Mountain Democrat, Friday Jan.30, 2026

County shifting gears to serve the homeless

Noel Stack Editor

Noting the current model of serving the local homeless population has “reached the end of its lifespan,” El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency Director Olivia Byron-Cooper on Tuesday presented a new path to the Board of Supervisors — one that allows for more local control and the development of a permanent homeless navigation center.

That path was unanimously embraced, 5-0, with supervisors supporting an environmental analysis of the planned permanent facility at 300 Forni Road and sta pursuing ways to expedite its construction as well as delegating authority to the county purchasing agent to execute agreements, not to exceed $500,000 cumulatively, for architectural, planning and environmental services for the new site.

The current navigation center on Fair Lane next to the El Dorado County Government Center in Placerville opened in early 2023. It’s a 60-bed, referral only facility following the Housing First model.

“We are very dedicated in our e ort to work with our community partners to identify soft landings for as many people as we can during the transition.”

— HHSA Director Olivia Byron-Cooper

“We have achieved far more than the original goal of the (temporary) navigation center, which was to provide beds in order to clear encampments,” Byron-Cooper said at the Jan. 27 board meeting. “Thanks to the incredible work of our housing and homelessness team, law enforcement, with the support of stakeholders and this board, we have secured permanent housing for over 75 individuals since the site opened.”

Monthly costs at the current navigation center are $185,529, according to the HHSA director’s presentation. The county has a little more than $3.15 million available, which can cover roughly 17 months of operating costs.

“The way we are operating currently is not sustainable,” Byron-Cooper told the board. “You’re all very aware of the volatility of the federal and state budgets.Our allocations are shrinking and the mandates around their use are prohibitive.”

The temporary navigation center is expected to close in March 2027. That site is slated to be

A GOLDEN AGE CELEBRATION

See more photos on A10 ■ See HOMELESS, page A8

Commitment to safe schools, strong communities renewed

Whitney Burke

El Dorado County O ce of Education

Over the last three years, the El Dorado County O ce of Education has steadily strengthened and refined a robust threat assessment process designed to prevent targeted acts of school violence before harm occurs. This work is grounded in a simple but powerful belief: school safety depends on preparation, collaboration and early intervention. Through the continued growth of its multidisciplinary threat assessment team and sustained partnerships with local agencies, EDCOE remains committed to keeping schools safe while supporting students through thoughtful,

awareness. In many cases, threats are shaped by rapidly evolving online cultures, coded language and copycat behavior — factors that can blur the line between provocation and credible intent. The day opened with welcoming remarks from Carey Buchanan, EDCOE’s director of Charter Alternative Programs, who has been leading the county’s threat assessment work for the past three and a half years. The event then continued with opening remarks from key county leaders, including El Dorado County

ESSENTIALS

OBITUARIES

Betty Ellen Fowler (Lehman)

1944 – Dec. 5, 2025

Betty Ellen Fowler (Lehman), our beloved mother, wife, sister, daughter, friend, softball and bocce player, passed away peacefully in her El Dorado Hills home in the early morning hours of December 5, 2025. She was surrounded by love and the presence of her daughters, Christine Fowler and Renee Sloane.

Betty was born in 1944 in Yreka, California, and grew up in Hilt, near the California–Oregon border. She left her hometown in 1962 to attend college at CSU Sacramento, where she was a proud member of the archery team. She later transferred to Shasta College in 1964, where she met the love of her life, Jerry Fowler. They married in 1967 and began building a life together grounded in partnership and commitment.

In 1976, Betty and Jerry moved their young family to El Dorado County. During her daughters’ childhoods, Betty was a full-time mother and later worked part time at Apple Hill and with the El Dorado Hills Community Services District, becoming a familiar presence in the community. Later in her career, she worked for Sunland Analytical, an agricultural laboratory, which was a role well suited to her appreciation for the land and the natural world.

Betty valued a quiet life and found contentment in reading, gardening, caring for her beloved cats, and spending as much time outdoors as possible. Reflective, private, loyal, and thoughtful, she was steady and observant, preferring depth over attention.

Betty and Jerry taught Sunday School together at Church of the Foothills in Cameron Park, reflecting their shared faith and commitment to their community. She also volunteered as a coach for her daughters’ sports teams. Though reserved by nature, Betty found special joy in being a grandmother. Time spent with her grandsons, Gabriel and Jacob Sloane, brought her deep happiness and pride.

Above all else, Betty adored her husband. Their life together was marked by devotion, mutual respect, and constancy.

A private luncheon will be held in January to honor and celebrate Betty’s life.

Norman Anthony Krizl

Feb. 13, 1961 – Jan. 6, 2026

Norman Krizl, age 64, passed away suddenly on January 6 after a brief illness at UCSF hospital in San Francisco with his beloved wife at his side. He is survived by his loving wife Kathy, sisters Maria (Paul) Grimm and Irene Carruthers, brother-in-law Chris (Anne) Kerri, and numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. He loved them so much, and was greatly loved in return.

Norman was born on February 13, 1961, in San Francisco, and moved to Sacramento in 1965. He graduated from Sacramento High School in 1979, and received a BS in Forestry from UC Berkeley in 1985. He married his high school sweetheart Kathy in 1986, and they returned to Sacramento. Norman and Kathy moved to Garden Valley in 1992 after Norman got a job with the U.S. Forest Service in Georgetown. He worked as a forester until 2003 when he started working full time tending the vines in Krizl Vineyard.

Norman served as president of the El Dorado County Farm Bureau and the Georgetown Divide Rotary Club. He was elected to the GDPUD Board of Directors, and was president of the EDC Ag Water Quality Coalition at the time of his death.

Norman loved taking care of the vineyard, cutting firewood, working at ‘the cabin,’ hosting bonfires with lots of barbequing and smoking meat. Norman loved traveling and spending time with friends and family. He touched so many lives, and will be greatly missed by all who were privileged to have known him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 31 at 1 p.m. at the Georgetown IOOF Hall, 6240 Main Street, Georgetown, CA. All who knew him are welcome to eat, drink, and share stories. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Blood Cancer United (formerly the Leukemia Society of America).

Jack Howard Nissen

Oct. 7, 1943 – Jan 6, 2026

Jack Howard Nissen, 82, of Placerville, CA. passed away unexpectedly January 6, 2026.

Jack was born October 7, 1943 to Jack and Ann Nissen in Sacramento, CA. After graduating from Sacramento High School in 1961, Jack went on to earn a degree in psychology at San Francisco State. Jack went on to study law at McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento, CA graduating in 1976. In 1978, first practice as an attorney was with Hefner, Stark & Marois after which he went into private practice in 1978.

Jack was very involved in community service and served as chairman for 10 years at the county bar and fee arbitration committee. For many years he was a leader for the local chapter of the Sacramento SPCA.

In 2008, Jack retired and spent his time focusing on several hobbies, namely photography and woodworking. His work was on display at several local galleries.

Jack was preceded by his father Jack, mother Ann and several cousins. He is survived by his sister Patricia Miller, brother-in-law Jerry Miller, nephew Todd Miller, and former wife Debra Nissen.

A memorial service will be held at Green Valley Mortuary Friday February 27, 2026 at 1 pm. In lieu flowers, the family requests donations be made to Sacramento SPCA and Fat City Kitty.

Robert James

Hendrickson

May 25, 1930 – Oct 27, 2025

Robert “Bob” James Hendrickson, a longtime resident of Shingle Springs, California, passed away on October 27, 2025, at UC Davis Medical Center. Born on May 25, 1930, in Stambaugh, Michigan, Bob grew up in nearby Caspian. He attended Stambaugh High School.

A celebration of life was held January 28th at the Shingle Springs Community Center.

LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES

PLACERVILLE CITY

COUNCIL Placerville City Hall 3101 Center St., Placerville (530) 642-5200

Mayor John Clerici jclerici@cityofplacerville.org

Vice Mayor Nicole Gotberg ngotberg@cityofplacerville.org

Ryan Carter rcarter@cityofplacerville.org

Jackie Neau jneau@cityofplacerville.org

David Yarbrough dyarbrough@cityofplacerville.

org ElL DORADO COUNTY

SUPERVISORS

EDC Government Center 330 Fair Lane, Placerville

District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero (530) 621-5650

District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo (530) 621-5651

District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp (530) 621-5652

District 4 Supervisor

Lori Parlin (530) 621-6513

District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine (530) 621-6577 (Placerville) (530) 573-7918 (South Lake

CONTACT US

Tahoe) CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR Gavin Newsom 1021 O St., Suite 9000 Sacramento 95814 (916) 445-2841 U.S. SENATE Adam Schi B40B Dirksen Senate O ce Building Washington D.C., 20510 (202) 224-3841 Alex Padilla 331 Hart Senate O ce Building Washington, D.C., 20510 (202) 224-3553 Sacramento O ce 501 I St., Suite 7-800 Sacramento 95814 (916) 448-2787

5TH CONGRESSIONAL

DISTRICT Tom McClintock Constituent Service Center 4359 Town Center Blvd., Suite 210 El Dorado Hills 95762 (916) 786-5560 3RD CONGRESSIONAL

DISTRICT Kevin Kiley Constituent Service Center 6538 Lonetree Blvd., Suite 200 Rocklin 95765 (916) 724-2575 STATE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 5 Joe Patterson

District O ce 6030 West Oaks Blvd., Suite 145, Rocklin 95765 (916) 435-0501 STATE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 1 Heather Hadwick

District O ce 113 Presley Way, Suite 10 Grass Valley 95945 (530) 265-0601

STATE SENATE DISTRICT 4 Marie Alvarado-Gil Capitol O ce 1021 O St., Suite 7240 Sacramento 95814 (916) 651-4004

District O ce 4364 Town Center Blvd., Suite 313 El Dorado Hills 95762 (916) 933-8680 EL DORADO IRRIGATION DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2890 Mosquito Road, Placerville (530) 622-4513

Division 1: Paul Penn PPenn@EID.org

Division 2: Pat Dwyer, PDwyer@EID.org

Division 3: Chuck Mans eld, CMans eld@EID.org

Division 4: Lori Anzini, LAnzini@EID.org

Division 5: Alan Day, ADay@EID.org

TO PLACE AN AD

CRIME LOG

The following was taken from EDSO reports: Dec.

11:55

Dec.

Dec.

Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

6:07 p.m. Battery was reported on Artesia Road in Shingle Springs.

9:31 p.m. Battery was reported on Patterson Way in El Dorado Hills.

Dec. 26

9:32 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Dunnwood Drive in El Dorado Hills.

11:02 a.m. Battery was reported at a bar on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

12:48 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

3:05 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of assault with a deadly weapon on Sliger Mine Road in Greenwood. They were listed in custody.

4:21 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Crestline Court in El Dorado Hills.

6:38 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Grassy Creek Way in El Dorado Hills.

11:23 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of possessing a controlled substance, identity theft, petty theft, giving false id to a peace o cer and possessing unlawful paraphernalia on Coach Lane in Cameron Park. They were listed in custody

Dec.

Park. They were listed in custody.

10:22 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Thornhill Drive in El Dorado Hills. 11:58 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Cranberry Lane in El Dorado Hills.

1:54 p.m. Vandalism was

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Community service, business leadership take center stage

Andrew Vonderschmitt Features Editor

Community leaders, small businesses and longtime volunteers were honored at the Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce Awards and Installation luncheon hosted at the Koto Buffet at Red Hawk Casino, recognizing contributions that organizers said help keep El Dorado County “a vibrant and thriving area to live and work.”

The Jan. 22 event opened with the Larry Cameron Award, named for the founder of Cameron Park, celebrating “vision, leadership and commitment to growth.” This year’s honoree was Carole Perusse, a chamber founder and director emeritus.

Chamber President Colette Thiel credited Perusse as a “proud and staunch supporter” whose efforts helped the organization endure challenging years.

Perusse, now retired and living at Ponté Palmero, thanked the crowd and reflected on her many years of involvement, saying she has always tried “to be the best for all of you.”

Paul Burke of Burke Insurance Services was named Ambassador of the Year for recruiting several new members and energizing chamber activities.

“Your enthusiasm, your hard work and ability to bring people together have been instrumental in strengthening our chamber family and our chamber mission,” noted Thiel.

The Public Service Award went to Marshall Hospital.

“Your unwavering commitment to bringing top notch medical care to our communities, along with innovative ideas make a huge difference for countless people in our community and our businesses,” said the chamber president.

Thiel then shared a personal story about the care her mother received during a terminal cancer battle, calling the hospital’s staff “amazing” and expressing gratitude on behalf of both her family and the business community.

President and CEO of Marshall Medical Siri Nelson said the organization strives to put “patients in the center of everything that we do,” acknowledging that while it is not always perfect, it works hard to support the community, staff and providers.

In the business categories, Bre Bertolino, owner of My Bestie’s Closet, received the Startup Business of the Year award after expanding her consignment and retail shop from one unit to two in her first year. Speakers praised her rapid growth, her role in employing local youth and her recognition as Business of the Month for California Assembly District 5.

A new Home-Based Business of the Year category debuted with Angela Honoroff of Mary Kay Cosmetics as its first recipient. A chamber member for more than 25 years, former board member and past ambassador chair, Honoroff was recognized for her longevity, loyal clientele and sustained involvement.

The chamber president also introduced a new President’s Award, created to honor exceptional impact and personal support. The inaugural award went to Amber Jaurequi, a key volunteer and close friend who helped keep chamber operations running during the president’s family crisis and her own family hardships.

The ceremony concluded with the Business of the Year Award going to Wally’s Pizza Bar, a family-owned restaurant praised for strong business practices, mentorship of other restaurateurs and deep community involvement. Co-owner Dan Dreher highlighted the restaurant’s role in launching the El Dorado Leaders for Tomorrow mentorship program, which now serves more than 100 high school juniors from multiple area schools each year.

Dreher thanked the crowd, noting that regular patrons and local partners make the business possible and that the family looks forward to “serving you again.”

The Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization that supports and promotes local businesses and economic vitality in the

and Cameron Park area.

The chamber works to strengthen the community through advocacy, collaboration and business development. Its mission is to advocate, promote and preserve

of

by

a

healthy and diverse business community. For more information about chamber membership and upcoming events visit the website, sscpchamber.org.

EID approves contracts to advance Sterling Hills pipeline project

Chris Woodard Staff writer

The El Dorado Irrigation District Board of Directors approved a series of contracts to move forward with the Sterling Hills Pipeline Improvements Project on Jan. 25. Patrick Wilson, senior civil engineer for the district, reintroduced the project to the board, outlining challenges with the existing force main where wastewater transitions from pressurized flow to gravity. According to Wilson, the current 12-inch asbestos cement pipe and PVC pipelines have limited hydraulic capacity.

The Sterling Hills Pipeline Improvements Project was included in EID’s Capital Improvement Plan, which was adopted in late 2025.

Wilson said multiple lift stations pump into the force main, and the limitations restrict the district’s ability to convey required flows. The project will

install a new 20-inch pipeline to resolve those constraints and allow the system to operate at full capacity once construction is complete.

The Sterling Hills work represents the final segment of a nearly nine-mile force main project that begins at the El Dorado lift station and ultimately conveys wastewater to the Deer Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. Wilson noted that during wet-weather conditions, the system must transmit approximately 2.5 million gallons of wastewater per day.

The scope of work includes installing more than 10,000 linear feet of new 20-inch PVC pipeline, abandoning approximately 2,500 linear feet of existing 12-inch force main, and maintaining service to about 10 customers who will continue receiving service from an existing gravity pipeline. The project also includes installing ductile iron water pipe, temporary bypass piping to maintain service during construction, an odor control unit

Legislation supports Tahoe conservation efforts

Staff report Tahoe Daily Tribune

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S.

Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev.; Jacky Rosen, D-Nev.; Alex Padilla, D-Calif.; and Adam Schiff, D-Calif., on Jan. 27 introduced legislation to deliver more funding to protect the Lake Tahoe Basin.

The Santini-Burton Act of 1980 (S-B Act) authorized the sale of federal land in Clark County to fund the acquisition and management of environmentally sensitive land in the Lake Tahoe Basin for conservation and public access. With the 1980 law, the federal government acquired more than 16,000 acres of land

in the Tahoe Basin. These lands protect Tahoe’s famed clarity and offer world-class recreation opportunities on public lands. However, the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act unintentionally limited the use of funds generated by SantiniBurton to land acquisitions only, and left out ongoing management of those lands.

Cortez Masto’s Santini-Burton Modernization Act would allow

U.S. Forest Service to once again use S-B Act funds to manage public lands in the Tahoe Basin, with an emphasis on protecting lake clarity, reducing wildfire risk, and addressing recreation impacts, all of which were outlined in the original law.

The bill would also expand the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California’s authority to manage lands in the Basin.

“The Lake Tahoe Basin’s stunning blue waters and surrounding evergreen forests are beloved by Nevadans and visitors from around the world,” said Cortez Masto. “As stewards of this national treasure, it is our responsibility to ensure that state, local, and Tribal governments have the tools they need to preserve it for future generations.”

“Lake Tahoe is a crown jewel of Nevada and the West, and we must do everything we can to n See LEGISLATION, page A8

at the transition to gravity flow and pavement restoration in accordance with El Dorado County standards.

The board approved a $7,384,555 construction contract with Mozingo Construction Inc. Wilson told the board the bid came in well below the engineer’s estimate of $11.43 million, explaining that numerous bid items were slightly lower than anticipated, which resulted in a significant overall difference.

Directors also approved a $288,000 contract with ICM Group Inc. for construction management and inspection services, along with a $377,793 contract with Water Works Engineers LLC for construction engineering services.

The total project budget is approximately $9.9 million, which remains below the $13.5 million allocated for the project in the district’s capital improvement plan. The board voted unanimously to approve the contracts.

OPINION

California Commentary

Why does the state even bother with a budget?

nder-

Ustandably, very few California residents follow closely the state budget process which, for the 2026-27 fiscal year, just kicked o with the release of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal. Of course, part of that may be due to the complexity of public finance issues, but the reality is that since 2010 with the passage of Proposition 25, the state has no discernible annual spending plan.

Technically, the timing of passing a budget hasn’t changed. It’s merely that the deadlines in the constitution are ignored.

This column has previously reported on how all phases of the budget dance are fake insofar as they are subject to substantial amendments throughout the year. This happens through so-called “trailer bills” and “junior budget bills,” rendering what was for decades a rational process for fiscal planning into a never-ending convoluted outflow of taxpayer cash.

The real corruption in the budget process — percolating for several years prior — was constitutionalized in 2010 with the passage of Proposition 25, laughingly labeled the On-Time Budget Act of 2010. Its real purpose was to repeal the two-thirds vote requirement for the state budget. Voters were promised three things. First, annual budgets would be passed on time; second, the budget process would be fully transparent; and third, legislators would forfeit their pay if the budget was late. As we now know, all three of these representations were lies.

While the “budget bill” is constitutionally mandated to be enacted by June 15, what the politicians actually pass on that date is a temporary placeholder budget. And it only passes so that legislators can get their pay checks.

The damage Prop. 25 inflicted is hard to overstate. Just last year, a major overhaul in the California Environmental Quality Act was passed as a trailer bill, bypassing many of the normal procedures for enacting legislation. Granted, CEQA reform was needed, but the far-reaching proposal should have been enacted under regular order with more debate and transparency.

The fact that there is no longer a single budget bill, and that money is appropriated 365 days a year, has removed all seriousness in dealing with California’s precarious financial position.

Just a month ago, California’s Legislative Analyst (in a desperate display of wishful thinking) recommended that elected leadership deal with the budget challenges now rather than waiting until we have a full-blown crisis, such as a recession.

“While important components of the state economy are sluggish, revenues are not falling, nor are conditions as bad as they would be in an

■ See COUPAL, page A9

The Not So Weekly Daley

And

Being 98% retired, I have more time to keep up with the news than lots of folks who are still at their jobs, careers, volunteering for good causes, studying for finals or minding the kids so the others can do what they’re doing. Between news segments I’m beginning to look forward to more pleasant fare every four to six minutes. Occasionally it’s a few minutes longer, if the power goes out due to acts of God or man or otherwise.

Letters to the Editor

Give the people their voice back

EDITOR:

On Jan. 21, 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court, in its Citizens United vs. FEC decision, ruled corporations and other groups had a right to spend unlimited amounts of money on elections. This gave the wealthy, including corporations and other entities, even more influence on our government.

The court built on years of precedent, stating that political donations were protected speech and that corporations had constitutional rights by combining the two concepts to allow corporate donations in any amount as long as there was no direct coordination with political campaigns. The court stated that absent coordination, and because disclosure laws allow the public to see who is donating, the risk of corruption was minimal.

The reality was that this ruling greatly expanded the influence of the wealthy and corporations while allowing them to avoid disclosure by donating to nonprofits not required to disclose

their donors. It even potentially allowed for influence from foreign countries to be hidden from American voters and enforcement agencies.

Fortunately, even absent a Supreme Court willing to overturn itself, there are still ways to address this problem.

The most permanent way to overturn this decision is to amend the U.S. Constitution to clearly state that political contributions are not protected speech and the corporations do not have constitutional rights. Not an easy task, to be sure. This would require a two-thirds vote in Congress followed by ratification by three-fourths of the states (or for two-thirds of the state legislatures to propose an amendment followed by ratification by three-fourths of the states). This is a longterm, uphill battle since it requires the support of legislators who have become dependent on their donors to get elected.

Shorter-term measures can help even things out while a constitutional amendment is being pushed

…

Compared to actual events via cable channels, news of bad teeth, plaque psoriasis and gastric distress is relatively informative but way more entertaining. And, unlike the events shown and reported on CNN, Fox, MS Now and a few others, these tragedies are almost all readily fixable. This or

that pill, elixir, change in diet, workout video or online influencer can and will cure what ails us. But! Hearing the compendium of side e ects available in those pills and elixirs will curl your hair if you still have any and will surely curdle your stomach. Failing the modern miracles of chemistry and podcasts, a new Chevy pickup, a free iPhone or bathroom remodel should do the trick, especially when there’s a money-back guarantee (maybe not on the free phone).

On the breaking news front as of Monday night/Tuesday morning, we learned that Customs and Border Patrol Commander at Large Greg Bovino has been demoted and removed from duty in Minneapolis. He has been reassigned, we’re told, probably landing where he won’t

Failing the modern miracles of chemistry and podcasts, a new Chevy pickup, a free iPhone or bathroom remodel should do the trick …

be the go-to talking head for the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement (ICE) activities. Likewise, it was reported there “might” be a movement afoot to muzzle, if not impeach his boss, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. Not surprisingly, Botox, Charmin and Wet AMD news interrupted those reports, so confirmation of their veracity may be delayed a day or two. Update — The president has since announced that Ms. Noem “will not be stepping down.”

This just in — Thanks to the storm crippling two-thirds of the nation, the price of natural gas is up over 8% as of Tuesday morning. No word yet on the costs of Wheaties, Alka-Seltzer, bananas and co ee, or the availability of Charmin.

If you have just emerged from a home with no power for the past several days, you will find out that Alex Pretti (recently killed with 10 rounds fired by ICE agents) had a broken rib from a confrontation with ICE a couple of weeks ago. Hard to resist saying, “And the plot thickens.” Also, it’s reported, “They knew (or at least) may have recognized him from that earlier event.” Monday is Groundhog Day. There’s something to smile about. We can hope.

BTW — As I did, you probably figured that Bovino in Spanish, Italian and Portuguese, derived from the Latin, means cattle or relating to cattle ... for what that’s worth. Chris Daley is a biweekly columnist for the Mountain Democrat.

through. Publicly funded elections would help increase the influence of small donors, especially if we can match their donations with public funds. Disclosure laws that don’t allow secret donations would help voters know who is supporting candidates and ballot measures. Reforming the FEC to allow stronger enforcement of the existing laws would also help.

A majority of Americans of all political persuasions support reforms that would rein in corruption. How can you help? Contact your member of Congress to express support for reform

legislation such as House Joint Resolution 54, We the People Act. Make your voice heard.

DAWN E. WOLFSON Cameron Park

Policy causes angst

EDITOR: M y 82-year-old brother has been incarcerated in the El Dorado County Jail in Placerville for a year and a half. I am not disputing the sentence or the reason for his incarceration. That being said, he is known to

be a very di cult person and extremely volatile on occasion.

I have been visiting him on a regular basis and our visits have been both pleasant and not so much. I know that he has a chronic heart condition and has been recently diagnosed with COPD and is on constant oxygen. I’m not sure how many prescribed medications he has been on since his incarceration. I went to visit him on a regular visiting day and at a regular prescribed time and was told he wasn’t in custody. When I asked the o cer at the visitor window where he was, she told me, “He’s not in custody.” I asked again where he was. She told me she couldn’t disclose that information.

I left the jail confused and concerned about the welfare of my brother. Where was he? Had he been transferred to hospital? Was he dead? I had no idea. I called our attorney and told him the situation and when he called the jail for information, they told him the same thing — “He’s not in custody.” — with no other explanation.

Frantic, I called the local hospital. “No, he’s not a patient here.” I called the El Dorado County Coroner’s o ce to see if they might have him. I left a message of inquiry but had no response. I then called the UC Davis Med Center, but he wasn’t there either.

I again called the jail trying to get more information about the whereabouts of my brother and the only thing they told me was “He’s not in custody” for the umpteenth time. I felt like I was in a Kafka novel.

Finally, I got in contact with a sergeant at the jail who told me, “Yes, he’s in custody but he can’t have visitation.” I asked him why but he declined to tell me. I explained to the sergeant that I was the inmate’s sister and I had been trying to find out where he is since everyone I spoke to only said “he’s not in custody” with no other explanation. I was extremely frustrated and wondered why, when I first went to the jail to visit, they didn’t just tell me that he couldn’t have visitors instead of leaving me wonder where he was, was he in hospital? Was he dead? It was cruel.

I’m sure it’s some sort of internal policy that has to be observed but when I asked for a reason for the policy I couldn’t get an answer. Sometimes it seems like the system is intended to punish the innocent relatives and friends of the incarcerated as well as the guilty. The policy needs to be reconsidered.

CYNTHIA HAYES

Shingle Springs

Announcements

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com

AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net

CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS

CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.

El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR

RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

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

Struggling with life? CELEBRATE

RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.

GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575

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

MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am.

Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses.The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on May 19, July 21, September 15 and November 17, 2025 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.

SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started.

TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization. Do you have an announcement that you would like to include here? Contact Elizabeth Hansen (530) 344-5028 or ehansen@mtdemocrat.net

and support throughout the process were unparalleled. I couldn't have asked for a smoother sell. KUDOS to this amazing team!” -Michael Beck

OUTSIDE WITH CHARLIE

With snow comes avalanche risk January came with some good snow and winter weather. The snow gods turned off the snow machine after that. The result is a meager snowpack. As February takes over there’s hope the snow will again start to pile up in our high country.

Downhill resorts have fantastic grooming machines and extremely skilled people at the controls. As soon as the resorts close the lifts, the men and women who pilot these machines get to work, pushing, piling and grooming the runs.

For the backcountry folks, crosscountry skiers and snowshoers, there are no groomers. For now the hunt for backcountry snow to glide about on means going higher in elevation. For beginners, the going up bit is generally OK. The coming down bit isn’t.

Skiable snow starts around 8,000 feet as of this writing. Anything below that presents very little coverage — slushy meadows, running streams that have to be crossed and places where taking off the xc units or

snowshoes makes more sense than hopping from snow patch to snow patch. That also means getting into avalanche territory. In this snowpack, even though it’s not spectacular, there have already been avalanches throughout the mountains. In general, snow in the mountains means avalanches in the mountains. Every day at downhill resorts ski patrollers are out checking the slopes for potential avalanche problems, well before any skiers show up. If the patrollers recognize a problem, they intentionally do what they can to start an avalanche. They toss hand held explosives onto the problem area. When this works it removes the danger to the ski crowd. They are sometimes referred to as controlled avalanches. There’s no such thing. Avalanches roar down hill until they run out of energy. They cannot be controlled or stopped. They knock over large trees, sweep up boulders, bury everything in their

Law’s expansion aims to keep people safe

News release

California’s expanded “Slow Down, Move Over” law officially took effect Jan. 1, adding lifesaving protections for all stranded drivers and passengers on the roadside. The strengthened requirement compels drivers to move over, or slow down if unsafe to do so, for any stopped vehicle using hazard lights or emergency indicators, including everyday drivers experiencing mechanical trouble or emergencies.

The change, authorized under Assembly Bill 390, legislation sponsored by AAA, comes during a nationwide spike in roadside deaths that safety leaders are calling a crisis.

With AB 390 now in effect, California joins 28 other states, and the District of Columbia, with expanded Slow Down, Move Over protections to include all stopped vehicles.

Violations in California can result in:

• Fines up to $1,000, and

• Points on a driver’s record for unsafe behavior near stopped vehicles.

Roadside deaths are rising

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, using data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System, reveals roadside fatalities are rising sharply. In California, the number of people killed roadside increased nearly 77% from 2014 to 2023. This alarming trend in people killed roadside is driven by higher speeds, distracted driving and limited shoulder space on modern freeways, data shows.

Additional recent national findings highlight the severity of the problem:

• According to the Emergency Responder Safety Institute, 46 emergency responders were killed last year in the U.S. after being struck while assisting at roadside scenes — police officers, firefighters, EMTs and tow truck operators.

• Tow operators face some of the deadliest conditions on America’s

roadways.

• Hundreds of stranded drivers are killed every year while waiting for help or attempting simple fixes like changing a tire.

The Auto Club of Southern California says these numbers reflect a growing crisis, not isolated incidents.

“Slow Down. Move Over, and let’s protect every person stranded on our roadways. Together, we can turn a moment of caution into a statewide culture of care,” said Toks Omishakin, California Transportation Secretary. “Under the leadership of Gov. Gavin Newsom, the California State Transportation Agency, Office of Traffic Safety, California Highway Patrol and Caltrans are coming together to make roadside stops moments of safety, not tragedy.”

“Whether you’re a stranded driver or a first responder, standing just feet from high‑speed traffic has become increasingly deadly,” said Auto Club Corporate Communications Manager Doug Shupe. “This law equips California drivers with a clear, enforceable rule that can prevent more needless deaths.”

“Everyone traveling on California’s

ED Transit expanding routes

Erik Bergren

El Dorado Transit

El Dorado Transit will add two commuter runs to its Sacramento Commuter service. A total of eight trips will occur effective Feb. 9, in both the morning and afternoon. Buses will run in 20 minute intervals, except for the last AM and PM run, which will be 40 minutes.

Effective Feb. 7, El Dorado Transit will also extend local route 25 Saturday Express, with trips from Pollock Pines Safeway to the Iron Point Light Rail Station in Folsom. The improved 25 Saturday Express

will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and include 11 total runs. This is in addition to the local routes connecting the communities of Pollock Pines, Camino, Placerville, El Dorado, Diamond Springs, Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, El Dorado Hills and Folsom that operate Monday through Friday.

Eskaton Lincoln Manor, Safeway Plaza (Missouri Flat Road) and Prospector’s Plaza bus stops will now be serviced by the 25 Saturday Express and 35 Diamond Springs Saturday will no longer operate.

For complete route information visit eldoradotransit.com.

California Franchise Tax Board advises taxpayers on USPS updates and filing deadlines

SACRAMENTO — The California Franchise Tax Board is alerting taxpayers and tax professionals to recent updates to the United States Postal Service transportation procedures that may affect postmark dates on mailed tax returns, payments and other time sensitive correspondence.

Effective Dec. 24, USPS implemented a final rule adding Section 608.11 to the Domestic Mail Manual, clarifying that machine applied postmarks will generally reflect the date mail is first processed at a regional facility rather than the date an item is dropped off at a local post office or mailbox. Under this new system, the postmark date may occur days after a taxpayer deposited mail with USPS, potentially causing mailed filings to be untimely.

Per the USPS website:

“... [W]e have made adjustments to our transportation operations that will result in some mailpieces not arriving at our originating processing facilities on the same day that they are mailed. This means that the date on the postmarks applied at our processing facilities will not necessarily match the date on which the customer’s mailpiece was collected by a letter carrier or dropped off at a retail location.

roadside

tow truck drivers and other stopped vehicles on the side of the road or shoulder. Make safety the destination we all share by looking out for every vehicle and person on the roadside.”

What’s at stake

Daniel Lazaro, a tow truck operator for Preferred Towing, lost his friend at the roadside in October last year. Carlos Trejo, 57, was struck and killed while helping a stranded auto club member on 1 110.

“Carlos was a caring person who would always bring up his family in a joyful and proud way, especially his grandchildren,” said Lazaro. “As he would clock out every day to go home, he would always tell everyone clocking in to be careful and to be safe out there.”

Understand the law

roads and highways deserves to arrive safely at their destination,” added Caltrans Director Dina El Tawansy. “The provisions added to the Move Over law will help keep more people safe and continue protecting the highway workers and first responders risking their lives to serve others. When we make conscious decisions to benefit the safety of our fellow travelers and dedicated public servants, it creates a safer, more enjoyable travel experience for all.”

“Too many Californians are losing their lives simply because passing drivers fail to slow down or move over,” noted CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee. “This expanded law makes clear that every person on the roadside, whether a driver or a passenger, deserves the same margin of safety. Obeying ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ is not just a courtesy; it is a legal responsibility that saves lives.”

“As you head out on your next trip, keep in mind that the driver with a flat tire or other roadside car trouble could very well be you,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “Please move over a lane or slow down for highway workers, first responders,

An October 2025 national study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found:

• 36% of drivers captured on roadside video did not slow down or change lanes — violating the law entirely.

• Drivers were least likely to protect tow operators, with only 58% complying near stopped tow trucks.

• Two‑thirds of drivers said they were familiar with “Slow Down, Move Over” laws, yet many could not accurately explain what was required.

• The research also found that while some drivers do change lanes, many fail to reduce speed, leaving dangerously little margin if something goes wrong.

Simple rules that save lives

As of Jan. 1, drivers must take these simple actions when approaching a stopped vehicle:

1. Change lanes away from the stopped vehicle, if safe to do so.

2. If changing lanes is not possible, slow down to a safe, reasonable speed. The message is clear: See hazards or a stopped vehicle? Slow down. Move over. Save a life.

As before, a customer can ensure that a postmark is applied to his or her mailpiece, and that the date on the postmark matches the date of mailing, by visiting a Postal Service retail location and requesting a manual (local) postmark at the retail counter when tendering their mailpiece. Manual postmarks will be applied free of charge.”

“The recent USPS changes highlight the importance of knowing how your return will be postmarked when submitting it by mail,” said State Controller and FTB Chair Malia M. Cohen. “Under the new system, a mailed return may not be postmarked until it reaches a processing facility, which may be days after drop off. To help taxpayers avoid late filings and penalties, I strongly encourage e filing whenever possible, and recommend requesting a manual postmark at a USPS retail counter if filing by mail.”

To avoid a late tax return, tax payment, or other filings, FTB strongly encourages taxpayers to consider e filing and making e payments if possible.

For those who must file or pay by mail, taxpayers can help ensure they file or pay on time by visiting a USPS retail counter and requesting a manual (local) postmark, obtaining a postage validation imprint, certificate n See USPS, page A9

preserve it for generations to come,” said Rosen. “We’ve made tremendous progress mitigating the impacts of pollution and invasive species, but we can, and we must do more. I’m proud to continue this legacy by supporting legislation to ensure our local, state, and Tribal communities have all the necessary resources to help preserve one of Nevada’s most unique natural wonders for generations to come.”

Specifically, the Santini-Burton Modernization Act:

• Maintains the U.S. Forest Service’s existing authority to facilitate land acquisitions in the Tahoe Basin;

• Designates the Washoe Tribe as an eligible entity to receive transfer of acquired land, a designation already a orded to state and local governments;

• Allows existing S-B Act funds to be used for land management needs, prioritizing sustainable recreation and mitigation of environmental degradation;

• Maintains the 1980 federal land sale boundaries in Clark County; and

• Creates no new costs to taxpayers.

“Lake Tahoe is one of our nation’s greatest natural landmarks, and we must work together across state and party lines to protect this environmental marvel from climate change, pollution, and overdevelopment,” said Padilla.”Our bipartisan, bicameral bill would keep Tahoe funds in Tahoe, repurposing existing funding streams to give our federal, state, local, and tribal partners in the Tahoe Basin more

tools to address evolving long-term land management needs, including sustainable recreation and public access improvements.”

The Santini-Burton Modernization Act is endorsed by the Nevada Division of State Lands, the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, Keep Tahoe Blue, the Tahoe Fund, the California Tahoe Conservancy and local elected o cials. Companion legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Kevin Kiley, R-Calif., District 3.

“Protecting Lake Tahoe is a responsibility we all share,” said Kiley. “As a strong supporter of public lands, I believe we must be good stewards

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of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala, who addressed the educators and community partners in the room.

“Today gives us the opportunity to step back and look at the bigger picture, to strengthen our partnerships and sharpen our practice,” said Manansala.

“This work allows us to focus on what we can do — how we can prevent a major crisis before it happens, and how we can stay centered on what matters most: our children,” he continued. “It takes many thoughtful, beautiful minds working together to prevent harm, to care for our students and to protect our schools.”

The program began with expert insights from special guests Efrain Antonio Beliz Jr., Ph.D., and Nicolas Rafael Beliz, Psy.D., who presented on threat assessment, risk assessment and risk management. The father-son duo is recognized for their depth of experience and contributions to the field.

Following their presentation,

Homeless

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participants engaged in a deep exploration of the culture and language shared by many perpetrators of targeted violence, including how past shootings, anniversaries, ideological blending and symbolism can influence individuals preparing for an attack. The training examined K-12 and higher education case studies from Los Angeles County, helping participants better recognize the warning signs, patterns and behaviors that can signal movement toward violence.

One of the most critical themes throughout the day was how to di erentiate between those seeking attention and those determined to cause harm. Understanding that distinction can lead to more e ective interventions and, ultimately, prevention.

The training emphasized practical strategies and real-world application, including:• Interventions and ethical considerations

• Interviewing strategies with individuals of concern

used for the HHSA Behavioral Health Division’s Support, Outreach, Accessibility, and Resilience project — a new El Dorado County Psychiatric Health Facility and HHSA o ces.

Operational costs for the permanent campus planned next to the Placerville jail range from $1.875 million to $2.5 million, with funding coming from Medi-Cal, Behavioral Health Services Act, opioid settlement funds and other sources.

“We were asked to create a ‘sustainable ‘plan, and I put that word in quotes. While these funding sources are way less volatile than our current operation budget, they are subject to changes at the federal and state level,” Byron Cooper said. “We are building as much flexibility into this plan as possible to allow us to bend in whatever way the wind is blowing.”

Construction of the Forni Road facility is budgeted at $5.75 million with $1 million coming

of the places Americans cherish most. Building on our bipartisan success last Congress with the Lake Tahoe Restoration Reauthorization Act, this legislation ensures that funds originally intended to conserve the Tahoe Basin can be used e ectively to manage these lands, reduce wildfire risk and preserve public access for future generations. I’m proud to continue working in a bipartisan way to keep Tahoe healthy and thriving.”

If passed, the forest supervisor of the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit would “develop a spending plan for activities under this paragraph for the next fiscal year consistent with the priorities of the Lake Tahoe Environmental Improvement Program,” by March 15 of each fiscal

• Approaches to engaging families and gaining buy-in for support

• Analyzing written communications and warning behaviors

• Multidisciplinary coordination between education, mental health, law enforcement, and families

Participants also explored one of today’s most complex challenges: di erentiating severe mental illness from extreme overvalued beliefs, which may play a role in lone-actor targeted violence. These distinctions can shape the type of support and responses deployed and influence safety outcomes for school communities.

As technology continues to evolve, so do the tools and platforms that can contribute to risk. The presentation addressed emerging trends across online platforms, developing technologies and gaming spaces, highlighting how some individuals have recently used devices and digital environments for harmful intentions.

At its core, the Jan. 23 event reinforced that violence prevention

from the Chief Administrative O ce, $628,285 from FEMA, $1 million from the Behavioral Health Services Act, $2 million in opioid settlement funds, $371,715 in realignment funds and $750,000 from the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians (subject to state approval).

Anticipated to open in mid-2028, the permanent navigation center would have approximately 30 beds, including areas for homeless families (not available at current site), and treatment participation is required of those housed there.

“There is a direct correlation between engagement and services and success in finding permanent housing,” Byron-Cooper explained. “We feel it is prudent to put our finite resources where there is the greatest chance of success so our focus will be on those willing to engage in services.”

The campus will have “a non-institutional feel” with communal space and separation between the individuals and families. Modular-type structures would be used to allow for scalability and repurposing should the county wish to use them for something di erent in the future.

Byron-Cooper acknowledged the significant service gap between when the temporary facility closes and the permanent one opens — a concern shared by members of the public and the supervisors.

“We are very dedicated in our e ort to work with our community partners to identify soft landings for as many people as we can during the transition,” she said.

year. “The Santini-Burton Modernization Act will help us write the next chapter of Tahoe’s conservation success story. Drafted in true collaboration by and for Tahoe partners, this legislation will unlock essential funding to protect the lake and basin for future generations — without costing taxpayers a dime,” said Keep Tahoe Blue CEO Darcie Goodman Collins, Ph.D. “I look forward to working with the bill’s leads, Sen. Cortez Masto and Congressman Kiley, on turning this proposal into law.”

“On behalf of Team Tahoe, I want to thank our congressional delegation for continuing to advocate for Lake Tahoe,” said Julie Regan, executive director of the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency. “The original Santini-Burton Act and the proposed modernization exemplify the importance of federal investments at Tahoe to protect the lake’s famed clarity and ensure the public can safely enjoy our abundant public lands.”

“The health of the land equals the health of the people. For many years, we have been working to bring Washoe people back onto our homelands and become stewards of the land the way our ancestors have for thousands of years. Updating the Santini-Burton Act will be a huge step for all of us to create the safe and healthy forests we all need,” said Serrell Smokey, chairman of the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California.

is not the responsibility of any single person or agency. It is a shared e ort — one built on communication, expertise, trust, and coordinated action.

The learning objectives for the day reflected this collaborative focus, supporting participants in strengthening their understanding of:• The roles of mental health professionals, school o cials and law enforcement

• How and when to share information on high-risk situations

• Warning behaviors such as coded language, key anniversaries and copycat costuming

• Evidence-based approaches to intervention with individuals and families

EDCOE’s threat assessment process continues to evolve alongside the realities facing schools nationwide. Each training, each partnership, and each conversation builds greater capacity not only to respond to threats but also to recognize them earlier and intervene more e ectively.

“But I do feel that I need to explicitly say that we won’t be able to find housing for everyone exiting the navigation center. We just don’t have the resources currently in the county to do so,” the HHSA director continued. “And this may not be popular to say, but the reality is we can’t find housing for everyone exiting the navigation center now, either. It just isn’t as visible because we’re essentially housing people long-term inside of the navigation center, which isn’t sustainable.”

It’s a problem “staring us in the face” District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin noted. As a member of the committee that drafted the plan outlined in the presentation, she lamented that the county had to give up a model that had successes and that, despite all his promises, Gov Gavin Newsom has thus far failed to address the state’s homeless crisis.

“I think it’s really super frustrating for most of us in government, local government, that we have a governor out there that keeps talking. This is … his No. 1 one issue and, yet, his budget does not reflect that.”

“Nope,” Byron-Cooper agreed.

“Show us the money, because if he were defending what we’re already doing and the success that we have in El Dorado County, we could continue on,” Parlin added. “To me, it’s really frustrating that our good work is not being acknowledged at the state level where the money comes from.”

District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo agreed, noting he and other county sta have heard nothing but “crickets” from the governor and his sta . “It just, it blows my mind that here they’re, putting all this pressure on us, and we can’t even voice our opinions,” Turnboo said, “and when we do voice our opinions, we don’t hear anything from them.”

District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp called the state’s homelessness funding goals “a moving target.” He also served on the committee addressing the navigation center shift and said, “I think the county’s done a very good job, given resources and the constraints that we have.”

All the supervisors thanked the group for putting together a viable plan — gratitude echoed by El Dorado County Sheri Je Leikauf. “We’re not kicking the can down the road, so to speak,” noted the sheri . “This is a testament to everybody involved in this — all the stakeholders, to include our community, to deal with a problem, to make our county better and serve everybody, including

vulnerable population.”

Outside Continued from A6

to get caught in one. The chances of surviving being swept up in an avalanche are minimal.

It’s important to know about avalanche danger before heading out to the backcountry. The best thing to do is take a course in avalanches, or at a minimum understand the conditions that can lead to them. If you can’t or won’t do either, stay home.

Sierra Avalanche Center is the best place to find out what current conditions are. Pay attention to what they say. They are experts at this, and go into places that most of us will never see, to assess the snow, every day, in all conditions.

There are two groups in our area that also go out there to check on conditions. Eldorado Backcountry Ski Patrol and Tahoe Backcountry Ski Patrol. Search and Rescue from El Dorado, Placer, and Douglas County, Nevada, work with the backcountry folks to find and rescue people who get stuck or injured in snow country.

The ski patrols, and most of the search and rescue people, are volunteers. They are highly trained and that never stops. They venture out in all conditions, day or night. They are at risk every time they suit up and head out to find people. Simply put, be prepared.

Cross-country skis and snowshoes do require a bit of getting used to. Experienced downhill skiers know how to turn and stop whenever they want. The transition to XC units

Coupal

Continued from A4

outright recession,” the LAO explained. “This makes solving the budget problem with ongoing solutions all the more important. Continuing to use temporary tools — like budgetary borrowing — would only defer the problem and, ultimately, leave the state ill-equipped to respond to a recession or downturn in the stock market.”

But hopes for rationality were dispelled on Jan. 9 with the release of Newsom’s latest budget proposal. While the LAO is traditionally diplomatic and measured in reporting on the initial plan in January, this year, the criticism was particularly harsh. Here are the problems laid out by the LAO.

First, Newsom is overly optimistic that the stock market will stay strong. The Legislative Analyst warns that several reliable indicators show the market may be overheated and at risk of a downturn. Because the state

USPS Continued from A7

of mailing, using Certified Mail or Registered Mail with documented proof of mailing date.

As a reminder: To avoid penalties, be sure to pay any taxes owed by April 15. Mailers should allow extra time for postmarking and delivery to avoid penalties, interest, or processing issues that could arise if postmarks do not align with statutory deadlines.

File and pay taxes online

For faster service, take advantage of

may not be as strange as it is for beginners, but even they need to learn the freeheel skiing skills, faceplants included.

Renting the gear you need makes a lot more sense than buying when you first begin. If you decide you enjoyed it, and know you’ll be going a few times when the snow falls, buying is an option. Two places to rent, as of now, and get lessons are Kirkwood, which is closest, or Royal Gorge, over in Soda Springs.

After all this, what’s real is the payoff. Getting out into the snowy backcountry on XC units or snowshoes is spectacular. You’ll see things out there that few other people will ever see. You’ll experience the phenomenal quiet of the snow covered forest, and if it snows, the wonderful sound of falling snow. It’s simply amazing beyond belief. You’ll need to stay hydrated, have more than enough food and water, chocolate covered peanut M&Ms, any meds you need and layers that you can stay comfortable with all day and maybe longer. Along with that, sunscreen, matches, some way to stay dry, compass and a map of where you’re going, fully charged phone and portable battery and anything else you think you need.

Let someone know, who isn’t with you, where you’re going and when you think you’ll be back. The whole idea is to go out there, come back and repeat — all winter and into spring. Leave no trace. Get outside!

relies heavily on high earners and capital gains, revenues drop sharply when markets fall rather than decline slowly.

Second, LAO reports that the budget doesn’t begin to address the long-term structural problems: “Even under the administration’s more optimistic revenues, the budget is only roughly balanced in the near term.”

The problem with the now-permanent structural deficit is that it just gets worse every year.

According to the LAO, “After four years of projected deficits and a cumulative total of $125 billion in budget problems solved so far, the state’s negative fiscal situation is now chronic.”

The governor and the California Legislature should heed LAO’s chilling conclusion: “Taken together, these trends raise serious concerns about the state’s fiscal sustainability.”

Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

FTB’s 24/7 online self-service options.

To e-file your California tax return, visit CalFile, which allows most Californians to e-file their state tax return for free.

FTB offers several payment options. You can pay your taxes with your checking or savings account using Web Pay, by credit card (fees apply) or set up a payment plan if you qualify (fees apply). For more information on filing options and tax deadlines visit ftb. ca.gov or consult a tax professional.

COMICS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’ve fantasized about your future, and now that wishful thinking is in the realm of possibility. Go forward. The next steps still take a bit of courage, just because they are new. But they aren’t nearly as risky as you once imagined.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). A relationship may still be undefined, but there’s freedom in the lack of definition, and furthermore, the ambiguity leaves room for imagination. Consider letting this one define itself.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Don’t assume that people think and behave like you do. Lean into differences. Get curious. You’ll be around people with talents different from yours, but you have to ask to know it’s true, and ask more to find a way to work together.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’ve hung your heart on a distant star, and that’s more than OK because you also have the dedication to do what it takes and the resilience to keep coming back to it in a new way until you’ve figured it out.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your eyes are doing a lot of work today, not only taking life in but telegraphing it out, sending signals as they complete your smile or perhaps smile on their own without any help from the rest of you. Your eyes may reveal a little more than intended.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Identity isn’t a single rigid structure; it’s layered. Some layers can shift without the core being disturbed. You can reinvent, make-over or glowup without erasing your former self. You’ll release a role and still remain fully yourself.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You often seem to know just the thing to say to make someone feel better or act better. Today, you can do the same thing without words. Your silent presence has a vibe, and that tells it all. Some moments just require you to hold the space.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You’ve learned to keep things interesting for everyone, especially yourself, because bored people tend to misbehave. It’s

here.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Your life is yours to build, but you are also aware that you’re working inside systems and structures that entrap you. Both things can be true. For now, stick with anything that adds to your fulfillment, and life will get easier.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). The influences you choose will be people who move in the spirit of positivity. There’s someone you know who seems doubly grateful for half the blessings. Though their accounting is unusual,

PROSPECTING

Section B ■ mtdemocrat.com

IN THE KNOW

Stellar Students

Congratulations to Chase Mueller of Shingle Springs, Brianna Hampton-Teiber of Cameron Park and Andrew Soares of El Dorado Hills who recently were named to the Dean’s Honor Roll for the Fall 2025 semester at Abilene Christian University.

Jan. 30

Art on Center: Center for Native, Latino and Indigenous Arts presents an artist’s talk with Corina del Carmel at 6 p.m. discussing her exhibition on view through Jan. 31 at 3184 Center St. in Placerville.

Jan. 31

Join the American River Conservancy for From Trails To Tales: A Park Ranger’s Stories — Author talk from 10 a.m. to noon. Register online at app. dvforms.net/api/dv/dwd528. For more information visit arconservancy.org.

El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum present Stories from the Narrow Gauge Logging Era from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 6139 Pleasant Valley Road, El Dorado. For more information visit edchs.org.

Anthony Arya Band + Purely Medicinal will perform, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera presents Tchaikovsky & Schumann at 7:30 p.m. Cellist Zlatomir Fung joins the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera for Tchaikovsky’s elegant “Variations on a Rococo Theme,” Catan’s “Florencia” and Schumann’s Symphony No. 3. For tickets and more information call (916) 4765975 or visit sacphilopera.org.

Coco Montoya – Master Blues Rocker 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.

Feb. 1

Music on the Divide presents Mamajowali at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit musiconthedivide.org.

Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode will host a Bingo Bene t, 5-7 p.m. at the Shingle Springs Community Center. To register or fro more information visit animaloutreach.net.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents The Sense of Beauty — Six Centuries of Painting from Museo de Arte de Ponce through May 24. For more information visit crockerart. org. Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents The Ten Tenors at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Feb. 3

Powell’s Steamer Company and Pub, 425 Main St., presents Eric Hill and Jonny Mojo for Taco Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. Stop by for some good food and good tunes. For more information call (530) 626-1091.

The Pollock Pines-Camino Community Center will host its See’s Candy Valentine’s Day Fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through

Mamajowali brings the groove

Music on the Divide News release

Music on the Divide will open its 2026 concert season with a cross-cultural blend of Americana and West African music when Mamajowali takes the stage Sunday, Feb. 1, at the IOOF Hall in Georgetown.

The concert, scheduled from 3-5 p.m., will introduce audiences to what the trio calls “Afromericana,” a fusion of West African traditions, old-time American tunes and original compositions shaped by improvisation and rhythmic interplay.

Mamajowali is made up of veteran touring musicians Joe Craven, Mamadou Sidibe and Walter Strauss, whose combined experience spans multiple musical traditions and decades of performance. Organizers said the group’s sound is marked by infectious grooves, intricate musical dialogue and a playful, high-energy approach.

Craven is a multi-instrumentalist known for his work with artists including Jerry Garcia. Sidibe is a master kamale ngoni player from Mali, specializing in the West African hunter’s harp, while Strauss is a fingerstyle guitarist influenced by global instrumental styles, blending West African, American roots and Latin American music. Together, the trio weaves traditional instruments such as the kamale ngoni with guitar, percussion, fiddle and mandolin, performing songs in two languages. Their performances balance deep respect for musical tradition with innovation, organizers said, creating concerts that are both rooted and exploratory.

The Georgetown performance marks the opening concert of Music on the Divide’s 2026 season, which continues the organization’s mission of bringing high-quality, diverse musical experiences to rural communities in El Dorado County.

Tickets are available at tinyurl.com/mw3ezu4n. Music on the Divide is a nonprofit organization dedicated to presenting live, world-class music in rural El Dorado County. The organization curates concerts that celebrate musical diversity, cultural exchange and artistic excellence while fostering community connection through shared live music experiences. Additional information about the concert and the season is available at musiconthedivide.org.

George Wheeldon and geology of El Dorado County celebrated

El Dorado Gold 1848 News

release

The Post Discovery Center at 515 Main St. in Placerville is preparing to debut the completed George Wheeldon Mineralogy Exhibit beginning in February.

The Post is home to El Dorado Gold 1848, a nonprofit that has been restoring and reimagining the historic 1940 WPA Post O ce building as a community space, museum — including exhibits celebrating the geology of the region — and a research library.

Prior to his passing in 2023, George Wheeldon met with representatives of 1848 and was enthusiastic about plans to convert the original walk-in vault into a secure mineral exhibit.

With plans in place, 1848 received a grant from the Latrobe Fund to support the vault project. “We had told George Wheeldon we wanted to name the vault after him. We just wish he could have seen it completed,” said Jill Kearney, the group’s secretary. “I took geology classes from George, like so many others, and learned so much history on so many levels from him. He was excited about sharing that knowledge every day of his life. We hope to be able to rotate collections that he would have found exciting.”

The Post will open its doors for five special days this spring and plans its first mineral display to include presentations from local historians and geologists, mining maps, historical photographs of local mines and activities for children. For the event, the El Dorado County Historical Museum has o ered the loan of the Charles Bishop mineral collection, much of which has not been displayed publicly in more than a decade.

Event dates are Feb. 7 and 21, March 7 and 21, and April 4, from 1 to 4 p.m. One presentation will be held each day at 2 p.m. Presenters include El Dorado County Geologist Brandon Badeker; geologist and anthropologist Rich Dvoracek; historian Jill Kearney; Mark Dayton of Brass Medic and the Gold Country Treasure Seekers club; and historian and archivist Dee Owens.

The Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera News release

SACRAMENTO — The Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera has announced the lead cast for its upcoming production of Giuseppe Verdi’s “La Traviata,” to be presented March 20 at 7:30 p.m. and March 22 at 2 p.m. at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center.

Verdi’s beloved opera of love and sacrifice returns with its sweeping melodies and poignant drama. “La Traviata” tells the tragic story of Violetta Valéry and her doomed romance with Alfredo Germont, brought to life in two emotionally charged performances.

The production stars soprano Cecilia Violetta López in the title role, tenor Edward Graves as Alfredo and baritone Andrew Manea as Germont.

López has received numerous accolades for her signature role of Violetta in “La traviata,” which she has performed in more than a dozen productions throughout North America. Of her interpretation, critic James Jorden declared, “She is a Violetta fully formed and, I think, ready for the great stages of the world.” López has performed the role with Houston Grand Opera, Opera Orlando, Pacific Symphony, Minnesota Opera, Opera Colorado, Opera Tampa, Opera Idaho, Ash Lawn Opera, the Northern Lights Music Festival, Madison Opera, Virginia Opera, Florida Grand Opera and

“The Post is definitely a work in progress,” said President Sue Taylor. “We are very grateful to the Latrobe Fund and the El Dorado Museums Foundation for the grants we have received to make our progress possible and appreciate the support

Opera Las Vegas. She made her European debut as Norina in “Don Pasquale” with Zomeropera in Belgium. Klassiek Centraal wrote, “She turns out to be the revelation of the show and wins over the audience with her funny rendition, irresistible charm and natural command of the varied vocal demands.”

Praised by Opera News as a tenor of “stunningly sweet tone,” Graves is a graduate of the Merola Program and Adler Fellowship at San Francisco Opera. During his tenure, he performed Stone/Eunuch in Bright Sheng’s “Dreams of the Red Chamber,” Gastone in “La

of our community. We are excited to share our milestones as they come around.”

To learn more about El Dorado Gold 1848, the exhibit and Post Discovery Center visit edg1848.org.

traviata,” and Ruiz in “Il trovatore,” and sang Rodolfo in SFO’s “Bohème Out of the Box.” He also covered the roles of Alfredo in “La traviata,” Lensky in “Eugene Onegin” and the title role in “Omar.” Graves made his Metropolitan Opera debut as First Armored Man in “The Magic Flute” and returned in 2025 to cover First Armored Man and Second Priest in “Die Zauberflöte.” Additional 2025 engagements include Lt. B.F. Pinkerton in “Madama Butterfly” with Anchorage Opera and Robbins in Houston Grand Opera’s 50th anniversary production of “Porgy and Bess.”

Worship D irectory

Lauded for his “charming … robust baritone,” Romanian American baritone Manea recently made his role debut as the Duke of Nottingham in “Roberto Devereux” with San Francisco Opera. Opera Wire wrote that the performances “thrust him into the spotlight, solidifying his status as the next leading baritone of his generation.” This season, Manea makes his house and role debut with English National Opera as George Benton in Jake Heggie’s “Dead Man Walking,” his house debut with Opéra Orchestre National Montpellier Occitanie as Ford in “Falsta ,” and his house

debut with the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera as Germont in “La traviata.” He also returns to North Carolina Opera as Conte di Luna in “Il trovatore.” Last season included returns to Lyric Opera of Chicago as Monterone and cover of the title role in “Rigoletto,” and to North Carolina Opera as Don Carlo in “Ernani.” He joins the Metropolitan Opera roster in productions of “Moby-Dick” as Gardiner (cover) and “Il barbiere di Siviglia” as Figaro (cover). For tickets and more information, visit sacphilopera.org.

Information Call Elizabeth Hansen at 530-344-5028

Feb. 14 at 2675 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines. For more information visit pollockpinesca.org.

Feb. 5

Late Nite Productions presents Mickey Avalon and Blake Banks’ Postcards from Hell Tour at the Auburn Oddfellows Hall at 8 p.m. For more information visit LateNiteProductions.com.

Feb. 6

The Folsom Quilt and Fiber Guild will host its Ruby Celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Folsom Community Center.

Feb. 7

The Rescue Community Center will host its Crab feed Fundraiser, 5-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter. com.

The Cameron Park Community Services District will host Ties and Tiaras from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Cameron Park CSD Assembly Hall. For more information visit cameronpark.org.

Feb. 10

Join the Placerville Family Search Center for Starting a Family Tree Workshop at 1 p.m. at 3275 Cedar Ravine Road.

Feb. 13

Imagination Theatre at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents “The Quest for Don Quixote” through March 8. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.

Now

El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents “Snowbound, Historical Vignettes of Winter Sports and Leisure in El Dorado County” on view through Feb. 16. For more information visit edchs.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.

Mira ores 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. Call (530) 647-8505 or email info@mira oreswinery.com for more information.

Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host Grilled Cheese Sundays every Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. through winter. For more information visit shadowranch.com.

Artist open call. Gallery 10 in Sutter Creek is accepting submissions for its Annual National Exhibition, Golden State, an “in-gallery, juried” exhibition. The juror is Cheryl Gleason, an award-winning artist and artistic director/curator at Mills Station Art and Culture Center in Rancho Cordova. Artists from across the United States should submit works that engage California’s golden landscapes, its ora and fauna and its storied gold rush. The submission deadline is March 15. Visit the prospectus at gallery10.org/call-for-artists.

El Dorado Musical Theatre presents “Bye Bye Birdie” through Jan. 31 at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Folsom History presents Metal as Medium through Feb. 28. An art exhibition showcasing works from the California Blacksmith Association. Learn more at folsomhistory.org.

The Sacramento History Museum presents RCAF in Mictlán: 50th Anniversary of Dia de los Muertos on display through April 5, 2026. For more information visit sachistorymuseum.org.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Making Moves: A Collection of Feminisms through May 3; and Pueblo Pottery –Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030; For more information visit crockerart.org.

California Railroad Museum presents the Restored No. 9 Steam Locomotive and companion Exhibit are on display inside the historic roundhouse through January. For tickets and more information visit californiarailroad.museum.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento hosts Art Rx, Docent led discussions for those with chronic pain and their friends, family and caregivers, second and fourth Saturdays at 11 a.m.; Meet Me at the Museum: tours designed for visitors with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, using art observation and conversation to foster engagement and social interaction, second Fridays at 11 a.m.; and Highly Descriptive Tours, 50-minute tours with detailed verbal descriptions and guided discussion for blind or low-vision individuals and their guests, fourth Fridays at 1 p.m. For more information visit crockerart.org.

California Railroad Museum will present All Aboard for Story Time every Monday at 11 a.m. This program is included with Museum admission. For more information visit californiarailroad.museum.

The Mills Station Arts and Culture Center in Rancho Cordova hosts Live Model Drawing classes every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. For more information visit rcmacc.org.

The Master Gardener public o ce is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon at 311 Fair Lane, Placerville. Have a gardening question or problem? Come in and chat, bring a cutting or insect in a baggie or a picture. Can’t come in person? Call (530) 621-5512 and leave a voicemail or email mgeldorado@ucanr. edu.

The Mom Walk, Sip and Stroll meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the El Dorado Hills Town Center amphitheater. It’s a great way to get active with other local moms.

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 rst 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. Check out Placerville Cars and Co ee every Saturday, 7-9 a.m. at Lions Park. Hang out with other car enthusiasts. EDH Cars and Co ee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of

the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. The motto is “If it rolls, it goes.”

Marshal Gold Discovery Park will host Living History Days every second Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit marshallgold.com.

The Pollock Pines Community Center will host a Yoga Class every Monday at 10:30 a.m, Bingo Night every Tuesday at 5 p.m. and a Beginners Line Dancing Throwdown from 6:30-9 p.m. For more information visit pollockpinesca.org.

Smith Flat House will host Line Dance Lessons every Friday at 6:30 p.m., Live music every Sunday with Back Porch Swing at 5 p.m. and Bingo Night every third Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit smith athouse.com.

The Georgetown Library will host the Thursdays at Two Poetry Group every rst and third Thursday of the month.

Gold Bug Park & Mine in Placerville is open Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit goldbugpark.org.

Poem of the Month

There’s

There’s

IDLE AIR

Terry R. Webster was born in Sacramento and raised in El Dorado County. Webster recalls the period when Mother Lode School was renamed Herbert Green. On the maternal side, Webster is a fthgeneration Portuguese Californian, with family roots in the Freeport area.

Webster has kept journals since 1972 and wrote a rst poem in 1983. Her poetry is largely autobiographical and confessional, often addressing trauma, along with political and pastoral themes, both bucolic and otherwise.

Webster writes in both rhymed and free verse, with some poems described as having been channeled from an unknown source.

As with a wide range of past jobs, Webster’s writing spans multiple styles and subjects. An avid reader, Webster has become increasingly selective over time about the writing deemed worth engaging.

Video contest brings scholarship opportunity to high schools

News release

The National Special Districts Association is promoting its sixth annual scholarship contest for high school students, encouraging young people to engage with local government and strengthen their civics education. The scholarships are awarded through a student video contest operated as part of the association’s public awareness campaign,

“Districts Make the Di erence.”

High school students in grades 9–12 are invited to submit a short video, 60 seconds or less, highlighting the essential services provided by special districts across the United States. There are more than 30,000 special districts nationwide, delivering services tailored to local community needs. These include fire districts, water districts, mosquito abatement districts, recreation and park

FULL-TIME ACCOUNTANT

districts, cemetery districts and others.

At the end of May, Districts Make the Di erence will award $2,000 to the first-place winner, $1,000 to the second-place winner and $500 to the thirdplace winner. An additional $500 will be awarded to the student’s chosen teacher for each winning video.

“This scholarship fosters an awareness of local government at a young age and encourages students to gain an understanding of the essential services special districts provide in their communities,” said NSDA Vice President Frank Stratton.

Georgetown Divide Public Utility District P.O. Box 4240, Georgetown, CA. 95634 For further information call (530) 333-4356 or visit our website at www.gd-pud.org

The City of Placerville is currently accepting applications for the position of full-time Accountant. Annual salary range: $78,684. - $95,640 plus excellent benefits. A City application is required. A cover letter and resume are highly desired. To view the full job description and submit your application online, visit the City’s website at: www.cityofplacerville.org. This recruitment will remain open until February 13, 2026.

NSDA President Ann Terry said the program continues to grow each year, attracting increased participation. “Special districts play a vital role in delivering essential local services to communities nationwide,” she said. “As high school students enter adulthood, we are honored to o er this scholarship that encourages a greater understanding of the structure of local government.”

Students can visit the Districts Make the Di erence website to view past video submissions and learn more about contest guidelines. The video submission period runs from Jan. 1 through March 31, 2026.

More information is available at districtsmakethedi erence.org/video-contest.

Are you looking for some ways to earn some extra money? Here are some kid-tested jobs that have worked! Be sure you discuss your ideas and get approval from your parents before getting started.

Service:

Suggested age:

Suggested pricing:

Tips on getting started:

Tips for success:

Draw a line from each word to the dog picture that best matches that emotion.

Walk dogs

Kids 8 years and older

$2.00 for a 30 minute walk

Start with small dogs for a short amount of time.

Make and hand out business cards or put up flyers.

Treat the dogs with kindness and respect.

Ask the owner for some of the dog’s favorite treats.

Hold this page up to a mirror to read this helpful quote about money.

Discuss the quote above with your parents. Explain what you think it means.

Service:

Suggested age:

Suggested pricing: Tips on getting started: Tips for success:

Wrap gifts

Kids 10 years and older

$1.00 per package

Make a flier to pass out to your neighbors and friends. Ask your parents to share it with their friends and co-workers, too.

Return the wrapped packages on time.

Obey all pedestrian laws on using

rian laws on all pedest sidewalks. ria

Service:

Suggested age:

Suggested pricing:

Tips on getting started:

Tips for success:

Rake leaves

Wrap each package very neatly. Add a gift tag and a nice bow or decoration to each package.

Josh

Maria

Kids 8 years and older

$4.00 for 30 minutes

Make leaf-shaped flyers to give to neighbors.

Wear gloves and make sure you put all leaves where instructed.

Be careful not to damage plants.

All but one of these leaves has a duplicate shaped twin. Can you circle the unique leaf?

Make a list of 10 businesses that advertise in the newspaper. Using graph paper, make a word search puzzle using the names of these 10 businesses. Then mail your word search puzzle to the newspaper’s publisher.

Try to use the word emotion in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members. Riley tried to keep her emotions under control at her new school.

Saturday Feb 7th

Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco

Audio1 @ 9:30pm Rick & Roxy's, 2131 Lombard St, San Francisco

Oliver Smith @ 10pm Halcyon SF, 314 11th St, San Fran‐cisco

Winter Community Creek Clean-up @ 10am Join us on Saturday, January 31st

10AM-12PM at Putah Creek Na‐ture Park in Winters! 201 E Main St, 201 East Main Street, Winters

Artist Talk with Charlene Will @ 2pm / $10 Come enjoy an artist talk by Char‐lene Will, recipient of the 2025 Pence Gallery Emerging Artist Award! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370

Can't Look Away Documentary Film Hosted by the Michael Leonardi Foundation @ 4pm / Free Join us for a special screening of CAN’T LOOK AWAY: The Case Against Social Media — a gripping and urgent documentary exposing the dark side of social media and its devastating impact on young users. Jarvis Conservatory, 1711 Main Street, Napa. info@ michaelleonardifoundation.org

Shea Welsh Performs with Earl Thomas @ 5pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco

Marina V in San Francisco @ 6pm Sutter Street Historic Center, 2460 Sutter St, San Francisco

Serrano Country ClubStories and Songs from Nashville (Mark Taylor & Mark Irwin) @ 6:30pm Serrano Country Club, 5005 Ser‐rano Pkwy, El Dorado Hills

Anthony Arya: The Green Room Social Club @ 7pm The Green Room Social Club, 251 Main St, Placerville

SF Sketchfest: Alex Bennett & Friends: An SF Sketchfest Salute @ 7pm Cobb's Comedy Club, San Fran‐cisco

Adrian West Band at The Melon Ball in Davis

@ 7:30pm / $20

Adrian West Band per‐forms at The Melon Ball listening room in Davis. Six-piece band with Michael Echaniz on the Steinway Grand Piano. A mix of original acoustic rock & covers & jazz. BYOB! Watermelon Mu‐sic, 1970 Lake Boulevard, Davis. adrian@adrian west.com, 510-428-1035 Return of the Emcee XIV @ 9pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco

The Embodied Brain: Movement, Neuroplasticity, and Human Adaptability with Dr. Yana Nakhimova @ 11:15am / Free How does movement shape the brain? ODC Dance Commons, 351 Shotwell Street, San Francisco. boxof�ce@odc.dance, 415-5498534

Makeup & Mimosas: Drag Brunch with a Punch - 13+ with Parent/Guardian @ 12pm Punch Line Comedy Club - Sacra‐mento, Sacramento

Joey Dardano: Another Direction @ SF Sketchfest @ 2pm The Lost Church San Francisco, 988 Columbus Ave, San Francisco

The Telephone Numbers @ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

KILLINGTIME @ 7pm Punch Line Comedy Club, 2100 Arden Way, Sacramento

Lines Broken: The Story of Marion MotleyFree Screening @ 2pm / Free Join us for a free screen‐ing of the award winning PBS documentary Lines Broken, the inspiring story of football legend Marion Motley! Kroc Center, 586 East Wigeon Way, Suisun City. show@eddrick.com

Killing Time w/ Holly James & Johnny Taylor, Jr. - in the Callback Bar @ 7pm Punch Line Sacramento Callback Bar, Sacramento

Yesh Malik @ 7pm Fort Mason Center for Arts & Cul‐ture, 2 Marina Blvd Building C, San Francisco

Hashtronaut @ 7pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento

Aleman & Gera MX - Rich Ma�a Tour US 2026 @ 7pm Ace of Spades, Sacramento

Sace6 @ 8pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco

Lakeside Laughs Comedy Club @ 8pm The Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe

Tai Chi Classes for Beginners @ 8:50am Beginning tai chi classes offered at eh Woodland Community & Senior Center Woodland Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�tness68@ gmail.com

Rotary Club of Davis Weekly Lunch & Program

@ 12pm See website for details. ro‐taryclubofdavis.com Davis Com‐munity Church, 421 D Street, Davis. spshoe@mac.com

Strength & Balance Class

@ 1:15pm Strength & Balance class at the Davis Lutheran Church Davis Lutheran Church ELCA, 317 East 8th Street, Davis. tina�tness68@ gmail.com

Fire�y Art: Theodore Judah Elementary (Folsom), Session C

@ 2:55pm / $126 Feb 2nd - Mar 23rd

Theodore Judah Elementary (Fol‐som), 101 Dean Way, Folsom. 916419-7644

Children's Dance Classes After School at the Davis Arts Center

@ 4:15pm Tina Fitness offers children's Dance classes after school at the Davis Arts Center. Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�t ness68@gmail.com

Ruston Kelly @ 7pm The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco

verygently @ 7pm The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco

Ruston Kelly @ 8pm The Independent SF, 628 Di‐visadero Street, San Francisco

Tue 2/03

Beginning Tai Chi @ 10:15am Tai chi classes suitable for begin‐ning practitioners Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�t ness68@gmail.com

Product Launch: United DSPM & DLP to Secure Data in the AI Era @ 11am Live on Feb 3, Cyberhaven unveils a uni�ed, AI native DSPM + DLP platform that traces how sensitive data moves across SaaS, cloud, and AI tools so security leaders can see and control real risk. San Fran‐cisco. marketing@cyber haven.com

Sarper Güven @ 7:30pm Punch Line

Sacramento

Jack Wright's Neil Diamond Superstar @ 7:30pm / $35-$45 Winters Opera House, 13 Main Street, Winters. winterslive9@gmail.com, 925-785-4300

of

and Israel

Nebeker @ 8pm Cafe Du Nord, San Francisco

Sips & Bites: The Chemistry of Distinc‐tive Wines @ 6pm / $20-$30

Wine tasting focusing on the chemistry of �avors. Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Sci‐ence, 392 Old Davis Road, Davis. rmievents@uc davis.edu, 530-754-6349

The Hajj

@ 6:30pm Hotel Utah Saloon, 500 4th St, San Francisco

Trestles @ 7pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento Temptress/ Cattlemass/ Barren Altar/ Disastroid @ 8pm Neck of the Woods, San Francisco Barren Altar @ 8pm

sic Hall, San Fran‐cisco

Emo vs Pop-Punk @ 9pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco

Lance Woods & Friends @ 9:45pm Cobb's Comedy Club, San Fran‐cisco

Kehlani @ 10pm 1015 Folsom, 1015 Folsom St, San Francisco

Intermediate Tai Chi @ 10:15am Tai chi classes for intermediate practitioners Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�tness68 @gmail.com

Downtown First Thursdays | Feb. 5, 2026 @ 5pm Downtown SF's FREE massive monthly street party! DJs, dancing, drag, and all ages fun every �rst Thursday of the month. DOWN‐TOWN FIRST THURSDAYS 2nd Street, San Francisco. maro@in tothestreetssf.com, 415-226-9289

The Dozen Trivia: Big Game Classic V - San Francisco @ 6pm

Davis Senior HS Symphony Orchestra presents: Amer‐ica, Happy 250th Birthday! @ 11am / $10-$15 Davis Senior High School Sym‐phony Orchestra Presents the story of “An American Dream, Commemorating 250 Years of In‐dependence,” Kids Family Con‐cert. Richard Brunelle Performance Hall, 315 West 14th Street, Davis. amoreno@djusd.net, 530-4007614

Manuel Fernando Rios: When They Reminisce Over You @ 11:30am Feb 7th - Mar 29th View a new exhibit at the Pence featuring art by Manuel Fernando Rios! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370

Moving Through Menopause: Strength, Elasticity, and Ease with Dr. Karah Charette, DPT @ 12:15pm / Free As we move through the menopause transition, our bodies ask for new ways of listening and tending. Hormonal shifts can affect the elasticity of our tissues - from the pelvic �oor to the tendons ODC Dance Commons, 351 Shotwell Street, San Francisco. boxof�ce@ odc.dance, 415-549-8534 Valentine's Tantra Speed Date® - Reno! (Meet Singles Speed Dating) @ 6pm / $45-$140 Join the speed dating revolution with a 94% connection rate! Meet singles