Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Van Streefkerk back to court

UCD: Drones can help spot wildfires earlier

Typically the primary indicator of a burgeoning wildfire in California is a plume of hazy, gray smoke wafting through the air, seen by satellites or cameras. Cal Fire is alerted and mitigation and containment efforts ensue.

State scales back electric-car rebates

Alejandro Lazo

CalMatters

California is eliminating its popular electric car rebate program — which often runs out of money and has long waiting lists — to focus on providing subsidies only to lowerincome car buyers.

The Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, in

ADDRESS LABEL HERE

existence since 2010, will end when it runs out of money this year. In its place, the state will expand a program next year that provides subsidies only to low-tomiddle income residents — those who have more trouble affording electric cars.

The income limits will be much more restrictive. Californians who earn more than 300% of the federal poverty level will no longer qualify for a state subsidy when they purchase an electric car, according to the California Air Resources Board. Currently, that level is $43,740 for an individual and $90,000 for a family of four, with sliding scales for household size.

By comparison, under the existing program that is being eliminated, individuals earning up to $135,000 and joint

n See rebate, page A7

But Zhaodan Kong, a professor in the department of mechanical and aerospace engineering at the University of California, Davis, thinks that living by the idea “where there’s smoke, there’s fire,” gets firefighters to the problem too late, after it has already spread and is difficult to contain.

“Right now, the way that it works is you see a fire and then you respond,” Kong said. “It’s very passive, very reactive.”

Instead, Kong, whose research in artificial intelligence and autonomy includes unmanned aerial vehicles, or UAVs, believes an integrated system of technologies to detect fires before they get to a smoking point could be game changing, potentially preventing widespread wildfire damage.

Sensors and sensibility

The detection would start on the ground with internetconnected sensors placed in strategic locations where wildfire events have occurred or are likely to occur (determined by Cal Fire). These palm-sized sensors, developed by Anthony Wexler, distinguished professor in the department of mechanical and aerospace engineering and director of the UCD Air Quality Research Center, measure temperature, humidity and wind speed to determine which areas could be at higher risk of a wildfire event.

“The things that cause a high wildfire risk situation are high temperature, low humidity and high wind speed,” said Wexler, who has been working on these sensors for nearly a decade.

“Temperature and humidity are relatively uniform over large geographical areas, but wind speed changes dramatically

from place to place in California because of the topography.”

Once the triple threat — super dry soil, high temperature and strong wind — is detected, UAVs would then be sent out with payloads of cameras and chemical sensors to sweep the

n See droneS, page A3

Photo courtesy of UC Davis

Researcher Zhaodan Kong and his team are developing a hybrid aircraft that can land and take off vertically like a rotorcraft, but also has qualities of a fixed-wing aircraft that can cruise at high altitudes for hours.

Photo courtesy of Lawrence Tsa/UC Davis

A wind sensor prototype in Alaska gathers data.

Kevin vAn StReefKeRK

n See Van Streefkerk, page A6

Patrick Shepard

Couch

Dec. 26, 1934 – July 18, 2023

Patrick Shepard Couch passed away peacefully on July 18th, 2023, at the age of 88. He was born December 26, 1934, to Robert W. and Helen J. Couch in Je erson City, Missouri. He attended school there graduating in 1952 from St. Peters High School. He went on to study engineering in college, graduating from Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and after completing O cer Candidate School at Newport, Rhode Island, he was commissioned and ordered to serve in the Public Works Department at Mare Island Naval Shipyard; the Naval Hospital at the Marine Corps Base in Camp Pendleton, California; and finally at the Marine Corps Base at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Altogether, Patrick’s active-duty service with the Navy covered almost five years. He returned to civilian life and to Missouri School of Mines and in the summer of 1964 received his master’s degree in civil engineering. He continued his military service later that year after moving to Sacramento, California, and served for another 18 years in the Naval Reserves (Seabees), rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. In his civilian life, he worked for the State of California as a design engineer for the Department of Water Resources on the California Aqueduct, Napa’s turnout reservoir and its pipeline surge tank. After 4 years at DWR, he transferred to Caltrans and over the next 13 years he wrote construction contract specifications and worked on subventions for city and county road projects. In 1980 he transferred to the Department of Parks and Recreation, from which he retired in December 1984.

Patrick loved the great outdoors, especially creeks, hunting and fishing, and did his best to pass that love and appreciation on to his children. He deeply loved El Dorado County, where he and his family settled in 1967, and he especially loved the hills, streams and meadows surrounding Pleasant Valley, including Sly Park Lake, Clear Creek, and the Cosumnes River. Patrick believed in conservation, and for several years he helped the El Dorado Rod & Gun Club do monthly cleanups of illegal dump sites in El Dorado National Forest.

Patrick had a wry, self-deprecating sense of humor. He always loved a simple, clever joke. He was a devout Catholic, although attending Mass became physically di cult for him in his later years. While he was never one to ask for favors for himself, he would ask you to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. He would certainly say with a smile that he would do the same for you if he indeed made it to the great campground in the sky.

Patrick was preceded in death by his brother, William Robert Couch, his sisters Mary Bob Palermo and Marilyn “Susie” Couch, and his former wife Peggy Helen Couch, who passed away in December 2022. He is survived by his six children, and 12 grandchildren: Kevin Couch, (Jenny Anderson; Colin); Kitty (Katherine) Light (Nicole Alvarez (Matt) and Ethan Suaste (Charla); Julie Dunn (Tony; Chrystal Garrett (Joe) and Melissa Mutzig (Scott); Sara Easterbrook (Keith; Ian Lange, Amelia Hughes(Sean), and Elizabeth Easterbrook); Rachel Couch (Natalie Hurt); and Tony (Anthony) Couch (Sequoya Campbell, Kai Lee Campbell, and Denali Campbell). Patrick also leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Clayton Garrett, Evelyn Mutzig, Alison Mutzig, Spencer Mutzig, Isaiah Morgan, and Jett Alvarez.

Services will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church, at a later date.

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.

Elias Greyson

Nov. 29, 2021 - July 3, 2023

Elias Greyson peacefully took his final rest in the arms of his loving mother, Amy Stinnett, on July 3, 2023 at UC Davis Children’s Hospital.

Elias was born on November 29, 2021 to Amy Stinnett & Justin Terry, joining his older brothers Caleb & Mason. Throughout his brief time with us, Elias filled countless lives with delight and love. Elias was full of joy and wonder, he loved nature and water play and rejoiced in exploring the world around him as a busy and curious toddler. Elias’ siblings were wonderful when playing with & looking after their baby brother & have been incredibly hurt by this loss. Though Elias was with his family for a short period, that’s all the time he needed to change the lives of those he touched forever. Elias will be forever cherished and remembered by all.

Services will be held at Green Valley Church on Thursday, September 21st at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to The Elias Greyson Memorial & Donation account at any El Dorado Savings Bank.

John Edward

Van Alen Jr.

Jan. 8, 1932 – Aug. 23, 2023

John Edward Van Alen, Jr. was born January 8, 1932 in Manhattan, New York and passed away peacefully August 23, 2023 at the age of 91 with his wife and family at his bedside.

He grew up in Brooklyn, New York and after high school joined the United States Navy. He served during the Korean War. After discharge from the Navy he married Carol Joan Sailor and they moved to California where he found employment testing rocket engines at Aerojet.

His pride and joy was his ranch in Shingle Springs where he raised his family and had a few horses.

“Jack,” as he was a ectionately known, enjoyed many di erent hobbies including CB radio communicating and flying RC planes. He put together an awesome four foot long paddle wheeler boat with all the intricate parts. He was especially meticulous with whatever he set out to do.

He was preceded in death is by his sister, Alida Delaney, and his wife Carol Joan. He is survived by his daughter, Debbie Pick, his son, John Van Alen III, his daughters Cindy Woodel, and Susan Stullich. His wife, Carol Jean also survives him as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Services will be private.

Noble Sprunger

Jan. 17, 1934 – Aug. 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

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

Aug. 27

4:55 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 29-year-old man suspected of disorderly conduct on Cambridge Road in Cameron Park. He was later released.

5:28 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 27-year-old woman suspected of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (not a firearm) on Cambridge Road in Cameron Park. She was released on $50,000 bail.

1:53 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 27-year-old woman suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Palmer Drive in Cameron Park. She was listed in custody in lieu of $45,000 bail.

2:52 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 30-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia, felony parole violations, identity theft and driving without a license on Plaza Goldorado Circle in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody in lieu of $20,000 bail.

4:03 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Perry Creek Road in Somerset.

9:17 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 40-year-old man suspected of possession of narcotics on Coach Lane in Cameron Park. He was later released.

11:38 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 44-year-old man suspected of felony probation violations on Front Street in Georgetown. He was listed in custody.

Aug. 28

12:43 a.m. Burglary was reported at an eatery on Mother Lode Drive in Shingle Springs.

7:09 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 30-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled

substance for sale and illegal drug paraphernalia, identity theft, vandalism, transporting a controlled substance and other related charges on Highway 50 at Cambridge Road in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody in lieu of $100,000 bail.

8:42 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Reynolds Lane in Camino.

9:44 a.m. Battery was reported at a business on Francisco Drive in El Dorado Hills.

11:52 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 34-year-old woman suspected of being under the influence of a controlled substance on Park Drive in El Dorado Hills. She was later released.

2:10 p.m. Deputies made an arrest after responding to a report of someone drunk in public on Headington Road in Placerville.

3:41 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 59-year-old woman suspected of being under the influence of a controlled substance on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. She was released on $10,000 bail.

5:33 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a hotel on Greenleaf Drive in Placerville.

6:36 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 60-year-old woman suspected of DUI and possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. She was later released.

9:35 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 39-year-old man suspected of a felony probation violation on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was listed in custody.

10:38 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of DUI causing injury on Sliger Mine Road in Greenwood. He was listed in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail.

■ See CRIME LOG page A3

Richart to serve on state corrections board

News release

Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday, Sept. 8, announced the appointment of El Dorado County Chief Probation Officer Brian Richart to the Board of State and Community Corrections.

“I am deeply honored to receive this appointment,” said Chief Richart. “I’m looking forward to bringing my unique perspective to the BSCC. I believe my experience

in probation and focus on supporting people as they change their lives thereby improving the safety of our communities will be a valuable contribution to the board and to carceral settings and community corrections throughout California.”

Richart was appointed chief in 2013. He assumed that role after serving for three years as chief of staff for probation in Alameda

County and after a 14-year career with the Shasta County Probation Department. He was recently re-appointed by the chief justice of the state Supreme Court to the Family and Juvenile Law Advisory Committee of the California Judicial Council.

Richart is active in statewide policy issues as a member of the Juvenile Advisory Committee for the Chief Probation Officers of California and is considered a juvenile reform advocate in California.

“Chief Richart brings an unparalleled level of experience and will be a

Tahoe foot pursuit ends with guns drawn California Highway Patrol News release

Ashleigh Goodwin

Tahoe Daily Tribune

Adan Eduardo Flores-Pulido, 37, led South Lake Tahoe police officers on a foot pursuit the afternoon of Thursday, Sept. 14, but was detained.

Flores-Pulido was wanted on a felony warrant for domestic violence, according to officials

“Officers recognized Flores-Pulido riding a bicycle near Sussex Avenue and when they attempted to initiate contact he fled across the highway into a marshy area,” said Sgt. Nicholas Carlquist, adding that SLTPD quickly set up a barricade.

After officers drew their sidearms, the suspect turned himself in and police were able to bring Flores-Pulido into custody without further incident.

Flores-Pulido was in jail custody Friday evening, charged with resisting arrest and violating probation. Bail was set at $3,000.

Drones Continued from A1

area for further indications of a fire, including elevated rates of particulate matter and carbon dioxide in the air, and then report any findings to Cal Fire.

“Chemical sensing is more sensitive than visual sensing,” Wexler said. “If you walk around your neighborhood and someone’s burning wood in their fireplace, you don’t see anything, but you smell it.”

For these reconnaissance missions, Kong’s lab is building rotorcraft equipped with navigation systems, sensors and cameras. While one of the benefits of using rotorcraft is that they can land and take off from anywhere, one of the main challenges is a maximum flight duration of about 30 minutes. To combat this issue, Kong’s lab is developing a hybrid aircraft that can land and take off vertically like a rotorcraft, but also has qualities of a fixed-wing aircraft that can cruise at high altitudes for hours.

Catching fires

While many fire departments are using drones to drop water and fire retardants onto blazing fires, they may hesitate to accept the use of UAVs as a fire-detection tool. Cameras, satellites and manned aircraft are already crucial for tracking the spread of wildfires and determining the direction and speed with which they may be moving. Why add UAVs?

The current detection system, Kong and Wexler said, has gaps to fill. The 1,000 cameras set up on towers throughout the state and run by AlertCalifornia can only see a fire when it is within their field of view. Additionally, NASA’s fire-sensing algorithms scan for fires from satellites more than 500 miles above the Earth, making it difficult to determine a fire’s exact location and size.

By the time a fire is caught by these visual sensors and the information is relayed to the proper authorities, it has likely spread to a point where it might be difficult to contain. A manned aircraft still must fly over the fire and assess the situation before action is taken.

If UAVs are used to fly over wildfires, firefighters wouldn’t have to put their lives in danger in that capacity, Kong said. If the drone is overtaken by wildfire smoke and crashes into a tree or mountain, it’s just piece of technology, not a human life.

“Some of these wildfires are inside very challenging terrain, like if they’re inside a very deep valley and you have to fly the aircraft into that, it

Crime log Continued from

Aug. 29

6:21 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 25-year-old man suspected of disorderly conduct, possession of a controlled substance and obstruction on Cold Springs Road in Placerville. He was released on $3,000 bail.

11:50 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 54-year-old man suspected of DUI and possession of a controlled substance on Highway 50 at Shingle Springs Drive in Shingle Springs. He was listed in custody in lieu go $185,000 bail.

12:53 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Terrace Court in El Dorado.

1:44p.m. Vandalism was reported on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

2:24 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 39-year-old man suspected of a probation violation and possession a controlled substance on Coach Lane in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody.

3:57 p.m. Vandalism was reported

A2

on Grizzly Flat Road in Somerset.

7:16 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 33-yearold woman suspected of DUI on Marshall Road in Garden Valley. She was later released.

9:06 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a store on Francisco Drive in El Dorado Hills.

10:41 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville.

Aug. 30

9:20 a.m. Battery was reported on Aragon Court in El Dorado Hills.

10:59 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of illegal cultivation of marijuana and possession of marijuana for sale on Penobscot Road in Garden Valley. He was listed in custody in lieu of $70,000 bail.

11:21 a.m. Illegal entry was reported at a hotel on Greenleaf Drive in Placerville.

huge value to the BSCC board,” said Chief Jennifer Branning, president of the Chief Probation Officers of California. “His extensive experience will add a great amount of depth to the issues before the board and his collaborative approach will be a huge benefit as the BSCC navigates the issues around community corrections.”

Richart was appointed to the position representing a county probation department in a jurisdiction with a population under 200,000, which was recently vacated by Chief Kelly Vernon. The Board of State and

Community Corrections is an independent statutory agency that provides leadership to the adult criminal justice system and juvenile justice system, expertise on public safety realignment and offers technical assistance on a wide range of community corrections issues. Richart’s appointment will fill one of two BSCC board appointments for chief probation officers. Chief Kirk Haynes of Fresno County Probation fills the other chief probation officer appointment for representation from a large county probation department.

CHP focused on safe rides for little ones

The California Highway Patrol is dedicating the third week of September to ensuring California’s youngest motor vehicle passengers are safe and secure while traveling on the state’s roadways.

National Child Passenger Safety Week is Sept. 17-23. The week serves as an opportunity to educate and encourage parents and caregivers to make certain that every child is properly restrained for every trip, facing the correct direction and in the correct safety seat for their age and size.

“Child safety seats, when correctly installed, afford the best protection for infants and young children,” states CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee in a news release. “The CHP has trained child passenger safety technicians available in communities throughout the state, who offer parents and caregivers free, one-on-one instruction and car seat installation to help achieve the best fit for their

can be pretty dangerous,” said Kong. “We’re hoping to demonstrate that using UAVs can dramatically improve their safety.”

After the smoke has (mostly) cleared

Using UAVs to detect fires could also dramatically improve the health of firefighters and people in affected areas. Numerous medical studies link wildfire smoke, which comprises particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicals, to adverse health effects including declines in lung function, inflammation and cardiovascular issues in firefighters. It has also been linked to decreased birthweight and preterm births, increased emergency room visits for pneumonia and acute bronchitis and higher risk of death from COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease in communities where wildfire smoke has been prevalent.

Extreme wildfire events can also cause an extraordinary amount of damage. A 2020 paper analyzing the economic impact of California’s 2018 wildfires, reportedly “the deadliest and among the most destructive of any year in California history up to that time,” found $148.5 billion in damage, including 22,582 structures destroyed, caused by the 8,527 fires that burned 1.9 million acres that year. Wildfires are also part of a climate-warming feedback loop. Environmental changes like increased drought, hotter temperatures and lower humidity are a breeding ground for a greater number of fires that last longer and are more intense. Those fires create greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, contributing to climate change, and the cycle starts over.

Working better together

Kong, Wexler and other researchers know the damage done by wildfires cannot be undone, nor can wildfires be completely prevented. But knowing that we have to live with wildfires, creating this network of early detection could alert Cal Fire and other firefighting agencies to fires earlier so they can begin containment measures before the fires rage out of control, hopefully reducing the damage and deaths caused by them.

The two researchers, along with Jiawei Zhang, assistant professor in the UCD department of

3:15 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 29-year-old man suspected of driving on a suspended licenses and a felony probation violation on Yellowbrick Road in Garden Valley. He was listed in custody in lieu of $60,000 bail.

5:58 p.m. Deputies responded to a person allegedly drunk in public at a gas station on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

7:13 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 29-year-old man suspected of DUI and driving on a suspended license on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was later released.

10:22 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 58-year-old man suspected of DUI on Salmon Falls Road in Pilot Hill. He was released on $5,000 bail.

child.”

Motor vehicle traffic crashes are the leading cause of death of children in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2021 some 711 child passengers ages 12 and younger were killed in motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. and in 2020 more than 63,000 were injured. Of the children who were killed in a crash, 36% were not buckled up.

These deaths can be avoided. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, child safety seats have been shown to reduce fatal injury by 71% for infants (under the age of 1) and by 54% for toddlers (1-4 years old).

The CHP has trained thousands of uniformed and nonuniformed personnel to be child passenger safety technicians since the program began in 1999. CHP CPS techs provide safety seat inspections, education and hands-on training for parents and

computer science, and Avesta Sasan, associate professor in the department of electric and computer engineering, recently proposed their ideas for early wildfire detection to the National Science Foundation and California Climate Investments for funding.

“We are going to use the ground sensor network to predict the high risk, and then the UAVs to patrol the area to find the fire, and then we are going to alert the authorities and fly out,” said Kong. “It has to be satellites, watchtowers, UAVs, manned aircraft, ground sensors, all the mechanisms working together in order to have a system to predict and detect wildfires.”

Dr. Little’s Dental News

Presented by Jeffery Little, D.D.S.

YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPING TEETH

Your child’s dental health begins earlier than you might think. Teeth begin forming in the womb when the fetus is only about six weeks old. At this stage, the basic substance of the teeth is formed. By three to four months the hard tissue that surrounds teeth is formed. After birth, teeth begin coming in between six and twelve months old. Children should start brushing when the first tooth emerges. After about two years, a child’s final baby teeth will emerge (the four second molars). Paying attention to your own dental health during pregnancy will help support your child’s developing teeth. Consuming nutrients like calcium, protein, phosphorus, and vitamins A,

C, and D, will help your baby grow healthy teeth. Taught early enough, healthy habits turn into healthy lifestyles. Begin with proper brushing and flossing techniques and a toothfriendly diet. Continue with regular professional care and cleanings for a beaming smile that will last a lifetime. If you would like more information on how to get your child’s dental experience off to a good start, we welcome your call. We have both children and adults as patients because everyone, regardless of age, deserves a winning smile.

P.S. For many children, the middle teeth on the bottom, called the central incisors, are the first to come in.

In Loving Memory

Eugene R. Olivier

September 17, 1947 - September 17, 2022

It has been a year since (September 17, 2022) you left for a better place where there is no pain, and suffering. I know this was best for you, but it has made me very lonely missing you each and every day. We were not given enough time together, but I cherish each and every moment we had, good and bad. I miss and love you every day. Your loving wife, Madi

bail.

BriAN riChArt

California Matters

Newsom may regret pledges to Black Californians

William Congreve, an English playwright, coined the adage “Married in haste, we may repent at leisure” in his 1693 comedy “The Old Batchelour,” but it quickly evolved into sage advice for other human behaviors.

Letters to the Editor

Malcontents were right

EDITOR:

Religious freedom

EDITOR:

SUMMARY

California Gov. Gavin Newsom could regret hasty political promises to California’s Black population — to appoint a Black woman to the U.S. Senate if a seat becomes vacant and provide meaningful reparations for the state’s woeful history of racial discrimination — that he probably cannot honor.

Newsom made the Senate pledge in early 2021 after appointing Alex Padilla to the Senate, replacing Kamala Harris once she became vice president. The appointment drew criticism from Black political leaders and women’s groups because he was replacing a woman with Black and South Asian ethnic heritage with a Latino man.

Weeks later Newsom was asked by MSNBC host Joy Reid whether he would appoint another Black woman to the Senate should Sen. Dianne Feinstein, su ering from physical and apparently neurological ailments, resign.

“I have multiple names in mind. We have multiple names in mind — and the answer is yes,” Newsom replied, obviously trying to dampen the criticism.

■ See WALTERS, page A5

Guest Column

For years there has been a contingent of Cameron Park residents who attended board meetings and challenged the various boards about the community services district’s budget. Repeatedly these residents warned the CSD board members of the fallacy in regard to their magic thinking about the CSD’s budget. Even when a five-year study commissioned by one of the boards showed a structural deficit of $200,000 a year over the life of the study, no corrective action was taken.

Well the day of reckoning has come. This year Cameron Park has a budget shortfall of $503,173. As a result the board is considering cutting back on the vital emergency services Cal Fire provides.

Most of the past and current board members have patted themselves on the back for the stellar jobs they’ve done in balancing the budget. This balancing act was done with money that the CSD had received on a one-time basis, the return of monies from Cal Fire when it came in under budget and from Cal Fire leasing our fire equipment to other agencies.

So what other solutions is the board using to get Cameron Park out of this financial mess? One of the ways directors are increasing revenue is by charging $214 every time the fire department responds to a 911 call for ambulance services even when the paramedics show up and take over.

The board members that voted for this tax, which disproportionately hits seniors, and passed this tax by wording the meeting agenda item that created this tax in such a manner that it was impossible to tell what the board was voting on.

The board of directors has decided that one of the ways to resolve the CSD’s $503,173 deficit is to stick it to granny. The malcontents were right all along.

GERALD LILLPOP Cameron Park

Iwould like to respond to Mr. Steers’ letter of Sept. 6. Mr. Steer seems to equate criticism of the Board of Supervisors’ decision to designate July as American Christian Heritage Month with anti-Christian sentiment. Supporting the separation of church and state and being antiChristian are two separate issues. While there is certain overlap between the two, it does not make one automatically anti-Christian to believe in the importance of that separation.

Our founders were very wise when it came to religion. They guaranteed the freedom of religion but at the same time, and just as importantly, they guaranteed the separation of church and state. They were fully aware of the religious strife that had plagued Europe, especially since the onset of the Reformation. In order to avoid religious hostilities and avoid discrimination based on one’s religious faith, they knew it was vital for the state not to show any preference for a particular religion. The separation of church and state has served us well and we, as Americans, are lucky because of that separation to have avoided any significant religious conflicts.

I am not a lawyer, but it is clear that the board of supervisors crossed the line of that separation. They are clearly promoting Christianity over other religions. I do not perceive ill intent in that designation; however, as a governmental body, by law, they should not be involved in such a promotion. I suspect that if the board had designated July as Muslim or Jewish Heritage Month, members of our community would not be so supportive of the board and would be at the front of the line to complain. That is the very reason the founders were so adamant that the state show no preference.

Supporting the separation of church and state

■ See LETTERS, page A5

More layoffs coming in insurance industry without reform

San Francisco might not be the only California colossus in a so-called “doom loop.” The property and casualty insurance market is experiencing a crisis of its own and the consequences are dire for the entire state economy.

Here’s one recent example. In August California-based Farmers Insurance laid o 2,400 people, about 11% of its workforce.

Not coincidentally, Farmers announced in July that it would limit its exposure to the California homeowner’s insurance market, shortly after State Farm and Allstate announced they would no longer be writing new homeowner’s policies in the state. These companies don’t see California’s regulatory environment, forest management and wildfire risks and sky-high building costs as a winning formula for their businesses right now. They are acting accordingly.

The California government is certainly a hardy plant. It grows in all conditions and climates, through recessions, booms, busts, month after month, year after year, but

the private sector isn’t immune to economic circumstances. If Farmers, Allstate and State Farm are writing fewer policies, they will need fewer sta . A California slow to recover from its own COVID policies needs more jobs, not fewer. These layo s are only part of the story. Expect to see real estate deals fall apart over fire insurance costs. Expect to see businesses closing when they can’t get or can’t a ord insurance in our state. Expect to see homeowners, especially seniors with paid-o homes but modest incomes, “going bare” on their homes and carrying no property insurance, exposing themselves and their heirs to massive financial risk. Insurance lubricates the economy and when it stops working the economy stops working.

There are some solutions, if the Legislature or even the current Department of Insurance will act on them. They will involve some shortterm pain to consumers, but they o er a path back to a robust market where companies are entering the market, not leaving it, and hiring employees, not laying them o .

It starts with repealing Proposition

103, the 1988 initiative governing property insurance in California.

Its rules are strangling the market. We don’t need insurance companies begging for rate increases from the insurance commissioner, which can take years. We need agile companies that can price risk in the best and timeliest manner to meet consumer needs.

A repeal would also free up insurance companies to use whatever information they can to set their rates. They can’t be tethered exclusively to the past. Past data is important but future catastrophe modeling is critical for companies to comfortably price what they consider the real, current cost of doing business in California.

If insurers set their own rates, it would free the Department of Insurance to go after bad actors and enforce penalties for unlawful and unfair practices and it could do an even better job in its important work examining insurers for financial health, but it shouldn’t act as a rate gatekeeper any longer. It’s contributing to the exodus of insurers in the state and hurting,

not helping, consumers as Prop. 103 intended.

Just as the first pullbacks in insurance coverage were indicators of the future, additional pullbacks like the Farmers job cuts will not be the last. They indicate an unhealthy insurance market in California, fewer premium dollars, less profit, and more layo s in the entire industry. Everyone and everything are fleeing California as it becomes more unlivable, una ordable and now uninsurable.

But it’s within our power to reform our insurance markets. We can’t be afraid to pivot when laws prove failures and we shouldn’t be defeated by rules of our own making. More insurers equal more competition and more choice for consumers. That is how to end the doom loop and is the ultimate solution to the California insurance crisis.

Sen. Ted Gaines (ret.) was elected to represent the Board of Equalization’s First District, providing representation for nearly 10 million constituents in 34 counties of northern, eastern and southern California.

TED GAINES

If insurers set their own rates, it would free the Department of Insurance to go after bad actors and enforce penalties for unlawful and unfair practices …

DAN WALTERS

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s promises to Black Californians about filling U.S. Senate seat and providing reparations for the lingering effects of slavery might be harder to fulfill than he originally thought.

Walters Continued from A4

As Feinstein’s situation continued to deteriorate, she announced earlier this year that she would not seek re-election in 2024. That touched o a contest among three Democratic members of Congress — Katie Porter, Adam Schi and Barbara Lee with the latter, a Black woman, badly trailing the other two.

Newsom’s pledge to appoint a Black woman became a political trap of his own making. If Feinstein resigned he would be pressed by Black leaders to appoint Lee, but if he did, he would be interfering with the election, causing no end of political grief.

Over the weekend, while pressed again by Chuck Todd of Meet the Press, Newsom said he would name a Black woman to fill a vacant Senate seat — but only as a caretaker to fill out Feinstein’s term, meaning it would not be Lee.

If Newsom thought he had resolved the matter, he was mistaken because Lee denounced it, saying, “The idea a Black woman should be appointed only as a caretaker to simply check a box is insulting to countless Black women across this country who have carried the Democratic Party to victory election after election.”

When he signed 2020 legislation to create a commission to recommend reparations for Black Californians, Newsom declared, “Our painful history of slavery has evolved into structural racism and bias built into and permeating

throughout our democratic and economic institutions” and promised, “We won’t turn away from this moment to make right the discrimination and disadvantages that Black Californians and people of color still face.”

However, as the commission completed its work this year and declared that some very hefty financial payments to descendants of slaves would be justified, Newsom became noncommittal.

While praising the commission’s work as “a milestone in our bipartisan e ort to advance justice and promote healing,” he said, “Dealing with that legacy is about much more than cash payments.”

Newsom’s cool response is where matters lie. Members of the commission still expect reparations to include some hard cash but with the state experiencing multi-billion-dollar budget deficits that are likely to persist, anything more than token payments are unlikely.

Meanwhile, a new poll by UC-Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies has found scant support among Californians for cash reparations, even as they recognize the lingering impacts of slavery. Such payments are opposed by 59% of the registered voters surveyed, with Republicans and independents overwhelmingly opposed and Democrats evenly divided.

Newsom is caught between hopes of Black leaders for substantial reparations and the utter

For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550

For Release Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Edited by Will Shortz No. 0816

Crossword

lack of popular support.

Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.

Letters Continued from A4

does not make me anti-Christian nor even antireligious. It makes me extremely grateful that I live in a country where the government leaves the choice of religion up to me. There are many people in this world who are not so fortunate.

SCOTT TAYLOR Placerville

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.

football roundup

El Dorado in win column, trounces Woodland

Isaac Streeter

Staff writer

El Dorado County high schools produced a combined winning record on the gridiron for the first time this season, going 3-1 under the Friday night lights.

Oak Ridge’s Erick Orme Jr. led his Trojans to their fifth consecutive win with his hat trick of touchdowns on the ground in a 31-7 route of the Pleasant Valley Vikings. Orme Jr. has now found paydirt eight times on the year, good enough for second place across the Sierra Foothill League.

The 5-0 Trojans will get a bye week as they turn their sights to a date on the road with league opponent and fellow powerhouse, the 3-1 Folsom Bulldogs Friday, Sept. 29 at 7 p.m.

El Dorado is in the win column for this first time this season, taking down Woodland 39-13. Cougars quarterback Sage Pittman returned to action following a wrist injury that held him out of last week’s loss to East Nicolaus. The junior picked up right where he left off, passing for 198 yards and three scores. His season total of 588 passing yards and nine touchdowns leads the Sierra Valley

Van

Conference. El Dorado, 1-4, now heads into a bye week.

Ponderosa quarterback Austin Sanchez showed his dual threat ability Friday night in a 54-23 win over the Johnson Warriors.

Through the air, the Bruin’s signal caller completed passes to six different receivers for 159 yards and a touchdown, as well as rushing for 138 yards with another score. Sharing the backfield with Sanchez was running back Dylan Alexander, who recorded three touchdowns of his own.

Ponderosa’s defense tallied five turnovers, picking off Johnson’s quarterback three times and recovering two fumbles. The now 2-2 Bruins kick off a threegame home stand, playing host to 3-1 Casa Roble Friday at 7 p.m.

Golden Sierra was shut out for the second time this year in a 27-0 loss to Lindhurst. Game stats were not available for the Grizzlies. They drop to 1-3 headed into a bye week.

The 3-1 Union Mine squad was on a bye this past weekend following a narrow loss to Colfax.

The Diamondbacks will be back in action and looking

Continued from A1

to change his plea following the pretrial hearing, but he is not the only one who will face a decision following the hearing.

As charges include heinous and intentional murder in the first degree and assault of a child resulting in death, El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office staff will have the option to pursue the death penalty in this case. The

for a win on the road at 0-4 Dixon this Friday. The Rams have allowed 126 points this season and allow totals of 321 and 357 rushing yards in their past two contests, a weakness that Union Mine’s stable of backs will look to attack. The Mountain Democrat’s sports section aims to cover much more than just football. If you saw a great game, played in one or have one coming up that you think should be covered, email staff writer Isaac Streeter at isaac@ mtdemocrat.com.

death penalty review team will meet to make that decision after the preliminary hearing, according to Savannah Broddrick, assistant to DA Vern Pierson. Van Streefkerk remains in custody at the El Dorado County Jail in Placerville; given the severity of the charges he faces, he has been determined to be ineligible for bail.

CHP Continued from A3 caregivers year-round.

If you are not confident how to properly secure your child in a safety seat, contact your local CHP Area office and ask to speak with a child passenger safety technician.Go to chp. ca.gov/find-an-office to locate a CHP area office anywhere in California. California law requires children younger than the age of 2, weighing less than 40 pounds or below 40

inches tall, ride in a rear-facing car seat. All children younger than the age of 8 must ride in the back seat in an age-appropriate safety seat. Additionally, it is recommended that all children 13 and younger should ride in the back seat.

For more information about child passenger safety visit chp.ca.gov/ Programs-Services/Programs/ChildSafety-Seats.

Streefkerk

Cougars quarterback Sage Pittman, above, evades the Woodland defense to deliver a pass Friday night. Jesse Morales Beas, left, makes a punt return up field Friday versus Woodland. Morales Beas serves as the Cougars’ kicker, punter and return man, as well as a receiver and defensive back.

Mountain Democrat photos by Isaac Streeter

Volunteers are getting organized for the Great Sierra River Cleanup Sept. 23. Several local river sites have been selected to receive a little TLC.

Mountain Democrat file photo

Pitch in for the Great Sierra River Cleanup

Mountain Democrat staff

In an annual, statewide effort to clean up local waterways, the American River Conservancy is partnering with the Sierra Nevada Alliance and the Coastal Cleanup Commission to participate in the Great Sierra River Cleanup.

On Saturday, Sept. 23 the American

Rebate Continued from A1

filers earning up to $200,000 qualified. The rebates for battery-powered cars varied from $7,500 for lower-income households to $2,000 for higher incomes.

Experts say the old program has been a key driver for helping Californians transition to electric cars. But now that the vehicles have become mainstream, the state will shift the emphasis to helping people who can’t afford their high price tags.

“The goal here is not to eliminate options for one group of motorists at the expense of another, but to assist those who’ve been unable to purchase a cleaner vehicle and to broaden and deepen the state’s ZEV (zero-emission vehicle) fleet. We need everyone possible to afford a ZEV, and this has been part of the plan to do that for a number of years,” said air board spokesman David Clegern.

The program called Clean Cars 4 All will be expanded statewide next year; it currently is available only in the five largest air districts. The revamped program will give people statewide who meet the income requirements up to $12,000 to scrap and replace their older gas-powered cars with cleaner alternatives. Those not getting rid of an older car can qualify for up to $7,500 in purchase grants.

Car buyers also may qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for some vehicles, with income restrictions of $150,000 for individuals and $300,000 for married couples filing jointly.

Bill Magavern, policy director of the Coalition for Clean Air, a Los Angelesbased advocacy group, said the state will “democratize clean transportation” with its more targeted subsidies.

“It is time for (the state rebate) to go away,” Magavern said. “When EVs were considered to be exotic and strange and out of reach for most people, it was important to have this broadbased rebate. But now EVs have gone mainstream.”

But some car dealers worry that ending the rebate for middle-to–higher income Californians might discourage people from buying the cars.

Jessie Dosanjh, president of the California Automotive Retailing Group, a network of dealerships in the San Francisco Bay Area where about 20% of sales are electric vehicles, said the cars are still relatively expensive compared to other options.

Still, he said he understands why the state is shifting its focus to low-tomiddle-income consumers.

“As we’re moving into more mass adoption, I think it’s critical to have that income-based structure, because it opens up the market to some people who might be on the fringe, and not be able to afford it due to income limitations,” Dosanjh said.

The average price of an electric car was $53,469 in July, about 18% lower than a year earlier. The industry average for all 2023 cars in July was about $48,300.

The Clean Vehicle Rebate Project has issued half a million rebates worth $1.2 billion. And the program remains wildly popular, hitting a record 14,000 applications in July, the air board said.

Now its website announces: “Funds for CVRP are nearly exhausted. Applications received on or after September 6, 2023, will be placed on a standby list and are not guaranteed a rebate.”

“While it is disappointing to see the most successful incentive program in history end, the march toward eliminating traditional (rebates) and directing the very limited funding to equity programs has been clear for several years now,” said Steve Douglas, a vice president at the Alliance for

River Conservancy plans to host cleanup sites along the South Fork American River, its tributaries and the Cosumnes River.

Volunteers are needed. Sign up at bit.ly/ARCrivercleanup to join clean up efforts along Hangtown Creek, Greenwood Creek, at HenningsenLotus Park, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park or other sites.

COMiCS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

Automotive Innovation, an auto industry group.

The goal: Making electric cars affordable for everyone

California is trying to electrify its 25 million cars, clean up its severe air pollution and reduce the state’s reliance on fossil fuels. To do so, the state is mandating that 35% of new 2026 car models sold in California must be zeroemissions, climbing to 68% in 2030 and 100% in 2035.

For the mandate to succeed, the government has to ensure that people throughout the state, in all income levels, can afford electric cars.

But a CalMatters’ statewide analysis of ZIP codes earlier this year showed extreme disparities in electric car ownership. Communities with mostly white and Asian high-income residents have the state’s highest concentrations of zero-emission cars. In stark contrast, California ZIP codes with the largest percentages of Latino and Black residents have extremely low proportions of electric cars — many with no electric cars at all.

Income seems to be the main driver of the disparities, according to CalMatters’ analysis. Most median household incomes in the top 10 ZIP codes for electric cars exceeded $200,000, much higher than the statewide $84,097.

Dosanjh, from the Bay Area car dealership group, said early adopters were often higher-earning people who worked in the technology industry, or at least technology enthusiasts. But these days he said he sees more people buying electric cars to replace their gaspowered vehicles, rather than having them as novelty and luxury items.

More than 1.6 million zero emission vehicles have been sold in California; one out of four cars sold during the second quarter of this year were zero emissions.

Erich Muehlegger, a professor of economics at UC Davis, said the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project has been “the main workhorse to encourage people to buy zero-emissions vehicles.”

But the rebate program has been subject to inconsistent and inadequate funding, according to CalMatters reporting. Last year the program was flooded with requests for the money, resulting in long waits.

In addition, the various state programs were confusing to Californians. Now they can apply in one place.

“Closing out the (rebate) program has been the plan for some time, and in 2015 the decision was made that when ZEVs reached 16% of new vehicle sales would be the point where that would happen. We let it run longer (25%) just to ensure we had a healthy market,” Clegern said.

“The state concluded that shifting financing to Californians who may have been left out of the ZEV market because of their income is the right thing to do and also deepens the market,” he said.

The program that will be expanded, Clean Cars 4 All, has assisted lowto-middle-income households as well as families who live in what areas designated as “disadvantaged communities,” with low socioeconomic status as well as environmental risks.

The new program will be rolled out with a revamped financing assistance program for buyers.

The money comes from the state’s greenhouse gas reduction fund, which raises money by selling carbon allowances to pollution-emitting businesses, as well as money from the state’s budget.

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis

n TODAy

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You know fun; you seek fun; you are fun. Because of this, you take risks, initiate games and captivate the attention of others. The conversations will be lively, and people get to know one another because of you.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You know more than you think. You can’t share what you don’t realize yourself. Write down and organize your thoughts. It will make you aware of how deep your knowledge really is, and possibly even awe you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The reason you don’t complain isn’t saintly; it’s just practical. If you waste time talking about what’s wrong, you won’t have as much energy to channel toward righting it. You’re busy nurturing your brighter facets.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Remember when you were sad to lose a situation, and then unexpectedly happier than ever after it was gone? Once again, you’re hanging on to something that seems nice but is putting a limit on your mood. Spot it and drop it.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You have pure intent. You love people and you want to help them. Because of this, you’ll have more impact than you know. The interaction may be small, but the heart you put into it will make a difference.

Some people cannot relate to what you’re doing because they have neither similar experience nor the imagination to make the leap. Seeing your presentation through their eyes will give you objectivity. You’ll spot what’s

unimportant.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Those with a future should avoid those with a past. The benefit of the doubt isn’t a right or privilege; it’s a gift. Today, any pressure from others to “just trust me” is a red flag.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You pull your energy back, a move that creates space, light and, ultimately, health in a relationship. You can also see clearly from the distant vantage. The more you understand, the better you will be understood.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You are in the group, but you stand out as an individual, too. People will want to know, like and be like you today. Use your influence to attract a deal, date, customer or friend.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). If the change is coming, it’s not coming fast enough for you. You can barely detect the movement. This is a watched pot that won’t boil until you walk away. Set a timer and come back to it.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). What you wear will affect your destiny because the way you feel in an outfit will contribute significantly to your confidence. In a fancy suit, you’ll feel empowered to suit your fancy.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). In the past, you were accused of being too sensitive. You now know that this same sensitivity is the reason you can understand a scene in-depth, feel a wider range of joy and sorrow and create emotional experiences for others.

Mountain Democrat photos by Isaac Streeter Union Mine

Maisie

Jennifer

attempts to pull her flag. The school switched things up Friday night with Powder Puff football that sent Diamondbacks football roster to the sideline as cheerleaders and coaches.

Powder Play

Isaac Streeter

Staff writer

Union Mine’s varsity football team may have been on a bye last weekend but the Snake Pit’s gridiron still saw action Friday night.

The annual Powder Puff football tournament saw the ladies of Union Mine take to the field as football players traded jerseys for pompoms and helmets for clipboards as they manned the sidelines to coach and cheerlead.

The tournament kicked off with a battle between sophomores and freshmen. The sophomores won the game handily, taking a 21-0 victory

over their younger challengers.

Kathryn Murphy scored a touchdown as well as hauled in an interception to propel her squad to the championship game. Both juniors and seniors entered the stadium with large speakers on their shoulders but it was the seniors who would emerge with the victory, 21-7. Seniors found success on the ground with both Jennifer Wylie and Savannah Warman carrying the ball to great effect en route to the win.

Union Mine’s senior class took the tournament victory 7-0 in a defensive battle with the sophomores. Wylie was the lone player to score in the championship match.

UM

senior

Wylie carries the ball upfield while

McVeigh

Seniors run the ball in their matchup versus the juniors.

Union Mine boys from all grades, above, broke out the tutus and pom poms as cheerleaders for the game.

Powder Puff coaches Christian Grant, Jayden Tinker and Antonio Hausam, from left, right photo, lead their squad of senior girls into their first round matchup with the juniors.

In the KNOW

Sept. 20

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 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

Sierra Wildlife Rescue hosts its Wildlife Bazaar Yard Sale and Food Festival 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sept. 22 and 9 a.m. to noon

Sept. 23 at 777 Pleasant Valley Road on Diamond Springs. All proceeds support programs to help injured wildlife.

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.

1850 Wine Cellars in Placerville hosts Wine, Dine & Vibe, 6-8:30 p.m., featuring live music by L84DNR and a Caribbean inspired pre fixe dinner menu by Chef Lisa Scott. For tickets and more information visit 1850winecellars.com/ pages/events.

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) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Tech Trek takes future leaders on a scientific journey

Connie Zelinsky & Laurel Gromer Special

The American Association of University Women invites the public to a presentation by this year’s Tech Trek campers.

What is Tech Trek? Tech Trek is a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) camp for seventhgrade girls.The goal of Tech Trek is to introduce girls to the possibility of careers in STEM fields and to build confidence in their own abilities to excel in these areas. Statistically girls’ participation in STEM subjects drops around seventh grade. Surveys show girls who have been to Tech Trek Camp, either on campus or online, show a significantly stronger interest in continuing taking STEM classes and a greater awareness of STEM’s impact on their daily lives.

Every year AAUW asks middle school science teachers in El Dorado County to nominate seventh-grade girls who show a genuine curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM. This year 10 local middle school girls were selected to attend the weeklong science camp. Six girls went to Tech Trek camp at University of California, Davis along with 100 other girls from Northern California. Four other girls participated in the week-long Tech Trek online robotics camp. Past Tech Trek campers have come back as junior counselors and support staff at both the UC Davis camp and the virtual robotics camp.

In the mornings, girls on the university campus took classes in anatomy, astronomy and space travel, storytelling with data, engineering and wearable technology. In the afternoon they had workshops that included tours of the UC Davis Veterinarian School, the Chemistry Department and the Food Innovation Laboratory. In the evenings they had special events such as the professional women’s night. The girls interviewed women who had careers in criminology, veterinary medicine, structural engineering, food science and more.

Virtual campers had their own hands-on STEM projects using equipment and materials provided by AAUW. For the final robotic project the girls used their own materials to make an object that represented their personal values, interests and strengths and featured lights and moving parts. They did their projects with girls from all over the state and also met women in science careers virtually.

AAUW celebrates Tech Trek participants with a luncheon and impressive presentations by the girls who participated, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at the Faith Episcopal

n See Tech Trek, page B5

Day hiker

Glacier Meadow Loop

Glacier Meadow Loop Trail in Donner is an easy, half-mile loop at 7,200 feet elevation. But this trail is so much more as it connects to the Pacific Crest Trail (spanning from Mexico to Canada) and many other trails in the area. The rock formations and views of the surrounding peaks makes this a great trail any time of year. In spring it is home to abundant wildflowers, ferns, grasses and, of course, a forest of trees.

My sons love this hike because there is so much to explore.

Ponds and lakes, boulders, downed trees and a mostly flat area to wander. I enjoy the meadows, often wet with melted snow. The seasonal grasses and wildflowers are great for someone like me who can’t take enough pictures.

Glacier Meadow Loop trail is a great area for a picnic lunch

atop a boulder with views of Castle Peak.

The trail is a popular sledding and snowshoe area in winter. During winter you do need a parking pass as it is very popular. But in summer there is free parking just past Boreal Ski Resort off the Castle Peak exit of eastbound Interstate 80. Take the exit and continue east along the frontage road to the parking area. Bathrooms and trail maps are located here as well. This is a very popular hiking trail year around. Dogs are welcome on a leash. The tall pines provide much shade on the trail. Over the years

Day Hiker

we have used this spot as the starting point for many hikes. Glacier Meadow Loop trail is a great starter trail for someone new to alpine hiking or maybe for your out-of-town family and friends visiting this season. An even better excuse to hike this trail, if you need one,

n See Day hiker, page B5

Mary West Outdoor columnist

Photo by Mary West Glacier Meadow Loop has great spots for a picnic lunch atop a boulder with views of Castle Peak.

to the Mountain Democrat

Courtesy photos Tech Trek camper Lily, above, practices a mock blood transfusion at a UC Davis workshop. At left, trekkers work together to inflate a sheep’s lung in the Tech Trek anatomy core class.

graphic novelist returns home for tahoe comic con

Tahoe Daily Tribune

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — Comic book creator/ writer/artist Chris Wisnia grew up in South Lake Tahoe in the 1980s, so it’s apt he’s coming home to celebrate his new graphic novel, “Doris Danger: GIANT MONSTERS Amok,” as a special guest at the first ever Lake Tahoe Comic Con planned at the Tahoe Blue Event Center, Sept. 23 & 24. Wisnia has been writing and drawing comics professionally since 2004 and his new graphic novel is

published by the awardwinning alternative comics company, Fantagraphics. Its website boasts, “Publisher of the World’s Greatest Cartoonists.” It’s no exaggeration; “Love and Rockets” (which the company has published since its inception) was voted Rolling Stone’s “greatest American Comic Book Series of All Time,” and next year sees the release of Fantagraphics’ Complete Peanuts by Charles Schulz, volume 22. To celebrate the release of “Doris Danger: GIANT

MONSTERS Amok,”

Wisnia has set up signing dates around California and even at the Small Press Expo in Washington, D.C., and will travel more next year. This summer, down at San Diego Comic Con (the Mecca of comic book conventions), Fantagraphics sold all the Doris Danger copies brought to the show.

“I still know a lot faces in Tahoe because I still see them up there, on all my social media,” Wisnia said. “But all our high school reunions have been thwarted, first by the pandemic, and then by the fires. I’m overdue to come out and see everybody; old friends, community members, and I’m excited to catch up with everybody and be able to do it in a way I can share what I’ve been up to.” Wisnia’s grandparents bought a home in South Lake Tahoe in the 1970s and his parents began regularly bringing the family up from the Bay Area to visit. They loved it so much, they swapped homes with the grandparents and spent whole vacation weeks off school and even whole summers there.

Still living in the Bay, they bought a Tahoe vacation house in 1979, right at the top of a sledding hill, and then they made a whacky decision to transfer the kids into the Tahoe school district for four weeks of the winter quarter so they could Courtesy graphic

n See Wisnia page B5

Learn how to get and care for native plants

Kathleen Barco News release

It’s a common experience. You purchase what you hope will become a beautiful native shrub in your yard. It’s in a pot, you take it home and then you realize you haven’t the faintest idea how best to care for it, where to plant it, how much to water it and whether you should fertilize it. To assist those who want to grow native plants but need help in planting and caring for them, the El Dorado Chapter of the California Native Plant Society will provide hands-on experience in just that — right before the CNPS Fall Plant Sale.

The next general meeting will take place in person at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23, in the Nature Nook native plant garden next to the county library in Placerville. The Fall Plant Sale will commence Oct. 1 (details below) and give people a chance to acquire the plants they want.

On Sept. 23 attendees will learn how to select the right plant for the right place and how to assess and prepare soil for native plants. Volunteers will be able to dig a hole and place a plant in the ground. They will also learn when and how to water. Native plants are famous

for being water-wise but they do need some moisture. There also will be a brief discussion of the best plant choices for containers.

The plant sale will begin at 10 a.m. Oct. 1 and end at 5 p.m. Oct. 7. All ordering and purchasing will be done online at shop. eldoradocnps.org.

Plant pick-up will be on Saturday, Oct. 14, at the El Dorado County Government Center Building C parking lot in Placerville. Before the sale opens people are

encouraged to look at the list of plants on the website (not all may be available) to make a list of first choices. People are also encouraged to visit the CNPS website Calscape.org, a database of native plants where they can easily identify a list of what will grow best in their ZIP code. Calscape also offers a California garden planner and planting guide.

Plant sales are the primary source of funds

Chris Wisnia’s character Doris Danger explores the exotic globe, hoping to prove the existence of wonky-looking, retro GIANT MONSTERS wearing underpants.

Photo by Christine Johnson

California flannelbush (Fremontodendron californicum) is one of many native plants gardeners can add to the yards. Learn more about native plants at a Sept. 23 EDC-CNPS meeting.

So you want to be a Master Gardener?

Do you have a passion for gardening?

Do you love learning about anything to do with gardening and find yourself talking about gardening a lot with friends and family or even complete strangers? Do you like teaching others about gardening? If these questions describe you, becoming a Master Gardener volunteer may be a good fit.

Sue

What actually is UC Master Gardeners? It is a volunteer organization under the umbrella of the University of California that assists home gardeners by providing research-based information on a wide variety of gardening issues.

There are many activities in which Master Gardeners in our county participate. We present free public classes on a wide variety of home gardening subjects throughout the year, including lectures and/ or hands-on demonstrations. We sta a help desk at our o ce where people can call about gardening problems and also walk in with samples of plant problems. We have information booths at county farmers markets as well as the county fair each year. We write weekly gardening articles in various publications

throughout the year. We provide speakers for various organizations throughout the county. We participate in the annual Farm Day for school children each year. We hold annual plant sales in April of each year to help fund our crown jewel, the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, which has 16 themed gardens and is open to the public March through November on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.

As you can see, there are many areas of home gardening that a UC Master Gardener can choose to be actively engaged in.

If you feel this is a program you want to become involved in, a training class for new UC Master Gardeners is scheduled to begin on Jan. 11, 2024, and end May 16, 2024. The classes meet once a week either in the classroom, via virtual classes or out in the field for hands-on learning, and many are taught by university instructors. The classes are intensive and you must complete all sessions and pass a written test before becoming a Master Gardener. Plan to attend one of our two orientation meetings to explain more about the program; the first is scheduled 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21. at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden and the second is at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 5, also at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden.

There is also an oral interview of applicants and if accepted into the training program, a $250 fee is required to cover class materials. For more detailed information visit ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_Master_ Gardeners and click on About Us at the top of the page, then Becoming a Master Gardener. This site will give you all the information you need.

Save the date: Oct. 21 is Fall Into Gardening at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 9 a.m. to noon. This family event o ers a plethora of fun learning opportunities from Master Gardeners and other community partners. Master Gardener classes are o ered

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 o ce 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.

Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards ignite possibilities

News release

Soroptimist International of Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills seeks grant applications from women who serve as the primary earners for their families and require financial assistance to continue their education or training.

Women can apply for the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award. Applications are available at bit.ly/ LYDA-apply. The application deadline is Nov. 15. Soroptimist CP/EDH will provide cash grants to its award recipients up to $2,500. The top winner’s name will then advance to the Soroptimist Sierra

Nevada Region level where she could receive up to an additional $5,000. Recipients may use the Live Your Dream Award to o set any costs associated with their e orts to attain higher education or additional skills and training. This includes tuition, books, childcare, carfare or other education-related expenses.

Nationally, each year the Live Your Dream Award provides more than $2.7 million in education grants to thousands of women, many of whom have overcome enormous obstacles, including poverty, homelessness, domestic violence and/or substance use disorder. These cash grants continue to instill

pride in head-of-household women in need who showed the courage to change their lives. Since the program’s inception in 1972, the grants have distributed more than $39 million and helped tens of thousands of women achieve their dreams of a better life for themselves and their families.

Founded in 1981, the Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills club is part of Soroptimist International of the Americas, a global organization that works to improve the lives of women and girls through educational programs leading to social and economic empowerment. For more details visit soroptimist.org or sicpedh.org or call (916) 933-8205.

McDavid UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

Courtesy photos

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County participate in a wide variety of programs dedicated to gardening.

California Capital Airshow soars to new heights

MATHER — The 17th annual California Capital Airshow, presented by Sacramento County in partnership with the city of Rancho Cordova, returns Sept. 23 & 24 at Mather Airport in Sacramento.

The two-day event will feature performances from some of the world’s most thrilling aircraft, featuring the renowned United States Air Force Thunderbirds jet demonstration team, and attendees will have the opportunity to explore 171 acres of aircraft displays and exhibits on the ground.

Gates to this massive aviation festival are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day with flying performances from noon to 4 p.m.

Exhilarating performances will include the U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team, the return of the U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster Demonstration, U.S. Navy F-18 Super Hornet and an awe-inspiring lineup of world-class civilian aerobatic performers, including a

selection of vintage World War II aircraft.

“The airshow will offer an incredible lineup of aircraft and performers from all over the world,” said Darcy

Brewer, executive director of California Capital Airshow.

“Our team works all year long to put on an event that the community will love and we’ve added even more

exhibits and experiences for attendees to enjoy this year.”

In partnership with the Rancho Cordova Barrel District, the airshow is debuting “The Hangar”

Chalet, a ticketed area within the airshow where attendees will receive a commemorative tasting glass and seven 4-ounce pours from four local breweries, one hard kombucha, one meadery and one distillery. The area will have seating, food trucks and the option to purchase additional Barrel District partner beverages throughout the event.

Also new this year is a free community event to kick-off the airshow weekend, 6-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, at Village Green Park in Rancho Cordova. Attendees can meet airshow performers, including the USAF Thunderbirds, and enjoy live music, food trucks, activities provided by local organizations and chances to win free airshow tickets and swag. Tickets for the airshow are on sale now. The public can access discounted tickets and sign-up to receive festival updates as an Airshow Insider at californiacapitalairshow. com. No tickets will be available onsite airshow weekend.

File photo by Larry Weitzman

Canadian Snowbirds show off with a close knit, aerial ballet in their CT-114 Tudor side-by-side trainers at a previous California Capital Airshow at Mather Airport. This year’s event runs Sept. 23 & 24.

Know Continued

Sept. 23

from

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts Greenhouse Gardening, 9 a.m. to noon at the El Dorado Hills CSD Teenz Center. Learn what kind of structures and materials work best for growing from seed and beyond, what accessories are a must for success and a hands-on demonstration of how to sow seeds.

The Placerville Arts Association hosts its 2023 Artists Open Studio Tour, Sept. 23 & 24. For map and complete details go to paastudiotour. com.

Check out the Handblown Glass Pumpkin Patch at Delfino Farms in Camino, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 23 & 24. See demonstrations and find one-of-a-kind pieces. For more information visit handblownglasspumpkinpatch.com.

The Encore Living retreat is being offered to help answer: What are you going to do with the rest of your life? 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 the community. 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. Register by sending an email to revdebra.oursaviour@gmail.com with “Encore Retreat” in the subject line. Lunch will be served. Donations will be taken at the door.

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 Lunch 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.

Stone Planet will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50

Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference hosts its Endless Summer Beach Party 5-9 p.m. at Village Green Park in Serrano, El Dorado Hills. The adults-only Polynesianthemed 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 hands4hopeyouth.org/ EndlessSummer.

Girls Night Out Flower Power 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 Ambiance and Robinson’s Pharmacy.

Sierra Vista Winery in the Pleasant Valley area hosts Petty Jack Flash, 5:30-8 p.m. For more information call (530) 622-7221 or visit sierravistawinery.com.

Gwinllan Estate in the Fair Play area hosts a Harvest Celebration with a rib cook-off, 6-10 p.m. RSVP by calling (530) 723-2879 or emailing info@gwinllanestate.com.

enjoy a locals’ Tahoe winter. The following year, they did it again for seven weeks. By 1981 they wondered why they kept going back to the Bay, and finally decided to move the family permanently to South Lake Tahoe. This was before comics shops had appeared in Tahoe so Wisnia spent years of his formative life begging his parents to take him to the local grocery stores, pharmacies and fiveand-dime shops (that are now all long gone), going through spinner racks (also a thing of the past) and picking out the magical comic he wanted to take home with him. This was back when comics cost 60 cents an issue. At home, he pored over

CNPS Continued from B2

Wisnia Continued from B2 for the work of EDC – CNPS.

The California Native Plant Society is a nonprofit organization working to save and celebrate California’s native plants and places via plant science, advocacy, education and horticulture. CNPS has nearly 10,000 members in 35 chapters throughout California

Day Hiker

is getting up the hill usually means cooler temperatures.

Continued from B1

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

Tech Trek

Continued from B1

Church, 2200 Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. Tickets are $25. Proceeds go to scholarships for 2024 campers. To make reservations contact Norma at (530 )2959056 or Laurel at (530) 417-7737. Donations can be made by sending checks to Norma, AAUW Foothills Treasurer, 3078 Edith Court, Placerville, CA 95667.

them and copied his favorite images, or made up his own characters and stories. The years passed and Wisnia graduated from South Tahoe High School, voted “class clown,” class of 1990.

He trickled down the hill to University of California, Davis to get a degree in studio art, where the academic atmosphere didn’t yet socially accept or appreciate comics. Upon graduating, he found himself working next door to a comics shop that enticed his interests.

His first published comic book was Tabloia Weekly Magazine, which he self-published for five issues and featured his plucky photo-journalist,

and Baja. The El Dorado Chapter of CNPS is active in educating about as well as identifying and protecting the many endemic plants of the area. To learn more about native plants and CNPS visit cnps.org or the new and redesigned El Dorado County chapter website at eldoradocnps.org.

her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond.

West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best

Freelance

Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. You can follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

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Doris Danger, who explores the exotic globe, hoping to prove the existence of wonky-looking, retro GIANT MONSTERS wearing underpants, as inspired by (and as a parody of) the pre-super hero comics of Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko and Stan Lee (the creative team who shortly after created practically the entire Marvel Universe). That led to Wisnia’s publishing three Doris Danger graphic novels for SLG Publishing and then further up the industry ladder to this allnew book with Fantagraphics (see the publisher’s book description at fantagraphics.com/products/dorisdanger-giant-monsters-amok). Those

Have

Public Notices 

who are fans of giant monsters may have also noticed Wisnia’s artwork in the Criterion eight-disc blu ray box set of “Godzilla” (criterion.com/ films/29345-terror-of-mechagodzilla.

At the Lake Tahoe Comic Con, Wisnia said he looks forward to hanging out at his booth all weekend long, selling and signing his books, seeing familiar and new faces or just talking about comics. The con features costumes, vendors, other comics creators, Hollywood guests and an amateur cosplay contest with cash prizes.

For more details visit laketahoecon. com; Purchase tickets at ticketmaster. com or at the door.