Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, December 28, 2022

House fire fatal

Odin Rasco Staff writer

A Placerville resident died in a house fire the afternoon of Dec. 18, according to Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Leah Yaws.

The fire broke out in a home on the 5000 block of Woodsman Loop, claiming the life of one woman who the El Dorado County coroner has identified as 59-year-old Maria Dryden. The house fire was reported at 12:33 p.m. and firefighters from Cal Fire and El Dorado County and Rescue fire protection districts joined Diamond Springs-El Dorado crews in the response, taking close to an hour to combat the flames.

The blaze destroyed more than 50% of the structure and one firefighter sustained minor injuries during the call, according to Yaws. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Grizzly Flat seeking federal land

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

In partnership with El Dorado County, members of the South County Alliance want to build a community center and recreational park in the heart of the fire-torn town of Grizzly Flat.

To accomplish this goal, the alliance appealed to the Board of Supervisors Dec. 13 to help the community acquire 5-10 acres of Eldorado National Forest land adjacent to the Grizzly Flat Post Office property.

In conversation with the board, Grizzly Flat resident and alliance member Candace Tyler, along with alliance treasurer Robin Kelley, told supervisors the project will help return a sense of community to the rural town.

“Lets be honest … Grizzly Flat has nothing to do. There is nothing there for the community,” Tyler said. “To put in a park … we can do barbecues and Frisbee golf. We can do things that are not necessarily requiring a lot of maintenance. The community needs a place that is centralized to go and gather as a community.”

District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo, who represents Grizzly Flat, brought the idea to the board of sending a letter to the U.S. Forest Service, which currently owns the prospected property.

The letter would ask for donation of the land or a land-use agreement for the property.

“I don’t know if it can happen or not but at least we can try,” Turnboo said. “I think it is a great fit for the community. They need something, especially

the great bike giveaway

Jana Rossi Staff writer

The Rotary Club of Cameron Park once again brought joy to almost 200 children this holiday season when members distributed bikes and helmets to various nonprofits in Northern California. Forty bikes went to children aged 3-17 in the Folsom Cordova Unified School

District.

A tradition that started in 2007 has grown to be a year-round event and Christmastime makes it that much more special. Beaming faces emphasized the importance of this program. This year the great bike giveaway began Dec. 19 at Folsom State Prison, where organizers

A fire consumes a house on Woodsman Loop in Placerville Dec. 18. One female resident lost her life as a result of the fire.

Photo courtesy of Van Dossey

Photo by Laurie Edwards

Cameron Park Rotarian Joe Ryan, front, and Alameda County Probation Department consultant Willie Bulda load bicycles at Folsom State Prison.

n See Grizzly Flat, page A7

Peggy Blackbern Meyers

Jan. 8, 1945 – Nov. 24, 2022

Peggy Blackbern Meyers (Peg-o) went home to be with her Lord Nov. 24 after battling stomach cancer for 5 years. She was born in Placerville Jan. 8, 1945 to George and Mary Jane Blackbern.

Peggy graduated from El Dorado High School in 1962. While attending her 25th high school reunion, she met her husband, Frank. they were married three and half months later on Dec. 5, 1987. Peggy and Frank had 35 wonderful years together. Peggy is survived by her husband, Frank, her two brothers, daughter, step-son, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Peggy loved life and all the family and friends who were a part of it. If you were a friend of Peggy’s, you were a friend for life. She always had a positive, cheerful attitude. Even during her years of cancer, she would end up encouraging those who had come to encourage her. She worked locally as o ce manager for Dr. Little who was a friend and a joy to work for. Peggy loved the outdoors. She enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and shooting sports. She loved working in her yard, and she was an excellent cook. She loved all cats-but especially her kitties, Tony and Gibbs, who will miss her. For many years Peggy participated in The Golden Goose Craft Fair, an event which she and her friends set up. She enjoyed creating beautiful stained-glass pieces and ornaments.

Peggy enjoyed many hobbies and crafts, but she is probably best known for her pickles. The number of El Dorado County Fair and California and Nevada State Fair ribbons decorating her refrigerator supports what her friends and family already knew: Pego’s Pickles were the best! Everything from sweets to hot dills, all were award winning. If anyone wanted her recipes, she was more than willing to share. In fact, she would invite them over and spend the day teaching the process from start to delicious finish.

Peggy’s loving heart, ready smile, and giving spirit were a blessing to all who knew and loved her. She will be missed. Instead of a funeral/memorial service, Peggy asked her family and friends to have a celebration of life to remember the special times they shared. It is being planned for spring of 2023.

Carole A. Martin

Jan. 24, 1940 – Dec. 4, 2022

Carole was born in French Camp, Calif. She passed away in Auburn, Calif. She was 82 yrs. old. She moved to Placerville in 1962 with her husband Jerry, daughter Cyndi and her son Robert. In 1963, they moved into their brand new home where they had a beautiful view of the snow covered mountains.

Carole enjoyed playing baseball on the women’s league during the summertime. She loved bowling and had a 200 average. In later years, she drove a school bus for Buckeye Union School District. Carole was a great cook. At Christmas time she would bake for days to make cookies and candies and fill many plates of goodies for family, friends and neighbors.

Carole was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jerry, her brother Donald and wife Ann, her brother Henry and wife Goldie, her nephew Ron, her niece Sandy and granddaughter Sarah.

She is survived by her daughter Cyndi and husband Joel Espinoza, her son Robert Martin and wife Susan, her niece’s Kathy Fuqua, Patricia Bishop, Judy Fuqua, nephew Michael Fuqua and many Grand & Great Nieces & Nephews. No services will be held at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for Carole and Jerry.

Ricky Davis back in jail

The man wrongfully accused of a brutal El Dorado Hills murder is behind bars again.

Early Monday morning El Dorado County sheri ’s deputies booked Ricky Leo Davis into the county jail in Placerville. Davis, 57, is accused of felony assault with a deadly weapon

(not a firearm) and a probation violation. He’s in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail.

Davis was arrested on Coach Lane in Cameron Park. No additional information about the incident is available at this time.

In 2020 Davis, who had served 15 years in state prison, was found factually innocent of the 1985 slaying of Jane

Anker Hylton after a years-long court battle. Davis always maintained his innocence in the murder where a knife was used to stab the victim nearly 30 times.

In late September this year, Michael Green was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison for the killing. Two months earlier Green pleaded no contest to second-degree murder.

The following was taken from Placerville Police Department logs:

Dec. 15

8:20 a.m. Officers arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance on Placerville Drive.

3:19 p.m. Officers arrested a 48-year-old man on suspicion of public intoxication on Fair Lane.

Dec. 16

6:10 a.m. Officers arrested a 32-year-old man who had a warrant out for his arrest on Tunnel Street.

12:29 p.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

8:25 p.m. Shoplifting was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.

11:13 p.m. Officers cited a 35-year-old man reportedly found in possession of a controlled substance on Center Street.

Dec. 17

1:51 p.m. Officers arrested a 63-year-old man who reportedly made criminal threats toward another person on Fair Lane.

Dec. 18

2 p.m. Vandalism was reported on David Circle.

Dec. 19

1:20 p.m. Officers cited a 61-year-old man reportedly found in possession of illegal drug paraphernalia on Coloma Street.

Dec. 21

11 a.m. Officers arrested a 56-year-old woman who had a warrant on Cold Springs Road.

11:48 a.m. Officers arrested a 25-year-old man who had a warrant on Conrad Street.

The following was taken from El Dorado County Sheriff’s logs:

Dec. 16

12:30 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 36-year-old man suspected of possession of illegal drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance for sale on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines. He was listed in custody in lieu of $2,000 bail as of press time.

12:57 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 42-year-old man suspected of multiple counts of theft, burglary, being a felon in possession of a firearm and other offenses on Ginger Road in Garden Valley. He was listed in custody in lieu of $1.3 million bail as of press time.

1:44 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

2:35 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Bancroft Drive in El Dorado Hills.

3:27 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Dunnwood Drive in El Dorado Hills.

4:55 p.m. Burglary was reported on Senator Court in El Dorado Hills.

4:59 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Product Drive in Shingle Springs.

5:18 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Cramer Road in Cool.

8:40 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 53-year-old woman suspected of a probation violation on James Boulevard in El Dorado. She also had warrants out for her arrest. She was listed in custody

in lieu of $34,000 bail as of press time.

11:20 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 39-year-old man suspected of DUI and a probation violation on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $13,500 bail as of press time.

11:53 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 29-year-old man suspected of hit and run, possession of illegal drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance and possession of burglary tools on Cameron Park Drive in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody in lieu of $130,000 bail as of press time.

Dec. 17

12:04 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 67-year-old man suspected of disorderly conduct and loitering on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was later released.

12:33 a.m. Battery was reported on Jennifer Lane in Placerville.

2:09 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 48-year-old man suspected of vandalism on Pleasant Valley Road in Placerville. He was released on $20,000 bail.

3:34 a.m. Battery was reported at

Stumpy Meadows Reservoir as of Dec. 21

Water storage 17,023 acre-feet

Percent full 80%

Inflow 11.00 cfs

Outflow 5.63 cfs

Folsom Reservoir as of Dec. 22

Water storage 286,081 acre-feet

Percent full 29%

Inflow 1,427 cfs Outflow 1,312 cfs

Union Valley as of Dec. 22

Water storage 159,520 acre-feet Percent full 60%

Inflow 0 cfs Outflow 0 cfs

Loon Lake as of Dec. 22

Water storage 40,935 acre-feet

Percent full 59%

Inflow 0 cfs Outflow 0 cfs

Ice House as of Dec. 22

RICKY DAVIS

the casino on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville.

5:44 a.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 44-year-old man suspected of DUI, driving on a suspended license and possession of a controlled substance on Highway 50 at Ray Lawyer Drive in Placerville. He was released on $7,500 bail.

9:13 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Cramer Road in Cool.

10:26 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 36-year-old woman suspected of possession of illegal drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance and possession of lost property on Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. She was released on $5,000 bail.

2:35 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

5:11 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 52-year-old man suspected of possession of illegal drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance and driving on a suspended license on French Creek Road in Shingle Springs. He was listed in custody in lieu of $80,500 bail.

Water storage 28,320 acre-feet Percent full 65%

Inflow 13 cfs Outflow 0 cfs

Caples Lake as of Dec. 22

Water storage 13,851 acre-feet

Percent full 62%

Inflow 0.00 cfs Outflow 8.57 cfs

Silver Lake as of Dec. 22

Water storage 3,269 acre-feet

Percent full 38%

Inflow 0.00 cfs Outflow 6.40 cfs

Sly Park as of Dec. 22

Water storage 26,364 acre-feet

Percent Full 64.3%

Inflow 41.90 cfs Outflow 16.60 cfs

American River as of Dec. 22 Flow 137.10 cfs

Noel Stack Managing editor

Sheriff: Neglected children, animals found at Garden Valley residence

Two Garden Valley residents were arrested by El Dorado County sheriff’s deputies following a search Dec. 20 that led to the discovery of five children and a variety of animals living in a state of neglect, according to sheriff’s officials.

Detectives worked with El Dorado County Animal Services to execute a search warrant at a

house on Bee Hive Court, reportedly locating a number of animals that appeared to be malnourished and neglected. As the search continued, five children were found living in conditions described as neglectful by investigators.

The parents, Jamie Gray, 40, and Daniel Gray, 39, were arrested and each charged with five counts of child endangerment and three

Odin Rasco Staff writer

to a call regarding an outbuilding that had caught fire on Center View Drive, El Dorado County

Fire Protection District firefighters reported they were held back from combating the blaze due to live power lines that obstructed their way.

PG&E workers arrived and rendered the power lines safe, allowing crews to directly engage the fire that also scorched another adjacent structure. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

in COVID-19 relief

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

Nearly 170 El Dorado County businesses were awarded COVID-19 economic impact grants Dec. 13.

Awardees received a cumulative total of more than $2.1 million with a grant maximum of $13,870 from American Rescue Plan Act and state and local fiscal recovery funds.

Combined, grant applicants reported a loss of more than $25 million. The requested amount from the businesses totaled more than $19 million.

While a few businesses recouped most of their revenue lost during the COVID-19 pandemicrelated shutdowns from the grants, many businesses only saw a fraction of their requested amount due to the limited funding.

Sierra Rizing bakery and café in Lotus reported a loss of revenue in the amount of $190,907. Similarly, Hangtown Welding and Equipment Repair in Placerville reported a loss of revenue of $114,889.

Some businesses on the grant’s distribution

analysis form even reported millions in losses, with the highest reported lost revenue coming from El Dorado Hills amusement and recreation business Power Pixel Entertainment, showing a nearly $3 million loss.

County staff developed the Small Business COVID-19 Economic

Grant to assist small businesses established prior to the pandemic that are still recuperating from the virus’ impact on the community. The Chief Administrative Office and the Economic Development division of the Planning and

Dr. Little’s Dental News

Presented by Jeffery Little, D.D.S.

AT-HOME OPTIONS FOR DENTAL PROCEDURE PAIN RELIEF

Dental exams, cleanings, and treatments such as filling small cavities do not usually require prescription pain medication. However, your mouth and gums may be sore after a dental cleaning or other treatment, and you may wish to try some pain relief options at home. Over-the-counter pain medications categorized as NSAIDS are a good choice because they reduce the inflammation often associated with dental pain. Swishing salt water around in your mouth is an inexpensive and effective way to speed the healing process and reduce pain. Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help reduce swelling and pain. A desensitizing toothpaste can help protect your mouth as it heals. Look for

toothpastes with potassium nitrite for additional pain relief.

Treat yourself to a little down time following a dental procedure and rest up instead of plunging right back into a busy work schedule following your appointment. You can always count on us to provide you with ideas for home care, answers to your questions, and excellence in dental care from a caring staff committed to your comfort, well-being, and sunny smile. Office hours are by appointment.

P.S. For a few days after a dental cleaning or treatment, choose soft foods rather than chewy or crunchy foods to speed healing and reduce pain.

Dr. Little provides quality family and cosmetic dentistry. His office is located at 344 Placerville Dr., Suite 19, Placerville. (530) 626-9127 Visit us at: www.jefflittledds.com

Courtesy photo

The Sheriff’s Office shared this photo of one of the neglected animals found Dec. 20 at a Garden Valley residence.

Odin Rasco Staff writer

California Commentary

What California taxpayers need to know about unemployment insurance

I

sincerely hope readers aren’t turned off by the title of this column. While most taxpayers aren’t directly responsible for paying unemployment insurance taxes, the truth is we all pay and, in California, we pay a great deal more than we should.Last week I received an email from a dentist who operates a small dental office and is required to pay the unemployment insurance tax and, sadly, is paying much more than he should because our unemployment insurance program is insolvent. Like so many other measurements of California’s performance relative to other states, our businesses — both large and small — are paying a penalty for the incompetence of our elected officials and bureaucrats.

Here’s what taxpayers should know about unemployment insurance.

California’s unemployment insurance program (UI) is funded by a tax imposed on employers. The proceeds are deposited in the Unemployment Trust Fund of the U.S. Treasury Department. States may withdraw funds from their accounts to pay unemployment benefits.

Here’s the kicker: If a state’s trust fund does not have adequate funds to pay benefits, it must borrow money from the federal fund to satisfy unemployment claims. But if a state’s UI Fund is insolvent for more than two years, that tax rate increases each year. The tax can be hefty, as much as $420 per employee per year.

Like other states, California was slammed by the pandemic. Low unemployment quickly became unprecedented levels of high unemployment. While few dispute the need for workplace closures early in the pandemic, California was much slower in reopening than more freedom-oriented states like Texas and Florida. This had a direct impact on the further decimation of the UI fund.

That’s just one reason why, by the spring of 2020, California’s UI Fund was depleted and continued to fall further behind. This required even more borrowing from the federal government.

Even worse, California was suffering from a second epidemic: an epidemic of massive fraud in the administration of unemployment insurance claims. On Gov. Gavin Newsom’s watch, the Employment Development Department failed to process a backlog of claims for hundreds of thousands of unemployed Californians while sending out as much as $30 billion in unemployment benefits for phony claims, including fraudulent claims paid to death

Letters to the Editor

Pollution and sea turtles

EDITOR:

S

Pollution in the ocean caused by coastal development and human activity is killing sea turtles and we should be doing everything we can to prevent this.

Some people might think it’s all right to litter in the ocean. Others feel that we shouldn’t be littering in the ocean. Some of the ways one can help clean up the ocean is to reduce the use of plastic, recycle properly and avoid products containing microbeads. In 1972, the Marine Mammal Protection Act made it illegal to to harass, hunt, capture or kill protected marine mammals.

Save the Turtles states, “Turtles were found everywhere; soon they will be nowhere.” This quote is referring to the fact that the sea turtles were found everywhere until we all started using plastic and let our community litter in the ocean. Then the sea turtles became endangered and soon could be extinct.

So I ask you nicely to stop using plastic and reuse things.

CRT concerns

EDITOR:

I

EDHCSD was advised of this illegality, but that didn’t stop the directors from suing and incurring tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees and expenses. Why should they care? It’s not their money; it’s the local homeowners’ money. You see, the EDHCSD has amassed more than $45 million in cash and has plenty of taxpayers’ money to spend without much accountability, if any. That becomes evident when you examine

OLIVIA STOKES ELISSAGARY

Placerville

In protest, Mr. Ferry thankfully resigned from his position as library commissioner.

ea turtles are endangered. Only 1,133,000 sea turtles are estimated to be left in the world. The pollution hurting sea turtles are toxic metals, PCBs (petroleum products) and agricultural and industrial runoff of contaminants such as fertilizers, chemicals, nutrients and unwanted waste.The far-right has come to believe that CRT is a plot by liberals and people of color to make white children feel guilty about our racist past. Reality check — CRT was first developed in the 1970s by a law professor and is the study of racism, its effect on society and endeavors to find ways to end it. It is primarily studied in law schools and graduate programs such as sociology. It is not something that the county would adopt as a policy because that is not its intention.

Firstly, while the darker side of our history is painful, our children deserve to know the truth and they will be better for it. Secondly, CRT is not some new, radical idea. It is a tool that has been used by academia for more than 40 years to end racism and discrimination. How can that be a bad thing? Thirdly, it is standard for government agencies to adopt the policies written by their national organizations and to have nondiscrimination positions.

Toward the end of the letter, Mr. Ferry seems to insinuate that it is Euro-Americans who are the true sufferers of discrimination. One instance that Mr. Ferry cites as proof is the lack of FEMA funding for the residence of Grizzly Flat. To believe that Anglo-Americans, with few exceptions such as Jewish Americans, bear the brunt of racism is beyond ludicrous and well into the land of makebelieve. While it is perhaps unjust that the residents of Grizzly Flat did not get FEMA money, it is difficult to call it racism since most of the residents of Grizzly Flat were White and our government is predominantly run by white people. To truly understand racism, I would strongly urge Mr. Ferry and others to listen to and read the stories of people of color. It will be enlightening.

would like to respond to Mr. Stephen Ferry’s letter in the Dec. 6 Mountain Democrat. In his letter, Mr. Ferry expresses his dismay at El Dorado County Libraries’ decision to adopt the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights. It seems that he was convinced that the adoption of the bill of rights was a plot to surreptitiously introduce Critical Race Theory into the county.The founders of our country believed that the ideal of equality was so important that they included it in the Constitution. Unfortunately, we have a way to go to reach that ideal. Until we do, our country will never reach its full potential.

SCOTT

TAYLOR Placerville

n Nov. 4 I requested a complete accounting of all EDHCSD legal fees. This request was precipitated by the 117-page lawsuit filed against El Dorado County AuditorController Joe Harn and the county by the EDHCSD for not placing about $1.4 million in assessments on EDC’s property tax rolls. The reason for this non assessment by the county auditor was simple: The EDHCSD did not follow the law.the district’s financial records.

It seems the EDHCSD spends money on itself and its perpetuation, which is the main goal of most government agencies.

EDHCSD General Manager Kevin Loewen is one of the highest paid government officials in the whole of El Dorado County — heck, maybe in all 58 counties — at an annual salary of more than $283,000, not including benefits. That’s more than the county sheriff, district attorney, chief administrative officer and almost every other county official, except a couple of county physicians (doctors).

I may be mistaken, but the lawyer for the EDHCSD may top them all. We shall see if I ever get the records duly requested pursuant to the California Public Records Act. All I get is delays from the EDHCSD officials handling this legal request.

EDHCSD’s new target date for supplying this information is now on

The Mountain Democrat welcomes letters up to 300 words. Letters may be edited. We reserve the right to edit submissions. Include your name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

Email: editor@ mtdemocrat.net

or before Feb. 1, 2023. That’s threeplus months just to add up some invoices. Maybe addition isn’t their strong suit?

Every year the EDHCSD spends tens of thousands of taxpayers’ dollars for accounting services to prepare an annual comprehensive financial report by the CPA firm of Richardson and Co. You would think in this 146-page report there would be complete breakdowns of expenditures for legal, accounting, salaries, office supplies, insurance, telephone, travel and other items in the operation of the CSD. There aren’t. It’s not broken down at all but divided into just five categories: general government, parks and recreation, maintenance, capital outlay and debt service with $8 million of the $10 million total broken down almost 50/50 between two of the five categories — general government and parks

and recreation. You would think legal expense would be a separate category, but it isn’t.

And that’s not all. The EDHCSD is getting richer while trying to get more money via tax assessments. In fiscal year 2020-21 the EDHCSD spent nearly $10 million and it took in more than $15 million in fees.

The EDHCSD bank account grew by more than $5 million. No wonder employees get the exorbitant salaries they do. In property taxes alone the district takes in $8.25 million. It gets another $2.9 million in park impact fees (mitigation impact fees), another $1.5 million in Landscape and Lighting Assessment District assessments and fees, $1 million in franchise fees, $1 million in charges for current services (user fees, perhaps) and more than $250,000 in interest. Other revenues amount to a

Main Office: 2889 Ray Lawyer

Drive Placerville 95667

LARRy WEiTzmAn

n See COupal page A5

Virgin Mary statue reported stolen on Christmas Eve

Odin Rasco Staff writer

A statue of the Virgin Mary was reportedly stolen from Westwood Hills Memorial Park in Placerville Christmas Eve.

The statue had been at the cemetery for a few years, set upon a pedestal in a corner of the park until it was stolen Saturday night, according to park office manager Marie Ferraiolo. When Ferraiolo arrived at 8 a.m. Christmas morning to feed some of the cats that live near the park, she said she discovered the statue missing and that the security light that illuminated it had been tampered with.

Security camera footage was unable to provide any evidence as the statue was not within its range of view, leading Ferraiolo to think whoever stole it must have entered the park through a breach in the fence alongside Cold Springs Road. The statue weighed around 200 pounds and would have needed a vehicle to move more than a short distance, Ferraiolo said.

Placerville police have been contacted regarding the theft and are investigating. Ferraiolo noted that the return of the statue is her only interest.

“All I want is the statue returned. I don’t want to press charges or anything,” she said. “I just want it back. No questions asked.”

Coupal

row inmates.

from A4

Much too late, after several legislative hearings on the lack of oversight of EDD, there were modest corrective actions taken. But this was the epitome of closing the barn door after the horses bolted.

If anyone believes that the massive EDD fraud didn’t impact ordinary taxpayers, they couldn’t be more wrong. California’s employers are directly responsible for the cost of EDD providing benefits on fraudulent claims, which means that all of us must absorb the cost of this inexcusable lack of oversight.

Perhaps the most important thing for taxpayers to know about California’s unemployment insurance program is how insolvent it is. EDD itself projects that at year’s end the UI Fund’s total debt will exceed $19 billion. Moreover, the U.S. Department of Labor confirms that California’s debt problem is the worst of any state, with an accumulated debt that exceeds the debt of all other states combined.

Again, in the competition between states, it is notable that most other states have no outstanding debt because they used Covid relief funds from Washington to pay down their Ul loans. For example, Texas approved a $7.2 billion payment and has eliminated its UI debt entirely.

What about California? Because of its insolvency, it must pay $470 million in interest payments alone to the federal government. That’s nearly half a billion that could otherwise go to education, transportation, or public safety. Worse yet, this is an annually recurring expense.

Remember just last June when California had a $95 billion surplus? That would have been the time to increase the payments to the federal government to reduce our UI debt. But now, the LAO tells us we have a $25 billion deficit “problem.”

So let’s just chalk this up as another missed opportunity for the Golden State. And citizen taxpayers, as well as California’s beleaguered business community, are paying the price.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

Weitzman

Continued from A4

paltry $130,000, hardly worth mentioning.

The bottom line, this district is rich and getting richer by the minute and there seems to be little, if any, oversight and/or accountability. As the El Dorado County Grand Jury recommended, a thorough investigation is needed on the operation of this government agency that acts more like a government slush fund.

Larry Weitzman is a resident of Placerville.

Announcements

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 334-2970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot. comt

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) 417-7138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net

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

LEArN & PLAy CriBBAGE Cribbage is a fun, fast paced game that will surely keep you on your toes! **All skill levels **Learn to play by ACC Rules (American Cribbage Congress) **Beginner instruction available **Compete in weekly Cribbage tournaments. Call 916-768-4452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at the Moni Gilmore Sr Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

Ready for real change?

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

Struggling with life? CELEBrAtE rECOVEry is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues

and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@ greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCrAts – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems. org for more information.

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

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

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

A 200-pound Virgin Mary statue was stolen from Westwood Hills Memorial Park on Christmas Eve.

Courtesy photo

n TODAy

ARIES (March 21-April 19). People will be interested in catching up with you. Brevity is the way to keep it that way. You’ll lead with a fun energy and keep your stories short and intriguing. Less minutia is more mystery.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Descartes said, “Cogito ergo sum,” or “I think, therefore I am.” Maybe, though it’s what we do, not what we think, that goes down in the records. You’ll make sure to line the two up today, putting what’s on your mind into action.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The level of fun you can reach correlates to the level of duty you perform. Just as soon as you complete your responsibility, life gets very fun and exciting indeed. But if you don’t fulfill an obligation, all else will be stalled.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You want all to do the right thing, including and especially you, since anything less makes you very uncomfortable. Stay awake and aware of social nuances. You learn a lot when you don’t expect everyone to be like you.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Everyone says unexpectedly silly things once in a while, but if you can manage to say them more often, you’ll break the ice, build rapport and help people feel comfortable enough to share real information.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). While no person’s reputation in the world is entirely under their own control, you have a good handle on what you think of you -- an idea that will translate into confidence that everyone around you senses and responds to.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). The ability to see things differently will be like a superpower. Life is kaleidoscopic now, susceptible to changing with the slightest shift of your position and vantage point. Slide over but an inch and the pattern changes.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Other people’s kind of fun can be an interesting experience, and you’re willing to give it a whirl. In the overlap between your kind of fun and theirs is an opportunity to expand your capacity for joy.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). An inner calm serves to sharpen you in unexpected ways. Your powers of observation are augmented. You’ll notice things about people, things that were there all along, but you’re now able to see with great clarity.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Of course, complaining is useless. If you can fix it, you will. If you can’t, there’s nothing to talk about. The simplicity of this will make your life and relationships much better.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Caution is often a sign of intelligence. But it is also possible to be overly cautious, micromanaging movements and stumbling in the process. You’ll find balance with a sweeping gesture of trust and goodwill.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The ones in the middle of the two-lane road are only as safe as the drivers around them. As much as you’d like to remain neutral, you’ll avoid trouble now by choosing a side and getting into the flow of traffic..

Giveaway

Continued from A1

and Rotarians gathered to load the newly refurbished bikes to go to four organizations — Folsom Moose Lodge, Alameda County Probation Department, Union Gospel Mission and Highland Charter.

Through the work of Cameron Park Rotarians, spearheaded by Joe Ryan, bikes and bike parts are collected throughout the year then sent to Folsom Prison to be refurbished by those incarcerated, a program that began in 1986. This year Folsom Prison inmate Frank Jachwak was responsible for refurbishing all 180 bikes.

“It’s been a lot of work,” Jachwak said. “I enjoy doing this and it’s good to give back to the community any way I can.”

The Cameron Park Rotary Club collaborates with El Dorado Disposal’s recycling program and the city of Folsom to save discarded bikes that would otherwise go to a landfill.

Rotarians deliver the bicycles monthly to the prison bike workshop. The bicycles are distributed to children, veterans and other adults in need year-round and to children in December to brighten their holiday season.

The Rotary Club accepts donations of bicycles, tools and parts for its bicycle recycling program. For more information contact the club at cameronparkrotary.org/singleemail/ contactus.

Rotarian Laurie Edwards contributed to this report.

MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis

Photos by Laurie Edwards

Incarcerated at Folsom State Prison, Frank Jachwak rehabbed 180 bicycles this year.

Jeremy 7, left, and Marcos, 8, are excited to receive their new wheels.

BearCat delivers

Relief Continued from

A3

Building Department suggested in June 2022 to the Board of Supervisors allocation of funds that were unanimously approved for distribution.

Grants were awarded to El Dorado County businesses that have been in operation since 2018 and demonstrated at least a 10% decrease in revenue due to the effects of COVID-19. The loss is based on revenues of tax year 2020-21 compared to base years 2018-19.

The businesses also had to be for-profit, independently owned and operated businesses with at least one full-time employee.

The county received 224 applications reviewed by Economic Development staff. The full list of the grant awards can be found at bit.ly/3V8wxmZ.

In November 2021 supervisors approved the American Rescue Plan Act funding for multiple purposes, including allocation of $4.13 million in ARPA grants in support of businesses and nonprofits in El Dorado County.

Based on the initial round of review April 25, the county leaders approved awarding 23 nonprofits the COVID-19 Economic Impact grants to eligible recipients in a cumulative amount of $1.9 million.

Grizzly Flat Continued

after everything they have gone through.”

During the first week of the Caldor Fire, which sparked mid-August in 2021 near Omo Ranch in south county, more than 600 structures were destroyed in Grizzly Flat.

Turnboo said he has had discussions with the U.S. Forest Service Director of Public Services James Bacon, who Turnboo claimed is “doing everything he can to help us.”

In an email to Turnboo and Board Chair Lori Parlin, Bacon said land acquisition may be limited as the Forest Service does not normally donate land but will continue to explore the option.

The board was unanimous in its decision to vote to have staff draft a letter to the Forest Service, recognizing the need for such a project in Grizzly Flat.

“That community center could be used for other things and can help the school too because you can use it for a gymnasium,” Turnboo said. “They can also have fire safe council meetings there and the community can meet there as well.”

South County Alliance members also touted benefits of acquiring the property for the proposed community center, which is centrally located in Grizzly Flat and can be used for multiple purposes including acting as a warming shelter. A community center was proposed even before the Caldor Fire, according to Turnboo.

A fundraiser held Oct. 28 at the county fairgrounds in Placerville raised $325,000 designated for a Grizzly Flat community center.

While discussing the logistics of acquiring the land from the Forest Service, District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl noted that federal land has historically been acquired by land exchange.

“There could be some administrative things that we would have to do before we accept the property if it is offered,” Hidahl said. “I gave the Planning and Building Department a little heads up that since this is a rare occasion … we need to understand what is the best path to take to make all of this happen as easily as possible without running into road blocks.”

Chief Administrative Officer Don Ashton said he has not known the Forest Service to donate land but they could be privy to a special-use permit or long-term lease.

“We have to be aware that having them donate it to us … I think is a heavy lift but it doesn’t mean it is not worth the ask,” Ashton said.

Ashton expressed his concern to the board about county staff being “at capacity.”

“If I look at the parks division, the number of board priorities are trying to implement is off the charts (and) unprecedented in this county between the Depot Bike Park, Diamond Springs, Chili Bar, the parks master plan … the list goes on, and that’s just that division,” Ashton told the board. “If we send this letter, my request to the board is to be very fair and realistic as to when the conversations will start or you are going to distract staff from other priorities you’ve already established.”

Congressman Tom McClintock showed his support for the project in a letter to the South County Alliance.

“It takes an entire community to rebuild after such a (devastating) fire such as this, which is why I urge the United States Forest Service to take full and fair consideration of your requests for obtaining federal land in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations,” states the letter.

from A1

These youngsters are happy to see Santa visiting their neighborhood a little early this Christmas.

Courtesy photos

El Dorado County law enforcement and sheriff’s Explorers on Dec. 23 invited Santa for a ride in the SWAT BearCat to help deliver gifts to more than 500 local children and families. The special deliveries were made possible due to donations from the Shingle Spring Band of Miwok Indians, Food Bank of El Dorado County, El Dorado County Deputy Sheriff’s Association and Walmart.

Odin Rasco Staff writer

Following years of research and analysis of current fire trends, Cal Fire will update its map of fire hazard severity zones that ranks rural and unincorporated areas based on anticipated risk of wildfires. As part of this update process, Cal Fire opened a public comment period regarding the proposed map Dec. 16 and will continue taking comment until Feb. 3.

The most recent wildfire hazard severity zone map was last updated in 2007; simply put, a lot has changed since then and Cal Fire leadership saw the need to update the map to reflect the impacts of climate change and other key factors, according to a news release from the fire agency. This upcoming revision will only update areas in California’s unincorporated rural areas where wildfires tend to be frequent, which are referred to as the State Responsibility Area.

The updated map shows an increased risk of fire overall, reflecting the increase in wildfire occurrence and severity

Abuse

in California. The map updates serve to better reflect zones susceptible to wildfires and provide communities a forecasting tool to take steps to prevent and prepare for fires.

Chief Daniel Berlant, Cal Fire deputy director of community wildfire preparedness and mitigation, emphasizes the importance of the information the map can provide.

“Ensuring Californians know the wildfire hazard in their area is critical to ensuring we all take the appropriate steps to prepare for wildfires,” states Berlant in a news release.

Cal Fire has created an online toolkit for the public with an interactive map and FAQ to explain the map update process and answer possible questions, which can be found at osfm.fire. ca.gov/FHSZ. For those looking to submit comments, Cal Fire will accept written and email comments and will also host a series of public comment hearings in the 56 counties that have SRAs.

Written comments can be sent to the address below, while email comments can be sent to FHSZcomments@fire.

Continued from A3

counts of animal cruelty, according to a press release from the Sheriff’s Office. Arrest documents show both Jamie and Daniel had bail set at $300,000. The two have since been released from jail custody and will face a preliminary hearing in early January.

Sheriff’s officials reported the five children have been placed into the custody of Child Protective Services.

ca.gov/FHSZ.

Office of the State Fire Marshal

C/O: FHSZ Comments

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection P.O. Box 944246 Sacramento, CA 94244-2460

Four adult dogs, four puppies and two parakeets, as well as several pigs, chickens, turkeys and a duck were removed from the home by sheriff’s deputies and are now doing well under the care of county animal shelter staff, according to chief of El Dorado County Animal Services Henry Brzezinski. One puppy was found deceased on the property when officials arrived, Brzezinski said.

Grizzly Flat

Pollock Pines

Georgetown Coloma Placerville

Shingle Springs El Dorado Hills

Auburn Lake Trails

In

the

KNOW

Stellar student

Congratulations to Alexandra Nichols of Cameron Park, who was named to the Trine University President’s List for the fall 2022 term. Nichols is majoring in math education.

Now

The Stormy Weather exhibit at Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom runs through Jan. 12 in the main gallery with the Folsom focus Photography Contest in the community gallery through Jan. 10. For more information call (916) 4616601.

The history-based scavenger hunt Miners on Main has begun. The game features 10 prominent historical figures of the El Dorado County Gold Rush for participants to discover as they walk a loop along Main Street, Placerville. There are 10 medallions “hidden” between Sacramento and Clay streets. Each medallion will include a unique QR code that participants can scan with their phones to learn about the individual who had some historical significance during the California Gold Rush. For more information call (530) 621-5885.

Dec. 29

Hattie Craven Band performs at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 7 p.m. For tickets, tables and livestream access visit tickets.clubgreenroom. com.

The Placerville Area Chess Club meets every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at Denny’s in Cameron Park, 3446 Coach Lane. For more information call Neville Arroues at (530) 642-9043.

Dec. 30

Vitalant will hold an El Dorado Hills Stadium 14 & IMAX Theater blood drive, noon to 4 p.m. at 2101 Vine St. El Dorado Hills. The Bloodmobile will be parked near the movie theater on the north side. 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.

Attend the Green Tie Ball with Golden Cadillacs at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 8 p.m.

For tickets, tables and livestream access visit tickets.clubgreenroom. com.

Dec. 31

Celebrate the New Year with HipNosis performing at the Gold Trail Grange in Coloma. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door and online at hipnosisband. eventbrite.com.

Ring in 2023 at the Red Dirt Ruckus East Coast New Year’s Eve Party at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville at 7 p.m.

For tickets, tables and livestream access visit tickets.clubgreenroom. com.

Jan. 2

Placerville Friends of Tibet hosts the Sacred Earth and Healing Arts of Tibet Tour, scheduled Jan. 2-14. The Sacred Earth and Healing Arts of Tibet Tour helps support Gaden Shartse Monastery in southern India. For more information visit sacredartsoftibettour.org.

Oak Ridge seniors CREATE a trailblazing idea

Sel Richard Staff writer

Oak Ridge High School seniors Rhys Thomas, Ryan Oselinsky and Alex Minnie nabbed the Best Presentation award at the Dec. 6 CREATE competition at California State University, Sacramento in which they vied against 24 teams from 17 schools across Northern California.

As the smallest team in the competition, the three faced schools fielding anywhere from five to more than 60 students. “The workload was much more than what I thought I was getting into,” confessed Alex.

The CREATE mentoring program is a 10-week project in which students work with mentors from the engineering, architecture and construction industries to simulate the process of planning, designing and building a structure. This year’s project asked competitors to present an idea that meets a community’s needs by using two or three shipping containers and a budget of $1 million.

Several ideas were considered, including a disaster shelter and an entertainment amphitheater. Ultimately, they decided on a Trail Box, which was in reaction to the El Dorado Hills Community Services District’s master plan and supporting research showing that trails and trail amenities are a high priority for area residents. In addition, the team liked that it was a project that could serve its duty year round.

Their proposed Trail Box houses a bike repair station with tools, shade, water for people and pets, snacks, an emergency phone, a first

aid kit, trail education as well as a bathroom.

“The idea was to make it easier to use the trails,” explained Rhys. “Anything you’d need.”

Three locations were suggested, including the CSD Community Center, the abandoned executive golf course and along the Poppy Trail on the hills of Serrano. Each box would be equipped with solar panels and a Tesla power wall to power lights and other equipment.

“We wanted the Trail Boxes to be in separate locations,” explained Alex, a feature that proved distinctive among a host of ideas that grouped multiple containers into a single facility. “It brought a unique aspect to it.”

In addition, Rhys pointed out their design addresses ideas of flexibility and expandability. “You don’t have to redesign

each one for a different location because they’re all standardized,” he said. “You can just build another one and put it out there.”

The Trail Box design sports an open layout allowing users to access vending machines and other amenities without going inside the structure. Doors that swing upward to provide shade and weather protection led the team to consult structural engineers regarding a lifting mechanism that could accommodate the 465 pound panels. The team was thrilled that electrical engineers and solar professionals all offered enthusiastic feedback that such an idea would be welcome in their own communities.

Rhys’ parents both suggested the competition as well as mentored his team. Rhys’ father Simon, director of planning for Taylor Design, provided design assistance and Rhys’ mother, Glynns of Glynns Thomas Photography, helped with project management. Robin Haller of Arcadis offered

advice and Kaylee Gathard of CAPCON, in particular, provided invaluable aid with the cost estimate portion.

The team also received feedback from EDHCSD staff, who were interested enough in the project that the teens have been invited to present to the EDHCSD Board of Directors at a future date.

The experience did evolve with its share of growing pains. “Our timing was really bad,” admitted Ryan. “We were really slow doing everything. We put a lot of thought into it.”

“It was a good lesson in not procrastinating,” Rhys agreed. “We had to learn about collaborating with each other and keeping up on all of the tasks that we had.”

Despite these challenges, all three have emerged more interested than ever in construction-related fields.

“It was really cool to see how broad the industry is,” insisted Rhys, who has applied as a mechanical engineering major at several colleges. “I

learned a lot about project management, not only how it’s done in the field, but how we do it here in our project — how we split up the roles, how you communicate with everyone to finish the project on time and put it all into a presentation.”

Alex is considering a similar major, but also has an interest in technical design for theater, having worked on multiple El Dorado Musical Theatre shows. One of his major roles for the CREATE project was recording and editing the video for the presentation. “I made a funny version too and honestly that was the most fun I had,” he shared.

Ryan, on the other hand, is more enamored by design and architecture. “I liked learning about how construction isn’t just about physical labor. A lot of it is planning, designing, finishing touches — so many different areas.”

While their senior year wraps up, the

el Dorado County author lassoes literary awards

News release

Local children’s book author Rae Rankin recently won two international literary awards for her 2022 release, “Show Day, A Cowgirl Lessons Adventure.”

The book was named Best Children’s Western at the 10th annual Equus Film and Arts Fest held Dec. 2-4 in Rancho Murieta. The story also received Honorable Mention for Children’s Picture Books, 5 and Under, at the 2022 Royal Dragonfly Book Awards.

“This book is not just any horse book,” said Rankin, who lives in El Dorado Hills. “It is a book about teamwork, good sportsmanship and friendship.”

The author’s note at the beginning of the book shares the inspiration for the story. “My daughter’s horse was injured right before a show and one of her teammates suggested they share her horse,” Rankin said. “It was a lightbulb moment for me to capture that true essence of what it’s like to be on a team.”

Rankin is an award-winning author and has had a career in the marketing and graphic design field both in the corporate world and as an independent contractor. She has always loved reading and writing and wrote her first book, “Cowgirl Lessons,” for her daughter and the lesson horse she loved.

Courtesy photo

Ryan Oselinsky, Alex Minnie and Rhys Thomas hold their CREATE competition award. The trio came up with the idea to set up special Trail Boxes along El Dorado Hills trails to help trail users.

“I liked learning about how construction isn’t just about physical labor. A lot of it is planning, designing, finishing touches — so many different areas.”

— Ryan Oselinsky

49’er Bail Bonds

Adco Driveline and Custom Exhaust

Adept – Med International, Inc.

ARCO AM/PM

Artistic Beads & Studio

Best Western Stage Coach Inn Burke Junction

CAPTRUST

Carbon Copy, Inc.

Conforti Plumbing Edwards A-1 Appliance El Dorado County Fair El Dorado Irrigation District

EN2 Resources, Inc.

Farmers Insurance – Sean Smith

Frank’s Body Shop, Inc.

Gordon Mott Roofing Co., Inc.

Kamps Propane

Lake Oaks Mobile Home Community Mountain Roofing Systems

The Green House Café Triangle Well Drilling Western Sign Co., Inc.

WSD

The 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

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.

Teaching kids to love gardening

It is never too early to introduce children to gardening. Nothing is more heart warming than to see a kid be amazed about growing a little plant. As the plant puts down roots and the little green shoots sprout out of the soil, children will learn and grow along with their garden. Encouraging kids to get interested in gardening is pretty easy. They learn by seeing their parents, grandparents or friends lovingly tending to their plants. Whether it is growing food or a beautiful flower garden, kids love to imitate adults. This action sparks curiosity about nature, how plants grow, produce food and/or flourish into blooms.

Obviously, gardening is a dirty, hands-on process — lots of fun for kids! The best way to start is to plan a simple project that is easy and rewarding. Prepare either a small growing plot or a large pot in which to grow plants. Convenient access, good

soil, lots of sunshine, wind and close proximity to a water source are all important.

It will be rewarding and fun to start with easy-to-grow plants with colorful flowers like French Marigolds, Tagetes patula. Another option, try edible Dwarf Nasturtium, which are great in a salad, since the leaves and flowers are edible. Sniffing fragrant flowers, like Pinks, Dianthus caryophyllus, or feeling the soft, furlike leaves of Lambs Ears, Stachys byzantina, awakens young senses.

By using the garden as a natural classroom, kids learn where food comes from by growing, tending, picking and eating. Try growing a kids pizza herb garden.

Since kids love pizza, why not grow some of its most important ingredients? You could include planting and growing little cherry tomatoes and various herbs like basil, parsley, onions, chives, peppers or garlic. The garden bed could be a circle, shaped like a pizza, with a slice for each variety of herb. An herb garden like this will need six to eight hours of sunlight each day. When harvest time arrives, celebrate with a homemade pizza party. By growing vegetables or fruits, kids see firsthand how food is grown. Other gardenbased lessons include pollination and the status of insects in the garden. Buzzing, busy bees deserve respect as they travel from flower to flower pollinating plants. Kids should know that there are good bugs, ladybugs, bad bugs, aphids and yucky but hard-working critters like earthworms enriching the soil. Kids learn that everything has a purpose. The many teaching moments in the garden give kids a sense of responsibility, an appreciation of the natural world and maybe their own love of gardening.

Enjoy and treasure your time in the garden with your kiddos. As the famous British garden designer Gertrude Jekyll said, “The love of gardening is a seed that once sown never dies.” So go ahead, plant that seed in your little ones and they will harvest the love of gardening for a lifetime.

Master Gardener

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Billy Hodges

Pauline Atkins

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

Photo by Pauline Atkins

The many teaching moments in the garden give kids a sense of responsibility and an appreciation of the natural world. n See GardeninG, page B3

classes are offered monthly throughout the county. Find the full class schedule at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/ Public_Education_Classes/?calendar=yes&g=56698 and recorded classes on many gardening topics at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/Public_Education/Classes.

three young men won’t take much of a breather. Alex, who works at Sky Sushi, just clocked in four shifts in a row. Ryan works at In-N-Out Burger and recently bought his own 2017 Ford Fusion after saving paychecks for six months. And Rhys spends his down time tinkering with an old 1996 Mazda Miata when he’s not taking pilot lessons. All unanimously profess Minecraft to be their all-time favorite video game.

As to whether they would be interested in pursuing their project to fruition after earning degrees? “I would do that,” Rhys said. “I would come back and do this.”

CREATE is a program of the Construction Industry Education Foundation in partnership with the Sacramento Regional Builders Exchange. For more information visit cie.foundation/ creatementoringprogram.html.

Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open December – February on the first Saturday for the month. We will offer tours, answer questions or you can just enjoy the garden. Please check our website for further information about the Sherwood Demonstration Garden at: https://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 or leave a message on the office telephone at (530) 621-5512. To sign up for notices and newsletters visit ucanr.edu/master gardener e-news. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

Awards

She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, the Northern California Publishers and Authors, the Arabian Horse Association, Motherlode Arabian Horse Association and the Daughters of the American Revolution.

In addition to “Show Day,” Rankin has published seven other books including her latest release, “Meet the Birds,” a book which teaches preschoolers to count and features 10 North American bird species. Signed copies of her books are available on Rankin’s website RaeRankin.com. She is currently working on her ninth book. which she anticipates releasing in 2023.

CHARLOTTE, NC 28203-6735

MARINO 1012 COLUMBIA CIRCLE

DORADO HILLS, CA 95762-3771

all others claiming an interest in the above described property, namely: $120,260.00

CURRENCY

is hereby given, pursuant to Title 63 O.S.A. Sec. 2-503, et. seq., of the seizure on APRIL 9, 2022, of the above referenced $120,260.00

by the State of Oklahoma and the intended forfeiture of the above-described property by the State of Oklahoma pursuant to 63 O.S. § 2-503(A)(6) and/ or 2-503 (A) (7), as said currency was furnished, or intended to be furnished, in exchange for a controlled dangerous substance in violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Act, or consists of proceeds traceable to such an exchange, and/or are monies, negotiable instruments, and securities used, or intended to be used, to facilitate a violation of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Act; or was monies, coin and currency found in close proximity to forfeitable records of the importation, manufacture or distribution of substances, which are rebuttably presumed to be forfeitable under the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Act.