Mountain Democrat, Monday, September 18, 2023

Cougars Celebrate

brought their school spirit to Main Street Placerville Thursday evening. Spectators camped on the curbs to see the band, cheerleaders, athletes and royalty during the Homecoming Parade. Above, the Cougars cheer squad makes its way down the road, leading everyone in a cheer to support the home team. At right, a member of the EDHS Homecoming Royalty gets a ride on a Corvette during the parade. See more photos on A6.

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

■ See MAGNUM, page A2

Staff, supes hash out permitting woes in Grand Jury response

Eric Jaramishian

Staff witer

El Dorado County’s 2022-23 Grand Jury Report covered several issues but only one became a topic discussed among the Board of Supervisors and Planning and Building Department sta last Tuesday — the permit process and its delays.

The Grand Jury investigated the permit

process and procedures, finding inadequacies that supervisors agreed with — at least in part. The board’s o cial response to the report notes a customer satisfaction survey is available to residents and any complaints are provided to necessary parties involved.

Getting into finer details, county o cials stress they continue to explore accessibility of the TRAKiT system used in Planning and

Building. The program automates management of a project’s development, permitting and code compliance and is available to the public.

In its summary the Grand Jury report states, “The TRAKiT software continues to contribute to the delays in the permitting process due to the fact that TRAKiT was not successfully implemented. Building Services had to create and is still using manual workarounds to

keep the system operational. Additional dedicated resources from the EDC Information Technologies Department continue to be deployed to address ongoing deficiencies in the software.” Regarding the report’s recommendation to expand the simple permit program to allow homeowners to request and pay for the permits online, the county maintains in its response that a contractor’s license

number is required for verification due to California Health and Safety codes.

The supervisors did recognize permitting delay issues during its discussion at the Sept. 12 meeting, where they voted to change their response to modify language to set timelines for processing permits by permit type and to modify the ombudsman title, a person meant to assist customers through the process

and answer questions about the status of their projects.

“The biggest complaint I hear is how long it takes for things to get processed,” said District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl. “In the past, my district has referred people to the ombudsman to get answers on how best to navigate things and we have gotten, to a certain degree, non-answers

■ See PERMITTING page A5

Courtesy photo

Magnum is all smiles as he poses with his new, custom fire hat. His wish to be a firefighter comes true next month.

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

Gene B. Bryant

October 27, 1940 – August 29, 2023

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gene B. Bryant. After a long battle with cancer, Gene passed away with his wife at his side on August 29, 2023, at the age of 82.

Gene was born on October

27, 1940 in Tucumcari, NM to C.B. and Ella Mae Bryant. Gene grew up in California, where he met his one and only sweetheart, Connie Williams. Following their marriage in 1958, Gene joined the United States Air Force. He served his country with honor and dedication during the Vietnam War, a testament of his commitment to his country.

Following his Air Force service, Gene joined the El Dorado County Sheri ’s Department in South Lake Tahoe, CA. He dedicated his entire career to law enforcement. After 28 years of service he retired as a Sergeant.

Gene and Connie traveled the next 15 years, visiting every state in the union, fulfilling every dream on their bucket list. They then settled in Yuma, AZ, enjoying many new friends and activities. In 2015 they moved to Green Valley, AZ.

Gene enjoyed the art of wood carving. He could always be found on the back porch working on his latest project. He loved gifting his family and friends with a special hand carved walking stick, each a representation of special times and places enjoyed together. He loved rockhounding and making the most beautiful jewelry for his family. He was also a prolific journal writer, documenting his life from an early age.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents C.B. and Ella Mae Bryant and his beloved big brother Conrad. He is survived by his loving wife Connie, his daughters Brenda Hassler (Mike), Rebecca Dotson (Tommy) and Kathy; sister Louise Rogers (Walter); 7 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Gene also leaves behind many lifelong friends who enriched his life with their love and friendship.

Gene will be laid to rest with full military honors at Prescott National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Gene requested donations be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Gene, you are loved beyond words & missed beyond measure. Godspeed.

Wilma Lou Bryant

March 17, 1926 – July 28, 2023

Wilma Lou Bryant passed away peacefully on July 28, 2023 with her daughter-inlaw, Pam Bryant, by her side. She was born March 17th, 1926 to Charles and Mattie Soehner in Wray, Colorado. Lou loved giving back to her community in Placerville, California, where she and her late husband, Warren, lived for over 40 years. She was very empathetic to animals and spent many hours volunteering at the local animal shelter. Lou is survived by her son, Stan Bryant and daughter-in-laws, Pam and SelenaOksun Bryant; her 7 grandchildren: Larnie, Todd, David, Nicholas, Tracy, Rebecca and Matt; 11 great-grandchildren: Julia, Jessica, Jaden, Logan, Brooklyn, Kayla, Harley, Kaidyn, Franklin, Scarlett, and her namesake, Violet Lee Lou; and 3 greatgreat grandchildren: Sophia, Cruz, and Arturo. She was preceded in death by her son, Chad Bryant and husband of 55 years, Warren Bryant. Lou lived a beautiful life full of adventure; and traveled to many countries over her lifetime, even living in Turkey for many years. The greatest joy of her life was becoming a stepmother to her sons, Chad and Stan, and meeting the love of her life, Warren, after a blind date set-up by his mother. Nothing could compare to a life filled with so much love.

Stanley Ernest Geel

January 13, 1934 – August 31, 2023

Stanley began his life’s journey in Butterworth, South Africa. Stan earned his B.S. degree in Animal Science at KwaZuluNatal University. After teaching Animal Husbandry at Cedara Agricultural College he set out to see the world. His first stop was Australia where he worked as a Jackaroo on a Cattle Station and then onto a biology teaching and rugby coaching position at the Armidale School. His next stop was New Zealand where he held a position at the Roakura Research Centre. He then received a Masters Degree in Animal Science at Oregon State University where his research interest was sparked. His professors in Oregon encouraged him to seek at doctorate degree at UC Berkeley where he became interested in neuro-endocrinology research. Upon his completion of his doctorate the National Institutes of Health acknowledged his research e orts with a Career Development Award. Stan took his Award to the University of California, Davis Medical School where he became a Professor in the Neurology Department. At UCD he pursued medical research receiving a number of NIH research grants.

At mid-life he pursued a di erent field of study attending the Mayo Clinic where he began his studies in Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine. After private practice he returned to academic life and became a Professor and Director of the Physical Therapy Program at the University of New Mexico Medical School. Several years later he became a Professor and founding Director of the new Physical Therapy Program at California State University Sacramento. Stan leaves behind 40 peer-reviewed research publications including several book contributions.

In addition to his academic pursuits Stan was a passionate rugby player playing Scrum Half for 24 years in South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, founded the Oregon State Rugby Club and played for Cal. After rugby he continued his pursuit of physical fitness as he and his wife Joan taught Senior Fitness classes throughout El Dorado County for 13 years.

Upon his academic retirement Stan achieved his life-long dream of having his own farm. He grew apples, grapes and blueberries on his beloved Sun Mountain Farm in Apple Hill where he worked in the field until age 85.

Stan enjoyed a full life. He strived for excellence in all of his pursuits whether it was to grow the perfect apple or score a try for Cal against Stanford.

He leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Joan; his sister Dorothy Mallett of South Africa, daughter Jill Melendy Wesselkamper, son-in-law Je Wesselkamper, grandchildren Ethan and Mia Wesselkamper and several much loved nieces and nephews in South Africa and Europe.

Man found hanging near Tahoe bank

Ashleigh

Goodwin

Tahoe Daily Tribune

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — A 26-year-old man was found deceased after an apparent suicide near the BMO bank building, according to o cials.

Shortly after 4:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 11, o cers responded to reports of a suspicious person lurking around the bank, upon arrival o cers found the man hanging from a tree.

Det. Sgt. Nicholas Carlquist said the South Lake Tahoe Police Department cut the man down from the tree and attempted to perform life saving measures to no avail.

The mans identity has been withheld until next of kin has been notified.

Noble Sprunger

January 17, 1934 – August 4, 2023

Noble (Nobie) Sprunger, 89, a Georgetown, CA resident passed away in his home August 4, 2023. He was with his niece, Kim and her husband, David and surrounded by love. Nobie was born January 17, 1934 to Noble and Florence Sprunger in San Antonio, TX. His father was a pilot for Pan American Airlines and his family moved around a bit as part of the Pan Am family. He graduated High School in 1951 from Mountain View High School in California. It wasn’t long after graduation that he joined the United States Coast Guard. He talked about the positive influence it was to be part of the Coast Guard and how it helped to shape the man he became. He continued with the Coast Guard Reserves as a detective.

Noble went on to college and then law school. After receiving his degree and passing the California State Bar he moved to Placerville, CA and accepted a position with the El Dorado County Counsel’s o ce where he served for 20 years. After retiring from the County he went into private practice. He contracted with the El Dorado Irrigation District (EID) which formed a large part of his practice. Noble loved the mountains and all things outdoors. He was a longtime jeeper in the county and very involved with Jeep Jamboree USA and Jeepers Jamboree. He was involved on the legal side of things but also as a rock roller and guide on the trail. There were countless trips around the country but most of the best stories came from our own local Rubicon Trail.

He is survived by his former wife, Arlene Bethell, his three sisters, Carol Higgins, Jane Wesner and her husband, Ray, and Mary (Bunny) Sprunger, as well as nieces, nephews and many friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on September 25 at 2 PM at the Greenstone Country Barn, Greenstone Gated Community, 2900 Stagecoach Rd., Placerville, CA. 95667

LAKE LEVELS

Magnum Continued from A1

Northeastern & Central California and Northern Nevada. This wish marks the 10,000th wish granted by the local organization. Sacramento Firefighters Pipes & Drums were on hand to kick o the wish granting. EDCFPD

Fire Chief Tim Cordero asked Magnum to join the agency and presented to him a fire helmet with a custom leather shield. EDCFPD Director Lloyd Ogan read a board proclamation, approved by the board last month, declaring Magnum a firefighter for the day.

Magnum will experience the life of a firefighter during his day and will even get a firehouse meal provided by El Dorado County Professional Firefighters.

More fires blaze in Pollock Pines

Eric Jaramishian

Staff writer

After the former Taco Bell in Pollock Pines burned last Wednesday morning, firefighters had to tackle two other blazes in the area, marking a total of three fires in two days.

No injuries or damaged infrastructure were reported during either of the two latter incidents, Cal Fire Public Information Officer Wendy Oaks told the Mountain Democrat.

The first was a 20-foot by 20-foot vegetation fire that sparked near the Highway 50 offramp of Sly Park Road behind Family Dollar. Fire crews from

FINALLY, Medicare & Most Insurance Companies Pay for Treatment

CALL

the El Dorado County Fire Protection District and the Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit got the call at approximately 9:45 p.m. Wednesday and were able to quickly contain the blaze before it spread to more vegetation, according to Oaks.

The second fire was reported at 5:15 a.m. Thursday, this time behind the CVS on Pony Express Trail. Cal Fire and EDC Fire also responded to this incident and quickly contained the 10-foot by 10-foot vegetation fire, Oaks said.

The causes of all three fires remain unknown at this time and are under investigation, Oaks confirmed.

Health officials advise getting new COVID shot

Odin Rasco

Staff writer

The California Department of Public Health released new guidance last week recommending all Californians stay up to date with the newest COVID-19 vaccine.

With winter on the horizon — and the respiratory virus season that comes along with it — CDPH officials are recommending state residents get an updated COVID shot that has recently received federal approval.

In order to maintain a higher level of protection against severe illness, hospitalization and death, everyone 5 years or older is encouraged to receive a dose of the updated vaccine, provided it has been two months or longer since the most recent dose.

Getting vaccinated may also minimize symptoms from COVID19 if one does get infected, allowing them to return to their daily life faster, according to information from the CDPH.

Recommendations for younger children depend on the number of doses received previously.

CDPH representatives emphasize individuals at a high risk of illness from the coronavirus due to advanced age or underlying illness should immediately get the new vaccine. This group is most vulnerable to a more severe reaction to the disease and the worst outcomes possible.

“Staying up to date on the COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to keep your immunity strong and protect yourself and others from severe illness, hospitalization and death,” said CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Tomás Aragón. “As we enter the winter season, it is crucial that all individuals remain up to date with vaccinations when they’re eligible, including flu, COVID-19 and RSV.”

El Dorado County

Health and Human Services will receive doses of the new vaccine, though when they will get them — and how many they

will get — is unknown at this time, according to Carla Hass, director of communications for the county. Residents have to meet eligibility requirements to get a shot provided by the county (income thresholds, Medi-Cal participants, certain ethnicities, etc.) and there are two categories: kids (6 months-18 years) and adults (19 and older).

Who should get vaccinated

Everyone age 5 and up: Everyone 5 years of age and older, regardless of previous vaccination, is eligible to receive a single dose of the updated COVID19 vaccine as long as it’s been at least two months since the last dose.

Younger children and infants: Infants and younger children, 6 months through 4 years of age, who have previously been vaccinated against COVID-19 are eligible to receive one or two doses of the updated vaccine. The timing and number of doses depends on the previous COVID-19 vaccine received.

Unvaccinated younger children and infants: Unvaccinated infants and younger children, 6 months through 4 years of age, are eligible to receive three doses of the updated PfizerBioNTech COVID-19 vaccine or two doses of the updated Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.

When and how to schedule vaccination

Initial supplies of updated COVID-19 vaccine are expected in California in the coming weeks. For added convenience, COVID-19, flu and RSV vaccines can all be administered in the same visit. Schedule a vaccine appointment by visiting MyTurn.ca.gov or contacting a local pharmacy or healthcare provider.

How to pay for a COVID vaccine

COVID-19 vaccines will continue to be free for most Americans

through their health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal and regular health care providers.

The CDC’s Bridge Access Program will provide limited quantities of COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured and underinsured adults through December 2024. The Vaccines For Children program is a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children (18 and younger) who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay.

CDPH’s virus prevention tips

The best defense against COVID-19 and other winter viruses starts with good prevention. Follow these five tips to protect yourself and others:

• Stay up to date on vaccines: Vaccines reduce the chances of infection and are the best defense to limit severe illness and death. COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines will all be available for this winter season.

• Stay home if sick, test for COVID and treat if needed: Staying home when you’re sick slows the spread of COVID19, flu, RSV, and even the common cold. If you have symptoms, test for COVID-19 and contact your doctor immediately to seek treatment. Treatments work best when started right after symptoms begin.

• Consider wearing a mask in indoor public places: Wearing a mask significantly reduces the spread of respiratory viruses, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.

• Wash hands: Frequent hand washing with soap and warm water, for at least 20 seconds, is an easy and very effective way to prevent getting sick and spreading germs.

• Cover coughs or sneezes: Remember to cough or sneeze into your elbow, your arm or a disposable tissue to help prevent the spread of winter viruses. Wash or sanitize your hands and dispose of your tissue after.

Have something to say?? Email your letter to editor to editor@mtdemocrat.net We do not publish anonymous letters so don’t forget to include your first and last name and where in El Dorado County you live.

Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and may also lead to serious balance problems. This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood ow to the nerves in the hands and feet. If not properly treated this lack of blood ow may cause the nerves to degenerate.

Placerville, CA – Currently the most common method most doctor’s recommend to treat neuropathy is with the use of prescription drugs. Although these drugs may temporarily reduce your symptoms they may cause a feeling of discomfort and in some cases lead to a variety of terrible unwanted side effects. We have a different method!

The treatment to increase blood ow utilizes a specialized low-level light therapy (not to be confused with laser therapy) using light emitting diode technology. This technology was originally developed by NASA to assist in increasing blow ow.

The low level light therapy is like watering a tree. The light therapy will allow the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal and repair. It’s like adding water to a tree and seeing the roots grow deeper and deeper. The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation.

“My feet hurt so bad after sitting I could barely take the rst few steps. I have had 11 treatments and no longer feel sharp or shooting pains and most of the tingling is gone. I now have full balance and can walk without pain. As Dr. Mooney explained the treatment is not painful, nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.” – Neuropathy Pain Patient

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Assembly Democrats declare war on Prop. 13

Unicorns don’t exist in the real world and taxpayer heroes do not exist in the majority in the California Assembly.

Despite warnings from a massive coalition of taxpayer advocates, real estate interests and business groups, 56 members of the California Legislature just passed two of the most destructive bills possible by declaring war on Proposition 13.

How harmful to Proposition 13 are these two proposals? We’ve never seen worse. Assembly Constitutional Amendment 1 is a direct attack on Proposition 13 that would remove the taxpayer protection of the twothirds vote of the electorate required to pass local special taxes. If this measure is enacted, local taxes and bonds for “infrastructure” (nearly everything) and public housing projects would pass with just 55% of the vote instead of 66.67%. This makes it easier to raise taxes and your taxes could go up after every election.

At the same time that ACA 1 would make it easier to raise your taxes, Assembly Constitutional Amendment 13 would make it much harder to do anything about it. ACA 13 is a brazen attempt to change the rules for passing constitutional amendments that reinforce the provisions of Proposition 13.

Particularly stunning was the abandonment of Proposition 13 by several Democrats who have previously advertised themselves as being pro-taxpayer moderates. This includes Joaquin Arambula, Jesse Gabriel, Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, Tasha Boerner, Blanca Rubio, Sabrina Cervantes, Brian Maienschein, Al Muratsuchi, Cottie PetrieNorris (voted yes on ACA 13 and didn’t vote on ACA 1), Avelino Valencia (voted yes on ACA 13 and didn’t vote on ACA 1), James Ramos (voted yes on ACA 13 and didn’t vote on ACA 1), Carlos Villapudua (voted yes on ACA 1 but didn’t vote on ACA 13) and Sharon Quirk Silva (voted yes on ACA 1 but voted no on ACA 13). They have now been exposed as being as anti-taxpayer as any other representative in the California Capitol.

There is no limit to the range of special taxes

The Balancing Act

Letters to the Editor

Have a topic for the grand jury?

EDITOR:

The El Dorado County Grand Jury is now in session and that presents an opportunity for county residents to ask the jury to investigate issues of concern that relate to the operations of the Board of Supervisors as well as the operations of El Dorado County departments and agencies, the city governments and police forces of Placerville and South Lake Tahoe, school districts and the El Dorado County Sheri ’s Department.

Some questions it could address, for example: (1) Does the Board of Supervisors need a revised Code of Ethics? (2) Is the El Dorado County Historical Museum getting the financial support it needs from the county to adequately support its facilities and programs? (3) Are workers and visitors that come to the El Dorado County Courthouse provided su cient security?

And the list goes on.

If you have an issue you would like to propose that the grand jury investigate, the process is as simple as going to this website to retrieve a form for filing a complaint: edcgov.us/Government/ GrandJury/Pages/File-A-Complaint.aspx.

WESTON DEWALT Camino

Difficult to tell EDITOR:

Akitten had been crossing the yard for months, it seemed. Then it started coming into the garage and running when it saw us. That was odd. It was as though he had been chased away. He hadn’t. Not by us.

So why did he approach at all? We decided he must be hungry and started putting food out. Soon he came around without turning and running. We

decided to adopt and took to him be neutered.

After a month, there was no change in the cat’s appearance except size. Still hyperactive. We left a message suggesting the operation had been botched.

What few visitors we had, including a nurse’s aide, were puzzled. Nobody was sure if Boomer was still a boy or not. This was worse than when we bought a used washing machine. It didn’t wash again.

My brother in law is a storied kitten foster. He must know a boy from a previous boy. He helped us with the washing machine, too. I hope he visits soon.

ELIZABETH CAFFREY Placerville

Good company

EDITOR:

Isee Mr. Garon is fantasizing seeing Trump in a jail jumpsuit. As we sink into the abyss of banana republic status and state supremacy like in Russia, where political opponents of those in power never need to worry about making to an election, Trump may find himself in good company like Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn and Nelson Mandela. You may like Trump or you may hate him, but a political prisoner is exactly that no matter his stripe.

GEORGE ALGER Placerville

Destroying California’s logistics and commerce

President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s biggest achievement was perhaps the Interstate Highway Act of 1956. As such he was probably the best and most important president of the 20th century. It allowed for the massive movement of commerce. President Eisenhower was a West Point graduate and one of the last Five Star Generals of the United States, also known as General of the Army.

Eisenhower won World War II for two reasons besides the bravery and ingenuity of the American soldier. First was the industrial might of the United States as known by the Japanese Naval Commander in Chief, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto. Second, then Gen. Eisenhower was a master logistician. He knew how to move men and machines where they were needed. That’s one reason why Eisenhower was the supreme commander of D-Day. He later said the four most important weapons of WWII were the Douglas C-47 (DC-3), the Jeep, the bazooka and the atom bomb. Notice the first two weapons were not guns but all about logistics. California has proposed a new regulation that would have our

34th president rolling over in his grave in Abeline, Kansas — banning diesel trucks by 2036. It will put a severe roadblock to the movement of goods in California. California handles 40% of the country’s imports and 30% of the exports and, starting in a year or two, there will be no new diesel trucks allowed to service the ports. When the current diesel trucks wear out, that’s all folks. What about electric trucks? The Wall Street Journal has a rmed the data I previously reported. Referring to the Tesla Semi, the WSJ states the batteries weigh 16,000 pounds or more with about 1,500 kWh of storage or energy capacity giving ranges of anywhere from 150-300 miles. That means their load capacity is limited to 30,000-35,000 pounds— perfect for PepsiCo/Frito-Lay as they will only carry potato chips. And that’s exactly what PepsiCo has decided with its new Tesla fleet of ETs, at least at first. Beverages weigh too much and will shorten the range.

The WSJ also notes there are only 700 charging stations for trucks in California. California o cials estimate they will need 157,000 by 2030. These aren’t ordinary Level III chargers, but will need to have 300 kW to recharge

a truck in five hours and 1,500 kW of energy delivery to charge a truck in an hour. It will take a muscle trucker just to handle the charging cable. And where are they going to get that kind of power? Your average home receptacle puts out about a kilowatt and a half. To charge one of these trucks in an hour you would need a power source 1,000 times more powerful. Twenty trucks hooked up at a truck stop will draw 30 Megawatts — if they even have chargers that powerful and the grid can handle it. And the cost for a bank of these impossible chargers will be in the tens of millions.

Vehicle cost is another huge issue. ETs are projected to cost three times that of a diesel semi. At $150/kWh and climbing, the batteries will cost about $225,000 per truck and the truck cost will hit $500,000. A comparable Kenworth or Freightliner starts at about $160,000 and late model used ones are half that.

And then there is the speed of these trucks. Outside California speed limits are 75, 80 and even 85 mph. An ET weighing 80,000 pounds might only last 150-200 miles at those speeds even though the claimed range is 300

miles. That means you drive twoplus hours and stop for five hours. Brilliant! Diesels with 200 gallons of fuel weighing just 1,350 pounds (for the fuel) have ranges of 1,400 miles or more at those speeds. Energy costs for ETs might be as low as 50 cents or as high as $2 a mile (at 30 cents/kWh) while a diesel at $4/gallon is about 50-55 cents a mile. If you think we had a supply chain problem a couple of years ago, you ain’t seen nothing yet.

So, what’s this government’s trillions of dollars debacle going to do? Save the planet or are we fighting another phantom crisis, like “the Martians are coming?” First, it was the $100-billion bullet train to nowhere and now its electric semis. Leftist trying to destroy our society are not realists, not even idealists, far from it. They want a communist utopia (now there is an oxymoron) and it will never work as it defies human nature. The marketplace always works best. But the marketplace isn’t the concern of these state and federal zealots; it’s total control of the populace and how best to achieve it — of course, except

that would be authorized under ACA 1: local sales taxes, parcel taxes (special property tax levies not limited to Prop 13’s 1% limit), real estate transfer taxes, and many more.

Even worse ACA 1 lowers the two-thirds vote for local bonds repaid only by property owners. That two-thirds vote requirement has existed since 1879! For more than 140 years it has been a check against excessive property taxes and bonded indebtedness that creates a lien on real property.

ACA 13 is just as bad as ACA 1. It is a devious attempt to stop the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act from passing when it’s on the ballot in November 2024. The Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act is our initiative constitutional amendment that will restore the Proposition 13 protections that have been eroded by the courts. But ACA 13 would create special rules that make it harder to pass citizen initiatives like this one. If ACA 13 is enacted, the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability Act would require a two-thirds vote to pass instead of the simple majority vote that has been required for all other constitutional amendments since statehood.

Taxpayer Advocates, business groups and a

NEW

coalition of hundreds of organizations need your help as these two dangerous measures come up for a vote in the California Senate. We’re asking all homeowners, taxpayers, and business owners to contact their state senator and demand that they reject both ACA 1 and ACA 13. To do otherwise will communicate to their constituents that they are focused only on raising taxes and care little for the plight of hardworking families in their district.

Jon Coupal is the President of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association and Sara Catalán is the President and CEO of Orange County Taxpayers Association.

for themselves. Governments are always above the law.

And in case you didn’t see the news, China can’t sell all the electric cars it’s currently manufacturing. The Chinese people don’t want them. Thousands are lying in a wasteland, some looking junked. Maybe they can convince people at the point of a bayonet?

The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation

620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018

Larry Weitzman is a resident of Placerville.

For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550

For Release Monday, September 18, 2023

TIMES CROSSWORD

Crossword

Monday, September 18, 2023

Edited by Will Shortz No. 0814

so I am trying to figure out who should we be sending them to get help when they can’t figure out the system if it is not the ombudsman.”

Planning and Building Director Karen Garner explained customers are referred to the ombudsman if they have inquiries of the status of their permit, but only in certain circumstances.

Sta more knowledgable with specific projects answer questions of the permitting process for the customer as well, according to Garner.

“On the building side, if it is a more complex project and (the customer) is struggling to get through, that could be the ombudsman that helps or someone from our economic division that helps as well,” Garner said.

Sometimes it takes a team of people from county sta to help the customer get through the permitting process, she added.

Regarding the length of time it takes for customers to get through the permitting process, Garner came up with two potential solutions. Her first plan is to construct a position in Planning and Building with the sole responsibility of improving the permitting process, commenting that current sta do not emphasize such priorities due to extensive workload and hard deadlines.

“They would not be assigned any projects because they would focus on the process, but

I would want someone who understands that process, has been in the planning or building world and has seen how permits are processed and all the steps that it takes,” Garner told the board.

The Planning and Building Department is also getting a revamped website that will include a map of all processed projects and its information, including all documents submitted.

“The plan is to have that after something is submitted, so after the project is submitted a pin will show up on that map and someone can see what was submitted and we will update that information as the project moves through the process,” Garner explained. “When environmental documents are submitted or a Planning Commission hearing date is set, that will be put on the website so someone can follow along.”

Supervisors seemed to be pleased with Garner’s plan to fix some issues regarding the permitting process delays.

“I think what largely has been missing is better understanding of what are the process elements and how do we streamline it, getting rid of the non-value added stu and making sure things move through that process as opposed to getting hung up because one person is not there for two weeks,” Hidahl said. “You always

SIMON MAROTTE AND TRENTON LEE STEWART Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Announcements

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

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

El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

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

Struggle with a hurt, hang up, or habit? CELEBRATE RECOVERY meets at Radiant Church on Wednesday nights at 6:30 pm, 4602 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville. We are a Christ centered recovery program to find healing from our hurts, hang ups, and habits. Email CR@radiantedc.church. Find us on Facebook at: https://www. facebook.com/CRradiantchurch.

Struggling with life? CELEBRATE

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

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

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

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

MARSHALL HOSPITAL

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

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

SENIOR PEER COUNSELING

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

TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY

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

COMiCS

School Spirit

Permitting

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want to look for alternative routing and that’s what the process effort you are looking at is going to address.”

District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo called for better communication between county staff and residents looking to get through the permitting process.

“We have met with a lot of people that have not been contacted for four or five years either and they need to know what is going on with their permit process and their development,” Turnboo said. Board Chair and District 3 Supervisor Wendy Thomas suggested benchmarking staff work, as suggested in the Grand Jury report.

“I think it would help, for the sake of transparency to the public, to perhaps have performance measures on our website, especially the low-hanging fruit from the building permits, not just the complex projects,” Thomas said. “If it’s a simple heater that takes

a day, that you perhaps processed 1,100 permits in two days or so, or performance measures you have to give the public, you give them a good idea of what is going on in the Building Department.”

One particular commenter during the meeting, identified as K. Davis, took issue with the county’s response stating staff is “simply” working with IT to resolve many of the permitting issues.

“That does not seem like an adequate response, I urge the board to direct staff to prepare a better response especially in light of numerous planning and building permit delays, which are currently excessive for everyone in the county,” Davis said.

The entirety of the county’s response can be read online at eldorado.legistar. com in the consent calendar for the board’s Sept. 19 meeting agenda. The board will vote to send the official response during that meeting.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You are naturally drawn to the things that broaden your knowledge of the world and deepen the world’s knowledge of you. In the weeks to come, you’ll be loving, exploring, reading and writing based on something you investigate today.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). The primary aim of sleepwalkers is to repeat the pattern thoughtlessly. Don’t be lulled into the drone. Stay awake and aware. If you seize opportunities, you’ll be given more. If you decline them, you’ll be given fewer.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Words present options; action makes things happen. The words will open the curtain on a new arena. Nothing will happen there until you make your first move. You’ll be surprised and delighted how others counter it.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). The way you’re going at a task is working to some extent, but not to the extent you would like. If you try harder, the returns will not be commensurate with your effort. Switch tracks. You’ll find better, cheaper, faster methods.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). While sorting the problem out, it will go better for you if you don’t stop to judge, teach or preach. People are only doing what comes naturally given the circumstances. The better you understand, the faster you’ll solve this one.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). At the start of an endeavor, you don’t need skill; you just need courage. The unknown is scary and beginners make mistakes -- bravely embrace it. Someone welcoming will make you feel safer.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). To handle problems, you have to have the capacity to see them. This same capacity is the reason you get overwhelmed. Accept that it’s all a part of the same gift and you would not be nearly as effective without it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The dragonfly lives underwater then one day takes flight. Changes that seem miraculous are common, natural and happening to millions the world over. Rest assured, your transformation is underway. It feels strange, but you’re not alone in it.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’ll be at your best when you’re comfortable. Gravitate toward people who feel easy to be around. Check in with yourself to recognize what doesn’t feel quite right. Small adjustments can make a world of difference.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’re too vigilant to believe life should be sheer enjoyment. However, you’re open-minded enough to take on the concept as a thought exercise and see how it affects your day. If your sole job and purpose were to do as you please, what then?

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ve done a job so long you’ve become desensitized to certain aspects of it. Alter your perspective through research of new developments, competitors and the like. How does it look when you pretend you’re new? PISCES

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

HOROSCOPE

El Dorado County Fire Protection District Chief Tim Cordero, above drives students down Main Street in a vintage fire truck during the El Dorado High School Homecoming Parade. At right, the Cougar enjoys a ride as part of the school’s ski and snowboard team float.

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

In the KNOW

Sept. 18

Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive noon to 4:30 p.m. with the Bloodmobile located in the parking lot near the baseball fields at the EDH Community Services District, 1021 Harvard Way. Make an appointment at donors. vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM019 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

Sept. 19

Broadway Sacramento presents “Hadestown,” Sept. 19-24 at the Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Sept. 20

The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce hosts a business luncheon with EDC District Attorney Vern Pierson as the featured speaker, 11:30 a.m. at the Cameron Park Country Club. To register visit eldoradocounty.org.

Are you nervous about the upcoming fire season?

Have questions about home hardening and creating defensible space?

Do you know what to do if wildfire is headed your way? The Camino Fire Safe Council hosts a meeting to answer these questions and more at 6:30 p.m. at the Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit headquarters, 2840 Mt. Danaher Road in Camino.

David Woodriff presents a living history performance featuring the story of George Whittell, one of the wealthiest men in the United States in the 1930s, who kept an African Lion for a pet, built one of the most beautiful pleasure

Quilters stitch their best for Images of Hope

Mountain Democrat staff

September is Quilt Month for Images of Hope and that means it’s time for the great online Quilt Auction beginning at noon Sept. 19 and ending at noon Sept. 29.

There are 16 unique quilts and four table runners up for auction. They are currently on display at businesses on Main Street in Placerville. To see these incredible pieces of art take a stroll along Main Street and stop by Ambiance, Placerville News Co., Placerville Hardware, Lofty Lou’s, Elements Hair Salon, Gold Country Artists Gallery, Placerville Art Gallery, Kelsey’s Needle Krafts, High Sierra Quilters, Robinson’s Pharmacy, Wine Smith, The Bookery, Violets Are Blue, Pop Art and Olde Town Grill. Some quilts are displayed in windows and others inside the businesses.

All the quilts have been donated to Images of Hope El Dorado by local quilters. The auction helps raise funds for the arts and movement therapy classes offered for free to those affected by cancer and other traumas on the Western Slope of El Dorado County.

“Thank you to the quilters for donating these beautiful quilts, the businesses for displaying the quilts and thank you to the community

for supporting the cancer and trauma patients,” said Wendy Goossen, founder of Images of Hope.

To place a bid go to ImagesofHopeElDorado.org and get the link to the quilt auction website.

“We are so fortunate to live in such a creative and

generous community,” Goossen added. “The quilters are amazing and so talented. Each quilt is a work of art and will bring joy to everyone who buys one. Those buying a quilt are wonderful and they contribute to the health of El Dorado County.”

Images of Hope El Dorado

will also be at the Bell Tower on Main Street having fun with some great photo opportunities during Girl’s Night Out’s Flower Powerthemed event, 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23. For more information about Images of Hope go to ImagesofHopeElDorado.org.

“Colored Squares” by Janet Barnard

“Coffee Plant” by Linda George

Mountain Democrat photo by Noel Stack “Fair Isle” donated by High Sierra Quilters hangs in Gold Country Artists Gallery in downtown Placerville. Bidding for this quilt and many others begins Sept. 19. n See Know

at the Wildlife Bazaar Yard Sale Fundraiser and Food Festival, Sept. 22-24.

This event is a lot of fun and guests never know what treasures they will find. Delicious food and snacks will be served to ensure no one is hungry or parched while shopping for good deals.

All proceeds will give orphaned and injured wildlife another chance at life.

In 2022 Sierra Wildlife Rescue took in more than 1,500 injured and orphaned birds and mammals. The costs to save an animal adds up quickly. For example, it can cost $600-$800 to rehabilitate a baby coyote or bobcat, $350$425 to rehabilitate and raise one baby fox, $175-$300 to rehab one large raptor and $80$120 to rehab one adult songbird.

“All the money raised through this yard sale fundraiser will help feed these voracious creatures,” said Connie Werner Reichert, Sierra Wildlife Rescue mammal team volunteer. “It will allow us to continue to buy specialized foods and

formula for the various species, (provide) safe enclosures during rehabilitation and pay for much needed veterinarian expenses. Your donations are taxdeductible and very much appreciated.”

The event takes place 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, and Saturday, Sept. 23, and 9 a.m. to noon, Sunday, Sept. 24, at 777 Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.

Those who can’t make it to the bazaar are welcome to send a donation check to P.O. Box 2127, Placerville, CA 95667 or donate by credit card by clicking on the Donate Now button on the rescue’s website, sierrawildliferescue.org.

All donations are taxdeductible.

Sierra Wildlife Rescue rescues, rehabilitates and releases wildlife from the western slope of El Dorado County and is permitted through U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services and California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The organization’s mission is the preservation and education of El Dorado County’s wildlife. To accomplish this, SWR rehabilitates and releases injured and orphaned native animal species back into the wild and provides educational programs to schools, community organizations and the public on wildlife conservation.

For more information visit sierrawildliferescue. org or call (530) 6214661.

Explore life’s possibilities at Encore Living Retreat

News release

Are you wondering what you are going to do with the rest of your life?

The Encore Living retreat is being offered to help answer that question. The course curriculum is designed to open hearts to a renewed purpose for life; and it encourages participants to apply their energies, experiences, wisdom and resources to meet a need and help solve problems confronting our communities today. That second act might just surpass all that has gone before.

This one-day retreat is being led by Rev. Sam Shafer at the Church of Our Saviour in Placerville, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23. Register by sending an email to revdebra. oursaviour@gmail.com with “Encore Retreat” in subject line. Lunch will be served. Donations will be taken at the door.

Rev. Sam ShafeR

Last year SWR took in more than 1,500 injured animals.

This year’s Founders’ Day festivities take place Saturday, Sept. 24.

Founders’ Day on the way

Kat Mendenhall

Staff writer

Georgetown’s Founders’ Day is scheduled for Sept. 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Georgetown Divide Rotary Club.

As always, the highlights will be live music, the Kids Zone, a cornhole contest, gun fights, mining equipment demonstrations, food, arts and crafts and the parade. The Grand Marshal will be Tom Gilchrist.

Celebrate Constitution Week

Carol bly DAR – El Dorado chapter

Constitution Week, Sept. 17-23, is celebrated across the country. This week-long event that commemorates the formation and signing of the Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787, was the direct result of a congressional resolution petitioned by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution in 1955. The resolution was signed into public law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956. On Sept. 16, 2002

Every year Founders’ Day has a theme and this year’s theme is “Kids on the Divide.” All of the information is available for those who would like to participate including a booth application, map, release of liability and a sales form. Booth applications and Parade Entry Forms can be picked up and returned to Jeepers Jamboree and Main Street Mercantile, both located on Main Street in Georgetown. For more information or to receive applications online email gtownrotaryclub@gmail.com.

President George W. Bush further formalized Constitution Week with the annual inclusion of Constitution and Citizen Day on Sept. 17.

The El Dorado Chapter of NSDAR held its first meeting of the 2023-24 season in September, honoring the Constitution with a reenactment written by former chapter regent Janet Levi and performed by members from both DAR and

Sons of the American Revolution.

In addition, chapter members will be participating in events throughout the local schools and community.

Members of the El Dorado Chapter of DAR take pleasure and pride in working together in alignment with national DAR objectives and in harmony with local

community needs. To learn more about the work of today’s DAR visit DAR.org and for more information about the El Dorado Chapter, or if you wish to learn about your Revolutionary War ancestors, contact Chapter Regent Sally Johns at ElDoradoCountyRegent@yahoo.com.

Courtesy photo

Janet Levi gets into the patriotic spirit in time for Constitution Week.

Mountain Democrat file photo

Cast off on a special yarn adventure this week

News release

RENO, Nev. — The Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, an eagerly awaited annual event celebrating the passion for yarn and fiber arts, is back for its highly anticipated 2023 edition.

Organized by the Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl Board, this year’s crawl promises an exciting opportunity for yarn enthusiasts, crafters and creative individuals to explore the remarkable yarn shops that grace the stunning Sierra Nevada region. Among those participating are Lofty Lou’s in Placerville and Knits & Knots Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe.

Scheduled Sept. 21-24, the 2023 Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl will showcase an impressive lineup of nine participating shops, each offering a unique experience for visitors. From well-established

Know Continued from B1

crafts to navigate Lake Tahoe, entertained former presidents, and unintentionally conserved a large portion of Lake Tahoe lands for the public to enjoy today. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.

Sept. 21

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts an informational class about training for new Master Gardeners, 4-5:50 p.m. For more information visit ucanr.edu/ becomeamastergardener.

The Cameron Park Community Services District hosts a Park Pop-Up event, 4:30-6 p.m. at Christa McAuliffe Park. Staff will welcome participants of all ages and abilities to join for games, crafts and socializing.

Sept. 22

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

The Fabulous Liars will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.

Drew Butts, The Numinous and Phantom Spires will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville, 7-11 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Ariel Jean Band will perform 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Casino Stage Bar at Red Hawk Casino in Placerville. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

Catherine Russell will perform at 7 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-

landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be discovered, the crawl highlights the diversity and talent within the local yarn and fiber arts community.

“We are thrilled to bring back the Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl for another exciting year,” said Shannon Flores, spokesperson for the Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl Board. “This event celebrates the creativity and craftsmanship of our local yarn shops while fostering connections within the vibrant fiber arts community. We encourage everyone, from novices to seasoned fiber enthusiasts, to join us for a remarkable experience.”

All shops will welcome shoppers 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Each shop will offer exclusive promotions, discounts and special events throughout the duration of the crawl, providing an ideal opportunity for visitors to indulge their passion for

Studio Tour, Sept. 23 & 24. For map and complete details go to paastudiotour.com.

Scout BSA Troop 460’s annual rummage sale spectacular will be held at the Mother Lode Lions Hall parking lot 8 a.m. to dark Sept 23 and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 24. Call Sandra at (530) 2953327 to donate items or more information.

Omo Ranch Road wineries unite to offer complimentary tastings, food pairings and discounts, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participating wineries are Mirador, Lost Arrow, Mellowood, Golden Leaves and Kehret Vineyards. Order tickets at cellarpass. com.

Shadow Ranch Vineyard in Fair Play hosts Yoga in the Vines at 10 a.m. Join Lisa for a gentle and relaxing yoga class in the Shadow Ranch grove. Brunch and Shadow Ranch mimosas will be served after the class. To make reservations for yoga visit shadowranch.com/Events. Fair Play Market Days follows, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. No reservations required.

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. Pairings 2023 combines a chef’s creativity with the beautifully crafted Miraflores wines. Diners will be able to talk to the chef du jour about the wine and food experience. On Sept. 23 and 24 chef Liz Freehand is preparing a Mediterranean Afternoon menu. Call (530) 647-8505 or email info@mirafloreswinery.com to make a reservation.

The Fabulous Liars will perform at Poor Red’s in El Dorado, 4-7 p.m.

The Rotary Club of Placerville hosts Concert and Lobster on the River, 4-10 p.m. at Henningsen Lotus Park. Proceeds will benefit CASA, scholarships, and community projects and improvements. The event will include no-host food trucks, a no-host bar, music performed by The Breakers and The Cartunes, axe throwing, gold panning, cornhole, raffles and a silent auction. Tickets are on sale through Sept. 19. For more will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/liveHands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference hosts its Endless , 5-9 p.m. at Village Green Park in Serrano, El Dorado Hills. The adults-only Polynesian-themed evening includes a live band, a catered dinner, beverages, a short program, loads of beach party fun, and a robust selection of silent auction and raffles. For tickets and more information visit takes over historical Main Street in Placerville, 5-9 p.m. Visitors will enjoy a far out fashion show, costume and hula hoop contests, outta sight live music, photo ops and more. Goodie bags for the event are available at Sierra Vista Winery in the Pleasant Valley area hosts Petty Jack , 5:30-8 p.m. For more information call (530) 622-7221 or celebrating the beauty of nature with its upcoming fall concert series, Invisible Stars. Cantaré Chorale will perform a delightfully diverse set of works by composers from all over the world, including “Stars” by Eriks Esenvalds, “Blackbird” John Lennon & Paul McCartney, “Blue Moon” by Richard Rodgers & Lorenz Hart and more. Performances are scheduled in El Dorado Hills (Sept. 23), Placerville (Sept. 30) and Rescue (Oct. 7). Tickets for the three upcoming concerts are available online at cantarechorale.com, will perform 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Casino Stage Bar at Red Hawk Casino in Placerville. For more information visit

yarn and connect with like-minded individuals.

Flores highlighted the most crucial aspect of this year: the passport.

Each participant should pre-print their passport, which is available on the website. Crawlers can get it stamped at every store and then drop it off at their last stop to be entered to win basket prizes. Regarding prizes, crawlers will receive a free gift at each shop location and no purchase is necessary. Each store has a limited number of swag items, so crawlers are encouraged to secure the swag during their first store visit on Sept. 21.

For more information about the 2023 Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl, including a complete list of participating shops, exclusive promotions and event schedules, visit sierranevadayarncrawl.com or follow along on the Sierra Nevada Yarn Crawl Instagram and Facebook.

Musician Ed Wilson will perform at Pete’s Restaurant in Folsom, 6-9 p.m.

Pasquale Esposito will perform at 7 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Damn Tall Buildings will perform at 8 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheater.com.

Experience action and adventure at the 31st Folsom

Renaissance Faire & International Jousting Tournament, Sept. 23-24 at Folsom City Lions Park. For tickets and more information visit bit.ly/42HgYaC.

California Stage in Sacramento presents A Reading of Rare Shakespeare, Sept. 23 & 24. For tickets and more information visit calstage.org.

Sept. 24

The Shingle Springs Community Center hosts an Artisan Faire, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendors wanted. For more information call (530) 651-0747 or visit shinglespringscommunitycenter.org.

MIXUP Band will perform at 3 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.

Sierra Symphony presents a pops concert at Smith Flat House in Placerville at 5 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door. For more information visit sierrasymphony.org.

Marielle Kraft with Emma Klein will perform at 7 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

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

Now

The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office is now recruiting for the Sheriff’s Team of Active Retirees volunteers. The potential opportunities include but are not limited to patrol, clerical office work, community outreach, special events and more. They support various functions of law enforcement and the community. The next STAR Academy will be held Oct. 9-19. Requirements to be a STAR are to have no criminal history and a clean driving record. For more information contact the STAR office at (530) 621-7545 or email EDSOStars@edso.org.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Cinderella” through Sept. 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “On Golden Pond” through Sept. 24. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Clyde’s” through Sept. 24. For tickets and more information visit capstage.org. Imagination Theater on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville presents “Clue” through Sept. 30. For tickets and more information call (530) 663-6983 or visit itplacerville.org.

El Dorado County Certified Farmers Markets take place Wednesdays at Burke Junction on Coach Lane in Cameron Park, 8 a.m. to noon; Saturdays at Placerville Cinema on Placerville Drive, 8 a.m. to noon; and Sundays at El Dorado Hills Town Center, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit eldoradofarmersmarket.com.

The Placerville Main Street Farmers Market takes place Wednesdays, 4 p.m. to dusk, in the Mooney Lot on Main Street. This market specializes in local fruits and vegetables, sustainable agriculture and community.

Snarky Puppy’s tour comes to The Center for the Arts

News release

GRASS VALLEY

— The Center for the Arts presents Snarky Puppy: Empire Central Tour with opener House of Waters in the Marisa Funk Theater Sept. 20.

After more than a decade of relentless touring and recording in all but complete obscurity, the Texasbred quasi-collective suddenly found itself held up by the press and public as one of the major figures in the jazz world. But as the category names for all five of the band’s Grammy Awards would indicate (Best R&B Performance in 2014, Best Contemporary Instrumental Album in 2016, 2017, 2021 and 2023), Snarky Puppy isn’t exactly a jazz band. It’s not a fusion band and it’s definitely not a jam band.

It’s probably best to take Nate Chinen of the New York Times’ advice, as stated in an online discussion about the group: “Take them for what they are, rather than judge them for what they’re not.”

Snarky Puppy is a collective of sorts with as many as 20 members in regular rotation. At its core, the band represents the convergence of both Black and white American music culture with various accents from around the world. Japan, Argentina, Canada and the United Kingdom all have

representation in the group’s membership. But more than the cultural diversity of the individual players, the defining characteristic of Snarky Puppy’s music is the joy of performing together in the perpetual push to grow creatively.

The group’s latest Grammy winning album, “Empire

Central,” was released in September 2022. Its sound is big and bold, chill and laid back, rooted in its native culture while reaching outward, forward bound. With 16 new compositions, the group looks fondly at where it has come from, confident in the polished power from which its members

continue to build the unique Snarky Puppy sound.

The sound now rises like a skyscraper from a 21st-century orchestra comprising of three guitarists, four keyboardists, two brass, two reeds, a violinist, multiple percussionists and drummers and the accomplished, yet modest, Michael

League keeping it all together with his bass.

“Our soundscape has expanded dramatically over the years,” League said. “When the band started, we were jazzier, brainy, and musicoriented. Moving into the Dallas scene we became groovier, more emotional, deeper in a sense. We focused more on communicating a clear message, understandable to a listener without dumbing things down.”

“Empire Central” shouts from the rooftops how far Snarky Puppy has come since 10 friends got together at the University of North Texas in 2004. It also raises the question — where will Snarky Puppy go next? For Snarky Puppy fans, the answer to this question is a very exciting prospect.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. at The Center for the Arts, 314 West Main St. in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org or call (530) 274-8384.

Honor a local nurse who has made a difference

News release

Marshall Foundation for Community Health, Marshall Medical Center and the MathewsonBonser Nursing Scholarship fund present the Honor a Nurse Celebration Sept. 22.

The foundation invites residents to celebrate a nurse (or nurses) who have touched their lives. The nurse will receive a special recognition letter, telling them that their care and compassion are appreciated. Nursing has always been a noble

profession that requires continuous education, skill, compassion, patience and stamina. These men and women devote their lives to caring for others.

With the submission of a $100 gift (or more), those who wish to honor a nurse will have an opportunity to include a message to the honoree, which will be shared at the celebration event, 2:30-4 p.m. in the Marshall Hospital south wing lobby, 1100 Marshall Way in Placerville.

A Honor a Nurse donation supports the Mathewson-Bonser Nursing Scholarship Fund.

In 1990 Drs. John Mathewson and Quentin Bonser created the Mathewson-Bonser Nursing Scholarship Fund to help aspiring or current nurses further their education and advance their healthcare skills. Each year since, grants have been awarded to provide resources that benefit both the nurses and Marshall Medical Center patients. To date, 198 scholarships totaling more than $343,900 have been awarded.

For more information and to make a donation visit marshallfound.org.

Courtesy photo

Snarky Puppy is a collective of sorts with as many as 20 members in regular rotation performing their own style of music. See them live this Wednesday.