Mountain Democrat, Friday, May 8, 2026

Wagon train gets matching funds

Noel Stack Editor

The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors waded into budget waters last week, making some early decisions in preparation for the 2026-27 budget hearing ahead — at which an ongoing deficit is expected to be addressed.

Among those decisions was a unanimous agreement to allocate matching funds up to $15,000 from designated Community Funding to next year’s wagon train. Steve Downer, president of the Highway 50 Association and the wagon master, told supervisors before their vote the rolling history event’s costs have nearly doubled in the last year.

“We’ve managed to do some fundraising to o set some of that, but it still is not filling the gap,” Downer said.

The association has depleted most of its funds to finance the 2025 full wagon train, May 31 through June 6. Downer noted the event draws a lot of people to El Dorado County.

“I’m definitely an advocate for funding the wagon train,” District 3 Supervisors Brian Veerkamp

■ See BOARD, page A9

City ponders budget funds versus needs

Andrew Vonderschmitt

Features editor

The Placerville City Council met with City Manager Dave Warren and department heads April 30 to begin developing the city’s 2026-27 budget, where o cials disclosed an existing 8.04% General Fund deficit even before nearly $1.7 million in new requests for sta ng, equipment and maintenance were considered.

The workshop marked the start of the city’s annual budget review, during which departments submit requests for equipment, personnel, training and other operational needs. Many of the requests stem from deferred maintenance, sta ng shortages or mandated services.

“So these are just requests,” Warren said, explaining the purpose of the workshop was to allow council members to hear department needs “before we actually try to balance the budget.”

Interim Finance Director Natalie Tornincasa reported the current 2025-26 operating budget is set at $28.44 million and is supported through multiple funding sources, including the General Fund, water and sewer funds, Measures H and L funds, grants, gas tax revenue and parking funds.

The budget includes several categories, such as the capital improvement program, capital outlay budget and alternative services budget. Capital outlays focus on equipment purchases,

■ See CITY BUDGET, page A9

Farm Day celebrates local ag industry

Shelly Thorene

Sta writer

More than 930 third-graders from across the county eagerly engaged with animals and exhibits at Ag in the Classroom’s 23rd annual Farm Day at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds on May 5. Learning stations spread out across the fairgrounds provided a plethora of hands-on experiences for children to learn about El Dorado County’s agricultural resources.

Farm day is open to third grade students and teachers from public, private, parochial, charter and home school programs to learn about forests, farming, watersheds, natural resources, food, nutrition, animals and more. The event is traditionally held on the first Tuesday in May. Learning stations are presented by experts in their field, organizations and businesses. Topics include land stewardship, watersheds and irrigation, healthy forests, invasive and beneficial insects, milk and dairy, working animals and more.

Popular activities in the Henningsen Pavilion included brushing and giving treats to 16-yearold quarter horse Ed. His owner, Ponderosa FFA student Alice Bock, 17, commented, “He loves

ESSENTIALS

OBITUARIES

Perfecto “Pete”

Celestino Chavez Jr.

Feb. 25th, 1928 – Apr. 18th, 2026

Pete Chavez, 98, passed away peacefully at home. He is survived by his seven children: Celeste Chavez, Cristine Douthit, Karen Quade, Larry (Sandy) Chavez, Laura (Frank) Todd, Linda Chavez, and Paul (Anita) Chavez. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Marianne Chavez; daughter, Kathy Cope; son in law Ron Quade and grandson, Matthew Quade.

Born in Pueblo, Colorado, Pete was raised by his parents, Perfecto Sr. and Celia Chavez, alongside his five siblings. At just 17, he joined the U.S. Navy in 1945, serving during World War II. After his service, he settled in Fontana, California, where he and his father worked at the newly built Kaiser Steel Mill. It was through the local Catholic Youth Organization that Pete, at age 22, met the love of his life, Marianne Whitney.

The couple made their first home in Bloomington, California, where they raised their family alongside cows, pigs, rabbits, chickens, and horses. Here Pete also discovered a lifelong passion for woodworking, building cabinets and completing much of the home’s remodeling himself, skills that reflected both his craftsmanship and care for his family.

After 30 years at Kaiser Steel, Pete and Marianne moved with their three youngest children to Placerville, California, where they formally established Perfecto Label Co., a family business that continues to operate today.

A man of deep faith and service, Pete was actively involved in his church communities, most recently St. Patrick Parish. He dedicated many years to the Knights of Columbus, serving as Grand Knight and Color Corps Commander. His commitment to community extended beyond the church as he served as Head Umpire for Hangtown Little League, where his signature “Striiiiiike!” call became legendary.

Pete brought the same enthusiasm for his hobbies as he did for his work and service. He loved jeeping and square dancing, but his greatest passion was golf. In later years, he and Marianne enjoyed traveling the country with friends, visiting courses nationwide.

Above all, Pete will be remembered as a devoted family man and a steady, generous presence to all who knew him. He never hesitated to show up for others, offering support, humor, and quiet strength. Whether through his faith, his service, or simple time spent together, Pete had a special way of connecting with people and leaving a lasting impression. He loved and supported his eight children and many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren and took immense pride in being a husband of 64 years, as well as a father, brother, uncle, and grandfather.

True to his name, Pete was “Perfecto,” and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community.

A memorial service will be held on May 15 at St. Patrick Church.

The rosary will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by Mass at noon.

Joyce E. Dunham

Sep. 25, 1928 – Apr. 19, 2026

Joyce E. Dunham, of Shingle Springs, CA ascended to be with the Lord on April 19, 2026. She was 97 years old and lived a full and fruitful life, always commenting that she loved every stage. Joyce is survived by her children Judy Ziesmer of Shingle Springs, Gary (Linda) Dunham of Folsom, Scott (Niurka) Dunham of Cary, NC, eight grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and one great-greatgrandchild. She was predeceased by her husband of over 70 years, Neil Dunham.

Joyce was born on September 25, 1928 in San Diego, CA to Ken and Florence Fawcett. She met her soul-mate Neil Dunham on July 4th, 1946 in San Diego. They were married on December 28th, 1946. After their marriage they lived in San Diego until moving to Sacramento in 1960. A temporary move to San Diego in 1975 was followed by their return to Sacramento in 1977. After Neil’s retirement in 1982 they moved to their house in Shingle Springs where she lived until passing.

Joyce and Neil enjoyed many years of exploring the country by trailer, treating the family to annual Silver Lake vacations, square dancing, and continuing to grow in their Christian faith. They were fortunate to travel and had many treasured memories of trips to Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe.

Joyce was a dedicated and devoted homemaker and mother. She enjoyed entertaining, tennis, gardening, reading and baking. Her greatest joy was time spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She delighted in hearing her children’s stories of their own journeys.

Joyce was admired for her positive and caring attitude, her thoughtfulness of others, and her love of family and friends. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Pastor Jacob Ricketts will lead a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. on May 13th, 2026 at Park Community Church in Shingle Springs. Following the ceremony, friends and family are invited to enjoy a light lunch and share memories in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers the family requests considering a donation to Park Community Church or to a charitable foundation of the donor’s choice.

Madeleine Carol (Putnam) Melo

Apr. 13, 1945 – Apr. 17, 2026

Madeleine Melo passed away on April 17, 2026, at her home in Star, Idaho.

She was born April 13, 1945, in Visalia, California, to Dorothy and Lloyd Putnam. At age eleven, she moved to Placerville, California, where she graduated from El Dorado High School. She pursued a degree in nursing, attending Sierra Junior College and Chico State.

Madeleine was a pioneer in nurse midwifery, and one of the first certified nurse midwives in California (#23). Over her career, she delivered more than 2,000 babies, supporting families through life’s most meaningful moments.

In 1979, Madeleine settled in Fort Bragg, California. She married Jere Melo in 1987, and together they were active in local organizations and civic life. They shared a love of travel, including meaningful trips to Japan through the Fort Bragg–Otsuchi Cultural Exchange. Family was at the center of their life, and they took great joy in bringing people together and being present for life’s milestones.

Madeleine was preceded in death by her husband, Jere Melo; her parents; her brother, David Putnam; and her great-nephew, Matthew Lancaster.

She is survived by her sisters, Barbara Harris of Caldwell, Idaho, and Ada Kornmeyer of Port Ludlow, Washington; as well as many nieces, nephews, and their extended family.

She will be remembered for her strength, compassion, and the way she showed up— consistently and wholeheartedly—for the people she loved.

Deceased’s Funeral Arrangements: Services will be held in both Star, Idaho, and Mount Shasta, California. For additional details, visit https:// everloved.com/life-of/madeleine-melo/

Miklos (Nick) Nemeth

Jan. 19, 1937 – Apr. 10, 2026

Miklos (Nick) Nemeth, 89, formerly of Placerville, California passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on April 10, 2026.

Miklos was born in Kiliman, Hungary to Joseph and Maria Nemeth. He escaped communism in 1956 and became a Christian and U.S. citizen after serving his beloved America as an Air Force service member. Over the course of his life he proudly worked in the construction industry, predominantly for Lund Construction.

Miklos was a beloved resident of the Placerville community for many years, where he made many dear friends and cherished memories. His citizen volunteering with the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Department was a favorite passion, and he found tremendous joy in varied hobbies; most notable were rock hunting, cutting stones, participating in rock & gems shows, making jewelry, growing orchids, and cooking for friends and family. His happiest moments were the interactions with wildlife near his home, sipping cognac at his kitchen table telling tall tales, and teaching others about rocks.

A proud father, Miklos is survived by his daughters Lauren Gonzalez, Lisa Reilly, Nola Nemeth-Odens, Erica Nemeth, Karen Annand, Sheila Latapie, Kelly Green Nemeth, Carla King; 15 Grandchildren; and 14 great-Grandchildren. “Grandpa Chickens” will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his many stories.

As a devout patriot of the country Miklos appreciated so much, it would be his honor if a celebration of his life came in the form of a charitable donation to Warrior Nation Freedom Station in his name.

Oct. 11, 1946 – Jan. 17, 2026

After a brave fight, Sue passed away with her beloved husband, Mike, by her side. She’s survived by her husband Michael and a daughter Julie (Mark) and sister Elizabeth of Oregon.

Sue was born in San Francisco to wonderful parents Harry and Genevieve.

She lost a younger brother, David.

Sue worked in banking until a traumatic event led her to work at Harrell Ford. She retired from the El Dorado County Tax Collectors office.

Her sister says her life blossomed in 1999 when she met Mike. They went on many adventures and enjoyed their life in Pleasant Valley with their many friends. Whether she was entertaining, gardening, taking advantages of local wineries or watching butterflies, she enjoyed her life and was always on the lookout for fun. Even after moving to Ponte Palmero their adventures continued. Still, one of her greatest joys was spending time with her granddaughters Cat Riccobuono and Heather Cademartori. She was great grandmother to Kylie, Patrick, Daniel and Norah, but to them she was Nanny. And they still have many, many blankets and clothing items that she had homemade for them that they will treasure.

She donated her time and made items for The Linus Project, an organization that supplies blankets to the terminally ill or traumatized.

There will be a 5pm Mass Intention said on 5/17/26 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in El Dorado Hills. We would like everyone to join us on 5/18 11-3pm at Ponte Peaks Clubhouse, Cameron Park. Pop in! The gate code is #1492

We will be sharing stories and memories. Appetizers and cake will be served. Hope to see you there. Zoom information to follow.

Karen (Graves)

Blasingame

Aug. 25, 1955 – Mar. 22, 2026

Karen Blasingame, 70, a lifelong Placerville resident, passed away on March 22, 2026. Her life was defined by a fierce devotion to her family and friends, and a kindness that knew no bounds.

Born on August 25, 1955, at the Placerville Sanitorium to Floyd and Marie Graves, Karen’s story began in the close-knit community of Omo Ranch. She attended the historic two-room schoolhouse at Indian Diggins, where she forged the foundational friendships that would last a lifetime. She graduated from El Dorado High school in 1973.

Karen was the heartbeat of her family and she was fiercely devoted to them as well as her friends, always the first to offer help to anyone in need. The number of lives touched by her giving spirit is immeasurable; she lived fully, leading always with love, kindness, and quiet strength.

The impact of her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her legacy lives on in the family she adored. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Marie Graves; her sister, Betty Murray; and her brother, Floyd Graves.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 42 years, Harold Blasingame; her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom were the pride and joy of her life.

Celebration of Life

Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM American Legion Hall Post #119 4561 Greenstone Rd., Placerville, CA 95667

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 office. 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 inmemoryofjohncottier@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 inmemoryofjohncottier@gmail.com. Flowers are welcomed and may be delivered to John’s home (please email inmemoryofjohncottier@ 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.

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 will be 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.

Bringing together local partners and neighbors to reduce wildfire risk by creating defensible space for a local resident in need, the El Dorado County and Logtown Fire Safe Councils partnered with Cal Fire, the El Dorado County Office of Wildfire Preparedness and Resilience, Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Tribal Fire Department and the California Conservation Corp, to host the region’s first Wildfire Community Preparedness Day on Saturday, May 2. This “neighbors helping neighbors” effort assisted an 86-year-old El Dorado resident by creating defensible space around the property to reduce wildfire risk.

Volunteers focused primarily on Zone 0 (0-5 feet from the home) and Zone 1 (5-30 feet from the home), which included clearing excess vegetation, limbing trees, and removing dead branches and debris from the property.

Wildfire Community Preparedness Day highlights the community-wide effort that is required to help reduce wildfire risk. Being prepared not only means making sure your property has good defensible space and home hardening, but

that your neighbors do as well.

“Most people think preparing for wildfire means doing it on their own, but we forget that our neighbors are a great resource and are usually willing to

OPINION

Taxpayer protection initiative qualifies for the ballot

ILetters to the Editor California

n a major victory for California taxpayers, the Local Taxpayer Protection Act to Save Proposition 13 has qualified for the November 2026 ballot. Last month, the California Secretary of State reported that proponents, led by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, had turned in more than enough valid signatures to county registrars, ensuring that voters will be given an opportunity to restore the original intent of Proposition 13.

This important new taxpayer initiative would not have been necessary were it not for the unrelenting attacks on Proposition 13 by anti-taxpayer forces that began in 1978, immediately after its passage. These include decisions by a hostile California judiciary which, especially in the last two decades, have sided with the government and its special interest benefactors by creating loopholes that significantly weakened taxpayer protections that had stood for over 40 years.

Perhaps the worst of these unjustified loopholes occurred in 2017 with the California Supreme Court’s ruling in California Cannabis Coalition v. City of Upland. That ruling, although somewhat oblique, gave the green light to local governments to impose local special taxes without the two-thirds vote required by the plain language of Prop. 13, if the taxes were put on the ballot by signatures on petitions instead of an action by the government.

Even though the express language of Prop. 13 prohibits any “transaction tax or sales tax on the sale of real property,” courts have created — out of whole cloth — a convoluted series of decisions to allow them to be imposed.

In response, local governments exploited the ruling to impose all kinds of unconstitutional taxes — backed by tax-and-spend special interests — costing taxpayers billions of dollars that they would not have had to pay if the courts had followed the letter and the spirit of the law.

The Local Taxpayer Protection Act to Save Proposition 13 Act of 2026 will reverse the courtcreated loophole in the two-thirds vote requirement and revive this important taxpayer protection. But there’s more.

The Not So Weekly Daley

My

IGaines is the best choice

EDITOR:

Iam a local business owner with ties throughout the community and am also a research scientist with expertise in global health issues. I rarely get involved with county, state or national politics but I have met a candidate who aligns with my views on fiscal responsibility, community values and moral philosophy.

I am supporting Ted Gaines for supervisor of the 4th District. Ted prioritizes and has a track record for public safety. He has the endorsement of El Dorado County sheri s past and present as well as the current district attorney.

Ted is also deeply experienced in county, state and local government and will hit the ground running on day one. He is a proven budget watchdog and his conservative principles will ensure that we live within our means.

Ted has also owned and operated his own business for decades and knows what it takes for companies to operate successfully. That is a great

combination that no other candidate can match. I appreciate those who wish to contribute their time and talents to local public service and I applaud the four candidates who are running for the 4th District on the Board of Supervisors. They all appear to be good people; however, I disagree with those who discount a candidate with prior experience in public o ce as a “career politician.” It is so reckless to pull the epithet without examining or considering the individual of their experience.

I am trained in evidence-base evaluation. I value a candidate who has the education, the political science and lawmaking savvy, the business acumen to balance a ledger and meet a payroll, and possess the personal moral values of honesty and integrity to champion my family’s safety and well being. For these reasons, I have concluded that the best choice for District 4 is Ted Gaines.

RICK BLODGETT Shingle Springs

question is: what should winning look like?

like to think of myself as a reasonable, concerned and law-abiding citizen. I try to obey the speed limit no matter where I drive, and I’ve been pretty darn successful. I did get a speeding ticket on Missouri Flat Road at about six in the morning on my way to work in 1974. It was my first year teaching English at Davis High School and I had to be in a little early for some reason that day. There were a couple of fix-it tickets over the years and one for not having the current registration tag on. It was in the glove compartment. OK, I got busted for fishing without a license in the Sacramento River, 1969 or ’70. Went to court, pleaded guilty, paid the $25 fine, learned my lesson and never did that again. Been clean ever since,

I’m quite sure. And as a still reasonable, concerned and law-abiding citizen, I am definitely concerned with some of our country’s newer “laws.” And, as an opinionated, opinionheavy writer, I’m certain that I share that concern with others of my ilk.

A bit of Googling explains clearly that threatening the life of a person or persons is against the law. It’s admittedly rather vague, because there are several levels of seriousness within the general category of “threatening the life of …” Some are felonies and some are misdemeanors. It all depends on the nature and circumstances of the threat. Is or was it just a joke? If not, it may be labeled a “criminal or terrorist” threat. Then a bunch of

OK, I got busted for shing without a license in the Sacramento River, 1969 or ’70. Went to court, pleaded guilty, paid the $25 ne, learned my lesson and never did that again.

factors may apply. Does the threatener actually have the capacity, the access and the means to carry out the threat?

That is, if he (it’s usually a he) is quite elderly and disabled, maybe confined to a nursing home, and thus without the capacity, means or access, the threat would be very unrealistic. There could be a million variations of such scenarios.

“True threat,” according to the information I found, is a term that may be used to identify a threat with an actual, viable potential for extreme harm and is therefore a “criminal or terrorist” threat.

One of the new “laws” could punish me and other scribblers or vocal critics for saying, “We, the USA, are not winning the Iran war.” Just heard

about that possible new law the other day. Accordingly, I won’t say that or anything else meaning roughly the same thing. It could be considered “treasonous” under the new “law,” and subject to rather severe penalties. It would be helpful to know if any of our friends from the neighborhood — the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, et al — are “winning the Iran war.” Going out on a limb if not onto thin ice, I will say those guys are “not winning the Iran war.” And I sincerely hope that doesn’t break any of their “new” or even old laws. Fairly early in the proceedings, some wags and pundits suggested the theory that “Iran wins the war even if

Making courageous choices

EDITOR:

The failed armed assault at the Washington Correspondents Dinner on April 25 has once again tainted public discourse in America with political violence. Instead of blame-casting or escalating the rhetoric against the president’s critics, the White House press secretary should address the president’s longstanding threats and encouragement of violence against his perceived enemies.

Last month, the president compared the Democratic Party to Iran, calling it America’s greatest enemy. Last year, he called for imprisoning and executing Democratic lawmakers who urged military service members to defend the Constitution and reject illegal orders.

To avoid being labeled a fascist and threat to democracy, the president should stop gerrymandering the vote in Florida, Missouri and Texas, stop disenfranchising millions of women and low-income voters by mandating passports and birth certificates to register, stop depriving law-abiding neighbors of due process through his radical mass deportation agenda and deliberate cruelty, and stop prosecuting a war of choice with Iran

Continued from A4

it loses.”

The president and other administration leaders described the Feb. 28 opening of hostilities as a “short-term excursion” and a brief, decisive undertaking which, in fact, turned into “total victory” by the end of “day one.”

Coupal

Continued from A4

In addition to restoring the twothirds vote for local special taxes, the Act will also restore the limitation on equity-stealing real estate transfer taxes. For decades, even before Prop. 13, taxes on the sale or transfer of real property were limited to $1.10 per $1,000 of property value. However, following Prop. 13’s passage, many cities began imposing real estate transfer taxes in excess of $45 per $1,000 of value. Even worse, because of the Upland decision, local governments operating behind the front of “citizen groups” can propose “special taxes” by initiative, evading the requirement of a two-thirds vote of the electorate to pass. And while the courts originally said transfer tax revenue must go into a municipality’s general fund, special taxes under Upland can be exclusively directed to whatever the local government, or special interest group, wants. The worst abuse of the Upland ruling occurred in Los Angeles where, because of Measure ULA, highvalue properties are now subject to a punishingly excessive transfer tax.

Even though the express language of Prop. 13 prohibits any “transaction tax or sales tax on the sale of real property,” courts have created — out of whole cloth — a convoluted series of decisions to allow them to be imposed.

Crime log Continued from A3

to distract from his unpopularity at home.

The president’s critics, most notably the peaceful and joyous No Kings protests, reject violence, with over 3,600 protesters here in El Dorado County and over 8 million nationwide. Indivisible El Dorado, as the organizer of local No Kings protests shares this commitment to non-violence.

Since its founding, Indivisible believes organized people can defeat organized hate. Our power lies in our numbers and our presence. We’ve always been committed to non-violence in protests, organizing, and advocacy. We reject political violence and intimidation, no matter the source or target. Non-violence doesn’t mean backing down; it means standing firm in our values, channeling anger and hope into action and refusing to become our enemies. We’re fighting against a movement that feeds on fear and chaos. Our answer is courage, solidarity and the belief that a better democracy is worth fighting for. Join us in rejecting fear and hate, embracing courage and love and fighting back for democracy. We are indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

JOEL ELLINWOOD Cameron Park

Even at the risk of going out on another limb, I believe it’s accurate as well as not treasonous to say “Yes, we were winning the Iran war at the end of day one …” Although, that was two months and a couple of weeks ago.

Chris Daley is a biweekly columnist for the Mountain Democrat.

The Local Taxpayer Protection Act to Save Proposition 13 prohibits the transfer tax loophole from being used in the future and “sunsets” both special and general transfer taxes that exceed the existing state limit of 0.11%, ending abusive tax measures such as Measure ULA in two years.

While California desperately needs comprehensive tax relief, the qualification of the Local Taxpayer Protection Act to Save Proposition 13 for the November ballot is an important first step in reclaiming California for the state’s beleaguered taxpayers. It is the citizens who are paying way too much in taxes for poorly delivered public services by a corrupt and indolent political machine.

Moreover, while the qualification was a necessary step in achieving relief for taxpayers, it is not su cient. Taxpayers must now run an aggressive campaign between now and election day to secure the victory we need. It is bound to be a bruising battle against entrenched special interests.

But given what is at stake, taxpayers are clearly up to the task.

Those who want to help in this battle are encouraged to visit SaveProp13.com.

Jon Coupal is the president of Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

State Highway 49 in Placerville.

5:50 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Shoo Fly Road in Placerville.

6:33 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Dusty Gold Lane in Placerville.

7:05 p.m. Petty theft was

9:04 p.m.

was reported at an apartment complex on Market Court in Shingle Springs.

10:12 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

11:12 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Ryland Drive in El Dorado Hills.

March 22

9:10 a.m. Battery was reported at the county jail on Forni Road in Placerville.

12:13 p.m. Battery was reported in Diamond Springs.

12:42 p.m. Burglary to a vehicle was reported at a church on Tierra De Dios Drive in El Dorado Hills.

3:50 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a person suspected of vandalism, possessing unlawful paraphernalia, obstructing a peace o cer and in icting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant on Pleasant Valley Road in Diamond Springs. They were listed in custody in lieu of $101,500 bail.

5:48 p.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public at a car wash on Plaza Drive in Placerville.

6:46 p.m. Petty theft was reported on Bucks Bar Road in Placerville.

7:54 p.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public at a restaurant on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

8:21 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Spanish Dry Diggins Road in Greenwood. 11:02 p.m. Battery was reported at the county jail on Forni Road in Placerville. 11:30 p.m. Battery was reported on Brauer Road in Georgetown.

March 23

10:38 a.m.

Championship season fires back up at Placerville Speedway

Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

The Berco Building Materials championship campaign gets back under way at Placerville Speedway this Saturday when the quarter mile plays host to Mother’s Day Madness presented by RJM Builders.

A four-division program roars into the El Dorado County Fairgrounds on Mother’s Day Weekend with the Thompson’s Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Cars, the Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models, Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks and Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks.

All moms attending the show will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a Mother’s Day spa gift basket as they come through the gate. Fans also have a chance to take photos with a couple of mini donkeys from Braying Oaks during the night.

Mother’s Day Madness is the final event before Placerville Speedway goes dark for two weeks. Following

that, the Sprint Car Challenge Tour sanctioned Davy Thomas Memorial on May 30 launches a busy summer of racing.

“We can’t think of a better way to celebrate mom than to bring her out to the races this Saturday at Placerville Speedway,” said RMI President Scott Russell. “It’s always a great show when you have all four of our points paying divisions on hand. It’s also our final race before a twoweek break, so hopefully everyone will come out and pack the grandstands.”

Auburn’s Andy Forsberg, Yuba City’s Rod Oliver, Oakley’s Nick Baldwin and Diamond Springs’ Kevin Jinkerson sit atop the driver standings in their respective divisions. This weekend is the first Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Car point race in nearly a month.

This Saturday we also welcome new track partner RJM Builders for n See MADNESS, page A8

Sacramento Meet of Champions, placed well for the Trojans during the May 2 SFL Varsity Championships and have qualified for the Division 1 Track and Field Trials.

Trojans’ track stars headed to D1 Trials

Special to the Mountain Democrat Oak Ridge High School track and field athletes competed at a very high-level at the Sierra Foothill League Varsity Championships on May 2, with head coach Rob Fairley noting many athletes obtained personal records, and 36 athletes (22 boys and 14 girls) qualified for the Division 1 Trials on May 9 at Folsom High School

“The varsity boys placed 2nd in league, and the varsity girls placed 4th in league,” Fairley shared. “The Sierra Foothill League is a very competitive league in track and field.

Top 10 finishers in each event qualified for the D1 and some athletes also qualified by obtaining an at-large mark.

ORHS qualifiers

Chase Fontana — 1st, 100 10.95; 1st, 200, 22.18; 1st, 4x100, 42.42

Demarco Patterson — 3rd, 100 11.07; 2nd, 200, 22.18; 1st, 4x100 42.42, 2nd, 4x400, 3:23.58

Suhnny Bernardi — 9th, 100, 11.28; 7th, 200, 22.95; 1st, 4x100, 42.42; 2nd, 4x400, 3:23.58

Dylan Lange — 6th, 400, 51.06; 2nd, 4x400, 3:23.58

Parker Lange — 8th, 400, 51.22; 2nd, 4x400, 3:23.58

Ben Gutierrez — 6th, 800, 1:57.08; 2nd, 4x800, n See TROJANS, page A7

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

COMICS

baseball playoff game. The runner was safe, but Fajardo and the Bruins won by a 5-2 score.

Pondo, Oak Ridge baseball teams win playoff openers

Mike Bush Mountain Democrat correspondent

After winning two of its final three Capital Valley Conference games to end the regular season, the Ponderosa High School baseball team was looking to keep the momentum going entering its CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Playoffs – Division III on Wednesday. The Bruins did exactly that against the Pacheco High School’s squad. Ponderosa, which entered the playoffs as the No. 6 seed, rallied in the bottom of the sixth inning to record a 5-2 win over No. 11 Pacheco, out of Los Banos in Merced County, on the Bruins’ field in Shingle Springs. The win advances the Bruins into the quarterfinals. Ponderosa (14-13) hits the road to San Joaquin County to face No. 3 seed Manteca (21-8), which beat No. 14 Antelope 7-0 also on Wednesday. Manteca took second place in the Valley Oak League behind champion Central Catholic of Modesto.

Ponderosa erased a 2-1 Pacheco lead in the bottom of the sixth with four runs. Tyler Purdom smacked a double up the middle of the field to drive in two RBIs that ignited the Bruins.

The Panthers scratched out their second run at the top of the sixth.

Prior to the run fest in the sixth, the game was knotted at 1-1.

Ponderosa produced seven hits in the postseason opener. Luke Stiveson went two for three for the Bruins.

Six Bruin batters had a hit each — Ruben George, Purdom, Gavin Daby, Zealand Jenkins, Josiah Fajadro and Cohen Lapierre.

On the mound, Garrett Snyder went 5.1 innings for Ponderosa. He struck out 10 Pacheco batters, gave up seven hits and walked one.

The Bruins ended the regular season by posting a 2-0 win over Inderkum of Sacramento on April 27, which was part of a three-game series. The Bruins also recorded a 12-0 victory on April 25. The Tigers won the series opener by an 8-5 score on April 24.

PHS was one of the four El Dorado County high school baseball teams that advanced to the playoffs. Here’s the breakdown of the other three.

Trojans

8:35.53

Continued from A6

Wesley Ewing — 8th, 1600, 4:21.58; 4x800, 2nd, 8:35.53

Dax Whann — 13th, 1600, 4:24.07 (at-large qualifier)

Thomas Capelli — 8th, 3200, 9:30.29

Roman Zamora — 9th, 3200, 9:31.38

Austin Mackovic — 14th, 3200, 9:40.04 (at-large qualifier)

Tyce Upchurch — 8th, 110 hurdles, 17.21; 3rd, 300 hurdles, 41.19

Rocco Danielson — 9th, 300 hurdles, 44.20

Braylon Roseveare — 4th, shot put, 47 feet 1 inch; 5th, discus, 141 feet 1 inch

Dylan Esten — 9th, shot put, 42 feet 6 inches; 8th, discus, 137 feet 2 inches

Alex Castro — 4th, discus, 150 feet

1 inch

Ben Hughes — 5th, high jump, 5 feet 10 inches

Jack Clarke — 9th, high jump, 5 feet

6 inches

Santino Rossi — 6th, pole vault, 10 feet 8 inches

Caden Clark – 7th, triple jump, 39 feet 0 inches

Bailey Van Leemput — 2nd, 4x800, 8:35.53

Luca Miller — 2nd, 4x800, 8:35.53

Kaitlin Strawn — 5th, 100, 13.09; 7th, 200, 27.19; 7th, 4x100, 51.84

Oak Ridge 4, Pleasant Grove 3

In a D-I playoff game in El Dorado Hills, also on Wednesday, No. 7 Oak Ridge (13-15), which took sixth place in the Sierra Foothill League, held off Pleasant Grove to advance to the quarterfinals.

The game was tied 3-3, entering the bottom of the seventh inning. Then the Trojans plated the game-winning run.

Dylan Busalacchi and Hudson Vetter each had two hits in the playoff game for the Trojans. Noah Teply and Colton Keefer each had one hit.

Pleasant Grove finished with eight hits.

Noah Nowaski went 5.1 innings on the bump for the Trojans. Mason Newhouse tossed the final 1.2 innings.

Oak Ridge also hits the road for its quarterfinal game, playing at No. 2 McClatchy of Sacramento on Friday at 4 p.m. McClatchy edged No. 14 Inderkum of Sacramento by a 4-1 score.

Wheatland 2, El Dorado 1

In a D-V playoff opener on Wednesday, No. 12 El Dorado (13-16), which took fourth place in the Sierra Valley Conference this season, and No. 5 Wheatland were also tied, at 1-1, entering the bottom of the 10th inning. The host Pirates scored the winning run at that time for the win.

The visiting Cougars had four players with a hit each in the playoff contest — Wesley Morrasy, Joe Parsons, Daniel Parsons and Gavin Ashton.

Sutter 9, Union Mine 2

No. 14 Union Mine made the lengthy trip to Sutter County, where No. 3 Sutter jumped out to a 6-0 lead after two innings and never looked back.

The Diamondbacks scored their only runs in the top of the seventh inning.

Brycen Cramer had two of the D-backs’ three hits. Leadoff hitter Parker Taylor had the other.

Union Mine (10-15) took sixth place in the SVC.

Chloe Zumstein — 3rd, 400, 1:00.03; 3rd, 4x400, 4:08.39

Maya Day — 5th, 800, 2:16.64; 3rd, 1600, 5:00.63

Sutton Paulsen — 8th, 2:18.99; 3rd, 4x400, 4:08.99

Adriana Ingargiola — 9th, 1600, 5:04.50; 7th, 3200, 10:58.46

Giuliana Martino — 15th, 1600, 5:12.74 (at-large qualifier), 5th, 3200, 10:57.14

Kennedy Dawson — 3rd, 300 hurdles 47.05; 3rd, 4x400, 4:08.39; 7th, 4x100, 51.84

London Sanders — 7th, 300 hurdles, 48.98; 3rd, 4x400, 4:08.39; 7th, 4x100, 51.84

Trinity Johnston — 7th, pole vault, 7 feet 2 inches; 7th, 4x100, 51.84

Amalea Roppo — 3rd, shot put, 31 feet 0 inches; 1st discus, 104 feet 0 inches

Cassandra Kipf — 7th, shot put 27 feet 2 inches; 10th discus, 84 feet 4 inches

Scottlyn Osborne — 8th, high jump, 4 feet 2 inches; 8th, long jump, 14 fet 8.75 inches; 4th, triple jump, 34 feet 2 inches

Allie Anastacio — 1st, long jump, 16 feet 7.75 inches; 1st, triple jump, 35 feet 10.25 inches

Lauren Tiedeman — 11th, 800, 2:21.27 (qualified with one athlete scratching the 800).

ARIES (March 21-April 19). A physical practice demands your focus. Dance, lifting, yoga, boxing — all help you to learn your body as an instrument. Mastery of movement translates into a felt sense of capability that carries into everything else.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You enjoy appearances as part of the experience. Style, presentation, the vibe of things — the surface isn’t trivial. It’s part of how you read and enjoy the world. Others will appreciate your effort to make it beautiful.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Today gives you a theme to act out deliberately. Maybe you’re decisive, curious or generous — and it’s very natural for you to be any one of these things, but playing with an identity deliberately highlights the qualities to powerful, magical effect.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’ll teach something you know and find that you’re learning as you share with someone else. Explaining clarifies your own understanding and reveals the depth of your knowledge. Teaching turns competence into something visible and shared.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’ll get excellent reviews and word of mouth referrals. Your secret? What you do is worth talking about. You make a difference in people’s lives, and that’s something they will always want to share, though they may still need to be prompted.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Just because you think something doesn’t mean it came from you. We are constantly being influenced by our environment and other people, even when we don’t notice it. Especially when we don’t notice it. Test your thoughts. Take them to inquiry.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Use deadlines as anchors. Even flexible tasks benefit from a target. Dates create movement and help you decide what matters first. Without them, items drift, compete for attention and linger longer than they need to in your mental space.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Today is run by a list. Maybe it’s in your head, but if it’s written in a note, even better. Everything you cross off gives you a realistic idea about how long things take and what you can comfortably handle.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You’ll look back on this day and notice how much you carried, and created anyway. You’re so alive, curious and perceptive. You’re open. Even to the obstacles. And when life doesn’t reciprocate fairly, you still choose not to harden.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Not everyone is on the same page. Most aren’t even in the same book. Avoid making assumptions about people today. Common ground may be there, but you’ll have to get to know them a bit to find it. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You might be surprised by the emotions that come up, especially in situations that look ordinary and understandable. It’s

Farm Day Continued from A1

kids.” She and Ponderosa FFA member Peyton Oxford, 17, gave a demonstration on cleaning his hooves.

Phil and Nikki Johnson of Grizzly Mountain Minis let eager students get in the pen with Finnegan, a 1-year-old miniature White Highland Chondro future sire who patiently allowed plentiful pets.

Whipper Snapper Cattle Company of Shingle Springs provided an enormous Texas Longhorn skull and hides for children to examine and nearby in a pen stood a real live 3-year-old Texas Longhorn named Dillon. Ponderosa FFA members Zack St. Pierre and Allison Polk, both 17, hosted the exhibit, which also included a 7-week-old Hungarian Mangalitsa piglet, who they said was the runt of the litter. Students could reach down and pet the curly-haired creature who was very comfortable resting on a tiny dog bed with his toy stuffed animal nearby.

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The exhibit with the best aroma was No. 26, the Pizza Garden sponsored by the UC Master Food Preserver Program. Volunteers plucked fresh rosemary, basil and oregano from buckets and instructed children to tie off bunches and place them in paper bags with their names on them for drying at home. Parents, of course, would later be responsible for completing the assignment by using the herbs in spaghetti or pizza sauce.

“UC Master Gardeners and Master Food Preservers are part of the cooperative extension and our goal is to bridge the gap between all of the great academic information that is being researched and the public,” explained UC Master Gardener and Food Preserver programs coordinator Haley O’Mara. “It can take a long time for new information to reach the average person. On the food preserver side we hold free classes and on the Master Gardener side same thing, and we have the Sherwood Demonstration Garden. We’re participating here today because anytime we can get kids excited about food and being outdoors in the garden, we want to be a part of that.”

The lights were out in the Marshall Building to create a calming atmosphere and volunteers from Sierra Wildlife Rescue urged students to keep quiet as they brought out two owls, one at a time, to tell their stories. Mr. Whisper, a 6-year-old California spotted owl was tethered to volunteer Anita Thomas’ gloved hand and occasionally tested his confinement by leaping up and flapping his wings. Mr. Whisper was attacked by a murder of crows in Georgetown, resulting in the loss of vision in one eye and the other eye was also injured in the attack.

Practices Continued from A3

lend a hand. When one El Dorado or Logtown resident creates defensible space around their home, the whole neighborhood benefits because the community is one step closer to being a wildfire prepared community,” said Ken Pimlott, chair, El Dorado Fire Safe Council.

The collective effort was made possible by donations from local partners and the support from El Dorado Fire Safe Council, Office of Wildfire Preparedness and Resilience, Logtown Fire Safe Council, Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians Tribal Fire Department, the California Conservation Corp, Wilkinson Portables Inc., SiteOne Landscape Supply, Sierra Landscaping Materials Inc., and Hart’s Hauling and Dump Service. The four-hour event cleared away six trailer loads (60 yards) of shrubs, branches and trees.

“Defensible space, along with home hardening, is one of the most effective tools to protect your property from wildfire,” said Cal Fire State

Grandstand

Admission

apart from the reserved seats allocated to season ticket holders that are marked.

Volunteer Kristi Schroeder showed students Zuri, a tiny Western screech owl who was rescued in 2018 after a head injury most likely caused by a collision with a vehicle.

The Forestry Plaza, located in front of the Forni Building, featured a loaded logging truck from Sierra Pacific Industries and a full set of bleachers where students and adults could sit and safely watch a log milling demonstration by retired logger Hardie Tatum of Pollock Pines. Tatum demonstrated how to mill a Ponderosa Pine tree that fell on Newton Road in a recent storm. His grandchildren — Alivia Tatum, 16, and Jace, 11 — assisted him in the operation and showed examples of the milled boards to students who reached out to touch the sweet smelling boards.

In addition to the intense learning at stations scattered around the fairgrounds, there were other fun activities where kids could get their wiggles out on the Apple Hill Growers’ Lawn. These included apple relay races, a hobby horse obstacle course, dragon’s tail tag and an irrigation pipe relay race. At the end of a very full day of hands-on activities and and outdoor fun, students carried with them new knowledge and lasting memories.

Farm Day is made possible by the efforts of Ag in the Classroom volunteer presenters and sponsorships from community businesses and organizations. Presenters included conservancy groups, farms, ranches, logging industry professionals, students from FFA and more.

For more information about Ag in the Classroom and its other events and programs visit agintheclass-edc.org.

Fire Marshal Chief Daniel Berlant. “It provides firefighters the room they need to safely do their job — and gives a home a fighting chance. Cal Fire appreciates the leadership of the Fire Safe Councils and the strong community commitment demonstrated through these types of events and the programs they offer.”

The program partners encourage Californians and communities to add defensible space around their homes and neighborhoods by:

• Removing and pruning branches hanging over the roof or chimney to keep them 10 feet away.

• Removing all dead or dying plant materials within 30 feet of all structures or to the property line.

• Limiting plants within 5 feet of the house to low growing, non-woody, properly watered and maintained plants.

• Never placing plants under windows or on windowsills.

place 4-6 p.m. Magician/Juggler Cody Ebert will also be on hand to entertain fans under the shade structure.

Cars hit the track at 5:15 p.m. with hot laps, ADCO Driveline Qualifying and racing to follow.

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

Upcoming events

Saturday, May 30: Davy’s Race – Davy Thomas Memoria featuring Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour and Nor-Cal Dwarf Cars

Saturday, June 6: John Padjen Kids Bike Night presented by Pizza Factory featuring Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Pure Stocks, Mini Trucks and BCRA Lightning Sprints Madness Continued from A6

while alternative service levels address personnel needs, including unfreezing vacancies, creating new positions and modifying existing roles. The budget also includes funding for conferences, training and travel.

Tornincasa said departments dependent on the General Fund are being “hit really hard” compared to those supported through enterprise funds such as water and sewer services.

Department requests presented during the workshop included $580,738 for capital outlays, $928,260 for alternative service levels and $131,754 for training and travel.

Several department heads outlined the impact of deferred maintenance and aging infrastructure.

Police Chief Joe Wren said the police department’s firing range is approaching significant safety concerns and requires repairs to backstops and shooting lanes. Wren also requested funding for a drug incinerator, which would eliminate what he described as an “all day process” of transporting narcotics to Redding for destruction, along with a Faraday locker designed to prevent remote access to electronic evidence.

Public Works Director Nick Stone requested equipment including a crack sealer to extend the life of city roads and a hydrant valve exerciser, sometimes referred to as a “hydrant buddy,” used to maintain fire hydrants and street valves.

Board Continued from A1 confirmed during the board’s discussion.

“I, too, would like to fund the wagon train because of its historical and … economic (benefits),” District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin added, noting those traveling to the county for the event are contributing to Transient Occupancy Tax revenue.

District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine advocated for the matching revenue option. “They would go out and fundraise as well,” Laine said. “That would allow them a mechanism for leveraging our funds and with the idea that in the following fiscal year, maybe we would consider a reduction in that amount but still matching funds to just help them really kind of get some momentum and get on their feet.”

Fire recovery

Supervisors also supported allocating $8.24 million in Mosquito Fire Settlement funding with $400,000 for a shared fire services agreement between Mosquito, Georgetown and Garden Valley

Councilmember Michael Yarbrough said relying on temporary fixes ultimately costs the city more.

“Patchworking” problems can cost two to three times more than addressing issues properly the first time, Yarbrough said.

Staffing shortages also emerged as a major concern. Approximately $738,000 of the requested alternative service level increases would come from the General Fund.

Development Services Director Carole Kendrick requested funding for an assistant planner position to help reduce delays in planning responses and plan checks following the freezing of an associate planner position.

As officials discussed ways to address staffing shortages and budget limitations, council members proposed operational changes to reduce employee workload.

Councilmember John Clerici suggested closing public-facing city offices on Fridays to allow staff time to complete administrative work.

Councilmember Jackie Neau supported the proposal, noting the city operates with nearly 20 fewer employees than it did in the early 2000s.

“We can’t work our staff to the bone, right?” Neau said, adding that if the city cannot afford additional personnel, reduced public office hours may become necessary to complete mandated work.

Community Services Director Denis Nishihara said

fire district and $7.84 million for projects that benefit the Mosquito Fire Footprint Area, including road maintenance. The county Department of Transportation director will return to the board with a project list.

Divide residents supported the distribution of funds.

“Fire is No. 1 in our dangers,” Volcanoville resident Patty Hunsinger told the supervisors. “It only takes 15 minutes for a fire to come from the canyon up to Volcanoville.”

Volcanoville resident Bret Preble said. “I’m asking you to show us the same compassion you’ve demonstrated in recent board meetings, and give us the best possible chance to survive the next catastrophic fire.”

Board members voted 4-1 to distribute the settlement funds with District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo voting no. He had previously advocated that the board consider contributing more to Caldor Fire victims in Grizzly Flat.

closing a city park because of funding shortages is “definitely on the table” as the council weighs repair priorities and limited resources.

Warren said the General Fund deficit comes “on the heels of two years of deficits” and acknowledged the city also must address funding deficits, deferred maintenance and personnel shortfalls.

The next budget workshop is scheduled May 21.

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“TRASH TALK”

El Dorado Disposal Newsletter - Spring ‘26 Edition

Fresh Strategies for a New Season

As spring arrives, it’s a perfect time to refresh solid waste habits and prepare for seasonal cleanups. Proper organics disposal such as separating food scraps, yard trimmings, and other compostable materials help reduce land ll volume while supporting healthier soils through composting programs. This season also brings unique items like old outdoor furniture, pool chemicals, and other various items that may have been kicking around the yard for a while, that require correct disposal or recycling. Knowing in advance what items are and aren’t recyclable saves time at the disposal facility, reduces contamination in recycling loads, and ensures more materials are successfully recovered. A little preparation goes a long way toward a cleaner community and a more ef cient waste management system.

From Your Curb to Our Community

Everything you place in your organics waste cart, from food scraps and coffee grounds to grass clippings and leaves, starts the process of creating organic compost. The organic waste that is collected from residents and businesses alike in El Dorado County is transferred, processed, and ultimately brought full circle back into the County as certi ed organic compost. The compost is then used by local farmers and even personal home gardeners, representing a sustainable, circular cycle.

Throughout the 2025 calendar year, we were able to deliver organic compost to local vineyards, schools, and residents, including Barsotti Inc., Madrona Vineyards, and Garden Valley High School to name a few. In total, over 3,000 tons of organic compost was brought back to the community over the course of the year. By using your organics cart correctly, you can help decrease land ll use and create valuable, nutritional compost for our community.

Customer Reviews:

“The El Dorado Disposal compost program has made it possible for us to get organic compost on all of our farm soil, including our fruit trees and strawberries, this year. Communication, site visits, and delivery have been easy and consistent. We’ve used compost from several large suppliers over the years and I’m happy with the quality of compost coming out of the El Dorado Disposal Program. I’m seeing good plant growth already.”

- Ben Woods, Mama Earth Farm

“We are so grateful for the compost donation to our FFA/Farm to Fork program. It’s very dif cult to nd funding for garden maintenance and El Dorado Disposal’s support is highly appreciated! The fact that it was delivered to us is also amazing! The compost is helping us amend our soil and we are looking forward to a productive growing season!”

- Amara, Golden Sierra JSHS

Clean Smarter This Spring: Safe & Responsible Disposal Tips

As you clean out garages,sheds,and storage areas this spring,it’s important to remember that although it’s tempting, not everything should be tossed in the trash container. Items such as pool chemicals, pesticides, insecticides, old cleaners, paints, batteries, and automotive uids should immediately be set aside from regular household waste. The listed items and products are considered hazardous materials and should be disposed of in a speci c manner. Residential household hazardous wastes can be brought to our Material Recovery Facility located at 4100 Throwita Way, Placerville and disposed of for FREE on Friday through Sunday. Our Household hazardous waste facility accepts a wide range of materials from orescent bulbs to everyday cleaning products, and proper disposal is crucial.

Why Organics Can Be Confusing: What’s Commonly Misunderstood

Many people want to “do the right thing” when it comes to organics recycling, but confusion remains common. So why does confusion happen in the rst place? The three main reasons we have found are 1. “Natural-Looking” Doesn’t Always Mean Compostable, 2. Packaging Labels Can Be Misleading, and 3. Paper Rules Change When Food Is Involved. Items made from plastic or synthetic materials like plant pots, netting, or gardening fabric are common contaminants found in the organics cart that belong in the trash cart. Words like biodegradable, eco, or compostable do not always mean an item should be placed in the curbside organics cart. Many compost facilities cannot process compostable plastics or specialty materials regardless of what the packaging states. Lastly, people are often taught that cardboard and paper go in the recycling, so when paper gets greasy or wet, they assume it must be trash. In reality, food-soiled paper belongs in the organics cart, not recycling or trash. Food residue disquali es items like pizza boxes, napkins, paper towels, paper plates and paper bags from recycling but makes them perfect for composting. A simple way to think about it is, did this come from food or plants and is it free of plastic? If yes, toss it in the organics cart. If plastic, synthetic, or treated, keep it out.

PROSPECTING

Section B ■ mtdemocrat.com

IN THE KNOW

May 8

El Dorado County Farm trails presents the Mother of all Spaghetti feeds, a scholarship fundraiser with live music from Bobby Dickson at 5 p.m. at the Rescue Community Center. Learn more at edc-farmtrails. org.

The Golden Cadillacs + Wayward Bu alo +Red Dirt Ruckus will perform, 7:30-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Plaid City will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 8 p.m. to midnight. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

May 9

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County will host Grow Your Imagination Garden, 9 a.m. to noon at Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville. Learn the basics of dish gardening while creating your own little space. Register at tinyurl.com/ysus49kx.

The El Dorado County Fair and Event Center will host its free Community Swap Meet from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. shine only Interested vendors should res.erve space early at edcfair.org/home/swapmeets. For more information visit eldoradocountyfair.org.

Marshal Gold Discovery Park will host its Mother’s Day Brunch By The River from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit golddiscoveryparkassociation. org.

Save the Graves will host its northern El Dorado County Cemeteries tour at 10 a.m. at Pioneer Cemetery, 521 Cold Springs Road in Placerville. For more information visit savethegraveseldorado.org.

Placerville Garden Club will hold its Plant and Bake Sale at the Veterans Memorial building from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information visit placervillegardenclub. wordpress.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.

Toogood Winery Tasting Room in Fairplay will host Tacos & Tempranillo from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit toogoodwinery.com.

Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode presents The Paw Brigade celebrating the future expansion plans for Animal Outreach from 1-6 p.m. at 875 Embarcadero Drive in El Dorado Hills. For more iniveformation visit animaloutreach.net.

Myka Estates, 3405 Carson Court in Placerville, is having a Spanish Cowgirl Release Party from noon to 4 p.m. Don your favorite western attire to celebrate the release of the new vintage of Spanish Cowgirl Rosé. Tickets include a glass of Spanish Cowgirl with two food pairings by Chef Lisa Scott, and access to the line dancing classes at 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. with instructor Lynette Souza. Tickets are available on the half hour from noon to 3 p.m. Fees will be charged the day of. For more information call (530) 644-3474.

A Night to ASPIRE

Andrew Vonderschmitt Features editor

ANight to ASPIRE, the second annual fundraiser for ASPIREKids, is set for May 16 at Brookshire Gardens, 6201 North St. in El Dorado from 5:30-9 p.m. The event promises to be a night for supporters, volunteers and community partners to gather and share a story about quiet generosity, resilience and the powerful belief that little moments of everyday life can be game-changers for a child.

For Jodi Mottashed, founder and executive director of ASPIREKids, the evening is a celebration, but it’s also a necessity.

“We are trying to raise money to keep the programs going,” Mottashed said. “We have six di erent programs under three di erent pillars of support that require community support and community giving to function and keep going.”

The nonprofit, which is marking its eighth anniversary this year, started with a simple idea and has blossomed into a comprehensive support system for vulnerable youth across El Dorado County. But even as it has grown, the mission remains personal.

Simple things matter

The idea for ASPIREKids goes back years to a conversation between Mottashed and her young son Mason. He was just 6 years old but already noticed that the opportunities he and his three siblings had — sports, activities and social connections — weren’t available to

every child.

“It was something that really resonated with him,” Mottashed said. “We kept talking about how one day we were going to do something to help kids be able to access the same kind of things.”

That conversation stuck with her, shaped by her own childhood experience in foster care. Between the ages of 4 and 12, Mottashed was moved to eight di erent homes in a small Iowa town where it was impossible to be anonymous.

Despite the instability, she vividly remembers the people who made a di erence. Caregivers and community members ensured she could keep playing sports, hanging out with friends and participating in normal, everyday childhood activities.

“They made sure that I stayed connected,” she said. “Those experiences really did change the trajectory of my life.”

That strong sense of belonging and connection — what Mottashed called a feeling of normalcy — is the absolute foundation of ASPIREKids today.

Mottashed launched the organization in 2018 after leaving a 25-year career in the mortgage industry. The entire family talked it through and all agreed that it was time to start this journey. ASPIREKids initially focused on helping children access extracurricular activities, but it expanded quickly based on what families and schools said they needed most.

Help kids thrive

Today, ASPIREKids runs six programs that cover everything from basic necessities to long-term support.

They help by providing essentials like clothing, food and toiletries through resource closets located in schools. They o er sponsorships for sports, arts and other activities; holiday assistance through its Christmas program; life skills workshops; and scholarships for graduating seniors. The organization mainly works through

trusted adults — social workers, therapists and schools — who refer children who need help. This model allows ASPIREKids to work largely behind the scenes. “The kids very rarely know that we’re behind the scenes actually providing the service,” Mottashed said. “They think they’re getting extra support from their

trusted adult.” This approach removes major barriers to getting help, like requiring families to prove income or forcing them to recount traumatic experiences. It’s all part of a clear philosophy: the goal isn’t public recognition; it’s impact. But this quiet

Enjoy music al fresco

Get your cozy spot on the green, join in honoring the armed forces and tap your toes to popular upbeat selections during the Folsom Lake Symphony’s Twilight Delight. The program includes “Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters,” themes from “Silverado,” “Raiders March” from “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” the Best of the Beatles medley, six service songs and more.

This free outdoor concert will take place at the Zittel Family Amphitheater in the Folsom Historic District at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 16. Seating area opens at 6

p.m. Bring your own chairs (full size chairs recommended). No tickets are required for entry. Wine and bottled water will be available for sale. Please, no outside alcohol.

Amphitheater space is on a first come, first served basis. If the amphitheater is full, you can still have an enjoyable evening listening to the symphony outside the amphitheater. The amphitheater is located at 200 Wool St., Folsom. Park at the adjacent parking garage at 905 Leidesdorff St. There is a $5 donation for parking which goes toward this and future events produced by the Folsom Historic District Association. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony.com.

Beer and Ballet returns

Sacramento Ballet News release

Sacramento Ballet will present the return of its popular “Beer & Ballet” program May 28-31 at The Sofia, Home of B Street Theatre, featuring 17 world premiere works choreographed and performed by company dancers.

The annual production gives audiences an opportunity to experience ballet in a more intimate and experimental format, with dancers stepping into the role of choreographers to create original works that reflect their artistic perspectives and creative voices.

creative ownership, experiment and share something deeply personal with our audiences.”

Rehearsal director Stefan Calka said the production highlights the diversity of the company’s artists and choreography.

“There’s an incredible sense of energy and discovery in this program,” Calka said. “Each piece offers a different perspective, and together they create an evening that is as diverse and exciting as the artists themselves.”

The performances will also serve as a farewell celebration for Hipolito, whose work with the company has left a lasting impact on audiences and fellow dancers.

The performances showcase a range of styles, from contemporary and abstract pieces to narrative-driven works.

Each ticket includes a complimentary beverage, including beer, wine or a nonalcoholic option. Craft beer will be provided by Bike Dog Brewing Company, helping create a casual and social atmosphere designed to make dance more accessible to audiences.

This year’s production will also mark the final performances of company artist Enrico Hipolito, who will take the stage for the last time with Sacramento Ballet before beginning a new chapter in his career.

Sacramento Ballet

Performances are scheduled for Thursday, May 28, and Friday, May 29, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 30, at 2 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, May 31, at 2 p.m.

According to rehearsal director Elise Elliott, the production allows dancers to take creative ownership of their work while sharing more personal artistic expressions with audiences.

“Beer & Ballet is where our dancers’ voices come fully to life,” Elliott said. “It’s an opportunity for them to take

Since its founding in 1954, Sacramento Ballet has been a beacon of artistic excellence in the California Capital Region, delivering world-class dance performances, education and community outreach programs. As the only dance company in the region with a roster of professional artists, Sacramento Ballet’s mission is to enhance the human condition through dance, making this transformative art form accessible to all. Through innovative programming and collaborations with internationally renowned artists, Sacramento Ballet remains a vital contributor to Sacramento’s thriving cultural landscape. A nonprofit organization, the company is supported by ticket sales, individual donors and corporate, foundation and government contributions, enabling it to inspire audiences through unparalleled performances and impactful educational initiatives. Tickets and additional information are available at sacballet.org.

Expanded lineup includes music & wellness

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

SACRAMENTO — With Northern California’s spring weather in full swing, upbeat music filling the air and the region’s bounty of locally grown and produced goods on display, May is an especially vibrant time to visit the Midtown Farmers Market.

The open-air market debuted in 2013 and operates Saturdays yearround, rain or shine. Spring and summer hours are now in effect from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The ever-growing market now spans six blocks in Midtown Sacramento.

Mental health awareness

In addition to fresh food offerings from more than 200 vendors during the spring season, the Midtown Association takes pride in creating a positive, wellness-focused community gathering place during May, recognized nationally as Mental Health Awareness Month.

“Starting in its very early days, the Midtown Farmers Market quickly evolved into a welcoming ‘third place’ that offers much more than fresh fruits and vegetables. For many, it has become an essential community gathering place that encourages social interaction and a sense of civic pride,” said Emily Baime Michaels.

“In today’s fast-paced world filled with heavy social media use and varying opinions, the positive public space and person-to-person connection at the Midtown Farmers Market offers physical and mental health benefits that may help to ward off loneliness and isolation,” Michaels added. “It’s a great example of intentional placemaking and the positive impacts that take root.”

Special market activations

The Midtown Farmers Market will feature special activations and live entertainment throughout May, presented by SMUD and held in Market Square at 20th and K streets unless otherwise noted.

Saturday, May 9

• 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Oyster shucking competition hosted by Sac Shuckoff in the Culinary Corridor.

• 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Live music by A King’s Dream.

Saturday, May 16

• 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Live music by The Mighty Wallops members Bobby Waller and Peter Halldorf.

Saturday, May 23

• 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Live music by singer-songwriter John Alan Connerley.

Saturday, May 30

• 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Acoustic performance by duo Flynn Martin.

To help visitors navigate the sprawling market, organizers have divided it into themed sections including Artisan Alley, Boutique Boulevard, Market Square, Merchant Market, Producers Plaza, Savory Street, Street Food Sacramento and Culinary Corridor, presented by American Property Management.

Midtown Sacramento offers public transportation access and is walkable and bike-, scooter- and car-share friendly. Learn more at midtownfarmersmarketsac.com.

Choral collaboration presents a Dawn Within

The soaring sounds of choral music will fill the historical halls of the Placerville Shakespeare Club when Cantare Chorale presents its final spring concert, “Dawn Within,” on Monday, May 11.

The 7 p.m. performance will feature a collaboration between Cantare Chorale of the Sierra Foothills and the Folsom Lake College Falcon Choir under the direction of Artistic Director Mariia Pechenova.

The 45-member chorus will be accompanied by strings, oboe, percussion and piano in a program that blends classical, gospel and contemporary music. Audience members will be taken on a musical journey through themes inspired by the earth, sky, stars and cosmos while exploring ideas of peace, love, hope and renewal.

Selections in Dawn Within will move through imagery of fire, wind, darkness and morning light before concluding with an Italian piece inspired by Leonardo da Vinci and his dream of flight.

Pechenova has served as Cantare’s artistic director since 2014, leading the ensemble through a wide-ranging repertoire while developing singers from diverse musical backgrounds.

Cantare Chorale

Founded in 1992, Cantare Chorale of the Sierra Foothills is a nonprofit community chorus dedicated to

bringing high-quality choral music to audiences throughout the region. The ensemble performs in concerts and community events throughout the year.

FLC Vocal & Choral Program

The FLC Vocal & Choral Program provides vocal performance and choral opportunities for students at Folsom Lake College through ensembles, concerts and community collaborations. The program includes the Falcon Choir. The concert will be held at the Shakespeare Club, located at 2940 Bedford Ave. in Placerville. Learn more at cantarechorale.com.

American River Canine will host the Pack Walk at El Dorado

Hills Town Center at 4:30 p.m.

A dog walk around around the pond, through center, to Pet Food Express, to Ace Hardware and back to the amphitheater.

To learn more or to register visit edcgsr.org/pack-walks.

Little Mischief will perform, 4-6 p.m. and Matt Rainey and The Dippin Sauce will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Donnie & the Wayrads will perform at the Red Hawk

Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

May 10

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

Nello Olivo Winery in Camino will host A Fun Event for Mom with cheese and charcuterie, a juice flight and Grand Cuvee from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit nelloolivo.com.

Gwinllan Estate Vineyard and

Winery in Fair Play will host its Mother’s Day Brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information visit gwinllanestate.com.

Myka Estates, 3405 Carson Court in Placerville, is having a Mother’s Day Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy award-winning craft wines and a three-course lunch fit for a queen, prepared by Chef Lisa Scott. Start with a welcome pour of Blanc de Noir Sparkling; strawberry, feta, prosciutto and basil salad with strawberry vinaigrette paired with 2025 Spanish Cowgirl; and chicken scallopini over pappardelle

pasta paired with 2022 Côtes du Cruz Rouge; mocha crème brulée paired with Myka Estates Port Style Dessert Wine. Make a reservation to secure a table and fees will be charged the day of the lunch. Reservations are available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please communicate any dietary restrictions to info@ mykaestates.com at least 48 hours in advance, if not included in initial reservation notes. For reservations call (530) 644-3474.

Divided Plains will perform at 2 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Crystal Basin Cellars in Placerville will host Mother’s Day Make Your Own Bouquet from noon to 5 p.m. For more information visit crystalbasin.com.

VAPA Presents FLC Youth Chamber Orchestra Spring Concerto at 2 p.m. on Stage Three and Night Owl Shows presents The Carole King & James Taylor Story at 3 p.m. on Stage One at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.

The Sofia in Sacramento presents Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet Sprocket with Garrison Starr at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

May 11

Cantare Chorale presents Dawn Within evening concert at Placerville Shakespeare Club at 7 p.m. For more information visit cantarechorale.com.

Monday Open Mic Night hosted by Grayson Howard will take place, 6-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

EC presents the 4th annual High School Entrepreneurs Showcase at 5 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

May 12

Vitalant will hold a Blood Drive at the Georgetown Oddfellows Hall, 6240 Main St., 1:30-5 p.m. To make an appointment use code SMFM028 and call (877) 258-4825 or visit donors. vitalant.org.

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

The Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park will host Country Western Line Dancing with Sara Schindler with lessons at 6 p.m. and open dance from 7-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke. com.

El Dorado Hills Genealogical Society will host a Zoom presentation, All About Sources, and Attaching Them to Family Search and Ancestry by Betty Lemley and business meeting from 6-8 p.m. To register email edhgssecretary@gmail.com. To learn more visit edhgs.org.

The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley presents Eric JohnsonTexaphonic Tour at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.

May 13

Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment Group, 1-2:30 p.m. at Foothills Church, 2380 Merrychase Drive, Cameron Park.

SIR — Gold Country Branch is holding its monthly luncheon meeting at 11:30 a.m. at the Cameron Park Country Club. Lunch is complimentary for guests. There will be a guest speaker. Contact the branch’s membership chairman at SIRBranch95@gmail.com for more details. SIR is an organization which offers social activities for men over 50. To learn more about SIR visit WeAreSIR.com.

Mind Games Trivia Night hosted by Amber “Lucky”

Stann will take place, 6-8 p.m. and Rockstar Karaoke will take place, 8-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Broadway at Music Circus presents “Back to the Future the Musical” through May 24 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Now

Registration is open for the 43rd annual Bob West Drive for Marshall to take place on June 26 at Cold Springs Golf and Country Club. For more information or to register visit marshallfound.org.

Ponderosa High School Theater presents “Disney’s Frozen” through May 9. For tickets and more information visit pondodrama.com.

Imagination Theater at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents “Narnia the Musical” through May 10. For

Let us help spread the word. Send your scholarship information to andrewv@mtdemocrat.net.

Asparagus and Goat Cheese Frittata

Vermont Farm to Table Tender asparagus and fresh spinach come together in this spring frittata that highlights some of the season’s earliest harvests.

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

1-2

Add

Directions

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Top with reserved spinach and crumbled chèvre. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the frittata is set and lightly golden. For more information visit vermontfarmtotable.net.