Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, November 20, 2024 by mcnaughtonmedia

Tannenbaum time

■ Placerville’s Christmas tree stands tall downtown

Odin Rasco Senior sta writer

The city of Placerville has begun its preparations for the holiday season, with Main Street now aglow nightly with strings of lights criss-crossing overhead and a freshly-cut Christmas tree set in place next to the Bell Tower. City staff congregated on Main Street in the chilly morning hours Saturday, Nov. 16, to help install the tree that will adorn the center of the city for the holidays. Donated to the city by Sierra Pacific Industries and hauled from the forest to Main Street by a Doug Veerkamp General Engineering truck, the tree will be decorated with lights and ornaments in time for the city’s annual tree lighting event the day after Thanksgiving (Nov. 29 this year).

The city has recently updated the infrastructure to keep the tree posted next to the Bell Tower, adding a coverable hole meant to hold the tree trunk when the holiday season rolls around. The city had to pivot its holiday plans away from using the landmark redwood at the corner of Bedford Avenue and Main Street after the tree sustained notable damage during heavy storms in early 2023.

Touching tribute to John Hidahl

Eric Jaramishian

Senior sta writer

It was a morning of grieving and remembrance at the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors’ chambers on Friday as family members, county employees and numerous peers packed the room to pay their respects to John Hidahl.

Hidahl, who suddenly died in his home on Nov. 2, was wrapping up his term as the District 1 county supervisor and threw his hat in the recent election to obtain a seat on the EDH Fire Board once again.

Now his supervisor seat, covered with memorabilia including his jacket famed for numerous pins, is empty, reminding the community of what it lost and what he left behind.

“We never could have anticipated losing a strong, vibrant pillar of our family so tragically and suddenly; we knew John as a beloved and devoted husband, father, grandfather, son and brother, but we continue to learn more about the impact he’s had in your lives through all of your kind stories, and we thank you greatly

Jaramishian

store on Silva Valley Parkway in El Dorado Hills, with notable changes to the project known as EDH 52.

This past summer Costco purchased the property for more than $8 million, nearly ﬁve years after a proposal to build the warehouse store was included in a master plan that also included retail and

MAIL LABEL

Mountain Democrat photos by Eric Jaramishian

El Dorado Hills Fire Department Chief Maurice Johnson and El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf speak words of praise about John Hidahl, a respected colleague.

John Hidahl’s family, including daughter Kathryn Hidahl, wife Eileen Hidahl, daughter Maureen Lawrence, daughter Brittani Dahlson and daughter Christine Anderson, from left, express their gratitude to the community for their outpouring support and condolences after their loss. Rachel Pierotti, daughter, was virtually present via Zoom.

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

The tall tree will sit on Main Street through the holiday season, according to city officials.

ESSENTIALS

John Walter Hidahl

Oct 10, 1951 – Nov 2, 2024

John Hidahl was born on October 10th, 1951, in Ceres, California, to Joel and Margaret Hidahl. He grew up in Ceres alongside his six siblings, working on the family ranch growing peaches and cherries and driving for the family trucking business. John earned his Eagle Scout rank by age 16. He met his future wife, Eileen, in religious education classes and they started dating their senior year at Ceres High School. John went on to study Mechanical Engineering at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo where he earned his Bachelors of Science. John and Eileen married in 1972 and moved to the Sacramento area, where John built a successful career in the Aerospace Industry, working for 31 years at Aerojet and 10 years at Northrop Grumman. John’s true calling and passion, however, was public service. He used his extensive knowledge, clear vision, and personal connections to improve the community in his 46 years as an El Dorado Hills resident. His motto of “Service before Self” guided his involvement in numerous boards and committees, helping veterans, seniors, and youth. A member of St. John’s parish for 50 years, he sang in the choir, served as a lector, and was a life member of the Knights of Columbus. He served the last eight years as the El Dorado County District 1 Supervisor, working to enhance the area’s quality of life. John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a man of deep, abiding faith. After suffering a heart attack, John was called home to the Lord on November 2nd, 2024. He is survived by Eileen, his wife of 52 years, their five daughters- Kathryn, Maureen & Ben, Christine & Josh, Rachel & Jon, Brittani & Marissa, and twelve grandchildren- Jacob, Samuel, Tyler, Evelyn, Rebecca, Ryan, Claire, Luca, Matteo, Theo, Walker and Waverly. He is also survived by siblings Claudia, Marty, Mike, and Rita, and preceded in death by his parents Joel and Margaret, and brothers Rob and Joel. Services will be held on Monday, November 25th at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 307 Montrose Drive, Folsom, CA 95630. All are welcome to attend: 10:00 AM Rosary, 10:30 AM Memorial Mass, and 11:30 AM Celebration of Life in St. John’s Gallagher Hall. In honor of John, the family gratefully welcomes contributions to the John Hidahl Memorial Fund, established by the El Dorado County Veterans Alliance to continue John’s legacy of supporting local veterans and their families. While John was not a veteran himself, he was a true patriot and a steadfast advocate for those who serve our country. https://eldoradocountyveterans.org/john-hidahlmemorial-fund/

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Melba Ambro

Dec. 10, 1927 – Oct. 31, 2024

Melba grew up in Alhambra, CA. She married Sam Ambroff and moved to the San Fernando Valley to raise their family. Upon Sam’s retirement, they moved to Placerville. Melba is survived by 4 children, Rita (Bob) Phelps, Craig (Debi) Ambroff, Terry (Ellen) Ambroff and Jaynee Bradshaw. She is also survived by 5 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Melba was a member of Newcomers Club, Shakespeare Club and Quilting groups. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Mary Nell Bryant

Aug. 14, 1950 – Oct. 29, 2024

Digiorno out as county’s IT director

Eric Jaramishian Senior sta writer

Mary Nell Bryant, 74, Placerville, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2024, after a courageous battle with pancreatic disease. Born on August 14, 1950, in Georgia, to Edward Louis and Alice T. Bryant. Mary was known for her magnetic personality, her southern accent, and her special gift for turning strangers into friends. She is survived by her life partner, Ron Wermes (Placerville), and her siblings, Emmett Bridger, Darlene Gregory, and Edna Pennone, who reside in Georgia. May she rest in peace.

Rosemarie Bejcek

Sept. 11, 1932 – Nov. 2, 2024

Beloved mother and friend, Rosemarie Bejcek, 92, of Susanville passed away peacefully November 2, 2024. The wife of 47 years to the late Ronald C. Bejcek. She is survived by her 5 children, Naomi, Holly, Renee, Steve & Wade, 9 Grandchildren and 8 Great Grandchildren. Memorial: Thursday December 5, 11am at 140 S. Lassen St., Susanville Monticola Club

Mary Elaine Adams

Dec. 16, 1934 – Nov. 5, 2024

Mary Elaine Adams, 89, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024 in Ogden, UT. Born 12/16/34 in Rochester, NY to Peter & Evelyn Schwartz. During her teen years she lived with her “Grandpa & Grandma” Pritchard in Canandaigua, NY. It was here she found her love of animals, gardening & farming. She participated in 4-H & later in Grange. She graduated from Canandaigua Academy in 1953. She married John W. Phillips on January 30, 1954. Together they had 3 children. They later divorced in 1975. From 1982-83, she served a Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints in Pennsylvania & Washington D.C. Then Mary met the love of her life, W. Noland Adams & they were married May 4, 1984. She loved her children, grandchildren & greatgrandchildren fiercely! Known for her great love of family, patriotism & love of country, sense of humor, concern for everyone’s welfare, missionary efforts & her pets. Mary is survived by her children Elaine Knecht, John Phillips Jr. (Debbie) & Lorraine Gastaldi Hill (Scott); 13 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; halfsister Carol Kociela & half-brother Richard Schwartz (Lucy); nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Noland Adams, her parents & her brother Donald B. Schwartz. Graveside Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday November 22, 2024 at Green Valley Cemetery, 3004 Alexandrite Drive, Rescue, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to PAWS (Performing Animal Welfare Society) @pawsweb.org, or the Missionary Fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints @ donate.churchofjesuschrist.org.

El Dorado County will look for another Information Technology director after dismissing Tonya Digiorno from her post Friday afternoon. County o cials gave no reason for Digiorno’s release as it’s policy not to comment on personnel matters, according to spokeswoman Carla Hass.

The county Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to dismiss Digiorno, who was hired in December 2019, in closed session during a special meeting Nov. 15.

Human Resources will start a recruitment campaign for a new IT director soon.

“That recruitment process will likely take a couple of months to su ciently advertise the opportunity and adequately vet candidates, given the critical nature of the position,” Hass told the Mountain Democrat, adding that an executive sta member within IT will handle day-to-day operations in the meantime.

The following information was taken from Placerville police reports:

Nov. 3

1:58 a.m. O cers made an arrest after responding to a verbal disturbance on Drake Court.

Nov. 4

5:15 p.m. Trespassing reported at a motel on Broadway.

5:41 p.m. Battery reported at a gas station on Main Street.

8:54 p.m. Battery reported on Marshall Way.

Nov. 5

2:53 p.m. Petty theft reported on Marshall Way.

5:59 p.m. Petty theft reported on Airport Road.

Nov. 6

8:34 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 31-year-old man suspected of probation violations on Broadway. He was listed in custody in lie of $20,000 bail.

11:48 a.m. Trespassing reported at a fast food restaurant on Broadway.

12:53 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of obstruction, possession of a controlled substance and illegal paraphernalia, battery on a peace o cer, trespassing and probation violations on Broadway. He was listed in custody in lieu of $23,500 bail.

Nov. 7

9:21 a.m. Vandalism reported on Manor Drive.

4:38 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 52-year-old man suspected of trespassing, possession of burglary tools and a controlled substance and other charges on Green Valley Road. He was listed in custody in lieu of $202,000 bail.

Nov. 8

10:43 a.m. Petty theft reported at a store on Placerville Drive.

11:07 a.m. Trespassing reported on Broadway.

11:38 a.m. Trespassing reported on Clark Street.

1:26 p.m. Trespassing reported at a shopping center on Placerville Drive.

4:45 p.m. Petty

2:18 p.m. Robbery reported at a store on Placerville Drive.

2:42 p.m. Trespassing reported on Martin Lane.

Paying one lump sum for the subscription not in your budget?

3:22 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 40-year-old man suspected of grand theft on Placerville Drive. He was listed in custody.

8:13 p.m. Trespassing reported at a store on Placerville Drive.

Nov. 9

9:27 a.m. Battery reported on Village Lane.

9:16 p.m. Trespassing reported at a fast food restaurant on Forni Road. Nov. 10 1:08

Aquatic invasive species program confronts new threats

Jeﬀ Cowen Tahoe Regional Planning Agency

LAKE TAHOE — As the Lake Tahoe boating and paddling season wraps up, agencies leading the Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Program are tallying up the 2024 watercraft inspection season and taking stock of the growing threat of AIS in the Tahoe Region.

The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency and the Tahoe Resource Conservation District, which manage the watercraft inspection program, recently reported that staff inspected more than 5,600 vessels since January and intercepted 59 vessels with AIS on board. Though this is an increase from the 46 vessels found with AIS in 2023, it is nowhere near the record of 129 vessels in 2021. Boaters, paddlers, anglers, and beachgoers all help lower the risk of AIS by following the Clean, Drain, and Dry protocol.

Since the program’s inception in 2008, trained watercraft inspectors have cleared 118,000 boats to launch, safeguarding native species and habitat, as well as Lake Tahoe’s famous clarity.

Among the vessels intercepted with AIS this year, 17 were found with quagga or zebra mussels, a devastating species that has never been detected in Lake Tahoe. Inspectors are kept informed of regional high-risk waterbodies and trained to screen for all non-native species, including invasive golden mussels that were detected in the Bay-Delta near Stockton in October of this year. “We are fortunate to have a comprehensive inspection program at Tahoe, but it takes everyone working together to protect our waters from the damage that invasive species can inflict,” said Dennis Zabaglo, AIS program manager at TRPA. “With the recent discovery of New Zealand mudsnails in Lake Tahoe and golden mussels in the BayDelta, we must stay vigilant and ensure existing protocols will continue to prevent the spread of any mussel into the Lake Tahoe Region.”

If vessels are not Clean, Drain, Dry or if a boat has a ballast system like a ski or wake boat, it will undergo a decontamination process. This year, boaters continued to do their part, as 59 percent of motorized vessels arrived Clean, Drain, and Dry.

How things changed: New Zealand mudsnails

The discovery of invasive New Zealand mudsnails on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe in 2023 prompted TRPA and Tahoe RCD to enact an awardwinning rapid response plan to contain the new invasives and keep them from spreading to other lakes and other areas of Lake Tahoe. In addition to Clean, Drain, and Dry, the AIS program

emphasized the mantra “Spill Where You Fill” to prevent the movement of New Zealand mudsnails around Lake Tahoe via ballast water or fish wells. New procedures at boat ramps require boaters to drain water, remove vegetation, and examine anchors and line upon exit from Lake Tahoe.

Expanding reach to the beach

This summer, the Watercraft Inspection Program piloted the “Roving Inspector Program” to expand outreach beyond inspection stations to Lake Tahoe beaches and Fallen Leaf and Echo Lakes. Thanks to funding by the Tahoe Fund, roving inspectors interacted with more than 5,200 non-

motorized recreators, from families with inflatables to kite surfers, and inspected 100 vessels to emphasize the importance of following Clean, Drain, and Dry protocols.

Chris Killian, AIS Program Manager at Tahoe RCD extolled the progress and potential of the rover program. “We are always looking for ways to reach more recreators, and the rovers were vital in providing information for this growing population,” Killian said. Non-motorized recreators can also become certified as Tahoe Keepers to Clean, Drain, and Dry their own gear. Since the detection of New Zealand mudsnails, over 500 new individuals have registered as Tahoe

Keepers. Additionally, innovative waterless cleaning stations called CD3 machines were positioned at popular beaches and available for free use.

One CD3 machine at Meeks Bay was funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the League to Save Lake Tahoe funded a mobile CD3 machine.

The two solar-powered machines logged over 900 uses this summer and will return to beaches next spring.

For more information on how to protect Lake Tahoe from aquatic invasive species, visit tahoeboatinspections. com.

2024 by the Numbers

• 5,600 motorized vessels inspected

• 59 vessels intercepted with AIS on board

• 17 intercepts with Quagga or zebra mussels

• ~60% of boats arrived Cleaned, Drained and Dry

• 5,200 rover interactions with electric and non-motorized recreators

• 500 new Tahoe Keepers

• 900 uses of free CD3 machine

Since 2008:

• 118,000 watercraft inspected

• 7,500 Tahoe Keepers certi ed

presenting this column is to exhibit the virtues of professional care in achieving and maintaining a healthy, vibrant smile. Through a combination of communication and compassionate concern and proven techniques and innovative technology, we attempt to move our patients toward an optimum state of oral health. P.S. Your bite may be different

Courtesy photo

Boaters, paddlers, anglers

into Lake Tahoe by following the Clean, Drain, and Dry protocol.

Union Mine golfers finish undefeated ...

Special to Mountain Democrat

scholarship.

Congratulations to the Union Mine

High School girls golf team, which celebrated an undefeated Sierra Valley Conference season and has now gone four years in a row without losing a match. In the final 2024 match in late October, the golfers scored the lowest score of their season.

“This season was definitely a team effort with all 11 girls on the team playing in league matches,” shared coach Chad McGowan.

The coach recognized some of the individual accomplishments as follows:

Lily McGowan has been such an instrumental member of the golf program over the last four years. Her leadership and drive has helped elevated her team to four straight league titles and deep playoff runs.

Lily is the first golfer in league history to win SVC League MVP four years in a row. She also is the first golfer to have a scoring average under par for the season. She will be attending Cal State Northridge next year on a golf

Arden Abreo is a senior who didn’t start golfing until her freshman year and has shown everyone on the team what you can accomplish with hard work in a short period of time. Arden is now one of the top golfers in the league, earning All-League honors each of the past three seasons.

Devyn Kahle is the third senior on the team and joined the team just this year after taking up golf in the summer. She has been a huge addition to the team playing in every league match and finishing top 12 in the league. In addition to her scores, Devyn has been a great leader for the other girls on the team.

Emily Haley is one of two juniors and has by far shown the most improvement over the last year. Her commitment to come to practice each day and get better is evident in her scores and accomplishments. Emily finished 12th in the league this season and will be one of top golfers in the league next season. Another

Trojans race to the podium

Oak Ridge High School cross country teams laced up for sections on the challenging Willow Hills course behind Folsom High School on Nov. 16.

The varsity girls placed first with 37 points to earn their fifth consecutive section championship. The varsity boys placed second with 76 points.

Thomas Capelli (12th, 16:42.2), Oscar Carrillo (20th, 16:55.6) and Roman Zamora (23rd, 17:02.0). Also racing well for the varsity boys were Dax Whann (41st, 17:35.4) and Donnie Taylor (45th, 17:49.6). All varsity boys obtained personal record on the course.

“The section meet was an incredible meet for the Oak Ridge cross country athletes as many of the athletes obtained personal records and the teams put in fabulous team efforts,” shared coach Rob Fairley. “The varsity girls and varsity boys are looking forward to competing at the state meet in Fresno at Woodward Park.”

The top five scorers for the varsity girls were Addie Clinton (1st, 18:40.4), Adriana Ingargiola (5th, 19:05.8), Emi Madsen (6th, 19:21.5, personal record on course), Giuliana Martino (11th, 19:48.6) and Nola Boucher (16th, 20:26.8, personal record on course). Also racing well for the varsity girls’ team was Lauren Tiedeman (20th, 20:49.4, personal record on course) and Sutton Paulsen (25th, 21:11.4, personal record on course). Clinton, Ingargiola and Madsen earned medals for their top 10 performance and were invited on the stage to receive their medal at the awards ceremony.

Junior Wesley Ewing raced extremely well for the varsity boys. He placed 10th with a time of 16:37.3 to get on the stage at the awards ceremony and receive a medal. The other scorers on the varsity boys’ team who raced very well were Bailey Van Leemput (11th, 16:40.8),

The varsity girls have the first race of the meet at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, and the varsity boys have the third race of the meet at 9:30 a.m.

The sophomore boys placed third with 69 points. The freshmen boys placed fifth with 87 points. Oak Ridge had three section champions: Clinton in varsity girls D1 race, 18:40.4, personal record on 5000 meter course, third varsity Oak Ridge cross country athlete to be a varsity section champion; Jillian Mao in JV girls’ race, 20:52.2 for 5000 meters, personal record on course; Loti Boucher in Frosh/Soph girls D1/2 race, 13:30.7 for 3400 meters, personal record on course.

The UMHS girls golf team has won every match played in the last four seasons.

Special to Mountain Democrat

Photo by Eric Boucher

ORHS varsity girls cross country teammates celebrate their fifth consecutive Sac-Joaquin Section championship.

n See GOLF, page A9

Continued from A1

for sharing them with us,” said Maureen Lawrence, one of John’s five daughters.

John’s family thanked the public for their outpouring support and love during this difficult time.

“He had such respect and pride in working together with all of you to make this county a better county; and so you are all a part of that and you know it,” said Eileen Hidahl, John’s wife.

The special meeting, dedicated to the lost public servant and leader, opened with the presenting of colors by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard and an invocation by Deacon Dan Haverty of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Following a powerpoint presentation highlighting Hidhal’s service to the county through many pictures was a reading of a proclamation, honoring John’s life as a tireless community servant and leader.

“Whereas, in the words of his county family, he was a supervisor and man who embodied the phrase ‘service before self,’ and whose mark was indelibly made,” the proclamation reads in part. “His presence and joyous laugh will be deeply missed in El Dorado County and beyond.”

The full proclamation, approved unanimously by the fellow board members, can be read online on the county legistar’s website, in the Nov. 15 meeting minutes.

Flag boxes were presented to Hidahl’s family — a flag that flew over the county government center in honor of John, one from the office of Congressman Tom McClintock and one Sheriff Jeff Leikauf and EDH Fire Chief Maurice Johnson made.

“John’s leadership was marked by his deep commitment to making El Dorado County a safer and better place for all of us, whether it was through his attentive ear, his vision or his tireless work, John touched countless lives and set an example of selflessness and resolve,” Leikauf shared.

Johnson, a frequent collaborator with Hidahl, said he will miss John, his longtime friend.

“To know John, Eileen and the whole Hidhal family was to love them. When I think of John, I think of selflessness, I think of servant leader and I think of the person you want to be,” Johnson said.

Many community members, county department heads, local politicians and peers of Hidhal praised Hidhal’s character and noted of his love for the county, his never-ending desire to serve and make his community a better place and his joyous spirit. EDH Fire Board Director Tim White, said Hidahl encouraged him to get involved in community service, including the fire board, on which John himself previously served for 33 years. Hidahl posthumously won

a seat on the board. The position will be filled via special election at a later date.

“I was so looking forward to working with John on the EDH Fire Board of Directors. The fire service was something that was very important to John .... He inspired me to do something good for the county, and I think he did that for a lot of people,” White said.

Others took note on his advocacy for veterans and underserved populations as well as his love for barbecuing.

Wrapping up the meeting of remembrance were the supervisors themselves; District 4 Lori Parlin said she knew Hidahl a long time before either decided to run for seats.

“We were really happy when we both ended up on the board together,” Parlin said. “Like many of us, we also had our differences, but always we would come back together for the good of the county and our communities and I will greatly miss him.”

District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine mentioned how difficult it was to tell if Hidahl was having a bad day or not, making note of his infectious positive attitude.

“He was always happy and had a step in his game even when difficult decisions politically were made; he moved right on to the next thing,” Laine shared. “What a role model he was to us and hopefully we will be better for having served with him.”

Board Chair Wendy Thomas read off John 15:13, a Bible verse used to describe those willing to die to serve others to further describe Hidahl’s commitment to service.

“Through all of this, Supervisor Hidahl demonstrated that love is a verb, love is an action and the love of our community was demonstrated through that action,” Thomas said. “He will be greatly missed; he has left an indelible legacy and mark on this county .... It has been an an extreme privilege to serve with him.”

District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo described him as great colleague and friend, often discussing county-related issues with Hidahl due to their districts being in close proximity.

“He enjoyed working in public service, interacting with people and to hear their stories and solving their problem, but he also had a great sense of humor and I remember many times we would laugh and joke,” Turnboo said.

Hidahl’s jacket will be left on his supervisor seat until his successor Greg Ferrero takes office in January.

A celebration of life for John Hidahl, including mass and reception, will be held at St. John the Baptist Church at 307 Montrose Drive in Folsom on Nov. 25. A Rosary will be held at 10 a.m. followed by mass at 10:30 a.m. and a reception at 11 a.m. For more details visit johnhidahlmemorial. rsvpify.com.

Hidahl

Mountain Democrat photo by Eric Jaramishian

Eileen Hidahl, widow of Supervisor John Hidahl, embraces Board Chair Wendy Thomas during a special board meeting held to honor the deceased supervisor Nov. 15.

Cindy Munt, John Hidahl’s District 1 assistant, shares stories about the supervisor as a boss and friend.

OPINION

California Matters

2026 campaign for California governor looms

California has a lengthy — very lengthy — list of critical economic, social and policy issues that are very likely to remain unresolved when Gavin Newsom vacates the governorship 26 months hence.

The nation’s highest levels of poverty and homelessness, shortages and rising costs of housing, exploding energy bills, an uncertain water supply, street crime, chronic educational shortcomings, a bullet train project that seems to be going nowhere, and multibillion-dollar budget deﬁcits are merely the most obvious ﬂashpoints.

Most were evident when Newsom was elected governor in 2018, promising vigorous e orts to neutralize them, such as his ridiculous pledge to build 3.5 million units of housing, but most have become even more intractable during his reign.

Given that unfortunate history, why would any sane person volunteer to step into Newsom’s shoes?

The fact that quite a few Californians are weighing 2026 bids for the governorship testiﬁes to the essentially irrational nature of political ambition.

The next political cycle begins with no clear frontrunners, which is a bit unusual. Rather, we have at least a dozen potential candidates, none of whom can claim more than fractional support, plus one huge unknown factor: Vice President Kamala Harris’s career plans after losing her presidential bid.

While nearly half of voters surveyed said they would consider supporting Harris for the governorship, it could be as polarizing as her White House campaign.

A new poll by UC Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies conﬁrms the lack of a frontrunner and, just for fun, tests the possibility of a Harris comeback run for governor, ala Richard Nixon’s vain attempt to become governor in 1962. While nearly half of voters surveyed said they would consider supporting Harris for the governorship, it could be as polarizing as her White House campaign.

“Considerations of Harris as a potential gubernatorial candidate are highly partisan,” the poll found, “with 72% of Democrats saying they would be very or somewhat likely to consider supporting her, while 87% of Republicans would not. Among voters not a liated with either major party, 24% would be very likely and 13% somewhat likely to support a Harris 2026 bid for governor.”

Discounting a Harris candidacy, the poll found that another newly defeated Democrat, U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, sits atop the ﬁeld, with 13% of voters ranking her as their ﬁrst or second choice, followed closely by Chad Bianco, the Republican sheri of Riverside County, at 12%.

Porter gave up her Orange County congressional seat this year to run for the U.S. Senate, but lost in the primary to another member of Congress, Adam Schi , who claimed a Senate seat last week.

Among Democratic voters, Porter scores 22%

■ See WALTERS, page A7

Letters to the Editor

In memory of John Hidahl

EDITOR:

John Hidahl was a very special person. I have met very few men that I gained such respect for in such a short period of time. John was by far the worst politician I ever met. He was too honest, too caring, and had great integrity. He will be missed by many.

DENNIS BYRNE El Dorado Hills

Letter to Supervisor Wendy Thomas

EDITOR:

First, thank you for blessing each meal that I eat through your thoughtful remembrance that sits on my table.

Second, when I read the memorial note about sheri ’s deputy Ramsey succumbing to PTSD, I wanted to address the issue. But I could not ﬁnd the words. I too live with PTSD. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is real. It can be a daily struggle and an all-consuming battle.

To my surprise and utter amazement during that same time period, you posted on your o cial social media page news of a fundraiser that you had attended to raise funds for a “support a cop”

program in El Dorado County.

Thank you, Supervisor Thomas. In that one night’s fundraiser, you, and all who attended, were able to do more to address a serious and ongoing issue, more e ectively than any of my words ever could.

We ask so very much from our local law enforcement and all first responders. Yes, our law enforcement and first responders are truly heroic. But even Superman had his kryptonite. Our local law enforcement and first responders are modernday heroes. And they are also human.

Each and every human being, no matter how strong, tough, brave, multi-talented and gifted, is deserving of support from the community. A simple gesture, a kind word, a sympathetic ear, can be life-changing.

Thank you, Supervisor Thomas, for your service to others. Thank you for addressing the need for all communities to be as supportive as possible to the everyday heroes who live and work among us. And thank you for continuing to make a positive di erence in El Dorado County each and every day. May you be blessed one hundredfold!

FRANCISCO U. RODRIGUEZ

Guest Column

California’s climate rules leave working class behind

he next time

TGov. Gavin Newsom puts on his detective hat and tries to get to the bottom of the “price gouging” that is supposedly driving absurdly high gas prices in California, he should start with the most obvious culprit in the state: himself. Earlier this month, Newsom’s California Air Resources Board voted to approve changes to the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard, potentially adding 65 cents a gallon to the already punitive cost of gasoline. Although consumers may be recoiling at the thought of even higher prices, political leaders must be relishing the opportunity to make it more di cult to own and operate an internal combustion

vehicle.

It’s obvious that California Democrats and their national counterparts are pushing the state and nation into a rapid electric vehicle future that is having dreadful consequences for families and workers.

Of course, this leftist project is under the guise of “doing something” about climate change, regardless of practicality or without any costbeneﬁt analysis. Newsom, for example, issued an executive order mandating that by 2035 all vehicles sold in California are zero-emission, a standard met only by plug-in electric vehicles. Although nobody, including the governor, can say with any precision how an all-

Just for once, I’d love to see a more balanced approach from our politicians that acknowledges California environmental policy is creating the nation’s worst poverty.

electric vehicle ﬂeet would change global climate, if at all, it’s easy to see how current EV policies are harming consumers today.

EV subsidies are forcing lower- and working-class fuel consumers to pay for wealthy folks’ expensive electric vehicles. “Greening” the electricity supply in California has been a major driver of skyrocketing electricity rates. After all, what good would it be to run electric vehicles on coal power? This has pushed up rates nearly fourtimes faster than the national average over the past decade. Paciﬁc Gas & Electric’s residential electricity rates are double the national average.

As reported in The Wall Street Journal, “California households owed

$2.1 billion in unpaid utility bills at the end of 2023, more than four times the amount in 2019.” While climate e ects may be tough to predict, policymakers should have seen this outcome from a mile away.

That’s not even counting economic pain caused by the never-ending attacks on the petroleum industry here, which cost jobs and add around $1.50 in government costs to a gallon of gas, before the LCFS bump earlier this month. Soon, Californians could be paying more in taxes and fees for every gallon of gas than some states pay for an entire gallon. Elitist progressives put

Placerville

TED GAINES

DAN WALTERS

Walters Continued from A6

support, more than twice what her most likely Democratic rivals garner. Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, the state’s former attorney general, all are in the 10-11% range.

Among Republican voters in the survey, Bianco

Continued from A6

unpredictable and microscopic changes in potential future weather ahead of blue-collar jobs and affordability today. It’s no wonder the Republican party is making huge inroads among working-class voters.

These policy-induced high energy costs are one of the reasons why, when adjusted for cost of living, California has the highest poverty rate in the nation. Between California’s highest-in-the-nation gas taxes and stealthy taxes such as the LCFS, California is banking profits from oil that would make John D. Rockefeller blush. Poorer Californians, who already spend more of their incomes on basics such as transportation, are paying the price.

California is also about to ban diesel RV sales in the state in a few weeks, choking off another practical, affordable living and travel option for our

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

and state Sen. Brian Dahle are virtually tied at about a third each.

The chances for any Republican to become governor are almost nil, given the overwhelming Democratic voter majority, but the state’s top-two primary system makes Republican candidates more relevant against a large field of Democrats.

citizens. It never ends. Just for once, I’d love to see a more balanced approach from our politicians that acknowledges California environmental policy is creating the nation’s worst poverty. If that is a price the dominant political class is willing to inflict on our citizens, so be it. It would be nice to at least hear it.

But I stand with the working-class families who are struggling to get by and the many companies who are trying to survive in this hostile state. I support American sovereignty and American jobs. The government gas price gouging and reckless push toward electric vehicles must stop.

Sen. Ted Gaines (ret.) was elected to represent the Board of Equalization’s 1st District for nearly 10 million constituents in 34 counties of northern, eastern and southern California. For more information visit boe.ca.gov/Gaines.

Edited by Joel Fagliano No.

That tactical element was very apparent earlier this year when Porter faced Schiff and a third Democrat, Rep. Barbara Lee. Schiff spent heavily to help Republican Steve Garvey finish in second place in the primary, ensuring a November win.

Counting Porter, there are five reasonably viable Democrats who might run — not only Kounalakis, Villaraigosa and Becerra but Attorney General Rob Bonta. A five-way split of Democratic voters would make it easier for a Republican to finish second in the primary, as Garvey did, and indirectly help the leading Democrat to become governor.

Let the games begin.

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

Focusing on facts

EDITOR:

Ihave rarely read a more disjointed rambling letter in my life than Scott Taylor’s latest missive. Somehow he thinks we were better off with a dementia-addled president who barely knew where he was, gave us massive inflation, high energy prices, the Afghan debacle and on and on.

Most of Scott’s rambling letter was just personal attacks and saying the dictatorial things that Trump was going to do, forgetting the fact that he didn’t do them during his previous four years. Somehow getting elected, winning both the Electoral College and the popular vote, is a threat to democracy? We’ll leave that bit of lunacy and move on.

As to NATO, what Trump is doing is bullying the members into paying their share. It amazes me how people can complain of our debt and want us to pay everyone else’s share at the same time. All he wants is for them to pay what they agreed to.

Mr. Taylor says that Trump hurt people of color. More voted for him than ever because he wants to help them. The billions spent on illegals could have done a lot for our minorities.

And as to LGBTQ, what Trump cares about is merit not sexuality. His previous director of National Intelligence was Rick Grenell, an openly gay man. Now here’s the difference between hiring based on merit as opposed to identity politics. Trump hired Grenell because he was the best man for the job who happened to be gay. Biden hired Buttigieg as secretary of Transportation because he was gay. By the way, it took old Pot Hole Pete a year to find that train wreck in Ohio.

And best of all, the FBI lies to the FISA court to get the intelligence apparatus of the federal government to spy on the Trump campaign, and conceals the fact that they knew the Hunter laptop was genuine until after the election to help Biden win. Trump’s the threat to democracy? Spare me!

GEORGE ALGER

Placerville

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

Thursday, November 21, 2024

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.

Gaines

Robin Hood The Musical! @ 2pm / $17.85-$23.18

Get ready to be transported to Sherwood Forest with "Robin Hood The Musical" presented by the Winters Theatre Company! Winters Opera House, 13 Main Street, Winters. winterstheatre@ gmail.com, 530-795-4014

San Francisco Symphony

Golden

Field, 1199 East Beach, San Francisco. trail@spartan.com

Davis Turkey Trot @ 7am / $50 We offer multiple events and distances, with something for every age group and ability. Civic Center Park, Davis. cck endall492@gmail.com

Yoga at The HIVE with Kaia FIT Woodland @ 10am / $15 Start your morning off with yoga in our pollinator garden The HIVE Tasting Room + Kitchen, 1221 Har‐ter Avenue, Woodland. thehive@ zspecialtyfood.com, 530-6680660

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

Downtown Pleasant Hill Announces Light Up The Night Holiday Event @ 4:30pm / Free Light Up the Night will take over the entire downtown corridor of Pleas‐ant Hill and feature the engaging tree lighting ceremony, holiday ex‐press train, live music and carolers on two stages. Downtown Pleasant Hill, 60 Crescent Dr, Pleasant Hill Robin Hood The Musical! @ 7pm / $17.85-$23.18 Get ready to be transported to Sherwood Forest with "Robin Hood The Musical" presented by the Winters Theatre Company! Winters Opera House, 13 Main Street, Winters. winterstheatre@ gmail.com, 530-795-4014

John Brothers Piano Company: SATURDAY 11/23 @ The Lost Church @ 7:30pm The Lost Church San Francisco, 988 Columbus Ave, San Francisco HOME TURF - DJ Ajax spinning old school and throwbacks @ 9pm / Free-$6.15 Neck of the Woods, San Francisco

Operating Systems x FAKE and GAY: umru, GRRL, DJ Chaotic Ugly @ 10pm f8, 1192 Folsom St, San Francisco DJ Peeti-V @ 11pm Barwest Midtown, 2724 J St, Sacramento

Youth Orchestra @ 2pm Davies Symphony Hall, San Fran‐cisco

On the Same Page @ 2:30pm / $5 Celebrate the art of song and text setting with Insight Chamber Play‐ers! In this cycle, we will compare songs which share the same texts to explore their various styles of composition and style. St. Francis Wood Salon, 1365 Portola Drive, San Francisco. admin@in sightchamber.com

Build Us Airplanes @ 3pm The Hotel Utah Saloon, 500 4th St, San Francisco

Gaucho at Brenda's @ 5pm

Brenda's French Soul Food, 652 Polk St, San Francisco

Adam Miller: Haze Fest 2024 Day 2 @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Dale Crover @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Lakeside Laughs @ 9:30pm / $26.60

Harveys Cabaret at Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline

Raveena Aurora @ 6pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento

Raveena @ 7pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento

Tinashe @ 7pm Ace of Spades, 1417 R Street, Sacramento

Orla Gartland @ 7pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell St, San Francisco

Emma Harner @ 7pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell St, San Francisco

Madi Diaz

@ 8pm

Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 99 Grove St, San Francisco

The Sloppy Boys Podcast @ 8pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐Farrell St., San Francisco

Rainbow Kitten Surprise @ 8pm Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 99 Grove Street, San Francisco

GG Amos Trio - The Saloon @ 5pm The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco

GamperDrums FunkJazzFeaturing Drewzingg and Paul Eastburn @ 6pm Boom Boom Room, 1601 Fillmore St, San Francisco

Perry Sings Sinatra @ 7pm / $20 Step into a bygone era as Perry enchants you with the smooth and swingin' classics of Frank Sinatra! 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Francisco. aprill@musicci tysf.org

Anna Laura Quinn: Spec's 12 Adler Cafe @ 7pm Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe, 12 William Saroyan Place, San Francisco

SeeYouSpaceCowboy... @ 7pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento

03 Greedo with Fats The Man: The Life That I Deserve Tour @ 7pm The Regency Ballroom, 1300 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco

San Francisco Symphony @ 7:30pm Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave, San Fran‐cisco

Friday Nov 22nd

Robin Hood The Musical! Opening Gala @ 6:30pm / $23.18-$28.52 Winters Opera House, 13 Main Street, Winters. wintersthe atre@gmail.com, 530-795-4014 Get

@ 6pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco

KENNY Y LOS

ELECTRICOS @ 6pm Roccapulco, 3140 Mission St, San Francisco

Interpuesto @ 6pm Roccapulco, 3140 Mission St, San

CHANGSZN TOUR @ 7pm Harlow's, 2708 J St, Sacramento ANDRE NICKATINA @ 7pm Vinnie's Bar & Grill, Concord

Gaucho at Comstock Saloon @ 8pm Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco

Huffy @ 9pm Monarch, 101 6th St, San Fran‐cisco

isobel @ 9pm Monarch, 101 6th St, San Fran‐cisco Rush Hour @ 9pm Monarch, 101 6th St, San Fran‐cisco

Claptone @ 10pm 1015 Folsom, 1015 Folsom St, San Francisco DJ Peeti-V @ 10pm Mix Downtown, 1525 L St, Sacra‐mento

Boca Do Rio @ 3pm SacYard Community Tap House, 1725 33rd St, Sacramento Tantra Speed Date® - San Francisco! Meet Singles Speed Dating @ 5:30pm / $50-$140 Join the speed dating revolution with a 94% connection rate! Meet singles & ignite connections through fun, chemistry-building games! Yoga Studio, 1694 Union Street, San Francisco. help@ tantrany.com

Wine Festival with Out

Plenary focuses on advancing shared watershed projects

At its recent Countywide Plenary for Water, the El Dorado Water Agency brought together leaders throughout the region to collaborate on strategies to protect the county’s headwaters.

The watershed provides numerous benefits for the environment and for residents near and far including food, clean water, recreation opportunities, fire risk reduction, flood protection and more. However, natural disasters, changing weather patterns and aging infrastructure threaten the watershed. Large multi-agency projects are needed to strengthen the watershed and protect the ecosystems and the communities that depend on it.

Discussions at the fall plenary focused on how to best advance projects that span multiple jurisdictions and help ensure that the interests of various parties are met, instead of focusing on a single use of the land. These types of projects are often referred to as landscape-scale projects. Attendees at the plenary included water and utility managers, business and community leaders, nonprofit organizations and staff from local, state and federal agencies, many of whom are part of the Upper American River Watershed Group that developed the 2023 Programmatic Watershed Plan.

Plenary attendees discussed the need for proactive planning and increased accountability as well as placed an emphasis on identifying common goals and sharing lessons learned. The overarching takeaway from the thoughtful discussion was the need for partnership as one organization or entity cannot advance landscape-scale projects alone.

In addition, the smaller breakout groups identified financial, regulatory, institutional, partnership

Golf Continued from A4

strong quality Emily has developed as an upperclassman is leadership. It has been really nice seeing her take some of the underclassmen under her wings.

Cristina Case is the other junior and has been a staple on the traveling team for the past two seasons. She is able to balance golf, school and being an actively involved member of the school’s plays each fall. Even with all of that on her plate she comes to practice with a smile, good attitude and works hard to get better. Cristina ﬁnished 11th in the league, just one spot from All-League.

Abbie Varozza is one of two talented and upcoming sophomores on the team. Abbie got o to a late start this season, but has quickly turned her season around with a new passion for the game that has allowed her to show

Costco Continued from A1

community and near Oak Meadow Elementary School. Revised plans recently submitted to El Dorado County eliminate those secondary projects.

The most-recent proposal, if approved, would include an approximately 160,000-square-foot Costco warehouse retail center and customer parking (above and below ground) on the south side of Silva Valley Parkway on approximately 17.63 acres. The Costco gas station,

and social barriers that often stand in the way of securing investments and completing large watershed conservation and restoration projects. Common themes emerged in both breakout group and panelists discussions including challenges related to underfunded projects, conflicting priorities, redundant policies, lack of performance-based assessments, internal silos and public outreach.

“The Programmatic Watershed Plan provides a roadmap and now we are working to increase understanding of the barriers we face and deepen partnerships so we can put into place innovative solutions to move landscape-scale projects forward,” said Rebecca Guo, general manager of El Dorado Water Agency.

The panelists, Kathleen McIntyre (Tahoe Regional Planning Agency); JoAnna Lessard (Yuba Water Agency); Elena DeLacy (American River Conservancy); Mark Egbert (El Dorado & Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation Districts); and Rae Dunstan (Tahoe-Central Sierra Initiative), encouraged attendees to think about how they can be a strategic partner and work with others both in and outside their jurisdiction.

They discussed how it is important to define the roles of partners and play to their strengths. They also described partnerships they established to advance forest health, water quality, and water for fire suppression infrastructure, giving attendees examples of how they brought all of the key players to the table to move multi-benefit landscape-scale projects forward to benefit local communities and environment.

To view the Plenary materials and learn more please visit the EDWA website at eldoradocounty.ca.gov/ edwateragency/Programs-Projects/ Communication-Advocacy.

huge improvements. There’s no doubt that Abbie will be one of the top golfers on the team next season. Elizabeth Bayliss is the other sophomore this season and is trying golf for the ﬁrst time. This has been such a healthy and positive new passion for her. Over the past few months Elizabeth has really grown as a golfer and person. Elizabeth showed improvement in each of the matches she played in this year.

The team had four freshmen (Sadie Burrup, Averi Hamilton, Avila Lyndsey and Elena Kessler) this year that were not only able to learn the game of golf, but each got valuable experience by playing in multiple matches throughout the season. I was super proud of their dedication and work ethic as freshmen on a varsity team.

with an open canopy of 5,000 square feet, and employee parking would be constructed on the north side of Silva Valley Parkway on approximately 3.29 acres. The remaining Costcoowned property on the north side of Silva Valley Parkway will remain vacant.

The new application is under review and there will be opportunities for public comment. For more details visit engageeldorado.us.engagementhq. com/edh-52-mixed-use-center.

now it’s time to narrow in. Specialization is key. Focus on the area that sparks your deepest curiosity, dive into the details, and become an expert. Mastery comes from commitment, not breadth.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21).

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Too much sameness makes you run thought patterns in a loop -- ne if you’re having a fantastic set of thoughts, but not good for thinking that’s stinking. Either way, it’s better to get out and do new things today.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You’ll feel a pull toward the mysteries of your lineage. The stories of your elders will captivate you for a reason. They’ve shaped who you are, and you’ll nd yourself mirroring their paths.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Why put yourself in a position to prove a point? There’s no need to start a competition. What would happen if instead you did all you could to support and highlight the wins of another? That would be a win for both of you.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Step back and survey the scene. There are questions waiting to be asked. A good place to start: “Who can help?” and “What’s the simpler way?” Try to get to the source of the issue instead of merely treating symptoms.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Your image only matters insofar as it helps you make a di erence. Today, someone reveals how you’ve positively impacted their life -- a deeper reward than any compliment or surface approval.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You’ve scanned the horizon, and

SAGITTARIUS

TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

RUBES by Leigh Rubin

SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

SUDOKU

El Dorado Water Agency News release

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Nov. 20

Snowline Health

Dementia Connection Caregiver Support Group meets 1:30-3 p.m. at Green Valley Church, 3500 Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. This is a free caregiver support group and also available is an activity enrichment group (respite) for those with memory loss.

Concerned about what to do if a wild re heads your way?

Are you interested in knowing what re safe councils are doing for the bene t of your community? Please join the Camino Fire Safe Council at 6:30 p.m. at the Cal Fire Station 20 conference room, 2840 Mt. Danaher Road, Camino. There will be copies of our FireWise certi cate available.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents “A Christmas Carol” at The So a in Sacramento Nov. 20 through Dec. 29. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Nov. 21

The Crocker Art Museum will host a showing of “Fanny: The Right to Rock,” the untold story of a Filipina American garage band that morphed into the ferocious rock group Fanny, the rst all-women band to release an album with a major record label. The showing beings at 6:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit crockerart.org.

Nov. 22

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District is hosting a Friendsgiving Potluck at the Gilmore Senior Center starting at 1 p.m. The event is free, but pre-registration is needed as there is limited space. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.

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

The Olde Coloma Theatre presents “’Mrs. Waldecott and the Christmas Spirits” ... or ... “The Coloma Christmas Speck-tacular” Nov. 22 through Dec. 22. 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.

Red Dirt Ruckus will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Ariel Jean Band will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

City Theatre at Sacramento City College presents “A Christmas Carol, The Rock & Roll Panto,” opening Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m. and running until Dec. 15. For tickets and more information, go to citytheatre.net.

Nov. 23

EDH Cars and Co ee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. Everyone and every

Wonderful Wines

El Dorado American Viticultural Area wines reach lofty heights

I❂ Forty-two wines critiqued — none scored under 91 points

Lee Hodo Special to the Mountain Democrat

Adeluge of recent highscoring wines has winemakers and vineyard owners in the El Dorado American Viticultural Area thrilled. JamesSuckling.com and Wine Enthusiast recently made 42 reviews of 29 El Dorado wines, and no wine scored under 91 points. Four 94-point scores were awarded between the two publications. Scores are currently available at JamesSuckling.com and will be in Wine Enthusiast’s December 2024 “Best of the Year” issue.

The high-scoring wines were made by members of the El Dorado 8: Boeger Winery, Cedarville Vineyard, Edio Vineyards, Element 79 Vineyards, Lava Cap, Madroña Vineyards, Miraﬂores Winery and Starﬁeld Vineyards.

❂ A breakthrough in winemaking

n the last two decades, second- and third-generation El Dorado winemakers have interned all over the United States and Europe. At the same time, outof-region winemakers have brought their expertise to this Sierra foothills sub-AVA. This exploration has winemakers in the region unpacking quality benchmarks, distinguishing the El Dorado AVA by coaxing a signature character from grapes grown in an alpine climate and progressing standards in winemaking.

Jonathan Lachs, Cedarville Vineyard winemaker and owner, sees the scores as a breakthrough.

“The risk and commitment involved in growing and producing in this underthe-radar region is earning the attention of respected critics, recognizing the wines made in our high-elevation, granite-based soils yielding grapes with an undeniable sense of place,” Lachs said. “It is a quality appreciated by winemakers from outside El Dorado, as well as winemakers inside El Dorado, who have been shaping expressions of our distinctive terroir with the passion of an underdog.”

Additionally, wineries in this emerging region, not yet as established as the more traveled regions, price their wines at what local patrons can a ord. In the 42 reviews, the highest-priced wine is listed at $46 per 750 ml.

El Dorado AVA is part of the larger Sierra Foothills appellation in California. The region’s elevation and proximity to the alpine terrain of the Sierra Nevada shape wines that are distinct from any others in North America.

For more information on the El Dorado wine region or to taste the wines, contact the El Dorado 8 at (707) 332-0857, sierrahighlands.org or @ eldoradoeight.

The El Dorado AVA has the distinction of being one of the few California appellations deﬁned entirely by elevation, which ranges from 1,100 to 3,500 feet. Soils are diverse and shallow, with the majority being either volcanic or granitic in origin. As well, El Dorado sits in a unique location with two major drainages, the American River canyon, and the Cosumnes River canyon which drain cool air from the Sierra Nevada. These factors allow for an unusual breadth of red and white wine grapes totaling more than 70 varietals grown in mountain vineyards. From these, critics tasted the classics, such as chardonnay and zinfandel, as well as Rhône, Italian and Spanish varieties and blends. From the obscure ﬁano, cinsault, tannat and albariño to the more familiar syrah, sauvignon blanc and cabernet franc — all received glowing comments from the reviewers.

Joan Geel Placerville Shakespeare Club

The Placerville Shakespeare Club hosts its special Winter Rummage Sale featuring warm winter clothing such as coats, jackets, sweaters. Festive holiday decorations will also be o ered as well as many under-the-tree gifts, jewelry, toys, puzzles and games. This one-day-only sale takes place 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, at the Placerville Shakespeare Club, 2940 Bedford Ave. Come early for the best bargains. For more information visit placervilleshakespeare.com.

Mountain Democrat le photo Find holiday decor and more when the Placerville Shakespeare Club opens its doors Nov. 23 for the Winter Rummage Sale.

Youth commissioners step into the spotlight

Whitney Burke

County Office of Education

Dorado

The future of El Dorado County is bright as a new generation of leaders takes the reins through the El Dorado County Youth Commission. Each year, local students are appointed to the commission, where they gain valuable leadership skills and partner with the community to amplify the voices of the county’s youth.

On Tuesday, Nov. 12, these passionate young commissioners had the unique opportunity to shadow the very officials they work with — the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors.

In collaboration with the El Dorado County Office of Education, the Board of Supervisors continues to support and empower the Youth Commission, a group dedicated to developing and expressing the opinions, ideas and visions of the youth in the county.

Established in 2003, the program offers students a chance to develop leadership skills and partner with the community

while tackling issues that matter most to their peers. The commissioners work closely with county officials, assisting in community initiatives and helping connect youth with available resources. By engaging directly with local government, the students gain a deeper understanding of how policies and decisions impact their lives.

At this year’s

Shadow Day, youth commissioners were introduced to the public as they sat alongside their district leaders and shared personal stories about why they joined the commission. Their reasons ranged from wanting to create meaningful change to a commitment to supporting and advocating for their peers.

“It is inspiring to see these youth

commissioners committed to being a voice for their peers and recognizing the importance of contributing to their community,” said El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala. “There is so much promise in this room, and we are deeply grateful for this meaningful partnership.”

The day was also

marked by a touching tribute to District

1 Supervisor John Hidahl, a beloved public servant who passed away earlier this month. Hidahl was known for his dedication to the community, particularly his deep understanding of and commitment to the county’s youth. In a heartfelt moment, youth commissioner Sophia Sumimoto read a letter from the Youth Commission to the

Board of Supervisors expressing their admiration for Hidahl and his lasting impact on their lives.

“John was someone who championed youth publicly,” said Sumimoto. “He understood how vital it is to support young people and give them a voice. We will miss him deeply.”

For educator Kevin Potter, Youth Commission advisor, Shadow Day is always a reminder of the bright future ahead. “Every time I interact with the youth commissioners, I go home inspired. These are phenomenal kids and I love following their lead,” Potter said.

As the youth commissioners shadowed their district leaders, it became clear that these young individuals were not just learning about local government but shaping its future. With a renewed commitment to serving their community, the Youth Commission stands as a testament to the power of youth leadership, collaboration and civic engagement.

Williams Brooks school garden continues to grow

Noel Stack Editor

Children recently munched on healthy foods at a picnic table surrounded by freshly planted trees at the William Brooks Elementary School’s new orchard inside the school garden. It was a moment about a year in the making for garden project leaders Shelley Joyer and Christy

Calderon, who have spent the last two years growing the outdoor program designed to boost students’ love of gardening and healthy snacks and provide an outdoor, hands-on science education.

This latest enhancement celebrated at a special event Nov. 14 includes a new fence, a wildflower cutting bed and more than a dozen fruit trees sponsored by families. The total cost of about $6,000 was covered by a

grant and donations. Donors are recognized on an apple tree display that still has room for more of the red, rosy fruits that bear the names of the generous families and individuals.

“The fence was a priority,” Calderon explained. “We needed to keep all the animals out.”

The Brooks garden does have a lot of tasty and tempting treats. In addition to the orchard, the garden features several raised garden beds for

vegetables and flowers. There’s also a worm bin and storage shed as well as a little library filled with gardening and recipe books.

As students, school staff and families milled about during the latest expansion’s ribbon cutting, Joyer and Calderon couldn’t stop smiling — and are already thinking about what to do next.

“Chickens!” Calderon exclaimed. “I would love to have chickens.”

Silva Valley Elementary expands its learning environment

News release

The Silva Valley Elementary School PTA

unveiled a new outdoor learning space at Silva Valley Elementary School on Nov. 15.

This newly constructed outdoor classroom, which features tables with umbrellas and a beautiful October Glory maple, was presented to the students, teachers, staff and families at a ribbon cutting event Friday morning.

“This new outdoor learning space was made possible through various fundraising efforts of the 2023-24 Silva Valley PTA,” explained Teresa Abney, president of the Silva Valley PTA. “Our PTA is proud to donate this peaceful outdoor space for all Silva Valley students, teachers and staff to enjoy, now and for years to come.”

Courtesy photo

El Dorado County youth commissioners shadow their district supervisors during the Nov. 12 Board of Supervisors meeting.

Mountain Democrat photos by Noel Stack

Students enjoy snacks in the new Brooks Elementary orchard, at left. The garden expansion was unveiled last week. At right, an apple tree recognizes donors who support the garden program.

Courtesy photos Silva Valley Elementary Principal Brandon Beadle greets students at Friday’s ribbon cutting event, during which a new outdoor learning space was opened.

Are you looking for some ways to earn some extra money? Here are some kid-tested jobs that have worked! Be sure you discuss your ideas and get approval from your parents before getting started.

Service:

Suggested age:

Suggested pricing:

Tips on getting started:

Tips for success:

Draw a line from each word to the dog picture that best matches that emotion.

Walk dogs

Kids 8 years and older

$2.00 for a 30 minute walk

Start with small dogs for a short amount of time.

Make and hand out business cards or put up flyers.

Treat the dogs with kindness and respect.

Ask the owner for some of the dog’s favorite treats.

Hold this page up to a mirror to read this helpful quote about money.

Discuss the quote above with your parents. Explain what you think it means.

Service:

Suggested age:

Suggested pricing: Tips on getting started:

Wrap gifts

Kids 10 years and older

$1.00 per package

Make a flier to pass out to your neighbors and friends. Ask your parents to share it with their friends and co-workers, too.

Tips for success:

Return the wrapped packages on time.

Obey all pedestrian laws on using

rian laws on all pedest sidewalks. ria

Rake leaves

Service:

Suggested age:

Suggested pricing:

Tips on getting started:

Tips for success:

Josh and Maria

Wrap each package very neatly. Add a gift tag and a nice bow or decoration to each package.

Kids 8 years and older

$4.00 for 30 minutes

Make leaf-shaped flyers to give to neighbors.

Wear gloves and make sure you put all leaves where instructed.

Be careful not to damage plants.

All but one of these leaves has a duplicate shaped twin. Can you circle the unique leaf?

Make a list of 10 businesses that advertise in the newspaper. Using graph paper, make a word search puzzle using the names of these 10 businesses. Then mail your word search puzzle to the newspaper’s publisher.

Try to use the word emotion in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members. Riley tried to keep her emotions under control

LET’S GET FIT!

Instructor jazzed about her Divide fitness program’s longevity

Rebecca Murphy

Special to the Mountain Democrat

At 24, Geri Teixeira of Cool probably never dreamed she would still be in the fitness business at 68, but after 43 years of dance aerobics she and her students are still going strong.

“This class has been more than a business venture,” said Teixeira of her Georgetown class. “I’ve grown to love this community and my students, who have become dear friends.”

Be Jazzed Fitness started two years before the birth of Teixeira’s first son, Ben. She returned to dance instructor duties just six weeks following delivery and danced through her second pregnancy with son, Jason.

Throughout the years, Teixeira and her students, many of them teachers and former teachers with the Black Oak Mine Unified School District, have participated and organized dance-athon fundraisers for a variety of charitable causes, raising thousands of dollars for earthquake victims, breast cancer research, tsunami relief, heart disease, MS research and for restoration of Georgetown’s Odd Fellows Hall, built in 1851. This speaks to the stamina and endurance of Be Jazzed dancers, who seek individual donations for participating in three hours of continuous movement.

Teixeira takes her

students through a 10-minute warmup before embarking on a 40-minute aerobic workout. Classes include a variation of STEP/ dance combination, dance aerobics and free weights. Floor work includes the free weights and stretching routines, all choreographed by Teixeira. A cool-down is always the end of any aerobic workout. Teixeira has maintained continuing education credits in fitness and is certified by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, which offered an additional

certification as a personal trainer that she also acquired. Teixeira has completed extensive training in pilates and core workshops as well as fitness for middle-age and seniors, and became an official ZUMBA instructor in 2011.

Some of the women in Teixeira’s fitness program have been dancing and working out with her since the beginning in 1981. Pam Bailey of Garden Valley, a small community 5 miles outside of Georgetown, began classes with Teixeira two months after the birth of her daughter, Gennelle,

who also exercises with Be Jazzed Fitness.

“Geri is the best,” said Pam. “She has so much love and enthusiasm for her students and seeing them achieve the fitness level they strive for. I particularly like the weight-bearing exercises.

“I love the community that Geri has created in our lives,” she added. “Geri has brought together an incredible group of women who have depended on her classes for 43 years.”

Gennelle, who grew up going to Teixeira’s Be Jazzed classes as a baby, added, “I didn’t

The elegance of the holidays starts at the table with meals, desserts and drinks shared among loved ones. This year, let grapes add easy elegance to seasonal recipes as a signature ingredient perfect for special occasions.

As a highly versatile addition to appetizers, snacks, main courses, sides and desserts, grapes are an essential ingredient to keep on hand. Thanks to their delicate sweetness and juicy texture, Grapes from California can be the star at the center of the meal in unique and tasty Braised Pork Chops with Spiced Honey and Grapes served with Spiked Grape Cider for a cozy adult beverage. Finish the celebration by sharing Grape BasqueStyle Cheesecake, where delicious, fresh grape juice is used in the cheesecake batter to lend natural sweetness and enhance ﬂavor. Decorate the top with fresh, juicy grapes for a ﬁnal festive touch. Find more sweet ideas to celebrate the holidays at GrapesfromCalifornia.com.

Braised Pork Chops with Spiced Honey and Grapes

Servings: 4

4 thick pork chops (about 3 pounds)

4 tablespoons ﬂour

2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

1 1/2 cups whole red or black Grapes from California

1/3 cup honey

2 small cinnamon sticks, broken

3-5 whole cloves

1/2 teaspoon dried ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)

Preheat oven to 325 F.

Heat heavy, lidded saute pan or casserole dish over medium-high heat. Dust pork chops with ﬂour and brown slowly in melted butter. Do not let ﬂour burn. Remove pan from heat and add grapes, honey, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, salt and pepper. Cover and place in oven.

Braise slowly 50-60 minutes, or until pork is tender. Remove pork from pan and keep warm. Skim pan sauce of excess fat.

Arrange pork chops on serving platter, spoon with sauce and sprinkle with chopped mint, if desired. Nutritional information per serving: 569 calories; 54

swim, as well as simple jogging moves with some turns. Teixeira has also choreographed low-impact and chair exercises.

Also participating Be Jazzed Fitness for 43 years is Sharon Dwight, a former substitute teacher for the classes.

“I was there day one,” said Dwight, who substituted when Geri went on maternity leave with her second son.

“I had to leave from the first class and take cupcakes to my son, Kohn’s, classroom for his birthday. He was 7 then; he’s now 50.”

Dwight echoed Gennelle’s comment regarding Teixeira’s love and concern for every person in her classes.

“Geri cares so much for her students,” she said. “She really wants everyone to do well and be healthy.”

obviously know then how amazingly positive and creative Geri is with her workouts. Now that I’m 43 and working out with my 76-year old mom, I can see how much love and energy Geri puts into each and every month’s workout.”

Along with her intense interest in relevant and modern music, Teixeira also maintains an extraordinary ability to choreograph. Her workouts include dance steps such as chassé, plié, triplets, jazz square and basic march steps. High-intensity moves include jumping jacks, twist, the jerk and the

Another substitute teacher for classes along the way is Dwight’s daughter, Jennifer, now 53. She taught classes over the years when Teixeira took a couple trips to the Bahamas and when she had hip replacement surgery in 2014. Teixeira had a second hip replacement in 2022 or 2023. Both had to do with heredity, not her dancing.

“My mom would drop me off for dance classes (ballet, tap, jazz) at the old Masonic Hall (now the Georgetown Community Center) on Lower Main Street while she went to Geri’s classes,” said Jennifer. “I was 10ish. There’s so

n See FITNESS, page B5

Courtesy photo

Geri Teixeira leads a popular class at the Georgetown IOOF Hall. For decades residents have lived healthier lifestyles thanks to Teixeira’s efforts.

much to say about Geri, but here are a few words to describe her:

“She has morphed over the years to stay relevant in the health

Jennifer added. “She cares deeply for her students, their families and the community. She was a personal inspiration to me to start teaching exercise classes that eventually led me to advanced studies in yoga. Thank goodness she chose this career path and also chose our sweet area to land in.”

As a student and substitute teacher of Teixeira’s classes, this writer personally has experienced her expertise in her field. My most recent love for dance, which I already had from college classes, has come from the dance exercises learned in her classes. At 68, I have worked out with Teixeira for more than half of my life.

Know Continued from B1

“Fitness is a catalyst to enhance your walk through life,” Teixeira said. “It’s an ongoing journey always changing, growing and improving despite the pitfalls. Music and movement have helped us through good times and troubled times.”

Teixeira’s advice to everyone: “Find a program, a class, a sport that you love. The benefits will follow. I hope everyone will find their best avenue to wellness.”

Be Jazzed Fitness is held every Monday and Wednesday 6:15-7:30 p.m., and every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, starting at 9 a.m. All classes are at the Georgetown IOOF Hall at the corner of Main Street and Highway 193 in Georgetown. Teixeira also entertains phone calls from prospective students interested in learning more. She can be reached at (530) 823-1128.

7-9 a.m. at Lions Park. Hang out with other car enthusiasts.

The Cameron Park Community Services District’s Christmas Craft Faire will kick off the holiday season starting at 9 a.m. and running until 3 p.m. Enjoy free photos with Santa from 10 a.m. to noon.

GriefShare hosts Surviving The Holidays, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Faith Church, 2200 Country Club Drive, Cameron Park. Enroll at GriefShare.org/Holidays or email or weathersc@aol.com.

The Coloma Community Market takes place 1-4 p.m., drizzle or shine, the second and fourth Saturdays at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. Find great local products while enjoying live music, food, beverages and more. Parking is free during the market hours. The Murer House Boutique is back 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come down for a free tour of the historical house in Folsom all dressed up for the holidays. Stay to shop and grab a piece of fresh pizza.

TNTiki will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

Ride Captain Ride will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera presents Ari, Awadagin and Tchaikovsky for one night only at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center starting at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 476-5975 or visit sacphilopera.org.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents “’Tis the Season: Folktales and Fables” at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Knight Foundry will hold its monthly fourth Saturday selfguided walking tour day where visitors will discover an innovative, interactive video, text and in-person experience as they explore the foundry complex. Expert docents are on hand to run the magnificent antique machinery and talk with visitors 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit knightfoundry.com or call (209) 560-6160.

Nov. 24

El Dorado Western Railroad offers excursion rides with trains running on the hour, 10 a.m. through 1 p.m., weather permitting, at the Shingle Springs Station. For more information visit facebook.com/ ElDoradoWesternRailroad.

Sierra Vista Vineyards and Winery, 4560 Cabernet Way in Placerville, hosts Eggistential Sundays. Every Sunday Chef Justin will create freshly made omelets and frittatas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. No reservations needed. For more information call (530) 622-7221.

Red’s Blues Band will perform at 3 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music. Back Porch Swing will perform at the Smith Flat House at 5 p.m. For tickets and more information, go to smithflathouse.com.

Nov. 26

Vitalant will hold a Placerville Cinema blood drive 1-3 p.m. at 337 Placerville Drive. Donors will receive one in-hand Fandango movie voucher and one coupon for a large popcorn from Placerville Cinema. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood

SMFM553 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

Vitalant will hold an El Dorado Hills Stadium 14 & IMAX Theater blood drive 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2101 Vine St. Donors will receive one in-hand Fandango movie voucher and one coupon for a large popcorn from Placerville Cinema. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org

Maggie’s House Cleaning

Available for weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, & one time cleaning. Reliable, honest, and has over 20 years of experience.

margaritalherrera@icloud.com

Courtesy photo

Geri Teixeira’s chair fitness classes appeal to students of all abilities.

The Oaks Nature Trail at Folsom SRA

The Oaks Nature Trail in the Folsom State Recreation Area is a

1.6 mile out-and-back walking trail through oak trees.

I entered the park from Rattlesnake Bar. The 9-mile drive is beautiful in the springtime with rolling hills and lush green grass for the cattle that live here. This is coming in the backdoor of the park via Pilot Hill in El Dorado County. No lines but fewer

Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday is the day when people around the world are inspired to support those who make positive changes in the lives of others, especially those within our own communities. This year, we want to say “thank you” to those who supported the Master Gardeners of El Dorado County by graciously donating on Giving Tuesday 2023. Your gifts helped us

amenities. This is the campground access for those who car camp.

Day use parking is $12 in Folsom and there is no way around it on this hike. I suggest a Poppy Pass for $125.

Through the gate, down the hill to the left is a small parking lot with a port-a-potty, picnic table, drinking fountain and view of Folsom Lake — a perfect place for a family picnic. The well-signed trail begins at the southeast corner of the parking lot.

A series of switchbacks takes you through the oak stand with several interpretive signs along the way. Sturdy bridges and handsome wooden railing guide you much of the way. A creek spills into Folsom Lake in winter and early spring and adds to the magic of this trail with wildﬂowers adding to its scenery. This would be a great ﬁrst date hike or if you wanted to get young children out on a trail.

fulﬁll our mission of educating people in our communities with sciencebased methods of growing healthy food, reducing the use of pesticides, conserving water and gardening sustainably.

In 2024 we held free public education classes throughout El Dorado County, responded to inquiries on our Ask a Master Gardener helpline, maintained our Sherwood Demonstration Garden, hosted our free annual

It’s easy with little elevation gain, wide and well maintained.

At the end of the trail is another parking lot for the boat launch complete with a dock to get closer to the water. Of course, you can park in this lot and do the hike in reverse by coming in another gate. The return trip is just as nice with the picnic table waiting for you at the end.

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.

Fall into Gardening event, o ered both ornamental and edible plants at our popular plant sale, sta ed tables at the El Dorado Hills and Placerville farmers markets, continued our partnership with Mother Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises to teach adults of all abilities gardening and nutrition, published home gardening articles weekly in the Mountain Democrat, conducted numerous demonstration garden tours for schools, garden clubs and other groups and lots more.

Susan Zito

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

Your tax-deductible gift on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3, will go directly to Master Gardeners of El Dorado County by simply following the link found here: give.ucanr.edu/forms/ ElDorado-MG.

•Click the plus sign to add the speciﬁc program you wish to support to the “I am giving to” column. Our local programs are: El Dorado County Master Gardener- Sherwood Demo Garden Fund and El Dorado County Master Gardener Program

• Select the amount you wish to donate or click “other” and add the amount.

• Click “continue” and add your gift information.

Thank you so much for your continued support. We look forward

to seeing you in the garden. Master Gardener classes are o ered monthly throughout the county. You can ﬁnd our schedule at: mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/ Calendar/ and recorded classes on many gardening topics here: mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/ Public_Education/ Classes/ The Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open, weather permitting, on the ﬁrst Saturday of the month, from November through February 9:00 am - noon. First Saturday tour starts promptly at 9:00 am. Please check our website for further information about activities at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden at: ucanr. edu/sites/EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden/ Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on our website: mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/ Ask_a_Master_Gardener/ or leave a message on our o ce telephone: 530-621-5512. We’ll get back to you! Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. For more information on the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County, see our website at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu.

Photos by Mary West

Gorgeous oaks stand tall and beautiful scenery awaits on the The Oaks Nature Trail in Folsom. There is a great picnic spot at one of the trailheads.

DAY HIKER

Mary West Outdoor columnist