Mountain Democrat: Wednesday, July 1, 2026

OPINION

California Matters

What the federal probe of Newsom and the first partner means for his presidential ambitions

Gov. Gavin Newsom recently revealed in a video and a social media post that the U.S. Department of Justice is investigating him and his wife, framing it as a political attack by President Donald Trump.

“Donald Trump isn’t just coming after me because of my mean tweets,” Newsom said. “He’s coming after me because I am considering running for president.

“To get me, he’s coming after my wife,” Newsom continued. His spouse, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, who adopted the title of “first partner” after Newsom became governor, issued her own retort, saying, “This is not presidential behavior, and the governor and I will continue to speak truth to power because the American people deserve so much more.”

Although there was no o cial a confirmation, numerous political media outlets verified from o -therecord sources that an inquiry about Siebel Newsom’s for- and nonprofit organizations is underway. Siebel Newsom is a documentary filmmaker whose work focuses on sexism. Her nonprofit organization called the Representation Project advocates for gender equity using her documentaries, and it pays Siebel Newsom’s forprofit company, Girls Club Entertainment, for the films.

In required disclosures, Newsom has acknowledged soliciting $4.3 million in donations to another Siebel Newsom organization, the California Partners Project, since 2020.

Right-wing media gleefully celebrated the disclosure as bolstering allegations that Siebel Newsom — and implicitly Newsom — had benefited financially from contributions that corporate interests had made to her activities, some of them so-called “behested” payments that Newsom had ■ See WALTERS, page A7

Trustees of the Social Security program just issued their annual report.

Each year, the picture of the program’s solvency is dismal. But this year it’s even worse.

Rather than falling short in 2033, as reported last year, this year the shortfall is projected to be in late 2032.

That’s six years from now.

Without action taken, benefits, per the report, will be cut 22% late in 2032.

That means that every young working person is now forced to pay, by law, 12.4% of their pay — half paid by them and half paid by their employer — into a bankrupt system.

As I recall, this is a free country. So, the fault is ours. We, the voters, sit by and allow this to be done to us.

Even if the system was not broken and could pay benefits as promised, it still is a horrible situation.

The Committee to Unleash Prosperity has calculated what the average worker would have accumulated, based on life expectancy, if instead of paying the payroll tax, they were allowed to invest the same

Letter to the Editor

Re ections on Normandy

EDITOR:

My husband, Ron, and I recently had the profound privilege of visiting Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery in Normandy. We visited on the 82nd anniversary of the D-Day invasion.

Like so many Americans, we grew up seeing historical photographs, watching documentary footage and reading textbook accounts of June 6, 1944. We thought we understood what happened there but quickly realized that no amount of preparation can prepare your heart for the wave of emotions that overtakes you when standing on the beaches and looking at the American cemetery.

We had the unexpected honor of meeting two veterans of the invasion. They are elderly and use

wheelchairs but have pride for the service they rendered to our country and to the world. At the time of the invasion, these men were just boys, yet they possessed clarity and understood what was at stake and they willingly stepped into battle. As I reflect on our journey, I am overwhelmed by the magnitude of what these soldiers gave up for us. It has made me realize that a casual “thank you for your service” is not enough. We owe them a debt that can never be fully repaid, but we can ensure that we never forget their sacrifices.

funds in their owner personal retirement account over their working life, divided 60% in stocks and 40% in bonds.

Using historical returns from 19862025, the average worker would have accumulated $1,453,726, compared to $458,532 they would have gotten under Social Security. For Black people it would $834,662 vs. $261,571 and for Hispanic people it would be $1,290,310 vs. $413,726.

Social Security is the oldest (signed into law in 1935) and largest (about 21% of the federal budget to the tune of about $1.5 trillion annually) federal program.

Enactment of Social Security was a game changer and opened the door to progressivism in the United States. Its constitutionality was challenged then, and the Supreme Court ruled in its favor, fundamentally changing the constitutional understanding of the government’s ability to tax and spend. That change in understanding, which opened the door to the modern welfare state, is really the background of the horrible spending and debt situation we’re in today.

The great gift that Americans can give ourselves to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday is to turn around this situation and restore the individual freedom that defines our nation and has been the basis of our formidable achievements.

What can define a free country more than every citizen having the right to say the government, “No, thank you, I prefer to take care of myself rather than the government taking care of me”?

I can argue, as others have done and are doing, about restoring the fiscal soundness of the Social Security system by taking a bad situation and making it worse. Politicians that don’t have the courage to “rock the boat” will go along with reforms to raise taxes or cut benefits, such as raising the retirement age.

I propose to at least give Americans a choice.

In other words, make this discussion not just about the finances and economics of the Social Security system. Make this a discussion about our nation and the individual freedom that supposedly defines it. If you want, stay in the existing

system. But give everyone the option to get out, as long as they agree to use same percentage of their income to fund their own personal retirement account.

The ethnic implications of this reform can be huge. Per the Federal Reserve Consumer Finance Survey, as of 2022, 61.8% of white households had a retirement account, 34.8% of Black households and 27.5% of Hispanic households.

Per the same survey, 65.6% of white households held stock, 39.2% of Black households, and 28.3% of Hispanic households.

Per the Census Bureau, as of 2021, 20.4 % of white households had net worth of $1 million compared to 5.3% of Black households.

Let’s build wealth in our country, where all Americans will participate. The answer in more freedom, less government. This is how to fix Social Security.

Star Parker is founder of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and author of “Necessary Noise, How Donald Trump Inflames the Culture War and Why this is Good News for America,” (Hachette 2019).

CELEBRATING AMERICA & COMMUNITY

Plan

Continued from A3

expanding flood forecasting and early warning systems and advancing regional projects that provide multiple water supply, ecosystem and community resilience benefits.

“For more than two decades, DWR has encouraged Californians to connect across watersheds,” said Karla Nemeth, director of the California Department of Water Resources. “A warmer climate stresses resources from forests to aquifers. That makes the hard work of collaboration more important than ever. DWR’s $2 million grant to the Regional Water

Walters

solicited.

Authority yielded a plan that tells a powerful story about future risks and marks a clear path to resilience. This plan positions the people of the American, Bear, and Cosumnes watersheds to cope with a changed climate. It is an early example of the kind of work needed across the state, and it helps build DWR’s momentum to update the California Water Plan to deliver more precise, localized, and action-oriented water supply strategies.”

The planning e ort was led by the Regional Water Authority with support from Jacobs, Valley Vision, Khadam Consulting, the

Continued from A6

The California Post, an offshoot of the right-leaning New York Post, ginned up a lengthy opinion article portraying Newsom as having “a long trail of corrupt connections” dating back to his days as mayor of San Francisco. Meanwhile, media figures who ordinarily would have been supportive of Newsom acknowledge that soliciting contributions to his wife’s activities opened the door. “Those donations, known as ‘behested payments,’ aren’t illegal in California, but, long before Newsom started asking for them, many have found them unsavory — with good cause,” Los Angeles Times columnist Anita Chabria wrote. “A behest, after all, is by definition a command or at least a strong suggestion.”

New York Magazine, in a lengthy piece by former prosecutor Elie Honig, cited a list of political enemies that President Trump has attempted to besmirch or prosecute and concluded that Siebel Newsom’s interconnected forand nonprofit organizations and Newsom’s behested contributions were legitimate fodder for official scrutiny.

“Justice Department leadership has fully disgraced itself, and Trump has earned his status as a permanent suspect in any case that might touch on a disfavored Democrat,” Honig wrote. “But he’s not always the culprit. And in this case, it appears that neither Governor Newsom nor Siebel Newsom are victims.”

So there it lies. Federal agents are sniffing around and Newsom decided to make a preemptive strike, framing it as an effort by Trump to damage the governor’s almost certain run for the White House in 2028. The situation begs for deconstruction.

The most obvious aspect is that if the investigation was ordered up by Trump, it is just about the greatest political favor he could have given Newsom.

The California governor has risen to the top of the shadow

Water Forum, regional water agencies, local governments, Tribal representatives, community organizations, and Watershed Network participants.

“The region already has many of the partnerships, technical tools, and local initiatives needed to strengthen resilience,” Peifer said. “This plan helps align those e orts and creates a clearer path forward for coordinated regional action.”

The full American, Bear, and Cosumnes Watersheds Resilience Plan is available at: rwawatershedsresilience.com/ plan/.

campaign for president on his self-appointed position as Trump’s harshest opponent. Thus, being the subject of an investigation makes him — he certainly must hope — a hero, even a martyr, within the Democratic Party.

Accordingly, Newsom’s political apparatus immediately sent out a plea for contributions to help him fight off the investigation.

Honig has it right in New York Magazine. The behested payments and Siebel Newsom’s tangled array of private organizations invite scrutiny. The outcome, if there ever is one, could either boost or torpedo Newsom’s presidential ambitions.

Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.

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

COMICS

Cole Croft nets first career sprint car win

Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

Fourteen-year-old Cole Croft gave his all on a restart with five laps remaining and went on to claim his first career sprint car triumph during Thompson’s Fan Appreciation Night at Placerville Speedway.

Sharing victory lane in front of a capacity crowd on Saturday night were Ray Trimble with the Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models, Nick Baldwin with the Red Hawk Casino Pure Stocks and Noah LaPoint with the Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks.

In the 30-lap Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged Sprint Car feature it was 10-time track champion Andy Forsberg who blasted into the lead. The Auburn veteran set a fast pace up front and hit virtually every restart to perfection.

Current Placerville Speedway point leader Justyn Cox kept the leader within sight though and looked to pounce as traffic came into play on multiple occasions, only to have caution flags give the front runners a clear track ahead.

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Resilience is one of your superpowers. You have learned how to adapt and bounce back. Every challenge has taught you something useful, and today you handle something so easily, not in spite of those challenges but because of them.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Nobody else can bring your exact combination of experiences, interests, obsessions, humor, grief, curiosity and insight to a project. Also, you don’t need everyone to agree with your choices. They don’t have to make sense to anyone but you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Anyone can be kind and competent on a normal Wednesday, but you welcome the heightened circumstances when they come, knowing that it’s grace under fire that forges the good stuff. Heightened circumstances are opportunities for true character to emerge. CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’re not just hoping things will work out, you make them work. It’s in the details now. Small adjustments create outsized results. The finishing touches are where the magic happens — the glossy varnish turns “good” into “exceptional.”

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You trust yourself more than you did, for the simple reason that you just keep delivering results you can stand by. You’re gaining experience you need to do quick, dependable work. You’ll make a decision that brings immediate reward.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). A gift doesn’t require repayment. If there are strings attached, it’s not a gift, it’s a negotiation. There may be expectations attached to today’s exchange of “generosity.” The real question is: Are those terms acceptable to you?

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Today, it’s not about being right. It’s about progress, which always involves the whole mechanism. If one gear fits, great. But what does that mean to the next gear and the next? Everything must turn together. Think in terms of systems.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Not every lesson can be taught in advance. Some people need firsthand experience. Caring about someone doesn’t give you the power to spare them every consequence. Though you feel responsible for people, you are not responsible for their choices.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You share your knowledge and lead others with certainty and care. As excellent as you are at educating others, experience remains the more powerful teacher. Consider whether your best move is to step back with love and let them discover for themselves.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Even though you’re extremely observant, don’t assume appearances tell the whole story, either about other people or about yourself. Today, it’s safe to assume there’s much more going on behind the scenes than meets the eye.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Restraint can be mistaken for passivity or

As the race ticked off it was Forsberg leading Cox and Croft with drivers exchanging positions on a regular basis. Things came to a halt with five laps remaining and it set up a final dash to the finish that changed the complexion of the contest.

When the green flag waved for the final time Croft charged to the outside of Cox for second and dove to the inside of Forsberg for the lead. Close quarter racing was seen off turn four and resulted in Forsberg over the edge turning a 360.

With Croft now up front, Cox gave it a bid the next lap slicing to his inside, but the youngster cut right back to the bottom and maintained the point.

Croft led the remaining couple circuits and crossed under the Ed Entz checkered flag for his initial Sprint Car victory. Cox extended his point lead by way of a runner up finish. Austin Wood, Nick Parker and Chance Grasty rounded out the top five.

Completing the top 10 were Shane Hopkins, Michael Sellers, Seth Standley, Dawson Hammes and Carson Hammes.

Auburn’s Ray Trimble led all 25 laps in the Kings Meats Ltd. Late

Model main event but had to deal with intense pressure at times from Anthony Slaney.

Trimble hit his marks each lap though on way to his 28th career late model win at Placerville Speedway. The veteran is now just six victories away from tying Ryan McDaniel for the most wins in the division.

Oakley’s Nick Baldwin raced to yet another Red Hawk Casino Pure Stock triumph but had to work for it as Kevin Jinkerson gave him everything he could handle.

The duo battled it out up front for several laps until Baldwin solidified the point and went on to grab his 44th career Placerville Speedway checkered flag. Baldwin continues to inch closer toward Donnie Tilford’s record of 71 wins in the division.

Jinkerson, Wayne Trimble, Tyler Lightfoot and Jason Poppert filled out the top five.

Mountain Democrat

Mini Truck point leader Noah LaPoint took the lead on lap 10 and went on to claim his win of the season on Saturday. He was followed across the line by Dan Jinkerson, Brian Tremblay, Luke Costa and Mike Miller.

Placerville Speedway returns to action with the Freedom Fireworks Spectacular this coming Saturday, July 4. Three divisions will take to the track, including the Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Cars, Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models and the Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks. Seating is reserved on Independence Day and can be purchased ahead of time via eventsprout. com/event/psr-070426.

Thompson’s Fan Appreciation Night Results

Thompson’s Dealerships Winged

360 Sprint Cars: 1. 29-Cole Croft[6]; 2. 42X-Justyn Cox[1]; 3. 2A-Austin Wood[7]; 4. 15AZ-Nick Parker[3]; 5. X1-Chance Grasty[4]; 6. 21-Shane Hopkins[5]; 7. 15-Michael Sellers[9]; 8. 7-Seth Standley[10]; 9. 55D-Dawson Hammes[13]; 10. 56C-Carson Hammes[12]; 11. 57-Bobby Butler[14]; 12. 5-Kenny Wanderstadt[15]; 13. 92-Andy Forsberg[2]; 14. 7W-Dennis Scherer[18]; 15. 45-Jake Morgan[8]; 16. 00-Steel Powell[11]; 17. 25X-Johnny Reeves[17]; 18. 28K-Kaden Ramos[20]; 19. 98-Chris Masters[19]; 20. 25-Cody Johnson[16]

Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models: 1. 37-Ray Trimble[4]; 2. 4X-Anthony Slaney[3]; 3. 57-Rod Oliver[6]; 4. 23J-Tyler Lightfoot[7]; 5. 54-Matt Davis[2]; 6. 17Y-Tim Yeager[5]; 7. 22-Chris Mcginnis[9]; 8. 22TL-Les Friend[10]; 9. 11-Adam Starkey[11]; 10. 72R-Ryan DeForest[12]; 11. 22G-Paul Gugliomoni[1]; 12. 57A-Andrew Odgers[8]; 13. 10A-Ted Ahart[13] Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks: 1. 17-Nick Baldwin[2]; 2. 30-Kevin Jinkerson[4]; 3. 86-Wayne Trimble[3]; 4. 23J-Tyler Lightfoot[1]; 5. 87-Jason Poppert[6]; 6. 12J-Jason Ramos[5]; 7. 48-Jeff Law[7]

Mountain Democrat Mini Trucks: 1. 92N-Noah LaPoint[4]; 2. 76CDan Jinkerson[5]; 3. 07-Brian Tremblay[2]; 4. 17-Luke Costa[6]; 5. 16-Mike Miller[3]; 6. 22-Nick Perkins[11]; 7. 26-Paizlee Miller[9]; 8. 21-Paige Miller[10]; 9. 70-Tyler Goggin[7]; 10. 369-Emmett Fanning[8]; 11. 03-Kevin Jinkerson[1]; 12. 28-Howard Miller[12]

the veterans and other attendees. They spent the night in a hotel in Arlington, Va., and the next morning their first stop with the group was at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Cahill said Wheeler was one of the four oldest men in attendance at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and he and three others were chosen to move the wreath forward. “It was amazing,” Cahill shared. Their next stop was the Vietnam Veterans Wall, a V-shaped black granite wall honoring 58,318 U.S. service members who died or went missing in the Vietnam War. The names are listed chronologically by their date of casualty. Cahill found the name of his friend and fellow soldier, Paul R. Brass. Using a pencil and piece of paper, Cahill made a rubbing of his friend’s name as a keepsake.

Afterward, vets made their way to the Korean War Veterans Memorial located on the National Mall, southeast of the Lincoln Memorial and south of the Reflecting Pool. It was dedicated in 1995 and honors the 5.8 million Americans who served during the Korean War. Wheeler said the Korean War Memorial was “really beautiful” and a “strange scene with combat veterans in the field. The statues were so lifelike with their rifles and their winter attire.”

reforestation efforts.

While a representative from the USFS was unable to attend the meeting, Deason told the board USFS officials have said the herbicide (brand name Round-Up), would not cause harm to the groundwater or wells in the areas where it’s used, which includes sections burned by the 2021 Caldor Fire, which destroyed more than 221,000 acres.

Deason assured the board he would continue looking into the matter and possibly get a USFS representative to attend a future board meeting.

In other business, the board held a public hearing to authorize the board president to execute an agreement regarding the sale and transfer of 5,000 acre-feet of water to the Westlands Water District. The water will be transferred from Weber, Caples and Silver reservoirs. The board voted 5-0 to approve the transfer.

Other information and update items included district Engineering Manager Liz Carrington giving an update on the district’s seven construction projects, totaling $73.3 million which are all on schedule.

District hydrologist Jordan Baxter gave an update on the water supply, telling the board that while all the Project 184 reservoirs are full, last winter’s storm season was very weak.

“We’re OK for the near future,” Baxter said. “A lot does depends on the coming El Niño.”

Upcoming items for the July 27 meeting include an assessment of the district’s electric vehicle fleet, a report on Reservoir 1 floating cover emergency replacement project and several human resources and finance items. The meeting will start at 9 a.m.

The veterans moved on to the World War II Memorial in the heart of the National Mall, adjacent to the Washington Monument. The granite and bronze structure was dedicated on May 29, 2004, to honor the 16 million who served in the armed forces of the U.S., the 400,000 who died and the millions who supported the war effort. The last monument they visited that day was the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, located in West Potomac Park, next to the National Mall. The 4-acre site, which opened Aug. 22, 2011, includes the Stone of Hope, a granite statue of civil rights movement leader Martin Luther King Jr. Cahill said at the end of the day the vets and their guardians got back on the bus to their hotel where dinner was waiting for them.

The following day, the veterans were bussed to the National Museum of the U.S. Army located in Belvoir, Va. The museum exhibits celebrate the nation’s 250 year years of Army history and honors the soldiers of the regular Army, the Army Reserve and the Army National Guard. The next stop on the tour was the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington Ridge Park within the George Washington Memorial Parkway. The Marine Corps War Memorial honors marines who gave their lives “in defense of the United States since November 10, 1775.”

The last stop on the itinerary was the Air Force Memorial located on the former grounds of the Navy Annex near the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery. The three stainless steel arcs represent contrails of Air Force Thunderbirds as they peel back in a precision bomb burst maneuver and the absent fourth suggests the missing man formation. The monument was dedicated on Oct. 14, 2006 and the

keynote address was delivered by President Bush, a former F-102 Delta Dagger Pilot with the Texas Air National Guard.

The weary team ended their day at 10:30 p.m. at the San Francisco International Airport where Cahill said about 400 police officers, firefighters, friends and family and a bagpiper and drummer welcomed them back home. Cahill said he was overcome with emotion and cried. He added. “Norm did excellent.”

They arrived in Cameron Park at 2:30 a.m. and Norm’s wife, Kasey, was awake and waiting for him.

“I was worried and surprised he looked so good,” Kasey said. “He had a great time.

“Norman never spoke about his service; he never felt he did enough because he wasn’t on the ground fighting,” she continued. “His job at the 38th parallel was to make sure the North Koreans didn’t violate the treaty.”

She said after the Honor Flight, he is now speaking about his service and appreciated all the people who thanked him for his service.

The Honor Flight Network that made the experience possible is a nonprofit organization with independent hubs around the country that work together to give veterans an opportunity to share their stories and remember the fallen by traveling together to Washington, D.C. The organization transports 22,500 veterans annually and has flown over 300,000 veterans since its inception.

Wheeler offered advice for a veteran who may be on the fence about attending the Honor Flight: “Don’t be scared to go. As we get older, we tend to forget things but this is a chance to make new memories.”

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She said city staff has scheduled its first strategic meeting Aug. 12 to identify additional cost-saving measures that will be presented to the City Council this fall.

Despite those long-term concerns, Tornincasa said every operating fund enters the new fiscal year balanced. The general fund shows a surplus of $156, while the water enterprise fund is projected to end with a $32,000 surplus after experiencing deficits during the previous two years. The sewer enterprise fund is expected to finish with a $67,000 surplus. Both water and sewer funds are restricted to

and

infrastructure.

for

The adopted general fund budget totals approximately $11.15 million in revenue. Public safety remains the city’s largest operating expense, with patrol services budgeted at more than $3.4 million.

During public comment, county resident Ruth Michelson asked about funding associated with the city’s planned purchase of the property at 681 Main St., including the use of reserve funds.

Tornincasa said the city’s fiscal

year 2024-25 financial statements, which are nearing completion, show a general fund reserve of approximately $4.2 million, with about $2 million considered unrestricted.

She said the city plans to temporarily borrow from its general fund balance to complete the purchase while using a $1 million grant that expires next year.

Vice Mayor Jackie Neau compared the reserve to a household emergency fund.

“It’s basically our rainy day fund,” Neau said.

Municipalities generally should maintain reserves equal to at least three months of payroll and said the city’s unrestricted reserves are currently near that minimum level, Tornincasa added.

Councilmember John Clerici

praised city employees for developing a balanced budget despite limited staffing.

“I think it’s important for the public to know that we run the same — in fact arguably a bigger city today than was being run 20 or 25 years ago — and we do it with 20 fewer

employees,” he said.

Neau also defended the planned acquisition of 681 Main St., saying it offers a cost-effective alternative to constructing a new public safety building.

“Previously we were looking for a public safety building that was going to cost $20-$40 million,” she said.

“We’ve come up with solutions to do that with a million and a half, keep everything in house, and not have to ask for tax measures or bonds.”

Clerici said relocating city operations into the new building is expected to reduce future maintenance costs and improve facilities for both the Police

Suspect

Continued from A1

after the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office received a report that shots had been fired at a Pacific Gas and Electric Co. work crew, and that one of those workers had been injured.

A sheriff’s SWAT team was deployed to the scene at a residence on Mountain View Drive at about 7:25 a.m., and officers spent three

Department and fire department while allowing the city to shed aging buildings that require significant repairs.

The adopted capital improvement budget allocates $750,000 for the Placerville Drive bridge replacement, $1.36 million for the Placerville Drive bridge and pedestrian facilities project, $516,070 for sewer enterprise debt service and reserves for future Measure H and Measure L construction projects.

The resolution also authorizes the finance director to provide quarterly reports to the City Council on the city’s revenues and expenditures throughout the fiscal year.

hours attempting to deescalate the situation before the shooting occurred.

The deputies who sustained gunshot wounds were identified as Joshua Stillman and Craig Reimche. Carter, who was also shot during the March 12 incident, faces multiple counts of felony attempted murder.

Friday Jul 3rd

410 L St, Sacra‐mento

Dreamscape @ 10pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Vices To Virtues LIVE at Boeger Winery @ 12pm Boeger Winery, 1709 Carson Rd, Placerville

June Cavlan @ Fillmore Jazz Festival 2026 @ 12:30pm Fillmore Street Stairs, 2799-2701 Fillmore St, San Francisco

Kids Markets at City of Davis Fourth of July Celebration @ 5pm A crafts market with kids as the vendors where children ages 5-17 learn and grow self-con�dence, responsibility, and money man‐agement skills while earning and keeping 100% of their profits. Community Park, 203 East 14th Street, Davis

Danni Nicholls @ 5:30pm The Blue Rose, 504 Walnut St, Woodland Lakeside Laughs Comedy Club @ 8pm The Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe

Sindustry Sundays: 4th of July Edition - NILE, Jeff Straw @ 9pm Butter, 354 11th St, San Francisco

7/06

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

Coach Olivia G - Learn to ride 4pm @ 4pm / $125 Panhandle Playground, Ashbury and Fell, (Ashbury and fell in the open area near the panhandle playground), San Francisco. 925440-7983

Znora,

Mare Island's Spirit Ship Celebra‐tion @ 5:30pm / $10 Two anniversaries. One unforgettable night. Join us July 4th on Mare Island for the Spirit Ship Cele‐bration! Live Music. Magic Show. Drone Show. Food. Drink and Family Fun! Coal Sheds, 860 Nimitz Avenue, Vallejo. re becca.kotch@mareis landco.com, 323-8065900

Danni Nicholls @ 6pm House Show, 1786 Nicoleno Ct, South Lake Tahoe

Danni Nicholls @ 6pm House Show, South Lake Tahoe

Los Cochinos: City of American Canyon 4th of July Celebration! @ 6pm Community Park 2, Donaldson Way, American Canyon

Matt Mitchell: 4th of JulyMargaritaville - S. Lake Tahoe (DWC) @ 7pm Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe, 4130 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe

Wonder Bread 5: 4th of July with WB5 at Oxbow Commons @ 7pm Oxbow Commons, 1268 McKinstry St., Napa

Computer Kill | San Francisco

@ 7:30pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

Arcade 9 @ Jam Cellars Napa (FREE SHOW) @ 9pm JaM Cellars, 1460 First St., Napa

JustJovani: PAN POT @ HALCYON @ 10pm Halcyon SF, 314 11th St, San Fran‐cisco

Dracula @ 1pm Orpheum Theatre-San Francisco, San Francisco

Miranda Love Solo @ Paddle House Brews @ 2pm Paddle House Brews, 3135 Harri‐son Ave, South Lake Tahoe

Alex Ramon "Magic" @ 3pm The Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe Pedroz @ 6pm Halcyon SF, 314 11th St, San Fran‐cisco

Poems(US): Poems @ Kilowatt Bar @ 7:30pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

CALIFOR‐NIA CLASSIC - DAY 3 @ 5pm

Golden 1 Center, Sacramento

Coach Olivia G - Learn to ride 5pm @ 5pm / $125 Panhandle Playground, Ashbury and Fell, (Ashbury and fell in the open area near the panhandle playground), San Francisco. 925440-7983

Elevation Rhythm (Rescheduled from 1/29/26)

@ 6:30pm

Ace of Spades, 1417 R Street, Sacramento

Elevation Rhythm - The Goodbye Yesterday Tour

@ 6:30pm Ace of Spades, Sacramento ELEVATION RHYTHM

@ 6:30pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento

Strings and Heart @ 6:30pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento

Danni Nicholls @ 7:30pm Watermelon Music, 1970 Lake Blvd #1, Davis

Danni Nicholls Live @ The Melon Bal @ 7:30pm / $20 Live Americana music at The Melon Ball Watermelon Music, 1970 Lake Boulevard, Davis. receiving@water melonmusic.com, 530-758-4010

Lakeside Laughs Comedy Club

@ 8pm The Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe

kali rae: POV World Tour

@ 9pm Chase Center, 1 Warriors Way, San Francisco

The Spiral Electric + Znora + Silverset @ 6pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Znora @ 6pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Intro to Watercolor @ 6pm / $120 Learn the relaxing and magical world of watercolor in this weekly Watercolor Series. Discovery Cam‐pus, 503 3rd Street, Napa. pro grams@nvef.org, 707-200-1224

The Console Collective @ 6:15pm Adult Video Game Club Fair�eld Civic Center Library, 1150 Ken‐tucky Street, Fair�eld. anwinter@ solanolibrary.gov

Dracula @ 7pm Orpheum Theatre-San Francisco, San Francisco

Dylan LeBlanc @ 7pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Goldpine Live @ The Melon Ball @ 7:30pm / $20 Watermelon Music, 1970 Lake Boulevard, Davis. receiving@watermelonmusic.com, 530-7584010 Bold, gold harmonies straight from Nashville! Americana duo Goldpine brings its acclaimed blend of heartfelt songwriting and dynamic live performance to The Melon Ball.

The

Iluka

Donovan Plant: The Angry Outlaws at Mabuhay Gardens @ 8pm Mabuhay

ILUKA

BIIANCO

1015 Folsom, 1015 Folsom Street, San Francisco

BIIANCO @ 9pm 1015 Folsom, 1015 Folsom St, San Francisco

Slice: A Juried Exhibit of Regional Art @ 11:30am Jul 10th - Aug 16th View a diverse selection of art by California artists in our annual Slice exhibit! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370

Mirabel Wigon: Earth Stars @ 11:30am Jul 10th - Aug 16th View a new exhibit by Mirabel Wigon at the Pence! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocial media@gmail.com, 530-758-3370

LIVE@DCC 2nd Friday Free Noon Concert July 10 at the Davis Community Church - Yolo Hot Club! @ 12pm Come cool your heels to the sooth‐ing sounds of "Yolo Hot Club", at Live@DCC's 2nd Friday free noon concert series, July 10, noon1pm, at the Davis Community Church, 4th and "C" Streets, Davis. Davis Community Church, Davis. lu annhiggs@gmail.com, 916-6008872

2nd Friday ArtAbout at the Pence Gallery @ 6pm Browse all of our new exhibits dur‐ing July's opening reception! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@gmail.com, 530-758-3370

Davis AquaStarz Annual Water Show @ 7pm / $10-$15

Davis AquaStarz Synchro‐nized Swimming Team An‐nual Water Show: Totally 80's! Community Pool, 201 E. 14th Street, Davis. aquastarzweb@gmail.com

jousting @ 7pm The Natural LLC, 358 Brannan St, San Francisco

Katie Knipp Live @ The Melon Ball @ 7:30pm / $20 Powerhouse Blues and Americana artist from Northern California. Wa‐termelon Music, 1970 Lake Boule‐vard, Davis.

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Stellar Students

Congratulation to Mia Barsotti, Gavin Sweyd and Ella Vlautin of El Dorado Hills who were recently named to the President’s List and Isaac Bean of El Dorado Hills and Preston Vukovich of Shingle Springs who were recently named to the Dean’s List at The University of Alabama.

July 1

All Ages Rockstar Karaoke hosted by KJ Ari Galindo will take place, 8-10 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

July 2

34th annual High Sierra Music Festival will take place through Sunday at the Nevada County Fairgrounds. Learn more at highsierramusic.com.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento will host Thursday Jazz Night with Vivian Lee from 7-8:45 p.m. For tickets and more information visit crockerart. org.

July 3

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.

Save the Graves will host the Green Valley Road Cemetery Tour at Jayhawk Cemetery, 4551 Deer Valley Road in Rescue from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information visit savethegraveseldorado.org.

Sentivo Vineyards tasting room in Shingle Springs will host a Summer Concert Series with Cynthia Renee from 6-8:30 p.m. Learn more at sentivovineyards.com.

Straight Shooters — Bad Company tribute will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

El Dorado Hills Town Center will host its annual Fireworks & Freedom celebration from 6-11 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

The city of South Lake Tahoe will host its annual Fourth of July Celebration culminating in the Lights on the Lake reworks and sundown. Learn more at visitlaketahoe.com.

The Sacramento Zoo will host Community Days with discount tickets Friday and Saturday. For more information visit saczoo.org.

July 4

The Pollock Pines/Camino Community Center at 2675 Sanders Drive in Pollock Pines will host a Fouth of July Pancake Breakfast fundraiser, 8-10 a.m. For more information visit pollockpinesca.org.

Pleasant Valley Day will take place with its annual Independence Day Parade beginning at 11 a.m. and celebration at Pleasant Valley Fire Station. Learn more at pleasantvalleycommunityhall. com.

■ See KNOW, page B5

El Dorado Roses receive recognitions

El Dorado County Supervisors and State Senate honor Roses for 50 years of service

Mountain Democrat sta

The El Dorado Rose Corporation is celebrating 50 years of honoring volunteerism and community service after receiving recognition from both the California Senate and the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors for its enduring impact on the community.

The milestone was marked with a Senate member resolution presented by Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil on the Senate floor, as well as a proclamation from the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors.

Established in 1976, the El Dorado Rose Program recognizes women aged 60 and older who have demonstrated outstanding volunteerism, leadership and commitment to their communities. Over the past five decades, the program has become a longstanding El Dorado County tradition, celebrating community service while preserving the region’s Gold Rush heritage through events such as the annual El Dorado Rose Ball and Pageant.

“I was honored to recognize the El Dorado Rose Corporation on this milestone 50th anniversary,” Alvarado-Gil said. “These women devoted countless hours to improving

the lives of others, and their selfless service has made El Dorado County a better place to live, work, and raise a family. The El Dorado Roses reminded us all of the power of community spirit and civic pride.”

The senator honored several members for their dedication and service: Claudia Bethke, Gail Butler, Coco DeCarlo, Jane Fergason, Ellen Fisher, Sandra Hand, Diane Lehr, Mary Meader, Sherry Phillipsen, Kimm Richwine, Pan Henderson and Nancy Ehrlich. Alvarado-Gil said the organization continues to serve as a historical ambassador for El Dorado County while fostering community connections and recognizing the contributions of local women. She also invited her Senate colleagues to congratulate the organization on its anniversary and celebrate its lasting influence throughout the county.

At the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors meeting, District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp presented a proclamation recognizing the organization’s decades of volunteerism and ambassadorial service at civic events, parades and community celebrations.

“Please join me in celebrating

a momentous occasion — 50 years of beauty, of grace, of a blessing to this county,” Veerkamp said. “The El Dorado Rose represents many accomplishments of today’s older women. She is a survivor, having experienced many changes in her lifetime.”

Veerkamp said the women, despite their varied backgrounds, share “a deep interest and commitment to our community’s welfare.”

“If you have been around at all in the last 50 years, you see them almost everywhere,” Veerkamp said, recalling the traditional congratulatory kiss contestants receive after winning the annual Placerville Wheelbarrow Races. “This county is so much better o because of all of you.”

District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo also praised the organization’s contributions and noted that El Dorado Rose Court Member Gay Willard was named El Dorado County Woman of the Year.

“They’re everywhere, is what they are, and they represent our county very, very well,” Turnboo said.

El Dorado Rose Sherry Phillipsen accepted the county proclamation on behalf of the organization.

“Thank you for honoring us on our 50th anniversary,”

Phillipsen said. “We’re thrilled.”

The El Dorado Rose Corporation is a nonprofit organization that annually recognizes women for exceptional volunteerism and community service. Each year, a new El Dorado Rose is selected during the El Dorado County Fair. Dressed in early Californian attire, the Roses serve as goodwill ambassadors, representing the county at parades, festivals, civic ceremonies and other community events throughout the year.

The organization’s 50th anniversary celebration continued June 18 during the annual El Dorado Rose Pageant at the El Dorado County Fair, where Gail Butler was selected as the 2026 El Dorado Rose. Together, the state and county recognitions underscore the organization’s longstanding role in celebrating civic engagement and preserving local history. For 50 years, generations of El Dorado Roses have represented the county through volunteer service, public appearances and community leadership, continuing a tradition that honors the contributions of women while strengthening connections throughout El Dorado County.

Make a toast to 40 years at Lava Cap Winery

Mimi Escabar

Special sections editor

A40 year El Dorado County wine making saga has its origins in Menominee, Michigan.

The late David L. and professorship at the University of California, Berkeley. Besides rocks, soil and fossils the couple also had an entrepreneurial spirit and an interest in wine grapes. Trips to the Sierra board.

“The property had to be beautiful, have water and have unique geological properties,” Nolan Jones, son of Charlie and Noreen, said.

A 65-acre pear farm

the winery sits on and the logo of a Steller’s jay was the inspiration of Jeanne. She was fond of birds and particularly

“It was a favorite bird of hers,” Charlie said.

The first crop was harvested in the early ’80s but there were no buyers so the decision was made to make wine. Lava Cap opened in June 1986 with first its first vintage and a lot of From that early chardonnay other varietals now grow where once potatoes and then pears did. More acreage was purchased and more grapes are being planted. Five more acres are in the planning stages for next

Big milestone Lava Cap now in its

blood during the Independence Day holiday period, when donations traditionally decline even as hospitals continue to rely on a steady blood supply for Donors who give blood between July 1 and July 11 and enroll in the Vitalant Donor Rewards program may choose one of three limited-edition summerthemed T-shirts.

Those who schedule an appointment using the code JULYGIFT2026-V also will receive a $20 gift card, while supplies last.

The need for blood remains constant yearround for patients undergoing cancer treatment, trauma care, surgeries and treatment for chronic illnesses. Vitalant said donations often reach some of the lowest levels of the season around the Fourth of July because fewer people are

T40th year features 29 different wines and varietals and looks to a bright future capitalizing on its foundation of paying attention to making high quality wine at a reasonable price.

“Consistency and quality is important when building a customer base,” Nolan said.

“Success also comes from offering new things. We have a gamay Beaujolais coming out,” Kevin added.

Lava Cap has also found popularity with guests enjoying the wine, the charming tasting room, the friendly personnel and the beautifully landscaped grounds and deck overlooking the vineyards.

“We not only need to maintain quality in our winemaking but offer

available to donate.

Among those helped by blood donations is Sarah Ortiz, who was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a form of bone cancer, at age 21.

During chemotherapy, she relied on blood and platelet transfusions that helped her recover.

“I was nervous at first to receive a blood transfusion, but by the time I was done, I had color in my cheeks, my gums turned pink, and I had energy, so much so, I became chatty and vibrant,” Ortiz said.

“Each time I received blood, I felt like a new person again.”

Vitalant said all blood types are needed, with an especially critical demand for Type O blood and platelet donors. Type O blood can be given to patients of any blood type in emergencies, while platelets are essential for controlling bleeding and have a shelf life of

he American River Conservancy will welcome music lovers back to historical Wakamatsu Farm this summer for the fourth season of its outdoor concert series, with proceeds supporting stewardship of the nonprofit’s protected lands.

The concerts, held at Wakamatsu Farm in Placerville, raise money for the American River Conservancy’s Resilience Reserve, a fund dedicated to helping the organization manage, repair and restore its conserved properties following extreme weather events. Ticket sales and donations directly support those efforts.

This year’s series features Little Hurricane on July 11 and Red Dirt

a quality experience,” Charlie said.

Families are welcome and invited to bring picnics to take in the picturesque setting.

“One of our goals has always been to be a casual spot for families, friends and everyone to visit,” Noreen said. The family business appreciates the support from the community and its customers.

“We listen to the comments and pay attention to what our guests desire. We do everything we can to make their visit a great one,” Charlie said.

To taste the awardwinning wines and experience the all the good things happening at Lava Cap Winery make a visit to 2221 Fruitridge Road in Placerville. For more information call (530) 621-0175.

only about one week. Most healthy adults are eligible to donate blood.

Upcoming El Dorado County Vitalant blood drives

July 8, 1:30-3:45 p.m. — Shingle Springs Elks Lodge, 3821 Quest Court, Shingle Springs

July 9, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. — El Dorado Hills

El Dorado Hills

CSD parking lot, 1021 Harvard Way, El Dorado Hills

July 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Cameron Park

Moonraker

Millhouse Brewery, 3501 Robin Lane, Cameron Park

Appointments may be made by calling (877) 258-4825 or online at vitalant.org.

Ruckus on Aug. 15. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., with performances generally running from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Admission ends at 8 p.m.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Food will be available for purchase from Wani’s Tacos, along with beer and wine beginning at 5:30 p.m. Outside food and alcohol are not permitted. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable cups, and pets are not allowed. All ticket sales are final and nonrefundable.

More information about the American River Conservancy’s Resilience Reserve is available at arconservancy.org/arcrr.

Time to plan those Fourth of July celebrations

Mountain Democrat staff

From lakeside fireworks to hometown parades and family festivals, communities across El Dorado County are preparing to celebrate Independence Day with events throughout the holiday weekend.

July 3

Fireworks & Freedom Festivities kick off Thursday, July 3, in El Dorado Hills, where the annual Fireworks & Freedom celebration returns to the El Dorado Hills Town Center from 6-11 p.m.. The free event begins at 6 p.m. with live entertainment, family activities and food vendors before a fireworks show caps the evening. The Funk Shui Band will perform in the Theater Plaza while Hip Service takes the amphitheater stage before the fireworks display. The Hands4Hope Kids Zone will feature carnival games, bounce houses, face painting and other activities. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

July 4

Lights on the Lake

The city of South Lake Tahoe hosts its annual Fourth of July Celebration, culminating in the Lights on the Lake fireworks spectacular over Lake Tahoe. The show attracts thousands of visitors to beaches, parks and boats around the lake. Fireworks begin shortly after sunset, weather permitting.Learn more at visitlaketahoe.com.

Fourth of July Family Blast

On Friday, July 4, the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville will host its annual Fourth of July Family Blast. Gates open at 3 p.m. with carnival rides, water slides, children's games, hay mazes, food vendors and live music before fireworks light up the evening sky after dark. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, coolers

Tand propane barbecues while enjoying one of the county's largest Independence Day celebrations. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.

Pleasant Valley Day

Pleasant Valley Day returns July 4 with a full day of family activities beginning with a pancake breakfast from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Pleasant Valley Grange. The annual Independence Day Parade starts at 11 a.m., followed by food, games and refreshments at the Pleasant Valley Fire Station until 1 p.m. Signups for the parade begin at 9 a,.m. at the Pleasant Valley Fire Statin. Learn more at pleasant valleycommunityhall. com.

Garden Valley Fourth of July Parade

Garden Valley will celebrate Independence Day with its 55th annual Fourth of July Parade and Celebration on Saturday, July 4. Festivities begin at 9 a.m. at Garden Valley Park, at the corner

he St. Patrick Ladies Society is preparing for its 88th annual rummage sale.

“If you have never been to this rummage sale, you are in for a treat,” Chairman Karen Jones said. “We have a huge inventory of clothing, toys, goods, jewelry, small appliances, shoes and whatever other treasures the parish chooses to give.”

Purchases are typically cash or check only, but this year shoppers will also have the option to pay by credit card to help move lines more quickly. The sale will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 6-7 and from 9 a.m. to noon

of Marshall Road and Garden Valley Road, with the parade stepping off at 10 a.m. from the Garden Valley Fire House. The event will feature arts and crafts vendors, food, a raffle with a grand prize, Kirby's Kid Zone and live music on the park stage. Learn more at gdrd.org.

Pollock Pines-Camino Independence Day Parade

The Pollock PinesCamino Rotary Club will host its annual Independence Day Parade on July 4, celebrating America's 250th anniversary with a community parade beginning at noon. Participants may enter decorated vehicles, while spectators are encouraged to bring chairs and enjoy the festivities. Parade check-in runs from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. near Shell Crystal View Station. Entry costs is $25 on parade day. The route ends at the Community Center. Learn more at pollockpinescaminorotary.org. Officials remind

Aug. 8.

Some items may be marked halfprice during the Aug. 7 sale. On the final day, Aug. 8, shoppers can take advantage of the popular “bag day,” when they can fill provided brown paper bags for $2 each. Items larger than a grocery bag will be half-price, and some items are excluded from the discounts.

The sale does not include furniture, books or electronics. Proceeds benefit parish ministries. The sale will be held in the church hall at 3109 Sacramento St., Placerville. For more information, call the church office at (530) 6220373.

residents that personal fireworks remain illegal throughout El Dorado County, including those labeled "Safe and Sane." Community members are encouraged to attend one of the county's professionally produced fireworks shows instead. Those planning to attend outdoor celebrations should also stay informed about fire conditions and any weather-related updates that could affect scheduled events.

Herbed Garden

Marmalade

The county fair is over (did you enter any home-canned goods this year?) and gardens are currently overflowing with vegetables and herbs. Give this marmalade a try. The recipe comes from the “Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving,” 37th edition (2014).

Herbed Garden

Marmalade

Yield: About five half-pint jars

• 3 cups chopped, seeded, peeled and cored tomatoes (about 1½ pounds)

• 2 teaspoons slivered lemon peel

• 1/4 cup bottled lemon juice

• 1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)*

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil (or 1½ teaspoons dried)*

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)*

•

•

•

•

•

• 1 package regular powdered pectin (or 6 tablespoons)

• 4½ cups sugar

Prepare a boilingwater canner or atmospheric steam canner. Heat cleaned jars in the canner until ready to use. Do not boil; keep water simmering at 180 degrees. Wash lids in warm, soapy water and set aside with bands. Place prepared tomatoes in a large stainless-steel saucepan. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Add the lemon peel, bottled lemon juice, garlic, herbs and pectin to the cooked tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Add sugar, stirring until dissolved, and return to a full rolling boil for 1 minute. Remove from the heat. Skim foam, if needed. Ladle hot marmalade into a hot jar, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary. Wipe the jar rim clean. Center the lid on the jar. Apply the band and adjust to fingertip-tight. Place the jar in the canner. Repeat until all jars are filled. Water must cover jars by at least 1 inch in a boiling-water canner or

come to the base of the rack in a steam canner. Adjust heat to mediumhigh, cover the canner and bring the water to a rolling boil in a boilingwater canner or until there’s a steady stream of steam coming from the steam canner for 1 minute.

Process pint jars for 10 minutes at elevations of 0 to 1,000 feet; 15 minutes at 1,001 to 3,000 feet; 20 minutes at 3,001 to 6,000 feet; and 25 minutes at 6,001 to 8,000 feet. Turn off the heat. For a boiling-water canner, remove the lid and let jars stand for five minutes. For an atmospheric steam

with vegetables and herbs.

canner, let the canner sit undisturbed for five minutes, then remove the lid. Remove jars and cool on a towellined surface for 12 to 24 hours. Check lids for a seal. Label, date and store in a cool, dark place.

*Dried herbs and spices are stronger than fresh herbs, requiring smaller quantities.

Register today and learn about dehydrating and freeze-drying at our free public class Saturday, July 18, at the Bethell-Delfino Agriculture Building in Placerville.

El Dorado County students receive

Two El Dorado County students are among 245 recipients of the 2026 Member Education Award scholarships presented by SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union.

The credit union awarded $207,750 in scholarships through the annual program, which is in its 26th year. Scholarships are awarded based on grade point average, rigor of coursework, letters of recommendation, community involvement, school activities and leadership experience.

“For more than 25 years, the Member Education

Award scholarship program has recognized students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership and a commitment to their communities,” said Josh Smith, vice president of school and community relations for SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union. “We are proud to support these outstanding Members as they continue their educational journeys and work toward achieving their goals.”

The El Dorado County recipients are Shasta Yielding of Diamond Springs, who attends Union Mine High School, and Skyler Schlavin of Placerville, who attends El Dorado High

For garden hours and activity information for the Sherwood Demonstration Garden visit ucanr. edu/sites/EDC_ Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden. Have a gardening question? Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website or leave a message at (530) 621-5512.

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

For more information about UC Master Gardener classes, events and garden resources visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu.

School. The scholarships help cover tuition, books and other educational expenses. Recipients must be members of SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union and enrolled in an accredited college or university for the upcoming fall term.

Founded in 1934 by 126 school employees, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union serves more than 1.5 million members and provides a full range of financial products and services. The member-owned cooperative has more than $36 billion in assets and is the largest credit union in California. For more information, visit schoolsfirstfcu.org.

News release

SACRAMENTO — The Sacramento Shakespeare Festival will celebrate the opening of its 60th anniversary season with a gala reception following the opening

night performance of "Twelfth Night" on July 3 at Sacramento City College.

The Opening Night Gala Reception begins at 9:30 p.m. in the Daubert Courtyard for the Arts on the Sacramento City College campus, 3835 Freeport Blvd.

The event also commemorates the 100th anniversary

of City Theatre at Sacramento City College. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the Theatre Arts and Film Department, meet faculty, students and artists, and explore ways to support the program's continued growth and innovation.

Sacramento City College President Albert Garcia will welcome attendees with opening

remarks. Wine, sparkling beverages and a selection of hors d'oeuvres will be served during the reception. The evening begins with the 7:30 p.m. performance of "Twelfth Night," followed by the gala reception. Learn more at sacramentoshakespeare. net.

Cottonwood graduate receives prestigious scholarship

Grace Damico, a recent graduate of Cottonwood High School and a Folsom resident, has been selected to receive a $2,500 STAR Scholarship from the PEO Sisterhood. She was recommended by PEO Chapter PI of Placerville. The PEO STAR Scholarship was established in 2009 to provide scholarships for exceptional high school senior women in their final year of high school who plan to attend an accredited postsecondary educational institution in the United States or Canada during the following academic year. The competitive STAR Scholarship recognizes women who demonstrate excellence in leadership, academics, extracurricular activities, community service and potential for future success.

Damico is a member of the National Honor Society and earned the Girl Scouts of the USA Silver Award, Gold Award and Rose Award. She volunteered and led fundraising efforts for NorCal Freedom for Paws, a foster-based animal rescue. While still in high school and earning college credit at Jessup University, she volunteered in a kindergarten

Georgetown Divide Recreation District will host its Fourth of July Parade and Celebration beginning at 10 a.m. at Garden Valley Park. Learn more at gdrd. org.

The Pollock Pines-Camino Rotary Club will host its annual Independence Day Parade beginning at noon. The route ends at the Community Center. Learn more at pollockpinescaminorotary.org.

Boeger Winery in Placerville will host a Fourth of July Hang Out at noon with live music from Vices to Virtues. For more information visit boegerwinery. com.

The El Dorado County Fairgrounds will host its annual Fourth of July Family Blast beginning at 3 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocountyfair.org.

The Nipper Brothers — Grateful Dead tribute will perform, 8-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more

classroom and wrote, illustrated and published the children's book, "The Life of Hollywood," about finding life's purpose. She will continue her studies at Jessup University this fall to pursue a bachelor of arts degree. Her ultimate goal is to become an elementary school teacher.

Chapter PI has served the Foothill community since it was organized in 1978.

PEO, or Philanthropic Educational Organization, has been motivating, educating and celebrating women for more than 155 years. Since its founding in 1869, the nonprofit organization has helped more than 129,000 women pursue their educational goals by providing approximately $462 million in grants, scholarships, awards and loans.

The Sisterhood is also the primary supporter of Cottey College. Through its membership, the PEO Sisterhood has brought together more than half a million women across the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education while supporting and encouraging them. In addition to its educational philanthropies, the PEO Sisterhood provides a framework

information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Registration is open for Competition K9’s free Kid’z Kamp that meets Sundays from 2-4 p.m. July 12 through Aug. 2. For more information call (530) 620-3000 or visit CompK9.net/ Events.

The El Dorado Hills Arts Association will host a display of Fine Art at the Teaspoon Gallery in El Dorado Hills Town Center through July 15. For more information visit eldoradohillsarts.com.

The Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Botanical Brushstrokes through July 19. For more information visit edhtowncenter. 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.

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

Miraflores Winery, 2120 Four Springs Trail in Placerville, is having Sparkling Sundays, the one day of the week where two fabulous sparklers are poured. Try a complimentary tasting of Blanc de Noirs and Brut. Both are crafted with organically grown grapes from Sonoma County and created in the traditional Methode Champenoise style. For more information call (530) 647-8505 or email info@ mirafloreswinery.com.

The Gallery at 48 Natoma presents Sombremesa, ceramic works and paintings by Alejandra and Luis Magaña of ALMa Design Studio through July 1 with an artist reception from 6-8 p.m.

of support and community for its members.

What began as a bond of friendship among seven women in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, has grown into one of North America's oldest women's

For more information call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us/ government/parks-recreation/ facilities/gallery-at-48-natoma.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents “Working for Crumbs” through July 12 at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

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.

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

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Suzanne Adan — I’m No Spring Chicken through Oct. 11; and Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030; For more information visit

organizations, with more than 5,400 chapters.

To learn more about PEO, its educational philanthropies and stories of women who have benefited from its programs, visit peointernational.org.

crockerart.org.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento hosts Art Rx, Docent led discussions for those with chronic pain and their friends, family and caregivers, second and fourth Saturdays at 11 a.m.; Meet Me at the Museum: tours designed for visitors with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, using art observation and conversation to foster engagement and social interaction, second Fridays at 11 a.m.; and Highly Descriptive Tours, 50-minute tours with detailed verbal descriptions and guided discussion for blind or low-vision individuals and their guests, fourth Fridays at 1 p.m. For more information visit crockerart.org.

California Railroad Museum will present All Aboard for Story Time every Monday at 11 a.m. This program is included with Museum admission. For more information visit californiarailroad.museum.

Check out Placerville Cars and Coffee every Saturday, 7-9 a.m. at Lions Park. Hang out with other car enthusiasts.

EDH Cars and Coffee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. The motto is “If it rolls, it goes.”

Marshal Gold Discovery Park will host Living History Days every second Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit marshallgold.com.

The Pollock Pines Community Center will host a Yoga Class every Monday at 10:30 a.m, Bingo Night every Tuesday at 5 p.m. and a Beginners Line Dancing Throwdown from 6:30-9 p.m. For more information visit pollockpinesca.org.

The Georgetown Library will host the Thursdays at Two Poetry Group every first and third Thursday of the month.

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Mount Judah Loop Trail

The Mount Judah Loop Trail is why I am a day hiker. This 5-mile moderate hike offers everything I love about hiking: magnificent views, a profusion of wildflowers and even snow in August. The trail begins at 7,050 feet and climbs 1,150 feet. From the top of the ridge, you'll enjoy sweeping views of Donner Lake stretching into Truckee, as well as Mount Lincoln, Anderson Ridge, Anderson Peak, Tinker Knob and beyond. My dog, Stella, stretched her legs and greeted many other happy hikers and their dogs along this portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. It's worth the hourlong drive east on Interstate 80 to the Soda Springs exit. Stay right off the freeway onto Donner Pass Road. Pass Sugar Bowl Road and, a few hundred yards beyond the Sugar Bowl parking area, you'll see a small cluster of buildings that once housed the Sugar Bowl Academy. Turn right into the parking area, then veer right down the narrow road leading to the trailhead and off-road parking. A trail map at the trailhead highlights several local routes and landmarks. In the bottom right corner, you'll find the

Mount Judah Loop Trail.

The trail begins on decomposed granite, nearly overwhelmed by lush vegetation in rich shades of green topped with red, orange, pink, purple, yellow and white flowers. The climb starts quickly, ascending granite switchbacks exposed to the sun. The trail then levels out into a forest of pine, aspen and alder overlooking Lake Mary. I expected to see plenty of mule's ear in bloom but was thrilled to discover so much more, including patches of snow, a delightful surprise.

About a mile in, you'll reach a sign marking the intersection of the Donner Pass Trail and the Mount Judah Loop Trail. Follow the Mount Judah Loop Trail.

Another sign farther along directs you to the right to continue the loop toward the peak.

You'll know when you reach the summit. The wind rushes from every direction, dropping the temperature by a

refreshing 10 degrees, depending on the time of day. After settling onto one of the rocks scattered across the top of Mount Judah, enjoying a snack and snapping several panoramic photos, we began our descent. This trail has become quite popular. Dogs are welcome and, while we encountered other hikers, we had the peak to ourselves. The direct sun along the ridge may call for another layer of sunscreen. A hat and sunglasses are also advisable. The loose granite makes walking sticks helpful. The trail winds down the mountainside, meandering through forest and lush greenery before returning to the first intersection and the granite steps that lead back to the trailhead.

Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Mother Teresa Maternity Home received a $5,000 donation from Safeway during the grand reopening of the company’s Placerville store June 25 at 3955 Missouri Flat Road.

Co-founder Jane Meuser accepted the donation on behalf of the nonprofit during a presentation attended by Safeway representatives, local dignitaries and community members.

Founded in 1997, Mother Teresa Maternity Home is a privately funded nonprofit at 3122 Sacramento St. in Placerville. The organization’s mission is to provide temporary housing, mentorship and connections to community resources for pregnant women in crisis as they complete their pregnancies and prepare for the future.

The donation will help the maternity home continue providing

safe housing, compassionate care and essential resources to pregnant women in need. Meuser thanked Safeway for its commitment to supporting the local community and organizations that serve vulnerable mothers and their children. The grand reopening highlighted Safeway’s continued investment in Placerville and its commitment to partnering with local nonprofits that support area residents.

Safeway is celebrating its 100th anniversary of serving Northern California communities. The company, founded in 1926, is marking the milestone with its “Centennial Shuffle,” running June 24-30.

The weeklong promotion features interactive in-store activities and prize drawings, with customers eligible to win grocery credits, other giveaways and two new SUVs.

Learn more about Mother Theresa Maternity Home at motherteresamaternityhome.org.