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California residents will see a wide-ranging slate of new laws take effect in 2026, reshaping workplace rules, healthcare costs, consumer protections, public safety and school policies. Among the most significant updates are expanded pay equity protections, new employer notice requirements, a statewide minimum wage increase and limits on insulin costs. Other measures address used car purchases, police use of face coverings, school policies and traffic safety.

Employment and labor Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene

Physical therapist Dr. Kimi Reid, right, monitors polio survivor Diane Marchesi, 74, of El Dorado Hills as she prepares to walk an obstacle course while wearing a harness connected to the new ZeroG 3D Rehabilitation System, which was unveiled at Marshall Center for Sports Rehabilitation and Active Living in El Dorado Hills earlier this month.

LIGHTEN UP

Marshall unveils zero-gravity system Shelly Thorene

the foundation by Robert and Star Pepper. Staff writer “When we first learned he Marshall about Marshall, we were Foundation for impressed with the staff and Community Health the culture of service and unveiled its new ZeroG 3D innovation that comes from robotic rehabilitation system the most senior leadership,” at an invitation-only event said the Peppers. “Helping at the Center for Sports to bring this equipment to Rehabilitation and Active Marshall was an opportunity Living in El Dorado Hills. to enhance the health and The robotic therapy device well-being of people in El utilizes an overhead harness Dorado County and beyond. that safely supports patients When you see the face of as they practice walking, someone who has been balance, mobility and daily impacted, who has been tasks. able to push themselves to The Aretech’s ZeroG 3D the limit in their recovery is the world’s first threebecause of the difference dimensional body-weight the ZeroG makes ... it puts a support system that supports smile on our faces.” a patient up to 450 pounds The ceiling-mounted El Dorado County District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero, and allows unrestricted right, tries out the new ZeroG 3D rehabilitation system device consists of metal movement within an area frame work upon which sits with the help of Dr. Ryan Ebersole of up to 500 square feet. a robotic device that controls The device is the first of its kind in use west of Salt a harness worn by the patient. Doctor of Physical Lake City, according to Marshall officials, and its purchase was made possible by a generous gift to ■ See ZEROG, page A9

PLACE ADDRESS LABEL HERE

Pay transparency (SB 642) — California’s Pay Equity Enforcement Act expands existing pay transparency rules by broadening how compensation is defined and strengthening protections against wage discrimination. Employers with 15 or more workers must continue to list pay scales in job postings and now must also provide a good-faith estimate of expected compensation. The law extends the statute of limitations and ■ See LAWS, page A5

Quick response rescues couple’s Christmas Shelly Thorene Staff writer

A Christmas crash has a happy ending for a couple and their dogs due to the valiant efforts of U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Ruben Tala and other helpful motorists. At around 8:24 a.m. on Dec. 25 a vehicle traveling eastbound on Highway 50 left the roadway east of the 39 milestone marker and landed on its side dangerously close to a steep embankment. Tala was traveling through the snowy conditions with his family from Travis Air Force Base when he witnessed the SUV lose control. Tala pulled over and attempted to stabilize the vehicle; he was joined by other passing motorists who joined in to rescue the couple inside the vehicle and their two dogs. ■ See RESCUE, page A9

Late night fire razes EDH home Noel Stack Editor

Photo courtesy of EDH Fire

A fire destroyed an El Dorado Hills home Christmas night. Just after midnight firefighters responded to the blaze at a two-story, approximately 3,000-square-foot single family residence in the 200 block of Asuncion Court in the Francisco Oaks neighborhood. El Dorado Hills firefighters, along with Cal Fire/Cameron Park, Folsom, Rescue and El Dorado County firefighters, arrived on scene to find heavy flames venting through a majority of the home’s roof, according ■ See FIRE, page A3

Flames burst through the roof of an EDH home on Dec. 26.

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ESSENTIALS OBITUARIES Obituaries on this page are written and paid for by the families or funeral homes. They are edited minimally by the Mountain Democrat. To submit an obituary, call (530) 622-1255, e-mail obits@mtdemocrat.net, fax (530) 344-5092, or visit mtdemocrat.com under “Submission Forms” at the bottom of the website. Include contact information with all submissions.

Martha Rosalie “Sally” Falk Pearce May 28, 1938 – Dec. 19, 2025

Sally Pearce, 87, of El Dorado Hills, California, passed away on December 19, 2025, in Placerville, California, after being briefly hospitalized for an illness. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Sally was adopted by her parents, Harry N. and Elizabeth M. Falk. She and her brother Steve joined their sister Antonie in Glenview, Illinois. When she was a young teen, the family moved to Southern California where Sally attended Sacred Heart Academy and Chadwick School. She and her late former husband, Paul Pearce, raised their family in Orange County, California. Sally took up rock climbing when she was in her thirties. After training in Yosemite, she summited Half Dome via the Snake Dike route and climbed often in Tahquitz and Joshua Tree. For a decade, she ran a retail mountaineering business in Laguna Beach, California. Sally and her partner, Farley, moved north to the Placerville area in the early 1980s and their lovely home, full of art and warmth, was a favorite destination for many traveling friends and family. A stunning genealogy discovery in recent years dramatically expanded Sally’s family, bringing three beloved ‘new’ siblings into her life: twins Diana and the late Diane, along with another brother, Jerome, and many treasured new nieces and nephews. Playful, irreverent, and generous, Sally made every occasion lighthearted and memorable. Kids in town may have seen her drive by the school bus in her Mini Cooper wearing Groucho glasses, which she kept handy in the center console. She entertained us with stories of her Jeep trips to the Rubicon Trail where you could spot her tent by the flamingo out front and the rubber chicken on the clothesline. Sally’s legendary excursions with her First, Second and Third Wives Club and her annual trips to Mexico were frequent highlights. She loved a good pun and a costume party and we expect many photos of her to surface, no doubt to the occasional amused chagrin of her children. Above all, she loved to laugh. Sally is survived by her children, Cynthia Pearce, Keith (Tress) Pearce and Barbara Pearce; sister, Diana Granlund; sister-in-law, Barbara Feick (late James); her brothers, Stephen (Sue) Falk and Jerome (Lynne) Saluzzo; her grandchildren, Grant (Katie) Pearce, Drew Pearce, Austin Pearce, Jonathon Stetter and Nicholas (Laura) Stetter; five greatgrandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her partner, Farley F. Rice; her sisters, Antonie Falk and Diane Lanctot; and her former husband, Paul G. Pearce. She leaves behind a treasured circle of devoted friends who share our heartbreak and our solace in the memories we have of this remarkable, spirited, one-of-a-kind woman. A celebration of Sally’s life will take place in the spring. Whether a step, half or full, First or second or twice removed, All now united in love great and grand, Sheltered under the same family tree.

Walter G. Klinefelter

Oct. 28, 1938 – Dec. 11, 2025

Walter G. Klinefelter (Wally) of Kerrville passed away on December 11, 2025 after a heroic battle with AML, MDS and Alzheimer’s. Wally was born on October 28, 1938, to Walter Klinefelter and Bertha Bisjak in St. Paul, Minnesota. He married Katherine Miller in 1957 before being deployed with the United States Navy. Upon his honorable discharge following his final assignment aboard the USS Mount McKinley (AGC7) he returned to his growing family in 1961. He curated a career as a lifelong salesman beginning with McDonald’s in the early years then Foodmaker Industries which reunited him with San Diego where he was once stationed. After Foodmaker, he spent several years restoring old cars with then wife June and son Timothy in the southern California area before moving to the foothills in Northern California. This led to the highlight of his professional life as the proud owner of what began as the Diamond K and grew into Diggins Restaurant. He served up a healthy dose of companionship, laughter & joy to the local community who stopped by for his ever present smile & happy demeanor. He served a mean cup of coffee and the best breakfast in town. Wally had a lifelong love for the Arts, Community, Old cars, Music, and Travel. He was an especially snazzy dancer, prancing around at every possible opportunity. In his later years, Walter retired to Kerrville, TX where he spent his final precious years with his lovely companion, Jan Stutts, enjoying long drives, great food, virtual travel and lots of laughter. He is preceded in death by his parents, the mother of his six children, Katherine “Kathy”, sister Bert Ann “Snooky” and husband Fred Payne, brothers James and Charles, and son Paul Walter. He is survived by his youngest brother William “Uncle Bill” and Kathy, children Timothy of San Diego, Gregory, Kathryn, Annie & Cristian of Minnesota, Grandchildren Holly, Tony (Holly), Alexander (Melissa), Samantha (Stanley), Matthew (Mesa), Kalina (Ruby) and many great grandchildren. Walt also leaves behind a multitude of cherished friendships in the Center Point/Rio Robles communities in Texas, as well as many in Placerville, CA and especially his dearest friend, Margot Stengel of Monterey.

Virner L. Nickell

Kathleen “Kay” Murdock

Virner L. Nickell, 83, passed peacefully in his sleep, December 20th, 2025. Born in 1942, Virn spent his life in the Sierra Nevada foothills, as a general contractor and avid racing fan. Survived by his loving wife, Lue, of 59 years, daughter Corina, son-in-law Tim, 3 granddaughters, a grandson-in-law and 2 great grandchildren. He loved racing cars with his daughter and sharing his passions with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Virn was well known for his tradesmen skills within his community and well-loved for his good humor by everyone he met. An informal memorial will be held Saturday, Jan. 3rd, contact Corina at 530-391-0146 for more information. Please refrain from reaching out to Lue at this time. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Ranch animal sanctuary (www.AtTheRanch.org) in Virn’s name.

In loving memory of Kathleen “Kay” Murdock. She passed away peacefully at Marshall Hospital surrounded by family, on December 10, 2025 at the age of 98. Kay was born in Los Angeles, CA to Gladys and Ernest King. Having moved to Sacramento in 1935, Kay attended school and graduated from Sacramento High School in1945. She attended U. C. Berkeley and graduated in 1949. She was a member of Delta Zeta National Sorority. She remembers her college days living in the Delta Zeta House with great affection. Kay married Walter Adam in 1949, right after they graduated from Berkeley. They had two girls, Cheryl and Susan. After living in southern California (Long Beach and Hermosa Beach) for many years, Kay and Walt retired to Placerville in 1981 and built their own home. Kay became active with the El Dorado County Historical Society and both museums, the El Dorado County Museum and the Fountain & Tallman Museum. She was a docent for 37 years, including doing all the volunteers scheduling. She said she enjoyed every minute promoting our great history to visitors from around the world! Kay was also active in Placerville Shakespeare Club, Native Daughters of the Golden West and Eastern Star where she met Walter Murdock. Kay and Walt were Worthy Matron and Worthy Patron in 1996. She was also in charge of the Elder Hostel Program in Placerville for several years. Kay is survived by her daughters Susan Adam, Cheryl Johnson and fiancé Craig White, granddaughter Shawna Murawski and husband Nathen Murawski, and great grandson Asher Murawski. She was the most loving and wonderful mother, grandmother, great grandmother and wife. Kay will be greatly missed by family, many friends and her dear neighbors. She said “I have lived a long and happy life!” There will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the El Dorado County Historical Society, 524 Main St., Placerville, CA, 95667 or EDCHS.org.

Oct. 1, 1942 – Dec. 20, 2025

Gary Ray “Rat” Rasmussen

Sept. 23, 1948 - Oct. 19, 2025

It is with an aching heart and unending love that I, Nita Rasmussen, share the news of the passing of my beloved husband, Gary Ray Rasmussen. Gary was born on September 23, 1948, in Willits, California, and passed away October 19, 2025, in Boise, Idaho. Gary was a beacon of compassionate light who touched countless lives with his radiant spirit. His love and dedication to his family, his witty charm, and his unwavering strength were the hallmarks of his character. Gary was a dedicated Lead Fireman at MichiganCal Lumber, In Camino, CA, before his retirement in 1992. His love for craftsmanship showed, as he poured his heart into hobbies like hot rods and woodworking. He was a member of the Hangmen of Northern California Car Club, the Elks and the Crescent City Car Club, and he lived in several places, including Placerville and Crescent City, CA, before making his home in Homedale, Idaho. His most treasured times were spent fishing and sharing precious moments with our family, especially his great-grandchildren. Gary courageously battled five different types of cancer, always maintaining an optimistic outlook, always reminding us that someone else had it worse. He was a rock, a man of profound faith and resilience. Gary was a loving father to our daughters, Kari Clark and Shannon Walden, and always had time for a listening ear and good advice, and a doting grandfather to Ashley Maxwell (Tyler), Dane Jensen (Staci), Tyler Samford (Ariana), Shyanne Walden, and Paul Walden, Jr. (Shyliea). He was also blessed with 11 Great-grandchildren, many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Nieces, Nephews and way too many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Wilbur Rasmussen, his mother, Lauretta Pruitt, his sister, Judy Hyatt, his brother, Ronald Pruitt and great-grandson, Mitchell. All who knew Gary will remember his love, his laughter and his spirit. As it says in the Bible, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13) And love, Gary had in abundance. How Gary became known as “Rat:” Written by Mike Speegle: Back in the day when Gary, myself, and some of the guys who loved cars, got together and started a car club. We all had Hot Rods; some were fast, some were faster, and some were super-fast. Gary always had a super-fast car. His engine of choice was the 427 Big Block “Rat” Chevrolet. Gary had a few of those Rat motor cars. They were faster than “greased lightening”. Holding the title of having the fastest car in town, Gary was called into the service when the Viet Nam war broke out. At that time, he asked if I would take care of his 1966 Chevelle until he came home. I said “gladly”. I cleaned that car almost every weekend. One day I was taking the Chevelle to the car wash in our hometown of Placerville. When I came around a corner, there were two cars taking up both lanes of the freeway. One was a camaro and the other, an Oldsmobile 442. All of a sudden an arm popped out of the passenger window of the Camaro, counted to three, dropped his arm and the race was on. The Camaro jumped the 442 by 3 car lengths. Well, I was in a hurry, so I geared down and nailed it and that “Rat” motor came alive!!! I passed the 442 then the Camaro until they were both out of sight. After that day, the town was talking about the silver Chevelle with the crazy “Rat” motor. At the next car club meeting, one of the members referred to Gary as “Rat” and his crazy Chevelle. I love you Rat and I am going to miss you, brother.

Claire “Birdie” Costa

June 28, 1946 – Dec. 17, 2025

Claire “Birdie” Costa, 79, passed away peacefully at home on December 17, 2025, surrounded by love, after a brave journey with brain cancer. She was born in Phoenix, Arizona, in 1946, the sixth of eight children. Birdie’s faith guided her life. As a devout Catholic, she believed deeply in helping others and lived that belief through quiet acts of service and boundless generosity. Whether through a hug, a kind word, or simply listening, Birdie made people feel seen and cared for. She is survived by her devoted husband, Donald Costa; her children Bill, Bob, Debbie, Nancy, and DeeDee; eleven grandchildren; and five greatgrandchildren, who were a constant source of joy in her life. There was a Memorial Service Mass on December 29, at 11am at St. Patrick Church, 3109 Sacramento St, Placerville.

Aug. 17, 1927 – Dec. 10, 2025

Kay Marie Kilbourne

June 24,1957 – Nov 26, 2025

Kay Marie Kilbourne passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, in her Placerville home following her courageous and graceful twoyear battle with glioblastoma brain cancer at the age of 68. Kay was born in Astoria, Oregon, to parents Patricia and Darrell Greenlee. The family relocated to West Linn, OR, and Kay attended Sunset Primary School, West Linn High School, and studied piano at Marylhurst School. After high school, Kay moved to Germany with her then-husband, who was in the Air Force. She later settled in the Sacramento area, where she met her husband, Rob. Kay and her family moved to Placerville in 1995, where she lived the remainder of her life. She was employed as a law office manager and legal secretary for most of her career, primarily in the field of workers’ compensation law, and enjoyed helping clients with their legal matters. Kay was devoted to her family and friends. She served as a Girl Scout troop leader, middle school cheerleading coach, and late-night project creator. Kay was unfailingly kind. She was exceptionally resilient in her mindset and organized in her daily life, making those around her feel well taken care of and supported unconditionally. She especially loved to show up for and support her children and grandchildren. Whenever possible, she’d enthusiastically attend performances, games, or Grandparents Day. Kay also had deep and lasting friendships throughout her adulthood, some of whom affectionately are referred to as “the coven.” Throughout her life, she cherished countless joyful and laughter-filled “coven” and family gatherings. Kay was a lifelong lover of horses and avid horseback rider, taking many trail rides, camping, and packing trips over the years. Later in life, she loved to go on bike rides with her husband, Rob. Quick-witted and sharp, she was a formidable opponent for any card or board game. She was a voracious reader throughout her life, enjoying fantasy and science fiction novels in particular. Kay was preceded in death by her infant son, Jonathan; mother, Patricia; and father, Darrell. Kay is survived by her husband of thirty-eight years, Rob; children: Patricia Noel Escobar and Willa Amanda Kilbourne; her daughter-in-law, Laina Yoswein; her three grandchildren: Kaylee Staggers, Hunter Staggers, and Tyler Escobar; her brothers: Doug Greenlee, Gary Greenlee (Debbie), and Jeff Greenlee; brother-in-law, Pete Kilbourne (Kathryn); and many nieces and nephews and their children. She also leaves behind her dog, Kami, and horse, Dixie. A remembrance and celebration of life is scheduled for January 10th, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Sierra Vista Winery at 4560 Cabernet Way in Placerville. Internment will take place at Madronia Cemetery in Saratoga at a later date. Donations in her honor are welcome to be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation or to UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, where Kay received compassionate and excellent care.

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Mountain Democrat

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Jeepers! What a crash Tossed rock terrifies driver Mountain Democrat staff

Photo by Pat Dollins

A Jeep Cherokee and a Subway sandwich shop both sustained major damage after a woman drove into the eatery at 4181 Pleasant Valley Road around 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 27. No injuries were reported. The California Highway Patrol confirmed drugs and alcohol were not a factor in the crash.

Board of Supervisors changes public comment procedures News release On Nov. 18, the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved updates to the regular meeting procedures to improve overall operational efficiency and increased ease and convenience for public participation. These changes will begin on Jan. 6 and include the following: The chief administrative officer will announce any revisions to the published agenda at the beginning of the meeting, rather than requiring a board action for adoption of the agenda. The published agenda itself will better highlight all the ways the public can view, attend and participate in meetings and the clerk of the board will read it into the record at the beginning of the meeting and Open Forum.

Public comment Public comment on closed session items will now be taken at the same time as public comment on the

consent calendar. This adjustment is intended to improve meeting flow and allow the board to more seamlessly recess into closed session by gathering all public comment on every closed session item rather than each time it adjourns to closed session throughout the day. Additionally, public comment for all remaining agenda items (excluding noticed public hearings) will be taken in one public comment period following consideration of the consent calendar. This new structure provides greater efficiency and consideration of the public’s time, allowing citizens to arrive in the morning to provide any public comments — whether regarding closed session, consent calendar or regular agenda items — without needing to wait hours for individual items to be called later in the day (unless it is a noticed public hearing). Open forum will continue to be scheduled at 1 p.m. as the opportunity for members of the ■ See PROCEDURES, page A9

PLACERVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME LOG The following was taken from PPD reports:

1:38 p.m. Burglary was reported on Clark Street.

Dec. 8

1:45 p.m. Officers booked into jail a person suspected of obstructing a peace officer, possessing unlawful paraphernalia, possessing a controlled substance with two or more priors and violating probation on Bedford Avenue. They were listed in custody in lieu of $20,000 bail.

7:56 a.m. Battery was reported on Woodridge Court. 8:37 a.m. Trespassing was reported on Middletown Road. 8:58 a.m. Trespassing was reported at a cemetery on Cold Springs Road.

Road. 9:23 p.m. Trespassing was reported at an apartment complex on Schnell School Road. 10:45 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Mallard Lane. An arrest was made.

Dec. 12

Dec. 10

10:59 a.m. Petty theft was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive. An arrest was made.

11:35 a.m. Petty theft was reported at a grocery store on Broadway.

2:39 p.m. Battery was reported on Oak Terrace Court.

4:43 p.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

Dec. 13 8:55 a.m. Petty theft was reported on Broadway.

9:05 p.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported at a grocery store in Placerville.

5:02 p.m. Officers booked into jail a person suspected of possessing unlawful paraphernalia and violating probation on Broadway. They were listed in custody.

7:37 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive. An arrest was made.

Dec. 9

Dec. 11

Dec. 14

6:33 p.m. Battery was reported at an apartment complex on Schnell School

4:40 p.m. Battery was reported on Mosquito Road.

1:21 p.m. Officers booked into jail a person suspected of trespassing, possessing unlawful paraphernalia, vandalism, theft, obstructing a peace officer, battery against police officer and bringing drugs or alcohol to jail or prison on Broadway. They were listed in custody in lieu of $45,000 bail.

9:47 a.m. Vandalism was reported at the court on Main Street.

Fire

Continued from A1 to EDH Fire Chief Michael Lilienthal. “At the time of arrival, firefighters were unaware whether any occupants were inside the home and initiated an aggressive interior attack while conducting a primary search,” Lilienthal said. “During search operations, large sections of the roof collapsed, creating hazardous conditions for crews. Firefighters subsequently confirmed that the homeowner and family were not home at the time of the incident.” No injuries were reported. The fire resulted in an estimated property loss of $1,000,000 and its cause remains under investigation.

Dr. Little’s Dental News Presented by Jeffery Little, D.D.S.

ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILDREN TO GET ACQUAINTED One reason why children might be anxious about visiting the dentist is that their first visits may be delayed until a cavity or a tooth extraction becomes necessary. Instead, let’s explore another possibility that not only helps alleviate anxiety but also reduces the likelihood of tooth decay and other potential problems. The American Dental Association recommends that parents schedule their child’s first visit to the dentist within six months of the eruption of his or her first tooth. If this seems a bit early, consider that many babies develop “bottle mouth” (decay of baby teeth) due to drinking sugary liquids. Early education helps put both parents and baby on a healthier track. As a parent, you make decisions all the time about the well-being of your child. Choosing a dentist

is just one of the many important decisions you’ll make. Your child should see the dentist by the time they get their first tooth or turn 1. We emphasize brushing and flossing daily, along with regular oral health checkups. We stress the importance of regular dental checkups. If you would like more information or an appointment, call us. We’re currently accepting new patients. We offer “Tooth Print,” which is an impression of a child’s full mouth. About the size of a small wafer, the impression is given to the parent/guardian for the family album or for ID for a missing child. P.S. A child’s first visit to the dentist can be more about sitting in a fantastic “space chair” that moves up and down and has all kinds of neat equipment than being scared about needles.

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A rock apparently intentionally tossed at a moving vehicle Friday night on Serrano Parkway in El Dorado Hills smashed a windshield and rattled the driver. A concerned parent shared on the El Dorado County Watch Facebook page that her daughter was traveling on the main road at around 11:30 p.m. on Dec. 26 near a pond surrounded by heavy vegetation when something struck her windshield, destroying the glass. “She immediately pulled over — and a man came out of the bushes, began pounding on her passenger-side door, then took off on foot,” the social media post reads. “She was on speaker with her dad at the time, which may have deterred him. “Law enforcement believes a rock was intentionally thrown at her moving vehicle, possibly to disable the car and approach her,” the post continues. “Thankfully, she escaped with minor scratches from the glass, but this could have been far worse.” The parent shared that the individual, which she described as appearing erratic, fled on foot and has not been located. He is described as a tall male in his late 20s or early 30s, thin build with a pale complexion and disheveled black hair. He was wearing a black hoodie, light-colored shorts and black Vans shoes at the time of the incident.

Courtesy photo

A photo posted on social media shows a shattered windshield after an unidentified man allegedly tossed a rock at the vehicle on Serrano Parkway.

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The treatment to increase blood flow utilizes a specialized low-level light therapy (not to be confused with laser therapy) using light emitting diode technology. This technology was originally developed by NASA to assist in increasing blow flow. The low level light therapy is like watering a tree. The light therapy will allow the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal and repair. It’s like adding water to a tree and seeing the roots grow deeper and deeper. The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation. “My feet hurt so bad after sitting I could barely take the first few steps. I have had 11 treatments and no longer feel sharp or shooting pains and most of the tingling is gone. I now have full balance and can walk without pain. As Dr. Mooney explained the treatment is not painful, nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.” – Neuropathy Pain Patient John Mooney, DC at Premier Healthcare will do a neuropathy severity examination to determine the extent of the nerve damage for only $47.

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO LIVE WITH THE PAIN! CALL TODAY! John M. Mooney, D.C. QME 1980 Broadway, Placerville

Call 530-622-3536 NeuropathyPlacerville.com Most major health insurances are accepted, including BCBS, Aetna, Humana, and Medicare.

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Mountain Democrat

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OPINION California Commentary

The California way — High taxes & waste

alifornia’s tax burden is always a hot topic, especially now. With a state budget that is allegedly short of money (fact check: spending discipline is the only thing lacking) and multiple tax hike proposals being discussed for the JON COUPAL 2026 ballot, voters are starting to pay attention to how much government is extracting from their pockets. The state’s tax troubles have resulted in the welldocumented exodus out of California. The sole silver lining has been the high-tech industry which continues to produce prodigious amounts of tax revenue from stock options and capital gains by the very wealthy. But even this source of revenue is now threatened if the “billionaire’s tax” proposal starts to gain traction. With all this focus on taxes it’s easy to forget about another problem infuriating citizens — the sheer amount of government waste. A couple of years ago, a PPIC poll found that nearly half of respondents, 48%, believe the state wastes “a lot” of their tax dollars, 43% said the state wastes “some” and only 8% said the people in charge of the state government “don’t waste very much.” (Apparently, 8% of Californians have no access to media outlets). What caught our attention earlier this month was yet another story about our political leaders demonstrating gross incompetence in handling our tax dollars. In a comprehensive investigative piece Regrettably, in the Sacramento wasting taxpayer Bee, reporter William dollars in California Melhaydo uncovers yet another embarrassing is now an art form. face-plant by state It reminds us of government leadership. After the Camp Fire, Ronald Reagan’s Gov. Gavin Newsom observation that pledged to upgrade California’s antiquated politicians are like 911 emergency response diapers. They need communications to be changed system. Toward that end, “Between 2019 periodically. and 2025, California paid four technology companies over $450 million to build out its Next Generation 911 (NG911) system, a more advanced emergency communication tool that would provide dispatchers with enhanced location services and other ways for the public to communicate with first responder operators.” But the system didn’t work, and the California Office of Emergency Services decided to abandon the project and start over from scratch. Veteran political journalist Dan Walters correctly noted the “governmental landscape is littered with information technology projects that have failed to deliver the promised benefits, have experienced huge cost overruns, or have been abandoned.” It’s not just tech projects that have a history of waste and ineffectiveness. California’s failed “green” projects are not only wasteful, but they also frequently end up hurting the environment.

Letter to the Editor Democracy suffers when public comment is limited EDITOR: ublic comment during the Board of Supervisors meetings is an opportunity for residents to speak directly to their government. It is a core safeguard of our democracy. When that safeguard is weakened, accountability weakens with it. That is exactly what will happen under the new public comment rules approved by the board at the Nov. 18 meeting (Legistar 25-1864), set to take effect on Jan. 6. This change reduces public comment from three minutes per person per agenda item — when the item is being heard — to just three minutes total per person at the beginning of the board meeting. This change fundamentally alters the nature of public participation. Instead of allowing residents to speak thoughtfully on multiple issues, the new structure forces residents to compress concerns, compete for limited time or stay silent altogether. For example: currently, a resident addressing two items would have three minutes each. Under the new rules, that resident would be limited to three minutes combined — a 50% reduction requiring their public comments to be severely curtailed.

Equally troubling, public comments would no longer occur when an agenda item is called. Instead, public comment would be heard at the beginning of the board meeting, before staff presentations and before board discussion. This disconnect separates public input from the moment when decisions are actually deliberated. Residents would be commenting without the benefit of staff explanations or board perspectives, reducing meaningful engagement to speculation rather than informed participation. Here is a summary. The old versus new rules for public comments are: Old rule — Three minutes per agenda item New rule — Three minutes maximum for all departmental items Old rule — Comments heard during agenda item time slot New rule — Comments heard at beginning of the board meeting Old Rule — After presentations, inputs from staff and board comments New rule — Before presentations, inputs from staff and Board comments Residents would also compete for a single, shared window at the start of the board meeting with potential comments affecting housing, public safety, infrastructure and fees, resulting in a ■ See LETTER, page A9

■ See COUPAL, page A8

Guest Column

An election prediction: Republicans will win in 2026

n a Wall Street the case of Bush was Journal interview far from business as earlier this month, usual. The election President Donald followed the terrorist Trump was circumspect attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. regarding his party’s Patriotism was surging, prospects in the 2026 with Bush’s approval congressional elections. peaking at 90%, and Although no one by the 2002 elections it doubts the president’s still was above 60%. supreme confidence Trump’s latest that he is doing the approval rating by STAR PARKER right things for the Gallup is down to 36%. country (“I’ve created But the case of the greatest economy in President Ronald history”), he acknowledged, “that he Reagan shows that, although sticking couldn’t predict if that would translate to principles may create some early turbulence, eventually the right path into political gains for Republicans pays off. next fall.” Reagan’s approval rating, per The party of the sitting president Gallup, was down to 36% in the has picked up congressional seats in second year of his presidency. midterm elections only twice since Currently, per Gallup, the percent World War II: Bill Clinton in 1998 expressing “satisfaction with the way and George W. Bush in 2002. And The Mountain Democrat welcomes letters up to 300 words. Letters may be edited. We reserve the right to edit submissions. Include your name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

Email: editor@ mtdemocrat.net

Today we have historically outsized challenges. It’s obvious that America’s socialists — the Democratic Party — is the wrong address. If we are going to have a future, we need bold, courageous leadership today. things are going” in the country is 23%. In November 1982, at the time of the midterm elections in Reagan’s first term, satisfaction stood at 24%. In those 1982 elections, Democrats picked up one Senate seat and 26 seats in the House. But by the time of the presidential election two years later, November 1984, Reagan’s approval was over 60% and he won the presidential election in a landslide, capturing 49 of 50 states. The state of the economy when Reagan took office in 1981 — doubledigit inflation and double-digit Snail Mail: Letters to the Editor P. O. Box 1088, Placerville 95667

interest rates — was decidedly worse than now. However, the overall challenges that President Trump faces today are, I believe, greater. Today, federal debt stands at almost 100% of GDP. In 1981, it was less than 25%. In 1980, per Statista, 18.4% percent of our babies were born to unmarried women. By 2008, it hit 40%, and it has remained steady since. Per USAFacts, in 1980, the percent of U.S. households headed by a married couple was 60.8%. In 2022, ■ See PARKER, page A8

Main Office: 2889 Ray Lawyer Drive Placerville 95667

mtdemocrat.com Mountain Democrat Wednesday, December 31, 2025 A5

Begin 2026 on the right foot with First Day Hikes California State Parks News release

ACRAMENTO — Step into 2026 on the right foot and on the right trail. California State Parks is inviting outdoor enthusiasts to bring their family and friends to the annual First Day Hikes on Thursday, Jan. 1, to embrace a healthy start and breath in fresh air. As the Golden State continues to celebrate its 175th anniversary of statehood, State Parks is offering over 80 guided hikes at more than 60 of California’s more diverse and iconic parks in the nation. State parks in the Sacramento and Modesto areas will be offering 15 guided hikes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or trying out something new, First Day Hikes offer something for everyone, encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle and an appreciation for nature. Participants can expect scenic views and make new connections as they hike in the mountains or take a stroll through an urban park. The hikes offer varying trail options to accommodate all fitness levels, from leisurely walks to more challenging treks, ensuring everyone can participate.

A perfect start for nature lovers The First Day Hikes interactive webpage (parks.ca.gov/FirstDayHikes) lets you easily search for hikes by park name, region or by clicking directly on the map. Participants are asked to check the website for any additional hikes or cancellations.

Laws

Mountain Democrat file photo

The Monroe Ridge Hike will begin at 10 a.m. at the Gold Discovery Museum in Coloma. At George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area, participants will walk through the riparian and river habitat with a special riparian habitat scavenger hunt. For those wanting a more challenging hike, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma will offer 4-mile hike with views of the Lotus and Coloma Valley.

Featured Sacramento/Modesto area hikes on Jan. 1: • Dos Rios: California’s newest state

park is offering two guided hikes where participants can learn about future park amenities. As you hike, hear from staff and partners discuss what it takes to plan a new state park and how your voice can be heard. Coffee and pan dulce will be provided. • California State Capitol Museum: This leisurely urban walk starts with a bird talk before searching for resident and migratory birds. Binoculars are encouraged for the walk. • Auburn State Recreation Area: The 4.6-mile route will begin in the Native Garden located at the park’s ranger station. Visitors will descend the park access trail to the Western State Trail and ascend about 700 feet via Stagecoach Trail and Manzanita Trail. Friendly dogs on a leash are welcome. The First Day Hikes is a national-led effort by America’s State Parks that encourages individuals and families to experience, with a seasoned guide, the beautiful natural and cultural resources found in the outdoors and inspire them to take advantage of these treasures all year long. America’s State Parks will also ring in nation’s 250th anniversary with 1,000-plus First Day Hikes across the country. If you’re hiking the trails, State Parks and the California Natural Resources Agency recently launched the California Trails Survey — a statewide effort to help share the future of California’s nonmotorized recreational trails — and wants to hear from you. Findings from the survey will help shape regional priorities for trail projects and inform the next updates to the California Recreational Trails Plan.

Plan ahead

standards. The sale or distribution of noncompliant products is prohibited. Rentals of noncompliant devices will be banned starting Jan. 1, 2028. Autonomous vehicles (AB 1777) — Law enforcement officers will be authorized to issue notices of autonomous vehicle noncompliance to manufacturers for traffic violations once DMV regulations are adopted. Beginning July 1, 2026, driverless autonomous vehicles must meet new standards for interacting with first responders, including providing a two-way communication device inside the vehicle.

Paper or ...

A parking fee is required at most parks for the hike. However, if participants have checked out the California State Library Parks Pass or have qualified for the Golden Bear Pass, they can enter for free at participating parks. Parents of fourth graders are invited to download the California State Park Adventure Pass that allows free entrance at 54 participating parks, like Millerton Lake State Recreation Area. Learn more about these free passes at parks.ca.gov/OutdoorsForAll. As with any outing, it is important for all participants to recreate responsibly. Below are helpful tips to stay safe during First Day Hikes and all year long in the outdoors: • Know before you go: Prior to leaving home, check the status of the park you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a backup plan in case your destination is crowded. Check the weather before heading out and stay home if you are sick. • Play it safe: Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. For example, make sure to dress in layers, bring plenty of snacks and water, and wear appropriate hiking shoes. • Leave no trace: Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants. For more safety tips visit parks.ca.gov/ SafetyTips.

Continued from A1

recovery period for pay equity claims and takes effect Jan. 1. Employee rights notices (SB 294) — The Workplace Know Your Rights Act requires employers to provide all current and new employees with a stand-alone written notice outlining key workplace rights. Those include workers’ compensation benefits, protections related to union organizing and constitutional rights during interactions with law enforcement. Employers must provide the notice by Feb. 1, and annually thereafter. The Labor Commissioner must post a template notice by Jan. 1. Minimum wage increase — Under existing state law, California’s minimum wage will rise to $16.90 per hour for all employers on Jan. 1. The increase also raises minimum salary thresholds for certain exempt employees. Public Employment Relations Board expansion (AB 288) — Assembly Bill 288 allows the Public Employment Relations Board to intervene in labor disputes when the National Labor Relations Board does not act. Implementation depends on the outcome of federal preemption challenges and related court timelines.

Health care and consumer rights Insulin cost caps (SB 40) — Beginning Jan. 1, out-of-pocket insulin costs will be capped at $35 for a 30-day supply under state-regulated health plans. The law also bans steptherapy requirements before insulin coverage and requires plans to include at least one formulation of each type of insulin on their formularies. Used car returns (AB 1276) — New consumer protections give used car buyers a three-day window to return a vehicle for a refund under certain conditions. Home healthcare training — Home care aides and home health providers will be required to complete dementia-specific training by 2027, updating workforce standards aimed at improving care for patients with cognitive impairments.

Public safety and education Police mask restrictions (SB 627) — Law enforcement officers will be prohibited from wearing masks or facial coverings while performing enforcement duties, except in limited circumstances. Agencies must adopt written policies governing facial coverings by July 1, 2026. Burglary tools (AB 486) — Possessing a key programming device, key duplicating device or signal extender with intent to commit burglary becomes a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. The law expands existing statutes governing burglary tools. School phone use and restrooms (SB 760) — Public schools must provide at least one gender-neutral restroom accessible during school hours and school-sponsored events beginning

July 1, 2026. The law also introduces new limits on student cellphone use to reduce classroom distractions and support student well-being.

Civil rights and legal updates Sexual assault claims (AB 250) — The law extends through 2027 the window for certain sexual assault survivors to revive civil claims, continuing California’s broader reforms to statutes of limitation. Bias training clarification (SB 303) — Participation in bias awareness or mitigation training, when done in good faith, is clarified as not constituting unlawful discrimination.

Transportation and traffic safety Electric bicycle equipment (AB 544) — Electric bicycles must be equipped with a red reflector or a solid or flashing red rear light with a built-in reflector during all hours of operation, not just after dark. The law also allows a California Highway Patrol-developed online safety course to satisfy training requirements for minors cited for helmet violations. Off-highway electric motorcycles (SB 586) — The bill defines off-highway electric motorcycles, or eMotos, and classifies them as off-highway motor vehicles subject to existing rules, including helmet requirements and DMV-issued identification for unregistered vehicles. School zone speed limits (AB 382) — Local governments may reduce school zone speed limits from 25 mph to 20 mph through Jan. 1, 2031. After that date, speed limits will automatically drop to 20 mph where proper signage is posted. Work zone speed safety pilot (AB 289) — Caltrans is authorized to establish a work zone speed safety system pilot program using radar or laser systems to detect speeding and photograph license plates. Citations will be issued to registered vehicle owners, with review and appeal procedures required. Speed limit reductions (AB 1014) — Caltrans may reduce highway speed limits by up to 5 mph. Warning citations are required during the first 30 days after a reduction takes effect. Vehicle impoundment (AB 875) — Peace officers may impound for at least 48 hours certain electric vehicles operated by unlicensed drivers if the vehicle exceeds 20 mph and does not meet the definition of an electric bicycle. The law also applies to Class 3 electric bicycles operated by riders younger than 16.

Laws passed in 2024, effective in 2026 Electric bicycles and lithium-ion batteries (SB 1271) — Beginning Jan. 1, electric bicycles, powered mobility devices and related lithiumion batteries must meet accredited laboratory testing and labeling

SB 1053 — Restrictions are in place on the types of bags that may be distributed at the point of sale by most grocery stores, retail stores with a pharmacy, convenience stores, food marts and liquor stores. Effective Jan. 1, these stores may only provide customers with recycled paper carryout bags for a minimum charge of 10 cents per bag at checkout counters, self-checkout kiosks, in-store pickup, curbside delivery and home delivery. Full legislative text of these new laws can be found at leginfo.legislature. ca.gov.

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Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Mountain Democrat

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EL DORADO COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S

Voice of Business 542 Main St. • Placerville, CA 95667 • (530) 621-5885 • www.eldoradocounty.org

History of the Highway 50 Christmas Trees Christmas tree growers who were struggling against competition from other regions. Wondering how to promote locally grown trees, he devised a bold idea: line Highway 50 with decorated Christmas trees to brighten the town’s appearance and spotlight local growers.

Program founder Bob Conrad, and Dolly Wager, Hwy 50 Tree Program Committee Chair for 25 years.

n the early 1970s, Placerville businessman Bob Conrad, owner of the local Ford dealership and member of the Hangtown Chamber of Commerce, set out to help local

Conrad rallied community members, the city engineer, local businesses, students, and major utilities like PG&E. Despite skepticism, complex electrical challenges, and the need for approval from Caltrans and Southern Pacific Railroad, he persisted until all agencies agreed. More than 80 trees were donated, stanchions were built by high school metal shop students, and local companies provided materials and labor. When funding briefly fell short, the Chamber of Commerce

secured a loan, later paid off through a community fundraiser. The first Christmas Tree Lane lit up in 1971 and immediately became a beloved annual tradition. Since then, community members have continued to support the effort year after year, with growers providing discounted trees and volunteers decorating and maintaining them. Nearly 55 years later, Christmas Tree Lane remains a cherished sight in Placerville, a testament to Bob Conrad’s vision, persistence, and community spirit. Excerpted from a Mountain Democrat article written by Pat Lakey in 2015. Read the full article here: https://www.mtdemocrat.com/ prospecting/the-christmas-tree-lanethat-bob-built/article_241a293f-c16a5ab4-8d22-0c0d2b5a8e89.html

Front left to right, decorating the STARS tree, Steve Slattery, Lesley Slattery, Bob Conrad, Deputy Julian Sandoval, Tana Mercer, and Roger Mercer.

Spotlight on a Gold Member Roses & Acorns Creekside Weddings – Nature, Adventure, and Togetherness Your wedding day should be more than a ceremony! At Roses & Acorns Creekside Weddings, we’ve created a venue where romance meets adventure. Nestled beside a tranquil creek and shaded by majestic trees, our property offers couples a breathtaking backdrop that blends rustic charm with refined elegance. We specialize in camping weddings, inspired by the rustic magic of Camp Nauvoo in Placerville, giving you and your guests the chance to celebrate love under the stars. Imagine exchanging vows beneath a canopy of leaves, with sunlight filtering through branches and the gentle sound of water flowing nearby. Afterward, gather with family and friends in our enchanting reception space, where nature’s beauty is complemented by thoughtful details and warm hospitality. As the evening unfolds, the celebration continues around a firepit, with laughter, music, and the glow of starlight. Guests can stay overnight in cozy cabin or glamping tents, waking up to fresh mountain air. It’s not just a wedding—it’s a weekend retreat that brings everyone closer together.

Why Choose Roses & Acorns Creekside Weddings? • Scenic Creekside Setting: A naturally romantic environment that feels secluded yet welcoming. • Personalized Experience: We collaborate closely with you to bring your vision to life, whether rustic chic, bohemian, or classic elegance. From rustic simplicity to elevated outdoor elegance, we allow our couples to tailor the experience to their vision. • Versatile Spaces: Outdoor ceremony sites, charming reception areas, and countless photo opportunities. • Overnight Accommodations: Camping weddings provide the option of the use of our tent sites. Our team understands that every couple’s love story is unique. That’s why we offer customizable packages designed to reflect your style, guest count, and budget. Whether you dream of a twilight ceremony lit by fairy lights, a sun-drenched afternoon surrounded by wildflowers, or a full weekend of camping adventures, Roses & Acorns Creekside Weddings provide the canvas for your perfect day. Reach out to us if you are interested in summer camping, family reunions, business retreats, or the perfect wedding. Call 916 207-9441 or e-mail campnauvoo@gmail.com or rosesandacornsweddings@gmail. com or visit our websites www.campnauvooplacerville.com or www. rosesandacornsweddings.com.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! innovative solutions. The mission is to provide reliable, cost-effective sourcing solutions while promoting veteranowned businesses. (916) 832-3253 • Andy@arc-works.com https://arc-works.com/

From left to right, introducing the newest members of the Chamber family!

Marianne and Craig Lomax, The Lomax Company Leadership and Business coaching, helping leaders improve their clarity, confidence, and strategies for stronger decisions, teams, and outcomes. www.craiglomax.com (530) 748-8509 Craig@CraigLomax.com Chuck Colby, Techneek.biz Techneek.Biz provides comprehensive IT and network management for businesses and renewable-energy operations across California and beyond. From proactive monitoring and cybersecurity to system upgrades and strategic planning, Techneek.Biz helps

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organizations keep their technology efficient, secure, and sustainable. With roots in both managed IT services and industrial automation, we understand the unique challenges of connecting complex systems — and the importance of doing it right the first time. Our mission is to support growth through smart, resilient technology that’s built to last. Learn more at www.techneek.biz

Andy Carter, ARC Works Andrew is a proud Navy veteran and the founder of ARC Works, a certified DVBE and SBE consulting and procurement firm dedicated to empowering businesses through expert guidance and

James Bowman, Edward Jones “My clients are more than ''an account with an amount.'' By getting to know your history and your vision of the future, I partner with you to design a custom solution tailored to your goals. Not only do I give you the map, I also navigate the journey alongside you.” Honest and caring professional with greater than 10 years in the insurance and financial services industry. (530) 621-1014 james.bowman@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com/us-en/financialadvisor/james-bowman John Owens, Garbage Grabbers Providing reliable, licensed, and insured junk removal services. Their mission is to make your experience hasslefree while prioritizing environmentally friendly practices. “We recycle, reuse, and responsibly dispose of unwanted items to reduce landfill waste and keep our community clean. Whether it's a small pickup or a full property cleanout, we're here to help.” (925) 226-8919 Info@garbagegrabbers.net www.garbagegrabbers.net

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2026 New Year’s Resolutions for Small Business Owners (The Realistic Edition) As we all boldly step into 2026—armed with optimism, caffeine, and whatever’s left in the pettycash jar—small business owners everywhere are crafting their New Year’s resolutions. Here are the top contenders: 1. “I will stop adding tasks to my to-do list just to cross them off.” Yes, emailing yourself reminders does not count as delegation. It's just you... delegating to past you. 2. “I will not check email before coffee.” Look, mornings are emotionally fragile. Nobody needs to open Outlook and find a 3-paragraph complaint from someone who forgot their own password. 3. “I will not buy 17 new productivity tools.” You don’t need another app. You need time. And possibly sleep. 4. “I will finally organize my digital files.” 2026 is the year you stop having 112 Word docs named ‘FINAL2_REALLYFINAL_THISONE.docx’. 5. “I will not do the bookkeeping at 11:58 PM on the 14th of the month.” Stop living on the accounting edge. QuickBooks can smell fear. 6. “I will take at least one actual lunch break.” Real meals. Chewing. Sitting. Not just grabbing a protein bar like you’re a squirrel with a business license. 7. “I will celebrate small wins—like remembering to update my hours on Google.” Hey, you survived another Monday? That’s cakeworthy. 8. “I will stop saying yes to every project.” It’s okay to say no. Or “We’re booked until 2027.” Or “I need to consult with my nap schedule.” 9. “I will remember why I started this business in the first place.” Spoiler: It wasn’t to spend your Saturday night fixing the company printer. 10. “I will actually take a vacation.” A real one. One where you don’t bring your laptop ‘just in case’ but absolutely end up doing payroll at the beach.

Contact Elizabeth Hansen for more information.

(530) 344-5028

elizabeth.hansen@ mcnaughton.media

mtdemocrat.com

Mountain Democrat

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

JANUARY Chamber

2026

Champions: Mountain Democrat

H EALTH CENTER

Skilled NurSiNg

New 2026 Labor and Employment Laws Minimum Wage and Salary Requirements • California's minimum wage will rise to $16.90 per hour, with the minimum salary for exempt employees increasing to $70,304 annually. • Fast food employees will have a minimum wage of $20 per hour, and health care workers will have specific minimum wage rates, some of which increased in mid-2025. • Local jurisdictions may have their own minimum wage rates, which can differ from the state rate.

Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation • 642 revises pay scale disclosure requirements, defining "pay scale" as a "good faith estimate" of salary ranges. It extends the statute of limitations for Equal Pay Act claims from two to three years and allows recovery for up to six years. • SB 464 mandates separate storage of demographic data for pay reporting and increases job categories from 10 to 23 starting January 1, 2027. • SB 303 protects employees from discrimination claims based on selfassessment of personal bias during bias mitigation training.

Leaves of Absence • AB 406 consolidates victims' leave provisions under the Government Code, enhancing protections for employees taking leave related to judicial proceedings for specific crimes. • Paid sick leave can now be used for judicial proceedings and jury duty. • SB 590 expands Paid Family Leave eligibility to include care for a seriously ill designated person, effective July 1, 2028.

Employment Contracts • AB 692 restricts repayment

ASSiSted liviNg

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agreements for voluntary employer benefits, prohibiting penalties or fees if employment ends. Exceptions exist for certain government programs and apprenticeship contracts.

Notice and Recordkeeping • SB 294 introduces an annual notice requirement for employers covering workers' rights, with compliance records to be maintained for three years. • Employers must notify emergency contacts if an employee is arrested at work, with a deadline for existing employees to designate contacts by March 30, 2026.

Collective Bargaining • AB 288 expands the California Public Employment Relations Board's jurisdiction to include private-sector employees under certain conditions. • AB 1340 grants unionization rights to rideshare drivers, requiring Transportation Network Companies to report driver information to the Board.

Owner, Amy Sellers celebrates the opening of her marketplace featuring doTERRA products.

The Essential Oils Marketplace has solutions for you! Our story began in the living rooms of Placerville homes; sharing oils, teaching classes, and creating lifelong connections. As our clients, friends, and family members began to feel the benefits of oils and natural solutions, our business grew as well as our purpose. Our purpose for Placerville is to provide natural solutions to every single person who walks through the door. We have helped hundreds of individuals thrive and live

This information was summarized from a publication written by James W. Ward, J.D.; Employment Law Subject Matter Expert/Legal Writer and Editor, CalChamber. To request the full document, send your request to the EDC Chamber, admin@ eldoradocounty.org

MARKETPLACE

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are joined by their oldest son as a partner. Understanding each customer’s tastes and needs is at the heart of Affordable Solutions. Competitive prices combined with superior products are what set them apart from others.

• SB 261 imposes penalties for employers failing to pay final wage judgments, allowing for civil penalties up to three times the judgment amount.

Employers should consult legal counsel to navigate these changes effectively and ensure compliance with the new laws.

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Wage and Hour Enforcement

• SB 648 enhances the Labor Commissioner's authority to enforce rules regarding tips and gratuities.

healthier, more comfortable lives. We would love to meet YOU and share how you can live your best life with essential oils.

Left to Right – Bridgett and Paul Hartshorn, Laurel Brent-Bumb

Affordable Solutions has grown from Affordable Blind Solutions. We still carry all of your window covering needs. Now we also carry furniture and home decor at our new location. Affordable Solutions may look familiar to you, as the original owners of Affordable Furniture and Blinds. Originally started in 2003, Bridgett and Paul Hartshorn bring back their expertise to the business they created 20 years ago. Bridgett said, "The timing was right for us", opening a furniture store eight years and they

Whether ordering for your home or office, the business has a wide variety of exceptional products guaranteed to last. Affordable Solutions also specializes in Interior Shutters, Blinds, and Shades, from kid safe-cord free to motorized and Smart Shades, they've got it all. Providing exceptional customer service is a priority. Affordable Blind Solutions will come to you for a free in-home estimate. They look forward to hearing from you.

AFFORDABLE SOLUTIONS

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January Calendar of events Miners on Main Scavenger Hunt There are ten “Miners” hidden throughout Main Street Placerville from Sacramento Street to Clay Street. These Miners all had an impact on Placerville and El Dorado County during the Gold Rush period. Each miner has a QR code on the medallion that will take you to a webpage about the miners when scanned with your phone camera. So grab your phone and begin your hunt. visit-eldorado.com/miners-on-main/

Jan 02-18 Placerville Friends of Tibet 2026 Schedule - www.placervillefriendsoftibet. org/2026calendar. Tibetian Buddhist Monks of Gaden Shartse Monastic University in.

The Prospector Vibrant Live Music + Arcade in downtown Placerville. https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61559273825704

Dec 31 50 Grand New Year’s Eve with Rockin Souls 50 Grand Restaurant & Bar DINING room will be open 3pm-8pm. From 5pm-9pm Rockin' Souls will rock our socks off in the event room, and we’ll celebrate the New York New Year's Eve countdown at 9pm. Cover is $25 per person, which includes hats, noise makers, bubbly at countdown, and a $20 credit towards food & drink. No outside drink or food allowed. Dinner reservations recommended. Call 530644-1580 or make dinner reservations online at www.50Grand.com. No reservations for the band in the event room, that's first come first serve. Lot's of fun has been had at our New Year's Eve parties, and an early countdown at 9 is enjoyed by all.

Marco’s Café Music on the patio. https://marcoscafelotus. com/music/ Hwy 50 Brewery Music and Events https://hwy50brewery.com/live-music/ El Dorado Hills Town Center Events https://edhtowncenter.com/upcoming-events/ Smith Flat House Events https://www.smithflathouse.com/events Sierra Vista Winery Events www.sierravistawinery.com/upcoming-events/ The Meadow Community studio. Yoga, Pilates and more! https://connectatthemeadow.com/upcoming-schedule/ American River Conservancy Events Conservation, Recreation, Stewardship, Education. https://arconservancy.org/events/ Moonlight Tours Weekly on Thursday, Friday & Saturday. Where historic gold town stories are as rich as the ore once was, and the ghost tours are so chilling, even the specters have goosebumps. (530) 497-4960, moonlightghosttours@gmail. com, https://moonlighttours.co/ Community Observatory Night Sky Viewing Weekly on Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. 6699 Campus Dr, Placerville. $2 parking fee at the college. www.communityobservatory.com, (530) 344-5707. Bingo Night Weekly on Tuesdays. Pollock Pines Community Center, 2675 Sanders Dr. (530) 647-8005. https://pollockpinesca.org/

Dec 31 NYE Toasts Around the World at Poor Reds Toast to the New Year in cities around the world! Complimentary champagne toast for every city we are celebrating! www.poorreds. com/events

Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Hosted by Placerville Emblem Club Enjoy dinner, dancing, door prizes, champagne toast, ball drop, dj Brandon Olivier, no host bar. limited space. Help us raise the roof to raise funds for our scholarships to local schools. Placerville Elks Lodge. www.placervilleelks.org/districtinformation.html Dec 31 1920's Murder Mystery Dinner & Party @ The Extraordinary Camino Hotel Join us at The Extraordinary Camino Hotel for an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration! Immerse yourself in a thrilling 1920s Murder Mystery Dinner, expertly presented by Interactive Entertainment and perfectly catered by West Coast Catering. Indulge in a delectable meal while you unravel the evening's intriguing plot. After the mystery unfolds, dance the night away to live music, and raise your glass for a champagne toast at midnight as we welcome the New Year in style. Don your finest 1920s attire and prepare for a night filled with glamour, laughter, and excitement. Don't miss out

on this extraordinary night of mystery and celebration! Tickets: https://square.link/u/ tTf5IU3j Ticket Details: Murder Mystery Dinner + After Party $129/person Admission: 1 person *5:00pm-6:00pm: Lite appetizers during cocktail hour *6pm-7:30pm: Catered meal with murder mystery entertainment *7:30p8pm: Lite Deserts *8:30pm-12:30am- Live Music/DJ *10:30pm: Late night snack bar *12am: A glass of champaign for a NYE toast Ticket Details: After Party Only $49/person Admission: 1 person *8:30pm-12:30am- Live Music/DJ *10:30pm: Late night snack bar *12am: A glass of champaign for a NYE toast *Book a night at The Extraordinary Camino Hotel www.theextraordinarycaminohotel.com and get 10% off using promo code NYE2026 at check out. *All guests staying at the hotel Dec. 31st 2025 must be event ticket holders. *All guests must be 21 years of age or older Jan 01 National Bloody Mary Day at Poor Reds 11 a.m. – 10 p.m Celebrate the New Year with us at Poor Red’s! Jan 10 iPhone Artistry Class 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Join local photographer and teacher Betty Sederquist for a short, fun workshop that introduces the basics of phone photography. Learn how to capture better photos with your smartphone and explore some of the many helpful photography apps available. While iPhones are preferred, most newer phones are welcome. You’ll receive a list of apps to download the week of the class. 14-year-olds+ welcome. Meeting location in Gold Hill/Placerville area. $45/members, $55/ non-members. A detailed email will be sent once you register online at ARConservancy. org/events Jan 17 Art & Wine with Something MORE We’re thrilled to announce our 2026 Art & Wine with Something MORE Annual Fundraiser, set for January 17, 2026! This year, we invite you to embrace the “Mardi Gras” theme as you come out to support a cause we all care about. This exciting evening brings together our community to support a cause that makes a meaningful impact on the lives of adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Indulge in tastings from local wineries, breweries, distilleries, restaurants, bakeries, and caterers, all while enjoying an evening filled with unique activities and entertainment. Event Highlights:

- Exquisite Artwork for Sale: Original pieces created by the talented Something MORE Artists, with proceeds going directly to them. - Live Art Demonstrations: Watch the Something MORE Artists showcase their incredible skills in real time. - Raffle, Silent & Live Auctions: Bid on amazing prizes and experiences while supporting a great cause. - Tastings Galore: Savor delicious offerings from local wine, beer, food, and dessert vendors. While Mardi Gras-inspired costumes are encouraged to add to the fun, they’re not required, come as you are and ready for a night to remember! Proceeds from this event directly support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, helping to foster full inclusion in our community. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of art, wine, and community impact. Get your tickets today and join us for an event that changes lives! https://morerehab.org/community/ Jan 24 Search and Rescue’s 40th Annual Crab Feed Join us for a night of fabulous food and fun to support the dedicated volunteers of El Dorado Search and Rescue who risk their lives to rescue those lost or in danger "SO THAT OTHERS MAY LIVE". Indulge in a Feast Dungeness crab: Savor the succulent taste of crab hot off the boil. Salad: A refreshing accompaniment to balance the richness of the meal. Clam chowder: A hearty and comforting bowl-licking classic. Bread: Fresh bread to mop up the goodness on your plate. Sip and Savor a variety of local wines, beers, and mixed drinks at our no-host bar. Bid, Win, and Have a Blast with the spectacular prizes we will be auctioning and raffling off. Let Loose and Dance the night away enjoying the music by DJ Grant. VIP Table Entry at 5pm, General Admission at 5:30 p.m. El Dorado County Fair and Event Center, Placerville. www.edsar.org/esarc-crabfeed

For more information on these and other events, visit www.visiteldorado.com Event date, time, cost or locations are subject to change. Prior to attending an event please confirm the information.

A8 Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Coupal

Continued from A4

One would hope that politicians would be more circumspect with expensive “green” projects after the Solyndra debacle from 2015, but apparently, that lesson never sunk in. The Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System is a “solar thermal plant” in the Mojave Desert that uses mirrors to heat water and generate electricity. Initially a large-scale renewable project, it is now scheduled to be decommissioned next year because it failed to meet its energy production targets, it isn’t competitive and it kills birds by the thousands. (It also, ironically, requires natural gas in order to

remain operational). Jason Isaac, CEO of the American Energy Institute summed it up by stating, “Ivanpah stands as a testament to the waste and inefficiency of government-subsidized energy schemes.” Of course, no discussion of government waste in California would be complete without noting the $50 billion in fraud by the Employment Development Department during COVID. The core of the scandal was the abject failure on the part of the EDD to verify the identities of individuals who were receiving benefits. Transnational organized

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this was down to 46.8%. In 1980, the main security threat facing the U.S. was the Soviet Union. The Soviet Union was a security threat but not an economic threat. Today, the U.S. faces both Russia under Putin and the enormous economic and security threat from China. In addition, we must deal with the ongoing threat of Islamic terrorism. Per the World Bank, U.S. defense spending in 1980, at the time of Reagan’s election, stood at 5.2% of GDP. Reagan got this up to 6.8% by 1982. Per Statista, projected defense spending in 2025 stands at 3.2% of GDP, hovering around a historic low. Social Security and Medicare, our two largest entitlement programs, which together account for some 45% of the federal budget, are broke. Per their trustees, Social Security will have insufficient funds to pay benefits by 2034, and Medicare Hospital Insurance funding will fall short in 2033. The world has changed dramatically since Social Security was signed into law in 1935 and Medicare in 1965. What firm does business today like it did 50-plus years ago? These programs need thorough modernization. Politicians may not want to talk about it. But citizens know there is something wrong. Although the road of change was rocky at first, Reagan’s unwavering commitment to the USA as “the land of the free and home of the brave” won the day. Today we have historically outsized challenges. It’s obvious that America’s socialists — the Democratic Party — is the wrong address. If we are going to have a future, we need bold, courageous leadership today. Republicans are the only address. To our good fortune, we have great leaders like Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson on Capitol Hill. Star Parker is founder of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education.

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The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation Lic# 1069901 SHINGLE SPRINGS, CA 95682 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 For Information Email: syndicate-service@nytimes.com For Release Wednesday, December 31, 2025

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

Crossword ACROSS 1 Posterior 5 Unadventurous 10 Growth on one side of trees 14 Psalm starter 15 Home to the renowned Khan el-Khalili bazaar 16 Woes 17 Posterior 18 “An assault on the eyes, the ears, the brain, common sense and the human desire to be entertained” (1998) 20 “No” vote 21 Jewish ceremony performed eight days after birth 22 “Over here!”

28 With 34-Across, “Like taking a bus trip with someone who has needed a bath for a long time” (2000) 30 Fannie ___ 31 Work of Congress 32 Price you pay 33 Loch viewed from the village of Drumnadrochit 34 See 28-Across 37 Pa Clampett on “The Beverly Hillbillies” 38 “I hated this movie. Hated hated hated hated hated this movie. Hated it.” (1994) 39 [Sigh] 40 Amazon wrapper 41 Film locale 42 QB Brady 43 “A two-hour movie squeezed into three hours” (2001) 48 One who may end on a high note

50 Filmmakers with distinctive styles 51 Like a die-hard fan 52 Book after Judges 53 Cable channel since 1981 54 Pulitzer-winning critic known for his perceptive, sometimes sharply worded reviews, as seen in 18-, 28-/34-, 38- and 43-Across 57 ___ school 58 With 34-Down, food delivery app 59 Drive back 60 Wise guy 61 ___ Universe 62 Slate, e.g. 63 Apple product introduced in 2010

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

No. 1126

Edited by Will Shortz 1

25 29

51 54

DOWN 61 62 63 23 “To love ___ is 1 Mingle the beginning of a 2 Lizard with an lifelong romance”: oceangoing Oscar Wilde PUZZLE BY JOHN MCCLUNG subspecies 25 Simple songs nicknamed 19 Abbr. before a year 36 Runs amok 47 Answered an Godzilla invitation 37 Juan : Spanish :: 21 One might precede 3 “Wait!” ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE ___ : Portuguese “Excuse you!” 49 People looking 4 Once-common for hookups, 38 Below, poetically 24 Ballpark figures R I C H I E E S S O P R O pesticide banned informally in 1972 40 Drinking sprees T A L C G I N E N R A P T 25 Homeowner’s 5 Color of a literary proof of purchase D O O M A G I C A T E V O O 52 Car at an auction, 41 One way to get to “A” maybe an airport 26 Right direction? D N A E A R T A G I R S 6 Tax on imports 43 Modest poker S T O R MD O O R E B S E N 27 Meeting, slangily 54 Part of a Bahama holding 7 Gets ready to fire T A S A U R A W I L M A Mama 29 Worrier’s opening 44 Big name in 8 Nest egg inits. T Y I N G C L A W R A M words upscale fashion 55 Belt in judo 9 Disorderly heap of 33 ___ Dame T OMD O O L E Y people 45 Unfair accusation B T S S T E P P L E B S 56 “You ___!” (words 34 See 58-Across of agreement) 46 Jenna of I O T A N I A L O R E S 10 “There’s a traitor in our ___!” “Beetlejuice 35 Potatoes, in Indian S H I V A Z O OMD A T E S Beetlejuice” 57 Letter after chi cuisine 11 Veteran I MO TThe I LNew York Times Syndication Sales Corporation A L O T O F 12 Advisory in a Avenue, New N.Y. 10018 D O O M S C R O L L S620 Eighth R B G OnlineYork, subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past school zone puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). G U A C A T T For I LInformation A 13 ID withEmail: R A E syndicate-service@nytimes.com two E L K S T A S T E S For Release O R S 2026 on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay. hyphens Thursday, ReadJanuary about and 1, comment

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Crossword ACROSS

29 Good person to give a timeconsuming project, maybe 34 St. ___ (city on a 6 Deli counter units: bay, informally) Abbr. 35 Latin for “but” 9 “___ dabba doo!” 36 One way to live 14 Type type 37 Skin-care product thinner than a 15 Thanos, to the moisturizer Avengers 38 “Tee” follower 16 Company that’s the subject of the 39 Greek theater documentary “The 40 In ___ (developing) Smartest Guys in 41 Like the Room” nonagenarians 17 Football offense 42 Joshes arrangement that 43 Process for a resembles an descending inverted Y shape spacecraft 20 High key? 45 Kerfuffles 21 Big inits. in home 46 Losers to the security Olympians 22 Stranger 48 Sing like Ella Fitzgerald 23 Symbols for density, in physics 51 Coke-versus-Pepsi and Apple-versus25 Select, as a career Samsung, e.g. 27 Low-lying area 54 So far 1 Feature of a mountain or fingerprint

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE H I N D S T A I D MO S S C A I R O I L L S O G O D A R M A G E D D O N B U T T B R I S P S S T N A Y O N E S E L F D I T T I E S M A E B A T T L E F I E L D A C T F E E N E S S J E D N O R T H E A R T H B O A S E T A L A S T OM P E A R L H A R B O R A U T E U R S S O P R A N O A V I D R U T H M T V P R E P R O G E R E B E R T R E P E L S A G E U B E R S T O N E I P A D M I S S

56 “Ouch!” 57 Complete an impossible task … or a hint to reading three Down answers in this puzzle 60 Check someone’s checks? 61 Openly gay 62 Total brawl 63 Tosses out 64 “Antiques Roadshow” network 65 Use, as one’s influence DOWN 1 More cold and wet 2 Like some wolfhounds and whiskeys 3 Lucky scientist, perhaps 4 “This is terrible!” 5 Actor Idris 6 Bound for 7 Wild scene 8 Sang to 9 “Anno Domini” period 10 Against 11 Creamy pairing with fig jam 12 Obnoxious sort 13 ___ Petry, first African American woman to write a million-selling novel (“The Street,” 1946) 18 Anxious 19 M.L.B. team that awarded a recordbreaking $765 million contract to Juan Soto in 2024

Edited by Will Shortz 1

24 27

46 52

22 25

No. 1127

48 55

56 59

PUZZLE BY ALEXANDER LIEBESKIND

24 Gloomy, as an atmosphere 26 “That’s relatable” 28 Some citrus desserts 30 Ship-to-shore communicators 31 Essential biochemical process that releases energy in cells 32 Big ones might clash

criminal groups from China and Africa have made off with billions of dollars — used for child trafficking, drugs and terrorism — while millions of deserving taxpayers have been struggling just to stay afloat. We could go on endlessly about politicians’ lack of concern about how our money is spent. Tops on the list, of course, is the High-Speed Rail project. Add to that local government spending on transit, the Capitol Annex project, and the ineffective spending on the state’s homeless problem. Regrettably, wasting taxpayer dollars in California is now an art form. It reminds us of Ronald Reagan’s observation that politicians are like diapers. They need to be changed periodically. Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

33 ___ Faire (medieval-themed festival) 34 Grp. that’s down on all furs? 35 Person who’s offbase? 37 Go after, in a way 44 Tread on me! 45 See 53-Down 47 Russian refusals 49 Many an early internet user, informally 50 #’s place

51 Cousin of turquoise 52 Disappointments 53 With 45-Down, “Hey, hold on!” 55 “Put your pens and pencils down” 57 California’s capital, in some of its nicknames 58 Center of activity 59 “Vivat ___” (“Long live the king”)

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

Continued from A4

Announcements AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448. El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country CribbersWe Play - We Teach - We Have Fun Wednesdays 4:00 PM Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452 Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza– Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see

edcdems.org for more information. GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575 HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM – 10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses.The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on May 19, July 21, September 15 and November 17, 2025 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information. SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started. TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.

mtdemocrat.com

Mountain Democrat

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

COMICS ■ SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene

Philanthropic donor Robert Pepper speaks to guests attending the unveiling of the new ZeroG 3D rehabilitation system at Marshall’s El Dorado Hills facility as Marshall CEO Siri Nelson, center, and Marshall Relationship Manager Kara Sather, right, look on.

ZeroG

Continued from A1

Therapy Kimmy Reid and patient Diane Marchesi, 74, of El Dorado Hills demonstrated its use for the public at an event earlier this month. Marchesi suffered from polio as a child and said she has post-polio syndrome which began in her 70s. She praised the device. “I can walk, back up, go around in circles and use the treadmill without falling,” she shared. “I feel in my heart that I am going to walk without support with Kimmy and the team’s help.” “In order for a patient to qualify to use ZeroG 3D they must be able to walk on their own,” Reid explained. “It is an assist for ambulation.” ZeroG 3D has software integrated in the equipment detailing each patient’s profile, including their current weight. “Once engaged, we are able to use the portable ‘phone’ tablet to control different variables during treatment. These include the percentage of body weight we want to ‘unload’ or help assist the patient, the type of fall control and the space in which the patient can move,” the doctor continued. “The fall control can be set to ‘catch’ a patient based on the velocity of the fall or a certain distance (which we can also adjust). The space can be modified for the patient to use the entire space of the grid (thus the 3D) or stay in a set ‘box’ or line based on what the therapist wants to achieve. This is what makes ZeroG 3D unique. It is the ability to move in a threedimensional work area rather than a line (which other places have a ZeroG device, but ours is 3D).” The device can be programmed for each patient’s individual needs. Reid said a patient may only need 20% body weight assist to perform an obstacle course but 30-40% to perform sit to stand transfers. She has also used the device to train a patient how to get up

Rescue

■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin

■ SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Continued from A1

Tala told a local news outlet the gratitude from the family left a lasting impression. One detail stood out to him afterward. “It’s funny too, because on of their dog’s name is Luna, which is my daughter’s name,” he said. “I was like, how’s that a coincidence, right?” Tala, his wife Yvett and their 22-month-old daughter were on their way to celebrate the holiday in the snow. “SSgt. Tala and Yvett’s quick action and courage are a direct reflection of our Core Value of Service Before Self,” Lt. Col. Jason Christie, 60th Force support Squadron commander said. “We’re so proud to have them as our teammates and witness them ready to

Procedures

help anyone in need.” California Highway Patrol Officer Andrew Brown noted, “No or very minor damage to the vehicle was observed at the scene. The vehicle was pulled out of the snow and they continued on their way.” As there was no CHP investigation of the crash, Brown couldn’t speculate on its cause but did caution, “Even if a vehicle is traveling under the speed limit (25 mph in chain control areas on Highway 50) they may still be found at fault for a crash due to unsafe speed (22350 VC) based on the conditions of the roadway. We want to remind everyone that speed and snow can be a dangerous combination.”

SUDOKU Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9

Continued from A3

public to address the board for three minutes about any subject matter that is not on the meeting agenda. As always, interested persons may email comments on any and all agenda items to edc.cob@edcgov.us to be entered into the public record. The board’s actions can be found at eldorado.legistar.com/Calendar. aspx, Legistar file 25-1864, item 21 under Minutes.

Letter

from the floor should they sustain a fall. “Once the treatment session is over, the portable computer software gives the therapist the statistics of the treatment including average body weight (pounds and percentage) of un-weigthing, total session time and number of falls detected,” she added. Guests had an opportunity to try out the device before and after the presentation. El Dorado County District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero gave it a try, demonstrating a few lunges. “My body was lighter and it felt safe,” he marveled. “It was easier to do lunges and I can see how this will be good for patients.” “It’s really great. I had a hip replacement and I still don’t have my mobility back,” added EDH resident John Raslear. “I found it to be stabilizing and it helped me to walk more normal.” “Since beginning use of ZeroG 3D, we have seen not only patients getting stronger physically, but increased confidence in their ability to move around,” Reid shared. “Before ZeroG 3D, we as therapists would have to use a gait belt to do gait and balance training and if a patient had a loss of balance or required assistance, we would have to physically catch them or assist them. ZeroG 3D now does the physical work, thus preserving our own bodies,” she continued. “Not only is ZeroG 3D a cool, new technological rehab device, it has opened up an entire newer world of rehab for us. We want to get into not only using it for balance and gait training, but for orthopedic patients who are fresh out of surgery like ACL reconstruction or meniscal repair where full weightbearing activities may be limited so we can get the patient stronger and more mobile faster.”

The county will continue to offer multiple ways for the public to view, attend and engage in the business of the county during board meetings: attend in person at the board chambers, 330 Fair Lane, Building A, Placerville, connect through Zoom, call in by phone, watch the live stream on the board’s YouTube channel or share thoughts on agenda items in writing.

Continued from A4

quagmire of public comments across a wide spectrum of agenda items. This is not a minor procedural adjustment but a dramatic narrowing of the public’s voice. Public comments exist for a reason. Cutting public comment time does not make government more efficient; it makes it less informed. The message sent by this change is clear: public input is seen by most board members as inconvenient and decisions may be largely settled before meetings begin. That perception fuels distrust, discourages civic engagement and

pushes participation out of public view and into protest, litigation or citizen apathy. Good governance is not about speed. It is about listening to the residents and their needs. When public comment is reduced to a total of three minutes per resident, it diminishes the voice of the people — at the cost of transparency, trust, and residents rightful place in governance. If you agree, let your supervisor know you disagree with their decision. LEO BENNETT-CAUCHON Pollock Pines

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

Solutions to puzzles in Classified section of newspaper.

HOROSCOPE by Holiday Mathis ■ TODAY ARIES (March 21-April 19). Out with thinking you must do everything alone. Independence is admirable, but isolation is exhausting. In with supported ambition. Let others help, teach, collaborate, cheer and lighten the burden. Receiving is as powerful as giving. TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Out with perfectionism. It’s a trap dressed as ambition, keeping you frozen in place. In with steady progress. Small steps done imperfectly move mountains over time. Let yourself try things. Stop judging yourself for not being flawless. GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Out with saying yes out of habit or fear. Default “yes” has cost you too much. In with deliberate choices. Let “I need to think about it” be a complete sentence. Your time and energy are finite resources, not freebies. CANCER (June 22-July 22). Out with guilt. It’s the kind of emotion you only need the tiniest twinge of. You get the pang, you correct your behavior, done. In with selfcelebration. You’re doing so much that’s right. Remind yourself every day. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Out with shrinking yourself to keep the peace or stay unnoticed. That habit helped you once, but it’s outdated. In with presence. Let your voice land, your ideas circulate, your personality take up space. You belong everywhere your feet already stand. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Out with overthinking. That loop has cost you enough energy already. In with intuitive action, gentle, confident and grounded. Trust that you’ve learned enough to make decisions that support who you’re becoming, not who you were afraid to be.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Out with comparing your journey to curated snapshots of others. That lens distorts everything. In with self-referenced metrics. If it matters to you, it matters period. Measure your life by how it feels, not how it looks from the outside. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Out with waiting for the perfect mood. That delay is expensive. Instead, just begin. In with starter energy. Do the smallest first step available. Let motion spark inspiration rather than demand inspiration before motion. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Out with rushing. That frantic pace burns the wiring. In with sustainable momentum. A calm, rhythmic approach gets you further, and your nervous system will finally feel like a partner instead of an enemy. Plus, you look cool. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Out with tolerating chaos disguised as opportunity. Not everything demanding your attention deserves your attention. In with intentional commitments. Choose only the things that amplify your wellbeing and future vision. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Out with ineffective coping mechanisms. Think of them as outdated, not shameful. In with gentler regulation. Break tasks down, ask for support and breathe intentionally. Let feeling slightly uncomfortable be OK without needing to squash your emotions or escape. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Out with self-doubt that masquerades as humility. It’s not modest to belittle your own skills. In with grounded confidence. Name what you’re good at, practice saying it out loud, and let that acknowledgment open doors you’ve avoided knocking on.

A10 Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

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NEWS, IN THE

KNOW Stellar Students Congratulations to Kai Shigemasa Curry of El Dorado Hills for earning a Bachelor of Science from The University of Nebraska.

Dec. 31 The Pollock Pines-Camino Community Center invites the community to join its New Year’s Eve Bingo Bash at 7 p.m. All dinners include 20 games, appetizers, refreshments and dessert. Dinner options include prime rib, scampi, chicken Parmesan and vegetarian lasagna. Get your reservations early by calling Bob at (530) 3919649. Gold Trail Grange in Coloma will host New Year’s Eve at the Grange with DJ Grant Petersen, 7-11 p.m, and featuring a photo booth, Tacos by Wani’s, snacks, wine and beer. For more information visit goldtrailgrange.com. Little Hurricane + Golden Cadillacs Rockin New Years Eve will take place, 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com. Kirk Basquez will perform, 5-9 p.m. and Fresh will perform from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com. Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “At the Nightclub” New Year’s Eve Party at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com. The Boardwalk in Orangevale will host a New Year’s Eve bash featuring Riff Raff and special guest Best Of Both Worlds beginning at 9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rocktheboardwalk.com. Join the Downtown Sacramento Partnership for Countdown on the Cobblestones from 5-10 p.m., a lively event bringing music and festivities to the Old Sacramento Waterfront featuring live music, interactive activities and a light show, providing a family-friendly alternative to midnight festivities. For more information visit downtownsac.org. The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley presents NYE with The Brothers Comatose at 9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org.

Jan. 2 DJ Zephyr will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com. Sons of Rock will perform from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com. SacAnime will take place at SAFE Credit Union Convention Center Jan. 2 from noon to 11 p.m., Jan. 3 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Jan. 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. SacAnime is the largest family-friendly pop culture convention in Northern California, specializing in Anime, Animation and Video Gaming. For more information visit sacanime.com.

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Section B

Volunteers sought for Academic Decathlon mtdemocrat.com n Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Dena Allen

El Dorado County Office of Education

olunteers are being sought to support the El Dorado County Academic Decathlon regional competition, with key events scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, and Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at Union Mine High School. Among the primary volunteer roles are Speech and Interview judges and Essay and Objective Testing proctors. These positions are essential to the success of the annual competition, which gives high school students an opportunity to demonstrate academic knowledge and communication skills. Speech and Interview judges evaluate student performances in prepared and impromptu speeches as well as one-on-one interviews. Judges help create a supportive environment that allows students to build confidence and showcase their abilities. Essay and Objective Testing proctors assist with monitoring testing sessions to ensure students follow established rules and procedures, helping maintain the integrity of the program. No prior experience is required for either role. Training and materials are provided to ensure volunteers feel prepared and confident. Community members interested in volunteering are encouraged to register through the online volunteer registration form at tinyurl.com/yc8kv52c. Questions may be directed to Dena Allen, regional coordinator, at dkallen@ edcoe.org. Volunteer participation makes the competition possible and plays a key role in helping students perform at their best.

Courtesy photo

Students study their notes before competing in the Academic Decathlon’s Speech and Interview events at Union Mine High School.

Women’s Fund to award $112,000 in 2026 Cathy Harris

Women’s Fund El Dorado

onprofit organizations serving the western slope of El Dorado County are invited to apply for grant funding from Women’s Fund El Dorado in 2026. Women’s Fund El Dorado, known as WFED, expects to award a total of $112,000 in grants to support a wide range of community needs, including basic human services, children and youth development and arts and culture. Grant applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Jan. 29, 2026. An applicant workshop for prospective grantees is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2026. Workshop details and application materials will be posted at womensfundeldorado. org. For 2026, WFED’s Inspiration Grant will award a total of $52,000. The Inspiration Grant does not have a specific focus, allowing nonprofits to identify and address the most pressing needs in the community. Organizations may apply for up to $26,000. In addition, WFED will award six other grants totaling $60,000. These include three Acorn Grants of up to $10,000 each for nonprofit organizations that have not previously received funding from

Mountain Democrat file photo by Lisa Richmond

Hands4Hope volunteer Jayce Kaldunski spoke at the Women’s Fund El Dorado Grants Gala when Hands4Hope received an Impact Grant to support its youth programs in 2023. WFED and three Impact Grants of up to $10,000 each for organizations providing direct benefits to the western slope of El Dorado County. Eligible focus areas include, but are not limited to, mental and physical health, education, youth development, services for children, families and seniors, arts, community beautification, animal welfare and community development. Organizations may

apply for only one grant category — Inspiration, Acorn or Impact. Following the Jan. 29 deadline, proposals will be reviewed and scored by the WFED Grants Committee. Top-scoring proposals in each category will advance to the full WFED membership for a vote. Member voting opens following the WFED Ballot Showcase on April 2, 2026, and closes April 17, 2026. Grant recipients will be notified April 23, 2026.

To qualify, organizations must have nonprofit status and an established office on the western slope of El Dorado County, from El Dorado Hills to Silver Fork. Requests for proposals and additional information are available at womensfundeldorado. org. Questions may be directed to the WFED grant chair at grants@ womensfundeldorado. org. Women’s Fund El

Dorado, a fund of the El Dorado Community Foundation, is a collective giving organization open to all for a donation of $200 or more per year. Funds are pooled and distributed through member-voted grants supporting projects that enhance quality of life on the western slope of El Dorado County. Since its founding 18 years ago, WFED has awarded more than $1.36 million to 115 community projects.

B2 Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

GROW FOR IT! New Year’s gardening resolutions It’s that time of year when many people begin making resolutions for the new year. Here are a few gardening resolutions to help your garden thrive throughout 2026.

One Resolve to keep up with garden maintenance instead of responding to problems after they arise. Take advantage of cooler weather to keep plants healthy and ready to grow well during summer heat. Garden maintenance includes checking and updating irrigation systems, adding mulch as needed, improving soil and taking a close look at plants for signs of problems such as nutritional deficiencies or pest infestations. These issues are much easier to treat when noticed sooner rather than later.

Susan Wallace

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

Two Start a garden journal. Writing down your gardening efforts is an effective way to remember what has and hasn’t worked in past years. Garden journals can be as elaborate or as simple as you like. You can buy one online and fill it with notes, photos and drawings, or keep simple records on your computer. Whatever approach works for you, be sure to keep it up on a regular basis.

Three Resolve to maintain defensible space around your home. For example, do not plant anything

within five feet of your home and remove any plants already that close to a structure. Avoid planting species that are particularly flammable. While any plant will burn, some are much more combustible than others and should not be planted near structures. Resinous plants and plants that collect large amounts of dead wood or leaves are especially risky. A complete listing of defensible space landscaping recommendations is beyond the scope of this article, but more information is available at edcfiresafe. org/homeownerfrequently-askedquestions#docaccess.

Four Don’t plant invasive species. Plants such as English ivy and Spanish broom may be attractive, but if given the chance they can take over your yard — and the rest of the neighborhood. They can smother other plants and become a fire risk when overgrown.

Pixabay photo

Writing down your gardening efforts is an effective way to remember what has and hasn’t worked in past years. Garden journals can be as elaborate or as simple as you like. For examples of invasive plants and recommended alternatives, visit calipc.org/solutions/ prevention/landscaping/ dpp/?region=foothills.

Five Continue learning new ideas and techniques for your garden. The UC Cooperative Extension offers a wide range of articles at ucanr. edu/site/divisionagriculture-and-naturalresources/gardening.

Master Gardeners in El Dorado County also offer a variety of free gardening classes.

Six Get out in your garden and have fun. 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.

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News release SACRAMENTO — Educators from across California will gather at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento on Tuesday, Feb. 11, for the El Dorado Charter SELPA’s annual Inspiration to Action Symposium. The free, in-person event, scheduled from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., is designed to celebrate inclusive education and

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rekindle passion for teaching. The symposium highlights the collective efforts of educators and families to “believe in every student.” Attendees will hear from leading voices in education and wellness, including Dr. Shelley Moore of Outside Pin Consulting, digital wellness advocate Dino Ambrosi, and UC Davis MIND Institute experts Dr. Aubyn Stahmer and Amber Fitzgerald. Additional speakers include Yvonne Thornton of Folsom Cordova Unified, Amy Kraft and Stephanie Coleman of the Sacramento County Office of Education, and Sarah MacFarland of Visions in Education. Sessions will cover topics such as inclusive teaching strategies,

supporting socialemotional learning, and promoting digital wellness in the classroom. The El Dorado Charter Special Education Local Plan Area provides support, resources, and professional development for educators working with students with diverse learning needs. Its mission is to help schools and families ensure that every student has access to highquality, individualized education. The annual Inspiration to Action Symposium is one of SELPA’s signature events, offering educators tools and strategies to strengthen inclusive learning environments. Past symposiums

have drawn hundreds of educators from across the state. Previous events featured interactive workshops, panel discussions, and hands-on sessions that focused on student engagement, equity and wellness. Attendees say the symposium offers more than professional development — it provides a community where educators can share experiences and return to their classrooms “re-inspired” to make a difference. Organizers say the event is not only a chance to learn from leading experts but also a celebration of the meaningful impact teachers have on their students every day. For more information and to register, visit charterselpa.org.

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Mountain Democrat Wednesday, December 31, 2025 B3

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El Dorado County vintages rest in barrels waiting for the right time to be bottled. Barrel samples will be poured at Passport Weekend.

Passport weekend returns News release

assport Weekend, a long-running celebration of Sierra Foothill wines, returns April 18 and 19, 2026 with tastings, food pairings and exclusive experiences at more than 20 family-owned wineries from Apple Hill to Fair Play. Now in its 35th year, Passport Weekend offers wine lovers an opportunity to sample mountaingrown wines in an intimate, relaxed setting

while enjoying food pairings, reserve wines and special wineryhosted experiences. Participating wineries will feature a range of offerings, from artisan pizzas paired with estate-grown Rhône varietals to tastings in wine caves and themed experiences such as the popular “Grapefather Experience.” One ticket provides access to all participating wineries, making the weekend one of the region’s best wine-tasting values,

organizers said. Tickets are available in three options: oneday passes, two-day passes and designated driver tickets. Early bird pricing is available through Jan. 31, offering buyers a $10 discount — up to 20% off the regular ticket price. Additional information about participating wineries, scheduled experiences and ticket purchases is available at eldoradowines.org/ passport. Early bird pricing ends Jan. 31.

Marshall joins Sierra-at-Tahoe Fernando Diaz Marshall Medical

arshall has announced it will serve as the official medical provider of the ski clinic at Sierra-at-Tahoe as the resort opens for its 79th season. Located within Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, the Marshall Ski Clinic will provide high-quality, on-site care. The clinic will be open to skiers from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. “The Marshall Ski Clinic at Sierraat-Tahoe represents an exciting expansion of our commitment to the health and well-being of our region’s active population,” said Martin Entwistle, chief of medical affairs. “Staffed by our well-trained and experienced professionals, the clinic team looks forward to caring for resort guests and getting them the care they need to return to the slopes as quickly and as safely as possible, supported by Marshall’s world-class sports injury specialists and our stateof-the-art physical therapy facilities.” Marshall, an independent, fullservice health care system, brings more than six decades of leadingedge care to the mountainside clinic. With a comprehensive network that includes Marshall Hospital and clinics in Placerville, Cameron Park and Georgetown, and a newly opened 25,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art medical facility in El Dorado Hills, Marshall is well positioned to support the health care needs of area residents and resort guests. The El Dorado Hills facility, located just off Highway 50, includes the Center for Sports Rehabilitation and Active Living, with sports medicine, orthopedics and physical therapy positioned directly adjacent to Marshall’s walk-in orthopedic clinic.

“We are excited to welcome the expert team at Marshall to the medical clinic at Sierra,” said Dan Healy, general manager and vice president of Sierra-at-Tahoe. “This partnership will deliver high-quality care to our guests just steps away from skiing and snowboarding, helping our Sierra community thrive on the mountain.” This collaboration between Marshall and Sierra-at-Tahoe enhances guest safety and expands health care access for those enjoying the active lifestyle available in El Dorado County.

About Marshall Marshall is an independent, nonprofit community health care provider located in the Sierra foothills. Marshall includes Marshall Hospital, a fully accredited acute care facility with 111 beds in Placerville; outpatient facilities in Cameron Park, El Dorado Hills, Placerville and Georgetown; and a range of community health and education programs. Marshall has more than 220 licensed practitioners and more than 1,400 employees providing health care services to more than 180,000 residents of El Dorado County. Learn more at marshallmedical.org.

About Sierra-at-Tahoe Sierra-at-Tahoe spans 2,000 acres, 50 trails and 2,212 vertical feet of skiable terrain, offering terrain for skiers and riders of all levels. Beginners can make first turns on gentle slopes, while advanced riders can explore expert terrain in Huckleberry Canyon. The resort features up to seven terrain parks and chairlifts just steps from the parking lot. Sierra-at-Tahoe is a convenient way to enjoy skiing and riding in Lake Tahoe. Visit sierraattahoe.com.

49’er Bail Bond Adco Driveline and Custom Exhaust Adept – Med International, Inc. ARCO AM/PM Burke Junction Captrust Conforti Plumbing Edwards A-1 Appliance El Dorado Irrigation District EN2 Resources, Inc. Farmers Insurance - Sean Smith Frank’s Body Shop, Inc. HFW Enterprises, LLC Lake Oaks Mobile Home Community Mattress by Appointment Placerville Mountain Roofing Systems Sierra Valley Enterprises, LLC Triangle Well Drilling Western Sign Co., Inc.

he Mountain Democrat’s Newspapers in Education program (NIE) was established in 2002 to provide and educational service arm for the newspaper. NIE’s goal is to assist schools, teachers and parents in developing future readers who can use the newspaper to enrich their own lives and participate responsibly in their community, state and nation. Not only does the Mountain Democrat provide valuable information on a wide range of topics daily, it also can be used as a resource for teaching numerous skills to various age groups and in many different disciplines. It helps students connect classroom lessons to the real world around them and develop a positive and

relevant lifetime reading habit. A study released by the Newspaper Association of America Foundation shows data indicating students in NIE programs do 10 percent better on standardized tests and that significant increases in student performances occur, especially in middle schools. Donations from our sponsors allow our educators to order the newspaper for their classrooms free of charge. These sponsorships contribute to literacy and allow thousands of teachers and students in El Dorado County to learn from a living textbook, the Mountain Democrat, and develop a life-long reading habit that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Email your letter to editor to editor@mtdemocrat.net

Please show these sponsors your support for the program by patronizing their businesses.

We do not publish anonymous letters so don’t forget to include your first and last name and where in El Dorado County you live.

Call 530-344-5048 to become a sponsor.

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B4 Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Dust off your boots for some old-school fun

— 2026 Fair Theme announced —

El Dorado County Fair Association News release

he El Dorado County Fair Association has announced the theme for the 2026 El Dorado County Fair, set for June 18–21, 2026, at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. The theme, “Good Ol’ Fashioned Fun,” celebrates everything people love about the fair, with a cheerful nod to America’s 250th birthday. From the smell of kettle corn to the sounds of live music, “Good Ol’ Fashioned Fun” highlights the simple pleasures that bring generations together. The 2026 fair will honor classic traditions while celebrating the spirit, pride and community that have defined both the El Dorado County Fair and the nation for generations. “There’s nothing quite like our county fair,” said Kathy Dunkak, CEO of the El Dorado County Fair. “In 2026, we’re inviting everyone to slow down, smile a little bigger and enjoy the kind of good, old-fashioned

fun that reminds us why fairs — and communities — matter so much.” Fair staples including livestock shows, carnival rides, live entertainment, hands-on activities and classic fair food will return, wrapped in a nostalgic red, white and blue flair fitting for a milestone year. Exhibitors, vendors and fair fans are encouraged to begin planning creative entries and displays inspired by the 2026 theme. Whether vintage, patriotic or simply fun, the El Dorado County Fair is ready to celebrate it all. The 2026 Competitive Handbook will include special awards and prizes for entries honoring the nation’s 250th birthday, featuring one-of-a-kind ribbons. Additional details, including entertainment announcements, exhibit entry deadlines and special 250th birthday features, will be released in the months ahead. For updates and information, visit eldoradocountyfair.org, follow the El Dorado County Fair on social media, email fair@eldoradocountyfair.org, or call (530) 621-5860.

Mountain Democrat file photo

The El Dorado County Fair sees tens of thousands of guests each year.

Courtesy photo

Soroptimist International of Cameron Park and El Dorado Hills adopted a family through The Center for Violence-free Relationships and hosted a wrapping party and gift exchange in December. “Merry Christmas to a wonderful group of ladies who volunteer their time to raise funds that help women and girls in our community and around the world,” said Marlyn PinoJones of Soroptimist International of Cameron Park and El Dorado Hills.

Healthy Everyday Recipes for Real Life Nutritious, Energy-Boosting, Egg-Inspired Breakfasts That Save Time

Family Features

hen planning meals, particularly breakfasts, there are a few critical factors many families consider: taste, simplicity and nutrition. Eating healthier doesn’t have to be complicated or out of reach. With the right inspiration, healthy food can be delicious, nutritious and convenient. By choosing ingredients like eggs, which are easy to use and versatile, you can make healthy living fit into your life at the breakfast table as part of a balanced diet. For example, these egg-inspired recipes are part of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best. In addition to the social and emotional benefits of dining together, shared family meals can help promote healthier choices at the table. Backed by expert

nutrition guidance, recipes such as Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust are wholesome, flavorful and fast, perfect for busy weekdays or anytime you need a nutritious boost. The sweet potato crust offers a betterfor-you twist on ready-made or traditional crusts made with butter, and it can be served with slices of honeydew or berries for an added touch of sweetness. For a protein-rich dish any day of the week, Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Scramble on Whole-Wheat English Muffins can help you solve the morning rush. Or for a true timesaver, these Egg “Muffin” Cups with Turkey Sausage and Mushrooms can be made over the weekend and frozen or refrigerated for quick, go-to meals throughout the week. Remember, healthy eating isn’t just about one food – it’s about a combination of wholesome ingredients to make well-rounded meals. For example, eggs can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean protein and fish, according to the American Heart Association. Eating eggs alongside foods high in saturated fat – like bacon – is different than eggs eaten with steamed veggies, whole grains or a side of fruit. To find more healthy eating tips and recipes that help you eat smart, move more and live healthier, visit Heart.org.

Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Scramble on Whole-Wheat English Muffins

Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust

Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best Servings: 5 Nonstick cooking spray 1 medium sweet potato, peeled 1 teaspoon canola or corn oil 1 medium yellow onion, diced 6 slices uncured, nitrate-free turkey bacon, thinly sliced 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed 3/4 teaspoon dried dillweed, crumbled 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 4 large egg whites 2 large eggs 1/4 cup fat-free milk 1 1/2 tablespoons fat-free feta cheese Preheat oven to 400 F. Lightly spray 9-inch pie pan with nonstick cooking

spray. In medium bowl, using box grater, grate sweet potato. Measure out 2 cups. Gently press sweet potato on bottom and up sides of pan, forming crust. Sweet potato will be loose but will hold together once cooked. Bake 20 minutes, or until crust is cooked. Remove from oven. Let stand to cool. Reduce oven temperature to 350 F. In medium skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 6 minutes, or until almost translucent, stirring frequently. Add turkey bacon. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until onion and bacon begin to brown, stirring frequently. Add spinach, dillweed, salt and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes, or until water from spinach is released. Remove from heat. Transfer mixture into sweet potato crust. In medium bowl, whisk egg whites, eggs and milk. Pour over mixture in crust. Sprinkle feta over top. Bake 35-40 minutes, or until knife inserted into center comes out clean. Transfer to cooling rack. Let cool 10 minutes before cutting into wedges.

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best Servings: 4 Nonstick cooking spray 1 1/2 cups finely chopped fresh or frozen broccoli florets, thawed if frozen 1/4 cup water 8 extra-large egg whites 1/2 cup fat-free milk 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1/4 cup shredded fat-free cheddar cheese 2 whole-wheat, low-sodium English

muffins Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat. Cook broccoli and water 4-5 minutes, or until broccoli is tender. Remove from heat. Transfer broccoli to dish. Using paper towels, wipe skillet clean. In large bowl, whisk egg whites, milk and pepper until combined. Lightly spray skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat. Pour in egg white mixture. Cook 2-3 minutes, or until almost firm, stirring constantly with spatula. Stir in broccoli and cheddar cheese. Remove from heat. Just before serving, split and toast English muffins. Transfer to plates. Spoon egg mixture onto muffins.

Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Scramble on Whole-Wheat English Muffins

mtdemocrat.com

Mountain Democrat Wednesday, December 31, 2025 B5

A flower grows at the end of a Only one of the shapes below can folded into a box with four stem of a plant. That’s one kind besides, a top and a bottom and no of stem. extra flaps. Work with a family member to take a guess. Then,

carefully cut each shape out and Today, businesses are interested in kids knowing about another kind of STEM. see if you guessed correctly! This STEM is spelled from the first letter in th the words:

Circle the things that are made using science, technology, engineering or math.

Hypothesis:

(What do you think will happen?)

Investigate:

1. Hold the straw by its side and try to quickly stab it through the potato.

Materials:

2. Repeat stabbing the potato with a new straw. But this time, place your thumb over the top of the straw, covering the opening.

uncooked potato

Observe:

Sports Page Math

Find all of the scores of the winning teams on the sports page. Add up the scores. What do you get?

What happens?

2 plastic straws

Observe:

What happens?

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Use strategies of the reading process to follow written directions.

STEM learning is often hands-on and fun. It is experiments, making and testing things, fixing things and more. YOU be the scientist and try this cool experiment!

ANSWER: Did you circle every item? STEM is needed to make all the things we use every day!

STEM subjects help people to better understand the world around us. And they help us to solve problems we see in the world. STEM workers solve problems such as how to clean up rivers, how to make clean energy, how to fight deadly diseases, how to make computers and how to explore space.

Standards Link: Research: Use the newspaper to locate information.

ANSWER: C. (A & E will also make boxes but have an extra flap.)

In these magic square puzzles, you fill in the missing numbers so that each row and column and diagonal adds up to the same number. Look at the example, then try the ones below.

SCIENTIST HYPOTHESIS COMPRESS PEOPLE WORLD STRAW M MATH SP SPACE TE TESTING O OBSERVE SO SOLVE A AIR ST STEM TI TIME

A S W S K H S M I T

H Y P O T H E S I S E T S A R R E B S I

V B M R C L A D T T

R N I B P E D W E N E A H O K Y T I M E S J E V L O S F D I

B P G N I T S E T C

O V C O M P R E S S

Science Fiction Story

Standards Link: Research: Use the newspaper to locate information.

ANSWER: With experi-mints.

Science fiction stories imagine what the future could be like. Look through today’s newspaper for a science-related article about something that might have been considered science fiction 100 years ago.

OBSERVE

The verb observe means to watch or examine something closely. In the kitchen, I could observe the chef making our dessert. Try to use the word observe in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members.

Describe a normal day in the year 2050. Do kids still go to school? Do people drive cars? What new inventions have been created? Do people vacation on the moon?

B6 Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

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Blues legacy continues on KZAP News release

ACRAMENTO — On a Saturday morning in early January, a familiar blues groove will return to Sacramento’s airwaves, carried forward by a musician shaped by its history. “The Blues Party with Kyle Rowland” will debut Saturday, Jan. 3, airing from 10 a.m. to noon Pacific on Sacramento’s KZAP. The program marks a full-circle moment for Rowland, a harmonica virtuoso and longtime protégé of the late Mick Martin, whose influential show “Mick Martin’s Blues Party” helped define blues radio in the region for decades. Martin, a beloved broadcaster, musician and blues advocate, died last July. For Rowland, who called him “Uncle Mick,” stepping into the Saturday morning time slot is both an honor and a responsibility. Sacramento’s KZAP, 93.5 FM, which celebrated its 10th anniversary of returning to the airwaves in 2025, announced the new program in midDecember, framing it as a continuation rather than a replacement. “Blues fans, get ready for a soul-stirring continuation of the legacy that defined Sacramento’s airwaves,” the station said in its announcement. “It’s not an end; it’s evolution.” Rowland is uniquely positioned to bridge that evolution. A Sacramento Blues Society Hall of Fame inductee and a 2024

Courtesy photo

The program marks a full-circle moment for Kyle Rowland, a harmonica virtuoso and longtime protégé of the late Mick Martin, whose influential show “Mick Martin’s Blues Party” helped define blues radio in the region for decades. International Blues Challenge semifinalist, he has been performing since childhood. His relationship with Martin began in 2004, when Rowland was just 10 years old and caught Martin’s attention at the Sacramento Jazz Jubilee. Martin invited the young harmonica player onstage, sparking a mentorship that would last two decades. Under Martin’s guidance, Rowland absorbed the breadth of the blues, from its Delta roots to its modern interpretations. Martin produced Rowland’s first CD when he was 16 and collaborated with him on later projects, including Come On If You’re Comin’ with the Dixie Drifters in 2021. He also championed Rowland through Blues in the Schools programs and countless live performances. As Martin once said,

Rowland represented the bridge between the old masters and the next generation. That spirit will guide the new show. “The Blues Party with Kyle Rowland” will blend classic blues tracks with emerging artists, reflecting Martin’s belief in honoring tradition while nurturing new voices. KZAP said the program will also carry forward Martin’s trademark wit and deep knowledge of the genre. For longtime listeners, the sound may feel familiar, even as the voice behind the microphone changes. The blues, after all, has always been about continuity — songs passed down, stories retold and torches handed from one generation to the next. On Jan. 3, that torch will be lit again. Learn more or listen at k-zap.org.

We Buy Houses!

Liz Buys Houses Connects Home Sellers with Legitimate Cash Buyers Nationwide! No Repairs. No Fuss.

Courtesy photo

The signature program brings together public officials, business leaders and community partners to discuss the current state and future direction of downtown Sacramento.

Spotlighting Sacramento’s next decade Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

• Fair Cash Offer • Quick Closing • No Realtor Fees • No House Repairs • Simple Home Sale “Selling my home with Liz Buys Houses was a game-changer! Their expertise and support throughout the process were unparalleled. I couldn't have asked for a smoother sell. KUDOS to this amazing team!” -Michael Beck We work fast and are ready to help with your sale. Call to see if our fast cash offer aligns with your home sale needs!

CALL (877) 587−0467

he Downtown Sacramento Partnership will host its annual State of Downtown event Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, from 8 to 10 a.m. at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. Presented by the Sacramento Kings, the signature program brings together public officials, business leaders and community partners to discuss the current state and future direction of downtown Sacramento. This year’s event carries added significance following the Partnership’s recent renewal for another 10 years. The 2026 State of Downtown will introduce the priorities, strategies and initiatives guiding the next decade of investment in Sacramento’s urban core. Reflecting that milestone, the theme

n SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

Solution to Puzzle 1

“Downtown’s Next Decade” sets the stage for a forward-looking vision, highlighting efforts to build a clean and safe central city while, alongside partners, cultivating a vibrant 24-hour destination where innovation, culture and commerce converge. Additional details will be released in January. Tickets are available now, and attendance is limited. Tickets can be purchased at events.humanitix. com/state-of-downtown-2026. The 2026 State of Downtown program is presented by the Sacramento Kings and sponsored by the Athletics, Tsakopoulos Investments, Five Star Bank, Kaiser Permanente, SMUD and others. For more information about downtown Sacramento, visit downtownsac.org. Details about the State of Downtown are available at downtownsac.org/downtown-sacexperiences/state-of-downtown.

Solution to Puzzle 2

mtdemocrat.com

Know

Mountain Democrat Wednesday, December 31, 2025 B7

Continued from B1

perform, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at Quick Quack Car Wash on Cameo Drive at 4:30 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.

Billy Williams Band will perform from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom will host Shen Yun 2026 China before Communism at 2 and 7 p.m. and Wednesday at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Jan. 4 Ed Wilson will play at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino from 2-5 p.m. Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom will host VITA Academy presents Great Composer Chamber Music Series “Rising Stars of Chamber Music” at 2 p.m. and the Folsom Concert Association presents The Hit Men of Country at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter. net.

Jan. 7 Broadway at Music Circus presents “Disney’s The Lion King” through Jan. 25 at the UC Davis Health pavilion in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento. com.

Jan. 8

Jan. 5

Join Barton Health for the Wellness Webinar: Supporting healthy weight management in adolescents from 5-6 p.m. via Zoom. To register, visit BartonHealth.org.

Monday Open Mic Night hosted by Garratt Wilkin will take place, 5-9 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

8 p.m. to midnight at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar. For more information visit redhawkcasino. com. Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents Anne Wilson 11th annual Gala at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Jan. 10 The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host a free Christmas Tree Recycling event at the Community Park North lot from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org. The Sacramento Guitar Society presents Jack Cimo in concert from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at Tim’s Music in Sacramento. For more information visit sacguitarsociety. org.

Jan. 11 Luke and Kaylee Holiday Show will take place, 2-4 p.m. and Irish Trad Session hosted by John O’Connell will take place 5-8 p.m. at The Green Room Social

Jan. 6 The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host New Year, New Budget: Building a Financial Plan That Sticks from 11 a.m. to noon via Zoom. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.

The Nickel Slots + ROADS + Brocky & Cosmic Tom will perform, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

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.

Steppin’ Out will perform from

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom will host Folsom Lake Symphony’s Young Artists Recital at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Jan. 12 Vitalant will hold a blood drive at the District Church, 7000 Rossmore Lane, El Dorado Hills, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. To make an appointment use code SMFR481 and call (877) 2584825 or visit donors.vitalant.org. Night Owls will perform from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar. For more information visit redhawkcasino. com. The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley presents John McCutcheon - KVMR Fundraiser at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org. Monday Open Mic Night hosted by Garratt Wilkin will

The Georgetown Divide Public Utility District

Jan. 9 The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host January HWY 50 Corridor Power Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Viscuso’s Pizza & Draft House in El Dorado Hills. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.

Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

invites applications for the position of: One full-Time ADMINISTRATIVE AIDE I: $24.68 to $30.00 per hour plus benefits, depending on qualifications. OPENING DATE: December 3, 2025 FINAL FILING DATE: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. First review date for applications will be held on January 5, 2026. An application can be printed from the District website at www.gd-pud.org or request an application by emailing Stephanie Beck at slbeck@gd-pud.org. Return a completed application to the District office by mail, or email to: slbeck@gd-pud.org. Georgetown Divide Public Utility District P.O. Box 4240, Georgetown, CA. 95634 For further information call (530) 333-4356 or visit our website at www.gd-pud.org

Premier Business Directory

take place, 5-9 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Jan. 13 Join the Placerville Family Search Center for AI Research Assisting in Family Trees at 1 p.m. at 3275 Cedar Ravine Road. The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting Event at Daycation Senior Activity Center at 4 p.m. at 3860 El Dorado Hills Blvd, El Dorado Hills and How to Market Your Business in a Rural Area at 3581 Palmer Drive, Suite 101, Cameron Park from 5:30-6:30 p.m. For more information call (530) 6778000 or visit sscpchamber.org.

drive at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District Park, 1021 Harvard Way, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. To make an appointment use code SMFM019 and call (877) 258-4825 or visit donors.vitalant.org. The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Luncheon with guest speaker Maia Schneider of Marshall Medical from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Koto Buffet at Red Hawk. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org. Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical” through Jan. 18. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Now Placerville Friends of Tibet is

Jan. 15

n See KNOW, page B8

Vitalant will hold a blood

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To advertise, call (530) 344-5028

DIAL-A-PRO ads are listings of local professionals in all trades. Call (530) 344-5028 to place your ad today! Construction

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CC GENERAL BUILDING CONTRACTORS

Decks • Over Hangs • Arbors • Fences • New Construction Remodels, Painting, etc. • Full Design Services Available In-home inspection for new buyers. Don’t get cheated, make sure you’re getting what you’re paying for with an unbiased home inspection. John and Sarah Camara, Owners Licensed, Bonded & Insured • Lic. #729819 Placerville, California Over 30 Years Experience

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• Painting • Drywall • Carpentry • Flooring • Decks • Fencing • Plumbing Reasonable Rates • Electrical • Pressure Washing • Stucco • Cabinets References available Unlicensed Contractor

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upon request

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• Deck Construction • Bathroom Remodel • Kitchen Remodel • New Remodel & ADU Builds

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B8 Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Know

Continued from B7

seeking volunteers for the January 2026 tour. Contact Danya Waters at (530) 5751879 or danyawaters@gmail.

com. For more information visit placervillefriendsoftibet.org. Arts and Culture El Dorado hosts “In the Meadow” presented

by the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians in partnership with concept:art+movement, through Jan. 11 at

Public Notices  SUMMONS (DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESTRAINING ORDER) CASE NO. 25FL0999 Superior Court of California County of El Dorado 295 Fair Lane Branch Placerville, CA 95667 1. Person asking for protection: Marian Burgess 2. Notice to: Michael Walker The person in 1 is asking for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order against you. 3. You have a court date Date: 2/5/26 Time: 1:30 pm Dept.: 8 What if I don’t go to my court date? If you do not go to your court date, the judge can grant a restraining order that limits your contact with the person in 1. If you have a child with the person in 1, the court may make orders to limit your time with your child. Having a restraining order against you may impact your life in other ways, including preventing you from having guns and ammunition. If you do not go to your court date, the judge could grant everything that the person in 1 asked the judge to order. How do I find out what the person in 1 is asking for? To find out what the person in 1 is asking the judge to order, go to the courthouse listed at the top of page 1. Ask the court clerk to let you see your case file. You will need to give the court clerk your case number, which is listed above and on page 1. The request for restraining order will be on form DV-100, Request for Domestic Violence Restraining Order. Where can I get help? Free legal information is available at your local court’s self-help center. Go to www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp to find your local center. Do I need a lawyer? You are not required to have a lawyer, but you may want legal advice before your court hearing. For help finding a lawyer, you can visit www.lawhelpca.org or contact your local bar association. Date: DEC 18 2025 Clerk, by _______, Deputy [COURT SEAL] 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14, 1/21/26 15416 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1152 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: BOBBY SOX AND FLOWER GOAT MILK SOAP, located at 4076 Moon Flower Lane, Pollock Pines, CA 95726 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Kimberly A Tank, 4076 Moon Flower Lane, Pollock Pines, CA 95726 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/02/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Kimberly A Tank KIMBERLY A TANK, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/02/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15462 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1160 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: I9 SPORTS, located at 4465 Dunnwood Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: R6 Elevate Partners LLC, 4465 Dunnwood Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: ____ The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/05/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Ronnie Belza RONNIE BELZA, MANAGING MEMBER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/05/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT

WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15463 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1145 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NATURESCAPE AND MASONRY, located at 5220 Pony Back Ct, Cool, CA 95614 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Dean A Moon, 5220 Pony Back Ct, Cool, CA 95614 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/01/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Dean A Moon DEAN A MOON I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/01/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15464 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV2956 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Maegan Rose Prescott filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: MAEGAN ROSE PRESCOTT Proposed name: MADISYN ROSE CLARK 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: JANUARY 2, 2026, 8:35 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682. 3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on NOVEMBER 4, 2025. /s/ Gary Slossberg GARY SLOSSBERG, Judge of the Superior Court 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15465 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1120 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: NATIONAL REAL ESTATE MARKET ADVISORS, located at 2008 Haeling Pl, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: 1. John S Krueger, 2008 Haeling Pl, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762, 2. Jennifer M Krueger, 2008 Haeling Pl, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 This business is conducted by a Married Couple The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 11/01/2018 Signature of Registrant: /s/ John S Krueger JOHN S KRUEGER, CEO/ FOUNDER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).)

Switchboard Gallery. Visit artsandcultureeldorado.org. The Atrium at EDH Town Center and EDH Arts Association

hosts “All The Leaves Are Gone” through Jan. 18. Visit edhtowncenter.com. El Dorado County Historical

Society presents “Snowbound, Historical Vignettes of Winter Sports and Leisure” through Feb. 16. Visit edchs.org.

• E-mail your public notice to legals@mtdemocrat.net • Be sure to include your name and phone number

This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 11/20/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15466 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1091 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: EVERBLOOM HOLISTIC SKIN, located at 5465 Merchant Circle Suite 3, Placerville, CA 95667/Mailing Address: 3212 Running Quail Ct, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Elliot Valdes, 3212 Running Quail Ct, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 10/21/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Elliot Valdes ELLIOT VALDES, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 11/13/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15467 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1155 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DEEP ZEN, located at 835 Lotus Rd #1, Coloma, CA 95613/Mailing Address: PO Box 83, Coloma, CA 95613 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Karissa Anderson, 835 Lotus Rd #1, Coloma, CA 95613 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/04/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Karissa Anderson KARISSA ANDERSON, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/04/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15468 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1119 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: SDP SOLUTIONS, located at 2559 Prescott Ave, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing

Address: Timothy J Kelly, 2559 Prescott Ave, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 08/01/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Timothy J Kelly TIMOTHY J KELLY I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 11/20/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/10, 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15469 T.S. NO.: 25-15218 LOAN NO.: ******6655 APN: 070-121-032-000 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 9/23/2021. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: HUSAYN JOHNATHAN CAMPBELL, A SINGLE MAN, AND SANELA BESIC, A SINGLE WOMAN, AS JOINT TENANTS Duly Appointed Trustee: Prestige Default Services, LLC Recorded 9/24/2021 as Instrument No. 2021-0061076 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of El Dorado County, California, Date of Sale: 1/13/2026 at 10:00 AM Place of Sale: AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE COUNTY COURTHOUSE 495 MAIN STREET, PLACERVILLE, CA 95667 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $848,198.02 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 4100 BLACK OAK DR SHINGLE SPRINGS, California 95682 A.P.N.: 070-121-032-000 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. All checks payable to Prestige Default Services, LLC. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee,

beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (949) 776-4697 or visit this Internet Website https:// prestigepostandpub.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-15218. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (949) 776-4697, or visit this internet website https:// prestigepostandpub.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-15218 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Date: 12/9/2025 Prestige Default Services, LLC 1920 Old Tustin Ave. Santa Ana, California 92705 Questions: 949-427-2010 Sale Line: (949) 776-4697 Martha Nuno, Senior Foreclosure Coordinator PPP #25-009296 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15485 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1176 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 1. BOONE’S FORESTRY ENTERPRISES, 2. BOONE’S FORESTRY & EARTHWORK, located at 4859 Somerset Loop, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Joshua B McRoberts Trucking LLC, 4859 Somerset Loop, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 06/30/2018 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Joshua McRoberts JOSHUA MCROBERTS MANAGING MEMBER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/10/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/17, 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7/26 15486 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1180 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DOWELLS PAINTING, located at 3182 Airport Rd, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Joshua R Dowell, 3182 Airport Rd, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/01/2024 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Joshua R Dowell JOSHUA DOWELL, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).)

This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/11/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/17, 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7/26 15487 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1183 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: MAJESTIC PAINTERS, located at 2580 Pendleton Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Capurro Enterprises Inc, 2580 Pendleton Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 This business is conducted by a Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/01/2010 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Nicholas L Capurro Jr NICHOLAS L CAPURRO JR, CEO I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/11/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/17, 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7/26 15488 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF RONALD DWAYNE SALZMANN CASE NO. 25PR0278 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of RONALD DWAYNE SALZMANN A PETITION for Probate has been filed by PATRICIA ANN SALZMANN in the Superior Court of California, County of El Dorado. THE PETITION for probate requests that PATRICIA ANN SALZMANN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: January 5, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 9 at 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person Legal notice continued on the next page

mtdemocrat.com

Public Notices  interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: ROBERT M. LOGAN 404 Natoma Street Folsom, California 95630 (916) 351-0197 12/17, 12/24, 12/31 15490 T.S. NO.: 25-15075 LOAN NO.: **9694 APN: 062-111-025-000 AKA (062-111-25-100) NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 10/22/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: John Babish And Patricia Babish Duly Appointed Trustee: Prestige Default Services, LLC Recorded 11/27/2007 as Instrument No. 2007-0073510-00 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of El Dorado County, California, Date of Sale: 1/20/2026 at 10:00 AM Place of Sale: AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE COUNTY COURTHOUSE 495 MAIN S T R E E T, PLACERVILLE, CA 95667 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $694,868.04 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 4300 SWEETBRIAR LANE Garden Valley, CA 95633-9207 A.P.N.: 062-111-025-000 aka (062-111-25-100) The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. All checks payable to Prestige Default Services, LLC. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (949) 776-4697 or visit this Internet Website https:// prestigepostandpub.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-15075. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (949) 776-4697, or visit this internet website https:// prestigepostandpub.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-15075 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s

sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Date: 12/12/2025 Prestige Default Services, LLC 1920 Old Tustin Ave. Santa Ana, California 92705 Questions: 949-427-2010 Sale Line: (949) 776-4697 Nida Taylor, Foreclosure Coordinator PPP #25-009466 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7/26 15496 NOTICE OF LIEN SALE Advertisement is hereby given that the below storage facility(s) will sell on or after Thursday the 8th of January 2026 at 10:00 AM, with bidding to take place on storagetreasures.com the following liened property. iStorage, 5110 Hillsdale Cir. El Dorado Hills CA 95762. Anton Hartmann, Anton Hartmann, Anton Hartmann, Anton Hartmann, Anton Hartmann 12/31 15502 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1203 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: FAYE THYME EVENTS, located at 3916 Cedar Ravine Rd, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Rebecca May L Britschgi, 3916 Cedar Ravine Rd, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/17/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Rebecca May Britschgi REBECCA MAY BRITSCHGI I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/17/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15504 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1191 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: DYSLEXIA CONSULTANTS OF NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, located at 4200 Sara Lane, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Clare L Gavin, 3916 Cedar Ravine Rd, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 03/01/1976 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Clare L Gavin CLARE L GAVIN I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/12/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15505 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV3380 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Cathleen Copeland Fink filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: CATHLEEN COPELAND FINK Proposed name: CATHLEEN MARIE COPELAND 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show

Mountain Democrat Wednesday, December 31, 2025 B9

• E-mail your public notice to legals@mtdemocrat.net • Be sure to include your name and phone number

cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: JANUARY 30, 2026, 8:35 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682. 3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on DECEMBER 17, 2025. /s/ Gary Slossberg GARY SLOSSBERG, Judge of the Superior Court 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15506 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1166 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: ALL CYCLES, located at 3241 South St., Georgetown, CA 95634/Mailing Address: 7911 Jacobsen Ct., Sacramento, CA 95829 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: R S Dosanjh Enterprise Inc., 7911 Jacobsen Ct., Sacramento, CA 95829 This business is conducted by a Limited Liability Company, State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 09/19/1990 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Ravdeep Dosanjh RAVDEEP DOSANJH, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/08/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15507 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV3412 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Carrie Hastings Contreras filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: CARRIE HASTINGS CONTRERAS Proposed name: CARRIE CONTRERAS 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: FEBRUARY 6, 2026, 8:35 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682. 3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on DECEMBER 19, 2025. /s/ Gary Slossberg GARY SLOSSBERG, Judge of the Superior Court 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15514 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1198 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 1. DISTRICT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, 2. THE ACADEMY AT DISTRICT CHURCH, located at 7000 Rossmore Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Lakehills Community Covenant Church, 7000 Rossmore Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 This business is conducted by a Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Reid McNulty REID MCNULTY, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who

declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/16/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15515 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1186 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: UMALCHEMY, located at 3350 Rolls Drive, Cameron Park, CA 95682 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Danica U Doraikkannan, 3350 Rolls Drive, Cameron Park, CA 95682 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/03/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Danica Doraikkannan DANICA DORAIKKANNAN, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/11/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15516 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1170 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: PRO-LINE SITE SERVICES, located at 444 Pleasant Valley Rd, Suite A, Diamond Springs, CA 95619/ Mailing Address: PO Box 850, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Pro-Line Cleaning Services, Inc., PO Box 850, Diamond Springs, CA 95619 This business is conducted by a Corporation, State of Incorporation: California The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/09/2020 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Paul Funk PAUL FUNK, PRESIDENT I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/09/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15517 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1211 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: 1. VAROZZA BAIL BONDS, 2. JOSHUA VAROZZA

BAIL BONDS, 3. TAMI VAROZZA BAIL BONDS, located at 410 Vernon Street, Roseville, CA 95678 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Varozza Consulting Services, 410 Vernon Street, Roseville, CA 95678 This business is conducted by a Corporation, State of Incorporation: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 05/01/2015 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Joshua Varozza JOSHUA VAROZZA, CEO I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/19/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15518 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1212 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: THE THRIFTED CAT, located at 369 Main Street, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Madison Stakich, 369 Main Street, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Madison Stakich MADISON STAKICH, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/19/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15519 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-1189 The following person(s) is/are doing business as: HARMONY ROOF MANAGEMENT, located at 4005 Bluff Road, Placerville, CA 95667 Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Douglas E Hamilton, 4005 Bluff Road, Placerville, CA 95667 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: Not Applicable Signature of Registrant: /s/ Douglas E Hamilton DOUGLAS E HAMILTON, OWNER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 12/12/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF

ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 12/24, 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15520 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25CV3376 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: Kori Lisa Van Pelt filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: KORI LISA VAN PELT KORI LISA LANDEIS-ENGEL Proposed name: KORI ENGEL 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: FEBRUARY 13, 2026, 8:30 A.M. DEPT. 9 AT SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF EL DORADO, 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682. 3. A copy of the ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Mountain Democrat. This order has been filed on DECEMBER 17, 2025. /s/ Gary Slossberg GARY SLOSSBERG, Judge of the Superior Court 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14, 1/21/26 15524 NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given pursuant to California Business and Professional Codes #2170021716, Section 2328 of the UCC of the Penal Code, Section 535 the undersigned, Missouri Flat Storage Depot, will sell at public sale by competitive bidding the personal property of: Sergio Cano, Damion Nelson, Enrique Castellanos Property to be sold: May contain the following: Misc. household goods, furniture, boxes & contents. Auctioneer Company: www.selfstorageauction.com The Sale will end: Thursday January 15, 2026 Goods must be paid in CASH and removed at completion of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Missouri Flat Storage Depot 4680 Missouri Flat Road Placerville, CA 95667 530-626-0346 12/31/25, 1/7/26 15525 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF HWA CHA CROUCH CASE NO. 25PR0342 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of HWA CHA CROUCH A PETITION for Probate has been filed by MONICA CHAIDEZ and PAMELA LEONARD in the Superior Court of California, County of El Dorado. THE PETITION for probate requests that MONICA CHAIDEZ and PAMELA LEONARD be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: February 2, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 9 at 2927 Meder Road, Cameron Park, CA 95682 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: CLARA YANG 2810 Coloma Street, Suite A Placerville, CA 95667 (530) 621-3624 12/31/25, 1/7, 1/14/26 15526

B10 Wednesday, December 31, 2025 Mountain Democrat mtdemocrat.com

Thu 1/01 Editor's Pick Big Sandy & His Fly-Rite Boys @ 2:30pm Torch Club, 904 15th St, Sacra‐ mento

Punk Rock Time Machine @ 8pm The Hotel Utah Saloon, 500 4th St, San Francisco

Featured

Kevin Knapp: It's A New Day @ 2:30pm The Great Northern, 119 Utah St, San Francisco ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

The Hunger Games - Film @ 7pm Crest Theatre, 1013 K Street, Sacramento

@ 8am / Free

Chickenbone Slim And The Biscuits: Four Corners Speakeasy

Holly Park Picnic Area, 321 Holly Park Circle, San Francisco. 415876-3764

@ 7pm Four Corners Speakeasy, Vallejo

Cherry Pie

@ 9pm Monarch, 101 6th St, //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// San Fran‐ cisco Alex Ramon "Magic" @ 7pm Crest Theater, 1013 K Street, Sacramento

Strength & Balance Class @ 10:15am New �tness class for adults at the Woodland Community & Senior Center: Strength & Balance Wood‐ land Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�t ness68@gmail.com

DJ Dave Paul: Pop Life San Francisco

Rotary Club of Davis Weekly Lunch & Program @ 12pm See website for details. ro‐ taryclubofdavis.com Davis Com‐ munity Church, 421 D Street, Davis. spshoe@mac.com

@ 9pm f8, 1192 Folsom St, San Francisco

Class

@ 1:15pm Free Strength & Balance class at the Davis Lutheran Church Davis Madrone Art Bar, 500 Divisadero Lutheran Church ELCA, 317 East St, San Francisco 8th Street, Davis. tina�tness68@ //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// gmail.com The Prince and Michael

Experience: Pop Life - San

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Featured

Mahjong Mondays

@ 9pm Monarch, 101 6th St, San Fran‐ cisco

@ 2:55pm / Free Jan 5th - May 29th Holly Park Picnic Area, 321 Holly //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Park Circle, San Francisco. 415Lakeside Laughs Comedy 876-3764

@ 11pm 1015 Folsom, 1015 Folsom St, San Francisco

Club

Jan 5th - May 29th Holly Park Picnic Area, 321 Holly Park Circle, San Francisco. 415//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 876-3764

@ 10am Join us in person to celebrate the fresh new look at the WOF Reno‐ vation Dedication Ceremony! Word of Faith Christian Center, 650 Parker Road, Fair�eld. ataylor@ wofccfair�eld.com, 707-437-2257

Tina Fitness is now offering chil‐ dren's Kung Fu classes at the Davis Arts Center! Davis Arts Cen‐ ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. duanke jie68@gmail.com

Featured

Xavier Mortimer: Master of Magic

@ 6:30pm Punch Line Sacramento Callback Bar, Sacramento ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

awakebutstillinbed @ 6:30pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

"OffDaChange" Show featuring Steph Sanders & Friends @ 7:30pm Punch Line Comedy Club Sacramento, Sacramento Chelsea Bearce: Off Da Change @ 7:30pm Punch Line Sacramento, 2100 Ar‐ den Way Ste 225, Sacramento

Matt Kirshen

Chris //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Botti

@ 7:30pm @ 2pm SF Jazz Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, 3301 Center Lyon Street, San Francisco Miner Audi‐ //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// torium, 201 Monsters Inc Franklin Street, San Fran‐ @ 2pm cisco Crest Theater, Sacramento

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@ 2pm Crest Theatre, 1013 K Street, Sacramento

The

Charlene Will: Here for a While

@ 11:30am Jan 9th Feb 28th Come see the solo exhibit by Charlene Will, recipient of the 2025 Pence Gallery Emerging Artist Award! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocial media@gmail.com, 530758-3370 Live@DCC Free Noon Con‐ cert, January 9: TriMusica! @ 12pm Live@DCC Second Friday Free Noon Concerts present TriMusica, with clarinetist Sandra McPherson, cellist Susan Lamb Cook, and pi‐ anist John Cozza at the Davis Community Church, 4th and "C" Street 1/9. Davis Community Church, Davis. luannhiggs@ gmail.com, 916-600-8872

Region All-Breed and House‐ hold Pet Cat Show

@ 10am / $15 CFA All-breed and House‐ hold Pet Fundraiser Cat Show! Up to 149 Pedigree cats and Household pets compete for Best in 6 dif‐ ferent rings. Great Ven‐ dors, Orphan Kitten Res‐ cue and Cat Costume Contest. Dixon May Fair, 655 South 1st Street, Dixon. vjlawdui@ gmail.com, 510-755-8123 Deeper in Zen @ 9pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco

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Galactic Illumination @ 9pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco

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Dylalien @ 9pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco

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Hatter @ 9pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco

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Yamagucci @ 9pm Madarae, 46 Minna St, San Fran‐ cisco

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Discnogirl

@ 10pm //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

@ 2pm Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco

Monsters Inc - Film

Featured

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Xavier Mortimer The Dream Maker

Intermediate Tai Chi

@ 6pm Arbor, 384 Hayes St, San Francisco

Children's Kung Fu Classes at the Davis Arts Center

Sun 1/04

@ 5:30pm SacYard Community Tap House, 1725 33rd St, Sacramento Meandering Scars - Film

Dave Ricketts Music: Dave Ricketts at Arbor SF

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@ 3:15pm ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Renovation Dedication Ceremony

Fri 1/09

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@ 9:30pm Boom Boom Room, 1601 Fillmore St, San Francisco

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@ 9am Tai chi classes offered at the Woodland Community & Senior Center Woodland Community & //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Sadness Woodland. tina�tness68@ @ 6pm gmail.com CFA Thee Parkside, 1600 17th St, San //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Northwest Francisco

Featured

@ 11pm 888 Garage, San Francisco

Matt Axton

Shen Yun

Dolores Huerta x Tree Frog Treks Afterschool Program Winter/Spring '26 (2nd-5th //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Grade Group) Robert Gastelum & Friends @ 2:55pm / Free

PURA Saturdays (21+ Event)

Featured

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Walker & Royce

Featured

@ 9:30pm The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco

@ 9:30pm The Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe

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

Fri 1/02

@ 2pm Two types of gymnastics classes for children offered Wednesdays at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. du ankejie68@gmail.com

Open Mic hosted by Marcus Mangham - in the Callback Bar ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Dolores Huerta x Tree Frog Treks Afterschool Program //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Winter/Spring '26 (K-1st Huffy Grade Group)

@ 11pm 1015 Fol‐ som, 1015 Folsom St, San Fran‐ cisco Kym Sims

The Lucky Losers: The Saloon San Francisco

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@ 2pm Jan 5th - Jan 26th Chateau Buena Vista, 1142 First Street, Napa. CustomerService@ //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Boisset.com On the Rocks @ 9pm Madrone Art Bar, 500 Divisadero St, San Francisco

@ 9pm Monarch, 101 6th St, San Fran‐ cisco

Crystal Waters

Children's Gymnastics Classes

@ 2pm //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Harris Center, 10 College Parkway, FREE Strength & Balance Folsom

@ 9pm ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Michael Leathers - artist: Strut SF & F8 Present NYD 2026 Sun Down Get Down

Chickenbone Slim And The Biscuits bring their gritty blend of blues, roots and rock ’n’ roll to the Four Corners Speakeasy in Vallejo. Fronted by Chickenbone Slim’s raw vocals and driving harmonica, the band draws on Chicago blues, West Coast swing and jump blues to deliver a high-energy, danceready show.

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@ 7:30pm The Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe

Friday Jan 9th

Editor's Voice

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The Hunger Games

J Serra Annex x Tree Frog Treks Before School Pro‐ gram Winter/Spring 2026

Tue 1/06

Beginning + Intermediate Tai Chi

@ 7:30pm Cobb's Comedy Club, 915 Colum‐ bus Ave, San Francisco

Free Tai Chi Classes for Beginners

@ 3pm Beginning FREE tai chi classes of‐ fered at the Davis Lutheran Church //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Davis Lutheran Church ELCA, 317 Matt Kirshen & Friends East 8th Street, Davis. tina�t @ 7:30pm ness68@gmail.com Cobb's Comedy Club, San Fran‐ cisco

@ 8:30pm Bottom Of the Hill, 1233 17th St, San Francisco

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

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Spencer Noble

The Great Northern, 119 Utah St, San Francisco