he well-attended 100th annual El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce Awards and Installation Dinner honored the many accomplishments made, not only by the business community, but the chamber itself.
It was a night of glitter and glitz, camaraderie and community on Jan. 30. A night where business and community leaders caught up with old friends, cemented relationships with new and celebrated the many successes of their contemporaries.
“I am glad to be in a room filled with doers,” Adam Anderson of WealthGuard Advisors, master of ceremonies, said as he welcomed the capacity crowd to the Apex event room at Red Hawk Casino. At the beginning of the proceedings Trish Tratos of Spot-On Signs was thanked for her commitment to the Chamber Diplomats program while Christa Campbell of Rainbow Orchards was acknowledged and thanked for her years of dedication and service to agriculture and tourism in El Dorado County. Each year the chamber hands out four awards to businesses or individuals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty: Golden Slate, Achievement in Tourism, Historic Preservation and Community Service.
First up, Executive Director of Film and Media Kathleen Dodge, recognized Margaritaville Resort,
El Dorado County and Warabi to celebrate golden anniversary
Jo Carrerow Mountain Democrat correspondent
El Dorado County will be opening its doors to its sister city, Warabi, Japan, for the 50th year in April. The semi centennial week-long celebration will begin with nine visitors from Japan, including former Warabi City Councilman Ryosuke Imai, one of the founders who helped create the tradition of his city and El Dorado County exchanging visits, starting in 1975.
This is a “big event,” said Janet Sambucetti, president of the El Dorado County Chapter of
Photo by Shira Gilo / Gilo Photography
El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce CEO Laurel Brent-Bumb, center, accepts a proclamation from Assemblyman Joe Patterson, right, in recognition of the chamber’s 100th annual awards and board installation celebration. They’re joined by event emcee Adam Anderson, left.
Photo by Shira Gilo / Gilo Photography
Wendy and Dennis Thomas, left photo, received the Community Service Award for their combined years in public service. Christa Campbell of Rainbow Orchards , left, holds up her award after Adam Anderson, right, called her name, right photo. The award recognizes Campbell’s years of dedication and service to agriculture and tourism in El Dorado County.
Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
ESSENTIALS
Diana Lynn Stauffer
April 20, 1946 – Feb. 4, 2025
Loma Lee Meyer
Aug. 27, 1931 – Jan. 31, 2025
Diana Lynn Stauffer, beloved resident of El Dorado County passed away due to complications from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. She is survived by her children Hansi Klempa (Mady), Stefani Bright (Shon) and Kristina Elissa Lachman (Jake), grandchildren Evan, Mason, Meg, Gavin, Mia, and four great grandchildren. Diana was born in Mayfield, Kentucky on April 20, 1946. Diana and husband Rudy brought Crystal Springs Llamas to Camino in 1982. She also worked in special education in El Dorado County until 1997. Diana spent time as a committee member of the Peace and Justice community, Round Table on Human Rights, Concert Committee and Empty Bowls. She could be counted on to cook a delicious vat of soup for that event. She will not be forgotten by the scores of friends whose lives she has touched with her kind and giving heart. In her final hours, Diana rested peacefully, surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren, as was her wish. Donations can be made in Diana’s name to Snowline Hospice, in gratitude for their amazing care and support.
Margaret Ellen Heinz
Aug. 17, 1932 – Jan. 11, 2025
After 92 years of a rich and well-lived life, Margaret Ellen Heinz passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025. She was surrounded by her loved ones. Margaret was born to Esther Aguilar (Avalos) and Esteban Aguilar on August 17, 1932, in Madera, California. Her family eventually settled in Livingston, where Margaret attended Livingston High School (class of 1950). She worked and attended Modesto Junior College, then followed her older cousins, Robert and Jess Aguilar, to the University of California at Berkeley, where she was later joined by sisters Linda, Esther, Terry, and cousin Ed. She made lifelong friends through the Catholic Alumni Club. As the oldest child of hard-working immigrants, she set the example as a trailblazer for her siblings (Linda, Esther, Steve, Terry and Dan). Margie began her teaching career in Atwater. Margie married Leonard (“Len”) John Heinz on August 15, 1964. They settled in San Francisco, and had their first child, Lenny, November 25, 1965. Margie stepped away from teaching to devote her time to raising her children after their second child, daughter Laurie, was born. She was heavily involved in volunteer activities, including serving as President of PTA at Epiphany School, Girl Scout Troop Leader, and contributing to the annual Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Telethon through her outstanding baking skills. She returned to the classroom when her youngest daughter, Rose-Ellen, was in middle school. She remained actively engaged in parent groups and activities at School of the Epiphany, Presentation High School, and Riordan High School, where Len taught, coached, and served as Dean. Margie was tireless. She sewed clothes for fashion shows, was a girl scout cookie mom, helped organize countless parish dinners. She and Len loved hosting family and friends for holidays, parties, family reunions, and really any reason to get together. After they retired, Margie and Len moved to their beautiful haven in Pollock Pines, where Margie continued to serve as a substitute teacher in surrounding schools. She enjoyed gardening and taking care of her little apple orchard and volunteering for Snowline Hospice. They loved visits from the kids and grandkids during which time she would share her most recent endeavors. Nothing brought Margie more joy than being in the presence of her grandchildren. Margie and Len were fortunate to be able to travel extensively with each other and with dear friends. They enjoyed visiting Laurie and Phil in Asia during the ten years they were there, with visits to China, Thailand and Australia among other countries. Margie was a patient and devoted caregiver throughout Len’s long struggle with dementia, initially attending support groups together, then continuing to visit him on a daily basis when he moved to a care home. Margaret is survived by her children, Leonard Alan Heinz (Julie), Laureen Marie Hidalgo (Philip decd.), and Rose-Ellen Heinz Fairgrieve, grandchildren Ryan (Kaitlyn), Nicole, Rocky, Buzz, Daniel, Amy, and William, siblings Linda Aguilar, Teresa Wiedwald (Jay), Daniel Aguilar, sister-in-law Sharon (Steven decd.). Margaret was predeceased by her husband of 56 years, Leonard, parents Esteban and Esther, sister Esther, brother Steven, and son-in-law Philip. Margaret and her family were blessed that in her final years of her life she was supported by long-time friends Carol Ann, Elizabeth and caregivers Crissy and Mike. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or Snowline Hospice. Memorial arrangements are pending.
Loma Lee Meyer, 93, was born on August 27, 1931, in Darby, Montana to parents Lewis and Inez Leavens. Loma passed away at Marshall Hospital in Placerville on January 31, 2025, surrounded by her children. Loma was the 3rd oldest of a family of 12 children. Loma was raised in Darby, Montana and moved to Placerville after her marriage to Oscar J. Meyer in 1951, they were married for 60 years before his passing. Loma is survived by her children Dan (Lynn), Marcella Hauge (Greg), Diane Goodman, Pat (Cheri), Time, Christine (Cindy) and Teresa (Tim) she is also survived by her 17 grandchildren and 24 greatgrandchildren, her brother Don Leavens (Suzanne), sister Pat Drye (Steve) and Connie Nordin (Ed). Loma was preceded in death by her husband Oscar J. Meyer and her son Mark, and son-in-law Rick Goodman. Loma was a loving wife and mother and will be greatly missed by all her family. In Loma’s honor, there will be a funeral mass at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 12:00 noon followed by burial at St. Patrick Cemetery.
Donna Mae Hardy
Feb. 18, 1940 – Nov. 29, 2024
Donna Mae Hardy, 84, born February 18, 1940, passed away at her home in Kelsey, CA on November 29, 2024. She is survived by her husband James Hardy, her children Jerry Hardy, Tim Hardy, Roy Hardy, Marty Hardy and April Schmidt. Grandchildren, great grandchildren and her sister Cathy Thomas. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 22, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at the House of Prayer Family Fellowship, 7901 CA-193, Garden Valley, CA 95633.
Timothy Harold Teasley
Nov. 17, 1958 – Nov. 17, 2024
Tim Teasley passed away at home in his sleep of natural causes on November 17th, 2024. Tim was the son of Terry and Luella Teasley of Pleasant Valley. Tim is survived by his daughter Jami, Mark & grandson Liam Passi of Hawaii, his daughter Tamara Breitbarth of the Bay area, sister Karen Teasley of Pleasant Valley, brother Gregory Teasley of Shingle Springs and many Aunts & uncles and cousins. There will be a Celebration of Life at the Green Valley Community Church, 3500 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville, CA, on Thursday, March 6th at 1 P.M. Tim is greatly missed by his family and friends.
Val Frank Siebal
1948 – Jan. 22, 2025
Trish Cumbra
Aug. 27, 1957 – Jan, 12, 2025
Trish Cumbra was born August 27, 1957. She’s survived by her husband of 24 years James Cumbra Jr. along with her two step children Brittany Hogan, and James Cumbra III. And her two daughters Jennifer Marcus and Katherine Marcus along with her brother Scott Sanden and many loving friends. She passed away on January 12, 2025 after a long battle with cancer. Trish will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and enthusiasm. She is forever remembered and forever loved.
Merle C. Jones
Feb. 27, 1933 – Jan. 30, 2025
Merle C. Jones, Born on February 27, 1933 in Woodland, CA., passed quietly at her home on January 30, 2025 in Placerville, CA. Merle is survived by her brother John Story, two children, 5 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
It is with great sadness we announce that Val F. Siebal, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, died peacefully at home in January 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Val was the oldest of six children, born in 1948 to Val and Ruth Siebal. A true Renaissance man with great curiosity and a wide range of interests in travel, arts, music and movement (Tai Chi and dancing), he led a very blessed and beautiful life. Happily married to his first wife, Sharron (Smith) for over 40 years, they have two beautiful daughters, Danielle (Mitch) and Michelle (Nick), and two wonderful grandchildren, Allison and Matthew.
After Sharron’s death, Val was blessed, again, meeting and marrying Chris Reeg, who brought great joy and love to this part of his life. She also brought two beautiful daughters (Regina and Stephanie) and their families to add to the Siebal clan. Their past five years have been a whirlwind of travel adventures, activity and growth and they have been so loving and happy in their short time together.
Val was professionally very successful throughout his extensive career and touched many lives in State and County service. Over the course of 40+ years, he rose through the ranks to retire as a Chief Deputy Director at CalEPA’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment and as the Director of Sacramento County’s Environment Management Department, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and hard work.
Val was a devoted family man, community member, and friend and he will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was a man of great faith and an active member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and community. He also contributed time and energy to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), actively lobbying issues that impacted families dealing with diabetes as a health issue.
He is survived by his beloved wife and his family; his siblings and their families and many cherished longtime friends. He brought love, laughter, and loyalty wherever he went, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of being part of his life.
There was a celebration of life in Val’s honor at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the ALS Association, JDRF, the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, Snowline Health, or a charity of your choice.
Merle graduated from Upper Lake High in 1951 then attended Chico State College. After marrying Norman in 1954, the family settled in Placerville where they remained for the rest of their lives. They were married for 64 wonderful years. Merle was a teacher at Charles F. Brown Elementary School. After starting of her family, she returned as a Substitute Teacher and Aid. Members of Calvary Bible Church, Discovery Hills and then Gold Country Baptist Church. Additionally, a member of the Gideons International holding both State and Local offices in the Gideons organization. Memorial services will be held on February 17th at 2P.M. at Gold Country Baptist Church, 3800 N. Shingle Road, Shingle Springs, CA 95682.
Carol Lyne Zak
Nov. 17, 1945 – Jan. 19, 2025
It is with great joy we remember the life of Carol Lyne Zak. Carol passed away peacefully on Jan. 19, 2025. Carol was 79 years old. Carol was born in Chicago, Il on November 17, 1945, to Dr. Ben and Evelyne Dykes. Her family moved to Taft, CA when she was a girl, where she grew up and attended Taft High School. Carol loved living in Taft. She embodied the small town during a special time. Carol was crowned Miss Taft in the spring of 1963 then Miss Kern County in the fall. Honors that never faded for her. Carol attended Taft Jr. College and graduated with honors. Carol married Dr. Ray Zak in Jan. 1964. They lived in Taft, where Ray worked in partnership with his father-in-law, Dr. Ben Dykes. They started their family and had three children: John, Jill and Gigi. The Zak family moved to Cameron Park, CA, in 1976 where they raised their family and practiced dentistry until 2015. Cameron Park was a wonderful place to raise their family and Carol immersed herself in the community, in her children’s schools, and at the dental office. She was President of the PTA, on the Rotary and a part of the Oak Ridge High School’s booster clubs. Carol and Ray retired in Jackson, CA. They were married 53 years before Ray’s passing. Carol was known for her many interests. She loved being a mom and Grandma, jazz music, traveling, showing horses, snow and water skiing, watching her mighty A’s and rooting on USC football. Throughout her life, Carol loved those closest to her and would have done anything she could to be of service. Carol is survived by her children: son, John Zak and wife Anne Zak; daughter’s Jill (Zak) Townsend and husband David Townsend and Gigi (Zak) Labus and husband Keith Labus; seven grandchildren, Zachary and Zoie Labus, Beck, Shane and Cade Townsend, and Georgia and Sydney Zak. Her sisters: Nancy (Dykes) McEnroe, Kathy (Dykes) and Bill Bolding, Kim (Dykes) and Bob Kaehler and their families.There will be no memorial service, but letters of condolence can be sent to: Jill Townsend, 10 Raven Lane, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656.
Jan. 30, 1929 – July 23, 2024
Viola married the love of her life, Paul LaRue Watson, on January 25, 1946 at the age of 16. During her lifetime, she had the opportunity to live in California, Hawaii and Washington. Vi had a passion for cooking and baking. She passed on this tradition to her children and grandchildren. Vi was a determined woman and a breast cancer survivor. She served as postmaster at the Mt. Aukum, California post office. Following that stint, she owned and operated the Mt. Aukum General store with husband Paul. In 1974 Vi and Paul opened the general store and post office in Waikoloa Village, Hawaii. While living in Hawaii, Vi held an active real estate sales license. She was very active in her local church, Kalahikiola Congregational Church. She enjoyed volunteering her time on the State Hospital Auxiliary Board. In her spare time, she enjoyed making beautiful stained glass windows, some of which adorn an old church in North Kohala, Hawaii. Following life in Hawaii, Vi and Paul moved to Lake Mayfield, in Mossyrock, Washington. While there, Vi joined a quilting club that created quilts which were donated to cancer patients. Vi loved life. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She loved helping people and making sure everyone was treated fairly. She will be greatly missed. A hui hoe, Vi... (until we meet again)!
Viola Marie Watson
Tourism Summit builds relationships between industry all-stars
Shelly Thorene Staff writer
The seventh annual El Dorado County Visitor’s Authority Tourism Summit brought industry leaders and business professionals together for an intense day-long series of lectures on several topics related to tourism in El Dorado County, California and the United States.
The sold out event was held Jan. 31 at the Holiday Inn in El Dorado Hills, where around 100 attendees from El Dorado County, South Lake Tahoe, Tuolumne and Placer counties and the greater Sacramento region learned valuable information regarding what draws people to the area, what different age groups are interested in and where the tourists are traveling from.
El Dorado Visitors Authority Executive Director Jody Franklin opened the lecture series with the topic: Understanding Our Visitor, Insights and Opportunities. Franklin presented data from last year that showed areas tourists visited, from April 2023-24 including downtown Placerville.
Statistics show that a majority of visitors are from Reno, Sparks, Carson City, Spanish Springs and Dayton, Nev. Globally, visitors from Germany topped the market. According to Franklin, via Visit California, travel related spending in El Dorado County from 2014-2023 accounted for $1.1 billion in spending, generating $110 million in state and local taxes. Over the years, she said progress has been made in getting people off the freeway and into the downtown Placerville area and that the information from studies can be used to make connections, building itineraries in getting tourists to visit different markets.
Returning speaker Lynn Carpenter, vice president of Marketing for Visit California, spoke about the state of tourism in California and how the fires in Los Angeles have impacted travel
to that region. She said the No. 1 issue faced was “misinformation spread by AI about the Hollywood sign burning down” and that “there were headlines in Australia saying horrific things about L.A. I don’t need to tell you that if L.A. goes down, California is not going to benefit.”
Her organization moved quickly to dispel misinformation after thousands of people searched to see if it was safe to travel to L.A. Visit California was able to provide a map of the
Snowpack dips well below average, second snow survey shows
California Department of Water
SACRAMENTO — The Department of Water Resources on Jan. 31 conducted the second snow survey of the season at Phillips Station. The manual survey recorded 22.5 inches of snow depth and a snow water equivalent of 8 inches, which is 46% of average for this location. The snow water equivalent measures the amount of water contained in the snowpack and is a key component of DWR’s water supply forecast. Statewide, the snowpack is 65% of average for this date.
On Jan. 1, the statewide snowpack was 108% of average after a series of large storms in November and December boosted snow totals in the Northern Sierra, but significant regional differences kept the Central Sierra just below average and the Southern Sierra well below average. An excessively dry January has pushed the Northern Sierra back to near average, the Central Sierra to 58 percent of average, and has led the Southern Sierra Nevada to fall to under 50% of average.
“Despite a good start to the snowpack in the Northern Sierra in November and December, we can look back as recently as 2013 and 2021 to show how quickly conditions can change for the drier,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “California missed out on critical snow-building storms in January which has pushed the state down below average for this time of year. While we are excited to see some storm activity in the coming days, sustained periods of no precipitation can dry the state out very quickly. For each day it’s not snowing or raining, we are not keeping up with what we need.”
DWR’s electronic readings from 130 stations placed throughout the Sierra Nevada indicate that the statewide snowpack’s snow water equivalent is 10.5 inches, or 65 percent of
average for this date. While forecasts show storm activity may pick up in February, California has seen several years in recent history with large early season snow totals, only for predominantly dry conditions to dominate the rest of the season.
California has effectively managed its reservoirs to keep storage above average for this time of year. Lake Oroville, the State Water Project’s largest reservoir, is currently at 126% of average for this time of year. San Luis Reservoir, which is jointly operated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, is at 101% of average for this time of year. Reservoirs in Southern California are also near or above their historical averages.
Measuring California’s snowpack is a key component that guides how California’s water supplies are managed. The data and measurements collected help inform water supply and snowmelt runoff forecasts, known as Bulletin 120, that help water managers plan for how much water will eventually reach state reservoirs in the spring and summer. This information is also a key piece in calculating State Water Project allocation forecasts each month.
Despite some recent rain, Southern California is still well below average for yearly precipitation. To prepare for any weather the region may see the rest of the season, DWR has deployed over more than watershed protection specialists to assist with the Watershed and Debris Flow Task Force organized by the California Office of Emergency Services. Members of this task force, including DWR, CalOES, Cal Fire and 400plus members of the California Conservation Corps, have been working around the clock to protect watersheds around burn scars, place materials to mitigate the risk of debris flows and ensure regional infrastructure including debris flow basins are prepared for incoming storm activity.
Founder and Managing Director for Future Partners David Bratton, left, delivers a presentation titled Generational Travel
Engaging Gen Z to Boomers, left photo. Carl Ribaudo, president and chief Strategist for SMG Consulting in South Lake Tahoe, right photo, talks about the
Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene
network with industry leaders. Left to right,
Summit speakers Brian Wright and Lynn Carpenter chat with summit attendee Sonya Bradley from Visit Sacramento.
Photo by Xavier Mascareñas / California Department of Water Resources
California Department of Water Resources Engineers Anthony Burdock and Chan Modini along with Andy Reising, Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit Manager, left to right.
BOULDER ON THE SHOULDER
Law enforcement teams up to catch suspected predator
News release
El Dorado County sheriff’s officials have shared a message from neighboring law enforcement agencies in the search for child abuse victims who suffered at the hands of Thomas Humiston.
Alpine County Sheriff’s Office deputies received a suspected child abuse report from Alpine County Child Protective Services alleging sexual misconduct with two separate victims, one age 8 and one age 10. The report identified the suspect as being 24-year-old Humiston, who at the time was residing in Douglas County, Nev. While investigating the CPS report, ACSO learned the alleged sexual misconduct had been continuously occurring for approximately three years prior in Beltrami County, Minn., before continuing to occur in the Hung A Lel Ti Native American Community in Alpine County. Investigators assigned to the case coordinated their investigation with a Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office investigator. Beltrami investigators were able to develop probable cause that Humiston committed sex crimes in Beltrami County as well.
Alpine County investigators coordinated with the Federal Bureau of Investigations due to the severity of the crimes alleged and crimes occurring in different states. Additionally, there was information leading investigators to believe that Humiston was in possession of/ distributing digital child sexual abuse material.
On Jan. 28, Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office issued a nationwide arrest warrant for Humiston. The charges outlined within the arrest warrant included two felony counts
of first degree penetration or contact with a person younger than 13.
On Jan. 30, ACSO investigators, DCSO investigators, FBI agents and a Washoe County sheriff’s deputy assigned to the Northern Nevada Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force responded to Humiston’s residence to execute a search warrant. Prior to serving the search warrant on Humiston’s residence, DCSO investigators were able to locate and arrest Humiston at a gas station.
Humiston remains in custody and is awaiting extradition back to Beltrami County, Minn. The Alpine County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the alleged sexual misconduct by Humiston while he resided in Alpine County.
This is an ongoing investigation and no other information will be released at this time.
If you or someone you know has information regarding Humiston or any other potential victims call the Alpine County Sheriff’s Office to speak with the case investigator, Deputy J. Turner at (530) 694-2231.
If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact the Sheriff’s Office Anonymous Tip Line at (530) 6941380.
EL DORADO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE CRIME LOG
Jan.
Jan.
Hills.
4:06 p.m. Battery reported at a pub on Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.
6:42 p.m. Burglary reported at a pub on Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.
Jan. 8
9:50 a.m. Trespassing reported on Highway 49 in Pilot Hill.
12:04 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 57-year-old man suspected of theft from an elder/dependent adult, ID theft, grand theft and probation on Fair Lane in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $35,000 bail. 12:56
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene
a large boulder near the westbound lane across from
Edwards A-1 Appliance in Placerville. Storms earlier this week sent the large rock crashing down the hill. In other parts of El Dorado County, the rain and winds created additional potholes and damaged trees. More wet weather is forecast
Thomas Humiston
California Department of Fish and Wildlife introduces web-based angler survey to improve experiences
California Department of Fish and Wildlife News release
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife announces the launch of a web-based platform called the California Inland Recreational Angler Survey, or CIRAS, that will provide the public with helpful fishing information driven by data submitted by anglers. The platform can be found at CIRAS.wildlife.ca.gov.
CIRAS is powered by anglers for anglers. It allows anglers to submit data regarding their fishing trips and provides immediate access to aggregated sport fishing data through an interactive “Ready to Fish” dashboard. As a crowdsourcing platform, CIRAS requires a high level of participation among the full spectrum of California inland anglers’ fishing interests to drive the quality of fishing information it provides.
CIRAS exponentially expands the reach of CDFW’s Angler Survey Boxes, a network of more than 200 metal angler survey boxes located throughout the state where anglers can record their fishing experiences on paper survey slips. While the ASB system is typically used to evaluate trout fisheries, the modern CIRAS platform will provide anglers with an opportunity to submit and interact with information about any sport fish from any fishable inland or anadromous water in the state. This means data on additional locations and fish species will be more accessible to the public than ever before. Historic data from ASBs will also be uploaded into CIRAS providing immediate utility for those fisheries while anglers begin to populate new locations and species data.
The web platform debuts its first phase for waters within CDFW’s North Central Region and will later be expanded statewide. While the new survey can be accessed using mobile devices, the platform currently requires internet connectivity to submit angling data. However, CDFW plans to incorporate off-line functionality in future phases.
“The CIRAS project represents a new opportunity
Summit Continued from A3
affected area, making it clear that the burn areas were very localized. “It was tragic what happened there, the tourism infrastructure was not touched, or touched very little,” Carpenter shared.
“Disney lost half of their business and hotels were at only 30%,” she added. Carpenter visited the area with a trip to a Michelin-starred restaurant and said she witnessed nine servers and only 10 patrons in the restaurant. She said tourism in California as a $150 billion industry and her agency looks at visitor spending, jobs, state and local revenue. About $95 million dollars was invested in pandemic recovery but full recovery had not yet been attained nationally.
Brian Wright, director of Trade and Group Business for Visit California, presented information regarding the importance of the Tourism Exchange, a program connecting travel associations and making their content visible on a global level. The exchange connects travel trade suppliers, hotels, sightseeing tours and travel agents with wholesalers who supply tickets at a lower price. He stressed that if a business isn’t online, it isn’t being seen and expressed the importance of creating an online presence. Only half of the things to do in California can be seen online, he shared. After a delicious lunch was provided by John Sanders’ Old Town Grill, former director of Public Relations for Visit California and public relations consultant moderator Jennifer Sweeney introduced two content creators, a video blogger with 160,000 followers, Maddy Edmonds, and travel writer Erika Mailman. Both spoke about how they share their travel experiences and how businesses of any size can work with content creators to increase visibility for their venue.
Edmonds’ area of concentration is the greater Sacramento region, working with media and businesses to promote area venues. Mailman and Edmonds noted various social media platforms such as Tik Tok, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube shorts for promoting content and advised business owners to have good images at the ready. Mailman said she could create an effective travel piece without having visited the destination provided there were high quality photos available. David Bratton, founder and managing director for Future Partners, presented information regarding age groups with Generational Travel Trends: Engaging Gen Z to Boomers. “I am an economist, a market researcher and data nerd but in my heart’s heart, I am really an anthropologist,”
for CDFW to better understand angler preferences and performance of fisheries, while also allowing anglers to access information to plan their next fishing trip,” said CDFW Fisheries Branch Chief Jay Rowan. “By giving access to information that other anglers have entered into CIRAS, people will be able to see what species are present, catch rates, size distributions, and the time of year others are out catching fish. CIRAS also provides an opportunity for anglers to contribute directly to scientific work at CDFW, which will help us better manage the lakes and streams and improve fishing opportunities.”
CDFW uses fishing survey data submitted by anglers to inform management actions to protect fisheries and improve angling opportunities. These surveys collect data directly from anglers about the fish they catch (or don’t catch). Data collected from angler surveys can include the species of fish caught, general fishing location and overall angling experience from a single fishing trip. This information can also serve as an alert for CDFW
Survey
Bratton said. “There’s nothing more that I like, to just study people, to listen to different groups of people ... and I can do it related to travel, my favorite thing in the world.”
He shared market research data that reveals different age groups have shared interests, which include fine dining and historical sites, but that they also differ in many ways.
Carl Ribaudo, president and chief Strategist for SMG Consulting in South Lake Tahoe, wrapped up the summit with his insights in the tourism industry with the topic: Forging connections: Transforming Visitor Experiences into Lifelong Memories. Ribaudo said that after a series of polls with visitors, he discovered a common theme: connection stating that people travel here to connect with the environment, their family, their significant other and themselves.
He did a study for the Lake Tahoe Visitor Authority and asked why people visit the area. He observed that the answers came back “in a very profound way ... to connect with my significant other, I came to connect with my grandkids, I came to connect spiritually, I came to connect with the environment. Lake Tahoe became the backdrop to connecting with something,” he reiterated. “It wasn’t just about playing a round of golf at Edgewood.”
He recalled visiting Abel’s Acres with his daughter every year when she was little. He said they used to have a pony loop and his daughter rode the pony named Pizza every fall.
“That created an indelible memory in my daughter.” He said he spoke to his daughter recently about it and she said, “Dad, I thought that was MY horse?”
He added, “When you talk about connection, memory sense of place, these are the new areas of competition.” Ribaudo asked the audience, “Are you creating memories? Are you creating connection? What makes you different? We want visitors to be advocates for our destination. We don’t want visitors to just come. We want visitors to be loyal. We want them to participate in clean up the beach day or pick up the trail day. We want them to go the extra mile . . . when you care about a place so much because the level of connection is so great.”
The summit was followed by more delectable nourishment from Old Town Grill and a selection of wines provided by Crystal Basin Cellars, Shadow Ranch Vineyards and Madroña Vineyards. For more information regarding the economic impact of travel in California visit industry.visitcalifornia.com/ research/economic-impact.
scientists when more robust surveys are necessary. CIRAS will complement, rather than replace, more intensive assessments conducted by trained staff.
CDFW encourages anglers fishing in CDFW’s North Central Region to contribute their catch information using this new platform. CDFW’s North Central Region encompasses all or parts of 17 counties, including Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, El Dorado, Glenn, Lake, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento (east of Interstate 5), San Joaquin, Sierra, Sutter, Yolo (north of Interstate 80) and Yuba. Helpful resources about CIRAS are available on the CIRAS website under “Resources.” It is the policy of CDFW to limit the collection and safeguard the privacy of personal information. CDFW is committed to promoting and protecting the privacy rights of individuals, as enumerated in Article 1 of the California Constitution, the Information Practices Act of 1977, and other state and federal laws.
Questions and comments regarding CIRAS can be submitted to CIRAS@wildlife.ca.gov.
Continued from A3
On average, California’s snowpack supplies about 30% of California’s water needs. Its natural ability to store water is why California’s snowpack is often referred to as California’s “frozen reservoir.” Data from these snow surveys and forecasts produced by DWR’s Snow Surveys and Water Supply Forecasting Unit are important factors in determining how DWR
manages the state’s water resources. DWR conducts four or five mediaoriented snow surveys at Phillips Station each winter near the first of each month, January through April and, if necessary, May. The next survey is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 28.
For California’s current hydrological conditions visit cww.water.ca.gov.
CDFW will use fishing survey data submitted by anglers via CIRAS to inform management actions to protect fisheries and improve angling opportunities. Courtesy photo
OPINION
California Matters
Fire response could make or break the careers of several politicians
“Acrisis is a terrible thing to waste,”
Stanford economist
Paul Romer said at a venture capital seminar 21 years ago, referring to the increasing levels of education in other countries that would make them more competitive with the United States.
Romer’s comment transmogrified into a political slogan when Rahm Emanuel, manager of Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential victory, attributed it to exploiting popular angst over a deep recession.
“You never want a serious crisis to go to waste,” Emanuel told an interviewer.
Notwithstanding the remark’s implied cynicism, crises — either real or merely perceived — can make or break political careers as news media and the voting public judge how those who hold or aspire to o ce respond.
John F. Kennedy’s cool defusing of the Cuban missile crisis in 1962, for instance, was the defining moment of his presidency. Gray Davis became the only California governor to be recalled after clumsily responding to a budget crisis and a financial meltdown of the electrical power system.
At this moment, California faces two crises: horribly destructive and deadly wildfires in Los Angeles County and fears that President Donald Trump will either deny federal relief or use it as leverage to force California to change its policies.
The political figure most obviously a ected by the twin crises is Gov. Gavin Newsom, who simultaneously beseeches Trump to send California many billions of dollars and positions himself as a leader of resistance to Trump’s presidential decrees and a potential 2028 presidential candidate.
How Newsom juggles those two conflicted roles could well determine not only how his governorship is remembered but whether his political career extends beyond his last two years in o ce.
The wildfire crisis is already threatening the career of another politician, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. She had left her city for a ceremonial visit to Ghana despite warnings that Los Angeles was in critical wildfire danger and upon returning was widely criticized for her initial absence and the shortcomings of the city’s fire department.
Politico reports that a poll has found that 54% of Los Angeles residents disapprove of Bass’ handling of the fire crisis while 37% approve. The poll was
■ See WALTERS, page A7
Letters to the Editor
Let air tragedy investigation unfold
EDITOR:
Listening to our president o ering his expert opinion on the causes of the tragic accident at Reagan National Airport brought back some very personal memories for me. Many years ago, I received the call that most of my fellow o cers and I hoped would never come. That is, that I had been selected to chair an investigation board for a recent aircraft accident. Fortunately, from my point of view, I was lucky in that even though the airplane had su ered major damage, no one had been killed.
As the investigation progressed, we had several very puzzling questions that defied easy answers. Naturally, our charter was to figure things out and answer these questions if at all possible. What happened was that I found each day certain individuals in the chain of command above me would call to see what progress we were making and o er possible suggestions as to the cause. I found myself spending a good deal of time away from the investigation explaining that when we were sure of our position, I would be providing a thorough briefing, but in the meantime please let us do our work.
The happy ending was we did find the cause and my superiors were satisfied with our work. The lesson for us all is to let the process proceed. Don’t try to rush it and don’t start looking for scapegoats before the facts are known. Always remember the main purpose of these investigations is to correct problems and prevent similar accidents in the future.
ROB PURDIE Cameron Park
Start harvesting our timber
EDITOR:
In his guest column on wildfire resilience, Scott Ratterman wrote an excellent and well researched article. But I feel that one thing he mentioned needs a more in depth look. The only mention regarding the forests is “vegetation and fuel management.”
As we have seen with Caldor and many other fires when it comes to wildfires, forest management needs a lot more than a sentence fragment when addressing this problem. Often times when talking of forest fires, thinning is
Guest Column
El Dorado County management and budget decisions can seem far removed from most people’s daily lives, but they have real consequences, like the threat of being snowbound. When El Dorado County communities get hit with a big snow storm this winter, there won’t be enough snowplow operators to clear our roads, making sure we can get to work, school, the grocery store or medical appointments. This is just the latest example of the county’s refusal to address low wages that are making it impossible to retain and recruit essential employees. County employees are librarians, nurses, air quality and health inspectors. We are security o cers at the courthouse and county
Low wages threaten health and safety in El Dorado County
library, engineers and construction managers improving our bridges, roads and sidewalks, and weights and measures inspectors who ensure that when you buy gas or shop at the grocery store, you get what you pay for. We provide essential services for our community, but many of us are struggling to make ends meet.
Instead of investing in the front line workers who make El Dorado communities healthy, safe places to live and work, the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors is paying a Sacramento law firm millions of dollars to block our request for competitive pay and other changes to address workforce issues. This is a waste of taxpayer dollars, especially when attorneys aren’t necessary to reach agreement on a fair contract.
We aren’t looking to buy fancy cars or vacation homes, we’re just trying to a ord the hikes in our re insurance, put gas in our cars, keep food on the table and a roof over our heads. ■
It’s not a mystery why we don’t have a full snow operation crew, why wait times for services are growing or why no one knows the answer to your question when you call. Turnover is high for county employees. El Dorado County wages are low, so folks are taking jobs elsewhere instead. In fact, wages are so low that most county employees in my union, Local 1, make under the low-income threshold and some make as little as minimum wage. Like most county employees and many other residents, I have no choice but to live in a rural area of the county where the cost of living is slightly cheaper than in Placerville, commuting a longer distance to get to work. When winter storms hit, people like me who live in rural areas can
be left snowbound, waiting hours or even days for our roads to be plowed. When that happened to me during the big winter storms in 2023, I had to use my vacation time when I physically couldn’t make it into work because the weather and road conditions were so hazardous. El Dorado County is a rural area, housing options are limited and the Board of Supervisors leaves its employees with even fewer options by refusing to o er wages that can keep up with the rising cost of living. County employees deserve respect and fair pay. We are asking for a modest wage increase to get us closer to the median income level, not for luxuries. We aren’t looking to buy fancy cars or
■
DAN WALTERS
HELEN KEITH-LASKY
commissioned by Madison McQueen, a local media firm with Republican connections. In a memo, its president, Owen Brennan, said, “Rather than follow predictable partisan patterns, voters in LA are fed up with failure and are demanding more competence from their elected officials.”
However, other political figures are not wasting the opportunities that California’s twin crises offer, as Emanuel suggested. Chief among them is Attorney General Rob Bonta. He is widely expected to run for governor next year and, although he has so far refused to say one way or the other, he has tirelessly sought public and media attention.
For months, Bonta’s office had been issuing daily press releases. But last month, as the fires burned and Trump was doing what Trump does, the production of handouts from Bonta’s media staff shifted into a higher degree.
vacation homes, we’re just trying to afford the hikes in our fire insurance, put gas in our cars, keep food on the table and a roof over our heads. We hope the residents of El Dorado County will support our call on county Supervisors Turnboo, Parlin and Laine to protect our health and safety.
The Board of Supervisors needs to get its priorities straight, investing in attracting and retaining qualified workers for essential jobs in
It recently distributed four press releases declaring his opposition to Trump policies on immigration, LGBTQ rights, air pollution and abortion. It matched the four sent out in each of the previous two days, bringing the total for the month to 48 and counting.
Another politician who may benefit from crisis is Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, the only Republican on the five-member county board and its current chairperson. That’s meant massive amounts of local and national media attention, particularly when Trump made his visit to the fires last week — so much that there’s some buzz about her as a possible 2026 candidate for governor.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
emergency medical services, county jails, mental health counseling, road construction and many other departments, and improve services in our growing county.
Helen Keith-Lasky is an employee in the Agriculture, Weights and Measures Department and the union vice president of AFSCME Local 1 which represents about 1,000 El Dorado County employees.
brought up. Thinning is important but focusing on it alone ignores the elephant in the room, timber harvest.
The national forests are not parks and timber is a crop. That’s why the U.S. Forest Service is in the Department of Agriculture. Thinning is like trimming a lawn; it doesn’t replace mowing it. Timber harvest is not only essential in reducing the fuel load, but it also promotes the creation of roads that allow heavy equipment to more efficiently and effectively move and fight a wildfire.
GEORGE ALGER Placerville
Score a meatless touchdown
EDITOR:
As Super Bowl Sunday nears, it’s worth considering the staggering number of chickens sacrificed for a single day of indulgence — an estimated 375 million, just for wings. This annual tradition, though beloved by many, comes at a great cost to animals, the planet and even our health.
Fortunately, there’s a kinder and equally satisfying alternative: plant-based wings. Made from ingredients like tofu, seitan, potatoes or even cauliflower, these options pack all the flavor without harm to animals. Brands at the store offer readyto-enjoy wings, while homemade cauliflower “wing” recipes are easy, delicious and crowd-pleasing.
This year, why not make your Super Bowl spread one of compassion and sustainability? By swapping traditional chicken wings for plant-based alternatives, you’ll score a win for animals and the environment, all while enjoying a healthier take on a game-day favorite.
ERNESTO DUVALLE Placerville
Oppose deportation plans
EDITOR:
This is where we’re headed folks: The president of the Navajo Nations is telling his people they should have their “papers” in order. Rather than do that, everyone, no matter who, should refuse to provide anything as is they’re right.
I guess the frequent MAGA letter submitters will wait until there’s no one left to speak for them when the time comes. And, by the way, your taxes are going up but, hey, at least we’ll be rid of those brown people. Right, George?
JOHN POPE Placerville
WANT TO SEE YOUR LETTER IN THE NEWSPAPER? Log on to our website mtdemocrat.com and share your opinion
AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com
AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net
AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org
CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS
CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.
El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR
RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net
PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452. We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the
month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information. GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. 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
experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The
is a
informal,
and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The
on the second and fourth Monday of each
at Denny’s Restaurant on
in Placerville at 10:00 am.
or Relationship
Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information. SENIOR PEER COUNSELING
Keith-Lasky
Lake Tahoe for going above and beyond to make El Dorado County a film friendly location and bring lucrative filming projects to the county with the Golden Slate Award.
“It is led by their amazing senior sales manager, ‘Make it Happen’ Maria,” said Dodge as she welcomed Maria Dempsey to the podium.
Executive Director of Tourism Jody Franklin took the podium next to honor Saluti Horse Adventures in Somerset with the Achievement in Tourism Award.
“A very unique business with a small team and big ideas,” Franklin said while highlighting the unique offerings that attract tourists from around the globe.
Saluti owners Brenda and Dave Ingram were unable to attend the event so Franklin accepted the award on their behalf.
Chamber board President Mark Luster of Sierra Pacific Industries had the honor of bestowing the Historic Preservation Award on The Highway 50 Association for, “preserving the legacy of the great western migration.”
“For 76 years the Highway 50 Association has engaged communities in family-friendly activities that celebrate the pioneer experience of the American West,” Luster said.
The 76th anniversary run is May 31 through June 7. The Wagon Train starts in Round Hill, Nevada and travels
People to People International, at a recent El Dorado County Board of Supervisors presentation. “This is 50 years of an extremely productive cultural exchange with our sister city, Warabi, and over 1,000 people participated in that 50 years.” April 25 through May 3 are the dates for the golden jubilee celebration. Myrna Hanses, one of the founders of the program from El Dorado County, will also be there, and the public is invited to participate in a few of the festivities.
According to Sambucetti, Hanses brought the proposal to
over Highway 50 ending in Placerville.
Luster remained at the podium to award the final distinction of the evening.
“I have the honor of presenting the Community Service Award to an extraordinary couple who truly embody the spirit of service and dedication to our community, Wendy and Dennis Thomas” Luster said.
As the couple made their way to the podium Luster outlined their combined years of public service, community engagement, commitment to civic growth and legacy of progress and compassion.
“Their legacy will forever remain etched on the heart of El Dorado County.”
El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff
make El Dorado County and Warabi sister cities to the Board of Supervisors in late spring 1974, prior to her traveling to Warabi for six weeks with 4-H youth. The board approved the idea and Hanses took a resolution to Warabi that summer. In November 1974, three Japanese officials, including Imai, came to check out El Dorado County. Once they returned home they presented the idea before their city council. Nine officials, including Imai, returned to the county in January 1975.
“They worked with Myrna and the Board of Supervisors and Placerville City Council
Leikauf administered the oath of office to the 2025 executive board: Mark Luster, president; Bryant Milesi, vice president; Adam Anderson, secretary; Gordon Helm, treasurer; and Leonard Grado, past president; along with the 2025 board: Kirk Bone, Christa Campbell, Susie Davies, Jeff England, Duane Wallace, Brian Jensen, Ed Manansala, Sol Nesbet, Brandon Sanders and Dolly Wager. Mother Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises CEO Susie Davies took to the podium to announce an unplanned award. Chamber CEO Laurel Brent-Bumb was given special kudos for her 25 years of outstanding service to the chamber. Davies outlined many of the innovative programs initiated by Brent-
to organize the idea,” Sambucetti shared with the Mountain Democrat in an email.
The Warabi City Council voted to become sister cities in a special election in March 1975, she said, adding that Hanses and Don Fallon researched organizations who could carry out the mission, and independently chose People to People International.
“That summer, 82 people came from Warabi as the first exchange with us. In 1977, 52 El Dorado County residents went to Warabi on their first official sister city exchange,” Sambucetti said.
The past 50 years, the two cities have hosted youth, officials and families from one another’s countries and celebrated the visits with parties and tours showcasing cultural traditions, places of interest and the natural beauty of their surroundings. For the last 15 years about 150 kids have gone back and forth between El Dorado County and Warabi, according to Sambucetti.
The event is steeped in tradition. Placerville’s Japanese connection started in 1869 when Japanese settlers arrived in El Dorado County, where they established the Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Colony in the Gold Hill area, according to Christopher Corey, associate state archaeologist on parks. ca.gov. A second group of colonists brought
Bumb that have contributed to the success of the El Dorado County Chamber.
Luster wrapped up the evening with some final thoughts on what it means to belong to a chamber. It being the 100th anniversary of the Chamber, Luster did a little research into the history of chambers.
“I found that the concept of chambers of commerce actually started back in the 16th century,” Luster mused.
The first chamber of commerce was formed in 1599, “to protect and promote the interest of merchants and traders,” he said looking around the room to nods of agreement. “Does that sound pretty familiar?”
Things haven’t changed
thousands of mulberry trees for silk worms to feed on. It’s where a young girl named Okei came down with a high fever and died. She was buried on the land where she had lived and part of the 50th anniversary week’s festivities include a visit to her grave.
The American River Conservancy now manages the site.
“By June of 1871, the colony (property) had to be sold because of the extended drought and financial difficulties,”
Corey notes in an article.
He wrote that a few colonists stayed behind with local land owners, the Veerkamp family.
But the memory of the colony faded until the 1950s when local historians and Japanese Americans began to research the colony and conducted interviews with Henry Veerkamp, the son of the Veerkamps who took in the colonists.
District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp is a descendant of those Veerkamp pioneers. He said he traveled to Japan 10 years ago when his daughter was with People to People.
The link between the colonists and El Dorado County helped spark the idea to form the alliance with Warabi, according to Sambucetti.
She asked the supervisors for direction on event ideas, including the proposed construction of a torii, a Japanese gate and art structure at the El Dorado County Government Center.
John Hanses, founder Myrna Hanses’ son, has offered to design it and “put together a plan,” Sambucetti said, adding that he already has volunteers for labor and materials.
The grounds of the El Dorado County Library are being considered for placement of the torii gate, near where a 25-year anniversary commemoration plaque for the event is located and cherry trees had been planted.
“We feel that this torii represents the cultural
much in the intervening years according to Luster. A chamber’s role is to advocate for businesses, facilitate networking opportunities, offer education and training and to promote commerce. But Luster wanted to point out one more thing that the chamber had to offer.
“What truly makes the chamber special is our commitment to the people,” he added. “The entrepreneurs, the small business owners, the families and the dreamers who make up the fabric of this county.”
Luster said the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce is available to help all sectors to not only survive, but to thrive. “We are working to build a better community.”
exchange between us,” Sambucetti told the board. “We feel like this would be an object that would draw people’s attention to the fact that we’ve had this sister city connection, that we have this wonderful part of our county.”
According to the proposal, “The torii gate is a traditional Japanese structure dating back to the 10th century. It symbolizes the passage from the mundane world into a sacred spiritual realm. The torii gate will stand as a symbol of the past, present, and future lives that have been and will continue to be touched and enriched by the shared experiences of our two sister cities, united through agreement, understanding, and a deep spirit of community.”
The torii gate would include stairs coming up from the parking lot. The estimated cost for construction of the torii gate and stairs is $4,000-$5,000.
According to the proposal, costs would include $2,275 for concrete, $1,600 for wood materials and $250 for fuel for heavy equipment. Daren C. George Construction of Diamond Springs would donate the work and use of the company’s equipment.
In addition, Sambucetti asked for the Board of Supervisors’ input on gifts to be presented to the Japanese visitors. She suggested a proclamation and a plaque.
“Over the years, many gifts have been exchanged and gift giving is an extremely important component of Japanese culture,” she said. She is currently looking for artists who would be interested in creating gifts.
“We will need to present a gift to the officials who come in May 2025 and a gift when we go to Warabi in late October 2025,” she said.
A group from El Dorado County, including, county or city officials, members of People to People, and El Dorado County youth are hosted by families in Warabi each year, where they attend celebrations, a parade and are given tours.
Sambucetti also encouraged the Board of Supervisors, as well as the city of Placerville, ‘to organize an official ceremony where the sister city connection is recognized and the gift is presented.”
The Board of Supervisors, after advising Sambucetti to explore ways to obtain funding, unanimously voted 5-0 to direct staff to work with People to People International and return with an update prior to October 2025.
50th anniversary celebration events
Note: Public is invited where indicated. Some activities are still in the planning stages.
April 25: Nine visitors arrive from Warabi, Japan.
April 26-27: Weekend with host families and selected host activities.
April 28: Welcome Party at Wakamatsu with a small ceremony at the gravesite (might include other activities, to be determined). Public invited.
April 29: Tour of Lake Tahoe/Old Sacramento (depending on weather or choice).
April 30: Scavenger hunt in and around Placerville. Public invited.
May 1: Wine tasting May 2: Possible groundbreaking celebration for the torii. Sayonara Party, 5:307:30 p.m. at Placerville Town Hall. Includes appetizer buffet, drinks and soft music (possible presentation of a plaque/proclamation).
Public invited.
For more information contact the El Dorado County Chapter of People to People at edcpeopletopeople.org or call (530) 306-1948.
Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
The Mountain Democrat was one of four organizations who were inducted into the Centurion ranks. Editor Noel Stack, right photo, accepts the award from Adam Anderson. Other businesses who have been chamber members for more than 100 years include the Historic Cary House Hotel, Pacific Gas & Electric and the Placerville Shakespeare Club. El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf, left photo, has fun with the crowd before swearing in the new chamber board.
Photo by Shira Giloff / Giloff Photography
COMICS
CHEERS FOR THE TROJANS
Ski with a Scientist comes to Palisades Tahoe
News release
INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. — The UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center announced the first-ever Ski with a Scientist program for the winter season. Beginning Feb. 21 and running through March 28, the weekly Friday afternoon tours invite winter sports enthusiasts to experience a unique blend of skiing and science education at Palisades Tahoe.
Each one-and-a-half-hour tour will feature UC Davis TERC staff, faculty and volunteers, who will lead participants on an engaging skiing or snowboarding excursion while exploring critical environmental issues facing local ski areas, winters and public lands. This initiative is possible through a collaborative partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and Palisades Tahoe.
The mission of the Ski with a Scientist program is to educate the winter-recreating public about TERC’s cutting-edge research and educational efforts. The program also discusses the vital role of the U.S. Forest Service in ski area management and the stewardship of public lands. By directly engaging skiers and snowboarders, the goal is to improve environmental literacy and promote responsible recreation practices.
“So many people, visitors and residents, live for skiing or snowboarding in the winter. We hope to tap into that love and use every turn on the slope to serve as a reminder of the science that goes into creating a more resilient environment, the effort it takes for a resort to create a safe environment, and more,” said TERC Education Program Manager Alison Toy.
Participants will gain insights into climate change’s impact on local ecosystems and resort operations, learn about ongoing research initiatives and explore ways they can contribute to environmental stewardship in their communities. Participants will gain an increased understanding of changing ecological conditions and be empowered to take meaningful action.
This is an opportunity to make new friends, explore Palisades Tahoe Alpine with scientists,
connect with nature and deepen your understanding of the beautiful surroundings we cherish. The tour will hold 12 participants who can handle intermediate terrain on the mountain and tour slots will be filled on a first-come basis.
Schedule of topics
• Feb. 21: Citizen Science Tahoe for a Changing Tahoe: From the amount of algae washing up on the shores to the water clarity, Lake Tahoe is changing. Education and Outreach Director Heather Segale discusses ways TERC is working to increase stewardship action in the Tahoe Basin and ways for the public to get involved.
• Feb. 28: Bees in Winter Survival Mode: Where do the bees go in winter? Are they hibernating? Dr. Rachel Vannette from the UC Davis Department of Entomology and Nematology discusses how bees overwinter.
• March 7: Snowy Trees are Cool: Gain a new appreciation for snow and its impact on successful reforestation in a changing climate with TERC Staff researcher Aaron Vanderpool.
• March 14: Microplastics Extraction: The work of a chemist often goes unseen due to the closed, sterile lab environment. Steven Sesma shares the painstaking work of removing and individually counting plastic particles found in Lake Tahoe.
• March 21: Navigating the Waters of Tahoe: Being on a boat most days in Tahoe may sound nice, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. TERC’s boat captain, Mike Cane, discusses the ups and downs of limnology and what we are finding during regular monitoring.
• March 28: Autonomous Underwater Vehicles from Tahoe to Antarctica: We collected over a million data points across Tahoe during the Caldor fire in hazardous conditions. We measured ocean temperatures below the Antarctic ice shelves. Dr. Alex Forrest and Graduate Student Kenny Larrieu explain how.
For more information visit tahoe. ucdavis.edu/events/ski-scientist or contact Alison Toy at natoy@ ucdavis.edu.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Wanting what everyone wants, what’s socially acceptable and what’s popular don’t always lead to happiness. To notice your own preferences is an act of love. Bring your attention to the nuances that light you up, as these are paths to joy.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Relationships that inspire, uplift and energize you are your fuel. Set a boundary around draining connections while deepening bonds that feel nourishing. Reflect weekly: Did this connection feed my soul or drain it?
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Today represents a meaningful turning point for you, both in your decisions and in how you’re reckoning with your past and your potential. It’s no small thing to come to the new day with clarity and resolve.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). You know when your energy is peak and when it’s likely to wane. Structure your day so the most vibrant hours go to meaningful purposes, not the ones that merely fulfill your sense of duty or financial bottom line. You deserve to get the best of you.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Leadership is a learning process. Listen, then guide. The more you understand about your people and your goal, the better you’ll be at delivering all to the finish line. Humility is the secret sauce of inspiration. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You’re drawn to the idea of decluttering -- not just physical possessions but emotional and logistical “noise.” A mantra like “Clear, calm, creative” will guide your decisions.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Take a moment to ground yourself before work, interactions or decisions. Use cues like deep breaths or small rituals to reset. Your whimsical, intimate style depends on being fully present.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Making an impression is important to you, and it
n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
n RUBES by Leigh Rubin
n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
photo
The Oak Ridge High School traditional cheer squad has another reason to be in good spirits. The Trojans captured the 2025 state championship title earlier this month at the CIF Cheer Invitational State Championship competition.
Photo by Alison Toy / UC Davis
UC Davis prepares for its special Ski with a Scientist program in the Tahoe Basin.
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
Stellar students
Congratulations to Gino Brunolli and Camryn Kelly, both of El Dorado Hills, who were named to the University of Nebraska – Lincoln Dean’s List
Congratulations to Chase Mueller of Shingle Shgne, who was named to the Abilene Christian University Dean’s Honor Roll.
Congratulations to Vyom Thakkar of El Dorado Hills, who recently graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Congratulations to Chandreyi Chakraborty of El Dorado Hills, who was named to the Georgia Institute of Technology Dean’s List.
Congratulations to Kirsten Olson of El Dorado Hills who was named to University of Iowa Dean’s List.
Feb. 7
Imagination Theater at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents “Stuart Little, The Musical” by Joseph Robinette and Ronna Frank. Through March 2. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.
Achilles Wheel with special guest Jen Rund (Americana psychedelic jam) will perform 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com. Lynsey and Prime Country will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
Peter Asher – A musical memoir featuring the hits of Peter & Gordon will perform at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. The show starts at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Feb. 8
Imagination Theater is holding auditions for “The Importance of Being Earnest,” by Oscar Wilde. Check in is at 9:30 a.m. actors will be seen from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information visit itplacerville.org.
A free House of Worship Security symposium with law enforcement takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hills Church, 800 White Rock Road in El Dorado Hills. For more information email Sgt. Steve Scho eld at scho es@edso. org.
Face in a Book in El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts a Storytime Hour with JaNay Brown-Wood, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Her new book, “On Our Way!
Adapted by Joseph Robinette with music by Ronna Frank and lyrics by Robinette and Frank, “Stuart Little: the Musical” tells the tale of a shy and thoughtful mouse who lives with his human family in New York City.
Based on E. B. White’s 1945 debut children’s novel, “Stuart Little,” is a wonderfully enchanting story that captivates young audiences with its entertaining characters and engaging narrative which masterfully combine a sense of nostalgia with contemporary relevance.
White went on to write nearly 20 books in his time, including, none other than “Charlotte’s Web,” another beloved children’s novel. He is also the “White” in “Strunk and White,” authors of “The Elements of Style,” an english language style guide for formal grammatical usage.
Imagination Theater’s production is directed by Becca Kaldunski, a stalwart director
Sylvia Coleman Placerville Arts Association
Placerville Arts will be in the flow Monday, Feb. 10, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the Placerville Senior Center with a break at around 2:30 p.m. for refreshments and getting artfully energized with other artists. The public is invited.
Come and learn everything about “using resin as an art
and volunteer at the theater with a passion for encouraging young people to, “discover their spark.”
“That special something that excites, motivates and gives them a sense of purpose and confidence,” Kaldunski said.
“Community theater, and specifically Imagination Theater, played a pivotal role in my son’s journey,” she said. “It helped him uncover his love for the performing arts and develop his talent.”
Kaldunski said she had a desire to give back and create opportunities for others to experience the same joy, growth and self-discovery.
“It has been incredibly fulfilling to foster a safe, fun and engaging space where children and teenagers can explore their creativity, develop new skills and build confidence,” she said.
Jemma Holmes, 13, who plays Stuart’s best friend, the canary, Margolo has found that playing the role is very similar to herself.
“She’s pretty close,” said Holmes.
Although she did have a bit of
medium.” The presenter this month is Sierra Nevada Foothills artist, Aimee Lamoureux. Lamoureux specializes in creating works of art from resin. Drawing inspiration from the nature, geography and geology of the northern state Lamoureux creates one of a kind works of functional art. She now enjoys sharing her work at Placerville’s Art Studio 360 located on Main Street. To learn about
Lamoureux and her art visit her Facebook page facebook.com/ aimeelamoureuxstudio. Plus, at the February meeting, Ralene Nunn will be o ering a brief presentation on senior services available to El Dorado County residents. There are services in EDC that a lot of people just have never heard of. It’s time to be in the know.
FParking is free during market hours. Rescue Community Center hosts its Crab Feed Fundraiser. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter.com. Rootsman Project Marley Fest (Reggae) will perform 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room
Don’t miss “Atelier on Main,” the 2025 PAA Member Exhibition, through Feb. 23, at Arts and Culture El Dorado’s SwitchboardGallery in Placerville. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon-4 p.m. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado. org. Placerville Arts Association is a nonprofit group whose passion is that they and the surrounding communities be closely interwoven — communities that come to view art as essential to life. Whether you are a beginning artist, a seasoned artist or just an artlover, come and partake in the wonders of fine art. New members are welcomed all year. To learn more visit placervillearts. com or find the PAA Facebook.
Mountain Democrat photos by Andrew Vonderschmitt
Above, Stuart (Zoey Baxter) is o ered an array of scrumptious foods. Below, Margola (Jemma Holmes) o ers advice to Stuart Little (Zoie LaFramboise) after napping on the window sill.
■ See STUART, page B10
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene
Stuart Little (Zoey Baxter) and cast share some select scenes at the El Dorado County Library. The show opens at Imagination Theatre this Friday. Courtesy photos
Celebrate Black History Month on self-guided tour
Daniell Wood California Museum
SACRAMENTO — In honor of Black History Month, the California Museum is presenting a self-guided Black History Tour throughout February highlighting the contributions of Black Californians to the state’s rich history. Focusing on themes of resilience, activism, democracy and community, the tour features notable Black individuals, movements and organizations found within the California Museum’s signature and temporary exhibit content.
“The tour is designed for visitors to identify Black history
throughout the entire museum,” said California Museum volunteer and public program specialist Jessica Cushenberry, who developed the first self-guided tour in 2023.
“History is not exclusive to one grouping of people, it’s inclusive, and the broader the perspective we provide, the more we can understand each other,” Cushenberry said.
The tour is updated every year to include new exhibits and additions to the museum. New to this year’s tour are stops within the temporary exhibit “Our War Too: Women in Service,” where visitors will learn about the pioneering Black women who served in World War II. Among them are the members of the 6888th Central Postal
Directory Battalion, the first and only all-Black, all-female battalion deployed overseas, and the focus of the recent Netflix movie “The Six Triple Eight.”
The tour stops at digital displays covering the lives and legacies of Black California Hall of Famers such as the late Quincy Jones, Charlotta Bass and the recently inducted Tina Turner. Also on view is “Kamala Harris: The First But Not The Last,” a new addition to the signature exhibit “Women Inspire,” exploring the life and career of the former vice president.
The self-guided tour takes approximately one hour but is designed for visitors to explore the
museum at their own pace. A digital copy of the tour map with markers highlighting focal points is available at californiamuseum.org/blackhistory. Printed maps are available with paid museum admission through Feb. 28. To purchase tickets or find visitor information, visit californiamuseum. org/visit.
The California Museum celebrates the state’s rich history, its diversity and its unique influence on the world of ideas, innovation, art and culture. Established in 1998, the museum is home to the official California Hall of Fame and many more exhibitions inspiring visitors to make a mark on history. Learn more or plan a visit at californiamuseum.org.
Two acoustic duos come together for one magical night
Paul Emery Presents News release
Two acoustic music duos are coming together for one magical night of music and camaraderie in Nevada City as part of a winter concert series produced by Paul Emery Presents.
Alice Howe & Freebo along with Peter Wilson & Moe Dixon will share the stage at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, at the Nevada Theatre as part of a seasonal concert series known as Nevada City Live. This will be the first time all four friends, collaborators and mutual admirers will perform at the same place at the same time.
“There will be a lot of fun, a lot of musical interplay, a lot of cross talk and a lot of really good music,” said Freebo. “Often if you have good musicians and experienced performers, that can be magic.”
“It will be an intimate experience where musicians get to exchange their art first hand,” said organizer Peter Wilson. “I’m really excited about being with Moe and Alice and Freebo, all at the same time. We’ve shared and crossed paths for many years but this will be a first.”
Freebo is considered one of the great bassists of the modern era and is best known for his decade of touring and recording with Bonnie Raitt. He has recorded with Crosby, Stills & Nash, Maria Muldaur, John Mayall, Ringo Starr, Dr. John, Neil Young and more. Wilson is an award-winning singer-songwriter and guitarist with numerous recordings to his credit. Locally he is known as a key member of the Deadbeats — a long running
tribute band to the music and songs of the Grateful Dead. He’s also a founding member of Paul Emery’s 1000 Kisses Deep — The Songs of Leonard Cohen.
“When Alice & Freebo were here last summer I was able to get them to join me in the studio,” Wilson said. “I was putting the finishing touches on a record and Freebo added a couple of bass parts and Alice added vocals to a tune.”
For nearly a decade, Los Angelesbased Freebo & Alice Howe have traveled as a non-stop touring duo performing 100 shows a year throughout the U.S. and Europe.
“We are a well-oiled machine at this point,” said Howe, a rising voice in Americana music.
Fans know Howe as a skilled guitar-playing singer-songwriter. She showcased her musical prowess on her second album, “Circumstance” with 11 stirring tracks of Americana dotted with blues, folk, country, soul and rock. Filled with original music, the album was co-written and produced by Freebo and recorded at Fame Studios in Muscle Shoals, Ala. where legends Etta James and Wilson Pickett once shook the walls.
“I always loved my parents’ vinyl collection I felt like it was a channel to music I loved but missed,” Howe said.
Meeting Freebo opened doors to that missed era. Now the two are creating “hybrid” music paying homage to musical styles they both love a combination of folk, 1970s rock, blues, R n’ B made distinct by their beautiful harmonies.
“We do come from different generations but we have so much
e Prospector Entertainment
e old Placerville Soda Works (Yes, the place with the Mine Sha — temporarily closed) (DOWNSTAIRS)
(UPSTAIRS) for the 21+ Year Old Crowd
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Global vs Darts Tournaments 6:00pm Plug & Play Music Venue (house mains, monitors and mics)
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Try our House Blended Mimosas, Great Wines and some of the Best and Local Beers around!
Live Music Fridays & some Saturdays. Coming Soon — Trivia and Comedy Shows Saturday & Sunday Nights
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See you
in common musically. Music is the universal connection that brought us together. I think together we’ve become better as a duo,” said Howe who is 34. Freebo’s musical career started in the 1970s, two decades before Howe was born.
Freebo has appeared on Saturday Night Live, The Midnight Special, The Muppet Show and in concert with the legendary Spinal Tap. His music reflects a compassionate concern for the world and people around him and his lyrics and open stage banter have helped him connect with listeners worldwide.
Freebo and Alice recently finished their first album together, recorded at a live show in Port Townsend, Wa. The album is expected to be released next month, and could be available in time for the Nevada City show. They also make an appearance on Peter Wilson’s upcoming album.
“We’re excited to have a piece of what we do on stage that people can take home,” said Howe.
Freebo and Dixon first met during their college days, in Massachusetts, and have been playing music together since the 1980s.
“Moe has been a friend of mine for years. He’s an incredible human being and a world class musician,” said Freebo.
“When we get together it’s really, really special. He’s one of the best bass players in the world and one of the top songwriters in the country,” Dixon said.
Dixon honed his musical chops in Greenwich Village as a youngster following in the footsteps of many
great folk heroes. He is a familiar name on the festival and concert club circuit with inspiring original songs, fiery fingerstyle and ragtime guitar and inventive ukulele playing. He gained national recognition through his contributions to the children’s group Rosen, Shontz, and Dixon. He’s written themes to Bob Hope specials and Warren Miller ski movies, and performed with the Wheeling Symphony and the West Suburban Symphony of Chicago. Dixon and Wilson first met in Vermont in the 1970s and toured up and down the East Coast together. They’ve been friends ever since. With their cohort, Mountain John Hilligoss the trio have written a huge catalogue of songs, toured and released an album together as part of their annual creative pilgrimage deep in the Pennsylvania mountains known as the Troubadour Camp.
“Peter’s a wonderful person. He’s an old, old friend and one of the most talented musicians I know,” said Dixon.
For Dixon, who plays in symphonies, he prefers the humanity, authenticity and the in-the-moment imperfections of folk music. He wants the audience to walk away with a different feeling in their heart that they can never recreate again.
“It’s easy to play it perfectly. It’s hard to make it imperfect. Anyone can play Bach but few people can play magic,” said Dixon.
The show starts at 7:30 on Saturday at the Nevada Theatre in Nevada City. For more information visit paulemerymusic.com.
The Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera announces its concert schedule for the 2025-26 season. The new season, which begins Oct. 11, 25, includes seven programs across nine concerts. Evening performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. and matinée performances will begin at 2 p.m. at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center.
Among the highlights of the new season are four engagements with Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor Ari Pelto, as well as concerts featuring renowned pianist Jeremy Denk and cellist Zlatomir Fung. Other guests include conductors Melisse Brunet, Sahar Nouri and George Manahan.
Musical highlights include Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 to close the season, Tchaikovsky’s “Romeo and Juliet Overture,” Copland’s “Appalachian Spring Suite,” Faure’s “Requiem,” and Brahms’s Symphony No. 1. Opera will be an integral part of the season, with a performance of Bartok’s “Bluebeard’s Castle” and two fully staged performances of Verdi’s wildly popular “La Traviata.” Next season the SP&O is committed to performing a variety of works by
familiar and unfamiliar composers alike. Composers Dolores White, Jessie Montgomery and Daniel Catán will have works featured throughout the season.
“Looking at next season’s programs, it’s impossible not to feel a tremendous sense of anticipation,” said Giuliano Kornberg, SP&O CEO. “The SP&O exists to provide our community with unparalleled classical music, and that is exactly what this new season will offer: dynamic, diverse music produced by exceptional talent.”
In addition to the exciting lineup of artists and programs, there is more good news for audiences. Ticket sales continue to be strong, with limited seats available for most concerts, leading to the SP&O adding a second performance for “La Traviata” in March and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in May. Subscribers will have the option of two ticket packages, with one including all evening performances and another including five Saturday evenings and two Sunday afternoons.
Subscription packages are on sale now. Single tickets will go on sale in August. For more information or to buy a subscription, visit sacphilopera. org or call (916) 476-5975. Sacramento
Courtesy photos
Freebo & Alison Howe team up with Peter Wilson & Moe Dixon for a night of music and camaraderie.
The sun will come out
Ed Sengstack Harris Center for the Arts
FOLSOM — Leapin’ lizards! Broadway’s favorite orphan is back. Harris Center for The Arts presents the Tony AwardWinning musical “Annie,” performing Feb. 14-16. This multi-week tour is produced by Carolyn Rossi Copeland and Crossroads Live North America.
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package.
Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in this new production — just as you remember it and just when we need it most. This celebration of family, optimism and the American spirit remains the ultimate cure for all the hard knocks life throws your way.
“Annie” is directed by Jenn Thompson, who at the age of 10 stepped into the role of “Pepper” in the original Broadway production, choreographed by Patricia Wilcox and with orchestrations by Dan DeLange. The tour music supervisor is Matthew Smedal. Talitha Fehr is the music coordinator and Andrew David Sotomayor is the music director.
“This show, with its iconic title character, continues to delight generations of theatre lovers old and new by joyfully singing directly into the face of great adversity with perseverance, guts and guile,” said Thompson. “For decades, ‘Annie’ has continued to shine brightly, not only as an appeal to our better angels, but also as an example of the thrill of hope, hard-won: promising a better ‘Tomorrow’ not only for Annie herself, but for all who need her message now more than ever.”
In the title role of Annie is Hazel Vogel, a 12-year-old from Towson, M.D., most recently seen in the North
American tour of “Les Misérables.”
Returning principal cast includes Stefanie Londino as Miss Hannigan, Christopher Swan as Oliver Warbucks, Julia Nicole Hunter as Grace and Mark Woodard as FDR. Also starring in the tour are Rhett Guter as Rooster and Isabella De Souza Moore as Lily St. Regis. Kevin, a 7-year-old labradoodle from Georgia, stars as Sandy.
The orphans are Aria Valentina Aldea, Eva Lizette Carreon, Anna Dillon, Kylie Noelle Patterson, Olive Ross-Kline and Nora West.
The featured ensemble includes Nick Abbott, Anthony DaSilva, Savannah Fisher, Alloria Frayser, Brooke Olivia Gatto, Matt Gibson, Caroline Glazier, Danny Lindgren, Ryan Mulvaney, Melinda Parrett, Drew Tanabe and Stephanie Wahl.
The design team includes scenic design by Wilson Chin, costume design by Alejo Vietti, based on lighting design by Philip Rosenberg, sound design by Ken Travis, hair & wig design by Ashley Rae Callahan and casting by Paul Hardt Casting, LLC.
The “Annie” tour stage management team is led by production stage manager Brigham Johnson, stage manager Tara Tolar-Payne and assistant stage manager Olivia Gordon. The company management team is led by company manager Royce Matthews with assistant company manager Angela Strohbeck.
Individual tickets for “Annie” are on sale now at the Harris Center box office at (916) 608-6888 or online at HarrisCenter.net. Box office hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and one hour before showtime. Harris Center for the Arts is located at 10 College Parkway, Folsom.
Hailed by the Chicago Tribune as, “one of the best family musicals ever penned!” “Annie” features the book by Thomas Meehan, music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Martin Charnin. All three authors received 1977 Tony Awards for their work.
Let the chamber music move you
News release
RASS VALLEY— InConcert
GSierra will launch its new Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center (CMS) Residency Series on Saturday, Feb. 8, at 2 p.m..
Violinist Arnaud Sussmann, cellist David Finckel and pianist Wu Han — three world-renowned musicians from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center — will open the new CMS Residency Series. The new series features musicians exclusive to the CMS roster showcasing both seasoned masters and rising stars, all celebrated for their extraordinary artistry in chamber music.
Han and Finckel are dynamic
performers, renowned educators and co-artistic directors of CMS and the Bay Area’s Music@Menlo. They are also acclaimed recording artists with their own label. Joining them is violinist Sussmann, praised for his “sweet and smooth sound” reminiscent of the great Jascha Heifetz. Sussmann is a rising star who continues to captivate critics and audiences worldwide.
Han will perform on one of InConcert Sierra’s two recently acquired Hamburg Steinway concert grand pianos, enhancing the concert with its tonal brilliance. The piano will be moved from its storage
Photo by Matthew Murphy
Hazel Vogel as Annie and the Orphans in the 2024-25 National Tour of “Annie,” is coming to Folsom this month.
Photo courtesy of Carolyn F Valle
Arnaud Sussmann, Wu Han and David Finckel captivate audiences with tonal expression.
Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Sheriff’s Posse of El Dorado County invites you to a Comedy Night at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. For tickets visit eventbrite.com/o/ el-dorado-county-sheriffs-posse-66624679843.
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host a Mommy and Me Dance at the District Gym. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
Cameron Park Community Services District will host Ties and Tiaras for dads and daughters from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Cameron Park CSD Assembly Hall. For more information visit cameronpark.org.
Sierra Vista Winery will host acclaimed pianist, Jennifer Reason from 4-7 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.
Stereotype will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera presents Russian Masters: Prokofiev and Stravinsky. 7:30 pm at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center. For tickets and more information call (916) 476-5975 or visit sacphilopera.org.
Cripple Creek with American Mile will perform at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. The show starts at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Attend an author talk with Skyler Farasat at Fairytale Town. Skyler, 11, writes under the pen name Skye+Fam and is the author of five books that build self-esteem. The event is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit fairytaletown.org.
Feb. 9
Atrium Artists Gallery EDH at the El Dorado Hills Town Center will host a closing reception for the current exhibit, “Life is Our Canvas” from 1-4 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
Crocker Art Museum presents a Classical Concert: Roger Xia. The show starts at 3 p.m. For tickets and more information visit crockerart. org.
Feb. 10
Snowline Health Dementia Connection hosts Addressing Dementia Challenging Symptoms of Supporting Mood and Sexuality Complications at Foothills Church in Cameron Park, 1:30-3 p.m. For more information call (530) 621-7820 or email dementia@ snowlinehealth.org.
Cantare Chorale will host open auditions. Join a rehearsal and audition to be a member. For more information visit cantarechorale. com.
Feb. 11
Snowline Health Dementia Connection hosts free Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment groups at Foothills Church in Cameron Park from 1-2:30 p.m. For more information call (530) 621-7820 or email dementia@snowlinehealth.org.
The El Dorado Hills Genealogical Society will host a Zoom meeting at 6 p.m. to hear genealogist Melinda Kashuba, present A Strategy For Locating Regional, Neighborhood and Site-Specific Map Resources in searching for family ancestors. Contact Pat Kriz at patkriz@earthlink.net in advance if you wish to join the presentation. Attend a Regional Chamber Networking Social at the Regency Clubhouse at Toll Brothers in Folsom from 5-7 p.m. Visit Folsom Chamber for more information folsomchamberofcommerce-dev. growthzoneapp.com/ap/Events/Register/kgFE5RnizCVC1
Feb. 12
Musings with the Maestro — Antonin Dvorak. Join Music in the Mountain’s Artistic Director and Conductor Ryan Murray for a lecture on the music of Antonin Dvorak, including his popular and lesserknown works, and his influence on American classical music. The event starts at 7 p.m. and will be hosted via Zoom. For more information visit musicinthemountains.org
The Sons in Retirement – Gold Country branch meets the second Wednesday of the month at the Cameron Park Country Club. Check out the club and be a guest for a complimentary lunch. Contact Branch 95’s membership chairman at SIRBranch95@gmail.com for more details.
Feb. 14
Shadow Ranch Vineyards, 7050 Fair Play Road in Fair Play, is celebrating Valentine’s Weekend with a Wine and Chocolate Pairing Feb. 14-16, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring chocolate from Annabelle’s Chocolate Lounge, these perfectly paired candies are a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend. For reservations call (530) 6202785.
Gwinllan Estate Vineyard and Winery will host a Valentine’s Day Celebration Chocolate and Wine Pairing. In partnership with Annabelle’s Chocolates participants will enjoy five luscious Annabelle’s chocolates with wine pairings, Feb. 14 & 15, noon to 5 p.m. For reservations or more information visit gwinllanestate.com.
Myka Estates, 3405 Carson Court, Placerville, hosts a Valentine’s Day Luncheon. Call (530) 644-3474 for more information and reservations.
Narrow Gate Vineyards, 4282 Pleasant Valley Road in the Pleasant Valley area, is celebrating Valentine’s Day in the Narrow Gate Cellar Feb. 14 & 15 at 1 p.m. with a three-course lunch and wine pairing. Frank has a specially selected line-up of current and newly released wines, library wines and a special pre-release of the Capstone Cabernet Sauvignon all paired with Teena’s delicious Valentine’s menu. For reservations go to narrowgatevineyards.orderport.net/wines/ Tickets or call (530) 644-6201.
Gwinllan Estate Vineyard and Winery will host a Valentine’s Day dinner at 6:30 p.m. Experience an exquisite evening where culinary artistry meets the finest wines in a harmonious five-course journey. For reservations or more information visit gwinllanestate.com. The Sacramento Zoo will host Wild Love, an unforgettable evening of animal love and quirky courtship. Enjoy a romantic candlelit Italian dinner and an interactive and educational night that blends nature, humor and science in the most unexpected way. Ages 21 and older welcome. For tickets or more information visit saczoo.org/wild-love.
Feb. 15
Join the Sherwood Demonstration Garden Rose Team and Ada Brehmer for an up-close pruning demonstration in the SDG Rose Garden in Placerville, 9 a.m. to noon. In case of rain, class will be rescheduled for Feb. 22. Register online at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=44192. Drop-ins welcome.
El Dorado County Bridal Expo will take place at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission. Multiple vendors will BE in attendance providing samples of their wares. For more information visit eldoradocountybridalexpo.com.
Toogood Winery, 7280 Fair Play Road in Fair Play, hosts Private Port Tastings on Saturdays and Sundays in February with seatings starting at 11:30 a.m. To make a reservation call (530) 620-1910. Taste 12 ports in one visit. Ports will be paired with an assortment of cheeses and sweet bites.
Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery in the Pleasant Valley area hosts A Weekend for Love Birds, 3-6 p.m. Enjoy sparkling wine, chocolates, live music by Ed Wilson and more. For more details or to make a reservation call the tasting room at (530) 622-7221. Dive into a night of delicious fun
Now
This Valentine’s Day, you can win big while supporting a meaningful cause by entering MORE’s Sweetheart Ra e. For $100 per ticket, you’ll be entered for a chance to win cash prizes and 100% of your purchase will bene t adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Tickets are limited to 400 and are available at: MORE, 399 Placerville Drive, Placerville. For more details call (530) 622-4848. The winner will be selected at 1 p.m. Feb. 14 live at morerehab.org.
B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents “The White Chip” by Sean Daniels at The So a in Sacramento through Feb. 9. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays” by Ken Ludwig through Feb. 16. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre. com.
Registration for the The Travis Scott Memorial 5k Walk/Run for Shatterproof is open through Feb. 23. The run will take place at the El Dorado trailhead in Camino. The event starts at 9 a.m. and registration
is available in person. For more information and to register early visit shatterproofcyof.donordrive.com.
Marshall Hospital Auxiliary is looking for volunteers. Help people and make new friends. Interviews are held monthly. For more information call Norma at (530) 676-1844 or email grizzyq98@gmail. com.
The Murer House Foundation continues its Italian language classes at the Murer House Learning Center in old Folsom. For more information and to enroll visit murerhousefoundation.org/languageclasses.
NAMI El Dorado County’s free 8-session class for caregivers of people with Mental Illness starts Wed., 2/12/25. Call 530-306-4101 X6 info@namieldoradocounty.org
City of Plymouth California Historic Placerville. Shared kitchen and bath. $900 per month, includes all utilities 530-409-7168
analysis, cost accounting and analysis, business law, basic economics, follows modern of ce procedures and practices, methods and equipment and research techniques. Is familiar with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and Procedures (GAAP); General Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS).
Quali cations
Any combination of education and experience which would provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required quali cations would be:
Two years of accounting and nancial work, and a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration or a related eld.
Licensing Requirements:
Dental Hygienst
Dr. Russell Jones is seeking a dedicated and skilled Dental Hygienist to join our team. Our private practice offers a friendly and supportive environment where you have the opportunity to work with a passionate group of professionals.
Great hours. Full time, with hours from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. One hour lunch break. We offer a 401k plan. Great pay. Immediate position.
To apply please send your resumé to russelljonesdds@gmail.com
• Valid Class C California driver’s license may be required for some positions.
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
Experience the unique vision of Collidoscope at the Crocker
Crocker Art Museum
News release
The Crocker Art Museum hosts Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers Retro-Perspective, on view Feb. 7 through May 4.
Organized by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino and The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of Riverside Art Museum, the exhibition features art by the internationally acclaimed artist duo (and brothers) Einar and Jamex de la Torre. The 42 mixedmedia works include blown-glass sculptures and installation art, plus some of the artists’ latest lenticulars with imagery that changes as the viewer moves from side to side.
Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, México, and now living both in San Diego and Baja California, brothers and collaborating artists Einar and Jamex de la Torre have navigated life on both sides of the border since they were young and have inherited their own unique vision of the Latinx experience and American culture. Their work is visually complex and infused with humorous elements exploring art, history and material culture. Working with glass, resin, lenticular prints and found objects, the brothers create work inspired by Mexican folk art, popular culture, religious imagery, consumer culture and mythology. Many elements of the exhibition, including the title and curatorial framework, try to echo the creative process of the artists, serving as an allegory of their intellectual pursuits, their technical use of materials and media, and their use of wordplay and poetic riddles.
“The title of the exhibition mirrors the artists’ use of wordplay, alluding to the kaleidoscopelike quality of their works and the collision of imagery, themes and references that comprise their artistic language,” said the exhibition’s curator
Selene Preciado. “The artists use critique layered with humor as a tool to unpack the tensions and contradictions of our postcolonial transcultural identity.”
Einar de la Torre said he and his brother don’t exactly consider themselves glass artists, but treat glass as one component in their three-dimensional collages. The result, he said, speaks volumes about the Latino experience in America. “The complexities of the immigrant experience and contradicting bicultural identities, as well as our current life and practice on both sides of the border, really propel our narrative and aesthetics,” he said. “We are truly honored for our work to tour museums across the United States.”
Prior to its installation at the Crocker, Collidoscope was presented at museums throughout the country including the Art Museum of South Texas, the Stanlee & Gerald Rubin Center for the Visual Arts, the Philbrook Museum of Art, and the Corning Museum of Glass. The exhibition will continue on to The Mint Museum in South Carolina.
The Crocker will host a variety of exhibitionrelated programs and classes including the ¡Descubra! free family festival that showcases the extraordinary scope of Latinx art and cultural contributions. Inspired by Collidoscope, the festival serves as a closing ceremony for the exhibition on May 4, 2025.
Live performances and creative art activities celebrate and platform local artists and performers. A series of mini-talks and docent led tours of the exhibition showcase the bi-national and bi-cultural background of artists, Jamex and Einar de la Torre, a pair of brothers whose work connects to issues and ideas often explored in border and Chicano art. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino will be onsite to offer hands-on
Create-It! activities as well as highlight local Latino artists. Educators and families can download these activities from the Smithsonian Learning Lab. Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers RetroPerspective is a nationally traveling exhibition organized by The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum (The Cheech) and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino. Support for the national tour has been generously provided by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino. The exhibition was curated by Selene Preciado. The Crocker Art Museum is located at 216 O St. in Sacramento. For more information call (916) 808-7000 or visit crockerart.org.
Become immersed at Viewpoint Photographic Art Center
Roberta Alvarado
Viewpoint Photographic Art Center
Beginning Feb. 5, Viewpoint Photographic Art Center in Midtown Sacramento presents in its Main Gallery, Faces of America: Getting By in Our Economy and in the Step-Up Gallery the photographs of Mark “Geo” Thomas and John Romie in an exhibit
titled The Road. Faces of America: Getting By in Our Economy is a traveling national exhibit featuring the photographs of Caroline Gutman, Maen Hammad, Cindy Elizabeth and Adam Perez commissioned by the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Photographer Adam Perez will be attending
Viewpoint’s Artists’ Reception taking place on Sunday, Feb. 9 from 1-4 p.m.
In the 1930s, amid the greatest economic crisis in American history, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt launched numerous initiatives to help the nation get back on its feet, among them a documentary photography project.
From 1935 to 1944, the Farm Security Administration commissioned more than a dozen photographers to record conditions in the country’s hardhit rural areas. The photographers’ mission was to “introduce America to Americans,” to highlight people who had been overlooked. The economic situation in the United States today bears little resemblance to the Great Depression. However, many challenges facing Americans today would feel familiar to the FSA photographers of the 1930s. Even after significant improvements over the last few decades, many households lack financial stability, and many communities are not able to provide residents opportunities for a better life. These economic problems
are intertwined with challenges facing American democracy. Many of those who have not benefited from economic growth — and even many who have — feel left out of institutions they believe do not look after their interests.
At this moment of increased distrust, it is important once again to introduce America to Americans.
Faces of America: Getting By in Our Economy sets out to do just that. A product of the Commission on Reimagining Our Economy from the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, this exhibit is made up of images that capture life for working people in the twenty-first-century American economy.
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Faces of America seeks to redefine typical images of the economy. Rather than focus on the very rich or the very poor, the Commission engaged four photographers — Gutman, Hammad, Elizabeth, and Perez — to capture what it looks like to try to get by in the United States today in communities that fall around the national median income ($70,784 for a household in 2021). The photographs capture Americans in these communities at work, at home and helping their neighbors. This project aims to center median-wage workers in images of the economy and in discussions of economic policy. By introducing these Americans to America, the Commission hopes to offer a new portrait of how Americans are doing and how the nation’s economy and democracy might be reimagined.
In the Step-Up Gallery the photographs
of Thomas and Romie in an exhibit titled The Road will be showcased. The Road. A feature, an artery, a liberation and a nemesis. Its surface, bare rock to dirt, cobblestones to tiles and asphalt to concrete. Traveling on foot, hoof, carriage, cycle and automobile, it lives for us. The Road is omnipresent in commerce and defense, and it connects living communities. Many have made great riches on The Road, alongside The Road, and even beneath it. It is often the subject of literature, prose and music.
The Road, through our many miles of travel, has been a source of experience and inspiration. It gives us not only a means to an end but, at every turn, an adventure, a new perspective, and a memory to look back on. We celebrate these rewards through this exhibit. Given the prominence that the road has in literature and song, each image has the title of a book, a song, or a passage.
“The road is long, with many winding turns, that leads us to who knows where, who knows where.” — The Hollies For more information about the two exhibits visit viewpointphotoartcenter.org or call (916) 441-2341.
Courtesy photo
“Trotsky’s Dream,” 2010. Blown-glass, mixed-media wall installation with resin castings by Einar and Jamex de la Torre (born Guadalajara, Mexico, 1963 and 1960, respectively). Crocker Art Museum, gift of Anna B. Francis
“Shake, Rattle, and Roll” by Mark “Geo” Thomas
“Mohammad’s Haircut” by Adam Perez
“Paved Paradise” by John Romie
Stuart Continued from B1 a challenge in Margolo.
“I guess the voice was a bit hard to find,” Holmes said adding that she had found it and she is ready for opening night.
Holmes said that she keeps coming back to theater because she likes the community that it creates.
Zoie LaFramboise, 13, who plays Stuart has been in a couple previous roles at Imagination Theater.
“I just love acting,” she said. “I really enjoy the community here, and how it makes me feel.” LaFramboise said that Stuart is silly and adventurous.
“I would say that I am the same way,” she said. She prefers acting over singing and dancing although she said she likes it all. LaFramboise hopes to continue acting in the future.
Zoey Baxter, 11, also plays Stuart (the show is double cast). This is Baxter’s first theatrical experience, but she has plans to return to the stage
as much as possible.
“I love it,” said Baxter. “I’ve never been in a show before, I found my calling.”
She said she loves the support and camaraderie of the theater community.
“You’re not shamed for messing up,” Baxter added. “I just love being at the theater.”
“It is an absolute joy and honor to work with such a vibrant and talented group of young artists,” Kaldunski said. “This production has truly been a celebration of creativity, imagination, and community spirit.”
On Saturday, Feb. 1 the Placerville Friends of the Library hosted an exclusive preview of selected scenes from “Stuart Little, the Musical” for a free event in the children’s section of the Placerville branch of the El Dorado County Library. During the event copies of the novel by E.B. White and tickets to the full production were raffled off to lucky attendees.
“Stuart Little: the Musical” opens Friday, Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. and runs Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through March 2. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene Snowbell (Marilyn Judge) and Stuart Little (Zoey Baxter) work out being “Natural Enemies.”
