Mountain Democrat, Friday, May 15, 2026

Still Entries S ll E ries

Teachers and board reach a compromise

The El Dorado Union High School District Board of Trustees approved California Public Employment Relations Board mediator Jun Payoyo’s compromise proposal on May 12. The mediator’s proposal originally was presented to the faculty on April 21 after both sides failed earlier to reach an agreement.

The EDUHSD Faculty Association asked for a salary increase of 6% and for an increase in the

Lighthall hearing delayed a month

Shelly Thorene

Joshua Joseph Lighthall, the man accused in the killing of El Dorado County resident Tyson Fiddler, has a new court date. The suspect appeared in court Monday for a bail and pre preliminary hearing but the case was continued to June 15.

Lighthall, 47, of Sacramento was arrested in April and is being held on a no-bail murder warrant in the El Dorado County Jail more than a year and a half after Fiddler’s body was found. An accomplice, Michael Alexander Cooney, faces a charge of being an accessory after the fact and is not listed in custody.

Lighthall’s attorney requested a continuance in

Noel Stack Editor

Hoping to help local businesses and attract more visitors ready to spend some money, the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors on May 12 conceptually approved the establishment of Entertainment Zones in unincorporated areas of the county.

The discussion was prompted by a request from El Dorado Hills Town Center representatives based on Senate Bill 969. E ective Jan. 1, 2025, the law authorizes California cities and counties to create designated Entertainment Zones where individuals, 21 and older, may legally possess and consume

Shelly

Sta writer

AThorene

t a May 9 dedication ceremony for a new historical plaque, descendants honored the three pioneer families who purchased the Frenchtown Cemetery land for $10 in gold.

The Gregory, Watkins and Turnboo families purchased the oneacre lot just west of the old Frenchtown area in Shingle Springs around 1850 and L.T. Waters was the first person to be buried in the cemetery. The plaque placed near the entrance to the cemetery was donated by the Sutter’s Mill Parlor No. 336 – Native Daughters of the Golden West. The cemetery is

Buried history

Cemetery plaque gives nod to pioneer families

the Frenchtown Cemetery Association, made up of local residents.

County getting into the Entertainment (Zone) business

open containers of alcoholic beverages within a specific geographic boundary and purchased from licensed participating businesses.

“At its core, this is about economic development and community vitality,” said Nina Watkins, vice president of Marketing Operations for Town Center.

“From our research and conversations with other cities and municipalities, such as San Francisco, Sacramento, Auburn and Redding, we’ve seen consistent outcomes.

These zones increase foot

c and local

ESSENTIALS

Louie Warren Bacigalup Sep. 16, 1926 – Feb. 14, 2026

Louie Warren Bacigalup, 99, of Placerville, California passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026.

Lou was born on September 16, 1926 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Mary and Hector Bacigalup. He moved to Los Angeles, California as a child and attended Marshall High School, graduating in 1944. He founded an electronics company, Tekmatic, in the 1960s and ran it successfully for 20 years. He was married to Walda Ware from 1956 until her passing in 1999. He met Lorraine Sellers in Muluge, Baja Mexico in 2000 and they married in Placerville at their home on Log Cabin Lane in 2003.

Lou served with distinction in the 441st Engineer Depot Company, 43rd Infantry Division in the US Army during WW II. He saw combat in the Philippines in 1945 and was part of the Tokyo occupying force.

Accompanied by his late wife, Lorraine, he enjoyed traveling, caring for vulnerable animals, and was a member of numerous El Dorado wine clubs. Lou was an excellent builder, did a number of construction projects on the Placerville property, and enjoyed building furniture and small boats. He was an avid sailor for much of his life.

Lou is survived by his daughter, Michelle Blades, and his sons Erik Bacigalup and Glenn Roberts. A Celebration of Life for Lou and Lorraine will be held May 23, 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Ponte Palmero Activity Room in the Clubhouse, 3081 Ponte Morino Dr. Cameron Park, CA 95682. Donations can be made to the PAW Animal Clinic (https://pawclinic.wordpress.com/).

John Cottier

Oct. 23, 1942 – Apr. 14, 2026

Known for his charisma, quick wit, and towering presence, John Michael Cottier was born October 23, 1942 in Vallejo, California to parents John Eugene Cottier and Elvera Gail (who preferred Gaile) Cottier nee Elliott (later Penry). After a brief illness, John passed away on April 14, 2026, at his home in Fair Oaks, California surrounded by loved ones.

John was a lifelong Californian who made his home in the Sacramento metro area for the last 30-plus years. He spent his formative years in Sonoma County as well as many years as a El Dorado County resident. His career took him to many assignments across California.

John joined the Department of Transportation (Caltrans) in 1968 and rose through the ranks of the Caltrans Division of Maintenance to the highest management level and led a statewide o ce. At Caltrans, he met his future wife, Lisa Kunzman and they were married on April 13, 2001. Together they enjoyed traveling and cruising, being dog parents, hosting holiday gatherings, and researching genealogy.

John was outgoing and led a life of love, laughter, and adventure. A voracious reader, athlete, history enthusiast (especially Civil War history), and Blues fan, he enjoyed all of the passions that make life worth living. He loved being a father to his two children, Shannon and Todd, by his former wife. He always liked staying busy and was never known for sitting around.

John is survived by his wife, Lisa, of Fair Oaks, California, daughter Shannon (partner David Belitz) of Placerville, California, son Todd (partner Dena Carr) of Orangevale, California, and grandchildren Derek Albright of Carlton, Oregon; Ashtyn Cottier of Hillsboro, Oregon, and Hayden Cottier of Beaverton, Oregon. John is also survived by his brother Cyrenus Penry (wife Laura) of Sea Ranch, California and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Cyrenus Eugene (known as Gene) Cottier, Charles Cottier, David Penry, and sister Gaile Lewis nee Cottier.

John’s family would be honored if you would join us for his memorial service on Saturday, May 30 at 10:00 AM at Old Saint Mary’s Chapel (5251 Front Street, Rocklin, California). All are welcome to join us. Please email inmemoryo ohncottier@gmail.com for details regarding the virtual rosary or if you are interested in attending the memorial service via remote access.

Following the service, you’re invited to John’s home for luncheon, libations, and laughter as we continue to celebrate John’s life. Please let us know by May 22 if you are joining us for this by emailing inmemoryo ohncottier@gmail.com. Flowers are welcomed and may be delivered to John’s home (please email inmemoryo ohncottier@ gmail.com if you need the address) or delivered between 9:00 AM and 9:30 AM to Old Saint Mary’s Chapel on May 30. However, if you choose to honor John with a charitable donation, please consider giving to Canine Companions for Independence (canine.org), Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue and Sanctuary (homewardboundgoldens. org), or the Mercy Hospital Guardian Angel program (supportmercyfoundation.org/ways-togive/guardian-angel) to honor an amazing nurse named Carol Dowsen who cared for John.

David Clark “Davey Doc” Wiser

Nov. 11, 1941 – Mar. 16, 2026

When asked his date of birth, David Clark Wiser would always answer: 11-11-1941, 2:15 PM, Tuesday afternoon, Coleman Hospital, Alhambra, California. He grew up in Eagle Rock, California, with his parents David and Evelyn and brother Harry Wiser. He was a pole vaulter in high school and a surfer.

He loved going to the racetrack at Santa Anita with dreams of being a jockey, but at age 18 he went to work for the Southern Pacific, now Union Pacific Railroad, like his father and grandfather before him, retiring after 50 years (and 17 days).

When Placerville became his home in 1975, he joined the wagon train and gave rides to kids around town with his doctors buggy: when he got a loan from Wells Fargo to buy a stagecoach, the rest was history.

He was a man who loved life and lived it to the fullest. He was just as comfortable all dressed up in a front row seat at the opera as he was riding a fast horse named “Jet” down the main street of Lake Tahoe carrying the mochila for the Pony Express or running the wheelbarrow race with his personal wheelbarrow. Whether a DJ for the local radio station or volunteer for the El Dorado Western RR, his life was full. He said he was a participant not a spectator.

He leaves his wife Sherry, son John (Natalie), grandchildren Tyler and Kaylene and ten bonus grandchildren and five greats. He was a child of God and on 3:16 at 11:11 PM, he went home to Heaven. Placerville will miss the charming cowboy, but he won’t be forgotten.

A memorial service will be held for Davey on Saturday, June 6th, the day the wagon train arrives on Main Street during Golden History Days. Davey will arrive in a custom handmade pine box riding inside his horse drawn hearse, Teamster Je Shinn will have the reins followed by his infamous horse drawn Wiser Overland stagecoach. Teamster and Davey’s close friend, Josh Bulhert will have the reigns. “Doc” Wiser will be the Wagon Train’s Grand Marshall posthumously, and follow the wagon train into town, as Davey always liked to be in the back.

The service will commence at the Bell Tower on Main Street at approximately 3:30pm or whenever the Wagon Train pulls out after a brief stop there. Bring your lawn chairs and prepare to spend about an hour or so as we give Davey “Doc” Wiser a special sendo commemorating his final ride down Main Street. There will be a guest book for you to sign, and please write down your favorite special memory with Davey, as well as a limited quantity of commemorative keepsake Davey “Doc” Wiser wooden nickels. Hope to see y’all there!

Larren Wayne Calderwood

Jun. 17, 1938 – May 3, 2026

Larren Wayne Calderwood was born on June 17, 1938 in Bakersfield California and passed away peacefully on May 3, 2026 in Fresno, California.

After his career with Prudential Insurance in Detroit, he retired to Placerville, honoring his wife’s childhood connection with the Gold Rush Country. Another asset that drew Larry to Placerville was Cold Springs Golf and Country Club, where he was able to continue to pursue his lifelong passion for golf, capable of shooting his age into his 80’s.

In his retirement, Larry brought his exceptional management skills to organizations in Placerville, California. He sat on several boards, including Placerville Public Library Friends of the Library, Cold Springs Country Club, Community Concerts and Placerville Taxpayers Association. Larry and Anna Marie enjoyed their retirement in Placerville from 1998 to 2015, when they moved to Fresno to be closer to family.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Anna Marie. They each brought children to their marriage resulting in a beautifully combined family: Linda Perry Kingston (Keith), Dian Calderwood Schneider, Kaaren Perry Ramsey (Scott), Julie Calderwood Grossi (Mark), Valerie Calderwood Luna (Nico), James Perry (Cheri), and Jon Calderwood (Heather), who together produced 17 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Honoring Larry’s wishes, no formal services are planned. Please consider donating in his memory to one of the causes close to Larry’s heart: St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or any local Friends of the Library group.

Beverly Blaske

Oct. 9, 1926 – Apr. 23, 2026

Beverly Virgina (May) Blaske, 99, of Placerville, California passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026.

Bev was born on October 9, 1926 in San Francisco, California to Harold and Rita (Hancock) May. She moved to Placerville, California as a child, later moved to Sacramento where she spent most of her life, and moved back to Placerville in 2008 where she resided until her passing.

Bev graduated from El Dorado High School in Placerville in 1944 and was a lifetime member of the El Dorado High School Alumni Association. She studied nursing at Sacramento Jr. College, was employed by the State of California for five years, and concluded her working career after 25 years as food service worker for the Sacramento City School District.

Accompanied by her late husband, Edward, she had a passion for golfing, social events, jeeping, and world travel. She and Ed were members of the Cold Springs Country Club in Placerville for many years. They volunteered for the American Legion Post 119 Cook Crew for the Jeepers Jamboree on the Rubicon Trail for over 20 years. She visited countless countries around the world and delighted in observing unique cultures. Bev’s fun, energetic, disciplined, and determined nature was evident to all who knew her.

Bev is survived by her daughter, Sandra Linnenbrink; grandchildren, Chad Linnenbrink (Melanie) and Alicia Brenner; great grandchildren, Jackson, Rebekah, Maycee, and Joshua; her sister, Barbara Luther; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward; and her son, Daniel.

A celebration of life was held on May 11, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Diamond Springs Mobile Home Park Clubhouse, 3550 China Garden Road, Placerville, CA 95667. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the El Dorado County Animal Shelter.

LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES

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.

/ nstack@mtdemocrat.net

/ mescabar@mtdemocrat.net Andrew Vonderschmitt Features Editor 530-344-5058 / andrewv@mtdemocrat.net

Frances Marian Brown

Jun. 30, 1930 – Mar. 26, 2026

Frances Marian Brown (née Davis), a beloved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and dedicated nurse, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026, in Redding, California. She was 95 years old.

Born on June 30, 1930, in Red Bluff, California, Frances grew up with a deep sense of compassion and curiosity that would shape her life’s journey. Frances graduated in 1951 from the St. Mary’s School of Nursing in San Francisco in 1951 and began her career shortly thereafter at the former Placerville Hospital on Spring Street. She met her husband, L.A. “Brownie” Brown, Jr., in Placerville. They married in 1952 and began their life together in Honolulu, where Brownie was stationed with the U.S. Navy. Upon returning stateside, they lived in San Luis Obispo before settling back in the Placerville area to start their family.

Frances devoted herself to supporting her husband’s career with Aerojet and raising her children. Frances returned to nursing in 1970, working first with Dr. Shortes, then Dr. Riley, and later Dr. Klass, until her retirement in 1992. Those who knew Frances remember her as the consummate nurse–kind-hearted, skilled yet humble, and always putting others before herself.

A woman of many interests, Frances was an amateur genealogist who meticulously traced her family lineage back 10 generations. Her love of American history inspired her children to develop a curiosity about the world and its past. An

Phyllis Nicholson Bigelow

Oct. 11, 1930 – Apr. 4, 2026

Phyllis Nicholson Bigelow was born on October 11, 1930, and passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, at the age of 95.

Phyllis was born in Seminole, Oklahoma, to Othel and Glee Means. During World War II, the family relocated to Long Beach, California, in the summer of 1942 when her father joined the Navy and her brother Richard enlisted in the Navy Air Cadets. Phyllis attended Long Beach Polytechnic High School, graduating with honors in 1948. A gifted athlete, she earned the distinction of being the school’s #1 tennis player in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. She continued her education at the University of California, Berkeley, graduating in 1952 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree and receiving her General Secondary Credential in 1953. While at Berkeley, she once again achieved the honor of being the #1 Women’s Tennis Player, competing with her beloved Jack Kramer wooden racket, cat-gut strings, and a can of wellworn Wilson tennis balls. Her years at Berkeley were among the happiest of her life, filled with lifelong friendships, involvement in Phi Mu Fraternity and other organizations, and most importantly, meeting her future husband, Jim Nicholson, Class of 1953.

avid reader, Frances absorbed history and almost always had a book on her chairside table. Frances also had a passion for sewing and created countless dresses for her daughters as well as clothing for her grandchildren. After she retired, she took up quilting and crafted numerous cherished heirlooms. After her retirement, she traveled extensively around the United States, as well as overseas with her son, Darryl.

Frances is survived by her daughters Katharine (Dennis) Garrison and Mary (Marc) Bourriague, grandchildren Casey (Meghan), Russell, and Melissa Garrison, great grandchildren Harper and Oaken Garrison and step-grandson Alex (Jessica) Bourriague. She was predeceased by her husband L.A. Brown, Jr., her daughter Eileen L. Brown and her son Darryl L. Brown.

May Frances’s memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love and care will live on through the lives she touched.

A memorial will be held for Frances on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 12:30 pm at the Red Bluff Community Center located on 1500 S. Jackson Street in Red Bluff. If you wish to honor Frances’s life with a donation, you may donate to the charity of your choice, or the El Dorado County library (eldoradolibraryfriends.org), or the El Dorado County Historical Society (edchs.org), or the Shasta Historical Society (shastahistorical.org/ donations/donation-form/)

Phyllis became deeply involved with the Gold Niners at Cameron Park Country Club, serving for many years as both Captain and Treasurer — roles she found especially rewarding and enjoyable. Tennis remained one of her lifelong passions, leading to the formation of numerous teams, years of spirited competition, and many cherished friendships.

In the 1980s, she and a dear friend formed a competitive women’s tennis team at Cameron Park Country Club, becoming the first team from El Dorado County accepted into the Sacramento Area Tennis Association (SATA), despite the long travel distances between clubs.

Above all else, Phyllis was a devoted and loving mother whose family always came first. She was a Cub Scout leader, Girl Scout leader, and always provided a wonderful home where all the neighborhood children came to play. Her love, dedication, and guidance shaped generations, and the memories she created with her children and grandchildren will be treasured forever.

In 1955, following Jim’s service in the Army, the couple settled in Placerville, California, where Phyllis devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family and community. She became active in the American Association of University Women and Beta Sigma Phi while raising four children and substitute teaching at El Dorado High School. After Ponderosa High School opened in the 1960s, she joined the faculty as a physical education and history teacher, inspiring students until her retirement in 1992. For 12 years, she also served as the boys’ and girls’ tennis coach, proudly leading teams that each earned CIF Championships. After moving to Cameron Park,

Phyllis found joy in life’s simple pleasures and in the people and animals she loved so dearly. She enjoyed sports, camping, sewing, cooking, coin and stamp collecting, gardening, and spending time in nature. She was deeply devoted to animals, especially her beloved kitty cat, Toodletoo, who brought her endless companionship and happiness in her later years.

Phyllis is survived by her loving children: Karen Schiro (Tim), Edwin Nicholson (Cindy), Michael Nicholson (Danai), along with many cherished grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. A private family celebration will be held at the family home in Placerville.

Phyllis was a generous annual supporter of Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to this organization in her memory.

OPINION

California Commentary

Why California ranks so low in taxpayer return on investment

That California produces the worst “return on investment” for its citizens is demonstrably true.

As measured by WalletHub, California ranks 49th out of 50 states in taxpayer return on investment and the Tax Foundation rates the state 48th in tax competitiveness. It would be one thing if we were receiving value for our tax dollars but, put bluntly, we are not. The Golden State has the highest income tax rate in America as well as the highest state sales tax rate and gas tax. Even per capita property tax collections are much higher than the national average, Proposition 13 notwithstanding.

JON COUPAL

Yet with all this revenue, the state’s e orts to address homelessness, education, transportation and crime have produced outcomes that fall short of what other states achieve.

Further, what Californians find incomprehensible is that even with record levels of revenue, our political leadership continues to claim we have a budget crisis. To ordinary taxpayers, this makes no sense.

... what Californians nd incomprehensible is that even with record levels of revenue, our political leadership continues to claim we have a budget crisis. To ordinary taxpayers, this makes no sense.

In an attempt to explain how we got into this mess, California’s Legislative Analyst just issued a report titled “Understanding $100 Billion in Spending Growth: Causes and Fiscal Implications.”

While the report is illuminating, it still leaves the taxpaying public with more questions than answers.

First, the LAO acknowledges the extraordinary growth in revenue over the last six years, from $146 billion in 2019-20 to $248 billion under the governor’s budget proposal for 2026-27. According to the report, “about 70% of this spending growth went to sustaining services that already existed in 2019-20 while 30% went to expanding or creating new services since that time.”

Second, the LAO notes how Proposition 98, which guarantees about 40% of the state’s general fund goes to education, resulted in a huge increase in spending on schools. But taxpayers who are paying attention can rightfully question this increase given that California public school enrollment has fallen for eight consecutive years, dropping to 5.8 million students in 2024-25, a loss of 31,500 students from

■ See COUPAL, page A5

Letters to the Editor

Leikauf is the right choice

EDITOR:

Iam writing this in reference to the criticism I see on a daily basis against Corey Leikauf. I understand if you wish to vote for another candidate, but to assassinate the character of Corey and Je Leikauf to justify your choice of candidates is not only infantile, immoral and hateful, but is exacerbated by people hiding and lurking behind false screen names to spew their hate.

Personally, I find this type of behavior cowardly. I know the Leikauf family and have only known them to be a loving, loyal, church-going and a community-oriented family that has done so much for so many in El Dorado County.

I understand many people don’t like change. However Corey Leikauf has the experience, qualifications, background and integrity to not only qualify for the position of Treasurer-Tax Collector of El Dorado County but, no doubt, will

make all voters who trusted him enough to vote for him happy and satisfied that they chose the right candidate.

This in no way diminishes Sean’s capabilities, but let’s be fair, take a good look at both candidates and not jump on the bandwagon of the naysayers who hide behind fictional names and spew lies and hate. Vote for El Dorado County and her people. Vote Corey Leikauf.

Take your advice

EDITOR:

One of our local left-wingers, Joel Ellinwood, talks about making courageous choices. He blames the right for all the violence. He rails against Trump’s rhetoric. That’s rich coming from a lefty. You persecuted

Some lawmakers are having data center

freak-outs

Data centers are big buildings full of machines that process what we do on our phones and computers.

AI requires even more computing power, so companies are eager to build more data centers.

The usual suspects are freaking out.

“We must stop it!” says Rep. Alexandria OcasioCortez.

“Slow it down!” demands Sen. Bernie Sanders.

Data centers do use lots of power, and water to cool them down because their computers generate heat. One center can use as much power and water as a small town.

“Uses resources like a madman!” says one protester in my new video.

Last year, protesters blocked or stalled at least 48 projects.

One fired 13 bullets at an Indiana politician’s home because he supports data centers.

Now AOC and Bernie Sanders have introduced a bill that will pause new

center construction.

That’s just dumb.

“If our economy was allowed to develop at the speed of Bernie Sanders, we would be significantly worse o ,” says Paige Lambermont of the Competitive Enterprise Institute.

“If we slow down, other countries are not going to. You’re going to be getting the authoritarian Chinese version of AI rather than the United States innovators’ version of AI.”

She downplays fears about rising electricity prices.

So far, “It has raised prices nowhere,” adds Lambermont. “Prices in Virginia are rising more slowly than some other places, even though more data centers are in Northern Virginia than anywhere else.”

The Institute for Energy Research found “no statistically significant relationship between data center concentration and faster increases in electricity rates.”

Still, as demand for AI increases, there will be price increases. But

Data centers do use lots of power, and water to cool them down because their computers generate heat. One center can use as much power and water as a small town.

that’s mostly because short-sighted politicians have limited our use of the most e cient fuels, like natural gas and nuclear power, favoring wind and solar power.

“If we hadn’t done that,” says Lambermont, “we probably would have between 100 and 200 gigawatts of slack capacity in the power grid already.”

Part of the problem: government rules that say only government, or a government-approved business, may produce and sell power.

And government’s monopolies are unbelievably slow.

Microsoft now su ers from that because it struck a deal with Constellation Energy to reopen the nuclear reactor at Three Mile Island.

The renovated plant will be able to produce power next year, but our government won’t allow Microsoft to use that power until other utilities build powerlines in other states ... often hundreds of miles away.

Government rules stop so much progress.

A company could avoid burdensome rules by building a plant for itself, o the grid.

Elon Musk did that, setting up gas turbines to power his supercomputer in Tennessee.

“If you’re Elon Musk, you can build your own,” notes Lambermont, “but most people can’t a ord to build a gas or nuclear plant.”

Even if they could, why would they invest billions when the next politicians in power might be socialist luddites?

“No one wants to invest (billions) in something that the next presidential administration could come in and say, ‘Actually, it’s been illegal the whole time,’” sighs Lambermont.

Some in congress now want to make building o -grid power easier.

“You can do new and interesting

SPORTS ANOTHER BRUIN WIN

2 seed, beat No. 15 Johnson by a 15-0 score in five innings. The Bruins host a quarterfinal game against Capital Valley Conference rival in No. 7 Christian Brothers at 4 p.m. today in Shingle Springs.

Cougar spikers bring home Division IV crown

Mike Bush Mountain Democrat correspondent

One word could best describe how the El Dorado High School boys volleyball team has played this season. Dominance.

The Cougars won the CIF SacJoaquin Section Boys Volleyball Playoffs – Division IV title match on Saturday. El Dorado, which entered the playoffs as the No. 3 seed, dominated top seed and defending section champion Livingston by posting a 3-1 win; the final scores were 25-20, 18-25, 25-20, 25-20, 25-18.

Many players contributed to the victor over the Wolves from Merced County; Cadence Hoyt had 17 kills for the Cougars, while teammate Quinton Maciel had 14 and Koe Stevens 11. Finn Hornsby contributed nine kills. Austin Howser and Hoyt finished the match with 15 and 12 digs, respectively.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Ask for what you want. Even if the answer is no, you’ll feel better for being direct, and you’ll grow from having the nerve to go for it. Each time you ask, you strengthen your voice and sense of possibility.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You know what you’re good at, but it’s mighty fine to be told about it, as you will be today — complimented, applauded and entrusted with an honored responsibility. The spirit of the team rides on this.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). According to some metric, you are weak in a certain area — which is not really the case. Replace “weak” with “inexperienced,” and it makes sense. If the skill is necessary, you’ll acquire it and build competence and strength through practice.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Getting what you want is no fun if it the others in your life don’t want it for you too. Their feelings about your success will matter. It’s not something to solve in a day, but do pay attention to the dynamics.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). What you used to think of as rejection, you now see as data — just good information that helps you figure out good timing, positioning or value. You’ll record the patterns so you can adjust the pitch, the product or the audience.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Excess has a new meaning now because your taste has evolved, your budget is different and your sense of value has become more refined. Choosing what truly satisfies you becomes its own form of wealth.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Hard work takes many forms.

Today it’s not so much the manual labor that matters, but the labor of honesty, which takes courage. Today’s work has to do with digging down deeper in yourself to face what is hard to look at.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You’ll find yourself create pressure on purpose. Deadlines, public commitments, money on the line, collaborators waiting... these kinds of pressures focus attention and force decisions. Without it, goals drift into fantasy and remain out of reach.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’re curious, which draws you into all kinds of experiences. Be intentional about where your energy goes. Not everything needs your participation. Not every invitation deserves the pleasure of your company.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). It feels as though you have everything necessary to complete your project except for one crucial factor: time. Time won’t be granted or given, but it can be set aside, carved out, protected or stolen.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Perhaps you’ve extended yourself where there’s little return. Simply noticing is enough to start a natural corrective shift —

Henry Metropulos also had a huge match for the Cougars against Livingston (37-7), which won the Western Athletic Conference title with a perfect 14-0 record. He dished out 43 assists in the four sets. Winning the section title has earned El Dorado (25-9 overall and 9-0 in the Sierra Valley Conference) a berth in the California Interscholastic Federation Boys Volleyball State

Championships. The brackets are expected to be released on Sunday.

The first-round matches are scheduled to be played at host sites on Tuesday starting at 6 p.m.

El Dorado won its last 10 matches, including the four playoff matches against Livingston, Bear River of Lake of the Pines, West Campus of Sacramento and Mesa Verde of Citrus Heights. Six of those victories came with a 3-0 score.

Fourteen of the Cougars’ total wins were done in 3-0 sweeps, including matches against county and SVC rival Union Mine. Ponderosa posted a 3-2 win over El Dorado inside the Bruins’ gym in Shingle Springs in a nonconference match on Feb. 27.

El Dorado has won the last four SVC titles. During that time span, the Cougars have accumulated an overall record of 57-30.

Seven of the 14 players on the Cougars roster are seniors — co-captain Christian Randolph, Sam Notaro, Maciel, co-captain Hoyt, Metropulos, Stevens and Cameron Lewis.

There are six juniors on the squad — Ashton Grover, Howser, Hornsby, Ian Seckington, Jeff Hatcher and Andrew Canlas — and Adrian Aguilar is the lone sophomore.

Jim Curtis is the El Dorado head coach. Jessica Voelker, along with Tyler Lindsay and Emma Miles, are assistant coaches.

Motocross classic roars into Folsom News

release

FOLSOM — No race is like it in California; the 57th annual Coke Pump Hangtown Motocross Classic is back at Prairie City State Recreation Park with the pros racing all day on Saturday, June 6. It‘s not just any motocross race, but the oldest and one of the most coveted trophies on the 11-race Pro Motocross Outdoor Championship Series. As host to professional motocross racing since 1968, the Dirt Diggers North Motorcycle Club has developed the Hangtown Classic into the crown jewel of the series, hosting the largest crowds of the season, year in and year

out. On Friday, June 5, the Women’s Motocross Champion, WMX, will kick off its series with the first moto of the outdoor season. On Saturday, practice and time qualification will be wrapped around the second and final moto of the WMX. Opening ceremony will start at 12:30 p.m., with two motos each of the men’s 250cc and 450cc classes — a full action-packed day from sun-up to sun-down. To celebrate the 57th Annual Hangtown Classic, the Pro Pits will be open in the morning, 9 a.m. to noon. To get tickets and full race information go to hangtownmx.com and click on tickets.

EID modernizing its fleet, continuing dam project

Jack Carrerow

Mountain Democrat correspondent

The May 11 El Dorado Irrigation District Board of Directors meeting, minus Division 1 Director Paul Penn, included an award for the leadership of EID General Counsel Brian Poulsen from the Association of California Water Agencies, a positive quarterly financial report for the district, mussels update and the addition of new vehicles to the district with the subtraction of vehicles way past their prime.

Mussel management

Finance manager Madison Franklin presented a positive picture for the district’s quarterly report, telling the board the budget “met expectations.”

Also painting a positive picture was Emily Bertram with California State Parks, who reported there has been a very low occurrence of mussel infestation in county waterways.

“We’re monitoring it and fortunately, (the mussels) have not caused any problems or damage to district facilities,” she said.

Bertram told the board California State Parks has set up many checkpoints. “Part of our budget increase is due to the sta ng,” she explained. “We’ve gone from part-time monitoring of boats and other watercraft, to full-time.”

Research shows these mussels can rapidly multiply.

“Each female can produce around one million babies in a single year,” Bertram noted during a slide presentation.

She also pointed out that marine biologists have been able to ascertain the entry point for these Asian species was the Port of Stockton.

“From there, they go into the Delta and infiltrate almost all the water bodies in this area and have been found to have made it to Southern California,”

she added.

Director Pat Dwyer pointed out that management at Lake Oroville, the second largest reservoir in the state, has stopped enforcing the boat quarantine rules.

“They believe the chemical makeup of the water won’t support the mussels,” Dwyer said.

New rides

Fleet and Building Services Supervisor Greg Royal gave a presentation where he asked the board to consider awarding contracts to DuPratt Ford Auburn in the not-to-exceed amount of $444,230.24 for the purchase of nine replacement vehicles, Owen Equipment of Fairfield in the not-to-exceed amount of $778,148.09 for the replacement of one sewer combination truck and PCP Motorsports of Sacramento in the not-toexceed amount of $37,025.80 for the replacement of two Kawasaki Mule ATVs.

“All of these vehicles have outlived their service time,” Royal told the board. “We especially need to replace the Vactor vacuum truck; it’s probably the most important piece of service equipment we have.”

The district has about 200 vehicles, most of which are serviced in house.

“The problem comes when you can no longer get parts for them,” Royal said.

Dwyer asked what was done with the old

equipment.

“Do we just take a loss and junk it?’ Royal said all the phased out vehicles go directly to auction.

“That way, we get some return on our investment,” he said.

The board voted 4-0 to award the contracts.

Dam work

Another action item included a presentation by senior civil engineer Daniel Goldman, who asked the board to consider approving a contract amendment to GEI Consultants in the not-toexceed amount of $398,032 for additional design, environmental and grant application support services for the Silver Lake Dam Replacement Project. That was approved in a 4-0 vote.

Up next

The next meeting of the EID Board of Directors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Monday, June 8.

The tentative schedule includes: the Reservoir 1 Floating Cover Emergency Replacement Project; a professional services agreement for basis of design report for the Pleasant Oak Main and Diamond Springs Main upgrade project; professional services agreement to update the inundation maps of the

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HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB: Come play tennis for fitness, fun & friendship. Meet at El Dorado HS tennis courts on Acacia St., Placerville, Wednesdays 9-11 except June -August, hours 9-11. Social activities & monthly tennis clinics. Some tennis ability required. Call Trisha 530-651-8121. Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA), for the CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on March 16, May 18, July 20, September 21, and November 16, 2026. The location is at the Denny’s Restaurant, 3446 Coach Lane in

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DEMOCRATS – Come

County grand jury reports address jails, airports and more

The El Dorado County Grand Jury has recently released several reports on the county website. All findings and recommendations can be found in the full reports online. The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors and a ected county departments will respond to the reports over the next few months.

Jail safety Security is a top priority at El Dorado County jails and detention centers. The El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce and Probation Department take that responsibility seriously according to the 2025-26 El Dorado County Civil Grand Jury report of El Dorado County jails at South Lake Tahoe, Placerville and the South Lake Tahoe Juvenile Treatment Center.

The report, “El Dorado County Detention Centers,” was published recently at eldodradocounty.ca.gov/ Grand-Jury by the Superior Court, which annually appoints 19 county residents as grand jurors to serve as citizen watchdogs over local government.

The grand jury investigation included site visits, interviews and review of previous state and local reports. Conditions at all facilities are acceptable, but the Grand Jury raised concerns over sta ng levels and vacancies.

According to the report, “The Sheri ’s O ce has made progress in recruitment by streamlining the application and testing process. The sta ng concern requires additional action to ensure appropriate sta ng levels at both the South Lake Tahoe and Placerville locations.”

The grand jury cited the expansion project at the Placerville Jail scheduled for completion in 2026 that will add 22,000 square feet to the facility. The expansion will add a new medical services area, female housing and other ancillary services. The report notes the expansion will not add to inmate capacity. The grand jury has concerns that this expansion amplifies the need to fill vacant positions for correctional o cers and jail sta , especially at the Placerville Jail.

Airport management

More than five years have passed

Pretrial hearing for accused wife killer set for mid-summer

Odin Rasco Mountain Democrat correspondent

A hearing to determine if the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce has su cient evidence to bring Geo rey Snyder to trial for the alleged murder of his wife, Shelley Snyder, has been scheduled.

Snyder faces a charge of firstdegree murder for the Feb. 17 death of his wife, a third-grade teacher at Buckeye Elementary School in Shingle Springs. Geo rey, 57, was arrested by El Dorado County sheri ’s deputies responding to

a report of a man brandishing a firearm at the couple’s residence on Big Oak Road south of Placerville. Deputies detained Geo rey and located Shelley, 56, who had died after being shot, according to EDSO. The pretrial hearing, to be held before Judge Mark Ralphs in El Dorado County Superior Court Department 2, is set to take place at 8:30 a.m. on Aug. 5 and is expected to take a full day.

Snyder remains in custody at the El Dorado County Jail in Placerville, held on no bail. Earlier this year he pleaded not guilty.

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

Clog-free, maintenance free gutters!

since the Civil Grand Jury issued recommendations in 2020 to countyowned airports. Progress was minimal until 2024, when the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors moved the Airports Division from the Planning and Building Department to the Chief Administrative O ce.

The grand jury acknowledges the county’s initiative to update policies and procedures related to county-owned airports. According to the report, the undertaking is commendable, yet concerns remain regarding the openness and e ectiveness of its implementation.

The report, “El Dorado County Owned Airports – Navigating Change,” was published recently at eldodradocounty.ca.gov/Grand-Jury by the Superior Court.

The grand jury investigated recent changes to the Airports Division after its operations returned to the CAO as approved by the board in 2024. Following the transfer, CAO sta promptly initiated updates to airport operations by revising existing ordinances and policies. Standards and procedures for airport users’ ground leases were updated to reflect policy changes.

As a result, the grand jury

investigated several complaints with concerns ranging from ground lease terms and insurance demands to inadequate representation and public outreach.

Grand jury website

People invited to participate in civil grand jury interviews are primarily referred to the El Dorado County Civil Grand Jury website for information about the process. What happens when the website doesn’t provide su cient detail to address questions or alleviate concerns regarding what to expect during an interview? The grand jury investigated.

The report, “El Dorado County Civil Grand Jury Website,” was published recently at eldodradocounty.ca.gov/ Grand-Jury by the Superior Court.

According to the report, the grand jury conducted a comprehensive review of its website to ensure content was clear and understandable to individuals unfamiliar with the civil grand jury process.

The Superior Court lists qualifications for grand jury service and encourages applications at eldoradocounty.ca.gov/ Public-Safety-Justice/Safety-Justice/ Grand-Jury/Apply-To-Join.

A-frame sign reminder to downtown businesses

Business owners in Placerville’s Commercial Business District are being reminded to follow city regulations governing A-frame and sandwich board signage, including permitting, design standards and pedestrian safety requirements intended to preserve the city’s historical character.

Under the Placerville Municipal Code, businesses may use A-frame signs in the CBD zone, but the signs must meet specific size, placement and material standards before they can be displayed.

The city requires businesses to obtain an annual sign permit through an administrative approval process.

Applicants must submit a sign design, site sketch and an approximately $50 fee.

aesthetic, approved signs should be constructed from durable materials such as wood, metal or chalkboard surfaces. Plastic and illuminated elements are prohibited.

The guidelines also emphasize pedestrian accessibility and public safety. Businesses must maintain a minimum 48-inch-wide clear path along sidewalks to comply with ADA accessibility standards and ensure unobstructed pedestrian travel.

Signs must be placed within 12 inches of a building facade during business hours and may not be attached to public fixtures. Businesses are also required to ensure signs are properly weighted and stable during windy conditions.

City guidelines limit A-frame signs to a maximum height of 36 inches and a maximum width of 24 inches. Each side of the sign may not exceed 5 square feet in area.

To maintain compatibility with Placerville’s historical downtown

Compromise

According to the city’s guidance, A-frame signs should primarily promote temporary events or special promotions rather than serve solely as permanent business identification. The regulations are intended to balance business visibility with safety standards and the preservation of Placerville’s historical downtown environment.

district’s contribution to healthcare benefits during contract negotiations. Teachers will receive a retroactive 3.5% raise for the 202526 school year and an additional 2.5% raise for the next school year beginning in July. The health benefits contribution was raised to $19,000 for new teachers.

“The deal is close to what the union was asking for but spread across two years instead of all at once,” Faculty Association President Eric Larsen said. “It is definitely better than what the district was o ering before mediation because it is ongoing instead of a one-time bonus. Both the faculty association and the union are concerned about the governor’s use of onetime money to fund schools, because it is hard to budget without a guaranteed source of ongoing revenue.

proprietary system is guaranteed not to clog, or we will clean it for free.

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“We are still concerned about the rising cost of health insurance,” he added. “Premiums skyrocketed last year and our new contract covers only part of that cost for new hires. If the insurance companies raise their rates again over the summer it will really hurt.” Larsen commended the teachers who came together to support one another and stand firm during negotiations.

Anniversary to our dear parents. e years may pass,

“We couldn’t have reached this settlement without everyone who wrote letters, spoke to the board and brought their neighbors and friends out to the board meetings,” he told the Mountain Democrat. “If we want to see change, we need to organize and speak up. There are so many things we take for granted in the workplace that only exist because generations before us unionized and fought for better working conditions.”

The Mountain Democrat reached

to the

and responsible way,” Watkins added.

“That includes defined boundaries, limited hours of operation, on-site security, ID verification and wristband systems, restrictions on containers and clear signage and enforcement measures,” she explained. “Ultimately, this is a low-risk and high-impact opportunity. It supports local businesses, strengthens communities and provides the county with a flexible tool to thoughtfully activate its commercial areas without requiring new infrastructure or longterm commitments.”

El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Debbie Manning noted many benefits to establishing Entertainment Zones, including, “providing flexibility for special events, outdoor dining, live music, seasonal activities and community celebrations.”

She maintained the zones would strengthen partnerships between businesses, property owners, local government, public safety and community organizations and help El Dorado County become more business friendly.

“Our goal is to work together with the county business owners, property owners, and community stakeholders to ensure Entertainment

Zones are implemented responsibly, safely and in a way that reflects the needs of each community,” Manning added.

Once regulations are established and approved by the Board of Supervisors, each Entertainment Zone proposal would go through a review process, according to Rob Peters, deputy director of Planning. The proposals must address:

• Geographic boundaries

• Days and hours of operation

• Allowable open alcoholic beverage containers

• Alcohol type

• Signage

• Reporting requirements

“We’ve been reviewing other jurisdictions within California that have adopted these Entertainment Zones, and there are now many,” Peters told the board. “And we’re using some of those as examples of how we might put together our ordinance.

“Staff has been coordinating closely with the sheriff’s office … to understand their position on the matter and to identify any areas of concern,” he added.

“I won’t speak directly for them, but they are generally in support of the concept, but want to … coordinate closely on each individual one to make sure all

the aspects of the Entertainment Zone have been met for safety and law enforcement consideration.”

Though EDH Town Center provided the catalyst for discussion, groups in other areas of the county are also looking into the option, Peters said.

District 4

Supervisor Lori Parlin enthusiastically supported the Entertainment Zone concept, noting Alcohol Beverage Control regulations are extremely challenging for people organizing public events and fundraisers.

“They’re trying to get all the food permits done for the vendors … and then these excessive regulations have made it just crazy,” Parlin said. “If you own — a restaurant where the event is, people can’t take their beverages out and walk around to see the vendors. Then that means the restaurant has to police people and say, ‘You can’t take that out,’ and it’s caused some really icky situations. This is really a nice thing for … these kinds of events. I think Town Center is a perfect place, of course, for it. That’s a no brainer.”

Parlin also advocated for Entertainment Zone status in Georgetown.

“This is exactly what we need for Founder’s Day, and it’s coming up,” Parlin said. “Can we have this done by this

year — September for Founder’s Day? Is that even doable?” Peters couldn’t promise a rollout before September but didn’t say it couldn’t be done.

“I think it’s a good idea countywide,” District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero said. “I think Town Center is an excellent place to start. They do dozens of events a year … and they actually sell alcohol, but they have to bring in trucks from outside the area oftentimes to sell it. They do a very good job managing that with roped off areas where you can have alcohol. They have security on

EID

site. “This would be an expansion to that and allow the businesses that are paying rent and trying to thrive to sell more alcohol that people are going to buy anyway,” he continued. “The only thing I regret about this particular legislation is the fact that it mandates … non-metal containers,”

District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine said. “They make beer and wine in aluminum, and they’re highly recyclable. It’s so much better than a plastic red cup.”

Fees will be associated with the creation of each Entertainment

Continued from A7

Project 184 dams; a contract for Pinecone restroom replacement and a Sly Park Recreation Area restroom; replacement of Project 2025 Urban Water Management Plan, which will include a public hearing and adoption; a public

Continued from A1

order to file a written motion, citing the April 30 California Supreme Court 7-0 decision in re Gerald John Kowalczyk on Habeas Corpus, which states that bail must be set at an amount that offenders (except in capital cases) can afford, the exception being offenders charged with violent offenses, sexual assault or posing a severe risk to public safety.

Fiddler was last seen alive on Oct. 5, 2024, at PJ’s Roadhouse in Placerville. His body was discovered in a remote area by detectives on

Zone, which did prompt some concern from the public. Addressing the comments, Chief Administrative Officer Sue Phillips said, “Just as with any other service that we provide, we can only recover the cost of providing that service. So this will not be viewed as a revenue source for the county. The fees will be minimal to cover the cost only.”

Ferrero made the motion to conceptually approve a county code amendment to allow for the establishment of Entertainment Zones. Parlin seconded the motion, which was approved 5-0.

hearing on the mid-year capital improvement plan update; construction contract change order for Strolling Hills pipeline improvements project; and the Gateway El Dorado specific plan water supply assessment.

Oct. 10, ending a days-long search conducted by law enforcement and community members.

In addition to the first-degree murder charge, Lighthall faces a special allegation that a deadly weapon was used, in this case a cord, and the criminal complaint also claims the crime was carried out with “planning, sophistication and professionalism” and “involved great violence, great bodily harm, threat of great bodily harm or other acts disclosing a high degree of cruelty, viciousness or callousness.”

PROSPECTING

Section B ■ mtdemocrat.com

IN THE KNOW

Stellar Students

Congratulations to Jared DeSemple of El Dorado Hills who was recently named to the Dean’s List and Tom Fruge of El Dorado Hills and Ti any Zink of Cameron Park who were recently named to the President’s List at Southern New Hampshire University.

Congratulations to Ella Gilzean of Shingle Springs who recently graduated from Concordia University, Nebraska.

Congratulations to Alexandra Nichols of Cameron Park who was recently named to the President’s List at Trine University.

May 15

The El Dorado Hills Arts Association will host its 2026 Art Studio Tour Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The self-guided tour travels through artists’ studios in El Dorado Hills, Folsom and Shingle Springs. To learn more about the artists and for detailed information about studio locations including a map visit eldoradohillsarts. com.

The Golden Road Gathering will take place at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds, Friday through Sunday. For tickets and more information visit goldenroadgathering.com.

The Sierra Renaissance Society presents Emergent Behavior and the Nexus with Philanthropy by speaker Bill Roby from 1-3 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. Admission is free for members; the public is invited to attend two meetings for free. For more information visit srsedc.org.

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host a Grand Opening/ Ribbon Cutting 4:30-7 p.m. at Sentivo Vineyards For more information call (530) 6778000 or visit sscpchamber. org. RSVP at tinyurl. com/2ex9bvpj.

Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center at 2675 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines will host its Taco Night fundraiser from 4:30-7 p.m.

Featuring Chef Alli’s sirloin fajitas in addition to tacos with all the xings, beans and rice. The bar will be open selling margaritas, beer, wine and sodas. For more information call (530) 6478005 or visit pollockpinesca. org.

The Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park presents Home Grown Comedy with Marcel Weiland, Gabriel Alexander and Kul Black at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.

The So a in Sacramento presents IN A NUTSHELL: Storytelling Series at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre. org.

The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley presents Brandy Clark at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.

May 16

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County will host All About Lavender, 9 a.m. to noon at Blackstone Community Clubhouse, 1461 Blackstone Parkway in El Dorado Hills. In El Dorado

Five years of Green

Andrew Vonderschmitt

Features editor

For five years, the music pouring out of a modest storefront on Main Street in downtown Placerville has carried more than melodies. At The Green Room Social Club, owner and founder Jennifer Teie said the venue has become a gathering place built as much on community resilience as live entertainment.

Now, the independent music venue at 251 Main St. is celebrating its fifth anniversary with a weeklong series of performances running May 20-25, featuring local favorites, touring acts and an all-star open mic night intended to showcase the range of music that has defined the club since its opening.

“Over the past five years, The Green Room Social Club has built a consistent, welcoming space for live music and events in a landscape where independent venues often struggle to survive,” Teie said. “From shifting audience habits to rising operational costs, the journey has required resilience, creativity and a deep belief in the value of shared experiences.”

The anniversary celebration doubles as the launch of the venue’s sixth season. Scheduled performances include local favorite Red Dirt Ruckus featuring Jonny “Mojo” Flores on May 20; Born and Raised and Mangini Misfits on May 21; HipNosis on May 22; Hangtown Thrash featuring Black Encore, From Depths Arise and Lysol Toast on May 23; The Scott Nipper Group and Loose Engines on May 24; and an all-star open mic night May 25.

From backyard to Main Street

For Teie, the Green Room’s story began before the venue itself

existed.

She launched the Just Exactly Perfect Festival several years ago as a way for friends to gather around live music. What began as a backyardstyle celebration quickly expanded into a largescale event, eventually leading her to form Teie One On Productions. Then the COVID-19 pandemic brought the live entertainment industry to a halt.

Later that same year, the Main Street building that now houses the Green Room became available.

“I purchased the building and spent that time during COVID renovating it and making it into what it is now,” Teie said.

Building a space

Transforming the space into a licensed live entertainment venue proved more complicated than simply opening a bar or restaurant. Teie said the business spent years navigating permits and licensing requirements in order to legally operate as an all-ages music venue.

The club initially opened with a beer and wine license while operating as a restaurant. It later secured a conditional use permit for live entertainment

through the city before eventually obtaining a Type 90 California alcohol license allowing the venue to serve full liquor while remaining an all-ages entertainment space.

“When it became available in California, we snapped it up,” Teie said of the license. “That was the final objective and the final goal.”

The process came with steep financial challenges.

Teie, whose professional background includes real estate, construction and project management, said she entered the hospitality industry with little experience running a restaurant or entertainment venue.

“It was a whole new world,” she said. “School of hard knocks.”

The venue currently accommodates about 100 standing guests or between 50 and 78 seated attendees depending on the room setup. Teie said the club was intentionally designed with professional sound, lighting and staging systems to distinguish it from casual bar performances common in small-town entertainment districts.

“There really isn’t anything that compares,” she said. “The acoustics in our room are built for sound.”

Commitment to quality

That commitment to production quality has also shaped the club’s business model. Unlike bars o ering free live music, Green Room operates strictly as a ticketed venue.

“You don’t go to the movie theater and just buy a bag of popcorn and sit around,” Teie said. “You’ve got to buy the ticket to the movie.”

Teie acknowledged that the model can create challenges in a community where audiences are accustomed to free performances at restaurants and bars.

She said convincing both musicians and patrons to support ticketed live entertainment remains one of the venue’s ongoing hurdles.

Still, the business has shown signs of growth.

“The numbers are all going in the right direction,” Teie said.

“We’re increasing the amount of people that come every month. We are leveling up on our capacity and the touring artists and bands that we bring in.”

She said the venue now regularly sells out multiple weekends each month and has hosted performers who also appear at larger regional venues in Sacramento

A hub

Beyond concerts, the Green Room has increasingly become a community gathering space. The venue has partnered with nonprofit organizations, hosted fundraising events and provided performance space for local arts groups. Teie said community involvement was always central to the club’s mission.

“I’ve always felt that it’s important to support the things that are important to our community,” she said. Among the organizations that have used the space is the Crocker Art House, which has hosted recitals and fundraising performances at the venue. Teie said she eventually hopes to transition the Green Room into a nonprofit organization governed by a board of directors, though startup debt and operating costs remain obstacles.

“I founded it. I was the visionary and I created it,” she said. “But this isn’t about me. I did this for the community.”

The venue’s future plans include expanded

Kick off the summer

With a barbecue and concert

Mimi Escabar Special sections editor M yka Estates, 3405 Carson Court in Placerville, is having a Memorial Day Weekend Summer Kick Off BBQ & Concert on Sunday, May 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with barbecue by Chef Lisa Scott, live music by Lilian Ghafari from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and delicious wine. Make a reservation at (530) 644-3474 to secure a table near the band and food. The menu will be Brazilian gaucho steak with chimichurri, rice, beans and salada de palmito (palm heart salad). A vegetarian option is grilled portabello mushrooms instead of steak (please notify in advance). Dessert (available for purchase in addition, not included in ticket price)

is pave, a Brazilian layered dessert similar to tiramisu.

Tickets get you seating by the band and a plate of food. Fees will be charged the day of.

A vocalist since the age of 5, Ghafari has a country/blues/rock sound and sings familiar tunes from different genres while playing her acoustic guitar. Born and raised in Northern California, she graduated from the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass. and lived in New York City where she performed with her band and worked with Grammy awardwinning producers. When she isn’t in her roles as a marriage and family therapist or as a community leader and advocate, the entertainer can be found singing throughout the Sierra Nevada foothills and greater Sacramento area.

Call for local mural artists

Tahoe Fund News release

OUTH LAKE TAHOE — The

STahoe Fund has issued a call for local artists to paint a mural at Cascade Kitchens, a firstof-its-kind food hall and community gathering space in South Lake Tahoe.

The intent of the project is to create a large-scale exterior mural that captures the essence of Tahoe’s natural environment while celebrating the Tahoe Fund’s portfolio of projects.

“We’ve had tremendous success rallying the creativity of our local and regional artist community to create murals in locations around the Tahoe Basin that helps inspire stewardship,” said Amy Berry, Tahoe Fund CEO.

“By painting a mural on the side of the Cascade Kitchens building — above newly installed bike racks made possible thanks to Tahoe Fund donors — we hope to encourage even more people to help take care of Lake Tahoe.”

This project creates an opportunity to contribute a lasting piece of public art in South Lake Tahoe and

invite people to get involved in the collaborative work of the Tahoe Fund and its partners to improve the Lake Tahoe environment for all to enjoy.

“Cascade Kitchens was built for this community — not just as a place to eat, but as a gathering space where everyone belongs,” said Fran Faulknor, owner of Cascade Kitchens. “This mural is an opportunity to put a South Lake Tahoe artist’s vision at the heart of that. We want our walls to reflect the people who walk through our doors every day, and we can’t wait to see what our local talent brings to life.”

Paint for the mural will be generously supplied by Kelly Brothers Painting.

Artists are invited to submit a proposal for consideration until May 31. The artist selected will be notified the week of June 15, with the installation occurring between late June and July, weather permitting. Learn more about the project and submission requirements at tahoefund.org/cascadekitchens.

A stirring celebration for America

News release

FOLSOM, Calif. — The Folsom

Lake Symphony proudly presents “American Salute,” an inspiring concert program celebrating the spirit, history and sound of America. Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 6, and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 7, at the Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, “American Salute” brings together some of the most iconic and beloved works in the American musical tradition. The program showcases a vibrant blend of orchestral masterworks, Broadway favorites and unforgettable film scores, offering something for audiences of all ages.

The concert opens with the lively rhythms and colorful orchestration of George Gershwin’s “Cuban Overture,” followed by his brilliant “Variations on ‘I Got Rhythm,’” featuring internationally acclaimed pianist Natsuki Fukasawa. The program continues with the sparkling wit and energy of Leonard Bernstein’s “Candide Overture.”

A highlight of the performance is

Aaron Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait,” narrated by esteemed baritone Ralph Cato. Combining powerful orchestration with the timeless words of Abraham Lincoln, this moving work reflects the ideals and resilience that have shaped the American story. The program also features selections from beloved stage and screen productions, including music from “Star Wars,” “South Pacific,” “Wicked” and more, creating a joyful and uplifting musical experience.

Additional performers include a special appearance by the Virtus Choir from John Adams Academy, Roseville.

Cato is internationally recognized for his warm, expressive voice and compelling storytelling across opera, oratorio and concert repertoire.

Fukasawa, a Steinway Artist and Fulbright Scholar, has performed at major venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and is widely praised for her artistry and versatility.

For tickets and additional information, visit folsomlakesymphony.com.

Orangutans return to new habitat

News release

SACRAMENTO— After months of construction, the Sacramento Zoo has reopened its renovated orangutan habitat.

The orangutans have returned to the updated habitat and guests can see

them exploring the new features. Renovations include additional climbing structures and elevated platforms intended to encourage natural behaviors, providing greater enrichment opportunities.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony takes place at 9 a.m. May 22.

Oak Ridge’s “Chicago” cast earns fan favorite recognition

Students from Oak Ridge High School earned top audience honors at the Sara Bareilles Awards on Sunday, May 3 at the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco.

Oak Ridge’s performance of “We Both Reached for the Gun” from “Chicago: Teen Edition” was voted the Fan Favorite Overall Cast Performance during the awards ceremony, which drew more than 1,500 attendees

The Sara Bareilles Awards recognize outstanding high school musical theater productions from more than 57 schools and more than 100 musicals across Northern California. Awards adjudicators selected

Oak Ridge High School’s production of “Chicago: Teen Edition, Verdon Cast” as one of the top five musicals of the year.

Oak Ridge junior Eli Isham also was named one of the top five lead actors for his portrayal of Billy Flynn.

The Verdon cast traveled to San Francisco to participate in a full day of workshops led by industry professionals in dance, voice and acting alongside students from the other nominated schools.

Students later performed on stage at the Orpheum Theatre during the awards program. While Oak Ridge did not take home the overall production or lead actor awards, the cast’s performance ultimately earned the audience-selected fan favorite honor.

Orpheum Theatre.

Choral Society/Philharmonic collaboration coming to Sacramento

SACRAMENTO — The Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra is concluding its 30th anniversary season with a collaboration alongside the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera, presenting “Symphony No. 9” at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center on May 30 at 7:30 p.m. and May 31 at 2 p.m.

Club Continued from B1 membership programs, more themed events and continued investment in production and facility improvements. Teie also hopes to eventually expand the building’s capacity through additional renovations.

For now, she said survival and sustainability remain tied directly to community support.

“If we don’t have artists that are willing to play and we don’t have guests or a community that are willing to pay for a ticket for exemplary production value, we won’t survive,” Teie said.

Despite the challenges, she remains optimistic as the venue enters its sixth year.

“We’ve created a safe space and a stage for our community,” Teie said. “A space that feels like home while supporting artists, serving the community and growing with the people who believe in the mission.”

Looking ahead, Teie plans to introduce an elevated calendar of live performances, themed events and collaborative experiences. These e orts are part of a broader vision to strengthen the venue’s foundation, expand its reach and continue evolving as a cultural hub for the region.

The quinquennium celebration begins on May 20. For tickets or more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

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

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Historical Aircraft Display May 16 & 17

June 13 & 14

8:00 am to 12:00 noon at Cameron Airpark Hangars

Known for presenting large-scale choralorchestral masterworks, the Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra will bring its chorus, orchestra experience and community roots to the collaboration. Under the baton of Ari Pelto, the Sacramento Choral Society & Orchestra Chorus will join the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera Chorus and orchestra musicians to perform one of Ludwig van Beethoven’s most recognizable works.

Organizers said the partnership represents a significant moment for Sacramento’s classical music community, uniting two regional arts organizations in a shared commitment to artistic excellence, collaboration and community connection. The combined choruses will create a large vocal presence reflecting the spirit of unity at the heart of Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.”

Learn more at sacphilopera.org.

Featured Gold Country art rooted in nature and storytelling

T. R. White

Gold Country Artists Gallery

From reclaimed wood and handcrafted jewelry to celestial photography and whimsical folk art, four featured artists at Gold

Country Artists Gallery are bringing distinctly personal visions and creative storytelling to the gallery’s May exhibition.

The award-winning artists’ cooperative in Placerville is showcasing the work of Spike Mills,

Carol Clark, Lorrene Baum-Davis and Randy Mitchell throughout the month.

Spike Mills

For Mills, artistic inspiration began in childhood while growing up in Wawa, Ontario.

Mills said he began seeing faces in nature at age 8 — in the woods, on the lake and carved into rocks along the shores of Lake Superior. After working as a gold miner and lumber quality control inspector, he eventually devoted himself to art full time, experimenting with clay before settling on wood as his preferred medium.

His work blends influences from Egyptian, African, Polynesian and Coastal Northwest styles. Mills said he “wears his feelings on his art,” creating pieces that range from fierce and regal to whimsical and reflective.

Paying homage to the indigenous Ojibwe people, Mills began creating masks called the “Faces of Gitchee Goomee,” the Ojibwe name for Lake Superior meaning “All Powerful Water.”

Among his featured works are the “Gitchee Goomee Wave Planter” and “Butterfly Planter,” along with smaller pieces including wall hangings and potted planters.

Mills works exclusively with sustainable wood and often reclaims downed logs from the Caldor Fire area in the Eldorado National Forest.

“I hope the viewer feels like they can create

something themselves,” Mills said. “Something powerful with their own hands.”

Carol Clark Clark said her love of photography began with a childhood Brownie camera and grew into a lifelong passion for capturing the beauty of the natural world.

A Northern California native, Clark focuses on landscapes, wildlife and night photography.

“There’s something about the planet that we inhabit and the vastness of space surrounding it,” Clark said, “that draws me to celebrate its beauty.”

One of her favorite recent destinations was Grand Teton National Park, where she visited for the first time in 2024. Although she originally intended to photograph mountain scenery and wildlife, she instead encountered ideal conditions for night photography and experienced the aurora borealis for the first time.

Her photographs “Milky Way” and “Magic in the Sky” capture dramatic cosmic scenes, while another favorite image, “This is What Relaxation Looks Like!,” features a black bear resting in the crook of a tree.

Clark said she enjoys hearing viewers describe the emotions and memories her photography inspires.

Lorrene Baum-Davis

Baum-Davis credits her parents with shaping both the artistic and technical sides of her work.

She said her mother inspired her love of art, while her father, a military engineer, introduced her to welding and metalworking. Those skills eventually led Baum-Davis to study goldsmithing at the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Francisco, where she later joined the faculty.

Baum-Davis now specializes in one-of-akind wearable art using polymer clay, fused glass and metal techniques. Her jewelry features bold colors and abstract shapes often arranged as matching pendant-andearring sets.

She also creates whimsical fantasy figures she calls “Whimseys,” imaginative little creatures inspired by storytelling and folklore. One piece, “Garden Ballerina,” was created as part of an art challenge through a European guild. In addition to her visual art, Baum-Davis participates in local community theater as a singer, actor and director.

Randy Mitchell

Mitchell spent more

than 35 years teaching history at San Jose State University before focusing more heavily on his artwork inspired by the early American West.

Mitchell said his experience with Wild West shows and living history reenactments strongly influenced his handcrafted wooden folk art and toys.

His favorite creations include kinetic cowboy figures, fly fishermen, mountain men and posable bears. He is also known for whimsical haunted houses featuring bats, humorous gravestone inscriptions and playful spooky details.

Mitchell creates miniature dioramas, bookmarks and custom business card holders using mostly recycled wood or pine and oak harvested from his mountain property near Placerville. He said he hopes his artwork gives viewers a sense of history while also making them smile. Gold Country Artists Gallery features regional artists working in media including jewelry, photography,

Art exhibition highlights creativity and inclusion

Mother

at the El Dorado County Library, Placerville offering visitors an opportunity to experience art that celebrates creativity, individuality and community.

The exhibition, which runs through May 29, features an eclectic mix of acrylic paintings, mixed-media collage, sculpture, book design and folk art. Together, the works transform the library into a gallery filled with bold colors, imaginative storytelling and a wide range of artistic styles.

Created by artists participating in Mother Lode Rehabilitation, the exhibit reflects both personal expression and artistic growth. Each piece offers a glimpse into the perspective and creativity of its maker, while also demonstrating the dedication and joy behind the work.

About Mother Lode Rehabilitation

MORE is a day program serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of educational and enrichment opportunities. Its Creative Arts program includes visual, performing and media arts designed to encourage self-expression, independence and

artistic choice in a supportive environment.

Program leaders said participation in the arts helps individuals develop confidence, learn new skills and explore creative possibilities while building connections with others.

Visitors to the exhibit can expect a rich sensory experience, with works ranging from whimsical and playful to thoughtful and highly detailed according to organizers. The exhibition also serves as a reminder of the important role inclusive arts programs play in strengthening community engagement and providing opportunities for artists of all abilities to share their talents publicly.

The exhibition is open Tuesday through Saturday during regular library hours at the Placerville Library, 345 Fair Lane.

For more information about MORE and its programs call (530) 622-4848 or visit morerehab.org.

County’s Mediterranean climate, lavender is a beautiful, fairly drought tolerant, and pest resistant garden plant, with a wide variety of specimens in many colors and sizes. Add to that it’s fragrance and culinary use and you have a plant worth exploring. Discuss botany, how to plant, care for, harvest and use. We’ll also teach you to propagate lavender to take home with you. Register at tinyurl. com/557s5xah.

Join American River Conservancy for Wakamatsu Open Farm Days at 10 a.m. and Wine and Starry Night at 8:30 p.m. Learn more at arconservancy.org

Marshal Gold Discovery State Historic Park will host Voices of the Pioneer Cemetery a unique living-history event, at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. For more information visit golddiscoveryparkassociation. org.

The El Dorado Hills Arts Association will host its Spring Studio Tour from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Learn more at eldoradohillsarts. com.

The El Dorado High School Music Department will host, A Taste on Main Street, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the lot behind the courthouse on Main Street in Placerville. Learn more at edhscougarmusic.org.

All About Equine’s Boots and Bling will take place at 4 p.m. at the Folsom Community Center. For more information visit allaboutequine.org.

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

Myka Estates, 3405 Carson

Court in Placerville, is having a Community Night Dinner from 6-8 p.m. The dinner is family style food service and communal tables. The night’s wine pairing theme will be Rhône inspired wines with a menu of: first course — panzanella salad with heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, fresh basil and rustic bread with champagne vinaigrette; second course — creamy roasted garlic and wild mushroom campanelle pasta, herbs de Provence crusted chicken thighs with roasted summer vegetables and pearl couscous; and third course — raspberry clafoutis with lemon coulis. All fees will be charged day of. For reservations call (530) 644-3474.

Historical Murer House in Folsom presents Italy on Wheels at 12:30 p.m. For more information visit murerhousefoundation.org.

The Rancho Cordova River City Concert Band presents Showstoppers! A Musical Spectacular” at 3 p.m. at the Cordova Performing Arts Center, 2239 Chase Drive in Rancho Cordova For more information visit rcconcertband.org.

The Sacramento Women’s Chorus

presents This Shining Night at the Sofia in Sacramento at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

May 17

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host Yoga in the Park at 9 a.m. at Saratogqa Park. For more information and preregistration visit eldoradohillscsd.org.

The Sacramento Guitar Society presents Eric Wang in Concert, 3-5 p.m. at Tims Music 6818 Fair Oaks Blvd, Carmichael. For more information visit sacguitarsociety. org.

The Sacramento Blues Society presents The Mick Martin Celestial Birthday Celebration with The Mick Martin Big Blues Band at the Sofia in Sacramento at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

May 18

Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host The Power of Reminiscence Presentation 1-2 p.m. at the Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills.

May