Mountain Democrat, Friday, December 13, 2024 by mcnaughtonmedia

A Magical Workshop

EDHS woodshop transforms into holiday hub

Odin Rasco

Senior sta writer

El Dorado High School’s wood shop was transformed into a winter wonderland Friday, Dec. 6 and Monday, Dec. 9, part of a yearly tradition that brings smiles to hundreds of local youngsters. Through the e orts of woodshop teacher and Chief Elf Lance Gunnersen and his students, the classroom normally home to awls, lathes, saws and hammers was given a festive facelift and turned into Santa’s Toy Shop. More than 400 local kindergarteners from nearby schools visited the workshop Friday morning, with a second batch of students visiting a twinkling nighttime event Monday. EDHS students dressed as Santa’s helpful elves greeted the cheerful

tykes and helped run homemade games and experiences, such as a tabletop bowling lane and the perennially

“It’s an

event,”

Fire Board President Tim White and the other three directors got back to the business at hand during a special Dec. 9 board meeting. The final agenda item: filling the seat Hidahl never got to take. The District 1 supervisor, who had previously served on the fire board for 33 years and then eight years as a county supervisor, died Nov. 2 — three days before he was reelected to the fire board. Hidahl won one of two full-term seats, taking the top spot in that race.

The EDH Fire Board — including newly sworn-in Directors Dan Donelli and Kevin Gotro

Placerville tobacco ordinance progress snuffed again

Odin Rasco Senior sta writer

Hopes for an expedient answer to the proliferation of smoke and vape shops opening in Placerville shrank back toward the horizon the night of Tuesday, Dec. 10, as the Placerville City Council determined it would likely have to once again revise its tobacco retail ordinance before adoption.

Initially set on the council’s agenda as a second reading of a new ordinance, which would set a cap on stores selling tobacco in the city and set the stage for licensing rules and fees, now-former mayor Jackie Neau (John Clerici was made mayor of the city earlier in the meeting) moved to have the item pulled from the consent calendar to allow for further discussion.

“I want to apologize, because this one does just keep coming back to us,” Neau prefaced her request to have the item pulled. In light of questions raised by local business owners paired with other potential inconsistencies in the ordinance spotted by other council members, the council

popular rocking horses.

amazing

said woodshop Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

El Dorado High School’s woodshop was made virtually unrecognizable thanks to efforts by students and community members to transform the classroom into a holiday wonderland. Above, Carlene Hernandez from Camino tried her hand at tabletop bowling at Santa’s Toy Shop. EDHS shop students put months of effort into preparing the event, building a bevy of handmade toys and games.

JOHN HIDAHL

ESSENTIALS

OBITUARIES

Roy Anthony Abbanat, MD

July 27, 1940 – Oct 31, 2024

Robert “Bob” Weyeneth

Oct 30, 1937 – Oct 23, 2024

Roy Abbanat was born on July 27, 1940, in Biwabik, Minnesota. At age seven, his family moved to California, seeking greater opportunities for him and his older brother, Jerry. Roy graduated as valedictorian from El Camino High School in Sacramento in 1958, excelling in a class of 680 students. Recognized for his academic achievements in science and math, Roy received scholarships from the Bank of America and earned a full scholarship to Dartmouth College in NH, where he graduated cum laude in 1962. He completed his Bachelor of Medical Science at Dartmouth Medical School in 1963 and earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of California in San Francisco in 1965. Roy returned to Dartmouth for an internship before pursuing a twoyear residency at Oakland Children’s Hospital. Roy served his country at Fort Ord in Monterey County, providing pediatric care to children of soldiers preparing for deployment during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he settled in Pleasanton, CA and co-founded a pediatric practice with Dr. David Li, a classmate from UCFS. Their offices in Pleasanton and Livermore became staples of the community. Roy retired in 1997, selling his practice to Bayside Medical, and moved to Pollock Pines, where he enjoyed the forest, snow, and views of Jenkinson Lake. In 2020, he relocated to Sun City Lincoln for health reasons. On October 31, 2024, Roy passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. He is deeply missed by his wife of 60 years, Carol Abbanat; children: Beth Stewart (Richard), Karen Jacobson (Eric) and Brian Abbanat (Jennifer); brother, Jerry Abbanat (Carole); niece and nephews: Deanne Abbanat (Paul Caldwell), Steven Abbanat (Susan), Scott Abbanat, and Robert Becker; grandchildren: Ally and Anthony Isenhour, Elise and Chelsea Jacobson, Megan, Tyler and Sarah Abbanat. Roy’s life was marked by dedication to his family, his patients, and his community.

Richard Lee Halk

Oct. 7, 1944 – Dec. 1, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our Patriarch Richard Halk, formerly of Halk Equipment Rentals & Party Royal in Shingle Springs. Richard, known as “Rich”, was full of love, laughter, & resilience, He touched the lives of all who knew him. Rich was generous, always willing to help his community. Richard Lee Halk was born to McConnell and Laura Halk (neé Drews) in Dodge City, Kansas on October 7, 1944. He took his walk into the glory of God’s kingdom on December 1, 2024. A long time resident of El Dorado County, Richard attended El Dorado High School, graduating with the class of 1963. He worked in construction, building dams throughout California, he worked on the BART trans bay tube connecting SF & Oakland under the Bay. In 1965, he met & married Roberta DeLaCruz. They had four children, John, Karen, Sharon, & Michelle. Richard owned & operated R & R Equipment Rental on Placerville Drive. Later, Rich ventured into trucking, equipment sales & in 1987, he married Carol Ann Stafford. They briefly lived in Simi Valley. Richard drove limo while earning his Real Estate License. They enjoyed traveling, eventually moving back to Shingle Springs in 1989 & taking ownership of Halk Equipment Rental in Shingle Springs. Richard was devastated in 1995 when Carol suffered a brain aneurysm & he lovingly he cared for Carol at home until her death in 2008. Richard, a dedicated family man, cherished his family. Rich was a car enthusiast with a passion for Jaguar’s. He had a red 2008 XJ8 convertible and was active in JAG, a Bay Area car club. He planned & enjoyed leading drives through the winding scenic roads of El Dorado county. Rich was the editor of the newsletter “The JAGazette”. He became the President of the club for several years. In 2004, Rich moved to the yellow house with a brick fireplace in the yard on Lotus Road known as B.O.B. Ranch where he hosted many events for his family. Rich loved to share the history of the property being a stagecoach stop during the gold rush & that the driveway used to be old Lotus Road. In 2022, Rich retired from Halk Rentals. In 2023, Richard heard the good news & accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal savior & was baptized by his brother Bob Halk. Richard is survived by his brother Robert “Bob” Halk (Marilyn) of El Dorado CA, sister Barbara Ludwig of St. Louis MO, son John Halk of Sacramento, CA, daughters Karen Cervantes of Merced, CA & Sharon Halk of Alliance, NE. Grandchildren Amber (Joel) Merical of Herald, CA; James Halk of San Jose,CA; Ashley (Alex) Guizar of Merced, CA; Thomas (Lauryn) Cervantes of Las Vegas, NV; Elizabeth Cervantes of Merced, CA; Daniel Halk of Hawaii; Martin Valadez & Andrea Richards of Alliance, NE, Justin Hodgkin of Sacramento, Andrew Alfonso of Placerville, Marlene Burcham as well as numerous great grandchildren, nieces & nephews. Rich is preceded in death by wife Carol Halk; ex-wife & mother of his children, Roberta Halk, daughter Michelle Hodgkin (Curtis Hodgkin) & granddaughter Jessica Cervantes. The community is invited to join us on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at noon. Freedom Church 4414 Commodity Way, Cameron Park, Ca for a celebration of life. Reception will follow at El Dorado Post 119-American Legion 4561 Greenstone Road. Internment will take place at Westwood Hills Memorial Park.

Robert (Bob) Weyeneth, 86, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Shingle Springs, CA on October 23, 2024 with his son Robert Jr. by his side. Born on October 30, 1937, in Erie, PA, Bob was raised in Girard, PA by his loving parents, Ralph and Rebecca Weyeneth (Lesure), along with his two sisters, June and Autumn, all of whom predeceased him. Bob met the love of his life, Betty Callahan, in high school when she invited him to a Sadie Hawkins Dance. They were married for 57 years, until Betty’s passing on July 6, 2014. Together, they built a life filled with love and family. After serving in the U.S. Navy and receiving an honorable discharge, Bob and Betty, along with their young daughter, Luanne Marie (born May 8, 1958), moved to Carmichael, CA. Their son, Robert Fulton Weyeneth Jr., was born on April 3, 1961, and the family settled in Carmichael, where Bob and Betty raised their children. Once the kids had graduated, Bob fulfilled Betty’s dream of building a home in Shingle Springs, saying he had created her own “Land Park” to enjoy. Bob was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, known affectionately as “Papa Great.” A kind and hardworking man, he lived his life to the fullest, cherishing every moment with his loved ones. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Bob was also predeceased by his beloved daughter, Luanne Marie Vierra, who passed away on February 11, 2024. Bob is also survived by his daughter Luanne’s husband, Jeff Vierra, and their two daughters: Christine St. Lawrence and her husband Ken, with great-grandchildren Kenny, Autumn, and Rebecca (Becca)—Autumn named after Bob’s sister, and Rebecca after his mother; Heather Wicks and her husband Joseph, with great-granddaughters Lyla and Violet. He is also survived by his son, Robert Weyeneth Jr. and his wife Donise, and their children, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Travis and great-grandchildren Ace and Aurelia; Danielle and her husband Jake Wanta, with great-granddaughter Ana; Bryce and his wife Stephany Pantera, with great-grandchildren Destiny, Bryce Jr., and Kylie; Dillon and his wife Stephanie Weyeneth, along with grandsons Brent Pantera, Blake, and Brandon Weyeneth. In his earlier years, Bob loved fishing and hunting. In his later years, he continued to appreciate the outdoors and could often be found sitting on his porch, telling stories of his rich, fulfilling life to his family and friends. He often remarked that he had lived a great life, and those who knew him would wholeheartedly agree. Bob’s legacy of love, hard work, and kindness will live on through his family and friends. He will be talked of often and never forgotten. 12/9/24 @ 11AM Internment: Sac Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Rd., Dixon, CA 95620 . 12/9/24 @ 1PM Celebration of Life: Christ Community Church, 5025 Manzanita Ave., Carmichael, CA 95608

Richard Jeffery Hobbs Sr.

Sept. 18, 1934 – Oct. 2, 2024

In Loving Memory of Richard Jeffery Hobbs Sr. We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Richard Jeffery Hobbs Sr, a remarkable man who lived an extraordinary life for 90 wonderful years. His creativity, gentle soul, and passion for his craft left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Known for his incredible talent in building cars, Richard was a true innovator. His work was even featured in the movie Hot Rod Hullabaloo, where he built the iconic dragster that famously ran off a cliff. He had a passion for making micro midget cars and was the first to install reverse gear in them, forever changing the way they were built. His meticulous attention to detail extended to his vast collection of World War I and II paraphernalia, which he cared for with the utmost precision. But perhaps most memorable was his deep love for animals. During the water shortage in the 1970s, when Nicasio Lake dried up, Richard took it upon himself to save the turtles, gathering them and persuading people in Marin County to avoid using pool chemicals so the turtles could find refuge there. He had a special bond with nature and animals, including the alligators he cared for, which were even used in George Lucas’s Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. His connection to animals wasn’t just practical but deeply heartfelt. He was a Civil Air Patrol member at just 16, always a man of action with a love for service. And through it all, he was a storyteller—captivating us with tales of his childhood in Spencer, New York. Whether it was a simple story about being chased by a turkey he swore was six feet tall or his recounting of life’s adventures, he always knew how to make us laugh and listen. He was also known for his joy in the little things, like racing turtles at fairs in Zack’s in Sausalito, and transforming cars for Baja racing. No garage sale could escape his curious eye, as he was always on the lookout for hidden treasures. A kind, gentle soul, and a man whose hands were always busy creating, building, and caring for the world around him, Richard will be dearly missed. His legacy of love, laughter, and creativity lives on in all of us. Rest in peace, Dad, Grandpa, Great grandpa. Your stories, your spirit, and your love for life will remain with us forever. Richard was survived by children Richard Hobbs Jr, Jamie Hobbs, Teresa Hobbs, Kathleen Qualls, Sherry Larrabure [D], Sally Hobbs, and Jefferey Hobbs, 15 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren. Richard’s celebration of life will be held Sunday, December 29, 2024 from 1-3pm at Veterans Memorial Building, located at 130 Placerville Drive, Placerville, CA 95667.

Eric Gregory Jaramishian

Jan. 5, 1996 – Nov. 25, 2024

Eric Gregory Jaramishian was born on January 5, 1996 in Fresno, CA. He went to be with his Lord & Savior on November 25, 2024. After graduating from Bullard High School, he attended Fresno City College and CSU, Sacramento where he wrote for The Rampage and The State Hornet school newspapers. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and went to work for the Mountain Democrat newspaper in Placerville. He loved his job as Senior Staff Writer. Eric’s many hobbies included hiking, fishing, running, photography, cooking, and going to music concerts. He liked all music from classic rock to country to John Williams. He enjoyed Rams football and Sacramento Kings basketball. He loved being outdoors and partaking in the many activities of his foothill community, including rafting, floating and paddle boarding. He was strong in his Christian faith, attending Arcade Church in Sacramento and Green Valley Community Church in Placerville. He enjoyed participating in Bible Studies and the Young Adult group activities. He will be remembered for his funny, quick wit. He was loving, had a kind heart and a giving spirit. He would be the first to lend a helping hand if you needed anything. His friends describe him as the ring leader who gathered everyone together, a best friend, a big brother, a little brother and an old soul. Above all, Eric loved, and was loved by, his family. His energy would light up the room. He was an amazing son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin. He was always there for his family. He will be missed beyond words. He is survived by his father Gregory, mother Leslie, sister Adriana, grandmother Pat Aharonian, and many uncles, aunts and cousins. A Memorial/ Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 11:00 am at Pilgrim Armenian Congregational Church, 3673 N. First St., Fresno, CA 93726

Wayne Earl Carlson Sept. 13, 1964 – Nov. 19, 2024

Wayne Earl Carlson, born in Ohio on September 13, 1964, passed away on November 19, 2024, in Placerville, California. Wayne’s life was a testament to service, dedication, and love for his family and friends. As a young man, he proudly served in the United States Army, spending cherished time overseas in Germany. Upon returning home, he faced the profound loss of his mother to breast cancer, a moment that shaped his resilience and strength. Wayne built a fulfilling career as a driver and merchandiser for retail companies, where his work ethic and commitment were widely respected. Known for his intelligence, humor, and fairness, Wayne touched the lives of many with his warmth and wisdom. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dusty Carlson, who stood by his side through life’s journey. Wayne’s legacy continues through his children: daughters Brandi Albon and Holly Munich, and son Michael from his first family, as well as daughters Madalyn Faith, Amanda Lynn, and Jacquelyn from his second family. He was a proud grandfather, affectionately known as Papa Wayne, to numerous grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life. Wayne is also survived by his brother Russ and two half-sisters, all of whom cherished their time with him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, as he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. A Celebration of Life will be held on January 30th at 1:00 pm at GreenValley Church in Placerville, followed by a reception. Wayne’s memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him, as he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and strength.

Victor Bari

April 11, 1947 – Nov. 17, 2024

Victor was born in Kassel, Germany in 1947 to his parents Elisabeth Gussakowsky & Basil Prichodko. Vic, his mother & brother immigrated to the U.S. & settled in Ojai, CA., where he graduated in 1964 from Nordhoff High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp. He was stationed in Viet Nam, completing 2 tours. In 1971, he was stationed in Sacramento, as a recruiter; met his wife of 51 years Nikki Bacchi. He was re-assigned to Iwakuni, Japan for 2 years. In 1974, Vic was stationed at Camp Lejeune. In 1976, he left the U.S. Marine Corp, moved to Ft. Klamath, OR. and remained on active reserves for the ANG. In 1985, he re-joined the military with the Oregon Air National, Kingsley Airfield, OR. In 1994, after 28 yrs of service he retired as a Vehicle Control Analysis Supervisor. Followed by working at West One Auto Center in Klamath Falls. In 2001, they move to California to be near family. Vic opened Bari’s Automotive. Victor and Nathan worked side by side for 18 years. He was an active partner in Bari Ranch and Livestock. Victor had a very colorful and fulfilling life & was beloved by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Nikki Bari, children, Leslie Davis, Christin & Darren Johnson, Jonathan & Jeanette Bari, Nathan & Jessica Bari, grandchildren: LeAnn & Casey Billen, Renae Davis, Colmynn & Winki Johnson, Collin & Sierra Johnson, Jacob Bari, Jarrod Bari, Nathan, Jr. Bari, Annie Bari & Emmitt Bari; and numerous great grandchildren.

Helen Michiko Ikenoyama

Oct 29, 1934 - Nov 5, 2024

Helen Michiko Ikenoyama passed away peacefully at her home in Placerville, CA, on November 5, 2024, at the age of 90. Preceded in death by her loving husband, Hideo, of 67 years; parents, Yasukichi and Harumi Abe, and 9 older siblings. She is survived by her children, Joyce (Mike) Joy and James (Lisa) Ikenoyama, and four beloved grandchildren: Hana (Max) Mizel, Aki (Anju) Joy, Kobi, and Niko. A long-time resident of Sacramento who loved eating crab, going to the casino, and spending time with her family. Helen will be remembered as a devoted wife, a loving mother, a doting grandmother, and a cherished sister, aunt, and friend. As a child, Helen was Interned at Tule Lake during World War II. She went on to graduate from Marysville High School and Yuba College. At the age of 18, she started at McCurry’s (Camera & Hallmark) Co as a “Friday Girl”, not knowing she would advance to become their Controller over a remarkable 47-year tenure. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her memory will remain a source of inspiration to all whose lives she enriched. We welcome you to honor her life with us at Sacramento Buddhist Church, 2401 Riverside Blvd. on Wednesday, 12/18, 12:00 pm.

Melba Jean Ray Leal

Sept. 4, 1941 – Nov. 27, 2024

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Melba Jean Ray Leal. Living most of her life in Diamond Springs California, Melba was a strong and passionate person and was involved in many movements and positive changes in the community. As a devout Catholic she spent a lot of time growing and promoting the Mother Teresa Maternity Home, and dedicated many hours to praying for and helping others. Melba loved horses and was deeply involved in the Pony Express, clearing and restoring the old rider trails. Melba had a heart of gold and a steadfast disposition. She is survived by her son Gerald Leal Jr, grandchildren Harry Plummer, Jessica Wilkinson, and Eli Leal, and her great grandchildren Gavin Plummer, Jessilyn Wilkinson, and Kimber Plummer. Service for Melba Jean Ray Leal will be held on December 18, 2024 at 11 a.m. It will be held at St. Patricks Church located at 3109 Sacramento St. Placerville CA, 95667.

EDH Town Center lights up

the Holy Trinity Catholic School Choir members gather for a

before their wonderful performance at the tree lighting ceremony.

EL DORADO SHERIFF’S OFFICE CRIME LOG

The following information was taken from El Dorado County sheriff's reports: Dec. 1

2:38 a.m.

a 34-year-old woman suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. She was later released.

8:37 a.m. Vandalism reported on Bruce Court in Cool.

10:48 a.m. Battery reported on

on Racquet Way in Diamond Springs. He was later released.

1:44 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 35-year-old woman suspected of trespassing on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. She was later released.

7:37 p.m. Battery reported on Bunker Hill Road in Shingle Springs.

8:17 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 36-year-old woman suspected of DUI on Highway 50 at Bass Lake Road in El Dorado Hills. She was later released.

Dec. 2

12:32 a.m. Deputies issue a citation after responding to a suspicious vehicle report at a pharmacy on Green Valley Road in Cameron Park.

1:29 a.m. Trespassing reported at a gas station on Highway 49 in Placerville.

3:01 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of DUI, driving on a suspended license, trespassing, shoplifting and possession of a controlled substance on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $90,000 bail.

9:22 a.m. Vandalism reported on Vogelsang Lane in Placerville.

4:52 p.m. Trespassing reported on Hawk View Road in El Dorado Hills.

5:40 p.m. Trespassing reported at a store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

5:42 p.m. Trespassing reported on Gold Leaf Lane in Placerville.

7:17 p.m. Battery reported on Heritage Drive in Diamond Springs.

Dec. 3

12:22 a.m. Trespassing reported at the casino on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville.

1:31 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 35-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and Illegal drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed knife and loitering on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was released on $15,000 bail.

4:40 a.m. Battery reported at the post office on Carson Road in Camino.

9:28 a.m. Deputies issued a citation after a vehicle stop at a park on Lotus Road in Lotus.

9:54 a.m. Battery reported on Courtside Drive in Diamond Springs.

1:06 p.m. Vandalism reported on Highway 50 in Kyburz.

2:49 p.m. Trespassing reported on Faith Lane in Diamond Springs.

3:13 p.m. Deputies issued a citation after responding to a suspicious subject report on Golden Center Drive in Placerville.

5:13 p.m. Deputies made an arrest after responding to a suspicious subject report at a business on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

7:50 p.m. Trespassing reported at a saloon on Cameron Park Drive in Cameron Park.

8:25 p.m. Battery reported at the casino on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville.

9:22 p.m. Trespassing reported on Idle Creek Drive in Shingle Springs.

9:42 p.m. Battery reported at a hotel on Main Street in Georgetown.

10:43 p.m. Trespassing reported on Powers Drive in El Dorado Hills.

10:58 p.m. Vandalism reported on Pepper Lane in Shingle Springs. Dec. 4

8:34 a.m. Deputies issued a citation after a vehicle stop on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

11:48 a.m. Vandalism reported on Reservoir Road in Georgetown.

1:10 p.m. Burglary reported on Deer Oaks Road in Rescue.

1:45 p.m. Battery reported on Highway 50 at Silva Valley Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

1:50 p.m. Grand theft reported at a facility on Golden Center Drive in Placerville.

2:41

2:45

6:44

6:55

Photos by Laurie Edwards

The Christmas spirit came to El Dorado Hills Town Center on Dec. 7 with the annual tree lighting and holiday celebration. People lined Town Center Boulevard, where they enjoyed live music, delicious treats and Santa Claus’ grand arrival with the El Dorado Hills Fire Department. Top photo, Santa waves to the festive crowd of families, friends and neighbors while making his way to the stage, where he and Mrs. Claus lit town center’s Christmas tree. Santa’s cheerful elves, above right, hand out candy canes to the children during the Saturday evening event. Above left,

photo

EID welcomes new directors, plans more improvements

Dawn Hodson Mountain Democrat correspondent

New members of the El Dorado Irrigation District Board of Directors were officially sworn in on Dec. 9 as El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf administered the oath of office to Paul Penn, Alan Day and Chuck Mansfield.

New board officers were also chosen with Pat Dwyer elected president and Lori Anzini as vice-president. Sitting in the audience to wish them well were family members and outgoing Directors George Osborne and Brian Veerkamp.

A meeting full of hellos and goodbyes, the agency also took time to recognize several employees who were retiring, all of whom have had long and productive careers with EID and were acknowledged for their many contributions to the water agency and the community over several decades of service.

On hand to discuss a different issue were members of the Strawberry Fire Safe Council. Angel

Ball, president of the Council, noted that over several years the community has invested considerable time and money in infrastructure improvements and residents appreciate the help they received both from EID and local fire agencies in making the community more fire safe.

However, she noted, she had recently

received an email and letter from EID staff that questioned who was responsible for infrastructure upgrades and the nature of the relationship between the council and EID. Other members of the council suggested some kind of written agreement was needed to formalize the partnership between the two organizations. In

response to their concerns, Director Dwyer asked General Manager Jim Abercrombie to bring the issue back before the board with recommended actions. Approved by the board was spending $59,000 for the Reservoir 1 and Pollock Pines Reservoir Replacement Project. Previously the Bridlewood Reservoir 4 and Reservoir 7A tanks

were identified as the next tanks to be rehabilitated and recoated per EID’s 2024-28 Capital Improvement Plan. The funding request is for additional capitalized labor to move the work along to completion.

The board also approved accepting grant funding of $240,187 for the Sly Park Boat Launching Facilities Upgrade

Project. The purpose of the project is to update and expand both the Doolittle and Stonebraker boat launching facilities within the Sly Park Recreation Area to better serve the boating and angling communities as use of the facilities continues to grow.

The Doolittle Boat Launch Facility improvements include widening the boat ramp so there are three launch lanes when the water level is low, replacing the vault restroom with an ADA-compliant restroom, adding an ADA-compliant vehicletrailer parking stall, installing a fish cleaning station and adding animal resistant garbage enclosures along with other improvements. The Stonebraker Boat Launch Facility improvements include widening the boat ramp upper turnaround, replacing the vault restroom with an ADAcompliant restroom, installing a fish cleaning station, adding animal resistant garbage enclosures and other improvements.

Tree mortality surveys are out: What they mean for Lake Tahoe

Katelyn Welsh Tahoe Daily Tribune

Each year aerial observers for the USDA Forest Service ride in small fixed-wing aircraft 1,000 feet above California forests. Their focus isn’t on the views or the horizon, but rather downward. Their trained eyes are looking for the yellow or red-brown of dried or discolored foliage. It’s their job to observe, survey and report conifer and hardwood mortality, defoliation and other damage.

once and once only,” said Jeffrey Moore, the Forest Service’s aerial survey program manager.

In addition to noting the mortality and forest damage locations, they also note several other factors, including the damage type, affected forest area percentage and severity, impacted tree species, as well as the probable damage-causing agent.

“The idea is to map all dead trees

“We call it recent mortality,” and he explained, “much of it actually died the previous year.” It often takes several months for the foliage to dry out and turn that red or yellow. The dead foliage eventually grays out or falls off and gets considered older mortality and no longer gets mapped.

Forest land managers use the annual mortality data to plan harvests in order to salvage recently killed trees or trees in beetle-threatened areas before the beetles can get to them.

It isn’t just land managers who find the data useful. Others use it for research, fire behavior forecasting, invasive insect and disease monitoring and much more.

The reports are split into six different regions across the state. The region incorporating the Lake Tahoe Basin is the northeastern area where they’ve found elevated mortality in recent years. However, this year, observers recorded 439,000 acres of mortality, which is less than the five-year annual average of 730,000 acres.

Within this area, observers found White and California red fir mortality was the most common, mapping approximately 340,000 acres. The report notes the mortality was particularly extensive and intense in the Tahoe National Forest.

Other tree mortality found around Lake Tahoe impacted high-elevation five-needle pine (western white and whitebark pine). Over the entire northeastern survey region, they mapped 7,100 acres of high-elevation five-needle pine mortality.

The local Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit (LTBMU) of the Forest Service uses these surveys to

confirm local observations and recent trends in their data.

“After several years of drought, we’ve seen an increase in forest pathogens, such as fir engraver and bark beetles, especially in years with warm winters,” LTBMU vegetation management staff officer Victor Lyon reported.

Lyon explained that drought reduces a tree’s ability to pitch out beetles with sap. The warm winters allow additional breeding cycles for beetles. Beetle numbers typically take a couple of years to decline after a wet winter, like that of 2022-23.

Forest density is also a contributing factor when it comes to increased populations of fir engraver and bark beetles. LTBMU is working to reduce forest density in many areas around the Lake Tahoe Basin, with a focus on areas with elevated tree mortality and in proximity to the wildland-urban interface.

Forest density issues aren’t just a problem for the Lake Tahoe Basin. “Many forests in California and throughout the west are unhealthy due to fire exclusion leading to overcrowded conditions,” Moore said. “Too many trees need more water than is available.”

Thinning, treating and prescribed burning are current Forest Service objectives around the state.

The aerial survey reports are available publicly on the Forest Service’s website. The service is primarily interested in biotic and other abiotic mortality agents and activity with these reports, so mortality from fires is not included. These are preliminary reports with raw data and is subject to change as they further refine the reports. Moore said this preliminary data may be somewhat inflated. Edited reports will become available early next year.

Photo by Jesse Saich

EID Directors Paul Penn, Alan Day and Charles Mansfield take the oath of office Monday, Dec. 9. They were sworn in by El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf.

demolition

Taco Bell

began early Thursday, Dec. 12.

when

were

Old Taco Bell toppling temporarily tied up

Odin Rasco Senior staff writer

Considered a nuisance and an eyesore by locals for years, the demolition of the building formerly known as the Pollock Pines Taco Bell was held up early Thursday, Dec. 12, when a gas line was accidentally severed.

Shortly after 8 a.m. Thursday, a fire crew from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District had already arrived at the scene and began cordoning off a perimeter in case the gas leak accidentally sparked a Baja Blast. Because the gas pipe was “sheared off,” according to a firefighter on the scene, there was no expedient way to safely cut off the flow of propane, leading to an hourslong delay in the demolition.

“I just really wanted to see those last two walls come down,” said Kimberly Collier-McCarthy, who has been following county efforts to deal with the building. “This is a big deal and we’ve waited a long time to get here.”

The fast food restaurant was closed in 2018 and has been vacant since. Though the deed changed hands multiple times since the closure, the building was left to the whims of nature and neglect for some time,

becoming the repeat target of vandalism and broken windows; evidence found in the building in late January 2023, including a discarded mattress, indicated the location had also been used as a shelter for unhoused individuals.

One owner, Kilo Watt Investments LLC, a Wyoming-based company, acquired the property in 2020 but did not address complaints about property upkeep, ultimately accruing more than $11,000 in fines from the county; according to county representatives, multiple attempts at communication from the county were left unanswered.

A new owner, whose identity was not made clear, acquired the property in 2023 and shared plans with county staff indicating a plan to renovate the space and reopen it as a restaurant by June 2024. If the renovations had taken place, the county had agreed to waive all fees which had accrued on the property. Those plans never bore fruit, however; hot sauce was not the only heat brought to the derelict eatery after the building caught fire in a suspected arson in September 2023. Though delayed, the demolition of the building was completed before noon, with multiple Pollock Pines locals taking to social media to celebrate the destruction.

Family searching for missing Placerville man

Odin Rasco Senior staff writer

Friends and family are on the lookout for any information regarding the location of Stephen Perry Robbins, better known as Stevie, who has been missing for several days.

STEPHEN ROBBINS

Robbins was last seen by family members Sunday, Dec. 8, on Clay Street in Placerville; attempts to contact him since have been met with dropped calls

and unanswered texts, according to family. Robbins has a pale complexion, short blonde hair and blue eyes; he is 31 years old, 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs about 120 pounds.

Anyone with any information related to Robbins’ location is asked to contact the Placerville Police Department at (530) 642-5280; the case number is 24-1859.

News release

Volunteer income tax counselors will be available at locations throughout El Dorado County Feb. 1 through April 15, 2025. The tax service availability is by appointment only. The American Association of Retired Persons and United Way, California Capital Region in conjunction with the Internal Revenue Service and the California Franchise Tax Board provide this service free to all ages, middle- and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to seniors. Electronic filing is available at all locations. This method ensures that returns are processed faster with fewer errors, providing for quicker refunds.

Starting Jan. 15, 2025, those desiring to use the service of the

Tax-Aide/VITA program should make an appointment to secure a date, time and location convenient for them. Appointments can be made online for El Dorado County at eldoradotaxes.org or call the phone number for the site where you wish to have an appointment: Placerville Senior Center call (530) 497-0380; Gold Country Senior Living in Placerville call (530) 3038115; Cameron Park Community Center call (530) 395-3101; Garden Valley Fire Department call (530) 235-6332; Pollock Pines call (530) 497-0368; Heritage El Dorado Hills call (209) 806-3822.

For more information about AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, including what type of service is available where and which documents you need to file your taxes, visit eldoradotaxes.org or call 1-888-227-7669.

Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco

After years as a neglected property, at times the target of vandalism, squatting and suspected arson,

of the former

off Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines

Destruction efforts

delayed

a gas line was accidentally destroyed during teardown efforts, according to staff from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District.

OPINION

California Commentary

The Gann Limit is back in the news

On the ﬁrst day of the new legislative session, Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, D-Anaheim, introduced Assembly Constitutional Amendment 1 (ACA 1). The proposal would double the amount of state funds that could be placed in the Budget Stabilization Account from 10% to 20% of the annual budget. The ostensible reason for the increase is to address the very real problem of revenue volatility. Because California is overly reliant on high-income earners who generate massive amounts of capital gains and stock option funds in boom years, it is vulnerable to big drop-o s in revenue during the bust years. Indeed, revenue volatility has been such a large problem that Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger created the California Commission for the 21st Century Economy to come up with solutions.

Regrettably, while there was a broad consensus that something should be done about the boom and bust cycle, the commissioners could not agree on what to do about it.

The goal of placing more funds in reserve because of volatility makes sense, if it can be accomplished without violating the letter and the spirit of Gann spending limit. Unfortunately, ACA 1, in its current form does just that. Here’s how.

There are better ways to address revenue volatility without injury to the goal of the Gann Spending Limit, which was enacted to provide a modicum of spending restraint in a state that doesn’t have any.

Just a year after Proposition 13’s passage in 1978, California voters approved the Gann spending limit which, like Prop. 13, sought to restrain the size and growth of government. But unlike Proposition 13, which was a direct limit on taxation, Gann attempted to limit government spending. It limited the growth of state and local government expenditures to a base-year level adjusted annually to reﬂect increases in population and inﬂation.

Initially, the Gann limit performed as designed and resulted in a modest rebate to taxpayers in 1987. But subsequent measures backed by special interests weakened the Gann limit by creating exceptions for education and transportation spending as well as substituting a far more generous inﬂation factor.

Ironically, after these changes, most public finance observers — including yours truly — wrongfully assumed that California would never again bump up against the limit. But a big surplus in fiscal year 2022-23 put the state on the brink of reaching that limit. While that collision was briefly avoided due to COVID-19, California once again is confronted with a Gann issue that can no longer

■ See COUPAL, page A7

Letters to the Editor

Go beyond social media

EDITOR:

What impact has social media had on political activism, and does this development contribute to the reforms activists want to see?

There are various ways social media can a ect setting up, so a call to action stresses the necessity to think critically and take responsibility for your actions. Things that are broken or have been broken for a long time can’t be ﬁxed by the internet alone. In fact, technology should not replace o ine projects, but rather make them better.

An activist’s call to action underscores the necessity of critical thought and taking personal responsibility in addressing the intricacies of social media’s inﬂuence on activism. Systemic issues and enduring change cannot be handled merely through social media. It should augment — not supplant — o ine initiatives.

Liberals assert that social media serves as a potent instrument for democracy by amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and enabling activists to bypass traditional gatekeepers (Freelon, McIlwain, and Clark 2018). To realize its full potential, activists must prioritize substantive participation both online and o ine,

endorse local e orts, partake in local conversations and advocate for policy reforms.

Conservatives caution against too much reliance on digital tools, stressing the importance of grassroots initiatives and ongoing, tangible e orts. By having sincere, respectful relationships and cross-sectoral partnership, activists may go beyond social media’s limitations and inﬂuence real change.

Social media activity clearly reﬂects a doubleedged blade as the BLM movement has demonstrated. Via hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter and viral footage of police violence, institutional racism and police misbehavior attracted worldwide attention. People were able to share their tales, unite and hold institutions accountable by interacting online (Freelon, McIlwain, and Clark 2018). Critics counter that social media contributed to more polarization by means of inﬂuence. Algorithms often drive people into “echo chambers,” where they only read points of view that support their own ideas, in their quest of outstanding material (Ince, Rojas, and Davis 2017). Sometimes more complex dialogues were drowned out by angry and aggressive messages within BLM, shutting o possible allies and

California Matters

Officials plan for dry 2025 with grim water supply guesswork

Each December there’s a new version of an old guessing game about how much water will be provided to agricultural and municipal users in the year ahead. Federal and state water agencies post initial, and usually very low, estimates based on the current condition of reservoirs, soil conditions that a ect runo and assumptions of rain and snow during the winter and spring. Over the next few months, the estimates are upgraded as ﬁrmer precipitation data accumulates, often — but not always — increasing. For 2022, as drought gripped California, the state Department of Water Resources initially projected zero water deliveries, later raised

them to 15% of the contracted supplies but ﬁnally delivered just 5%.

One year later, however, the department initially promised 5%, but after a very wet winter ﬁnally delivered 100%. This year began with a 10% estimate of state water supply and ended with 40%.

The huge swings in initial allocations and ﬁnal deliveries are an obvious headache for the 29 local and regional water purveyors supplied by the state water system, serving some 29 million people. Do the public water agencies impose strict conservation on their customers in years with low initial projections, try to obtain supplemental supplies, take a chance that eventual deliveries will be higher or all of the above?

The annual guessing game would be more accurate if the state had done what it should have done decades ago — developed more storage capacity, either in reservoirs or aquifers, that could be lled in wet years and cushion the impact of drought.

The annual game resumed last week, when the Department of Water Resources announced an initial 2025 estimate of just 5%.

“Based on long-range forecasts and the possibility of a La Niña year, the State Water Project is planning for a dry 2025 punctuated by extreme storms like we’ve seen in late November,” department Director Karla Nemeth notes in a statement.

“We need to prepare for any scenario, and this early in the season we need to take a conservative approach to managing our water supply. Our wettest months of the season are still to come.

“What we do know is that we

started the water year following record heat this summer and in early October that parched the landscape. We must account for dry soils in our State Water Project allocation planning and our runo forecasts for the spring.”

That’s a fairly grim scenario that may already be outdated because it was made without counting the heavy rains and snows that hit the state in late November.

“These storms will be taken into account along with other variables for future allocation updates. Prior to these storms, the start of the water

JON COUPAL

DAN WALTERS

Continued from A6

be ignored. For taxpayers, the best outcome would be to let the Gann limit run its course and return money to taxpayers “by a revision of tax rates or fee schedules within the next two subsequent ﬁscal years.” Cal. Const., Art. XIIIB, Section 2(a)(2). This is consistent with the plain language of Gann and is more than warranted given California’s heavy tax burden. But ACA 1 might prevent taxpayer refunds due to the change in treatment of transfers into the budget stabilization account. Under Gann, the state and local governments may create reserve accounts, like the BSA, but those transfers are subject to Gann’s spending limits. On the other hand, spending out of a reserve account is not so limited. As currently drafted, it appears that ACA 1 would exempt transfers out of the reserve account

Continued from A6

intensuating the resistance. This emphasizes the need of responsible communication and the need of emphasizing areas of agreement to support peace and e ective debate.

One of the main issues with social media activism is the growing “slacktivism” — engagement deﬁned as liking posts or sharing hashtags on social media without taking meaningful action. Although these actions can bring attention to a

— currently permissible under Gann — but would also exempt appropriations into the BSA: Section (i) provides, “Transfers to the Budget Stabilization Account pursuant to this section do not constitute appropriations subject to limitation as deﬁned in Article XIII B.” This appears to create a fund into which unlimited funds can be appropriated, guaranteeing that taxpayers will never get a refund of their tax dollars.

California taxpayers need something more than a rainy day fund that’s all slush.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

problem, they rarely result in real improvements (Morozov).

BRIDGET MAHER Folsom

year had been dry and warm,” department o cials said. It’s also noteworthy that after the spate of storms, California’s weather has returned to dry and warm.

Another factor in the guessing game is the status of reservoirs, not only the state’s Lake Oroville, but the multiple storage projects managed by the federal government, such as Lake Shasta, and those owned by cities and irrigation districts.

At the moment, the state’s reservoirs are generally above 100% of historic averages after a couple of relatively wet winters, which indicate that ultimate water deliveries will be higher than the low initial estimates, although how much higher is uncertain. Shasta is at 113% and Oroville at 109%.

The annual guessing game would be more accurate if the state had done what it should have done decades ago — developed more storage capacity, either in reservoirs or aquifers, that could be ﬁlled in wet years and cushion the impact of drought.

A couple of storage projects are under way, Sites Reservoir on the west side of the Sacramento Valley and an enlargement of the San Luis Reservoir in the Pacheco Pass west of Merced.

Much more is needed as climate change a ects the precipitation cycle.

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

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 rst 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 Sheri ’s o ce, 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

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.

Park. Meet rst 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 a ect 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.

Change ahead for Meyers with new aquatic invasive species inspection station and planning document

Eli Ramos Tahoe Daily Tribune

Meyers Advisory Council had its last meeting of the year on Dec. 3, discussing the new aquatic invasive species inspection station and rolling the Meyers Area Plan into the larger Tahoe El Dorado Area Plan. Both topics are deeply tied with the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency’s changes in policies over the last few years.

New AIS station

As the number of visitors to Tahoe grows every year, it’s clear that the current AIS station, located on the U.S. 50 roundabout, is undersized. Combatting the threat of invasive

species entering the lake is a major priority for TRPA, among other lake concerned groups, especially with the advent of the New Zealand mud snail and the golden mussel — both mollusks that could proliferate almost as fast as the visitor growth, to a disastrous degree.

The TRPA received grants from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Department to further investigate developing a facility in Meyers, which could double the capacity of vehicles inspected. The proposed site is public land that is within a Meyers neighborhood.

According to the council, the public workshops regarding the new site had good attendance and they have continued to welcome comment on the site as the process moves forward.

Construction on the proposed site would likely not start until 2027 at the earliest, but there are talks of building affordable or workforce housing on the site. That housing could be extended to county snowplow drivers or other workers in Meyers if it was successful. During the environmental analysis phase, they are investigating the possibility of building up to six units on site.

During the public comment section, one attendee asked why they couldn’t buy the current lot with the grants received, especially as the current site has all the equipment. However, the TRPA cannot own land, and the grants would not be eligible to be used for purchasing land. Additionally, there is no underground

infrastructure for tanks in the

space. The council also clarified that the housing that could be built would be year-round, but the facility would only be operational for six months of the year. However, at least one attendee was opposed to building housing, despite the fact that TRPA is now pushing for more affordable housing in the area. “Stick to what you know best — inspecting boats. And then build a station to inspect boats,” said the attendee.

End of the Meyers Area Plan

The Meyers Advisory Council largely exists because of the Meyers

n See MEYERS, page A9

student and EDHS freshman Jaxson Wagner. “It’s a lot of fun, and you feel amazing helping out and seeing all the kids coming out and having a nice time. I recommend it to everyone and I’ll probably do this all four years.”

The event, once a small effort with attendance from just a few students, has grown into a decades-spanning tradition. Woodshop students put great effort into the experience, working as hard, if not harder, than the elves that prep presents for Santa’s trip around the globe. In addition to the handmade pinball machines, mini golf, rocking horses — and

a rocking biplane with a spinning propeller!— EDHS students crafted wooden toy trains for every kindergartener who made the trip to Santa’s Toy Shop. Students from the 3D design class at EDHS, taught by Brigid Bourque, lent a hand by painting the toy trains before they were passed

around, and some of the high school’s band made an appearance at the event to play a selection of holiday hits. The tasty treats served were prepared by EDHS’s culinary students, making the event a collaboration that spanned multiple school departments and united students, staff and local supporters.

skills to give back in a meaningful way,” said Sisson. “It’s a beautiful reminder of the positive impact hands-on learning can have, not just in the classroom but in the community as well.”

The EDHS team expressed their thanks to local support, including community and board members from Camino and Gold Oak who assisted with decorating, as well as the El Dorado County Office of Education for providing lunch for the students on Friday.

“It’s great to see; when my students work hard for months to put this together, the culmination of that is seen at this event when you see the joy on the kids’ faces,” Gunnersen said. “I’ll often tell my students, this is about building a community, learning leadership skills and gaining industry standard skills that can help them get good-paying jobs along the way.”

El Dorado High School Principal Liz Sisson highlighted the event’s educational value.

“This tradition not only strengthens connections with local families but also allows our students to use their

Mountain Democrat photos by Andrew Vonderschmitt

The Mother Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises Client Choir’s caroling group visits Placerville’s Main Street to spread some holiday cheer on a recent cool day. Life Skills Manager Luanne McGowen said getting out into the community is

Placerville youngster Cayleigh took a ride on a wooden motorcycle at Santa’s Toy Shop Monday night.

current

Toy shop Continued from A1

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

El Dorado High School wood shop teacher — and Chief Elf — Lance Gunnersen, above left, greets visitors to the nighttime Santa's Toy Shop event Monday, Dec. 9. “This event is truly a team effort and a testament to the creativity, dedication and generosity of our students and community,” Gunnersen said. Above right, members of El Dorado High School's band performed at the nighttime event, playing a selection of holiday favorites.

— unanimously decided to appoint a replacement to serve the first two years of what would have been Hidahl’s term. On the 2026 general election ballot, candidates will face off for the chance to serve the remaining two years. Applications for the two-year appointment to the board are available on edhfire.com. The district is accepting letters of qualification or résumés from any individual interested in being selected for this vacancy. These documents must be submitted to the El Dorado Hills Fire Department at 1050 Wilson Blvd., El Dorado Hills, CA, 95762, or emailed to clerkoftheboard@edhfire.com prior

to 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 26, to be considered for appointment.

To be eligible, applicants must reside within the El Dorado Hills County Water District (EDH Fire) boundaries, be at least 18 years of age and be registered to vote within the district. The appointee will serve through December 2026. Applicants selected to move forward in the interview process will be notified no later than Monday, Dec. 30, and interviews will take place at a special meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 6, 2025. For more information about the EDH Fire board position call (916) 933-6623 or email clerkoftheboard@ edhfire.com.

Area Plan, and the council was told that its current form was no longer necessary due to the development of the TED Plan. The Meyers Area Plan was adopted in 2018 and aimed to improve transit, deliver on the Highway 89 corridor management plan, and provide affordable housing opportunities. With the TED area plan, which conducted public workshops earlier this year, they plan to roll those ideas into the TED. District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine has been especially involved with trying to get the Transit Occupancy Taxes funds back into the basin — now, roughly 80% of those funds do come back to the area. One of the major ways it returns is through purchasing important fire and snow equipment in the area.

On the topic of affordable housing, TED representatives clarified that they are planning on how to hit the affordable housing goals set by the TRPA, which is a major reason why the TED exists.

But Meyers demanded representation in the TED, especially in maintaining the character of their area and their close-knit communities. TED

representatives clarified that they would be trying to make decisions on how to delineate the unincorporated counties, especially after one attendee jokingly asked, “How far does Meyers go?”

Currently, parts of Meyers belong to CalTrans as it’s situated so close to the highway. Other parts belong to the county, and still others are more closely observed by TRPA. The TED is meant to clarify some of these borders as well, making it more simple to understand jurisdictions in the area.

The topic of who was responsible for who came up in discussions on parking — illegal, unsafe and off-street parking is a major concern for many in the area. This topic will likely be addressed at future meetings, given the conversations that closed out this advisory council.

Finally, Angie Reagan of Access Tahoe highlighted the need for more accessibility throughout Meyers, within transit, parking, and other relevant issues. Reagan tuned in online and also suggested that there be more online accessibility for those meetings.

The next Meyers Advisory Council meeting will be next year on Jan. 16.

TAURUS (April

GEMINI (May

each moment of attention count toward something greater.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You don’t have to know what someone’s problem is to know that it exists, though it’s not always worth getting into. One way to erase tension from your life is to simply walk away from the source. You are not the cause of this.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). A shift in perspective will open your heart to the people you don’t understand. You don’t have to understand someone to flow compassion their way. Laughable absurdity will abound, and your take will lift those around you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Manage your resources, but don’t be afraid to use them. Expect to misjudge it sometimes — use too much, apply it in the wrong direction, spill a little... but being hyper-vigilant would be worse, causing undue stress. Go easy instead.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You’ll take a break from your own problem to figure out someone else’s. It’s a rest for your mind, and

Hidahl

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Mountain Democrat photo by Noel Stack

El Dorado Hills Fire Department Director of Finance Jessica Braddock, left, swears in new fire board Directors Kevin Gotro, center, and Dan Donelli at the Dec. 9 meeting.

Courtesy photo

Meyers’ current AIS station, located on the U.S. 50 roundabout, is undersized for the amount of traffic that comes through.

Ordinance Continued from A1 agreed to take additional time to discuss the proposed rules before adopting them.

Neau explained she had concerns regarding the non-transferrable nature of the planned tobacco retail licenses; two local business owners with stores in operation for more than 20 years had spoken with her about their fears that they would not be able to hand their business down to their children when they chose to retire. Community Services Director Pierre Rivas, appearing in the role a final time — his retirement from the department was delayed as the city seeks a suitable replacement — confirmed that, as the ordinance is currently written, the licenses would not be transferrable in such a scenario.

As written, all stores currently selling tobacco or vape products would be grandfathered in and be allowed to acquire a license yearly, provided they do not exceed the number of allowable “strikes” (more on that later). New licenses would not be available for new businesses until the total number of licensed businesses drops below the set threshold either through closing or disqualification. The cap set by the ordinance is one license per 2,500 residents in the city; with Placerville’s population at about 10,650 by last count, the cap would be four licenses.

The conversation continued with concerns bouncing between council members; Neau expressed her concerns with the four-strike policy in the ordinance, saying it was too lenient, while newly elected Councillor Ryan Carter said he believed late application or payment for a license should not be counted as a strike-worthy offense. The discussion continued on for some time, with Mayor Clerici at one point joking toward the end he had forgotten if public comment had even been given for the agenda item because “it had been so long ago.”

Although materially very similar to an ordinance approved by the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors that imposes a cap and other limitations on tobacco retailers in unincorporated parts of the county, the city has had a far bumpier road to adoption.

“It’s funny. The county did this and nobody said boo, but we’ve tried to do it and immediately it was an issue,” Clerici said.

The ordinance was previously sent back to city staff for adjustments to double the fines imposed by noncompliance. The conversation at the council meeting Tuesday concluded with the decision to continue to a later date while alternative options are explored, with City Manager Cleve Morris proposing staff bring three alternative drafts before the council to provide options to consider.

PROSPECTING

Section B ■ mtdemocrat.com

IN THE KNOW

Now

Santa is busy getting ready for the holiday season and his elves will be delivering your Christmas wish lists to the North Pole through Dec 15. Santa would love to hear from all his friends in El Dorado Hills and promises to return letters.

Letters to Santa can be mailed or dropped o at the holiday mailbox located outside of the El Dorado Hills Community Services District pavilion building. In your letter, please include a stamped and self-addressed envelope so Santa can respond.

See “The Gift: A Holiday Show,” directed by Chrissie Addison, at the Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park through Dec. 15. For tickets, showtimes and more information go to stageatburke.com/thegift.

Broadway Sacramento presents “Elf – The Musical” at the UC Davis Health Pavilion through Dec. 15. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

The hit musical “Hadestown” comes to the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom through Dec. 15. Enjoy a brilliant reimagining of the story of Orpheus and Eurydice which won multiple Tony Awards in 2019. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

City Theatre at Sacramento City College presents “A Christmas Carol, The Rock & Roll Panto” through Dec. 15. For tickets and more information go to citytheatre.net.

Imagination Theatre at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents “Miracle on 34th Street” through Dec. 22. For tickets and more information go to itplacerville.org.

The Olde Coloma Theatre presents “Mrs. Waldecott and the Christmas Spirits” ... or ... “The Coloma Christmas Speck-tacular” 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.

The Polar Express has returned to the California Railroad Museum for a limited time, and guests can purchase a ticket now to save their seat on one of the trips, running through Dec. 22. For tickets and more information visit californiarailroad.museum.

Sutter Street Theatre presents “Holiday in the Hills,” an original script and the theater’s love letter to the holiday season, through Dec. 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

The Elf on the Boulevard scavenger hunt at El Dorado Hills Town Center runs through Dec. 24. The elf might be hiding around any participating businesses, so make sure to stop in and see if you can spot it.

B Street Theatre presents “A Christmas Carol” at The So a in Sacramento through Dec. 29. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre. org.

Dec. 13

Holiday Carriage Rides,

Hangtown Christmas Parade entries enchant spectators, judges

Mimi

Escabar

Special Sections Editor

Santa Claus was thrilled to be in Placerville for the 46th Hangtown Christmas Parade presented by Hangtown Christmas Parade Inc. The bright sunny day and the welcoming crowd along the parade route made his trip to gold country very enjoyable. The parade-perfect day featured 210 entries that impressed the spectators along Broadway and Main Street and the parade judges at the Bell Tower.

The El Dorado County Professional Fire Honor Guard led the procession followed by Cub Scout Troop 88, El Dorado County Sheri Je Leikauf and Undersheri Bryan Golmitz, various vehicles from El Dorado County Search and Rescue, CHP cars, Cal Fire vehicles and other local ﬁrst responder vehicles.

Parade Grand Marshal Stacie Walls, El Dorado County/ Placerville Coordinator of Toys for Tots, arrived in style with Rich Peters, coordinator from Calaveras County, and Matthew Vidosh, coordinator from Placer County on a ﬂoat with a Toys for Tots theme.

Raggedy Ann was also on the ﬂoat, reminding everyone that a Raggedy Ann Doll was the ﬁrst gift from Toys for Tots.

The Gordon Vicini Fire Truck, always a parade favorite, entertained everyone with carols on the calliope. A real crowd pleaser was the ﬂoat carrying 2024 Miss El Dorado County Elizabeth Wiley and her royal court. In keeping with the theme of A Toy Story, the royalty was framed in a Barbie theme.

More royalty was aboard the ﬂoat carrying 2024 El Dorado Rose Sandra Hand, her court and past Roses. Rising Star Pageant’s ﬂoat featured 2024 Ms. Rising Star Kathy Hansen, Young Miss Rising Star Gianna Kirby and Rising Star Princesses Alice Galbraith and Emily Wetzel. This is a pageant for individuals with disabilities ages 0 to 100.

Earning a perfect score with bubbles filling the air, toys everywhere, charming decorations and plenty of sheep, goats and other animals the Pleasant Valley Grange No. 675 came in first in the float category. Lava Cap Winery’s float creatively used wine barrels, toys and costumed riders to win second place. Third place went to Placerville Church of the Nazarene with a Bell Tower, nativity scene, tree and presents. Golden Girls of the Foothills

won first place in the Senior Horse Rider category. Santelios Services won first place in the Riding Groups category. Two entries in the Marching Band category — Edwin Markham School and the combine musicians from the El Dorado Union High School District — tied for first place. The clever robot with candy canes created by the El Dorado Union High School District Robotics Circuit Breakers won first in the Walking Units. Second place went to the cheering Union Mine Jr.

Photos by Shelly Thorene

Gordon Vicini, left, drives a vintage fire truck outfitted with a calliope to the delight of children gathered for the Hangtown Christmas Parade. The entry took first in the Fire Equipment category.

The Highway 50 Wagon Train Association, above, rolls down Main Street during the parade, snagging first in the Horse Drawn Vehicle category. The Union Mine High School FFA Farm Power Team members, below, drive three Farmall Cub tractors, which they helped to restore, in the parade on Sunday.

Enjoy cheer at Holiday on Omo

Mimi Escabar Special Sections Editor

Afood and wine celebration is taking place Saturday, Dec. 14, from noon to 4 p.m. at the wineries on and by Omo Ranch Road.

The colder days heading into winter are a lovely time to head to south county for warm hospitality and a chance to enjoy fabulous wines, tasty treats, music and festive shopping.

Holiday on Omo is happening at the Chaney Family Winery, Château d’ Estienne, Mirador Winery and Lost Arrow Ranch, Golden Leaves Vineyard & Winery and Mellowood Vineyard.

Chaney Family Winery, 8175 Fairplay Road, offers red wine hot toddies, holiday sweet treats, holiday music and a chance to meet the winemaker.

Château d’ Estienne, 2700 Omo Ranch Road, invites everyone to experience the magic of Christmas with a delightful tasting journey and hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy special holiday discounts on select wine gifts, up to 15% off on all other purchases and 20% off a case. Don’t miss the exclusive port experience, featuring a glass of port paired with a special holiday dessert, available for purchase at $15 per person.

Golden Leaves Vineyard & Winery, 3625 Omo Ranch Road, offers relaxing on the deck or in the spacious tasting room with background blues and jazz. Visitors can enjoy the award-winning Angelica dessert wine served warm with holiday treats. Take a walk in the vineyard and chat with the owner/ winemaker.

Mellowood Vineyard, 2979 Mellowood Drive, home to the only Kenyan winery owners in the Sierra foothills, has live music by Tom Power, market vendors (including Alpacas of Eldorado and Perry Creek Walnuts), hot mulled wine with candied nuts and other holiday treats. There is indoor seating in the charming country tasting room and outdoor seating on the patio or in the picnic grove under the oaks overlooking the syrah vineyard. Mirador Winery, 2501 Omo Ranch Road, has created an experience for those who want to deepen their knowledge of wine while discovering the region in a relaxing setting. Enjoy a free Holiday Wine Paloma cocktail while learning the importance of the terroir, the history of the vines and the techniques used during the wine making

Performances highlight the stories behind your favorite songs

FOLSOM — The legendary music of Nashville is coming to Folsom in the form of Nashville Songwriters Live: Performances And Stories Of Your Favorite Hit Songs, a unique celebrity entertainment event on Dec. 17 that also acts as a benefit event for local nonprofit Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference. Featuring songwriters Jeffrey Steele, Mark Mackay and CJ Solar, who have written songs for charttopping artists including Keith Urban, Eric Church, Zac Brown Band and Morgan Wallen, the audience will experience an intimate, acoustic performance format where the writers play the music and tell the stories behind the songs, providing a unique and personal experience.

Mackay, a California native and classic rock/country songwriter, shared, “Jeffrey Steele and CJ Solar are two of the most talented artists I’ve ever known, and a huge

inspiration on my own music. Last year we had the best time performing together and sharing our stories, jamming and laughing all night. We do this a lot in Nashville, so in

Santa Santa

a way last year was our west coast intro to how powerful this show is, and we can’t wait to do it again. Even better, we’ll be supporting the great work of Hands4Hope.”

The artists If you’ve sung along to chart-toppers like “What Hurts the Most,” “My Town”

Family bonds tested in Sutter Street’s holiday performance

Allen Schmeltz Sutter Street Theatre

FLaura Ingalls Wilder Christmas” brings its warmth to Sutter Street Theatre, opening Dec. 13. In their poorest winter ever, when the crops have been devastated by locusts and the family must deal with the death of baby Freddie, Charles Ingalls backtracks his family to Burr Oak, Iowa, to take over the running of a hotel. And if things weren’t bad enough, Ma tells Laura she must be nice to Johnny Steadman, “the worst boy in Iowa.”

When wealthy Mrs. Starr asks for Laura as a companion to read to her in the afternoons, Laura is overjoyed to be invited into such a fine house, but when she overhears Mrs. Starr offer to adopt Laura as her own daughter to ease the burden of so many children, Laura is certain that Ma and Pa will give her up. As Christmas morning approaches, Laura is faced with a decision: Will she choose what she believes is best for the family or will she find a way to stay with Pa, Ma, Mary and Carrie?

This original play presents the poignant story of the “missing”

two years in the life of the Ingalls family — the only substantial period that Laura chose not to write about in her Little House books. Told with period songs, humor and depth of character, ”A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas” shares a story of healing that celebrates the importance of enduring

family bonds. The show runs Dec. 13-29 with showtimes at 4 p.m. Fridays, 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays and 4 p.m. performances Dec. 18 & 19 at Sutter Street Theatre, 717 Sutter St. in Folsom. For reservations go to SutterStreetTheatre.com or call (916) 353-1001.

Mountain Democrat photo by Mimi Escabar

The vineyards at Mirador Winery await. Admire their beauty during the Holiday on Omo event, during which guests will enjoy fabulous wines, tasty treats, music and festive shopping.

Courtesy photos

Jeffrey Steele, above, is the songwriter behind hits “What Hurts the Most,”

Town” and “The Cowboy in Me.” CJ Solar, at right, has worked with country greats like Morgan Wallen and Jaemson Rodgers.

Photo by Allen Schmeltz

The Ingalls family, as portrayed by actors Chelsea Miller, John Hopkins, Natalie Aguiar, back row from left, and Avery Miller and Elizabeth Old, front row from left, stick together despite hardship in “A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas.”

Emmanuel Church opening kicks off a holiday tradition

News release

California State Parks welcomes in the holidays with Christmas in Coloma at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, 300 Back St. in Coloma, on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14 & 15. The park will also host a ribbon cutting at the recently renovated Emmanuel Church on Saturday, Dec. 14, at 9 a.m. The church is located at 376 Church St. in Coloma.

The church has been closed to the public since 2015 for safety repairs. Built in 1855, the Emmanuel Church is the first Episcopal Church built in California. Funeral services for James Marshall, the man who discovered gold in Coloma, were held at this church. It has also hosted more than 1,300 weddings. The restoration project cost approximately $3 million. The church will be a stop on the historical house tour during the event.

Community members, families and out-of-town guests are invited to visit Marshall Gold Discovery SHP, to enjoy traditional family-oriented holiday activities and explore the historical buildings at the park. Carriage rides, warming fires and holiday music will set the mood for holiday shopping with local vendors. Kids young and old will be entertained by Victorian era games and holiday crafts. For those looking to add to their holiday decorations, fresh greens, ribbons and bows will be available for wreath making with a donation to the

or “The Cowboy in Me,” you already know Steele’s work. With countless hits penned for some of the biggest names in country music — from Rascal Flatts and Tim McGraw to Faith Hill — Steele has a rare talent for capturing real stories, deep emotions, and true country grit in every lyric he writes.

Ever wonder who’s behind some of your favorite country hits like “Up Down” by Morgan Wallen or “Some Girls” by Jameson Rodgers? Meet Solar, the Nashville-based singersongwriter bringing a fresh edge to country music. With a rock-infused sound and a knack for storytelling, Solar has quickly made his mark, writing songs that resonate with fans nationwide.

Mackay, the country-rock sensation who turns heads with his electrifying guitar skills and authentic songwriting, is known for his energetic live shows and the raw, relatable stories in his lyrics. Mackay has shared the stage with legends like Blake Shelton and Eli Young Band.

Gold Discovery Park Association.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without Santa. The jolly old fellow will be on hand both days from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to listen to requests and for holiday photos.

Fourteen historical buildings in the park, including the Emmanuel Church, have been decorated for the holidays and will be open for visitors. Docents in period attire will be at each building to share the history of the structure and its former inhabitants.

Hot food and drinks will be available for purchase both days through the GDPA, the cooperating association for Marshall Gold Discovery SHP. All proceeds from these sales remain in the park to help fund educational programs.

In addition to holiday vendors, the Coloma Community Market will be onsite on Saturday only, 1-4 p.m. with locally grown produce available.

Marshall Gold Discovery SHP is located in Coloma, 8 miles north of Placerville and 18 miles south of Auburn on Highway 49. Christmas in Coloma runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, and Sunday, Dec. 15. There is a $10 per vehicle parking fee. The optional historical house tour is $5 per person (age 5 and younger free).

Carriage rides are $3 per person. Dogs on a 6-foot leash are welcome. For more information or ADAaccessible needs call (530) 622-3470 or visit parks. ca.gov/MarshallGold.

His music captures the spirit of classic country while infusing it with a rock edge that keeps fans coming back for more.

The purpose

This fundraiser will support the Hands4Hope - Youth Making A

Difference Education Program at four Folsom schools in addition to its Community Engagement Program serving Mercy Creekview, Folsom’s Hope, Twin Lakes Food Bank and Powerhouse Ministries Inc. The proceeds from this event will be used to help those most vulnerable in the community while teaching youth invaluable life skills of leadership and service.

“We are proud of the 16 years of impact that youth have made across many areas of need within our community,” said Jennifer Bassett, Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference’s founder and executive director. “As needs in the community have increased, our youth-led service learning programs have responded by delivering more donations and supplies to those struggling. This exciting fundraiser event will allow us to deepen our work in Folsom while providing a unique and memorable family entertainment experience.”

The show will also feature performances from the acclaimed

Vista Del Lago High School Guitar Nation program. Additionally, a silent auction available to both attendees and anyone online will offer guitars signed by celebrity musical artists, a Nashville vacation, horseback riding, and other exciting offerings, with all proceeds benefiting Hands4Hope.

The Tuesday, Dec. 17, show at the Harris Center for the Arts will take place at 7 p.m. Tickets are available through the Harris Center box office and website. For more information visit hands4hopeyouth.org/ nashvillelive.

Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference is a nonprofit, youth driven organization with the mission to inspire and empower youth in leadership and service. Hands4Hope offers hands-on education and community engagement opportunities to youth from kindergarten through 12th grades through on-campus and after-school programs in Sacramento and El Dorado counties.

For more details call (916) 294-7426 or visit hands4hopeyouth.org.

Courtesy photo

The recently renovated Emmanuel Church will be open for tours during Christmas in Coloma, Dec. 14 & 15.

Songwriters Continued from B2

Courtesy photo

Mark McKay is a performer and songwriter who has penned some memorable hits.

& Bachata Dance Fridays Salsa Dancing, Bachata Dancing at Dance Fridays, Dance Lessons @ 7:45pm / $16.74-$27.24 This Friday, Early Bird - THE BEST OF SAN FRANCISCO DANCE LESSONS, MUSIC, AND DANCE CLUB DANCING, You're invited to our Epic Salsa and Bachata and Cumbia Bash Dance Party Dance Fridays, 550 Barneveld, San Fran‐cisco. info@dancesf.com, 877398-7025

Aaron Leigh @ 9pm El Dorado Saloon & Grill, 879 Em‐barcadero Dr, El Dorado Hills

Sacto Stand-Up - in the Callback Bar @ 9:30pm / $18.25-$25.25 Punch Line Comedy Club - Sacra‐mento, Sacramento

Family Holiday Festival @ 10am The Family Holiday Festival of‐fers a delightful mixture of children's musical perfor‐mances, family-friendly crafts, visit with Santa, de‐licious snacks, and sales of gift-quality used books. Winters Community Cen‐ter, 201 Railroad Avenue, Winters. reply@wfol.org

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

Holiday Home Tour @ 12pm / $37-$48 Napa County Landmarks Of�ce, 1416 Brown Street, Napa

Home For The Holidays @ 1:30pm / $12.50-$35 Annual Holiday Concert performed by Voices of California and very special guests including Artistic License. Richard Brunelle Perfor‐mance Hall, 315 West 14th Street, Davis. wayneraymond@ya hoo.com, 530-302-6800 SF KRAMPUS PAGEANT 2024 @ 3pm / $10 THE SISTERS OF PERPETUAL IN‐DULGENCE AND SF KRAMPUS ANNOUNCE THEIR ANNUAL KRAMPUS PAGEANT - Celebrate the sinister side of Christmas with the Sisters and SF Krampus! El Rio, 3158 Mission Street, San Francisco. tilda@thesisters.org

Mari Mack & Livin' Like Kings at The Saloon @ 4pm The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco

Festive Ornaments and Sparkling Delights @ 5pm / $155 Join us for an evening �lled with ef‐fervescent beverages, creative or‐nament painting, and delectable desserts in festive Old Sacramento on this guided experience. Old Sacramento, Sacramento. info@ sactownbites.com, 916-905-0031

Tantra Speed Date®Sacramento! Meet Singles Speed Dating @ 5:30pm / $45-$140 Join the speed dating revolution with a 94% connection rate! Meet singles & ignite connections through fun, chemistry-building games! Yoga Shala Sacramento, 2030 H Street, Sacramento. help@ tantrany.com

GamperDrums FunkJazz live @ Local Edition @ 8:30pm Local Edition, 691 Market St, San Francisco

The Nutcracker @ 1pm Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, 3301 Lyon Street, San Francisco

SF Choral Artists: Christ‐mas on the Edge – Voices from the Paci�c Rim @ 4pm / $15-$35 Acclaimed Bay Area chamber choir performs music from around the Paci�c Rim and a span of 500 years – with 2 world premieres! St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 1111 O'‐Farrell Street, San Francisco. mkaulkin@sfca.org, 415-494-8149

Yalda: A Night of Light @ 5pm / $30 Join us for Yalda, the Persian cele‐bration of light for the Winter Sol‐stice. International House, 10 Col‐lege Park, Davis. johanna@ihouse davis.org, 530-302-6636

Gaucho at Brenda's @ 5pm Brenda's French Soul Food, 652 Polk St, San Francisco

Christmas Together with The Katinas @ 6pm The Hill

Vallejo, 210 Locust Dr, Vallejo

Turbo Goth, Modern Future @ 7:30pm / $18 Brick and Mortar Music Hall, San Francisco

Paul Cauthen @ 8pm Scarlet's Saloon, 614 Sutter St, Folsom

Miranda Love @ McP's Taphouse @ 8pm McP's Taphouse Grill, 4125 Lake Tahoe Blvd A, South Lake Tahoe

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 Dance Classes Now at the Davis Arts Center! @ 4pm Tina Fitness is now offering chil‐dren's Dance classes at the Davis Arts Center. Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. duankejie68@ gmail.com

Peter Lindman Duo with Roger Rocha (4 Non Blondes)

@ 4pm The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco

The Klezmatics "Toward the Light" Hanukkah tour

@ 7pm The So�a, 2700 Capitol Ave, Sacramento

Girl Named Tom @ 7:30pm Harris Cen‐ter, 10 Col‐lege Pkwy, Folsom

Jordana Bryant: The Joy of Christmas Tour @ 7:30pm Harris Center, 10 College Pkwy, Folsom

Paul Kotapish

@ 7:30pm The Lost Church San Francisco, 988 Columbus Ave, San Francisco

Samantha Fish Shake Em' on Down Tour @ 8pm / $42.50 The Fillmore, San Francisco

Tai Chi Classes @ 10am Tai chi classes now offered at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. duanke jie68@gmail.com

Pro Am Comedy Showcase @ 7pm / $5 New comics and seasoned pros share the stage at Laughs Unlimited to bring you the funny. Laughs Unlimited Com‐edy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsunlim ited@gmail.com, 916-446-8128

Saturday Dec 14th

Voices of California - Home for the Holidays - Saturday December 14, 2024 @ 1:30pm / Free Richard Brunelle Performance Hall, 315 West 14th Street,

Enjoy

Alex Ramon "Magic" @ 7pm / $47.75 Harveys Cabaret at Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline

Nettspend @ 7pm The Regency Ballroom, 1300 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco

Nettspend @ 8pm The Regency Ballroom, San Fran‐cisco

2024 Wonho Usa Fan

Meetup @ 8pm August Hall, San Francisco

No Cover @ 9pm Kilowatt Bar,

Tai

Candle‐light: Holiday Special featuring “The Nutcracker” and More @ 7pm / $38.50 California State Railroad Museum, 125 I St, Sacra‐mento. fever@ eventvesta.com

B-Side Players: B Side Players @ 7pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Dancing Plague @ 8pm The Starlet Room, 2708 J St, Sacramento

12/20

Two gymnastics classes for chil‐dren offered on Wednesday after‐noons at the Davis Arts Center. Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. duankejie68@gmail.com

Nightmare Before Christmas @ 7pm Crest The‐atre, 1013 K Street, Sacramento

Rock Meets Country

@Music City San Francisco

@ 7pm / $29

Rock meets Country at Music City SF, where electrifying riffs and heartfelt twang collide for an unfor‐gettable night! 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Francisco. aprill@ musiccitysf.org

Anthony Boccaleoni at the Fox and Goose

@ 7pm Fox & Goose Public House, 1001 R St, Sacramento

Los Microwaves: Microwave Buddha at Bottom of the Hill @ 8pm Bottom Of the Hill, 1233 17th St, San Francisco

silver swoon: Tupelo battle of the bands @ 8pm Tupelo, 1337 Grant Ave, San Fran‐cisco

sanah: Special Guest at A Night with Matteo Show @ 8pm Palace Of Fine Arts Theatre, 3301 Lyon St, San Francisco

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

Festive Ornaments and Sparkling Delights

@ 5pm / $155 Join us for an evening �lled with ef‐fervescent beverages, creative or‐nament painting, and delectable desserts in festive Old Sacramento on this guided experience. Old Sacramento, Sacramento. info@ sactownbites.com, 916-905-0031

EDH Library - Fiber Arts Group @ 5:30pm Knitting, crochet, sewing, embroi‐dery and more! El Dorado County Library | El Dorado Hills Branch, 7455 Silva Valley Parkway, El Do‐rado Hills. 916-358-3500

Say It Loud Comedy @ 7pm / $20 Javon Whitlock Headlining Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacra‐mento. laughsunlimited@ gmail.com, 916-446-8128

John Palowitch: Jingle & Swing: Holiday Classics @ 7pm Black Cat, 400 Eddy St, San Fran‐cisco

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

Eclectic Fridays @The Music City Underground Live Bands & DJ Sets @ 7pm / $29 Eclectic Fridays @The Music CityLive Bands & DJ Sets 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Fran‐cisco. aprill@musiccitysf.org

JourneyDay Music @ 7pm Levendi Winery & Tasting Room, 1465 1st St, Napa

Salsa & Bachata Dance Fridays Salsa Dancing, Bachata Dancing at Dance Fridays, Dance Lessons @ 7:45pm / $16.74-$27.24

This Friday, Early Bird - THE BEST OF SAN FRANCISCO DANCE LESSONS, MUSIC, AND DANCE CLUB DANCING, You're invited to our Epic Salsa and Bachata and Cumbia Bash Dance Party Dance Fridays, 550 Barneveld, San Fran‐cisco. info@dancesf.com, 877398-7025

Jake Jacobson @ 8pm Folsom Hotel, 703 Sutter St, Fol‐som Gaucho at Comstock Saloon @ 8pm Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco

Glampus Krampus Party! with Grooblen, Surplus 1980, Mommy Mommy, Jas Stade @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

Park Street Riot and The Big Poppies @ 8:30pm Torch Club, 904 15th St, Sacramento

Sat 12/21

Brenda Mallory: In

hosted by Hands4Hope and Young Life, will take place at El Dorado Hills Town Center on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 13-22.

Sutter Street Theatre presents “A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas” as part of its family series of shows. Performances will run Dec. 13-29. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Join the Cameron Park Community Services District for movie night. The free event will be showing “Elf,” 6-8 p.m. at the CPCSD. Bring your own blankets, bean bags and pillows.

Zach Waters Band will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville 7-11 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Donnie & the Wayrads will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino. com.

Dec. 14

Check out Placerville Cars and Coffee every Saturday, 7-9 a.m. at Lions Park. Hang out with other car enthusiasts.

EDH Cars and Coffee 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 type of vehicle is welcome. The motto is “If it rolls, it goes.” Celebrate the holiday season with a trip back in time with Christmas in Coloma Dec. 14 & 15 starting at 10 a.m. at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. For information call (530) 622-3470 or visit parks.ca.gov/marshallgold.

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.

Holiday Cheer on Omo — Open House and Market at Mellowood Vineyard, 2979 Mellowood Drive, Fair Play, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrate the holidays and find unique gifts. There will be special holiday wine drinks and flights of wines. Guest favorite Captain Jack Sparrow is back. Captain Jack is a beautiful alpaca and herd sire for Alpacas of El Dorado, who will be featuring popular alpaca wares for sale. Enjoy a hot mulled wine and listen to live music by Tom Power while strolling the grounds, visiting the market vendors and enjoying the 2021 red wines. For more information call (916) 2617512.

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

The Rocky Mountain High Experience starring Rick Schuler presents a John Denver Christmas at the Harris Center with showtimes Dec. 14 & 15. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

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

Dec. 15

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. Visit the Shingle Springs Community Center from noon to 5 p.m. for its Gift Wrapping Fundraiser. For more information go to shinglespringscommunitycenter.org.

Love, Live, Laugh Holiday Floral Arranging Workshop will be held at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville 2-3 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Cantare Chorale of the Sierra Foothills will perform at the Foothills United Methodist Church in Rescue starting at 3 p.m. For tickets and more information, go to cantarechorale.com.

Mitchell Dudman will perform at 3 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

Dec. 16

A Girl Named Tom, the only group to win NBC’s “The Voice,” is embarking on a Christmas tour and will be making a stop at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom with the show starting at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Dec. 17

The purpose of the Widowed Persons Club is to provide a support group for widowed men and women of all ages and provide a wide range of social activities through which they have an opportunity to make new friends and find a new direction in their lives. Regular breakfasts are held every Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. at Denny’s in Placerville. For those interested in joining or reservations don’t hesitate to get in touch with Glenda at (530) 295-8374 or Nancy at (530) 919-8276.

Powell’s Steamer Company and Pub, 425 Main St., presents Eric Hill and Jonny Mojo for Taco Tuesday on the first and third Tuesdays of the month from 4-7 p.m. Stop by for some good food and good tunes. For more information call (530) 626-1091.

Nashville Songwriters Live, a benefit concert for Hands4Hope –Youth Making a Difference, at 7 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts. Join top songwriters Jeffery Steele, Mark Mackay and CJ Solar as they share the stories behind chart-topping hits for artists like Keith Urban and Eric Church. In an intimate, acoustic performance, these talented writers will play the music and unravel the tales that inspired the songs. For tickets and more information visit hands4hopeyouth.org/nashvillelive or call (916) 608-6888.

Dec. 18

Dementia Connection hosts Caregiver Support Group and Activity Enrichment Group, 1:30-3 p.m. at Green Valley Church, 3500 Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. For more information call (530) 621-7820.

Main Street Menagerie, a DJ and Drag Show, will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville 7-10 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Midtown Holiday Market takes place at Albert Winn Park, 1616 28th St. in Sacramento, 5-8 p.m. The Winn-ter Wonderland pop-up evening market will include more than 70 vendors, artisans with craft activities, pre-packaged foods and popular food trucks perfect for weeknight meals. In addition, entertaining music will be provided by the popular DJ Klean with free ornament making provided by the Midtown Association and a holiday photo booth. Send information for publication in In The Know at least two weeks in advance of the event/activity to Editor Noel Stack at nstack@ mtdemocrat.net.

Holiday on Omo

Continued from B2

process. A charcuterie grazing board is available with the regular wine tasting menu. Oak and Rustic Designs will also be showcasing its beautiful handmade quality laser engraved hardwood and live edge crafted designs for display or use in your home or office. Pick up unique holiday gifts for friends and family.

Lost Arrow Winery pours its wines at Mirador for this special event. Together they will be offering a

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

delightful lineup of wines for your tasting pleasure, including Mirador’s Barbera, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, alongside Lost Arrow’s current and new releases of Estate Petite Sirah and Shenandoah Pinot Noir.

Little John’s Candies will again participate from its storefront location at 8031 Mt. Aukum Road. Holiday on Omo is free and registrations are not required. For more information call (916) 261-7512.

Scientists think eating bugs could fight hunger and help protect our planet’s health.

According to entomologist Arnold van Huis of Wageningen University in the Netherlands, about 80% of the world’s population eats insects.

Circle the bugs to create groups as instructed. Then, have a parent check your answers.

Divide the dragonflies into three groups with the same number in each group.

Mealworms, crickets and locusts are the most common bugs people consume. But there are more than 1,700 kinds of bugs that are safe to eat, including termites and cockroaches!

Imagine you are starting a restaurant that makes and serves dishes made with bugs. Complete the Bug Bistro menu at right with dishes made with bugs as the main ingredient!

Divide the roaches into

Circle the bug that should come next in each row.

According to the United Nations, the planet’s will reach 9 billion before 2050. The demand for meat will double. Raising cattle, pigs and other livestock takes a lot of land, a lot of and a lot of money to feed them.

Insects are much and cheaper to raise than livestock. They like to live together in spaces, so they need less land. They can also eat food . According to entomologist Arnold van Huis, we throw away one-third of our food. Insects could eat the we throw out, turning it back into food for people to eat.

In Thailand, poor rice who often lose their crops to bad weather, are finding that raising mounds of crickets is helping them to survive and keep their farms. There are more than 20,000 cricket farms in Thailand, 7,500 tons of crickets each year. Thailand leads the world in raising insects for food.

Divide the crickets into five equal groups.

id you know that crustaceans, like lobsters, crab and shrimp, belong to the same part of the animal family tree as insects? So if you’ve ever tried these tasty treats, then you’ve dined on the insects of the sea!

In Louisiana, people eat a lot of crustaceans called crawfish Use the code to find out their nickname:

Living Things

On one newspaper page, find and circle the letters that spell the names of each of the bugs below. Then connect the circled letters to make and color a design.

the words in the puzzle. Then look for each word in this week’s Kid Scoop stories and activities.

Rhubarb was a key ingredient in Aunt Sofia’s award-winning dessert.

to use the word ingredient in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members.

Rattlers and third went to Cub Scout Pack

The

dogs of Guide Dogs for the

earned

in the

with

The Performing Groups saw Imagination Theater performing scenes from its production of “Miracle on 34th Street” take first place. Dressed in sparkling green costumes and dancing to “Jingle Bell Rock” On Stage Productions Dance Studio came in second and baton twirling Impulse Dance Academy placed third. In the Other category Hands 4 Hope — Youth Making a Difference with an Island of Misfit Toys was first and the Salvation Army was second.

Latrobe Outlanders 4H had it all with animals, toys, singing and great costumes to win first place in the 4H Animals with Float category. Gold Hill Toppers 4H had toys, animals and costumes to win second and Shingle Springers 4H with toys and bunnies was third.

Gordon Vicini’s fire truck and calliope was first in the Fire Equipment category and the U.S. Forest Service was second.

A bunch of decorated Jeeps carrying toys earned Jeepers Jamboree Inc. a first place. The Union Mine

FFA Farm Power Team

decorated Formal Cub tractors to win the Tractors category.

Highway 50 Wagon Train won first in the Horse Drawn Vehicle category and Slate Creek Animal Hospital was second.

Todd L. Schulman in his restored 1944 Willys MB Jeep won first in the Old Cars category and the McClung Family with its 1965 Oldsmobile Cutlass convertible was second.

The decorated vehicles in the Hangtown A’s Car Club entry won first in the Car Club category.

American Legion Riders Placerville riding decorated motorcycles won first in the Other Vehicle category.

Pleasant Valley Pet Clinic with blow-up animals, toys and a train was second and El Dorado Beekeepers with

the bee train was third. In the Commercial Decorated Vehicles category Gold Country Senior Living depicting the Toy Story theme won first place and Jalquin’s Trucking Inc. was second.

Frogs Family Barbershop with leap frogging participants won the Commercial

Decorated Vehicle/Float category.

Volunteers from El Dorado Adventist School helped hand out bags of candy to the spectators as they walked by the float carrying Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Judges this year were: Jody Franklin, El Dorado County

Chamber of Commerce director of tourism; Mary Meader, 2016 El Dorado Rose and Placerville News Company owner; Jason Jackson with Sierra Home Inspection; and Mimi Escabar, Mountain Democrat special sections editor.

Norm Hammond from Hammond’s Hits provided the music and Sherry Souza and Davey “Doc” Wiser handled the announcer duties. Scout BSA Troop 911 took on the monumental task of cleaning up trash after the parade.

Photo by Shelly Thorene

Members of Guide Dogs For The Blind, Cameron Park, lead a troop of canines down Main Street. The group earned first place in the Walking Group with Animals.

Christmas music with an Irish twist comes to The Center

Leila Srouji The Center for the Arts

GRASS VALLEY — The Center for the Arts presents Christmas with The Celts in the Marisa Funk Theater on Dec. 15.

The Celts are Dubliner Patrick D’Arcy (U2, Sting, Josh Groban) and Fiachra O’Regan from Connemara, Ireland, on uilleann pipes/whistles/ bodhran, Maggie Lander and Luisa Marion on vocals and fiddle, Matt Menefee (Mumford & Sons) banjo, mandolin, vocals and Nashville songwriter, producer and band leader Ric Blair on vocals, guitar, bodhrán and piano.

The Celts combine tight vocal harmonies with energetic, fiery Irish trad breaks and original songs. The Celts are known for incorporating all things Irish into unlimited genres. From retro disco dance to roots country, jazz and rock with no restrictions to their creative freedom.

Sean Laffey from Irish Music

Magazine notes, “The Celts weave hundreds of years of heritage into their music, which is at once timeless and equally up to the minute. Their songs are as carefully crafted as heirloom furniture, their music will be cherished way into the future.”

Currently celebrating 14 years of successful national touring, Christmas with the Celts perform a wonderful combination of timeless ancient Irish Christmas Carols and lively Irish dance with modern contemporary songs but with Irish instrumentation. New Christmas hits, Celts originals, and fresh Irish Dance tunes are added to the show each year so that no two years are the same.

Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at The Center for the Arts, 314 West Main St. in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org or call (530) 274-8384.

Join ‘Santa of Santas’ at Lake Tahoe’s Festival of Winter Lights

Anna Kristina Moseidjord Tahoe Daily Tribune

The city of South Lake Tahoe invites locals and visitors to join for the annual Festival of Winter Lights this weekend. The festival will be held at 3050 Lake Tahoe Blvd., 4-8 p.m. Dec. 13 & 14.

The two-night event includes a holiday market with a variety of local vendors, a Gingerbread House Village showcasing entries to the Gingerbread Competition, and activities like photos with Santa Claus. Also featured: cozy winter carriage rides, a special visit from the South Lake Tahoe Christmas Fire Engine and free hot chocolate provided by the Lake Tahoe Historical Society.

“We first held our version of the event, Holiday History, about 10 years ago,” said Diane Johnson, museum chair of the Lake Tahoe Historical Society. The organization had “all kinds of holiday fun” before partnering with the city four years ago to

expand the event.

“The very first year we had it after the partnership, it was huge,” Johnson noted. In fact, the festival has grown so much that the city warns that parking is limited, asking attendees to “please carpool and consider taking public transportation or a free Lake Link shuttle to and from the event.” Lake Link can be found at tahoelakelink.com.

One thing that hasn’t changed? Scott Peters, the event’s resident Santa Claus.

“When I put that red suit on, I am Santa Claus,” Peters said. “And the kids pick up on that. I get them singing songs. I make sure every child and every parent has an opportunity to speak with me.”

Peters has attended the Festival of Winter Lights as Santa for more than a decade, pouring his heart and soul into being just what kids need.

“I’ve got stories that would make you laugh and stories that would make you cry,” he shared.

That doesn’t mean he doesn’t have a rider. “Santa

Public Notices

ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 11/22, 11/29, 12/6, 12/13 13950

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2024-1062 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DIAMOND DELIGHTS located at 520 Pleasant Valley Rd, Diamond Springs, CA 95619/Mailing Address: PO Box 668, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Sheri J. Arntsen-Miller, PO Box 668, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Sheri Arntsen-Miller SHERI ARNTSEN-MILLER, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 11/18/2024 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 11/22, 11/29, 12/6, 12/13 13951 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 24CV2543 TO ALL

can’t have one of those big, fluffy chairs,” Peters explained. “Then his knees are up so high he can’t reach the children.”

The solution? A historical society volunteer actually built Peters his own special chair.

Peters was a long-time NorCal resident but moved recently. He traveled all the way from New England this year to make the celebration.

“I didn’t quite come from the North Pole,” he said, “but I did come from New Hampshire.”

All are invited to meet the man Johnson calls “the Santa of Santas” this weekend.

Attendees of the festival are also invited to vote for People’s Choice Award for best Gingerbread House, support the South Tahoe Parks Foundation with a commemorative Glühwein mug (and complimentary hot chocolate) and generally join in on the holiday cheer.

For more information visit cityofslt.us/ FestivalofWinterLights.

• E-mail your public notice to legals@mtdemocrat.net

• Be sure to include your name and phone number

THORNTON Proposed name: JOSIAH BRUCE THORNTON 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING: JANUARY 10, 2025, 8:30 A.M.

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

3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on NOVEMBER 14, 2024. /s/ Gary Slossberg

GARY SLOSSBERG, Judge of the Superior Court 11/22, 11/29, 12/6, 12/13 13959

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2024-1082

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HOOVERVILLE ORCHARDS BAKESHOP, located at 1101 Wallace Rd, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: 1. Jennifer K Wolfe, 1101 Wallace Rd, Placerville, CA 95667, 2. Holly M Ferris, 1101 Wallace Rd, Placerville, CA 95667

This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 11/17/2024 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Jennifer Wolfe

JENNIFER WOLFE, MANAGER I declare

knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 11/22/2024 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920,

SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions

PORTION

QUARTER

and

Deed

4, TOWNSHIP 10 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST, M.D.B.&M., DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF U.S. HIGHWAY NO. 50 FROM WHICH THE SOUTH QUARTER CORNER OF SAID SECTION 4 BEARS SOUTH 88° 4’ WEST 80 FEET, SOUTH 1° 19’ EAST 560.43 FEET AND SOUTH 52° 41’ 30” WEST 837.73 FEET, THENCE FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING NORTH 88° 41’ EAST 120 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 1° 05’ EAST 90 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 1° 19’ EAST 60 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 88° 41’ WEST 120 FEET, THENCE NORTH 1° 19’ WEST 150 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SAVING AND EXCEPTING THEREFROM, BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE EAST LINE OF SAID PARCEL, DISTANT THEREON NORTH 02° 08’ 00” WEST 29.54 FEET FROM THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL, SAID POINT ALSO BEING DISTANT 80.00 FEET NORTHERLY, MEASURED AT RIGHT ANGLES FROM THE BASE LINE AT ENGINEER’S STATION “E” 390+61.09 OF THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS’ SURVEY FROM 0.3 MILE EAST OF CAMINO TO 0.7 MILE EAST OF SLY PARK ROAD, ROAD III -ED-11-E, F; THENCE FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING SOUTH 02° 08’ 00” EAST 29.54 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL; THENCE ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID PARCEL SOUTH 87° 52’ 00” WEST 120.00 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER THEREOF; THENCE ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID PARCEL NORTH 02° 08’ 00” WEST 40.58 FEET; THENCE

Courtesy photo

Christmas with the Celts perform a wonderful combination of timeless ancient Irish Christmas carols and lively Irish dance with modern contemporary songs.