Mountain Democrat: Friday, August 21, 2026 by mcnaughtonmedia

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C ALI FORN IA’S OLDE ST NE W SPAPER

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– Weekend Edition – VOLUME 175 • ISSUE 67 | $1.00

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026

Courtesy photo

Gathering Inn resident Glenn stands in his new apartment. He told the Mountain Democrat he previously lived in his car and thought, “This is just how it’s going to be.”

Gathering Inn houses previously homeless seniors Lance Armstrong Staff writer

A recently opened, $1.5 million local housing project is providing permanent housing for 10 individuals, ages 55 and older, who had previously experienced homelessness in El Dorado County. Located across Highway 50 from downtown Placerville, this housing complex consists of four fully renovated homes on one property. The structures were previously used as rental housing through a private owner. The project was made possible through a partnership between Anthem Blue Cross and The Gathering Inn, which n See GATHERING INN, page A9

EDHCSD directors ponder policy changes Noel Stack Editor

PLACE ADDRESS LABEL HERE

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District Board of Directors put their own policies under a microscope at the Aug. 13 meeting, considering a multitude of changes and clarifying how the board should conduct its business. EDHCSD General Counsel Frank Splendorio began the discussion acknowledging all the front end work that went into cleaning up and revising EDHCSD Policy Series 4000:

Board of Directors and Series 5000: Meetings of the Board of Directors, with staff diligently working to draft language that creates parity among board members and updating policies in accordance with the law. “It’s always gonna be a give and take. You’re gonna give something and you may give up something to get that something,” Splendorio advised. “There’s no perfect policy because it’s really a judgment call and it’s based upon looking at all these competing interests — what do you, as a board, find to be the most important that we want to highlight, or a protocol we want to protect or an important weakness that we want to minimize.” Thursday night’s discussion centered around two specific policies — who has the ultimate say on the final board meeting agenda and who can request that items be placed on the agenda — before the board majority ultimately n See EDHCSD, page A8

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

Placerville resident Joshua Castro, who served in the Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom, stands at the El Dorado County Veterans Monument. Next week Castro will receive a Purple Heart for his heroic efforts during a firefight in Ramadi.

BRAVERY REWARDED County resident to receive Purple Heart

Noel Stack Editor

arch 4, 2007, while conducting a combat patrol on an elevated canal road near Ramadi, Iraq, with Iraqi Police and Iraqi Army, the vehicle carrying U.S. Army Sgt. Joshua Castro was hit by an improvised explosive device. Knocked down, and for a while knocked out, Castro awoke to the sounds of a firefight. “After regaining consciousness, I jumped back on my machine gun in the turret,” he recalled, taking aim at five to seven individuals on the other side of a canal. “Calling for Marine Air assets, two Cobras flew overhead to cover our position. The insurgents engaged the helicopters and the helicopters returned fire. “A enemy spotter for artillery started to dial in our position, and drop explosive rounds closer to us,” Castro continued. “We collected all the sensitive items, assisted our wounded platoon sergeant and crammed into another vehicle returning to a small fire base outpost. We immediately loaded up another vehicle and went back out to the area and continued to get engaged.” Castro’s heroic actions, and the lasting impact they have had on his

Courtesy photos

Army Sgt. Joshua Castro, above, spent nearly 18 months in Iraq as part of the Apache Troop, which was responsible for scouting — a job that led them to encounter numerous IEDs. At right, Apache Troop’s vehicles were hit hard during their time in Iraq. Here one is seen damaged after an IED detonated.

health, have resulted in a prestigious honor. Next Friday, Aug. 28, the Placerville resident will receive the Purple Heart during a special

his country. After a short stint in college, he joined the Army in late 2004 and went to training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, in 2005.

“It means a lot to me just because I know what it means, and I know I’ve earned it.” — U.S. Army Sgt. Joshua Castro ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Building in Placerville. The Ponderosa High School graduate knew after 9/11 that he wanted to serve

“I ended up getting stationed out in Fort Stewart in Georgia,” he said. “And I was there for most of my active career, unless deployed.”

Deployment with other members of the Apache Troop, 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry took him all over Iraq beginning in early 2007. Castro served as a scout during Operation Iraqi Freedom. “Mostly reconnaissance and observations, but we were able to do fire missions for artillery and mortar,” he explained. “We n See PURPLE HEART, page A8

Friday, August 21, 2026

Mountain Democrat

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ESSENTIALS OBITUARIES Obituaries on this page are written and paid for by the families or funeral homes. They are edited minimally by the Mountain Democrat. To submit an obituary, call (530) 622-1255, e-mail obits@mtdemocrat.net, fax (530) 344-5092, or visit mtdemocrat.com under “Submission Forms” at the bottom of the website. Include contact information with all submissions.

Donald “Leroy” Wylie

Sept. 30, 1931 – June 13th, 2026

Donald “Leroy” Wylie was born to Verner Wylie and Daisy Veerkamp in Placerville. He passed peacefully at his daughter’s home in Stockton. Our father was raised on his grandparents’ cattle ranch in Garden Valley. Our father also served in the Navy and went to Korea. Before his deployment he married Juanita “Louise “ Davenport. Once home from the Navy he went to work for Pacific Telephone & Telegraph out of the Placerville office. He worked for the company for 30 years while also running the family cattle ranch in Kelsey. He was also a founding member of the Garden Valley Volunteer Fire Department. His beloved Louise passed away in 1991. They were married for 38 years. A few years later he got remarried to Patricia V. Goggin of Placerville. They were married for 19 years until her passing in 2019. He is survived by his daughter Sherry, son Donnie, and grandson Tommy Levescy. A Celebration of Life will be held at the V.F.W. Hall in Georgetown on August 30th between 12pm and 2pm

Bruce Bredeson

June 2, 1961 – July 24, 2026

Bruce was born in San Antonio, Texas, raised in Placerville, California, and was a graduate of El Dorado High School. Bruce pursued his acting career, attending Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho, then continued at the Playmill Performing Arts Theater in West Yellowstone, Montana. He was active in Theater El Dorado in Placerville, Road Show productions with LDS church and attended Sugar Loaf Music camp. He moved to Utah and was an actor and director at the Hale Theater in Salt Lake City, Utah and was employed with Xerox and O C Tanner. Bruce returned to Sacramento, California to provide care for his sister Laurie, brother Howard and his mother Norma Bredeson. He then returned to work for Target in Woodland, Calif, later relocated to East New Market, Maryland and was employed at Target in Maryland. He was a resident of Cambridge, Maryland until his passing. Bruce was passionate about acting, directing, singing and costume design and found his niche in Salt Lake City at the Hale Theater. Bruce was a sweet, humorous and talented brother. Happy Trails to you “CaBruce” until we meet again. You were smart, kind and important and loved. Remembrances may be sent to the charity of your choice. Celebration of Life : August 23, 2026 Parker Theater 3605 State Street, South Salt Lake City, Utah 84115 Zoom : 7:30 PM Mountain Time 6:30 PM Pacific time Bruce Bredeson Celebration of Life Time: Aug 23, 2026 07:30 PM Mountain Time https://octanner.zoom.us/j/93866287952?pwd=am WjXSDS0l6dswJ6WJJbkygbLXA8Jr.1 Meeting ID: 938 6628 7952 Passcode: Bruce

Growlersburg escapee back in custody News release California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation officials announced that the incarcerated person who walked away on Feb. 23, 2026, from Growlersburg Conservation Camp in El Dorado County has been apprehended. On Aug. 19, Juan

El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office News release

El Dorado County resident Teresa Piper was sentenced on July 31 after pleading guilty to embezzling more than $341,000 from a family trust for which she served as successor trustee. Piper pleaded guilty to one felony count of embezzlement in violation of California Penal Code section 503. As part of her sentence, she was ordered to serve 120 days in custody, placed on two years of formal probation, and ordered to pay $341,962.71

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Caples Lake

Storage - 18,418 acre feet Percent full - 82.47%

Echo Lake

Storage - 1,612 acre feet Percent full - 83.43%

El Dorado Forebay Storage - 449 acre feet

Ice House Reservoir Storage - 33,417 acre feet Percent full - 77% Inflow - 0 cfs

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MOUNTAIN DEMOCRAT (ISSN 0745-7677) – Published Wednesday, and Friday for $120.00 per year (plus tax) by carrier, or by mail (includes applicable tax) in El Dorado County (other rates available upon request) by Mountain Democrat, Inc., 2889 Ray Lawyer Drive, Placerville, CA 95667. Periodical Postage Paid at Placerville, CA. Post Master: Send address changes to the Mountain Democrat, P. O. Box 1088, Placerville, CA 95667

CORRECTION In the “Homes unveiled for Caldor Fire survivors” story published on Aug. 19 in the Mountain Democrat, the HomeAid Sacramento representative was misidentified as Amber Reynaud. The representative quoted is Amber Celmer. We apologize for the error.

unauthorized personal use. The investigation was conducted by El Dorado County Sheriff ’s Office Det. Matthew French in collaboration with the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by the District Attorney’s Office Special Prosecutions Unit, which is responsible for investigating and prosecuting complex, financially motivated crimes. The El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office remains committed to protecting victims of financial crimes and holding individuals accountable for violating positions of trust.

Jenkinson Lake

Silver Fork above South Fork Confluence

Lake Aloha

Silver Fork below Oyster Stumpy Meadows Storage - 19,668 acre feet Creek Confluence

Outflow - 17 cfs Storage - 35,177 acre feet Percent full - 85%

Flow - 73.66 cfs

Storage - 958 acre feet Percent full - 19.14%

Flow - 12.75 cfs

Loon Lake

Storage - 6,254 acre feet Percent full - 70.18%

Storage - 54,161 acre feet Percent full - 78% Inflow - 0 Outflow - 108 cfs

Silver Lake

South Fork American River above Silver Fork Flow - 25.60 cfs

South Fork American River at Kyburz Flow - 20.96 cfs

Percent full - 93% Pilot Creek Inflow - 3.75 cfs Pilot Creek Outflow - 19.06 cfs

Union Valley Reservoir Storage - 225,359 acre feet Percent full - 85% Inflow - 93 cfs Outflow - 314 cfs

EL DORADO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE CRIME LOG The following information was taken from El Dorado County sheriff ’s reports:

May 14 8:09 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Mercedes Lane in El Dorado Hills. 9:35 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Fair Lane in Placerville. 10:39 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on French Creek Road in Shingle Springs.

11:46 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Highway 49 in Placerville. 12:15 p.m. Trespassing was reported at Big Oak Court and Sun Ridge Road in Placerville. 12:15 p.m. Burglary was reported at Dolomite Drive in El Dorado.

VACATION HOLDS

in restitution to the trust. The case stemmed from a decade-long pattern of financial misconduct involving the misappropriation of trust assets. Court records showed that Piper improperly accessed equity in a property owned by the trust and used trust income for personal expenditures. Following the death of her parents, Piper was appointed successor trustee and entrusted with managing the trust’s assets on behalf of six named beneficiaries. Instead, investigators determined that trust funds intended to benefit all beneficiaries were diverted for

LAKE LEVELS

11:23 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Gilmore Road in Pollock Pines.

TO PLACE AN AD

David Veramancini, 49, was apprehended

consideration of escape charges. Veramancini was received from Orange County on July 1, 2024. He was sentenced to 10 years for first-degree burglary. Since 1977, 99% of all people who have left an adult institution, camp or communitybased program without permission have been apprehended.

Embezzler nets jail time for family trust theft

10:40 a.m. Identity theft was reported on Highway 89 in Tahoma.

JUAN DAVID VERAMANCINI

by the Orange County Sheriff ’s Department on suspicion of firstdegree burglary and possession of stolen property. Following arraignment, he will be remanded to CDCR custody and subsequently rehoused at a CDCR institution. His case will be referred to the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office for

1:13 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Smokey Mountain Circle in El Dorado Hills. 2:14 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Marbro Road in Placerville. 2:17 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Product Drive in Shingle Springs. 5:34 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Clermont Way in El Dorado Hills.

Road in Placerville. 1:54 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Perry Creek Road in Somerset. 2:06 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Smokey Mountain Circle in El Dorado Hills. 3:23 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Springer Road in Placerville. 3:29 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Georgia Slide Road in Georgetown.

11:25 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Blackstone Parkway in El Dorado Hills. 3:24 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Dianthus Lane in El Dorado Hills. 5:18 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Cambridge Road and Waverly Drive in Cameron Park. 7:23 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Barcelona Drive in El Dorado Hills. 8:56 p.m. Battery was reported on Haskell Way in El Dorado Hills.

3:38 p.m. Trespassing was reported at Faith Lane and Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.

9:16 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at Big Cut and Pleasant Valley roads in Diamond Springs.

3:45 p.m. Identity theft was reported on Grandview Circle in Shingle Springs.

9:29 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Coon Hollow Road in Placerville.

5:23 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Truck Street in Placerville.

9:41 p.m. Burglary was reported on Hearst Drive in El Dorado Hills.

8:10 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Harvard Way in El Dorado Hills. 10:04 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Pinon Road in Rescue. 10:14 p.m. A party disturbance was reported on Excelsior and Chapin roads in Placerville.

9:51 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at Rock Barn Road and Shingle Springs Drive in Shingle Springs. 9:57 p.m. Battery was reported on Cameron Park Drive in Cameron Park. 9:58 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Shoreline Drive in Placerville.

10:29 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at Bucks Bar Circle and Bucks Bar Road in Placerville.

10:08 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Weeping Willow Court in Shingle Springs.

10:50 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Village Center Drive in El Dorado Hills.

10:33 p.m. Battery was reported on Trevi Way in El Dorado Hills. 10:43 p.m. A party disturbance was reported at Durock Road and Hein Lane in Shingle Springs.

a business on Bass Lake Road in El Dorado Hills. 2:06 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Perks Court in Placerville. 2:11 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. 3:25 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Green Valley Road in Cameron Park. 4:57 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. 7:58 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

May 18 1:32 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Spanish Dry Diggins Road in Greenwood. 7:37 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Lo Hi Way in Placerville. 9:49 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Cold Springs Road in Placerville. 10:12 a.m. Battery was reported at a business on Merry Chase Drive in Cameron Park. 10:17 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Capitol Avenue in Diamond Springs. 10:22 a.m. Trespassing was reported at Marina Park and Francisco drives in El Dorado Hills. 11:15 a.m. Identity theft was reported on Northside Drive in Cool.

5:36 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

11:01 p.m. A party disturbance was reported at Starlight Court and Sleepy Hollow Drive in Shingle Springs.

6:01 p.m. Battery was reported on China Garden Road in Placerville.

May 16

6:18 p.m. Identity theft was reported on Sierra Oaks Drive in El Dorado.

1:12 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Bass Lake Road in Rescue.

11:07 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at China Garden and Missouri Flat roads in Diamond Springs.

7:41 p.m. Trespassing was reported at Big Oak Court and Sun Ridge Road in Placerville.

1:13 a.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Village Center Drive in El Dorado Hills.

11:21 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines.

8:56 p.m. Burglary was reported on Boulder Mine Lane in Pilot Hill.

3:52 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Bedford Avenue in Placerville.

May 17

2:58 p.m. Brandishing was reported on Ice House Road in the Eldorado National Forest.

12:03 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on River Front Trail in El Dorado.

4:57 p.m. Trespassing was reported at Faith Lane and Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs.

12:19 a.m. Trespassing was reported on La Crescenta Drive in Cameron Park.

5:23 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Schooner Drive in El Dorado Hills.

12:16 p.m. Battery was reported on La Crescenta Drive in Cameron Park.

6:46 p.m. Trespassing was reported on United Drive in Cameron Park.

May 15 9:20 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Highland Circle in Placerville. 10:24 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Candlewood Drive in El Dorado Hills. 12:37 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Pleasant Valley

7:29 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Felton Way in El Dorado Hills. 10:09 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Sunset Lane in Shingle Springs. 10:25 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Rock Barn Road in Shingle Springs.

10:49 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at Big Cut and Pleasant Valley roads in Placerville.

12:57 p.m. Battery was reported at

11:45 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on North Shingle Road in Shingle Springs. 12:37 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Cutaway Lane in Placerville. 2:37 p.m. Identity theft was reported on Rock Falls Drive in Greenwood.

7 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Gemstone Road in Placerville.

Mountain Democrat Friday, August 21, 2026 A3

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PERFECT DAY FOR A PICNIC

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

CONCRETE

Junior Miss El Dorado County Delani Bauer, above left photo, center, serves dinner to Placerville City Council member John Clerici, left, and his brother David at Picnic in the Orchard on Aug. 15 at Rainbow Orchards. Images of Hope art instructor Susie Quinell, above right photo, shows a Halloweenthemed quilt she crafted. It sold for $1,000 during the live auction. At right, Matt Thomas of Placerville won the bid for a Crocker Art Museum tour for up to 10 guests in the live auction at Picnic in the Orchard.

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mages of Hope’s annual Picnic in the Orchard returned to Rainbow Orchards Aug. 15 and guests were treated to a delicious catered box dinner prepared by John Sanders of Old Town Grill accompanied by local wines and beer. Guests enjoyed live music provided by regional folk trio Hither & Yon while Images of Hope board President Andrew Vonderschmitt, also the Mountain Democrat’s features editor, emceed the fundraiser in Camino. Bidding battles began at the silent auction table featuring donated items, services from businesses as well as beautiful arts and crafts. Miss El Dorado Makayla Hendren, Miss Junior El Dorado Delanie Bauer and volunteers from Hands4Hope – Youth Making a Difference and MORE served dinner to guests and Donut Queen Christa Campbell

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Insurance Companies Pay for Treatment of Neuropathy! CALL NOW 530-622-3536 Event emcee and Images of Hope board President Andrew Vonderschmitt, right, and Images of Hope board member and event auctioneer Paul Zappettini, entertained and educated the crowd at the nonprofit’s event. prepared fresh apple doughnuts served warm for dessert. After dinner, Images of Hope board member Paul Zappettini played auctioneer during the live auction bidding wars. Guests raised their numbers high and vied for the chance to own one-of-a-kind handmade quilts, a group visitor package to the Crocker Art Museum and other experiences.

Images of Hope art instructor Cathie Urquhart painted a beautiful sunset landscape from start to finish during the evening, showcasing the nonprofit’s mission to provide free classes in healing arts, meditation and movement to support all people on the western slope of El Dorado County affected by cancer or other traumas.

CDFW invites input on Northern Sacramento Valley hunting opportunities News release The California Department of Fish and Wildlife North Central Region, in coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, will hold an online outreach meeting to take comments and recommendations from hunters regarding hunting opportunities in the Northern Sacramento Valley. The meeting will include updates on habitat conditions, availability of water for wetlands and hunting access opportunities. The meeting will be held 4-6 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 25, using Microsoft Teams. Email Gray Lodge Wildlife Area staff at glwla@wildlife.ca.gov for a link to attend and instructions on how to submit comments and questions.

State lands to be discussed include the Gray Lodge and Upper Butte Basin wildlife areas, including the Little Dry Creek, Howard Slough and Llano Seco units (Type A wildlife areas). Federal refuge personnel will also be available to speak about the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex including Delevan, Sacramento, Colusa and Sutter refuges. CDFW annually provides an opportunity for licensed hunters to comment and make recommendations on public hunting programs and hear updates about anticipated habitat conditions on Type A wildlife areas through public meetings and outreach. Type A wildlife areas are those that restrict hunter access during the waterfowl season.

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Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and may also lead to serious balance problems. Diseased Blood Vessels This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet. If not properly treated this lack of blood flow may Nerves Shrivel when cause the nerves to degenerate. Blood Vessels Weak and Disappear As you can see in Figure 1, as the blood vessels surrounding the nerves become diseased they shrink and shrivel. This process hastens the flow of vital Figure 1 nutrients to the nerves required to remain healthy. When these nerves begin to “die” it could lead to balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling and burning symptoms in the hands and feet.

In order to effectively treat your neuropathy 3 factors must be determined.

What is the underlying cause?

How much nerve damage has been sustained?

How much treatment will your condition require?

Drug Free Treatment Method

Placerville, CA – Currently the most common method most doctor’s recommend to treat neuropathy is with the use of prescription drugs. Although these drugs may temporarily reduce your symptoms they may cause a feeling of discomfort and in some cases lead to a variety of terrible unwanted side effects. We have a different method!

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Call 530-622-3536 NeuropathyPlacerville.com Most major health insurances are accepted, including BCBS, Aetna, Humana, and Medicare.

Friday, August 21, 2026

Mountain Democrat

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OPINION California Commentary

When does a ‘citizen’ initiative cease being a citizens’ initiative?

hen does a “citizen” initiative cease being a citizens’ initiative? That’s a question we’ve been asking since 2017 when the Supreme Court’s decision in California Cannabis Coalition v. City of Upland suggested that if citizens put a JON COUPAL measure on the ballot to raise taxes, the twothirds vote requirement didn’t apply. Ever since, we’ve seen a flood of these so-called citizens’ initiatives bankrolled by the very special interests (often in collusion with government) that will benefit from its passage. Earlier this month, we got yet another example of that. A coalition of “nonprofit community organizations and labor” collected more than 32,000 signatures to place a half-cent sales tax increase initiative on the November 2026 ballot in Fresno County. While we don’t like You’d think that would be the end of that the initiative is it, but this one took abusing the “Upland” some weird turns. loophole that makes First, the initiative failed to qualify on a it easier to raise your random sample. That taxes, if the tables meant every signature had to be counted and were turned, we significantly delayed wouldn’t like some certification. Then the Fresno County technicality used Board of Supervisors to take one of our expressed concerns taxpayer protection about the specificity of the plan and its own initiatives off the ability to successfully ballot. implement the initiative. Proponents claim that it’s simply an extension of the county’s 40-year-old Measure C. But it’s no mere extension. It’s a whole new spending plan. The initiative dedicates 25 percent of the tax to transit and 65 percent to local road repair. The remainder goes to “regional connectivity, innovation, and administration.” What does that mean? Well, the Board of Supervisors wanted to know so they requested a 30-day study of the impacts before placing it on the ballot. In doing so, they effectively pushed the initiative to the 2028 ballot because the study was unlikely to be completed in time to meet this year’s deadline. The initiative is controversial and there was undoubtedly politics involved in the decision, but the Board was acting within the clear authority given to it by the Elections Code. It says that when presented with a certified initiative, they can do one of three things: adopt it, place it on the ballot or send it off to be studied before doing one of the other two. That’s when a bill appeared in the Legislature. Assembly Bill 1923 was a “gut and amend,”

Letters to the Editor Caldor Fire accountability EDITOR: ast week I took a drive on Mormon Immigrant Trail from Interstate 50 in Pollock Pines to the end at Highway 88 near the maintenance yard. My wife and I wanted to witness the current state of the forest, and we were both shocked to see how little reforestation work has been done five years after the fire. To be fair, there were some signs of reforesting efforts and areas owned by private entities were being reforested. But the bulk of the public lands were bare or still had burned out timbers standing or waiting burn piles. Regardless of politics, this is an example of a failed commitment of our elected leaders. In June the Washington Post published an article about this situation titled “Gavin Newsom broke his promise about California’s fire management.” In the article, Newsom promised to “fast track work on 87,000 acres.” But the Washington Post found out through internal records from Cal Fire that

only 781 acres were complete! Less than 1%! Voters need to remember the “helicopter tour” of Newsom and then-President Joe Biden flying around the Caldor Fire and promising immediate support, relief and restoration. Five years later our community has been “gaslighted” by politicians who never intended to restore our forest. I urge readers to keep this in their memory when they cast their votes in the next two election cycles. MATTHEW SILVEIRA Placerville

Empty chair and unanswered questions EDITOR: t is very important to me to know about the candidate I vote for. How can I make a smart decision if I don’t know anything about the candidate? I don’t like to depend on the candidates’ mailers which are one-sided and often don’t answer my questions. Often there are

■ See LETTERS, page A7

■ See COUPAL, page A7

Guest Column

Keeping my focus on strengthening EDSO and public safety

selection standards ecently, for peace officers, former including reserve Sheriff John deputies, and require a D’Agostini thorough background announced his intention investigation. Former to run for sheriff in Sheriff D’Agostini was 2028, stating that he advised that he would be intends to return to “fix” required to participate the El Dorado County in that process, just as Sheriff ’s Office. I have we require of others tremendous respect for seeking appointment. the Office of Sheriff and SHERIFF JEFF LEIKAUF Former Sheriff believe anyone has the D’Agostini protested right to seek this office the requirement and and present their vision sought appointment based on his to the voters. However, some of the former status and ultimately chose to circumstances that have contributed withdraw rather than complete the to the disagreement between former required process. Sheriff D’Agostini and me deserve As sheriff, I was not willing to waive clarification. a legally required process based upon In 2022, when former Sheriff someone’s former title or our personal D’Agostini retired, he chose to fully relationship. I will not put an empty separate from the El Dorado County envelope with someone’s name on Sheriff ’s Office and not remain with it in my locked desk drawer and the organization in any capacity, claim it is a legitimate background including declining reserve deputy investigation. I would not do it for a status. In 2024, after that break in former sheriff, a friend, a colleague or service, he sought appointment as anyone else. The standards we require a reserve deputy. California law and of every person seeking the authority Peace Officer Standards and Training and responsibility of a peace officer regulations establish minimum

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must be applied consistently. This is not only our policy, but something we are audited on annually by the state of California to ensure compliance with POST and applicable law. No individual is exempt from these requirements, and no one is entitled to wear the badge without meeting the same standards expected of everyone else. The people of El Dorado County deserve nothing less. I recently observed a 2028 campaign bumper sticker for John D’Agostini for sheriff listing three tenets, one of which was “Total Accountability.” I agree with total accountability as it should be an important and fundamental expectation for our visitors, our citizens, our employees, and it should apply to everyone, including the sheriff.

Investing in our youth & schools One of the areas I am particularly proud of is the work our school resource officers and SCHIELD deputies are doing with the young people of El Dorado County. Our commitment to school safety goes far beyond responding when Snail Mail: Letters to the Editor P. O. Box 1088, Placerville 95667

something goes wrong. Our SROs build relationships with students and school staff, provide active-violence training and preparedness, mentor young people, support sporting events and school activities, conduct drug-prevention education, and have developed our One Pill Can Kill fentanyl-awareness campaign. Our SCHIELD program — Safeguarding Children through Healthy Initiatives, Education, Law Enforcement, and Deterrence — has expanded that commitment into our elementary schools, reaching 32 schools and making positive contact with more than 10,400 students, while providing DARE instruction and 84 educational presentations. In 2025 alone, our SROs documented 1,210 incidents and activities at Union Mine, Ponderosa, Oak Ridge and Independence high schools, including 711 proactive extra patrols and 499 other calls for service. Those numbers represent much more than statistics. They represent deputies being present on our campuses, building relationships ■ See LEIKAUF, page A5

Main Office: 2889 Ray Lawyer Drive Placerville 95667

mtdemocrat.com Mountain Democrat Friday, August 21, 2026 A5

Leikauf

Continued from A4

before a crisis occurs, protecting our children, supporting our educators and investing in the next generation of El Dorado County.

Keeping El Dorado County safe At the core of our mission is the responsibility to keep the people of El Dorado County safe, and the work of the men and women of the sheriff ’s office is producing measurable results. Former Sheriff D’Agostini’s final year in office was 2022 and I assumed the office of sheriff in 2023. That provides a clear point of comparison when looking at the crime data before and during my administration. According to National Incident-Based Reporting System data, reported person offenses decreased from 1,322 in 2022 to 1,103 in 2025 — a reduction of approximately 17%. During that same period, reported property offenses decreased from 2,486 to 1,643 — a reduction of approximately 34%. Taken together, reported person and property offenses decreased nearly 28% from 2022 through 2025. These numbers are not the accomplishment of any one person. They reflect the daily work of the deputies patrolling our communities, detectives investigating crimes, correctional staff managing our jails, dispatchers getting resources where they are needed, professional staff supporting our operations and the partnerships we have built throughout El Dorado County. There will always be more work to do, and even one victim of crime is one too many. But when someone suggests that this sheriff ’s office needs to be “fixed,” I believe the public deserves to know what the men and women who serve them are accomplishing. Their work matters and the results speak for themselves. Another issue I have been deeply committed to addressing is the distribution of drug paraphernalia in our community. In 2019, Sierra Harm Reduction Coalition began operating in El Dorado County and distributing needles, pipes and other drug-use supplies. This activity began and continued during John D’Agostini’s tenure as sheriff without meaningful opposition from his administration. When I became aware of the scope of these activities, I worked alongside other county leaders and community partners to act, ultimately resulting in a county ordinance prohibiting this type of distribution. I have remained committed to keeping needles, pipes and other drug paraphernalia from being distributed throughout our communities. This is not only about discouraging and preventing drug use; it is also a public safety issue. In a county with significant wildfire risk, distributing devices designed to ignite and smoke-controlled substances creates yet another preventable hazard. This is an issue I have taken seriously and one I will continue to fight.

Responsible stewardship of public funds Former Sheriff D’Agostini has also criticized the sheriff ’s office budget and suggested that it needed his attention. The reality is much simpler. The cost of public safety has increased over time, including during his administration, and much of that increase is tied to salaries, negotiated raises, healthcare costs, retirement and other employee benefits. This is a basic budget dynamic that does not require individual intervention to fix, as employee compensation is negotiated at the county level through collective bargaining agreements. As those agreements establish salary and benefit increases across the organization, the sheriff ’s office budget necessarily reflects those same adjustments, since personnel costs make up the largest share of our overall expenditures. I will never suggest that public safety is inexpensive. My responsibility is to make sure the taxpayers of El Dorado County receive value for that investment.

Leadership, accountability and unity

history. Former Sheriff D’Agostini’s original campaign in 2010 included ridding the county of the “Good Ol Boys Network.” When former Sheriff D’Agostini first took office, one of his most consequential appointments was not the promotion of someone from within the El Dorado County Sheriff ’s Office who had supported his campaign, worked toward his election or was familiar with the office’s ongoing business and challenges. He selected his brotherin-law, Rich Williams, to serve as undersheriff. That was his decision to make as the elected sheriff, just as the difficult personnel and leadership decisions made today are ultimately mine. But it is worth remembering when criticism is directed at who has or has not been promoted, appointed or rewarded within this organization. Leadership is not about surrounding yourself with people who agree with you or rewarding those who supported you politically. It is about putting the best people in positions to succeed, making difficult decisions when necessary, holding everyone — including ourselves — accountable and remembering that our obligation is to the organization and the people of El Dorado County. Whatever political disagreements may exist, I will continue to ask every member of this sheriff ’s office to remember that we wear the same badge, serve the same community and share the same responsibility to leave this organization stronger than we found it. Former Sheriff D’Agostini is obviously upset; however, I will not and have never leveled personal attacks or encouraged any supporter or sympathizer to do so on my behalf. I understand that false, personal and mean-spirited attacks can sometimes garner attention, and perhaps that is what he is seeking. However, I am extraordinarily proud of the men and women of this organization — the deputies, correctional officers, dispatchers, detectives, professional staff, volunteers and every person who comes to work each day committed to serving this community. They are not an organization that needs to be torn down or disparaged in

order to win an election. They are dedicated professionals who deserve our support, our respect and leadership that recognizes their tremendous work while continually looking for ways to make our organization better. There will always be challenges and there will always be opportunities to improve. My responsibility as sheriff is to face those challenges, support our people, hold ourselves accountable, follow the law, and continue moving this organization forward. I am proud of this organization. I am proud of what we have accomplished together. And above all, I am proud to be their sheriff and someone who has taken great

pride in serving all of our citizens, our communities and our sheriff ’s office family,

past and present, for 36 years with almost four of those years as your sheriff.

I also recognize that former Sheriff D’Agostini maintains relationships with some current and former members of this organization. That is neither surprising nor inherently concerning after his 12 years of service here. What does concern me is when political disagreements are allowed to create division within the sheriff ’s office. In any organization, there will be individuals who disagree with decisions that are made. Some may be disappointed by a promotional decision, disagree with being held accountable, resent being asked to correct a behavior or performance issue, or simply disagree with the direction of their leadership. Those disagreements are part of leading a large organization, and I accept them as part of the responsibility that comes with being sheriff. What I will not do is allow an election that is still years away to distract us from our mission or divide the men and women who serve this county. Planting seeds and recruiting people for another team within an organization is unhealthy and a form of undermining. Encouraging disruption, $ resentment or factions Off Bathroom within the sheriff ’s office Remodel does not hurt me — it hurts the organization, our employees, their families and ultimately the community we are sworn to serve. We have seen during past elections what happens $ when personal loyalties Off Kitchen and political promises Remodel become more important than loyalty to the mission and to one Kitchen Remodels • Bathroom Remodels another. Those divisions Window Replacements • Interior/Exterior Painting • Concrete can last long after an Ed Lane of Valley Home Construction election is over. Former Callto to schedule schedule your FREE Consultation and see Call your FREE Consultation Ed Lane of Valley Home Construction hasfull-service, been providing full-service, has been providing Sheriff D’Agostini why people choose Valley Home Construction. professional home remodeling and home improvements, as well as professional home remodeling and Ed Lane of Valley Home Construction has been providing full-service, and see why people choose understands these custom-built homes to thousands of customers in the greater Sacramento home improvements, as well as customregion since 1995. Valley Home Construction is fully licensed and insured. concepts and should Valley Home Construction. professional home remodeling and home improvements, asofwell as built homes to thousands customers understand these actions valleyhomeconstruction.com in the greater Sacramento region since Lic. #982830 homes to thousands of customers in the1995. greater Sacramento Valley Home Construction is break down whatcustom-built he Ed Mark fully licensed and insured. worked to build. region since 1995. Valley Home Construction is fully licensed and insured. I would also caution Lic. #982830 against rewriting

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A6 Friday, August 21, 2026 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

SPORTS

COMICS n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

Photo by Mike Bush

El Dorado quarterback Leland Thomas takes the snap from center Brooks Bertram while running back Jacob Brennan (right of Thomas) gets ready to run a route in a 7-on-7 game against Stagg at Trojan Stadiu m on June 10.

Experience returns for Cougars

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

Mike Bush

Mountain Democrat correspondent Depth at wide receiver is a plus for this year’s El Dorado High School football team. Experience on the offensive and defensive lines is also a premium for the Cougars. How these and other pieces of the puzzle come together will begin today. El Dorado finished the 2025 season with a 4-7 record and 2-5 in the Sierra Valley Conference. The Cougars defeated Golden Sierra 20-7 in a bowl game, which the Sac-Joaquin Section introduced to high school football teams that finished with a .500 or below overall record and didn’t earn a playoff berth. “Team speed,” said El Dorado head coach Kevin Placek, who enters his fifth season running the program. “This will be the fastest team we have had in my time here.”

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

Returning players

Placek, who is also the El Dorado athletic director, has 12 returning players on the roster. Headlining the Cougars’ roster is Logan Kruse, a senior who plays wide receiver and free safety. He had 41 receptions for 755 yards and six touchdowns during the 2025 season. Other El Dorado threats in catching the pigskin are wide receiver Heath Morris, a wide receiver/strong safety. The junior had 39 receptions for 511 yards and four touchdowns last season. On the line is tight end Jesse Parker, who also doubles at defensive end, is another junior. He had 17 catches

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

for 163 yards and a touchdown. Two more receivers on the roster are David Coggiola and Michigan Parsons. Coggiola also plays cornerback and Parsons at linebacker. Two quarterbacks are listed on the Cougars’ roster in Leland Thomas, a senior, and Carson Hurst, a junior. The remaining returning players for El Dorado are offensive tackle/ defensive tackle Eli White, guard/nose tackle Caleb Souza, guard/linebacker Steele Engle, running back/linebacker Kyle Placek, who is the son of Kevin Placek, running back/cornerback Luca Bird, offensive tackle/nose tackle Jacob Althin.

Newcomers

Seven players look to make an impact for El Dorado this season. Along with Hurst, the others are wide receiver/cornerback Charlie Sylvia, wide receiver/cornerback Johnathan Earnshaw, running back/ outside linebacker Jax Martin, center/defensive tackle Memphis Henrich, center defensive tackle Brooks Bertram and wide receiver/ cornerback Wyatt Parsons.

On the field

El Dorado held its annual intrasquad scrimmage toward the end of last week. Kevin Placek was impressed for the most part. “First defense was dominating,” Placek said. “First offense was explosive. Second groups need to work on execution — too many mistakes on basics on both sides of n See COUGARS, page A7

High Limit Racing roars into town Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

SUDOKU Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9

Solutions to puzzles in Classified section of newspaper.

HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis n TODAY ARIES (March 21-April 19). Leo season featured an emboldened version of you. You surprised a few of your nearest and dearest with your swift action. You’re headed into a season where you impress them with how hard you can work on what’s important to you. TAURUS (April 20-May 20). In the last few weeks, the cosmic cat vibes echoed through your stealth observations. You lingered in the tall grass, unseen, observing the experts who are already doing something you dearly want for your life. And now, no more watching. It’s go time. GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You’ve explored the more playful aspects of Leo season. The new era sees you continuing in this experimental approach even as you accomplish work that is in no way pretending or messing around. There will be a lightness in your serious pursuits. CANCER (June 22-July 22). Last season, you gave yourself permission to take up more space, and the world didn’t end. Quite the opposite. Now you’ll start living full time in the expansion. People around you will adjust to the more powerful you. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The spotlight suited you beautifully. Now comes the quieter pleasure of building something sturdy “backstage.” It’s bothersome to be watched while you’re figuring things out. You’ll have space, resources and the peace you need to do your best work. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). This is your time. In the weeks ahead, you’ll catch breaks, attract luck, belong to a team that works as hard as you do, and be rewarded and reciprocated at every turn. You’ve earned this, so enjoy it. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You spent Leo season volunteering in

good faith — a risk that rewarded you. Your habit of taking initiative will keep serving you and your team grows as people learn you can perform whether or not the conditions are ideal. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Last season, you made fun a priority instead of treating it like a reward you had to earn first. Keep bringing that same spirit to your many roles in life. The people around you will revel in the levity while still getting things done. Joy is your legacy. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’ve spent time watching people who already live the life you’re building, and you’ve borrowed what works. Now you’ll take it a few steps further, building the habits until they are part of your typical day and therefore take far less energy to initiate. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Leo season reminded you that your personality belongs in everything you create. The work doesn’t have to become less “you” as it becomes more professional. Virgo season helps you refine your signature until people recognize it before they see your name. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Leo season tempted you toward bigger ideas, and there’s no reason to scale them back now. Virgo season hands you a calendar, a notebook and enough ordinary Tuesdays to turn one ambitious vision into something people can actually experience. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You stepped into the spotlight and let people see what you could do. A few bold choices back there changed the way people see you. In Virgo season, you’ll pick some aspect of the experiment and repeat it until it couldn’t be more natural.

The High Rollers of Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing make their anticipated return to Placerville Speedway this Saturday, Aug. 22, when the Grocery Outlet Gold Rush Classic invades the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. California native and fan favorite Rico Abreu brings the series point lead into the West Coast Swing. The defending Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing champion has four wins on the season and sits atop the standings over Clute, Texas’ Aaron Reutzel; Fresno’s Giovanni Scelzi; Indianapolis, Ind.’s Tyler Courtney and Monrovia, Ind.’s Justin Peck. Last season saw Aromas’ Justin Sanders edge fellow Golden State driver Kaleb Montgomery during a thrilling feature to score his first career national Sprint Car victory. Both drivers return on Saturday hoping to put their names toward the front once again. Clovis driver Corey Day won the Dave Bradway Jr. Memorial at Placerville Speedway in 2022 and looks to add the Grocery Outlet Gold Rush Classic on Saturday. The three-time Gold Cup champion has four triumphs this season with Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing. The ever-popular James McFadden captured the Grocery Outlet Gold Rush Classic with High Limit Racing in 2024 and returns on Saturday aboard the Tarlton & Son No. 21 mount. The Aussi also ran third at the event in 2023 with the World of Outlaws. Additional drivers looking to punch their ticket to victory lane this Saturday will include past Grocery Outlet Gold Rush Classic winner Shane Golobic of Fremont; Broken Arrow, Okla.’s Tanner Thorson; Suisun City’s Chance Grasty; Myerstown, Penn.’s Brent Marks; Clovis’ Dominic Gorden; Jacksonville, Ore.’s Tanner Holmes; San Jose’s Tim Kaeding; Yuba City’s Landon Brooks; Sacramento’s Austin Wood; Knoxville, Iowa’s Kerry Madsen; Locust Grove, Okla.’s Daison Pursley; Enumclaw, Wash.’s Kasey Kahne and more.

The Grocery Outlet Gold Rush Classic begins the final stretch of the Sprint Car season at Placerville Speedway. After this Saturday, only three more weekends of Sprint Car racing remain in 2026. The high-banked bullring plays host to the 21st annual Forni-Humphreys Classic on Saturday, Sept. 12, followed by the NARC 410 Sprint Car sanctioned Pay Dirt Showdown presented by Sierra Nevada Brewing on Saturday, Oct. 10. For the first time ever Winged 360 Sprint Cars will then be part of the Hangtown 100 on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 13 & 14. Both nights also showcase the USAC NOS Energy Drink National Midgets.

Tickets & details Grandstand tickets for the Grocery Outlet Gold Rush Classic this Saturday, Aug. 22 are reserved and can be purchased via highlimitracing. ticketspice.com/placerville-speedwaykhlr-2026. Pit passes can be purchased at the pit gate on race day or via the Pit Pay App. The pit gate will open at noon, with the front gate opening at 4 p.m. Hot laps are slated for 5:45 p.m. with qualifying and racing to follow. Hirst Home Team Happy Hour is offered from 4-6 p.m. in the grandstands featuring live music and discounted Coors Light/ Coors Banquet Beer at the Cold Zone. The Placerville Speedway is located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville, 100 Placerville Drive. For more information log onto placervillespeedway.com.

Upcoming events Saturday, Sept. 12: 21st annual Forni-Humphreys Classic Championship Night ($8,500-to-win) featuring Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Pure Stocks, Ltd. Late Models and Mini Trucks Friday, Sept. 25 & Saturday, Sept. 26: Insanity Tour/ First Responders Night presented by the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office featuring Malicious Monster Trucks

mtdemocrat.com

Letters

Cougars

Continued from A4

candidate forums available, which is perfectly suited to our small county. These are usually run by the nonpartisan League of Women Voters, Taxpayers Association of El Dorado County or other groups that keep them fair and orderly. Gina Posey, who is running for supervisor in District 4 attended four forums during the primary election period to answer your questions. Her opponent Ted Gaines, did not attend any of the forums that were held at that time … an empty chair and unanswered questions. I wonder why? “A polite smile and a familiar last name don’t clear our brush, fix our roads or stand up to outside developers. Voters remember his track record of rubber-stamping the growth that paved over Placer County, and now he’s cutting backroom handshakes

Coupal

Continued from A4

bypassing the usual committee process. It would require “any Fresno County initiative petition that has been certified as sufficient by the Fresno County Registrar of Voters on or before July 8, 2026, to be submitted, without alteration, to the voters at the November 3, 2026, statewide general election.” Normally, that might be something we would support. While we don’t like that the initiative is abusing the “Upland” loophole that makes it easier to raise your taxes, if the tables were turned, we wouldn’t like some technicality used to take one of our taxpayer protection initiatives off the ballot. Except, they would gleefully use a technicality to take something of ours off the ballot — and have. That’s the difference. It would never be done for us or seemingly anyone else, and that’s the problem. In fact, while AB 1923 was being gutted and amended, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors did exactly what the Fresno board did. Faced with a qualified citizen initiative that would raise the minimum wage to $30 per hour with over 100,000 signatures collected and certified by the Alameda Registrar of Voters, the board voted 3-2 to order the same 30-day study under the same Elections Code section, knowingly moving the measure off the November ballot to the next election in 2028. Same statute, same options, same choice. No bill to override Alameda. Why? Because what the Legislature is doing in Fresno is clearly designed to allow the measure’s politically favored proponents to abuse the Upland loophole before Proposition 43 closes it in November. The court-created loophole allows certain earmarked special taxes to pass with fewer votes than the two-thirds vote otherwise required. That’s why being on the 2026 ballot is so important for them and why it isn’t important enough for legislative action on the minimum wage proposal in

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Come and384 enjoy a paid lunch Public Employees Placerville Dr. with the Retired 401 East Bidwell St. 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. DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530) 503-7400 or see edcdems.org for more information.

Do you have an announcement that you would like to include here? Contact Elizabeth Hansen (530) 344-5028 or ehansen@mtdemocrat.net

Friday, August 21, 2026

Continued from A6

the ball. Still waiting for younger players to step up to the level of physicality it takes to play at the varsity level.” El Dorado will take part in a three-way scrimmage against River Valley of Yuba City, at Lindhurst on Friday at 7 p.m. “(Its) going to be a good test for us,” Placek said. “We get to work against a Wing-T team (Lindhurst) and a Pro-style (offense from River Valley).” Then the action picks up for the Cougars on Friday, Aug. 28, when they make the short trek to Shingle Springs to open the regular season at Ponderosa in the annual Gold Pan Game. Ponderosa returns many players from the 2025 SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Share your team, and should play a major role being one of the opinion with our readers. Visit mtdemocrat.com. top teams in the Capital Valley Conference. “I believe that Ponderosa has the most talented team they have had in years,” said Placek of the Bruins. “Size and speed just about everywhere.” El Dorado will play Del Campo of Fair Oaks and Lincoln of Lincoln to conclude preseason. Alameda County. Liberty Ranch, which won the conference title in Don’t believe them when they tell you this is 2025, and Bradshaw Christian High are the teams about the will of the people or democracy. If it was, to beat, Placek noted. Bradshaw has won three titles they would have passed a bill that said a board since 2021, after the pandemic ended in the same may not use the 30-day study to move a qualified year. Liberty Ranch won the 2022 title. initiative off the next ballot. They didn’t. This is the “Liberty has so many returners coming back Legislature putting its thumb on the scale to get one from last year’s league championship team,” said “citizen” initiative tax increase passed. When does Placek of the Hawks. “Phenomenal coaching staff. a citizen initiative cease being a citizens’ initiative? Bradshaw is Bradshaw. They do not shy away from We’d like an answer. what they do and execute as well as any team in the Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation section.” Taxpayers Association. 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 to do the same here,” said Gina Posey. “Real leadership isn’t about protecting an image from the sidelines. The trust of the voters is earned out here on the ground — by showing up where it’s tough, answering the hard questions and looking your neighbors in the eye.” She has challenged Gaines to four forums, four communities. Anywhere in District 4, anytime. We will see if he rises to the challenge or if we, the voters, are left wondering what he has to hide. MARY ELLIOTT-KLEMM Somerset

For Information Email: syndicate-service@nytimes.com For Release Friday, August 21, 2026

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

Friday, August 21, 2026

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Edited by Will Shortz

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Saturday, August 22, 2026

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Edited by Will Shortz 1

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No. 0718

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PUZZLE BY RYAN JUDGE

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A8 Friday, August 21, 2026 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

EDHCSD

Continued from A1

approved the policy rewrites with a few modifications.

Who has the power? Questions over the general manager’s authority versus the board president brought differing opinions to light. Policy 5020.10: “The general manager and district clerk, in a form approved by general counsel, shall prepare an agenda for each regular and special meeting of the board of directors. The general manager shall confer and coordinate with the board president regarding the proposed agenda, however, the general manager retains all final authority regarding the final agenda, including its contents and order of items.” Director Stephen Ferry pointed out, “We have a general manager going to court on Jan. 26, coming up in 2027. There are people (who) can go off the rails.” Ferry is referring to former general manager Kevin Loewen, who is accused of two felony perjury counts, one felony count of participating in a government contract while having a financial interest, and three misdemeanor counts of participating in a government decision while having a conflict of interest. “My point is that the general manager doesn’t get elected. They get appointed. We get elected. We’re the ones with the audience, if you will,” Ferry continued, explaining that he has concerns with board members answering to the public when something goes wrong with or missing from the agenda. “And we just say ... ‘You know, we’re supposed to do that, because that’s what our policy manual says.’” “That’s a remarkable amount of discretion for an employee who reports to the board, giving up the board’s purview to set the agenda and what needs to come before the public,” Director Gary Kinghorn maintained. “That reverses the normal governance hierarchy.” Splendorio acknowledged the concern, calling it one of the

Purple Heart

“competing interests” staff has sought to address with the policy changes, including those related to cooperation between the general manager and board, and the board president’s role. “The president is not the board. The president possesses no extraordinary powers above and beyond any other director,” Splendorio said. “So just like the general manager can’t take direction from any individual or member, he or she shouldn’t be able to take any direction specifically from the president. “(A) good GM will work with that president,” he added. “They’re not gonna stiff-arm that president.” The attorney and board members pointed out that the GM works at the pleasure of the board of directors. The safety rail in place is that the board has the ability to evaluate the general manager’s job performance and, if needed, dismiss them. “Changing the structure in which the board and president and GM work on getting the agenda out was a huge change, from my perspective,” Board President Noelle Mattock said. “But I think it’s in the best interest and the governance of this organization.” “What we know about governance is the GM should only take the direction from the majority of the board,” added Director Heidi Hannaman, explaining that shifting the authority to the board president puts the GM in a perilous position should the president be at odds with a majority of the board. Putting it bluntly, Splendorio told directors, “We’re not really designing policies for ... nice GMs. We have to design them for the bad GMs and we have, all due respect, designed (the policies) for the bad directors, too.”

Three’s a crowd Board policy as presented: “Items may be agendized for future board of directors meetings upon a majority vote by the board of directors in an open meeting. Nothing herein precludes a board director from asking the general manager to exercise his or her administrative authority to place a matter on a future

agenda, and nothing precludes any member of the public from requesting the board of directors to request to have a particular item agendized for a future meeting under this policy.” Some directors and members of the public felt, as written, the language is too restrictive. “Nobody does it this way,” Kinghorn shared. “It’s frustrating when a single board member, potentially in a minority, cannot bring the public’s concern in front of the board for open discussion. And California State Code and good governance practices and the rest of the state seems to agree with that.” “Most communities, bodies of this size, require two directors to put something on the agenda, and that is, again, voting on it, not approving it; it’s just putting it up for discussion,” EDH resident Ben Glickman said. “It’s very difficult to get three directors together, right? They can’t do it with the Brown Act. So how is one to get that discussion in order to come to this meeting (and ) say, ‘I want this on the agenda,’ and have people think about it enough and be able to get it on. It just seems a little restrictive, so I’m just curious if there’s a history there or a rationale.” Splendorio noted this structure has been in place for some time and shared thoughts on possible problems should the board relax the policy. “I just want to highlight the competing concerns because you can’t have a situation where you have a minority board member, one person, who has clearly a different perspective or has some special interest that they’re focused on, that continues to take up time,” he said. “I have clients that allow anyone to do it. I have clients that went from one to two or three because they felt ... their agenda (was being) monopolized by these very unique, odd special interests.” Director Heidi Hannaman, who served on the committee that worked with staff to modify the policies, noted the cleaned up language in the policy rewrite gives individual directors “two or three paths” to place something on the agenda. She shared her fellow

directors’ frustrations on the delays between agendizing an item and finally getting to the discussion in an open meeting. She suggested the policy allow two board members to agendize an item “but we can’t have a complete free for all.” “If you look at what we had before, I think ... we’re trying to make it a little more flexible, but have some guardrails,” Hannaman said. Mattock said having three members of the board agree on a future agenda item has allowed the board to be “a little bit more focused on the items that are important to the community and the work of the community that needs to get done.” While comfortable with the rule of three, Mattock went on to say she would consider dropping the threshold to two if her fellow directors desired. Noting some brutally long past meetings, Director Mike Martinelli said he could see where directors and residents were coming from “But there has to be some, as mentioned, guardrails in place ... (to) keep these meetings going forward for the greater good of the community.” The final motion to approve EDHCSD Policy Series 4000 passed 4-1 with the request that staff return with language that would allow a director serving on a subcommittee to place items on that subcommittee’s agenda. Directors Hannaman, Martinelli, Kinghorn and Mattock voted yes, and Director Ferry voted no. A final motion to approve EDHCSD Policy Series 5000: Meetings of the Board of Directors also passed 4-1 with changes: the threshold to add items to a future agenda was changed to two directors and direction was given to add language clarifying that the general manager does not have the authority to block or indefinitely defer requested future agenda items. Ferry was again the lone dissenter. He argued the board should consider the significant number of policy changes and rewrites in sections rather than approve them all at once, giving the board and public time to digest and discuss the information.

so you just sort of tell yourself nothing’s wrong and you move on with the day,” he added. But severe headaches are hard to ignore. “I’ve had migraines for almost 20 years now. I just learned to sort of live with it,” Castro shared. “I don’t take meds or anything, but they give you little TENS-like units for your brain and all that.” After a stint working in the Sacramento Valley, Castro joined the El Dorado County Veterans Services team during the COVID years and later transferred to Behavioral Health. “I like being able to give back a lot,” he admitted. “I just have a heart for serving people, so I’ve helped a lot of vets over the years and done groups and all that. Behavioral health is ... something that goes hand in hand with that.” In late June Castro received an email from the U.S. Army informing him he had earned the Purple Heart. “It was something I’d never expected. I saw the email ... and I read it once and then I stopped, and I had to read it like three more times for it truly to process,” Castro said. “The first thing I did was call my mom, and she shrieked so loud that I heard my dad stumble into the room like something was going on, saying, ‘Everybody OK? Are you OK?’ And she’s like, ‘Josh is getting a Purple Heart.’ And so then my mom just started crying.” Proud parents Fidel and Ana Castro plan to fly from Texas for their son’s ceremony. His twin sons, 17, and 2 ½-year-old son will also be there. The Purple Heart medal is presented to service members who

have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. military — a solemn distinction that means a service member has greatly sacrificed themselves, or sometimes paid the ultimate price, while in the line of duty, according to information provided by the United Service Organizations. The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor noted more than 1.8 million Purple Heart medals have been presented to service members since the award was created in 1782. “It means a lot to me just because I know what it means, and I know I’ve earned it,” Castro said. The former Army sergeant said he’s proud of what he and fellow soldiers accomplished while serving in Iraq, fighting alongside the Iraqi people against terrorists trying to take over. “The media did cover a lot of stuff, but I don’t think they ever really got to see what it was really about — going to Ramadi and knocking attacks down to where people could live a life again, going to Fallujah and clearing roadside bombs with a metal detector,” Castro explained. “Going to the Anbar and then Baghdad, we got to drive through everything on the way back and we saw families that were out and about with their kids. We saw women that were going to colleges. We saw stores that were rebuilt and people were living life again. The hospitals and everything that we helped set up — we saw lives, and not a lot of people got to see that, I think. We definitely made a difference while we were there.”

Continued from A1

have mechanized vehicles, we did dismounted patrols and were always low staff, so we did our own medical as well.” Sometimes that medical treatment was as simple as getting up, brushing off the dust, changing out damaged gear if possible and getting back on the vehicle. Marines joined Apache Troop on the missions. “We started in Ramadi. After about four months, we moved to Fallujah, went to the Anbar and then finished up in Baghdad,” he shared. “We were probably the most moved unit.” Why? “Constant success in everything that we did, I’m pretty sure,” Castro noted. “Every vehicle that we brought ... didn’t bring one of them back. I think we hit some 72 IEDs in total. We found a lot more. “I was blown up multiple times,” he admitted. “I definitely know I’m lucky. It’s hard to make it through one, let alone multiple IEDs.” But it came with a price — migraines and physical wounds, and finally a traumatic brain injury diagnosis. “Because it was so early on in the war, they didn’t really understand IEDs as much as they do now,”

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Castro told the Mountain Democrat. “In Afghanistan, like even in the 2010s, if you got hit you were taken off the line, you were taken to go and see medical and they did CT scans, MRIs, everything. They brought you back slowly.” During his nearly 18 months in Iraq, prior to the military taking more precautions with injured soldiers, Castro described it a different way: “Then it was you get blown up, you do your job, they take you to another vehicle, you get in and you go right back out.” When he returned to the U.S. and was honorably discharged — he served four years active and then another five in reserves total — Castro decided to go back to college as prior to his time in the Army he said he was a pretty studious, smart young man. “I failed all of the classes that I would take, and I just couldn’t figure out why,” he said. “And it wasn’t until 2019 they actually diagnosed me with traumatic brain injury. My memory is shot for short-term memory. I have a stutter. It comes out when I get really excited. “I always knew something was wrong but I think in the military culture, it’s out of sight out of mind,

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Gathering Inn

Mountain Democrat Friday, August 21, 2026 A9

Continued from A1 of sustainability and security and dignity.” Golling noted the project has an ideal location. “It’s just up the street from (Placerville’s) senior center and the (county’s) Health and Human Services building,” he said. “(Since) the folks that we’re serving are generally of a lower income, they’re oftentimes eligible for those services through the county. And focusing on older adults makes it to where (they can) go to the senior center and receive any services there or participate in activities. “Part of that sustainability of housing is to make sure that folks aren’t isolating when they get into that housing,” Golling added. “So, anywhere where they can build community is always great, and that’s one of the reasons that made this property as perfect as it is.” In addition to its work in El Dorado County, The Gathering Inn has been active in two other counties. “Our operations right now are in Placer County, El Dorado County, and Sacramento County, and our permanent supportive housing is just in El Dorado County and Placer County,” Golling said. Recognizing The Gathering Inn’s longer history, Golling mentioned this nonprofit’s first project was an emergency shelter for adults and families with children that opened in Roseville in 2004 and remains in operation. Kris Kuntz, program director for housing and homeless strategy with Anthem Blue Cross, spoke about the partnership for this project. “Very simply, Anthem provided funding to The Gathering Inn, which is a local housing and homeless organization, to acquire a property there in Placerville,” Kuntz explained to the Mountain Democrat. “And they basically provide affordable rental housing to Anthem members

purchased the property late last year with state grant funding. Through this housing operated by The Gathering Inn, tenants are provided with enhanced care management and community support services to help them remain stably housed. Assisting in efforts to ensure financial sustainability and community integration for these residents, rents are set at one-third of the tenants’ income. Acquiring qualified tenants to occupy this housing facility was a short-term project, as this housing was fully leased last month, only three months after its opening. “This has given me hope,” Gathering Inn resident Glenn shared. “I was living in my car and thought this is just how it’s going to be. And now, wow, I can get back to work and doing all the things I wanted to do. When you’re homeless, you can’t get anything accomplished.” Nick Golling, executive vice president of The Gathering Inn, told the Mountain Democrat the local project aligns with this Northern California nonprofit homeless services organization’s mission to “meet people where they are, inspire hope and walk alongside them on their journey to sustainable housing.” “We’re really just grateful to be able to provide some support to folks who need it in El Dorado County and literally become part of the continuum of care,” Golling said. “Some of the folks that we were able to bring in were folks that were receiving services from some really great existing nonprofits in the community, like the Upper Room (Dining Hall). “And we were able to help some folks that had been staying in the local shelter to get out, as well,” he continued. “So, really, it’s just kind of creating a little bit more of a flow for folks who don’t have a permanent address to be able to regain that part of their lives and regain their sense

we acquired that we’re making affordable to people, and we’ve targeted our members who are older,” he said. “So, we know that older folks are increasingly becoming homeless in El Dorado County. They’re ending up homeless because they can’t afford to pay their rent anymore.” Including the new housing project in Placerville, Anthem Blue Cross has invested more than $3.3 million to address housing and homelessness in El Dorado County, according to Kuntz. “We also provided funding to the county’s Health and Human Services Agency, (and) to other local organizations, (such as) Coalition for the Homeless, Housing El Dorado, Marshall Medical Center,” he said. Reflecting on the completion of the new housing project in Placerville, Kuntz recognized the greater need for providing housing assistance for homeless people in this county. “There is way more need,” he said. “We’re not naive. It’s not 100 units, not 500 units. I wish we could do more. It’s a small project, but it’s something, right? And we see it. Hopefully, we can potentially do more things like this.”

who are homeless, and then also provide wraparound services, case management, connections to help, services, etc.” The partnership for this project is unique, Kuntz noted. “I think the unique thing about this is that we provided the funding for them to acquire and own the property, but then as folks move in, all the case management and social services are going to be also delivered by The Gathering Inn and paid for via Medi-Cal,” he said. The project also involved the work of community partners in El Dorado County that assisted in identifying Anthem members who were homeless and living in shelters and living in a car on the streets. They were then offered the opportunity to acquire housing with very affordable rents. Kuntz, who also serves on the board of directors of the El Dorado County Continuum of Care, mentioned the new Placerville housing project is not designated as a subsidized affordable housing project or a permanent supportive housing project. “It’s really just housing that

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IN THE

KNOW Aug. 21 The El Dorado County Certified Farmers Market takes place at the Cameron Park Community Center, 2502 Country Club Drive in Cameron Park from 8 a.m. to noon featuring just picked produce sold directly by the farmers. Learn more at eldoradofarmersmarket.com. Pollock Pines-Camino Community Center hosts the return of Taco Fiesta Night from 4:30-7 p.m. All you can eat tacos, fixings, a special entrée from Chef Alli and desserts. The bar will be selling beer, wine, margaritas and sodas. This event supports the center and its activities. For more information call (530) 647-8005 or email pollockpinesca@gmail.com. Boeger Winery in Placerville will host Live Music with Golden Cadillacs at 6 p.m. For more information visit boegerwinery.com. The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host its Summer Concert Series with Take 2 at Community Park, 1021 Harvard Way from 7-9:30 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org. The Rescue Community Center will host Bingo Night from 5-8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter.com. The Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park presents its Spotlight Summer Comedy Series with John Morris Ross, Ellis Rodriguez and Maryam Moosavi at 8 p.m., doors at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com. The Last Call Band will perform, 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com. Broadway at Music Circus presents “Hairspray” through Aug. 30 at the UC Davis Health pavilion in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com. Sentivo Vineyards will host its Suisun Valley Concert Series with Pop Rocks from 6-8:30 p.m. at 2316 Rockville Road in Fairfield. Learn more at sentivovineyards.com.

Aug. 22 The El Dorado County Certified Farmers Market takes place next to CinemaWest on Placerville Drive from 8 a.m. to noon featuring just picked produce sold directly by the farmers. Learn more at eldoradofarmersmarket.com The People’s Mountain Market takes place from 9 a.m. to noon at Garden Valley Park featuring live entertainment, fruits and vegetables, flowers, eggs, nuts, jams, baked goods, jewelry and crafts. Learn more at facebook.com/ people/Peoples-MountainMarket. El Dorado Hills Town Center Farmers Market takes place in the amphitheater near Brickyard & South Fork from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy local certified produce, fresh flowers, wine, baked goods, micro greens, skin care products, handmade goods, baskets, jewelry, face painting, henna art and more. El Dorado Hills Arts ■ See KNOW, page B4

the hottest

Friday, August 21, 2026

Little Drag Show

Courtesy photos

Katrina Orleans (Justin Sawyer) welcomes guests of all stripes to Main Street Menagerie, a monthly variety drag show at the Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville coming Aug. 26 at 7 p.m.

Community through visibility and philanthropy Andrew Vonderschmitt Features editor

ong before Justin Sawyer donned the persona Katrina Orleans or started the Hottest Little Drag Show in Placerville, he knew that community mattered — especially when people could not see themselves reflected in the place they called home. That realization helped spark Main Street Menagerie, a monthly drag show at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville that has grown from a small gathering into a popular night of entertainment, connection and community. The show takes place the last Wednesday of each month from 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club, 251 Main St. The event features drag queens, drag kings and performers from throughout Northern California and beyond, with lip-sync performances, dancing, comedy and sometimes gravity-defying stunts — all performed in high heels. For Sawyer, the show is about much more than entertainment.

Creating visibility, building community “I just really want to create community,” Sawyer said. “Being visible shows people that safety is real and realized.” Sawyer moved to El Dorado County from Sacramento about nine years ago with his husband. Before the move, he had been deeply involved in Sacramento’s LGBTQ community and had worked in bars in the city’s Lavender Heights district. The transition to rural

Chantal, left, and Katrina Orleans, right, pull out all the stops at a recent Main Street Menagerie. El Dorado County was a cultural shift. “When we moved up here, there wasn’t anything,” Sawyer said. “And so we quickly realized that if we wanted culture, that we were going to have to create it.” The first version of the show was a drag brunch at Creekside Cork and Brew in Fair Play. The event sold out, and Sawyer said one response from attendees stood out. “We had no idea that there were other queer people that lived here,” he recalled. For Sawyer, that was a sign that the community was there. It simply needed places where people could find one another. “Without somewhere to meet and gather, they

were unaware of each other and could not then create resources or support networks for each other because they simply just didn’t know that they even existed out here,” he said. After Creekside Cork and Brew closed, Sawyer found a new home for the event at The Green Room Social Club, where an existing variety show was transformed into a Pride-focused event. More than four years later, the show has continued to grow. The Green Room has become an important part of that growth, Sawyer said. The downtown venue hosts a wide range of events throughout the month, from acoustic music and heavy metal to drag performances and other community gatherings.

The venue describes itself as a boutique music events venue and craft pub in historical downtown Placerville.

A hub for connection “The Green Room has been there, and she speaks highly for not only the people that are in the show, but the people that are in this community that show up to the Green Room,” Sawyer said, referring to Jennifer Teie founder of the club. “Every night of the month, a community gets to call the Green Room home.” “The monthly drag shows are one of the longest running and most successful events on calendar next to monthly thrash metal nights,” said Teie. “Last Wednesdays are Pride

night, last Saturdays are metal.” she said, adding that this coming Sunday the club will host a youth showcase highlighting talented young artists. “There’s something for everyone,” she said. “Quality live entertainment and events by design” At the most recent drag show, 92 people attended, Sawyer said, making it the venue’s busiest night of the month. The momentum for the show has extended to the less-frequent, but equally popular brunch show Makeup and Mimosas which can be seen Sept. 20 at the Green Room. The appeal, he said, extends beyond the ■ See DRAG, page B3

B2 Friday, August 21, 2026 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Talented youth hit the Green Room stage Sunday News release

n Sunday, Aug. 23, at 2 p.m., 12 talented kids will perform at the Green Room Social Club on Main Street in Placerville. These talented musicians, ages 10-18, participated in the Kids Music Showcase competition for the Golden Road Gathering Music Festival last May. This was the third successful kids showcase, where kids throughout El Dorado County — and beyond — prepared a one-song video submission to be considered. Solos, duos and bands were encouraged to compete on any instruments, and the top 12 entrants performed at the Music Festival. It is fortunate to have supportive, local community venues that support the youth and live music. The Green Room Social Club has been a pinnacle

establishment, supporting the local community through the arts, live music, special events and private events. The opportunity for the kids to experience a professional stage with a state-of-the-art sound system, lighting, livestream and audience is expected to be amazing. “Performing builds confidence, discipline in preparation and joy in sharing your talent,” said Lisa Bond, local music teacher and member of Red Dirt Ruckus. The performers include Aletheia Elim, Jemma Holmes, Eden Brunet, Sofia Memari, Wesley Anfinson, Mylah Medici, Talulah Medici, Rowan Yalin, Naomi Lee, Mary Nicole Turner, Rebecca Woodin and Asher Elim. Golden Road Gathering 2027 is in the works for May 14-16, and will be getting ready for the fourth annual Kids Music Showcase.

What is really happening inside your trees?

Courtesy photo

A talented group of kids who performed last May at the Golden Road Gathering as part of the Kids Music Showcase competition will grace the stage at the Green Room Social Club in Placerville Sunday at 2 p.m.

Local actor earns international recognition News release

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Shingle Springs actor has gained international attention for his performance in an independent short film, earning recognition on the festival circuit just two years into his professional acting career. Gavin Alton-James Bailey, 20, received the Best Acting Debut award from the New York International Film Awards for his lead performance in “Read The Room,” an independent psychological thriller. The award marks a significant milestone for Bailey, whose acting career has developed

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largely through training and opportunities in the local community. Bailey’s performance was also named a semifinalist for Best Actor at both the IndieX Film Festival and the Independent Shorts Awards. In “Read The Room,” Bailey portrays Micah, in the psychological thriller. The film premiered in Sacramento earlier this year and has since been making its way through the international festival circuit. For Bailey, the recognition has special meaning because his training began close to home. He has trained at Studio 24 in Folsom while continuing to pursue professional opportunities in film and television. “I’m incredibly grateful to receive this recognition, especially so early in my career,” Bailey said. “I’ve put a tremendous amount of work into developing as an actor, and it means a lot to see that work recognized internationally while representing the community where I grew up and began pursuing this career.” Bailey said the recognition also reinforces his belief that

Gavin Alton-James Bailey aspiring performers do not have to begin their careers in major entertainment centers to pursue their goals. “I hope this can encourage other young people in El Dorado County and throughout Northern California to pursue the arts and take their creative goals seriously,” he said. “You don’t necessarily have to start in Los Angeles or New York to begin building a career. There are opportunities to develop your craft and create meaningful work right here.” The recognition comes as Bailey continues to build his professional

Speakers Series announces influential lineup Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

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career. He is pursuing additional opportunities in film and television while continuing his acting training and development. The New York International Film Awards recognizes achievements in independent filmmaking and acting from filmmakers and performers around the world. Bailey’s Best Acting Debut award adds to the growing recognition for his work in “Read The Room.” For more information about Bailey and his work, visit his website at gavinalton-jamesbailey. com.

ACRAMENTO — The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce has announced the speaker lineup for the 2026-27 Sacramento Speakers Series, bringing prominent speakers and thought leaders to the capital city. Led by the Sacramento Metro Chamber and presented by Sutter Health in partnership with KCRA 3, My58 and KFBK News Radio, the series will begin Sept. 30 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center. Season tickets are now available to the public. A Sacramento tradition for more than two decades, the Speakers Series was founded in 2004 and acquired by the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce in 2025. The series has become a cornerstone of civic dialogue, featuring diverse and influential voices who offer audiences insight and perspectives on a range of topics. “This season’s Speakers Series lineup reflects our commitment to bringing influential leaders, fresh perspectives and meaningful conversations to the Capital Region,” said Robert Heidt, president and CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber. “We are honored to continue building on the legacy of this premier program by welcoming an exceptional group of speakers who will inspire new ideas, challenge

perspectives and spark meaningful dialogue. As we continue to elevate the attendee experience, we look forward to bringing our community together for another memorable season.”

The 2026-27 lineup includes: Sept. 30: Monica Lewinsky Oct. 28: Liz Cheney Jan. 27, 2027: Amy Webb Feb. 17, 2027: James Mattis March 24, 2027: Emmanuel Acho April 28, 2027: Father Greg Boyle The series also includes an educational component designed to help foster the next generation of leaders. The Share the Vision program, supported by the California State Library Foundation, provides local high school students with access to speakers through exclusive preevent receptions and complimentary admission. Capacity is limited for the 2026-27 Sacramento Speakers Series. Season tickets and additional information are available at sacramentospeakers.com. More information about the Sacramento Metro Chamber is available at metrochamber.com.

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Mountain Democrat Friday, August 21, 2026 B3

Harris Center concert series includes area favorites, international flair Stacy Hanson

season’s most beloved melodies to life, delivering an unforgettable holiday experience for the whole family. Tickets on sale to be determined.

Harris Center for the Arts

OLSOM — The Harris Center for the Arts celebrates 15 years with the announcement of its 2026-27 concert series. Featuring everything from music and dance to illusion, circus arts, and classic hits, this season offers something for everyone and promises a year packed with celebration and exceptional live entertainment.

Tracy Lawrence Sept. 4 With 13 million albums sold and 18 No. 1 singles, Lawrence has solidified his status as a cornerstone of country music for more than 30 years. Tickets are on sale now.

Mariachi Herencia de México Sept. 6 The two-time Latin Grammy-nominated ensemble celebrates the timeless artistry of El Divo de Juárez, bringing his unforgettable catalog to life with passion, elegance and mariachi brilliance. Tickets are on sale now.

Shanghai Ballet: “Giselle” Oct. 18 Known for its ethereal beauty and emotional power, “Giselle” comes to life through Shanghai Ballet’s refined technique and impeccably unified ensemble. Tickets are on sale now.

Lyle Lovett and his Small Large Band Oct. 27 — Coupled with his gift for storytelling, Lovett fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues in a convention-defying manner that breaks down barriers. Tickets are on sale now.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Nov. 20 After 33 years, 11 records, more than 3,000 live shows and countless appearances in film and television, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy is showing no signs of slowing down, and is looking forward to sharing its music with old and new fans alike in 2026. Tickets are on sale now.

The Carpenters Songbook Dec. 4 With a full band and heartfelt storytelling, this concert captures the warmth, emotion and musical brilliance of The Carpenters. Tickets are on sale now.

Cirque Musica Dec. 8 Breathtaking acrobatics, soaring aerial performances and heart-pounding feats bring the

Drag

Andy Grammer Greater Than pt. II: A One Man Show Dec. 11 Multi-platinum artist Andy Grammer continues to energize, empower and bring together audiences around the world with his uplifting and honest pop anthems. Tickets are on sale now.

Garrison Keillor with Heather Masse & Richard Dworsky Dec. 14 “His shows can, for a couple of hours, transform an audience of even so-called coastal elites into a small-town community with an intimacy only radio and its podcast descendants can achieve” — Chris Barton, LA Times. Tickets on sale to be determined.

Jazz At Lincoln Center Jan. 26, 2027 Guest vocalists Kate Kortum and David Marino will debut arrangements of tunes from Broadway’s most beloved productions including “Hamilton,” “Wicked,” “South Pacific,” “West Side Story” and more in a special concert event titled World on a String: Swinging Songs of Broadway. Tickets on sale to be determined.

Riverdance April 8-11, 2027 Riverdance, the international Irish dance phenomenon, rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes and state of the art lighting, projection and motion graphics. Tickets on sale to be determined.

Classic Albums Live performs Eagles Greatest Hits April 15, 2027 Classic Albums Live takes the greatest classic rock albums and recreates them live on stage, note for note, cut for cut. Tickets on sale to be determined.

MOMIX May 10, 2027 Renowned for presenting works of astounding inventiveness and physical beauty for over 45 years, MOMIX is an internationally celebrated company of dancer-illusionists founded and directed by Moses Pendleton. Tickets on sale to be determined. To buy tickets and stay up to date on future on sale dates visit harriscenter.net/events.

Hyprov Feb. 8, 2027 Starring Colin Mochrie (“Whose Line is it Anyway?”) and Master Hypnotist Asad Mecci, the live show HYPROV, which has been called “hilarious and fascinating” by Time Out New York, combines hypnosis and improv for a one-ofa-kind comedy experience. Tickets on sale to be determined.

The Spinners March 18, 2027 Known for their smooth harmonies, memorable melodies and polished stage presence, The Spinners created a catalog of songs that remains a cornerstone of classic soul music. Tickets on sale to be determined.

Burn The Floor: Maks & Peta March 24-25, 2027 Featuring an ensemble of world-class dancers drawn from international championship ranks and leading television franchises, Burn the Floor delivers a powerful and visually striking performance that celebrates the joy, diversity and passion of dance. Tickets on sale to be determined.

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Continued from B1

LGBTQIA+ community. “People showing up for different events, they come to one and then they come to more,” Sawyer said. “Maybe they come for metal night and then they come for drag night.” That sense of openness is central to what Sawyer hopes the show provides. While the event is a gathering place for the queer community, he described The Green Room as a welcoming space where adults can enjoy different types of entertainment throughout the month. “Placerville has been a welcoming space,” Sawyer said. “There’s never been pushback from the community.” Sawyer performs as Katrina Orleans, a drag persona whose name is a reference to Hurricane Katrina. Growing up in Northwest Florida, Sawyer said hurricanes were a significant part of his childhood, and the name reflects his use of humor to address difficult subjects while also bringing attention to issues such as climate change. “I just always lived a very out-loud life,” Sawyer said. That philosophy extends beyond the stage.

Philanthropic heart of Drag Sawyer recently helped establish the El Dorado LGBTQIA Solidarity Fund, a nonprofit created to address a lack of resources for the queer and queeridentifying community in El Dorado County. He said the organization is focused on creating resources where there is currently a void and helping community members know that someone has their back. The fund’s immediate goals include increasing awareness of available resources and eventually helping establish a Placerville Pride celebration. Sawyer said the organization has already raised more than $4,000. The fund is intended to provide practical support, including assistance with necessities such as rent and groceries, while building a broader network of community resources. For Sawyer, that work demonstrates how entertainment can become a vehicle for something larger. “The mission of the nonprofit is just to create resources where there’s currently a void for the queer and queer identifying community in El

Dorado County,” he said.

Beyond the stage The philanthropic work also reaches beyond the western slope. Sawyer recently participated in a queer summer camp, Kin·Dom Camp at Zephyr Point, in the Lake Tahoe area for LGBTQIA-identifying youth ages 11-17, where he and other performers taught participants about makeup, self-expression and drag before putting on a show in which the performers were “tipped” with compliments and affirmations. “Drag is just led with philanthropy,” Sawyer said. “There’s so much to give back to.” That spirit is part of what Sawyer brings to Main Street Menagerie. Between performances, he talks with the audience about visibility, community and the resources being created locally. He also admits to not always seeking the spotlight. “I would happily step back from entertaining if there was someone that needed the spotlight more,” he said. “But really, what my favorite part is is getting to talk in between the sets and talk to the community.” For all the work surrounding the show, however, Sawyer said the heart of Main Street Menagerie remains simple: Put on a great show and give people a place where they can feel at home. “It’s entertaining,” he said. “That’s why so many people want to come.” And every month, the performers bring that philosophy to the stage at The Green Room. “It’s just absolutely incredible watching them,” Sawyer said. “And I feel so privileged to get to host them every month.” To learn more about Kin·Dom Camp at Zephyr Point visit zephyrpoint.org/ youth-programs/kin-dom-camp. To learn more about the El Dorado LGBTQIA Solidarity Fund visit eldoradosolidarityfund.org. The next installment of Main Street Menagerie — The Hottest Little Drag Show Downtown takes place Wednesday Aug. 26 and the last Wednesday of each month from 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club, 251 Main St., Placerville. For tickets and information, visit clubgreenroom. com.

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B4 Friday, August 21, 2026 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Concert Association unveils concert series from bluegrass to folk Jeannette Maynard

renew or join for the first time.

Laurie Lewis & The Right Hands

El Dorado County Community Concert Association l Dorado County Community Concert Association, one of the oldest performing arts organizations in El Dorado County, is returning with an exceptional lineup of quality live entertainment. The upcoming 202627 concert series offers a wide variety of artistic talent. Many of the artists will also perform for and interact with K-12 students on the western slope of El Dorado County as part of EDCCCA’s student outreach program. The association relies on memberships to present the concerts, and now is the time to

Chorale, a mixed choral group singing with the highest standards of musicianship, will kick off the holiday season with new and familiar music under the direction of Mariia Pechenova.

The first concert of the upcoming 202627 season opens with Laurie Lewis & The Right Hands on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at 7 p.m. Renowned American singer, musician and songwriter Laurie Lewis and her sizzling band, The Right Hands, promise a feelgood evening of toetapping bluegrass music at its best.

Boyd Meets Girl The third concert in the series is Boyd Meets Girl on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2027, at 3 p.m. Australian guitarist Rupert Boyd and American cellist Laura Metcalf bring a thrilling, eclectic repertoire of classical and contemporary music to delight audiences of all ages.

Cantare Chorale The second concert of the season, on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at 7 p.m., will feature Cantare Chorale of the Sierra Foothills. Cantare

Yu&I Duo The fourth concert in the series, on Sunday,

It’s time for e annual Happy Healthy Pets photo contest! Send in a favorite photo of your cat, dog, horse, goat, fish, hamster, lizard, chicken, guinea pig or ANY pet to: lettyb@mtdemocrat.net

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Laurie Lewis & The Right Hands — Oct. 6

The fifth concert of the season, on Sunday, March 14, 2027, at 3 p.m., brings the SAKURA Cello Quintet. SAKURA explores great music of the past through dazzling arrangements offering fresh perspectives on familiar notes and continually expands its repertoire by commissioning new works.

Cantare Chorale —Dec. 1

Folk Legacy Trio The sixth and last concert of the season is Folk Legacy Trio on Wednesday, April 28, 2027, at 7 p.m. The Folk Legacy Trio has been hailed as “the living library” of music from the great folk era, delivering songs from the ’50s-’60s with its dynamic vocals and instrumental arrangements.

Boyd Meets Girl — Jan. 24, 2027

All EDCCCA concerts are performed at Union Mine High School, Theatre at the Mine, 6530 Koki Lane in El Dorado — a perfect venue for the intimate, live performances the membership enjoys. EDCCCA is an allvolunteer, nonprofit organization. Dedicated members donate their time and talents to keep administrative and membership costs low. The association’s vision is to keep quality music alive for future generations in El Dorado County, accomplished through a variety of community and student outreach programs. To learn more, listen to a sampling of the music, obtain membership pricing or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, call (530) 409-8945 or visit eldorado communityconcerts. com.

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4:00pm Gates Open at Online

Proudly

Feb. 21, 2027, at 3 p.m., will be Yu&I Duo. Yu&I Duo’s repertoire spans the ages, from evocative renditions of early music performed on period instruments to innovative arrangements of popular music executed with the highest level of artistry.

Yu&I Duo — Feb. 21, 2027

SAKURA Cello Quintet — MArch 14, 2027

Folk Legacy Trio — April 28, 2027

Continued from B1

Association hosts a featured local artist booth each week. Learn more at edhtowncenter.com/ upcoming-events/town-centermarket.

Tasting in the Toogood Wine Cave on Saturday and Sunday beginning at 11:30 p.m. For more information visit toogoodwinery. com.

El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents A Healing Hand: The Goat Doctor of Mosquito Road from 8:30-11 a.m. For more information visit edchs.org.

Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host Rosé Slushies and Misters on the Patio Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5p.m. For more information visit shadowranch.com.

Myka Estates, 3405 Carson Court in Placerville, is having a Pinot Noir Release Party Saturday, Aug. 22 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. A menu of Smoked Salmon Canapé, Crostini with Olive Tapenade, Feta and Fresh Basil and Truffle Mac and Cheese will pair with this favorite summer wine. For reservations call (530) 497-0143. Vino Noceto in Plymouth will host Med Madness Cellar Blowout from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more at noceto.com. Dobra Zemlja Winery in Plymouth will host its 31st Anniversary Party from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit dobraz. com. Toogood Winery Tasting Room in Fairplay will host a Private Port

Ed Wilson will perform at Placerville Speedway with percussionist Dante Montes, 4-6 p.m. Poor Red’s in El Dorado will host a Toga Party from 4-7 p.m. For more information visit poorreds. com. Sentivo Vineyards tasting room in Shingle Springs will host Ben Cole Live at 5:30 p.m. Learn more at sentivovineyards.com. Hangtown Thrash presents Monthly Metal: Thrash + Math + Hardcore Metal from 6-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com. The Sacramento Zoo will host

iNaturalist Bioblitz, a new community science project at the zoo: recording the wildlife that call the zoo home from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information visit saczoo.org. West Coast Performing Arts Concerts presents ABBA The Concert Experience at 3 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net. Fairytale Town in Sacramento presents Tales and Ales Brewfest from 5-9 p.m. For more information visit fairytaletown.org. The Folsom Lake Symphony will hold Open Auditions at Folsom Lake College for principal second violin, all string sections, principal bassoon and horn 4. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony.com.

Aug. 23 The El Dorado County Certified Farmers Market takes place at El Dorado Hills Community Center from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. featuring just n See KNOW, page B7

mtdemocrat.com

Mountain Democrat

Friday, August 21, 2026

Photo of the Year winners revealed for May-June Barbara L. Steinberg California Watchable Wildlife

o many high scoring images for this bi-monthly submission period. The judges were in a heated discussion for more than two hours; a first in the 15 years of the contest. Lots of action — conflict with raptors and other feathered friends. And the one small alien-like beetle who also made the cut. It’s been shown time and time again that wildlife comes in all shapes, sizes and designs.

Brian Sak Ten-lined June Beetle, Sonora A Ten-lined June Beetle traverses a sunlit log in the Sierra foothills near Sonora. Seen from ground level, this oftenoverlooked insect takes on the presence of a giant, revealing the intricate beauty and complexity hidden beneath our feet. During my career as a fisheries and wildlife biologist, I learned to notice the small details of the natural world that many people simply walk past. That perspective continues to shape my photography today. briansakphotography.com.

Great Horned Owl & Squirrel by Kevin Lohman

Kevin Lohman Great Horned Owl & Squirrel, Natural Bridges State Beach A seven-week-old Great Horned Owl fledgling had just landed on a low branch in a pine tree when a squirrel leaped from above and knocked it from its perch. The owl fell into the grass. The same squirrel repeated the behavior three times during the morning. With a squirrel nest nearby, the attacks may have been an effort to drive a potential predator away from the area. Neither animal appeared to be injured. kevinlohman.com.

Lee Greengrass Cliff Swallows, Mountain View Two Cliff Swallows join in a battle to settle a likely territorial dispute. These two swallows literally fell from the sky directly into my camera frame. I barely had time to register what I was seeing before the swallows exited from view. It’s unknown whether they were able to disengage before hitting the ground. flickr.com/photos/49815518@N07.

Ten-lined June Beetle by Brian Sak Northern Pygmy Owl & Wood Rat by Dan Stevens

Dan Stevens Northern Pygmy Owl & Wood Rat, Markleeville I was fortunate to photograph this very hard to find small Northern Pygmy Owl along the shores of the East Carson river in Markleeville. It was hunting and flew down into the grasses and captured this wood rat. It then flew back up to the branches to show off its catch. instagram.com/danintahoe.

Cliff Swallows by Lee Greengrass

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Friday, August 21, 2026

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The art of building a life has many paths want!” “Here are the degrees that make the most money!” “Decorate your dorm room like a pro!” Yada, yada, yada. Remember Baby Mozart? Parents once heard that the right music at the right moment might give an infant a head start. Mozart is wonderful. But nobody loses the chance to love Mozart because they first hear him at 19, 42 or 70. Life does not always follow a timetable.

Susan Laird

whose gifts and interests lead them there. But not everyone has the mathThe Arts ematical gifts to become an engineer. Nor should eing good in everyone try. business is the In college, I became most fascinatthe go-to coach for my ing kind of art,” Andy engineering friends who Warhol once wrote. needed help passing their Warhol knew someEnglish writing courses. thing about art, business They, in turn, got me and refusing to stay inside through BASIC and one tidy little box. That COBOL. seems worth rememWe knew our gifts. bering during back-toUniversities also do not school season. hold a monopoly on useful education. We once called many hands-on The pressure of fields “industrial arts.” August Today we often call them A degree is not a It is the back end of skilled trades. Whatever destiny August. Kids have new the name, they deserve backpacks. College sturespect. Some college majors dents are moving into One nephew chose lead to higher salaries dorms. Parents are jugto forgo a university than others. Engineers, gling calendars, traffic, degree and built a lucracomputer scientists, tuition and worry. tive career in HVAC. nurses and other techniRight on cue, the Another completed his cal professionals often internet arrives with bachelor’s degree, then earn good incomes. advice. decided to become an Good for them, truly. “Here are the degrees EMT. Another family Those careers matter, Thethey Newsuit York Times Syndication Sales companies no longer member left Corporation college to and people 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 For Information Email: syndicate-service@nytimes.com For Release Monday, August 24, 2026

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build a career as a governess for elite families. She married a gentleman who is both a firefighter and a fire inspector, and now has chosen to take a few years away from paid work to raise their family. All good lives. All different. I will leave it to you, gentle reader, to consider how differently those choices can look years later. Some paths bring degrees. Some bring trades. Some bring flexibility. Some bring debt. Some bring security in unexpected ways.

The price of pressure There is another cost we do not discuss enough. Family expectations, social pressure and frightening headlines can push young people toward degrees and careers that look impressive on paper but do not fit the life

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

Monday, August 24, 2026

Crossword ACROSS 1 Scarecrow stuffing

31 Audio genre designed to trigger tingling, for short

6 Ralph who ran for president four times

33 Regret

11 Some HP products

35 Young Yorkie, e.g.

14 Ebb

40 Blue state?

34 Pursue 36 Better halves

15 Top-tier group

41 GPS guesses 16 Tuna variety often 43 April 15 deadline used in sashimi org. 17 On/off device 44 The last “A” in N.C.A.A.: Abbr. 19 Empty space between things 46 Cause of some rescreenings in 20 Something at an airport either end of a hammock, often 50 Like many English bogs 21 Brain tests, for short 51 Begin to grow choppers 22 “10 ___ or less” (sign at checkout) 54 Measure around the middle 24 Golf club for teeing off 55 Norse god of thunder 26 Small orchard

60 “My sympathies” … or what could be said of 17-, 27- and 46-Across 63 Rapper Tone ___ 64 Reef material 65 Winning Monopoly player’s collection 66 Had dinner, say 67 Transmits 68 Hockey feints

21 24

26 28

33 36 42

27 31

Five questions worth asking

No. 0720

Edited by Will Shortz

DOWN 1 Add some 46 47 48 49 seasoning to 50 51 52 53 2 Car in “Thelma & Louise,” informally 54 55 56 57 58 3 Wild party 4 Faith no more? 59 60 61 62 5 More than damp 64 65 63 6 Big name in baseball caps 67 68 66 7 Sacha Baron Cohen persona 57 Agricultural locale PUZZLE BY ERIC ROLLFING 27 One with Q or Z is 8 Counterpart of worth 10 points 59 Chicken ___ king dahs, in Morse 28 Item for a 37 “It’s a shame, 52 “Frida” star Salma code painter or really!” 9 And more like hairstylist ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE 53 Slowly chip away 38 Monster of that: Abbr. at Tolkiendom 29 Vehicle to and T E A M E L F S W I S S 10 Put back on the from school payroll T E R M L I M I T O X F A M 39 Very wise 54 Fancy party S T U D Y D A T E 11 What search S C O R E 30 Barely get, with 42 32-card card engine “out” S I S E G A N game P U R I S T 55 Gull relative optimization H E F T Q B E R T A S T O 45 Liberate hopes to increase 31 Someone who’s 56 Lettuce unit S E L L H U E R E I not thinking may 47 Important 12 Creature that be on this E MO J I K E Y B O A R D consideration for blends into its A.I. programmers 58 “No ___, no fuss!” surroundings E R O T I C L A C T I C 32 U.S./Soviet I J U S T W O R K H E R E 13 Drinks daintily competition of the 48 Bikini and others 61 Opponent 1950s-’60s O P S R O D S G E M 18 Prognosticator 49 Spongy ball T I M E T O M B 23 Young ’uns G R U B S 62 Unfamiliar material 35 Get-up-and-go York Times Syndication Sales Corporation F I T D E A LThe E RNew L O L A 25 Bygone staples of Avenue, New N.Y. 10018 OnlineYork, subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past B L U E Y620 Eighth A U T O S A V E S home theaters, puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). Email: syndicate-service@nytimes.com informally B O For N GInformation O S T R I K E O U T Release 2026 on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay. S P Y N A G S For S E A L Y 26 Utter delightTuesday, ReadAugust about and25, comment

Tuesday, August 25, 2026

Crossword ACROSS 1 “Chocolate” pets 5 Genome component 8 Breaks in winter weather 13 ___ vera 14 Gave a hand 16 Greet someone informally 17 “Easy-peasy!” 20 Attire for an infant 21 Awe-inspiring solar phenomenon 22 Severity 23 Urban environmental hazard 24 Pen tips 28 Clean with a rough spray 31 Blood ___ 32 Acorn producer

33 The 12 angry men in “12 Angry Men,” e.g. 34 Finish flamboyantly … like 17-, 28-, 43and 56-Across? 40 2000-09, with “the” 41 ___ and haw 42 Jumbo 43 Colorful taffy candy brand 49 Laptop brand 50 Tons 51 Not having quite enough money 53 “Really?” 55 Backside 56 2023 doubleplatinum Chappell Roan record 60 Toyota hybrid 61 Plumbing fixture found under the sink

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE S T R A W N A D E R P C S E L I T E A H I A B A T E G A P L I G H T S W I T C H E E G S I T E M S T R E E D R I V E R G R O V E S C R A B B L E T I L E A S M R R U E S E E K S P O U S E S WO E P U P I R S A S S N E T A S P O C K E T C H A N G E P E A T Y T E E T H E G I R T H T H O R F A R M I F E E L F O R Y O U A L A C O R A L D E E D S L O C S E N D S D E K E S A T E

62 Things assayers assay 63 Reactions akin to “OMG!” 64 Pigs’ digs 65 Fill up DOWN 1 Hard work 2 Morissette with the 1996 hit “Ironic” 3 Corner store 4 Fall, e.g. 5 Reading room 6 Japanese city that’s home to the Chinese Sofukuji Temple 7 Subjects of some Billboard charts 8 Old Russian ruler 9 Cuban dance style 10 Actress Edebiri 11 “Which person are you referring to?” 12 ___ card 14 A standard one has 21 pips 15 Fortune-telling deck 18 Aviary inhabitant 19 Hound 25 It’s “pumped” by bodybuilders 26 Town 27 Texting format, in brief 29 Many internet spammers 30 Rule 31 Teacher for a day

Edited by Will Shortz 1

13 17

8 15

18 21

23 28

Perhaps we should worry less about which degree “wins” and ask better questions. What are your gifts? What do you love doing? How could you earn a living from it? What training do you truly need? And what can support you while the dream grows? A side job is not failure. Neither is an apprenticeship, trade school, community college or changing direction. Neither is college. The point is not to choose the path someone else praises. It is to understand why you are choosing yours.

The ultimate business Artists understand this, too. Go to the library and read about Andy Warhol. Study his art. Better yet, see it in person. But also study his

Public domain image

Artist Andy Warhol with his dachshund, Archie, at the Factory in 1974. Warhol built a life around his gifts, blending creativity, business, curiosity and personal freedom. His example reminds us that success is not one-size-fits-all. The real art may be in building a life that fits who we are. business. Warhol understood that creativity and commerce could live together. In the end, each of us is building a business of sorts. That business is our life. We need to keep it solvent. We need food, housing, savings and some security. But salary is only one line on the ledger. A good life may also need purpose, people we love, curiosity, freedom, usefulness and room to change. No 18-year-old needs to have the whole enterprise mapped out before the first day of class. And no 40-, 50-, or 60-yearold has to keep following a road simply because it once seemed like the right one. There is no single approved business plan for a successful life. Success is something each of us must consider, and define, for ourselves. Warhol famously said, “Good business is the best art.” Perhaps our most important business is the life we build. What would it mean to build yours well? Send your event for consideration in Susan’s column to slaird@handywriting.com.

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50 53

32 34

No. 0721

they want. Last week, I met a highly successful ophthalmologist. By the usual measures, he chose one of those coveted careers: education, prestige and a strong income. Then he looked at my life outside medicine. I was once pre-med myself. “Maybe you got lucky,” he said. “Decades later and I am still in debt to loans.” That stayed with me. Medicine can be a wonderful calling. For the person who loves it, it can offer purpose, service, challenge and a lifetime of meaningful work. But prestige is not purpose, and pressure is a poor career counselor. The wrong vocation, or one that slowly becomes a source of resentment, can make even an impressive career feel heavy. If you discover years later that the ladder you built is leaning against the wrong wall, you can move it. It is never too late. But the price may be higher.

Bus. Lic. #053457

Insured

59 61

62 64

PUZZLE BY KENNETH CORTES

33 Part of a doorframe 34 Tortilla chip dip, informally 35 Shrek, e.g. 36 “Wow, real mature” 37 Sport-___ 38 “Ow! Watch it!” 39 “___/she” (chocolate bar’s pronouns in a corny joke) 40 In the manner of

43 Power-saving computer mode 44 They’re often made at weddings 45 One may accept the terms and conditions 46 Heavyweight beasts, familiarly 47 Mexican state bordering Chihuahua 48 Hot pot holder 50 Novelist Rand

52 Backcomb 54 Cat’s warning 55 Old-school term for “cool” 56 World of Warcraft, e.g., in brief 57 Long period 58 Put down 59 Salary

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Know

Mountain Democrat Friday, August 21, 2026 B7

Continued from B4

picked produce sold directly by the farmers. Learn more at eldoradofarmersmarket.com. Sierra Vista Winery will host Sunday Brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com. Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host Live Music with Michael Rock, 1-4 p.m. For more information visit shadowranch. com. Golden Road Gathering Youth Artist Showcase will take place, 2-4 p.m. and Suburban Skies, Beatles Tribute will perform 6-8 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode will host a Bingo Fundraiser from 5-7:30 p.m. at 4440 South Shingle Road, Shingle Springs. For more information visit animaloutreach. net.

Aug. 24 The Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center at 2675 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines will host Yoga at 9:30 a.m. For more information visit pollockpinesca.org. All ages Monday Open Mic Night hosted by Grayson Howard will take place, 6-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Aug. 25

pollockpinesca.org.

Marshall Gold Discovery Park Association will host its Coloma Community Market from 5-8 p.m. at the North Beach at Marshall Gold. A celebration of local food, art and community in historical Coloma, featuring more than 25 vendors selling fresh produce and handmade goods. Attendees can enjoy food trucks, local beer and wine, and free live music, parking and park admission. For more information visit golddiscoveryparkassociation. org.

Now

The Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center at 2675 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines will host Bingo Night at 5 p.m. For more information visit

Public Notices  FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0796 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MASON LUMA POOL & SPA, located at 3054 Stanford Ln, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Mason Luma Pool & Spa LLC, 3054 Stanford Ln, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Juan M Rodriguez Jr JUAN M RODRIGUEZ JR, MANAGING MEMBER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/27/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16501 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0795 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: WOMENS LOTUS GARDEN, located at 484 Pleasant Valley Rd #20 B, Diamond Springs, CA 95619/Mailing Address: 4803 Cedar Ravine Rd, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Darlene Rosalee Hobbs, 4803 Cedar Ravine Rd, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 07/21/2018 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Darlene Hobbs DARLENE HOBBS, PRESIDENT I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/27/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16502 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0792 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ASPEN & OAK FARM, located at 3900 Aspen Lane, Shingle Springs, CA 95682

Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: 1. Stephanie R Johnston, 3900 Aspen Lane, Shingle Springs, CA 95682, 2. Michael D Johnston, 3900 Aspen Lane, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 This business is conducted by a Married Couple The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/01/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Stephanie Johnston STEPHANIE JOHNSTON I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/27/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16503 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0788 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SATTVAROMA, located at 2016 Lamego Way, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Sattva Wellness LLC, 2016 Lamego Way, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Devi Singh Karnawat DEVI SINGH KARNAWAT, MANAGER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/23/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16504 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0740 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MAD MACS ROAD SERVICE REPAIR, located at 7166 Maidu Dr, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Micah A Cordero, 7166 Maidu Dr, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable

Olde Coloma Theatre presents “The Watered-Down Saloon” or “A Trip Out West” through Aug. 23. For more information visit oldecolomatheatre.com. Tickets are available for Ag in the Classroom’s 20 Mile Taste which takes place Aug. 29 from 4-7 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards, 2569 Larsen Drive in Camino. For more information visit agintheclass-edc.org. Placerville Arts Association is holding an Open Call to Artists for its 60th National Mother Lode Art Exhibition to take place Nov. 5-21. Call open through Sept. 16. For more information visit placervillearts.com.

Tickets are available for Mother Lode Rehabilitation’s third annual All in for MORE Poker Tournament to take place Oct. 16 at 5 p.m. For more information visit morerehab.org. Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Hot August Days through Sept. 20. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com. Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “Wolf Play” through Aug. 29. For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre. org. Main Street Theatre Works at the Kennedy Mine Amphitheatre in Jackson presents “Wonder of the World” through Sept. 5. For tickets and more information visit mstw.org.

Folsom History Museum presents Ride ‘Em Cowboy – the Folsom Rodeo Exhibition through Jan. 4, 2027. Learn more at folsomhistory.org. Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Gleefully Askew: A Gladys Nilsson Retrospective through Nov. 29; Suzanne Adan — I’m No Spring Chicken through Oct. 11; Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030; and Hot Takes: New Acquisitions in Glass through Feb 14, 2027. For more information visit crockerart.org. The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco present Treasures of the Pharaohs. Learn more at famsf.org.

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Signature of Registrant: /s/ Micah Cordero MICAH CORDERO, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/09/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16505 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0785 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HOMESTEAD BAKES, located at 6300 Homestead Dr, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Michele Dennis, 6300 Homestead Dr, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 07/18/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Michele Leslie Dennis MICHELE LESLIE DENNIS, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/23/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16506 T.S. NO.: 2026-00245-CA-REV A.P.N.:109-350-013-000 PROPERTY ADDRESS: 3000 FLYING C COURT, CAMERON PARK, CA 95682 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE PURSUANT TO CIVIL CODE § 2923.3(a) and (d), THE SUMMARY OF INFORMATION REFERRED TO BELOW IS NOT ATTACHED TO THE RECORDED COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT BUT ONLY TO THE COPIES PROVIDED TO THE TRUSTOR.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 04/11/2008. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR

PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. Trustor: WILLIAM N. MOORE AND DONNA R. MOORE, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS Duly Appointed Trustee: Western Progressive, LLC Deed of Trust Recorded 04/16/2008 as Instrument No. 2008-001790700 and of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of El Dorado County, California, Date of Sale: 09/08/2026 at 10:00 AM Place of Sale: MAIN ENTRANCE TO COUNTY COURTHOUSE 495 MAIN STREET, PLACERVILLE, CA 95667 Estimated amount of unpaid balance, reasonably estimated costs and other charges: $1,206,768.86 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE THE TRUSTEE WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, A SAVINGS ASSOCIATION OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE: All right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described as: More fully described in said Deed of Trust. Street Address or other common designation of real property: 3000 FLYING C COURT, CAMERON PARK, CA 95682 A.P.N.: 109-350-013-000 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $1,206,768.86. Note: Because the Beneficiary reserves the right to bid less than the total debt owed, it is possible that at the time of the sale the opening bid may be less than the total debt. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The beneficiary of the Deed of Trust has executed and delivered to the undersigned a written request to commence foreclosure, and the undersigned caused a Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on this property. Please be advised that the trustee may require entity or trust bidders at this trustee’s sale to provide information, documentation and/ or certification of the vesting instructions and the data required to be reported pursuant to FinCEN regulations effective for transfers of residential real property to covered transferees on or after March 1, 2026. The required information must be provided to the trustee before a trustee’s deed upon sale will be issued for covered transfers. Additional information

regarding these regulations and the required transferee information and certifications can be found at https://www.federalregister.gov/ documents/2024/08/29/2024-1919 8/anti-money-launderingregulations-for-residential-realestate-transfers and https://www. fincen.gov/rre-faqs#d_5 NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (866)-960-8299 or visit this Internet Web site https://www.altisource. com/loginpage.aspx using the file number assigned to this case 2026-00245-CA-REV. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction, if conducted after January 1, 2021, pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (855)-976-3916, or visit this internet website https:// tracker.auction.com/sb1079, using the file number assigned to this case 2026-00245-CA-REV to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid, by remitting the funds and affidavit described in Section 2924m(c) of the Civil Code, so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Date: July 27, 2026 Western Progressive, LLC, as Trustee for beneficiary C/o 1500 Palma Drive, Suite 238 Ventura, CA 93003 Sale Information Line: (866) 960-8299 https://www.altisource.com/ loginpage.aspx ___________________________ Trustee Sale Assistant **This address must be used for the required delivery by certified or overnight mail of postponement requests as specified pursuant to Civil Code section 2924f(e). 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16526 APN: 073-411-017-000 TS NO.: 26-12597CA TSG ORDER NO.: 260156313-CA-VOI NOTICE OF TRUSTEE SALE UNDER DEED OF TRUST YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED AUGUST 31, 2023. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. Affinia Default Services, LLC, as the duly appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded September 8, 2023 as Document No.: 20230025304 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of El Dorado County, California, executed by: Denae Michele Hefley, a single woman, as Trustor, will be sold AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER for cash (payable in full at time of sale by cash, a cashier’s check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). All right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said deed of trust in the property situated in said county and state, and as more fully described in the above referenced deed of trust. Sale Date: September 2, 2026 Sale Time: 10:00 AM

Sale Location: At the Main Street entrance to the County Courthouse at 495 Main Street, Placerville, CA 95667 2 File No.:2612597CA The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 3348 Secret Lake Trail, Cool, CA 95614. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made in an “AS IS” condition, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to-wit: $376,341.14 (Estimated). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. It is possible that at the time of sale the opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call, (916) 9390772 for information regarding the trustee’s sale or visit this internet website, www.nationwideposting. com, for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, T.S.# 26-12597CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (916) 939-0772, or visit this internet website www. nationwideposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case 26-12597CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. 3 File No.:26-12597CA If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. For Pre Sale Information Log On To: www.nationwideposting.com or Call: (916) 939-0772. For Post Sale Results please visit www. affiniadefault.com or Call (866) Legal notice continued on the next page

B8 Friday, August 21, 2026 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Public Notices  932-0360 Dated: July 29, 2026 By: Carlos Quezada Foreclosure Associate Affinia Default Services, LLC 301 E. Ocean Blvd., Suite 1720 Long Beach, CA 90802 (833) 290-7452 NPP0492395 To: MOUNTAIN DEMOCRAT & PLACERVILLE TIMES 08/07/2026, 08/14/2026, 08/21/2026 16536 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF JOEL DAVID PITTO CASE NO. 26PR0080 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of JOEL PITTO. A PETITION for Probate has been filed by JENNIFER MAESTRETTI in the Superior Court of California, County of El Dorado. THE PETITION for probate requests that JENNIFER MAESTRETTI be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: September 21, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 9 at 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner: JENNIFER MAESTRETTI 1964 American River Trail Cool, CA 95614 (209) 304-9522 16537 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0816 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BATHYLOGGER, located at 6039 Tanner Way, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: West Coast Import Export Inc, 6039 Tanner Way, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 This business is conducted by a Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 07/27/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Timothy Tamplin TIMOTHY TAMPLIN, OFFICER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/04/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 16538 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0815 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 1. SALT CREEK OUTPOST, 2. SALT CREEK, 3. SALT CREEK CAFE, 4. SALT CREEK BAKERY, 5. SALT CREEK PROVISIONS, located at 2966 CA-49, Suite B, Cool, CA 95614 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Rosies by Juniper LLC, 2966 CA-49, Suite B, Cool, CA 95614 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State

of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 08/04/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Jennifer Maestretti JENNIFER MAESTRETTI, MANAGING MEMBER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/04/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 16539 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV2073 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Briana Dency Cueva filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: BRIANA DENCY CUEVA Proposed name: BRIANA DENCY CUEVA GAVINO 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: OCTOBER 2, 2026, 8:30 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682. 3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on JULY 30, 2026. /s/ Hana Balfour Judge of the Superior Court 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 16540 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV2096 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Lexie Roxanne Henneberry filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: LEXIE ROXANNE HENNEBERRY Proposed name: LEXIE ROXANNE JUSTRICH 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: OCTOBER 2, 2026, 8:35 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682. 3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on AUGUST 3, 2026. /s/ Hana Balfour Hana Balfour, Judge of the Superior Court 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 16541 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0813 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: CUSTOM EMBROIDERY CONCEPTS, located at 5714 Pleasant Valley Road, El Dorado, CA 95623 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Nancy R Bandy, 5714 Pleasant Valley Road, El Dorado, CA 95623 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 03/01/1997 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Nancy Ray Bandy NANCY R BANDY, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county

• E-mail your public notice to legals@mtdemocrat.net • Be sure to include your name and phone number

clerk of El Dorado County on 08/03/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 16542 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0812 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RAY’S SELF STORAGE LLC, located at 5714 Pleasant Valley Road, El Dorado, CA 95623 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Rays Self Storage, LLC, 5714 Pleasant Valley Road, El Dorado, CA 95623 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 11/01/2013 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Nancy Ray Bandy NANCY RAY BANDY, MANAGER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/03/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 16543 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF PATRICK C. O’BRIEN CASE NO. 26PR0080 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of PATRICK C. O’BRIEN. A PETITION for Probate has been filed by JOSHUA O’BRIEN in the Superior Court of California, County of El Dorado. THE PETITION for probate requests that JOSHUA O’BRIEN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: August 31, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in Dept. 9 at 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Petitioner: JOSHUA O’BRIEN 1355 El Camino Real, Apt. 407 Redwood City, CA 94063 (916) 873-4171 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16544

DIVORCE SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION AND MAILING Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Docket No. SU26D1088DR Angela Eaton vs. Mark Rivera Suffolk Probate and Family Court 24 New Chardon Street Boston, MA 02114 To the Defendant: The Plaintiff has filed a Complaint for Divorce requesting that the Court grant a divorce for Irretrievable Breakdown The Complaint is on file at the Court. An Automatic Restraining Order has been entered in this matter preventing you from taking any action which would negatively impact the current financial status of either party. SEE Supplemental Probate Court Rule 411. You are hereby summoned and required to serve upon: David Edward Cherny, Esq. Atwood and Cherny PC 199 Wells Ave Newton, MA 02459 your answer, if any, on or before 09/02/2026. If you fail to do so, the court will proceed to the hearing and adjudication of this action. You are also required to file a copy of your answer, if any, in the office of the Register of this Court. /s/ David E. Cherny, Esq. Register of Probate WITNESS, Hon. Janine D Rivers, First Justice of this Court. Date: July 30, 2026 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 16547 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0843 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: AR EXECUTIVE SERVICES, located at 610 Pearl Place Apt B, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Antonio Ruiz, 610 Pearl Place Apt B, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Antonio Ruiz ANTONIO RUIZ I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/10/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16563 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0844 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 8 GLOBAL CONSULTANCY, located at 1100 Terracina Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Harman K Mann, 1100 Terracina Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 08/06/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Harman Mann HARMAN MANN I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/10/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16564 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0842 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: FUNDAMENTAL FLO, located at 4880 Canfield

Circle, Cameron Park, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: John E Florance, 4880 Canfield Circle, Cameron Park, CA 95682 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 08/10/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ John Florance JOHN FLORANCE I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/10/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16565 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0827 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NATURES TOUCH, located at 8315 Bramble Road, Pollock Pines, CA 95726 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Jodi E Diaz Recurt, 8315 Bramble Road, Pollock Pines, CA 95726 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Jodi Diaz-Recurt JODI DIAZ-RECURT I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/06/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16566 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0839 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SHEILA’S PLACE, located at 2690 La Canada Court, Cameron Park, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Sheila Swanson, 2690 La Canada Court, Cameron Park, CA 95682 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 08/10/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Sheila Swanson SHEILA SWANSON I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/10/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16567

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0838 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: WARRIOR CONCEALMENT, located at 3081 Alhambra Dr Ste 104, Cameron Park, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: WC Perfomance Concepts LLC, 3081 Alhambra Dr Ste 104, Cameron Park, CA 95682 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Roy Dickinson ROY DICKINSON, MANAGER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/10/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16568 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0801 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BEAR CREEK QUARRY, located at 4060 Bear Creek Rd, Georgetown, CA 95634/ Mailing Address: PO Box 34, Georgetown, CA 95634 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Butte Equipment Rentals Inc, PO Box 34, Georgetown, CA 95634 This business is conducted by a Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 10/01/1995 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Michelle Liddicoat MICHELLE L I D D I C O AT, SECRETARY I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/29/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16569 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0802 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MARLEYS SMALL TOWN SCOOPS, located at 3081 Evergreen Court, Georgetown, CA 95634 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Marlus W Shaw, 3081 Evergreen Court, Georgetown, CA 95634 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 07/26/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Marlus Shaw MARLUS SHAW I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/29/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT Legal notice continued on the next page

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Public Notices  PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16574 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0837 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PARALLEL FORTY PRESS, located at 3023 Wilkinson Rd, Cameron Park, CA 95682/ Mailing Address: PO Box 1388, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Garnett Techventures, LLC, 300 N Center St Unit 6, Casper, WY 82601 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: WY The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Kenneth E. Garnett KENNETH E. GARNETT, MANAGING MEMBER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/07/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16575 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0846 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 1. EL DORADO POOL CLEANING, 2. EL DORADO WINDOW CLEANING, 3. EL DORADO PRESSURE WASHING, 4. EL DORADO TRAILER RENTALS, located at 5105 Monte Vista Way, Camino, CA 95709 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: El Dorado Services Group, Inc, 5105 Monte Vista Way, Camino, CA 95709 This business is conducted by a Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Brian Pounds BRIAN POUNDS, PRESIDENT I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/11/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 16576 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to satisfy Extra Space’s lien, by selling personal property belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 4501 Latrobe Road Eldorado Hills, CA 95762 on 09/01/2026 at 10am Joseph Harrison, Crystal Stuckey, Keri Harborth, Michael Sutter The auction will be listed and advertised on www. storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. 8/21 16580

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE FILE NO.: 24-222681 A.P.N.: 093-110-051-000 PROPERTY ADDRESS.: 5632 MOUNT AUKUM ROAD, PLACERVILLE, CA 95667. NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED (The above statement is made pursuant to CA Civil Code Section 2923.3(d) (1). The Summary will be provided to Trustor(s) and/or vested owner(s) only, pursuant to CA Civil Code Section 2923.3(d)(2).) YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED NOVEMBER 07, 2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale until funds become available to the payee or endorsee as a matter of right. The property offered for sale excludes all funds held on account by the property receiver, if applicable. The property described heretofore is being sold “as is”. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The Beneficiary’s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor(s): JOAN D. HASSON, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN Duly Appointed Trustee: Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid and Crane, LLP DEED OF TRUST Recorded on November 19, 2007 at Instrument No 2007-0071396-00 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of EL DORADO County, California Sale Date: 9/15/2026 Sale Time: 10:00 AM Sale Location: At the Main Street entrance to the County Courthouse, 495 Main Street, Placerville, CA 95667 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $430,569.76 (Estimated) Street Address or other common designation of real property: 5632 MOUNT AUKUM ROAD, PLACERVILLE, CA 95667. See Legal Description - Exhibit “A” attached here to and made a part hereof. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDER(S): If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER(S): The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (866-5394173) or visit the website http:// www.servicelinkauction.com, using the file number assigned to this case 24-222681. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT(S): Effective January 1, 2021, you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to California Civil Code Section 2924m. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able

Mountain Democrat Friday, August 21, 2026 B9

• E-mail your public notice to legals@mtdemocrat.net • Be sure to include your name and phone number

to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48-hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (866-539-4173) or visit the website http://www. servicelinkauction.com, using the file number assigned to this case 24-222681 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15-days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45-days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder”, you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid and Crane, LLP Date: 7/30/2026 Christine McPhatter Authorized Signatory 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Phone: 858997-1304 SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ONLINE AT HTTP://WWW.SERVICELINKASAP. COM FOR AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL (866-684-2727) The above-named trustee may be acting as a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained may be used for that purpose. CA DPFI Debt Collection License # 11461-99; NMLS ID 2591653. To the extent your original obligation was discharged or is subject to an automatic stay of bankruptcy under Title 11 of the United States Code, this notice is for compliance and/or informational purposes only and does not constitute an attempt to collect a debt or to impose personal liability for such obligation. However, a secured party retains rights under its security instrument, including the right to foreclose its lien. LEGAL DESCRIPTION EXHIBIT A PARCEL 1, AS SAID PARCEL IS SHOWN ON THAT CERTAIN PARCEL MAP ENTITLED “A PORTION OF THE S. 1/2 OF SECTION 5, T. 9 N., R. 12 E., M.D.M.” FILED JANUARY 6, 1995, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF EL DORADO COUNTY IN BOOK 45 OF PARCEL MAPS, AT PAGE 25. TOGETHER WITH AN EASEMENT FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS OVER THE EXISTING DRIVEWAY AND ROAD 25 FEET IN WIDTH FOR RIVER ACCESS, SAID EASEMENT IS LOCATED IN A NORTHWESTERLY PORTION OF THAT PORTION OF PARCEL 2 OF SAID PARCEL MAP LYING SOUTHERLY OF MT. AUKUM ROAD. ALSO TOGETHER WITH AND RESERVING THEREFROM AN EASEMENT FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS OVER THE EXISTING DRIVEWAY 25 FEET IN WIDTH THE CENTERLINE OF WHICH IS THAT PORTION OF THE WESTERLY BOUNDARY OF SAID PARCEL 2 LYING NORTHERLY OF MT. AUKUM ROAD AND CITED ON SAID PARCEL MAP AS N 03°13’ 28” EAST, 106.63 FEET (TABULATION NO. 47). THE ABOVE EASEMENTS ARE TO BE APPURTENANT CO SAID PARCEL 1 OF SAID PARCEL MAP. ALSO RESERVING UNTO THE GRANTOR NAMED HEREIN, AN EASEMENT TOR INGRESS AND EGRESS 25 FEET IN WIDTH OVER THE EXISTING DRIVEWAY LOCATED NORTHWESTERLY OF, AND NEAR AN ANGLE POINT IN THE SOUTHEASTERLY BOUNDARY OF THAT PORTION OF SAID PARCEL 1 OF SAID PARCEL MAP LYING NORTHERLY OF MT. AUKUM ROAD, SAID ANGLE POINT IS FORMED BY THE FOLLOWING TWO COURSES AND DISTANCES: (1) N 85° 47’ 45” EAST, 442.87 FEET, AND (2) N 00° 46’ 49” WEST, 200.00 FEET, AS SHOW ON SAID MAP. FURTHER RESERVING UNTO THE GRANTOR NAMED HEREIN, A SECONDARY EMERGENCY ACCESS EASEMENT 25 FEET IN WIDTH OVER THE EXISTING ROAD AT ITS PRESENT LOCATION ON THE REALTY HEREIN CONVEYED. THE ABOVE RESERVATIONS ARE TO BE APPURTENANT TO SAID PARCEL 2 OF SAID PARCEL MAP. A-4882247 08/21/2026, 08/28/2026, 09/04/2026 8/21, 8/28, 9/4 16583 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0861 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: QUIET MIND COUNSELING, located at 6180 Enterprise Dr, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Sara A McDaniel, 6180 Enterprise Dr, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 08/16/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Sara McDaniel SARA MCDANIEL, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/17/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11 16589 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0863 The following person(s) is/ are doing business as: EMB CONSTRUCTION, located at 3636 Meder Rd, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Eric M Beuckens, 3636 Meder Rd, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Eric Beuckens ERIC BEUCKENS, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/17/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11 16590 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0871 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MADISON & SONS, located at 4261 Sunset Lane, Suite 100, Shingle Springs, CA 95682/ Mailing Address: 4261 Sunset Lane, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Future CEO LLC, 4261 Sunset Lane, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 08/17/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Stephen Riley STEPHEN RILEY, CEO I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 08/18/2026 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11 16591 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 26CV2144 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Logan James Henneberry filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: LOGAN JAMES HENNEBERRY Proposed name: LOGAN JAMES JUSTRICH 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: OCTOBER 2, 2026, 8:30 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682. 3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on

AUGUST 6, 2026. /s/ Hana Balfour Judge of the Superior Court 8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11 16592 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 26CV2223 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Noell Sierra Crummett and Colton Raine Downs filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: HENRY JAMES DOWNS Proposed name: HENRY OLIVER DOWNS 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: OCTOBER 2, 2026, 8:35 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682. 3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on AUGUST 17, 2026. /s/ Hana Balfour Judge of the Superior Court 8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11 16593 NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the County of El Dorado, as lead agency, has prepared a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) for the below referenced Project. The Draft MND analyzes the potential environmental effects associated with the proposed Project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This Notice of Intent (NOI) is to provide responsible agencies and other interested parties with notice of the availability of the Draft MND and solicit comments and concerns regarding the environmental issues associated with the proposed Project. LEAD AGENCY: County of El Dorado, 2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville, CA 95667 CONTACT: County Planner: Craig Osborn, 530-621-5697 PROJECT: P24-0006/Collette Parcel Map PROJECT LOCATION: The property, identified by Assessor’s Parcel Number 069-130-010, consisting of 20.01 acres, is located on the north side of Valley View Road between Walnut Drive and Bainbridge Avenue, approximately .10 miles of the intersection with Lamplighter Ln., in the Rescue area, Supervisorial District 4. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This Project is a Tentative Parcel Map that would create three (3) residential parcels from an existing 20.01-acre parcel as follows: 10.00 acres (Parcel 1/RE-5), 5.00 acres (Parcel 2/RE-5), and 5.01 acres (Parcel 3/RE-5) (Exhibit F). The property is currently developed with a house, swimming pool, ground mount solar panels, and accessory structures. No additional development for this parcel is proposed as part of this Project. Access to Parcel 1 will be from an existing access road that connects to Valley View Road. Access to Proposed Parcel 2 and Parcel 3 will be from a proposed 30-foot wide private road that connects

to Valley View Road (a countymaintained road). The subject parcel is zoned Residential Estate - Five-Acre Minimum (RL-10) and is consistent with the General Plan land use designation of Low Density Residential (LDR). PUBLIC REVIEW PERIOD: The public review period for the Draft MND set forth in CEQA for this project is 30 days, beginning August 24, 2026, and ending September 22, 2026. Any written comments must be received within the public review period. Copies of the Draft MND for this project may be reviewed and/or obtained in the County of El Dorado Planning and Building Department, 2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville, CA 95667, during normal business hours or online at https://edc-trk.aspgov. com/etrakit/. In order to view attachments, please login or create an E-Trakit account and search the project name or application file number in the search box. Please direct your comments to: County of El Dorado, Planning and Building Department, County Planner: Craig Osborn, 2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville, CA 95667 or EMAIL: planning@ edcgov.us PUBLIC HEARING: A public hearing before the Zoning Administrator has not been scheduled. Once that date has been determined, a public notice will be issued. COUNTY OF EL DORADO PLANNING AND BUILDING DEPARTMENT KAREN L. GARNER, Director August 21, 2026 8/21 16595 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF BULK SALE (SEC 6104,6105 U.C.C.) ESCROW NO. 29091SL Notice is hereby given to creditors of the within named seller that a bulk sale is about to be made of the assets described below. The name and business address of the seller is: WORLD TRAVELER COFFEE ROASTERS LLC, 477 GUADALUPE DRIVE, EL DORADO HILLS, CALIFORNIA 95762 The location in California of the chief executive office of the seller is: SAME As listed by the seller, all other business names and addresses used by the seller within three years before the date such list was sent or delivered to the buyer are: 106 N SUNRISE AVE, STE C7, ROSEVILLE, CA 95661 AND 1151 GALLERIA BLVD, STE 1163, ROSEVILLE, CA 95678 The name and mailing address of the buyer is: S RESTAURANTS, LLC, 1631 K STREET, SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95814 The assets to be sold are described in general as: INVENTORY, FIXED ASSETS (FURNITURE, FIXTURES AND EQUIPMENT), GOODWILL, LEASEHOLD IMPROVEMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESS ASSETS and are located at: 500 J STREET, SUITE 165, SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 95814 The business name used by the seller at all locations is: WORLD TRAVELER COFFEE ROASTERS The anticipated date of the bulk sale is: SEPTEMBER 10, 2025 at: CRESCENT LAND TITLE COMPANY, 890 3RD ST, CRESCENT CITY, CA 95531. The bulk sale is subject to California Uniform Commercial Code Section 6106.2. If so subject, the name and address of the person with whom claims may be filed is: CRESCENT LAND TITLE COMPANY, 890 3RD ST, CRESCENT CITY, CA 95531. And the last date for filing claims shall be SEPTEMBER 9, 2025, which is the business day before the sale date specified above. Dated: AUGUST 13, 2026 Buyer: S RESTAURANTS, LLC Seller: WORLD TRAVELER COFFEE ROASTERS LLC 5383745-S-PP MOUNTAIN DEMOCRAT 8/21/26 8/21 16596

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND PRE-ADOPTION SUMMARY OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 130, SECTION 130.69.140 – TERM AND EXPIRATION OF THE CALDOR FIRE RESILIENCY AND REBUILDING ORDINANCE The Planning Commission for the County of El Dorado will hold a public hearing at its regularly scheduled meeting on September 10, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the Planning Commission Hearing Room. 2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville, CA 95667, to consider and vote on a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors regarding a proposed ordinance to amend Article 6, Title 130, Chapter 130.69 – Caldor Fire Resiliency and Rebuilding Ordinance, of the El Dorado County Ordinance Code, amending Section 130.69-140 – Term and Expiration, to extend the expiration date of this Chapter to October 1, 2029. The Planning Commission will also consider and vote on whether to recommend that the ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080(b) (4) (specific actions necessary to prevent or mitigate an emergency); CEQA Guidelines Section 15269(c) (specific actions necessary to prevent or mitigate an emergency); and CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b) (3) (common sense exemption). The meeting shall be held both in person and virtually. Instructions for participating in the meeting, additional information on this matter, and copies of associated documents, including the full and complete copy of the full text of the proposed ordinance can be found at https://eldorado.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. The full text of the proposed ordinance is also available upon request to the Clerk of the Board. All persons interested are invited to write their comments to the Planning Commission in advance of the hearing. If you challenge the proposed ordinance in court, you may be limited to raising only those items you or someone else raised at the public meeting described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. Any written correspondence should be directed to the Planning Commission at 2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville, CA 95667 or via e-mail: planning@ edcgov.us. COUNTY OF EL DORADO PLANNING COMMISSION KAREN L. GARNER, Executive Secretary August 21, 2026 8/21 16594

B10 Friday, August 21, 2026 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

CALIFORNIA RAMBLING Barbara Steinberg

Special to the Mountain Democrat Need a getaway? Think the three Rs:Renew, Restore, Rejuvenate. Many destinations fill the bill, but few deliver as much as Berkeley. While the city still holds tight to its flower power lineage, it has evolved into a culinary and cultural sanctuary. Many of its most endearing landmarks – ideal for any overnight or weekend retreat – love the three Rs. So come down from the foothills or up from the flats of the valley for a bit of urban renewal. If your heart’s desire is to live like a king or queen, the Berkeley City Club is your getaway kingdom. Originally a women’s club, it has been lovingly revamped and is part of Historic Hotels of America. Not today’s boutique, it’s all about the quiet elegance of bygone

times. A Julia Morgan design, affectionately known as “The Little Castle,” it’s the closest you’ll ever come to a night at her legendary Hearst Castle. Only members and guests indulge in the indoor heated swimming pool, reminiscent of the bigger castle’s famous Roman Pool. Guest rooms are cozy and TV-free. Common areas beckon you to unwind, and garden courtyards offer meditative space. Bring a good book. A good friend. A lover. Come solo. Check online for special events and theatrical productions performed at the City Club. Kelley, a first-time BCC guest, commented, “I love the history! It has a wonderful feel. The bonuses: the rate includes breakfast, and it’s a great location!” Yes, a great location with a multitude of diversions. How to decide? Remember, it’s

all about urban renewal. On nearby Addison Street, the Arts District’s innovative tenants include the Berkeley Repertory Theatre and JazzSchool. Famed for traditional music, the 50-plus The Freight is the spirit of renewal. In 2009, the then Freight & Salvage unveiled a renovated, state-ofthe-art, LEED Green venue. Extensive use of recycled wood and a living roof turned a 70-year-old garage into a work of art. Built for comfort, the 440-seat F&S features the finest acoustical music more than 250 nights a year. Blocks away, Hotel Shattuck Plaza is 116 years old and the poster-child for renewal. Berkeley’s original hotel has been brought back to life with the perfect blend of 21st-century meets 1910, offering a comfortable and contemporary experience. Curate a special date night to

include a show at The Freight (just steps away) or, seasonally, book The Greek Theatre package. You won’t starve in Berkeley. Options on North Shattuck’s Gourmet Ghetto are dizzying. Saul’s Deli is true New York-style with locavore flair – yes, they buy local! These gastronomic delights aren’t in the Sierra foothills. A bowl of kosher pickles will satiate until orders arrive. Ruminate over house-made sodas – celery, lime, ginger, cream, and black cherry – a delightful change from high fructose brands. Indulge in half a Niman Ranch corned beef on Acme rye bread with a side of potato pancake, and Saul’s Blintz for dessert. OMG! Next door, Masse’s Pastries creations are exquisite. In a revitalized 1916era movie theater, Epicurious Garden is the “Rolls-Royce of take-

Photos courtesy of Barbara L Steinberg

Takara Sake’s remarkable tasting room is one-of-a-kind. out.” Chocolate lovers rejoice! Chocolaterie is your new drug of choice. Take a course in Sake 101. Inside an unremarkable industrial building (one-time dairy) at the end of Addison Street, Takara Sake’s remarkable tasting room is one-ofa-kind. The “bar” is constructed of Douglas fir and granite-finished tile. Blue glass-tiled floors symbolize Japan’s rice paddies – the name Takara means “treasure from the rice paddy.” All wood

is reclaimed lumber, while the granite floor tiles contain glass recycled from sake, beer, whiskey, and other bottles. Takara Sake educates both mind and palate. Sampling courses offer different types vs. different tastes. The warehouse exterior has been renewed with a series of murals that bring 18th-century sake history to life. So embrace the counterculture of urban renewal and get away to Berkeley. Peace, love, and VisitBerkeley.com.

Adopt A Pet To adopt one of these pets or another orphaned pet call

El Dorado County Animal Shelter • 530-621-5795

6435 Capitol Ave, Diamond Springs • www.edcgov.us/animalservices

CERTINA (173293)

SHEEP (A173430)

GUS (A172935)

CHARLIE (A173610)

She is sure you will love her at first sight. Stop by the shelter and meet this b&W GSD mix. 16wks.

Wooly grass muncher ready for adoption. F Sheep age unk. white. 2 other sheep also available.

Aww, cute. It is a great month to adopt this tan/black Kangal. He will suit you to a T. 2 yr.

No footballs, no Lucy just a super cute and fun F Brown Tabby, DMH 4 mo.

RIKI (A172804)

ROLO (A173453)

RUSTY (A173452)

EMMA (A173436)

Give this cutie a loving home and the epic poem possibilities are endless. DSH B&W 14 wks M

Remember he is pet-able not edible. Cute tan & white Guinea Pig looking for a nice home. age unk.

A sweet cuddler who likes to squeak softly. M Guinea Pig Red tricolor age unk.

She is a nice size and would make a great active companion. Border Collie mix black age unk.

TIANA (A172534)

REGI (A173450)

CINDER (A173552)

LULU (A173600)

No worrying about Greeks bearing gifts, with this Husky princess by your side. She is white with black accents. 3 yr.

Live in a small home or apartment and need some company? Here is the perfect friendly grey Rat. 19mo. M

She has a “burning” desire to get adopted this week. Are you a match for her? DMH Blue 6mo

The bandana and a nice walk is fine, but she is not really into dress up. F Pit Bull Terrier mix B&W 1 yr.

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ADVERTISE HERE ON THIS PAGE!! Help orphaned pets find homes and promote your business at the same time. PRINCE (A170582) He has no aspirations to the throne, but is quite charming. Anatolian Shepherd. Cream/black 25 mo.

Call Elizabeth Hansen Today For Further Information (530) 344-5028

PUMPKIN (A144538) Adopt in time for the season. No squash jokes please. M DLH orange tabby 4yr.

To promote your business on this page call Elizabeth Hansen Today For Further Information (530) 344-5028.