Let it glow
El Dorado County Fire Protection District first responders, assisted by a Cal Fire crew, successfully cut the 78-year-old driver free from his overturned 2014 GMC truck after responding to the 11:45 a.m. crash. Roger Beaver of Silver Springs, Nev., was transported to Marshall Hospital with suspected minor injuries, according to information provided by the California Highway Patrol.
CHP o cer Andrew Brown confirmed the agency is investigating why Beaver’s truck left the roadway and ended up in the trees. He was the only occupant of the vehicle.
“There were no unusual roadway conditions,” Brown noted. “The road was dry and weather was clear.
“A seatbelt was used by the driver and likely contributed to less severe injuries,” he added. “We want to remind drivers that wearing a seatbelt and driving sober is a lifesaving combo through the holiday season.”
Noel Stack Editor
It’s time to move on. That’s the consensus four El Dorado Hills Community Services District directors came to after discussing an investigative report related to the conduct of current Director Noelle Mattock and former Director Ben Paulsen. Though disappointed with the quality of the report and what some called blatant gaps in ■ See INVESTIGATION, page A5
Mountain Democrat photo by Noel Stack
El Dorado County residents decked the halls, yards, roofs and more this holiday season, creating festive displays for eager Christmas light seekers to enjoy. Above, Travois Circle in Rescue never disappoints. A trip around the loop just off Green Valley Road will reveal many beautifully decorated properties.
Mountain Democrat photo by Noel Stack
And don’t forget to take a walk down Christmas tree Lane in Placerville.
The traditional trees provided by the El Dorado County Christmas Tree Growers Association are worth a visit both during the day and night, left photo. Santa Claus had no trouble spotting this Royal Drive home in Cameron Park, above. The front yard is a colorful winter wonderland. Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco
decorations. The house is
impressive light displays around
Mountain Democrat photo by Odin Rasco
ESSENTIALS
Mark Charles Ivani
Sept. 4, 1958 – Dec. 13, 2024
Mark was born and raised in his beloved city of San Francisco, then spent several years in Sonoma county before moving to the mountains west of Lake Tahoe where he passed on December 13th surrounded by his loving wife, Christy, his sons Nick and Matt, and his older sister Lisa. He is also survived by his younger sister, Kristen and his daughter Angela. Mark’s love of motorcycles, music, laughter, and sports allowed him to make new friends everywhere he went. He was a loving husband and father and will be deeply missed by his family and friends. A Celebration of Life memorial will be held in Pollock Pines in the spring.
Anthony (Tony) Joseph Couch
Aug. 17, 1971 – Aug. 4, 2024
Erik Davenport
Jan. 28, 1950 – Dec. 16, 2024
“I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather that my spark burn out in a brilliant blaze than be stifled by dryrot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permanent planet. The function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days trying to prolong them. I shall use my time.”
—Jack London.
Anthony Joseph Couch, Tony, passed on to the next realm on August 4, 2024 in Santa Barbara, California. He was our little brother and we loved him. Tony’s star burned especially bright. He grew up in Pleasant Valley, southeast of Placerville, where creeks and rivers, forest and mountains, grasslands and verdant countryside were his home. This geography fed his adventurous spirit and he embraced it with his whole being. At an early age Tony demonstrated his thrill-seeking inclination when at three years old he was gifted a big wheel to replace his little Winnie-the-Pooh scooter. He immediately took it to the top of the steep driveway and fearlessly zoomed down the hill as fast as he could, hitting the brake just before entering the flowing Clear Creek. The rest is history. He built a BMX race track across the creek and a quarter pipe at the bottom of the driveway (for BMX and skateboard), and in the process became an amazing athlete, whose airborne prowess as a trickster was unmatched among his tribe of ‘80s and ‘90s locals. He loved to snowboard, a natural extension of his mad skill set that allowed him to explore wintertime in the High Sierra, where he was completely in his element. He told many tales of exploring these mighty mountains, including daring feats of entering old gold mine shafts and finding caves under water along the Cosumnes River in nearby Happy Valley and Bucks Bar. Like a real life Huckleberry Finn, he roamed far and wide, whether on foot, by bicycle or motorbike, or in his semi-restored Datsun Roadster. He was freedom incarnate and it suited him just fine. Tony met and married Jennifer Anne Campbell in the early 90s and together they had three beautiful boys. After attending American River College, the couple started a small business, Town & Country Painting. While naturally creative, through owning his own business Tony acquired construction and handyman skills and learned the value and importance of sales, hard work and a job well done. He enjoyed using his hands to build and fix things and offered these skills to others. Tony was fun and damn funny. He loved puns, jingles, dad jokes, and one-liners. He had a million of them and could recite a handful at a moment’s notice. He could make just about anyone laugh. He could also charm. He knew what to say to break the ice and get the party started. His Martin Short (especially Ed Grimly) and Steve Martin (anything) comedy impressions were priceless. As an adult, Tony loved disc golf. He started out playing with his older brother Kevin, and played all around Northern California, but Goldridge and Somerset were his home courses. Over the years he lived off and on in Placerville, Lake Tahoe, Strawberry, Greater LA and Santa Barbara, where he also played and made friends on the course. Tony made friends easily. He would strike up a conversation with anyone and find something they had in common. This propensity led to many random discoveries of coincidental connection, oftentimes leading to lasting friendships or acquaintances, sometimes resulting in jobs. Wherever he found himself, he never stopped making new friends. Tony was the youngest of six children. He is predeceased by his parents Patrick Shepard Couch and Peggy Helen Light Couch and his brother Kevin Thomas More Couch. He is survived by his three sons, Jered Sequoyah Campbell, Kailee Anthony Campbell, and Denali Oliver Campbell; and his four sisters, Katherine Helen Tulga, Julie Cecile Dunn (Tony), Sara Eileen Easterbrook (Keith), and Rachel Leonora Couch. We are filled with sorrow that Tony’s time here on earth was so brief, but cherish the memories of him living his life to the fullest. His bright light shines on in our hearts and in those who knew and loved him. May peace be with him.
Erik Davenport was born in San Jose, California and spent most of his younger years in Placerville. He passed away on Dec 16th in Placerville at the age of 74. Erik graduated from El Dorado High in 1968 and joined the United States Navy as a radio operator. Following his service in the Navy, Erik returned to Placerville. He managed numerous pear and apple orchards while embarking on a life-long career of home construction. Following years of building in the Placerville area, he went to Sitka, Alaska to build a home for his sister and her family on an island. He returned to Placerville until summoned to build another home on the same island in 1983. He remained in Sitka building custom homes in Sitka and the surrounding islands for nearly 30 years. He was even featured in the local paper, The Sitka Sentinel, for his unique and sturdy construction on the islands. His methods included use of a World War II era landing craft and helicopters to get supplies to the sites. He was a true craftsman who took great pride in his work. In 2012, he returned to Placerville to build a custom home for his brother and his family. Erik enjoyed this time with family taking in his nephews’ sporting events and family celebrations. Following the completion of his last major build, Erik moved with his wife Marilyn to Eugene, Oregon before becoming nomads with an RV to explore the west coast. Following a summer in Arizona, Erik and Marilyn returned to Placerville with their RV while looking to put down some more permanent roots. Erik is survived by his wife, Marilyn Durocher, stepson Joseph Einri, stepdaughter Sarah Durocher, stepdaughters Amy and Kiya Knight, sister Karen (Charlie) Haley, brother Kurt (Veronica) Raffetto, and three nephews, and a niece. A celebration of life will take place on January 25th, 2025 in Placerville.
Sandra L. Folmer (Winton)
May 5, 1946 – Dec. 3, 2024
Sandra L. Folmer, 78, passed away peacefully at home under the loving care of family and Snowline Hospice of Placerville, CA. Born in Stockton, CA. May 5, 1946 to Florence Winton (Board) and Willard Arnold (Arnone) Winton, as firstborn, she remained their “#1” or “Ichiban” Daughter ever after. Survived by husband Doyle Folmer, daughters Vicki Gomez, Norma Folmer, Yvonne Tyler, sister Susan Winton, and brother-in-law Richard Sapudar, she was also blessed with many grandchildren (7) and great-grandchildren (15). Preceded in death by mother, Florence Winton, father Willard Winton, brother Richard Winton and sister Patricia Winton, she will be greatly missed. Graveside interment (immediate family only) will be held January 7, 2025 at 1pm at Park View Cemetery, and a Celebration of Life all are welcome to attend will be held January 18th, 2025 at 1pm at Foothills Church 2380 Merrychase Drive, Cameron Park, CA 95682 (Call office at 530-677-3057 ) Check Park View’s Memorial Page via link below for complete “Tribute” Memorial: https://parkviewmortuary. tributecenteronline.com/obituaries/Sandra-LeaFolmer?obId=33950815
Joseph P. Williams
Sept. 8, 1927 – Nov. 8, 2024
Cynthia “Cindy” Rae Holmes
Nov. 03, 1948 – Oct. 18, 2024
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Cynthia “Cindy” Rae Holmes, 75, of Placerville, California. Cindy passed away on October 18, 2024. Born on November 3, 1948, in Hawthorne, NV, Cindy was the daughter of the late E e (Eather) Holmes and Raymond Holmes. A graduate of Mineral County High School in 1966, Cindy dedicated 20 years of her life to serving others as a part of the Emergency Department Admitting Team at Marshall Hospital, where her strength, kindness and attention to detail left an indelible mark. Cindy’s legacy is one of courage, generosity, and a magnetic presence. She had an unusual ability to connect with people from all walks of life, possessing a sharp intuition that allowed her to make meaningful relationships and provide valuable insight to others. Her bright and perceptive eyes reflected a soul full of wonder, empathy, and deep emotional intelligence. She lived life of her own accord, often finding light and laughter in the most ordinary moments. Cindy was a woman of many interests. She had a marked appreciation for music and dance, having expressed that it was possible to feel the emotion the musician or artist was trying to evoke, if one really let themselves be enveloped in the song. She dreamed of traveling to faraway places and had an adventurous, daring spirit. She was a fierce supporter of those in need and carried the torch of hope for others when they could not carry it themselves. She had compassion for all living things, especially animals in need, and strove to live life in a manner that was respectful and conscientious of all God’s creations. Cindy’s charisma, wisdom, and determination touched everyone she met, and she will be remembered for her sensational conversations, warm personality, enduring spirit and ability to see beauty in all things. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her daughter, Tammie Rae Anderson; grandchildren, Danielle Morales and Nathaniel Anderson, sister, JoAnn Bowles; and her cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, E e (Eather) Holmes and Raymond Holmes. According to Cindy’s wishes, no formal funeral will be held. A gathering to honor Cindy will be held in the spring, and details will be shared with family and friends. For those who wish to show tribute to her, the family requests that donations be made to a local animal rescue organization of your choice.
LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES
PLACERVILLE CITY COUNCIL Placerville City Hall 3101 Center St., Placerville (530) 642-5200
Mayor John Clerici jclerici@cityofplacerville.org
Vice Mayor Nicole Gotberg ngotberg@cityofplacerville.org
Ryan Carter rcarter@cityofplacerville.org
Jackie Neau jneau@cityofplacerville.org David Yarbrough dyarbrough@cityofplacerville. org ElL DORADO COUNTY SUPERVISORS EDC Government Center 330 Fair Lane, Placerville
District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero (530) 621-5650
District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo (530)
District
District
WWII Veteran Joe Williams passed away in his home in El Dorado Hills at the age of 97. Born in Detroit, MI., his parents immigrated from Poland, entering through Ellis Island, their names changing from Wilinski to Williams. A proud World War 2 Navy Veteran, Joe served on the aircraft carrier USS Roosevelt. He visited many parts of the world, and was honorably discharged with a Victory Medal. After college he entered the emerging new world of technology and became an expert in the beginning stages of computer development. Joe was still a computer expert at 97. He was flown as a consultant around the country from New York, Chicago to Seattle. He met his first wife, Helen in Los Angles. They moved to El Dorado County in 1970 where they raised four children. Although he worked many long hours, he always found time for summer vacations that the family remembers as fun-filled adventures; especially boating on California Lakes and trips across the country. Joe built his home on Hollow Oak Drive 55 years ago, overlooking Folsom and Sacramento, with views of the costal range. It is still and will be the family and friends gathering place. He was known for his dry sense of humor, open mind and his extraordinary kindness. Joe Williams is survived by his wife, DorothyIngram Williams; his daughter, Carlen Vincent of Cameron Park; his son, Jeffrey Ellsworth of Placerville; his sister, Irene Varney of Florida; his grandson, Ryan Gibson of Cameron Park; great granddaughter, Kyndell Turpen of Cameron Park; son, Grant Ingram of Somerset; grandson, Maxwell Ingram of Cameron Park; and beloved extended family. He will be missed and remembered by countless friends of all ages, In lieu of contributions, please give to your favorite charity; but Joe would be pleased if you took an hour with your loved one, perhaps pour a glass of wine and made a toast to the heavens.
Cal Fire crew makes special delivery
Early last Thursday morning, firefighters from Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit Station 43 delivered nearly 600 gifts —along with bikes and gift cards — to New Morning Youth & Family Services in Placerville. This tradition, now in its 19th year, originated at Station 43 and has grown into a heartwarming community celebration. This Dec. 19 special delivery was made possible by the
generosity shown at a fundraising event held earlier in December. “(The community’s) support has helped brighten Christmas for some of our county’s most vulnerable children,” a Cal Fire AEU social media post notes. “From all of us in the Amador-El Dorado Unit, Merry Christmas and thank you!”
Deputies nab robbery suspect
Mountain Democrat staff
El Dorado County sheriff’s deputies arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of robbery on Dec. 20.
Earlier in the month, Gage LeBaron allegedly stole sporting equipment from a local business and assaulted the store’s loss prevention officer when asked to return to the store to pay for the stolen items, according to an EDSO social media post. Deputies
picked up LeBaron Friday near Green Leaf Drive in Placerville and he was booked into the El Dorado County Jail just down the road.
“Stealing from our local businesses and assaulting their employees is not the way to start your holidays,” EDSO officials note in the post. “Stay on Santa’s good list by making good choices.”
Inmate records indicate LeBaron was released on $50,000 bail.
Gaines elected as BOE chairman
News release
SACRAMENTO
— At its December board meeting, the California State Board of Equalization elected Ted Gaines as chairman and Sally J. Lieber as vice chair for 2025. Gaines currently serves as vice chair. As chairman, he will also serve on the threemember Franchise Tax Board.
“I look forward to leading a fair, transparent and accountable board that leads state property tax policy,” said Gaines.
Gaines was first elected to the BOE in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, representing the 1st Equalization District, which includes all or parts of 34 counties extending from Siskiyou and Modoc counties in the north to San Bernardino County in the south. He has previously served 12 years in both the California State Assembly and State Senate, and as a member of the Placer County Board of Supervisors for eight yea Lieber was elected to the BOE in 2022, representing the 2nd Equalization District, which includes 19 counties extending from
Del Norte County in the north to Ventura County in the south.
She is a former member of the California State Assembly, previously serving as speaker pro tempore and as a member of the Assembly Revenue and Taxation Committee. Lieber was also a member of the Mountain View City
n See GAINES, page A7
TED
PPD CRIME LOG
The following information was taken from Placerville police reports:
Dec. 8
9:07 a.m. Trespassing reported on Broadway.
2:15 p.m. Battery reported at a store on Main Street.
4:44 p.m.
6:54
Street. He was listed in custody in lieu of $28,000 bail.
3:46 p.m. Officers issued a citation after responding to a fire on Forni Road.
8:01 p.m. Vandalism reported at the parking garage on Center Street.
9:57 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 37-year-old woman suspected of trespassing at a grocery store on Placerville Drive. She was later released.
11:21 p.m. Battery reported on Marshall Way.
Dec. 10
10:22 a.m. Petty theft reported at a coffee shop on Broadway.
1:05 p.m. Trespassing reported at a school on Broadway.
2:26 p.m. Petty theft reported on Woodridge Court.
3:46 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 38-year-old woman suspected of trespassing and a probation violation on Broadway. She was listed in custody.
Dec. 11
6:14 p.m. Indecent exposure reported on Main Street.
6:29 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 44-year-old woman suspected of DUI on Davis Court. She was released on $15,000 bail.
8:40 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 40-year-old woman suspected of theft, possession of illegal drug paraphernalia and a probation violation on Main Street. She was later released.
Dec. 12
3:26 a.m. Officers booked into jail a 45-year-old man
Gum tissue grafts are usually done to repair receding gums. When gums recede, more of the tooth—and eventually the tooth’s root—become exposed, leading to tooth loss if left untreated. A gum tissue graft is used to either cover an exposed root or to support thinning gum tissue. Dentists use three types of gum tissue grafts. Connective tissue grafts use tissue from the roof of the mouth to treat an exposed root. Free gingival grafts also use mouth roof tissue and are usually used to thicken existing gum tissue. A pedicle graft is preferrable because it uses both tissue and blood vessels from the surrounding gums, but it is only available for patients
with enough healthy surrounding tissue. Whether it involves a gum tissue graft, cosmetic work, wisdom teeth, or simple fillings, any program we suggest for your dental health will be thoroughly discussed with you before we begin. When you are looking for state-of-the-art, personalized dentistry from people who really care, welcome to our office. Our dental team works smoothly and efficiently together, devoted to making your dental experience comfortable as well as enhancing.
P.S. Tissue from a tissue bank is sometimes used for gum grafts rather than tissue from another part of the patient’s mouth.
Photos courtesy of Cal Fire AEU
incredible
GAINES
Mosquito Bridge damaged but still open to traffic
Odin Rasco Senior sta writer
El Dorado County transportation o cials made an unplanned visit to the Mosquito Bridge in Placerville Sunday, Dec. 22, after California Highway Patrol o cers received a call about damage spotted on the historical bridge that spans the South Fork of the American River.
Mosquito Fire Protection District representatives took to social media Sunday to warn commuters to avoid the bridge and take an alternate route home while the county sent out workers to inspect damage apparently caused by a vehicle.
After a review of the damage, El Dorado County Department of Transportation o cials announced the bridge would be kept open for tra c; a maintenance crew was scheduled to revisit the bridge Dec. 23
to further assess repair options.
“Mosquito Bridge was inspected by the bridge supervisor and DOT management,” Deputy Director of Maintenance and Operations Brian Mullens states on Facebook. “We don’t feel that the damage warrants immediate repairs or closure. As you can see in the photos damage was limited to the 2 x 4 webbing on the east side railing. Bridge crew will reevaluate on Monday and schedule repairs as needed. We will notify Mosquito Fire and residents of any future repair closures.”
This is the second time since October that the bridge has sustained damage from a vehicle; on Oct. 29, a truck became wedged against the bridge’s railing, bending truss rods and breaking webbing along the side. MFPD o cials remind motorists to slow down and be careful while crossing the bridge.
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is to stretch. Just as physical stretching loosens and relaxes you, having an aim that pulls you toward it will ultimately end in a cozy state.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You’ll read the room with an intelligence that is communicated beyond the limits of language. Easy fun is your domain of expertise. People enjoy your games and be up for whatever excitement you propose.
you’ll put
in the
Before you
to be
into the
and responsive to
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Trying to be better counts as actually being better. But so does accepting yourself more fully, which is actually a much faster route to the
surroundings. As you focus on nding ways
self-consciousness
and
CANCER (June 22-July 22). To notice someone’s nervousness and assuage it is an act of warmth and inclusiveness that will not be forgotten. When people are comfortable enough to connect, magic happens.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). It’s said that home is a starting place where the story begins. You’ll carry the warmth and love of home out into the world. A paradox: Somehow, being tethered to the love that rst shaped you makes you feel free.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). The limits are o and it feels like freedom. You’re open and impressionable today, which is much to your advantage since the cheer keeps ramping up and your heart keeps following it to new heights.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Of course, your goal feels out of reach right now because the whole point of goal-setting
TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter ■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin ■ SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
Courtesy photos
Splintered and cracked wood can be seen on the east side railing of Mosquito Bridge as the result of damage caused by a vehicle Sunday, Dec. 22.
Investigation Continued from A1 the investigation, Directors Mike Martinelli, Heidi Hannaman, Steve Ferry and Chuck King opted not to have another investigator tackle the subject. It was decided on a 4-0 vote that the report and its conclusions released to the board and public will be sent to the Fair Political Practices Commission for review and the CSD will take no further action unless the FPPC comes back with a recommendation.
Mattock recused herself from the item discussed at the Dec. 19 board meeting and left the room. The Mountain Democrat reached out to Mattock for comment after the meeting; she did not respond as of press time.
“I’m afraid if we just continue this, we’re just dragging this out and we’re just spending more money and we’re getting a poor product for something that ultimately is up to the voters,” Hannaman shared. “And the voters spoke just a few weeks ago, when they reelected Director Mattock. That is the ultimate judge and she beat the odds, and she’s here. So I’m not really willing to go forward with keeping this open.”
EDHCSD General Manager Mark Hornstra said the district paid approximately $11,150 for the investigation and report.
Director Ferry agreed with Hannaman and made the suggestion to forward the investigation to the FPPC. “… if we really pin this down as hard as we can pin it down over the next three or four months, we’re just gonna stop getting things done that this board needs to get done.”
Director Martinelli echoed those sentiments, sharing he didn’t think another investigation would reach a different conclusion. “I don’t believe it’s necessary to have, yet again, another investigation tie us up further, bog us back down.
“Did we make some mistakes? Probably. Are there some things we can do better? Probably,” Martinelli added, “and I believe that we will figure them out and figure a better way forward. But it’s time; it’s time to move on. Put this to rest.”
“I think you said it best,” newly elected Director King responded to Martinelli’s comments. “If this is where we are, let’s move on. Let’s try to take care of some business.”
The investigation was prompted by Dean Getz, a frequent EDHCSD board meeting attendee and oftentimes critic, in early July and directors voted to hire an independent attorney to look into the issue in August. In a letter sent to the district, Getz claims both Mattock and Paulsen were aware that former EDHCSD General Manager Kevin Loewen, who resigned in December 2023, was working for district consultant DTA while also employed with the CSD. A report released earlier this year confirmed Loewen’s employment and noted it was a clear conflict of interest and violation of CSD policy.
That relationship, Getz alleged, led to district leadership’s refusal to sign a document attesting to the accuracy of LLAD assessments as prepared by DTA. El Dorado County AuditorController Joe Harn requested the letter after he expressed concerns about discrepancies in DTA’s work. Assessments were left off the property tax rolls for two years, amounting to an approximately $2.8 million loss for the CSD. The CSD Board of Directors later sued the auditor.
“... as documented in the Loewen investigation, President Noelle Mattock admitted knowing that Loewen worked for DTA,” Getz’s letter notes. “Despite this knowledge, she
chose to initiate costly litigation with the county’s auditor-controller rather than risk exposing Loewen, DTA, or her awareness of Loewen’s conflict of interest with DTA, etc.
“I assert that district records support the fact that ... Paulsen actively participated in the district’s deliberate evasion of signing the attestations for DTA’s work products mandated by the county,” the letter continues.
In a public statement made at the August board meeting, Mattock denied knowing Loewen worked for DTA and called Getz’s accusations politically motivated as she and Paulsen were up for reelection.
Paulsen did not publicly respond to allegations and did not run to retain his seat.
Attorney Jennifer Shaw with the Shaw Law Group conducted the investigation and prepared a final report noting:
Mattock’s and Paulsen’s explanations related to the attestation Harn required are more credible than Getz’s allegations.
It is more likely than not that Mattock and Paulsen acted for legitimate reasons in supporting the decision not to sign the 2022 and 2023 attestations Harn required.
Although the district lost revenue in 2022 and 2023 because of the board’s refusal to sign the attestations Harn required, the loss in revenue was not the result of Mattock’s or Paulsen’s alleged improper use of their authority.
It is more likely than not that the board’s refusal in fiscal year 2022 and fiscal year 2023 to sign the attestations Harn required did not violate any district policy.
Although the district is incurring attorneys’ fees in its litigation with the County, there is no evidence that the litigation is the result of Mattock’s or Paulsen’s alleged improper use of their authority.
EDHCSD directors and community members expressed many concerns about apparent holes in the investigation, notably that Shaw failed to interview Harn — a decision later revealed was made by Shaw on the advice of EDHCSD counsel Derek Cole as the district still has an active lawsuit against the county official. Shaw also apparently never requested email or text messages exchanged between CSD directors and the former general manager related to his consultancy business, which led several commenters to call it incomplete.
“This report has done nothing to satisfy my concern relevant to the issue,” King noted in a lengthy statement made before directors decided to move on. “I truly wish this had been a thorough, fact finding investigation with a solid timeline and a true effort to uncover supporting documents whenever possible so we could put this behind us and move on …. I believe a good investigation would have done so much more for the integrity, accountability and transparency of the board of directors and Directors Mattock and Paulsen.”
Getz expressed multiple frustrations related to the investigation, including Cole’s guidance of Shaw even though the CSD attorney had previously said he would not be involved in the process. He said the attorneys focused too much on whether Mattock and Paulsen gained monetarily.
“An example of a personal gain for a wrongful act is if a public official uses … the staff or any of the other resources of the agency to cover up n See INVESTIGATION, page A7
OPINION
A Christmas message
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus
By Francis P. Church, first published in the New York Sun in 1897.
We take pleasure in answering thus prominently the communication below, expressing at the same time our great gratification that its faithful author is numbered among the friends of the Sun:
Dear Editor:
I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, If you see it in the Sun, it’s so. Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O’Hanlon
Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been a ected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The external light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.
Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.
You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.
No Santa Claus! Thank God! He lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.
• • • Francis P. Church’s editorial, “Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus,” was an immediate sensation, and went on to became one of the most famous editorials ever written. It first appeared in the New York Sun in 1897, 117 years ago, and was reprinted
■ See YES, VIRGINIA, page A7
Richard B. Esposito Publisher
Letters to the Editor
A relationship with God
EDITOR:
God loves you. He doesn’t love you because you do everything right; he loves you because you deserve it regardless.
I always feel like i don’t deserve the love of God because I am a sinner. Everytime I sin, I run away from him in shame when the best thing to do was to run into his arms. It’s di cult living in the truth that you are doing something wrong but it is worse living in blissful ignorance.
I realized loving God isn’t about being perfect; it’s about seeking help because you aren’t. If you were perfect, you wouldn’t need him. When you are the most broken, that’s the perfect time to ask him to fix you. You deserve love. You didn’t choose any of this. You didn’t choose to be broken.
We are broken because it pushes us to find out how to fix ourselves. The funny thing is, the harder you try to put yourself back together, the more you crumble. The only thing that can put us back together is God.
I think the funniest argument is when people say, “if God is real then why does he allow so
much su ering?” As human beings, we are given free will. The su ering is a result of our misuse of our free will. If we didn’t have a choice of following God, would it really be an act of true love? Choosing him for yourself is the greatest representation of what love is. Having enough faith to give your life to a person you’ve never met is love. Bless it be to the ones who have never seen him and still believe. I pray all of you find him.
One day, you will have every Earthly desire and realize it means nothing; it never filled that hole. I pray when that day comes, you look toward the sky.
Dealing with the challenges of Christmas
CGLENN MOLLETTE Guest column
hristmas is a joyful season but always has some challenges. The place of Christmas is often a question. Mary and Joseph ended up in Bethlehem when Jesus was born. They had gone there to pay taxes. Paying taxes is never fun but something we have to do. The place they ended up when Jesus was born was probably not their desired location to bear their first child but they made the most of the location.
Location trips a lot of people up on Christmas. Many have no choice. They will spend Christmas in the nursing home or jail. Many have no options. They may be too elderly or sick to travel. They may not have any place to go. If you have options then be thankful. If you have a place to spend
Christmas then this is one of your best gifts of all. Don’t fight about the place where you will spend Christmas. Make the best of wherever you end up and celebrate with whoever is around. The presents of Christmas are often stressful. Presents are expensive and often we don’t know what to buy and how much to spend. You may have a lot of gifts to buy or maybe you don’t have a single person for whom you will buy a gift. If you can a ord to buy gifts and want to then enjoy the opportunity. If finances are meager this year, then be honest with yourself and others and say our list and budget is very limited this year. Don’t put yourself in financial jeopardy by spending money you don’t have. The greatest gift is the baby Jesus. Focusing on Him will bring more peace than a house filled
with gifts.
The pageantry of Christmas often becomes work. How many lights can you string on your roof or around your shrubbery? I enjoy putting up lights on a warm day but despise taking them down in January. Just remember what goes up must come down, eventually. Try to find a mild weather day and you won’t feel like the grinch.
The pressure of Christmas gets to a lot of people. People die in December. Loneliness takes over, Stress becomes paramount. People get depressed. Christmas should never be a time of loneliness, stress or pressure but it was a di cult time for Mary and Joseph. They were poor people. Bringing a child into the world in a stable would not be considered an option for most of us. Traveling was
a hassle and very di cult back then. While they were overjoyed with the baby Jesus, life’s circumstances were not easy. Later, they would flee to Egypt for the safety of their family which had to add to their pressure.
The person of Christmas must be our focus in order to truly celebrate this season. Let’s not lose sight of the main character in the Christmas story. If we do, then we will focus on the place, presents, pageantry and pressures of Christmas. Thus, we will miss out on the real joy that the heavenly host proclaimed to those shepherds watching their sheep. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men,” (Luke 2:14).
Glenn Mollette is an author and national columnist. Learn more at GlennMollette.com.
RILEY SMITH El Dorado Hills
The greatest gift is the baby Jesus. Focusing on Him will bring more peace than a house lled with gifts.
Tips to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
Elaine Murphy California Poison Control System
Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen any time of the year, but there is a higher risk for this “silent killer” during the fall and winter, California Poison Control System reminds California residents.
Each year, accidental carbon monoxide poisoning sends more than 100,000 people in the U.S. to the ER, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . CO, the chemical formula for carbon monoxide, can easily and quickly build up indoors, poisoning any person or animal that breathes it. It is produced whenever fuel is burned in stoves, grills, fireplaces, gas ranges or furnaces.
A very common source of carbon monoxide in homes is unvented portable generators. Instead of venting the gases it makes outdoors, the gas is released into the room. USAFacts reports that the use of portable
generators is associated with 40% of carbon monoxide deaths related to consumer products since 2009.
“Anyone exposed to carbon monoxide poisoning is in a lifethreatening emergency,” said Dr. Rais Vohra, medical director for the Fresno/Madera Division of CPCS. “Carbon monoxide is insidious, and people don’t realize that they are being poisoned. It’s a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas produced from burning fuel and totally undetectable to the human senses.”
If a detector goes off, assume that a real danger is present, and get all people and pets out of the structure immediately and into fresh air. Call 911 and seek medical help right away. Do not re-enter until a professional declares it safe.
Preventing CO Poisoning
• Install a battery-operated or battery back-up CO detector in your home near sleeping areas. Be sure to regularly check or
change the batteries in it to ensure it is functioning properly.
• Have your heating system, water heater and any other gas, oil or coal burning appliances inspected by a qualified technician every year prior to turning the heat on when winter begins.
• Never try to heat your home by turning on the oven or clothes dryer and leaving the door open.
• Make sure chimneys and vents are not blocked with tarps, debris or snowfall.
• Never leave the motor running in your vehicle when it is parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage.
• Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi or portable camping stove inside a home, tent or camper.
• Do not cover the bottom of natural gas or propane ovens with aluminum foil.
To learn more about prevention and the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning watch a video at youtu.be/3BT_hDb4uqE.
Yes,
Virginia Continued from A6 annually until 1949 when the paper went out of business.
Thirty-six years after her letter was printed, Virginia O’Hanlon recalled the events that prompted her letter:
“Quite naturally I believed in Santa Claus, for he had never disappointed me. But when less fortunate little boys and girls said there wasn’t any Santa Claus, I was filled with doubts. I asked my father, and he was a little evasive on the subject. It was a habit in our family that whenever any doubts came up as to how to pronounce a word or some question of historical fact was in doubt, we wrote to the Question and Answer column in the Sun. Father would always say, If you see it in the Sun, it’s so, and that settled the matter.”
Virginia O’Hanlon went on to graduate from Hunter College with a bachelor’s degree at age 21. The following year she received her master’s from Columbia, and in 1912 she began teaching in the New York City school system, later becoming a principal. After 47 years, she retired as an educator. Throughout her life she received a steady stream of mail about her Santa Claus letter, and to each reply she attached an attractive printed copy of the Church editorial. Virginia O’Hanlon Douglas died on May 13, 1971, at the age of 81, in a nursing home in Valatie, N.Y.
their misconduct, to pursue a personal lawsuit or otherwise shield themselves from accountability,” Getz said. “They’re deriving a personal benefit from the use of money that was intended to be used for the public benefit, not their benefit.”
EDH resident Bill Jamaca also shared his concerns with Cole’s definitions. “So I I’m disappointed that Mr. Cole sounds more like a defense attorney than an advocate for the citizens of El Dorado Hills,” Jamaca said during public comment. “His characterization of personal benefit seems way off to me. Personal benefit and political benefit are almost the same thing in this context.”
Cole didn’t respond to public comment but he did advise the four directors present that the entire board should take a close look at the district’s Board of Directors Code of Conduct and make revisions to ensure more clarity in the language as it relates to investigations of board members.
Gaines Continued from A3 Council and is currently serving as chair of the board.
“It has been an honor to serve as chair of the Board for 2024 and I am grateful to my colleagues for allowing me to serve as vice chair in 2025,” said Lieber.
Announcements
AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com
AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net
AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org
CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS
CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.
El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR
RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net
PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452. We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the
month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.
GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship.
MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.
SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started.
TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.
e spacious Independent Living apartments at Ponté Palmero mean you can continue your independent lifestyle with room to entertain friends and access to all the life-enriching community services and amenities we o er.
Floor plans up to 1,482 square feet | Private, attached garage | Full kitchen | In-suite laundry
You can continue to cook and entertain in your own home, or enjoy our chef-prepared meals in the community dining room with friends. We take away the worry of housekeeping and home maintenance, and provide social opportunities all month long. You can relax and spend your days with friends and family, and doing the things you enjoy most.
INDEPENDENT LIVING HOMES FEATURES
• Kitchen with full-size appliances and granite counters
• Private patio
• Attached garage
• In-home washer and dryer
• High ceilings
• Housekeeping, laundry, and trash service
• Basic cable and utilities included — stay warm this winter!
• Pets welcome
COMMUNITY SERVICES & AMENITIES
• Restaurant-style dining
• Swimming pool, hot tub, and outdoor grills
• Clubhouse and tness center
• Library and full-service beauty salon
• Activities, clubs, outings, and celebrations
• Transportation services
• 24-hour emergency maintenance
• Gated electronic entrance
We also o er Assisted Living Villas & Memory Care apartments for a full continuum of care.
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
Stellar student
Congratulations to Jason G. Sousa of El Dorado, who recently graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in avian medicine.
Now Freedom Church, 4414 Commodity Way in Cameron Park hosts a drive-thru Nativity open nightly, 6-9 p.m. through Dec. 27 (closed Christmas Eve).
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas” through Dec. 29. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
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. 26
Experience Hanukkah! Join the El Dorado Hills Town Center community and Rabbi Yosef 6:30-8 p.m. in the Steven Young Amphitheater for this cultural celebration. Enjoy the melodies of Hanukkah songs, savor delicious traditional foods, and warm your spirits with a variety of hot beverages. The menorah display will be on display through Jan. 3.
Dec. 27
Vitalant will hold an El Dorado Hills Stadium 14 & IMAX Theater blood drive noon to 2:30 p.m. at 2101 Vine St. The Bloodmobile will be parked near the movie theater on the north side. Donors will receive one in-hand Fandango movie voucher. Donors will also receive a T-shirt and $15 gift card from Vitalant, and donors must be opted into the Vitalant donor rewards program to receive these items. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM486 or call(877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.
RxEMEDY will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville 8-11 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Dec. 28
Get your dancing shoes ready, as local 10-piece horn band HipNosis presents an afternoon show, 3-6 p.m. at the Powerhouse Pub in Folsom.
Jerry Rabago will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.
Don’t miss the Sugarloaf Winter Camp re show, 7-9 p.m. at Imagination Theater on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Enjoy music, dance and Rama performed by Sugarloaf Fine Arts camp alumni, sta and special guests. Tickets available at bit.ly/ SSFWC2024.
Ryder Thieves and Red Dirt Ruckus will perform at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville 8 p.m. to midnight. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Black Irish Band will perform at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek 7-9 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Color them happy
Mimi Escabar Special Sections Editor
The entries in the annual Mountain Democrat Christmas Coloring Contest never cease to amaze the judges and this year was no exception. The artistic ability, attention to detail and a flair for originality was demonstrated over and over again in the entries. There are a lot of talented young artists in El Dorado County.
The judges — Jody Franklin, El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce director of tourism; Sylvia Coleman, artist; and Bill Robinson, artist — took their time in selecting the winners and were very impressed with all the entries.
“Each year we see such unique work. It is amazing how each child puts their own stamp on the picture,” said Franklin.
“The use of shading and color was particularly stunning this year,” said Coleman.
Robinson felt the way some children added extra details to the work made each so special.
The entries were judged on originality, neatness and imagination.
The winners along with family and friends gathered at the Mountain Democrat o ce on Placerville Drive to receive their prizes, have their photos taken and enjoy some refreshments.
There were several repeat winners and one winner was from Los Angeles. She worked on her entry while visiting her grandmother in Shingle Springs over Thanksgiving vacation.
The first-place winners in each age category won $50, a gift bag from the Mountain Democrat and a gift card from Gularte’s Pizza and Deli; second place won $20, a gift bag from the Mountain Democrat and a bag of popcorn from Nibblers Popcorn Company; and third place won $10 and a gift bag from the Mountain Democrat and Pocky Sticks from Chris Jones.
The winners
The 6 and younger winners: Third place, Harlow McWilliams, 4, Shingle Springs (Los Angeles); second place, Kayden De Lacy, 6, Camino; and first place, Wade Russell Hewitt, 5, Camino.
Ages 7-9 winners: Third place, Kyrie Johnson, 7, Placerville; second place, Jordyn Downey, 9, Placerville; and first place, Evie Schott, 9, Cameron Park.
Ages 10-12 winners: Third place, Eden Hustrulid, 12, Placerville; second place, Allie Schott, 11, Cameron Park; and first place, Evan Marker, 11, Folsom.
There was also
Annual contest entries delight the judges
FIRST PLACE WADE RUSSELL HEWITT, 5, CAMINO
SECOND PLACE KAYDEN DE LACY, 6, CAMINO
SECOND PLACE
ALLIE SCHOTT, 11, CAMERON PARK
THIRD PLACE
EDEN HUSTRULID, 12, PLACERVILLE
THIRD PLACE KYRIE JOHNSON, 7, PLACERVILLE
FIRST PLACE EVAN MARKER, 11, FOLSOM
THIRD PLACE
HARLOW M c WILLIAMS, 4, SHINGLE SPRINGS (L.A.)
FIRST PLACE EVIE SCHOTT, 9, CAMERON PARK
SECOND PLACE JORDYN DOWNEY, 9, PLACERVILLE
Cheers to a very Merry Christmas
To celebrate (or survive) this special time of year a specialty cocktail may be in order. Marielle Thoma, mixologist at The Independent Bar and Restaurant in Placerville, has put her creative skills on display with a series of holiday drinks and shared the recipes for two of her festive libation.
White Christmas Cosmo
2 ounces Chopin Vodka 1 ounce white cranberry
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
3/4 ounce Cointreau
Mix together in a shaker with ice and strain into a martini glass, garnish with a lime wheel and three pomegranate seeds floating on the wheel.
Winter Sour
2 ounces vanilla-chai infused bourbon
1/2 ounce pure maple
1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
1 egg white
Shake the egg white in a shaker until fluffy, add the other ingredients and shake and serve in a rocks glass with a large cube of ice, garnish with grated nutmeg and star anise.
There are many more festive cocktails to try at The Independent on Main Street in Placerville. Thoma is introducing new concoctions daily that feature yummy combinations to make for a spirited holiday celebration.
Winter windowsill flowering plants
Flowering plants will add color and brighten your living space during the winter months. Most inside plants prefer indirect, yet bright light, and, for that, east or south windowsills are the best. Direct sunlight might burn your plants. Plants grow toward the light so turn your pots regularly.
Most homes are about 50% drier than plants need. They like 75% humidity and good airflow through the leaves. The soil should be sufficiently loose to assure good drainage. Water to moisten the soil and let it flow through the pot. If the plant is in a saucer, empty the water. Let the plant dry out between waterings. A growing and flowering plant takes more water, and its fragrance is most potent in the morning and after watering. Feed the soil nutrients a few times a year depending on the specific plant’s needs. Keep windowsill pots apart to give plants room to grow. Trim wilted and dead leaves and snip healthy leaves to keep the plant shapely.
UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County
One plant that is sure to brighten winter is the Primrose, Primula spp. They can grow inside and outdoors and can add so many different colors to your windowsill. It does best at 65 degrees but can tolerate slightly higher temperatures indoors.
Christmas cactus, Schlumbergera x. buckleyi, is many gardeners’ favorite. Buds on the tips of the leaves produce the flowers. To ensure bud set for next Christmastime bloom, give the plant cool nightly temperatures between 50 and 55 degrees and 14 hours of darkness starting in November.
Schlumbergera can take full sun year-round and prefers less water than the average indoor plant. This plant can live for decades.
Fan Iris, Trimezia, also likes full sun and wants lots of water including spraying daily.
The Fiesta begonia is a colorful tuber with deep red flowers against dark green leaves.
Crown of thorns, Euphorbia milii, loves to bloom and likes to be kept on the dry side, but don’t allow it to completely dry out.
The African violet, Streptocarpus spp., is also popular and comes in many colors. It likes higher than average nighttime temperatures and to be watered underneath in a saucer. Be careful to keep water off the violet’s leaves and blossoms.
Cyclamen will bloom in a cooler windowsill and with bright indirect light. It likes a moister environment in both soil and humidity.
Mountain Democrat photos by Noel Stack El Dorado Hills Rotarians played Santa’s helpers at the
Above left, Rotarians
Brown and Nathan Hansen join club President Axel Hannemann, left to right, in sorting the donations club members brought to the Dec. 18 breakfast meeting. Above right, Rotarians Sherie Tobin, left, and Nathan Hansen wrap up the gift cards.
Mountain Democrat photo by Noel Stack
The Winter Sour, left, and White Christmas Cosmo are sure to delight family members wanting a festive libation on Christmas Day.
Kit Smith
Pixabay image
Indoor flowers add some brightness to the home during the gray days of winter.
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T
he Mountain Democrat’s Newspapers in Education program (NIE) was established in 2002 to provide and educational service arm for the newspaper.
NIE’s goal is to assist schools, teachers and parents in developing future readers who can use the newspaper to enrich their own lives and participate responsibly in their community, state and nation.
Not only does the Mountain Democrat provide valuable information on a wide range of topics daily, it also can be used as a resource for teaching numerous skills to various age groups and in many different disciplines. It helps students connect classroom lessons to the real world around them and develop a positive and
ASK A CARE MANAGER
The fight against ageism — our family’s story
About four months ago, our family’s life changed forever. Our fiercely strong, active and independent mother suffered two nearly back-to-back strokes. As a family, we were blindsided. Our mother was healthy, actively working and traveling. Throughout this journey there were days when everything felt uncertain; however, we tried our best to remain positive and present to support our parents to encourage healing. At times, this was a challenge as what we didn’t expect to experience was the sheer amount of ageism our mother would experience.
At approximately 3 p.m. on Aug. 1, I met my parents at the emergency room. They had just returned from a camping trip when my mother started having balance issues. I followed her back to the room, where we were promptly met with numerous medical professionals. A cat scan was ordered and we received the unfortunate results. She had had a stroke.
Shortly after the initial hustle and bustle had died down, a nurse walked in the room and asked, “How do you walk at home?”
My mom looked at me confused and before we could even utter a word, he repeated, “HOW. DO. YOU. WALK. AT. HOME?” Frustrated with his booming voice and slow pronunciation, I quickly stated that she was completely independent and walking fine before the stroke. Snidely, I added that she could hear just fine as well. After my reply, he quickly left the room without another word. My mom and I looked at each other in disbelief.
My mom quickly added, “I still drive and even buy my own groceries too.” Shocked, the physician quickly changed his topic of questioning. Unfortunately, these were not isolated incidents. My mother, a credentialed care manager and social worker, who spent the last 45-plus years advocating for the most vulnerable amongst us was now being demeaned and made to feel less than because of her age.
In 2022, The University of Michigan completed a study in which 93% of older adults reported experiencing at least one form of ageism daily. Ageism is a dangerous form of discrimination that has proven to lead to poor health outcomes, reluctance to seek assistance and/ or medical care and feelings of low selfesteem, isolation and loneliness. Yet even though the risks are known, it continues to occur.
According to the American Society on Aging, ageism can be categorized into five main types.
her who drove her to appointments. Clearly, this was before her reply about her driving/ grocery shopping ability.
• Interpersonal ageism: This involves ageist behavior or comments that occur between individuals. This can be conscious or unconscious behavior. For example, when the nurse repeated his question in a slow, loud voice as if my mother could not hear his question would reflect interpersonal ageism. He assumed because she did not immediately answer him and is 82, she was hard of hearing.
relevant lifetime reading habit. A study released by the Newspaper Association of America Foundation shows data indicating students in NIE programs do 10 percent better on standardized tests and that significant increases in student performances occur, especially in middle schools. Donations from our sponsors allow our educators to order the newspaper for their classrooms free of charge. These sponsorships contribute to literacy and allow thousands of teachers and students in El Dorado County to learn from a living textbook, the Mountain Democrat, and develop a life-long reading habit that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Please show these sponsors your support for the program by patronizing their businesses.
Shortly after our encounter with the nurse, a physician entered the room and boldly asked, “How’s retirement”? This time, my daughter Emma was present. Before my mother could even utter a word, Emma said, “Do you know who this woman is? She is an active member of our community who has been actively working in a business she started over 36 years ago. When not working, she has been traveling the world with her husband.”
• Internal ageism: This refers to how one sees themselves as aging individuals and may include discrimination against others within the same age group. For example, an older adult who blames age when misplacing their car keys would be considered internal ageism.
• Implicit ageism: This refers to the unconscious feelings, behaviors and biases toward certain age groups. For example, the doctor who walked into my mother’s room and assumed she was retired was practicing implicit ageism. He doubled down on this approach when he next asked
• Cultural ageism: This includes negative language, jokes and messages about individuals who are aging. For example, the word senior is used frequently when describing an older adult. However, the National Center for Reframing Aging has been completing an ongoing initiative to eliminate this biased term and include language that does not feel “othering.” In 2020, The American Medical Association issued new guidance that stated terms such as senior, elderly and the aged are discriminatory stereotypes that must be avoided.
• Institutional ageism: This refers to restrictions in laws, policies and practices. An example of institutional ageism would be a company forcing its workforce of a certain age to retire. During my years as a credentialed care manager, I have frustratingly encountered the five main types of ageism on many occasions. However, now being exposed to it as a daughter was a perspective I didn’t
Courtesy photo
Liz Heape-Caldwell with her mother Carol Heape.
Snowballed in Lake Tahoe will get music lovers dancing
Billy Drewitz Late-Nite Productions
TATELINE, Nev. — Late-
SNite Productions present Paul Oakenfold — voted the No. 1 DJ in the world by DJ Magazine — at the Bally’s Lake Tahoe Showroom on Dec. 28. Tickets are available online at Universe.com or by visiting/calling the Bally’s box office at (775) 588- 3515. All aspects of Oakenfold’s legacy are coming together with Perfecto 30 — a expansive series debuting in 202324 spanning unique global events, musical releases and exclusive artist/ DJ performances that reflect not just 30-plus years of the Perfecto imprint’s success, but the goalpost-moving achievements of Oakenfold, Perfecto’s co-founder and figurehead, as well. Indeed, it’s hard to separate Perfecto’s landmarks from Oakenfold’s storied history as arguably the first global superstar DJ, paving the way from Ibiza and the Glastonbury main stage to smash Las Vegas residencies as a hit-making producer for everyone from Happy Mondays to Madonna
expect to gain. I was watching the most important woman in my life suffer a major health crisis, while feeling disappointed and upset with how she was being treated.
One day, during a visit at the acute rehab, my mom and started talking about how she was treated. Through frustrated tears, she stated that those who had been tasked to care for her forgot who she was as a person. They had forgotten her human side. Not once did anyone stop to see her as the person she is, the contributions she has made and the thoughts and feelings she had. Instead, everyone made assumptions about her age, abilities and her present disabilities.
and U2; a pioneer of contemporary electronic music soundtracks for games and hit Hollywood movies like “Swordfish” and “The Bourne Identity”; and an innovator of DJ culture across genres, crucial in bringing underground club sounds from trance to EDM to a worldwide mainstream audience (and that’s just a partial list).
“Paul’s attitude in starting Perfecto was quite visionary, quite refreshing I think he started a brand, really, that also happened to be a label,” Pete Tong notes in the upcoming documentary “Welcome to Perfecto.” Perfecto 30 includes a series of remixes and DJ mix recordings featuring everyone Oakey OGs like Carl Cox to new jacks like Franky Wah. Meanwhile, Oakenfold plans to revisit Perfecto classics and deep cuts like PPK’s “ResuRection,” Planet Perfecto’s “Bullet in a Gun” and his own smashes like “Starry Eyed Surprise” (the hit collaboration with Crazy Town’s Shifty Shellshock from n See SNOWBALLED, page B6
They never took a moment to get to know and truly see her.
So, what can we do? How as a society, can we be better. In the wise words of my mother, Carol S. Heape, “We need to honor individuals and the lives they have and are living. We need to find a better way to truly see everyone as individuals, instead of their age and diagnosis. Remember that people are people.”
Liz Heape-Caldwell, is the co-owner and COO of Elder Options Inc. As a certified care canager, Liz works with the most vulnerable populations to ensure all individuals receive the care, advocacy, compassion and guidance they deserve.
Contest Continued from B1
special recognition made to adults Lynn Hunter from Placerville and Laura from Somerset who entered just for fun. Businesses co-sponsoring the contest were T.W. Bonkers Toy and Candy Emporium, Nail It Roofing,
Gardener Continued from B2
Forcing bulbs such as the Paperwhite Narcissus and Amaryllis can produce taller windowsill flowering plants. Place the bulbs in a container without holes, fill the bottom with something like marbles, place the bulbs root-side down and fill water to touching the bottom of the bulbs. Place the container in a dark and cool location, between 32 and 50 degrees (40-45 degrees is optimal), until roots develop. As it takes 12-16 weeks to root, you might have to keep this option in mind for future years. Forced bulbs do not rebloom.
Enjoy your bright windowsill plants by taking care of them and they will reward you with lovely blooms in the dead of winter.
Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. You can find a schedule at mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Calendar/ and recorded
Holy Trinity Catholic School and Tumble Time Kids. The coloring contest entries will be on display at Nail It Roofing, 6188 Enterprise Drive, Suite A, in Diamond Springs, through the first week in January.
classes on many gardening topics here: mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/Public_ Education/Classes.
The Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open, weather permitting, on the first Saturday of the month through February 9 a.m. to noon. First Saturday tour starts promptly at 9 a.m. Please check the website for further information about activities at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden at ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_Master_ Gardeners/Demonstration_Garden. Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the Ask a Master Gardener option on mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Ask_a_Master_Gardener or leave a message at (530) 621-5512. For more information on the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
