Mountain Democrat, Friday, February 28, 2025 by mcnaughtonmedia

Federal freeze pauses fire

Pimlott

Courtesy

NASA Astronaut and Marine Corps Col. Nicole A. Mann, left, and Chris Volek pose for a photo. Volek, an EDHS grad, is working on a project to send astronauts back to the moon.

EDHS alum part of Artemis Project

El Dorado Union

High School District

News release

El Dorado High School graduate

Chris Volek is helping shape the future of space exploration by contributing to one of

NASA’s most ambitious space missions — Artemis. From excelling in high school athletics and academics to becoming a design and analysis engineer at Boeing, Volek has taken a remarkable journey that has led him to play a role in returning humans to the moon.

Journey from high school to aerospace engineering

Throughout his time at El Dorado High School, Volek said he found inspiration and support from many teachers, particularly in the math department. He credits Mr. Angelo, Mr. Round and Mr. Orris for challenging and encouraging him, fostering a deep

Danza Azteca honors tradition

Shelly Thorene

Sta writer

Danza Azteca group Ocelotecame performed for the residents of Lake Oaks Mobile Home Community Saturday night in Diamond Springs. Two drummers provided the resounding rhythm to which the feathered dancers adorned with Aztec leg rattles (shell-like seed pods containing small stones) twirled and rattled across the ﬂoor.

The drumming on stage created a dramatic entrance for 11 dancers.

After the ﬁrst dance, dancer and spokesperson Benjamin Ignacio, 45, of Lincoln greeted the crowd in Spanish, assisted by translator/dancer Mia Guzman, also of Lincoln. “Buenos noches! We are happy to be here to share our culture with you to keep it alive. Our ancestors left it (the dance) as our inheritance.” Ignacio said the

name “Ocelotecame” means jaguar warrior in Nahuatl, his native language. He said the traditions in his village in Guerreo, Mexico, are still alive and he is happy to share them with people. He stressed that the dance is not “folklorico,”

which has its origins in Spain. Ocelotecame’s dances are instead “prayers.”

Ignacio outlined the dances to be performed: Rabbit Dance, Rain Dance, Fire Dance and Maize Dance. Ignacio said the feathers for the

headdresses are from a source in Madera and are transported in mailing tubes to each event where they are reassembled, some measuring several feet in diameter. The group was

photo

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

The Danza Azteca group Ocelotecame out of Lincoln performs at the Lake Oak Mobile Home Community clubhouse on Feb. 22.

Belinda Munoz, 17, of Lincoln, right, applies face make-up on Francisco Augilar of West Sacramento, left,

in Diamond Springs. The Danza Azteca

ESSENTIALS

OBITUARIES

Elmer Clarence “Cleve” Cleveland, Jr.

June 4, 1938 – Feb. 18, 2025

Cleve was born June 4, 1938 in Zylks, Louisiana and passed away quietly in his home in Camino, California, February 18, 2025. He is survived by: his wife, Karen Cleveland (ne: Andreen); brothers, Daniel Cleveland of Shreveport, Louisiana and Reuben Cleveland of Springhill, Louisiana; 3 Sons, Robert, David, John and daughter Karen Lynn Allen (ne Cleveland); Nephew, Marty Adamson; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; and many beloved friends. He is preceded in death by his mother, Georgia L. Smith Cleveland; father, Elmer C. Cleveland, Sr.; brother, Charles Cleveland of Shreveport, Louisiana; nephew, Je Turner; and grandson Cody Cleveland.

Stanley David Rudger

Feb 19, 1945 – Feb 13, 2025

Ron Murphy

April 7, 1935 – Feb. 14, 2025

Cleve was born in a tent home in Zylks, Louisiana after which the family moved to El Dorado, Arkansas.

He entered the Navy in 1956, earning a Good Conduct Medal, and being honorably discharged in October of 1960. While in the Navy he met many life-long friends, one being John Ruthafurd who introduced him to his ﬁrst wife Constance “Connie” June Ruthafurd. After getting out of the Navy he immediately went to work as well as starting college, studying accounting. Cleve and Connie began making a good life by adding to their family two children while living in El Monte, California. The riots of 1965 inﬂuenced Cleve and Connie to relocate to the foothills of Northern California so as to raise their family in a more friendly environment. Upon which, they bought a house in what was the beginnings of what we now call Apple Hill. It was here they had two more children and added to their growing family by raising two nephews.

Cleve was very hard working so as to support his young family, sometimes working more than one job. This led to being hired by Suede Peterson in the spring of 1967 which began his career at the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce. Once hired, he began as a jailer. He was soon promoted to patrolman where he worked alongside Don McDonald, Richard Pacileo, and many others. It was more than just a job to him which gave him many great achievements. Cleve had a way of dealing with people in the most personable and caring way, all the while maintaining a professional manner. In the late 70s, early 80s he became head of the Coroner Division and became part of the sheri ’s diving team. Soon after this he became a signiﬁcant part of the creation of the Sheri ’s Civil Division of which he headed along with the Coroner division until his retirement in the nineties.

He met the second love of his life in 1985, marrying Karen Andreen in February of 1987. This began many great years of being together and added two more daughters and more grandchildren to his family. Upon Cleve’s retirement. much time was spent traveling, hiking, ﬁshing, and spending time with friends and family. Being an active person he didn’t stay completely retired as he went back to work for the El Dorado County Sheri ’s Department where he served on the County Sheri ’s patrol boat on Lake Tahoe for several years. After tragedy struck the U.S. on September 11, 2001, Cleve went back to the Sheri ’s o ce, contracting as a Security O cer for the courts.

He and wife Karen spent the past 20 years living on ten acres with a view that he loved on an estate that he helped create with his son, John Cleveland. It was here that he decided to spend his remaining time with the memories of his son, granddaughter and great grandsons, four generations of family that he began in the 1960’s. Since Cleve was an honorably discharged Navy Veteran, a family service will be provided for by the Veterans Administration. Details will be forthcoming at a later time.

His family and friends will be having a Celebration of Life, March 22, beginning at noon in the Marshall Reception Hall at the El Dorado County Fair & Event Center. We will share memories, have some of Cleve’s favorite foods and drinks, and spend some time honoring cherished memories of this very special man. If you would like to be a part of this celebration, please RSVP to cleveobitRSVP@gmail.com.

Billie Jean Nichols

Dec 9, 1944 – Dec 19, 2024

Billie Jean Nichols, age 80, passed away on December 19th, 2024 at her Placerville, CA home with her children and best friend by her side. Billie Jean was born in San Jose CA, on December 9th 1944, the 1st child of William (Bill) and Eugenia (Jean) Squglio. She lived an active outdoor life and enjoyed waterskiing, motorcycle riding, camping, ﬁshing, traveling and gardening. While at home she loved to read, complete puzzles, watch the local wildlife on her property, and spend time with family and friends. Billie Jean worked in the electronics industry in what would become Silicon Valley and later, in the Real Estate ﬁeld alongside her husband Del. She was preceded in death by her infant son Robbie, her sister Suzanne, her parents and her husband Del. She will be deeply missed by her children Robin and Erik, her 4 grandchildren, her sisters Diane and Darlene, her brother Michael, her longtime caregiver and best friend Kathy and many others, in her family and in her community, that knew and loved her.

Rev. Mr. Stanley David Rudger, Deacon for the Diocese of Sacramento, a devoted servant of God and his community, passed away peacefully at nearly 80 years old. His journey of faith led him from his birthplace in San Jose, CA, to a mission in Alaska where he met the love of his life, Paula (Schickler) Rudger. After marriage and the births of his two children, Aaron Rudger and Marcy (Rudger) Ulrich, Stan moved to the Sierra Nevada foothills, where he found his spiritual home at St. Patricks Catholic Church in Placerville. There, he answered the call to become a Deacon, a ministry he embraced with unwavering dedication. After retiring from a 30 year career as an educator, he continued his ministry at St. Josephs Parish in Lincoln, where he leaves a legacy of love and compassion. Deacon Stan’s commitment to service extended beyond the church walls. A lifelong learner, he earned Bachelor and Master degrees from Cal State Hayward and a degree in Theology from UC Berkeley. He was proud to be a 4th degree Knight of Columbus and helped to found the chapter at St. Patricks Church in Placerville. He shared his knowledge as a teacher and coach, most notably guiding his daughter’s high school basketball team for multiple years. His 56-year marriage to his beloved Paula whom he a ectionately called “PJ”, was a source of inspiration, particularly for the many couples whose weddings he o ciated and of course to his children and grandchildren. Paula was a tremendous source of love and support in the last few years of his illness. Her devotion to him and in turn his appreciation of her was a true testament to their love of each other and their unwavering faith in the Lord. Stanley leaves behind his twin sister, Pamela (Rudger) Lynn, elder brother, Donald Rudger, his wife Paula, their children Aaron (Kristen) and Marcy (Marc), five grandchildren (Jacob, Emily, & James Rudger, Quinlan & Gri n Ulrich), and one great-grandchild (Joseph James White) whom he treasured. He will be remembered for his deep spirituality, his uncommon commitment to his family and church, his joy found in fishing, golfing, travel & music, and his unsuppressable humor. Friends honored his life with visitation, Friday, February 21, 2025 4:00pm at St. Joseph Church, Lincoln where a Rosary and Vigil Service were held at 5:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated, Saturday, February 22 at 11:00 am at St. Joseph with a reception following. Private Interment at St Patrick Cemetery, Placerville. Live Stream of Saturday service can be found at www. stjosephlincoln.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: St Josephs Church Lincoln - Family Center, 280 Oak Tree Ln., Lincoln CA 95648. Phone: (916) 645-2102.

Mark Mitchell

Jan. 14, 1946 – Feb. 14, 2025

Mark passed on February 14, 2025 at 3:18 a.m. in Placerville, California. He is survived by his wife of forty-eight years, Elizabeth Gayle Mitchell, and daughter Ashland Elizabeth Aube. A true patriot and traditionalist, Mark grew up in South Carolina, served his country honorably as a member of the United States Marine Corps, and attended the University of South Carolina before taking his wife and daughter on a wild series of adventures spanning the entire east coast, eventually landing in El Dorado Hills California and calling it home. After a successful career climbing the corporate ladder in telecommunications, Mark spent his later years embracing time with friends and family, taking walks, and enjoying the companionship of his various rescue dogs. Mark loved the ocean and Motown and travel. He enjoyed good food, the symphony, and was deeply passionate about college football. Mark will be celebrated in an intimate gathering of pause and reﬂection on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the Chapel at Green Valley Mortuary in Rescue, California.

Sherry Leanne (Mason) Bergenholtz

June 5, 1937 – Jan. 11, 2025

Sherry Leanne (Mason) Bergenholtz, age 87, departed this life on January 11, 2025 and was reunited with her husband, James Clayton Bergenholtz, in heaven. She was born on June 5, 1937 in Los Angeles, Calif. to parents Myrtle Isabelle (Potter) and George Albert Mason. She was the youngest sister of Billie Marie and Donna Jean. Sherry and her husband Jim were longtime supporters of Kulpahar Children’s Home, a Christian run orphanage and school in India. Sherry loved her Lord Jesus, her family, the ocean and crafting. She knitted nearly 2000 hats for cancer patients and over a hundred quilts for family, friends, and missions. In addition to raising two children, she had a career in banking culminating as an Executive Secretary for Bank of America in Placerville. She found great satisfaction in being of service to her community and her church. Sherry will be greatly missed by children Jim and LIsa Bergenholtz of Shingle Springs Ca.,Chris and Susan Renfro of Donnelly Id.; grandchildren Alisha Scott, Jeremiah Renfro, Amy Renfro , Laural Bergenholtz, Jacob Renfro and Mason Bergenholtz; great grandchildren Lauryn, Clayton and Easton Scott; and other family and friends. Deut.31:8 NIV “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you” (a favorite verse of hers) No services will be held.

Ron was a force of nature, admired by all who knew him. His fantastic sense of humor and infectious personality acted as a magnet. If you KNEW Ron Murphy, you were drawn to him. He possessed one of those rare personality types who got along with everyone. Always on the move, Ron LOVED to create. From building his own homes, to turning his entire property into a living work of art — Ron had an incredible work ethic and everything within his orbit — he’d built with his own two hands.

Quite accomplished in a variety of industries, Ron spent the twilight of his professional career as a well-respected owner/Broker of a real Estate company with his wife Jan. Recreationally, Ron’s passion was playing on a traveling Senior Softball team for over 30 years — well into his 89th and ﬁnal year of life!

Ron loved life, loved people and prioritized family-time. His ability to get along with all that came across his path was remarkable. He infused these attributes into his Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren, who will all do their best to honor him by carrying on these traits. We love you and will miss you immensely dad.

Ron leaves behind his wife Jan of 70 years, the enduring memories of his late daughter Cyndy, children Timothy, Cheryl, Michael and Tammy - Grandchildren Daniel, Christopher, Shannon, Jennifer and 12 wonderful Great Grandchildren. Heartfelt thanks to Melissa at Snowline Hospice and their entire sta who not only provided exemplary care, but enabled dad to live the ﬁnal chapter of his life on his own terms at his family home — enjoying his property, and all that loved him.

Robert “Bobby” Anthony Nattrass Jr.

April 6, 1990 – Dec 31, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert “Bobby” Anthony Nattrass Jr, who left us far too soon on December 31st, 2024, at the age of 34. Born on April 6, 1990, in Santa Cruz, California, Bobby was the beloved son of Marin and Robert Nattrass Sr and the cherished older brother of Nicolas James Nattrass and Phillip Clement Nattrass. Father to sweet Robert “Baby Bobby” Anthony Nattrass III. Bobby was deeply loved by his large and close-knit family, including his many aunts, uncles and cousins, who were more like siblings to him. His presence brought warmth, laughter, and an undeniable sense of camaraderie to every gathering. A man of many talents, Bobby had an unmatched ability to pick up new skills with ease. He was an exceptional mechanic, construction worker, and cook, always impressing those around him with his quick learning and craftsmanship. His passion for anything with an engine—whether it was working on cars or riding motorcycles—was evident in everything he did. Bobby also had a green thumb, nurturing plants with the same care and patience he showed those he loved. Above all, Bobby had one of the biggest hearts. If you ever needed a helping hand, he was there-with a smile, a calm demeanor, and his trademark sense of humor. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering support will be profoundly missed, though we take comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched. Bobby’s presence in our lives was a gift, and while we grieve his passing, we also celebrate the incredible person he was. His memory will remain forever in our hearts. A memorial service to honor Bobby’s life will be held at Green Valley Church on February 27th at 1pm.

Janice “Jan” Emily Janssen

Nov 29, 1941 – Feb 15, 2025

Janice E. (Lewin) Janssen, 83, formerly of Cameron Park, CA and beloved wife of Louis Janssen, passed away on February 15, 2025 at Cogir of Folsom, where she resided for a year with dementia. She was born on a dairy farm in Richville, MN. A twin and the youngest of 8, she grew up loving nature, skating on the lakes, singing, and playing guitar and the organ. She graduated from Perham High School and St. Cloud University with a BS in Elementary Education. After college, she taught school in Colorado with her twin sister Joan. They both moved to Bad Kreuznach, Germany and taught on the U.S. Army base. Jan also taught in Okinawa, Japan for a year, and then moved to California in August of 1968. She met the love of her life, Lou, 10 days after arriving in California, and they were married a year later. Jan taught kindergarten for 35 years in San Jose. When she retired, she and Lou moved to El Dorado Hills. Jan loved to ice skate, garden and travel around the U.S. and world. She and Lou were inseparable. They loved adventures in their motor home, traveling around the mountains in California and Nevada, enjoying the solitude of nature. Thank you to her caregivers at Cogir of Folsom and to Cain Fiduciary Services. She leaves her husband of 55 years, Louis Janssen, brother Paul Lewin of Richville, MN and ten nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Anna Margreta and Erick Lewin; sisters Joyce Weir, Lily Ann Gosswiller, Dawn Klement and Joan Orton; brother Weldon Lewin and infant brother, Raymond Lewin. Jan’s ashes will be spread at a later date in the mountains.

Law enforcement agencies converge in El Dorado County ... for lunch

Chris Woodard Sta writer

El Dorado County Sheri Je Leikauf hosted the Northern California Peace O cers Association luncheon with other local law enforcement agencies at Red Hawk Casino on Feb. 20.

Placerville, South Lake Tahoe and the Red Hawk Tribal police departments joined Leikauf in the APEX meeting room in Red Hawk Casino to share law enforcement updates and raise money for the NCPOA nonproﬁt.

Also in attendance was Rep. Tom McClintock, who o ered his thanks to law enforcement in Placerville and El Dorado County.

“As many of you may know, Placerville used to be known as

‘Hangtown,’ so you know we take law enforcement seriously around here,” said McClintock at the event.

California Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil attended and commended California

EL DORADO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE CRIME LOG

The following information was taken

6:14 a.m. Trespassing reported on Richardson Circle in El Dorado Hills.

9:49 a.m. Battery reported at an apartment complex on Market Court in Shingle Springs.

9:50 a.m. Battery reported at the county jail on Forni Road in Placerville.

3:50 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 55-year-old man suspected of probation violations on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines. He was later released.

4:17 p.m. Trespassing reported on Omo Ranch Road in Somerset.

5:33 p.m. Trespassing reported at a store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

6:12 p.m. Trespass reported on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

8:07 p.m. California Highway Patrol

o cer booked into jail a 45-year-old man suspected of DUI on Post Street in El Dorado Hills. He was later released.

Jan. 24

9:07 a.m. Trespassing reported at a hotel on Highway 50 in Kyburz.

11:18 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 43-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Highway 50 in Shingle Springs. He was later released.

4:03

5:13

of probation violations on Green Valley Road in El Dorado Hills. She was later released.

5:50 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 33-year-old man suspected of identity theft, possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia and driving on a suspended license on Green Valley Road in El Dorado Hills. He was listed in custody in lieu of $100,000 bail.

secured by Lake Oaks resident Joan Justi, 86, who said she had experience as a producer in Las Vegas with performers such as Huey Lewis and the News. According to some residents, Justi brings a whole new level of entertainment to the park. Justi said a friend had seen this dance group perform in Roseville and recommended them.

The clubhouse shows are only open to park residents and their guests.

Emcee Susan Lofgren, aka the Mayor of Lake Oaks, commented that the events coordinated by the Friends of Music Committee and Justi “are the best kept secret in El Dorado County,” boasting the entertainment is top notch and in the past has included plays, murder mysteries and an Elvis impersonator.

“It’s like living on a cruise ship,” Lofgren shared, adding, “It’s nice to go out without having to drive anywhere. Some people drive their golf carts.”

Tickets to the event were $10 which included a dinner featuring Mexican dishes and there were

1:39 p.m. Petty theft reported at a store on Plaza Goldorado Circle in Cameron Park

2:28 p.m. Grand theft reported at a mobile home park on China Garden Road in Placerville.

7:23 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 42-year-old man suspected of assault and vandalism on French Creek Road in Shingle Springs. He was released on $42,000 bail.

7:58 p.m. California Highway Patrol

o cer booked into jail a 28-year-old man suspected of DUI on Highway 50 at Randall Tract. He was later released.

8:34 p.m. Battery reported on Da Vinci Drive in El Dorado Hills.

11:11 p.m. Battery reported on Palmer Drive in Cameron Park.

Jan. 25

1:57 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 36-year-old man suspected of illegally carrying a loaded rearm on Main Street in Georgetown. He was released on $10,000 bail.

3:14 a.m. Deputies booked into jail an 18-year-old man suspected of assault with a deadly weapon and battery on Mameluke Hill Road in Georgetown. He was released on $5,000 bail.

8:27 a.m. Vandalism reported on Brisbane Circle in El Dorado Hills.

12:15 p.m. Vandalism reported on Mt. Aukum Road in Somerset.

3:28 p.m. Vandalism reported at campgrounds on Highway 50 in Twin Bridges.

3:33 p.m. Grand theft reported at an apartment complex on Market Court in Shingle Springs.

4:38 p.m. Trespassing reported at a gas station on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

7:06 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of driving without a license on Placerville Drive. He was later released.

9:01 p.m. California Highway Patrol o cer booked into jail a 44-year-old woman suspected of DUI on Schnell School Road in Placerville. She was later released.

10:35 p.m. Grand theft reported at a grocery store on Park Drive in El Dorado Hills.

Jan. 26

12:20 a.m. California Highway Patrol o cer booked into jail a 21-year-old man suspected of DUI on Highway 50 at 5 Mile Road in Camino. Her was later released.

5:15 a.m. California Highway Patrol

o cer booked into jail a 36-year-old woman suspected of being under the in uence of a controlled substance and a probation violation on Highway 50 (town not speci ed). She was listed in custody.

9:24 a.m. Grand theft reported on Pleasant Valley Road in Placerville.

■ See CRIME LOG, page A9

ra e prizes and a silent auction, with the proceeds going to support Friends of Music.

With each dance (prayer), Ignacio provided a description to the rapt audience. He mentioned the powerful drum beats, explaining, “We believe the drums move your heart.” The closing ceremony was a dance honoring the

voters for passing Prop 36 in November, which increased sentences for certain drug and theft crimes.

Alvarado-Gil said she will continue ﬁghting to align California with

the federal agenda under President Donald Trump. After Prop. 36 went into e ect on Dec. 18, 2024, PPD made one of the ﬁrst felony theft arrests in the state, said PPD Chief Joseph Wren. EDSO provided statistics to recap its work in 2024 and hired 53 new employees in 2024, according to EDSO o cials, who also noted a tri-county drug enforcement team has seized 1,085 pounds of methamphetamine and 165 pounds of fentanyl, including 643,0025 fentanyl pills, while completing 73 arrests. In addition to updates provided by local law enforcement agencies, a live auction and ra e was held to support NCPOA’s mission of supplying scholarships to criminal justice majors at California State University, Sacramento.

Input sought from El Dorado County agricultural landowners

El Dorado & Georgetown Divide

Resource Conservation District News release

The El Dorado & Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation Districts will host the annual Local Work Group meeting to allow private landowners in El Dorado County to provide speciﬁc requests on local program needs to the Natural Resources Conservation Service concerning implementation of conservation programs including the Environmental Quality Incentive Program and Conservation Stewardship Program. The meeting is scheduled 1-3 p.m. on March 17, at 100 Forni Road, Suite A, Placerville.

The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 was passed by Congress and signed by President Trump on Dec. 20, 2018. It provides signiﬁcant ﬁnancial resources and technical

support for natural resource conservation e orts on private lands in El Dorado County as well as the rest of the nation. Though the act has expired, it is still active through continuing resolution through Sept. 30, 2025.

“The purpose of the Local Work Group is to facilitate locally led conservation by gathering input from local stakeholders within the county,” said Mark Egbert, district manager of the El Dorado & Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation Districts. “Landowners, program participants, and agriculture industry representatives are encouraged to attend the meeting in order to provide direction for this cost share program.”

For additional information contact the district o ce at (530) 295-0120, ext. 3.

Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and may also lead to serious balance problems. This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood ow to the nerves in the hands and feet. If not properly treated this lack

In order to effectively treat your neuropathy 3 factors must be determined. Our advanced treatment method has 3 main goals

four cardinal directions, north, south, east and west, giving thanks to Mother Earth.

“Our ancestors told us that our grandfather gave us Mother Earth” Ignacio shared. “From there we all eat. It does not matter the color of the person. Our ancestors would say ‘He who drinks water is our brother and our sister.’ Muchas gracias.”

balance and can walk without pain. As Dr. Mooney explained the treatment is not painful, nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.” – Neuropathy Pain Patient

Danza Azteca Continued from A1

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene Benjamin Ignacio, 45, of Lincoln, center, explains the significance of each dance or prayer with the help of translator, Mia Guzman, of Lincoln, right, to residents of Lake Oak Mobile Home Park.

Photo courtesy of Supervisor George Turnboo’s o ce

El Dorado County District Attorney Vern Pierson speaks at last week’s Northern California Peace Officers Association luncheon.

County officials encourage continued frugal spending

Jo Carrerow Mountain Democrat correspondent

An El Dorado County budget agenda item was largely met with silence from the public when heard Feb. 25 by the Board of Supervisors — a stark contrast from the budget hearing two weeks ago when there were impassioned requests for funding from outside agencies.

“Things are getting tighter. Departments are seeing inflation,

so they’re having fewer savings.”

— Assistant Chief Administrative Officer Sue Hennike

At that board meeting, a shortfall of about $2 million for the projected fiscal year 2025-26 had resulted in funds to outside agencies, including organizations which promote arts and culture, tourism, film production and economic growth, being removed from the budget.

This week, close to $2 million in projected excess funds were identified in the fiscal year 2024-25 budget, but the general consensus was to “tighten the belt” according to District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp, who said, “Staying ultra-conservative is probably the right thing to do.”

Year Budget Report states, “Approximately $3.8 million will need to be re-budgeted in FY 202526 for projects and purchases that will not be completed in FY 202425 and carried over into FY 202526. Excluding contingency and the $3.8 million that needs to be re-budgeted, this leaves an estimated $7.6 million of fund balance available to fund operations in the FY 2025-26 Recommended Budget, representing 3.3% of departments’ net county cost. This is an increase from the $6 million projected to be available to fund operations in the FY 2023-24 midyear report.“

However, Hennike pointed out the $7.6 million available for fiscal year 2025-26 is quite a bit less than the previous year, when there was about to $12 million left to re-budget.

“So you can see we’re getting pretty thin,” she added. “Things are getting tighter. Departments are seeing inflation, so they’re having fewer savings.”

Hennike cited reasons to be frugal in the coming year.

The board unanimously voted 4-0, with District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin absent, to receive and file the fiscal year 2024-25 mid-year budget, another step in the process for approval of the 2025-26 budget expected in April.

Assistant Chief Administrative Officer Sue Hennike indicated there is about $19.34 million in the projected fiscal year 2024-25 general fund balance. Of this contingency funds make up $7.85 million; department savings, $5.67 million; carryover to fiscal year 2025-26, $3.85 million; and excess general revenues are projected to come in at $1.98 million.

The Fiscal Year 2024-25 Mid-

understanding of mathematical concepts that he now applies in his career. His passion for problemsolving was further fueled by competing on El Dorado’s Math Steeplechase team against local high schools.

Volek’s rigorous high school coursework, especially in AP classes, helped him develop strong organizational skills, time management and a passion for continuous learning — qualities that led to his acceptance into Cal Poly’s Honors Calculus Program and continue to shape his success in aerospace engineering.

“The most pivotal moment that propelled me toward aerospace engineering was witnessing Elon Musk’s SpaceX first Falcon 9 launch and landing on the West Coast at Vandenberg Space Force Base,” he shared. “I drove an hour south of San Luis Obispo during my freshman year of college to see it, and the experience was awe-inspiring — both technologically and visually. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to devote my time and energy to advancing space-based engineering projects.”

After graduating cum laude in 2022, Volek secured a role with Boeing, supporting the Space Launch System (SLS), which powers NASA’s Artemis missions.

Volek’s parents, Dina and Joe Volek, expressed their pride, saying, “We are proud of both our children who graduated from El Dorado High School. We are extremely grateful for all their teachers from kindergarten through

“We are still seeing and still expecting to see slowing in the growth of our property tax and our sales tax and our TOT (Transit Occupancy Tax),” she told the supervisors.

Fires in the region and in Southern California can only make matters worse, she continued. “We feel like the effects of what we’re seeing on property tax and some of these other revenues have a lot to do with the real estate market. Obviously one of those factors is the unavailability and unaffordability of home owners

high school. Not only are they successful in their professional lives but they are kind, compassionate, and loving humans.”

Working on NASA’s Artemis Project

As part of Boeing’s Hardware Software Integration team, Chris focuses on flight controls for the SLS core stage. He describes seeing Artemis I launch from Kennedy Space Center as a career highlight: “It was a surreal moment — watching years of engineering and dedication come to life.”

Another defining experience was touring Boeing’s Michoud Assembly Facility, where the rocket’s core stage is built. “Standing inside the engine section, I was in awe of the scale and complexity of the project,” Chris shared.

Looking ahead

Volek’s next goal is to be part of the Artemis II launch team, which will send astronauts to the Moon in April 2026. Looking even further ahead, he sees AI-driven advancements making space travel more efficient and affordable. To students aspiring to STEM careers, Volek advised, “Embrace failure; it’s an opportunity to grow. Explore different fields, stay curious and find what excites you.” He encourages involvement in STEM clubs, extracurriculars and self-directed learning. “Your passion might not be obvious at first but if you keep searching, you’ll find what drives you.”

Volek Continued from A1

Courtesy photo

Chris Volek is contributing to NASA’s Space Launch System Rocket.

Budget

insurance.”

Continued from A4

Others present agreed.

“The fact of the matter is that the growth is slowing and the costs are continuing to increase,” Chief Administrative Officer Tiffany Schmid said.

District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero issued a warning.

“I do agree that the housing market hasn’t even begun to see problems that I think we’re going to see in the near future,” he said. “The state’s flush now, but that could certainly change in May due to the fires in L.A. and the relationship we have with our federal government.”

Freeze

The county departments had made cutbacks, and supervisors praised department heads and staff for their efforts.

To keep things in perspective, District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine reminded the Board that the $19.34 million general fund balance constitutes only 2% of the budget.

Hennike clarified that a four-fifths vote is needed to use contingency funds and the general reserve requires a declared emergency.

Agencies that had their annual funds pulled two weeks ago were El Dorado

Continued from A1

implementing a sweeping White House plan to pause funding on all federal grants and loans. This order was to take effect on Jan. 28 at 5 p.m.

The memo states “Federal agencies must temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all federal financial assistance.”

The freeze would give agencies time to fulfill a directive in that memo for each agency to “complete a comprehensive analysis of all of their federal financial assistance programs to identify programs, projects, and activities that may be implicated by any of the president’s executive orders.”

However, on Jan. 29 Judge Loren AliKhan from the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued a preliminary injunction that blocked the Trump administration “from implementing, giving effect to, or reinstating under a different name” the blanket, nationwide freeze on disbursement of federal funds outlined in the memo.

Also on Jan. 29, Matthew J. Vaeth, the acting director for the OMB, issued memorandum M-25-14 with the subject line, “Rescission of M-25-

County Visitor’s Authority, El Dorado County Film Commission, El Dorado Hills Chamber Welcome Center, Tahoe South Shore Chamber of Commerce, Tahoe Prosperity Center, Highway 50 Association’s Wagon Train, Economic Alliance Membership, Growth Factory, Greater Sacramento Economic Council, Arts & Culture and Save the Graves.

Leo Bennett-Cauchon, in a Feb. 24 email to the Board, asked if funding could come from elsewhere, such as the carryover funds left over from the previous year.

“Perhaps these concerns

13.” The entirety of the memo reads, “OMB Memorandum M-25-13 is rescinded. If you have questions about implementing the president’s executive orders, please contact your agency general counsel.”

The issuance, injunction, rescission and ongoing action of this directive has left agencies and funders unclear as to how to proceed. At this time El Dorado County Fire Safe Council officials have no clear answer as to when funds, if any, for the ongoing grants will be honored.

FSC Grants Manager Tamara Johnston told the Mountain Democrat things are constantly changing.

“As you can imagine, it is a fluid situation for us so what I tell you today may not be true tomorrow,” Johnston said.

The FSC currently has five outstanding federal grants paid on a reimbursement basis, according to Johnston. This means the FSC contractors do the prescribed work for any given grant and then reimbursement is requested from the funder.

“We can’t do work if we don’t have

can be addressed by clarifying the desire of the BOS to consider general fund revenue sources other than Transient Occupancy Taxes for continuing decades of BOS’ fiscal support for important community partnerships such as with the Wagon Train and with the EDC Film Commission,” he wrote.

During the open forum, Bennett-Cauchon called in to ask the board if they would invite the Highway 50 Association to attend one of the March meetings. The association’s annual Wagon Train had been slated to receive $15,000 this year, but

assurances that we will be reimbursed for it,” she said.

The five federal grants that the FSC have put on temporary hold amount to just shy of $2.5 million in fire safe programs.

A Bureau of Land Management grant in the amount of $990,000 for fuels reduction work in the Kelsey/ Garden Valley area is ongoing and much of the work has been completed and reimbursed. However, roughly $122,000 is left.

A Stevens Authority grant in the amount of $791,000, funded by the U.S. Forest Service for fuel reduction work in Sierra Springs, Grizzly Flat, Volcanoville and Mosquito, has $779,465 unfunded at this time. This grant includes an expiration date of Sept. 15, 2025.

Another Stevens Authority grant, this one for chipping, in the amount of $300,000 from the U.S. Forest Service has barely been dipped into with $25,000 received so far. This grant will expire on June 18, 2025.

A California Fire Safe Council grant in the amount of $100,000 supports community outreach and education activities implemented by EDCFSC

it fell victim to the budget cuts. The event is currently in its 76th year, of which the county has supported it for the past 25, he said.

“Historically, most wagon trains benefited from a guide when faced with a new challenge,” Bennett-Cauchon said. “I would hope that one of our supervisors stand up as such a guide to find a path to continue our local history of funding the Highway 50 Wagon Train.”

The next board of supervisors meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. on March 4 at the government center in Placerville.

associate fire safe councils. This grant is funded by the U.S. Forest Service and remains untouched. The FSC has requested advance payment and has been told that the funding is currently on hold. This grant expires Aug. 31, 2026.

An El Dorado County Air Quality Management District grant funded by the Environmental Protection Agency in the amount of $300,000 is for another chipping program. The FSC has $144,000 left to be spent on this grant and has been advised to continue to bill for work completed on this grant unless told otherwise.

“Fortunately, most of our current, large-scale fuel reduction projects are funded by the state of California through Cal Fire, and there are no issues with this funding,” said Johnston.

As of press time four out of five of the major federally funded fuels reduction programs shepherded by the EDCFSC are on an indefinite hold. Further efforts to gain clarity on the funding of these much-needed programs are ongoing. For more information about the council visit edcfiresafe.org.

Discover why El Dorado is one of California’s oldest wine regions and best-kept secrets. Every winery and every sip tells a unique story.

During the two-day wine festival, winemakers and winery owners bring out limited releases, unique and lesser-known grape varieties, food pairings, and daily surprises. With your 1 or 2-Day Passport ticket, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to limited bottlings, reserve wines, and creative food pairings, and discover the unique character of the region.

California Commentary

Is it the end of the line for California’s high speed rail project?

Everything we predicted about California’s High-Speed Rail project has come to rotten fruition.

Letters to the Editor

Frequent readers of this column know that, for over 20 years, the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association has been a top critic of HSR. While examples of government waste by California politicians and bureaucrats are legion, nothing beats HSR for wasting billions for a project that wasn’t even half-baked at inception.

Just a few weeks ago, I wrote about the study we commissioned even before the original bond vote in 2008. In conjunction with transportation experts at the Reason Foundation, the study conﬁrmed our worst fears: “The CHSRA [California High-Speed Rail Authority] plans as currently proposed are likely to have very little relationship to what would eventually be built due to questionable ridership projections and cost assumptions, overly optimistic projections of ridership diversion from other modes of transport, insu cient attention to potential speed restrictions and safety issues and discounting of potential community or political opposition.

Further, the system’s environmental beneﬁts have been grossly exaggerated, especially with respect to reduction of greenhouse gas emissions that have been associated with climate change.”

California taxpayers will be watching to see if HSR’s special interest supporters try to repurpose other state funds to keep the highspeed rail project on life support.

While much of the criticism of HSR has come from inside California, the project’s horrible reputation is gaining national attention. During the first half of President Donald Trump’s first term, when Republicans controlled the House of Representatives, federal funding of the project was suspended. But with President Joe Biden’s election in 2020, the money spigot opened like a gusher. It is now more than likely that federal funding for California’s rail project will be severely restricted if not shut o entirely. My previous column noted that HSR was garnering the attention of the DOGE project. Recent reporting in the last couple of weeks has more than confirmed that DOGE, the Department of Government E ciency, has indeed put the high-speed rail project very high on its list of programs to eliminate to save taxpayer dollars.

To make matters worse, a report issued just last week by the O ce of Inspector General for

The Not So Weekly Daley

This isn’t Russia

EDITOR:

Ithink we have all become accustomed to our president lying through his teeth about things that are painfully obvious to anyone who has access to a television, such as the botched COVID response or the attempted coup on Jan. 6, 2021, but I wonder if anyone is seriously buying his latest dream sequence. That is, that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is an unelected dictator and that he started the war with Russia. I know President Trump has great admiration for Vladimir Putin and fervently wishes he had the ultimate powers Putin enjoys but, Mr. President, you are the leader of the world’s preeminent democracy. You were not elected to destroy it. Please stop trying to cash in on your position and get about the business of looking out for your country’s interests.

ROB PURDIE Cameron Park

Porous support for law and order

EDITOR:

In Mary Elliott-Klemm’s letter on law and order she just railed against Jan. 6. I’m sure it was just an oversight on her part that she

forgot the left-wing mobs that destroyed the heart of many cities, leaving death and destruction in their wake and even burning down police stations. And when caught, our former VP Kamala Harris helped to bail them out. I’m sure it was an accident that you forgot about all that.

GEORGE ALGER

Misplaced priorities

EDITOR:

Iwas disappointed to see that, for two issues, the front-page prominence to what is essentially a playground spat between two grown men at an El Dorado Hills Community Services District meeting. While civility in public discourse is important, does this really warrant top billing in our local paper — twice?

Our community faces real challenges, from infrastructure needs to wildﬁre preparedness, housing concerns and local business development. Yet, instead of prioritizing these substantive issues, readers are subjected to a dramatic retelling of two o cials’ tempers ﬂaring. It’s frustrating to see valuable editorial space wasted on a spectacle.

Chainsaws in the hands of amateurs is bad policy

Asource I trust sent me several copies of purloined documents scrounged from federal waste baskets and garbage cans all over the country. She can’t verify all of them, but common themes run throughout this tranche of (possibly classiﬁed) information. They are purportedly a sampling of the responses of 2.3 million U.S. government employees to an email from Elon Musk requesting a list of their work accomplishments for last week. A non-response is to be considered a “voluntary resignation” per the email.

CHRIS DALEY

John F. In D.C. wrote: “I saved the nuclear codes from being tossed out by

a careless custodian last week.”

Amanda B. in Atlanta said: “Dottie and me found several rats chewing up some papers with “terrorists’ plans to bomb airplanes.” We told our boss, Mr. K. Just sayin’.”

Reggie L. from Chicago noted: “Water fountains at the U.S. Courthouse really stink. Something musta died in there. People could get sick. So I ﬁxed them. U R welcome! I’m Reggie L. in Chicago.”

Liz P. in Phoenix: “Been at USPS here 26 years. Last week I intercepted 2,000 doses of fentanyl hidden in a box of candy. Love my job.”

Juan R. El Paso: “Ratted out my gardener and his wife last week.

Border agents nabbed them and three kids (supposedly born here). Been with Ag Dept. since 1986. Keep me.”

Angie C. in Boston: “I donated $35 to President Trump’s campaign. I’m new at FBI but I have glowing performance reviews. Don’t like Jack Smith or liberals.”

Bonnie M. also Boston: “I’m 6 years with IRS. Known Angie C since grade school. She’s a kiss a** and a phony. Don’t believe a word she says. Go Sox.”

Phil D. in Denver: “Last week I safely guided 200-plus planes into and out of Denver airport. That oughta be worth something. Air Tra c Controller 13 years. I’m not resigning. So bite me.”

Roger G. from Washington, D.C.:

“John F. (for Fink) called me a ‘careless custodian.’ I forgot to secure those nuclear codes on my way to the Trump-Musk rally. A simple mistake. Big deal. So sue me. Hope you get ﬁred Fink!”

Melissa H-M in Montana: “Yellowstone Park Ranger 18 years. I saved two toddlers from falling into Old Faithful geyser last week. Routine for us National Park Service workers.” Cal W. in Berkeley: “U.S. Marshall 23 years. Apprehended two fugitive human tra ckers. They said they were long-time fans of “The Apprentice” show. So???”

Placerville

Leo D. in Miami: “Disabled vet. Shot the crap out of Talib-bums over there 2009-10. Repaired a bunch of wheelchairs last week at the VA clinic here.”

JON COUPAL

Continued from A6

California High-Speed Rail concluded that even more delays are likely. The report was titled “Merced to Bakersﬁeld Segment: The Authority is Unlikely to Complete the Segment as Currently Envisioned within Its Planned Schedule.” Other critiques in the report include the fact, “The authority has not maintained the procurement timeline it established to meet the M-B schedule.”

Also last week, the IG report was cited by nationally recognized legal commentator Jonathan Turley, who reported, “It now looks like one of the most wasteful, runaway public works projects in the country could be on the chopping block: California’s High-Speed Rail project. The project to build a

Daley

Continued from A6

Linh N. from Richmond, “I bin cook at Navy base long time. Make best hush pups. Sailors love. Go English class night school and do citizenship test soon. Thanks you for job.”

Leo D. in Miami: “Disabled vet. Shot the crap out of Talib-bums over there 2009-10. Repaired a bunch of wheelchairs last week at the VA clinic here.”

Maribeth Q. from Boise: “Forest Service dispatcher nine years. Drove hot shot crew to big wildfire last week and patched up three firefighters with burns. Called in air tankers too.”

Bob T. at Atlanta: “CDC lab tech 21 years. Isolated an anomaly that might help against avian ﬂu. Looks promising. Hope to keep after it this week. I miss Dr. Fauci a lot.”

bullet train from Los Angeles to Sacramento is an outrageous example of a public work that lacked any ﬁscal responsibility or oversight from the state government. Nevertheless, Democrats continue to push for billions more from the federal government as well as California taxpayers.”

Turley notes that unspent funds would be an easy target for a federal claw-back: “There is currently $4.3 billion in unspent federal funds for California’s high-speed rail project, and Trump should seek to claw back the money in light of the gross negligence shown by the California authorities.”

The national attention focused on HSR, the DOGE e ort and congressional hostility led by California’s

My source sent updates on those workers who were to be ﬁred and those to be retained.

Fired: John F. for ﬁnking on Roger G. (our kind of guy). Reggie L. and Phil D. bad attitudes. Bonnie M. and Cal W. insu ciently loyal. Linh N. poor language skills. Bob T. it’s pretty obvious — “Fauci.” Melissa H-M. — toddlers’ parents undocumented??

Retained: All the others for helping “Make America Great Again.”

Breaking news: Earlier in the week it was reported that some of the agencies declared submitting the achievement list would or might be voluntary ... for now. Right!

Chris Daley is a biweekly columnist for the Mountain Democrat.

own Congressman Kevin Kiley, increasingly suggests that the federal funds keeping HSR alive may ﬁnally be turned o . While that day can’t come soon enough, will it be enough to kill the project?

California taxpayers will be watching to see if HSR’s special interest supporters try to repurpose other state funds to keep the high-speed rail project on life support. At a minimum, continued funding from any source should be subject to a statewide vote. But because we can all predict what the outcome of that vote would be, we are unlikely to ever get the opportunity.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

Letters Continued from A6

Let’s leave the political tantrums where they belong — out of the headlines.

MARI MORRIS Placerville

Beauty in sadness

EDITOR:

t’s not bad to be sad. I think the reason it’s so uncomfortable is because people feel like they are being set back or the enjoyment of life is being withheld. I believe there are a few drivers in life — sadness and love. When you feel sad, it is pushing you forward. It is pushing you toward searching and therefore progressing your life. The same with love. It pushes you to do things because you love yourself or others.

Either way, sadness is not a waste of time; it is not a setback. It is one of the most beautiful aspects of life. Without it, there would be no pressure to change or improve. If anything, it is one of the most beautiful things about being a human. It just shows how deeply we care and love things.

Whether we have lost someone or something tragic has happened, just be glad you care. Caring is the most beautiful gift we are given. It may come with a great deal of pain and heartbreak but without it there would be nothing special. Without it, life would have no beauty. I can’t imagine a world without it. I can’t imagine not being sad about the ones I’ve lost. I can’t imagine if I was never sad. If I was never sad, I wouldn’t ever know what happiness is. I would never appreciate the beautiful people in my life if I never knew what it would be like to lose them. If I was never hurt, I would have never known what I wanted. The more I think about life, the more perfect I realize it is.

I hope one day you see the beauty in every single moment whether it is the worst day of your life or the best. This world may be dark and miserable sometimes, but that darkness is the exact reason that it’s so beautiful.

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 rst Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org

CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS

CLUB meets the rst 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 Sheri ’s o ce, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

PLAY CRIBBAGE

Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452. We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/

DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the

month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.

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

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. 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 rst and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919

to leave a message and get started.

TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that a ect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For

RILEY SMITH El Dorado Hills

OUTSIDE WITH CHARLIE

Search for snow

The last February snow storm added a decent amount to our snowpack. The snow was mainly above the 7,000-foot mark. Below that, the snow, at least as this is being written, remains thin to not there at all. Rats.

What remains is a decent amount of territory higher up. Cross-country skiers of all types and snowshoers still have to get to the higher elevations to exercise their gear. With the milder days and cold, cold nights, there’s a melt-freeze cycle that makes snow conditions challenging at times.

The areas that are on the south side of the mountains will have less snow and more of the melt-freeze to deal with. The north facing areas have more snow as the sun doesn’t shine on them as much and the melt-freeze bit may be a bit less.

What is still, and always, an ongoing issue is the state of the snowpack and the persistent avalanche dangers. The Sierra Avalanche Center

(sierraavalanchecenter. org) o ers daily updates on the state of the snow throughout the area that it covers. All of us who venture into the snowy forest away from resorts on a regular basis know that we’re on our own out there, gleefully enjoying that wonderful experience. Getting out there and back safely requires preparation and a boatload of common sense. Checking the avalanche reports from SAC is the ﬁrst step. The people who are the forecasters are extraordinarily skilled and experienced professionals. Pay attention to their forecasts and reports on that snowpack. They are our link to safe travels out there.

Taking a class on avalanches, whether in person or online, is

always a good idea, not only for beginners but as a refresher for all of us. When in doubt about the conditions, or your skill level, perhaps both, stay home or modify your trek. Your life may depend on it.

Heading uphill from Placerville you will have to be at least at Echo Summit if you want to stay out of the Tahoe Basin. That means skiing or snowshoeing around the Echo Lake area, or on the USFS roads around there. It will be icy in the mornings, less so as the day moves on.

The SnoPark on Johnson Pass Road up there requires a permit, which you have to have before you get there. All of the SnoParks require that permit. Get one online before you go. Into the Tahoe Basin there may be more places to slide around on. Until there’s a good snowstorm, exploring the shore of Lake Tahoe could be on snowshoes, cross-country skis or your waterproof hiking boots.

Pope Beach, Tallac Historic Estates, Baldwin Beach and Rainbow Trail are wonderful places to

Alpine racers move on to the championships

Special to the Mountain Democrat

The South 1 division of the CNISSF concluded its Alpine race season on Feb. 26 at Sierra-At-Tahoe with more than 200 racers from Amador & Argonaut, El Dorado, Oak Ridge, Ponderosa and Union Mine high schools competing in ski and snowboard races.

The next opportunity to race for those who have qualiﬁed will be March 3-5 at Sierra-at-Tahoe for the CNISSF Championships.

At Wednesday’s races El Dorado topped the podium in the women’s varsity ski competition.

1. EDHS with 383 points

2. ORHS with 381 points

3. PHS with 275 points

4. A/A with 100 points

5. UMHS with 80 points

Top three ﬁnishers were Marley Garner from A/A with a combined time of 1:04.32; Trojan Greta Aronowitz with a combined time of 1:05.06; and Cougar Andie Chandler with a combined time of 1:05.06.

Oak Ridge proved victorious in the men’s varsity ski race.

1. ORHS with 386

2. EDHS with 371

3. PHS with 362

4. UMHS with 324

5. A/A with 82

Top three ﬁnishers were Cougar Dylan McLeod with a combined time of 1:06.5; Bruin Caden Scroggins with a combined time of 1:06.57; and Trojan Beau Templet with a combined time of 1:07.62.

In the women’s varsity snowboard competition Pondo took the top spot.

1. PHS with 393 points

2. EDHS with 365 and ORHS with 365 (tie)

3. UMHS with 347 points

4. A/A with 0

The top three ﬁnishers were all Bruins — Andrey Kersey with a combined time of 1:24.36; Sophia Coldsnow with a combined time of 1:25.78; and Shayla Dalton with a combined time of 1:27.22.

The men’s varsity snowboard race ended with EDHS earning a perfect team score.

1. EDHS with 394 points

2. ORHS with 360 points

3. UMHS with 342 points

4. PHS with 338 points

5. A/A with 2236 points

Cougars dominated the race and nabbed the ﬁrst four top individual combined times: Matix Spitzer with a combined time of 1:10.94; Mason Beverly with a combined time of 1:12.7; Blake Stowe with a combined time of 1:15.95; and Eli Boatman with a combined time of 1:17.39.

spend a few hours. The ﬂoor of Hope Valley, Forestdale Creek Road, Red Lake Road, Woods Lake and Silver Lake are possibilities. There are some very good books out there about XC ski and snowshoe trails. They are great resources for planning where you would like to go.

“Ski Tours in the Sierra Nevada,” volumes 1 and 2, Bittersweet Publishing, written by Marcus Libkind, are extremely valuable. Marcus is a long time XC guy and every tour in these books are ones he has skied. He’s a good friend as well.

“Snowshoe Trails Lake Tahoe” by Mike White, Wilderness Press, along with his “50 of the Best Snowshoe Trails around Lake Tahoe,” are equally valuable resources.

These books have maps, distances, safety sections and gear suggestions. Both are for all levels of winter backcountry folks.

Remember to take actual maps of the area you’re headed to, along with a compass. Our versions of these books are well used, a bit dog eared and have

taken us on quite a few adventures over the years.

For the cycling crowd, mountain or road bike, the area around Jenkinson Lake is, as of now, free of snow. Across from the lake on the south side of Iron Mountain Road/ Mormon Emigrant Trail, the Fleming Meadows trails are rideable and mostly

mud free. Riding around Apple Hill is a joy this time of year. Hardly any tra c, quiet and beautiful. The roads have zero shoulders. Keep that in mind as you ride. So many choices. Gear up, snack up, water up, chocolate covered peanut M&Ms in hand, you’re in for winterish fun. Leave no trace. Get outside!

Courtesy photo

The El Dorado High School men’s varsity snowboard team celebrates its perfect score earned on the slopes Feb. 26. Left to right are Blake Stowe, Mason Beverly, Matix Spitzer and Eli Boatman.

Photo by J. Ferris

When out exploring the wilderness a good guide book is necessary.

Photo courtesy of the Sierra Avalanche Center

There’s snow out there for cross-country skiers and snowshoers, but you might have to drive a bit to find it.

Berco/Berry return as speedway title sponsors

Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

Placerville Speedway is excited to welcome back Berco Redwood/ Berry Lumber as title sponsor of the quarter mile for the second consecutive year.

The El Dorado County Fairgrounds venue is entering its 60th season of competition and year No. 10 under the leadership of Promoters Scott Russell and Kami Arnold.

Opening in 1965, the high-banked, red-clay bullring has been a favorite among fans throughout Northern California and is just a short drive up the hill from the capital city of Sacramento.

Berco Redwood/ Berry Lumber will also be presenting sponsor of the Nor*Cal Posse Shootout/ Legends Weekend on Friday and Saturday May 2 and 3. The much-anticipated event showcases Winged 360 Sprint Cars and the Non-Winged Ultimate Sprint Car Series both nights.

Appearances by the Kubota High Limit Racing 410 Sprint Cars, the USAC NOS Energy Drink National

log

Continued from A3

2:56 p.m.

Midgets, the Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour, the NARC 410 Sprint Cars and more dot the schedule for what is sure to be a memorable year at the quarter mile.

“We’re really looking forward to the season ahead and thrilled to have Berco Redwood/Berry Lumber return as title sponsor at Placerville Speedway,” said promoter Scott Russell. “Tim Berry and his company have been great supporters of motorsports, along with offering high quality products and services. We hope all the fans and teams will support Berco Redwood/Berry Lumber whenever possible.”

The season gets under way with a Test and Tune on March 8 before the opening championship point race commences on March 15 with the 22nd annual Tribute to Al Hinds.

The Placerville Speedway is located on the beautiful El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. For more information visit placervillespeedway. com. Lock up Placerville Speedway season tickets to catch all the action by visiting bit.ly/42zKmlT.

8:50 p.m. Battery reported on Murcia Way in El Dorado Hills.

Drive in Shingle Springs.

3:24 p.m. Deputies

5:18 p.m. Deputies

into

a 41-year-old man suspected of multiple drug-related offenses and driving on a suspended license on Coach Lane in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody in lieu of $110,000 bail.

6:47 p.m. Battery reported at school on Merrychase Drive in Cameron Park.

7:04 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 70-year-old man suspected of disorderly conduct and a probation violation on Fair Lane in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $10,000 bail

listed in custody in lieu of $75,000 bail.

Jan. 27

1:17 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 35-year-old man suspected of disorderly conduct on Mother Lode Drive (town not specified). He was later released.

3:10 a.m. California Highway

10:54 a.m. Prowler reported at an apartment complex on La Crescenta Drive in Placerville.

10:56 a.m.

COMICS

9:09 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of assault with a deadly weapon on Peycos Drive in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $150,000 bail.

10:49 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 33-year-old woman suspected of check fraud and possession of illegal drug paraphernalia on Pine Cone Drive on Cameron Park. She was listed in custody in lieu of $60,000 bail.

Jan. 28

9:05 a.m. Burglary reported at a center on Palmer Drive in Cameron Park.

10:41 a.m. Trespassing reported at church on Rodeo Road in Cameron Park.

10:41 a.m. Grand theft reported at a store on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines.

City of Plymouth California

PUBLIC WORKS SUPERINTENDENT

(Salary Range DOE $6,512.85-$7,916.41) First Review 03/10/2025 (Open Until Filled)

The City of Plymouth is seeking a PUBLIC WORKS

SUPERINTENDENT, who under general supervision from the City Manager, plans, manages, supervises, evaluates and participates in the work of crews responsible for a wide variety of skilled, semi-skilled and routine duties assigned to classes within the public work series, including constructing, repairing and maintaining City streets, parks, landscaping, pool and water, sewer and building facilities; ensures safe work practices, work quality and accuracy; maintains appropriate work records which may include time cards and work orders; serves as a technical resource for assigned work crews; performs other related duties as required.

1 Full-Time Position Available APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open Until Filled THE POSITION: The Public Works Superintendent is a management class within the Public Works series. Positions in this classi cation are responsible for managing, assigning and overseeing the work crews and performing maintenance activities. Incumbents are expected to perform the full scope of assigned duties. This classi cation is distinguished from the next lower classi cation of Public Works Supervisor by the performance of crew-leader level responsibilities on an on-going basis. Quali cations/Requirements: Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for a Public Works Superintendent. A typical way of obtaining the required quali cations is to possess the equivalent of three years of broad and extensive experience in public works or related service delivery operations, including at least one year in a responsible management capacity, and a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction, public administration, facility management or a related eld is preferred.

Selection Procedure

Candidates must submit application materials that include a completed and signed employment application and copies of any required certi cates or license listed under the requirements.

A complete job description and Application materials are available online at www.cityofplymouth.org. Completed Application materials can be emailed, mailed or handdelivered to Plymouth City Hall, City Manager’s Of ce, 9426 Main Street; P. O. Box 429, Plymouth, CA 95669; emailed to: vmchenry@cityofplymouth.org. EOE

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Shadows aren’t objects themselves; they’re evidence of what exists. You can’t change a shadow by shifting it, only by moving the light or the matter. Today, you’ll bring clarity by focusing on what is, not the illusion it creates.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Consistency doesn’t have to mean perfection or intensity. Adjust to solve the problem at hand. Flip the rigid “grind-it-out” mindset and think in more fluid and forgiving terms. Emphasize adaptability.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The logical options presented to you each have merit, to the extent that none is better than the last, only different. Let this free you. It doesn’t matter what you choose today; it only matters that you do. Action creates momentum.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’ll have the challenge that excites your mind and engages your heart, pulling out your best ideas and sharpest instincts. The satisfaction will come not just from succeeding but from knowing you’re working in harmony with your unique strengths.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The same words delivered with warmth and sincerity can build bridges, but spoken with coldness or impatience, they can burn them. Your tone, pacing and presence have the power to make a simple message feel like an invitation or a dismissal.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). What you want to create or accomplish may feel out of reach right now, especially with your current financial constraints. But fresh creative influences will shift your perspective, revealing a new approach -- one that makes your vision more achievable than it seemed before.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You’re not someone who coasts on easy contentment, and that’s OK. Happiness isn’t always the goal. You feel things deeply. You care, you reach, you create. It doesn’t exactly feel buoyant, but it’s a valid way of being.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). What matters is the task at hand. Finish what you need to finish. It doesn’t have to happen perfectly or beautifully, but it has to happen. Breathe and take the next small step. You don’t have to solve everything, just this one thing.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). One moment isn’t the whole story. You might be stressed for a

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Sometimes it seems like only you know how to best serve. Those close may not be aware of the nuances you deliver for maximum comfort and support. The pride you take in caregiving is one of the many wonderful things about you. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Sometimes you have the

Courtesy photo

The Placerville Speedway season gets under way with a Test and Tune on March 8.

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Crime

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.

PROSPECTING

IN THE KNOW

Feb. 28

The Stage at Burke Junction presents “Lobby Hero” Feb 28 through March 30. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.

Brigham Young University presents BYU Ballroom Dance: Rhythm at 7 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

The Green Room Social Club will host Island of Black and White from 7-10 p.m. For more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

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

Alash Ensemble will perform at 7 p.m. at The So a in Sacramento. For more details call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

March 1

Snowline Health presents its Jazz & Juleps Brunch, a lively celebration featuring live jazz, delicious cuisine, experience-based auction items and signature mint juleps, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Serrano Country Club in El Dorado Hills. For tickets visit JAZZJuleps.givesmart.com.

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

The El Dorado High School Foundation will host the Blue and White Gala, an evening of dinner, drinks and music with live and silent auctions. The event starts at 5 p.m. at the Cold Springs Country Club. For more information visit bit.ly/ EDHS2025gala.

The Gun Owners of California will host the Gold Country Kids dinner and ra e at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds at 5 p.m. For more information visit gunownersca.com/product/ gold-country-kids-dinnerauction-ra e-2025.

Folsom Lake Symphony presents “Star-Crossed Lovers” at 7:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For more information visit harriscenter. net or call (916) 608-6888.

The Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra presents European Masterworks at 3 p.m. at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in downtown Sacramento. For tickets and more information visit sacramentochoral.org.

Vanessa Collier will perform at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.

The Shingle Springs Community Center will host a Community Breakfast from 8-11 a.m. Come as you are, pay by donation. For more information visit hinglespringscommunitycenter.org.

The El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Cars and Co ee from 7-9 a.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

The Stage at Burke Junction presents “Lobby Hero” by through March 30. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.

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

Loyalties are tested in ‘Lobby Hero’

Andrew Vonderschmitt and Shelly Thorene Sta writers

The Stage at Burke Junction presents the comedic drama, “Lobby Hero,” by Kenneth Lonergan opening Saturday March 1.

A murder investigation in a Manhattan apartment building lobby reveals conflicting loyalties and the high cost of justice. As the inquiry unfolds, a young security guard finds himself caught in the crossfire. His supervisor is compelled to testify against his own brother, and a rookie police o cer must confront her experienced partner. Truth becomes elusive, and good intentions lead to unintended consequences in this gripping exploration of morality and the criminal justice system.

Lonergan wrote and directed the ﬁlm, “Manchester by the Sea,” 2016, which won him the Academy Award for Best Screenplay. He has been nominated for multiple accolades including the Academy, British Academy Film, Golden Globe and Tony awards. Lonergan is best known for his e ortless storytelling revealing complex relationships and characters while addressing social issues and exploring the human psyche.

The production will be directed by Sacramento native, Imani Mitchell. Mitchell is a prolific writer, director, filmmaker and actor. She founded the film production

company, IAM Studios, focusing on amplifying underrepresented voices. Moreover, Mitchell founded the nonproﬁt, Black Women United celebrating and uplifting black women.

This is Mitchell’s ﬁrst time at bat at The Stage.

“[Artistic Director] Anthony D’Juan hired me,” she said.

“I found myself captivated by the dialogue, it is realistic and conversational and very easy for actors to engage with.”

Mitchell told the Mountain Democrat that Lonergan’s play will deﬁnitely have audiences

talking after the show.

“He has skillfully constructed a morality play that never feels like a morality play: it’s about power, heroism, selﬂessness and selﬁshness. It is such a wild ride.”

She said that the process working with her team has been fantastic.

“I’m incredibly lucky to have such an amazing cast, all of them are literally perfect for their parts.”

She added that the team had worked extremely hard on their performances and as an ensemble. She has had a

good time working at the little theater inside Burke Junction.

“The production team at the Stage is so supportive and helpful, especially our stage manager Julie McKinney,” Mitchell said. “She is what makes everything happen.”

Although over 25 years old, Mitchell said that the play’s themes are absolutely relevant to today.

“Maybe too relevant, unfortunately,” she mused. “I’m certain there are elements and details that will both comfort

Serving up soup and smiles at Empty Bowls Dinner

Karen Brown Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Di erence

For the 25th year, Empty Bowls Dinner in Placerville will o er the community a chance to gather, enjoy a delicious meal and raise funds to ﬁght hunger in El Dorado County and beyond. The event will take place on Saturday, March 8 from 4-7 p.m at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in the Forni Building. Families and guests will enjoy delicious soup and fresh bread served in a keepsake handmade ceramic bowl, donated by artists and schools from throughout the region. Coloma Celtic will entertain attendees with their upbeat great Americana Celtic folk sounds, and vendor booths will o er educational materials about the issue of hunger and handmade and curated wares for purchase. Wine, beer, and a large selection of desserts will also be available for purchase.

The funds raised from this event will support organizations ﬁghting food insecurity. The organizations chosen to be the beneﬁciaries this year are: La proMesa Familiar in El Dorado County, Upper Room Dining Hall in Placerville, Hands4Hope Emergency Food Pantry in Placerville and Earth’s Angels in Ghana.

The event is organized by Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Di erence’s after-school Empty Bowls Committee, consisting of 16 middle and high school youth, 7 of whom are leading the e ort. The committee also has the support of 12 adult mentors. This event was led for 23 years by the El Dorado

Peace and Justice Community, with assistance for several years by Hands4Hope participants. In 2024, the event leadership transitioned to this youth-led Hands4Hope Committee. Empty Bowls is a nationwide grassroots e ort to ﬁght

hunger. Tickets at the door are $25 for adults with a $5 discount for advance online purchase, youth are $15 and children age 4 and under are free. . Tickets, sponsorships, and more information can be

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

Left to right, William (Tariq Eliddig), Security Specialist Jeff (Phoenix Brewer), Officer Dawn Wilson (Shelby Saumier) and Officer Bill (Braeden Harris) contend with the shifting loyalties of a murder investigation.

■ See LOBBY HREO, page B2

Courtesy photosi

Serving up handmade bowls with homemade soups. Local artists and students donate hundreds of bowls to the annual fundraiser.

Ronnie Baker Brooks will put the soul in the blues

he Sacramento

TBlues Society presents Ronnie Baker Brooks live at Harlow’s in Sacramento on Tuesday, March 4.

Award-winning blues rock guitarist, songwriter and vocalist Ronnie Baker Brooks will celebrate the release of his Alligator Records debut album, “Blues In My DNA,” with a live performance at Harlow’s in Sacramento. With “Blues In My DNA,” Baker Brooks — son of legendary multiple Grammy Award nominee, Blues Hall Of Famer, and longtime Alligator Records recording star Lonnie Brooks — delivers an up-to-the-minute masterpiece. The album, the fifth of his career, is firmly rooted in the blues with Brooks incorporating his own brand of rock, funk and soul to the mix.

“I just play what I feel,” he said. “It’s all from the heart.”

Produced by famed studio wizard Jim Gaines, who has produced Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Lonnie Brooks, Luther Allison and many others, “Blues In My DNA” is a careerdefining statement from Baker Brooks, with each of the 11 original songs its own chapter in his ever-evolving story.

For Baker Brooks the process of writing songs for “Blues In My DNA” was as fun and exciting as playing live.

“I love writing as much as performing. I love watching an idea become a song, then a song become something people can relate to, and then sing along with,” he said. “And I always keep it authentic to myself. Everyone can feel it and be familiar with it. I’m here to build bridges,

Lobby Hero Continued from B1

and disturb audiences.”

Jeff said that Lonergan’s script feels like natural conversation.

“The writing’s brilliant,” said Phoenix Brewer, who plays the protagonist, a young anti-lothario, security guard named Jeff.

“The play’s dialogue is super-

not walls.”

Ronnie Baker Brooks was born in 1967 in Chicago. He received his first guitar from his famous father at age nine and learned the instrument as he got older, sharing his time between playing basketball and focusing on his music. After high school, he joined his father’s band as a roadie. He earned his way slowly up the ladder, listening, watching and

realistic,” he said. “It sounds like real people talking about real world problems.”

Tarig Eliddig who plays Jeff’s boss, William, told the Mountain Democrat that he was really enjoying his first time at the Stage.

This play marks his third time back

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learning. At one show, Koko Taylor pulled him aside as he was loading the gear into the van and told him, “You learn from your daddy everything you can. And one day, it’ll be up to you to carry the blues forward.”

Among the many lessons Baker Brooks learned growing up was to forge his own identity, to write his own songs, to play his own brand of blues and not to imitate anyone else. Willie Dixon taught him the importance of “delivering” the song, so the people know you believe it. Albert Collins, almost a second father to Baker Brooks, said, “Take what you like from what we do and make it you.”

In 1998, when the time was right and with Lonnie’s blessing, Baker Brooks formed his own label, Watchdog Records, and released three solo albums over the next eight years: “Golddigger” in 1998, “Take Me Witcha” in 2001 and “The Torch” in 2006. On all three releases, Baker Brooks worked with and learned countless studio and production lessons from JellyBean Johnson (Prince, The Time), with positive response to Baker Brooks’ music coming from Prince himself.

In 2008, Baker Brooks produced and played

on blues legend Eddy Clearwater’s Alligator debut, “West Side Strut,” helping to bring one of his mentors to a new generation of fans. His next solo album, 2017’s, “Times Have Changed,” was produced by drummer Steve Jordan (The Rolling Stones, Robert Cray) and issued on the Provogue label. The UK’s Record Collector magazine said, “Baker Brooks plays a heady blend of blues, soul and funk…an upbeat cocktail of guts, groove, stinging guitar work and soulful vocals.”

The Blues Foundation has recognized Baker Brooks’ talent and recordings with a total of six Blues Music Award nominations.

Since he was a teen, Baker Brooks has toured the world, first with his dad and then leading his own band. He’s built his reputation as a white-hot performer one gig at a time. His eye-popping guitar work, soulful vocals, fireball energy and huge, crowd-pleasing personality keep his fans on the edge of their seats. In addition to performing at both Obama presidential inaugurations, he has played major festivals and concert halls across the U.S., Canada, the UK and Europe, as well as in Brazil and China. In 2024, Baker Brooks, along

on the boards after the pandemic shut-downs. He and two of his fellow castmates, Shelby Saumier and Braeden Harris, recently finished up a two-month run in Capitol Stage’s “Georgianna and Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley.”

“We have chemistry and even get together on days we don’t work,” he said, adding that he is enjoying the moral themes and how the play illustrates that in life everyone has, “a choice to make and then has to live with the decision.”

Harris plays Dawn’s senior partner, Bill, who shows a romantic interest in his youthful colleague. He said that the play’s themes are pertinent to modern audiences.

“The topics are still relevant today.”

Saumier, who takes on the role of Dawn, the young female police officer, said that she met Harris and Eliddig at Capitol Stage and that they “roped her into” this production.

Saumier previously performed in “Lobby Hero” at a festival and wanted

with his friend and label-mate Shemekia Copeland, opened the famous Chicago Blues Festival (the fourth time he’s appeared as a headliner), with a roofraising performance. Then, four days later, he helped close the festival out — along with Copeland, his guitarist brother Wayne Baker Brooks and harmonica giant Billy Branch — joining headliner Buddy Guy at Buddy’s request. Ronnie Baker Brooks may have been born a blues prince, but he never received any royal treatment.

“Dad set me up for today,” Baker Brooks notes. “He always told me to put the time in, study, practice get better. I started my music career as his roadie. He wouldn’t let me play onstage with him until I earned it, and until he was certain playing music was what I truly wanted to do. I grew up witnessing and learning from the legends of the blues. I’m excited to continue to create Chicago blues as part of my family legacy and our shared history. I’ll always carry on and represent the blues in everything I do. Dad started the fire, Albert Collins poured the gas on it, and Koko Taylor put the grill on.” The show startsFor more information visit harlows.com.

to see it when she learned it would be produced at Burke Junction.

“I love this space,” she added. “It’s fun to be in a new space that is challenging how you move your body.” She told the Mountain Democrat that the material in “Lobby Hero,” will “challenge the audience and challenge the performers.”

She enjoys, “calibrating levels of emotion up and down.” showing that the characters are “aware of the stakes in the situation.” She added, “To sum up the play in one word.” she said. “It’s about power.” Mitchell said that the play has a lot to offer El Dorado County audiences.

“You are bound to experience, likely, every emotion while watching this play,” she said. “And, you’ll definitely laugh a lot.”

“Lobby Hero” by Kenneth Lonergan opens at The Stage at Burke Junction on Saturday, March 1 at 7 p.m. and runs through March 30. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

Officer Dawn Wilson (Shelby Saumier) right, confronts Security Specialist Jeff (Phoenix Brewer), after new information surfaces.

Photo courtesy of Paul Natkin Ronnie Baker Brooks will celebrate his album release at Harlow’s in Sacramento.

Tasty catch nabs California Wildlife Photo of the Year title

Barbara Steinberg

California Watchable Wildlife

Cupertino photographer Jean Zuo’s majestic image of a California Black Bear and Kokanee Salmon at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center took the grand prize and became the 2024 California Wildlife Photo of the Year. The contest is sponsored by California Watchable Wildlife, Sierra Nevada Conservancy and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Zuo started to focus on photography in 2017. During the pandemic, wildlife photography elevated itself from a hobby to a peaceful sanctuary for the mind.

“In October of 2023, my family took me to Lake Tahoe. That was my first time visiting Taylor

Fall in love all over again

Ed Sengstack

Harris Center for the Arts

FOLSOM — Harris Center for The Arts presents “Pretty Woman: the Musical,” based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories March 7-9.

“Pretty Woman: the Musical,” springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award®-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell.

The production features an original score by Grammy® winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and a book by the movie’s legendary director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J. F. Lawton. “Pretty Woman: the Musical,” will lift your spirits and light up your heart.

“If you love the movie, you’ll love the musical,” BuzzFeed News.

“Pretty Woman: the Musical,” has original scenic design by David Rockwell, costume design by Gregg Barnes, lighting design by Kenneth Posner and Philip S. Rosenberg, sound design by John Shivers, hair design by Josh Marquette, makeup design by Fiona Mifsud and music supervision, arrangements, and orchestrations by Will Van Dyke.

Featured in the musical is Roy Orbison and Bill Dee’s international smash hit song “Oh, Pretty Woman,” which inspired the iconic movie. “Pretty Woman” the film (produced by Arnon Milchan with New Regency Productions) was an international smash hit when it was released in 1990.

“Pretty Woman: the Musical” is produced on tour by Crossroads Live and is booked by The Booking Group.

This production of “Pretty Woman: the Musical” was licensed by Music Theatre International, mtishows.com.

Atlantic Records’ “Pretty Woman: the Musical” original broadway cast recording is produced by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and is now available. Visit prettywomanthemusical.com for more information.

“Pretty Woman: the Musical,” will perform five times, March 7-9, with Friday-Sunday evening performances at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday matinées at 2 p.m. Individual tickets are on sale now at the Harris Center Box Office at (916) 608-6888, or online at harriscenter.net. Box Office hours are Tuesday-Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and one hour before showtime.

Creek, and capturing its remarkable wildlife. I photographed the California black bears and Kokanee salmon; it was truly a privilege and one of my most memorable experiences. Winning the Photo of the Year is an honor.”

California Watchable Wildlife and California Department of Fish & Wildlife launched the contest to acknowledge photographs that illustrate the state’s diverse wildlife and the viewing experience found throughout its natural and wild lands. For the contest, a panel of judges critiques each photograph based on creativity, technical excellence, overall impact and artistic merit. Unlike other state-sponsored photo contests, this runs throughout the year with winners announced bi-monthly and featured on social media platforms and the CAWW website. The photo of the year is

selected in December by CDFW Director Chuck Bonham.

Bonham said he considered each of 17 finalists an outstanding representation of what the state offers. He commended each of the photographers for their exceptional skill seen through a camera lens — from the technical to the artistic.

“The opportunity to choose the wildlife photo of the year is one of the perks of my job, even though it’s never easy,” said Bonham. “Jean’s photograph captured the raw beauty and life cycle connection between two species. The composition, lighting, and timing reflected not only the technical excellence we look for, but also the deep respect for the natural world. It was a truly captivating

Left, California Wildlife Photo of the Year 2024: Black bear & Kokanee salmon taken at Taylor Creek Visitor Center by Jean Zuo Photography. Above, Sierra Nevada Conservancy Winner 2024: Northern river otter at Lake Almanor, Plumas County, taken by Randy Robbins.

Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy Edward (Jack Rasmussen) meets Vivian (Eva Gary) in “Pretty Woman: the Musical” playing at the Harris Center for the Arts.

Month

Lemons. I love their astringency, the perfume that oats up from the oil in their peel when it’s grated over linguini. Lemons make everything taste better — cod, custard, cocktails.

I love their color in a blue bowl, de nitively yellow, as if nothing else, no da odil, no sundress could compete. The way they o er themselves up o the tree in my sister’s

THAT AWAY FROM ME

backyard in Berkeley. I am grateful to lemons for their simplicity and their versatility, their willingness to make themselves useful.

I will not be deprived of the pleasure of them no matter how far the armies of the night advance. In the cacophony of the moment, I wish to make it clear that I will not be bludgeoned.

The bell tolls for Damage Inc

Late-Nite Productions

Late-Nite Productions and One Vision Entertainment present Southern California’s premier tribute to Metallica featuring Damage Inc with guest Judas Thieves, a Judas Priest tribute band from South Lake Tahoe. This is happening Friday March 7 at Cypress in Midtown Reno and Saturday March 8 at Blu Nightclub inside Bally’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline.

Damage Inc was hand-selected by Metallica themselves to perform as part of Metallica’s 2023 M72 World Tour Weekend Takeover event, ...

And Tributes for All, performing every Saturday of Metallica’s North American Tour as well as their 40th Anniversary San Francisco Weekend Takeover in 2020. Also seen on AXS TV’s “The World’s Greatest Tribute Bands,” Damage Inc is the foremost Metallica tribute band in the United States. Formed in 2004 by brothers, rhythm guitarist and lead vocalist Chris Knight and bassist Kevin Knight. Over the course of their 20-plus-year career, they have performed over 500 electrifying concerts for Metallica fans! For more information visit lateniteproductions.com.

Susie Kaufman is the author of the 2019 essay collection “Twilight Time: Aging in Amazement.” Her writing centers on memory, aging and mortality and the inner life. Kaufman re ects on her childhood in New York, her spiritual life in Jewish Renewal and Buddhism and her earlier work as a hospice chaplain. Her Substack seventy something appears weekly. Kaufman’s work has been published in “Writing Fire: An Anthology Celebrating the Power of Women’s Words,” “Presence: The Journal of Spiritual Directors International” and in the magazines Lilith and America. She lives in El Dorado and in St. Louis Park, Minn.

Area playwrights learn to play it straight

City Theater News release

SGorman attached to direct.

Sher holds a bachelor’s degree in drama and English literature from Stanford University, studied acting at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and graduated from the Neighborhood Playhouse Acting School in NYC. She worked extensively in theatres in Palo Alto, New York and Key West before moving to Sacramento in 1990, where she immediately found a home at The Show Below where she began directing in 1991 and worked as an apprentice to the late Ivan Sandoval. She has directed at several area theaters.

ACRAMENTO — Sacramento City College’s City Theatre brings a play to the Art Court Theatre written by local playwrights, Richard Winters, Kerri Yund and Gary Wright. The production is directed by Adrienne Sher. The comedy-filled, “Play It Straight,” tells the tale of drama teacher, Mr. Ross who finds himself on the front line of the culture wars, as he, his students, and school administrators grapple with a new district mandate which requires the school to ‘out’ a gay student to her conservative Christian father. Can Ross walk the ethical tightrope between supporting his students, and keeping his job? Winters spent over three decades in both professional and public school theater. His work in these two arenas informed and inspired “Play It Straight.” His other plays include “Death of a High School Quarterback,” “Selfies,” “Some Gave All,” “Dancing Naked” and “Sleeping in the Middle of The Bed.” Yund first found theater as a student of Winters, and now is an elementary school teacher herself. Keeping her love of the arts alive, she has performed and done tech and dramaturgy for R25 Theatre Group and California Stage since 2022, in productions such as “Chef,” “Hand to God,” and “Bakersfield Mist.”

Wright has written plays on commission for three theater companies, and screenplays on assignment for several indie ﬁlm producers. His screenplay “Late Bloomers” (co-written with Sam Kozé) is currently in pre-production with Salt & Light Films, with Dakota

City Theatre is the performing arts program at Sacramento City College, part of the Los Rios Community College District, in Sacramento. City Theatre’s season consists of four Mainstage productions, two Storytime children’s productions, and the elementary school touring troupe known as The Pennywhistle Players. During the summer, City Theatre produces the annual Sacramento Shakespeare Festival. The company welcomes all students and members of the community to audition and participate in their award-winning productions.

The play opened Thursday, Feb. 27, and runs through Sunday, March 16. Performances are Feb. 28, March 1, 2, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14 and 15 at 7:30 pm; and March 3, 11, and 16 at 2:00 pm. Performances will be held in the Art Court Theatre in the Performing Arts Center on the Sacramento City College campus at 3835 Freeport Blvd. in Sacramento. Tickets may be purchased online or in person thirty minutes before the performance begins. For tickets and more information visit citytheatre.net.

Bad Fish will get the joint jumping

Michal J. Media Group News release

ROSEVILLE — Sublime tribute band, Badﬁsh will play the Goldﬁeld Trading Post in Roseville on Wednesday, March 5.

something of real heart and value to add not only to our show but to the American reggae scene.”

For 22 years, the Rhode Islandbased band — Joel Hanks on bass, Scott Begin on drums, Pat Downes on vocals and guitar, Danny Torgersen on horns, keyboards, and guitars — have successfully paid tribute to Sublime, the short-lived but inﬂuential group that brought ska-punk and reggaerock to the mainstream. Badﬁsh’s heartfelt celebration of Sublime’s musical spirit and legacy is so soughtafter that they’ve headlined theaters, sold out shows, and played 15-20 gigs a month.

Now, Badfish is more. After two decades of Sublime reverence, Badfish originality is stomping into high gear. Badfish recently released its second new song, the anthemic, groovefortified “F You Pay Me,” with special guest Grieves, as the follow-up to the band’s first single, “High on You.” Now the Sublime repertoire is nicely augmented by fresh original tracks that blend seamlessly together.

“Putting out original music alongside being a tribute band has always been a point of interest to us,” said Begin. “It’s been a tricky path to walk, though. Yet as the years have gone by and we’ve gotten to witness our little show turn into somewhat of a movement within the scene, we are at the point where we feel we have

You’ll hear Sublime staples like “What I Got,” “Santeria” and “Wrong Way” woven with Badfish’s own beat-heavy new single, “F You Pay Me,” which blends rock, reggae and hip-hop along with lyrics about re-prioritizing self-preservation as the follow up to the band’s first single “High With You” (featuring Little Stranger). The crowd’s enthusiastic response to these new songs makes them feel right at home alongside Sublime staples in the Badfish set.

“With the kinetic energy that the band has amassed over years of performing, the ideas just keep ﬂowing out of the blue and we are lucky enough to capture them,” said Begin. “Perspective is a great tool in music composition, and we’ve got plenty of that by now. When it feels right, it feels right … and these songs sure feel right.”

Harnessing this new creative energy, Badﬁsh is stoked to gear up for its 2025 Gimme The Gold Tour. The tour will take the boys around the country where they’ll surely keep the vibes high for some familiar faces and many new ones as well.

Catch Badfish in concert takes place Wednesday, March 5, at Goldfield Trading Post in Roseville. The all ages show starts at 8 p.m. with the doors open at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit goldfieldtradingpost. com/roseville.

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Billy Drewitz

Boca do Rio + Suika T will perform, 7 p.m. to midnight at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Beetlejuice Jr.” at 1 p.m. The show runs through March 30. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

March 2

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

The El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Town Center Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

The Green Room Social Club will host an Oscar’s Night Viewing and After Party, 3-8 p.m. in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents Serial Killers with Dr. Scott Bonn at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter. net or call (916) 608-6888.

Folkyeah! presents Ty Segall with special guest King Tuff at 8 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

California Museum in Sacramento presents a free film screening of “The Six Triple Eight” at 11 a.m. For more information visit californiamuseum.org.

March 3

FLC Jazz Band presents Women in Jazz featuring Mary Fettig at 7 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

March 4

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

Broadway Sacramento presents “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical” at 7:30 p.m. Show runs March 4-8 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in downtown Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

March 5

The El Dorado Hills Town Center will host a Mom Walk, Sip and Stroll meeting at 10 a.m. at the Amphitheater. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents Dan Reeder w/ Peggy Reeder and Renny Conti at 8 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

March 6

Join the Shingle Springs Cameron Park Chamber for its Monthly Mixer from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Shingle Springs Community Center. Hosted by the Cameron Park Rotary. For more information or to register visit sscpchamber.org.

The El Dorado Union High School District invites hosts the district-wide Career Expo, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Union Mine High School. This event is open to all students and families in the district, as well as the El Dorado County community.

Newbies and Allstars Open Mic hosted by Jon Shapi takes place 6-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

The Mills Station Arts and Culture Center in Rancho Cordova presents Check Mate, an exhibition showcasing handcrafted chess boards and sets. For more information visit rcmacc.org.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents “Jeeves and wooster in Perfect Nonsense” at 7 p.m. The show runs March 3-30 at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents Well Tempered Jazz at 8 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

March 7

The Katie Skene Band + Hattie Craven will perform, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

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

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents Lonesome Ace String Band at 7 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents Altan at 7 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents “Pretty Woman, the Musical” at 7:30 p.m. The show runs through March 9. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888. Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “Titus Andronicus” at 7:30 p.m. Show runs March 7-29. For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre.org.

Now Imagination Theater at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents “Stuart Little, The Musical” through March 2. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.

Atrium Gallery EDH in El Dorado Hills Town Center presents Hidden Kiss, a solo artist exhibit featuring Lin Fei Fei, through March 22. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

Gold Bug Park & Mine in Placerville is open Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit goldbugpark.org.

EDH Cars and Coffee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. The motto is “If it rolls, it goes.”

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

El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts a year-round Farmers Market Sundays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. behind Nibblers.

Shadow Ranch Vineyards in Fair Play, hosts Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sundays in the winter. Enjoy delicious grilled cheese sandwiches with

a side of red pepper and tomato soup. For reservations call 530) 6202785.

California Museum in Sacramento presents Our War Too: Women in Service through May 4. For more details visit californiamuseum.org.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Collidoscope – De La Torre Brothers Retrospective through May 4; Frames of Mind – The Ramer Photography Collection through May 4; Black & Gold – Traditional and Contemporary Japanese and Chinese Ceramics through Dec. 31, 2025; and Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

Dec. 31, 2030. For more information visit crockerart.org.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “English” through March 2. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.

The Sacramento Fine Arts Center in Carmichael presents Awash with Color, featuring the members of Watercolor Artists of Sacramento Horizons, through March 8. For more information visit sacfinearts.org.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Our Town” through March 16. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

moment.”

ZUO received a pair of Opticron DBA VHD+ 10x42 binoculars donated by Out of this World Optics, a two-night stay at Abbey House Inn and other prizes valued at $1,500. Leading up to the announcement, the top winning images from the 2024 contest were part of a week-long social media presentation.

The 2024 top finishers also included two winning entries selected by representatives from Sierra Nevada Conservancy (Northern River Otter, Lake Almanor, photographer Randy Robbins) and Out of This World Optics (Elegant Terns, Elkhorn Slough Ecological Reserve, photographer Mark Zimmerman).

Celebrating its 14th year, the California Wildlife Photo of the Year 2025 is officially under way. For more information on submission guidelines and to view past winners visit CAWatchableWildlife.org.

ACRAMENTO — A short film co-written and co-produced by Roberto Chacon-Gutiérrez Young (they/ them/ellos pronouns), Sacramento City College Professor of Theatre Arts and Film, was selected for the 2025 Sundance Film Festival.

Roberto Fatal (ChaconGutiérrez’s pen name) worked together with Ali Meyers-Ohki on the sci-fi drama, “En Memoria,” a story about a dystopian future where a mother struggles to finish making her daughter’s quinceañera dress. The film, funded through the city of Sacramento’s Innovation and

Growth Fund, boasts a highly inclusive cast and crew, many of whom are current or former Sacramento City College students.

Among those involved, 63% identified as nonbinary, transgender, or cisgender women; 30% as disabled; and 73% as Black, Indigenous, and/or people of color. Furthermore, 63% identified as LGBTQIA+, and the entire cast was composed of individuals who identify as BIPOC.

“Sci-fi tells us stories about what our futures can look like,” Fatal said. “For far too long many of these stories have left out queer and trans people, and people of color. It sends a terrifying

message that we don’t make it to the future. It was important for me as a Two-Spirit, queer and Latina Indigenous person to make movies that promise our communities that not only do we make it into the future, but we can survive and thrive there against all odds. The team we pulled together isn’t some forced attempt at diversity to check boxes, it’s my friends, family and community coming together organically to make a film that tells a story about the future that we want to see.”

In addition to their new short screening at the festival, n See SUNDANCE page B10

Continued from B6

Fatal’s debut feature film, “Electric Homes,” (based on their 2023 short film “Digital Curanderas” and also produced in partnership with Sacramento City College, the City of Sacramento and the Sundance Film Institute) was selected for the prestigious 2025 Sundance Screenwriters Lab.

The script was chosen out of 3,380 worldwide submissions and joins a distinct group of past Sundance Screenwriter Lab alum, including Wes Anderson, Darren Aronofsky, Taika Waititi, Sean Wang, Sydney Freeland and Joe Talbot.

The experience led Fatal to rethink how they teach their screenwriting

class at Sacramento City College.

“At City College, we look at screenwriting from a very technical and analytical perspective,” Fatal says.

“The Sundance writers lab was akin to a spiritual experience for me. It moved me to my soul and connected me deeply to why I am called to this art and craft and to the power it has in our world. I want to ensure that future screenwriting classes not only focus on rigorous technical achievement in screenwriting, but always center our students’ unique, powerful, soulful life experiences as the engines that drive their writing. I also want to ensure that our students have the opportunity to work with the amazing artists I have

worked with at Sundance as guest lecturers in our classes.”

Fatal is no stranger to the Sundance circuit. In 2021, their screenplay “Do Digital Curanderas Use Eggs in Their Limpias?” was awarded the Sundance Film Institute Indigenous Film Fellowship and selected to be archived at the UCLA Film and Television archive. The feature adaptation of that short, Electric Homies, now has a producer attached, Ian Christian Blanche of Infinite Wow productions and and studios interested in financing the film. It be shot in Sacramento and provide internships and job opportunities for Sacramento City College students and alumni.

Courtesy photo Roberto Fatal is no staranger to Sundance