Mountain Democrat: Friday, August 7, 2026

175

C ALI FORN IA’S OLDE ST NE W SPAPER

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– E S T. 18 51

– Weekend Edition – mtdemocrat.com

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7, 2026

VOLUME 175 • ISSUE 65 | $1.00

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Throene

A hazy sky is seen from Highway 193 looking into the American River canyon Wednesday afternoon. A fire to the south is the source of smoke in El Dorado County.

Smoke getting in your eyes? Lance Gunnersen

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

El Dorado High School teacher Lance Gunnersen stands in his woodshop near a student-built skateboard ramp. Gunnersen, 64, has retired from teaching.

Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit News release

Smoky skies are hard to miss around El Dorado County. Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit officials have received many calls and inquiries about the smoke and where it’s coming from. Much of the smoke is drifting into Amador and El Dorado counties from the Gann Fire in neighboring

PLACE ADDRESS LABEL HERE

Sentencing of the man accused of being an accessory after the fact in the killing of El Dorado County resident Tyson Fiddler has been postponed until November.

Staff writer

F

Joshua Joseph Lighthall, the Sacramento man accused of murdering Fiddler in 2024, is currently in custody in the county jail in Placerville. He was arrested last April, more than a year and a half after the discovery of Fiddler’s body. Lighthall faces a first-degree murder charge, as well as a special charge alleging that a deadly weapon was used. The criminal complaint against Lighthall also names Michael Alexander Cooney, a Placerville resident described in that document as having known that a felony murder had been committed by ■ See PLEA, page A9

■ See GUNNERSEN, page A8

Alleged murder accomplice takes a plea deal Staff writer

Shelly Thorene

or countless students at El Dorado High School, woodshop was more than a place to build projects. It was a place to gain confidence under the guidance of teacher Lance Gunnersen. Students return to class Monday but they will see a new teacher standing in front of the classroom as Gunnersen, 64, retired in May. A multi-talented tradesman, he taught drafting, robotics, electrical engineering, auto shop and metal shop for 29 years, serving 12 years at the Placerville high school. In addition to teaching, Gunnersen has carved other paths. “I have been on the board of the California Industrial Education Association for many years, and I am a past president,” he shared. “The group is

■ See SMOKE, page A3

Lance Armstrong

~

finds a new groove

Courtesy photos

Above, Lance Gunnersen, center, stands in the shop with his students at a podium they built for the El Dorado County Veterans Monument in 2018. Below, student-built wooden trains are finished and ready for Santa’s Toy Shop, a program started by Gunnersen in the 1990s.

A2  Friday, August 7, 2026   Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

ESSENTIALS LAKE LEVELS

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.

Gerald Warren “Jerry” Snyder May 13, 1937 – July 18, 2026

Jerry Snyder of Coloma California passed away peacefully on July 18th in his home at the Snyder Ranch on Cold Springs Rd, being comforted in his final minutes by son Jeff Snyder and daughter Karen Springer. He was 89 years old. Jerry was born to Waldemar G. Snyder and Hazel Martin Snyder in Modesto, Ca. He moved to Coloma at a young age to live with his Uncle Carlo Pisan and his Aunt Hilda Snyder Pisan, and they raised him as their own. They had homesteaded the beautiful property at the top of the grade, one mile from Coloma, in the early part of the 20th century, and named it The Venice Ranch in honor of Carlos’ beloved homeland. Along with raising sheep and goats, they worked one of the large pear orchards in the Coloma/Gold Hill area. The property overlooked the Coloma and Lotus valleys in the shadow of Mt. Murphy. Jerry was taught how to work hard on the property, and he grew to love it as much as anything in his life, a love that lasted until his final breath. Jerry was already working in the logging industry when he graduated from El Dorado High School in 1956. He soon ventured out and entered the construction trade, learning to run and operate heavy equipment of all kinds. He interrupted that career in 1958 to serve his country in the U.S. Army, earning an honorable discharge four years later in 1962. Upon his return, he worked construction jobs all over the state of California on several major projects, and he became so skilled that many in the industry still talk to this day about how he became a legend in the Sacramento area, known for his hard work ethic and his knowledge and expertise in dirt moving and compaction of large fill sites. Friend Larry Andrea recently commented that “there wasn’t a large dirt job around that you didn’t see him either running a water truck or a water pull with a dirty face and those baby blue eyes, always ready for a cold beer after a long day of hard work.” Everybody wanted him on their jobsite, and he passed these skills and work ethic on to his son Jeff. Jerry married his high school sweetheart, Judy VanderPauwert, and they had two children, Jeri Lee, and Jeff. After their divorce a few years later, Jerry was working a job in Southern California in Crestline, Ca. where he met Joan Hover while she was on vacation with her three children, Darrell, Karen, and Bobby. They fell in love, and shortly thereafter on July 18th, 1970 they were married. Not long after, due to the passing of his Uncle Carlo, and the failing health of his Aunt Hilda, Jerry and Joan moved the entire family from Pomona, Ca. to the ranch in Coloma, a move that was life changing for all of them. Living in a four room bunkhouse while building their new home, working a fulltime pear ranch, and tending to a few hundred sheep, goats, pigs and milking cows were all a far cry from the asphalt jungle of Southern California… and it was BEAUTIFUL. Jerry instilled that hard work ethic into all of his children, and Jerry and Joan raised them not as step children to either one, but as a true family. There was never a distinction then, or to this day about what constitutes a true mother or father, brother or sister as far as blood is concerned…to Jerry and Joans’

Anna Marie Tornincasa Oct. 26, 1932 – Aug. 2, 2026

Anna Marie Tornincasa went to be with the Lord peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at the age of 93. She was a longtime resident of Pollock Pines, where she remained active for many years. Anna enjoyed the hiking club, gardening, and serving in her church. She loved staying active—especially walking—and shared her life with many beloved dogs over the years. Her friendly, humorous personality endeared her to numerous friends. Those who stopped by for a visit often found music playing and Anna swinging contentedly on her back porch with a cup of coffee. Anna is survived by her three children, Larry and his wife Jeanette, Don and his wife Julie, and Debbie White; her sister, Doris Baltz; her daughter-in-law, Laura Tornincasa; seven grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband Vince, and their son Vince Jr. We are sure Anna is singing in heaven with those who went before her—free and happy. Her light has gone from this earth, but it will never be forgotten. A private family and close friends celebration of Anna’s life will take place on September 12th 3:00 at her son, Don’s house; at 3360 Coon Hollow Rd, Placerville. Close friends of Anna’s are welcome and should call or text Don to RSVP. 408-930-9370

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credit they instilled in all of their children the idea that a true family was not dictated simply at birth, but more so how they lived their lives together. The values they instilled in their children remain today. Jerry was proud of so many things. Along with his Army service, he was a 45 year member of the Elks Lodge and a 44 year member of the American Legion. He was a long time member of the Odd Fellows and The Grange, supporting all of their special causes and events. He was a supporter of the R.M.E.F., Ducks Unlimited, and a passionate lifetime member of the N.R.A. HE WAS AN ABSOLUTE CHARACTER! He was memorable to anyone who ever met him. He was a large man and personality, and somehow larger in life. He was constantly telling jokes, some remembered from years before. He had a sharp mind and a quick wit. He lived in that house on the hill that was built by him and Joan, and he reveled in calling it Snyderville, and the ranch, eventually, the Snyder Ranch. He was a hoarder, and he was a champion wheeler dealer. He had business cards and signs made on the property that simply said; “Jerry Snyder Will, Buy, Sell or Trade For Anything,” and he truly lived it. If buying and selling and trading were a professional sport, Jerry would have a roomful of the appropriate world championship trophies. He had many joys in his life. He cherished every pet that he ever owned, and he absolutely loved a good ribeye. It was a family tradition to attend the wheelbarrow races at the Fairgrounds, and for good reason. Over the years he watched his son and grandchildren not only compete and win the race, but sometimes dominate it, most recently granddaughter Makenzie a few weeks ago. Nobody cheered louder in those stands than Jerry Snyder. He loved to hunt, and he took many trips to Oregon with Jeff to hunt with Darrell near Bend, and those were some of the most memorable trips for the three of them of their lives; full of fun and adventure. In 2010 he and Darrell famously saved the life of a lost hunter, a war hero, who had been lost for 4 days and 3 nights in sub-freezing temperatures. It became International news, reaching as far away as Australia; and that story, as crazy as it gets, was simply one chapter of their hunting fun. His hunting name was “Bubba,” a self-named moniker that somehow described him perfectly out in the woods. Some of his favorite hunting related experiences were when the entire Ducks Unlimited attendees at the fairgrounds would sing happy birthday to him every year…over 400 of them…he loved it beyond measure. Jerry was generous to a fault. He could not say no to a family member or friend for almost any request. He lived a full life, a memorable life. At the end, to stay in his home, he was cared for by daughter Karen and granddaughter Allie to assist in his wish to never leave. He is preceded in death by brothers Dale, Gordon, and Paul. He is survived by brother David, his Children Jeff Snyder, Jeri Lee Hicks, Darrell Hover (Margaret), Karen Springer (Dave), Robert Hover (Aleesha), several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. He absolutely loved all of them in every way, and they loved him back. He said goodbye to the world in the way he wanted…from his house on the hill in the middle of Snyderville, overlooking Coloma, Lotus, and in the shadow of Mt. Murphy. He will be missed. A celebration of life will be held at the Snyder Ranch on August 22nd. Log on to RSVP or to send a message at: https:/evite.me/TaCcm94jVB (or contact Jeff or Karen).

Joan (Huntsman) Schwarzberg

Jan. 9, 1930 – July 13, 2026

Joan was born on January 9, 1930 to Paul (Ted) and Phyllis Poore in Blockton, Iowa. She was the second of four daughters. She peacefully passed away and went to be with her Lord and savior at the age of 96 on July 13, 2026 with her family by her side. Joan married her first love, Donald O. Huntsman, in 1947. They moved to El Dorado County in 1950, where she raised her family and lived for her next 76 years. She was the proud mother of 5 children: John Huntsman (Karen), Linda Brewster (Jim), Leonard Huntsman (Corinne), Steven Huntsman (Lorrie) and Kimberly Martin. She would proudly tell you she had 10 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren who she loved so dearly. Sadly, she was widowed in 1967. She was proceeded in death by her father, mother, husband, two sisters Shirley Keeney and Guess, and son-in-law Dean Brewster. Survived by her sister, Marsha Grundy. Joan worked for El Dorado Savings Bank in Placerville for 23 years. She was the second woman to solo in an airplane at the Placerville Airport. Her husband at the time, Don Huntsman, was the owner/ operator of Pine Belt Helicopters. She wanted to be able to fly the plane home if anything were to happen to him in the air. She found love again later in her life and married Donald Schwarzberg, her other Don. They had 16 wonderful years together until his passing in 2022. They attended Pollock Pines Baptist Church, where they sang in the choir together. They eventually moved to Gold Country Baptist Church. She was known for her sweet spirit and was loved by all. She loved her family deeply, a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck! She will be missed by all who loved her. The family would like to thank Gold Country Assisted Living for their loving care this past year. A memorial service will be held at Gold County Baptist Church (3800 N. Shingle Road, Shingle Springs) on August 15th at 11:00 am.

Caples Lake

Fork Confluence

Echo Lake

Silver Fork below Oyster Creek Confluence

Storage - 19,887 acre feet Percent full - 89.10% Storage - 1,720acre feet Percent full - 88.52%

El Dorado Forebay Storage - 483 acre feet

Ice House Reservoir Storage - 34,013 feet Percent full - 78% Inflow - 0 cfs Outflow - 17 cfs

Jenkinson Lake

Storage - 36,483 acre feet Percent full - 88 %

Lake Aloha

Flow - 64.61 cfs

Flow - 14.55 cfs

Silver Lake

Storage - 6,779 acre feet Percent full - 76.07 %

South Fork American River above Silver Fork Flow - 51.90 cfs

South Fork American River at Kyburz Flow - 23.51 cfs

Stumpy Meadows

Loon Lake

Storage - 20,124 acre feet Percent full - 95% Pilot Creek Inflow - 4.01 cfs Pilot Creek Outflow - 19.06 cfs

Silver Fork above South

Storage - 237,268 feet Percent full - 89% Inflow - 167 cfs Outflow - 260 cfs

Storage - 1,704 acre feet Percent full - 34.05 % Storage - 57,436 feet Percent full - 83% Inflow - 0 cfs Outflow - 160 cfs

Union Valley Reservoir

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

May 2 3:11 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Fair Pines Court in Garden Valley. 9:59 a.m. Burglary was reported on Pony Express Court in Pollock Pines. 12:14 p.m. Battery was reported at Serrano Parkway and Villagio Drive in El Dorado Hills.

business on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. 8:18 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Via Treviso in El Dorado Hills. 8:39 p.m. A party disturbance was reported on Serrano Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

May 4 3:59 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Pearl Place in Diamond Springs.

2:24 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Swansboro Road in Placerville.

5:40 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

3:10 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Prospectors Road in Garden Valley.

8:30 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

3:57 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Dollhouse Road in Placerville.

11:17 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Main Street in Georgetown.

4:14 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Prospectors Road in Garden Valley. 4:33 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

12:17 p.m. Burglary was reported on Quick Silver Road in Pollock Pines. 1:37 p.m. Battery was reported on Ponte Morino Drive Cameron Park.

6 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Post Street in El Dorado Hills.

3:56 p.m. Battery was reported on Investment Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

9:30 p.m. Battery was reported at Hagen Ranch and El Dorado roads in El Dorado.

5:39 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Park Drive in El Dorado Hills.

9:33 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at King Richard Drive and King Henry Way in El Dorado.

May 5

9:55 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Valley View Parkway in El Dorado Hills. 9:56 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Highway 49 in Placerville. 10:12 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on La Crescenta Drive in Cameron Park. 10:13 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at Milky Way and Hidden Lake Drive in Placerville. 10:17 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Cimmarron Road in Cameron Park. 10:28 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Outrigger Drive in El Dorado Hills.

May 3 12:03 a.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Diamond Village Way in Diamond Springs. 12:06 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Via Fiori in El Dorado Hills. 1:30 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Johntown Creek Road in Garden Valley. 9:56 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Pine Ridge Drive in Grizzly Flats. 12:13 a.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on El Dorado Hills Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. 12:22 a.m. Trespassing was reported at Stagecoach Road and Outrider Way in Placerville. 2:07 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. 3:11 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Grassy Run Road in Placerville. 3:40 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. 4:53 p.m. Trespassing was reported at Cedar Ravine and Camp Nauvoo roads in Placerville. 7:02 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Garden Circle in Cameron Park. 7:19 Petty theft was reported at a

2:47 a.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Jacquier Road in Placerville. 6:48 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at Elm Street and Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines. 7:30 a.m. Grand theft was reported on La Crescenta Drive in Cameron Park. 10:22 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Capitol Avenue in Diamond Springs. 11:34 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Riffle Court in Placerville. 3:09 p.m. Battery was reported on Liguria Court in El Dorado Hills. 3:25 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. 3:35 p.m. Battery was reported on Guadalupe Drive in El Dorado Hills. 4:30 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Canterbury Circle in El Dorado Hills. 5:28 p.m. p.m. Burglary was reported on Mandolin Way in Placerville. 7:56 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at Devon Way and Devon Court in El Dorado Hills. 8:55 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Highway 49 in El Dorado Hills. 10:14 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Pinon Road in Rescue. 10:52 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Palmer Drive in Cameron Park.

May 6 12:58 a.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Jacquier Road in Placerville. 7:10 a.m. Burglary was reported on Cambridge Drive in Cameron Park. 8:12 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Fairway Drive in Cameron Park. 10:05 a.m. Burglary was reported on Spoke Street in Pollock Pines. 10:21 a.m. A verbal disturbance n See CRIME LOG, page A3

mtdemocrat.com

Mountain Democrat   Friday, August 7, 2026  A3

Philanthropic gift supports completion of Tahoe area trail The Meeks Ridge Trail will create a spectacular 12-mile loop by connecting with the General Creek and Lost Lake trail systems.

Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association News release

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — The Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association announced a transformational $250,000 gift from local philanthropists Kyle and Jessica Aster that will fully fund the 2026 work season on the Meeks Ridge Trail, one of the organization’s most ambitious trail projects to date. The generous donation will enable TAMBA to push toward its ultimate goal of completing the final two miles of trail, reconnecting Meeks Bay to Lost Lake on Tahoe’s West Shore for the first time in decades and bringing a once-lost historical route back to life. The gift marks a defining milestone not only for the Meeks Ridge Trail, but for the future of trail development across the Lake Tahoe Basin. As one of the first major trail construction projects to move forward following approval of the U.S. Forest Service’s Basin Wide Trails Analysis Project, Meeks Ridge represents the beginning of a new chapter in expanding and improving Tahoe’s world-renowned trail network. “This extraordinary act of generosity is about so much more than funding a trail,” said Drew Bray, executive director of TAMBA. “It’s an investment in the future of recreation and community in

Crime log

Photo courtesy of TAMBA

Tahoe. Thanks to Kyle and Jessica’s incredible generosity, we’re not only completing one of the most exciting trail projects in the Basin — we’re demonstrating what’s possible as we begin bringing the vision of the Basin Wide Trails Analysis Project to life.” Once complete, the Meeks Ridge Trail will create a spectacular 12-mile loop by connecting with the General Creek and Lost Lake trail systems. The sustainably designed trail will provide hikers and mountain bikers with access to breathtaking granite landscapes, expansive views of Desolation Wilderness and rare old-growth forests while restoring a route that has been inaccessible for generations. Since construction

began, TAMBA volunteers and professional trail crews have built four miles of trail through rugged backcountry terrain. This summer, crews are tackling the final twomile section — the most technically challenging portion of the project. The work requires the expertise of professional trail building crews, extensive logistics and hundreds of volunteer hours to safely construct a sustainable trail through steep, remote terrain. The timing of the gift is especially significant as Tahoe enters a new era of trail planning. Earlier this year, the U.S. Forest Service approved the Basin Wide Trails Analysis Project, establishing a roadmap for up to 45 miles of future trail opportunities

while expanding Class 1 e-bike access across more than 100 miles of existing trails. The approval followed years of environmental review, public engagement, and collaboration among land managers and community partners. While each future trail project will require its own design, environmental review, fundraising and construction, the completion of Meeks Ridge demonstrates how that vision can become reality through strong community involvement and local investment. “Much of Tahoe’s world-class trail network is what it is thanks to the hard work of TAMBA’s dedicated staff, volunteers, and trail builders,” said Kyle Aster. “They’ve become one of my favorite

Continued from A2

was reported on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

was reported on Highway 49 in Placerville.

10:24 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

8:36 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines.

11:06 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

10:01 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Texas Canyon Road East in Placerville.

1:43 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Muir Wood Drive in El Dorado Hills.

11:10 a.m. Battery was reported on Trapani Lane in El Dorado Hills. 11:51 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Bear Creek Road in Garden Valley.

10:45 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Gardenia Circle in El Dorado Hills.

1:47 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

May 7

12:45 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Kimberly Road in Cameron Park.

12:45 a.m. An intoxicated person was reported on Pleasant Valley Road in El Dorado.

2:03 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Sweetwater Trail in Cool.

1:52 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Golden Foothill Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

1:48 a.m. A noise disturbance was reported at Oxford and Cambridge roads in Cameron Park.

2:55 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a business on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

8:10 a.m. Battery was reported at Marshall Road in Garden Valley.

3:20 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Lotus Road in Lotus.

8:26 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Silva Valley Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

6:01 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Highway 49 in Placerville.

10:39 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Deer Valley Road in Rescue.

6:57 p.m. A verbal disturbance

10:56 a.m. Trespassing was

reported at Valley View and Blackstone parkways in El Dorado Hills. 1:10 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Alder Drive in Camino.

2:54 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on East Carey Avenue in Georgetown. 3:40 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Muir Wood Drive in El Dorado Hills. 5:44 p.m. Battery was reported at a business on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville. 7:12 p.m. Battery was reported on China Garden Road in Placerville. 7:20 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Cambridge Road in Cameron Park.

Smoke

an unprecedented opportunity to thoughtfully expand Tahoe’s trail network,” Bray said. “Completing Meeks Ridge is the first step on that journey. We hope this incredible gift inspires others to join us in building the next generation of trails that will connect communities, improve access, protect natural resources and create unforgettable outdoor experiences for decades to come.” Construction on the Meeks Ridge Trail is entering its final phases, with work expected to be completed in 2027. Community contributions help support the work still ahead and will help bring this landmark trail closer to completion. Learn more at tamba. org.

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Continued from A1 Calaveras County. Forecast smoke imagery from the U.S. National Weather Service Sacramento indicates smoke may continue to impact the area over the next couple of days, depending on fire activity and changing wind patterns. If you see or smell smoke, it’s likely from the Gann Fire — not a new local incident. If smoke is present in your area, consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity, especially if you’re sensitive to smoke; keeping windows and doors closed, and running your air conditioning on recirculate or using an air purifier if available. For current air quality conditions in your area visit airnow.gov.

organizations to work with, and it’s deeply meaningful to be able to support their efforts to complete the Meeks Ridge Trail.” The project also reflects TAMBA’s longstanding partnership with the U.S. Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit and other public agencies to build sustainable, environmentally responsible trails that improve recreation while protecting the landscapes that make Tahoe unique. As work continues on Meeks Ridge, TAMBA hopes the project will inspire others to support the next generation of trail investments throughout the basin. “The Basin Wide Trails Analysis Project gives our community

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A4

Friday, August 7, 2026

Mountain Democrat

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OPINION California Commentary

With friends like these …

I

n both California and the nation at large, there is a perception that Republicans are more fiscally conservative than Democrats. While voting records and position statements generally confirm this, there are times Republicans can disappoint their constituents as badly as JON COUPAL progressive Democrats. The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association is a nonpartisan organization, but it hasn’t escaped our notice that in California, Republican candidates for legislative seats invariably support Proposition 13, California’s iconic tax reduction law passed overwhelmingly in 1978. Democrats, on the other hand, while smart enough not to take on Prop. 13 directly, will support laws that weaken it. The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association was founded shortly after Prop. 13 was approved by voters and exists to defend the law against all attacks. HJTA also advocates for sound fiscal policies generally and government accountability. As part of advocating for taxpayers, we vet candidates and incumbents who seek our political action committee’s endorsement for public office. Democrats, unfortunately, rarely seek the HJTA endorsement, most likely because they disagree with our contention that California is already overtaxed and over-regulated. HJTA endorses candidates based on proven records and, in those rare cases where there is no voting record, we attempt to ensure that Regrettably, over an endorsed candidate will in fact protect the the past two interests of taxpayers decades, California as well as defend Prop. taxpayers have 13. According to several polls, HJTA is the most fewer and fewer trusted endorsement on advocates in taxpayer issues. Among Republican voters, HJTA the California actually scores higher Legislature. than the Republican Party itself. The consequences for a politician who promises one thing and then breaks that promise can be severe, especially when it comes to tax increases. In case there was any doubt, consider the case of George H.W. Bush with his famous “read my lips: No new taxes” pledge. After breaking that pledge, he failed to win a second term, losing to Bill Clinton. Taxpayers are concerned with public debt as much as tax increases, because one often leads to the other. That is why any state or local bond must be scrutinized very carefully. But another variant of debt is in the form of public employee pensions. In one respect, pension debt is more insidious because once pension benefits are granted, courts have made them virtually impossible to roll back. Reforms are generally limited to future employees. California suffered a near catastrophe on pension debt during the great recession. The dot-com boom of the late 1990s allowed Democrats to assume high returns would last indefinitely. Foolishly, they increased pension benefits retroactively. The inevitable market crash and 2008-09 financial panic left state pension funds severely underfunded. Former Governor Jerry Brown overcame strong

Letters to the Editor New wave of voters EDITOR: he train is in the station, heading into the future with our youth on board; 49 million young people will be eligible to vote in the 2026 midterms. Tufts University research reports that youth ages 18-29 are a large, powerful and diverse voting bloc that can use their voice to shape electoral outcomes. No other resource deserves our encouragement more. Our country faces historical divisions at home and in the world order and we need their energy and bright minds, because one thing won’t change. Our youth are our future. They are stepping forward, joining protests all over the country. More young adults are running for city, state and national office, hoping to someday join Maxwell Frost, Jasmine Crockett and Jon Osoff, who are already serving. As Americans, we share common goals — a fair wage, health care, education including college and trade schools, a future that includes a home and family. But we’ll need to work together to keep the American Dream alive, and it won’t happen overnight.

T

The secretary of state designates the last two weeks of April and September as High School Voter Education Weeks. Our local high schools participate at varying levels. Government teachers ask students to pre-register or register and to volunteer to work at the vote centers. These efforts are critical. Tufts study predicts 56% of youth are “extremely likely” to vote in the midterms, and they are saying they want change. We know participating in governance is both invigorating and interesting. They will too, if we invite them on board, ask them what they think, offer them a seat on that train. The time is now. The train is leaving the station. MARGO LANDRUM Placerville

Replace McClintock EDITOR:

W

hat has your representative done for you lately? This is an easy question, but I can’t name one thing Representative Tom McClintock ■ See LETTERS, page A5

■ See COUPAL, page A5

Guest Column

Fact and fiction about the continuing climate crisis

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ust two years “Global warming is ago, the driving polar bears United Nations towards extinction,” secretary general headlined The New announced, “Global York Times. It’s just not warming has ended ... true. The era of global boiling “Polar bears have has arrived!” increased their “(We were) warned populations,” explains about this,” said a “Daily Heartland Institute Show” host, “by every fellow Linnea Lueken. scientist for the last 50 Estimates from the JONH STOSSEL years!” 1960s placed polar bear His audience populations at around applauded. 17,000-19,000. Today, Wow. Every scientist agreed! there are about 26,000. But here’s the thing. They didn’t. OK, maybe polar bears aren’t going Many of the scaremongers’ claims extinct, but we’re told we might. are just wrong. Former President Barack Obama Yes, the climate is warming. People announced, “Our changing climate burning fossil fuels adds to that. is already making it more difficult to produce food!” But there’s little agreement about But agricultural output keeps apocalyptic claims that environmental setting record highs. groups make. The Mountain Democrat welcomes letters up to 300 words. Letters may be edited. We reserve the right to edit submissions. Include your name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

Email: editor@ mtdemocrat.net

We think of environmental groups as little guys — fighting big polluters. But today environmental groups are big guys spending millions on lawsuits that block progress. So alarmist media and environmental groups move on to other scares: “Climate change is making droughts worse,” writes Earthjustice. “Droughts are absolutely not getting worse,” says Lueken. “The media love to share stories when there is a drought somewhere, some specific location. They completely ignore previous years with record low amounts of drought.” Globally, there’s been no increase in drought. Climate alarmists have a better argument when they say rising sea levels will cause floods. But the media’s claims are silly.

In 2004, The Guardian claimed a “secret report” said: “European cities will be sunk beneath rising seas ... by 2020.” Yes, six years ago. The “experts” also predicted rising seas will “completely cover” the Maldives. But since then, the islands have grown in size. They are even building new airports. “Sea level rise is absolutely occurring, but it’s been slow,” says Lueken. “About an inch a decade. There is no way people wouldn’t be able to adapt.” More than 100 million people

Snail Mail: Letters to the Editor P. O. Box 1088, Placerville 95667

Main Office: 2889 Ray Lawyer Drive Placerville 95667

■ See STOSSEL, page A5

mtdemocrat.com Mountain Democrat

Friday, August 7, 2026

A5

CDFW completes 2026 Waterfowl Breeding Population Survey Peter Tira

pilots have conducted this survey annually using fixed-wing aircraft since 1948. The population estimates are for those areas where the vast majority of waterfowl nesting occurs in California, including wetland and agricultural areas in northeastern California, throughout the Central Valley, the Suisun Marsh and some coastal valleys. The complete 2026 California Waterfowl Breeding Population Survey Report is available at the CDFW website. The majority of California’s wintering duck population originates from breeding areas surveyed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Alaska and Canada, and these results should be available by late August. CDFW survey information, along with similar data from other Pacific Flyway states, is used by the USFWS and the Pacific Flyway Council when setting hunting regulations for the Pacific Flyway states, including California.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Photo courtesy of CDFW

Waterfowl populations are mostly holding steady in California, according to a new report.

Letters

Continued from A4

has done to make life easier in California’s Fifth District. He’s voted yes to everything that’s made our lives worse: • Tariffs • A trillion-dollar national deficit • The five-month-plus illegal war with Iran • Building ICE concentration camps • Increasing funding to ICE, guilty of murdering American citizens and legal immigrants • Allowing foreign mining of our public lands without financial compensation

Stossel

IGHT N T R O S E R + SINO RED HAWK CA

Continued from A4

already live below sea level in places like Holland. Dikes hold back water. Climate change may cause real problems. But we can adapt, rather than get hysterical about mythical threats. Like the claim that coral reefs are disappearing. “Great Barrier Reef headed for ‘massive death,’” claimed CNN. “The Great Barrier Reef is doing fine,” says Lueken. “2024 actually saw record coverage for the Great Barrier Reef ... Corals thrive in tropical conditions.” Environmental groups claimed bees were dying out. They called it “beepocalypse!” “Thirty percent of the honeybees disappearing,” claimed actress Angelina Jolie. Yes, 20 years ago, there was a drop in some bee populations. No one is certain why. But nature and beekeepers adjusted. Now there are 31% more bee colonies. “We’re not in any way facing an apocalypse involving bees,” says science writer Jon Entine. “Things have never been better in terms of the numbers of bees globally.” Even as the numbers of bees

Coupal

• SNAP benefit cuts • Medicare and Medicaid cuts • Women’s reproductive healthcare cuts (including telehealth) • Disability benefit cuts • Veteran benefit cuts • National Park funding cuts • FEMA and CDC cuts • Forest firebreak cuts (fire prevention) McClintock has proven to be a yesman, but not to the constituents he represents. It’s time for a change. Vote him out! LINDA RETHWISCH Somerset

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has completed its 2026 waterfowl breeding population survey. Data indicates that mallards, the most abundant duck species in the survey, nearly maintained their 2025 population estimate. The breeding population of mallards is estimated at 267,101, a 1% decrease from 2025. Total ducks (all species combined) decreased from 482,358 to 435,937 (a 10% decrease). Mallards remain below the long-term average by 18%. “Abundant April rains combined with carryover water from 2025 allowed favorable habitat conditions for nesting ducks. Average production is expected for most duck species in northern California,” said CDFW Waterfowl Program Biologist Melanie Weaver. CDFW biologists and warden-

increased, reports of their death continue. “Bee population is in decline!” CNN headlined. Environmental groups push these myths to get your money. “Scares drive donations,” says Entine. “The oxygen for these organizations is money donated by people who think they’re doing good.” We think of environmental groups as little guys — fighting big polluters. But today environmental groups are big guys spending millions on lawsuits that block progress. Greenpeace pulls in more than $400 million a year. Your donations to the World Wildlife Fund pay for its elegant 250,000-square-foot headquarters. The Natural Resources Defense Council funnels your hard-earned dollars into extravagant, star-studded galas. Climate change may cause real problems. But we can adapt. Don’t let scammers like Natural Resource Defense Council squander your money. John Stossel is a political commentator and the author of “Government Gone Wild: Exposing the Truth Behind the Headlines.”

Continued from A4

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itchen & Bathroom Remodel Specialist! opposition from public sector labor organizations to achieve some modest pension reforms. But now even those modest reforms are at risk thanks to the nearly unanimous support in the California Assembly of Assembly Bill 1383. It would lower the retirement age for some public safety workers as well as repealing other aspects of the reform. The fact that only two Republicans, Carl DeMaio, R-San Diego, and David Tangipa, R-Fresno, voted “no” on the bill is profoundly disappointing to taxpayers (and their children) who are on the hook to pay for these unaffordable generous benefits. In another disappointing development, a handful of Republicans provided key votes to pass two bills that authorized local governments to increase their sales taxes beyond what the law allows. Currently, California has the highest state sales tax rate in the nation at 7.25%. Local governments are, under statute, allowed to add another 2% for a cap of 9.25%. But “special legislation” has allowed some localities to impose taxes even higher. The worst examples are

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g ht the past two decades, the cities of Lancaster Proudly brou u m California taxpayers and Palmdale, where eason We’re N ber One!” e The R erienc “Exp have fewer and fewer the sales tax rate is a advocates in the punishing 11.25%. TERS AUTO & TRUCK CEN California Legislature. In October, that That may be one rate will rise to 11.75% more factor behind thanks to Assembly Bill the accelerated 1768, which enabled “de-population” of the Los Angeles County to once Golden State as increase its sales tax citizens move to other by another one-half states that don’t seize as percent. The bill had an much money from their “urgency” clause ahead pockets. of the June primary Jon Coupal is election, meaning it president of the Howard needed a two-thirds Stay up to date with a subscription to the Mountain Democrat Jarvis Taxpayers vote to pass. Although website: mtdemocrat.com. Call (530) 622-1255 to subscribe. Association. some Democrats hesitated to vote for a tax increase enabling bill, Republicans Juan Alanis, Stan Ellis, Greg Wallis, Jeff Gonzalez, and Republican leader Heath Flora voted “yes,” $ allowing vulnerable Off Bathroom Democrats to skip the Remodel vote. Republican Megan Dahle provided a key vote in the Senate. Similarly, Flora and Alanis provided “yes” votes to pass Senate Bill 762 earlier this month, enabling more than a $ dozen local governments Off Kitchen to raise their sales tax Remodel above the legal cap. Some of these ostensibly taxpayer Kitchen Remodels • Bathroom Remodels friendly legislators Window Replacements • Interior/Exterior Painting • Concrete asserted the weak Ed Lane of Valley Home Construction excuse that they “only 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 voted to allow voters to 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 decide.” From the point 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. of view of taxpayers, a Valley Home Construction. professional home remodeling and home improvements, asofwell as built homes to thousands customers vote in favor of a waiver valleyhomeconstruction.com in the greater Sacramento region since Lic. #982830 custom-built homes to thousands of customers in the1995. greater Sacramento to allow a tax increase is Valley Home Construction is Ed Mark fully licensed and insured. no different than a vote since 1995. Valley Home Construction is fully licensed and insured. region to raise taxes. Lic. #982830 Regrettably, over

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A6   Friday, August 7, 2026   Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

SPORTS

COMICS n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

Courtesy photo

Ron Dosh and Rick Kuebler celebrate their pickleball tournament win earlier this summer.

Local pickleball players go from zeroes to heroes n Unlikely duo wins gold in

pickleball tournament

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Special to the Mountain Democrat

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

hen Ron Dosh, 76, and Rick Kuebler, 72, stepped out onto the court at the Folsom Lifetime Summer Classic Pickleball Tournament, the naysayers were all smiles. It is a rare occurrence to find an elderly grandfather competing against talented and dedicated young players in a tournament setting. Finding two, teamed up as partners is virtually unheard of. Still, there was an opportunity to trade blows with younger opponents for bragging rights, medals and even purse money in the 3-3.5 skill level on Saturday, July 18. When Rick first stepped onto a pickleball court nearly five years ago there were only two elderly ladies available to play with. They invited him to play “cutthroat” in which each players accumulates an individual score. After three games Rick had not scored a single point to which the ladies remarked, “We don’t know your

name, but you … Zero, try again.” As other players arrived that day the ladies introduced him to all of them as Zero, and it stuck. Today, few players know him as Rick, but everyone knows Zero. He and wife Terry have been Placerville residents for 25 years and have raised one daughter, Kacey and grandson, Orson. Ron grew up as a standout athlete. With catlike reflexes and determined attitude toward sports, he reigned as champion as far as he could go in Maryland and then received a scholarship to wrestle in college. He also excelled in water sports, competitive AAU swimming and diving. He and wife Chrysan settled in Shingle Springs where they have raised children and grandchildren for decades while Ron pursued his trade in law. The two met playing regularly at the Cameron Park Community Center. In the first tournament held in that facility they finished one, two. From there, at the urging of Nationals gold medalist Maria Brooks, the two combined to qualify and compete in n See PICKLEBALL, page A7

Solutions to puzzles in Classified section of newspaper.

HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis n TODAY ARIES (March 21-April 19). Reality makes a wonderful starting point and a terrible ceiling. You don’t have to expect less. But it would help to get better at predicting what each situation is likely to give you, while remaining open to surprise. TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Even those you know very well are capable of surprising you, though you may need to lead the charge. What have you always wanted to know, but never asked? What have you noticed but never thought to compliment? There’s a deeper potential for this relationship. GEMINI (May 21-June 21). A quick wit is rarer than you imagine. It’s not about having lines ready to deploy. It’s being in the moment, noting the situation in real time and being confident enough to risk saying it aloud. CANCER (June 22-July 22). When you’re into a thing, it hits different. You just know. You can’t always explain it, and you really shouldn’t have to. Keys don’t explain why they fit the lock. It just works, and you’re suddenly in a new room. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your moods move like weather, heart-first. Your heart will be full. It will also yearn, sparkle and beat to a shared rhythm, and skip beats, too, in response to the surprises and attractions of the day. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Even if you’re totally decided about the next move, you’ll still hear all sides. You may secretly know that you’re not going to back down or give in, but it wouldn’t be diplomatic to lead with that. Besides, information is power. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You can certainly work within

constraints, but it’s better to break at least one of the rules. Maybe it’s the one about timing. You can’t rush greatness. Give yourself room to experiment, or at least get the details just how you like them. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). When people want something, but aren’t saying what it is, you can feel that as though the unspoken has an actual weight. Direct questions won’t be ideal today, and anyway, you’re much cleverer than that. You’ll tease out the information. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). When you get tired, should you push through or ease up? Today it will be more productive to rest a while and recover your energy. New insights will come to you when you’re refreshed. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Before chasing the next goal, take more time celebrating the last one. Because when you revel in what’s working, you become a magnet for easy success. It doesn’t have to be so hard to pursue what you want. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Every day asks for a little tolerance. Today asks for more. Hanging in there with the tough stuff will be the main growth opportunity of the day: accepting and enduring the reality until the time it can be changed. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). What would you gladly practice for years whether you were paid to or not? This one makes you read the whole book, join the special club, keeps you in pursuit until you’re a master. The more you put into it, the more you love it..

Photo courtesy of D&P Photos

Join the crowd this Saturday night at Placerville Speedway. Racing action includes the Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Car event.

Red Hawk Casino Night brings championship racing to P’ville Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

The Berco Building Materials championship season at Placerville Speedway’s is entering its final stretch, with just three point races remaining, including this Saturdays Red Hawk Resort + Casino Night. Since opening in 1965, the

Placerville Speedway has been a favorite among fans throughout Northern California. Well known for its steep banks, distinctive red clay, loyal fan base and extremely close action, the track is located just 40 minutes up the hill from the capital city of Sacramento. n See RACING, page A9

mtdemocrat.com

Pickleball

Mountain Democrat

A7

Friday, August 7, 2026

Continued from A6

the 2025 Nationals Pickleball Tournament. The Nationals had an age-related division of 70-75 but the Lifetime Summer Classic did not. It was an allage event with no charity for elderly players. “We like to point out our old guys rules give us double bounces and a five-point lead,” Ron insisted, noting no one was willing to take the bait. Elimination pool play proved difficult as the pair faced the prospect of an early exit if they could not erase a final game 11-4 deficit in a game to 15. They dug deep to pull out a 15-13 win and advance to the medal round. “The other team was younger, faster and stronger than we were,” quipped Rick, “but we were wilier and treacherous.” The reward for making the medals round as the last seed was to face the No. 1 seed again, who had beaten them 15-6 in pool play. Again, the two faced a mountain to climb as they fell behind 11-7 in the one-game elimination but then employed a different strategy. “We crab grassed them,” said Rick, sharing a term he invented to motivate a resurgence. “You can’t get rid of crab grass; it just keeps coming back.” Ultimately the two changed tactics and played a more aggressive game, which led to a 15-11 victory and knocked out the favorites from the gold match. The second-seed team of the tournament was overjoyed in that they had won their elimination match and would not face the top seed but rather now face Team Zero, who they had beaten in pool play. The gold medal match for all the money would be a best two out of three games to 11. It seemed to be a foregone conclusion to all watching as the second seed team romped to a 11-1 win in the first game. “Somebody should have called AAA, it was a blowout,” Rick recalled. Still undaunted, Team Zero would dig deep to make game two a barn burner. “We were behind again but then Ron shifted gears,” Rick said. “He got into one of those zones of overwhelming confidence and we took control of the last half of the game for the win.” With the series tied 1-1 Team Zero carried that momentum into game three and opened up a 5-0 lead. The team had it all going for them when seeming disaster raised its head. With a 7-2 lead Ron tripped and fell. “It was the first time I had ever taken a fall playing pickleball,” he said. There was immediate concern from everyone,

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players and spectators alike. He had twisted a knee and his continuation was in doubt. “It hurt, but when Zero told me to rub some dirt on it, the humor helped ease the pain,” Ron recalled. Play continued and the opposing team made their last push and closed the score to 9-7. In the end, Team Zero prevailed with an 11-7 victory and completed the unlikely upset in a tournament which all found to be enjoyable. The awards ceremony included gold medals and a check for $160. Not quite enough to seek out a

financial advisor, but then again, both are already retired. The real payoff came in the overall experience, memories and new friends in the pickleball world. When combined with the old friends competing at Lyons Park, Cameron Park Community Center, Oak Ridge High School, and other recreational sites, it’s no wonder why pickleball is America’s fasting growing sport. When asked what’s next for Team Zero, the two agreed, even if they end up in wheelchairs, there’s still a national competition for that!

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2889 Ray Lawyer Dr., Placerville, CA 95667 The New https://www.redfi York Timesn.com/agent/mark-morris Syndication Sales Corporation DRE# 02050961 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 For Information Email: syndicate-service@nytimes.com For Release Friday, August 7, 2026

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

Friday, August 7, 2026

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Saturday, August 8, 2026

Crossword ACROSS 1 Bar fight? 10 Brand of tights with an apostrophe in its name 15 Expansive marine exhibits 16 Really fancy 17 1991 blockbuster with the tagline “One breath of oxygen and it explodes in a deadly rage” 18 Fax predecessor 19 Grand Tour, e.g. 20 Buyer 21 Like ideal arrivals 23 “___ pics!” 24 Conceptual framework 28 Follower of X or G 29 Peacock’s home 30 Word that becomes its opposite when its first letter is removed

31 “Gotcha,” to a beatnik 33 Piece of cartoon memorabilia 34 Steamed 35 Golden goal periods, for short 36 “Miracle on 34th Street” actress Maureen 38 Certain Ivy Leaguer 39 Painter ___ Thomas, first Black woman to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum

49 Animals with prehensile proboscises 51 “The One” 56 First name in cosmetics 57 Pioneering P.D.A. 58 Ship back? 59 Soft drink originally made with egg whites 60 Short 61 Rock instrument?

DOWN 1 One of the Starks on “Game of Thrones” 41 Passes (out) 2 Berry spelled with 42 Bracketed a cedilla disclaimer 3 Small smack 43 Lover of sugar 4 Brown, in a way 44 Results of swiping 5 Milky Way’s nearest major 45 Lend, informally galaxy 47 Second-smallest 6 #MeToo U.S. state capital movement activist by population Burke (about 14,000 people) 7 Expanse 8 Observation by Oscar Wilde about ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE the relationship between I M P E I T A K E S A B OW reality and S M I L E L I N E MO L T S creativity P R E S I D E N T I A L R U N 9 “Mangia!” T O T E A M I D S T 10 Not 21-Across U T A A S S N Y E S L A D E 11 Elysia S R S L Y E T A S S O D S 12 False idol in the Y A P S F O E E F I L E S Old Testament N E T I P O T 13 Army specialist B I G E A S Y S N I T C A N A R D U R N with a headwearinspired nickname S P E W T H R O E Y E O H R I M S MO G D A P S 14 Where students learn about P O E M D E I G O A T E E congress I K N OW T H E F E E L I N G 20 “___ Sancte R O S E N B I C U L T U R E Spiritus” (medieval E W E R S B E E T S U G A R Latin hymn)

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PUZZLE BY KAREEM AYAS

22 Things often refilled, informally 24 Cardiac exam on a treadmill 25 Gochujang, e.g. 26 Blade runner? 27 Before, in olden times 32 “Lord, have mercy!” 35 One attracted to all gender identities, for short 37 Tilling aid

40 The Indianapolis 500 has 200 of them 44 President who married one of his kindergarten classmates 46 Membership categories 48 Loggers’ competition

52 Weather phenomenon often appearing in the evening 53 Dum ___ (potatobased curry dish) 54 List header 55 List ender

50 Former French 57 Some notebooks, president ___ Coty in brief

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

A8  Friday, August 7, 2026   Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Gunnersen

Continued from A1

responsible for teacher education and we hosted conferences throughout the state. We spoke to legislators and can proudly say we’ve gotten some legislation through with the help of others. AB 1330 was one we championed, which allows school districts to count CTE classes toward graduation. Not all districts do that. It’s still optional. The smart ones do that. It is sorely needed throughout the state. “I was also the chair of the adult alternative and career technical education committee at (the California Teachers Association),” he continued. “It is a union that has committees surrounding many subjects in education.” While supporting education behind the scenes is important, Gunnersen said he’s most proud of the legendary Santa’s Toy Shop he started at El Dorado High School in the late 1990s. Every year, woodshop students built wooden trains, toys and games given to kindergarteners at a bustling holiday party every December. “Students become interested when they see their creations being used in the community and once the gift is given, they see the real benefit of using their skills to help others,” Gunnersen explained. The holiday event has featured students and teacher in elf costumes, live music and twinkling Christmas lights. The toy shop grew into a day-long event, where more than 400 transitional

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

kindergarten and kindergarten students from local schools rotate through art rooms to paint ornaments with high school elves and join dance students for a holiday-themed performance. “When I started my career, they were always trying to get rid of the shops. I was always fighting to keep my job,” Gunnersen recalled. “That was 30 years ago but now, the last five or six years, they’re fighting to bring them back. “They’re waking up to the fact that AI is going to take a lot of our jobs. There is a teacher shortage so now they pick up people from the industry. This is a tough job and you can get a lot better pay in industry so that’s a challenge,” he added. “Sometimes I would fill in for someone

who was leaving, just to keep the program going. In whichever school district I was in, it has always been a challenge, keeping the trades, Career Technical Education going.” Running a shop with two classrooms is a lot of work but Gunnersen said he has no regrets. “It was a ton of responsibility for maintaining all of the equipment and ordering supplies in addition to all the teaching responsibilities. However, I have always felt supported by the school and the district,” he said.

A lasting impact Throughout the years, Gunnersen’s students had opportunities to create their own custom, one-of-akind pieces. They

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Woodshop teacher Lance Gunnersen, left photo, stands behind a student-built table at the Placerville branch of the El Dorado County Library — his final student project before retiring. Above, photos of finished woodshop projects make up a wall of fame in Gunnersen’s classroom. were also encouraged to work together on many projects for the community, including a speaker’s podium for the El Dorado County Veterans Monument, a park bench, a replica of the John M. Studebaker wheelbarrow and, most recently, a table for featured books at the Placerville branch at the El Dorado County Library. Woodshop student Jaxson Wagner said he took Gunnersen’s classes twice and was a Santa’s Toy Shop Elf. “He’s a great teacher, influential and always positive.” the 16-year-old shared. Some of Gunnersen’s students have gone on to work in the industry and have kept in touch. “A former student sent me an email saying he was working in a cabinet shop in town and asked if I wanted a donation,” Gunnersen said. “I went to his shop and talked to him and we have since worked with the shop. “Another student studied marine biology and a month after graduation he changed his mind,” he continued. “He contacted me and said, ‘Hey, Mr. Gunnersen, I changed my mind. I really want to go into woodworking as a profession’ and he asked me, ‘What advice do you have?’ Now he’s working in a high-end cabinet and finish place and making stuff on the side for himself, as well. “I was at a conference for educators and I

was presenting for the California Industrial and Technology Education Association and young a man who kind of looked familiar came up to me and said, ‘You’re Mr. Gunnersen, aren’t you? I was in your junior high shop class and I am at this conference because I am a shop teacher,’ the proud now-retired teacher recalled. “I was like, ‘That’s awesome, dude!’ He attributed his becoming a shop teacher because of the experience he had in my class. That happened when I was teaching at Davis.” Woodshop opens doors beyond woodworking, Gunnersen added. “There are several students working down at Snowline Engineering in town who were strictly from the woodworking class but are now in metalworking at that location because they gained the shop skills they needed,” he explained. “We send students from the school out to industry all of the time.” “I wasn’t a great student in grades 9 and 10. My parents urged me to try a trade-oriented high school and I just took to woodshop and that turned me around,” Gunnersen told the Mountain Democrat. “I was not destined to go to college. I started selling my woodworking in high school and I

figured out that I can learn and I decided to go to college. I’ve had other students say they didn’t think of going to college until they took my class.”

Next chapter Gunnersen spent his first official day of retirement on Aug. 6 in Lake Tahoe. As for the El Dorado High School CET program, he shared the school has a new teacher who is taking a very different route. The program’s engineering emphasis has been mothballed and the new focus will be on building construction as that is the new teacher’s expertise. There will no longer be a Santa’s Toy Shop, Gunnersen shared. “It’s a lot — to order supplies and parts and then all the stuff you do as a teacher,” he said of his now-former job. “But don’t get me wrong, I loved my time here at El Dorado High. It is definitely my favorite district and school. I always felt well-supported by the school board.” Gunnersen said his retirement plans include playing more music, especially the piano, and he and his wife Julia plan to travel. They already have a trip to Europe planned. “I also want to do more whitewater rafting,” he said, “and continue woodworking in my own woodshop.”

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Healthy school year starts with vaccines California Department of Public Health The California Department of Public Health reminds families of the importance of routine vaccines as students return for the new school year. Vaccination helps keep kids in school and doing the activities they love by preventing the spread serious illnesses. ​California schools and childcare facilities require vaccines to prevent contagious diseases, including measles. Immunization requirements are the same as in previous years. Routine childhood vaccines are well-studied, have a strong safety profile and are​closely monitored. They are proven to help protect students against severe illness and hospitalization, keeping them healthy and thriving in classrooms. “California’s future depends on healthy children who are better prepared to grow and learn,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH director and State Public Health Officer. “As both a parent and pediatrician, I have full confidence in the safety and effectiveness of vaccines, including the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine that protects against measles. CDPH remains committed to ensuring all families have access to reliable, science‑based information and the immunizations that protect our communities.” State law requires students to receive age‑appropriate immunizations to attend public and private schools and licensed

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childcare centers. These institutions must ensure that all students meet immunization requirements, maintain records for enrolled children, and report immunization data to CDPH. California’s childhood vaccine guidance remains consistent with previous years and is developed in collaboration with trusted medical experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Routine childhood vaccines include all immunizations required for school and childcare entry, so children who are up to date on routine vaccinations already meet these requirements. All recommended vaccines continue to be covered by insurance in California. Most health plans, including MediCal, cover recommended vaccinations with no out-of-pocket costs. Children without insurance coverage qualify for the Vaccines for Children Program, which provides no-cost vaccines for eligible children. Families can visit CDPH’s all new Immunization Branch webpage for information on immunizations, as well as the Shots for School and Don’t Wait – Vaccinate! webpages for information on immunization laws and required vaccinations for students in California. For programs available in El Dorado County visit the Public Health webpage at eldoradocounty.ca.gov/Health-WellBeing/Public-Health.

Racing

Mountain Democrat   Friday, August 7, 2026  A9

Continued from A6

Clarksburg’s Justyn Cox continued an immensely consistent season last weekend, netting his seventh top five finish in the nine Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Car events held. Cox continues to maintain a 33-point lead over Auburn’s Andy Forsberg with just three races left. Jake Morgan, Seth Standley and Michael Sellers round out the top five in the standings. Yuba City’s Rod Oliver is in search of a second straight title with the Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models. He goes into Saturday night maintaining a healthy 41-point advantage atop the standings over Tyler Lightfoot. With the Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks it has been all Nick Baldwin. The seven-time track champion claimed his seventh win of the season last week at the Carnett Clash. He is now three races away from an eighth title. The colorful coupes of the Nor-Cal Dwarf Car Association round out Saturday’s card. Their most recent appearance saw a wild conclusion to the feature, where Mike Grenert earned a final lap win.

Tickets & details Grandstand seating during Red Hawk Resort + Casino Night will be general admission this Saturday Aug. 8, apart from the reserved seats allocated to season ticket holders that are marked.

Adult tickets cost $18, while seniors 62-plus, military and juniors 12-17 will be $16. Kids 6-11 cost $8 and those 5 and younger get in free. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online via eventsprout.com/event/psr080826. The pit gate will open at noon, with the front gate opening at 4 p.m. Cars hit the track at 5:15 p.m. with hot laps, ADCO Driveline Qualifying and racing to follow. Hirst Home Team Happy Hour is offered from 4-6 p.m. in the grandstands, featuring discounted Coors Light/ Coors Banquet Beer at the Cold Zone and recession special $6 Kings Meats cheeseburgers. Live music will be provided by Tamra Godey, while magician/juggler Cody Ebert will also be on hand. The Placerville Speedway is located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, 100 Placerville Drive in Placerville. For more information log onto placervillespeedway.com.

Upcoming events Saturday, Aug. 15: Half Priced Burger Night presented by Kings Meats with Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Pure Stocks, Ltd. Late Models and BCRA Lightning Sprints Saturday, Aug. 22: Gold Rush Classic with Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing Winged 410 Sprint Cars

Continued from A1 at the El Dorado County Courthouse in Placerville on Sept. 18 at 10 a.m. Pesce set Cooney’s new sentencing hearing date as Nov. 2 at 8:30 a.m. in Department 1 of the county’s Main Street courthouse in Placerville. Cooney, who is currently not in custody per his pre-trial release conditions that were filed with the court in May, was ordered by Pesce to be present in the courtroom during his sentencing hearing. Per his pre-trial release arrangement, Cooney is required to comply with all program rules for his GPS tracking device, and is prohibited from possessing dangerous or deadly weapons, firearms or replica firearms, ammunition or body or ballistic armor. Cooney also agreed to stay away from PJ’s Roadhouse, the Placerville bar and restaurant where Fiddler

Lighthall. It is additionally noted in the complaint that Cooney harbored, concealed and aided Lighthall with the intent that he might avoid and escape from arrest, trial, conviction and punishment for the alleged crime. An eight-page document obtained by the Mountain Democrat from the El Dorado County Superior Court this week details a plea deal for Cooney in which he agreed to plead guilty in the case against him. He faces a jail sentence of 16-24 months. While standing before El Dorado County Superior Court Judge Jamie L. Pesce on Aug. 3, attorney Adam Clark, who represents Cooney, asked that his client’s sentencing hearing be delayed by three months during the pre-trial phase of the Lighthall felony murder case. Lighthall is scheduled to return to court for his pre-preliminary hearing

was last seen alive during the early morning of Oct. 5, 2024. He is additionally prohibited from

having any contact with Lighthall, and from discussing the case with anyone outside of his defense team.

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A10  Friday, August 7, 2026   Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

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Friday, August 7, 2026

IN THE

KNOW Aug. 7 Neon Pickle will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/ live-music. The Rescue Community Center will host Friday Night Out from 5-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter. com. Olde Coloma Theatre presents “The WateredDown Saloon” or “A Trip Out West” through Aug. 23. For more information visit oldecolomatheatre.com. Jonny Mojo Band will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com. Lynsey and Prime Country will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com. Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “Wolf Play” through Aug. 29. For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre.org. El Dorado Musical Theatre presents “42nd Street” Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net. 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.

Aug. 8 The Marshall Grange hosts a two-day flea market, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring local artisans, small businesses and free hot dogs at 4940 Marshall Road, Garden Valley. People’s Mountain Market takes place 9 a.m. to noon at Garden Valley Park, Garden Valley through mid-October. Enjoy live music with Frenchie & the Suck It Up Buttercups. Boutique Vineyard Market with local artisan vendors will take place 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hart 2 Hart Vineyards in Pilot Hill. 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. Join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra for its BIG Gala at Saureel Vineyards, 1140 Cold Springs Road in Placerville from 5-9 p.m. For more information visit bbbsns.org. Sierra Vista Winery will host Food, Wine and Live Music with Ctrl Alt Delete from 5-8 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com. Toogood Winery Tasting Room in Fairplay will host a Private Port Tasting in the Toogood Wine Cave on Saturday and Sunday beginning at 11:30 a.m. For more information visit toogoodwinery.com. Listen Hear Band will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic. Matt Rainey performs at the ■ See KNOW, page B6

Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

Exchange program delegates perform a dance at the Sayonara Send-Off luncheon held at Gold Trail Elementary School on July 25. The students plan to teach their Japanese counterparts some dance moves during their visit to both Warabi and Fuefuki, Japan.

Sayonara send-off Shelly Thorene Staff writer

S

tudents from El Dorado and Oak Ridge high schools, Camerado Springs Middle School and Gold Trail Elementary School prepared to travel to Warabi, Japan in a cultural exchange program and attended a “Sayonara Send Off at Gold Trail School July 25. El Dorado County People To People International organized the trip and it is the 51st delegation from El Dorado County since the organization’s inception in 1974. Gold Trail School was chosen for the Send-Off as it is home to the actual historical monument honoring the 1869 Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Farm Colony (designated a California Historical Landmark in 1969), which sits right on the school property directly adjacent to historical Wakamatsu Farm. P2P Chapter President Julie Bauer and P2P member Sarah Shaver are the chaperones for the children, ages 13-17 and the journey runs from July 30 through Aug. 8. Two teens are fluent in Japanese and around half of them have previously hosted Japanese students in their homes. The city of Warabi Board of Education and the Fuefuki City Board of Education are sponsoring the trip except for the airline ticket. Lodging and meals are covered and the students need only

bring spending money. “Your kids will be treated like royalty,” Bauer told the parents. “They really love, care for and respect their kids and they love Americans. It doesn’t matter what is happening in the world, they love American culture.”

Preparing for Japan After their arrival in Warabi, the smallest and most densely populated city in Japan, the students will camp from Aug. 4-6 at Mt. Fuji Fifth station, which is halfway up the mountain at 2,300 feet above sea level with stunning views of the area. Bauer warned the students that it will be cold and rainy even though Warabi will be hot and humid. The group will visit some ice caves which she said would be a nice break from the hot weather. She advised the students to bring warm clothes. The homestay and cultural exchange portion of the trip includes a Tokyo excursion, bus tour, city walking tour and family cultural exchange activities. Myrna Hanses, 89 of Carson City, Nev. started the El Dorado County People To People chapter in 1974. Hanses traveled to Warabi last year in a wheelchair. “I don’t know how she did it but she’s incredible. She has aged really well,” Bauer said. Sid Basset of Cameron Park piped up and said, “She even got in a boat.” Bauer corrected him

Eva Mobley, 13 of El Dorado Hills shows a t-shirt depicting a mash-up of California and Japan’s flags designed by delegate and Oak Ridge student Kaida McIntosh. Delegates Michelle Mobley, 15 of El Dorado Hills, center, and Jenna Spong, 15 of El Dorado Hills, right, hold up bandanas that Spong designed. The artwork on the bandana depicts a tree with cherry blossoms, oak leaves, and acorns to represent the two areas. Below, saying it was a kayak.

Embracing a new culture One of the delegates, Rocco Danielson, 17 of El Dorado Hills studied Japanese at Oak Ridge High School for three years and is part of the exchange student program. “I’m trying not to set any expectations going to a foreign place,” he said. “I am excited to experience the culture and meet the family. We talked about going with the flow, kind of monkey see monkey do. Trying to match what’s going on there. They have a different way of living. You have ■ See EXCHANGE, page B10

Photo by Julie Bauer

El Dorado Chapter People To People International founder, Myrna Hanses, 89 of Carson City, right, traveled to Japan last year and is pictured here in a big canoe on the the Arakawa River, which is by Chichibu.

B2

Friday, August 7, 2026

Mountain Democrat

mtdemocrat.com

Studio invites community to kick up their heels at open house News release

W

est Coast Dance Arts invites the community to its sixth annual open house, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8 at 4062 Flying C Road, No. 51 in Cameron Park as the studio kicks off another exciting season of dance, creativity and connection. Founded in 2021 during the height of the

COVID-19 pandemic, West Coast Dance Arts was built on one simple but powerful mission: to bring the joy of dance back to the community when it was needed most. What began as a hopeful vision has grown into a thriving dance family. As the studio enters its sixth season in Cameron Park, it continues to inspire dancers of all ages and experience levels.

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This season, West Coast Dance Arts is proud to offer classes in ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, hip hop and combo classes, providing opportunities for every dancer — from beginners discovering their first plié to experienced performers looking to refine their skills. The open house is an opportunity for families to tour the studio, meet the teaching staff, learn about classes and discover what makes West Coast Dance Arts a welcoming place for every dancer. Whether you’re looking for a recreational class, a creative outlet or a path toward competitive dance, there’s something for everyone.

Dance competitions West Coast Dance Arts is also home to its award-winning competition companies, open to dancers ages 10 and older. These dedicated teams proudly represent the studio throughout the region, performing at beloved community events including the Folsom Veterans Day Parade, Placerville Christmas Parade, Kids Expo and the El Dorado

Courtesy photo

West Coast Dance Arts will hold its sixth annual open house, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8 at its studio at 4062 Flying C Road, No. 51 in Cameron Park. County Fair, while also earning recognition at competitions throughout the Sacramento and Lake Tahoe areas. This December, studio dancers will perform down Disneyland’s Main Street, USA, as part of Disney’s Dance the

Magic Merry Holiday Parade, marking another exciting milestone for the studio. “From our very first day, our goal has been to create a place where dancers feel inspired, supported, and part of a family,” said the West Coast Dance Arts

Executive Director Anelysse Keenan. “As we begin our sixth season, we’re excited to welcome new faces into our studio and continue sharing our love of dance with the community.” Learn more at westcoastdancearts.com.

Almost time for the Daddy Daughter Dance News release

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ne of the best events of the year is just around the corner and the theme will be “Under the Sea.” The 28th annual Daddy Daughter Dance will be held 5-8 p.m. on Sept. 12 at Northside Elementary, 860 Cave Valley Road in Cool. The event is presented by Girl

Scout Troop 822. There will be light appetizers and desserts, along with dancing, crafts, games and a glowing dance off. There will also be a craft table with materials available to decorate picture frames for the complimentary photos that will be taken by the volunteer photographer Serena Lasko. Photos will be taken 5-7 p.m. The

music will be provided by David Justice. The cost is $35 for a Daddy/ Daughter couple and $5 for each additional daughter. Snacks, drinks, crafts and a photo are all included in this ticket price. For more information follow the Dance of the Divide Facebook page and to register and RSVP visit danceofthedivide.com.

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Courtesy photo

Buck Earnest will perform after the Aug. 16 People’s Choice BBQ Pork Rib Cook-Off in Georgetown.

Rib cook-off, live music coming News release

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FW Post 9241 is holding a big event on Aug. 16 — the People’s Choice BBQ Pork Rib Cook-Off and Music in the Park with local favorite Buck Earnest. Guests with Taste & Tell tickets ($10 per guest) will be served 2-4 p.m. Competitors will compete for cash

and prizes, a People’s Choice Award and bragging rights at 3000 Veterans Way, Georgetown. Sunday Funday Music in the Park follows at 4 p.m. The winners of the barbecue will be announced before Sunday Funday. Find all the competition information on the Friends of the VFW Post 9241 Facebook page.

Comedy for a Cause to support IOOF News release

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omedy for a Cause, a fundraiser to help preserve and maintain the historical IOOF Hall in Georgetown and IOOF community programs such as scholarships., will be held 5:30-9 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the IOOF Memento Lodge No. 37, 6240

Main St., Georgetown. There will be a dinner prepared by the Native Sons, 5:30-6:30 p.m., and a no host bar for ages 21 and older (cash only). Tickets are $15. For more information and to buy tickets find the event flyer on What’s Happening on the Divide Facebook page in the “events” tab.

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

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Mountain Democrat

Friday, August 7, 2026

B3

Mystery-adventure brings local landmarks to life News release

serves as the team's Safety & Quality familiar Control Officer. When courthouse, Dixie senses danger historical near a giant oak tree Main Street and by the courthouse, Gold Country charm the pair join a group take center stage in a of local children to new children's novel investigate a mystery written by a Placerville tied to Placerville's author and inspired by past. the community he calls The novel combines home. adventure with lessons William Bouldry is about curiosity, preparing to release courage, teamwork "The Adventures of and the importance Moss Boss & Dixie — of paying attention to Book 1: The Mystery warning signs. It also of the Giant Oak," a aims to encourage full-color illustrated young readers to mystery-adventure develop a deeper for readers ages 8-12. appreciation for local The book has a target history and community pride. local release date of Inspired by Aug. 15, although final hometown roots availability will depend One of the story's on when printed most personal inventory is secured. elements is Dixie, Rather than using who was inspired by Placerville as a “The Adventures of Moss Boss & Dixie — Book 1: The Mystery of Bouldry's real-life dog. simple backdrop, the Giant Oak” will be available mid August. The combination of Bouldry makes the fictional characters and city's recognizable authentic Placerville landmarks and history an integral part of the story. settings gives local readers an opportunity to see The adventure unfolds among familiar locations, familiar places transformed into the setting for an including the area surrounding the El Dorado adventure. County Courthouse and Placerville’s Main Street, Designed for middle-grade readers, the book is blending mystery with local history and Gold also intended to appeal to families, classrooms and Country character. libraries. Collectors may also be interested in the The story follows Moss Boss, an exterior-cleaning limited-edition hardcover release. professional, and his canine partner, Dixie, who

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Silent disco, new art exhibit headline Midtown Second Saturday Aug. 8 Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

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ACRAMENTO — A free silent disco, a new temporary art exhibit and a full slate of live music, gallery receptions and familyfriendly activities will highlight Midtown Second Saturday on Aug. 8. Presented by the Midtown Association, the monthly event transforms the Midtown district into a celebration of local arts, music, food and culture. Organizers expect nearly 9,000 visitors throughout the day as programming begins with the Midtown Farmers Market and continues into the evening with performances, exhibitions and special events at businesses and venues across the neighborhood. The featured attraction will take place from 6-9 p.m. at Winn Park, 1616 28th St., where attendees can participate in a free silent disco. Additional activities include food available for purchase from the La Minerva food truck, complimentary educational wine sampling for adults 21 and older provided by the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op and sidewalk chalk art. The event also marks the opening of “Coordinates: Dispatch,” a temporary ticketed exhibition curated by Sites of Vacancy inside the historic 1937 Art Deco Fire Alarm Station building at Winn Park. Running through Oct. 10, the exhibit features newly

commissioned works by nearly 30 local artists. Timed admission is required, with visits limited to 60 minutes, and proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the participating artists. Visitors can also explore the selfguided Midtown Mural Trail, which debuted earlier this summer. Using a free digital pass, participants can visit featured murals throughout the district, hear recorded commentary from participating artists and earn raffle entries by checking in at designated locations. Featured artists for August include JM Knudsen, Maren Conrad, Few and Far Women, Raphael Delgado and Uli Smith. The Midtown Farmers Market will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a bubble art activity presented by Fire Pixie Entertainment and live music by singer-songwriter Alpina Basnet. Several Midtown businesses and galleries will also offer special programming throughout the day. Highlights include live music at Anchor & Tree Coffee Roasting Co., artist workshops at Balance Coffee Shop and evening receptions at Archival Gallery, b. sakata garo, Prism Art Space and Slither Gallery. Harlow’s and Hyatt House will also host live music performances. Midtown Second Saturday is held monthly from May through October to showcase Midtown Sacramento’s arts and culture, local businesses and creative community.

Open Studios return to the MACC News release

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ANCHO CORDOVA — The Mills Station Arts & Culture Center will once again serve as a hub for Sacramento Open Studios this fall, hosting a weekend of art, music and community events Sept. 18-20. The 2026 “Sac Open Studios at the MACC” event begins Friday, Sept. 18, with a kick-off celebration from 6-9 p.m. featuring live music by FBI Band, a food truck and an opportunity to meet all 17 participating artists. Open Studios continues Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission includes free parking, and visitors also can reach the center via Sacramento Regional Transit’s light rail system. The participating artists represent a variety of styles and mediums and include Allyson Gunnell, Carol Clark, Carole Rossi, Celeste Budd, Cheryl Gleason, Christine Kerr, Deborah Kelly, Elaine Schaefer-Hudson, Erin O’Brien, Johyne Geran, Judy Naylor, Kim Brownell, Ron Hall, Sheri Burrill Ely, Susan Pine, Tana Smith and Sid and Donine Wellman. For more than eight years, the Mills Station Arts & Culture Center, commonly known as the MACC,

has served as a gathering place for artists and the broader community. In addition to hosting exhibitions, the center offers monthly concerts by local bands, artist talks, workshops, documentary screenings and other cultural programming throughout the year. The MACC regularly features exhibitions by regional artists while also bringing traveling exhibitions from nationally recognized institutions, including the Smithsonian Institution. Organizers say the center is designed to offer something for a wide range of visitors, whether they are interested in taking an art class, attending a concert, learning from working artists or simply exploring the galleries. The Sacramento Open Studios weekend provides visitors with the opportunity to meet artists in one location, learn about their creative processes and purchase original artwork directly from those who created it. The Mills Station Arts & Culture Center is located in Rancho Cordova. More information, including tickets for the Sept. 18 kick-off event and a calendar of upcoming programs, is available at rcmacc.org.

The retail paperback features a 136-page full-color illustrated interior. A separate Founders Special Edition hardcover expands to 138 pages with two exclusive pages available only in that edition. Bouldry is targeting an Aug. 15 release for the first installment in what is planned as "The Adventures of Moss Boss & Dixie" series. Readers interested in following the project or preordering a copy can find additional information at 530pressurepros.com/books. Final release timing will be confirmed once printing is complete.

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Worship Directory CHURCH OF CHRIST Rescue 4200 Green Valley Road, Rescue Sunday Bible classes, 9:30 a.m. Sunday morning worship, 10:30 a.m. Sunday evening worship, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible study, 6:00 p.m

SOLID ROCK FAITH CENTER DIAMOND SPRINGS Pastor Don B. Pritchard 6205 Enterprise Dr., Diamond Springs Church 642-2038 Sunday Services 10:00 a.m. “Ministering to every need and every life the power of Christ’’

MOUNTAINSIDE CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING

Serving the community for over 50 years. Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. Placerville Town Hall 549 Main Street Visitors Always Welcome Our Mission: “To offer the teachings and wisdom that supports an expanding Spiritual awareness of Love and the Divine Within.” www.mountainsidecsl.org

For Information Call Elizabeth Hansen at 530-344-5028

Main Street Theatre Works presents

Directed by John Ewing

A comedy of epic proportions

“It’s so loud! I didn’t know it would be so loud!”

Fridays and Saturdays

August 7–September 5 Gates open at 6:30 p.m. for picnics. Show starts at 8 p.m.

Kennedy Mine Amphitheatre • 1127 N. Main Street, Jackson Tickets and info:

MSTW.ORG

B4  Friday, August 7, 2026   Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Photos by Zach Melchiori

Residents from Eskaton Village Placerville visit the Crocker Art Museum as part of Eskaton and Crocker’s CreativeAging initiative.

Creative Aging partnership expanded Two mission-driven organizations join forces to enrich the lives of older adults News release

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skaton, a leading nonprofit provider of senior living and services in Northern California, and the Crocker Art Museum, California's oldest art museum, announced the continuation of their partnership to expand the museum's Creative Aging programs. The collaboration

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brings together two mission-driven organizations around a shared belief that creativity, connection and lifelong learning are essential to a meaningful life at every age. Together, Eskaton and the Crocker offer a suite of art experiences designed for older adults, including Senior Studio, Meet Me at the Museum and Art Rx. The programs invite participants to explore the museum's collection, create original artwork alongside trained teaching artists and build community with fellow art enthusiasts. The partnership also brings docent-led activities directly into Eskaton communities and culminates in a community exhibition at the Crocker showcasing artwork created by Eskaton residents. "Art has a way of opening doors that nothing else can," said Sheri Peifer, president and CEO of Eskaton. "Our partnership with the Crocker is one of the most meaningful collaborations we have. Together, we give our residents and the broader community of older adults a place to gather, create and feel deeply seen. We are proud to walk alongside one of the great cultural institutions of our region in service of that work." The Crocker serves about 35,000 people each year through more than 300 educational programs for audiences ranging from toddlers to older adults. The Creative Aging initiative is one of the museum's signature offerings for older adults and was developed to reflect their interests and experiences. The partnership will take center stage in November, when the Crocker hosts an exhibition of artwork created by Eskaton residents. The exhibition will invite visitors to experience the creativity, perspectives and artistic voices of older adults from across the Sacramento region while celebrating the partnership between the

Residents from Eskaton Village visit the Crocker.

two organizations. "The Crocker's partnership with Eskaton continues to provide seniors with invaluable creative resources that promote well-being, creativity and community," said Javier Plasencia, director of education at the Crocker Art Museum. "Creative Aging is about building

community, and we are fortunate to have Eskaton residents not only attending the museum but actively contributing to our programming. This is what partnership in action looks like." In addition to select complimentary programming, the n See CREATIVE, page B7

mtdemocrat.com

Mountain Democrat   Friday, August 7, 2026  B5

Photo by Cecil Stoughton / White House, public domain

President John F. Kennedy championed the arts as essential to American life, believing artists deepen understanding, challenge power and strengthen the nation’s spirit.

Recognition of the place of the artist

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n Oct. 26, 1963, President John F. Kennedy visited Amherst College for a gathering that honored poet Robert Frost. The ceremony also marked the groundbreaking for a library that would bear Frost’s name. Frost had died earlier that year, but his voice filled the occasion. Kennedy praised him as an artist who had strengthened the nation’s spirit. Then he spoke about the importance of all artists in American life. “I see little of more importance to the future of our country and our civilization than full recognition of the place of the artist,” Kennedy said. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum keeps the full speech in its online archive. More than 60 years later, Kennedy’s words lead us naturally to the places that welcome artists close to home. This August, one of our region’s major arts centers celebrates a milestone. A newer outdoor venue brings theater into the heart of historical Folsom. In Placerville, musicians will perform beneath the evening sky. Each setting makes room for the artist.

A hall becomes a home The Harris Center for the Arts celebrates its 15th anniversary Aug. 15 with The Crystal Affair. A 15-year milestone deserves a little sparkle. Since opening in 2011, the Harris Center has welcomed touring performers, local arts groups, students, dancers, actors and musicians. It has also welcomed the people who complete every performance: the audience. A theater begins as walls, seats, light and a stage. Over time, something changes. Memories settle into the

Susan Laird The Arts building. We remember the first notes of a concert, the hush before a curtain rises and the laughter that rolls across a full house. We remember a child’s first musical or a performance that reached us when we needed it most. Once a mere vision for decades, the Harris Center is now a regional home for the arts. The Folsom Lake Symphony, the first group to perform on the Harris Center stage when it opened, returns for the anniversary. The symphony will present The Best Movie Scores of John Williams. Williams gave sound to some of our most vivid movie memories. A few notes can bring back a shark fin cutting through dark water, a bicycle crossing the moon or a young wizard entering a world of wonder. The preconcert celebration runs 5:30-7 p.m., with food, wine and other beverages. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets include both events. The Harris Center is located on the Folsom Lake College campus at 10 College Parkway in Folsom. Tickets are available at harriscenter. net or call (916) 6086888.

An outdoor stage shares its voice The Zittel Family Amphitheater offers a different experience. The outdoor venue opened in 2012 in the heart of Folsom’s Historic District.

Sutter Street Theatre brings its local production of Disney’s “Newsies,” a Broadway musical, to the amphitheater Aug. 7. Inspired by the newsboys’ strike of 1899, the musical follows young newspaper sellers who find strength when they stand together. Its soaring songs, lively dancing, and youthful courage should feel right at home under the stars. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25, available at sutterstreettheatre.com. Bring a low-back chair or blanket. The amphitheater is at 200 Wool St.

Music beneath the foothill sky In Placerville, the land helps create the stage. The American River Conservancy welcomes Red Dirt Ruckus to Wakamatsu Farm, 5:309:30 p.m. on Aug. 15. The Placerville band calls its blend of bluegrass, rock, reggae and funk “Foothill Rudegrass.” Picture friends unfolding chairs as evening settles over the farm and music drifts through the oaks. Concert proceeds support restoration and disaster recovery on lands protected by the conservancy. Wakamatsu Farm is located at 941 Cold Springs Road in Placerville. Register through the events calendar at arconservancy.org. President Kennedy called for recognition of the artist’s place in our culture. Our region answers with a milestone concert hall, a community amphitheater, and an open field filled with music. The performing arts are alive and well. August has taken the stage. Send your event for consideration in Susan’s column to slaird@ handywriting.com.

Have an event, show or fundraiser coming up? Send us the details and we’ll help spread the word! Email: andrewv@mtdemocrat.net

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:

mited. Space is li hoto

lettyb@mtdemocrat.net to be included in this

p Send youray! in tod

year’s Happy Healthy Pets special publication Submissions

must be rece ived by Sept. 11, 20 26

Be sure to include pet’s name, name of pet’s owner, city of residence and the pet’s favorite activity. Photos will be considered for Happy Healthy Pets, published inside both the Mountain Democrat and Village Life in September. (Please no photos of pets that have appeared in past editions.)

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B6  Friday, August 7, 2026   Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Know

Continued from B1

Georgetown Hotel on Main Street in Georgetown. Suika T performs 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Troublemakers in Lotus. Jazz Gitan Trio performs at 6 p.m. at Marco’s Café in Lotus.

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

The Veterans Memorial Building Council will host its Veterans Breakfast from 8-11 a.m. Proceeds support the work and initiatives at the Veterans Memorial Building in Placerville.

Sierra Vista Winery will host Sunday Brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.

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

Harlan will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit

The Geoffrey Miller Band will perform at 2 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery. com/live-music.

Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host Live Music and WoodFired Pizzas with Zach Olmos at 1 p.m. For more information

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NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

Crossword ACROSS 1 Long, detailed tales 6 Binds together 10 Russia’s Peter the Great, e.g. 14 Hertz competitor 15 Muppet with a noted feud with a pet rock 16 Jane Austen title character 17 Event that might include juggling, singing and magic tricks 19 ___ wave (summer phenomenon) 20 Northern neighbor of Namibia 21 Eat, as cattle might 22 Serpent seen on a sarcophagus 24 Looks of total confusion 27 Calm, as a lake 29 Bard of ___, nickname for Shakespeare 30 Intellectual thoroughness

31 Olden days 33 Texter’s “If you ask me…” 36 Three-part fire safety technique 40 Opposite of NNW 41 Give the boot 42 When farmers typically wake up

61 “Frozen” princess 62 Hall-of-Fame hoopster Thomas 63 Where Eve reached for the forbidden fruit 64 Grammy-winning singer Lisa 65 Like the crying face emoji

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Tuesday, August 11, 2026

Crossword ACROSS 1 ___ ghanouj 5 Like a couch potato 9 “Rise and shine!” 14 Patron saint of Norway 15 Combustible rock 16 No longer in dreamland 17 Charisma 18 “Orinoco Flow” singer 19 Like a credit card at its limit 20 *Surfer girls, in old lingo 23 Ease off 24 D.C. URL ending 28 *Frankfurters 31 Easy mark for a hustle 32 Subject of Weird Al Yankovic’s “The White Stuff” 33 Common car freshener scent 34 Score that’s better than a bogey

35 “Barbie” actress Issa 36 *Relative of a grizzly that’s named for its bright chest patch 39 Umpire’s clenchedfist call 40 Sgt., but not pvt., e.g. 41 Orgs. that may hold raffles 42 Mechanical memorization 43 Accessories pointed at the North Pole? 45 *Internet browser borrowing a nickname for the red panda 48 Slander 49 What to call people … or what not to call people

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Word of Mouth Storytelling hosted by Amber “Lucky” Stann: “When the World Stopped; Stories from the Time of COVID” will take place, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Senior Helpers Cameron Park will host a Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment Group from 1-2:30 p.m. at Foothills Church, 2380 Merrychase Drive, Cameron Park. For questions contact Jillien Erdman at jerdman@seniorhelpers.com. Attendees should call (916) 4614123 to register.

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Join American River Conservancy for an Introduction to Pottery and Wheel Throwing Class from 6-8 p.m. Registration required. For more information visit arconservancy.org.

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Poor Red’s in El Dorado will host Lo Gents, a rock, blues and funk experience from 4-7 p.m. For more information visit poorreds. com.

West Coast Performing Arts Concerts presents Motown Mania! 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.

Mark Morris Contest c/o

2889 Ray Lawyer Dr., Placerville, CA 95667 https://www.redfi n.com/agent/mark-morris The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation DRE# 02050961 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 For Information Email: syndicate-service@nytimes.com For Release Monday, August 10, 2026

Monday, August 10, 2026

Hither & Yon will perform, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

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Vitalant will hold a Blood Drive at Oddfellows Hall, 6240 Main St. in Georgetown, from 1:30-4:45 p.m. To make an appointment use code SMFM028 and call (877) 258-4825 or visit donors.vitalant.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. Hangtime Music Festival Ticket Release Party featuring Joe Craven & members of Golden Cadillacs will take place, 7-9 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Aug. 12 Join American River Conservancy for Wednesday Workdays at Wakamatsu at 8 a.m. For more information visit arconservancy. org. SIR Gold Country Branch is holding its Monthly Luncheon meeting with a guest speaker at 11:30 a.m. at the Cameron Park Country Club. Lunch is complimentary for guests. Contact the branch’s membership chairman at SIRBranch95@gmail. com for more details. SIR is an organization which offers social activities for men over 50. To learn more visit wearesir.com. Capital Stage in Sacramento presents Playwrights’ Revolution New Play Festival staged reading of “The Abundance” at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.

PUZZLE BY BRAD LIVELY

21 “Curb Your Enthusiasm” network 22 “Let It Go” singer Menzel 25 Vanish into thin air 26 Acting unthinkingly 27 Geometrical corner 28 Like a triceratops 29 Delphi prophet 30 Start a long drive, in a way 31 Tell a tall tale 33 “This Old House” network

36 Monty Python musical with a portmanteau title 37 Absolute, as nonsense 38 “Illmatic” rapper 42 What doers produce 44 Luau locale 45 Obsessive pop culture subculture 46 “Count me in!” 47 Yellow card wielder 49 Job for Mrs. Doubtfire

51 Sled dog command 52 Number of years that George Washington lived in the White House 53 Last U.S. national park alphabetically 54 Bowen formerly of “S.N.L.” 55 High card 56 Hightailed it 57 “___ be my pleasure!”

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Now Tickets are available for Images of Hope’s annual Picnic in the Orchard featuring cuisine from John Sanders of Old Town Grill, musical entertainment from Hither & Yon and silent and live auction opportunities taking place on Aug. 15, 4-8 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards, 2569 Larsen Drive in Camino. For tickets and more information visit imagesofhopeeldorado.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 at Mills Station Arts & Culture Center, 10191 Mills Station Road, Rancho Cordova. Call open through Sept. 16. For more information visit placervillearts.com. Arts and Culture El Dorado will host Rubicon Rising through Aug. 16. at the Switchboard Gallery, 525 Main St. in Placerville. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org. The El Dorado Hills Arts Association will host its Membership Show, Perspectives, at The Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom through Aug. 20. For more information visit eldoradohillsarts.com. Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Hot August Days through Sept. 20. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com. Tickets are available for Fairytale Town’s Tales and Ales to take place Aug. 22 from 5-9 p.m. in Sacramento. For more information visit fairytaletown. org. Broadway at Music Circus presents “Hell’s Kitchen” through Aug. 9 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento. com. 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 at the de Young in Golden Gate Park through Jan. 31, 2027. Learn more at famsf. org. Cantiga Wineworks, 5980 Meyers Land in Somerset, is having Happy Hour with Fritz on Fridays from 3-6 p.m. Come for the wine, stay for the games, conversation and community. For more information call (530) 621-1696. Miraflores Winery, 2120 Four Springs Trail in Placerville, is having Sparkling Sundays, the one day of the week where two fabulous sparklers are poured. Try a complimentary tasting of Blanc de Noirs and Brut. Both are crafted with organically grown grapes from Sonoma County and created in the traditional Methode Champenoise style. For more information call (530) 647-8505 or email info@ mirafloreswinery.com. The Mom Walk, Sip and Stroll meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at El Dorado Hills Town Center amphitheater. It’s a great way to get active with other local moms. Marco’s Café in Lotus hosts a family friendly Open Mic Night Thursdays from 6-8:30 p.m. For more information visit marcoscafelotus.com. Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open the first Saturday of the month November through February for open garden days. Take a leisurely stroll through all 16 themed gardens. Docents are on-site to assist you with any questions regarding the Sherwood Demonstration Garden or your personal gardens. May be closed for inclement weather, high temperatures or poor air quality — check before visiting: ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_Master_ Gardeners/Demonstration_ Garden. Parking permits are required, purchase a $2 permit at any parking lot kiosk.

mtdemocrat.com

Mountain Democrat   Friday, August 7, 2026  B7

Gala celebrates history while supporting Marshall Gold Discovery News release

T

he Gold Discovery Park Association will host its second annual Golden Hour Gala from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. The fundraiser combines locally sourced food and beverages with live entertainment and a silent auction, while raising money to support preservation efforts, educational programming and community engagement at one of California's most recognizable historical sites. The evening offers guests an opportunity to experience the park in a more intimate setting while helping ensure its stories continue to be shared with future generations. Guests will enjoy appetizers, a seasonal dinner

Creative

and dessert prepared by chef John Sanders. Each ticket also includes two beer or wine drink tickets, with additional beverages available for purchase. Live music and a silent auction will round out the evening, creating a relaxed atmosphere that celebra. Complimentary parking is included with each ticket. Proceeds will help advance the Gold Discovery Park Association's mission of supporting Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park through historical preservation, educational opportunities and programs that connect visitors with California's past. The nonprofit organization works in partnership with California State Parks to enhance visitor experiences through fundraising, volunteer support and community involvement. Its efforts

help preserve the park's historical structures and landscapes while supporting interpretive exhibits, educational events and activities that encourage visitors of all ages to explore the story of the Gold Rush. Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park welcomes thousands of visitors each year who come to learn about the discovery that transformed California and reshaped the American West. As the Gold Discovery Park Association builds on the success of last year's inaugural event, organizers hope the Golden Hour Gala will continue growing into an annual tradition that celebrates both community and history. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit golddiscoveryparkassociation.org.

Continued from B4

partnership provides complimentary museum admission for Eskaton residents, allowing them to visit the Crocker with family members and friends. Eskaton has served older adults in Northern California since 1968 and operates communities offering independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. The organization's mission is to enhance

the quality of life for older adults, and its partnership with the Crocker reflects its long-standing commitment to supporting the cultural and creative life of the communities it serves. For more information about the Crocker Art Museum's Creative Aging programs, visit crockerart.org. Founded in 1968, Eskaton is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older

Public Notices  FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0749 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: KNOLL & PRESS OLIVE OIL, located at 2510 Bedford Avenue, Placerville, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Mark D Nalley, 2510 Bedford Avenue, Placerville, 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: 07/01/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Mark Nalley MARK NALLEY 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 07/13/2026 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) 7/17, 7/24, 7/31, 8/7 16452 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 26CV1912 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Talen James Van Cleave filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: TALEN JAMES VAN CLEAVE Proposed name: TALEN JAMES WILD 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: AUGUST 28, 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 13, 2026. /s/ Hana Balfour HANA BALFOUR, Judge of the Superior Court 7/17, 7/24, 7/31, 8/7 16453 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0757 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 1. UNLUCKY 7, 2. REVENTURE LABS, located at 6132 Western Sierra Way, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762/Mailing Address: 2222 Francisco Dr, Suite 220-549, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: 1. Sean Schroeder, 2222 Francisco Dr, Suite 220-549, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762, 2. Amy JacobsSchroeder, 2222 Francisco Dr, Suite 220-549, El Dorado Hills, CA

95762 This business is conducted by a Married Couple The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 06/21/2022 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Sean Schroeder SEAN SCHROEDER 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 07/14/2026 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) 7/17, 7/24, 7/31, 8/7 16457 APN: 321-192-011-000 TS NO.: 26-12639CA TSG ORDER NO.: 260167636-CA-VOI NOTICE OF TRUSTEE SALE UNDER DEED OF TRUST YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED OCTOBER 5, 2017. 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 November 6, 2017 as Document No.: 2017-004966900 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of El Dorado County, California, executed by: Sean Patrick Carroll, unmarried, 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: August 19, 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.:26-12639CA The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 161 Judy Dr, Placerville, CA 95667-3322. 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: $119,013.17 (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:

adults through communities, services and programs across Northern California. Eskaton serves thousands of older adults each year through independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and community-based services. To learn more about Eskaton, visit eskaton.org. Founded as a public museum in 1885, the Crocker Art Museum brings people together through art,

ideas and shared experiences. The museum houses one of the world's premier collections of California art and is also known for its collections of Old Master drawings and international ceramics. It presents exhibitions, events and educational programs throughout the year. More information is available at crockerart. org.

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

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.# 26-12639CA. 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 26-12639CA 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.:26-12639CA 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) 932-0360 Dated: July 13, 2026 By: Carlos Quezada Foreclosure Associate Affinia Default Services, LLC 301 E. Ocean Blvd., Suite 1720 Long Beach, CA 90802 (833) 290-7452 NPP0491524 To: MOUNTAIN DEMOCRAT & PLACERVILLE TIMES 07/24/2026, 07/31/2026, 08/07/2026 7/24, 7/31, 8/7 16470

Married Couple The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Lisa M Murphy LISA M MURPHY, MARRIED PARTNER 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 07/14/2026 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) 7/24, 7/31, 8/7, 8/14 16478

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0758

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0705

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE ODD BRANCH, located at 2880 Espina Loma Drive, Camino, CA 95709 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: 1. Lisa M Murphy, 2880 Espina Loma Drive, Camino, CA 95709 2. Daniel M Murphy, 2880 Espina Loma Drive, Camino, CA 95709 This business is conducted by a

The following person(s) is/are doing business as: RANCHER SHIELD, located at 4921 Mother Lode Drive, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Dustin M Bermingham, 4921 Mother Lode Drive, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 This business is conducted by an Individual

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0772 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: AUTO DIAGNOSTICS DIRECT, located at 1480 Sand Ridge Rd, El Dorado, CA 95623 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Ragsdale Automotive Solutions LLC, 1480 Sand Ridge Rd, 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: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Joseph Ragsdale JOSEPH RAGSDALE, 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 07/20/2026 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) 7/24, 7/31, 8/7, 8/14 16479

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 06/26/2026 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Dustin Bermingham DUSTIN BERMINGHAM 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 06/29/2026 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) 7/24, 7/31, 8/7, 8/14 16480 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0770 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 1. BARMHAUS BREWING COMPANY, 2. MARSHALL GRADE BREWING COMPANY, 3. THE GRADE BREWERY, located at 3782 Winding Creek Lane, Garden Valley, CA 95633 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Winding Creek Brewery, LLC, 3782 Winding Creek Lane, Garden Valley, CA 95633 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: _______ Signature of Registrant: /s/ Doug Soderstrom DOUG SODERSTROM, 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 07/17/2026 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) 7/24, 7/31, 8/7, 8/14 16481 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 Legal notice continued on the next page

B8  Friday, August 7, 2026   Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Public Notices  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) 16503 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 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) 16504 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 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 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 NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY Preston L. Morgan, SBN 267186 KOPPER MORGAN PC 417 E Street Davis, CA 95616 Telephone: (530) 758-0757 Facsimile: (530) 758-2844 Attorney for Administrator JUDY L. BRYANT IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF YOLO In the Matter of the Estate of ROBERT S. BRYANT Decedent. NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY AT PRIVATE SALE [Prob. Code §§ 10300, 10304, 10306; Gov. Code § 6063] NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Judy L. Bryant, as Administrator of the Estate of Robert S. Bryant, deceased, will sell at private sale, to the highest and best bidder, subject to confirmation by the above-entitled Superior Court, on or after Monday, August 10, 2026, at the office of Shannon Yoffie, 4359 Town Center Blvd. #217, EI Dorado Hills, California 95762, all right, title, and interest of the estate, consisting of a one-third (1/3) undivided interest, in and to the real property in the unincorporated area of Grizzly Flats, County of El Dorado, State of California legal described as follows: Lot 32, of Grizzly Park No. 9, filed June 27, 1979, in Book F of Maps, at Page 100, El Dorado County Records, EXCEPTING THEREFROM all oil, gas and other hydrocarbon and all minerals beneath a depth of 1900 feet and the extra lateral right to remove the same without disturbing the surface of said land, as conveyed in the deed to Thomas H. Porter, et ux, recorded July 3, 1979, in Book 1777 of Official Records, Page 322, commonly known as 5720 Blue Mountain Dr., Grizzly Flats, California 95636, Assessor’s Parcel Number 041871-002-000. Bids or offers are invited for this property and must be in writing. Bids or offers will be received at the office of Shannon Yoffie, 4359 Town Center Blvd. #217, EI Dorado Hills, California 95762, or may be delivered to the Administrator personally, at any time after the first publication of this notice and before the making of the sale. TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE: Cash in lawful money of the United States of America. Ten percent (10%) of the amount bid shall accompany the offer by certified or cashier’s check, with the balance to be paid upon confirmation of the sale by the Court and close of escrow. The property is to be sold in its present “as is” condition, without warranty, express or implied, and without any representation as to its condition. Taxes, operating and maintenance expenses, and premiums on insurance acceptable to the purchaser shal I be prorated as of the date of recording of the conveyance. Examination of title, recording of conveyance, transfer taxes, and any title insurance policy shall be at the expense of the purchaser. The sale is subject to confirmation by the Superior Court, and the Administrator reserves the right to reject any and all bids prior to entry of an order confirming the sale. For further information and bid forms, contact Shannon Yoffie at the address set forth above. Date: 7/27/2026 /s/ Preston L. Morgan PRESTON L. MORGAN Attorney for Administrator Judy S. Bryant 7/31, 8/5, 8/7 16507 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF BERNARD JAMES CRANE CASE NO. 26PR0215 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of BERNARD JAMES CRANE A PETITION for Probate has

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been filed by JOHN H. CRANE in the Superior Court of California, County of El Dorado. THE PETITION for probate requests that JOHN H. CRANE 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: August 31, 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. Attorney for Petitioner: EDWARD E ATTALA 1363 Marsh St San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 543-1212 7/31, 8/7, 8/14 16508 NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION Pursuant to the California SelfService Storage Facility Act, Ray’s Self Storage, located at 5714 Pleasant Valley Rd, El Dorado, CA 95623, will hold a public auction. The details of the lien sale are as follows: - Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026 - Time: 10:00 AM - Location: 5714 Pleasant Valley Road, El Dorado, CA 95623 - Items to be Sold: Furniture, appliances, tools, and household items. Successful bidders must present a valid ID (such as a California Driver’s License), pay in cash, and potentially provide a refundable cash cleaning deposit. Unit & Tenant Information: 37 Christian Campini 50 Billy Truby 72 Kelly Krohn 89 Whitney Clark 164 & 169 Melissa and Rafael Tupua 175 Jose Hernandez 237 Rob Miller 272 Marcy Randolph 7/31, 8/7 16509 APN: 099-070-002-000 FKA 099-070-002-100 TS NO: CA09000150-25-1 TO NO: 250526023-CA-VOI NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE (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 December 26, 2012. 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 PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On September 10, 2026 at 01:00 PM, Main Entrance, El Dorado County Superior Courthouse - Placerville Main Street Branch, 495 Main Street, Placerville, CA 95667, MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, as the duly Appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded on December 31, 2012 as Instrument No. 20120069363-00, of official records in the Office of the Recorder of El Dorado County, California, executed by NATHAN D HEIN AND LYDIA HEIN, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS, as Trustor(s), in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., as Beneficiary, as nominee for UMPQUA BANK as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, that certain property situated in said County, California describing the land therein as: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 4740 HANKS EXCHANGE RD, PLACERVILLE, CA 95667 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 without covenant or warranty, express 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. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligations secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of this Notice of Trustee’s Sale is estimated to be $262,722.80 (Estimated). However, prepayment premiums, accrued interest and advances will increase this figure prior to sale. Beneficiary’s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept a 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, savings association or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the California Financial Code and authorized to do business in California, or other such funds as may be acceptable to the Trustee. 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. 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 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 visit the Internet Website address www.Auction.com or call Auction.com at 800.280.2832 for information regarding the Trustee’s Sale for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, CA09000150-25-1. 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 NOTICE TO TENANT FOR FORECLOSURES AFTER JANUARY 1, 2021 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 800.280.2832, or visit this internet website www. Auction.com, using the file number assigned to this case CA0900015025-1 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. Effective March 1, 2026, new federal regulations (89 Fed. Reg. 70.258) may impact residential real property (1-4 residential units) title transfers to covered entities trusts, with reporting requirements unless exempt. https://www.federalregister.gov/ documents/2024/08/29/2024-1919 8/anti-money-launderingregulations-for-residential-realestate-transfers Date: July 21, 2026 MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA09000150-25-1 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 Phone: 949-252-8300 TDD: 711 949.252.8300 By: Bernardo Sotelo, Authorized Signatory SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ONLINE AT www.Auction. com FOR AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: Auction.com at 800.280.2832 NPP0492133 To: MOUNTAIN DEMOCRAT & PLACERVILLE TIMES 07/31/2026, 08/07/2026, 08/14/2026 7/31, 8/7, 8/14 16511 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF BRENT HENDERSON BENETTI CASE NO. 26PR0214 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of BRENT HENDERSON BENETTI A PETITION for Probate has been filed by BONNIE MURDOCK in the Superior Court of California, County of El Dorado. THE PETITION for probate requests that BONNIE MURDOCK 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 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. Attorney for Petitioner: LAURA NELSON-BECKER 263 Main Street Placerville, CA 95667 (530) 617-1692 7/31, 8/7, 8/14 16513 PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE Assembly Bill (AB) 2561 – Annual Report on Vacancies, Recruitment and Retention Efforts Notice is hereby given of a public hearing before the Board of Directors of the El Dorado Hills County Water District (Fire Department) on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, 1050 Wilson Boulevard, El Dorado Hills, California, on job vacancies, and recruitment and retention efforts, as annually required by AB 2561. Effective January 1, 2025, Assembly Bill (“AB”) 2561. (Gov. Code § 3502.3.) requires public agencies to present information on the status of job vacancies at the District, and the District’s recruitment and retention efforts at a public hearing before the District’s Board of Directors once per fiscal year. This notice of public hearing is in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act. (Gov. Code §§ 54950-54963.) Greg Durante, Board President El Dorado Hills County Water District BY: Jessica Braddock, Board Secretary DATED: August 5, 2026 8/5, 8/7 16515 RFP LEGAL NOTICE HAZARDOUS TREE ARBORISTS NEEDED EL DORADO COUNTY FIRE SAFE COUNCIL IS SEEKING PROPOSALS FROM QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS TO PROVIDE HAZARDOUS TREE EVALUATIONS ON THE WESTERN SLOPE OF EL DORADO COUNTY Release Date: August 3, 2026 Closing Date: August 21, 2026 Grant funding has been obtained to assist residents with the removal of hazardous trees on the Western Slope of El Dorado County. The El Dorado County Fire Safe Council is seeking Certified TRAQ Arborists capable of providing residential hazardous tree evaluation services. Please download a complete copy of the Request for Proposal at: www.edcfiresafe.org, or email g r a n t a d m i n @ e d c f i re s a f e . o rg , or contact EDCFSC’s Program Coordinator at (530)957-6270. Please note the bid period closes on 08/21/2026. If you are interested, you must submit a complete proposal before 5:00pm. 8/5, 8/7 16516 RFP LEGAL NOTICE DEFENSIBLE S PA C E EVALUATORS NEEDED EL DORADO COUNTY FIRE SAFE COUNCIL IS SEEKING PROPOSALS FROM QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS TO PROVIDE DEFENSIBLE S PA C E EVALUATIONS ON THE WESTERN SLOPE OF EL DORADO COUNTY Release Date: August 3, 2026 Closing Date: August 21, 2026 Grant funding has been obtained to provide defensible space services to residents on the Western Slope of El Dorado County. The El Dorado County Fire Safe Council is seeking qualified Contractors to perform defensible space evaluations. Please download a complete copy of the Request for Proposal at: www.edcfiresafe.org, or email grantadmin@edcfiresafe. org, or contact EDCFSC’s Program Coordinator at (530)9576270. Please note the bid period closes on 08/21/2026. If you are interested, you must submit a complete proposal before 5:00pm. 8/5, 8/7 16517 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 Legal notice continued on the next page

mtdemocrat.com

Public Notices  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) 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 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16536 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 8/7, 8/14, 8/21 16537

Mountain Democrat   Friday, August 7, 2026  B9

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

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2026-0816

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV2096

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) 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28 16538

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. FB2026-0815 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

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 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 SUMMARY OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 1738 A PROPOSED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PLACERVILLE AMENDING TITLE 10 (ZONING) OF THE PLACERVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH REGULATIONS AND PERMITTED USES FOR LOW-BARRIER NAVIGATION CENTERS IN COMPLIANCE WITH STATE LAW (AB 101) The purpose of the proposed ordinance is to implement Program B-4 (Homeless Low Barrier Navigation Center Use) of the City’s adopted 2021-2029 Housing Element (6th Cycle). This program commits the City to reviewing and changing the Zoning Ordinance to ensure compliance with AB 101 (2019), codified in Government Code Sections 65660 to 65668. The ordinance would take effect 30 days following approval from the

City Council, which is scheduled for proposed action at the regular meeting of August 11, 2026, 5:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 549 Main Street, Placerville. A complete copy of the proposed ordinance may be viewed at the Placerville City Clerk’s office, 3101 Center Street, Placerville. You may also request a copy be mailed or faxed to you at no charge by calling the City Clerk’s office at 530-6425531. Regina O’Connell, City Clerk 8/7 16545 SUMMARY OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 1739 A PROPOSED ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PLACERVILLE AMENDING SECTIONS 10-5-9, 10-5-10, 10-5-11, AND 10-5-12 OF TITLE 10 (ZONING) OF THE PLACERVILLE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH MINIMUM DENSITIES, MODIFY MINIMUM PARCEL AREAS, AND AMEND CONDITIONAL USE PROVISIONS IN MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL ZONES (R-2, R-3, R-4, AND R-5) TO IMPLEMENT HOUSING ELEMENT PROGRAM A-5 (ZOA 26-03) The purpose of the proposed ordinance is to implement Program A-5 of the 2021–2029 Housing Element by establishing minimum densities, adjusting minimum parcel areas, and removing conditional uses that conflict with State housing law. The ordinance would take effect 30 days following approval from the City Council, which is scheduled for proposed action at the regular meeting of August 11, 2026, 5:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 549 Main Street, Placerville. A complete copy of the proposed ordinance may be viewed at the Placerville City Clerk’s office, 3101 Center Street, Placerville. You may also request a copy be mailed or faxed to you at no charge by calling the City Clerk’s office at 530-6425531. Regina O’Connell, City Clerk 8/7 16546 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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND PRE-ADOPTION SUMMARY OF TWO PROPOSED ORDINANCES ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 120 AND TITLE 130 OF THE COUNTY ORDINANCE CODE The Board of Supervisors (Board) will conduct a public hearing to consider adoption of the two Ordinances on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, no earlier than 1:00 p.m., in the Board Meeting Room, 330 Fair Lane, Placerville, California. The first ordinance consists of minor procedural change and text edit to Title 120 (Subdivisions) of the El Dorado County Code of Ordinances consisting of a reduction in the number of copies of a vesting tentative map required for an application submittal from thirty (30) copies to five (5) copies and shall take effect thirty (30) days following the adoption by the Board. The second ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days following the adoption and consists of various amendments to Title 130 (Zoning Ordinance). Specifically, the proposed ordinance would amend the Zoning Ordinance to 1) address minor changes and text modification for clarity; 2) correct errors, ambiguity, or omissions; 3) ensure consistency; 4) address minor procedural changes that are not controversial or clarify industry practice; 5) amend state law requirements that allow or restrict by right uses; 6) incorporate Director Interpretations of various sections of the Zoning Ordinance that have not been appealed; 7) consolidate or renumber previously adopted zoning regulations included in the 2015 Zoning Ordinance Update; and/or 8) incorporate implementation measures outlined in elements of the General Plan. Key amendments include restructuring selected zoning sections, removal of outdated provisions such as Ordinance 5136 regarding temporary RV use, and updates implementing SB 234 to ensure family daycare homes are permitted where residential uses are allowed. Additional revisions address permit clarifications, setback exceptions, telecommunication facility posting requirements, and recreation-related use classifications. The proposed update also incorporates a Director’s Interpretation confirming that fulfillment centers are classified as Industrial-Specialized uses and therefore are not permitted within the Research and Development zone. Staff is recommending the Board find the ordinances to amend Title 120 and Title 130 of the El Dorado County Code Statutorily and Categorically exempt from CEQA under sections 15061(b) (3) (General Rule), 15274 (Family Day Care Homes), and 15305 (Minor Alterations to Land Use Limitations). The full text of both ordinances is available for viewing in the office of the Clerk of the Board at 330 Fair Lane, Placerville, California, and available on the Planning Division Public Notices webpage: https://www. eldoradocounty.ca.gov/Land-Use/Public-Notices-Land-Use-andDevelopment-Services. All persons interested are invited to write their comments to the Board in advance of the hearing. For the current remote options, please check the meeting Agenda no less than 72 hours before the meeting, which will be posted at https:// eldorado.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx. If you challenge the Board’s action in court, you may be limited to raising only those items you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Board at, or prior to, the public hearing. Any written correspondence should be directed to the Board at 330 Fair Lane, Placerville, California 95667 or via e-mail: edc.cob@edcgov.us. 8/7 16486

B10  Friday, August 7, 2026   Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Exchange

Continued from B1 conversations with people on the other side of the world and in my own city. It’s awesome.”

to be careful when you’re out shopping because if you say ‘I really love this shirt’ they’re gonna want to buy the shirt for you. It is such a culture of hospitality. There’s so much in their culture related to anticipating what your guest needs. It’s really admirable to me. They are very polite, too. In my language studies, they respect people’s individuality. They were really interested in me last year because I am tall and blonde. They were taking pictures of me.” Ax Aldrich, 17 of El Dorado Hills is the student translator for the group and is certified bi-lingual. They said they will be translating for the Ryuugakusei (exchange students.) Aldrich plans to move to Japan eventually to teach English through the JET program. “I think that it’s really important for kids to know a second language,” they said. “Japanese is an interesting choice that I fell into during COVID. People shouldn’t shut themselves off to only one language because being literate in another language is eye-opening. I never even realized there’s another world out there and I can have

Sharing culture through dance Before lunch, the students performed a choreographed dance to the tune of “Footloose” which they will perform, along with the ChaCha slide and another line dance for Undokai at Fuefuki. Undokai is a Japanese Sports Day which takes place in school gymnasiums. Aldrich said the delegates will attempt to teach the Japanese students the dances and will dance for them. “We trade performances,” they said. During a delicious lunch, students mingled with experienced travelers who were ready to dispense advice. Some recalled humorous gaffes made in their first encounters with Japanese culture, thereby relieving some of the anxiety the teens may have had. The delegates prepared for their journey over the summer by attending training sessions to learn the regional customs.

Courtesy photo

P2P Chapter President Julie Bauer, center, rear and P2P member Sarah Shaver, center, front, stand with students after they arrived at the Narita International Airport July 30.

International understanding The purpose of the delegation, according to P2P, is to bring together young people in their formative years from different countries to interact, learn from one another and broaden international perspectives and understanding. It also aims to further strengthen

the friendly relationships between the city of Warabi and its partner Fuefuki and communities in Japan with communities abroad, thereby contributing to international peace. The aim of the exchange is to enhance international understanding and friendship through educational, cultural and humanitarian activities involving the exchange of

ideas and experiences directly among peoples of different countries and diverse cultures. Anyone interested in learning more can contact Julie Bauer through edcpeopletopeople.org. Interested individuals are invited to attend its next chapter meeting on Aug. 30 for the delegates’ presentation of their experience in Japan.

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