Mountain Democrat, Friday, May 10, 2024

FARM DAY FUN

across the county participated in a range of farm- and natural resources-related activities and presentations at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville Tuesday.

■ Ag program encourages growing minds

Odin Rasco Sta writer

The El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville was abuzz with excitement as more than 1,400 third graders from across the county flocked to Ag in the Classroom’s 22nd annual Farm Day Tuesday morning. Students from schools throughout the county were able to directly interact with multiple facets of El Dorado County’s rich agricultural and environmental resources

PLACE

City Council finalizing its public art plan

Odin Rasco

A coordinated and cohesive master plan for public art in Placerville is coming soon, with a draft of the plan now under review by the city’s Recreation and Parks Commission.

Placerville City Council entered into an agreement with Arts and Culture El Dorado in 2022 to commission a public art plan that would “establish a vision, standards and funding strategies for art on public property that may come before the City Council,” according to an April 9 city manager’s report. The plan would create clear guidelines and processes for how the city could acquire and install public art at parks and other city sites.

The plan was developed with th e help of Art Builds Community, a California-based public art planning firm. ACED hired ABC with the help of a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts

County’s ARPA spending plan gets adjustments

Eric Jaramishian

Sta writer

El Dorado County leaders have shifted some of the $37.5 million American Rescue Plan Act revenue received, including using $10 million to cover lost revenue.

To help achieve this, previously $4.5 million allocated for broadband projects will be put to other uses.

The new proposed spending plan for the entirety of ARPA funds, which includes allocating $19.4 million to cover the public health emergency and negative economic impacts, $8.6 million in water and sewer infrastructure and approximately $8.6 million in replacing lost public sector revenue, was unanimously approved by the Board of Supervisors April 30. No money will go to fixing transportation or community development due to the small list of ARPA fund’s allowed uses in that category.

Natural disasters cost reimbursement will include $52,000 in newly allocated funds and program administrations will receive $778,746. All funds must be obligated for use by Dec. 31 and used by 2026.

“We have three goals in our o ce when we are looking at the administration of the APRA. We don’t want to return any of the funding to the federal government, we want to make sure that El Dorado County uses and keeps our full allocation of the funding (and) want to meet all the reporting deadlines and obligation deadline for ARPA … and to reduce the risk of any audit,” said Emma Owens, a principal analyst for the Chief Administrative O ce.

Other changes include the county allocating more than $3.1 million to o set costs to ambulance services in the Tahoe Basin due to COVID-19 pandemic impacts. The board made two previous contributions in the amount of $1,025,000 and more than $2.1 million, which are all eligible as pandemic impacts, according to Owens.

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

Students from Indian Creek and Meyers Elementary schools participate in a race to lay and connect an irrigation line run by Chris Delfino from Camino’s Delfino Farms as part of El Dorado County Ag in the Classroom’s 22nd annual Farm Day. Third graders from

Rescue Elementary School student Dylan places an orange paint-smeared hand onto a lamb brought to farm day by Ponderosa High School FFA students. By the end of the day, the lamb’s wool was a vibrant canvas covered in small handprints.

Buckeye Elementary School students tear moistened strips of newspaper to serve as part of the bedding in worm boxes created by their classmates, providing worms a chance to enjoy the Mountain Democrat.

David “Lem” Fusano

Dec . 25, 1957– May 1, 2024

In loving memory of David “Lem” Fusano.

David James Fusano, of El Dorado, California, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2024, at the age of 66 surrounded by family and loved ones.

David, fondly known as Lem then later on, Lempa to his grandchildren and great grandchildren, was born to John and Anita Fusano, on December 25,1957, in San Fernando, California. Lem attended Bishop Alemany High School in Mission Hills, California graduating in 1976. Lem lived in Sylmar, California where he owned and operated Kwik Market & Deli from 1977 to 2001. Later on in 2001, he moved to Northern California to the town of El Dorado, where he owned and operated Ji y Mart in Diamond Springs until his passing.

Hard working, dedicated to his family, Lem was first and foremost a good father. Embracing the roll of both parents, he skillfully juggled work, school activities and sports. If he wasn’t on the field, a court or baseline coaching one of his kid’s teams he was in the stands cheering them on, never missing a game. He raised his children with endless love and continuous support.

He taught by exemplifying his values, kindness and humility. Known for his incredible sense of humor and quick wit, he was loved by all who knew him.

Lem was an easy-goer. A one of a kind, a classic. He will be missed but never be forgotten.

Lem is survived by his children; Trina (Jason), Angie (Danny), Paul (Lauri) and Marcia (Shauna), 5 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, his brother Joe; 3 sisters Rose Anne, Annie and Marlene. Lem was preceded in death by his parents, John “Umpa” and Anita “GiGi”, and 3 brothers; Chris “Crue”, John “Beany” and Paul “Vanda”.

A Celebration of Lem’s Life will be held on May 17, 2024 at Fausel Farm Ranch, 4881 Hanks Exchange Rd., Placerville, California 95667. The Reception honoring his life will begin at 4:00 pm.

“Sorry you’re not here Lem!”

Jerry & Louise Culver

June 13, 1931 – April 3, 2024

July 18, 1931 – Aug. 17, 2022

Jerry Culver, loved by many, passed away in Newport, Oregon on April 3, 2024. Jerry joined his wife of 75 year, Louise Culver, who passed away on August 17 of 2022. They raised 3 boys, Mark, David and Jon. Jerry and Louise loved life and found the joy in experiencing it together. They loved to travel and collect treasures. Jerry was always active in the community and volunteered in El Dorado County for many years. The Jeepers Jamboree was always one of Pop’s favorite experiences and then fishing in Alaska with his twin brother Jim Culver. Mom loved planning for her family gatherings and every year seeing the Fall colors on their adventures while traveling in the Sierras.

Jerry was born in Los Angeles, California in 1931. He met Louise at Grossmont High School and they were married in 1948. Jerry had a variety of jobs in his younger days but working in the Forest Service and driving a log truck were his favorite. In the late 60s Jerry and Louise moved to Placerville. Pop continued to drive a log truck until there was an accident on the landing and he lost a leg. Not being able to drive a truck any longer he commuted to Sacramento 5 nights a week for 8 years and earned his law degree. He practiced law in Placerville for a number of years. Jerry and Louise moved to Santa Rosa for a few years and then they really wanted to be back in Placerville and so they found a home in El Dorado and lived there until Louise passed and then Jerry moved to Oregon to live with his son Mark and his wife.

Jerry and Louise were the kind of people that made friends wherever they went and they always knew someone every place they went. We will always remember them for their gracious hearts and caring spirits and will miss them every day. We will always be grateful for our time together and will carry you in our hearts until we meet again. Rest in peace Mom and Pop.

DON’T MISS

Tesla alert helps locate crash

Odin Rasco Sta writer

First responders were led to the scene of a fatal car crash in Pollock Pines Tuesday morning by information sent from the car itself, according to o cials with the El Dorado County Fire Protection District.

Fire engines and medics received “vague reports” of a vehicle accident near Outer Limits Lane in Pollock Pines near Fresh Pond and were dispatched at 10:54 a.m. Initially, emergency crews reported di culty in locating the car. The wife of the vehicle’s driver, Roseville resident Seth Cohen, had received a notification from the Tesla involved indicating the car had been in an accident and was immobilized. The notification included location data which EDCFPD Engine 17 used to map a route to the crash site, according to a post on the EDCFPD Facebook page.

The vehicle was discovered 300 feet

down a hillside north of Highway 50. The plunge downhill had resulted in Cohen, 43, being ejected and he was pronounced dead at the scene by medics; he had su ered massive blunt force trauma as a result of the incident.

Two booster seats were discovered in the vehicle, but phone communication with

Cohen’s wife confirmed the family’s children were at home.

Cal Fire and California Conservation Corps crews in the area at the time of the call stopped to assist EDCFPD crews with the tricky and labor-intensive hillside scene.

The cause and circumstances of the solo vehicle wreck are currently under investigation, according to California Highway Patrol O cer Andrew Brown. No other vehicles are suspected of being involved in the incident. The time of the crash is still being investigated, but is suspected to have happened Tuesday morning, according to Brown.

Gaines to join Taxpayers Association for breakfast

News release

Ted Gaines, vice chairman of the state Board of Equalization and former member of the state Legislature, will speak to the Taxpayers Association of El Dorado County, 7:30 a.m. Monday, May 13, at Denny’s in Placerville.

Gaines represents the Board of Equalization’s 1st District. He is a leading taxpayer advocate

The following information was take from EDSO reports:

April 28

10:49 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 31-year-old man suspected of being a felon in possession of a rearm, bribery and a probation violation on Cameron Road in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody in lieu of $20,000 bail.

11:43 a.m. Vehicle burglary was reported on Parkdale Lane in Cameron Park.

12:03 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a

CONTACT US

Richard B. Esposito Publisher (530) 344-5055 / resposito@mtdemocrat.net

Noel Stack Editor

530-344-5073 / nstack@villagelife.net

Mimi Escabar Special Sections Editor 530-344-5070 / mescabar@mtdemocrat.net

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer 530-344-5063 / eric@mtdemocrat.com Odin Rasco Staff writer 530-344-5062 / odin@mtdemocrat.com

and committed to providing transparent representation for the nearly 10 million constituents in 34 counties of northern and eastern California. He is the highest ranked Republican elected o cial in the state. Prior to his election to the board, Gaines served 12 years in the state Legislature where he was a tireless voice for California’s taxpayers, ratepayers,

49-year-old man suspected of burglary and grand theft on Sly Park Road in Pollock Pines. He was released on $75,000 bail.

1:19 p.m. Battery was reported on Sterling Way in Cameron Park.

1:30 p.m. Battery was reported on Coon Hollow Road in Placerville.

5:31 p.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported at a store on Highway 49 in Diamond Springs.

8:11 p.m. California Highway Patrol

o cers booked into jail a 50-year-old man suspected of DUI on Highway

MISSED DELIVERY

Call

VACATION HOLDS

businesses and families.

Gaines began his public service career in local government as a member of the city of Roseville’s Planning Commission, 1997-99. In 2000 he was elected to the Placer County Board of Supervisors and re-elected in 2004.

Gaines is also a small business owner, having owned Gaines Insurance Agency for more than 30 years. He has been married to his wife Beth since 1985 and together they reside in El Dorado County and are blessed with six children and nine grandchildren.

50 (town not speci ed). He was later released.

8:38 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Broadway in Placerville.

8:53 p.m. Battery was reported on Gutierrez Place in El Dorado Hills.

April 29

12:32 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 42-year-old man suspected of being a prohibited person in possession of ammunition and a probation violation on Ponderosa Road in Shingle Springs. He was released on $20,000 bail.

1:09 a.m. California Highway Patrol o cers booked into jail a 60-year-old woman suspected of DUI, driving on a suspended license and being a restricted driver operating a vehicle without an interlock device on Forni Road in Placerville. She was released on $35,000 bail.

5:04 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 49-year-old woman suspected of vehicle theft on Mosquito Road in Placerville. She was released on $40,000 bail.

9:05 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a winery on Carson Court in Camino.

9:29 a.m. Grand theft was reported on El Dorado Road in Placerville.

bi-monthly in the

Malachi Parker Staff writer Malachi@mtdemocrat.com GRAPHICS

Letty Bejarano-Carvajal

Graphics Manager (530) 344-5049 / lettyb@mtdemocrat.net

11:15 a.m. Battery was reported at a pharmacy on Palmer Drive in Cameron Park.

11:57 a.m. Grand theft was reported at a facility on Ponte Morino Drive in Cameron Park.

12:07 p.m. California Highway Patrol

Courtesy photo

The Tesla descended a steep hillside north of Highway 50 and the force of the incident ejected the driver from the car, who was pronounced dead at the scene by medics.

TED GAINES

Learn about equipment used to reduce fire fuel

The El Dorado and Georgetown

Global Machinery and FAE USA invite the public to Heavy Equipment Demonstration Day, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 15 at 500 Placerville Drive in Placerville.

Everyone is welcome.

As part of the Placerville Wildfire Resilience Strategy, conservation

district staff would like to increase public awareness about the types of equipment used to treat fuels in and around communities. There will be a variety of equipment that specializes on steep-slopes, stump grinding, mastication, chippers and remote operation units.

Guests can watch live demos while they eat complimentary hot dogs. Experts are on hand to answer all questions about equipment and fuel reduction treatments.

Live demonstration shows effectiveness of wildfire mitigation

ROSEVILLE — The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, in collaboration with Cal Fire’s Office of the State Fire Marshal, showed the effectiveness of research-based wildfire mitigation during a live burn demonstration conducted as part of Wildfire Preparedness Week. Based on the latest research, IBHS’s Wildfire Prepared Home program provides a system of actions Californians can take to meaningfully reduce their home’s chance of ignition from embers, including creating defensible space.

The demonstration highlighted the importance of maintaining a noncombustible 5-foot buffer zone, termed Zone 0, around residential structures to mitigate the risk of ignition during wildfires.

Emphasizing the significance of this effort, IBHS CEO Roy Wright said, “This is a new mindset. While moving shrubs 5 feet from your home may not be the traditional method of landscaping, it provides the best opportunity to have a house to come home to when a wildfire comes through. It limits your exposure to embers. And the good news is there are attractive ways to do this so that homeowners can both mitigate their wildfire risk and maintain curb appeal.”

Demonstrations of this nature provide a comparative analysis of the impact of fire behavior on structures with and without mitigation measures in place and underscore the critical role of Zone 0 in preventing home

ignitions, emphasizing the need for timely action given the approaching peak wildfire season.

State Fire Marshal Chief Daniel Berlant further emphasized how this demonstration should encourage Californians to take steps to harden their homes and create defensible space around their property.

“Although California received a substantial amount of rain this past winter, we must prepare ourselves for peak wildfire season now as the grass is already growing tall across the state. This demonstration showed how vulnerable a home can be and how much of a difference taking steps to prepare for wildfire can make,” urged Berlant. “Now is the time to prepare your home for peak wildfire season. A few quick steps to take include removing all combustible materials, like vegetation and mulch, within 5 feet of your home, clearing your roof and gutters of leaves and debris and repairing holes or gaps greater than 1/8 inch in exterior siding, including vents.”

Beyond establishing a noncombustible Zone 0, Wildfire Prepared Home addresses other vulnerable areas of a home with a Class A roof and ember-resistant exterior home features such as gutters and vents.

For added protection against flames and radiant heat, IBHS offers another designation level — Wildfire Prepared Home Plus.

Camp Fire survivor Gary Ledbetter, whose home was the first recipient of the Wildfire Prepared Home Plus

Photo courtesy of Cal Fire

Cal Fire News release

County seeks comment Texas Hill rezone

News release

El Dorado County is soliciting written comments from public agencies, organizations, tribes and individuals regarding the scope and content of the environmental document for the Texas Hill Reservoir Rezone and General Plan Amendment Project. The county will be the lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act for preparation of a focused environmental impact report.

The project is located in unincorporated El Dorado County on the north side of Pleasant Valley Road at the intersection with Big Cut Road, approximately 1.7 miles south of the city of Placerville.

The project consists of a General Plan amendment to remove the existing Texas Hill Reservoir take line from the General Plan land use map and change the existing General Plan land use designation of Open Space for 120 parcels within the mapped Texas Hill Reservoir take line to appropriate designations that allow

for residential uses consistent with the existing designations of adjacent parcels outside of the project area. Further, as the project includes the removal of the Texas Hill Reservoir take line from the General Plan land use map, site specific General Plan Policy 2.2.6.5 would also be removed from the General Plan Land Use Element.

Of the 120 affected parcels, 53 parcels are privately owned (approximately 44%) and 67 parcels (approximately 56%) are owned by the El Dorado Irrigation District. As the above General Plan amendment and rezone would allow for new residential uses in the project area, the focused EIR will assume the potential for up to 80 new singlefamily homes and 10 new accessory dwelling units within the project boundary because there are 80 undeveloped lots within the project boundary and the addition of 10 ADUs is a conservative estimate.

Based on a preliminary environmental review prepared for the project, the county has

determined that the following range of issues identified in the CEQA guidelines shall be addressed in the focused EIR: air quality, biological resources, cultural resources, greenhouse gas emissions, noise and vibration. In addition, the focused EIR will also evaluate the potential cumulative and growth-inducing

effects of the project, as required by CEQA. Reasonably foreseeable future projects will be considered in the focused EIR. Comments and suggestions are requested regarding the environmental issues that will be

Chronic wasting disease has been detected for the first time in California’s deer and elk. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife received confirmation on May 6 samples collected from two deer, one in Madera County near Yosemite Lakes and the other in Inyo County, near Bishop. The deer in Madera County was found dead due to unknown causes and the Inyo County deer was found dead after a vehicle collision.

CWD is a fatal neurologic disease in cervid animals such as deer, elk, moose and reindeer that has been detected in free-ranging cervids from 34 states, including California, and five Canadian provinces as well as Scandinavia. It affects the brain, causing progressive damage and eventually, death. There is no effective treatment or vaccine to combat this disease.

There appears to be no known link between CWD and human disease, although a similar prion animal disease, bovine spongiform encephalopathy or mad cow disease in cattle, has been linked to fatal disease in humans through the consumption of infected beef. As a result the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend keeping the agents of all known prion diseases from entering the human food chain.

CDFW has been monitoring California elk and deer populations for CWD through lymph node sampling and testing since 2000,

testing more than 6,500 deer and elk, and has been working to increase surveillance efforts with the help of hunters, taxidermists and meat processors since 2018.

Clinical signs of the disease include progressive weight loss, clumsy movements and lack of coordination, listlessness, drooling, excessive thirst or urination and behavioral changes. Once these symptoms develop death occurs quickly.

The disparate locations of these two detections indicates that CWD has probably been present in California for some time, since the incubation period can be months to years.

“CWD infected animals can excrete infectious prions before clinical signs appear and these prions can persist in the environment for years, making it very difficult to prevent or control the spread once it has been introduced,” says, Dr. Brandon Munk, CDFW’s wildlife veterinarian who oversees CWD surveillance and response efforts. “The public can help limit the spread of CWD by reporting any signs of illness in deer and elk populations, and hunters should strongly consider testing their harvested deer or elk.” CDFW continues to provide surveillance, response, long-term management plans and public outreach and education through their “No Time to Waste” campaign to limit the spread. Hunters can assist in the efforts by voluntarily participating in CDFW’s statewide CWD surveillance and sampling efforts and encouraging other hunters to participate.

To report a sick deer or elk and learn more visit wildlife.ca.gov/ Conservation/Laboratories and click on the Wildlife Health Lab link.

abiding business owners and are using thug tactics to extort them in clear violation of the law. Timely reporting of attempted extortion to the authorities will help law enforcement to identify and disrupt this criminal scheme, ensuring the safety and economic security of the community.”

The FBI and its law enforcement partners urge the public to report these crimes to ensure the individuals committing these alleged crimes face justice. “We are deeply concerned for the safety and economic security of our neighbors of Indian descent who have been targeted,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily, who leads the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “Criminals are targeting hard working, law-

In recent extortion attempts, subjects demanded a large sum of money and threatened physical violence or death if the demand was not met. Individuals who disregarded the demands subsequently became victims of violence, to include targeted shootings at their residences and vehicles.

Anyone who believes they are in immediate danger should call 911. Threats of violence intended to extort victims for a specified sum can be reported to the FBI by calling the local field office, submitting a tip online at tips.fbi.gov, or calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). The FBI can connect callers with language services to ensure clear communication for callers.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife News release

Mother’s Day Madness brings four divisions to Placerville Speedway

The Thunder in the Foothills championship season reconvenes this Saturday at Placerville Speedway at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville with another four-division program taking place on Mother’s Day Madness Saturday.

The Russell Motorsports Inc. managed facility presents an eclectic show featuring the Thompson’s Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Mountain Democrat Ltd. Late Models, Red Hawk Casino Pure Stocks and Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks.

Happy Hour entertainment presented by Hirst Home Team will showcase live music by Kyliana Mari, 4-6 p.m.

“We can’t think of a better way to celebrate mom than to bring her out to the races this Saturday at Placerville Speedway,” said RMI President Scott Russell. “It’s always a

great show when you have all four of our points paying divisions. We are expecting another good car count, so hopefully everyone will come out and pack the grandstands.”

Shane Golobic opened the Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Car season in victory lane on April 27 during the Tribute to Al Hinds. He was followed across the line that night by Dylan Bloomfield, Landon Brooks, Justin Sanders and Tanner Carrick.

This Saturday’s event will be race three for both the ltd. late models and pure stocks. Dan Brown Jr. and Anthony Slaney have captured the first two late model features of the year. On the pure stock side of things Nick Baldwin and Kevin Jinkerson have claimed the first two rounds. Mini trucks launched their season on April 20, an event that multitime track champion Mike Miller of Placerville captured. The mini truck

n See SPEEDWAY, page A8

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — The call for country and Olympic team unity has Stephen Curry lacing up his basketball shoes for Paris and setting his golf clubs aside this July, foregoing his title defense at the American Century Championship, the celebrity golf tournament at Lake Tahoe.

“I’m disappointed that I won’t be able to defend my title at the American Century Championship in Tahoe this summer, but the chance to represent my country and, hopefully, win an Olympic gold medal the first time at the 2024 Games in Paris is an opportunity that I simply could not pass up,” said Curry. “I look forward to returning to the shores of Lake Tahoe and creating more memories next July and in subsequent years. In the interim, I know that Dell and Seth will represent the Curry family well in my absence, but if one of them doesn’t come home with another trophy for our mantel, I will be highly disappointed!”

“Well, we’ve discovered that the only thing Stephen Curry can’t do is be in two places at once,” said Jon Miller, President, NBC Sports Acquisitions and Partnerships. “Obviously, the tournament and our fans are as disappointed as Steph that he can’t

be here, but representing our country at the Olympics and going for gold is a proud priority to support. We wish Team USA and our entire Olympic contingent well and look forward to having Steph defend his American Century title in 2025.”

Curry won the 2023 championship with the same flair he’s displayed on the basketball court throughout his career. He carded four eagles in three days of tournament play, including a hole-in-one during the second round and a scintillating, clutch do-or-die, 18-foot putt on the final hole to capture the title. In winning, Curry became the first active athlete in 23 years to claim the title (Al Del Greco, Tennessee Titans), and the first African-American in the tournament’s 35 years. (americancenturychampionship.com)

In addition to Dell and Seth, the tournament will feature 84 sports and entertainment celebrities competing at Edgewood Tahoe, July 12-14, preceded by a Wednesday practice round and the Thursday Celebrity-Am, July 10-11. The field represents a collection of Hall of Famers, All-Pros, All-Stars and fan favorites including Charles Barkley, Tony Romo, Josh Allen, Jerry Rice,

n See CURRY, page A8

Photo by Laney Griffo / Tahoe Daily Tribune Dell, Stephen and Seth Curry, from left, are all smiles after Steph took home the American Century Championship trophy last summer.

News release

OPINION

California Commentary

Enough bonds already!

Back in 2010, thenchairman of the Joint Chiefs of Sta Admiral Michael Mullen said, “The most significant threat to our national security is our debt.” At the time, our national debt was “only” $14.3 trillion. Today, it is more than double that. Debt service — payment of interest on the debt — is expected to cost Americans $1 trillion annually. That amount is larger than our annual outlays for defense.

California has its own debt crisis but, unlike the federal government, it cannot print money. Instead, California reacts to high levels of government debt by spending more money, proposing more debt and papering over the problem with opaque budget gimmicks.

Richard B. Esposito Publisher

Letters to the Editor

From brain cancer survivor to advocate

EDITOR:

Trump vs. Biden: Are you better o today?

Life can change in an instant, and my journey over the past 13 years has been a testament to that truth. I was diagnosed with brain cancer, which forever altered the course of my existence. The path was grueling, but after getting chemotherapy, radiation and 50 brain MRIs I finally received the news I longed for: all was clear. But even with this victory, I found myself struggling with my mental health.

EDITOR:

It seems everyone hates President Trump. It’s fashionable. A recent article stated people can’t distinguish between Trump’s character and his virtues: the former was deeply flawed and the latter generally very good. So how does Trump’s administration compare to the Biden administration?

From the perspective of taxpayers, there have

been

very

If there is any good news, it appears that California voters are starting to appreciate the scope of the problem. The recent statewide bond measure to address homelessness, Proposition 1, barely passed. This was notable because the assumption among political observers was that it would easily pass given all the advantages it had: a sympathetic cause, a broad-based coalition of nearly all the interest groups and the personal backing of Gov. Gavin Newsom and his prodigious fundraising apparatus.

few worthwhile state bond proposals

since Jerry Brown’s father, Gov. Pat Brown, built much of the infrastructure in California that we use today.

Another stroke of luck for the governor and other Prop. 1 proponents was the fact that the election was held just prior to the release of a scathing report from the state auditor questioning the e ectiveness of the state’s expenditure of $24 billion over the last five years on the homelessness crisis. Had voters been aware that the state fails to track whether all that spending on the crisis is doing any good at all, Prop. 1 would likely have failed.

Proving that the close call on Prop. 1 hasn’t satisfied politicians’ appetite for more debt, Assemblywoman Bu y Wicks, D-Oakland, has introduced Assembly Bill 1657, which proposes a $10 billion bond to fund existing housing programs, including those funding rental and supportive developments, home loans and farmworker housing. Although the language of AB 1657 is a moving target, it appears to reflect the same infirmities as Prop. 1, including a lack of specificity in how the bond proceeds will be used and whether debt financing that takes 30 years to repay should be used for anything other than a

The Not So Weekly Daley

The last time I worked was Aug. 10, 2010. Since then I have become a parent to three children, a role I cherish deeply. My daily routine consists of preparing breakfast, taking the kids to school and ensuring they come home to a warm meal. While I still yearn for a traditional job, my children and my wife keep me motivated. I am resolved to use my experience with cancer to make a di erence.

We have all been a ected by this disease in one way or another. In 2024, 193,880 Californians are expected to be diagnosed with cancer and, unfortunately, an estimated 59,930 will die from the disease. Our lawmakers play a critical role in helping get these numbers down. At the federal level, for example, they can include robust funding for cancer research, which leads to new treatments and care that improve and prolong the lives of cancer patients.

That is why I have joined thousands of patients, survivors, caregivers and advocates from across the state and country in becoming a volunteer for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. Together, we use our voices to advocate for public policy change to save lives from cancer.

Many of us have seen the devastating toll this disease can have physically, mentally, emotionally and financially. Knowing we can prevent this from happening to others is empowering. But that knowledge means we must do something about it.

May is Brain Cancer Awareness Month. As I reflect on my journey and think about the next 13 years, I know there will be challenges but mainly hope. I hope to see my children grow, make happy memories with my wife and help end cancer as we know it, for everyone. To join me in advocating for cancer patients and survivors on the local, state and federal levels visit FightCancer.org.

QAIS ARSALA El Dorado Hills

Illegal immigration at the southern border: There were about 2 million immigrants during the four Trump years while there have been about 6 million in the first three years of the Biden administration, according to Border Patrol data. Taxes: President Biden claims the 2017 Trump tax cut favored the wealthy. The cut reduced rates for all taxpayers, according to the nonpartisan Tax Foundation. The tax owed by all payers in 2018 decreased by $64 billion but the 1.6 million taxpayers earning more than $500,000 saw their taxes increase by $16 billion. Their share of total income was 22% but their taxes increased by 2.3% to 40% of total taxes. Thirty five million taxpayers earning between $50,000 to $100,000 (middle class) owed $31 billion less in taxes than in 2017. They received half of the tax reduction. Regulations: The United States is highly regulated. It’s easier to start a business and get electricity in the UK than in the U.S. The Trump administration reduced regulation growth the first two years from about 80,000 pages/year to 62,000 pages/year. Biden issued 75% more major rules in the first 18 months than Trump did. The regulatory costs of the Biden, Trump and Obama administrations were $616 billion, $323 billion and $535 billion, respectively, according to economics Professor Casey Mulligan at the University of Chicago.

Inflation: Inflation averaged about 1.9% over the Trump years. It has averaged 5.7% to date under Biden and peaked at 9.1% in 2022 — the highest in 40 years. The rate is closer to 18% if car and house payments are included. The prices that consumers pay are probably the most notable way to calculate inflation. Prices are up 22% under Biden according to the St Louis Federal Reserve. Deficits: President Biden claims the Trump tax

‘Current Events’ recalled; current events reviewed

Remember grade school when we had to get up in front of the class and “share” aka “show and tell” or some other term like “embarrass your family?” Or even worse, embarrass yourself, especially in front of that special Johnny or Janey? Well, I do. This isn’t about that, but it is about current events. Today’s current events consist of Donald Trump, the Trump trial (soon to be trials), where’s Melania?, “Michael Cohen is a convicted liar,” Hope Hicks and David Pecker (I challenge you to say that without a smirk). Plus, “conflicted Judge Juan Merchan” and, of course, Stormy and Karen.

Remember when there was a war going on over there in Ukraine and that funky little strip of Gaza, which is by Egypt if I recall my Middle East geography. Sixth grade, was it?

Those were what we used to call

“Current Events.”

Humans went to the moon and Russia was called the USSR. Check the Beatles’ “Back in the U.S.S.R.” to refresh your memory. Although, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics sounds cooler and way more exotic in Russian. Nixon made a secret trip to Red China, now simply China, sometimes Communist China, depending upon the particular media or politicians you pay attention to. Alaska and Hawaii became the 49th and 50th states back when we had current events with capital letters. A war in Vietnam went on for about 75 years despite the “fact” that the U.S. and our couple of allies routinely killed at least 18,423 Viet Congs every day, according to current events at the time.

Do you realize Eric is the only Trump family member to attend the Trump trial? And it was only one time, according to current events

today. That seems a little cold and dark.

I remember when this country used to have racism. Many times on family road trips to and from Florida, I saw signs on bathroom doors throughout the south that said “White” or “Colored,” on drinking fountains too, mostly before 1964 but also somewhat later. Current Events referred to that as segregation in those days.

The “Ole Miss” Campus in Oxford, Miss., even had a little touch of racism just the other day. It was on real current events, very briefly though. (Full disclosure: None of that history makes me special — just ‘Ole.’)

Georgia Congressman Mike Collins, bless his heart, explained it away as “Ole Miss taking care of business.” I’d bet he said “bidness,” but I didn’t actually hear it live on air. Getting back to current events, Michael Cohen and Kellyanne Conway (of “alternative facts” fame) were possibly expected to testify in the Trump hush money trial this week. There’s a convicted liar and

one who should have been, in my opinion.

The former president was also smacked with a contempt of court charge, if I heard Monday’s current events story accurately. It was based on his violation of one element of the “gag order” imposed by Justice Merchan. I learned he’s called justice rather than judge due to New York’s State Supreme Court structure. Further, he said he really doesn’t want to jail Trump, but he will if Trump keeps breaking the gag — 10 times so far, the justice wrote. Only one easily convictable, evidently.

As of late Monday, Hamas has reportedly agreed to some negotiations proposed by Qatar and Egypt for a ceasefire in the Gaza war. However, reports also clarified that the proposal is not one Israel helped develop. So, now it’s Current Events, but it may only be regular current events again come Friday.

A bunch of other current events happened this week and surely a few Current Events; am I right?!

Chris Daley is a biweekly columnist for the Mountain Democrat.

CHRIS DALEY

JON COUPAL

Coupal Continued from A6

“single work or purpose” as required by the state constitution.

AB 1657 isn’t the only bond proposal bouncing around inside the Capitol. New debt totaling billions is being proposed for campus modernization, climate change and drug addiction.

Speaking of addiction, a real problem for debt addicts is that this November’s election will look a lot different from March when there was only one bond measure on the ballot. Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas has justifiably expressed concerns that too many bond proposals could sink them all.

From the perspective of taxpayers, there have been very few worthwhile state bond proposals since Jerry Brown’s father, Gov. Pat Brown, built much of the infrastructure in California that we use today. But those “brick and mortar” projects like dams, aqueducts and highways were built quickly and efficiently at a cost palatable to voters.

cuts caused major deficits. That’s not true because revenues increased after the tax cut and remained at 16.3% of gross domestic product. There was a massive increase in spending in the second two years due to COVID. The Biden years are very different. There are no significant emergencies yet fiscal deficits are about 8% of GDP, double the first two years of the Trump presidency. Revenues are up to 18% of GDP. Despite higher revenues deficits are even higher. The Trump tax cuts did not cause

Can that be said of the high-speed rail bond or the $5.5 billion regenerative medicine bond?

Another difference between Prop. 1 and any bond that may appear in November is that voter anger is only growing. The auditor’s report is one thing, but Public Policy Institute of California polling reveals voter perception of the level of government waste is off the charts.

And the bitter icing on the cake is ACA 1, a proposal to make passing bonds at the local level even easier by repealing the requirement that such bonds need approval by two-thirds of the voters — a requirement that has been in the state constitution since 1879. If ACA 1 remains on the ballot — the Legislature could remove it — don’t be surprised by a hostile response from the electorate on a level reminiscent of 1978.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

higher deficits; it’s the spending increases.

Media bias is obvious in the research I did for this letter. Top search results on the issues were from mainstream media such as NBC, CBS, NYT and NPR. The articles were slanted to favor the Biden administration. Only by going to the data source such as the SLFED and the Border Patrol website can reliable data be found.

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. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.

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

TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that 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.

DARWIN THRONE El Dorado Hills

COMICS

in addition to $10,000 contributed by the city. ABC consulted with individuals and organizations in the city, conducted focus groups and undertook historical research to produce a draft of the plan that was presented to the council last month. Building on city planning documents, community design standards set in 1990 and goals established in the city’s 2022 strategic plan, the art plan also incorporates information gathered through a series of public workshops, city tours and focus groups.

A proposed final draft of the plan was submitted by ACED to the city at the end of February, according to city documents. The plan identified three guiding principles for what recommendations to make: tell all stories; respect the past, honor the present and embrace the future; and celebrate the natural environment.

The plan also identified key goals for the plan, which included supporting local artists, creating spaces for celebrations for live performances and celebrations and enlivening retail districts across the city.

Though the council was originally scheduled to vote on approving and enacting the plan during its April 9 meeting, Mayor Jackie Neau suggested treating the presented plan as a draft in order to allow for further revision and public input.

City Manager Cleve Morris agreed, explaining city staff believed in the importance of the plan but wanted to make sure the council’s opinions and insights were taken into account.

“I agree with Mayor Neau and have had discussions regarding delaying actual adoption to take more time to review,” Morris said. “We think this is a good plan. It’s a strategic plan and we want to do it. Give us your comments and concerns, both good and bad, so we can move forward.”

Though many suggestions made

Demonstration

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ll wonder if you can enrich your life with new experiences without neglecting your current inner circle. They’ll feel it when you do things, and some will be worried about the changes, but you’re supposed to change. We all are.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Many of your limitations are illusions. You’ll keep looking at them from different angles and you’ll have the breakthrough in awareness that allows a perspective shift in which you see your way around, over and through them.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Of course, the company you’re with makes all the difference. Around certain people you seem to relax while also somehow getting sharper and more excited about life, and you naturally focus on vivid and joyful details.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). From time to time everyone moving along life’s path will stub a toe -- evidence of forward movement. When it happens, praise yourself for your progress and walk off the pain that can never belong to one who is standing still.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The work you are doing may be serious, but your attitude doesn’t have to be. You can do meticulous work in a bright, relaxed mood. Stay flexible in the moment and you’ll settle into your most effective tone. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You will take pleasure in observing the intricate dance of human behavior. Delving into people’s motivations and reactions offers not just strategic insights but also a deeper appreciation for the complexities that drive us.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Avoid sharing first-world problems with those who have seen real hardship. Experienced people aren’t always easygoing in their communication, but they are good to consult, keeping all in a proper perspective.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You might wonder how things would have developed had you gotten everything you wanted. But whatever did or did not happen in the past, what’s happening now is what matters. You’ll leverage it in a beautiful way.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). It feels as though you can’t help a situation, but you can, just by showing up. You won’t have to do much else. Small assurances won’t make up for the vast enormity of unanswerable questions, but they matter more than you’d think!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’re in a generous mood, but think twice before you volunteer. Give yourself time before responding. Do calculations on the matter. There’s a lot that would be possible, or even fun to do, but will it serve your bottom line?

AQUARIUS

in the plan were met with positive feedback by the council, such as a possible self-guided audio tour or art installations placed in empty storefronts, other details in the draft were seen as rough edges that required attention. The art plan includes recognition of noose imagery as a “prominent feature on historic Main Street and much of its retail marketing,” a detail that left council members and public commenters worried about potential blowback from the public.

“We went through a lot on the noose and, yeah, I’ve never had a problem with Hangtown, but the noose, I think it should go,” said Vice Mayor John Clerici, who also questioned if the plan was too focused on Main Street. “Like a lot of things in this town, it feels like it’s Main Street and then when you go past Main Street it’s like there’s dragons and serpents outside and the rest of town doesn’t really exist.”

Funding sources were also a point of consideration for the council members, who were cautious about pursuing avenues suggested in the plan such as increasing the city’s Transient Occupancy Tax from 10% to 12%.

After a discussion between council members and questions regarding the plan answered by ACED Executive Director Terry LeMoncheck, the draft was sent over to the city’s Recreation and Parks Commission for discussion and adjustment.

In order for ACED to receive grant reimbursement for the funds used to develop the plan, the public art plan needs to be adopted by May 30, according to Morris. Because of this deadline, a final-final draft is expected to come before the council during its May 14 meeting, though it may be delayed until the following meeting on May 28 if more time to complete the revision is required.

Continued from A3 designation in Northern California, spoke at the demonstration.

“Today’s demonstration is about sharing knowledge and it’s an opportunity to see what wildfire resilience looks like. May today be the start of a resiliency journey for more Californians at risk to wildfire to avoid the trap of thinking it won’t happen to me,” shared Ledbetter.

“The system of mitigations shown today gives us an opportunity to be

Speedway Continued from A5

division is always a fun part of the night and displays true grass roots racing.

Grandstand seating is general admission this Saturday except for the reserved seats marked for season ticket holders. Purchase tickets online at eventsprout.com/event/psr-051124 or at the gate on race day. Pit passes can be purchased at the pit gate or via the Pit Pay App to take advantage of the expanded seating area on the hill. The pit gate will open at noon, with the front gate opening at 3 p.m. Happy Hour is offered when the gates open until 6 p.m. in the grandstands featuring live music along with discounted beer. The pit meeting will be held at 4:45 p.m. with cars on track at 5:15. Hot laps, ADCO Driveline qualifying and racing will follow. For those who can’t make it to the track, CaliDirt.TV will provide

Curry Continued from A5

Steve Young, Aaron Rodgers, John Elway, Ray Allen, DeMarcus Ware, Baker Mayfield, Kyle Lowry, Brian Urlacher, Charles Woodson, Canelo, and Larry Fitzgerald. Entertainers feature Colin Jost, Miles Teller, Nate Bargatze, Ray Romano, Don Cheadle, Carson Daly, Jake Owen, Larry the Cable Guy, Rob Riggle, and Brian Baumgartner. Previous tournament winners include 3-time champions Romo and former MLB pitcher Mark Mulder, two-time winner Jack Wagner, along with Mardy Fish, and Vinny Del Negro, plus top competitors Annika Sorenstam, John Smoltz and NHL star Joe Pavelski. americancenturychampionship.com.

The three-day, 54-hole tournament awards a $750,000 purse, with $150,000 to the winner, plus a charity component for local and national non-profits. The 2024 American Century Championship will utilize the Modified Stableford format whereby points are awarded by score per hole. Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, a George Fazio design, has been ranked among America’s top 100 courses by numerous golf publications through the years.

empowered, proactive and to pursue resiliency in a way science shows is most effective.”

For more information on the importance of home hardening and defensible space, as well as the measures you can take to prepare your family and property for wildfires, visit readyforwildfire.org.

To learn more about Wildfire Prepared Home visit wildfireprepared.org.

live flag-to-flag coverage of every Placerville Speedway point race this season. The live streaming service also includes each event with the Sprint Car Challenge Tour.

NEXT

The tournament’s format and setting perfectly complement the informal Tahoe vibe, with players and gallery enjoying beachfront and mountain views between the action. Boats line the stretch of the course along the par 3, 17th hole, uniquely enhancing the party atmosphere. Spectators positioned along the hole enjoy good-natured bantering with the players as they slam dunk and shoot threes at the basketball hoop adjacent to the tee box and toss footballs and souvenirs to fans.

American Century Investments, the title sponsor of the championship since 1999, continues its role in partnership with NBC Sports, theLake Tahoe Visitors Authority, Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course and the South Tahoe community. Since its inception in 1990, the American Century Championship has donated nearly $8 million to local and national non-profits.

For the latest details, photos, celebrity tweets use #ACCgolf and follow @ACChampionship on Twitter and Instagram, and Facebook. For tournament information and updates: AmericanCenturyChampionship.

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

The county will also increase its allocation in its General Assistance program to $735,511 and to the non-grant-funded Community Hub project by $1,167,329. The county is using the General Fund to fund Community Hub activities.

ARPA rules also allow the use of funds to cover costs related to natural disasters after Dec. 29, 2022. In this respect, the county is allocating $52,000 to the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office to help cover costs related to its response to the 2022-23 winter storm emergencies.

Additionally, the county found the cost to improve Government Center’s Building C ventilation system to increase airflow — a $248,810 expense — is eligible for reimbursement.

Lastly, $2.8 million will be designated to cover costs of

General Fund government services, which were originally designated as “audit reserves.”

Decreases include lowering allocations to $150,000 to the Behavioral Health Crisis Residential Treatment Facility, which originally was slated to receive $1 million in ARPA funding.

ARPA was signed into law in March 2021 and designated nearly $2 trillion in federal funding to provide financial relief nationwide during the height of the COVID19 pandemic and its related shutdowns.

In November 2021 supervisors approved the county’s initial ARPA spending plan. After that, the U.S. Treasury released more rules related to ARPA spending which allowed a $10 million allowance to cover revenue

loss. Owens told the board the county had not updated its ARPA spending plan to incorporate the $10-million rule.

“In the original plan you had to prove how the revenue loss came to be and anything you claimed as a revenue loss to use that ARPA funding but now, with this updated rule, we can have up to $10 million in loss revenue claimed and this is the easiest category in ARPA to report because we just have to show that it was used for government services,” Owens explained.

The board unanimously approved the recommended reallocations to meet the obligation deadlines for all funds in the proposed spending plan. Staff will return to the board with the official budget transfers for further approval at a later time.

Rezone

Continued from A4

analyzed in the EIR during the 30-day public comment period for the NOP.

El Dorado County will hold a public scoping meeting to receive verbal comments regarding the scope and content of the proposed environmental document and answer general questions regarding the project and the environmental review process. The meeting is scheduled 2-3 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, at the El Dorado County Planning Commission Hearing Room, 2850 Fairlane Court in Placerville. Zoom link: us06web.zoom.us/j/89742692287. The scoping meeting format will include a presentation about the project and CEQA process; the county will then take written/verbal comments in person and/or via Zoom.

Send written comments to: Tom Purciel, senior planner

El Dorado County Department of Planning and Building, Long Range Planning 2850 Fairlane Court, Building C Placerville, CA 95667

Email: texashillrezones@edcgov.us

Fair Tickets

Pre-Sale Now Available

THURSDAY

Senior Day and Kid's Day

60 & over and 12 & Under - FREE until 6:30 pm

FRIDAY

Teen Day

13-19 years old get in FREE until 4 pm

SATURDAY

Gates Open 10 am – Midnight

SUNDAY — HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Don't miss the Father's Day Special!

Gates Open Noon – 10 pm

prices!

Pre-Sale Now Available

Courtney Jackson, top photo, a representative for the El Dorado and Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation Districts, explains the importance of the watershed to students from the California Montessori Project Shingle Springs, who were eager to answer Jackson’s impromptu quiz about the water cycle as they learned how snow in the mountains was a “bank” of water for the area. Alan Ahnfeldt, bottom photo, supervises a group of Buckeye Elementary School kids as they take turns using a hand drill to make ventilation holes in a box that will soon house a batch of compost-munching worms.

and learn about their roles in everyday life. More than 300 volunteers, including local farmers, resource managers, food preservers and loggers, set up a bevy of booths where they presented on a wide range of topics to enthusiastic kids. From soil quality and healthy forests to livestock and irrigation, the class groups discovered the importance of nature and how ever-present agriculture is in their community.

“El Dorado County’s landscape is made up of a patchwork of farms, orchards, vineyards, forests and watersheds — a canvas of specialty crops which contribute to our county’s economy, environment and culture,” said Avis Jolly, former executive director of El Dorado County Ag in the Classroom. “Farm Day allows the children, the future of El Dorado County, an educational hands-on exposure to learn more about the local food, fiber and shelter producing systems that exist in their own backyard.”

The learning stations dotted across the fairgrounds provided ample opportunity for the kids to get hands-on with what they were

learning — sometimes literally. Lambs presented by the Ponderosa High School FFA received a colorful makeover provided by children leaving paint-laden handprints. One popular presentation put on by the El Dorado High School Natural Resources Program illustrated the importance of managed forests by putting together matchstick forests in tubs and setting them alight to show how a wildfire can easily spread in a tree-packed forest.

Inquisitive kids were in no short supply, with raised hands a common sight at every booth. The event’s core focus on agriculture and natural resources fits into state standards for third grade students, serving as an end-of-year complement to county teachers’ curriculums.

Farm Day is made possible by the efforts of Ag in the Classroom, volunteer presenters and sponsorships from community businesses and organizations. This year presenters included vineyards, conservancy groups, farms, ranches, high school students and more.

For more information about Ag in the Classroom and its other events and programs visit agintheclass-edc.org.

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

PROSPECTING

Section B ■ mtdemocrat.com

IN THE KNOW

May 10

The Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m. at Valenz Tacos, 3275 Coach Lane, Suite B, Cameron Park.

The Sierra Renaissance Society presents El Dorado County Planning Manager Report by Bret Sampson

1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. For more information visit srsedc.org.

Marina Village Middle School in El Dorado Hills hosts a STEM Fair, 5-7 p.m. The public is invited to explore the projects of local middle and high school students.

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

Placerville Ducks Unlimited celebrates 40 years of fundraising with a special banquet at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Tickets for the event are available at ducks. org/events#events or call Amy at (530) 391-9944.

Coyote Hill Band will perform at 8 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

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

Jacam Manricks presents Kind of Blue at The So a in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

The Sacramento Theatre Company presents Disney’s “Camp Rock: The Musical,” May 10-19. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-6722 or visit sactheatre. org.

Black Point Theatre presents “The Height of the Storm,” May 10-26 in West Sacramento. For tickets and more information visit blackpointtheatre.org.

May 11

Save the Graves hosts the Women of Placerville Union Cemetery Walking Tour at 10 a.m. at 650 Bee St. in Placerville. Sign up in advance by emailing info@ savethegraveseldorado.org.

Paul Godwin and Miguel Noya invite guests to explore eld recording and nature journaling, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wakamatsu Farm, 941 Cold Springs Road in Placerville. Register for free at myrtletreearts.com/ upcoming-events.

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce hosts Heart of the Hills Blues Blast 1-6 p.m. at the beautiful outdoor grounds at Overland District, just above Regal Cinemas at El Dorado Hills Town Center. Gates open at noon. Tickets are on sale at heartofthehillsmusicfest.org.

Kyle Rowland Blues will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.

Red Dirt Ruckus and Old Mule will perform at 7 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Creatives pursue their Passions and share with Gold Country Artists Gallery visitors

D.

Lee Reyes Gold Country Artists Gallery

Gold Country Artists Gallery, an awardwinning gallery in Placerville, presents artwork by its newest artists — Kirk Daugherty, David Danz and JT Whittaker.

Letting loose

Danz grew up in the Gold Country town of Sonora, located in the foothills of Northern California, and attended Delta Junior College in Stockton where he studied drawing, printmaking and calligraphy. He became interested in linocut and woodcut, types of block printing in which a design is carved into a block, inked and pressed onto paper to make a print. It was this unusual medium that brought added attention to his portfolio when he was accepted at the prestigious Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, where he earned his bachelor’s of fine arts in illustration. He later discovered that scratchboard, a form of engraving with sharp tools to remove ink layered onto clay board to create designs, was much easier to work with than linocut and he worked exclusively in that medium for many years.

Pursuing his dream, Danz

moved his family to Marin County, across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, where he settled into a 35 year-long career as full-time graphic designer and freelance illustrator. His high-profile client portfolio included Miller Coors, Apple Computer, Chevron, NY Stock Exchange, General Mills, Hunt-Wesson

Inc., Bank of America, Wells Fargo Bank, William Sonoma and many more. Putting his skill with the artwork style of linocut to work, he conceptualized and illustrated the main focal points of the various flavors of Blue Moon Beer prior to their redesign in 2015.

In 1992 Danz returned with his family to the Placerville area to further pursue his dream of creating fine art. He describes a personal battle to “loosen up” his technique, and found that watercolor is the ideal medium for this pursuit.

“I let the paint do what it wants to do, and not control it so much,” he said. “The looseness of the medium allows the painting to take on a character of its own, to hint at essential things without being so literal.”

His paintings titled “Bell Tower Placerville” and “Catsup Mustard Buildings” depict the iconic exteriors that line Placerville’s Main Street. In his image “Hooverville Orchards” Danz presents the store surrounded by fruits of the season. His artistic skill with perspective, light and texture is clear in these images, while still acknowledging the “looseness” he seeks.

Danz’ love and appreciation for the intriguing and diverse environs of the El Dorado where he makes his home is honored in his delightfully picturesque paintings.

Stealth photographer

Born and raised in Northern California, Daugherty is as passionate about the natural world as he is about photographing it. Exploring the mountains, deserts and coasts inspired him to become an amateur photographer. While his subject matter is diverse, his greatest influence comes from nature, particularly that of the western United States and Canada, where he developed a talent for capturing special moments with precision and detail and a reputation for producing exceptionally high-quality original images.

As an avid backpacking hiker, Daugherty expresses his deep reverence for the natural environments he traverses, respecting and honoring them by keeping his “footprint” to a minimum. And as a photographer, he is diligent about disturbing the flora and fauna as little as possible. He compares his pursuit of a subject to that of a hunter, but the “shooting” he does is with his camera lens. The goal is, he explained, “They will never know I am there.”

In his youth, his first photographic experience took place on top of Yosemite’s Half Dome, using the small camera his grandpa loaned him. He snapped a picture of a bat just as the sun was

“Hooverville Orchards” by David Danz

“Catsup Mustard Buildings” by David Danz

“Stone Formation Grand Canyon” by Kirk Daugherty

PAA prizes Otter Creek School’s artful gusto

Sylvia Coleman Placerville Arts Association

It was a magical day at Otter Creek School nestled in the forest of Volcanoville about 7 miles northeast of Georgetown.

Students were out for recess participating in various activities across a roomy playground, including “basketball-court hockey,” while Patty Miller, the teacher’s aide, watched. A few hundred yards away on the other side of the school’s fence, stood the carcasses of trees destroyed by the 2022 Mosquito Fire.

After taking pictures from many different vantage points, a member of the Placerville Arts Association came face to face with five students lined up, posing and smiling. Hint recognized, she snapped the shot, noting these students have become stronger through the “fires” that ravaged their surroundings.

Placerville Arts Association Vice President and Chair of the PAA Outreach Grant Committee Cathy Keil and PAA Publicity Chair Sylvia Coleman recently headed out to Otter Creek School to present school leaders and students with a 2024 Outreach Grant check for $700.

PAA, one of the oldest nonprofit groups in El Dorado County, has been actively reaching out to the youth of the greater Placerville area to inspire, promote and be a resource by providing Outreach Grants to schools and other youth-centered community organizations. It has been one of PAA’s missions for more than 50 years to help nurture art appreciation in youth and to develop skills to create their own art and become tomorrow’s artists.

This year, PAA members noted it was pleasure to n See

The Georgetown Divide is in for a rare treat May 19 at the IOOF Hall in Georgetown, when Music on the Divide brings singer and songwriter Nick Palance back to the stage.

Hailed by critics as the new “American Bocelli,” Palance is truly an extraordinary artist. Born in Los Angeles to a musical family, Palance taught himself to play the organ at age 6 and the guitar at age 9. By the age of 14 he was writing songs and performing in Los Angeles clubs with rock bands. At 17 he entered the Southern California Conservatory of Music, winning a four-year scholarship to major in voice and minor in classical guitar. Shortly after graduating Palance began formal training with world-renowned baritone Dr. Hernan Pelayo, who is known for his 10 years as lead baritone at La Scalla in Italy. After a tenure with the Canadian Tenors and starring in the lead role of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” Palance has spent the last few years traveling full time sharing his remarkable voice with captivated audiences from coast to coast.

As a singer and songwriter, Palance’s unique repertoire spans five languages and encompasses nearly every musical genre from opera, “popera” and show tunes to rock, pop, oldies and even a little country, as well as his own original compositions. His current project is called “Saving Grace,” a collaboration with Oscar and Grammy awardwinning producer, arranger and composer Jorge Calandrelli and talented producer, programmer, sound designer and engineer Greg Bartheld.

The concert will be 3-5 p.m. May 19, with doors opening to members and online ticket holders at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale at eventbrite.com and will be available at the door at 2:30 p.m. on concert day for $20, as space allows. Students may attend for $5 and children 5 and younger are free with parent. Attendees are asked to be prepared to pay with cash or check only. As always, home baked treats and refreshments will be available at intermission.

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American singer/songwriter Nick Palance headlines concert halls throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Lynn Schardt Music on the Divide

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Placerville Arts Association members and Otter Creek School students and staff put on their silly faces for a photo during PAA’s visit during which the organization gave the school a $700 check to replace art supplies lost in the Mosquito Fire.

Young artists celebrated

Arts and Culture El Dorado News release

Four outstanding high school seniors received the 2024 Young Artist Awards at a reception at Arts and Culture El Dorado’s Switchboard Gallery at 525 Main St. in Placerville.

The event, held April 25, also honored the memory of four bright lights in the El Dorado County community who greatly supported the arts. Their lives represent the talent, thoughtfulness, generosity and commitment to the community that makes El Dorado County a special place to live. The Young Artist Awards were presented in four categories: the Richard H. Bush Award for Music; the Joey Cattone Award for Visual Art; the Lanny Langston Award for Theater; and the Jane Van Camp Award for Nature-Inspired Art. Awardees received a $500 honorarium.

“This awards program is only in its third year, but its impact is already deeply felt,” said program coordinator Jordan Hyatt-Miller. “This year, we received more nominations — from more teachers at more schools — than ever, which speaks not just to the growth of this program, but to the immense talent and creativity of young people in El Dorado County. We’re grateful to have this opportunity to celebrate and support the young artists in our community.”

Oak Ridge senior Adrianna Vasquez, selected by Paul, Maggie and Leslie Bush, received the 2024 Richard H. Bush Award for Music. Adrianna, nominated by Nathan Tilley, is a key piece of the percussion ensemble at Oak Ridge, setting rehearsal and performance standards for the entire section as the center marimba. Adrianna will pursue a degree in music education at Arizona State University. “Adrianna is an incredibly talented musician,” noted Tilley.

Dan Cattone presented the 2024 Joey Cattone Award for Visual Art to Luci Padilla, a senior at Ponderosa High School. Luci, nominated by teacher Jennifer Schrock, is a standout artist whose “original ideas and ability to take creative risks” set her apart. In addition to being a talented artist, n See ARTIST AWARDS, page B10

remarkable event is not only a fantastic way to honor our mothers, but also an opportunity to support a worthy cause. Admission to this concert is completely free and all are welcome to attend. Donations are encouraged at the event to benefit the Women’s Fund El Dorado. Contributions will directly support the invaluable work of this organization, funding programs in El Dorado County for basic human needs, poverty, women, children and more.

Get ready to be swept away by Metcalf’s incredible portrayal of Elton John, performing his timeless classics. It’s sure to be an evening filled with joy, music and heartfelt celebration.

Oak Ridge senior Adrianna Vasquez accepts the 2024 Richard H. Bush Award for Music presented by Paul Bush at Madroña Vineyards in Camino.

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Dan Cattone, above left, presented the 2024 Joey Cattone Award for Visual Art to Luci Padilla, center. The Ponderosa High School senior was nominated by teacher Jennifer Schrock, right.

Make a Mother’s Day Coupon Book for Gifts of Time from you!

You don’t have to spend money to tell mom how much you love her on Mother’s Day. The most precious gift for her is your time.

Create a a special Mother’s Day gift for your mom, aunt, stepmother, grandmother or other special woman you know. Follow the easy instructions below and then work on the activities together.

Cut out each coupon.

Paste the coupons on a large piece of construction paper.

Add photographs and/or draw a picture of you and your mom doing something together. Or, write a paragraph about a special memory the two of you share.

Present your gift and watch your mom smile!

Luis wants to buy his mother some flowers. He has $1.00. Use the puzzle to figure out what each of the flowers costs. Then select some flowers that Luis can buy to make his mother a bouquet.

Look through the newspaper for five or more adjectives that describe your mom (or a special lady in your life). Use these to write a poem or paragraph about her.

in bed prepared by me. (I’ll clean up the mess in the kitchen, too!)

Vicki got a new sweater for Mother’s day. Her son Max chipped in $17.50.

© 2014 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 30, No. 21

BUTTERED AND SALTY

I’m not convinced apes wouldn’t run a better society than us.

I had this thought while watching the fourth (and 10th overall) film in the modern-day “Planet of the Apes” saga. The “Apes” series — which is the longest-running science-fiction film series in history — has always swung for the fences in terms of highbrow ideas about race, society and politics. “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” is no different, though you can add religion into the mix. Director Wes Ball ( “Maze Runner” films) and writers Josh Friedman, Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver continue their winning streak with the new chapters of the saga by delivering a dense, intriguing and visually stunning film.

Even in the two-and-a-half decades since CGI assets and characters started becoming the norm (has it really been 25 years since “Star Wars: Episode One – The Phantom Menace” was released?) I still feel like I’m watching FX get vomited on screen in most large-scale blockbusters. The geography of the chaotic action set pieces is usually not very clear.

In the newer “Apes” film the animation has to be focused and effective or else we don’t believe the story. The apes are the main characters, after all, and we have to be invested in every word they say. While the previous three films from 2011, 2014 and 2017, respectively, did marvelous things

with motion capture technology — thanks to the brilliant performance and movements of Andy Serkis as hero ape Caesar — I never for a minute thought about the special effects because I was 100% convinced I was watching talking apes. It’s truly astounding what this franchise has done for motion capture technology these last 13 years.

As previously stated, Serkis’ performance and character in the previous three films casts a long shadow but the filmmakers made the intuitively smart move to place this film 300 years after the last movie (“War for the Planet of the Apes”). This allows the plot to not be anchored down as a postscript to the previous entry. Instead, the long deceased Caesar has become a mythic, almost religious-type figure over several generations and his words are sometimes revered and sometimes bastardized, depending on the clan or tribe we are watching on screen. Sound familiar?

Like Serkis’ performance the film doesn’t work without a strong and empathetic lead, regardless of how much GCI animation is on top of the human motion capture performance. To this end Owen Teague’s Noa accomplished this role well. The entire cast is strong, actually, with the highest marks going to Peter Macon (“The Orville”) as Raka, a wise orangutan who befriends Noa and steals the movie in the limited screen time he has.

If I have any issues with the film it’s two-fold: Freya Allan (“The Witcher”) plays Mae, a human character who Noa and Raka attempt to build a friendship with. Allan is a very capable actress and does fine work here, but we relate to the apes just as well as we would any human character in the

film. This is Noa’s movie and the filmmakers should finally be comfortable not needing a human sidekick tagging along. Until the very end of the film it feels like Mae is shoehorned in because the studio felt there just has to be a “relatable” human element to these films. Honestly, Noa and his family and friends (some of whom could have actually used more screen time) are intriguing enough. The fact that Mae isn’t given much to do in the story until some pivotal plot points at the end of the picture pretty much says it all. As far as the ending: of course we will keep this review spoiler free, but I will say I am intrigued at where this franchise is headed. Based on the previous trilogy it will probably take three to four years for the next installment to be released. Quality and films of this size and ambition take time (or at least they should). By then we will be up against the 60th anniversary of the original film. If there is a more successful franchise that doesn’t get talked about as much as some of the other big Hollywood sci-fi franchises I can’t think of one. If there is a way for four straight films to be successful at the box office and with fans and critics alike these damned dirty apes films have cracked the code. While shaving a bit off the running time and re-thinking the human lead would have probably given the film a slightly higher rating, this slow-burn sci-fi epic still manages to have a pretty exciting climax that will leave you entertained and fascinated. Joshua B. Porter is a writer/director/producer. He can be reached at @joshuabporter or joshuabporter@mtdemocrat.net.

Teen dancing her way to prestigious school in the Big Apple

News release

El Dorado County dancer Ameliah Wanta has been accepted at top-ranking ballet schools in New York City. Ameliah (Milly), 13, has been a student of Gina Illingworth, director of the Camino Classical Ballet, since she was 8 years old. She currently attends Camerado Springs Middle School.

“Milly has always been a focused and dedicated student. Much is also to be said about her supportive and nurturing family,” Illingworth said.

Two years ago, Milly received a scholarship to the San Francisco Ballet School’s summer dance program. Last year she danced at the American Ballet Theater School in Los Angeles. Acceptance into these prestigious programs is difficult and auditions take place all over the country and often internationally.

Milly auditioned for the School of

setting. The clicking of his camera shutter has not ceased since and he has gone on to develop a “philosophy of photography” that includes a deep understanding how organisms interact in their natural environment, mastery over the tools of his art and the infinite patience it takes to wait and be ready for that special moment when it happens.

American Ballet, the feeder school for the esteemed New York City Ballet founded by George Balanchine. She received her acceptance letter a week later inviting her to study in New York for four weeks in July.

Milly also auditioned for the Ellison Ballet School in New York. The Ellison school is a small specialized professional training program that and only accepts a handful of serious students.

Her mom and younger brother plan on accompanying her. Camino Classical Ballet is planning to donate proceeds from its spring show to help defray costs for Milly’s family.

The Everything Tchaikovsky show, dances from favorite Tchaikovsky ballets and more, takes place at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 18, at the El Dorado High School Carl Borelli Amphitheater 561 Canal St. in Placerville. Purchase tickets at the door.

photographs is what drives him. “That’s what makes photography tick for me and all of my pictures tell a story,” Daugherty said.

“Knowing they usually spot you first, I got my lens into position before it could fly off,” he shared, explaining the moment the owl ducked its head a bit and cleared its face of the surrounding foliage, Daugherty snapped the shot.

Now an accomplished, professional photographer, the desire to follow his own path in pursuing his

More recently, he was visiting Grizzly Island Wildlife Area near San Francisco. Very early in the day, he observed a barn owl that had apparently just returned from the hunt. He quietly positioned himself as he focused on his subject, creating “Barn Owl in Eucalyptus Grove.”

For example, his photo of a natural rock “sculpture” titled “Stone Formation Grand Canyon” resembles a seated man wearing a hat and holding flowers. A storm at close range hints at prismed mists, providing a dramatic backdrop for the figure.

Daugherty’s enthusiasm for photography is evident in his work, consistently delivering stunning visuals to “capture

the image I see as my impression of nature, the way I feel and that nature is what satisfies my view of art in the world.” It is his hope that his photographic images will inspire the viewer to think more deeply about the environment, the precious life it cradles, and the need to protect it.

An eye for photography

As a young man, Whittaker discovered a love for photography. Seeing what artists like Imogen Cunningham, Edward Weston, Brett Weston and Alfred Stieglitz created with their images he decided to take courses in photography, particularly with black and white film.

While meeting his favorite photographer, his path was set. “I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Ansel Adams at a lecture many years ago and as a result I was hooked.” He wanted to pursue a career in photography, but as with so many heart-felt aspirations, life and reality interfered with that dream.

“However,” Whittaker quipped, “I did become a terrific (and quite prolific) snapshot artist at various events for family and friends — much to the chagrin of my daughters.”

When digital photography came onto the scene, he stayed away from it due to what he perceived as a quality-of-image issue. “The images were pasty-looking, blurry.” It seems rather ironic that his occupational career led him to work for a company that made LCD professional products for Sharp. Generally, liquid crystal display is the tech used to create the screens embedded into the back of digital cameras. By the late 2000s digital photography had advanced.

“Digital photography has actually surpassed film and the fact that you no longer need to process your images in a darkroom served as a call to me to try once again to follow my dream,” Whittaker shared. In 2009 he did just that and started his own business called “jt Photo Images.”

His first digital image was the mysterious view “Under Capitola Pier,” where subtle hues infuse the fogsoftened scene of crooked piles set within the gray seawater. This photograph “got me going again,” he said enthusiastically. “As you will see in my work, I find the most interesting facet of photography is capturing the colors and moods of nature.”

Travels to Europe, Ireland, New Zealand and National Parks like Grand Tetons and Joshua Tree, as well as other captivating locations, provided opportunities for him to expand his portfolio and “photographic eye.”

Terry Whittaker hopes the viewer will enjoy the very moody but rich colors of the “Abandoned Cottage, Islay Scotland,” the strange and wonderful “Foggy Beauty” of

San Francisco Bay, the vibrant boats of “Capitola Colors” and the energetic movements of his “Onaqui Wild Mustang” photos — incredible things and places that one might not ever have the chance to experience in real life but are able to enjoy with his photographs.

Gold Country Artists Gallery, 379 Main St. in Placerville, features the work of many awardwinning regional artists working in fields as diverse as fine jewelry, photography, fused glass, wood turning, pastels, colored pencil, scratch board, and watercolor, acrylic and oil painting. The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and

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“Under Capitola Pier” by JT Whittaker

“Eamon’s Door” by JT Whittaker

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Ameliah Wanta takes her talents to New York’s School of American Ballet this summer. A dance performance to help fund her trip is scheduled on May 18.

Popular ’70s band Pablo Cruise is back and better than ever

Leila Srouji The Center for the Arts

GRASS VALLEY — The Center for the Arts presents Pablo Cruise in the Marisa Funk Theater on May 11.

In 1975 Pablo Cruise released its first A&M album simply titled “Pablo Cruise.” The album cover was shot in the tropical gardens of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park and it featured a huge gorilla standing front and center. The band — David Jenkins (guitars, vocals), Cory Lerios (keyboards, vocals), Bud Cockerel (bass, vocals) and Steve Price (drums, percussion) — were nowhere in sight.

At that point, there was a bit of a mystique surrounding Pablo Cruise and when asked what Pablo Cruise meant, the well-rehearsed answer went something like this: “Pablo” represents an honest, real, down-toearth individual and “Cruise” depicts his fun-loving, easy-going attitude toward life. In essence, that’s what Pablo Cruise’s music is all about. Honest, real, down to earth vocals accompanied by fun yet elegant, infectious grooves. To hear Pablo Cruise on record is one thing, but to experience the band live is an exhilarating event.

From 1975 to 1985 the band toured the United States, Canada and Japan extensively, welcoming fans to “climb aboard the good ship Pablo Cruise.”

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Reaching the top 10 with mega hits like “Whatcha Gonna Do When She Says Goodbye?” and “Love Will Find

A Way,” and several other top 20s, the band went on to sell several million albums and singles collectively and the musicians established themselves as well respected writers and performers within the industry. They appeared on numerous

award Otter Creek School with the grant. The arts have always been an important tool in the education students receive at this very unique “way out in the forest” school with 17 students, kindergarten through fifth grades. Not only is their overall state testing rank in the top 30% (NCES/CA-DOE), but the teacher, teacher’s aide and students create and perform an end-of-the-year musical production built around an educational theme.

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Ed Wilson will perform at Back Bistro in Folsom, 6-9 p.m.

Maxx Cabello Jr. will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.

com.

Dirty Cello will perform at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.

org.

The Murer House Foundation is celebrating its 11th annual Italy on Wheels festival, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 1125 Joe Murer Court in Historic Folsom. A variety of new as well as classic and vintage Italian cars, motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles will be on exhibit.

Edge of Spring – Fantasy Fair a spectacular fusion of fantasy fair and concert extravaganza, comes to the Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn May 11 & 12. For more information visit edgeofspring.net.

May 12

El Dorado Western Railroad offers excursion rides with trains running on the hour, 10 a.m. through 1 p.m., weather permitting, at the Shingle Springs Station. For more information visit facebook.com/ ElDoradoWesternRailroad.

Meet Bitsy Kemper, author of “Mommy & Me Micro-Moments,” noon to 3 p.m. at Face in a Book in EDH Town Center.

MixUP will perform at 1 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

May 14

Vitalant will hold a Georgetown community blood drive, 1:305:15 p.m. at the Oddfellows Hall, 6240 Main St. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant. org and enter blood drive code SMFM028 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

Smith Flat House in Placerville hosts live music in the courtyard with Hickory Wind. For more information call (530) 621-1003.

Chilly Billy Dilly & Cool Friends will perform at 7 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

TV shows, including Dick Clark’s American Bandstand, The Merv Griffin Show, The Dinah Shore Hour and in 1979 they broke Elvis Presley’s attendance record at the Sahara Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe, becoming the first rock band to play a casino showroom. They also became the first rock band to grace the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. By 1985, after completing several

Otter Creek School was built in 1992 and had just one teacher who, with parents and volunteers, built an outdoor stage. Each May since, families have come to see live performances. The stage and storage shed were lost in the fire and though those have been rebuilt, the school still needs art supplies and other items for musical productions.

“It is crucial for children to have the opportunity to use all of their senses to explore their world and

May 15

Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts Preparing for Wildfire: Hardening Your Home & Creating Defensible Space, 9 a.m. to noon at the Cameron Park Community Center. Learn how to make your home more fire-resilient to wildfire and meet state and county laws and regulations.

The Snowline Living Well with Dementia Caregiver Support Group meets the third Wednesday of every month at Snowline’s administrative offices or other community locations. This group supports caregivers and family members who are caring for or have a loved one with dementia. Alongside the support group, an Activity

Enrichment Group for persons with dementia is offered at the same time and location. For more information call (530) 621-7820.

Now Imagination Theater presents “Winnie the Pooh” through

national tours and releasing seven studio albums in all, the band decided to take a hiatus — one that lasted nearly 20 years.

Fast forward: In 2005 a reunited Pablo Cruise picked up where it left off and today the band performs all over the U.S. and Canada, enjoying it more now than ever. Since getting back together, the musicians have released two live CDs and a DVD all through Sony Music documenting their exceptional live shows.

“One of the great things about playing shows after all these years is that the core band, David, Steve and myself are still here and lovin’ it,” Lerios said. “Going out and playing shows these days allows us to not only pay tribute to our timeless repertoire, but it also gives us a chance to see old friends and fans from back in the day as well as gaining a whole new audience.”

Today Pablo Cruise is bringing more energy and excitement to the stage than ever before. With the addition of Larry Antonino and Robbie Wyckoff, the band has never sounded better.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 11, at The Center for the Arts, 314 West Main St. in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org or call (530) 274-8384.

to express their creativity. At Otter Creek, students use art for every subject; even the academics,” explained teacher Eleanor Liddicoat. “It is amazing how something as simple as using paint and clay for lettering will produce high marks on spelling tests or remembering their states on a map.”

To learn more about the Placerville Arts Association, its mission, meetings, events and how to become a member visit placervillearts.com.

May 12 at the theater on the El Dorado County in Placerville. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org/winnie-thepooh.

The third annual Shakespeare production under the stars at David Girard Vineyards takes place through May 12. This year’s show is “Much Ado About Nothing” presented by Folsom Lake College and Falcon’s Eye Theater. For tickets and more information visit falconseyetheatre.com/muchado.

E-mail your public notice to legals@mtdemocrat.net

include

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Reunited Pablo Cruise members, plus a couple new members, hit the stage in Grass Valley this Saturday.

she has displayed strong leadership and communication skills. “In the time I have spent with Luci, I have been impressed with her creativity, perseverance and technical abilities in art,” commented Schrock.

Tish Langston presented the 2024 Lanny Langston Award for Theater to Chloe Olney, a senior at Union Mine High School. Chloe, nominated by Heather Freer, is a “creative genius” who brings Theatre at the Mine productions to life as a stage manager, designing sets, coordinating lighting and tech, and problem-solving with actors and directors. “She is truly the heart of the theater,” said Freer.

Tiffany Van Camp presented the 2024 Jane Van Camp Award for Nature-Inspired Art to Nia Henderson, a senior at El Dorado

High School. Nia, nominated by Krista Potter, excels in many areas: artistically and academically, but also as a leader and a community volunteer. She has, for instance, created multiple pieces of naturethemed public art and established a learning station for younger students to explore the world of fungi. “Our campus and community are more beautiful because of her dedication and creativity,” explained Potter.

An annual program, the Young Artist Awards will continue to celebrate the great promise of younger generations and honor the lives and legacies of those bright lights who came before them.

For more information about Arts and Culture El Dorado visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.

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Tish Langston presents the 2024 Lanny Langston Award for Theater to Union Mine senior Chloe Olney, who was nominated by drama teacher Heather Freer, above left to right. Below, Tiffany Van Camp gives the 2024 Jane Van Camp Award for Nature-Inspired Art to El Dorado senior Nia Henderson, who was nominated by teacher Krista Potter, left to right.