Mountain Democrat, Friday, March 1, 2024

Noel Stack

Managing editor

Anonymous complaints, calls for resignations and accusations of misconduct have put a dark cloud over the El Dorado Hills Community Services District Board of Directors in recent months and it loomed large once again at the Feb. 8 board meeting.

Director Steve Ferry opened directors’ comments with the

statement that an anonymous complaint has been made against him. That was followed by Director Heidi Hannaman calling recent events “a witch hunt” and sharing that she has received three anonymous complaints and two anonymous public records requests.

EDH leaders under fire

“This organization needs a regime change and it needs a correction in action.”

— George Steed, El Dorado Hills resident

“I have been advised that what is being requested is potentially outside of the scope of the Public Records Act so I will be asking the district to pay for a second legal opinion to be sure that my privacy interests are protected as,

Broadway to see more improvements on the horizon

Odin Rasco Sta writer

Placerville’s Broadway corridor is set to see marked improvements in 2024 as a result of private developments and

public projects bringing long-sought-after changes to the area.

Visitors to the shopping center on upper Broadway have undoubtedly noticed the significant facelift it has undergone in the past year. The center, now known as Apple Farm Place, has had more than just a slap of paint and an exterior refresh.

Helmed by Leonard Grado, head of Grado Construction and Palos Verdes Properties and a longtime resident of El Dorado County, Apple Farm Place is described by the developer as a $11.5 million investment in the future of the area.

“I think it’s well worth the investment to make that end of the community nicer,” Grado said in 2023.

As previously announced, Grocery Outlet and Dollar Tree

will be joined by Harbor Freight Tools, which is set to open in the spring. The business is expected to bring 25-30 new jobs to Placerville.

“We’ve been looking to open a location in Placerville for a number of years so that we can provide the tools and equipment at tremendous values to the community,” said Trey Feiler, senior vice president of real estate and construction for Harbor Freight Tools.

Apple Farm Place LLC has also finalized agreements for two new tenants: Barebones Workwear and Beach Hut Deli.

“Barebones Workwear is an apparel company that o ers several of the leading brands of work and uniform apparel, including

few,”

fix our broken mental health system and move people permanently o the streets, out of tents and into treatment.”

The ballot measure would fund construction of mental health and substance abuse treatment centers throughout California and be used to assist people experiencing homelessness and those su ering from substance abuse.

If passed, Prop. 1 would go into e ect July 2026. Five percent of California counties’ funding for providing mental health services would be directed to fund Prop. 1, which would reduce money available for community-based programs such as student wellness centers, El Dorado County’s National Alliance of Mental Illness chapter programs and homeless shelters.

"We may not directly see housing for our most chronically homeless individuals in our county, but we are giving up the preventative care that we think is so important.”

— John Hidahl, District 1 supervisor

According to county Director of Communications Carla Hass, the Behavioral Health Department budget is approximately $80 million for mental health services, of which $11 million comes from the Mental Health Services Act. The county also receives $20 million in state and federal funding for housing/homeless services.

The Board of Supervisors’ resolution states Prop. 1 would “erode local control” in how counties address mental health and homelessness, as well as a ect land-use decisions.

“I want to emphatically state I think we all recognize that California’s behavioral health system is broken,” said Board Chair and District 3 Supervisor Wendy Thomas. “We know that we need housing for treatment for the unhoused and those with serious mental illnesses; we recognize that. The problem is that kind of support needs to be in addition to, not at the expense of, local funding for local programing, especially in the mild to moderate category.”

The Placer County Board of Supervisors passed a similar resolution in February, opposing Prop. 1 for similar reasons. The passing of the county resolution declares the board’s opposition of the ballot measure but supervisors cannot encourage

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco The

Phil Michael Lorda

July 20, 1949 – Jan. 23, 2024

Phil Michael Lorda born

Ronald Charles Mansfield

July 10, 1947 – Feb. 25, 2024

On February 25th, 2024

Ronald Charles Mansfield passed peacefully after years of bravely battling Parkinson’s Disease. Known as Ron to many, and ‘Manny’ to some, all knew him for his unmatched work ethic, impeccable integrity, and tireless advocacy for the agricultural industry and its laborers in El Dorado County.

Born to Tony and Barbara Mansfield in Bakersfield, California on July 10, 1947, Ron was raised with his brother Terry and two sisters Joan and Lynn. Exposed to agriculture at a young age, Ron pursued his budding passion by studying at UC Davis and graduating in 1974. Ron met his wife of 45 years, Carolyn, while at university. On August 5, 1978 they wed on campus.

Ron then took a position with the El Dorado Irrigation District, installing soil moisture probes in local fields and helping to develop EID’s Irrigation Management System, which provided growers data allowing for the judicious irrigation of crops. This efficiency program still runs today and serves as the industry’s gold standard in irrigation conservation.

Ron’s entrepreneurial spirit drove him to found Goldbud Farms with his wife in 1980 with the vision of diversifying El Dorado crops beyond the apples and pears that were widely planted at the time. Soon Ron’s cherries, peaches, nectarines, and plums garnered a sterling reputation. On a visit to David Berkley’s grocery store in Fair Oaks in the early 1980’s, White House Chief Usher Gary J. Walters sampled Goldbud’s cherries and fell in love. Every president from Reagan to Obama then enjoyed the fruits of Ron’s labor.

Subtly dotted with dozens of Ron’s orchards and vineyards, the El Dorado County landscape will remain touched by Ron’s legacy. He spent decades furthering the post-prohibition re-birth of local viticulture and winemaking spurred by pioneers like Greg Boeger, John MacCready, and Dick Bush. Ron also served on the County Agricultural Commission from 2009 to 2020, deliberating land use policy and crafting ordinances related to farming for many compositions of the Board of Supervisors.

An avid life-long bowler, in 2022 Ron proudly competed in his 50th consecutive USBC National Open Championship in Las Vegas alongside his bowling partner John Pocekay who has also competed in every tournament with Ron since Long Beach 1972. Despite noticeably struggling with his symptoms, Ron finished his amateur career that day to a standing ovation and a respectable multi-strike game, a heartwarming and simultaneously tear-jerking moment for all in attendance.

Horse Racing was another passion of Ron’s. The first racehorse he owned; ‘Loyal Lad’ won him enough money to purchase the land where Goldbud Farms sits. Ron brought many others into the sport, owning ‘Alicia Guest’ and ‘Reno Rose’ in partnership with friends and family members. His greatest champion ‘Western Paradise’ was named ‘Stallion of the Decade’ in 2020 after he won many prestigious cups nationally. Western bloodline descendant ‘Shelter in Pace’ recently graced Ron with 7 consecutive victories to start her career in Ron’s last days. She will race on in his absence along with dozens of other horses in the vaunted bloodline dotting stables across the U.S. Ron carried his passion, dedication, patience, and integrity into the home each evening. Among all his achievements, accolades, and awards in his career and with his hobbies, Ron can now rest proudly assured his legacy as a wonderful husband and deeply dedicated father is cemented in the hearts and minds of his loving family members, business partners and employees. Ron is survived by his wife Carolyn, daughter Amanda, her husband Josh, son Charles, his wife Kristin, and five loving grandchildren; Jett, Max, John, Mira and Ben.

A celebration of life will be held 1:00 PM, April 13th, 2024 at David Girard Vineyards. In lieu of flowers or gifts, family requests that any remembrances or gestures come in the form of donations to Snowline Hospice.

July 20, 1949 passed January 23, 2024. Born in Auburn CA, Phil grew up there most of his life, he was hired on at Michigan Cal Lumber Co., he worked there for 26 years. Phil had 1 sister, Melissa and 1 brother, Marty. Phil was a fun loving guy, would do anything for anybody. Phil loved cars and anything mechanical. He lived with his partner Sue for 30 years. He loved to join Sue for her reunion parties, loved to talk and talk and talk! Sue bought him a shirt once that said “I started talking and I can’t shut up!” “That was my Phil, he was the love of my life”

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday March 30th at Sue & Phil’s, 2657 Cold Springs Road from 12 - 5pm.

Diane Moffitt

Dec. 30, 1941 – Jan. 12, 2024

Diane was born in Oakland, California on December 30, 1941. She grew up in Oakland with her parents, Otto and Cecilia Weber and her younger brother Paul. The day after her graduation from high school her parents sold their house in Oakland and moved to Kyburz, California, and that’s when her love for the mountains began. Diane returned to Oakland to attend Holy Names University. While attending college she joined the Women’s Army Corp. She rose to the rank of First Lieutenant and was to be promoted to Captain when her time in the Army ended. She was very proud of her time in the Army serving a total of 3 years, 3 months and 27 days.

She relocated to Virginia, where she was married and had 4 daughters, Jennifer, Diana, Alice, and Kristina. After the marriage ended Diane and her girls moved back to California. She continued to make her trips up Highway 50, back packing, hiking, camping with her girls and they too found the mountains to be home. Diane loved to travel! As her girls got older and started their own lives, she started her own traveling adventures, Holland, Germany, Belgium, Paris, the Holy Lands, Medjugorje, and a trip of a lifetime was 18 days of white water rafting down the Grand Canyon and visited many other places in the United States as well.

Diane was an avid reader and had collected books of her favorite authors, so she built a library in her house. While working as the parish secretary at St. Patrick Catholic Church she saw many beautiful stamps pass through her office. She began saving them and continued to collect them even after she retired. Diane loved music, everything from John Denver to John Williams. Her time at St. Patrick Church and later for the American Red Cross, both fed her soul, as well as her heart, to be of service to others.

It’s been said, if you knew Diane, you would know how proud she was of her girls. “I am very proud of my girls. They are all very different and successful in their own way and it’s has been a gift to see them grow up to be such beautiful, hardworking women”.

Diane passed away peacefully on January 12, 2024 surrounded by her family. She is survived by her daughters Jennifer Moffitt, Alice Boerstra, and Diana Hillman and son-in-law Rick Hillman, her grandchildren Brittany Boerstra, Noah and wife Rheannon Boerstra, Madeline Boerstra, Ashley and husband David Rojo, Richard and wife Menominee Hillman, Adam and wife Breanna Hillman. Great grandkids: Zachary, Jacob, Elizabeth and Samantha Rojo, Charlotte, Levi and Samuel Hillman. She is proceeded in death by her parents Otto and Cecilia Weber and her youngest daughter Kristina Moffitt.

Funeral Services will be at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Folsom on March 9, 2024 at 12:00.

Theresa Anne Markie

March 15, 1937 – Feb. 19, 2024

Theresa Anne Markie born

March 15, 1937 passed away peacefully at her home February 19, 2024.

Theresa is survived by her husband of 68 years, Edward Markie, her 6 children, 12 Grandchildren and 26 Great Grandchildren and Theresa’s twin brother Joseph Bundas (Joan Bundas), brother-in- law Richard Markie (Gina Markie).

Theresa’s life was blessed with wondrous adventures and travels all over the world with her husband.

Donations may be made in Theresa’s memory to the Mother Teresa Maternity Home. (motherteresamaternityhome.com)

Vigil — March 6, 2024, 2:00 to 6:00 pm. at Chapel of the Pines Funeral Home, Placerville, CA 95667

Mass — March 7, 2024, 11:00 am at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Placerville, CA 95667.

Jocelyn Rose Eastwood

Nov. 17, 1942 – Feb. 27, 2024

After an amazing, fulfilling and wonderful life Lyn has left this world and has gone to be with her parents, past loves and all of the beautiful pets she’s loved over the years. Service to others was so important to her. She helped so many people from opening the health depot and supporting those in need to her family of AA. Even during the last 2 years of illness she was able to help advocate for others.

She leaves behind her loving, constant companion and caregiver Patrick, her sister Gayle, brothers James (Rae Ann) and Paul (Bonnie), nieces and nephews and her wonderful support group of women she proudly called her ‘posse’. Lyn loved life to the fullest!

David Rogers

March 17, 1943 – Feb. 19, 2024

David was born on March 17, 1943 in Auburn, California to Mr. and Mrs. Carrol E. Rogers. His older brother is Carrol Rogers Jr. He attended St. Mary’s Academy in Grass Valley until the family moved to Placerville in 1955. He attended El Dorado High School and graduated in 1961.

David attended the University of Nevada graduating with a B.S. in Geological Engineering in 1967. This same year David married JoAnne Latimer, his only love.

They had two boys: Matthew (1981-2001) and Michael (1983 - ∞) .

In 1967 David received orders from the army to be on active duty, eventually being sent to Korea. As a lieutenant in the chemical corp he was assigned to defoliation of the Korean DMZ with Agent Orange and Agent Blue.

In 1970 David and JoAnne moved from Korea to Reno, Nevada, where David attended UNR and received a M.S. in Geological Engineering. He then joined a firm in the Bay Area working on dams, tunnels, and ocean outfalls. He eventually started his own firm, The Mark Group, which grew to 200 employees.

In 2003 the Mark Group was sold, David retired. However, he was recruited by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission as a Regional Manager rebuilding the Hetch Hetchy Water System. Again retired in 2008 and they moved to Pollock Pines.

David devoted a great deal of his retirement to writing expert opinion letters for veterans who were denied benefits and generates more than a million dollars in benefits for those individuals annually.

The religious service will be at St. Patrick Church in Placerville, Friday, March 1, 2024 at 1 p.m. David will be laid to rest at Oakmont Memorial Park in Pleasant Hill, CA, next to his beloved son Matthew. Instead of flowers please donate to the Mother Theresa Home care of St. Patrick Catholic Curch Placerville, CA

and water-skiing. He was brought to tears when his last grandchild learned to water ski. He will be missed. A celebration of life will be held at the Hagen Ranch in El Dorado on April 20th at 2pm. Potluck to follow for friends and family. In lieu of flowers please give to your favorite charity.

Chiefs ‘superfan’ pleads guilty to bank robberies

n U.S. Bank in EDH was one of the banks hit across seven states

Attorney’s Office, Western District of Missouri News release

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A man popularly known as Kansas City Chiefs superfan “ChiefsAholic” pleaded guilty in federal court Feb. 28 to charges related to a string of 11 robberies, or attempted robberies, of financial institutions in seven states. In July 2023 the U.S. Bank in El Dorado Hills was the last bank robbed before Xaviar Michael Babudar, 29, was taken into custody.

“His violent crime spree across the Midwest and beyond traumatized bank employees and victimized financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. “The defendant tried to conceal hundreds of thousands of dollars in stolen cash by using it to gamble online and at casinos, but the odds caught up with him.”

Babudar pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to one count of money laundering and one count of transporting stolen property across state lines. Babudar

CRIME LOG

The

Feb. 11

8:11

Feb. 12

9:52

4:53 p.m.

10:22 p.m.

a 41-year-old man suspected of vehicle theft, impersonation, driving with out a license and other offenses on Highway 50 in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $20,000 bail.

Feb. 13

5:57 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Canal Street.

9:52 a.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive.

5:01 p.m. Petty theft was reported at the library on Fair Lane.

Prop. 1

also pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery, which is contained in a separate case filed in the Northern District of Oklahoma.

Babudar also admitted that he engaged in a string of nine bank and credit union robberies (or attempted robberies) in 2022 followed by two bank robberies committed while he was a fugitive from justice.

XAVIAR MICHAEL BABUDAR

“Babudar walked into a bank in Bixby, Okla., demanded money, and threatened to shoot them if they did not comply,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson of the Northern District of Oklahoma. “Babudar posed a serious danger and risk to the public. I am thankful for the efforts of the Bixby Police Department, the FBI and federal prosecutors in holding him accountable.”

“While Babudar garnered significant national attention,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Stephen A. Cyrus, “his criminal actions were reckless — intimidating and victimizing bank employees and the institutions themselves. Significant law

Feb. 14

8:15 a.m. Petty theft was reported at an apartment complex on Tunnel Street.

8:54 a.m. Officers booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of DUI, embezzlement, possession of illegal drug paraphernalia, giving false identification to officers and obstruction on Woodbridge Court. He was released on $3,000 bail.

11:26 a.m. Officers booked into jail a 35-year-old man suspected of a parole violation on Fair Lane. He was later released.

2 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a park on Clark Street.

3:15 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 39-year-old woman suspected of child abuse, possession of a controlled substance and driving on a suspended license on Placerville Drive. She was released on $50,000 bail.

4:28 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 48-year-old man suspected of trespassing and being under the influence of a controlled substance on Placerville Drive. He was later released.

7:03 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a facility on Coloma Street.

Feb. 15

4:44 p.m. Officers booked into jail a

Continued from A1

voters to support their position as individual board members or as a collective board.

Under the 2004 Mental Health Services Act, which Prop. 1 would overhaul, at least 95% of a mental health tax goes to California counties to be used for mental health services.

Thomas, along with District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl, brought the resolution forward; the resolution states Prop. 1 “would erode control and take away the rights of local governments to have separate zoning for substance use disorder facilities.”

The state can also use the funds to purchase motels and hotels to create housing for those experiencing homelessness, substance abuse and mental health issues.

“We know what our rural county needs,” Thomas added. “While Prop. 1 may increase housing, it will also force us to reduce existing mental health services and community-based programs that are working, in favor of a one-size-fits-all solution dictated by the state, and that never goes well for rural residents and rural California.”

Thomas noted there would be a 30% reduction in money available for community-based programs. Supervisors were also concerned shifting money from prevention to serve the most severe needs takes away local needs.

Hidahl had a different perspective; he said county Health and Human Services Agency funds are already difficult to administer, adding he does not view Prop. 1 as a viable solution. Hidahl further speculated the county will likely not see such state housing or treatment centers in El Dorado County.

“We could, but they’re probably going to put it where housing is most needed (like) Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles. We may not directly see housing for our most chronically homeless individuals in

46-year-old man suspected of driving without a license and possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Missouri Flat Road. He was listed in custody in lieu of $300,000 bail.

5:16 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 48-year-old man suspected of trespassing and battery of a peace officer on Placerville Drive. He was released on $7,500 bail.

10:24 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a hotel on Main Street.

Feb. 16

3:09 a.m. Officers booked into jail a 45-year-old woman suspected of DUI on Placerville Drive. She was later released.

3:16 a.m. Officers booked into jail a 41-year-old man suspected of starting an illegal fire and trespassing on Spring Street. He was listed in custody in lieu of $65,000 bail.

11:31 a.m. Indecent exposure was reported at a store on Placerville Drive.

1:15 p.m. Vandalism was reported in the Center Street parking garage.

3:37 p.m. Officers booked into jail a 36-year-old woman suspected of trespassing on Placerville Drive. She was later released.

our county, but we are giving up the preventative care that we think is so important,” Hidahl said.

There were 171,500 people experiencing homelessness in California in the beginning of 2022. The number of homeless individuals in El Dorado County has stayed in the 500-600 range since 2017, according to past point-in-time counts. Of those numbers, about 33% are chronically homeless, Hidahl noted.

“Prevention is key if you are going to keep that population number low,” Hidahl added. “If you allow them to slip from being on the margin of being homeless into more homelessness for any number of reasons and aren’t able to provide services that keep them from homelessness, the problem grows substantially.”

The vote to pass the resolution opposing Prop. 1 was not unanimous.

In a 3-1 vote, District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine cast the sole “no,” citing concerns El Dorado County “won’t build affordable housing.”

The Tahoe, Meyers and Pollock Pines representative said while South Lake Tahoe has been on top of creating housing for the unhoused, most other jurisdictions held their money, forcing the state’s hand.

Laine was also concerned it is “too late” to pass such a resolution, as Election Day is around the corner and many people have already voted.

“Although I do not want to lose local control as my colleagues have mentioned, and I don’t have a great deal of confidence in the state of California at such a big level to be able to make any real steps to help this, I think it is getting to the point where if we are not willing to do it in our own communities, this problem is getting out of control,” Laine said.

The symbolic resolution passed, with District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin absent from the meeting.

enforcement resources were utilized across multiple states to locate and arrest Babudar. This would not have occurred without the assistance and due diligence of our local, state, and federal partners.”

Under the terms of Babudar’s plea agreement, he must pay at least $532,675 in restitution to the victim financial institutions. Babudar also must forfeit to the government any property involved in his money laundering activity, including an autographed painting of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick L. Mahomes II that has been recovered by the FBI.

Babudar, who lived a nomadic existence at various locations around the Kansas City metropolitan area, enjoyed a robust social media presence as Kansas City Chiefs superfan Twitter user @ChiefsAholic, attending most games dressed as a wolf in Chiefs clothing.

The superfan pleaded guilty this week to stealing $70,000 from the Clive, Iowa, branch of Great Western Bank on March 2, 2022. Babudar admitted that he entered the bank wearing a ski mask and handed the bank teller a note demanding money

and indicating he had a firearm. As he fled on foot, Babudar left behind a black glove and approximately $1,420 in $20 bills in a wooded area near the bank. Investigators later recovered Babudar’s DNA from the black glove. Babudar then carried this money to Missouri, depositing it in two separate transactions into his personal savings account in an attempt to conceal the criminal nature of the proceeds. Babudar also pleaded guilty to stealing $139,500 from Tulsa Teachers Federal Credit Union in Bixby, Okla., on Dec. 16, 2022. Babudar admitted that he entered the credit union armed with what appeared to be a black handgun, jumped the teller counter, and ordered a bank employee at gunpoint to go to the credit union’s vault. Once at the vault, Babudar demanded that bank employees open the vault and put the money from the vault into a plastic bag. During this robbery, Babudar told credit union employees that if they did not comply he would shoot them.

When Babudar was arrested shortly after the robbery, he had a large bag in his possession that contained $139,500 in $100 bills plus $10,750 in $50 bills, totaling $150,250 in cash. When investigators searched his 2019 Mazda 3, they found numerous pairs of goggles and gloves, which Babudar

n See SUPERFAN, page A5

In politics endorsements are important.

To all my lifelong friends, neighbors and people that live and vote in District 3 (El Dorado, Diamond Springs, Placerville & Camino)

My difference is the fact that I didn’t solicit any endorsements from anybody. The only important endorsement I need is yours by a vote for me in the upcoming election because you feel confidence and trust in me to lead with common sense, care, compassion, and integrity for your future and that of District 3 in the next four years.

We have major problems that have been kicked down the road by past and present Boards of Supervisors for years. Those issues:

Are balancing the budget in the years ahead when 49% of the budget NOW comes from government grants,

If El Dorado Hills becomes a city, there goes that property tax revenue, it is not a question of if, but WHEN.

Our roads are in a disaster from years of “kicking the can down the street” by boards of supervisors for wrong priorities and not the needs of the county then and in the future being given any thought, in my opinion.

Our lumber industry has burned down, Our mining has left the county with Elvis, Tourism is on the ropes because we our destroying our history that people come here to see and the lack of will hurt our tourist related businesses, Small farms are on the decrease because of the NEW EID rates voted for by my opponent as a member of the EID Board.

SO where will the county get the needed revenue????

Attracting new business??? Maybe???

Approving large scale subdivisions for future property tax roles at your expense and mine with loss of our quality of life and forcing all of us to do without in years of drought, safety on our roads, and increased fire danger??? In my opinion, YES, because it is already being showcased with current developments like Dorado Oaks. The new Mosquito Bridge will open Mosquito up for future subdivisions where purchase of land has already begun if rumors are to be believed.

This is the year that who you vote for will set the direction of the county for the next four years with three seats up for election.

We replace three supervisors and the direction and atitude of the board changes with them.

We need a board that listens and responds to you, your problems and those coming very soon.

We need to prepare for the future in all maters, We need to protect our quality of life,

We need to fix our roads as a top priority.

We need to create jobs for residents and careers for our children.

WE need to stop contracting out of the county for goods and services unless as the county charter states that there is a SIGNIFICANT difference in price.

We must reinstitute competitive bidding and not use paterned excuses as a reason for not doing so.

We need to protect and restore our local “Gold Rush History” to bring the tourists back and help our tourist related businesses.

We need to protect our agricultural farms and wineries from encroachment that restricts their ability to do business.

We need to look at the El Dorado County Agricultural Ordinance as it is currently approved. I had no reason to read it until a week ago upon some advice to do so. What I read was, in my opinion, an over regulated ordinance that needs to be reevaluated. It, in my opinion, lets the county run your business and then taxes the grower for what income is made after their over regulation.

THIS is not about a career move or a legacy or a steppingstone to a higher of ce for me. This election is about YOU and ME working together to change the direction of this county, to protect our quality of life, our families, our county. To ME this campaign is not a “grassroots effort”, it is OUR effort to change the current condition of OUR COUNTY. I will always be someone to talk to about your problems and figure out solutions together. If you are having a problem with the county, I would like to know about it to WORK TOGETHER to reach a solution.

With your help and concern WE can do this together. I am ready, with your help and counsel, to take on this task.

You can follow me on Facebook, my free newsleter “The Miner’s Inch, A Melodramatic Comedy available periodically at Diamond Springs Hotel & Colina Del Oro, Forester’s in Camino and Sportsman’s Hall in Pollock Pines.

There is also my website “Theminersinch.us” where you can read my thoughts and opinions as well as other sections of interest including pictures of our history and always pictures of cars since I am a car person.

I may post with your permission your problem with no names and ask others for their answers to your problem. This is a joint effort to help all of US. I look forward to your endorsement on March 5, 2024

Brian N. DeBerry

“Together we can change a county!!!”

“The

The real root of the homeowners insurance crisis in CA

My o ce recently received a call from a lifelong California woman currently living in El Dorado County whose homeowners insurance has already doubled this year.

“Kelly” is struggling to make ends meet and the rise in her insurance costs is the last straw, forcing her to now consider joining the millions of other Californians who have already made the move out of state.

Kelly’s story is not uncommon. Every week, my o ce receives calls from constituents frustrated with limited access to a ordable homeowners insurance. Whether it’s the rising cost, being forced onto the FAIR plan or lack of access, California’s insurance market is not working for Californians.

Legislators knew this issue was growing worse years ago, and so did Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara. So much so that last September, Gov. Gavin Newsom, a member of Lara’s own party, issued an executive order for Lara to take “prompt regulatory action” with the goal of stabilizing California’s marketplace. It didn’t work, or at least not fast enough for many of my constituents who, it is estimated, may not see relief until 2026 if at all.

California’s susceptibility to wildfires and other catastrophic risks places the state and its residents in a unique situation. My constituents in both El Dorado and Placer counties know these risks well since much of the area contains vast stretches of wildland and natural vegetation that interface with residential communities. The threat of wildfire destruction looms year after year along with the likelihood of increased insurance claims related to property damage.

Due to the insurance commissioner’s inaction and the Legislature’s lack of urgency, we now have insurance companies struggling with increased construction costs and forecasts of substantially greater catastrophic exposure. These costs have led to over half of the state’s largest insurance providers leaving the state altogether. Homeowners are now pushed in many cases to the only insurance option left — California’s FAIR Plan. This plan is hardly “fair,” considering it often o ers reduced coverage with higher premiums. Because of this growing concern, I requested to join the Assembly Insurance Committee.

As a new member this year of the California State Assembly Insurance Committee, I am committed to exploring all solutions to ensure that homeowners can still access a ordable, comprehensive insurance. The rapidly increasing

The Not So Weekly Daley

Letters to the Editor

Better together

EDITOR:

The local hospital and clinics in El Dorado County provide the same terrific treatment, and compassionate care to all patients. Please, if you are in need of mental health services or medical services, do not hesitate to to ask for help. If the first door doesn’t open, keep seeking, because a soul that cries out for help is a soul worth saving.

El Dorado County is a community that values human life. All lives matter. The nurses, doctors, clinicians and medical support sta who work and live in our county are healthcare heroes providing the best possible support and appropriate course of action. If you are in pain or crisis, please reach out.

As a resident of El Dorado County, you matter. You are not alone. There are medical and mental health sta eager to be of assistance.

We are a loving community. And if you happen to see a neighbor in need, don’t be afraid to say the following words: “How can I help?” Sometimes just one kind word can be life changing. El Dorado County, we are better together. FRANCISCO U. RODRIGUEZ Placerville

A necessary response

EDITOR:

Iwould like to respond to Terri Elderd’s letter published Feb. 5 in the MD. In the letter,

Ms. Elderd suggests Jan 6 was Nancy Pelosi’s fault. She alleges President Trump suspected violence on Jan. 6 and requested 10,000 troops to be posted at the Capitol that day. However, Speaker Pelosi denied that request because she and the Democrats wanted a riot.

Ms. Elderd, I hate to bust your bubble but that is just not true. Firstly, neither the speaker of the House nor the majority leader in the Senate can grant or deny a request from the president, the commander-in-chief, for troops. If the president wants 10,000 troops to protect the Capitol, he/she gets 10,000 troops, end of discussion.

Speaker Pelosi did not even have the authority to request troops or troops would have arrived at the Capitol much earlier. That request had to come from the president. There are videotapes of her frantically calling everyone she could think of to urge the President to send troops. It would take four hours for help to arrive and that was only after the president knew the riot would ultimately fail to stop the count.

Rep. Loudermilk has been in Congress long

enough to know the truth. He knows very well Speaker Pelosi did not deny troops. It’s all about politics and clouding the truth.

Secondly, why would the Democrats want a riot? They were there to count the Electoral College votes to make it o cial that Biden was the presidentelect. Why would the Democrats want to stop that from happening? That makes absolutely no sense.

In his testimony, Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller stated President Trump did enquire about having troops available, but he never made a formal request. Miller also testified that the inquiry from President Trump about troops was not about protecting the Capitol, but about protecting himself and protesters.

In the mountain of documents, thousands of pages of testimony (mostly from Republicans) and thousands of hours of videotape, there is nothing that even hints at Speaker Pelosi’s or any other Democrats’ involvement. None! The evidence is irrefutable. Former President Trump and fellow co-conspirators had carefully planned the events on Jan. 6 and encouraged violence that morning to prevent Congress from counting the Electoral College votes and thus preventing President Biden from taking o ce.

Unless the Supreme Court grants former President Trump immunity, which is extremely unlikely even for this very conservative court, he will go to court. The American people will then see the depth and breadth of the conspiracy led by Trump to stop the peaceful transfer of power and allow him to stay in power despite losing the election. This e ort will be led by Jack Smith, a lifelong Republican.

You can dislike President Biden, you can dislike Pelosi, you can have conservative values and you can be a proud Republican, but to believe Pelosi or any other democratic member of Congress had anything to do with Jan. 6 is to deny reality and the truth.

SCOTT TAYLOR

Placerville

Rules are rules

EDITOR:

The local news reported a single mother was kicked out of the temporary housing where she and her children were staying. Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg said someone has to commit multiple serious violations before being forced to leave. Then the lady who was evicted was interviewed. She came o indignant and said her rights were being violated and who

Thoughts on a scrambled, southern kind of crazy

Aquick scan of the headlines in the past week or so could be a serious jolt to the senses for some of us. Learning that an embryo is actually a human child, according to Alabama’s Supreme Court, was kind of shocking. Evidently, it has also been quite a disturbing blow to folks who may need in-vitro fertilization procedures in order to have a chance at creating a family.

CHRIS DALEY

I’m not in that demographic, never was, but I surely can empathize with those who are. I am in a demographic that thinks the Alabama Supreme Court is o its rocker right along with the state’s legislature and a majority of its voters, it would seem.

I’m also in the demographic that is not only weary of but genuinely afraid of the white Christians (supremacist and nationalist-types) who have acquired so much political clout over the past decade.

When they aren’t saving the embryos, they’re saving us from all those books that make us want to change our gender by Tuesday, if not sooner.

Watergate taught us to “follow the money” to determine who might profit from banning those books and who benefits from saving billions of embryos. And what does that benefit look like? A huge saving of souls?

Maybe, but pretty hard to quantify.

The recognition that they have done their best to serve their fellow man

Unfortunately,

one person’s notion of what’s a good deed may be someone else’s notion of power and control if not outright coercion.

and their god? No doubt there must be a lot of that motivating them.

Unfortunately, one person’s notion of what’s a good deed may be someone else’s notion of power and control if not outright coercion.

Also unfortunately, while going out of their way to save the embryos and non-viables, many are completely willing to let Russia slaughter millions of Ukrainians, actual fully developed human beings in most cases. Their “pro-life” self-description then, in practice, looks to be a couple bricks shy of a philosophical load.

In a conflicting vein, many of these good-deed-doers traditionally have been fiercely anti-communist and have fought or at least supported

wars against the godless communists everywhere. Yet, they now appear to love the most powerful and dangerous communists in the world — Kim Jong Un, Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. Those names just do not belong in the same sentence as the term “pro-life.”

One final “unfortunately” leads many of these so-called pro-lifers straight to the Republican Party’s foremost “pro-lifer.” And while he has tried to distance himself somewhat from the embryo fray lately, he likely expects to benefit from the ensuing drama in the near future, say November.

Chris Daley is a biweekly columnist for the Mountain Democrat.

■ See PATTERSON, page

■ See LETTERS, page A5

JOE PATTERSON

Superfan Continued from A3

wore during a series of bank robberies. Investigators also found a Barstool Sportsbook betslip for $20,000, dated Nov. 19, 2022; a FanDuel betslip for $4,000, dated Dec. 1, 2022; and letters from Community America Credit Union related to his deposits of $20,000 and $50,000 on May 2, 2022.

Babudar also admitted that he committed, or attempted to commit, nine robberies of banks and credit unions in addition to the two to which he is pleading guilty. Those crimes, including two bank robberies committed while Babudar was a fugitive from justice, will be considered relevant conduct at the time of his sentencing.

Other banks robbed were located in Omaha, Neb.; West Des Moines, Iowa; Nashville, Tenn.; Savage, Minn.; Apple Valley, Minn.; and Clive, Iowa.

On Dec. 16, 2022, he was finally caught in Oklahoma after robbing the Tulsa Teachers Federal Credit Union.

After Babudar’s arrest in Oklahoma he was released on bond in February 2023.

Months earlier, Babudar had placed two winning bets at the Argosy Casino in Alton, Ill. On June 10, 2022, Babudar bet $5,000 that Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes II would win the Most Valuable Player at Super Bowl LVII, which would pay out $45,000 should that occur. Babudar also bet $5,000 that the Kansas City Chiefs would win Super Bowl LVII, which would pay out $55,000 should that occur. When the Kansas City Chiefs won the Super Bowl on Feb. 12, 2023, and Mahomes won the Most Valuable Player award, Babudar

Crossword

won $100,000. Argosy Casino mailed Babudar a $100,000 check in early March 2023.

Days later, Babudar cut his ankle monitor and fled from Oklahoma. According to court documents, Babudar used his gambling winnings to purchase a vehicle in Henderson, Nev., and evade law enforcement until his arrest in Sacramento July 7, 2023.

While in Nevada he hit the Heritage Bank in Sparks, Nev., June 8, 2023, for $1,100.

Making his way into El Dorado County, on July

3, 2023, Babudar stole $950 from the U.S. Bank in El Dorado Hills. Babudar entered the bank wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt, a Covid-19 mask and a yellow reflective vest. Babudar showed a note to the U.S. Bank teller that was composed on his cell phone, which demanded money from the teller.

Babudar has been detained in federal custody without bond since his arrest.

Under the terms of Babudar’s plea agreement, he is subject to a sentence of up to 50 years in federal prison without parole, with the parties agreeing to recommend that the sentences imposed for each count run concurrent to one another. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 10, 2024, after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

Friday, March 1, 2024

Patterson Continued from A4

costs, combined with the transition to the FAIR Plan, have created a financial burden for our community that is unsustainable for families. With the growing trend of Californians and businesses, both large and small, fleeing the state, something must be done now.

The Legislature has refused to deal with the underlying issue in this home insurance crisis — the devastating wildfires harming our communities and driving out insurance providers. California homeowners cannot wait for relief and need immediate change. This begins by attacking the root of the problem, the wildfires, by shifting from fire suppression to fire prevention. Years of inadequate forest management have left overgrown forests with dry fuel. Last year I introduced AB 1554, a bill to expedite forest clean up by reducing ridiculous bureaucratic delays. Most exemption bills were not even given a hearing, but I was able to present our case to the Assembly Natural Resources Committee. I expressed the grave concerns of our district and although the legislation was not approved, I gained support from both sides of the aisle. This year, I have introduced a new bill, AB 2639, laserfocused on wildfire mitigation.

I am committed to implementing real solutions to address the root causes of rising premiums, and I urge Commissioner Lara to do the same. It is critical that we protect our land and restore health to the insurance market so that families can safely live in beautiful California without having to worry about access or cost of their homeowners insurance.

Assemblymember Joe Patterson represents California’s 5th Assembly District.

Letters Continued from A4

was going to take care of her now?

There, lies the problem. What does society do with children whose parents are incapable of taking care of themselves? I’m sure it’s me and my ignorance, but what do the powers that be do with the people who have no desire to live by rules set to them?

Maybe someone can explain it to me.

KEN STEERS Cameron Park

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Announcements

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

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

AMERICAN LEGION POST 119

welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org

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

LEARN & PLAY CRIBBAGE

Cribbage is a fun, fast paced game that will surely keep you on your toes! **All skill levels **Learn to play by ACC Rules (American Cribbage Congress) **Beginner instruction available **Compete in weekly Cribbage tournaments. Call 916-7684452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at Moni Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

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

DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–

Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.

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

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Cindy 805-540-8654.

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. For more information, call (530) 622-1180.

Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm.

SENIOR PEER COUNSELING

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

TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY

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

D’backs squeak by in first round

Malachi Parker

Staff writer

The Union Mine Diamondbacks pushed through the first round of state playoffs, defeating the University Prep Panthers 66-61 Tuesday, Feb. 27.

The first round is where the Diamondbacks have fallen short the last few seasons, but this year they are finally over the hump.

At halftime it was 36-35; with Diamondbacks barely in the lead, whatever was said in the locker room during halftime helped the team gain momentum.

“We are a really good defensive team but we have these spurts where we are just not there,” Union Mine head coach Ryan Williams said. “The message was we have to play that level of defense for the next 16 minutes and we’ll be fine.”

The message was received as the Union Mine started the third quarter on a 17-2 scoring run and held a lead as large as 16 points.

But University Prep wasn’t going down easy.

“We have a hard time sometimes taking that counter punch,” Williams said.

When the Panthers went on their run

EDHCSD Continued from A1

it seemed the Diamondbacks had no answer for anything as their 16-point lead was cut to 9 by the end of the third quarter.

The Panthers continued to cause problems for the Diamondbacks in the final frame, forcing them into missed shots and turnovers. All their efforts paid dividends as they slimmed the Diamondbacks’ lead to 1 point with just under a minute left in the game.

In the next possession for the Diamondbacks the ball ended up in the hands of senior guard Hayden Otte,

at this point in time, I do not appear to be getting the legal support I would expect from the board’s legal counsel,” she said.

Hannaman suggested the board provide separate legal counsel for her and Ferry and warned directors who have yet to be targeted that they could be next if the district continues to allow such “anonymous harassment.”

“I also need to express grave concern that the anonymous person also appears to have hacked into my CSD emails or that someone possibly inside the CSD has leaked them,” she continued. “As a citizen, this is very concerning to me that someone could get access to our email so easily and I would like IT to look into this immediately.

“It is sad to see this board become so petty,” Hannaman added. “It feels like this is becoming a hostile environment for those of us who are just trying to do good by actually being responsive and meeting and talking with those in our community. This is a volunteer job and while I knew there would be ups and downs, no one should be subject to harassment, bullying and intimidation.”

Hannaman made a motion to grant her and Ferry their own legal counsel; both voting aye when the time came. Board President Noelle Mattock and Directors Ben Paulsen and Michael Martinelli voted against the action.

After the motion failed, Paulsen said he agreed with Ferry and Hannaman about the anonymous complaints getting out of control but thought hiring separate legal counsel is “premature.”

“We’re all being affected by it,” Paulsen assured, adding that he’d like to see the district adjust its complaint policy. “Anonymous complaints don’t hold weight because it’s obviously being abused and not working in the manner that I believe it was meant for.”

“I agree with what’s been said,” added Martinelli. “I mean, I’ve always been a person that tries to do the right thing given the information in front of me.”

Mattock also said she has been the target of anonymous complaints, telling the audience she had complaints mailed to her home address.

“I’ve been sued by a resident for a decision the entire board has made,” she continued, “and then I’ve also had an anonymous complaint waged at my employers, stating that I’m doing the CSD’s business on my work time, which couldn’t be further from the truth.

“It’s upsetting and sad that it has devolved this far, that we are receiving so many anonymous complaints and it isn’t just limited to the two,” Mattock added. “I know how it felt when I received those and so I completely understand but I didn’t seek to have additional counsel. I had to represent myself in court.”

LAKE LEVELS

who drilled a 3-pointer from the top of the key with the shot clock winding down. That triple would put the Diamondbacks up by 4 and senior guard Nate Sweet would add one more free throw for good measure to float the Diamondbacks past their state playoff drought.

All five starters scored in double figures for the Diamondbacks, who were set to be back at it Thursday night, Feb. 29, hosting Foothill High School out of Shasta County.

EDH resident Steve Gutierrez urged the board and EDHCSD legal counsel David Tyra to initiate an investigation into possible leaks within the EDHCSD. He also recommended the board receive Whistleblower Protection Act training and had some harsh words for those anonymously complaining: “These intimidation tactics won’t work. So if the anonymous person is watching or listening right now, let me just say this: hiding behind a tree of anonymousness will not work.”

EDH resident Chuck King, president of Citizens in Support of El Dorado Hills, called the situation “an absolute embarrassment.”

“You guys are just so far off track in so many different things,” King said. “You’ve gone through this crap with Kevin Loewen and his two jobs. And now you’ve got anonymous complaints that are not getting thrown in the garbage can the way they should be.

“These two people are good people,” he said of Ferry and Hannaman. “They don’t do anything wrong. They try to get out and they try to make CSD a popular entity, and they try to do what’s right for this community.”

King went on to hurl sharp criticism at Tyra.

“Your legal counsel is supposed to be keeping you guys out of trouble, not putting you in it when these things are happening,” he asserted. “He’s the guy that’s supposed to say, ‘No, this shouldn’t be happening.’”

King closed by suggesting the board replace its counsel and advising Directors Mattock and Paulsen that they are on thin ice with voters.

“I don’t see how anybody in this community (is) going to support either one of you when it comes time for elections in November,” he said. “You might be better off to just go ahead and go now.”

EDH resident George Steed echoed that sentiment, sharing during public comment that he would like to see Mattock and Paulsen resign immediately.

“This organization needs a regime change and it needs a correction in action,” Steed said. “You two are at the center of these issues. You need to step down.”

Parker off the hook?

One matter at the heart of the public’s discontent is the EDHCSD’s apparent failure to hold Parker Development to its agreement to build a turnkey park on 12.5 acres in the Serrano development. The property, which is now part of the much-larger Bass Lake Park project, has been deeded to the EDHCSD and El Dorado County is holding approximately $3.5 million in collected Mello-Roos funds for park construction.

Calling the decision “a gift of public funds,” members of the public have for years questioned current and past board members’, as well as former general manager Kevin Loewen’s, actions related to the park. Director Ferry has also brought up the issue several times, arguing that the CSD gave up millions of dollars — total construction cost of a turnkey park is estimated at $10 million to $12

million — without making that apparent to the public.

“It’s unconscionable that you guys would fight us on the idea that there’s a gift here. It’s unconscionable that anybody would suggest that Bill Parker and company are shrewd business people, and they made a great deal for themselves and a bad deal for us,” EDH resident Dean Getz told the board Feb. 8.

Brown Act troubles

The EDHCSD board and staff recently received a letter from the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office confirming an investigation into “some past actions” by the district’s board members and Loewen. The letter notes the investigation has uncovered apparent Brown Act violations.

“We are concerned not only about the serial meetings that appeared to have occurred back in late 2020 when it looks like the board of directors approved Kevin Loewen ‘providing consulting to other public agencies (and other businesses),’ but there are also concern(s) that the lack of training and understanding of the Brown Act may lead to ongoing current processes in 2024 that may fall short of this important law,” the letter states.

To bolster public confidence that the board is in compliance with the law, DA officials advise the current board members and interim general manager to receive proper Brown Act training.

Loewen investigation

Several speakers at the Feb. 8 meeting noted the district has yet to release any information about the independent investigation into former GM Loewen, who resigned in mid-December 2023.

At the Nov. 9 board meeting Mattock confirmed the district had hired “an outside law firm separate from the one which the district legal counsel is a member of to conduct an independent investigation into the general manager’s conduct.”

This announcement came four months after El Dorado Hills residents raised concerns about possible ethics and contract violations related to Loewen’s professional activities outside the district and his relationship with a CSD consultant.

“Now that Kevin has resigned, we’re hopeful that the status and information can be updated regularly to the public, including the total taxpayer funds used to pay legal fees for the investigation,” resident and District 1 supervisor candidate Linda Campbell told the directors. “It would be helpful to know that policy checkpoints have been put in place to prevent conflicts of interest in future contract negotiations and evaluations.”

The next EDHCSD Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, with closed session beginning at 5:30 p.m. and open session at 6:30 p.m. at the Norm Rowett Pavilion, 1021 Harvard Way in El Dorado Hills. The meeting is also broadcast on Zoom. For more information and to view the agenda visit eldoradohillscsd.org/about/ board_of_directors.

Union Mine sophomore forward Isaac Zmerzlikar looks to finish a shot at the rim after getting by University Prep defenders in the first round state playoff game Tuesday night in the Snake Pit.

Mountain Democrat photo by Malachi Parker

Trojans power by Panthers

The Oak Ridge Trojans girls basketball team won their first-round state playoff matchup 47-35 against the Priory Panthers Tuesday, Feb. 27.

The Trojans come into the playoffs as the No. 3 seed in Division 1, and although their section title hopes came up short, a state championship is well within reach for this talented group.

“This is a good group and they work hard,” Oak Ridge head coach Steve White said. “The effort and the energy is there.”

White has mentioned his team needing to find a third scorer to help put up points and they got that in this game with three girls scoring in double figures.

Senior guard Jessica Crannel led the team with 11 points, while junior

guard Liv Yergensen and freshman guard Leah Harris both contributed 10 points.

“The goal from the beginning of the year was to get back to the state playoffs and make a good run at that title,” White said. “We are very excited about the win, but we need to keep it rolling and get another victory.”

Last year the Trojans missed the state playoffs after falling to Antelope in the second round of section playoffs, but now that they are back they seem more determined than ever.

The Trojans were scheduled to return to the hardwood Thursday, Feb. 29, to host the Archbishop Riordan Crusaders out of San Francisco.

The Crusaders come in as the No. 11 seed, with a 17-10 overall record, and a first-round upset win over No. 6-ranked Acalanes Dons.

n

n

n

n

ARIES

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). There’s much coming to you inside a package labeled “work.” Love, friendship, respect, adventure and fulfillment are just some of the many perks in this package deal. So it’s a good thing you signed on to do a little more than usual.

TAURUS

of it. This could happen with minimal awareness on your part, and there’s no shame in the imitation, as you’re putting your own spin on things.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Prioritizing gets tricky because truly important things go masquerading as ordinary and simple aspects of the day. The one to tackle first will bring you back to the basics of who you are, why you’re here and what you want.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Your reactive mind has served you well on many occasions so it’s only natural to relax into those natural responses. But you’re also trying to be different in some ways. Today you’ll press the pause button and consider different manners of reacting.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Think ahead, make a plan and hold your dearest intentions at the forefront of your mind. Your ability to shut out distractions and focus intently for many hours at a time will win you a prime position or assignment.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). What you think you should be doing and what you are really doing may be two different things. When you’re not on track, it doesn’t mean you are misbehaving; it just means you’re capable of more.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You have the courage to move forward with a good plan, but the current one isn’t passing muster. Better to go back to the drawing board than to move forward with ideas that won’t take you where you want to go.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Stress contributes to your decision-making process. You’re unlikely to repeat a series of actions that causes you anxiety even for a big reward.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). There are those who would lead you to believe that what you’re trying to accomplish is complicated, when in fact it’s pretty simple. You’ve already nailed the hardest part -- being brave enough to take action.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ll be caught up in dreams of what you could create with another person. Technically, you could create these same things alone, or with someone else entirely. Be open minded. In a sense, you’re a producer, waiting for the perfect cast.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Sometimes objectivity is easily obtained, sometimes not. Knowing this, you won’t expect another person to abandon attachments and see things from your point of view even though you’re able to do so without effort.

The

Annual Stand Up For MORE Comedy Night will be in partnership with the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce

o er wonderful entertainment along with a delicious meal catered by John Sanders. Shake o the stress of the week with this hilarious, fundraising showcase. Our Headliner, the hilarious Dennis Blair, who has been described as a Renaissance man. He is an accomplished screenwriter, award-winning songwriter, and comedic actor. Yet he is probably best known for the caustic observations and musical satires of his live comedy performances. Also featured is the amazingly talented Derrick Leonard, whose laser-sharp humor will have you in stitches!

Admission: $60 per person; $100 per couple

Tickets available at: MORE, 399 Placerville Drive

Online at: www.morerehab.org

soon be flowing into the streets and sidewalks of Broadway, as the city has two projects focused on improving infrastructure in the area that are both anticipated to begin in 2024.

The federally-funded Broadway Sidewalks Project would increase the walkability of the roadway, adding sidewalks to fill gaps in designated pedestrian spaces along the street between Mosquito and Schnell School roads. The project would also add sidewalks along the greater portion of the north side of the street and improve gutters and storm drains. The project was originally expected to begin last June but had to be put up for re-bidding in October.

The Broadway Maintenance Project was awarded to Doug Veerkamp General Engineering by Placerville City Council Jan. 23 for the amount of $4,926,039.80. The council’s decision was also a rejection of a bid protest from B&M Builders, which had complained only one of the bid proposals was read aloud in a previous meeting; the city attorney responded to the protest and claims multiple city sta attest all three proposals received were read aloud.

The maintenance project will be a boon for the shocks and axles of local vehicles that have to travel along Broadway, as the plan includes a repaving of the road between Mosquito Road and Schnell School Road intersections. The maintenance will also relocate utilities, replace water distribution systems, install broadband infrastructure and expand the sewer main to 18 inches.

Some elements of the maintenance project, such as relining pipes, proved more expensive than anticipated, with the lowest bid costing more than double what the city engineering department projected. Those parts of the project have been moved o the docket but may be bundled with repairing a sinkhole on Point View Drive for future project bidding. Much of the funding for the maintenance project will come from money produced by measures H and L.

“(This project) is important to improve the economic the development of that Broadway corridor,” council member Nicole Gotberg said before voting in favor of the maintenance project contract.

Entries

Student artists share their Creative Fusion

News release

Art on the Divide Cooperative Gallery welcomes students from the Golden Sierra Junior Senior High School Art Program who will show their art during the month of March. The community is invited to join the students and their instructor Erica Phillips for a reception at the gallery, 2-4 p.m. Saturday, March 9.

The GSJSHS show — Creative Fusion — is a collaboration of 2D and 3D art chosen by GSJSHS art instructor Phillips. The art mediums range from drawings to paintings in various mediums and extend into ceramics. The students have expressed their abilities to evoke emotion from viewers and showcased their creative individuality through strong compositions of realism, anime and whimsical genres of art.

The

for more information.

The Sacramento Fine Arts Center in Carmichael hosts Celebrating the Figure through March 16. For more information visit sacfinearts. org.

Watercolor Artists of Sacramento Horizons is now accepting entries for the 46th annual member n See KNOW, page B3

The GSJSHS Art Program offers a variety of classes and opportunities for students in seventh through 12th grade at all skill levels. Courses developing techniques, skill and knowledge range from 3D courses in ceramics and free form to 2D courses in drawing, painting and multimediums. All courses incorporate art history, art as therapy, color theory with elements of art and principles of design, techniques and tools.

GSJSHS students have had the opportunity to show their artwork through a growing community, galleries and school art shows, where their achieved art skills have been recognized. It is the mission of the GSJSHS Art Department to educate and raise awareness of the abilities of the talented art students.

Creative Fusion will be on display March 1-31 at Art on the Divide Cooperative Gallery 6295 Main St., Georgetown. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday.

“Sisters” by Hailey Hein

Still life realism graphite on paper by Aubrey Stapleton Ceramic floral

Olde Coloma Theatre prepares for a new season

El Dorado County is home to one of the few remaining melodrama theaters

Kat Mendenhall

Mountain Democrat correspondent

Olde Coloma Theatre has announced the 52nd season of performances and the schedule for auditions.

The theater is one of the few remaining melodrama theaters in America, offering real old-time performances that include a cast of local actors of all ages performing along with great piano accompaniment. Tickets are affordable and the entertaining shows offer a great opportunity for young people and children to experience live theater.

Auditions for the first show of the new season will take place at 6 p.m. March 11 & 13. A little talent and a desire to perform is all one needs to try out. No preparation or experience is necessary. Just show up and be ready to read out loud.

In addition to actors, the theater can always use volunteers who have an interest in stage operations, concessions, makeup, hair, grant writing, fundraisers, videographer/photographer, sewing/mending, music, set building, carpentry and groundskeeping.

Maggie’s

OCT’s next open house takes place noon to 3 p.m. April 13. This is an excellent chance to see the historical building originally constructed for the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition in San Francisco. It was located on Treasure Island and then moved in 1941 and given new life as barracks for California Division of Forestry rangers. The building was then scheduled to be destroyed in 1968 until Olde Coloma Theatre founder June Scott campaigned and lobbied the state. All her hard work paid off when then-Gov. Ronald Reagan sold June the building for $1. The theater opened its doors in 1972.

The schedule of performances for the 52nd season includes “She’s In His Line of Fire” or “The Biggest Shot in Coloma,” May 3 to June 9; “The Whirling Dervish of Coloma” or “Ladies, Gentleman and Others,” July 5 to Aug. 11; 2024 Volunteer Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 24; “A Werewolf’s Tale” or “Hilda’s Haunted Hilltop,” Sept. 27 to Oct. 27; and “Mrs. Waldecott and the Christmas Spirits” or “The Coloma Christmas Speck-tacular,” Nov. 22 to Dec. 22.

The theater is located at 380 Monument Road, Coloma. Reservations can be made by calling (530) 626-5282. More information can be found at oldecolomatheatre.com or visit the theater’s Facebook page.

Courtesy photo

Olde Coloma Theatre thespians take the stage in their 2023 Halloween production.

During a recent El Dorado County appearance by Fire & Grace & Ash, the dynamic trio also performed at Gold Oak Elementary School. The student assembly was part of the Student Outreach Program of the El Dorado County Community Concert Association.

The Feb. 13 show was in addition to the evening presentation to the public at Union Mine High School.

The Student Outreach Program aims to keep quality music alive for future generations in El Dorado County and brings live, interactive musical performances to engage, enrich and educate K-12 students during the school day on their campuses at no cost to the schools.

With these visits students are exposed to a variety of musical genres from various cultures; introduced to a variety of musical instruments; and have the opportunity to interact and ask questions with the artists during the assemblies and music class presentations. The school visits are made possible by generous donations from members and sponsors.

EDCCCA — the oldest performing arts organization in El Dorado County — has been bringing world-class entertainment to the greater Placerville area since 1950 and the 2023-24 season is no exception. To learn more about the season visit ElDoradoCommunityConcerts.com.

Know Continued from B1

exhibits. Deadline is 5 p.m. March 20. The show takes place April 2-20. All entries must be submitted online. Visit smarterentry.com/ callsforentry/wash.

The California Museum in Sacramento presents Personal to Political: Celebrating the African American Artists of Paulson Fontaine Press through March 24. For more information visit californiamuseum.org. Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents ABC — 123, Fletcher Benton’s sculptural alphabet through March 24; AI Am I?, artificial intelligence art created by Alexander Reben, through April 28; Drawn to Beauty, a collection of European drawings, through April 28; and Joyce J. Scott: Messages June 23. For tickets and more information visit crockerart.org.

B Street Theatre presents “Cosmo St. Charles is Dead and Someone in This Room Killed Him” through April 7 at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

The Gallery at 48 Natoma presents Abstract Ideas, featuring art by Linda Nunes and Matt Rhoades, through April 18. In the adjacent Community Art Gallery, art from the Children’s Art Classes at the Folsom Art Center is on display through April 11. For more information call call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us.

Shiva Ahmadi: Strands of Resilience is an exhibition of 19 paintings at the Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art at UC Davis, on view through May 6.

March 1

Shadow Ranch Vineyard in Fair Play hosts Girl Scout Cookie wine pairing March 1-3. For reservations visit shadowranch.com/Events.

Tiffany Shiro & Hugh Hoger will perform at 4:20 p.m. followed by Band Beyond Description – Grateful Dead recreation at 8 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Papa Day Blues Band will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

Lantz Lazwell will perform at the Placerville Public House in downtown Placerville, 8-11 p.m. For more information visit placervillepublichouse.com.

Sacramento Theatre Company presents Music in the Mirror, Celebrating Broadway’s Best Dance, March 1-10. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-6722 or visit sactheatre.org.

Sutter Street Theatre presents “Cotton Patch Gospel,” March 1-30. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Sacramento City College’s City Theatre is producing Lynn Nottage’s 2017 Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Sweat,” March 1-17. For tickets and more information visit CityTheatre.net.

March 2

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

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

The Shingle Springs Community Center, 4440 South Shingle Road, hosts a pancake breakfast, 8-11 a.m.

Placerville Friends of the Library hosts a book sale, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. behind the library, 345 Fairlane Court.

Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts Starting Plants from Seeds, 9 a.m. to noon at the Cameron Park Community Center.

Participants are invited to a presentation on the selection and germination of seeds, starting media, containers, growing out, hardening off and transplanting seedlings. Following the presentation, participants will have an opportunity to plant seeds to take home. Seeds and containers are provided; bring clean gloves to participate. Register at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey.cfm?surveynumber=41927.

Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts Kids Class – Grow & Show Your Plant, 9:30 or 10:30 a.m. at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden in Placerville. After learning some basics about parts and needs of plants, children will plant a succulent cutting in a small pot. They can also plant a bean seed in another pot and take the plant home, care for it and watch it grow. Then in June they can enter their plant in the El Dorado County Fair. Register at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=41931.

Crystal Basin Cellars in Camino hosts Oysterfest, 11 a.m. until the last oyster is gone. For tickets and more information visit crystalbasin.com. The Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce and The Vintage Collection Co., 4056 Mother Lode Drive in Shingle

Photo

Know Continued

from

Springs, host a ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m.

Gwinllan Estate in the Fair Play area hosts blending seminars for budding winemakers noon to 4 p.m. March 2, 16 & 23. RSVP for this event by emailing events@gwinllanestate.com or call the winery at (530) 723-2879.

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

El Dorado Friends of the NRA hosts a dinner, games, auctions and fun beginning at 4 p.m. in the Mark D. Forni Building on the El Dorado County Fairgrouns in Placerville. For tickets and more information visit friendsofnra.org/events/eventdetails?eventId=60407.

The El Dorado High School Foundation presents the Blue & White Gala, 5 p.m. at Cold Springs Country Club in Placerville. Enjoy, dinner, drinks, music and auctions. For tickets and more information visit tinyurl.com/blueandwhitegala2024.

Soroptimist International of Folsom and El Dorado Hills presents A Night to Remember, a 5:30 p.m. fundraiser featuring an auction, raffle, music, food and wine tasting and more at the Folsom Community Center. For tickets and more information visit sifedh.com.

Brass quintet Curvd Aire with special guest

Courtney Daniels will perform at 7 p.m. at the Gold Trail Grange Ballroom in Coloma. Tickets are available at goldtrailgrange.com and at the door.

Spunj and Ryder Thieves Trio will perform at 7 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Sutter Creek Theatre presents Coco Montoya at

7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.

The Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra launches the second half of its season with a performance of European masterworks at the Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento. For tickets and more information visit sacramentochoral.org.

The annual Business of Art Symposium, a professional development event for artists, is set 8 a.m to 5:30 p.m. at the Sierra College Nevada County campus in Grass Valley. Attendees will participate in sessions focusing on trends and challenges in the art industry. For more information and to register visit nevadacountyarts.org.

A Compás Flamenco will perform at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

March 3

The El Dorado Hills Town Center Farmers Market takes place year round, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Sunday. Wander behind Nibblers and Trek Bicycle to discover a cornucopia of delights, where local area farms showcase an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. Explore stalls brimming with homemade treasures including jams and cheeses, as well many handmade creations.

Miraflores Winery hosts Soup Sundays through March 31. Enjoy a complimentary cup of soup while wine tasting at the Placerville tasting room.

Face in a Book in El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts an Easter craft for adults, making decoupage eggs, 1-2:30 p.m. For more information call (916) 941-9401 or visit getyourfaceinabook.com.

John Voelz will perform at 3 p.m. at HWY 50

Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

The Sacramento Symphonic Winds continues its season with Folk Songs and Music for Kings and Queens, 2:30 p.m. at the El Camino High School Center for the Arts. For more information visit sacwinds.org.

Mother Lode Friends of Music presents TriMusica, a free chamber music concert, 3 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theater. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.

Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “Twelfth Night,” March 3 through April 1. For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre.org.

March 5

The purpose of the Widowed Persons Club is to provide a support group for widowed men and women of all ages and provide a wide range of social activities through which they have an opportunity to make new friends and find a new direction in their lives. Regular breakfasts are held every Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. at Denny’s in Placerville. For those interested in joining or reservations don’t hesitate to get in touch with Glenda at (530) 2958374 or Nancy at (530) 919-8276.

The El Dorado Hills Garden Club welcomes Jan Keahey to discuss herbs and lavender, 1 p.m. at the EDH Library. All are welcome.

March 7

The El Dorado Community Foundation has partnered with Sierra Business Council to bring a brainstorming workshop to the West Slope of El Dorado County on the topic of creating sustainable

and equitable jobs within the El Dorado County region, 2-4 p.m. at Hidden Star Orchards in Camino. Register on Eventbrite.com.

The Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a mixer, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Kniesel’s Collision, 4031 West Chaparral Drive in Shingle Springs.

The El Dorado Union High School District hosts the annual Career Expo, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Union Mine High School, 6530 Koki Lane in El Dorado. This event is intended for high schoolers and young adults searching for career inspiration. Along with the many industry leaders that will be exhibiting the fascinating work they do in the community, there will also be a job fair where attendees have the opportunity to be interviewed and hired on the spot.

Quattlebaum featuring James Rossi will perform at 7 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Oak Ridge High School Drama presents “Murder on the Orient Express,” March 7-9 and March 14-16 at the high school theater in El Dorado Hills. For tickets and more information visit ortab.org/ services-7-1.

Youth Art Month takes over Switchboard Gallery in downtown Placerville. Check out El Dorado High School student artists’ works March 7-31.

The Mills Station Arts & Culture Center in Rancho Cordova presents Fire, Fury and Resilience, socially conscience work of Betty LaDuke, March 7-23. For more information visit rcmacc.org.

Bourgeois-bohemian? Nope. He is a sweet simple pooch looking for a nice family. Brown, Border

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GARDEN EVA (A157614)

This ‘Barefoot Contessa’ is a cute petite F Calico DSH, looking as her name says, for a garden gig. 8mo.

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Fosters

PUPPY & KITTEN

The Wood Brothers’ musical experiment continues

GFor the better part of two decades, The Wood Brothers have cemented their reputation as freethinking songwriters, road warriors and community builders, creating a catalog of diverse music and a loyal audience who’ve grown alongside them through the years.

That evolution continues with “Heart is the Hero,” the band’s eighth studio album that was recorded entirely analog to 16-track tape. The album marks a departure from the digital realm, favoring a return to the vintage style of production that inspired countless classics. The album presents an acousticdriven landscape that pulsates with vibrant melodies.

“We love records that come from the era of less tracks and more care,” co-founder Oliver

Wood said, explaining the band’s decision to record using analog technology,. “Tape gives you limitations that force you to be creative and intentional. You don’t look at the music on a screen; you listen to it and learn to focus on the feeling of the performance.” Throughout the album, the band’s performances are complemented by visceral storytelling and exceptional songwriting, hallmarks that have

elevated The Wood Brothers to Grammynominated status within the American roots music landscape.

The Wood Brothers are always thinking, “How can we make this sound like us, but not like something we’ve already done?” Oliver said. “Sometimes, the only way to do that is to get weird.”

Perhaps that’s to be expected from a group whose willingness to experiment has earned acclaim from Rolling

Film festival hands out honors

News release

The 22nd annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival in Nevada City and Grass Valley has come to a close and the following awards were give to the best submissions:

“Farming While

Black”

Best of the Festival and John de Graaf Environmental Award

The film that best reflects elements we admire and hold important: environmental activism, compelling storyline, hope and passionate, effective filmmaking. In 1910, Black farmers owned 14% of all American farmland. Over the intervening decades, that number fell below 2%, the result of racism, discrimination and dispossession. The film chronicles Black farmers’ efforts to reclaim their agricultural heritage. Collectively, their work significantly impacts sustainable agriculture and food justice movements.

“Out There: A National Parks Story”

Peoples Choice Award

The film chosen by

audience members their award-winner choice. A young filmmaker sets out on a 10,000mile exploration of the national parks with his childhood friend during the centennial year of the formation of the National Park Service. Along the way, they record stories of the people who work in the parks and those who come to enjoy them as part of the rich tapestry of the park system’s history. Between spectacular visuals of the parks and compelling interviews are colorful bits of old maps, posters and travelogues.

“4DWN”

Best in Theme

The film that best represents the 2024 festival theme of Reel Action. The theme pays homage to the festival’s mission to inspire activism and use cinema as a call to action, inviting audiences to learn about the most pressing environmental problems and initiatives anyone can take to improve the natural world and lives around the globe. “4DWN” tells the unconventional and deeply personal story of a South Dallas skatepark whose mission is to change the

lives of everyone who walks through the gate.

The 4DWN skatepark is a resilience hub rooted in skate culture, tackling the challenges of food insecurity and social justice in one of the city’s poorest communities.

“Patrol”

Spirit of Activism

What the festival and SYRCL are all about — people making a difference, speaking truth to power, turning the tide of history.

Illegal cattle ranchers and miners are decimating the IndioMaiz Biological Reserve — one of the last remaining rainforests in Central America. Commodities produced on illegally converted lands are finding their way to unsuspecting consumers in the U.S. and other major markets. The indigenous and Afro-descendent peoples are addressing the threat head-on, fighting back to protect their territory and way of life.

Other award winners

Most Inspiring

Adventure Film: “Soundscape”

Best “Short Short”: n See HONORS, page B8

Stone and NPR, as well as an annual touring schedule of sold-out music halls and theaters on both sides of the

Atlantic. Ask The Wood Brothers, though, and they’ll tell you to expect the unexpected.

“We are never satisfied if we are not searching for new musical recipes,” said Jano Rix, nodding to the uncharted territory that Heart is the Hero covers.

Chris Wood agreed. “We are one of those bands that isn’t easily categorized,” he added. “We know what our strengths are, but we can’t help but push the envelope as well. It’s too much fun.”

The evening will open with Rainbow Girls, a collaboration of songwriters, multiinstrumentalists, vocalists and California natives who spent their first five years touring Europe and

the U.S. as a rock ‘n’ roll band. Since 2016, Erin Chapin, Caitlin Gowdey and Vanessa Wilbourn have returned to their folkier roots. The current trio version of the band highlights their rich harmonies, ageless songwriting and soulful, bluesy sound at its rawest form. With four full-length albums and a string of singles and EPs, these talented musicians claim to be and are truly “a gang of sweet angels punching you in the heart.”

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, March 5, at The Center for the Arts, 314 West Main St. in Grass Valley. For tickets and more details visit thecenterforthearts.org or call (530) 274-8384.

Photo by Shervin Lainez

The Wood Brothers will perform in Grass Valley March 5, showcasing their hits and new music.

Based on the beloved 1988 MGM romcom, Mystic Pizza is a new musical about three working-class

Trailblazing Women of Country: A Tribute to Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly

Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly revolutionized country music and blazed a trail for future generations of female artists. Featuring soloists, Miko Marks, CMT’s 2022 “Next Woman of Country,” and Nashville based singer, Kristina Train, supported by a 5-member all-female band.

Throughout its history, New Orleans has been the point at which sounds and cultures from around the world converge, mingle, and resurface. PHJB has held the torch of New Orleans music aloft for more than 60 years.

Indian states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Punjab.

Singer, composer, actor, and multiGrammy-Award winner, Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums. The Texas-based musician fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel, and blues.

35 smash hits, six decades of stardom, two rock-star husbands, a Grammy, an Oscar, an Emmy… The Cher Show is the Tony Award-winning musical of her story, and it’s packed with so much Cher that it takes three women to play her.

Honors Continued from B5

“Paddle Tribal Waters”

Jury Award: “Jo Jo A Toad Musical”

Jury Award: “Kelp”

Honorable Mention: “Toxic Art”

Honorable Mention: “With The Tide”

Honorable Mention: “Engine

Inside”

Szabo Award: “Groundwork: A

Family Journey into Regenerative Cotton”

Retold” is the only Off-Broadway play to be praised by both Rolling Stone and Christianity Today and hailed as “a joyous triumph” by the New York Times. Sutter Street Theatre’s version is directed and choreographed by Sam Williams with music direction by Connie Mockenhaupt. The show is rated PG for simulated violence.

Showtimes for “Cotton Patch Gospel” are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 4:30 p.m. Sundays, March 1-30, at the theater, 717 Sutter St. in Folsom. For reservations visit SutterStreetTheatre.com or call (916) 353-1001.

Student Filmmaker Award: “Spear, Spatula, Submarine”

Best Children’s Film Award: “By the Sea – Luca! Here comes the Wave!”

Kid’s Honorable Mention: “Brave Girl” Wild & Scenic Film Festival is the largest annual fundraiser for the South Yuba River Citizens League. For more information visit wildandscenicfilmfestival.org.

Photo by David J. Grenier

Tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain is proud to present TISRA (three) with two of India’s finest young musicians, Sabir Khan and Debopriya Chatterjee, showcasing the rich folk and classical traditions of the

Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group

The Cher Show –A New Musical

Preservation Hall Jazz Band

TISRA: Zakir Hussain, Sabir Khan, and Debopriya Chatterjee