Mountain Democrat: Friday, May 29, 2026

SOME GAVE ALL

■ Memorial Day tribute honors the fallen, those still carrying wounds

Joseph Thuesen Special to the Mountain Democrat

Officer in Charge Capt. Jack Babbitt, USMC (ret.). barked the command, “Call to attention!” promptly at 11 a.m. Monday, May 25, at the El Dorado County Veterans Monument as hundreds gathered for the 19th Memorial Day ceremony in Placerville. A bugle call followed and then the OIC commanded Sergeantat-Arms Sgt. Tyler Dennis, USMC, of the 12th Marine Corps

PLACE

2 dead, 2 injured in crash into river

Shelly Thorene

A woman and a young child died after a May 26 car crash on Highway 50, the California Highway Patrol confirmed.

A 2024 Hyundai SUV traveling eastbound just past Ice House Road left the roadway on Highway 50 and crashed into the American River around 4 p.m. Tuesday, killing a passenger identified as Maria Fife, 35, of Tracy. The driver, Mathew Fife, 41, of Tracy and two boys, ages 5 and 11, sustained major injuries and were transported to Marshall Medical Center in Placerville. The 5-year-old boy died Tuesday night.

CHP Sgt. Brian Samms said it was raining at the time of the crash and initial reports indicate the vehicle lost control in the curve and went down the embankment into the American River.

Pest hitches ride on Costco plants

Carla Hass

El Dorado County Chief Administrative O ce El Dorado County Agricultural Commissioner LeeAnne Mila is advising residents to take precautions after the invasive glassy-winged sharpshooter was found on grapevines delivered to Costco stores throughout California. Residents who purchased grapevines or other plants at Costco between April 21 and May 26 should:

• For all plants: Contact the El Dorado County Agriculture Department at (530) 621-5520 or email eldcag@edcgov.us immediately to schedule pick up of grapevines and/or inspection of other plants and receive guidance on how to prevent further spread and infestation of the glassy-winged sharpshooter.

• For grapevines: place two garbage bags over

Man missing in forest

Mountain Democrat sta

A 60-year-old hiker has gone missing in Desolation Wilderness, the El Dorado County Sheriff’s office announced.

EDSO staff and Search and Rescue teams are still looking for Jason Coughran, who was declared missing on Memorial Day, May 25. Coughran is described as a white male adult, 6 feet, 2 inches tall and and weighing 150 pounds. He has brown hair, hazel eyes and an athletic build. Coughran was hiking into Desolation Wilderness from Fallen Leaf Lake and is possibly wearing khaki shorts. He was last heard from at approximately 4 p.m. on May 25. Anyone who

ESSENTIALS

Brent Douglas Wilson

Sept. 23, 1967 – May 15, 2026

Brent Douglas Wilson passed away suddenly on May 15, 2026, at the age of 58, leaving behind a world that feels a little quieter and a lot less fun.

If you ever met Brent, chances are you never forgot him. He had the rare ability to light up a room the moment he walked in — usually with a smile, a big laugh, or a story that somehow got better every time it was told. He never met a stranger, only future friends, and he inspired an instant a ection in people.

Brent lived life the way it should be lived: with humor, adventure, generosity, and a suitcase always half-packed. He loved traveling, making memories, and finding the best food, best deals, and best people wherever he went. Whether he was across the world or just across town, he had a way of making every outing feel like an adventure.

While he was known for making people laugh, what truly made him special was how deeply he loved and cared. His clients became friends, his friends became family, and his family was the center of his world.

Brent leaves behind a loving family including children Bailey and Spencer, and his beautiful granddaughter Rowan Louise lovingly named after his mother; brother Derek (Eliza), his beloved Edie and their extended family with Joseph, Andrew and Joei Catherine. They were his greatest pride, the center of his world and the people he loved most fiercely.

He also leaves behind countless stories, unforgettable memories, and people who are better for having known him. The world lost a truly incredible man.

A bonding celebration of Brent’s life will be held on June 27, 2026. In true Brent fashion, guests are encouraged to bring their favorite stories and biggest laughs. There will be live music and a variety of food and drinks, as Brent would insist it be an eclectic and spirited gathering. Guests are also encouraged to wear comfortable and cheerful clothing.

Eleanor “Elly” Kozlowski

March 6, 1937 – April 8, 2026

Eleanor “Elly” Kozlowski, 89, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she was the second youngest of five children of Ray and Ermalinda Braun. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Tom, sister Colleen, and brothers “Bud,” “Skip,” and Dave. She is survived by her eight children: Sr. MaryBeth, SDSH, Chris, John, Karen, Teresa, Marie, Anne and Stephen, as well as 10 grandchildren.

At 89 years old, she leaves behind a legacy of ledgers, lists, and figures to make any accountant’s wife proud. The numbers of her life are staggering: 62 years of devoted marriage, 8 children, 42 years calling Placerville home, and no fewer than 100 days per year during retirement spent hiking, snowshoeing, or kayaking. She kept endless lists of books read and those waiting to be devoured and dissected with her book club. Yet if the exact quantity read remains a mystery, her love of reading surely fueled her sense of adventure and empathy for others.

Driven by a deep Catholic faith, Elly embraced a philosophy of service: where she saw injustice or inequality, she actively sought solutions. Throughout her life, she was involved with over half a dozen charities, both at St. Emydius parish in Lynwood, CA, and St. Patrick’s in Placerville, and in the wider community. She gave her time generously, happy to serve others in both grand and simple ways, all while caring for her large family.

A miracle-maker in the kitchen, one year she helped roast 47 turkeys for the St. Patrick Thanksgiving Community Dinner. She was a leader in the founding of the “Upper Room” Dining Hall and possessed the rare talent of making something out of nothing and anything out of ground beef. Meanwhile in her home kitchen, she produced dozens upon dozens of baked goods annually, including her ever-popular peanut butter bars.

She believed in recording details and recounting stories — like making her children tally every single strawberry picked from the garden one summer. Yet, she balanced this record-keeping discipline with a storytelling wit and a lively sense of humor. Blessed with the gift of the gab, she could make friends with strangers everywhere and loved swapping stories, even the ones you may have already heard.

A dedicated adventurer with the “Hangtown Hikers,” she trekked over 500 miles a year well into her 70s, always eager to see the waterfall at the end of the trail or whatever was around the next bend. Her travels are documented in a collection of over 300 maps, journals, and photos, a testament to her curiosity and a life filled with the delight of exploration.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

The Society Devoted to the Sacred Heart https://sacredheartsisters.com/donations/ or Snowline Hospice.

A memorial mass will be held at 10am on Saturday, June 20th at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Placerville, California, with a Rosary at 9:30am and a luncheon afterwards.

Dale “Senior” Martin

Carter, Sr. Feb. 28, 1945 – May 15, 2026

Dale “Senior” Martin Carter, Sr., age 81, passed away peacefully at his home on May 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Dale was born on February 28, 1945, in Menlo Park, CA, to Ernest and Joy Carter, and was one of five children.

Dale spent his childhood enjoying the outdoors and learning the value of hard work. The family had a cabin at Bass Lake and Dale spent many summers fishing and water skiing there. In 1965, Dale married the love of his life, Sue. Together they would build a successful business and a strong, loving family. In 1976, Dale moved his young family to Camino, CA, in search of a better life and greater opportunities. This move also brought the family closer to the mountains that they so enjoyed.

In 1983 Dale opened Carter’s Garden & Pet Supply (commonly referred to as “The Nursery”) in Placerville where he and his wife worked side by side until their retirement in 2007. Around the garden center Sue simply referred to Dale as “Senior”. The nickname stuck and family, friends and customers fondly referred to him as such for the remainder of his life. He enjoyed sharing his extensive plant knowledge and passion for gardening with all who visited the nursery. His love for the outdoors extended beyond gardening, as he also enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting throughout his life. Even into his 80s, Dale could often be found tending to his garden and appreciating the simple beauty of nature.

Dale was a devoted husband and father whose quiet strength, DIY knowledge, and unwavering dedication to family will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Dale was also a true patriot who had a deep love for our country.

Dale is survived by his wife of 61 years, Sue Carter; his children, Dale Carter Jr. (Nicole), Dean Carter (Karen), and Deanna Harris (Heath); along with 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. A private celebration of life will be held for friends and family.

Katherine JoAnn LePere

March 23, 1930 – Feb. 12, 2026

JoAnn LePere went home to be with the Lord on February 12, 2026 at her home in Cameron Park, Calif., surrounded by family. She was almost 96. A long-time resident of El Centro, Calif., she moved to Cameron Park in 2002. While in the Imperial Valley, she taught Physical Education at Central Union High school for 20 years. Promoting physical fitness was a part of her everyday professional and personal life that began in her college years.

JoAnn was active in P.E.O both in El Centro and Cameron Park. The organization promotes educational opportunities for women. She held several chapter o ces and participated in national conferences over the years.

She served as a deacon at the El Dorado County Federated Church of Placerville. She loved Jesus and lived that relationship out in her kindness to others.

JoAnn will forever be remembered as the center of our family. A wife of 73 years to Chuck. A mother to LuAnn (Jack), Kelly (Susan) and Kyle (Mitzi). A grandmother to Katie, Kay, Nicole, Jay, Jackie and Joel. A great-grandmother to 6 and counting. Her great joy was to be surrounded by family, on a camping trip, on holidays or just watching Jeopardy on TV.

She is preceded in death by her husband Charles B. “Chuck” LePere, father Walter E. Herbst and Mother Leona Lucille Herbst, sisters (and their spouses) Nancy Meloeny (Gene), Norma Keesee(Dennis) and son-in-law Jack Hurley. She is survived by one sister, Terry Beebe (Ralph).

A Memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 27 at the Federated Church in Placerville, Calif. with a reception to follow.

In memory of JoAnn, please direct donations to one of these charities that were important to her: El Dorado County Federated Church, 1031 Thompson Way, Placerville, CA 95667 Food Bank of El Dorado County P.E.O, Cottey College

/ tbmcnaughton@mtdemocrat.net

/ nstack@mtdemocrat.net Mimi Escabar Special Sections Editor 530-344-5070 / mescabar@mtdemocrat.net Andrew Vonderschmitt

/ andrewv@mtdemocrat.net Shelly Thorene

Robert “Bob” Alan Pietrowski

July 22, 1952 – May 15, 2026

Robert “Bob” Alan Pietrowski, age 73, of Placerville, CA, passed away at his home on Friday, May, 15, 2026.

Bob was born on July 22, 1952 in Phoenix, Arizona to Patricia “Pat” and Alan “Al” Pietrowski.

He graduated from El Camino High School in Woodland Hills, California, before serving as an Air Tra c Controller in the U.S. Army. He later earned his bachelor’s degree from Humboldt State University (now Cal Poly Humboldt), spending his summers driving logging trucks and honing the work ethic he became known for throughout his life.

He went on to work as a Controller for large construction companies, a career that perfectly balanced his talent for numbers with opportunities for getting out into the field driving trucks. He was equally comfortable behind a desk or behind the wheel.

In his free time, his greatest joy came from cars, boats, Harleys, and anything mechanical that gave him an excuse to spend time in the garage with a wrench in hand.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Pat and Al Pietrowski, and his sister Patricia ‘Pattie’ Pietrowski, and brother-in-law Richard ‘Dick’ Farnsworth.

He is survived by his significant other Stephanie Ellis, daughter Aly McMillan (Nick), his sister Barbara Valdez (Reuben), granddaughters Kenley and Shelby, as well as nieces, nephews, and close friends.

A funeral was held on May 28 at St. Patrick Church in Placerville at 11 AM.

Victoria Anne Marie Perez Mott

Sept. 23, 1955 – Feb. 25, 2026

Victoria Anne Marie Perez Mott, born September 23, 1955, went to visit her angels February 25, 2026.

Victoria lived her entire life in California, which began in Berkeley. She and her family first lived in Merced, but in 1960 her mother Rose packed up young Victoria and her four sisters and moved them to their little red house on Smith Flat Road in Placerville. Victoria was the fourth girl in line of Rose’s children.

She attended kindergarten through second grade at Smith Flat School, followed by Sierra, Edwin Markam, and El Dorado High School where she graduated in 1973. She took various classes at American River Junior college here in Placerville as well.

After her graduation from high school she moved to Southern California, worked briefly for Flight Connector in Hawthorn, then moved to Hermosa Beach where she worked for Jeans West. She lived in Hermosa Beach amongst artists and very creative Bohemian people where she fit right in. Victoria moved back to Placerville in 1975. She worked at Hangtown Pharmacy for a time then gained employment at Security Pacific Bank, which later became U.S. Bank. In 1977 Victoria married William C. Mott to whom she remained married for almost 49 years.

Victoria and William raised two beautiful girls together in their home which she a ectionately called “Mott Mountain” in Smith Flat. In 2003 she retired from banking and became a successful “lampwork” bead artist owning several small galleries. Her outgoing spirit led her to join and/ or lead many organizations in the community including art associations, Girl Scouts, El Dorado High School Band-Aids, Travel Concepts International’s tour groups, El Dorado Mineral and Gem Society, Jeepers’ Jamboree, St. Patrick Ladies’ Society, and St. Patrick Family Group. Victoria loved life, dancing, art, music, her family, friends, U.S. and world travel. Her travels sent her as far as Southeast Asia, Russia, Turkey and Peru.

She is survived by her husband William, her daughters Sarah Beal and Allison Wertens, five grandchildren, Tucker Trana, Lilly Beal, Charlie Trana, Rose Trana and Timothy Beal. Her sisters, Mary Jo Howard, Cyd Perez, Linda Keep, and Patricia Ram remain, all of whom live locally and gave her much joy throughout life. She is a beautiful soul and has ascended into heaven to fly amongst the Angels.

A celebration of life will be held, Saturday, May 30 in Shingle Springs, CA. Please contact a family member for more information.

Paying one lump sum for the subscription not in your

David Clark “Davey Doc” Wiser

Nov. 11, 1941 – March 16, 2026

When asked his date of birth, David Clark Wiser would always answer: 11-111941, 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

Sharyn Miller

April 25, 1945 – April 11, 2026

Sharyn was born on April 25, 1945, to Edgar and Arvolla Spiva in Yuba City, California. She was preceded in death by both her parents and brother Edgar Jr. After she graduated from Yuba City High School she worked for an airline company in San Francisco. After moving back to the Sacramento area, she attended Sacramento Jr. College where she received her degree, with honors. She then worked for various school districts in the administration department. She retired from Ponderosa High School in May of

Jimmie Dwayne Jobe

June 15th, 1943 – April 4th, 2026

(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!

2000. Sharyn is survived by her husband (Bob), daughter Jyll Flippo (Alan), 2 grandsons and 7 great grandchildren. Sharyn was a very gifted woman who could sing, dance, knit, and crochet. She enjoyed doing them all. She also loved working with the children in Awana.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday June 13, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Foothills Church 3939 Cambridge road, Cameron Park California 95682. In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations to the Placerville Pregnancy Center. You can add pictures and comments at greenvalleymortuary.com

Jimmie (Jim) Jobe, 82, resident of Cameron Park, CA passed away at home on April 4th, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Linda Sue Jobe; his sons, Mike (Jeni) Jobe and Je Jobe; his stepchildren, Gina (Todd) Keel, Byron (Cathy) Jobe, and Ginny Jobe; and his cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Born June 15th, 1943, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Jim grew up in St. Helena, California, where he made lifelong friends and learned the value of hard work while helping his family grow vegetables and grapes for winemaking.

A gifted electrical engineer with a love of cars, he joined the U.S. Navy in 1962 to specialize in nuclear electronics, but returned home to help care for his mother. Jim built a long career with the state of California and

in corporate security management, retiring in 2011.

Jim and Sue shared a life full of travel, road trips, camping, and joyful gatherings that made friends feel like family. They loved opening their home for holidays and pool parties, and cherished their many trips to Mexico and Hawaii.

For over 30 years, Jim was a devoted member of the Poker Plus Club, creating lifelong friendships. In retirement, he enjoyed winemaking, rug hooking, and various other activities with Sue and family.

Jim will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and steady willingness to help others.

Services will be held at Miller Funeral Home in Folsom, CA on May 29th, 2026 at 11am.

EL DORADO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE CRIME LOG

2:17 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a store on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

2:56 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Old Bass Lake Road in El Dorado Hills.

4:09 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Faith Lane in Diamond Springs.

5:55 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Faith Lane in Diamond Springs.

9:06

10:35 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Carmen Drive in El Dorado

11:19 p.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public on Golden Center Drive in Placerville.

April 2

4:03 a.m. Trespassing was reported at a store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

6:57 a.m. Burglary to a vehicle was reported at a motel on Greenleaf Drive in Placerville.

8:55 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Snows Road in Camino.

11:27 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Shadow Hawk Drive in Shingle Springs.

2:07 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Dean Road in Somerset.

6:52 p.m. Battery was reported on State Highway 49 in El Dorado. An arrest was made.

9:27 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a grocery store on Francisco Drive in El Dorado Hills.

April 3

7:25 a.m. Trespassing was reported at a clinic on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

9:12 a.m. Battery was reported on Ridgeway Drive in Pollock Pines.

11:41 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Mother Lode Drive in Shingle Springs.

4:36 p.m. Battery was reported on Deer Canyon Court in Placerville. 4:44 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Wheeler Peak Court in El Dorado Hills.

8:19 p.m. Battery was reported on Ponte Morino Drive in Cameron Park.

OPINION

California Commentary

How the wealth tax allows the Legislature to circumvent Proposition 13

Sacramento politicians are asking Californians to believe a familiar story again: don’t worry, this tax only applies to someone else.

This time, it is wrapped in the language of fairness and sold as a “billionaire tax.” But when you actually read the fine print on how the ballot measure is structured, the reality becomes crystal clear. This is not simply a tax on billionaires. It is a framework that will allow future Legislatures to expand new taxes onto your property, savings, investments, retirement accounts, taxing millions of Californians who would never consider themselves billionaires.

We’ve seen this story before. Today starts with taxing billionaires, tomorrow it’s exploited as a massive loophole to find new ways to tax your home.

That is why this debate matters to every homeowner, every small business owner, every retiree, every family trying to hold onto a home in California, and every Californian who thought Proposition 13 protected them from exactly this kind of slow-moving tax increase.

Families are paying more for housing, electricity, gasoline, insurance, groceries, and child care than almost anywhere else in America.

Because this measure creates something far more dangerous than a onetime tax. It creates a new mechanism to tax every Californian’s assets — their home equity, savings account, retirement savings, even their furniture and pets.

Supporters want voters to focus on billionaires but the unions included language for future Legislatures to amend and expand the measure later with a twothirds vote. Once that authority exists, Sacramento politicians could redefine who gets taxed, what assets get taxed, and how far those taxes extend.

One of the most insidious details in the bill is how the authors wrote it to allow the Legislature to circumvent Prop. 13. The authors of the measure aren’t stupid, and they deliberately structured the initiative so the current exclusion for real property exists in statute — specifically in the Revenue and Taxation Code — rather than as a permanent constitutional protection. That distinction matters enormously.

Why? Because the same measure explicitly grants the Legislature authority to amend the “2026

■ See COUPAL, page A5

The Balancing Act

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez confirmed her lack of intelligence in a recent interview when an economics question arose, and she claims to have been an economics major from her college, Boston University.

In that May 7 interview with podcaster Ilana Glazer, AOC said, “The existence of billion-dollar fortunes is more a systemic failure than it is an accomplishment.

“You can’t earn a billion dollars,” she claimed. “You just can’t earn that. You can get market power. You can break rules. You can do all sorts of things. You can abuse labor laws. You can pay people less than they’re worth. But you can’t earn that.”

So the only way to earn $1 billion is to use slave labor and violate the law, and other things? Please tell us, AOC, what those things are. But she can’t. A short factual analysis will show us another fact. Let’s start with a few dead people. Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison would be good,

Letters to the Editor

A warning to El Dorado County

EDITOR:

El Dorado County has long been prized for its rural character, scenic foothills and independent spirit. We are a red stronghold in a blue state — a community that values limited government and quality of life over suburban sprawl.

Yet, a troubling pattern has emerged. Certain leaders on the Board of Supervisors continue to support large-scale residential subdivisions far beyond what longtime residents need. These projects are marketed almost exclusively to buyers from the Bay Area and Sacramento, fundamentally threatening our county’s political future.

For conservatives, this is an urgent warning: Why support development policies that dismantle our demographics and accelerate a shift toward a Democrat majority?

The blueprint for this transformation is visible in Folsom. Once a distinct, conservative-leaning

community, Folsom’s aggressive expansion turned it into a dense extension of the Sacramento suburbs. This “build-out” didn’t just bring tra c; it altered the city’s political DNA. What was once a reliable partner in regional conservative interests is now a case study in how rapid growth dilutes a community’s identity.

In El Dorado County, the bu er is thinning from both ends. We face a double-edged sword: the massive “import” of urban voters and the steady “export” of our own base. Across California, thousands of fed-up conservatives are leaving for more traditional states. As our local base erodes through this flight, the influx of out-of-area transplants becomes even more transformative.

As of early 2026, Republican registration here stands at approximately 42%, compared to 30% for Democrats. However, the No Party Preference (NPP) bloc now represents nearly 19% of active voters — a group often comprised of

but their fortunes were only in the hundreds of millions. Bell sold o his Bell stock too quickly. If he kept half of it, his heirs would have been super rich. Interestingly, Edison continued inventing, first the phonograph and then the motion picture camera.

Henry Ford is a great example of earning billions.

Ford, who died in 1947 with an estimated net worth of $2 billion (today his fortune would be 100 times that), didn’t invent the assembly line. That was a Ransom E. Olds idea. Ford invented the moving assembly line, which is now used in industry everywhere since its turn-of-the-20thcentury invention.

Ford didn’t break any rules, and especially didn’t under pay his workers. In fact, in 1914 he doubled his workers salary to an unheard of at the time $5 a day. It kept his workforce intact and he created a lot of customers in them who now could easily a ord to buy a Model T, which sold at the time for $360.

Ford shows being a billionaire comes from hard work, taking care of your employees and creating a product people want.

In 1926, Ford created the five-day, 40-hour week for his workers. Ford took good care of his employees.

Ford shows being a billionaire comes from hard work, taking care of your employees and creating a product people want. Ford earned every penny.

Ford helped enormously in the winning of World War II by building a factory and then producing almost 9,000 B-24 bombers (over half of total production).

How about Steve Jobs, who passed 15 years ago, who earned billions of dollars with a net worth of more than $10 billion in 2011? Apple, his company (he was a major shareholder), is known for playing by the rules and has very well paid employees.

He was the opposite of the AOC economic model. Jobs was a bit eccentric; he rode a 1969 BMW R69S motorcycle. But he and his partner Steve Wozniak invented some great computer products. Wozniak “retired” early and is now only worth about $140 million and was known for giving much of his wealth to other employees. But Jobs revolutionized

telecommunications in 2007 with the iPhone, and made his billions. Now let’s turn to current self-made billionaires Elon Musk, Larry Ellison, Je Bezos, Larry Page/Sergey Brin and Mark Zuckerburg. Musk made it with his Tesla EV, Ellison did it with software, Bezos did it with online sales, Page and Brin created a search engine (Google) and Zuckerburg did it by creating social media. All of them did it by creation, plus a lot of hard work. All pay great wages, play by the rules and created something special that people wanted.

Musk took a small fortune he made from Paypal and created the best EV in the world. Ellison created the best database software and Bezos paved the way for online shopping. You can buy almost anything at Amazon and for a decent price. That’s why Bezos is worth $241 billion. The Page/Brin Google search engine made them worth a combined $600 billion. And there are hundreds more billionaires who made

COMICS

Davy Thomas Memorial bursts into Placerville Speedway

Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

Fresh off an event in Marysville last Sunday, the Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour is right back at it this Saturday for the $6,000-to-win/$600-to-start Davy Thomas Memorial at Placerville Speedway.

The May 30 event marks round three for the SCCT Winged Sprint Cars and continues the busiest stretch of its campaign in the Golden State.

This Saturday’s show honors the late Davy Thomas, who died in 2024 following a multi-year battle with cancer. He spent time as a crew member and an official, but above all, he was a huge race fan who could be seen frequently in the campground and grandstands throughout California.

After being diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer at the age of 30, he continued to be at the track with his race family as often as he could. Thomas passed away on June 30, 2024, at age 33. The event in his memory is shaping up to again be one of the highest paying in SCCT/ Civil War

Series history.

Thomas was always a big fan of professional wrestling, which will play a theme in the music heard over the PA System during the evening. Several special awards are on the line thanks to numerous individuals, including the $850 Donna Gomez Fast Time Award and the $850 Gene Freeman Hard Charger Award.

The B-main held in memory of Cindy Rounds is a guaranteed $350-to-start for non-transfer cars, while the first four non-transfers in the C-main will earn $150. The “Rounds Kids” have also offered a $200 Hard Charger Award in the B-main.

Current Placerville Speedway point leader and 10-time track champion Andy Forsberg captured the Davy Thomas Memorial last season.

The Auburn veteran topped a strong 45-car field to claim the inaugural running and hopes to duplicate that performance on Saturday. Forsberg is fresh off his seventh career win at the Mel & Marlyn Hall Memorial this past

n See SPEEDWAY, page A7

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Fortune favors following obscure interests. There’s a subreddit for everything. Today brings a stronger flavor, as though your dial skips the mild settings. You’ll love something or strongly oppose it, immerse yourself in it or ignore it.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). The fun part of dancing, conversing, playing ball and so many other things we do in life together is the slightly unpredictable nature of the volley. Today it’s less about the skill and grace involved and more about reciprocity.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Champions develop guts, grit and gumption long before they rise to the top of the league or win anything of note. Whether you’re at the starting line or in the weedy middle of the task, you come to it with the mindset of a champion.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Responsibilities can feel heavier than lead. Putting it all on paper will help you organize your work and chunk the list into jobs that feel manageable. What’s organized on paper will also organize in your mind and perspective.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). No one is happy all the time. Without the contrast of unhappy moments in the past, you wouldn’t be able to capture some of the subtle shades of happiness that visit you today.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Improving yourself will improve a relationship. Making yourself better makes the world better. Control what you can. It usually includes your own attitudes and efforts. You’ll have more influence than you might imagine. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You already do a physical check

before you leave a place. Add one more item to your “keys, phone, wallet” ritual, and that item is: mindset. The attitude you bring will influence how your experience in the world unfolds and what comes out of it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). If you’re dealt a good hand, you can play it on its own merits. But winning hands are relatively rare. It’s more common to strategize your way into a better position, lean on instinct about the other players or bluff.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Whether it’s more comfortable to give or receive, it will be essential to do both. The balance and health of the relationship depends on it. Bonus points for letting others know what you need and how they can contribute.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). It is possible to approach the familiar with fresh eyes, but it’s much harder to do than simply going somewhere you’ve never been before. Adventuring is the fastest way to revitalizing your energy, and a new one is just waiting for you to claim it.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You care to find out what people want. Then you remember it so when you come across

that could help, you connect them to it. This is

OUTSIDE WITH CHARLIE

Camping season

May is done, June is taking over.

It’s camping season. Shorter than it use to be. Hopefully you have a spot reserved. Summer is here campgrounds are open. It’s camping time!

Our nearby national forests — Eldorado, Tahoe, HumboldtToiyabe — have some of the best camping opportunities you’ll ever find.

In our forests, camping comes in two versions. One is dispersed camping, which is outside of a developed campground; the other is in developed campgrounds. Backpacking is an entirely different critter.

In addition to that, there’s camping and then there’s camping with kids. These are two entirely different experiences, which are only loosely connected. Solo, or you and your partner, is pretty simple. Set up, relax, time is your own to do what you want.

With children, all ages, simple isn’t part of the experience. It is a

wonderful experience, just a bit more involved, especially with your younger ones. First, the gear you need will test your ability to get it all in one car, no matter how big the car is, no matter the age of your children or how many children you will take with you. First rule is you have to make sure that all of your children are in the car before you head out to your campsite. This is critical. Count noses then count again, while you are in the car. Same thing when you pack up to leave. You’re good to go, along with all that camping gear. With children, the gear is anything you can think of. After getting your camping gear into the car, load up the entire contents of your fridge. You’ll also need a 5-gallon bucket of sunscreen, 5 gallons of bug spray, and a 5-gallon bucket of chocolate covered peanut M&Ms. The age of your little campers dictates what other goodies you take. Their favorite stuffed animals, a few toys, books, puzzles, some crayons

n See OUTSIDE, page A7

There

or colored pencils and paper, and whatever else they decide they must have. They are in charge, not you.

When you get to your campsite you’ll find that your young children are complete dirt magnets. When they get out of the car, they will instantly look like they’ve been rolling in the dirt and mud for days. They’re happy as they can be.

Your children should wear clothing that is bright and colorful, even your older kiddos, as well as you. Looking like a tree is not your best move. You want to be able to see them easily and they need to see you easily. Anything that looks like the forest should stay home.

Young children will quickly test your ability to keep track of them. They’ll explore everything in sight, follow any butterfly, dragonfly, blowing leaf or ground squirrel that crosses their field of vision. Your job is to keep them in sight at all times. They’re faster than you.

Once you get your campsite set up it’s time for a snack, then a little exploring. What trails are around that you’ll be able to hike? Which ones can your youngest navigate? Which one are you most likely to end up carrying your youngest at some point?

Most of the developed

campsites in our nearby National Forests have a lake as part of the campground. Anytime you’re around any body of water while camping keep an even closer watch your young ones. Keep an eye out for pint sized pirates around the lakes, who may look suspiciously like your children and their friends.

Anytime you are in a boat of any kind everyone should wear an approved and appropriate life jacket. It’s just common sense. It’s good to have a book about the trees, flowers, land critters, ducks, geese and other birds with you. A little education, in the guise of camping, is simply fun. The one that we always take with us is “The Laws Field Guide to the Sierra Nevada” by John Muir Laws. At your campsite, the only place you can have a fire is in the fire ring. Keep your youngest campers away from it. When you leave your site to explore, that fire needs to be soakingly dead out, every time. Now, about food. There are three items you must have with you, no exceptions — graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate bars. S’mores rule the food chain out there. Everything else is secondary. Enjoy the blue skies,

Since 1984! New & Refurbished Computers Sales and Service

Solving problems… it’s what we do!

530-626-1399

Photo by N. Ferris

billowy clouds, all the sights and sounds of the forest, the laughter of your children. At night, the campfire, s’mores and star canopy finish the wonderful days perfectly. Hike, bike, swim, wander, build so many memories. Explore, wander, enjoy. S’mores forever! Leave no trace. Get outside!

Sunday at Marysville Raceway. With two races down it’s Justyn Cox who stands atop the SCCT standings. The driver of the Josh Bates Racing No. 42x will be searching for a strong outing at the Davy Thomas Memorial.

Lincoln’s Tanner Carrick, Roseville’s Colby Copeland, Dunnigan’s Luke Hayes and Marysville’s Dawson Hammes complete the top five in SCCT points after two races.

The traveling Nor-Cal Dwarf Car Association will be the companion class on Saturday. The colorful coupes often put on an excellent show at Placerville Speedway.

Tickets & details

Grandstand seating during the Davy Thomas Memorial will be general admission this Saturday May 30, apart from the reserved seats allocated to season ticket holders that are marked.

via eventsprout.com/event/psr053026.

Saturday, June 20: Watsonville Speedway (66th Johnny Key Classic) Speedway

The pit gate will open at noon, with the front gate opening at 4 p.m. Cars hit the track at 5:15 p.m. with hot laps, Sierra Foothills Wine Services Qualifying and racing to follow.

Hirst Home Team Happy Hour is offered from 4-6 p.m. in the grandstands featuring live music by Randy Sykes and discounted Coors Light/ Coors Banquet Beer at the Cold Zone. A magician will also be on hand to provide entertainment under the shade structure.

The Placerville Speedway is located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville, 100 Placerville Drive in Placerville. For more information log ontoplacervillespeedway.com.

Upcoming Elk Grove Ford SCCT events

Adult tickets cost $25, while seniors 62 and older, military and juniors 12-17 will be $22. Kids 6-11 cost $10 and those 5 and younger get in free. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or online

Saturday, June 13: Petaluma Speedway (Wings Over Wine Country)

384 Placerville Dr, Ste. B • Placerville Porch Pirate Safety Zone! Now offering a SAFE place for your packages. Have your packages delivered here at NO CHARGE!

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 334-2970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com egins June 17, 2026

We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun Wednesdays 11:30 AM – Summer Play – 3941 Park Dr #100,

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

Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA), for the CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on March 16, May 18, July 20, September 21, and November 16, 2026. The location is at the Denny’s Restaurant, 3446 Coach Lane in Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for information and programs.

DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530) 503-7400 or see edcdems.org for more information.

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

Continued from A1

Recruiting District, “Front and center.” Dennis responded with “Aye aye, sir” and a perfect about face, ordering, “Sound assembly.” The bugle called twice. “Company, forward march,” Dennis said, saluting and leading other veterans in the crowd to follow suit.

This year’s ceremonial company was mostly made up of the Scouts of America youth who proudly marched onto the memorial grounds, holding their flags high, converging behind the monument Honor Wall. The formal Presentation of Colors was performed by the Civil Air Patrol Squadron 85, Color Guard, marching in with the American Flag, a service flag and two members with faux rifles and then performed a “present arms,” by lowering of service flags in honor of the American Flag.

Former prisoner of war Milton Bandera, USN, (ret.), Mr. Bud Sweet, USN (ret.), and Mr. Robert “Gunner” Villalobos, USMC (ret.), led the Pledge of Allegiance and the Ponderosa Chamber Choir, led by Craig Mason, performed the National Anthem.

Chaplain, Lt. Col. Tim Thompson USA (ret.) gave the invocation, requesting a special blessing upon the event, and of those attending and our military veterans and active-duty service members. Special recognition was also provided for those who have received the nation’s highest honors and awards of valor in combat, as well as prisoners of war and Gold Star families.

This year, the focal point was on those who have served and sacrificed themselves for our nation over the past 250 years and a way to remember and honor the stars among us.

The ceremony included a walkthrough easel and billboard size printing presentation with photos, documents and news clippings gathered by Joe Connolly, USCG (ret.) and Cindy Oswald from El Dorado County’s Stories Behind the Stars. On the Sunday before, they started building the presentation, focusing on the 1947 War Memorial plaque with its list of 30 El Dorado County residents’ names who made the supreme sacrifice in World War II. The SBTS has determined that El Dorado County had 60 members of the armed forces killed during WWII. For more information about El Dorado County’s 60 WWII Gold Star veterans, or to inquire about public programs, contact sbts@ edchs.org.

To Connolly’s knowledge. “… this was the first time the 1947 El Dorado [County] High School plaque had been featured” in the Memorial Day program. He also mentioned that the “preservation of the plaque, so that we could tell its story …” would not have happened without Rich Buchanan, the founder of the monument, saving the now 80-yearold plaque for inclusion on the monument wall. It has been there since the founding of the monument in 2006.

The presentation also included recognition of World War II Gold Star veterans’ families and a moment of silence. Following the Remember and Honor segment, one stone and five bricks were dedicated for inclusion with the 2,000 bricks and stones currently at the Veterans Monument. During the dedication, members of the families were asked to stand to be recognized.

There is still space for about 750 more bricks and stones available to be inscribed and added to the monument. The sales of these items serve a dual purpose — one is to honor those friends, family members, and/or comrades in arms by those of us who reside in El Dorado County.

The second purpose is that the sales of these items provide funds to assist the Veterans Monument Scholarship, overseen by Janet Buchanan and the El Dorado County Veterans Coalition scholarship committee.

The ceremony was dedicated to recently deceased Chief Petty Officer Bill Schultz, USN, and Lt. Colonel Greg Etzel, USAF, two founding members of the Friends of the Monument Board of Directors.

The PHS chamber choir led the medley of service anthems. Guest speaker was Tiffany Andrews, Silver Star mother of U.S. Marine Sgt. Tyler J. Vargas Andrews, who was critically injured when a suicide bomb exploded at the Abbey Gate, in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Aug. 26, 2021.

Andrews’ speech was an emotional journey and not a dry eye was in the crowd when she finished. She told the audience about how she was seated next to her son on a C-17 returning to the United States. Sgt. Vargas Andrews had been placed in a medical coma for transport to Walter Reed. While sitting there, she noticed an Afghan mother with her three wounded children also being transported. Through physical gestures, they communicated to each other they were next to their children and sat in silence together.

Andrews also spoke about the importance of service and the meaning behind Gold Star flags (death of a service member), the Silver Star flags (wounded service member) and the Blue Star flags (service member currently serving). During the reading of the names of 13 American service members who were killed serving with Sgt. Vargas Andrews on the day he was injured, Andrews wept and was quietly joined by the Ceremonial Host Joseph Thuesen, USMC (ret.), who softly put his arm around her and whispered, “We can read these together.”

Richard Buchanan later explained, “For those … who don’t understand what took place during [the] Memorial Day ceremony when three Marines left their post and came … to stand [with and] behind the guest speaker, the mother of a grievously injured U.S. Marine … what they did was in line with the core part of Marine Corps culture: Semper Fidelis — always faithful.

“That loyalty extends to fellow Marines and to their families, especially Gold Star and wounded warrior families,” he added. “When a Marine is wounded, the family bears that burden too. Standing with the mother was a visible way to say, ‘You’re not alone, we share this.’”

Janet Buchanan led the presentation of scholarships for nine El Dorado County students, who all had a parent or both parents who are veterans. A total of $12,000 was provided.

Proclamations from the state of California, El Dorado County and the city of Placerville were warmly received and placed at the end of the ceremony this year. Andrews, escorted by Sgt. Dennis, performed the traditional Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony. The Officer in Charge and the Ceremonial Host guided the symbolic placement of the wreath, which was created by the Ponderosa FFA class.

The traditional three-volley rifle salute was led by Command Sgt. Major Mac McAdams, USA, (ret.), with a combined group of the county’s veterans organizations. Bugler Victor Mansfield, USMC (ret.), played “Taps” and the benediction was led by the Chaplain, Lt. Col. Thompson prior to choir members concluding with “Amazing Grace.”

Water agency provides financial assistance to local organizations

News release

The El Dorado Water Agency recently announced that it is providing grant funding to the four urban water purveyors in El Dorado County to help support their urban water supply reliability planning efforts. The EDWA Board of Directors recently approved a supplemental grant program which allocates up to $20,000 for each urban water provider — El Dorado Irrigation District, Georgetown Divide Public Utility District, South Tahoe Public Utility District and Tahoe City Public Utility District — to help them update their Urban Water Management Plans.

The funding will support the districts as they evaluate current and future water demands, assess water supply reliability and identify strategies to improve long-term drought resilience and emergency preparedness. Urban water management plans are required by the state of California and serve as critical planning tools to help water agencies sustainably manage water resources for their communities.

“We are proud to help support the local urban water districts as collaboration is essential to ensuring our county is well equipped to meet current and future water needs,” said Rebecca Guo, general manager of El Dorado Water Agency. “Ensuring water supply reliability is essential for residents, businesses and agriculture throughout our county.”

DWA’s continued partnership with the urban water purveyors

might have come across the hiker is asked to contact EDSO at (530) 6216600 or (530) 573-3051; reference case 26-3613.

will help inform the work they are doing in the Tahoe Basin and west slope. EDWA is currently developing two long-term implementation roadmaps that facilitate a shared understanding of sequencing, triggers, dependencies and conditions for adaptive water management. These roadmaps are intended to help local agencies and stakeholders coordinate investments, prioritize projects and respond proactively to changing water conditions across the region. More information about EDWA’s regional water blueprint initiative is available online at edwateragency. org/Programs-Projects/WaterSecurity/Regional-Water-BlueprintInitiative.

EDWA is also providing grant funding to the American River Conservancy for a project in Pilot Hill focused on long-term fuels reduction to protect water infrastructure by enabling cattle grazing on the land. The fuels reduction project will protect an aboveground water storage tank, raw water shortage pond and canal lateral on the 153-acre ARC property.

“Protecting water infrastructure and strengthening long-term water reliability requires both thoughtful planning and proactive land management,” Guo added. “By supporting projects like this with the American River Conservancy, we are helping reduce wildfire risk while also strengthening our working lands and protecting critical water delivery systems that serve our communities.”

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

Crash Continued from A1

“Unsafe speed for tra c conditions is suspected at this time to be a likely cause for this collision as alcohol involvement has been ruled out,” Samms shared.

“The very first people here were good Samaritans that either witnessed the crash happen or pulled up right after the crash. One who was here, we got a good statement from when I first showed up. He was literally bleeding from his legs and knees trying forcibly to work his way down that embankment to the car right after it happened,” Samms added. “We have a tremendous community up here in Placerville and there’s a lot of good people that would do that.”

plants and secure them tightly.

• For other plants: use the contact information above to schedule Agriculture Department inspection.

• Do not attempt to return, transport or relocate plants.

• Do not place plants in the trash or compost bin.

“El Dorado County has been fighting a costly eradication e ort in El Dorado Hills since October 2024 against the glassy-winged sharpshooter which poses an immediate and serious threat to El Dorado County vineyards,” ” said Mila. “This pest transmits the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, which causes the deadly Pierce’s disease in grapevines.

“To combat this new potential pathway of spreading this invasive pest we are asking for community-

One-way tra c control was in e ect for several hours and the scene cleared just after 8 p.m. the same day.

wide cooperation to help limit this risk,” she added. “If you recently purchased grapevines or other plants at any Costco, contact the Agriculture Department so we can safely dispose of vines and inspect other plants.”

In addition to jeopardizing California vineyards, glassy-winged sharpshooters can damage other agricultural commodities and plants in home landscapes. Members who purchased grapevines from a Northern California Costco should receive emails regarding refunds for their purchase.

GWSS is a highly mobile pest and immediate action needs to be taken. Containment of this pest is vital to protecting the agricultural resources of not only El Dorado County but all of California.

Nestled in the heart of Cameron Park, our private villas and cottages o er more than just comfort — they o er peace of mind. With personalized care that not only meets your loved one where they are today but thoughtfully anticipates their future needs, we graciously treat every resident like family.

Whether you’re seeking the independence of a vibrant lifestyle or the reassurance that comes with additional levels of support, Ponté Palmero is here to help your loved one not just live — but thrive — as part of our caring and connected community.

Spacious oor plans | Beautiful landscaped grounds Caring, local sta | Activities, clubs, outings, and celebrations | Transportation services Restaurant-style dining | Multiple levels of care on one campus

IN THE KNOW

May

The

Young musicians take to the stage

Young musicians take to the stage

News release

Yyou will be able to propagate some of these great herbs to take home with you. Register at tinyurl. com/4cajyn8p.

Shadow Ranch in Somerset will host a Paint and Sip with local artist Alex Kunesh who will walk participants through the creation of a playful ower watercolor painting that you can take home, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit shadowranch.com.

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

Sierra Vista Winery will host Sip, Play & Stay, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information visit sierravistawinery.com.

Bumgarner Winery’s tasting room in Camino will host Trivia Night at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit bumgarnerwinery.com.

Gold Trail Grange in Coloma will host “Paucartambo: The Rest of the River,” a documentary by lmmaker John Armstrong chronicling a 1986 expedition down Peru’s remote Paucartambo River at 6 p.m. For more information visit goldtrailgrange.com.

Art on Center, the Center for Native, Latino and Indigenous Art at 3182 Center St. in Placerville will host an Artist Reception for Internally Speaking with artist JaimEfrain BrisenOchoa from 6-8 p.m. To learn more email artoncenteredc@gmail.com.

Findleton Estate Winery in Camino will host a Sneak Peek of Summer on Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more at nzinwines.com.

The Sacramento Choral Society alongside Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera present Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center on at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. For more information visit sacphilopera.org.

oung performers from across El Dorado County, and for the first time Nevada County, showcased their musical talents during the third annual Golden Road Gathering Kids Showcase held Saturday, May 16 as part of the Golden Road Gathering Music Festival at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds.

Students submitted audition videos for the opportunity to perform live at the festival, where they took the stage with professional sound equipment and technicians on the Keep Smilin’ Stage.

Organizers said the showcase highlighted the hard work and dedication of local youth musicians who spend countless hours practicing and preparing for performances.

The showcase was originally created by local violin and piano teacher Lisa Bond, who also performs with the band “Red Dirt Ruckus.” Bond said she organized the event as a way to provide more performance opportunities for young musicians in the region.

“This event gives kids a chance to shine and build confidence through music and performance,” Bond said.

Caitlyn Miller, who teaches voice, ukulele, piano and acting, assisted with the showcase. Miller is also active in the local arts community through Imagination Theater, Union Mine High School and Crocker Creative Arts.

Festival producer Ryan Kronenberg and other volunteers helped support the event behind the scenes, including providing professional staging and sound production.

Organizers said video from the showcase is currently in production and will be shared on social media channels in the coming weeks.

Additional performance opportunities for participating students are planned at the Green Room Social Club and the Coloma Community Farmers Market at Gold Discovery Park.

Organizers also confirmed the showcase will return next year as part of the annual Golden Road Gathering Music Festival.

See ‘Paucartambo: The Rest of the River’ in Coloma

The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at Gold Trail Grange in Coloma. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the film begins at 7 p.m.

Friends of the River will host a special screening of “Paucartambo: The Rest of the River,” a documentary by filmmaker John Armstrong chronicling a 1986 expedition down Peru’s remote Paucartambo River.

The documentary follows a team of American kayakers as they navigate more than 250 miles of largely unmapped river terrain, descending 13,000 feet from the Andes Mountains into the Amazon Basin. The film has been restored in 4K and will

include a live question-and-answer session with members of the original expedition team. Proceeds from the event will support Friends of the River, a California-based nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the state’s rivers. More information and tickets are available at friendsoftheriver.org.

Barton Health to offer free middle and high school sports physicals

Barton Health News release

Barton Health will o er free sports physicals for middle and high school student-athletes on Monday, June 1, at the Barton Center for Orthopedics & Wellness in South Lake Tahoe.

The free event will take place from 4:30-7 p.m. at 2170B South Ave.

Registration is not required.

Annual sports physicals are required for all high school athletes before participation in athletics under Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association requirements. Middle school athletes are required to have at least one physical on file to participate in school sports.

Athletes are encouraged to attend during the following grade-level time

slots:

• Incoming seniors — 4:30 p.m.

• Incoming juniors — 5 p.m.

• Incoming sophomores — 5:30 p.m.

• Incoming freshmen — 6 p.m.

• Incoming and/or first-time

middle school athletes — 6:40 p.m.

Parents or legal guardians must be present for students to receive

a physical. Students should obtain required paperwork from their school’s front o ce or download forms through registermyathlete. com before attending the event or a scheduled physician appointment.

Organizers noted the sports physical does not replace a student’s annual preventive health visit. More information is available at bartonhealth.org.

Folsom Concert Association announces 2026-27 season lineup

FOLSOM — The Folsom Concert Association has announced its 2026-27 season, bringing an energetic lineup of music to the greater Folsom area and beyond. The season celebrates iconic songs, powerhouse performers and unforgettable live entertainment with five shows featuring acclaimed touring artists and celebrated tribute acts.

The shows will be held between September 2026 and April 2027 on Sundays at 2 p.m. Organizers say the Folsom Concert Association remains one of the most reasonably priced concert series in the region.

All About Joel: A Tribute to Billy Joel — Sept. 13

The tribute show presented by David Clark opens the season. It has captivated audiences across the country with what organizers describe as uncanny accuracy in both piano playing and lead vocals. Clark brings the music and energy of Billy Joel to

life through renditions, stage presence, charisma, wit and humor.

The Dreamboats — Nov. 22

Bringing the sound and style of classic rock ’n’ roll from the 1950s and 1960s, the quartet features harmonies, dance moves and heartthrob charisma inspired by artists including Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly and The Beatles.

Lizzy & the Triggermen — Jan. 10, 2027

The swing band blends retro glamour, powerhouse vocals and swinging originals into what the group calls “vintage music for modern times.”

The band has sold out venues, reached No. 3 on iTunes jazz charts and garnered millions of views on social media.

Sounds of Georgia — Feb. 21., 2027

The high-energy and educational show takes audiences on a musical journey through Georgia’s

rich musical heritage, spanning from the 1920s through the 1990s with soulful melodies, rhythms and timeless lyrics.

CeCe Teneal’s Divas of Soul April 18., 2027

Award-winning vocalist CeCe Teneal performs songs made famous by artists including Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Tina Turner and Whitney Houston. Teneal has toured in more than 47 countries and opened for legendary artists including B.B. King and Buddy Guy.

Folsom Concert Association

Founded in 1994, the nonprofit is a volunteerrun organization that brings live music to the region. Proceeds from the concert season also support programs that bring musicians to seniors in residential communities, provide college scholarships to high school students and refurbish donated instruments for schools in need.

More information is available at folsomconcertassociation.org.

Capital Stage presents Theater Critics Circle award-winning solo performance

SACRAMENTO — Capital

Stage will host a one-nightonly performance of “Takes

All Kinds: Stories of American

Democracy” by Dan Hoyle on Sunday, June 28 at 7 p.m.

Winner of the 2026 Bay Area

Theater Critics Circle Award for Solo Performance, “Takes All Kinds” is Hoyle’s newest work of journalistic

theater, blending humor, empathy and immersive storytelling in a portrait of American democracy during turbulent times.

Drawing from reporting conducted across the country, Hoyle brings to life the voices of everyday people navigating extraordinary civic moments. The production features stories including a formerly conservative preacher’s son who becomes a Florida school-board activist after his daughter comes out, Atlanta voting-rights canvassers reconnecting communities to stories rooted in the Jim Crow era, a former gang member in Missouri working to deprogram violent extremists and barbershop philosophers in Las Vegas.

Using his signature mix of humor, sharp observation and deeply human storytelling, Hoyle channels the conversations he encountered on the front lines of America’s political and cultural divides. The result is a 75-minute solo performance that is by turns funny, urgent, tender and

‘Three

Tunmistakably American.

The production is directed by Aldo Billingslea and was developed with Charlie Varon and Michael Moran.

Billingslea is a professor of theater at Santa Clara University, where he teaches acting. He has worked extensively throughout the Bay Area as an actor and director and currently serves on the board of TheatreWorks Silicon Valley. He is also the theater program director for The222.org in Healdsburg.

Hoyle’s previous solo productions have toured nationally and internationally, including performances O -Broadway at The Public Theater and appearances at Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Oregon Shakespeare Festival and theaters across the United States and abroad. A Fulbright Scholar in Nigeria in 2005-06, Hoyle has also worked as an artist-in-residence at Columbia University and Trinity College Dublin. Tickets and additional information are available at capstage.org.

Decembers’ comes to The Sofia

he Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera will present “Three Decembers” on June 12 and 14 at The Sofia in Sacramento.

Jake Heggie’s “Three Decembers” is an intimate chamber opera following Broadway star Madeline Mitchell and her two adult children, Bea and Charlie, across three Decembers — 1986, 1996 and 2006. As the years pass, the family grapples with old secrets, personal loss and the emotional distance created by Madeline’s fame.

Featuring a libretto by Gene Scheer,

based on a play by Terrence McNally, and a lyrical score by Heggie, “Three Decembers” explores family, identity and enduring relationships. Presented in English, the opera combines emotional storytelling with soaring music in a deeply personal narrative. The production is directed by Vaughn Irving, with Ryan Murray conducting. Performers include Rena Harms as Beatrice, Keith Phares as Charlie and Jill Grove as Madeline. Performances are scheduled for Friday, June 12 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 14 at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information visit sacphilopera.org.

Art on the Divide celebrates with a Garden Party

Art

Art On the Divide Cooperative Gallery proudly opened its doors in June 2010, and each year AODC celebrates the anniversary with a Garden Party. Art on the Divide member artists invite the community to enjoy refreshments, music, the heritage rose garden and art on June 14, noon to 4 p.m. Art on the Divide appreciates the Divide and thanks the community for 16 years of support.

The heritage rose garden is in full bloom and visitors are invited to meander the garden and browse the art. Enjoy the art on the featured wall and pedestals that will highlight the resident artists’ favorite pieces. Mary Beth Dowd will be providing lovely piano music 1-3 p.m. Art on the Divide Gallery/Divide Friends of the Arts and Historical Society o ers art scholarships to Divide seniors. Two such scholarships were awarded in May with $1,500 to each student. This scholarship has been lovingly named “The Terry Green Memorial Art Scholarship” in honor of one of AODC’s artists. For those who would like to join the nonprofit, DFAHS members are welcome. All monies collected will benefit the future awardees and the donation is tax deductible.

Many people refer to the Art on the Divide Cooperative Gallery as the “Gem on the Divide.” AODC members like to think so and the annual party is a celebration of the community and to thank supporters of AODC.

AODC Gallery is located at 6295 Main St. in Georgetown and the phone number is (530) 333-2787. Gallery summer hours are 1-5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

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

Barbara Steinberg

California Watchable Wildlife

Spring has arrived and nature shined a light on these four amazing images. So many high scoring images were submitted in the March-April

photo contest. The judges enjoyed a lively discussion reviewing all of the best images. They were so pleased that four winners could be named for this photo period. An interesting selection including an insect,

mammal and feathered friends showed all the best of their wildlife personalities — on the move and a simple breath.

Winners

Brian Caldwell

California quail — Lake Hodges

“Once in a lifetime? Incredible that it was cool enough in April in San Diego County to see the backlit breath of a male California Quail vocalizing.”

Neely Dunlap

Valley carpenter bee — Santa Clara

“A male valley carpenter bee in flight, actively chasing away other male carpenter bees to defend his territory during the early evening hours.”

Heather Gaburo

Osprey — Taylor Creek State Park

“An osprey just before it enters the water, with talons out, wings tucked and eyes locked on its target. This moment is fleeting, and capturing it cleanly takes a mix of timing, a steady hand, a bit of luck and plenty of missed frames.”

Randy Finley

Bobcat — Point Reyes National Seashore

“A bobcat heading out to hunt for her kittens at last light.”

To learn more about the contest visit cawatchablewildlife.org.

Sydney Joyce InConcert Sierra

EVADA CITY

N— It’s midweek, and kids of all ages are anxious to get out of the house.

“Musical Mornings” on Whimsical Wednesdays has families covered from 11 a.m. to noon at the outdoor amphitheater at the Nevada County Madelyn Helling Library beginning Wednesday, June 24, and continuing through Wednesday, Aug. 5.

Free to the public, Musical Mornings is a popular, family-friendly summer series featuring one-hour morning concerts for listeners of all ages. The atmosphere is casual, with attendees encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks. Kids are invited to wiggle, dance, sing and play.

The summer series, presented by InConcert Sierra, the Nevada County Library and the Nevada County Friends of the Library, features local and regional musicians performing

music geared toward youth while remaining enjoyable for all ages.

Opening the series June 24 is favorite local ensemble “Beaucoup Chapeaux,” an acoustic world-fusion quartet known for an eclectic repertoire blending Parisian cabaret, Balkan folk, Italian café tunes, Celtic airs and jazz

alongside original songs that audiences enjoy singing and dancing to. Musicians Maggie McKaig, Luke Wilson, Murray Campbell and Randy McKean will kick off the season of morning music concerts.

Each Wednesday will feature a different group, including Big Whoop!, The Mountain

Art on the Divide Gallery News release

Art on The Divide Gallery in Georgetown seeks artists for the 13th annual Invitational Art Show, to be held in August. “America the Beautiful” will celebrate American beauty and is particularly poignant as the country’s 250th anniversary is celebrated. Artists in all mediums are invited to submit their entries between now and the July 15 deadline. Submit entries by July 6 and receive early bird pricing. Cash prizes are awarded for

first and second place, and a ribbon will honor the People’s Choice for the entry receiving the most votes.

This is an opportunity for artists to create original art to fit the theme, display their art in a gallery and offer their art for sale. ADOC looks forward to showing the art of the participants. A reception will be held to honor all of the participants. Submission information and entry forms are available online at artonthedivide. com or pickup at that gallery. Any questions may be submitted to aodcgallery@gmail. com.

Road Ceilidh Band, Western Songbirds and Buffalo Gals. Attendees will experience a variety of distinctive sounds and instruments. This season also introduces a new theme song designed to keep audiences engaged and eager to return each week.

Following the concerts at noon, the Nevada County Library System will participate in the federally funded “Lunch at the Library” program, providing free healthy meals and snacks to children and teens ages 18 and younger during the summer. No registration, identification or library card is required. Meals are available on a firstcome, first-served basis. In the event of inclement weather

AODC Gallery is located in historical Georgetown at 6295 Main St.

will host its Business Connections Luncheon at EDH Fire Station 85 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.

June 4

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host its Networking After Hours Mixer at Wally’s Pizza Bar from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.

June 5

Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville, is open 9 a.m. to noon, 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 or poor air quality, check before visiting at tinyurl.com/pszsfdhf.

The Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center, 2675 Sanders Drive, Pollock Pines, will welcome the Wagon Train around 1 p.m.

The celebration begins at 10 a.m. with baked goods, vendors, pony rides for the kids and fire engines. The grill will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Festivities will continue with a chicken and rib dinner beginning at 4 p.m. and the sounds of Last Call from 4:30-8 p.m. For information call (530) 647-8005.

The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Showcase and I Love Film Mixer from 4-8 p.m. and the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.

The Sacramento Zoo will host After Hours, the zoo’s over 21 event from 6-9 p.m. For more information visit saczoo.org.

Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “Hurricane Diane” through June 27 For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre.org.

Now Registration is live for the 2026 Wheelbarrow Races to take place Saturday, June 20 from 5-8 p.m. at the El Dorado County Fair. For more information or to register visit studebakerwheelbarrowraces. com.

Registration is now open for Gold Discovery Park Association’s Junior Ranger Summer Day Camp — Four-day outdoor camp for youth featuring hands-on activities in nature, including ecology, geology, fire safety and crafts. Sessions are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Session One (ages 7-9): June 29-July 2. Session Two (ages 10-12): July 20-23. Snacks provided; bring lunch. Learn more at golddiscoveryparkassociation. org.

El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents East of the Golden Gate, the enduring legacy of Chinese settlers in El Dorado County on display through June 6. For more information visit edchs.org.

Arts and Culture El Dorado will host Pictures and Pages:

Illustrators of El Dorado County, at Switchboard Gallery through June 7. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org. The Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Botanical Brushstrokes through July 19. For more information visit edhtowncenter. com.

Art on Center, the Center for Native, Latino and Indigenous Art at 3182 Center St. in Placerville will host Internally Speaking featuring artwork by JaimEfrain BrisenOchoa through June 28. To learn more email artoncenteredc@gmail. com.

Explore Boeger Winery’s history on the “Stories in the Cellar Guided Tour,” a walking tour through historic sites and cellar spaces at Boeger Winery in Placerville, followed by a seated wine tasting with small bites in the historic cellar. The tours are offered Friday through Sunday at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., require reservations, and are limited to a group size of five. For more information and to make reservations, visit boegerwinery. com.

Cantiga Wineworks, 5980 Meyers Land in Somerset, is having Happy Hour with Fritz on Fridays from 3-6 p.m. Come for the wine, stay for the games, conversation and community. For more information call (530) 621-1696.

Miraflores Winery, 2120 Four Springs Trail in Placerville, is having Sparkling Sundays, the one day of the week where two fabulous sparklers are poured.

Try a complimentary tasting of Blanc de Noirs and Brut. Both are crafted with organically grown grapes from Sonoma County and created in the traditional Methode Champenoise style. Call (530) 647-8505 or email info@ mirafloreswinery.com for more information.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Espejos: Clean” through June 7. For tickets and more information call (916) 9955464 or visit capstage.org.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Cinderella” through June 21. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

The Gallery at 48 Natoma presents Sombremesa, ceramic works and paintings by Alejandra

and Luis Magaña of ALMa Design Studio through July 1 with an artist reception from 6-8 p.m. For more information call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us/ government/parks-recreation/ facilities/gallery-at-48-natoma.

Folsom History Museum presents Ride ‘Em Cowboy – the Folsom Rodeo Exhibition through Jan. 4, 2027. Learn more at folsomhistory.org.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Rebels with La Causa — Royal Chicano Air Force Art and Activism, 1970–1990 through June 28; and Pueblo Pottery –Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030; 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.