0327_MD_BOOK

– Weekend Edition –

WATER ON DEMAND

Remote hydrant prototype installed at D’Agostini Reservoir

Shelly Thorene Sta writer

Cal Fire personnel, Pioneer Fire Chief David Whitt and members of the Pioneer Fire District Fire Safe Council recently gathered at D’Agostini Reservoir on Mt. Aukum Road to view a demonstration of a newly developed and patented Remote Hydrant System developed by Latrobe entrepreneur Dan Milton.

Milton is the owner of Sierra Fire Services, which supplies support services such as laundry and lighting to fire base camps, including the base

PLACE ADDRESS LABEL HERE

Noel Stack Editor

Lcamp for the Caldor Fire at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in 2021. During the Caldor Fire, Milton said he had the opportunity to observe water tender operations and the logistics of moving water for a large fire. After speaking with water tender operators, he said, “It became clear that accessing water sources in rural terrain can be one of the biggest challenges.”

Milton and his brother Mike, a partner in the business, set a goal to develop a solution. “We found there were no pumps on the market that met operational requirements,” Dan explained. “We researched available equipment and tested di erent configurations to determine what would reliably meet the performance goals.”

They selected a pump platform that had many of the core characteristics needed and customized it for the system.

The portable remote hydrant system Dan originally developed supports suppression operations on large fires already well established that require significant water supply logistics. The system moves water from natural resources to locations water tenders can tap into and fills tanks quickly.

The new system installed near D’Agostini Reservoir on Mt. Aukum Road is a di erent application of the same concept.

“The goal here is to create a permanent water access point that is available 24/7 if firefighters ever need it,” Dan told the Mountain Democrat. “El Dorado County has abundant water resources but much of that water is di cult to access during an emergency. The Somerset site was installed primarily as a proof of concept to demonstrate what might be possible.”

How it works

A small covered structure with a solar panel mounted on top houses two gasoline-powered pumps near the pond. The pumps deliver filtered pond water to a hydrant located away from the structure up near the driveway for JR Logging and

aughs and a few tears were part of the Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors’ agenda on March 18 as board members, sta and the public thanked interim General Manager Maurice Johnson for his 13 months of leadership.

Johnson joined the CPCSD on Feb. 5, 2025, after the board exercised the 30-day terminationwithout-cause clause in then-General Manager Alan Gardner’s contract. Mark Hornstra is now the district’s general manager. Hornstra, the former El Dorado Hills Community Services District general manager, was recruited by Johnson last year to serve as the Cameron Park district’s parks and facilities supervisor.

“Of all the bosses I’ve had, Mo is at the top,” Hornstra said.

Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit Deputy Chief of Operations Dusty Martin presented Johnson with the Partnership Award, noting that because of Johnson’s leadership, “We are in an amazing place with collaboration and communication at all levels.” Martin gifted Johnson a “Dyna-Mo” nameplate

Teachers, EDUHSD reach an impasse

Shelly Thorene Sta writer

Teachers from high schools in the El Dorado Union High School District picketed Wednesday after negotiations for a cost of living increase and an o set for increased healthcare costs hit an impasse with the district.

According to Erin Doubek, lead negotiator for the Faculty Association, on April 15 a state mediator will work with the district and the association to try to reach a compromise.

“If the parties cannot reach an agreement, the next step is fact-finding and a representative from the state will do a deep dive into the district’s financial records and make another recommendation for a compromise,” said Doubek. “Only after impasse and fact finding will a strike be possible. Both sides hope to avoid this outcome because we know that students belong in the classroom.”

El Dorado High School science teacher Tobias Gantschi, who stood out front of the high school with a small group of teachers, told the Mountain Democrat, “Some of us have been here for many years. I’ve been here 20 years and have been told

City boosts parking violation fees

Andrew Vonderschmitt

editor

Features

The Placerville City Council approved a new schedule of parking citation fees at its March 10 meeting. The revised master fee schedule will take e ect May 11.

Interim Finance Director Natalie Tornincasa told the council the city’s parking citation fees have not been updated since 2010 and no longer reflect the true cost of enforcement adding that the update will modernize penalties and better align them with regional standards.

“The purpose is to approve the revenue generation used to partially o set the cost of the police department’s patrol division and the downtown parking program,” Tornincasa said, adding the current structure “is not keeping up with the overall cost for the city to issue citations.” Those expenses include personnel, supplies and state-mandated court fees.

City sta surveyed fines in neighboring communities to guide the update. Tornincasa said

ESSENTIALS

Burton (Burt) Morrill

Rowe

Jan. 2, 1932 – Jan. 19, 2026

Burton Morrill Rowe was born on January 2, 1932, in Berkeley, California. He passed away peacefully at home on January 19, 2026 with the love of his life, Lynne Remy at his side. He came from a long family lineage rooted in mining and ranching in Nevada. Among his favorite childhood memories were riding his cherished Indian motorcycle and spending summers at a family ranch in Yerington, Nevada.

“Burt” earned his bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley, where he also pursued graduate studies. His academic focus was forestry, with a specialization in agricultural economics—a field shaping his professional life.

Following graduation, Burt worked in forestry and the logging industry before dedicating his career to the United States Forest Service in timber management. His work reflected his deep respect for the land as a renewable resource.

While attending UC Berkeley, Burt met and later married Eugenia Brunsfeld. Together they had two children, Kathrina “Lynette” Rowe and Burton M. Rowe, “Morrie.”

For all who knew Burt, knew he had a genius IQ and a rebellious nature. Strong influences shaped his character: a father who played football and graduated from Yale, a mother who had him in ballroom dance classes at 6 years old, spending months in bed with rheumatic fever as a teenager, and a long history of cancer beginning at the age of 26. The cancer history led him to believe he would not grow to be “old”. This fueled his pursuit of seizing each moment and a nonconventional lifestyle, often venturing to the wild side. He was his own Spirit.

After retiring, Burt rekindled his lifelong passion for motorcycle riding. With his Harley-Davidson, he made three cross-country journeys, visiting 47 of the continental United States — a testament to his adventurous spirit and love of the open road.

Later in life, Burt met the love of his life and soulmate, Lynne Remy. They were blessed with 41 years together. Their life’s journey took them from California to Florida, and ultimately to Alabama, where they continued building a life filled with companionship and devotion.

Burt will be remembered for his uniquely independent spirit, his adventurous heart, and his deep commitment to those he loved.

Delmos L Je erson

Feb. 4, 1943 – Mar. 17, 2026

Delmos passed away at home due to natural causes, surrounded by family.

Husband to Caroline Je erson, married for 67 years, he leaves behind his wife Caroline, 3 adult children, 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Delmos was heavily involved in the Rubicon, Jeepers Jamboree and The El Dorado Jeep Herders. He also hosted Lower Ice House Lake Campground for 8+ years.

Delmos did not want a funeral, but will have a celebration of life as soon as his wife Caroline is strong enough to attend.

Hendrik William John (BJ)

Hunting

Dec. 2, 1934 – Feb. 17, 2026

Hendrik William John (BJ) Hunting died peacefully on February 17, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 71 years Donna Hunting, 4 children, 11 grandchildren and 5 greatgrandchildren.

BJ was born December 2,1934 to William and Vivian Hunting. He worked for 30+ years as a lineman and technician for Pacific Telephone before retiring in 1987. He then worked in telecommunications in the Silicon Valley before permanently retiring in 2001. To earn extra money he learned to be a mechanic from his father, and repaired friends and co-workers cars after hours in the family garage.

Other than his family, one of his proudest accomplishments was achieving his private pilot license. He routinely took friends and family on short trips to share his love for aviation. BJ also loved classic cars from the years when he was a young man.

BJ was always quick with a joke, even to strangers, nurses and waiters/waitresses that he just met. He also had a love for an occasional Manhattan.

BJ volunteered in the community as a baseball coach and umpire while his children were young, and for the El Dorado sheri s STAR - Sheri ’s Team of Active Retiree and the Placerville police department SHIELD program in retirement. His smile and continual optimism will be missed by all.

The family will have a celebration of life on Saturday March 28, 2026 at the Folsom Community Center from 11-2.

Sharon Whitcomb

Oct. 16, 1941 – Mar. 21, 2026

Sharon was born in Sacramento, California, and passed away peacefully in Davis, California. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of nearly 60 years, Dennis B. Whitcomb. She is survived by her children Dennis J. “DJ” Whitcomb, Jonathan Whitcomb, and Julie Whitcomb; daughter-in-law Trish Whitcomb; grandsons Jonathan, Thomas, and Tyler; greatgrandson Lucas; brother Je rey Duket; sister-inlaw Nina Duket; and many beloved cousins.

Sharon was a graduate of Norte Del Rio High School and remained active with a close-knit group of classmates who gathered regularly for reunions and cherished their lifelong friendships. A natural entrepreneur, Sharon started her first business at the age of sixteen, “The Pink Poodle.” Later in life she became an interior designer and custom home builder. Among the homes she helped create was the beautiful Cameron Park estate where she and Dennis raised their family and welcomed many friends and loved ones over the years.

Sharon and Dennis shared a love of travel and adventure, especially their many trips to Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Mendocino coast.

Sharon touched the lives of many family members, friends, co-workers, and caregivers, and will be remembered for her humor and sharp wit. She was an avid card player who loved gathering with family and friends, whether with the multigenerational family “Tripoli group,” her Bunko group, or a friendly game of rummy, cribbage, pinochle, poker, or blackjack. Memories of the love and generosity of their “Grandma Jama” will be especially cherished by her grandsons. In her final years, Sharon was supported by a circle of compassionate caregivers who became like a second family to her. We are deeply grateful for the kindness, laughter, and companionship they shared with her, bringing her great comfort.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at El Macero Country Club in Davis, California. Sharon will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Dennis, in Mendocino, California—one of their favorite places—in a private family ceremony. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or to a charity of your choice.

Simeon Robert Philipp

Feb. 21, 1968 – March 10, 2026

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved brother Simeon Robert Philipp, who departed this world on March 10, 2026, at his home. Born on February 21, 1968, in Vallejo, California. Simeon was a beacon of kindness, humor, and warmth to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Simeon was the cherished son of Chris and Roberta Philipp, both of whom predeceased him. He is remembered by his son, Zachary Philipp, and daughter-in-law, Meghan. Simeon’s legacy of love and laughter continues through his siblings—sister Chandra Masciovecchio and her husband Ron, brother Mark Philipp, sister Tara Bolyard and her husband Brad, and sister Charise Philipp-Martinez and her husband Geno. Simeon also leaves behind his dear niece, Jessica Apsley, her husband Andrew and 4 children, and his nephew, Geno Philipp Martinez, who will all miss his infectious humor and encouraging presence.

Simeon was a proud alumnus of San Jose State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in history, followed by a master’s degree in library science from Sacramento State University. His thirst for knowledge and passion for history were matched only by his commitment to sharing that knowledge with others. Simeon spent his career fostering a love of learning in those he encountered, whether through his work or his personal interactions.

Known for his quick wit and ever-present smile, Simeon had an extraordinary ability to bring joy and laughter into any room. His humor was infectious, and his kindness was boundless. He was a stalwart fan of the San Francisco Forty Niners, the San Francisco Giants, and the Oakland Athletics, and he often shared his enthusiasm for sports with his family and friends, creating lasting memories with those he loved.

Simeon’s life was a testament to the power of kindness and the importance of family. He had a natural ability to put others at ease, and his genuine interest in people made him a beloved friend to many. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and will continue to inspire acts of kindness and compassion.

A private celebration of Simeon’s life will be held to honor the incredible person he was and the profound impact he had on those around him. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a local library or educational charity in Simeon’s memory, reflecting his lifelong dedication to learning and community.

Simeon will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His spirit will live on in the laughter he inspired, the lives he touched, and the stories that will be told for generations. Rest in peace, dear Simeon. You will forever be in our hearts.

Jerry Bluemel

Sep. 17, 1941 – Mar. 9, 2026

Jerry passed away peacefully following a cardiac arrest. He is survived by his wife, Lucy, of 60 years, his son, Scott, his daughter, Deanna, grandchildren, Tyler, Casey and Logan, and numerous other loved ones.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army in Frankfurt, Germany from 1961 to 1964. He joined the California Patrol in 1966 and retired as a Sergeant after 33 years. After retirement he worked as Chairman of Oral Boards for the Department of Corrections for 25.

Thereafter he poured wine for several wineries in the Camino area. He loved hiking, travel, golf and football - primarily the Green Bay Packers. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus as a fourth degree and American Legion Placerville Post 119. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to CHP Widows & Orphans fund.

There will be a Funeral Mass on April 1 at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick Church, Placerville, with a reception immediately following.

LAKE LEVELS

EDSO CRIME LOG

The following was taken from EDSO reports: Feb. 15

7:01 p.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. An arrest was made.

Feb. 16

1:27 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Hidden Acres Drive in El Dorado Hills.

2:56 p.m. Battery was reported at an apartment complex on Cimmarron Road in Cameron Park.

6:06 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Donovan Ranch Road in Placerville.

7:33 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Templeton Drive in El Dorado Hills.

Feb. 17

7:51 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Candy Lane in Somerset.

2:07 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a mobile home park on Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.

6:47 p.m. Battery was reported at an apartment complex on La Crescenta Drive in Cameron Park.

7:10 p.m. Battery was reported on Magpie Court in Placerville.

Feb. 18

8:53 a.m. Battery was reported on Cobble Rock Way in El Dorado Hills.

12:34 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Palmer Drive in Cameron Park.

1:44 p.m. Burglary was reported on Northside Drive in Cool.

4:47 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a restaurant on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

6:44 p.m. Battery was reported on Peycos Drive in Placerville. An arrest was made.

Feb. 19

11:51 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of evading a peace o cer and violating a post-release supervision on Fowler Lane in Diamond Springs. They were listed in custody.

5:58 p.m. Battery was reported at the jail on Forni Road in Placerville.

7:58 p.m. Battery was reported on Idlewild Road in Somerset.

8:33 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of possessing ■ See CRIME LOG, page A6

CONTACT US T. Burt McNaughton

/ andrewv@mtdemocrat.net

/ sthorene@mtdemocrat.net

chrisw@mtdemocrat.com

GRAPHICS

Letty Bejarano-Carvajal Graphics Manager (530) 344-5049 / lettyb@mtdemocrat.net

MOUNTAIN

Drivers urged to check, fix free vehicle recalls

News release

State and national organizations join the auto industry to urge drivers to check for and repair open vehicle safety recalls.

“Checking for open safety recalls and bringing in your vehicle for repairs is a critical safety measure that every driver should take,” California O ce of Tra c Safety Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “With our partners, the OTS is focused on making sure every California driver knows there is an easy, quick way to find out if their vehicle has an open safety recall — ChecktoProtect.org. It takes less than a minute to search for any open recalls, and repairs are free at any authorized dealership. This is a potentially life-saving action for not only drivers, but their passengers and everyone on the road.”

Why it matters

There are more than 5.4 million vehicles in California with unrepaired safety recalls, including 115,000 vehicles with a “Do Not Drive” warning due to the seriousness of the repair needed. Older vehicles and those with multiple owners are at greatest risk, as many drivers are unaware of open recalls. Nationwide, 53.2 million vehicles, or one in every five vehicles on the road, has an unrepaired recall.

Takata airbag recalls

In California, more than 500,000 vehicles still have defective Takata airbags that date back to 2014. Among the California vehicles with defective airbags, four out of every five vehicles are in Los Angeles (252,000), the Sacramento-StocktonModesto (81,900), the San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose (77,700) and San Diego areas (42,300).

The defective airbag inflators on Takata airbags could explode and spray sharp metal fragments toward the driver and passengers — like shrapnel from an exploding grenade. Owners of certain vehicles are at a substantially higher risk of having faulty Takata air bags and must replace the air bags immediately. These vehicles include certain model year Honda and Acura vehicles, Chrysler 300s; Dodge Chargers, Magnums and Challengers; certain BMW 3 Series, 5 Series and X5s; and certain 2006 Ford Rangers and Mazda B-Series vehicles.

Since the Takata Airbag Recall started in June 2014, 28 people have been killed in the United States, including four people in California, due to defective air bag inflators that exploded. At least 400 people have been injured.

Between April 2024 and April 2025, California ranked No. 1 in making the most progress with 107,500 Takata Airbag replacements or recall

closures, fixing nearly 15 percent of all vehicles with open recalls in a single year.

“60 seconds. That is the amount of time it takes to determine if your vehicle has an open safety recall and where you could go to get it repaired,” New Motor Vehicle Board Assistant Director and Equity O cer Kimberlee Vaye said.

“Take the time to check. You owe it to yourself and your family. Safety recalls can involve parts like brakes, tires, seatbelts, airbags and steering, putting drivers and passengers, and even pedestrians, at unreasonable risk of injuries or crashes,” she continued. “Check to Protect for peace of mind of keeping you and your loved ones safe. Get your recall fixed as soon as possible. Contact your local car dealership today. Dealerships are obligated to repair any recall free of charge, whether you purchased your vehicle there or not. Many dealers o er free transportation, loaner cars or even mobile repair.”

What is a safety recall?

A safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or the National Highway Tra c Safety Administration determines that a vehicle or its components pose a safety risk or fail to meet minimum standards.

To check for open recalls, drivers can visit CheckToProtect.org or CheckToProtect.org/es

Mosquito Road closure coming up

News release

El Dorado County’s Department of Transportation will perform a monthly inspection and maintenance of the crane boom extension and crane located at Pier 3 of the bridge replacement north of the river on Mosquito Road. These safety efforts will require road closures each month.

The next closure for the inspection and maintenance work will be on Saturday, March 28. The crane maintenance will require full closure of Mosquito Road at the gates, from 0.6

News release

El Dorado County’s Department of Transportation, in conjunction with El Dorado Senior Village Apartments I, LP and Doug Veerkamp General Engineering, will be implementing lane closures and reversing tra c control along Koki Lane between Pleasant Valley Road and Crossbill Lane to complete work on the water and sewer lines under the roadway. Work is anticipated to start on Monday, March 30, and continue subsequent weekdays and Saturdays through April. Due to

miles north to 0.8 miles south of the old Mosquito Road Bridge. The closure will begin at 7 a.m. and the road will reopen by noon that same day. A detour has been established via Rock Creek Road for which motorists should expect delays and allow extra time for travel.

The closure is necessary to lay the crane boom down on Mosquito Road at the north project (Pier 3) location to perform crane inspection and maintenance. Mosquito Road will be impassable until the work is complete, and the boom is raised back into position.

the school’s spring break holiday, working hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. will be observed the week of March 30. Subsequent work will take place 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. on Mondays, and 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays to minimize impacts to school drop o and pick up times. Tra c control may not a ect the entire portion of the work area depending on which portion of the roadway is under construction. Motorists should be aware of large trucks entering or exiting the roadway and should follow the direction of any

Mosquito Road will be closed at the gates to ensure motorist and worker safety while the county’s contractor performs the crane work. The Mosquito Road closures will occur monthly for the duration of the project. Notices will be posted two weeks in advance of each closure.

In case of an emergency, coordinate with emergency services for passage through the work site. For questions regarding this closure contact the DOT main line at (530) 621- 5900 (select Option 3 for Engineering).

flaggers or tra c controls when present. Message boards will be present on both Pleasant Valley Road and Koki Lane, and any changes to the scheduled work will be reflected on-site.

Motorists are advised to slow down through the work zone and expect delays during construction. Motorists are also advised to allow extra time when traveling through the work zone to arrive at their destinations on time or use alternate routes to avoid the construction area.

For more information call the DOT main line at (530) 621-5900 (select Option 3 for Engineering).

Call 530 919 7515 for information and programs. Do you have an announcement that you would like to include here? Contact Elizabeth Hansen (530) 344-5028 or ehansen@mtdemocrat.net

OPINION

California Commentary

Is the bullet train hungry for property tax revenue?

Awonderful children’s poem by Shel Silverstein is about Hungry Mungry, a sad soul with an unquenchable appetite.

It starts like this:

“Hungry Mungry sat at supper, Took his knife and spoon and fork, Ate a bowl of mushroom soup, ate a slice of roasted pork, Ate a dozen stewed tomatoes, twenty-seven deviled eggs, Fifteen shrimps, nine baked potatoes, Thirty-two fried chicken legs.” By the end of the story, Hungry Mungry had consumed the kitchen table, his house, the city of Chicago and, you guessed it, the entire universe. Hungry Mungry was never satisfied and was always looking for the next thing to eat.

The tale of Hungry Mungry makes us think of California’s High-Speed Rail Authority. It is constantly looking for new kinds of revenue to feed the controversial high-speed rail project.

Last year, this column reported on Senate Bill 545, which mandates “a study on economic opportunities along the corridor of the California high-speed rail project, as defined.” Further, the bill “would require an infrastructure district, as defined, that uses its revenue to finance the construction of the high-speed rail project to dedicate a majority of its revenue to infrastructure projects within the jurisdiction of the local agencies that establish the district.”

Not surprisingly, the idea that local tax revenue would be diverted to a state transportation project — especially one as uncertain as high-speed rail — does not sit well with local government o cials.

Forgive the legalese, but the above sentence “assumes a fact not in evidence,” given that there are no local infrastructure districts that currently spend funds on high-speed rail. Nonetheless, the language certainly appears to lay the groundwork for that use. Moreover, when anyone in government starts looking at “a variety of funding mechanisms,” there’s only one meaning: tax increases.

Senate Bill 545 passed in the Senate, its house of origin, but as a “two-year” bill, it has yet to move in the Assembly. Not waiting to see if SB 545 becomes law, the High-Speed Rail Authority, in the latest iteration of a “draft business plan,” expressly identifies this controversial proposal to capture local tax revenue.

As reported by the Fresno Bee last month, “The state agency in charge of the California project is seeking control over land-use and tax revenues within a half-mile of its future stations — a radius that in Fresno would include the entire core of

■ See COUPAL, page A5

The Not So Weekly Daley

Letters to the Editor

The Landing is coming

EDITOR:

I’m humbled by the generosity of our community. Over 700 people packed the fairgrounds at Boys & Girls Club Heroes Night on March 14 to support the 650 kids we serve daily at our five locations and to support The Landing. It was far and away our most successful event, and on behalf of our Board of Directors and the young people who use our club, thank you!

We will break ground on The Landing in the next few months. This 40-acre sports complex and teen center, when complete, will be a game changer for our club, this county and the thousands of kids who will use it annually. Four baseball and softball diamonds, two soccer fields, a double gym, commercial kitchen, a teen center, walking trails, pickleball and more will be part of this ambitious project.

Why are we doing The Landing? We want our kids to have a place to play right here in our county and our teens to have a place they call their own. We want our local businesses to benefit from the economic boost of a regional sports complex in our community.

How are we going to raise $30 million? Slowly,

most likely, but we will complete the project because failing and falling short is not the lesson we wish to show the 650 children who walk in our doors. We want young minds we work with to not limit themselves, but rather dream big about what their life can be!

The Landing is a culmination of a movement that started in this county 30 years ago when a group of people did the hard thing and started the Boys & Girls Club. Then 13 years ago, another group of people chose another hard path and built a new building. Today, we ask you to be bold yet again. If you were with us in the past, we need you more than ever. If you are new to our club, welcome. We are glad you came, and it is time to get to work. It will take all of us doing our part across the county to help us get over the finish line.

We will begin this project in short order. And we will keep at it until the fields are built, the gym is complete and there are teens in the teen center charting their course for big moments they have yet to identify.

Join our club and our fiscal agent, the El Dorado Community Foundation (eldoradocf.org), in being a part of something big. Something that

Sharing a few things I’ve been wondering about

Ihaven’t had a dog since 1980. Back then we lived on a couple acres, and Suki was my Russian version of “Little Female Dog.” I knew a lot more Russian in those days. We named her that when she was that, but as a German Sherman-St. Bernard cross, she outgrew her name pretty quickly. Quickly is “bistro” in Russian, really. We rarely needed to walk her o the property unless we were traveling. And even then I don’t recall ever seeing anyone carrying a blue or green plastic doggie poop bag. Maybe they hadn’t been invented yet and certainly were not required anywhere we’d ever been — not here, Europe, Canada or Mexico to my knowledge.

Many of my neighbors have dogs and walk them regularly around the neighborhood, doggie poop bags in hand. I’ve often wondered but never asked, “Hey, where do you put those things?” Just wondering. Watching CNN Sunday morning there was a big story about the astounding lines at the AtlantaHartsfield Airport. The reporter walked for several minutes along travelers in staggeringly huge groups, separated into three sections waiting to go through security checks. I’d be staggering from standing in line for 30 minutes let alone three or more hours.

I didn’t hear an estimate of the number of people in those lines, but

Hundreds of GOP lawmakers, who have crowed about their opposition to “forever wars,” now seem to champion a new perspective.

at the end of his report he said there were now five sections.

And I wondered, not for the first time, how “they” count so many people like at enormous rallies or parades or No Kings protests — hundreds of thousands, even millions sometimes. Obviously, nobody is physically counting that number, so who and how many folks are running the counting devices? I know there’s heaps of science and technology involved. Just wondering. Guess I could Google that sometime. Our local police, sheri ’s deputies, California Highway Patrol, Fish & Game wardens and the like all wear standard uniforms, name tags and badges and maybe body cams.

Some Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents I’ve seen in photos don’t wear any of that gear. But they do wear masks. I know the purported justification but wonder about the real reason. I’m sure our community law enforcement’s first duty is protecting us and not universal and public intimidation. Big di erence.

I don’t generally favor gross generalizations, but I’m going to pro er one now. Hundreds of GOP lawmakers, who have crowed about their opposition to “forever wars,” now seem to champion a new perspective. I can almost hear them saying ...

Spring in the Sierra

March 20, the Vernal Equinox. Winter turned over seasonal duties to spring. Day and night were roughly equal on the 20th. Days will now slowly get longer, the nights shorter. March did finally grant us much-needed snow, then turned o the snow guns and brought us high temperatures.

Snow has melted rapidly throughout our slice of the Sierra. Hopefully April will grant us more snow before the snow season ends.

Spring in the mountains brings with it some challenges that the backcountry crowd has to be aware of. Keep in mind that you are on your own out there. We are definitely in a much too early transition period. Right now, looking for skiable cross country or snowshoe treks means finding your way to around 8,000 feet, on north facing slopes. There may be some snow around 7,500 feet but it will be patchy. You’ll be hopping from one patch to another. Most of us won’t do this. Experts will.

Snow is dynamic. The snowpack,

Coupal Continued from A4 downtown and Chinatown. The details of the idea have not been fleshed out, but the California HighSpeed Rail Authority says it wants to capture the increase in property and sales tax revenues generated in an area by the arrival of a station. That would mean city and county budgets do not capture those extra property and sales tax dollars, which typically pay for police, fire and other essential public services. The rail authority says it needs these powers to ensure the necessary infrastructure — including streets, utilities and grade separations — are in place when its stations open. Otherwise, its investment could be put at risk, the agency says.”

Not surprisingly, the idea that local tax revenue would be diverted to a state transportation project — especially one as uncertain as high-speed rail — does not sit well with local government o cials. The same Fresno Bee article quotes Jerry Dyer, the mayor of Fresno, as saying, “As much as I have been supportive of high-speed rail in the past, any attempt to take revenue from the city of Fresno and transfer it to HSR will be strongly opposed.”

Daley Continued from A4

“Whatever President Trump wants is fine with us.”

“Four-plus weeks of war with Iran? Better than having him mad and wanting to primary me in the next couple months.”

accumulated over each snowstorm, is piled up in di erent layers, from thin to pretty thick. It takes some time for the snowpack to consolidate, meaning it starts to stick together.

The layers are still there. Within those multiple layers of snow are weak, unconsolidated layers, thin layers and thick layers that are glued together quite well. All of that has to do with avalanches, pinwheels, rollerballs, slu s, slabs and steepness, among other things.

North facing slopes hold snow longer than south facing slopes, which get more sun. Tree covered areas keep snow longer than meadows and open areas. Those are all things you can see. Lots to keep track of. What you don’t see is equally as important. The snowpack is melting too quickly as of now. You may see runnels on top of the snow if it’s been rained on. Underneath all that snow is snowmelt. Yep, melting snow works its way to the bottom, gravity at work. Water runs under the snow, slowly ■ See OUTSIDE, page A7

Ironically, on the issue of whether HSRA should be allowed to dictate local land use and revenue sharing, local governments might find themselves allied with taxpayer advocates such as the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, which has opposed the project from the very beginning. In addition to being politically fraught, the plan would undoubtedly be the target of litigation under a variety of legal theories. The entire decade-and-a-half history of California’s high-speed rail project is one of broken promises and bad governance. This is especially true when it comes to the funding sources — both real and imaginary — that are supposed to finance a modern, e cient rail system. But both federal and private sector money are now nowhere to be seen, and cap-and-trade revenue is inherently speculative.

When even local government interests have concluded that the “return on investment” simply isn’t going to be there, maybe it’s time to pull the plug.

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

“Many thousands of innocents blown to bits if not smithereens on my conscience and my legacy? OK, I can live with that!”

Letters Continued from A4

SEAN McCARTNEY CEO, Boys & Girls Club

County Western Slope Bullies

EDITOR:

ome kids have been throwing big rocks and plants from a stream here, lowering the water level the tadpoles must have to develop the lungs and legs needed to

Generalizing somewhat grossly, what a pack of spineless, gutless, freeloading chicken … hearts — or something else that often goes with chicken. I really do wonder about these people. Don’t you?

Chris Daley is a biweekly columnist for the Mountain Democrat.

live out of the water as frogs. Frogs hurt nothing. They’re the same gentle creatures they always were — all 5,000 species of them.

But some boys are growing up to be men who brag about their superior strength, which consists of weapons and the money to purchase them.

The tadpole situation reminds me what it looks like to see others picking on the weak. I had to deal with a number of such boys in the street as a girl, and they were a poor judge of weakness.

Didn’t anybody try to warn yuh?

ELIZABETH CAFFREY Placerville

Ponderosa Bruins softball squad grounds the Eagles

Mike Bush Mountain Democrat correspondent

One inning at a time.

That is what Ponderosa High School softball head coach Dwayne Brekke believes in taking this approach this season. That seems to be working very well for his Bruins, especially this week.

In a Capital Valley Conference home game against Vista del Lago High’s team in Shingle Springs on Wednesday, Ponderosa continued to post big numbers on the scoreboard with a 10-0 win. The game, which lasted just over an hour, was called after five innings because of the mercy rule.

The March 25 win improves Ponderosa to 5-0 in the Capital Valley Conference and 15-0 overall. The Bruins are tied for first place with Inderkum (5-0 in the CVC, 11-2).

According to the MaxPreps website, Ponderosa is currently ranked No. 13 among California high school softball teams and has a No. 24 national ranking.

“We do not look ahead of anybody,” said Brekke of the Bruins’ approach toward each game. “We don’t take anybody lightly. Everybody is going to be bringing their best against us.”

Kate McCartney, who is the Bruins’ leadoff hitter,

started the game with a solo home run. That was one of two runs in the first inning.

“She is just an outstanding player, offensively and defensively,” said Brekke of McCartney. “A great, quiet team leader … just leads by example.”

After a scoreless second inning, Ponderosa continued to manufacture runs in the final three innings for the win. The Bruins added three more runs in the third for a 5-0 score. Then they added another run in the fourth and ended the game when Trinidey Fuss, a freshman, smacked a home run in the fifth.

“We produced as a team and they are having a lot of fun,” Brekke said.

The Bruins finished with eight hits in the game. That included two home runs from McCartney, and the solo shot by Fuss.

Neri Britton went two-for-three and an RBI for the Bruins. Bella Adams, along with Ponderosa teammates Ari Jenks and Haley Warney, each had a hit in the game.

“Our team chemistry is just outstanding,” said Brekke, who only has two seniors on the team — Warney and Ellie Escobar. “I think the younger kids have bought into the culture. We have a lot of travel ball players (but) they want to play for Bruin pride

and it’s outstanding.”

In the circle, Lauren Klomp, another freshman, went the distance for the Bruins. She gave up one hit, struck out nine Eagle batters and walked one.

On March 23, the Bruins also had another quick CVC home game when they defeated Rio Americano High by a 15-0 score also decided in five innings. Ponderosa had 18 hits in the contest. McCartney, along with Adams and Britton, each had three hits. McCartney had two home runs, giving her four this week.

This year’s roster has six juniors, plus three sophomores and three freshmen.

Brekke is in his 17th season as head coach. He has produced many winning teams through the 2010s into this decade, including the 2023 Ponderosa squad that won the Foothill Valley League and CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Division II titles, and earned a berth in the California Interscholastic Federation Regional playoffs. The Bruins finished with a 25-5-1 record.

Upcoming games

Ponderosa takes a break from conference action next week.

On Monday, April 6, Ponderosa is back in action against Inderkum on the Tigers’ diamond in Sacramento. The game is scheduled to start at 4 p.m.

Placerville Speedway to host Sluice Box Bonanza

Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

A four division program rumbles into Placerville Speedway this Saturday, March 28, when the quarter mile plays host to the Sluice Box Bonanza.

The Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Cars make their second appearance of the year after launching 2026 last week.

Oakley’s Dylan Bloomfield snagged the win over championship contender Justyn Cox of Clarksburg. Austin Wood, Max Mittry and Colby Copeland completed the top five on opening night.

This Saturday is final Winged 360 Sprint Car tune up prior to the SCCT opener on April 4.

The Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks are back at it for their second point race on Saturday. Placerville’s own Tyler Lightfoot grabbed his second career Pure Stock win last week while holding off the relentless challenges of Nick Baldwin from Oakley.

Making their season debut on Saturday will be the Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks. The grass roots racing division offers an economic way to get on track and have some fun. Nevada driver Howard Miller scooped up one win on way to the championship last year.

The traveling Joe Hunt Magnetos Wingless Sprint Cars round out the card at the Sluice Box Bonanza. Marysville’s Josh Young and Elk Grove’s Jake Morgan captured the Hunt Tour visits last season. The wingless warriors also return for another event on June 13.

Placerville Speedway is proud to be nestled in the heart of gold country, and pays homage to that with the Sluice Box Bonanza this weekend.

A sluice box is a highly efficient, portable gold-mining tool used to separate heavy gold from gravel

weakening the top layers. At this time of year if you are out on the snow with snowshoes or simply hiking over what looks like a pretty solid snow field, you might be on a very weak snowbridge. What you can’t know is what that snowbridge is covering. It’s best to use your poles to poke at the snow before continuing if you are crossing any kind of depression in the snow. Breaking through a snowbridge into the running water below may be just a slight, cold, wet, boot splash and quick jump out. You could also end up in deeper water, which isn’t much fun. Experience is how I know this. With the lack of recent snow, anything lower than 7,500 feet, as of this writing, will probably be a hike. That’s what we transition to in these conditions. Grab a good guide to backcountry travel and find a familiar or new place to explore. Meadows in the high country, whether they are adjacent to a road or further in, will be boggy. If your boot, hopefully waterproof, starts to sink into the ground, stop. If you can find an area that is solid, probably a bit uphill or on a di erent path close by, use that. Boot tracks that we leave in soggy, boggy meadows lead to erosion. As the snow melt continues, water starts moving more, it takes soil

COMICS

using water flow, catching gold behind riffles and inside matting. Often made of aluminum with rubber or carpet liners, these devices are essential for processing 10 to 20 times more material than panning.

Grandstand seating during the Sluice Box Bonanza will be general admission except for the reserved seats allocated to season ticketholders that are marked.

Adult tickets cost $20, while seniors 62-plus, military and juniors 12-17 will be $18. Kids 6-11 cost $8 and those 5 and younger get in free. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online via eventsprout.com/event/ psr-032826.

The pit gate will open at noon, with the front gate opening at 4 p.m. Hirst Home Team Happy Hour is offered until 6 p.m. in the grandstands featuring live music with discounted Coors Light and Coors Original at the beer booth. Cars hit the track at 5:15 p.m. with hot laps, ADCO Driveline Qualifying and racing to follow.

The Placerville Speedway is located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. For more information log onto placervillespeedway.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday, April 4: Thrill on the Hill — SCCT opening night featuring Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour and Nor-Cal Dwarf Cars

Saturday, April 11: Coors Light

Big Trophy Night featuring Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Pure Stocks, Ltd. Late Models and Mini Trucks

with it, which is something to avoid contributing to.

There are definitely some really good places to hike, maybe with your snowshoes attached to your pack, just in case. Grass Lake at Luther Pass is a good example.

Luther Pass, 7,700 feet at the pass on SR 89, takes you from Meyers to Hope Valley. As you head up 89 from Meyers you’ll get to a place on the road that starts to be more flat. On the Grass Lake side, there’s a pullout. A trail leads away from the road. Not too far in you’ll come to a fork. As Yogi would say, take it. The trail to your left will take you through the forest a bit above Grass Lake.

This trail will treat you to wonderful forest views of Grass Lake, rapidly losing its snow and earning its name. Magnificent rock formations will cause you to stop and simply enjoy these mammoth boulders and outcrops.

The trail ends at Luther Pass. Relax, enjoy the hike back.

Again, always check the conditions before heading out (sierraavalanchecenter.org). Remember your chocolate covered peanut M&Ms, food and all the normal stu you haul with you out there. Explore, look at the guide books, gear up, leave no trace. Get outside!

Stay up to date with a subscription to the Mountain Democrat website: mtdemocrat.com. Call (530) 622-1255 to subscribe.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ve often learned from your mistakes, but don’t forget about learning from the many things you’ve done exactly right. Your instincts, your judgment calls, your strong moves have served you well, and the future is bright as you continue in kind.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Trust your read. You feel things that seem right before you’re able to prove it. You can act on your feelings and preemptively avoid trouble. It’s not about condemning anyone, just about putting yourself in the best environments for you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Mother said, “Don’t worry about what they’re thinking of you because most times they’re not thinking of you.” The fact that their minds are probably elsewhere will come as a liberation today and an invitation to do as you please.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You will get where you’re going. Have faith. You’re in the hall now, which o ers doors to destinations, but doesn’t feel like a destination itself. Keep moving. There isn’t an endless corridor on this entire planet. You will eventually arrive.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You are highly perceptive, and almost intuitive about other people’s inner worlds. The ease is in sensing. The di culty is in con rming. In other words -- insight comes quickly; certainty does not. The tension lives between intuition and proof.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Getting control of your emotions isn’t necessary for good living, but healthy self-expression is. Emotions only animate you when they are trapped in the body.

Go where it’s safe to open up and let them ow. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You’ll notice the facts. This you do without spiraling, seeking reassurance or needing approval. The facts may include naming rudeness or noting someone’s sense of entitlement without taking it personally, then deciding not to engage. You move on with grace.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Not every irritation needs processing. Some just need labeling and deprioritizing. Today you’ll be an example of intelligent allocation of energy. You are alive and responsive and trying. The competence is a bonus. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You take care of your people. You’re thoughtful, balanced, the one who makes sure everyone’s OK. But today it kind of feels like your wild side is being underutilized. That’s why you’ll be inspired to come up with an unexpected twist. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You feel everything, but it’s not all yours to absorb. Choose what to delve deeper into and what to move quickly though. Compassion doesn’t require overextension. Your superpower: sensitivity paired with boundaries.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb.

Continued from A1

Mt. Aukum Road.

the front lines when fire fighters need it.”

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A keypad mounted on the hydrant allows a water tender operator or firefighter to punch in the code to turn the pump on. The psi from the gasoline pump is higher than the pumps that outfit both fire agency and private water tenders and a standard sized tank can fill in as little as four minutes, according to Dan. In the demonstration at D’Agostini Reservoir, a 2,500 gallon tank was filled in seven minutes. The longer fill time was attributed to a kink in the line.

The two Remote Hydrant System pumps at the Mt. Aukum Road site are capable of moving water at 400 gallons a minute. In some cases useable flow at the hydrant depends on the truck’s plumbing. “The system itself can be configured to move significantly more water when needed and in certain configurations is capable of flows exceeding 1,000 gallons a minute depending on pump configuration, plumbing and site conditions,” Dan explained.

Residual tank water in water tenders can spill out during tank fill and contaminate the nearby water source. According to Dan, the “environmental impact is huge.” The remote hydrant allows the truck to be filled away from the water source.

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group publishes the “Guide to Preventing Aquatic Invasive Species Transport by Wildland Fire Operation” with detailed guidelines and procedures for reducing the spread of several invasive species during wildland firefighting operations.

Pioneer Fire Chief David Whitt is onboard with the new device. “It’s pretty well thought out,” Whitt shared. “We are lucky to have another option that is easy to access and the quick turn around time will get the water to

Impasse

Continued from A1

multiple times (by the district) ‘We’re hit really hard and we’re trying to budget for the future.’ When, in fact, they have more in reserves than they say they have. It’s not transparent. We’re demanding that if they’re going to make offers to us, they have to be in good faith.”

Doubek stated the district’s total reserve is 29%, or $28,863,560, and of that amount $20 million is available for salary increases. The Faculty Association proposed a 6% raise hike equalling $2.2 million.

“Teachers hired after July 1, 2022, do not receive an increase in the district’s contribution toward healthcare costs. As a result, new teachers have experienced increases of up to 22% in their out-of-pocket premium costs,” Doubek shared.

“The association remains firm in its position that the district must increase its contributions for employees hired after 2022 on an ongoing basis, ensuring parity with teachers hired prior to 2022.”

The district is offering a 2.5% increase and a one-time boost of 2.71%. The Mountain Democrat reached out to the EDUHSD for comment but had not heard back as of press time.

Health and physical education teacher Shelley Bishop said teachers are supposed to have access to $14 million in reserves but are only offered 2% of that. “Teachers salaries at EDUHSD, which have fallen short due to inflation of over 5.5%, are well below the state average,” she maintained. “Meanwhile, administrator and superintendent salaries are above the state average. The district has 29% reserves, well above the low risk at 15%-20%.”

Bishop has been a teacher at EDHS for 11 years and is close to retirement.

Johnson Continued from A1

and a custom clock.

When Johnson came on board, Cal Fire and the CPCSD had a strained relationship. At the time, the district was exploring the possibility of annexing into the El Dorado Hills Fire Department instead of renewing its long-standing contract with Cal Fire for services in Cameron Park. Less than a month into his new role, Johnson, the former EDH fire chief, brought Cal Fire back to the table and the board opted out of annexation talks. A five-year fire services agreement between Cal Fire and the CPCPSD was signed a couple months later.

It was a “change for the best” when Johnson Joined the district, Cal Fire Battalion Chief Kalan Richards said. Cameron Park resident Barbara Rogers echoed that sentiment, calling Johnson “phenomenal” and telling the board, “I wish we could keep him.” Board members also shared their thoughts. Director Tim Israel acknowledged he and Johnson

Sierra Fire Services has identified 40 sites in the Pioneer Fire District area that could benefit from the device, adding that installing the remote hydrants can help lower a fire district’s Insurance Services Office - Public Protection Classification rating (ISOPPC) thereby lowering the high cost of fire insurance for homeowners in the area.

“As far as I’m aware, no one has really attempted to do what we’re doing in this way,” Dan said. “We’re essentially pioneering the concept here in the Pioneer Fire Protection District.

“The goal now is to continue building systems within the district, work through the unknowns and ultimately create a model that other counties, the state, and even other states could draw from,” he continued.

A fire protection district’s PPC rating is based on the following criteria: emergency communications (10%): reporting systems, telecommunicators, and dispatching, fire department (50%): equipment, staffing, training and geographic distribution, water supply (40%): inspection, flow testing, and hydrant availability.

The portable Remote Hydrant System will be used in a pilot program with the U.S. Forest Service this season and Dan said he hopes fire personnel and local leadership will see the value through using it in their fire suppression efforts. Local fire safe councils, counties and other government entities can pursue a FEMA grant through the county’s Office of Wildfire Preparedness and Cal Fire and private entities such as PG&E and Sierra Pacific Industries are sources of funding for communities to install the fixed and portable hydrants.

“I’m no math teacher but I know how to calculate percentages,” she said. “If our current superintendent receives a 6% increase to his $330,000 a year salary, he would earn an additional $19,800 a year. To put this in context, our superintendent would earn approximately one-third of a new teacher’s annual salary with this increase alone.”

Faulty Association rationale

Healthcare costs increased 22% for teachers hired after 2022. Health care is only expected to increase again next year. Without increasing the district’s contribution in an ongoing nature, newer teachers will fall even further behind.

Although teachers have kept up with COLA over the last five years, salaries have fallen short of inflation by 5.5% in that same five-year span. Even with a 6% increase for teachers, the district’s reserve would remain “low-risk.”

California law limits district reserves to 10%, which EDUHSD is well-above.

The superintendent’s salary, $323,000, is comparable to that of superintendents with districts more than three times EDUHSD’s size (example – Folsom-Cordova).

Teacher salaries fall short of the statewide average in every category (beginning, midrange and high), and surpasses the statewide average for site principals and superintendents (de.ca.gov/fg/fr/sa/cefavgsalaries.asp).

Students deserve a district that can attract and retain the best teachers in the area.

“All comp sites will be picketing on April 8 and April 14,” said Doubek. “We are anticipating another great teacher turnout at the next board meeting on April 14.”

have had their differences but he appreciated the GM’s efforts to get the district moving in the right direction. Director Sidney Bazett commended Johnson for helping the CSD balance its budget and changing the culture for the better while Director Katie Gilchrest thanked him for his professionalism, leadership and commitment.

Directors Isreal, Bazett, Gilchrest and J.R. Hichborn adopted a resolution of appreciation for Johnson, which was also presented to him on a plaque. Board President Dawn Wolfson was absent.

Johnson, wiping a few tears, expressed his gratitude for the kind words and all their support and hard work over the last 13 months. “I thought I was going to be here for two months,” he joked.

He reminded everyone they “have his cell number” before handing out specially made “small water glasses” to the directors and CSD/Cal Fire team.

Fees Continued from A1

Placerville’s new fees fall in the middle range compared with other cities and noted nearby jurisdictions are also considering similar increases.

Once implemented, the updated schedule is expected to generate about $7,000 in additional annual revenue for the city’s downtown parking program, based on an average increase of $29 per citation.

Council discussion touched on both the fairness and e ectiveness of the proposed fines.

Vice Mayor Jackie Neau suggested painting curbs near fire hydrants to improve compliance and reduce the need for citations.

Placerville resident Sue Rodman urged the council to adopt higher fines for hazardous violations, arguing the proposal did not go far enough to deter unsafe behavior.

“I think that there are two reasons to have parking fines,” Rodman said. “One is

Car repairs

to discourage illegal parking and the other one is to cover the costs.”

She added that some violations, such as blocking intersections or parking in fire lanes “should be more than just a $71 fine” to reflect the risk to public safety.

Councilmember John Clerici said legal considerations require a connection between the cost of enforcement and the amount charged.

“There has to be some nexus between what it costs you to do something and the fine,” Clerici said, explaining that excessive penalties could be subject to challenge.

The updated fees are intended to create a more consistent and equitable system while improving compliance and helping the city recover enforcement costs, according to Tornincasa.

The council approved the resolution unanimously at the public hearing.

Continued from A3

(Spanish) and enter their license plate or vehicle identification number (VIN) to see if their vehicle has an open recall. Nearly 80% of vehicles checked are repaired within 90 days.

The program encourages vehicle owners to check for any open recalls every three months and to schedule free recall repairs as soon as a fix is available.

“Road safety remains a critical priority for everyone traveling on California’s roads,” National Safety Council Check to Protect senior program manager Lonny Haschel said. “With millions of vehicles still operating with unrepaired safety recalls, it is essential for drivers to

New fee schedule

Illegal parking on public grounds — $70

Freeway parking prohibited — $70 (22500)

Parking in intersections —

$70

Parking in crosswalk — $70

Parking in safety zone —

$70

Parking within 15 feet of fire station driveway — $70

Parking in front of driveway — $70

Parking on sidewalk — $84

Parking blocking excavation — $70

Double parking — $70

Parking in bus loading zone (state mandated amount) — $295

Parking in tube or tunnel — $70

Parking on bridge — $70

Blocking sidewalk

wheelchair access (state mandated amount) — $295

Parking in posted fire lane — $70

Curb parking, more than 18 inches from curb or not

take simple steps to ensure their vehicles are safe. We urge all drivers to visit CheckToProtect.org, enter their vehicle information to check for any open recalls and schedule the free repair at an authorized dealership if one is found. When safety recalls are addressed, every roadway user benefits.”

“We take great pride in our member dealers o ering the best, safest vehicles,” California New Car Dealers Association President Brian Maas said. “All our dealers stand ready to help make sure your car is working e ciently and safely on every trip. Recall repairs are free and fixing recalls is a top priority for dealers,

parallel — $70

Parking on state highway — $70

Parking in or blocking handicapped zone (state mandated amount) — $295

Parking within 15 feet of fire hydrant — $81

Unattended vehicle with motor running or wheels not blocked — $70

Locked vehicle with person unable to escape — $81

Opening vehicle doors into tra c — $70

Parking on freeway — $81 (22520)

Parking on railroad tracks — $70

Parking within 3 feet of sidewalk access ramp (state mandated amount) — $295

Vehicle abandonment — $153

Blocking intersection — $164

Parking near intersections prohibited — $70

Parking in designated spaces only — $70 Overtime parking — $70

parking, red zone —

who want every driver in a safe car.”

“Vehicle recalls help ensure that all cars and trucks on our roads are safe to drive,” Auto Club Senior Public A airs Specialist Kandace Redd added. “Driving a vehicle that has had any recalls repaired also helps protect passengers and other people who use our roads, including people walking and biking.”

“Safety is the top priority for the auto industry, and making sure every vehicle recall repair is completed is crucial to keeping our roads safe,” Alliance for Automotive Innovation senior director of state a airs Curt Augustine shared. “In fact, reaching a 100 percent completion rate for

$70

Passenger loading zone, white curb — $70

Commercial loading zone, yellow curb — $70

Restricted time zone, green curb — $70

Two-hour parking limit, Acacia Way and Bennett Drive — $70

Nighttime parking restricted — $70

No parking zone — $70

Restricted parking of inanimate objects — $70

Residents-only parking, Acacia Way and Bennett Drive — $70

Parking that obstructs tra c — $70

Parking vehicle with trailer or attachment extending into tra c lane — $70

Parking in no-parking zone— $70

Parking outside designated spaces (not within white lines) — $70

Parking truck exceeding 1 ton — $70

Parking with vehicle backed into stall — $70

recalled vehicles is a shared goal of automakers, and we hope a shared goal of all stakeholders.”

Businesses and other organizations that operate fleets can also conduct bulk recall checks on the NSC website. All recalls are repaired for free at authorized dealers, regardless of where the vehicle was purchased. For more information visit CheckToProtect.org or CheckToProtect/org/es. Additionally, you may search for vehicles, car seats, tires and other equipment for safety recalls on the NHTSA website. To learn about other helpful ways to stay safe on to go visit GoSafelyCA. org.

Hero Sponsor Heroes Night

Boys & Girls Club El Dorado County Western Slope

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible community who made Heroes Night 2026 our most successful event to date. A very special thank you to Ron Mittelstaedt for his generous match on all funds raised that evening in direct support of The Landing.

Event Sponsors

Chad & Theresa Downey Verne & Chris Sanders s

Gold Sponsors

Cambridge Family Dave & Cindy Brazelton Joe Harn

Club Sponsors

Daryl & Lori Warden

El Dorado Savings Bank

Motherlode Rock n Ready Mix

SMUD

Joe Vicini, Inc. Peek Family Fund

Program Sponsors

Barsotti Family

Juice Company

Dan & Kelly DeWolf

Roy Carter Kings Meats

Cold Springs Dental

ParaMedical Labels, Inc.

Ski Air, Inc.

Solar Hut

Tom & Jane Meuser

Special Thanks

BGCE Board of Directors

Boeger Winery

Chris Sanders

El Dorado County Fairgrounds

Gordon & Renée Vicini

Jim & Maureen Carter

Kelli Vicini

Kitchen & Bar Crew

Madroña Vineyards Minuteman Press

Nugget Markets Ponderosa Floral

The Landing

Thank you EDCF for their fiscal partnership, marketing, & communications

PROSPECTING

For more information visit edchs. org.

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County host the Irrigation Workshop from 9 a.m. to noon at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden. Learn how to provide your plants with the water they need and reduce your water bill. To register visit tinyurl. com/3mkf6zc4.

Toogood Winery Tasting Room in Fairplay will host a Bottle Your Own Wine event from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit toogoodwinery.com.

The Cameron Park Community Services District will host Eggstreme Egg Hunt, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rassmussen Park in Cameron Park. For more information visit cameronpark.org.

Findleton Estate Winery in Camino will host Mystery Wine Tasting Day from noon to 4 p.m. Put your palate to the test & challenge your wine-tasting skills with six mystery wines. Correct guesses will win fun prizes. The event will also include wine trivia for the amateur sommeliers. Learn more at nzinwines.com.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host its Aqua Egg Hunt at the Community Pool from 1-3 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.

Sierra Vista Winery will host Live Request Jukebox by Love + Honey from 4-7 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.

The Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Spring Studio Artists Exhibition reception from 5-8 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

Ron Mansfield Memorial Scholarship Bowling Tournament will take place

The Spring Art Show is coming

Sylvia Coleman

Association

Placerville Arts

Pablo Picasso once said, “Painting is just another way of keeping a diary.” So just what will be the “diary” entries that the talented artists have prepared for this year’s Placerville Arts Association Spring Member Art Show? You are invited to see for yourself.

The annual PAA Spring Member Art Show will be held at the El Dorado County Government Center during the week of April 6, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the show, PAA artists and greeters will be on site to answer questions, show guests around and assist with the purchase of artwork. Visitors are encouraged to vote for the People’s Choice Award.

And yes, the one-of-a-kind art “diaries” will be available for purchase.

Media matters, and the Placerville Arts Association takes it seriously. The artworks in the 2026 spring show will be gallery-hung in media categories, including oils, acrylic and water-based media, sculpture, pastel and drawing, photography, mixed media and collage and miscellaneous. There will also be a new category for “Small Works,” defined as 12-by-12-inch artworks, framed or unframed.

Exhibition judges

PAA is particularly excited to welcome husband-and-wife artists Joe Bellacera and Paula Bellacera as judges for the exhibition.

Joe Bellacera, a Northern California native, studied art at several institutions, including the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Humboldt State University, where he earned a master’s degree, and the University of California

Santa Barbara, where he received a master of fine arts. A prolific artist, Joe has exhibited throughout the United States. In addition to three decades of producing fine art for private and corporate clients, he has completed public art projects for colleges, libraries and health care facilities nationwide. His projects include murals, largescale multi-panel paintings and sculptures. Nature and luminosity inspire his work, which focuses on the perception of space, light and pattern. Paula Bellacera is also an award-winning artist, accomplished in a wide variety of media. A Sacramento native, she took her first pottery course at California State University, Sacramento. She has long supported local arts communities and was a founding member of Sacramento’s Viewpoint Photographic Art Center. She has presented workshops, curated exhibitions and judged numerous shows. Paula has exhibited in more than 50

Experience a tribute to the Man in Black

Jeannette Maynard

El Dorado County Community Concert Association

The El Dorado County Community Concert Association will present James Garner’s tribute to Johnny Cash at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 2, as its sixth and final concert of the 2025-26 season.

Garner and his show band capture the live sound of Cash’s legendary music with striking accuracy. The performance is more than just a concert — it is a worldclass tribute to the “Man in Black” that has captivated audiences across the country.

Featured on local PBS stations, along with performances at Folsom and San Quentin prisons, the show is a must-see event for Cash fans. Audiences can expect to hear classics such as “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Ring of Fire,” “I Walk the

Line” and “A Boy Named Sue” in a performance designed to get people tapping their toes and singing along.

To gain admission to the April 2 concert, members must present their 2025-26 season membership card and will be seated first.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as a full house is expected. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Nonmembers may purchase tickets with cash at the will-call table if space is available. The concert begins at 7 p.m. at Union Mine High School Theatre, 6530 Koki Lane in El Dorado.

The membership drive for the 2026-27 season will begin in June, and the organization’s website will be updated in the coming weeks with additional details. For more information visit eldoradocommunityconcerts. com or call (530) 409-8945.

Bella White brings evolving Americana sound to

anadian-born

Csinger-songwriter Bella White is bringing her evolving sound to Folsom this spring, o ering local audiences a preview of her next musical chapter.

White is scheduled to perform at the Folsom Hotel Saturday, April 18 at 7 p.m. as part of her latest tour, which coincides with the announcement of her third studio album, “A Sign In The Weather,” set for release June 5 on Rounder Records.

The upcoming album marks a notable shift for White, whose earlier work was rooted in traditional bluegrass. With “A Sign In The Weather,” she expands into a moodier, more atmospheric blend of folk and Americana, signaling a bold evolution in both sound and storytelling.

The project follows her recent releases, including the 2023 album “Among Other Things” and her 2024 covers EP “Five For Silver.” It also builds on the momentum of singles “Little Things” and “Dream Song,” while introducing her newest track, “False Start.”

Written entirely by White and co-produced with New Orleans-based musician Ross Farbe, the album was created with a close circle of collaborators. The group includes drummer Sam Gelband, bassist Gina Leslie, guitarist Nick Corson and pedal steel player Nikolai Shveitser, alongside contributions from additional musicians and longtime

Youth

bandmates.

The result is a collection that highlights White’s expressive vocals and intricate guitar work, while leaning into a more expansive and textured sound.

“This album was a real labor of love and so empowering to make,” White said in a statement. “It validated that I trust myself and trust my vision, and now I just want to keep doing it my way.”

Her latest single, “False Start,” reflects that deeper creative

direction. Written in response to climate disasters and what she describes as the distraction of “surfacelevel drama,” the song channels frustration into a cathartic, slowbuilding release. White has earned widespread recognition for her ability to translate complex emotions into intimate, accessible songs. Her previous albums, including “Just Like Leaving,” have drawn praise from major outlets and helped establish

her as a standout voice in contemporary Americana.

As she prepares to release “A Sign In The Weather,” her stop in Folsom o ers fans a chance to experience that artistic growth firsthand — and hear how her sound continues to push beyond its roots. For news and updates visit BellaWhiteMusic. com. For more information and tickets to the show visit folsomhotelsaloon.com/ events.

musicians invited to compete at Golden Road

oung musicians ages 7-18 are invited to participate in the third annual Kids Showcase Competition at the

Gathering Music Festival, organizers announced. The competition o ers a performance opportunity for children and teens to showcase their musical talents in a live festival setting.

El Dorado County local and festival co-founder Justin Boyd said supporting young performers is a key part of the event’s mission.

“Supporting our future talent is a great addition to the Golden Road Gathering,” Boyd said. “Encouraging youth and building confidence is a positive way to give back to the community.”

The showcase was created by local music teacher Lisa Bond, a member of the band Red Dirt Ruckus. Bond said she was inspired to create more opportunities for young musicians to perform.

“Performing builds confidence, discipline in preparation and joy in sharing your talent,” Bond said.

The top three winners in

each age category will earn the opportunity to perform at the festival.

Age groups include 7-9, 10-12, 13-15 and 16-18. Solo artists, duos, trios and full bands are encouraged to apply. Participants must have parent permission and submit a completed application along with an online video audition by May 1. For more information, visit GoldenRoadGathering.com and navigate to the Kids Music Competition tab under Festival Info.

Free WinterWonderGrass pop-up show set for Tahoe

Rebecca Murphy News release

After just a few short years at Palisades Tahoe, WinterWonderGrass took 2025 off to reassess expenses and logistics. The festival will not return to Palisades in 2026, but organizers will present a free WinterWonderGrass pop-up concert Saturday, April 18, from 2-7 p.m. on the Palisades Tahoe KT Deck.

The event will feature performances by The Broken Compass and Pickin’ on the Dead.

Broken Compass

The Broken Compass has taken the music world by storm since the four-member group reconnected in 2020. The band performed this year at WinterWonderGrass Steamboat Springs, the first WinterWonderGrass experience established by founder Scotty Sloughton more than a decade ago. Their journey back to California will bring them to Palisades Tahoe for the pop-up show.

Rooted primarily in bluegrass, The Broken Compass includes Django Kale Ruckrich on guitar and mandolin; Kyle Ledson on mandolin and fiddle; Mei Lin Heirendt on violin; and Sam Jacobs on bass. Though young in age, the musicians bring years of experience and are helping shape a new generation of progressive acoustic and jam-grass music.

Django Kale Ruckrich

Ruckrich began playing music at age 4, starting with flatpicking guitar before progressing to traditional fiddle tunes and later mandolin. He began performing alongside his father and spent 10 years with the Ruckrich Family Band. Growing up in the Nevada CityGrass Valley area, Ruckrich had frequent opportunities to perform. His first EP, released as the Ruckrich Duo, was produced by multiinstrumentalist Joe Craven and showcases his abilities on guitar, mandolin, fiddle, piano, bass and vocals.

During the 2020 pandemic, Ruckrich reunited with his current bandmates, with whom he had previously played. He has said The Broken Compass allows him to fully express his musical influences and bluegrass roots. Like Ledson, Ruckrich has shared the stage with Ben Kaufman of Yonder Mountain String Band, Joe Craven and members of Hot Buttered Rum.

Kyle Ledson

Ledson released his first album, “Crooked Mandolin,” while in eighth grade. The project was a collaboration with members of Hot Buttered Rum, the T Sisters and Molly Tuttle. His sophomore album, “Left It All Behind,” was released in 2021 and features Ben Kaufman, Dan Lebowitz, Ezra Lipp and Steve Adams of ALO.

In addition to performing with The Broken Compass and Kyle Ledson & Friends, Ledson also plays in the electric psychedelic rock jam band Cosmic Frog, based in Chico. Mei Lin Heirendt

Heirendt was trained in the Suzuki method, a music education approach developed by Shinichi Suzuki that emphasizes learning through listening, repetition and parental involvement. Training typically begins at ages 3 or 4.

She played in the Music in the Mountains Youth Orchestra and became concertmaster in 2017 at age 12. Raised in the Nevada City-Grass Valley area, Heirendt has performed at the Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival for many years and is active with the California Bluegrass Association, where she serves as a youth adviser and social media coordinator and previously served as a regional director.

Her father, Robert Heirendt, is a co-founder of Boston Ravine. In 2018, Heirendt was featured on the band’s self-produced album “Ragged Road.”

From 2020 to 2021, she was selected as one of 24 youths nationwide to participate in the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Kids on Bluegrass program and was later chosen as one of six to perform at the IBMA awards show reception in Raleigh, N.C.

In addition to her work with The Broken Compass, Heirendt co-founded the five-piece bluegrass band West 45 with Ida Winfree and is preparing to record original songs in Nashville.

Sam Jacobs Jacobs grew up in San Luis Obispo, where music influenced his life from

an early age. He began on saxophone before gravitating toward guitar and upright and electric bass. He performed with the Cuesta College Jazz Band and later completed the recording arts program at California State Univeristy, Chico in 2023.

Jacobs has since engineered and produced recordings for several artists and bands, including mixing and mastering The Broken Compass album Through These Trees.

Pickin’ on the Dead

While Pickin’ on the Dead albums typically feature a rotating cast of artists, the WinterWonderGrass pop-up concert lineup includes Tyler Grant, Adrian “Ace” Engfer, Sean Macaulay and Michael Kirkpatrick.

Tyler Grant

Grant is a National Flatpicking Champion, seasoned river guide and regular performer at RiverWonderGrass, another of Sloughton’s festival ventures. Raised in Southern California, Grant pursued music at the California Institute of the Arts, earning a bachelor’s degree in music performance.

He performed early in his career with the Electric Waste Band, earning induction into the San Diego Music Hall of Fame. While studying classical music, Grant discovered bluegrass flatpickers Tony Rice and David Grier, whose work inspired him to apply classical training to bluegrass technique.

After relocating to Nashville, Grant toured with Abigail Washburn and later joined the Drew Emmitt Band, which evolved into the Emmitt-Nershi Band. He eventually settled in the Rocky Mountains, where he has lived since 2009.

Grant founded the cosmic Americana band Grant Farm in 2010. The band released five albums and toured extensively until 2020. During the pandemic, Grant shifted toward livestreaming and online instruction before becoming a river guide with Adrift Adventures on the Green and Yampa rivers in Dinosaur National Monument.

Grant released his seventh solo album, “Flatpicker,” in March 2025. He teaches online through Flatpicking Academy on ArtistWorks. com, TrueFire.com and his YouTube channel and also instructs at workshops nationwide.

Adrian “Ace” Engfer

Engfer, a longtime contributor to Grant Farm, considers Grant a mentor but has developed his own distinct style as a singer-songwriter. His album “Time Drifts Away,” released in 2025, explores themes of travel, memory and lost love through a blend of roots-based and atmospheric sounds.

A classically trained violinist, Engfer studied in Santa Cruz before attending California State University, Humboldt, where he studied with master bassist Shah Way Wu. He has lived in Colorado for the past 15 years and performed with Grant Farm, Kind Hearted Strangers and Madeline Hawthorne, among others.

Michael Kirkpatrick

Colorado-based vocalist and songwriter Kirkpatrick has built a strong presence in the regional music scene. His emotive vocals bring lyrics centered on dreams, sensuality and reverence for nature to life. With more than 30 years of performance experience, Kirkpatrick has received multiple songwriting awards, including the Telluride Troubadour honor. He is also the frontman for Violet Pilot, a neo-

psychedelic Americana band. His mentors include Sam Bush, and he has shared the stage with Zac Brown, Charlie Musselwhite, Billy Valentine, Jim Belushi, Darol Anger and Leftover Salmon.

Kirkpatrick has received numerous accolades, including six best singersongwriter awards from the Fort Collins Musicians Association and the city’s lifetime achievement award in 2019. Violet Pilot released its debut album, “Glad We Found You,” in 2022.

Sean Macaulay

Joining Kirkpatrick in Violet Pilot is drummer and percussionist Macaulay, a longtime collaborator who has performed at BajaGrass and other festivals. Macaulay describes the band’s sound as a collision between a classical orchestra and a rock-and-roll band.

Together with The Broken Compass, these four musicians will bring the music of the Grateful Dead to Palisades Tahoe on Saturday, April 18.

Easily

Heaviest

Fits

Shock-absorbing

News release

The latest winning images from the California Watchable Wildlife

Photo of the Year contest showcase the remarkable diversity, beauty and behavior of wildlife across the state.

Selected as part of the 2026 contest’s ongoing bi-monthly judging periods, the photographs highlight everything from intimate animal interactions to sweeping natural scenes, all captured in California’s varied landscapes. The annual competition invites photographers to submit images of native wildlife and habitats, with winners chosen based on technical excellence, composition, difficulty and overall storytelling impact.

These images represent some of the standout moments observed in the wild, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich ecosystems while celebrating the skill and patience of the photographers behind the lens.

California Watchable Wildlife connects people with opportunities to see California’s native wildlife in natural habitats across the state. Managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the program promotes responsible wildlife viewing, conservation awareness and outdoor recreation through site information, seasonal tips and educational resources. Learn more at cawatchablewildlife.org.

Art Continued from B1

She has presented workshops, curated exhibitions and judged numerous shows. Paula has exhibited in more than 50 solo and two-person shows across the United States and internationally, and her work is included in more than 200 public and private collections.

This year, the couple’s art will be featured in a curated exhibition at the Museum of Northern California Art, and they will participate in Sacramento Open Studios.

Silent auction

During the show, PAA will o er a piece of scratchboard art in a silent auction. The work, matted and framed to 16-by-20 inches, is ready to hang. The artist, Shirley Isola, is a longtime PAA member who has received numerous awards for her scratchboard work. Known for her detailed renderings of horses, she also depicts wild cats, dogs, bears and other animals, often based on her own photographs.

Visitors are invited to view the exhibition and place bids on the piece. Bidding closes at 3 p.m. Friday, April 10. Participants should include contact information on the bid sheet.

Guests are encouraged to take a break from daily routines and explore the “diaries” PAA artists have created over the past year.

About the Placerville Arts Association

The Placerville Arts Association promotes the creative work of its members, provides opportunities for

artists to share ideas and fosters public interest through visual arts events. Its outreach program supports community arts initiatives with funding and

Stay up to date on all your favorite local sports teams and events with a subscription to the Mountain Democrat website: mtdemocrat.com. Call (530) 622-1255.

MOBILE HOME FOR SALE BY OWNER

Needs some repairs.

“Sno Coat” roof by Winters.

Rent space $850 per month plus utilities. Tool shed and garden tools, all furniture if desired.

Electric heat only.

See and make offer. (530) 622-1549 NO REALTORS PLEASE.

membership that includes both

and patrons. For more information visit placervillearts.com.

Poem of the Month

“DAY 113”

To

“DAY 114”

I

at Knotty Pine Lanes in Pollock Pines at 10 a.m. Fore more information email edwgga@ gmail.com.

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Citrus Heights will host an Egg Hunt from 10 a.m. to noon at 7869 Kingswood Drive. Admission is free. For more information visit stmarkslutheran.com. Cordova Recreation and Park

District will host Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hagan Community Park, 2197 Chase Drive, Rancho Cordova. For more information visit cordovarpd.gov.

E2 Church in Elk Grove will host the E2 Easter Egg Hunt from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the Bunny Bash Special Needs Egg Hunt at 10 a.m. at Cosumnes Oaks High School, 8350 Lotz Pkwy. Admission is free. For more

Will Shortz No. 0223

information visit e2church.com.

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom will host Folsom Lake Symphony’s Passion and Power at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter. net.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents Maximum Occupancy — Improv at 8 p.m. at The So a in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley presents Best of San Francisco Stand-up Comedy at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.

March 29

Join American River Conservancy for the Poppy Walk in Coloma/ Lotus from 3-5 p.m. A detailed email will be sent once you register online at ARConservancy. org.

Andis Wines in Plymouth will host Lunch with the Winemaker from 1-3 p.m.

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour with winemaker Mark Fowler, including a guided walk through production areas, insight into harvest and aging, curated tastings — including one straight from the barrel — and fresh on-site paella by Maria’s Paella. For more information visit andiswines.com.

Casino Mine Ranch Winery in Plymouth will host Sierra Wildlife Rescue for a WinePaired Presentation under the Trellis from 11: 30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For more information visit casinomineranch.com.

Cordova Church of Christ will host the Kids’ Easter Egg Hunt from noon to 2:30 p.m. at 10577 Coloma Road, Rancho Cordova. Lunch provided to all attendees and admission is free. For more information visit cordovachurch. com.

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom will host Paci c ChamberFest presenting Mikhail Voskresensky — Piano Recital & Masterclass at 3 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents B Street’s 40th Anniversary Panel Series — A Conversation with Jack Gallagher & Jerry Montoya at 4:30 p.m. at The So a in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

April 1

The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley presents Nick Lowe with Cactus Blossoms at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.

April 2

The El Dorado County Community Concert Association will present James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash at 7 p.m. at Union Mine High School. Tickets available at the door, arrive early. Learn more at eldoradocommunityconcerts. com.

April 4

The Experimental Aircraft Association, Chapter 512, will host its Famous Pancake Breakfast fundraiser 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 El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host its Easter Egg Hunt & Pictures with the Easter Bunny event at Promontory Park at 9 a.m. sharp. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.

Placerville

2 p.m. at 2952 Carson Road, Placerville. Admission is free. For more information and to register visit boavista.com.

Ed Wilson will perform at Placerville Speedway from 4-6 p.m.

Fairytale Town in Sacramento presents its Spring Eggstravaganza from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit fairytaletown.org.

Fair Oaks Recreation and Parks District will host the Easter Eggstravaganza from 9 a.m. to noon at Fair Oaks Park, 11549 Fair Oaks Blvd., Fair Oaks. Admission is free. For more information visit Now Registration is now live for the 2026 Wheelbarrow Races to take place Saturday, June 20 from 5-8 p.m. at the El Dorado County Fair. For more information or to register visit studebakerwheelbarrowraces.

With the glut of hardboiled eggs bound to be found this season, having a plan helps reduce waste while keeping menus fresh. Deviled eggs remain a classic option. This savory version by Jeff Sikes features a creamy blend of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard and vinegar, finished with a garnish of fresh dill, making it a crowdpleaser for spring gatherings.

Classic savory deviled eggs

Yields 12 halves (6 servings) Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 hard-cooked eggs, halved

Classic Savory Deviled Eggs

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh dill, optional

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• 12 sprigs fresh dill, optional

Directions

1. Place egg yolks in a bowl and set whites aside.

2. Add mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, chopped dill, garlic powder and salt to the yolks and mash until smooth.

3. Spoon or pipe the mixture into the egg whites.

4. Garnish with dill sprigs, if desired.

5. Refrigerate until ready to serve.