Council seeks a streamlined approach to city historic districts
The Placerville City Council is seeking a more streamlined approach to historic district preservation that balances protecting significant historical resources with reducing the burden on property owners, sta and the Planning Commission.
During its June 23 meeting, the council reviewed an update from the Planning Commission on ongoing e orts to improve the city’s historical preservation process and directed sta to relay additional guidance as the commission continues developing recommendations.
The discussion focused primarily on creating clearer standards for reviewing projects within the city’s historic districts, identifying which properties hold historical significance and allowing routine improvements to move forward more e ciently.
Development Services Director Carol Kendrick said the Planning Commission’s work followed council direction issued in October 2024 and a January 2025 city manager memorandum outlining four areas for review: improving public knowledge of historic districts, updating the city’s Historic Resources Inventory, evaluating possible ordinance
■ See HISTORIC DISTRICTS, page A9
Judge steps back from sex abuse case
Lance Armstrong Sta writer
El Dorado County Superior Court Judge Jamie L. Pesce has recused herself from the criminal case of Paul Varo , a former high school band teacher who is accused of having committed sex crimes against a minor.
With Varo and defense attorney David Brooks appearing in a Placerville courtroom for a prepreliminary session on July 10, Pesce shared that Deputy District Attorney Kassie Cardullo had been vertically assigned to the case.
“The court refers to the presiding judge (Michael J. McLaughlin) for reassignment,” Pesce said.
“Council will be notified of the new department and the date in a minute order.”
Brooks suggested to Pesce that the court could resume the case on Aug. 7.
“We’ll put that in there as an agreed upon date,”
■ See JUDGE, page A2
Local wineries adjust to changing industry, look to county for help
Shelly Thorene Sta writer
Shifting consumer preferences, rising costs and competition from low-cost imports, among other factors, have put a cork in the enthusiasm of El Dorado County wine grape growers and winery owners.
Seeking to diversify, agritorusim business owners are coping by cutting acreage, production facilities and costs while looking to boost sales by emphasizing premium wines, wine clubs, tourism experiences and direct customer relationships.
“Godfather” Brian Fitzpatrick, who in 1974 established the first winery in the Fair Play American Viticultural Area area (since the Gold Rush) said Baby Boomers embraced wine and fueled the growth of wineries.
“Now, other generations have a lot of choices, with craft beer and canned beverages,” he told the Mountain Democrat. “The dynamics have changed. The
wine consumer in El Dorado County wants moderately priced wines and they are looking for a story. People want a connection to what they are consuming.”
According to agricultural news source AGDAILY, the California wine industry is the fourth largest producer in the
world with $73 billion in annual economic activity and $25.9 billion in wages. However, in 2024, California recorded its lightest wine grape crush in 20 years and 350,000 tons of wine grapes were left on the vine
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District Board of Directors has authorized the release of the administrative draft initial study/negative declaration — a document prepared in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act that examines potential environmental impacts related to incorporation.
The conclusion of the report prepared by Environmental Science Associates: Cityhood does “not have a significant e ect on the environment.”
Jon Teofilo with ESA noted the study
does not consider future construction, rezoning, subdivision or physical development in El Dorado Hills. Those actions will be individually reviewed by a future city council and sta .
“Future discretionary actions are not dismissed, but they are subject to CEQA later,” Teofilo said.
The document will be posted online at eldoradohillscsd.org for public review. The public and local agencies will have 30 days to comment. After the comment period closes, comments will be evaluated and issues considered before the EDHCSD board adopts the final environmental document.
ESA’s review included 20 focus areas ranging from biological resources to wildfire and recreation. The consultant also reached out to Tribal representatives. The consultation concluded with no outstanding issues or requested mitigation measures.
The study is part of an existing contract with ESA — contract amount “not to exceed” $67,000 — for which half is funded by the CSD and half funded by the El Dorado Hills Citizens for Cityhood through a separate agreement.
Cityhood proponent Chris Nicholson
■ See STUDY, page A2
Andrew Vonderschmitt
Features editor
Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene
Boeger Winery owner and farmer Greg Boeger, left, and his daughter Lexi, director of Sales and Marketing, are putting their heads together to come up with new ideas to attract visitors. Greg paused for a photo while tilling an area to prepare it for pumpkins after old growth grapevines planted in the 1970s were removed.
DON’T MISS
ESSENTIALS
Cletus Raymond Hohn
Nov. 6, 1935 – April 6, 2026
Cletus Raymond Hohn passed away peacefully in his home with his family by his side. He was 90 years old.
Cletus was born in 1935 in Dimock, South Dakota and later moved to California, living in Hayward, Fremont and then settling in Somerset with his wife Marlene Fae who preceded him in death on June 23, 2012.
Cletus is survived by three of his four children, Yvonne Bonham, Vicki Pierson, and Steven Hohn. Ronald Hohn preceded him in death on October 26, 2023. Cletus and Marlene had 10 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
Cletus loved to fish and go camping with his family who he loved dearly. Cletus worked as a truck driver for Sterling Transit company for 30 years. Although Cletus is now resting in the arms of Jesus, he will be greatly missed by his many friends and loving family.
Cletus had a Catholic graveside service in Placerville, Ca and a gathering of friends and family at his daughter Vicki Pierson’s home.
Meredith Bouley Hoag
Jan. 30, 1954 – July 5, 2026
Meredith Bouley Hoag, known to family and friends as Merry, passed away on July 5, 2026 at the age of 72 in Somerset, CA. Merry was a wife, mother, sister, and friend to all (people and animals).
Born in Warwick, RI and raised in Branford, CT, Merry was the youngest of four children to Muriel (Faulds) and Thomas Bouley. Merry’s love for animals, and in particular horses, was her defining passion. Much of her childhood was spent learning about horsemanship from her neighbor Mr. Blackstone, and riding and caring for his horse, Lucky. As a teenager and into early adulthood, Merry was often found riding her horse, Filly, with her beloved dog, Happy, running alongside them. She attended college at Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut, and after graduating with degrees in recreation and landscape design, she met and married her husband George Hoag.
Merry and George settled in Storrs, CT, where they built a horse farm in 1983 and raised their children, Jess and Austin. Merry was active in the equestrian community in CT, competing in eventing and dressage competitions and volunteering, including serving as president for the CT Dressage & Combined Training Association. Her interests expanded into co-counseling and equine therapy, where she found a community to dedicate herself to helping others, in particular children and teens experiencing challenging circumstances.
Merry and George were known for opening their home to family and friends, hosting Thanksgiving gatherings for over 10 years, and operating for a time as a bed and breakfast inn. The family moved to El Dorado Hills, CA in 2022, where Merry spent more recent years celebrating time with her grandchildren, exploring the West Coast, teaching watercolor classes, and riding her horse, Sassy. Merry is survived by her husband of 43 years, George Hoag, her children Jess and Austin, daughters-in-law Jessie and Maggie, and her two treasured and beloved grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Margaret Voss Howard (John), brother Paul Bouley (Sherry), and sisterin-law Jane Peterson Bouley, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives whom she loved dearly. She was predeceased by her brother Robert Bouley. She also leaves behind a wide circle of lifelong friends whose lives were enriched by her creative and generous spirit, boundless energy, and kind heart.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to be made to High Hopes, highhopestr. org/appeal/gifts-in-honor. greenvalleymortuary.com.
Bud Allen McClintock
Aug. 7, 1951 – June 8, 2026
Bud Allen McClintock, 74, of El Dorado, California, passed away on June 8, 2026. Born August 7, 1951, in San Jose, he was known for his generous spirit, steady warmth, and deep love for family and friends.
Bud began working in the produce business while attending Pioneer High School and remained dedicated to the industry throughout his life. On April 26, 1975, he married Patricia Roelofs, with whom he shared 51 years of devotion, humor, and partnership. The couple moved to El Dorado in 1986, creating a home filled with welcome and connection.
A lifelong San Francisco 49ers and Giants fan, Bud cheered faithfully through every season. He also loved fishing and found joy in the quiet moments spent on the water. Music was another of his passions, and he especially enjoyed dancing — particularly to Frank Sinatra, whose songs will forever bring his memory to mind.
Bud is survived by his wife, Patricia; and his sisters, Shirley Esperanca, Trish Howard, and Sonya Butler. He will be deeply missed by his extended family and many friends.
A service will be held July 25 at 1:00 p.m. at Faith Episcopal Church in Cameron Park.
Arthur Spencer Patterson
Sept. 30, 1928 – June 10, 2026
Arthur Spencer Patterson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on June 10, 2026, at the age of 97. Born on September 30, 1928, in Evansville, Indiana, Art was the dear son of Jesse Patterson and Mildred Norwood.
Art led a life marked by service, dedication, and love. At the tender age of 17, he bravely joined the Army and served in Japan during World War II. His commitment to his country continued as he joined the Air Force Reserves and was called to active duty in Korea, eventually retiring during the Vietnam War in 1969. Following his distinguished military career, Art became a deputy sheri in Red Blu , California, and later ventured into entrepreneurship, running a successful Food Distribution business.
Art’s personal life was as fulfilled as his professional one. He was first married in 1950, a union that blessed him with three wonderful children over 25 years. Life took him on another journey when he met and married his cherished Judith in 1988, sharing their lives on a beautiful 10-acre property in Grizzly Flats, where they built a home and tended to horses.
A man of the community, Art was actively involved in his church, the Chamber of Commerce, Ride and Shine, plus numerous charitable organizations. He served on the board for the El Dorado Food Bank and was a compassionate advocate for veterans, assisting them in navigating essential services. His leadership and kindness extended to his community at Ponte Palmero, where he served as President, Vice President, and Community Relations, bringing people together with his weekly Co ee & Donuts gatherings and coordinating flower donations.
Art is remembered for his quick wit and his remarkable ability to connect with people of all ages. His life was enriched by his love of camping, trail riding, and the company of animals, and his spirit of generosity and humor touched many lives. Preceded in death by his wife Judith, his son Randy Patterson, his brother Norwood, and his son-in-law Harvey Camacho, Art’s legacy lives on in his surviving family. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Debbie Camacho, daughter-in-law Kathy Jane Patterson, Michael Patterson (Kathy), Todd Brown, and Eric Brown (Maria). His memory will also be cherished by his extended family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to all those who shared in Art’s life, and invite contributions in his memory to the Food Bank of El Dorado County. They extend heartfelt thanks for the prayers, support, and kindness o ered during this time of remembrance.
Arthur Spencer Patterson will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, service, and community spirit will continue to inspire all who were blessed to share in his journey. A service to honor Art’s remarkable life will be held on August 7, 2026, at 9:30 AM at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, located at 5810 Midway Rd, Dixon, CA 95620.
Daniele Langland
Aug. 12, 1964 – June 27, 2026
Daniele Langland, beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, and friend, passed away on June 27, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 61 years old.
Born on Aug. 12, 1964, Daniele made her home in Swansboro, California, where she built a life filled with love, laughter, creativity, and lasting friendships.
Daniele was known for her kind heart, vibrant spirit, and strong determination. She worked at Liars Bench in Placerville, where she formed many meaningful friendships and touched the lives of countless people. Whether she was behind the chair as a talented hairdresser, tending to her garden, creating crafts, or spending time with her beloved dog, Daniele found joy in the simple things that made life beautiful.
Above all else, Daniele loved her family. She was a devoted daughter, loving mother, and proud grandmother. She is survived by her mother, Judy Langland; her daughter, Tania Langland; her sister Janet Langland and her cherished grandchildren, Kelsey Rose and Chase Allan Ray. Also her brother Bart Langland, Her sister-in-law Rachael, nephews Dylan and Ethan Langland and niece Kyra Langland.
Daniele will be remembered for her strength, generosity, sense of humor, and the love she shared so freely. Though her presence will be deeply missed, the memories she created and the lives she touched will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Aug. 1, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. at Liars Bench in Placerville, California. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the remarkable woman who meant so much to so many.
“Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day—unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and very dear.”
PLACERVILLE POLICE CRIME LOG
The following information was taken from PPD reports:
July 1
10:32 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Sacramento Street. 11:38 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Clay Street. 12:39 p.m. Identity theft was reported on Bedford Avenue.
1:21 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported at Broadway Drive and Schnell School Road.
■ See CRIME LOG, page A3
Study Continued from A1
urged directors to release the draft study for public review as soon as possible.
“Because LAFCO has declined to allow us to proceed with these two primary studies in parallel (environmental review and comprehensive fiscal analysis) ... any delay in completing the CEQA document will subsequently ... (delay) the CFA,” he said. “The fiscal year for the county just ended last week, so now’s the right time to be starting the CFA. If there’s significant delay on the CEQA document, that could have negative e ects that could slow down the whole process.”
The EDHCSD and cityhood committee launched this most recent incorporation process in May 2025 after months of discussion, with the district taking on lead agency status. After the application was submitted to LAFCO, ESA was hired to begin the environmental study.
While not criticizing the consultant’s work, El Dorado Hills resident Ben Glickman lamented the time and resources used on the study.
“I just did want to observe what a profoundly silly exercise this is,” he told the board. “You guys approved being the environmental agency in May 2025, so over a year ago. And it’s taken that amount of time for us to determine that changing the name of our community from the special district of El Dorado Hills to the city of El Dorado Hills, that changing the name of this building from the Norm Rowett Pavilion to Norm Rowett City Hall will not impact the environment.
“What a waste, with all due respect to the work, what a waste of time and resources — just unconscionable,” he continued. “And I would encourage everyone in our community to write your assembly person and explain just how unconscionable this is. And if you want to know why it is, talk to (the California State Association of Counties). That’s why it is. It’s just a hurdle.”
This is the second time in this century an El Dorado Hills incorporation e ort has moved forward. In 2005, the proposal fell short at the ballot box with 43.6% of voters supporting cityhood.
Judge Continued from A1
Pesce said in response.
While Pesce did not provide a specific reason for her recusal, she noted it was performed pursuant to the California code of civil procedure, section 170.1, which outlines multiple grounds for disqualifying a judge “for cause” in both civil and criminal cases.
The case against Varo began last January, following his arrest on suspicion of five counts of oral copulation of a person younger than the age of 18 and five counts of sexual penetration of a person younger than the age of 18.
According to the criminal complaint, Varo ’s alleged victim was “particularly vulnerable.”
“The manner in which the crime was carried out indicates planning, sophistication or professionalism,” the complaint notes. “The defendant took advantage of a position of trust or confidence to commit the o ense.”
It is alleged that during the period of Jan. 1 and Aug. 31, 2023, Varo , on multiple occasions, engaged in unlawful sex acts with an unidentified minor at the youth’s home in Sacramento County.
Varo is accused of having committed an act of sexual penetration against a girl – identified as J. Doe – in his o ce at Oak Ridge High School in El Dorado Hills sometime between Jan. 1 and Feb. 28, 2023.
The criminal complaint refers to two other alleged o enses as having occurred after a birthday celebration for Varo in the summer of 2023.
Varo , who retired from his high school band teacher position at the end of the 2022-23 school year, spent 27 years working for the El Dorado Union High School District.
In a statement issued by the district last January, it is mentioned that Varo occasionally worked for the district “in a limited support role” following his retirement.
Varo remains in custody at the El Dorado County Jail, where he was booked and held without bail.
New culinary and community destination planned
News release
A new culinary and community
destination is coming to Placerville and aims to bring together food, hospitality, retail and local experiences in the Sierra foothills.
ROME Real Estate Group has announced leasing opportunities for The Packing District at The Crossings, an innovative marketplace designed to bring together exceptional food, beverage, specialty retail and experiential businesses under one roof.
Strategically located within The Crossings retail center along Missouri Flat Road and near Highway 50, The Packing District is envisioned as a vibrant gathering place inspired by successful destination marketplaces such as Napa’s Oxbow Public Market. The project aims to create a unique environment where residents, visitors and tourists can connect, dine, shop and experience the best of the Sierra Foothills.
“We believe The Packing District has the opportunity to become a landmark destination for Placerville and the surrounding region,” said Kimberly Morphis, vice president at ROME Real Estate Group. “Our vision is to curate a collection of exceptional
operators that reflect the character, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the community while creating a place people return to again and again.”
The project is seeking a carefully curated mix of operators, including:
• Chef-driven restaurant concepts
• Artisan coffee and café operators
• Specialty food purveyors and gourmet markets
• Fresh produce and farm-to-table merchants
• Specialty cheese and provisions retailers
• Florists and boutique lifestyle retailers
• Gelato, dessert and confectionery concepts
• Speakeasy, wine and craft beverage operators
• Experiential and communityoriented businesses
The Packing District is positioned within one of the region’s prominent retail corridors and is expected to benefit from existing traffic as well as planned future developments nearby, including hospitality, entertainment and recreational amenities.
The neighboring 60 acres are planned for a live entertainment venue with an amphitheater, boutique hotel and luxury RV resort, creating the potential for a regional destination that attracts both local residents and visitors.
As Placerville continues to grow as a destination, The Packing District aims to become a hub for community connection, culinary discovery and local entrepreneurship. For leasing information or partnership opportunities contact Morphis, vice president at ROME Real Estate Group, at (916) 705-7807 or kimberly@romecre.com.
Funding available for Tribal-led wildfire resilience projects
SACRAMENTO —The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection recently announced the opening of a $10 million Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grant solicitation. These grants will support California Native American tribes in managing ancestral lands, implementing and promoting Traditional Ecological Knowledge for wildfire resilience and creating wildfire safety projects for Tribal and non-Tribal communities.
Funded through Proposition 4 (California Climate Bond), Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grants fund projects in cultural and prescribed fire, fuels reduction, forest resilience, restoration of culturally important ecosystems, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, training, environmental compliance and developing forest/fire management plans. These actions foster the future wellbeing of resilient ecosystems and tribal communities while also helping to mitigate climate change, protect communities from fire risk, strengthen rural
economies, revitalize traditional land management practices and improve California’s water resources and air quality.
“Cal Fire is proud to offer Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grants, which play a vital role in expanding traditional land stewardship practices to create a healthier and more resilient landscape and help protect communities,” said Chief Eric Huff, Cal Fire deputy director of Natural Resource Management.
Concept proposals are now being accepted via the Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grants webpage and must be submitted no later than noon on Wednesday Sept. 8. Full applications are expected to be invited back in October and due in December.
Cal Fire is committed to offering grant funding specifically for Tribal Wildfire Resilience projects. Since 2023, $29 million has been awarded to 22 projects across the state, with project details available on the program’s webpage.
Solving problems… it’s what we do!
Detour planned at parkway project site
News release
Segments of Bradley Drive and Throwita Way will be temporarily closed beginning July 16 as part of El Dorado County’s Diamond Springs Parkway Project. Access to the Waste Connections Material Recovery Facility will be through the new route between Highway 49 and Throwita Way. Access to Truck Street will only be available from Highway 49 during this time. Detour signage will be installed in both directions of Highway 49 approaching Bradley Drive alerting drivers to this change. This detour will remain in place for
approximately two months until the realigned segment of Bradley Drive is reconstructed to
Online office hours will be available throughout the application period. Cal Fire’s Tribal Wildfire Resilience staff will also be available to answer questions about the grant
accommodate the new Diamond Springs Parkway.
For questions about this project contact the
EID board seats up for election
News release
At the Nov. 3 General Election, voters will have the opportunity to elect two candidates to four-year terms on the El Dorado Irrigation District Board of Directors, representing Division 2 and Division 4. Division 4 includes voters in both El Dorado County and Sacramento County.
Candidates interested in running for the EID Board of Directors may obtain declaration of candidacy forms from the El Dorado County Elections Department and the Sacramento County Voter Registration and Elections Department depending n See EID, page A7
county’s Department of Transportation main line at (530) 621-5900 (select Option 3 for Engineering).
July 4
4:25 p.m.
530-626-1399 384 Placerville Dr, Ste. B • Placerville Porch Pirate Safety Zone! Now offering a SAFE place for your packages. Have your packages delivered here at NO CHARGE!
The Packing District will bring together food, beverage, specialty retail and experiential businesses under one roof in Placerville.
California Matters
Does crowning our governor the education czar mean academic results will improve?
In late June, after only a few minutes of discussion, both houses of the Legislature completely overhauled how California manages the nation’s largest public school system and its nearly 6 million students.
The votes for Assembly Bill 181 — 21-4 in the Senate and 52-4 in the Assembly — reflected a bipartisan consensus, rare for major issues, that the system has been failing California’s children. The votes were based on an implicit, perhaps even desperate, hope that streamlining administration might raise the state’s mediocre levels of academic achievement.
The measure demotes the elected state superintendent of schools from the head of the state Department of Education to a member of the state school board and replaces the superintendent with an “education commissioner” appointed by the governor.
Assemblywoman Darshana Patel, a San Diego Democrat, research scientist and local school board member, cogently expressed that hope during the Assembly’s brief floor debate.
“We can’t keep doing the same thing and expect di erent outcomes for our students, our schools and our communities. They are the ones who are the real victims of this misalignment of our systems and structures,” she said, adding, “The proposal before you today would promote a more coherent policy making. The change will allow policy makers and the public to hold the governor accountable for educational outcomes.”
School funding has increased sharply since the turn of the century, but test scores have not followed suit. Some categories, such as elementary school reading levels, remain embarrassingly low.
Letter to the Editor
Protect America’s horses
EDITOR:
Currently California is planning on removing over 200 horses on the California-Nevada border in the Montgomery Pass. This deplorable act would not only kill horses which attract tourists and money to the area, the horses are an answer to Fire control. Using the horses as a fire brigade would make sense and be cost e ective.
Additionally, I am asking for your support of the SAFE Act. The Van Drew-Titus amendment to ban transporting horses for slaughter advanced in the surface transportation bill — a major step toward long-overdue protections for America’s beloved horses. As a volunteer at a local horse rescue, owning several rescues living at my farm, and a retired teacher, we’re fighting from every
angle to stop horse slaughter, and passing the SAFE Act is another way we can reach this goal. Please support and pass the SAFE Act.
The SAFE Act would finally protect horses and the people who love them. This bipartisan bill would permanently ban slaughtering horses for human consumption in the U.S., and it would prohibit people from exporting horses abroad for that gruesome purpose.
Every horse in this country, no matter how loved, is just one bad sale away from slaughter. Americans overwhelmingly oppose horse slaughter and it is time to give them the same protection from slaughter that we give cats and dogs.
The last sentence of her remarks is the key element. While the governor has always been an important member of California’s complex education leadership structure, the multitude of ■ See WALTERS, page A5
Addressing the reasons why our kids don’t learn in school
Included in the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a dollar-fordollar tax credit, up to $1,700, for contributions to “Scholarship Granting Organizations” that parents can access and use toward paying for private school tuition and fees and other educational expenses.
The provision is constructed such that states must choose to opt in to the program, which begins January 2027.
As of this writing, per the IRS, 28 states have opted in. Of those 28, 25 are red states and three are blue — Colorado, New Hampshire and Virginia.
This partisan imbalance is no accident.
The nation’s two major teachers unions — the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association — are cash machines for the Democratic Party. And the last thing they want is parents having any say where their child receives their K-12 education.
The unions have published an “Open Letter to our Democratic
Governors” urging them to “say no to the Trump private voucher scheme.”
Per the leaders of these two unions, the signatories of the letter, “Public education ... is the foundation of a thriving democracy” and vouchers are a betrayal.
Amid the celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday, with recitals of the defining words our founding Declaration — our rights to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” — the leaders of the teachers unions declare it un-American that parents should have the right to choose how and where to educate their children.
We all should justifiably shudder that minds like this influence the majority of our nation’s children.
The results speak for themselves.
The Programme for International Student Assessment, administered by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, tests 15-year-olds in 80 countries in math, science and reading. In the latest available scores, the top five countries are Singapore, China, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea. The United States
Why are so many of our youth embracing socialism and turning away from the principles of our founding? Look no further than the vice grip unions have on our public schools.
ranks 18th behind Poland, Czechia and Denmark.
Per the OECD, U.S. education spending per student in 2025 was $20,387 compared to the OECD average of $15,022. U.S. education spending as a percent of GDP was 5.8% compared to the OECD average of 4.7%.
Per the World Bank, education spending as percent of GDP in Singapore, the country with the highest PISA score, was 2.2% in 2024, less than half that of the U.S. Analysis done at the Cato Institute shows inflation-adjusted spending per student in the U.S. increased 140% from 1971 to 2019, while over the same period, test scores in math and reading for 17-year-olds barely moved.
A May 2026 study by the Network Contagion Research Institute and the Gevura Fund, which have a liations with Rutgers University and the University of Maryland, reports: “Combined NEA spending on political activities, lobbying, and
contributions to outside organizations totals approximately $175 million in FY2025, nearly 4 times the $45 million spent on direct member representation. PAC records show that 90% of NEA candidate-directed spending and nearly all of AFT’s, has gone to Democrats consistently across decades.”
A casual glance at the website of the NEA and the AFT barely turns up a hint about reading, math and science. Both are poster boards for the progressive political agenda.
It is no wonder that scholarships and vouchers, tickets for parents and children to education freedom, is a nightmare for the teachers unions who are about control, not freedom.
A recent study by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute ranks states by the strength and influence of their teachers unions. Among the top 25 states rated with the strongest teachers unions, only two — Ohio
KAREN SAMBOY El Dorado Hills
Guest Column
DAN WALTERS
STAR PARKER
un-harvested due to lack of market.
A recent Gallup poll showed that the percentage of Americans who say they consume alcohol has fallen to 54%, the lowest by one percentage point in Gallup’s nearly 90-year trend. Gallup has documented three consecutive years of decline in the U.S. drinking rate as research supporting the “no amount of alcohol is safe” message mounts. Wineries are stepping up to meet the challenges by offering more on-site entertainment and options, Fitzpatrick said.
Consumers crave connection
Lexi Boeger, director of Sales and Marketing for Boeger Winery in Placerville, said indications the market was changing popped up as far back as 2018. She referenced a Silicon Valley Bank 2018 winery market study that predicted: “Successful wineries 10 years from now will be those that adapted to a different consumer with different values.”
“Gen Z and younger Millennials are not really alcohol consumers,” Boeger said. “The number of people over 21 has flat-lined and the size of the market has changed.”
Consumers are trending toward other alcoholic beverages, spirits or canned products and fizzy drinks and a certain amount of people are choosing cannabis and CBD products.
Boeger and Lauren Hernandez are co-founders of the El Dorado Economic Generator and Germination Fund, a nonprofit with a mission to “strengthen economic development across El Dorado County through collaboration and community engagement.” The nonprofit received a grant from CA Jobs First to survey all commercial wine grape growers in the county in 2025 and their study showed 50% of El Dorado County’s wine grapes went un-harvested.
“People who grow grapes have lost their contracts because wineries that are sitting on a backlog (of wine) are not going to buy fruit to make new vintages,” Boeger explained. “We’re going to harvest our own grapes to fill in. We are definitely making less wine while we sell the vintages we already have. The great news for customers is that you can get fantastic deals because the market is flooded.”
In May of this year, Boeger Winery owner and farmer Greg Boeger removed a section of old growth vines in the vineyard planted in the 1970s. He used a tractor to till the area to prepare it for planting pumpkins in an effort to diversify the winery’s activities in response to the industry downturn. The winery team is also looking into providing other beverage options like coffee, locally grown tea, carbonated wine drinks and beer.
“Younger people want more diversification,” Lexi said. “They want beer when they come to the winery. Now we can get a beer license on the same premises. You never could do that before. Our county’s local rules and regulations are tough to
Walters Continued from A4
other participants has made it easy to pass the buck when academic test results and other measures expose academic shortcomings.
Suddenly undoing many decades of managerial status quo, as first proposed in Gov. Gavin Newsom’s state of the state address last January, is a remarkable feat unto itself. Doing so over the opposition of the California Teachers Association elevates it to a minor political miracle.
“The proposal would divert attention away from the real needs of students and schools by introducing a significant governance change that is both unnecessary and counterproductive,” the powerful union wrote in a statement before AB 181’s approval. “This proposal does nothing to improve student outcomes or strengthen public education.”
For decades, the teachers association and other education unions have easily gotten their favored candidates for state superintendent elected. And those chosen officials have faithfully echoed the unions’ position that the key to increasing outcomes is allocating more money.
School funding has increased sharply since the turn of the century, but test scores have not followed suit. Some categories, such as elementary school reading levels, remain embarrassingly low.
The first hint that change was on the table came late last year, when Policy Analysis for California Education, a consortium of education faculty at five
Letters Continued from A4
How far we have fallen
EDITOR
Ican’t believe how far the Democrats have fallen in their quest for power. Graham Platner is the best example of this. It’s not amazing that rape allegations have caused him to drop out of the race for Maine senator. The real shocker is what did not cause him a problem.
As long as he was just a Nazi-tattooed fascist the Democratic Party was enthusiastically behind him. It’s amazing that the party members who call everyone who opposes them a fascist support a real one when it suits their needs.
GEORGE ALGER Placerville
Parker Continued from A4
and West Virginia — have opted into the new taxfunded scholarship program.
Why are so many of our youth embracing socialism and turning away from the principles of our founding? Look no further than the vice grip unions have on our public schools.
Education freedom is vital to America’s future. The new tax-funded scholarship program is a major step in the right direction.
Star Parker is founder of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and an author.
navigate and far stricter than the state, which has a far more progressive approach to the wine industry collapse. El Dorado County needs to catch up.”
To sell beer for on-premises consumption in El Dorado County, a winery needs the appropriate ABC on-sale license that includes beer. Some wineries obtain additional ABC licenses or special event permits that may allow serving beer during special events, weddings or food service operations subject to ABC and local approval.
“The state will let me have beer but the county won’t. The state will allow me to have a Hipcamp and low-impact camping and the county needs to adopt it,” she continued. “They’re looking at it. They are in the process and I support them. They are open to hearing arguments for it but does the government move quick enough to save an industry that is one market cycle away from closing its doors?”
Hipcamp Inc. is an American company operating an online marketplace for booking campsites, RV parks, glamping stays and private land camping experiences via a mobile app and website.
Local wine industry leaders are pushing for more flexibility at the county level.
“I think the industry would really appreciate an emergency ordinance of some kind — to allow a pilot program to do some of these other things while they do the heavy lifting of changing policy, a stop-gap solution with a sunset on it,” Boeger maintained. “No harm no foul.
“It has to allow all these businesses that live in these working lands to be flexible to do some different things, to meet the customer where they are,” she continued. “The current environment has everyone treated as if they were in their own silo when really we’re just one cohesive industry, which includes outdoor recreation, farms, wineries, history. We’re in the same business really.”
County considers changes
Staff presented an item this spring at an El Dorado County Board of Supervisors meeting regarding agricultural lodging, including camping. The board reviewed and discussed the information provided and gave direction to staff to return with more details.
“To change current regulations, an amendment to county code(s) are needed,” Planning and Building Department Director, Karen Garner said. “Based on board direction, staff will be gathering additional industry and stakeholder input as well as data and begin crafting new regulations aimed at expanding opportunities not only on winery properties, but for other ag users as well.”
The county recently issued a six question survey asking residents whether “certain temporary supplemental income activities — like short-term lodging, low-impact camping or special events — should be allowed on agricultural land. Results
major universities, issued a lengthy critique of the current system. The report said California’s complicated mélange of state and local authority “often results in overlapping responsibilities, fragmented authority, and challenges in ensuring streamlined decision-making.”
By design, the consortium’s recommendations closely resembled Newsom’s proposal and the final legislation.
The obvious question is if streamlining education governance and making the governor accountable, at least on paper, for academic outcomes will merely rearrange chairs on a sinking ship, or actually generate more achievement for the $25,000-plus that the new state budget will be spending on each public school student.
California’s education establishment has been reluctant to change its mantra that more money is needed to boost results and equally reluctant to embrace improvements in instructional techniques, such as using phonics to upgrade elementary reading ability.
The onus will be on Newsom’s successor, most likely Xavier Becerra, to become the new schools sheriff in town.
Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
have not yet been published.
Regulatory relief
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 720 (Rogers) into law Oct. 10, 2025, which provides regulatory relief for CRV compliance and establishes a new Estate Event Permit that allows wineries to host tastings on their property apart from the bonded winery premises at non-adjacent vineyards they control. In January of this year, State Sen. John Laird introduced Senate Bill 917, which creates opportunities for small winemakers to sell wine and offer tastings at certified farmers markets. Under current law, winemakers may only sell wine at farmers markets if it is produced exclusively from “estate-grown” grapes, meaning all grapes must be grown on site. This requirement excludes many small and boutique wineries that responsibly source grapes from California growers. In addition, existing law limits instructional tastings to only one Type 79 permit holder per farmers market, regardless of market size or capacity.
Proposed California Assembly Bill 1585 requiring wines labeled “American” to be made from 100% U.S.-grown grapes passed the Assembly Standing Committee on Governmental organization on April 22 but was pulled by its supporters. Current law allows up to 25% of wine labeled “American” to be sourced from imported bulk wine produced outside the U.S. The USA is the only major wine-producing country that allows it.
According to the California Association of Winegrape Growers and Family Winemakers of California, “The decision to pull the bill was not a reflection of a lack of support. AB 1585 passed the Assembly without a single ‘no’ vote, earned the backing of wine grape, wine, agricultural and consumer organizations from across California and the nation and generated more than 10,000 letters from Californians urging senators to act. Those efforts ultimately did not move the Senate. AB 1585, co-sponsored by the CAWG and FWC,
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Mardy Fish wins American Century Championship
Laney Griffo Tahoe Daily Tribune
LAKE TAHOE — For the third time
in his golf history, tennis champion
Mardy Fish has been crowned the American Century Champion.
Fish scored 72 points overall, 20 of which he scored on Sunday.
Despite starting the day in the lead, it wasn’t clear Fish would win. He shot three bogeys in a row on holes 3-5, including a four-putt on hole 5, which he said he’d never done before.
“That was a little jarring,” said Fish. “It took me a couple holes to kind of get it back. I drew a line on the scorecard after No. 5 just to reset.”
He recovered well, shooting a birdie on hole 7.
Last year’s winner, Joe Pavelski, was on Fish’s heels for most of the day. Pavelski ended the day with 66 points.
When asked when he knew he was going to beat Pavelski, he said, “Joe hit it in the water on his second shot. (That) was kind of when I thought, OK, he can’t make six, and I started doing the math.”
In addition to Pavelski, Fish was chased by Stephen Curry, who ended the day in third with 59 points and Annika Sorenstam, who took fourth
with 58 points.
Fish first won in 2020, when there were no crowds allowed at the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He won again in 2024.
This years’ win came with big prizes, including the crystal trophy, a $150,000 check and, for the first time, a winners lab coat modeled after the PGA Masters jacket.
The lab coat is in recognition of American Century’s philanthropic corporate structure that allows the company to direct 40% of dividends to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research in Kansas City.
“Contextually, for everyone, it’s a million-square-foot facility based in Kansas City, Mo.,” said Michael Turner, head of Avantis Distribution for American Century Investments. “We have over 500 scientists who have come over the globe to KC. There’s 20 individual labs that have distinct initiatives. And all of these folks, day in and day out, they come to the institute and they research cures for all types of gene-based diseases. To name a couple: cancer, dementia, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and the like.”
As per tradition, Fish took a celebratory jump in Lake Tahoe, joined by his father, son and caddy.
the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9
Holiday
ARIES (March 21-April 19). Waking up to: an internal voice that now has new maturity. It feels like empowerment. You have options that are like hidden doors you just didn’t see before, and now you can’t unsee them. Your next move is one that didn’t occur to you before.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Waking up to: Your power in a relationship. It can come in odd forms, like knowing what someone likes, embodying an archetype they respond well to, needing them in a way that makes them feel purposeful or having talents they lack.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Waking up to: an invisible source of support. A friend, skill, resource, connection, or strength you’ve overlooked becomes useful now, and the beautiful thing is, all you have to do is ask. The right one says yes.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). Waking up to: the value of a trait you’ve spent years trying to minimize. Sensitivity, intensity, caution, enthusiasm, depth, humor ... What seemed inconvenient in one environment is a remarkable advantage in another.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Waking up to: how much energy is spent managing appearances. You’ll let go of trying to see yourself through their eyes, and the relief is immediate. You’re not rehearsing for every outcome, only the one you want.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Waking up to: how perfectly suited you are to the life you’re building, even in the early stages and the transitions. Because you’re arriving instead of striving. Sure, you’ll get “there,” but it’s fun right now
to puzzles in Classified section of newspaper.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Waking up to: a desire
beneath the desire. It turns out the thing you thought you wanted was standing in for something deeper. Once you identify the real hunger, the path toward satisfaction becomes direct.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Waking up to: your freedoms. Where you were once stuck, you now see the wiggle room, the lever to push, the escape route. You can soar with birds. Sometimes it starts in imagination, and other times it takes a physical move.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Waking up to: a talent you’ve treated as ordinary because it comes naturally. Others struggle where you thrive. What feels effortless to you is the very thing you’re meant to contribute, develop and share.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Waking up to: the difference between a real obstacle and a familiar fear. One requires action. The other dissolves when examined. What looked like a wall may turn out to be a shadow cast across your path.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Waking up to: the possibility that nobody is stopping you. Rules, expectations and habits can feel identical from the inside. A fresh perspective reveals which barriers are real and which ones you’ve been carrying yourself.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). Waking up to: the fact that you’ve outgrown a story about yourself. It may have protected you once. It may even contain some truth. But it no longer explains your full range of choices or possibilities.
Cole Croft surges to second Placerville Speedway win
Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway
The youth movement was out in full force once again at Placerville Speedway on Saturday, as 14-year-old Cole Croft withstood a late challenge from 16-year-old Austin Wood to score his second victory in the last three events at the track. Also claiming wins on Anrak Night at the Races were Nick Baldwin with the Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks, Tyler Goggin with the Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks and Dakota Albright with the BCRA Lightning Sprints.
The Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged Sprint Car feature took a few attempts to get going and when it did, pole sitter Croft moved out front. Action was intense throughout the field as several battles developed, with side-by-side racing prevalent.
Outside front row starter Shane Hopkins occupied the second spot over the initial 10 circuits, until Michael Sellers got by. Sellers, who earned his first Placerville podium on June 6, looked very impressive in the feature. He would run second for a handful of laps, before a fast-moving Wood took it over with 17 complete. Wood had made several beautiful moves and attempted to set his sights on the leader. Croft had run a perfect race up front but had a bobble in turn two with just a couple laps left, which gave Wood an opportunity to close. With the white flag in the air, it became a race for the top spot. Heading into the final set of corners Wood gave a hard run to the inside of Croft, but the Colfax driver hung tough and crossed under the Ed Entz checkered flag for victory.
After winning on 4th of July, Wood n See SPEEDWAY, page A7
Photo by Laney Griffo / Tahoe Daily Tribune
Mardy Fish holds the American Century Championship trophy for the third time.
Photo courtesy of Positive Times Photography
Cole Croft pumps his fist in victory after Saturday’s race in Placerville.
n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
n RUBES by Leigh Rubin
n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
Mathis
EID Continued from A3
on the division and residency, beginning July 13. Completed nomination papers must be filed no later than 5 p.m. on Aug. 7. If an incumbent does not file for re-election, the filing deadline for that seat is extended to 5 p.m. on Aug. 12, pursuant to California Elections Code §10225.
EID board members are elected by registered voters within the district’s boundaries. EID participates in California’s consolidated elections process, which places local special district races on the same ballot as statewide and countywide elections. This consolidation reduces costs for participating agencies and increases voter participation by combining elections on a single ballot.
Residents interested in running for office are encouraged to contact the appropriate county elections office for candidate filing requirements, key dates and campaign disclosure obligations. Visit eldoradocounty.ca.gov/Elections or elections. saccounty.gov.
Speedway
Continued from A6
had to settle for a still strong runner-up finish, earning his third consecutive podium effort at Placerville Speedway. Current point leader Justyn Cox battled hard for a third-place finish, while Andy Forsberg fought his way from the rear to a solid fourth place effort.
Sellers, Kenny Wanderstadt, Landon Henry, Carson Hammes, Hopkins and Dawson Hammes completed the top 10.
The Red Hawk Casino Pure Stocks didn’t have a lot of cars but put on a tremendous show during Anrak Night. Auburn’s Wayne Trimble led early but had pressure from Baldwin over the duration of the contest.
Baldwin stalked the leader for 24 laps and made his move on the final circuit. Coming to the checkered Baldwin blasted to the high side and made the pass coming to the line for his 45th career Pure Stock win.
Goggin had never won a race at Placerville Speedway prior to Saturday but took full advantage of every opportunity and scored his initial Mountain Democrat Mini Truck triumph. With the BCRA Lightning Sprints it was Jason Schostag who led the first 14 laps before encountering issues that put him out of the race. After that it was all Dakota Albright who crossed the line for another Placerville triumph.
Placerville Speedway returns to action with the Elk Grove Ford Sprint Car Challenge Tour and Dwarf Cars this coming Saturday, July 18. It marks Round two of SCCT Western Sprint Tour Speedweek.
AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 334-2970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com PLAY CRIBBAGE – Begins June 17, 2026 Join the Gold Country Cribbers, We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun, Wednesdays 11:30 AM –Summer Play, Steve’s Pizza – 3941 Park Dr #100, El Dorado Hills, CA, 916-212-2465 or 916-202-1762
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB: Come play tennis for fitness, fun & friendship. Meet at El Dorado HS tennis courts on Acacia St., Placerville, Wednesdays 9-11 except June -August, hours 9-11. Social activities & monthly tennis clinics. Some tennis ability required. Call Trisha 530-651-8121.
Grief support: Green Valley Community Church provides caring support through: • Grief share classes • Suicide loss support group • Memorials year round, Visit our website: www.greenvalley.church/outreach or call 530-622-3231.
Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA), for the CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on March 16, May 18, July 20, September 21, and November 16, 2026. The location is at the Denny’s Restaurant, 3446 Coach Lane in Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for information and programs.
DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530) 503-7400 or see edcdems.org for more information.
Do you have an announcement that you would like to include here?
Contact Elizabeth Hansen (530) 344-5028 or ehansen@mtdemocrat.net
Grants Continued from A3
requirements. Please check the Tribal Wildfire Resilience Grants webpage for details. Any questions can be directed to TribalWildfireResilienceGrants@fire.ca.gov.
Projects that receive funding from the Tribal Wildfire Resilience grant program are designed to complement California Natural Resources Agency’s Tribal Stewardship Policy, California Natural Resource Agency’s Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program as well as California’s Wildfire & Forest Resilience Action Plan and California’s Strategic Plan for Expanding the Use of Beneficial Fire.
Courtesy photo Traditional Ecological Knowledge is one area eligible for Cal Fire funds.
Farm families came to sell their goods and proudly display their best produce, stitchery, canned goods and animals.
Fairs were also a place to hear speakers and music and get up and dance. People took turns at the midway games to show off their strength.
Pictured above are items found at fairs over the years. In the circle on the left, write the names of items that could only be found at fairs 100 years ago. In the circle on the right, list things you could only find at a fair today.
Where the two ovals overlap, write the names of items you could find at fairs today AND in the past. Can you think of things to add to each group?
Link: History: Understand families and communities now and in the past.
Katie and Nathan played the Balloon Pop game on the fair’s midway. Katie popped odd-numbered balloons and Nathan popped the ones with even numbers. Add up each. Who got the highest score?
Look
Members of 4-H clubs show the animals they have raised and compete for recognition. Popular animal competitions include sheep, pigs, calves and chickens as well as llamas. People play modern midway games and line up to go on roller coasters, Ferris wheels and other rides.
Ask 10 or more people to pick their favorite part of the fair from among the following choices. Color in a box on the graph to show each person’s preference.
Make up questions about your completed graph. Then show the graph to a family member and ask your questions.
data.
Use this graph to gather data about what’s in your newspaper. Comb the newspaper for pictures of or references to the items on the list. Color in a box for every picture or reference you find.
With a parent or other adult at home, look through the newspaper for the following:
Five things you think will look different or function differently in 20 years •
Five things that have been invented since your adult partner turned 20
Five things that are part of both your life today and your partner’s childhood life
With your partner, complete the VENN diagram below to compare your childhoods.
The noun midway means a part of a fair filled with game booths.
Billy won a lot of prizes playing games on the midway at the fair.
Try to use the word midway in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members.
revisions and conducting a systematic examination of current review standards.
Council identified the fourth recommendation — reviewing the standards used to evaluate discretionary permits affecting historical resources — as the highest priority. Recommendations involving updates to the Historic Resources Inventory and possible ordinance revisions were deferred until that work was complete.
“The Planning Commission has focused their efforts accordingly,” Kendrick said.
The commission has reviewed the city’s historic preservation webpages, begun development of an interactive GIS map showing parcels within the city’s three historic districts and reviewed preservation standards used by other jurisdictions. The commission is also developing a decision-making framework based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards, city policies and local practices.
Kendrick said next steps include improving website navigation, creating frequently asked questions for property owners, developing informational flyers and exploring signage at historic district entrances.
“The commission strongly encourages that the council prioritize signage installation as an effective direct outreach tool,” Kendrick said.
Current process
Councilmembers expressed support for preserving Placerville’s historical character but questioned whether the current system applies the same level of review to properties with significantly different historic value.
Councilmember John Clerici said the city should distinguish between properties that are truly historic resources and older homes that happen to be located within a historic district.
“One of the things that I came out of that workshop with was to really go into the historic zones and say, ‘Yeah, that is obviously a historic asset that the city has an interest in preserving; that one over there maybe not so much,’” Clerici said.
Clerici said some homeowners find themselves subject to the same requirements as owners of recognized historical structures even when their homes do not contribute to the district’s historic character.
“There are homes in our historic district with wooden windows and metal windows and vinyl siding that have been altered so much from their
original form that they’re no longer contributing,” Councilmember Ryan Carter said.
Carter said identifying contributing and non-contributing properties would be an important step toward creating a more effective system.
“The challenge has always been staff,” Carter said. “It’s really tough to add this burden to our staff. But improvements we could make to our ordinance would alleviate work long term.”
Carter pointed to Grass Valley’s historic preservation ordinance as an example of a system that clearly identifies which properties require protection.
“I think that is really an important first step for us to alleviate staff time long term and to protect the structures in our historic districts that need protection,” he said.
Fire safety
Councilmembers also raised concerns about balancing historic preservation requirements with modern safety needs, particularly in a high fire severity area.
Councilmember David Yarbrough said homeowners increasingly face insurance challenges based on building materials, including siding, windows and defensible space requirements.
“We need to start actually giving those lists and taking a look at that stuff with the Planning Commission in the areas that we’re talking about with historic districts and allowing homeowners to make these changes,” Yarbrough said.
Carter said updated federal preservation guidance recognizes the use of compatible replacement materials, including fire-resistant options, when they maintain a structure’s historic appearance.
“For example, a concrete siding that looks identical to the original siding,” Carter said. “Some of these conversations have been had and it’s actually been issued by the government saying that these are allowed substitute materials in historic districts.”
Staff-level approvals
Mayor Nicole Gotberg said her primary goal is reducing the amount of time city staff spends processing routine historic district applications.
“We have limited staff resources and time,” Gotberg said. “We’re in a structural deficit budget, and I would like to see less applications that have to go through discretionary review to the Planning Commission.”
Gotberg said routine improvements such as siding, windows, doors and paint colors should not require extensive review when the changes maintain the existing appearance of a home.
Vice Mayor Jackie Neau proposed staff be allowed to approve projects involving common upgrades when they maintain the same look and feel from the street.
“If staff deems that it’s a substantive change, then take it to the Planning Commission,” Neau said.
Councilmembers supported directing the Planning Commission to develop a framework allowing staff approval for projects that do not significantly alter a property’s appearance while reserving Planning Commission review for larger changes.
The council also directed that a baseline inventory of properties be created, including photographs documenting current conditions.
Clerici volunteered to assist with an initial review of properties within the historic districts to help identify potential contributing and noncontributing structures.
“I think you can have the historic districts,” Clerici said. “I just think that we need to be a little bit more focused on how we apply the standards within those districts and what houses matter.”
Call for preservation
Several residents urged the council to maintain a strong commitment to historical preservation.
Resident Ruth Michelson expressed concern that changes to the review process could weaken protections for Placerville’s historic districts.
“I think a fundamental decision has to be made by City Council,” Michelson said. “Are our historic districts
something important? Is this central to the character of Placerville that we maintain those historic districts?”
Michelson also encouraged the city to consider reestablishing the Historical Advisory Committee, which was previously created to provide continuity and expertise on preservation matters.
Resident Kathi Lishman suggested holding a public forum focused specifically on historic preservation to allow broader community participation.
“I just think inviting the public to come for a special meeting, not just a Planning Commission meeting or a City Council meeting, would be in the best interest of our community,” Lishman said.
Work ahead
The Planning Commission’s draft decision-making framework is expected to return for further discussion and public comment, with a target completion date of October.
Councilmembers acknowledged the need to update the city’s historic preservation ordinance before implementing many of the proposed changes.
“These changes that are being recommended are going to require a change to our ordinance,” Carter said. “Our ordinance now does not allow staff to do what we’re recommending.”
Kendrick said she would summarize the council’s direction for the Planning Commission and encourage commissioners to review the council discussion as they continue their work.
The council ultimately received and filed the Planning Commission update while providing direction intended to create a clearer, more efficient historic preservation process that protects significant resources while reducing unnecessary administrative review.
NEWS, IN THE KNOW
July 15
Join American River Conservancy for Wednesday Workdays at Wakamatsu at 8 a.m. For more information visit arconservancy.org.
El Dorado Hills Town Center
will host Town Center Connect, a free mixer designed to bring together Town Center Association members and the greater El Dorado Hills business community for an evening of networking, collaboration and connection, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
All Ages Rockstar Karaoke hosted by KJ Sage will take place, 7-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.
Valhalla Tahoe presents Magic Work: Songwriters in the Round with Yose Tucker, Kathy Kallick and Laurie Lewis at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents ‘80s Throwback Summer Movie Series with “Field of Dreams” at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.
July 16
El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Live on the Boulevard with Top Shelf Classics at 7 p.m. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. at the amphitheater. For more information or to register on the online waitlist visit edhtowncenter.com.
July 17
Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville, is open 9 a.m. to noon, for Open Garden Day, Friday and Saturday. Take a leisurely stroll through all 16 themed gardens. Docents are on-site to assist you with any questions regarding the Sherwood Demonstration Garden or your personal gardens. May be closed for inclement weather or poor air quality, check before visiting at tinyurl.com/pszsfdhf.
Sierra Renaissance Society will host its annual Ice Cream Social with music provided by Duane “D.P.” Maracin at the Mother Lode Lion’s Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road in Placerville from 1-2:30 p.m. Admission is free to members; the public is invited to attend 2 meetings free. For more information visit srsedc.org.
The El Dorado Hills Arts Association will host an Artist’s Reception for the Membership Show, 6-8 p.m. at Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom. For more information visit eldoradohillsarts.com.
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host its Summer Concert Series at Community Park, 1021 Harvard Way from 7-9:30 p.m. with Guilty as Charged. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
Bumgarner Winery’s tasting room in Camino will host Live Music & Pizza with Tepid Club of Cool at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit bumgarnerwinery.com.
Sutter Street Theatre presents “Newsies,” through Aug. 7. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
Observing a vicennial
Shelly Thorene Sta writer
Members of the Rotary Club of Cameron Park celebrated the 20th anniversary of The Community Observatory, the club’s Centennial Project, recognizing two decades of inspiring astronomy education and community engagement with a party at the Observatory on Campus Drive in Placerville June 4. Around 70 people attended the event, including many founding members who shared stories and experiences from its inception, construction and opening in 2006.
Event emcee and Chief Docent Chris McCown welcomed the group and highlighted the shared vision that brought the facility to life, saying it was “a vision to provide a window to the cosmos for students, families and stargazers across our region.” The observatory is free to the public and is operated by a team of volunteers including the Rotarians of Cameron Park, Folsom Lake College and the El Dorado County O ce of Education.
McCown thanked the El Dorado County O ce of Education for consistently providing “the facility’s management and operational resources for the observatory while championing STEM learning for our youth.” He acknowledged partners at Folsom Lake College extension who “collaborated with us to turn the lights o in the parking lot at night and on the weekends and who encouraged our e orts to augment academic excellence with community outreach.”
He added that “multiple generations of volunteers and these organizations have kept the observatory’s doors open, the telescopes aligned and focused and its admission free to the public.”
Humble beginnings
Cameron Park Rotarian Bob Blum and his wife, Cathy, were the club’s guiding force for creating The Community Observatory and Rotarian Bob Edwards, a retired educator and real estate broker found the perfect site for the observatory adjacent to the El Dorado County O ce of Education campus and Folsom Lake College El Dorado Center.
Cameron Park Observatory board member and Cameron Park Rotarian Laurie Edwards, who attended the event, said her father sought and negotiated a deal with several landowners of a parcel known at the time as Veerkamp Park, donating it to EDCOE for the express purpose of building a park or or a similar-type venue benefitting the community. Edwards said, “My father negotiated a memorandum of understanding for EDCOE that the Rotary Club of Cameron Park Community Observatory and the Sherwood Demonstration Garden could be constructed on the site.
He also brokered a deal for EDCOE to purchase another
parcel that became the site for the transportation facility as well as a parking area for the observatory.”
According to Edwards, Rotarians raised approximately $88,000 and secured additional grants, cash donations, donated materials, and in-kind services to help meet the approximately $155,000 required to complete this ambitious community project. Rotarian Doug Bisbee served as project manager, while Past District Governor Bob Dorr, who also served on the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors, acted as the club’s liaison with the county to obtain the necessary permits.
Keynote speaker, first chief docent in 2005, ‘06, and a former author of an astronomy column in the Mountain Democrat, Forrest Lockhart recalled the very memorable night the observatory received its first visitors. It was in December, 2005 when Lockhart said he was given a one-day notice that some lucky Rotarians had won a dinner and a visit to the observatory in a silent auction. Lockhart said they rolled up in a limousine after dark and when they opened the door, a wine bottle fell out and rolled across the parking lot with some Rotarians chasing it. Lockhart and his assistant Nicole Gauthier had only seen the scopes twice when they got a call from Rotary saying there would be visitors and the duo had only three hours experience. Lockhart said, “I think we looked at Jupiter and M42 [The Orion Nebula]. The group thanked and praised us saying we were great astronomers and left.” Lockhart said his assistant Gauthier looked at him and said, “My God, what have we done?” Lockhart went on to say, “In the beginning we were putting in 40, 50, 60 hour weeks. When we were deciding how many docents we needed, we had a meeting and thought we would get 500-600 (visitors) per year. We thought we only needed two docents for that and we got blown out of the
water right away. There was no idea in our minds how this would catch on and when it did we were constantly trying to stay in front of it.” Lockhart stated that the Sept. 7, 2025 Lunar eclipse brought 1,400 people to the observatory that evening even though it was partly cloudy. The evening’s second speaker was Bill Ettlich who, along with Doug Bisbee, designed and implemented the electrical lighting designs and the entire electrical system including the underground main electrical feeder from the college campus to the building. Ettlich said “The Rotary got wind of an observatory in Yuba City that was done by the Kiwanis Club. We went up and looked at that and decided we could do that here. Plans were developed for financing, design, construction, ownership and operation, maintenance and oversight. All of these were important because Rotary only builds projects. It doesn’t maintain them.”
Ettlich said, “We got it all together, finally, and construction started with an awful lot of help from the community including architects, engineers, contractors, material suppliers,
individuals, people . . . people really stepped up for the project and we were able to get everything we needed here locally to get the facility into operation.”
Community pitches in Murray and Downs Architects designed the observatory, which was patterned after the Kiwanis Chico Community Observatory in Bidwell Park while incorporating several enhancements. Doug Veerkamp Engineering graded the site and constructed the asphalt driveway from the parking area to the observatory. Stigall Homes built the observatory, and Rotary volunteers painted the building. Bailey and Associates Structural Engineers designed and installed the retractable metal roof. Rotarian Gary Reynolds used his backhoe to excavate the trench for the underground main electrical feeder. Completed in 2006, the original observatory consisted of a 900-square-foot domed building with a retractable roof- housing two powerful
Mountain Democrat photo by Shelly Thorene
Above, Community Observatory Chief Docent Chris McCown welcomes guests to the 20th anniversary celebration of the observatory stating that the facility has had over 153,000 visitors since it opened in 2006. Below, Community Observatory original docent LuAnn LaPere of Cameron Park slices an astronomy-themed cake for guests.
Hands4Hope Youth volunteers prep
Hands4Hope – Youth Making a Difference
News release
For the 13th year in a row, middle and high school-age youth from Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference are leading a school supply drive to collect essential school supplies for local students in need. Donations will be accepted during July at locations from Folsom to Placerville, with the annual Stuff the Bus event taking place July 17 at El Dorado Hills Town Center. The goal is to help students start the school year with the supplies they need to succeed.
The school supplies collected during this drive are essential in helping offset back to school costs for local families experiencing financial struggles.
More than 700 students in need from grades TK through 12th are expected to “shop” for free during the distribution event in early August.
Donations needed include calculators, dry erase markers, erasers, glue bottles, graph paper, headphones, highlighters, index cards and lunchboxes.
“Last school year, at least 792 children in kindergarten through 12th grade identified as being in housing transition while attending El Dorado County schools,” explained Margaret Lewis, the McKinney-Vento services coordinator for El Dorado County Office of Education.
“These children, and many others who are in families living too close to the federal poverty
line, may go without items they need at the start of school.
“By providing access to these supplies for free through the Hands4Hope distribution event, their families can then redirect their resources toward other opportunities or needs,” she continued.
“The ability for students to choose their own supplies in colors, shapes, and characters that are fun and interesting to them provides a level of excitement and opportunity that sets them up to view the beginning of the school year with confidence and readiness, which we hope will carry them through a positive year ahead.”
Ashna Vaikunthan, a junior at Vista del Lago High School and School Supply Drive project manager, shared, “I returned my second year to the School Supply Drive Committee because I’ve grown my passion for helping others so much through this opportunity. I love seeing people smile and bring other people the ability to have all the school supplies to be successful in school.”
First-time committee participants, Caitlyn Pham and Natalie Woodcock, both sophomores at Oak Ridge High School, said they feel grateful to be part of an effort that directly supports local students and families and that, through their involvement, they have truly found purpose in
serving others.
School supply donations are being collected through Friday, July 17, and may be dropped in the blue Hands4Hope collection barrels located at locations in Folsom (Horn Fulton Inc. CPAs, Prime Real Estate, Regency at Folsom Ranch), El Dorado Hills (Lyons Orthodontics, El Dorado Hills Library), Cameron Park (Faith Episcopal Church), Shingle Springs (Snap Fitness) and Placerville (Robinsons Pharmacy, Cold Springs Church, Placerville Library and Thompsons Toyota). Additional partners have already completed drives or are hosting in-house drives.
Donations can also be brought to the exciting Stuff the Bus event on Friday, July 17, at El Dorado Hills Town Center, near Target, where a big yellow school bus from El Dorado County Office of Education will stand
at the ready to receive and transport supply donations.
Hands4Hope also offers supporters the options of sponsoring a student though a direct financial gift or shopping an Amazon wish list that will deliver directly to Hands4Hope. Details about donation drop-off locations, a list of items needed and an Amazon wish list can all be found on the Hands4Hope website at Hands4HopeYouth.org/ schoolsupplydrive.
The Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference School Supply Drive Committee is youth-led with the help of adult mentors. The committee’s goal is to ensure that all students have what they need to be successful in the 2026-27 school year. The committee develops advertising, markets for and hosts the School Supply Drive, and oversees the School Supply Distribution event as
well as distribution of remaining items. Committee participants collect and distribute all donated supplies in partnership with Placerville Union School District and El Dorado County Office of Education. Additional youth and adult volunteers are invited to join this effort by participating in the Stuff the Bus event on July 17, in various donation sorting and preparation events, and in the distribution event on Aug. 4. Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference is a youth-driven El Dorado County nonprofit that empowers young people through servicelearning to become compassionate, civicminded leaders. By creating and leading their own projects, Hands4Hope youth gain real-world skills while making a lasting impact in their communities.
Courtesy photos
Help Stuff the Bus with school supplies during the July 17 event in the Target parking lot at El Dorado Hills Town Center.
Expo to connect teens with resources and opportunities
El Dorado County high school students will have the opportunity to explore educational, career and wellness resources during the free Driven to Thrive Youth Expo on Monday, July 27. Hosted by the Youth Action Council, the event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the El Dorado County Office of Education's Building L, 6767 Green Valley Road. Parking will be available at Folsom Lake College.
Designed to help teens prepare for the future, the expo will connect students with local organizations, professionals and programs that promote mental
News release
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra invites community members and businesses to be part of an unforgettable evening at the inaugural BIG Gala, "Invest in Potential. Fuel the Future," on Saturday, August 8, at the beautiful Saureel Vineyards in Placerville.
This limited-ticket, breezy cocktail attire, fundraising event will feature an elegant plated dinner prepared by renowned local chef Diane Wilkinson, live music by a string quartet from
California State Parks Foundation News release
SACRAMENTO — California State Parks Foundation recently celebrated the inclusion of ongoing funding for the California State Library Parks Pass program in California’s 2026-27 state budget, marking a major victory for equitable access to California’s state parks.
The approved budget establishes an ongoing appropriation for the program. Previously, lawmakers had to approve funding for the program to be added to the state budget each year. Going forward, funding will continue automatically unless a future governor or the Legislature takes action to change it.
“This is a landmark moment for expanding access to California’s state parks,” said Rachel Norton, executive director of California State Parks Foundation.
“By establishing ongoing funding, California is making a lasting commitment to ensuring that cost is not a barrier to experiencing our state parks. This investment will help connect generations ... with the outdoors.”
“The stories found in libraries represent
Tahoe Daily Tribune News release
Salmost infinite adventures, wonder and possibilities, and the same is true for California’s state parks,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “Thanks to Gov. Gavin Newsom, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, our legislative leaders and tireless advocates like California State Parks Foundation, we are forever joining those stories through the California State Library Park Pass and unlocking countless adventures, wonder and possibilities still to come. These experiences reveal the mental and physical health benefits of being outdoors and remind all of us that these extraordinary places belong to every Californian.”
The California State Library Parks Pass gives library card holders free vehicle day-use entry to more than 200 participating state parks, available through more than 1,100 public libraries across California. Since the program launched in 2021, 33,000 passes have been distributed to branch libraries statewide. Library card holders can check out a pass, visit a participating state park, and return it to their library so others can enjoy it. Libraries
OUTH LAKE TAHOE — Lake Tahoe Unified School District honored its 2026 retirees during a celebration June 5 at Elements Eatery & Bar. Surrounded by colleagues, friends and family, retirees were recognized for their dedication to the students, families and community they have served throughout their careers.
Superintendent Todd Cutler opened the event by expressing gratitude to the retirees for their years of service and thanking the LTUSD Human Resources team of Vanessa Orozco, Edith Albiter-Martinez and Danielle Cvitanich for organizing the celebration. Representatives from the Lake Tahoe Educational Foundation, Michelle Reilly and Michelle Feeney, thanked the retirees for their commitment to education and noted that LTEF has proudly supported LTUSD retirees since the foundation's establishment in 1989. Classified School Employees Association President Bernadette Santana and South Tahoe Educators' Association President Nicole Mora also offered words of appreciation and congratulations. The celebration was hosted by Lake Tahoe Unified School District and the Lake Tahoe Educational Foundation.
health, leadership, education, career exploration and community involvement. Organizers say the event is intended to create a welcoming space where young people can learn about resources available throughout El Dorado County while building confidence and strengthening community connections.
"What makes me excited for the Driven to Thrive Expo is that I am able to connect with new people and get to be a part of something that represents a large part of our youth community," said Youth Action Council member Miles L.
The expo will feature a classic car display, a wellness fair, information on post-high school
the Folsom Lake Symphony during cocktail hour and dinner, exciting live and silent auctions and inspiring stories showcasing the transformative impact of mentorship.
Those interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to directly contact BBBSNS Director of Development Dina Gentry before the July 17 deadline at (530) 626-1222 x108 or dina@bbbsns. org.
Fundraising events such as this make BBBSNS’ one-on-one mentoring programs possible. The mother of a recently Matched Little expressed,
consistently report that the passes are among their most popular items available for checkout, and select libraries also offer backpacks with outdoor exploration tools, including binoculars, compasses and wildlife guides.
In 2023, California State Parks Foundation released survey findings demonstrating the program’s impact:
• 63% of respondents cited cost as the primary barrier to visiting state parks.
• 90% said they now plan to visit state parks many more times each year.
• More than 63% identified as Black, Indigenous or people of color.
The California State Library Parks Pass program is one of three equity-focused pilot programs championed by Newsom and Siebel Newsom in 2021 to support the state’s California for All vision. The initiative is part of the California Natural Resources Agency’s Outdoors for All framework, which aims to expand parks in underserved communities, support access programs and foster a sense of belonging for all Californians in the
In addition to the district-wide event, retirees will be recognized by colleagues at their respective school sites and departments.
2025-26 Certificated Retirees
• Alison Riegel — 21 years of service in education
• Eric Beavers — 30 years of service in education
• Gail Harnett — 35 years of service in education
• Jodi-Marie Dayberry — 31 years of service in education
• Joseph Pfeil — 34 years of service in education
• Karin Holmes — 37 years of service in education
• Patrick Harnett — 39 years of service in education
2025-26 Classified Retirees
• Edna Swartz — 30 years of service in education
• Tamara Miller — 18 years of service in education
LTUSD extended its sincere
opportunities, teen programs and interactive booths with hands-on activities. Lunch will be provided, and students will have opportunities to win raffle prizes at every booth as well as grand prize drawings.
Among the grand prizes are a whitewater rafting adventure donated by Stephen Rueck of Clean and Sober Nor-Cal Whitewater and a Nintendo Switch 2 donated by Sierra Child & Family Services.
The event is free and open to all El Dorado County high school students. Registration and additional information can be found at eldoradoyac. com.
"Hello! I just wanted to express my deepest gratitude! Kate has loved more than anything having a Big Sister! This has truly made her weeks beyond amazing knowing she will get to have time with someone who truly cares about her and lets her be her! This is such a wonderful thing, and I'm beyond grateful that Kate is getting to experience it! Thank you again for everything! Lori."
For tickets and sponsorship information visit bbsns.org.
outdoors.
California State Parks Foundation has advocated for long-term funding of the program since its launch, working alongside libraries, community organizations, outdoor advocates and state leaders to demonstrate its value and ensure more Californians can experience the benefits of state parks.
“We’re grateful to Gov. Newsom, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and the Legislature for recognizing the importance of ensuring everyone has the opportunity to experience California’s state parks,” Norton said.
DAY HIKER
Sagehen Trail
The open meadow of the Sagehen Trail is just one reason to make the drive east on Interstate 80 to Truckee. Wildflowers in season are another. And the view of Stampede Reservoir spread out at your feet is yet another. This easy 2.5-mile oneway stroll makes the trail accessible to many hikers. Located on the east side of the reservoir and home to numerous poplar trees, it’s also a beautiful autumn hiking destination.
Signage is nonexistent, so let me help narrow it down. Take the Sierraville exit north to Highway 89. Continue straight through both roundabouts toward Sierraville. Look for a concrete bridge 7 to 8 miles up the road marked “Sagehen Creek.” You’ll likely see cars parked off the road near the bridge on both sides. If you reach the Little Truckee River crossing, you’ve gone too far.
The trail follows the creek and leads to Stampede Reservoir, meandering along its
length. In mid-June, bright yellow mountain mule’s ear lined the trail, with large swaths of blooms covering parts of the meadow.
Butterflies and lizards joined us along the way, accompanied by a constant chorus of birdsong.
We found a beaver pond — no beavers swimming that day, but keep an eye out. Once you reach the reservoir and take in the view, step back and look south for a trail through a group of trees just short of the reservoir.
A makeshift creek crossing leads alongside the reservoir to an even more expansive meadow. Sierra shooting stars and creamy white
GROW FOR IT!
Enjoy succulents
Succulents are plants with thick, fleshy leaves and stems that thicken and engorge to retain water. There are about 10,000 types of succulents. A quick search for succulents on Calscape, the California Native Plant Society website, yields 196 results.
The advantages of growing succulents in your house or yard include their attractive and versatile colors, textures, shapes and forms, along with their ability to thrive in hot weather with limited water and little care. They are also longlived. In addition, their tough, prickly and fuzzy leaves are generally unappealing to deer and other garden pests.
Popular spring and summer succulents include Echeveria, Sempervivum, Agave and Sedum. In winter, Cotyledon, Kalanchoe and Aloe make lovely houseplants. My Sedum stonecrop blooms light pink, and my Sedum neon sends up a stalk of showy pink flowers. Ice plant blooms in brilliant shades of purple, yellow and magenta.
All succulents go dormant, and you can see new growth when they break dormancy. During dormancy, I either prune only the leaves that have shriveled and died back or cut the plants all the way down to the soil.
Succulents flourish in temperatures between 50 and 85 degrees
Kit Smith
UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County
Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees, but they should be protected from frost by covering them with frost cloth or bringing them indoors. Succulents can withstand temperatures up to 100 degrees and tolerate full sun. They are, however, happier when planted on the east side of the house or beneath a tree or shrub where they receive partial shade.
In the lower foothills, I grow Sedum adolphii and stonecrop in pots on the ground where they receive afternoon shade. Succulent leaves store water, so if the leaves or stems begin to shrivel, it is time to water them. Water them as well if you notice white, beige or black spots on the leaves, which indicate sunburn. During periods of extreme heat, move your succulents into more shade or cover them with shade cloth. Allow succulents to dry out between waterings to help prevent root rot.
Succulents can grow in almost any type of soil that is not overly rich. Although their
bistort grow along the narrow streams that feed into the reservoir.
The highlight of this trail, if you catch it at the right time in spring, is the meadow filled with deep purple quamash camas lilies. This is also a great summer trail, sitting at 6,000 feet in elevation and offering a few degrees of relief from the oppressive valley heat.
Mary West is the author of the Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guidebook series, a curated collection of her popular newspaper columns. In each installment, West shares her enduring love for the outdoors and highlights favorite hikes throughout Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. Her work has earned recognition, including the 2025 Bear Yuba Land Trust John Skinner Sierra Outdoors Recreation Award and the CRAFT Awards for Best Outdoor Newspaper Column in 2017 and 2019 from the Outdoor Writers Association of California. Her books are available on Amazon, and you can follow her adventures on Facebook and Instagram.
roots are shallow, they still require sandy, welldraining, permeable soil. They prefer to be somewhat crowded, but their roots should be thinned periodically.
Succulents are easy to propagate. Separate the pups or offsets that grow at the base or along the stem, or remove the plantlets that grow on the leaves of Kalanchoe and gently press them into the soil. You can also propagate succulents from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to callous over for about a week before inserting them into the soil. They typically develop roots within about two weeks. Prune overgrown stems and leaves as needed.
Fertilize succulents once or twice during the growing season, or more often if needed. Too much nitrogen in the fertilizer can soften the plants’ tissues, making them more susceptible to rot. This warm summer in the foothills, enjoy lowmaintenance succulents that will make your garden both colorful and interesting. For more information about UC Master Gardener classes, events and resources visit mgeldorado.ucanr.edu. For the Sherwood Demonstration Garden visit ucanr. edu/sites/EDC_ Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden. Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website or leave a message at (530) 6215512.
Mary West Outdoor columnist
Photo by Mary West
The view of Stampede Reservoir spread out at your feet is one good reason to take the trip to Sagehen Trail.
reflecting telescopes. That same year, the Rotary Club of Cameron Park donated the observatory to EDCOE, which owns the property. In 2009, EDCOE added a restroom and storage room, and continues to maintain the grounds, while Folsom Lake College-El Dorado Center provides security, utilities and parking.
The project relied on broad community support. Rotary members contributed nearly 10,000 volunteer hours, Rotary District 5190 provided grants, and Boy Scouts completed Eagle Scout service projects that enhanced the observatory grounds. Former EDCOE Superintendent Dr. Vicki Barber and Folsom Lake College-El Dorado Center Dean Dale van Dam were key supporters. Together with countless volunteers, donors, businesses and partners, a centennial vision became one of El Dorado County’s most distinctive educational and community resources.
Expanding the observatory experience
Inside the observatory, visitors experience the wonders of the universe through two powerful reflecting telescopes. The 17-inch Planewave CDK telescope, donated by Aerojet Rocketdyne, provides stunning visual views of the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae and distant galaxies through the eyepiece. The 14-inch Celestron SCT telescope, equipped with an Atik Infinity camera, displays live color images of faint deep-sky objects on a monitor. Together, the telescopes allow guests of all ages to explore the night sky in remarkable detail while learning from knowledgeable volunteer docents. During the monthly solar viewing program, specially filtered telescopes allow visitors to safely observe sunspots and other fascinating features on the Sun’s surface.
In 2011, Rotarians and docents built the G. Arthur Cort Sky Theater with two tiers of slanted concrete benches for night viewing. It included a pit area in the center for a docent to use a laser pointer to identify stars for guests. Cort saved the Rotary Club thousands of dollars by designing the outdoor bowl-shaped amphitheater which was modeled after the Kiwanis Community Observatory in Bidwell Park, Chico. According to Laurie Edwards, Art Cort, Bill Gallant and Bob Edwards organized work parties for the project with Cort supervising the construction. Edwards said Cort a ectionately became known as “The Number 2 Shovel Man” which was the type of shovel used in the project. Edwards said he earned the nickname “due to his propensity for hard labor over mechanized work.” The amphitheater was named “The G. Arthur Cort Sky Theater” to recognize Cort’s vast contributions. Cort went on to plan the weather and solar stations and according to Edwards, Luke Miller, spouse of Cameron Park Rotarian Deb Miller, built the solar station.
Grahek-Lockhart Imaging Observatory
In 2017, Art Cort designed the foundation and wood-framed support walls for the 12-foot fiberglass dome that houses the Grahek-Lockhart Imaging Observatory. The Rotary construction crew, again led by Cort, completed the foundation and complex support walls with funding from the Rotary Club of Cameron Park and a grant from Rotary District 5190. Observatory docents assembled the dome and installed the telescope and imaging equipment. Named in honor of docents, Lockhart and Grahek, whose dedication and expertise were instrumental to its development, the Grahek-Lockhart Imaging Observatory is not open to the general public.
Instead, it provides high school and college students with opportunities to conduct astronomical imaging and scientific research. Since 2026, visitors have been able to observe the telescope in operation through a live webcam displayed in the observatory classroom.
Guest speaker El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manasala praised Rotary and the supporting community members’ e orts that brought the Community Observatory into existence.
“This project succeeded because people and institutions came together around a shared vision,” he said. “That foundation began with the generosity of Diane Murillo, Daryl and Janice McNeely and Nelson and Amy Dawson who donated the real property to EDCOE making everything that followed possible. He noted the founding members contributions and those of former Dean of El Dorado Center, Dale van Dam and former Superintendent Dr. Vicki Barber, “who brought all the pieces together and transformed a shared dream into a lasting community treasure.” Their e orts remind us that the most enduring accomplishments are the result of collaboration, trust and a commitment to serving future generations.”
At the end of the evening, an awards ceremony celebrated individuals who made significant contributions to the Community Observatory. Original docent LuAnn LaPere presented honors and awards to past and present chief docents and members of the Rotary Club. LaPere mentioned the Gabler family’s contributions. Jim Gabler was the observatory’s web “guru” and data analyst. His wife, Steph planned many events and their daughter was a teen docent who, she said, “actually took part in building part of the Artemis.” Elizabeth GablerMarquez went on to earn an advanced degree in astrophysics and is now a neutron radiographer at UC Davis McClellan Nuclear Research Center. In 2020, she was recognized as one of The Mars Generation’s “24 Under 24” leaders and innovators in STEAM and Space. She has since worked with organizations supporting NASA, SpaceX, and the U.S. Department of Defense, and most recently contributed to the Artemis II mission.
The observatory’s primary purpose is astronomical education. To support that mission, the facility is reserved for K-12 and college classes on Monday through Thursday evenings. The
Placerville named Toys for Tots national finalist
News release
As the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program prepares for another Christmas season, the organization is reflecting on the accomplishments of its 78th anniversary year and the impact made possible by coordinators, Marines, volunteers and community partners across the country.
Program leaders described 2025 as one of the most successful years in Toys for Tots history, crediting local coordinators, Marines, volunteers and community partners for their dedication, leadership and commitment.
Because of those e orts, nearly 11 million children in need received almost 24 million toys, books and games, along with a message of hope during the Christmas season. Program leaders thanked everyone involved for serving children and families in their communities and noted that the work continues to change lives.
The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation has completed its review of all local campaigns conducted during 2025. The evaluation included campaigns operating in 870 communities across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Following the review, the Foundation identified the campaigns and Coordinators whose performance was considered exceptional.
The Foundation has announced the National and Regional Campaigns and Coordinators of the Year. Finalists and award recipients will be recognized during the Annual Training Conference Sept. 10-13 in St. Louis.
Program leaders also congratulated this year’s finalists and award recipients and thanked them for their continued commitment to ensuring that “Every Child Deserves a Little Christmas!”
The 2025 Marine Forces Reserve finalists are Bessemer, Ala.; Huntsville, Ala.; Camp Pendleton, Calif.; Seal Beach, Calif.; Orlando, Fla.; Albany, Ga.; Boise, Idaho; Rock Island, Ill.; Peru, Ind.; Belle Chasse, La.; Devens, Mass.; Detroit, Mich.; Bridgeton, Mo.; Omaha, Neb.; Londonderry, N.H.; Brooklyn, N.Y.; Perrysburg, Ohio; Waco, Texas; Abilene, Texas; Roanoke, Va.; Quantico, Va.; and
Charleston, W.Va.
The 2025 Local Community Organization finalists are Tuscaloosa, Ala.; Kingman, Ariz.; Placerville, Calif.; Tallahassee, Fla.; St. Augustine, Fla.; Burlington, Iowa; Bloomington, Ill.; Marengo, Ill.; Fort Wayne, Ind.; St. Tammany, La.; Chesapeake Beach, Md.; Holland, Mich.; Badin, N.C.; Aberdeen, N.C.; Fallon, Nev.; Ogdensburg, N.Y.; Middletown, Ohio; Lewisburg, Pa.; Jackson, Tenn.; McKinney, Texas; Arlington, Texas; and Olympia, Wash.
The recognition represents one of the highest honors within the Toys for Tots Program. Each year, Coordinators demonstrate extraordinary dedication to the mission, making the selection process especially challenging. Only one Marine Forces Reserve Unit Coordinator and one Local Community Organization Volunteer Coordinator from each region are selected annually.
Program leaders also highlighted another milestone in 2025. For the first time in the history of the Marine Toys for Tots Program, every Coordinator submitted an After Action Report on time, an achievement they said reflects the professionalism, accountability and commitment to excellence demonstrated nationwide.
Campaigns are evaluated on several factors, including the scope of the campaign, adherence to administrative procedures, teamwork, attention to detail, planning, execution of the local campaign plan, responsiveness, timeliness, communication with local businesses, volunteers, recipients and the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, as well as the results of the internal audit.
Program leaders thanked all coordinators, whether recognized this year or not, for strengthening the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and reinforcing its reputation as the nation’s premier children’s Christmastime charity. They said the dedication of coordinators, Marines and volunteers ensures the mission continues year after year by delivering not only a new toy, book or game at Christmas, but also hope, joy and encouragement to children who need it most. Through their selfless service, they help inspire the next generation of responsible, productive and patriotic citizens.
observatory is also open to the public free of charge and without reservations on Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as the first Saturday morning of each month for safe solar viewing, weather permitting. The only cost to visitors is the $2 parking fee charged by Folsom Lake College. McCown said to date, the observatory has welcomed over 153,000 visitors. He told the crowd, “That number represents hundreds of thousands of moments where eyes have widened in wonder, where minds turned to curiosity, more and more questions were asked and the vast mysteries of space felt a little less mysterious and just a little closer to home.” McCown closed the evening by saying, “As we look back on two decades of incredible history, we also look forward. Because of your dedication, the future of this observatory is brighter than ever, ready to inspire the next generation of stargazers and dreamers.”
Courtesy photo
The Grahek-Lockhart Imaging Observatory was constructed in September 2017 and is used for taking incredible images of the night sky. It is located behind the main Observatory. Mountain Democrat photos by Shelly Thorene
Cameron Park Rotarian Bill Etlich talks about the many hands that contributed to the construction of The Community Observatory. Ettlich, along with Doug Bisbee, designed and implemented the electrical lighting designs for the observatory. Below, Forrest Lockhart recalls memorable moments about the construction and the opening of The Community Observatory at
Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents One Night of Queen in concert, a tribute at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.
July 18
Rock This Country – The Shania Twain Experience will perform at 8 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheater.com.
The Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center at 2675 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines will host Logging Days from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring
logging competitions, vendors, ra es and a barbecue meal for purchase. Sign up for competitions at 8 a.m. on the day of the event. For more information call (530) 647-8005 or visit pollockpinesca.org.
Save the Graves will host a Pilot Hill Cemetery Cleanup from 9:30 a.m. to noon at 4781 Pedro Hill Road, Pilot Hill. Preregistration required. For more information visit savethegraveseldorado.org.
Fork Dinner to take place July 25, 6 p.m. at Del no Farms in Camino. For tickets and more information visit applehill.com.
Tickets are now available for Images of Hope’s annual Picnic in the Orchard to take place on Aug. 15, 4-8 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards, 2569 Larsen Drive in Camino. For tickets and more information visit imagesofhopeeldorado.com.
Placerville. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.
The Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Botanical Brushstrokes through July 19. For more information visit edhtowncenter. com.
Sutter Street Theatre presents “Grease,” through July 26. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “The Two Kids That Blow Sh*t Up” through July 26. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.
Ed Wilson will perform at Placerville Speedway from 4-6 p.m.
Toogood Winery Tasting Room in Fairplay will host its Wine and Cheese Celebration with no reservations required on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information visit toogoodwinery.com.
Now Tickets are now available for Apple Hill Growers’ Farm to
Tickets are available for Ag in the Classroom’s 20 Mile Taste to take place Aug. 29 from 4-7 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards, 2569 Larsen Drive in Camino. For more information visit agintheclassedc.org.
Arts and Culture El Dorado is holding an Open Call to Artists for Working Landscape, Working People, exploring the intersections of land, labor and life in El Dorado County and the Sierra Nevada foothills to be displayed at the Switchboard Gallery, 525 Main St. in
The El Dorado Hills Arts Association will host its Membership Show, Perspectives, at The Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom through Aug. 20. For more information visit eldoradohillsarts.com.
Arts and Culture El Dorado will host Rubicon Rising through Aug. 16 at the Switchboard Gallery, 525 Main St. in Placerville. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.
Broadway at Music Circus presents “Young Frankenstein” through July 19 at the UC Davis Health pavilion in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.
Sacramento Shakespeare Festival presents “Twelfth Night” through July 26. Learn more at sacramentoshakespeare.net.
Folsom History Museum presents Ride ‘Em Cowboy – the Folsom Rodeo Exhibition
