Mountain Democrat, Friday, April 10, 2026

– Weekend Edition –

Peanut Harms named a hall of famer

Supes support letter asking for state funds

■ New mandates will cost millions

Noel

Stack Editor

Already grappling with expenditures outpacing revenue and more di cult budget cuts to come, El Dorado County leaders must handle new mandates that could further drain the general fund.

House Resolution 1 — the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — passed last summer and shifts some Medi-Cal and CalFresh responsibilities from the state to counties. However, the money to cover these new obligations didn’t follow. In an e ort to encourage state leaders to include funding in the 2006-27 state budget, the California State Association of Counties is lobbying legislators and asking county leaders to join its e ort.

On April 7 the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors approved sending a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom, the President pro Tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the Assembly

PLACE ADDRESS LABEL HERE

that requests action to mitigate severe fiscal and operational impacts of HR 1 on county safety net programs.

CSAC estimates the total cost to California’s 58 counties to be $6 billion-$9.5 billion and has requested $1.9 billion be included in the 2026-27 state budget and $4.5 the following year.

El Dorado County o cials are still crunching the numbers as to its anticipated funding need for mandated indigent care services, Medi-Cal and CalFresh eligibility checks and behavioral health services. Director of Communications and Deputy Chief Administrative O cer Carla Hass said it’s “likely in the millions of dollars.”

Additional mandates without necessary financial support had supervisors shaking their heads after CSAC Chief Executive O cer Graham Knaus’ presentation Tuesday afternoon.

“Counties can only do what the state funds us to do,” District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin lamented. “But I don’t know if the legislators know that. I feel that they come up with these mandates and pieces of legislation ... (but) counties can’t run in a deficit. Do they know that? I mean, there’s just fundamental things I don’t know if the folks at the state level understand.”

“I’m not sure how we get their attention. Obviously, this letter of support would be good, and I think ... there’ll be a lot of counties unified in it,” District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp said. But, they don’t tend to listen very well so we’ve got to get their attention somehow.”

District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero maintained the state has enough money — even though leaders at that

Mike Bush Mountain Democrat correspondent

Peanut Harms has coached many winning teams at El Dorado High School.

The assistant coach for the El Dorado boys and girls track and field squads this spring season, his new role after serving as head coach since 2001, and the head coach for the Cougar boys and girls cross country teams has won more than 40 Sierra Valley Conference and Sac-Joaquin Section titles in the last 25 years.

Pacific Hall of Fame at the sixth annual recognition awards banquet held in Richmond. Harms was one of three people inducted, joining running legends Ann Trason and Paul Spangler.

“It just came out of nowhere. There is no applying for anything like that.”

—EDHS Coach Peanut Harms

“It just came out of nowhere,” said Harms of being notified by email on his induction into the hall of fame earlier this year. “There is no applying for anything like that. It was really cool the way it happened.”

Harms’ success in building the lives of many El Dorado studentathletes caught the attention of USA Track and Field, which recently inducted the coach into the USATF

More than 58 people who have made significant contributions to track and field, long-distance running and race walking are honored in the USATF Pacific Hall of Fame thus far.

“It’s a good award,” Harms said. “It’s

Dishing up MORE

Andrew Vonderschmitt

Features editor

At Mother Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises, the commercial kitchen has become more than a place to cook daily meals. It is a training ground where clients gain confidence, independence and, for many, a pathway to employment.

“We started it because we had a lot of clients asking about working in the kitchen,” said Program Director Heather Avila. “In order to do that, there’s a process.” Trainees had to obtain food handler certifications and commit to the program.

Experts in the kitchen

The program serves a dual purpose — preparing participants for jobs in local restaurants while helping them learn to safely manage their own kitchens at home. Many participants

Marjorie Anne

Marmorstein

Jan. 10, 1927 - Mar. 21, 2026

Marjorie Anne Ringstad Marmorstein was born on January 10, 1927, the third child of Myron Henry and Muriel Esther (Proctor) Ringstad in Tacoma, Washington. She grew up on Bainbridge Island and in the Seattle area with her sister, Elaine, and brother, Myron Jr. At a very young age, Marjorie set a goal to “Get married and repopulate the world with wonderful people.” She achieved this goal by marrying Robert Marmorstein and having six children: Arthur (Donna) Marmorstein, Aberdeen, SD; Marc (Jill) Marmorstein, Roseville, Ca; Jody (Pamela) Marmorstein, Manchester, Mo; Paul (Anjeanette) Marmorstein, Lake Arrowhead, Ca; Eric (1960 - 1970) and Marta Jean (Jay) Linzy, El Dorado Hills, Ca. The legacy continues with 19 grandchildren, and, to date, 38 great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren.

Marjorie received a Bachelor’s Degree in journalism from the University of Washington in 1947. She then moved to San Francisco where she worked as a reporter and ad manager for the Daly City Record. It was there that she met her husband, Bob, while attending a folk dance class that he was teaching.

After marrying, Marjorie continued her education, earning a teaching credential in elementary education.

The family moved to El Dorado Hills in 1965 and became very active in the new community. Marjorie was a Cub Scout Den Mother, a Swim Team and Little League Parent and a substitute teacher for both the Buckeye and Rescue School Districts. She and Bob also began “The El Dorado Hills News Page” where they reported on events and issues happening in the community. The news was published weekly in The Cordovan Newspaper.

In 1970, Marjorie accepted a full-time job as a Special Education teacher at Plymouth Elementary School. She remained with the Amador County schools until her retirement in 1996.

After retirement Marjorie stayed busy with traveling, dancing, Church, Bible Study, Bridge and Cribbage Clubs as well as very active involvement with her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

Though slowed down by a stroke in 2020, Marjorie continued to live as full a life as possible. She especially loved spending time outdoors, visiting national and state parks and exploring local hiking trails and swimming holes. Marjorie also participated in many activities at the EDH Senior Center including line-dancing and ukulele.

Above all, Marjorie cherished visits with her family. She found the positive in every situation and the good in every person.

In addition to direct descendants, Marjorie is survived by her sister, Elaine, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, her son, Eric, her brother, Myron, her daughter-in-law, Pamela, and her granddaughter, Page.

Marjorie was a true matriarch of the family and set the bar high for all who follow. She will be greatly missed.

Charles Edward (Chuck) Huot

Sep. 20, 1950 - Mar. 7, 2026

Charles Edward Huot was born on September 20, 1950 in Placerville, California to his father Harold Huot and mother Ada Huot of Diamond Springs, California. Both are deceased. Chuck was the middle child.

Chuck passed away peacefully at home on March 7, 2026, with his beloved wife of 52 years, Jenifer, by his side. He is survived by his wife Jenifer, his children, Stacey Roberts and Chris Huot, grandson Colton Roberts, granddaughter Jenna Roberts, and great grandkids Charlie and Sebastian, who loved Chuck as their papa. Chuck met his wife Jenifer on a blind date at the Hangtown Pharmacy parking lot.

Chuck graduated from Ponderosa High School and left home after to pursue a long career in the woods as a cat skinner for R&G Lumber Company. Later he worked for Bozarth Logging and lastly worked for Bordges Timber as a full-time mechanic. Chuck loved working in the woods as a logger before changing his career to work for Joe Vicini Inc. He retired there after eighteen years. He never stopped working with his hands. He loved working on his 1934 Ford pickup at his own shop. Chuck shared a passion for camping, hunting and fishing. He was a sheep leader in 4-H, where everywhere Chuck went he was never a stranger. Because of his ability to take control and give it his best no matter what, he loved a challenge. He excelled at everything he did. Chuck was a resident of the town of Placerville for 75 years.

Chuck’s service will be held on April 23, at 1pm at Green Valley Community Church: 3500 Missouri Flat Rd. Placerville, Ca 95667.

Richard Scott (Rick) Dyer

Jan. 21, 1957 - Mar. 9, 2026

Richard Scott Dyer passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on March 9th, 2026.

Rick is survived by Julie, his wife of 45 years, sons Kellen and Joe, sisters Denise Lisle and Debbie (Rusty) Harris and many nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws.

Rick was born to Richard and Leila Dyer in Chico, CA. After living in Concord, the family moved to Swansboro Country when Rick was in Jr. High. He loved riding horses with his friends until he discovered his passion for motorcycles. He raced vintage motocross which took him to many states in the U.S. Rick also enjoyed spending time with his family boat camping and water skiing, as the boys were growing up.

Rick began his business, Swansboro Builders in 1978 and built many homes in El Dorado County, including the family home and barn/woodshop. He loved tinkering on motorcycles and custom wood working projects throughout his life.

There will be a gathering to celebrate Rick’s life on May 9, 2026.

Please email: rememberingrick05092026@gmail. com for further details.

Richard Clyde (Dick)

Akin Jun. 24, 1930 - Mar. 26, 2026

Richard (Dick) Akin passed away peacefully at The Pines Skilled Nursing facility in Placerville on Thursday, March 26, 2026. He was 95 years old but had the energy of a much younger man; actively participating in events at the El Dorado County Marine Corps League and the VFW for over 20 years. He will be sorely missed by his vet buddies as he devoted many hours caring for and helping those vets in need.

He leaves behind his wife, Neva, with whom he had just celebrated 40 years of marriage on December 1, 2025. His family included 2 children by a former marriage, 3 stepchildren (Neva’s), 3 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren. He joined the Marine Corps in high school and was a Korean war veteran deployed to Kangnun Air Base just below the 38th parallel in Korea from late 1950 to 1952. During his years with the veteran groups, he was often seen in full dress uniform carrying the American flag at various ceremonies at the Veterans Memorial Monument and the Veterans Memorial Building in Placerville. In 2026, he was honored as the oldest living Marine in El Dorado County. Ooh-rah!

There will be a Celebration of Life for Dick at the Veterans Memorial Building at 11am on Saturday June 6, 2026, followed by a luncheon served by Ladies Auxiliary. 130 Placerville Dr, Placerville, CA 95667

Melvin Fisher

Aug. 16, 1930 - Mar. 24, 2026

Melvin Fisher, age 95, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. He is survived by one sibling, Rodney, who lives in Kentucky. He is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews and 13 great nieces and great nephews who are scattered around the United States. Melvin himself has one son, Mark, who lives in Idaho, and one daughter, Angela, who lives in California. Mark has one daughter, Julayne, who also lives in Idaho and she gave Melvin two wonderful great grandsons, Parker and Warner, also in Idaho. Angela has one son, Derek, and one daughter, Milo, who both live in California. Derek has also given him two wonderful greatgranddaughters, Aubree and Emma, who both live in California.

Melvin loved to socialize and play games with his friends but the thing he loved the most was playing with his great grandchildren.

We’re having a small celebration of life ceremony at the clubhouse at the apartments where he resided: 4015 Panther Lane, Diamond Springs at 11:00 a.m. on April 10th.

T. Burt McNaughton (530) 344-5055 tbmcnaughton@mtdemocrat.net EDITORIAL STAFF

Donna Lee Cribbs

Feb. 4, 1938 - Jan. 20, 2026

Donna Lee Cribbs, 87, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, in Boise, Idaho. She was born on February 4, 1938, in Brackenridge, Pennsylvania, and lived a life marked by deep faith, generous love, and extraordinary hospitality.

Donna was the beloved wife of the late Robert (Bob) William Cribbs Jr., whom she married in 1957. Together they built a life rooted in devotion to one another and their family. She was also preceded in death by her cherished grandson, Royce William Cribbs.

She is lovingly survived by her children Robert (Bob) Cribbs III (Margaret), Mark Cribbs (Cathy), and Sherry Graf (Scott); her sister Faye Kenney; her grandchildren Jason Wetsel (Kristi), Sommer Wetsel, Anneleise Thompson (Julius), Gretchen Aubrey (Nick), Tensor Chen, and Weijing Chen (Weiling); and her great-grandchildren Taggart Wetsel, Trent Wetsel, Myles Aubrey, Lyla Lee Aubrey, and Adam Chen.

Donna was raised in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, where her parents, Charles and Alma Weitzel, owned Oklahoma Florist. It was there that Donna’s lifelong love of flowers began. An exceptional gardener with exquisite taste, she spent countless joyful hours cultivating beauty, arranging home-grown bouquets, and creating spaces that felt both elegant and deeply welcoming.

In 1960, Donna and Bob moved to California with their sons Bob and Mark, welcoming their daughter Sherry in Orangevale before settling in Placerville, California. There, they built their family home on a cattle ranch, a place that became legendary for its warmth and open doors. Donna was a devoted homemaker, loving wife, and nurturing mother. To her children’s friends, she was simply “Mom.” To her grandchildren’s friends, she was always “Grandma.” Her home was a refuge, her table always full, and her heart endlessly generous.

A devout and dedicated follower of Christ, Donna loved the Lord deeply. Her faith in Jesus infused every part of her life, shaping her generosity, kindness, and servant’s heart.

Donna was well traveled alongside Bob, journeying the world for both business and adventure. Among their travels, Egypt held a particularly special place in their hearts, where they formed lifelong friendships that became family. Those connections remain a treasured part of the Cribbs family story.

Donna gave generously of her time, talents, and resources, serving as a CASA Youth Advocate in El Dorado County, a philanthropist, and a volunteer at her local church. She was a founding board member of Compassion Tea, beautifully blending her love for tea with her passion for philanthropy.

In 2021, Donna moved to Star, Idaho, with her daughter Sherry and family, where she continued tending her garden and surrounding those she loved with care until the end of her life.

A public service will be held on Wednesday, April 29th at North Coast Church in El Dorado Hills, CA. In Donna’s memory, all are also invited to plant flowers, tend a garden, or pause to enjoy something beautiful - just as she always did.

Donna Lee Cribbs leaves behind a legacy of faith, hospitality, beauty, and love. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

LAKE LEVELS

Caples Lake

Storage - 21,636 acre feet

Percent full - 96.82%

Echo Lake

Storage - 1,754

El Dorado Forebay

Shelly Thorene Staff writer

530-344-5063 / sthorene@mtdemocrat.net

Chris Woodard Staff writer chrisw@mtdemocrat.com GRAPHICS

Letty Bejarano-Carvajal Graphics Manager (530)

“Staff

/ lettyb@mtdemocrat.net

of mtdemocrat.com for

EDSO CRIME LOG

The following information

Diane Dealey Neill Amador-El Dorado Forest Forum

On Wednesday, April 15, the Amador-El Dorado Forest Forum will host John Quidichay, field operations manager at Landmark Environmental, to give a presentation on the “MAC” Project — Phase 1 summary and Phase 2 overview. The meeting will be at The Breakroom, 4131 South Shingle Road, Suite 7, Shingle Springs. The Upper Mokelumne River Watershed Authority is leading a coalition of partners in planning and implementing projects to restore and enhance disaster resilience to Upper Mokelumne forests. Beginning in early 2022, the coalition began aggressively pursuing the twophased Mokelumne-Amador-Calaveras Forest Health and Resilience Project. The Phase 1 plan prescribed treatments to about 26,000 priority acres. Phase 2 will develop a comprehensive

DA officials oppose sex offender’s early release Get ‘MAC’ details at next forest forum

El Dorado County District

The El Dorado County District

Attorney’s Office successfully opposed the early release of inmate Scott Alan Staples during a March 5 elder parole hearing before the California Board of Parole Hearings.

For the victims, the hearing required revisiting painful experiences they have worked hard to move forward from. They were re-traumatized, forced to relive and recount horrific abuse because of California’s elder parole laws, which now allow violent offenders to be considered for early release once they reach age 50.

In 2018, Penal Code §3055 established elder parole eligibility for inmates who were 60 years or older and had served at least 25 years in state prison. Since that time, eligibility has expanded significantly. Today, inmates qualify for elder parole consideration at just 50 years old after serving 20 years, substantially increasing the number of offenders eligible for early release. When this happens, the inmate is entitled to a hearing where victims may speak about the facts of the underlying crimes and continued impact on their lives.

These laws allowed Staples — despite the severity of his crimes and long prison sentence — to seek early release after serving less than half of his sentence.

Staples was convicted and sentenced in 2006 to 48 years in state prison for continuous sexual abuse of three separate victims. One victim, identified as S.G., was subjected to rape and molestation from just 4 years old to 10 years old, when she ultimately disclosed the abuse. She stated she came forward because she was “sick of it” and “could not take it anymore.”

“Scott made the choices that put him here. I understand that this policy is meant for those who can be reformed and have a low likelihood of offending again. This man is not one of those people,” said S.G.

The District Attorney’s Office argued that Staples continues to pose a danger to the community, citing his ongoing minimization of his offenses, lack of accountability and concerning risk assessments.The board agreed, issuing a five-year denial of parole. He will not be eligible again until 2031.

The facts of this case, as well as the fact that Staples received a parole hearing so quickly, are deeply

n See OPPOSITION , page A9

What Californians need to know before tax deadline

SACRAMENTO — Franchise Tax

Board reminds Californians that April 15 is the deadline for most taxpayers to file and pay their 2025 taxes. FTB offers free filing options, cashback tax credits, tips on how to avoid scams and making secure online payments.

“Tax Day is approaching, and Californians should know they can file for free and claim valuable cashback tax credits,” said State Controller and FTB Chair Malia M. Cohen.

“Millions qualify for the California Earned Income Tax Credit, and many families can also get the Young Child Tax Credit. These credits can put a significant amount of money back in people’s pockets.”

Free filing options

• CalFile: File your state tax return electronically at no cost. E-filing is

faster, more accurate and provides immediate confirmation. FTB recommends choosing direct deposit for a safe and timely refund.

• In-person help: Free tax preparation is available for low to moderate income taxpayers through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.

Cash back credits

The California Earned Income Tax Credit is here to support hardworking Californians with low incomes. If you qualify, you could receive up to $3,756 in cash back or reduce your tax burden. Additionally, CalEITC may open the door to other benefits, such as the Young Child Tax Credit and the Foster Youth Tax Credit. To find out if you qualify for CalEITC or related tax credits, visit the eligibility and credit information page.

n See TAXES , page A9

OPINION

“Tax the rich!” shout the progressives.

Why not?

America’s richest people are ridiculously rich.

“Five bucks to you is like $6 million to billionaire Jeff Bezos!” shrieks Sen. Elizabeth Warren.

Taking more from billionaires and millionaires just seems fair.

That’s why Washington state passed a new “millionaire’s tax,” California will soon vote on a “billionaire’s tax,” and my mayor in NYC shouts, “increase taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers!”

Don’t these politicians realize that in America, people can move?

Letters to the Editor Guest Column

The same day Washington’s House passed its millionaire’s tax, Starbucks billionaire Howard Schultz announced that he’s leaving Washington for Florida.

Billionaires Elon Musk, Larry Ellison, Steven Spielberg, Peter Thiel and now Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin have left California. For 170 years, California brought in more people than any other state. It’s clear why — the weather is awesome. There were growing opportunities and jobs.

But now regulation and taxes have changed that.

“Remarkably, for the first time since California came into the union, they’re having out migration!” says Forbes magazine’s Steve Forbes in my new video.

Some California activists think that’s OK.

“The benefit from this tax is going to outweigh ... a couple people moving out,” said a Healthcare Workers union boss.

But “it’s not just people,” warns Forbes. “It’s capital.”

Tesla, Chevron, Hewlett Packard, Oracle, SpaceX, Charles Schwab and other companies have left.

“When people are not well treated, they’re going to go elsewhere,” says Forbes.

Devastating loss

EDITOR:

Our hearts are broken. Mike Sirard, a Special Olympics athlete in El Dorado County, left all of us too early. Prayers for the entire Sirard family. There’s a hole in our hearts. God bless you.

RICHARD NIEMIEC

“Coach R” EDC Special Olympics

Don’t be a sheep

EDITOR:

ONext week is April 15, the horrible income tax day. Americans are reminded just how big that tax burden is.

I push back, citing California’s planned tax on the very rich: “It’s just 5%. You’re a rich guy, why not pay 5%?”

“You think it’s just taking 5% out of your checking account? No!” says Forbes.

America’s wealth doesn’t sit in a vault. It’s invested in things that create products and jobs.

Taxing that gives us less of both.

“This also allows government to become more intrusive,” explains Forbes, “’What’s that asset you might have in your cellar? We have to send inspectors in to find out where you’re hiding the art or the jewelry.’”

In NYC, my new socialist mayor, Zohran Mamdani, is eager to be intrusive. He says, “I don’t have a hesitation in asking those who make ... the most profits in the city to pay a little bit more.”

But it’s not just a “little bit” that he wants, and it’s not just from those with the “most” profits. Mamdani wants to change the estate tax so that if you possess more than $750,000, he gets a cut.

“Own a house? Mamdani’s after you,” says Forbes. “Instead of a 16% rate, which is outrageous, he wants to raise it to as high as 50%. You create something, he wants to take it.”

What’s most absurd is high taxes on the rich have

n See STOSSEL, page A5

Guest Column

n March 24, during the meeting of the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors, the public witnessed something deeply concerning: a two hour attempt to use Charter Section 602, a procurement and contracting provision, to justify decades of administrative expansions to Charter Section 504, a voter approved salary formula. Section 504 was adopted by the voters in 1972

and amended by the voters again in 1995. Under the California Constitution, only the voters may amend a county charter. That is not a matter of interpretation or preference — it is the law.

Over the past 20 years, Section 504 has been expanded to more than 20 job classifications without a single ballot measure. These expansions were done through MOUs, resolutions and administrative actions — none of which have the legal authority to amend a charter. The board’s recent attempt to use Section 602 to retroactively validate these actions is not supported by the Charter, the Constitution, or any known case law.

The decades of misuse of Section 504 has cost taxpayers millions of dollars needed for road repair, building water storage for the upcoming dry years possibly, helped to save our county history for the future. Paying for Section 504 is just not the short-term paycheck but goes into county liability in the years ahead to CalPERS for retirements packages.

Tax the rich? It’s time to leave the Social Security plantation

To repeat what Americans have heard a lot recently, our Social Security system is in very bad shape. Per the most recent report (2025) of the Social Security and Medicare Board of trustees, Social Security is capable of paying out the entirety of promised benefits through 2033. After that, there is only capability of paying out 77% of promised benefits. That’s seven years from now.

Anyone who got a letter from their investment fund or insurance program that said “We’re sorry but in another seven years we won’t be able to pay out what was promised” would immediately be on the phone to their lawyer. Why does this very bad news about

Social Security not seem to trouble Americans?

One reason is that we have no control. It’s not yours despite the fact that you paid for it. You would immediately be on the phone to your agent or your lawyer if your insurance company declared bankruptcy because it’s yours. You own it.

Have you ever called Social Security or the IRS to ask a question? You will sit on the phone for hours and in the end, most likely you won’t connect. Try it and you will understand what hopeless means.

On Aug. 14, 2010, President Barack Obama addressed the nation to note the 75th anniversary of the signing of Social Security into law. It was already clear then that the system was shaky. But President

Obama assured the nation he will “safeguard” Social Security’s “promise to America’s seniors.”

He assured Americans he would never allow a reform enabling Americans to take ownership of their funds, “tying your benefits to the whims of Wall Street traders and the ups and downs of the stock market.”

When Obama made that statement in 2010, the S&P 500 stock index stood at 1079. Today, it stands at 6506.

The average return of the S&P 500 from 1957 through December 2025 was 11.5% per year.

From November 2007 to January 2009, the stock market, measured by the S&P, dropped over 46%. This was the biggest decline since the 1929

crash.

Two Cato Institute analysts checked what would have happened to a couple who invested what they would have paid in Social Security taxes over a 45-year working life and then retired right after the huge market decline in 2009.

The answer was that even after the crash, they would have earned an average of 6.75% per year and would have had a sufficient accumulation to payout 75% more than they would have gotten from Social Security. Needless to say, if they had retired before the crash, they would have had much more. But even so, the magic of compound interest over 40-plus years

1:30 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Faith Lane in Diamond Springs.

2:39 p.m. Battery was reported on Loma Drive in Shingle Springs.

3:49 p.m. Trespassing was reported on French Knoll in Shingle Springs.

5:50 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Robert Road in Pollock Pines.

5:51 p.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines.

9:39 p.m. Battery was reported on Greenwood Road in Garden Valley.

March 4

11:49 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Sly Park Road in Pollock Pines.

4:10 p.m. Battery was reported on Investment Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

March 5

12:47 a.m. Battery was reported at the county jail on Forni Road in Placerville.

2:03 a.m. Burglary to a vehicle was reported on Marches Way in El Dorado Hills.

8:23 a.m.

1:24

3:25

10:50 p.m.

well overcomes a short-term disaster.

Stock returns reflect the earnings of corporations, and the earnings of corporations reflect the growth of the U.S. economy.

Let’s use some simple logic here. Anyone who is negative about the long-term returns on stocks is negative about the long-term growth of the U.S. economy. And anyone that’s negative about the longterm growth of the U.S. economy should understand that there will be few economic resources for the government to tax.

What we keep hearing from politicians is about “saving Social Security.” I’m not interested in saving systems. I am interested in saving

Letters Continued from A4

We need to count every dollar spent, not just approve unsupported billion-dollar budgets like the last two years while living o the generosity of grants, federal and state, which could be gone over night.

Equally troubling is the role of county counsel. He is currently litigating to block a voter initiative that would possibly return Section 504 to its original voter approved form. Despite this active litigation, he participated in the board’s discussion, advised the supervisors and defended the very actions now under scrutiny. When an attorney is both a litigant and an advisor, that is a conflict of interest. When that attorney is shaping the legal narrative for elected o cials while simultaneously opposing the public’s right to vote, the conflict becomes impossible to ignore.

The charter is the people’s

Stossel Continued from A4 already been tried. They failed.

Maryland expected to make money but instead lost $257 million.

“Nobody should be surprised,” said former Maryland Gov. Robert Ehrlich. “They’re out of here. These people aren’t stupid.”

Europe tried wealth taxes but gave them up because so many rich people left.

“You’re just a rich guy who wants to protect his stu ,” I say to Forbes.

“I may have done well in life. I got a good start in life. But what I want is a world in which ... all people have a chance to improve their lot in life.”

“How does raising your taxes impede this?” I ask.

“Because taxes are a price and burden,” says Forbes. “The tax you pay on your income is the price you pay for working ... for being successful. And when you have a high price on that, guess what happens? You get less of it.”

Next week is April 15, the horrible income tax day. Americans are reminded just how big that tax burden is.

Years ago, Forbes ran for president

March 6

8:35 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Old Depot Road in Placerville.

9:25 a.m. Burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Valley View Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

9:42 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Little Brush Ridge Road in Placerville.

10:31 a.m. Burglary was reported on Far A Way in Greenwood.

12:25 p.m. Battery was reported on Shawnee Court in Cameron Park.

12:57 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Stope Court in Placerville.

7:26 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a pharmacy on Green Valley Road in Cameron Park.

11:13 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Palermo Way in El Dorado Hills.

March 7

2:44 a.m. Battery was reported on Gravel Court in Placerville.

6:48 a.m. Burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Olson Lane in El Dorado Hills.

7:40 a.m. Trespassing was reported at a restaurant on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

9:37 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Crystal Boulevard in El Dorado.

10:35 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Ditch Camp Road in Georgetown.

1:35 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Weber Creek Road in Diamond Springs.

3:07 p.m. Trespassing was reported on State Highway 49 in Placerville.

8:07 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Irish Acres Road in Somerset.

people.

The only way the existing Social Security system can be “saved” is by taking a bad deal and making it worse. Raising taxes or cutting benefits. Or, for sure what we can expect from the progressives is to turn the system into another welfare program by disproportionately raising taxes on higher income earners.

The country is ready for a major overall that will free Americans from the government plantation and allow them to reap the benefits of freedom and ownership.

Star Parker is founder of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education. Her recent book, “What Is the CURE for America?” is available now.

document. It is our local constitution. It cannot be amended by administrative convenience or legal creativity. If the county believes Section 504 needs modernization, the path is simple and lawful: place a charter amendment on the ballot and let the voters decide.

Residents deserve transparency, independent legal counsel and a full accounting of how Section 504 was expanded without voter approval. Public trust depends on it. Stand up and voice your concerns to the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors or your district supervisor. Subscribe to the El Dorado County Weekly Bulletin and have it delivered to your computer. They want all of us to follow around blindly or live in the dark.

BRIAN

DeBERRY Diamond Springs

pushing a “flat tax.”

The idea went nowhere. I thought it would appeal to people because the current tax code is so complex.

“The code today has over 10 million words,” says Forbes. “Nobody really knows what’s in it. It’s immoral. ... We spend now over $500 billion a year in cash and time with this corrupt, incomprehensible tax code. Imagine if we’d taken those trillions of dollars, tens of billions of hours and used it for something productive, like making new products, new services, medical devices, cures for diseases. (We’d be) much better o . Huge opportunity wasted.”

Politicians destroy opportunity all the time.

America does need some taxes to fund limited government that the Founders had in mind.

Sadly, our politicians today go way beyond that.

Every Tuesday at JohnStossel. com, Stossel posts a new video about the battle between government and freedom. He is the author of “Government Gone Wild: Exposing the Truth Behind the Headlines.”

Racers hit the gas in quest for speedway’s Big Trophy

Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

Action returns to the El Dorado County Fairgrounds bullring of Placerville Speedway under the management of Russell Motorsports Inc. this Saturday during Coors Light Big Trophy Night. The evening of family fun marks point race number three in the Berco Building Materials/ Hoosier Tires championship season. All four of the track regulars will be in competition this weekend. Main event winners on Saturday go home with the perpetual 6-foot tall trophies as is tradition on Coors Light Big Trophy Night.

Auburn’s Andy Forsberg claimed his 77th career Placerville triumph during the most recent championship point race on March 28. He leads the Thompson’s Winged 360 standings after two events and will be gunning to add another win on Big Trophy Night.

Seth Standley, Carson Hammes, Jake Morgan and Justyn Cox make up the top five in the early season points. Hammes brough home a strong runner-up result two weeks back.

The Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models make their second appearance of the season on Saturday. Defending track champion Rod Oliver earned the win on opening night over Paul Gugliomoni and Chris McGinnis.

The Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks are amped up for point race number three this weekend. Oakley’s Nick Baldwin raced to his 40th career Placerville Speedway win at the most recent show.

The Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks featured an outstanding finish in their main event last time out. Young Noah LaPoint was able to slice to the inside of Howard Miller and edge him out at the line for the exciting win.

Tickets and details

Grandstand seating during Coors Light Big Trophy Night will be general admission on Saturday, April 11, except for the reserved seats allocated to season ticket holders that are marked. Adult tickets cost $18, while seniors 62-plus, military and juniors 12-17 will be $16. Kids 6-11 cost $8 and those 5 and younger get in free. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online at eventsprout. n See BIG TROPHY, page A7

flattering, unexpected.”

The Pacific Association is an extension of the United States Track and Field Federation. Harms has competed and been involved in the association’s coaching education program for more than 50 years.

“It’s a pretty massive organization,” Harms said. “You sort of find out where you can make an impact.”

In addition to guiding many Cougar teams to SVC and section titles, he has also sent almost a dozen of them competing at the California Interscholastic Federation cross-country and track and field championships for a quarter of a century.

“We’ve had a series of just really good athletes ... seems like every year,” Harms said. “There (are) people who have qualified for the state championships — boys and girls, all different events.”

Harms, however, won’t take all the credit for the success of Cougar athletes in both sports, no matter how far they went during the regular season and post-season.

“Credit all of the assistant coaches

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Continued from A6

com/event/psr-041126.

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.

COMICS

I’ve had over the years,” Harms said.

“We’ve got good athletes in this area.”

Harms was named the 2018 California Coach of the Year for both boys and girls’ cross country by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

Harms has served as the Olympic distance coach in Nigeria in preparation for the 1976 Olympic Games. He also led a California team, twice, to the National Ekiden Championship and served as cross country coach for the U.S. Men’s National Team. He’s a member of the Sacramento Running Association’s Hall of Fame, Class of 2018.

Harms was a three-sport athlete in football, basketball and baseball at Swett High School in Crockett. He switched to track and field in his senior year.

After he graduated from Swett, Harms competed at Diablo Valley College. Then he competed in cross-country and track and field at University of California, Davis. He is a member of the UC Davis Hall of Fame and the Sacramento Running Association Hall of Fame.

UPCOMING EVENTS

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ll be offered an opportunity. The real gift is that you’re a person people feel compelled to offer things to. The actual offerings may not a match, but your graciousness from this position will keep bringing in more options.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Friendships feel especially lively. It’s partly luck and partly the simple truth that you treat connection as a treasure. When you make time for people, they bring their best selves along. Shared laughter becomes the most reliable currency.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The best moment to give people the whole story is when they are dying to know. The worst moment to share the whole story is when they didn’t ask and aren’t curious. Create the appetite first, then feed it.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). A real friendship should add energy to your life, not drain it. If you consistently don’t feel lifted, the passage suggests the relationship might not actually function as a friendship. It could be habit, proximity, obligation or a one-sided dynamic.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Good friendships feel supportive. If one doesn’t, broaden your social circle. When you experience different kinds of company, you start to notice how each relationship actually feels. The comparison will help you see what kind of company you truly want.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Relationships are always working on multiple levels. Sometimes a deep understanding can be achieved through things shared right on the surface. Today’s breezy exchanges and lighter agreements build trust and establish a way of being together.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You’re good with money for the same reason you’re good with people. You notice what’s needed, what’s fair, what makes the

SCORPIO (Oct.

the kitchen,” Avila said. “In order to live independently, these are skills they need to know.”

Participants now practice knife safety, stove use, sanitation and time management. One of the most important lessons is also one of the simplest.

“Probably to clean up your mess,” said participant Stephanie P. Avila said habit reflects expectations in any professional kitchen.

From nachos to family recipes

While safety and structure are central to the program, creativity is equally emphasized.

Participants submit recipes on standardized cards and bring them to the kitchen to prepare. Dishes have ranged from loaded nachos and fried peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to baked ziti and chicken Alfredo.

a grant that we received in August,” Garcia said. Grant provisions also allow participants who are not yet ready for outside employment to continue contributing as in-house mentors.

Confidence beyond the kitchen

For many participants, the program represents a step toward greater independence.

“I’m working toward moving out on my own,” Michele M. said, adding the program is helping her build confidence for both independent living and future employment.

Stephanie P. said she has already moved out and sees her kitchen experience as part of building her future.

Avila said she is confident many participants will succeed in community jobs and their goals of independence.

Stephanie P. described building nachos by layering chips with ground beef, cheese and toppings such as guacamole, salsa and beans.

really good,” she said.

Participant Michele M. shared a recipe that quickly became a favorite.

“I did a baked ziti pasta recipe. It was

Avila describes Michele as a mentor in the kitchen, noting her experience in the setting predates the formal program.

Other participants bring long-held family recipes. Kristina K. shared a dish she memorized as a child.

Originally made with boxed mixes, the recipe was adapted with Avila’s help to reduce sodium and incorporate a homemade flare.

“When Heather told me how to do it, I learned how to make Spanish rice,” Kristina K. said. “Once you get the meat all mixed up and then you make the Spanish rice, you add that to the meat, and

then you throw in diced tomatoes, corn, green beans and olives, and it comes out really good.”

She said she often uses leftovers to make burritos at home.

Safety, structure and accountability

The kitchen operates much like a workplace. Participants use cutresistant gloves, follow strict safety rules and adapt to equipment such as gas stoves, which can be unfamiliar to some.

Attendance and accountability are emphasized. Participants must request time off in advance using written forms, mirroring realworld job expectations.

“We do have pretty strict rules to work in the kitchen,” Avila said. “Attendance is a big thing. It’s all like how a normal job would treat them out in the community. I hold them accountable for

everything.”

Each session ends with a journal entry documenting what participants learned and where they still feel uncertain. Early entries often reflected fear of knives or gas burners, but over time, those concerns have given way to confidence.

A temporary class with lasting impact

The current Culinary Arts Program cohort is expected to “graduate” in June, with another class planned later this year. Graduates are encouraged to return as mentors, helping new participants navigate tasks they once found challenging.

MORE Director of Fund Development Jamie Pitts Garcia is working to secure additional funding to sustain and expand the program.

“Our program is partially funded by the Women’s Fund through

“They’ve all come a long way,” she shared.

MORE CEO Kelli Nuttall said the program’s impact extends beyond technical training.

“We’re incredibly thankful to the Women’s Fund of El Dorado for making our culinary training program possible,” Nuttall said. “Our trainees are gaining real-world experience in a commercial kitchen every day and they are ready to work.”

She encouraged local restaurateurs looking for dedicated, confident employees to connect with the organization.

“What has impressed me most is the growth we’ve seen — not just in technical skills, but in confidence,” Nuttall said. “Our trainees are showing up each day with pride in their work, growing more independent and beginning to see themselves as part of the workforce.”

Mandates

level consistently ask for more from taxpayers and ask counties to cover more costs.

“We’ve been paying our fair share for decades. They’re spending it wrong,” Ferrero said. “They have a $350 billion budget. Realign the money. Let’s stop spending the money on things like ... the bullet train, and hold people accountable for fraud. There’s money. They’re just not spending it correctly.”

“How confident are you that our budget request is going to be met?” Parlin asked.

Holding an imaginary crystal ball, Knaus replied, “What I can say is the education day around HR 1

Taxes Continued from A3

Protect

yourself from scams

Scammers may pose as IRS or FTB employees to deceive taxpayers into sending money or sharing personal information. Common scams include texts, emails, calls, fake websites, and fraudulent mail.

To protect yourself:

• Do not reply to or click links in suspicious messages.

• If you are unsure, contact FTB directly to verify the request.

• For suspicious letters, call FTB at (800) 8525711. For more information visit the notices and letters and text messaging.

Online resources

Taxpayers are encouraged to use 24/7 online selfservice options to avoid delays when contacting FTB. Self-service options include checking your refund status, making secure online payments, determining filing requirements, selecting the correct form and viewing processing and wait times.

For Rent

was very impactful. So the initial responses there were very positive, which means there is growing awareness, not sufficient yet, but there’s growing awareness in the Legislature of what the problem is.

“I believe there should be an expectation of dollars coming out of the state budget connected to this,” he continued. “What that looks like, I don’t know.”

In addition to sending the letters, supervisors committed to reaching out to local representatives in the state Legislature. The motion passed 4-0 with support from Supervisors George Turnboo, Parlin, Ferrero and Veerkamp. District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine was absent.

Tax relief for disasters

Taxpayers may deduct certain losses incurred due to a president or governor declared disaster in California. Free copies of tax returns are available to disaster victims whose returns were lost or damaged. To receive these free copies, use Form FTB 3516 and write the name of the disaster in blue or black ink at the top of the request.

Help with tax payments and penalties

Taxpayers who can’t pay their full tax bill should still file on time to reduce penalties and interest. Payment plans are generally available for those who owe $25,000 or less and can repay within five years. Individual taxpayers may also be eligible for a one-time cancellation of a penalty for filing or paying late. To qualify, taxpayers must be current on all required tax filings, have no unpaid tax balances (other than the penalty they want removed) and not have used this relief before. Visit FTB’s onetime penalty abatement page or call (800) 689-4776 for more information.

Apartment For Rent

disturbing. Staples repeatedly exploited positions of trust to commit prolonged abuse against multiple victims, including very young children. Even after two decades in custody, he has failed to demonstrate meaningful insight or rehabilitation, yet was still entitled to a hearing, just because of his age. No evidence was presented at the hearing that Staples suffers from any health issues or concerns. While the denial of parole is the appropriate outcome, the fact that this hearing occurred at all underscores a broader concern. Policies designed to address prison overcrowding have expanded over time, creating a pathway for individuals convicted of serious and violent crimes to seek early release, often forcing victims to relive their trauma through repeated parole hearings.

The El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office will continue to review and oppose elder parole for inmates who pose a threat to public safety and strongly advocate for reform of elder parole laws.

plan for treatments for another 225,000 acres. Landmark Environmental worked with UMRWA on Phase 1 of this project.

Social Hour begins at 6 p.m., dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the presentation will start at 7:15 p.m. To reserve a space for dinner contact Diane Dealey Neill at dianedealeyneill@gmail. com or (530) 417-1960 by Monday, April 13, at 5 p.m. A taco bar with two meats plus rice and beans will be served for a cost of $20 per person. Beer, wine and soft drinks will be available for purchase. Raffle tickets to support the forest forum may be purchased at the door.

The Amador-El Dorado Forest Forum is a group of forestry professionals, forest educators and others interested in forestry practices and issues in the two-county area. For details visit forestforum.org.

PROSPECTING

Section B n mtdemocrat.com

IN THE KNOW

April 10

1850 Wine Cellars will host Name That Tune with Emily at 5:15 p.m. For more information visit 1850winecellars.com.

Ryder Thieves + The Beloveds will perform, 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Dustin Saylor Band will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

April 11

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County will host its annual Plant Sale — Edibles from 8 a.m. to noon at the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville. For more information visit ucanr.edu/site/uc-mastergardeners-el-dorado-county.

The El Dorado County Mineral and Gem Society will host the Rock & Gem Show at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit edcmgs.org.

The city of Placerville will host its Spring Fishing Derby at 11 a.m. at Lumsden Park, 3144 Wiltse Road. For more information visit cityofplacerville.org.

Arts and Culture El Dorado will host an Opening Reception for Pictures and Pages: Illustrators of El Dorado County, at Switchboard Gallery from 5-7 p.m. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.

org.

Suburban Skies + Phil Starr will perform, 6-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Imagination Theatre at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents Trivia Night at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.

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

Gwinllan Estate Vineyard and Winery in Fairplay will host its Anniversary Celebration to commemorate 13 remarkable years. For more information visit gwinllanestate.com.

The Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park will host Intro to Improv for Real Life with Luminous Linda from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.

1850 Wine Cellars will host its Menu Change Out Party from 6-8 p.m. For more information visit 1850winecellars.com.

Cripple Creek Band will perform at 7 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheater.com.

April 12

Sew4Vets will host its Quilt Sale at the Veterans Memorial Building in Placerville during the Veterans Breakfast from 8-11 a.m. Proceeds from the quilt sale will support the work of Sew4Vets.org.

Laugh with a purpose

Andrew vonderschmitt Features editor

Mother Lode Rehabilitation’s Stand Up for MORE Comedy Night will bring together nationally recognized talent, rising local voices and a community eager to give back on Friday, April 24, from 5-9 p.m. at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds.

The fundraiser offers more than a night out, it is an opportunity to unwind after the workweek, share a meal and support the programs at MORE that help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive locally.

“I am especially thankful to the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce and Leadership El Dorado Class 9 for championing this event 10 years ago,”

CEO Kelli Nuttall said. “Their vision created something that continues to bring our community together in a meaningful way.”

At the center of the evening are two comedians whose paths to the stage reflect different journeys shaped by persistence, risk and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

Cash Levy

Levy said his career began as a creative escape from structure.

A theater major at Colorado College, he found himself drawn more to improvisation than scripted performance.

“I like to improvise a lot,” he said. “People were frustrated when I’d go outside the script, so I decided to just do it on my own.”

That decision launched a career that has taken him from Los Angeles comedy clubs to performances for U.S. troops overseas.

“It’s really all I’ve ever done for a career,” he said. “It’s taken me all over the world … It’s been a fun ride.”

Levy admitted the path was far from easy, particularly in the early years of performing for unfamiliar audiences.

“You can make your friends laugh, but it’s hard to make strangers in another state laugh — or another country,” he said. “There’s a learning curve.”

That experience helped shape the improvisational style he is known for today. While he has a deep catalog of material, Levy often lets the audience guide the show.

“I can let the improvisation lead me into whatever material,” he said. “It keeps it fresh. You never really know what’s going to happen.”

Marcus Mangham

Mangham took a different route into comedy, driven by curiosity and a personal challenge. Originally from Salisbury, North Carolina, he spent months debating whether to try stand-up before committing to a simple goal.

“I said I’m going to give myself three months to come up

with three minutes,” Mangham said. “I was going to do it one time to get it out of my system — and nine years later, I’m still doing it.”

Like many comedians, Mangham said early expectations didn’t always match reality.

“You could think it’s spectacular, then you get on stage and realize you don’t have three minutes anymore,” he said. “You have one minute.”

He quickly immersed himself in the open mic circuit, building experience wherever he could find stage time — and creating opportunities when they didn’t exist.

“If you really want stage time, produce your own shows,” he said. “Then you can do as much time as you want — and make money while you’re doing it.”

Now based in the Sacramento region, Mangham produces multiple shows, runs a weekly open mic and performs across Northern California. He said the path has included risks, including leaving a steady job at exactly the wrong time.

“I said, ‘I’m out of here,’ and two months later the world shut

down,” he said. “Terrible timing — but I figured it out.”

While Levy leans into improvisation and crowd work, Mangham’s style centers on relatable storytelling drawn from everyday life, including marriage, culture and personal experience.

Both, however, share an appreciation for the unpredictability of live comedy.

Mangham still remembers the moment it clicked.

“The bug bit me that day,” he said.

Your host

Producer and master of ceremonies Scott Edwards returns to lead the evening. Known for founding Sacramento comedy club Laughs Unlimited and now hosting the podcast “Standup Comedy ‘Your Host and MC,’” Edwards is expected to add his own comedic interjections between acts.

There’s MORE

The event will also feature dinner catered by local favorite restaurateur John Sanders, along with

raffles and the return of the popular “Lucky Liquor Wall.” For Nuttall, the evening’s success lies in the community that continues to support it.

“We are incredibly grateful to our community for continuing to show up, year after year, to support this event,” she said. “Your presence truly makes a difference in the lives of the individuals we serve.” She said the combination of entertainment and impact is what makes the event stand out.

“There’s something really special about seeing people come together, share laughter, and enjoy the night, knowing it’s all helping create real opportunities for the individuals we serve,” Nuttall said.

For attendees the night offers a chance to relax, connect and contribute to programs that support independence and opportunity for local residents.

And for one evening in Placerville, that blend of humor and heart may be the biggest draw of all. For more information visit morerehab.org.

Found Poem Project brings surprise poetry to county libraries

his April, in celebration of

Poetry Month, Arts and Culture El Dorado is partnering with El Dorado County Library to launch the Found Poem Project.

Designed to delight library visitors with a splash of poetry, the Found Poem Project will pop up for two weeks in all six county library branches — El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park, Placerville, Georgetown, Pollock Pines and South Lake Tahoe.

“In essence, the Found Poem Project is a twist on the traditional treasure hunt,” said Terry LeMoncheck, executive director of Arts and Culture El Dorado. “And there is a special prize for some lucky library patrons.”

From April 16 through April 30, a range of contemporary and classic poems will be hidden throughout each library, waiting to be discovered, enjoyed and shared by visitors.

A select few of each library’s found poems will come with a bonus prize: a free book of poetry authored by a Northern California poet. In all, 17 poets — including prize winners and poets laureate — have donated chapbooks and full-length collections in support of the project.

The Found Poem Project was conceived by Moira Magneson, current El Dorado County poet laureate.

“I’m hoping that folks who find poems in their local library this April will experience a little starburst of joy, kind of like happening upon a dime on the sidewalk. It makes your day,” Magneson said.

The Found Poem Project is a joint effort between

Arts and Culture El Dorado and El Dorado County Library. El Dorado County Library provides free and easy access to ideas, books and technology. Since its founding in 1947, the library system has supported the freedom to read. More information about library services is available at eldoradolibrary.org. Arts and Culture El Dorado serves as a catalyst for arts and culture in the region, acting as the statelocal partner to the California Arts Council and providing targeted programs and services. Founded in 1984 as El Dorado Arts Council, the organization curates gallery exhibitions and supports initiatives that sustain the region’s cultural life. Its programs serve veterans, students, families, artists, arts organizations, residents and visitors. Learn more at artsandcultureeldorado.org.

Private screenings of ‘Hangtown’ set for April 12

News release

Aspecial private screening of “Hangtown,” a short film written and directed by David Aguilar, will take place Sunday, April 12, at Art on Center — Center for Native, Latino and Indigenous Arts at 3182 Center St. in Placerville.

Screenings are scheduled for 1 p.m. (student-focused) and 3 p.m. (general audience), with each showing followed by a conversation with Aguilar. The 22-minute film is not rated and contains some mature language and themes, but is appropriate for middle school-age students. Admission is free, but space is limited.

Set in 1980s Placerville, “Hangtown” follows a 12-year-old boy whose life takes an unexpected turn when he forms a bond with a Mexican immigrant on the run. The film explores themes of immigration, identity and resilience, drawing inspiration

from Aguilar’s own experiences growing up in Placerville. The film was shot locally and reflects both the beauty and tension of the region during his childhood.

These screenings offer audiences a rare opportunity to engage directly with Aguilar and discuss both the social impact of the film and how his upbringing in Placerville has shaped his artistic voice.

“Hangtown” won two awards at its world premiere at the Sacramento International Film Festival in December:

Visionary Spirit and Outstanding Cine Latino Long Form. The film also is nominated for seven awards at the upcoming SacTown Film Festival on April 11, including best diversity film, best writer and best director. It will be presented in IMAX at the Esquire IMAX Theatre in Sacramento.

Aguilar is a filmmaker and television writer whose work blends character-driven storytelling with themes of identity, cultural resilience and underdog heroism. He has written for the CBS series “Matlock” and

“S.W.A.T.,” bringing authenticity, emotional truth and a grounded perspective to network television.

Raised in Placerville, Aguilar said his childhood in the small town — marked by both adventure and unspoken tension — continues to shape his artistic voice. His mission is to create fresh stories centered on Chicano characters who challenge inherited cultural narratives. “Hangtown” is his directorial debut. For tickets and more information email artoncenteredc@gmail. com

Seeking actors for ‘Save the Graves’

Save the Graves News release

Actors, storytellers and public speakers are invited to participate in the seventh annual “Save the Graves” theatrical history event at Placerville Union Cemetery.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and this year’s theme is “Everyday Heroes–Breaking the Mold.” The performances highlight local figures who overcame obstacles to make a difference in the community without seeking fame or fortune.

Past productions have featured prominent but little-known figures from El Dorado County history. The annual event draws audiences of 400 to 500 people.

Casting the following characters:

• Reverend Charles Caleb Peirce, “the Peoples’ Pastor,” a parish priest who traveled by foot to minister to rural communities.

• Dr. Jean Babcock, a pioneering female physician who struggled for acceptance in a male-dominated field and welcomed all patients.

• Frank Andre, “the Goat Doctor,” known for his quiet demeanor and “magic touch,” trusted by the community for more than 30 years.

• Anna Andre, a psychic and spirited mother, mentor to her son Frank.

• Lucy Stoddard, “the Pie Lady of Placerville,” a self-made businesswoman who turned hardship into financial independence.

• Dorothea Zeisz, an abandoned mother of 10 who overcame personal tragedy to become a beloved boarding house proprietress.

• Charlotte “Charlie” Parkhurst, a stagecoach driver who navigated the challenges of living a double life during the California Gold Rush. Rehearsals will be scheduled individually based on skill level, with actors expected to be available for final run-throughs in the 10 days before the performance. Each actor will perform four to five times during the day on a rotating schedule across two stages. Auditions are by appointment. Interested performers can contact Kathleen Young, artistic director, at stgartists@savethegraveseldorado.org for more information.

Barbara Chronowski News release

FOLSOM — Falcon’s Eye theatre will open “Godspell” April 17 at Harris Center for the Arts, kicking off its 20th season. For many of the students at Folsom Lake Collage the show and program offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to work on a world class stage in the foothill community of Folsom.

There is something happening almost every night at the Harris Center for the Arts, widely considered the cultural heartbeat of the city. The venue hosts a diverse range of performances, including Broadway tours, symphony orchestras, ballet, comedy and live concerts. Most are traveling productions that move between cities for limited engagements.

One exception is Falcon’s Eye Theatre, a permanent fixture of the Harris Center and the production arm of the department of Theater and Cinema at Folsom Lake College.

As a homegrown program, every element of each production is created on-site, from early development in the drama lab to final execution in the lighting booth, dance studio, scenery shop, costume department and classroom.

The hands-on approach gives aspiring actors and crew members firsthand experience in mounting a full production in Folsom. The process mirrors professional theater, with time constraints, rigorous rehearsal schedules and adherence to industry standards. Auditions are competitive and open to the community, and weekly production meetings guide each aspect of a show, from scenery and props to lighting, sound, choreography and stage management.

Nothing is left to chance.

The program is led by faculty with extensive professional backgrounds.

Department chair Ian Wallace and founder David Harris are graduates of the MFA program at University of California, San Diego and have worked at the renowned La Jolla Playhouse.

Harris said he aims to challenge students artistically.

“If students have the opportunity to perform in at least a couple of classic genres outside of the 21st century, then I feel satisfied we have elevated them,” he said. Jennifer Provenza Wallace is directing the upcoming “Godspell” and brings experience in

both film and stage.

“We’re able to teach the students all the acting and design techniques they would learn in a Bachelor of Fine Arts program, but at a fraction of the cost,” she said. “Additionally, the students have access to facilities I could only have dreamed of when I was a student at NYU.”

Students also have the opportunity to perform in the same venues that host Broadway tours, a rare experience even among BFA and MFA programs, she said.

Folsom has been named by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best places to live in California. Wallace said the recognition helps expand both storytelling and audiences.

“For us it’s really exciting because theater is at its best when it represents the diversity and energy of the community it serves,” he said.

Wallace encouraged audiences to step away from screens and experience live theater.

“There is nothing like the hush that goes over a crowd when the curtain opens, nothing like the shared laughter and tears at pivotal moments of connection, and nothing like the applause of a community of people who have just viewed something that changed them in some vital way,” she said.

“Godspell” will run through April 26. The musical celebrates community, compassion and hope, drawing inspiration from the Gospel according to Matthew. It follows an ensemble of performers who join Jesus in bringing parables to life through storytelling, humor and music. The score blends pop, folkrock and vaudeville influences.

Learn more at falconseyetheatre.com. Tickets are available at harriscenter.net.

ACROSS

1 Constellation word before Major or Minor

5 Something to blow off or

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The beauty of chamber music

presented by InConcert Sierra

Sydney Joyce InConcert Sierra

— InConcert Sierra will present “Quintet Revelations,” a performance featuring an ensemble of internationally acclaimed artists from the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center.

The concert is part of InConcert Sierra’s collaboration with the society’s national residency program. InConcert Sierra is one of 12 organizations in the United States selected for the program and the only residency on the West Coast.

The program highlights the piano quintet, a form that blends the intimacy of chamber music with the scale of symphonic sound by combining piano and string quartet. The repertoire will feature two major quintets alongside works for two violins, spanning 18th- and 19th-century compositions by Anton Arensky, Camille SaintSaëns, Jean-Marie Leclair and Giovanni Battista Viotti.

Featured performers include pianist Wu Han, co-artistic director of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and Music@ Menlo; violinists Chad Hoopes and Richard Lin; violist Milena Pájaro-Van de Stadt; and cellist Dmitri

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Atapine.

“Chamber music of this caliber creates an immediate sense of connection, not only between the artists and the music, but also with the audience,” said InConcert Sierra Artistic Director Ken Hardin.

“It is a conversation between the musicians that is shared with the listeners, making live performance an experience beyond words. It’s transcendent.”

The performance is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, April 19, at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, with a preconcert talk at 1:15 p.m.

Founded in 1946, InConcert Sierra presents classical music performances, educational programs and community outreach throughout the Sierra Nevada. The organization is also developing Crown Point Venues, a project that will include a concert hall, conference center and black box theater. More information is available at inconcertsierra.org.

tribute to Davey ‘Doc’ Wiser

George Sabato

Sierra Community Access Television

Sierra Community Access Television, El Dorado County’s community-driven public access station, has released a new tribute video honoring one of Placerville’s most iconic figures.

“Davey ‘Doc’ Wiser, Your Spirit Still Rides: A Tribute to a Legendary Figure of Placerville” is now airing on SCATV2 Comcast Channel 2 and is available on demand via the SCATV2 YouTube channel. The feature serves as a memorial to a man who spent nearly five decades bringing Gold Rush history to life in El Dorado County.

The featured song includes lyrics written by George Sabato that celebrate Wiser’s life as a devoted El Dorado County resident, including nearly 50 years riding his carriage in the Highway 50 Wagon Train. A dedicated Pony Express re-rider, Wiser was a familiar presence across the county and was especially known

for offering free stagecoach rides to families along Main Street in Placerville.

The tribute includes a collection of photographs by Sabato and other local photographers, including members of the Mountain Democrat staff. Many of the images were enhanced using artificial intelligence through Gemini to help restore historical detail. The film concludes with a final sequence depicting Wiser’s symbolic ride through the High Sierra, created using AI-generated imagery based on historical photos.

The video was produced by Sabato, president and CEO of SCATV2 and a nationally recognized educator and historian. Sabato is the program author of Savvas Learning Co.’s myWorld Interactive World History and myWorld Interactive Geography, curricula adopted by the California State Board of Education, and a former president of the California Council for Social Studies.

More information about SCATV2 is available at sierratv2.blogspot.com.

Storytime returns with ‘Robin Hood’

SACRAMENTO — Storytime Theatre at Sacramento City College will present “Robin Hood,” opening Saturday, April 11, and running through Sunday, May 3.

Performances will be held Saturdays and Sundays at noon through May 3 in the Little Theatre, Room 106, of the Performing Arts Center on the Sacramento City College campus, 3835 Freeport Boulevard. The production is recommended for children 5 and older.

The play follows Robin Hood and her Merry Men as they battle the evil Sheriff and his Pie-eaters, who have stolen all the pies and pie-making tools from the people of Snottingham. Audiences can cheer as the heroes win back the pies and save the day.

“‘Robin Hood’ is a fun, engaging story that children and adults alike can enjoy,” said Luther Hanson,

co-director of the production with Lynn Baker-Nauman.

The artistic team also includes Oliver Chu, musical director and pianist; Nicole Sivell, costume designer; and Wiley, scenic and lighting designer. The cast features Myah Doty, Augustine Bothe, Geneva Bell, Jude Lancaster, Joshua Nowell, Diego Garmatz, Shaye Hesling, Lorenzo Campos, and Marcellus McCladdie.

City Theatre is the performing arts program at Sacramento City College and part of the Los Rios Community College District. Its season includes four Mainstage productions, two Storytime children’s productions, and the elementary school touring troupe, the Pennywhistle Players, which is currently on hiatus. In the summer, the program produces the Sacramento Shakespeare Festival.

For tickets and more information visit citytheatre.net.

Stay up to date with news, columns, photos, videos, and more with a subscription to the Mountain Democrat website: mtdemocrat.com. Call (530) 622-1255.

D. Lee Reyes

Gold Country Artists Gallery

Three artists working in distinct mediums are featured in a new showcase at Gold Country Artists Gallery, highlighting ceramic, oil and fluid art — Anca Statescu, Lori Anderson and Dawn Johnson — whose distinct styles reflect personal journeys, creative exploration and a deep connection to the world around them.

Anca Statescu

As a child, Romanianborn artist Statescu found delight in the art books her father collected. The cave paintings, Impressionism, modern and folk art she found in their pages captivated her, and her work reflects those early influences. She later attended university, earning degrees and building careers in both civil engineering and art — fields she interconnects in her creations.

She has worked in multiple mediums, but several years ago discovered ceramics. She said she found a whole new world in the malleability of clay, the wide variety of glazes and an infinite way to express her artistic passion in threedimensional form.

Her great love for her medium shines through when she describes her process, which begins with a lump of clay rolled into slabs. “Then my imagination takes hold!” she said. “Sometimes the clay ‘tells’ me what it wants to be, and from there, unique pieces are born. But it is a long journey.”

The clay is shaped, allowed to dry and then put in the kiln for an initial firing. When cooled, she may embellish pieces with iron oxide — a form of liquid rust. Glazing follows, then a final firing. The process can take days, with firing lasting up to 11 hours and cooling more than a day.

“However,” she said, “the work, the wait, anticipation, and the joy make it all worthwhile. In the end, in that final glorious moment when I open my kiln, it feels like unwrapping Christmas presents all over again!” Statescu is inspired by patterns and colors found in nature. She creates texture by pressing sticks, twigs and leaves into clay before firing. Her plate, “Vine Leaves,” uses actual grape leaves to capture detailed lobes and veins, finished in muted reds, browns, greens and golds. In “Grandma’s Doily,” she impressed lace into clay, highlighting the structure with black and glazing it in green. She also incorporates whimsy, as seen in “Geese in the Rain,” featuring three geese under an umbrella, and draws on classic design in “Florentine Bowl,” glazed in white and cobalt.

In addition to creating visually engaging work, she produces functional pieces. “It is important for my customers to know all my glazes are dishwasher and foodsafe,” she said. Her “Calla Lily Vase,” glazed in a soft bluish green, features white blossoms

with bright yellow centers and evokes a sense of spring.

Statescu shares her work in shows and galleries locally and internationally and participates in several art organizations, including coordinating the gallery’s contribution to the annual KVIE art auction. Reflecting on the longevity of ceramics, she said, “When I read about thousand-year-old ceramics discovered in archeological digs, I cannot help but think that maybe this is ‘my claim to eternity!’”

Lori Anderson Anderson is deeply inspired by the beauty of the world around her and expresses that passion through a variety of mediums. She said painting has taught her not just to look at things, but to truly see them, giving her a way to share both what she observes and what she feels.

A trip to Italy left a lasting impression. The architecture of Venice and the landscapes of Tuscany inspired her to capture that sense of wonder. After returning, she sought out classes and workshops, studying with artists while exploring different techniques, subjects and mediums before settling on oil paints for their fluidity and blending qualities.

Her favorite subjects include animals, florals and landscapes. She has painted scenes from around the Folsom area, capturing places that are changing with development. In “Folsom Walk,” she portrays a serene path through rolling green hills, where tall grasses brush against the viewer and clouds suggest warmth just beyond the horizon.

She also paints animal portraits, often creating small narrative scenes. “Mother of the Meadow” depicts a white hen leading her chicks through grass, while “Crow With Sunflower” captures a black bird perched atop a tall bloom.

Many of her floral paintings are inspired by her own garden. In “Peony,” full pink blossoms arranged in a turquoise vase reflect the richness of spring.

Anderson advocates for artist involvement in the community through service in local arts organizations. Her work can be seen in galleries, private collections and local businesses.

Dawn Johnson

Johnson turned to art during the pandemic, using her time to explore creative expression through online learning. “It was just by chance while watching videos about palette knife painting that I came across fluid artistry and immediately fell in love with the painting technique,” she said. “I also discovered that this method of painting is a very relaxing experience.”

Online videos became her teacher, and she now creates fluid art using acrylics, alcohol ink and resin on canvas, tile and wood. Fluid art includes techniques such as the “Dutch pour.” Johnson prepares her canvas with a base color to carry additional layers, mixing paints with

water and a conditioner to control consistency. She pours paint onto the surface and uses gravity to create patterns, with denser fluids moving through lighter layers to form ribbons and cells of color.

Tilting, shaking and manipulating the canvas — along with tools, heat and resin — contribute to the abstract effects in her work.

While some describe the technique as “accidental painting,” Johnson said it requires knowledge and intention. Her process involves careful planning to achieve a desired outcome and can take weeks to complete, including drying time in a controlled environment. A final varnish or resin coating enhances color and durability.

Some works suggest recognizable imagery. In “Treasure Cay,” she incorporates sand, seashells and glitter to evoke waves along a shoreline. Others are more abstract, inviting interpretation. “Autumn Warmth” features layered oranges and golds reminiscent of a tapestry, while “Pretty in Purple” draws the viewer into flowing blues and purples.

Johnson said her work continues to evolve as she explores new techniques and materials.

The gallery features a wide range of artists working in jewelry, photography, fused glass, woodturning, pastels, colored pencil, scratchboard and painting. Learn more at goldcountry artistsgallery.com.

Seeking artists to enter California Duck Stamp Art Contest

California Department of Fish and Wildlife News release

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife invites artists to submit original artwork to the 2026-27 California Duck Stamp Art Contest. Submissions will be accepted May 11 through June 19. Since 1971, the department’s annual contest has attracted top wildlife artists from

around the country. All proceeds from stamp sales go directly to waterfowl conservation projects throughout California.

Artwork must depict the species selected by the California Fish and Game Commission, which is the greater white-fronted goose for the 2026-27 hunting season. White-fronted geese are brownishgray with barring on the belly and a white forehead, often referred to as “specklebellies.”

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

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB: Come play tennis for fitness, fun & friendship. Meet at El Dorado HS tennis courts on Acacia St., Placerville, Wednesdays 9-11 except June -August, hours 9-11. Social activities & monthly tennis clinics. Some tennis ability required. Call Trisha 530-651-8121.

Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA), for the CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on March 16, May 18, July 20, September 21, and November 16, 2026. The location is at the Denny’s Restaurant, 3446 Coach Lane in Cameron Park. 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

White-fronts breed in the Arctic tundra and migrate to two main wintering regions — the Central Valley of California and the midcontinent Gulf region. They are often found in large flocks with other geese on wetlands and agricultural fields. White-fronts leave roost areas before sunrise to feed in agricultural fields and can be seen, and heard, flying overhead at dawn.

The winning artwork will be reproduced on the 2026-27 California Duck Stamp. Top submissions are traditionally showcased at the Pacific Flyway Decoy Association’s art show, scheduled to take place in July.

The contest is open to U.S. residents 18 or older as of April 1. Entrants do not need to reside in California. Current and former department employees are ineligible. All entries must be accompanied by a completed participation agreement and entry form. These forms and official rules are available at wildlife. ca.gov/duck-stamp/ contest.

The design must be in full color and in the medium, or combination of mediums, of the artist’s choosing. Photographic processes, digital art, metallic paints and fluorescent paints may not be used in the finished design. Photographs, computergenerated art and work produced from a computer printer or other mechanical

output device, with the exception of the airbrush method, are not eligible and will be disqualified. The design must be the contestant’s original, hand-drawn creation and may not be copied or duplicated from previously published art, including photographs, or from images published online. Entries will be judged in June. A panel of judges with expertise in ornithology, conservation, art and printing will select first-, second- and third-place winners, as well as an honorable mention.

In past years, hunters were required to purchase and affix the stamp to their hunting license. California has

since moved to an automated licensing system, and hunters are no longer required to carry a physical stamp in the field, as proof of purchase prints directly on the license. The department still produces the stamp, which can be requested by interested individuals. More information and a link to the order form are available on the department’s collector stamps page. Persons with disabilities who need reasonable accommodation to participate in public meetings or other department activities may contact

the Accessibility Coordinator in the Civil Rights Office at (916) 902-5577 or email CivilRights@wildlife. ca.gov. Requests for facility or meeting accommodations should be received at least 21 days before the event. Requests for American Sign Language interpreters should be submitted at least two weeks in advance, and requests for real-time captioning at least four weeks in advance. These time frames help ensure accommodations can be provided. If an accommodation request is no longer needed, contact the Accessibility Coordinator as soon as possible.

Genre-blending show comes to Fiddletown

News release

IDDLETOWN

F— What is Dirty Cello? Audiences will have a chance to find out April 24 when the globe-trotting band performs at the Fiddletown Community Center.

Dirty Cello blends blues, rock and Americana, fronted by virtuoso cellist Rebecca Roudman. A classically trained symphony musician, Roudman left the traditional orchestra path years ago in favor of a more eclectic and energetic sound.

“We travel all over the place,” Roudman said. “Everywhere we go, the idea is to put on a highenergy show. We’re a rock band, but with a cello instead of a lead guitar.”

The band has performed internationally, with appearances ranging from Iceland and China to a nudist resort in

Santa Cruz, reflecting its wide-ranging appeal and unconventional spirit.

Publications have taken notice of the group’s distinctive style.

Oakland Magazine described Dirty Cello’s music as “all over the map: funky, carnival, romantic, sexy, tangled, electric, fiercely rhythmic, and textured,

and only occasionally classical.”

Roudman said that flexibility is part of the band’s identity.

“We’re all about the fun at our shows, and we step on stage with only a vague plan as to what specific songs we are going to play,” she said. “We react to what the audience wants to hear and adjust accordingly.”

Know Continued from B1

Proceeds from the Veterans breakfast will support the work at the Veterans Memorial Building. For questions contact Sew4Vets President Karen Wilson at (530) 306-2814.

Join the Miss El Dorado County Scholarship Pageant for its 2026 Orientation at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds at 11 a.m. Contact Jamie Pitts Garcia, pageant director at (530) 3061199 for more information. Shaky Feelin’ will perform, 2-4 p.m. and Word of Mouth Storytelling hosted by Amber “Lucky”

With a set list that can range from Jimi Hendrix to Charlie Daniels, along with original material, the band leans into improvisation and audience engagement. The April 24 performance is scheduled at the Fiddletown Community Center. Tickets are available online at DirtyCello.com.

April 14

April

Capital Stage announces bold, thought-provoking season

Capital Stage News release

SACRAMENTO — Capital Stage has announced its 2026-27 season, marking its 22nd year of producing cutting-edge, thought-provoking professional theater.

Artistic Director Michael Stevenson has curated a six-play lineup designed to inspire and entertain audiences throughout the season, which runs Sept. 23, 2026, through Aug. 8, 2027.

Season lineup

“Alex Edelman’s Just for Us”

Sept. 23 – Oct. 25, 2026

The season opens with “Alex Edelman’s Just for Us,” written and performed by Alex Edelman. The show, a New York Times Critic’s Pick and 2024 Special Tony Award winner, explores identity, religion and empathy through a deeply personal story.

After receiving an antisemitic tweet, Edelman attends a meeting of white nationalists in Queens, confronting hatred face-to-face in a story that blends humor and insight.

“My Mama & the Full-Scale Invasion”

Nov. 18 – Dec. 20, 2026

“My Mama & the Full-Scale Invasion,” by Sasha Denisova, follows a playwright imagining her mother’s life in Kyiv during the 2022 Russian

invasion of Ukraine.

Inspired by real WhatsApp conversations, the play blends humor and heartbreak as Denisova envisions her mother in surreal and defiant scenarios.

“Things That Are Round”

Jan. 20 – Feb. 21, 2027

Callie Kimball’s “Things That Are Round” centers on an unusual relationship between a dentist and an opera singer engaged in a surreal game of truth or dare.

The production combines absurdity with emotional depth, examining connection and competition.

“Andy Warhol in Iran”

March 17 – April 18, 2027

“Andy Warhol in Iran,” by Brent Askari, is a fictionalized account based on the artist’s 1976 visit to Tehran.

The play imagines Warhol encountering a young revolutionary, prompting reflection on art, identity and political change.

“The Bed Trick”

May 12 – June 13, 2027

Keiko Green’s “The Bed Trick” follows three college freshmen navigating relationships, identity and personal boundaries.

As personal conflicts unfold, themes of consent and manipulation emerge, influenced by a student production of “All’s Well That Ends Well.”

“Monsters of the American Cinema”

July 7 – Aug. 8, 2027

The season concludes with “Monsters of the American Cinema” by Christian St. Croix.

The play follows Remy Washington, who inherits a drive-in theater after his husband’s death and raises his late husband’s teenage son. Their shared love of classic monster films is tested by personal conflict and questions of identity.

Schedule changes announced

As part of an effort to improve financial sustainability and streamline operations, several scheduling changes will take effect this season.

Opening night performances will now be held on the first Friday of each production run. Current opening night subscribers will receive priority reseating for the new first-Friday schedule.

Friday preview subscribers will be given priority seating in other subscription plans at the preview plan price.

A new Saturday matinee has been added on the first Saturday of each run, while Saturday evening performances have been eliminated. Current Saturday evening subscribers will be offered priority reseating in another subscription plan.

The company will not produce a separate holiday show this year, choosing instead to focus on its mainstage season.

Learn more at capstage.org.