Mountain Democrat, Monday, September 2022

FPPC rejects conflict complaint

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

The Fair Political Practices Commission has dropped a conflict of interest inquiry of District 3 Supervisor Wendy Thomas and will not pursue the case further.

The Fair Political Practices Commission brought the anonymous complaint to Thomas’ attention July 27, a day before the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors was to vote on an agenda item that would further plans to construct a navigation center/homeless shelter on Perks Court just outside of Placerville city limits o Highway 50.

The complaint cited Thomas’ “ownership interest” in commercial buildings on Broadway, stating the supervisor would benefit financially by voting on a facility that would help move homeless individuals from upper Broadway, where there is a homeless encampment.

The complaint halted the board’s decision July 28 while Thomas recused herself from the agenda item requiring a 4-1 vote.

Thomas proceeded to hire an attorney and the complaint was rejected Sept. 7 after following up with the FPPC.

“This baseless and anonymous complaint was nothing more than a nasty political hit piece meant to discredit me and derail plans for a navigation

center,” Thomas told the Mountain Democrat in an email. “Dirty politics continued days later when Placerville was blanketed with flyers filled with blatant and outright lies designed to further insert civil unrest to stop this solution to address homelessness.”

The flyer she referred to, sponsored by the El Dorado County Republican Central Committee, states the plan would provide “housing with no accountability,” would allow drug use on the premises and have free paraphernalia provided by Sierra Harm Reduction Coalition.

County leaders stated previously the facility would have been a drug-free site and have wrap-around services, including drug and alcohol treatment.

Thomas, who said she is a registered Republican and has long worked to provide solutions to homelessness, further called those tactics against the navigation center “a new level of ugly politics” in the community.

Although the Perks Court navigation center didn’t get the needed majority vote to move forward at the Board of Supervisors’ Aug. 23 meeting, where Thomas cast a ‘yes’ vote, the county found another solution in utilizing 299 Fair Lane in Placerville, the old juvenile hall site.

County to buy Tahoe property

Noel Stack Managing editor

El Dorado County will get a new government campus in South Lake Tahoe. Tuesday the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors approved the $7.5 million purchase of four buildings on two parcels currently owned

by Barton Health, the Tahoe Basin's nonprofit healthcare provider.

District 5 Supervisor Sue Novasel, who represents the Tahoe Basin, could hardly wait to make the motion, which was unanimously approved. She called the purchase at 1111 and 1119 Emerald Bay Road in South Lake Tahoe the “cherry on top” of her final term.

“This has been a long time coming,” Novasel said. “It’s very exciting.”

“We have been talking for several years about how to get out of our (Tahoe) El Dorado Center; that’s an endof-life building,” agreed Laura Schwartz, deputy chief administrative o cer, who also noted that rebuilding at the current location proved to be cost-prohibitive.

The new buildings o er nearly 17,500 square feet of space,

Undercrossing ready to roll

Mountain Democrat staff

The undercrossing at Ponderado Road in Camino Heights is complete and will be open to tra c beginning today, according to a news release from Caltrans. Camino Heights Drive at Highway 50 was permanently closed to left-turn tra c Thursday.

The undercrossing is part of the $55.4 million Camino Safety Project that also includes 3 miles of a 56-inch-high center median barrier and a wildlife crossing. Work began in October 2020.

Repairs on the median barrier will continue as will highway grinding to meet smoothness specifications, states the news release.

The overcrossing bridge deck is scheduled for final paving this week with smoothness corrections required over the next several weeks. Motorists can expect day and nighttime lane closures on the bridge until mid-October.

Permanent striping, sign installation and erosion control work also remain to be completed.

Caltrans o cials note all work on the project is expected to completed by the end of the year.

EDH Fire getting rescue boat

Noel Stack Managing editor

El Dorado County will contribute $204,000 toward the purchase of a 23-foot, open-bow lake rescue boat with firefighting capabilities for the El Dorado Hills Fire Department.

“The boat will be a 23-foot, open-bow lake rescue boat with firefighting capability,” EDH Fire Chief Maurice Johnson told the Mountain Democrat. “It will have the capacity to carry four to eight patients in addition to the crew. The boat will have sonar, radar and FLIR (forward looking infrared), which will allow the crew to have up to 1 mile visibility in total darkness.”

The request came during the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors’ 2022-23 budget discussion Sept. 20. EDH Fire Deputy Chief Mike Lilienthal asked supervisors to include funding in the final budget, noting that the boat will be used by “El Dorado Hills predominantly but … if there’s a request for help, for any resource we have, we share those resources. It happens every single day.”

The boat for which the fire department requested funding will be

The El Dorado Hills Fire Department is looking to purchase a lake rescue boat with firefighting capabilities similar to the watercraft pictured above, which will primarily be used on Folsom Lake. The county has agreed to cover more than $200,000 of the cost.

The EDH Fire Department responds to emergencies at Folsom Lake, including this boat fire, left photo, in which two people suffered burns.

The county has pledged to fund a new boat for the department to better serve victims of an emergency.

Courtesy photos

“available for any water rescue call that happens in the county,” Lilienthal continued, noting it’s

expected to mainly serve during emergencies at

Photos courtesy of Steve Nelson/Caltrans

The roundabout and undercrossing at Ponderado Road at Highway 50 in Camino is expected to open to traffic today.

The bridge over Ponderado Road will get a final layer of pavement this week.

Dian Rae Graves

Oct. 18, 1933 – Sept. 4, 2022

Dian Rae Graves was born in Seattle, Wash. on Oct. 18, 1933 to Edwin and Helen Eckern. She was the oldest of two daughters. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1951.

She graduated from Washington State College and was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority.

On April 7, 1956, she married Warren Lee Graves in Seattle, Wash. They relocated to Livermore and Los Gatos for a short time until they settled into their home in Los Altos in 1965.

With loving hearts, Warren and Dian adopted their three children. Kirk Eaton Graves, Dara Lee Graves (Bellino) and Teresa Ray Graves (James).

Dian loved being a “stay at home” mother to raise their three children until she decided to go back to work as an o ce manager in the hotel industry in 1976 then worked for a law firm in Palo Alto.

Warren and Dian were active members of St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church in Mountain View for many years and were active volunteers servicing for those in need.

Upon retiring in 1991, Warren and Dian relocated to Georgetown, Calif. where they built their dream log home. They soon joined the El Dorado Sams RV group and spent much of their days creating friendships and traveling. They were active members of Faith Episcopal Church along with other social groups within the area.

After Warren passed away in September 2011, Dian continued with her social functions, going to church, senior lunches, and traveling and playing cards with friends.

Dian passed away peacefully on Sept. 4, surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Dian is survived by her children Kirk Graves, Dara Bellino and Teresa James (Ken), her grandchildren, Kyle Graves (Nicole), Cameron Graves (Hannah), Luke Heebner, Katie Graves and Kevin Graves, along with six great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years Warren Graves and her sister Molly O’Leary.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Faith Episcopal Church in Cameron Park on Oct. 22, at 11 a.m. Her ashes will be interred at Chico Cemetery in the Eaton family plot.

If you are moved to make a memorial gift in Dian’s name, the family recommends Snowline Hospice of El Dorado County, or Faith Episcopal Church.

Eugene R. (Ollie) Olivier Sept. 17, 1947 - Sept. 17, 2022

Johanna and Raymond Olivier, of Stickney, S.D., brought Gene into this world on Sept. 17. He grew up in Stickney, working on the family farm and later moved to California when he was 17. Gene was known to many as Geno, Ollie, Pa Gene, Popa and Pops. He is survived by his wife, Madiliene; son, Robert Olivier of Oakdale, Calif.; daughter, Jolene (Jimmy) Trulli of Placerville, Calif.; son, Heath Cantrell of Auburn, Calif.; sister, Nancy (Chuck) Vandever of South Dakota; brothers, Rodney (Marlene ) Olivier, of South Dakota, David (Nancy) Olivier of lowa, Calvin (Jeannie) Olivier of South Dakota; granddaughters, Jordyn and Jaryn Trulli and Sydney Cantrell, and grandsons, Ty and Logan Olivier; along with his nephews, nieces and cousins. Gene is preceded in death by his first wife, Cheree Olivier; daughter, Heather Cantrell Cole; and his parents and many other aunts, uncles and friends.

He was a Navy veteran serving in the Vietnam Crisis 1964-68 on the USS Enterprise; a long-time concrete truck driver (driving for Henningson’s Concrete and then Sierra Ready Mix). Gene was a huge fan of car racing as his son-in-law Jimmy Trulli drives sprint cars. In his younger years he loved the rodeo, riding bareback broncs and bulls. He was an avid bowler and loved to play poker. He was a faithful fan of the 49ers and the San Francisco Giants. One of his favorite pastimes was watching sports on TV.

He also was a huge supporter of his grandchildren in all of their many sports at Union Mine High School. For the last seven years or so he battled with COPD, and other lung/heart disease. He took his last breath at home knowing his family was with him. He will be missed by so many and he loved his family and friends dearly.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in his name to Donations@ COPDFOUNDATION.ORG or call l-866-7312673, ext. 387, or Snowline Hospice, (530) 6217820 snowlineHospice.org. Interment is private at Westwood Cemetery in Placerville. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.

Bertram Carl Drouin (Bert)

Aug. 1, 1933 – Aug. 31, 2022

Bertram Carl Drouin (“Bert”), loving husband and father, died on Aug. 31, in a peaceful care home.

Bert was born on Aug. 1, 1933 in Lawrence, Mass. His family moved to Southern California and Bert graduated from Grossmont High School in La Mesa, Calif. in 1952. He joined the Army for three years and was stationed in Alaska as a morse code interceptor. From there he graduated from San Jose State University with a police science degree.

Upon graduating from college, Bert joined the San Jose Police Department and during his fouryear tenure as a police o cer, he married his longtime love, Ms. Lola Mae. Bert soon became restless — not with his wife but his job — and decided to move on to bigger and better things by starting his career as a U.S. Customs Agent in San Francisco. From there, Bert and family transferred to Laredo, Dallas, Los Angeles, Anchorage, Washington, DC, Chicago, and then back to Washington, DC where he retired in 1983.

Bert and Lola moved to Northern California and settled in the lovely town of Placerville in a house built by Bert and his friend Larry. He was the manager of Greenstone for six years and on the board of directors and the CSD. He enjoyed playing golf, sharing o -colored jokes with his buddies and wasn’t shy about being the center of attention.

Bert is survived by his wife of 63 years and two adoring daughters, Dana and Dale, and grandchildren Bryan, Brooke and Breanna.

Burial will take place at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, Calif. on Sept. 27 at 11:30 a.m.

Donations may be made to Sierra Wildlife Rescue, World Wildlife Fund, or the American Legion.

Clayton Wesley Dawson

Dec. 12, 1933 – Aug. 29, 2022

Clayton Wesley Dawson went to be with the Lord peacefully at the age of 88, on Aug. 29, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He had participated in a three year long clinical trial for a new Alzheimer’s medication and selflessly made the decision to donate his brain for further study in hopes of a cure one day.

Clay was born on Dec. 12, 1933 in Oakland, Calif. to Cli ord and Dorothy Dawson, the first of three boys. He graduated from Fremont High School in 1952 and in 1954 he married the love of his life, Eleanor Doerfler, at the age of 20. He served in the Navy from 1956-59. In the next four years Clay and Ellie had three children: Cherie, Mark and Dan. Clay worked as a machinist before being hired by the city of Alameda Fire Department in 1967. He earned the title of captain before retiring in 1988. Upon retirement he moved to Placerville, Calif., to build his dream home and live out his life where he had such fond childhood memories spending summers with his grandparents. Clay was a devoted Christian, loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He loved to volunteer in his church and community, was very generous, a fixer of all things. Some of his passions included his beloved wife, family, small planes, welding, building homes, dark chocolate and skiing.

Clay is lovingly remembered by his wife Eleanor Dawson; his son Mark Dawson; his daughter Cheryl Zimbrich (John); his daughter-in-law Michele Peters (Sam); his grandchildren Joshua Zimbrich (Jillian), Nicole Zimbrich, Danielle Martin (Cecil) and Scott Dawson (Raelynda); his great grandchildren Maverick Martin and Eleanor Zimbrich; his brother Lowell Dawson (Judith); his sister-in-law Heather Dawson, and many nieces and nephews. Clay is preceded in death by his son Daniel Dawson; his parents Cli ord and Dorothy Dawson; and his brother Dallas Dawson.

Clay will be honored with a Celebration of Life service at First Lutheran Church, located at 1200 Pinecrest Court, Placerville, Calif. The service will be held on Oct. 7 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made to the Alzheimer’s Association or NAMI El Dorado County would be appreciated.

Walter J. Miller

Apr. 17, 1933 – Sept. 14, 2022

Walter J. Miller passed away Sept. 14, in El Dorado Hills, at the age of 89. Born in Mount Vernon, N.Y. to Charles E. and Dorothy A. Miller, he was preceded in death by his brother, Charles E. Miller and sister Dorothy M. Olsen. Having earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Villanova University in 1954, he moved to Long Beach, Calif. and worked for Shell Oil briefly before joining the Navy in 1955 and becoming a naval aviator. Following his 4 years in the service, he re-joined Shell Oil as an engineer. An interest in the law diverted his engineering career, and he left to pursue a degree in law from University of California, Los Angeles Law School. After passing the bar exam, he joined the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s O ce in 1968. In 1974 he went into private practice, but preferring to work in prosecution, he accepted the position of Chief Assistant District Attorney of El Dorado County in 1979. Following the death of District Attorney Ron Tepper in 1989, Mr. Miller was appointed District Attorney and was elected to the position in the following term. He served as El Dorado County District Attorney until his retirement in 1994.

A man of many talents and interests, retirement did not slow Walter down. He gave of his time and talents volunteering in the Master Gardener program, the Placerville Library and the Lions Club. He enjoyed tennis and golf with friends, woodworking, gardening, painting and fly-fishing. In 2020 macular degeneration left him legally blind, but his avid love of reading and learning continued to be satisfied by Audible Books.

Complications of Parkinson’s Disease ended his life.

Walter will be remembered by his family and many friends for his intelligence, sense of humor, generosity, integrity and the respect with which he treated everyone.

He leaves behind brother Richard J. Miller, 10 much-loved nieces and nephews, and his loving partner of 22 years, Kathryn Hall. At his request there will be no service. He will be interred privately at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery and a celebration of life will be planned for a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to the El Dorado County Library, the Parkinson’s Foundation, or a charity of your choice.

Chester “Chet” Riley

Aug. 17, 2027 - Sept. 5, 2022

Chester “Chet” Riley was born Aug. 17, 1927 to James and Velma Riley in Sheffield, Texas. He passed on Sept. 5. He was 95 years old.

Chester is survived by his son Paul Riley, his daughter-inlaw Renee Riley of Cameron Park, and their children Shanon Riley and Jeffrey Riley; daughter-in-law Barbara Riley Schiavone of Placerville, and her children Robert Riley and Nicole Lane; and great-grandchildren Layla Riley, Addilyn Riley, Kevin Riley, Ryan Meyer and Makenzie Meyer. Chester was preceded in death by his wife Pauline Riley and son Kevin Riley.

Chester moved to Calif., as a child and as a young man served in the Merchant Marines at the end of World War II. Chester and Pauline were married in 1948 and enjoyed 63 years together. In 1967 they moved the family to Placerville where they had a small ranch on Green Valley Road. Chester worked for the Department of Fish & Game and retired after 31 years as the manager of the Nimbus Fish Hatchery. After that Chester and Pauline traveled all over the United States with their motorhome and Baja VW. Chester will always be known for his exemplary character, true to his generation. He was a kind and loving man. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

The family will hold a private memorial at the Westwood Hills Memorial Park Cemetery. Cards can be sent to Chapel of the Pines, Placerville.

Shirley White

Jan 16, 1966 – Sept. 11, 2022

Shirley White, beloved and longtime resident of El Dorado County, passed away on Sept. 11.

Shirley was born on Jan. 16, 1966, in Placerville, Calif. She grew up enjoying the natural beauty of El Dorado County, including her family’s Christmas tree farm, as well as her close community of friends and family. Shirley attended Ponderosa High School, Chapman University and The Institute of Imaginal Studies, ultimately obtaining her master of arts degree in clinical psychology.

Shirley cared deeply for others and pursued a career where she positively impacted many lives. She worked for El Dorado County for over 27 years, beginning as a Prevention Outreach Specialist and Health Educator in the Public Health Department, and ending her career as the Manager of Alcohol and Drug Programs for El Dorado County Behavioral Health. Shirley found her work to be rewarding, especially when it came to mentoring youth and helping those struggling with substance use or those exiting incarceration. She always advocated for those in need. She shepherded innovative new programs, including Drug Courts and Behavioral Health Courts, working side-by-side in partnership with many other county agencies, community based groups, treatment providers, individuals and others throughout El Dorado County. She was a recognized leader, mentor and friend to many.

Shirley proudly retired in 2018 and spent the next several years caring for her parents. She was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and had valiantly begun treatments. Throughout her life, she was a fighter and a bright light to all who knew her.

Shirley loved poetry and books of all kinds, music, hiking, snowshoeing and being anywhere outdoors. Her relationships with others were very important to her and she listened with an open and caring heart.

Shirley is preceded in death by her father Rex Smith. She is survived by her mother June Smith, her sister Sandra Wright, nephews Daniel and Andrew Libby, cousins and other family and friends who will dearly miss her beautiful smile and generous spirit. Shirley’s presence will be greatly missed by all who knew her and her legacy will live on in those whose lives she impacted in the communities she served.

A memorial service will be held on Oct. 27, 1 p.m. at Green Valley Community Church in Placerville, Calif. Donations in Shirley’s name may be made to Progress House or Foothill Animal Rescue.

William (Bill) T. Ozawa, DDS

1942-2022

William (Bill) T. Ozawa, DDS passed away from cancer in August 2022 with his family by his side.

He earned his DDS at University of Southern California in 1965, finished his oral and maxillofacial surgery residency in 1970, and later became a diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

He moved his family from southern California to Placerville because of his love for the outdoors and established a successful oral surgery practice. Over the years, he cared deeply for his patients and became a treasured member of the community. He retired from oral surgery in 1998.

As an avid fly fisherman, Bill’s favorite part of retirement was being able to regularly say that he’s “gone fishing!”

He will forever be remembered for his commitment to his patients, his wholehearted philanthropy, and his love for family, friends, and fly fishing. He is survived by wife Elaine, daughter Nikki, son Scott, and grandsons Toshiro and Takashi Ozawa.

In lieu of flowers, please help the family honor Bill by donating to either Snowline Hospice or California Fly Fishers Unlimited in his memory.

Insurance protected for homeowners near wildfires

California Department of Insurance News release

SACRAMENTO— As wildfires continue to

threaten homeowners throughout California, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara on Thursday ordered insurance companies to preserve residential insurance coverage. The commissioner’sbulletinshields those policyholders within the wildfire perimeter or in adjacent ZIP codes of the Mosquito and Fairview fires in Riverside, Placer and El Dorado counties from insurance non-renewal or cancellation for one year from Sept. 8.

“Wildfires are devastating even if you did not lose your home, so it is absolutely critical to give people breathing room after a disaster. This is not the time to be having to search for insurance,” said Commissioner Lara, whose Department of Insurance staff will beon-site at local assistance

centers in El Dorado and Placer counties.

The moratorium order includes 40 ZIP codes in Riverside, Placer and El Dorado counties, affecting more than 236,000 wildfire survivors.

Consumers can go to theDepartment of Insurance websiteat bit.ly/nononrenewals to see if their ZIP code is included in the moratorium.

Consumers should contact the Department of Insurance at (800) 927-4357 or via chat or email atinsurance.ca.govif they believe their insurance company is in violation of this law or have additional claims-related questions.

The Department of Insurance partners with the Cal Fire and CalOES, pursuant to anexisting statute, to identify wildfire perimeters for mandatory moratorium areas. The Department of Insurance will continue to collaborate with Cal Fire and CalOES to identify additional wildfire perimeters for any fires where there is a declaration of a state of emergency.

County coordinating community wildfire resilience strategy

News release

El Dorado County Office of Wildfire Preparedness and Resilience

Once again El Dorado County experienced a major wildfire with the Mosquito Fire burning in the American River Canyon, threatening communities and a valuable watershed.

Recognizing the ongoing threat from wildfire, El Dorado County and its partners are engaging in a coordinated, community-based wildfire

crime log

The following information was taken from El Dorado County sheriff's reports: Sept. 11

11:19 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Merrywood Circle in Cameron Park.

12:55 p.m. Battery was reported in the area of Luneman Road and Arrowbee Drive in Placerville.

2:05 p.m. Grand theft was reported on oak Dell Road in Diamond Springs.

7:32 p.m. Battery was reported on Lime Kiln Road in Placerville.

7:47 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Hazel Valley Road in Pollock Pines.

11:16 p.m. CHP arrested a 71-year-old man on suspicion of DUI on El Dorado Hills Boulevard.

Sept. 12

12:56 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 31-year-old man on suspicion of a probation violation on Placerville Drive in Placerville.

2:07 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 53-year-old man on suspicion of driving with a suspended license on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines. It was reported the suspect is a habitual offender. He was later released.

10:38 a.m. Burglary was reported at a veterinary office Pleasant Valley Road in Placerville.

12:37 p.m. Battery was reported and an outpatient facility on Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.

6:51 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Webster Lane in Placerville.

7:04 p.m. Battery was reported on Carson Road in Camino.

11:52 p.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported on La Crescenta Drive in Cameron Park.

Sept. 13

10:15 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 20-year-old man and a 50-year-old man, both suspected of illegal cultivation of marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, conspiracy and providing false information. The men were arrested on Pilot Creek Lane in the Pilot Hill area and both were later released from custody on $50,000 bail.

11:07 a.m. A forgery report was made at a Golden Center Drive restaurant.

5:23 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 36-year-old man on suspicion of false vehicle registration and driving with a suspended license. He was arrested on Amber Trail in Pollock Pines and later released from custody on $15,000 bail.

5:34 p.m. Burglary was reported on Grizzly Flat Road in Somerset.

9:37 p.m. Deputies booked into jail an 18-year-old man

resilience and vegetation management strategy that prioritizes and accelerates fire prevention and hazardous fuels reduction activities, including: • Roadside fuels reduction treatments on critical ingress and egress routes across El Dorado County

• Strategically placed hazardous fuel reduction treatments to lower fire intensity and slow fire spread

These efforts are being coordinated with local fire districts, fire safe councils,

on suspicion burglary. He was arrested on Pleasant Valley Road in Placerville and later released from custody.

Sept. 14

9:52 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 43-year-old man on suspicion of probation violations. He as listed in custody as of press time.

9:53 a.m. Burglary was reported on Grizzly Flat Road in Somerset.

resource conservation districts, Cal Fire, the county Department of Transportation and other partners.

Over the course of the next several months, local fire safe councils will be hosting community meetings and contacting landowners in the proposed project areas to share information and answer questions.

Information about the county’s Office of Wildfire Preparedness and Resilience can be found at bit.ly/WildfireOffice.

9:56 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 41-year-old woman suspected of DUI, possessing narcotics for sale and possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. She was arrested on Muse Drive in El Dorado Hills and later released on $60,000 bail.

10:19 a.m. Forgery was reported at a tack and feed store on Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.

11:03 p.m. Petty theft was reported at an auto parts tore on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines.

3:22 p.m. Battery was reported at a gas station on Cameron Park Drive in Cameron Park.

5:04 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Grizzly Flat Road in Somerset.

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.

As you can see in Figure 1, as the blood vessels surrounding the nerves become diseased they shrink and shrivel. This process hastens the ow of vital nutrients to the nerves required to remain healthy. When these nerves begin to “die” it could lead to balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling and burning symptoms in the hands and feet.

A tax revolt in San Francisco?

Citizen tax revolts have been waged throughout American history.

Indeed, the genesis of the United States was a dispute with Great Britain over taxes.

The issue came to a head when colonists in Massachusetts dressed as Native Americans and dumped English tea into Boston Harbor. Literally, the original Tea Party.

But American independence didn’t stop citizens from protesting high taxes. Shays’ Rebellion in 1786 was an armed uprising in Massachusetts in response to a debt crisis among the citizenry and in opposition to the state government’s increased e orts to collect taxes both on individuals and their trades. Many historians believe that the di culty in suppressing the revolt under the Articles of Confederation provided significant motivation to form a more powerful central government.

While the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788 did in fact provide stronger federal authority, it didn’t prevent tax revolts. The Whiskey Rebellion, a fierce revolt against the new tax on distilled spirits imposed shortly after the formation of the federal government, was an early test of George Washington’s presidency.

Fast forward to more modern times. California’s own Proposition 13, passed in a landslide election in 1978, initiated the modern tax revolt. And, in an echo of 1776, a new Tea Party movement began in 2009 with a call for lower taxes, a reduction of the national debt and less government spending. The movement launched the political careers of several members of Congress, many of whom are still serving.

Today’s media likes to portray those of us associated with taxpayer advocacy as ultraconservative. But in a surprising development, there is a nascent “tax revolt” in the Castro District of San Francisco — whose population, by any objective standard, is the polar opposite of “conservative.”

According to an article by Jessica Flores in the San Francisco Chronicle, business owners in the Castro have repeatedly complained to city o cials about the damage that homeless people have inflicted in the neighborhood, only to have the city fail to address the problem.

In response to the indi erence of city o cials, the Castro Merchants Association sent a letter to city o cials urging them to take action on behalf of the beleaguered neighborhood. The letter described the usual problems associated with California’s horrific homeless problem: vandalized storefronts, open

Letters to the Editor

Plea bargains for 9/11 terrorists?

EDITOR:

O n the 21st anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks I read in the Wall Street Journal that the remaining terrorists are successfully negotiating plea bargains with U.S. prosecutors. Apparently, the terrorists’ defense attorneys have convinced the prosecution that a case would take too long, the current process is unjust and (here’s the best part) that somehow justice is better served to have them plea to a lesser crime and serve a life sentence in U.S. federal prison. So the U.S. prosecutors are working with the terrorists’ defense counsel on “good faith” plea bargaining.

Yes, this case is challenging to try in court. Yes, the outcome may not be as assured as a plea deal for life in prison. Yes, the current process is taking a long time.

But where is the justice for all the victims of 9/11? Where is the justice for our troops that bravely fought and died to root out terrorists? Where is the justice in a convenient, expedited and easier process?

And let’s not forget the potential unintended consequences and precedence this sets for our country. First, it will send a clear message to global terrorists that the United State is weak on criminal prosecution and is willing to bargain with terrorists’ sentences. Second, it sets a precedence that if foreign or domestic terrorists are caught, tried and prosecuted in the future that they could negotiate to a better deal that keeps them from facing the death penalty. Third, it is a gut punch to all victims families, military families and U.S. citizens who were told by their political leaders that terrorists would be brought to justice under the fullest extent of the law.

Haven’t we experienced the failures of justice “reform” enough? Now we are about to see how it will fail in handling international terrorists.

MATT SILVEIRA Placerville

Fire safety programs at work

EDITOR:

fire safe. Like many people, I had an uncountable number of trees and branches come down in the last December snowstorm. We are still cleaning up. I applied to the county chipping program and was accepted. The workers chipped up 90% of the shrubbery that we were unable to burn before the halt of burning.

I also applied for the county’s Defensible Space Assistance Program to create a vegetation-free perimeter around my house. Several weeks ago an evaluator came over, looked around and made up a list for a work crew. A couple weeks later the crew showed up and did an amazing job cutting down trees and shrubs and then hauling them to a burn pile.

I could never have gotten so much done (still so much more to do) without the help of these two county programs. So, thank you, very, very much, to the county fire safe council.

KATHLEEN BARCO Placerville

The best trustees

EDITOR:

There is nothing as important as keeping consistency and unity on a governing board in the upcoming November election.

I worked with all three incumbents (running) for the El Dorado Union High School District Board of Trustees either as a board member or a committee member serving the school community and you cannot find better candidates to represent our students, families and sta on the ballot — period.

The last three years have been the most challenging ever in the history of our district and we need experienced, non-agenda candidates to continue to fight for our students’ education, safety and health. That is why I am asking you to cast your votes for the clear choices for the El Dorado Union High School District Board of Trustees on Nov. 8: Timothy Cary, Jessica Rodgers and Brooked Van Komen. Their commitment deserves your trust and your vote.

KEVIN BROWN Retired EDUHSD trustee Call (530) 622-1255.

Tallying up the Mosquito Fire and the welcome rain

Following the rains Sunday through Monday, Sept. 19, the U.S. Forest Service reported containment of the Mosquito Fire grew to 39% compared to 34% the day before.

Total acreage burned as of the above date was 76,290 acres. At last report it was burning toward Stumpy Meadows, which had burned during the King Fire.

I happened to shop at Raley’s Friday instead of Safeway or Save Mart, since I had to mail some bulletins.

Somebody has the mailbox and fire hydrant fenced o around a bank building that is being rehabbed or something. It’s the mailbox I usually use on the way to Save Mart.

At Raley’s a Forest Service o cer was there to show where the containment lines were and how they had worked to bulldoze containment lines ahead of the fire. I really appreciated having an o cer there to explain things. She also handed out fire maps and the latest information

The

sheet.

A similar set-up was at Save Mart but not sta ed.

Monday, I measured half an inch of rain to add to Sunday’s total of 0.15.

I’m sure they received more than that up in the forest and the burn area.

The Eldorado National Forest is one of the most productive in California because it is in the direct line of atmospheric rivers that sweep in during the winter. It keeps burning because it is hardly logged. It used to provide a lot of timber. It could be logged and still grow more timber than was taken out in logs.

Because of changes in philosophy by local forest supervisors and an environmental mindset by a lot of current Forest Service employees, more time is spent doing environmental studies and small sales and prescribed burns than providing timber locally instead of importing it from Canada or New Zealand. Timber sales on the El Dorado used

to finance county roads and schools.

A longtime consulting hydrologist I know from the American Legion believes there have been so many fires on the Eldorado National Forest that there’s hardly anything left to log except burned timber.

I’m not so pessimistic. I believe there are still substantial unburned areas.

If the Eldorado National Forest would return to timber and marking sales it might prompt Sierra Pacific Industries to reopen the Camino Mill. The Latrobe mill will probably never open. It had been placed there by Wetsel-Oviatt because of the railroad tracks but there is no freight service on that line anymore.

Congressmen Tom McClintock and Doug LaMalfa have a bill, HR 6903, filed March 2 of this year, that would direct the secretary of Agriculture

through the chief of the Forest Service to “the maximum extent practical” put out fires of the National Forest system “not later than 24 hours after such a wildfire is detected” … and “not inhibit the suppression e orts of state and local firefighting agencies responding to wildfire on National Forest system lands.”

That beats what the Forest Service has been doing, just observing to see if it could be some kind of controlled burn. A fire in summer or early fall is never controlled, but always turns into a big fire.

It seems like the only green timber is what Sierra Pacific Industries harvests from its vast supply of private timberland. The company manages its forests very well, replanting constantly.

I’d like to thank the El Dorado County Fire Safe Council members for everything they are doing to help homeowners keep their properties

“You can’t have a vibrant, successful business corridor when you have people passed out high on drugs, littering your sidewalk. These people need to get help.”

Because of changes in philosophy by local forest supervisors and an environmental mindset by a lot of current Forest Service employees, more time is spent doing environmental studies and small sales and prescribed burns than providing timber …

drug use, business owners and customers, not to mention the “psychotic episodes.”

Now merchants say the situation has gotten so bad they’re threatening to possibly stop paying city taxes and fees. “If the city can’t provide the basic services for them to become a successful business, then what are we paying for?” a leader of the association told The Chronicle. “You can’t have a vibrant, successful business corridor when you have people passed out high on drugs, littering your sidewalk. These people need to get help.”

This threat to withhold taxes and fees may not be on the same level as the violent Whiskey Rebellion or the political sea change of Prop. 13.

Raffety

When Cecil Wetsel gave me a tour of his timberland in El Dorado County it was so well managed it looked like a park — no brush, no weeds. He also showed an area that had burned previously that wasn’t his property. It had been left to reseed itself. It was a brushy mess and a fire hazard. Wetsel sold his timberland and the mill in Latrobe to SPI. I’m pretty sure they have

But it does reflect a problem more pronounced in California than almost anywhere else in America — not getting the services we pay for. Is it really so surprising that all citizens simply want services commensurate with the taxes they pay? In fact, complaints about California’s high tax burden often take a back seat to the fact that we pay a lot and get so little.

It shouldn’t take a tax revolt for officials to be more responsive to citizen concerns about high taxes as well as basic government services that our tax dollars are supposed to provide.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

maintained that forest like the way Wetsel did. El Dorado Irrigation District won several million in grants from Cal Fire to log dead trees and masticate brush around Sly Park and Weber Reservoir. That proved to be a fire stopper during the Caldor Fire.

Michael Raffety is retired editor of the Mountain Democrat and a resident of the Placerville area.

Stumpy Meadows Reservoir as of Sept. 21

Water storage 15,864 acre-feet

Percent full 80%

Inflow 5.64 cfs

Outflow 23.27 cfs

Folsom Reservoir as of Sept. 22

Water storage 369,215 acrefeet

Percent full 38%

Inflow 1,508 cfs

Outflow 2,871 cfs

Union Valley as of Sept. 22 Water storage 198,261 acrefeet

Percent full 74%

Inflow 0 cfs Outflow 0 cfs

Loon Lake as of Sept. 22

Water storage 47,970 acre-feet

Percent full 69%

Inflow 0 cfs Outflow 0 cfs

Ice House as of Sept. 22

Water storage 33,887 acre-feet

Percent full 78%

Inflow 8 cfs Outflow 0 cfs

Lake Aloha as of Sept. 22

Water storage 355 acre-feet

Percent full 7% Inflow 26.12 cfs Outflow 12.00 cfs

Caples Lake as of Sept. 22

Water storage 15,041 acre-feet

Percent full 67%

Inflow 17.01 cfs Outflow 6.55 cfs

Echo Lake as of Sept. 22

Water storage 864 acre-feet

Percent full 44% Inflow 8.02 cfs Outflow 5.80 cfs

Silver Lake as of Sept. 22

Water storage 5,095 acre-feet

Percent full 59%

Inflow 14.24 cfs Outflow 13.80 cfs

Sly Park as of Sept. 22

Water storage 26,562 acrefeet

Percent Full 64.7%

Inflow 9.59 cfs

Outflow 16.20 cfs

American River as of Sept. 22 Flow 55.65 cfs

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

El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB 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 Thursday afternoon 1:00 pm at the Moni Gilmore Sr Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

Ready for real change?

CELEBRATE RECOVERY meets Wednesday nights at 6:30 pm at Bayside Church of Placerville, 4602 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. We are a Christ centered recovery program to find healing and recovery from our hurts, habits, and hangups. Email elebratercovery@ baysideplacerville. com. Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/ CRBaysidePlacerville.

Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to

18 years old. Email: celebrate@ greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/

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

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

Hangtown Women’s TENNIS Club. Join fun-loving women Wednesdays 9am-11am at El Dorado High School. Lessons, social events, only $35/year. Call Cindy 805-540-8654.

SENIOR PEER COUNSELING of El Dorado County is seeking volunteer counselors. Do you possess such qualities as warmth, empathy and nonjudgement, as well as having varied life experiences, and being over the age of 55? If you do and would like to help and listen to fellow seniors who are dealing with age related issues such as loneliness, isolation, health and grief, we would love to talk to you. Counselors receive training and are supervised by a professional in the field. SPC Clinical Supervisor Jayann Askin, MFT, shares “We are looking for volunteers who are interested in psychology, counseling, and mental health and would like to be a part of a supportive group of ongoing learners in this field.” For more information on this greatly rewarding volunteer opportunity, please call 530-621-6304 Placerville Dr, Ste. B

ARIES (March 21-April 19). As you slip into project manage ment mode, the stars favor you. You’ll list, sort and schedule like a boss. The moment right after this planning session brings a surge of accomplishment.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Your story isn’t static. Like all of the stories throughout history, yours is subject to rewrites, especially as new contexts evolve. Keep in mind that the way you frame your past will often be the way others see it, too.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You’d like to believe that justice wins in the end, but you’re not willing to relax and see what happens. Instead, you’ll crusade for what’s right and do whatever you can to build the future you believe in.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’ve an instinct to protect a thing of beauty. Consider that sometimes you need protec tion from the thing of beauty instead. The same storm that is scary close up is a wonder to behold from the safety of a distant shelter.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’ll be out in the world with your heart wide-open today, and you don’t have to worry too much about losing it either. Like a smartphone, your heart is equipped with a location system. You can always find and retrieve it if necessary.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Though you usually strive to be your best, at times it is helpful to tone down your attrac tive energy in the manner of a spy. Blending in gives you the best vantage point for observing key nuances of your surroundings.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). It takes a seasoned eye to spot

potential. You will recognize in others the very things you have developed in yourself. You’ll give the praise, acknowl edgement and help you wish had been afforded to you.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). It’s better to get good fortune out of the blue than to expect it, thus having the chance to assess whether it meets the expectation. You’re about to give a gift. The most effective way will be to make it a surprise.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). People don’t appreciate what’s readily available to them. You have information, resources, attention and more to give. You’re better off making them work for it. They’ll like it more, and you’ll get the respect you deserve.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You learn fast. You may get it wrong a few times, but what matters is that you don’t get it wrong the same way twice. You’ll switch tactics until you discover what works, and then you’ll apply it again and again for the win.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Do you sense your connection to things outside yourself such as animals or other people’s thoughts? It’s magical how synchronicity shows up for you, all springing from the peaceful, easy feeling you’ve been cultivating.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You don’t trust those who give too much information, and others won’t trust you if you tell stories that aren’t yours to tell. The safekeeping of certain secrets will be what’s best for all, at least for a time. Loose lips sink ships.

Apply now for property tax postponement

News release

El Dorado County Treasurer-Tax Collector K. E. Coleman shares news from the state Controller’s Office that applications to postpone payment of 2022-23 property taxes are now available.

The Property Tax Postponement Program, administered by the Controller’s Office, allows eligible homeowners to postpone payment of property taxes on their primary residence.

To be eligible owners must be at least 62 years old, blind or have a disability; own and occupy the home; have a total household income in 2021 of $49,017 or less; have at least 40% equity in the home; and meet other requirements.

Repayment under the PTP Program becomes due when the homeowner moves, sells, transfers title, defaults, refinances, dies or obtains a reverse mortgage.

Funding for the program is limited. Applications will be accepted from Oct. 1 to Feb. 10 and are processed in the order received.

Coleman advised, “This is a popular program. If you are interested and feel that you may qualify, do not delay. Contact the state controller’s team by phone at (800) 952-5661 or by e-mail to postponement@sco.ca.gov.”

Requirements are subject to change without notice if the law is revised. Additional information and eligibility requirements can be found on the Controller’s Office website at bit.ly/ postponeproptax.

Flu vaccinations offered

News release

The El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency Public Health Division will begin conducting no cost community flu vaccination clinics starting Sept. 29, with additional clinics offered through October and into November. Seasonal influenza vaccine will be administered primarily in flu shot form; a limited supply of FluMist® will be available for children and adults.

“Everyone six months of age or older should get a flu vaccine each year for the best protection against the flu,” said Dr. Nancy Williams, El Dorado County public health officer. “It’s especially important to vaccinate high-risk people, such as children younger than age 5, people 65 years and older, pregnant women and

people with chronic diseases like asthma, diabetes, heart disease or lung disease. It’s also critical for healthcare workers and people taking care of highrisk persons to be immunized.”

In addition to the flu vaccine, the county will also offer the COVID-19 vaccine at the flu vaccination clinics for those who qualify. “According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, both the flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine can be given at the same time if the individual is eligible for both at that time,” said Williams. “Please check with your healthcare provider or Public Health staff if you recently received a COVID-19 vaccine or booster and you have questions about receiving the flu vaccine.”

There is no cost for the flu vaccine or COVID-19 vaccine at

Boat Continued from 1

Folsom Lake.

Over the last six years EDH Fire and neighboring agencies have responded to 80 calls for service at Folsom Lake — everything from boat fires to medical emergencies to drownings — and those oftentimes complex calls have a big impact on the agencies involved, he told supervisors. “There’s lots of resources we commit — multiple engine companies, chief officers and helicopters,” Lilienthal explained, “and those resources aren’t just El Dorado Hills. They’re shared throughout the county. They’re our neighbors … Rescue, Cameron Park, Cal Fire.

“While some of our residents use Folsom Lake, a lot of these are visitors,” he added. “They’re visitors who don’t only go to Folsom Lake, but they continue on up the 50 corridor and they recreate here in El Dorado County, which is what we want.”

EDH Fire currently uses an inflatable boat that can carry two first responders and one patient,” Johnson shared, adding that it does not have firefighting capabilities. When they respond to a fire on the lake, firefighters “ask a willing civilian boat owner to allow us to use their boat and (we) bring a pump with us,” the chief said.

Board direction directs staff to cover the cost of the new boat using the county’s Transient Occupancy Tax contingency funds, with all supervisors agreeing it would be an appropriate use of the money.

“I think it’s an important asset and, again, it’s not just El Dorado Hills,” District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl said. “It’s a countywide resources that we can use in the event of an emergency.” “One time, I think we can do it,”

the flu clinics. Face coverings are required at all clinic locations.

West Slope community flu clinic dates and locations for 2022: • Oct. 10 — 10 a.m. to noon at Pollock Pines Community Church in the Evergreen Room, 6361 Pony Express Trail, Pollock Pines • Oct. 17 — 10 a.m. to noon at Fire Station 49, 501 Pleasant Valley Road, Diamond Springs • Oct. 22 — 10 a.m. to noon at the Divide Wellness Center, 6065 Highway 193, Georgetown • Oct. 24 — 10 a.m. to noon at Pioneer Park, 6740 Fairplay Road, Somerset • Nov. 2— 10 a.m. to noon at El Dorado Hills Fire Station 85, 1050 Wilson Blvd., El Dorado Hills • Nov. 9 — 10 a.m. to noon at Cameron Park Community Services District, 2502 Country Club Drive, Cameron Park

District 2 Supervisor Lori Parlin added. The board unanimously approved the $204,000 budget addition, which will come back for a final vote Sept. 27.

“If there’s costs beyond that it will be on the El Dorado Hills Fire Department to figure that out,” Lilienthal confirmed.

EDH Fire is “very appreciative” of the board's support, Chief Johnson said, explaining, “The boat will be a great asset.”

The El Dorado Hills Fire Board is expected to approve the issuance of a request for qualifications at its October meeting. The bid and build process will likely take several months.

The boat was originally included in the EDH Fire Department’s 2022-23 budget; however, the Lilienthal said, funding had to be pulled back due ongoing expenses associated with the department's training center currently under construction in the El Dorado Hills Business Park. When completed, the center will be an asset for all local fire agencies — another way EDH Fire collaborates with other local departments and the county, the deputy chief pointed out.

He also noted EDH Fire’s partnership with the county during the COVID-19 health crisis and its assistance with the county’s Vegetation Management Ordinance.

“I think the El Dorado Hills Fire Department has demonstrated our commitment to collaboration, certainly with the vegetation management that the county is pursuing,” Lilienthal said. “We have our defensible space inspectors who are out there right now. They’re working, inspecting properties for the best interest of everybody — for the entire county.”

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Cal Fire funds aim to develop workforce

News release

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Wood Products and Bioenergy Team awarded $6.4 million in new grant agreements.

These projects aim to increase California’s capacity to establish healthy, resilient forests through workforce and business development. In addition, they advance new technologies for forest operations and utilization of forest fuels for lumber, energy and other products.

The nine new grantees include nonprofits, family businesses, startups, a university and a community college. These partners are building the infrastructure and capacity to sustainably manage California’s forests as outlined in California’s Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan.

Three workforce development projects provide job training in fuel treatments, prescribed fire and project management. The Watershed Research and Training Center will give hands-on support to members of local conservation corps to pursue careers in forestry. The Tribal EcoRestoration Alliance will implement a fuel management and lands stewardship training program for Tribal members in Lake County. The Forest Business Alliance will offer training in grant writing, peer learning and project management to developing forestry businesses.

Four business projects will increase the pace and scale of forest restoration. Del Logging will add a biomass operation to their business that will expand their capacity on forest health projects. The Auberry Sawmill will add machinery to utilize logs from

crime log

Placerville Police Department crime log: Sept. 14-21

Sept. 15

5:50 a.m. Officers arrested a 40-year-old man on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance on Placerville Drive.

10:17 a.m. Officers arrested a 31-year-old man suspected of littering near a state waterway, burning without a permit, DUI and drug possession on Placerville Drive.

2:40 p.m. Two unidentified women allegedly entered a store on Broadway at yelled threats while stealing multiple items.

Sept. 16

3:50 p.m. A 32-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being under the influenced of a controlled substance on Broadway.

local fire rehabilitation activities and fuelsreduction projects. A start-up in Sonora, Kodama Systems, will create internet connectivity at forest operation sites and advance remote operation of heavy equipment. West Forest will study the feasibility of manufacturing construction materials like oriented strand board. Currently, 100% of oriented strand board sold in California is imported from other states.

Two research awards seek key information for future forestry policy. One effort expands an assessment of the economic and carbon impacts of recent megafires to include California. Cal Poly Humboldt will develop a framework for new projects to measure the carbon benefits of utilizing forest biomass as compared to leaving it in the forest or burning it in open piles.

Since January, $40 million has been awarded through this new grant program.

“Our workforce development award from Cal Fire enables us to offer the Forestry Challenge program free of charge to high school students throughout the state,” said Diane Dealey Neill, executive director of Forestry Educators, Inc. “Removing this barrier to participation has increased our student numbers and will provide technical training and career awareness to over 500 students each year.”

Most of the funded projects benefit disadvantaged or lowincome communities as defined by CalEnviroscreen 4.0. The economic opportunities provided by these investments are in addition to the expected benefits from avoided wildfire emissions and carbon storage in wood products.

Sept. 17

12:53 a.m. Officers booked in jail a 36-year-old woman suspected on a probation violation, resisting arrest and battery on a peace officer on Main Street.

2:31 p.m. Battery was reported on Broadway.

3:44 p.m. Officers responded to a fire near a transient camp on Placerville Drive.

9:38 p.m. Officers cited a 30-year-old man suspected of illegal burning on the bike trail in town.

Sept. 18

6:01 a.m. A 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance on Forni Road.

9:56 p.m. A 65-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of being drunk in public on Ray Lawyer Drive.

Sept. 19

9:52 a.m. A 58-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drug and drug paraphernalia possession on Broadway.

1:45 p.m. Officers arrested a 53-year-old woman suspected of public intoxication on Broadway.

5:43 p.m. A vehicle burglary was reported at the Center Street parking garage.

6:18 p.m. Officers cites a 27-yearold man reportedly found in possession of drug paraphernalia on Center Street.

Sept. 20

9:33 a.m. Officers responded to a reported assault on Pacific Street. A suspect has been identified.

Sept. 21

12:37 a.m. An unidentified driver fled the scene of an attempted traffic stop on Forni Road.

allowing the county to consolidate many services offered in Tahoe onto one site. Plans include moving staff from Health and Human Services, Department of Transportation, Planning/Building, the RecorderClerk's Office and the Assessor's Office as well as providing space for the District 5 supervisor to meet with staff and constituents. This reorganization will free up space in the county's Johnson Center where, Schwartz said, “(We) have our public safety groups in there ... bursting at the seams.”

Social Services will remain at the county's Sandy Way property in South Lake Tahoe.

The Barton Health property covers about 1.77 acres and includes ample parking — a rarity in Tahoe, both Schwartz and Novasel excitedly noted.

During public comment county

resident Ken Greenwood, who used to work at the county's current El Dorado Center in Tahoe, said consolidating departments onto one campus will improve workability. “Finally a feather in our cap, if you will.”

Funding for the property's purchase comes from the county's capital reserves, American Rescue Plan Act funds and Public Health funds. The total project amount is budgeted at $10 million as the new buildings will require some remodeling to accommodate staff needs. The county has begun its due diligence process and the sale is expected to close Nov. 15, Schwartz said.

The county plans to sell the old El Dorado Center property with proceeds going back into the county's capital reserves.

Now you can finally have all of the

✓ First walk-in

✓ Fixed rainfall to offer

✓ High-quality tub comprehensive the

✓ Top-of-the-line all included at one low, affordable

Now you can have the best of both worlds–there

Courtesy photo

El Dorado County is in the process of purchasing this Barton Health property in South Lake Tahoe, creating a new government center to replace an end-of-life facility.

Warm Up Fall with Filling Family Meals

Cooler

fall months call for comforting, hearty meals that taste just as delicious as they look. Filling recipes like chili and pasta make the season a special time for spending quality moments with those you love.

This fall, turn to a time-saving ingredient like Newman’s Own Sockarooni Pasta Sauce with its blend of tomatoes, mushrooms and bell peppers plus a few signature spices. This versatile sauce made with high-quality ingredients is ready to be a new favorite at your home in recipes like Chili Con Carne, a satisfying dish that can simmer on the stove while you help little ones with homework.

If your family and friends love sharing pasta on those cool, crisp evenings, Lasagna a la Sockarooni can help you impress guests as a quick, easy recipe elevated by creamy and buttery bechamel sauce.

Along with comforting foods, fall is also a time for giving. You can put tasty food on your own table while helping nourish and transform the lives of children who face adversity with Newman’s Own’s radically good commitment to “giving it all away.” As with all of its products, 100% of profits from Sockarooni Pasta Sauce is donated to organizations that help kids.

Learn more about supporting that commitment and find additional autumn recipes by visiting NewmansOwn.com.

Lasagna a la Sockarooni

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Servings: 9

Salted water

1 package lasagna noodles

1 jar Newman’s Own Sockarooni Pasta Sauce

2 cups Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated

Bechamel Sauce: 4 tablespoons butter

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/2 cups whole milk

Over high heat, boil large pot of heavily salted water. Once boiling, add lasagna noodles and cook until al dente then drain and set aside.

To make bechamel sauce: In saucepan over medium-low heat,

melt butter. Add flour and stir with wooden spoon until paste forms. Add small amount of milk and stir until mixture loosens. Gradually add remaining milk and continue stirring with whisk. Cook sauce over low heat until thickened, about 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375 F.

In large, deep, oven-proof casserole dish, ladle small amount of pasta sauce followed by small amount of bechamel sauce. Sprinkle some Parmigiano Reggiano cheese over sauces and layer with three lasagna noodles. Continue pattern until dish is complete. Top final layer of noodles with remaining bechamel sauce and grated Parmigiano Reggiano.

Bake 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Cool prior to serving.

Chili Con Carne

Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 2 hours

Servings: 8

2 cups diced onion 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 green pepper, seeded and chopped

2 tablespoons cooking oil 2 pounds coarsely ground lean beef

2 cups kidney beans, soaked overnight

1 jar Newman’s Own Sockarooni or Marinara Pasta Sauce 2-3 cups water

2-3 tablespoons chili powder 1 teaspoon ground cumin

salt, to taste pepper, to taste

1 cup chopped celery 1 can (8 ounces) corn sour cream, for garnish lime wedges, for garnish Saute onion, garlic and green pepper in oil until soft. Add beef and brown. Add kidney beans, pasta sauce, water, chili powder, cumin and salt and pepper, to taste. Simmer, uncovered, 1 hour, stirring frequently.

Add celery and corn; simmer 1 hour. Garnish with sour cream and lime wedges.

Substitution: Use 3 cups cooked rice for meat to make vegetarian chili.

Turn to Tradition for Tex-Mex Taste

Family Features

WThe next time your loved ones crave a comforting dish that’s warming from the inside-out, turn to an all-time classic with a touch of southern flair.

Take inspiration for this Tex-Mex Beef Lasagna from season 3 of “BBQuest: Beyond the Pit,” a video series that dives into the longheld traditions, new flavors and everyday inspiration that make Texas barbecue legendary. Developed from the show by BBQuest co-host and “Hardcore Carnivore” cookbook author Jess Pryles, this tasty take on comfort food can be the perfect solution for a family meal with plenty of leftovers.

After dinner, settle in together and learn pitmaster techniques from the experts as the series follows four themes that capture the essence of Texas barbecue: legacy and tradition; creativity and innovation; Texas trailblazers; and family and community.

“Since launching BBQuest four years ago, it’s truly remarkable to see how much has changed and yet stayed the same when it comes to Texas barbecue, and that’s exactly what you see in season 3,” said Rachel Chou, Texas Beef Council’s director of consumer marketing. “There has been so much exciting innovation around cooking methods and international flavors while there’s still a huge dedication to long-held recipes and smoking techniques.”

To find more pitmaster-worthy recipes, visit BeefLovingTexans. com.

Tex-Mex Beef Lasagna

Recipe courtesy of Jess Pryles on behalf of Beef

Loving Texans Total time: 60 minutes

Servings: 10

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 pounds ground beef

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon cumin

2 teaspoons chipotle powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

15 ounces canned corn, drained

15 ounces canned seasoned black beans, drained

10 ounces canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained

15 ounces canned red enchilada sauce

1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream nonstick cooking spray

12 corn tortillas 8 ounces shredded Mexican blend cheese cilantro (optional) green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 F.

In large pan or skillet, heat olive oil over mediumhigh heat then add onion. Cook until softened, 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly.

Add ground beef and cook, stirring regularly, until beef has browned.

Add kosher salt, garlic powder, cumin, chipotle powder and onion powder; stir well. Add corn, black beans and diced tomatoes. Turn heat to medium and simmer 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

In bowl, combine enchilada sauce and crema; mix well.

Spray casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Pour about 1/4 cup enchilada sauce mixture on bottom to prevent tortillas from sticking.

Layer 2-4 tortillas across bottom then top with layer of ground beef mixture. Use ladle to spoon some enchilada sauce mixture on top, distributing evenly. Top with another layer of tortillas then repeat layers until casserole is full, 3-4 layers. Top with shredded cheese.

Loosely cover dish with foil in tent shape to help prevent cheese from sticking then bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Cool 5 minutes before serving. Top with cilantro and green onions, if desired.

Family Features

Women unite for Saturday of service

Lori Mortensen Special to the Mountain Democrat

It was a big day for community service. Saturday, Sept. 17, women from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints met at the Stake Center at 3431 Hacienda Road in Cameron Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a special opportunity to serve their community.

Titled Charity Never Faileth, attendees rolled up their sleeves and helped with a variety of service projects, including making blankets for Project Linus, sewing surgery comfort pillows for Marshall Hospital, crocheting washcloths bundled with bars of soap for the Upper Room, writing Sunshine Letters for Snowline Hospice and donating gently used children’s books for Kids in Need.

“It was heartwarming to see so many women gather together to work on some projects that would be going to help people in our community,” said volunteer Cheryl Trapani from Cameron Park. “Many of the women there were from the Georgetown area, which was is in the middle of a potential evacuation wildfire alert. They put their troubles aside for a few hours to help others.”

The numbers were impressive. During the four-hour event (including a salad bar lunch), at least 150 women and young women (ages 11-18) tied 30 blankets for Project Linus (which will be given to first responders in the county to comfort children in need), wrote 200 sunshine letters to uplift local senior citizens who may have minimal outside

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Photo by Anita Schiller Terry

How firm or soft should a surgery pillow be? Concerned volunteers decided there should be both, depending on the type of surgery.

n Service

Grab board and catch a wave to the Mountain Democrat website

EDCOE Charter College and Career Prep helps shape bright futures

Dina Gentry EDC Office of Education

A passionate heart, drive in the core and empathy in the soul are all essential for education. El Dorado County Office of Education Charter College and Career Prep is acutely aware of the importance of each trait in creating community. The new school year recently began for CCP under the leadership of Maria Osborne, principal; Kimberly Doyle, assistant principal; and Michael Gillespie, executive director of Charter Alternative Programs.

“My hope is that as we expand resources and services to all students in El Dorado County, we continue to capitalize on educational innovations and improvements for our students and communities so that unmet needs may be impacted,” Osbourne shared.

CCP is a public charter school on the EDCOE campus, located at 6767 Green Valley Road in Placerville,

focused on ensuring all students succeed to their full potential and achieve this through delivery of varied classes for completion of high school graduation, acceleration of school units and credit recovery of school units. All students should have the opportunity to have a bright future and CCP aims to do this through strong academics, mental health services, wellness and resource programs and more. Utilizing these programs and services, CCP works to create a well-rounded community school in El Dorado County.

CCP is excited for another school year and hopes to continue to create partnerships to make the difference for youth in El Dorado County.

“The staff at College and Career Prep is a group of caring and dedicated professionals who do whatever it takes to help students and families,” Gillespie said.

For more information about CCP visit ccp.edcoe.org.

Senior Farmers Market check booklets available

News release

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

Check booklets will be distributed 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 1, at the Placerville Certified Farmers Market in the cinema parking lot, 337 Placerville Drive, Placerville.

The check booklets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. To be eligible, older adults must be at least 60 years of age and meet income

Service Continued from 9

contact, sewed 129 post-surgery pillows for Marshall Hospital patients, crocheted 12 washcloths (with 40 more still in the works) for patrons of the Upper Room and collected 230 gently used children’s books.

“This is the first time in a couple of years the stake women in the county have been able to gather in large numbers to serve our fellow brothers and sisters. It was such a treat and smiles abounded,” said organizer and

guidelines (one-person household with annual income less than $25,142 or $2,096 monthly or two-person household with no more than $33,874 or $2,823 per month).

Seniors may designate an individual (proxy) to receive their booklet and make purchases at the farmers market on their behalf. A proxy form must be completed by the eligible senior in advance for the proxy to pick up the booklet. Proxy forms can be picked up at the Placerville Senior Center, 937 Spring St. in Placerville, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more details call El Dorado County Senior Information & Assistance at (530) 621-6369.

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

Stake Relief Society President Corin Atkinson of Placerville. A special JustServe table was featured at the event as well, where attendees could learn more about these and other volunteer organizations featured at JustServe, an online resource that offers a multitude of other volunteer opportunities in the area and across the nation. For more information visit JustServe.org.

at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on AUGUST 31, 2022.

/s/ Lauren C. Bowers C. BOWERS, Judge of the Superior Court 9/12, 9/19, 9/26, 10/3 10857 TO SHOW

1. Petitioner: Sandra Frazer filed a petition this court a

Present name: SANDRA DENISE BRYAN FRAZER

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR OF CASE NUMBER: 22CV1242 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Amber Havilla; Nathan Creamer filed a Any the the objection at least two the matter is scheduled to be heard and the hearing to show the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING: OCTOBER 21, 2022, 8:30 A.M.

DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 3321 Cameron Park Drive, Cameron Park, CA 95682.

3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published

Proposed name: SANDRA DENISE FRAZER the below show any, why the petition for change of name should not be Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter scheduled to be heard and appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be no objection timely the court may the hearing.

NOTICE OCTOBER 21, 2022, 8:30 A.M.

DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 3321 Cameron Park Drive, Cameron Park, CA 95682.

3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general printed in this county: Democrat.

This order has been filed on AUGUST 31, 2022.

Courtesy photo

Charter Alternative Programs Executive Director Michael Gillespie, Charter College and Career

Prep Principal Maria Osborne and Assistant Principal Kimberly Doyle, left to right, are ready for another exciting year helping students succeed.

4-H enrollment open to youth

News release

4-H offers young people many new opportunities allowing them to make an impact on the community and step up to the challenges of a complex and changing world. El Dorado County 4-H is a volunteer youth development program open to all youth between the ages of 5 to 18 years old sponsored by the University of California and the county.

Eight clubs —Camino Go-Getters, Gold Hill Toppers, Happy Sundowners, Latrobe Outlanders, Mother Lode 49ers, Rescue Up ‘n’ Comin’, Shingle Springers and Southside Topnotch — make up El Dorado County 4-H. These clubs offer a variety of animal projects, as well as other projects such as cooking,

arts and crafts, hiking, geology and leadership that members enjoy.

Research has proven that participation in 4-H has a significant positive impact on young people. Recent findings from the Tufts University, “4-H Study of Positive Youth Development,” indicate that, when compared to their peers, young people in 4-H are:

• Nearly four times more likely to contribute to their communities,

• Two times more likely to pursue healthy behaviors like and

• Two times more likely to engage in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs in the out-of-school time.

4-H, the nation’s largest youth development and empowerment

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organization, cultivates confident kids who tackle the issues that matter most in their communities right now. In the United States, 4-H programs empower six million young people through the 109 land-grant universities and cooperative extensions in more than 3,000 local offices serving every county and parish in the country. Outside the United States, independent, country-led 4-H organizations empower one million young people in more than 50 countries. In El Dorado County nearly 500 youth and 60-plus adult volunteers from the community are involved in the 4-H program.

To learn more about 4-H or to enroll today visit ucanr.edu/sites/ EDC_4-H_Program or call the El Dorado County 4-H Office at (530) 621-5502.

Try nonprofit speed matching

News release

The El Dorado Community Foundation hosts an exciting event this fall for the nonprofit community and community members interested in getting involved.

Nonprofit speed matching connects people in the community who are interested in serving on nonprofit boards with nonprofits seeking qualified board or board committee members. Nonprofit boards provide the opportunity to become more deeply involved with an issue or program you care about while investing in your community and the people who live in it, collaborating with others who share your values and interests, broadening your leadership skills and expanding your personal and professional networks.

The events are scheduled 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, at the Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe and 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, at the Cameron Park Community Services District.

How nonprofit speed matching works:

• Community members and nonprofits register and complete a short application. Nonprofits may register for the Tahoe event at south-shoretahoe-nonprofit-registration.eventbrite.com. Community members register at south-shore-tahoecommunity-member-registration.eventbrite.com. Nonprofits may register for the Cameron Park event

at west-slope-nonprofit-registration.eventbrite. com. Community members register at west-slopecommunity-member-registration.eventbrite.com.

• Prior to the event, potential board member registrants will be sent the websites and mission statements of the participating nonprofits. This information allows registrants to familiarize themselves with each participating nonprofit.

• Attendees will interact with nonprofits matching their passions in 6-minute rounds.

• After the speed matching is over, attendees will have 30 minutes to mix and mingle over refreshments with participating nonprofits to follow up and exchange contact information.

Benefits to community members include the ability to create a positive impact by contributing enthusiasm and expertise to an organization that needs help addressing community needs; the opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals toward a common goal; ability to broaden professional and leadership skills while learning about nonprofit governance; and expansion of personal and professional networks in the community.

Benefits to nonprofits include access to enthusiastic, skilled and diverse candidates who want to make a difference in the community; reduced time and resources spent on recruiting board members — resulting in improved organizational efficiency in filling leadership needs and exposure to candidates outside of the “usual” recruiting circles.

Barton Health gives back to nonprofits

News release

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — The Barton Health Foundation’s Community Health Grants program recently awarded $100,000 in funding to 12 local nonprofit organizations engaged in healthcarerelated initiatives in the Lake Tahoe area.

The nonprofit organizations were chosen for their work in addressing the areas most pressing health needs — mental health, substance use and access to health care — as identified by the Community Health Needs Assessment. Since 2008 the Barton Health Foundation has provided more than $680,000 in funding to local agencies that support community members facing these challenges.

“Advancing health equity for our community members is vitally important,” said Chris Kiser, Barton Health Foundation executive director. “Everyone has a right to be as healthy as possible and by providing this funding to our nonprofit partners who work diligently everyday to remove barriers, we are helping to ensure a healthier community.”

Grants were awarded to:

• Boys and Girls Club: for health and safety upgrades in group environments.

• Bread & Broth: to address food insecurities faced by children and adults.

• Child Advocates of El Dorado (CASA): helping recruit and train advocates for at-risk youth.

• Encompass Youth: for supporting youth through substance use counseling.

• Family Resource Center: to address mental health issues for the Latino community.

• Live Violence Free: to provide bilingual mental health services for victims of abuse.

• Mountain High Recovery: strengthening individuals, families, and communities through education and treatment of substance use disorders.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness: support for individuals and their families living with mental health disorders.

• SOS Outreach: offering youth mentorship programs for emotional skill development.

• Suicide Prevention Network: supporting suicide awareness and prevention programs.

• Tahoe Alliance for Safe Kids: dedicated to the prevention and reduction of substance misuse among adolescents in our community.

• Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless: increasing safety resources for at-risk populations.

Learn more at BartonHealthFoundation.org.

Courtesy photo

El Dorado County 4-H clubs offer a variety of project and experiences. Local youth ages 5-18 are invited to enroll.