Alliance honored for Vietnam commemoration
John Poimiroo
Special to the Mountain Democrat
The U.S. Department of Defense has identified the El Dorado County Veterans Alliance as one of the nation’s top performers among United States Vietnam War Commemoration commemorative partners.
The honor recognizes the EDC Veterans Alliance for having presented commemorative service pins to more than 250 Vietnam veterans, going so far as to pin one veteran on Christmas Day. The certificate notes the extensive e orts the alliance undertook for El Dorado County’s Vietnam veterans throughout the Vietnam War commemoration, including adding special Vietnam veteran recognition events to county Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies and for the many memorials it installed to honor Vietnam veterans — a memorial bench remembering the 33 El Dorado County men who died in combat during the Vietnam War, a bronze plaque honoring Navy Capt. Paul Jacobs who rescued more than 30,000 allied Vietnamese sailors and their families during the closing moments of the Vietnam War and bronze plaques honoring Lt.C. Greg Etzel, USAF AFC, 1st Lt. Andrew LePeilbet, USA DSC and L.Cpl. Richard Buchanan, USMC NC, all recipients of medals of valor for their heroism on the battlefields of Vietnam.
In recognizing the Veterans Alliance, Army Maj. Gen. Edward J Chrystal Jr. identified the Veterans Alliance as among the top 15% of more than 13,000 commemorative partner organizations, stating to the members of the Veterans Alliance, “Your indelible impact cannot be measured in numbers, but rather in the hearts and faces of those whose lives were touched and will never be the same again.”
People flocked to the ninth annual Props, Cops & Rodders car show and fly-in event at Cameron Airpark in Cameron Park on Saturday, Sept. 28. Above, CHP officer Cole Revis and his steed Dozer greet 4-year-olds Colton and Keller Thompson of Rescue. The officer and his mount took a break from their normal duties at the California State Capitol to attend. At right, Cameron Park resident Shelli Bolsover shows off her 1966 Ford Mustang. Funds raised from the community event support local nonprofits. Mountain Democrat photos by Eric Jaramishian
Giving props to this event
Harkin fights dismissal from Planning Commission
Constitution and the county charter. Daniel Harkin, who took over Amanda Ross’ position as the District 5 planning commissioner in April 2022, expected to serve a term through 2027 but has told the Mountain Democrat he was “coerced into resigning.” The events that led to his “forced removal,” according to Harkin, started when the Planning Commission held a hearing to discuss the proposed Marble Valley and Lime Rock specific plans Aug. 8, during which he inquired about MelloRoos funds. The then-planning commissioner said he received an email during the hearing from a Serrano resident, which made claims of misuse of the bond money.
The Pollock Pines Realtor and
resident said he was contacted by District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine a day later via email, stating she “would like to appoint a di erent person to represent District 5.”
“I would like to respectfully ask that you provide a letter of resignation at your convenience,” the email reads. “If you could make the letter of resignation e ective Sept. 13, 2024, that would provide for a smooth transition.”
“I’m a little taken aback at
Katherine Leah Reyes (Katie Koban)
Nov. 20, 1976 – Feb. 26, 2024
Azardokht Sadrian Elli
Dec. 28, 1939 – Sept. 22, 2024
Katherine Leah Reyes (Katie Koban), aged 47, of Frisco, Texas passed away on February 26th, 2024 after a short and courageous battle with cancer. Katie was born on November 20, 1976 to Dr. Frank James Koban and Lettie Lee Koban in Carmichael, Ca. Her family moved to Cameron Park, Ca when she was 3 years old and lived there for most of her life. Kate graduated from Ponderosa High School in 1994. Kate is preceded in death by her mother Lettie, who passed in 2018. Kate leaves behind her only beloved son, Isaiah Koban of Woodland, father D. Frank Koban, brother Dr. Mike Koban and his wife Rene, sister Amy Stanberry and her husband Steve, Sarah Gregg and her husband Gary. Many nieces and nephews. And, Kate’s beloved dog Molly. Katie was a phenomenal dancer, beginning when she was a young child. Dancing took Kate all the way to Japan and Tonga with her dance troop and touring with various artists. Her passion was her love of animals, especially dogs. Kate had many struggles in life, but in her later years she was able to overcome them, and she was so very proud of her sobriety and loved her career at Amazon. Kate had found the Lord and was baptized in September of 2023 at James River Church in Missouri. Now that Kate has passed into the arms of our Lord, her physical life on earth is over but it is the beginning of an eternal and beautiful journey for her, and for that her family knows that they will be seeing her again one day.
Services will be held privately, at a later date.
Jane Ellen Rogers
Sept. 7, 1929 – Aug. 25, 2024
Jane Rogers passed away in her home of 52 years with her daughter and niece by her side. She was born in Schenectady, NY and grew up in Lowell, MA. In her twenties, she traveled to San Francisco to be with her sister Doris. On March 26, 1953 she met Gene Rogers and they were married a little over 6 months later on November 6, 1953. They started their family in San Jose, CA and moved to Placerville in 1972. She enjoyed her earlier years raising her family and later in life enjoyed summers by the pool with her grandchildren and then great grandchildren. After Gene passed away, she spent time with her family and looked forward to volunteering at the library. Jane and Gene were very kind, generous and giving people who loved their family very much. Jane is survived by her son Michael Rogers and his wife Lynette Rogers of Pleasant Valley and her daughter Dory Rogers and husband Tim Keller of Somerset. She also leaves behind five grandchildren: Alison and Anthony Robinson, Jake and Liz Hostetler, Michael and Elizabeth Rogers, Jon and Nicole Rogers and Sadie Keller. She was blessed with six great grandchildren: Savanna, Courtney, Corbyn, Kara, Aliya and Kira. She is also survived by 2 close nieces, Sandra and Karen and her brother Sanford and wife Ginny. She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Charles Eugene Rogers, her brother Norman and sisters Betty, and Doris. A special thanks to cousin Karen for her love, kindness and compassion she showed our mom.
Candy Adams (Marilyn Outwater)
Aug. 12, 1944 – Sept. 12, 2024
Candy Adams (Marilyn Outwater) was born in Inglewood, California on August 12th 1944. Candy passed away peacefully on September 12th, 2024, at her home with her family by her side. Candy spent many years as a youth in Topanga Canyon. After her marriage, she and her husband relocated to South Lake Tahoe. Candy loved living in South Lake Tahoe where she frequently visited Pope beach with her children, hiked in Desolation Wilderness and camped in Hope Valley. She and her husband ran a lucrative auto business and were well known and loved by the community. Candy was the daughter of Olney and Hazel Outwater. She was the beloved wife of Michael Adams, her husband of 61 years. Candy is survived by her three children, Robert Adams, Julie Grange (Adams), Eric Adams (his wife Dawn Adams), and four grandchildren, Callie Adams, Matthew Adams, Adam Grange and Jerome Grange. Candy was an incredible mother who cherished her children and supported them through all aspects of their lives. Candy adored her grandchildren and was always creating lasting memories with them by creating many craft projects and taking them on outdoor activities.
Private services will be held by her loved ones.
Azar Sadrian passed away on September 22, 2024 in Cameron Park, CA at the age of 84. She was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and fought the monster disease for 22 months, carrying herself with grace and determination, driven by her faith and love for family. Azar Sadrian was born to Abdulhossain and Zarin in Tehran, Iran on December 28, 1939 as the oldest of 7 children. She married Hossein Elli at age 17, a marriage that lasted 67 years. They soon had two children, their son Shahram and daughter Shiva. After the Iranian Islamic Revolution, they immigrated to Sacramento in 1985 and joined the community at Fair Oaks Presbyterian Church. Azar was a leader in her family and a pioneer in her career. She began teaching at 17 and was an educator in schools and universities for over 60 years. She got her Bachelor’s in Communications in Iran while working and raising two kids, and completed her schooling in the US with a Master’s in Education. Azar volunteered on academic Boards and the local Foster Family Services Board. She was a prominent member of the El Dorado Hills Sports Club and loved taking cycling and water aerobics classes. Loved by many, an example to all, and our fearless leader, Azar Sadrian. You will be immensely missed! Azar is survived by her husband Hossein Elli of Cameron Park. Two children: Shahram Elli (Flora) of Granite Bay and Shiva Frentzen (Je ) of Cameron Park. Four grandchildren: Alin Frentzen (Susan) of Lee’s Summit MO, Angela Frentzen of San Diego, Brian Elli of Folsom, and Justin Elli of Folsom. Three great grandchildren: Elise, Sylvia, and Oliver. Six siblings: Pooran Sadrian of Malibu, Parviz Sadrian (Pam) of Fair Oaks, Simmin Namgostar (Shapoor) of Sacramento, Iran Sadrian of Roseville, Saeed Sadrian (Anne) of Camino, and Nasrin Mojtahedi (Hossein) of Roseville. Her celebration of life service will be held at Fair Oaks Church (11427 Fair Oaks Blvd, Fair Oaks, CA 95628) in the main sanctuary on Friday, October 11, 2024 at 11 AM with a reception to follow.
Nancy K Kelly
March 31, 1944 – Sept. 13, 2024
Nancy Kathryn Kelly was born at Camp Stoneman, California to parents Lydia M and Edward F. Kelly. She lived in Antioch, California for many years where she worked as a manager at the Credit Union. She was active in the Antioch Garden Club, served as Neighborhood Watch Captain as well as volunteering for numerous city and social activities. Additionally she became close friends with many people whom she remained friends with until her passing. Nancy moved to Placerville approximately 10 years ago where she bought her beloved home. Here as well she had many good friends and acquaintances. She was a committed and dedicated Marshall Hospital volunteer and was very active in the local Democrat Party and the Placerville Library. Nancy loved entertaining and often invited groups of friends for an afternoon party to enjoy her beautiful garden and home. Nancy loved gardening, cats, good wine, laughing and creating beautiful crafted items. She is survived by a sister, 2 brothers, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Nancy will be remembered as a generous, creative, independent, strong woman and friend. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES
PLACERVILLE CITY
COUNCIL
City Hall 3101 Center St., Placerville (530) 642-5200
Mayor Michael Saragosa
msaragosa@cityofplacerville.org
Vice Mayor Jackie Neau
jneau@cityofplacerville.org John Clerici
jclerici@cityofplacerville.org
Nicole Gotberg ngotberg@cityofplacerville.org David Yarbrough dyarbrough@cityofplacerville.
org ElL DORADO COUNTY SUPERVISORS EDC Government Center 330 Fair Lane, Placerville
District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl (530) 621-5650
District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo (530) 621-5651
District 3 Supervisor Wendy Thomas (530) 621-5652
District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin (530) 621-6513
District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine (530) 621-6577 (Placerville)
Small grass fire sparked near Eskaton in Placerville
Odin
Rasco Senior sta writer
Placerville’s Broadway erupted with the sound of sirens as firefighters and other first responders rushed to the scene of a grass fire spotted nearby shortly before 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29. Firefighters from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District received a report of a vegetation fire in a patch of trees o Blairs Lane near Eskaton Drive at 1:48 p.m., according to an EDCFPD social media post. The fire was contained within 30 minutes, with EDCFPD crews assisted by Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit, Diamond Springs Fire Protection District, Placerville Police and the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce. Because of the speedy containment, no evacuations were made and crews had fully extinguished the fire by 3:15 p.m. No injuries were reported, and no structures were near the fire, according to EDCFPD Capt. Jacob Poganski. The fire burned only a tenth of an acre before it was extinguished.
The cause of the fire was not determined, though Poganski noted a homeless campsite is located within the fire perimeter and at the origin of the fire.
Senate Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-3841 Alex Padilla 112 Hart Senate O ce Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-3553 Sacramento O ce 501 I St., Suite 7-800 Sacramento 95814 (916)
9:30 a.m.
9:30 a.m. Single service and Blessing of Animals
This special service will be in the courtyard. Invite your friends and neighbors to bring their well-behaved pets. You can also bring pictures! All furred, feathered, or scaled pets are invited!
Episcopal Church of Our Saviour 2979 Coloma Street
Placerville, California Call 530-622-2441 for more information
the San Jose Fire Department. Robert leaves behind his beloved wife, Evelyn, 3 daughters, Laurie, Kathie & Shelly. 7 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren & 1 great great grandchild.
DECISION 2024
■ Six in the running for two Cameron Park Community Services District seats
Malachi Parker
Sta writer
Sidney Bazett has been a Cameron Park resident since 1997 and is the only incumbent on the ballot running to keep his seat on the Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors.
Bazett retired from a career in education, during which he worked in administration and as a school psychologist. He now works as a real estate investor in Cameron Park. He has an extensive history of public service, serving as Peace Corps volunteer, sitting on two county commissions and being the chairman of the CPCSD CC&R Committee.
“We’re facing so many issues right now and I can’t leave until they are resolved,” Bazett said.
“Four years seems like a long time but I think the next two years there is going to be some critical changes in our district.”
The main issues Bazett said he hopes to tackle are the fire department annexation the CPCSD is currently working through with
PPD CRIME LOG
Eric
Jaramishian Senior sta writer
Cameron Park resident Tracy Doyle threw her hat into the ring after hearing talks of the Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors considering closing Fire Station 88.
Doyle, who has lived in Cameron Park since 2012, has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Louisiana State University. If elected, Doyle said she will push for transparency and accountability.
“I believe I’m good at research and looking into issues,” Doyle said. “I’m someone who is not afraid to speak out and speak the truth; we need that and I think that qualifies me to represent my neighbors and to be a voice for them in the rooms they are not in.”
As a brand partner for Young Living Essential Oils and working side gigs as a marketing and event planner, Doyle said her mind for business will help the CSD address budget issues and create a ordable events.
“We have the buildings
Eric Jaramishian
Senior sta writer
Liz Gates, a Cameron Park resident since 2001, is seeking a spot on the Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors.
Gates started attending CSD meetings as a concerned citizen, with particular interest when Cameron Park lake tennis courts went through conversions to accommodate pickleball. Actively seeking solutions to the noise issues, she became more knowledgeable about smaller forms of government and later, Gates said, neighbors encourages her to run. If elected, Gates said she will seek places for people to play pickleball. She also wants to address issues with the CSD’s budget deficit and potential fire department annexation. She wants to make maintaining the parks a priority, an aspect she thinks is neglected due to increased focus on fire safety and the budget.
One solution she o ers — a small special assessment on property
Eric Jaramishian Senior sta writer
Katie Gilchrest, a resident of Cameron Park since 1999, is running for a spot on the Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors.
Gilchrest’s top priorities are the CSD’s budget deficit and the lack of public trust between the public and the board.
“I believe we need to get the community engaged, be it regular newsletters or social media, but th ey need to know what is going on,” Gilchrest said.
Gilchrest said she thinks the biggest issue residents face is the potential closure of Cameron Park Fire Station 88, which will put a strain on response times and could cause issues with homeowners and business insurance. Gilchrest said she also will address vandalism in the community’s parks.
“I think we need to look into if the security systems that we have are adequate enough to be able to find the culprits and, if not, what can we
Malachi
Parker Sta writer
JR Hichborn has been a Cameron Park resident since 1988, when his parents moved his family here. Now he raises his daughter here.
Hichborn said he’s running for a seat on the Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors because he wants to support the parks and recreation and be apart of the fire department annexation.
“Until we know how much of that money leaves, we won’t know how much money we have to operate for other services,” Hichborn said. “Once we know what that number is we can build an actual budget.”
Hichborn explained he’s set on stopping the bleeding and building the community back to a special place to live.
“We keep losing things that make Cameron Park special,” Hichborn said. “We lost the lagoon, water slide and then the price for the Summer Spectacular was so high that 80% of people
Malachi Parker Sta writer
Barbara Rogers has been a resident of Cameron Park since 1991 and started attending Cameron park Community Services Board of Directors’ meetings in early 2003 after she retired. She has since become a fixture at meetings and known well amongst residents as a person with a strong, outspoken voice on many topics related to her community. When Rogers speaks at the podium, some audience members can be seen nodding along with her statements.
Public safety and working toward becoming fiscally solvent the main topics Rogers said she looks to tackle, if elected. The fire department annexation — talks are in the works with the El Dorado Hills Fire Department — is top concern for Rogers as far as public safety goes.
“We’re in the midst of an annexation and I want to see that fire annexation go through,” she shared. The longtime
A collection of Day Hiker columns can be seen the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays in the Mountain Democrat
The
cause symptoms and may not show up on an X-ray. They are more common in teeth that already have a compromised structure from a previous root canal or crown. The only symptom may be mild pain when biting down, until the
The most common
for a vertical root fracture is extracting the tooth to save the surrounding tissue from a chronic infection that
can compromise the ability to support an implant. Maintaining a consistent schedule of regular dental checkups will give your dentist the opportunity of keeping an eye on the state of your teeth and any possible areas of developing dental problems such as a tooth root fracture. When was your last dental visit? Now would be a good time to schedule your next exam. If you don’t have a family dentist, we are currently accepting new patients. Please call for an appointment.
P.S. Some vertical root fractures can be fixed with a special type of cement that bonds the tooth together to prevent further cracking.
Join us on Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024, 10:00 a.m.
Discover how AI can help you and your team save time, boost productivity, and unlock your creative potential.
As a small business owner or staff person, you wear many hats – from marketing to operations, every task depends on your ability to manage time and resources effectively.
But what if you could streamline those tasks and elevate your business without added stress?
Join us for a special 90-minute webinar where AI experts Frank Kenny and Norma Davey will show you how to harness the power of Arti cial Intelligence to transform your business.
You will discover helpful use cases, time-saving strategies, and creative tactics from our featured speakers:
Frank Kenny – CEO and Co-founder of the Chamber Pros Community, Frank is a seasoned chamber leader with a prov-
en track record of exceptional training on social media, digital marketing, and Arti cial Intelligence (AI).
Frank has presented for hundreds of chambers across the country, helping them and their members maximize their potential and drive success.
Norma Davey – Creative Director and co-founder of the Chamber Pros Community, Norma brings over 16 years of chamber and small business training experience.
Known for her expertise in creative marketing and technology, Norma’s insights will help your members understand how to use AI to create amazing marketing pieces and images.
Why You Should Attend:
• Save Time & Boost Productivity: Learn how to use AI so it can help you save time and be more productive.
• Enhance Creativity: Discover how AI can help you create professional-quality
The EDC Chamber Political Action Committee positions
The EDC Chamber Political Action Committee has taken the following positions:
• Proposition 2: Authorizes Bonds for Public School and Community College Facilities. – Support
• Proposition 3: Constitutional Right to Marriage. –Support
• Proposition 4: Authorizes Bonds for Safe Drinking Water, Wild re Prevention, and Protecting Communities and Natural Lands from Climate Risks. – Neutral
• Proposition 5: Authorizes Local Bonds for Affordable Housing and Public Infrastructure with 55% Voter Approval. – Oppose
• Proposition 6: Eliminates Constitutional Provision Allowing Involuntary Servitude for Incarcerated Persons. – No Position (Board did not consider this measure)
• Proposition 32: Raises Minimum Wage. – Oppose
• Proposition 33: Expands Local Governments’ Authority to Enact Rent Control on Residential Property. –Oppose
• Proposition 34: Restricts Spending of Prescription Drug Revenues by Certain Health Care Providers. – Support
• Proposition 35: Provides Permanent Funding for MediCal Health Care Services. – Neutral
• Proposition 36: Allows Felony Charges and Increases Sentences for Certain Drug and Theft Crimes. – Support
In addition, the EDC Chamber PAC has endorsed Michael Saragosa and Jackie Neau for the Placerville City Council, and Chuck Mans eld and Paul Penn for El Dorado Irrigation District Board of Directors.
marketing materials that stand out in a crowded market.
• Practical & Accessible: Whether you’re new to AI or looking to deepen your knowledge, this webinar is designed with beginners and intermediates in mind.
What You’ll Get:
• Live & On-Demand Access: Join the webinar live or watch it later – the choice is yours.
• Exclusive AI Strategies: Practical tips and case studies that you can start using immediately.
• Bonus Material: Receive Frank Kenny’s Prompting Framework, a guide to mastering AI tools, included for free when you register.
Don’t miss out on this game-changing opportunity to elevate your business with AI.
Email psi@eldoradocounty.org for your Members-Only Registration Link.
Spotlight
In today’s fast-paced digital world, standing out is more than a goal—it’s a necessity. At Robert Alan Marketing, we specialize in creating distinctive branding and effective digital marketing strategies that propel local businesses and educational institutions into the spotlight.
Our journey in rede ning brands began with a clear vision: to bridge the gap between traditional business values and the dynamic world of digital marketing. We’ve crafted unique identities for a range of clients, from bustling start-ups to cornerstone educational institutions like schools. Each branding strategy is meticulously tailored to re ect the client’s ethos and values, resonating deeply with their target audience.
One of our notable successes has been with the El Dorado Christian Preschool. Through an integrated approach combining insightful branding with strategic digital marketing, we’ve signi cantly boosted their enrollment. In fact, our campaigns have brought in over half of the students currently enrolled at the preschool which just opened its doors at the end of August. Our strategies have even landed them on the news! This achievement underscores the power of cohesive branding coupled with digital precision.
At the heart of our strategy is a deep understanding of local SEO. For schools and businesses, local visibility is essential for growth. We optimize our clients’ online presence to ensure prominent placement in local search results via Google My Business, localized content, and targeted keywords. This enhances visibility and strengthens community connections, crucial for local entities like schools.
Paid social media campaigns are another cornerstone of our approach. These campaigns are carefully designed to target speci c demographics, delivering content that engages and converts. By leveraging platforms like Facebook and Instagram, we’ve been able to create high-impact ads that highlight the unique selling points of our clients, driving both awareness and action.
Our effectiveness in digital marketing isn’t just about spreading the word; it’s about creating messages that stick and results that count. We track the performance of our campaigns in real-time, allowing us to make data-driven decisions that enhance our strategies and maximize ROI for our clients.
As we continue to serve the local community, our mission remains clear: to help each client achieve their unique goals by providing exceptional branding and digital marketing services. We invite you to join us in this journey of transformation and discover what your brand can truly achieve. You can check us out at www.RobertAlanMarketing.com or by calling Robert at 530-206-8456.
Chamber Champions:
RIDES WITH ROB
Affordable Airport Shuttle Services and Wine Tours in the Foothills
“At Rides With Rob, we offer more than just transportation; we provide a gateway to the breathtaking Sierra foothills while ensuring seamless travel to and from Sacramento, Reno and Bay Area airports. Additionally, we offer curated wine tours to El Dorado and Amador counties. Our founder, Rob DiNunzio, brings a passion for exceptional service and a deep connection to the local area, making every journey with us unique and memorable.”
Call or Text for a Quote! (530) 683-7303 • https://rideswithrob.com/
7 ELEVEN GRAND OPENING
POLITICAL SPEECH IN THE WORKPLACE: Strategic Considerations for Employers
Political speech in the workplace has become a growing concern for employers in recent years. The polarized political climate, combined with the increasing use of social media and digital communication, has amplified the visibility and impact of employees’ political views.
While political discourse can foster vibrant and diverse ideas, it also poses significant challenges for employers.
Balancing employees’ rights with the need to maintain a harmonious and productive work environment requires a nuanced approach. This article explores strategic considerations for employers in addressing political speech in the workplace as we approach a historic presidential election Quick Hits
• The First Amendment generally applies to governmental actors, but private employers still must comply with the NLRA, which protects employees’ right to engage in concerted activity related to their working conditions.
• Several states, including California, Connecticut, Colorado, and New York, provide additional protections for speech, o -duty conduct, and political a liations and beliefs for private-sector employees.
• Employer strategies for maintaining positive, productive workplaces include developing and updating workplace speech policies, providing training and education related to maintaining a respectful and inclusive work environment, encouraging respectful dialogue, and promptly monitoring and addressing issues.
The Legal Landscape
Employers must navigate a complex web of federal and state laws when addressing
Miners on Main Scavenger Hunt
There are ten “Miners” hidden throughout Main Street Placerville from Sacramento Street to Clay Street. These Miners all had an impact on Placerville and El Dorado County during the Gold Rush period. Each miner has a QR code on the medallion that will take you to a webpage about the miners when scanned with your phone camera. So grab your phone and begin your hunt. visit-eldorado.com/miners-on-main/ Certi ed Farmer’s Markets https://www.eldoradocounty.ca.gov/LandUse/Agriculture-Weights-and-Measures/ Certified-Farmers-Market
Placerville Speedway October 5, 2024, AMA District 36 Flat Track Motorcycle Racing 100 Placerville Dr. www.placervillespeedway.com/schedule
Oct 4 Friday Night Flights at Sierra Vista 4 - 8:00 pm. Come tantalize your taste buds with Our Friday Night Flights, Each Guest must purchase their own ticket for the flight. Wine by the glass or bottle for purchase. To make a reservation, call our tasting room 530-622-7221.
Oct 4 Burgers and Karaoke
5 – 10 p.m. Placerville Elks Lodge, 3821 Quest Ct, Shingle Springs. Great burgers and singing to the delight of the Elks audience. secretary1712@gmail.com
Oct 5 Friends of the Library Book
Sale 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 345 Fair Lane, Placerville. Fill up and take away a bag of books for only $7. There is a wide variety of fiction, non-fiction, vintage and children’s books. Puzzles, DVDs, sheet music, and more! Located in the garage behind the Placerville library. FOLPLV@icloud.com
Oct 5 Country Line Dancing & Lessons Presented by VFW Auxiliary, 6 - 9:30 p.m.
political speech in the workplace. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects free speech, generally applies to governmental actors and not to private employers. Private employers have more latitude than public employers when it comes to regulating political speech. However, private employers must comply with the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which protects employees’ right to engage in concerted activity related to working conditions, which may include discussing politics. Additionally, various state laws provide protections for employees’ political activities and a liations. For instance, California and New York prohibit employers from discriminating against employees based on their political beliefs or activities.
Possible Risks of Political Speech in the Workplace
Workplace conflict and morale: Political discussions can lead to heated arguments and create a divisive work environment. This can lower employee morale, reduce productivity, increase turnover, and perhaps at worst, result in workplace violence.
Discrimination and harassment claims: Political speech can sometimes cross the line into discriminatory or harassing behavior, leading to potential legal claims. For example, political discussions that touch on race, gender, or other protected characteristics may result in claims of a hostile work environment.
Reputation and public relations: Controversial statements made by employees, especially those in leadership positions, can damage the company’s reputation and lead to public backlash.
Veterans Memorial Hall, 130 Placerville Dr., Placerville. $10/per person. All proceeds go to support our veterans.
Mimosa Sundays 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Come out and enjoy a picnic on our patio. Guests can also contact Ranch Girls Dream to order personal charcuterie platters that will be delivered to the vineyard to enjoy with their mimosas. cielosullaterra.com
Oct 6 Placerville Elks Lodge Bingo 1 - 4 p.m. First Sundays. A great day of Bingo and friends supporting charities of the Elks. secretary1712@gmail.com
Oct 10 Honor Our Troops 16th
Annual Spaghetti Feed 4 - 8:00 pm. American Legion Hall, 4561 Greenstone Road, Placerville. Adults $15 & kids under 10 $7. Full dinner including desserts and lemonade. Full no host bar open. Any service member - both military & civilian (First Responders) in uniform eats for free! Tickets available at the door. We also have a “drive thru” if you cannot stay. For those who can stay we have great raffle opportunities and live entertainment. Fun for the whole family! For questions, please see our website www.HonorOurTroops.us or call/text me at (916) 207-4194 or email at Cyndi@ CyndiRomano.com.
Oct 11-13 Coloma Gold Rush Live
310 Back Street, Coloma. Experience California’s rich Gold Rush history during Coloma Gold Rush Live, Visit with volunteers in period attire as they recreate what Coloma may have been like in 1850. Fri –Sat 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sun 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. www.parks.ca.gov/marshallgold
Oct 11 Pollock Pines/Camino Taco Night
4:30 – 7 p.m. 2675 Sanders Drive, Pollock Pines. pollockpinesca.org
Oct 12 Gold Hill Vineyard Craft Fair
11 a.m. - 4 p.m. 5660 Vineyard Ln, Placerville. Join us 1st Craft Faire! We have
State Law Considerations
Even in the absence of federal constitutional or statutory protections, several states have laws that may a ord additional protections for employees, thereby limiting private employers’ ability to restrict their employees’ political activities. These considerations include:
• Statutes that protect private employees’ political activities: Some states, including California, have statutes that specifically protect private employees’ political activities from employer interference, discrimination, or retaliation.
• Statutes that a ord broad free speech protections without regard to state action: A few states, including Connecticut, have broad free speech provisions without a state action requirement. However, these states may include exceptions centered on whether the employees’ activity substantially interferes with the employers’ interests or employees’ job performance.
• “O -duty” protections: Other states, such as Colorado, have statutes that protect employees’ lawful o -duty activities, conduct, and/or speech. These statutes are sometimes referred to as “lifestyle” statutes. However, these statutes may also contain exceptions to the general rules if, for example, an employee’s activities create a conflict of interest.
Key Strategies for Employers
Developing or updating policies: Employers may want to create comprehensive policies that address political speech in the workplace. Ideally, these policies would clearly define acceptable and unacceptable behaviors and outline the consequences for violations.
some amazing vendors and food! Come shop, drink wine or beer and enjoy some delicious food!! (530) 626-6522, info@goldhillvineyard.com
Oct 12 Jesus Fest 3 - 7:00 p.m. 27 Fair Ln, Placerville. HOPE for the lost, REVIVING the saved - together as ONE Church. Free Praise and Worship Event. Bring your family and friends! staceystandal@gmail.com , 530-344-3222.
Oct 18 Shingle Springs Community Center Bunko Dinner
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. 4440 South Shingle Road. Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Hard Seltzers, & raffle tickets available for purchase! Bunko nights are great for new and current residents, singles, and couples alike to meet new friends and old. Featuring a Hearty Dinner, Bunko play, cash prizes & door prizes. Raffle tickets & adult beverages available for purchase. No need to know the game; we explain everything! Shingle Springs Community Center. 530-672-7442
October 19 Hands and Hoofs Youth Outdoor Day Camp A Day of Outdoor Adventure Connecting Horses, Nature, Art, Friendship, & Discovery. Sign up now to reserve your spot! www. handsandhoofs.com/
Oct 19 Third Saturday Artwalk Placerville’s Historic Main Street galleries and merchants are open late for shopping, dining, live music and more! thirdsaturdayartwalk@gmail.com
Oct 19 Hangtown Car Show
9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 100 Placerville Drive. The Placerville Lions is celebrating 100 years of service in our community at this event. If you want to show your car, the cost is $35 and you can begin arriving at 9:30 a.m. You must be pre-registered to show. placerville. lions@gmail.com
Oct 20 Music on the Divide
3 – 5 p.m. IOOF Hall, 6240 Main Street, Georgetown. Richard Smith, guitar picking virtuoso. Think Chet Atkins meets Tommy
Applying these policies consistently can help avoid claims of bias or discrimination.
Training and education: Regular training sessions can help employees understand the company’s policies and the importance of maintaining a respectful and inclusive work environment. Training typically emphasizes the distinction between personal opinions and professional conduct. As the election draws closer, consider recirculating company policies related to workplace conduct. Encouraging respectful dialogue: Employers can foster a culture of respect by encouraging employees to engage in civil discourse and respect di ering viewpoints. This can be achieved through workshops, team-building activities, and open forums where employees can discuss sensitive topics in a controlled and respectful manner.
Monitoring and addressing issues promptly: Employers may want to have mechanisms in place to monitor conduct in the workplace and address issues promptly. This includes having a clear process for employees to report concerns and ensuring that all complaints are investigated thoroughly and impartially.
Key Takeaways
The dangers of political speech in the workplace are multifaceted, encompassing legal, social, and operational risks. For small and large corporations, developing strategies that balance the need for a respectful and inclusive work environment with the rights of employees is a key strategy. By implementing clear policies, providing training, and fostering respectful dialogue, organizations can navigate the challenges of political speech and create a harmonious workplace.
Emmanuel. Richard plays country, bluegrass, blues, ragtime, folk, jazz, pop and classical music. 530-350-8354, www.musiconthedivide.org
Oct 21 The Center Drive Fore Change Inaugural Golf Classic
10 a.m - 4 p.m. Cameron Park Country Club, 3101 Royal Drive. The tournament will be a scramble format, with registration and breakfast starting at 8:30 a.m.. The shotgun start will be at 10 a.m., followed by lunch, awards, raffle & auction. Join us as a single player ($175 per player), foursome ($700 per foursome), or sponsor. joanneh@thecenternow.org
Oct 25 Trick Or Treat at Burke Junction 4 – 7 p.m. 3300 Coach Ln, Cameron Park. Don
- 9:30 p.m. Family-friendly $10/person, $5/wine club, $5/kids under 12. Wine, hard cider and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase by glass or bottle. Hart2Hart Vineyards, 530-885-9463
OPINION
California Matters
Gavin Newsom can’t prove price gouging at the pump but wants new refinery
It’s time to blow the whistle on the farcical e orts of California’s politicians — especially Gov. Gavin Newsom — to reduce the state’s high gasoline prices.
Newsom’s demand that the Legislature, which adjourned for the year in early September, reconvene in a special session on gas prices continues his crusade against the oil industry, charging it with price gouging.
DAN WALTERS
However Newsom has never o ered any persuasive evidence of such behavior, nor has it been confirmed by those who have seriously examined the factors that cause California gas prices to be the highest, or nearly the highest, of any state.
Severin Borenstein, a UC Berkeley economist regarded as the state’s leading expert on the issue, parsed the di erential in a 2023 paper, pointing out that California’s direct and indirect taxes on fuel amount to nearly $1 per gallon — 70 cents higher than the national average of such taxes — and the state’s unique fuel blend to battle smog adds another dime.
Borenstein’s calculations leave what he calls the “mystery gasoline surcharge” of about 43 cents a gallon that cannot be directly attributed to crude oil prices, California’s taxes or other obvious factors. However, at least some of it reflects the relatively high costs of doing any kind of business in California — rents, electricity and other utilities, wages and regulatory overhead, for example.
The state Energy Commission declared in a recent analysis that Newsom’s proposal has the potential to “arti cially create shortages in downstream markets” and “increase average prices.”
Newsom’s latest foray is a demand that the Legislature order refineries to put more fuel into storage, as a bu er against price spikes caused by refinery outages or other factors.
Superficially that sounds plausible, but it assumes that refiners have storage capacity to comply with such a law or could easily expand storage. But storage is not without its costs, which could drive retail prices even higher.
The state Energy Commission declared in a recent analysis that Newsom’s proposal has the potential to “artificially create shortages in downstream markets” and “increase average prices.”
■ See WALTERS, page A7
The Balancing Act
Richard B. Esposito Publisher
Letters to the Editor
In law enforcement’s shoes
EDITOR:
Simpler policing? Rusty Groves wrote to complain that our police need to be more like the Andy and Barney of “The Andy Gri th Show.” Mr. Groves, even Andy Gri th said that his real hometown, Mount Airy, NC, on which Mayberry was based, was nothing like the fictional Mayberry.
What causes the Rusty Groves of the world to believe that police constantly overreact is that they put themselves in the place of the subject being contacted by police. They envision that person acting as rational as they would and therefore view the police response as an overreaction.
Mr. Groves, many of the subjects police contact are not that level-headed or well-behaved person you imagine them to be, or as you might be in that situation, and therefore get a harsher response. If our sheri ’s department would allow it, I think you might benefit from some ride-alongs that could inject reality into your thinking.
And as to the weapons that law enforcement carry, this isn’t Dodge City where the marshal engages in a quickdraw contest with the bad guy in the middle of the street. A law enforcement career is not a suicide pact. So again, Mr. Groves, if the sheri does allow ride-alongs I think you might benefit from the experience.
GEORGE ALGER Placerville
Support local business
EDITOR:
This is an open letter to Hong Kong Inn regarding the tragic and heartbreaking events of Sept. 16.
How can we help?
Local businesses are essential to our local economy. But, more than that, local businesses are family.
Dear Hong Kong Inn, the first fancy meal that I enjoyed when I moved to Placerville was at your lovely restaurant. It felt like home, a sweet comfortable and caring family-friendly dining experience. I have so many fond memories of eating at Hong Kong Inn.
I was shocked, and deeply saddened when I heard, and then read in the Mountain Democrat of the vehicle that crashed into your place of business. How can I and any other member of our compassionate community help?
Please, tell us. I want to be an ally and, in my heart, I have faith that many kind-hearted citizens of Placerville would wish to support you during this time.
You are not alone.
■
Presidential candidate Kamala Harris, lies and videotape
Democrat presidential candidate Kamala Harris lies so much it is di cult to keep count.
One of her biggest lies — saying Jan. 6, 2021, was “the worst attack on our democracy since the Civil War.” What an outlandish statement. No one was killed other than a peaceful protester, shot by a Capitol police o cer.
On 9/11 nearly 3,000 people were killed at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and in a field in Shanksville, Pa. Don’t forget about the thousands who were injured, many severely, nevermind the hundreds of firefighters and police who lost their lives. And how
could Harris forget about Pearl Harbor where we lost almost 2,500 sailors, soldiers and civilians, nevermind the near destruction of our Navy? I could go on, but in comparison to those tragedies and so many others, Jan. 6, 2021, was a big fat nothing burger. Which only exemplifies the nothingness of Kamala Harris.
Harris opened last moth’s debate by completely failing to answer the first question of the night, “Are Americans better o now than they were four years ago?” Instead, she went on to tell us she was raised middle class. Sure, her dad was an economics professor at Stanford and her mother a
biologist. Both were Berkeley Ph.D.s.
The point being she couldn’t admit the answer was “no” for middle- and lower- class of America.
We all know why. Wages are down, unemployment is up and inflation is through the roof. Since January 2021, housing is up 22.7%, utilities are up 27.6%, auto insurance is up 55.6%, gasoline is up 45% and food is up 23%. Inflation is still going up and wages are not keeping up. Too bad Harris never got a question on solving inflation. She can’t with her deficit spending and giveaways.
Harris spread the lie about former President Trump’s Charlotteville statement, “There are good people on both sides (for and against monuments.)” Trump did not support the KKK. This has been disproven for years yet Harris continues with the lie.
Harris also reiterated the lie Trump allegedly said if he is not elected there will be a “bloodbath.” Trump said that in reference to the current administration’s poor foreign trade deals. “It would be an economic bloodbath for Detroit.” Gee, you think she intentional left out the word “economic?”
Harris also lied about Project 2025 when she attributed the document to President Trump. Project 2025 is the work of the Heritage Foundation and has nothing to do with Trump — and she knows that.
Harris lied when she claimed Trump would sign a national abortion ban. Trump has said repeatedly, abortion is an issue left to states (voters) to decide (10th Amendment). Harris lied when she said Trump would ban IVF (invitro
FRANCISCO U. RODRIGUEZ Placerville ■
Walters Continued from A6
The commission says “there may be a case for additional storage as a matter of maintaining supply resiliency for the next two decades, but such investments do pose a stranded assets risk. More analysis is needed to determine whether the benefits of enhanced supply resiliency are worth the investment in the near term.”
Newsom wants the Legislature to act immediately without “more analysis,” which is the antithesis of prudent lawmaking. Republican legislators are being semi-complicit by agreeing with Newsom that there is a gasoline price crisis. But they imprudently propose to lower or eliminate gas taxes, which are vital to the restoration of California’s muchneglected highway system.
Weitzman Continued from A6 fertilization). Trump said he would not ban IVF and would have the federal government pay for it. Harris also refused to answer whether she would ban fullterm abortions, with exceptions.
Harris said she would not ban guns, but in her one 2019 debate, after being told by Joe Biden the 2nd Amendment says she probably can’t, she responded, “We can try to do it,” and then cackled.
When she was running for president in 2019, she repeatedly said she would ban fracking, global warming is an existential threat, ban other petroleum products, mandate EVs and the continuing tax credits while promoting wokeism.
California refineries not only supply the state with a unique formula of fuel designed to battle smog, which is expensive unto itself, but they provide large shares of fuel consumed in Nevada and Arizona. Those governors sent Newsom a letter citing the Energy Commission analysis of potential cost effects.
“This conclusion alone is deeply troubling and warrants bipartisan, regional communication on this legislation before proceeding,” wrote Katie Hobbs, an Arizona Democrat, and Republican Joe Lombardo of Nevada.
There is no gas price crisis that demands immediate action. A far more serious issue is whether California can manage its conversion of
She has now reversed her positions.
During a recent interview with CNN, she claimed her values have not changed. Was she lying to CNN or was she lying in 2019?
Harris wanted to ban fracking and other petroleum production, now she says she backs it. She is not to be believed.
As proof, on day one of the Biden/Harris administration they blocked the already well into production Keystone Pipeline, destroying hundreds of high paying jobs. Then Biden issued executive orders to restrict oil drilling offshore, drilling in Alaska and in many other areas.
by Joel Fagliano No.
transportation and other economic sectors from carbon fuels to electricity without major economic disruptions. The state wants its dwindling number of refineries to stop producing gasoline and diesel fuel over the next two decades.
Moreover, there are genuine crises that Newsom and legislators have been unwilling or unable to resolve, such as California children’s abysmally low scores on tests of reading and mathematics skills, an ever-rising number of homeless people, the nation’s highest level of poverty and the state’s uncertain water supply.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
As to EVs mandates, Harris cast the tie vote in the Senate on a bill that even lied about its title, “The Inflation Reduction Act,” to extend the EV mandate and EV credits, which include $7 billion for hundreds of charging stations (just seven have been built). The entire bill added $1.5 trillion to our deficit, part of the cause for the massive, 21%-plus, inflation since January 2021.
And if you think Kamala Harris is not a liar, just watch the video of her excusing Joe Biden’s June 27 debate performance with Anderson Cooper. She was still denying Biden’s huge mental and physical decline, a picture of “gaslighting.” Yeah, Harris is a politician who has no compunction about lying when it suits her, saying anything for power.
Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.
Mansfield for EID seat
EDITOR:
Chuck Mansfield is running for the open Division 3 seat on the EID Board of Directors. I’ve known Chuck for years and know that he cares deeply about agriculture, El Dorado County and creating a stable and prosperous future for the farmers, businesses and families here.
After meeting with Chuck personally to discuss his EID candidacy, it is also clear he shares the same values of fiscal conservatism that I fought so hard to implement in the Legislature and he is already expert in EID issues. That is a great combination for an effective EID leader. He would hit the ground running and be a strong advocate for the region there, helping to ensure affordable, abundant water for EID customers.
Chuck is a successful Apple Hill fruit grower and runs Goldbud Farms. He understands EID and El Dorado County’s needs and values and he has my full support in his run for the EID Division 3 Director seat. Vote Mansfield on Nov. 5. SEN. TED GAINES (ret.) Shingle Springs
Announcements
AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com
AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net
AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org
El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net
PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452. We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.
GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part
harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Cindy 805-540-8654. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.
SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started.
TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.
DENTAL Insurance
El Dorado falls short in cat fight
Malachi Parker Staff writer
A cat fight between the El Dorado Cougars and the Bradshaw Christian Pride ended in a 35-6 loss for the Cougars.
The Cougars were riding in high after stacking back-to-back wins against East Nicolaus and in their league opener against Argonaut.
“We challenged our guys to come out after halftime and fight,” El Dorado head coach Kevin Placek said.
the game after a Bella Vista rushing touchdown. The Bruins responded by scoring 14 unanswered points and putting the game to rest with a touchdown with less than a minute left.
The Bruins now improve to 5-1 overall and 1-1 in league play. They head into their bye week this week and will be back in action Friday, Oct. 11, when the team travels down the hill to play Christian Brothers.
“We knew we were better than what we showed in the first half and they answered the call.”
The Cougars were down 27-0 at the half after their slow start. They were able to put a score on the board with a well designed screen play to junior running back Tyler Villa in the final minutes of the game — a move the Cougars can build into next week’s playbook.
The Cougars are now 2-3 overall on the season and 1-1 in league play. They will be on the road Friday, Oct. 4, to take on Galt as they look to get back in the win column.
Football roundup
Ponderosa 28, Bella Vista 13 —
The Ponderosa Bruins bounce back to their winning ways after suffering their first loss of the season in their league opener at the hands of the Woodcreek Timberwolves.
According to MaxPreps score tracker, it was a one point game with approximately 10 minutes to go in
Union Mine 35, Argonaut-0 — The Union Mine Diamondbacks have now won three straight behind their defense and run game. They pitch a shutout for the first time this season and are stacking wins as the weeks pass. They are now 4-1 overall and 2-0 in league play. The Diamondbacks will be back at home Friday, Oct. 4, to host Rosemont, who is coming in hot off of a 47-0 win over Galt.
Oak Ridge 30, Granite Bay 17 —
The Oak Ridge Trojans have turned a page since league play started as they walked into Granite Bay and handed the Grizzlies their first loss of the season. The Trojans offense was once again powered by the engine of Jasen Womack, who had two rushing touchdowns and caught another one for a total of three on the night — a great way to follow up his fourtouchdown performance the week prior against Del Oro. After starting 0-3, the Trojans are now 2-3 overall and 2-0 in league with their heavily anticipated matchup with Folsom on the horizon. They will play host when the Bulldogs make the trip up the street on Friday, Oct. 4.
Ban on intoxicating hemp products in effect
California Department of Public Health News release
SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom last week announced California’s emergency regulations to protect children and teens from the adverse effects of dangerous intoxicating hemp products are now in effect. Retailers must cease selling any industrial hemp food, beverage or dietary product intended for human consumption if there is any detectable THC or other intoxicating cannabinoids per serving. The regulations, proposed by the California Department of Public Health, were approved by the Office of Administrative Law.
The emergency regulations respond to increasing health incidents related to intoxicating hemp products, which state regulators have found sold across the state. Children are particularly at risk should they consume these products. Studies show that use of these products can negatively impact cognitive
functions, memory and decisionmaking abilities in developing brains.
The new regulations for hemp-derived food, beverage and dietary products:
• Ban any detectable amount of THC or other intoxicating cannabinoids per serving.
• Ban sales to people younger than 21.
• Limit servings to five per package. The regulations do not ban hempderived CBD products with no detectable THC or other intoxicating cannabinoids nor do they impact the sale of any cannabis products. Cannabis products, including products purchased for medical use and products with CBD and THC, will remain for sale at cannabis dispensaries.
State regulators, including CDPH, the Department of Cannabis Control, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, the CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration and state and local law enforcement officials, will begin immediate action to enforce these requirements.
Continued from A3
and I can’t see myself leaving until it is resolved,” Bazett shared. “I have that passion and sense of community that I need to see it through.”
Continued from A3
where you can hold events; you have the lake
income, I understand needs, wants and how to look at money, and we can’t spend money we don’t have,” she shared. “I feel like sometimes in government, elected officials treat the public’s funds like it’s Monopoly (money).” Additionally, she said she will fight to keep Station 88 open. Doyle
“Being
this point. It’s like, I’m trying to look at these two things at the same time,” Harkin said. “The issue with the Mello-Roos bond money is very serious. That’s public money. The county is supposed to be managing it, so how could they misuse it? I said one sentence, ‘Where’s the bond money?’”
A series of email exchanges between Harkin and Laine followed. One dated Aug. 16 shows Laine asking Harkin to send a formal letter or email confirming his resignation, and her wish that Harkin serve until the Sept. 12 meeting to “give the new appointee time to get up to speed.”
Harkin complied hours later but tried to rescind his resignation on Aug. 23 & Aug. 29. His reason stemmed from another commission meeting the day before when Dean Getz revealed himself during public comment to be the correspondent and defended Harkin.
“... Mr. Harkin is leaving and I don’t believe that is under his terms as his term of office was through 2027,” Getz stated, revealing a possible connection between a $19,000 contribution to Laine’s supervisor campaign from Natomas-based McNally Temple Associates, a political consulting and public relations company that Getz claims “is a friend of Serrano.”
During a Sept. 12 meeting, the last meeting when he would retain his position, Harkin further questioned his unusual manner of removal from the Planning Commission when Laine attempted to present him with a certificate and thank him for his service, which he declined as she went up to the dais.
“The questions continue to not be answered; rather that I be made to quietly disappear,” Harkin publicly stated. “I was already halfway out the door anyway; I’m not a politician. I didn’t want to be here and I didn’t want to have to do this … but a concerned citizen brought some pretty serious accusations through this commission publicly, and I was the only one that asked that question.”
Although Laine declined to comment on why she dismissed Harkin, an email from Harkin to Laine and Planning Commission Chair Andy Nevis dated March 4, 2024, states he felt “burnt out” from studying for his brokers licensing tests and studies.
“I wanted to send out an email to you folks regarding the District 5 Planning Commissioner seat,” Harkin writes in the email. “I have reached a point where I am now looking for a reason to stay. Any thoughts
Gates Continued from A3
taxes as she opposes installing an automated gate at Cameron Park Lake.
“I think there’s a number of people that live in this community ... (who) would feel (a gate) makes those things less accessible to some people.”
Though not a politician, Gates said she will bring transparency and honest communication to her constituents if elected.
“Searching for facts and knowing how to work with other people to
Continued from A3
do to increase those,” Gilchrest said. “I think working with local agencies such as the Sheriff’s Office to talk about different programs ... would help also.”
Gilchrest said she has handled multi-million dollar budgets in her career — currently working for Taylor Company, the 6th largest graphics and printing services company in the nation — gaining a sense of fiscal responsibility and knowledge. She said she’d like to see quarterly reports on the CSD’s budget to inform the
Hichborn Continued from A3
chose not to go. Parks and rec builds communities and gives them identity; I fear we have lost our identity.”
Hichborn has been in the parks and recreation industry for 25 years and counting. From 1998-2016 he worked for the CPCSD until he accepted a
Rogers Continued from A3
community advocate has also pushed for transparency from the CPCSD board and staff and said she believes complete transparency, engaging with residents and more public participation are the stepping stones to the public’s faith being restored in the district.
Rogers worked for the Placerville Fire Department in 1978 as
or insights into the question would be appreciated. I will sooner rather than later come to the conclusion that I may have served my usefulness (or not) being there as a planning commissioner.”
Laine also alluded during the Sept. 12 commission meeting that there was no correlation between his removal and his accusations that followed.
“I stand by my comments that I appreciate the time and interest that you have put into the commission, and I can say there is no relationship, zero, to your comments and my asking you to resign,” Laine told Harkin.
“They ... catastrophically occurred (simultaneously) … I had absolutely no knowledge of anything that you are talking about right now, so I stand by my comments and I don’t want to belabor this any further.”
Nevertheless, Harkin remains adamant about how he was dismissed.
“My resolve is cemented. I’m going to get to the bottom of this as best as I can,” Harkin told the Mountain Democrat. “This is not OK. If they said come back and finish your term, it’s not going to stop by looking into this. Me not being there is not going to stop me looking into this.”
Patrick Frega has replaced Harkin and his term will end in 2027. Frega’s district represents much of the east side of the county from Pollock Pines to the Tahoe Basin.
“I appreciate Mr. Harkin’s service to the residents of El Dorado County,” Laine told the Mountain Democrat.
“My decision to appoint Mr. Frega was solely based on his many years of experience and the strong voice that he will bring to the Planning Commission process.”
This is the third time in less than three years a Planning Commissioner has been removed from the commission.
Former District 2 Dr. Cheryl Bly-Chester was removed from the Planning Commission in late August 2021 on a 3-2 vote (her own supervisor voting against her removal). At the time, former District 5 Supervisor Sue Novasel called for her removal, citing “inappropriate and abusive behavior” toward county staff and repeated accusations that the county Planning Commission was in violation of the Brown Act. BlyChester has since taken the county to court for defamation, whistleblower retaliation and wrongful termination.
Additionally, former Planning Commissioner Kris Payne, representing District 2, was replaced in March 2024 by Bob Williams before his term was up for unknown reasons.
come to a consensus to do the best thing going forward — all of these things I think I’m pretty good at since I’ve learned and done it all my life,” she shared.
If she is not substitute teaching, Gates is volunteering at local elementary schools. She has leads a preschool ministry at Cameron Park’s Faith Episcopal Church and has volunteered at the Upper Room Dining Hall in Placerville.
community on the district’s financial standing.
“I will work very hard to do everything I can to turn the CSD around,” Gilchrest said.
She has held board positions for the Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce and the Kiwanis Club of Folsom Lake and done volunteer work for the the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Alzheimer’s Association and the American Stroke and American Heart associations.
COMICS
n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
position with El Dorado Hills CSD as its parks superintendent.
“I have had an opportunity to see how other districts operate and I believe I can bring some of those successful techniques to Cameron Park,” Hichborn said.
secretary to the chief. In 1991 the fire department became part of the newly consolidated El Dorado County Fire Protection District, where Rogers managed budgets, payroll and accounts. She retired after 26 years, in December of 2004, but later worked part time for the fire department in Diamond Springs.
n
by Chad Carpenter
n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
SUDOKU
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Messages that float into your realm aren’t necessarily intended for you. In fact, there’s much going on today that you needn’t bother with, which will come as a liberation; you have a choice about what to concern yourself with.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). As compassionate as you are, listening to someone talk aimlessly without regard for your interest can feel like an assault. The positive angle: It inspires you to want to craft your stories better, a skill with farreaching benefits.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). There are many kinds of selfcare, and you’ll apply the concept to your social, professional, emotional and financial world. This holistic approach to your well-being will address many needs at once.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). You view a past relationship with the relief of one who’s dodged a bullet. As much as it made sense back then, it’s a source of bafflement now. Being hard-pressed to explain the attraction is a testament to your growth.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’re not the easiest person to praise, as you’re disinterested in flattery and only moved by sincere and astute observations that few of your fans are capable of. If they were, they’d pay you the sweetest compliments today.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Though you aim to be in control of your moods and not the other way around, the fact is that beautiful weather and people tend to buoy your spirits, and there is nothing wrong with that. Go to where they are and
feel uplifted.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). If you can’t perform the experiment that will prove or disprove your vision, go forward as though it’s all true and let life tell you what’s possible. You just might do what’s never been done before.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Even as you embrace, to some extent, an ethic of minimalism, there are accoutrements you consider to be personal staples. You’re about to discover new items that will once again alter
applause of “self” is excellent indeed. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). If an interruption is welcome, is it really an interruption? If the distraction adds texture or context to your work, is it really a distraction? If the interaction brings you joy, is
Supply drive helps kids prep for school
Karen Brown Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Di erence
or the 11th year, local nonprofit organization Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Di erence’s youth-led School Supply Committee has collected, sorted and distributed new backpacks and school supplies to nearly 650 students in need.
Operating through an after-school committee structure, 15 middle and high school age youth who reside from Folsom to Placerville began meeting in early May. First, they worked with local businesses from Folsom to Placerville to host donation collection bins. They coordinated with El Dorado Hills Town Center and the El Dorado County O ce of Education to host a Stu the Bus event on July 17,
which was also the ending date for most collection sites. These e orts resulted in the collection of more than 28,000 items, including 745 backpacks; which amount to a collective estimated value of $46,000.
“In the 2023-24 school year, 855 children in kindergarten through 12th grade experienced homelessness while ■ See SCHOOL
Tahoe and surrounding snow-capped peaks of the
Nevada. I went hiking with my oldest son Canyon, his brilliant girlfriend Emily and faithful Stella the wonder dog to Monkey Rock in late spring. We drove the
El Dorado DAR off to a great start
Carol Bly
National Daughters of the American Revolution – El Dorado Chapter
Members of the El Dorado Chapter of the National Daughters of the American Revolution enjoyed their first meeting of the season with new Regent Rebecca Parks and members of the board. DAR was founded in 1890 with the simple mission of promoting historical preservation, education and patriotism. DAR is a nonprofit, nonpolitical volunteer women’s service organization with chapters located nationwide and throughout the world. The El Dorado Chapter was founded in the fall of 1978 and has enthusiastically been making plans over the summer to be implemented
throughout the 2024-25 cycle. Chapter members will work together in support of schools, organizations for veterans, donations, promoting regional and national history and embracing partnerships with other like-minded organizations.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is a lineage-based membership service organization for women who are directly descended from a person involved in supporting the American Revolutionary War. To learn more about the work of today’s NDAR visit DAR.org and for more information about the El Dorado Chapter or if you wish to learn about your Revolutionary War ancestors contact the Parks at regent@eldorado. californiadar.org.
Animal blessings offered at Faith Episcopal Church
News release
Faith Episcopal Church invites all creatures great and small to be blessed during St. Francis of Assisi Day, which will be celebrated at worship services at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 6.
“Even if you’re not particularly religious, this is a fun celebration to join us for,” said Rev. Tom Gartin, rector of Faith Episcopal Church. “Our animals are constant reminders of the love, humor and creativity with which we all are made, and I love getting to meet so many loving pets. We are also happy to bless them through photographs if they would be happier at home like my cats are.”
Bring to church your favorite furry, feathered or four-legged family member. Pet parishioners must be leashed or in a carrier.
Larger pets, including horses and llamas, will receive personalized drive-through blessings in the parking lot immediately following the worship service.
The practice of blessing pets on the first Sunday in October dates back 800 years to St. Francis of Assisi who was the patron saint of animals and the environment. He was known to preach to animals and is portrayed in garden statues today.
Along with the Blessing of the Animals, Faith Episcopal Church is hosting a pet food drive during the month of October. The food will be donated to El Dorado County Animal Services. Please drop canned or dry cat or dog food off at the church on Sundays or during the week, Mondays through Wednesdays, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Faith Episcopal Church is located at 2200 Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. Visit faithec.org for more information.
El Dorado Center invites community to open house
News release
Folsom Lake College’s El Dorado Center is celebrating its 30th anniversary at its campus in the heart of the Sierra foothills.
In honor of this milestone, college officials will host a community open house, 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, at 6699 Campus Drive in Placerville.
“We invite the community to join us in rediscovering or exploring for the first time the exceptional people, dynamic programs and picturesque campus that have established the El Dorado Center as an educational cornerstone in this region for over 30 years,” said Folsom Lake College President Dr. Art Pimentel. “The college is thrilled to welcome emeriti faculty and staff, alumni, current
students and employees, prospective students, as well as our high school and community partners, along with the broader community, to this special event.”
Activities planned include a brief speaking program at 4:30 p.m., along with birthday cake, music and festivities showcasing all that makes the El Dorado Center unique, including booths from the El Dorado County Office of Education, Mountainside Middle College High School and the Community Observatory. Admission and parking are free. A campus map can be found at flc. losrios.edu. For more information call (530) 344-5716.
About Folsom Lake College
Since 2004, Folsom Lake College has provided exceptional educational opportunities to the communities of eastern Sacramento and western El Dorado counties. The college serves over 11,000 students at the main Folsom campus, the El Dorado Center in Placerville, the Rancho Cordova Center and online. FLC is committed to enriching and empowering students by bridging knowledge, experience and innovation. FLC offers educational opportunities and support for students to transfer to four-year institutions, to improve foundational skills, to achieve career goals and to earn associate degrees or certificates.
Community foundation to host
free grant writing workshop
Chris Ringnes
El Dorado Community Foundation
El Dorado County nonprofits serving veterans are invited to attend a grant writing workshop, 1-3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8, at El Dorado Community Foundation, 312 Main St., Suite 201, Placerville. This free workshops will teach about nonprofit compliance and how to complete the El Dorado Community Foundation’s Veterans TOT grant application before it opens again next
spring. Sign up at zeffy.com/ticketing/ 7a94395d-05b6-4de0-8cc82d8aa8473c76.
El Dorado Community Foundation is dedicated to strengthening the community both now and for future generations. Since 1991, the foundation has helped generous community members make the most of their charitable giving. To learn more about the foundation, its mission, its donors and its community leadership visit eldoradocf.org.
PRESERVE IT!
Red hot apple wedges
Acres of orchards and farms are currently at their peak for that ever-popular autumn fruit, the apple. With so many varieties grown in the Sierra foothills it’s quite easy to come home with several boxes; this has happened to many folks. As a guide, keep in mind the yield of apples by the pound.
Laurie Lewis UCCE Master Food Preserver of El Dorado County
1 pound of apples yields about 3 medium-sized apples, or 4 cups peeled, cored slices
2½ to 3 pounds of apples yields about 2 pints canned apples
13½ pounds of apples yields about 9 pints canned apples
21 pounds of apples yields about 7 quarts canned apples
48 pounds (1 bushel) of apples yields about 14-19 quarts of canned apples
A quintessential combination of flavors and smells that come out of a kitchen this time of year is apple with cinnamon. Of course there are fresh pies, turnovers, galettes and buckles to be made. But why not try canning jars of apple wedges spiced up with red hot candies?
This recipe hails from the new Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving, 38th Edition, 2024.
Apple Wedges in Cinnamon Red Hot Syrup
Yield about 6 pint jars
8 to 10 pounds apples (about 24 to 30 medium) *
Produce pretreatment (optional) **
1½ cups sugar ½ cup cinnamon red-hot candies
2 sticks cinnamon
2 teaspoons whole cloves
1 teaspoon ground ginger
2 cups water
1½ cups white vinegar, 5% acidity 2/3 cup light corn syrup
2 tablespoons red food coloring (optional)
1. Prepare boiling-water canner or atmospheric steam canner. Heat jars in canner until ready to use; do not boil. Wash lids in warm soapy water and set aside with bands.
2. Wash apples under cold running water, drain. Core and peel apples. Cut apples lengthwise into eighths. Treat apples with pretreatment to prevent darkening. Tie spices in a spice bag.
3. Combine all ingredients, except apples, in a large saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Boil 5 minutes.
4. Drain apple wedges. Add apple wedges to hot syrup. Cover pan and simmer 5 minutes. Remove spice bag and discard.
5. Pack hot apples wedges into a hot jar, leaving ½-inch headspace. Ladle hot syrup over apple wedges, leaving ½-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Clean jar rim. Center lid on jar and adjust band to fingertip-tight. Place jar in canner with simmering water (180 degrees F). Repeat until all jars are filled.
6. Water must cover jars by one inch in boiling water canner or come
to the base of the rack in a steam canner. Adjust heat to medium-high, cover canner, and bring water to a rolling boil in a boiling-water canner or until there’s a steady stream of steam coming from the steam canner. Start timing and process pint jars: 15 minutes at 0-1,000 feet elevation, 20 minutes at 1,001-3,000 feet, 25 minutes at 3,011-6,000 feet and 30 minutes at 6,001-8,000 feet.
7. Turn off heat. For boiling water canner, remove lid and let jars stand 5 minutes. For atmospheric steam canner, let canner sit undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes, then remove lid. Remove jars and cool 12-24 hours. Check seals (they should not flex when center is pressed). Label, date and store in a cool dark place.
* Generally, apples best for canning are ones that keep their shape. Popular varieties include (but are not limited to) Cortland, Jonathan or Jonagold, Braeburn and Granny Smith.
** Common pre-treatment antioxidants include citrus juice, citric acid or ascorbic acid. Follow manufacturer’s instructions.
The UC Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County are a great resource for answers to food safety and preserving questions. Leave a message at (530) 621-5506 or email edmfp@ucanr. edu. For more information about the program, events and recipes visit ucanr.edu/sites/mfp_of_cs/. Find the group on Facebook, too (UCCE Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County).
Family-friendly festival offers slice of Bavaria in Sierra Nevada
News release
Afall tradition in Lake Tahoe, Camp Richardson Resort’s Oktoberfest is back
Oct. 5-6. An ode to the Munich festival and a favorite for visitors and locals, the festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Lederhosen are optional but encouraged. Entrance and parking are free.
Well known for its family-friendly activities, beer and wine garden and Oktoberfestinspired menu options, this year’s choices will also include the Über Plate with four types of sausages, potato salad, braised red cabbage, sauerkraut and desserts by Frank Vilt’s Cakes. The Cameron Park baker was featured on season one of “Baketopia” on HBO Max. Festival goers are encouraged to take advantage of the free bike valet in front of the Mountain Sports Center. Free parking is available on paved sites in the resort’s Eagles Nest campground.
voucher toward food at the festival and two complimentary beverage refill vouchers. For more information visit camprichardsonresort. com. Camp Richardson’s lakeside restaurant The Grove will be serving an Oktoberfest special menu in addition to the regular menu Oct. 5-6, with live music 5-7 p.m. Diners can choose from pretzel bites with beer cheese and mustard, pork belly sliders on pretzel buns or a Munich inspired stew, along with some fall-inspired specialty cocktails.
Competitions during the two-day festival range from beer stein holding to yodeling and costume contests for dogs and their owners. All ages can participate in the yodeling and
costume matches. Pets only compete on Saturday. Winners receive gift certificates for food, activities and lodging at the resort.
The Gruber Family Band will play live polka music both days accompanied by dancers from Lake Tahoe Shining Stars.
Vendor row will include many handcrafted and made-in Tahoe choices. Souvenir steins and shirts will be available for purchase at the Camp Richardson Booth.
The resort is now running its fall Oktoberfest lodging specials. Enjoy 30% off
a three-night stay in any indoor accommodation from Oct. 2-8 and get two complimentary Oktoberfest steins with two fills and two Oktoberfest T-shirts. Or try the Prost Package for a buy one night get one free in any outdoor camping or RV spot, including a $30
There’s also one last chance to get an ice cream fix from Camp Richardson’s Ice Cream Parlor open through the Oktoberfest weekend 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For the latest updates, visitors can follow the resort’s new Facebook and Instagram pages at facebook.com/ camprichresort and instagram.com/ camprichresort.
‘American Pickers’ ready to pick through treasures in California
The American Pickers are excited to return to California. They plan to film episodes of The History Channel hit television series throughout the state in November 2024.
“American Pickers” is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on The History Channel. The hit show follows skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find historically significant or rare items, in addition to unforgettable Characters and their collections.
As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, the Pickers are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way, they want to meet characters with amazing stories and fun items. They hope to give historically significant objects a new lease on life while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way. The Pickers have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them. The American Pickers TV Show is looking for leads and would love to explore hidden treasures. If you or someone you know has a unique item, story to tell and is ready to sell ... they would love to hear from you. Please note, the Pickers do not pick stores, flea markets, malls, auction businesses, museums or anything open to the public. If interested, send your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to americanpickers@cineflix.com or call (646) 493-2184.
That’s a wrap for forum party
The 45th annual Amador-El Dorado Forest Forum Blanket Party at Blue Barn Provisions in Camino was a success with 34 people in attendance, all enjoying a delicious dinner and a lively auction. Thoughtful and handmade items brought topdollar bids. The forum’s total net gain for the scholarship fund was $2,050. Forum leaders thank the following people, some of whom couldn’t attend, who made cash contributions: Roger Berry, Joyce Everett, John and Anne Heissenbuttel, John and Cynthia Miles, Regine Miller, Ed Struffenegger and Rich Wade.
Robert Little bought The Blanket for $100 and, as is with forest forum tradition, will bring it back to be auctioned again next year. The Blanket Party raises money for the Edwin F., Lyla, and Lyle Smith Scholarship fund, which supports local students in their upper-division college forestry education.
Applications are due on Nov. 15. Visit forestforum. org/scholarship for more details. The Forest Forum would like to thank outgoing Scholarship Committee Chair Mary Lory and recognize the current committee of Kevin Conway (chair), Paul Stover and Rich Wade.
The forum’s monthly dinner meeting schedule resumes in October with speakers lined up through January. For more information visit forestforum. org.
Ukrainian quartet returns to The Center
Leila Srouji The Center for the Arts
RASS VALLEY
G— The Center for the Arts presents DakhaBrakha in the Marisa Funk Theater on Oct. 4. DakhaBrakha is a world-music quartet from Kyiv, Ukraine, reflecting fundamental elements of sound and soul. The name DakhaBrakha means “give/take” in the old Ukrainian language. DakhaBrakha was created in 2004 at the Kyiv Center of Contemporary Art “DAKH” by the avantgarde theater director Vladyslav Troitskyi. Theater work has left its mark on the band performances as their shows have never been staged without scenic effects. Having experimented with Ukrainian folk music, the band has added rhythms of the surrounding world into their music, thus creating a bright, unique
and unforgettable image of DakhaBrakha. Accompanied by Indian, Arabic, African, Russian and Australian traditional instrumentation, the quartet’s astonishingly powerful and uncompromising vocal range creates a trans-
national sound rooted in Ukrainian culture. At the crossroads of Ukrainian folklore and theater, their musical spectrum is intimate then riotous, plumbing the depths of contemporary roots and rhythms, inspiring cultural and artistic liberation.
Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at The Center for the Arts, 314 West Main St. in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts. org or call (530) 2748384.
Nonprofit organizations encouraged to apply for fundraising hunting tags
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife invites nonprofit organizations to help wildlife by auctioning big game hunting license tags for the 2025-26 hunt season.
Proceeds from the sale of these tags are returned to CDFW to fund projects that benefit bighorn sheep, deer, elk and pronghorn antelope. Last year’s auctions raised more than $840,000 for the conservation and management of big game species. Past projects funded by the sale of these and other hunting tags have included crucial habitat conservation, post-wildfire forest restoration, wildlife population studies and the installation of
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Twisted Metal will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Crocker Art Museum presents Raúl Gonzo’s Soundtracks and Shorts at 6:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit crockerart. org.
artificial watering devices to support wildlife during drought conditions.
Up to 17 tags will be reserved for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to sell or auction. Nonprofit organizations compete through an application process for a chance to auction these special tags, which can only be purchased by members of the public through these auctions. The application process is designed to ensure maximum proceeds are received from the tags to benefit wildlife.
A call for applications and the required application form are available at the CDFW website at wildlife.ca.gov/licensing/hunting/fundraising. Applications must be received by 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16.
Jazz - The Evolution of an American Art Form will perform at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
Oct. 5
Valhalla Tahoe presents 50 Years of South Tahoe Theatre starting at 5:15 p.m. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Oct. 4
The Rescue Community Center will hold its monthly Friday Night Out dinner from 5-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter.com.
The Vinyltones will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.
Jonathans Dead will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 512 invites the public to its famous pancake breakfast, 8-11 a.m. at the Placerville Airport, 3501 Airport Road. Enjoy airplanes on display, old cars, old friends and more. Proceeds go to the Sunny Atkin Scholarship Fund for students of aeronautical related studies.
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will hold Community Cleanup Day at Hills Church from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDH residents are free, non-residents will be charged $20 a load. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
The El Dorado County Fair and Event Center Swap Meet takes place 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., weather permitting, at 100 Placerville Drive in Placerville. The swap meet is open to the public with free admission. n See KNOW, page B5
Gem Faire dazzles at Scottish Rite Center this weekend
SACRAMENTO — Gem Faire, America’s Premier Jewelry & Bead Show, returns to Sacramento Oct. 4-6, at Scottish Rite Center. Explore the largest selection of fine jewelry, crystals, gemstones, beads, minerals, earth’s treasures and much more. Take advantage of buying directly from the importers and wholesalers. From loose gemstones, raw minerals and millions of bead strands, to finished jewelry, fashion accessories, jewelry supplies and tools, find them all under one roof. Jewelry repair, cleaning and ring sizing service are available while visitors shop. Enjoy displays and demonstrations by Sacramento Mineral Society all weekend long.
Scottish Rite Center is located at 6151 H St. in Sacramento. Show hours are noon to 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday (no admittance after 4 p.m. Sunday). Admission is $7, valid for the entire weekend. Parking is free. For more information visit gemfaire. com or contact Gem Faire Inc. at (503) 252-8300 or info@gemfaire.com.
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UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts Landscape Grasses, 9 a.m. to noon at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive in Placerville. Join Master Gardener Sue McDavid to learn about ornamental grasses and how to incorporate them into a landscape. Most grasses need very little care and, in fact, thrive on neglect, so they are perfect for even novice gardeners. You will learn which grasses grow best in our area, which ones tolerate shade or sun and how to care for them. Parking permits required; purchase a $2 permit at any kiosk. While we have plenty of space, seating is limited. Bring a portable chair if you wish. Visit mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/ Public_Education to register.
Marshall Divide Wellness Center hosts its annual Wellness Fair, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 6065 Highway 193 in Georgetown. The family-friendly event will feature health education, wellness checks and resources as well as kids’ activities and snacks and beverages. For more information call (530) 333-2548.
California State Parks hosts a public safety and job fair at Black Miners Bar on the shore of Lake Natoma at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. This is an opportunity to learn more about the role of State Park peace officers (rangers and lifeguards) and communication operators (dispatchers) within California’s 280 state parks and the hiring process to join the team. This family event features adventure sports booths, food trucks and free park entry until 4 p.m.
The Stage at Burke Junction presents the West Coast premiere of “Rogues” Oct. 5 through Nov. 3. All show dates will have 1 and 5 p.m. showtimes. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.
AMA Flat Track Motorcycle Races will be held at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds; grandstand opens at 3 p.m. and practice beings 30 minutes later. For more information, go to eldoradocountyfair.org.
The Jamokes will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.
Duo Quartet will perform at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Now
ASPIREKids is looking for volunteers to help with The Elf Project, a program that will bring Christmas to hundreds of local youth. For more information email hello@aspirekidseldorado.org.
Marshall Hospital Auxiliary is looking for volunteers. Help people and make new friends. For more information call Norma at (530) 6761844 or email grizzyq98@gmail.com.
Arts and Culture El Dorado, in collaboration with the El Dorado County Historical Museum and Placerville News Company, hosts Specters on
Glass: Studio Portraiture in Early 20th Century Placerville at the Switchboard Gallery through Oct. 6.
The Center has opened registration for the Adopt A Family program. This is an opportunity to step in and help provide joy, relief and lasting memories for local families in need. Registration runs through Oct. 15. For more information call (530) 626-1450.
The Olde Coloma Theatre presents “A Werewolf’s Tail, Or, Hilda’s Haunted Hilltop” through Oct. 27. Doors open Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. For tickets and more information, go to oldecolomatheatre.com.
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attending El Dorado County schools. These children, and others who are in families living too close to the federal poverty line, may go without items they need at the start of school,” explained Margaret Lewis, the McKinney-Vento services coordinator for El Dorado County Office of Education. “By providing access to these supplies for free through the Hands4Hope distribution event, their families can then redirect their resources toward other opportunities or needs.”
After the Hands4Hope School Supply Committee held three donation sorting days and one set-up day, they were ready to host the distribution event on Aug. 6 at Louisiana Schnell Elementary School in Placerville. At that event, 530 students in grades kindergarten through high school received backpacks and supplies, and their families also were exposed to additional community resources to assist with health, medical, educational and other support. An additional
Day Hiker
103 backpacks full of supplies were distributed in the days following the event through community partners and direct distribution, resulting in a total of 640 students served. Remaining supplies continue to be distributed through community partners, benefiting even more students.
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parking at the trailhead.
Your hike begins from the parking lot and up behind the café on Tunnel Creek Road. There is a $2 fee to hike the trails. An iron ranger with envelopes is up the trail a piece.
Once on Tunnel Creek Road it is all uphill. At the intersection you make the left with a steep uphill climb. You hike nearly 500 feet up on decomposed granite and sand. For this reason, I call this short hike moderate. The climb up is not so bad but coming down can be slippery. Wear sturdy shoes and if you are at all worried, take your trekking poles. There is a longer route that spreads out the hike over a greater distance but less steep. You can
All in all, the 15 youth School Supply Committee participants planned and coordinated a total of seven events that involved 118 volunteer spots filled by an additional 19 youth participants. All together, these volunteers, along with six adult and alumni volunteer leaders,
contributed 450 service hours toward the overall effort. Along the way, youth learned and practiced real-life skills such as collaboration, communication and leadership.
“My favorite part about leading the Hands4Hope School Supply Drive Committee was being able to see the committee’s hard work
find this alternative just a bit further up the main trail.
The steady climb is made easier by the everchanging views of beautiful blue Lake Tahoe, the towering pines and bright granite boulders. This is a popular trail. Once on top expect to wait your turn in the jumble of rocks that overlooks the lake and of course the co-star of the show, the gorilla shaped rock that sits taking in the view with you.
This in-and-out hike is maybe 3 miles total. You will not find signs declaring Monkey Rock. You must know what you are looking for. Other trails continue beyond Monkey Rock to Marlette Flume Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail and Twin Lakes.
pay off when the all the kids got excited to pick out the school supplies they wanted for the upcoming school year,” said Addison Hunt, committee chair, and an Oak Ridge High School senior.
More than two dozen businesses and organizations hosted Hands4Hope collection bins so donors had
convenient locations to drop off backpacks and supplies or they hosted their own in-house drives.
In addition to the many donations provided by community members, the drive was generously supported by Fergerson Financial and David and Sharon Handler, whose financial donations allowed Hands4Hope committee members to shop for remaining needed supplies for the distribution and to support a local elementary school with much needed supplies. About the nonprofit Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference is a nonprofit, youthdriven organization with the mission to inspire and empower youth in leadership and service. It offers hands-on education and community engagement opportunities to youth from kindergarten through 12th grades through school-based and after-school programs in Sacramento and El Dorado counties. For more details visit hands4hopeyouth.org or call (916) 294-7426.
The alternate route is up Interstate 80 to CA-267S in Truckee. Take NV-28E to Tahoe Boulevard to Tunnel Creek Boulevard in Incline Village. Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
Heartstoppers brings back multi-level western horror
News release
RANCHO CORDOVA — Ready for a really good scare? Not only are there excellent haunts at the Heartstoppers Haunted House in Rancho Cordova, it is the ideal venue for such an attraction given that that the Mineshaft property itself is rumored to be haunted.
There two major haunts within the main building, upstairs and in the creepy caves and basement, as well as two immense outdoor haunts in the former mini golf course and property adjacent to Folsom Boulevard to complete the experience with spooks in every corner. Get tickets online only at heartstoppershaunt.com.
Heartstoppers’ production team has been running professional quality haunted houses for 17 years. In 2016 and 2017 they joined forces with Callson Manor to create DireWorld in Roseville. Given the redevelopment @TheGrounds, the haunt needed to find a new home. Heartstoppers, now affiliated with a nonprofit called Theatre Education 4 Theater Nerds Inc., was welcomed back to Rancho Cordova with open arms in 2018 and was offered a home at the Mineshaft. Shared profits will support various community programs in Rancho Cordova.
“Our long-term plan is to not only run the Heartstoppers Haunted House in October but expand to open seasonally for workshops and eventually some other holidays for specialty themed events at The Mineshaft,” said Joel Watson, producer of Heartstoppers Haunt.
Tickets include all attractions, plus two Scarezones to hang out in and soak up the Halloween vibes. A waiting area indoors (so inclement weather won’t be a problem) where themed refreshments and souvenirs will be available to help guests prepare for the wind down from their Heartstoppers experience. It’s four attractions all centered around a single storyline:
• Deadlands — Old West meets The Walking Dead, outdoors under the moonlight
• The Ward: Project Crossbreed — The abandoned hospital on the hill, in the building, upstairs.
• BlightWoods — A possessed forest on the outskirts of Deadlands controlled by three witches, in the golf course
• Misery Mine — The now collapsed silver mine underneath the town of Deadlands. In the basement
• Redemption! Stage Show — An included stage show runs every hour that explains the story and history of Deadlands and the surrounding area.
• The Parkour and Performing Arts Center is bringing a one-of-a-kind experience, Cirque Vau De Villian to the ghost town at Heartstoppers. The
PPAC will be selling tickets to a thrilling 45-minute circus variety and freak show that will amaze and entertain the young and old. Included with the ticket, is the Spin-to-Win experience. Three spins of the wheel to win prizes, including the grand prize of a mystery trip or an overnight stay at a haunted motel in Nevada.
Vendors with unique horror-themed jewelry to one-of-a-kind artwork, gifts and tchotchkes are set up throughout the property each night. Food trucks
will also be on site for tasty treats and meals and specialty mocktails are available inside the haunt featuring non-alcoholic libations like Cyrus Cider or the Witches Brew.
Heartstoppers Haunted House is open for the public Fridays and Saturdays each weekend in October with additional dates around Halloween through Saturday, Nov. 2. Due to the reservation system, all tickets are sold online only. Parking gates will open at 7 p.m.
The Public Square
Public Notices
STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2 13677 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2024-0841 The following
Plant Sale @ 10am California native shrubs, perenni‐als, groundcovers, grasses and succulents will be offered for sale. All proceeds will support conser‐vation of native plants in Solano County. 1400 E 2nd St, 1400 East 2nd Street, Benicia. contact@jep son.cnps.org, 707-365-1854
Brenda Mallory: In the Absence of Instruction @ 12pm In the solo exhibition, Brenda Mal‐lory includes prints, multi-media and installation artworks to con‐sider the complex relationships and structures of power and iden‐tity. Gorman Museum of Native American Art, 181 Old Davis Road, Davis. cngorman@ucdavis.edu, 530-752-6567
West Coast Premier of Rogues @ 1pm / $25 West Coast Premier of "Rogues" A play by Char‐lotte Higgins, Directed by Lori Russo The Stage at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Suite E-1, Cameron Park. stageat burke@gmail.com
Galvanize: Redwood Ritual @ 4pm Lone Star Saloon, 1354 Harrison st, San Francisco
Tastes & Sounds of Ifest @ 6pm / $45 Join us for Tastes & Sounds of ifest, a globally inspired “tasting dinner” and concert in the I-House backyard to kick-off ifest@ihouse! International House, 10 College Park, Davis. shelly@ihouse davis.org, 530-723-2288
Matt Jaffe
@ 6:30pm Mare Island Brewing Co. (Ferry Taproom), 289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo
Radio Slave (Of�cial): Radio Slave @ Audio SF @ 9:30pm Audio SF, 316 11th St, San Fran‐cisco
DaBoii Performing Live in Sacramento, CA @ 10pm Redlight Lounge, 2326 J St, Sacra‐mento
testpilot @ 10pm SVN West, 10 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco
TVLI @ 10pm Le Petit Paris 75, 515 Broadway, San Francisco
The Bones of J.R. Jones: Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2024 @ 10am Golden Gate Park Bandshell, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Fran‐cisco
Bobby Rush: Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2024 @ 11am Golden Gate Park Polo Field, 1232 John F Kennedy Dr, San Francisco
Zack Fox @ 1pm Phoenix Hotel, 601 Eddy St, San Francisco
Spaceghost @ 1pm Phoenix Hotel, 601 Eddy St, San Francisco
Jon Muq: Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2024 @ 1:35pm San Francisco Recreation & Parks, 501 Stanyan St, San Francisco
Carsie Blanton: Hardly Strictly Bluegrass 2024 @ 1:50pm Outside Lands Music Festival, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
Ibibio Sound Machine @ 7pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco
Richard Sarvate Comedy Special Taping @ 8pm The Palace Theater, 644 Broadway, San Francisco
Austin de Lone @ 8pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco
Jimmie Vaughan & The TiltA-Whirl Band with special guest Mathias Lattin @ 7:30pm Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre, 1010 Ulatis Dr, Vacaville
10/07
Rotary Club of Davis Weekly Lunch & Program @ 12pm See website for details. ro‐taryclubofdavis.com Davis Com‐munity Church, 421 D Street, Davis. teainsworth@gmail.com
Children's Kung Fu Classes @ 3pm Tina Fit‐ness is now offering children's Kung Fu classes at the Davis Arts Center! Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. du ankejie68@gmail.com
Jobi Riccio @ 7pm (Address Disclosed After Pur‐chase), An Actual Living Room, San Francisco
Uncle Chris @ 7pm 4 Star Theater, 2200 Clement St, San Francisco French Police w/ Wisteria @ 7pm Rickshaw Stop, San Francisco
Willie Wonka @ 7pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento
GRIP
@ 7pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento
Shubh Saran // Nadodi
@ 7pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission St, San Francisco
Yo La Tengo - Dine for Democracy @ 8pm / $127.50
The Fillmore, San Francisco
Shubh Saran
@ 8pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco
Foxing
@ 8pm The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco
David Starlight*: Civic Center Soundtrack Concert Series @ 1pm Fulton Street Plaza, 147 Fulton St, San Francisco
XG @ 5pm Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 99 Grove Street, San Francisco
GamperDrums FunkJazzFeaturing Drewzingg and Paul Eastburn
@ 6pm Boom Boom Room, 1601 Fillmore St, San Francisco
Herb Alpert w/ Lani Hall
@ 7:30pm Harris Cen‐ter for the Arts, Fol‐
som Lani Hall @ 7:30pm Harris Center, 10 College Pkwy, Folsom
Karaoke Tuesday @ 8pm / Free Neck of the Woods, San Francisco
Bleary Eyed @ 8pm Cafe
Jon
&
Tegan and Sara @ 7pm Swedish American Hall, San Fran‐cisco
We Own the Laughs @ 7:30pm / $20.50-$28.50 Cobb's Comedy Club, San Fran‐cisco
Chanel Beads @ 8pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell Street, San Francisco
Mavi @ 8pm Harlow's, 2708 J St, Sacramento
Alex Ramon "Magic"
@ 8pm / $47.75 Harveys Cabaret at Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline
Mavi
@ 8pm Harlow's Night Club - Sacramento CA, Sacramento
Tai Chi Classes @ 10am New tai chi classes offered at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. duanke jie68@gmail.com
Brenda Mallory: In the Absence of Instruc‐tion @ 11am In the solo exhibition, Brenda Mallory includes prints, multi-media and in‐stallation artworks to con‐sider the complex relation‐ships and structures of power and identity. Gor‐man Museum of Native American Art, 181 Old Davis Road, Davis. cngor man@ucdavis.edu, 530752-6567
Coyote Island @ 7pm Harlow's, 2708 J St, Sacramento
GamperDrums: Ghost Town Messengers every 2nd Thursday at Royale @ 8:30pm The Royale, 800 Post St, San Fran‐cisco
Limbeck @ 9pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell St, San Francisco
10/11
Healing Arts 6-Session Workshop @ 10am / $35 Healing Arts at the Pence is open for registration! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia @gmail.com, 530-758-3370
Brenda Mallory: In the Absence of Instruction @ 11am In the solo exhibition, Brenda Mal‐lory includes prints, multi-media and installation artworks to con‐sider the complex relationships and structures of power and iden‐tity. Gorman Museum of Native American Art, 181 Old Davis Road, Davis. cngorman@ucdavis.edu, 530-752-6567
Muusic at Noon - Friday, October 11 Jeff Alfriend, Robin Houston, Clarinets, LuAnn Higgs, Piano @ 12pm Jeff Alfriend, Robin Houston, clar‐inets, and LuAnn Higgs, piano, will perform works of Beethoven, Mendelssohn, and Shostakovich Friday, October 11, at the Second Friday Muusic at Noon Free Con‐cert. 27074 Patwin Rd, 27074 Patwin Road, Davis. luannhiggs@ gmail.com, 916-600-8872
707 Spies Like Us: Buzz Awards @ 5:30pm / $125 Join us for the 707 Spies Like Us Buzz Awards on October 11, 2024, at the Hilton Garden Inn! This premier annual event, fea‐turing a fun spy theme, honoring outstanding community & business achievement Hilton Gar‐den Inn Fair�eld, 2200 Gateway Court, Fair�eld. lisa@fair�eldsuisuncham ber.com, 707-425-4625
2nd Friday ArtAbout at the Pence Gallery @ 6pm View all new exhibits at the Pence during our October reception! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@gmail.com, 530-758-3370
Holly Montgomery w/The Boneshakers! @ 7pm Torch Club, 904 15th St, Sacra‐mento
Ex-Heir, Yama Uba, Blood Handsome, Gall @ 8pm Knockout, 3223 Mission St, San Francisco
The Cosmo Alleycats @ 8pm Local Edition, 691 Market St, San Francisco
Present/ Giveaway/ Chlorine/ Chain @ 8pm / $12 Neck of the Woods, San Francisco
Cilo, Oble Reed @ 8:30pm / $15 Brick and Mortar Music Hall, San Francisco
Oblè Reed @ 8:30pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission St, San Francisco
Lost Marakas, Lost Object, BAYSTAR @ 8:30pm / $13 Brick and Mortar Music Hall, San Francisco
Brenda Mallory: In the Absence of Instruction @ 12pm In the solo exhibition, Brenda Mal‐lory includes prints, multi-media and installation artworks
Brett Dennen @ 8pm
Harlow's Night Club - Sacramento CA, Sacramento