenses. The link is Https://www.gofundme. com/f/support-the-family-of-navy-veteran-gregsanchez. An informal celebration of Greg’s life will be held on September 7th from 10 am to 2 pm at Henningson Lotus Park.
Nancy A. DuPonte
July 5, 1938 – Aug. 3, 2024
John R. Anderson
John R. Anderson, was called home to be with the Lord at the age of 65, on July 26, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Patricia Anderson, and his brother Daniel Anderson. He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 25 years, Rose Anderson, his niece Danielle, and nephews Bobby and Nathaniel.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, John’s family moved to El Dorado County in 1974. John attended Ponderosa High School, graduating in 1977. In 1995 he went on a mission trip to the Philippines and fell in love with the Filipino people.
He had a wonderful life with his wife whom he loved dearly. Together they owned and operated Rose’s Garden Café in Garden Valley, CA for 14 years. The café was a community hub, and employed several Golden Sierra High School students. John welcomed everyone with a big smile, and his huge heart. John and Rose humbly received and personally experienced much love and support from the community. They retired from the café and moved to Diamond Springs to take care of his mother until she passed.
John loved to play his guitar, passionately singing to the Lord, and was not shy in sharing his faith in Christ with other people. Skiing at Sierra at-Tahoe Resort was one of his alltime favorite recreations. John loved travelling with Rose in the U.S. and abroad. He was an adventurer, explorer, and navigator. John was an active member of In Shape Family Fitness where he worked out and oftentimes joined his wife at the pool for the Zumba Aqua Fit classes. He enjoyed life to the fullest in his own simple way. John touched so many lives and will be deeply missed!
The Celebration of Life will be held at Green Valley Community Church, 3500 Missouri Flat Rd, Placerville, CA on August 29, 2024 at 1:00pm.
Nancy Allen
Nancy was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island and was preceded in death by parents, Earl and Ruth Crawford, and 5 siblings, with one surviving sibling, Robert. Nancy married Arthur Allen in 1969. They have two sons, Christopher and Shawn, and two grandsons. Nancy was a Licensed Vocational Nurse dedicated to helping others as a member of the Peace Corp, owner of her own home nursing business, Captain of the Garden Valley Fire Department Rescue Squad, and Red Cross Volunteer. They moved to Bend in 2006 where she was a certified Ombudsman and served on the Bend Accessibility Advisory Committee. No services are planned. For more information on her life visit her listing on the Autumn Funeral Home website at www.autumnfunerals.com.
Jimmie Earl Keen
March 21, 1932 – Aug. 5, 2024
Nancy A. Duponte passed away August 3, 2024 at the age of 86. Nancy leaves behind three daughters Kathleen (Paul) Casbarrow, Sherry Kemp and Lora (Kevin) Miller. Nancy also leaves behind five grandchildren, six great grandchildren, two sisters, extended family in Northern California and Texas, to many friends to list and co-workers.
Nancy was born in Sacramento and lived there with her mom and dad (Kirchgater), brother Ronald, sisters Barbara, Linda, Carol and Sandy. Nancy attended McClatchy High School where she met Jordon DuPonte and married soon after graduation. Nancy raised her family in the Bay Area and Carmichael, before settling in Placerville in the mid 70’s.
Nancy had numerous jobs over the years but none were as fulfilling as her job At Raley’s in Placerville starting in 1979 until she retired in 1996. Nancy was an early riser working in the Bakery at Raley’s where she greeted the local customers and generations of families during her three decades while working there.
Nancy loved her daughters and was always present at all her grandchildren’s school events and sporting events. Nancy loved her trips with Jordon to the ocean, visiting friends, Sunday service, and neighborhood socials. Nancy loved the rain, cloudy days and a good cup of coffee. Nancy enjoyed listening to music, especially Elvis Presley with her best friend Sharon since Kindergarten.
Nancy was always present, always went out of her way to visit her family and friends. Nancy enjoyed sewing, watching golf and even golfed a time or two with Jordon. Nancy loved her dog Nelli (x2), long walks, well done hot dogs and daily phone calls to her daughter(s).
Nancy had such an amazing impact on everyone’s life and truly was a wonderful woman. We love and miss her dearly with her beautiful blue eyes.
EDSO Citizen’s Academy now recruiting
El Dorado County Sheriff ’s Office
News release
The El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce Citizen’s Academy begins Sept. 25. This is a free training program designed to familiarize participants with the many aspects of law enforcement and the role the sheri ’s o ce plays in the community. This program meets at the EDSO Public Safety Facility and runs approximately 11 consecutive weeks, 6-9 p.m. on Wednesdays. Each week will bring a di erent instructor to discuss a variety of law enforcement topics and provide a behind-thescenes look at the various EDSO units, equipment and facilities. Another bonus of this program includes an opportunity to take a ride-a-long with an EDSO deputy. Space is limited so it’s important to register as soon as possible. Due to adult themes and content the academy is only for ages 18 and older. There are exceptions to this; call or email for further information. This is a must for every resident of El Dorado County. For more information contact the program coordinator: Det. Cortez (530) 621-5992 or email cortezn@edso.org.
The following information was taken from Placerville Police reports:
July 21
7:05 a.m. Trespassing reported on Forni Road.
8:22 a.m. Trespassing reported on Forni Road.
July 22
8:55 a.m. Animal abuse reported on Fair Lane.
9:12 p.m. Battery reported on Main Street.
July 23
6:01 a.m. Vandalism reported on Broadway.
9:25 a.m. Petty theft reported on Broadway.
2:17 p.m. Petty theft reported on Forni Road.
July 24
1:21 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 33-year-old man on suspicion of DUI, possession of unlawful paraphernalia and violation of post release community supervision on Broadway. He was listed in custody in lieu of $10,000 bail.
Jimmie passed away in his home August 5, 2024. Born to Robert and Lillie Keen March 21, 1932, was the middle of five children. Married Doloris Flockhart Nov. 11, 1951, and had four children together. Moved to Placerville 2005. Member of the Placerville Church of the Nazarene. He leaves behind two daughters, Bonnie, Connie, 9 grand, 17 great and 12 greatgreat-grandchildren. Services will be held at the Placerville Church of the Nazarene, 10 am, August 23, 2024. He will be laid to rest next to his wife in the Gridley/Biggs Cemetery. If you would like to make a donation in his memory the family request all donations, be made to “Placerville Church of the Nazarene – Baptistry.”
CONTACT US Of
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Toll-Free from El Dorado Hills: (888) 622-1255
PUBLISHER
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EDITORIAL STAFF
Noel Stack Editor
530-344-5073 / nstack@villagelife.net
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Letty Bejarano-Carvajal Graphics Manager (530) 344-5049 / lettyb@mtdemocrat.net
“Staff Directory” at the bottom of mtdemocrat.com for full staff
If
VACATION HOLDS
1:35 a.m. Vandalism reported on Broadway.
8:26 p.m. Trespassing reported on Placerville Drive.
July 25
12:34 p.m. Grand theft reported on Main Street.
4:16 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 28-year-old man on suspicion of a parole violation on Broadway. He was listed in custody.
10:07 p.m. Vandalism reported on
Mosquito Road.
July 26
8:42 a.m. Petty theft reported on Fair Lane.
9:17 a.m. Petty theft reported in the city (street not listed).
12:23 p.m. Petty theft reported on Broadway.
6:36 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 32-year-old man on suspicion of use of controlled substance and obstruction on Broadway. He was released on $3,000 bail.
July 27
8:49 a.m. Battery reported on Broadway.
6:49 p.m. O cers cited a person suspected of trespassing at a store on Placerville Drive.
8:11 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 28-year-old man on suspicion of disorderly conduct on Madrone Lane. He was later released.
9:26 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 34-year-old woman on suspicion of DUI on Mosquito Road. She was later released.
11:40 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 26-year-old woman on suspicion of use of a controlled substance, possession of unlawful paraphernalia and obstruction on Placerville Drive. She was released on $3,000 bail.
July 28
4:43 p.m. Battery reported on Schnell School Road.
July 29
7:36 a.m. Petty theft reported on Placerville Drive.
11:17 p.m. Battery reported on Placerville Drive.
LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES
Pony Express Trail crash sends two to hospital
Odin Rasco Senior staff writer
A broadside collision on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines sent two motorists to local hospitals with suspected injuries the afternoon of Monday, Aug. 19.
First responders received a call about a traffic collision at 2:32 p.m. and arrived shortly afterward, according to California Highway Patrol Officer Andrew Brown, discovering a Dodge truck had collided into the side of a Chevy SUV just east of Piazza Court. Crews from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District and Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit disentangled and extracted the driver of the Chevy, 87-year-old Pollock Pines resident
Sandra Wilson, from the wreck. Wilson was suspected to have sustained serious injuries and was transported by helicopter to Sutter Roseville.
The driver of the Dodge, 35-yearold Pollock Pines resident Joshua Roenfeldt, was transported to Marshall Hospital by ground ambulance with suspected minor injuries.
Details of the crash are still under investigation, according to Brown, but initial reports indicate Wilson may have been backing out of a driveway onto Pony Express Trail, where the eastbound Dodge had been traveling.
“We’re still looking into the crash, and will collect statements from witnesses and the drivers,” Brown said. “We hope they recover well and can return home soon.”
Small fire scorches grass
Odin Rasco Senior staff writer
Fire crews quickly extinguished a small fire alongside Placerville Drive near Highway 50 the afternoon of Sunday, Aug. 18. First spotted at around 3:45 p.m., a Sunday, Aug. 18, vegetation fire burned away dead grass and debris at the roadside between Placerville Drive and an onramp connected to Highway 50. Firefighters turned out in force, with engines and crews from El Dorado
Mountain Democrat staff
El Dorado County Parks and Trails staff along with District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine will host a community meeting on Aug. 21 to present a master plan for Forebay Park in Pollock Pines.
The meeting will be held 6-8 p.m. at the Pollock Pines-Camino Community Center, 2675 Sanders Drive. Staff will provide progress made on the renovation project, project funding, the Forebay Park master plan, next steps and renovation timeline.
In 2022, the community participated in a visioning process that was used to create a conceptual design for the park. In 2023, the environmental process was completed and a phased renovation plan was developed. In 2024, the county contracted with a civil engineering firm that prepared the master plan that will be presented at this meeting.
John Mooney, DC
John Palmer, DC
Lee Kinney, DC
Jeffrey DeWeese, MD
Tracey Fremd, NP
County Fire Protection and Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection districts and the Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit quickly arriving to quell the flames. Officers and deputies from the Placerville Police Department and the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office also responded.
The fire was stopped at just .11 acres with no structures threatened and no injuries reported.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, according to information posted by EDCFPD.
The Forebay Park project update webpage has more details. Visit eldoradocounty.ca.gov
and go to Land Use, select Parks and Trails then Parks – Upcoming Projects.
Dr. Little’s Dental News
Presented by Jeffery Little, D.D.S.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT HEART CONDITIONS AND DENTAL WORK
Our hearts are connected to our mouths through the bloodstream. Our mouths are also full of bacteria. Dental work, including routine cleanings, can create tiny openings in the gums that make it easier for bacteria to enter the bloodstream. If bacteria reach the heart, they can inflame the heart’s inner lining, causing endocarditis. Most people with a healthy immune system can fight these bacteria effectively, but people with heart conditions and other cardiac abnormalities are at higher risk for developing endocarditis. Antibiotics were previously used preventively during dental work for most heart patients. These days, antibiotics are mostly recommended for high-risk patients like those with a prosthetic valve, transplants with value complications, prior endocarditis, and some congenital heart conditions.
Acknowledging the inherent connection between oral health and a patient’s overall health, your dentist will use many techniques to diagnose, treat, restore, and promote total patient well-being. We offer this column in the hopes of educating the general public about the benefits of oral health. If we can help, either by answering questions or by providing comprehensive dental care, please call us. State-of-the-art dentistry and a dedicated professional dental team make our office the ideal place to achieve optimum oral health.
P.S. Heart conditions and dental treatments both vary widely in type, severity, and risk of complications. Talk to your dentist and your cardiologist to learn their recommendations for your specific heart condition while receiving dental work.
Courtesy photo
El Dorado County Fire Protection District firemen prepare to helicopter transport a Pollock Pines woman who sustained serious injuries in a t-bone collision on Pony Express Trail Monday.
Courtesy photo Fire crews extinguish a small vegetation fire that flared up
Bill to close rape loophole, protect victims clears major hurdle
SACRAMENTO
— The California State Assembly Appropriations Committee unanimously approved Senate Bill 268, authored by Sen, Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson), which will close a loophole in current law that allows certain rapists to receive preferential treatment in sentencing and early release proceedings.
Alvarado-Gil — herself a victim of sexual assault — has been a staunch advocate on the issue since being elected to the senate in 2022 and SB 268 has received widespread support from legislators and victims’ rights groups on all sides of the political spectrum.
“I sincerely appreciate the bipartisan, positive vote of the members of the Assembly Appropriations Committee today,” said Alvarado-Gil on Aug. 15. “This is not a victory for me; it is a victory for her, for him, for all the victims of rape who are served half portions of justice by the current system. No rape is less serious than the other. No rape is more acceptable than another. And no law should tell a victim that what happened to them is not as significant as what happened to someone else. Today, we took a huge step away from that and I couldn’t be more pleased.”
SB 268 will classify rape of an intoxicated person as a violent
felony. By reclassifying it as such, criminals whose victims are intoxicated would be eligible for sentencing enhancements and ineligible for early release. It has experienced widespread bipartisan support in both houses of the
“This is not a victory for me; it is a victory for her, for him, for all the victims of rape who are served half portions of justice by the current system.”
Legislature and will now move to the Assembly Floor for a full vote of that house.
“This is a rare, meaningful, and bipartisan win for victims’ rights in California,” said Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego). “Under no circumstances should rapists be treated leniently because of some obscure loophole in the law. Today’s outcome will help ensure victims get the justice they deserve and perpetrators are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) who also coauthored the bill, expressed her jubilation
— Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil
at the decision as well. She has been actively engaged in public safety reforms as a top priority throughout her tenure in the legislature and has worked actively to see SB 268 through the process.
“Every rape is serious and violent. Senate Bill 268 will ensure these predators are punished fully and all sexual assault victims receive equal justice,” said Ochoa Bogh. “This issue transcends partisan politics; it is a human issue, not a political one. I am encouraged to see that when something this imperative comes along, members of both parties are still able to put the people first as they have here today.”
Injured hiker rescued Saturday
Noel Stack Editor
El Dorado Hills Fire Department, Folsom Fire Department and Cal Fire crews rescued an unidentified woman who suffered minor injuries after falling on a trail near Browns Ravine on Saturday, Aug. 17.
The woman fell on the trail approximately 1 mile from the Hobie Cove boat ramp and called 911 at about 10 a.m., prompting quick action from rescue crews specially trained to handle such incidents, according to EDH Fire Deputy Chief Michael Lilienthal.
“Firefighters carry specialty equipment on the fire engines and in separate vehicles that are
used to help rescue victims in remote locations,” Lilienthal shared with the Mountain Democrat.
“After approximately 30 minutes, firefighters were able to locate the victim and assist her back to a waiting ambulance with only minor injuries.”
This successful rescue serves as a good reminder for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. “Please remember to use caution while hiking on remote trails, carry extra water and carry your cell phone so you can call for help if needed,” Lilienthal noted.
The woman’s name was not released but a person who identified themself as a friend posted on social media the victim was “doing alright” as of Sunday, Aug. 18.
she claims warned Mattock that those Hannaman is “aligned with” are “coming after you, and they are coming for your livelihoods and your reputations.”
“That is something that was a closed session discussion, and that is a complete violation of our privacy of closed session,” Hannaman interjected.
That relationship, Getz alleges, led to district leadership’s refusal to sign a document attesting to the accuracy of LLAD assessments as prepared by DTA. El Dorado County Auditor-Controller Joe Harn requested the letter after he expressed concerns about discrepancies in DTA’s work. Assessments were left off the property tax rolls for two years, amounting to an approximately $2.8 million loss for the CSD. The CSD Board of Directors later sued the auditor.
“... as documented in the Loewen investigation, President Noelle Mattock admitted knowing that Loewen worked for DTA,” Getz’ letter notes. “Despite this knowledge, she chose to initiate costly litigation with the county’s auditor-controller rather than risk exposing Loewen DTA, or her awareness of Loewen’s conflict of interest with DTA, etc.”
“I assert that district records support the fact that ... Paulsen actively participated in the district’s deliberate evasion of signing the attestations for DTA’s work products mandated by the county,” the letter continues.
Mattock spoke at the Aug. 8 board meeting after Directors Mike Martinelli, Heidi Hannaman and Steve Ferry voted to hire Shaw Law Group for investigative services. Paulsen was absent.
The board president continued by adding that complainant Getz had gone so far as to email allegations of wrongdoing against Mattock to city staff and elected officials where she works.
“Now to address the issue,” Mattock continued. “Did I know if the former general manager worked for DTA? To my recollection, the answer is no.”
Reading from a prepared statement, board President Mattock claimed the auditor “tried to force me to violate my role as an elected official” by demanding she sign the attestation letter in 2021.
Loewen signed the document in 2021 but refused in 2022 and 2023, going as far as publicly calling Harn “a bully on the playground” after the CSD filed its lawsuit.
The auditor has maintained that the county’s contract to collect LLAD assessments on behalf of the district “requires the CSD provide any certification of the accuracy and lawfulness of the assessments that the county requires.”
At the Aug. 8 meeting Mattock called Harn’s actions “a political attack against the two board members who are up for reelection this year.”
Mattock did file paperwork to retain her seat; Paulsen did not. The board president also signed Harn’s requested letter this year, submitting it on Aug. 9 to ensure all assessments will be on the upcoming tax roll.
Mattock also had pointed words for fellow director Hannaman, whom
Mattock told meeting attendees she was not aware of the professional relationship until it was brought to the board’s attention in the summer of 2023. However, during her interview related to the Loewen investigation, it’s noted in the confidential report, “Mattock did not know if Loewen indeed began conducting outside business, nor did she recall any conversations about him working with DTA. However, she also recalled, prior to the public allegations, knowing Loewen was working for DTA. She stated she ‘thought (she) knew’ he was working for them based on a conversation they had, ‘but it was so long ago’ she did not recall how or when it happened.
“Mattock did not have concerns about Loewen working for DTA ‘as long as it has nothing to do with what (the district) is doing,’” the report continues, noting she had no concerns about a conflict of interest.
In response to Mattock’s public accusations, Harn sent a response to the Mountain Democrat, stating, in part, “Noelle has been sneaky and has been willing to break the law in order to prevent the public from finding out what the district is doing. In August 2023, Loewen and Noelle refused to certify the accuracy and lawfulness of the assessments prepared by DTA. Although, in their defense, they were busy and in crisis mode trying to cover up Loewen’s employment with DTA and trying to develop ... messaging to indicate (1) everybody makes mistakes on the financial disclosure forms required by state law and (2) even if Loewen worked for DTA, it is irrelevant.”
Courtesy photo
Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil speaks at a bipartisan press conference on Senate Bill 268.
Photo courtesy of EDH Fire Emergency crews arrive at the scene of a rescue near Browns Ravine in El Dorado Hills on Aug. 17.
Bill to close rape loophole, protect victims clears major hurdle
SACRAMENTO
— The California State Assembly Appropriations Committee unanimously approved Senate Bill 268, authored by Sen, Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-Jackson), which will close a loophole in current law that allows certain rapists to receive preferential treatment in sentencing and early release proceedings.
Alvarado-Gil — herself a victim of sexual assault — has been a staunch advocate on the issue since being elected to the senate in 2022 and SB 268 has received widespread support from legislators and victims’ rights groups on all sides of the political spectrum.
“I sincerely appreciate the bipartisan, positive vote of the members of the Assembly Appropriations Committee today,” said Alvarado-Gil on Aug. 15. “This is not a victory for me; it is a victory for her, for him, for all the victims of rape who are served half portions of justice by the current system. No rape is less serious than the other. No rape is more acceptable than another. And no law should tell a victim that what happened to them is not as significant as what happened to someone else. Today, we took a huge step away from that and I couldn’t be more pleased.”
SB 268 will classify rape of an intoxicated person as a violent
felony. By reclassifying it as such, criminals whose victims are intoxicated would be eligible for sentencing enhancements and ineligible for early release. It has experienced widespread bipartisan support in both houses of the
“This is not a victory for me; it is a victory for her, for him, for all the victims of rape who are served half portions of justice by the current system.”
Legislature and will now move to the Assembly Floor for a full vote of that house.
“This is a rare, meaningful, and bipartisan win for victims’ rights in California,” said Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego). “Under no circumstances should rapists be treated leniently because of some obscure loophole in the law. Today’s outcome will help ensure victims get the justice they deserve and perpetrators are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) who also coauthored the bill, expressed her jubilation
— Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil
at the decision as well. She has been actively engaged in public safety reforms as a top priority throughout her tenure in the legislature and has worked actively to see SB 268 through the process.
“Every rape is serious and violent. Senate Bill 268 will ensure these predators are punished fully and all sexual assault victims receive equal justice,” said Ochoa Bogh. “This issue transcends partisan politics; it is a human issue, not a political one. I am encouraged to see that when something this imperative comes along, members of both parties are still able to put the people first as they have here today.”
Injured hiker rescued Saturday
Noel Stack Editor
El Dorado Hills Fire Department, Folsom Fire Department and Cal Fire crews rescued an unidentified woman who suffered minor injuries after falling on a trail near Browns Ravine on Saturday, Aug. 17.
The woman fell on the trail approximately 1 mile from the Hobie Cove boat ramp and called 911 at about 10 a.m., prompting quick action from rescue crews specially trained to handle such incidents, according to EDH Fire Deputy Chief Michael Lilienthal.
“Firefighters carry specialty equipment on the fire engines and in separate vehicles that are
used to help rescue victims in remote locations,” Lilienthal shared with the Mountain Democrat.
“After approximately 30 minutes, firefighters were able to locate the victim and assist her back to a waiting ambulance with only minor injuries.”
This successful rescue serves as a good reminder for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. “Please remember to use caution while hiking on remote trails, carry extra water and carry your cell phone so you can call for help if needed,” Lilienthal noted.
The woman’s name was not released but a person who identified themself as a friend posted on social media the victim was “doing alright” as of Sunday, Aug. 18.
she claims warned Mattock that those Hannaman is “aligned with” are “coming after you, and they are coming for your livelihoods and your reputations.”
“That is something that was a closed session discussion, and that is a complete violation of our privacy of closed session,” Hannaman interjected.
That relationship, Getz alleges, led to district leadership’s refusal to sign a document attesting to the accuracy of LLAD assessments as prepared by DTA. El Dorado County Auditor-Controller Joe Harn requested the letter after he expressed concerns about discrepancies in DTA’s work. Assessments were left off the property tax rolls for two years, amounting to an approximately $2.8 million loss for the CSD. The CSD Board of Directors later sued the auditor.
“... as documented in the Loewen investigation, President Noelle Mattock admitted knowing that Loewen worked for DTA,” Getz’ letter notes. “Despite this knowledge, she chose to initiate costly litigation with the county’s auditor-controller rather than risk exposing Loewen DTA, or her awareness of Loewen’s conflict of interest with DTA, etc.”
“I assert that district records support the fact that ... Paulsen actively participated in the district’s deliberate evasion of signing the attestations for DTA’s work products mandated by the county,” the letter continues.
Mattock spoke at the Aug. 8 board meeting after Directors Mike Martinelli, Heidi Hannaman and Steve Ferry voted to hire Shaw Law Group for investigative services. Paulsen was absent.
The board president continued by adding that complainant Getz had gone so far as to email allegations of wrongdoing against Mattock to city staff and elected officials where she works.
“Now to address the issue,” Mattock continued. “Did I know if the former general manager worked for DTA? To my recollection, the answer is no.”
Reading from a prepared statement, board President Mattock claimed the auditor “tried to force me to violate my role as an elected official” by demanding she sign the attestation letter in 2021.
Loewen signed the document in 2021 but refused in 2022 and 2023, going as far as publicly calling Harn “a bully on the playground” after the CSD filed its lawsuit.
The auditor has maintained that the county’s contract to collect LLAD assessments on behalf of the district “requires the CSD provide any certification of the accuracy and lawfulness of the assessments that the county requires.”
At the Aug. 8 meeting Mattock called Harn’s actions “a political attack against the two board members who are up for reelection this year.”
Mattock did file paperwork to retain her seat; Paulsen did not. The board president also signed Harn’s requested letter this year, submitting it on Aug. 9 to ensure all assessments will be on the upcoming tax roll.
Mattock also had pointed words for fellow director Hannaman, whom
Mattock told meeting attendees she was not aware of the professional relationship until it was brought to the board’s attention in the summer of 2023. However, during her interview related to the Loewen investigation, it’s noted in the confidential report, “Mattock did not know if Loewen indeed began conducting outside business, nor did she recall any conversations about him working with DTA. However, she also recalled, prior to the public allegations, knowing Loewen was working for DTA. She stated she ‘thought (she) knew’ he was working for them based on a conversation they had, ‘but it was so long ago’ she did not recall how or when it happened.
“Mattock did not have concerns about Loewen working for DTA ‘as long as it has nothing to do with what (the district) is doing,’” the report continues, noting she had no concerns about a conflict of interest.
In response to Mattock’s public accusations, Harn sent a response to the Mountain Democrat, stating, in part, “Noelle has been sneaky and has been willing to break the law in order to prevent the public from finding out what the district is doing. In August 2023, Loewen and Noelle refused to certify the accuracy and lawfulness of the assessments prepared by DTA. Although, in their defense, they were busy and in crisis mode trying to cover up Loewen’s employment with DTA and trying to develop ... messaging to indicate (1) everybody makes mistakes on the financial disclosure forms required by state law and (2) even if Loewen worked for DTA, it is irrelevant.”
Courtesy photo
Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil speaks at a bipartisan press conference on Senate Bill 268.
Photo courtesy of EDH Fire Emergency crews arrive at the scene of a rescue near Browns Ravine in El Dorado Hills on Aug. 17.
OPINION
California Matters
Unions try to protect jobs with legislation
When the industrial revolution erupted in 18th century Britain — replacing handwork with machinery in the manufacture of goods — many of the a ected textile workers responded by attacking and disabling the machines.
The rebels became known as Luddites, so named for “General Ned Ludd” or “King Ludd,” a mythical figure living in Sherwood Forest. In the more than 200 years since, the moniker has been applied to anyone who resists introduction of new technology, particularly in the workplace.
Over the last half-century digital technology has driven a new industrial revolution, completely changing the nature of work as it destroyed old economic sectors and created new ones.
When I began my career in journalism 64 years ago, I and other reporters wrote our stories on paper, using cast iron Underwood typewriters; after which the “copy” was read and sometimes altered by an editor with a lead pencil. It was then set in metallic type by a composing room worker and transformed into a metallic printing plate by other workers who installed it on an immense printing press to produce newspapers.
Over the last halfcentury digital technology has driven a new industrial revolution, completely changing the nature of work as it destroyed old economic sectors and created new ones.
Today I’m writing this column on a Hewlett Packard computer. Virtually all the information being cited in the column was gathered from online sources, including details of a bill from the Legislature’s website and videos from CalMatters’ Digital Democracy archives.
When I’m finished, the column moves electronically to an editor using the same digital technology and the finished product then is electronically published on the internet. CalMatters exists because of technology, while newspapers still producing paper copies are struggling due to competition for advertising from digital rivals.
California has played the seminal role in the new technological revolution, but it’s also a center of resistance.
The bill to which I referred earlier is Senate Bill 1446, which sailed through the Senate earlier this year but is now enmeshed in a clash between labor unions and retailers, particularly grocers, in the Assembly.
In recent years, supermarket operators have introduced kiosks in which customers can check
■ See WALTERS, page A7
The Balancing Act
Richard B. Esposito Publisher
Letters to the Editor
Agree to disagree, respectfully
EDITOR:
I’ve never written a letter to the editor, but I read them. If you walk by my o ce, you might hear me talking aloud as I read because they bring out strong emotions.
Sometimes I laugh at people’s absurd assumptions about other’s morality, intellect or lack of concern for humanity based solely on their political party. I think that is called prejudice and it’s supposed to be socially unacceptable. Supposedly, we live in a society where there’s acceptance of diversity, allowance and even encouragement to share our own opinions. But that’s a farce, for it seems that’s only true as long you’re not in opposition to “them.”
I feel a deep sadness when I read the awful things people write on both sides of the political aisle.
I have Democrat and Republican friends, those who believe in God and those who don’t, those who believe there’s right and wrong and those who believe right and wrong are in the eye of the beholder. Yet, each says they care about people (sick, homeless, hungry, the next generation), they want a safe and thriving country and we all agree the media is untrustworthy.
So why are people so angry with one another when, at the heart of it, we all seem to want the same things? Why do grown adults call each other names and cut o family and friends who think di erently? Why are we still listening and making decisions based on the “news”?
I don’t have all the answers, but I believe we, as a community, can start to change things. I love what David Zelinsky wrote in his letter on March 10, 2023, “Let’s give each other permission to disagree.”
Lord knows, if you ask, and sometimes when you don’t, I’ll tell you what I believe, but if you disagree, you can still be my friend. Can’t everyone do this?
Donna Skelton wrote in her letter on June 7, 2023, “We can disagree intelligently by presenting well-reasoned arguments without attacking each other.” In fact, her whole letter gives great steps to “exchange ideas without being hateful and divisive.” On the day I read it, if you had been walking past my o ce I can almost guarantee
you’d have heard me saying, “Yes! Thank you!”
Let’s re-adopt this: “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”
Side note: it’s not unkind to have di ering opinions; however, name-calling and assuming people’s character or values based on their di ering opinions or political party is unkind and perpetuates the problems. Instead, let’s open our eyes and see the evidence around us, research facts for ourselves and have open and meaningful conversations. Because even if you have the answer to an issue, nobody will listen to your solution when it’s slathered in hate. Let’s listen, assume the best of others, be open-minded and maybe learn something from those whose beliefs are di erent from our own, lessen the divide and work together to see a better tomorrow.
KELLY CARNAHAN Placerville
Bad deals for America
EDITOR:
Can we a ord another four years of this present administration and lose an additional 20-25% of our incomes? I sure as hell can’t. Inflation doesn’t just randomly happen in waves and cycles. It’s caused by poor decisions, bad policy, and government overspending; all of which our federal government is guilty of.
Two major, costly items that Kamala will be ramming thru are 1) the infamous Green New Deal (basically decreasing our oil production to save the world) and 2) reparations for AfricanAmericans. Don’t let the media make you feel antienvironment or racist if you oppose these issues. That’s B S.
Heaven forbid if World War III were to occur. If so, we cannot be energy dependent as we are today or we will be weaker and far more vulnerable than we should be. The outcome will be sure disaster for America. Why are we crippling our economy as we embrace the Green New Deal, while other countries continuously produce 90% of the world’s contaminants. They laugh at us for trying to be vigilant.
A recent editorial in the NY Times declared that all of our GND e orts and it’s tremendous costs
■ See LETTERS, page A7
Democratic candidates running, no racing, to the left
Democrat presidential nominee Kamala
Harris is not doing a good job of hiding her socialist/communist philosophy and far left views of embracing the Green (actually “red”) New Deal, banning oil, natural gas and gasoline cars (while making electric cars only for the elites) and banning private medical care (socialized medicine) —all while promising to enforce wokeness and DIE (diversity, inclusion, equity) — and she doubled down by picking the leftist, woke governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, as her vice-presidential running comrade.
Walz has a lot in common as they had a tag team match going during the 2020 Minneapolis BLM riots where Walz was the Minnesota governor and Harris was the leftist senator from California. When the riots started, Walz refused help from then President Donald Trump to stop the riots while he delayed for days his own use of the
National Guard, despite pleas from the left-wing Minneapolis mayor. It was Harris who set up a bail (out) fund for those rioters arrested so they could immediately get out of jail and continue their criminal rampage. Some of those criminals bailed out committed rape and other violent crimes. Walz allowed the criminals to burn down, loot and vandalize his largest city, impacting private businesses, government buildings and police stations. A Minnesota State Senate report on October 2020 concluded that Walz had the ability to stop the riots, but he chose not to. He allowed (many say he encouraged) whole blocks of Minneapolis to burn to the ground with more than 1,500 buildings looted, destroyed and/or damaged. Damages were estimated at more than $500 million, all paid for by his constituents and insurance ratepayers from around the country. That means you and me. And after these riots were finally put down, Harris said on Stephen
… Walz had the ability to stop the riots, but he chose not to. He allowed (many say he encouraged) whole blocks of Minneapolis to burn to the ground …
Colbert’s show, “These aren’t going to stop.” Now you don’t have to wonder why Harris was an advocate of “defund the police.”
Both Walz and Harris never had jobs in the private sector. Walz enlisted in the local National Guard, went to college on the GI Bill and then became a teacher. Later he became a Minnesota congressman, before becoming governor. Harris used her connections to get political appointments, worked as a district attorney and then ran for o ce. Neither have run a business nor wrote a paycheck.
Walz’ Minnesota record as governor is all red (ink). He raised sales and use taxes, especially on cars and boats (remember Minnesota, the “Land of Ten Thousand Lakes,” has more boats per capita than any other state). His state has the highest corporate tax rate and second highest capital gain rate. When he came into o ce, the state had a $17.6 billion surplus. Walz
quickly spent (wasted) it.
Walz in 2019 said, “I want to invest in a ladder company so I can help illegals (my word) get over the wall.” He advocated and signed legislation for driver’s licenses, health care and free college for illegals. Walz as governor approved feminine hygiene products in boys’ bath and locker rooms. During COVID lockdowns he had a hotline (phone number) to turn in neighbors who did not comply with the state’s (strictest in the nation) lockdown laws.
And, finally, Walz’ definition of socialism is “One person’s socialism is another person’s neighborliness.” The only problem is this is not an equivalency, moral or otherwise, as socialism is mandatory; neighborliness is voluntary. Recently a video of Harris from 2017 on some gossip television show had her saying “We must be woker, more
■ See WEITZMAN, page A7
LARRY WEITZMAN
DAN WALTERS
Walters Continued from A6 out themselves without lining up to have a clerk physically process the contents of their carts.
In years past, checkout clerks would have to know the price of each item, if it wasn’t marked, or refer to a paper price list. Technology, in the form of barcodes, sped up checkouts by cashiers, but also allows customers to scan their own items and pay with credit cards.
Some stores have experimented with having scanners determine total purchases without processing individual items and/or identifying customers by scanning their hands and linking them to a pre-designated credit card.
Supermarket technology has reduced the numbers of workers needed to process checkouts and SB 1446 aims to protect unionized jobs by limiting use of self-service kiosks and setting specific staffing levels. It also requires grocers and other retailers to give 60-day notice before introducing new technology, such as “self-checkout robotics, wearable sensors and scanners that eliminate, automate or electronically monitor the core job functions of an employee.”
The legislation’s author, Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, a Los Angeles Democrat and former union organizer, and the bill’s sponsors contended during a recent online news conference that it’s needed to protect the safety of employees from thieves and aggressive customers, but it’s clearly aimed at protecting store workers from being replaced with machines.
Grocers, meanwhile, say the legislation would limit customer choices and mandate operational costs that would be reflected in grocery prices. It’s not the first time such legislation has surfaced. For instance, recent appropriations for upgrading port facilities have contained prohibitions on installing labor-saving automation. The advent of artificial intelligence will likely lead to more such clashes.
Luddism is apparently not confined to 18th century Britain’s textile industry.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters. org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
Weitzman Continued from A6
woke and other phrases as why we need wokeness.” Woke is an anti-First Amendment, anti-freedom and antiAmerican concept.
Why was the apparent leading candidate for democrat vice president, Josh Shapiro, passed over (pun intended) for this position? The honest and most genuine answer is that Shapiro, who is Jewish, is an ardent supporter of Israel. Shapiro even tried to prostitute himself by backing off from his support for Israel, but still was rejected by the antisemitic radical Democrats.
Letters Continued from A6
are being canceled out by the massive pollution of China, India and Vietnam. Many of our large corporations are getting rich off the GND with hardly any accountability.
Why are we now considering reparations, 160 years after the fact? Is this an act of “compassion” by the Dems? Nice idea, but that’s like putting a bandaid on a scar that was inflicted generations ago. It could cost taxpayers into the trillions, causing inflation to skyrocket.
Harris has shown herself to support Hamas. That’s understandable as Hamas is a far-left dictatorial movement.
How can a Jew vote for Harris/Walz?
As recently said in Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech before a joint session of Congress (which was boycotted by nearly every left-wing and pro-Hamas Democrat in Congress, including Harris): seeing signs at proHamas rallies that read, “’Gays for Gaza,’ is like saying ‘chickens for KFC.’” Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.
BTW, it doesn’t mean you lack compassion or are racist if you oppose it. These two issues are major inflation inciters and there will be others (ie. billions toward student loan debt). Let us remember that low- and middleincome folks are hurt the most by inflation. Apparently Biden and Kamala don’t understand that. Or do they, but they don’t care as long as they achieve their agenda.
BRUCE TEIE
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
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
TAXPAYERS
Placerville
ong before there were airplanes, people dreamed of flying. Courageous dreamers like the Wright Brothers made the dream a reality.
The first pilots were always testing the limits of speed, distance and altitude.
One pilot also challenged the role of women. Her name was Amelia Earhart.
When Amelia was a young woman, it was not considered “ladylike” to become a pilot. Very few women had ever learned to fly. But Amelia was raised to be her own person and to follow her heart.
In 1920, she paid $1 for a 10-minute ride in an airplane. “As soon as I left the ground,” she wrote later, “I knew I myself had to fly.” Little did she know that she would become one of the world’s most famous pilots.
Amelia Earhart set many flying records. As a crew member of the Friendship Flight in 1928, she was the first woman ever to fly across the Atlantic.
Four years later, Amelia flew her own plane across the vast Atlantic Ocean alone.
Where did she land? Follow these instructions and use the map to find out.
Take off from Newfoundland. Travel 2 spaces east. Move 1 space north. Fly east 2 spaces and land safely on the island in the lower left side of that space. Where are you?
ANSWER: Ireland.
Help this plane find its way through the stormy sky.
Amelia wanted to be the first person to fly around the world. In 1937, she took off from Oakland, California.
Near the end of her journey, all contact was lost and Amelia Earhart was never heard from again. Some say she crashed. Others think she landed on a South Pacific island and stayed there the rest of her life.
The story of her disappearance remains a mystery. But it is the story of her life that inspires others to great courage. She blazed new trails in flying, shaping advancements in flight that we enjoy today.
Amelia Earhart and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt once left a dinner party and took a night flight above Washington, D.C. – in their evening gowns!
Find something in todayʼs newspaper that rhymes with each of these airplane parts:
Have you ever noticed that the wings of birds and planes are curved?
Because of the curve, air rushing over the top of the wing has farther to go than the air under the wing, so it moves faster. Faster-moving air has a lower pressure, so the wing is lifted by the higher air pressure below.
© 2014 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics
A curved wing is called an airfoil.
Statewide symposium on voting, elections planned
California Secretary of State’s Office
SACRAMENTO — The California Secretary of State’s O ce recently announced its inaugural Research symposium on the topic of voting and elections in California. Secretary of State, Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., is bringing together scholars and researchers to discuss issues shaping the future of democracy in the state.
The symposium takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26, at the Secretary of State O ce, 1500 11th St. in Sacramento.
The symposium will feature keynote insights from Weber, along with multiple data research presentations from leading experts in the field of elections and voting rights.
“This symposium represents a significant step in our ongoing
Donation Continued from A1
highly-vied for piece, according to Ellenburg, who explained all had been sold out save a small batch that had just been discovered and sent to the Placerville gallery; they are valued at around $30,000 each.
The final donation from the gallery is also the most notable — a recreation of Kinkade’s final work as it looked on his easel, including blotches of paint on the board behind the canvas, the day of his death in 2012. The painting shows a park bench in springtime, surrounded by tall grasses and flowers basking in rays from the sun. The recreation toured between all of the Kinkade
Elections Continued from A1
The report also gave its own insight on how the Elections Department can ensure its ongoing election integrity. It notes California certified voting equipment and procedures “may introduce vulnerabilities and a lack of transparency into the election process,” to which the board responded that all technology has potential to be vulnerable and that certain processes are in place to make sure problems are mitigated.
The board also disagreed with the report’s finding that the Elections Department could do more to alleviate public concerns about election integrity through increased communication, stating the department does extensive outreach through town halls, hosts tours of its department, sends email updates and uses social media frequently.
commitment to transparent, secure, and accessible elections in California,” said Weber. “By bringing together diverse perspectives and cutting-edge research, we aim to foster innovative solutions to the challenges facing our democratic processes.”
Topics to be covered include trends in voter participation and engagement.
The event is open to researchers, policymakers, election o cials and members of the public interested in the future of California’s electoral system.
For more information and to register for in-person or online attendance, visit:
• In-person: eventbrite.com/e/ research-symposium-on-californiaelections-tickets-945149817547
• Online: eventbrite.com/e/researchsymposium-on-california-electionsonline-tickets-976461431427
galleries, according to Ellenburg, and will now stay on display in Placerville.
Though the El Dorado Gold building is open and available to host private functions, it is not expected to be operational as a walk-in museum experience for at least another year, according to board member Kris Payne.
“One of our biggest interests is in being unique and presenting things from the community you wouldn’t find anywhere else,” Payne said. “This donation is wonderful and is exactly what we’re looking for.”
The board found that to be “unreasonable” due to the Elections sta being “trusted employees” performing their work with high integrity, which the Grand Jury took note of in its own report.
“The three sta members with access to the tabulation room are the registrar, assistant registrar and the department systems analyst,” reads the response. “Their requiring two people at all times would limit their ability to perform their work in a room already monitored by cameras, which are livestreamed during the election.”
The Elections Department will host a town hall on election security at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28, at 3883 Ponderosa Road in Shingle Springs.
The board did agree that a periodic newsletter to acknowledge and address public concerns should be published. O’Neill said his department would follow up on the recommendation.
COMICS
The Elections Department is hosting a town hall on election security at its Ponderosa Road location Aug. 28 at 6 p.m., which will go until there are no questions left, according to O’Neill.
The board did concur that video surveillance does not cover all ballot drop boxes, which will be addressed prior to the November 2024 election, according to the written response.
In responding to the Grand Jury’s recommendations, the board said voting tabulation systems could not be electronically isolated to improve security due to that being a “costly solution which will not provide additional security outside of mitigating procedures currently approved by election security and the Secretary of State’s O ce.”
The report also recommended the department look into the feasibility of streaming drop box video surveillance cameras online for ad hoc public monitoring, which the board and Election’s sta found unreasonable due to “hostility toward the use of ballot drop boxes.” Streaming video could also erode the constitutionally protected privacy of voting, leaders challenged.
Additionally, the report recommended the department change its security procedures to “require a minimum of two people present when accessing the vote tabulation rooms and systems.”
Also discussed during the Tuesday meeting was the Elections Department’s role in addressing a candidate’s eligibility through residency and professional certifications. Both County Counsel David Livingston and O’Neill described this role as “ministerial” in that while elections o cials ensure documents supporting a candidate’s claims for eligibility are checked to ensure they meet the requirements, no further investigations are conducted by the department. A writ can be requested to the courts if a candidate’s eligibility comes into question.
“All we can really do is educate,” O’Neill said. “(We say) ‘Here is what the law says and here is what we try to follow,’ but we do not turn around and do any investigations into it.
“It’s a great position for us to be in because we have to stay nonpartisan in everything and we cannot get invested or involved in the outcome of any measure or contest, so the court gives us that freedom,” he continued. “If we are investigative or punitive and we can go after stu , it makes us invested in one side or the other and we don’t want to be in that position.”
The supervisors unanimously approved the response.
The entirety of the 2023-24 Grand Jury report and all responses can be found online at eldoradocounty. ca.gov/Public-Safety-Justice/SafetyJustice/Grand-Jury/Reports-andResponses.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). This is a knowledge you pos-
sesses deep inside yourself -- intention is power, especially when that intention is to elevate those around you. You’ll be galvanized by a beautiful idea and you’ll move forward.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You don’t need help, but it’s better to have it than not, so accept people’s o ers. What you get more than help is an insight into people’s styles of interacting and a sense of where to take your relationship from here.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Even when you’re pretty sure you know the winning answer, you’ll still bene t from asking friends for their thoughts and input. If nothing else, it gives you a deeper understanding of the uniqueness of your perspective.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). It may feel as though hours spent networking are stealing from your productive time, but it really is more important to connect. Meeting new people will always be more valuable. You’ll be paid back in ways you currently can’t imagine.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). It’s not what happens but what you think about it that makes the big di erence in your experience. You’ll have ideas that give you a sense of hope and expansion. Feeling better about your circumstances just might free you from them.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). It’s impossible to teach those who think they know it all already. That’s like trying to park in a space that already has a car in it. This is why it will bene t you to forget what you know and go in with
an open mind and naive eyes.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). People have short attention spans today and will respond only to the most memorable part of an interaction. Let your purpose cut through the noise. In a world full of chatter, brevity is your greatest ally. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You feel duty-bound to help, include and support. Doing so not only solves problems for others, it forti es your soul. Your quiet strength and thoughtful presence will communicate something profound.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). There’s nothing fancy about how you get there. Tenacity is the answer. Don’t give up. Don’t stop. Don’t veer from the path. Keep it pushing, eyes ahead, one foot in front of the other. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’ll make comments out of the blue that strike a resonance in others. You will also randomly choose conversational topics that are coincidentally what is on the mind, heart and schedule of another person.
■ SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin
■ SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis
SUDOKU
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
Aug. 21
Snowline Health
Dementia Connection
hosts Living Well with Dementia Caregiver Support Group and Activity Enrichment Group for People with Memory Loss, 1:30-3 p.m. at Snowline Health 6520 Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs. This free, in person and online group o ers support to caregivers and family members who are caring for or have a loved one with dementia.
Are you nervous about the upcoming re season?
Have questions about home hardening and creating defensible space? Join the Camino Fire Safe Council at 6:30 p.m. at the Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit headquarters, 2840 Mt. Danaher Road in Camino.
Try line dancing at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 6:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Whose Live Anyway? with cast members Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Je B. Davis and Joel Murray will leave you laughing at the Harris Center.
The show is 90 minutes of hilarious improvised comedy and song all based on audience suggestions, so bring your ideas and you might be asked to join the cast onstage! Show begins at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
The Illeagles will perform at 7:30 p.m. at Valhalla Tahoe. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Aug. 22
Snowline Health
Dementia Connection hosts the Gilmore Senior Center Caregiver Support Group, 10:30 a.m. to noon, 990 Lassen Lane in El Dorado Hills. This free, in person and online group o ers support to caregivers and family members who are caring for or have a loved one with dementia. Call (530) 6216820 if respite care is needed for a caregiver to attend this group.
The Shingle SpringsCameron Park Chamber of Commerce will hold a Networking Luncheon from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Red Hawk Casino’s Koto Bu et. The event is sponsored by the El Dorado County Republican Party and will feature El Dorado County Auditor/ Controller Joe Harn as guest speaker.
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce hosts a mixer at Sierra Vista Winery in the Pleasant Valley area, 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information visit business. eldoradocounty.org/events.
Crystal Basin Cellars in Camino hosts After Five, a barbecue trip tip dinner with wine and music by Patrick Walsh, 5:30-8:30 p.m. RSVP required. Visit crystalbasin. com or email rsvp@ crystalbasin.com.
El Dorado Hills Town Center will be rockin’ with a free concert, 7-9 p.m., featuring Peace Frog. Visit EDHTownCenter.com for all the details.
Enjoy Comedy Night at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Crocker Art Museum presents Journeys of Jazz:
■ New exhibit gives guests a glimpse
Jordan Hyatt-Miller Arts and Culture El Dorado
Specters on Glass: Studio Portraiture in Early 20th c. Placerville is Arts and Culture
El Dorado’s latest exhibition at Switchboard Gallery. There will be an opening reception in the gallery, 525 Main St., 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 22. The exhibit runs through Sunday, Oct. 6.
A collaboration between Arts and Culture El Dorado, the El Dorado County Historical Museum and the Placerville News Company, Specters on Glass features portraits taken at a photography studio on Main Street Placerville in the early 20th century.
The collection is a broad sampling of local citizenry captured on glass dry plate negatives and sits firmly at the intersection of histories of place and histories of technology.
The portraits in this exhibition are
Iinto history
drawn from a trove of thousands of images captured by photographer George W. Potter of the City Photograph Gallery circa 1905. The glass plate negatives were discovered in the upper stories of the Inch Building on Placerville’s Main Street by the late George Du ey, a member of the Meader family. The Meader family has owned the Placerville News Company, located on the ground floor of the Inch Building, for four generations.
After discovering the photographs, Du ey donated them to the El Dorado Historical Museum, which has stewarded the collection for the last 30 years. Specters on Glass will be the first public exhibition of these images.
“The El Dorado County Historical Museum’s historical photograph collection numbers over 27,000 and includes images of people, places and ■ See SPECTERS, page B7
Emerald Pools
’ve never written about Emerald Pools because it isn’t clearly marked and can be very dangerous due to slippery granite and high-water levels in spring that are extremely cold. Everyone seems to have found it so it’s not a secret. I advise checking out Emerald Pools
in August when the snowmelt has run o , but the pools are still full and inviting.
Emerald Pools are in the South Yuba River o Bowman Lake Road. Take the turno of Highway 20 and drive down to the bridge over the South Yuba River. Parking is limited and no fees are collected. The easiest access is upriver left, via the
Illuminating Placerville’s past
Pioneer Trail, but you get to the small narrow slot canyon upriver of the bridge on the right behind the green gate. If you have any trepidation about your footing, take the trail on the left of the bridge facing upriver. This is a beautiful, forested trail. You will walk right up to the river this way only a quarter mile in. For the more adventurous, take the trail behind the green gate just before the bridge and hike in a similar quarter mile or
Meader Mrs. J. [Boy]
Sutton J.W. [Dog]
Mary West Outdoor columnist
Photo by Mary West The Emerald Pools are very popular with hikers, swimmers and
El Dorado Hills church enjoys its own revival
Sel Richard Mountain Democrat correspondent
On the brink of closure, a small church breathes new life as it transitions into a fresh format. After having endured declining membership from pandemic shutdowns, the resignation of its head pastor and ongoing financial struggles, SunHills Church of El Dorado Hills is o cially reopening as a North Coast campus, a Bible teaching church that spans multiple locations in Southern California as well as Ohio, Hawaii, Arizona and even Los Barriles, Mexico.
Six months earlier, as SunHills pastor Erich Grunder and his sta considered the prospect of putting the building on the market, the idea of a merger with another church was broached.
“I remember we had a meeting between the elders and the board of directors,” shared Rich Iacovetta, former SunHills elder who now leads one of the North Coast Life Groups.
“There was a lot of hope but not a lot of promise necessarily.”
Later that day, Grunder received a call from a couple who previously attended SunHills and now lived in Folsom. They had been watching North
Coast church services in their home, but their group had grown to almost 100 people watching in multiple homes. They were looking for a building and a pastor.
“Wow, this could be a godsend,” Iacovetta remembered thinking. The sta decided to explore the possibility. North Coast Church not only sent Chris Brown, North Coast’s main teaching pastor, and his sta to meet SunHills church members, but
also donated funds to remodel the SunHills building.
During a trial period, SunHills operated as a North Coast campus in which SunHills held its own live worship services. The only segment that is livestreamed virtually from Vista, California, is the teaching sermon.
The church ultimately voted unanimously to become North Coast Church. “It’s just amazing how God brought it all together,”
“The really cool thing is that everyone has merged so perfectly,” Iacovetta continued.
“Right o the bat, the Folsom people started volunteering and everyone got along. This church went from the brink of closing its doors for good to not just getting a second life, but starting to thrive again in the community.”
Along with his wife of 18 years and three kids in middle school,
Grunder said it has been his privilege serving as pastor for SunHills since 2012. “It has been such a treat to be part of everything that we see God doing through this church and community,” he said. “Over the years, a lot of the kids who grew up here are now serving on sta and leading ministries of their own.”
Grunder points out that the smaller building gives the congregation a small church feel but North
BETWEEN THE COVERS
‘River of Light’ News release
Mumblers Press announces the publication of “River of Light,” a novel by former Mountain Democrat reporter and columnist Wendy Schultz. Set in Placerville and Northern Nevada, “River of Light” is a coming-of-age book with a paranormal twist.
Nothing about Fresno Bakersfield Ingersoll’s life is normal: she has a horrible name, a flaky mother who has moved her children every one of Fresno’s 10 years and a secret ability to hear babies before they are born.
Coast brings big church resources and experience.
“We are centered on scriptural teachings, Bible-centered teaching, building a loving community and then changing the world,” Grunder said, mentioning a pet project which will have the entire church outside in local areas for a weekend. “There’s a huge emphasis on outreach and serving our community.” The current congregation hails from El Dorado Hills, Folsom and as far out as Granite Bay, Rocklin, Placerville and Orangevale.
The El Dorado Hills location is North Coast Church’s 10th campus and the only one in Northern California. A grand reopening will be held on Aug. 25. A standard 10 a.m. Sunday service will be held followed by a luncheon where prospective members can meet sta and volunteers while enjoying family friendly games.
“It’s a place to make long-time friends, to grow deep in our relationship with God and be challenged to go into the world and make a di erence,” said Grunder.
North Coast Church is located in the El Dorado Hills Business Park at 1001 Suncast Lane.
“… an original, charming, memorable page-turner, which will leave you feeling tender-hearted and full of hope.”
— Author Tarn Wilson
Years later, Fresno, now Clare, is living the normal life of her dreams as a college student at University of Nevada, Reno. But when her long-absent father resurfaces, her mother shares a story of shame and betrayal and her college roommate becomes pregnant and desperately needs the help of Clare’s baby radar, nothing is normal any more.
Schultz told the Mountain Democrat “River of Light” emerged during a case of writer’s block.
“I had finished writing a second book and was 100 pages into my third when I got stuck,” she shared. “I needed to write something a little lighter and a character named Fresno Bakersfield Ingersoll sounded like it could be fun.
“I am a characterdriven writer,” Schultz added. “I love getting into the heads of my characters and putting them in di erent situations to see what happens.”
“Wendy Schultz’s River of Light is an
enchanting comingof-age story about a girl who struggles with her identity and strives to live a healthy, normal life despite her disappointing family issues. … [A] sensational, magical tale that merges some harsh truths with the small, beautiful gifts of life,” a five-star review reads.
“It seems so real that I initially believed the book was a memoir,” adds Pennell Paugh, East County Magazine.
“… an original, charming, memorable page-turner, which will leave you feeling tender-hearted and full of hope,” notes Tarn Wilson, author “The Slow Farm” and “In Praise of Inadequate Gifts.”
“River of Light” is available in both digital and print versions at Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble.com and can be ordered by independent bookstores through Ingram. Further information about “River of Light” or any other books published by Mumblers Press can be found at mumblerspress.com. Schultz was a news reporter for the Mountain Democrat for 10 years and the awardwinning columnist of “Something to Think About.” She is the author of “In the Pockets of Dreams” and can be found on Facebook at WendySchultzauthor or at the website, WendySchultz.net.
marveled Iacovetta.
Photo by Sel Richard
North Coast Church staff are ready to serve the community as part of a reinvigorated church. From left are TJ Lind, Stacey Rogers, pastor Erich Grunder, Mark Lewis, Stefanie Kennedy and Jake Lara.
firsthand the way farm animals behave when they are not expected to be used for milk, meat, clothing, or labor. We allow the animals living within our gates to simply be; and, as a result, connect to one another and humans with an awe-inspiring sense of calm
HartSong Ranch is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization. 100% of donations go to the best possible care of the sanctuary animals, the pups rescued via our two Dog Rescue Programs, and future rescue efforts. This is made possible only through the generous support of our caring donors. Please consider donating today to help HartSong continue its mission.
Feeding Little, Blind Ciara
"Proof" A play by David Auburn at The Stage @ 2pm / $25 "Proof" Written by David Auburn. Directed by Anthony D'Juan. Now Showing at The Stage at Burke Junction! August 3rd- September 1st The Stage at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. stageatburke@gmail.com
Azere Wilson: Summer Of Music SF @ 2pm Cary Lane, 1615 Haight St, San Francisco
2pm A
program, Freedom Summer
of Voting Rights will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, at the Dona Benicia Room at the Benicia Public Library, 150 East L Street in Benicia. Benicia Public Library, 150 East L Street, Benicia. bvaauw@gmail.com, 707-7464343
"Proof" A play by David Auburn at The Stage @ 2pm / $25 "Proof" Written by David Auburn. Directed by Anthony D'Juan. Now Showing at The Stage at Burke Junction! August 3rd- September 1st The Stage at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. stageatburke@gmail.com
Michael Leonard Foundation Music + Awareness Concert @ 2pm / $20 Join us Saturday, August 24th, 2024 for our next Michael Leonardi Foundation Music + Awareness event hosted at Napa Yard from 25 pm, featuring The Framers and Weekend Youth! Napa YardOxbow Gardens, 585 1st Street, Napa. mona@michaelleonardifoun dation.org, 707-815-7744
Festicrawl San Francisco @ 4pm / $35 Get Ready for Festicrawl: San Francisco's Ultimate Music Festi‐val Pub Crawl! Mayes Oyster House, 1233 Polk Street, San Fran‐cisco. info@crawlsf.com, 415-8521027
CaringtonSwing: Carington Swing Trio @ 6pm Scopo Divino, 2800 California St #101, San Francisco
"Proof" A play by David Auburn at The Stage @ 7pm / $25 "Proof" Written by David Auburn. Directed by Anthony D'Juan. Now Showing at The Stage at Burke Junction! August 3rd- September 1st The Stage at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. stageatburke@gmail.com
Aireene Espiritu Music: Fundraiser for Gaza w/ Edgar Allen Paul and The Sampaguitas @ 7pm Make-Out Room, 3225 22nd St, San Francisco DJ Keyz @ 8pm Old Ironsides, 1901 10th St, Sacra‐mento
Phil John‐son and Roadside Attraction Comedy and Music @ 8:30pm True Symmetry Brewing Company, 315 Marina Center, Suisun Club 90s Presents Brat Night 18+ @ 9pm / $15 Ace of Spades, Sacramento
Re�ecting Lenses: Twenty Years of Photography at the Gorman Museum @ 12pm This exhibition presents photo‐graphic artworks by more than two dozen Indigenous artists from North America, Aotearoa, and Aus‐tralia. Gorman Museum of Native American Art, 181 Old Davis Road, Davis. 530-752-6567
Banda los recoditos @ 2pm Solano County Fair Associa‐tion, 900 Fairgrounds Dr, Vallejo
Ghost Town Messengers @ OTRA @ 3:30pm Otra, 682 Haight St, San Francisco
GamperDrums: Ghost Town Messengers at OTRA! @ 3:30pm Otra (Mexican Restaurant), 682 Haight St, San Francisco
Tarnish @ 6:45pm Gold�eld Trading Post Sacra‐mento, 1630 J St, Sacramento
Balu Brigada @ 8pm Golden 1 Center, 500 David J Stern Walk, Sacramento
Wick @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Jenny Haniver/ Wick/ Such Sweet Ruckus @ 8pm / $14.60 Neck of the Woods, San Francisco
Rotary Club of Davis Weekly Lunch & Program @ 12pm See website for details. ro‐taryclubofdavis.com Davis Com‐munity Church, 421 D Street, Davis. teainsworth@gmail.com
Private Bike LessonMountain Biking or Learn to Ride - Coach Joe @ 3:30pm / $125 Heather Farm Park, 301 N San Car‐los Dr, Walnut Creek. 415-6543244
San Francisco Board of Supervisors, District 9 Candidate Forum (HYBRID) @ 6pm / Free Candidates for the Board of Su‐pervisors, District 9 will answer questions important to your com‐munity. Attend in person or online. City College of San FranciscoMission Center, 1125 Valencia Street, San Francisco. forums@ lwvsf.org, 415-989-8683
Orbit Culture @ 6:30pm / $22.50 Ace of Spades, Sacra‐mento
Orbit Culture @ 6:30pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento
Thrown Into Exile @ 7pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento
Dale Crover @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco
Dale Crover @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia Street, San Francisco
twen @ 8pm Bottom Of the Hill, 1233 17th St, San Francisco
Drew Zingg @ 6pm Boom Boom Room, 1601 Fillmore St, San Francisco
GamperDrums @ 6pm Boom Boom Room, 1601 Fillmore St, San Francisco
Sheppard @ 7pm The Starlet Room, 2708 J St, Sacramento
Ashley Mehta @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco
Hamzaa @ 8pm The Rink Studios, 1031 Del Paso Blvd, Sacramento The Living Tombstone @ 8pm August Hall, 420 Mason St, San Francisco
Jonah Marais @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco
Saturday Aug 24th
Rotary Rock'N Ryythm VFW Bene�t Concert @ 6:30am / $55 Solano Community College, 4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fair�eld. cathyritch504@gmail.com, 707803-3485
kittens (furry healers) led by a certi�ed Reiki practitioner. KitTea Cat Lounge, 1266 Valencia Street, San Francisco. support@kit teasf.com, 415-325-5510 "Proof" A play by David Auburn at The Stage @ 7pm / $25 "Proof" Written by David Auburn. Directed by Anthony D'Juan. Now Showing at The Stage at Burke Junction! August 3rd- September 1st The Stage at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. stageatburke@gmail.com
Atlas @ 7:30pm / Free Join Insight Chamber Players Leah Froyd and Paul Kim for an evening of classical music about the world. Filled to the brim with character, each short piece will sweep you away to a new destination. Amador Club, 550 Montgomery Street, San Francisco. admin@insightcham ber.com Gems
Jazz Upstairs at the B will perform at The Sofia in Sacramento at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
Aug. 23
Vitalant will hold a Placerville Cinema blood drive, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 337 Placerville Drive. Make an appointment at donors. vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM553 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.
MIXUP Band will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.
Findleton Estate and Vineyard in Camino hosts a movie under the stars. See “Jumanji,” starring Robin Williams, with dinner available from Fatty-n-Fits Food Truck plus Findleton wines. Event starts at 6 p.m. and the movie begins at dark. Admission is free.
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a free concert at Community Park, 7-9:30 p.m., featuring Garratt Wilkin & The Parrotheads – a celebration of Jimmy Buffet. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
Moxie Barker with Blu Egyptian and Jazze will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Dry Diggings Camping & Music Festival takes place Aug. 23-25 at the Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn. For tickets and more information visit drydiggingsfest.com.
Aug. 24
Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians presents Big Time 2024 on Aug. 24 & 25 with California traditional dancers, jewelry, crafts, food eveners, a walnut dice tournament and more at the Shingle Springs Rancheria, 5281 Honpie Road in Placerville. For more information call (916) 468-2730.
UCCE Master Gardeners host Fall & Winter Veggies, 9 a.m. to noon at the Placerville Library, 345 Fair Lane. Would you like to continue to harvest luscious, home-grown vegetables even after the heat of summer subsides? If so, now is the time to plant for a fall and winter harvest. Learn how to grow a successful winter vegetable garden from UC Master Gardener Zack Dowell. Register at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=42973.
Shadow Ranch Vineyard in the Fair Play area hosts Yoga in the Vines at 10 a.m. For more information visit shadowranch.com/Events. Narrow Gate Vineyards in the Pleasant Valley area hosts Play the game, a fun, educational, sensory experience and blind wine tasting game, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A French-cafe inspired light lunch will be served in the cellar. For more information call (530) 644-6201 or email wine@narrowgatevineyards.com.
Miraflores Winery, 2120 Four Springs Trail in the Pleasant Valley area, is serving its acclaimed Pairings Lunches on the Vineyard Terrace on Saturdays and Sundays with seatings from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2-4 p.m. On Aug. 24 & 25 chef Simona Salvatori is preparing a That’s Amore meal. Call (530) 647-8505 or email info@mirafloreswinery.com to make a reservation.
Join El Dorado County Ag in the Classroom for 20 Mile Taste at Rainbow 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 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.
Drytown Smugglers will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music. Tom Rigney, the fiery, electrifying violinist/composer, returns to David Girard Vineyards in the Gold Hill area. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Music begins at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit davidgirardvineyards.com.
Delfino Farms in Camino presents Folk on the Farm, 6-10 p.m., with Town Mountain. For more information visit delfinofarms.com/
folkonthefarm.
Mediterranean Vineyards in the Fair Play area hosts Music in the Vines with The Band Unleashed. RSVP by calling (530) 240-8386 or email info@medivineyards.com.
Fleetwood Mask, the only tribute in America with Mick Fleetwood’s endorsement, will perform at the Harris Center at 7:30 p.m.. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888. Join Fairytale Town for the annual Tales & Ales Brewfest Fundraiser from 5-9 p.m. Local craft breweries, cideries and wineries will be on-site pouring unlimited tastes of their beverages. For more information visit fairytaletown.org.
Now
The Stage at Burke Junction presents “Proof,” a play by David Auburn. The show will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 1. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.
Broadway At Music Circus presents “Jersey Boys” at the UC Davis Health Pavilion in Sacramento through Sept. 1. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.
Gold Bug Park & Mine in Placerville is open seven days a week, weather permitting, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit goldbugpark.org.
Maggie’s House Cleaning
Available for weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, & one time cleaning. Reliable, honest, and has over 20 years of experience.
margaritalherrera@icloud.com
Licensed Insured
GROW FOR IT!
Why do
I
live in different plant hardiness zones?
At your local garden center, you’ve found several varieties of a lovely plant called coral bells, Heuchera spp., that you just must have for that partly sunny spot in your Placerville yard. The coral bells plant from one grower says it is appropriate for Plant Hardiness Zone 7, while the same coral bells from another grower says Zone 9a. What’s up with that?
Becky Rounds
UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County
Most gardening books, catalogs and seed packets refer to plant hardiness zones, climate zones or growing zones. Temperature hardiness climate zones are based on normally expected high and low temperatures and serve as guides to help you know which plants will grow where you live.
There are two entities that determine the plant hardiness zones appearing on your plant tags and seed packets: The United States Department of Agriculture and the Sunset Western Garden Book. Unfortunately, these two entities use different criteria and numbering systems. The USDA divides the country into 13 zones, while Sunset divides the Western states into 24 zones.
Last year, the USDA updated its Plant Hardiness Zone Map to contain more accurate, detailed information than prior versions. The zones are based on 30-years averages of the lowest annual winter temperatures. You can access the map at planthardiness.ars.usda.gov and type in your ZIP code to determine the USDA zone for your area.
Many gardeners prefer to use the Sunset zones as a guide since they factor in not only winter minimum temperatures, but also summer highs, lengths of growing seasons and rainfall patterns. Unfortunately, the Sunset website is not as user friendly as the USDA’s and tends to focus on Sunset branded plants. Alternatively, you could consult a copy of the Sunset Western Garden Book, last published in 2012, at your local library or call the Master Gardener office for assistance. Used copies of the book
is a quick Plant Hardiness Zone guide for various communities in El Dorado County:
• El Dorado Hills — USDA Zone 9b/Sunset Zone 9
• Cameron Park, Rescue, Lotus — USDA Zone 9a/Sunset Zone 7
• Placerville, Camino — USDA Zone 9a/ Sunset Zone 7
• Pollock Pines — USDA Zone 9a/Sunset Zone 1a
• Georgetown, Garden Valley — USDA Zone 9a/Sunset Zone 7
• Somerset, Fair Play — USDA Zone 9a/Sunset Zone 7
Of course, temperature is not the only factor in figuring out whether a plant will survive in your garden. Soil types, rainfall, day length, wind and humidity also play their roles. Even within a city, a street or a spot protected by a warm wall in your own garden, there may be microclimates that affect how plants grow. The zones are only a guide and a good starting point, but you still need to determine for yourself what will and won’t work in your garden. Kowing your hardiness zone, and buying plants that are listed within that zone, will help in making your garden a success. 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_Classe s/?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.
so. The red streaked rocks are stunning and the pines standing tall along the shore of the Emerald Pools are spectacular.
The Emerald Pools area is very popular with hikers, swimmers, and rock climbers alike, so don’t expect to have the pools to yourself. Go early and during the week when students are back in school for the least impact. This is a short trail but that’s what you are looking for in August when temps can be in the 90s even at this elevation above 5,500 feet.
Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the
favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the
of the 2017 and 2019
for
recipient
Craft Award
Best Outdoor Column
the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
Photo by Mary West
Beautiful flowers and wildlife are spotted near Emerald Pools.
Courtesy map
Plant hardiness zones are a good starting point for gardeners trying to figure out what plants will grow best in their outdoor spaces.
events in El Dorado County’s history,” explained El Dorado Historical Museum Administrator Mary Cory. “By focusing on this particular collection, we are able to see the people who populated Placerville and the surrounding areas over 100 years ago, and maybe get a glimpse into what life might have been like.”
The portraits in Specters on Glass offer a rare perspective of Placerville’s early history. Many of the images depict loving relationships between friends, family members and even pets. Some of the photographs display incredible tenderness, while others are stiff and inscrutable, but they all work together to allow the viewer to acquaint themselves with those who came before, to feel as if they are personally interacting with a specter from Placerville’s past.
“I’m really enamored of all the images we see in this collection,” said curator Marya Osucha. “These images feel very intimate. They feature people in an interior setting, many without the accouterments they would wear on the street, together with their family members; it feels even more revealing than if we
had a photo of them standing in front of
their house or visiting a shop on Main Street.”
Arts and Culture El Dorado is a catalyst for good works throughout the region, serving as the state-local partner to the California Arts Council and providing targeted programs and services. It also
curates a vibrant gallery exhibition series and focuses on initiatives that support and sustain the region’s cultural life. Founded in 1984 as El Dorado Arts Council, the organization offers programs for
Public Notices
95682 This business is conducted by Joint Venture The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 07/24/2024 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Nickole Johnson NICKOLE JOHNSON, GENERAL PARTNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/24/2024 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE
WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 13510
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2024-0700
The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MOUNTAINGIRL MYSTERIES , located at 2642 Henderson St., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150/Mailing Address: PO Box 550145, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96155 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Jennifer Quashnick,
NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
