The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 8 executed a settlement agreement to end the decade-long case of Thomas and Helen Austin v. El Dorado County, which challenged the county’s compliance with the procedural requirements of California’s Mitigation Fee Act.
“Despite being provided proof that all fees were being utilized for the purposes for which they were collected — mitigating the impacts of tra c from new development — the court ordered the county to refund Tra c Impact Fees that were collected over an approximately 22-month period in 2015-16,” a statement released by the county notes. In 2015 El Dorado Hills residents Thomas and Helen Austin sued El
Wrongful conviction sets DA on new path
Noel Stack Editor
El Dorado County has settled with Ricky Leo Davis, the man wrongfully convicted of a brutal murder in El Dorado Hills 40 years ago. It’s a multimillion-dollar lesson EDC District Attorney Vern Pierson doesn’t want any other law enforcement agency, city or county to learn the hard way.
“The Ricky Davis case, with its $4.5 million price tag, exposed the catastrophic consequences of flawed interrogation tactics,” Pierson said. “The financial burden on taxpayers, combined with the profound human cost, demands reform.”
The settlement includes Davis receiving $3 million from El Dorado County, $500,000 in state compensation and nearly $1 million in incarceration expenses.
In 2016 The Innocence Project challenged the 2005 conviction of Davis, who was sent to prison for life in the 1985 slaying of Jane Anker Hylton.
PLACE ADDRESS LABEL
The victim was stabbed more than 30 times at a Stanford Lane home where she and her daughter were staying following a fight with her husband. Davis’ conviction was largely hinged on what was later determined to be a false confession by his former girlfriend Connie Dahl.
DNA located on a shoulder of the gown near where a bite mark also emerged on the 54-year-old victim’s body was tested by the Sacramento Crime Lab, which made its findings known in 2014. The deposit was from a male but did not match Davis or Archie Hylton, the victim’s husband.
Legal maneuvers and a new trial for Davis followed but in February 2020 El Dorado County Superior Court Judge Kenneth Melikian declared Davis factually innocent and vacated his conviction in response to a motion filed by the EDC District Attorney’s O ce to dismiss all charges against Davis, who had served 15 years in state prison.
In August 2020 Davis filed an $18 million claim against the county, alleging EDSO o cers caused his wrongful conviction and imprisonment . These investigators in the late 1990s and early
Dorado County, the El Dorado Hills Community Services District and the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, arguing the agencies violated the California Mitigation Fee Act and shouldn’t have collected certain permit fees paid by home builders in those jurisdictions. The act requires agencies to prepare and approve updated nexus studies every five years that justify fees collected and outline how money will be spent to benefit
the public and o set impacts resulting from new development; however, the agencies named in the lawsuit had failed to submit their nexus studies as required at the time the Austins and many others paid fees. The courts ruled in the Austins’ favor and a series of legal maneuvers followed. In November 2019 a state Court of Appeals denied El Dorado
CLASSY & FLASHY
This year’s Niello Concours at Serrano paid tribute to the golden era of racing and Aston Martin. The Oct. 5 show on the green at the Serrano Visitors Center in El Dorado Hills brought out more than 200 of beautiful cars and even more car enthusiasts. Above, An impressive row of Ferraris catches guests’ attention.
From left: Mike Thomas’ 458 Spider, John Grigsby’s 360, Sean Wallentine’s 360 Modena, David Thompson’s California T and Cody Smith’s 458 Italia. Right, spectators snap photos as several race cars slowly parade by. A Koenigsegg Jesko Attack moves along on the left, while Jeffrey O’Neill’s 2016 Ford GT Le Mans sits parked at the front right.
by Laurie Edwards
Photos
ESSENTIALS
Jack Williams Hartman
April 13, 1961 – Sept. 22, 2025
Jack Williams Hartman, 64, of Pollock Pines, California went to be with his Lord and Savior on September 22, 2025, in Yosemite National Park. Jack was born April 13, 1961, in Purmerend, Netherlands to parents John Rudy Hartman and Mary (Hopman) Hartman.
In March 1962, he and his parents immigrated to the United States. He grew up in Southern California and was the oldest of five children. He graduated from Rancho Alamitos High School and moved to El Dorado County in 1979. Jack married his high school sweetheart Denise Whitzel, on March 7, 1980, in Cameron Park, California. He began a career in the U.S. Forest Service, working on the Eldorado Hotshots, Big Hill Helitack, and Pacific House engine crews. Jack pursued the challenge of firefighting and loved working in the wilderness.
Jack pivoted to the construction industry in 1987 as a foreman for a general contractor. In 1989, he obtained his license and launched his own business, Hartman Construction. Over the next 36 years, he framed hundreds of homes and built custom homes, room additions, and remodels throughout El Dorado County. Jack was a talented carpenter who could manage the stressful aspects of a project with a great sense of humor. He loved employing his kids and teaching his sons the trade.
Throughout his life, Jack enjoyed sailing, backpacking, hunting, fishing, camping and chainsaw carving. He gave his heart to the Lord at the age of 16 and strived to follow Him the rest of his life. His greatest joy was spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Jack is survived by his wife, Denise of 45 years; his five children, Lindsey (Brian) Carlton of Shingle Springs, CA, Josiah Hartman of Pollock Pines, CA, Jesse (Cori) Hartman of Brentwood, CA, Levi (Brittney) Hartman of Auburn, CA, and Jenny (Gavin) Riddle of Shingle Springs, CA; seven grandchildren, Paisley, Emma, Maverick, Savannah, Lyla, Mikaela and Carter; his mother Mary (Hopman) Hartman of Placerville, CA; sisters Janette Thomas of Manassas, VA, Brenda (Clay) Higgins of Placerville, CA, Diane Behrbaum of Ripon, CA, and brother Johnny (Mari) Hartman of Dixon, CA.
Jack is preceded in death by his father, John Rudy Hartman.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Calvary Chapel Placerville. Cards of remembrance and condolence can be mailed to: Denise Hartman, PO Box 609, Pollock Pines, CA 95726.
Zoe Ann Reed
July 31, 1935 – Oct. 11, 2025
Zoe Ann Reed (Morgan), age 90, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, in Elk Grove, California with her husband Gaylon by her side. Born on July 31, 1935, in Merced, California, Zoe spent her formative years in Placerville, where her parents, Albert and Genevieve Morgan, raised their family on a cherished 60-acre property off Big Cut and Quarry Road.
A spirited student and cheerleader at El Dorado High School in Placerville a graduate of 1953, Zoe carried her enthusiasm for life into every chapter that followed. After graduating, she began her professional journey at McClellan Air Force Base. It was there that she met the love of her life, Gaylon Dean Reed. Their meeting marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with shared adventures and enduring devotion.
Zoe soon transitioned from her role at the base to serve her local community as an aide, lunch lady, and ski tip lady at the elementary and junior high schools. Her warmth and dedication left a lasting impression on countless students over the years. Later in life, she worked at the Athletic Club off North Shingle Road while Gaylon was her driver to work and embraced retirement through his passion for tennis. Never one to sit still for long, Zoe chose to complete her work career doing a daily drive from El Dorado Hills to Sierra Ski Ranch to sell tickets — a role that combined her love of people with her charismatic energy.
Family was always at the heart of Zoe’s world. She delighted in sharing stories to everyone around her about her upbringing and took great pride in being a mother to five children: Debra, Julie, April, Scott, and Sean Brodie. Her conversations often focused, as she would put it, on her “wonderful” children.
In retirement, Zoe found joy in simple pleasures — crossword puzzles and math puzzles while she and Gaylon explored California with their trailer. From the coastal beauty of Avila Beach to the tranquil waters of Delta Shores Resort and the forested charm of Harmony Ridge in Grass Valley, they made memories across the state together. Zoe’s legacy is one of resilience, warmth, and connection to people. She touched many lives through her work in schools and beyond. Her stories will live on through those who knew her best. A memorial service was held in Fair Oaks, California. May Zoe Ann Reed’s memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to share in her remarkable journey. A Funeral was held on October 11, 2025, from 01:30 PM to 02:00 PM at Mount Vernon Memorial Park 8201 Greenback Ln., Fair Oaks, CA 95628.
Janelle Marie Pillow
April 25, 1956 – Aug. 18, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Janelle Marie Pillow on August 18, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on April 25, 1956, in Placerville, California.
Janelle is survived by her sons, Kyle, Kory, and Kolby; her mother, Charlotte Pillow; and her siblings, Annette (John) and Dean (Sherry). Janelle was a devoted grandmother to Christian, Kylie, Conner, and Kiera, cherishing every moment spent with them, especially at ball games and a variety of outdoor activities. One particularly joyful memory was celebrating her twins, Kyle and Kory, on their third birthday and watching their faces light up as they sat together inside a fire engine.
Known for her free spirit, Janelle approached life with courage and curiosity. From riding her pony and sledding down hills to go-cart adventures and childhood mischief, she was always the first to dive into fun. Even as a toddler, she was on the move, often slipping out of her stroller to explore the world around her. Her cousin Denise was her faithful partner in many of these adventures.
Janelle’s radiant smile and laughter were contagious and brightened every gathering. Her beauty and charm once caught the attention of Tom Jones at a concert, where she was invited backstage. She even enjoyed a touch of Hollywood magic as a contestant on The Price Is Right, where she won a grand prize that included a mink coat and a trip to Switzerland.
Janelle’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and selflessness. She never hesitated to share what she had with others and lived with an open heart. In her final act of giving, Janelle donated her body to the UC Davis School of Medicine to support Parkinson’s research, continuing her spirit of compassion and contribution even beyond her lifetime. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her endless energy, kind heart and beautiful smile.
Charlene Jo Geyer
Jan. 1943 – Aug. 2025
Jo Geyer, 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family.
Jo is survived by her devoted husband for 63 years, Conrad “Butch” Geyer, and their three daughters: Kathi Coppedge, Kim Aros, and Shelli Hughlett. She was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, and her cute dog; Cloe, all of whom brought her immense joy.
Jo dedicated 36 years of her life as an Administrative Assistant with the El Dorado Union High School District, where she was known for her steady presence, work ethic, and warm spirit. Outside of work, Jo cherished time spent vacationing on the Oregon Coast, where the ocean brought her peace. She found joy in quiet moments — crocheting beautiful pieces by hand, losing herself in a good book, and most of all, being with her family. Her love was constant, her laughter contagious, and her witty sense of humor was unforgettable.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jo’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Group of Sacramento, a cause close to their hearts.
Her life was a gift to all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.
Hwa Cha Choe Crouch
Oct. 22, 1954 – Sept. 20, 2025
Hwa Cha Choe Crouch, 70 years old, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, after nearly a year of battling leukemia.
Choe was born in South Korea, where she met her husband, Richard, while he was serving in the U.S. Air Force. Choe has been a resident of Placerville for more than 40 years. Choe was an avid gardener. She enjoyed hosting friends at her home and feeding them the Korean food she loved to cook.
Choe is survived by her two daughters, Monica and Pamela, their husbands, Julius and Kevin, and her granddaughters, Autumn, Camila, and JoJo. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that anyone wishing to honor Choe make a donation to Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) or donate blood at your nearest blood bank.
Robert “Bob” Lee Allen
Oct. 22, 1933 – Sept. 30, 2025
Robert “Bob” was a loving father and husband, leaving behind his loving wife, Yaotim Maria Allen, and his four children; Robert C Allen, Theresa Allen Caulboy, Monica Baker, Donna Roth, several grandchildren, great grandchildren and a great-great grandson. His was a life of service and humility, and he was willing to help anyone who needed it. He was very gregarious and loved to chat with everyone and anyone. He was a solid friend to those who knew him and will be missed by all. He suffered with hearing loss for the last 40 years and other illnesses for the last 15 years of his life, yet he never complained and worked tirelessly in the yard and around the house every day. His greatest love after his family was his military service and especially the Navy Seabees. His funeral Mass will be on October 17 at 12 noon at St. Patrick Church, Placerville, Ca.
Powerline undergrounding continues
Paul Moreno PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company has now constructed and energized 1,000 miles of powerlines underground in high fire risk areas. PG&E has identified its undergrounding effort as the largest ever by a utility to reduce wildfire risk. In the locations where those lines provide electricity to customers, undergrounding eliminates nearly all wildfire risk.
In total, PG&E’s system hardening efforts, which includes undergrounding, stronger overhead poles and wires and line removals, have permanently removed 8.4% of wildfire ignition risk from our entire system since 2023.
How far is 1,000 miles? If you drove from the Oregon-California border down to the CaliforniaMexico border, you would travel 932 miles.
“Putting 1,000 miles of powerlines underground is a significant milestone for our customers as we work to reduce wildfire risk every day,” said Peter Kenny, PG&E’s senior vice president of Electric Operations. “When our CEO, Patti Poppe, announced in 2021 that we would put thousands of miles of powerlines underground, skeptics said it couldn’t be done. Well, not only are we at 1,000 miles and counting, but we also have substantially reduced the cost for our customers as we’ve scaled up our work.”
Underground powerlines are now serving customers in high fire-risk areas of 27 counties in Northern and Central California, with 26 miles undergrounded in Amador County, 29 miles in Calaveras County, 85 miles El Dorado County, 52 miles in Placer County, and 70 miles in Solano County.
By the end of 2026, PG&E anticipates a total of 1,600 miles of powerlines will be underground, contributing to a total risk reduction of 18% across the entire system.
Since the start of the program, the cost per mile of undergrounding has decreased from $4 million to $3.1 million in 2025. Further reductions are expected in coming years.
Undergrounding cost savings have been achieved through multiple innovations and ideas.
• Reducing cost and travel time and supporting local economies by hiring hometown contractors.
• Working more efficiently with state-of-the-art construction equipment, including chain trenchers, rock-wheel saws and slinger trucks.
• Avoiding the year-after-year tree trimming required by overhead line maintenance.
• Saving time, money and additional dirt removal by reducing the standard depth and width of trenches.
• Cutting disposal costs by using excess soil from undergrounding projects for other operational projects.
With increasing fire risk across the western United States, it is critical to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. PG&E is taking both immediate and longterm actions to keep communities safe, while also focusing on reduced costs and increased reliability. PG&E uses multiple layers of protection that work together to prevent wildfires. These have significantly reduced wildfire risk. These safety measures prevented major fires from our equipment in 2023 and 2024 and have greatly reduced wildfire risk since 2018.
Over the past seven years, PG&E has:
• Developed a state-wide network of nearly 1,600 weather stations and more than 650 HD cameras to respond to wildfire risk in real time
• Inspected, trimmed or removed over 960,000 trees and other types of vegetation across the service area
• Completed more than 1,000 miles of undergrounding
• Installed more than 1,400 miles of strengthened power poles and covered powerlines
Matt Pender, PG&E’s vice president of
information was taken from PPD reports:
Drive.
Sept. 9
1:18 p.m. Officers cited a person following a verbal disturbance at the bus station on Mosquito Road.
5:33 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Broadway.
9:44 p.m. Officers made an arrest after responding to a suspicious circumstances
Sept.
Sept.
Sept.
CRIME LOG
provided by the El Dorado Beekeepers. Visitors could sample honey gathered from a bee hive in the Sherwood Demonstration Garden and taste over a dozen varieties of locally grown tomatoes. Arts and crafts were available for the children thanks to the El Dorado 4-H Shingle Springs Club. Above left, Aleicia Garibay, 12 of Placerville, left, demonstrates how to make pipe cleaner flowers to children at the El Dorado 4-H Shingle Springs Club booth. Back to front, Eli Amador, 8, Ava Wilson, 9 and Ellis Wilson, 6 all of Pilot Hill. Above right, Eagle Scout Aiden Mascadri, 18, of Shingle Springs talks about the material he used to fill the Bug Hotel he built to attract beneficial insects. The structure contains bamboo for housing mason bees, hydrangeas, manzanita leaves, pampas grass, magnolia leaves, bark, bricks and rocks and a box with slits which he says has already attracted a praying mantis. Mascadri is the grandson of the late Bob Sherwood, longtime Master Gardener and founder of the Demonstration Garden.
modifying a bin purchased at a local hardware
has two sections divided by a screen which allows the worms to migrate over to the other section.
With age, the cells of the gingiva (gums) neither replenish themselves as rapidly as they once did nor keratinize as well. “Keratinization” is the process that changes the outer (epithelial) layer of the gums to make them impermeable to water-soluble substances. As a result, the gums are less able to resist bacteria and mechanical irritants as well as to repair themselves. As a consequence, the gums may recede, which makes the tooth appear longer. However, it is important to note that age-related gum recession is relatively modest. Most of the gum recession that we experience as adults is due to periodontal disease and overzealous brushing. Thus, with proper dental care and guidance, middle-aged adults needn’t look “long in the tooth.”
There are several ways to treat your diminishing gums. First and
foremost is to take care of your mouth. If you have gum disease, get it taken care of. Get your teeth cleaned and do the maintenance with meticulous home care. We are dedicated to the health of our patients, and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. We offer comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry. Please call us to schedule an appointment. Oral health is a longterm commitment we share with each patient. We offer “Tooth Print,” which is an impression of a child’s full mouth. About the size of a small wafer, the impression is given to the parent/guardian for the family album or for ID for a missing child. P.S. Along with creating the “long in the tooth” look, gum recession also leads to unsightly yellow root exposure, which may require treatment by gum grafting.
Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene Left, members of the El Dorado Beekeepers don multifaceted bee goggles that simulate honeybees’ vision. Their booth featured a beehive and samples of local honey produced by bees that reside in the Sherwood Demonstration Garden. Left to right, Leandra Hale of Lake Tahoe, Amanda Snell of Placerville and Bryan Rider of Placerville. Above, Alan Ahnfeldt of Placerville stands next to a worm compost bin he created by
store. The bin
CDFW finalizes the State Wildlife Action Plan 2025
Cassidee Shinn & Steve Gonzalez
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is excited to announce the State Wildlife Action Plan 2025 update is complete and can be found on the CDFW SWAP web page. California’s SWAP, which is mandated by Congress and updated at least every 10 years, provides a comprehensive wildlife conservation strategy that is achieved through various conservation projects executed statewide.
Public and tribal input significantly shaped the plan. In March 2025, the SWAP Team held two public webinars, four conservation partner meetings and two inter-Tribal listening sessions. In conjunction with these meetings, a public draft review generated over 160 comments from nearly 20 organizations, tribes and the public. Since 2005, CDFW and partners have implemented SWAP conservation strategies with funding support from
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife’s State Wildlife Grant program, which has awarded CDFW with nearly $71 million since 2000. This year marks the SWG program’s 25th anniversary.
CDFW uses SWG funds to develop and implement its SWAP and to support
wildlife conservation projects across the state. Funded projects must support strategies outlined under SWAP, whether it’s to benefit a species or to implement a SWAP goal or conservation strategy. This funding is critical to species that aren’t protected and non-game
species that often lack adequate funding sources. Conservation efforts benefitting from SWAP and SWG funding include the White-Nose Syndrome Response Project, established to monitor California’s bat population for the deadly disease that could wipe out
entire colonies of these small mammals; bats play a critical role in protecting agricultural lands from pests. Another SWG funded project has successfully established a new population of Unarmored Threespine Stickleback fish in Southern California; this unique species’ range has been significantly reduced due to human development. These and other conservation highlights can be found on CDFW’s SWAP web page. At its heart, SWAP is a non-regulatory blueprint to conserve California’s fish and wildlife, and their habitats. It combines the latest science and conservation priorities with recommended actions and tools. SWAP 2025 includes updated information on the current health of California’s fish, wildlife and plant resources. Explore SWAP 2025 at wildlife. ca.gov/SWAP/Final to learn about CDFW’s conservation tools, as well as habitat and wildlife monitoring efforts. Questions about SWAP can be directed to the CDFW SWAP Team at SWAP@ wildlife.ca.gov.
Tahoe Basin’s grading season ends today
Jeff
Cowen Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
LAKE TAHOE — The Tahoe Regional Planning Agency reminds residents and contractors that the annual grading and digging season for permitted projects end on Wednesday, Oct. 15. All construction sites must be winterized to protect Lake Tahoe’s famed water clarity. Grading season in the Tahoe Basin runs from May 1 to Oct. 15 every year.
The long-standing requirement helps prevent sediment from washing into stormwater systems and the lake and prevents soil compaction and disturbance during the wettest months. Site winterization requirements are available on trpa.gov/applicationsforms/winterization-guidelines.
The agency is able to review applications for a grading season exception at trpa.gov/inspections-andsecurities if a public health, safety or water quality emergency exists.
Some digging activities are considered exempt and do not require TRPA approval, even outside of the grading season. To remain exempt, these activities must adhere to water quality standards and only continue during dry conditions. When a site is wet or covered with snow, work must stop and the site must be stabilized following the winterization guidelines at the link above. A list of exempt projects is under “How do I know if I need a permit?” at trpa.gov/frequently-asked-questions.
The grading and digging season for permitted projects at Lake Tahoe will reopen May 1, 2026.
Easily
Photo courtesy of TRPA
Construction sites in the Tahoe Basin must be winterized between Oct. 15 and May 1 every year to protect the lake’s clarity from erosion and sediment.
Courtesy photo
California’s State Wildlife Action Plan includes establishing a monitoring program for California’s bat population, which has suffered in recent years due to White-Nose Syndrome.
CLASSICS SHINE ON THE GREEN
Undergrounding
Continued from A2
Undergrounding and System Hardening, praised his team for its focus on protecting customers.
“It feels amazing to be making a difference that will last for many, many years, for decades, by putting these lines underground and reducing wildfire risk for
Path Continued from A1
2000s visited Dahl several times while she was held in an Oregon jail on unrelated drug charges. The claim states Dahl was “coerced” into confessing she witnessed him kill Hylton, a confession that included the “fact” she herself participated. Dahl pleaded guilty to manslaughter in 2005 and died in 2014. She was posthumously declared factually innocent in June 2024.
Michael Green, the man whose DNA matched what was found at the crime scene, pleaded no contest to second-degree murder in 2022 and was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison.
A better technique
Since the Davis exoneration, Pierson and his investigators have worked closely with California’s Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training to overhaul interrogation practices, moving away from coercive techniques that risk false confessions and financial liabilities. The local team is now leading statewide training initiatives through POST, teaching law enforcement rapportbased, science-backed interviewing methods.
“When we know better, we need to be better,” explained Melanie Torres, media and community relations with the EDC District Attorney’s Office.
Lawsuit
County’s appeal, kicking the case back to local courts. Last April El Dorado County Superior Court Judge Gary Slossberg ruled, “Defendants have failed to substantially comply with the five-year findings requirement.” The ruling also states that not only were studies not completed within the MFA’s timeframe, “The most glaring omission from the record is any finding that ‘demonstrate(s) a reasonable relationship between the fee and the purpose for which it is charged,’ as required by government code …”
“As such … a refund is mandated, the amount to be determined in the next phase of trial,” the April 15, 2024, ruling’s disposition reads.
El Dorado County AuditorController Joe Harn informed the Board of Supervisors, which is responsible for approving all nexus studies, in writing in 2013, 2014 and 2015 of MFA violations in the levying of these permit fees but the county continued to collect on behalf of itself and the other agencies. All necessary studies were eventually updated and approved by the supervisors with procedures put into place to ensure a lapse wouldn’t happen again.
The EDHCSD settled its portion of the case in January 2025 and EDH Fire followed with its settlement last month.
The county’s statement issued last week maintains, “Most of the legal issues raised in this case were novel issues that required the courts to interpret the intent behind the Mitigation Fee Act. While this case was hard fought over the years, the county, through its defense of the case, was able to reduce its fee refund exposure by approximately 50%.
Although the county has the option to appeal, the board determined that ending this nearly decade-long litigation was in the best interests of the county, its residents and the TIF Program.”
“The county remains disappointed
the long run,” he said.
According to a report by the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, PG&E was recognized as one of the nation’s top utilities for wildfire readiness, exemplifying the highest level
“The goal is every law enforcement agency around the world would use these techniques,” added Chief Assistant District Attorney Lisette Suder.
Pierson called the reform a “game changer” that sets “a new standard for truth-seeking in interviews across California.”
The Science-Based Interviewing Fundamentals course focuses on listening, building rapport and treating each interviewee with respect, Suder said. Investigators don’t go into an interview with blinders on or steer a suspect or witness into a particular direction; they engage the individuals and let them do the talking.
“There’s always evidence and the truth is the truth but sometimes … the more they talk the more they sink themselves as well — even though they’re not confessing,” Suder explained.
SBI also takes deception out of the interview process. “No more, ‘Alright, I’ve got your DNA right here,’ when you don’t have it,” she continued. “When you feel like you’re not being treated like a thing — you’re being treated like a human — then … science has shown (people) are more apt to talk to you and tell you things.”
POST has initiated SBI training for new detectives while Pierson and his team work with agencies to integrate the techniques with veteran
in the outcome of this litigation,” said District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp. “The TIF program enabled and is currently enabling the construction of important transportation infrastructure in the County by ensuring that new development pays its fair share of the cost.”
The TIF program has facilitated the county’s compliance with its voter approved General Plan policies regarding roadway levels of service and infrastructure concurrency, according to county officials.
“The Austins’ lawsuit and the court’s ruling will affect the county’s ability to meet the General Plan’s goals and to deliver the infrastructure that is critical to the well-being of the county,” added District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin.
Under the terms of the settlement agreement per the county’s news release, the total settlement amount is $14,769,601 — $5,219,601 will be used to satisfy the Austins’ attorneys’ demand for their fees and costs and $50,000 will be paid as a stipend to the Austins, since they are not otherwise eligible for a refund, and $9,500,000 will then be refunded on a prorated basis to eligible property owners in accordance with the Mitigation Fee Act. The county’s TIF funds will cover all expenses except the Austins’ stipend.
Within the next two months, the Board of Supervisors will determine the method by which prorated refunds will be issued, the statement explains, which could include direct payments, a temporary suspension of fee collection, fee credits, a combination of the foregoing or by any other reasonable means. “Once the method of prorated refund is determined, the eligible property owners will be identified and processing of payments can begin,” in concludes. “Depending on the method chosen by the board, payment processing could take seven months or more to complete.”
of preparedness. The report also ranked PG&E’s Wildfire Mitigation Plan at Tier 1 maturity, the highest possible score in the assessment.
To learn more about PG&E’s wildfire safety efforts, visit pge.com/wildfiresafetyprogess.
law enforcement in California and beyond. A symposium is planned in 2026 in Southern California.
Preventing further harm
SBI not only aids in the prevention of wrongful convictions, but can also help bring criminals to justice sooner, according to DA officials. In the “American Nightmare” reinvestigation case out of Vallejo, officials asserted flawed interviewing of victims Denise Huskins Quinn and Aaron Quinn allowed kidnapper Matthew Muller to avoid capture and commit two more terrifying home invasions before he was taken into custody in 2015.
Pierson, alongside Alameda Sheriff’s Lt. Misty Carausu and Seaside Police Chief Nick Borges, reopened the case and, after more than 10 months of reinvestigation efforts, using modern SBI techniques, they uncovered the additional serious crimes, including a kidnapping and sexual assault case from 1993, two home invasions in 2009 and a 2015 home invasion/
kidnapping for ransom case that had not been previously reported to police.
“Our partnership with POST is ensuring law enforcement adopts methods that prioritize truth, protect the innocent, prevent wrongful incarcerations and stop perpetrators from further victimizing others — as seen in the ‘American Nightmare’ case,” Pierson said.
Suder noted the prevailing interrogation technique — the Reid Technique — is still lawful and used by law enforcement. Information provided by the DA’s Office notes this method heavily relies on an array of pseudo-scientific and psychologically manipulative strategies. “A compounding problem with relying on behavior to distinguish between truth and lies is twofold: interrogators often overestimate their ability to detect deception, which then intensifies the accusatorial nature of the interview,” SBI course information states. “These flawed interrogation tactics collectively increase the potential for false confessions.”
Photos by Laurie Edwards
Left, Robert Patyi wipes down the tires of this restored collector 1960 Jaguar XK150 Roadster owned by the Niello Company. At right, Robert Robards stands beside his 2007 Aston Martin DB9, class AM2, a striking blend of style and performance, at the Niello Concours at Serrano in El Dorado Hills on Sunday, Oct. 5.
OPINION
California Matters
Gerrymander duelists deserve scorn for partisan power plays
Last week I, along with millions of other Californians, received a one-page ballot for the Nov. 4 special election.
My initial reaction as I opened the envelope was anger, perhaps even disgust, that I and my fellow voters are being asked to ratify Proposition 50, a nakedly partisan power play by Gov. Gavin Newsom and Democratic legislators trying to grab additional congressional seats for their party.
They want us to set aside — perhaps temporarily, perhaps not — the work of an independent commission that four years ago drew the 52 current districts after months of hearings and discussions. Democrats have benefited greatly from that plan but now want to greatly reduce Republican-held seats to near-zero.
The election is costing taxpayers nearly $300 million out of a state budget that’s already billions of dollars out of balance, thus violating in spirit, if not in law, the state constitution’s prohibition of “gifts of public funds.”
Prop. 50, if enacted, is not only a gift to the Democratic Party as it jousts with Republicans for control of Congress over the next three election cycles, it also blatantly serves Newsom’s obvious intention to run for president in 2028.
California’s gerrymander could have no e ect on what happens in the 2026 congressional elections, but its e ect on California could be heavy.
However, President Donald Trump is equally deserving of disgust for his role in the gerrymander game. He claims, without evidence, that the 2020 election that denied him a second term was rigged, yet now he wants to rig the 2026 congressional elections.
Trump is asking red states to alter their congressional districts to give the GOP an advantage in the skirmish with Democrats over control of the House.
After Texas Republicans complied to gain five seats, Newsom countered with Prop. 50, which would approve districts that have been redrawn in secret, ignoring the fairness guidelines the independent commission followed.
The tit-for-tat duel symbolizes the perpetual power struggles that have replaced governance in the nation’s political system.
At the moment it appears that Prop. 50 will succeed. A new poll of 1,000 likely voters, conducted by the research firm co/e cient, found that 54% were supporting the measure, 36% were opposed and 10% were still undecided, reflecting the state’s pro-Democrat, anti-Trump voting history.
Eric McGhee, who charts political trends for the Public Policy Institute of California, says in a new analysis that passage of Prop. 50 could give
■ See WALTERS, page A7
Letters to the Editor
Fire with re
EDITOR:
Arecent letter about Proposition 50 was a bit misleading. It’s true that districts are re-mapped every 10 years after each census to assure the same number of people are in each district (over 700,000).
It doesn’t “end community input” because that’s why it is on the ballot — for your input. It doesn’t violate the Constitution because this is a “Legislative Constitutional Amendment.” It won’t “divide communities” because the rule is a district must keep like communities together.
And all this because Republicans in Texas were asked by Mr. Trump to “please redistrict and find me five more Republican Representatives.” Now that’s cheating and a brazen assault on Democracy.
In order to fight fire with fire, California is doing the same, just to even things out, to make it more fair. Vote yes on Prop. 50.
BETSEY KERR Placerville
A project worth supporting
EDITOR:
Your recent coverage of El Dorado County’s deepening budget deficit highlights a clear reality: we can’t tax or cut our way to stability. With county departments already facing
5-10% budget reductions, the Board of Supervisors has an opportunity on Oct. 28 to choose a solution that generates lasting revenue instead of higher taxes.
The Town & Country Village El Dorado project at Highway 50 and Bass Lake Road in El Dorado Hills would create hundreds of local jobs and an estimated $4.3 million in new annual General Fund revenue, with no impact on schools or existing neighborhoods. This 30-acre mixed-use development — less than one-tenth of 1% of El Dorado Hills — strengthens our economy through tourism, not taxation.
Approving this project signals that El Dorado County can act decisively and responsibly to balance its budget without burdening residents. I urge the board and our community to support smart growth that funds public safety, parks and infrastructure for years to come.
RANDALL M. LaFROM El Dorado Hills
Restore justice
EDITOR:
Lady Justice is no longer wearing a blindfold, and her gaze seems frozen to the right. From removing reports from the Department of Justice site, to dropping cases
The Balancing Act
A promise of Palestine calls for the destruction of Israel
Palestine is almost an entire lie. There has never been a nation/ state, even on the Roman/Greek level called Palestine. Palestine is a group of Arabs, basically refugees, that no other country in the area wants — not Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia or any other Islamic or Arab country. The areas just named have hundreds of thousands of square miles and they are unwilling to carve out 5,000 square miles of their desert so the Palestinians can have a real country or nation/state. To put that in perspective Gaza is an area of just 100-150 square miles (but with over two million people) — less than
a tenth the size of El Dorado County. Israel has an area of about 8,000 square miles or about the size of Massachusetts. Recently, left leaning countries have started recognizing a Palestinian state, with no borders or land. They want Israel to give up its precious land. These countries include the European Union, Australia and Canada, all with about 3 million square miles of land. Australia could give up 10,000 square miles of the Outback and never know it. Palestine was never a country. It is the name of a geographical region derived from the Philistine people, with Israel being near its center. It is no di erent than the Mojave Desert or Sierra Nevada. It has no political
Palestine was never a country. It is the name of a geographical region derived from the Philistine people, with Israel being near its center.
meaning. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said, “Since 1947, it has been the policy of every Canadian government to support a two-state solution for lasting peace in the Middle East.” The Australian prime minister said something similar. It just demonstrates the ignorance of these two leaders and every other Western nation on the history of the Middle East. It is not Israel that doesn’t want a two- state solution, it is the Arabs and the Palestinians. In 1948, the UN resolved (Resolution 181) to create a two-state solution, about 5,000 square miles for the Palestinians and a separate 3,000-square-mile state for Israel.
But on May 14, 1948, when Israel declared its independence, the Arabs declared war on Israel and planned to drive the Israelis into the sea. They told Arabs living in Israel to flee and when the Arabs wiped out Israel, they could come back and even have more property. Many Arabs left Israel. Unfortunately for the Arabs, a rag-tag Israeli Army and Air Force (composed of used World War II fighters) totally defeated the invaders. The Arabs that left in greed were not allowed to return and, as in war, the victor, Israel, expanded its meager size. But the Arabs still didn’t accept a two-state solution. In 1967, the
DAN WALTERS
LARRY WEITZMAN
Democrats 47 of the state’s 52 congressional seats, a gain of four, if every California district won by Kamala Harris last year also votes Democratic in 2026.
Democrats hope for a five-seat gain to offset the assumed five-seat loss in Texas. However, officials in at least six other red states are working on redistricting plans to increase Republican chances of maintaining House control in 2026. Meanwhile, other blue states have contemplated following California’s example, but the efforts don’t appear to be bearing fruit.
California’s gerrymander could have no effect on what happens in the 2026 congressional elections, but its effect on California could be heavy.
The new districts would be in place for three election cycles and, as written, Prop. 50 would disappear after the 2030 census, returning redistricting to the independent commission.
The California delegation is likely to lose four seats after the census due to very slow, if any, population growth. The five new Democratic members of Congress — Prop. 50 babies, as it were — would probably be reluctant to give up
their seats. Therefore, the next governor and legislators would be under heavy pressure to maintain Democratic dominance of the delegation by retaining gerrymander power.
So how will my disgust about the entire process affect my vote — even if I resist the temptation to toss my ballot into the nearest wastebasket? I really don’t know.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
Letters Continued from A6 against high-ranking members of the Trump Administration, to firing prosecutors for refusing to comply with White House demands, to reducing the number of those charged with fighting corruption, this administration seems more intent on using the DOJ to its own ends rather than ensuring justice for all.
Following the murder of Charlie Kirk, an act Trump and his sycophants blamed on the far left, the DOJ removed a study from its website that concluded far-right extremists were responsible for the majority of domestic terrorist attacks in the United States.
In September of this year the New York Times reported that the FBI recorded Trump Border Czar Tom Homan taking a bag containing $50,000 from an agent and agreeing to help secure government contracts for border security if Donald Trump won the presidential election. Shortly after Trump returned to the White House, the DOJ dropped the case against Homan, citing insufficient evidence, despite the reported FBI recording.
Late the same month, Erick Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, resigned his position after refusing to carry out Donald Trump’s demand that Siebert file charges against former FBI Director James Comey. Siebert cited lack of evidence to carry out a prosecution for his decision.
A day after Comey’s resignation, Trump appointed former Miss Colorado finalist Lindsay Halligan, a member of the White House staff, who has served on only three federal cases and has no prosecutorial experience, to replace Comey.
In addition to the above, a recently released report shows that when Trump took office eight months ago, the DOJ had 36 experienced attorneys assigned full-time to investigate corrupt politicians and police officers. Today there are two.
“To me, it just screams that public corruption cases are no longer a priority of DOJ,” said Andrew Tessman, a prosecutor who left the Justice Department last month. “I cannot understand why we would want to restrict that section.”
It’s long past time to replace the blindfold.”
GEORGE LLOYD
Placerville
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 CribbersWe Play - We Teach - We Have Fun Wednesdays 4:00 PM Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452
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
Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.
RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun
Valley Conference game against Liberty Ranch High’s squad.
But the host Hawks flew fast and often, which led to a 46-14 win over the Cougars at Hawk Stadium in Galt.
El Dorado (1-3 in the SVC, 2-5 overall) scored its first touchdown of the game in the first quarter, after Liberty Ranch (4-0 in the SVC, 7-0) jumped out to a 21-0 lead.
Receiving the kickoff after the Hawks scored their third touchdown, the Cougars started their offensive drive at their own 31. Thanks to a personal foul and pass interference penalties called against Liberty Ranch that moved the chains, plus a reverse play in which Cougar wide receiver Hunter Morris gained 10 yards rushing, the drive was completed when quarterback Hunter Rupley found another receiver in Logan Kruse on a 21-yard strike with 1:55. Brendan Franks’ extra-point kick cut the Hawks’ lead to 21-7.
“We knew coming into the game we could throw the ball,” said Placek, whose squad had 202 yards in the air and 289 total offensive yards. “We were a little inaccurate earlier in the game.”
Liberty Ranch added its final touchdown in the opening quarter with 19.4 seconds left when quarterback Ryan Ogas became part of the scoring parade on a 6-yard run. The kick improved the Hawks’ lead to 28-7.
Liberty Ranch and El Dorado traded offensive possessions that led to a combined two punts and two turnovers throughout most of the
second quarter.
However, the Hawks found the end zone at 1:07 on the clock when Corriea scored his third TD of the game, busting up the middle of his own offensive line and the Cougars’ defensive line and linebackers for an 86-yard score. The extra point missed the uprights, leaving the game 34-7 at halftime.
The Hawks’ defense delivered a knockout punch to the Cougars in the early minutes of the third quarter. Rupley threw a pass intended for a receiver but landed in the hands of linebacker Joe Lara. But Liberty Ranch had a lot of work in moving the ball, starting its drive at its own 32.
“You can’t give a team that is that good extra possessions,” Placek said.
The long wait paid off for the Hawks when Ogas called his own number, kept the ball and went up to the center of the field 37 yards for a touchdown with 5:04 remaining on the clock. The extra
point was, again, no good but the Hawks increased their lead to 40-7.
“We typically have strong second halves,” said Liberty Ranch head coach Warren Schroeder. “We made some adjustments on both sides of the ball.”
El Dorado scored its final touchdown of the game after receiving the kickoff. Running back Tyler Villa took the
handoff from Rupley and swept to the right side of his offensive line for a 7-yard touchdown at 1:27. Franks’ extrapoint kick was good, now at 40-14.
Liberty Ranch found the end zone one last time at 4:52 in the fourth quarter. That is when running back James Rangel carried the rock on an 8-yard run. The extra point was missed.
Scoreboard
Jesuit 24, Oak Ridge 14 — In Carmichael on Friday, Oak Ridge (2-2 in the Sierra Foothill League, 4-3) trailed host Jesuit (2-1 in the SFL, 5-2) by a 10-7 score at halftime.
The Marauders scored a touchdown in the third quarter and kept the Trojans out of the end zone until the fourth quarter when they scored their second and final TD of the night.
The Trojans had 198 total offensive yards: 113 in the air and 85 on the ground. Jasen Womack had 18 carries for 63 yards for the Trojans, and 9 receptions for 65 yards for a combined 128 total offensive yards. He also scored the Trojans’ two touchdowns.
Liberty Ranch wasted no time in scoring against El Dorado in the first quarter of the game. Running a lot of counter plays, the Hawks found the end zone at 10:12 on the clock when running back Andrew Quinn scored one of his two touchdowns in the quarter, this one a 14-yard jaunt. Rangel
n See COUGARS, page A9
Tahoe athletes join Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team
Katelyn Welsh Tahoe Daily Tribune
LAKE TAHOE —
Tahoe athletes are among the 49-member Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team announced for the 2025-26 season, joining highly decorated names such as Mikaela Shiffrin and Lindsey Vonn.
Among the women’s A Team are AJ Hurt and Nina O’Brien, who were both Team Palisades Tahoe members and Dartmouth College alums.
This Friday, Oak Ridge takes a break from SFL action to host Monte Vista in a non-league game that is scheduled at 7 p.m. Ponderosa 49, Christian Brothers 28 — In Sacramento on Friday, Ponderosa proved to be too much offensive power, grounding the Falcons in a Capital Valley Conference game. Quarterback Colton Ridgley led Ponderosa (2-1 in the CVC, 5-2), completing 8 of 12 passes for 125 yards. Running back Marshall Alvarnaz had 13 carries for 88 yards and three touchdowns and Cole Pratt had 12 carries for 81 yards a touchdown. Zealand Jenks finished with 9 carries for 76 yards n See SCOREBOARD page A9 Coaches,
Three-time national alpine champion, Hurt is from Carnelian Bay and grew up with Palisades Tahoe as her winter playground. Her regional roots run deep with a father who has been a Palisades Tahoe ski patrol member for the past 30 years.
O’Brien started her racing career on the Palisades Tahoe team before moving east to attend Burke Mountain Academy. She competed in the 2022 Olympics and is an eight-time national champion. On the men’s A team is Olympic Valley’s Bryce Bennett, who began skiing Palisades Tahoe at the age of 2. A two-
time World Cup winner, he joined the Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team in 2011 and has been named to two Olympics in his career. Palisades Tahoe team members, Keely Cashman and Allison Mollin join the women’s B team. Mollin of Truckee, first joined the Stifel team in the 2023-2024 season.
During that season she won the NorAm titles for super-G and downhill.
Cashman is from Strawberry and in addition to Team Palisades Tahoe, was also on the Bear Valley Team. She joined the Stifel team in 2018 and has since been to the 2022 Olympics, was the 2020 NorAm Overall Winner and World Juniors Bronze Medalist. The men’s B Team roster lists Erik Arvidsson from Woodside, who
for the
team. He joined Stifel
in 2014, and raced for Middlebury College on the NCAA circuit, making the 2018 NCAA First Team AllAmerican. The start to the season is quickly approaching with the first World Cup in Sölden, Austria on Oct. 25-26. With 20 women’s World Cups, 19 men’s World Cups and the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Stifel U.S. Alpine ski team has a packed schedule ahead.
skied
Palisades Tahoe
Courtesy photo
The Stifel U.S. Alpine Ski Team features several Tahoe-based athletes who will compete in the upcoming action-packed season.
Photos by Mike Bush
El Dorado quarterback Hunter Rupley (7) gets ready to throw the football in Friday’s SVC game against Liberty Ranch at Hawk Stadium. Below, El Dorado linebacker Steele Engle puts the wraps on Liberty Ranch running back Joe Lara (3) during the Oct. 10 game.
Trojan runners take on Fresno meet
Special to the Mountain Democrat
Oak Ridge High School sent 40 cross country athletes to the Clovis Invitational on Oct. 11 at Woodward Park in Fresno — all of who put in “outstanding e orts,” according to head coach Rob Fairley.
Many Trojan athletes obtained 5K personal records racing on the challenging state meet course under ideal weather conditions, Fairley shared. The athletes competed against schools from all over California.
The ORHS varsity boys team placed 2nd out of 32 teams in the
Scoreboard Continued from A8
and a touchdown.
Jenks had a good outing at his receiver position, catching three passes for 45 yards.
On defense, defensive back Tucker Soriano led the Bruins with six tackles and Mason Schade had five.
D2 Race and the varsity girls team who placed 9th out of 16 teams in the Championship Race. Senior Thomas Capelli placed 6th and ran 14:43.8 — the second fastest time all-time at Oak Ridge on the Woodward Park course. Ryan Cosens in 2006 set the course record at 15:43.0. Senior Adriana Ingargiola placed 17th in the Championship Race with a time of 17:59.7. She is the fourth female athlete at Oak Ridge to break 18:00 on the Woodward Park course. Maddy Denner in 2017 set the school record for the Woodward Park course with at time of 16:58.7.
This Friday at Simon-Bruin Stadium, Ponderosa welcomes CVC foe Rio Americano (2-1 in the CVC, 4-3) in a game that could have playo implications. The game is scheduled to start at 7 p.m.
Cougars Continued from A8
booted the extra point for a 7-0 score.
El Dorado recovered the kicko return, which was briefly, as the kicko return specialist fumbled the ball and Liberty Ranch recovered the ball at the Cougar 48-yard line.
An 8-play, 48-yard drive ended when running back Wyatt Correia scored on a 9-yard counter play with 6:24 left in the quarter. The extrapoint kick gave the Hawks a 14-0 advantage.
After El Dorado went three and out on its second o ensive drive,
Weitzman Continued from A6
Arabs, Egypt, Syria, Jordan and other surrounding Arab states mounted a military threat along Israel’s borders in a plan to finally destroy Israel. To counteract the imminent Arab assault, Israel launched an attack on all fronts and again wiped out Arab forces, taking control of more land and expanding its bu er zone.
But that wasn’t enough for the Arabs still surrounding Israel. In 1973, on the evening of Yom Kipper, Israel’s holiest day, Egypt mounted a sneak attack on Israel through the Sinai and crossed the Suez Canal. At first it didn’t look good for Israel, but the tenacious little country showed its superior tactics and training. Their forces surrounded the better equipped Egyptian Third Army in the desert and destroyed the Egyptian Air Force in a battle that almost resembled the Marianas Turkey Shoot of World War II — and not just with better
COMICS
■
Bradshaw Christian 37, Union Mine 16 — In Friday’s SVC game in El Dorado, Union Mine (1-3 in the SVC, 1-6) held The Pride to a 14-8 lead at halftime. But Bradshaw Christian scored two touchdowns in the third quarter and another one in the final to post the victory.
Union Mine is at home again for another conference game this Friday, hosting Amador at 7:30 p.m.
the Hawks got the ball back on a punt return. On the third play of its o ensive drive, Liberty Ranch reached Cougar territory when Correia took the hando from Ogas and rocketed 83 yards to the El Dorado 12.
Two plays later, Quinn found the end zone again on a 7-yard run with 3:45 left on the clock. The kick made it 21-0.
This Friday, El Dorado is back at Cougar Stadium, hosting Rosemont in an SVC game that is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m.
equipment, but with incredible skill, discipline and training, using older Douglas A4 Skyhawks. The Egyptians thought the Israelis had double or triple the number of airplanes as their turnaround times were down to about 11 minutes and those Skyhawks pounded the Egyptian forces into submission in six days.
Then there was the Arafat Intifada of the 1980s. I could go on. The point being: the Palestinians and Arab allies don’t want a two-state solution; they want the total elimination of Israel. The Palestinians want a one state solution, themselves.
What is amazing is that none of these “genius” Western leaders understand history. Jorge Santayana is right again: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.
Coaches, get your team in the Mountain Democrat!
Send game scores, highlights and photos to nstack@mtdemocrat.net.
SUDOKU
ARIES (March 21-April 19). No need to justify your choices. You just choose. You don’t audition for approval, you show up and do your thing. All the validation you need is already in your own pocket. Who has time to prove yourself when you’re this busy being yourself?
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). It’s possible to feel joy that is untethered from whatever is happening in your life and relationships. Maybe situations aren’t ideal, but your emotional independence from circumstance is something to celebrate.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You are part scientist, part dreamer today as you gather the data needed to correctly assess what you’re up against, what is yours to leverage and what you still need. Then you imagine your way through the rest.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). Comparing your trouble to someone else’s doesn’t make it smaller. It just makes you harsher on yourself, which isn’t necessary now. Heed the signals that your body gives you about the rest or activity that you need.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’re not a machine on a deadline. You’re a cat on a sun-warmed windowsill. Rest isn’t laziness; it’s elegance. The world can wait while you purr. Tonight, trade one to-do for a long stretch.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Replay a moment in your head the way you wish it had gone. See yourself saying the right words and making the right moves. Your fantasy is like a practice run that lets the mind rehearse success. Reality will echo.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). There are some people you love so much, when they make a mess of things, it’s like art to you. You even frame it, metaphorically at least. And you can count yourself in that group of zany artists. There’s a ne line between “mess” and “abstraction.”
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Strengthening your core isn’t just about doing sit-ups. It’s spiritual. Life can be like going through the car wash without a car. We’re not built for it. A strong core keeps us upright, or it helps us turn back and go the other way before we get knocked around. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’ll
SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin
■ SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
Courtesy photo
Trojan runners are ready to hit the course at the Clovis Invitational.
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
Oct. 15
Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host a free Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment Group from 1:30-3 p.m. at Foothills Church, 2380 Merrychase Drive, Cameron Park. To register, call (916) 461-4123.
Want to know what you can do to save your home from wildfire? Are you interested in knowing what the Camino Fire Safe Council is doing for the benefit of your community?
Attend the council’s monthly gathering at 6:30 p.m. at Cal Fire Mt. Danahar Station 20 in the conference room, 2840 Mt. Danaher Road, Camino. FireWise community certificates will be available.
The Amador-El Dorado Forest Forum will meet at Golden Dragon in Placerville to discuss the Caldor Fire Restoration Project. Social Hour begins at 6 p.m. with dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the presentation at 7:15 p.m. RSVP by emailing dianedealeyneill@gmail.com or call (530) 417-1960.
InConcert Sierra presents American Brass Quintet at 2 p.m. For more information visit inconcertsierra.org.
Capital Stage in Sacramento presents the Sacramento premiere of “Eureka Day” through Nov. 16. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.
Oct. 16
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Luncheon from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Red Hawk Casino’s Koto Buffet with guest speakers from Pioneer Community Energy. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
Barton Health will host a Community Health Fair at Bijou from 3-6 p.m. at Bijou Elementary School. Learn more about services and education opportunities. Open to the entire community, free flu vaccinations provided by El Dorado County Public Health, free health screenings and free dinner for attendees provided by Tacos Por Favor. Interpretation services onsite. For details, visit BartonHealth.org.
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting at Grocery Outlet on Fair Lane in Placerville at 9:30 a.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
Ten Foot Tiger will perform, 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents the Black Feminisms film series with “The Watermelon Woman” from 1996 at 6 p.m. For tickets and more information visit crockerart.org.
Oct. 17
The Sierra Renaissance Society hosts Marshall Foundation for Community Health Executive Director Mindy Danovaro, who will present “The Future of Healthcare in Western El Dorado County,” 1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road in Diamond Springs. Admission free for members; public invited to attend two meetings for free. The Sierra Renaissance Society of El Dorado County is dedicated
Udderly delicious
Andrew Vonderschmitt
Features editor
Nestled in the Sierra foothills, Jollity Farm has become one of El Dorado County’s hidden gems. Visitors stepping onto the farm are greeted by curious goats peering over pens, hand-lettered signs inviting exploration and the faint aroma of fresh cheese wafting from the creamery. The farm is open daily, welcoming guests to witness the workings of a real, operational dairy — no appointment needed.
“We are a real working farm, emphasis on working,” said owners MaryLisa and Charley Cornell. “You are welcome to visit, but we might be busy milking goats, cleaning the barn … or stirring up a fresh batch of cheese.”
From Silicon Valley to Garden Valley
Neither Cornell grew up in El Dorado County.
MaryLisa is originally from Michigan but moved to Sacramento as a baby, while Charley hails from the Bay Area.
“I grew up in Silicon Valley when it was still fruit orchards,” Charley said.
Both had early exposure to outdoor life, hiking and camping in the Desolation Wilderness. Charley’s father even filed a mining claim in the 1980s in the Caldor area — a glimpse into the region’s rich history that would later become home.
Their journey into goat dairying began in Sacramento, with a pair of goats named Betty and Wilma.
“I always liked goats,” Charley said. “Having goats, the first one we got in Sacramento … well, that led to more goats, more milk and eventually cheese.”
The birth of Jollity Farm
MaryLisa and Charley met through the Gold Country Dairy Goat Association in the 1990s, sharing a passion for goats and artisanal cheese.
“I Googled him and thought, ‘Wow, you’re a real cheesemaker!’” MaryLisa recalled.
That connection eventually brought MaryLisa’s own goats to Charley’s property, boosting milk quality and cheese yield. In 2004, the couple purchased the Garden Valley property, beginning construction in 2008. By 2010, their new buildings were complete, and by 2011, the Cornells had a
licensed dairy with 24 goats. Today, the herd numbers nearly 50, fluctuating seasonally between 50 and 150 depending on breeding cycles.
Cheese, soap and sustainability
Charley focuses on cheesemaking, while MaryLisa produces soaps, lotions and bodycare products using goat milk. Their cheeses include chèvre, feta, cranberry and garlicdill varieties, all crafted from milk produced on-site.
“We don’t sell raw milk,” Charley explained. “We produce milk for manufacturing, then make cheese. We have all the licenses required by the state of California to produce cheese, but not to sell milk for drinking.”
MaryLisa’s soapmaking predates her farm days, beginning in 1997. Today, every bar is handmade, cured for at least four weeks, and crafted to preserve the natural qualities of goat milk.
“Long before I had goats of my own, I was making small batches,” she said.
Milk cycles and the herd
Milking and breeding at Jollity Farm are carefully coordinated. Goats are seasonal cyclers, with gestation lasting about 150 days.
“We stop milking them two months before they’re due to kid, usually around the winter solstice,” Charley said. The farm practices
hand breeding to manage herd health and milk production.
Currently, 32 goats are milked once a day, producing roughly 20 gallons of milk.
“We could technically milk year-round, but the goats need a break, and so do we,” Charley said. The couple sells surplus goats, including males. Some become pack animals for local outdoors enthusiasts.
A farm experience for all ages
Visitors can explore pens, feed baby goats, watch milking and enjoy fresh cheese.
During breeding season, children and adults alike delight in bottle-feeding opportunities.
“There’s nothing that makes me happier than seeing a little kid come up here,” MaryLisa said. “They pick acorns, feed the goats, watch milking and really connect with where their food comes from.”
The farm also fosters community connections. MaryLisa said, “We love
sharing this with locals and visitors alike. People come, they have a great time, and they tell their friends — that’s how we’ve become one of the best-kept secrets in El Dorado County.”
The art and romance of cheese
For the Cornells, cheese is more than a product; it’s a labor of love.
“My husband is a true romantic,” MaryLisa said. “From day one, his dream was to feed the
local community, and that’s still what drives him.”
“You taste the difference when something is made with care,” agreed Charley. The couple continues to balance production with sustainability and enjoyment.
“We’re ready to scale back a little,” Charley said. “Farming is a wonderful lifestyle, but it’s hard work. We need to maintain what’s sustainable for us and the herd.”
Mountain Democrat photos by Andrew Vonderschmitt
For Charley and MaryLisa Cornell the goat farm life is a labor of love. On Jollity Farm the goats ae happy, healthy and full of character.
Tee off for a Drive for Change at The Center’s golf tourney
Andrew Vonderschmitt
Features editor
The Center for Violencefree Relationships’s second annual Drive Fore Change Golf Tournament is set for Nov. 1, at X-GOLF in El Dorado Hills Town Center. The event invites golfers and community members alike to enjoy a day of friendly competition while supporting programs that help survivors of violence and abuse rebuild their lives.
Participants can choose from three tee times beginning at 9 a.m., with an awards reception around 5 p.m. The day includes food, two drinks, a putting contest, raffle prizes and specialty challenges such as long drive and closest to the pin. All proceeds benefit The Center for Violence-free Relationships, whose mission is to eliminate domestic violence and sexual assault through prevention, education and support services.
Crisis to healing
At its core, The Center — headquartered in Placerville — stands as more than an organization. It’s a lifeline for those navigating trauma, offering safety, counseling and a path toward lasting healing.
Executive Director Matt Huckabay, who has led The Center for 17 years, said the organization’s roots stretch back more than 40 years, beginning as a crisis response agency focused on victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. But over time, he said, that narrow focus wasn’t enough to break the cycle.
“I literally watched a grandmother, a mother and a daughter come through our doors — three generations who had all received services,” Huckabay said. “I looked at that baby and thought, she’s next. Why aren’t we stopping this from being passed on?”
That realization marked a turning point. The Center began shifting its approach to address the generational transmission of family violence — expanding services beyond crisis response to include intervention for those who cause harm and holistic support for entire families.
Prevention and future generations
Huckabay believes the key to ending family violence lies in prevention.
“We’re one generation away from stopping this problem from occurring,” he said. “If we do what we’re supposed to do and hold ourselves accountable, we can make it happen.”
Under his leadership, The Center launched a program for people who cause harm — intentionally avoiding labels like “batterers” to emphasize that behavior can be changed.
“If I’m labeled, I can’t get out from under that label,” he said. “What we’re talking about is behavior — behavior that was learned and can be unlearned.”
By connecting harmful actions to learned patterns from childhood, The Center focuses on accountability, education and the possibility of change.
“We can’t leave this work up to the prisons or the criminal justice system,” Huckabay said. “If this behavior was learned, then it can be unlearned — and we have to provide a space for that.”
Community engagement
Community support fuels The Center’s mission. Events like Drive Fore Change not only raises critical funds but also raises awareness about the realities of domestic violence and the power of recovery.
Alongside the golf tournament, donors and volunteers sustain The Center’s “Circle of Hope,” a group of supporters who help maintain yearround programming for survivors, families and youth.
The Center has also expanded its outreach through what Huckabay calls a “holistic approach” to treating families. Beyond therapy and counseling, that includes housing assistance, food and transportation support, job placement help and even ensuring parents can give their children holiday gifts.
“They have to eat, they have to pay rent, they need gas in their car,” Huckabay said. “If we lift the family up while we’re working on the
emotional part, we can truly help them get ahead.”
Voices of transformation
Stories of resilience are at the heart of The Center’s work. Many clients arrive torn between leaving and staying, caught in the complex emotional space between love, fear and hope. Huckabay said the organization’s role is to guide them toward healthier relationships and self-sufficiency.
“They’ve learned to do a dysfunctional dance together,” he said. “Our job is to separate them, teach them to dance on their own, and then help them learn a new dance together — one that’s healthy and respectful.”
Challenges and the road ahead
The shift toward prevention and family-based support hasn’t been easy. Huckabay said that early on, many in the domestic violence field resisted the inclusion of men or people who cause harm.
“Funders and other providers didn’t want to touch that,” he said. “But we’re the experts. Who else is supposed to be doing this work?”
To guide its long-term strategy, The Center developed what Huckabay calls
a “theory of change” — identifying goals such as creating healthy individuals, parents and children, and then designing programs to move clients step-by-step toward those outcomes.
He said the process is designed to measure progress at every stage, ensuring that change “holds” before clients move forward. “If they aren’t ready, we stay with them until they are,” he said.
Despite challenges like limited funding and high demand, Huckabay said The Center’s small but dedicated team continues to thrive by collaborating on everything from grant proposals to program design.
“We’re good at storytelling,” he said. “Here’s our problem, here’s how we fix it, here’s why it works — and here’s what you’ll see at the end.”
Through community engagement, prevention education and events like Drive Fore Change, The Center keeps advancing its vision of a world free from violence. For many in El Dorado County, it remains a place of possibility — proof that broken does not mean beyond repair.
For more information or to register for the tournament visit thecenternow.org.
River Literary festival is coming
The inaugural Become the River Literary Festival will take place Oct. 18 from 3 to 8:30 p.m. at the Gold Trail Grange in Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park.
The festival will feature conversations about rivers, purposeful writing, extreme adventure, advocacy, risk and resilience.
The event includes a book fair and panel discussions with nine female authors from across California whose work has been shaped by their connection to rivers and their communities. The lineup includes two recently published memoirists — Susan Norman, “RISK: A Life Saved by the River” and Bridget Crocker, “The River’s Daughter” — and two New York Times best-selling authors
— Caroline Paul, “The Gutsy Girl” and Juliet Starrett, “Built to Move.”
Also participating are the current Nevada County and El Dorado County poets laureate, Karen Terrey and Moira Magneson. The festival will include information and a discussion with several local river-based nonprofits.
For a schedule of events, a list of participating authors or to reserve free tickets, visit the Eventbrite page for the Become the River Literary Festival. Admission is free, but the conversation promises to be pure gold. In addition, a Canyon Adventures Movie Night featuring films by awardwinning photographer and filmmaker Dawn Kish will be held Oct. 17 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Gold Trail Grange. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit goldtrailgrange.com.
Bands come marching to Oak Ridge
News release
Oak Ridge Music Boosters and Band are proud to host the Western Band Association Marching Band Competition in the Oak Ridge High School stadium, 3:30-9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18. This special event will feature 15 bands and more than 1,300 talented
performers, including a special exhibition performance by the Wolf Pack Marching Band from the University of Nevada, Reno. Oak Ridge isn’t the only local high school performing. Ponderosa, Union Mine and El Dorado high schools will also be there, along with bands from Antelope, Elk Grove, Fair Oaks, Olivehurst, Reno, Roseville and West Sacramento. See the full list at oakridgemusic. org. The WBA Band Competition is open to all! The community is invited to experience an electrifying showcase of precision, artistry and sound. Browse booths highlighting local arts programs and music vendors and grab dinner and snacks at the concession stand or food trucks. This promises to be an inspiring and fun-filled day for the whole family. Don’t miss the chance to support youth music education and see some of the best marching bands in action, all in one place. Find out more at the WBA website: westernbands. org/events/details. php?ID=1283. Tickets will be available online at oakridgemusic. org and at the gate. Proceeds benefit Oak Ridge Music Boosters.
Courtesy photos
The staff at The Center believes in its goal to eliminate sexual assault and domestic violence.
Getting back to educational roots at Sly Park’s science camp
Jessica Trumble-Pitel
Pleasant Valley Middle School
students of Gold Oak Union School
District recently attended Science Camp from Sept. 23–26 at Sly Park Environmental Education Center, a part of Sacramento County Office of Education.
Sixth-grade teachers, parents and students joined two other schools for four days of hands-on learning, bonding and growth.
Students were organized into cabins and learning groups led by credentialed teachers from Sly Park Environmental Education Center, with support from parent chaperones and visiting teachers.
“It was wonderful to have local students get an opportunity to learn and explore their back yard. These students left connected and excited about where they live. I had one student fearful about her big hike to the creek,” said Sly Park Environmental
A freezer delight!
What would you say to a fruit spread recipe with a low or no sugar option? Yes? Short on canning jars or just don’t want to deal with processing? Freezer jam is the answer. A bonus is that freezer jam stays soft and can be scooped out as needed while staying in the freezer. Processed and sealed jams and jellies made with less sugar or sugar substitute have a shorter shelf life — about six months. Why? Molds and microorganisms need water (found in your fruit and vegetables) to grow, and sugar acts as a preservative by binding with that water. Less sugar or sugar substitute in jams or jellies means there’s more water available for microbial growth, so they have a shorter shelf life. Using low sugar or sugar substitute means your jams or jellies will last for up to one month in the refrigerator once opened. In contrast, freezer jam or jelly will last up to a year in the freezer.
Freezer jam spreads nicely in the holes of waffles, creating wonderful pockets of jam-filled bites or between layers of a cake for a special treat. This recipe is from
Education Center teacher Ginger Schlavin, reflecting on the experience, sharing how transformative Science Camp can be for students. “I convinced her to go and push through her fears. Seeing her smile when she made it back to campus, happy she went and got to explore the Creek.”
Since California updated its Science Standards in 2019 with the Next Generation Science Standards, only 30.7% of students are meeting competency.
Those who do tend to be children of college graduates, underscoring the need to adapt science teaching so all students can succeed. This is especially vital in El Dorado County, where daily life is deeply connected to natural science processes.
At Sly Park Environmental Education Center, students explored the outdoors in many unforgettable ways. Activities included night hikes alongside tarantulas, discovering
1 14-ounce can crushed pineapple in juice, no sugar added 1 ½ cups whole raspberries ¾ cup whole blueberries
Unsweetened apple juice
1 box low-sugar or no-sugar fruit pectin* 1/3 to 2/3 cup granulated sugar or Splenda sweetener, optional
Wash and clean freezer-safe jars or containers** and lids. Wash fruit if fresh.
Reserving juice in a measuring cup, drain pineapple, pressing fruit to extract as much juice as possible. Combine drained pineapple, raspberries and blueberries in a bowl. Stir to lightly crush berries and set fruit
Continued from B1
Visiting Jollity Farm
For travelers, Jollity Farm offers more than cheese. It’s an immersive glimpse into farm life: playful goats, hands-on experiences, artisanal cheese and handcrafted soaps. Visitors can wander, feed animals, sample products and take home a tangible connection to the Sierra foothills.
Located at 5314 Marigold Mine Way, Garden Valley, the farm is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors leave with more than souvenirs — they leave with memories, knowledge and the joy of supporting a local, familyrun farm.
“Every day’s an adventure,” MaryLisa said. “If we’ve made someone smile — or made a cheese that makes their day better — that’s all the jollity we need.”
Keeping it local, keeping it real
Small dairies like Jollity face steep challenges — rising costs, regulations and competition from larger producers. Yet the Cornells believe that authenticity and community will keep them thriving.
how rope length impacts work potential through tug-of-war games, learning about the interconnectedness of the natural world while developing resilience, building friendships over shared
aside.
Add apple juice to reserved pineapple juice to equal 2 1/3 cups. In a medium saucepan, whisk low-sugar or no-sugar fruit pectin into juice. Stirring frequently, bring to a full rolling boil over medium-high heat and boil one minute, stirring constantly. Turn off heat and immediately add prepared fruit to hot pectin mixture; stir vigorously for one minute. Taste mixture. If desired, immediately stir in optional quantity of Splenda or sugar.
Ladle fruit spread into jars or containers, filling to within one inch of the top rim. Wipe rims to remove any stickiness. Apply lids tightly. Label and date. Refrigerate jars or containers until spread thickens (about 24 hours), then place in freezer.
One box of pectin equals six tablespoons.
Look for a snowflake icon and PE or HDPE for plastics manufactured for freezer temperatures. If using canning jars, use half-pints or pints with straight sides.
Learn more about UC Master Food Preserver classes, events and food preserving resources at ucanr.edu/site/uccemaster-food-preserverscentral-sierra.
“There’s still a market for food that’s made honestly,” Charlie said.
Jollity Farm continues to hum along — a blend of old-fashioned grit and modern mindfulness, with a few mischievous goats always trying to steal the spotlight.
meals and bunking and many more. These experiences blend curiosity, community and discovery into meaningful learning. Through GOUSD’s partnership with Sly Park Environmental
Education Center, Science Camp provides students with opportunities to explore their local outdoor world while fostering lasting memories, academic growth, social-emotional skills and a stronger sense of community. For more information on GOUSD visit gousd.org. For more information on Sly Park Environmental Education Center visit slyparkcenter.org.
“Every day’s an adventure,” MaryLisa said, watching one of her goats sidle up for attention. “But it’s a good life. And at the end of the day, if we’ve made someone smile — or made a cheese that makes their day better — that’s all the jollity we need.”
Courtesy photos
Students had a chance to climb a rock wall and learn about how snakes affect their ecosystems with the help of Houdini the snake.
Laurie Lewis UCCE Master Food Preserver of El Dorado County
Pixabay image
Berries are a good addition to a delightful freezer jam.
Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt Happy goats make yummy cheese.
Author uncovers the story of Placerville’s last public executions
Sean Manwaring El Dorado County Historical Society
The El Dorado County Historical Society will host author M.G. Rawls for a special presentation on her new book “Hanging Justice,” which uncovers the forgotten story of El Dorado County’s final public hangings. The event will take place Friday, Oct. 17, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the historical Morning Star (Odd Fellows) Lodge, 467 Main St., Placerville.
Rawls, the great-greatgranddaughter of the lawman who presided over the executions, will discuss her five years of research into the 1880s murder of rancher John Lowell and the subsequent trial and hangings of three men. Part of this compelling story was featured in a performance at last year’s “Save the Graves: Law & Order in El Dorado
County” event.
The author’s ancestor, Sheriff James Madison Anderson, was one of the longest-serving members of the Morning Star Lodge, the venue for the talk. The building overlooks the site where the hangings occurred, offering a unique and poignant connection to the past.
“The case captivated the entire region and revealed a deep moral conflict within the community,” Rawls said. “My research shows how many Placerville residents rallied to spare two of the condemned men, believing their sentences were too harsh. It’s a story about justice but also about compassion.”
During the event, Rawls will display a remarkable artifact: the “Mountain Queen,” a model ship carved by two of the condemned men and gifted to Sheriff Anderson while they were in his custody.
CALIFORNIA RAMBLING
Mountain Mandarins:
Placer County’s delicious gold
Barbara L. Steinberg
Special to the Mountain Democrat
Sacramento is the gateway to farm-fresh diversions.
Less than 50 miles away, in its quiet, rural communities, Placer County offers winter tours and baskets brimming with edible and seasonal delights. Heralding the arrival of mandarin season, the annual celebration of these diminutive citrus gems takes place along the Placer County farm trails and at farmers markets and festivals.
Agriculture was Placer County’s second Gold Rush. By 1856, nearly 6,000 Placer County acres were under cultivation. In the early 1900s, Newcastle was the fruit-shipping capital of the world. The diverse landscape – valleys, Gold County foothills, majestic Sierra Nevada – supports a wide range of crops including
world-famous mandarins.
In 1994, Placer County growers decided they needed a marketing arm for promoting agriculture and started Placer Grown. That same year, Joanne Neft, along with the Newcastle Area Business Association, founded the Mountain Mandarin Festival. That first year, six mandarin orchard farmers participated and saw close to 1,500 attendees. Today, there are approximately 30-35 mandarin growers in Placer County, and 15 orchards are represented at the festival, which now attracts more than 35,000 visitors a year who delight in the succulent fruit, available only from November through January.
An A-peeling fruit
The Satsuma mandarin is the signature citrus crop for Placer County; these mountain mandarins are well-known within California and beyond. Satsumas are distinctive as a result of the terroir where they are grown. Warm days and cool nights translate into more
The book has already drawn attention outside the region, with recent features in Pasadena-based digital and print publications. Rawls’ family has deep roots in the county; her grandmother, Virginia Thompson Gregg, was the only child of Superior Court Judge George Henry Thompson and granddaughter of Sheriff Anderson. Her work brings a personal and deeply researched perspective to a pivotal moment in Placerville’s past.
The book talk with M.G. Rawls will be held Friday, Oct. 17, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Morning Star (Odd Fellows) Lodge in Placerville. Tickets are $15 for the general public and $10 for El Dorado County Historical Society members, available at edchs. org/events. The event is hosted by the El Dorado County Historical Society.
About the El Dorado County Historical Society
The El Dorado County Historical
intense flavors and sugars than mandarins grown in the valley or warmer locations.
“If you buy Placer County Owari Satsuma mandarins, you’re buying from the farmer.” said Rich Colwell, owner of Thundering Herd Ranch in Penryn. “We only pick when fruit is rips. It’s sweet and more flavorful.”
Cuties and Halos, the tiny mandarins that are sold widely in grocery stores, are grown in large-scale farms throughout the San Joaquin Valley. They are Clementine, tango, or Murcott mandarins, but they are not Satsumas. Available November through April, those fruits are efficiently harvested at mature green, so many do not have full coloration or the same rich flavors as locally produce mandarins. They are stored in large packing houses, often for long periods of time, and may be treated with ethylene gas to increase their orange color.
“Placer Grown farmers pick fully ripened fruit, according to color and feel,”
“Hanging Justice” is available at book sellers.
Society is dedicated to preserving, protecting and promoting the rich history of El Dorado County for the benefit of residents and visitors alike.
Colwell continued. “It’s not treated with ethylene, and it’s stored in ambient temperature conditions. We don’t grow enough for large-scale commercial markets. Generally, I would say our fruit is going to a very premium market and at premium prices.”
On the tasty trail Placer County mandarins are available at local farmers’ and specialty markets. On weekends in November and December, follow the mandarin trail to mandarin oils, sauces, honey, juices,
cookies, cakes, spreads, and, of course, hand-picked and tree-ripened fruit. Enjoy arts and crafts, farm animals, and even a visit with Santa. If you combine these local excursions with farm stays, bed & breakfasts, and vacation rentals, you’ll have a delicious night or weekend ahead of you.
The Mandarin Festival is the third weekend in November. In 2024, the festival moved to a new location @the Grounds in Roseville. For dates and times visit mandarinfestival.com.
Photo by Barbara L. Steinberg
The Mountain Manderin Festival is a citrus lover’s delight.
visit clubgreenroom.com.
to lifelong learning and hosts presentations and workshops throughout the year. For more information visit srsedc.org.
The Cameron Park Community Services District will host The Great Trunk or Treat, 5-8 p.m. at 2502 Country Club Drive. For more information visit cameronpark.org.
El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents Hanging Justice, an author’s book talk with M.G. Rawls from 6-7:30 p.m. at IOOF Morning Star Lodge, Placerville. For more information visit edchs.org.
Gold Trail Grange in Coloma will host Canyon Adventures Movie Night from 7-9 p.m. featuring films by award-winning photographer and film maker Dawn Kish. For more information visit goldtrailgrange.com.
U.B.U Rave & Club Night will take place, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Stage at Burke Junction will host Phat Joe and Friends, Home Grown Comedy at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.
Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host Wine and Chocolate Pairings on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit shadowranch.com.
Bruno and the Hooligans –tribute to Bruno Mars will perform at 8 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Oct. 18
Join the Master Gardener Volunteers for Turning Dirt into Gold from 9 a.m. to noon at Memorial Veterans Hall in Placerville. Nurturing soil is one of the best things you can do as a gardener. Plants thrive in soil that are teeming with life. Learn why this really matters and how to modify your soils to improve plant health and reduce disease and pests. Pre-register at tinyurl. com/46undvdw.
The El Dorado County Fairgrounds will host a Community Swap Meet from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is free. For more information visit eldoradocountyfair.org.
Save the Graves will host Women of Character at Placerville Union Cemetery
The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera presents “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban” in concert at 7:30 p.m. and again on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at the Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center. For tickets and more information call (916) 476-5975 or visit sacphilopera.org.
from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit savethegraveseldorado.org.
Toogood Estate Winery will host Bottle Your Own Wine from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and again on Sunday. For more information visit toogoodwinery.com.
Gold Trail Grange in Coloma will host Become the River Literary Festival of Coloma from 3-8:30 p.m. featuring panel discussions on poetry, prose and author talks. For more information visit goldtrailgrange. com.
Nello Olivo Winery will host A Haunted Mansion Open House at the Placerville Tasting Room from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit nelloolivo. com.
Ed Wilson will play at The Vine in El Dorado Hills from 6-8 p.m.
Play it Forward, a Benefit for the Triumph Foundation with The Lockdown Allstar Collective will take place, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information
Red Voodoo – Hard hitting 70s/80s style rock — with opener Doppelganger will perform at 7 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Oct. 19
El Dorado State will present Mortgage Theft Prevention” by Janelle Horne, El Dorado County Recorder-Clerk from 2-4 p.m. at the Rescue Community Center, 4180 Green Valley Road. The meeting is open to the public. For questions email republic4eldoradostate@gmail. com.
The Stage at Burke Junction will host Paint Your Pet Paw-ty at 1 p.m. For more information visit stageatburke.com.
Music on the Divide presents Chris Webster and Nina Gerber at 3 p.m. For tickets and more information visit musiconthedivide.org.
Crocker Art Museum in
Sacramento will host DIY Tarot Cards from 1-4 p.m. Delve into the rich symbolism of the tarot through the design and creation of your own tarot card using a blend of collage, ink, watercolors, and other materials. Explore spiritual symbolism, learn about the meaning behind iconic imagery, and discover how to incorporate your unique style and intuition into your creation. For more information visit crockerart. org.
Oct. 22
Sacramento Metro Chamber and Sutter Health present the Sacramento Speakers Series at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center at 7: 30 p.m. featuring Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. For tickets and more information visit sacramentospeakers.com.
Oct. 23
Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host a free Caregiver Support Group from 10:30 a.m. to noon. at Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills. The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts its Monthly Business Luncheon, featuring guest speaker Marshall CEO Siri Nelson, 11:45
Dr. Russell Jones is looking for DA/RDA for three days a week. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 8:00am to 5:00pm with 1 hour lunch. We are a private owned dental office located in Placerville. Our primary focus is on quality patient care while offering a fun, loving work environment. Please fax your resume to (530) 622-9575.
American River Conservancy awarded $100,000
Elena DeLacy
American River Conservancy
American River Conservancy recently announced its El Dorado Ranch Trailhead project has been selected as a recipient of the 2025 Impact100 Greater Sacramento grant and awarded $100,000 in transformational funding.
This project is the capstone of ARC’s more than 15-year effort to establish the 7,000-acre El Dorado Ranch Wildlife Area, the first State Wildlife Area in El Dorado County. Once complete, the property will become the first designated public access point to the Cosumnes River in the Sierra foothills that is a critically important waterway and the only undammed river on the west slope of the Sierra Nevada.
“Creating public access to El Dorado Ranch is one of many important components of our work to protect this remarkable landscape,” said Elena DeLacy, Executive Director of ARC. “Impact100’s support makes it possible to welcome people to hike, explore and connect with the Cosumnes River watershed while fostering a stronger conservation ethic in our community.”
Developed public access along the Cosumnes River is currently extremely limited, with only a few campgrounds in the headwaters and hiking trails near the Delta. There are more than 60 miles between these two points with no designated public access. The new trailhead at El Dorado Ranch would give residents of the greater Sacramento region the first opportunity to experience the “wild” Sierra foothill stretch of the Cosumnes. It also supports the long-term vision shared by ARC and El Dorado County Parks for a regional trail following the Cosumnes River from its headwaters downstream into Sacramento County.
Funding from Impact100 Greater Sacramento will provide the funds needed for grading, drainage and materials for the parking area and trailhead, also interpretive signage design and installation.
In the short-term, the grant will establish safe, legal public access for day-use hiking, wildlife viewing and other passive recreation. In the long
DAY HIKER
Hidden Falls
– A Placer County gem for fall
Before it gets cold, take a trip to Hidden Falls Regional Park. The meadows and flowing creeks make this 1,200acre gem in Placer County a must-visit for day hikers. The well-maintained trails, sturdy bridges and handsome decks provide a fantastic outdoor experience, and the variety of trails ensures that you’ll find yourself returning again and again. Have you visited Hidden Falls?
Share your photos using #DayHikerCA!
Planning your visit
Reservations are required during peak times, so be sure to book in advance. You can make your reservation at Placer County’s Hidden Falls parking reservation page, placer.ca.gov/619/ Hidden-Falls-parkingreservations. Note that COVID-19 restrictions may apply, so check the website for the latest updates.
Parking tips
Parking can be challenging, especially if you arrive after 10 a.m., as the lot fills up quickly. I suggest visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon for the best experience. On my last trek, I went in the afternoon and found a spot in the middle of the main lot. The lighting was perfect for photography, capturing the beauty of the area. During summer, the trails can be hot and dry with much exposure to direct sunlight — bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to explore further.
A rewarding aspect of the hike is finding a swimming hole along Coon Creek. For the best experience, consider hiking while the weather is still mild to fully enjoy the park’s lush greenery.
Trail highlights Hidden Falls is a popular destination,
term, the project will benefit generations by encouraging healthy outdoor activity, reducing illegal trespass in the watershed and strengthening community connections to the land. Research shows that spending time outdoors boosts immunity, enhances mental health, reduces stress and fosters an ethic of stewardship. These are all outcomes this project will help to achieve.
“The American River Conservancy is a powerful example of environmental leadership in our region,”
offering easy to moderate trails suitable for families and those seeking shorter outings. The area’s inner trails, leading directly to the falls, tend to be the busiest. However, if you explore beyond these paths — such as the River Otter Loop — you’ll find quieter sections and enjoy a more peaceful hike with fewer crowds.
These are multi-use trails, so be prepared to share the paths with mountain bikers, horses and occasionally grazing cattle or sheep. It’s all part of the park’s diverse environment and charm.
Respecting the community
The property owners adjacent to the park have expressed concerns about the effects of the increased traffic, and they are not supportive of expansion plans. I encourage all visitors to be respectful of the community, the trails and the neighbors to maintain a positive relationship and preserve the area for future generations.
Park expansion and future plans
An expansion of Hidden Falls Regional Park is expected, which may alleviate some of the parking issues and help the area feel less crowded. This is an exciting development for those who enjoy this beautiful park.
Getting there
• From Interstate 80, head north on Highway 49 toward Grass Valley.
• Turn left on Palm
said Ellen Mallory, Environment Focus chair for Impact100 Greater Sacramento. “Their work protects vital watersheds, ensures biodiversity and inspires the next generation to care for our environment. We are thrilled to recognize them as recipients this year.”
Impact100 Greater Sacramento grant selections were made at the annual Awards Celebration on Sept. 25, where members voted to determine which four nonprofits received funding.
Avenue, then continue on to Mount Vernon, and finally to 7587 Mears Place, Auburn.
Tips for a great hike
• Timing: Arrive early or late to secure parking and avoid peak crowds.
• Trail gear: Bring plenty of water, especially in summer, and consider sunblock and a hat for protection from direct sunlight.
• Respect the Neighbors: Please remember to be courteous to the community and mindful of noise levels and park boundaries.
• Have you discovered a favorite trail or swimming spot at Hidden Falls? Share your stories and tag @ MaryWestHikes!
Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III
(second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes
in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft
Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
Graphic courtesy of ARC
The El Dorado Ranch Trail offers great opportunities to explore ARC land.
Mary West Outdoor columnist
Photos by Mary West
Hidden Falls offers breathtaking scenery from start to finish. Be sure to bring water and a sunhat if hiking in the summer.
