Two candidates emerge for vacant EDHCSD seat
What inspired you to run for the EDHCSD Board of Directors? The build-up began almost two years ago when I was foreperson of the Grand Jury and was intimately involved in the investigation into Kevin Loewen and other LLAD-related issues. There were several issues exposed that remain unaddressed and continue to alienate and disenfranchise the community. I was also involved in recalling a number of current directors a er some egregious decisions. The lawsuit with the county, the controversy over the QRS measures, the lack of progress at Bass Lake and Utility Corridor Bike Trail, questionable nancing of the golf course purchase, the lack of transparency to
MAX BENSON DEATH
Judge confirms three plea deals
Chris Woodard
El Dorado County Superior Court Judge Mark Ralphs has formally accepted plea agreements for three former sta members of the now-closed Guiding Hands School, bringing an end to a years-long criminal case stemming from the death of 13-year-old Max Benson.
Ralphs had postponed sentencing in June a er hearing concerns regarding the plea deals o ered by the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce. Following a review of case materials, he con rmed the agreements during a hearing on Aug. 8. Under the plea agreements, former administrator Cindy Keller and principal Staranne Meyers each received four years of probation. Former teacher Kimberly Wohlwend was sentenced to two years of probation and must attend a 52-week child abuse prevention program. None of the three will serve prison time.
The case drew widespread attention due to the circumstances of Benson’s death. Max, a student from Davis who had recently enrolled at Guiding Hands in El Dorado Hills, was restrained in a prone position for more than 90 minutes in 2018. Witnesses testi ed that he had stopped resisting long before the restraint ended, during which time he vomited and urinated on himself.
Court testimony indicated the school nurse did not respond to calls for assistance for 10 minutes and paramedics were not called until 25 minutes a er Max was found unconscious. He was transported to UC Davis Medical Center, where he
Brewfest pouring at a new location
Ann-Marie Fullmore
El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce
Now in its seventh year, the El Dorado Hills Brewfest has become more than just a tasting event; it’s a community tradition . Designed to celebrate the vibrant spirit of the region, the Brewfest brings together brewers and winemakers from across Northern California, plus food trucks and music for an a ernoon of shared avor and neighborhood pride. Brewfest has grown into a premier regional event in the heart of El Dorado Hills, showcasing the nest breweries. This year’s festivities take place Saturday, Sept. 6, at its new location. This year’s event will be held in El Dorado Hills Town Center and promises another unforgettable celebration of community, music and, of course, exceptional brews.
“Moving the event to Town Center aims to enhance visibility for the community and event partners, o ering a more accessible and vibrant setting for attendees. Our goal is to shine a spotlight on how beautiful and inviting our community is for those who are thinking of relocating or opening a business here,” EDH Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Debbie Manning explained. 2022 pricing is back with general admission tickets available for $50 (+ $4.27 fees), 4 p.m. entry; early entry tickets are $65 (+ $5.25 fees), 3 p.m. entry and a larger glass. The party pack includes four general admissions for $180 (+ $15.80 fees), 4 p.m. entry. Tickets are available online at eldoradohillsbrewfest.org.
What inspired you to run for the EDHCSD Board of Directors? As the El Dorado Hills Community Services District general manager for 20 years and having served on the EDHCSD board from 2010-18, I not only bring a 55-year parks career to the table but o er an intimate association with the El Dorado Hills community. I consider my time with the district an investment and recent chaos and challenges faced by the board of directors inspired my desire to step up to help their e orts to stabilize their policy deliberations. How long have you lived in El Dorado Hills? My wife, Cynthia and I, plus two daughters, have lived in El Dorado Hills since 1986. Cynthia taught for Buckeye
EDH volunteers scrub the sludge from historical headstones
Noel Stack Editor
Scrubbing history is never advised … unless you’re doing it the Save the Graves way.
About two dozen people gathered Saturday morning to clean historical headstones at Greenwood Pioneer Cemetery.
Led by Save the Graves President and self-professed taphophile Mike Roberts, National Charity League, Boys Team Charity and other volunteers took on the heat, the stickers on the unmowed grounds and the lack of a bathroom to ensure important pieces of El Dorado County’s colorful past survive for the next generation — at least.
“We’re prolonging the life of these headstones and that’s important,” Roberts told the crowd before work began, noting that when people can read the headstones it piques their interest in learning more about the people buried there, building a connection between past and present.
“This is not about doing this perfectly,” he stressed. “It’s about getting the nasty, crusty stu o . By doing that we could extend its life by 100 years.
That’s pretty cool.” Greenwood Pioneer Cemetery, located o Highway 193 north of Georgetown, was established in 1852. Its headstones are mostly granite and marble — some of that rock had to “come from around the Horn,” Roberts noted — with a few wooden markers as well, which the volunteers were advised not to touch. Roberts did encourage “hands on” the stone markers. “Love it. Own ■ See CLEANING, page A7
Village Life photos by Noel Stack
Save the Graves President and self-professed taphophile Mike Roberts, above, demonstrates how to properly clean a headstone during a volunteer event at Greenwood Cemetery on Aug. 9.
GARY KINGHORN WAYNE LOWERY
Above, Carrie and Tai Southerland clean up the White family marker during Saturday’s volunteer event. The Douglas family of El Dorado Hills, below, works on two headstones at the Greenwood Pioneer Cemetery. Left to right are Taylor, Ashley and Tucker.
See KINGHORN, page A7 ■ See LOWERY, page A4
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Now
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Young Frankenstein” through Aug. 24. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
The Mom Walk Sip and Stroll meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the El Dorado Hills Town Center amphitheater. It’s a great way to get active with other local moms. EDH Cars and Co ee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. The motto is “If it rolls, it goes.”
The El Dorado County Certi ed Farmers Markets take place at Burke Junction in Cameron Park, Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to noon, and at the EDH Community Services District on Harvard Way, Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy a vibrant selection of locally raised meats, farm-fresh produce, fresh-baked goods and handcrafted items from talented local artisans. With delicious food vendors and a welcoming community atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to support local businesses and enjoy the best of what the region has to o er.
The El Dorado Hills Town Center Farmers Market is held Sundays in the amphitheater near Brickyard & South Fork. Stop by 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy local certi ed produce, fresh owers, wine, baked goods, micro greens, skin care, handmade goods, baskets, jewelry, face painting, henna art and more. Live music from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Aug. 21
Summer Night City – The ABBA Tribute will perform at the Live on the Boulevard Summer Concert Series at the El Dorado Hills Town Center from 7-9 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
Aug. 22
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host a free Concert in the Park with Island of Black & White from 7-9:30 p.m. at Community Park. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
Aug. 23
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents a Tribute to the Music of Patsy Cline starring Joni Morris at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
Face in a Book in El Dorado Hills presents a book signing with Claire Booth, author of “Throwing Stones,” 4-6 p.m. For more information visit getyourfaceinabook.com.
Scott M. Thomas Productions presents Rob Ely’s Tribute to Elvis at 7:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
Aug. 24
Spanish Guitar Entertainment presents Benise at 3 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College in Folsom. For more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 6086888.
Aug. 26
Nica performs 7-9 p.m. for Tuesday Tunes in Theater Plaza, a weekly evening of live music, good vibes, and community connection at EDH Town Center.
Aug. 28
The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host a Member Headshot session with Jacki Pabst Photography at the Red Hawk Hotel from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and its Monthly Networking Luncheon at Red Hawk Casino’s Koto Bu et with speaker assemblymember Joe Patterson from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.
The Folsom Lake Symphony will perform at the Live on the Boulevard Summer Concert Series at the El Dorado Hills Town Center from 7-9 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
Aug. 29
Nica performs 7-9 p.m. for Tuesday Tunes in Theater Plaza, a weekly evening of live music, good vibes, and community connection at EDH Town Center.
High- ying fun and more at NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
El Dorado Hills residents gathered at Community Park Friday, Aug. 8, for an evening of camaraderie, food, games, demonstrations and more during the National Night Out celebration hosted by the El Dorado Hills Community Services District. Residents met and chatted with rst responders, nonpro t volunteers and other community group representatives at the booths set up around the park. They also had the opportunity to check out equipment used by the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce and El Dorado Hills Fire Department. Above, EDH residents watch as EDSO’s Echo 1 comes in for a landing at Community Park. At right, kids enjoy making art at the El Dorado Hills Arts Association tent set up for NNO.
Village Life photos by Noel Stack
County’s property tax billing, payments
Carla Hass El Dorado County Chief Administrative Office El Dorado County Treasurer-Tax Collector K. E. Coleman recently announced a new partnership with InvoiceCloud, a leading provider of online billing and payment solutions. This collaboration represents a signi cant step forward in the county’s commitment to delivering a more modern, e cient and user-friendly property tax billing and payment experience.
“Our goal is to make it easier and more con-
venient for taxpayers to manage their property tax obligations,” said Coleman. “With InvoiceCloud, residents (property owners) will now have access to features such as paperless billing, payment reminders via text and email, pay-by-text, AutoPay and scheduled payments.”
El Dorado County is the rst county in California to o er a uni ed, digital property tax payment experience through Megabyte Systems and InvoiceCloud’s secure, self-service platform.
This modern solution provides taxpayers with exible digital payment options — including digital wallets like Apple Pay and PayPal — alongside real-time reminders and a streamlined interface designed to boost
engagement and reduce late payments. Nationally, InvoiceCloud implementations have demonstrated impressive results, including:
• An average 40% reduction in late payments
• Up to 49% increase in digital payment adoption
• Cost savings through increased paperless billing enrollment
The newly integrated InvoiceCloud solution with Megabyte Systems, o cially launched on June 25. Taxpayers will receive informational inserts with their property tax bills, which are scheduled to be mailed in September. Additional details are available on the El Dorado County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s website at eldoradocounty.ca.gov/
taxcollector. For assistance, taxpayers may call (530) 621-5800 to speak with a customer service representative, who can provide a registration link via text or email.
About InvoiceCloud
InvoiceCloud o ers modern digital payment, customer engagement, and outbound disbursement solutions. Serving over 3,200 customers across the utility, government, and insurance sectors, InvoiceCloud is a leader in the electronic bill presentment and payment space. Its SaaS platform enables continuous enhancements to the customer experience, driving higher adoption of digital payments, AutoPay and paperless billing. Learn more on the company’s website at InvoiceCloud.com.
Cheering for the home team
SCHOOL
Marshall staff and supporters cut ribbon at EDH facility
Fernando Diaz Marshall
In front of more than 200 invited guests, Marshall president and CEO Siri Nelson o cially cut the opening ribbon on the Marshall El Dorado Hills facility on Wednesday, Aug. 13, ushering in a new era of healthcare in the community. Speci cally designed to meet the needs of the area’s active residents, the new facility will open to patients on Aug. 25.
“We did it! I am grateful to everyone who has been on this journey with us,” said Nelson of the occasion. “This facility will be the premiere provider in the treatment of orthopedic and sports injuries for residents of all ages in El Dorado Hills. Our unique walk-in care clinic — the only one in the county for these services — is not only more convenient but also less costly than going to the emergency room. We’ve paired those services with complimentary programs like cardiology, family medicine, same-day primary care, podiatry, diagnostic imaging and laboratory services — so whatever it is that this community needs, we’ve got you and your family covered.”
The facility, formerly the Blue Cross building, was completely redesigned and rebuilt from the walls in to prioritize the patient experience. Marshall’s
El Dorado Hills Community Task Force, a committee comprised of area residents and leaders had a voice in every aspect of the project, from the needs of area residents and the services to be provided, to the design of the building and patient ow. Even the artwork on the walls was selected in con-
sultation with the El Dorado Hills Arts Association to ensure that the space re ects the surrounding community.
“Every component of this building was built by the voices of this community, and we’re so thankful for that,” noted Jon Haugaard, chair of Marshall’s Board of Directors. “It’s no secret we’ve got a lot of big names just down the hill, but no one knows this community better than Marshall, which means no one can take care of its residents the way Marshall can.
We’ve earned that trust over nearly 70 years. We value it dearly. When the community speaks, we answer the call.”
5-Day West Coast Getaway with San Diego Holiday November 26, 2025 through December 01, 2025
The 25,000 square-foot state-ofthe-art facility is home to 29 universal exam rooms, three advanced procedure rooms, diagnostic imaging, laboratory
services and a spacious 3,500-squarefoot physical therapy and rehabilitation space. With same-day appointments and walk-in care as well as extended hours, Marshall’s goal is to provide comprehensive, convenient care under one roof. The Marshall Foundation for Community Health provided $1 million in funding to make the new facility possible and secured a charitable gi from Robert and Star Pepper to complete the $375,000 in funding necessary to purchase the rst ZeroG 3D system west of Salt Lake City. Set to be installed later this year, ZeroG 3D is a robotic body-weight support system which will signi cantly enhance Marshall’s already highly rated physical therapy and rehabilitation program.
New trial date set for former EDCOE bus driver accused of sex crimes
Chris Woodard
The criminal trial for former El Dorado County O ce of Education bus driver Tarik Manasrah is now scheduled to begin Jan. 13, 2026, in Placerville. The new date comes a er the originally scheduled March 2025 trial was vacated. Manasrah faces eight felony sex charges and one misdemeanor charge stemming from allegations that he sexually abused developmentally disabled passengers while driving for EDCOE. Charges led by the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce include oral copulation, penetration, sodomy and sexual battery by force with a person incapable of giving consent. He remains in custody.
The allegations rst surfaced in 2023 when a student, identi ed in court documents as Jane Doe 1, claimed she had been sexually assaulted by her driver, whom she named as “Ty.” Investigators with the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce determined “Ty” was a nickname for Manasrah.
Doe 1, who had recently graduated from EDCOE’s Paci c Street Adult
Transition Program, told detectives that Manasrah moved her to the back of his van, which had tinted windows, and assaulted her. She said she had not reported the incident earlier because she feared him.
Detectives also interviewed a second alleged victim, Jane Doe 2, who also had developmental disabilities. Some of her statements raised concerns, including identifying Manasrah in a photo lineup as “my boyfriend” and saying he had told her to keep certain “hugs” a secret.
The DA’s case focuses on two adult victims, but a separate civil lawsuit led by parents alleges Manasrah also assaulted two children, ages 8 and 4. Multiple lawsuits, including a federal complaint, have been led against EDCOE, claiming inadequate supervision and failure to monitor Manasrah.
In an earlier statement, EDCOE said it was “deeply saddened by the serious and disturbing allegations” and has “cooperated fully with the investigation” since Manasrah’s arrest on Aug. 4, 2023. Jury selection for the criminal trial is expected to begin in December.
Union School District for 36 years while raising our family here. What skills/careers make you a strong candidate for the seat? Although I served as parks director for the city of Mission Viejo (1988-90), my primary experience stems from managing special districts. I have also supported nonpro t organizations, including serving as president of the California Park & Recreation Society, Sacramento Special Olympics, El Dorado Hills Rotary Club and the El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce. Currently I serve on the El Dorado Hills Promise Foundation Board — including the Bass Lake Regional Park Working Group and the Veterans’ Memorial Committee — the CSD CC&R Design Review Committee and as chair of the El Dorado County Parks & Recreation Commission. During my tenure as the district’s general manager, considerable focus was on assuring nancial stability for its future. The EDH Community Park was built in 1990 when the district’s tax base was relatively slim. It was quickly realized that expanding our scal e orts was vital. With development pending, it was critical to assure funds were available not only to acquire land and construct facilities but to assure that their future maintenance and operation was secure. Park impact fees were set so future residents would have recreation opportunities with minimal impact to existing residents. To assure adequate operational monies in the general fund, landscape and lighting assessment districts were established as a critical scal component. Equally important was administering a 30-year projection of deferred maintenance costs and setting aside funds annually in a reserve account.
What do you think are the EDHCSD’s most pressing issues? The district enjoys a strong, experienced and caring sta . To assure the continuance of quality employees, it is vital to bring stabil-
ity at the policy level. It is my goal to help the board of directors in their e orts to bring harmony to their policy deliberations, strengthen scal operations, assure transparency and set goals that address the current and long-term needs of our residents. Although I disagree with several recent decisions by the board, I don’t know what issues and options they faced in their closed session discussions. Hindsight is, of course, 20/20. We are where we are, but the resources exist to identify our problems, deliberate options publicly and set a course of action that serves all residents. What makes El Dorado Hills a great place to live and in what areas would you like to see improvement? Parks, schools and a quality lifestyle is why El Dorado Hills has grown from a small suburb of 7,000 in 1990 to over 50,000 residents today. Both daughters and our grandchildren continue to live locally. The quality park and recreation services of the CSD is a large reason for their calling El Dorado Hills their home.
Do you have a position on cityhood? The district recently initiated a process to study the feasibility of becoming a city. The El Dorado County Local Agency Formation Commission will conduct a comprehensive scal analysis and review an environmental report. If these studies determine that El Dorado Hills has the potential to incorporate, I strongly urge residents to closely deliberate the values of doing so. With a population of over 50,000, it is time for our community to take charge of its future. Currently the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors makes every e ort to balance the needs of El Dorado Hills with those of the entire county. This doesn’t always work with meeting local needs for a populated area in a county which is primarily rural and enjoys considerable open space. I proudly serve on the El Dorado Hills Citizens for Cityhood Executive Committee, which is helping the district fund these studies for consideration by our residents.
Lowery Continued from A1
Courtesy photo
Marshall leaders and guests are all smiles at the El Dorado Hills facility’s ribbon cutting event.
CALIFORNIA MATTERS by Dan Walters
Governor’s race shi
Kamala Harris’ penchant for strings of abstruse verbiage — popularly known as word salads — was one of several reasons her presidential campaign failed last year.
Her tendency was on display again when she recently announced she would not run for California governor a er making other candidates, political media and voters wait for months for her decision. Harris bowed out of the 2026 race in a written statement, saying, “I look forward to getting back out and listening to the American people, helping elect Democrats across the nation who will ght fearlessly, and sharing more details in the months ahead about my own plans.
“As we look ahead, we must be willing to pursue change through new methods and fresh thinking — committed to our same values and principles, but not bound by the same playbook,” she added.
A day later, Harris continued her parade of vague statements during a so ball interview with late night talk show host Steven Colbert, declaring the American system of government was broken. Pressed mildly to explain, Harris responded, “Well, but it’s also evident, isn’t it? But it doesn’t mean we give up.”
Whatever persuaded Harris not to seek the governorship, her announcement nally allows those who want the job to shi into a higher gear. Had she run, several of the hopefuls would probably have dropped out.
With her out of the picture, the eld remains crowded without a clear frontrunner.
“None of these candidates start out with statewide name recognition,” Garry South, a veteran Democratic strategist, told the Los Angeles Times.
That said, there does appear to be two fairly distinct levels of candidacy: Democrats with genuine shots at winning versus those who face an uphill
In a recent op-ed, Rep. Tom McClintock praised the socalled “Big, Beautiful Bill,” saying now we’ll see what it really does. For El Dorado County, that’s exactly the concern.
McClintock says the bill will help rural communities. But in reality, it takes away important funding from hospitals and families who depend on them.
struggle to be taken seriously.
At the moment, the higher tier includes Katie Porter, a former Orange County congresswoman who fell short in a U.S. Senate bid last year; Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, who has substantial private wealth and is backed by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (Editor’s note: she has since backed out as well); and Antonio Villaraigosa, the former mayor of Los Angeles.
The lower tier includes Xavier Becerra, a former state attorney general and Biden cabinet member; Toni Atkins, the former president pro tem of the state Senate; state schools Superintendent Tony Thurmond and former state Controller Betty Yee.
What about Republicans?
Riverside Sheri Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton are running, but the chances of a GOP win next year are in nitesimal. However, were the Democratic eld to remain large, fragmenting the Democratic vote, a Republican could nish second in the primary and win a spot on the general election ballot, essentially guaranteeing the Democratic nominee an easy win.
That’s what happened last year when Democrat Adam Schi indirectly helped Republican Steve Garvey place second in the U.S. Senate primary, thereby foregoing a general election duel with Porter.
When a clear Democratic frontrunner emerges in next year’s campaign for governor, the other Democrats will be competing for second place in the primary and a spot on the November ballot.
Meanwhile, another potential candidate could change the post-Harris dynamics: Los Angeles businessman Rick Caruso, a Republican-turnedDemocrat who lost the mayor’s race in 2022 and is reportedly weighing either another mayoralty bid next year, chal-
One of the biggest parts of the bill is a huge cut to Medicaid — more than $1 trillion over 10 years. In California, Medicaid is called Medi-Cal. It helps pay for healthcare for low-income families, children, seniors and people with disabilities. In El Dorado County, nearly one in ve people rely on it. Cutting Medi-Cal doesn’t just hurt those who use it. It puts stress on our whole health system. Rural hospitals depend on that funding to treat a large share of patients. In small communities like ours, where there aren’t many options, every dollar counts. Take Marshall Hospital in Placerville, for example. It’s a trusted local hospital. Like many rural hospitals, it operates on tight budgets and faces rising costs. A lot of its patients are on Medi-Cal or Medicare, which o en don’t pay enough to cover the actual cost of care.
The bill McClintock voted for will only make things worse. Less funding means more pressure on hospitals that are already stretched thin. Marshall isn’t the only one. Across the country, many rural hospitals are facing the same struggles. There are widespread concerns that these deep cuts to Medicaid will cause rural hospitals to shut down or cut services. When that happens, people lose access to care — and communities lose jobs and a key part of their local economy.
McClintock says the bill is balanced because it includes a $50 billion fund for rural hospitals. But we don’t know how that money will be handed out — or if it will go where it’s really needed. Experts say it doesn’t make up for the
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much larger cuts to Medicaid.
Here’s the big picture: rural hospitals are essential. They provide emergency care, maternity care and everyday medical services. When these hospitals have to cut back or close, it hurts entire communities.
People may have to drive hours for care. That delay can turn small problems into big ones. Seniors and families without transportation face even bigger challenges.
McClintock says the bill protects rural health care. But cutting Medicaid doesn’t protect anyone. It takes away the funding that helps keep rural hospitals open.
It’s no surprise this bill is unpopular.
According to a poll McClintock mentioned himself, only 29% of people support it, while 55% are against it.
People understand what’s at stake: their hospitals, their health care, their communities. When Washington threatens something that families depend on, they speak up — and they should.
McClintock seems annoyed by the strong pushback from his own constituents. But in America, speaking up isn’t a problem; it’s a right. Listening to voters isn’t a burden. It’s his job.
We don’t need partisan headlines or political spin. We need smart, local solutions. That means protecting programs like Medi-Cal and listening to doctors, nurses and patients — not just party leaders in Washington.
Rural hospitals can’t survive on promises. They need steady funding and leaders who understand what’s really happening on the ground.
Instead of celebrating a law that cuts more than $1 trillion from health care, our representatives should be working to strengthen it. That’s what real leadership looks like.
If you’re worried about what this bill means for your health
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• Hiring home health care or childcare services
• Traveling to treatment facilities
• Cash to use any way that you would like
According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives. This policy is easy to quote and underwrite — there are only three questions to answer for
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nancials and poorly designed funding mechanisms for park maintenance have all raised questions about the leadership and representation we have been getting from this current board.
How long have you lived in El Dorado Hills? I’ve lived in EDH just over 10 years, all in Serrano. We moved here from the Bay Area toward the end of my high-tech career. We moved to El Dorado Hills for the great schools as the kids were entering high school and middle school, the family-oriented environment and reduced congestion. What skills/careers make you a strong candidate for the seat? By training, I was an electrical engineer/computer science major out of UCLA and grad school in the same at USC. I navigated a range of management and executive positions at Silicon Valley rms from engineering, product management, business development and technical marketing.
I’m very analytical and dive deeply into the facts to assess the situation, opportunity and market needs. I’m a good listener and a strong long-range planner. I tend to build a consensus and get everyone on the same page. Getting to the source of CSD’s issues is going to take some serious time, commitment and attention to detail. If change is inevitable, it’s going to take some
died the following day.
persuasion, skilled communication and consensus building, both across the organization and throughout the community. It’s a tough job, but I’ve seen tougher. It’s going to take a fresh perspective and someone who is willing to represent the voice of the public on these key issues. That’s what I bring to the table.
What do you think are the EDHCSD’s most pressing issues? There are so many problems with funding sources (LLAD’s, Mello Roos funds, etc.) that have alienated di erent communities, but will be challenging to update. We need a realistic plan to reapportion assessments without compromising revenue and programs through a transition.
We need to develop a number of amenities to support the community’s growth. We’ve spent a lot of money on land acquisition with very little park development or asset improvements.
The pending litigation with the county is going to be very expensive and is largely unnecessary. We need to restore a better relationship with Placerville and stop seeking to cover up problems of our own making with more lawsuits.
There is no working master plan by which the district can make nancial decisions. We can’t prioritize major
Investigations by the California Department of Education concluded that Guiding Hands sta had violated state rules on student restraint by using excessive and unnecessary force. The CDE suspended the school’s certi cation in the weeks following Benson’s death and the campus in the EDH Business Park closed permanently in 2019.
Benson’s death inspired Senate Bill 483, also known as Max Benson’s Law, which bans the use of prone (face-down) restraint in all California schools. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the bill into law in January 2024.
The three defendants were indicted in 2022 a er
Cleaning
it,” he said. “Put your hands on it and make sure it’s solid.”
Roberts made note of wobbly headstones, which he said would be cared for and restored by an advanced team. “The last thing we want to do is hurt anything we came up here to help.”
Demonstrating the cleaning technique using “a lot of water” and D/2 cleaning solution, Roberts rst gently scraped a marble headstone with a plastic scraper and then soaked it using a pump sprayer. There’s no running water at Greenwood Cemetery so Roberts and his wife Michele Martin lled nearly three dozen buckets full of water and trucked them out to the site. Using gentle brushes and the D/2, the white marble started to come back to life.
Before teams headed o to headstones of their own, Roberts reiterated, “How much water?”
“A lot,” everyone replied.
Mother and daughter team Carrie and Tai Southerland, 14, picked up where Roberts le o at the White family marker. The White family ran a brewery in Greenwood, according to information provided by Save the Graves. Louis and Caroline “Cora” Birch White had three children who
lenging incumbent Karen Bass, or a shot at the governorship.
Caruso is very wealthy and could draw heavy support from California’s business community, particularly if he were to survive the primary and face a liberal Democrat such as Porter.
asset improvements because we don’t have plans, priorities or realistic costs and funding details well understood. CSD needs to restore trust back with the community. The divisiveness has reached epic proportions. That’s going to take someone who wants to listen to the community and is committed to nding workable solutions.
What are your personal goals if elected? I would like to get to the bottom of the real issues facing CSD and propose workable solutions based on community input. I’m playing the long game as change won’t happen overnight. I will serve no special interests or campaign donors. I don’t have higher political goals and am not in this for the money. I plan to donate all the compensation I receive from this position to organizations involved in the recovery and rehabilitation of survivors of child trafcking.
What makes El Dorado Hills a great place to live and in what areas would you like to see improvement? EDH is obviously beautiful and nicely suburban. It’s very safe and generally congestion-free. There’s a lot of concern how that could change with more growth and the development of Costco.
With resources we have at our disposal, we should be planning and devel-
a grand jury review. Legal proceedings were repeatedly delayed until May 2025, when the women entered their pleas. Wohlwend’s plea to involuntary manslaughter carried a potential prison sentence, but the plea agreement allowed her to serve probation instead. Keller and Meyers pleaded to reduced misdemeanor charges.
When the case came before Ralphs for sentencing in June, the courtroom was lled to capacity with community members and supporters of Benson’s family. During that hearing, Dustin Collier, an attorney representing the family in a separate civil case, delivered a detailed victim impact statement condemning the plea agreements.
died just days apart, likely of a disease, in December 1879, the marker notes.
Tai said she really wanted to participate in the headstone cleaning event a er learning about the opportunity. She and her mom, who also placed ags on veterans’ graves this past Memorial Day, are part of the National Charity League in El Dorado Hills, which had several volunteers on site Aug. 9.
“You feel like you’re showing respect to people of the past,” Carrie shared, adding that seeing a stone go from dingy to readable and mostly clean is gratifying.
Ashley Douglas and her children Taylor, 15, and Tucker, 12, of El Dorado Hills, also enjoyed the cleaning process. “This is very satisfying,” Ashley said, “and the location is beautiful.”
Ashley and Taylor worked on the nearly unreadable headstone of Hermann Haiz, who died in 1887, while Tucker tackled the grime on the Lee marker. Alexander and Mary Lee operated Lee’s American Exchange Hotel in Greenwood in the later 1800s, according to Save the Graves information. Alexander died of the Russian u epidemic at age 47 in 1890, making
We waited for months to learn whether Harris would run. Now we’re waiting for Caruso.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonpro t, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
oping better assets for families that help increase property values. There hasn’t been enough development in the last decade to accommodate EDH growth. We need a newer aquatic center, more courts, bike trails and more soccer elds. Bass Lake could be a wonderful open space eco-preserve but currently isn’t set up for much public use. We need to get rid of the stagnation and dissension within this current board that have cost us millions and lost years of potential improvements.
Do you have a position on cityhood? I think we have to wait for the economic viability study for anyone to have any serious conviction either way. I’m more concerned about the process and the lack of transparency surrounding the initiative. I’ve been critical of the lack of public involvement and the reliance on CSD funds without showing the community is behind the e ort. I’d be very concerned that cityhood can look very good on paper, but 10-20 years down the road, economic pressure and mounting costs can lead to longterm problems. Cityhood can be great, but it’s quite an obligation and at this point we don’t have the information or visibility to the process to alleviate many people’s valid concerns. Let’s wait and see.
Collier described the defendants’ actions as tantamount to making themselves Benson’s “judge, jury and executioner” and criticized what he called “an unbelievable slap on the wrist” a er “seven years waiting for justice.”
Following the statement, Ralphs said he had not previously reviewed the extensive grand jury evidence and decided to delay sentencing until he could fully examine the case le. He cautioned that if he rejected the plea agreements, the matter could proceed to trial.
Acceptance of the pleas closes the criminal prosecution, but a civil lawsuit led by Benson’s family is pending.
Mary a widow for the third time.
Boys Team Charity of El Dorado Hills participants Jonathan Marz and his sons Ben, 17, and Jon, 12, worked on a newer plot. Jonathan said he and his boys thought headstone cleaning was an interesting volunteer option. “It’s a little history, a little adventure and a good opportunity to give back,” he explained.
The next opportunity to give back and scrub a piece of history comes Saturday, Sept. 20, at Placerville Union
Cemetery on Bee Street, 9 a.m. to noon. History bu s and those interested in El Dorado County’s in uential characters should also mark their calendars for the Save the Graves 2025 — Women of Character event at Placerville Union Cemetery, where actors dressed in period garb will share enthralling stories of some of the region’s most remarkable women. For more information about volunteering or Save the Graves events visit savethegraveseldorado.org.
VH
V illage H OMES
Patricia Seide
CalDRE #00892540 (916) 712-1617 patricia.seide@ cbnorcal.com
6529 Goya Way, El Dorado Hills
3,364 square feet
4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths 0.16-acre property
$1,549,999
MLS #225086601
Updated EDH home epitome of elegance
Step into re ned luxury, where timeless design meets modern sophistication at this gorgeous Serrano Country Club property.
The meticulously updated residence showcases a stunning chef’s kitchen appointed with custom shaker-style cabinetry, quartz countertops, a butler’s pantry, drop zone and an elevated Monogram appliance suite that includes a 48-inch gas range, paneled refrigerator and freezer, brass hood, microwave, paneled dishwasher and dual wine refrigerators. Enjoy meals in the kitchen’s eating nook or step through the arched doorway adjacent to the butler’s pantry into the formal dining room.
The living room seamlessly ows into the kitchen. This bright, relaxing space is the ideal retreat a er a delicious meal.
Expansive 10-inch-wide plank engineered hardwood oors extend throughout the open-concept layout, designed for e ortless entertaining and everyday elegance. Other home upgrades include designer LED lighting, fresh paint and a new vanity and toilet in the powder room.
The main level also o ers a sophisticated den that could
also be used as an o ce as well as an updated guest bathroom and private guest suite. Upstairs, discover a spacious lo , two secondary bedrooms with a shared bathroom and a luxurious primary suite that features a tray ceiling, lots of natural light, a spa-inspired bathroom with a corner soaking tub, dual sinks and a separate shower as well as access to the impressive walk-in closet. A tiled California room with a stone replace invites seamless indoor-outdoor living, complemented by a saltwater pool and spa plus an outdoor kitchen featuring premium Twin Eagles and Dometic appliances.
The home has an attached three-car garage with epoxy ooring as well as an owned solar-power system to enhance comfort and e ciency.
Serrano is one of El Dorado Hills’ most renowned luxury neighborhoods with an award-winning golf course, country club, trails, parks and immaculate landscaping. The gated community is close to shopping, restaurants, great schools and Highway 50. Interested in a private tour of this beautiful Goya Way property in El Dorado Hills? Contact Realtor Pat Seide at (916) 712-1617, patricia.seide@cbnorcal.com.
Rita Rudner will bring the laughs to Folsom
Stacy Hanson Harris Center for the Arts
arris Center for the Arts hosts comedienne Rita Rudner on Sept. 6.
A house- lling favorite in Las Vegas since she opened as one of the hottest tickets in town in June 2000, Rudner is known for her epigrammatic one-liners. Over the course of a multi-year run she sold almost two million tickets, grossed over $100 million and become the longest-running solo female comedy show in the history of Las Vegas. She was named Las Vegas’s Comedian of The Year nine years in a row and in 2006 received The Nevada Ballet’s Woman Of The Year Award. In October 2017 she was given the Casino Entertainment Legend Award. Rudner moved to New York at the age of 15 to become a dancer on Broadway. She appeared in several shows, including the original productions of “Follies” and “Mack and Mabel.” It was while in “Annie” on Broadway that she began exploring the comedy clubs of Manhattan. In the early 1980s, Rudner took a full-time leap from chorus lines to punch lines and was soon a regular guest on both “Late Night With David Letterman” and “The Tonight Show.” Rudner’s rst solo HBO special, “Rita Rudner’s One Night Stand,” was nominated for several awards, as was her eponymous English BBC television show that later appeared in the USA on A&E. Rudner’s two one-hour specials for HBO, “Born to Be Mild” and “Married Without Children,” were ratings stand-
outs and she performed all over the country, lling Carnegie Hall in New York three times. In 2008 “Rita Rudner: Live From Las Vegas” was PBS’s rst ever stand-up comedy special.
Obama and the Democratic Senator Harry Reid. In 2012, Rudner and Bergman wrote and performed “The Rita Rudner Show” for BBC radio in London. She also appeared in the Showtime comedy special “Rita Rudner and Three Potential Ex-Husbands.” In 2018, Rudner’s 10th TV special was released — “A Tale Of Two Dresses.” The special also featured the couple’s singer/songwriter daughter Molly Bergman.
Rudner has written several books: her bestselling non- ction titles, “Naked Beneath My Clothes,” “Rita Rudner’s Guide to Men” and “I Still Have It … I Just Can’t Remember Where I Put It,” plus the novels “Tickled Pink” and “Turning the Tables.” The audio version of “Naked Beneath My Clothes” received a Grammy nomination.
She helped write the 2001 and 2003 Oscar shows with Steve Martin and the 2002 Oscar broadcast with Whoopi Goldberg.
Rudner is a frequent collaborator with her writer/ producer husband of 30 years, Martin Bergman. The couple’s rst produced lm script was “Peter’s Friends.” The script was nominated for a WGA Best Screenplay Award and Rudner won Best Supporting Actress at the American Comedy Awards.
The couple’s second lm project, a TV movie called “A Weekend In The Country,” starred Rita, Jack Lemmon, Dudley Moore, Richard Lewis, Christine Lahti, Betty White and Faith Ford. Bergman and Rudner’s last lm, “Thanks,” premiered at the 2011 Palm Springs International Film Festival, won several awards on the lm festival circuit and was bought by and frequently aired on Showtime.
In 2003, Rudner launched from Las Vegas her rst syndicated daily TV show, “Ask Rita,” which featured a panel of celebrities lightheartedly attempting to solve personal problems submitted by members of the public; it ran for two years. For her work on the show, American Women In Radio and Television awarded Rudner a Gracie Allen Award for Best Program Host. In 2009, Rudner, Bette Midler and Sheryl Crow joined forces to perform a fundraiser for President
In June 2016 Rudner was invited and honored to speak about her career and technique in comedy at Cambridge University, England. In 2017 she was invited by Oprah Winfrey to appear on a cruise to Alaska that Oprah did in partnership with Holland America.
In September 2018, Rudner appeared at the Laguna Playhouse in the new musical comedy “Two’s A Crowd.” She and Bergman have previously collaborated at the Playhouse on two plays which they cowrote — “Room 776” and “Tickled Pink” — as well as “Act 3 …” written by David Ambrose and Claudia Nellens. “Two’s A Crowd” was staged o -Broadway in New York in 2019, and plans were in the works to transfer it to a larger New York theater in 2020 when the pandemic forced those plans to be abandoned. In 2022, Rudner returned to live performance with a series of concerts across the USA. Her memoir “My Life In Dog Years” was published in December of that year, and in January 2023 she appeared at the Laguna Playhouse in the world premier of “STAGED,” a new comedy written by Martin Bergman and her. In February, she featured as a guest star in an episode of “Magnum P.I.” on NBC.
Rita Runder takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at the Harris Center, 10 College Parkway on the Folsom Lake College campus in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.
Courtesy photo
For decades, Rita Rudner has kept audiences laughing. See her live in Folsom next month.
Atrium
Every bloom tells a story at Bold Botanicals, now on display at The Atrium Gallery EDH. Meet the artist behind the blooms, Polly Dahms Gray, at an artist’s reception on Aug. 23. Born in Iowa, Dahms Gray was surrounded by animals and nature. With a family of farmers and artists, she began taking art classes at a young age and relocated to California where she went to school. Soon after graduating from University of California, Berkeley, she opened her first business Polly Anne Designs, Smiles@Work and then eventually her own store in Texas. She
EDH
Creative writer Erin Dealey makes art to share
Jordan Hyatt-Miller Arts and Culture El Dorado
Iinterviewed Erin Dealey shortly after she returned home from Sugarloaf Fine Arts Camp where she heads the theater department, teaches drama, playwriting and creative writing, and is known by the honorific Drama Mama.
“Camp was so fantastic, but it always is,” Dealey said of the most recent year, her 39th at Sugarloaf. “When you surround yourself with amazing creatives and the wonderful, talented kids of El Dorado County, it’s always magical. Sugarloaf is a unique and treasured part of our summer and I’m really honored to be part of it.”
Before Dealey became a beloved children’s book author, playwright and educator, she was a college student majoring in Math with a love for theater, art and language, but no expectation of a career in the arts.
“None of it was planned,” Dealey recalled. “I’ve noticed that something happens — the arts just keep finding you, no matter what you think you’re supposed to be doing, and that has been the case all along for me.”
Dealey ended up graduating as an English major and art minor and soon became an English teacher. At her first school, she was asked if she would consider teaching theater as well.
“I said, ‘Sure! How hard can it be?’” Dealey laughed. “Well, I started taking classes because I realized that maybe it can be hard.”
Those classes — at places like the Ashland Shakespeare Festival in Oregon and Oxford University in England — gave her the tools to help her students, “find their creative selves and find their voices,” as she has been doing ever since.
As an author with more than 20 published children’s books, Dealey’s inspiration comes, first and foremost, from a sense of fun.
“I’m fully aware that I’m probably an 8 year old at heart, or maybe a 10 year old,” she explained. “If I read something and I’m bored, then I know that kids are going to be bored, too.” When she’s working on a new book, her process starts with pencil and paper.
“I’m very visual. I approach writing as a language art — I just play with words instead of clay.” As she revises — which she estimates is about 80% of her writing process — she still works visually, taking a pen to her drafts and covering them with circles and arrows.
“It ends up looking like some kind of crazy map,” she said.
Finally, the book goes out into the
world with the help of a community — through feedback from her writing group, in collaboration with an illustrator, with readings and author talks for children at schools and bookstores.
She’s often a guest at Face in a Book in El Dorado Hills Town Center.
Dealey also writes plays, including a series of one-acts distributed by Uproar Theatrics, a company started by several Sugarloaf alumni.
“When you write a play, it’s very similar to writing a picture book, but instead of an illustrator creating the visuals, it’s the theater group,” she said.
“You get to see all of these different variations of the world that you gave them the words to. It’s really fun.”
Her theatrical works have become a hit with high schools, providing the material for award-winning performances everywhere from Sacramento’s Lenaea Festival to provinces in Canada; she is also working directly with local high school theater programs on upcoming productions.
Reflecting on her work, “the theme that keeps coming up is kindness and community,” she said. “I think my message is for us to make art, whatever that means to you, and share it with one another. That’s how this community will continue to grow.”
It’s a theme not just in her life, but in her art. In her most recent children’s
book,
as a teacher in local schools and as an author and play-
helps our community grow kinder and more creative in turn.
Dealey’s upcoming children’s book, “Squirrel Draws Big Feelings” (Beaming Books, 2026), will hit shelves next April. More information — and a weekly KidLit blog — can be found at erindealey.com.
Science Fiction Story
“Just Flowers” (Sleeping Bear Press, illustrated by Kate Cosgrove, 2024), a “budding botanist” named Izzy helps the community “blossom with kindness.” At Sugarloaf,
wright, Dealey continues to help inspire generations of kids like Izzy — and
Courtesy photos
For Erin Dealey, left of center and bespectacled, surrounded by friends and fellow artists, community grows when people make art, whatever that means to them, to share with one another.
ARC offers a bevy of fall inspired events, workshops and more
The American River Conservancy o ers a slew of arts events, tours, hikes, workshops and more lined up for the fall season. All programs require online registration and are subject to change, No dogs will be allowed unless otherwise stated. To register for an event visit arconservancy.org/event. A detailed email will be sent a er reservation.
Book club: “Is A River Alive?” by Robert Macfarlane
Sept. 4 & 18, 7-8:30 p.m. — Join ARC for a twopart discussion book club. “Is A River Alive?” at its heart is a single, transformative idea: that rivers are not mere matter for human use but living beings — who should be recognized as such in both imagination and law. Inspired by the activists, artists and lawmakers of the young ‘Rights of Nature’ movement, Macfarlane takes the reader on an exhilarating exploration of the past, present and futures of this ancient, urgent concept. “Is a River Alive?” ows like water from the mountains to the sea, over three major journeys.
The rst is to northern Ecuador, where a miraculous cloud-forest and its rivers are threatened with destruction by gold mining. The second is to the wounded rivers, creeks and lagoons of southern India, where a desperate battle to save the lives of these waterbodies is under way. The third is to north-eastern Quebec, where a spectacular wild river — the Mutehekau or Magpie — is being defended from death by damming in a river-rights campaign. Braiding together these journeys is the life story of the fragile chalk stream who rises a mile from Macfarlane’s house and ows through his own years and days.
Passionate, immersive and revelatory, “Is a River Alive?” is at once Macfarlane’s most personal and most political book to date. It is a book that will open hearts, spark debates and challenge perspectives. Lit throughout by other minds and voices, it invites us radically to reimagine not only rivers but also life itself. At the center of this vital, beautiful book is the recognition that our fate ows with that of rivers — and always has. Mature 15-year-olds to adults welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
GPS detox: navigate without a phone Sept. 6, 2-4 p.m. — Nature is always making a map for us, and the land is full of clues and signs, though most have been trained out of this awareness by digital tech. Attendees will learn techniques for reading the landscape, expanding awareness and amplifying perception used by wildlife trackers to forage and navigate. If you’ve ever wondered about how humans survived and thrived in wild environments or questioned how to keep yourself from getting lost without using GPS, this talk will give you more knowledge and the con dence to safely wander o the beaten path. Jessica Carew Kra is a California naturalist, wild food forager and author of “Why We Need to Be Wild: One Woman’s Quest for Ancient Human Answers to 21st Century Problems” (Sourcebooks, 2023). Responsible 10-year-olds to adults welcome. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
Fundamentals of Sogetsu Ikebana, classic ower arranging
Sept. 7, Oct. 19 and Nov. 16, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Instructor Yasmin Spiegel is a “Sensei“ (teacher) in the Sogetsu school of Ikebana: Japanese ower arranging. She is at home with both traditional Sogetsu forms and more modern sculptural arrangements. Spiegel has provided demonstrations and taught classes in Sogetsu at Wakamatsu Farms, the Sacramento Home and Garden Show, Davis Flower Arrangers, the Sacramento Floral Arrangers Guild and Ikebana International. Ages 8 and older with adult supervision. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
Schedule:
• Sept. 7 — Sun owers and Rough Horsetail
• Oct. 19 — Fruiting plants
•Nov. 16 — Cornucopia in a basket
Process acorns into our Sept. 13, 9-11 a.m. — Last fall was a mast year for the oaks here in the foothills. Let’s gather together to prepare and enjoy acorns — a superfood that native peoples have valued for generations. Acorns are nutritious, shelf stable and, surprise, delicious. Bring your curiosity and open your mind to the possibilities of this abundant and free wild food source. Attendees will learn how to choose quality acorns, how to dry, crack and prepare these tree nuts for eating, then sample some prepared acorn foods. Laura Schmitz is an ARC supporter and now a certi ed California Naturalist and plant lover. She loves to forage for choice wild edibles and to teach these skills to others. Ages 9 and older welcome. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
on KVIE, receiving an award for her oral and still life painting and on Idea factory, HGTV’s show the “Ultimate Crash.”
Dahms Gray’s work invites art admirers into a world where every bloom tells its own story. Bold Botanicals showcases her deep sensitivity to each ower’s unique personality. Through careful attention to veining, movement and form, the artist captures not just how a ower looks — but how it feels. Her use of pewter, wax, and oils adds rich texture and depth, allowing the subject to truly take center stage.
Driven by curiosity and a constant desire to evolve, Dahms Gray continues to explore new techniques and materials. With every collection, there’s something new to discover — new textures, new layers, new energy.
Bold Botanicals runs through Sept. 14 at The Atrium Gallery in El Dorado Hills Town Center, 4364 Town Center Blvd., Building 102 atrium lobby. The artist’s reception takes place 5-8 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23. For more information about Dahms Gray and her work visit instagram.com/polly_ dahms_gray. Located in the heart of El Dorado Hills Town Center, The Atrium Gallery EDH is an innovative destination for art enthusiasts and community members to experience exceptional creativity and cultural connection. With a mission to showcase talented artists and foster community engagement, the Atrium Gallery EDH brings art, inspiration and purpose together in collections for the community to enjoy. Atrium Gallery EDH is proud to give back; 10% of all proceeds from this showcase will bene t the El Dorado Hills Arts Association.
A spice rack as a medicine chest
Sept. 14, 1-3 p.m. — In this class Candis Cantin will help attendees understand common spices as potent herbal remedies. You will learn how to make teas, honey blends, oils, tinctures and poultices. Also, the bene ts of herbal baths will be covered, as well as how various herbs can be used for their aromas for calming and sleep. Cantin has over 40 years practical experience as an herbalist, herbal and nutritional counselor and teacher of holistic lifestyle principles. She has owned and directed the EverGreen Herb Garden and School of Integrative Herbology located in the Sierra foothills, where there are extensive organic botanical gardens to view. Responsible 10-year-olds and older are welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
Moonlight mountain bike ride
Oct. 6, 7-8:30 p.m. — Enjoy this moonlit adventure with experienced rider Tom Judy. Judy will take this group on an easy-paced 1-1.5-hour ride through Cronan Ranch. Cronan is a perfect place to view the night sky under a full moon. Judy has 37 years of mountain biking experience, and most of it (23 years) riding and leading mountain bike tours on the Divide. Mike Bean, who will be riding sweep, is also an avid biker who has helped build miles of trails on ARCacquired land. Meeting location: Pilot Hill area. Ages 15 and older welcome.
Wakamatsu open farm day
Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Placer Land Trust and American River Conservancy are partnering up for this unique Open Farm Day at Wakamatsu Farm. Come early for a guided bird walk (8-10 a.m.) or arrive later for Japanese history, haikus (poetry), lectures, origami, Ikebana demonstrations and more. Wakamatsu is the site of the rst Japanese colony in America. The day may include a self-guided walking tour of Wakamatsu Farm, a stroll to Okei-san’s 1871 gravesite and Charles Graner’s original 1850’s farmhouse or enjoy a stroll around the lake on the 1.5mile AWD wheelchair-accessible trail. On-site interpreters can share information and answer questions about Wakamatsu Farm’s human and natural history. Bring a picnic and chair to sit and relax. Amenities are limited, so plan for rugged outdoor leisure. Steady rain or temperatures over 100 degrees will cancel. “Lessons from Manzanar” interactive presentation: We can learn from past mistakes, will take place at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Hear about the history, experience and impact of Japanese American incarceration at Manzanar in the 1940s and engage in a conversation about its relevance today. Followed by time for discussion and Q&A.
A night of wine and stars
Oct 18, 7-11 p.m. —Enjoy wine with placid views of the fall night sky. Constellations and mythologies will be explained. Telescopes will reveal stellar wonders led by majestic Saturn, the distant planet Neptune, the famous Ring Nebula, the Andromeda Galaxy, globular clusters, the Perseus Double Cluster and glorious colored double stars. If attendees are lucky, they might spot the “Intergalactic Voyager” as it passes through the inner solar system. Wine sold by the glass or bottle provided by David Girard Vineyards. Quiet, well-behaved attendees of all ages are welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
Tracks, scat and all that!
Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Hone your skills as a nature detective and learn how to identify an area’s wildlife residents by the signs they leave behind. As people wander through natural areas, they o en don’t see the wildlife that lives there. They usually know we’re coming long before we can see them, and many of the animals are nocturnal so we don’t see them during our daytime activities. Join husband and wife team David Rosen and Jeanette Wrysinski and learn how to become better nature detectives. Investigate a variety of methods to discover what critters live around you, even if you can’t see the animals themselves. Attendees will investigate animal tracks, trails, fur, feathers, pellets, scat (aka poop) and other signs of wildlife on the walk. Attendees will check several
track stations and discuss how to set up a track station in your own yard. Attendees will also retrieve a remote game camera and see if it captured any photos of animals passing by. Attendees will practice identifying animal tracks using eld guides and everybody will be able to make a plaster cast of an animal track to take home with them. Rosen has worked as a naturalist and environmental educator for over 40 years, the last half of that time as a naturalist and guide for Sacramento Splash. Wrysinski has worked with the Yolo County Resource Conservation District for over 30 years and has conducted many wildlife monitoring studies in various project areas. This hike will be on level terrain and no more than 1.5 miles total. Rain date Nov. 1. Ages 7 and older are welcome. Meeting location TBD: Gold Hill or Coloma area.
Forest bathing walk at Wakamatsu
Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Forest Bathing is an immersive experience in nature, a simple, guided walk designed to support health and wellness. On this 1-mile walk around the lake attendees will have an opportunity to slow down, quiet their mind and experience the natural surroundings through their senses and take in the in nite wonders of nature. Along the way attendees will be guided through a series of carefully cra ed invitations allowing them to explore and engage their senses of sight, sound, scent and touch and promote a deeper connection with nature. Susan Reed is a certi ed nature and forest therapy guide with the Association for Nature and Forest Therapy. Reed takes her passion for hiking and backpacking and combines this with a long career in corporate health management and well-being to bring people to a connection with the natural world. Adults only. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
Herbal medicine making
Oct. 25, noon to 2 p.m. — Many people don’t know what to do with the herbs they have collected or purchased. In this class herbalist Candis Cantin will teach attendees how to make herbal honey blends, pastes, tinctures, oils and salves. Cantin has over 40 years practical experience as an herbalist, herbal and nutritional counselor and teacher of holistic lifestyle principles. She has owned and directed the EverGreen Herb Garden and School of Integrative Herbology located in the Sierra foothills, where there are extensive organic botanical gardens to view. Responsible 12 year olds and older are welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
Capturing Wakamatsu: a poetry walk/workshop
Oct. 26, 10 a.m. to noon — Taylor Graham, El Dorado County’s rst Poet Laureate, and award-winning Sacramento-area poet Katy Brown will lead an exploration of the historic farmhouse, barn and surroundings at Wakamatsu farm, then ask participants to write a poem inspired by what they’ve experienced. Anyone who wishes to may share their poems with the group and ARC. Children 8 and over are welcome with adult supervision. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
Dirty art: wild clays and pigment
Nov. 2, 9 a.m. to noon — Come look for and learn about wild clays near the American River. Attendees will go out to forage wild clay, investigate some of the di erent soil types in the area, learn about clay processing, discuss indigenous clay uses in the area and discover soil pigments for watercolor painting. This event is led by Jacqueline Royer, an environmental scientist for the Lahontan Water Board and a natural arts enthusiast who is excited to share a bit of her knowledge. Be prepared for a short walk along the river and a bit of digging. Rain or shine. Ages 10 and older are welcome. Meeting location TBD: Coloma area.
Warm up with re cider
Nov. 8, 10 a.m. to noon — In this class, attendees will learn how to prepare re cider, rst popularized by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar in the 1970s.
California Museum to host free Statehood Day celebration
Danielle Wood California Museum
SACRAMENTO
— The California Museum will commemorate the 175th anniversary of California’s statehood with a free public celebration, noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6. The event invites visitors of all ages to explore the state’s rich and diverse history through exhibitions, performances and educational programming.
Highlights include:
• Rare public viewing of the original 1849 California Constitution in both English and Spanish, presented in partnership with the California State Archives
• Complimentary general admission to all current exhibitions at the California Museum, including a limitedtime display of historic documents and artifacts highlighting select signers of the 1849 Constitution, courtesy of the California State Archives and California State Library
• Scholarly presentation by Professor Damien Bacich on “California’s Spanish-Mexican Roots: Life Before and A er Statehood”
• Live performances by early-California-inspired musi-
events
The tonic contains apple cider vinegar, honey, onion, garlic,
and
cal groups Los Californios and Renegade Orchestra
• Traditional dance performances
• Screening of PBS SoCal’s short lm “Borderlands”
•Interactive family-friendly cra s and activities
Attendees will learn about the properties of the ingredients and then make their own batch of re cider to take home. Jessica Carew Kra is a California naturalist, wild food forager and author of “Why We Need to Be Wild: One Woman’s Quest for Ancient Human Answers to 21st Century Problems” (Sourcebooks, 2023). Responsible 10 year olds and older are welcome. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
Nature journaling exploration
Nov. 8, 1-4 p.m. — Attention nature journal enthusiasts. Fall is the perfect time of year to slow down and bring the changing of the seasons into focus. An opportunity to connect, explore, learn and share by observing
• Complimentary “bearthday” cupcakes, including a DIY mini bear ag topper (available while supplies last)
“This milestone anniversary o ers a meaningful opportunity to consider California’s complex past and celebrate
seasonal changes, wildlife activity and the sensory experiences of autumn at Wakamatsu Farm. Shannon Rodrian is a fellow nature lover and organizer of the El Dorado County Nature Journaling Club. The club is inspired by her introduction to nature journaling as part of the California Naturalist course taught at American River Conservancy. Her hope in creating the group is to continue to connect, explore, learn and share love of nature and the foothills through nature journaling. Curious 12 year olds and older are welcome. Rain postpones to Nov. 9. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
Intro to pottery, wheel throwing
Nov. 2-4 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m. — Dive into the world of pottery with these exciting classes. Perfect for beginners and those with little experience, attendees will master essential tech-
Easily folds into compact suitcase
Heaviest piece is only 38.5
Fits easily into any car trunk
Shock-absorbing puncture-proof tyres
Up to 25 miles range with the
the diverse communities that shaped its present,” said Amanda Meeker, executive director of the California Museum. “We are excited to welcome the public for a free day of learning, re ection and celebration.”
niques like coil and pinch methods, learn the art of score and slip work and discover the joy of creating pottery on a wheel. Unleash your imagination in a fun, relaxed and supportive environment. Local artist Luke Haley started working with clay as a teen and continued his exploration through college. He has worked in and out of open studios for years and in 2018 opened his rst home studio. Haley will kiln- re your creation to be picked up at a later date. Ages 12 and over are welcome. Meeting location: Placerville area.
Pine needle basket class Nov. 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Come learn the technique of coiling and how to start a basket out of pine needles in this one-day workshop led by basketmaker and ARC member, Nettie Fox. This class is appropriate for all levels, beginning through advanced. All
Free transportation to and from the event is available via SacRT xed-route bus and light rail services. Riders may present a printed or digital copy of the event yer to receive fare-free travel. Visit CaliforniaMuseum.org/ Statehood to learn more. Advance reservations are encouraged to guarantee admission to the California Statehood Day Celebration at the California Museum. Reserve your complimentary ticket at Statehood-Day.eventbrite.com
For additional information, including directions and parking details visit CaliforniaMuseum.org/parking.
About the museum
The California Museum — home of the California Hall of Fame — focuses on the state’s rich history, its diversity and its unique in uence on the world of ideas, innovation, art and culture. Located at 1020 O St., the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. General admission is $8-$10. Plan a visit at californiamuseum.org.
materials will be provided, and space is limited. Attendees will receive information on collecting, storing and dyeing pine needles. Learn all about materials, embellishments and a little history on the art of pine needle basket-making. Additional supplies will be available for purchase. Ages 12 and older are welcome, with adult supervision. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
Fall bird walk, Knickerbocker Creek Nov. 15, 7:30 a.m. to noon — Tim and Angela Jackson will lead this fall walk to see where songbirds, raptors and water birds can be found. Tim maintains a website (eldoradobirds.com) on birdwatching in El Dorado County. Angela is a local writer and photographer. This is a slow-paced, easy to moderate hike of 3-4 miles. Quiet, mature 8-year-olds and older are welcome. Meeting location: Cool area.
Courtesy photo
Los Californios and other acts will participate in this year’s Statehood Day celebration in Sacramento.
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