Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025

Oktoberfest fun on tap

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene Local breweries rolled out the barrels for this year’s Oktoberfest celebration in downtown Placerville on Sept. 20. Above Burning Barrel’s Duncan Alexander of Placerville, right, fills the first two mugs with beer after tapping the keg for Tim Daniel of Pollock Pines, left, and David Coody, owner of Jack Russell Brewery in Camino, center, at the Main Street event. Oktoberfest featured beer, wine, food, live music kids games, a costume contest and the ever-popular Dachshund Dash. At left, Amy Sargent of Placerville sits at a table outside at Placerville Public House with her 2-year-old Dachshund, Daisy, who she said would be competing for the first time in the Dachshund races later in the day. See more photos on A5.

Mower blamed for Uphill Fire

Shelly Thorene Sta writer

Fire crews on the ground and in the air responded to a vegetation fire near the 5400 block of Uphill Road in Pilot Hill Monday afternoon. The Uphill Fire was caused by mowing, according to Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit public information o cer Wendy Oaks. The call came in at 12:57 p.m. on Sept. 22 and forward progress was stopped at approximately 22 acres around 2:30 p.m. the same day.

Cal Fire advises property owners to take caution when mowing. “When mowing, choose the cooler

Crackdown nets arrests, guns

Over two consecutive nights, Sept. 18-19, the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce and Sheri ’s O ce participated in Operation Folsom Blues 3.0, a coordinated narcotics-enforcement surge on the west slope and in the South Lake Tahoe Basin. Teams served pre-planned search warrants, conducted targeted probation compliance checks, and carried out directed interdiction in identified hot spots. The preliminary two-night results are: • 26 arrests • 10 firearms seized

• Methamphetamine: 157.2 g (approx.)

• Fentanyl: 11.5 g (approx.)

• Cocaine: 14.3 g (approx.)

The goal of the operation was to disrupt narcotics distribution, recover crime guns and reduce overdose and violence risk through coordinated warrants, targeted compliance checks, and interdiction guided by shared real-time intelligence. Both the sheri and the district attorney view this operation as a success and they emphasized that the results send a direct warning to drug tra ckers:

■ See CRACKDOWN, page A5

Photo courtesy of EDSO

Operation Folsom Blues 3.0 took guns and drugs off El Dorado County’s streets.

ESSENTIALS

Ronald James Vardanega

Jan. 7, 1959 – June 2, 2025

Helen Louise Poroli

March 30, 1922 – Aug. 29, 2025

Ronald James Vardanega passed away from cancer 6/2/25 peacefully at home and surrounded by family in Placerville, Ca. Ron was born in Placerville to Fausto Oliver Vardanega and Janet Lee (Leepin) Vardanega, raised in Camino, and graduated from El Dorado High School in 1977. Ron was an accomplished wrestler in high school, undefeated in league his junior and senior years and then competed on the Sacramento City College team. He completed his bachelor’s degree at UC Berkeley, followed his father’s footsteps to acquire a Doctor of Optometry degree at UC Berkeley in 1985, joining his father’s well established Placerville practice and later taking on the business as his own. Ron loved taking care of the community’s eye health needs but mostly enjoyed getting to know his sta , patients and families through the years, spending time with genuine interest to talk about what was going on in their lives. Ron volunteered at health fairs, provided support for the needy and represented local business interests such as helping with events with the Broadway Village Association. Ron met his wife, Lesley (Petersen), when they were whitewater river guides in 1984 on the American River, then marrying and settling in Placerville in 1990 where they raised their 3 children Kristen, Andrew and Laura. Having a deep connection and love for El Dorado County Ron was so happy to return to work and play in the area. He especially enjoyed sharing and exploring the Sierra Nevada and beyond with his family and friends. He attributes attending Saturday Ski trips as an elementary school student at Camino School to the beginning of his love for skiing. He learned to rock climb in high school, throughout his life continued to share this adventure with many friends, and has been credited for establishing routes in the area. Ron enjoyed exploring untouched areas of the Sierra and was well known for leading a group through a bush-wack, pushing bikes through forests to connect new trails, always embracing the di culty and humor that came with these adventures. He was quick to share gear, food, tips and conversation with friends and strangers on the trail alike. From 2009 to 2020, Ron dedicated himself to supporting and then coaching the El Dorado High School Ski and Snowboard team. He was a deeply supportive parent, approaching his coaching responsibilities with serious determination and competitiveness, while maintaining the lightheartedness and approachability he was known for. He genuinely loved the sport as well as the racers and their families, led on-hill practices, organized and fixed gear to contribute to the success and memorable lasting experiences of all involved. Ron will be remembered for his goodhearted nature, quickness to laughter, helpfulness toward others, skillful outdoor pursuits, adventurous spirit, and devotion to family and friends. He often said “it isn’t a real adventure unless something goes wrong”, “ski fast, take chances” (which applies to more than just skiing), and a quote from Hunter S. Thompson: “when the going gets weird, the weird turn pro.” He is survived by his wife, Lesley, and their children Kristen, Andrew, and Laura, his parents Fausto and Jan Vardanega, and his siblings John (Yeong), Karen and David. While we grieve the loss of our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend to many, his legacy and presence will forever be felt and loved. If you’d like to make a remembrance, please consider contributing to the Ron Vardanega Memorial Fund, set up through the El Dorado Community Foundation. The fund will help support racers in need on the El Dorado High School Alpine Race Team in his honor. Fund Link : https://bit.ly/ Vardanega. A Celebration of Life for Ron will be held Sunday October 12, 2025 at Shadowridge Ranch in Placerville. If you’d like more information you can reach out at ronvardanegamemorial@gmail.com

Ralph Edward Eshe

May 12, 1931 – Sept 8, 2025

Ralph Edward Eshe, at age 94, passed away from natural causes on September 8th, 2025 at his home in Camino, CA.

He was preceded in death by his father Alfred Eshe, mother Lillian Trust, stepmother Katherine Bakan, brother Richard Eshe, and sister Kay Trainor.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Dorothy De Rosie Eshe, son David Eshe, daughter Tina Rheault, granddaughter Christine Averett, sister Alice Nelson, step-sister Paula Sullivan and step-brother Alvin Eshe and many nieces and nephews.

He was born and raised in Glendale, CA and lived there for 38 years. In 1969, he moved to the Lost Hills / Kettleman City area. He moved to Camino, CA in 1973, where he lived until his passing.

He served in the Marine Corps, in the Korean conflict, from April 1951 to April 1953. He was employed by the City of Glendale, CA and the State of California before retiring from SMUD in November 1988. There will be a private family viewing before cremation, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the VFW or a charity of your choice.

Helen Louise Poroli, aged 103, of El Dorado Hills, CA passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025 surrounded by her family. Born March 30, 1922 to Wilber and Martha Cragg in Mabton, WA. Proceeded in death by her brother’s, Edwin and Kenneth Cragg, and her husband of 64 years Dante Poroli. Survived by her children, Shirley Wilkendorf (Richard), David Poroli (Janice), Gary Poroli, Donna Petersen (Tom), Phillip Poroli (Beatrice), Kathy White (David), Robin Duncan (Michael), twenty-five grandchildren, thirty-two great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.

Helen grew up in Vallejo, CA. Graduated from Vallejo High School in 1940. She worked at Mare Island Navel Base, before meeting her husband Dante. They were married in 1942. They settled and raised their family in Sacramento, CA before moving to El Dorado Hills in 1982. Helen worked for the State of California for over 20 years before she retired. Helen’s passion was her family, who will miss her dearly.

Services will be held at United Methodist Church, 2101 Zinfandel Dr., Rancho Cordova CA October 4, 2025 at 11:00 am.

Elizabeth “Betsy”

Krohmer

May 22, 1950 – Aug. 24, 2025

Elizabeth “Betsy” Krohmer, beloved mother, sister, and friend, passed away in Placerville, California. She was 75. Born to Leo Goldsmith Jr. and Beryl Goldsmith, Betsy grew up in New York. After graduating from Monmouth College in New Jersey, she ventured west, eventually settling in Placerville, where she lived for the remainder of her life.

Betsy dedicated her career to education, working as a high school librarian. She loved the students who visited the library looking for a safe space and a listening ear. In retirement, she shined through her involvement at Green Valley Church, especially through the Common Ground and Pastoral Partners ministries. She was passionate about providing opportunities for those looking for a hand up. She had a love for food, wine, and friends, and she embraced life with warmth and curiosity. Her kindness and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her, especially in the Placerville community that she was deeply committed to. She saw the image of God in the face of every person she encountered. She loved well.

Betsy is survived by her sons, Jesse Krohmer (Lara) and Daniel Krohmer; her cherished granddaughters, Adele and Zoe; and her sisters, Peggy Bertorelli and Claire Goldsmith.

A memorial service will be held at Green Valley Church in Placerville on Thursday, October 16th at 1:00 PM. Those interested in attending are kindly asked to notify the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Common Ground ministry at Green Valley Church or the CARES program at the Marshall Foundation for Community Health, causes close to Betsy’s heart. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Mary H. Jones

May 25, 1933 – Aug 25, 2025

Mary H. Jones passed away peacefully surrounded by family on August 25, 2025 in Reno, NV.

Mary was born on May 25, 1933 and was raised in Tulsa, OK by her parents Harry H. Hough and Mildred A. Cottrell (Hough). She was a graduate of Tulsa High School and obtained her nursing degree. For most of her life she was a registered nurse and radiology technician. After retirement she had many interests. She was Chairman of the Board for the Coloma Lotus Volunteer Fire Department and was instrumental in its creation. She was a member of the Grand Jury and an avid CASA advocate. She enjoyed traveling, visiting many countries and she sailed around the world twice. She also enjoyed gardening, reading, her many friends she had all over the world and her family.

She is survived by her daughters Susan J. Lewis, Donna V. Foster, Margaret A. Jones and A. Kristine Rankin, fourteen grandchildren, thirty two great grandchildren, six great great grandchildren and many step-children, step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and her constant companion, her dog Sugar.

She was preceded in death by her husbands William A. Jones, George G. Cary and Arthur W. Leitherer, her son David D. Jones, stepson William L. Jones, three grandsons and two granddaughters. A memorial service will be held to honor Mary at the Grange Hall in Coloma, CA on October 12, 2025 at 11:00 am, followed by a private family internment. The family requests in lieu of flowers please make a donation to CASA of El Dorado or another charity of your choice.

Paul Curtis Oswald

Oct 7, 1949 – Aug 25, 2025

With his love of God and Jesus guiding his way Home, Paul Curtis Oswald passed away on August 25, 2025, at the age of 75 years. He was a resident of El Dorado Hills since 1987. Paul was born to Harold William Oswald and Ruth Elizabeth (Reimer) Oswald on October 7, 1949, in Albany, Oregon. He grew up in Lebanon, Oregon. Paul, along with his family, were faithful and active members of the Lebanon Mennonite Church.

Paul attended Lebanon Union High School from 1963 to 1967. In 1966, he broke his high school’s shot-put record (set by his brother, Dean, two years earlier). His record remained unbroken for more than fifty years. In both 1966 and 1967 he set new school discus records. Paul received an athletic scholarship to attend college at Southern Oregon College, in Ashland, where he took up the hammer throw. He qualified for the NAIA Men’s National Track and Field Championship Meet twice, placing 5th in 1970 and 2nd in the nation in 1971.

In the fall of 1970, Paul was introduced to a fellow student, Judi Trowbridge, by a mutual friend. They began dating and soon realized there was a magical connection between them – LOVE! They became engaged in February 1971, and married on June 26, 1971. Paul graduated from Southern Oregon College in June 1972, with a degree in General Studies. In March 1973, they moved to Sunnyvale, California, to be closer to Judi’s family and new adventures in California. They soon relocated to a new townhouse in San Jose, to accommodate their growing family – daughters Melissa arrived in November 1974, and Jill in March 1978. Many happy family memories were made in that first home. With a desire to have a more conventional home, in 1984 they bought a single-family home in San Jose, where they lived until 1987. A love of the mountains and a strong wish to be closer to them guided their decision to leave the Bay Area and live where it was less crowded. A new home in the (then) little community of El Dorado Hills was the answer, and they moved their family in the fall of 1987.

Paul started his forty-year career in the Geotechnical field in San Jose in 1973, working for Terra Tech Consulting, as well as Emcon Associates. His jobs involved monitoring earthwork design compliance and taking soil core samples on construction and infrastructure projects. He also earned valuable experience in soils testing, that served him well during his career. After they moved to El Dorado Hills in 1987, Paul worked for, among others, Youngdahl Consulting Group in El Dorado Hills, California, Anderson Consulting Group in Roseville, California and Blackburn Consulting in Auburn, California. He finished his career at Geocon Inc of Rancho Cordova, California, where he managed the soils testing laboratory, before retiring in May 2013.

Earlier, in the summer of 1975, Judi’s parents had built a vacation home in the mountains of Sierra County, California, along the north fork of the Yuba River and adjacent to the Sierra Buttes and the Lakes Basin. They named it Tamarack. With Paul and Judi’s love of the mountains, it quickly became their favorite place to go when they could get away and was the main reason for their move to El Dorado Hills. Both Melissa and Jill grew up going to Tamarack year around, with their family, grandparents and friends: hiking and fishing in the summer and snowmobiling in the winter. Their adventures and memories spanned over 40 glorious years, for which they felt very blessed and grateful. Retirement brought more time together with loved ones, and time for travel. Paul and Judi took cruises to Alaska, through the Panama Canal, and around the Mediterranean, as well as numerous road trips to National Parks, Monuments, and attractions in the Western United States and Canada.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Judith Lyon (Trowbridge) Oswald, his cherished daughters Melissa Lynn Oswald of Fair Oaks, California and Jill Marie Oswald of El Dorado Hills, California, his loving brother Dean Harold Oswald (LaVerna) of Oregon City, Oregon, his nephew Je ery Dean Oswald (Dorena) of Oregon City, Oregon and nephew James Allen Oswald (Stacey) of Portland, Oregon, nieces and nephews of Judi’s family, and numerous grandnieces and grandnephews of both families. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Ruth Oswald. Please join us for a Celebration of Paul’s life on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Vintage Grace Church, 931 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills CA. There will be a reception at the church immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider a donation in Paul’s memory to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (www.theaftd.org), The National Aphasia Association (www.aphasia.org), or The Sierra County Land Trust (www.sierracountylandtrust.org).

SO LONG, SUMMER

Man dies in crash

Shelly Thorene

Sta writer

A Sacramento man died Saturday afternoon after his motorcycle collided with a pickup on Highway 49, according to the California Highway Patrol – Placerville. Robert Kovalenko, 34, was traveling southbound on Highway 49 on a Yamaha FZ10 about 1 mile north of Rattlesnake Bar Road, near Pilot Hill, when he crossed over the centerline into the path of a northbound Ford F-250 pickup driven by Steve Dillon

■ See CRASH, page A5

By conducting regular, comprehensive tooth cleanings that involve removing calculus and plaque (hard and soft deposits), the hygienist helps patients avoid tooth decay and gum disease. Just as importantly, the dental hygienist can teach patients oral hygiene strategies that help them maintain oral health.

This very important member of the dental team also screens for oral cancer and counsels about good nutrition that plays a big role in preserving tooth health.

Dental charting, taking x-rays, and reviewing health history are but a few of the other valuable tasks that dental hygienists are trained to perform with the goal of furthering patient health and awareness.

Our dental hygienists are oral

health care professionals who provide educational, clinical, and therapeutic services to our patients. Oral health is a long-term commitment we share with each patient and we encourage you to make us aware of any special needs you may have. We provide excellent clinical skills and state of the art equipment. Please call us today to schedule an appointment. Our goal is to help you preserve your natural teeth for a lifetime. We offer “Tooth Print,” which is an impression of a child’s full mouth. About the size of a small wafer, the impression is given to the parent/guardian for the family album or for ID for a missing child.

P.S. If patients have questions about their oral health that require a detailed explanation, they are encouraged to ask the dental hygienist.

effectively treat your neuropathy

feel sharp or shooting pains and most of the tingling is gone. I

have full balance and can walk without pain. As Dr. Mooney explained the treatment is not painful, nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.” – Neuropathy Pain Patient

of Pilot

Summer Fest 2025 hosted by the EDH Community Services District celebrated all things summer at Community Park

Saturday. Above, Cotter Mack, 2, of Rancho Cordova smiles as he sits with Pixie

Iris Sundrop. At right, Rylie Broom, 6, of Rescue, left, and Taylor Porter, 5, of El Dorado Hills hold hands and dance while waiting in line for the carnival games. Below, people grrove to the music of the Viva Santana Show.

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

Noel Stack Editor

El Dorado County residents following the proposed Costo project on Silva Valley Parkway in El Dorado Hills will likely have some reading to do by the end of the year. At a recent El Dorado Hills Area Planning Advisory Committee meeting, Coscto and project representatives shared the project’s draft environmental impact report will be released in late fall or early winter. Among the issues to be analyzed are the most pressing concerns shared by residents who live close to the project and/or have children who attend nearby Oak Meadow Elementary School — traffic, air quality and noise.

The most-recent proposal includes an approximately 165,000-square-foot Costco warehouse retail center with a tire center and customer parking (above and below ground) on the south side of Silva Valley Parkway on approximately 17.63 acres. The Costco gas station with 32 fueling positions and employee

parking would be constructed on the north side of Silva Valley Parkway on about 3.29 acres.

The remaining Costco-owned property on the north side of Silva Valley Parkway — once slated for an apartment complex and commercial/retail project — will remain vacant. “At some point in the future Costco will most likely sell that off,” noted Lynette Dias with Urban Planning Partners.

A traffic light will be installed on Silva Valley Parkway at the main

entrance to both the store and gas station.

The project also takes into account the county’s plan to extend Country Club Drive from its current endpoint at Bass Lake Road down to Silva Valley Parkway. That roadway extension will go between the fueling station/employee parking lot and the elementary school.

At the Sept. 10 meeting those opposed to the project echoed concerns heard during a well-attended March 2025 community meeting.

Serrano resident

PLACERVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME LOG

4:01

9:21 a.m. Battery was reported at a school on Canal Street.

10:17 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a library on Fair Lane.

12:24 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a grocery store on Broadway.

Matt McDonald, who said he worked in the development industry, noted the timing of the DEIR’s release ‚ during the holidays — felt strategic to limit public input. Dias noted the comment period for the DEIR is 60 days, giving residents plenty of time to respond.

McDonald also, along with others, questioned the location of the proposed Costco when another is just two exits away in Folsom.

“How do we know when this store opens, you’re not going to turn around and close

2:44 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Golden Eagle.

10:24 p.m. Battery was reported at a grocery store on Broadway.

Aug. 28

7:42 a.m. Burglary was reported on Cold Springs Road.

2:44 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Grandview Street.

4:06 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Marshall Way.

the Folsom Costco?” McDonald asked.

Costco representative

Michael Okuma said it’s not uncommon for Costco warehouses to be close together, adding the EDH site was specifically chosen because the Folsom Costco has so many members from El Dorado County and having both locations will relieve the overimpacted Folsom store.

El Dorado Hills resident Jons van Dooren worried the proposed 32-pump gas station will put other, smaller stations out

of business while at the same time have a negative impact on the hundreds of children who attend Oak Meadow. “Breathing this much gasses into a young person’s lungs for six years, that can not be healthy,” he noted in comments shared with the Mountain Democrat.

Dr. Heather Siefkes, who said she can see Oak Meadow from her home, said the pollution and traffic created by this project are serious hazards. Though she noted the DEIR will address the issues and offer mitigation measures, the pediatric physician maintained, “Our children deserve more than the minimum standards.”

A resident who lives off Saratoga Way said she was excited for the project if not for anything else due to the fact that it should relive some of the traffic on what she called “Saratoga Speedway,” which EDH residents often use to get to and from the Folsom Costco. For the latest updates about the Costco project visit engageeldorado. us.engagementhq.com/ edh-costco.

Aug. 29

11:38 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Turner Street.

3:38 p.m. Battery was reported at a gas station on Mosquito Road.

4:24 p.m. Battery was reported at the library on Fair Lane.

4:59 p.m. Officers booked into jail a person suspected of trespassing, possessing narcotics and unlawful paraphernalia and under the influence of a controlled substance on Fair Lane. They were listed in custody in lieu of $10,500 bail.

Aug. 30

8:21 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive. Aug. 31

2:46 a.m. Battery was reported at the shelter on Fair Lane.

Oktoberfest celebration takes over Main Street

Even Soy Sauce, a 7-year-old Pomeranian mix is dressed for the Oktoberfest celebration with owners Bryce and Karen Trueblood of Folsom, left, who attended the Placerville event with their friend Brianna Master of Placerville, right. Far right, Chip Holden signs up for the zucchini contest during Placerville’s Oktoberfest with several whoppers grown by family members in Folsom. Volunteer Aimee Lamoureux of Placerville, left, checks him in while Sierra Wildlife volunteer Eileen Jensen of Folsom, center, watches. Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

VIN number on the Department of Energy’s VIN look-up tool. The vehicle must weigh less than 14,000 pounds, have at least a 7 kilowatt hours battery and must have been placed into service starting Jan. 1, 2023 or later.

Other conditions include a critical minerals requirement ($3,750 credit) and the vehicle must meet the critical battery requirement ($3,750 credit.)

The taxpayer’s modified adjusted gross income for either the current year or prior year must be: $300,000 or less for joint filers and surviving spouses, $225,000 or less for head of household filers and $150,000 or less for other filers and the vehicle must be for personal use, not purchased to be resold. In addition, the vehicle’s manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) can’t exceed $80,000 for vans, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks and $55,000 for other vehicles. To claim the credit you must file form 8936 when you file your tax return for the year in which you take delivery of the vehicle.

The Drive Clean Assistance Program is a statewide program that offers low income residents up to a $10,000 incentive toward the purchase of an eligible new or used clean air vehicle when scrapping an old vehicle, or up to $7,500 when not scrapping a vehicle. In addition, DCAP provides a $2,000 incentive to help cover the cost of installing a charger or $2,000 to use at public charging stations. DCAP is overseen by the Community Housing Development Corporation and is funded by the California Air Resource Board. Buyers must apply and be approved before ordering, purchasing or leasing a qualifying clean air vehicle. Zero emission vehicles, including motorcycles, must cost less than $45,000.

The DCAP incentive applies to used EV’s that are eight calendar years or newer with 75,000 or less original miles. (The model year of an eight-year-old vehicle is calculated by subtracting seven years from the current year so the oldest car eligible in 2025 would be a 2018 model.) The grant does not have to be repaid if the buyer owns the vehicle for at least 30 months.

Charge At your Residence and Go Electric (CHARGE) is an El Dorado County incentive program which provides up to $300 toward

Crackdown Continued from A1

“Folsom Blues 3.0 reminds drug dealers that if you plan to traffic illicit narcotics, you are not welcome in El Dorado County,” said District Attorney Vern Pierson.

the purchase of a Level 2 electric vehicle charger for your home. The county also offers a $599 incentive toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new electric, plug-in hybrid or hydrogen vehicle.

Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment grants for businesses are also offered by the county. According the website, “Eligible applicants in El Dorado County only include: retail business operators, owners, and retail commercial property owners, cities, special districts, other political subdivisions and jurisdictions joined together by joint power authorities (JPA)s or memorandum of understanding (MOU)s, and nonprofit organizations.” According to Air Pollution Control Officer Rania Serieh the EVSE grant program is currently proposed to be updated to include multi-unit residential property owners and was to be presented to the Board of Supervisors on Sept. 23, after which the details will be posted on the website.

County grants are also available for infrastructure projects that “enable the deployment of alternative, advanced and cleaner technologies to support California’s air quality goals. These projects specifically install fueling or energy infrastructure to fuel or power-covered sources.”

Details about the program and The Carl Moyer Program Application for Infrastructure are found on the county’s website under Air Quality Grants and Incentives.

Other incentives that can be combined with the federal tax incentive are offered to Costco members with member-only EV incentives offering $1,000 for Gold Star and Business members and $1,250 for Executive members. A list of qualified vehicles is on its website.

PG&E offers a $1,000 rebate for preowned EV’s and offers two special EV rates for home charging. EV2-A combines your vehicle’s electricity costs with your home electricity usage and EV-B separates your vehicle’s electricity costs from your home and involves the installation of a second meter. Both are non-tiered, time of use plans which means the rate is based on the time of day the electricity is used.

According to Felt Maps, there are currently 112 chargers in El Dorado County, including 48 in El Dorado

“If you try to deal illegal narcotics in El Dorado County, you don’t know who you’re selling to — and you should always be looking over your shoulder,” added Sheriff Jeff Leikauf. The law enforcement leaders thanked crackdown partners — South Lake Tahoe Police Department, Placerville Police Department, California Highway Patrol and El Dorado County Probation — for their critical role in making this operation successful.

Fire Continued from A1

morning hours before 10 a.m. and avoid windy or dry conditions. Remember, lawn mowers are for lawns, not for dry weeds or grass, as metal blades can spark fires when hitting rocks,” its website states. Firefighting resources also responded around the same time to a vegetation fire in the area of

Crash Continued from A3

Hill around 5 p.m. on Saturday, CHP Officer Andrew Brown shared with the Mountain Democrat. Kovalenko succumbed to his injuries at the scene and the driver of the pickup complained of minor injuries. Another northbound Dodge Ram was also involved in the collision.

Kentucky Flat Road and Mosswood Road in Georgetown which burned .62 acres. The cause of fire is under investigation. Resources on scene of the fires included Georgetown Fire, U.S. Forest Service – Eldorado National Forest, Garden Valley Fire Protection and Cal Fire AEU.

DUI is not suspected, Brown confirmed; the cause of the collision is under investigation.

Brown said the autumn weather is perfect for road trips but he reminded the public to be safe and place their full attention on the road when driving or riding.

Hills, 44 public charging stations in Placerville. As of March 2025, the California Energy Commission reports that there are 178,549 public and shared private charging stations in California. The agency states that electric charging stations now outnumber the 120,000 gas nozzles in the state. There are several phone apps, including PlugShare, ChargePoint, A Better Route Planner, to name a few that help an EV driver locate charging stations.

Adam Clark of Cameron Park drives a 2022 Nissan Leaf and said he uses the free EV chargers at the El Dorado County Government Center on Fair Lane. He is able to plug in and walk to his workplace and said the battery charges from 15% to 100% in about six hours. He said, “It can charge to around 40% in three hours and it is perfect for my commuting needs.” There are four free, Level 2 chargers at the Placerville branch of the El Dorado County Library, two free chargers at the Placerville Station Park and Ride on Mosquito Road, 11 free Level 2 chargers at the government center, Building B, three at Building C and four free Level 2 chargers at the El Dorado Hills Library. More free chargers are located at the Red Hawk Casino. So far, according to Senior Air

Quality Engineer Cory Gutierrez, 892 county residents have taken advantage of the Drive Clean! vehicle incentive program since its 2014 launch. AQMD installed 54 chargers, which were free to the public, in 2014 as an incentive but these will soon be converted to collect a fee to offset the electricity pending board approval. Gutierrez said the new networked chargers will allow the county to better monitor the electricity usage and how much they are used by the public.

Due to the popularity of the incentive, Gutierrez said, “The Driving Clean Assistance Program closed applications earlier this month for this ‘no-scrap’ option to all except for residences with addresses that lie within a ‘low-income community’ as shown in the areas in blue on this map California Climate Investments Priority Populations 4.0. Applicants in these areas can still apply for the $7,500 ‘no-scrap’ option.” Parts of Placerville and surrounding areas in the county are within this community that can still apply.

For more information regarding EV incentives and other air quality grants and incentives check the county’s website: eldoradocounty. ca.gov/Services/Air-Quality-GrantsIncentives/Electric-Vehicles.

EVs Continued from A1

OPINION

California Matters

How Newsom channeled Jerry Brown 1.0 with his flip-flop on oil and gas

Over the last half-century, California has had seven governors — counting Jerry Brown twice — who varied widely in temperament, ideology and e cacy.

One variable trait has been consistency, whether their positions on issues have changed and, if so, whether they own up or duck accountability.

Brown, who held the position from 1975 to 1983, was particularly prone to policy pirouettes, most spectacularly regarding Proposition 13, California’s iconic taxation limit.

Prior to its overwhelming approval in 1978, Brown repeatedly labeled the measure a “rip-o .” After its passage, however, Brown immediately declared himself a “born-again tax cutter” as he ran for reelection that year. He also sponsored a state income tax cut and a subsequent spending limit ballot measure. He even ran for president in 1980 (unsuccessfully) as an advocate of reduced spending and a balanced federal budget.

There were other notable flip-flops during Gov. Brown 1.0, including one on taxation of international corporations that he blamed on receiving “flaky data” from the state’s top tax o cial.

Newsom’s governorship has resembled Brown’s rst stint: promises of bold action on issues ... followed by backtracking with excuses.

When asked about his frequent changes of position, Brown would cite Ralph Waldo Emerson’s aphorism that “a foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines,” implying that those with high intellects should be exempt from accountability.

Brown’s two Republican successors, George Deukmejian and Pete Wilson, made few promises other than managerial competency and largely delivered. They were followed by risk-averse

■ See WALTERS, page A7

Letters to the Editor

The great train robbery

EDITOR:

In the future, when great train robberies and robbers are being discussed around a campfire like Jesse James, the Dalton Gang, the Youngers, Black Bart, Murietta — these last two in California and the Bullion Bend Robbery in Pollock Pines in our own county history — there will be one that will always stand out: the famous robbery of the “El Dorado County Gold Train No. 504.”

It was so cleverly conceived and executed by the “Gangs of Five,” that few suspected it at all. Millions of dollars were quietly set up to be taken under the very noses of the people who were to be the victims.

Instrumental to the robbery was the creation of a “salary limitation” car named “Measure A.” It was passed by unsuspecting riders in 1997. Slowly, the heist began to move forward with changes and amendments without any rider approval,

apparently, which was part of the heist. More members of the “outriders” added on as years passed under the sleepy eyes of riders who were just along for the ride.

Under the watchful eyes of the “Three Desperadoes, Madam Minn and the Outriders from Dry Gulch” the heist moved forward, and millions were setup for future delivery into bank accounts.

Any attempt to bring this out in the open was met with indi erence to the riders of the train by the train robbers, if not just plainly ignored. It was done behind closed car doors, safe from the possible prying eyes of a rider waking up to go to the back of the train for a constitutional.

The robbery continues today and many of the robbers will ride o into the sunset with a “golden handshake” also for all their e ort.

Add to this the near bankruptcy of our “penal colony” from overspending and applying for and

The Rural Life

In the wake of the horrific, indefensible murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, one thing is clear. What political scientist Yascha Mounk calls the “hell machine of social media” is tearing us apart.

It’s not as if no one is trying to prevent it. Thoughtful leaders on all sides have been calling for unity. Among Republicans, Utah governor Spencer Cox stands out for his eloquence, urging us to “build a culture where we embrace di erences without letting hate divide us, where hope is stronger than cynicism and where forgiveness breaks the cycle of violence.”

JENNIFER FORSBERG MEYER

Problem is, social media is relentlessly driving us in the exact opposite direction.

“A cancer on our society” is how Cox characterizes it. “I can’t emphasize enough the damage that social media and the internet is doing to all of us,” Cox said on “Meet the Press.” “Those

dopamine hits, these companies — trilliondollar market caps, the most powerful companies in the history of the world — have figured out how to hack our brains, get us addicted to outrage … and get us to hate each other.”

You know how this works. Algorithms (which pick the content promoted to each user) are purposely designed to amplify the most extreme and outrageous posts because they maximize engagement. This, in turn, boosts profits for platforms like X, TikTok and Facebook.

That means the most extreme views (from the loudest and most divisive voices) seem as if they’re the most widely held views, when in fact they are not.

Most of us have been generally aware of this malign phenomenon, but until I did a little digging I didn’t realize just how bad it was.

More in Common is an

The more time people spend on social media, the more likely they think political violence is sometimes the right answer.

international, non-partisan nonprofit that strives to understand and counter political polarization and social division. The results of studies the group has conducted over the last five years are eye-popping.

Participants were asked whether they felt “violence is sometimes needed to advance political causes in the U.S. today.” Respondents who spent less than half an hour per day on social media agreed only 6% of the time. But those who spent the most time online — more than five hours a day — were 22% in agreement.

So, it’s a fact: The more time people spend on social media, the more likely they think political violence is sometimes the right answer.

Another finding: Democrats and Republicans alike vastly overestimate their opponents’ support for political violence. In one study, less than 4% of both Democrats and Republicans believed throwing rocks at an opposing protestor might be justified.

Yet roughly 40% of both groups believed that members of the other party thought such behavior could be justified — a tenfold exaggeration of reality.

As Mounk puts it, although most Americans don’t celebrate political violence even when it hits what they consider the “correct” target, “the minority of Americans who are consumed by their longing for chaos and violence are doing what they can to draw the rest of us into their warped logic.” And it’s not just social media platforms that are “conflict entrepreneurs.” Coined by Amanda Ripley in her book “High Conflict,” this term describes an individual or group that benefits financially, socially or politically from exploiting and intentionally inflaming divisions. Many of today’s most successful podcasters are conflict entrepreneurs.

DAN WALTERS

Democrat Gray Davis, who nevertheless was recalled in 2003, and replaced by Republican action movie star Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Schwarzenegger promised to shake up state government with tight limits on spending but quickly learned that he could not outmaneuver a Legislature dominated by professional Democratic politicians — nor persuade voters to pass his ballot measures. However he didn’t try to evade responsibility for his failures.

When Brown returned to the governorship in 2011 nearly three decades later, he was a much different

person. Not only was he older but he was less prone to flights of political fancy. He promised merely to address bread and butter issues such as the state’s budget deficit and its deteriorating highways.

That brings us to Gavin Newsom, who is — in a sense — Brown’s nephew from the decades-long intertwining of the Newsom and Brown families.

Newsom’s governorship has resembled Brown’s first stint: promises of bold action on issues such as single-payer health care, housing shortages, homelessness and climate change, followed by backtracking with excuses.

He has termed campaign promises such as creating single-payer health care and building 3.5 million new homes as “aspirational,” rather than doable, and blamed local officials for not attacking homelessness effectively. As Newsom enters the last phase of his governorship and appears to be preparing for a presidential campaign, ala Brown 1.0, he is navigating his biggest flip-flop.

A year ago, Newsom was denouncing gasoline refiners for gouging consumers and pocketing huge profits. He demanded that the Legislature help him crack down.

During the just-concluded legislative session, however, he and legislators acted to increase oil production in California. Meanwhile, the California Energy Commission has stalled proposed regulations meant to curb refiner profits.

What happened? The 2024 presidential election revealed popular angst about the cost of living.

Meanwhile, two refineries announced plans to shut down, possibly leading to gasoline shortages and much higher prices, which would backfire on a Newsom presidential campaign.

Bloomberg reported this month that Newsom and legislators are even considering giving one of the refineries millions of dollars to remain open.

“We are all the beneficiaries of oil and gas. No one’s naive about that,” Newsom said at a recent press conference. “So it’s always been about finding a just transition, a pragmatism in terms of that process.”

Sure it is.

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

taking money from grants. The “Three Desperadoes, Madam Minn and the Outriders from Dry Gulch,” being so successful at the train robbery of the 504 Gold Train, have broadened their activities into other ventures also.

All of this was made possible by a lack of conscience, common sense, compassion and fiduciary responsibility to the sleeping riders who will one day wake up to be a victim of the big heist. BRIAN DeBERRY Diamond Springs

Critical election, indeed

EDITOR:

n response to the letter to the editor titled “Critical election” by Les Francis published in the Sept. 10 edition, there is probably only one point that I would agree with: the election on Nov. 4 on Proposition 50 is “one of the most critical

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

AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net

AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org

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 CribbersWe Play - We Teach - We Have Fun Wednesdays 4:00 PM Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452

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.

SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started.

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.

SPORTS Diamondbacks stay winless after SVC opener

Mike Bush Mountain Democrat correspondent

For almost 2 minutes, the Union Mine High School varsity football team had a short-lived lead in its Sierra Valley Conference home opener against Liberty Ranch High’s squad.

The Diamondbacks, who were coming off the bye week, were hoping to build on its countered move against the Hawks. But Liberty Ranch pulled away and returned to Galt with a 37-8 win at Union Mine Stadium in El Dorado on Friday.

“They just kind of picked up traction,” said Union Mine head coach Brandon Pacheco. “They’ve got a really good offensive line. Their ground game was challenging to stop.”

The D-backs had beaten the Hawks during the 2024 and 2023 seasons. This was the second home game in three weeks for Union Mine (0-1 in the SVC, 0-4 overall), which saw Bear River post a 30-8 win on the same field on Sept. 5. Liberty Ranch (1-0 in the SVC, 4-0) jumped ahead on its first offensive drive in the first quarter. Running back Joe Lara took the ball on a counter play, cut to his left and ran close to the Union Mine sidelines to complete a 39-yard touchdown run with 8:47 on the clock. The extra-point kick was good for a 7-0 score.

Union Mine countered on its first offensive drive in the quarter. The D-backs topped off a 12-play, 66-yard drive when running back Fernando Armijo went up the middle of his offensive linemen on

a 4-yard run with 2:03 remaining on the clock.

Quarterback Nathan Gregson pitched the ball to running back Skyler Hartman on the 2-point conversion for an 8-7 lead.

“Just take what they give you and they were packing a lot of bodies,” said Pacheco of his team running the ball near the sidelines for most of the first half. “Some of those perimeter run plays were what we were consistently going to.”

But Liberty Ranch took charge with 45.6 seconds left in the quarter when fullback Andrew Quinn found the end zone on a 2-yard run. For an encore, he also ran back into the end zone on the 2-point conversion for a 15-8 lead.

The Hawks’ defense set up the next score.

Liberty Ranch, at the start of the second quarter, kept Union Mine’s rushing attack to four plays and a punt. The fourth play, a run on fourth down and 7 at the 50-yard line, led to a turnover on loss of downs.

Liberty Ranch concluded a nine-play, 53-yard offensive drive when Quinn scored on a 5-yard run with 3:55 on the clock. Lara ran the rock into the end zone on the 2-point conversion, upping the Hawks’ lead to 23-8.

After each team exchanged offensive possessions for most of the third quarter, Liberty Ranch’s defense rose to the occasion again, forcing another Union Mine turnover on fourth and three at the Hawks 20. This was the only time in the final

24 minutes of the game where the D-backs were inside Hawk territory.

“In a game like this, turnovers are always big,” said Liberty Ranch head coach Warren Schroeder. “We knew we were going to be in for a dog fight. Credit to Union Mine; their kids are playing tough.”

Three plays later, Lara scored when he took the pitch from quarterback Ryan Ogas, scrambled to his right and crossed the plane on an 8-yard run with 1:08 left.

James Rangel booted the extra point for a 30-8 score.

The Hawks added their final touchdown at the 8:06 mark in the fourth quarter. Running back Wyatt Corriea went into the end zone on a 16-yard run. The kick was good.

Union Mine makes the trek to Jackson to play at Argonaut (1-1 in the SVC, 2-2) in a conference game this Friday, which is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m.

Scoreboard

Oak Ridge — The Trojans started Sierra Foothill League action against Del Oro’s squad in Loomis on Friday. In a defensive matchup, Oak Ridge came away with a 12-8 win.

Quarterback Nick Johnson completed 11 of 24 passes for 184 yards for Oak Ridge (1-0 in the SFL, 3-1). Jasen Womack had three receptions for 82 yards.

On defense, Jonathan Grosfeld, a defensive back, had 13 tackles for the Trojans and middle

linebacker Brayden Molloy had 10. Oak Ridge is back at home this Friday to take on Granite Bay (1-0 in the SFL, 4-1). The game is scheduled to start at 7 p.m.

Ponderosa — The Bruins started Capital Valley Conference action against Woodcreek at Simon-Bruin Stadium on Friday. The visiting Timberwolves made the trek back to Roseville with a 24-7 win over Ponderosa (0-1 in the CVC, 3-2).

The Bruins had a combined 102 offensive yards. Quarterback Colton Ridgley accounted for the team’s only touchdown. Woodcreek churned out 275 total offensive yards; 160 rushing and 115 passing.

This Friday, Ponderosa travels to Fair Oaks to play Bella Vista in another CVC contest scheduled to start at 7 p.m.

El Dorado — The Cougars also opened SVC action against Argonaut, which left Placerville with a 31-24 win.

Quarterback Hunter Rupley had a big night for El Dorado (0-1 in the SVC, 1-3), throwing for 345 yards; he completed 26 of 37 passes. Logan Kruse had seven receptions for 134 yards and a touchdown, while Gerad Lemus was 9-115.

On defense, the Cougars’ Hugo Gallant had nine tackles. El Dorado makes the trip to Sacramento this Friday, taking on conference favorite Bradshaw Christian High’s team. The game is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 p.m.

Break Free Run is a movement to end human trafficking

News release

On Saturday, Oct. 18, 3Strands Global Foundation will host its annual Break Free Run, commemorating 15 years of community action, prevention education and survivor support. This year’s theme, More Than a Race, captures the heart of the event — uniting families, athletes, businesses and advocates in the fight to end human trafficking. What began as a local 5K run has grown into a powerful movement, mobilizing thousands of individuals over the last decade and a half. The Break Free

Run is more than just a race; it’s a platform for change, awareness and community transformation.

Since its inception, 3Strands Global and the Break Free Run have helped fund prevention education for more than 1.5 million students, educators and parents. This year’s 15th anniversary will highlight survivor voices, showcase progress and spark even greater momentum.

According to 3Strands Global founder Ashlie Bryant, the funds and awareness raised through the Break Free Run significantly further the mission and impact of the organization.

“In Sacramento County alone, more than 13,000 minors and adults experienced sex trafficking from 201520,” explained Bryant. “The news headlines are shocking and can be overwhelming. But by simply participating in the Break Free Run, our runners and walkers are making a difference by driving local action. They can show up, run and know that they are helping real people affected by this situation in our own community.”

Break Free Run

Date: Saturday, Oct. 18

Location: Lakeside Church, 745 Oak Avenue Parkway, Folsom

Time: 8 a.m. to noon (Race start times vary. All race registrants should arrive by 8 a.m.) Register: runsignup. com/race/ca/folsom/ breakfreerun.

All participants who register by Sept. 30 will receive a commemorative tech t-shirt and all participants will receive a bib and medal. More importantly, every step taken helps fund support for survivors in your community and prevention across the nation. Form a team with friends and family through the registration website — the largest team will win a prize. Those who can’t make the event can still support the cause as virtual runners through the website.

Fun with a purpose Bring the whole family! The Kid Zone is designed to engage, entertain and empower the youngest community members. An expanded Kid Zone will feature face painting, obstacle courses, arts and crafts as well as interactive safety education.

A Kids Fun Run for ages 2–10 is also planned.

Photo by Mike Bush

Union Mine running back Aidan Hausam (34) gets behind offensive tackle James Page (63) to open a running lane against Liberty Ranch’s defense in Friday’s SVC game.

CDFW anticipates good quail and chukar season

Katherine Miller & Peter Tira

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Get your boots and bird dogs ready. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife expects above-average abundance of quail and chukar for the 2025-26 hunting seasons.

California has three native species of quail — mountain, California and Gambel’s quail. At least one quail species can be found in every part of the state, offering close-to-home hunting opportunities for Californians no matter where they live.

California also hosts introduced chukar partridge populations that are native to the steppe regions of Asia and the Middle East. Chukar were introduced into California beginning in the 1930s and took hold in areas that most closely resembled their native lands — the steep, rocky terrain in the Modoc Plateau south into the Mojave Desert and Death Valley.

California is divided into three quail hunt zones. For the general hunt seasons, Zone 1 opened for mountain quail Sept. 13. Zone 2 opens for both mountain and California quail on Sept. 27. On Saturday, Oct. 18, all quail species and chukar are open to hunting statewide. The season runs through Jan. 25, 2026. Hunters may take up to 10 quail per day in any species combination. Chukar harvest is limited to six birds a day. The possession limit is triple the daily bag limit for both quail and chukar.

Rainfall is important for quail and chukar populations: It supports the insect populations critical for chicks and the growth of lupine, clover, chickweed, filaree and fiddleneck, plants common in quail and chukar diets. The winter of 2024-25 was drier than normal but followed two wet winters so quail and chukar should have experienced an above-average nesting season this year.

CDFW will again deploy wing collection barrels on select public hunting lands in prime quail habitat

Run Continued from A8

Marketplace for good

Local businesses, artisans, food trucks and community organizations are invited to apply to be part of the Break Free Vendor Marketplace. With hundreds of attendees and high community visibility, this is an

Letters Continued from A7

elections in California’s history.”

It is critical that Californians vote no on this gerrymandering proposition initiated by Gov. Newsom and the Democrats.

Please note these facts about Les Francis’ points:

• The gerrymandering done in Texas was legal; it was not in California, even though the left-biased State Supreme Court refused to acknowledge that.

• Proposition 50 ends the role of the voter-approved independent redistricting commission for at least five years, which voids what voters approved when they supported the creation of the independent commission.

• Supporters of Prop. 50 claim that it retains California’s independent

throughout the state. At these locations, CDFW encourages hunters to donate a wing from each bird harvested. From these wing samples, CDFW can determine age ratios that inform quail and chukar productivity. During the 2024-25 season, CDFW deployed wing barrels at 10 sites and collected 555 California quail wings, 31 Gambel’s quail wings and six chukar wings from 194 hunters. California quail productivity varied across the state. For Gambel’s quail, the sample size was too small to properly evaluate productivity.

The spring and summer of 2025 have been drier than normal and the risk of wildfire remains high. Wildfires can benefit quail by setting back the plant succession and creating a mosaic of vegetation types that support quail habitat. Larger wildfires are less beneficial to quail populations. Hunters are reminded to check their favorite hunting areas ahead of time for wildfire-related closures.

In addition to a valid California hunting license, an Upland Game Bird Validation is required for hunting quail and chukar in California. No Upland Game Bird Validation is needed for youth with a Junior Hunting License. The money generated from the sale of upland game bird validations/stamps is dedicated to upland game bird-related conservation projects, education, hunting opportunities and outreach.

In addition to public hunting opportunities available on many CDFW wildlife areas and some ecological reserves, CDFW offers a number of special quail and chukar hunts throughout the season along with private land opportunities through the SHARE Program.

For more information on hunting seasons and other regulations, visit CDFW’s Upland Game Bird Hunting web page. As a reminder, only nonlead ammunition may be used when hunting quail, chukar or any other species with a firearm in California.

opportunity to showcase your brand while supporting a powerful cause. Vendor Village and festivities will stay open until noon. Visit Break Free Run at runsignup.com/race/ca/folsom/ breakfreerun or contact Britteny Christner brittenyc@3sgf.org to register your booth by Oct. 13.

Citizens Redistricting Commission even though it cancels the commission for at least five years.

• Les Francis claims the Texas action was done behind closed doors, which is how the California proposition was done.

One party rule in California has resulted in the country’s highest unemployment rate, the highest poverty rate, the highest homeless rate, the highest number of businesses leaving a state, etc. Can we trust the executive and legislative majority in California who drew the redistricting maps of Prop. 50? I would much prefer to trust an independent commission.

Vote no.

Continued from A6

They use tactics like spreading rumors and conspiracy theories and amplifying small disputes. They frame complex issues in simplistic, “us vs. them” terms. This kind of binary thinking eliminates nuance, enflames tribal loyalty and demonizes opponents — all of which makes conflicts harder to resolve.

But that’s the point! Conflict drives engagement, which increases listenership, which super-charges revenue.

Just how successful are conflict entrepreneurs at their task? Very. In a January 2025 More In Common poll, Americans chose “united” as what they most want for their country. Yet Democrats think Republicans most want the country to be “traditional” and “Christian/religious,” while Republicans think Democrats most want the country to be “green” and “global.”

What can any of us do to bring what we want most — unity — to the forefront? We can start by denouncing divisive speech within our own party or group. We can outlaw algorithms or at least see

COMICS

CHARLES GOMES Cameron

Park

them tweaked to promote unifying rather than divisive posts. (For terrific ideas on how to do this, see Jonathan Haidt’s bestseller, “The Anxious Generation.”)

We can use social media less and other, more direct forms of communication more. (With email, for example, you’re talking openly to one person. With social media, you’re “performing” — often anonymously — for a group. It can make a terrible difference.)

On balance, social media does not encourage us to be social in a healthy way. In case you haven’t already seen it, I’ll give the last word to Charlie Kirk, because in this he was exactly right:

“When things are moving very fast and people are losing their minds, it’s important to stay grounded. Turn off your phone … and remember internet fury is not real life.”

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.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Yes, you have lugged a responsibility about as far as you want to, but there’s so much more trail ahead. You deserve a rest, some ease, a little luck. So when it comes, don’t hesitate, defer or pretend you don’t need this. Just take it.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Your body will give clear signals: tension, excitement, ease, discomfort. You don’t need to make a story around this or create reasons for these responses. Let instinctive wisdom cut through the mind’s noise. Obey the body.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Even when you think the right thing is implied, the rules are obvious and the logic is prevalent, you’ll still see a more successful outcome if you make your boundaries clear and your expectations known.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). The future scares you, but you’re more equipped than you know. The proof is in your past victories. Give yourself the pep talk you need. Cultivate the ability to speak yourself into courage. Such an ability will continue to serve you well.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’ve given so much, and though the world still asks for more, you are not depleted. Every ask makes you more resourceful, imaginative and resilient. You’re headed toward an opportunity. It will show you there are easier ways forward.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Juggler’s secret: Let the air do the work while the hands handle exactly what they can, which is always one thing at a time. No matter what’s thrown into your rotation today, you have rhythm and grace on your side.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Every interaction leaves an impression. The way you listen gives others a feeling. Your laugh gives them something to work for. The most casual comment sticks. After you leave the room, your influence will linger in fondness.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The wish for time off is really your soul asking for space. You can’t pause the world, but you can claim little islands of rest. Today, even five quiet minutes will restore more than you think.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Anything that’s been hard for you, you’ve done more than survive. You’ve turned it into your story, your style and the legacy you pay forward. You’ll work through tasks and problems of the day, inte-

Forsberg Meyer

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

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Our dedicated staff provides attentive, individualized care with around-the-clock staff, transportation and assistance with daily activities.

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Sept. 24

The League of Women Voters of El Dorado County will host an El Dorado Hills Community Services District candidate forum with candidates Wayne Lowery and Gary Kinghorn at 6:30 p.m. at 1021 Harvard Way in El Dorado Hills. Main Street Menagerie PRIDE Celebration! 7-10

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

Harris Center for the Arts presents “The Little Mermaid” at noon at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Broadway at Music Circus presents “& Juliet” the Broadway Musical at 7:30 p.m. and through Oct. 5 at the UC Davis Health pavilion in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Sept. 25

Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host a free Caregiver Support Group from 10:30 a.m. to noon. at Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills.

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host a Networking Luncheon at Red Hawk Koto Buffet with speaker U.S. Representative Tom McClintock from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information call (530) 6778000 or visit sscpchamber. org.

The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host its Fall Mixer at the Pollock Pines - Camino Community Center from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.

Joe Nipper Band (blues & rock), 7-10 p.m. will play at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

The Sofia in Sacramento will host Jacam Manricks presents Omari Tau Quintet at 6:30 and 8 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre. org. The Grass Valley Center for the Arts presents Get the Led Out A Celebration of “The Mighty Zep” at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.

Sept. 26

The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening at the Boot Barn in Placerville from noon to 2 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.

Join Mother Lode Rehabilitation for the annual All In for MORE Poker Tournament at 5 p.m. For tickets and more information visit morerehab.org.

1850 Wine Cellars will host Name That Tune, 2000s edition from 5-7 p.m. Form a team, guess the song(s) and band/singer (for extra points) and win prizes. For more information visit 1850winecellars.com.

Flat Busted will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight.

Be more colorful

with PAA's Open Studio Tour

Sylvia Coleman Placerville Arts Association

The Placerville Arts Association is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. With decades of creativity behind it, 2025 is shaping up to be a milestone year for local artists and art enthusiasts.

The highlight of the season is the Artists Open Studio Tour, a three-day event running Friday, Sept. 26, through Sunday, Sept. 28. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Tour guide booklets will be available at several Placerville shops on Main Street and Broadway, as well as at each studio. A downloadable map, directions and artist information can also be found at paastudiotour. com. Along with printed maps, signs will be placed along streets to help visitors navigate from one studio to the next. Most are only a few minutes apart.

Each studio will feature a wide range of 2D and 3D artworks, including ceramics, woodwork, artisan jewelry, oil, acrylic, watercolor, inks, mixed media, collage, fabric, quilts, sculpture and fine art photography. This year’s tour will also showcase AI-generated works. Visitors will have the chance to meet the artists in their creative spaces.

Refreshments will be offered at all 10 studios, but the real

draw is the opportunity to see original works by 40 award-winning artists from the Sierra foothills. Guests will be able to watch artists at work, learn about their processes and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces. As a thank you to attendees, the tour will also feature a Fine Art Giveaway. Visitors can sign guest logs at each studio to be entered into a drawing for one of 12 original works of art. The more studios visited, the more chances to win. Details are available in the tour guide and on the website, where the giveaway artworks can also be previewed.

The Open Studio Tour is a rare chance for the El Dorado County community to experience the places where local artists create and draw inspiration. Many of the participants are recognized with awards at both local and national shows. For more information visit paastudiotour.com.

"Passing Through Time" by Matt Harline

"Heart of a Parrot Tulip" by Annie O'Connell

Pageant celebrates inclusion, beauty, talent and resilience

News release

The Second annual Rising Star Pageant of El Dorado County will take place Oct. 11 at Union Mine High School Theater, highlighting the beauty, talent and resilience of individuals with disabilities. The event, which begins at 3 p.m., will feature a group dance, fashion competition and formal wear showcase.

Tickets are $10 at the door.

Organizers said the pageant is held in partnership with the Miss El Dorado County Scholarship Pageant Program, Exhilaration Station Family Resource Center and Allison’s AACs. The goal is to celebrate diversity, empowerment and inclusivity while raising funds for local nonprofits that provide vital community services.

Exhilaration Station, based in Placerville, is a traumainformed family resource and educational play center serving all abilities

throughout El Dorado County and the greater Sacramento region. The center works to strengthen families, reduce child abuse and neglect, and provide inclusive opportunities through workshops, camps, classes, kindergarten prep, community celebrations and open play sessions. It is the only family resource center on the western slope of El Dorado County.

Allison’s AACs, founded by local resident Allison Cooper, provides augmentative and alternative communication devices to nonspeaking individuals. The nonprofit has supplied life-changing tools to people on the autism spectrum and others with complex communication needs who cannot afford devices or do not qualify for assistance.

The pageant is designed to honor participants while supporting programs that make a direct impact in the county.

For more information visit exhilarationstation.org.

Bless the animals Camp Richardson Oktoberfest returns

Faith Episcopal Church invites all creatures great and small to be blessed in celebration of St. Francis of Assisi Day at 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5. The blessing service will be held on the church patio.

Along with the Blessing of the Animals, Faith Episcopal Church is hosting a pet food drive through Oct. 5. Donations will go to the Pet Pantry at El Dorado County Animal Services. Items can be dropped off at the church on Sundays or during the week between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Needed items include dry dog, cat, kitten and puppy food, kitten formula, canned kitten food, toys, treats, harnesses, collars, leashes and small round fleece cat beds.

“Even if you’re not especially religious, we invite you to join us for this fun celebration,” said Rev. Tom Gartin, rector of Faith Episcopal Church.

GROW FOR IT!

Pruning 101

Pruning isn’t just about keeping plants tidy, it’s about enhancing the health, structure and appearance of your landscape. With the right tools and a little know-how, you can promote stronger growth, reduce disease, and even increase flowering in your trees and shrubs. Effective pruning starts with having the right tools for the job. Hand pruners or clippers are ideal for small branches. Bypass pruners make clean, precise cuts; ratcheted pruners offer more power for tougher stems. Loppers with strong blades are great for medium to thick branches. Hedge shears are used for shaping

“Our animals serve as constant reminders of the divine creativity and companionship with which we are all made, and this short service is a great way to celebrate and bless their place in our lives. The love they bring underscores our responsibility to care for them, a responsibility that begins with joy and blessing.”

Attendees are encouraged to bring their favorite furry, feathered or fourlegged family member to one of the church’s favorite services of the year. Pet parishioners must be leashed or in a carrier. Larger pets, including horses and llamas, are also welcome. There will be plenty of space on the grass area next to the service location on the patio at the back of the building.

The practice of blessing pets on the first Sunday in October dates back 800 years to St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment.

For more information visit faithec.org.

Lee

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

hedges or shearing soft-stemmed plants. Saws are designed to cut through thick, woody branches cleanly, and pole pruners help reach tall limbs without needing a ladder. Battery-powered tools are wonderful, but always watch your fingers! The quality of your tools matters. Well-made tools are a smart investment,

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — Camp Richardson Resort’s Oktoberfest returns Oct. 4-5 with expanded food and beer options, live entertainment and, for the first time, a limited VIP experience.

The two-day festival, modeled after Munich’s famous celebration, runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. General admission and parking are free, while only 100 VIP tickets will be available.

Festivalgoers can choose from 11 beers on tap, including Bavarian favorites Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr and Erdinger. The menu features bratwurst and pretzels, along with food truck fare such as smoked turkey legs, roasted corn, pizza and tacos.

New this year, the VIP section offers exclusive beers from South Lake Tahoe’s Coldwater Brewery, a German-inspired buffet in a private beer garden and festival swag. VIP passes include admission for both days, a commemorative 44-ounce beverage boot, four drink vouchers, a T-shirt and tote bag. In keeping with its family-friendly reputation, the event includes contests ranging from beer stein holding to yodeling and dog-and-owner costume competitions. Winners will receive gift certificates for food, lodging and activities at the resort.

The Gruber Family Band will perform polka music both days with dancers from Lake Tahoe Shining Stars. Vendor row will

but they must be kept clean, sharp, and lightly oiled to prevent rust and plant disease transmission.

Before you start snipping, take a moment to plan — envision your landscape at maturity. Consider how tall and wide your plants will get, and how your plantings fit with each other. Once you have in mind what you’d like your garden to look like in five years, you’re ready to start pruning.

Removing suckers can be done any time of the year. These energy-draining shoots steal strength from the main plant and should be cut off at the base. Thinning crowded branches increases light penetration and airflow, preventing branches from rubbing, and thus reducing pests and diseases. Use heading cuts to control the height and width of trees and bushes. Cutting just above a bud encourages growth in the direction that bud faces. If major size reduction or redirection is needed, prune back to a lateral branch. This can strengthen the structure, slow down overgrowth, and shape the plant’s appearance. Try to not pollard a tree which is cutting branches off to be stubs. This creates weak connected branches

highlight handcrafted, locally made goods, and souvenir steins and shirts will be sold at the Camp Richardson booth. Festivalgoers are encouraged to use free bike valet service provided by the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition or park in the resort’s Eagles Nest campground. In partnership with the Tahoe Blue Beach program, the resort is going plastic-free at all booths this year. Refillable water stations will be available, and guests are asked to bring their own bottles. For more information and VIP tickets visit camprichardsonresort.com.

and doesn’t create an aesthetically pleasing plant. Evergreens respond well to heading cuts, but be strategic. Since where you cut is where growth stops, prune with the plant’s final shape in mind to avoid awkward or no regrowth areas. Always remove dead wood, and if rejuvenating, usually the oldest, widest branches are cut out. A hard and fast rule is to never prune more than one-third of a tree or bush. Proper timing of your pruning is critical for flowering shrubs and trees. Shrubs that bloom on new wood, like Roseof-Sharon, Hibiscus syriacus, Butterfly Bush, Buddleja davidii,

or Weigela should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Springflowering shrubs that bloom on old wood such as lilacs, forsythia, many hydrangeas, or azaleas, should be pruned immediately after flowering. This gives them the rest of the season to grow new branches and develop next year’s flower buds or even a second bloom cycle.

Pruning can dramatically enhance the beauty and health of your yard. With the right timing, tools and techniques, your garden will not only look better, but it will also thrive for years to come. 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) 6215512.

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

Phyllis

Pixabay photo

Proper timing of your pruning is critical for flowering shrubs and trees.

Courtesy photo

Kathy H., last year's Miss Rising Star, is proud to have fulfilled the duties of the office.

Courtesy photo

The two day festival will take place Oct. 4-5 at Camp Richardson Resort.

...to

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NEWSPAPERS IN EDUCATION sponsors

...And to our generous subscribers who donate their vacation credits to the fund.

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The Mountain Democrat’s Newspapers in Education program (NIE) was established in 2002 to provide and educational service arm for the newspaper. NIE’s goal is to assist schools, teachers and parents in developing future readers who can use the newspaper to enrich their own lives and participate responsibly in their community, state and nation.

Not only does the Mountain Democrat provide valuable information on a wide range of topics daily, it also can be used as a resource for teaching numerous skills to various age groups and in many different disciplines. It helps students connect classroom lessons to the real world around them and develop a positive and

Museums offer STEM opportunities

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

SACRAMENTO — Now that school is back in session, it is a good time to remind the community about the variety of STEM and education related offerings, activations and opportunities available at Sacramento-area museums. Experiencing or interacting with exhibits and activities outside the classroom is a great way to inspire young minds and enhance learning. A sampling of STEM and educationrelated offerings at local museums includes the following:

California State Railroad Museum

Rail Innovation in Action is a free online interactive program for high school students interested in realworld problem solving. In partnership with Lemelson-MIT, a national leader in advancing invention education, this year’s virtual program will focus on the community impact of railroads. Students will have the opportunity to engage with guest experts, work on activities and group exercises, and participate in career talks. Prior railroading experience is not required, just curiosity and a desire to learn. More information is available at californiarailroad.museum/RIA.

Crocker Art Museum

The museum offers several upcoming Homeschool Days on Sept. 18, Oct. 16 and Nov. 20 from noon to 2 p.m. Students can explore the Crocker as part of an experience designed for homeschool students and parents. This drop-in program allows groups to structure their own visit at their own pace while in community with other homeschoolers. Each month features a new theme and connects art to a variety of subjects and curriculum levels. For more, visit crockerart.org.

MOSAC

Homeschool Days return to the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity on Nov. 5 with a focus on space exploration. Students will enjoy a curiosity-filled day with hands-on lab explorations presented by Curiosity Collaborators, meet community experts, and explore

exhibits at their own pace. A full schedule and tickets are available at visitmosac.org/learn/homeschoolprograms.

Sacramento Children’s Museum

The museum hosts Pop Into Art on Sept. 24 for young children to explore and engage with art all day. Activities include printmaking, spray paint art, anime art and a fluid art finale. All activities are included with daily admission. For more, visit sackids.org.

Sacramento History Museum

Hidden beneath the city for nearly 150 years, Old Sacramento’s underground remains one of the capital’s most intriguing secrets.

The Sacramento History Museum’s Old Sacramento Underground Tours give school groups a chance to witness the city’s effort to survive devastating floods in the 1850s and 1860s. Students explore excavated foundations and enclosed pathways while guides recount true stories of devastation, perseverance and determination. Participants also try engineering feats themselves by lifting model buildings. The program requires advance registration and accommodates up to 25 students and adults per time slot. It is recommended for students in third grade and above. For more, visit sachistorymuseum.org.

For more information about upcoming activities at Sacramentoarea museums, follow @SacMuseums on Instagram and X, like Sacramento Area Museums on Facebook, or visit sacmuseums.org.

About Sacramento Area Museums

Comprised of nearly 25 museums in the greater Sacramento area, Sacramento Area Museums aims to raise awareness of local museums by giving the community the opportunity to discover the region’s art, history, science and wildlife treasures. The organization achieves its mission through cooperative promotions, strategic marketing alliances, and sharing knowledge and resources among partner institutions. For more information visit sacmuseums.org.

Expanding higher education access

Andrew Gardner Amador College Connect

JACKSON — In California’s Mother Lode, a quiet transformation is reshaping career education and access to higher learning. At the center is Amador College Connect (ACC), a nonprofit linking rural students with accredited institutions and workforce pathways.

ACC is not a traditional college. Instead, it serves as a hub that connects learners to community college programs such as Columbia College. Through guidance, local support and virtual access to courses, ACC has reduced barriers for students in a region where the nearest campus can be hours away.

jobs in networking and IT support— careers that offer strong wages and remote opportunities.

Through the Sierra Jobs First initiative, ACC is also helping revive the skilled trades. Alongside Columbia College, Cerro Coso Community College and regional industry leaders, the nonprofit is working to design training pipelines in welding, electrical work and construction technology—fields critical to infrastructure, wildfire resilience and sustainable development.

relevant lifetime reading habit. A study released by the Newspaper Association of America

Foundation shows data indicating students in NIE programs do 10 percent better on standardized tests and that significant increases in student performances occur, especially in middle schools. Donations from our sponsors allow our educators to order the newspaper for their classrooms free of charge. These sponsorships contribute to literacy and allow thousands of teachers and students in El Dorado County to learn from a living textbook, the Mountain Democrat, and develop a life-long reading habit that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Please show these sponsors your support for the program by patronizing their businesses.

One of ACC’s key strategies is promoting dual enrollment. Working with local districts and colleges, ACC helps high school students take college-level classes that earn both high school and college credit. The approach cuts costs, builds confidence and broadens options for firstgeneration students in an area where economic hardship has long limited access to higher education.

ACC also supports programs through the Sierra K16 Collaborative, which creates career pathways in high-demand fields such as early childhood education and computer science. Partnerships with Columbia College and local childcare providers are helping fill a shortage of early childhood educators, while computer science programs prepare students for

Five California counties — Amador, Alpine, Mariposa, Sierra and Modoc — face unique educational barriers because they are not part of any community college district. As a result, residents lack direct access to local campuses, making it harder to enroll in classes, receive student support services or participate in on-campus programs. Without district affiliation, these counties often rely on distance learning, satellite partnerships or nonprofit organizations such as Amador College Connect to bridge the gap. These efforts are essential to overcoming geographic isolation, limited infrastructure and reduced educational opportunities.

ACC’s model shows how rural communities can reimagine higher education and workforce training. Through local access, early engagement and regional partnerships, ACC is not just helping students earn degrees, it is helping them build futures.

For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

The Sacramento History Museum presents RCAF in Mictlán: 50th Anniversary of Dia de los Muertos on display through April 5, 2026. For more information visit sachistorymuseum.org.

Sept. 27

Join the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County for the Pruning all Plants 101 workshop. 9 a.m. to noon. Come to the Sherwood Demonstration Garden to learn how to prune just about any plant and then be prepared to walk through the garden to get more of a hands-on experience. Register at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey.

cfm?surveynumber=46403.

Join the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County for the Your Home Can Survive a Wildfire workshop. 9 a.m. to noon.

Learn how to greatly reduce the chance that a devastating fire like that in L.A. County will wipe out similar communities. The course will take place at Blackstone Community Clubhouse, 1461 Blackstone Parkway. Register at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=46408.

The El Dorado County Fairgrounds will host a Swap Meet offering

a wide variety of treasures — from antiques and collectibles to brand-new items. from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocountyfair.org.

Holly’s Hill Vineyards and Brewery will host Oktoberfest from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and again on Sunday same time. Indulge in a joyous celebration of Bavarian culture with highlights including seasonal Oktoberfest brew; King’s Meats beer brats, German potato salad and pretzels; and live festive music. Costumes are encouraged. For more information visit hollyshill.com.

Myka Estates, 3405 Carson Court in Placerville, is having its annual Shrimp Boil and Concert from 5-8 p.m. The menu is warm baguettes with herb butter; spicy Cajun shrimp and Lockford sausages cooked with potatoes, corn on the cob, mushrooms, lemon-butter, and loaded with Creole seasoning; and Bayou Brownies with Chocolate and Pecans. Music is by Born & Raised. Make reservations at tinyurl.com/4h86eeer.

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting at Moirae Brewing Company at 1 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.

Mastroserio Winery in Fairplay will host Improv Jazz with Ruggero and Friends from noon to 4 p.m. For more information visit mastroseriowinery.com.

Sierra Vista Winery will host live music with G-Ride from 4-7 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.

Hangtown Thrash Presents: Cemetery Legacy + Divine Defecation + Eternal Terror + Lysol Toast, 6-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

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

The Tahoe Games Mountain Sports Festival will take place Sept. 27–28 at the Lake Tahoe Amphitheater at Caesars Republic. For more information go to visitlaketahoe.com.

South Lake Brewing Co. will host Oktoberfest featuring lederhosen, family-friendly contests, live music and fallinspired food and drink. For more information go to visitlaketahoe. com.

The de Young in San Francisco presents the Art of Manga, Opening Day: A Conversation with Yamazaki Mari at 1 p.m.

The exhibition runs through Jan. 2026. To learn more visit famsf. org/exhibitions/art-of-manga.

Nevada County Arts Council will host The Business of Art 2025 symposium at the Sierra College Nevada County campus from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information or to register

The Grass Valley Center for

Barton Health acknowledged for substance use disorder care strategies

OUTH LAKE TAHOE —

SBarton Health has earned statewide recognition for its efforts to address substance use disorders, making the Cal Hospital Compare Opioid Care Honor Roll for the second consecutive year. The hospital received a “Superior Performance” designation, placing it among only 33 hospitals in California to earn the distinction.

The honor reflects Barton Health’s work across four key areas of patient care: safe and effective opioid use, identifying and managing patients with substance use disorder, implementing harm

reduction strategies and applying best management practices for SUD care.

Substance use disorder affects roughly one in seven Americans age 12 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Locally, it has consistently ranked as a top health concern in Barton’s Community Health Needs Assessment, highlighting the importance of accessible programs for patients and families.

To meet the challenge, Barton Health has developed a range of innovative strategies, including:

• Medication-assisted treatment: Integrated into primary and behavioral health care and recently

At

Our

expanded to address alcohol use disorder.

• Substance use coordinators: Two dedicated staff members guide patients through care, connect them with resources and ensure follow-up.

• Opioid stewardship committee: A multidisciplinary team promotes safe prescribing and non-opioid pain management alternatives.

• Harm reduction and education: Community outreach, safe prescribing initiatives and wider access to naloxone (NARCAN Nasal Spray) to prevent opioid overdoses. “Addressing substance use disorder requires a collaborative, patient-

centered approach,” said Dr. Jacob Marquette, a board-certified addiction medicine specialist. “At Barton, we bring together medical providers, behavioral health specialists and substance use coordinators to ensure patients get the right care at the right time. This multi-modal team approach helps our patients and their families know they don’t have to face recovery alone.” Barton Health said it remains committed to building safer, healthier communities through evidence-based care, education and outreach.

For more information on substance use disorder treatment and recovery services, visit BartonHealth.org. Know Continued from B5

p.m. For more information visit thecenterforthearts. org.

The Sacramento Zoo will host its Twilight Safari Gala fundraiser from 5:30-9 p.m. For more information visit saczoo.org.

Wild Night — A Van Morrison tribute will perform at 7 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.

Sept.

28

Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host live music with Listen Hear Band. For more information visit shadowranch.com.

FNS Productions Presents: Queer Community Social, 1-3 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

The Grass Valley Center for the Arts presents Two Pianos featuring Vijay Venkatesh & Eva Schaumkell a Music in the Mountains Production at 2 p.m. For more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.

Utsav Sacramento presents Kavita Krishnamurthy Nite at 7 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Now

Golf Tourney at X Golf in the EDH Town Center on Nov. 1. For tickets and more information visit thecenternow.org.

Imagination Theatre at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents “Blithe Spirit” through Oct. 5. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.

R-25 Theater Company presents “The Outsider” through Oct. 5. For tickets and more information visit r25theater.org.

California Stage in Sacramento presents “The Lehman Trilogy” through Sept. 28. For tickets and more information visit calstage.org.

Free tickets are available for the United States Air Force Band of the Golden West performing at the Harris Center for the Arts on Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Arts, Letters, and Power, Van Dyck and the Portrait Print through Oct. 12; Cara and Diego Romero, Tales of Futures Past through Oct. 12; Black & Gold – Traditional and Contemporary Japanese and Chinese Ceramics through Dec. 31, 2025; Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030; and A Taste of Beauty, Spoons of Africa from the collection of Richard Ulevitch through Jan. 11, 2026 For more information visit crockerart.org.

California Railroad Museum presents the Restored No. 9 Steam Locomotive and companion Exhibit are on display inside the historic roundhouse through January 2026. For tickets and more information visit californiarailroad.museum.

The 2025 Toys for Tots El Dorado County/ Placerville campaign officially starts Oct. 1 and the iconic Toys for Tots campaign donation containers will start arriving at businesses throughout the county. The first in-person registration will take place Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Building, 130 Placerville Drive. For further Registration information and documentation requirements visit placerville-ca.toysfortots.org.

Pleasant grove Middle School PTO is looking for vendors for its Holiday Makers Market happening on Nov. 15, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information or to apply visit tinyurl.com/mv7xy29s.

Applications are open to join the Placerville Public Art Committee. The new committee will include seven members representing the community, arts, design and local history. To learn more visit artsandcultureeldorado.org/public-art-committeeapplication.

Applications are now open for Folsom Lake Symphony’s Young Artist Competition with a Sept. 30 deadline. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony.com.

Registration is now open for The Center for Violence Free Relationships’ annual Drive Fore Change

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento hosts Art Rx, Docent led discussions for those with chronic pain and their friends, family and caregivers, second and fourth Saturdays at 11 a.m.; Meet Me at the Museum: tours designed for visitors with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, using art observation and conversation to foster engagement and social interaction, second Fridays at 11 a.m.; and Highly Descriptive Tours, 50-minute tours with detailed verbal descriptions and guided discussion for blind or low-vision individuals and their guests, fourth Fridays at 1 p.m. For more information visit crockerart.org.

The Master Gardener public office is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon at 311 Fair Lane, Placerville. Can’t come in person? Call (530) 621-5512 and leave a voicemail or email mgeldorado@ucanr.edu.

The Mills Station Arts and Culture Center in Rancho Cordova hosts Live Model Drawing classes every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. For more information visit rcmacc.org.

life safety features, mechanical systems, material testing, and commissioning. The selected firm should have experience in the design of similar facilities and a demonstrated track record of successful design-build project delivery. Respondents are advised to clearly state in their proposals the specific individuals that will be available for this project and their individual experience and expertise.

CDCR anticipates selecting a firm to provide the required architectural and engineering services for both institutions, solicited through this RFQ. Services may be required for the projects beginning as early as January 2026. Timely performance by the Consultant shall be critical to meeting CDCR’s projected facility needs. A Notice to Proceed for Engineering and Design Services for this project is subject to budgetary, legislative, and control agency approval of the proposed projects. CDCR strongly encourages Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises and Small Business participation. A pre-proposal conference WILL NOT be conducted. To be considered for selection,

firms must submit Statements of Qualifications to: California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Facility Planning, Construction and Management Division Project Management Branch 9838 Old Placerville Road, Suite B Sacramento, CA 95827 Attention: Adriana Perez Submittal Deadline: September 24, 2025 by 3:00 p.m. All questions regarding this RFQ shall be emailed directly to Adriana Perez at Adriana.Perez@cdcr.ca.gov , no later than 3:00 p.m. on August 26, 2025. Interested firms may obtain a Request for Qualifications package by downloading it from the internet at http://www.caleprocure.ca.gov/ . 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24/25 CNS-3958748# THE MOUNTAIN DEMOCRAT 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24 15042 AMENDED ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV1323 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Elana Wright filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: ELANA WRIGHT Proposed name: ELANA CHALOUX 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the

petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: OCTOBER 3, 2025, 8:30 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder

“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.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7TH 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

The lobster food truck is coming to Ponté Palmero for lunch. Buy yours fresh!