‘AN IMMENSE WILDFIRE CRISIS’
The long season of wildfire awareness, predaredness kicks off
Andrew Vonderschmitt
Features editor
At the kick o for the El Dorado County wildfire awareness season, upward of 20 representatives from state and local agencies convened on the back porch of the American Legion Hall in Placerville. The group had just come from a roundtable discussion, not open to the public, where they tackled the subject of wildfire preparedness or awareness, as the case may be.
A unified strategy to wildfire preparedness, grassroots e orts
toward community resiliency and insurance concerns were top-of-mind topics.
At the top of the press conference Cal Fire State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant said Cal Fire crews had responded to more than 600 wildfires to date this year and praised El Dorado County for “being a role model in wildfire preparedness.”
Berlant further commended the county for “an amazing job of bringing all of the partners together — local, state, federal and tribal.”
Stack Cal Fire firefighters make their way down the driveway after helping extinguish a garage and small wildland fire on Oak Terrace Road in Placerville Saturday afternoon.
Explosion rattles Placerville
Noel Stack Editor
A garage explosion jolted Placerville residents Saturday afternoon, prompting an aggressive response from emergency personnel. Engines from the El Dorado County Fire Protections District, Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District and Cal Fire, along with a water tender and ambulance, descended upon an Oak Terrace Road home around 12:30 p.m. The Engine 25 crew arrived first to find a garage “fully involved” with flames spreading to nearby woodland, according to EDCFPD Division Chief Paul Dutch. The property is heavily
wooded, overlooking the American River Canyon. Flames scorched about a quarter of an acre before crews stopped the fire’s forward momentum roughly 15 minutes after arriving on scene, Dutch said. Neighbor Bryan Vyverberg was one of at least two people who called 911 after the incident.
“I heard two explosions — a small one and a big one,” he told the Mountain Democrat. “I walked out and there was a large, black plume of smoke.”
His call to 911 at 12:27 p.m. was the second to report the incident and Vyverberg said just minutes later he heard first responders arrive. “It all
Another incorporation presentation got more than 100 attendees talking last week about the possible pros and cons of El
Hills becoming a city. Interested residents filled a Patra Corporation conference room and overflowed into the lobby area to listen to the El Dorado Hills Citizens for Cityhood presentation as well as information shared by El Dorado Local Agency Formation Commission Executive O cer Shiva
County officials emerge as
first opponents of new harm reduction legislation
Chris Woodard Staff writer
El Dorado County District Attorney Vern Pierson and El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf released a joint press release to express opposition to Assembly Bill 1037 on April 3.
AB 1037 aims to continue harm reduction efforts by expanding access to clean needles, naloxone and other drug testing tools and shift from abstinence mandates to patient-centered care.
The bill was introduced by Assemblywoman Sade Elhawary, D-Los Angeles, on Feb. 20.
“This legislation will continue to allow the victimization of El Dorado County and the state of California, as hypodermic needles, glass smoking pipes ‘meth/crack pipes’ and other similar drug paraphernalia are distributed without
Frentzen on April 3.
regard to the safety of the public,” states Sheriff Leikauf in the press release.
“The passage of this legislation will only cause a further degradation to the quality of life in El Dorado County and the communities of California.”
According to the press release, AB 1037, if passed, would reduce the power of local governments and restrict their ability to make decisions on the interests of their communities.
EDHCC members Joe Chinn and Chris Nicholson shared an updated PowerPoint outlining incorporation benefits, similar to one first presented at the March 13 El Dorado Hills Community Services District Board of Directors meeting, where directors voted 4-0 to take the lead on this cityhood e ort. Frentzen followed with a presentation about LAFCO’s role and a timeline. EDH cityhood proponents are aiming to get the incorporation question on the November 2026 ballot — an aggressive target considering the steps required.
“Seventy percent of California voters supported Proposition 36 with the stated intent to move away from the decriminalization and continued use by addicts of hard-core drugs,” Pierson notes in the press release. “Harm reduction policy has failed this state.” Both Pierson and Leikauf were guests on the John McGinness Show on April 3 to speak about their opposition. McGinness,
“We’re not operating with a full municipal toolkit,” Nicholson said, referring to the limited scope of the EDHCSD’s operation. “City is a word that means local control.”
Primary advantages of cityhood are more development oversight as well as additional funding for roads and public safety, proponents maintain.
The incorporation process begins with an application to LAFCO — to be discussed and possibly approved by the EDHCSD
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Mountain Democrat
photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
Mountain Democrat photo by Noel
VERN PIERSON JEFF LEIKAUF
ESSENTIALS
OBITUARIES
Bernice Martha Shively
Nov. 12, 1932 – Sept. 8, 2024
In Loving Memory of Bernice Martha Shively. Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, Bernice was Bunny to those who knew her well. She married her sweetheart Alvin Shively, and they shared 65 lovely years together. Bunny was preceded in death by Alvin and her son, Brian Howard Shively. She adored her family and loved the outdoors, camping, gardening, and painting. Her legacy lives on through her 4 children, 3 surviving, 1 foster daughter, 12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren. She is now in the presence of the Lord. Her Celebration of Life will be held on April 10th at 1 PM at Green Valley Church in Placerville.
Jennifer Beth Hutchins
Dec. 29, 1970 – March 15, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jennifer Beth Hutchins. She passed away on March 15 in her home in Placerville with her inseparable companion, her German Shepard Onyx. Jennifer is survived by her daughters, Kendra and Courtney; her father, Jack Memmott; her sisters, Natasha and Samantha; and her granddaughter Kataleya. Jennifer moved to El Dorado County in 1983 with her father and spent the rest of her life in Placerville and El Dorado Hills. She proudly served with the Sacramento Police Department for 15 years, beginning as a dispatcher before becoming a sworn officer in 1995 (Academy Class 94BR1). She retired as a Detective in 2008 and was honored as Detective of the Year in 2000 for her tireless and compassionate work protecting children who had suffered abuse. Even in retirement, Jennifer remained dedicated to justice and public safety. She volunteered her time working on cold cases with a nationwide group, lending her extensive expertise to ongoing investigations. She worked to educate fellow law enforcement, particularly in the areas of behavioral analysis, nonverbal communication, and eliciting confessions from offenders. Jennifer also had a deep love for dogs, and in 2014 she began advocating for and working to provide high-quality, all-weather, full-shift vests for law enforcement and military K9s around the world. Jennifer was also a gifted writer and poet. She found healing and expression through her words and had three poems published during her lifetime. At the time of her passing, she was working on a novel with plans to publish more of her work in the future. Please join us to celebrate the life and legacy of Jennifer Hutchins — a dedicated public servant, a loving mother and daughter, a passionate writer, and a fierce advocate for justice. We will gather to share memories that capture the joy and love she brought to the world. Her memorial will be held at American Legion Post 119, 4561 Greenstone Road, Placerville, CA, on April 12 at 2:00 PM. If you plan to attend, please contact her father Jack at (530) 748-5955 by April 5 so we can make appropriate arrangements.
Norma Bredeson
Dec. 5, 1926 – March 3, 2025
Norma Bredeson passed March 3, 2025 at age of 98. She is survived by sister Rosalee Calvillo of San Diego, CA, daughters, Judy Wettstein of Davis, CA, Patricia Kelly of Rocklin, CA., son Bruce Bredeson of Cambridge, MD, six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her two children Laurie Roulet and Howard Bredeson and sister Lou Ann Wible.
Graduated in 1948 BFA, from U of Illinois/ Champaign Urbana. Married to Duane Bredeson and divorced. Raised five children on her own. Worked as Administrative Secretary for Al Tuttle, Superintendent of Schools, El Dorado County, coordinated Sugar Loaf Art and Music camps every year, Head Start, and was Director for Mother Teresa’s Maternity home. Acted and directed many plays at the Imagination Theater in Placerville, Coloma Theater, and The LDS church. Was a Girl Scout leader with Loie Bonsor and assisted with Cub Scouts. Played piano and organ at various churches, nursing homes and was even in a jazz band.
A celebration of Life will be held: Saturday April 12th @ 1 PM, LDS church, 3275 Cedar Ravine Rd. Placerville.
Remembrances: Imagination Theater: www. itplacerville.org and Mother Teresa Maternity Home: www.motherteresamaternityhome.org
Lucas Aaron Shepard May 11, 1981 – March 14, 2025
In Loving Memory of Lucas “Shep” Shepard Lucas Aaron Shepard, known to most as “Shep,” was born on May 11, 1981, and left us far too soon on Friday, March 14, 2025. A man whose life seemed to stretch beyond the limits of time, Luke filled every moment with purpose — serving others, coaching youth sports, mentoring the next generation, and ensuring those around him felt seen, supported, and safe. His laughter could light up any room, his presence put others at ease, and his heart was an unyielding source of kindness. Luke’s sudden passing leaves a void in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Luke grew up in El Dorado County and loved the community. He spent his formative years in Pollock Pines attending local schools and graduating from El Dorado High School. Luke worked various jobs where he came to know the community. He was known for his genuine and caring personality throughout his younger years. This personality only grew as he became an adult.
Luke answered his calling of service as he began his career with the El Dorado County Fire Protection District in March 2006 as an Apprentice Firefighter. In May 2007, he graduated from the Sacramento Regional Fire Academy Class 07-1 and quickly distinguished himself as a Firefighter Paramedic of exceptional skill and unwavering dedication. His rise through the ranks was not just a testament to his technical expertise, but also to his leadership, compassion, and commitment to public safety. In April 2021, he earned the role of Fire Captain and Prevention Specialist, where his passion for fire safety education flourished. By December 2024, he had achieved the rank of Fire Marshal / Division Chief, cementing his legacy as a lifelong protector of lives and property. As a leader, Luke never asked anyone to do something he wouldn’t do himself, always leading by example and with integrity.
Yet, for all his professional accomplishments, it was the quieter, everyday moments that truly defined Luke. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 14 years, a proud father, and a friend to all. Luke was ever-present on the sidelines and baseball diamonds of his three sons’ sports teams, and church community. Luke had a strong belief in developing those who would take his place of servitude. His passion for coaching and mentorship, and belief in every child’s potential stemmed from his core beliefs. Luke was a pivotal part of the men’s ministry at his church, delivering his testimony of God’s impact in his life. Luke had a remarkable sense of humor — one that could bring a smile to anyone’s face, even in the most di cult moments. His timing was impeccable, often delivering a well-timed joke or a clever remark that could lighten the mood and make everyone around him feel at ease. His ability to blend humor with empathy made him not just a great colleague, but a friend whose presence was always a source of comfort and joy.
Luke leaves behind his beloved wife and three sons, who will forever carry his legacy in their hearts. His passing is deeply felt by an entire community, that has lost not only a guardian and a mentor, but also a friend who truly made a di erence in the lives of those around him. Though his time with us was far too short, the echoes of his laughter, the lessons he taught, and the lives he touched will endure.
A memorial service will be held on April 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Hills Church in El Dorado Hills. This service is open to the public, a reflection of the fact that Lucas Shepard was not just a hero to his family and colleagues, but a pillar of the entire community he selflessly served.
Nola Joanne Scalzi
Oct. 29, 1950 – Oct. 15, 2024
Nola Joanne Scalzi, a longtime resident of the Western slope of El Dorado County born on October 29, 1950 at the LDS hospital in Idaho Falls, ID, died on October 15, 2024, on her way to Mercy Folsom Hospital after su ering cardiac issues during dialysis.
Nola was preceded in death by her parents, Everett Smith and Sonja Smith of Idaho Falls, ID, as well as her husband, David Scalzi, of Pollock Pines, and brother Eric Smith. She leaves her sister, Joy Santos of Meyers, sisters in law Raeona Smelser of Sutter Creek, Debbie Bean of Jackson, children Elyse Quick of Reno and Duran Quick of El Dorado Hills, nine nieces and nephews and eight grand nieces and nephews. Nola was preceded in death by the joy and sparkle of her life, her granddaughter Brookelyn Quick.
Edward Rey Bouma
Jan. 14, 1994 – March 17, 2025
Edward Rey Bouma, born on January 14, 1994, passed away at home on March 17, 2025 at the age of 31. Eddie is survived by his loving family: his mother, Billie; father and stepmother, Brent and Val; sister, Taylor; and brother, Cole. He had a passion for sports at a young age, and was a natural in all he played. Growing up, Eddie loved to ride dirt bikes, go golfing, skateboard at the parks, snowboard on the mountains, surf in the ocean, ride wake boards on the lakes and fish in the rivers. Known for his quiet yet goofy personality, Eddie had a contagious laugh that everyone loved and could recognize in a crowded room. He loved his friends and had such a big heart. He was fiercely loyal and always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone that needed it. Eddie was special and will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A celebration of Eddie’s life will be held on Saturday May 3, starting at 2PM at the Pleasant Valley Community Grange, located at 4765 Pleasant Valley Grange Rd, Placerville, CA 95667. Family and friends are welcome to join in honoring Eddie’s memory.
Dudley Newton IV
Jan. 20, 1937 – March 6, 2025
Born in 1937 to Eleanor and Dudley Newton III in Newhall, California. Dudley was proceeded in death by his wife of 62 years, Judy, and is survived by his daughters, Tammy Newton, Teri Schmidt (Tracy) and granddaughters, Jacklyn Mulkey (Grant) and Andrea Schmidt.
Dudley served in the Navy Reserves and in his early career worked at Vandenberg Motors in Sacramento. After marrying his beloved wife Judy in 1961 and starting a family, he joined the County of Sacramento in 1968 as a Senior Maintenance Mechanic, enjoying a long a successful career.
Dudley and Judy moved to El Dorado, California in 1993 prior to his retirement in 1997. Dudley continued to pursue his love of the outdoors and all things with an engine by camping in his favorite spots along the California coast and Nevada desert, riding his UTV, driving his VW Things, and parading his antique tractors with the Yolo Power Association, Chapter 158 of National Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association.
Dianne Ettlich
July 30, 1938 – March 19, 2025
In Loving Memory of Dianne Ettlich.
Alice Dianne Lawton, known to many as Dianne, Mom, and Grammy passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025, in Folsom, CA. Dianne was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grammy, and friend, whose love and laughter touched many. Her smile drew people toward her, and if you knew her, you loved her. Dianne was born in 1938, to Richard and Alice Lawton. She graduated from Oregon State University (OSU), earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. While achieving her degree, she fell in love with and eventually became the cherished wife of William Fred Ettlich. They shared nearly 67 beautiful years together, full of love and lasting memories. Dianne is also survived by her daughter, Pam Tenorio, her son, Daniel Ettlich and wife Jenna, and eight adoring grandchildren, ranging in age from 10 to 23. Her family was at the center of her life and her love for them was obvious in all she did.
Dianne’s passions were abundant. She found delight in the gift of being outside, enjoying hiking, canoeing and camping when she was younger; sitting in the sun reading and relaxing; and spending countless hours with her family and friends at Lake Almanor. Her faith in Jesus was foundational and she was an active member for 50 years of the Federated Church in Placerville, CA, where she found lifelong friendships. Dianne loved to bake and bless others with food and goodies, and she loved to grow and enjoy the beauty of fresh flowers. She also loved attending and listening to musicals. And oh – how she loved a picnic!
Dianne was incredibly compassionate. She gave her heart and time to helping others, whether at a food bank or clothes closet, reviewing essays and scholarship applications for students, or helping friends in need. She was a woman of grace, kindness, and warmth... sprinkled with a bit of sass and a sparkly smirk. She was fully present and available for whatever you brought her way, and incredibly forgiving.
Nola worked in many managerial aspects during her career, primarily managing pediatric o ces which enabled her to watch many children of El Dorado County grow up through the years. She could tackle any task, and was a mean bookkeeper with her yellow pads and pencils abound. She loved exploring the high desert and ghost towns, as well as the occasional casino on her and David’s travels. She was an avid dog lover and had her own special language she used to communicate with dogs near and far. She will be missed greatly by those lives she touched. She loved giving advice with a smile, and lived by the mantra, “You make your own life”. Services will be private.
Words cannot sufficiently capture the light in Dianne’s soul, but she’s given us a legacy to model after: love, kindness, devotion, and happiness. Dianne, Mom, Grammy will be deeply missed. A memorial service is planned for Saturday, May 31st at 2 PM at Federated Church in Placerville, CA. The family invites all who knew Dianne to join them in remembering her.
Dianne was an active member and supporter of AAUW, the American Association of University Women. Donations in Dianne’s honor in lieu of flowers or other gifts can be made to AAUW to support her passion for advocating for women and girls in their goals of higher education.
DON’T MISS
Mountain Democrat and Village Life
County leaders take a close look at strategy
Jo Carrerow Mountain Democrat corresopndent
The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors had a few recommendations for the 2025 Strategic Plan with their eyes on safety, promoting business and historical preservation.
Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Laura Schwartz recently presented the draft annual strategic plan for review with the categories of Safe and Healthy Communities, Public Infrastructure, Workforce Excellence, Thriving Economy and Strategic Innovation.
The strategic plan reads like a school workbook. Each category includes a priority or goal, a related task or action item, who or what department will take the lead on the task, the timeframe to complete, progress and a new timeframe.
to have a comment on how (our decisions) are going to affect existing businesses,” Ferrero reiterated.
District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp said he agreed with Ferrero’s assessment of the recent tobacco sales regulations which were backpedaled in March after the board heard about the negative effects on businesses.
“There was quite a loss of sales tax and that’s one of the areas we’re weak in,” Veerkamp said.
The balance didn’t happen when the board first voted on it, he said, and that’s why the board had to return and amend it.
“It’s on us to try to make our framework fit and ask ourselves those questions,” he said. “(When there’s a new business) we need to make sure that our planning and so forth has the right resources to move it ahead in a good fashion and get it done. Because, otherwise, with a lot of these projects, they take forever and the market’s gone.”
El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Debbie Manning agreed with Ferrero.
Examples include, under the Strategic Innovation categories it’s recommended the county “develop solutions through leveraging of technology,” which has the priority that “law enforcement and emergency responders ... use existing social media and applications and pursue in-house technology development to aid engagement with the public on community concerns and safety standards.”
District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin suggested, with the upcoming wildfire season, they should do a test of the county alert system since many people may have changed their phones or emails since the last alert.
“It’s a critical component that often fails,” Parlin said.
“There are plans in the works to do the testing,” Schwartz said.
“I do think that is a good idea to add that to the strategic plan,” she added.
District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero said he thought that under Thriving Economy there should be a focus area considering the effects on businesses during the board’s decision-making process.
“The current budget is the direct result of sales taxes,” Ferrero said. “In order for the county to thrive, our businesses need to thrive, and I would like to see something in there or more to bring to our attention where we are as a board considering the impacts on business when making our decisions.”
“At minimum, we do agree with Supervisor Ferrero that maybe before (items) are included in staff reports on votes that do affect your business community, Economic Development does weigh in (to say) is this a negative or positive or neutral effect on business,” Manning shared. “Because it seems the road that we’re on is not a road that’s healthy for the business community.”
Along the same lines, Pollock Pines resident Leo Bennett Koshan said in regards to Transient Occupancy Tax revenue being used for things other than tourism, “There’s a lot of unintended consequences to external stakeholders and I hope you look at all those pieces.”
Historical preservation had not been included in the 2024 mission or vision statements and two county residents said they objected to that.
“I care about historical preservation,” said Kris Payne, adding that he feels it’s been “diluted” in the strategic plan. “The museum’ has been closed for three months, four months and the county museum is the center of historical preservation within El Dorado County. I have to feel like that’s not consistent with our strategic plan.”
“Don’t we do that now?” Parlin asked.
“Not really,” Ferrero replied, indicating when the previous board discussed the tobacco ordinance in October.
“The focus was on one thing — prevention of kids from smoking,” he said. “We didn’t take into consideration the impacts it would have on business.
“It might be something as simple as any agenda item that comes on maybe have Economic Development review it and just make it a one-liner — ‘hey, it’s going to negatively affect business or it’s going to positively affect business or it’s unknown,” Ferrer continued. “We need to help business succeed if we want to succeed.”
“The way you’re talking, quality of life is not considered,” Parlin replied. “If there’s not a balance, what are we doing here?”
“But I don’t think it can hurt
“It seems more and more every time we do this, we go away from our historic heritage,” Sue Taylor said. “I feel like this board works for the developers. I’ve been doing this for 15 years trying to get you to care about our rural communities. All I see is a great amount of work went into developing the general plan. Now we have a board that’s just running over that.”
Parlin moved to approve the draft strategic plan with a change to the Our Vision section to include the words “historical heritage.” In its entirety it will read: “Exceptional quality of life with a strong sense of community, historical heritage, rural character, managed growth, and opportunity for all.”
Veerkamp seconded the motion which passed 4-1, with Ferrero voting “no.” All supervisors were present including Parlin, Veerkamp, Ferrero, First Vice Chair Brooke Laine, District 5, and Chair George Turnboo, District 2.
of local control over how we do this type of enforcement,” Pierson maintained. “It is not compassionate to let somebody stick a needle in their arm over and over again.”
Leikauf expressed concern that the proposed legislation affects the most vulnerable population — the unhoused — and noted the use of fire and heat to utilize the tools given by harm reduction policies is a real threat.
“It takes a torch to heat these up to a certain temperature for these to work,” Leikauf said on the McGinness show. “We implemented a fire captain into our OES last year and he tracked it, and we had 28 fires in El Dorado County that were associated with our most vulnerable population, the people who are in shelters.” Pierson said to the state of California during the McGinness show, “We’re better at dealing with this problem than you are.”
“[AB 1037] will make it far more difficult for us to have any type
This is not the first time El Dorado County leaders have opposed harm reduction measures. The county is currently at the center of a lawsuit filed by California Attorney General Rob Bonta for banning drug needle exchange programs in the community.
The California Society of Addiction Medication supports AB 1037 and argues that reducing the barrier to accessing substance use disorder services must be prioritized; this bill will widen the accessibility of these services.
AB 1037 was referred to the Assembly Committees on Health and Judiciary on March 10. No further update on its progress is available at this time.
OPINION
California Matters
If zero-emission cars cut gasoline sales and tax revenue, how will the state replace them?
When California motorists
fill their tanks, they are often paying the nation’s highest gas prices, an average of $4.65 a gallon currently and about $1.50 above the national average.
One component of California’s high gas prices is the state’s gas tax, which ranges between 60 and 70 cents a gallon and is also the nation’s highest. The 10-cent range reflects di erences on how indirect levies for climate change policies are calculated.
Eight years ago the Legislature and then-Gov. Jerry Brown enacted a big increase in gas taxes and license fees that raises more than $5 billion a year for rehabilitation and maintenance. However, Californians drive nearly a billion miles a day and conditions of the state’s more than 400,000 lane-miles of highways, streets and roads remain among the nation’s worst — 49th among the states, according to a recent study by a libertarian think tank.
The interplay of gas prices, gas taxes and roadway conditions is a perennial political football.
Gov. Gavin Newsom periodically blames greedy oil companies for high prices while refiners cite the state’s unique smog-fighting fuel recipes, a tangled regulatory climate and California’s overall high costs of doing business. Republicans accuse Newsom of grandstanding and have proposed to reduce taxes as a way of easing prices, to no avail. The 2017 tax and fee package survived a GOP-backed e ort to repeal it via a ballot measure the following year.
Earlier this year, the Legislature’s majority Democrats blocked a Republican-sponsored bill that would have halted expansion of the low carbon fuel program that, they said, would raise gas prices by as much as 65 cents a gallon.
So, in a nutshell, that’s the state of the political infighting over gas prices, but what of the future?
The state wants to ban the sale of gas-powered cars by 2035 as a major step toward converting the 30-plus million vehicles on the state’s roads to electricity or hydrogen power, thereby eliminating the largest single source of emissions a ecting climate while erasing gas purchases and gallonagebased tax revenues.
A few days after the Assembly blocked the GOP e ort to freeze the low carbon fuel program, the Legislature’s two transportation committees delved into the e ects of reduced gas purchases and gas tax
Guest Column
On April 1 the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors had a clear opportunity to show leadership and respect the will of the people — and they chose not to. Despite multiple public speakers, including members of the El Dorado County Taxpayers Association, clearly and respectfully requesting that Items 7 and 8 be pulled from the consent calendar, the board ignored those voices. This wasn’t about delay or politics. It was about transparency — about honoring the spirit of voter-approved Section 504. Section 504 was established with a clear and honorable purpose: to ensure that our men and women on the street — specifically deputy sheri I and II classifications — received competitive, stable compensation. It was a safeguard, approved by voters, to help El Dorado County retain frontline law enforcement o cers
Letters to the Editor
Don’t allow EDH to decline
EDITOR:
While it is discouraging to see the discord in the El Dorado Hills Community Services District and the disagreements between board members that have a negative e ect on the ability of the board to make decision, the accomplishments of the sta in continuing to deliver the very high quality of services to the community should not be overlooked.
Drive by Saratoga Park and see the overflow of kids and parents using the new and revolutionary kids’ park. Visit the day or night activities occurring at Promontory Park involving hundreds of kids in a single day — baseball, soccer, softball — all available because of the dedicated members of the CSD sta .
Pass by the Community Center and pause a minute to watch the activity on the athletic fields, the swimming pool, the swarm of young people (and in some cases, not so young) filling the multiuse gym. The Teen Center located near the south parking lot provides a haven for young people after
school. Or take your dog to the dog park. It’s there.
Attend annual events at the center such as Trunk or Treat on Halloween, National Night Out, evening concerts and myriad of other events available through CSD that provide community spirit and contribute to the quality of life in El Dorado Hills.
Drop in at the Seniors’ Valentine Day dance where 175-plus seniors recaptured their glory days or go to the Senior Center any week day and observe older citizens seeking lunch, companionship and participating in activities.
These are all within a stone’s throw of my residence and I know there are many others spread across the district in every neighborhood.
The sta should be saluted and given a standing ovation for their e orts in continuing to provide all these things, even with the squabbling of the leaders of the district which, if unchecked, will lead to mass defections of sta and low morale for any who chose not to abandon ship.
The relentless criticism by residents who attack
and insulate them from political interference during times of sta ng challenges.
But over the years, instead of keeping 504 focused on its original mission, county o cials have steadily expanded the section’s reach — quietly attaching more and more classifications to its benefits, far beyond what voters intended.
And when the public asked for that expansion to be explained, the board chose silence.
Let’s be very clear: 488 employees (that’s 25% of county employees) currently receive the benefits of Section 504 — either through direct attachment or via memoranda of understanding and internal compensation policies. And yet, only 135 of them are deputy sheri I or II, the classifications 504 was specifically created to protect. Items 7 and 8 directly a ect or expand this structure, impacting not just frontline law enforcement, but a growing range of
administrative, legal and management roles. With the board’s action on April 1, that number will rise even further despite no public discussion.
The following classifications are impacted, with specific language establishing their linkage:
1. Deputy Sheri I/II — Section 504 of the County Charter: “Shall be compensated at a level competitive with similar positions in comparable counties.”
2. Sheri — County resolution: “The elected Sheri shall receive 5% more than the Undersheri .”
3. Undersheri — County resolution: “The Undersheri shall receive 10% more than the top step of Deputy Sheri II.”
4. Chief Administrative O cer — Current salary policy: “The CAO shall receive 5% more than the elected Sheri .”
5. County Counsel — Salary alignment: “County Counsel shall be compensated at the same level as the District Attorney.”
6. District Attorney investigators — MOU language: “Shall receive compensation equivalent to
comparable classifications in the Sheri ’s O ce.”
7. Public Defender senior investigators — MOU language: “Shall be compensated no less than equivalent EDSO investigative classifications.”
8. County attorneys — MOU language: “Shall be compensated at a level consistent with legal professionals performing comparable duties in law enforcement environments.”
9. Administrative analysts and managers — MOU language: “Salary range shall maintain parity with internal classifications impacted by Section 504, such as DA investigators and Sheri analysts.”
10. IT supervisors and senior technologists — Policy reference: “Shall be adjusted to maintain consistency with similarly classified roles in departments with law enforcement functions.”
11. Public information o cers — Administrative policy: “Shall maintain a salary range in parity with Administrative Analyst III, which is
LEE TANNENBAUM
DAN WALTERS
Gorden, Golobic, Kinney and Peter score wins
Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway
Dominic Gorden got by Andy Forsberg on lap two and led the remaining distance to snag his second career Thompson’s Winged Sprint Car triumph at Placerville Speedway on Saturday.
Gorden’s win came aboard the familiar Fortitude Driver Development/Silva’s Natural Beef No. 10 mount. He was joined in victory lane by Shane Golobic with the BCRA/ WMR/USAC Midgets, Hunter Kinney with the BCRA Lightning Sprints and Ryan Peter with the Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks.
Opening night winner Forsberg led the initial lap of the Thompson’s
Family of Dealerships
Winged Sprint Car feature on Saturday. Gorden wasted little time blasting his way into the top spot however, and after that he kept the 20-car field at bay.
Gorden, who earned his first career Placerville Speedway win last August during the Forni-Humphreys Classic, motored off to grab the checkered flag after 25-laps of racing. Forsberg brought home a runner-up finish while fending off youngster Austin Wood during the later stages of the contest. Wood crossed the stripe in third, followed by Max Mittry and Tony Gomes in the top five. The race for second through fifth
provided some of the most entertainment during the main event. Rounding out the top 10 were Chance Grasty, Josh Young, Shane Hopkins, Joey Ancona and Tanner Carrick. A healthy 35 car field was in action for the Prospectors Pursuit on Saturday. Jodie Robinson began the evening by earning the ADCO Driveline & Custom Exhaust Fast Time Award with a blistering lap of 10.581. Shane Golobic prevailed in Saturday night’s inaugural running of the new BCRA/WMR California Super Series, topping a 25-car turnout in the event co-sanctioned by the USAC Avanti Windows & Doors Western States Midgets.
TJ Smith took the lead into turn one with Golobic sliding into second. 2024 BCRA Midget champion Caden Sarale of Stockton drove underneath Broedy Graham of Bakersfield for third on the second lap down the backstretch.
Smith led Golobic into lapped traffic before a red flag for Graham flipping in turn one. 15-year-old Jett Yantis of Bakersfield challenged Sarale for third on the restart. Golobic drove to the inside of Smith to challenge for the lead on lap 11 but was unable to make the pass down the backstretch. Dale Johnston of Olivehurst flipped in turn one for the next stoppage on lap 13.
then completed the pass on lap 15 in turn 4. Golobic sailed to a three second advantage to win the inaugural race for the BCRA/WMR Super Series, co-sanctioned by USAC.
Citrus Heights racer Hunter Kinney put on a clinic with the Bay Cities Racing Association Lightning Sprints on Saturday. Kinney was dominant aboard the Savage Racing No. 3f during the program and led every lap en route to the win.
Golobic charged to the outside of Smith on the restart. He led by a nose down the front stretch to lead lap 14,
Defending series champion Greg Dennett tallied a runner-up finish ahead of Jake Morgan, Dakota Albright and Matt Land. Just like Kinney, Rio Linda’s Ryan Peter was ultra impressive with the Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks at the Prospectors Pursuit. Tommy Sturgeon led the opening circuit until
Peter charged by for the top spot on lap two. He had his way with things up front, as six-time track champion Nick Baldwin moved his way forward. Baldwin got into second with 14 laps complete and looked to challenge the leader. Peter was calm, cool and collected up front though, and crossed the Ron Stahl checkered flag for his fourth career Pure Stock victory at Placerville Speedway. Baldwin, Jason Palmer, Kevin Jinkerson and Tyler Lightfoot completed the top five. Placerville Speedway continues its 60th anniversary season this Saturday, April 12, with the Tilford Tribute race. On hand will be the Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models, the Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks, the Mountain
Cowboys, cowgirls hit the trail for Gold Country rodeo
News release
AUBURN — For the 94th year, the world’s best cowboys and girls are converging on the Gold Country Fairgrounds in Auburn to compete and perform at the Gold Country Pro Rodeo, April 11-13.
The rodeo again offers a full slate of ropin’, wrasslin’ and ridin’. With events for cowboys (bronc and bull riding, team roping), cowgirls (barrel races) and kids (mutton bustin’) and a prize pool of over $30,000, most of the world’s best rodeo athletes are lined up to compete and perform. There are also world-class performances emceed by the incomparable Dalton Morris, Rodeo Entertainer extraordinaire. Dalton would be nothing without the best animals and riders around and will be joined by the Flying U Rodeo Company as well as their motocross freestyle daredevils, the Flying Cowboyz stunt performers.
Morris, a third-generation rodeo entertainer, has been captivating audiences nationwide since discovering his passion for performing at the age of three. Known for his humor and impressive trick roping skills, which he began honing in high school, Morris’ dedication to his craft and ability to connect with all ages have made him a beloved figure in the rodeo world. Rodeo-goers eagerly anticipate his performances. Morris’ energy and skill bring a dynamic presence to every event. He has an incredible ability to connect with the audience and leave a lasting impression. Whether performing at rodeos, horse shows, or bull-riding events, Morris’ goal is to engage and entertain, making each event unforgettable.
The Flying U Cowboys are led by rodeo legends in the Rosser family, a name that has become synonymous with quality rodeo production. The Rosser family has long been known for outstanding rodeo productions,
including the flamboyant opening ceremonies presented at the National Finals Rodeo, the Houston Livestock Show and the Grand National Rodeo in San Francisco just to name a few. Rodeo is show business as far as they are concerned. As a result, the Rossers always bring a sense of pageantry and color that never fails to thrill and entrance their audiences.
Many of this year’s rodeo athletes travel a long way just to compete in the Gold Country Event. And so do the cowpokes who attend. The rodeo has come a long way, too, in its 94 years. It now hosts more than 13,000 attendees, great food, vendors and world class entertainment annually. This year, with the fan-favorite Friday night rodeo performance, the 2025 competition and festivities are sure to delight the rodeo’s biggest attendance ever.
The official rodeo kick-off event will be held on Thursday, April 10, at Auburn Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, 6-8 p.m. At his family-friendly event, fans of all ages can enjoy food, fun, live music and enter and/ or enjoy a Dolly Parton look-a-like contest. They can also sign up their kids younger than 12 to compete in “dummy” roping, always a big hit with rodeo attendees and this year the $25 entry fees are waived thanks to underwriting by Borden Signature Properties, a member of the local Auburn business community.
“The Gold Country Pro Rodeo is a big deal for all of Placer County. It brings people from as far away as Redding and the Bay Area, in addition to the great support it receives from the residents right here in Auburn,” said Darlene Lyons, whose company, EzEvents has promoted the rodeo for 10-plus years. “Auburn gets some of the best pro rodeo athletes in the country. It’s a big economic boon for the business community and that community has never failed to give back by supporting and promoting local charities and causes.”
Photos courtesy of Tim Holland
Midget car driver Shane Golobic, left, prevailed in Saturday night’s inaugural running of the new BCRA/WMR California Super Series at Placerville Speedway. Dominic Gorden, right, celebrates his victory at Placerville Speedway on April 5.
IRS-CI issues alert about tax season fraud schemes
News release
OAKLAND — With less than a week to go before the federal tax filing deadline, IRS Criminal Investigation Oakland Field O ce urges taxpayers and return preparers to be on the lookout for fraud schemes that could compromise their bank accounts and personal information, as well as the U.S. tax system.
Ongoing fraud schemes include:
• Criminals creating fictitious estates and trusts to generate fraudulent refunds.
• New client scams where cyber criminals impersonate new, potential clients to trick tax preparers into responding to their emails. Once the preparer responds, the scammer sends a malicious attachment or URL that can compromise the preparer’s computer systems and allow the attacker to access sensitive client information.
• Tax schemes, some on social media, that encourage taxpayers to file fraudulent returns featuring inaccurate income, false withholdings or fake credits. Taxpayers are ultimately responsible for ensuring that information is accurate on their tax returns.
U.S. taxpayers should:
• Protect their wallets and their identities by ensuring they don’t respond to unsolicited emails, phone calls or texts claiming to be the IRS.
• Choose reputable tax return preparers who sign and enter their preparer tax identification number on tax forms and don’t promise excessive refunds.
• Rely on IRS.gov for answers to questions about tax forms and eligibility for credits and deductions.
IRS-CI dedicates nearly 70% of its time and resources to investigating tax crimes that include questionable refund schemes, return preparer fraud, abusive tax schemes and more. In fiscal year 2024, IRS-CI initiated 1,373 tax crime investigations and identified $2.12 billion in tax fraud. Six hundred fifteen defendants were
Speedway Continued from A8
Democrat Mini Trucks and the West Coast Pro Stocks.
Results Winged Sprint Cars: 1. 10-Dominic Gorden; 2. 92-Andy Forsberg; 3. 2A-Austin Wood; 4. 2XM-Max Mittry; 5. 7C-Tony Gomes; 6. X1-Chance Grasty; 7. 17J-Josh Young; 8. 21-Shane Hopkins; 9. 88A-Joey Ancona; 10. 83T-Tanner Carrick; 11. 17-Anthony Snow; 12. 7-Ashton Torgerson; 13. 14W-Jodie Robinson; 14. 94R-Ryan Rocha; 15. 61-Travis Labat; 16. 57B-Bobby Butler; 17. 13-Elijah Gile; 18. 88-Austin Torgerson; 19. 93-Stephen Ingraham; 20. 94-Greg Decaires V. Midget Super Series: 1. 17W-Shane Golobic; 2. 68-TJ Smith; 3. 32T-Tanner Carrick; 4. 32-Caden Sarale; 5. 4-Jett Yantis; 6. 00-Jake Andreotti; 7. 14-Connor Speir; 8. 50-Dane Culver; 9. 9-Anthony Bruno; 10. 18-Todd Hawse; 11.
sentenced to an average of 27 months in prison for tax crimes during this same timeframe.
Recent case examples
In September, Miguel Martinez, a 39-year-old Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, was sentenced to six years in prison for leading a $25 million tax fraud scheme. From 2019 to 2023, he used stolen identities to create fake businesses and file hundreds of fraudulent tax returns, resulting in $2.3 million in improper refunds. Martinez worked with others, including a tax preparer and a former IRS examiner, paying them for assistance in evading fraud detection. When arrested, authorities found $750,000 in fraudulent checks, over 200 stolen identities and firearms he was not legally allowed to possess. He initially lied to investigators about his involvement, but evidence contradicted his claims, leading to his conviction.
In December, Richard Jason Mountford, formerly of Monterey County, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for conspiring to file false tax claims against the U.S. government. From 2016 to 2020, he and a co-conspirator submitted fraudulent tax returns using their own names and stolen identities, falsely claiming nearly $875,000 in refunds. Mountford used the stolen funds to buy luxury cars and distributed cash and gold bars to his accomplice. In addition to his prison term, he was ordered to serve one year of supervised release and pay $757,075.53 in restitution.
IRS-CI is the law enforcement arm of the IRS, responsible for conducting financial crime investigations, including tax fraud, narcotics tra cking, money-laundering, public corruption, healthcare fraud, identity theft and more. IRS-CI special agents are the only federal law enforcement agents with investigative jurisdiction over violations of the Internal Revenue Code, obtaining a 90% federal conviction rate. The agency has 20 field o ces located across the U.S. and 14 attaché posts abroad.
57-Blaine Craft; 12. 7A-Ryan Carter; 13. 15-Adam Weisberg; 14. 51-Brody Fuson; 15. 2ND-Kelly Nichols; 16. 20J-Dale Johnston; 17. 35S-Teddy Bivert; 18. 77-Dave Stoltz; 19. 66-Broedy Graham; 20. 96X-Logan Mitchell.
BCRA Lightning Sprints: 1. 3F-Hunter Kinney; 2. 47-Greg Dennett; 3. 51-Jake Morgan; 4. 35JR-Dakota Albright; 5. 91-Matt Land; 6. 18-Josef Ferolito; 7. 00-Bradley Schmidt; 8. 22-Jason Schostag; 9. 9-Scott Kinney; 10. 12-Kindal Barstow; 11. 51K-Kennedy Ramirez; 12. 31-Cody Dayton; 13. 19-Kaleb Ferolito.
Pure Stocks: 1. 83-Ryan Peter; 2. 17-Nick Baldwin; 3. 22K-Jason Palmer; 4. 30-Kevin Jinkerson; 5. 23-Tyler Lightfoot; 6. 08-Colton Arbogast; 7. 54-Anthony Vigna; 8. 48-John Evans; 9. 16-Tommy Sturgeon; 10. 10-Thomas Jensen; 11. (DQ) 29-Dan Jinkerson.
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tied to law enforcement benchmarks.”
12. Budget and fiscal managers — Compensation structure: “Compensation shall be set at a level that reflects operational oversight of departments with 504-impacted classifications.”
13. Facilities and fleet managers — Policy language: “Pay structure shall align with administrative operations managers receiving adjustments via law enforcement comparison groups.”
14. Executive assistants and admin coordinators — Administrative memo: “Position is tied to department head compensation; any movement in department head salary shall trigger a proportional review.”
15. Parole and correctional o cers – senior management only — MOU language: “Correctional Captain and Chief Probation O cer salaries shall be set at levels commensurate with EDSO command classifications.”
Note: Front-line correctional o cers are not explicitly tied to Section 504. To make matters worse, County Administrative O cer Ti any Schmid
COMICS
■ SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
■ RUBES by Leigh
■ SPEED
attempted to downplay public concern by claiming that these classifications “aren’t really attached to 504.” That statement directly contradicts county documents, sta reports and memoranda of understanding, which clearly establish both direct and formulaic links to 504 and to EDSO pay structures.
The public asked for transparency. The board responded with silence. The public asked for accountability. The board responded with rubberstamping.
The El Dorado County Taxpayers Association will continue to advocate for responsible government, fiscal clarity and restoring Section 504 to its original intent — narrowly focused on Deputy Sheri I/II classifications. What happened at the BOS meeting April 1 wasn’t an April Fool’s joke and was not democracy in action. It was bureaucracy in retreat. And the taxpayers deserve better.
Lee Tannenbaum is president of the El Dorado County Taxpayers Association.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Some cannot seem to recognize the magni cence of a thing until it’s gone— not you. You’re feeling the magic in real time. You’re capturing snapshots in your mind and in your phone, too, because the golden shine of the moment is not lost on you.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). What gets ful lled will feel so right, aligning e ortlessly like it was always meant to be. What doesn’t align should be quickly written o and forgotten, not as a loss but as a redirection. This is one of those things that slips away simply to make room for something better.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). To grasp at the door as it closes is to risk a pinched nger. Stand back to observe the momentum of things you don’t control. Life respects the observers. Patterns will be revealed, allowing you to move with timely grace.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). Primal connection is based in chemistry and instinct. It ignites and pulls you in without e ort. And while primal connection counts for a lot in relationships, sustainability— which is about safety, trust and consistency— counts for more.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). If your days are packed yet feel strangely empty, your schedule may be full of activity but lacking in soul nourishment. Change the focus, seek di erent company, and try fresh environments. You’ll soon nd a better match for what you need to thrive. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). “Good” and “bad” can be overly simplistic labels, especially when decisions exist in complex, shifting contexts. The “bad” move in one moment could lead to something unexpectedly bene cial later. It’s better to think in terms of what works or doesn’t.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Using poor habits to cope with life can be like borrowing relief at a stupidly high interest rate. You deserve better coping mechanisms, ones that don’t punish you after. Real relief doesn’t come with a price tag.
SCORPIO (Oct.
Rubin
BUMP by Dave Coverly
Tannenbaum
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
April 9
El Dorado Hills Newcomers Club presents Wine, Women, Wellness, an afternoon featuring a panel of local women’s healthcare experts providing tips on women’s wellbeing. Open to members and non-members, the event will be held 3-6 p.m. at Serrano Country Club. Registration and payment are required by April 2. To attend, send an email to EDHWellness25@gmail.com.
The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville will host Connections and Cocktails: A Green RoomOpen House + Mixer + Fundraiser from 5-7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
HWY 50 Brewery in Camino will host Music Bingo at 6 p.m. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/ live-music.
Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents the Preservation Hall Jazz Band at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
April 10
Patrick Walsh will perform, 7-9 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Mills Station Arts and Culture Center in Rancho Cordova presents the Student Art Show featuring art from K-12 Rancho Cordova students The show is on view through April 26. For more information visit rcmacc.org.
April 11
Join The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for the Walk with Christ, that takes visitors on a walk through the last days of Jesus Christ’s life. The event will be from 5-8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday at 3431 Hacienda Drive, Cameron Park. Each small group will journey together through eight speci c acts and milestones of Christ’s nal days. Please allow at least 45 minutes to fully experience the walk.
The David Outlaw Band with special guest Jonny Mojo will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Kirk Basquez will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
The Sacramento Fine Arts Center in Carmichael presents Art Trivia Night at 6:30 p.m. Museum opens at 11 a.m. daily, closed Mondays. For more information visit sac nearts.org.
Broadway At Music Circus presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at 7 p.m. at the UC Davis Health pavilion in Sacramento. The show runs through April 17. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.
The Orestis Koletsos Greek Ensemble presents East Meets West: Blending Cultures through Greek Music at 7:15 p.m. at The So a in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
Emery Entertainment
Full bowls fight hunger
EMPTY BOWLS DINNER RAISES NEARLY $20,000
Karen Brown
Hands4Hope – Youth Making a Di erence
The Placerville Empty Bowls Dinner, a cherished community event for 25 years, was led for the second year by youth from Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Di erence on March 8. The event raised nearly $20,000 to support four nonprofit organizations combating hunger. Held at the historic Forni Building at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, the 25th Placerville Empty Bowls Dinner welcomed approximately 600 guests of all ages. Each guest received a unique handmade ceramic bowl that they then filled with their choice of soup, served along with fresh bread. Guests enjoyed lively music by Coloma Celtic; browsed vendor booths selling handmade crafts, art, jewelry and loaves of bread; and selected from a myriad of baked treats like cookies, bars and cupcakes for dessert.
Planning began in November, led by an after-school committee of 16 middle and high school students from Folsom to Placerville, with guidance from 10 adult mentor volunteers. Early on in the planning process, committee participants divided into seven subcommittees, each led by a youth leader, to manage di erent aspects of the event.
On the night of the dinner, youth managed 141 youth and adult
volunteers who helped serve soup, bread, butter and drinks, distribute handmade bowls, sell ra e tickets and welcome guests.
In total, Hands4Hope youth participants and adult volunteers dedicated nearly 900 hours to planning and executing the event. Drawing from the previous year’s experience, the team nearly doubled the funds raised for recipient nonprofit organizations.
“About 1 in 4 individuals in Sacramento County experience food insecurity. As hunger becomes a desensitized topic in our everyday lives, we accept that hunger will continue to be a problem. Through Empty Bowls, we present hunger as a tangible issue where everyone’s contributions will make a di erence because it truly does for even one individual,” said Hunger Education Lead Tania Thomas, a junior at Vista Del Lago High School who gave a presentation about food insecurity at the dinner. “The proceeds from Empty Bowls provide essential funding for La proMesa Familiar, Upper Room Dining Hall, Hands4Hope Emergency Food Pantry, and Earth’s Angels in Ghana so they can continue to provide food for those in need.”
“The Empty Bowls Committee wants to thank our generous ‘Lobster Bisque’ sponsors Katy and Don Peek and Bill Roby Family Foundation;
and ‘Minestrone’ sponsors Placerville Foods Cooperative, Law O ce of Gregory Clark, Fergerson Financial and El Dorado Community Health Centers; along with other sponsors,” said Project Manager Addison Hunt, a senior at Oak Ridge High School. “In addition, we would like to give a heartfelt thanks to our dedicated potters and school ceramics program students who crafted and donated beautiful handmade bowls, a signature of the Empty Bowls event, including Dean and Linda Bullert, and all four El Dorado Union High School District schools. Local wineries, businesses, and individual donors and home cooks contributed wine, juice, soup, bread, and desserts, making it possible for attendees to enjoy a delicious meal while supporting a worthy cause.”
Empty Bowls Dinner Placerville was led for 23 years by the
El Dorado Peace and Justice Community, with assistance by Hands4Hope youth participants since 2019. In 2024, the event leadership transitioned to the youth-led Hands4Hope Empty Bowls Committee.
Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Di erence is a nonprofit, youthdriven organization with the mission to
inspire and empower youth in leadership and service. It o ers hands-on education and community outreach opportunities to youth from 6th through 12th grades through schoolbased and after-school programs in Sacramento and El Dorado counties. For more information visit hands4hopeyouth. org or call (916) 2947426.
Whitney Burke
El Dorado County O ce of Education
he Association of California School
TAdministrators Region 2 hosted a March 21 gala at the Catta Verdera Country Club in Lincoln to celebrate Region 2 Administrators of the Year.
ACSA Region 2 represents educational leaders from the Northern California counties of Butte, Colusa, El Dorado, Glenn, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sierra, Sutter and Yuba. Several administrators from the local El Dorado Chapter were recognized.
“The educational leaders we celebrate tonight truly embody professionalism and a deep commitment to students and families across El Dorado County and beyond,” said El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala. “It’s a privilege to work alongside them and I’m grateful for their unwavering dedication to serving others with excellence.”
Awards winners
Category: Secondary Co-Administrator — Phil Leonhardt, assistant principal, Ponderosa High School, El Dorado Union High School District
Category: Secondary Principal — Elizabeth Sisson, El Dorado High School, El Dorado Union High School District
Category: Special Education Administrator — Pam Bartlett, senior director of Student Success, El Dorado Union High School District
Category: Continuation/Educational Options Administrator: Carey Buchanan, director of Alternative Programs, El Dorado County O ce of Education
Category: Superintendent/Principal: Dave Scroggins, Latrobe School District
Category: Superintendent: Eric Bonniksen, Placerville Union School District
Category: Region 2 Sam LaCara Memorial Award, Michele Williamson, Jackson Elementary, Rescue Union School District.
Photos by Olena Moskvyak
Hands4Hope - Youth Making a Difference volunteers logged nearly 900 hours in preparation for the Empty Bowls Dinner on March 8.
County school leaders honored at regional gala
Courtesy photo
El Dorado County educational leaders celebrate their own at the Association of California School Administrators Region 2 gala held last month at the Catta Verdera Country Club.
GROW FOR IT!
April plant sales
The University of California Master Gardeners of El Dorado County are pleased to announce two upcoming plant sales in April. Edible plants will be featured at the Saturday, April 12, sale with ornamental plants the focus on Saturday, April 26. Both sales will be held at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive in Placerville, behind the Folsom Lake College –El Dorado Center. The gates will open promptly at 8 a.m. on both days and close at noon; both sales will be held rain or shine. Plenty of parking is available adjacent to the garden; tickets to park can be purchased for $2 at the kiosks in the college parking lot.
The edibles sale will feature top quality herbs, vegetable and fruit offerings which Master Gardeners have been busy growing locally and carefully tending. If you are looking for herbs, you can expect to find chives, dill, blue borage, calendula, wild celery, cilantro/coriander, cumin, fennel, English Lavender, ginger, lovage, chamomile, spearmint, basil (11 varieties),
Donna Marshall UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County
oregano, parsley, sorrel, sage, stevia, tarragon and thyme.
Tomatoes will be the stars of the vegetable offerings, including 10 cherry tomato varieties, dwarf varieties, five varieties of plum/ paste tomatoes and 31 varieties of slicing tomatoes. Other vegetables available will include globe artichokes, cucumbers, eggplants, hot chili peppers (six varieties), vine luffa, rhubarb, pumpkins, sweet peppers (nine varieties), tomatillos, summer squash, summer squash zucchini and winter squash. If you are interested in fruits, you will find Fuyu persimmons, dwarf figs, strawberries, thornless blackberries and both watermelon and cantaloupe melon among the offerings. Visit the Master
Gardener website mgeldorado@ucanr. edu after April 4 for a complete inventory for this sale.
You will find excellent quality ornamental plants at the April 26 sale, including native plants, ornamental grasses, groundcovers, shrubs and trees, succulents and perennials. Payment at both sales can be made with cash or check; Visa and Mastercard will also be accepted for purchases over $25. Wheeled carts will be available for your shopping convenience; consider bringing a cart of your own to avoid a wait for onsite garden wagons. There will be an information booth on both days with Master Gardeners available to answer your gardening questions.
Proceeds from the plant sales support Master Gardener volunteers with the operation and maintenance of Sherwood Demonstration Garden, which consists of 16 separate themed gardens located on 1.5 acres. Join Master Gardeners on Open Garden Day every Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. until
noon through the end of October, weather permitting. Tours of the garden are given on the first Saturday of each month through October; special arrangements can also be made for private tours. The Fall into Gardening 10-year celebration of the garden’s opening day will be held in October. It will be a wonderful community day open to the public; watch for the date and join us. There is no charge for admission to the garden
or for other Master Gardener events.
The Master Gardeners thank the community for its support at the annual plant sales and with many other activities and projects throughout the year.
Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. You can find a schedule at mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Calendar/ and recorded classes on many gardening topics here: mgeldorado.ucanr. edu/Public_Education/
Classes. Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the Ask a Master Gardener option on mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Ask_a_ Master_Gardener or leave a message at (530) 621-5512. For more information on the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu. Master Gardeners are on Facebook, Instagram & Pinterest.
El Dorado Community Foundation announces open grant cycles
Chris Ringnes
El Dorado Community Foundation
Grant cycles and letter of inquiry requests are now open at El Dorado Community Foundation to nonprofits serving El Dorado County. Visit eldoradocf.org/ grants-catalog for information about the opportunities available, including how to apply.
All grant applications will close on Thursday, May 1, and all letter of inquiry requests will be due by Sunday, June 1.
Competitive grants
The Endow El Dorado Grant application is an EDCF competitive grant process. This grant is open to all nonprofits serving the residents and communities of El Dorado County, and organizations can apply for up to $5,000 for capacity building and project/program ideas. This grant will be supplemented by many EDCF donor advised funds.
Friends of Seniors, a fund of the El Dorado Community Foundation, will be awarding a total of up to $15,000 in grants to El Dorado County nonprofits that support the wellness, life enrichment, dignity and independence of seniors (60+) residing on the western slope of El Dorado County.
The GIVE Tahoe Grant Application Process supports nonprofits who work for and within the South Lake Tahoe Area. The GIVE Tahoe Grant is open to all nonprofits, agencies and schools serving the residents and communities of South Lake Tahoe. Proposals of up to $5,000 will be considered. This grant does not have a specific focus allowing the opportunity to respond to our most important needs.
Hearts & Minds Educational Technology Fund’s mission is “to provide students in El Dorado County with technology and tools necessary for success in the 21st century with an emphasis on vocational education and hands on experiences for youth
North Tahoe Chamber awards
News release
NORTH LAKE TAHOE — At the recommendation of the volunteer Business and Chamber Advisory Committee, the North Tahoe Community Alliance Board of Directors recently awarded $362,500 in funds generated by the North Lake Tahoe Tourism Business Improvement District to 29 events scheduled to take place in North Lake Tahoe in 2025. This is in addition to $262,000 in TBID dollars previously awarded to 11 events funded prior to the start of the winter season, for a total of nearly $625,000 in support of 40 events this year. “There was tremendous interest from new
on the western slope.” Grant requests up to $2,500 will be accepted, and funding for recipients will be available immediately upon receipt of a signed Funding Agreement (mid- to end of May). Grant funds must be expended by May 31, 2026.
The Veterans Grant program is funded by El Dorado County to support operations, programs, or property improvements/repairs that support the veteran community at large. Grants are available in amounts up to $20,000 and funding will be available no later than August. Applications are reviewed and grants awarded by the El Dorado County Veterans’ Affairs Commission. This is an annual grant.
Letter of interest requests
The Pay It Forward Project Fund (a fund of the El Dorado Community Foundation) is asking for letters of inquiries from nonprofits doing community improvement projects as well as any nonprofit volunteer
nearly $625,000
and returning event producers seeking funding support to bring their events to North Lake Tahoe this year,” said Kimberly Brown, North Tahoe Chamber executive director. “The 40 events that were selected to receive TBID funds represent both popular community traditions and a variety of cultural and recreational activities that align with our intention of supporting the vibrancy and vitality of our business community. By investing in these events, we are fostering economic growth that strengthens our local economy and supports the long-term prosperity of our region.”
For this latest round of funding, a simplified event evaluation scoring system was implemented to incorporate return on
projects on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe, Carson City, Minden and Gardnerville. Pay It Forward Project Fund is looking to support community volunteer projects; this may include projects benefiting the environment, parks, assisting youth and/or seniors. The requests should center on volunteerism, giving back to the community and respecting our environment.
The Sierra Nevada Foundation (a fund of the El Dorado Community Foundation) is asking for letters of inquiries for funding from nonprofits in good standing that are working on protection, preservation and restoration projects within the Sierra Nevada Conservancy Map which can be found at tinyurl.com/2s3fwvvx.
For any questions about any of these grants email Kathy Haven, director of Grants, Programs & Community Impact, at kathy@eldoradocf.org. This information plus a basic grant writing presentation is all available at eldoradocf.org/grants-catalog.
for 2025 events
investment metrics supporting community vitality, environmental stewardship, and economic impact. Each event’s traffic management and sustainability plans were also evaluated, with organizers responsible for identifying and outlining how they will mitigate the impacts of tourism on the community and environment.
2025 events that received funding
• Alpenglow Winter Speaker Series beginning Dec. 12, 2024
• NLT Snowfest Feb. 26-March 9
• The Great Ski Race March 2
• Kings Beach Snowfest Parade March 8
• 2025 Mothership Classic March 23
• Toyota US Freestyle National Championship March 24-31
• Stewarding Knowledges May 17
• Made in Tahoe Spring & Fall May 24-25; Oct. 11-12
• Tail Wagger May 31
• Big Blue Adventure Series June-Oct.
• Tahoe City Food & Wine Classic - June 7
• Tahoe Joy Festival June 8
•Music on the Beach Every Friday from June 13-Aug. 29
• A Day of Healing Arts June 14
• Lake Tahoe Summit Classic June 14-15
• Concerts at Commons Every Sunday from June 15-Sept. 7
• Broken Arrow Skyrace June 19-22
• Public Literary Events OV June 21-27; July 7-14
• TrailCon - June 24-25
• Tahoe City Lakeside Movies Every Wednesday from June 25-Aug. 13
• Tahoe Paddle Racing Series June 28, Aug. 16
• Tahoe City 4th of July Celebration July 4
• Wild Lotus Yoga Festival July 11-13
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An array of edible options will be available to purchase at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden April 12 with ornamental plants available April 26.
DAY HIKER
One of the Yuba’s most beloved trails
Hike the Buttermilk Bend Trail in early spring when you’ll find yourself dodging butterflies as they dance through the air. Take in the sweeping views of the Yuba River, but don’t forget to appreciate the variety of wildflowers blooming at your feet. The rock benches and wellmaintained trail provide perfect spots to pause and enjoy the scenery. While the parking area may be crowded, and you’ll likely share the trail with many others, the experience is worth it. Bring your dog, but be sure to keep them on a leash as you navigate this popular, high-traffic trail.
sign clearly indicates the end of this mostly level and easy trail. There’s one gentle incline and a few narrow sections, so watch your step. The return trip offers just as much beauty, giving you a chance to take in the views from another angle.
Directions to
Buttermilk Bend Trail
From Interstate 80 East, take Highway 49 North to Grass Valley.
Take the Highway 20 exit toward Penn Valley/Marysville.
Turn right onto Pleasant Valley Road.
Cross the modern bridge and park in the north parking lot. The fee is $5.
Plan your visit
Embracing the trail’s popularity
This trail, once a local secret, has gained widespread popularity—social media is partly to blame. But don’t let that deter you; it’s still a must-do hike. After you’ve experienced the trail in its springtime glory, consider returning during quieter times: midweek, early in the morning, or late in the afternoon. Each season offers its own version of beauty here, and the trail’s charm never fades.
The river’s power and beauty
The sound of the Yuba River surging toward the sea, crashing against sun-bleached granite boulders, is reason enough to visit. As you follow the trail that hugs the hillside, each bend reveals a new perspective of the river—a gift for your eyes. If you’re lucky, you might spot a kayak gliding through the canyon, offering a sense of the river’s scale and power.
Hidden spots and trail highlights
Toward the end of the trail, you’ll find several volunteer paths leading down to the river. Some reveal small sandbars—perfect spots for a hot summer day. At the 1.25-mile mark, a
Best times to visit: Early spring is peak season for butterflies and wildflowers, making it a perfect time to visit. If you want to avoid crowds, try midweek hikes, early mornings, or late afternoons. Each season brings new colors and views to enjoy.
Wildlife and river views: Keep an eye out for kayakers navigating the river—it’s a reminder of the power and scale of the Yuba. The sandbars along the volunteer trails are great spots to cool off or have a picnic during summer.
Have you hiked Buttermilk Bend Trail before? What’s your favorite season or time of day to visit?
Share your experiences and tag @ MaryWestHikes on social media.
Mary West is the author of the book series, Day Hiker - Gold Country Trail Guide (I, II, and III). The books compile her Day Hiker columns, sharing her long-time love for the outdoors and favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West received the 2017 and 2019 CRAFT Awards for Best Outdoor Column, as well as the 2020 CRAFT Award for her second book in the series from the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram for more trail inspiration.
Drytown Social Club
Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, one of the last true links to the great folk traditions of this country, will take the stage at the Drytown Social Club on Saturday, April 12 at 7 p.m. A two-time Grammy Award winner, Elliott is widely regarded as a foundational figure in American folk music. Long before the likes of Elvis, Dylan, The Beatles or Led Zeppelin, Ramblin’ Jack was already mastering the guitar and passing along his unique style of storytelling and song.
In the tradition of roving troubadours, Elliott has carried the timeless songs of folk, blues and Americana from one place to another, from one generation to the next. These songs — crafted with real-life stories and passions — have outlasted musical trends and continue to resonate with audiences.
Elliott learned the blues firsthand from the likes of Leadbelly, Mississippi John Hurt and Reverend Gary Davis. He has recorded 40 albums, written one of the first trucking songs, “Cup of Coffee,” which was recorded by Johnny Cash, and championed the works of iconic singer-songwriters such as Bob Dylan, Kris Kristofferson and Tim Hardin. As a founding member of Bob Dylan’s Rolling Thunder Revue, Elliott has influenced countless artists, including Jerry Jeff Walker, Guy Clark, Tom Russell and The Grateful Dead. Known for his spontaneous performances, Elliott doesn’t rely on a setlist, instead following his gut and playing what feels right in the moment. His life’s journey is a testament to the America of lore — one marked by struggle, hard luck and occasional good fortune. His songs reflect the romance and passion of everyday life, connecting listeners to real people and their stories.
Elliott’s distinctive voice is sharp, focused and piercing, and his effortless flat-picking style on
the guitar is a true masterclass. Bob Dylan wrote in Chronicles: Volume One, “He was a brilliant entertainer, Jack went out and grabbed you, Jack was king of the folksingers.”
A true icon of American roots music, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott is also a master storyteller. He’s known for sharing tales from his travels through the heart of folk, blues and cowboy music.
As Johnny Cash once said, “Nobody I know, and I mean nobody, has covered more ground, made more friends and sung more songs than the fellow you’re about to meet right now. He’s got a song and a friend for every mile behind him.” At 93, Elliott is still on the road, seeking out the places, people and stories that define the fabric of Americana.
On April 12, Ramblin’ Jack will bring the same
excitement to Drytown that once filled the town during the Gold Rush when its streets were lined with 26 saloons and a population of 20,000. For a moment, this intimate show will make Drytown bustle once again, as Elliott shares his legendary music and stories.
Over the past three years, Drytown Social Club, a small, unassuming club and winery tasting room, has emerged as the region’s go-to venue for the best local talent and touring artists.
The Drytown Social Club is located at 15950 Highway 49 in Drytown and offers wood fired pizza, artisan cheese and charcuterie, small lot wine, craft beer and coffee. For tickets and more
Courtesy photo
Ramblin’ Jack will bring his unique storytelling Americana style to Drytown April 12.
Mary West Outdoor columnist
Photos by Mary West
In the early spring you will find yourself dodging butterflies as they dance through the air. The sound of the Yuba River surging toward the sea, crashing against sun-bleached granite boulders, is reason enough to visit.
Poetry of the Sierra Foothills hosts local poets for Open Mic
Poetry of the Sierra Foothills will host an open mic with guest poets Shawn Pittard and Gene Berson on Sunday, April 13 at 2 p.m. at Chateau Davell Winery.
Pittard is the author of three slender chapbook volumes of poetry: “Witness” which was a finalist in the Poetry Box 2024 chapbook contest, “Standing in the River” the winner of Tebot Bach’s 2010 Clockwise chapbook competition and “These Rivers” from Rattlesnake Press. He’s been a coach for Poetry Out Loud and a California Poet in the
Know Continued from B1
presents “Churchill” starring Daniel Payne at 7:30 p.m. at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter. net or call (916) 608-6888.
Grass Valley Center for the Arts presents Rock Legend Benmont Tench at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.
April 12
The Cameron Park Community Services District will host the Eggstreme Egg Hunt from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit cameronpark.org.
The Rescue Community Center will host a Spring Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter.com.
Gwinllan Estate Vineyard and Winery in Somerset will host its Anniversary Celebration beginning at noon. Visit gwinllanestate.com for more information.
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host the Aqua Egg Hunt from 1-3 p.m. at the Community Pool. Join the Easter Bunny on the pool deck and search for the eggs with gold and silver tickets to exchange for goodies. Preregistration required. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
The Placerville Speedway at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds presents Points Race #4: Ltd. Late Models, Pure Stocks, Mini Trucks, Pro Stock Series| Tilford Tribute at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit placervillespeedway.com.
The El Dorado County Mineral & Gem Show will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. For more information visit edcmgs.org.
The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville will host Rock the Cradle: a Benefit for Buck and Amity Earnest and their IVF Journey from 2-11 p.m. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Clerical Estate Trio will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.
Thunder Cover will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
Schools, has taught recitation and writing in middle schools and high schools, including juvenile hall as well as with veterans and the men in Folsom Prison. By day, he has labored in the field of environmental protection, planning and public policy, focusing on energy.
Berson has published two books of poetry, “raveling travel” from Open Book Press and “Work Ethic of a Shopping Cart Shaman” from Hip Pocket Press. In the late ’60s and early ’70s he coordinated the Pegasus program at San Francisco State University that became Poets in the Schools. Under
Grass Valley Center for the Arts presents the Sierra Poetry Festival at 9 a.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.
Sacramento Youth Symphony presents 1001 Nights at 1:30 p.m. at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
Folsom Lake Symphony presents Symphony Goes Wild at 7:30 p.m. at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
The Sofia in Sacramento presents Shannon Curtis — 80s Kids at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
California Rail Road Museum presents the California Invention Convention state finals from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit californiarailroad.museum.
Now
Placerville Arts Association will host its Spring Membership Show at the El Dorado County Government Building open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The show continues through April 11. For more information visit placervillearts.com.
The Sacramento Fine Arts Center in Carmichael presents Magnum Opus 2025 through April 12. The museum opens at 11 a.m. daily, closed Mondays. For more information visit sacfinearts.org.
Falcon’s Eye Theatre at Folsom Lake College presents American Night: The Ballad of Juan José” at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom at 7:30 p.m. The show runs through April 19. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Everything Beautiful Happens at Night” through April 20. For tickets and more information call (916) 9955464 or visit capstage.org.
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Guys and Dolls” through April 27. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
California Museum in Sacramento presents Our War Too: Women in Service through May 4. For more
Public Notices
details visit californiamuseum.org.
that program he conducted many poetry workshops throughout the Northwest. These included Native American schools on reservations, a one room schoolhouse on the Wyoming prairie and what was known then as reform schools as well as urban and rural schools. He taught high school in Oakland at Oakland Tech and was active in the Bay Area poetry scene for many years and continues that work in the Northern California foothills where he now lives. He has also worked as a copywriter and as a union member of Local 510 in the trade show convention industry.
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Collidoscope – De La Torre Brothers Retrospective through May 4; Frames of Mind – The Ramer Photography Collection through May 4; Selections from the Crocker-Kingsley through May 4; Marvin Lipofsky — Blows Glass Collection through Aug. 17; Black & Gold –Traditional and Contemporary Japanese and Chinese Ceramics through Dec. 31, 2025; and Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030. For more information visit crockerart.org.
Registration is now open for the 42nd Bob West Drive for Marshall. The event is Friday, June 20, at Cold Springs Golf & Country Club. For more information or to register visit marshallfound.org/ golf-registration/?blm_aid=30898.
National Alliance on Mental Illness El Dorado County offers free, in-person family support groups 6-7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month in Placerville. For more information visit namieldoradocounty.org.
Sherwood Demonstration Garden on the Folsom Lake College – El Dorado Center campus in Placerville is open 9 a.m. every Friday and Saturday for open garden days. Take a leisurely stroll through all 16 themed gardens. Docents are on site to answer questions. The garden may be closed for inclement weather or poor air quality. Check before
visiting: tinyurl.com/59w77fhz. Parking permits required; purchase a $2 permit at any kiosk. The Town Center Farmer’s Market is back in action on Sundays in its new location in the amphitheater near Brickyard & South Fork. Stop by 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy local certified produce, fresh flowers, wine, baked goods, micro greens, skin care, handmade goods, baskets, jewelry, face painting, henna art and more. Live music from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Marshall Hospital Auxiliary is looking for volunteers. Help people and make new friends. Interviews
