Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, July 8, 2026

FREEDOM & FUN

Shelly Thorene

writer

A man suspected of driving under the influence faces charges after a July 5 crash left his passenger dead, according the California Highway Patrol –Placerville. Meredith Hoag, 72, of El Dorado Hills perished at the scene in a solo vehicle rollover that occurred around 5:20 p.m. Sunday on Fairplay Road north of Stoney Creek Road in Somerset when the driver of the 1959 MG coupe, identified as David Dellaquia, 61, of Fiddletown, lost control of the car on a sweeping left curve, CHP o cials shared. Fairplay Road was closed for approximately three hours after the wreck, allowing emergency crews to respond and investigators to search the scene.

The driver sustained minor injuries and was transported to Marshall Hospital, and later booked into El Dorado County Jail in Placerville. He was not listed in custody as of Monday afternoon. Dellaquia faces charges of vehicular manslaughter and felony DUI.

and private pilots.

For drone operators: If You Fly, We Can’t Keep drones entirely away from active incidents. Flying a drone near a wildfire poses an immediate risk to the lives of aircrews and forces an immediate shutdown of aerial operations, stalling critical water and retardant drops. It is also illegal. No drones in fire zones.

ESSENTIALS

OBITUARIES

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.”

Kristine Carter

May 7, 1957 – June 8, 2026

With profound sadness and endless love, we announce the passing of Kristine Carter, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and dear friend. Though she left this world far too soon, the impact she made on the lives of those around her will be felt for years to come.

Kristine was born and raised in the Bay Area, where she developed the kindness, strength, and compassion that became the foundation of her life. In 1985 she moved to Placerville, a community she proudly called home for the next four decades. There, she raised her children, built lifelong friendships, and became a familiar and respected presence throughout the community.

For more than 30 years, Kris worked as an insurance agent, helping countless individuals and families. Through her dedication, professionalism, and genuine care for others, she earned the trust and admiration of clients, colleagues, and friends alike.

Kristine loved her family and friends above all else. Known as the “hostess with the mostess,” she had a special gift for bringing people together, filling her home with laughter, love, and lasting memories.

She is survived by her loving husband, Richard Carter; her children, Nick Petrocelli, Angela Benoit, Joseph Carter and Bobby Carter; her cherished grandchildren; her siblings; and countless friends and extended family members.

While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing she is at peace. Our Krissy, aka Lucy, will live in our hearts forever and will never be forgotten. She was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

A celebration of life is scheduled for August 29, 2026. Please contact Angela at (530) 391-3031 for additional details.

Dixie Lee Foote

Oct. 2, 1946 – June 21, 2026

Dixie was born to Gus and Connie Pipkin on Oct 2, 1946 in Biloxi, Mississippi. The daughter of an Air Force pilot, Dixie moved all over the U.S. as a child, before graduating from Highlands High School in 1964. At the young age of 18, she married Bob Foote, sharing a love that endured 60 years till death they did part. With two young children, Dixie briefly found employment with the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Department before establishing a long career with the County Board of Supervisors, eventually becoming Clerk of the Board.

Volunteers leave Tahoe better than they found it

Keep Tahoe Blue News release

LAKE TAHOE — On July 5, 446 local and visiting volunteers gave up three hours of their holiday weekends to show love for Lake Tahoe by participating in the 13th annual Keep Tahoe Red, White & Blue Cleanup hosted by Keep Tahoe Blue in partnership with more than a dozen organizations and businesses. Participants equipped with reusable bags, clipboards to tally data and grabbers fanned out across six beach sites around the lake, stretching from Kings Beach to Kiva Beach, as part of Tahoe’s largest annual cleanup event.

“We feel like it’s our lake too,” said volunteers Roberta and Russ, Southern California residents who have visited Tahoe each summer for 40 years. “This event is a great way to help.”

Lake Tahoe draws large crowds over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. Numerous organizations — including Keep Tahoe Blue, the USDA Forest Service, and Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Council, to name a few — have provided tips and encouragement for beachgoers to be good stewards as they celebrate, so Tahoe stays healthy and beautiful. When people see volunteers actively taking care of Tahoe, it is a living, breathing example of the central stewardship message: everyone who enjoys this special place has a role to play in protecting it.

“I was walking down the beach, and a young couple stopped and asked what I was looking for,” recalled Lisa, a volunteer

The following information was taken from PPD reports:

June 21

8:50 a.m. Objects thrown at a vehicle was reported at Highway 50 and Canal Street.

6:52 p.m. Battery was reported at Coloma and Green streets.

A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, her love was family, sewing, quilting, baking and a loyal patron of the arts. Dixie’s sudden diagnosis of cancer resulted in her passing away peacefully on June 21, 2026, in Cumming, Georgia with her two children at her side.

She leaves behind son Robert Tracy Foote (Wife Cecilyn), daughter Teri Putnam (Husband Aaron), and grandchildren Madison Foote, Marley Foote, Ella Putnam and Ethan Putnam.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Green Valley Cemetery in Rescue, California, at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026.

8:33 p.m. Battery was reported at a business on Deena Court.

9:14 p.m. Battery was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.

June 22

5:30 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Clay Street.

6:05 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Broadway.

11:41 a.m. Animal abuse was reported at a business on Broadway.

1:51 p.m. Battery was reported on Coloma Road.

3:39 p.m. An intoxicated person was reported on Briw Road.

4:35 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Forni Road.

6:55 p.m. Vandalism was reported at Ridgecrest Court.

9:50 p.m. Battery was reported at a business on Fair Lane.

June 23

8:15 a.m. Assault with a deadly weapon was reported on Tunnel Street.

9:12 a.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Fair Lane.

4:48 p.m. Battery was reported on Marshall

from Sparks, Nev., who grew up in Incline Village. “I said that we’re all with Keep Tahoe Blue cleaning up the beach. They both nodded and looked at each other, and I could see them realize, ‘we should be doing that too’.”

By noon, 446 Keep Tahoe Red, White & Blue volunteers removed 1,330 pounds of litter from the beaches and surrounding parking lots, trails and streets at six separate sites — less litter than average for the annual July 5 event.

For others, their cleanups started after yesterday’s festivities or very early this morning. Community groups, individuals, and staff from beach concessionaires and land managers — like Zephyr Cove Resort, Aramark Destinations and California State Parks — did their own litter removal work, as did other environmental organizations like Clean Up The Lake. That outpouring of effort illustrates that the movement to care for Lake Tahoe is growing.

“We’re incredibly grateful that so many people are doing their part to protect Lake Tahoe,” said Marilee Movius, Keep Tahoe Blue’s sustainable recreation manager. “When we leave the beach better than we found it, we keep this place swimmable, hikeable and enjoyable for future generations.”

Since 2013, Keep Tahoe Blue has conducted cleanup events like this one, where volunteers collect not just litter, but also data on what types of trash they find, where, and how much. By analyzing the data, Keep Tahoe Blue identifies trends and then pushes for solutions that stop litter at the source. Past successes

Way.

7:03 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Forni Road.

June 24

10:29 a.m. Illegal dumping was reported at Broadway and Airport Road.

12:35 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Center Street.

2:08 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a business on Main Street.

4:32 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Schnell School Road.

5:56 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Broadway.

10:02 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Schnell School Road.

June 25

7:19 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Wiltse Road.

8:16 a.m. Indecent exposure was reported at the extension bridge on Placerville Drive.

10:35 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Woodridge Court.

11:39 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Schnell School Road.

1:23 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Schnell School Road.

5:40 p.m. Petty theft was reported on Turner Street.

June 26

4:52 a.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.

include bans on single-use plastic water bottles and styrofoam, the deployment of beach-cleaning robots and a beach management initiative called the Tahoe Blue Beach program. As part of the program, bold new stewardship signage was installed at six beaches this year. It’s part of the collaborative effort between Keep Tahoe Blue, land managers, and businesses to make responsible, Lake-friendly recreation the easy and obvious choice for everyone who comes to the shore. The cleanup was made possible with the support of event partners: Tahoe City Public Utility District, Tahoe City Downtown Association, USFS Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, Zephyr Cove Resort and Aramark Destinations, City of South Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, California State Parks, Northstar Mountain Resort, Protect Our Winters, Great Basin Institute, Heavenly Mountain Resort, Camp Richardson Resort, Valhalla Tahoe, ExplorUS and Bally’s Lake Tahoe.

Keep Tahoe Blue is aligned with and taking action to implement the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan in collaboration with over 20 regional organizations. The award-winning plan, developed with the participation of over 3,000 residents, visitors, and businesses, establishes a shared vision for the region’s outdoor recreation and tourism and encourages everyone to help take care of Tahoe’s cherished communities and environment. Visit stewardshiptahoe.org to learn more and read the plan.

3:22 p.m. Vandalism was reported at Broadway and Blairs Lane.

5:25 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Placerville Drive.

June 27

9:58 a.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

June 28

1:55 a.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Mallard Lane.

5:07 p.m. Trespassing was report at a business on Forni Road.

7:33 p.m. Brandishing was reported on Broadway.

June 29

9:52 a.m. Illegal dumping was reported on Pacific Street.

12:31 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported Main Street.

6:08 p.m. Battery was reported at Woodridge and Ridgecrest courts.

10:06 p.m. A noise disturbance was reported on Mosquito Road.

June 30

2:21 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Briw Road.

8:11 a.m. Petty theft was reported on Benham Court.

2:50 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported at a business on Cold Springs Road.

4:01 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Broadway.

6:46 p.m. A verbal disturbance was reported on Mosquito Road.

Leaning Whitehall Building could be coming down soon

Noel Stack Editor

Noting the building poses an “active and substantial hazard to life, health and public safety,” El Dorado County o cials have reached an agreement with the property owner of 10880 U.S. Highway 50 in Pollock Pines, known as the Whitehall Building, to clean up the structure precariously slanted toward the American River.

“To date, the owner of the Whitehall Building ... is meeting his obligations outlined in the Code Enforcement Compliance Agreement,” confirmed Carla Hass with the El Dorado County Chief Administrative O ce. “He obtained demolition permit No. 0393178 on (June 22) to demolish and remove debris from the western portion of the building that is partially collapsed. The permit also covers the stabilization and enclosure of the remaining structure on the eastern end of the property.”

The project deadline for demolition, stabilization and debris removal is Sept. 1, she added.

Should the owner of the property not remedy the situation in the timeframe provided by Code Enforcement, the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors in mid-May supported a contract with J.A. Snyder Pacific West Inc. to demolish the vacant and damaged structure. Funding for the $100,000 contract — which includes perimeter fencing around the building and boarding up doors and windows (already done) plus demolition and debris removal of vacant or damaged structures — comes from the county’s Code Enforcement Abatement Fund.

“The building has been vacant since the late 1990s, and the condition of the building has continued to deteriorate. Portions of the building have separated and moved o the foundation toward the American River,” a county sta report notes.

“Code Enforcement sta have reached out to the property owner over the past year, who indicated he planned to restore the building,” the report continues. “Code Enforcement requested

OAKLAND — So far this year, monetary losses from scams impacting Pacific Gas and Electric Company customers are on track to outpace 2025, with customers losing more than $211,000 through midyear. To help customers spot the signs of a scam and avoid falling victim, PG&E is sharing important tips and is warning customers of an emerging scam that may be playing a part in that surge. The most common scam continues to involve scammers placing a phone call to PG&E customers with a demand for immediate payment to avoid disconnection. A new wrinkle on that scam has emerged in 2026, where scammers call customers to threaten disconnection, and then send them either a barcode or QR code via text or email. The customer is then instructed to take the barcode or QR code to a store or business to present to a cashier to make payment.

“Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to defraud customers, and the latest ‘barcode scam’ is a prime example of that. What hasn’t changed is that they are still demanding immediate payment of your bill to

securing the building site with fencing and submitting an engineer’s report evaluating the current condition and what would be needed to save the structure.

The property owner secured the building site but to date has not submitted an engineer’s report.”

In April, county sta discussed options for the shifting structure and Code Enforcement sta followed up with the property owner, requesting an inspection by a county engineer. Sta reported they did not get a response and on May 5, Code Enforcement received an inspection warrant from a judge. Two days later a county senior civil engineer, supervising building inspector and Code Enforcement o cer conducted an on-site structural assessment of the Whitehall Building, according to the sta report.

“After the inspection, it was determined by sta that the structure is unsafe and beyond practical repair and poses an active and substantial hazard to life, health and public safety,” the report states. “Due to its condition

and proximity to the American River, it was determined that it is necessary to ... demolish the structure.”

Sta will return to the board with a lien request on the property if the property owner doesn’t follow through and demolition through the abatement process occurs.

“All demolition costs, including sta time, will be included in the lien amount,” the report notes. “The property owner can pay o the lien or it will be recovered at the time the property is sold.”

avoid disconnection,” said PG&E lead scam investigator Matt Foley. “If you receive a call of this nature, hang up. If someone at your door asks to see your utility bill, close the door. Then, call our 800 number or log into your account at PGE.com to verify your billing details.

“Remember, PG&E will never ask you for financial information over the phone or for payment via bar code, QR code or pre-paid debit cards or money transfer services like Zelle, and we won’t ask to see your bill at your door,” he continued.

By the Numbers

• In 2025, PG&E received nearly 24,000 reports from customers who were targeted by scammers impersonating PG&E and lost over $301,000 in fraudulent payments with an average loss of $590.

• By mid-year 2026, customers have already reported over $211,000 in losses to utility scammers, representing a nearly a 30% increase in financial losses by year’s end, with an average loss of $969.

Unfortunately, that number is likely just the tip of the iceberg for overall

■ See SCAM, page A7

OPINION

California Matters

Remembering when we saved the world

If there ever was a moment for citizens of the United States of America to contemplate and appreciate how their nation has a ected humankind’s evolution, it is now on its 250th birthday.

Yes, the U.S. is now a icted with political polarization and cultural angst over an array of specific issues, but it’s been there before and we Americans have somehow survived — even after an extremely bloody civil war.

We continue to be the globe’s most powerful economic and cultural influencer thanks largely to our extraordinarily diverse population, born of our historical willingness to absorb immigrants and refugees.

I, for instance, can trace one thread of my lineage back to a man named George Glenn, one of the hundreds of thousands of Scots Irish who migrated from Ulster during the 18th century and settled in Appalachia. How Glenn’s family evolved from poverty and suppression in Ulster to success in America typifies how the future nation gained enough population and economic strength to break away from Great Britain and declare its independence on July 4, 1776.

I’m proud of that, and all descendants of immigrants should be, whether they came before 1776 or last week. But we should be ashamed that immigration has become a political football, exploited by politicians of both parties.

All of that said, there is one event that encapsulates USA’s unique place in humankind’s history: World War II, when we saved the world during one of its darkest periods.

There are multiple reasons why the U.S. and its allies prevailed in 1945, but underlying every aspect is that our nation embraced a moral imperative to rid humankind of those who sought to dominate or enslave everyone else.

I am a WWII bu who is repeatedly reminded of just how close the Axis powers or Germany, Japan and Italy came to potentially ending civilization through military conquest. At the time, Americans may have been sympathetic to the plights of nations and territories the Axis had conquered but — seemingly secure behind wide oceanic barriers — were reluctant to get militarily involved.

That changed when the Japanese Imperial Navy attacked our Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor on Dec, 7, 1941. We declared war on Japan, Germany declared war on us and the die was cast for the most massive and destructive conflict humankind had ever experienced.

■ See WALTERS, page A5

Letters to the Editor

They call her Khadija

EDITOR:

Three years ago, around the time of the current trouble between Hamas and Israel, there appeared in a local store a clerk wearing the hijab. I had seen her taking public transportation to go to work and was concerned. That was before I knew the concern that business’ employees have for each other.

You could say Khadija had won their hearts, and that they didn’t have far to go.

So I thought I should say something to her. First I tried to imagine not hearing my native language for long periods of time and couldn’t imagine it. Khadija is from Morocco. One can only hope the phone connection is good.

is a master baker

see her creations at the farmers market weekly.

American husband and I think

is her

law are there helping her. The soccer team from Morocco had some unexpected fans here. Even the a fast food restaurant across from Khadija’s employer had decals of the team on a window facing the store.

Will you tell Americans which lie is the real lie, ‘Dr.’ Biden?

Recently in the news, Dr. Jill Biden shared she was afraid that her husband Joe Biden had a stroke during the June 27, 2024 presidential debate between then President Biden and Republican nominee and now President Donald Trump. Immediately after the debate, Jill said, looking at her husband in the eye while on national TV, “Joe, you did such a great job, you answered every question; you knew all the facts.” Then she turned to the partisan crowd and said, “What did Trump do? He lied.” Here we are two years later and who is the liar? It’s Jill Biden, the Jill Biden who insisted she be addressed as “Dr. Jill Biden” because she somehow after about five years of online courses and a “dissertation” that resembled a “Capstone project masquerading as a dissertation” she received an Ed.D. An Ed.D. is not the same as a Ph.D. in philosophy or chemistry or some

other field of higher intellect; an Ed.D. is a somewhat sophisticated summation of teaching methods and experiences. I have a J.D. which is three years of rigorous course work and testing after obtaining a bachelor’s degree and I don’t call myself “Dr.,” and none of the other graduates of my law school class do either.

The AP style book, the standard for reporters (I have a copy), states that Dr. should only be used for four professional categories: medicine, dentistry, optometry and veterinary. Does Jill Biden want people to believe that she is a medical doctor?

That’s lie No. 1.

Lie No. 2 depends on whether Jill Biden was lying after her husband’s debate performance or she is lying now when she said she feared Joe had a stroke during the debate.

The debate performance was about as expected by all who followed Joe Biden, honestly. He hadn’t been “all there” since his election in 2020. And

Someday we will learn who was really running our country during the Biden non-presidency. I have some ideas, including Jill, but it will come out.

it was downhill from January 2021. As his presidency aged so did Biden. He was more tumbling, mumbling and bumbling as his term went on. He physically tripped often, many times he didn’t know where he was or what he was supposed to do, and it’s all documented on video.

Joe Biden should have never been President. It will go down as one of the worst presidencies in America’s history with rampant inflation, no southern border, inviting and causing rampant illegal immigration, significantly adding to the national debt with no end in sight, a poor economy, more taxes and job killing regulations, the national average gas price reaching a peak of $5.02 (which would be over $6.25 corrected for inflation), a weakened military and generally poor government and bureaucratic performance because of “woke” politics.

Under President Trump, the federal government has 300,000

less employees (that’s over a 15% reduction) and yet productivity is up, not down. The economy is making gains, and will boom further now that the Iran conflict is over, gas prices will be back to below $3/ gallon in a few weeks (though not likely in California), our military has demonstrated a proficiency that is far and away No. 1 in the world, and a 100 million Americans with 401Ks are getting rich as the stock market reaches new highs.

Oh, and the President Trump appointed Secretary of State Marco Rubio is perhaps the most capable secretary of state in our history.

Someday we will learn who was really running our country during the Biden non-presidency. I have some ideas, including Jill, but it will come out.

I want to comment on a prior column where I had the idea of an oil

There are multiple reasons why the U.S. and its allies prevailed in 1945, but underlying every aspect is that our nation embraced a moral imperative to rid humankind of those who sought to dominate or enslave everyone else. The U.S. became, in the words of President Franklin Roosevelt, the “arsenal of democracy,” producing copious numbers of airplanes, warships and merchant ships to transport them to the battlefront.

We literally kept Great Britain, the nation from which we sprang in 1776, from starving. We supplied the troops and the weaponry to prevent Nazi Germany from forcing the British to

capitulate, and later to drive the Germans out of France, Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria, Italy and North Africa.

Simultaneously, we almost single-handedly confronted the Empire of Japan, which had conquered much of Southeast Asia and was threatening Australia and India.

It was costly not only in money but in lives.

More than 400,000 American soldiers, sailors and airmen were killed and more than 600,000 were wounded. But it needed to be done and we did it.

The war was transformative in many respects. For example, it forced European nations to give up

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

and

their colonial empires. It allowed the Soviet Union, our wartime ally, to build its own ring of dominated states. With a reformed Western Europe, we held the Soviets in check.

The war hugely impacted California, converting its economy into industrial production and later into technology, igniting a population boom that lasted for 80 years.

We should never forget that the U.S. saved the world when it needed saving. It was our finest hour.

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

Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway

Sacramento’s Austin Wood led all 30-laps in the feature to secure his second career Placerville Speedway victory during the Freedom Fireworks spectacular on Saturday night.

Fellow winners on 4th of July included Ray Trimble with the Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models and Wayne Trimble with the Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks.

The Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged Sprint Car finale saw Austin Wood and Suisun City’s Chance Grasty occupy the front row. At the waving of the Ed Entz green flag, it was Wood jumping into the lead.

Pure Stock finale but had to withstand relentless pressure in the early stages from Kevin Jinkerson.

The 16-year-old would sit out front for the duration of the main event, as cautions kept leaders out of tra c for much of the contest. When tra c came into play, however, Wood carved his way through it and pulled away, eventually grabbing the checkered flag.

Andy Forsberg moved into second past Grasty just before the halfway point and got close to the leader on a couple of occasions but had to settle for a runner-up finish at the conclusion. Grasty, 12th starter Jake

Morgan and Cole Croft rounded out the top five. Completing the top 10 were Seth Standley, point leader and fast qualifier Justyn Cox, 15th starter Shane Hopkins, Nick Parker and 19th starter Dennis Scherer.

The Kings Meats Ltd. Late Model main event was all about Ray Trimble for much of the 25-lapper. Tyler Lightfoot, however, did close in as the race wound down and nearly stole it from the leader over the final couple of circuits.

Trimble crossed the stripe in first though for his 29th career Ltd. Late Model win at Placerville Speedway, which puts him five away from tying Ryan McDaniel for the most all-time. Lightfoot and Rod Oliver completed the podium.

Wayne Trimble ended up leading all 25-laps in the Red Hawk Casino

Trimble fended o every challenge thrown his way and grabbed the win ahead of Jinkerson and point leader Nick Baldwin.

Placerville Speedway returns to action with Anrak Night at the Races this coming Saturday, July 11.

Freedom Fireworks Results

Thompson’s Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Cars: 1. 2A-Austin Wood[1]; 2. 92-Andy Forsberg[3]; 3. X1-Chance Grasty[2]; 4. 45-Jake Morgan[12]; 5. 29-Cole Croft[8]; 6. 7-Seth Standley[5]; 7. 42X-Justyn Cox[6]; 8. 21-Shane Hopkins[15]; 9. 15AZ-Nick Parker[14]; 10. 7W-Dennis Scherer[19];

11. 15-Michael Sellers[16]; 12. 5-Kenny Wanderstadt[13]; 13. 9-Adrianna DeMartini[20]; 14. 9L-Luke Hayes[11]; 15. 55D-Dawson Hammes[9]; 16. 94-Greg Decaires V[17]; 17. 56C-Carson Hammes[18]; 18. 12J-John Clark[4]; 19. 26-Corbin Rueschenberg[7]; 20. 93-Landon Henry[10] Kings Meats Ltd. Late Models: 1. 37-Ray Trimble[1]; 2. 23-Tyler Lightfoot[4]; 3. 57-Rod Oliver[2]; 4. 11-Adam Starkey[5]; 5. 54-Matt Davis[3] Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stocks: 1. 86-Wayne Trimble[1]; 2. 30-Kevin Jinkerson[2]; 3. 17-Nick Baldwin[3]; 4. 23-Tyler Lightfoot[4]; 5. 87-Jason Poppert[5]; 6. 12J-Jason Ramos[8]; 7. 43-Kenny Bernstein[7]; 8. 54-Anthony Vigna[6]

Sammy Youmans of Small Craft Creative, Apron Strings Pet Sitting owner Kimberly Tank and Brendan Drake, a financial advisor with Van Hulzen Financial Advisors.

Small networking group BOOSTS local businesses

Shelly Thorene Staff writer

If you were to spot the members of BOOST Networking Group at their monthly restaurant meeting, you’d probably assume it was a bunch of friends getting together. But this group means business.

BOOST Networking Group founder Cherie Maitland, 72, of River Pines said she loves the idea of mutual referrals. She created the networking group BOOST, which stands for Building Our Ongoing Success Together, in 2025 to connect with other business owners on a more intimate level. The group is now actively seeking new members from area small businesses.

In the 1990s, Maitland started two businesses in the Walnut Creek area: The Inner Spark: Transformational Coaching (for women) and Our Furry Friends, which offers small group dog training classes and private lessons. Maitland said she tried out memberships in bigger groups but “felt lost.”

“In the early years, coming up with $300-$400 for a membership was difficult,” she added.

BOOST Networking Group member and franchise owner of the UPS Store Meredith Escabar said she liked the idea when approached and gladly joined Maitland’s group.

“Bringing people together to connect is really important in a small town,” Escabar explained, adding she enjoys getting together with other business owners and the one-on-one time where each member explains their business. Belonging to a small networking

scams, as many go unreported. Small- and medium-sized businesses are also a target, and scammers focus their efforts during busy business hours, preying on business owners’ sense of urgency to keep the doors open and the lights on. In 2026, in less than half a year, PG&E has received nearly 656 reports of scam attempts targeting business customers. That’s on pace to easily surpass 2025, which saw 846 reports of scammers targeting businesses.

Signs of a potential scam

• Threat to disconnect: Scammers may aggressively demand immediate payment for an alleged past due bill.

Asking to see your bill: If someone comes to your home and asks to see your bill, they are not with PG&E.

• Request for immediate payment via prepaid debit card or money transfer service: Scammers may instruct the customer to purchase a prepaid debit card then call them back supposedly to make a bill payment, or they may ask for payment via a money transfer service like Zelle.

• Refund or rebate offers: Scammers may say that your utility company overbilled you and owes you a refund, or that you are entitled to a rebate, and then ask you for your banking information.

How customers can protect themselves

Customers should never purchase a prepaid card to avoid service disconnection or shutoff. PG&E does not specify how customers should make a bill payment and offers a variety of ways to pay a bill, including accepting payments online, by phone, automatic bank draft, mail or in person.

If a scammer threatens immediate disconnection or shutoff of service without prior notification, customers should hang up the phone, delete the email, or shut the door. Customers with delinquent accounts receive an

group allows a person to build trust in other business owners because “you get a sense of who they are,” Escabar noted.

Kimberly Tank, owner of Apron Strings Pet Sitting and BOOST member, said she loves meeting new people through the group. Originally from the Walnut Creek area, she has made El Dorado County her home for the last 10 years while operating a business in Concord. As an El Dorado County resident, she added tending livestock to her list of services.

Coldwell Banker Realtor David Hall said he met Maitland through her dog training business. His parents brought a dog to her 10 years ago and he followed suit. Hall shared he wasn’t comfortable joining a large networking group and decided BOOST was a better fit.

Brendan Drake, BOOST member and financial advisor with Van Hulzen Financial Advisors, said trust was important to his clients and with members in the networking group.

“They get to know you more as a person,” he explained. “We’re in business to help people. Goodwill supersedes making money.”

Drake has an office in Jackson and participates in other local chambers of commerce.

BOOST member and business owner Sammy Youmans of Small Craft Creative makes a living helping others with marketing strategy and graphic design for digital and print platforms. Youmans has worked in design for more than 10 years but has only been in business for herself for about a year. She works with a lot of small businesses n See BOOST, page A8

advance disconnection notification, typically by mail and included with their regular monthly bill.

If someone comes to your door claiming to be with PG&E, customers should know that PG&E personnel carry identification and are always prepared to show it upon request. If a customer still has doubts, they can call 800-743-5000 to confirm whether an individual is there on official company business. And remember, if someone asks to see your bill, they are not with PG&E and you should close the door.

As a reminder, PG&E will never send a single notification to a customer within one hour of a service interruption, and we will never ask customers to make payments with a pre-paid debit card, gift card, any form of cryptocurrency, or third-party digital payment mobile applications like Zelle or Venmo.

Signing up for an online account at PGE.com is another safeguard. Not only can customers log in to check their balance and payment history, they can sign up for recurring payments, paperless billing and helpful alerts.

Impersonating trusted phone numbers

Scammers are now able to create authentic-looking 800 numbers which appear on your phone display. The numbers don’t lead back to PG&E if called back, however, so if you have doubts, hang up and call PG&E at 1-833-500-SCAM. If customers ever feel that they are in physical danger, they should call 911.

Customers who suspect that they have been victims of fraud, or who feel threatened during contact with one of these scammers, should contact local law enforcement. The Federal Trade Commission’s website is also a good source of information about how to protect personal information. For more information about scams visit pge.com/scams or consumer.ftc.gov.

COMICS

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). As Venus packs her bags for the next sign, express your love through acceptance. Give people room to be themselves. Few gifts are more liberating than feeling welcomed without needing to change or perform.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Venus closes out her Leo chapter with an invitation to express your love through reliability. Show up when you said you would. Follow through on a promise. Consistency may not seem romantic, but it creates lasting trust.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Before Venus changes signs, express your love through adventure. Suggest an outing, explore a new place or try something unfamiliar together. Shared experiences have a way of becoming treasured memories.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). With Venus preparing to leave Leo, express your love through trust. Share something meaningful, listen without judgment or keep a confidence. Emotional intimacy grows when people feel safe revealing themselves.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Venus spends her final hours in your sign, inviting you to express your love through beauty. Share flowers, music, art or a lovely experience. Aesthetic pleasures become a bridge, bringing people together through delight and enjoyment.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Before Venus exits Leo and moves into your sign, express your love through hospitality. Open your door, make room at the table or help someone feel welcome. Few things are more healing than a sense of belonging.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). The curtain call from Venus as she leaves Leo is your chance to express your love through appreciation. Let people know what you admire about them. Recognition is a powerful form of affection, and one that lingers long after the moment passes.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). As Venus takes her final bow in Leo, express your love through conversation. Ask questions, tell stories and stay curious. People feel cherished when someone takes a genuine interest in their thoughts and experiences.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov.

Deer hunting opportunities come to Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve

Dustin Wallis & Peter Tira

CDFW

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is now accepting applications for deer hunting opportunities at the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve in Sacramento County for the 2026 A Zone and D-5 Zone archery and general seasons.

CDFW initiated a limited deer hunting program within the ecological reserve in

2021. The program proved safe and popular with hunters and was expanded in 2022, doubling the number of access permits o ered to eight. In 2026, permits again will be issued for eight separate one-week hunting periods — four permits for the A Zone and four for the D-5 Zone seasons that fall within the reserve’s boundaries. Each permit will accommodate up to two hunters. Only archery equipment may

be used during the A Zone archery season and D-5 Zone archery season. Only archery equipment or shotguns with nonlead slugs may be used during the general season hunt dates. Rifles, pistols or muzzleloaders will not be allowed due to safety concerns. Harvest is limited to one legal buck per hunter per access period.

The A Zone hunts take place in July through September within the reserve’s Arno Unit, located west of Highway 99. The D-5 Zone hunts are o ered in midAugust through early November within the reserve’s Dillard Unit, east of Highway 99.

Hunters can download the applications online at the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve web page. Hunters can also request an access permit application by calling CDFW’s Rancho Cordova o ce at (916) 358-2900 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays.

Applications may be submitted via e-mail to R2CRPhunts@wildlife. ca.gov or mailed to CDFW’s Rancho Cordova o ce at 1701 Nimbus Road, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670.

For the A Zone, Arno Unit general hunt applications must be received by 2 p.m. on July 13. For the D-5 Zone Dillard archery and general hunts, applications must be received by 2 p.m. on Aug 3. Permits will be awarded by a computerized, random drawing. Successful applicants will be notified

and said owning a small business requires “a lot of skill sets.”

“I love teaching people how to do their own marketing,” she added. The “Small Craft” in the business name refers to her drone. Youmans is a licensed drone pilot. Maitland said her goal is to

by e-mail or phone call/ text message within two working days of the drawing, and will receive additional information, including maps and special instructions, prior to the hunt. Results will not be given over the phone.

Up to two people may apply for the hunt as one party by including all required information on the application form. Junior hunting license holders who are 12 years of age or older may also apply if accompanied by an adult hunter.

Applicants may apply for one access permit on one

keep the networking group small enough to allow people to get to know each other but big enough to get a lot of referrals or “around 20 people.” Maitland conducts an informal vetting of a new prospect over the phone and a prospective member can attend a luncheon to

For general aviation pilots: Keep a 15-Mile Buffer Wildfire smoke indicates congested, restricted airspace. Entering these zones risks a catastrophic collision with firefighting aircraft operating under intense conditions. Give active fires a wide 15-mile buffer and remain highly alert for heavy air traffic flying to and from fire zones.

Real-world consequences

• Direct threat to aircrews: Entering restricted airspace with a

area only. An individual’s name may appear in the drawing only once. Any individual’s name who appears on more than one application will cause all applications with that individual’s name present to be disqualified.

Hunters selected for an access permit for the Arno Unit (A Zone) or Dillard Unit (D-5 Zone) must possess the necessary A Zone, D3-5 Zones or Archery Only deer tag for the 2026 season. All hunters selected for a permit must also possess a 202627 California hunting license.

check out the group. The group meets once a month on a Monday at noon for lunch at a local eatery to network and socialize. For information on becoming a member check out the BOOST Networking Facebook page.

private plane or flying a drone near a wildfire creates an immediate risk of a deadly mid-air collision.

• Ground crews and communities left unprotected: The moment an unauthorized aircraft or drone is spotted over a fire zone, aerial firefighting operations are grounded. This leaves ground crews and threatened neighborhoods without air support while fires spread.

• Criminal penalties: Interfering with emergency operations is illegal. Violators face equipment confiscation, steep fines and jail time.

A Warm Welcome Awaits You

Whether it’s the friendly neighbor who greets you each morning, a warm meal waiting for you, or a gathering that rekindles your spark, you’ll know from the very first day that at Eskaton Village Placerville, your story is far from over.

The private cottages at Eskaton Village Placerville are our most highly sought after residences. These cottages for independent residents offer a maintenance-free lifestyle with all the convenience of a professional team right outside your window.

& Discover: Culinary Spotlight Event Thursday, July 9 at 12 p.m.

about the various living options within Eskaton Village Placerville, including private cottages, assisted living and memory care options. Community Spotlight Event Thursday, August 13 from 2-4 p.m.

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Stellar Students

Congratulations to Giordano Gambetta and Lily Maguire of El Dorado Hills who were recently named to the Dean’s List at Georgia Southern University.

July 8

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

Vitalant will hold a Blood Drive at the Elks Lodge No. 1712, 3821 Quest Court, Shingle Springs from 1:30-3:45 p.m. To make an appointment use the code SMFM551 and call (877) 2584825 or visit donors.vitalant. org.

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.

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents ‘80s Throwback Summer Movie Series with “Dirty Dancing” at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

July 9

Senior Helpers Cameron Park will host Dementia Prevention: Nutrition and Movement from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Federated Church, 1031 Thompson Way, Placerville. For questions contact Jillien Erdman at jerdman@seniorhelpers.com.

Vitalant will hold a Blood Drive at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District Park, 1021 Harvard Way, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. To make an appointment use the code SMFM019 and call (877) 258-4825 or visit donors.vitalant.org.

Doug Not Josh & Red Dirt Sound System with special guest Dirté Elvis will perform, 7-10 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 Live on the Boulevard with Viva Santana 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 10

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.

The Rescue Community Center will host Friday Night Out with live music, food and drink from 5-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter. com.

The Cameron Park Community Services District

Markham students shine bright

s Edwin Markham

AMiddle School students headed into summer break, they carried with them the memory of standing on a professional baseball field, hearing thousands of fans respond to their performance and knowing that months of hard work had paid o .

Markham students, in May, gave America's 250th anniversary local meaning when they performed the National Anthem before a Sacramento River Cats game at Sutter Health Park, showcasing preparation, patriotism and community pride.

Nearly 280 students, parents and supporters made the trip to Sacramento, but the spotlight belonged to 70 young musicians whose polished performance captivated the crowd. By the end of the evening, the students had not only delivered a memorable ceremonial performance but also earned an invitation to return for future River Cats and Athletics games.

The achievement reflected months of disciplined work. Students auditioned at the beginning of the school year to earn their places, then studied the history and cultural significance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" while mastering the precision required for a public ceremonial performance.

When they took the field in the formation of an American flag, they delivered a flawless rendition marked by strong tone, balance and composure before thousands of fans, educators, athletes and community members.

Band director Evan Berry said the performance represented far more than a musical accomplishment.

"It wasn't just about performing — it was about belonging to something larger than ourselves," he said. "Our community showed up. Our leadership showed up. And our students delivered pure joy through music."

The opportunity came through the Triple-A School Program, an award-winning initiative that reaches more than 10,000 students each year while promoting attitude, attendance, academics and character. At the ballpark, those values were on full display as Placerville Unified School District board members, Superintendent Eric Bonicksen, families and sta gathered to support the students. Markham Principal Diane Schmidt added to the celebration by throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.

"The kindness and graciousness of the River Cats crew, the ball players and even Dinger created an unforgettable experience for

our students," Schmidt said. "This was about showcasing what our students are capable of when we invest in them."

Berry said the day demonstrated what can happen when educators, families and students work together. Parents coordinated transportation and filled the stands, educators devoted extra hours to rehearsals and preparation, and district leaders backed the program. Together, they created an opportunity for students to test themselves on a professional stage and succeed.

The celebration extended beyond the anthem itself. Markham Middle School band students and members of the California Junior Scholarship Federation participated in the Triple-A School Day activities, where River Cats players and coaches hosted interactive question-and-answer sessions. Berry said the event reflected the program's focus on developing students through academics, attendance, attitude and character while creating meaningful experiences beyond the classroom.

According to Berry, the performance was the culmination of months of preparation and was delivered with exceptional poise, precision and artistry before thousands of spectators. Their immediate invitation to return for future games recognized not only their musical excellence but also Markham's commitment to "excellence in

education while having fun doing it."

Berry also credited Schmidt for spearheading the event and with eighth grade student leader Tyler Patterson for helping bring the vision to life, saying their leadership transformed months of preparation into a moment of pride and joy for the entire school community. He thanked the Sutter Health Park sta , River Cats players, coaches and mascot Dinger for creating an unforgettable experience that celebrated dedication, musicianship and community. "In

inspiring stories of young people achieving excellence through hard work and discipline, this is a celebration of El Dorado County's commitment to arts education and student achievement that deserves recognition."

For the Markham band program, the evening capped what Berry described as an exceptional year, demonstrating the power of hard work, discipline and the joy of learning together. For the students who stood shoulder to shoulder on the field, it also created a memory that will last long after the final note faded.

ARC’s Concerts for a Cause return to Wakamatsu

The American River Conservancy invites the community to celebrate summer outdoors at historical Wakamatsu Farm during the fourth season of Concerts for a Cause, an annual live music series that brings together live music, local food and conservation.

This year's series

Saturday, July 11 — Little Hurricane

Performing its signature gritty blues-rock sound.

Saturday, Aug. 15 — Red Dirt Ruckus

Returning with its high-energy "Funky Foothill Jamgrass" performance.

Each concert will be held from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Wakamatsu Farm, 941 Cold Springs Road, Placerville. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy live music in an outdoor setting along with local food and beverages while connecting with friends and supporting environmental conservation in El Dorado and surrounding counties.

"Concerts for a Cause is one of our favorite ways to bring people together," said Melissa Lobach, development director for the American River Conservancy. "Whether you're dancing right in

front of the stage, kicking back on the lawn or simply enjoying a warm summer night with family and friends, every ticket purchased helps protect the land we love."

Proceeds from the concert series benefit ARC's Resilience Reserve, a fund that provides critical resources for emergency stewardship needs, habitat restoration and disaster recovery across the conservancy's protected lands. The fund allows ARC to respond quickly to challenges such as wildfire damage, severe storms, flooding and other

threats affecting the American and Cosumnes river watersheds.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs and reusable cups. Food, beer and wine will be available for purchase. Outside food and alcohol are not permitted, and pets are not allowed. Children 12 and younger are admitted free with a paying adult. Tickets are $20 to $25. Reduced-price tickets may be purchased in advance at bit.ly/ARCc4c2026. Learn more about the American River Conservancy's 37-year conservation effort at ARConservancy.org.

Call for artists now open

For exhibition, Working Landscapes, Working People

News release

Arts and Culture El Dorado, in partnership with Our EGG, has announced the next exhibition in its 2026 Switchboard Gallery exhibition series: Working Landscape, Working People. The exhibition explores the profound intersections of land, labor and life in El Dorado County and the Sierra Nevada foothills.

At the heart of the collaboration is a curated exhibition featuring all forms of art that capture the essence of working lands — including agriculture, timber, natural landscapes and rural heritage — and the people whose labor sustains them.

Organizers are seeking artwork that reflects the region’s unique environment, from its natural landscapes and vital watersheds to the realities of agriculture, rural life and its diverse trades and crafts, viewing the land not as a backdrop but as an

active participant in lived experience. Whether tracing the deep roots of the region’s agricultural and timber heritage, highlighting the daily grit of rural jobs or examining the delicate balance among community culture, economic survival and the land itself, the exhibition welcomes diverse voices and creative expressions that literally and figuratively speak to the meaning of “work” and its inseparable connection to the land the community calls home.

All art forms and media are encouraged, including visual arts and dynamic media, tactile and mixed media, gear craft as functional art, narrative and sensory installations, literary and performance elements and culinary experiences featuring ingredients produced or foraged from working lands.

Artists should submit artwork by July 31 to loren@ artsandcultureeldorado.org.

Farm-to-Fork tickets available

News release

The bounty of the season will be showcased at the Apple Hill Growers Association’s Farmto-Fork Dinner on Saturday, July 25. Tickets are now available for an unforgettable evening on the farm featuring a wine- and food-paired meal highlighting produce and wines from Apple Hill grower farms.

The evening begins with a cocktail hour featuring grower hard cider, wine and passed appetizers, followed by a four-course seated dinner overlooking the vineyards at Delfino Farms. The multi-course meal will be prepared by Placerville chef John Sanders of Old Town Grill using ingredients from local farms. Each course will be paired with Apple Hill wines from wineries including Lava Cap Winery, Madroña Vineyards and Boeger Winery. Placerville musician Patrick Walsh will provide live music throughout the evening.

The Apple Hill Growers Association is grateful for the support of its community partners. Raley’s is the dinner’s premier sponsor and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Raley’s Food for Families program.

The event begins at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at Delfino Farms, 3205 North Canyon Road in Camino. For tickets and more information visit tinyurl.com/3n2nrtf2.

A

gardener’s

dream: Lady Beetles

There are about 200 species of lady beetles in California. It is important to remember that while all lady beetle species have a similar shape, their colors and patterns may di er. Some have spots, others don’t, some are red and some are grayish. Lady beetles and their o spring, called larvae, feast on aphids, mites and other insect pests. More information can be found at tinyurl.com/ w j9vcj.

Because lady beetle species vary so widely, their diets di er, too. For example, the ashy grey lady beetle, Olla v-nigrum, and the 20-spotted lady beetle, Psyllobora vigintimaculata, do not eat aphids or mites. Instead, they are found on plants with powdery mildew, where they feed on mycelia, spores and spore-producing structures. Another species, the twicestabbed lady beetle, Chilocorus orbus, is

black with two red spots. It eats mealybugs and aphids but prefers soft-bodied scales. The mealybug destroyer lady beetle, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri, feeds on mealybugs and other soft-bodied insects that produce waxy egg sacs. I don’t know about you, but when I see a scary-looking bug, I immediately want to get rid of it! Then my Master Gardener training kicks in to determine if it is an insect pest or a beneficial predator of those darn pests. Learning the stages of an insect’s life prevents unintended harm. The lady beetle’s life

IN THE NIGHT SKY

The moon’s influence

In addition to its physical and geographical e ects on the Earth, the Moon also carries a large cultural significance across many di erent cultures. Going back to ancient spiritual traditions, it serves as a symbol of harmony, connection, and the passage of time.

Spiritual significance

A common celebration in China is the Mooncake Festival, celebrated this year on Sept. 25. At or around this time, the moon is at its brightest and roundest of the year. The full moon represents harmony due to its round and complete circle, a concept closely tied to family reunions. Families gather at this time to look at the sky, light lanterns, and share traditional mooncake pastries that can be filled with a variety of traditional pastes and fillings. The festival is also deeply rooted in the story of Chang’e, the goddess of the moon, who is said to live on its surface.

The Moon also holds importance in Hindu traditions. Many major festivals are timed based on the lunar calendar. For instance, Holi is celebrated on the day of the full moon, or “purnima,” in the Hindu lunar month of Phalgun, marking the transition from winter to spring. Similarly, the festival of Raksha Bandhan, which celebrates the bonds between siblings, is celebrated on the full moon of Shravana.

Timekeeping

Beyond individual celebrations, the Moon has also been used for timekeeping for thousands of years. Because of its predictability and consistency, it provides a way to track the passage of time without much technology. In traditional Islamic culture, the year is governed by a lunar system known as the Hijri calendar. Each month begins when another faint crescent is

cycle starts with an egg. A lady beetle’s eggs are football-shaped, yellow or white, and laid on end either singularly or in rows on the leaves of a pest-infested plant. When the eggs hatch, the lady beetle goes through several larval stages. A lady beetle larva is alligator-shaped with prominent legs. Depending on the species, the color of the larvae di ers. In the next stage, it pupates and eventually becomes a beautiful and beneficial lady beetle. The lady beetle eats thousands of insect pests throughout its growth stages. The most common lady beetle in California is the convergent lady beetle, Hippodamia convergens. Its larvae are black with some reddish-orange coloring on the sides. Once the larva pupates, it begins to look more like a ladybug until it matures to adulthood.

Creating a garden with lady beetles involves providing food for them and their o spring. If

visible. Because a lunar year is slightly shorter than a solar year, periods based on the lunar year like Ramadan happen at di erent periods in the year on a 33-year cycle. Similarly, many Native American communities use the lunar calendar, consisting of 13 cycles. Each full moon is given a descriptive name that corresponds to practical changes in important ecosystems. For example, the full moon in June is known as the “Strawberry Moon” in tribes like the Algonquian, Dakota, and Lakota, as wild strawberries are ready to harvest at this point.

Photography

The Moon is very easily capturable with a basic DSLR camera and a tripod. Important considerations are the camera settingsdepending on the time of day and phase of the moon, the camera may require di erent settings for its aperture, the size of the “eye” that lets light in; the exposure time, which is how long light is allowed to enter the camera; and the ISO, the camera’s sensitivity to light. Since the moon is often very bright, it is advised to lower the camera’s ISO as well as shutter speed. However, there is no perfect formula for each case. A good rule of thumb is to adjust the shutter speed and ISO inversely — increasing the sensitivity to light warrants decreasing the amount of time that the light is allowed to enter into the camera. A starting point like an ISO of 200 and shutter

food is available, lady beetles will come. Do not use broad-spectrum or systemic insecticides because they will kill lady beetles and other beneficial insects along with the insect pests. If there is no food for the beneficial predators, they will find another garden.

Attracting lady beetles and other beneficial predators is easy:

• Plant insectary plants to attract and provide food and shelter for adult beneficial insects throughout the year. Learn more about insectary plants at tinyurl.com/2ev26ufd.

• Reduce dustiness by rinsing o smaller plants. Too much dust can inhibit the activities of beneficial insects.

• Finally, control ants in your garden because they will protect aphids and other insects that produce honeydew. Learn more about ant management at tinyurl. com/3ebxwk88.

speed of 1/200 often works well. However, since even the slightest vibration gets magnified through a zoomed in lens, it is best to use some kind of remote trigger to activate the camera shutter.

Harmehel Singh is a junior at Pacific Crest Academy who has a passion for stargazing. Singh’s interests have grown from reading and planetariums to developing an enthusiasm for writing about related topics. Singh plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Rascal Flatts releases official theme song of American Century Championship

OUTH LAKE TAHOE — Country music

icons Rascal Flatts will bring a new soundtrack to Lake Tahoe this summer with the release of “Tahoe Nights,” a golf-inspired reimagining of their fan-favorite hit “Summer Nights,” as the official theme song of the American Century Championship.

The new track captures the atmosphere of the American Century Championship: elite golf, celebrity camaraderie and a one-of-a-kind summer celebration on the shores of Lake Tahoe. The 37th edition of the tournament will be contested July

will host Cannonball Cinemas showing “Elio,” 7-10 p.m. at the Cameron Park CSD Pool, 2502 Country Club Drive. For more information visit cameronpark. org.

Squid Saves the Planet + Tororo! + Coco Vaughn + Dwight Anthony + Stony Bones with special guest

Dirté Elvis will perform, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information

visit clubgreenroom.com.

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

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.

8-12 at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course in Stateline, Nevada.

Rascal Flatts members Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney will also return to the American Century Championship field. One or both have competed in the tournament for the past 16 years. The pair have helped make the tournament’s annual week at Lake Tahoe a memorable convergence of music, sports and philanthropy.

“‘Tahoe Nights’ reflects what makes this event unlike anything else in sports,” said Gary Quinn, vice president, partnerships and general manager, owned properties at NBC Sports. “Jay DeMarcus

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents The Golden Bear Film Festival at 8:30 p.m., 10:30 a.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. on Sunday. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Now

Tickets are now available for Apple Hill Growers’ Farm to Fork Dinner to take place July 25, 6 p.m. at Delfino 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 which takes place on Aug. 15, 4-8 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards, 2569 Larsen Drive in Camino. For tickets and more information visit imagesofhopeeldorado.com.

Tickets are available for Ag in the Classroom’s 20 Mile Taste which takes place Aug. 29 from 4-7 p.m. at Rainbow Orchards, 2569

and Joe Don Rooney have been part of the American Century Championship family for years.” Originally released in 2009, “Summer Nights” became one of Rascal Flatts’ signature feel-good anthems. Written by Gary LeVox, Brett James and busbee, and produced by Rascal Flatts and Dann Huff, its familiar summer feel made it a fitting choice for the tournament’s new theme.

Rascal Flatts will perform at the Lake Tahoe Amphitheatre at Caesars Republic on Friday, July 10 at 8 p.m. and is part of the 2026 Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series. Tickets can be purchased at tinyurl.com/5n7w8knw.

Larsen Drive in Camino. For more information visit agintheclassedc.org.

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 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.

B Street Theatre in Sacramento presents “Working for Crumbs” through July 12. Learn more at bstreettheatre.org.