Mountain Democrat, Monday, July 24, 2023

Cameron Park CSD cancels medic contract

Managing Editor

Cameron Park’s Medic 89 may be on the move. Continuing efforts to ensure the Cameron Park Community Services District stays financially solvent, the CPCSD Board of Directors Wednesday night approved a resolution canceling the Advanced Life Support Ambulance Agreement between the El Dorado County Emergency Services Authority and the district.

The decision will save the CSD approximately $180,000, according to a staff report.

Cal Fire, which contracts with the district to provide fire services, currently staffs the ambulance out of Station 89 on Country Club Drive. Due to staffing issues — the Cameron Park Fire Department is down five firefighters with another on their way out — Cameron Park Fire Chief Dustin Martin said he supports the decision, with a pledge to keep the ambulance running to the best of his ability until a new agency takes over.

“We are going to keep that ambulance staffed,” Martin told the board. “Our folks have lived with seven medic units in the system and they do not want to do that again.”

The El Dorado County Emergency Services Authority provides administrative, financial and operational assistance to member agencies for a coordinated, fully integrated fire-based pre-hospital emergency medical and dispatch services for the county’s Western Slope, managing eight ambulances with partner agencies.

• El Dorado Hills Fire Department, one ambulance

• Cameron Park Fire Department, one ambulance

n See MeDIC 89, page A6

Clarity, changing food web detailed in Lake Tahoe report

The Tahoe Environmental Research Center at the University of California, Davis, released its annual Tahoe: State of the Lake Report June 20, describing the past year as one of rapid biological change.

The 2023 report presents data collected during 2022 and puts it in context with historical records. It also serves as an important resource for restoration, management and monitoring

decisions.

UC Davis researchers have been monitoring the second deepest lake in the United States continuously since 1968, and the report provides an update for nonscientists on a variety of factors affecting the health of Lake Tahoe.

Rapid changes

The report details changes in lake clarity and the possible links to a sudden decline in the mysis

n See Lake tahoe, page A6

Rescue fire captain wraps up FEMA special training

critical insight concerning national response planning and incident management. This important two-year program comprises four unique courses requiring the participant to develop and complete a capstone project directly benefiting the fire officer’s department and community. This capstone project permits the student an opportunity to demonstrate application of course theory and concepts to real-life situations. The final project is then evaluated through

n See Capt. Jones page A3

UC Davis TERC photo by Alison Toy

Lake Tahoe experienced an extreme winter with a longer period of vertical mixing and Emerald Bay freezing over.

Emily C. Dooley UC Davis

Noel Stack

OBITUARIES

Michael Rakowicz

June 16, 1946 – June 21, 2023

Michael Rakowicz was born in Oakland, California on June 16, 1946. He died of an infection that developed into sepsis on June 21, 2023, five days after his 77th birthday, and he passed at home in Walkersville, Maryland. Mike was the son of Bernice (102 Years Young) and the Late Maurice Rakowicz, brother of the Late John Rakowicz and sister of Janet (Bob) Walker and wife of Lois Calzone. In addition, he was “step-dad” to Jeremiah Horn of San Jose, CA. He grew up in Hayward, CA and graduated from Sunset High. His cousins, the Bradford’s and the Boeger’s were his frequent companions. It was his grandfather Ernie who took young Mike on elk and deer hunting camping trips to Montana, creating a life-long interest in the sport. His pleasure in working on and collecting cars began early in his teen years. Having rolled his Camaro at high speed once was fortunately enough to make him a safe driver for the rest of his life. Immediately after graduation, Mike worked odd jobs. Entertainment was going with his brother and friends to the psychedelic Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco for live shows by 60s rock and roll legends. And yes, Mike always laughed as he repeated the quote, “If you remember the 60s, you weren’t there.” Mike acquired warehouse management skills working for his dad’s Kordon Corporation, marketing aquarium industry products including Tetramin fish food. In 1969, Mike traveled with his family on a month-long trip to Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Eventually he moved to Baltimore, Maryland, to manage the company’s East Coast warehouse. That is where he met Lois Calzone and his new life began. His ability to make friends and maintain quality friendships over his lifetime was remarkable and attested to his kind heart and generous, thoughtful approach to people. With his warm smile and gentle laugh, Mike loved all people and always made others feel special- a trait that made one want to be with him. He had ongoing friendships with schoolmates, beginning from preteen years, with former work colleagues and their families and with local farmers he helped by thinning the ranks of the “whistle pig” groundhog population on their farms. He especially loved his fellow gun enthusiasts, George Herold and family, and enjoyed Saturdays working at Herold’s Gun Shoppe. It sometimes seemed like he became genuine friends with everyone he met, including Lois’ ex-husband, Jerry! Mike was very funny, quick with clever puns and hilarious nicknames, especially for his much-loved pets. He renamed Lois “Rockmelon/ Rockymelon” which he used a ectionately. His devotion to his family was immense. He treasured his two nephews, Paul Ulbrich and Pete Ulbrich, who always referred to him as “Uncle Cool.” He was remarkably close to his cousins Bryan and Nicki Bradford, his friends Bob and Elaine White of Redding, CA, and Chris Miller of Woodbine, MD. Partners for more than forty years and married for one year, Lois brought to the relationship her three adult children, Kim Barton, Brian Barton, and Jude Taylor. Mike was there to welcome the births of each of his grandchildren, Sam Gay, Johnny Gay, Joey Gay and Maggie Fallon and became known as “Ol Grampy.” In addition, he was great-granddad to Lucas Gay, Thomas and Nathan Gay, and Sebastian Fallon. Mike’s Mom always said he was so amazingly lucky to have wonderful grandchildren without having to raise any kids. A memorial service is to be held in August, which was Mike’s “favorite” East Coast month. Mike was loved enormously and will be missed greatly. https://www.sepsis. org for information regarding sepsis. Expressions of sympathy may be o ered to the family at www. Stau erFuneralHome.com.

LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES

PLACERVILLE CITY COUNCIL City Hall 3101 Center St., Placerville (530) 642-5200

Mayor Michael Saragosa msaragosa@cityofplacerville. org

Vice Mayor Jackie Neau jneau@cityofplacerville.org John

David George Shelton

Oct. 19, 1947 – June 21, 2023

David George Shelton lost his fight with cancer after a fourteenyear battle on June 21, 2023.

A forty-four-year resident of Placerville, David was born in Waynesville, North Carolina to Alberta and Paul Shelton in October 1947.

He was drafted into The Vietnam War on his eighteenth birthday and valiantly served his country on the front-line as a combat infantryman. David was awarded two Purple Hearts. His military service in Vietnam was defining. David was a patriot and fought the e ects of Agent Orange as he fought any battle — with courage, dignity, and grit.

After Vietnam, David worked for himself as a heavy-duty diesel mechanic — and, man, could he work! He was a meticulous mechanic — always dedicated to doing things right the first time.

David is preceded in death by his father and mother and leaves behind countless friends and a broken-hearted family, including numerous nieces and nephews, two adoring sisters (Paula and Peggy), his car-collecting buddy and brother-in-law (Dale), his most cherished daughters, Jacqueline and Charlotte (Willie) and two grandchildren (Chenndra and Chase).

David was a man you could count on. He embodied the Infantryman’s Creed: “never yielding to weakness, to hunger, to cowardice, to fatigue, nor to superior odds.” For David was mentally tough, physically strong, and morally straight.

A Celebration of David’s Life and Military Service will be held at the VFW Post 6158 located at 8990 Kruitof Way in Fair Oaks, CA from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm on Saturday, July 29, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be given to K9s for Warriors in his name. https://k9sforwarriors.org.

Neil Thornton Phillis

May 20, 1937 - July 6, 2023

Neil Phillis passed away on July 6, 2023, age 86, at his home in Diamond Springs after a lengthy battle with prostate cancer.

Neil was born in Coal Run, Ohio to William and Helen Phillis. He was the fourth of five children. He served his country in the U.S. Marine Corp in the Korean War from 1954 to 1957. It was very rare that you would see Neil without his “U.S. Marine cap.”

After moving to the San Fernando Valley in Southern California, Neil met his future wife, Diann Renschler. After a short “courtship” they were married on July 18, 1964. They were blessed with a wonderful son, Craig.

Neil started an automotive repair business (Neil’s Automotive) in 1980 which is located in Diamond Springs. He retired from the business in 1994.

Neil was an avid fisherman. He and his wife bought a house on the Sacramento River in Tehama, California. He loved walking down to his dock and boat with his dog Austin (his fishing buddy) and heading down the river to fish and watch the bald eagles and other animals. After nineteen years in Tehama, they decided to move back to Placerville to be near family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Helen Phillis, sister Sara Lou Bishop, and brothers James and Blaine Phillis.

He is survived by his wife Diann, son Craig (Darlene), granddaughter Sarah Ruark (Ryan), grandson Bailey (fiance Kinsey Del Rio) sister Karen Dottl, sister-in-law Clarice Renschler and many nieces and nephews.

Per Neil’s wishes, there will be no services. There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Edward Ingram

Nov. 21, 1956 – July 16, 2023

Ed passed away unexpectedly on July 16, 2023. He is preceded in death by his father Robert (Buck) Ingram and his daughter Melissa Ingram. He is survived by his wife Tammy Danz/Ingram, Daughter Kara Vizcarra (Ingram), Sons

Derek Ingram and Austin Ingram, Step-Son Josh Danz, Stepdaughter Kori Sudduth, a GraGra to 7 Grandchildren, 2 Great grandkids and many more loved ones. He was born in Sacramento, Calif. and resided majority of his life in El Dorado County. He graduated in 1974 from El Dorado High School which during that time he worked at the Blue Bell Co ee Shop and Placerville Fruit Growers. He went on to working for the Garden Valley Fire Department, playing college football in Oregon, ranch hand in Macdoel Oregon, Cal Trans Supervisor for 35+ years from which he retired from, owned his own business E & T Tractor Service with his wife Tammy. After retiring from Cal Trans he worked for The Glassman and most recent was with C & H Motor Parts. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, camping, operating equipment, quading, gardening, spending time with friends and family who will greatly miss him. We love you! The family will hold a special Celebration of Life at Pine-O-Mine in Camino, Ca on August 6th 2023 from 11-1pm. In lieu of flowers, a donation in his memory can be made to the California Deer Association. Call Board Member Todd Stevens @ 916-524-5008 to donate.

Margrete Victoria Spencer (Hughes)

Feb. 14, 1948 – July 6, 2023

Margrete passed at home in Kelsey on her 54th anniversary after a lengthly illness. Margrete graduated from El Dorado High School as part of the notorious class of 1966. If you remember we were part of the funeral march through Placerville to the “old” El Dorado High, where we had a funeral and buried a brick with a sermon from the youth minister from the Episcopal Church. The class of 1966 was in bad graces by all our elders. That is just one of the reasons the class of 1966 will always be remembered. Next Margrete attended American River College in Placerville better known as UBR, University behind Raleys. Next Margrete attended Sacramento City College. Margrete was always a busy person all her married life. She was part of the start up group of the now closed First Christian Church of Placerville. The church was a small group that met on the fairgrounds in the Veterans Building. To get new members there was a PIE & CAKE feast after the sermon. The church grew quickly to the point that we could build the church on the hill over Cold Springs Road. After moving to John’s old family homestead in Kelsey, Margrete got into breeding old breed sheep. Next Margrete worked with the Black Sheep Association and got a certified Black Sheep Show started at the county fair. It was getting bigger each year until there was a change in the fair board and it was decided to remove their support. Margrete had a large rabbit barn built and started raising and selling meat rabbits for a few years.

We saw an ad that the probation department needed a foster home. After the ad kept being printed for weeks we checked it out and became foster parents for up to six kids at a time. In short we had well over 125 kid through our home. After giving up our license we adopted two of the kids after they aged out out of the probation system. Margrete was a yarn spinner and loved to challenge herself with di erent types of wool or even cat and dog hair. Margrete was preceded in death by her parents attorney Geo rey A. Hughes and Bertha M. Hughes; brother Geo rey A. Hughes II, and uncle Robert (Bob) Hughes. Also, adopted son Steven Lee Cron.

Margrete is survived by her husband of 54 years John Robert Spencer, sister Bert Jackson, nephew Jason Jackson, grandson Steven A. Cron and great grandson Huxley Spencer Cron. Our other adopted son Chris Pinckard.

With that said in the early 1980’s Margrete was in for a big surprise. A private detective approached her with “your birth sister has hired me to locate you”. This lead to a big brother, big sister just to mention two out of a giant family. She was still making friends when she lost her new big brother, big sister and many aunts and uncles. There will be no services. No flowers PLEASE, I can’t keep up the watering of her indoor & outdoor plants. Her wish is for you to check out websites Hands for an African Child and Saving Mono Lake. Another choice would be Snowline Hospice.

OBITUARIES

Lori Kay Kielty

Aug. 28, 1960 – June 20, 2023

Lori Kay Kielty, 62 years old, passed away on Tuesday, June 20th, 2023 of breast cancer. She is survived by her husband, Kenny Kielty, her kids and their spouses, Jarrett & Jenny Scheurer, Brianna & Ian Mack, Katelyn & Randy Mercado and Brendon & Alyssa Kielty; her grandchildren, Colton, Allorrah, Emily, Natalie, Jocelyn and Theia June. Brothers Phil and Steve Morris and sister Karen Armstrong along with many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles are also deeply sadden by the loss of our sister (our parents Jim & Gayle Morris and our brother Kirk Morris all preceded Lori’s death). Lori will be remembered for her GREAT sense of humor, her positivity, her wonderful talent at making beautiful quilts and handmade jewelry but most of all for her strong faith in Jesus Christ our Savior. We all love you Lori and we know that we will see you again someday. As our Mom used to say ... bye for now.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, September 7th, 2023 at 1:00pm at Green Valley Community Church in Placerville, Calif.

Jack Richmond Winkler

Sept. 8, 1927 – June 5, 2023

Jack Richmond Winkler passed away in Placerville on the afternoon of June 5, 2023 at the age of 95 years.

Jack was born September 8, 1927, in Ukiah, CA, to parents Elizabeth Ann (Kingwell) and George Richmond Winkler. After two years of Naval Service (1945-1947, USS Terror), he attended Santa Rosa Junior College, graduating with an Associate Degree with high honors in 1949. He attended Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco and received a Juris Doctor degree in 1952.

Jack served as District Attorney of El Dorado County for 12 years (1954-1966) then moved to the o ce of the California State Attorney General where he worked for 24 years. During his time with the Attorney General, he served as Chief Assistant of the Criminal Law Division (1975-1980) and Chief of the Opinion Unit (1980-1990).

Jack was an active member of the Placerville Lions Club, twice serving as president (1958-1959, 1994-1995), and was named Lion of the Year in 1991.

Jack was always deeply interested in the history of Placerville and El Dorado County. After years of careful research, he wrote and self-published a book on the subject: Old Hangtown – A History of Placerville, California from 1848 through 1856.

Jack married Juanita (Nita) Mae Cortez on March 7, 1953, and the couple lived in Placerville for over 65 years where they raised their three children.

Jack was predeceased by Nita in 2021 and his eldest daughter Reva in 2016. He is survived by his son Jay and daughter Lisa (Hale), Jay’s two sons Gates and Haynes, and their two daughters Maia and Sylvia.

El Dorado Hills athlete selected to train with U.S. Rowing

Chris Torchiana Special to Mountain Democrat

Grace Torchiana, Oak Ridge High School class of 2024, has been selected to train in the U.S. Rowing Selection Development Camp. Torchiana, a rising senior, is one of 44 U19 women selected by U.S. Rowing to train this summer. The camp, which commenced June 18, is an important layer of the rowing program.

SDC is the bridge phase between development and the U19 National Team Selection Camp. It serves to identify and invest in rowing’s top young athletes and support U.S. Rowing’s future national teams. The camp pairs skill work with performance-based training and racing to enhance the ageappropriate development of rowers and coxswains.

The program involves three weeks of training, with significant focus paid to longterm athlete development and instilling the skills necessary for future success in the U19 and U23 system. The final week is testing all of the hard work at the US Rowing Summer Youth National Championship.

At Summer Nationals Torchiana and her fellow rowers won gold (Women’s Open 8+) and bronze (U19 Youth Women’s 8+). They also took fourth place in U23 Women’s 2- and sixth place in U19 Youth Women’s 4+ in those final races.

This is Torchiana’s second year of selection and participation. In 2022 she was selected and attended Youth Development Camp held at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota, Fla. Torchiana trained successfully under several

coaches, including Weston Cole of UCLA/Newport Athletic Club and distinguished herself in the ODP Cup, winning gold in four of four races where she was boated and stroked the 8+ and

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

July 12

10:47 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 26-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was later released.

July 13

2:20 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 37-year-old man suspected of burglary and possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia on De Sabla Road in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody in lieu $115,000 bail.

2:24 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 29-year-old man suspected of a felony parole violation on Beach Court in Lotus. He was listed in custody.

5:04 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 53-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia as well as a postrelease violation on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. He was listed in custody.

6:24 p.m. Grand theft was reported at Ryan Ranch Road in El Dorado Hills.

7:15 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 65-yearold man suspected of DUI in Whitehall. He was later released.

7:48 p.m. Deputies booked into jail an 18-year-old man suspected of DUI on Highway 50 at Ponderosa Road. He was later released.

10:10 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 21-yearold man suspected of DUI on Highway 49 in Lotus. He was later released.

July 14

6:20 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Pine Street in Pollock Pines.

7:45 a.m. Burglary was reported on Nevis Place in El Dorado Hills.

8:06 a.m. Vehicle burglary was

Capt. Jones

Continued from A1

a formal peer review.

The NFA continues to o er programs and courses for fire service leaders, managers and allied professions. Courses are delivered at the Emmitsburg, Md., campus and throughout the nation in coordination with state and local fire training o cials, colleges and universities. For more information visit usfa.fema.gov.

reported on Peavine Ridge Road in Pollock Pines.

10:44 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 63-year-old man suspected of failing to register as a sex offender and diving on a suspended license on Omo Ranch Road in Mount Aukum. He was listed in custody in lieu or $12,000 bail.

10:56 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Sudbury Road in Cameron Park.

3:28 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Bassi Road in Lotus.

3:30 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 33-year-old man suspected of obstruction, battery on a peace office and resisting arrest on Clarksville Road in Rescue. He was

listed in custody in lieu of $65,000 bail.

4:05 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Delos Lane in Placerville.

5:04 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 73-year-old man suspected of DUI on Shingle Springs Drive in Shingle Springs. He was later released.

FINALLY, Medicare & Most Insurance Companies Pay for Treatment of Neuropathy!

CALL NOW 530-622-3536

NEUROPATHY IS

Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and may also lead to serious balance problems. This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood ow to the nerves in the hands and feet. If not properly treated this lack of blood ow may cause the nerves to degenerate.

Healthy Nerve

Healthy Blood Vessels

Diseased Blood Vessels

Nerves Shrivel when Blood Vessels Weak and Disappear

As you can see in Figure 1, as the blood vessels surrounding the nerves become diseased they shrink and shrivel. This process hastens the ow of vital nutrients to the nerves required to remain healthy. When these nerves begin to “die” it could lead to balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling and burning symptoms in the hands and feet.

Figure 1

In order to effectively treat your neuropathy 3 factors must be determined.

What is the underlying cause? 1

How much nerve damage has been sustained? 2

How much treatment will your condition require? 3

Placerville, CA – Currently the most common method most doctor’s recommend to treat neuropathy is with the use of prescription drugs. Although these drugs may temporarily reduce your symptoms they may cause a feeling of discomfort and in some cases lead to a variety of terrible unwanted side effects. We have a different method!

Our advanced treatment method has 3 main goals

Increase Blow ow 1

Stimulate small ber nerves 2

Decrease brain based pain 3

The treatment to increase blood ow utilizes a specialized low-level light therapy (not to be confused with laser therapy) using light emitting diode technology. This technology was originally developed by NASA to assist in increasing blow ow.

The low level light therapy is like watering a tree. The light therapy will allow the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal and repair. It’s like adding water to a tree and seeing the roots grow deeper and deeper.

The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation.

“My feet hurt so bad after sitting I could barely take the rst few steps. I have had 11 treatments and no longer feel sharp or shooting pains and most of the tingling is gone. I now have full balance and can walk without pain. As Dr. Mooney explained the treatment is not painful, nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.” – Neuropathy Pain Patient

Courtesy photo

Two years in a row Grace Torchiana has trained with U.S. Rowing and placed well in competition. She will be a senior at Oak Ridge High School when classes begin next month.

CRIME LOG

■ See TORCHIANA page A7

Assembly Constitutional Amendment 1 is an attack on Prop. 13

Howard Jarvis

Taxpayers

Association members and frequent readers of this column have undoubtedly heard about Assembly Constitutional Amendment 1. ACA 1 is a direct and perennial attack on Proposition 13 that would change the state Constitution to cut the percentage of votes needed to raise special taxes, dropping it from the current two-thirds required under Prop. 13 to only 55%.

This year, hoping to capitalize on California’s dual crises of housing and homelessness, ACA 1 has been slightly altered to allow higher taxes for anything labeled “infrastructure” and for certain public housing projects.

Fortunately, while it is introduced every year, we always manage to beat it back. However, you never know when some deal may be struck that sees ACA 1 sail through. That is especially true in this new Legislature session. With so many new legislators, it is hard to guess what they are going to do. Bad bills pass all the time.

And this might be the year.

ACA 1 passed its first committee earlier this month. What is most worrying is that while it unsurprisingly met with the approval of the tax and spenders (Tasha Boerner, D-Encinitas; Juan Carrillo, D-Palmdale; Matt Haney, D-San Francisco; Blanca Pacheco, D-Downey; James Ramos, D-Highland; Lori Wilson, D-Fairfield), only Diane Dixon, R-Newport Beach, voted no (Marie Waldron, R-Valley Center, didn’t vote).

Why is ACA 1 such a concern? Well, it would make it easier to raise taxes. It would lower the voter approval requirement for sales and parcel tax increases from two-thirds to 55% if the money would be used for “public infrastructure” or “affordable housing.” Proposition 13 mandates a two-thirds vote requirements for all special taxes, but ACA 1 would wipe out that protection for nearly all local taxes because the category of “infrastructure” covers almost anything.

That’s why it’s supported by a smorgasbord of government agencies and unions. In fact, the bill

The Balancing Act

Letters to the Editor

Needle exchange

EDITOR:

Iread with disappointment that both the county and city have written letters to the state requesting to opt out of the state needle exchange program for the coming year. That decision is extremely short-sighted. Studies of needle exchange programs clearly show they play an important role in reducing the harmful effects of drug abuse in any given community.

First, contrary to common belief, studies show that needle exchange programs actually reduce drug use because a primary focus of any given needle exchange program is getting people into rehab programs.

Second, needle exchange programs have been shown to be very effective in slowing the spread of HIV and hepatitis C. If IV drug users do not have access to clean syringes, they will share dirty ones.

Third, needle exchange needle programs save lives. They educate drug users about the dangers of overdosing. In this age of fentanyl-laced drugs and an increasing number of overdose deaths, they reduce the number of those deaths by providing drug users, their families and friends with Narcan which is used in emergency situations to reverse the effects of opioids.

Finally, needle exchange programs have the potential to save thousands, if not millions, of dollars in costs for the treatment of people who have acquired HIV or hepatitis C from drug use. The cost of one syringe is less than a dollar. The cost of treating one person with hepatitis C is about $40,000. The treatment for HIV is lifelong.

In 2014-15, Scott County in rural Southern Indiana suffered a public health crisis. One IV drug user in the county had HIV. In a little over a year’s time, 235 people had contracted HIV from that one person. If there had been a needle exchange program in that county perhaps that disaster could have been avoided or at least greatly reduced.

I strongly suggest that the county supervisors and city council members read the data from the various studies on needle exchange programs and reconsider their decision to opt out of the program.

Clear and present danger

EDITOR:

C.

Opting out of this vital public health program will almost certainly cause an increase in overdose deaths and increased rates of HIV and hepatitis

SCOTT TAYLOR Placerville

Irecently saw a burly man kick in the door of the women’s restroom at the bus stop on Mosquito Road. (Later I saw that the floor was muddy, although there had been no rain for weeks, as though it hadn’t been washed for a long time.)

The man talked cheerfully to himself on the bus as though he were on the phone, which he wasn’t. The bus riders are not much for using their phones on the bus. We look around us and see what we can see. I myself treasure my flip phone so I know what month it is. And, yes, the day and the time.

Is the man’s behavior OK because now we’re all equal? Yikes.

The restrooms on Main Street too have been overlooked in the cleaning department. Explain me this: There is no door on the large cubicle of the women’s restroom and no closable door to the outside world. The other cubicle is so small you brush up against the dirty walls if you can squeeze in. There are no towels or soap.

Most of the businesses on Main Street notify you in writing that they have no public restrooms. It’s unkind, but you can’t say they didn’t warn you.

I want to go on record here as not using the women’s public restrooms in Placerville.

ELIZABETH CAFFREY Placerville

Absence of empathy

EDITOR:

Iwas sarcastically amused by John Garon’s claim about Democratic Party empathy for mothers and infants in his letter to the editor posted June 23.

n See letters page A5

New definitions are destroying women’s sports

Transgender athletes are seeking to compete in women’s sports with their newly claimed gender. Six-foot, oneinch Lia Thomas, who still is a biological male, effectively shut out women in competition at the 2022 NCAA Division 1 women’s swimming championships. Although Thomas claims to have undergone hormone therapy, he/she still has all the male equipment.

I wrote about this possibility over a decade ago, predicting that letting men who identify as women compete against actual women will destroy women’s sports. Now a man claiming to be a woman is going to compete against women in bicycle racing.

What if men who want or need an athletic scholarship to go to college and who can’t make the men’s teams simply claim they are women and then dominate women’s college sports and take their scholarships? And this will likely end up being a one-way street with only men competing as women but not women competing

as men as the physical differences are simply too great.

That’s why up until recently when society started coming apart with the idea there are no absolutes — i.e. one plus one is two, the Earth is round, the Sun is at the center of the solar system, only a biological woman can have a baby, there are only two genders as determined by chromosomes and so on — men were barred from women’s sports. Once these truths or facts are no longer facts, society breaks down. Stealing food is OK if you are hungry. Robbery is OK if you need money to pay the rent and so on. There are no absolutes and that’s where America is heading. It’s all about the destruction of American values.

The next change in sports competition will be age. If a man can compete against women by claiming he is a woman, then in youth sports, 16-year-olds will claim to be 12 years old and that will be the end of Little League. It’s already happened when it was found out 13-year-olds were competing in the LLWS.

in professional sports, there are no men’s NFL, mLB, NBA, NHL and so on. it doesn’t have to be said. if a woman wants to compete, she can. She doesn’t have to claim she is a man.

Back in the 1970s there was a biologically born man who actually competed against women in tennis, but he underwent gender reassignment surgery. Dr. Renee Richards (originally Richard Raskin) was originally barred from the U.S. Open and other major events competing as a woman but in a court case she eventually won the right.

I actually saw Richards play in many tournaments and she was moderately successful, reaching the third round of the U.S. Open (competing against women) in 1979 at the age of 45. Richards also made the finals (and lost) in doubles and the semifinals in mixed doubles playing with “Nasty” Ilie Nastase. She reached a ranking high in 1979 of No. 20. But the best women at the time, such as Virginia Wade, beat her. Most interesting is that she was outed in 1976 by local TV newscaster Richard Carlson, not the actor (“I Led Three Lives”), but the father of Tucker Carlson. Several years ago Serena Williams at 16 and her older sister Venus, who

was ranked 16th in the world, played a match (for fun) after bragging they could beat any man ranked below 200. The man, 30-year-old Karsten Braasch (ranked 203) beat Serena 6-1 and her sister Venus 6-2 and Braasch later said he played easy. Serena, years later in about 2013, said if she were to play Andy Murray, the winner of Wimbledon that year she would lose 6-0, 6-0 in about 10 minutes as men hit it so much harder, are so much faster and put so much more spin on the ball.

In professional sports, there are no men’s NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL and so on. It doesn’t have to be said. If a woman wants to compete, she can. She doesn’t have to claim she is a man.

But the level of competition is so high women cannot compete. If they tried, they would probably get badly hurt; in a couple of stunts it was tried and the result ended badly for the woman.

n See Weitzman page A5

LArry WEiTzmAN

Coupal Continued from A4 is being sponsored by the California Professional Firefighters Association. By the way, these are the same folks who helped pass Prop. 19 to tax your kids out of your family home when they inherit it. Now they’re back for more. If you’re a firefighter, you should really question what your dues are going to.

Proponents will tell you they aren’t raising taxes, you are. They’re just “asking” the question. Don’t be fooled. They know what they are doing. In 2000 voters lowered the threshold needed to approve school bonds from two-thirds to 55% after being promised big improvements in education. This led to billions in higher property taxes. And those promised improvements? Test scores are now lower than ever. Statewide, students meeting the standard for English dropped by 4% (51% to 47%) and for math it fell by 7% (40% to 33%).

ACA 1 is a tax increase, and worse — it’s an engine to raise taxes over and over again in every local election, just by calling any government spending “infrastructure,” even if it’s really for salaries, programs or to free up existing revenue to cover pension liabilities.

And in an especially sneaky trick, ACA 1 goes into effect instantly. That means tax hikes on the same ballot that require a two-thirds vote would automatically require only 55% if ACA 1 passes. Billions of dollars in tax hikes will start that much faster.

Mind you, these are below-the-line exactions that are added to property tax bills above and beyond Prop. 13’s 1% cap. That’s why Prop. 13’s two-

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

thirds vote requirements for all special taxes is so important. It protects property owners and it must stand.

ACA 1 will also have the perversely negative effect of increasing the cost of housing dramatically even as it claims to help make it more affordable.

Nationwide, according to the National Association of Home Builders, a $1,000 home price increase would make 117,932 more households disqualify for the new home mortgage. Making it easier to approve hundreds of dollars a year in new annual bonds, sales and parcel taxes won’t make it easier to afford a home and it won’t make it easier for renters to be able to save.

No matter how you slice it, ACA 1 is a tax hike and any legislator who votes for it is voting to hike your taxes. Be warned.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

Weitzman Continued from A4

Recently an all-star women’s soccer team competed against an average men’s professional team. The score was 12-0 and the men relaxed half way through the match otherwise the score could have been double or more.

Women don’t belong in men’s sports just as men don’t belong in women’s sports. It allows for both sexes to compete on an equal footing.

Larry Weitzman is a resident of Placerville.

Letters Continued from A4

That empathy includes support for killing unborn babies, even those that are dismembered when they can experience pain. It includes refusing medical support for babies born alive after botched abortions. It includes targeting pregnancy care facilities that provide support of mothers and their yet-to-be born children

It includes eliminating fair competition in girls and women’s sports and it includes opposition to requirements for abortion providers to ensure medically safe conditions.

Wow! I confess to being guilty of not having any empathy for these positions.

CHUCK GOMES Cameron Park

Announcements

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 334-2970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot. comt

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) 417-7138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net 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 916-768-4452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at Steve’s Pizza, 3941 Park Dr., El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

Ready for real change?

ceLeBrAte recOvery meets Wednesday nights at 6:30 pm at Bayside Church of Placerville, 4602 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. We are a Christ centered recovery program to find healing and recovery from our hurts, habits, and hangups. Email elebratercovery@ baysideplacerville. com. Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/ CRBaysidePlacerville.

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 fourpart 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. Join fun-loving women Wednesdays 8am-10am at El Dorado High School. Lessons, social events, only $50/year. Call Cindy 805-540-8654. mArsHALL HOsPitAL

AUxiLiAry is looking for volunteers. It is a rewarding opportunity to do something for the community. We will be holding interviews on Tuesday, May 9, 2023. Please contact Linda Grimoldi at 530-6202240 or call the Auxiliary Office at 530-626-2643.

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.

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)6216304 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 except the first Monday of each month. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a nonpartisan organization.

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad

Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

shrimp population. Algal blooms near the shore of the lake and new data on microplastics are also detailed. Other topics include new monitoring and modeling efforts, lowered nitrogen and phosphorus levels and research into the efficacy of no-wake zones.

“The lake is in a state of rapid change, which presents us the opportunity and the challenge to better understand the lake with more and smarter monitoring,” Schladow said. “Within 2022 we had more changes throughout the lake than we’ve experienced over decades.”

The biggest change in the lake had to do with the rapid improvement in clarity from August through December, which was the best measured since the 1980s. This was preceded by the population collapse of mysis shrimp, a species introduced to the lake decades ago, and other changes in the lake’s native phytoplankton and zooplankton.

“There are many complex processes occurring that we don’t fully understand,” Schladow said. “We need to better understand them to continue moving forward.”

As part of research on this topic, an acoustic doppler current profiler was installed this June at 300 feet below the surface on the west side of the lake to provide continuous water velocity measurements and “to track the expected resurgence of the mysis shrimp in the coming years,” the report’s executive summary states.

Nitrogen, algae changes

Restoration and management efforts continued to reduce nutrient and fine particle loads entering the lake. Total nitrogen coming into the lake from the Upper Truckee River, which is the largest source of water into the system, was 11.1 metric tons per year compared to the mean annual load of 17.3 metric tons per year.

Medic 89 Continued from A1

• Georgetown Fire Protection District, one ambulance

Other biological changes included swings in the algal population and its rate of photosynthesis. As the water level fell in 2022 and temperatures increased, so did the makeup of the algal community, with a cyanobacteria comprising the greatest number of phytoplankton. More areas of attached algae, or periphyton, were also noted in 2022. Some 16 miles of beach were fouled by decaying algae washing up on the beaches.

Other report highlights

Water levels in the lake change throughout the year based on weather, inflows and outflows. A wet November and December filled up the lake, bringing it almost to maximum capacity.

Microplastic pollution is an issue in Lake Tahoe, where samples show levels akin to San Francisco Bay. “What goes into Tahoe, stays in Tahoe,” Schladow said. “It’s a worry for every aquatic system.”

TERC has 25 stations around the Lake Tahoe Basin that relay real-time measurements, as well as autonomous underwater vehicles, satellites, drones and helicopters. New, machine learning technology helped to better monitor beaches and near shore areas.

Extreme weather froze Emerald Bay and led to a longer period of vertical mixing in Lake Tahoe.

The State of the Lake report’s production was funded by the California Tahoe Conservancy, Mountain Workspace, Tahoe Fund, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, Tahoe Lakefront Owners’ Association, Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board, The League to Save Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe Marina Association, Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation, Tahoe Water Suppliers Association, TruePoint Solutions, Truckee Tahoe Airport and Incline Village Waste

Solutions to puzzles

HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis

ARIES (March 21-April 19). PARIES (March 21-April 19). People connect in different ways. Not every love story is romantic. Forcing a connection into one category may reduce it to something less beautiful and interesting than it would be if you simply took it moment by moment.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Some keep trying to lower your expectation to what they call “reality.” Reality is many things to many people. You don’t need to accept another person’s definition of it because you’re so adept at creating your own.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). This is your friendly reminder not to waste any time on the things that are resistant to your influence. There’s so much of life that will bend to your will, mold to your work and build to your specifications. Focus there.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Be patient. The challenge at hand is a little like the “plank” exercise. It starts easy enough and gets more difficult with every second, engaging and eventually producing results in every faculty at once. Your endurance will pay off.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The golden rule only works with those who want the same thing. When you “do unto others,” you’ll do what they want, not what you want. This is beyond the golden rule; it is the platinum rule.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You will foresee what could go wrong, which will either make you extremely valuable to a process or inspire you not to be a part of it at all. Being knowledgeable of risk doesn’t mean you’re pessimistic. It means you’re smart.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). The idleness of others bothers you, perhaps because you’re doing far more than your share of the work. You won’t be perceived as bossy if you assign a tasks to others. They will gain a sense of purpose as you gain a sense of ease.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Everything important will be accomplished through other people. Socializing is a dance. You’ll move beautifully now as you feel the rhythms of the room, get in step with others and tune into the push and pull that keeps things interesting.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Your whimsy is irresistible.

People watch what you do and how you do it, then talk about and imitate your moves. Increased popularity means your attention and attendance will be often requested.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). The day plays out like a carnival ride. You end up back where you started, but that’s beside the point. This is about the experience, the thrill and the bragging rights. You’ll get all three.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Is it your job to provide protection, comfort and shelter from the harshness of the world?

Only because you make it your job, a noble aim that gives you a permanent spot in the hearts and minds of your people.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Commitments are life-changing, not because of what happens to you in them but because of the way you must grow to meet their demands. You won’t mind the work today, and you’re earning rewards of your future.

• El Dorado County Fire Protection District, five ambulances with one each in Pollock Pines, Placerville, Pleasant Valley, Shingle Springs and Diamond Springs (this ambulance is operated in partnership with the Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District)

JPA Executive Director Cristy Jorgensen, per the terms of the unanimously approved cancellation notice, has 120 days to work with partner agencies on a new agreement to staff the ambulance — a timeframe she supported.

Whichever agency takes over, Jorgensen assured Cameron Park residents will not see a change in the level of service when an ambulance is called.

“I cannot guarantee (the ambulance) will stay in Cameron Park but it is needed in the vicinity to meet our response times,” she said.

All eight units travel throughout the West Slope, responding to emergencies and filling in for each other.

JPA funding comes from the county and the money is then dispersed equitably per medic unit to

partner agencies staffing/operating ambulances. Up until last fiscal year, the Cameron Park Fire Department was fully reimbursed for costs incurred. In the fiscal year 2023-24 the board previously supported a $1,367,600 contract with the JPA but actual expenses are estimated at $1,547,645.

Jorgensen stressed she has a limited budget and it’s unlikely, given current financial circumstances, the county will increase the JPA’s funding. She also noted every partner agency has different salary/benefits packages for its staff. This, combined with other factors, has resulted in shortfalls not only for Cameron Park, but also two other agencies operating medic units. However, she added, one agency has consistently come in under the contract amount and received full reimbursement — El Dorado County Fire.

Jorgensen’s next step is to issue a request for proposal to JPA member agencies. The JPA Board of Directors will then decide which agency gets the contract. Chief Martin told the board he would be glad to discuss keeping the ambulance at Station 89 with the selected agency.

Lake Tahoe Continued from A1

Torchiana Continued from A3 the 4+ in both the U17 age group and open categories.

Torchiana is a varsity rower for Capital Crew Youth Rowing in Gold River. Capital Crew is a very successful nonprofit competitive youth rowing organization of the

Sacramento State Aquatic Center in existence since 1989. Capital Crew draws on high-school-age athletes from area schools to roster the team. training for the fall 2023 season begins Aug. 21.

In addition to youth rowing,

Torchiana is an Italian Honors student, a member of ORHS chapter of the National Honor Society, a five-year member and former Merci Award winner with National Charity League – El Dorado Hills Chapter and a sports photographer

since 2021 with ORHS Trojan Pride Sports Marketing.

Torchiana said she looks forward to her senior year at Oak Ridge and ultimately hopes to pursue her athletic and academic goals with a NCAA Division I university.

Apple Donuts

Apple Pie

Asian

Bakery

BBQ

Breakfast

Coffee

Delicatessen

Dinner

Donut Store

Fine Dining

Hamburger

Ice Cream / Frozen Yogurt

Italian Lunch

Mexican

Pizza Pub Grub

Ribs

Steak

Sushi

Thai

DINING

Mountain Democrat

2023

Fitness Center

Hair Salon

Nail Salon

Massage/Spa

Tattoo/Piercing

Yoga Studio

HEALTH & BEAUTY

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Appliance Repair

Carpet Cleaning

Contractor

Door Replacement & Accessories

Electrician

Equipment Rentals

Floor Covering Store

Furniture Store

Garage Doors & Repair

Glass Replacement – Commercial

Glass Replacement – Residential

Heating/AC

Home Décor

House Cleaning

Interior Design

Landscaping/Design

Lawnmower Sales/Repair

Nursery/Garden Store

Painting

Plumbing

Pool, Spas & Accessories

Power Tools Sales/Rental

Roofing

Septic Service

Solar Co.

Stove/Fireplace Store

Tree Service

Window Treatments

RETAIL STORES

Jewelry Store

Shoe Store

Toy Store

Travel Agency

PETS

Doggie Daycare

Kennel

Pet Groomer

Pet Trainer

Veterinary Clinic

In the KNOW

July 24

Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive noon to 4 p.m. The Bloodmobile in the parking lot near the baseball fields at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District, 1021 Harvard Way. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment at donors. vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM019 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

July 25 Broadway at Music Circus in Sacramento presents “The Addams Family,” July 25-30. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Rachel Baiman will perform at 7 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

July 26

The Shingle SpringsCameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking luncheon at Moonraker Brewing Co. at 11:30 a.m. For reservations and more information call (530) 677-8000.

Poet Lara Gularte leads a free ekphrastic poetry writing workshop at Switchboard Gallery in Placerville. For more information email Jordan@ ArtsAndCultureElDorado. org.

July 27

If you’ve ever been curious to network with others focused on improving your confidence through public speaking and communication, join Statement Makers – El Dorado Hills/Cameron Park for an open house and officers induction ceremony at Los Pinos in Cameron Park at 6:30 p.m. It’s a group of folks who bring positive and encouraging vibes to feeding personal and professional growth potential.

El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts Live on the Boulevard free concerts every Thursday. The schedule features Maroon Vibes (July 27), Island of Black and White (Aug. 3), Kalimba (Aug. 10), Petty Theft (Aug. 17) Stevie Ray Visited (Aug. 24), Folsom Lake Symphony (Aug. 31) and Uptown Funk (Sept. 7). Set up begins at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

Chicken Fried Cats

Life will perform at The Green Room Social Club in Placerville, 6-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

July 28

Sherwood Demonstration

Garden is open again every Friday and Saturday for open garden days, 9 a.m. to noon. Take a leisurely stroll through all 16 themed gardens. Docents are on site to assist with any gardening questions.

Check the website before visiting at ucanr.edu/sites/ EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden.

Musician Ed Wilson will perform 6-8 p.m. at Jack Russell Farm and Brewery in Camino.

Smith Flat House in Placerville hosts a Bumgarner Winemaker’s

aPPle Hill Growers’

Summer bounty on display

Jennifer Sweeney Apple Hill Growers

Why wait until fall? Summer is spectacular at Apple Hill Growers farms. The namesake crop isn’t ready for a few more weeks, but there is an abundance of summer crops and fun farm experiences all season long. Summer Harvest Days, July 29 & 30 and Aug. 5 & 6, shine a spotlight on mouthwatering stone fruits, juicy berries, healthy veggies, scrumptious baked goods and jams, plus the area’s best wines and hard cider.

Many area farms offer special items and fun experiences for the whole family:

24 Carrot Farm: The summer bounty includes vegetables, stone fruits and berries. Enjoy U-pick strawberries, blackberries and flowers.

Bluestone Meadow Farm: Stock up on luscious lavender products like soap and lotions in the gift shop.

Boeger Winery: Enjoy wine serving flights, glasses and bottles in the tasting room, inside the cozy historical cellar or on the picnic grounds, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Delfino Farms & Edio

Vineyards: Joan’s Apple Bakery is selling peach desserts made with fruit from fellow grower GoldBud Farms. Edio Vineyards is open for wine tasting.

Fenton Herriot Vineyards: The winery serves flights, glasses and bottles in its picnic area.

Goldbud Farms: Opening this month, the farmstand is stocked with ripe stone fruit, including peaches, plums, nectarines and pluots. Buy 5 pounds of fruit and get it for the price of 4 these weekends.

Harris Family Farm: Pick your own flowers, marionberries and blackberries and enjoy live music and a marketplace of local vendors. The bake shop will be open with summer fruit delights plus lavender lemonade and apple cider slushies. Don’t miss live music, noon to 3 p.m.

Hidden Star Camino:

Cool down in the Cider Barn with 24 hard ciders on tap, including six new summer inspired flavors.

Jack Russell Farm & Brewery: Enjoy handcrafted ales, ciders and wines, including seasonal Blueberry Ale, Peach Pilsner and Peach Mead. Complement your visit with U-pick blueberries.

Lava Cap Winery: The tasting room and mountain gardens are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Madroña Vineyards: Pair a summer fruit dessert with Fiore, the winery’s white muscat with hints of peach and apricot. The tasting room is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended.

Pine-O-Mine Ranch: The ranch serves barbecue fare, doughnuts, peach and apple cider shakes, hard cider, beer and more.

Rucksack Cellars: Taste wines that exhibit the depth

and diversity of the Sierra foothills while enjoying the scenic canyon view.

Wofford Acres Vineyards: Come for the wines, stay for the view. Purchase a bottle and your flight is on the house. Reservations are recommended. For more information about the Apple Hill Growers visit applehill.com and follow @ applehillofficial on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-theminute news.

Let’s talk native plants

Kathleen Barco California Native Plant Society

The July general meeting of the El Dorado Chapter of the California Native Plant Society will take place in person (not on Zoom) 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, July 25, in the Cameron Park Community Center social room, 2502 Country Club Drive.

Following the business portion of the meeting, members of the chapter will present a mini conference about many of the projects and efforts that have been undertaken, both solo and in partnership with other agencies. For people who are interested in native plants but aren’t sure where or how they could get started or involved, this will be an informative and helpful meeting.

Here are some projects EDC CNPS volunteers have conducted or been part of:

• Holding twice-yearly plant sales to provide homeowners with plants for their yards;

• Supporting the U.S. Forest Service in a Caldor Fire n See Plants, page

Courtesy photo

Several Apple Hill Growers offer U-pick berries this time of year.

No trip to Apple Hill is complete without sampling a doughnut (or two) and adults can also enjoy great wines, beers and ciders.

have a common interest in socializing and pursuing activities while exploring and supporting our community.

The “new” in newcomers means you are looking for new friendships in El Dorado Hills. And those new friendships often prove to be a lifeline. You might have just moved to the area for work or recently retired. Perhaps you’re an empty nester, single or married or just looking for a way to connect with the warm and wonderful community.

What it means to belong

Member Laurel reflects on what the club means to her, sharing, “Newcomers serves a vital role for our members because it offers us a chance to give ourselves the care and attention we have always given to others and to have some fun.

“Newcomers’ membership relights that fire,” Laurel continued. “We meet new people, explore new interests, visit new places, learn new things, contribute our talents, gain selfknowledge, be good to others and ourselves, learn that we all deserve care and attention and realize that life

is not over. We each have much more to do, learn, give and share. What could be better than that?”

What things are happening?

The EDH Newcomers Club has everything from a book club to bunco, walking to wine gatherings, golfing to gourmet cooking, card games to crafting and much more. Events feature unique experiences scattered throughout the year for everyone to enjoy. They may include trips to wineries, theater events, bowling or special themed parties with many surprises — something for everyone. Members are also open to starting new activities reflecting other interests and talents.

The club meets for camaraderie at luncheons on the second Wednesday of each month at local restaurants and venues.

EDH Newcomers is “A Club with Heart.” Members look after one another and also adopt a local charity to support through giving and volunteering to help ease its burden.

How can you join?

Visit the club’s website at edhnewcomers.com.

Send an email (edhncemail@gmail. com), be a guest at a luncheon or attend a Welcome Event where you can meet some of our members to see why the Newcomers Club is a special asset to the community and its residents.

Author’s new book takes flight

Omid Manavirad Special to the Mountain Democrat

Award-winning mystery writer Todd Borg will speak about his new book Tuesday, July 25, at the El Dorado County Library South Lake Tahoe branch, 1000 Rufus Allen Blvd.

“Tahoe Flight” is the 21st book in the Tahoe-based mystery series about Det. Owen McKenna and his loyal sidekick, a Great Dane named Spot.

Library doors open at 5 p.m. for book signing, Borg’s talk will begin at 5:30 p.m and the event may run until 7 p.m.

“Tahoe Flight” follows the story of Benito Diaz, whose mother was murdered when he was a teenager. McKenna was a rookie on the San Francisco Police Department and he helped catch the killer, Tucker Dopple. Benito’s testimony put Dopple in prison.

Two decades later Dr. Benito Diaz is an oncologist and Dopple has been paroled. The convicted murderer stalks Diaz and McKenna. When Diaz goes to a doctors’ reunion in Tahoe, Dopple has an opportunity to kill both Dr. Diaz and Detective McKenna at the same time.

The novel also includes a second perilous adventure when McKenna and Spot are kidnapped by a crazed pilot determined to drop them into Lake Tahoe.

Borg moved to Tahoe in 1990. His books are set in the iconic Tahoe landscape, including the routes and roads familiar to many Lake Tahoe natives.

“I grew up on detective novels, characters like Nero Wolfe and Travis McGeem” Borg shared. “I always thought it would be fun to write. So I dreamed up Owen McKenna based on

what I thought would be interesting.”

Mckenna, a fictional Tahoe-based private investigator who served in the San Francisco Police Department for 20 years, is the main character of Borg’s books. He has solved cases involving rescuing an 8-year-old girl (in “Tahoe Moon”), a letter from Abraham Lincoln (in “Tahoe Jade”), a revenge murder modeled after Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” (in “Tahoe Hit”) and many other mysteries.

“I didn’t want to give him a flamboyant personality like some other detectives but I wanted a regular guy in the sense of an ex-cop. I left the larger personality for his Great Dane, Spot,” Borg said.

Although the official publication date for “Tahoe Flight” is Aug., Borg will have copies of the new book available for signing at his Tahoe library talk.

Plants Continued from B1

follow-up survey;

• Leading hikes and plant walks all over the county to educate the public about the beauty and importance of native plants;

• Creating a mostly native demonstration plant garden next to the county library in Placerville;

• Protecting and educating about the rare plants of Pine Hill Preserve and working with scientists at University of California, Davis to identify the genetics of the very rare Pine Hill flannel bush. There are many more projects — past, current, and planned — for people to learn about. Members of the public are encouraged to come and learn about how they might get involved or to simply get more information about native plants. There is no cost to attend. CNPS members will not be able to present on every project but people will be available to answer questions.

The California Native Plant Society is a nonprofit organization working to save and celebrate California’s native plants and places via plant science, advocacy, education and horticulture. CNPS has nearly 10,000 members in 35 chapters throughout California and Baja. The El Dorado Chapter of CNPS is active in educating about as well as identifying and protecting the many endemic plants of the area. To learn more about native plants and CNPS visit cnps.org or eldoradocnps.org.

release

RASS VALLEY —The Center for the Arts presents James McMurtry with Opener BettySoo in the Marisa Funk Theater July 25. The son of one of America’s most celebrated novelists Larry McMurtry, author of “Lonesome Dove,” James McMurtry followed the family’s tradition of masterful storytelling, relating his tales in verse and music. He tours year-round and consistently throws down unparalleled powerhouse performances, reflected in the release of two live discs: the universally lauded “Live in Aught-Three” on Compadre Records and 2009’s “Live in Europe,” which captured James’ first European tour and extraordinary live set.

In James’ new effort, “The Horses and the Hounds,” the acclaimed songwriter backs personal narratives with effortless elegance and endless energy. His first collection of work in seven years, out now on New West Records, spotlights a seasoned tunesmith in peak form as he turns toward reflection and revelation. Familiar foundations guide

the journey. “There’s a definite Los Angeles vibe to this record,” James said. “The ghost of

The Public Square

Employment Employment

Courtesy photo

Warren Zevon seems to be stomping around among the guitar tracks. Don’t know how he got in there. He never

signed on for work for hire.”

His lauded storytelling — check out songs such as “Operation Never Mind” and “Ft. Walton Wake-Up Call” on The Horses and the Hounds — has consistently turned heads for decades.

“James writes like he’s lived a lifetime,” said John Mellencamp back in 1989, when “Too Long in the Wasteland,” his first album, hit the Billboard 200.

“James McMurtry is one of my very few favorite songwriters on Earth and these days he’s working at the top of his game,” said Americana all-star Jason Isbell. “He has that rare gift of being able to make a listener laugh out loud at one line and choke up at the next. I don’t think anybody writes better lyrics.”

James’ albums “Just Us Kids” (2008) and “Childish Things” (2005) back the claim, each scoring endless critical praise. The former earned James his highest Billboard 200 chart position in two decades (since eclipsed by “Complicated Game”) and notched Americana Music Award nominations. “Childish Things” spent six full weeks topping the Americana Music

Radio chart in 2005 and 2006 and won the Americana Music Association’s Album of the Year, with “We Can’t Make It Here” named the organization’s Song of the Year. Accordingly, the new collection marks another upward trajectory. “The Horses and the Hounds” will be Jams’ debut album on genre-defining Americana record label New West Records.

“I first became aware of James McMurtry’s formidable songwriting prowess while working at Bug Music Publishing in the ’90s,” said New West President John Allen. “He’s a true talent. All of us at New West are excited at the prospect of championing the next phase of James’ already successful and respected career.” McMurtry perfectly fits a label housing “artists who perform real music for real people.”

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 25, at The Center for the Arts, 314 West Main St. in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information call (530) 274-8384 or visit thecenterforthearts.org.

emailing

Beck at slbeck@gd-pud.org. Return a completed application to the District of ce by mail, or email to: slbeck@gd-pud.org. Georgetown Divide Public Utility District P.O. Box 4240 Georgetown, CA. 95634

For further information call (530) 333-4356 or visit our website at www.gd-pud.org

Substitute Cafeteria Assistant, Cook, and Maintenance Custodian Positions at Sly Park Set your own schedule and enjoy the flexibility of a substitute at the beautiful Sly Park Conservation and Environmental Education Center near Pollock Pines.

Starting Hourly Rates: Cafeteria Assistant -$16.40 hr., Cook- $19.01 hr., Maintenance Custodian - $19.49 hr. Click here to apply today: http://www.edjo.in/1807592

5.125% 5.93%

5.42%

Check the El Dorado Advantage: ✔ No Application Fee ✔ No Prepayment Penalty ✔ Local Processing and Servicing PLACERVILLE • 4040 El Dorado Road • 530-622-1492 PLACERVILLE • (Downtown) 247 Main • 530-622-0833 W. PLACERVILLE • Placerville Dr. & Ray Lawyer • 530-626-3400 DIAMOND SPRINGS • 694 Pleasant Valley Road 530-626-5701 CAMERON PARK 4060 Cameron Park Drive • 530-677-1601 POLLOCK PINES • 6462 Pony Express Trail 530-644-2363 EL DORADO HILLS 3963 Park Drive • 916-933-3002 GEORGETOWN • 6310 Hwy. 193 530-333-1101 PURCHASE • REFINANCE Mountain Democrat 3.1806” wide by 6” high Serving our local communities for over 60 years RATE APR 2.625 2.90 RATE APR 3.500 3.66 360 Monthly Payments of $4.49 per $1,000 Borrowed 180 Monthly Payments of $6.72 per $1,000 Borrowed 15 Year Term Fixed Rate Loan 30 Year Term Fixed Rate Loan www.eldoradosavingsbank.com Se Habla Espanol 800-874-9779 NMLSR ID 479256 Serving our local communities for 65 years 530-626-1399 384 Placerville Dr, Ste. B • Placerville Porch Pirate Safety Zone! Now offering a SAFE place for your packages. Have your packages delivered here at NO CHARGE! Solving problems… it’s what we do! Since 1984! New & Refurbished Computers Sales and Service

■ SUDOKU SOLUTIONS Maximum loan $650,000, primary or vacation residence. 20% minimum cash down payment on purchase. 25% equity required on refinance. Other loans available under different terms. Maximum loan $424,100.00, primary or vacation residence. 20% minimum cash down payment on purchase. 25% equity required on refinance. Other loans available under different terms. LOAN TERMS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

News release

SACRAMENTO —

The California State Capitol Museum Volunteer Association is recruiting volunteers and taking applications to work as docents in the State Capitol Museum. To learn more about the important role of volunteers and get an insider’s tour of the Capitol, interested adults (ages 18 and older) are encouraged to attend a drop-in open house, 1-3 p.m. Tuesday, July 25, at the State Capitol.

Training classes will begin in the fall of 2023. The training will be a combination of in-person classes and remote learning via the computer. Training will take approximately four weeks, covering the Capitol’s historical rooms and the government function of the building.

Volunteering at the Capitol is a unique and rewarding opportunity to meet the many visitors to the Capitol and share information about the architecture of the building, California history and view democracy in action. Volunteer open house attendees should enter the north side of the Capitol to check-in on July 25.

To sign up for the open house in advance (not required) or for more information about the opportunity contact Megan Stanley at Megan.Stanley@parks. ca.gov or call (279) 7894347. More information can be found at capitolmuseum.ca.gov/ about/volunteer.

The California State Capitol Museum Volunteer Association (CSCMVA) is a volunteer cooperating association partnering with the California State Parks to promote educational and interpretive activities of the California State Capitol Museum.

James McMurtry performs Tuesday evening at The Center for the Arts.

State Capitol Museum calls for volunteers

Elevate Summer Entertaining

EnjoyAblE CrunCH with

Family Features

an

as families and friends gather on patios and decks to enjoy the warmth of summer and meals fresh off the grill, many are searching for that perfect ingredient that can complement salads, appetizers, main courses, desserts and more.

This year, you can turn to pecans to elevate meals and give your guests something to rave about. Iconic for their flavor versatility - shining in a wide range of profiles from sweet and spicy to salty, smoky and savory - they’re a tasty addition for favorite summertime recipes.

From an enjoyable crunch to comforting creaminess and a satisfying chew, pecans deliver a perfect bite and texture. these Grilled Pork Chops with Peach Pecan Salsa, for example, are loaded with fresh flavors for an easy, nutritious warm-weather meal. taste is just the beginning - pecans also pack a nutritious punch with a unique mix of health-promoting nutrients and bioactive compounds. Known for their rich, buttery consistency and naturally sweet taste, pecans have a longstanding tradition as a nut topping. they’re sprinkled atop this spiced Pecan Grilled Peach salad with Goat Cheese for a refreshing seasonal salad with a nutty crunch.

To find more recipes that take summer entertaining to the next level, visit EatPecans.com.

Spiced Pecan

Grilled Peach

Salad with Goat Cheese

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 50 minutes

servings: 4

Spiced Pecans:

1 large egg white

3 tablespoons dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon cayenne

pepper

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

2 cups pecan halves

Salad:

1/4 cup, plus 2 teaspoons, extravirgin olive oil or pecan oil, divided

1/4 cup white wine

vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon

mustard

1/4 teaspoon garlic

powder

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

pepper, to taste

2 large peaches, halved and pits removed

6 cups mixed baby greens (such as arugula, spring mix and spinach)

4 ounces soft goat

cheese

To make spiced pecans:

Preheat oven to 275 F. line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

in medium bowl, whisk egg white, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne pepper and salt until well combined. Fold in pecans and mix until evenly coated in mixture. spread in single layer on prepared baking sheet.

Bake 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally until pecans are fragrant and golden brown. allow to cool completely.

To make salad: Heat grill to medium-high heat.

in small bowl, whisk 1/4 cup olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt and pepper, to taste. set aside.

Brush cut sides of peach halves with remaining olive oil and grill until

grill lines appear and peaches become tender, 3-5 minutes. remove peaches and cut into slices.

Divide greens among four plates. top with grilled peach slices and

Grilled Pork Chops with Peach Pecan Salsa

Prep time: 25 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

servings: 4

4 boneless pork loin chops (each 1-inch thick)

3/4 teaspoon, plus 1/8 teaspoon, kosher salt, divided freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 medium peaches, diced

2/3 cup raw pecan pieces

2 tablespoons red onion, diced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

1 teaspoon minced jalapeno pepper

2 teaspoons lime juice

goat cheese. Divide 1 cup spiced pecans evenly among salads and reserve remaining cup for snacking. Drizzle each salad with vinaigrette.

#16693

Source: American Pecan Promotion Board

season pork chops with 3/4 teaspoon salt and black pepper, to taste.

Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Grill pork chops until browned, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook 5-6 minutes until food thermometer inserted in center registers 135 F. transfer to plate and rest at least 5 minutes until internal temperature rises to 145-160 F. Gently stir peaches, pecans, onion, basil, jalapeno, lime juice and remaining salt. add salsa on top of each pork chop with remaining salsa on side.

A Tasty Meal for a Heart-Healthy Summer

Hawaiian Huli

Huli Chicken

recipe courtesy of the National Heart, lung, and Blood institute

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

servings: 4

Sauce:

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 tablespoons light soy

sauce

2 tablespoons honey

2 teaspoons orange juice

1 teaspoon garlic (about 1 clove), minced

1 teaspoon ginger, minced

12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 large breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 24 cubes)

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (about 24 pieces)

8 wooden skewers (6 inches each), soaked in water

To make sauce: Combine ketchup, soy sauce, honey, orange juice, garlic and ginger; mix well. separate into two bowls and set aside.

Preheat