Mountain Democrat, Wed., May 6, 2026

Local veterans heading to nation’s capital for Honor Flight experience

Water rescue turns into a recovery

Noel Stack Editor

One person died after an incident at the Rock Creek Bridge swimming pools Saturday morning, Mosquito Fire Protection District o cials confirmed.

Crews responded to the scene for a water rescue but a message to the public noted, “Despite all e orts made, there was one fatality and one dog is still missing.” The victim has been identified as Robert Willie-Solomon III, 26, from Sacramento. The dog is described as a German shepherd roughly 5 years old.

Rock Creek Road was closed for a couple hours while emergency crews worked in the area. MFPD was assisted by the El Dorado County Fire Protection District, Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit and El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce. Authorities warn everyone to take caution when recreating in and around natural areas as they can encounter unseen dangers, which may have been the case this time. “The swimming areas

■ See DROWNING, page A3

Chris Woodard Sta writer

Cameron Park veteran will soon take part in a trip designed to

and

On May 14, Honor Flight Bay Area will embark on its 42nd mission, flying a group of veterans from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., for an all-expenses-paid, threeday visit to the nation’s military memorials.

be 93 while I’m gone, and I was just honored to be included.”

Wheeler will turn 93 on May 20.

The Honor Flight program pairs each veteran with a “guardian” who assists them throughout the journey. Wheeler will travel alongside fellow veteran James Cahill, an El Dorado County resident who served in Guam with the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. The two had not met prior to being paired for the trip.

“I want to see it all.”

Among those selected is Norm Wheeler, a 92-yearold Army veteran and El Dorado County resident who served during the Korean War as a radio operator stationed along the border between North Korea and South Korea, a position he referred to as “peacekeeper.”

Wheeler said he was both surprised and grateful when he learned he would be part of the trip.

“Well, I thought it was great,” Wheeler said. “It’s my birthday. I’ll

To help make the experience possible, American Legion Post 119 in Placerville branch provided financial support for Cahill’s participation. During a recent meeting, Commander Laurelee Flannery presented a $1,250 check to cover the guardian’s costs, allowing both veterans to make the trip together.

Despite not knowing his guardian beforehand, Wheeler said sharing the experience adds to the significance of

■ See FLIGHT, page A3

MARVEL AT MAGNIFICENT MAPS

MORE PHOTOS AND THE COMPLETE RESULTS INSIDE ON PAGE B1.

Three candidates vying for the

their

in

answered questions and

of a

■ See FORUM, page A8

ESSENTIALS

Perfecto “Pete”

Celestino Chavez Jr.

Feb. 25th, 1928 – Apr. 18th, 2025

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, o ering 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.

Deceaseds 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 Sheri ’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.

Susan Prall

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 o ce.

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 o er 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

The following information was taken from PPD reports:

April 19

11:57 a.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public at a business on Fair Lane.

12:04 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at the Highway 50 underpass and Point View Drive.

1:22 p.m. Burglary was reported at a business on Broadway.

April 20

6:36 p.m. Assault with a deadly weapon was reported on Briw Road.

April 21

1:02 a.m. Loitering was reported on Marshall Way.

6:39 a.m. Loitering was reported on Marshall Way.

7:09 a.m. Loitering was reported on Marshall Way.

11:02 a.m. Brandishing was reported on Broadway and Smith Flat Road.

2:38 p.m. O cers arrested a person allegedly acting suspicious on Broadway.

3:57 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a shopping center on Ray Lawyer Drive.

4:05 p.m. Loitering was reported on Broadway.

7:34 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Placerville Drive.

11:23 p.m. Petty theft was reported on Tunnel Street.

April 22

4:01 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Fair Lane.

7:18 a.m. A person was allegedly loitering at the bus station on Mosquito Road.

8:32 a.m. A verbal ght was reported on Main Street.

1:17 p.m. A person with an outstanding warrant was arrested on Broadway.

5 p.m. A report was taken for suspicious activity on Lincoln Street.

6:36 p.m. A report was taken for trespassing at a motel on Broadway..

/ tbmcnaughton@mtdemocrat.net

/ andrewv@mtdemocrat.net Shelly Thorene Staff writer 530-344-5063 / sthorene@mtdemocrat.net

LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES

Lake Valley mourns fallen engineer

Mountain Democrat sta

Lake Valley Fire Protection District Fire Engineer

Neil Schnaible died five days after su ering a massive heart attack and brain bleed while on duty.

Lake Valley Fire Protection District Fire Chief John McNamara made the announcement May 4. “Engineer Schnaible served the Lake Valley Fire Protection District and the community of South Lake Tahoe with honor, distinction and unwavering dedication,” McNamara shared. “He exemplified the highest ideals of the fire service — courage, professionalism and a selfless commitment to protecting lives and property. His service to this district and to this community will never be forgotten.

“On behalf of the board of directors, the o cers and members of the Lake Valley Fire Protection District and the entire fire service community, we extend our deepest condolences to Engineer Schnaible’s family, friends and loved ones,” the chief continued. “Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this immeasurable time of loss.”

Schnaible began his fire service career in March 2019, serving the communities of Meyers and South Tahoe. He was recently promoted to the rank of engineer.

The flag at Lake Valley Fire Protection District headquarters was flown at half-sta in honor of Schnaible.

“Neil’s last wish was to be an organ donor, even in death he is giving life and a second chance to so many people across the country,” McNamara said. “That is what Neil wanted. We should all strive to be a little more like Neil.” Memorial service arrangements are pending and will be announced at a later date.

Pollock park in line to receive grant

Noel Stack Editor

The Forebay Park Improvement Project in Pollock Pines is set to collect $1.4 million in Land and Water Conservation Fund grants, one of 18 park projects in California that has secured funds, according to an announcement made by California State Parks.

We are so very excited and grateful,” said District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine. “These grant funds, along with $1 million in support from El Dorado County and several

thousand dollars in local contributions, will provide the spark that we needed to begin these long-awaited improvements.”

Forebay Park features a multi-purpose community building, baseball field, regulation horseshoe pits and picnic areas. El Dorado County acquired the 12-acre park in 2014 from the El Dorado Irrigation District. Community meetings and project planning began the following year.

Improvements include a new parking lot, new restrooms, enhanced

picnic areas, a disc golf course and a state-ofthe-art playground.

“This park will likely be an important hub in Pollock Pines for future generations,” Laine shared. “The park will serve the needs of the oldest to the youngest residents and our canine population too.”

LWCF grants provide funding for the acquisition or development of land to create new outdoor recreation opportunities for the health and wellness of Californians, a news release from California State Parks notes.

Treasurer-tax collector forum will take over Town Hall

League of Women Voters of El Dorado County News release

On May 7 the League of Women Voters of El Dorado County will host a public candidate forum for the El Dorado County treasurer-tax collector, providing voters an opportunity to hear directly from candidates and learn more about the issues.

The forum will take place 6-7 p.m. at the Placerville Town Hall, 549 Main St. in Placerville. Confirmed participants are Sean Coppola and Corey Leikauf. The forum will feature a moderated discussion focused on key topics relevant to the position of treasurertax collector, including an opportunity for audience questions. The event is designed to help voters make informed decisions ahead of the election.

Drowning

Continued from A1

beneath the Rock Creek Bridge, while beautiful, can be extremely dangerous and have claimed lives nearly every year. The main pool contains a lowhead dam hydraulic that creates a

Flight Continued from A1

the journey.

“I had never heard of Honor Flight before, but I’m honored to be going with other vets,” Wheeler said.

The trip itinerary includes visits to memorials and museums dedicated to American military history, including stops Wheeler is particularly looking forward to.

“I get to go to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and visit a new war museum,” Wheeler said. “I want to see it all.” Wheeler, who grew up primarily in Napa and served about two years in the Army, hopes to meet fellow

2nd

The event is free and open to the public. It will also be recorded by Foothill TV and added to the LWV EDC YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@ leagueofwomenvotersofeldor7159.

“Forums like this are essential to a healthy democracy,” said Elizabeth Leslie- Gassaway, president of the League of Women Voters of El Dorado County and moderator of the event.

“They give voters the opportunity to hear directly from the candidates, no spin, just clear, factual information about where they stand. When people have access to the information, they are empowered to make informed decisions at the ballot box. That’s how we strengthen civic engagement and protect the integrity of our democratic process.”

For more information visit facebook.com/LWVEDC or email LWVElDoradocounty@gmail.com.

powerful ‘washing machine’ e ect, making it very di cult to escape once caught in it,” the district shared in a social media post, adding that there are warning signs near the

In addition to the grant, donations and the $1 million previously earmarked by the Board of Supervisors, the project’s budget includes $3 million from American Rescue Plan Act funds and $300,000 in Proposition 68 funds. For more details about the park improvement project visit the website: eldoradocounty.ca.gov/ Land-Use/Parks-Trails/ Parks/Forebay-Park.

Little’s Dental News

FIRMLY ROOTED

Korean War vets during the trip or learn more about their experiences in the war.

Looking ahead, he said the Honor Flight is about more than sightseeing — it’s about reflection.

“This will be a memory and will be my last state visit, and I’m just looking forward to it,” Wheeler said.

The Honor Flight Network, which includes more than 130 hubs nationwide, relies on private donations to fund its missions, with the majority of funds going directly toward flight costs for veterans. For more details visit honorflight.org.

California Matters

OPINION Legislature’s adviser tries budget tough love to get politicians to close deficits

Since 1941, California’s Legislature has had an independent budget adviser to monitor the ebb and flow of state finances — particularly the governor’s budget — and suggest ways they could be improved.

Traditionally, the Legislative Analyst’s O ce ignores politics and provides its advice in neutral — even bland — language, implicitly telling politicians that they are free to either accept or reject its findings, but at least they cannot claim ignorance.

Recently, however, Legislative Analyst Gabe Petek, just the sixth person to hold the position over the last 85 years, has adopted a more emphatic tone, warning Gov. Gavin Newsom and legislators that they must close their chronic, multibilliondollar deficits.

Newsom has promised that his revised budget will not only close current gaps between income and outgo, but it will ensure his successor won’t be stuck with a budget leaking red ink?

For the past four years — when Newsom declared that the state had a $97.5 billion surplus that turned out to be an illusion based on an erroneous revenue projection — he and legislators have been overspending revenues, creating $125 billion in deficits that were papered over with on- and o -the-books loans, deferrals and creative bookkeeping, such as shifting the state payroll from one fiscal year into another.

Petek’s latest cautionary report, issued last week, ramps up the language even more, detailing how general fund spending has increased by over $100 billion a year, outstripping revenues, since 2019, the year Newsom took o ce.

“Both our o ce and the administration have estimated the state faces structural deficits ranging from $20 billion to $30 billion annually,” Petek reiterates. “While recent revenue gains — driven by a strong stock market and investor enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence — have buoyed the state’s near-term budget picture, long-term imbalance will likely persist without significant policy changes.”

■ See WALTERS, page A5

Message from McClintock

Letters to the Editor

Experience vs. political in uence

EDITOR:

El Dorado County’s election is right around the corner (June 2) and mail-in ballots were distributed May 4. While there are a few contested races, I would like to turn your attention to one with significant impacts on the county’s finances: treasurer-tax collector. The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s O ce is responsible for issuing business licenses, collecting property taxes and managing a $1.1 billion investment portfolio. The elected candidate will direct these operations and manage some 25 personnel. Let’s take a closer look at the two candidates.

Sean Coppola is a Certified Treasury Professional and your current treasurer-tax collector, who was unanimously appointed by the county Board of Supervisors following his predecessor’s retirement. Prior to this role he served as assistant treasurertax collector and oversaw 200 sta as controller for a nationwide property management firm.

Mr. Coppola is endorsed by individuals such as previous Treasurer-Tax Collector K.E. Coleman, former Sheri John D’Agostini, three county supervisors and fellow foothill county treasurertax collectors.

Corey Leikauf is currently an administrative analyst II in the Auditor-Controller’s O ce. His prior work experience includes serving as an auditor for Deloitte and Eide Bailly but does not appear to have any experience leading departments. Mr. Leikauf is endorsed by individuals such as Assemblymember Heather Hadwick, former state legislators Ted and Beth Gaines and various law enforcement o cials. At a glance, the candidates have similar backgrounds — both raised in El Dorado County and in their early 30s — though each candidate has distinct advantages in this race. Mr. Coppola is an incumbent with experience managing the

Ensuring the public’s right to a hassle-free Yosemite

Several recent columns appearing in the San Francisco Chronicle and SF Gate criticize the decision to scrap Yosemite’s bureaucratic reservation system, attributing this to gridlock, parking shortages, entrance delays, mangled bears and plummeting morale.

To these critics, the ideal solution is the radical 1980 General Management plan. It would have ultimately banned all tra c from the park and required visitors to stop nearly 50 miles away, pack up the kids, the binkies, blankies and backpacks and then take a government bus more than an hour in order to set foot in the Yosemite Valley. They also favor the so-called Merced River Plan that sought to drastically reduce amenities available to park visitors.

Now they favor the reservation system that greatly inconvenienced park visitors in 2024. To them, these restrictive measures produced happy park rangers and happier bears.

Yet to the public, they meant that an average of 700 cars a day — filled with families who had driven hours to enjoy a day at Yosemite — were turned away at the gates for lack of reservations. Meanwhile, inside the Valley, parking lots sat half empty. Hotel reservations fell thousands short and many tourists who booked a room outside the park were refused entry at the gates for lacking a reservation.

Clearly, the reservation system significantly suppressed what would otherwise have been a robust rebound in tourism following the COVID closures. Strict daily reservations were imposed in July 2024, and by August,

The Yosemite Grant Act of 1864 pledged that this natural masterpiece would be forever available to Americans for “public use, resort and recreation.” Today’s woke elitists would change that to “Look, but don’t touch.”

year-over-year visitation declined 7.7%

at a time it should have been rising. Visitor stops at the Mariposa visitor center dropped 10%. Throughout all of 2024, 327,707 fewer visitors came to the park than the average of the four years preceding COVID.

Nor are the bears any worse o . A 1943 report put the Yosemite bear population at between 300 and 400. The most recent estimate puts it between 300 and 500.

This is not to say that crowding in the Valley hasn’t been a big problem — but the solution is better management, not restricting access. Today, there are only about half the parking spaces, rooms and campsites at Yosemite as were available to visitors prior to the 1997 flood.

Although Congress appropriated funds to restore this capacity, it never was. A succession of incompetent superintendents tolerated ine cient admissions and time-consuming transactions that often meant long lines at the gates. Under Yosemite’s new superintendent, Ray McPadden, these deficiencies are finally being addressed. He is instituting a large number of improvements that have been advocated by the gateway communities for a decade, but that were haughtily ignored by park managers until now.

To address gate delays, he has introduced digitized entry passes

SPORTS

Exciting finishes highlight shootout’s opening night

Gary Thomas

Placerville Speedway

Oakley’s Dylan

Bloomfield and Redding’s Max Mittry

shared victory lane at Placerville Speedway on Friday, each picking up exhilarating late race wins on opening night of the Nor*Cal Posse Shootout/Legends Weekend presented by Berco Building Materials. Both drivers were competing aboard unfamiliar cars, as Bloomfield piloted the C&M Motorsports No. 7c Winged Sprinter, while Mittry brought the Chase Johnson Racing No. 24 back to victory lane with the Ultimate Sprint Car Series. The 30-lap Winged Sprint Car feature began with 2023 SCCT

champion Justyn Cox rocketing into the lead. An inordinate amount of caution flags came out in the main event, which forced Cox to deal

with numerous restarts. He did a tremendous job every time while keeping the field at bay for much of the contest.

Bloomfield had settled into second and closed the gap a few times as lapped tra c came into play, but each moment that would occur, yellow flag fever appeared. A final five lap shootout then came into play and during it, things began to heat up.

With drivers continuing to fly around the high side Bloomfield closed in quickly with the white flag soon approaching. Heading into the final set of corners Bloomfield charged to the bottom in turn three and drove up in front of Cox.

The pair battled tooth and nail, side by side down to the checkered flag with Bloomfield coming out on top by the narrowest of margins. The thrilling conclusion was his third career Placerville Speedway triumph and the second of 2026. Cox continued his early season speed by claiming the ADCO Driveline Fast Time Award to begin the evening and coming home second in the feature. It marked his second runner up e ort of the Placerville campaign. Reigning track champion Tony Gomes gave it a nice run in the main event, carving his way from 10th to third while Mittry and Nick Parker completed the top five. Rounding out the top 10 were Tanner Carrick, Shane Golobic, Luke Hayes, Michael Sellers and Jake Haulot. It was a nice recovery for

Braden Chiaramonte dominated the May 2 Winged 360 Sprint Car race during Placerville Speedway’s Nor*Cal Posse Shootout/Legends Weekend event.

Chiaramonte, Mittry finish the Posse Shootout in victory lane

El Cajon’s Braden Chiaramonte started on the front row and dominated the Winged 360 Sprint Car portion of the Nor*Cal Posse Shootout/Legends Weekend on Saturday, May 2, claiming the $8,000 top prize at Placerville Speedway.

On the Ultimate Sprint Car Series side of things, it was Max Mittry going back-to-back for Chase Johnson Racing. In doing so, he brought home the $1,000 double duty bonus courtesy of Quick Change Liquid Energy Drink and Vertullo Racing 83V.

The 30-lap Winged 360 Sprint Car finale at the Nor*Cal Posse Shootout presented by Berco Building Materials saw Braden Chiaramonte outduel pole sitter Justyn Cox on the start to grab the lead.

The top side was certainly the place to be and Chiaramonte ran it to perfection each lap.

Not even a late restart could stop the past SCCT Rookie of the Year, as he drove away to claim his first career Placerville Speedway Sprint Car triumph. The 19-year-old also set a new Non-Winged Sprint Car track record earlier in the program.

That late restart did see Fremont’s Shane Golobic sneak by Cox to grab the runner up spot. The three-time Trophy Cup champion had set the ADCO Driveline Fast Time earlier in the evening and then capped it with a solid second place effort in the feature.

After finishing runner up on opening night Cox returned on Saturday and put together another strong night of competition while rounding out the podium. The 2023 SCCT titlist won his heat race, the dash and ran second for a majority of the main event.

Friday winner Dylan Bloomfield came home fourth, followed by current Placerville Speedway point

Opening Continued from A6

Golobic, who brought out a caution while running third on lap five.

In the 30 lap Ultimate Sprint Car Series finale it was Mittry who took command early on and had his way with things for most of the race. Much like the Winged 360 main event, yellow flags slowed the flow of things at times during the contest.

Once some green flag racing was put in the books though the action became fast and furious on the quarter mile bullring. Drivers raced high, low and in the middle with close battles taking place throughout the pack.

As the race wound down El Cajon’s Braden Chiaramonte closed on Mittry and the pair proceeded to put on an epic show for the lead. The incredible clash saw Chiaramonte officially lead lap 28, before Mittry sliced his way back by, leading the white flag lap.

Mittry would go on to cross under the Ed Entz checkered flag for a very special victory aboard the Chase Johnson Racing No. 24 mount. Friday night marked the first time CJR has been back in competition since Johnson’s accident at Silver Dollar

COMICS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

leader Andy Forsberg in fifth. The remainder of the top 10 was filled out by Tanner Carrick, 17th-starting Tony Gomes, Nick Parker, Shane Hopkins and Mittry.

The Ultimate Sprint Car Series main event showcased a thrilling first 12 laps, with multiple drivers battling it out at the front of the field. Things came to a halt though when contact between second running David Gasper and third place Cole Wakim caused a pileup in turns one and two.

Mittry had started on the pole and led those initial 12 circuits. When going back green he had his way with things for much of the remaining distance. Lincoln’s Tanner Carrick stayed close on one late restart, but there was nothing to stop the fastmoving Mittry.

The SCCT Speedweek champion from last year pulled away and crossed under the Ed Entz checkered flag to sweep the weekend with USCS aboard the CJR No. 24 mount. Carrick crossed the stripe in second, followed by 17th-starter Nate Schank, who had an exciting run through the field after winning the B-main.

Reigning USCS champ Jacob Tuttle and Josh Young completed the top five. Filling out the top 10 were Bradley Terrell, Ryan Timmons, 18th-starting Brent Steck, Jake Morgan and Bob Newberry.

Another solid field of 28 cars was on hand with the USCS Non-Wingers. Braden Chiaramonte began the night by setting a new track record, clocking an 11.325 around the quarter mile.

Placerville Speedway returns to action this coming Saturday, May 9, during Mother’s Day Madness presented by RJM Builders.

All four of the track regulars will be in competition including the Thompson’s Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models, Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks and the Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks.

Speedway in 2024. For Mittry it was his second career Sprint Car victory after getting his initial triumph one week prior at Watsonville Speedway. Chiaramonte, Cole Wakim, Ryan Timmons and Jacob Tuttle rounded out the top five. Both Wakim and Tuttle were fun to watch while they drove the ragged edge of

Placerville Speedway. Completing the top 10 were Shane Hopkins, Tanner Carrick, Nate Schank, Austin Cato and Alex Peck. A strong field of 30 cars competed on opening night with USCS. Blake Bower started the evening by setting new Non-Winged Sprint Car track record with a lap of 11.502.

Announcements

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

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

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

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Self-care isn’t always about doing things; it’s also about not doing things, or doing things at a comfortable pace. Rest is essential. Sleep long hours when you feel you need it. It’s part of what keeps you quick and strong when it matters.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). This is the kind of day that could be written into a field report. You really are a fascinating subject, whose decisions, instincts and odd preferences could be studied. Someone loves your signature moves and lets you know.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). When people say what they’ll do, you believe them. But if they don’t deliver, you don’t continue to listen to what they say, because words are essentially meaningless. It’s what they add up to that matters.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). It’s good to be needed. In the thrust of the day’s activities, you get the sense that you’re fulfilling your purpose. But the part of each day in which no one expects anything of you? If that’s your favorite part, count yourself “normal.”

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). It seems the usual surroundings have run dry. So, you stop looking out there for excitement. Deliberately imagine what could be fun, intriguing and worth pursuing next. Your mind offers ideas like movie trailers for your future.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). In a good group, victories are more fun and setbacks are easier to handle. In the wrong group, it can feel like the opposite. Credit is diluted, blame is spread unevenly, losses feel heavier too. The group should make your life easier.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Sometimes saying yes to life means saying yes less often. This is one of those times. Progress comes when you focus on one thing, do it well and keep at it to completion. The accomplishment will give you continuing confidence.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). It can feel like you’re living in two different worlds depending on your state. When emotions run hot, don’t make any big decisions. Because those decisions won’t match your wants and needs on a typical day.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Is there something daunting about the future? You’ve felt this way before. You can handle what’s next. Just look at what you’ve already done. That proof builds confidence. Keep noticing even small wins because it helps you stay motivated. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’ll get clarity debating an idea with someone you respect. In defending your position, you’ll listen closely for opportunities to refine your thinking. The experience sharpens your mind and builds confidence in your ability to hold your own.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You’ve cultivated a distinctive taste for something trivial —

topics ranging from budget deficits to fire safety and vacation home rentals to senior services during the event hosted by the League of Women Voters of El Dorado County and moderated by chapter President Elizabeth Leslie-Gassaway. Candidate Ted Gaines declined the invitation to participate in the forum.

All three present emphasized their connection to El Dorado County, with Clark growing up here and moving back with his family after launching his career; Dietz trekking on the Rubicon since the 1980s and moving here in the early ’90s; and Posey retiring here more than 20 years ago after a successful career in the Bay Area.

The candidates all acknowledged District 4, and the county as a whole, has challenges. When it came to priorities, the trio agreed continuing fire safety and prevention efforts tops the list.

Wildfire

risk

Noting her success in creating a Firewise Community and serving on the Greater Cameron Park Fire Safe Council, Posey said she would like to see more communities achieve Firewise status, stressing it’s important residents and landowners do their parts and vital that the Office of Wildfire Preparedness and Resilience continue its work of educating the public and funding fire mitigation projects.

Clark, a Placerville Fire Safe Council member, also applauded OWPR’s efforts, especially the work with the El Dorado County and Georgetown Divide Resource Conservation Districts, which has several projects on the Divide.

Deitz lamented the loss of mills in the county, noting that logging in the Eldorado National Forest continues but options are limited as to where crews can take the fallen trees to be milled. As a result, he said, a lot of downed trees are on the ground.

Short-term rentals

The West Slope Vacation Home Rental Ad Hoc Committee is currently taking comments on opposed changes to the West Slope VHR Ordinance, which provides guidelines for homeowners who want to rent their property to vacationers/short-term visitors. Clark agreed VHRs are important for tourism, which brings in tax revenue, but said the county needs to evaluate the locations to minimize impacts of residents. “What I don’t want are short-term rentals taking over an entire community,” he said.

Deitz said VHRs “are not an easy problem.” On one hand, they are great for tourism, he acknowledged; on the other, they can come with negative impacts. The candidate maintained that responsible ownership is vital.

Posey noted there’s “real value to short-term rentals.” She said she would like to see the county take a moderate approach to the issue, approving VHRs where appropriate and also enforcing the rules to encourage better management from the homeowners.

Economic opportunities

“Our county is broken,” Deitz told the crowd. “We are stopping growth; we are stopping businesses.”

Dietz spoke frequently on the roadblocks entrepreneurs and business owners encounter when they want to set up shop in El Dorado County. He said if elected he would eliminate the red tape. He noted empty spaces in business parks, where the infrastructure is there but businesses can’t move in because of the county’s excessive regulations and requirements. This prevents the county from bringing in much-needed revenue, he said. He also pointed out El Dorado County needs to better promote its agri-tourism and history — both great draws for tourists.

Posey noted the economic opportunities that are coming to the Divide with the extension of broadband services. She agreed that EDC Planning and Building needs to transition to a customer service organization that helps people instead of throwing up roadblocks. She also supports better tourism promotion and said she’d like to see the county pursue clean energy and healthcare job opportunities. Posey advocated for partnerships between schools and local industries, promoting student internships and apprenticeships.

Clark touted the El Dorado County Strategic Economic Enhancement Development Committee, which is advising the Board of Supervisors in the development of a countywide economic development plan. He told the audience the county should support industries that fit within the county’s rural character, listing light industrial, technology and healthcare services. He stressed the importance of following the voter-approved EDC General Plan and agreed with his fellow candidates that the county needs to do more to promote tourism.

Love for libraries

Applause followed all three candidates’ endorsement for Measure C, the continuation of a parcel tax on the Divide that funds programs and more at the Georgetown Library.

“Libraries are great,” Clark said. “They are important community hubs.”

Deitz called Measure C a “no-brainer,” sharing, “I think the library is a focal point of the community.”

Posey agreed, noting with a chuckle, “Endorsing this is the easiest question of the campaign.”

Watch the forum

Watch the candidate forum on the League of Women Voters of El Dorado County’s YouTube page: youtube.com/@ leagueofwomenvotersofeldor7159/featured.

Dine & Discover: A Culinary Spotlight Event Tuesday, May 19 at 12 p.m.

Community

Event Wednesday, June 17 from 2 - 4 p.m.

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

May 6

Singer Songwriter Sessions: Appreciation & Birthday Celebration for Fred Webb will take place, 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Espejos: Clean” through June 7. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.

The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley presents Illumination Tales free Student Matinée at 10 a.m. and North Mississippi AllStars at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.

May 7

Join the El Dorado Community Foundation for its Professional Advisors Forum, a free educational event, from 7:30-11 a.m. at Serrano Country Club. For more information or to register visit eldoradocf.org.

FamilySearch Center will host Preserving Pictures, Digitize for Free. at 2 p.m. at 3275 Cedar Ravine, Placerville.

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host the Art & Bloom Studio Grand Opening at 995 Governor Drive, Suite 102 from 4-7 p.m. Check out the space and enjoy complimentary refreshments, free art stations and shop. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.

Join American River Conservancy for Fishing on the Farm from 4:30 p.m. to sunset. A detailed email will be sent once you register online at ARConservancy.org.

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host its Networking After Dark Mixer at Los Pinos, 3420 Palmer Drive, Cameron Park from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.

Left of Cool Duo will perform, 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

FLC Dance and Music Departments presents A Swingin’ Salute Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday at 6:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.

The Mills Station Arts and Culture Center in Rancho Cordova presents No Bad Parts a solo show by Madison Dunn and Art A’ La Carte, an exhibit that celebrates food and the farm to fork movement both through May 23. For more information visit rcmacc.org.

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.

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

Student cartographers earn top honors

The Board of Supervisors’ chamber was filled to capacity with eager students, proud parents and dedicated educators for the 32nd annual Surveyors, Architects, Geologists and Engineers of El Dorado County Map Contest award ceremony during the April 21 meeting.

County Surveyor Brian Frazier opened the ceremony by thanking the board and everyone who made hosting the ceremony possible and introduced SAGE President of three years, Andrew Chafer who stated the purpose of SAGE was “to provide and share the technical expertise of our members with the community.” Chafer added, “In addition, we work with public agencies and community leaders regarding public interest as it relates to land surveying, architecture, geology and engineering. We provide a service to our youth community by sponsoring and hosting the annual student map contest. Over the past 32 years of the map contest SAGE has donated over $100,000 in awards and prizes to the top student artists who participate in the county-wide annual contest.”

Chafer thanked the County Surveyor’s o ce, County Resource Conservation District, the Board of Supervisors and volunteers for their continued support of this community event.

“This year’s map contest had 542 entries from 20 di erent schools throughout the county. Kindergarten to 12th grade judging was based on criteria specific to each grade level and completed by volunteers,” he said.

Supervisors Turnboo and Veerkamp, both alumni of Gold Trail Elementary School both quipped that it seemed like it was just yesterday that they were students at the school, and Supervisor Laine said, tongue in cheek, she couldn’t believe the school they both attended was still

standing. Turnboo, a 1967 graduate of Gold Trail Elementary School and a 1971 graduate of El Dorado High School, said he was amazed by “how much time, e ort and thought” went into the map making, adding that “they’re just beautiful.”

Supervisors Ferrero, Veerkamp, Turnboo and Laine presented awards to 36 award winners followed by a belated 2025 Super Star award to Kylee Stigall and four 2026 Super Star winners. Super Star awards are awarded to students who have placed more than four times.

The Outstanding Achievement Award (school with the most winners) went to Camino Polytechnic with seven winners and the School Spirit Award (school with the most entries) went to Northside School for 105 entries. The first place winning maps will be on display at the El Dorado County Fair in June.

Contest winners

Kindergarten:

• First place: David Lopez, Latrobe Elementary

• Second place: Emery Randall, Camino Polytechnic

• Third place: Jack Lerza, Latrobe Elementary

First grade:

• First place: Opal

Grano, Camino Polytechnic

• Second place: Victoria Mavy, American River Charter

• Third place: Violet Lisonbee, American River Charter

Second grade:

• First place: Riley Randall, Camino Polytechnic

• Second place (tie): Fox Newman, Camino Polytechnic, and Addison Pease, Camino Elementary

• Third place: Wesley Aston, Latrobe Elementary

Third grade:

• First place: Kornelia Dillman, Sutter’s Mill Elementary

• Second place: Wyatt Balla, Sutter’s Mill Elementary

• Third place: Noemi

Elementary

Fourth grade:

• First place: Emelia Romanowsky, Northside Elementary

• Second place: Whitnee Stanhope, Northside Elementary

• Third place: Malkai Powell, Camino Polytechnic

Fifth grade:

• First place: Mila Gomez, Gold Trail Elementary School

• Second place: Jocelyn Brown,

• Third place: Evelyn Wagner,

Food co-op purchases building

Thanks to community-powered capital campaign

The Placerville Food Co-op at 535 Placerville Drive in Placerville, a community-owned natural foods grocery store that has served the region for more than 15 years, has o cially purchased the building it has occupied since opening in 2011.

The $1.39 million acquisition marks a historic milestone for the co-op and its 2,506 member-owners, securing the store’s location and ensuring long-term stability for the community.

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Be honest and empathetic

Listen actively | Provide information

Reassure their independence

Most importantly, take it stepby-step. Frame the conversation as the beginning of an ongoing discussion, rather than a nal decision. is allows time for adjustment and further exploration together.

Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care Ponté Palmero can help get the conversation started.

Since its founding, the co-op has operated under lease agreements. Now, for the first time, the building belongs to the community that has supported it. The purchase was made possible through a combination of member-driven fundraising and institutional financing. The remaining 90% of the purchase price is financed through River Valley Community Bank and the Local Enterprise Assistance Fund.

“I am so impressed with the successes of our store and our community,” said General Manager Jacob Mingle. “Once again, we have risen to the occasion. To raise more than $150,000 in 3 1/2 months is so exciting, and it proves our strength and resilience.”

Mingle added that the campaign’s success exceeded expectations. “With such a successful capital campaign, we not only raised enough money for the down payment on the building, we also raised enough for a muchneeded new roof.”

The co-op’s capital campaign raised more than $160,000 across multiple channels, including an equity drive that brought in 76 new members, support from the El Dorado Community Foundation,

a donor-advised fund and a block party event in just a few months.

The funds covered the required 10% down payment, closing costs, inspections, escrow fees and additional unforeseen expenses.

After administrative fees, the El Dorado Community Foundation disbursement totaled more than $111,000, bringing the campaign’s net total to $155,600.

The campaign’s success reflects the deep community investment in the co-op’s future.

“We raised the necessary funds for the down payment to buy the building, our building,” Mingle said. “Pulling together $160,000 in just a few months has been an incredible display of generosity, belief, community resilience and principles in action for the greater good of many. Now we can not only say that we own a grocery store with 2,506 of our friends, but also that we own a building with 2,506 of our friends.”

The co-op extended special thanks to the El Dorado Community Foundation, Noël

Robinson, co-op marketing director and the entire Placerville Food Co-op sta and board of directors, led by Mingle, for their e orts throughout the campaign. Gratitude was also extended to every member, donor and volunteer who contributed time, money and energy to make the milestone a reality. The Placerville Food Co-op is a communityowned natural foods grocery store that has served the Placerville region for more than 15 years. With 2,506 member-owners, the co-op is committed to providing quality local natural and organic products while fostering a healthy, resilient local community.

Discover May Makers in Old Sac

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

SACRAMENTO

— This May, Old Sacramento Waterfront invites locals and visitors to explore “May Makers,” a monthlong celebration of craftsmanship, creativity and community.

Highlighting handmade, locally made and fair-trade goods, this districtwide promotion encourages guests to shop small, discover one-of-a-kind

May Makers include:

• Atrium 916: Paint and personalize a reusable canvas tote

• Ecojoyous: “Mother of Makers” upcycled goods pop-up

• Emma’s Tamales: Complimentary freshbrewed hibiscus tastings

finds and connect with the makers behind the products that define the district. May Makers is the perfect opportunity to find something truly unique, whether shoppers are looking for a Mother’s Day gift, a spring graduation present or a thoughtful token for teacher appreciation. Through May 31, participating businesses will feature artisanmade goods, locally crafted products and interactive experiences, from handmade art and textiles to small-batch beverages and custom keepsakes. May Makers shines a spotlight on the creativity and craftsmanship that make Old Sacramento Waterfront a hub for unique, independently made goods.

• Hello Sunshine Sac Collective: Shop locally handmade goods and artworks

• Ink and Image: Shop locally designed, made and printedgifts and souvenirs

• Threadeco: In-house designer showcase featuring hand-painted, upcycled bags

• McGee’s Old Time Photo: Vintage-style photo sessions with in-house prints • Artists’ Collaborative Gallery: “Garden to Greeting”

CALIFORNIA RAMBLING

East Brother Light Station with love

Barbara L. Steinberg Special to the Mountain Democrat

At last, after decades of dreaming, this bucket-list item is crossed o . Celebrating our fifth wedding anniversary, a two-night stay was the perfect gift. We had no idea what to expect. We can honestly say it was more than we ever imagined. This one-of-a-kind bed-and-breakfast inn is accessible only by boat from Point San Pablo Harbor. Open year-round, access is occasionally unavailable because of weather, tides and power outages.

Panoramic vistas from East Brother Light Station include sweeping views of the strait separating San Francisco and San Pablo bays, the San Rafael Bridge, the San Francisco skyline and Marin, Contra Costa and San Francisco counties. Across the way, separated by a narrow strait, is West Brother Island, East Brother’s sibling. Passing freighters and ferries are part of the magic. The tides were in our favor; boat trips to and from the island were comfortable. High tides and rough conditions can prevent passage from the mainland to East Brother, in which case reservations might be canceled. Guests are told this going in; fingers crossed is always important. We enjoyed perfect autumn weather, an absolute stroke of luck.

Innkeepers Danielle and Rae, who were seven months into the role, were incredible hosts, tour guides, chefs and comics. We were the only guests who stayed two nights and were pleased we opted for the continued solitude and starry skies. From our second-story room, we relished the beautiful view of West Brother Island and the raucous comings and goings of island birds. Delicious breakfasts, happy hours and dinners provided ample sustenance. A small communal refrigerator stores snacks and beverages that lodgers are welcome to bring. We enjoyed the company of other guests, many Bay Area locals and some from San Diego and Illinois. If you are a wildlife and nature lover, put this at the top of your list. Not only a wide range of birds but also harbor seals, sea lions and harbor porpoises were seen during our visit. Maintenance at East Brother is a herculean task. The biggest challenge right now is raising $700,000 to replace the gangway and pier platform where guests disembark and embark. The EBLS nonprofit also has a new program collaborating with organizations serving young people and underserved communities. In hopes of securing more grants for island repairs, these trips will be at no cost to partners. Otherwise, the island is available only to guests.

Although the bed-and-breakfast provides binoculars, it is best to bring your own if you have a good pair. However, many birds and mammals are easily visible without binoculars. The island is home to Anna’s hummingbirds, Heermann’s gulls, western gulls, elegant terns, black phoebes, yellow-rumped warblers, house finches, black oystercatchers and common ravens. Nearby West Brother Island is a rookery for brown pelicans, double-crested cormorants, Brandt’s cormorants and gull species. Turkey vultures and wild turkeys are also seasonal visitors. Mammals observed in the surrounding waters include harbor seals, sea lions and harbor porpoises. Historically, all lighthouses, including East Brother, had permanent residents. There was no such thing as commuting to the lighthouse. When whale oil and kerosene were used, keepers had to trim the wick every two hours, so the work was nonstop. Supplies were delivered, but rainwater was harvested and used to create steam for the foghorn. There was no electricity until 1934, when East Brother had a submarine cable installed to provide mainland power, replacing kerosene lamps. The operational foghorn at East Brother Light Station is now an electronic, solar-powered device that replaced the historical, highmaintenance diaphone system. The original mechanical 1920s-era dieselpowered air compressor system is no longer the o cial foghorn but is typically demonstrated for guests. Be sure to cover your ears. The lighthouse is still a functioning aid to navigation, but the Fresnel lens has been replaced by a modern LED light.

Today, the island is managed by innkeepers who make at least a twoyear commitment to serve. A tour and history of the island are provided to all visitors. The three-quarters of an acre provides little room to roam but still o ers ample opportunity to walk or simply breathe.

Side note: Point San Pablo Harbor is a destination unto itself, o ering food, music, views of the bay and an eclectic collection of interactive art from Burning Man.

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Dehydrating your herbs

Another El Dorado County Fair is soon upon us. Are you entering a home-canned product? Take a look at the fair book for the necessary requirements, as there are a few changes. Your hearty perennial herb garden should be recovering and rebounding from the winter by now. How about dehydrating some of those and entering them in the county fair? Or create a mix of several dried herbs for a special blend — and yes, enter that into the county fair. Do you have lavender flowers blooming? Use some of those fresh, dried herbs to make a batch of

Herbs de Provence. No herb garden? No problem. You can likely find fresh herbs at your local grocery store. Clean your countertops. Rinse those fresh herbs under running water to remove insects and dirt. Use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture, or use several layers of paper towels to gently pat your herbs as dry as possible. Lay them

in a single layer on dehydrator trays. The flavor of herbs comes from the oils in the cell walls of the plants. Leaves, flowers, stems and seeds can all be dehydrated. It takes heat, low humidity and airflow to dehydrate herbs. Set your dehydrator between 95 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Herbs are sufficiently dry when leaves are crisp and crumble easily between your fingers. There’s one more step in the dehydration process to destroy any insects or eggs that may remain on your dried herbs: Freeze your herbs at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 48 hours. Date and label your herbs. Store them in a cool, dry, dark place away from the stove and

sink (yes, even though that’s where you use them most). Most dried herbs, if stored properly, will keep well for up to a year. Use your nose to judge whether your herbs are still flavorful — does your basil, for instance, still smell fresh? Whole herbs will retain their flavor longer.

If you’re used to cooking with fresh herbs and worry about substituting dried, a general rule of thumb is 1 tablespoon of fresh herb equals 1 teaspoon of dried herb, or 1/4 teaspoon of powdered herb. Go forth and dehydrate some herbs. Be brave. Enter some quarter-pint jars in the county fair.

For more information about UC Master

Gardener classes, events and garden resources visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu.

For garden hours and activity information for the Sherwood Demonstration Garden visit ucanr. edu/sites/EDC_ Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden.

Have a gardening

question? Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website or leave a message at (530) 621-5512.

For more information about UC Master Food Preserver classes, events and food preserving resources visit ucanr. edu/site/ucce-masterfood-preservers-centralsierra.

Pairing series underway

Markham students turn recycled materials into inspiring art

arkham Middle School

cross-curricular project inspired by the novel “The 7th Most Important Thing” by Shelley Pearsall. After reading the book, students were challenged to create original art pieces using only recycled materials, reflecting the story’s themes of seeing value in overlooked objects and people. Students applied a variety of hands-on skills during the process, including construction techniques, cardboard design, welding and collaborative teamwork. The project allowed them to combine creativity with problem-solving and craftsmanship.

Maps

Sixth grade:

Continued from B1

• First place: Jasper Johnson, Gold Trail Elementary School

• Second place: Dezzi Pace, Mountain Creek Middle School

• Third place: Grant Seckington, Gold Trail Union School

Seventh grade:

• First place: Vibha Sanu, Valley View Charter Montessori

• Second place: Madison Ritchie, Miller’s Hill School

• Third place: Chloe Ozobiani, Camerado Middle School

Eighth grade:

• First place: Alice Tien, Miller’s Hill School

• Second place: Jacob Neal, Gold Trail Elementary School

• Third place: Isaac Abbott, Gold Trail Elementary School

Ninth grade (one entry):

• First place: Joseph Lisonbee, American River Charter

10th grade:

• First place: Elissa Ulrich, Oak Ridge High School

• Second place: Sami Thakur, Oak Ridge High School

11th grade:

• First place: Priya Abbott, El Dorado High School

• Second place: Adelle Lisonbee, American River Charter

Several outstanding pieces were displayed in downtown Placerville businesses, which generously donated space to showcase the students’ work. These businesses included Lofty Lou’s, Placerville Art Gallery, Volution Gallery and Placerville Public House. Markham sta expressed gratitude for supporting these young artists. Markham is also grateful to the Crocker Art Museum for donating museum passes to the project’s winners.

12th grade (one entry):

• First place: Joleen Berindei, Oak Ridge High School

Open category (all grades):

• First place: Delilah Grouber, Camino Elementary

• Second place:

“We are very proud of our students’ creativity, e ort, and collaboration throughout this meaningful project,” said Diane Schmidt, seventh grade English teacher at Markham. All student artwork was displayed at Markham Middle School’s open house.

Esther Shank, Camino Polytechnic

2025 Super Stars (correction):

• Kylee Stigall

2026 Super Stars:

• Grant Seckington

• Isaac Abbott

• Jacob Neal

• Joleen Berindei

Marshall announced it has been recognized by multiple national organizations for its commitment to the health and well-being of the region’s older adults. These honors highlight the dedication of Marshall’s physicians, nurses and care teams to delivering safe, individualized, high-quality care for older adults in the community and to

planning for the region’s future needs.

In early 2026, Marshall was named an Age-Friendly Health System with “Committed to Care Excellence (Level 2)” recognition. The Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative — led by The John A. Hartford Foundation and Institute for Healthcare Improvement, in partnership with the American Hospital Association and the Catholic Health Association of the United States — recognizes

health systems that focus care around the “4Ms”: What Matters, Medication, Mentation and Mobility. The 4Ms are an evidence-based framework designed to deliver age-friendly care that aligns with older adults’ goals, manages medications safely, supports brain health and maintains function.

Marshall’s emergency department has earned Level 3 Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation from the American College of Emergency Physicians, in collaboration with The Gary and Mary West Health Institute and The John A. Hartford Foundation. The designation recognizes hospitals nationwide that meet evidencebased best practices for providing specialized emergency care to older adults.

“As we age, our health care needs become more complex,” said Siri Nelson, Marshall’s president and CEO. “Older adults deserve care that is not only clinically excellent but also compassionate, respectful and tailored to the unique needs that come with

com.

aging. These recent recognitions reflect the work happening across Marshall to ensure that our senior patients receive an elevated care experience close to home, helping them achieve the highest possible level of health and well-being.”

According to the California Department of Aging, more than onethird of El Dorado County residents are age 60 or older, with 20% of those living alone. By 2060, it is estimated that one in four Americans will be 65 or older. As the largest health care provider — and the only emergency department — serving residents of the county’s western slope, Marshall prioritizes care for older adults. Based on findings from its 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment, Marshall identified several significant health needs, including access to care, coordination of care for chronic conditions and improving health outcomes in vulnerable populations, each with a component tied to the county’s older adult demographic. Learn more at marshallmedical.org.

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.

to 1 p.m. shine only Interested vendors should res. erve space early at edcfair. org/home/swap-meets. 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.

Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode presents The Paw Brigade celebrating the future expansion plans for Animal Outreach from 1-6 p.m. and 875 Embarcadero Dr 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.

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.

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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 tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org. El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents East of the Golden Gate, a new temporary exhibit at the Fountain & Tallman Museum through May 8. 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.

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.

The Atrium Gallery EDH will host Spring Studio, an artists exhibition featuring the works of Volha Narita-Johnson and Jenny Huang, through May 17. Learn more at edhtowncenter.com.