Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, May 28, 2025

County corrects fee calculation error

Jo Carrerow Mountain Democrat correspondent

A plus sign inadvertently hit instead of a minus when calculating projected El Dorado County growth through the year 2045 resulted in Tra c Impact Fees miscalculations during El Dorado County Department of Transportation’s recent major update of the fee and the capital improvement program

At the May 20 county Board of Supervisors meeting Senior Civil Engineer Zach Oates and other DOT sta presented the facts and a fix.

The error occurred in an analysis done in August and September 2023.

“So it was a while ago and that involved updating the county’s assumed growth rates and perhaps more importantly where we projected that that growth is going to occur,” Oates said. Oates, who discovered the error, explained that in updating the department’s numbers from 2018 to 2023, “We take a look at the prior baseline number, how many available units we have to develop where we can charge a fee, we subtract out the number of units that were constructed using building permit data and then we add back in the number of projects or units or parcels that have been approved via new parcel maps, zoning changes, General Plan amendments, those sorts of things.

“The error occurred where instead of adding

CONGRATS, GRADUATES

Terrorism (Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria) stood as the story of a lost comrade from their war was read. Many tears were shed at the standing room only event in Placerville.

WWII veteran Sal Gigante, U.S.

“In every hour of peril and every moment of crisis, American warriors have left behind the blessings of home and family to answer their nation’s call. They’ve offered all that they had within them and given their last breaths to each and every one of us — that we might live safe and breathe free.”

— President Donald J. Trump

Photos by John Poimiroo

Above, veterans salute during the wreath laying ceremony at the Memorial Day commemoration event held at the El Dorado County Veterans Monument on May 26. Right, Veterans who served in wars and conflicts from World War II to today were individually recognized at the ceremony. Seen standing is Chief Petty Officer Bill Schultz, U.S. Navy (ret.), a Korean and Vietnam war veteran, alongside disabled

Army (ret.).

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

El Dorado High School Class of 2025 graduates joyfully toss their caps in the air after the ceremony on May 22 in Placerville. Union Mine, Oak Ridge and Ponderosa also celebrated graduation last week. See more photos on page A9.

ee ERROR, page A5

ESSENTIALS

Nina Louise Todd

Sept. 19, 1942 – March 29, 2025

Lonnie Ray Todd

Jan. 10, 1938 – April 7, 2025

Nina and Lonnie, two of the most beautiful, unselfish and generous people, peacefully passed nine days apart. Lonnie worked for the Placerville Parks Dept. until his retirement. Nina worked various jobs but her favorite was taking care of her grandkids. They loved to camp, fish and spend time with friends and family. There will be a Celebration of Life on June 14, 2025 at 11:00 am at Diamond Springs Firefighters Memorial Hall, 501 Pleasant Valley Road, Diamond Springs, CA 95619.

Francis Merritt

Carpenter

June 7, 1929 – April 29, 2025

Francis Merritt Carpenter, known to many as “Carp,” passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the age of 95. He was born on June 7, 1929, in Placerville and spent his entire life in Rescue, California where his family originally settled in 1852 and where many still live today.

Carp went to Tennessee Grammar School in Rescue and graduated from El Dorado High School in 1947. Prior to joining the U.S. Army in 1948, he worked for two years for the California Department of Forestry as a firefighter at the CDF Station in El Dorado. Between 1948 and 1951, he saw active combat in the Korean War where he received the Korean Service Medal with 5 bronze service stars. After returning home in 1951, Carp worked construction in Placerville, helping to build many of the Highway 50 overpasses you see today. He also worked at the Hangtown Tire Shop on Placerville Drive. In spite of these forays into other work, however, Carp’s heart was always in fire suppression, so in 1965, he went back to the work he loved most, this time serving the California Department of Forestry as an Engineer at the Garden Valley Station. He also worked as a Fire Captain at Mount Zion and Dew Drop Stations in Amador County before becoming a Fire Captain at the Pilot Hill CDF Station where he retired in 1982.

But that’s not all! At the same time that Carp was working for CDF, during his “o ” time, he was a driving force in starting and developing the Rescue Volunteer Fire Department where he served as Volunteer Fire Chief from 1964 to 1965 and then, again, from 1975 to 1993. In 1977 Carp was instrumental in building the Rescue Fire Station #1 as it sits today and, after retiring from CDF, he went to work as the first paid Fire Chief of the Rescue Fire Protection District. In 1988 with the gift of property from the Webster family, Rescue Fire Station #2 was built on Lotus Road. Carp retired as the Chief of the Rescue Fire Protection District in 1993 and then served on the Rescue Fire District Board of Directors for several years.

Carp had a lifelong passion for Rescue and the community, taking great pride in its history. For many years, he was very involved with the Rescue Historical Society where he served as President, Historian. Over the years, many knew him as “Mr. Rescue.” In 2011, he and a close friend, Bill Teie, wrote a local history book together, calling it, History of a Place Called Rescue. The book was published in November of 2011. Carp took great pride in this endeavor; throughout his adult life he wanted to preserve the history of Rescue and worked tirelessly to amass a collection of thousands of pictures, notes, articles and stories. When it came to Rescue’s history, he always said that he had the facts but lacked the writing ability to pull a book together. Many times, he expressed how grateful he was to Bill Teie for making this dream become a reality. Carp dedicated his life to the Fire Department and to preserving the history of Rescue, California.

Carp was married to Susan Joy West in 1955 and was by her side until her death in 2022. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Alan Moore and is survived by his daughter, Terilyn J. Moore, his son, William M. Carpenter, his daughter-in-law, Becky Carpenter, his four grandchildren, Melanie Peterson, Lindsay Moore, Kristopher Carpenter and Kassandra Duran, and his five great-grandchildren, Eric and Sean Peterson, Gabriella and Amilia Duran, and Mina Carpenter.

Carp’s and Joy’s wishes were to have their Celebration of Life and their burial held together. In honor of those wishes the family will be celebrating the lives of this amazing couple on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Rescue Fire Department Station #1, located at 5221 Deer Valley Road, Rescue, California, 95672. The Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM with a reception immediately after. Following the reception, Carp’s and Joy’s remains will be interned together at Jay Hawk Cemetery, located on Deer Valley Road in Rescue, California. For planning purposes, the family ask that, if possible, please RSVP by no later than June 13, 2025. Call or text Bill Carpenter at 916-214-4933 or Terilyn Moore at 210-381-9382 if you plan to attend.

Barbara Ann Raines

Jan. 28, 1942 – April 2, 2025

In Loving Memory of Barbara Raines

Barbara Ann Raines, age 83, of Placerville, California, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, surrounded by the warmth of the community she deeply cherished.

A lifelong advocate for education, civic engagement, and Native American culture, Barbara served as an Assistant Professor at Folsom Lake College, where she inspired generations of students with her wisdom, compassion, and unique teaching style. Her passion for books and knowledge extended beyond the classroom. As a dedicated member of Friends of the Library, she championed literacy and lifelong learning for all ages.

Barbara’s commitment to her community was evident in every aspect of her life. As a Placerville City Planning Commissioner, she approached every challenge with thoughtfulness and integrity, helping to shape a city that reflected her values of sustainability, inclusion, and forward-thinking. Whether attending council meetings, volunteering at local events, or supporting neighborhood initiatives, Barbara led with heart and purpose.

She was a dedicated mother, a trusted friend, and a tireless community supporter. Her kindness touched many, and her unique personality and quiet strength served as a guiding light to all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Roger Raines, with whom she shared a life of deep love and mutual respect.

Barbara’s legacy is one of service, scholarship, and compassion. She will be remembered not only for the countless contributions she made to her community but for the warmth, wit, and energy she brought into every room.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Saturday, May 31st, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the El Dorado Community Center 6699 Campus Dr, Placerville, CA 95667. All who knew and loved Barbara are welcome to attend. Kindly RSVP to judvzulf@ gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Friends of the Library - El Dorado County or a local educational fund in her memory. Barbara Raines leaves behind a community that is better because she was in it, and those she loved are forever grateful for her kindness and generosity.

Bruce Maclin

March 16, 1942 – March 22, 2025

Bruce Maclin, 83, was born in Woodland, California. His family lived in Placerville most of his life and he was educated in schools there from elementary grades through high school. Upon graduation from El Dorado High School in 1960 he attended U.C. Berkeley, graduating in 1964 with a history major. He entered Boalt Hall Law School at Berkeley and cruised through Boalt graduating in 1967. He moved to Bakersfield in 1967, beginning his professional career with Darling & Hugie Law O ces.

Bruce married his wife Laurie Darling Maclin in 1970. He had a career in Bakersfield business and law for over 40 years. He organized San Joaquin Bank in 1979, becoming Chairman of the Board in 1980, retiring in 2008.

Bruce’s family came to Placerville during the Gold Rush and began beverage businesses in both Placerville and Folsom during the 1840s. Throughout his life, he was devoted to the history and memorabilia of the Gold Rush and of 19th Century Placerville California. Most of his lifelong pursuits centered around areas of intellectual interest: collecting rare books, (especially historically significant books on Placerville and the Gold Country.) He collected “California Scene” art as well as antiques with his wife, Laurie, and played very high level bridge several times a week. He received a great bridge honor recently by becoming a “Diamond Life Master” with the American Contract Bridge League. His eventful life included lots of travel and many visits with longtime friends. Bruce was very entertaining and as a raconteur he had a great sense of timing and dry wit. He could tell true stories of friends and events in an engaging, dramatic way that often ended with some surprising humorous punch line.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Laurie, his three nephews: Scott Ballman, wife, Cyndi, Eric Ballman, Bret Ballman, wife, Victoria, and Brothersin-Law: Todd Darling, wife, Linda, niece Lauren, nephew, Erin, and Jim Darling, wife, Nona, nieces Danielle, Alexandra, and Grey.

The interment will be May 31, 2025 at 11 A.M. in the Placerville Union Cemetery in his family’s ancestral plot. Donations can be sent in lieu of flowers to the Bakersfield Museum of Art or to the Placerville Historical Society.

Connie John Bozarth

Oct. 18, 1938 – Feb. 19, 2025

The following information was taken from EDSO reports:

NOTE: Due to changes made by the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce to its online records, the reported age and gender of arrested people is no longer available.

May 1

9:51 a.m. Burglary was reported on Mile Stone Road at Echo Lake.

9:55 a.m. Battery was reported at a grocery store on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines.

9:57 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Cedar Drive in Camino.

10:02 a.m. Battery was reported at the county jail on Forni Road in Placerville.

10:25 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Starbuck Road in Rescue.

12:38 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Weymouth Way in Rescue.

1:34 p.m. Battery was reported at a school on Golden Foothill Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

4:03 p.m. Burglary to a vehicle was reported on Wagon View Trail in Diamond Springs.

4:59 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a mobile home park on Patterson Drive in Diamond Springs.

6:13 p.m. Trespassing occurred on Faith Lane in Diamond Springs.

7:03 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Rebel Ridge Lane in Placerville.

7:22 p.m. Battery was reported on Oval Beckett Court in Placerville.

7:55 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Donatella Court in El Dorado Hills.

9:30 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Powers Drive in El Dorado Hills.

9:58 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a gas station on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

11:25 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Lancelot Court in Cameron Park.

May 2

9:07 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Pesaro Drive in El Dorado Hills.

12:07 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a bowling alley on Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines.

12:29 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Lancelot Court in Cameron Park.

5:04 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Jasper Road in Rescue.

5:27 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a store on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

5:36 p.m. Battery was reported at Wentworth Springs Road/Miled Lane in Georgetown.

7:52 p.m. Trespassing was reported at an apartment complex on Valley View Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

10:06 p.m. Battery was reported at a grocery store on Post Street in El Dorado Hills.

May 3

8:26 a.m. Battery was reported on Green Valley Road in Rescue.

9:20 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of evading a peace o cer, possessing and transporting narcotics and unlawful paraphernalia on Highway 50 in Shingle Springs. They were listed in custody in lieu of $75,000 bail.

1:12 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Bass Lake Road in El Dorado Hills.

2:09 p.m. Battery was reported at the county jail on Forni Road in Placerville.

3:39 p.m. Battery was reported on Giles Way in El Dorado Hills.

4:17 p.m. Battery was reported at the casino on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville.

7:26 p.m. Battery was reported at

a grocery store on Post Street in El Dorado Hills.

10:18 p.m. Prowler was reported on Trevi Way in El Dorado Hills.

May 4

3:05 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of DUI, possessing controlled substances and unlawful paraphernalia with two or more priors and unauthorized entry of a dwelling on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines. They were listed in custody in lieu of a $4,000 bail.

8:52 a.m. Vandalism was reported at Pesaro Drive in El Dorado Hills.

11:09 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Hampton Lane in Cameron Park.

12:03

9:03

2:52

3:06

4:03

8:29

Connie Bozarth, 86, of El Dorado County, passed away on February 19, 2025. Born on October 18, 1938, Connie was a lifelong member of the community and a respected figure in the local logging industry. He began working in the woods in the 1950s and went on to establish Bozarth Logging in the 1970s after acquiring the business from his father and two uncles, maintaining operations until the late 1990s. He was preceded in death by his wives, Audrey and Janice Bozarth; his brothers Byron and Clyde; his son, Barry Bozarth; and grandson, Matt Bauer. Connie is survived by his sisters Mary Wells and Linda Hendrix; son Mike Bozarth and daughter Debbie Bauer; his eight grandchildren; as well as many great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held June 1st, 2025 at the American Legion Hall 4561 Greenstone Road, Placerville at 1pm.

SUSAN JOY WEST

Divide couple earns Senior of the Year title

Georgetown.

Kris and Ken Presba received the El Dorado County Senior of the Year award presented by the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors on May 20. Thanks to Tracy Wilson for recognizing and nominating these two very deserving volunteers.

The Presbas have a passion for the history of the area. A few years ago they, along with a small group, established the Georgetown Preservation Society. Through that they have donated a significant amount of money to many worthwhile groups with historical causes such as restoring buildings on the Divide. They have worked with VFW Post 9241 donating funds for preservation and restoration of the VFW Memorial Park, the VFW Hall and the Canteen. They have also worked with the VFW to assist in maintenance of the park. They have partnered with the Georgetown Divide Rotary Club and the Native Sons of the Golden West, directing donations for various projects at the IOOF Hall in

The society also donated to the Kelsey Community Association to aid in the restoration of the Old Kelsey Schoolhouse in Garden Valley. The statue of General Sutter was donated by the society, and the restoration of the old Catholic Church in Bu alo Hill was one of its projects. The Society also created a museum located in Main Street Mercantile in Georgetown. The funds are generated by fundraisers — 100% of which goes back into the community. On Georgetown’s annual Founders Day visitors might see the Presbas at the society’s booth where community members can learn about the historical significance of the Divide, for example the mines around town. Community members can also inquire about the history of their own properties and Ken or Kris will research the history for those property owners at no cost.

Other Senior of the Year nominees recognized last week were Marilyn Allen, Marianne Cann and LeRae La Rosa.

SURPRISE DELIVERY

photo

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

Seniors of the Year Kris and Ken Presba receive an award for their volunteer work with the Georgetown Preservation Society, Georgetown Rotary Club, assisting with the annual Georgetown Founders Day, the Santa Program and collaborating with the Native Sons of the Golden West.

Kat Mendenhall Staff writer

Counting reps and building bonds

Morning routine brings fellowship to Placerville men

Chris Woodard Staff writer

Esame formula: they are free, open to all men, held outdoors rain or shine and peer-led in a rotating fashion.

very weekday, scattered across various locations surrounding Placerville, you may hear the faint echoing of men counting in unison or the shuffling of their steps during a 45-minute window as the sun rises.

Like the workout locations, the coffee also varies by day, like the Greenhouse Cafe, which opened its doors an hour early to allow the 18 men to stop by and get coffee the day the Mountain Democrat joined them.

To the uninitiated, these 45 minutes may seem never-ending, but to the men who have committed, it has become a spark plug to their everyday growth.

F3 Motherlode is the local chapter of F3 Nation, which was created to “plant, grow and serve small workout groups for men for the invigoration of male community leadership,” according to its website. The three Fs stand for Fitness, Fellowship and Faith; they define the last as “simply a belief in something bigger than yourself.”

Along with silly names for each workout, the men will assign all newcomers a nickname after completing their first workout, which quickly introduces men to the fellowship aspect of the group’s environment.

“F3 filled a hole that I didn’t know I had,” said Derek Anderson, also known as Moped. “I was doing things that made me happy, but I was alone.”

F3 Nation follows the motto, “Leave no man behind, but leave no man where you found him.” All of the veterans of F3 Motherlode who spoke with the Mountain Democrat agreed; the glue that keeps them coming back is the second F, fellowship, and the upholding of that motto.

“There’s more that happens than just 45 minutes of sweating in a parking lot,” Anderson said. “You get a sense of community, a sense of belonging.”

F3 Motherlode works out at locations like Folsom Lake College’s El Dorado Center or the Veterans Monument at the El Dorado County Government Center, amongst others, and recently split from F3 South Fork to provide more workout opportunities within the radius of Placerville and create a tighter-knit group, said Dave Ross also known as Slumlord.

The F3 Motherlode workout sessions are held every day at 5:15 a.m. sharp and end at 6 a.m. followed by a small hangout to get coffee and chat until about 7 a.m. Every workout follows the

“Maybe the most important thing, like sports, is that we encourage others to ‘pick up the six.’ I didn’t realize how important that was,” Ross said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re all the way in the back, everyone’s gonna come back, pick you up and bring you to the front, n See F3 MOTHERLODE, page A5

TAHOMA — El Dorado County, Placer County and NCE, a local engineering firm, have scheduled a community meeting for Wednesday, May 28, to discuss improvements to the Rubicon Trail staging area in Tahoma.

The Rubicon Trail is a highly valued off-highway vehicle recreational trail that passes through both El Dorado and Placer counties. It is located on land managed by Eldorado National Forest, Tahoe National Forest, Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and includes private properties.

The Rubicon Trail has three major trailheads. El Dorado County maintains the Loon Lake and Wentworth Springs trailheads, while the Tahoma staging area is within Placer County.

35,140 square feet of new pavement. Following the expansion, shoulder parking would be prohibited to reduce the spillover.

“These trailhead improvements not only contribute to better recreational access, they help mitigate soil erosion and parking overflow as well,” Placer County’s Tahoe Engineering Manager Seth Warren said. “This trailhead is one of several being improved in the county over the next few years, including the Lower Sawtooth and Ward Creek trailheads.”

The project may also include a natural surface trail, parallel to the roadway, to provide alternative pedestrian access from the nearby Tahoma neighborhood, provided there is enough public interest.

Members of the public can provide their input on the project by:

“Currently, when the parking lot is full at the Tahoma staging area, parking will spill along the access road, which can lead to overcrowding and resource damage to the adjacent lands,” NCE associate scientist David Rios said. “Overflow parking further encroaches into nearby residential areas when the lot and road are full, so this project is designed to prevent those issues and help us create an experience we can all enjoy.”

The Rubicon Trail Parking Lot Expansion project aims to improve safety, reduce neighborhood impacts and enhance access to this popular destination.

The project is slated to include 32-34 additional trailer parking spaces at the Tahoma staging area on the Lake Tahoe Basin side of the trail by adding

Attending the public meeting on May 28 at Granlibakken Resort, 725 Granlibakken Road, Tahoe City. The meeting will take place 5-7 p.m. Take an online survey about the project at survey123.arcgis.com/share/ 4721cafa9a304f68b41ca215fcaf89cc. Call the El Dorado County Parks & Trails Division at (530) 621-5360 and leave input with staff.

The NCE project team will complete technical studies to evaluate the environmental effects of the proposed project and those studies will be made available for public review. A second public meeting will be held to solicit feedback on the project and potential environmental effects at a later date. Learn more by visiting El Dorado County’s website at eldoradocounty. ca.gov/Land-Use/Parks- Trails/ Rubicon-Trail.

Mountain Democrat photo by Chris Woodard

F3 Motherlode members work out at the El Dorado County Veterans Monument in Placerville. The group focuses on fitness and fellowship.

so you’re not feeling like you’re not able to participate with everyone, and if you’re at the 12 most of the time, it gives you a bit of extra work.”

Each workout consists of a rotating group of leaders who will host a workout after attending a few, which keeps each workout fresh. The idea is to promote leadership within the group and allow each member to have their voice heard and respected.

“It’s a leadership opportunity; a lot of the guys wouldn’t normally jump toward leadership positions,” Ross said. “But once a month, you’re leading this group of eight to 20 people, which is difficult. It’s definitely an opportunity to grow as a leader and a man.”

Each workout ends with a small meeting and a circle of trust. The meeting is to share announcements about future hangout opportunities and community service opportunities. The men also take note of the folks whom they have not seen at a workout in a while and make efforts to reach out to them as a group to check in on them and try to get them back to another workout.

The circle of trust is a moment that allows the men to share something in their lives they are struggling with; it can be anything from work-related issues, relationships or struggles as a father.

“The circle gives us an opportunity to say, ‘Hey, I’m struggling with this,’ because so often we struggle in isolation,” said Tim White, also known as Betty Crocker. “You tend to think you’re the only one, but oftentimes someone else has been through something similar, or is going through it now, and this provides an

Error Continued from A1

those new units back in, they were further subtracted back out,” Oates said. “What resulted was the baseline of available capacity to develop was significantly lower particularly in the El Dorado Hills community region than what it should have been.

“So then the next domino to fall was allocating the growth,” he added, explaining that it resulted in the El Dorado Hills community region building out sooner and with fewer units than anticipated, which “resulted in us reallocating some of that overflow growth further up the hill into Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, into Zone B of the TIF program.”

The TIF zones are: Zone C — El Dorado Hills; Zone B — Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, Diamond Springs; and Zone A — the remainder of unincorporated county (West Slope only).

“How can anybody make that kind of mistake? Has anybody checked their work?” Chair George Turnboo asked DOT Director Rafael Martinez said of the thousands of data points inputted, “It just so happens that this was one where the minus should have been a plus.

“The system has its checks and balances incorporated into it,” he continued. “Now, is it perfect? No.”

Martinez said they caught the error within three months and immediately contacted stakeholders and consultants.

A decrease in the amount of grant funding from state and federal sources had been one reason the mistake was overlooked, he added.

“(It) made sense in terms of … then if we are receiving less funding from the state and from the feds, it would then (result) in a higher TIF,” Martinez said.

Oates confirmed the county received $70 million in grant funding in 2020 and $57 million in 2024.

Chris Gregerson, an engineer from Kimley-Horn and Associates in Sacramento, said future capacities from 2023-45 for single- and multifamily parcels had been in error with El Dorado Hills recorded as having a 3,468 single-family home capacity when the actual number is 5,349.

The communities of Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, Diamond Springs, the unincorporated area around Placerville and the remainder of the u nincorporated areas of the west slope had smaller discrepancies in single-family home projection errors. However, some of the multi-family parcel capacities, as well as nonresidential development capacities, were in error too.

“Cameron Park sees the largest growth where previously Shingle Springs had the largest growth,” Gregerson said.

DOT and county staff, along with consultants, have to come up with appropriate fees every five years with a major update to the TIF, as well as an annual update.

opportunity to connect over it.”

First-time attendee Chase Snook, who gained the name “Mayday” for his love of flying and building planes, recently moved back to Placerville and was excited to find a community of other men he could connect with in his newfound area.

“It’s harder to find people when you’re doing life and you’re busy and you’ve got kids and work, but we’re all in the same general area of life and we want the same thing — community,” Snook said.

Snook explained he found the group to be “awesome,” and he loved that everyone seemed genuine, and he never felt intimidated.

In addition to working out and bonding, the men have also participated in parades in Placerville and host events like trivia nights, vinyl nights and other events — open to all.

F3 Nation hosts workouts across the country and men are welcome to join workouts in other areas while traveling. Other F3 members may show up and introduce themselves, by nickname, at Motherlode workouts.

Men who are interested in joining the community can find the next workout on f3motherlode. com. Women who are looking for something similar can check out Females In Action, which has an El Dorado chapter.

“No matter where you are on your journey, you need to be accelerating,” Anderson said. “We want to make sure everyone who’s out in the morning is pushing themselves to be better. We don’t want to leave you behind on your journey.”

The California Mitigation Fee Act allows for development to pay for its fair share of the cost for improvements associated with alleviating impacts of that development.

The major update of the Traffic Impact Fee Program and the Capital Improvement Program was approved by the board in December 2024.

Supervisor Brooke Laine said she remembered that December meeting.

“The Building Department was here that day and they were saying, something’s wrong,” Laine said. “Something’s wrong with this number. Give us 30 days; let us dig in. We haven’t had time. And we didn’t do that.”

Supervisor Lori Parlin said she remembered that day clearly as well.

“No. 1, I questioned the data all along,” Parlin said. “(I asked) Rafael, if we put this off for 30 days is the data going to change? And you said absolutely not. You’ve gone through and checked it.”

“Since Dec. 3 we’ve had a much more collaborative partnership with the stakeholders in this county, of which many are in this room right now,” Martinez said. “They too have their specialists and their professionals and their consultants.

“These numbers are going to now get triple-checked, quadruple checked,” he added.

Parlin asked how many permits were processed with the incorrect data and what is being done to remedy it.

Oates said 49 permits had been issued since the new fees began on Feb. 1.

“We have many, many more that have submitted their applications,” he added. “They just have not paid their fees and pulled the permits to date.”

Of the 49 permits, 46 are residential and three commercial. Refunds will be given for the difference between what people paid and what the new fees will be after the revised major update of the Traffic Impact Fee Program is approved at the June 10 board meeting, Oates said. A list of paid permits that have been issued will be included on the agenda.

The new fees will go into effect Aug. 9. Folks who applied for permits but have not paid yet and those who apply before the new fees take effect will have to pay the current fees and will be refunded the difference, Oates said.

To offset the costs, DOT staff came up with three scenarios of which Scenario 2 was recommended.

“The result of Scenario 2 is that fees are significantly lower than where they are today,” Oates said. “They are more in line with where they were before the current fee schedule went into effect.”

Vance Jarrard, legislative advocate with the North State Building Industry Association, said he had been following the issue since it came up last year and noted Martinez had been meeting with him and other stakeholders.

TURKEY RESCUE

“Obviously this makes a significant difference in the ability to build homes in El Dorado County,” Jarrard said, adding he had provided county staff with an updated analysis with six issues to work out, “particularly around capital improvements and allocation of funds.”

The board unanimously approved DOT’s proposed revisions; received the adjusted El Dorado Countywide 2045 Housing and Employment Projections Memorandum, dated April 17; receive information on

revisions to the list of roadway deficiency projects resulting from approved growth rates, adjusted growth allocations and corresponding revisions to the Travel Demand Model; directed staff to adjust the residential and non-residential offset percentages to the proposed TIF using the proposed Scenario 2; and directed staff to return on June 10 with the appropriate resolution for adoption of the revised TIF update and to incorporate the changes to the CIP.

Photo courtesy of the El Dorado County Fire protection District Crews from Engine 25 in Placerville, El Dorado County Animal Services and the El Dorado County Department of Transportation teamed up May 22 for a feel-good rescue in Camino. Six baby turkeys — also known as poults — were trapped in a storm drain. Thanks to some quick thinking and teamwork, all six were safely rescued. The little ones appeared to be orphaned so they were taken to Sierra Wildlife Rescue for care and evaluation.

OPINION

California Matters

State’s high living costs and high poverty sharpen its economic divide

Forty years ago I wrote a series of 14 articles for the Sacramento Bee describing major economic, social, cultural and political trends coursing through California as the 20th century was drawing to a close.

One theme of the series, which later became a book, was the transformation of California from a state with high economic and social mobility to one of relatively rigid classes defined by ethnicity, education, incomes and wealth.

I quoted two researchers, Leon Bouvier and Philip Martin, who had projected California’s future as “the possible emerging of a two-tier economy with Asians and non-Hispanic whites competing for high-status positions while Hispanics and Blacks struggle to get the low-paying service jobs.”

Unfortunately their analysis turned out to be quite accurate.

California has the nation’s highest rate of poverty as defined by the Census Bureau when it includes the cost of living in its calculations — 18.9% in 2023, or more than 7 million people.

Additional research by the Public Policy Institute of California revealed that 31.1% of Californians were living in or near poverty in 2023; more than half that group is Latino and another 13.6% is Black.

Furthermore, the poverty rate among undocumented immigrants was 29.6%. And, unsurprisingly, Californians without high school diplomas were almost four times more likely than college-educated Californians to be poor.

High poverty rates underscore the fact that Californians’ costs for housing, utilities, fuel and other necessities of life are among the nation’s highest. In some high-cost counties, California’s housing department considers adults making more than $100,000 a year to be poor in terms of qualifying for housing assistance.

Being poor from an income standpoint has another aspect that hasn’t gotten as much attention — the even starker stratification of Californians by wealth.

There’s a logical connection between the two. Low family income and high living costs make it more di cult to buy a home, contribute to retirement accounts and otherwise acquire what’s known as generational wealth — assets that can grow and be passed down to heirs.

The Public Policy Institute of California also has delved into that aspect of Californians’ personal finances.

“Wealth creation is of particular concern in

The Rural Life

Letters to the Editor

A change at MORE

EDITOR:

Dear families, sta , stakeholders and, most importantly, the people served by Mother Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises,

On April 3, 2025, I celebrated my 42nd anniversary with this incredible organization, MORE. It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve alongside so many dedicated individuals, all united by a shared commitment to inclusion, empowerment and compassion.

After much reflection, I have decided that the time has come for me to step down as CEO of MORE. While I am retiring from this leadership role, I am not retiring from the mission that has fueled my heart for more than four decades. I look forward to continuing my involvement as a volunteer and consultant, supporting the work that continues to transform lives every day.

On June 1, 2025, the MORE Board of Directors and leadership team will o cially announce the appointment of Kelli Nuttall as the next CEO of MORE. Kelli has been a key leader at MORE

for 18 years, including the last 12 in continuous service. She has walked beside me in nearly every facet of this role and brings a depth of experience, heart and vision that MORE is incredibly fortunate to have.

Kelli embodies MORE’s mission and has already demonstrated the leadership, commitment and innovation that will carry this organization into its next exciting chapter. She is supported by one of the strongest leadership teams in our history, and I have every confidence in the continued success and growth of MORE under her guidance.

Beginning July 1, I will o cially step into my new role as consultant and volunteer, assisting with the transition and cheering on the amazing work ahead.

I am deeply grateful to the board and executive committee for their thoughtful leadership and support during this transition. Please stay connected with us by visiting our newly updated website at morerehab.org starting July 1, where

‘Whataboutism’ assumes two wrongs do make a

How about we ditch the whatabout?

Stay with me, here. Miriam Webster defines “whataboutism” as “a rhetorical device that involves accusing others of o enses as a way of deflecting attention from one’s own deeds.”

You know how it works. Someone on one side of the political divide will point to wrongdoing on the other side and the response will be, “Oh, yeah? Well, what about [that thing your side did?]”

“That thing” may or may not be closely related to the wrongdoing in question and may or may not be at the same scale. But it doesn’t matter, because the retort achieves its goal of “winning” the moment.

The thing to realize about whataboutism, though, is that it isn’t a valid defense at all.

“It doesn’t actually refute anything,”

■ See WALTERS, page A7 ■

right

writes conservative journalist and author Jonah Goldberg in “The Dispatch.” “If you pay attention, you’ll realize that it actually concedes the point. ‘Everybody does it’ isn’t remotely synonymous with ‘I didn’t do it.’”

Another knock on whataboutism is that the frequent use of it begins to distort the perceptions of right and wrong.

“It implies that all actions regardless of context share a moral equivalency, and since nobody is perfect, all criticism is hypocritical and so everybody should do whatever they want,” observes John Oliver, host of the award-winning HBO program “Last Week Tonight.”

In simpler terms, it means two or more wrongs do in fact make a right — or at least a “not very wrong.”

This function of whataboutism makes sense when you consider where the device was popularized. That

Admitting when your side is actually wrong is essential. The insinuation of many “what about” objections is double standards and hypocrisy.

would be in the Soviet Union during the Cold War, where any criticism of human-rights abuse was met with, “What about what X, Y and Z did here, there and everywhere?”

This strategy has been perfected under Vladimir Putin. In 2014, for example, when asked about Russia’s annexation of Crimea, he replied, in essence, “What about the United States’ annexation of Texas?”

So why has this flawed and — let’s be honest — reprehensible form of argument become so popular in the U.S.? Because, as I mentioned earlier, it’s extremely e ective at “winning” in a superficial sense. It confuses the issue and ducks responsibility for the wrongdoing in question.

According to Britannica online, politicians often use whataboutism “to shift the focus of public debates away from issues that reflect badly on them, to undermine the credibility of their

opponents, and to confuse people by suggesting false equivalences.”

These days, whataboutism is supercharged by extreme partisanship.

“Whataboutist responses often appeal to, and in their own way serve to strengthen, the prejudices and biases of partisan audiences,” states Britannica.

Again, both sides do it. But — as I hope I’m making clear — that doesn’t make it right! Whataboutism is devastating to the true overall goal of politics, which is to work together to make life better for all Americans, am I right?

Yet thanks at least in part to this rhetorical device, politics is no longer about working together to solve problems. No, its apparent goal now is simply to win, to “own” the other

DAN WALTERS

JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER

Continued from A6

California, where high costs of living, high poverty rates, and a shortage of housing all exacerbate the challenges of building up assets,” PPIC researchers Tess Thorman and Shannon McConville write in their new study. “But while Californians keenly feel the barriers to building wealth, many have only a broad sense that the experience is shared, and relatively little research has explored this important component of economic well-being in the state.”

While overall, Californians’ net worths (assets minus debts) are about 50% higher than those of other states, thanks in part to California’s high housing values, low wealth is concentrated in

Meyer Continued from A6

side. Conveniently, this goal is what’s most highly rewarded on social media, which values aggressive “owning” above all else.

There was of course no social media in ancient Greece, but there were practitioners of whataboutism. Those were the Sophists, teachers of rhetoric who valued success over moral truth in a debate and were not above using persuasive trickery to win a point. Plato criticized them for this, and today “sophist” is a term for someone who reasons with clever but fallacious arguments.

OK, if whataboutism is so bad, what’s the alternative?

There’s no easy answer to this. First, let’s back up a moment and realize that accusing someone of

Latino and Black households, corresponding to lower levels of education.

“Homeownership rates and equity are low among Latino households, driven largely by their younger age profile and lower education levels,” the study found. “In contrast, Black/other homeownership rates are low even after we account for factors like age, income and education levels.

“While three in four households owe some money on unsecured debts (those without collateral), like credit cards, student loans and/or medical bills,” the report continues, “older households are less likely than others to hold any unsecured debt, as

whataboutism can itself be manipulative. Are you trying to guide the conversation in a way to gain understanding and reveal truth? Or are you simply trying to discredit the other side? Good faith on both sides of the argument is essential to finding common ground and perhaps a way forward.

Admitting when your side is actually wrong is essential. The insinuation of many “what about” objections is double standards and hypocrisy. So the best course is to concede your side’s obviously related faults in advance to preempt the “what about” response.

As Jonah Goldberg points out, politicians make themselves vulnerable to whataboutism when they “refuse to draw bright lines between themselves

Edited by Will Shortz No. 0423

are white, Asian and immigrant households. Latino households are more likely to carry credit card debt and Black/other and Latino households are more likely to carry education-related debt than white and Asian households.”

So there it is, another confirmation that California has, indeed, become a highly stratified society — the perhaps unchangeable reality of a state whose political leadership still insists that it is a model for the world.

Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.

and the bad actors they’re associated with, fairly or otherwise.”

He also says, “the obligation to condemn outrageous and indefensible behavior falls on those who have the most credibility with those behaving outrageously.”

Thus, for one obvious example, Democrats should unequivocally decry the Black Lives Matters protests that turned violent and Republicans should do the same regarding the Jan. 6 violence.

Admitting your side’s faults gives you the standing to discuss (fairly!) the faults on the other side. As Brett McCracken, author of “The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World,” observes, “The ability to recognize problems on all sides is wisdom.”

Exactly. And that’s what we need a whole lot more of nowadays … wisdom, not whataboutism.

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.

Letters Continued from A6

you can learn more about what’s next for MORE. This journey has been a profound blessing and I look forward to this new season of service with purpose and joy.

SUSIE DAVIES

Soon-to-be MORE consultant & volunteer

Have something to say?

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Announcements

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com

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CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS

CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.

El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR

RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452.

We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see

edcdems.org for more information. GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses.The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on May 19, July 21, September 15 and November 17, 2025 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.

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TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.

Forsberg

COMICS

Oak Ridge softball legacy lives on with three-straight section titles

Thomas Frey Special to the Mountain Democrat

For the third consecutive season, Oak Ridge High School’s varsity softball team wins the Division 1 Sac-Joaquin Section championship, topping nationally ranked No. 11 Del Oro on Saturday at California State University, Sacramento.

The No. 23 Trojans trailed 1-0 until scoring three runs in the sixth and hanging on to win 3-2.

“It means the world just because of all the hard work we put in,” said senior Carmen Montes de Oca, who has been on all three title teams. “To do it with these girls, like I love each and every one of them and I have been working with some of them for five to 10 years.”

Montes de Oca, Carly Short, Ellison Schroeder, Emery Glaser and Brooklyn Paratore have been on all three section title teams.

Del Oro leaped out to a 1-0 lead in the fourth after putting together consecutive hits.

Then in the sixth Oak Ridge sophomore Molly Railey led off the inning with a base knock out of the nine-spot in the batting order.

“That was huge to see Molly produce and get the rally going,” Schroeder said. “It was awesome and it means a ton. I think once we were able to do that, I think we knew that we had it.”

Railey was bunted over to second by Short. Paratore and Montes De Oca then got on and the bases were loaded for Glaser.

The Nevada commit lifted the ball deep and over the left fielder’s glove as the ball got to the wall.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ve been generous with your commitments. You used to think it was part of being a good person, but now you believe that even “good people” set boundaries. Today’s situation calls on you to ponder what is really fair.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Perception can be tricky, murky and inexact. Your gut feelings and weird impressions might not pass a lab test, but they’re perfect for real life. You’re built to feel your way through, not run numbers on everything.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Romantic thrills — or creative sparks — will be part of the fun. You’ll take that buzzy energy and channel it into connection, expression and a little silly mischief. Tonight brings a shift: reflection, softness and beauty.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). While you’re not afraid to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty with the work, you’re also open to fortune’s favor. Ease can be just as legitimate as effort, and it’s OK if some wins come without sweat.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Playing devil’s advocate (arguing the opposite side) and changing your mind on purpose are encouraged — not because you’re wishy-washy but because it’s a mental exercise that frees you from feeling stuck. There’s power in thinking differently.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You’ll be nudged — perhaps even pushed — into action, not because the universe is being a bully but because it’s taking some of the pressure to decide off you and showing you there’s a clear direction, a place you are needed. You are, in fact, already there.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). A range of solutions will present themselves — some of them smart, others flashy but unwise. Were you less experienced, the wrong options might entice. But you’re savvy, with the insight and discernment to choose a better path.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The muses show up to your scene somewhere between fashionably late and absurdly overdue — but at least they come. So just keep working so you’re sure to be there to greet them on arrival. Your creation will sing.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). It takes courage to go first. Whether pitching an idea, introducing yourself, asking someone out or whatever else, there’s no guarantee it’ll be received well. That risk is what gives the gesture power — and potential for high reward.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Grace looks effortless, but that’s an illusion built on strength, practice, balance and adaptation. Today you’ll shift, wobble and recalibrate as you figure out how to carry what life hands you. Keep trying new configurations until one feels sustainable.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb.

“Mikayla Finn is a strong pitcher and I knew she was going to come for a strike and she was going to try to pitch it in the zone,” Glaser said. “I was ready for that pitch and swung the bat, and when you swing the bat, good things happen.”

Railey and Paratore both scored while Montes De Oca reached third base on the double by Glaser.

“Emery is just so clutch on the field and with her bat,” Schroeder said. ”She comes through in big moments and she is always able to produce.”

Montes de Oca then scored on a passed ball to give the Trojans a 3-1 lead.

Schroeder was dominant in the circle, especially through the first five innings, allowing just two hits. Del

Crime

log Continued from A2

10:17

May 8

7:40 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Palmer Drive in Cameron Park.

1:21 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Placerville Drive in Placerville.

6:26 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Faith Lane/Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.

9:12 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a restaurant on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

May 9

12:53 a.m. Battery was reported at an apartment complex on El Dorado Hills Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

2:17 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of oral copulation with a victim under 10 years of age and lewd

Oro got bats going in the sixth by scoring a run and loading the bases with no outs. Then Schroeder worked her magic as the next two batters grounded out. On both of those outs, the infielder threw home to cut down the lead runner. Then with two outs, Schroeder got the last batter to fly out, stranding three runners on base.

“Believe it or not, Ellison likes the bases loaded,” Montes de Oca said. “She says it calms her down. So they got the bases loaded and I was like, oh, she’s got this; no more runs are scoring here.”

The Torjans led 3-2 heading into the final frame. Again, the Golden Eagles got runners on base after a walk and a single with one out. Del Oro got another hit to left field, but Oak Ridge was able to throw out the lead runner at the plate for the second out.

With runners on second and third and two outs, Schroeder wound up and threw her pitch, the ball was grounded to sophomore Gemma Almont at second base. Almost fielded the ball cleanly and fired to Paratore at first for the final out.

“I was confident,” said head coach Sam Toy. “They’ve got experience and you can see that they were composed. They’ve been there before and they know how to play with that pressure on them. So proud of how they got out of that.”

Trojans threw their gloves high in the air and celebrated in between the circle and first base.

“Ellison was incredible,” Montes de Oca said. “She has been dominant this whole year. Going into this she knew she could get Del Oro’s hitters. Obviously, they’re a threat, but she knew she could beat them so we worked to her strengths and their weaknesses and she just rolled through them.”

In three career section championship games, Schroeder pitched 18 innings while allowing just four earned runs and striking out 10.

“It means everything,” Schroeder said on the three-peat. “Carmen and Carly are my best friends and I think being able to play with them these four years and kind of leave our legacy behind and just to be able to build up this program together has been really, really special.”

Oak Ridge will play in the Northern California regional playoffs this week. Last year the Trojans reached the NorCal final.

12:55

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Photo by Thomas Frey

The Oak Ridge softball team poses with the blue banner after defeating Del Oro 3-2 in the Division 1 Sac-Joaquin Section championship. It’s the third straight title for the El Dorado Hills program.

Grow and thrive, Class of 2025

Thousands of El Dorado County graduates donned their gowns and tossed their caps at commencement ceremonies last week. The Mountain Democrat wishes every graduate the best of luck in future endeavors.

Photos by Laurie Edwards

Payton Valor White, above second from the left, gives Gavin Wicks a congratulatory fist bump as the final row of Bruin seniors waits to receive diplomas. Also pictured, left to right: Emerson Laney White, McKinzie Whitney, Yashan Wickramasinghe and Kendra Morgan Wieland. At right, Best friends Kate Robinson, left, and Saige Edwards share a congratulatory hug following the May 23 Ponderosa High School commencement. Kate will attend Folsom Lake College while Saige plans to begin studies at San Diego Mesa College this fall.

Photos by Cecilia Clark

Union Mine High School Valedictorian Jordan Jerome Haley, above, addresses the crowd at the May 22 commencement ceremony in El Dorado. Below, Diamondback graduate Mathew Manfredi had his own cheering squad at last week’s ceremony. His grandmother, father and brother, left to right, proudly held up Mathew’s head on a stick when he received his diploma.

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene Oak Ridge High School graduate Isaiah Benning Witter, at left, shares the love after receiving his diploma at the May 23 commencement ceremony in El Dorado Hills. Above, Class President Andrew Hansen celebrates as he walks back up to the stage to address ORHS graduates with closing remarks after the ceremony.

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

El Dorado High School graduate Richard Ferdon, above, fist bumps his band teacher Jared Collins after receiving his diploma. Collins said the tuba player was his student starting in seventh grade. Below, EDHS Assistant Principal Tara Grudin takes the time to check each student as they make their way to the stage to receive their diploma on May 22.

“I’ve noticed some changes, and care about your well-being...”

Tips for Talking With Your Loved Ones About Assisted Living.

We all want the best for our aging parents. When we start to notice changes in their daily routines, like di culty with household tasks, missing meals, or isolation, it may be time to start talking about Assisted Living. By approaching the topic with compassion and openness, you can help ease the transition and make it a collaborate, positive experience for everyone.

The following tips can guide conversations with family members to help determine whether Assisted Living might offer the supportive environment needed for a safer, more comfortable lifestyle.

Choose the Right Moment: Find a calm, quiet time when everyone is relaxed and free from distractions.

Express at You Care: Start by a rming your love and concern. Emphasize that your goal is to ensure their comfort, safety, and happiness.

Be Honest and Empathetic: Share your observations gently, focusing on the bene ts of additional support rather than on any limitation.

Listen Actively: Encourage them to share their feelings and concerns. Validate emotions and be patient with their responses.

Provide Information: Share details about the community, such as the quality of care, activities available, and testimonials from others, if available. O er to tour a facility together to see rsthand what’s available.

Reassure eir Independence: Let them know that Assisted Living is designed to support their independence rather than take it away.

Take it Step-by-Step: Frame the conversation as the beginning of an ongoing discussion, rather than a nal decision. is allows time for adjustment and further exploration together.

Ponté Palmero is here to help your family through the process.

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

May 29

Paramount Entertainment presents the Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular at 7:30 p.m. at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

May 30

Broadway At Music Circus presents “Million Dollar Quartet” at 7:30 p.m. and running through June 5 at the UC Davis Health pavilion in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Entertainment Events presents “Girls Night! The Musical” at 8 p.m. at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter. net or call (916) 608-6888.

May 31

Join Save the Graves for headstone cleaning at Placerville Union Cemetery on Bee Street from 9 a.m. to noon. Training provided.

El Dorado Hills Arts Association presents Art Meets Tea — a Perfect Blend from 3-5 p.m. at the Teaspoon in El Dorado Hills Town Center. For more information visit eldoradohillsarts.com.

Showroom entertainment at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe presents Jefferson Starship at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit tinyurl. com/9c3db54t.

The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera presents Celebrating a Decade: Mahler’s “Titan” at 7:30 pm at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center. For tickets and more information call (916) 476-5975 or visit sacphilopera.org.

Join the Sacramento Valley Symphonic Band Association for the Carmichael Park Community Band Festival starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. on Sunday. For more information visit svsba.net.

Join the American Indian Education program and Marysville Joint Unified School District for the 43rd annual Yuba-Sutter Pow Wow at Yuba College, Marysville campus. The event from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information email pbennett@ mjusd.k12.ca.us or call (530) 749-6196.

Starbright Entertainment presents Creedence Revelation featuring Randy Linder Songs of Creedence Clearwater Revival at 8 p.m. at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

June 1

The 32nd annual America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride will start at Tahoe Blue Event Center in Stateline, Nev. at 6 a.m. and finishing at the UNR 4H Camp in Stateline between noon and 6 p.m. For more information visit lls.org.

June 3

Vitalant will hold an El Dorado Hills Stadium 14 & IMAX Theater blood drive

11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. with the Bloodmobile in the northside parking lot at 2101 Vine St. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM486 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code.

Putting the green in Herbert Green

Andrew Vonderschmitt

Features editor

On May 12

Herbert Green Middle School

students cut the ribbon on an all new, student managed outdoor garden to add to the green possibilities at the school.

Last year science teacher, Josh Keane refurbished a small garden area on campus allowing his three science classes totalling 90 students to share the space and learn about the satisfaction of growing their own food.

“It didn’t get a lot of sun, but it was still a garden,” said Keane. “We kind of rejuvenated it. The students planted some different things like carrots, we planted kale, some different types of lettuce.”

Turns out the students liked the idea but sharing the small space was clearly not enough to go around.

“Each student had to share a square foot section, and so it was kind of tight for them,” Keane recalled.

Keane started looking for more space on the campus and was offered a nice flat spot that allowed for plenty of sunshine.

“So I took them up on that,” he said.

Students helped level the ground, add in planter beds and run irrigation lines.

“They learned a lot about how to build and whatnot,” Keane said.

To start the beds off they planted flowers.

“We have flowers because it’s the end of the year,” Keane said. “We won’t have a chance to work with it, so we planted some zinnias, we got some Texas blue bells and a variety of different sunflowers.”

Planting plans

Keane plans to plant some vegetable varieties in an empty bed to supplement the hydroponic lettuce growing program he has going in a classroom. More on that later.

“Some cherry tomatoes, parsnips and radishes and carrots,” said Keane. “We’ll get that planted this next week, and hopefully that’ll be ready to go by August, and be able to harvest some of it when school starts.”

Eighth graders William Degaust and Evan Thomas had a hand in making this garden happen.

Thomas said he got involved because he just likes to help people.

“It’s something I like to do,” he said. “I like to help people out with stuff like this.”

However, he has enjoyed the work and is excited to leave a legacy behind once he graduates.

“It’s nice to know that next year, especially my brother who’s going into sixth grade right now, will be eating the stuff I helped grow,” he said.

Degaust helped Keane last year and enjoys working outdoors. He was available to work on the irrigation when the time came.

“Being able to be out here and not have to sit inside,” he said. “Doing something other than staring at a piece of paper.”

Inside too

Keane has more green that he’s sharing with the student body. Through a grant program obtained by the cafeteria staff, Keane has been able to provide fresh lettuce to the chefs via a state of the art hydroponics garden inside one of his classrooms. He has students working on that project as well.

Avery Martin, a seventh grader learned all about growing in this space age looking pod somewhat accidentally.

“I was asking for things to do, like clean up because I didn’t have anything to do,” Martin said. “So Mr. Keen asked me to start helping with this, just for one day.”

That one day extended into two and she kept coming back to work on the project.

“And then it just became a regular thing,” she remembered. “So then I just kept on doing it.”

The harvest was when she could see the bounty of her efforts and appreciate more where her food comes from.

“It’s a good experience,” she said. “To know what happens

when you’re growing stuff.”

She has learned about how to test for the nutrient value in the hydroponic water and to make sure the lettuce is properly nourished.

“We have certain nutrients that we put in the water system that keep it healthy,” she said. The

and the

bay will continue producing fresh lettuce so that the students at Herbert Green Middle School might, in the fall, have fresh, grown-on-campus salads in their lunches.

new garden will continue growing over the summer, with Keane’s help,

hydroponics

Photos by Andrew Vonderschmitt

Herbert Green Middle School science teacher Josh Keane, above left, found some help planting a garden on campus from eighth graders William Degaust, above center, and Evan Thomas, above right. Seventh grader Avery Martin tends to the hydroponic lettuce garden.

CALIFORNIA RAMBLING

Catalina Island Getaway

Barbara L. Steinberg

Special to the Mountain Democrat

Californians, do you appreciate how lucky you are? Everyone talks about California’s diversity as a travel destination: beaches, mountains, deserts, valleys, vistas, natural and man-made wonders, urban and rural locales. Seriously, you can travel the globe in California enjoying every possible diversion and topography, including islands.

There are numerous island getaways in California, but none more special than Santa Catalina Island. A trip to Catalina defines relaxation, renewal, rejuvenation and romance. Every visit is remarkable and feels like a world away.

There are only two ways to get to Catalina: by sea or by air. Part of the Channel Islands, there’s obviously no driving the 22 miles of waterway to reach the island. Most people choose the water route via the Catalina Express out of Long Beach, San Pedro (less frequent in winter months) and Dana Point. In addition, the Catalina Flyer operates daily from Newport Beach. Private boats — motor, sail and luxury yachts — ply the waters to reach the protected Avalon Bay. Helicopters land at a helipad near Avalon and small private planes arrive at the mountaintop “Airport in the Sky.” Catalina Island is at the top of California’s lengthy unexpected list of destinations. The comparisons you often hear are Mediterranean or Greek Isle or like another country. It’s all true. Terraced across the hillsides, the tiny hamlet of Avalon is the main city of Catalina and is the population hub. An eclectic assortment of shops, restaurants, cobbled walkways and colorful tile works create a visual delight. Located on Catalina’s west end, the village of Two Harbors provides a more rustic experience. However, you certainly won’t lack food, comfort or friendly camaraderie of other island guests and staff thanks to recent upgrades by the Catalina Island Company.

The lodging options on Catalina Island fall right into the diversity realm. From camping to luxury

vacation rentals, the choices vary.

During a previous visit, ocean and hillside views greeted us each morning from our sun-drenched balcony at Hamilton Cove — a resort condominium community of fullyequipped villas. It was surreal. Where were we? Mainland California was just miles away; I’m not so sure.

Catalina Island Vacation Rentals at Hamilton Cove Villas offer couples, families and friends extra room to relax and the true feeling of an island escape. Each morning brought stunning ocean views, brilliant sunshine and the lingering question, “Where are we?”

Hamilton Cove Villas provide rental options for sleeping up to six people. Spacious living spaces, balconies, flatscreen TVs, DVDs, full bath (one or two) and endless views of Catalina Island. Fully-equipped kitchens and barbecues provide additional dining options; particularly favorable for families. A small private beach, playground, pool, Jacuzzi, tennis courts, croquet and putting green

complete this vacation dream. Plus, the rentals include a golf cart, the preferred mode of transportation on Catalina. Avalon is a short cart ride away. It’s always amazing to hear someone say, “Catalina? There’s nothing to do there.” Sorry, cross those folks right off the list. After multiple trips to Catalina, I look forward to each return. A tour of the Art Decosplendid Casino (Italian for “place of entertainment”) is another of the many Catalina must-sees. Built-in 1929, the ballroom hosted dozens of Big Bands and thousands of music and dance enthusiasts back in the day. Many Catalina Island special events are held at the Casino including the Catalina Island Jazz Trax Festival every October. A “Behind the Scenes Tour”, is one of two Casino tours; both come highly recommended.

A wide array of dining experiences fits right into the island time concept of Catalina Island. Relaxed and easy. Options to eat al fresco are many and, in particular, along Avalon Bay. Grab something to go from the deli at the Von’s Grocery before heading out on a day of exploration. Oh, yes, the Airport in the Sky’s Café is famed for its buffalo burgers. If fresh seafood is what you seek, then your heart’s desire is Catalina. Fish tacos at the end of the Green Pleasure Pier are a must at Avalon Seafood (aka Earl & Rosie’s a decades-long tradition) and one of the first places I go once my feet hit the island shore. Depending on your

accommodations, do a little grocery shopping, and enjoy an intimate meal from your private balcony.

The Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Garden is an escape from the surreal island retreat. The native plant gardens are impressive and showcase the diversity of species endemic to the California islands or, specifically, Catalina. The views from the Memorial are worth the hike. The Art Deco architectural details will end any doubts about Catalina’s exceptional attractions. You will often find yourself alone in the garden, which presents terrific opportunities to reflect on Catalina’s beauty and peaceful nature. On a previous visit, a lone raven cried out and followed our group to the top of the Memorial. Maybe it was the spirit of William Wrigley urging us toward the summit to breathe in expansive views of Avalon Bay.

Every season is Catalina season, but the shoulder months between the end of October and the pre-Memorial Day holidays like many destinations offer better rates and fewer people on the island. Check ahead for special and seasonal events. The flying fish migration is plenty of reason to celebrate each July. Sign up for one of the boat tours — you have to see it to believe this magical occurrence. Plein air, marlin, silent films, jazz, wine tasting, marathon and more, the list of events goes on and on.

Who said there’s nothing to do on Catalina?

All-female band aims for joy

The West Coast-based Americana rock ‘n’ roll band, Ashleigh Flynn & The Riveters will stop in Placerville as part of the first round of the tour in support of the release of its second album, “Good Morning, Sunshine,” which dropped on April 4, on the Blackbird record label to glowing reviews.

The all-female ensemble is gearing up to take its latest collection of vibrant, genre-blurring songs on tour, bringing the celebrated live energy to stages across the country, with this first batch of engagements through California.

“Good Morning, Sunshine” was produced by Nancy Luca, the band’s talented guitarist, with engineering by Katie Sawicki and Ricky Wilkins, and mastering by John Neufeld. Most of the album was recorded at The Map Room in Portland, Ore, with more sessions at Flynn’s home studio.

Reflecting on the process, Flynn shared, “Nancy brought joy to producing and channeled the spirit of her musical ancestors, like Tom Petty

and Bo Diddley.”

Ashleigh Flynn & The Riveters describes its sound as “rock and roll with twang,” a dynamic fusion that reflects Flynn’s upbringing in Kentucky and Virginia, where she was steeped in bluegrass, Motown and rock.

From the opening riff of “Drunk in Ojai,” a playful tale of a night gone wrong, to reflective tracks like “Love is an Ember,” the album showcases the band’s knack for blending heartfelt storytelling with toe-tapping melodies.

The Riveters, founded by Flynn and Luca in 2017, aim to elevate women in music by creating a space for collaboration and celebration of female artistry. They also use their music to inspire hope and raise awareness about the challenges faced by women, LGBTQ+ communities, marginalized groups and the natural world in today’s deeply divided social and political landscape.

The Placerville stop will take place on June 1 at the Green

Photos courtesy of Love Catalina Island

Catalina Island offers many varieties of recreation and stunning views including waterfront activities, entertainment and fresh seafood.

To prune or not to prune tomatoes

To prune or not to prune tomatoes, that is a question that backyard tomato growers need to answer for themselves.

Growing strong, healthy tomato plants increases the chance of getting a large crop of delicious tomatoes.

The careful pruning of tomato plants during the first few months of the season will help to achieve this goal.

Pruning allows the plant to direct its energy into producing fruit rather than excess foliage. It also promotes increased airflow which reduces the humid conditions that favor fungal and bacterial growth.

There are two basic types of tomatoes: indeterminate and determinate.

Indeterminate tomatoes, which include most heirloom tomatoes, grow like a vine and produce fruit throughout the growing season. Determinate tomato varieties, such as Martino’s Roma, tend to be smaller, bushier plants that produce most of their fruit in a shorter period of time. Both types of tomatoes benefit from the removal of all leaves and branches that touch the ground. This helps prevent the plant from contracting fungal and bacterial diseases.

Training indeterminate vining plants to one or two major stems, called leaders, keeps their wild growth under control and allows the plant to produce bigger tomatoes that ripen earlier. This is accomplished by removing all leaves below the first flower cluster for a single leader and pinching all suckers that grow out of the V junctions above this cluster. For a double leader, establish a strong Y by allowing the sucker right below the first flower cluster to grow into the second stem but remove all additional suckers as the plant grows. Leaves and suckers can be removed by

pinching with your fingers or using shears or clippers. Before and after pruning, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. If you choose to use shears or clippers, disinfect them with alcohol or a 10% bleach solution. For protection against sunscald, you can leave the first two leaves on each sucker and pinch the growth tip above them.

Deborah

Valerga

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

properly. All diseased plant material needs to be thrown in the garbage and not composted. If you are interested in learning more about growing tomatoes and peppers, there will be a free public education class held on Saturday, May 31, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville. Topics that

Determinate tomatoes do not require the intensive pruning that indeterminate types do since they are a bush tomato and once they reach a certain size, they stop growing. The suckers can be allowed to remain and will grow to produce branches that bear fruit. Remember to remove any leaves that touch the ground for health reasons.

The final decision on whether to prune your tomato plants and how to prune them is one based on the tomato varieties grown and personal preference. Regardless of what method, and to what extent, you choose to prune your tomatoes, remember to always follow the basic three Ds of pruning: remove all Dead, Damaged, and Diseased leaves and dispose of them

will be covered include planting, pruning, training and pests. The college charges $2 for all day parking.

For more information about UC Master Gardener classes, events and garden resources visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu.

For garden hours and activity information for the Sherwood Demonstration Garden visit ucanr. edu/sites/EDC_ Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden. Have a gardening question? Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website or leave a message at (530) 621-5512.

For more information about UC Master Food Preserver classes, events and food preserving resources visit ucanr. edu/site/ucce-masterfood-preservers-centralsierra.

EDH Chamber awards scholarships

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce is proud to award four scholarships of $1,000 each to local high school graduates who will continue their education at a university, college or technical school. This year the Chamber received 23 impressive applications from highly qualified students.

One of the scholarships was generously funded by Pacific Interstate Insurance Brokers, with the remaining three made possible by proceeds from the silent auction held at the Chamber’s annual Installation and Business Awards Dinner. The Chamber is committed to growing this impactful sponsorship program in the years to come.

Scholarships were selected by a committee of four community leaders. Each application was evaluated using a points-based system: 50% for community service, 15% for work experience, 15% for extracurricular activities, 10% for grade point average and 10% for financial need.

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce congratulates the following 2025 scholarship recipients, all from Oak Ridge High School: Andrew Hansen, Andrew Ni, Ian Spero and Sophia Voudouris.

“We are honored to support our graduating seniors,” said Debbie Manning, EDHCC president and CEO. “Our hope is that after completing their education, they will return to El Dorado Hills to live and work in our vibrant community.”

Cool your family at Fairytale Town

News release

W

hen the mercury rises this summer, Fairytale Town is a cool refuge — and it’s free thanks to a sponsorship from Bonney Plumbing.

Families receive free admission once the temperature hits 95 degrees starting June 1 through August 31.

“On hot days, Fairytale Town is a great destination because there’s so much shade and even AC in the indoor Story Center play area,” said Kevin SmithFagan, Fairytale Town’s executive director.

Families will find leafy picnic areas, chilled water fountains, weekend performances in the air-conditioned

Children’s Theater and over 20 playsets protected by shade. The Dish & Spoon Café sells snow cones and cold drinks and the misters walkway, the Bonney Cool Zone, is an added bonus that helps keep all visitors refreshed.

Fairytale Town is just off I-5 in William Land Park. Visit fairytaletown.org

Photo by Deborah Valerga Pruning allows the plant to direct its energy into producing fruit.

Pony Express annual Re-Ride departs Sac

Petra Keller National Pony Express Association

On Wednesday, June 11 the thunder of hooves and the spirit of the old west return to Old Town Sacramento as the 2025 Pony Express Annual Re-Ride sets off on its 1,966mile journey to St. Joseph, Mo. Organized by the National Pony Express Association, the Re-Ride is a 10-day, 24-hour-a-day horseback relay reenacting the legendary mail route that helped shape the American frontier. Riding with an authentic leather mochila, a leather pouch used to hold the mail, volunteers carry approx 1200 commemorative letters along the original 1860 Pony Express Trail. California route highlights

• Old Town Sacramento Pony Express Plaza, 2nd & J Streets Wednesday, June 11, The ceremony starts at 1:15 p.m.

The first rider departs at 2 p.m. The National Pony Express Association, local officials, reenactors and the public will send-off celebrating the courage and grit of the original riders. Following the ceremony, the first rider will depart with the mochila, kicking off the 2025 Re-Ride.

• Folsom History Museum

823 Sutter St., Folsom, Wednesday, June 11, Approx. 6:29 p.m.

The Re-Ride will gallop into Gold Rush country with a spirited mochila exchange on Sutter St. The Folsom History Museum will host activities for all ages, historical exhibits and a chance to meet the

modern-day riders.

• El Dorado “Y”

Highway 50 at Pony Express Trail Wednesday, June 11, Approx. 9:53 p.m.

Spectators can witness a classic Pony Expressstyle handoff at this iconic Sierra junction. Riders swiftly change horses in a blur of leather and dust, just as their 19th-century predecessors did on the journey east.

• Celio Ranch

2820 South Upper Truckee Road, South Lake Tahoe, CA Thursday, June 12, Approx. 10:42 a.m.

One of the oldest working ranches in the region, Celio Ranch has deep ties to pioneer and Pony Express history. Riders will pass through the ranch as part of their journey over Echo Summit. Though primarily a working stop, the site underscores the rugged conditions and determination of original Express riders.

• Woodfords, CA

California Handoff to Nevada Division Thursday, June 12, Approx. 1:00 p.m.

At the historic Woodfords Station, the California Division will ceremonially pass the mochila to the Nevada Division, marking a key milestone on the trail. This scenic, high-elevation location is a Pony Express station eastbound in California and remains a cherished site along the route. The public is encouraged to attend, meet the riders and take in interpretive displays about the station’s history and significance.

About the National Pony Express Association

The NPEA is a nonprofit, volunteer-led organization dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of the Pony Express. Through education, reenactments and community events, the NPEA keeps the spirit of the Old West alive for generations to come.

About the Pony Express Annual Re-Ride

The Annual Re-Ride is a living history event that celebrates the legacy of the Pony Express, which operated from April 1860 to October 1861. Though short-lived, the service became legendary for its daring riders, rugged terrain and commitment to fast mail delivery across a developing nation. Spanning over 1,800 miles across eight states, the Pony Express Re-Ride is a 24/7 non-stop relay involving hundreds of riders and horses. Commemorative letters are carried in a mochila, just as they were over 160 years ago. The re-ride is both a living history experience and a logistical achievement, preserving the spirit of the original Pony Express.

“This event bridges generations and geography,” said Petra Keller, corresponding secretary, National Pony Express Association. “We ride to honor those fearless messengers of the past and to keep their memory alive for future generations.”

Spectators are encouraged to attend the mochila exchanges, meet the riders, take photos and engage with local Pony Express volunteers. Follow the ride via GPS tracking at nationalponyexpress.org/ re-ride/follow-the-ride. Guests are welcome at handoff points and landmarks.

Catalyze and connect workshops are coming to EDC

Kristina Vasquez News release

Bridging Divides El Dorado is hosting a series of “Catalyze and Connect: Tools That Build Community” workshops on June 5 in South Lake Tahoe and June 6 in Placerville. Led by Rich Harwood, president and founder of The Harwood Institute, the workshops will open with brief remarks before engaging attendees in roundtable dialogues that allow people to share aspirations and ideas for addressing shared challenges in the community.

“Rich is one of the country’s most inspiring community builders. I’m confident these workshops will help build upon the great work already being done locally to strengthen our county,” said Ken

Futernick, Bridging Divides’ project director. These events are part of Harwood’s campaign for the New Civic Path, and will be anchored by themes from his latest book, “The New Civic Path: Restoring Our Belief in One Another and Our Nation.” This civic campaign is designed to help communities address the central issues we face today, how we might create a path forward that taps into our innate goodness, how we might grow our belief that we can get things done together as Americans and how we might build together, even amid our differences, and create a new trajectory of hope in this country. Each attendee will receive a copy of the book at the event.

As president and founder of The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, Harwood has devoted his 35-year career to revitalizing the

nation’s hardest hit communities, transforming the world’s largest organizations and reconnecting institutions like newsrooms and schools to society. His turning outward approach to catalyzing change has spread to all 50 states and 40 countries worldwide. He is the author of nine books, scores of articles and numerous groundbreaking reports. He has appeared in various national media, including NPR, MSNBC, CNN, PBS NewsHour, the Chronicle of Philanthropy and elsewhere. He is also a regular contributor to The Fulcrum and The Christian Citizen.

The events will take place on June 5 from 9-11 a.m. at Boys & Girls Club of South Lake Tahoe and June 6 from 9-11 a.m at El Dorado County Department of Education in Placerville. For more information or to register visit bit.ly/harwoodedc.

Sacramento Community Foundation celebrates AAPI communities

News release

In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Sacramento Region Community Foundation is proud to highlight the APIs RISE Fund’s 2025 grant recipients. Following a community-driven review process, the four deserving organizations will collectively receive more than $36,000 in grant funding to advance equity, well-being and visibility for AANHPI communities across the Sacramento region. Operating in partnership with the foundation, the APIs RISE Fund is a volunteer-led giving circle that brings together AANHPI philanthropists and community members to pool resources, vote on funding priorities, and uplift grassroots leadership.

“What makes APIs RISE so powerful is the collective spirit behind it,” said Kerry

Wood, CEO of Sacramento Region Community Foundation. “Its members pool resources, learn together and get to make a real impact in our community. It is a joyful, grassroots model of philanthropy that invites everyone to take part, and our team is proud to be their partner in celebrating the generosity of our region’s AANHPI community.”

2025 APIs RISE Fund grant awardees include

• Asian Resources, Inc.: Connecting AANHPI youth and elders to document community histories, build digital archives and cultivate the next generation of cultural leaders.

• Filipino Community of Sacramento and Vicinity: Promoting mental wellness and Filipino-American leadership through workshops designed to strengthen cultural identity.

• Kansha Open History:

Preserving the history and legacy of pre-war Japanese American farming families in the Sacramento Delta through oral histories, archival research and public education.

• Solving Sacramento: Enhancing AANHPI representation in local journalism by uplifting diverse voices and ensuring more inclusive coverage of AANHPI people, issues and contributions.

“Each grant we make is a statement that our communities matter, that our stories deserve to be told, and that local AANHPI leadership should be nurtured and celebrated,” said Jason Jong, co-chair of APIs RISE Fund. “These investments have helped elevate voices, preserve histories, celebrate cultural heritage and support the mental wellness of our communities.”

Since its founding in 2012, the APIs RISE Fund has awarded more than

$240,000 to support critical initiatives led by and for AANHPI communities. The Fund was created to respond to the persistent disparities in philanthropic investment. Although many AANHPI individuals give generously through cultural traditions and informal networks, data from the most recent Big Day of Giving showed that only 5% of donors identified as AANHPI — underscoring the opportunity to expand visibility and inclusion within mainstream philanthropy. According to 2020 Census data, AANHPI residents make up roughly 20% of Sacramento County’s population.

APIs RISE Fund’s annual grantmaking process includes community education panels, member voting, and a focus on equity and shared learning. To learn more, join the giving circle, or support its work, visit apisrise.org. Community members, businesses and/or

organizations interested in helping to strengthen the nonprofit section by establishing similar giving circles in partnership with the Sacramento Region Community Foundation are encouraged to visit sacregcf. org.

About Sacramento Region Community Foundation

Since 1983, the Sacramento Region Community Foundation has awarded over $275 million in grants and scholarships on behalf of local people, families and businesses — and through its flagship program to grow charitable giving in the capital area, Big Day of Giving. The center of philanthropy in the capital area, the Foundation’s mission is to lead, serve and inspire enduring philanthropy for a just and vibrant Sacramento region. Learn more at sacregcf.org.

EDCF accepting letters of inquiry

Letters of inquiry are still being accepted for two funds at EDCF, the Sierra Nevada Foundation and Pay It Forward Project Fund. The requirements are below, do not submit a request if you do not meet the geographic requirements or the focus requirements. Please submit no later than June 1.

Pay it Forward Project

The Pay It Forward Project Fund (a fund of the El Dorado Community Foundation) is asking for letters of inquiries from nonprofits doing community improvement projects as well as any nonprofit volunteer projects on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe, in Carson City, in Minden and in Gardnerville. Pay It Forward Project Fund is looking to support community volunteer projects, this may include projects benefiting the

environment, parks or assisting youth and/or seniors. The requests should center on volunteerism, giving back to the community and respecting our environment. To read the LOI Request in its entirety visit tinyurl. com/tee3uje6.

Sierra Nevada Foundation

The Sierra Nevada Foundation (a fund of the El Dorado Community Foundation) is asking for letters of inquiries (LOI) for funding from nonprofits in good standing that are working on protection, preservation and restoration projects within the Sierra Nevada Conservancy Map. To read the LOI Request in its entirety visit tinyurl.com/34cubvhj. For any questions about any of these grants, email Director of Grants, Programs & Community Impact Kathy Haven at kathy@eldoradocf. org. This information plus a basic grant writing presentation is available at eldoradocf.org/grants-catalog.

Lake Tahoe Commuity College celebrates 50 years

Eli Ramos Tahoe Daily Tribune

Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) celebrated a historic night by raising $40,000 for student success as more than 230 distinguished guests gathered for its 50th Anniversary Gala at the Tahoe Blue Event Center on Saturday, May 10. The elegant evening brought together community leaders, alumni, donors and educators to celebrate the college’s legacy of educational excellence and its enduring impact in the region.

In his remarks, LTCC Superintendent/President Je DeFranco reflected on the college’s evolution from humble beginnings — operating out of a former motel on Highway 50 — to its modern campus, which serves more than 10,000 students annually. He highlighted the remarkable milestone of serving over 125,000 students during the college’s 50-year history.

“From 11 graduates in our first year to more than 250 annually. LTCC now serves more than 10,000

individual students each year, and this fall we are ready to welcome 100 student residents to our campus for the first time. LTCC is indeed small but mighty.”

DeFranco recognized founding leaders Roberta Mason and Dr. James Duke, both in attendance, for their visionary roles in establishing the college. He also introduced current and former trustees, sta and community partners whose contributions continue to shape the success of LTCC.

A highlight of the evening was the announcement that the event raised nearly $40,000 for Lake Tahoe College Promise, LTCC’s signature scholarship and student success initiative. The program provides up to three years of free tuition, books and wraparound support for first-time full-time students, including residents of both California and Nevada’s Tahoe Basin.

“Nationally, only one-third of degree-seeking community college students graduate within three years,” said DeFranco. “At LTCC, our Promise students are completing degrees at a 50% rate — and we’re working to grow that.”

In a video message shared during the event, Promise student and LTCC Student Trustee, Dorian Guzman, away attending UCLA’s Bruin Day, reflected on his journey.

“The promise program at LTCC taught me how to advocate for myself and be my own cheerleader,” he said. “That support helped me get the classes I needed and ultimately be where I wanted to be.”

Current promise students in the audience were then invited to stand and be recognized.

The evening concluded with a video tribute to LTCC’s history and a celebratory toast featuring local craft beer donated by LTCC alum Chris Sidell, who specially crafted “Coyote Pale Ale” for the occasion, and anniversary wine from Boeger Winery in Placerville.

“Thank you all for being here to honor our past, celebrate how far we’ve come, and toast to the future ahead,” said DeFranco. “The future of LTCC is bright, thanks to all of you.”

For more information about the Lake Tahoe College Promise or how to support LTCC students, visit ltcc.edu/promise.

Call for Native American artist submissions for poster project

Traci Rockefeller Cusack

release

In partnership with the Union Pacific Railroad Museum, the California State Railroad Museum and Foundation are calling for Native American artists interested in collaborating by providing artwork for the upcoming Railroads in Native America Forum that will be held at the California State Railroad Museum in 2026. The Forum is an ongoing exploration of the impact of railroads in Indian Country. Originally initiated by the Union

Pacific Railroad Museum in 2019, the Forum provides a platform to discuss the interrelationships between railroads and Native communities. The 2026 Forum held in Sacramento marks the third iteration of the event and continues to center Native voices and perspectives on the historical and contemporary significance of railroads.

“All railroads run through Native American lands,” said Ty Smith, director, California State Railroad Museum. “Although the stories of the impacts of railroading in Native California are less obvious than in

Where art and tea make a great pairing

News release

El Dorado Hills Arts Association presents Art Meets Tea — a Perfect Blend from 3-5 p.m. at the Teaspoon in El Dorado Hills Town Center.

EDHAA has partnered with the Teaspoon Shop in El Dorado Hills Town Center to create a year-round Gallery. This provides a wonderful new opportunity for members to show their work. The Gallery has eight spaces 5.5 feet wide for eight artists to show three to five works of art. We are taking applications which put artists on a waitlist from which the top eight artists will be selected to show their work in the next cycle. Each group

Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

June 4

Join Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce and Homes for Heroes El Dorado County for the Networking After Hours Mixer from 5:307p.m. on the patio at Wally’s Pizza Bar in Cameron Park. For more information visit sscpchamber.org.

The Valhalla Tahoe boathouse theatre and outdoor lawn presents Nether Hour at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit valhallatahoe.com.

June 6

The Hwy 50 Association’s 76th Annual Wagon Train will stop in Pollock Pines for the Pollock Pines Community Center Celebration from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information visit pollockpinesca.org.

The Olde Coloma Theatre presents “Liars, Lawyers & Laughingstocks” ... or …

“Putting Coloma Back on the Map” at 7 p.m. and running through July 6. For tickets and more information, go to oldecolomatheatre.com.

Showroom entertainment at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe presents Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit tinyurl. com/9c3db54t.

Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “The Grown Ups” at 7 p.m. and running through June 28. For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre. org.

June 7

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host Thunder in the Park Car & Motorcycle Show from 8 a.m.

of artists will have their work in the gallery for a 2-month period after which the next group of 8 artists will then display their work.

Explore El Dorado Hills Arts Association’s new show of fine art in oil, acrylic, watercolor and pastel, from serene landscapes and captivating animals to colorful figures. Meet the artists, share a cup and dive into conversations about creativity. Whether you’re an art lover or just love a good cup of tea, this is your kind of afternoon.

The show will take place at the Teaspoon, 4420 Town Center Blvd. suite 110. Fine Art, Fine Tea, Fine Company. For more information visit eldoradohillsarts.com.

to 3 p.m. at Cameron Park Lake. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber. org.

Sew4Vets is participating in a Neighborhood Yard Sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 3166 Collingswood Drive, El Dorado Hills. Gorgeous quilts at discounted prices and other handmade items will be available available.

The Experimental Aircraft Association, Chapter 512, will host its Famous Pancake Breakfast from 8-11 a.m. at the Placerville Airport, 3501 Airport Road. Come enjoy breakfast, airplanes on display and old friends. Proceeds go to the Sunny Atkin Scholarship Fund for students of aeronautical related studies.

Join the Master Gardeners for a free public tour on the rst Saturday of each month, starting at 9 a.m. After the approximately one-hour tour, wander around the sixteen individual gardens at your own pace or ask docents for help and more information. May be closed for inclement weather or poor air quality; check before visiting: ucanr.edu/ sites/EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden/. Parking permits are required, purchase a $2 permit at any kiosk. At the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville.

Join the Assistance League of the Sierra Foothills for the Gardens of the Hills garden tour and fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the same time on Sunday. For tickets and more information visit assistanceleague.org/sierrafoothills.

The Hwy 50 Association’s 76th Annual Wagon Train will stop in Placerville around 3 p.m. at the Bell Tower. For more information visit

hwy50wagontrain.com.

Join Images of Hope El Dorado for its annual Picnic in the Orchard at 4 p.m. at the scenic Rainbow Orchards Enjoy an idyllic Spring evening with great food, local wines, live music with The Audities+, live and silent auctions, door prizes and a sneak peek at the 2025 Banners on Parade. For tickets and more information visit imagesofhopeeldorado.com.

Join the El Dorado County Republican Party at 6 p.m. for the Summer Under the Stars Party at Mohanna Family Ranch. For more information call (530) 417-0807.

Showroom entertainment at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe presents Donnell Rawlings at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit tinyurl.com/9c3db54t.

The Folsom Lake Symphony presents “Movies with the Maestro” at 7 p.m. and

other places, they are certainly here. This gathering gives participants the opportunity to explore, uncover, and give voice to these important stories, in all of their complexities. And because art is an important aspect of storytelling, we are excited to see how Native American artists represent railroads in Native America through artistry.”

In keeping with the mission of the project, the museum and foundation seeks an artist a liated with a Native American Tribe (preferably an artist connected to tribes in present-day California) to create original artwork

that will serve as the primary visual identity for the 2026 Railroads in Native America Forum. The selected artist will receive $1,000 as compensation for their artwork. The deadline to apply and submit artwork is May 31. Information about eligibility and submission requirements for interested Native American artists is available at californiarailroad.museum/events/ railroads-in-native-america-forum. For more information about the California State Railroad Museum and Foundation, visit californiarailroad. museum.

Affordable health screenings are coming

Residents living in and around Shingle Springs can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes and other chronic, serious conditions with a ordable screenings by Life Line Screening. The Shingle Springs Community Center will host this community event on June 10. The site is located at 4440 South Shingle Road in Shingle Springs. Special procing is available, call for more information.

Screenings can check for

• Plaque buildup in arteries

• Cardiovascular disease

• Stroke and overall vascular health

• HDL and LDL cholesterol levels

•Diabetes risk

•Kidney and thyroid function

• And more Screenings are a ordable and convenient. Free parking is also available. Call (877) 237-1287 or visit lifelinescreening.com. Preregistration is required.

Rattlesnake Avoidance For Dogs

Each dog is individually trained with live rattlesnakes and is personally trained by staff from HIGH ON KENNELS. Sponsored By Hangtown Kennel Club Of Placerville, CA, Inc. with assistance from Dalmatian Club of No. CA

Online registration is available & required to attend at http://www.hangtownkc.org pick your date and time

June 28 or 29, 2025

You’ll be at the clinic site approximately 40 minutes Cost $90 Per Dog CONTACT: CATHY KEELER — 530-622-6909 www.highonkennels.com

Stay up to date with news, columns, photos, videos and more at: mtdemocrat.com. Call (530) 622-1255 to subscribe.

News

Sunday at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information visit folsomlakesymphony.com.

June 8

The Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host the Thunder in the Park Classic Car Show from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.

June 11

The Valhalla Tahoe boathouse theatre and outdoor lawn presents Alice Wallace from 7:30-10 p.m. For more information visit valhallatahoe. com.

Now Watercolor Artists of Sacramento Horizons welcome all watermedia artists over age 18 to enter its annual open exhibition “Go With the Flow 2025.” Submissions accepted through June 21 at 5 p.m. For more information visit sacramentowatercolor.org.

The Stage at Burke Junction presents “Waiting for Godot” through June 1. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “The Reluctant

Dragon” through June 8. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Unseen” through June 8. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Marvin Lipofsky Blows Glass through Aug. 17; Black & Gold – Traditional and Contemporary Japanese and Chinese Ceramics through Dec. 31, 2025; and Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31,

2030. For more information visit crockerart.org.

Booth reservations are now available for the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce’s Business Showcase and I LOVE Film Mixer on June 27. For more information or to register your business visit eldoradocounty. org.

The Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series presents live music on the main stage every Friday and Saturday (plus additional weekdays) evenings from 5:45-9:15 p.m. through Labor Day. For more information visit tinyurl.com/3h88rmpb.

Join the El Dorado Hills CSD for the Certi ed Farmers Market every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Community Park. Enjoy a vibrant selection of locally raised meats, farm-fresh produce, freshbaked goods and handcrafted items from talented local artisans. The Town Center Farmers Market is back in action on Sundays in its new location in the

Experience maintenance-free living with the convenience of restaurant style dining, weekly housekeeping and

staff on-site. MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING Our dedicated staff provides attentive, individualized care with around-the-clock staff, transportation and assistance with daily activities.