Kamaal Yusuf, who was charged with second-degree murder for the fentanyl-related death of a 20-yearold Shingle Springs resident in 2022, pleaded guilty on March 21 and will be sentenced to 15 years to life, according to an El Dorado County District Attorney press release.
The 15-year sentence is the maximum possible sentence allowed under the law for second-degree murder, according to DA’s O ce. The guilty plea comes almost three years after Yusuf sold counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl that led to the death of Shingle Springs resident Gillian PetersonMurray.
Yusuf was arrested in early 2023 at his parents’ Elk Grove home, where law enforcement found over 5,000 fentanyl-laced pills, cocaine and an illegally-owned rifle. He pleaded not guilty in
Shooting injures one ■ Suspect taken into custody
Mountain Democrat sta A 56-year-old man su ered a non-life threatening injury after reportedly being shot Monday afternoon, according to El Dorado County sheri ’s o cials. Around 2:20 p.m. on Monday, March 24, EDSO Dispatch received a phone call indicating that a shooting had occurred at a residence in the 5600 block of Rocky Ridge Road south of Placerville, reads an EDSO social media post. Deputies immediately responded to the area. The victim, a resident of Placerville, was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The suspect in the assault was identified as Sven Gosta Metour, 57, of Placerville. Deputies contacted Metour in his vehicle and he was taken into custody without incident, the post noted. Metour was arrested and booked into the El Dorado County Jail in Placerville on suspicion of assault with a firearm and being a felon in possession of a firearm. As of Tuesday morning, Metour was listed in custody with bail set at $210,000. Due to the active nature of the investigation, sheri ’s o cials noted no further information will be provided at this time.
CLASS ACTS
First responders treated to dinner, awards
Chris Woodard Sta writer
The Mother Lode Lions Club celebrated El Dorado County’s finest at the annual recognition dinner for local firefighters and sheri ’s o cers in Diamond Springs on March 20.
The Mother Lode Lions club has been hosting the dinner since 2007. This year, EDSO School Resource O cers team and two local firefighters stood in the spotlight.
“I’m proud to be here honoring our fire and sheri ’s department in recognition of exemplary work and keeping our community safe,” said Mother Lode Lions Club President Jim Serpa. “We’re really
proud of you guys.” EDSO usually recognizes one of two deputies at the annual dinner, but El Dorado County Sheri Je Leikauf explained he wanted to recognize a
specific team this year — the school resource o cers.
“As school safety concerns grow across the nation, our SROs have made it their priority to engage with students, work alongside administrators and build strong partnerships with the El Dorado County
Mountain Democrat photos by Chris Woodard
El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officers Keith Dougherty, Patrick Rude, Jordan Duncan, Daniel Freeman and Kyle Emmitt, left to right, are all smiles after receiving special recognition from the Mother Lode Lions Club last week.
KAMAAL YUSUF
Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Chief Matt Gallagher recognizes Engineer Christian Balderson at the annual dinner, noting Balderson’s reliability and professionalism.
ESSENTIALS
Dorothy Wheatley (Schrader) Hu stutler
Feb 15, 1920 – March 18, 2025
Dorothy Hu stutler passed away March 18, 2025, at the age of 105, with her daughter by her side. She was born before women could vote, lived as a young child without running water, survived the Depression, and was one of <4% of women in the U.S. who earned a college degree in 1942. Born on a farm in Oriole, Indiana to George and Elizabeth (Wheatley) Schrader, she had two older siblings, Helen and George. She grew up in Blue Springs, Missouri, graduated from Park College, and began teaching in Paris, Missouri where she met her husband, Edgar Hu stutler. After marrying on D-Day in 1944, they lived in various towns in North Texas where Ed was a Methodist minister. She was always involved in the community, the church, and her children’s activities, and finished her Masters degree at North Texas State University. In Dallas, Dottie excelled as a high school speech, debate, and English teacher, coaching debaters and orators who won national tournaments. She retired in 1986 to help care for her mother in California. She and Ed moved to Palo Alto upon his retirement in 1990. During the 25 years she lived in the Bay Area, she volunteered at a peace center, taught English to an immigrant who became a U.S. citizen, taught Sunday School, traveled to foreign countries, cultivated beautiful flowers, cared for her older sister, and provided her family with love, guidance, and laughter. After the deaths of her husband in 2013 and her sister in 2014, she moved to Ponte Palmero in Cameron Park to be close to her daughter. Dorothy was smart, hardworking, creative, and always helping others. She had strong ideas of right and wrong, and cared deeply about the issues of peace as well as gender and racial equality. She was preceded in death by her husband Ed, sister Helen, brother George and his son George, and is survived by her son Steve (Colette), grandson Jonathan (Amelie), and greatgrandson Eric all of France, and by her daughter Sue (Mike) of El Dorado and niece Ann (Zaki) of Ventura. Donations can be made to organizations that promote peace or racial/gender equality.
Wayne Paul Silva Sr.
Oct. 28, 1936 – March 8, 2025
Wayne Paul Silva Sr., a beloved father, grandfather, and dedicated union ironworker, passed away peacefully in Carmichael, California, on March 8, 2025, at the age of 88. Born in Oakland, California, Wayne graduated from Castlemont High School and spent over six decades as a proud member of the Union Ironworkers Local 378 in Oakland. His passion for his craft began after watching the construction of the San Rafael Bridge, which inspired him to pursue a career as an ironworker. Over the years, Wayne’s skilled hands helped build many structures, including homes for his family and countless others. Wayne lived in Somerset, California, for more than 40 years. He found joy in the simple moments, often relaxing on his balcony with a beer in hand, overlooking the serene canyon below. He is survived by daughters Lori Miller, Terry Schley, and Brenda Knight and his son, Wayne Silva Jr., and daughter-in-law Olga Silva. He was also the proud grandfather of 10 grandchildren and great-grandfather to many. Wayne’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His generosity, work ethic, and unwavering love for his family left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to be part of of his life. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
Arthur “Ray”
Baumgardner II
Feb. 24, 1956 – March 9, 2025
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Arthur Ray Baumgardner II. Ray was a great guy... funny, caring, generous, always willing to help anyone in need.
Ray was born in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He grew up in various parts of the United States, New Mexico, Nevada, Washington State, Chicago and California. He started 9th and 10th grades at Del Campo in Sacramento and spent his senior year at Fremont High School in Sunnyvale.
He worked as a mechanic at Mo ett Field in Mountain View, California for 15 years. Then at Toyota of Sunnyvale until 1999. He then began working at Folsom Lake Toyota. Around 2004 he moved on to Goodyear Tire in Placerville for Jim McIntire, later Cathy McIntire, before switching careers to become a real estate appraiser.
Ray married Letty Bejarano in 1994, and they moved to Somerset in 1999. They divorced in 2018, but remained good friends until his passing.
Ray loved anything outdoors, camping, hunting and fishing.
He loved his dogs, CC, Max, Pepper, Rusty and Diva. May they all greet him at the rainbow bridge!
He was very proud that he had taught Letty how to hunt and shoot Trap. He would often joke about how she outshot him in Trap.....
Ray leaves behind, Letty Bejarano-Carvajal, brother, John Baumgardner, sister, Brenda (Gary) Mattson, Cousin Christy Paulsell, nieces Heather Lynn Baumgardner, PJ Paulsell, and many more cousins, nieces and nephews. His dear friends Gordon & Sandra Prow, Sue & Bart Woolsey, and so many more. You will be missed more than you ever know!
Rest easy Ray, you are finally by the lake with a fishing pole in the water!
Services to be held at a later date. Contact Letty Bejarano-Carvajal @ lettyb2009@gmail.com.
Judy Diane Eilders
April 23, 1958 – Nov. 29, 2024
Deputies respond to possible gunfire near high school
Woodard
Chris
Sta writer
El Dorado County sheri ’s deputies and El Dorado County Probation Department o cers investigated a reported gunshot in the area by Independence High School on Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs on March 24, according to EDSO.
The incident is currently under investigation, but it has been determined that there is no threat to the school or the public, according to law enforcement o cials.
No other details are available at this time.
Independence High School is a continuation school in the El Dorado Union High School District and serves 102 students, according to the California Department of Education.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the EDSO non-emergency line at (530) 621-5655.
Information sought for reported assault, attempted theft
Chris Woodard Sta writer
El Dorado County sheri ’s deputies are investigating a reported assault and attempted theft of a bicycle that occurred on March 18 on the bike trail behind Walmart on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.
ADDRESSES
In loving memory, and with profound sadness, we announce the passing of Judy Diane Eilders, 66, of South Lake Tahoe, California. We rejoice that she is with Jesus, and we will see her again in paradise! She died in Sacramento, California, on November 29, 2024, after a brief illness. Judy was born on April 23, 1958, in Des Moines, Iowa, to John and Darlene Eilders. Her family moved to California in 1960 when her father accepted a position with Aerojet. Judy grew up in Cameron Park and graduated from Ponderosa High School a year early in 1974. She attended college on and o while dabbling in many career pursuits such as British Airways, dental hygienist, nursing and a ski instructor at Sierra At Tahoe. South Lake Tahoe had her heart, and she lived there for over 30 years while working as a renowned blackjack dealer. Judy had a magnetic personality and a beautiful smile. She enjoyed entertaining family and friends at her place in Tahoe, as well as golfing, hiking, biking, sewing, macramé, cooking and was an avid skier, even traveling to Europe for vacation and skiing in Switzerland. Judy was a loving mother to her son, Gavin, whom she adored. He was the light of her life. They loved to travel, skiing in di erent states, golfing at Edgewood, biking around Lake Tahoe and going to di erent beaches along the coast of California. Judy loved being pampered, getting manicures and pedicures was one of her favorite relaxations. She cherished her family and friends, enjoying family gatherings, and always remembering to send birthday cards and notes to everyone. She was always full of life, with Jesus Christ as her savior, sharing her faith with those she met in her path. Judy is dearly missed by all of us. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, passing away just five weeks after her mom, and is survived by her beloved son, Gavin, her siblings Nancy, Johnny (Penny), Susan (Chris) and Sandra (Brian), and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held on April 6th, at 2:00 p.m. at Judy’s home church, Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Road, Cameron Park, California, with a meal to follow.
CONTACT US T. Burt McNaughton COO (530) 344-5055 / tbmcnaughton@mtdemocrat.net Noel Stack
A male cyclist was reportedly assaulted and knocked from his bike by two unidentified males who attempted to steal the man’s bicycle around 4 p.m. Their e orts were thwarted by a witness who came to the victim’s aid, according to EDSO. Both suspects fled the scene on foot.
The first suspect is described as about 6 feet tall, with longer hair and an athletic build. He was seen wearing a light-colored sweatshirt and pants, a twotone trucker hat and carrying a dark gray backpack. The second suspect is described as a tall male with a slender build.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Sheri ’s O ce nonemergency line at (530) 621-5655 and reference EDSO case 25-01973.
Fatal quad accident reported on SR-89
Tahoe Daily Tribune News release
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — A man was found dead early Friday morning on SR-89 near his crashed quad.
On March 21 around 3:25 a.m. the South Lake Tahoe CHP o ce received a call of a crash and a body lying in a ditch.
The 911 call came in from a Caltrans employee who was on SR-89 doing checks for rock landslides. The Caltrans employee observed a beer can in the roadway and what he thought was a blood spot. The Caltrans employee turned around to check the area and observed a white male lying in a ditch.
While en route to the scene, CHP was advised the Alpine County Fire Dept. and Alpine County Sheri were on the scene and pronounced the party deceased. They also advised a green Honda quad was over the embankment.
Once CHP was on the scene, they found physical evidence that supports the deceased was riding the quad southbound on SR-89 and made an unsafe turning movement. This caused the rider to be ejected from the quad and land on the roadway surface. The quad continued in a southwesterly direction over a dirt embankment and approximately 500 feet down a hill landing on the Carson Riverbank.
No helmet was located at the scene and physical evidence indicates no helmet was being worn at the time of the crash. There was no evidence the party was struck by another vehicle causing the crash or after the crash. There were no witnesses. Alcohol is suspected as a contributing factor in this crash.
EID board OK’s additional tree removal, pipeline rehab projects
Jack Carrerow
Mountain Democrat correspondent
The El Dorado Irrigation District Board of Directors was back in session Monday, March 24. Following the flag salute, there was a moment of silence to honor the passing of El Dorado County Fire Marshal Lucas Shepard, who perished in a snorkeling accident last week in Hawaii.
The first action item concerned legislative bills at the state government level that would a ect the district. The presentation of these bills was given by Robert Speer of Speer Government Relations LLC, the lobbyist for the district. Assistant general counsel Elizabeth Leeper pointed out there are currently 40 bills that could impact EID.
Speer went through 10 of these bills that dealt with everything from dam safety, water rate assistance, fire safety and
drought relief programs, to how the district’s vehicles are not considered as emergency vehicles and how one bill requires the district’s vehicles be electric and emission free.
The next action item asked that the board consider approving a contract change order for Mozingo Construction Inc. in the not-to-exceed amount of $786,033 for additional tree removal for the Sly Park Intertie improvements.
EID Senior Civil Engineer Andrew Shaw told directors representatives of the company doing the work on the Sly Park Intertie, Monzingo Construction, said there are an additional 396 trees that need to be removed. When queried as to why there were so many more, Shaw said the terrain and the inability to correctly count trees accurately during the flyover contributed to the inaccurate number. The removals would amount to a little
over $2000 per tree. Shaw said this change order could be covered by the contingency funds already allocated for the project.
Approval was given by a 5-0 vote.
The final action item asked the board to consider awarding contracts in the not-to-exceed amounts of $1,548,500 to Express Sewer and Drain Inc. for construction; $158,400 to Inferrera Construction Management Group Inc. for construction inspection services; and authorize project funding of $75,000 for construction engineering services; $125,000 for capitalized labor; and $190,690 for contingency — for a total funding request of $2,097,590 for the 2024 Collections Rehabilitation.
EID Senior Civil Engineer Patrick Wilson outlined the ■ See PROJECTS, page A5
Make a splash at upcoming fishing derby in Placerville
News release
Don’t miss out on Placerville’s 38th annual Spring Fishing Derby, 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, at Lumsden Park.
The fishing derby is open to all kids in preschool through eighth grade. This event is sponsored by the city of Placerville Community Services Department, the El Dorado County Fish & Game Commission, the Placerville Kiwanis Club and the Placerville Lions Club.
The fishing derby is held rain or shine. All participants should bring their own fishing equipment. Lumsden Park is located at 3144 Wiltse Road, Placerville. For more information call (530) 642-5232.
PERIODONTAL DISEASE AND HEART HEALTH
We’ve known for a long time that oral health affects the health of our hearts and our entire bodies. Gum disease and periodontal disease (advanced gum disease) have long been linked to heart health and heart disease, but the reasons behind it may be more extensive than many people realize. Gum disease causes bleeding gums, and bacteria in the mouth can easily enter the bloodstream and cause an infection called endocarditis, a stroke, or a heart attack. The inflammation from gum disease also causes hardened arteries and restricts blood flow to the heart, increasing risk of heart attack and stroke. It also causes pathogens that elevate cholesterol, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and C-reactive proteins, all of which increase cardiovascular risks. We firmly believe that education and preventive care are key to optimal dental health as well as overall health. That’s why we are focused on a healthy smile as well as a healthy body for all our patients. To achieve these goals, we conduct thorough exams, review medical histories, and provide instruction on diet and proper brushing and flossing techniques. If you are as concerned as we are about healthy teeth and
Little provides quality family and cosmetic dentistry. His office is located at 344 Placerville Dr., Suite 19, Placerville. (530) 626-9127 Visit us at: www.jefflittledds.com
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Housing El Dorado partners with Non-Profit Construction
25 build in Grizzly Flat
Frank Porter Housing El Dorado
A generous anonymous donation toward affordable housing on El Dorado County’s west slope has allowed Housing El Dorado to contribute to a wonderfully worthy project. This week, Caleb Armstrong of Non-Profit Construction received a check for $2,000 from Housing El Dorado toward construction costs for the replacement of a local veteran’s home after the Caldor Fire.
The retired Naval Intelligence veteran, who proudly served his country during the Vietnam War (name not included for privacy), lives in Grizzly Flat on property kept in his family for nearly a century. He lost everything in the Caldor Fire — the family legacy was reduced to ashen debris — and became homeless by no fault of his own.
This initiative is to provide assistance in building costs, labor and materials of the
first Title 25 (Title 25 reduces the burden on the property owner for compliance with regulations) home in the county. The home was designed by a local and accomplished architect Peter Wolfe contributing his time, knowledge and expertise to the community members in need of home rebuilding plans. This specific plan incorporates a 750-square-foot
Community Foundation. For more information on programming visit housingeldorado. org or email housingeldorado@ gmail.com.
News release
SACRAMENTO — The California Franchise Tax Board is warning taxpayers to protect themselves from persistent scams this tax season by reviewing FTB’s online scam avoidance tips and being especially guarded with tax, bank account, credit card and other personal information.
“Unfortunately, FTB and other California agencies constantly battle bad actors attempting to steal your money. This time of year, some may try scams by posing as tax agency representatives,” said State Controller and FTB Chair Malia M. Cohen. “If you ever doubt the authenticity of a text, email or phone call claiming to be from FTB, IRS or any other government agency, contact the agency directly to verify whether there’s an issue that requires your attention.”
Recently, FTB has received reports of a scam targeting taxpayers through text messages claiming to be from
Crime log Continued from A2
March
FTB. The texts include a link to a fraudulent version of certain FTB webpages designed to steal personal and banking information.
On its online Scams webpage, FTB offers a way to report suspected scams and provides tips on how to avoid them. FTB advises Californians not to reply to suspicious text messages, download attachments or click on links in texts or emails if they are unsure of their authenticity. Visit the FTB Text Messaging page to verify when FTB sends texts and what information is included.
Scammers often prey on taxpayers by impersonating IRS or FTB employees. They may attempt to scam taxpayers into sending money not owed or providing personal information that could be used to file fraudulent returns and steal refunds. If a taxpayer receives a letter from FTB or the IRS that appears suspicious, contact FTB at (800) 852-5711 or the IRS at (800) 8291040.
2:44
March
March
Courtesy photo
Caleb Armstrong, right, accepts a check from Craig Styles, treasurer of Housing El Dorado. The money will help Armstrong build a home for a local vet who lost everything in the Caldor Fire.
EXPLORE WILDERNESS
Youth backcountry camps open for 2025
News release
STATELINE, Nev. — The Tahoe Rim Trail announced registration for its 2025 Youth Backcountry Camps is now open, offering youth aged 12-17 an immersive four-day backcountry experience in the Tahoe Basin. These camps are designed to challenge participants, foster new friendships and deepen their connection to the natural world.
Program highlights
• Hands-on learning: Campers will engage in backcountry living skills, leave no trace principles, local ecology and geology, outdoor leadership and team-building activities.
• Personal growth: YBCC emphasizes working collaboratively, developing leadership abilities, making group decisions and cultivating self-reliance in a wilderness setting.
Awards Continued from A1
Office of Education,” said Leikauf.
“These deputies are more than law enforcement officers; they are mentors, educators and role models.”
Deputies Aaron Campara, Keith Dougherty, Jordan Duncan, Kyle Emmitt, Daniel Freeman, Patrick Rude and Adam Stockeland were recognized for their work as SROs.
Leikauf applauded the deputies’ proactive approach and said they have conducted 43 threat assessments this year alone, investigating potential acts of violence.
Two firefighters were recognized this year, one from the Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District and one from the El Dorado County Fire Protection District. The two districts are in the process of merging, according to Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Chief Matt Gallagher.
Capt. Andrew Lemos of EDFPD was first to be honored for “playing a key role as an instructor in live fire training, demonstrating a deep commitment and dedication,” said Gallagher.
“Lemos’ achievements in training and mentorship exemplify what it means to be a dedicated leader and a professional captain,” Gallagher continued. “He has directly influenced
Guilty
Continued from A1
January 2023 and was held without bail. Yusuf conducted his sales on the social media app Snapchat under the alias “Mr. Sneeze,” authorities shared.
In a February 2023 pretrial hearing, prosecutor Mike Perry shared phone recordings by Yusuf from jail that revealed he tried to have evidence deleted from his cell phone and instructed his mother and brother to destroy possible evidence.
In addition, Yusuf was accused of witness tampering in December
Projects Continued from A3
work that needed to be done in the Cameron Park and El Dorado Hills areas with regard to replacing and repairing the nearly 650 miles of the wastewater system with liners to the pipes that will, according to Wilson,
• Disconnect to reconnect: We don’t allow any technology on YBCC trips, allowing participants to immerse themselves in nature fully.
2025 camp sessions
• Ages 12-14 (in partnership with Tahoe Institute for Natural Science): June 20-23 and July 28-31
• Ages 14-17: July 11-14 and Aug. 4- 7
Accessible to all
TRTA is committed to making these transformative experiences available to all interested youth. The program operates on a sliding scale fee structure, allowing families to pay what they are able to. Additionally, full scholarships are available to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder participation.
Spots are filling quick. Interested participants can register by visiting tahoerimtrail.org/youth-backcountrycamps. For more information or
hundreds of inspiring firefighters through his instruction and mentorship.”
Next to be recognized was longtime El Dorado County resident and Diamond Springs firefighter Christian Balderson for consistently showing commitment to his job and the community, said Gallagher.
“Though young in age, Engineer Balderson has become a reliable, steadfast engineer and can be relied on in any situation,” said Gallagher. “He has represented the fire department on multiple public engagements and takes an active role in meetings of fire apparatus.”
The night was complemented by a barbecue dinner prepared by members of the Mother Lode Lions Club and a commemorative cake.
Lions Club International Foundation is a global service organization with around 45,000 clubs that aims to empower communities with humanitarian volunteer work.
Lion Tamer of the Mother Lode Lions Club, Roger Royal, thanked first responders and said it is a treat to host this event.
“We appreciate you every day, you put your life out there for us,” Royal said. “So thank you very much.”
2023 when prosecutors supplied evidence that Yusuf was coordinating with a former El Dorado County Jail cellmate Bobby Cody to contact Yusuf’s ex girlfriend, Kaitlyn Caraotta, and dissuade her from cooperating with investigators. Caraotta filed a restraining order against Yusuf in January 2023.
Full details of the charges to which Yusuf pleaded guilty were not available at press time. Yusuf will be sentenced on May 23.
last for another 50 years.
The board voted 5-0 in favor of approving the contracts and then moved to closed session.
The next meeting of the board is scheduled for April 7 at 9 a.m.
questions contact Michelle Witte, Youth Programs Manager at
michellew@tahoerimtrail.org or (775) 298-4493.
Fire Chief Matt Gallagher and Sheriff Jeff Leikauf cut the celebration cake together at the Mother Lode Lions Club annual recognition dinner on March 20.
Mountain Democrat photo by Chris Woodard
Courtesy photo
Youth gain confidence and learn to respect nature during the Tahoe Rim Trail outh Backcountry Camps.
OPINION
California Matters
CA cities and schools face big budget gaps, few options
California’s state budget is mired in what fiscal authorities call a “structural deficit,” meaning its revenues cannot keep up with spending mandated by current law.
For several years, Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature have papered over the chronic gap between income and outgo with gimmicks, including onand o -budget borrowing and creative accounting, plus dips into “rainy day” funds set aside for emergencies.
Those maneuvers merely postpone the day of reckoning, because the administration and the Legislature’s budget analyst, Gabe Petek, project yearly multibillion-dollar shortfalls indefinitely.
The state’s dilemma has several roots, most notably an erroneously high multi-year revenue forecast in 2022 that led to a belief that there would be an immense budget surplus and to sharply increased spending. The administration later pegged the revenue error at $165 billion over four years. That factor was exacerbated by what Petrek dubbed “a sluggish economy.”
“Outside of government and health care, the state has added no jobs in a year and a half,” Petek noted in a November fiscal overview. “Similarly, the number of Californians who are unemployed is 25% higher than during the strong labor markets of 2019 and 2022.”
State government is not alone in facing chronic budget deficits. The state’s major cities and many school districts are also feeling the pinch of stagnant revenues and inflation, especially with rising worker salaries. Add the horrendous Los Angeles wildfires and President Donald Trump’s potentially huge federal spending reductions and the budget gaps could become even wider.
Matt Szabo, the city of Los Angeles’ chief administrative o cer, and city Controller Kenneth Mejia bluntly warned the city council that L.A. is several hundred million dollars short of covering its budgeted expenditures — not even counting the likely e ects of wildfires on revenues and spending.
“The city is facing significant headwinds,” Szabo said, adding, “immediate spending reductions required.”
“The city of L.A., financially, we are in trouble,” Mejia told the council in a letter. He added, “The city is estimated to overspend by $300 million over budget. So when you have less revenues compared to your budget, and you have more expenses over your budget — that’s a big gap that we have to fill.”
San Francisco’s new mayor, Daniel Lurie, says he wants to “eliminate $1 billion in overspending” over the next three years to cover an $876 million deficit over two years. “The era of one-time or Band-Aid solutions is over,” Lurie told other o cials after
■ See WALTERS, page A9
Letters to the Editor
Lessons from the State of Je erson
EDITOR:
Trying to create a new state was a great civics lesson. I chose to create new law codes for the State of Je erson, and was directed to North Dakota as a good template. What a surprise. It turns out that whether you are a red state, blue state or the federal government, legislatures do not follow the separation of powers principles as laid out in our Constitution.
Two examples:
Administrative hearing o cers — These are Executive branch judges. In composing for Je erson, I had to shove them all over to the judicial branch.
Administrative law — Commonly called rules and regulations, these are Executive branch written laws. I had to shove the whole bunch back to the Legislative branch.
There is no need for Executive branch judges. The legislature can just as easily fund judicial branch judges, including specialty courts.
There is no need for Executive branch legislation. If the Executive branch thinks there should be more guidance on the meaning of a law, or how it should be enforced in gray areas, it can turn the matter over to the legislative branch for clarification.
Every legislature in the country is guilty of shoving too much power to the Executive branch. Laws are to be written by the legislature. Courts are the function of the judicial branch. Tell your legislature.
DAVID ZELINSKY
Solidarity with Ukraine
EDITOR:
On Feb. 28, President Zelenskyy of Ukraine travelled to Washington, D.C., to meet with Donald Trump and JD Vance. With cameras running in the Oval O ce, Trump and Vance verbally assaulted a democratically elected
The Rural Life
Making
do without a brain — and doing it so well
and sizes.
In the natural world, intelligence requires a brain, right? Who would deny that? Yet I’ve just learned there’s at least one organism that does refute this rule — spectacularly. It all started when I spotted a strange blob growing on the huge bark pile mounded in the center of our riding arena. (The pile is what’s left of the enormous gray pine that once menaced our house, as told in my 2012 column, “Friend or Foe.”)
When I first saw this blob, I was sure it was a fungus. Tan in color, it was about the size of a deflated basketball. Because I take our dog, Gia, into that arena to chase sticks every day, I figured this whatever-it-is must’ve grown up virtually overnight. And because I’d watched that terrific documentary “Fantastic Fungi,” I knew fungi grow fast and come in a shocking variety of shapes
So this had to be a fungus, right?
Wrong. A few scientific articles and photos and videos later (thank you, internet), I knew the weird growth on our bark pile was an organism I hadn’t known existed — a plasmodial slime mold. It’s not a fungus at all and, in fact, it’s less closely related to fungi, DNA-wise, than you and I are. Think about that.
And it’s actually not a mold, either.
Slime molds, first evolved 600 million years ago, are single-celled, gelatinous amoebae once thought, yes, to be fungi. Now, however, they’re classified in the kingdom Protista, a sort of catch-all group for organisms scientists are still scratching their heads over.
Only one cell, you ask? How does that work? Turns out this particular type of slime mold starts out as individual amoeboid cells, which then
join together to form a mass with only one cellular membrane containing multiple nuclei. This one-celled mass is the “plasmodium.”
The creeping, pulsating way the plasmodium spreads has inspired more than one spine-chilling story, including “The Blob,” a 1958 cult horror film starring a young Steve McQueen, and “The Last of Us,” HBO’s post-apocalyptic zombie drama (its opening-credit visuals depict the growth pattern of a slime mold).
As it slithers and grows, a slime mold is a fierce predator of bacteria, fungi and yeasts. According to TheConversation.com, when seeking food, the network of veins and tubes making up the body of a slime mold can move at a speed of up to 2 inches per hour. It behaves ”much like the infected in ‘The Last of Us,’ which operate as one large organism in search of prey.”
Only, thankfully, slime mold is harmless to humans, pets and plants — weird-looking, but harmless.
Early on in my research, I became convinced that “my” blob was of the species Physarum polycephalum, the
superstar of the slime mold family. Its weird and amazing form of what can only be considered intelligence enables it to make decisions, anticipate change, solve mazes, memorize routes and learn in general.
Before you say nuh-uh!, here are two of many documented examples of these feats.
In one experiment, researchers set up little bridges between a polycephalum and oatmeal flakes, a favored food. The creature bunched together to creep over the bridges to access the food.
Then the researchers coated a bridge with a bitter substance (ca eine or quinine) and the slime mold at first refused to cross. Soon, however, “it ‘tip-toed,’ extending a long thin tendril of itself across, then speedily moving the rest of its body over the bitter bridge,” reports the EarthFire Institute.
Later, as the creature learned the bitter substances weren’t actually harmful, it oozed faster and faster over the bridges, eventually moving as
Placerville
DAN WALTERS
JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER
president whose country (our ally) is three years into an unprovoked war.
I experienced myriad of emotions watching the political spectacle, but chief among them was shame. Coming from a family of Republicans and Democrats, I try very hard to remain objective and dispassionate about partisan arguments. The shameful display of baseless rancor and pettiness in that near-sacred space, however, was too much for me.
I was filled with a desire to publicly display my solidarity with the Ukrainian people. Knowing how many Ukrainian-Americans live in the Sacramento area, I hoped they would welcome knowing there
if the substances weren’t there at all.
are supporters among us. So that same afternoon, a few friends and I decided to paint one of the rocks on El Dorado Hills Boulevard with the Ukrainian flag. Just the Ukrainian flag.
None of us had previously painted those rocks that are a such a part of our community. We all felt a wonderful sense of solidarity in expressing our support for that wartorn ally in what we intended to be a tasteful rebuke of Zelenskyy’s handling by our president and vice president.
Painting the rock with the Ukrainian flag is our personal expression of solidarity with our
In another experiment, researchers placed oat flakes on flat surfaces in positions to match the locations of key urban areas of Tokyo and other major world cities.
At first the polycephalums covered the entire map area to get to the food. Within days, however, they had “thinned themselves away, leaving behind interconnected branches of slime that linked the pieces of food in almost exactly the same way that
NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD
Ukrainian-American neighbors. I am sure there are many more in our community who feel the same.
SUMMER YOUKER El Dorado Hills
Do
you have a plan?
EDITOR:
Isee Les Francis is taking the usual left-wing position that the proper course in Ukraine is to fight to the last Ukrainian. That is a satisfying emotional response when dealing with someone like Putin.
The problem with this position is that it annihilates the Ukrainian people. The simple fact is that
man-made roads and rail lines connect major hubs in Tokyo, Europe and Canada,” reports Nature magazine.
And all this, mind you, without a brain or even a central nervous system.
“Slime molds are redefining what you need in order to qualify as intelligent,” asserts Chris Reid of the University of Sydney in the Nature article.
All this was exhilarating, but then came a letdown. Remember how I first thought “my” blob
Russia, with the addition of as many North Korean troops as it takes, will destroy Ukraine in a long-term war of attrition down to the last man. The only way to win against Russia is to take and hold significant portions of Russian territory. Russia has made it clear it would use short range nukes before allowing that to happen. Also, we can’t afford to finance an endless war and what country would send their army into the endless meat grinder of Ukraine. So, Mr. Francis, you don’t like the way Trump is trying to end that war. What exactly is your plan?
GEORGE ALGER
Placerville
was a fungus, but it wasn’t? Well, further research plus observation at the bark pile told me I was also mistaken to think my blob was the smarty-pants polycephalum. Turns out it actually was of the humble Fuligo septica species, also known as (and this really hurt) “dog vomit slime mold.”
The humiliating name comes from the first visible stage of septica’s life cycle, where it appears as yellow globs that your dog might’ve retched up (or kind of like scrambled eggs, which is why it’s also known as “scrambled egg slime mold”). Then it changes into the tan blob I first noticed on our bark pile. Then it dries to a crusty brown and produces spores to start the cycle over.
Though septica isn’t the acclaimed performer that polycephalum is, it gained its own bit of notoriety in 1973 when a Dallas housewife tried to eradicate one with a garden hoe (no luck), then firefighters blasted it with water (which blew it apart but the pieces continued growing), then police came and shot it (and still it grew), then finally it went into spore-making mode and seemed to fade away.
A newspaper at the time speculated the woman had been visited by an alien.
She hadn’t — I mean, as far as we know at this point that’s not where slime molds come from — but she had experienced a close encounter with a remarkable life form, one which, with its cousins, causes us to marvel at the astonishing diversity of life on Earth.
I love how Susan Elrich, Ph.D., puts it. When we attend to nature, “We are brought out of ourselves and our personal concerns, into the larger world of life … opening new possibilities for seeing our or the world’s problems in a different light.”
And that’s always a good thing, even when the catalyst is an unlovely slime mold.
Jennifer Forsberg Meyer is a columnist with the Mountain Democrat and the author of “Friends With Four Legs.” Leave a comment for her online or, for a reply, reach her at jfmfeedback@gmail.com.
Announcements
AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com
AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net
AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org
CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS
CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.
El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net
PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452.
We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the
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
a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday
Forsberg races
Gary Thomas
Placerville Speedway
Ten-time Placerville Speedway champion Andy Forsberg held off a fast-closing Austin Wood to score his fourth Tribute to Al Hinds triumph on Saturday night.
With his win the Auburn veteran matched Justin Sanders for the most all-time Tribute to Al Hinds victories. It marked his 73rd career Winged 360 Sprint Car win on the red clay and came aboard the Pacific Highway Rentals No. 92 mount.
“I felt like I was cruising along out there and all of a sudden here comes this youngster Austin Wood,” Forsberg commented. “He’s like 14 and I’m definitely older than that, so it shows the wide gap of generations we have out here. It’s cool to win another Al Hinds race. Back in the day I would go up in the stands with Al when he was still around just to chat and we really miss that guy.”
Forsberg earned the pole in the feature by way of “Striking Gold” in his heat race, winning it from starting position No. 4. He had his way with things for much of the contest as drivers raced for position behind him.
With the main event winding down, Wood and Tanner Carrick began exchanging the runner up spot back and forth. Carrick provided some of the most excitement in the feature, while going four wheels above the cushion in turn three.
Wood was able to prevail in that dogfight and
record tying Tribute to Al Hinds win
began to reel in Forsberg as the white flag waved. Rounding the final corners, Wood slipped to his inside, but Forsberg was able to nip him at the line for the win.
Carrick, Chance Grasty and Max Mittry completed the top five. Rounding out the top 10 were Colby Copeland, Bubba Decaires, Steven Kent, Josh Young and Justyn Cox. A total of 30 Thompson’s Winged Sprints competed on opening night. Tanner Carrick began the evening by setting the ADCO Driveline Fast Time with a lap of 10.581.
Roseville’s Josh Young dominated the 25-lap Joe Hunt Magnetos Wingless Tour main event on March 22. It was sweet redemption for Young, who got upside down wildly in qualifying at the Hunt Tour opener in Stockton recently.
Placerville’s Shane Hopkins led the opening circuit, before the red flag waved as Jake Morgan got upside down battling for the leader entering turn three. After going back to green Young blasted into the lead and never looked back to snag the win.
Bryant Bell, Shane Hopkins, Brent Steck and Braidon Moniz rounded out the top five. Finishing 6th through 10th were Joshua Wooten, Eathon Lanfri, Paul Vandenberg, Jeff Scotto and Heath Holdsclaw.
Six-time and defending Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stock champion Nick Baldwin added yet another Placerville Speedway victory to his resume on Saturday. Rio Linda’s Ryan Peter led early, before Baldwin came charging for the lead on lap five.
The Oakley driver led the remainder to score his 33rd career Placerville triumph over Kevin Jinkerson, Tommy Sturgeon, Wayne Trimble and Tyler Lightfoot.
The Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks provided some late race drama with multi-time track titlist Mike Miller making a move with just a few laps left to tally another victory.
Paizlee Miller led the opening lap, until Howard Miller drove past to lead much of the race. M. Miller then found another gear and came forward as the laps wound down. Howard and Mike ran side by side in thrilling fashion during the final laps, which saw Mike prevail by less than a truck length. Noah LaPoint, Brycen Bragg and Michael Barreno ran third through fifth.
Placerville Speedway returns to action this coming Saturday, March 29, with the Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour and Nor-Cal Dwarf Cars.
The 2025 Dublin Distance Fiesta broke all records for attendance with 225 schools and 4,000-plus athletes participating.
Oak Ridge High School distance runners had an incredible day competing at the Dublin Distance Fiesta at Dublin High School on March 22. Many athletes obtained personal records and some were quite significant.
held by Amjed Aboukhadijeh set in 2007. Ben ran a tremendous race by battling with the front runners all the way through the finish line. The third-place finisher from Modesto High School ran 4:35.07. Freshman Lauren Tiedeman had a great day of racing in the 1,600 and 800. Lauren placed second in her 1,600 race with a personal record time of 5:16.62 (9 second PR) and placed 3rd in her 800 race with a time of 2:25.35. The top three finishers in each race received a Dublin Distance Fiesta T-Shirt. Lauren is the first Oak Ridge track and field athlete to receive two T-shirts at the Dublin Distance Fiesta.
Sophomore Avery Halterman started the competition for Oak Ridge with a personal record of 6:17.58 (3 second PR) in the 1,600 meters at 8 a.m. and junior Adriana Ingargiola ended the day of competition for the team racing in the 3,200 meters at 8:15 p.m. Adriana obtained a personal record of 10:53.43 (9 second PR) in the 3,200 meters, which met the qualifying standard for the prestigious Arcadia Invitational on April 11 & 12.
“This was Adriana’s strongest effort in track,” noted coach Rob Fairley. “Strategically, she ran a perfect race, running very even 400 meter splits and she worked her way up in the race to place 9th in the fastest 3,200 race of the meet. Adriana’s time is the 8th fastest girls’ 3,200 time at Oak Ridge.”
Freshmen Ben Gutierrez broke the freshman 1,600 meter record by 3 seconds, running a 4:35.14 (12 second PR). The previous record was
Junior Bailey Van Leemput raced fabulously in the 1,600 meters to win his race with a personal record of 4:33.86 (6 second PR). Junior Roman Zamora raced terrifically in his 1,600 meters race and placed 2nd with a time of 4:26.57 (9 second PR). Sophomore Owen Kraft set a 12-second personal record in the 1,600 running 5:10.73. Freshman Jack Clarke set a 12-second personal record in the 1,600 running 4:55.27. Freshman Braden Laxamana set a 15-second personal record in the 1,600 running a 4:52.82. Saturday, March 29, the Trojans head to the Whitney Wildcat Invitational at Whitney High School.
circle for the fourth time at Placerville Speedway’s Tribute to Al Hinds on March 22. Roseville’s Josh Young, above, made it to the checkered flag first at the Joe Hunt Magnetos Wingless Tour main event Saturday night.
Courtesy photo
Adriana Ingargiola races for Oak Ridge in the Dublin 3,200 Saturday night.
American Century Championship tickets on sale soon
News release
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — Tickets for the 36th annual American Century Championship, celebrity golf’s leading tournament with more than 80 sports and entertainment superstars, go on sale online, April 1.
Daily grounds tickets and weeklong grounds badges for the July 9-13 tournament will be available online beginning at midnight, April 1 at eventbrite.com. (Link becomes active on April 1 and tickets are only available online through the official American Century Championship channel.)
Tickets for Wednesday’s and Thursday’s Celebrity-Amateur play are $40 each day with tournament rounds Friday, Saturday and Sunday at $50 daily. A grounds badge for all five days — Wednesday through Sunday — is $150. The number of daily tickets is limited with Friday/Saturday sellouts typical, so fans are encouraged to act now to secure their spot among the stars. All ticket purchases will be online in advance; same day tickets will not be available at the gate. For active duty and retired veterans, a limited supply of complimentary tickets for one person plus a guest for either Wednesday or Thursday rounds is also available beginning April 1, two tickets maximum. Visit eventbrite.com/e/2025american-century-celebritygolf-tournament-at-edgewoodtahoe-tickets-1055210806929 for instructions.
The tournament will feature sports stars including Hall of Famers from the NFL, NBA and MLB, active and retired players, as well as Hollywood actors, comedians and entertainers. The three-day, 54-hole event includes a $750,000 purse, with $150,000 going to the winner, plus a charity component for local and national nonprofits.
South Shore’s most popular special event has received early player commitments from fan favorites Charles Barkley, Tony Romo, Travis and Jason Kelce, Colin Jost, Miles Teller, Ray Romano, Nate Bargatze, Larry the Cable Guy and Jack Wagner, who along with Jim McMahon are the only two players who’ve competed in every tournament.
Current NFL stars feature 2024 MVP Josh Allen, first timer George Kittle of the Forty Niners, Aaron Rodgers, Baker Mayfield, Davante Adams, Kyle Juszczyk, Adam Thielen, Trevor Lawrence, Derek Carr, Matt Ryan and New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel. Hall of Famers feature Jerry Rice, Steve Young, John Elway, Emmitt Smith, Marcus Allen,
A number of smaller cities, including Sacramento, are also dealing with significant deficits.
Meanwhile many school districts are also facing big budget gaps due to declining enrollment and chronic absenteeism that reduce state aid based on attendance, in addition to the expiration of federal grants meant to cope with COVID-19 and employee union demands for raises to offset inflation-hammered personal budgets.
The Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team, a state agency that monitors school district finances, recently issued a report on school systems in various degrees of fiscal difficulty, with those in Oakland and San Francisco on the list of the most troubled.
Charles Woodson, Tim Brown, Brian Urlacher, DeMarcus Ware and Dwight Freeney.
Defending champion and two-time winner Mardy Fish is back along with top players Annika Sorenstam, Joe Pavelski, the former Dallas Stars and San Jose Sharks star, MLB Hall of Famer John Smoltz, former Red Sox pitcher Derek Lowe and NBA Hall of Famer Ray Allen. Retired MLB superstars feature Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols, Hall of Famer Joe Maurer, Kevin Millar, Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley.
As the celebrity field expands, fans can follow American Century Championship’s social channels for announcements as well as a current list of participants online at americancenturychampionship.com.
The tournament’s format and setting perfectly complement the Tahoe vibe, with players and galleries enjoying beachfront and mountain views between the action. Boats line the stretch of the course along the par 3, 17th hole, bringing a celebratory summer atmosphere. Spectators directly along the green enjoy goodnatured bantering with the players as they shoot free throws at the temporary basketball hoop adjacent to the tee box and toss footballs and souvenirs to fans.
The 2025 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 rated by Golf Digest Magazine as one of America’s Top 100 Golf Courses.
American Century Investments, the title sponsor of the championship since 1999, continues its role in partnership with NBC Sports, the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority, Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course and the South Tahoe community. On-site events include Korbel’s Long Drive Competition on Thursday, July 10, at hole 16; the annual Korbel Holein-One contest on the 155-yard 17th hole, Friday, July 12; Mastercraft Boats offers a boat for an ace on No. 12, Friday through Sunday (Tim Brown, the former Raiders wide receiver, cruised home last year towing a $330,000 model); American Century Investments offers $1 million for an ace on No. 17 during the three competitive rounds split with the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, and Travis Mathew provides giveaways, interactive games and items for purchase.
Since its inception in 1990, the American Century Championship has donated more than $8 million to local and national nonprofits.
The agency cited not only enrollment declines, but the jolts of losing federal pandemic aid and rising costs, particularly for fire insurance and electric power, as factors. In theory, local officials could seek tax increases as they ponder ways to balance their budgets. However voters facing rising living costs of their own are not likely to approve of that solution.
Therefore the options are either make real spending reductions, which might mean laying off workers and closing schools, or emulate the state’s gimmickry and hope the problems solve themselves.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters. org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
COMICS
n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
n RUBES by Leigh Rubin
n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ll create the boundaries and routines that give you the foundation to thrive in your own unique way. Productivity will rise. Your time is coming. This is just the beginning.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Emotional labor sustains relationships, but when unevenly distributed, it becomes an unseen burden. Encourage everyone to contribute. It will prevent one person from carrying too much and fostering resentment.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). If you’re toiling away in a Cinderella situation, surrounded by the spoiled and ungrateful, your sweat and tears aren’t helping. Don’t wait for mice, birds or royalty to rescue you. Break free —the real fairy tale begins when you take the first step.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). Weakness becomes strength when it forces you to adapt in ways that others wouldn’t. When a limitation makes you more creative, more empathetic, or more resilient, it stops being a drawback and starts shaping something powerful within you.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Mystery is working in your favor today. There’s power in leaving things unsaid. Keep them curious by sharing just enough, but never everything. Let them lean in. People are drawn to what they can’t quite grasp.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You may not feel like you’re influencing much, but this is because you don’t know what’s in the hearts and minds of others and aren’t aware of how they see you. While others may be caught in the noise, your presence, which is stronger than ever, will quietly make a difference.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Boredom arises when something stands in the way of your curiosity. But once that restriction is lifted, the door will open to the knowledge or experience you’ve been yearning for. The answers you seek will be there waiting for you.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). There are teachers in the usual places when you need them, though today’s best education emerges from your situation. You’re paying attention to the way the world is working and that is a lesson in and of itself. Every encounter is an opportunity to learn.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). The chemical flood brought on by anger is a drug, though not all are addicted. The topic comes up today. You’ll witness various styles and welcome opportunities to understand people based on how they work through frustration, irritation or anger. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Rest is fuel, water is medicine, and taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury —it’s foundational.
SUDOKU
Walters
Comfortable and Compassionate Care
PARK-LIKE GROUNDS
Our 64-acre campus features beautifully landscaped, walkable and pet-friendly paths, along with inviting outdoor spaces for you to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
Experience maintenance-free living with the convenience of restaurant style dining, weekly housekeeping, 24-hour staff on-site and no yard work to worry about.
Our dedicated staff provides attentive, individualized care with around-the-clock staff, transportation and assistance with daily activities.
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
March 26
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host a Park Party at Oak Knoll Park from 5-7 p.m. Enjoy food, music, and family friendly activities and games at the park. Be sure to bring a picnic blanket. This is a free event. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
Buckeye Union School District hosts its 12th Heritage Festival, 5-7 p.m. at Valley View Charter Montessori in El Dorado Hills. More than a dozen booths will showcase di erent countries, sharing information about their culture. The event will also feature performing groups, including the Aloha Dancers, the Buckeye Union Mandarin Immersion program choir and students from the district doing dances to represent their home country.
Folsom Lake College Music Department presents a Student Showcase at 6 p.m. at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more details visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
March 27
Caregiver Support Group meets 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane in El Dorado Hills. This is a free caregiver support group to provide caregivers of people with dementia opportunities to share and engage with each other for resources, understanding and support. The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host a chamber mixer at Marco’s Café from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
Ponderosa High School Theater presents Beetlejuice Jr. the Musical” through April 5. For tickets and more information visit pondodrama.com.
Theatre at the Mine at Union Mine High School presents The Wizard of Oz” through April 5. For tickets and more information visit onthestage. tickets/union-mine-highschool.
Anthony Arya and Jonny Mojo Duo will perform, 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in Placerville. For more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Follow the Yellow Brick Road
To Theatre at the Mine’s ‘Wizard of Oz’
Andrew Vonderschmitt
Features editor
When creating live theater, especially of the musical variety, sometimes (most times) the days and weeks leading up to opening night are disorderly, to say the least. At the best of times it is well placed mayhem, other times it has been called organized chaos. One week out from opening night at Theatre at the Mine’s rehearsal of “The Wizard of Oz” at Union Mine High School a multitude of actors and techies, filled with the energy only a student cast can deliver, scurried this way and that seeking out a prop or lost costume piece. Shouts of “close the black curtains,” and “I can’t find my wings,” could be heard just above the din as follow-spots were adjusted and musicians warmed up. However, as the lights faded and the first note played the pandemonium seemed to melt into a superbly choreographed, terrifically designed and thoroughly rehearsed dramatic spectacle.
The stage musical, which premiered in 1987, was adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company from the 1939 MGM classic film of the same name with music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg.
The film was based on L. Frank Baum’s 1900 children’s classic, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”
The production at Union Mine is brimming with artistic possibilities and creativity. Junior, Skye Peacock, assistant director, has done five shows at The Mine and is no stranger to communicating artistic vision.
“I really like being able to create the vision,” she said adding that she prefers directing over acting for now. “I really like it, because I
get to be part of the artistic vision.”
Peacock plans to become a pediatrician after graduation but she won’t forget about the theater.
“I think I’m going to do it as a side hobby.”
Lighting Designer and senior, Devan Findley wears more than one hat in the theater department.
“I help out with sound, I help out in the booth, I helped build part of the set, I hang the lights, I help fix the sound,” he said listing his contributions to the show. “I do a lot here in the theater.”
Findley said that the show was the best way to end his high school theater career.
“I’m glad I’m ending on ‘Wizard of Oz,’ for sure,” he said. When he first heard that the department would be doing this show he wasn’t too sure. “When we started getting into it, it became, probably, one of my favorite shows I’ve done.”
Findley’s technical aptitude drew him to lighting design having acted in multiple shows previously.
“I have always been into tech,” he said, recalling a time when a fellow student was stumped on a particular
problem with the equipment.
“When I started helping him out, trying to figure out why this wasn’t working, I fell in love with it.”
He has since learned to love the artistic side as well.
“Being able to take words o of a page and make them light up is by far the best feeling,” Findley said.
After graduation, he plans to go into mechanical engineering at Californai State University, Sacramento while preparing to
The legacy of the ‘ Wonderful Wizard’
“The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” was the rst of 14 books that L. Frank Baum penned concerning events in the land of Oz. The rst was published in 1900. After four years of letters from adoring fans Baum acquiesced and wrote a sequel, “The Marvelous Land of Oz.” Later in 1907, 1908, and 1909 he wrote three more sequels. By 1910, in his fourth sequel, he wrote that further books would be impossible due to a disconnect between Ozland and the rest of the world. However, by 1913 he gave in again and wrote another sequel each year until his death in 1919. Another 26 books were written after Baum’s death between 1921 and 1963. Reilly & Lee, Baum’s publisher, continued to release yearly Oz books. They appointed
■ See LEGACY, page B2
Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
The intrepid travelers to Oz, left to right, The Scarecrow (Johnathan Hack), The Cowardly Lion (A.J. Armstrong), The Tin Man (Vova Wilenchik) and Dorathy Gale (Selah Monley) arrive in the Emerald City with a flourish.
■ See KNOW, page B6
■ See WIZARD, page B2
GROW FOR IT!
Container magic — some helpful how-to tips
Container gardening is a fun and easy way to beautify a yard or small garden space. Containers are perfect for most environments and people of all gardening levels. They are portable and offer endless possibilities.
The Master Gardeners of El Dorado County are offering a free public education course on Container Magic on Saturday, March 29, at The Club at Blackstone, 1461 Blackstone Parkway, El Dorado Hills. Registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Register here: ucanr. edu/containermagic-2025. There are many types of containers to consider — terra cotta, glazed clay and ceramic, plastic, fiberglass, wood and metal. Think about the proper pot for the plant’s size, the effect of the pot material on soil
and root temperature, the pot’s weight and portability and personal tastes. Say “yes” to a hole for proper drainage. Do not add rock/gravel at the bottom of the pot; this lessens root space and shifts the saturation zone up. Cover the hole with pottery shards or a piece of fine screen to allow drainage and soil retention.
Choosing the right soil impacts water retention and drainage, aeration, and nutrient uptake. Use commercial potting mix as is if you are new to container gardening. In choosing the right nursery stock consider the plant’s water and light requirements, bloom time, growth rate, mature size, fertilizer needs and cold hardiness. Look for healthy leaves with no pests or weeds. The plant should display buds rather than open flowers and light roots at the bottom drainage holes. Avoid roots circling the bottom of the pot. This is a sign that the plant might be root bound.
Wizard Continued from B1 become an El Dorado County Sheriff’s Deputy.
Sophomore, A.J. Armstrong said he has a real connection with the character he plays, the Cowardly Lion.
“The Cowardly Lion is a little awkward, and I’m definitely a little awkward sometimes,” he said, admitting that he auditioned for the lion specifically. “I was very happy to get the role.”
Armstrong doesn’t want to emulate Bert Lahr’s iconic performance from the movie but he intends to retain some of the character’s substance.
“I mean, there’s some parts of it that are very similar,” he said. “But, we’re trying not to copy the movie.”
Armstrong sings and plays ukulele and piano and plans to pursue music further after graduation.
“I want to make music,” he said.
Senior, Vova Wilenchik went for the role of the Tin Man and got it. She said it was a departure from her usual roles.
“I wanted the role of the Tin Man because normally, in high school theater I play a lot of really dramatic or really angry characters,” she said. “I wanted to have something a little different, something a little more mellow and a little more controlled.”
She said the role is very different from her own character, making the performance a bit of a challenge.
“He’s very reserved,” she shared. “He’s basically like the straight man of the group. But in real life, I would say I’m very out there. I’m very extroverted.”
Wilienchik plans to attend Sacramento State to pursue biology aiming at an ecology degree but retaining a relationship with the arts. She hopes to keep theater as a fall back.
“If science doesn’t work out, I really want to become an actor as a real job.” Junior, Jonathan Hack has done five shows in the department so far. He
Donna Marshall UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County
Remove the plant from the nursery container and gently separate roots and slightly loosen its soil. Fill the container with enough moist soil so that the top of the plant’s root ball is a couple of inches below the pot rim. Fill in with more soil so the plant’s crown and stems are no deeper in the soil than they were in their nursery container. Press soil gently or tap pot to settle and water. Water as needed and fertilize according to product directions. Check weekly for pests and diseases and take quick action to address problems.
went for the Tin Man originally.
“I thought it would be more fun,” he admitted. “But when I got the Scarecrow, I had so much fun with it. As soon as I was on stage and we were working the scenes, I had just so much fun moving around as him.”
The role of the Scarecrow is physically demanding which is nothing new to Hack.
“I’ve done a lot of stunts,” he said. “So I do a lot of choreography with the stunts, with our fight choreographer, Mr. Silver. So that helped me be comfortable with being physical with this role.”
Hack hopes to continue performing, both onstage and in film after graduation, possibly attending Folsom Lake College in preparation for advanced institutions like Juilliard.
Junior, Selah Monley, who plays Dorothy Gale actually auditioned for Scarecrow initially. She admitted that she wanted to be part of the show in any capacity.
“I was up for any role.”
However, Monley has played similar characters in her time in the theater department.
“Honestly, I’ve only been in three shows here, and each time I’ve been, I don’t want to say typecast, but I’ve been a naive little girl the whole time,” she said adding that the character is not much of a stretch for her. “It’s easy for Dorothy to come naturally to me.”
Monley hopes to continue doing theater after graduation.
“That would be so cool,” she admitted. “I’d like to be a part of more shows.”
Monley enjoys the process of theater going from a blank stage to the spectacle that audiences come to see.
“I can remember when there was like, no stage here and now there’s a huge set that I helped build and I want to be a part of that,” she shared.
Samantha McDaniel is a senior and plays Almira Gulch and the Wicked
Prune frequently by deadheading by removing faded flowers, pinching plant shoots to shape and/or clipping to remove more plant material to shape and form as the plant grows. You may need to move up to the next size pot every two to three years. Look for a plant that seems too large for its pot or is pot bound. Sunken soil levels, discolored leaves and frequent wilting are also signs that repotting is needed.
Container design 101 incorporates the concept of using a thriller, several fillers and spillers. A thriller is a plant that acts as a vertical accent or focal plant. The fillers are plants that add mass and the spillers are plants that cascade over the side of the container. Consider design elements such as color, texture, size and height when planting your container. Plant the larger thriller first in the center of the pot. Work your way out with the fillers and end with
Witch of the West.
the spillers. Fill in with potting soil, water and enjoy.
The Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open, weather permitting, on Fridays and Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon. First Saturday tour starts promptly at 9 a.m. Check the website for further information about activities at ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_ Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden.
Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. You can find a schedule at mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Calendar/ and recorded classes on many gardening topics here: mgeldorado.ucanr. edu/Public_Education/ Classes. Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the Ask a Master Gardener option on mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Ask_a_ Master_Gardener or leave a message at (530) 621-5512. For more information on the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
“She’s just such a cool character,” said McDaniel. “Because you have this magical creature who’s only after shoes, which I think is so interesting.”
McDaniel has tried to delve into the character more than what is on the surface.
“And just being able to put her into perspective, like, ‘Why is she so mad?’,” she asked. “Well, Dorothy did kill her sister. But chasing down a, what, 12-year-old, 11-year-old, and trying to kill them is a little over zealous.”
McDaniel admits that there are, in fact, some parallels between her character and her own personality.
“I’m a little dramatic myself, like her,” she said. “We’re both very loud people and very emotional, like emotionally driven.”
Another thing she shares with the character is emotional honesty.
“When we’re upset, you know, we’re upset,” she shared. “When we’re happy, you know, we’re happy.”
Playing such an iconic character has been a surreal experience for McDaniel.
“I realized that the witch is just this in depth character that everybody recognizes,” she shared.
There’s another reason that playing the witch has been fulfilling for McDaniel.
“My dad, when I told him I got this role, it was the one character he was afraid of in his childhood,” she said with a smirk. “And he thought that was very funny.”
McDaniel plans to pursue nursing after graduation while keeping acting as an avocation.
The entire cast, orchestra and tech crew are working hard to bring this larger than life show to the stage on opening night, Thursday, March 27 at 7 p.m. The show runs through April 5. For tickets visit onthestage.tickets/ union-mine-high-school.
new “Royal Historians” to document the latest happenings in Oz. These books; numbers 15-33 by author Ruth Plumly Thompson, 34-36 by illustrator John R. Neill, 37 and 38 by Baum scholar Jack Snow, 39 by Rachel R.C. Payes and 40 by Eloise Jarvis McGraw and Lauren Lynn McGraw, along with Baum’s original 14 novels, are considered the “Famous Forty” and are acknowledged as the canonical books of the series.There are countless other books, movies, TV shows, stage plays and writings based on the world created by Baum including the 1995 American novel by Gregory Maguire, “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,” which was the basis of the 2003 hit Broadway musical “Wicked” by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman.
What Baum dreamed up at the turn of the last century was enough to touch the hearts of so many that it endures in innumerable forms over 125 years later.
Synopsis
Dorothy, a farm girl, longs for adventure. A tornado whisks her and her dog, Toto, to Oz, where she accidentally kills a witch and is given her magic ruby slippers. Tasked by Glinda, the Good Witch, to see the Wizard, Dorothy journeys down the yellow brick road, joined by the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion. They face trials orchestrated by the Wicked Witch of the West, who wants the slippers. The Wizard proves a fraud, but Dorothy defeats the Wicked Witch. Glinda reveals the slippers’ power, and Dorothy returns home, realizing there’s no place like home.
Pixabay image
Add pops of color to your yard with a container garden.
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Principal earns prestigious award
Rescue Union School District News release
The Rescue Union School District recently announced that Michele Williamson has been named the Association of California School Administrators Region 2 Sam LaCara Administrator of the Year. This prestigious award recognizes Williamson’s exceptional leadership, dedication to student success and outstanding contributions to education.
“Michele is an extraordinary leader who truly embodies the values of collaboration, communication, and possesses an unwavering commitment to student learning,” said Superintendent Jim Shoemake. “Her ability to build authentic relationships, guide others with clarity and kindness, and continually push for excellence has made a lasting impact on our district and the entire educational community.”
families alike. “Michele is a role model for educators at every level,” Shoemake explained.
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The Mountain Democrat’s Newspapers in Education program (NIE) was established in 2002 to provide and educational service arm for the newspaper.
NIE’s goal is to assist schools, teachers and parents in developing future readers who can use the newspaper to enrich their own lives and participate responsibly in their community, state and nation.
Not only does the Mountain Democrat provide valuable information on a wide range of topics daily, it also can be used as a resource for teaching numerous skills to various age groups and in many different disciplines. It helps students connect classroom lessons to the real world around them and develop a positive and
relevant lifetime reading habit. A study released by the Newspaper Association of America Foundation shows data indicating students in NIE programs do 10 percent better on standardized tests and that significant increases in student performances occur, especially in middle schools.
Donations from our sponsors allow our educators to order the newspaper for their classrooms free of charge. These sponsorships contribute to literacy and allow thousands of teachers and students in El Dorado County to learn from a living textbook, the Mountain Democrat, and develop a life-long reading habit that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Please show these sponsors your support for the program by patronizing their businesses.
Williamson has served as the principal of Jackson Elementary School for 24 years, making her the most veteran administrator in the district. Under her leadership, Jackson Elementary has twice been named a California Distinguished School (2002 and 2014) and most recently earned the 2024 CA Honor Roll School designation by the Educational Results Partnership. Williamson also spearheaded the development of the region’s first all abilities playground, ensuring an inclusive space for all students.
Her outstanding communication skills set her apart, allowing her to connect meaningfully with sta , students and
“Her leadership goes beyond her school site she continuously challenges and supports her colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.”
Reflecting on this recognition, Williamson shared, “I am deeply honored to receive this award. It is a privilege to serve the students, sta , and families at Jackson Elementary. The success of our students is a testament to the incredible teamwork and dedication of our entire school community.”
Superintendent Shoemake emphasized what truly distinguishes Williamson as a leader. “Michele’s deep empathy and support for those she leads is what sets her apart. She understands the unique culture of Jackson Elementary, values its traditions and
fosters a collaborative, positive environment where teachers, sta and students thrive,” he shared. “Michele’s leadership is built on respect, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence, ensuring that every child receives the support they need to succeed. She not only promotes a strong sense of community but also maintains a laser focus on student well-being and academic success.”
“Without hesitation, we can say that Michele Williamson is one of the finest leaders we have ever worked with,” stated district leadership in their recommendation to ACSA. The Rescue Union School District congratulates Williamson on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her unwavering commitment to students, sta and the entire educational community.
Healthy El Dorado Expo brings health and wellness leaders to Oak Ridge
News release
On Saturday, April 5, community members, health experts and wellness advocates will gather at Oak Ridge High School for the first-ever Healthy El Dorado Expo — a groundbreaking event focused on empowering individuals and families with real solutions for better health.
Thanks to Marshall Medical, which has stepped up as a major sponsor, general admission and a healthy lunch are completely free for attendees using code MARSHALL100 at registration.
The event will feature an incredible lineup of speakers, including:
• Eldra Jackson, transformational leader from InsideCircle
• Dr. Nicole Shorrock & Dr. Katie Long, founders of Ollie Health
• Del Bigtree, CEO of Make America Healthy Again
• Ben Hanson, founder of 24 Carrot Farm
• James Maskell, founder of Evolution of Medicine and Healthy El Dorado Expo
“This event is about more than just learning about health; it’s about coming together as a community to build a healthier future said James Maskell, one of the event organizers. “This county is blessed with experts who are leading the way in regenerative agriculture, functional medicine and community wellness.”
What to expect
• Morning pre-event, 8-9 a.m.: Fitness Anywhere hosted by Rubicon Fit (CrossFit A liate)
Vagus Nerve Workshop — Learn nervous system regulation techniques from Hannah Zackney, LMFT
• Main event, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Two tracks: Main Stage (adults & teens 13+) — Keynote speakers & expert panels
Kids Track (ages 2-12) — Movement, art and adventure with local education partners
• Lunch, 1-2 p.m.: Enjoy a healthy school lunch reimagined
• Afternoon workshops, 2-4 p.m.: Choose from more than 20 workshops for deep learning with the whole family
Why attend?
• Learn from top experts in holistic and functional medicine
• Discover local wellness businesses and community resources
• Connect with like-minded families, health professionals and advocates
• Experience a reimagined school lunch program
• Take part in hands-on workshops and activities for all ages This is a one-day-only opportunity to take control of your health, learn from experts and build a communitydriven movement for wellness in El Dorado County.
How to register: Use promo code MARSHALL100 online at healthyeldorado.com.
Stay up to date with news, columns, photos, videos, and more with a subscription to the Mountain Democrat website: mtdemocrat.com. Call (530) 622-1255.
Courtesy photo
Michele Williamson, principal of Jackson Elementary, Rescue Union School District has been named the Association of California School Administrators Region 2 Sam LaCara Administrator of the Year.
‘Luck be a Lady’ at Sutter Street Theatre
Allen Schmeltz News release
FOLSOM — Sutter Street Theatre presents the 1950s classic musical, “Guys and Dolls” opening March 28 at 7:30 p.m. and running through April 27. Set in Damon Runyon’s mythical New York City, “Guys and Dolls” is an oddball romantic comedy. Notorious gambler, Nathan Detroit, tries to find the cash to set up the biggest craps game in town while the authorities breathe down his neck. Meanwhile, his girlfriend and nightclub performer, Adelaide, laments that they’ve been engaged for 14 years. Nathan turns to fellow gambler, Sky Masterson, for the dough, and Sky ends up chasing the straight-laced missionary, Sarah Brown, as a result. “Guys and Dolls” takes the audience from the heart of Times Square to the cafés of Havana, and even into the sewers of New York and eventually finding everyone involved right where they belong.
For more information call (916) 3531001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
Community Action Council seeks new members
Health & Human Services Agency of El Dorado County News
The El Dorado County Community Action Council is seeking to fill two member vacancies with individuals who can represent the interests and concerns of people and families with low incomes living in El Dorado County, with a special focus on housing, nutrition and low-income program needs. The deadline to submit a member application is April 22.
“We’re looking for people who are committed to actively participating in the council meetings and advancing the goals of the council on behalf of low-income people,” said Rebecca Johnson, program coordinator with the El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency.
“Representatives of community agencies that serve El Dorado County’s low-income residents and individuals representing the low-income community are encouraged to apply.”
The council acts in an advisory capacity to the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors and the El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency about community and human service needs for low-income residents of the county. The council provides for the collaboration of local government, private organizations and citizens serving the most vulnerable populations. Council member positions are voluntary and unpaid. Meetings take place in Placerville and are held monthly for nine months out of the year.
For more information about the council and to receive a member application contact Johnson at (530) 621-6255 or send an email to rebecca. johnson@edcgov.us.
Catch Match Madness
Tand major bragging rights. Match Madness is being generously sponsored by the Peek Family Fund at the El Dorado Community Foundation. Visit eldoradocf. org/match-madnessparticipating-funds to learn more.
Photo by Allen Schmeltz
Benny Southstreet (Joaquin Calderon) has something to say to Nathan Detroit (Eric Hurst) and Adelaide (Corrie Murgula) in “Guys and Dolls.”
Mimi Escabar Special sections editor
The Fair Play area wineries are celebrating the 24th anniversary of the Fair Play American Viticultural Area on March 29 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. All participating wineries will be pouring complimentary tastings to toast the occasion.
The Fair Play AVA was designated due to the unique properties in south El Dorado County. An AVA is a unique grape-growing region with specific geographic or climatic features that distinguish it from the surrounding regions and affect how grapes are grown. An AVA designation on a wine label allows vintners to describe more accurately the origin of their wines to consumers and helps consumers identify wines they may purchase. AVAs are regulated by the government.
The boundaries of the Fair Play AVA include rolling hills at elevations between 2,000 feet and 3,000 feet above sea level, making it the California appellation with the highest average elevation. The most popular wine grape variety is zinfandel, although varieties native to southern France and Italy are also cultivated.
To join the celebration go to fairplaywine.com/anniversary-2025 to get a free ticket for an afternoon of tastings and unique experiences at each of the high-elevation wineries.
Visitors will discover the area’s renowned small-batch beautifully crafted wines and the welcoming spirit at each stop in this scenic region of El Dorado County. Stroll through picturesque vineyards, meet the talented winemakers behind each bottle and enjoy a wonderful afternoon.
Just choose a starting winery and visit the rest at your leisure.
Note Cedarville Vineyard requires reservations both to start and to visit later in the day.
Guests can order up to four tickets in exchange for an email address.
Participating wineries
• Bumgarner Winery, 7380 Vineyard View Drive, Fair Play
• Busby Cellars, 6375 Grizzly Flat Road, Somerset
• Cantiga Wineworks, 5980 Meyers Lane, Somerset
• Chaney Family Winery, 8175 Fairplay Road, Fair Play
• Cedarville Vineyard, 6320 Marestail Road, Fair Play, call (530) 620-9463 6320 to make a reservation
• Chateau d’ Estienne, 2700 Omo Ranch Road, Fair Play
• Cielo Sulla Terra, 8061 Perry Creek Road, Fair Play
• E16 Winery, 8085 Perry Creek Road, Fair Play
• Element 79 Vineyards, 7350 Fairplay Road, Fair Play
• Golden Leaves Vineyard, 3625 Omo Ranch Road, Fair Play
Join the Women’s Fund El Dorado for its 2025 Ballot Showcase. Guests can meet each highlighted nonprofit. Registration is requested, visit tinyurl.com/3ye5u84a.
Now Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom presents Art Movement in
Fiber — a juried exhibition of quilts by the members of SAQA Northern California and Northern Nevada Region — through March 27. For more information
(A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 02/12/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS
CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26 14294 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME
• Gwinllan Estate, 7060 Fairplay Road, Fair Play
• MV Winery, 7261 Fairplay Road, Fair Play
• Medeiros Family Wines, 7480 Fairplay Road, Fair Play
• Mellowood Vineyard, 2979 Mellowood Drive, Fair Play
• Mirador Winery, 2501 Omo Ranch Road, Fair Play
• Oakstone Winery, 6470 Irish Acres Road, Fair Play
call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us.
The Stage at Burke Junction presents “Lobby Hero” through March 30. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke. com.
Miraflores Winery in Placerville, hosts Soup Sunday through March 30. Receive a complimentary cup of soup when coming to wine taste from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. or while supplies last. Call (530) 647-8505 for a tasting reservation or email info@mirafloreswinery.com.
Sierra Wildlife Rescue hosts classes through April 6 at 777 Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs. For more information visit sierrawildliferescue.org or call (530) 621-2650.
• Sentivo Vineyards, 7460 Fairplay Road, Fair Play
• Shadow Ranch Vineyard, 7050 Fairplay Road, Fair Play
• Toogood Estate Winery, 7280 Fairplay Road, Fair Play
• Windwalker Vineyards, 7360 Perry Creek Road, Fair Play
Play, hosts Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sundays through April 6. Enjoy delicious grilled cheese sandwiches with a side of red pepper and tomato soup. For reservations call (530) 620-2785.
TooGood Winery in Fairplay will host Bottle Your Own Wine events 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends through March 30. Visit toogoodwinery.com for information.
California Museum in Sacramento presents Our War Too: Women in Service through May 4. For more details visit californiamuseum.org.
Tickets are on sale now for the Green and Gray Gathering in support of the Ponderosa High School Foundation. Visit pondofoundation.com for details.
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Collidoscope – De La Torre Brothers Retrospective through May 4; Frames of Mind – The Ramer Photography Collection through May 4; Black & Gold –Traditional and Contemporary Japanese and Chinese Ceramics through Dec. 31, 2025; and Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030. For more information visit crockerart.org. Register now for the first Ron Mansfield Memorial Scholarship Bowling Tournament on March 22 at Knotty Pine Lanes in Pollock Pines. Help raise funds for local students seeking education in agriculture. The event will include local wines and auctioning great prizes. For more information visit tinyurl. com/5n7antj4.
The unique Fair Play American Viticulture Area is distinquishable from surrounding regions.
“I’ve noticed some changes, and care about your well-being...”
Tips for Talking With Your Loved Ones About Assisted Living.
We all want the best for our aging parents. When we start to notice changes in their daily routines, like di culty with household tasks, missing meals, or isolation, it may be time to start talking about Assisted Living. By approaching the topic with compassion and openness, you can help ease the transition and make it a collaborate, positive experience for everyone.
The following tips can guide conversations with family members to help determine whether Assisted Living might offer the supportive environment needed for a safer, more comfortable lifestyle.
Choose the Right Moment: Find a calm, quiet time when everyone is relaxed and free from distractions.
Express at You Care: Start by a rming your love and concern. Emphasize that your goal is to ensure their comfort, safety, and happiness.
Be Honest and Empathetic: Share your observations gently, focusing on the bene ts of additional support rather than on any limitation.
Listen Actively: Encourage them to share their feelings and concerns. Validate emotions and be patient with their responses.
Provide Information: Share details about the community, such as the quality of care, activities available, and testimonials from others, if available. O er to tour a facility together to see rsthand what’s available.
Reassure eir Independence: Let them know that Assisted Living is designed to support their independence rather than take it away.
Take it Step-by-Step: Frame the conversation as the beginning of an ongoing discussion, rather than a nal decision. is allows time for adjustment and further exploration together.
Ponté Palmero is here to help your family through the process.
