Mountain Democrat, Monday, March 18, 2024

Grand Jury finds pilots at risk at Georgetown Airport

“Tonight’s

doing and is

living

its means?” Warren asked at the start of the midyear review. Though certain projections fell short of their marks and the economy as a whole shows signs of slowing, the city is set to close the financial year with a slightly smaller budget than planned.

By some metrics Placerville has shown resiliency that outpaces the state. Though the city’s unemployment rate floats slightly higher than prepandemic figures at 3.6%, the rate remains lower than the state at 5.1% or the county at 4.4%. The city also outperforms the state in terms of sales tax revenue, ranking 37 out of 539 agencies in 2022.

Considering the Bradley-Burns Sales Tax is, according to Warren, the most significant economic indicator, Placerville outperforming the state is good news — the tax accounts for 58.18% of total General Fund revenue. Despite this silver lining, revenues have seen a significant downward trend in the last two financial quarters in 2023, showing an overall cooling of the local economy. Adding to the general trend, the closure of Rite Aid on Placerville Drive and the upcoming closure of O ce Max on Forni Road will mean an estimated $84,000 drop in Bradley-Burns and add-on tax revenue annually. However, Warren expects this loss will not be an issue in the long term.

“We have some new businesses coming into town,

Courtesy photos

A photo of Georgetown Airport in Georgetown taken in November 2023 shows tall trees at the end of Runway 17 that make taking off “an ominous task” for pilots.

The El Dorado County-operated Georgetown Airport is seen from a bird’s eye view.

Barbara Sands

Sept. 10, 1932 – March 3, 2024

Barbara Sands passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Sunday March 3rd. Barbara attended El Dorado High School where she met and married her husband of 67 years, William Sands. They resided in the Diamond Springs area where they raised 4 children and then retired. Barbara was an accomplished seamstress and enjoyed various crafting endeavors throughout the years. In her later years, Barbara was active in Topps, Red Hats and Bunko. She is survived by her 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, please send any donations to Snowline Hospice in Diamond Springs.

Richard Wallace Hill

Sept. 3, 1934 – Dec. 25, 2023

Richard Wallace Hill passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023 at his home, with his children by his side. He was 89 years old.

Richard was born in Salem, Illinois on September 3, 1934 to Raymond and Ginevra Hill. Richard had four older brothers, Eugene, Morris, Charles and Raymond Jr. and an older sister, Patricia. He attended elementary, junior high and high school in Illinois. Richard worked on the loading docks for the railroad during his high school years. He graduated high school in 1952 and moved from Chicago, Illinois to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he lived with his sister and her husband, while attending the University of New Mexico. For a while he worked in construction as a framer/carpenter. At one point he helped his sister and brother-in-law build their home in the Sandia Mountains. He also worked at a Chevron gas station where he learned how to work on cars. He became a lifelong Chevrolet, Volkswagen and Chevron customer.

In 1954 Richard entered into a machinist apprentice program at Sandia National Labs, where he graduated a journeyman machinist. Richard met his wife, Linda, on a blind date arranged by mutual friends. They were married in February 1956. In November 1960, for a 5 cent an hour raise, the couple moved their young family from Albuquerque, NM to Livermore, CA. Richard worked for a short period at Sandia National Labs in Livermore before getting a job at Lawrence Livermore Labs, where he worked for 30 years. During his years at LLNL, Richard held many positions, from machinist to Superintendent of Manufacturing.

Richard had a passion for cars and the outdoors. He loved taking his family on boating, camping, and o road dune buggy trips. He joined the East Bay Hi-Tailers Dune Buggy Club in the late 60’s. He was president at least 2 times during his 10-15 years as a member. He built his own o road dune buggies and enjoyed annual trips through the Rubicon. In the late 70’s he built his own sand rail buggy and enjoyed trips to Pismo Beach and Sand Mountain.

In 1991 Richard and Linda moved to the Placerville/Somerset area, where they lived on 5 acres. During their retirement, they enjoyed trips in their motor home to Arizona, New Mexico, New Orleans, Canada and Washington, DC. Richard had many special projects that kept him busy during his retirement. He rebuilt Volkswagen motors; made a water cooled, flat bed truck out of a Volkswagen bug; and redesigned his 1972 Chevy motor home into a flatbed truck. He was constantly working to take care of his home and 5 acres, right up until the last 16 months of his life.

Richard was preceded in death by: his wife of 67 years, Linda Hill; parents, Raymond and Ginevra Hill; brothers, Morris Hill, Eugene Hill, Charles Hill and Ray Hill Jr.; sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Robert O’Connell; granddaughter, Melissa Wood; daughter-in-law, Leslie Hill; grandsons, Ryan Wood and Jason Bingham.

He is survived by: his children, Cathy (Richard) Wood, Michael Hill, Steven (Margie) Hill; sisterin-law, Terri Tafreshi; seven grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, and one great greatgrandchild.

Our dad, husband, and grandpa, was an amazing, intelligent, man who worked hard his whole adult life. He was a planner, determined, and meticulous in everything he did. We knew we could always count on him if we needed help, had a question, or a problem to solve. He had a great sense of humor. We will miss him very much.

There will be a celebration of his life with family and friends. The date has yet to be determined.

John Lloyd Beaver

Aug. 3, 1959 – Dec. 28, 2023

It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we are sharing the passing of our beloved father, Papa and friend John Beaver on December 28, 2023.

Born on August 3, 1959 at Marshall Hospital in Placerville, California to James “Red” and Esther Beaver. He spent his entire life living in and serving El Dorado County.

John started as an Explorer Scout as a teenager and graduated from Ponderosa High School class of 1977. He started his 34-year Firefighting career in 1977 at the age of 18 with Diamond Springs Fire Department where he promoted to Captain in 1985. His transfer to El Dorado County Fire Department in 1993 is where he retired in 2011 as a Captain Firefighter/Paramedic. During his service, John also worked as an Arson Investigator, Private Investigator, WMD Specialist and a Hazard Material Specialist.

John continued his education, obtaining his AA and BA while working full time and raising his kids as a single father. He was also an avid bicyclist, often making rides across the country on solo and group trips while raising money for di erent charities.

In retirement, John dedicated most of his time to his grandchildren that truly were the light of his life. He was extremely dedicated to his family and cared for his father, James, through his death in 2021. John also continued to pursue his love of art and wood working, making memorial benches as gifts. John joined El Dorado County Sheri s Department as a S.T.A.R. volunteer where he immediately made an impact by helping rescue a fellow volunteer during a car accident.

John was a lifelong baseball fan and enjoyed seeing our local Rivercats team in Sacramento, but more often than not could be found on a soccer field cheering for his granddaughters. He made sure he was at every event, even volunteering at his grandchildren’s schools.

John was passionate about his faith and love. Love of his community, love of servicing and especially love of his family and friends. He was loyal, reliable, and dedicated every day. John was spunky, funny and stubborn. His absence will be forever felt in our community and in our hearts.

John leaves behind his daughter Angella, son Alex and grandchildren Alizsabeth, Aliviea, Ausztyn, Zoey and Wyatt.

A Celebration of life will be held on Thursday April 4th at 1pm at Green Valley Church in Placerville, CA.

Any donations can be made to some of the many Charities John supported; The Firefighters Burn Institute, The National MS Society and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Gail Bruton Furtwangler

Barker

June 26, 1947 – Jan. 16, 2024

Our beloved Gail passed away from cancer on January 16, 2024 in Clio, CA. Gail devoted her career to being a loving and compassionate nurse working at places including Marshall Hospital, Snowline Hospice as its Co-founder, and Placerville Union and Robla School Districts.

She is survived by her husband Bob, son Jase Brenden, daughter and son-in-law Sara and Derrick Wilkins, grandchildren Dylan and Cienna, stepdaughter, Brooke Barker, brother and sister-inlaw John and Amy Bruton.

As a high schooler, Gail spent a year in Norway as an exchange student and remained close to her Norwegian family and friends over the years.

In her retirement Gail enjoyed traveling with Bob, nesting in her house in the pines, and reading a good book, preferably with her cat or dog, and spending time with friends.

No one who ever met Gail can forget her wonderful laugh, giving heart and sense of humor. She will be dearly missed by all.

DON’T MISS

Joseph Louis Caulboy

Nov. 4, 1954 – Mar. 11, 2024

Joseph Louis Caulboy passed away in the early hours of March 11th, 2024, at his home in Cameron Park, CA with his loving family by his side after a courageous fight with pancreatic cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Trina. Joe is survived by his caring wife and best friend, Theresa, his children Angela (Clinton), Bryan (Becky), Tara (Jose) & Steven (Lori) Caulboy; his grandchildren, Dylan, Jordan, Brenden, Isabella, Andrea, Damian, Cristiano, Dorian, Ruben, Aeris & Russell; sisters Linda and Marcie; brothers Paul (Claudette) and Peter (Cheri) and a host of nieces, nephews, dear friends and family members. The family will sorely miss his laid-back manner, his jokes, and the love he had for everyone he knew.

Born in Oakland, California on November 4th, 1954, to Louis and Mary Caulboy, he was the fourth child of six siblings. Joe graduated from St. Elizabeth High School, Cal State – East Bay and received his Master’s in Marriage, Family, Child Counseling from Phoenix University. He retired after 33 years of service to UPS. After retirement, he worked helping others in the mental health and social work field. He was also extremely proud of his faith and for the last twelve years was a Knight of Columbus (fourth degree).

For more information about Joe’s life and his funeral services, go to https://www.cfcssacramento.

TheGold Mine

bi-monthly

OBITUARIES

Geo rey Paul Conine Jr.

May 15, 1962 – Feb. 27, 2024

Geo rey Paul Conine, Jr., was born on May 16, 1962, in Kingston, New York, to Geo rey Paul Conine, Sr., and Mildred Gertrude Conine (Rothery).

Geo spent the first two years of his life in Wiesbaden, Germany, while his dad served in the U.S. Army. Geo and his family returned to the U.S. and lived in Paskenta until his father was transferred to the Eldorado National Forest. Geo attended schools in Placerville, graduating from El Dorado High School in 1980. Geo participated on the Ski and Track and Field teams. He excelled in the long jump and was inducted into the El Dorado Track and Field Hall of Fame by winning the league championship in his senior year. After graduation, Geo went onto get a B.S. degree in Chemistry at U.C. Davis. While at Davis, Geo joined the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, living in the house o campus where he made many lifelong friends. During his college summer months, Geo worked as a Blackjack dealer at Harrah’s in South Tahoe. After graduation, Geo worked as a chemist for Lockheed, development testing the Space Station carbon filters and age testing Trident D5 solid rocket fuel. After working for Lockheed in Sunnyvale, Geo began a 30-year career with PG&E in Field Metering, which took him to numerous PG&E service areas – San Francisco, Marysville, Woodland, and finally landing back in Placerville for the last several years of his career as Crew Lead in Field Metering. As Crew Lead, Geo enjoyed sharing his knowledge and expertise with his team and especially training and mentoring new apprentices who transferred into this highly technical position at PG&E.

Geo loved everything about the outdoors and especially the mountains. Geo made many backpacking trips in the Desolation Wilderness. He enjoyed the mountains and would take his GSP dog, Britta, to run the logging roads o Iron Mountain Road. Geo also enjoyed playing golf near his home in Camino at Apple Mountain. Geo traveled to Waterville, Ireland, with his family to enjoy 18 holes at his cousin’s golf course. He loved to camp and fish, trolling for hours in his Tracker fishing boat with his family up at Caples Lake. He also enjoyed traveling with his family and visited Great Britain, Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Switzerland, Alaska, and Florida and took a family cruise to Norway just months before he passed. Geo was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Pirates from his childhood and, later in life, a San Jose Sharks fan enjoying many games with his brother and dad.

Geo can rest proudly knowing he was deeply loved by his family and friends. Geo is survived by his brother and best friend, Derek, (Aihong), his sister, Deirdre, his two nieces, Sydney and Jessica, his uncles, aunts and many cousins throughout the country.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents and stepmother, Jacqueline Conine (Emge, Edmonson), and his infant sister, Lynnette Ann.

Although Geo had no children, he was very close to his nieces and always “showed up” to support them at their school, sports, and other activities. Geo will be laid to rest at St. Patricks Catholic Cemetery in Placerville. The family asks that any donations in Geo ’s memory be made to the American Cancer Society. Funeral Services will be held at a future date still to be determined.

Chapel of the Pines link: https://www. dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/placerville-ca/ geo rey-conine-11695141

Gwendolyn Joyce (Lindner) Upshaw

June 23, 1926 – Feb. 23, 2024

Gwen Upshaw, age 97, passed peacefully at her home in Port Townsend, Washington on Friday, February 23, 2024.

She and her husband of 67 years, Rev. Jim Upshaw, were longtime residents of Placerville.

She is survived by daughters Mary (John Endres) Upshaw, Susanne (Lindy) Heidt, and son Jim (Cyndy) Upshaw III, and was “Grandma Gwen” to ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and loved by many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 18, 2024 at 1:00pm, at the El Dorado County Federated Church, 1031 Thompson Way, Placerville, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hospice Foundation for Je erson Healthcare in Port Townsend, WA, or Snowline Hospice, Placerville.

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

March 6

8:27 p.m. California Highway Patrol o cers booked into jail a 64-year-old man suspected of DUI on Green Valley Road (town not speci ed). He was later released.

9:06 p.m. Grand theft was reported at the park and ride on Wild Chaparral Drive in Shingle Springs.

9:56 p.m. California Highway Patrol o cers booked into jail a 19-year-old man suspected of DUI on Highway 50 in Placerville. He was later released.

March 7

7:09 a.m. Burglary was reported at a restaurant on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

9:29 a.m. Grand theft was reported at a business on Golden Foothill Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

11:20 a.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported on Highway 193 in Georgetown.

11:22 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 53-year-old man suspected of throwing a substance at a vehicle on White Rock Road in El Dorado Hills. He was later released.

2:07 p.m. Battery was reported on Sly Park Road in Pollock Pines.

6:34 p.m. Burglary was reported on Gold Ridge Trail in Pollock Pines.

7:57 p.m. Burglary was reported on Salmon Falls Road in Pilot Hill.

9:41 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 29-year-old man suspected of DUI on Union Ridge Road in Placerville. He was released on $10,000 bail.

I won’t name them, one’s on Broadway, that should o set most of that,” Warren told the council.

All told, new projections indicate the city’s sales tax revenue will see a slight drop of $43,383 — about .68% — from what was collected in the 202223 fiscal year.

The real estate market has also seen a slump with volume decreasing by about 29% from pre-pandemic numbers, though prices did see an increase in five of the last 12 months. Upcoming developments will be the source of a jump in Building Division revenues; the bigticket Mallard and Middletown apartment developments are projected to bring in $167,000 alone. Planning and zoning revenue is also up.

One surprise for numbercrunchers came from discrepancies in expected sewer and water connection impact fees. The big construction projects didn’t bring in the water connection fees expected, Warren explained. New projections show a 24.35% drop from what had been planned for in the revised budget, turning a $816,855 surplus in that category into a $24,303 deficit.

On the other hand, sewer connection fees are now expected to draw $592,036 more than initially expected, plus saw a $308,435 drop in expenditures.

All told, the city’s budget actually sees a boost for projects after this midyear review, going from $1,005,357 to $1,905,828.

Of smaller revenue streams, only one point of concern was raised. Though leased parking spots are doing well, daily parking and citation revenues have dropped to a deficit of $37,000.

In the final review of the numbers, Placerville’s budget is expected to see a 2.43% drop in revenues compared to previous projections, and a 1.81% increase in expenditures. The key takeaway Warren

March 8

12:13 a.m. California Highway Patrol o cers booked into jail a 52-yearold man suspected of DUI on French Creek Road in Shingle Springs. He was released on $5,000 bail.

10:23 a.m. Battery was reported at a school on Koki Lane in El Dorado.

12:39 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 19-year-old woman suspected of vandalism on Placerville Drive. She was later released.

2:30 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 23-year-old man suspected of assault with a deadly weapon on

2:08 p.m.

4:13

7:34

8:52 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a fast food restaurant on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

9:03 p.m. Battery was reported at a business on Grizzly Flat Road in Somerset.

11:23 p.m. California Highway Patrol o cers booked into jail a 31-year-old man suspected of DUI on Highway 50 (town not speci ed). He was later released.

shared with the council was that active developments and Capital Improvement Projects would stimulate the economy over the next year, counteracting some of the cooling in the local economy. The city council will receive an additional update on the figures during the May 9 budget workshop, which will begin planning for the next fiscal year.

Taxation without reason

My income tax is due in a few weeks!

I hate it.

I’m pretty good at math, but I no longer prepare my own taxes. The form alone scares me.

I feel I have to hire an accountant because Congress, endlessly sucking up to various interest groups, keeps adding to a tax code. Now even accountants and tax nerds barely understand it.

I can get a deduction for feeding feral cats but not for having a watchdog.

I can deduct clarinet lessons if I get an orthodontist to say it’ll cure my overbite, but not piano lessons if a psychotherapist prescribes them for relaxation.

Exotic dancers can depreciate breast implants.

Even though whaling is mostly banned, owning a whaling boat can get you $10,000 in deductions.

And so on.

Stop! I have a life! I don’t want to spend my time learning about such things.

No wonder most Americans pay for some form of assistance. We pay big — about $104 billion a year. We waste 2 billion hours filling out stupid forms.

That may not even be the worst part of the tax code.

We adjust our lives to satisfy the whims of politicians. They manipulate us with tax rules. Million-dollar mortgage deductions invite us to buy bigger homes. Solar tax credits got me to put panels on my roof.

“These incentives are a good thing,” say politicians. “Even high taxes alone encourage gifts to charity.”

But “Americans don’t need to be bribed to give,” says Steve Forbes. “In the 1980s, when the top rate got cut from 70% down to 28% ... charitable giving went up. When people have more, they give more.”

Right. When government lets us live our own lives, good things happen.

But politicians want more control.

American colonists started a revolution partly over taxes. They raided British ships and dumped their tea into the Boston Harbor to protest a tax of “3 pennies per pound.” But once those “don’t tax me!” colonists became politicians, they, too, raised taxes. First, they taxed things they deemed bad, like snuff and whiskey.

Letters to the Editor

A business decision

EDITOR:

If you only read the headlines, one might think the House of Representatives, in a rare bi-partisan act, voted 352-65 to ban TikTok.

The general reasons for the action have been laid out to the public that China is mining information of over 170 million users in the U.S. China is accused of manipulating the minds of its users that could influence elections. TikTok has also been accused of being dangerous to children, exposing them to bullying and sexual exploitation.

These reasons alone make me feel a sense of pride that Congress is looking out for all of us and especially the children. Think about the children for goodness’ sake.

But, when you read the bill, the House didn’t vote to ban TikTok. It forces the company and China to sell its interests to someone else. Meaning that Congress is fine with TikTok mining information, manipulating the public and exploiting children just as long as it’s done by a U.S.-owned company.

And just when I thought the federal government might actually care about the American people.

KEN STEERS Cameron Par

Eliminate the word ‘hate’

EDITOR:

s there enough hatred in our country today?

IIf not, we can follow Larry Weitzman’s example in the Opinion section dated March 4 and allege that people who oppose Donald Trump actually hate him. I heard this same theme recently by locals.

I said then and now, “Perhaps we shouldn’t assume that people hate.” Would that be OK? People do become angry and frustrated and lose respect for others and become adamant there be accountability for actions. We all get angry with spouses and bosses but that doesn’t mean we hate.

The above feelings are not the same thing as

hate. But, in my opinion, Mr. Weitzman is working on stirring up this emotion. Yes, there will be a small number who do hate or at least use the word. However, each time he and others promote that we all hate people we disagree with/lack respect for, the less apt we are to work together to solve the nation’s problems. Mr. Weitzman, your article is an impediment to this country uniting.

You state that the judge and NY Attorney General Letitia James hate Donald Trump.

Evidence, please! It isn’t necessary to hate in order to demand respect and order in one’s courtroom.

You claim the left is abolishing rights to a fair trial and a jury. Facts, please! I understand Trump’s attorneys could have requested a jury and litigated the issue if denied.

And Letitia James hates Trump? Maybe she just loves her city and hates crime. As for District Attorney Fani Willis, I believe she will be disciplined by her superiors or the voters will deal with her.

In the meantime, stop promoting the idea of hate between citizens and deal with and in facts. Be part of the solution, not the problem.

MINDY DURAND Placerville

Rental troubles

EDITOR:

The Tahoe Coalition has not solved a need. I have been renting for a year-and-a-half and they still haven’t finished repairs or upkeep to my apartment per the signed rental agreement.

The blinds in the living room haven’t been repaired and the countertop from when a guy died here hasn’t been replaced. I call the landlord repeatedly.

They monitor the grounds by camera and anyone living here usually says what they want about others on this residential property.

Is anything to be done about seedy landlords?

DAWN PETTIJOHN South Lake Tahoe

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization protects who?

It’s fitting that I am writing this column on George Washington’s birthday, perhaps the greatest president, certainly imbued with traditional American values — the man who would be president, but not a king. At least we were taught that in school, and it was true.

On Feb. 13, 2024, our current president gave a speech from a teleprompter (obviously written by his “handlers”) about how important NATO is and how our former President Donald Trump said if NATO members didn’t spend their required commitment on defense, Russia could do ”whatever the hell they want.”

Biden said, ”Our commitment to NATO was sacred.” That’s Biden’s first lie.

The commitment is that every member (there are 32) spends, since 2014, a minimum of 2% of their gross domestic product for defense. The United States does (actually about 4%), and when Trump became president he wanted the rest of NATO nations to pay their “fair” share of defense commitments as most (none actually) members did not.

As Joe Biden likes to say, Americans need to pay “their fair share of income taxes.” Using the NATO rule it would be a 2% flat tax.

A commitment is a commitment and there are several NATO commitments within the NATO treaty.

But Biden’s second lie is bigger. Here it comes: “Donald Trump looks at this as a burden. When he looks at NATO, he doesn’t see the alliance ‘that protects America’ and the world; he sees a protection racket.”

Trump is correct. We don’t look to NATO for protection; NATO looks to us for protection. And we get to pay for most of it — a shakedown by other NATO nations.

There is a reason we study history.

It is so we don’t repeat our mistakes. Those who don’t are “condemned” to repeat them (Jorge Santayana, 1905). Let’s go back to Dec. 7, 1941. We all remember Pearl Harbor. How many remember Isoroku Yamamoto?

Adm. Yamamoto was the commander-in-chief of the Japanese Imperial Navy and the planner and commander of the entire Pearl Harbor attacking force and

was aboard the Battleship Nagato during the attack. Prior to World War II, Adm. Yamamoto studied at Harvard and was a Naval attaché in Washington and had traveled extensively in the United States. As a result, he was fluent in English and knew America, its industry, its culture and its people.

A day after Pearl Harbor Yamamoto said, “I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve.” Yamamoto knew the incredible resources, people, teamwork and power of the United States as far back as the 1920s.

The other 31 NATO member nations need us. We need Latvia, Albania, North Macedonia or Luxembourg (all 998 square miles) for our protection? El Dorado County by itself is twice as big as Luxembourg. And we look to Luxembourg’s 410-troop active military and it’s $400 million military budget (one half of 1% of its GDP) for our safety from Putin? Or maybe we need Latvia with its 8,750 active troops and 1% of GDP defense budget. Even Germany has a defense

budget of 1% percent or just half of the “required” NATO commitment.

Only England almost meets its NATO commitment of defense spending at about 1.8% of their GDP. The bottom line is the U.S. defense budget is much larger than the combined defense budgets of the other 31 member NATO nations.

The Untied States spends nearly 4% of our GDP on defense and nearly 20% of our federal budget on defense. Interestingly, the main constitutional purpose of the federal government at its founding was to provide for “the common defense.” Was that to include 31 other nations?

Oh my, how our government has grown into a nightmarish bureaucracy of everything but defense.

We have bases in a few of these countries, but it is for their protection as much as ours. And our bases contribute significantly to their economies.

When it comes to commitments and NATO, Trump wants all

LARY WEITZMAN

JOHN STOSSEL

Courtesy photos

Detectives from the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office worked in tandem with Folsom police to curb organized retail theft at the El Dorado Hills Target location last week. During the blitz operation, six people were contacted, resulting in four individuals receiving misdemeanor citations for petty theft, fraud and trespassing.

Sheriff’s blitz targets retail theft

Odin Rasco Sta writer

Detectives from the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce conducted a blitz operation at the El Dorado Hills Target store last week which resulted in criminal citations for four people and the location of a runaway juvenile.

Blitz operations such as the one undertaken at Target consist of undercover surveillance in and around a store during normal business hours with the intent of thwarting organized retail crime, according to an EDSO social media post. The

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

operation in El Dorado Hills was conducted with assistance from the Folsom Police Department’s Problem Oriented Policing team and Target’s loss prevention sta .

Six people were contacted during the operation, with four being issued misdemeanor criminal citations for petty theft, fraud and trespassing. Because of the nature of the blitz, further investigation may lead to more charges for the individuals cited.

Detectives also spotted a juvenile who had been reported missing; he was safely reunited with his family.

ANSWER

Crossword

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Edited by Will Shortz No. 0213

Stossel Continued from A4

Alexander Hamilton’s whiskey tax led to violent protests.

Now Americans meekly (mostly) accept new and much higher taxes.

All of us su er because politicians have turned income tax into a manipulative maze.

We waste money and time and do things we wouldn’t normally do.

Since I criticize government, I assume some IRS agent would like to come after me.

So, cowering in fear, I hire an accountant and tell her, “Megan, don’t be aggressive. Just skip any challengeable deduction, even if it means I pay more.”

I like having an accountant, but I don’t like having to have one. I resent having to pay Megan.

I once calculated what I could buy with the money I pay her. I could get a brand-new motorcycle. I could take a cruise ship to Italy and back every year.

Better still, I could give my money to charity and maybe do some good in the world. For the same amount I spend on Megan, I could pay four kids’ tuition at a private school funded by SSPNYC.org.

Or I could invest. I might help grow a company that creates a fun product, cures cancer or creates wealth in a hundred ways.

But I can’t. I need to pay Megan.

What a waste.

Every Tuesday at JohnStossel.com, Stossel posts a new video about the battle between government and freedom. He is the author of “Give Me a Break: How I Exposed Hucksters, Cheats, and Scam Artists and Became the Scourge of the Liberal Media.”

Weitzman

Continued from A4

the commitments fulfilled by all the member countries involved. If every NATO member is to receive benefits of protection from all other NATO members (Article V), then every NATO member must meet all the commitments of NATO membership.

There you have the definition of “fair share.” Everyone should pay an equal percentage.

Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.

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

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

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 rst 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 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.

Faced with mega fires, water managers adopt new principals

Madison Schultz

Special to the Tahoe Daily Tribune

In early February

2024 the Mountain Counties Water Resources Association adopted new forest management principles with the goal of solving the ongoing problem and severe effects of California’s mega wildfires.

“Over 100 years of suppressing wildfires and changing climate have produced overgrown forests and catastrophic mega wildfires that are impacting communities, degrading California’s headwaters’ water quality, water infrastructure and forest resources in Sierra Nevada watersheds, (ultimately) creating a toxic smoke health

hazard throughout the state,” MCWRA’s website reads.

“These severe mega wildfires release tons of greenhouse gases and eliminate the ability of forests to absorb and store atmospheric carbon,” the website continues.

“Over the years MCWRA has adopted a set of water policy principles that are reviewed on an annual basis that provide staff who work on behalf of the association with a framework on which to advocate,” Justin Caporusso, executive director of MCWRA said. “Over the last handful of years we’ve really focused a lot of our time on forest management and the impact of the mega fires that we’ve experienced

over the past decade. These mega fires have dramatically impacted our water resources in the Sierra Nevada region.”

According to Caporusso, there is a “trickledown effect” of the significant impact that wildfires have had on the Sierra Nevada region’s water sources.

“The water resources that are being impacted are affecting the entire state,” Caporusso said. “We have really been working to find ways to increase the pace and scale of forest management projects. We’re advocating for streamlining environmental review before and following these large, catastrophic mega wildfires. It’s really become a lot of our focus following the

change of what we’ve seen in the climate as it relates to the impact of wildfires.”

Rich Farrington, Amador Water Agency District 3 director, and 33-year U.S. Forest Service employee explains that climate change will continue to exacerbate the problem as a result of increasing droughts, temperatures and wildfires.

“Severe mega wildfires have gotten significantly worse over the past 10 years,” Farrington said. “The biggest threat of these severe fires is they turn the soil to fine powder and blacken everything. It’s a much bigger threat to our water and air quality.”

“We really need to think long-term about how we are going to recognize that we need to condition these overgrown forests to use ‘good fire’ that was common prior to 1850

to maintain all the different benefits that the forest provides,” Farrington said.

Acknowledging controlled burns to uphold forest management, Farrington and Caporusso state it’s important for communities to work toward “shifting the narrative” to where there’s more understanding from community members on proper forest management.

In the development of MCWRA’s new forest management principles, the organization states there’s a significant lack of recognition and funding for proper forest management to manage these critical headwater resources.

“California’s Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain regions provide water supplies for three quarters

Airport Continued from A1

had clipped a tree until landing at the Cameron Park Airport to find a 2-foot portion of a tree top tangled to his aircraft, according to the report.

“The liability exposure the county is currently facing is unacceptable,” it reads. “While the issue has been discussed for the past 15 years or more, it is now much worse due to the heavy rains in the winter of 2022-23 adding to the tree growth.”

Despite budget shortage, potential environmental impact studies needed to conduct vegetation work and time to secure funding from the FAA for the work, the Grand Jury went on to criticize the county for its lack of action to address the vegetationrelated hazards.

Though there was an initial proposed plan to remove 3 acres of high-priority trees from the main approach path, and a longer-term plan to clear another 3-4 acres near the airport, the Grand Jury Report notes the county “failed to protect the safety of its citizens by not promptly addressing the airport’s hazardous conditions.”

Because of these issues, Caltrans closed the airport for night operations in Dec. 7, 2023.

That is not the end of the airport’s problems. Engineering reports state clearing more than 1,500 trees across 6-8 acres is estimated to cost $50,000-$100,000, money the airport division does not have.

The airports’ revenue is currently only offsetting about 25% of its costs. Airports have been drawing money from the General Fund to counter losses.

The county-operated airports in Georgetown and Placerville are losing thousands of dollars yearly. The county’s annual fiscal report in 2022 indicated a loss of $537,000 that year. The airports operated at a loss of $471,000 in the 2021 fiscal year.

However, the losses are offset by “intangible economic benefits” from tourism and revenue-generating contracts with Cal Fire.

E-waste Continued from A1

curbside containers,” he continued. “The batteries need to be taped on both ends and disposed of in a plastic container. The e-waste must be brought to one of our locations that accepts that material or we can arrange curbside pick up. Impactful change is going to have to start and end with the consumers.”

El Dorado Disposal provides free curbside battery pick-up upon

of all Californians, and accounts for the majority of the state’s overall water supply,” MCWRA’s website states. “Local, small regional water purveyors cannot and should not be expected to solely tackle this responsibility given the overall statewide benefit realized from this water supply and other values of resilient forests. Through education and advocacy, MCWRA will continue to promote statewide policies and pursue funding for programs and projects that protect Sierra Nevada’s forested watersheds.”

MCWRA intends to support projects that aim to:

• Improve water quality and quantity

• Enhance habitats, ecosystems, recreation and watersheds

n See MCWRA, page A7

“In general it is not uncommon for general aviation airports around the country to operate at a significant loss and rely on government subsidies and grants for continued operations,” the report continues. “The county has contracted a consulting firm to explore various options for improving the economic viability for both airports.”

Though it noted there is now urgency in the airport’s situation, the report states no one in the Planning and Building Department “could or would take responsibility for the lack of a risk mitigation plan prior to November 2023.”

Coincidentally, the county on Jan. 23 approved reassigning the Airport Division from Planning and Building Department to the Chief Administrative Office to relieve underperforming Planning and Building.

Nevertheless interviews conducted by the Grand Jury found Planning and Building staff had a “lack of understanding of the urgency of the problem.”

Recommendations from the Grand Jury include addressing the tree hazards by September 2024, conducting annual safety inspections for both Placerville and Georgetown airports starting in 2025 and to utilize the Growlersburg Conservation Camp crew to clear trees whenever applicable.

The county declined to comment on these findings, stating the Board of Supervisors will address the entirety of the Grand Jury Report at a later date.

“To anybody outside the government, the urgency of the situation and the need to cut through red tape seems obvious,” the report continues. “To knowledgeable pilots operating under ideal weather conditions, the airport is rapidly becoming unusable. To pilots without local knowledge operating under less-than-ideal weather or night conditions, it’s a potential death trap.”

request. The Buy Back Centers in Cameron Park, 3350 Saratoga Lane, and El Dorado Hills, 4421 Latrobe Road, accept e-waste 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday for free and the Material Recovery Facility, 4100 Throwita Way in Placerville, accepts batteries and e-waste 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week for free. For more information visit eldoradodisposal. com.

Photos courtesy of Mountain Counties Water Resources Association

An aerial shot of a muddy river after the 2014 King Fire.

TEAM CALIFORNIA

Mosquito Bridge concrete pour delayed again

The scheduled delivery and pouring of 1,100 cubic yards of concrete as part of the Mosquito Road Bridge Replacement Project has been delayed due to weather again, according to an El Dorado County Department of Transportation announcement Friday morning.

The large pour was originally planned to take place March 8, then later rescheduled to March 15; it is now set to take place Friday, March 29, at 10 p.m. through Saturday, March 30 at 5 p.m. The delivery and placement will be located on Mosquito Road between .6 miles north to .8 miles south of the Mosquito Road Bridge and will require a full closure of the road at the gates. A detour has been established via Rock Creek Road; motorists are advised to expect delays and plan extra time for travel.

Though the weather appears clear, past storms have caused delays in other steps of the projects, pushing back when the concrete can be delivered, according

MCWRA

Continued from A6

• Lower risk to rural communities, public safety and infrastructure

• Reduced impacts of wildfire, toxic smoke and climate change

• Create resilient forests and communities

• Increase carbon sequestration

“More than 75% of California’s water originates in the Sierra Nevada-Cascade watersheds,” Caporusso said. “Healthy, resilient forests are vital to maintain adequate quality and quantity of source water supply and clear air for local, regional and statewide needs. California is facing a wildfire and forestry crisis. It’s a statewide responsibility that these resources are protected, because they are resources that we all share.”

MCWRA’s new forest management principles include:

• Shift to large-scale forest management

• Increased and ongoing funding for forest management

• Streamlined environmental review

• Biomass market development

• Increased controlled burning

• Developing and cultivating partnerships

• Set forest management priorities

According to Farrington, it’s essential to take a balanced approach to this ongoing issue of mitigating against mega wildfires through better forest management.

“We definitely want to protect other forest resources, but we have to take a balanced approach with forest management, and I believe that’s the proactive strategy MCWRA has done to improve that,” Farrington said.

Among the water and air quality environmental concerns these wildfires pose, the mega fires also present other threats, such as the near-threatened California Spotted Owl species.

“It looks like the California Spotted Owl will be listed as a threatened endangered species by the federal government. The recent Caldor, Rim, and King Fires burned up a large number of Spotted Owl nest sites, Farrington said. “We are destroying a species by allowing the forests to be overgrown.”

Farrington continues, stating that the drying and warming of the climate and the impacts of climate change also have an influence on these mega wildfires, but the largest part of the problem is California’s overgrown forests.

to a DOT press release.

The road closure has been determined to be necessary to ensure safety for motorists and workers while the county’s contractor brings in 120 truckloads of concrete for the Pier 3 footing at the north side of the project; to keep pace, it is estimated 10 trucks will be leaving the concrete batch plant and another 10 empty ones returning to it from the work site every hour.

The route for trucks will cross Rock Creek Road to Mosquito Cutoff Road from the project’s concrete batch plant near Finnon Lake; it will then follow Mosquito Road to the Pier 3 location, on the third switchback on the north side of the river.

Drivers who must travel on the roads during the hours of the concrete pour are advised to exercise extra caution at the intersections of Rock Creek Road and Mosquito Cutoff Road and Mosquito Cutoff Road and Mosquito Road. Flaggers will be stationed above the gates at adequate turn around areas and can coordinate with emergency services if needed.

Acknowledging the significant impact California’s mega wildfires take on Northern California communities, Caporusso states how essential it is to continuously advocate for better policy to face this ongoing issue head-on.

“It’s so important to remember the results of the devastation post-wildfire,” Caporusso said. “Until someone feels threatened and recognizes that this is a long, long, recovery cycle; once it’s out of the news it’s oftentimes out of the minds of people across the state.”

With MCWRA’s new forest management principles introduced, funding plays a large role in implementing these new principles to make proactive change for California’s forests.

“We’re saying it’s going to cost $1 billion annually for our members to tackle this problem, and it’ll take at least five to 10 years,” Farrington said. “Funding is the number one priority. The second priority is streamlining the environmental process. I believe declaring an emergency, recognizing the threats and damage that these mega wildfires have caused over the past decade is essential to moving forward to solve this issue.”

Along with needing proper funding and streaming environmental planning, Caporusso states that community members play a pivotal role in making significant change.

“The only way we get work done is through coalitions,” Caporusso said. “We are always looking for more partners who are working toward the same goal and to join efforts. The larger and more powerful coalition we are, the more reception we’ll receive to make change. It starts at the grassroots level and gets people fired up about the issue itself, and then expands our coalition support.”

MCWRA is a 58-member association with the goal to serve as a water protection supply agency. Currently MCWRA protects 12 counties’ water resources in Northern California. These counties include Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Mariposa, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sierra, Tuolumne and Yuba counties.

For more information on MCWRA, to get involved with MCWRA’s new Forest Management Principles and to read the full list of principles in detail visit mountaincountieswater.com.

COMICS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

SUDOKU

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You make your moves with the best intentions, and without expectation or anticipation of a positive response. Remarkable outcomes can arise from a bit of audaciousness.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). In a sense you feel like you’re in a preexistent state, preparing to step into a role or become another version of yourself. Just know that even though you are learning, you’re still as whole and complete as any version of yourself.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). There’s no risk that makes you see yourself better today than risking rejection. Being on your own side is being on the side of learning, not being on the side of perfection, power, ego or winning. You’ll tune your offering based on feedback.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). To put your heart on the line usually takes courage. Now it just takes math. When you see that what’s there to gain is extremely valuable, rare and worth the risk, you can’t back down from the challenge.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Attraction is the principle by which the planets orbit and the people, too. You’ll find the social circle more interesting for the aspects, angles and intersections. Knowing and seeing what people like will be exciting.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Once you choose, let go of the other options. Trust yourself. Regret, rumination, comparison and the like can only slow your progress or put a damper on your joy. But to celebrate your choice the whole way will give you power.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). If you spend too much time trying to meet someone’s impossible needs, you’ll forget who you are. Instead, build up your own self-worth. There’s no need to spend any time at all in a toxic situation.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Learn the style of others. Stay aware of patterns, habits and the like. If one person is playing a game, the others, who are not playing a game, are still unwittingly in a game.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You have a special energy that people want to be around. It extends to your belongings. You may have trouble getting someone to return what was borrowed from you. No one will want to give up the special energy infused in your things.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). When you put yourself or your work on the line, you risk rejection. Ultimately, this is the risk that will make you see yourself better. And seeing yourself allows you to align with the needs of those around you.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ll show your feelings, maybe not on purpose. It’s what happens when you’re willing to feel what comes up. Don’t worry too much about it today. They’ll wash over you fast. Furthermore, someone special will connect with your open heart -- not who you were expecting.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You have a natural ability to create harmony and understanding in your relationships. Your diplomacy and empathy make you a true relationship expert today.

Courtesy photo

Skiers from El Dorado, Oak Ridge and Amador high schools, South 1’s speediest on the slopes, represented California at the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association Regional High School Ski Competition March 12-14 at Mammoth Mountain. Team California placed fourth out of nine states. Pictured at Mammoth from left are Charlie Beckerly (Oak Ridge), Nick Wolff (Oak Ridge), Carlie Chandler (El Dorado), Marley Garner (Amador), Andie Chandler (El Dorado) and Markus Hirsbrunner-Reist (El Dorado).

Friday April 1, 2022 Friday April 26, 2024

El Dorado County Fair & Event Center 100 Placerville Dr., Placerville

El Dorado County Fair & 5:00 – 9:00 pm

The 8th Annual Stand Up For MORE Comedy Night will be in partnership with the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce to 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

Courtesy photos Buckeye Union School District hosted its 11th annual Heritage Festival March 13, showcasing different countries and celebrating different cultures through crafts, activities and performances. Above left, Blue Oak Elementary School third-grader Harrison Watkinson Brown defends the goal at his Canada booth while, above right, Buckeye Union Mandarin Immersion students represent China with a special performance.

The beauty of India was shared by Rupsi and Mauli at their booth, above left. Visitors at the Heritage Festival were treated to an international Dance Arts Collective performance, above right, featuring a traditional Portuguese dance.

March

AFire Amador/ El Dorado Unit headquarters’ conference room, 2840 Mt. Danaher Road in Camino.

March 22

Kelly & Roy will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/ live-music.

Donnie & The Wayrads will perform 8 p.m. to midnight at Red Hawk Casino’s Stage Bar. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

Sacramento Theatre Company presents An Evening with Stephanie J. Block at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916)

March

To celebrate nature’s reawakening the Amador Vintners Association presents Behind the Cellar Door. This popular passport event is March 23-24. For more than 25 years, Behind the Cellar Door has brought together leading Amador wineries and wine lovers for an exceptional weekend of wine-focused activities around the art of winemaking. Guests will discover why Amador is one of the top wine regions in California and produces world-class wines that have been rated 100 points by Wine Spectator — twice in fact. From touring the vineyards in the heart of the Gold Rush’s Mother Lode rich in minerals, to exploring the highest mountain vineyards in California, to tasting unique varietals that thrive in the Sierra foothills, Behind the Cellar door o ers a wealth of immersive activities during the two-day experience.

For more than 150 years the Amador vintners have been trailblazers in the wine industry, exploring winemaking in the Sierra foothills and unique varietals to craft award-winning zinfandel, syrah, barbera and much more. Most of the wineries have been passed down from generation to generation and are still family-owned. During Behind the Cellar Door, guests will be able to meet the winemakers and the families as well as discover and taste the incredible wines. Guests may also blend their own bottle of wine, be a sommelier for a day and learn how to pair wine and food, tour a winery, go on vineyard tours, attend educational seminars while enjoying flights of world-class Amador wine and enjoy small bites and barrel samples in the beautiful Sierra foothills.

Behind the Cellar Door’s unique two-day, reservationonly format allows participants to go behind the scenes and blaze their own trail through the six sub-zones of Amador Wine country — Amador City, Drytown, Fiddletown, Shenandoah, Sutter Creek, and West End. Guests may select

up to five winery experiences per day with more than 45 wineries participating. A limited number of single-day and designated driver passes are also available. Tickets are available for purchase online at amadorwine.com/behind-thecellar-door for the rain or shine event.

you will be sure to impress your friends at the next soirée.

Winemakers Michael and Ashley will come around with a special library wine for guests to taste while they describe how the characteristics and flavor profiles of wine change with age. Cleanse your palate with a hunk of crusty bread

the vineyard, accompanied by the captivating presence of owls and hawks showcased by the Tri County Wildlife Center. Visit with the birds of prey and learn how they help sustainably control pests in the vineyard. Following this unique outdoor setting, stroll to the Andis Event Center to

Winery experiences

AMADOR CELLARS, 11093

Shenandoah Road, Plymouth

— Enjoy six wines perfectly paired with six gourmet cheeses and learn the reasoning behind each pairing. Chat with the winemakers about how each pairing changes and enhances the flavor of the wine; with this knowledge

dunked in the freshly pressed 2023 Estate Olive Oil. The sta will pour the Best of California Barbera in addition to other award-winning varietals. There will be live music by Jimmy Ashley on Saturday and Darin Sexton spinning favorite classic records on Sunday.

ANDIS WINES, 11000

Shenandoah Road, Plymouth

— Experience the first sip in

indulge in a delightful wine tasting journey, complemented by a mouthwatering culinary creation crafted by the talented team at Flora & Fauna.

AVIO VINEYARDS AND WINERY, 14520 Ridge Road, Sutter Creek — Join Avio in the vineyard for a hands-on pruning seminar and learn the

.com

■ See CELLAR DOOR, page B4 Check out

Mountain Democrat photo by Mimi Escabar Amador County is one of California’s original wine regions and home to the country’s oldest recorded zinfandel vineyard. Taste wine from these vines and many others during the Behind the Cellar Door event.

Lake Tahoe Community College marks 50 years

Laney Griffo

Tahoe Daily Tribune

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — Lake Tahoe Community College turned 50 years old on March 5 and used that anniversary to kick-o its 18-month birthday celebration.

done with several past presidents and trustees of the college. And while it was a celebration of all the school has accomplished in the past half-century, it was also a look at what’s ahead.

The celebration began with remarks from LTCC Board Trustee Kerry David, who recognized Roberta Mason, one of the founding members of the college in attendance at the event.

The celebration was held in the Lake Tahoe Community College Student Center cafeteria, the same room where the 40th anniversary was held a decade before.

LTCC President Je DeFranco gave an address, during which he talked about how much had changed in those 10 years. He looked at all the growth the campus and school has experienced, including the groundbreaking ceremony for the school’s on-campus housing project.

The 18-month celebration will last until September 2025, which will mark 50 years since the college o cially opened its doors at the motel.

“50 years from the day we started in a motel, we will opening residential living on this campus,” shared DeFranco.

“We celebrate 50 years of dedication to equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in diverse career paths that support our community and region.”

— Joe Irvin, South Lake Tahoe city manager and LTCC alum

“As we mark 50 years of Lake Tahoe Community College, we celebrate our rich history and our continued growth and evolution,” said DeFranco. “This milestone is an opportunity to look back on our humble beginnings in a converted motel and our current standing as a soon-to-be residential institution serving the South Shore of Lake Tahoe and our region.”

On March 5, 1974, LTCC became a certified institution after residents voted to establish the college. The campus was originally housed in a South Lake Tahoe motel. The school has since moved onto its own campus that has continually grown over the years.

DeFranco’s remarks were interspersed with video interviews

The LTCC president also announced a new campaign to recognize Fifty Awesome Alumni and the Fifty Faces of LTCC. This alumni initiative will be a collaborative e ort to identify those who attended LTCC and are now making an impact in their respective communities. The Faces of LTCC initiative will seek to identify those individuals who made a lasting impact on the institution as employees, supporters or other stakeholders.

“Lake Tahoe Community College is a cornerstone of education in our region,” states Joe Irvin, South lake Tahoe city manager and LTCC alum in a press release. “We celebrate 50 years of dedication to equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in diverse career paths that support our community and region.”

Nominations are now open. Those who are interested in nominating can visit ltcc.edu/50 and complete either of the forms. Those who qualify can also nominate themselves via the website form. There will be two more celebrations forthcoming. On May 16 the Child Development Center will celebrates its 30th anniversary. On May 17, 2025, a celebratory gala will be held at the Tahoe Blue Center.

Board of Education seat open

Dina Gentry

El

El Dorado County Board of Education Trustee Richard Fischer will be stepping down from his role, after representing Area 5 for more than a decade.

candidate information sheet, available on edcoe.org or by contacting Makayla Evans at meevans@edcoe.org.

Completed sheets may be emailed to meevans@edcoe.org or mailed to: Superintendent’s O ce, EDCOE, 6767 Green Valley Road, Placerville, CA 95667. Applications must be received by 4 p.m. Monday, April 8.

The El Dorado County Board of Education is now accepting applications to fill this vacancy by appointment. The term of the provisional appointment runs through Dec. 13, 2024. The appointed incumbent would be eligible to run for election in the November 2024 election.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and reside within the boundaries of Trustee Area 5, which can be viewed at tinyurl. com/EDCOETrusteeBoundaries. All interested parties are encouraged to review the qualifications and submit a

All interested parties are encouraged to attend the Candidate Introduction Forum to learn more about the El Dorado County O ce of Education and the roles and responsibilities of a board member. This optional forum will be held during the regular meeting of the County Board of Education at 12:30 p.m. on April 2 at EDCOE, Room B-2. Interviews will be conducted at a special meeting in April. Applicants will be notified of the date and time of their interview.

For additional information call (530) 295-2235.

Photo by Laney Gri o / Tahoe Daily Tribune

A full room raises a glass to 50

Cellar

secrets behind producing 12,752 glasses of wine. Take home clippings to kickstart your own vineyard. Then, explore the barrel room for a straight-fromthe-barrel vertical tasting, unraveling the stages of wine maturity and its life cycle. Cap off the experience with a perfect pairing with Nonna’s homemade Pasta e Fagioli.

BELLA GRACE VINEYARDS, 22715 Upton Road, Plymouth — Start the visit at Bella Grace with a stroll through the underground wine cave, learning key elements of barrel aging along the way. Inside the cave, pick up a tasting of the 2022 Barbera from the 30 hectoliter (792 gallon) French oak barrel. Back outside, enjoy a combination of award-winning Bella Grace wines perfectly paired with small bites by Chef Robert. Relax and enjoy panoramic views of the vineyards.

BELLEDOR VINEYARDS, 13391 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Enjoy Palate Puzzles: The Ultimate Blind Tasting Challenge. Embark on a sensory journey with a blind tasting experience at Belledor Vineyards, where the tasters’ palates take center stage in the absence of visual cues. Join this unforgettable experience where senses become the ultimate detectives in this delightful pursuit of vinous knowledge. Come enjoy bites and flights at Belledor.

CONVERGENCE VINEYARDS, 14650 CA-124, Plymouth — At Convergence, the staff will open the literal cellar doors for this special weekend. Come for a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process and taste some of the current vintage offerings, as well as some samples straight from the barrel. The owner and winemakers will pour and serve homemade biscuits to boot. Come on down.

COOPER VINEYARDS, 21365 Shenandoah School Road, Plymouth — A frequent question asked at Cooper is how the weather has affected the vineyard? How does drought affect the grapes? How does rain affect the grapes? Expert winemaker Mike Roser, and his assistants, will explore the importance of weather on the quality and quantity of grapes in the vineyard and, ultimately, how it affects the wine in your glass. Taste wine from the barrels, interact with the winemaker and/ or assistants and enjoy a light-bite food pairing prepared by Motherlode Market & Catering.

D’AGOSTINI WINES, 12557 Steniner Road, Plymouth — Experience a flight of four wines, one

tank tasting, small bites paired with tasting and a winery tour with the winemaker.

DEAVER VINEYARDS, 12455 Steiner Road, Plymouth — Taste a flight of five wines, including a barrel sample, and enjoy small bites.

DI ARIE VINEYARD & WINERY, 19919

Shenandoah School Road, Plymouth — Learn about the “Varietal Identity of Wine.” Sign up for The Big Quiz – Be A Sleuth. Explore the splendor of the award-winning wines and learn to identify the variety of the mystery wine. Winemaker Chaim will taste with you a collection of wines and teach you how to identify them.

DI STASIO VINEYARDS, 10788 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Di Stasio Vineyards will offer a tasting experience with the sparkling sorpresa, sauvignon blanc, old vine zin, barbera and one riserva wine barrel tasting. There will be a small antipasti of imported salumi, cheese, olives and crackers as well as a seasonal pasta sampler.

DIANDA TASTING ROOM & VINEYARDS,

22105 Lawrence Road, Fiddletown — Taste a flight of four wines, one barrel tasting and homemade minestrone soup then take a winemaker’s tour of winery and try side-by-side tasting.

DOBRA ZEMLJA WINERY, 12505 Steiner Road, Plymouth — Join Dobra Zemlja Winery (meaning ‘good earth’ in Croatian) as it gives guests a peek behind the cave door with an educational barrel and vertical tasting of one of its signature big Amador reds, no lightweights, with mali ‘little’ bites that complement the wines.

DRIVEN CELLARS, 12595 Steiner Road, Plymouth — Get your engines started at Driven Cellars for the Behind The Cellar Door event. The staff is excited to guide guests through the ultimate tasting experience consisting of several wines paired with a delicious signature charcuterie cup and then hit the finish line with a barrel tasting of the 2017 Zinfandel and a sweet treat.

award-winning wines and live music both days.

HELWIG VINEYARDS & WINERY, 11555 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Experience the underground wine cave and learn why caves are so beneficial to the winemaking process while sipping a selection of award-winning wines thoughtfully paired with small bites designed by the kitchen. The focus will be on wine and foods of Spain. Have your senses transported as you enjoy the acoustical Spanish guitar stylings of Jessie Hendricks, all while learning old world traditions in winemaking.

IL GIOIELLO WINERY & MORSE WINES, 22355 Lawrence Road Fiddletown — Taste barrel samples alongside new bottlings and aged vintages of Bordeaux varietals and blends grown and produced in the Sierra foothill Il Gioiello Winery. Enjoy an instructive seminar on favorites cabernet franc and petite verdot.

IRON HUB WINERY, 12500 Steiner Road, Plymouth — Be your own winemaker and try your hand at blending. Create a wine blend with Iron Hub’s father-son winemaking team, Tom and Spencer Jones. This will be a fun experience. Barrel taste and blend on the lovely patio with gorgeous Sierra views. The wonderful Iron Hub team will also provide guests with a progressive sampling of estate grown white and red wines. Enjoy a delicious serving of rich food bites paired with the wines.

JEFF RUNQUIST WINES, 10776 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Guests are invited to savor a curated selection of award-winning wines, each thoughtfully paired with light, gourmet bites crafted to complement and enhance the tasting journey. Engage the senses as you explore the nuanced flavors and aromas that define the wines. Learn what pairs best with some of the favorite offerings and why.

KARMERE VINEYARDS & WINERY, 11970

Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Taste a flight of the current vintages as well as several varietals from the barrel and try a vertical tasting of library wines.

DRYTOWN CELLARS, 16030 CA-49, Drytown — For those looking for adventure this weekend, visit Drytown Cellars during Behind the Cellar Door. Pick up your stemware here. Learn from winemaker Allen how to interpret basic lab results and how to use them in the art of winemaking. He’ll present Tenth Grade Science and Sensory Analysis on Saturday at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. There will be seasonal dishes paired with the

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LA MESA VINEYARDS, 13200 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Experience one of Amador’s newest tasting rooms. Taste a flight of the most innovative wines, including the flagship Barbera Blanc. Sample the pre-release zinfandels illustrating how terroir impacts the same grape. Owner/

winemaker Côme will answer questions and share how grape clones, terroir, technology and handcrafting combine to make superior wines.

LE MULET ROUGE VINEYARD & WINERY, 59 Main St., Sutter Creek — Wines can be made in many styles. Join winemaker Tracy Hart to explore how food influences wine and vice-versa.

Enjoy three small bites and three wines and learn how the palate responds to each food and wine. This is not a wine pairing but a special opportunity to explore different wines with different food styles. Tracy will share her passion for balanced wines that complement food and conversation.

Amazing bites are prepared by Chef Jason Clevenger of Nomad Adventurous Eats.

LUSSO DELLA

TERRA CELLARS, 21390 Ostrom Road, Fiddletown — Meet winemaker Edward Cholakian as he walks through the steps of making sparkling wine using Method Champenoise. He will guide guests through the six elements associated with wine and food pairing while experiencing signature pairings.

PAUL J WINES, 10775 Shenandoah Rosd, #9513, Plymouth — Enjoy a delicious flight of hearty wines paired with pulled pork sliders from The County BBQ catering.

PLEINAIR

VINEYARDS, 21090

Ostrom Road, Fiddletown — Enjoy a flight of five wines plus a barrel sample of an upcoming vintage to be bottled.

ROMBAUER

VINEYARDS, 12225

Steiner Rd, Plymouth — Rombauer is all about barrels this Behind the Cellar Door. Hear from the winemakers as guests see, taste and touch the impacts and the differences of barrel choices on the wine itself. This educational, interactive and fun experience will open your eyes to the nuances of every decision in the winemaking process and the infinite possibilities behind the cellar door. In addition to the barrel sample, there will be a pouring of favorite wines and light bites.

RUBIDOUX RIDGE

VINEYARD, 15000

Tyler Road, Fiddletown — Rubidoux is a small family run vineyard that has been growing and managing 5 acres with five varieties of wine grapes (primarily Italian varieties) for more than 10 years. The family takes pride in the five wine varieties the vineyard produces by its sun exposure and 2,100-foot elevation in the Sierra foothills. Enjoy the sparkling and still red and white wines and learn the art of twobud pruning which will bring forth the amazing harvest for 2024. Get a taste of Italy with the pasta pairings.

SOBON ESTATE, 14430 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Enjoy new release wines with excellent food pairings.

SCOTT HARVEY WINES, 10861

Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Explore the evolution of the wines, from barrel to wine cellar, with a guided tasting that delves into the aging process and the transformations that occur. Enjoy the tasting experience with a thoughtfully curated food pairing.

SHENANDOAH

VINEYARDS, 12300

Steiner Road, Plymouth — Enjoy new release wines with excellent food pairings.

STORY WINERY, 10525 Bell Road, Plymouth — Guests will be offered five tastings, which include Story legacy wines as well as Old World Georgian style wines made in Qvevri (500 gallon clay pots), small bites of Georgian food and live music. There will also be a tour of the winemaking site with huge clay pots where the

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Georgian Amber wines are made.

TANIS VINEYARDS, 13120 Willow Creek Road, Ione — Tanis will pair five red wines, including Tannat and Pinotage, with custom chocolates for each wine. There will be barrel sampling of the newest vintage of Mission.

TENERAL CELLARS AT WILDEROTTER VINEYARD, 19890

Shenandoah School Road, Plymouth — Enjoy five wines with five thoughtful food pairings and a blind wine-tasting bar.

TERRA D’ORO

WINERY, 20680

Shenandoah School Road, Plymouth —

Enjoy a tasting of core wines along with three tastes from three different barrel types with the winemaker. The wine flight will include a cheese pairing featuring local artisan cheeses.

TERRE ROUGE

& EASTON WINES, 10801 Dickson Road, Plymouth — Hone your tasting skills while tasting six secret wines at a seated experience. See if you can guess the varietal and vintage. Enjoy Jane’s food pairings while playing the game. Prizes will be awarded.

TKC VINEYARDS, 11001 Valley Drive, Plymouth — TKC will serve salmon chowder and assorted Italian appetizers to compliment the wines Zinfandel, Mourvedre, red wine blends and Port. Meet and greet the winemaker.

TURLEY WINE

CELLARS, 10851

Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Did you know that Turley Wine

Cellars works with more old vine vineyards than any other winery in the world? None of this would be possible without the Old Vines wine, home to fruit sourced from these many salvaged old-vine sites across California. If it weren’t for this cuvée, many of these vineyards would have been lost, along with over a century of our cultural heritage. Join the Turley team for a curated retrospective tasting of the beloved Old Vines Zinfandel, along with three distinctly unique single vineyard

bottlings sourced from centenarian vineyards. Each wine has been paired with a small bite. Make your reservation for 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. and join Amador winemaker Nick Finarelli in the estate-owned Norton Vineyard, as he shares vineyard cultivation practices along with a couple of rare bonus pours. Reservations required.

VINO NOCETO, 11011 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth — Come to Noceto for the best sangiovese in California and feel like you’re taking a trip to Italy.

The Nutty Crew will taste guests through the history and flavor profile of four award-winning wines and an additional tasting straight from the barrel. Scrumptious wood-fired pizza will be provided by Blue Stone Pizza and toe-tapping music will be playing all day Saturday.

The Amador Vintners Association is a membershipbased organization representing more than 45 extraordinary vintners who craft wines within the Amador County AVA. Learn more at amadorwine.