Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, February 19, 2025 by mcnaughtonmedia

Not business as usual at EDHCSD

Planning and Building fees get another overhaul

Jo Carrerow Mountain Democrat correspondent

Some fees were raised, others lowered and some added to a proposed Planning and Building Department Ordinance Fee Schedule during last week’s El Dorado County Board of Supervisors meeting.

With very few comments from the board and none from the public, supervisors unanimously approved amending the fee schedule, with ﬁnal passage to be voted on at the board’s Feb. 25 meeting. An updated Cemeteries Division Fee Schedule was continued to the Feb. 25 meeting as well.

The changes to the Planning and Building Department Ordinance Fee Schedule were designed to clean up, clarify and add fees collected by the

department, according to the sta report.

“Some fees were overlooked, or not working,” explained Jennifer Morris, senior administrative analyst with Planning and Building.

Proposed changes and modiﬁcations in the Building Division include manufactured homes permits. Sta time and permit types were evaluated, and the hours worked “weren’t reﬂected as to what sta was actually putting in,” said Morris.

Under Permanent Manufactured Homes – Plan Check, the current fee is $575, and the proposed fee is 0.00975 x value with a minimum of $144, with a variable net change. Other changes include: Temporary Commercial Modular on Construction Site – Plan Check, current fee $287, proposed fee, $575; Temporary Manufactured Homes for Residential Use Application – Plan Check, current fee $144, proposed fee $575; Temporary Manufactured Homes or Commercial Modular Inspection, current fee $718, proposed fee $431; and Permanent Manufactured Homes – Inspection, stayed the same at $431. Victims of the Caldor Fire can apply for a fee waiver, according to Morris.

■ Meeting shuts down

Noel Stack Editor

The El Dorado Hills Community Services Board of Directors meeting ended before it began on Feb. 13. Board President Stephen Ferry refused to open the meeting at 5:30 p.m., announcing to the crowd at the Norm Rowett Pavilion, “We’re not going to start this meeting until the unelected person sitting up here at the dais leaves. Thank you.” Ferry was referring to Director Chuck King, whose status as an active board member is being questioned after he submitted a letter announcing

his resignation last month only to rescind that resignation two days later.

“I am not leaving, so it’s up to him to decide what he wants to do,” King responded to Ferry Thursday evening. “I am a member in good standing, and no action … has been taken against me.” King had previously shared that a family crisis, health issues and ongoing board disputes prompted his resignation but after personal matters were addressed, he realized he wanted to remain on the board.

“Most importantly, I did not submit my resignation to the clerk of the board, as is required — reference

El Dorado Hills Community Services District staff and board members listen to comments at the meeting that wasn’t on

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

Polaroid camera as their mom Alexandra

Viola Victoria O’Donnell

Aug. 16, 1926 – Jan. 23, 2025

John Anderson “Andy” Buhman

July 16, 1931 – Feb. 2, 2025

John Anderson Buhman, a ectionately known as “Andy” to his friends and family, passed away at home on February 2, 2025, at the age of 93. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Andy touched many lives with his kindness, wisdom and gentle spirit. Born and raised in Seminole, Texas, to John and Catherine Buhman, Andy was one of five children and the last surviving sibling. In 1951, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving as a Petty o cer, Second-Class Sonarman aboard the USS Shoveler and USS Hubbard. After his military service, Andy married Alyce Nordstrom on December 7, 1956. They began their life together in Seminole, Texas, before moving to California, with their young son. Andy worked as an appliance repairman in Pomona, California, before joining Pacific Bell Phone Company in 1965. His career with the company took the family to Baker, Riverside, and Penn Valley before settling in Placerville in 1972. He later worked at AT&T’s Sacramento o ce until his retirement in 1987 at the age of 56. Andy and Alyce enjoyed their retirement years in Eagle River, Michigan, and Victor, Montana, before returning to Placerville in 2012. A lifelong learner and natural craftsman, Andy mastered various hobbies, including metalwork, carpentry, and furniture making, He had a passion for baking, making jams and wine from his own berries. He loved tinkering on projects. Most recently, he was learning the art of knife-making alongside his grandson, John. He relished deep conversations, especially with his grandsons, on scientific and technical topics, always eager to expand his knowledge. He often said that learning was how he kept his mind sharp at 93. Above all, Andy cherished his family. He was very involved in his family’s lives no matter where he lived. He relished having the grandchildren at his home in Montana and Michigan to create lifelong memories. Beyond boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking and sightseeing, Andy took every opportunity to teach his grandkids practical life skills. Whether it was electrical work, welding, woodworking, yard maintenance, or gardening, he believed in passing down knowledge that would serve them throughout their lives. His patient guidance and hands-on lessons became cherished moments, leaving an imprint in their abilities, confidence and independence. Recently Andy enjoyed winetasting excursions with his grandchildren. Sharing lively discussions and laughter. Andy was preceded in death by his wife, Alyce, in 2013. He is survived by his son, Terry Buhman (wife Kari); grandsons John Buhman (wife Lisa), Matt Buhman (wife Tammy), William Buhman (wife Marilyn), and Michael Buhman (wife Cameron); and great-granddaughters Kaitlyn, Isabel, Emmalyn, and Grace. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his giving love, adventurous spirit, and the lasting imprint he left on the hearts of those who knew him. A celebration of life will be held February 24th @ 1pm at a residence on El Caminito Rd in Shingle Springs. We welcome friends and family. Andy’s internment will be beside his wife at Westwood Cemetery. For more service details, please email us at karibuhman@gmail.com

Carl Forrest Reppert

Oct. 28, 1938 – Jan. 22, 2025

Carl Forrest Reppert 86 of Cameron Park is survived by his wife Ellen, children Amy Casner, Robert and Carl Jr Reppert. Memorial services were held at the Placerville Elks Lodge, 3821 Quest Ct., Shingle Springs, February 15 at 11 A.M.

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Viola Victoria O’Donnell, a ectionately known as Vi or Grams, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, at the age of 98. Born on August 16, 1926, in Sandy, Oregon, Viola was the youngest of nine children of Fred and Eleanor Dobberfuhl. She graduated from Silverton High School and went on to become a talented beautician. She later married the love of her life, Herb O’Donnell, with whom she shared many wonderful years before his passing in 1993. Viola and Herb were the principals of Elk Grove Modular, Inc., developing projects in Elk Grove and Old Town Sacramento, as well as Hidden Springs Mobile Villa in Placerville, where they made their home from 1974 until Viola’s passing. A woman of grace, kindness, and impeccable style, Viola was a life member of the Shakespeare Club and the Newcomers Club. She had a passion for organizing and participating in fashion shows for both the Shakespeare Club and Cold Springs Golf and Country Club, where she and Herb were members for over forty years. She loved golﬁng, traveling, going to church, and spending time with her family, always bringing warmth, laughter, and an open heart to those around her. Viola’s memory lives on through her sons, Je and Tim O’Donnell, along with multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her love and wisdom. Viola will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and friend — always ready for a good time, a heartfelt conversation, or a well-dressed entrance. Her spirit of joy, elegance, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 23, at 1:00 PM at First Lutheran Church in Placerville to honor and celebrate her incredible life.

JoAn Rae Lochow Stokes

Feb. 27, 1934 – Jan. 19, 2025

JoAn Rae Lochow Stokes passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025, at age 90 in El Dorado Hills, California. She is survived by her three children with their spouses and children: Patty Stokes and Sam and Leo Debatin (Athens, Ohio); Steve and Sue Stokes, plus Sue’s children Ian, Eric, and Christine (El Dorado Hills); and Bethany, Ted, Ryan, and Ally Hendricks (El Dorado Hills). JoAn was born near Courtenay, ND on February 27, 1934. She taught English and business for 20 years and moved with her family to Placerville in 1979, where she served as secretary at Federated Church. Both her students and co-worshippers at Federated remember her with great fondness. JoAn was a gifted singer who loved to harmonize, especially barbershop; baker of world-class caramel rolls; author of hilarious poems; and the best mother anyone could want.

Glenda Irene Pitts

Dec. 10, 1936 – Jan. 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Glenda Irene Pitts of Placerville, California, on January 30, 2025, at the age of 88. Glenda was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, whose warmth, generosity, kindness and love for Jesus left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Born in Kinta, Oklahoma, Glenda developed a lifelong appreciation for family, Jesus and community. She was a dedicated and compassionate individual who found joy in helping others, whether it was through her work, her volunteer e orts, or the everyday kindness she showed to friends, family and neighbors alike. Glenda was a faithful follower of Jesus and she wanted everyone to know Him! She was a member of Placer Heights Baptist Church, where she joined in 1990! Glenda was a devoted mother to her children and a cherished grandmother and great grandmother, always ready with a word of encouragement or a quiet moment of wisdom. She loved to spend time with her family, sharing stories, laughter, and her love of the Bible, cooking and singing. Her home was a gathering place for all who sought comfort, and her spirit of hospitality and love will never be forgotten. She will be remembered for her strength, her ability to listen with empathy, and her unwavering devotion to Jesus and those she loved. Glenda is survived by her children, Bobbi Akers and Jim Pitts, her grandchildren, Daniel Akers, Elizabeth Earwicker, Megan Willsey, and Seirra Ravera, her great grandchildren, Denver Akers, Carter Earwicker, Cain Earwicker, and Charlie Ravera and a soon to be great-great grandchild, her sister, Lola Bess and family of Atlanta Georgia. She is also mourned by many dear friends and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, J.B. Pitts, and her parents, Alice SkrimagerThorne and Troy Skrimager and grandchildren, Patrick James Akers and Christian James Pitts. A celebration of Glenda’s life was held at Placer Heights Church on Thursday February 13th. In lieu of ﬂowers the family has requested donations be made to Snowline Hospice, 6520 Pleasant Valley Road, Diamond Springs CA 95619

Patricia Ann Stinnett (Nicholas)

June 6, 1939 – Nov. 27, 2024

A memorial service is planned for Friday, February 21 at 2 pm at Federated Church in Placerville. In lieu of ﬂowers, donations are requested for Snowline Hospice https://formrenderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/snowlinehospice-of-el-dorado/donation-form

Diana Lynn Stau er April 20, 1946 – Feb. 4, 2025

Diana Lynn Stau er, 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.

Patricia Ann Stinnett, age 85, of Placerville, passed away of lung cancer at home with her daughter by her side on November 27, 2024. Patricia was born in Compton, California on June 6, 1939, to parents, Ernest and Aresta Craine Nicholas. When Pat was 10 years old her mother formed a gospel trio with herself, and her daughters. They were known as the Nicholas Sisters. They sang on the radio, toured many churches and cut several Christian records. Patricia had a beautiful country singing voice and used her musical talents to bless many churches during her life time. She also played piano, guitar and electric slide guitar. Patricia was married to Fred Lee Stinnett from 1958 until he passed in 1992. Pat and Fred owned several businesses including pest control companies, a ﬂoral business and water well drilling companies. She owned Water Tech Well Drilling Company from the late 1970’s through 2016. Her son, Freddie James Stinnett, was co-owner and operator from 1993-2016. He passed away in 2018. Water Tech was a well respected business in the Placerville area. Patricia was a keen business-woman and did all the administrative roles their businesses required. She was a self-taught, hardworking, and determined woman. Pat was a member of Solid Rock Faith Center, and prior to that, Feed My Sheep Church. She had participated in various ministries in the church: Music, food, community outreach, cleaning, prison ministry, VBS, children’s Sunday school, and had been church pianist for many years. Pat accepted Christ as a child and truly loved the Lord. Her happiest times in life was when she was involved in her church. She was wonderful cook, creative macrame weaver, and also a licensed hair stylist. Pat loved all animals and birds and had volunteered with the Sierra Wildlife Rescue group in Placerville. At one time she raised 2 baby orphaned owls and released them to the wild. Patricia was predeceased by her husband, son, parents and sister, Delores. She is survived by her loving daughter, Debra Ann Stinnett and several nieces and nephews, including Pamela Munshower, Bobby Stinnett and other relatives in California, Arkansas and Michigan. Her Celebration of Life will be held at Solid Rock Faith Center, 6205 Enterprise Drive, #H, Diamond Springs, CA 95619, on Saturday February 22, 2025, at 11 am. All friends and family are welcome to attend. Lunch will be provided following the service.

Robert Edward Budris

July 10, 1947 – Jan. 8, 2025

Robert Edward Budris, age 77, passed away at home on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Devoted husband and best friend to his wife of 56 years, Donna Budris. Beloved father to five children, Robert, Christopher, Tricia, Michael, and Nicholas. Grandfather to 13 grandchildren, and Great-Grandfather to one great grandchild. Born in Massachusetts, moved around and finally ended up back in Boston for college, where he attended Bentley College, the same alma mater that his father attended. It is here where he would meet the love of his life, Donna. After marrying, they settled in Peoria, Illinois, where he took a job with Caterpillar Tractor which eventually brought him to Northern California, where they would decide to remain in Pleasanton, for 41 years. Always a hard worker, Bob finally retired at the age of 70, moving to Placerville, CA, our cabin in the woods. Bob was the heart and soul of our family. He will be truly missed. Heaven has a new angel, always in our hearts.

James Randy Langley

July 28, 1958 – Dec. 5, 2024

James Randy Langley, a devoted grandfather, father, brother, and son, passed away on December 5, 2024, in Castle Rock, Colorado, at the age of 66. Randy was born on July 28, 1958 in Hawthorne, California and grew up in Placerville, California. Randy attended Ponderosa High School graduating in 1975. He had a deep love of the outdoors, ﬁnding peace and joy in nature. He especially enjoyed hunting, ﬁshing, and skiing. Randy also had a deep love of music. Above all, his family was the center of his world. He is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Brittany Clavette and Tessa Wagener; his grandchildren, Sophia Clavette, Blakey Daw, Jackson Clavette, and Weston Wagener; his brothers Michael Langley and Russell Langley; and his sister, Kathleen Langley. Randy was predeceased by his daughter Shayla Daw, his brother Robert Langley, and his parents Jim and Wanda Langley. A memorial service to celebrate Randy’s life will be held on February 22, 2025 at the Church of the Nazarene 6040 Motherlode Drive, Placerville, California.

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GOING WITH THE FLOW

not much precipitation is predicted.

Man guilty of sex trafficking gets 16

El Dorado County District Attorney’s Oﬃce News release

Joshua Caleb Black was sentenced on Feb. 14 to 16 years in state prison after pleading guilty to human tra cking of a minor and possession of child pornography, the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce has announced.

Black has a prior strike conviction for negligent discharge of a ﬁrearm with a gang enhancement out of San Joaquin County.

In December 2023, after recently being paroled from prison, the Black traveled from the Bay Area to El Dorado County to pick up a minor from a local group home. Black intended to bring

the minor back to the Bay Area where he would then be her pimp, DA o cials noted. After Black picked up the child, law enforcement immediately apprehended him and was able to rescue the child before she could be violated further.

This case was prosecuted by Deputy DA Kassie Cardullo and was investigated by El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce Detective Gregg Clark.

“Let this serve as a reminder that the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce is committed to continuous e orts to combat human tra cking and protect vulnerable individuals,” notes a DA’s O ce social media post. “If you choose to commit these o enses here, be prepared to face prosecution.”

A ruff training opportunity

Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit firefighters showed some love to Guide Dogs for the Blind’s pups in training on Valentine’s Day. Dogs and their handlers visited Cameron Park’s Station 89, where first responders helped the puppies build confidence in new environments by walking on metal stairs at the training tower, experiencing fire engine lights and sirens and meeting a firefighter in personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus. This training helps them stay calm and focused if their future handler ever faces an emergency requiring a fire department response.

Instead of jumping right back into your busy routine following a wisdom tooth extraction, take some time off and pamper yourself. Your deserve it! You can always count on us to provide you with ideas for home care, answers to your questions, and excellence in dental care from a caring staff committed to your comfort, well-being, and sunny smile. Call us for an appointment. Emergencies are also welcome at our full-service, stateof-the-art dental office.

P.S. Following a tooth extraction, do not consume liquids through a straw, because the suction can dislodge the clot forming over the extraction site, slowing healing and increasing risk of infection.

and speed healing.

the Feb. 12 Mountain Democrat photo captions for the article “El Dorado County crowns Poetry Out Loud champion” contained some errors when

School.

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

Hangtown Creek roars through downtown Placerville alongside Highway 50 on Thursday, Feb. 13, after a storm brought

several inches of rain to El Dorado County. More rain could come through the region today and tomorrow, though

Photo courtesy of Cal Fire AEU

California Government Code, Section 1750(f) — for the resignation to be o cial,” King explained in an email to the Mountain Democrat.

“My status as a director in good standing has been conﬁrmed by EDHCSD general counsel.”

At a special meeting on Feb. 5, King did leave the premises after being told he was no longer a valid board member, according to minutes included in the Feb. 13 agenda packet. He was also absent at the Feb. 12 special meeting.

On Feb. 6 counsel Derek Cole reiterated his earlier opinion that he “did not believe Mr. King had resigned in the exact manner required by law” and noted the other four directors needed to provide direction to sta on whether they will recognize King as a director. Cole also maintained that Ferry “has acted well beyond his authority” by having King’s photo removed from the pavilion, taken his name o CSD letterhead, cut o King’s District email, directed press releases and communicated the purported resignation to the El Dorado County Elections O ce.

An item on the Feb. 13 agenda asked directors to provide direction on the proposal to remove Ferry as board president. Ferry later told the Mountain Democrat he rejected the agenda when it was sent to him “and even tried to modify the agenda (in writing) with no response at all.” Ferry cited policy on Feb. 13 that states

he does, as board president, have the right to individually act on behalf of the board.

“Duties include, but are not limited to, approving agendas, signing checks, minutes, ordinances and resolutions,” he read. “Notice, ‘duties include,’ but are not limited to.”

Hoping to move Thursday’s meeting forward, Cole shared his legal opinion based on precedent that all ﬁve board members could continue with the meeting and if later it’s determined King did not have a right to hold his seat, it wouldn’t invalidate any board action “because there was a good faith basis to believe at the time they took those actions, that those actions were valid.”

“Mr. King has a debatable, at a minimum claim, to be a member of this board. That is uncertain because of the manner in which he gave an email regarding his resignation,” Cole said. “I believe there is a substantial legal question whether that is, in fact, a resignation. Nobody has to agree that it is. Nobody has to agree that it wasn’t. The point that I have brought to your attention, as your legal counsel, is that there’s an issue and there is one person in this county who could resolve that, and that person sits in a courtroom in Placerville. So until … such time as that remedy or right is brought to the attention of a judge in the superior court, there is no certainty on this matter.”

Ferry made no motion to open the meeting after Cole spoke, prompting Cole

WHAT’S NEXT?

• The EDHCSD Board of Directors regular meeting has been rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 27. Closed session is set to begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by open session at 6:30 p.m. The new agenda will be posted on edhcsd.org.

• The district is expected to post a notice of vacancy on the board of directors. Applications for the open seat will be accepted and the board plans to appoint a new director, according to board President Stephen Ferry.

to suggest everyone — board members and the public — leave.

“I think this is really disappointing for this board and this organization to devolve to this,” Director Noelle Mattock commented.

“We have important public business to do.”

Shouts from the crowd interrupted Mattock’s comments. Mattock, King and Director Mike Martinelli then began to gather their things. King left his seat and had a back and forth with audience members.

“What it really comes down to is you have a serious issue right there,” King told the very vocal crowd, gesturing in Ferry’s direction.

“Then tell us what it is,” countered Director Heidi Hannaman.

After more public debate about King’s status and accusations

levied at Cole regarding his legal opinion of that status, Cole said as agency counsel he had to make a determination. “I have a member or a purported member who resigned and then unresigned. And I have to make a determination. Is that, do I have a fourmember body or a ﬁvemember body?”

But Hannaman argued that no one sought Cole’s counsel after King initially resigned. “What happens is, if someone resigns, there’s no legal counsel to seek,” she argued. “It’s done. You can’t unring the bell.”

“He is asserting a right to his seat and I have to give you the advice on how to handle that,” Cole countered.

want and I will gladly walk away. But that isn’t going to hide your problems and there’s a lot of them and they’re coming out.”

Frustrated by the lack of order, Mattock commended, “It’s mayhem, and people can continue to talk over people and members of the public can tell me to shut up and sit down. That is not good public decorum and that is not how we should be acting.”

King returned to his seat between President Ferry and Director Hannaman as Mattock urged the board to follow protocol as it had done when a previous director resigned. “But when the president is refusing the board to even take any action in order to move forward, the organization is stymied; the community is stymied,” she said.

Cole asked the board to give direction to sta at a publicly noticed meeting on the topic of King’s status. But Hannaman asserted King already made his decision and said it’s unfortunate he’s had a change of heart.

“I’m sorry that this is happening. But why are you doing this to us?” Hannaman asked. “Why are you doing this to the community? I mean, please, do you really want to be here on a technicality?”

you to please continue this meeting,” she said. “We can work this out but our team cannot go through this anymore. I am concerned. We have more people that may be leaving this district who are serving our public. “... we need you as a board to come together,” she continued. “And it doesn’t mean you have to agree. It means that you need to agree that we have the top ﬁve or six issues and we need to start to address those.” Interrupted by a speaker who hurled a personal attack and had several turns at the podium Thursday, McGann Jantzen instructed EHDCSD sta to go home.

“This has devolved into something that is inappropriate and unprofessional,” she said. “I appreciate all of you and thank you for your service to this community. I am so, so sorry.”

“What I’ve told you is the way to handle that is for your board, as a collective group, to make a decision. Tell him he can stay or tell him he can go, and make that decision in front of everybody, and stop putting me and sta in the position where we have to decide.”

Further arguments about board policy related to resignations and the authority of the board president led to President Ferry reading aloud some policy and o ering King a legal solution.

“Mr. King, it would do this community a huge favor, a huge favor — because you’re a huge guy — for you to just say, ‘I’m going to court. Go to court, go get it done. We don’t mind that, but … this guy (gesturing at himself) is not putting you back on this board.”

“You haven’t taken me o this board,” King maintained.

“You did that on your own,” Ferry retorted.

“I am on the board until you get a judge’s order saying so or until this board votes me o . I’ll take either one,” King announced. “You give me … whichever one you

“I’m here because 15,000 people elected me to be here, or close to it,” King answered. “I’m here because this place sorely needs integrity and accountability and transparency. And these people sitting out here applauding right now have no idea what’s going on in this place.

Two months ago I had no idea. But I’m telling you right now, this place is a crap storm.”

He noted the two prominent resignations this month with both the general manager and Human Resources manager departing the CSD.

King called his resignation email “a weak moment” but guaranteed he’s not weak anymore and conﬁrmed he has retained outside legal counsel.

Hoping to get some business completed — items on the agenda included discussions and ﬁnancing for the second parcel of the golf course and a presentation on local measures that repealed landscaping and lighting district assessments — Assistant GM Stephanie McGann Jantzen acknowledged the district is going through an incredibly challenging time.

“I am sorry that all of you are going through this, but I am begging

Weddings Continued from A1

tie the knot every year, according to Horne, who added special dates also keep her and her sta busy. She’s expecting another full day for “I dos” on 5/5/2025.

Horne’s entire sta is deputized to o ciate and she said anyone can be licensed for the day for a fee of $50.

Couples need to make an appointment in advance and can choose to get married anywhere on the Placerville property, including under the stately oaks in front of the center.

A wedding room is located near the clerk’s o ce and it is decorated according to the season. It currently has a winter theme with small artiﬁcial trees, sparkling lights and sta added a few Valentine’s Day heart balloons just for the day. The ceremony costs $40 and a public marriage license is $80. A conﬁdential license is also available for $85 but Horne said she doesn’t recommend

“Hopefully, we can get back to the business of the district soon,” Mattock added as Martinelli and King left their seats. Mattock soon followed while Hannaman and Ferry stayed. At 6:30 p.m., when open session should have started, the sizable crowd in attendance began to ﬁlter out with Ferry being the only board member remaining in the room. McGann Jantzen told the Mountain Democrat the day after the meeting she was working with sta on options that hopefully o er the board a path forward. The same day King was removed from the EDHCSD Meet Your Board of Directors webpage.

Chuck King said of Thursday’s events, responding to a request for comment from the Mountain Democrat: “I have told whomever will listen that I will walk away as a director if the board convenes and determines my letter is an o cial resignation. (The) CSD has work to do and while I very much want to be a part of that, I have to get the public to wake up and pay attention and make (Ferry) answer the question: Why, if he endorsed me, voted for me, made me his VP, and has not accused me of misconduct, is he so desperate to get rid of me? Why not let the board meet and determine my fate? Why not ﬁle for a quo warranto and get a judgement?” Watch the recorded portion of the Feb. 13 meeting online at eldoradohillscsd. org/about/board_of_ directors and select the Board of Directors Meetings – Agenda Packets link.

getting a conﬁdential license as it can wreak havoc for a family member later on who tries to get a copy of the license after one or both parties are deceased.

Couples are encouraged to provide a witness for the proceeding but if none is available a county sta member will step in for a minimal charge of $5, which is mainly for time away from their other duties.

Horne said some brides arrive with a full set of bridesmaids and, she noted, marriage is the only event during which a person can get a name change besides petitioning the court. Currently there are no translators for non-English speaking persons and couples are asked to bring their own.

Newlyweds aren’t the only people who feel the love on Valentine’s Day.

Horne said she treats her sta to a pizza party with heart-shaped pizzas, adding, “not on the county’s dime.”

CHUCK KING STEPHEN FERRY

Marshall Foundation celebrates grand opening of new office

Shelly Thorene Staff writer

It was standing room only at the Marshall Foundation for Community Health’s grand opening at Marshall’s Cameron Park campus Feb. 13. Visitors were greeted at the door with dark chocolate bars and to a table filled with delicious and healthy snacks along with sparkling wine and other beverages.

Marshall Foundation board and Marshall Hospital staff members, major donors and community members were on hand to celebrate the new center where one could gather information about the many services offered at the various medical centers, including the Marshall Cancer Resource Center, the Cardiac Department and the Community Care Network which offers services to the underserved and unhoused population in the area.

The new office is located at what was once the Marshall Community Library at 3581 Palmer Drive, Suite 101.

Philanthropy Operations

Coordinator Tanya Moran

Fees Continued from A1

said moving the fundraising arm in together with marketing made sense as the community health library was rarely used. Moran mentioned

Renewal permits will now be divided into renewal and reactivation permits (when a new permit number is required). Pool credits will now be given for both categories. On the pool construction stages of completion chart, new stages were added. Current renewal permit fees were either not based on valuation ($144) or based on valuation: Original valuation x .005 x % remaining work, or $144, whichever is greater. The proposed renewal permit fees read: Credited valuation x .005, or $144, whichever is greater. Proposed reactivation permit fees read: Credited valuation x .0130, or $144, whichever is greater. In addition, Road Encroachment Fee applications went from the current fee, $72, to the proposed fee

of $144.

a few of the many service lines receiving funds from the foundation, which include a lap swim program at the pool on Bedford Avenue open to

“The application fee needs to be adjusted to the minimum $144 hourly fee,” the proposed schedule notes.

In the Planning Division, Development Agreements Annual Reporting Fees were lowered from the established fee, $1,000 for time and materials, to a $500 fixed fee.

Environmental impact report preparation will now require a 20% deposit that “will remain on deposit until final county action and payment of any and all final Planning Division invoices associated with the preparation of the Project EIR,” the schedule reads. A Minor Use Permit project category was added, with “time and materials” as the proposed fee. Under Stormwater Quality,

senior citizens at a reduced rate; SAFE-D of El Dorado County Inc., which supplies equipment such as grab bars to prevent falls; and the

Planning Division projects, minor project plan reviews were reduced from $190 to $95 and project CEQA review rose from $95 to $190.

Similarly, under Permits for Building Division, permit plan review of small projects went from $190 to $95, and Department of Transportation projects plan reviews and field inspection fees will be determined by time and materials. A Permit Plan Revision/Correction fee was added for $48.

In the Vacation Home Rental Ordinance 5209, a Hosted Rental Sign fee ($20.83) and Host Home Rental Permit application fee ($380) were added. Vacation Home Rental Permit application fees stayed at $760, as did the hourly rate, $190.

Community Care Network, which offers a variety of services to seniors and the underserved population.

Founded in 1974, the foundation’s mission is to support Marshall Hospital and other community health programs serving the population of El Dorado County’s western slope. Its mission and purpose, according to the website, reads, “(The) foundation encourages, receives, administers and disburses donated funds for community health programs and Marshall. Charitable donations and bequests provide support to the hospital and facilities, as well as community projects that improve and meet local healthcare needs.”

In 2023 the Marshall Foundation provided grants totaling $1,103,073 to Marshall programs and other nonprofits on the western slope. Among these was a $20,000 grant for nine nursing students. Grants were awarded for more education for pharmacy employees and

District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine asked Morris to explain the justification for the difference between the Host Home and Vacation Home rentals permit fees since she thought the inspections would take about the same amount of time.

“What causes it to drop in half?” Laine asked. “There must be something wrong there.”

El Dorado County Director of Planning and Building Karen Garner said since “hosting” is a new category, “This way we know we’re not overcharging. If anything we may be undercharging.”

All five supervisors: Laine, George Turnboo, Lori Parlin, Greg Ferrero and Brian Veerkamp were in attendance.

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

Collette Thiel, president of the Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce, left, and Marshall Hospital

Executive Director of Philanthropy Mindy Danovaro, center, present a proclamation issued by Sen. Marie AlvaradoGil (not present) to Marshall Hospital CEO Siri Nelson, right, at the grand opening of the Marshall Foundation for Community Health’s new office located at 3581 Palmer Drive, Suite 101, in Cameron Park on Feb. 13.

OPINION

A Word About Water

El Dorado County water: past, present and future

Many of you are familiar with El Dorado County’s rich history, starting with its ﬁrst settlements long ago by Native Americans, remaining undiscovered by Europeans until the 1770s. Our county is also known for the start of the Gold Rush in 1848. It was at this time when the foundations of the water systems we know today were laid.

Even today, some water suppliers rely on portions of those historical systems to deliver their water to their customers. Yet, the county today looks very di erent from the 1800s. Today, residents and businesses in El Dorado County get their water from either one of the four urban water suppliers, the over 100 small water systems or the thousands of domestic wells.

As one can guess, that makes managing our water resources challenging, to say the least. Local water suppliers, municipalities and others were unable to economically develop an adequate water supply and control ﬂooding in our county on their own. So, it was determined that a countywide perspective and response was needed. That’s why in 1959, state legislators created the El Dorado Water Agency to address water-related challenges throughout the county. For 65 years and counting, El Dorado Water Agency has remained committed to providing longterm water resources planning. What exactly does “water resources planning” mean? This means not only looking at water supply but also watershed health, stormwater management and more.

Our work falls into ﬁve programs:

Governance and partnership: We develop partnerships with government agencies, water managers, nonproﬁt organizations and others to help break down silos and increase collaboration.

Water connects us all and we need to coordinate with those both inside and outside the county to address growing water demands, adhere to new regulations and adapt to our variable weather.

Water security: We focus on ensuring El Dorado County has a sustainable water supply as our region faces an uncertain water future. We also work to prepare our communities for when a drought hits and ensure residents and businesses have ample water.

Watershed management: We work to protect our watershed — that is, all the land in our county where rain and snow falls. We also coordinate with those responsible for maintaining our forests, rivers

The Balancing Act

Letters to the Editor

Too much power

EDITOR:

Ilove my country. I love that we live in a democracy, vote for folks to represent us and have laws that we follow, both at a local level and at a Congressional level. I have always believed that we have one of the best countries in the world.

So why does Elon Musk, elected to no o ce, all of the sudden have possession of the data about all of us? Why does he now have the ability to stop payments by the Department of the Treasury?

(That would include Social Security if he considers it wasteful.)

In the words of Timothy Snyder, author of “On Tyranny,” “We vote for representatives in Congress, who pass laws that determine how our tax money is spent. If Musk has the power to halt this process at the level of payment, he can make laws meaningless. Which means, in turn, that Congress is meaningless and our votes are meaningless.” I want my vote to have meaning. Let’s get back to our rule of law and to our representational government.

MARY ELLIOTT-KLEMM Somerset

Really?

EDITOR: My God! The Gulf of America! I didn’t think we could get that stupid, but here we are.

JOHN REAY

Not above the law

EDITOR:

In 1977, during an interview with broadcast journalist David Frost, Richard Nixon, replying to a question about the Huston Plan, which included illegal e orts to monitor anti-war and counterculture activists, states, “When the president does it, that means that it is not illegal.”

On Feb. 15, Donald Trump, in a post on X, wrote, “He who saves his country does not violate any law.”

Both these statements are tantamount to saying the president is above the law. I’m calling on Representative Tom McClintock, a self-professed staunch defender of the Constitution, to call out Mr. Trump’s assertion.

GEORGE LLOYD Placerville

The Super Bowl is over but one ad was a touchdown

Ever since the NFL went woke, I essentially stopped watching football. It’s a shame politics got involved in sports as it ruined sports for me.

Sports, however, are the last bastion for pure capitalism. The best product on the ﬁeld on any given day wins. And the product is made of the best participants money can buy. There are no rules requiring the players to be anything but the best they can be regardless of ethnicity, skin color, sex or whatever other di erences society can create to separate us into victims and winners. During this particular Super Bowl, the Philadelphia Eagles clearly outplayed their favored opponent, the Kansas City Chiefs, a blowout if

you will — kind of like the last presidential election. Donald Trump became the ﬁrst president to ever attend a Super Bowl. He was cheered by the crowd while Taylor Swift was booed.

The better team won that day because their players were in the right place at the right time.

Ads for the Super Bowl went for $8 million for a 30-second spot, up from a year ago when they sold for $7.5 million. Seeing so much local advertising, it looked like business was down. And if you thought that, you’re right. Overall ad revenue was less by 2%, meaning fewer highdollar ads. Maybe politics will get out of sports.

Super Bowl ads are thought of as entertaining as the game. Not so

this year. Too many were humorless and woke. Budweiser’s ad was boring. Perhaps the best ad for getting business was the Fetch ad (a company I never heard of) that o ered to 120 people who signed up $10,000 — a $12 million giveaway. It worked as it has been reported that Fetch had 1.2 million signups in two minutes.

In a lot of the Super Bowl ads, it was di cult to identify what they were selling. The only ad I remember was the Best Foods mayonnaise ad. But if you hadn’t seen the classic movie “When Harry Met Sally” (1989), you might not understand. The scene Best Foods chose to recreate probably has been seen by millions who never saw the movie as it is the iconic deli restaurant scene

(actually ﬁlmed at Katz’s Deli in New York, New York’s oldest deli) and it’s all over the internet.

In the movie scene, Meg Ryan (Sally) and Billy Crystal (Harry) are having deli sandwiches in Katz’s Deli and Ryan fakes an orgasm while eating her lunch to prove to Crystal that he cannot tell a fake. The punch line is at the end of the scene, a 60 or so year old woman sitting across from Ryan (played by Estelle Reiner, who is actually the mother of the movie’s director, Rob Reiner), tells the waitress when giving her order after seeing Ryan go through the fake orgasm, “I’ll have what she’s having.” What makes the Best Foods mayo Super Bowl ad so memorable is that

El Dorado

Sports, ... are the last bastion for pure capitalism. The best product on the eld on any given day wins.

LORI PARLIN

REBECCA GUO

LARRY WEITZMAN

Water Continued from A6 and lakes and help secure funding for projects that make our lands healthy. Assistance and innovation: Innovation is the key to addressing growing and evolving water resource-related challenges in the county. In addition to incorporating innovative ideas into water resources planning and management, we work to increase awareness about the importance of sustainable water management. We provide technical assistance for small water systems in the county and pursue grant funding for drought preparedness. Communication and advocacy: Each year we educate decision makers about the county’s waterrelated issues and advocate for funding to address our geographic vulnerabilities. El Dorado County’s rural and foothill landscape presents unique challenges and we promote creative solutions that

Weitzman

Continued from A6

they used Ryan and Crystal in the same deli to replay the scene in the ad. Instead of an argument between the two to create the reason for the fake orgasm, Ryan puts Best Food Mayo on her sandwich which is so good it causes the orgasm. A younger woman in the restaurant sitting nearby then utters the famous line to the waitress, “I’ll have what she’s having.”

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

will maintain our rural agricultural way of life. So what does the future hold? While we wish we had a crystal ball, we know our weather is becoming more unreliable. In less than ﬁve years, we went from record-breaking droughts to recordbreaking snow years. This unpredictability has had a serious e ect on our water resources and has the potential to overwhelm our county’s natural and built infrastructure. All of this could mean more water restrictions, localized ﬂooding or other issues. As we look toward the future, El Dorado Water Agency remains forward-thinking and committed to providing comprehensive countywide water resources planning. This planning is essential to serve our county’s diverse communities.

Lori Parlin is the District 4 El Dorado County supervisor and EDWA board chair and Rebecca Guo is general manager of the El Dorado Water Agency.

Who doesn’t love Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan? The ad was not woke or political. It was a clever recreation of an iconic movie scene to demonstrate how good Best Foods mayo is, and it worked. It was created in the Super Bowl tradition of clever ads — perhaps the best super bowl ad ever.

Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.

PPD CRIME LOG

The following information was taken from PPD reports:

Feb. 2

4:09 p.m. Petty theft reported at gas station on Forni Road. 4:30 p.m. Trespassing reported at grocery store on Placerville Drive. 8:32 p.m. Trespassing reported at grocery store on Placerville Drive.

9:40 p.m. Trespassing reported at gas station on Forni Road.

9:43 p.m. Battery reported at bar on Main Street.

Feb. 3

2:29 p.m. Trespassing reported at a gym on Broadway.

Feb. 4

12:25 p.m. Petty theft reported at a restaurant on Main Street.

Feb. 5

11:06 a.m. Vandalism reported at an apartment complex on Clay Street. 11:25 a.m. Battery reported at the library on Fair Lane. 12:12 p.m. Battery reported at nursing home on Marshall Way.

Feb. 6

3:50 p.m.

6:12

Feb.

1:01

Feb. 8

7:38

8:47

was later released.

Announcements

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com

AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net

AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the rst Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org

CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS

CLUB meets the rst Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.

El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR

RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheri ’s o ce, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

PLAY CRIBBAGE

Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452. We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE

RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/

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

DON’T MISS

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

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

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am.

Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet rst and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.

SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started.

TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY

Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that a ect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.

California Tahoe Conservancy looks back at its 40th year

n Highlights from 2024 noted

Katelyn Welsh Tahoe Daily Tribune

LAKE TAHOE — The State of California established the California Tahoe Conservancy in 1984 with the mission to restore and enhance the natural and recreational resources of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

In the decades that followed, the agency did so by collaborating with federal, tribal, state and local partners to advance that goal. 2024 marked the 40th year of the agency’s efforts through those collaborations. CTC officials recently celebrated their accomplishments from this last year, as noted in the agency’s 2024 Annual Report.

Upper Truckee Marsh South Acquisition

March 2024 brought about the acquisition of 31 acres, including the former Motel 6 building, and was a major milestone for the conservancy and the Upper Truckee area. It fills a critical restoration gap between the conservancy’s 560-acre Upper Truckee Marsh property and the Tahoe Resource Conservation District’s 206acre Johnson Meadow property.

The acquisition places 96% of the Upper Truckee River into public ownership and provides valuable restoration opportunities for wetland habitat, as well as enhancements to recreation and access along the river. Restoration along this river corridor is important to the agency and its partners because the Upper Truckee drains nearly a third of the Lake Tahoe Basin, having important implications for Tahoe’s clarity.

The conservancy was supported by its numerous funding partners — the California Wildlife Conservation Board, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Tahoe Fund and League to Save Lake Tahoe.

The conservancy plans to remove removing the hotel and restaurant development in 2025, as well as engage the public in the site’s planning process.

Being a good neighbor

The conservancy has implemented

what it calls a Good Neighbor

Approach to fuels treatment on its properties by thinning overcrowded trees and brush on both conservancy and USDA Forest Service lots in certain neighborhoods.

The Conservancy Forestry Program along with partners and contractors have undertaken and continue to work on hundreds of open space lots in four major neighborhoods:

• North Upper Truckee neighborhood (El Dorado County)

• Gardner Mountain (South Lake Tahoe)

• Tahoe Island neighborhoods (South Lake Tahoe)

• Tahoe Hills (West shore)

The good neighbor strategy is intended to increase efficiency on projects that aim to reduce wildfire risk for neighbors, all while improving forest resilience.

Millions distributed in grants

The conservancy provided nearly $4 million in grants to programs, agencies and organizations in 2024 with various goals and impacts to the

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Tahoe region of California.

Certain projects target recreation and improving access. One such project is Placer County’s construction of the North Tahoe Shared-Use Trail Segment 1, which received $1.2 million from the conservancy. The Tahoe Resource Conservation District received $100,000 for a signage plan along the Upper Truckee River corridor.

Other granted projects aim to restore vital habitat, such as the Máyala Wáta (Meeks Meadow) restoration, which received $600,000. A quarter of a million dollars went to the Great Basin Institute to accelerate largelandscape forest restoration. The conservancy also awarded $792,125 to the National Forest Foundation to remove hazardous dead and dying trees damaged by the Caldor Fire.

Another $601,700 was awarded to North Tahoe Fire Protection District for wildfire risk reduction programs over the next three years in north and west shore communities and their surrounding forests. One example of these projects can be read about in the article titled, Carnelian Woods pile burn project highlights important partnerships and lessons.

Other grants were provided to stewardship and surveillance initiatives. This includes $150,000 to the Tahoe Resource Conservation

District for New Zealand Mudsnail surveillance and $81,000 to Tahoe City Public Utility District for an inventory of green house gas emissions in tandem with North Tahoe Public Utility District.

$220,000 helped fund the creation of a new Lake Tahoe Basin liaison position for the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California.

The conservancy has expressed commitment to the Washoe Tribe and has prioritized the Tribe in its new Strategic Plan and first Racial Equity Action Plan adopted in 2024.

The Racial Equity Action Plan seeks to tackle barriers and challenges to racial equity by first identifying and then addressing them.

The new 2024-29 Strategic Plan lays out the following five focus areas and goals:

• Access: Provide recreational opportunities and access for all

• Innovation: Drive forwardthinking solutions and accountability

• Protection: Safeguard the basin’s environmental, cultural, tribal and recreational attributes for future generations

• Restoration: Restore the basin’s social and ecological resilience

• Stewardship: Care for the basin’s natural, tribal and cultural resources

To learn more about the California Tahoe Conservancy visit tahoe. ca.gov.

ICU nurses and community education for fall prevention, CASA volunteer training and a Stop the Bleed program, which trains community members how to treat injuries caused by home accidents, motor vehicle accidents, active shooters, etc.

Recipients of the foundation’s community grants include a Health Care Academy at El Dorado High School, Mother Teresa Maternity Home, Hands4Hope, just to name a few. The foundation also funds the purchase of first aid gear for local law enforcement, C. diff testing kits as well as fall prevention equipment and supplies for low-income residents and seniors. In the same year, 689 donors gave gifts totaling $747,948. Marshall Foundation Executive Director of Philanthropy Mindy Danovaro pointed out that the artwork in the office space was all done by local artists and said the office was available to the community organizations to use as a meeting space. The foundation has supported local artists in the past by providing funding for wall murals in the

pediatric clinic.

“Our new location provides an improved space and an opportunity to amplify our long-standing philanthropic mission and impact,” Danovaro notes in a news release.

“With our warm and welcoming entrance, ample parking and our accommodating meeting room, we envision becoming a hub for the essential work and critical partnerships that help shape our community’s health and well-being.”

Marshall is an independent, nonprofit community healthcare provider located in the heart of the Sierra foothills. Marshall includes Marshall Hospital, a fully accredited acute care facility with 111 beds in Placerville; several outpatient facilities in Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Placerville, and Georgetown; and many community health and education programs. Marshall has over 220 licensed practitioners and over 1,400 employees providing healthcare services to more than 180,000 residents of El Dorado County.

Image courtesy of California Tahoe Conservancy

Highlights of 2024 California Tahoe Conservancy efforts included expanding the north shore shared-use trail network helps residents and visitors bike, walk and roll instead of using a car.

Washoe Environmental Protection Department staff speak to Conservancy employees during a field tour at Máyala Wáta (Meeks Meadow).

SPORTS ON TO MASTERS

Union Mine High School wrestlers joined other area schools at the CIF Sac-Joaquin Division 4 Championships on Saturday, Feb. 15, at Hiram Johnson High School. Five Diamondbacks move onto the Masters round in Stockton this weekend. Above, left to right, are: Corey Richardson, senior, 165, 5th place; Marty Snyder, junior, 144, 3rd place; Brock Buak, senior, 150, 1st place and three-time 1st place divisional champion; Lincoln Garel – Senior, 190, 1st place; and Dennis Warden, sophomore, 175, 3rd place. El Dorado High School wrestlers also placed well and qualified for the Masters event. Cougars moving on are: Gordon Girardin, 144, 1st; Isaac Gautschi, 157, 1st; Gavin Coit, 138, 2nd; Jackson Hatch, 165, 2nd; Dominic Vitale, 190, 3rd; Austin Girardin, 215, 5th; and Colton Iseger, 133, 6th.

Fresh Tracks snowshoe race returns, supporting breast cancer research

Katelyn Welsh Tahoe Daily Tribune

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — Fresh snow has arrived just in time for the Fresh Tracks 5K Snowshoe event, raising funds for metastatic breast cancer research. The Eric Nageotte memorial is an annual event pulling together the community to not only to raise funds, but to also have fun. The Tahoe Mountain Milers Running Club is hosting this year’s walk and race on Sunday, Feb. 23, at the Historic Camp Richardson Resort. It’s called a walk and race, offering unique handmade agegroup awards that are three deep for the competitive, but organizers say you don’t have to race — just have fun. They encourage anyone to participate, including first timers. “If

COMICS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

you can walk, you can snowshoe!”

The race benefits METAvivor, an organization that supports metastatic breast cancer research and awareness. This year’s race is in honor of club member, Rene Gorevin; local doctor, Kelly Shanahan; young local mom, Adrienne Shepard and other local Tahoe women. Early pre-registration ends Feb. 20 at $39.68, which includes event swag, snowshoe rental (if you need snowshoes), post-race refreshments and continued day use of groomed Camp Richardson trails. Register online at ultrasignup.com. Day of registration is $45. Registration will be at the Ice Cream Parlor, 8:30–9:50 a.m. The race starts at 10 a.m. A post-race celebration will follow.

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Give yourself some welldeserved grace as you reflect on interactions. See the nuances in what happened. Notice patterns, both in how others engage and how you respond. The awareness will be powerful.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You can admire and see people in a certain way, and that can bring you pleasure even if they don’t reciprocate. Reciprocation is nice to have, but not having it is OK, too, because it’s your way of seeing others that you’re really in love with.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The excellent relationship experiences have taught you, but the not so excellent ones have taught you more. You’ll be reminded of both lessons and would do well to apply them to your current situation.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Only you can determine what’s worth wanting for yourself, and with time, the answer may evolve in ways you never expected. Your desires are as dynamic as you are, shaped by growth, experience and the unfolding of life.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Among the most satisfying forms of justice, poetic justice ranks high. When life rhymes -whether literally or figuratively -- it feels like the universe is aligning, delivering outcomes meaningful and fitting, and with an unexpected twist of irony.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). There’s a fine line between danger and opportunity, with each holding the potential to shape the other. Today, that line is blurred, and the thrill lies in not knowing which is which, making this a time full

of exhilarating unpredictability.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Ambition can cloud your perspective, making you see what you want to be true rather than what actually is. But that vision is powerful. It’s the spark that drives you to turn what you dream into reality.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Bad manners come from the misinformed or poorly taught. Good manners are easily attained by those who ask the right questions and follow directions. You’ll navigate situations gracefully, gain what you need and build lasting bonds.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You crave quick

or comfortable space for you, and that’s not a flaw; it’s a reflection of your values and the kinds of relationships you cultivate, where harmony, mutual respect and kindness take precedence.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). The good things about you don’t

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

Courtesy photo

Snowshoers, beginners to pros, are invited to participate in the Fresh Tracks 5K Snowshoe event on Feb. 23.

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Feb. 20

Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom presents “Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising through ‘The Change’” Feb. 20-23. For more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Feb. 21

The Sierra Renaissance Society presents Fencing and Wildlife, a presentation by Kathleen Jermstad, 1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. Admission free for members; public invited to attend to attend two meetings for free. The Sierra Renaissance Society of El Dorado County is dedicated to lifelong learning and hosts presentations and workshops throughout the year. For more information visit srsedc. org.

The Stage at Burke Junction will host Homegrown Comedy from 8-10 p.m. For more information visit stageatburke.com/ homegrowncomedy.

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

Feb. 22

It's time to prepare the garden for the delicious vegetables you want to grow this year. Master Gardeners Zack Dowell & Patrick Daubert will discuss garden plant selection, planting times, site selection, soil preparation, proper seed planting techniques and pest management at the UCCE Master Gardeners Spring and Summer Vegetables class, 9 a.m. to noon at the Cameron Park Community Center, 2502 Country Club Drive. Register online at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=44193. Drop-ins welcome.

The historical Murer House and Gardens will host the annual Camellia Show and Competition, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1125 Joe Murer Court, Folsom. The entire event is free to the public. For more information contact Rhonda DesVoignes at bdesvoignes@ comcast.net or call the Murer House at (916) 413-9231.

The El Dorado County Historical Society and Save the Graves presents An Evening with 19th Century Placerville’s C.C. Peirce, 2 and 5 p.m., a bene t for the restoration of the historical M.E. Church. For tickets and more information visit edchs.org/fountaintallman-museum-1. Join the Shingle Springs Community Center for a Wild West Texas Hold 'Em Tournament fundraiser at 5 p.m. Bring your best poker face and help Shingle Springs Community Center raise funds for a much needed bathroom renovation and new ADA ramp. Admission includes dinner, dessert and initial buy in. For more information visit shinglespringscommunitycenter.org.

Ed Wilson will play at Boring Rose Brewing in El Dorado Hills from 6-8 p.m.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra Crackin' Crab for Kids' Sake takes place 6-10 p.m. at the Forni Building on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. For tickets and more information visit bbbsns.org/events.

■

Historical portrayal to transport audiences

News release

The El Dorado County Historical Society and Save the Graves present three performances of An Evening with Placerville’s C.C. Peirce, featuring local actor Dan Trainor. The show will be presented on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 23 at 5 p.m.

A gushing 1903 biography by Charles Upton characterized pioneer Placerville pastor C.C. Peirce thusly, “It is beyond the power of human speech to adequately portray the character of so Godlike a man as the Rev. Charles Caleb Peirce.”

Trainor accepts the challenge. He will portray the “Godlike,” Rev. Charles Caleb Peirce in the intimate setting of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

The M.E. Church was dedicated in 1861, which makes it the oldest church building in Placerville. These days it serves as a chapel and event space for the Federated Church.

Bugs and birds have taken their toll on the historical structure. It needs some critical maintenance to ensure it is around for future generations to enjoy.

The El Dorado County Historical Society is partnering with Federated Church and Save the Graves to help fund the requisite repairs.

Save the Graves co-founder Mike Roberts will provide an overview of Reverend Peirce’s life, then hand it o to Trainor, who also wrote the script. Save the Graves Artistic Director Kathleen Young is directing the performance. EDC Historical Society Public Programming and Events Chair, Sean Manwaring is producing the event.

After the performance, wine and refreshments will be served next door in Federated Church’s Price Hall. Manwaring will provide a brief history of the well-traveled M.E. Church.

Trainor has delivered powerful depictions of notable characters in local history at the October Save the Graves events each of the last three years. In 2022 he brought Main Street shoemaker Henry Numbers Tracy to life. He

adopted a thick Scottish brogue to become pioneer lumber patriarch John Blair in 2023. In 2024 his nuanced depiction of a conﬂicted Sheri James Anderson overseeing the last hangings in Placerville was unforgettable. Videos of those performances are available at savethegraveseldorado.org.

He now tackles a more complex character, the right Reverend C.C. Peirce, whose accomplishments — and eccentricities — are the stu of legend.

“I feel a kinship with him,” said Trainor. “He was unimpressed with material things, a real St. Francis character. My wife Sheryl and I attend Church of our Saviour, which was Peirce’s home church. His photo and personal e ects are on display in our co ee room, so I feel like I’m around him all the time.”

Another motivation was the opportunity to work with director Kathleen Young.

“She and I just click,” he said. Peirce was a man of letters, conversant in philosophy, history, law and literature, proﬁcient in Latin, Greek and Hebrew. Yet it was his compassion, not his education

and future.

Karen Shadle El Dorado Chapter–DAR

Placerville Mayor John Clerici recently spoke to the El Dorado Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution at the February meeting. He entertained the chapter members with fun facts and shared current issues for the city of Placerville.

Placerville was a gold discovery town that became a city in 1854. It is the 14th oldest city in the state. The city has a long, rich history and despite its nickname, “Hangtown,” only three people were ever hanged here — all on the same day.

Agriculture and timber have long been important to the city. The No. 1 industry now is health care (Marshall Hospital), Clerici noted. He described Placerville as a service community with a tourist element. Challenges facing the city today are aging infrastructure, lack of housing for workers who want to move here and homelessness.

Clerici noted that organizations like DAR are essential to the community and he would like to see more e orts to recognize historical events, besides the Gold Rush. The mayor answered many questions from the members, who enjoyed his informative talk.

The historical Murer House and Gardens will host the annual Camellia Show and Competition, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, at 1125 Joe Murer Court, Folsom.

Greg Gayton of Green Acres Nursery will be featured, speaking at 11 a.m. on growing tips. The entire event is free to the public.

Camellia Society of Sacramento members will be on hand to help identify varieties and answer questions. The public is invited to enter up tp ﬁve blooms and/or arrangements of camellias. Ribbons will be awarded for People’s Choice and other prize divisions. Entries will be accepted starting at 9:30 a.m. the day of the event.

A drawing for camellia plants will be held at 1:30 p.m. Free tours of Murer House and Gardens are also o ered throughout the day.

The Murer House and Gardens is across Folsom Boulevard near historical Sutter Street. The home was built by Guiseppe Murer of Italy, who purchased the site in 1921 and constructed the home in 1925.

For more information contact Rhonda DesVoignes at bdesvoignes@comcast.net or call the Murer House at (916) 413-9231.

A collection of Day Hiker columns can be seen the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays in the

Courtesy photos

Above, local actor Dain Trainor takes on the bigger than life role of the real life Reverend C.C. Peirce. Below, Peirce was a beloved Protestant Episcopal pastor who ministered in El Dorado County from 1861 until his death in 1903.

Betty Albert News release

Courtesy photo

DAR Regent Rebecca Parks and DAR Historian Lori Nalley join Placerville Mayor John Clerici and DAR member Sally Long Johns for a photo at the meeting where Clerici shared tales from Placerville’s history as well as plans for the present

Camellia show

■ See PEIRCE, page B2

GROW FOR IT!

Guide to rose pruning

Think your garden is too small for fruit trees? If there are six to eight hours of good sunlight, you can successfully grow a wide variety of fruit trees in a small garden. There is a method of training a plant, called espalier, which trains the plant to grow in a flat plane against a fence, wall, trellis, or free-standing frame.

The Romans are thought to be the first to use the flat plane technique of growing trees and its use spread throughout Europe. The French gave the technique the name espalier, which is a derivation of the French work epaule, meaning shoulder. Thomas Jefferson brought the practice to the United States and George Washington grew espaliered fruit trees at Mount Vernon. Some consider espaliers an artform, adding a beautiful element to a garden. But it is also a wonderful technique to grow fruit in a small garden.

Espaliered trees can be formal or informal. Apples and pears are particularly suited to being espaliered and you will often find pre-trained espaliered trees in nurseries, sometimes with three or six varieties on one tree. Citrus, peach, nectarine and plum can all be espaliered.

To start you’ll want to find a location in your garden that gets six to eight hours of sun. In the hot summers of El Dorado County using an east facing wall or fence with good morning sun and some shade during the afternoon is ideal. Establish the frame to train your tree before planting. You can use a heavy, 14-gauge wire and eye bolts attached to a fence or erect a free-standing frame using posts set in the ground. The tree should be 6-8 inches away from a fence to allow air movement. When shopping for trees there are a few things to consider, which you will

which defined him.

He left a lucrative law career in his late 20s to pursue a higher calling. He was ordained in the Protestant Episcopal tradition at age 35.

The middle-aged, highly literate but unseasoned pastor’s first placement was slated to be Trinity Church in lower Manhattan. It was the tallest building in the country at the time. George Washington and John Adams had worshiped there. By any measure, it was a plum assignment.

Peirce refused it, requesting a church far from the comforts of eastern cities. The day after his ordination he set sail for San Francisco. Three weeks later he reported to Grace Church. In 1860, society was just discovering the church, which would soon expand to become Grace Cathedral, with entire pews reserved for the families of Leland Stanford, Charles Crocker and other wealthy patrons.

Within months Peirce soured on the church and its affluent parishioners. He again requested reassignment, this time to a rural area.

In each of his first two placements he felt money had corrupted the churches, directing the focus away from those who needed the church

find on the grower tag tied to the tree. Look for a dwarfing rootstock. Espaliered trees are usually grown on semi or dwarf root stock. Trees on a dwarfing rootstock will not grow as tall as a standard tree. Is the tree you want self-pollinating? If not, you may need two varieties. Also, what are the chill hours required for the tree? You will want to select a tree with chill hour requirements that your location can meet. You can read more about chill hours in an excellent article by Master Gardener Kit Smith in a past article in the Mountain Democrat, called “Grow For It! Fruit tree chill hours,” published Jan. 10, 2024, mtdemocrat.com/prospecting/ grow-for-it-fruit-tree-chill-hours/ article_b01cea2c-ae73-11ee-ac059f05c869f924.html.

To learn more about espaliered trees and how to train them, check out these resources”

Espaliered Fruit Trees by Contra Costa County Master Gardener Terry Lipper ucanr.edu/sites/ccmg/ files/320922.pdf

This University of Florida Cooperative Extension article has instructions on training espaliered trees at: edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ MG273?downloadOpen=true.

“The American Horticultural Society Pruning & Training,” Aug. 1, 1996, by Christopher Brickell and David Joyce contains detailed information on the training of espaliered trees. It is available in El Dorado County libraries and used bookstores.

You can see an example of espaliered apple trees at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden in Placerville.

Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. You can find a schedule at mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Calendar/ and recorded classes on many gardening topics here: mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/Public_

most.

On Saturday, March 30, 1861, C.C. Pierce arrived in Placerville and checked into the Cary House. The next day was Easter. He conducted the first of hundreds of services at the courthouse, which became his church for the first five years of what became a 42-year love affair between Rev. C.C. Peirce and the people of El Dorado County.

On June 1, just three months after his arrival, the Mountain Democrat reported “The minister in charge of the Society of Episcopalians here, Mr. C.C. Peirce is untiring in his efforts to do good. He not only conducts the service regularly in this city but also attends to the charges at Coloma and Diamond Springs, alternate weeks.”

A month later his Placerville congregation formalized as the Protestant Episcopal Parish of Our Savior.

In addition to his weekly Sunday morning responsibilities at the courthouse — on the first and third Sunday evenings — he traveled to Emanuel Church in Coloma, which hadn’t had a pastor for two years. On the second and fourth Sunday afternoons he held services in Diamond Springs, then went to St.

Education/Classes.

The Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open, weather permitting, on the first Saturday of the month, through February, 9 a.m. to noon.

First Saturday tour starts promptly at 9 a.m. Please check the website for further information about activities at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden at ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_Master_ Gardeners/Demonstration_Garden.

Stephen’s Church in El Dorado for Sunday evening services.

But that’s not enough. The county’s many rural hamlets remain unserved. He developed a mid-week circuit, taking informal services to Kelsey, Georgetown, Clarksville and other far-flung outposts, some two dozen in total, rain or shine, typically on foot.

He was often spotted walking down the road in his grey hat, carpetbag in hand, deep in conversation.

If asked who he was talking to, he responded, “My brother.”

If asked if he would like a ride, “Oh no, thank you,” he would say. “My master walked.”

In each locale a designated family fed him and put him up. He would be gone before they rose in the morning. He spent up to six days each week tending his flock in rural areas, averaging 60 miles per week. Legend holds that he wears out his shoes so quickly that he sometimes walks barefoot.

Other itinerant circuit preachers come and go. This one stays, and they love him for it. Each month, on average, he conducts: one wedding, 2.5 funerals, and 1.5 baptisms, for 42 years.

In May 1864 the ladies of the Church of Our Saviour began fundraising for a dedicated church building. The result of their efforts still stand on Coloma Street today. The first services were held in late December, 1865.

To be clear, The Church of Our Saviour was and is a Protestant Episcopal Church, with direct roots to the Church of England, often simply called Episcopal. The similarly named Methodist Episcopal Church was less formal, and often shortened simply to Methodist.

C.C. Peirce was a fervent believer in fraternal life, fond of saying “The lodge-room is my home.” He held positions of responsibility in several local orders, advancing to the upper echelons of both Odd Fellowship, as a member of the Grand Encampment, and Masonry, as a Royal Arch Mason and a Knights Templar.

He was a loyal Redman, and was also granted membership into local chapters of two previously all-female orders, the Leona Rebecca Lodge and the Fallen Leaf Chapter of the Eastern Star.

How he found time for all these responsibilities is anyone’s guess. He scorned a salary and typically refused payment for his services,

Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the Ask a Master Gardener option on mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Ask_a_Master_Gardener or leave a message at (530) 621-5512. For more information on the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

believing that the people he served would provide his simple needs. And they did. He owned almost nothing. His friends complained that he gave away his effects faster than they could supply him.

The ladies of the Church of Our Saviour formed the Peirce Guild to cover his living expenses. He lodged at the Ohio House for most of that time, insisting on the least desirable rooms in the back. His sermons were extemporaneous, reflecting his deep knowledge of the Bible, philosophy, history and literature. His message was framed in a personal belief in tolerance and universal brotherhood.

His life was not without controversy. He ignored the demands of the Protestant Episcopal diocese for most of his tenure, resulting in dust-ups with two different bishops who showed up to confront him. In each case his flock rose as one in his defense. The bishops were lucky to get out of town with their robes unsoiled.

These stories and other colorful anecdotes from Peirce’s life will be told over refreshments, time permitting, following the presentation. For tickets visit edchs.org.

Dolores Morrison

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

Pixabay image

Pre-trained espaliered trees can be found in nurseries and it’s recommended in El Dorado County that they get good morning sun and some shade during the afternoon.

Peirce Continued from B1

Courtesy photo

When the original building was sold it became the second story of a home, above. It was discovered in 1958 and moved, piece by piece, to its current location, below.

Green Valley Elementary named to the 2024 California Honor Roll

Rescue Union School District

Green Valley Elementary School in the Rescue Union School District has been recognized as a 2024 California Honor Roll School by the Educational Results Partnership.

This prestigious recognition celebrates topperforming schools across the state for their success in closing achievement gaps and advancing academic excellence, particularly among historically disadvantaged student populations.

Now in its 10th year, the California Honor Roll is the only school recognition program in the state that is solely based on objective student achievement data, utilizing results from the

California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress. Green Valley Elementary is one of 1,823 schools to receive this distinction in 2024 — representing approximately 21% of all eligible schools in California.

“We are incredibly proud of Green Valley Elementary for earning this honor,” said RUSD Superintendent Jim Shoemake. “This recognition is a testament to our dedicated educators, hardworking students and supportive families who make academic success a priority.”

The Honor Roll program is co-presented in collaboration with business leaders and chambers of commerce across the state, including the California Chamber of Commerce, California Black Chamber of Commerce, CalAsian Chamber

GATE activities in the spotlight

Buckeye Union School District

News release

Rolling Hills Middle School continues to shine as a leader in fostering creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving through its Gifted and Talented Education Club. This year’s dynamic lineup of activities has engaged students in a variety of hands-on learning experiences designed to challenge and inspire.

Kelly Rose, GATE Club advisor at Rolling Hills Middle School, shared Linda Silverman’s philosophy for nurturing gifted learners, “Giftedness is not a guarantee of success; it is a potential for it. When we recognize giftedness in our children, it is our responsibility to nurture and cultivate it.”

Highlights of this year’s GATE activities

October: Mystery Powders — Students embraced the scientific method as they tested and analyzed various “mystery powders” using pH paper and water. These common household items encouraged curiosity and deduction skills as students worked to identify each substance.

November: Convention of Inventions — Creativity was on full display as students developed their own inventions, presenting them through prototypes, sketches or digital slide shows. The school community selected the top three designs, with Ricky Soe winning first place for his innovative “combination” lock featuring face ID technology.

December: ProblemSolving Tournament — In a spirited competition, students collaborated in teams to solve a series of increasingly challenging puzzles. After three rounds, the top teams earned exciting prizes, including Rubik’s cubes, Knoodle games and pull-apart pens, celebrating their ingenuity and teamwork.

January: Electric Electricity — Students will explore the principles of static and current electricity through engaging stations and lab experiments, fostering an understanding of this essential scientific concept.

Expanding knowledge

“The GATE program has been a great opportunity to learn things that aren’t taught in mainstream education,” said sixthgrader Matthew Mansell.

The excitement will

continue as upcoming activities promise to expand students’ knowledge and skills. Future GATE activities may include a pinewood derby, rocket launches (complete with engines), egg drop challenge and health science exploration, including reading blood pressure, pulse and using a pulse oximeter.

The Rolling Hills Middle School GATE club exemplifies this commitment, creating an environment where gifted students can thrive academically, socially and creatively.

“Our GATE club is a testament to the incredible creativity and curiosity of our students,” shared Principal Debbie Bowers. “These activities not only enhance their academic abilities but also build critical thinking and teamwork skills that will serve them throughout their lives. I’m also thankful to Mrs. Rose for her passion in bringing this to our students.” For information about Rolling Hills Middle School visit rhms. buckeyeusd.org or the main office at (916) 933-9290 or Principal Bowers at dbowers@ buckeyeusd.org.

of Commerce, California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and many more. By recognizing highperforming schools, the program aims to highlight best practices in education and foster collaboration among schools to further accelerate student learning in critical subjects like reading, writing and math.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty and the outstanding achievements of our students,” said Principal Michelle Winberg. “We are honored to be part of a statewide effort that focuses on preparing students for success in school, the workforce and life.”

To see the full list of 2024 California Honor Roll schools and learn more about the methodology behind the process visit edresults.org/honor-roll.

What You Need to Know

• Colonoscopy is the Gold Standard for Screening

• Colonoscopy is

• Delaying Colon Cancer Screening could mean the difference between early detection and a late-stage diagnosis

Colonoscopy: 91-100% accurate detection of advanced precancerous polyps

Cologuard: 42% accurate detection of polyps

Courtesy photos

Rolling Hills Middle School GATE Club students have participated in several fun activities designed to encourage creative thinking and collaboration.

It’s important to save at least some of your money instead of spending it all. But where’s the best place to save it?

If you save your money in a savings account, the bank or credit union pays you for letting them hold

your money. That payment is called interest. Over time, interest adds up and your money starts to grow!

When you put money into your savings account, it is called making a deposit

When you take money out of your account, that is called a withdrawal

Ask a parent to tell you about something they saved their money to buy. Was it hard to save the money? How did it feel when they finally reached their goal?

Penny McThrifty has been saving her money for a couple of years. Between birthday gifts and earning money on her own, she’s doing pretty good. She’s made a lot of deposits, and some withdrawals. The money that is in her account is called a balance

Fill in the missing numbers in the balance column to discover how much is in Penny’s account.

Pretend you are a piggy bank and shake yourself. Can you hear the jingle of coins? Shake to the left! Shake to the right!

Taking some money out of a savings account is called a: 1. a. deposit b. withdrawal c. balance

Putting money into a savings account is called a: a. deposit b. withdrawal c. balance

... you are letting the bank use it. Banks combine the money from lots of people to make loans to people who want to borrow money.

The total amount of money you have in a savings account is called a: a. deposit b. withdrawal c. balance

Toss ten coins onto the sidewalk. Can you hop from coin to coin, standing on one foot? Next, do deep knee bends to pick them all up!

Try to do ten sit-ups while balancing three coins on your head. Now have a friend try. Could either of you do it?

The bank pays you to let them use your money. This payment that the bank makes to you is called interest

Try to walk across your yard with a dollar bill on your head. It’ll take some smooth moves to keep the dollar from dropping! The noun deposit means an amount of money put into a savings account.

Try to use the word deposit in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members. Raj made a deposit of $50 with all the birthday money he received.

Find the two identical piggy banks.

Thbk k

Feb. 23

The Vita Academy presents TriMusica and Friends at 2 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Feb. 24

Snowline Health Dementia Connection hosts Addressing Dementia Challenging Symptoms of Home and Community Safety Issues at Foothills Church, 2380 Merrychase Drive, Cameron Park, 1:30-3 p.m. For more information call (530) 621-7820 or email dementia@ snowlinehealth.org.

Feb. 27

Snowline Health Dementia Connection hosts a free Caregiver Support Group at the Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, 10:30 a.m. to noon. For more information call (530) 6217820 or email dementia@snowlinehealth.org.

Feb 28

The Stage at Burke Junction presents “Lobby Hero” Feb. 28 through March 30. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com. Brigham Young University presents BYU Ballroom Dance: Rhythm at 7 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

March 1

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

Folsom Lake Symphony presents the Star-Crossed Lovers concert at 7:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 6086888.

March 3

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

March 4

Broadway Sacramento presents “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical"

Solving problems… it’s what we do! Since 1984! New & Refurbished Computers Sales and Service

March 4-8 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in downtown Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Now

The Mills Station Arts & Culture Center in Rancho Cordova presents Bearing Witness, an exhibit that will educate viewers about the perils of antisemitism, racism, homophobia, sexism and inequity, through Feb. 22. For more information visit rcmacc.org.

Switchboard Gallery, 525 Main St. in downtown Placerville, hosts Atelier on Main: A Placerville Arts Association member show through Feb. 23. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado. org/gallery.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Rumpelstiltskin” through Feb. 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Broadway Sacramento presents “Mean Girls" through Feb. 23 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in downtown Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents "Marie Curie and the Sisterhood of Science” through Feb. 23 at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Viewpoint Photographic Art Center in Sacramento presents Faces of America: Getting By in Our Economy and Mark Thomas & John Romie: The Road through March 1. For more information visit viewpointphotoartcenter.org.

Imagination Theater at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents "Stuart Little, The Musical" by Joseph Robinette and Ronna Frank through March 2. Enjoy the story of an extraordinary mouse from an ordinary human family in New York City. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.

California Stage presents “As You Like It” at the R25 Arts Complex in Sacramento through March 2. For tickets and more information visit calstage.org.

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

The Sacramento Fine Arts Center in Carmichael presents Awash with Color, an annual art show featuring the members of Watercolor Artists of Sacramento Horizons, through March 8. For info visit sacfinearts.org.

Dental Hygienst

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

Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom presents Art Movement in Fiber — a juried exhibition of quilts by the members of SAQA Northern California and Northern Nevada Region — through March 27. For more information call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us.

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

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Collidoscope – De La Torre Brothers Retrospective through May 4; Frames of Mind – The Ramer Photography Collection through May 4; Black & Gold – Traditional and Contemporary Japanese and Chinese Ceramics through Dec. 31, 2025; and Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030. For more information visit crockerart.org.

EDH Cars and Coffee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. Everyone and every type of vehicle is welcome. The motto is "If it rolls, it goes.” The Murer House Foundation continues its Italian language classes at the Murer House Learning Center in old Folsom. Students can learn Italian in small and supportive classes designed to maximize contact with the teacher. For more information and to enroll visit murerhousefoundation.org/language-classes.

Sierra Wildlife Rescue hosts classes now through April 6 at 777 Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs. For more information visit sierrawildliferescue.org

Dr, Ste. B • Placerville Porch Pirate Safety Zone! Now offering a SAFE place for your packages. Have your packages delivered here at NO CHARGE!

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

Beale Falls Trail

The drive out to Yuba County is well worth it to experience the open spaces and stunning Beale Falls. Some hikers refer to it as Fairy Falls; whatever name you choose, it’s a delightful hike, especially when the fields are lush and green. Have you visited Beale Falls before?

Share your photos using #DayHikerCA.

Scenic loop through pastureland

This 5-mile loop trail takes you through old pastureland, offering sweeping views through the oakdotted fields. The property is wellmaintained, making for an enjoyable, easy hike that leads to the threetiered waterfalls. The upper falls are fenced off due to a steep drop, while the middle section is accessible with some rock hopping and bouldering. The lower section is easier to reach and offers a refreshing swimming hole if you visit during the summer months. Personally, I prefer the hike in winter or early spring when the fields are vibrant and green.

Getting to Beale Falls

From Interstate 80 East, take the Highway 49 North exit toward Grass Valley.

In Grass Valley, take the Highway 20 exit toward Marysville.

Just past the Yuba County line, turn left onto Hammonton Smartsville Road.

Take a left on Chuck Yeager Road and then turn left off the pavement onto Waldo Road into the wildlife area. Continue past the shooting range on your left. After about 2 miles, you’ll cross a creek; turn left onto Spenceville Road.

The parking area is on your left, just before the yellow gate at the end of the road.

Trail highlights and tips

Trail experience: Cross the footbridge and head right, following the creek through rolling hills. The trail opens up into pastureland, where you’ll turn right and pass through a gate. After crossing a cattle gate, you can choose either the upper or lower trail to start the loop to the falls.

Seasonal advice: This trail is most popular in spring when the waterfall flows strongly and the fields are full of wildflowers. If you prefer a quieter experience, try winter or early spring when the crowds are smaller and the green fields are at their best.

Safety note: The falls reach about 100 feet, and the pool at the bottom is a great spot to cool off in summer. However, the rocks can be slippery, so take care if you plan on exploring the middle tier.

Natural playground for all

This easy to moderate trail offers a variety of experiences, from the peaceful pastures to the lively creek that follows much of the path. As the trail gets heavy use during peak season, plan your visit accordingly. And don’t forget — if you’ve hiked here, let me know your favorite spot on social media.

Mary West is author of the book series “Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide” I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Mary West Outdoor columnist

Photos by Mary West

The sweeping view of Beale Falls, also known as Fairy Falls, from the trail belies the majestic 100 foot cascade. The trail opens up after crossing a footbridge.

Stand

Comedy at The Stage @ 8pm / $28 Home Grown Comedy at The Stage! Featuring Paul Conners, Gabriel Alexan‐der, and JillDo! The Stage at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. stageatburke@ gmail.com

Heath Harmison - LIVE COMEDY @ 9:30pm / $29 Feb 21st - Feb 22nd Heath is one of the funniest clean comedians out there. Laughs Un‐limited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsunlimited@gmail.com, 916446-8128

YOGA AT THE HIVE WITH KAIA FIT @ 10am / $25 Enjoy monthly yoga in our pollinator garden begin‐ning Saturday, February 22nd. The HIVE Tasting Room and Kitchen, 1221 Harter Avenue, Woodland. thehive@zspecialty food.com, 530-668-0660

A Conversation with Bussie Parker Kehoe @ 2pm Join us at the Pence for a conver‐sation with artist Bussie Parker Kehoe & Director Natalie Nelson! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@gmail.com, 530-758-3370

EXPERTS ONLY: JOHN SUMMIT, KYLE WATSON, WESTEND, NEM @ 6:30pm Tahoe Blue Event Center, 75 Hwy 50, Stateline

Tribute Saturdays Live @ Music City San Francisco @ 7pm / $29 Discover new bands and unforget‐table experiences at The Music City Underground! 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Francisco. aprill@ musiccitysf.org

Brian Bromberg: Charles Ruggiero Three-O! @ 7pm Black Cat, 400 Eddy St, San Fran‐cisco

Audio1 @ 7pm SPIN San Francisco, 690 Folsom St #100, San Francisco

Stabe Wilson: L.A. Fires

Fundraiser @ 3pm Empress Theatre, 330 Vir‐ginia St, Vallejo Blackout Makeout/ Mullet‐proof/ Love and Havoc @ 7pm / $14.60 Neck of the Woods, San Francisco

Brian Bromberg: Charles Ruggiero Three-O! @ 7pm Black Cat, 400 Eddy St, San Fran‐cisco

Uncle Chris @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Dance Fitness Classes at Woodland Senior Center @ 10:15am Dance �tness Classes for Seniors Woodland Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Wood‐land. tina�tness68@gmail.com

Rotary Club of Davis Weekly Lunch & Program @ 12pm See website for details. ro‐taryclubofdavis.com Davis Com‐munity Church, 421 D Street, Davis. teainsworth@gmail.com

Children's Dance Classes After School at the Davis Arts Center @ 4pm Tina Fitness offers children's Dance classes after school at the Davis Arts Center. Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�t ness68@gmail.com

Music City SF PresentsThe Motown Sound | Free Entry @ 7pm / Free Featuring DJ 7evenB Spinning Timeless Grooves 1355 Bush St, 1355 Bush Street, San Francisco

Dead Heat @ 7pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco Cavalera @ 7pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco

New West @ 8pm Gold�eld Trading Post - Sacra‐mento, 1630 J Street, Sacramento

Hayden Everett @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

New West North American Tour '25 @ 8pm Gold�eld Trading Post, Sacra‐mento

only agency authorized by the CA DEPARTMENT of AGING to offer Medicare Seminars. HICAP does not sell or endorse insurance products Benicia Senior Citizens, 187 East L Street, Benicia. hicap info@sasnb.org, 707-526-4108

Jenny Kerr & Friends

Acoustic Happy Hour

@ 6:30pm Madrone Art Bar, 500 Divisadero St, San Francisco

By All Means

Comedy Competi‐tion @ 7pm / $13

A local stand up competi‐tion hosted by Josh Means highlighting the up and coming talent in and around the Sacramento area. Every competition is closed out with an amaz‐ing SURPRISE GUEST! Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsunlimited@ gmail.com, 916-446-8128 Strawberry Jealous - Rock, Folk, Blues and Country Night @

Nuclear Disarmament Activism: Does it "Work"? @ 7pm Does Nuclear Disarmament Ac‐tivism “Work”? Taking Stock of Different Approaches with Prof. Stephen Herzog and Masako Toki of the Center for Nonproliferation Studies in Monterey Davis Friends Meeting (Quakers), 345 L Street, Davis. sfpattison@gmail.com, 530220-5042

Starling @ 8pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento

Tommy Odetto: Bay Area Appearance @ 8pm / $11.82-$19.74 Blue Note Napa, Napa

Danny V @ 8pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission St, San Francisco

DannyV, R.SOL @ 8pm / $22.84 Brick and Mortar Music Hall, San Francisco

Repeater @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Deadringer/ The Human Contortion/ The Tower The Fool @ 8pm / $14.60 Neck of the Woods, San Francisco

Tai Chi Classes for Beginners @ 9am Beginning tai chi classes offered at the Woodland Community & Senior Center. Woodland Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�tness68@ gmail.com

Scott Amendola: Amendola vs. Blades w/ special guest Dan White! Key Jazz Bistro - 7pm show! @ 7pm Keys Jazz Bistro, 498 Broadway, San Francisco

Los Yesterdays @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Seablite @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Milk For The Angry @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Nibling Rivalry's February show @ 9pm / $12

St, Sacra‐mento

@ 7pm / $29 Feb 21st - Feb 22nd Heath is one of the funniest clean comedians out there. Laughs Un‐limited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsunlimited@gmail.com, 916446-8128

Brian Bromberg:

Fri‐days, 550 Barneveld, San Fran‐cisco. info@dancesf.com, 877398-7025

JGB @ 7:30pm The War�eld, 982 Market St, San Francisco

Les Savy Fav @ 8pm Great American Music Hall, San Francisco

La Sombra @ 8:30pm Knockout, 3223 Mission St, San Francisco

Elysian Moon: Ecstatic Dance - SF @ 10am Church Of 8 Wheels, 554 Fillmore St, San Francisco

Jet Black Pearl: With the Amazing Bubble Man at Yountville Community Center @ 1pm Yountville Community Center, 6516 Washington St, Yountville

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

Blackout Make Out - Live at Neck of the Woods, San Francisco Feb 23, 6pm @ 6pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

2ND @ 6:30pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco

Beginning + Intermediate Tai Chi @ 10am Tai chi classes for beginning and intermediate practitioners at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�t ness68@gmail.com Drew Harrison: Camp

Nibling Rivalry is a highenergy, fast-paced, longform clap-in improv show that will take you on the comedy equivalent of a midway ride at a kitten rodeo. (No kittens will be harmed.) Sacramento Comedy Spot, 1050 20th Street, Sacramento. mickey@saccomedys pot.com, 916-444-3137

Mamadou Traore’s African Art PopUp @ 4pm During Black History Month, Mamadou Traore will host a pop-up exhibit and shop of African art and artisan goods in the IHouse’s Lounge from 4 –6:30

Scott Amendola: Amendola vs. Blades w/ special guest Dan White! Key Jazz Bistro - 9pm Show! @ 9pm Keys Jazz Bistro, 498 Broadway, San Francisco

Sterling Scott - LIVE COMEDY @ 9:30pm / $29 Feb 28th - Mar 1st Often described as a high-energy performer and a crowd favorite Sterling Scott is a Canadian comedic national treasure on the rise to stardom. Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club