Mountain Democrat sta
Ready for spectacular fun celebrating the USA’s 250th birthday?
The Cameron Park Community Services District’s Summer Spectacular brings family fun and fireworks to Cameron Park Lake on Saturday, June 27. Wristbands are on sale now at the following Cameron Park locations: Community Center, Fork Lift, Bel Air (cash only) and Grocery Outlet. Visit
cameronpark.org for details.
The Summer Spectacular is Cameron Park’s biggest community celebration of the year — a day of fun, food and festivities capped with a dazzling show. Parking is available at the lake for those who arrive early. The district also received an El Dorado Air Quality Management District Grant for shuttles. Satellite parking will be available at the following locations:
• Pleasant Grove Middle School, 2540 Green Valley Road, Rescue
• Marshall Medical Center, 3581 Palmer Drive, Cameron Park • Cameron Park Community Services District, 2502 Country Club Drive, Cameron Park
The buses will travel to the satellite parking lots once every hour starting at 4 p.m. and ending at 11 p.m. to take guests to/from Cameron Park Lake. The drop-o location
Shelly Thorene
Sta writer
The El Dorado High School
Cougars defeated Point Loma 3-1 after a 25-15, 23-25, 25-20, 25-20 victory in the 2026 Boys Division IV CIF State Volleyball Championship at Fresno City College on May 30. Coach Jim Curtis’ Cougars won the championship with a four-set victory over the San Diego Pointers of Point Loma High School to secure the first State Championship for the SacJoaquin Section.
Cougar head coach Jim Curtis said the win was “unprecedented in El Dorado High School’s history. We’ve never won any
‘Deer’
other state title besides Alpine skiing.” He added, “It was quite the event. The boys came on strong in the beginning. They prepared ahead of time by watching videos of the Pointers. They were in a good mind set to work as a team and stay humble.”
The team’s first set was strong but there were service and attack errors in the second set that cost them. “They were behind by 7 points but came back and ended up losing by 2 points. It is not uncommon for the team as they did this in the section championship as well. We had some key blocks. Christian Randolph on o ense helped motivate the team,” Curtis said.
“The team was disciplined and served to passers with weaknesses on the opposing team. Our Libero, Austin Houser really took on the role of defense specialist. It is important that the Libero is consistent and mixes it up in serves to other players. He got four ace serves which the opposing team was unable to handle and was the top player in the match. He served the last winning point.” Curtis also praised junior middle hitter Finn Hornsby who made some very strong blocks and kill shots.
“We had a lot of support from fans, families and other coaches,” said Curtis. “It was a wonderful experience for us.”
Andrew Vonderschmitt Features editor
For more than two decades, if someone in El Dorado County found an injured or orphaned fawn, there was a good chance they called “Deer” Dave Cook.
At all hours of the day and night, Cook answered calls from worried residents, sheriff’s dispatchers and wildlife lovers trying to help a distressed animal. Over 26 years with Sierra Wildlife Rescue’s fawn rehabilitation program, he became the public face of one of California’s largest and most respected fawn rescue operations.
Now, Cook is stepping back from that role.
“I’m retiring from the public face,” Cook said. “But my experience and knowledge are still available to the new volunteers and the new folks doing the work should they encounter something where I could be helpful.”
For Cook, retirement does not mean walking
Richard “Uncle Fuzzy”
Dorman Mason
April 14, 1946 – May 11, 2026
Richard “Uncle Fuzzy”
Dorman Mason, beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and community fixture, was born on April 14, 1946, to Edmund and Lydia Mason. He grew up in Redwood City, California, carrying with him a lifelong pride as a fourth-generation Californian.
Richard served his country as a member of the United States Air Force, and later earned his degree in Business from Cal State Hayward (now Cal State East Bay). He built a long and respected career as an Enrolled Agent, serving his community for nearly 50 years, and also held a real estate broker’s license. But beyond his professional accomplishments, it was Richard’s personality, generosity, and unmistakable presence that made him truly unforgettable.
Known fondly as “Uncle Fuzzy” for his thick white beard and warm spirit, Richard brought magic wherever he went—convincing countless El Dorado County children that Santa Claus might just spend the off-season teaching gold panning. He was a familiar and cherished figure at local schools, fairs, and the Veterans Hall, where he enthusiastically shared his love of history and hands-on learning.
Richard gave deeply of himself to others. For over four decades, he touched countless lives as a devoted sponsor in Alcoholics Anonymous, offering steady support, encouragement, and compassion. His kindness and authenticity left a lasting impact on many who crossed his path.
Together with his wife, Joyce Mason, Richard traveled the world competing in gold panning championships, forming lasting friendships along the way. He was proud to help bring the 2016 World Gold Panning Championship to El Dorado County, further reflecting his passion for both community and adventure.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Mason; his children Nikki Bowe, Michael Bowe, Tanya Bowe, Dyana Mason, and Amy Davidson; and his grandchildren Thea and Heather Davidson, Zach Norman, and Lucas and Teo Mason-McGinnis. His legacy of warmth, humor, and generosity lives on through all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Green Valley Community Church on Thursday, July 16th at 1:00 PM.
Dale “Senior” Martin Carter, Sr.
Feb. 28, 1945 – May 15, 2026
Dale “Senior” Martin Carter, Sr., age 81, passed away peacefully at his home on May 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Dale was born on February 28, 1945, in Menlo Park, CA, to Ernest and Joy Carter, and was one of five children.
Dale spent his childhood enjoying the outdoors and learning the value of hard work. The family had a cabin at Bass Lake and Dale spent many summers fishing and water skiing there. In 1965, Dale married the love of his life, Sue. Together they would build a successful business and a strong, loving family. In 1976, Dale moved his young family to Camino, CA, in search of a better life and greater opportunities. This move also brought the family closer to the mountains that they so enjoyed.
In 1983 Dale opened Carter’s Garden & Pet Supply (commonly referred to as “The Nursery”) in Placerville where he and his wife worked side by side until their retirement in 2007. Around the garden center Sue simply referred to Dale as “Senior”. The nickname stuck and family, friends and customers fondly referred to him as such for the remainder of his life. He enjoyed sharing his extensive plant knowledge and passion for gardening with all who visited the nursery. His love for the outdoors extended beyond gardening, as he also enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting throughout his life. Even into his 80s, Dale could often be found tending to his garden and appreciating the simple beauty of nature.
Dale was a devoted husband and father whose quiet strength, DIY knowledge, and unwavering dedication to family will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Dale was also a true patriot who had a deep love for our country.
Dale is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sue Carter; his children, Dale Carter Jr. (Nicole), Dean Carter (Karen), and Deanna Harris (Heath); along with 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
A private celebration of life will be held for friends and family.
Oct. 14, 1952 – March 21, 2026
“The Marble Man lost his marbles!”
Gerald “Jerry” William Arnold, age 73, passed away on March 21, 2026, at the home of his son and daughter-in-law. He was born on October 14, 1952, in Antioch, California, to Paul and Eleanor Arnold.
Jerry is survived by his children: Jason Arnold and Alyssa Hellesvig; and by his nephew, Josh Moore. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 5 great-granddaughters, as well as his beloved cat, Rusty.
Jerry served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and went on to build a lifelong career as a carpenter. He was known for his distinctive personality, quick wit, and a sense of humor that made him unforgettable. Later in life he became known as the “Marble Man,” handing out marbles on Main Street, at yoga, the grocery store, doctor’s appointments, and anywhere else life took him. He called it a “small act of human kindness,” and it became a signature part of who he was.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pavilion at Henningsen Lotus Park on Saturday, June 20th. Please arrive at 12:30 PM; the service will begin at 1:00 PM.
Lois Wells
March, 1936 – May, 2026
Lois Juanita Wells (Parnell, formerly Cederberg) was born in Pocola, Oklahoma, in March of 1936 to the late Claud Harvey and Agnes Juanita (Steelman) Parnell. She passed away in Placerville, California, at the age of 90.
Lois had a warm heart and independent spirit, enjoyed art in all it’s forms, read widely and expressed herself creatively through sewing, cooking and design. She believed “no learning is ever wasted”. Lois was a natural athlete and excelled at track and field and in tennis. After high school she trained as a dental assistant then later branched out into retail sales which she particularly enjoyed.
Lois’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her daughter, Karen Parker (husband Jeffery); granddaughters Afton Sutherland (husband Andrew) and Kara Fletcher (husband Daniel); her cherished great-grandchildren Aliyah, Emmelie and Mason; many nieces and nephews, sister-in-law and dear friends.
“Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.” — Rabindranath Tagore.
Please contact the family for celebration of life details.
Katherine JoAnn LePere
March 23, 1930 – Feb. 12, 2026
JoAnn LePere went home to be with the Lord on February 12, 2026 at her home in Cameron Park, Calif., surrounded by family. She was almost 96. A long-time resident of El Centro, Calif., she moved to Cameron Park in 2002. While in the Imperial Valley, she taught Physical Education at Central Union High school for 20 years. Promoting physical fitness was a part of her everyday professional and personal life that began in her college years.
JoAnn was active in P.E.O both in El Centro and Cameron Park. The organization promotes educational opportunities for women. She held several chapter offices and participated in national conferences over the years.
She served as a deacon at the El Dorado County Federated Church of Placerville. She loved Jesus and lived that relationship out in her kindness to others.
JoAnn will forever be remembered as the center of our family. A wife of 73 years to Chuck. A mother to LuAnn (Jack), Kelly (Susan) and Kyle (Mitzi). A grandmother to Katie, Kay, Nicole, Jay, Jackie and Joel. A great-grandmother to 6 and counting. Her great joy was to be surrounded by family, on a camping trip, on holidays or just watching Jeopardy on TV.
She is preceded in death by her husband Charles B. “Chuck” LePere, father Walter E. Herbst and Mother Leona Lucille Herbst, sisters (and their spouses) Nancy Meloeny (Gene), Norma Keesee(Dennis) and son-in-law Jack Hurley. She is survived by one sister, Terry Beebe (Ralph).
A Memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 27 at the Federated Church in Placerville, Calif. with a reception to follow.
In memory of JoAnn, please direct donations to one of these charities that were important to her: El Dorado County Federated Church, 1031 Thompson Way, Placerville, CA 95667
Food Bank of El Dorado County
P.E.O, Cottey College
Sept. 15, 1934 – May 28, 2026
Born September 15, 1934, James Veerkamp passed away May 28, 2026, at the age of 91.
Jim was the first of four boys born at the Placerville Sanitorium to Alice & Maurice Veerkamp of Placerville. At that time the family lived in the Gold Hill area. He attended first grade at Gold Hill Grammar School and later Placerville Grammar School.
His folks purchased a home on Elm Street in Placerville. At this time Jim’s father purchased Pino Vista Dairy on Main Street Placerville. All four boys took their turns working at the dairy, waiting on customers and delivering ice & dairy products in town and stores along Highway 50 up to Echo Summit. He grew up seemingly with a wrench in his hand. He was a natural born mechanic. Gasoline or diesel, he figured out how it ran and could repair them all.
Jim graduated from El Dorado High School in 1953. In 1955 he married Barbara Wagner of Coloma. Son Doug was born in 1956 followed by son Brian in 1958.
During Jim’s career he began working in the construction field, first with Joe Vicini, then on to being a heavy equipment mechanic for Peter Kiewit Inc., during the construction of Ice House dam & Union Valley dam in the Crystal Basin of the Eldorado National Forest in the late 1950s and early 1960’. In the mid 1960s he and Barbara opened up Veerkamp’s Garage on Lower Main Street of Placerville, repairing cars, trucks and tractors of all makes & models. They successfully operated that until 1973.
When the heavy equipment & trucks of Joe Vicini Inc., beckoned his call, he returned to work for Joe & Gordon until 1984. He retired from Vicini’s to go back out on his own once again, this time operating as a mobile mechanic out of his now infamous old blue Ford 1-ton service truck. He kept plenty busy repairing tractors and equipment for many farmers in Apple Hill and ranches throughout El Dorado County.
As his two sons were going through high school, the entire family became involved in Motocross dirt bike racing. Jim was the mechanic on the bikes that Doug and Brian excelled on for many years, and Barbara was always there to support her two racing heroes by keeping track of their positions and double checking the official’s results. It was a great family time and so many memories were made.
Jim was an avid buck hunter when he was a young man as well as stream fisherman for trout. He was a past member of the Hangtown Model A Club, as well as nearly 70 years with Operating Engineers Local #3.
Jim was predeceased by his parents, Alice & Maurice Veerkamp, and his brother Ken. He is survived by brother Bruce Veerkamp (Adele) of Orangevale, brother Maurice Jr (Mo) Veerkamp (Sheila) of Victor, Montana, son Doug Veerkamp (Lori) of Placerville, son Brian Veerkamp (Lori) of Placerville, their mother Barbara Veerkamp of Placerville, Grandchildren Loni Brewster (Justin) of Pilot Point Texas, Matt Veerkamp (Gretchen) of Placerville, Tiffany Spencer (Chad) of Clovis, Rashell Hawkinson (Andrew) of Placerville as well as 10 Great Grandchildren.
We want to thank his wife Evie Veerkamp and her son David McIntosh for their love and care in his final years.
He was a long-time member of Saint Patrick Catholic Church of Placerville where services will be held, Thursday June 11, 2026. Rosary at 10:30 followed by service at 11:00 am with reception to follow.
to
p.m. (530) 622-1255 / Fax: (530) 622-7894 Toll-Free from El Dorado Hills: (888) 622-1255 Chief Operating Officer
T. Burt McNaughton (530) 344-5055 tbmcnaughton@mtdemocrat.net
EDITORIAL STAFF Noel Stack Editor 530-344-5073 / nstack@mtdemocrat.net
Mimi Escabar Special Sections Editor
/ mescabar@mtdemocrat.net Andrew Vonderschmitt
/ andrewv@mtdemocrat.net
Shelly Thorene Staff writer 530-344-5063 / sthorene@mtdemocrat.net
GRAPHICS
Letty Bejarano-Carvajal Graphics Manager (530) 344-5049 / lettyb@mtdemocrat.net Click “Staff Directory” at
SB Construction – Sammy Breazile
herbicides, pesticides, or chemical fertilizers, and prioritize sustainable production through recycled-content glass, 100% post-consumer waste labels, and FSC-certi ed corks. Their wines contain no added dyes or ning agents, and they work with local growers who follow organic farming practices whenever possible. Château Davell offers a small menu of locally sourced seasonally inspired cuisine available daily. 3020 Vista Tierra Dr., Camino. https://chateaudavell.com
Schooley Mitchell – Meredith and Kevin Black Local cost reduction specialists helping El Dorado County businesses protect their margin, improve their business valuation, and improve cash ow by reducing vendor costs. Through their completely risk-free analysis process, they help businesses achieve one of two possible outcomes. Either they will identify areas where savings can be found, or they can con rm that your current services are completely optimized and you're not overspending.
3385 Bass Lake Rd, Ste. 140-135, El Dorado Hills. 916-243-5818, www.schooleymitchell.com/of ce/kmblack/ EmberShield Home Hardening – David Young & Dale Bourassa Certi ed Home Hardening and Defensible Space inspectors and General Contractors that specialize in safeguarding your home from the devastating impacts of wild res. By offering data driven, comprehensive layered solutions to reduce your re risk, they ensure your home is forti ed with cutting-edge WUI (Wildland-Urban Interface) and class “A” re-rated technology and proven strategies. We can’t stop the wild re, but EmberShield Home Hardening can help you lower your home insurance and protect your home, one ember at a time! 451 Main Street., Ste #3, Placerville. (530) 207-FIRE www.embershieldhomehardening.com
Mandy Evans, owner, passionate baker and artist, celebrates the opening of her new community-centered bakery on Broadway in Placerville. Specializing in custom cakes, cookies, cake pops, and ice cream thoughtfully designed to bring people together and turn ordinary days into something worth celebrating.
Valerie Lyons of Blue Pearl Bridal and Occasion celebrated her partnership with the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce with a ribbon cutting ceremony honoring nearly two years of unforgettable brides and what’s still to come. CAKED BAKERY 1430 Broadway Placerville (530) 306-5404 www.cakedbymandy.com/
Founded in 2005 by lifelong Californian Sam Breazile, SB Construction has grown into a trusted general contractor known for On Time & Budget, Complex Builds, and Clear Communication. From day one, their approach has been client- rst. They work to fully understand your goals, your lifestyle, and your priorities. Together, they co-create a plan, then execute it with precision. Whether it's a new build, a whole-house remodel, a hardscaping project, or re-prevention upgrades, their history is built on long-term relationships, repeat clients, and projects that stand the test of time—both structurally and aesthetically. 5170 Golden Foothill Pkwy., El Dorado Hills. (530) 339-8898 https://sbconstruction.pro/
Lindsey Scott – eXp Realty
Committed to guiding families with care, honesty, and advocacy as they begin their next chapter. 990 Marshall Way, Ste B, Placerville. (530) 391-9074 https://linktr.ee/lindseyscott.realtor
3460 Robin Lane, #12, Cameron Park www.Bluepearlbridal.com
The El Dorado Ready! campaign submitted 14,784 signatures to the County Election O ce on May 6, far in excess of the campaign's goal of 13,000. While the County has not completed their validation, campaign o cials are confident that they submitted many more valid signatures than required and believe they have qualified for the November 3, 2026 ballot.
El Dorado Ready! proposes a modest sales tax of 3/8 of one cent to reduce the risk of wildfires in our communities and prepare for emergencies by ensuring rapid emergency response, funding for fire mitigation and preserving access to emergency rooms and quality healthcare
services. The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Corporation of El Dorado County (EDC2) have both endorsed this initiative to preserve emergency services in our county. All of the proceeds will be spent locally, providing between $100 - $150 million annually in positive economic impact in El Dorado County.
Businesses and community leaders can learn more about the initiative and endorse by visiting www.eldoradoready.org
Miners on Main Scavenger Hunt
There are ten “Miners” hidden throughout Main Street Placerville from Sacramento Street to Clay Street. These Miners all had an impact on Placerville and El Dorado County during the Gold Rush period. Each miner has a QR code on the medallion that will take you to a webpage about the miners when scanned with your phone camera. So grab your phone and begin your hunt. visit-eldorado.com/miners-on-main/ Marco’s Café Music on the patio. https://marcoscafelotus.com/ music/ Hwy 50 Brewery Music and Events https://hwy50brewery.com/live-music/ El Dorado Hills Town Center Events
https://edhtowncenter.com/upcoming-events/ Sierra Vista Winery Events www.sierravistawinery.com/upcoming-events/ The Meadow Community studio. Yoga, Pilates and more! https://connectatthemeadow.com/upcoming-schedule/ American River Conservancy Events Conservation, Recreation, Stewardship, Education. https://arconservancy.org/events/
The Stage at Burke Junction Improve classes. Line Dancing. Storytelling workshop. www.stageatburke.com
Pollock Pines Camino Community Center Yoga Class rst Mondays 9:30 a.m., Bingo Night every Tuesday 5:00 p.m. https://www.pollockpinesca.org/activities
Placerville Speedway
June 6 - John Padjen Kids Bike Night presented by Pizza Factory | Points Race #7: Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Pure Stocks, Mini Trucks and BCRA Lightning Sprints
June 13 - PROSPECTOR’S PURSUIT | Points Race #8: Hunt Magnetos Wingless Tour, Pure Stocks, Ltd. Late Models and Nor-Cal Dwarf Cars June 27 - Points Race #9: Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Pure Stocks, Ltd. Late Models and Mini Trucks. Fan Appreciation Night presented by Thompson’s Family of Dealerships www.placervillespeedway.com
Moonlight Tours Weekly on Thursday, Friday & Saturday. Where historic gold town stories are as rich as the ore once was, and the ghost tours are so chilling, even the specters have goosebumps. (530) 4974960, moonlightghosttours@gmail.com, https:// moonlighttours.co/
Community Observatory Night Sky Viewing
Weekly on Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. 6699
Campus Dr, Placerville. $2 parking fee at the college. www.communityobservatory.com (530) 344-5707
Certi ed Farmer’s Markets
El Dorado Hills Community Center, 1021
Harvard Way. Sundays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cameron Park, Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Ln, Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cameron Park, 2502 Country Club Dr. Fridays, 8 a.m. to Noon
Placerville, 337 Placerville Dr. Saturdays, 8 a.m. to Noon Placerville, Main Street, Mooney Lot, Wednesdays, 4 to 8 p.m. Camino, El Dorado Orchards, 2881 North Canyon Rd. Sundays, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Beginning June 7, 2026
Garden Valley People’s Mountain Market, Marshall Rd. and Garden Valley Rd., Saturdays, 9 a.m. to Noon
Coloma, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic
Park - Mill Parking Lot
Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday, 5 p.m. to Sunset starting June 9 Somerset Farmers Market, 5951 Mount Aukum Rd (E16). Thursdays, 3 to 6:30 p.m.. https://eldoradofarmersmarket.com/
Thru June 7 – Pictures and Pages, Illustrators of El Dorado County
Presented by Arts and Culture El Dorado’s Switchboard Gallery. Celebrateing the rich tradition of illustration in El Dorado County, showcasing artists who bring stories to life through line, color, and imagination. From drawings, paintings, and beyond, the exhibition highlights the diverse voices and visual storytelling traditions rooted in our local creative community. https://artsandcultureeldorado.org/
Thru June 28 – Art on Center
Internally Speaking, Artwork by Jaim Efrain and Brisen Ochoa. Art on Center, Center for Native, Latino and Indigenous Arts, 3104 Center Street, Placerville. 530-663-3814
June 5 – Business Showcase & I Love Film Mixer
4 – 8 p.m. El Dorado County Fair & Event Center. Attendance is free.
June 6 – Golden History Days Celebrate as we welcome our Wagon Train Family back home on historic Placerville Main Street. This cherished tradition brings our community together to honor the pioneers, families and stories that shaped Placerville. Discover the rich history of local families and explore authentic Gold Rush artifacts while enjoying a full day of hands-on fund as we await the arrival of the Hwy 50 Wagon Train. Street closure 9
a.m. to 4 p.m.
June 6 & 13 – El Dorado Western Railroad at El Dorado Excursion trains on the rst and second Saturday of each month, March to December. Board the train at the El Dorado Depot, enjoy the open-air excursion car train ride to Missouri Flat Rd. and return. 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. You may purchase tickets online at https://eldoradowesternrailway.simpletix.com/ . El Dorado Western Railroad Depot 4650 Oriental Dr. El Dorado, CA 95623 Tickets go on sale at 9:30 a.m.: $12 for adults & children 9 & up $3 for children 4 to 8. Free for children 3 & under. A processing fee is added to each paid ticket purchased online.
June 13 – Girls Night Out – Disco Inferno
Calling all Dancing Queens – Disco Inferno is going Downtown! Gather your girlfriends, slip into your disco dancing out ts, and make your way to Main Street Placerville for an exciting day lled with a fashion show, live music, a best-dressed contest, and a whole lot of fun activities in the participating shops! Show off your best 1970s Glam, Disco Chic and Funky Flare in the Best Dressed Contest. Reserve your SWAG Bag here: https://givebutter.com/placerville-gno
June 18 - Aug 16 – Exhibition “Rubicon Rising” Presented by Arts and Culture El Dorado’s Switchboard Gallery. Explores the history and cultural signi cance of the Rubicon Trail, one of the most famous off-road routes in the world. Through photographs, stories, and artifacts, it reveals how generations of adventurers, local communities, and conservation efforts have shaped this rugged Sierra Nevada landscape. There will be an opening reception on Thursday, June 18 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Switchboard Gallery. https://artsandcultureeldorado.org/
June 20 & 27 – El Dorado Western Railroad at Shingle Springs Train rides on the third and fourth Saturday of the month, March to December. Board the train at the Shingle Springs Depot, enjoy the yellow A-car car train ride to Greenstone Rd. and return. Shingle Springs Depot 4241 Mother Lode Dr. Shingle Springs. Tickets go on sale at 9:30 a.m.: $10 for adults & children 9 & up $3 for children 4 to 8 Free for children 3 & under. https://eldoradolibrary.org/el-dorado-western-railroad/ June 20 – Third Saturday Art Walk Historic Downtown Placerville. 4 – 8 p.m. The galleries, shops and restaurants on Main Street stay open late, many offering special promo-
tions. Meet the artists, visit local merchants, enjoy dinner, wine tasting and live music. Most months feature a special raf e as well. June 18 – EDC Chamber of Commerce Luncheon Guest Speaker – Mindy Danovaro, Marshall Foundation for Community Health. Hosted at the Koto Buffet. $21 members/$26 non-members. Prepaid
and connect. Arrive around 6:30 p.m. to grab a drink, check out the games, and reserve your seat. Each table of four will feature a different game, so you can choose your favorite or join a table of new friends. Seats can be reserved until 6:45 p.m., and games will begin promptly at 7 p.m.. FREE admission with a drink purchase. All guests must be 21 years of age or older. http://www. thepouringparlorcamino.com/
June 26 – 43rd Annual Bob West Golf Tournament Cold Springs Golf & Country Club, 6500 Clubhouse Drive, Placerville. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or new to the game, this day promises an unforgettable experience for everyone. Beyond golf, it’s an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals who share your commitment to our community’s well-being. Your participation, whether as a golfer, sponsor, or donor, is integral to the success of this event and our ongoing mission of community care. We look forward to having you join us on this special day and thank you for your support! Please contact Maddi Pearl at 530642-9984 or mpearl@marshallmedical.org to con rm registration or for any questions. www.marshallfound.org/golf-tournament-info/ June 27 – Cameron Park CSD Summer Spectacular Cameron Park’s biggest community celebration of the year—a day of fun, food, and festivities capped with a dazzling reworks show. It’s a chance for families, friends, and neighbors to come together, enjoy great activities, explore local vendors, and soak up the energy of a true community tradition. With food trucks, entertainment, and a reworks nale lighting up the sky, it’s the kind of event that creates memories and brings the whole community out to celebrate summer. www.cameronpark. org/2026-06-27-summer-spectacular-2026 Formoreinformationontheseandotherevents,visit www.visiteldorado.com.Eventdate,time,costorlocationsaresubjecttochange.Priortoattendinganevent pleasecon rmtheinformation. ADDYOUREVENT HERE:https://visit-eldorado.com/community-calendar/
Gavin Newsom is trying to
finish his governorship on a high note, claiming he has written “a balanced budget structurally for 18 months” that would give his successor some breathing room.
The word “structurally” is the key feature Newsom is touting because for the past four years, after he and the Legislature raised spending on an erroneously expansive revenue projection, budgets have spent a total of $125 billion more than the state’s real revenues, according to the Legislature’s budget analyst, Gabe Petek.
It is what budget junkies term a “structural deficit,” meaning spending commitments are more than the revenue system can cover. Newsom is now claiming that with a recent surge in revenues and some belt-tightening, his 2026-27 budget is now structurally sound.
However, the numbers he presents say otherwise.
His $349.4 billion budget projects that the state will take in $226.5 billion in general fund tax revenues during the fiscal year that begins July 1 but would spend $246.6 billion, a $20 billion gap that’s somewhat smaller than those of recent years but still a structural deficit.
A short-term revenue spike, some spending reductions, some borrowing and the usual mix of other “solutions” would cover the shortfall, but even so, the budget acknowledges that long-term deficits still loom, although perhaps smaller than previous estimates.
Petek says the budget still leaves the state “illprepared” for even a small hiccup in revenues.
Newsom is obviously proud of what he has wrought, saying “We’re cutting deficits but not cutting corners.” However, as the June 15 constitutional deadline for passing a budget looms, he and legislators are facing widespread resistance to the budget’s reductions, particularly in education and health and welfare services for the poor and disabled, and to an unwillingness to cover additional cuts in federal aid for those programs.
Scarcely a day passes without some demonstration or other event staged by advocates to pressure the Capitol’s politicians to make their programs whole. And more pressure is coming from powerful education groups because Newsom is holding back some school funds that the constitution requires to be paid.
Last week, for example, the California School Boards Association and a coalition of school unions
■ See WALTERS, page A7
Coincident with the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the American Declaration of Independence is the 250th anniversary of the publication of “The Nations.”
The full title of Scotsman Adam Smith’s book, published in 1776, is “An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations.”
EDITOR:
Ilove America because I’m happy here and I feel happy for America’s 250th birthday this year. I’m almost in first grade, and I started learning about America’s history reading “Tuttle Twins” and I have learned that America is a free place. Not every country is free. In some countries, it’s illegal to choose what you believe in, like where to go to church, and you could be put in jail or killed. In some countries, it’s illegal or very hard for girls to go to school. In some countries, kids are forced to work. I’m able to go to church where I want, do school and play because I’m free. That makes me want to celebrate America. And not just this summer, but all the time. My family is having a big party this summer to celebrate and we’re going to learn more about the war and how they won freedom. I feel happy and joyful about the Founding Fathers. I hope we can all celebrate.
CHLOE JAYNE BROWN Placerville
EDITOR:
June 1, marks the beginning of Pride month — a month-long celebration of diverse orientations. In recent years, I’ve noticed people quipping things like, “Why should I celebrate who you sleep with”, “I don’t care who you sleep with, just keep it away from me”, and “Why do you still need pride month?” The ironic thing is, the attitude behind these quotes adds to the myriad reasons why Pride month is so important to so many people. Pride isn’t about celebrating who you sleep with, it’s about remembering how far LGBTQ+ people have come and recognizing that there is still a long way to go. Walk through towns across America this June, and you will see main streets decorated with Pride flags — visible symbols of safety, welcome and community pride. Our town doesn’t do this ... yet. But inclusion starts with a choice. This month, I challenge our community leaders and neighbors to look past the old, dismissive clichés and choose to make Placerville and El Dorado County a place where everyone truly feels they belong.
One might say that in that one year 250 years ago, the American Declaration of Independence provided the road map for political freedom and Adam Smith’s book provided the road map for economic freedom. The result was a great new achievement in the history of human potential called the United States of America.
Smith was first to systematically articulate that free markets, individuals left free to pursue their
interests, with law protecting life and property, produces the most prosperous society for all.
Rather than the government deciding who should do what, an “invisible hand” guiding markets maximizes the opportunity for each to do what best suits them and thereby provide most e ciently for the needs of their fellow citizens.
Today, 250 years after publication of Adam Smith’s famous book, its truth still brightly shines.
According to the Fraser Institute’s annual Economic Freedom of the World report, average income of the top 25% of countries in economic freedom is more than six times greater than the average income of the bottom 25%. So is “The Wealth of Nations” a
book about an economic jungle, with everyone mercilessly out for themselves?
For sure not.
Smith is author of another book called “The Theory of Moral Sentiments.” Here he adds the moral perspective of the importance of selfknowledge, empathy to others and meaning.
In other words, the “secret sauce,” so to speak, is allowing individuals the freedom to take responsibility for their lives and to bring their own unique talents and perspective to the marketplace, serving others through empathy and knowledge and moral responsibility.
What about technology?
Technology is the great disrupter. New discoveries and inventions bring to the marketplace new and better ways to do things, upsetting the whole existing apple cart of the way things have been.
There are always going to be those afraid of change, wanting to keep things as they are. Or wanting the
government to step in and abridge our freedom and our ability to take full advantage of and to use properly new technologies.
The fear of change is not without legitimacy. Technology is a tool in the hands of men.
How that technology is used depends on how human beings choose to use it: for good, or for bad.
The steam engine, the automobile, the computer, nuclear energy, laptops, the iPhone. All great disrupters.
Nuclear power has great power to destroy or to produce clean, cheap electricity. The iPhone provides unprecedented communication freedom and mobility. But it can also cause addiction. Social media provides new dimensions for communication and social cohesion. Or it can also provide a platform for horrible distortions and social destruction.
The technology grabbing headlines now is artificial intelligence, or AI. Like other technological
Parker Continued from A6
breakthroughs, it can do great things or horrible things. Which it will be is not a function of the technology but a function of the human beings using it. To go back to “The Wealth of Nations,” the great bounty is produced when people are given freedom
Walters Continued from A6
and other education groups staged a rally on the Capitol steps, demanding Newsom and legislators give schools their designated state aid, reminding them that it’s “a matter of law, not a suggestion that can be discarded when it becomes inconvenient for policymakers,” as the school boards’ president, Debra Schade, put it.
“Yet, for the third consecutive year, the administration has proposed manipulating the Proposition 98 minimum funding guarantee instead of fully honoring it. Once we open the door to the idea that Proposition 98 can be manipulated whenever the state faces fiscal pressure, we
Continued from A6
JORDAN LAMPENFELD
Placerville
EDITOR:
It’s commonly said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over again and expecting a different result. The last time Republicans had real power in this state, not just the power to restrict, but real power, Eisenhower was President. So what has happened in the intervening years, especially the recent ones? We’ve lost population, companies, corporations, and high income taxpayers while at the same time constantly increasing the budget and constantly decreasing oversight. Non disclosure agreements and secrecy shroud the work at the state capitol which is costing much more than the much ballyhooed ballroom at the White House. 24 billion was spent on California’s homeless and not only did it do no good, but our leaders can’t even find out where it went. You will often hear the left brag that California, if it was a country, would be the fifth largest economy in the world. What they don’t mention is that if California were a country it would also be the 6th most expensive country in the world to live in. Businesses leaving, taxpayers leaving, student achievement scores in the cellar and we continue to elect the very party and people that brought this disaster. Why? Why do we consistently reward failure? How can we expect California to get out of this mess when we continue to elect and reelect the very people and party that got us into it?
GEORGE ALGER Placerville How is this possible in America?
EDITOR:
The Justice Department on Monday announced the creation of a $1.776 billion fund to compensate President Donald Trump’s allies who claim they were unfairly targeted by the previous administration. It’s an unprecedented move that would allow the president’s administration to pay his supporters from a government agency he controls with taxpayer money. There appears to be few constraints on who can submit a claim to the fund. The president has broadly stated that
and when those same people take responsibility for knowing what is good and knowing what is evil and acting accordingly.
Freedom means creativity.
The United States constitutes less the 5% of the world’s total population.
Yet, Americans account for some 50% of all Nobel
fundamentally weaken the protections voters deliberately put in place for California students.” Healthcare advocates are equally adamant. For example, backers of dental care for poor children released a report saying that “Upwards of 1.2 million low-income California children could lose access to dental healthcare if Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed Medi-Cal dental cuts are enacted.”
Meanwhile, supporters of Newsom’s expansion of pre-kindergarten education and childcare are complaining that “the governor is cutting all childcare and pre-K programs by 2% in real spending,” adding, “After championing young
prizes since the prizes began in 1901.
As we celebrate this year, let’s embrace our freedom, and let’s push back on those so ready to concede it.
But let’s remember at every moment we are a free nation under God, which is the answer to using our freedom correctly.
children, family supports for several years, the governor’s reversal is odd … in light of his presidential ambitions.”
The Legislature’s supermajority Democrats are obviously sympathetic to the complaints flooding their offices, even to the extent of raising taxes. However, Newsom also doesn’t want to leave after imposing a big increase in taxes.
We’ll soon learn whether legislators will anger advocates of programs they’ve proudly supported to support a lame duck governor who is obviously plotting a run for the White House.
his allies were politically targeted by the justice system, from the yearsold Russian collusion investigation to the nearly 1,600 people charged in connection to the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot. JOHN REAY El Dorado Retaliation has no place in El Dorado County
EDITOR:
Who protects seniors when park management doesn’t?
I am a long-time resident of Crestview Mobile Home Park in Placerville. I never imagined that in my later years, I would be fighting just to keep a roof over my head. Yet here I am — and I am not the only one. Across our county, seniors on fixed incomes are facing pressure, confusion and fear as management companies take over long-established mobile home parks. Many of us have lived here for decades. We are not wealthy. We are not powerful. We are simply trying to age in place with dignity.
But what happens when management begins issuing sudden notices, demanding signatures on new contracts or telling elderly residents that if they do not comply, they could lose their homes? What happens when an 80-year-old man is told he might end up on the street? What happens when disabled residents are pressured or intimidated because they cannot fight back? What happens is fear. Sleepless nights. Stress that affects health. And a sense that no one is watching out for us.
Many seniors live alone. Many are disabled. Many are on Social Security. When management pressures us, it is not a “business decision.” It is a threat to our stability, our safety and our lives.
Mobile home parks were once the last affordable housing option for seniors in California. Now they are becoming profit centers for corporations who see our homes not as communities, but as revenue streams. When rents rise much faster than Social Security — and when a $100 rent credit can be removed simply because management doesn’t like that a resident won’t comply with their demands — seniors are left defenseless. We need oversight. We need accountability. We need someone to say, “This is not how we treat the elderly in El Dorado County.”
I am speaking up because many of my neighbors are too afraid to. Some fear retaliation. Some don’t understand the paperwork. Some simply don’t have the strength to fight.
But our community deserves better. Our seniors deserve better.
And our county deserves to know what is happening behind the closed doors of these parks.
This can happen to anyone.
Residents of Crestview Mobile Home Park, Placerville.
JOANNE KELLEGHAN Placerville
I’m curious
EDITOR:
I’m curious as to why there aren’t more outcries about
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.
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
the corruption of this current administration by Republicans.
I’ve read several Republican critiques of Democratic-led administrations, but none about the grifts, illegal actions or war(s) currently occurring in the Republicancontrolled House/ Senate/White House. I find this extremely strange and troubling. Instead of standing up to corruption and the dismantling of our democracy, Republicans accuse eight million “No Kings” protesters of receiving money to protest. I find this ironic since Trump offered to pay military service members to attend the 250th anniversary celebration of our country. Somehow, the hypocrisy of this administration slips by, unnoticed. Why?
The First Amendment of our Constitution upholds free speech. That is the strength of democracy — the
freedom to express different opinions and question authority.
Where are the Republican concerns for our Bill of Rights, which barely exist now?
I’m grateful for the amazing, caring people whom I’ve been
fortunate to connect with in this community. I’m curious, though, why more community members aren’t vocalizing their concern about the future of the United States.
We’ve launched a new digital banking platform, with an upgraded Online Banking experience, sleek Mobile App and the ability to connect all your external bank accounts in one place—AND IT ROCKS.
If you’re not loving your current bank, join the Sierra Central family!
away entirely. Instead, it marks a transition from frontline responder to mentor and adviser as a new generation of volunteers take over the demanding work of caring for orphaned and injured fawns.
“I’ll still find amusing things to do out in nature, no doubt,” Cook said with a laugh. “But it’s time to free up some time and let other people carry more of the load.”
From “one-man band” to statewide leader
When Cook first joined the program 26 years ago, the operation was modest.
“The first year I did it, I picked up maybe a dozen fawns and released nine,” he said. “It was kind of a oneman band.”
Over time, however, the calls increased dramatically.
Today, Sierra Wildlife Rescue receives between 600 and 800 calls annually related to fawns and rehabilitates roughly 130 to 175 animals every year. The organization now has nearly six dozen volunteers supporting the program through intake, transportation, feeding, care and rehabilitation.
Cook said the increase is tied less to growing deer populations and more to expanding human development in foothill communities.
“People always ask me if it’s because of what’s going on with the deer population,” Cook said. “Actually, the deer population isn’t bigger. It’s just where people live in the foothills, so they see deer in distress more often.”
Vehicle strikes remain one of the most common causes of injuries and orphaned fawns. As traffic has increased in rural communities, so have rescue calls.
The workload eventually grew beyond what any single person could manage.
“We have people that focus just on intake, which is answering the phone calls and going out in the field to pick up fawns,” Cook said. “Then there’s early care, bottle feeding and later care where they’re in big enclosures and don’t see humans for months before release.”
Building fawn facilities
The expansion of the program required more than just volunteers. It also demanded major investments in infrastructure and specialized facilities.
Cook said Sierra Wildlife Rescue now operates the largest fawn rehabilitation facility in California at a site in Shingle Springs.
Few wildlife rehabilitation organizations in California are permitted to rehabilitate fawns because the state tightly regulates care for large game animals. The work requires specialized permits, large enclosures and trained volunteers capable of handling the animals properly.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Just because something works on paper doesn’t mean it will in real life. The logical solutions won’t be enough to fix what goes wrong. The key ingredients for success today: creativity, vision, empathy and patience.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). People make choices that don’t seem quite right to you. Of course, you don’t have full access to their reasons, their history or what they need to learn for themselves. You still feel pulled to step in.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). There’s a point in which enjoyment tips into “too much,” and unfortunately, that line isn’t always so easy to see. Getting carried away can be part of the fun, but it’s only really fun if there is a safety net.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). Your offer is changing. Can you put it into words yet? There’s something you’re delivering that will be better accepted and compensated with the right description. Play with the wording, style and tone. It takes time to get this right.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). No matter what was lost in the past, today is still yours to win. Just lean into your natural tendencies. They won’t steer you wrong. The afternoon is for troubleshooting and problem-solving. With a bit of adjustment, you’ll make it work. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). There’s plenty of noise and not enough signal today, posing a challenge to clear communication. But if anyone can sidestep the pitfalls, it’s you. Expect misinformation. Check sources. Stay out of the arguments; they aren’t worth it.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Collaboration is the way to multiplied results. Not just more hands, but more ideas and shared energy. And there’s a bonus layer: Letting others share credit deepens the satisfaction. So stay open to input. You will be both influential and influenced.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). It’s a day of threes. You’ll move three things out of the way. There will be a shift in the plans, priorities and expectations. You’ll delay one thing, say no to another and rethink a third.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’ll master the fine art of being a boss without being bossy. It’s a tightrope walk to be sure, but as long as you’re paying attention to the feedback others give you, you’ll maintain your balance and cross to the other side.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). The problem you couldn’t solve last week comes back around. This time, approach from a different angle. Consider that the details may be less important than you were making them. This is something that just needs to be done, perhaps imperfectly.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Recommit to what
of Fish and Wildlife,” Cook said. “People call us from all over California asking how to build programs, build enclosures and train volunteers.”
Fueling the future
As Cook prepared for retirement, Sierra Wildlife Rescue launched a major fundraising campaign to support expansion of its facilities and ensure the program could continue operating at a high level.
The campaign focused on constructing new enclosures and improving rehabilitation sites.
“It went really well,” Cook said. “We almost reached the target, and we had enough money to do all of the enclosure work that we needed to do last year.”
Additional expansion projects are still underway, and Cook encouraged supporters to continue donating to the organization’s fawn fund to help offset ongoing construction and operational costs.
The growing scope of the program also required changes in leadership structure.
Special Projects and Fawn Program
Manager Kelly Garner has taken over the fawn program, managing volunteers and day-to-day operations while Cook transitions into the role of retiree.
“With over 25 years in the field, and helping thousands of fawns, it is a well deserved retirement,” said Garner. “I count myself lucky to have had this time to work with Dave and learn from him.”
Cook emphasized that the organization intentionally designed the transition to avoid overburdening any one person.
“There is no new ‘Deer Dave,’” he said. “It’s a group effort now.”
Although Cook spent years rescuing animals, he said one of the most meaningful parts of the job was interacting with the public.
“You hear people say all the time they work in animal rescue because they don’t like people,” Cook said. “Well, I like people.”
He described callers as essential partners in the rescue process, often acting as the first people to notice an animal in distress.
“What I always like people to understand is that it is never a bother when they call wildlife rescue to report an injured or possibly orphaned fawn or other animal because you are the first responders,” Cook said. “We don’t drive around the county looking for animals in distress. If it weren’t for you, we would never know we were needed.” Cook said many callers are deeply emotional when they encounter an injured fawn.
“The fawn formula is expensive,” Cook said. “And then we have shifts of people coming in three times a day to make breakfast, lunch and dinner and feed the fawns.”
The rehabilitation process is carefully structured. Young fawns first enter an isolation phase known as “early care,” where they are bottle-fed and monitored closely. Once they are older and healthier, they are moved into larger outdoor enclosures for “later care,” where volunteers intentionally minimize human interaction so the animals can successfully return to the wild.
The organization also assists other counties when needed. Because few facilities in California are licensed and equipped to care for fawns, Sierra Wildlife Rescue occasionally accepts animals from distant regions.
Cook said he recently worked with wildlife rehabilitation groups from counties including Modoc, Sonoma and Placer as part of a statewide effort to improve fawn rehabilitation standards.
“I’m actually the facilitator for the statewide fawn rehabilitators work group through the Department
for the lake is 3221 Baron Court. Each bus seats up to 23 people.
The Summer Spectacular is largely made possible through the generosity of local businesses, community partners and residents who help keep this beloved tradition shining bright. The district offers a variety of sponsorship opportunities for organizations looking to connect with thousands of attendees. Small, local vendors are also invited to
“Most people are just all tore up because Bambi’s hurting,” he said. That connection between the community and wildlife is part of what kept him answering calls for so many years.
As he steps back from daily operations, Cook plans to spend more time traveling and exploring nature outside California while remaining connected to the work that defined much of his life.
He also hopes the program’s reputation and strong volunteer foundation will continue to grow long after his retirement.
“That’s part of my legacy, if you want to call it that,” Cook said. “Not just saving fawns in El Dorado County, but helping save them throughout the state.”
“He truly is a legend for all that he has done to help these incredible animals,” Garner said. “He will be greatly missed by all of us at Sierra Wildlife Rescue, but never forgotten.”
Residents who encounter an injured or orphaned fawn are encouraged to contact Sierra Wildlife Rescue’s dedicated fawn hotline at (530) 678-FAWN [3296]. To learn more about Sierra Wildlife Rescue visit sierrawildliferescue.org.
showcase and sell their products. Visit the CPCSD website for additional details.
The district is also looking for event volunteers to help with setup and cleanup, work concessions, parking and the gate, watch over at the Kids Zone and transport guests via golf cart. Volunteers will receive free admission, a T-shirt and dinner. For more information call (530) 6772231.
Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway
Fremont’s Shane Golobic took the lead from Nick Parker on lap seven and went on to record his 18th career Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour win on Saturday at the Davy Thomas Memorial in Placerville.
It marked Golobic’s first Winged Sprint Car win since March 29, 2025, during the SCCT opener at Placerville Speedway. The driver of the NOS Energy Drink No. 17w took home $6,000 for his efforts.
“It’s a lot of fun when this place widens out and you can get to racing,” Golobic commented on the front stretch. “Nick Parker did a good job early but luckily, I was able to get by him and then set my own pace. Lapped traffic was tough at times with cars side by side. It’s very special to win the Davy Race because we really miss him in the pit area.” Tucson, Ariz., driver Nick Parker jumped out to the lead after winning the High Sierra Industries Dash. He had also taken home a nose wing earlier on thanks to Sellers Race Wings for qualifying 15th overall.
Golobic hounded him over the early stages and would pounce on lap seven, grabbing the lead that he never relinquished. Redding’s Max Mittry closed a few times in lapped traffic, but Golobic was mistake free and raced off to claim the Ed Entz checkered flag.
Mittry crossed the stripe in second to cap off a strong evening. The Redding driver started the night by earning the $1,000 Donna Gomez Fast Time Award. When all was said and done Mittry claimed $3,700 for his efforts at the Davy Thomas Memorial.
Last year’s Placerville Speedway champion Tony Gomes rounded out the podium after taking Bold Choice Bonus in the Dash. The Modesto resident automatically took the 8 pill for a $500 bonus prior to the Dash draw.
Sacramento’s Austin Wood and SCCT point leader Justyn Cox rounded out the top five. Gomes and Wood had a thrilling battle for the third spot that had fans on the edge of their seats.
Completing the top 10 in the Shop Kyle Larson feature were Parker, Shane Hopkins, Dominic Gorden, Tanner Carrick and Chance Grasty. Carrick brought home the $1,150 Gene Freeman Hard Charger Award for the main event.
Colby Copeland grabbed the Cindy Rounds B-main win, while Corbin Rueschenberg won the Rounds Kids Hard Charger Award during the 12-lap contest. Heat race wins were pocketed by Golobic, Parker, Cole Croft and Gomes.
The man known as “Little Whit” Shawn Whitney
scored yet another Placerville Speedway win on Saturday with the Nor-Cal Dwarf Car Association. Mike Grenert, Ben Wiesz, Mike Reeder and Dan Geil followed him across the line.
Upcoming event
The Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour returns to action on Saturday, June 13 at Petaluma Speedway. Placerville Speedway is back at it this
At Eskaton Village Placerville, every living option comes with the assurance of professional support along with a friendly community built around belonging.
From the nutritious meals to the compassionate support and vibrant activities, you will see that our community not only cares, but understands.
The highly sought-after independent living cottages at Eskaton Village Placerville have some rare openings! The private cottages on campus offer maintenance-free independence with all the convenience of a
Community Spotlight Event Wednesday, June 17 from 2 - 4 p.m.
Learn about the various living options within Eskaton
Mike Bush Mountain Democrat correspondent
Three of the four El Dorado County high school track and field programs were represented at the California Interscholastic Federation State Championships over the weekend. The state meet was held at Veterans Memorial Stadium on the Buchanan High School campus in Clovis. The finals were held on Saturday and preliminaries on Friday.
Here is a list of county athletes who competed.
Oak Ridge
Allie Anastacio, a senior who took second place in the triple jump at the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Masters Track and Field Finals at Folsom High School on May 23, competed in the trials event at the CIF State meet on Friday.
That is where the Trojans’ season
came to an end, as she took 14th place with a jump of 37 feet, 4 ¼ inches.
Another Trojan Chase Fontana earned a berth to the state meet in the 100 meters, thanks to his fourth-place finish at the Masters at 10.90 seconds. However, he did not compete in the event at the meet.
Fontana had also qualified for the 200 meters at the Masters but did not compete in the preliminaries at the state meet.
Ponderosa
Emmy Angelo, a senior, was the lone Bruin who competed at the state meet.
Running in the 3,200-meters race on Saturday, Angelo took 21st place with a time of 11 minutes, 5.86 seconds.
Union Mine
Patrick Pinjuv competed in the boys’ 800 meters for the Diamondbacks and finished in 22nd place, clocked at 1:54.07.
coming Saturday, June 6 for John Padjen Kids Bike Night presented by the Pizza Factory.
Davy Thomas Memorial Results
A Main 30 Laps: 1. 17W-Shane Golobic[2]; 2. 2X-Max Mittry[3]; 3. 75-Tony Gomes[5]; 4. 2A-Austin Wood[6]; 5. 42X-Justyn Cox[8]; 6. 15AZ-Nick Parker[1]; 7. 21-Shane Hopkins[10]; 8. 10-Dominic Gorden[9]; 9. 83T-Tanner Carrick[16]; 10. X1-Chance Grasty[12]; 11. 21L-Landon Brooks[14]; 12. 29-Cole Croft[7]; 13. 15-Michael Sellers[15]; 14. 9L-Luke Hayes[17]; 15. 55D-Dawson Hammes[11]; 16. 7C-Colby Copeland[21]; 17. 51-Jake Morgan[23]; 18. 12J-John Clark[19]; 19. 7H-Jake Haulot[20]; 20. 9-Adrianna DeMartini[24]; 21. 61-Travis Labat[22]; 22. 00-Steel Powell[18]; 23. 92-Andy Forsberg[4]; 24. 7-Seth Standley[13] B Feature 12 Laps: 1. 7C-Colby Copeland[1]; 2. 61-Travis Labat[5]; 3. 51-Jake Morgan[3]; 4. 9-Adrianna DeMartini[9]; 5. 26-Corbin Rueschenberg[13]; 6. 56C-Carson Hammes[8]; 7. 98-Chris Masters[6]; 8. 56-Taylor Hall[11]; 9. 35-Stephen Ingraham[4]; 10. 25-Cody Johnson[7]; 11. 85-AJ Alderman[12]; 12. 28K-Bryant Bell[10]; 13. (DNS) 14W-Jodie Robinson Dash 8 Laps: 1. 15AZ-Nick Parker[1]; 2. 17W-Shane Golobic[3]; 3. 2X-Max Mittry[4]; 4. 92-Andy Forsberg[5]; 5. 75-Tony Gomes[8]; 6. 2A-Austin Wood[7]; 7. 29-Cole Croft[2]; 8. 42X-Justyn Cox[6] Heat 1 8 Laps: 1. 17W-Shane Golobic[1]; 2. 10-Dominic Gorden[3]; 3. 7-Seth Standley[2]; 4. 92-Andy Forsberg[4]; 5. 9L-Luke Hayes[6]; 6. 51-Jake Morgan[8]; 7. 25-Cody Johnson[7];
8. 56-Taylor Hall[9]; 9. 7C-Colby Copeland[5]
Heat 2 8 Laps: 1. 15AZ-Nick Parker[2]; 2. 55D-Dawson Hammes[1]; 3. 15-Michael Sellers[3]; 4. 42X-Justyn Cox[4]; 5. 12J-John Clark[6]; 6. 61-Travis Labat[8]; 7. 9-Adrianna DeMartini[5]; 8. 26-Corbin Rueschenberg[7]
Heat 3 8 Laps: 1. 29-Cole Croft[3]; 2. 21-Shane Hopkins[1]; 3. 2X-Max Mittry[4]; 4. 21L-Landon Brooks[2]; 5. 00-Steel Powell[5]; 6. 14W-Jodie Robinson[6]; 7. 98-Chris Masters[8]; 8. 28K-Bryant Bell[7] Heat 4 8 Laps: 1. 75-Tony Gomes[2]; 2. X1-Chance Grasty[1]; 3. 2A-Austin Wood[4]; 4. 83T-Tanner Carrick[3]; 5. 7H-Jake Haulot[5]; 6. 35-Stephen Ingraham[6]; 7. 56C-Carson Hammes[7]; 8. 85-AJ Alderman[8] Qualifying A: 1. 92-Andy Forsberg, 10.375[9]; 2. 42X-Justyn Cox, 10.427[2]; 3. 17W-Shane Golobic, 10.529[12]; 4. 55D-Dawson Hammes,
10.549[17]; 5. 7-Seth Standley, 10.603[14]; 6. 15AZ-Nick Parker, 10.622[15]; 7. 10-Dominic Gorden, 10.629[13]; 8. 15-Michael Sellers, 10.638[5]; 9. 7C-Colby Copeland, 10.653[8]; 10. 9-Adrianna DeMartini, 10.718[1]; 11. 9L-Luke Hayes, 10.727[3]; 12. 12J-John Clark, 10.771[4]; 13. 25-Cody Johnson, 10.794[11]; 14. 26-Corbin Rueschenberg, 10.819[7]; 15. 51-Jake Morgan, 10.838[16]; 16. 61-Travis Labat, 10.890[6]; 17. 56-Taylor Hall, 10.914[10] Qualifying B: 1. 2X-Max Mittry, 10.239[8]; 2. 2A-Austin Wood, 10.306[16]; 3. 21-Shane Hopkins, 10.347[4]; 4. X1-Chance Grasty, 10.395[14]; 5. 21L-Landon Brooks, 10.467[1]; 6. 75-Tony Gomes, 10.489[11]; 7. 29-Cole Croft, 10.527[15]; 8. 83T-Tanner Carrick, 10.563[9]; 9. 00-Steel Powell, 10.605[5]; 10. 7H-Jake Haulot, 10.641[13]; 11. 14W-Jodie Robinson, 10.682[12]; 12. 35-Stephen Ingraham,
10.810[6]; 13. 28K-Bryant Bell, 10.822[7]; 14. 56C-Carson Hammes, 10.883[3]; 15. 98-Chris Masters, 11.193[10]; 16. 85-AJ Alderman, 11.240[2] Nor-Cal Dwarf Cars: 1. 15N-Shawn
Whitney[1]; 2. 12N-Mike Grenert[3]; 3. 57N-Ben Wiesz[10]; 4. 72N-Mike Reeder[2]; 5. 32N-Dan Geil[5]; 6. 29N-Corey Eaton[6]; 7. 508N-Steve Costello[4]; 8. 41N-Brandon Aylesworth[9]; 9. 94N-Denny Hannel[13]; 10. 19N-Patrick Weger[14]; 11. 8N-Aron Mosier[8]; 12. 616N-Tyler Quilty[11]; 13. 99N-Gage Meyers[12]; 14. 42N-Isaak Geil[7]; 15. (DNS) 410-Chris Durden
June 3
The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Connections Luncheon at EDH Fire Station 85 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.
org. Valhalla Tahoe presents Brother Yusef at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Mind Games Trivia Night hosted by Amber “Lucky” Stann will take place, 6-8 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
June 4
The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host its Networking After Hours Mixer at Wally’s Pizza Bar from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.
Zep Night — Led Zeppelin tribute will take place, 6:3010 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
June 5
Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville, is open 9 a.m. to noon, for open garden days. Take a leisurely stroll through all 16 themed gardens. Docents are on-site to assist with any questions regarding the Sherwood Demonstration Garden or your personal gardens. May be closed for inclement weather or poor air quality, check before visiting at tinyurl.com/pszsfdhf.
The Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center, 2675 Sanders Drive, Pollock Pines, will welcome the Wagon Train around 1 p.m. The celebration begins at 10 a.m. with baked goods, vendors, pony rides for the kids and re engines. The grill will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Festivities will continue with a chicken and rib dinner beginning at 4 p.m. and the sounds of Last Call from 4:30-8 p.m. For information call (530) 647-8005.
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Showcase and I Love Film Mixer from 4-8 p.m. at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
Richard Smith — world renowned guitarist will perform, 7:30-9:30 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Sacramento Zoo will host After Hours, the zoo’s over 21 event from 6-9 p.m. For more information visit saczoo. org. Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents Hurricane Diane” through June 27 For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre.org.
June 6
The Experimental Aircraft Association, Chapter 512, will host its Famous Pancake Breakfast from 8-11 a.m. at the Placerville Airport, 3501 Airport Road. Enjoy breakfast, airplanes on display and old friends. Proceeds go to the Sunny Atkin Scholarship fund for students of aeronautical
Andrew Vonderschmitt Features editor
From local artists and theater performers to
filmmakers and business owners, a wide cross-section of El Dorado County will gather June 5 for the annual Business Showcase and I Love Film Mixer, an event designed to celebrate the region's economy, culture and creative industries.
Hosted by the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce, the event is expected to draw more than 2,000 attendees during its four-hour run and feature more than 90 exhibitors representing businesses, community organizations and film industry professionals.
For Chamber Chief Operations O cer Ellen Vaughn, the event serves as both an economic engine and a community gathering place.
“This event highlights the creativity and business services we enjoy and benefit from in our county, and provides connections between companies, artists and residents,” Vaughn said. “It is a true community showcase that strengthens our local economy and cultural scene.”
This year's showcase places a special emphasis on the arts, with a central exhibit area dedicated to local cultural organizations and artists.
Participants include, among others, Arts and Culture El Dorado, Imagination Theater and Images of Hope, which
will unveil the 20th annual Banners on Parade display.
Bill Robinson of Images of Hope said attendees are in for a treat.
“I’m excited to be part of the premiere of the 20th year of Banners on Parade at the Business Showcase,” Robinson said. “I’ve already had a sneak peek and they are spectacular.”
Arts and Culture El Dorado will feature several participants from its Arts Incubator program, which supports emerging cultural organizations throughout the county.
“Arts and Culture El Dorado is pleased to participate in this year’s Business Showcase by celebrating our Arts Incubator
partners,” said Executive Director Terry LeMoncheck. LeMoncheck said the program serves 17 projects and tailors support to each organization's needs. She noted that several culturally specific initiatives focus on preserving and sustaining Indigenous and Latino arts and traditions.
“We hope the public will visit each of the projects that will be in attendance at this year’s Showcase, including arteSana, Sugar Skull Art Walk and Art on Center,” she said.
Across the breezeway, Imagination Theater will o er performances and behindthe-scenes access to its facility through tours led by interns and volunteers.
“We are happy to be able to provide intern- and volunteerled tours of the theater to a wider audience that may not
Andrew Vonderschmitt Features editor
The sights, sounds and stories of California's Gold Rush era will once again fill Historical Main Street, Placerville when Golden History Days returns June 6.
The annual celebration, presented by the Golden History Association, will run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., transforming the city's historical district into a living tribute to the people, cultures and events that shaped El Dorado County during the Gold Rush.
More than 50 vendors, historical organizations, reenactors, artisans and food vendors are expected to participate, o ering visitors a chance to experience history through demonstrations, exhibits, period clothing, handcrafted goods and interactive activities.
Immersive opportunities
"Our annual Main Street celebration o ers immersive historical experiences and educational opportunities that highlight the diverse legacy of El Dorado County's Gold Rush
era," said Greg Rezak, president of the Golden History Association.
"By engaging with the community and youths, we help deepen their connection to the region's history and inspire the next generation of storytellers, stewards and community leaders."
Golden History Days has become one of Placerville's signature heritage events, drawing residents and visitors alike to celebrate the region's rich past. Historical
Main Street provides a fitting backdrop for the event, with many of its buildings dating back to the years following the Gold Rush.
Throughout the day, guests can experience the atmosphere of a bustling 19th-century community.
"To enrich the experience, we invited antique vendors, cultural artisans, peddlers and food vendors to join us," Rezak said. "Their presence transforms Main Street into a lively,
immersive tribute to the past, connecting generations through craftsmanship, culture and shared history."
Honoring the past
One anticipated moment of the day will be the arrival of the Wagon Train, expected around 3 p.m. The wagon train tradition traces the route of early pioneers who traveled west in search of opportunity during the Gold Rush and remains a beloved symbol of the
region's heritage. Following the wagon train's arrival, organizers will host a memorial service honoring Davey "Doc" Wiser at approximately 3:30 p.m. Wiser was a longtime supporter of local history and a familiar figure at community events throughout the region.
Community and legacy
This year's celebration will also feature a new attraction designed specifically for children. The "Kiddy Corral" will o er a variety of interactive games inspired by familiar Main Street landmarks. Each activity will be hosted by a local nonprofit organization, providing families with an opportunity to learn about community services while children participate in hands-on activities.
"And let's not forget our newest featured attraction, the Kiddy Corral," Rezak said. "Designed especially for our youngest visitors, the Kiddy Corral o ers a series of fun and interactive games inspired by beloved Main Street landmarks. Each game is hosted
Dina Gentry
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra proudly celebrates the success of the 2026 Golf for Kids’ Sake tournament held at Serrano Country Club
enthusiasm and commitment from the community never wavered. Participants embraced the “Be a Force for Good” theme with positivity and purpose, proving once again that when a community comes together for young people, transformative
such a success,” said Florence Parks, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra. “Your sponsorships, volunteer hours, raffle tickets and every round played on the course help open doors for our local youth, giving them mentors who believe in them and opportunities to realize their full
Sponsor Daybreak Metro; Reception Sponsors Pabco Gypsum, Wells Fargo Advisors, Broadridge and Encanto Cocina & Tequila Bar; Hospitality Cart Sponsor Sierra Health Foundation; and Lunch Sponsors Gularte’s Great Deli & Pizza and Rehig Pacific
The organization also thanked the many businesses, volunteers, board members and community supporters who contributed silent auction prizes, food, beverages, on-course activities and countless hours behind the scenes.
“On a less-thanideal weather day, our supporters still came through for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra,” BBBSNS
Board Chair Rob Bilo said. “We exceeded our fundraising goals for the event and we couldn’t have done it without everyone in the community coming together and contributing. Thank you to the players and our
volunteers for making it happen.”
Golf for Kids’
Sake is one of the organization’s signature annual fundraisers, helping ensure that more local children are matched with caring mentors who provide
encouragement, stability and life-changing guidance through every stage of childhood. For more information about becoming a Big, supporting BBBSNS programs or participating in future events visit bbbsns.org.
El Dorado Farm Trails News release
resh local produce, live entertainment and a vibrant community atmosphere will return to historical downtown Placerville this summer as El Dorado Farm Trails launches its popular Certified Farmers Market season. The market will be held every Wednesday from June 3 through Oct. 28 at 574 Main St. in Placerville. Running from 4 p.m. until dusk, the weekly event offers residents and visitors an opportunity to enjoy fresh local produce, artisan foods, handcrafted goods and live
entertainment while supporting local farms and small businesses.
Free parking is available at the Ivy House parking lot across the street.
As a Certified Farmers Market, shoppers can purchase directly from local farmers and producers throughout El Dorado County and the surrounding region.
Seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, specialty foods and locally crafted products will be featured throughout the season.
Guests are encouraged to bring family and friends and enjoy fresh farm-grown produce, local artisan vendors, live music and entertainment, and a familyfriendly downtown experience.
“Our Wednesday evening
he U.S. Forest Service announced an additional 2026 recreation fee-free day on June 6 in celebration of National Trails Day, providing free access to all standard amenity recreation sites on national forests and grasslands.
National Trails Day was established by the American Hiking Society in 1993 and occurs annually on the first Saturday in June. It brings together federal land managers, partners and volunteers to celebrate trails and complete trail stewardship projects to ensure they are safe, well maintained, easy to follow and accessible.
“We are so excited to invite Americans to visit our national forests free of charge on National Trails Day and view the beauty of our nation in person!” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “We hope families and friends can come together and celebrate this special day, reconnect with our nation’s spirit
market is a wonderful way for the community to connect with local agriculture, support local small business, and enjoy the energy of downtown Placerville,” said Seana Hartsell, market manager for El Dorado Farm Trails. “We look forward to welcoming visitors with great fresh flavors all season long.”
The market is open to locals, tourists, families and visitors of all ages, providing an opportunity to connect with local agriculture while enjoying an evening in one of the region's most popular historical downtown districts. For information, vendor opportunities or weekly updates, visit edc-farmtrails.org.
in this positive setting and learn more about our amazing forest landscapes.”
“For National Trails Day in 2025, Forest Service trail managers, partners and volunteers hosted 80 events, including 54 stewardship projects, engaging more than 3,100 volunteers who maintained 173 miles of trail,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “We hope those who love Forest Service trails will join us at the trailhead on June 6, whether it’s volunteering to build new trails, picking up trash near a trailhead, participating in a nature walk or taking advantage of the fee-free day benefits.”
Find a local National Trails Day event and join the nationwide movement. Consider hosting an event in cooperation with local Forest Service staff if one does not currently exist near you. The Forest Service is also encouraging all visitors to take the #NationalTrailsDay pledge and commit to leaving trails better than they found them.
Buckeye Union School District News release
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, schools across Buckeye Union School District are taking time to honor the nation’s history, military service members and the meaning of being American through student performances, patriotic activities and community celebrations.
Superintendent David Roth said the events reflect the district’s commitment to civic learning and appreciation for the nation’s history and freedoms.
“Our schools are helping students understand that being American is not just something we study in history books, it is something we live through service, gratitude, freedom and community,” Roth said. “As we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary, it is inspiring to see students honoring veterans, learning patriotic traditions and celebrating the values that unite us as Americans.”
Rolling Hills Middle School — honored service families and veterans
Recently, students and staff at Rolling Hills Middle School gathered for a heartfelt semiquincentennial celebration recognizing veterans, active-duty military members and service families.
Principal Bowers reflected on the significance of the occasion and the sacrifices made throughout the nation’s history.
“For 250 years, our country has remained free and strong because of our brave military members. As a teacher of American literature, I remember working through the works of Thomas Paine and Patrick Henry, and their words, ‘These are the times that try men’s souls’ and ‘Give me liberty or give me death,’ still ring in my ears. What a privilege it was to be able to help kids understand the life we live and the freedoms we enjoy are because of the people in this very room.”
In honor of military families, Rolling Hills Middle School announced a goal of donating $2,500 to the Rolling Hills chapter of Blue Star Moms, with hopes of helping cover postage costs for 250 care packages for deployed service members.
Though students will be on summer break during the official national celebration, the school wanted to ensure the milestone did not go unrecognized.
“We didn’t want to miss this opportunity to pause and say thank you as we celebrate 250 years of this great nation,” Bowers said. “Above all, thank you for your service.”
The event included students from Mrs. Rose’s and Mrs. Boggini’s classes leading the Pledge of Allegiance, accompanied
by American Sign
Language; a welcome address from Bowers; time for students to personally thank veterans and military guests with handwritten notes; a student speech titled “What It Means to Be American” by Rivaan Tanneru; and a closing tribute honoring military service and patriotism.
Oak Meadow Elementary — hosted U.S.A. show
Students at Oak Meadow Elementary School celebrated America’s upcoming 250th anniversary with two USA Show performances.
The second-grade patriotic music program featured students learning and performing traditional patriotic songs in honor of America’s semiquincentennial.
Students first performed the show during a school assembly before presenting an evening performance for families and community
members.
Dedicated to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration, the performances highlighted patriotism, gratitude and appreciation for the freedoms and opportunities enjoyed in the United States. Through music and performance, students helped bring the spirit of America’s semiquincentennial celebration to life for the entire school community.
Buckeye Elementary — celebrated
Girl Scout Ambassador Kaitlin Fuller, a junior at Union Mine High School and an 11-year member of Girl Scouts, has earned the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouting.
Fuller was recognized during a May 16 ceremony, where she was selected as the Gold Award recipient speaker and delivered her remarks in both spoken English and American Sign Language.
The curriculum
Her Gold Award project, "Deaf Awareness Health Lesson Plans," is designed to bring deaf culture education, respectful communication practices and awareness of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals into high school health classrooms throughout El Dorado County. The curriculum provides readyto-use lessons intended to help students develop empathy, understanding and confidence when interacting with members of the deaf community.
Young person with 6-cylinder truck or SUV, able to lift approx. 50-lb wheelchair. Elderly handicapped male needs someone to drive him to run errands. 1 day/week, approx. 6 hours. $25/hr plus gas money.
Please email: bejacharlie@gmail.com
specialize in custom glass. Installation and repair, shower doors, windows, patio doors, decorative cabinets, mirrors and more! Call for a free estimate. 530-417-4237
The award marks the culmination of more than a decade of leadership and service through Girl Scouts. Fuller previously earned her Bronze Award by supporting animal welfare efforts at Fat Kitty City and completed her Silver Award by creating the Trail Adventure Woods Hike at Camp Fleming. Her Gold Award project builds on that foundation by developing a sustainable educational resource that can be used throughout the county.
The curriculum consists of three modules focused on deaf awareness, communication and culture. Students learn about deaf culture and identity, respectful strategies for communicating with deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, and the role of American Sign Language as both a language and a cornerstone of deaf culture. Each module includes Google Slides presentations, videos, worksheets and teacher guides aligned with California Health Education Standards. The materials are designed for educators with no prior experience in ASL or Deaf Studies and are available through a shared online resource for district administrators and health teachers.
Fuller said her interest in Deaf Studies began while searching for a way to fulfill a college world language requirement. Because dyslexia made traditional language classes difficult, she enrolled in American Sign Language courses through Sierra College and later Sacramento City College. She found ASL's visual and expressive nature both accessible and transformative, inspiring her to create opportunities for other students to learn about deaf culture and communication.
The project is already expanding across the county. A pilot program was completed at Union Mine High School, with broader implementation anticipated in fall 2026. Oak Ridge High School is also considering implementation during the same period, while meetings are planned with El Dorado High School administrators and discussions continue with Ponderosa High School. Earlier versions of the lessons were piloted at California Montessori Project classrooms serving students in transitional kindergarten through first grade and fourth through sixth grades.
Fuller credited numerous community members for helping bring the project to life. She thanked district leaders Pam Bartlett and Tony Deville, along with educators Scott Gilliland, Kim Ross, Stephanie Warner, Michelle Cooper, Patricia Hardy and Christina Sherrod. She also acknowledged the support of Girl Scout leaders Courtney Rose, Amy Amaral and Nikki Kimbrough.
In recognition of her achievement, Fuller received certificates of recognition from El Dorado Union High School District Superintendent Mike Kuhlman, California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber and U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla.
Beyond Girl Scouts, Fuller has served as an El Dorado County Youth Commissioner for two years
and is active in soccer, swimming and youth sports coaching. She also volunteers with the El Dorado Hills Tasmanian Devils and SwimClusion adaptive sports program. Friends and mentors describe her as a compassionate leader who consistently works to ensure others feel included, supported and valued.
Fuller said she plans to continue combining her passion for service and deaf studies as she pursues opportunities focused on helping people communicate, learn and connect more effectively.
The Girl Scout Gold Award is earned by fewer than 6% of Girl Scouts nationwide. Recipients identify a community issue, research its causes, develop a sustainable solution, lead a team and create measurable long-term impact. Projects require a minimum of 80 hours of leadership and must continue benefiting the community after the Girl Scout's direct involvement concludes.
Members of Girl Scout Troop 458 and the broader El Dorado County community celebrated Fuller's achievement, noting that her Deaf Awareness Health Lesson Plans provide a lasting educational resource and demonstrate the impact young leaders can have on their communities.
Food prices continue to rise, and many families have built chicken coops and established flocks of chatty chickens that happily produce fresh eggs. There is something soothing about listening to chickens as they strut around, seemingly gossiping with one another. Going out each day to gather those prized fresh eggs for a meal can be a satisfying experience. Eggs are a nutritious food that come conveniently packaged in their own shells. However, raw eggs can harbor salmonella, both on the shell itself and inside the egg. Eggshells can become contaminated with Salmonella from poultry droppings or from the area where the eggs are laid. Poultry infected with salmonella can also transfer the bacteria to the inside of eggs before the shells are formed.
salmonella can cause
serious foodborne illness, especially among vulnerable populations. For these reasons, it is important to handle and prepare raw eggs carefully. The following recommendations can help reduce the risk of contamination:
• Always wash your hands and any items that come into contact with raw eggs using soap and water. This includes utensils, dishes, cutting boards and countertops.
• Do not wash eggs. Commercial eggs are cleaned at processing plants. For homeproduced eggs, it is better to provide a clean environment because
improper washing can introduce contaminants into the egg.
• Discard cracked or dirty eggs.
• Keep eggs refrigerated at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
• Cook eggs until both the yolk and the white reach a temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Do not consume raw eggs or raw egg products, including sauces, salad dressings, tiramisu and batters, unless the eggs have been pasteurized.
For more information, the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources offers the publication “Egg Basics for the Consumer: Packaging, Storage, and Nutritional Information” (Publication8154), available at escholarship.org.
Learn more about UC Master Food Preserver classes, events and food preserving resources visit ucanr.edu/site/uccemaster-food-preserverscentral-sierra.
Astronauts, university scientists, NFL and NBA cheerleaders used kids’ help in collecting microbes from shoes, cell phones and the places where kids live, go to school and play.
It is part of an international Citizen Scientist project that will study microbes and map the different kinds of microbes on Earth. In March, some of the microbes traveled to space and are part of experiments on the International Space Station to study the effects of zero gravity on microbes.
Kids around the world swabbed for microbes at major sports arenas, movie theaters and other places where large groups of people gather. They even swabbed the bases at the home field of the San Francisco Giants.
On Christmas Day in 1900, Frank Chapman, an officer in the Audubon Society, decided to organize his friends to count birds. He didn’t know it then, but citizen science was born.
18 = Salmonella
Salmonella is a bacteria found on chicken and turkey that can make you sick if not cooked properly.
Citizen science asks people everywhere to observe or collect
something — birds, frogs, flowers, even microbes. This information, or data, is sent to trained scientists to analyze.
It’s like giving scientists thousands of eyes and hands to observe and collect information for their studies. And for kids and adults, it’s a chance to connect with the outside world in a real, meaningful — and often fun — way.
Microbes, sometimes called microorganisms, are tiny living things. They are so small they can only be seen with a microscope but they are all around us – and ON us, too. Many microbes are helpful, but some can cause illnesses. Here are some common microbes as seen through a microscope. Do the math to identify each of them.
19 = E. coli E. coli is a bacteria that lives in your gut. Some strains are required for good health, while others can make you sick.
20 = Influenza Influenza is a virus that can give you the illness commonly called “the flu” for short.
21 = Lactobaccilus casei
This important member of the microbial community in the human gut and is found in probiotics, such as yogurt and kefir.
How will microbes perform in space? UC Davis grew microbes from samples collected at sporting events and other interesting sites across the country. Microbes that impressed them on Earth were blasted into orbit for a zero-gravity growth competition. They’ll track what bacteria grow the fastest in space, and compare these stats to the microbial MVPs observed in the same growth competition on Earth.
To keep up with the latest on Project MERCURRI, visit SpaceMicrobes.org
Project MERCCURI is only one of thousands of different Citizen Science projects going on worldwide. To find out about other projects go to www.scistarter.com/.
Scientists analyze the results of experiments.
Continued from B1
by a local nonprofit organization, to share their mission and the services they provide to our community."
Celebrate 175 years of continuous operation by the Mountain Democrat at 11 a.m. during the downtown festivities. Mountain Democrat personnel will be present outside Placerville Hardware, the early location of the newspaper, to assist with the revealing of a plaque created by the Native Daughters of the Golden West Marguerite Parlor No. 12 to honor California’s oldest newspaper.
While the event celebrates Placerville's roots, organizers say its broader mission is education and community. Historical groups and cultural organizations will showcase the diverse stories of the people who contributed to the development of El Dorado County, helping visitors gain a deeper understanding of the area's past.
even know we're right there on the fairgrounds,” said Artistic Director Erin Butler.
Butler said the theater also plans to open during the county fair for the first time this year. The artsfocused showcase, she said, offers an opportunity to introduce new audiences to local theater while highlighting upcoming productions and performers.
In addition to exhibitors, attendees can sample complimentary offerings from local wineries, breweries and restaurants while taking part in raffles throughout the evening.
The event's film component, the I Love Film Mixer, has become a longstanding networking opportunity for filmmakers, vendors, casting professionals and businesses throughout the Sacramento-Sierra region.
“I am grateful to be part of a Film Mixer that has been inspiring regional film industry members for over a decade now,” said Kathleen Dodge, executive director of the El Dorado Lake Tahoe Film & Media Office.
Dodge described the mixer as a public service event that connects local filmmakers with industry professionals and businesses throughout the three-county region.
“It is an equally exciting opportunity for local community and regional businesses to learn how they can get involved with the film and TV producers who continue to find our small corner of the world so reliably
media friendly,” she said.
This year's featured speaker is veteran Hollywood producer Gregory Goodman, whose career spans major studio productions, independent dramas and award-winning films.
Dodge said organizers are especially excited to welcome Goodman because of his connection to Northern California through his latest project.
“Gregory Goodman is known for critical and commercial successes like ‘Captain Phillips,’ ‘8 Mile’ and many more,” she said. “He is dear to our NorCal hearts for the heroic story set in the Paradise fire, ‘The Lost Bus.’” Over the course of his career, Goodman has worked on films including “X-Men: First Class,” “Jason Bourne,” “News of the World,” “Civil War” and “The Lost Bus.” He also served as executive producer on “Three Kings,” “8 Mile” and “Captain Phillips.”
Most recently, Goodman produced “The Lost Bus,” directed by Paul Greengrass and starring Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera. The survival drama is based on the 2018 Camp Fire that devastated the town of Paradise and has earned industry recognition for its visual effects work.
Organizers say the combination of business networking, artistic expression and film industry engagement continues to make the annual event one of the county's largest and most diverse community gatherings.
Amina Sharma
California Native Plant Society
The California Native Plant Society has launched a new statewide initiative aimed at understanding how native plants support wildlife in urban areas, where the vast majority of Californians live.
The Biodiversity in Urban Gardens Initiative, known as BUG, is a two-year e ort that combines community science, public policy and civic engagement to promote biodiversity in urban landscapes. The project is funded in part by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation.
"By learning about the relationship between native plants and wildlife, we hope to unlock new insights on the crucial role native plants have in our ecosystems," said Lila Higgins, director of education and horticulture for the California Native Plant Society. "Urban ecosystems are often overlooked when it comes to biodiversity, yet they are rich in wildlife, as anyone who's ever observed birds or butterflies in cities can attest. With 94% of Californians living in urban areas, we need to choose the plants that best support life there."
How to participate
The initiative invites residents throughout California to participate in community science projects that document native plants and wildlife in urban environments.
One component is a statewide project that encourages participants to record observations of
2014Rod.F@gmail.com
native plants and wildlife in gardens dominated by native species. Observations will be uploaded through the iNaturalist platform using a smartphone or digital camera. Organizers said no prior experience with the app is required.
A second project, the Santa Clara Valley Paired Garden Study, will focus on 10 gardens at five paired sites in Santa Clara County. The study will be conducted in partnership with community-based organizations, with trained volunteers documenting species diversity and abundance.
Participants will receive training in biodiversity data collection and later learn how to connect scientific observations with public policy and advocacy e orts. In late 2026, the project will shift its focus to analyzing collected data and exploring how scientific findings can inform urban biodiversity policies.
The initiative also includes the creation of an annotated bibliography of published research related to urban biodiversity.
"BUG provides an exciting opportunity for the public to engage in community science," said Vivian Neou, co-president of the California Native Plant Society's Santa Clara Valley Chapter and president of the organization's board of directors. "Participants will discover more about their local environment, deepening their connection and appreciation for it while helping to capture vital information about it."
Neou said organizers hope participants will
become involved in advocacy e orts to protect biodiversity and support greater access to native plants and natural spaces.
Conservation in urban landscapes
California is considered a biodiversity hotspot and is home to more plant and animal species than any other state. However, the state has lost an estimated 70% of its original native vegetation because of development, invasive species and climate change.
According to the organization, urban landscapes can complement conservation e orts by providing habitat, improving ecological connectivity and supporting ecosystem functions. Native plants can also reduce water use, improve climate resilience and expand access to nature in developed communities.
Organizers said the BUG Initiative is designed to be scalable and replicable, serving as a model for future community science programs focused on biodiversity and civic engagement.
More information about the Biodiversity in Urban Gardens Initiative is available at the California Native Plant Society's website.
The California Native Plant Society is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting native plants and habitats through science, education, stewardship, gardening and advocacy. The organization has more than 13,000 members and 35 chapters throughout California and Baja California, Mexico.
American history and patriotism
Second-grade students at Buckeye Elementary School presented “The Greatest Americans of the 20th Century,” a student play assembly honoring influential Americans who helped shape the nation through leadership, innovation, service and perseverance. Through performances and presentations, students highlighted notable figures from American history while learning about the impact individuals can have on the country and the world.
Buckeye Elementary will continue its semiquincentennial celebration with a patrioticthemed end-of-year Field Day. Students will participate in outdoor activities and games featuring red, white and blue themes while celebrating teamwork, school pride and America’s 250th anniversary.
Blue Oak Elementary — performed patriotic tribute
At Blue Oak Elementary School, first-grade students celebrated America’s upcoming 250th
downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Ed Wilson will perform at Placerville Speedway, 4-6 p.m.
Sierra Vista Winery will host Food Wine & Live Music by Old West Trio 5-8 p.m.
For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.
Historical Murer House in Folsom presents Lavender Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit murerhousefoundation.org.
The Sacramento Guitar Society
California, 95619
Open Daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
(530) 748-3202 4232 Fowler Lane, Suite 201 Diamond Springs, CA 95619
anniversary during the school’s Monday Morning Assembly.
As part of the patriotic celebration, first-grade classes performed the classic American folk song “This Land Is Your Land,” recognizing the shared history, diversity and spirit of the United States. The performance highlighted themes of unity, pride and appreciation for the country while giving students an opportunity to participate in the districtwide semiquincentennial celebration.
William Brooks Elementary — spirit day and heritage festival performance
Students and sta are also joining the districtwide semiquincentennial celebration through patrioticthemed activities and performances.
The school is holding a Patriots Day Spirit Day in which students and sta are encouraged to wear red, white and blue in honor of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
Additionally, during the annual Buckeye USD Heritage Festival, William Brooks second- and third-grade students performed patriotic songs while dressed in patriotic attire, showcasing their
presents Davis Community Guitar Orchestra’s Summer Concert at 3 p.m. at Watermelon Music 1970 Lake Blvd. Suite 1, Davis. For more information visit sacguitarsociety.org.
Folsom Lake Symphony presents American Salute at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter. net.
Now
Balls are available for The Marshall Foundation for Community Health’s Golf Ball Drop to take place during its sold out Drive for Marshall Golf Tournament on June 26. Sheri Je Leikauf will bring out the department’s ECHO 1 helicopter to drop balls on the green. Those who have the ball closest to the hole wins. For more information visit marshallfound.org.
Registration is now open for Gold Discovery Park Association’s Junior Ranger Summer Day Camp — Four-day outdoor camp for youth featuring hands-on activities in nature, including ecology, geology, re safety and crafts. Sessions are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Session One (ages 7-9): June 29-July 2. Session Two (ages 10-12): July 20-23. Snacks provided; bring lunch. Learn more at golddiscoveryparkassociation. org.
El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents East of the Golden Gate the enduring legacy of Chinese settlers in El Dorado County on display through June 6. For more information visit edchs.org.
school spirit and appreciation for the nation’s history and traditions.
Through music, participation and schoolwide activities, William Brooks students are helping celebrate the spirit of America and the importance of community, citizenship and national pride.
Celebrating the next generation of Americans
Across the Buckeye Union School District, these events reflect not only pride in the nation’s history but also gratitude for the individuals who protect the freedoms students enjoy every day.
By combining civic learning, student voice, service and community appreciation, Buckeye schools are helping students understand the importance of citizenship, democracy and honoring those who serve.
As America prepares to celebrate its semiquincentennial in 2026, Buckeye Union School District is proud to help inspire the next generation to appreciate the nation’s past while helping shape its future.
presents “Looters, Loopholes & Legacies” or “Under The Ground And Over The Top” through June 28. For tickets and more information, go to oldecolomatheatre.com.
Art on Center, the Center for Native, Latino and Indigenous Art at 3182 Center St. in Placerville will host Internally Speaking featuring artwork by JaimEfrain BrisenOchoa through June 28. To learn more email artoncenteredc@gmail.com.
The Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Botanical Brushstrokes through July 19. For more information visit edhtowncenter. com.
Since 1981, we have been leading the way in affordable rental housing with one goal: to create stable, vibrant, and healthy communities.
Registration is live for the 2026 Wheelbarrow Races to take place Saturday June 20 from 5-8 p.m. at the El Dorado County Fair. For more information or to register visit studebakerwheelbarrowraces.
Arts and Culture El Dorado will host Pictures and Pages: Illustrators of El Dorado County, at Switchboard Gallery through June 7. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.
The Olde Coloma Theatre
Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Espejos: Clean” through June 7. For tickets and more information call (916) 9955464 or visit capstage.org.
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Cinderella” through June 21. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “A Funny Thing
This new multifamily housing community will include 65 affordable rental apartments for families, with 15 homes reserved for veterans and formerly homeless individuals. The community will include 20 one-bedroom, 27 two-bedroom, and 18 three-bedroom apartments with rents affordable to households with incomes ranging from 30% to 60% of the Area Median Income.
Happened on the Way to the Forum” through June 28. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
The Gallery at 48 Natoma presents Sombremesa, ceramic works and paintings by Alejandra and Luis Magaña of ALMa Design Studio through July 1 with an artist reception from 6-8 p.m. For more information call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us/ government/parks-recreation/ facilities/gallery-at-48-natoma.
Folsom History Museum presents Ride ‘Em Cowboy – the Folsom Rodeo Exhibition through Jan. 4, 2027. Learn more at folsomhistory.org.
Check out Placerville Cars and Co ee every Saturday, 7-9 a.m. at Lions Park. Hang out with other car enthusiasts.
El Dorado Hills Cars and Co ee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. The motto is “If it rolls, it goes.”
65 affordable rental apartments for families, with 15 homes reserved for veterans and formerly homeless individuals. The community will include 20 one-bedroom, 27 two-bedroom, and 18 three-bedroom apartments with rents affordable to households with incomes ranging from 30% to 60% of the Area Median Income.
Amenities & Services:
• Playground
• Indoor lounge
• Laundry center
• Courtyard
• Community space
• Community space • On-site parking • Resident services • On-site property management
• On-site parking
Pre-Applicatio ns period begins 9 a. m., May
• Resident services
• On-site property management
Application Process:
Pre-Applicatio ns period begins 9 a. m., May 14, 2 026 and ends 1p.m., May 2 9, 2026. Pre-Appl ications received after the lottery dead l ine of 1:00 p.m. o n Friday, May 29, w ill be p l aced on the wai tlist in the order received, foll o wing all l ottery applican ts. Pre-Applicati ons can be obtained in p erson from our t e mporary leasing office, locate d at White Rock Village, 2 20 0 Valley View Parkway, El Dorad o H i lls, CA, 95762, or by
the order received, foll o wing all l ottery applican ts. Pre-Applicati ons can be obtained in p erson from our t e mporary leasing office, locate d at White Rock Village, 2 20 0 Valley View Parkway, El Dorad o H i lls, 95762,