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 o ces 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
Susan Ellen Wells
June 18, 1946 – Jan. 17, 2026
On Saturday, January 17, 2026
Jesus welcomed our mother Susan Ellen Wells into her eternal home in heaven. She was born June 18th, 1946 in Bakersfield, California to Harold and Mary Jane. She was raised in Sacramento and attended Norte Del Rio High School. She met the love of her life in 1961 and was married at the tender age of 16. There was no standing in the way of our parents starting their life together. The true definition of soul mates. Our parents were married in 1963, and lived in Long Beach, where Larry served in the Navy, this is also where they started their family.
Susan lived her life with a heart for children. She worked in the child care industry the majority of her adult life, receiving her Associates Degree in Child Development from American River College. Susan settled in El Dorado, California in 1989 and continued Susan’s Daycare where she influenced countless children’s lives and helped care for her grandchildren as well.
Our parents went on cruises, traveled to Hawaii and eventually bought a motor home and made camping (RVing) a regular occurrence. They loved taking trips with their grandchildren and friends where many amazing memories were made.
They found their church home at Green Valley Community Church in Placerville, California. They firmly planted their feet in service to Jesus. Our mom volunteered regularly and participated in Bible study groups up until her health declined. After the death of our father in 2013, our mom was wholly committed to her children and grandchildren and eventually great grandchildren, they truly were her life delight. She fully retired in 2015.
Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Mary Jane, her husband Larry and her brothers, Christopher and Daniel. She is survived by her brother Steven, spouse Marcia, her sister Cynthia, spouse Galen, sister in love Judy, her daughter Tamara Middleton, spouse Bryan Sr, son, Larry D. Wells, spouse Glendia, daughter, Kathleen Day, spouse Timothy, grandchildren, Jessica Wolfe, spouse Kevin, DJ Wells, spouse Ashley, Bryan Middleton Jr. , Andrew Middleton, spouse Nicole, Jacob Wells, Savannah Day, Stephanie Wells, Joshua Middleton, spouse, Morgan, Alexis Day, Jonathan Mathew, spouse Yesenia and Bailey Day. Four great grandchildren, Evelyn, Eliza, Brayden and Colton. There are many nieces and nephews all that had special places in our mom’s heart. And the Lord said, “you’ve fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. There is in store for you the crown of righteousness which I will reward to you”. What a celebration it was when our mom was reunited with the ones she loved who have gone before and there was no more fear and no more pain, rewarded with the immediate presence of Christ.
Please join us for a celebration of life on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 1:00 pm, at Green Valley Community Church, 3500 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville, Ca.
Sharyn Miller
April 25, 1945 – April 11, 2026
Sharyn was born on April 25, 1945, to Edgar and Arvolla Spiva in Yuba City, California. She was preceded in death by both her parents and brother Edgar Jr.
After she graduated from Yuba City High School she worked for an airline company in San Francisco. After moving back to the Sacramento area, she attended Sacramento Jr. College where she received her degree, with honors. She then worked for various school districts in the administration department. She retired from Ponderosa High School in May of 2000.
Sharyn is survived by her husband (Bob), daughter Jyll Flippo (Alan), 2 grandsons and 7 great grandchildren.
Sharyn was a very gifted woman who could sing, dance, knit, and crochet. She enjoyed doing them all. She also loved working with the children in Awana.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday June 13, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Foothills Church 3939 Cambridge road, Cameron Park California 95682. In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations to the Placerville Pregnancy Center. You can add pictures and comments at greenvalleymortuary.com
Eleanor “Elly” Kozlowski
March 6, 1937 – April 8, 2026
Eleanor “Elly” Kozlowski, 89, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026.
Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she was the second youngest of five children of Ray and Ermalinda Braun. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Tom, sister Colleen, and brothers “Bud,” “Skip,” and Dave. She is survived by her eight children: Sr. MaryBeth, SDSH, Chris, John, Karen, Teresa, Marie, Anne and Stephen, as well as 10 grandchildren.
At 89 years old, she leaves behind a legacy of ledgers, lists, and figures to make any accountant’s wife proud. The numbers of her life are staggering: 62 years of devoted marriage, 8 children, 42 years calling Placerville home, and no fewer than 100 days per year during retirement spent hiking, snowshoeing, or kayaking. She kept endless lists of books read and those waiting to be devoured and dissected with her book club. Yet if the exact quantity read remains a mystery, her love of reading surely fueled her sense of adventure and empathy for others.
Driven by a deep Catholic faith, Elly embraced a philosophy of service: where she saw injustice or inequality, she actively sought solutions. Throughout her life, she was involved with over half a dozen charities, both at St. Emydius parish in Lynwood, CA, and St. Patrick’s in Placerville, and in the wider community. She gave her time generously, happy to serve others in both grand and simple ways, all while caring for her large family.
A miracle-maker in the kitchen, one year she helped roast 47 turkeys for the St. Patrick Thanksgiving Community Dinner. She was a leader in the founding of the “Upper Room” Dining Hall and possessed the rare talent of making something out of nothing and anything out of ground beef. Meanwhile in her home kitchen, she produced dozens upon dozens of baked goods annually, including her ever-popular peanut butter bars.
She believed in recording details and recounting stories — like making her children tally every single strawberry picked from the garden one summer. Yet, she balanced this record-keeping discipline with a storytelling wit and a lively sense of humor. Blessed with the gift of the gab, she could make friends with strangers everywhere and loved swapping stories, even the ones you may have already heard.
A dedicated adventurer with the “Hangtown Hikers,” she trekked over 500 miles a year well into her 70s, always eager to see the waterfall at the end of the trail or whatever was around the next bend. Her travels are documented in a collection of over 300 maps, journals, and photos, a testament to her curiosity and a life filled with the delight of exploration.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:
The Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart https://sacredheartsisters.com/donations/ or Snowline Hospice.
A memorial mass will be held at 10am on Saturday, June 20th at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Placerville, California, with a Rosary at 9:30am and a luncheon afterwards.
Caroline Je erson
Jan. 13, 1942 – May 18, 2026
Caroline Je erson died of natural causes in her son Everette’s home in Placerville, with him present. She had been ill for several months.
Victoria Anne Marie Perez Mott
Sept. 23, 1955 – Feb. 25, 2026
Victoria Anne Marie Perez Mott, born September 23, 1955, went to visit her angels February 25, 2026.
Victoria lived her entire life in California, which began in Berkeley. She and her family first lived in Merced, but in 1960 her mother Rose packed up young Victoria and her four sisters and moved them to their little red house on Smith Flat Road in Placerville. Victoria was the fourth girl in line of Rose’s children.
She attended kindergarten through second grade at Smith Flat School, followed by Sierra, Edwin Markam, and El Dorado High School where she graduated in 1973. She took various classes at American River Junior college here in Placerville as well.
After her graduation from high school she moved to Southern California, worked briefly for Flight Connector in Hawthorn, then moved to Hermosa Beach where she worked for Jeans West. She lived in Hermosa Beach amongst artists and very creative Bohemian people where she fit right in. Victoria moved back to Placerville in 1975. She worked at Hangtown Pharmacy for a time then gained employment at Security Pacific Bank, which later became U.S. Bank. In 1977 Victoria married William C. Mott to whom she remained married for almost 49 years.
Victoria and William raised two beautiful girls together in their home which she a ectionately called “Mott Mountain” in Smith Flat. In 2003 she retired from banking and became a successful “lampwork” bead artist owning several small galleries. Her outgoing spirit led her to join and/ or lead many organizations in the community including art associations, Girl Scouts, El Dorado High School Band-Aids, Travel Concepts International’s tour groups, El Dorado Mineral and Gem Society, Jeepers’ Jamboree, St. Patrick Ladies’ Society, and St. Patrick Family Group.
Victoria loved life, dancing, art, music, her family, friends, U.S. and world travel. Her travels sent her as far as Southeast Asia, Russia, Turkey and Peru.
She is survived by her husband William, her daughters Sarah Beal and Allison Wertens, five grandchildren, Tucker Trana, Lilly Beal, Charlie Trana, Rose Trana and Timothy Beal. Her sisters, Mary Jo Howard, Cyd Perez, Linda Keep, and Patricia Ram remain, all of whom live locally and gave her much joy throughout life.
She is a beautiful soul and has ascended into heaven to fly amongst the Angels.
A celebration of life will be held, Saturday, May 30 in Shingle Springs, CA. Please contact a family member for more information.
Jimmie Dwayne Jobe
June 15th, 1943 – April 4th, 2026
Jimmie (Jim) Jobe, 82, resident of Cameron Park, CA passed away at home on April 4th, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Linda Sue Jobe; his sons, Mike (Jeni) Jobe and Je Jobe; his stepchildren, Gina (Todd) Keel, Byron (Cathy) Jobe, and Ginny Jobe; and his cherished grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Born June 15th, 1943, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Jim grew up in St. Helena, California, where he made lifelong friends and learned the value of hard work while helping his family grow vegetables and grapes for winemaking. A gifted electrical engineer with a love of cars, he joined the U.S. Navy in 1962 to specialize in nuclear electronics, but returned home to help care for his mother. Jim built a long career with the state of California and in corporate security management, retiring in 2011.
Jim and Sue shared a life full of travel, road trips, camping, and joyful gatherings that made friends feel like family. They loved opening their home for holidays and pool parties, and cherished their many trips to Mexico and Hawaii.
For over 30 years, Jim was a devoted member of the Poker Plus Club, creating lifelong friendships. In retirement, he enjoyed winemaking, rug hooking, and various other activities with Sue and family.
Jim will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and steady willingness to help others.
Services will be held at Miller Funeral Home in Folsom, CA on May 29th, 2026 at 11am.
Caroline is survived by her 3 adult children: Trent Je erson, Kimberlee Perez and Everette Je erson, all local. She also has 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Caroline was married to Delmos L. Je erson for 67 years, his death preceded hers by two months. She will be missed tremendously and loved forever.
Caroline did not want a funeral. Her family will have a celebration of life in the coming weeks.
Track and field stars extend post-season run
Mike Bush Mountain Democrat correspondent
Three El Dorado County high school track and field programs have extended their post season for one more week thanks to strong finishes at the CIF SacJoaquin Section Masters Track and Field Finals held May 23 at Bulldog Stadium on the Folsom High School campus. Oak Ridge, Ponderosa and Union Mine will be represented at the California Interscholastic Federation State Track and Field Championships that will take place at Veterans Memorial Stadium on the Buchanan High School campus in Clovis starting this Friday, May 29.
Top finishers for El Dorado were Maya Musgrove, a junior who took seventh place in the women’s 300meter hurdles at 46.37 seconds, and the Cougar girls 4x800 relay team — Kendall Campora, Serentiy Lemmons, Misty Blair and Aliyah Weber — took eighth place at 9:57.01.
Here is the list of athletes who finished in the top four, or earned a berth by a qualifying time, in their events:
Oak Ridge — Allie Anastacio, a senior, took second place in the triple jump at 37 feet, 8 ½ inches. At the section’s divisional meet at Hughes Stadium on the Sacramento City College campus on May 16, she set a school and personal record at 38 feet, 2 ½ inches. Karen Trapani had the previous record in the triple jump in 1997. Anastacio also took 11th place in the long jump at even 17 feet.
Chase Fontana had a fourth-place finish in the 100 meters with a time of 10.90 seconds. He was also sixth in the 200 meters at 22.02 seconds.
Ponderosa — Emmy Angelo is the lone Bruin advancing to the state meet, after she took fourth place in the women’s 3200-meter race at Masters with a time of 10 minutes, 44.06 seconds. Angelo, a senior, is the team captain.
Union Mine — Patrick Pinjuv took fifth place in the men’s 800 meters for the Diamondbacks, clocked at 1:52.65. However, he earned a berth to the state meet because the qualifying time was 1:53.
Eliza Hodnett was in a three-way tie for ninth place in the high jump at 5 feet, 2 inches.
Coaches, get your team in the Mountain Democrat! Send game scores, highlights and photos to nstack@mtdemocrat.net.
American Dental Association (ADA) is offering new advice for the parents of young
Previously, the ADA recommended that parents start using a pea-size amount of toothpaste on baby teeth, beginning at 24 months of age. The ADA now recommends that, twice daily, parents use a smear of fluoride toothpaste to brush baby teeth as soon as they erupt. Once children are three to six years old, the amount of toothpaste used with each brushing should be increased to a pea-size drop. This new recommendation is being made to combat the increasing number of cavities among the very young. At the same time, only the tiniest amount of fluoride toothpaste should be used to minimize the risk of “fluorosis.”
This column on the significance of tooth brushing has been
brought to you in the interest of better oral health. We use the most modern equipment and advanced dental techniques in a relaxing environment to provide the highest quality dental care to all of our patients. With regular professional dental care you and your children can become one of the millions of people who smile with confidence. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us. We offer “Tooth Print,” which is an impression of a child’s full mouth. About the size of a small wafer, the impression is
Photos by Mike Bush
Union Mine’s Patrick Pinjuv, left, holds the lead in the men’s 800-meters race at the SJS Track and Field Masters at Bulldog Stadium on the Folsom High School campus on Saturday. Pinjuv, a senior, took fifth place but
Emmy Angelo (No. 14), right, stays with a group of runners in the
Oak Ridge’s Allie Anastacio kicks up some sand in the women’s long jump. The recent grad earned a berth to the state meet in the triple jump last weekend.
El Dorado’s Kendall Campora runs behind two competitors in the women’s 4x800 relay race at Masters. Campora and the Cougars took eighth place.
OPINION
California Matters
Bullet train progress and finances are still stalled
Construction of the 1,911-mile transcontinental railroad connecting California with the eastern half of the United States began in 1863, while the nation was engaged in a bloody civil war, and was completed six years later when its two legs were joined at Promontory Summit in Utah.
California’s bullet train project was launched in 2008 when voters passed a $9.95 billion bond issue on promises that it would be completed by 2020, whisking passengers from one end of the state to the other.
Eighteen years later, an initial segment in the San Joaquin Valley, linking a station near Merced with one near Bakersfield, is little more than a skeleton of concrete supports, dubbed Stonehenge by some critics, with no track, no trains and, therefore, no service.
It is a hot mess that’s contributing to California’s reputation for managerial incompetence — as a recent episode of CBS network’s “60 Minutes” underscored. The program’s interviews with project o cials ripped open their inability to explain how and when the bullet train would be completed.
Oddly, as the project’s financial viability has shriveled, Gov. Gavin Newsom, once highly critical, has become its most visible champion, staging media events to tout even its tiniest advances.
Twelve years ago, while serving as lieutenant governor, Newsom was scornful. In a 2014 recorded interview, he concluded, “The facts seem overwhelming that this project is not going to materialize in our lifetime.”
The project was a mess when Newsom became governor; it will be a mess for his successor and it will probably be a mess when the next governor departs.
Five years later, in his first State of the State address, Newsom once again questioned the bullet train’s viability.
“Let’s be real,” Newsom told legislators. “The project as currently planned would cost too much and take too long. There’s been too little oversight and not enough transparency. Right now, there simply isn’t a path to get from Sacramento to San Diego, let alone from San Francisco to L.A.” Newsom’s remarks were widely interpreted as him wanting to pull the plug. But after construction unions and other advocates pushed back, he insisted he wanted to see the project become reality,
■ See WALTERS, page A7
Letter to the Editor
Gina Posey can do
more
EDITOR:
Iam a longtime resident of Shingle Springs and have been an active member of the Shingle Springs Community Center for eight years. I met Gina Posey at a community fundraiser in April 2023. She introduced herself and then asked me how she could help. Initially I thought she wanted to make a donation, but she gave so much more. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with her and watch the positive impact she has had on our community. She is ready again to give more of herself to our district.
When Gina joined the community center’s board, she didn’t dawdle; she worked. She leads by example and strengthens community involvement by inspiring others to do likewise. More importantly, she follows through on her commitments.
I watched Gina collaborate with a variety of di erent personalities and perspectives within multiple organizations in order to turn project ideas into action, and successfully navigate
conflicts during execution, remaining respectful to those with di ering opinions. Some people have called her pushy, and that’s OK by me because pushy means supportive and motivational, not allowing others to give up before they have reached the common goal. Imagine having a person like Gina working to fix our fire insurance and safety issues, or making county departments more e cient. We need her in a position where she can do more for us.
Wherever Gina is, the tasks get done. Gina directed the community center’s capital campaign, helping to raise more than $30,000 for important facility updates, including a full bathroom remodel that was delayed for decades. She also re-introduced ra es to quarterly fundraiser o erings and pioneered an annual Poker Tournament, which is now the center’s top fundraiser. I’m not sure how she does it, but she is e ective and our district needs her as our voice. I never thought I would write an endorsement but Gina is worthy. She doesn’t just support
■ See LETTER, page A8
The Rural Life
Is President Donald Trump the king of corruption?
Ayear ago last month, I wrote in this column that I hoped Americans did not want the U.S. to become like Hungary. That’s the central European nation President Donald Trump famously called one of the most admirable countries in the world.
What a di erence a year makes! Now I’m hoping we might indeed follow Hungary’s lead in the way its citizens have repudiated their country’s corrupt, anti-democratic political system. They’ve done this by kicking Viktor Orbán, Trump’s closest European ally, out of o ce.
But I’m getting ahead of the story. When I wrote about Hungary last April, Orbán had been its prime minister for 15 continuous years. He achieved this unprecedented term by tinkering with the levers of government to keep his Fidesz party in power.
According to the Associated Press, Orbán and his allies “restructured the judiciary to funnel appointments to the bench through party loyalists, redrew legislative districts [gerrymandering!] to make it much harder for Fidesz members to lose elections and helped push Hungary’s media companies to be sold to tycoons allied with Orbán.”
If any of that sounds disturbingly familiar, it’s because similar maneuverings — and more — have been going on in this country ever since Donald Trump’s return to the presidency in 2024. Project 2025, the Trump Administration’s playbook for taking control of the government and key institutions — at flood-the-zone speed — was developed with the input from Orbán’s team.
But now Orbán is out, mainly because his autocratic ways led to
Now, to be fair, not everything Trump’s done has been bad for America, of course, and other presidents have done bad things as well.
pervasive corruption. Orbán’s family, including his father and son-in-law, have acquired vast wealth through real estate and construction/supply contracts for public infrastructure projects. According to Deutsche Welle News, anti-corruption experts estimate between 20-28 billion euros may’ve been channeled to an inner network of relatives and oligarchs over Orbán’s total time in o ce.
That level of corruptions has, in turn, resulted in standards of living in Hungary that are nearly the lowest in the European Union (23rd out of 28 member states).
“It’s fine to say Orbán lost because the Hungarian economy and healthcare system were a mess,” wrote conservative journalist and author Jonah Goldberg in the News Herald. “But that mess stemmed from Orbán’s corruption.”
The landslide winner in Hungary’s
April 12 election was Peter Magyar of the center-right Tisza party. Though Magyar shares much of Orbán’s conservative ideology, he’s a reformer who aims to restore democratic checks and balances, dismantle the “propaganda machine” and combat corruption.
“From now on, we will no longer be a country without consequences,” he proclaimed in his victory speech. “Those who have robbed the country will be held accountable [as will those who] incited hatred between Hungarians.”
How much are events in America echoing Orbán’s Hungary? Consider, for starters, the president’s everchanging tari policies. These are a form of leverage that compel companies and countries alike to ante up personal, political or financial
■ See FORSBERG MEYER, page A7
JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER
DAN WALTERS
Continued from A4
with a lengthened the San Joaquin Valley segment.
Last February, his cheerleading took him to Kern County to celebrate a small supportive project.
“Here on the high-speed rail system, we’re now in the process of starting to lay track, 119-mile first phase, fully funded because of the investments we’ll make through the cap-and-invest program through 2045,” he said.
“Seventeen hundred people every single day — union jobs — go to work on this project. Fifty-eight large-scale
Forsberg Meyer
favors in “pay to play” scenarios.
structures have been completed; 29 others under way; 99% of the environmental work done. All of the hard work is behind us. Now we’re going to see the fruits of that. We’re going to start seeing precisely what you see here, real tracks, real progress.”
All of the hard work done? Not by a long shot. At best, it will take another six years — the same time span of the transcontinental railroad — before trains are carrying passengers, and
In some cases Trump himself has received lavish gifts through tariff leverage, as when — in one small example — Swiss business leaders gave him an engraved 1-kilogram gold bar (worth approximately $150,000) and a golden Rolex desk clock as part of a “deal” to lower a 39% tariff rate to 15% in November of last year.
The Trump Administration has also wielded executive orders, legal threats and the withholding of federal funding to force universities, cities and institutions to comply with administration policies.
This strategy has included freezing billions in research grants. According to the National Institutes of Health, as of early 2026 the Trump administration has terminated roughly 2,300 NIH grants, halting hundreds of clinical trials — including many for cancer and dementia research.
Then there’s the enrichment of Trump and his family, at a time when middle- and lowerclass Americans are struggling to afford gas and groceries. According to Forbes, the president’s personal net worth jumped from $3.9 billion in 2024 to roughly $7.3 billion by late 2025.
Meanwhile, according to Time magazine, the Trump family’s total wealth may’ve nearly doubled, to an estimated $10 billion. The upsurge is thanks in part to questionable cryptocurrency ventures like World Liberty Financial, which faces severe criticism regarding conflicts of interest and regulatory compliance. Also contributing to the Trump family’s wealth are media mergers, overseas corporate deals and suspected insider trading on a scale “never before seen,” as the president himself
might put it.
that would only be between stations near two rural cities. Moreover, to get that far the project must borrow construction money by pledging its $1 billion a year from emission auctions.
The saga’s latest chapter is a new “business plan,” pegging the cost of linking San Francisco to the Los Angeles area by 2040 at $126 billion.
In response, the Legislative Analyst’s Office issued a critique that listed the plan’s shortcomings, concluding that it didn’t meet state law requirements for transparency on costs and other
As I write this, the president’s Department of Justice has just allocated $1.8 billion for a government slush fund. The New York Times Editorial Board is calling this “an obvious form of corruption, coming from a president who has used his office to enrich himself, his family and his allies.”
This fund, states the board, will serve to “reward loyalists willing to defy the law and commit violence on behalf of the president” — including, presumably, convicted Jan. 6 rioters.
Now, to be fair, not everything Trump’s done has been bad for America, of course, and other presidents have done bad things as well. But the
points. The project was a mess when Newsom became governor; it will be a mess for his successor and it will probably be a mess when the next governor departs.
The old saying about beating a dead horse and hoping it will revive comes to mind.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters. org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
sheer scope and depth and purposefulness of this president’s harms are truly beyond compare.
So, just as Hungarians came together to say “enough!” of Orbán’s corruption and divisiveness, I hope a change in our politics may also be coming … a change that restores the checks and balances our founders intended, improves safeguards against corruption and restores civility as the default mode of American politics.
Please vote carefully in the coming midterms.
Jennifer Forsberg Meyer is a columnist with the Mountain Democrat and the author of “Friends With Four Legs.” Leave a comment for her online or, for a reply, reach her at jfmfeedback@gmail.com.
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Join the Gold Country CribbersWe Play - We Teach - We Have Fun Wednesdays 4:00 PM, Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA, 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452
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.
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ARIES (March 21-April 19). There’s a tedious bit of work to be done and a knotty problem to solve, but none of it seems so bad because you’ve a song in your heart and a very intriguing project or person to spend time with later.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You’ve done hard things before so you know you can. You’re not afraid to get in there and get it done if that’s what’s needed, but the assessment stage is key. You won’t skip it.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). It’s a day for dreaming. If you can build it in your head, you can, in time, make it real in your world. The more energy, creativity and specificity you put into the vision, the happier you’ll be living it.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). There’s a kind of pride that comes from being good for your word, and then there’s another kind of pride — puffed up and trying to look important to cover insecurity. Know the difference and you’ll know who’s trustworthy.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). When you can explain something in plain language, you really understand it. If you can’t, that’s something to refine. You’ll love the satisfaction that comes with having deep and thorough knowledge on a topic and being able to prove that.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). It’s good to get excited about what you want without worrying about the price tag right away. Life imposes limits. Why start imposing them in the imagination phase? Be free, think wildly and unreasonably.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Any change you make to yourself will also change the situation. So today, the point is not to find a better situation. That will naturally emerge from the better you you’re bringing to it.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The silence doesn’t need to be filled. It’s not dead space, it’s just space, vibrating with possibility. Leave room for potential and trust that others can see it, too. You’ll be delighted by what strolls in on its own accord.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’re a master of diplomacy, which comes easily to you because you can see where people are coming from. Some have been misinformed and may be receptive to learning as you approach with deep respect.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). It seems life’s demands make it harder to develop the habits, disciplines, dynamics and interests you desire. Maybe so, but even one small change will lighten the whole load. Start small and take heart. This is doable.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Some people lead with the question: “what’s in it for me?” It doesn’t benefit you to serve or entertain everyone from the get-go. Ease into learning people. It will save you from the work of
TTriangle Well Drilling Western Sign Co., Inc.
he Mountain Democrat’s Newspapers in Education program (NIE) was established in 2002 to provide and educational service arm for the newspaper.
NIE’s goal is to assist schools, teachers and parents in developing future readers who can use the newspaper to enrich their own lives and participate responsibly in their community, state and nation.
Not only does the Mountain Democrat provide valuable information on a wide range of topics daily, it also can be used as a resource for teaching numerous skills to various age groups and in many different disciplines. It helps students connect classroom lessons to the real world around them and develop a positive and
relevant lifetime reading habit. A study released by the Newspaper Association of America Foundation shows data indicating students in NIE programs do 10 percent better on standardized tests and that significant increases in student performances occur, especially in middle schools. Donations from our sponsors allow our educators to order the newspaper for their classrooms free of charge. These sponsorships contribute to literacy and allow thousands of teachers and students in El Dorado County to learn from a living textbook, the Mountain Democrat, and develop a life-long reading habit that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Please show these sponsors your support for the program by patronizing their businesses.
n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
n RUBES by Leigh Rubin
n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
AWESOME
Families couldn’t resist spoiling the grads. Above left, family members celebrate PHS graduate Kailea Berke by displaying poster-sized childhood photos as she holds flowers and graduation gifts following the commencement ceremony last Friday. At right, Union Mine High School graduate Sophia Olvera, 18, of Placerville is covered with leis, balloons and bouquets presented by friends and family after the commencement ceremony on May 21.
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene
Photo by Laurie Edwards
Photo by Laurie Edwards Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene
Smiles and celebrations took over local high school athletic fields last week as El Dorado County’s graduates grabbed the diplomas. Above left, Wyatt Sharp receives his diploma from Union Mine
Principal Paul Neville. Above right, Cohen Lapierre, right, points toward teacher and baseball coach Greg Thompson, who shares a fist bump with Grady Lauer as seniors enter Simon-Bruin Stadium for the Ponderosa High School May 22 graduation ceremony.
Cougars no more — EDHS graduates, above left, sit on the El Dorado High School field one last time before getting their diplomas on May 21 and heading off to new adventures. Above right, Oak Ridge High School Valedictorian Brian Lin delivers the valedictory address as Principal Aaron Palm and El Dorado Union High School District Board President Brooke Van Komen listen, along with the rest of the Class of 2026.
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
ORHS graduate Joseph “JoJo” Rosendahl, above left, raises his fist in victory after receiving his diploma at the Trojans’ commencement ceremony on May 22. Above right, EDHS graduate Everet Perkins treats his classmates to a personally written musical tribute at last Thursday’s graduation.
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
Driver killed in Highway 50 collision
Shelly Thorene Staff writer
A driver died after a collision around 5 p.m. Saturday on Highway 50 near Sierra Ski Ranch Road according to officials with the California Highway Patrol – South Lake Tahoe Division.
A 33-year-old man from Sacramento driving a 2010 Honda Fit westbound caused a collision after making an unsafe turning movement into the path of a 2024 Chevy Tahoe traveling eastbound, the CHP report noted.
emphasized that contamination in recycling and organic waste remains a significant challenge. She shared an example involving clothing mistakenly mixed into organic waste, which damaged processing equipment.
“That contaminant wasn’t something that we were able to see, but the shredder didn’t like it,” she said. “So, it took our shredder down for a couple days, broke it. That’s why it’s so important that we get those materials out of the waste stream and that we educate, educate, educate.”
The company conducts outreach through social media, printed materials, customer calls and “lid flipping,” in which staff inspect cart contents and leave informational tags for customers when contamination is found.
“It’s actually a requirement of the state that we do those things,” VanDelinder said.
VanDelinder also reported that El Dorado Disposal met all of its required performance standards for 2026, including missed pickup response times, complaint resolution
Sergey Panasenko, 41 of North Highlands, the driver of the Chevrolet, was transported to Barton Hospital with moderate injuries and the driver of the Honda was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel. The name of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Any witnesses with information regarding the collision are asked to call Officer Renk at the South Lake Tahoe CHP Office at (530) 539-9500. The cause of the crash and sequence of events are still under investigation.
and reporting requirements.
The presentation also highlighted the city’s compost take-back program, which returned more than 500 tons of compost material to the community in 2025, exceeding program goals.
“I just put some in my garden last week,” VanDelinder said. “It’s wonderful stuff. It is certified organic.”
The company also recently launched a textile recycling program, placing collection bins at its buyback center and transfer station to divert clothing and fabrics from local landfills.
Looking ahead, VanDelinder said Waste Connections plans to expand school outreach efforts and continue preparing for implementation of Senate Bill 54, California’s plastic waste reduction law.
“We’re making sure that we’re at the forefront of working with the state,” she said, adding the goal is to have the necessary tools in place to be able to process more plastic “that right now is being put in the garbage.”
The council approved the rate increase without opposition following the public hearing.
Closure coming to Mosquito Road
News release
El Dorado County’s Department of Transportation will perform structure work, drainage work, materials deliveries, crane maintenance, road maintenance and bridge maintenance work on Mosquito Road from 0.6 miles north to 0.8 miles south of the Mosquito Road Bridge. The construction will require full closure of Mosquito Road at the gates beginning Saturday, May 30, and continuing through Friday, Aug. 7, while school is out of session.
A detour has been established via Rock Creek Road for which motorists should expect delays and allow extra time for travel.
The closure is necessary to ensure motorist and worker safety while the county’s contractor performs drainage system installations, structures concrete placements, materials deliveries and miscellaneous contract work for the project that is on or adjacent to Mosquito Road. The DOT Road Maintenance Crew will perform weekly inspections and pothole repairs on Mosquito Road throughout the summer closure and year. The DOT Bridge Crew will perform annual bridge maintenance work on the Mosquito Road Bridge while the roadway is closed.
All work by the county’s contractor, DOT Road Maintenance Crew and DOT Bridge Crew will be left in a condition that will accommodate emergency access at the end of each shift and on weekends in the event of an emergency or evacuation. The
exceptions will be during crane maintenance, and/or any structural member replacement, by the Bridge Crew that will keep the old Mosquito Bridge closed until the bridge is structurally safe to allow access.
The county will update emergency services in advance and daily if any work is needed that will prevent access. In the event of an evacuation, the project and bridge maintenance work will shut down to accommodate emergency services and public traffic.
During the full closure work, project activities adjacent to Mosquito Road will continue to require intermittent reversing traffic controls, flaggers, construction signs, changeable message boards and piloted semi-truck/trailer loads as needed. Various locations of Mosquito Road will utilize these traffic controls at various times and dates from Union Ridge Road to Rock Creek Road and may also include the dirt road access to Quintette Fire Station. Unless there is a public safety concern, traffic stops are intended to be 5-10 minutes maximum. Delays could be up to 20 minutes depending upon traffic of slow-moving equipment and wide loads. Traffic will be released as soon as there is safe travel through the work zones. The public should anticipate delays, drive the posted speed limits, stop for flaggers and anticipate slowdowns in work zones.
For questions regarding this closure, contact the DOT main line at (530) 621-5900 (select Option 3 for Engineering).
PLACERVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME LOG
The following information was taken from PPD reports:
May 10
4:10 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a hotel on Main Street.
4:14 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive.
9:38 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a park on Greenwing Lane.
May 11
5:08 a.m. Trespassing was reported at Golden Plaza on Placerville Drive.
2:47 p.m. Loitering was reported at a business on Main Street.
May 12
4:28 a.m. A noise disturbance was reported at a business on Big Cut Road. 9:59 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Fair Lane.
4:30 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Fair Lane.
4:52 p.m. A noise disturbance occurred on Hillside Court.
May 13
10:42 a.m. Battery was reported at a medical facility on Marshall Way.
12:28 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Ferndale Court.
7:11 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Broadway Drive.
May 14
9:38 a.m. Battery was reported at apartments on New Jersey Way.
Letter Continued from A4
community events by attending; she volunteers, stepping up to help wherever needed, including responding to an urgent call for tamale assembly to meet a deadline in 2024. She understands how important it is to preserve our historical landscape, protect our rural way of life and foster community connection and engagement. Future supervisors should note: your residents want to see what you are made of and how you are helping now. I don’t have to guess who I am voting for because I have seen her work in 100-degree heat handing
11:17 a.m. Loitering was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.
3:19 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Winesap Circle.
4:41 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.
4:42 p.m. Loitering was reported at a daycare on Placerville Drive.
7:51 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Mosquito Road.
8:01 p.m. Officers made an arrest after responding to a report of suspicious activity on Main Street.
May 15
2:45 p.m. Loitering was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive.
4:51 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a gas station on Forni Road.
May 16
12:40 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at apartments on Woodridge Court.
1:55 a.m. Trespassing was reported at an eatery on Fair Lane.
9:04 a.m. Loitering was reported at an eatery on Forni Road.
7:20 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Woodridge Court.
7:34 A noise disturbance was reported on Woodridge and Ridgecrest courts.
9:19 p.m. Trespassing was reported at an eatery on Fair Lane.
10:28 p.m. Narcotics were reported at a skate park on Armory Lane.
out community event flyers, watched her drastically lower project budgets and increase funding and witnessed the result of hundreds of hours of her time to do what’s necessary. Gina will bring the same dedication, leadership and compassion to serving our community in public office and already has a working plan for the promises she will keep to her district’s residents if elected.
I am proud to support Gina Posey for District 4 supervisor and strongly endorse her.
DESIREE JAMES Shingle Springs
Photo courtesy of CHP
Emergency crews work the scene of a fatal Highway 50 collision Saturday evening.
Randolph, also recent grads. But the Buccaneers took advantage of a few late game errors and secured a 25-19 win.
“So they’re used to ‘OK, we gotta reset,’” Curtis explained. “It’s just focusing on the first step, you know, just getting the serve receive pass or getting the serve over. And then once you get the first kill off that, it just seems to snowball. The third set we were a lot lot stronger.”
The Cougars fought back in the third with the home crowd loudly cheering behind them, thanks in part to the encouragement from assistant coach Tyler Lindsey. An ace serve from junior Andrew Canlas really got the fans fired up and the team used that as motivation when Balboa put up a fight and got within one following two timeouts. EDSH notched the 25-22 win with the fans on their feet.
“We’ve never had crowds at any of our games. It’s usually just the parents of the players. That’s it,” Curtis said of the Cougars’ enthusiastic fans. “To see them start coming out, especially after we won sections, for all the matches and especially this last one was incredible. It really does bring the community together, and it really does make us stronger as a team so I’m really grateful for them.”
The Buccaneers charged in the fourth, keeping the lead until a Maciel kill tied it up at 13-13. Hoyt took advantage of an opening and gave the Cougars a one-point lead. Another El
Dorado kill led to a Balboa timeout.
The break helped the Buccaneers regroup. They tied it up at 17 a piece and then went ahead before the Cougars tied it up at 20 and then jumped ahead with another Hoyt scorcher at the net. Balboa’s response forced an EDHS timeout but the subsequent plays went the Buccaneers’ way and they took the set 25-23.
“Baboa played really well in that fourth set. They really did; they kept the pressure on,” Curtis admitted.
“They were very strong ... and the libero on their team was just making some incredible digs .. off of really hard driven spikes from Cadence.”
The winner-take-all fifth set had the Blue Crew, parents and everyone else on their feet for a chunk of the game.
A Balboa miscommunication put the Cougars on the board and two plays later the crowd jumped up when a strong serve from Henry Metropulos made it 3-0. A Buccaneers kill brought the ball their way but a Hoyt kill sent it back to the home team. A Stevens kill netted a 5-1 lead. The Buccaneers had a few short rallies but El Dorado never let go and celebrated a 15-11 victory — and the matc h win.
Key to the victory, Curtis shared, was communication between the players.
“They’re always communicating with each other as to where they’re gonna be, what they’re planning on doing,” he said. “We spend a lot of time trying to get them to call out when there’s a tip or when there’s a touch on a block or
something like that.
“There’s several leaders who step up during the matches,” the coach continued. “Obviously, Cadence is, as a captain, a leader … just inspiring the rest of the players.”
After the game, players from both teams received medals and head coach Jim Curtis, along with assistant coaches Lindsey and Jessica Voelker, accepted the CIF plaque on behalf of their team.
Cougar game stats provided by MaxPreps note Hoyt led the team with 30 kills followed by Stevens with 15, Maciel with 12, Ashton Grover with four, Metropulos with three and Randolphs with one. The team totaled 65 kills compared to Balboa’s 44. On the service side Metropulos, Canlas, Austin Howser and Cameron Lewis had an ace each during the match. Maciel, Hoyt, Metropulos, Stevens, Howser, Lewis and Finn Hornsby had five blocks a piece followed by Ashton Grover with four, Ian Seckington with two and Randolph and Adrian Aguilar each had one.
The Cougars have a 28-9 overall record heading into the Division 4 championship.
Prior to the regional match, Curtis kept the pressure off his players. He and the team watched game videos and shared lunch. The players kicked around a hacky sack to relax before warming up. Curtis said preparation for the state championship will be similarly laid back.
“Honestly, we don’t really need to have practice because … toward the end of the season, practice doesn’t really buy you anything. It’s already in your muscle memory,” Curtis explained. “We’ll probably have a practice Thursday, and that would be the only one.”
The team is heading to Fresno Friday, getting a good night’s rest before Saturday’s final game.
“We’re higher ranked than Point Loma. Just looking at their team, I think … we’re a stronger team overall,” Curtis said. “That said, anything can happen.”
Win or lose, Curtis told the Mountain Democrat he’s proud of his players and the growth he has seen the past two years since becoming the boys varsity coach.
“The thing I’m really proud about … is just how they are on the court, how they are with the refs, how they are with the opponents,” the coach shared. “I have coaches coming up to me regularly. I have refs coming up to me saying, ‘This team is really just an incredible example of what young men should be like.’ They’re not overly bragging. They’re not attacking the other team and they’re very respectful of the coaches.
“They’ve just maintained that integrity that I think is so important,” he continued, “because volleyball is going to come and go, but they (should) hold onto that integrity throughout their life.”
EDHS Player of the Game Cadence Hoyt (9), left photo, goes up against two Balboa defenders during the Cougars’ CIF State Volleyball Regional Championship match against the Buccaneers Saturday evening. He had 30 kills in the 3-2 victory. At right, EDHS assistant coaches Jessica Voelker, left, and Tyler Lindsey, right, and head coach Jim Curtis celebrate by holding the CIF Northern Regional Championship plaque high in the air after the varsity Cougars’ 3-2 victory on the home court on May 23.
Mountain Democrat photos by Noel Stack
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NEWS, IN THE KNOW
May 27
Join American River Conservancy for Wednesday Workdays at Wakamatsu Farm at 8 a.m. For more information visit arconservancy.org.
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting at Frosty Peaks on Main Street in Placerville at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
Main Street Menagerie PRIDE Celebration with karaoke and drag show will take place 6-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
May 28
Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host the Caregiver and Person Living with Dementia Support Group, 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills.
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host a Monthly Mixer at Wakamatsu Farm 941 Cold Springs Road in Placerville at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
The Olde Coloma Theatre presents “Looters, Loopholes & Legacies” or “Under The Ground And Over The Top” through June 28. For tickets and more information, go to oldecolomatheatre.com.
May 29 Sierra Vista Winery will host Friday Night Flights, 4-8 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.
Jacam Manricks presents A Tribute To Bill Evans & Stan Getz at the So a in Sacramento at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
May 30
New Beginnings Gold Country will host the Walk for Redemption at 8 a.m. starting at 414 Main St. Placerville. Learn more at newbeginningsgoldcountry. org.
UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County will host Herbs, 9 a.m. to noon at Placerville Veterans Memorial Hall, 130 Placerville Drive. Join UC Master Gardeners of El Dorado County Jan Keahey and Ada Brehmer to explore herbs that grow well in our area, how to propagate and grow, and when to harvest. After the discussion, there will be a hands-on propagation demonstration, and you will be able to propagate some of these great herbs to take home with you. Register at tinyurl. com/4cajyn8p.
The Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park will host Intro to Improv for Real Life with Luminous Linda from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.
Sierra Vista Winery will host Sip, Play & Stay, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.
Art on Center, the Center for Native, Latino and Indigenous Art at 3182 Center St. in Placerville will host an Artist Reception for Internally Speaking with artist JaimEfrain BrisenOchoa from 6-8 p.m. To learn more email artoncenteredc@gmail.com.
The Sacramento Choral
Fairy tales and farce hit the stage in Folsom
Allen Schmeltz Sutter Street Theatre
FOLSOM — The summer season at Sutter Street Theatre o ers audiences a pair of classic stage productions, from a family-friendly fairy tale to a fast-paced Broadway musical comedy.
Now running through June 21, “Cinderella” brings the beloved fairy tale to life in an original adaptation by Laura Luke, who also directs the production. Performances are scheduled for Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m.
The show is rated G and geared toward family audiences.
The story follows Cinderella as she struggles under the care of her cruel stepmother and stepsisters before a magical encounter with her Fairy Godmother changes her life. The production promises humor, heart and a message about believing in the impossible.
Meanwhile, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” opens May 30 and runs through June 28. Directed by Kenny Brian Gagni, with musical direction by Hannah Hurst and choreography by Jeannie Larson, the Stephen Sondheim musical comedy will be presented Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 4:30 p.m. The production is rated PG-13 for mild adult themes.
Featuring a book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart and music and lyrics by Sondheim, the musical is based on the farcical comedies of ancient Roman playwright Plautus. The story centers on Pseudolus, a crafty slave who schemes to win freedom by helping his young master pursue the beautiful courtesan Philia.
Filled with mistaken identities, slamming doors and rapidfire comedy, the Tony Awardwinning musical has long been considered one of Broadway’s great farces.
Tickets and additional information are available through sutterstreettheatre.com.
Local students take home Grange scholarship
News release
The Gold Trail Grange awarded seven $1,500 scholarships this year to graduating seniors from El Dorado High School as part of the grange’s ongoing fundraising e orts to support local students pursuing higher education.
Recipients were selected for their academic performance while showing a commitment to community service.
Throughout the year, the grange hosts events and fundraisers to raise money for scholarships benefiting local graduating seniors. Organizers said community donations and contributions make the scholarship program possible.
“All year long the Gold Trail Grange holds events and fundraisers to raise money for
scholarships for local graduating high school seniors,” scholarship committee member Cece Walrond said.
“Those that we met at an evening pot luck held at the Grange were truly impressive.”
This year’s scholarship recipients were Olivia Beckett, who plans to attend University of California, Santa Barbara; Karen Baker, who will attend University of California, Davis; Violet Agosto, who also plans to attend University of California, Davis; Alan Alcantar, who will attend San Diego State University; Victoria Briseno, who plans to attend University of California, Santa Barbara; and
Maxine Kim, who will attend University of California San Diego. Also receiving a scholarship was Sergio Hernandez. Founded in 1931 in Coloma, the Gold Trail Grange has served for generations as a gathering place focused on community, agriculture, education and local heritage. Located near the site of California’s gold discovery, the Grange continues to bring residents together through volunteerism, civic engagement and community events. The grange hosts concerts, dances, fundraisers, educational programs and family events throughout the year, while supporting local scholarships and community programs. For more information visit goldtrailgrange. com.
Courtesy photos
Above left, Vici Herkomer and Hattie Smith and above right, Smith with Jacob Lambert are making dreams come true in “Cinderella.” Below, Lisa Gee, Jay Evans, Tanner Eddenfield, Robert Tanner-Hansen, Trinity Abbott, Stella Fluetsch, Ryan Reece, from left, are ready for some ancient Roman shenanigans at Sutter Street Theatre.
Courtesy photo
Olivia Beckett, Karen Baker, Violet Agosto, Alan Alcantar, Victoria Briseno and Maxine Kim, from left, all were awarded scholarships for their continued education.
Main Street Placerville to transform into a Disco Inferno
Downtown Placerville will turn back the clock June 13 as the annual Girls Night Out event brings a “Disco Inferno” theme to Main Street with shopping specials, live music and themed entertainment.
Hosted by the Placerville Merchants on Main and the Active 20/30 Club, the event is scheduled from 3-8 p.m. Saturday, June 13, and will feature 40 participating businesses o ering discounts, giveaways and activities throughout downtown.
Organizers are encouraging attendees to wear
1970s-inspired attire while visiting boutiques, restaurants and galleries along Main Street.
The historical Bell Tower will serve as the center of the festivities, with DJ Zephyr providing disco music during the evening. A public fashion show and “Best Dressed” contest also are planned.
“We are thrilled to bring the community together for a vibrant night that celebrates our local merchants,” said Alan Ming, president of Merchants on Main. “The ‘Disco Inferno’ theme adds an amazing, nostalgic energy to Main Street, making it a perfect night out for friends to shop, dance and support small businesses.”
The event is sponsored by Sacred Roots.
Attendees can purchase a “Disco Bling Purse” that includes promotional items and a coupon book valid at participating shops. Purses may be purchased online at givebutter.com/placervillegno or at several downtown businesses, including Ambiance, Robinson’s Pharmacy, heARTen soul and Kitchen Goods.
Placerville Merchants on Main is a downtown business organization focused on promoting and preserving the economic vitality of historical Placerville through events and collaborative marketing e orts.
For more information email placervillemerchants@gmail.com.
American River College opens new STEAM building
SACRAMENTO — American River College celebrated the grand opening and ribboncutting of its new STEAM Building at the Natomas Center on May 11, marking a major expansion of educational opportunities for students in the region.
The new 53,000-square-foot facility expands the Natomas Center campus and provides modern learning
spaces designed to support science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics instruction. College o cials said the building will allow the center to o er additional science laboratory classes and studio arts programs.
The ceremony featured remarks from college leaders, community partners and students, along with a land blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony.
American River College President
Dr. Lisa Cardoza welcomed attendees and highlighted the importance of the new facility in supporting student success and expanding access to higher education.
Raquel Williams, vice-chair of Wilton Rancheria, delivered a land blessing during the event. Additional remarks were given by Kelley Jacobsen, chief operating o cer of Yolo Federal Credit Union; Melissa Fish, dean of the Natomas Center and dual enrollment at American River College; a student representative from the college; and Jamey Nye, deputy chancellor of the Los Rios Community College District.
The new building is located at the American River College Natomas Center, 2421 Del Paso Road in Sacramento.
American River College serves approximately 30,000 students during the spring and fall semesters, making it one of the larger higher education institutions in California. The college said its mission focuses on creating inclusive and equitable educational opportunities for students and the surrounding community.
For more information about American River College visit arc. losrios.edu.
Barton Health expands service
NCLINE VILLAGE — Barton
IHealth is expanding access to specialty care in Incline Village with the addition of sports and physical medicine services at its multi-specialty clinic. Patients can receive care from Katie Gollotto and Eric Ewald who provide evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.
The expansion builds on Barton Health’s existing services in Incline Village, which include cardiology and plastic and reconstructive surgery, as part of an ongoing e ort to meet the health care needs of the Lake Tahoe community. Barton Health has cared for the Incline Village community through orthopedics and sports medicine for more than 15 years and continues to strengthen its delivery of care through its membership with Cleveland Clinic Connected.
as ours, having sports and physical medicine closer to home makes it easier for residents to get the expertlevel care they need.”
Gollotto is a board-certified sports medicine specialist and board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist with expertise in sports-related injuries, nonoperative fractures, arthritis management and regenerative medicine. She is also a pool physician for the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team and provides team medical coverage for the Tahoe Knight Monsters and Lake Tahoe Lakers.
Barton Sports & Physical Medicine o ers nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment for musculoskeletal pain and injuries. Specialists focus on restoring movement and function through advanced techniques, helping patients recover without surgery.
“Continuing to expand specialty services in Incline Village allows us to better serve the Lake Tahoe community with convenient access to high-quality care,” said Dr. Kandra Yee, Barton Health’s chief medical o cer. “In a community as active
Ewald is a board-certified physician who specializes in sports medicine and nonsurgical orthopedic treatment, including arthritis management, regenerative therapies and nonoperative fracture care. He also provides walk-in treatment for minor illnesses, infections and injuries for patients at Barton Urgent Care and Quick Care and provides team medical coverage for the Tahoe Knight Monsters.
The multi-specialty facility is located at 925 Tahoe Blvd., Suite 105, in Incline Village. To schedule an appointment with Barton Sports & Physical Medicine, call (775) 589-8915. Additional primary and specialty services are available through Barton Health at its Stateline campus, located 22 miles from Incline Village. For more information, visit BartonHealth.org.
Emerald Bay Shuttle returns
News release
STATELINE — With summer approaching, the Tahoe Transportation District, in partnership with transit provider Via, is bringing back the Emerald Bay Shuttle for a second expanded season.
Building on a successful 2025 pilot, the service will again provide visitors and residents a safe, a ordable way to reach one of Lake Tahoe’s most popular destinations while reducing tra c congestion and protecting the basin’s natural environment.
“The Emerald Bay Shuttle is a key step toward improving access while protecting one of Tahoe’s most visited destinations,” Jim Marino, executive director of the Tahoe Transportation District, said. “By providing an easy alternative to driving, we’re helping ease tra c, enhance safety and preserve the natural experience for everyone.”
The shuttle will operate daily from mid-June through Sept. 7 along two routes. Riders from the North and West shores can board at Sugar Pine Point Campground. South Shore riders can board at the South Tahoe Y Transit Center or Camp Richardson. Both routes serve the Eagle Falls Trailhead in Emerald Bay.
Weekend service will begin at 8 a.m., with weekday service starting at 9 a.m. All routes run until 5 p.m.
Parking enforcement will be in place throughout the shuttle season. TTD will install nearly 400 feet of temporary barriers to restrict illegal and unsafe roadside parking, and the California Highway Patrol will enforce
parking restrictions throughout the Emerald Bay corridor. During last year’s shuttle season, CHP issued 248 citations, 13 moving violations and had 10 vehicles towed for illegal parking.
Both routes connect with regional transit, expanding access to Lake Tahoe through car-free travel options. Riders can connect from the Stateline casino corridor and much of the South Shore via Tahoe Transportation District Bus Route 50 at the South Tahoe Y Transit Center. On the West Shore, the Tahoe Truckee Area Regional Transit Mainline and TART Connect microtransit service connect at Sugar Pine Point Campground.
Cycling or using a shared e-scooter on the South Shore is also encouraged for reaching shuttle stops and transit connections. Reservations will be available at Emerald Bay Shuttle. Walk-up seating may be available depending on capacity.
The Emerald Bay Shuttle is supported by a project team that includes transportation planners, local government o cials and agencies including Keep Tahoe Blue, Tahoe Fund, El Dorado County, Caltrans, California Highway Patrol, California State Parks, Placer County, Tahoe Transportation District, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, City of South Lake Tahoe, Sierra State Parks Foundation, South Shore Transportation Management Association and the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority.
For more information visit TahoeTransportation.org.
News release
A magic carpet ride through one of America’s leading small winery regions
This past month, 20 of the El Dorado and Fairplay American Viticulture Area wineries threw open their doors to the public and treated them to a sumptuous feast of their best and sometimes rarest achievements in wine making. If it occurs to you that this might be a “second gold rush,” you’d be right on the money.
Passport Weekend is a passionate experience and an unforgettable education that has served this county for more than 30 years. It has been said that the more you know about wine, the better it tastes. What that means is with the proper introduction, your senses open in a new way to embrace the craft and complexity of all that wine has to offer. And it offers a lot. You can’t get this by just grabbing a bottle off a supermarket shelf; winery visits are essential to achieve enlightened guidance to exciting new wine experiences.
The attendees came from many different walks of life. The parking lots were filled with cars from every income bracket, including one tweedwearing fellow in a Stutz Bearcat. While attendees were mostly local, there were some on a pilgrimage from farther away, including Tokyo and Paris. Many participating wineries were pleasantly surprised at how many 25-55 to 55 year olds, showed up — a closely watched demographic. It was striking to see how easily wine brought everyone together. There were no strangers, only new friends. For over eight thousand years wine has been a pillar of culture, community, lifestyle and generations. It is peace in a glass, and it connects us on a level deeper than our everyday lives reach into.
Lexi Boeger, general manager of Boeger Winery, one of the oldest wineries in the appellation, understands this well.
“Wine is a social medicine in a way,” Boeger said. “It has a connection to language and communication and has always had this
place in human culture.”
These days, wine is an antidote for our distracted daily lives where social media disrupts our focus to divert our attention.
The Passport Weekend provided a buffer zone of “just being there” where conversations flow as easily as water down the American River.
The alchemy of the perfect pairing
Many wine lovers are familiar with the concept of food pairing, but when was the last time you were truly surprised by it? Passport Weekend provided a master class in pairing wine and food for an amazing transformation of both. Wine plus science equals art. Jim Czachorowski, owner of Sierra Vista Vineyards and Winery, one of the earliest vineyards in El Dorado County, paired the very limited Tiger Lilly Outlaw (syrah, grenache, mourvèdre) with a mini tostada loaded with hatch chili, jack cheese, carne asada, crema and fresh chimichurri. He also brought out a white wine made with a rare grape that originated in France’s Rhône Valley: Picpoul Blanc. This was paired with chilled lemongrass shrimp, savory yuzu slaw and Thai basil.
“Wine’s number one job is to bring us together” — Aldo Sohm, sommelier
Narrow Gate Winery co-owner Teena Hildebrand exercised her long-earned gourmet chef skills, offering two food plates to accompany selected wines including a robust Cab Syrah Estate blend. One was the Passport Panini of smoked pork tenderloin, Havarti cheese, caramelized red onions with rosemary, sage aioli on organic sourdough. Another
plate was loaded with orzo pasta, kalamata olive, feta cheese, arugula, red onion, lemon and extra virgin olive oil.
Mariam Karuga is the culinary mastermind behind Kenyan-heritage inspired Mellowood Vineyard in Fair Play. She expressed homeland roots with servings of kachumbari, a Kenyan style salad, and grilled tri-tip and pork ribs cooked with exotic east African spices.
Madroña Vineyards in Camino paired its signature malbec with mini wagyu sliders and its late harvest zinfandel with Lindt dark chocolate.
There are many ways to pair wine and food and when it is done well the results are unforgettable. It is consumable magic. The right pairing is a sudden emotional surprise and Passport Weekend delivers it right to your table.
The restorative soul of foothill wineries
Local wineries are an important part of the community. Big skies, rolling vineyard contours, the relaxing rhythm of nature — foothill wineries are like outposts on the edge of creation. We are lucky to live so close to so much. The barnwood porches and patios feel like launchpads over the vineyards. Relaxed and surrounded by vibrant nature, you can feel in the wine a song of the earth. It pairs well with the heart.
Local winemakers work hard to bring an experience that matters. In vino veritas — in wine, there is truth. Whether you are sitting outside, or deep in a wine cave tasting rare private stock or limited releases sampled directly from oak barrels, you’ve released yourself from the everyday grind. The world relaxes. You’ve learned a little something more about happiness.
“You become present enough to truly experience life and your creative ideas can arise,” said Boeger.
Peter Mead was an award-winning strategic copywriter in Los Angeles for decades. When he moved to El Dorado County four years ago with his two cats, he fell in love with the foothill wine culture. He continues on a journey of wine discovery in the region. He can be reached at blowingsky@gmail.com.
Peter Mead Mountain Democrat contributor
Photo by Peter Mead
Sierra Vista Vineyards and Winery has vines in full sprout this spring.
Traci Rockefeller Cusack
News release
AMESTOWN —
JIn partnership with the California State Railroad Museum Foundation, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown is encouraging families to plan a memorable “Day of the Dad” excursion train ride behind the famous Sierra No. 3 on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21.
The experience for dads includes a locally crafted beer or nonalcoholic drink in a commemorative glass, provided by Bear Tent Brewing Co., and a salty treat to be enjoyed on the passenger deck before departure. Dads 21 and older who choose to enjoy a craft brew must show identification at the ticket window when checking in for a wristband. All drinks
Society alongside Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera present Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 at the SAFE Credit Union
Performing Arts Center on at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. For more information visit sacphilopera.org.
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” through June 28. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
Scott M. Thomas Production presents You Should Be Dancing A Tribute to the Bee Gees at 7:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.
The Sacramento Ballet presents Beer and Ballet, Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the So a in Sacramento For more information visit sacballet.org.
The So a in Sacramento presents Misner and Smith at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.
May 31
Ed Wilson will perform at Iron Hub Winery in Plymouth from 1-4 p.m.
June 1
The Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park will host a Teen Theater Workshop for ages 13-17 through June 24. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.
Now 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. com.
Registration is now open for Gold Discovery Park Association’s
must be consumed before boarding the train, and alcoholic beverages cannot be taken o the deck. A treat in itself, the worldfamous “Movie Star Locomotive” will pull the special trains with departures at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 and 3 p.m.
Especially perfect for holiday weekends, excursion train ride guests will enjoy a relaxing six-mile, 45-minute roundtrip ride on the Sierra Railway through the picturesque Mother Lode countryside. In addition to the train ride, visitors are encouraged to plan a full day at the park to tour the historical roundhouse and shops, enjoy a family picnic or stroll the grounds. With spring and summer hours in e ect, the park will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30
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
p.m. for self-guided or docent-led tours, along with exhibits featuring interpretive signage.
Visitors are encouraged to purchase weekend excursion train ride tickets, including the special “Day of the Dad” experience, online in advance. If available on the day of the ride, tickets may be purchased at the Depot Store on a firstcome, first-served basis. Member presales began May 25, and public sales open May 28. More information and advance excursion train ride tickets are available at railtown1897.org. For more information about Railtown 1897’s events and activities call (209) 983-3953. For more information about the California State Railroad Museum Foundation visit californiarailroad. museum.
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.
SACRAMENTO — As California continues celebrating 175 years of statehood, California State Parks and its partners will host more than 170 events during the fifth annual California State Parks Week from June 10-14.
Hosted by State Parks along with California State Parks Foundation, Parks California and Save the Redwoods League, this year’s weeklong celebration carries the tagline “This is Where You Live” and features 171 events statewide.
The festivities, all o ered at no additional cost, make it easier than ever to reconnect with nature or try a new activity, whether at a favorite state park or while exploring someplace new. Reservations are highly encouraged and are now open at CAStateParksWeek.org, which o ers a full list of
events, participation details and information on this year’s student poster contest, now expanded to include transitional kindergarten.
The fifth annual celebration includes five spotlight events over five days highlighting the diversity of California’s state parks — from pristine coastlines and wildlife habitats to towering redwood forests and alpine lakes.
Wednesday, June 10 — Cardiff State Beach
“Explore the Shore,” 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Visitors can explore the sights, sounds and scents of the ocean during the kicko event at Cardi State Beach near San Diego through hands-on activities focused on the coastline.
Participants can join expert-led demonstrations or use self-guided kits to learn more about plants, animals, water and rocks. All ages are welcome, though children younger than 16 must be supervised by an adult.
Thursday, June 11 — Great Valley Grasslands State Park
State Parks and its partners will celebrate completion of the Grasslands Floodplain Restoration Project, which reconnected the San Joaquin River with more than 200 acres of historical floodplain in the Central Valley.
The event will highlight how the project supports habitat for threatened and endangered species, including salmon, kit foxes and migratory birds along the Pacific Flyway. Activities include remarks from project partners, guided tours, interpretive programs and on-the-water experiences.
Friday, June 12 — Big Basin Redwoods State Park
“Resilient Redwoods Rendezvous,” guided tours at 1 and 2 p.m.
Visitors can learn about the resilience of California’s iconic redwoods during guided walks through Big Basin, where most old-growth trees
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 Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Botanical Brushstrokes through July 19. For more information visit edhtowncenter. 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.
Explore Boeger Winery’s history on the “Stories in the Cellar Guided Tour,” a walking tour through historic sites and cellar spaces at Boeger Winery in Placerville, followed by a seated wine tasting with small bites in the historic cellar. The tours are o ered Friday through Sunday at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., require reservations, and are limited to a group size of ve. For
survived the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire on the Santa Cruz Coast.
The event also will highlight forest recovery e orts and the park’s ongoing reimagining process. Guests can connect with partner organizations during an on-site fair and learn how to get involved in the park’s future.
Saturday, June 13 — Sue-meg State Park
“Visitor Center Grand Reopening,” 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The reopening of the Sue-meg State Park Visitor Center on California’s North Coast will feature community activities, food, cultural sharing and hands-on learning.
Activities include guided cultural walks, Junior Ranger programs and interactive exhibits developed in partnership with the Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People, Trinidad Rancheria and the Yurok Tribe.
Sunday, June 14 — Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park
“The Mercury Turns 100,” 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The event celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Mercury speedboat, one of Lake Tahoe’s most iconic historical vessels.
Built in 1926 and once considered the fastest speedboat in the world, the 35-foot all-metal vessel earned the President’s Cup from President Calvin Coolidge. Visitors can view the Mercury up close and participate in interpretive programs and hands-on activities, including the unveiling of a new interpretive panel focused on maritime history, technological innovation and cultural resource stewardship.
Launched in 2022 and growing in popularity each year, California State Parks Week advances the “Outdoor Access for All” initiative championed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and the California Natural Resources Agency’s “Outdoors for All” initiative.
In partnership with governments, community organizations and tribes, California continues expanding parks and outdoor spaces in underserved communities while supporting programs that connect more people with the outdoors.
more information and to make reservations, visit boegerwinery. com.
Cantiga Wineworks, 5980 Meyers Land in Somerset, is having Happy Hour with Fritz on Fridays from 3-6 p.m. Come for the wine, stay for the games, conversation and community. For more information call (530) 621-1696.
Mira ores Winery, 2120 Four Springs Trail in Placerville, is having Sparkling Sundays, the one day of the week where two fabulous sparklers are poured.
Try a complimentary tasting of Blanc de Noirs and Brut. Both are crafted with organically grown grapes from Sonoma County and created in the traditional Methode Champenoise style. Call (530) 647-8505 or email info@ mira oreswinery.com for more information.
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.
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.
interaction, second Fridays at 11 a.m.; and Highly Descriptive Tours, 50-minute tours with detailed verbal descriptions and guided discussion for blind or low-vision individuals and their guests, fourth Fridays at 1 p.m. For more information visit crockerart.org.
California Railroad Museum will present All Aboard for Story Time every Monday at 11 a.m. This program is included with Museum admission. For more information visit californiarailroad.museum.
The Mills Station Arts and Culture Center in Rancho Cordova hosts Live Model Drawing classes every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. For more information visit rcmacc.org.
The Master Gardener public o ce is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon at 311 Fair Lane, Placerville. Have a gardening question or problem? Come in and chat, bring a cutting or insect in a baggie or a picture. Can’t come in person? Call (530) 6215512 and leave a voicemail or email mgeldorado@ucanr.edu.
The Mom Walk, Sip and Stroll meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the El Dorado Hills Town Center amphitheater. It’s a great way to get active with other local moms.
Marco’s Café in Lotus hosts a family friendly Open Mic Night Thursdays from 6-8:30 p.m. For more information visit marcoscafelotus.com.
Folsom History Museum presents Ride ‘Em Cowboy – the Folsom Rodeo Exhibition through Jan. 4, 2027. Learn more at folsomhistory.org.
UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County host a free Sherwood Demonstration Garden Public Tour on the rst Saturday of each month, starting at 9 a.m. After the approximately one-hour tour, wander
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Rebels with La Causa — Royal Chicano Air Force Art and Activism, 1970–1990 through June 28; and Pueblo Pottery –Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030; For more information visit crockerart.org.
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento hosts Art Rx, Docent led discussions for those with chronic pain and their friends, family and caregivers, second and fourth Saturdays at 11 a.m.; Meet Me at the Museum: tours designed for visitors with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, using art observation and conversation to foster engagement and social
