Mountain Democrat: Wednesday, August 5, 2026 by mcnaughtonmedia

the Roof

Sta writer

Episcopal Church of Our Saviour on Coloma Street, the oldest continuously operating church in El Dorado County, has a new roof thanks to a generous donation from a parishioner and the talented crew of American Eagle Rooﬁng of Shingle Springs. The existing

installed in 1993, had previously been patched and was deemed beyond repair. Sean Kennedy, owner of American

The California Department of Food and Agriculture has given El Dorado County $1 million to continue funding a glassy-winged sharpshooter surveillance program. The county contracts with Neighborly Pest Management Inc. for glassy-winged sharpshooter delimitation services. The additional money bumps the contract amount up to $5,522,000.

The CDFA conﬁrmed the presence of the glassy-winged sharpshooter in El Dorado Hills in fall 2024. This pest is an invasive vector of the bacterium that causes Pierce’s disease in grapes — a multi-million-dollar industry in El Dorado County.

“This pest presents a signiﬁcant, clear and ■ See FUNDING, page A8

Early crash sends a man to the hospital

A driver su ered suspected major injuries in a solo vehicle wreck on Latrobe Road in El Dorado Hills early Friday morning, according to the California Highway Patrol.

■ See CRASH, page A8

Courtesy photo

El Dorado Hills is the center of a glassy-winged sharpshooter infestation in the county.

Noel Stack Editor

Photo courtesy of EDH Fire

El Dorado Hills firefighters work the scene of a solo vehicle wreck on Latrobe Road early Friday morning.

Noel Stack Editor

ESSENTIALS

OBITUARIES

Gerald Warren “Jerry”

Snyder

May 13, 1937 – July 18, 2026

Jerry Snyder of Coloma California passed away peacefully on July 18th in his home at the Snyder Ranch on Cold Springs Rd, being comforted in his final minutes by son Jeff Snyder and daughter Karen Springer. He was 89 years old.

Jerry was born to Waldemar G. Snyder and Hazel Martin Snyder in Modesto, Ca. He moved to Coloma at a young age to live with his Uncle Carlo Pisan and his Aunt Hilda Snyder Pisan, and they raised him as their own. They had homesteaded the beautiful property at the top of the grade, one mile from Coloma, in the early part of the 20th century, and named it The Venice Ranch in honor of Carlos’ beloved homeland. Along with raising sheep and goats, they worked one of the large pear orchards in the Coloma/Gold Hill area. The property overlooked the Coloma and Lotus valleys in the shadow of Mt. Murphy. Jerry was taught how to work hard on the property, and he grew to love it as much as anything in his life, a love that lasted until his final breath.

Jerry was already working in the logging industry when he graduated from El Dorado High School in 1956. He soon ventured out and entered the construction trade, learning to run and operate heavy equipment of all kinds. He interrupted that career in 1958 to serve his country in the U.S. Army, earning an honorable discharge four years later in 1962. Upon his return, he worked construction jobs all over the state of California on several major projects, and he became so skilled that many in the industry still talk to this day about how he became a legend in the Sacramento area, known for his hard work ethic and his knowledge and expertise in dirt moving and compaction of large fill sites. Friend Larry Andrea recently commented that “there wasn’t a large dirt job around that you didn’t see him either running a water truck or a water pull with a dirty face and those baby blue eyes, always ready for a cold beer after a long day of hard work.” Everybody wanted him on their jobsite, and he

Allan Eugene

Severance

Dec. 25, 1928 – April 15, 2026

Verna Ellen Severance

March 28, 1929 – Feb. 10, 2025

With gratitude for lives well lived and hearts full of love, the family of Allan Eugene Severance and Verna Ellen Severance announces their passing. Verna passed away on February 10, 2025, at the age of 95, and Allan followed her on April 15, 2026, at the age of 97. Though separated for just over a year, after nearly seventy-five years of marriage they will be together once again on resurrection morning.

Allan was born on Christmas Day, 1928, in Long Beach, California, to Erwin and Elanor (Torrey) Severance. As a young child, he moved with his family to Pomona, where he grew up. He attended Pomona Junior Academy and later Los Sierra Academy, where he played drums in the school band. He earned an Associate of Arts degree in aircraft maintenance from Mt. San Antonio College and married Verna in April 1950. Allan worked for 32 years at Kaiser Steel before managing his son’s medical practice for another 30 years. His greatest joy was caring for his family. Whether planning cross-country vacations, making sure everyone was comfortable, or quietly helping wherever he was needed, he expressed his love through acts of service. He was the family’s rock of Gibraltar.

His love of flying began when he earned his private pilot’s license at just sixteen years old. One of his favorite adventures was sharing the flying duties with his son on a trip to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, for the 2005 EAA AirVenture airshow. He also enjoyed photography, serving as president of the local photography club, and once won a prize for one of his photographs at the Los Angeles County Fair. Allan was a gifted storyteller, as his grandchildren will gladly attest, and he leaves them with treasured memories that will be shared for generations.

Verna was born on March 28, 1929, in Jackson County, Ohio, to Foster and Mexie (Hall) McCoy. She grew up on a small farm with her five brothers as the only daughter in the family. In eighth grade, she won the Jackson County Spelling Bee. At eighteen, she moved with her family to Southern California, where she worked for the Automobile Club of Southern California (AAA) and later served as secretary of the Pomona Seventh-day Adventist Church.

passed these skills and work ethic on to his son Jeff. Jerry married his high school sweetheart, Judy VanderPauwert, and they had two children, Jeri Lee, and Jeff. After their divorce a few years later, Jerry was working a job in Southern California in Crestline, Ca. where he met Joan Hover while she was on vacation with her three children, Darrell, Karen, and Bobby. They fell in love, and shortly thereafter on July 18th, 1970 they were married. Not long after, due to the passing of his Uncle Carlo, and the failing health of his Aunt Hilda, Jerry and Joan moved the entire family from Pomona, Ca. to the ranch in Coloma, a move that was life changing for all of them. Living in a four room bunkhouse while building their new home, working a fulltime pear ranch, and tending to a few hundred sheep, goats, pigs and milking cows were all a far cry from the asphalt jungle of Southern California… and it was BEAUTIFUL.

Jerry instilled that hard work ethic into all of his children, and Jerry and Joan raised them not as step children to either one, but as a true family. There was never a distinction then, or to this day about what constitutes a true mother or father, brother or sister as far as blood is concerned…to Jerry and Joans’ credit they instilled in all of their children the idea that a true family was not dictated simply at birth, but more so how they lived their lives together. The values they instilled in their children remain today.

Jerry was proud of so many things. Along with his Army service, he was a 45 year member of the Elks Lodge and a 44 year member of the American Legion. He was a long time member of the Odd Fellows and The Grange, supporting all of their special causes and events. He was a supporter of the R.M.E.F., Ducks Unlimited, and a passionate lifetime member of the N.R.A.

HE WAS AN ABSOLUTE CHARACTER! He was memorable to anyone who ever met him. He was a large man and personality, and somehow larger in life. He was constantly telling jokes, some remembered from years before. He had a sharp mind and a quick wit. He lived in that house on the hill that was built by him and Joan, and he reveled in calling it Snyderville, and the ranch, eventually, the Snyder Ranch. He was a hoarder, and he was a champion wheeler dealer. He had business cards and signs made on the property that simply said; “Jerry Snyder Will, Buy, Sell or Trade For Anything,” and he truly lived it. If buying and selling and trading were a

Verna had a lifelong curiosity and love of learning. She especially loved history, genealogy, needlework, cooking, and playing games with her family. She rarely missed a San Francisco Giants baseball game or a good tennis match. Even into her nineties, she stayed closely connected with family through frequent text messages, always interested in what everyone was doing and eager to celebrate their joys.

Married in April 1950 at the age of twentyone, Allan and Verna built a remarkable life together centered on faith, family, and service. Their marriage of nearly seventy-five years was a beautiful example of devotion, partnership, and enduring love. Their faith was the foundation of their lives. They were active members of both the Pomona and Placerville Seventh-day Adventist churches. In Pomona, Allan served as Pathfinder leader, school board president, church treasurer, and choir member. Verna faithfully served for many years as church secretary. Her casseroles were always a hit at the after-church potlucks.

After moving to Placerville, Allan taught Sabbath School and served as assistant church treasurer, while Verna volunteered in the church library and was always willing to help wherever she was needed.

They loved traveling, camping, and hiking together, but no place held their hearts quite like Yosemite National Park. Allan first visited Yosemite as a young boy. They returned there for their honeymoon, shared countless family vacations on its trails over the years, and celebrated many of life’s happiest memories beneath its granite cliffs—including Verna’s 80th birthday with family at the Ahwahnee Hotel. They cherished their family above all else and remained actively involved in the lives of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren until the very end.

They are survived by their son, Douglas Severance; daughter, Diane Clark; grandchildren Jonathan Clark, Emily Clark, Ashley Crawford, and Devyn Severance; and great-grandchildren Levi, Noah, Alexis, Everett, Kaia, and Adam. Their greatest legacy is the family they cherished, the example of unwavering faith they lived, and the kindness they shared with everyone they met.

A memorial service celebrating the lives of Allan and Verna Severance will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Placerville Seventh-day Adventist Church. Family and friends are warmly invited to remain afterward for refreshments, fellowship, and the opportunity to continue sharing memories together.

https://greenvalleymortuary.com/obituaries/ allan-verna-severance?utm_source=search&utm_ medium=web&utm_campaign=flowers&cta=fhwebsite

Mary Estell Bozarth Wells

Oct., 1952 – July 14, 2026

July 14, 2026 Mary passed at home with family after a short illness. Mary is survived by her daughter Andrea, husband Rodger, Grands and Greats.

Mary was proceeded in death by Mandie, her daughter, and all of her siblings.

Mary attended El Dorado High. She worked locally and enjoyed home life with family and

professional sport, Jerry would have a roomful of the appropriate world championship trophies. He had many joys in his life. He cherished every pet that he ever owned, and he absolutely loved a good ribeye. It was a family tradition to attend the wheelbarrow races at the Fairgrounds, and for good reason. Over the years he watched his son and grandchildren not only compete and win the race, but sometimes dominate it, most recently granddaughter Makenzie a few weeks ago. Nobody cheered louder in those stands than Jerry Snyder. He loved to hunt, and he took many trips to Oregon with Jeff to hunt with Darrell near Bend, and those were some of the most memorable trips for the three of them of their lives; full of fun and adventure. In 2010 he and Darrell famously saved the life of a lost hunter, a war hero, who had been lost for 4 days and 3 nights in sub-freezing temperatures. It became International news, reaching as far away as Australia; and that story, as crazy as it gets, was simply one chapter of their hunting fun. His hunting name was “Bubba,” a self-named moniker that somehow described him perfectly out in the woods. Some of his favorite hunting related experiences were when the entire Ducks Unlimited attendees at the fairgrounds would sing happy birthday to him every year…over 400 of them…he loved it beyond measure. Jerry was generous to a fault. He could not say no to a family member or friend for almost any request. He lived a full life, a memorable life. At the end, to stay in his home, he was cared for by daughter Karen and granddaughter Allie to assist in his wish to never leave.

He is preceded in death by brothers Dale, Gordon, and Paul. He is survived by brother David, his Children Jeff Snyder, Jeri Lee Hicks, Darrell Hover (Margaret), Karen Springer (Dave), Robert Hover (Aleesha), several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. He absolutely loved all of them in every way, and they loved him back.

He said goodbye to the world in the way he wanted…from his house on the hill in the middle of Snyderville, overlooking Coloma, Lotus, and in the shadow of Mt. Murphy. He will be missed.

A celebration of life will be held at the Snyder Ranch on August 22nd. Log on to RSVP or to send a message at: https:/evite.me/TaCcm94jVB (or contact Jeff or Karen).

Joan (Huntsman)

Schwarzberg

Jan. 9, 1930 – July 13, 2026

Joan was born on January 9, 1930 to Paul (Ted) and Phyllis Poore in Blockton, Iowa. She was the second of four daughters. She peacefully passed away and went to be with her Lord and savior at the age of 96 on July 13, 2026 with her family by her side.

Joan married her first love, Donald O. Huntsman, in 1947. They moved to El Dorado County in 1950, where she raised her family and lived for her next 76 years. She was the proud mother of 5 children: John Huntsman (Karen), Linda Brewster (Jim), Leonard Huntsman (Corinne), Steven Huntsman (Lorrie) and Kimberly Martin. She would proudly tell you she had 10 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren who she loved so dearly. Sadly, she was widowed in 1967. She was proceeded in death by her father, mother, husband, two sisters Shirley Keeney and Guess, and son-in-law Dean Brewster. Survived by her sister, Marsha Grundy. Joan worked for El Dorado Savings Bank in Placerville for 23 years. She was the second woman to solo in an airplane at the Placerville Airport. Her husband at the time, Don Huntsman, was the owner/ operator of Pine Belt Helicopters. She wanted to be able to fly the plane home if anything were to happen to him in the air.

She found love again later in her life and married Donald Schwarzberg, her other Don. They had 16 wonderful years together until his passing in 2022. They attended Pollock Pines Baptist Church, where they sang in the choir together. They eventually moved to Gold Country Baptist Church.

She was known for her sweet spirit and was loved by all. She loved her family deeply, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck! She will be missed by all who loved her.

The family would like to thank Gold Country Assisted Living for their loving care this past year. A memorial service will be held at Gold County Baptist Church (3800 N. Shingle Road, Shingle Springs) on August 15th at 11:00 am.

Geoffrey Scott Kidder

May 2, 1950 – July 9, 2026

Geoffrey Scott Kidder died on July 9 at the age of 76. He was the beloved husband of Pamela, father of Forrest and Ariah, and grandfather of Charlotte and Henry in Washington State, and Kai and Ruki in Japan.

Born and raised in Jefferson, Iowa, Geoff came to California to attend Sacramento State and eventually settled in the Sierra Foothills. His was a friendly face on the streets of Placerville where he spent years working to restore historic buildings on Main Street. The Hangman Tree Building is one of his masterpieces. Friends and acquaintances are welcome to attend a celebration of Geoff’s life to be held Saturday, August 8, 6-8 p.m. at the old post office, 515 Main Street, Placerville. There will be an informal buffet, with food donations appreciated. Please bring any photos of his work you’d like to share.

Eldorado National Forest proposes several fee hikes

Don Morrill

U.S. Forest Service

The Eldorado National Forest is proposing new recreation fees and changes to existing

recreation fees at various recreation sites in the forest, including wilderness overnight permits and Christmas tree permits. Also, the Eldorado

National Forest, with the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, will implement a fee increase for specialized recreation permits for overnight

use in the Desolation Wilderness Area and the Carson Pass Special Management Area of the Mokelumne Wilderness Area. Not all recreation sites in the forest require a fee. Including the sites in this proposal, over 40% of sites on the forest would still not require a recreation fee. The forest will continue to honor all nationally recognized fee-free days at day use sites across the forest. Campgrounds and cabins are reservable through recreation. gov for an additional $8 reservation fee, wilderness permits for an additional $6 and Christmas tree permits for an additional $2.50.

In 2004, Congress passed the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act which allows the Forest Service to retain at least 80% of the money collected at recreation sites and

EDSO to host CCW Awareness Day event

Gun Owners of California is proud to help promote the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce CCW Awareness Day, presented in cooperation with USCCA, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, 100 Placerville Drive in Placerville.

This free, family-friendly community event is designed to promote responsible ﬁrearm ownership, strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and the community and provide valuable concealed carry education for current and prospective CCW holders.

Whether you already have a CCW permit, are considering applying for one or simply want to learn more about responsible ﬁrearm ownership, this event o ers something for the entire family. Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Meet El Dorado County sheri ’s deputies and

K-9 teams

• Explore armored vehicles and a sheri ’s helicopter display

• Learn more about concealed carry laws, training, and responsible ﬁrearm ownership

• Visit local vendors and community resource booths

• Enjoy bounce houses and family activities for kids

• Enter ra es and sponsored giveaways, including 10 FREE CCW classes awarded during the event

This community event brings together law enforcement, ﬁrearms instructors, local businesses and responsible gun owners for a day focused on education, safety and building stronger relationships throughout El Dorado County. No registration required; just show up with friends and family for a fun, educational day celebrating responsible concealed carry, public safety and community engagement.

Community meetings scheduled

Engage El Dorado

Engage El Dorado hosts upcoming meetings and the community is invited to participate.

Last year the group solicited information and ideas related to the topics of attainable housing and accessible transportation within El Dorado County. Through a collaborative approach between El Dorado County and the El Dorado Community Foundation, Engage El Dorado centered on hearing community voices, especially from

underrepresented populations, seeking to understand local needs and the connection between attainable housing and transportation access. The summer meetings explore collected data and brainstorm community-led ideas around these issues.

• An in-person only workshop will be held 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Aug. 13 tentatively scheduled for the Veterans Memorial Hall, 130 Placerville Drive, Placerville

• An online only reporting meeting will be held 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Sept. 10 at bit.ly/EngageSept10.

use these funds locally to operate, maintain and improve these sites. Revenue collected through recreation fees would help the forest improve infrastructure at recreation sites and fund additional

recreation sta during the season of operation. Projects that would be made possible with this additional funding include transitioning from propane lighting

JET-AGE FLOSSING

HOW STRESS AFFECTS YOUR ORAL HEALTH

Stress not only harms your heart and digestive tract, induces hypertension, and causes skin problems, it can also affect the soft tissues of the mouth, teeth, and gums. To begin with, stress (as well as fatigue and allergies) increases the risk of developing canker sores, which, although not contagious, can be painful. They usually disappear in seven to ten days, during which time over-the-counter topical esthetics may help quell discomfort. Additionally, stress causes tooth-grinding (bruxism), which has the potential to chip and even fracture teeth. Finally, extreme stress may cause some people to overlook brushing and ossing or even to eat sweets, and even short-term stress increases the likelihood of “gingivitis” (bleeding gums), which can progress to serious gum disease. While there are promising treat-

ossing their teeth. As today’s col-

3:54

5:25 p.m. Vandalism was reported at Placerville Road and Highway 50.

5:30 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.

8:44 p.m.

July 29

2:13 a.m. Petty theft was reported at a business on Manor Drive.

3:10 a.m.

on Placerville Drive.

11:21 a.m. Petty theft was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.

7:36 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Broadway.

9:04 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Placerville Drive.

July 30

11:53 p.m. Battery was reported on Woodridge Court.

July 31

on Placerville Drive. 10:53 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.

10:40 a.m. Battery was reported at a business on Main Street. 8:56 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Hidden Springs Circle.

Aug. 1 4:15 a.m.

Road.

umn states, there are some straightforward ways to oss which address many excuses. By brushing and ossing we help to eliminate the bacteria which can lead to bad breath, gingivitis, and periodontal

ments for stress, the management of the same is mostly dependent on the ability and willingness of a person to make the changes necessary for a healthy lifestyle. There is an abundance of innovative technologies and devices available to help us improve the quality and comfort of care we deliver. We emphasize preventive dentistry for the entire family. When was the last time you had a

Courtesy photo

Now is the time for the public to comment on the Eldorado National Forest’s proposed fee increases at many recreation sites. A campground around Hell Hole Reservoir, above, could see fees increased.

OPINION

Yes on the AM Radio in Every Vehicle Act

It is rare for me to support anything inserting more government into our lives.

However, I’m now looking at one of these exceptions.

It’s the AM Radio in Every Vehicle Act.

The legislation pushes back against automobile manufacturers moving to no longer include AM radio as standard equipment in new cars. The bill mandates a Department of Transportation rule requiring that all new vehicles manufactured in the U.S. or imported come equipped with an AM radio and the ability to receive AM radio broadcasts.

At ﬁrst glance, I felt, as I most always do, that what business is it of government to tell manufacturers what they should produce? These companies stay in business because they are the experts in how best to serve their customers.

In the name of disclosure, I am on the board of the National Religious Broadcasters, and NRB supports this legislation for various reasons, one being that AM radio is an important platform for Christian broadcasting.

Letters to the Editor

Toss the rubber stamp

EDITOR:

On Feb, 23, 2026, the El Dorado Irrigation District Board of Directors approved a $50 million bond refunding. On the surface this is great.

But within the associated Indenture of Trust document for the 2026 refunding bonds it was disturbing to see that 2029 water revenues are represented as increasing 18.73%, including a 0.62% increase in connections.

demonstrates sta wants to redouble them for 2031. (i.e.2027/12%, 2028/12%, 2029/18%, 2030/18%, 2031/18%)

Meanwhile sta are getting 8% pay hikes, headcount is up 10% since 2018, cost of service determined rates for agriculture were cut in half by the board misappropriating $3 million of operating reserves (that agriculture never contributed to) and sta blows o spending $60 million on a $3.5 million original approved intertie (that the district survived without during both drought and Caldor Fire).

It is vital that every American always has access to emergency information.

However, despite my great zeal that all Americans hear the Gospel, I would not support this legislation for that reason. Again, we are talking about suppliers and consumers and, in my view, markets should operate freely and privately, and particular interest groups should not get government involved to protect and mandate what they want.

Given my ﬁrst reaction to the bill, I was surprised to see the very wide (317 co-sponsors in the House) and very bipartisan support that it has.

I also noted senators — such as Ted Cruz, Rick Scott and the late Lindsey Graham— whom I consider strong conservatives — who are on board as co-sponsors.

The point is that even the free-est of free market thinking economists, even the late, great professor Milton Friedman, recognize there are incidents when government needs to get involved in private transactions.

Generally, economists call these “externalities.”

Externalities are costs incurred, often public costs, as result of the transaction that are not reﬂected in the transaction that takes place between the private parties.

One of the best-known examples is pollution. A reﬁnery produces gasoline for consumers, but in doing so emits noxious gases into the atmosphere.

Government gets involved to deal with this problem.

So, what’s the “externality” with AM radio?

I am persuaded in what I read as the national

See PARKER, page A7

■

The Balancing Act

On top of this, sta now wants to increase reserves that would add another 2% to water rate hikes. Much of this is to additionally fund employee pensions and retiree health even though EID already is funded at a signiﬁcantly higher percentage than the state has funded these accounts. (Instead of “Best practices” how about “a bit better than most everyone else”?)

Next consider that since 2018, EID water rates have nearly doubled and this bond document

The Indenture of Trust document further reports that EID allocates 60% of property tax revenues to water and 40% to wastewater. But that di ers from the 75%/25% allocation in the ﬁve-year ﬁnancial plan the board approved last December. Why are sewer customers not receiving their 40% allocation, especially when 55% of EID’s property tax revenues come from El Dorado

Democrat Socialists of America are not real Democrats

There appears to be a new movement emerging in American politics — a group whose some 120,000 members call themselves Democrat Socialists of America. In recent primary elections in New York and Colorado, four DSA members won their congressional primaries as Democrats. They were all supported by the new socialist/communist mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani, himself a leader of the DSA.

But these people of the DSA are not Democrats; they are, at best, far left socialists and, at worst, communists. When you examine their beliefs and platform it becomes clear even as they try to hide their real position — as did Mamdani when he promised free buses and a ordable housing.

If the Democratic Party continues to allow DSA candidates to run as Democrats, the Democratic Party, the party of John Kennedy and Daniel

Patrick Moynihan, will cease to exist. It will become the Communist Party — with the goal to destroy the United States of America.

Here are excerpts from their platform.

1. Scrapping the United States Senate. States don’t matter when you have central control, especially states like Wyoming, which has a population of less than 600,000 but currently has two senators just like New York. DSA people think that is unfair. But the Founding Fathers found it necessary to create fairness among large and small states, sparsely populated and densely populated states, with two houses of Congress: one where members were elected by districts of equal population and the other being allocated two senators per state. It has worked well for 250 years.

2. Completely open borders allowing unbridled illegal immigration, while defunding ICE. That will destroy a nation and its

We must remember: Without private property there is no such thing as democracy. Every communist/socialist country has failed and none were democracies.

culture. A nation is borders, common language and culture. We are no longer a “melting pot,” but more like a “smorgasbord.” Bernie Sanders has million of dollars and three homes, perhaps he can take in a couple dozen illegals and support them.

3. Complete amnesty for all illegal aliens. That will give the Commies about 20 million new voters.

4. Defund not just the police, but jails and prisons. We will become a non-productive country of chaos. It has been said by DSA proponents we will be “abolishing the carceral forces of the capitalist state.”

5. Defund the military. Maybe in a few years we will all be learning Chinese.

6. Institute Medicare for all and free everything (of course, nothing is ever free). Socialized medical systems around the world deliver average to poor health care, long waits with the government in many cases deciding

who lives and who dies. And there will be no such thing as “malpractice” in socialized medicine. Obamacare has been an expensive, abject failure, more than doubling healthcare costs since its inception. Since doctors will only be allowed to work or practice medicine for the government, they will become the new generation of slaves.

7. Then there will be the government takeover of all large corporations and the conﬁscation of wealth by taxation. The only people with money will be the politicians. If you think politicians are rich now, wait until the Commies takeover. Huge raises are already proposed in Mamdani’s New York City government.

8. Private businesses will be penalized in some fashion to drive them out of business. Part of the

LARRY WEITZMAN

STAR PARKER

State Parks promotes national grant program

SACRAMENTO — California

State Parks is inviting eligible public entities across California to apply for the federal Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program aimed at expanding access to outdoor recreation in underserved communities. In the eighth round of this competitive National Park Service grant program, approximately $120 million in funding is available nationwide and applicants may request up to $15 million per project. Applications are due by Aug. 28.

“Every community deserves spaces where they can gather, play and enjoy the outdoors,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “Grants like the ORLP help local agencies bring such spaces to life. We encourage eligible applicants to take advantage of this opportunity for the health and wellness of their community.”

The ORLP program supports

Letters Continued from A4

Hills ratepayers and to them sewer bills are higher than water bills?

This is the kind of governmental disproportional revenue application that fuels El Dorado Hills cityhood e orts.

park projects in communities with limited or no access to nearby public outdoor recreation. It supports the Newsom Administration’s Outdoors for All Initiative by helping reduce barriers for communities that have historically faced challenges accessing nature and outdoor recreation.

I further urge that you interrogate what growth assumptions sta have been put into capacity for the $174 million EDH treatment plant and how they compare to the 0.62% in sta ’s ﬁnancial plans. Will this be an overbuilding repeat of the 42,000 hookup capacity put in place 25 years ago for wastewater (vs. 26,000 actual

Parker Continued from A4 emergency beneﬁts of AM broadcasting.

Here’s what my ChatGPT search tells me: “AM signals can travel hundreds of miles, especially at night, allowing one station to cover large regions; High power AM stations often have back-up generators and hardened transmission facilities, allowing them to continue broadcasting when cellular networks, internet service, or local FM stations fail; Many AM stations are designated as Primary Entry Point stations. These stations are part of the national communications infrastructure and can broadcast presidential alerts and other emergency information during major disasters.”

Another ChatGPT search tells me that Americans are in their cars an average of one and a half to two hours per day.

Per the analysis, at any given moment, there are 25 million to 35 million Americans in their car.

Fortunately, national emergencies are rare. Soon we will be remembering the horror of Sept. 11, 2001.

Weitzman

Continued from A4 method used will be the Green New Deal reimposed, not because of climate, but for control.

9. End Western civilization. I’m sure Graham Platner doesn’t even know what Western civilization is.

10. Let’s not leave out the Supreme Court, which will get at least six new leftist judges to create the majority needed to back up DSA power and take away the power of the people. First to go will be the ﬁrst, second and ﬁfth amendments of U.S. Constitution, which are freedom of speech and religion, the right to have guns and the government taking of property without due process of law and just compensation.

11. Write e ectively, a new Constitution where the president and all judges are selected by the new, single house of Congress and be subordinate thereto. No more three branches of government and checks and balances. It will be one branch ruled by single house of Congress and the Speaker of the House will be king.

NPS has made signiﬁcant changes to eligibility in this round. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the program requirements and begin preparing their applications early.

wastewater customers in 2026) for which wastewater customers continue to ﬁnance debt service until hookups reach 42,000 another 25 years into the future?

Your continuing record for deﬁcient ﬁnancial oversight speaks for itself. The 2025 grand jury was absolutely correct.

Please stop “rubber-stamping” every spending proposal from sta and start performing your ﬁnancial ﬁduciary responsibilities to 44,000 ratepayers.

GREG PRADA EID board member,

2013-18

With the well-focused emphasis in our country on private life, it is vital to not lose sight of public concerns: attacks, natural disasters, etc.

Though these moments are rare, they are not nonexistent, and when they happen the costs are very, very high. It is vital that every American always has access to emergency information.

Car manufacturers — in particular, those manufacturing electric vehicles — argue that emissions from electric circuitry interfere with the AM signal and it is very costly to insulate against this. Given that most listeners today are getting their signals from sources other than AM, their conclusion is: Just get rid of the AM hardware.

The argument is strong. But the argument for backup and readiness for major emergencies that do occur is, I think, stronger.

Star Parker is founder of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and author of “Necessary Noise, How Donald Trump Inﬂames the Culture War and Why this is Good News for America” (Hachette 2019).

It appears that most, if not all members of the DSA, and many current Democrats, hate Israel (the only democracy in the Middle East). They support terrorists groups like Hamas and Hezbollah that hate Jews.

Modern Jew hating started with the National Socialist German Workers’ Party (shortened to Nazi). With the operative word being “socialist,” the Nazi Party wasn’t on the far right; it was actually on the far left. From Jan. 30, 1933 until May 8, 1945, the Nazis controlled everything about Germany. While some corporations survived, they operated under the strict direction of the Nazi Party. Any opposition was forcibly suppressed by the Schutzsta el, also known as the SS, the second most feared policing force in the 20th century — a small notch below the Gestapo. Antisemitism seems to be a contagion that binds the DSA, just as it did in Germany nearly 100 years ago.

must remember: Without

there is no such thing as democracy. Every communist/socialist country has failed and none were democracies.

Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.

Photo courtesy of California State Parks

Sweetwater Park in Chula Vista, created with the help of ORLP funding received by the Port of San Diego, opened in April 2025. Another round of funding is available to local agencies hoping to build their own community parks and outdoor recreation projects.

■ See GRANTS, page A8

COMICS

Four determined racers claim Carnett Clash wins

Livermore veteran

Shawn DeForest took the lead on lap five and went on to grab the $2,000 top prize with the Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models on Saturday at the Carnett Clash in Placerville.

Sharing victory lane at the Carnett Clash presented by Fords Only were Oakley’s Nick Baldwin, Clovis’ Dominic Gorden and Diamond Springs’ Kevin Jinkerson. A total of 82 cars filled the pit area on a warm summer day to begin the month of August at Placerville Speedway.

The 25-lap Kings Meats Ltd. Late Model finale saw Tyler Lightfoot charge into the lead and hold command over the initial four laps. Shawn DeForest then showed his muscle and blasted by to grab the top spot that he would never relinquish. All main events on Saturday saw numerous caution periods plague things, never allowing a flow to commence.

DeForest went on

ARIES (March 21-April 19). On the last day of Venus in Virgo, let go of overthinking. Going forward you’ll need more curiosity than certainty. There’s no reason to fear being seen for who you are right now, as-is, because fortune will favor your authenticity.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). As this Venus chapter draws to a close, let go of second-guessing yourself. Instinct over analysis is the way. And there’s no reason to fear making the first move, because your motion activates those around you to support you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). In these final moments of Venus in Virgo, let go of what merely functions. It’s got to delight you, too — otherwise you won’t keep coming back. A sustainable dynamic will be rich in both beauty and efficiency.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). As Venus packs her bags for Libra, let go of whatever stands in the way of accepting help. Is it your pride? Or are you worried there are strings attached? It’s better to take those risks and take the help that’s offered.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). As Venus changes the subject, let go of trying to impress anyone. Your warmth will accomplish what performance never could. The people meant for you will crave your attention, not your perfection. You make them feel seen, and that’s enough.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). As Venus leaves your sign, let go of believing every answer has to come from you. The next chapter is collaborative. Your greatest advantage won’t be knowing everything, but attracting people whose strengths naturally complement your own.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). As Venus returns home to your sign, let go of waiting to enjoy your life. Beauty isn’t a reward for finishing the work. It’s nourishment that helps you do the work with greater joy, confidence and generosity.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). As Venus heads home to Libra, let go of trying to read every hidden motive. Some people are exactly as kind as they appear. Curiosity will serve you well, and people will enjoy responding to your respectful questions.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). As Venus waves goodbye to Virgo, let go of perfection. Going forward, you’ll need more connection than correction. You may even come to the realization that something you called a “flaw” is what makes you irresistible.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). As the atmosphere softens, let go of measuring every opportunity by its immediate usefulness. From where you’re standing, it’s impossible to see how it will all come together. Trust that some of your most treasured future experiences will begin as today’s simple pleasures.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). As Venus slips into Libra, let go of assuming you have to do everything differently. Innovation often involves invention, but not always. Sometimes it’s about giving your unique take

to claim the Ed Entz checkered flag over Hard Charger Randy Shafer. Current point leader Rod Oliver, Ray

Bruins, Diamondbacks finishing football preseason workouts

Mike Bush

Mountain Democrat correspondent

Two El Dorado County high school football head coaches, whose teams will see each other in a scrimmage toward the end of August, have enjoyed watching the growth of their teams in preseason workouts in preparation for the 2026 season.

Ponderosa Bruins

In the last few weeks and prior to the section’s dead period, Bruins head coach Davy Johnson has kept his troops focused.

“We try to focus on basic football fundamentals throughout the spring, and then add more team time through June,” Johnson said. “By July, we like to have 80-90% of what we do installed and a depth chart set.”

The high school football season is long and grueling. Most programs start weight training sessions shortly after the previous season ends in November or December. Some will wait until after the Christmas and New Year’s break in January to return to pumping iron.

As spring rolls around the corner, the weight training continues. But added is work outdoors such as conditioning and, as Johnson pointed

out, installing the bulk of the offense and defense, plus special teams. But extra time off in the summer was good for the Bruin players and coaches.

“We always take an extra week off after the CIF (California Interscholastic Federation)/SJS dead period,” Johnson said. “It’s nice for the kids, families and coaches to get away from it all for three weeks. The season is long and it takes a toll on you physically and

mentally. Off time is important.

“When we come off of that break, we try and hit the ground running,” he continued. “We don’t expect kids to be in the same shape as they were before the three weeks off, but it doesn’t take long for them to get it back.”

During the 2025 season, Ponderosa went 6-5 overall with a 3-3 record in the Capital Valley Conference. The Bruins played one SJS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Courtesy photo

Bruin quarterback Colton Ridgley practices a pass during a preseason workout at Simon Bruin Stadium.

Photos courtesy of Positive Times Photography

Shawn DeForest’s team and supporters celebrate his victory at Placerville Speedway on Aug. 1.

Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

Dominic Gorden enjoys the spotlight in Victory Lane after his speedway win.

Trimble and Lightfoot completed the top five. A solid field of 18 cars competed at the Carnett Clash.

The Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks also saw a strong turnout of 21 cars from various tracks around the region. Veteran driver Scott Grunert climbed into the early lead and paced the field for over half of the race.

Seven-time track champion Baldwin rode along in second and challenged Grunert for several laps, before making his move in the latter stages. Baldwin dropped to the bottom of the speedway and sliced his way by to snag the lead on lap 17.

Baldwin went on to capture his 46th career Placerville Speedway win, which paid a cool $1,000. Grunert, Oroville Owens, Kevin Jinkerson and Clarence Holbrook completed the top five.

Colfax youngster Cole Croft took the lead at the waving of the green flag in the Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Car feature. Clovis’ Gorden didn’t waste long however and took command after a handful of laps were completed.

Gorden ran up front for the duration of the feature but had to withstand the relentless challenges from Croft as the race wound down. Gorden fended him off to record his fourth career Placerville Speedway win with Shane Hopkins, Justyn Cox, Jake Morgan and Andy Forsberg crossing the line behind them.

Croft had finished in the second spot but was placed as the last car on the lead lap due to not stopping at tech. A robust field of 29 Winged Sprint Cars competed on Saturday night.

Jinkerson moved out front in the Mountain Democrat Mini Truck feature and never looked back on way to the $400 victory. Brian Tremblay, Brycen Bragg, Noah LaPoint and Paizlee Miller filled out the top five.

Placerville Speedway returns to action with Red Hawk Resort + Casino Night this coming Saturday, Aug. 8.

Carnett Clash results

Thompson’s Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Cars: 1. 10-Dominic Gorden[2]; 2. 21-Shane Hopkins[4]; 3. 42X-Justyn Cox[6]; 4. 45-Jake Morgan[9]; 5. 92-Andy Forsberg[7]; 6. X1-Chance Grasty[17]; 7. 121-Caeden Steele[13]; 8. 7-Seth Standley[3]; 9. 93-Landon Henry[8]; 10. 00-Steel Powell[12]; 11. 56C-Carson Hammes[14]; 12. 5-Kenny Wanderstadt[18]; 13. 29-Cole Croft[1]; 14. 55D-Dawson Hammes[20]; 15. 7P-Jake Andreotti[15]; 16. 75-Tony Gomes[5]; 17. 15-Michael Sellers[10]; 18. 15AZ-Nick Parker[16]; 19. 26-Corbin Rueschenberg[11]; 20. 35-Sean Becker[19] Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models: 1. 72-Shawn DeForest[3]; 2. 28G-Randy Shafer[12]; 3. 57-Rod Oliver[8]; 4. 37-Ray Trimble[11]; 5. 23-Tyler Lightfoot[1]; 6. 22TL-Les Friend[15]; 7. 25-Paul Gugliomoni[9]; 8. 19K-Buddy Kniss[6]; 9. 72R-Ryan DeForest[17]; 10. 4X-Anthony Slaney[5]; 11. 57A-Andrew Odgers[14]; 12. 11-Adam Starkey[4]; 13. P31-Alan Pace[13]; 14. 22-Chris Mcginnis[2]; 15. 17Y-Tim Yeager[7]; 16. 54-Matt Davis[10]; 17. 2Y-Justin Yeager[16]; 18. (DNS) 10A-Forest Carnett Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks: 1. 17-Nick Baldwin[4]; 2. 14-Scott Grunert[3]; 3. 86-Oroville Owens[8]; 4. 30-Kevin Jinkerson[9]; 5. 2H-Clarence Holbrook[5]; 6. 42F-Les Friend[15]; 7. 25-Ryan Parkhurst[11]; 8. 43-Kenny Bernstein[2]; 9. 28K-Chester Kniss[12]; 10. 23-Tyler Lightfoot[7]; 11. 15A-Mike Lightfoot[10]; 12. 83-Ryan Peter[6]; 13. 92M-Matt Tilford[19]; 14. 64-Jaeger Ruckman[20]; 15. 316-Ryan Murphy[18]; 16. 8-George Silva[21]; 17. 77T-Jason Armstrong[13]; 18. 08-Jordan Schnakenberg[14]; 19. 9-Jason Emmot[16]; 20. 33-Nick Rhodes[17]; 21. 74-Russell Murphy[1] Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks: 1. 03-Kevin Jinkerson[5]; 2. 07-Brian Tremblay[3]; 3. 75-Brycen Bragg[8]; 4. 92N-Noah LaPoint[4]; 5. 26-Paizlee Miller[9]; 6. 7-Luke Costa[7]; 7. 76C-Bobby Clark[11]; 8. 369-Emmett Fanning[2]; 9. 21-Paige Miller[10]; 10. 22-Nick Perkins[13]; 11. 17-Landon Costa[14]; 12. 70-Jeremy Gregory[12]; 13. 28-Howard Miller[1]; 14. 16-Mike Miller[6]

Announcements

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

PLAY CRIBBAGE – Begins June 17, 2026 Join the Gold Country Cribbers, We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun, Wednesdays 11:30 AM –Summer Play, Steve’s Pizza – 3941 Park Dr #100, El Dorado Hills, CA, 916-212-2465 or 916-202-1762

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB: Come play tennis for fitness, fun & friendship. Meet at El Dorado HS tennis courts on Acacia St., Placerville, Wednesdays 9-11 except June -August, hours 9-11. Social activities & monthly tennis clinics. Some tennis ability required. Call Trisha 530-651-8121.

Grief support: Green Valley Community Church provides caring support through: • Grief share classes • Suicide loss support group • Memorials year round, Visit our website: www.greenvalley.church/outreach or call 530-622-3231.

Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA), for the CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on March 16, May 18, July 20, September 21, and November 16, 2026. The location is at the Denny’s Restaurant, 3446 Coach Lane in Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for information and programs.

DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530) 503-7400 or see edcdems.org for more information.

Do you have an announcement that you would like to include here? Contact Elizabeth Hansen (530) 344-5028 or ehansen@mtdemocrat.net

Continued from A5

Key details

Grant description: Helps support the acquisition and development of new parks and the substantial renovation of existing parks in urban communities.

Deadline: Applications must be submitted online by Aug. 28.

Grant amount: Up to $15 million per project.

Link: Visit the California State Parks ORLP webpage for information about the grant program and application process.

Criteria: Eligible projects must be located within an area with a population of at least 25,000 people. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, state agencies, federally recognized Native American Tribes, joint powers authorities where all

Crash

Continued from A1

El Dorado Hills Fire Truck 85, Engine 87, Medic 85 and Battalion 85 responded to the scene around 4:30 a.m. on July 31. Roughly 10 minutes prior, a 2015 Toyota Camry driven southbound by Daniel Burke, 22, of Foresthill had crossed into the northbound lane just past a creek overcrossing and collided with a

Funding Continued from A1

imminent threat to the natural environment, agriculture, economy and private and public property,” a county staff report notes.

“(Pierce’s disease) is considered one of the most devastating diseases of grapevines in the world. The bacterium that causes the disease, Xylella fastidiosa, kills grapevines within two to five years of infection,” the report continues. “There is no cure for Pierce’s disease. There are currently 274 properties of grape production within the county at risk from the recent GWSS detections.”

“Ongoing treatment in the area remains crucial because glassy-winged sharpshooters are still being found in monitoring traps. New infestation areas have also been identified within El Dorado Hills,” the staff report adds.

“These results indicate that the pest has not been fully eliminated and continues to pose a risk of spreading

Fees Continued from A3

members are public agencies, park districts and special districts with the authority to acquire, operate and maintain public park and recreation areas.

Application process

To help applicants in California prepare, State Parks will host two virtual workshops covering the ORLP application process:

• Aug. 5, 1-4 p.m.

• Aug. 6, 9 a.m.-noon

Applicants must first submit an application by Aug. 28 to California State Parks, which will then review and select the most competitive applications that best align with the goals and intent of ORLP. Selected applicants will then prepare a federal application to be submitted to NPS.

guardrail, CHP Officer Andrew Brown shared.

Drugs and alcohol have been ruled out as factors, he confirmed. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Burke was transported via ambulance to Marshall Hospital in Placerville for treatment.

Pierce’s disease to vineyards and other vulnerable crops within our county. Continuing treatment efforts is vital to prevent population growth, limit the spread and ultimately achieve complete eradication before the pest becomes established and impacts the county’s grape industry.”

The total crop value for grapes in El Dorado County was $8,102,754 in 2024 with 82 distinct varietals planted, according to the most recent El Dorado County Wine Grape Survey available.

The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors accepted the state funding at its July 27 meeting. The agenda item was part of the consent calendar, approved 4-0. Board President Brooke Laine and Supervisors Greg Ferrero, George Turnboo and Lori Parlin were present. Supervisor Brian Veerkamp was absent from Tuesday’s meeting.

and replacing it with a newer system at Harvey West Cabin and re-paving the Meiss Trailhead parking lot. The Forest Service also intends to develop a recreation site at the Potholes and add a vault toilet to the Bassi Falls trailhead area, both of which are highuse areas.

Forest, Attention: Don Morrill, Forest Recreation Officer, 100 Forni Road, Placerville, CA 95667 or by email at don.morrill@usda.gov.

Increasing the capacity of the Wilderness Ranger Program will also be possible. These projects will help to improve visitor facilities and services, preserve natural and historical resources and facilitate recreation access across the forest. Recreation fees help provide quality recreation opportunities that meet the modern expectations of visitors and creates a more financially sustainable recreation program for future generations.

The public is invited to comment on the proposed recreation fee changes. The comment period is set to end by close of business on Sept. 29. To ensure comments are considered, send comments no later than Sept. 29 to Eldorado National

Football Continued from A6

Football - Division III playoff game as the No. 7 seed, playing at No. 2 Oakdale.

Ponderosa will scrimmage at Union Mine on Friday, Aug. 21. Then Bruins open the season against El Dorado High School’s team in the annual Gold Pan Game, which will be played at Simon Bruin Stadium in Shingle Springs on Friday, Aug. 28, followed by another home match up agaisnt Pleasant Grove of Elk Grove on Sept. 4. Ponderosa then goes on the road at Casa Roble of Orangevale and Granite Bay in non-league games. They open CVC action hosting Inderkum on Sept. 25.

Union Mine Diamondbacks

Diamondbacks head coach Brandon Pacheco is also pumped about the upcoming season.

“Every summer workout is built around the weight room, which is something we take tremendous pride in,” Pacheco said. “After lifting, we spend the remainder of our time on the field teaching base concepts and fundamentals.” Attendance was high during the

Oral comments must be provided in person at the Eldorado National Forest to Don Morrill during normal business hours (Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or by calling (530) 957-0740 and indicating the caller would like to provide comments on the proposed recreation fee changes. For more information visit fs.usda.gov/r05/eldorado.

Once public involvement is complete, these recreation fee changes will be reviewed by a citizen’s advisory committee. Committee members represent a broad array of recreation interest groups to help ensure that the Forest Service is proposing reasonable and publicly acceptable recreation fees. The committee will submit their recommendation to the regional forester for a final decision.

For a list of proposed fees by site visit fs.usda.gov/r05/eldorado and scroll down the page.

D-backs’ recent workouts.

“With 27 student-athletes on the varsity roster, we’ve averaged 92% daily attendance throughout the summer,” said Pacheco, “which speaks volumes about the players’ commitment to both the team’s success and their own development.

“Most make up (for) their missed workout with a coach on an off day,” he added. “This group has truly embodied ‘All In!’” Be it in the weight room or field, the coach noted bonding “before the grind of the season begins” is important to the team’s success.

During the 2025 season, Union Mine posted a 3-8 overall record, including a 2-5 mark in the Sierra Valley Conference. The Diamondbacks played a bowl game at Highlands, which won 78-30.

After the D-backs scrimmage with the Bruins, they open the season at home against Colfax High’s squad on Aug. 28 and then entertain Wheatland High’s team on Sept. 4. Union Mine closes out the preseason at Bear River in Lake of the Pines on Sept. 11 and opens SVC action in El Dorado on Sept. 25, hosting Galt High’s team.

Eagle Rooﬁng, said installing the new roof was challenging due to overhead wires in the front of the building and the narrow streets but the steepness on parts of the roof sometimes actually made it easier for roofers who were tethered in place.

“Once you get beyond a 12 and 12, it’s all the same. You can’t walk on it. It’s almost easier because when you get to a pitch like this the wall is closer to you and you’re not bent over as much,” he said.

Referring to the steep pitch of the roof, Church of Our Saviour’s project manager Steve Boilar shared, “Most of the outﬁts wouldn’t even give a bid on the building.”

“The roof was not leaking but the shingles were falling o ,” Boilard continued. “There were exposed patches and we knew for the last couple of years that it had to be replaced. When the project got started, we discovered that shingles were laid directly on old shake. I think that lead to the early deterioration of this roof. With a church this old, built in 1865, it is hard to know every step that’s happened in the past. We learned as we peeled o the whole roof.”

Tapping onto reserves

“We had to pull together some money to make this happen,” said Boilard. “There was a major donation from one of the parishioners and we basically cleaned out all of our our reserves. Anybody who supports this historical church is welcome to help us replenish our reserves,” he added.

The construction lasted around one month and the cost was around $130,000.

American Eagle Rooﬁng has worked on several historical buildings in Placerville and Coloma. The company also donated and installed the shake shingles on the Belltower on Main Street.

“When you pull o the old roofs, you see the old shake and that the foundation underneath is rough-sawn and you can see the saw marks from the mill. I geek out over it. It is so cool!” Kennedy said. When the church was built in 1865, Foreman Morales surmised the gaps in the skip sheeting would have allowed the roofers to put their toes in the gaps to retain their footing on the steep pitch and they would have used ropes to tether them in place.

“We found a hidden door in the bell tower when we were doing our inspection,” Kennedy said. “They would have used that to get o the roof when they were ﬁnished. Having the door access was a great help to the roofers on this project.”

Two layers of shingles were removed and all that remained of the roof was a ceiling of 1-inch thick slats milled from local trees in the 1800s. The underside of the slats make up the ceiling of the vaulted sanctuary. After removing the shake roof, the workers sheathed the entire roof with plywood to form a sound foundation for the new composition shingles.

City of Placerville o cials had to approve the color and the material as the church is on the register of historic places.

“You have to find some material that meets county code and because we need to have a class A product we have to go and talk to them. We have to have a UL 790 Class A fire rating,” Kennedy explained. “This is a cool roof product; it has reflective granules in it, so in places where you can’t put insulation, it gives us the opportunity to cool it down a little bit. and maintain the fire hardness it needs, especially in Placerville and it has a great warranty.”

The roof is non-

prorated for for 50 years, meaning it does not depreciate. Kennedy said if, after 49 years, all the shingles fell o , insurance would pay to remove, prep and reinstall at current cost.

“The roof should be good until the 300th birthday of America and it’ll still look good too,” shared Project Foreman Mario Sandoval of Diamond Springs.

“The pitch makes it so nothing’s gonna stay up there and it’s gonna last a long time.”

There were 11 people who worked directly on the roof and around 25 people had a hand in the project. The church remained open and conducted Sunday services and a Bible camp during the project.

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

A construction worker from American Eagle Roofing carries new sheeting to the job site on the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour on Coloma Street. Workers removed a shake roof and 30-yearold composition roofing in the month-long project.

A Warm Welcome Awaits You

Whether it’s the friendly neighbor who greets you each morning, a warm meal waiting for you, or a gathering that rekindles your spark, you’ll know from the very first day that at Eskaton Village Placerville that you belong.

The private cottages at Eskaton Village Placerville are our most highly sought after residences. These cottages for independent residents offer a maintenance-free lifestyle with all the convenience of a

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Aug. 5

Join American River Conservancy for Wednesday Workdays at Wakamatsu at 8 a.m. For more information visit arconservancy.org.

The Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center at 2675 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines will host Bingo at 5 p.m. For more information visit pollockpinesca.org.

All ages Rockstar Karaoke hosted by KJ Ari Galindo will take place, 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Aug. 6

St. Patrick Catholic Church, 3109 Sacramento St. in Placerville will host its 88th annual Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

The Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center at 2675 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines will host Tai chi at 10 a.m. and noon. For more information visit pollockpinesca.org.

Free nursing services are o ered from noon to 2 p.m. at the Georgetown Library. Call Hub 4 Navigator Rebecca to make an appointment, (530) 620-8175. Walk-ins are also welcome. Call the library to check for possible schedule changes.

Play Bingo at the Pilot Hill Grange. The doors open at 5 p.m., early bird begins at 5:30 p.m. and the event begins at 6 p.m. PHG is located at 1701 Highway 193 in Cool.

The Shingle Springs/ Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host its Monthly Networking Mixer at Wisegal Co ee, 4241 Mother Lode Drive, Shingle Springs from 5:30-7 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.

Check out Feud Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Miners Club in Georgetown. Guess the most popular answers, place your point wager and win! Teams are encouraged, but not required.

Open Mic and Bingo runs 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Troublemakers in Lotus.

El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Live on the Boulevard with Journey Unauthorized at 7 p.m. with gates open at 5:30 p.m. at the Marshall Amphitheater. For more information or to register on the online waitlist visit edhtowncenter.com.

Solo singer songwriter Kyle Kirch will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

El Dorado Musical Theatre presents “42nd Street” Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Aug. 7

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

The Rescue Community Center will host Friday Night Out from 5-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter. com.

Cultivating hope at Picnic in the Orchard

Annual fundraiser brings community together to celebrate Images of Hope's mission

Images of Hope News release

For many people facing cancer or other trauma, healing extends beyond medical treatment or crisis intervention.

Emotional support, creative expression and a sense of community can be just as important during recovery.

That philosophy is at the heart of Images of Hope El Dorado which is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate cancer and other traumatic life experiences through art, movement therapy and community connection.

The organization will celebrate that mission while raising funds for its free programs during its annual Picnic in the Orchard fundraiser from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Rainbow Orchards in Camino.

Proceeds from the event will help Images of Hope to continue o ering free programs that provide creative outlets, peer support and opportunities for healing for people a ected by cancer and other trauma throughout El Dorado County’s western slope.

Since its founding, Images of Hope has used the arts as a way to foster resilience and encourage hope during di cult times. Through art workshops, movement therapy, writing, community projects and other creative experiences, participants are given opportunities to share, process emotions and connect with others who have experienced similar challenges.

The organization's programs serve people of all ages, including individuals undergoing cancer treatment, survivors, caregivers and those recovering from other traumatic events. By creating welcoming spaces where participants can explore creativity without judgment, Images of Hope aims to reduce isolation while building conﬁdence and meaningful relationships.

Flagship event

Those programs are made possible through grants, donations, volunteers and community fundraising events such as Picnic in the Orchard. "The event is one of our most important fundraisers each year because it directly supports the programs we provide to local individuals and families facing cancer and other trauma," said Andrew Vonderschmitt board president. “Plus it brings together this community that has grown around Images and its mission to celebrate, commiserate and just enjoy one another's

company.”

The fundraiser returns to Rainbow Orchards, one of Apple Hill's longtime family-owned farms. Established in 1977, Rainbow Orchards has become a favorite destination for visitors seeking fresh produce, baked goods, apple cider and its signature hot apple cider doughnuts. While the farm is best known for its fall season, the August event o ers guests an opportunity to enjoy the orchard before the busy harvest begins.

Bill of fare

Guests will be treated to a catered dinner prepared by Chef John Sanders of Old Town Grill. Sanders, whose restaurant emphasizes fresh ingredients and seasonal ﬂavors, has built a reputation for showcasing locally sourced products whenever possible.

The menu will feature Southwestern chicken breast stu ed with ﬁreroasted peppers and herb cheeses, served atop ﬁeld greens with jicama, watermelon radish, black beans and corn, paired with an oregano-orange vinaigrette and garnished with crispy tortilla chips. The meal also includes a farmers market fresh fruit salad and Southwestern bruschetta served with Mediterranean toast points.

Using ingredients from local farms and producers reﬂects the event's focus on supporting the community while celebrating the agricultural heritage of El Dorado County.

“There’s a lot of great farmers [in El Dorado County] these guys put their heart and soul into this.” said Sanders. “We’re going to take advantage of that when we put the menu together.

“Images of Hope means everything, the

di erence that they make, but also you are supporting all these local vendors,” he added.

“We’re looking forward to seeing you there.”

A selection of local wines and non-alcoholic beverages will be available throughout the evening.

Entertainment

Live music will be provided by Hither & Yon, a regional folk and post-trad acoustic trio. Their sound is a reﬂection of traditional American and Celtic folkways and their shared love of wild nature and the poetry of dark ballads. The band is Alex Porte on guitar, banjo, whistle, and vocals; Elena DeLacy on ﬁddle and vocals; and Dustin Koupal on double bass and mandolin. Their live performance will accompany an afternoon of dining, conversation and fundraising.

"We wholeheartedly believe in the healing power of the arts, which is why we're delighted to bring some timeless folk and traditional music to this year's Picnic in the Orchard," said DeLacy.

Community Guests will also have opportunities to

participate in silent and live auctions featuring donated items, experiences and services from businesses and supporters throughout the region.

Auction proceeds, along with ticket sales and sponsorships, provide essential funding that allows Images of Hope to expand its programs and reach more individuals and families a ected by cancer and other trauma.

Community partnerships have long played an important role in the organization's success.

Local businesses donate goods and services, artists volunteer their talents and supporters contribute time and ﬁnancial resources to ensure programs remain accessible.

The annual fundraiser also provides an opportunity for attendees to learn more about Images of Hope's work and meet the volunteers, board members and community partners who help make that work possible. While the evening includes good food, live music and auctions, to Vonderschmitt its purpose goes beyond fundraising.

“It is an opportunity to bring people together in support of neighbors facing cancer and other trauma while ensuring Images of Hope can continue o ering programs that inspire creativity, connection and hope,” he said. As Images of Hope continues to grow, the organization remains committed to its mission of helping people ﬁnd strength through artistic expression and community support. Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured and auction item sold helps provide opportunities for healing and encouragement for local residents when they need it most.

Picnic in the Orchard will be held from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Rainbow Orchards, 2560 Carson Road in Camino. Proceeds beneﬁt Images of Hope El Dorado and ensures its programs serving individuals and families a ected by cancer and other trauma remain free and available to all. To learn more about Images of Hope visit imagesofhopeeldorado. com. To purchase tickets to Picnic in the Orchard visit givebutter.com/ IOHPicnicTickets.

Courtesy photos

The Picnic in the Orchard, Aug. 15 at 4 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards in Camino, will offer the community a chance to gather, support a vital cause, enjoy locally sourced food with cuisine from John Sanders and locally grown entertainment with Hither & Yon, below.

Labyrinth unveiled at Faith Episcopal Church

News release

Faith Episcopal Church invites community members to experience its new labyrinth, a traditional contemplative medium used to create a sacred time and space to pray, meditate and reflect through the act of walking.

The labyrinth is located on the patio of the church at 2200 Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. The public is invited to

walk the labyrinth at any time during the day or evening. Guided labyrinth walks are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.

The seven-circuit design is 28 feet across and painted in elaborate swirls with rust and tan tones on flat concrete, making it accessible to wheelchair users.

A helpful information card is available on site for people who wish to visit the Faith Labyrinth on their own. The guidelines explain that meandering through the labyrinth and the rhythmic turning helps to relax the body, quiet the mind and refresh the heart.

“Anyone can use a labyrinth no matter your spiritual or religious background,” said Rev. Tom Gartin, Rector of Faith Episcopal Church. “You simply put one foot in front of the other until you find the center of the labyrinth. There is no false choice and no false path — only one way to go and wisdom in each step.”

Gartin recommends bringing a concern or asking God a question as you enter the labyrinth. The design is a modern reinterpretation of the medieval Chartres Cathedral in France, which has hosted countless practitioners for over 800 years.

Church members Kathleen and Tom Smith commissioned renowned labyrinth artist Lars Howlett to create the Faith Labyrinth.

“I walked the labyrinth at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco,” Smith said. “It was my first labyrinth walk, and it calmed my mind and brought an inner peace. I immediately wanted to see if we could help bring a labyrinth to Faith Church for the community to enjoy and Rev. Tom was very receptive.”

Each labyrinth

News release

Senior Helpers Cameron Park will host a series of free educational workshops, caregiver support groups and dementia awareness events throughout August and September designed to support family caregivers, older adults and those living with memory loss.

The events include caregiver support groups in Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills and Folsom, brain fitness workshops for seniors, Virtual Dementia Tours and educational classes focused on dementia care.

August events

The August schedule begins with a free faith-based Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment Group from 1-2:30 p.m. Aug. 11 at Foothills Church, 2380 Merrychase Drive in Cameron Park. The support group is open to caregivers, while a supervised respite activity program for individuals with memory loss will feature an art and inspirational discussion led by Artisan Mind. New participants should register by calling (916) 461-4123.

A "Moments for the Mind: Brain Fitness for Seniors" workshop will be held from 1-2:15 p.m. Aug. 17 at the Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane in El Dorado Hills. Participants will take part in interactive brain games, memory exercises and problemsolving activities

experience is different, Gartin said. What is important is to take your time and listen to the thoughts, feelings and messages that surface.

“It is amazing that you can create so many emotions in such a small place,” said Faith

designed to support cognitive health. All materials and water will be provided.

A Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment Group will meet from 1-2:30 p.m. Aug. 19 at Town Square of Folsom, 9580 Oak Ave. Parkway, Suite 4B. The respite program will feature live music by Little Bit of Fiddle. Registration is required for new respite participants.

Senior Helpers will also offer a 30-minute Virtual Dementia Tour from noon to 4 p.m. Aug. 20. The immersive experience is designed to help participants better understand the sensory and cognitive challenges faced by people living with dementia. Sessions are available by reservation.

The August schedule concludes with a Caregiver Support Group from 10:30 a.m. to noon Aug. 27 at the Gilmore Senior Center. The group provides support and connection for care partners of individuals living with dementia.

September events

September programming begins with "The Resilient Caregiver" class from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Sept. 1 at Town Square of Folsom. The monthly educational class offers practical strategies for managing dementiarelated behaviors while helping caregivers reduce stress and avoid burnout. Reservations are requested.

On Sept. 8, a faithbased Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment

parishioner Jim Borup.

“While it looks simple, it takes patience to get to the center and you have to have faith, knowing that you are on the right path.” For more information visit faithec.org/ labyrinth.

Group will meet from 1-2:30 p.m. at Foothills Church. The respite program will feature music by the Camptown Ladies Americana group.

Later that day, from 5:30-6:30 p.m., the Frontotemporal Degeneration Association Caregiver Support Group will meet at Town Square of Folsom. The free group is designed specifically for family caregivers supporting loved ones living with frontotemporal degeneration. A second Virtual Dementia Tour will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 17. The free, 30-minute experience provides participants with greater insight into the daily realities of dementia through a guided sensory simulation. Advance reservations are required.

Another Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment Group will be held from 1-2:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at Town Square of Folsom. The respite program will feature an adaptive art class led by Artisan Mind along with additional activities for guests with memory loss.

The September schedule concludes with a Caregiver Support Group from 10:30 a.m. to noon Sept. 24 at the Gilmore Senior Center. All Senior Helper events are free. For more information or to register, call Senior Helpers Cameron Park at (916) 461-4123 or email jerdman@ seniorhelpers.com.

Courtesy photos

Rev. Tom Gartin, Rector of Faith Episcopal Church, walks the labyrinth’s path, above. Below, The labyrinth guide shares information with guests who want to take the journey.

Uniting around a bold promise

Curtis Wise

El Dorado County Office of Education

County leaders from education, health care, social services, nonprofits, public safety and community organizations gathered June 17 for the Commission for Youth and Families’ LIFT Together event, united around a bold promise: Every child and youth has a champion and mentor in their corner.

The event brought together partners from across El Dorado County to explore how existing community connections can become a stronger navigational network for children, youth and families seeking support. Through presentations, activities and community dialogue, participants examined how trusted adults — from coaches and teachers to neighbors, faith leaders and volunteers — can help connect young people to resources before challenges become crises.

The gathering builds on years of work by the Commission for Youth and Families to create a “No Wrong Door” system that allows families to access support regardless of where they first seek help.

“Every child deserves to know there is someone in their corner who believes in them, advocates for them and helps connect them to opportunities and support,” said Dr. Ed Manansala, El Dorado County superintendent of schools. “At the heart of our work is a promise that no child should have to navigate life’s challenges alone. By bringing together schools, agencies, community organizations and caring adults, we are creating a county where every young person has a champion and mentor they can count on.”

Building a network

Throughout the day, participants reviewed findings from the county’s Leading Indicators for Future Thriving, or LIFT, initiative, which gathers input directly from youth and families. A consistent theme emerged across multiple community engagement cycles: When children, youth and caregivers need help, they often turn first to someone they know and trust rather than a formal service provider.

That insight is shaping the Commission’s next phase of work: building a connected network of champions and mentors who can help families find the resources they need. To move this vision forward, the Commission is forming a work group with representatives from mentoring programs, faith communities and nonprofits to identify strategies and next steps to ensure every child has a mentor and a champion.

“The voices of youth and families have been remarkably clear,” said Deanna Santana, director of Child, Family, and Community Services.

“People turn to trusted

relationships first. Our challenge is making sure those caring adults — whether they’re coaches, relatives, neighbors, teachers or volunteers — have the tools, information and connections needed to help a child or family access support when it matters most.”

Chris Proctor, director of community benefit and business development, added, “This format was really helpful in establishing connections throughout the county. This event had the perfect cadence: collaborating at our tables to understand real case studies, identify gaps in care and acknowledge all the great partners we have in El Dorado County. I left with the feeling that we have the right partners wanting to do the right thing for the youth of our county, and I was excited to see what we can do next.”

Jude Wood, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe, said, “It takes a village to raise a child, and LIFT and the Commission for Youth and Families are creating a countywide village that can serve every need of our children and ensure that they get the love, care and support they need to not just survive but thrive.”

Next steps

The event also previewed a new countywide Community Resource Guide that launched in July. The guide is designed to serve as a centralized, continuously updated resource to help residents and community champions connect families to services and support across El Dorado County. It is available at edcoe.org/resources.

Participants concluded the day by beginning development of a blueprint for a countywide network of

champions and mentors.

The Commission will synthesize input gathered during the event and convene a Champion and Mentor Work Group to continue shaping the initiative over the coming year.

“Our greatest investment is in the children of our community,” said El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf.

“Through the LIFT Together initiative, we are strengthening partnerships between community leaders, educators, businesses, nonprofits and public safety to ensure every child has an all-in mentor and someone who believes in them. When we work together, we create opportunities that allow kids to enjoy the kind of childhood every young person deserves, one filled with support, meaningful relationships, great memories and hope for the future. I am honored to stand alongside our community partners as we work together to make that promise a reality for every child in El Dorado County.”

The effort aligns with the Commission’s 202429 Strategic Plan and its vision of creating a coordinated, informed system in which youth and families receive the support they deserve and where every door is the right door for those seeking help.

About the Commission for Youth and Families

The El Dorado County Commission for Youth and Families brings together public agencies, schools, community organizations and residents to improve outcomes for children, youth and families through collaboration, shared leadership and systems integration. The Commission’s mission is to ensure there is no wrong door

Courtesy photo

Participants discuss the needs of youth, families and the community at the collaborative table discussions.

Norden Train Tunnels at Donner

Thanks to Theodore Judah's obsession to route trains through the Sierra Nevada, we get to enjoy the Norden tunnels. Maybe that's a stretch — but not really.

Judah found a way, and Track No. 1 was in use for 125 years before being decommissioned in 1993. The tunnels and snow sheds were designed to help keep the tracks clear of rocks and snow. Today, tunnels No. 6, No. 7 and No. 8 are a tourist attraction, a canvas for street artists and a unique 1-mile trail for hikers.

You can't argue with the view. We enjoy watching rock climbers scale the nearby granite walls, while distant vistas of snowcapped peaks, Donner Lake and the ever-changing graffiti inside the tunnels offer a striking contrast.

In the heat of summer, we come here for relief.

When flowers fade and grasses turn brown at lower elevations, spring still thrives at this higher elevation. Penstemons and spreading phlox are favorites. If you just want to see the tunnels, it's an easy 2-mile round trip on the out-and-back trail. If you're up for

phone lights won't last long. The gravel floor is uneven, so sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Mary West is the author of the Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guidebook series. Her work has earned multiple recognitions. Her books are available on

Mary West Outdoor columnist

Photo by Mary West

Peppery pear salsa!

Break out of your belief that all salsas must start with tomatoes. El Dorado County growers in Apple Hill produce a wonderful variety of fruits, so take advantage of that abundance. This salsa recipe combines pears and peppers with an interesting blend of spices and comes from the "Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving" (2024).

Peppery pear salsa

Makes about six halfpint jars or three pint jars

Ingredients

• 1 cup white vinegar

(5% acidity)

• 8 cups coarsely chopped, cored and

peeled pears*

• 3 red bell peppers, seeded and coarsely chopped

• 3 green bell peppers, seeded and coarsely chopped

• 1 cup sugar

• 2 tablespoons canning salt

• 2 teaspoons dry mustard

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Prepare a boilingwater canner or atmospheric steam canner. Heat cleaned jars in the canner until ready to use. Do not boil; keep water at a simmer (180 F). Wash lids in warm, soapy water and set aside with bands.

In a large, deep stainless-steel saucepan, combine the vinegar and pears. Add the red and green peppers, sugar, salt, mustard, turmeric, allspice and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat and boil gently, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened, about ﬁve minutes.

Ladle the hot salsa into a hot jar, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Remove air bubbles and adjust the headspace, if necessary. Wipe the jar rim clean. Center the lid on the jar. Apply the band and tighten to ﬁngertip tight. Place the jar in the canner. Repeat until all jars are ﬁlled.

Water must cover jars by at least 1 inch in a boiling-water canner or come to the base of the rack in a steam canner. Adjust the heat to medium-high, cover the canner and bring the water to a rolling boil in a boiling-water canner or until there's a steady stream of steam coming from the steam canner for one minute. Process both half-pint

Olde Coloma Theatre presents “The Watered-Down Saloon” or “A Trip Out West” through Aug. 23. For more information visit oldecolomatheatre.com.

Jonny Mojo Band will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Lynsey and Prime Country will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “Wolf Play” through Aug. 29. For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre. org.

Main Street Theatre Works at the Kennedy Mine Amphitheatre in Jackson presents “Wonder of the World” through Sept. 5. For tickets and more information visit mstw.org.

Aug. 8

The Marshall Grange hosts a Two-Day Flea Market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring local artisans, small businesses and free hot dogs at 4940 Marshall Road, Garden Valley.

People’s Mountain Market takes place 9 a.m. to noon at Garden Valley Park, Garden Valley through mid-October. Enjoy live music with Frenchie & the Suck It Up Buttercups.

Boutique Vineyard Market with local artisan vendors will take place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hart 2 Hart Vineyards in Pilot Hill.

Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host Rosé Slushies and Misters on the Patio Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5p.m. For more information visit shadowranch.com.

Join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra for its BIG Gala at Saureel Vineyards, 1140 Cold Springs Road in Placerville from 5-9 p.m. For more

information visit bbbsns.org.

Sierra Vista Winery will host Food, Wine and Live Music with Ctrl Alt Delete from 5-8 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.

Toogood Winery Tasting Room in Fairplay will host a Private Port Tasting in the Toogood Wine Cave on Saturday and Sunday beginning at 11:30 a.m. For more information visit toogoodwinery. com.

Listen Hear Band will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.

Matt Rainey performs at the Georgetown Hotel on Main Street in Georgetown.

Suika T performs 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Troublemakers in Lotus.

Jazz Gitan Trio performs at 6 p.m. at Marco’s in Lotus.

Harlan will perform, 8-11 p.m.

at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

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

Shane Dwight will perform at 7 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheater.com.

Aug. 9

The Veterans Memorial Building Council will host its Veterans Breakfast from 8-11 a.m. Proceeds support the work and initiatives at the Veterans Memorial Building in Placerville.

Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host Live Music and WoodFired Pizzas with Zach Olmos at 1 p.m. For more information visit shadowranch.com.

Sierra Vista Winery will host Sunday Brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.

The Geoffrey Miller Band will perform at 2 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery. com/live-music.

Hither & Yon will perform, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Poor Red’s in El Dorado will host Lo Gents, a rock, blues and funk experience from 4-7 p.m. For more information visit poorreds.com.

Join American River Conservancy for an Introduction to Pottery and Wheel Throwing Class from 6-8 p.m. Registration required. For more information

visit arconservancy.org.

Word of Mouth Storytelling hosted by Amber “Lucky” Stann: “When the World Stopped; Stories from the Time of COVID” will take place, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

West Coast Performing Arts Concerts presents Motown Mania! at 3 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter. net.

Now

Tickets are now available for Images of Hope’s annual Picnic in the Orchard featuring cuisine from John Sanders of Old Town Grill, musical entertainment from Hither & Yon and silent and live auction opportunities taking place on Aug. 15, 4-8 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards, 2569 Larsen Drive in Camino. For tickets and more information visit imagesofhopeeldorado.com.

Tickets are available for Ag in the Classroom’s 20 Mile Taste which takes place Aug. 29 from 4-7 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards, 2569 Larsen Drive in Camino. For more information visit agintheclass-edc.org.

Placerville Arts Association is holding an Open Call to Artists for its 60th National Mother Lode Art Exhibition to take place Nov. 5-21 at Mills Station Arts & Culture Center, 10191 Mills Station Road, Rancho Cordova. Call open through Sept. 16. For more information visit placervillearts.com.

Arts and Culture El Dorado will host Rubicon Rising through Aug. 16. at the Switchboard Gallery, 525 Main St. in

canner, let the canner sit

for

then remove the

Remove the jars and cool on a towellined surface for 12 to 24 hours. Check the lids for a

Label, date and store in a cool, dark place. Bartlett, Bosc, Anjou and Comice pears are best. Keiffer is acceptable. Seckel pears are suitable for pickled products.

Placerville. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.

The El Dorado Hills Arts Association will host its Membership Show, Perspectives, at The Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom through Aug. 20. For more information visit eldoradohillsarts.com.

Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Hot August Days through Sept. 20. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

Tickets are available for Fairytale Town’s Tales and Ales to take place Aug. 22 from 5-9 p.m. in Sacramento. For more information visit fairytaletown. org.

Broadway at Music Circus presents “Hell’s Kitchen” through Aug. 9 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento. com.

Folsom History Museum presents Ride ‘Em Cowboy –the Folsom Rodeo Exhibition through Jan. 4, 2027. Learn more at folsomhistory.org.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Gleefully Askew: A Gladys Nilsson Retrospective through Nov. 29; Suzanne Adan — I’m No Spring Chicken through Oct. 11; Hot Takes: New Acquisitions in

Want to learn more about making salsas or pepper jellies? Register for the upcoming free public class on Saturday, Aug. 15, at the BethellDelfino Agriculture Building in Placerville. For more information about UC Master Food Preserver classes, events and food preserving resources visit ucanr. edu/site/ucce-masterfood-preservers-centralsierra.