Labor Day turned laborious for local firefighters when a vegetation fire broke out o Sweet Valley Road in Rescue Monday afternoon. Crews with the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado, Rescue Fire Department and El Dorado County Fire Protection District, as well as other agencies, responded to the Valley Fire, keeping the wildland blaze to 16 acres. Firefighters, working in near 100-degree heat, battled on the ground and in the air to contain flames that threatened nearby homes. As of Tuesday morning, Cal Fire reported the fire was 66% contained with forward progress stopped. No structures were reported
damaged or destroyed. Shortly after the fire started El Dorado County sheri ’s o cials announced a mandatory evacuation order for residents living on Sweet Valley Road, Hickok Road, Sands Road, Rough Ridge Road and later Kanaka Valley Road. Evacuation warnings were put in place for Deer Valley Road and Starbuck Road.
The areas under mandatory evacuation order included Fat Kitty City Humane Society, which took to social media to ask for help housing its cats. Fortunately the order was downgraded to a warning before the felines headed to temporary homes.
“We had many of our cats ready in carriers, preparing them to go to a safer spot, when we were advised that
Take a journey to the bottom of Lake Tahoe
Jessica Weaver News release
INCLINE VILLAGE,
Jo Carrerow Mountain Democrat correspondent
Most requests for grants this year were covered by the El Dorado County Veterans A airs Commission, but others didn’t make the cut, according to Chair Robert Reynolds who presented an annual report to the Board of Supervisors on Aug. 26. Reynolds highlighted organizations included in the annual $175,000 allocation of county Transient Occupancy Tax funds, as well as those that didn’t qualify.
Mini grants for 2024 were approved for El Dorado Post 119, American Legion, $10,000; Gilmore Hero Foundation, $10,000; Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10165, $10,000; and VFW Sierra Nevada Post
2680, $10,000. Not approved for 2024 were: Calvary Chapel Food Ministry, $7,000; Center for Post Traumatic Growth, $10,000; and Shingle Springs Community Center, $10,000. Reynolds explained sometimes applicants denied because the number of veterans that are served by the grants can’t be determined.
El Dorado Community Foundation vets the 501(c)(3) applications.
There are two types of allocations, according to Reynolds, and the process starts with the mini grants.
“We actually go through the mini grants and then we have a hard yearly copy,” Reynolds said. “What happens is we’ll look at the mini grants and if they’re doing a good job sending in all the reports and things like that as necessary we move those to a yearly grant. That way the county takes over at that time.”
Fiscal year 2023-24 annual TOT grants awarded funding for Lake Tahoe Community College, $6,000; Snowline Hospice, $25,000; El Dorado County Veterans Alliance, $10,000; Sierra Chaplaincy, $4,000; Military Family Support Group-EDVR (Enlisted Distribution and Verification
PLACE
Nev. — On Friday, Sept. 5, the Tahoe Fund and Restoring the Lake Depths Foundation will livestream an ROV’s journey to the bottom of Lake Tahoe, giving everyone the opportunity to watch in real time as it reaches a depth of 1,570 feet.
“Few people have had the opportunity to explore what’s under the surface of Lake Tahoe, the second deepest lake
Dave Warren sees a bright future for Placerville
Andrew Vonderschmitt
Features editor
Dave Warren’s story is one of community, family and a deep commitment to public service.
A long-time Placerville resident, Warren will take up the mantle of Placerville city manager in October.
Born in Alameda, Warren moved with his family to Placerville in 1978 when he was 12 years old. His parents, who owned a construction company, saw a growing opportunity in the area and decided to make the move.
“It was much quieter up here. People were very friendly and it was great,” Warren recalled fondly.
He spent his high school years at Ponderosa High School, where he was deeply involved in the electronics program and earned college credit. His early interest in electronics was replaced by an unexpected turn toward accounting, sparked by a suggestion from community college counselor David Zelinsky.
Warren attended Cosumnes River College, which he recalled as being a great experience.
“We just called it UBR;
university behind Rally’s,” he quipped.
Accounting was a field that seemed “recession-proof” to him and, importantly, “It clicked.”
After transferring to California State University, Sacramento, Warren began his career in local government, initially working part-time for the city of Placerville while finishing his degree.
“I had no plans of a long-term career with the city,” he admitted.
“It was just an opportunity to get some hours and experience.”
However, he quickly found his place. By 1994, he was working as an accounting assistant and gradually took on more responsibilities.
“I was probably underqualified, but I learned a lot and excelled at it,” Warren said.
Warren worked at the city until 1998, during which time he earned his bachelor’s degree. His next move took him to the Gold Trail School District, where he became chief fiscal o cer at the age of 32.
“It was a great place for me to learn,” he recalled. “I achieved my management wings there.”
In 2002, the city of Placerville
created an assistant finance director position, which Warren quickly applied for and secured. By 2004, he was appointed finance director. Over the years, he has seen the city’s finances evolve and experienced its ups and downs, especially during times of economic uncertainty. Throughout his career, Warren has managed a healthy work-life balance. He and his wife, Julie, married in 1989 after a whirlwind courtship.
The two met in 1988 when he was driving near Thrifty’s on
■ See WARREN, page A2
DAVE WARREN
■ See LIVESTREAM , page A10
ESSENTIALS
OBITUARIES
Obituaries on this page are written and paid for by the families or funeral homes. They are edited minimally by the Mountain Democrat. To submit an obituary, call (530) 622-1255, e-mail obits@mtdemocrat.net, fax (530) 344-5092, or visit mtdemocrat.com under “Submission Forms” at the bottom of the website. Include contact information with all submissions.
Jackie McClellan
May 8, 1932 – July 5, 2025
Jackie McClellan passed away peacefully July 5, 2025 at the Masonic Home in Union City, California. She was born May 8, 1932 to Wallace Ballinger and Jeanette (Christopher) Ballinger in Percival, Iowa. She was proceeded in death by her loving husband John M. McClellan. They loved each other deeply and were inseparable until his death December 14, 2020. Jackie is survived by her children Kathleen (Ron) Edeal, Michael (Pat) McClellan, Kathy (Rick Buteyn) Karnitz, and Kim Quadros. She also leaves behind several grand, great, and great-great grandchildren.
She was active in Tabor High in Iowa as a basketball player and marching band drum major. She led the marching band when Harry S. Truman visited Iowa. She was supportive in all ways to her children: cooking and hosting for many gatherings, sewing, and leading school and scouting groups. She supported her husband in every way as well: secretarial, accounting, nutritional support, and most of all unending love. She was a loving person and well loved. A special thank you to the support Jackie received from the people at the Masonic Home and Grace and Glory Hospice.
CONTACT US
Of ce Hours: Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. (530) 622-1255 / Fax: (530) 622-7894
Toll-Free from El Dorado Hills: (888) 622-1255 Chief Operating Officer
T. Burt McNaughton (530) 344-5055 tbmcnaughton@mtdemocrat.net
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Warren Continued from A1 Broadway with his roommate at the time.
“Matt says, ‘Oh, I gotta introduce you to Julie,’” Warren recalled. “And she was looking all cute.”
Julie had just come from the ice cream parlor.
“I said, ‘What flavor is that ice cream?’” Warren said, “And she was like, ‘Here, you want a bite?’ And the rest is history.”
The couple eloped less than a year later to Tahoe.
“Well, some people call it eloping, whatever you want to call it,” he said. “We were playing in the snow and I just proposed to her.”
Spoiler, she said, “Yes.” They immediately went and bought rings and drove to Tahoe, where they were married at the Chapel of the Bells the next day. The couple had a more formal wedding later in Camino for family and friends. But, according to Warren, at the time they didn’t want to wait to make it o cial.
“We just knew,” he said. “We loved each other and we could do all the things we wanted to do along the way.”
Together, they raised three sons: Nick, born in 1994, Landon in 1996 and Jack in 1999.
Julie, who moved to Placerville in 1980, has had a varied career, from coaching volleyball to working as a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines. Dave and Julie, now empty-nesters, are avid travelers and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
“We like to do road trips,” he said, mentioning a recent 1,900-mile journey along the California coast.
With his long tenure in Placerville and his leadership role at City Hall, Warren now looks to the future. He sees the city’s vibrant community and business environment as major assets, but he is also keenly aware of challenges the city faces.
“We’ve had a couple of rough budget years; 56% of our general fund comes from sales tax,” he said. “As the economy fluctuates, so does our budget.”
Warren’s focus is on economic development, aiming
Commission Continued from A1
Report), $8,000; Only Kindness, $15,000; El Dorado Food Bank, $10,000; El Dorado Community Foundation for TOT Mini-Grant administration, $76,000; and Veteran Services general trainee, $21,000.
In fiscal year 2024-25, proposed annual TOT grants to be awarded were the same amounts to each organization as in FY 2023-24, except the El Dorado Community Foundation’s proposed funding was reduced from $76,000 to $59,803 and the Veterans Services o ce assistant’s proposed funding was increased from $21,000 to $37,197.
“What happened was the Veteran Services general trainee position that was funded through the TOT was an extra help position, to help someone obtain the skills necessary to promote to a veteran services representative,” Assistant Director of Human Services Timalynn Jaynes said.
But the position was limited to 980 hours annually “so they weren’t able to obtain the minimum qualifications to promote to the VSR,” she continued, explaining they allocated that money to an o ce assistant position, which helps with outreach and engagement.
An additional $90,000 was allocated this year to fund a senior veteran service representative position in the Veterans Services Division of the Health and Human Services Agency. Jaynes explained this was in addition to the funds allocated in 2024-25 for the o ce assistant.
Reynolds thanked the board for approving the grant funding for the last six years.
“From 2020-21 through 202425 you have allowed us to spend $526,000,” Reynolds said. “On the mini grant side, we’ve spent $557,924, and that takes us from the onset of the Veterans A airs Commission through this year. So that’s $1,083,924, and I’d like to thank you very much.”
Reynolds cited the commission’s accomplishments. One of the services TOT allotment funds pay for is the Transportation Committee, which began in 2024.
to bring more businesses and strengthen the ones already in place. A key goal is the development of more hotel space, including attracting a name-brand hotel.
“There’s a huge opportunity,” he said. “People come here for events, recreation and agri-tourism, but they often leave because there aren’t enough places to stay.”
Warren is also looking at vacant commercial properties as potential sites for new businesses. Infrastructure projects, like the city’s broadband initiative, are another priority.
“It’s a win-win,” he said. “Not only will it provide high-speed internet at competitive rates, but it will also attract entrepreneurs who want to work from home.”
Warren also emphasized the importance of local roads and transportation improvements, such as the Placerville Drive Connectivity Project, which will begin this month.
Warren is committed to providing high-quality service to Placerville residents, and he emphasized transparency in city government.
“We need to communicate more with the public about what we’re working on,” he said. “I want to provide weekly updates so people know where we are on projects and initiatives.”
Looking ahead, Warren said he’s confident Placerville will continue to thrive.
“We have a great community,” he said. “Our people are engaged, and we’re focused on the future. There’s a lot of work to do, but I’m excited about what’s to come.”
As Warren steps into his new role, he remains deeply connected to the community that helped shape him.
“Placerville has been a great place to raise a family,” he said. “It’s where I met my wife, started my career and now it’s where I’m helping guide its future.”
include the Education and Employment Committee, which reviews and supports Folsom Lake and Lake Tahoe community colleges to provide supplies, books, travel and other veterans’ needs when seeking higher education.
“They provide housing for the veterans down there if it’s available. They watch out for them,” Reynolds said.
Each year in September the Stand Down is held at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Placerville, during which veterans can access various services as well as information on services outside the county they and their families may be eligible for.
This year’s Stand Down will be held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday, Sept. 29.
Social Media is a proposed committee on the revised by-laws. The VAC currently has a Facebook page and Reynolds said they’re working on getting on Instagram. The Facebook page reaches more than 1,410 followers.
“I hope to reach 2,000 by 202526,” Reynolds said.
Other events and accomplishments during 202324 were the Veterans Memorial Building repairs after the flood of 2023 caused $15,000 in flood damage and an Eagle Scout Project for honoring fallen soldiers was completed and is on display at the building.
Since no veteran was proposed to the commission to be Veteran of the Year in 2024, “we made a decision to use David Zelinsky as the Senior of the Year,” Reynolds said.
Zelinsky worked to assist the homeless population and veterans in the community and provided countless hours to the support of veterans in the Veterans Treatment Court Program, according to the presentation.
Reynolds said the only challenge facing the VAC is ongoing discord between the commission and local veterans organizations.
U.S. Navy Veteran Kris Payne and Gina Posey, secretary for the Taxpayers Association of El Dorado County and alternate public member for LAFCO (Local Agency Formation Commission), both said they support Save the Graves.
“I was there on Memorial Day and a lot of work needs to be done, and everything grows back, and so if we could formalize something with the Veterans A airs to help our cemeteries for our veterans I think that would be really honorable,” Posey said.
She also said she supports the Shingle Springs Community Center, which had been denied a mini grant.
“I now understand more of what the criteria was, and we’ll make sure to update our application to make it very clear how many veterans come to our center and we do o er a free membership to veterans who come to our center,” Posey said.
Reynolds also chairs the Veterans A airs Transient Occupancy Tax Committee.
“We’re responsible for allocating the funds and handling the fund that the board deems to us for the year,” Reynolds said.
Supervisor Brooke Laine asked if the commission planned to change the terminology from TOT revenue to the General Fund.
“This board made this decision in fiscal year 2025-26 to put the TOT revenue into the General Fund as they do all other discretionary taxes,” Laine said, adding, “Going forward, these should be identified as General Fund monies.”
Laine also asked if the commission has a reserve fund.
At the start of this year the foundation had more than $218,000, Reynolds said, explaining some money had been saved during COVID when not much was happening.
“We allocated $90,000 of that this year for mini grants,” he said. Now there is more than $130,000, “which we’re trying to really whittle down.”
“The Military Family Support Group received their TOT allotment funds for FY 2023-24 and began to utilize those funds by providing transportation of our veterans for medical appointments,” according to the slide presentation which also noted the VAC approved the group to be funded in FY 2024-25 as well.
Board of Supervisors Chair George Turnboo said when he had his shop in El Dorado, “I was donating a lot of time and parts and stu to a lot of the homeless veterans to get them back on the road, especially when their vehicle broke down.
“Transportation is a big issue, especially with them.”
Other committees supported
“Unfortunately, this is long standing and will require some concerted e ort on both sides to work through our di erences,” he said, adding he thinks some of the issues are being resolved.
“We are committed to seeking solutions in the coming year,” the report states. Organizers of one organization that didn’t get its application in on time and another that had been denied a mini grant said they will return next year to apply again.
Supervisor Brian Veerkamp acknowledged the commission didn’t get the reporting from the Save the Graves organization by the due date, “which was a result of the extensive time it took to do research into trying to find some of the families.”
During public comment, Diamond Springs resident and
Turnboo asked if any funding could be used for the veterans in Grizzly Flat who lost their homes in the Caldor Fire.
“Yes, it could be,” Reynolds said.
He said the balance will be distributed to various groups until it’s down to about $20,000. Payne said he has changed his position over the years and is in support of the allocation to Veterans A airs, as well as the mini grant program.
“I would bring your balance down though,” Payne said to Reynolds. “If there’s money to go to mini grants, let it go to mini grants.”
The commission meets on the second Thursday of the month at noon. Visit eldoradocounty. ca.gov and search Veterans A airs Commission for more information.
UC Davis expands care in the region
Shelly Thorene Staff writer
The new UC Davis Health Folsom Medical Care Clinic, located at 14264 Innovation Drive near Highway 50 and East Bidwell Street in Folsom, is now open for patients. The threestory, 114,000-squarefoot facility is the first building on the new Folsom Center for Health Campus and consolidates three existing UC Davis Health facilities with additional services.
The $171 million facility offers pediatric and family medicine as well as oncology, neurology, cardiology and sports medicine. In addition to primary and specialty care, the facility offers cancer treatments in a state-of-the-art infusion center. The expanded radiology center provides services such as bone density scans, MRI and CT scans.
UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center Senior Public Information Officer
Stephanie Winn said the new facility will be especially helpful for cancer care. “People used to have to drive to Sacramento for treatment but now they will have a dedicated oncology care and a full-time oncologist on staff.”
The light-filled, vaulted entryway features a large artist-made mobile with brightly colored panes of glass delicately suspended from the second-floor ceiling over the open stairway. The panes of glass represent wildflowers and the native-wildflower theme is represented throughout
the entire building with various art forms including wall-mounted ceramics, painting and photography. Natural light is available throughout the building with comfortable seating arrangements in each department, complemented with art by regional artists.
The infusion center includes both spacious bays with windows to maximize views to the outdoors and brightly colored artwork featuring native flora as well as private seating areas with curtains for those who prefer privacy. There is also a compounding pharmacy on site to support the infusion center. A pediatric room, located near the infusion center lab, offers a quiet place for children who may have difficulty with a blood draw or have special needs or sensory issues.
Jonathan Gonzalez, engineer and construction manager with Jacobs Construction, whose involvement in the project began with the land acquisition in 2021, said the medical center is the first part of a larger healthcare hub planned for the 36-acre parcel. He said while there currently isn’t an urgent care facility on site, one may be included in the future along with a small hospital.
Gonzalez proudly said the new clinic is energy efficient and water wise, earning a gold standard with U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED green building rating system, second to platinum as the highest level. According to its
website, LEED is the most widely recognized green building rating system in the world and certification “offers a framework for healthy, efficient and costeffective green buildings, providing environmental and social benefits.” Points are achieved by meeting prerequisites for energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable materials, indoor environmental quality and site selection.
According to UC Davis Public Affairs, “The clinic’s design reflects a strong connection to nature and healing. Each area of the light-filled
STRAIGHT FROM PATIENTS’ MOUTHS
While patients may automatically assume that orthodontic treatment is needed to correct crooked, rotated, and overlapping teeth, it may only take a few subtle alterations by the dentist to correct problem teeth. Tooth contouring and reshaping are cosmetic techniques that can make a big difference, and they only require a single visit to the dentist. With a few deft touches, the dentist can change the shape, length, or position of teeth with minimal discomfort to the patient. A sanding drill or laser may be utilized to remove small amounts of surface enamel gradually, after which abrasive strips are slid back and forth on the teeth’s inside edges to shape the surfaces in between teeth. Finally, teeth are smoothed and polished. We are a wide-ranging dental
office and are proud and pleased to perform a wide variety of procedures, just about everything you could need in a dental office. We place a special emphasis on smile design and smile enhancement. We are dedicated to excellence in dental care. We offer a full array of dental procedures. We want you and your family to look and feel the very best. Please call us to schedule an appointment. New patients are always welcome. 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. Bonding teeth with resin that matches tooth color can build up areas of tooth surfaces that require supplementation.
Courtesy photo
The UC Davis Health Folsom Medical Care Clinic opened to the public this week.
Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene
Above, the light-filled, inviting entrance to the new UC Davis Health Folsom Medical Care Clinic features wildflower-themed art. The clinic began seeing patients this week. Below, Jonathan Gonzalez, engineer and construction manager with Jacobs Construction, left, and UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center Senior Public Information Officer Stephanie Winn, right, have a conversation in an open area of the Infusion Center in the new Folsom clinic located near East Bidwell Street and Highway 50.
CONGRATULATIONS
Our gratitude goes out to the following graduates for dedicating their time and effort to enhance their skills, motivation and vision to lead those around them toward an improved region and a healthier community.
Deanna Santana, Whitney Burke and Philip Jones, EDC Of ce of Education; Colleen Robinson, First Five; Becky Morton, Chris Perry and Tara Stout, County of El Dorado; Tom Williams, Dept of Agriculture; Steve Scho eld, Chris Stelz and Kristen Jensen, EDC Sheriff’s Of ce; Chris Brown, El Dorado Disposal; Emily Bertram,
Kailee Delongchamp and Madison Franklin, El Dorado Irrigation District; Ryan Robinson, El Dorado Transit; Tierrah Camara, Gold Country Health Center; Bryce Miller and Michael Sayer, Marshall; Danelle Watts and Noelia Rodriguez-Lundgren, New Morning Youth and Family Services; Richard Hockett, Richard Hockett Roo ng; Matthew Ryan Walker, Sweet Dreams Foundation; Shawnee Bledsoe, The Center; Blake Anderson, WealthGuard Advisors; Rebecca Lew (Not all were able to be present for the photo)
Come See Us
Dustin North, North Works Constructions
Custom homes, adus, additions, barns, plumbing, framing, siding, concrete and more. (916) 990-3689 • Dustin@northworks.org https://www.facebook.com/pro le.php?id=61566708327304
Rich Harrington, Mutual Of Omaha
Home Equity Retirement Originator
Reverse Mortgages, Reverse Mortgage for Purchase, Proprietary Reverse Mortgages, Realtor Education & Business Growth, Financial Advisor Education & Business Growth. (916) 717-8787 • https://mutualreverse.com/lo/richard-harrington/ Franky Gonzalez-Hernandez, Green Valley Road Self Storage
Serving the El Dorado Hills community with clean, modern storage solutions. Conveniently located at the lighted corner of Green Valley Road and Miller Road—right across from Folsom Lake Marina at Brown’s Ravine—we’re a top choice for storing boats, vehicles, and more. 2341 Hidden Acres Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 (916) 939-7737 • greenvalleyroadselfstorage.net
Terri Hendrickson, Ledgeit
We offer a wide range of services from full-service bookkeeping to administrative tasks like employee onboarding, payroll management, and handling essential forms. teressahendrickson@gmail.com • (530) 306-8296 https://www.ledgeitaccounting.com/
Edward Jones Investments, Jason Friese, Financial Advisor
“Your nancial picture matters to us, and our passion is to help provide clarity, con dence and a strategy to reach your goals. Listening to you, working together to help you achieve what is most important to you, and making a difference in our community is our focus.”
3200 Shingle Springs Dr, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 (530) 621-1014 • jason.friese@edwardjones.com
Are you missing your deliveries of the El Dorado County Farm Trails & Visitor’s Guide?
Due to recent funding cuts to tourism promotion, we’re no longer able to provide delivery service to our tourism partners as we have in the past. However, we still have plenty of guides available—and we want to get them into the hands of current and future visitors!
Stop by and pick some up—we’d love to see you!
Introducing the newest members of the Chamber family! From L to R: Dustin North, North Works Construction; Richard Harrington, Mutual of Omaha; Franky Gonzalez-Hernandez, Green Valley Road Self Storage; Terri Hendrickson, Ledgeit; and Jason Friese, Edward Jones
Chamber Champions: SEPTEMBER 2025
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce continues the tradition of the Highway 50 Holiday Trees. These brightly decorated trees along Highway 50 give joy to our community and travelers every year.
Submit your application online beginning October 6 through Oct 27 at https://eldoradocounty.org/christmas-tree-lane/. No applications will be accepted in person. One entry per family, organization, or group. You must be an El Dorado County resident to apply. Applications from those interested in adopting will be drawn through a randomized system and winners will be noti ed by email.
A list of back-up applicants will be chosen through the same randomized process. Should the original winner of the drawing
By: Dana Leisinger
Christmas Tree Lane - Save the Date
ADOPT-A-TREE Fundraiser
decline their tree within 5 days, the back-up list will be implemented.
The Christmas Tree Growers Assn. has given us a generous discount on the trees to sponsor this event. In addition, a handful of trees will be available for guaranteed adoption with a suggested donation of $300.00 per tree. To be guaranteed an adopted tree, you may call the chamber of ce at 530-621-5885.
Workplace Incident Underscores
Importance of Violence Prevention Policies
“We had a physical ght break out between two employees. Does this type of situation trigger workplace violence rules and requirements?”
The short answer is: Yes.
Workplace violence de nitions include acts or threats of physical violence, including acts between employees. Employers are required to provide a safe workplace and to take steps to minimize the threat of workplace violence (California Labor Code, Section. 6401.9).
This very real question involved a ght that was not witnessed by any other employees and resulted in only minimal injuries to one of the employees involved. Nevertheless, the employer’s obligations to take steps were trig-
gered.
The employer must comply with its own policies and procedures, and for minor ghts, particularly if there is no history of violence by either party, a warning usually will suf ce.
However, the employer should speak with both parties separately, getting each person’s version of what occurred.
Also a reality — the employer had a zero tolerance to violence policy in place along with a well-written violence prevention program.
Even when there is minimal evidence of an altercation, if other employees had witnessed it, there could be additional rami cations.
There should be clear guidelines of what is unacceptable behavior, as well as reporting guidelines so that if there are witnesses to an incident, they know
what to do. The employer should stress that such reporting will be kept condential and taken seriously.
The absence of witnesses does not negate the fact that something happened. Just because there is no physical evidence of an act of violence doesn’t mean that an act of violence did not occur.
Luckily, in the instant situation, there was minimal evidence of violence. Even so, the employer still should investigate what occurred to have a record of the incident in the event something else happens in the future.
For expert explanations of labor laws and Cal/OSHA regulations, not legal counsel for speci c situations, call (800) 348-2262 or submit your question at www.hrcalifornia.com.
You Can Submit Your Event Online!
Did you know that the Chamber keeps a community calendar of events?
El Dorado County events can be submitted to http://visiteldorado.mhsoftware.com/EditItem.html
Once approved, your event will appear on the online calendar at www.visiteldorado.com and also printed in the Voice of Business newsletter as space allows.
Miners on Main Scavenger Hunt
There are ten “Miners” hidden throughout Main Street Placerville from Sacramento Street to Clay Street. These Miners all had an impact on Placerville and El Dorado County during the Gold Rush period. Each miner has a QR code on the medallion that will take you to a webpage about the miners when scanned with your phone camera. So grab your phone and begin your hunt. visit-eldorado.com/ miners-on-main/
Moonlight Tours
Weekly on Thursday, Friday & Saturday. Where historic gold town stories are as rich as the ore once was, and the ghost tours are so chilling, even the specters have goosebumps. (530) 497-4960, moonlightghosttours@gmail. com , https://moonlighttours.co/ Farmer’s Markets:
South Lake Tahoe - Tuesdays 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. American Legion 2732 South Lake Tahoe Blvd
Cameron Park - Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Burke's Junction Cameron Park Corner of Coach Lane and Strolling Hill Rd. Main Street Placerville, Wednesdays 4 – 7 p.m. Mooney Lot, Main @ Clay St. Placerville Drive - Saturdays 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Regal Cinema Parking Area Placerville El Dorado Hills - Sundays 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
EDH Community Center, 1021 Harvard Way at El Dorado Hills Blvd
Community Observatory
Night Sky Viewing
Weekly on Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m.. 6699 Campus Dr, Placerville. $2 parking fee at the college. www.communityobservatory.com (530) 3445707
Placerville Speedway
Located at the El Dorado County Fair and Event Center. www.placervillespeedway.com
Line Dancing at the Smith Flat House
1st & 2nd Saturday of each month. $10 cover charge, all ages welcome. 2021 Smith Flat Rd, Placerville. (530) 6211003, www.smith athouse.com/events
Back Porch Swing at Smith Flat House
Sundays, 5 p.m. 2021 Smith Flat Rd, Placerville. www.smith athouse.com/events Bingo Night Weekly on Tuesdays. Pollock Pines Community Center, 2675 Sanders Dr. (530) 647-8005. https://pollockpinesca.org/
Dart Tournament Weekly on Wednesdays. The Prospector in Placerville. 594 Main Street. $15 entry fee. 6:30 – 7.00 p.m. New Business in town offering an all ages Arcade downstairs & (21 & older) Saloon & Music Hall with Darts upstairs.
Open Mic at Marco’s Cafe Thursdays, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Open Mic is open to all ages and is a family friendly event for all skill levels and music lovers. Bring your own instrument or grab one of our guitars and play some tunes. Enjoy wood red pizzas and food specials along with a great selection of local drinks. 986 Lotus Road, (530) 863-6870 https://marcoscafelotus.com/
Live on the Blvd –Summer Concert Series
El Dorado Hills Town Center
Sept 4 – Big Crush, Dance Through the Decades Sept 11 – Bad Jovi, Tribute to Bon Jovi and Bad Company Sept 18 – Tainted Love, Best of the 80’s Live Edhtowncenter.com
Bingo at the Pilot Hill Grange
First and Third Thursdays. 5 – 8 p.m. 1701 CA-193, Cool, CA 95614. Pilothillgrange.com
Stress Reduction Yoga
Thursdays, 12 – 1 :15 p.m. The Meadow, 510 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. (208) 290-8789, lindaries1@gmail.com
Intermediate Pilates
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 – 11 a.m. The Meadow, 510 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Cindy Barnhill, synergypilates14@gmail.com
Sep 6 Cantina for the Con Robb’s Resort. 10 am to 5 pm. https://www.
4 – 7 p.m. El Dorado Hills Town Center on the Boulevard. www.eldoradohillsbrewfest.org
Sept 6 Food, Wine and Live Music at Sierra Vista Music by Listen Hear Band. 5 – 8 p.m. www. sierravistawinery.com/shop/events/listenhear/ Sept 12 Big Autumn Auction An evening of fun, food, and philanthropy bene tting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra. Each year, community leaders and local businesses come together to donate unique and exciting items that are auctioned off in support of our life-changing youth mentoring programs. Whether you're bidding on once-in-a-lifetime experiences or exclusive local treasures, your support helps ignite the potential of children in our community. 6 – 9 p.m. Folsom Community Center. https://bbbsns.harnessgiving.org/events/2988 Sept 12 – Oct 6 Imagination Theater Presents: Blithe Spirit, Noël Coward’s sparkling supernatural farce. Fridays at 7pm, Sat and Sun at 2 p.m. Tickets: itplacerville.org or 530-6636983, Imagination Theater! On the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Placerville. Sept 13 Food, Wine and Live Music at Sierra Vista Music by Echo Summit. 5 – 8 p.m. www.sierravistawinery.com/shop/events/echo/
Sept 14 Junction Jamboree Community Festival at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. 12 – 6 p.m. Sept 19 Home Grown Comedy at The Stage at Burke Junction Third Fridays, 8 – 10 p.m. Join The Stage for Stand Up Comedy every month! Every month, new comedians, endless laughs! Tickets only $25. $5 Beer and Wine Menu all night. The Stage at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Ln, Suite E-1, Cameron Park. www.stageatburke.com/homegrowncomedy
Sept 20 Main Street Placerville Oktoberfest Beer, food, music and the Dachshund Dash! New: Giant Zucchini Contest Island of Black & White, Echo Summit, Born & Raised, Darth Mozart and more! 2 – 8 p.m. www.placervillemerchants.org/event-details/ oktoberfest-2
Sept 21 RIPE AREA: The Art of Native Plants Festival Celebrate connections between California native plants, local ecosystems, environmental conservation, land stewardship, and artistic expression. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wakamatsu Farm, 941 Cold Springs Rd, Placerville. Entrance Free – $10 per car parking donation request. Option: Chairs, blankets, popups, wagons, and picnics are welcome. https://bit. ly/RIPEAREA25
Sept 26 All In for MORE Poker Tournament 5 – 10 p.m. A lively, western-themed fundraiser supporting the dreams of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The evening features a professionally run poker tournament, a catered dinner by John Sanders of Old Town Grill, raf es, drinks, and plenty of fun. https://ticketstripe.com/ AllinforMORE
Sept 26 Boot Barn Ribbon Cutting Help celebrate the opening of this new business in our community. 12 – 1 p.m. 3912 Missouri Flat Rd., Placerville. Sept 27 Swap Meet El Dorado County Fair and Event Center. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. https://eldoradocountyfair.org/swap.html
Sept 27 Food, Wine and Live Music at Sierra Vista G-Ride will be playing LIVE on Stage from 4 – 7 p.m. www.sierravistawinery.com/event/g-ride/ Formoreinformationontheseandother events,visitwww.visiteldorado.com Eventdate,time,costorlocationsaresubjecttochange.Priortoattendinganevent pleasecon rmtheinformation.
OPINION
California Matters
Nine years later, court saga over $23,420 housing fee remains unsettled
Nine years ago, in preparation for his retirement, engineer
George Sheetz bought a plot of rural land in El Dorado County and applied for a county permit to place a manufactured home on his parcel.
Little did he know that what he thought would be a routine administrative transaction would turn into a legal dispute that would wind its laborious way through California courts, reach the U.S. Supreme Court — where he won a unanimous ruling — and is now back in California’s judicial system with the eventual outcome still uncertain.
El Dorado County was willing to give Sheetz his permit but only if he paid a $23,420 fee to o set the home’s supposed tra c e ects along county roads and Highway 50. The levy resulted from a general plan adopted by county supervisors in 2004 and amended two years later to impose a tra c mitigation fee as a condition for receiving a building permit.
Letters to the Editor
A legacy of leadership
EDITOR:
The Small School Districts’ Association extends its deepest gratitude to Eric Bonniksen for his exceptional service and transformative leadership as president of the SSDA Board of Directors. Bonniksen assumed the helm of the association at a time of enormous change across California’s small and rural school districts. As districts emerged from the pandemic, they faced a new set of compounding challenges: continued declines in enrollment, excessive absenteeism and rapidly shifting legislative priorities.
George Sziraki and ultimately the hiring of current Executive Director Yuri Calderon.
Bonniksen brought the same integrity and dedication he has demonstrated as superintendent of the Placerville Union School District to his role at SSDA. With a career in education beginning in 1994 and roots in El Dorado County since 2008, he has led with experience, vision and a genuine commitment to students, families and educators.
Under his leadership, PUSD’s three awardwinning schools — Sierra Elementary, Schnell Elementary and Markham Middle School — have flourished. Known for student-centered innovation, these schools reflect Bonniksen’s belief in setting high expectations while ensuring students have the supports they need to thrive, including robust social-emotional and mental health services.
One might think that a unanimous decision by an often-divided Supreme Court might have settled the issue, but it didn’t.
Sheetz paid the fee under protest but sued the county, contending that it violated the state’s Mitigation Fee Act, which requires that such fees have reasonable relationships to both the proposed development and its impact on public facilities, such as roadways. He also alleged that the fee violated U.S. Supreme Court rulings on property issues, declaring that excessive fees can be a form of extortion.
Sheetz lost in the trial court, which said the laws and rulings governing mitigation fees didn’t apply when they are enacted by legislative action, such as the El Dorado County’s tra c fee. In 2022, a threemember state appellate court panel unanimously agreed that the fees were legally valid. The state Supreme Court declined to take the case.
Sheetz’s attorneys and the Pacific Legal Foundation, a Sacramento organization that specializes in property rights issues, among other things, took his case to the U.S. Supreme Court. Last year, it unanimously rejected lower courts’ contentions that legislatively imposed fees are exempt from the Mitigation Fee Act and earlier Supreme Court rulings.
“There is no basis for a ording property rights less protection in the hands of legislators than administrators,” Justice Amy Coney Barrett wrote in the decision, referring to the Fifth Amendment prohibiting arbitrary “takings” of property. “The
The Balancing Act
Over his two-and-a-half-year tenure, Bonniksen provided a steady hand and unwavering focus. He not only led the charge in developing SSDA’s comprehensive strategic plan but guided its adoption and implementation with absolute fidelity. His leadership has not only defined SSDA’s direction but strengthened its position as a statewide voice for small and rural school districts.
Bonniksen’s calm, thoughtful leadership and deep passion for small and rural schools have left a lasting mark on both our organization and the communities we serve. He guided SSDA through a pivotal period of sta ng transitions, including the tenure of interim Executive Director Dr.
As SSDA board president, Bonniksen applied this same philosophy statewide. He championed the needs of small and rural school districts in both Sacramento and Washington, D.C., advocating for equitable funding, expanded professional development and greater unity among district leaders. His service was marked by generosity, sharing his time and expertise generously and actively participating in nearly
Good-bye to another taste of Americana — Cracker Barrel
When will these businesses learn?
It appears that the restaurant chain Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores is going to do a Bud Light and go woke. CEO Julie Felss Masino, leading the company since August 2023, appears to be a woke, DEI addict and is in the process of completely changing the restaurant’s theme of an old-time, Southern country restaurant and old country store with thousands of items for sale that represent the old country store theme.
The restaurant specializes in homecooked Southern meals with items like fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, country fried steaks, pancakes and other traditional American foods. It even does a Thanksgiving dinner with all the fixings, including an excellent
pumpkin pie. Cracker Barrel is Americana. And that’s what made it so successful — in addition to reasonable pricing.
Cracker Barrel grew from a single Lebanon, Tenn., restaurant in 1969 to 660 restaurants, now in 45 states. When you arrived and there was a line, you could sit on the massive front porch in one of the dozen or so rocking chairs as you waited for a table. Or you could shop in the country store connected to the restaurant. Restaurant walls were adorned with Americana — 75-yearold posters, antique photos and local knickknacks from the past. It’s a very homey and comfortable environment and interesting to see and read the history on the walls.
Bread isn’t on the menu, but buttermilk biscuits and/or cornbread
Five days after I nished this column, Cracker Barrel management apparently saw the light as they have been inundated with negative customer comments.
is and served with every meal. And, yes, I was a loyal Cracker Barrel customer and love their food.
The chain was founded with one store using the old country store theme and grew from there. In a field of dying restaurants, Cracker Barrel has remained profitable with the last quarter showing about $12 million in profit and annual sales of about $3.5 billion.
But that may be about to change. The woke CEO launched a rebranding of the restaurant — a change to white on the inside and white on the outside theme. The country store part will probably look like a Walmart and from the photos I saw, the interior walls are going modern. Maybe they could decorate stores with Hunter Biden paintings (they can be bought
cheap). Even the logo of an old timer sitting next to a soda cracker barrel is gone. The original Cracker Barrel founders developed a warehouse now with about 90,000 interesting antique items that are used to decorate the walls.
I don’t know what is happening to the menu, customer service and employee attitude, but there are a lot of upset customers and it is making news. I’m one of them who will choose other restaurants.
In Bud Light’s case, Anheuser Busch had many other brands and was supported by its parent company, InBev. It had plenty of capital to weather the woke rebranding storm. But Bud Light still hasn’t recovered
DAN WALTERS
LARRY WEITZMAN
Takings Clause applies equally to both — which means that it prohibits legislatures and agencies alike from imposing unconstitutional conditions on land-use permits.”
Pacific Legal Foundation hailed the ruling as closing a loophole through which governments, claiming an exemption for legislative acts, could impose fees without restriction.
“The government’s fee was nothing more than an exorbitant ransom to pay for permission to build a small, manufactured home,” the foundation said at the time. “It unfairly imposed costs that had
nothing to do with his project.”
One might think that a unanimous decision by an often-divided Supreme Court might have settled the issue, but it didn’t.
While the Supreme Court rejected the California appellate court’s decision, it sent the case back down for “further proceedings not inconsistent with this opinion.” That opened the door for the state appellate court to have another go.
Last month, it grudgingly acknowledged the Supreme Court ruling that legislatively imposed fees are not exempt from scrutiny, “contrary to
settled California law.” However, it declared that the fee imposed on Sheetz “is not an unconstitutional condition imposed on land use in violation of the Fifth Amendment’s takings clause. Accordingly, we again a rm the judgment.”
In other words, the case is back where it started nearly a decade ago with the $23,420 tra c mitigation fee being upheld by three state court judgments, notwithstanding what the U.S. Supreme Court declared.
We probably haven’t heard the last word yet.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
Letters Continued from A6 every SSDA event, initiative and program.
“Eric Bonniksen’s leadership was never about titles or recognition,” said Calderon. “It was about service — to his district, to other superintendents, and to the students who depend on us to get it right.”
On behalf of the SSDA board and sta , we thank Eric Bonniksen for his remarkable leadership, steadfast dedication, and enduring commitment to strengthening California’s small and rural school districts.
GWEN BELL Sacramento
We had a name for it: Ganging up
EDITOR:
Ithink it’s about time I shared my opinion of our international relations
In the late 1940s/early ‘50s (I would have been 10 or so), some kids on the street on Long Island o ered to beat me up. I was alone. The parents of that day stayed indoors doing whatever adults did in those days. Later, at home, I asked my father what to do. He had been in the boxing ring himself and rode steeplechase before law school and that other arena. He would know what to do.
And this is what he said: Do not hit anyone first. Do not hit a smaller kid. Do not hit anyone in the face.
All these years later I am thinking about our country’s choices of enemies. Our enemies are always small. And just to be safe, we station troops in their neighborhoods ahead of time.
Shouldn’t we be in mortal combat with a country of our own military size, if any? We wouldn’t dare propose to annex them.
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 rst Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org
CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS
CLUB meets the rst 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 Sheri ’s o ce, 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
ELIZABETH CAFFREY
Placerville
SPORTS
Meet the Tahoe-tested mountain bike
Katelyn Welsh Tahoe Daily Tribune
What started as a passion project three years ago has turned into a boutique bike company, called Apogee, that produces mountain bikes out of South Lake Tahoe, Calif.
“I make a part and I ride it that afternoon,”
Collin Huston says, head of operations, who fabricates certain parts at his South Tahoe machine shop, Huston Precision. He’s spent countless days testing the bike and new parts on what he refers to as a “repeatable test track” on the Armstrong Connector and Corral Trail.
The test track offers anything from jump lines, high and low speed areas, to rock gardens, proving to be a worthy and convenient testing ground to forge the full suspension Apogee One mountain bike.
“I don’t know how a mountain bike company would develop a bike,” he says, “if they didn’t live near trails like we have here.”
With his first job at a bike shop as early at 13 years old, bikes have been a focal point throughout Huston’s life.
“I’ve always been very attached to bikes,” he said, often finding himself contemplating bike designs and knew it
was inevitable he’d one day be building one.
The dream started taking shape in 2022 as a fun project to try something new with his friend Will Hilgenberg, an experienced designer in the cycling industry, having worked on designs for Ibis, Specialized, Praxis, and Bell/Giro.
“It just seemed like a really cool opportunity,” Huston said, “to build something that [we’re] really excited about.”
Huston and Hilgenberg’s goal was to create a bike that would speak for itself with a ride quality that set it
apart. The steel-framed Apogee One targets bike tech enthusiasts who are interested in a ride you won’t find from larger brands focused on carbon bikes.
The low placement of the suspension allows the steel frame to flex with the ride to deliver compliance and absorption, promising a ride tag-lined, “as smooth as it can get without paving the trail.”
Demo riders have raved about how it’s a surprisingly capable jumper while also sticking to the trails.
n See APOGEE, page A9
Trojans lose tough SoCal game; other varsity squads face challenges
Mike Bush
Mountain Democrat correspondent
For a second consecutive week, the Oak Ridge High Schol varsity football team took a lengthy road trip for a non-league game.
The Trojans returned to Southern California to take on Mission Hills’ squad on Friday. But the Grizzlies from San Marcos had the final roar, posting a 24-13 win over Oak Ridge (1-1).
The Trojans jumped out to a 3-0 lead on a field goal with 4 minutes left in the first quarter. This would be one of two times Oak Ridge would have the lead in the game. Then the Grizzlies tied the game about 10 minutes later, now in the second quarter, also on a field goal.
Mission Hills recorded its first touchdown of the game in the second on an interception. The extra point was good to give the home team a
10-3 score.
Oak Ridge tied the game in the third quarter on a 1-yard run. The extra-point kick was good for a 10-10 score.
The Trojans booted a field goal in the third quarter, which gave them a 13-10 lead. But Mission Hills knotted the game again, also on a field goal, for a 13-all score.
In the fourth quarter, the Grizzlies found the end zone again, also on a pass to take the lead for good on a 3-yard pass. The extra point was good for a 17-13 score.
The Grizzlies recorded their final touchdown toward the end of the fourth on a 2-yard pass. The kick was good for a 24-13 score.
Oak Ridge is off this week but will play its first home game of the season against another Sac-Joaquin Section powerhouse in St. Mary’s of Stockton (2-0) on Friday, Sept. 12. This game is scheduled to
start at 7 p.m.
The Trojans started the season with a convincing 40-7 win over Frontier of Bakersfield on Aug. 23. Frontier won the 2024 California Interscholastic Federation Football Division 3-AA title and finished with an 11-4 record.
Ponderosa nabs victory
The varsity Bruins were also on the road for a second consecutive week, this time to Orangevale to face Casa Roble. Ponderosa (2-0) returned to Shingle Springs with a 36-34 win, also on Friday. The Bruin squad jumped out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter and its offense continued to churn out points in the second quarter with two more touchdowns. Casa Roble got on the scoreboard in that quarter, but the Burins held a 28-7 halftime lead. Casa Roble rallied in the third quarter, trimming the Bruins’ lead to 28-26. Ponderosa scored its final touchdown in the fourth quarter, plus making good on a 2-point conversion that led to the victory. Bruin quarterback Colton Ridgley completed 11 of 18 passes for 145 yards and 4 touchdowns. Ponderosa wide receiver Zealand Jenks had four receptions for
Courtesy photos
At left, Collin Huston explores the Tahoe Rim Trail on one of his custom-made mountain bikes.
Above, Rider Henry Nadell tests the jumpability on an Apogee mountain bike. Below, Apogee was in display at the Tahoe Mountain Bike Festival in June.
the fire seemed to be moving away from the sanctuary,” according to the nonprofit’s social media post. “It looks like, until further notice, our kitties (and our live-in founder) will be safe to stay.
“We want to thank you all for the overwhelming support and kindness showed,” the message continued. “Many of you messaged us offering transportation, supplies, fostering, and even updates on the fire spreading, together with photos and videos.”
83 yards, plus a touchdown.
Chase Laczny, along with Bruin teammates Ben Bailey and Weston Komulainen, scored a TD each in the game.
Running back Cole Pratt had 12 carries for 72 yards for Ponderosa. Marshall Alvernaz followed with 11 carries for 58 yards and scored a TD.
On defense, Bruin cornerback Tucker Soriano, along with Bailey, had six tackles each. Mason Schade followed with five tackles.
This Friday, Ponderosa will host Foothill (1-1) at 7 p.m.
El Dorado’s away game blues
The varsity Cougars were on the road for the first time this season at Del Campo of Fair Oaks in the battle of the Cougars. But the host came away with a 41-28 win.
Quarterback Hunter Rupley completed 12 of 17 passes for 207 yards for El Dorado (0-2) and threw two touchdowns. Heath Morris, only a sophomore, accounted for two
from
“It’s very cool to know that you can move the needle with your design decisions,” Huston expressed, who says it’s a rewarding experience when riders tune into the exact capabilities they designed the bike for.
The aesthetic of its unique, narrow steel tube frame gets attention and stands out on the trail. Unlike its carbon counterparts, the steel frame is recyclable.
After two years on a computer and numerous prototypes, the team has grown to include Jake Webski, Andrio Abero, and Henry Nadell, who helped officially launch the Apogee brand last year. Apogee refers to the high point or pinnacle, a place the bike creators hope it takes many riders in its existence as a peak product.
Huston is proud to say that the frame is entirely made in the U.S. with the team and vendor collective located in the Pacific Northwest. Each frame is hand-welded in Seattle, Wash. Certain parts are made at Huston’s shop and
Weitzman Continued from A6
from the typhoon it created as beer drinkers evidently have long memories. Its sales dropped by 30% when the ridiculous ad campaign began and the company has remained there, if not dropped some more. Even with the new Clydesdale commercial, sales haven’t improved. Bud Light was the No. 1 beer in sales but is now outsold two to one by other brands. And the same for bar sales and from the tap, with Bud Light now taking second place. So what is going to happen to Cracker Barrel? If the sterile makeover continues, destroying its uniqueness and individuality, the brand will fail. It had a huge loyal base, but now it will become just another Denny’s and that is no offense to Denny’s; I actually like their food and decent prices. And Denny’s is not a restaurant chain to compete with. For California, there are five Cracker Barrels, including one restaurant in Rocklin. Customers liked the flavor of the restaurant and
Evacuations warnings around Sweet Valley Road were lifted around noon on Tuesday. All roads are open but fire crews are still working in the area. Those traveling to or through the fire zone are asked to take caution.
The cause of the Valley Fire is under investigation.
touchdowns. The Cougar had five receptions for 126 yards.
On defense, Cougar linebacker Steele Engle had 12 tackles in the game. Defensive back Grant Raffetto followed with nine.
El Dorado is back on the road again, this time traveling to the YubaSutter area where it will play at East Nicolaus (1-0) in a non-league contest this Friday. The game is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m.
Union Mine in close game
The Diamondbacks had a close one at Wheatland, which came away with a 12-8 win on Friday.
Quarterback Nathan Gregson completed four of 10 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown for Union Mine (0-2). D-backs running back Max Nober caught that lone pass on a 59-yard reception.
The D-backs will be at Union Mine Football Stadium this Friday, welcoming Bear River (1-1) for a nonleague contest at 7 p.m.
assembled with the help of a young up-and-coming local rider, Max Fish.
For Huston, creating Apogee One has been both a learning and rewarding experience. Looking ahead, Apogee hopes to continue to grow in scale while maintaining U.S. operations. The team has a vision for other models of bikes, including a hardtail and a shorter travel bike.
“We want to just keep exploring,” Huston says. “That’s why we started this, to be building cool bikes.”
Apogee offers a small demo fleet that travels around the Pacific Northwest, including an appearance at the Tahoe Mountain Bike Festival in June. Certain sizes are available to demo in South Lake with more sizes coming soon. Anyone interested in a demo can contact collin@apogee.bike to set up a ride.
You can also follow their Instagram, Apogee Bikes, for future demo event announcements.
To learn more visit apogee.bike.
its food. But with the total rejection of woke (it’s plain discrimination) that’s blazing through America as though it was an aberration or nightmare, perhaps Cracker Barrel can save itself although its stock fell about 10% when the rebranding story broke. It will take a change in management, however. Until then, there is still Black Bear Dinner, In-and-Out Burger and some excellent local restaurants.
Columnist’s note: Five days after I finished this column, Cracker Barrel management apparently saw the light as they have been inundated with negative customer comments. The old logo of Uncle Herschel and the soda cracker barrel will remain. But that may not solve the problem. Many customers know the management is woke, will never forgive their transgressions and will not comeback. I certainly will not. Are they going to be another Bud Light?
Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.
COMICS
n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
n RUBES by Leigh Rubin
n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Left unchecked, your active mind can spiral into worry. The way to stay grounded isn’t by trying to stop thinking, but by deliberately shifting your focus into visualizing what you want to happen and then staying there, mentally developing that dream.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Today is a good day to stretch toward someone you don’t “get” yet — an effort that also stretches your heart, humanity and ultimately your resources. The more you can know, understand and accept about people, the more capable you become.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). “Drink coffee. Do stupid things faster,” says the sign that’s funny because it’s true. Energy without direction is chaos. Before you rev the engine, chart the route. A solid plan turns momentum into progress instead of a mess.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). A mural can turn a plain wall into a view. A book can turn an ordinary day into an adventure. When the excitement isn’t occurring naturally, you add it, for instance, by talking with someone new, which is a window to another world.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’re leaning into your passions and interests with a fresh wave of enthusiasm. Collaborate with people who help you focus or spark ideas. Learn about other systems and methods. Eventually, you’ll form a practice around these discoveries.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You’re always game to challenge your assumptions, expand your perspective and become a more well-rounded person. That’s why you’re in a strong position today to see things clearly now. You’ll spot opportunities, anomalies and the red flags that others miss.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). People state opinions like they’re gospel, or latch onto the one part of the story that supports their view. Today hits at the core of selective truth and the way people build narratives out of fragments that flatter their beliefs.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Complexity abounds. Even within a simple decision such as choosing to eat better, there are dozens of tiny, invisible decisions embedded — what to buy, when to prep, how to store it, etc. In all things, try to streamline the path forward.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You want more freedom, but the key might be in giving it. Loosen your grip, release control, and let things breathe — a relationship, a process, a timeline. Your trust changes the dynamic. The results will pleasantly surprise you.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). There’s a lot coming at you, but it’s not your style to just endure it. Decide what gets your attention and what doesn’t. Protect your energy like it’s an asset — because it is. The right boundary will be your best investment today.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Someone’s response (or lack of
SUDOKU
Photo courtesy of Cal Fire AEU
An aerial view shows the charred acreage burned by the Valley Fire.
build out from a central area.
building is themed around different native plants, such as milkweed, lupine and poppies. Artwork fills the space, including photographs by the clinic director.”
This attention to detail is evident immediately upon entering the facility where one is greeted to the site of an enormous mobile hanging from the second-floor ceiling. It features small panes of brightly colored glass by East Coast artist Christina Watka and is titled “If Wildflowers Could Sing, It Would Look Like This.” For a brief moment, viewing this impressive work of art, one could forget they were in a medical facility.
Gonzalez said the clinic design included an outdoor “central green concept” that would allow a
in the U.S.,” said Amy Berry, Tahoe Fund CEO. “We partnered with Restoring the Lake Depths Foundation and Martis Camp Foundation to fund a custom ROV capable of live streaming a journey to the bottom, giving people the chance to experience Lake Tahoe in a whole new way.”
Via a livestream that will be broadcast on the Tahoe Fund’s website, follow along as Deep Emerald, a custom ROV built by Restoring the Lake Depths, ventures to the bottom of Lake Tahoe. While the ROV descends, Tim Crandle, president of SeaView Systems, will share more about the cutting-edge technology that made this journey possible and Sudeep Chandra, foundation professor of limnology at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe and the Tahoe Institute for Global Sustainability, will unpack the secrets of why Tahoe’s famed waters are so clear.
Featuring open-source electronics from Blue Robotics and Mission Robotics software, Deep Emerald was designed for underwater exploration. It is equipped with an eight-thruster system for
There may also be plans for a hotel close by — an addition ideal for patients. “We currently pay for patients undergoing cellular therapy to stay at a Marriott hotel as it is cheaper for them to stay there instead of in the hospital,” Winn noted.
The second floor of the clinic is home to specialty care clinical spaces including otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat), obstetrics and gynecology, ophthalmology, cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, sport physical medicine and recovery.
The third floor of the clinic features the Women’s Imaging Center with state-of the-art 3-D contrast imaging equipment. The dressing room area has brightly colored walls with floral art and lockers
maneuverability, four LED lights and a 4K Ultra HD camera with low-light sensitivity for high-resolution imaging. In addition to deep water exploration, Deep
with combination locks to store valuables during exams. The waiting room is designed to be kidfriendly with spacious views of the outdoors and a comfortable seating area. Additional facilities are planned on the Folsom Center for Health campus as the health system adapts to the needs of the region. The health system is on track to open 1 million square feet of new development this year, including: Aggie Square Innovation District, 48X Complex outpatient surgery center and the C-Street Clinic expansion. UC Davis Health will continue to provide some services at its 271 Turn Pike Dr. location in Folsom. These include gastroenterology, dermatology and pulmonology.
Emerald has been utilized to remove litter from the lake and help identify aquatic invasive species.
“Deep Emerald is our flagship ROV, funded by Tahoe Fund and the Martis Camp Foundation and built for advanced underwater exploration,” said Lindsay Kopf, founder and executive director of Restoring the Lake Depths Foundation. “Its 600m fiber optic tether allows for deep-water exploration, making it a rare ROV capable of reaching the depths of Lake Tahoe’s deepest points.”
While Deep Emerald leads the way with its exceptional abilities, Restoring the Lake Depths Foundation’s full fleet of four ROVs, powered by technology from Blue Robotics and Mission Robotics, works in concert to achieve comprehensive lake monitoring and restoration. Each ROV is equipped with advanced cameras, sensors and deep-water tools, enabling precise data collection, sample retrieval and debris removal.
Watch the livestream at tahoefund.org/deepdive starting at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 5.
Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene
Left, the view from a third-story window shows a green area where visitors and clinic staff can walk or sit, eventually linking up to new development on the 36-acre parcel. At right, A private waiting area equipped with individual changing rooms and lockers is located in the
Photo courtesy of the Tahoe Fund and Restoring the Lake Depths Foundation
In addition to deep water exploration, Deep Emerald has been utilized to remove litter from the lake.
at the Crocker NEWS, IN THE KNOW
Sept. 3
The El Dorado Community Foundation will host the Scholarship Education Forum, 6:30-8 p.m. at Boys and Girls Club of Lake Tahoe. RSVP with Kathy Haven at kathy@eldoradocf.org.
The Valhalla Tahoe boathouse theatre and outdoor lawn presents Gundhild Carling from 7:30-10 p.m. For more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Sept. 4
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting at Marco’s Cafe in Lotus from 5:30-7 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Live On The Boulevard with Big Crush — A Dance through the Decades from 7-9 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
An Evening with The Cravens ~ Hattie & Joe will perform, 7-9 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Sept. 5
1850 Wine Cellars will host Name That Tune, ‘70s 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.
Richard March Band + Doug not Josh will perform, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Thunder Cover will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. And Night Owls will perform, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
Boys of Summer — The The Eagles Experience tribute will perform at 8 p.m. and again on Saturday 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. 6
The Experimental Aircraft Association, Chapter 512, will host its Famous Pancake Breakfast from 8-11 a.m. at the Placerville Airport, 3501 Airport Road. Enjoy breakfast, airplanes on display and old friends. Proceeds go to the Sunny Atkin Scholarship Fund for students of aeronautical related studies.
The gleam of chrome and the roar of engines will once again fill the air at Automotive Excellence, as the community gathers for the Automotive Excellence Car Show—a heartfelt event benefiting the Scott Santana Memorial Foundation and the Live On! Drive On! Initiative to encourage others be organ, eye and tissue donors. The event runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 4600 Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. Admission is free for the public.
Miraflores Winery, 2120 Four Springs Trail in the Pleasant Valley area, is serving its acclaimed Pairings Lunches on the Vineyard Terrace on Saturdays and Sundays with seatings from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2-4 p.m. Pairings 2025 combines a chef’s creativity with the beautifully crafted Miraflores wines. Diners will be able to talk
Learn something at the Crocker
News release
ACRAMENTO — Crocker Art
SMuseum, renowned for its Californian art collection, extensive European master drawing holdings and international collection of ceramics is also known for its public engagement programs. On any given weekend (and some weekdays) the public can find youth enrichment programming like Kids & Co. Gallery Adventure or Artful Tot along with educational tours and programming for all ages like Look & Learn, Meet Me At The Museum and history and architectural tours. Here is a sampling of offering in the coming weeks.
Look & Learn
Sept. 3, noon to 12:30 p.m.
This 30-minute exploration of a single artwork, led by a docent, is rich with group discussion. Each tour is different, and no prior art knowledge is required.
Art After Hours
Sept. 4, 6-8:30 p.m.
Ages 18+
Spark creativity with a craft night that is uniquely Crocker. Explore an array of artmaking experiences and meet fellow creators and expert instructors at stations throughout the Museum. Flow through several experiences with a few friends or dig into one activity and leave with a completed artwork.
Creative stations lineup
• Sculpting with air-dry clay with artist Viv Siqueiros — Shape your imagination into form with this tactile, hands-on clay experience — no kiln required.
• DIY photo props with artist Keia Kodama — Design and make your own photo props, then strike a pose for a fun take-home snapshot.
• Draped figure drawing in the ballroom with artist Patris — Practice your figure drawing skills in an elegant setting with live draped models and guided tips from a local expert.
• Sketching in the galleries — Grab a sketchpad and let the Crocker’s collection spark your creativity. Quiet, meditative and self-guided.
• Surreal sculptures using model magic with artist Abbie Cairel — Build your own dreamlike 3D forms using colorful Model
Magic clay — think outside the mold.
• Make a resin keepsake with artist Jennie Simpson — Capture color, texture and a touch of shine in a custom resin charm or mini artwork to take home.
• Color mixing for fun: acrylic on canvas panel with artist Cara Gregor — Play with paint and discover the joy of bold hues and blends.
• Design a tarot card with artist Sydney Jones — Reflect, imagine and illustrate your very own tarot card using watercolor and a little magic.
Artful Tot
Sept. 6, 10:30 a.m. to noon
Ages 19 – 36 months Toddlers explore artmaking in new ways with different materials, from printmaking and color mixing to working with clay and fabric. Adults learn how to encourage experimentation and self-expression while nurturing a child’s creativity. Families are welcome to arrive at any time during this drop-in program. Dress for a mess.
History Tours
Sept. 6, 11 a.m. to noon Step back in time with a docent on this history-infused tour about the Crocker family and the era in which they lived.
Tours change monthly.
Kids & Co. Gallery Adventure
Sept. 7, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Ages 5+ with accompanying adults
This family-friendly tour is the perfect way to introduce art to children ages 5 and older and the adults who tag along with
Lava Cap Winery releases Tectonic series
Lee Hodo Special to the Democrat
In the El Dorado American Viticultural Area, at the highest vineyard elevations of the Sierra Nevada foothills, the Jones family has built an estate where geology, elevation and generational stewardship converge — Lava Cap. Building on a range of wines deeply rooted in an enduring connection to geology and distinctive volcanic soils, the Joneses introduce the Tectonic line of wines.
The name, referencing Earth’s crust and the powerful geological processes that shape it, honors the late David Jones, Lava Cap’s founder, who as a geologist played a significant role in advancing the theory of plate tectonics. The new Tectonic wines are small-lot barrel selections chosen for their remarkable structure and expressiveness.
Winemaker Nolan Jones selected the lots for vibrant character, depth and age-worthiness.
“Every year, certain lots stand out for their
ability to capture the essence of our mountain soils and high-elevation vineyards,” he said. “The Tectonic series is my way of bottling these rare wines not defined by vineyard or variety but by their fascinating and one-of-a-kind expression of El Dorado red wines.”
The first release in the series is a 2023 El Dorado Zinfandel. The 2023 El Dorado Barbera will be released before year’s end.
Founded in the early 1980s, Lava Cap is deeply connected to the volcanic soils of the El Dorado AVA — specifically the Miocene Mehrten Formation, which imparts the minerality, lift and structure that distinguish Lava Cap wines as unique in California. David Jones’s legacy and the land science focus of the winery are carried forward by the family’s second and third generations, who remain fiercely committed to understanding the terra firma and how it shows itself in the bottle.
The architects of the Lava Cap brand are second-generation Charlie and Noreen
Jones, who have cultivated a deeprooted commitment to the winery and the El Dorado wine region. This commitment is now stewarded by their children, Emmet, Kevin and Nolan.
Emmet, educated as a geologist, farms the family’s high-elevation vineyards (2,700–3,100 feet), focusing on longterm soil health and vine resilience over
Courtesy photos
Programs like Art after Hours and Artful Tot are offered on a regular basis at Crocker Art Museum.
Courtesy photo
Lava Cap is where geology, elevation and generational stewardship converge.
Oh Dear, the Zucchini!
Pickling is one of the oldest methods of food preservation. Queen Cleopatra attributed her legendary beauty as well as her health to the pickles in her diet. Roman troops were given pickles in their diet believing it would make them strong. What if you don’t have many pickling cucumbers? No problem. Make some sweet, tangy pickles with all those zucchinis you can’t give away this time of year. These pickles make a wonderful addition to your charcuterie board for the holidays. This recipe hails from National Center for Home Food Preservation, University of Georgia.
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 2 tablespoons celery seed
• 4 tablespoons mustard seed
Lewis UCCE
Food Preserver
Bread and butter zucchini pickles
Yield: about 8-to-9pint jars
• 16 cups sliced zucchini squash (or other summer squash or cucumbers)
• 4 cups thinly sliced onions (about 1 ½ pounds medium onions)
• ½ cup pickling or canning salt
• 4 cups white vinegar, 5% acidity
• 2 cups sugar
Slice zucchini into rounds, one-quarterinch thick. Slice onions into one-quarter-inch thick slices. Place sliced vegetables in a large flat glass or plastic container. Cover sliced vegetables with one inch of water and salt. Let stand for two hours. Add ice cubes over the top, if desired. Meanwhile, prepare boiling-water canner or atmospheric steam canner. Heat cleaned jars in canner until ready to use, do not boil (simmering water at 180 degrees F). Wash lids in warm soapy water and set aside with bands. Drain vegetables thoroughly after two hours. Rinse vegetables in cool water if you desire a less salty
product. Bring spices, sugar and vinegar to a boil in a large stainless-steel saucepan. Add the sliced vegetables to the spice/ vinegar mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil. Simmer for five minutes. Pack zucchini and onions into a hot jar, leaving half-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary. Clean jar rim. Center lid on jar. Screw band down until resistance is met, then increase to fingertip tight. Place the jar in the canner. Repeat until all jars are filled. Water must cover jars by at least one inch in boiling water canner or come to the base of the rack in a steam canner. Adjust heat to medium-high, cover canner and bring water to a rolling boil in a boiling-water canner or until there’s a steady stream of steam coming
Monday Club Bridge officers installed
No
from the steam canner for one minute. Start timing and process halfpint jars: 10 minutes at 0 – 1,000 feet elevation, 15 minutes at 1,001 –6,000 feet, 20 minutes at 6,001 feet and above. Turn off heat. For boiling water canner, remove lid and let jars stand for five minutes. For atmospheric steam canner, let canner sit undisturbed for 5 minutes, then remove
lid. Remove jars and cool on a toweled surface for 12-24 hours. Check lids for seal (they should not flex when center is pressed). Label, date and store in a cool dark place. For more information about UC Master Food Preserver classes, events and food preserving resources visit ucanr. edu/site/ucce-masterfood-preservers-centralsierra.
Grants serving EDH open
Haven El Dorado Community Foundation
Local nonprofit agencies serving the community and residents of El Dorado Hills are invited to apply for grant funding from The El Dorado Hills Giving Circle and El Dorado Hills Area Foundation. Applications of up to $10,000 will be considered. In an effort to best serve the community, the grant does not have a specific focus area thereby inspiring new ideas with the possibility of responding to unmet community needs. Organizations that have been granted funds in the past two consecutive years must sit out this year/cycle before re-applying to this grant
process next fall. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Sept. 25. Feel free to contact Community Impact Officer Kathy Haven at kathy@eldoradocf.org.
Note that this grant is for nonprofits providing services or programs that include El Dorado Hills.
The El Dorado Hills Area Foundation and Giving Circle, funds of the El Dorado Community Foundation, work to increase awareness of El Dorado Hills’ needs and to inspire generosity to strengthen the community through this grant making process. Further guidelines and funding requirements are available at tinyurl. com/8xf97pcu.
Laurie
of El Dorado County
Pixabay photo.
cucumbers? Not to worry, those zucchinis you have will pickle just fine.
Photo by Dave Angelo
The Monday Club Bridge officers for 2025-26 were installed at a meeting July 28. The club was organized December 1949 for playing contract bridge and socializing. They currently meet at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at Denny’s restaurant, 99 Fair Lane, Placerville. New members of all skills are welcome. For more information contact Mary Lou at (530) 391-1359. Left to right, President Mary Lou Rock, Vice President Maria Matthews, Secretary Jackie Evans, Treasurer Susan Polstra and Auditor Ruthie Sinclair.
Kathy
All new leadership welcomed
Joan Geel
Placerville Shakespeare Club
The Placerville Shakespeare Club recently announced that Sara Edwards has assumed leadership of the 128-year-old club in the role of president. Edwards has been an active member of the group for 15 years.
The club was originally formed on May 2, 1897 with the primary objective of studying the plays of William Shakespeare.
Today, well into its second century, the club continues to be dedicated to its original ideals of promoting sociability and friendship among members and providing assistance to local charities and youth, in addition to beautifying the neighborhood in which the clubhouse is located.
Recently the club awarded 11 scholarships to support young
Wine
Continued from B1
short-term yields. Kevin, who does marketing, has united eight local vintners to collectively promote the El Dorado AVA as the “highlands” of the Sierra Foothills AVA. Nolan oversees winemaking, sales and marketing and is current president of the regional association. He travels nationally, representing the region with wines that define the winery’s particular connection to the land. The Tectonic Zinfandel is available now at Lava Cap Winery, 2221
to the chef du jour about the wine and food experience. On Sept. 6 & 7 chef Carl Williams is preparing a Mediterranean Delight. Call (530) 647-8505 or email info@mirafloreswinery. com to make a reservation.
The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host the El Dorado Hills Brewfest at EDH Town Center from 3-7 p.m. An unforgettable afternoon of unlimited tasting privileges from a wide selection of craft breweries, cideries, wineries and more. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.
UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County host a free public tour at 9 a.m. After the approximately one-hour tour, wander around the 16 individual gardens at your own pace or ask docents for help and more information at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville.
Join the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County for a Seed Saving workshop 9 a.m. to noon. Gather seeds from selected plants to take home. Learn about tried-and-true seed saving techniques. Includes flowers, native plants and vegetables. Suitable for beginner “seed curious” gardeners and more experienced seed-savers with technical questions. Space is plentiful, but chairs are limited, bring your own folding chair if possible. Register at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=46209.
Sara Edwards
women pursuing their educational goals. To learn more about the Placerville Shakespeare Club visit placerville-shakespeare.com.
Fruitridge Road in Placerville. Both wines will be in national distribution.
Lava Cap is a third-generation family farm. Its mountain-grown estate grapes are sourced from some of the highest vineyards in California, located in the Sierra Nevada foothills at an elevation of 2,700 feet. The unique volcanic soils, weathered from ancient ash flows, produce wines that are intensely aromatic and luscious, with rich fruit erupting with flavor.
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-committeeKnow Continued from B1
Gwinllan Estate Vineyard and Winery will host Harvest Hog from 1-4 p.m. an unforgettable celebration of the 2025 harvest, where attendees will indulge in the delectable flavors of a slow roasted whole pig, perfectly cooked to delight the palate. For more information visit gwinllanestate.com.
Bumgarner Winery’s tasting room in Camino will host Trivia Night at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit bumgarnerwinery.com.
The Stage at Burke Junction will hold auditions for “Well” by Lisa Kron and directed by Odin Rasco at 4:30 p.m. and again on Sunday at 12:30 p.m. All parts are open. For more information visit stageatburke.om.
Lizz Shine Band + Uneasy + Cidney Kay will perform, 7-11:59 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
The Valhalla Tahoe boathouse theatre and outdoor lawn presents Word Wave OneAct winners performance from 7-9:30 p.m. For more
information visit valhallatahoe. com.
The Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series presents Teddy Swims from 7:30-10 p.m. For more information visit tinyurl.com/ yfvbt3xz.
Sierra Vista Winery will host live music featuring The Listen Hear Band from 5-8 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.
Ariel Jean will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.
California Museum in Sacramento presents California Statehood Day from noon to 4 p.m. For more information visit californiamuseum.org.
Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents Rita Rudner at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter. net.
Sept. 7
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host Fitness in the Park at Saratoga Park at 9 a.m. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
Music on the Divide presents Paul Kamm and Eleanore MacDonald at 3 p.m. For tickets and more information visit musiconthedivide.org.
“The Valley of Tears” a tribute to Gillian Welch & David Rawlings + Grayson Howard performs 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information
visit clubgreenroom.com.
Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host live music with Jimmy Spero. For more information visit shadowranch.com.
Sept. 9
Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Bloodmobile bus will be parked near the baseball fields at Community Park, 1021 Harvard Way. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM019 or call (877) 258-4825. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.
The El Dorado Hills Genealogical Society will present a Zoom discussion with featured speaker Mary J. Sayles, titled “Location, Location, Location.” Sayles is an expert genealogist with skills in finding locations in which our ancestors lived, especially when town names and county names have changed and towns no longer exist. She is the current president of the Sacramento Regional Genealogical Council. We invite anyone interested to join on Zoom by sending an email to Pat Kriz at patkriz@ earthlink.net by Monday, Sep. 8.
Now
Thrifty Ice Cream finds new home
Andrew Vonderschmitt
Features editor
When news broke that the Rite Aid on Broadway was shutting its doors, longtime customer and owner of T.W. Bonkers on Main St. Tony Windle saw both a loss and an opportunity. For Windle, the closure was personal.
“I’ve been going to Thrifty’s ice cream in that location since I was a little kid,” he said. “I’ve always loved Thrifty’s. And for Gen Xers, I mean, the Chocolate Malted Crunch was kind of like an iconic flavor for all of us, and if that’s going to go away, it’s like, oh my god.”
Windle immediately contacted management at Rite Aid. His inquiry came just before the shutdown was finalized.
“At that time, a liquidator was assigned to Rite Aid, and we made a deal on buying not only all the dipping cabinets, but all the signage too.”
It wasn’t just about selling ice cream, he explained, but about saving a legacy.
“I bought all the material items, the fixtures, if you will, signage,” he said. “I got all the branded cups, and even the famous cylindrical scoops.”
Still, carrying the iconic treat in his store hinged on one thing: access to the ice cream itself. Windle wanted to confirm Thrifty brand
Learn
ice cream was available wholesale before he moved on the purchase.
“Otherwise it wouldn’t make any sense,” he said.
He contacted the distributor and confirmed that the Thrifty brand ice cream he’d grown up eating was still available to wholesale clients, “Then it was on,” he said.
Then it became a waiting game.
“We couldn’t take possession of everything until they (Rite Aid) literally shut the store down,” Windle said.
Once given the green light he transported everything to his Main St. shop and hosted a soft opening that weekend.
“We sold more ice cream cones in two days than we usually
Continued from B1
them. Come back every month for a totally new experience.
Architecture Tour
Sep 7, 1-2:30 p.m.
Uncover the artistry behind the Crocker Art Museum’s architecture on this 90-minute docent-led tour. Explore the ways that the Museum’s historical Italianate and 21st-century structures complement each other and learn how architectural designs, building materials and construction techniques have changed over the last 150 years.
ArtMix: Beer Garden
Sep. 11, 6-9 p.m.
Ages 18+
Break free at ArtMix, the Crocker’s fun-filled evening extravaganza bursting with live performances, DJ music, festive food and drinks, art activities and more. This is a Museum-wide party, with new, imaginative themes each month. Come for the lagers and the autumn leaves! This Oktoberfest-inspired
do in two weeks,” he exclaimed. “Which was crazy.”
Customers have responded to the nostalgia and quality of the product as well as the pricing.
“We’ve lowered our prices,” he explained. “I sell it at the Thrifty’s price, so people really responded to that.” For Windle, it was more about preserving a tradition.
“It’s kind of like, let’s bring back that brand, that Thrifty ice cream that everybody loves,” he said. “And have that iconic sign, you know, that’s been there forever, and let’s bring that down to Main.”
The signage is in place and the ice cream is ready at T.W. Bonkers, Thrifty Ice Cream’s new home.
evening features a lively lineup of brews, blooms and beats. Sip your way through a local biergarten, get down and dirty with painting and floral arrangement, enjoy a Fauxcent tour of the boozy works in the Crocker’s collection and dance it out to live music or at the silent disco.
Meet Me at the Museum
Sept. 12, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Art observation and conversation serve as a gateway to engagement and social interaction during this tour designed for visitors living with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Advance registration is required. Tours facilitated by Artisan Mind and developed under the umbrella of Artists for Alzheimer’s. Some tours may be requested in American Sign Language, Cantonese, French and Spanish with a two-week advance notice — email education@ crockerart.org to inquire. To learn more about the Crocker’s exhibitions, programming and events visit crockerart.org.
Mountain Democrat photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt
T.W. Bonkers employee Macie Douglas scoops out those iconic Thrifty flavors for lucky customers.
Shingle Springs Cameron Park
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
It’sSHINGLE SPRINGS~CAMERON PARK Chamber of Commerce
President’s Corner
Colette Thiel
hard to believe fall is around the corner! As families wrap up summer and shift into back-to-school routines, we want to remind our community to shop local whenever possible. Every dollar spent here helps strengthen our local economy and support our neighbors.
We continue to grow our Chamber membership and are incredibly grateful for all our renewing members. Your ongoing support fuels our efforts to promote and advocate for local businesses.
Top 5 Reasons to Be a Chamber Member
1. Increased Visibility – Your business is featured in Chamber marketing, directories, and community events.
2. Networking Opportunities – Make valuable connections at mixers, luncheons, and business events.
3. Credibility – Chamber membership adds professional credibility and community trust.
4. Advocacy – We give your business a voice with local leaders and government entities.
5. Resources & Support – Access promotional tools, educational opportunities, and peer collaboration.
Upcoming September Events
Inaugural Bags & Beers Cornhole Tournament
Saturday, September 13, 2025 | Shingle Springs Community
Center. Join us for a day of fun and fundraising as we host our first-ever cornhole tournament to benefit the Chamber! We are currently looking for sponsors, players, and food trucks to join the fun.
Junction Jamboree – Summer Farewell
Sunday, September 14, 2025. Celebrate the close of summer with live music, food, local vendors, and family-friendly fun! This Summer Spectacular is one of our most anticipated events of the year—you won’t want to miss it.
Monthly Networking Mixer
Thursday, September 4 at 5:30 PM, The Breakroom, Shingle Springs. Connect with fellow members and local professionals in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Monthly Networking Luncheon
Wednesday, September 25, featuring Siri Nelson, President/ CEO of Marshall Medical Center. Come hear updates from one of our region’s top healthcare leaders and learn what’s ahead for Marshall Medical and our local medical community. Now is the perfect time to get involved and stay connected. If you’re not yet a member, we’d love to have you join us!
Colette Thiel, President Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce
The SS/CP Chamber Needs Volunteers!
The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce needs volunteers to spend a few hours a month helping the chamber with its events and management. The payback is helping your local business advocates support the community in which
SEPTEMBER
September (Fridays to Sundays) –CP Rotary Club Observatory
From 8:30pm to 10:30 pm, weather permitting, the observatory is open to the public on weekend evenings. Trained docents show the many celestial wonders of the universe through two 14-inch telescopes. Folsom Lake College, El Dorado Center, Campus Drive (continue through the back parking lots to the left of the observatory gate). For info and closure updates, call (530) 642-5621, Ext. 9. September – Support Small Businesses and Keep It Local Shop locally by visiting the various shops and restaurants in El Dorado County!
they live and serve, while striving to make Shingle Springs and Cameron Park wonderful places in which to live! We have several key positions opening right now. Get involved today! Please contact Colette Thiel@ ThielHomes.com for more information.
Shingle Springs Cameron Park
Events
September 7 – Farmers Market (Now Year ‘Round) Sundays between 10am and 1pm, come shop our
Tregion’s most popular market with more produce and commodities than ever before. Choose from fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade honey and jams, cheeses, and other household favorites. For more information, contact Jim Coalwell at (530) 622-1900 or email jim@redshack.com.
September 4 –After Dark Networking Mixer 5:30 PM, The Breakroom, Shingle Springs. Connect with fellow members and local professionals in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
September 12 – Youth & Events Barn Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Come and celebrate the Youth & Events Barn Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting. 2pm. September 13 – Inaugural
Bags & Beers Cornhole Tournament
Shingle Springs Community Center. Join us for a day of fun and fundraising as we host our first-ever cornhole tournament to benefit the Chamber! 11am-4pm. We are currently looking for sponsors, players, and food trucks to join the fun.
September 14 –Junction Jamboree – Summer Farewell Celebrate the close of summer with live music,
Join the Chamber
food, local vendors, and family-friendly fun! This Summer Spectacular is one of our most anticipated events of the year—you won’t want to miss it. 12pm-6pm.
September 20 –Placerville Third Saturday Art Walk Free! Enjoy the Art Walk on Placerville’s Main Street between 5-8pm. Artist demos, music at the Bell Tower, wine and drink specials, and more!
September 25 –Monthly Networking Luncheon
Featuring Siri Nelson, President/CEO of Marshall Medical Center. Come hear updates from one of our region’s top healthcare leaders and learn what’s ahead for Marshall Medical and our local medical community. Now is the perfect time to get involved and stay connected. If you’re not yet a member, we’d love to have you join us!
MORE THINGS TO EXPLORE: Saturdays - Placerville Speedway Placervillespeedway.com. (530) 344-7592
he Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce, originally formed as the Shingle Springs Business and Professional Association, Inc. in December 1967. It works to promote the area, encouraging business and industrial investment to provide the foundation for a solid community. The Chamber’s mission statement reflects this premise: “To advocate, promote and preserve the quality of life in our Chamber Community, by means of a strong, healthy and diverse business community.”
application.
Applications are now open for Folsom Lake Symphony’s Young Artist Competition with a Sept. 30 deadline. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony.com.
Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “Men on Boats” through Sept. 20. For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre. org.
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “You Can’t Take It With You” through Sept. 14. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
California Stage in Sacramento presents “The Lehman Trilogy” through Sept. 28. For more information visit calstage.org.
Tickets are on sale for The Robert Cray
Band at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom on Nov. 14 at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.
Word of Mouth Storytelling is seeking storytellers for its “Love Bites, Stories from the Dating World” show to take place on Sept. 14 in Placerville. To pitch a story idea call (650) 274-6041 or email wordofmouthstory@gmail. com.
Arts and Culture El Dorado will host Water Ways: El Dorado Irrigation District’s Centennial at Placerville’s Switchboard Gallery through Oct. 5. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Reform to Restoration, French Art from Louis XVI to Louis XVIII from the Horvitz
Upstairs Apartment$2000 Per Month
2 bedrooms, 1.5 bath Townhouse $1900 Per Month
The complex is meticulously maintained both externally and internally
The amenities are as follows:
• In-unit washer and dryer • Seasonal Pool & Spa • On-site owner residency
Call 530-676-0220 and leave a message. Shown by appointment only.
Collection through Sept. 14; 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; and Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030. For more information visit crockerart.org.
Registration is now open for The Center for Violence Free Relationships’ annual Drive Fore Change Golf Tourney at X Golf in the EDH Town Center on Nov. 1. For tickets and more information visit thecenternow.org.
California Railroad Museum will present All Aboard for Story Time every Monday at 11 a.m. Visit californiarailroad.museum.
Placerville resident Russell Julien was honored last week for his 27 years on the job at McDonald’s in Placerville. Julien was given an award to commemorate his time with the organization by his manager Debbie.
“It feels very good! No more doing dishes,” said Julien of his retirement. “I have time to read my Sci-Fi books now.”
Julien, However will miss some of the job.
“My favorite part was cleaning the lobby,” he said. “I got to meet all different types of nice people.”
Julien said he will miss his coworkers, manager and the job he enjoyed doing for nearly three decades and is thankful for his time there.
Explore the history and beauty of the Old Flume Trail
The Old Flume Trail (also known as Red Shack Trail), located just outside Placerville, offers not only a picturesque hike but also a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Originally built around 1900, this trail now benefits from a newly built parking area by the Bureau of Land Management, making access safer and easier for hikers. If you enjoy combining history with your outdoor adventures, this trail is a must. Have you hiked the Old Flume Trail? Share your photos and experiences using #DayHikerCA!
A trail with a story
The trail was once a road leading to the river, crossing the historical ditch that channeled water from Placerville to the ranches in the Gold Hill area. You can read about George and John Luce, who managed the flume from 1920 to 1924. The wooden flume, which was believed to be the tallest in the county at 153 feet and spanning 750 feet between the ridges, no longer exists, but the land was gifted to the American River
Conservancy in 1999 for all to enjoy.
The trail experience
Though the trail is wide, it’s important to note that this hike ranges from moderate to difficult depending on your fitness level due to the steep descent into the canyon — about 800 feet in under a mile. The effort is worth it when you reach the South Fork of the American River. You’ll find yourself rock-hopping to a quiet spot just below Racehorse Bend Rapid, a perfect place to relax and enjoy the river. On my hike, it took me about 30 minutes to get from the parking lot to the river, as I paused to explore some spur trails along the way. However, the return trip took nearly an hour due to the steep incline. Remember to take your time, rest as needed and drink plenty of water on the way back up.
A
rewarding winter hike
This in-and-out trail is less than a mile each way, but the scenery is stunning, especially at the halfway point by the river. My visit in January, on a sunny day, revealed lush moss draping the trees and vibrant green ferns unfurling along the canyon walls — truly a winter paradise.
Getting there
•From Auburn, take Highway 49 south toward Cool and continue toward Placerville.
• As you drive through the canyon, approximately four miles north of Placerville, look for Red Shack Road on your right.
• The trailhead is directly across the street.
• If you’re hungry after your hike, Red Shack is a great stop for pulled pork sandwiches or a slice of apple pie when it’s open.
Tips for hiking the Old Flume Trail
• Fitness level: This trail’s steep descent and ascent can be challenging, so make sure you’re prepared. Trekking poles can be helpful, and sturdy
shoes are a must.
• Water and breaks: Take plenty of water, especially on warm days, and take your time on the return climb — there’s no rush when the scenery is this beautiful.
• Trail conditions: The trail is accessible year-round, but winter and early spring hikes showcase the lush vegetation and offer cooler temperatures for the climb.
Directions recap
• Head out on Highway 49 south from Auburn toward Cool, continuing on to Placerville.
• Look for Red Shack Road on the right, about four miles north
of Placerville. The trailhead is directly across the street.
Have you explored the quiet spots along the South Fork? Share your favorite views and tag @ MaryWestHikes! Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California.
Mary West Outdoor columnist
Photos by Mary West
The Old Flume Trail offers a steep descent into the canyon — about 800 feet in under a mile but the effort is worth it when you reach the South Fork of the American River.
Courtesy photos
Russell Julien celebrates his 27 years on the job at McDonalds with manager Debbie.
