Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Caring for Kids

RESPECT & HONOR

EDH Fire hosts solemn training

Noel Stack and Shelly Thorene Mountain Democrat

The loss was 20 years ago. But honor guard students treated the training funeral for El Dorado County Fire Capt. Matthew Keck with such precision and care, it felt like yesterday. Keck lost his battle to occupational cancer Jan. 21, 2006. His sister Amanda Keck of Grizzly Flat attended the March 6 training funeral in El Dorado Hills honoring her brother. “It showed huge respect for the type of man he was and I’m glad others got to see that,” she shared. Around 20 law enforcement o cers and emergency medical service personnel underwent the 40-hour basic honor guard training session hosted by the El Dorado Hills Fire Department and led by Goshen, Ind., Police Department Lt. Randy Kantner (ret.) the first week of March. The fiveday program consisted of four days of training accompanied by a 200page student manual and reference guide, and culminated on the fifth day with the full honors training funeral at Vintage Grace.

The training covered the handling of firearms in formation, casket movement, color guard movement, firing

City’s

Andrew Vonderschmitt

Features editor

After more than 75 years of near constant wagon train reenactments, people behind the Highway 50 Wagon Train ponder whether they can continue to retrace the Gold Rush era journey from South Lake Tahoe to Placerville.

From the back of a horse, Steve Downer keeps watch over the moving piece of California history as the annual event has, in recent years, come against some serious economic burdens that threaten the beloved tradition.

SHOOTING UPDATE

Deputies, suspect identified; two remain hospitalized

Noel Stack Editor

El Dorado County sheriff’s deputies Joshua Stillman and Craig Reimche “face an incredibly long and grueling road to recovery,” the Deputy Sheriff’s Association of El Dorado County shared following a March 12 shooting in which suspect

mid-year budget shows promise with caveats

Andrew Vonderschmitt

City staff reported a modest improvement in Placerville’s financial outlook during a mid-year budget update presented to the City Council on March 10, with revenue expected to slightly exceed projections and a previously anticipated deficit reduced.

Interim Finance Director Natalie Tornincasa told the council the city is forecast to bring in about $11.1 million in general fund revenue this fiscal year, about $61,000 above the adopted budget. At the same time, expenditures

are expected to come in about $188,000 below budget.

“We’re forecasting to come in $61,000 over budget in revenue,” Tornincasa said. “And we’re forecasting expenditures to come in under budget.”

Because of transfers and anticipated liability costs, the city is still projecting a deficit in the general fund, but the shortfall is expected to shrink from about $300,000 to roughly $178,000.

The mid-year review evaluates the city’s finances alongside several local economic indicators, including unemployment rates, housing sales and inflation.

Placerville’s unemployment rate increased over the past year, rising from 3.9% in January to 5.5% in December. Tornincasa said the city’s unemployment rate in 2025 averaged 5.5%, slightly higher than the 5% average in El Dorado County and Sacramento.

Housing activity in the greater Placerville area increased, with an average of 18 homes sold per month in 2025 compared with 16 per month in 2024. A total of 212 homes were sold in 2025, up from 193 the previous year. The average home price rose to about

ESSENTIALS

OBITUARIES

David Martin Perez

Jan. 28, 1950 - Jan. 11, 2026

David Martin Perez, 75, passed away on January 11, 2026.

Born in Kansas City, Kansas, he spent his childhood in rural Nebraska until 1967 when his family moved to California.

David proudly served in the United States Army from 1974-1980. He married the love of his life, Mary, in 1980 and is the proud father of 2 sons, Miguel, (Mike) and Ryan. In 1997 they moved to Placerville, CA.

David was passionate about his profession as a Doctor of Chiropractic and worked alongside Dr. Keith Jackson of Jackson Chiropractic from 1997 until he retired in 2012. He believed in a holistic approach to health, his motto, “Salus populi lex suprema est” — “Public health is the supreme law”. He found purpose in supporting youth athletics, wrestling and football in particular. He volunteered at Herbert Green Middle School and Union Mine High School where his son Ryan attended. He was a field doctor and chain crew member for UM from 1999 -2013.

David and Mary found their way back home to Santa Clara, CA in 2022 to be closer to family. David leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Mary and his sons Miguel and Ryan and many family members. David will be laid to rest with military honors.

Funeral services will be held at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery May 15, 2026 at 2:30 PM, 5810 Midway RD, Dixon, CA. There will be a reception following to be held at Bud’s Pub and Grill in Dixon, 100 S. First Street; 707-678-4745.

Richard Nicholas Tone Jr.

Apr. 20, 1942 - Mar. 1, 2026

Richard Nicholas Tone Jr., who filled his life with family and friends, camping and card games, so many dogs and even more stories, many of them true, died on March 1, 2026, in Placerville, California. He was 83. He is survived by his loving wife, Diane; his children, Liz and Joe; five grandchildren, Gabe, Joe, Tony, Jonah and Elliot; five siblings, Penelope, Cindy, Jeffry, Elizabeth and Lottie; and too many cousins, nieces and nephews to count. They knew him as Nick, or Nicky, or once, briefly, Nicky Bobo, for reasons lost to history.

Nick was born in San Francisco in 1942 to Richard and Gene Tone, the fourth of seven children. He spent his childhood racing by bike through Golden Gate Park, fishing coins from the Japanese Tea Garden wishing well, and playing ball, any ball, on whatever team would take him. He attended Santa Clara University, triplemajoring in business, golf and the card game Pedro. A week or so before he died, Nick ticked through a list of old Santa Clara friends, each name eliciting a story about golf or mischief or simply the great men they’d become.

Graduating in 1965, Nick served briefly in the Marine Reserves before settling in the Bay Area. He built an improbable career in insurance, real estate, computers and insurance again, collecting more friends and tall tales along the way.

He also built a family, partnering with Joanne to raise Liz and Joe. When Liz was in 5th grade, he took her to Great America before her class trip, to vanquish her fear of upside-down coasters. When Joe was in 8th, Nick coached his Pony League team, famously convincing a confused teen umpire that Joe’s ground-rule double had in fact cleared the fence. Through it all, he ingrained in his kids a mantra he often lived by himself: “Be nice, do your job, have fun.”

Later in life, Nick moved north, to the Gold Country that had lured his Irish ancestors west generations before. Like many northern Californians, he never hesitated to freshen his coffee and hop in the car for long, winding drives to watch the Masters with his brother in Truckee or watch a grandkid’s ballgame in Santa Cruz. He spent as many weekends as possible at The Mine, his family’s beloved mining claim-turnedcampground, where his remains will soon be spread. In his final days, he liked to joke about saving some ashes for the outhouse.

His last stop was Placerville, where he met and married Diane. Together they built the most peaceful era of Nick’s life, tending to their own dogs and to those of neighbors and clients who also became friends. The dogs were nice, and did their job, and seemed to have fun, so Nick was happiest in their presence. Once he discovered dog emojis, no text thread ended without one.

Though his military career was brief — distinguished, as he tells it, by his ability to befriend officers and bend rules — he was treated like a 5-star general as he suffered through complications from a heart condition. He died peacefully, surrounded once more by his siblings and cousins, his children and friends. He was, he said, “ready for the trip.” If there were coins from the wishing well in his pocket, he didn’t tell. Nick will be remembered at a memorial gathering this spring. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to your local pet adoption organization.

James Blazich

Jan. 13, 1954 - Mar. 8, 2026

James Blazich was born January 13, 1954 to John and Olga Blazich in Yonkers, NY, moving to North Hollywood, then to Mountain View.

James was a star Little League player. At eight, his parents bought him a guitar and lessons. He became proficient and played in bands through high school, playing string base in the California Youth Symphony, once accompanying Jack Benny.

James busked through California with his friend Frank and lived at the commune The Land. One stormy December day, a friend brought him to the home of Laurie and her kids David and Crystalaura. James and Laurie married in June 1974, moving to Troy, Montana where James built a house. He was with joyful, danceable bands, Mighty Simple and Sleeping Giant. He played with a country band in Spokane and traveled through Canada’s Northwest Territories with an Elvis impersonator. The family moved to Oregon, then to Amador County three years later, where James played regularly at The Buckhorn.

James was a Renaissance man, able to fix anything mechanical. He often pulled over to help stranded motorists, sometimes bringing them home for dinner. He loved to cook and took meals to neighbors. He and Laurie shared their home with many friends.

At his death, he was surrounded by family, his dog Charlie, and the love of family and friends near and far.

The family thanks Amador County Fire for their kindness. Share memories at: https://app. bluebutterfly.com/memorial/v2/james-blazich

Everyone is invited to a casual get-together at the River Pines Town Hall at 22900 Canyon Ave in River Pines, CA on Saturday, April 18, 2pm to 5pm.

Kimberly Lynn Crismore (Kimmie)

Jun. 25, 1963 – Feb. 21, 2026

Kimberly Lynn Crismore, affectionately known as “Kimmie,” passed away peacefully at her residence in Somerset, California, on February 21, 2026, at the age of 62.

Born in Los Angeles County on June 25, 1963, Kimmie dedicated much of her life to the service of others. As a nurse for many years, she truly shined, earning the deep respect and love of both her staff and her patients. She was widely regarded as the “greatest nurse,” a title reflected in the compassionate care she provided every day. Beyond her professional life, Kimmie’s heart belonged to her family. She shared 22 beautiful years of marriage with her husband, Burt. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Jennifer Troswick and Jocelyn Accardi, her son, Clayton Beck and step son James Crismore. In 2017, her role as a protector and provider took a special form when she adopted her grandson, Matthew Accardi.

Kimmie’s legacy lives on through her seven grandchildren: Tabitha, Sierra, Brian, Kristiana, Melode, Matthew, and Jules; and her three greatgrandchildren: Amaya, Zaeya, and Augustin. She has now been reunited with her beloved son, Jules Accardi, who preceded her in death in March 2010.

Always in our hearts and forever missed!

A service to celebrate Kimmie’s life and her enduring spirit will be held on:

Date: April 16, 2026

Time: 1:00 pm

Location: Green Valley Church, Placerville, California

Taylor William Nance

Apr. 7, 1949 - Dec. 9, 2025

Taylor William Nance passed away at his home in Hamilton, Montana on December 9, 2025. He was 76. Taylor was born on April 7, 1949 in Auburn, to Darell and Pollye Nance. He grew up in Pilot Hill and was a well known lifetime resident. He graduated from Placer High School in 1967 and attended Sierra College afterward, graduating in 1970. Taylor also enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserves in 1970 and served as a Petty Officer Third Class aboard the USS Henry W. Tucker during the Vietnam War. He and his shipmates earned the Combat Action Ribbon for successfully staving off a North Vietnamese attack on Christmas Eve of 1972. After being honorably discharged in 1973, Taylor returned home to Pilot Hill. He worked as an engineering technician for El Dorado County Department of Transportation for 30 years.

mussels; the services of musselsniffing dogs like Edna are funded with prevention grants; and a quagga mussel-encrusted pipe.

Grants available for mussel infestation prevention programs

Division of Boating and Waterways News release

California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways recently announced the availability of grant funding to help prevent the further spread of quagga and zebra mussels that threaten California’s waterways and cause negative impacts to recreational boating, fishing and the ecosystem.

Funded by the California Mussel Fee Sticker (also known as the Quagga Sticker), the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program expects to award up to $2 million across eligible applicants. Applications must be received by Friday, April 17, by 5 p.m.

Grants are available to entities that own or manage any aspect of water in a reservoir that is open for public recreation and is mussel-free. If a reservoir is already covered by a two-year 2026 grant, that reservoir will not be considered during this application period. Funding is intended to augment local resources aimed at stopping the spread of these harmful invasive mussels. The funds must be used for prevention projects, such as planning, watercraft inspection stations and inspectors, launch monitors, watercraft decontamination units, educational signage and outreach.

DBW will review and score applications in partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. DBW expects to notify applicants by July 2026, with grants starting in October 2026.

Since beginning in 2014, DBW’s QZ Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program has awarded $28.8 million in grants for 123 projects at 71 unique reservoirs. As a result of the collective efforts from all partners, the spread of quagga mussels has been slowed and limited to Southern California with two zebra mussel sightings in San Benito County.

While DBW recognizes prevention work for quagga and zebra mussels also prevents the spread of other invasive mussels, the statutes and regulations governing the QZ Mussel Infestation Grant Program are specific to quagga mussels (Dreissena rostriformis bugensis) and zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) at this time. The ability to grant or deny a complete application is based on whether the applicant is preventing infestation of quagga and zebra mussels.

The statutes and regulations are currently in the process of being updated to include work for all invasive mussels. Therefore, the grant program cannot fund activities that discuss the golden mussel or any

The following was taken from PPD reports:

Feb. 22

3:54 a.m. Burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Schnell School Road. An arrest was made.

4:15 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a clothing store on Broadway.

Feb. 23

12:31 a.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

Feb. 24

8:25 a.m. Battery was reported on Bee Street.

4:27 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive.

Feb. 25

5:53 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a Halloween store on Forni Road.

10:06 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a church on Coloma Street.

12:35 p.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public on Fair Lane.

2:52 p.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

Feb. 26

1:38 a.m. Battery was reported at an apartment complex on Cold Springs Road.

8:29 a.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

12:31 p.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public on Main Street.

2:12 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a restaurant on Broadway.

He is survived by his nieces Kristen and Melanie, as well as many friends throughout El Dorado County and Hamilton. He was preceded in death by his parents Darell and Pollye, and his sister Cheryl. A celebration of life will be held at Lance’s Place in Greenwood on March 15th at 1pm. Please join us for an early St. Patrick’s day feast of corned beef and cabbage, NASCAR, and celebrating Taylor where he loved all of the above. Please RSVP so we can get an idea of how many to expect. Or you can call Lance’s and let them know 530-887-1927

7:55 p.m. Battery was reported at the hospital on Marshall Way.

Feb. 27

6:34 a.m. Someone was reportedly drunk in public on Coloma Court.

12:31 p.m. Battery was reported on Northridge Drive.

2:46 p.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

5:15 p.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

6:46 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a smoke shop on Broadway.

Feb. 28

4:17 a.m. Battery was reported on Spring Street.

4:59 p.m. Officers booked into jail a person suspected of vandalism, damaging jail property and probation violation on Main Street. They were listed in custody.

Shelly Thorene Staff writer

Acandlelight vigil was held at Joe’s Skate Park March 6 for its former gatekeeper, Kelley Rogers who took his own life on March 1. Family members, skaters and more than 100 community members lined the bowl with lit candles, some with skateboards, and listened as family and friends spoke from the heart.

Rogers was a fixture in the skateboarding community as he was instrumental in the re-opening of the park after the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors closed the facility after a series of problems in 2008. Rogers and fellow skateboarder Sinjin Savage began attending skate park meetings and met Carol Martin, who was with the El Dorado Youth Commission.

Until recently, Rogers was the owner of Hangtown Skate Shop at the park, which later moved to Main Street. In 2020, Rogers changed the shop’s name to Mother Lode Board Supply Co. and told the Mountain Democrat at the time, “I want to be more inviting and my business name to reflect that. If it brings negative feelings to any segment of society then I don’t want that.” Kelley’s, son Jonas told the gathering

that his father, in his last days, thought he was alone but said the number of people in attendance at the candlelight vigil proved otherwise. Jonas said his dad had a “hard life but he did a lot of good.” Jonas’ brother Logan read a poem from his father’s journal said, “He took us on one hell of an adventure.” Rogers’ mother Barbara shared, “Kelley was a good person. He did so much for the skating community. He worked with many people to get this park open again. He wasn’t perfect. he battled addiction and overcame it. As a mom, I can’t tell you what happened. I wish I could. When you know

someone is hurting, hug them and don’t let them go. I am proud of my son and he deserves to be honored.”

Former El Dorado County supervisor and current LAFCO Executive Officer Shiva Frentzen told the crowd, “As many of you know, Kelley and I spent 22 years together, raising our voice, and after we went down different paths, there were lots of high and lows between us and a lot in between. We loved the shop and the skating community and he was a huge part of our family. He had strong opinions on a lot of subjects but in the end he cared about everybody. This park was a model and he made it a safe place.”

Placerville Rotarian

Ed Matthews said he was involved early on in the development of the skate park with Joe Stancil, Gordon Vicini, Gael Barsotti and CarterKelly Construction. Matthews said when Rogers got involved, he was “instrumental in getting the park opened again and in organizing the skaters.” He recalled when jars to collect donations were placed in local businesses and raised $10,000.

After mourners finished sharing, Jonas held up a skateboard that was signed by by many present and said to skaters, “I’ve got a hundred bucks for the best trick down the banks.”

Cal Fire News release

SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection recently announced the availability of up to $120 million for forest health projects that address extreme disturbance events including catastrophic wildfires, drought and pest mortality.

Cal Fire is accepting applications for landscapescale forest management and restoration efforts designed to improve ecosystem resilience, reduce wildfire risk and deliver climate benefits such as increased carbon storage and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

“Healthy forests are already delivering real results on the ground — lower wildfire intensity, safer communities, improved wildlife habitat and stronger natural systems that store carbon and withstand climate stress,” said Cal Fire Deputy Director of Natural Resource Management Eric Huff. “By investing in science-based forest management including reforestation, Cal Fire continues to accelerate the pace and scale of work needed to protect California’s landscapes and ensure our forests remain resilient for generations to come.”

The Forest Health Program encourages proposals from tribes; local, state and federal government organizations; nonprofit organizations; and other eligible entities that demonstrate strong ecological outcomes, cross-boundary collaboration, and meaningful community engagement. Since 2017, Cal Fire has awarded more than $750 million in

forest health grants. These projects have assisted in restoring and replanting the state’s forests. Reducing wildfire risk, mitigating climate change, protecting communities, supporting rural jobs and improving California’s water and air — all help ensure healthy forests for the future.

This solicitation includes two parallel funding opportunities totaling $120 million: $55 million from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and $65 million from Proposition 4 (California Climate Bond). Both funding sources will follow the same timeline and application process; applicants seeking consideration under both must submit separate applications because of different requirements in each funding source.

For the first time, the Forest Health Program will use a two-step application process to reduce applicant burden. Concept proposals will be accepted through March 30 and the most competitive proposals will be invited to submit full applications during the second phase.

A virtual pre-recorded workshop will be made available to explain the grant process and requirements. Check the Forest Health webpage to view the workshop. Any questions can be directed to ForestHealth@fire.ca.gov.

The Forest Health program is supported by both California Climate Investments, which invests proceeds from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund through California’s cap-and-invest program in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and benefit disadvantaged communities, and Proposition 4 California Climate Bond, which provides funding for climate resilience and natural

OPINION

As gas prices soar, state’s new carbon emission rules prompt a war of words

Lconflict between the U.S. and Iran raged and gasoline prices soared due to disruption in the global oil trade — a political war erupted in California over proposed air pollution rules that could increase fuel prices even more.

The California Air Resources Board’s new crackdown on greenhouse gas emissions, “risks driving production, and the associated emissions, out of state, ultimately undermining both California’s economic base and global climate objectives,” the California Manufacturers & Technology Association says.

Association President Lance Hastings added in a statement, “If these proposed regulations move forward, Californians should brace for higher costs across the board with no end in sight. There is still time to fix this. CARB and the Legislature must act before it’s too late.”

“This crisis is not a fallacy nor a thinly veiled threat. It is a reality borne by consumers today, who are historically and empirically least able to a ord it.”

The proposed regulation “will cripple the survivability of the state’s remaining refineries, which will result in California losing the entire industry to this misguided program,” Andy Walz, a highlevel Chevron executive, said in a statement. Two California refineries have announced plans to shut down and Chevron, which operates two of the remaining plants, has repeatedly implied that California’s regulatory climate might force it to flee the state as well.

However as business pressured the Air Resources Board to ease the limits, a coalition of environmental groups, including the Environmental Defense Fund, complained that the proposed rules don’t go far enough.

“Last year, in the face of federal backtracking, California reinforced its leadership on fighting climate change by extending its cap-and-invest program while prioritizing reducing high electricity bills and saving households money,” their letter

Gavin Newsom was in typical form recently (which isn’t very good), making two statements that are completely wrong. First, during an interview with Jon Favreau on his podcast “Pod Save America,” Newsom remarked when talking about Israel that some people “are talking about it appropriately as sort of an apartheid state.”

Newsom shared he visited Israel after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack. His power of observation and fact finding ability certainly reminds one of his below-average SAT score.

Israel’s population of 9.5 million is approximately 73% Jewish, 21% Arab and 4% African with a diverse group of others in the mix. Arabs are in the parliament (the Kenesset).

Israel’s literacy rate is 98% and per capita income is $56,000 a year. In Arab states in the area, the annual per capita income is $5,000 to $20,000 and the literacy rate pales

Letters to the Editor

Better military decisions

EDITOR:

As a former Air Force o cer, I definitely don’t consider myself an expert on military ground operations. I have, however, studied both successful and unsuccessful ground operations throughout history and have some thoughts about what should be in the minds of our leaders as they contemplate a possible invasion of Iran.

For example, I think it would be in their interest to review a sampling of readings about Napoleon’s and Hitler’s invasions of Russia. They also might want to read about what happened to the British at Dunkirk. Unfortunately, I’m afraid they probably have stopped with an account of the D-Day invasion and assumed somehow that model will succeed against an entrenched, well-trained army defending its homeland in Iran.

I hope, for the sake of our exceptional, elite, superbly trained Army and Marine fighting forces

our leaders think twice about employing them in such a role. Our forces need to be led by better people. People who don’t equate wars with sports, video games and movies, and who take seriously the life-altering (and ending) results of their decisions.

A new salary structure

EDITOR:

First and foremost, please allow me to thank you for your diligence in bringing relevant news and announcements to your subscribers. As someone a touch younger than your average reader, I find the stories and letters to be of real insight into the minds of my neighbors. The real subject of my letter has to do with the

in comparison. The life expectancy in Israel is 82 for males and 85 for females, several years longer than most Arab states.

Arabs in Israel are free to immigrate to Arab states, but why would they? No, Arabs living in Israel enjoy the prosperity as much as anyone else. That is why Arab citizens in Israel don’t leave or want to leave. They live in one of the most advanced countries in the world.

Newsom also opened his ever growing mouth and said, “California gas prices have stayed below $5 (a gallon) for nearly two years and warned that Trump’s new war is already rattling markets.”

First the average price of gasoline in the rest of the country is about $3 with many states, like Texas and Oklahoma, paying closer to $2 a gallon. But if any place is going to get rattled by the “Iranian turkey shoot” it’s going to be Newsom’s California and his recent signing into

… if any place is going to get rattled by the “Iranian turkey shoot” it’s going to be Newsom’s California and his recent signing into law restrictions on oil in California.

law restrictions on oil in California.

One drove two major refineries out of the state and another blocked 1,400 drilling permits while California is sitting on 1.7 billion barrels of proven reserves. California already imports 63% of its oil and there are no pipelines because of Newsom. The shuttering of the Phillips 66 century-old refinery in Los Angeles and the Valero refinery in Northern California, caused by regulatory requirements as a result of Newsom’s new laws, gasoline is going to have to be imported into California by tanker truck.

A University of Southern California economist said with the closure of the aforementioned refineries in mid2026 gas prices could spike 75%, reaching $8 a gallon by year’s end, not withstanding the current military action in Iran. That might add another $1 or $2.

Now add the highest gasoline taxes in the country. The actual tax is about 71 cents per gallon while the cap and trade, low carbon fuel and boutique fuel blend regulations add about another 55 cents a gallon. High California fuel prices are going to get a lot higher with or without the Iran situation.

And President Donald Trump has ideas that can blunt Iran causing higher oil prices. First by o ering tanker insurance traveling through the Strait of Hormuz and second by escorting oil tankers with our navy. The escorting would certainly be easy enough with our Navy already in position. And then there is the elimination of any Iranian military within the area of the Strait of Hormuz.

Oil prices have already spiked to about $90/barrel as I write this,

party, bell ceremony, flag fold and more. Students learned the protocols and etiquette associated with honors funerals from line of duty deaths in the U.S. and Canada, flag law and etiquette for handling, movement and presenting the national colors of the United States of America. Those in attendance were from area agencies, including the El Dorado County Sheri ’s Department, El Dorado Hills Fire Department, Cal Fire and agencies from the Sacramento area, Oakland, San Mateo and Colorado.

“It is a tremendous honor for the El Dorado Hills Fire Department to host and sponsor this training as we help develop the next generation of honor guard members,” EDH Fire Chief Michael Lilienthal said. “The honor guard represents the very best of the fire service by embodying our traditions, honoring our legacy and demonstrating the highest level of respect for those who have served before us.”

Kantner was a police o cer in Goshen for 25 years and a friend was killed in the line of duty in 1998. He realized there wasn’t a lot of training for the honor guard and organized the Goshen Police Department Honor Guard in 1999. In response to numerous requests to bring the Goshen program to other departments, Kantner founded DFL Honor Guard Training in 2005.

Matt Beckett, a retired El Dorado Hills Fire captain who now works for DFL Honor Guard Training, told Mountain Democrat the EDH program began after the loss of his 2001

Weitzman Continued from A4

which will impact California rising gas prices to perhaps greater than $6/gallon (not including the new restrictive oil regulations), while the rest of the country will enduring $3.35-$3.50/gallon. One of the reasons California gasoline prices are magnified is because of sales and other taxes. When gas goes up 50 cents in California it really goes up by about 55 cents because of the excessive tax structure.

recently proposed and passed raise for the Board of Supervisors — a story that had me squinting so hard, I thought I closed my eyes. It wasn’t very long ago, in my memory, that group after group of underfunded, understa ed county o ces went before the board, pushing for any sort of raise that could help keep up with the ever-increasing cost of living, citing the fact that our county has some of the lowest salaries in the state. And now, after budget cuts and belt tightening, we have members of the board rationalizing pay increases of their own, citing the same pay gap between El Dorado County and others, and voicing the belief “You get what you pay for” in regard to public o ce.

I would like to point out to Supervisor Laine that we get what we vote for. The pay is to tide you over while you serve your time.

However, I do understand the board’s desire for change in salary. Lord knows I do, so I think it would be hypocritical to not pose at least the idea of a solution. And I believe

Walters Continued from A4

read. “However, CARB’s 2026 proposed C&I program amendments fall short of the near-term ambition needed for California to be on a consistent and a ordable path to achieve its 2045 carbon neutrality goals.”

Meanwhile, 15 Democratic legislators released a letter expressing concern that the new rules would raise fuel and energy costs that are already among the nation’s highest.

“This crisis is not a fallacy nor a thinly veiled threat. It is a reality borne by consumers today, who are historically and empirically least able to a ord it,” the legislators said, adding, “California’s climate leadership cannot come at the cost of destabilizing our energy markets and burdening those least able to bear it.”

Interestingly — or ironically — all 15 signatories voted less than a year ago for the legislation that empowered the air board to draft the revisions, which were released in January and are due to be finalized in May. The legislation behind this flurry of warnings and laments is Assembly Bill 1207, which emerged from backroom negotiations last September. It quickly passed and Gov. Gavin Newsom signed it.

The measure renames the cap-andtrade program cap-and-invest and extends it 15 years from 2030, the

academy brother, Ryan Shreve, who died in an o -duty accident in 2003.

“EDH Fire did not have an honor guard. We wanted to honor Ryan and show love and support to his family, but didn’t know how,” he recalled.

“Sacramento Local 522 and El Dorado County Fire honor guards helped us. We are forever grateful to both of those agencies.

“One person in particular exemplified true brotherhood at the highest level.

Firefighter Matt Keck of El Dorado County Fire was battling cancer and under treatment,” Beckett continued.

“That didn’t stop him from standing in the cold Tahoe snow at Ryan’s funeral in November 2003.”

Today, the El Dorado Hills Fire Department Honor Guard consists of 13 dedicated members who have undergone the one-week Goshen camp or the El Dorado Hills Honor Guard camp instructed by DFL Honor Guard Training. Some members have also trained with the Old Guard of Fort Myer, Va.

“The honor guard participates in numerous solemn occasions including, line of duty death funerals, IAFF annual memorial, National Fallen Firefighter Memorial, California Firefighter Memorial,” states information on the EDH Fire Department website. “Their presence symbolizes tradition, honor and respect at firefighter academy graduations, promotions and retirement ceremonies, dedications and new fire station openings, community parades, veterans and memorial observances.”

This Iranian war will be over in a few weeks or less as Iran’s defense is being reduced to zero. In the meantime Newsom will attempt to continue his run for 2028 presidential bid with his false platform. His California record of governance has been as successful as a $3 bill. It will be the downfall of this counterfeit governor.

Larry Weitzman is a former El Dorado County resident.

the board might be on the right track by tying it to something beyond the control of the board (although, I wish they had put this vote o until after that conversation was had).

My proposed metric, and this goes for every elected o cial, would be to tie the income of that representative to the mode of the taxable income of their constituents. (Mode just means the value that appears most often in a set of data values. Think of it like an average, but more accurate to disproportional data. Like income!)

This incentivizes positions to focus on the largest block of people, and gives needed incentive to support growth, eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and work for the people who elected them rather than corporate interest and the interest of the uber-rich who funded their campaign.

However, I know this approach has its flaws and, please, if you can provide points to push back on this line of reasoning, I would love to hear it.

IAN GILZEAN Placerville

current expiration date, coinciding with the state’s declared intention to make California carbon neutral by 2045. It authorizes the Air Resources Board to adjust the emission limits accordingly.

Until now, the state’s business community had fundamentally supported the auctioning of emission allowances as a market approach preferable to the direct regulation of emissions, which many environmental groups favored.

Capitol politicians also liked auctions because they generate large amounts of money — an estimated $31 billion since 2013 — that are supposed to finance carbon emission reductions. One major recipient has been the state’s much-troubled bullet train project. However, when the state incurs one of its periodic budget crises, the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund has also been tapped for expenses that have little, if any, connection to greenhouse gases.

The cost of living is now a topdrawer political concern, and with gasoline prices topping $5 a gallon in many regions, anything that pushes consumer prices even higher is bound to become a political football.

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

Unified basketball tournament nets smiles all around

Richard Mountain Democrat correspondent

Seventh-grader Khloe Feuerback shoots and she scores! Feuerback was just one of approximately 80 students who played at the Unified Basketball Tournament hosted for the first time by Rolling Hills Middle School earlier this month to thundering hoots and hollers from the crowd.

No stranger to unified sports, RHMS has hosted on two occasions Unified Track and Field — the other unified sport currently available for middle schoolers. Unified sports began in 1989 as part of the Special Olympics and was started as a way to develop skills, social inclusion and reduction of stigma within the school sports community.

“Athletes with intellectual disabilities are partnered with students without disabilities to create an environment of friendship, understanding and acceptance,” explained Judy Pickett, RHMS teacher and coach.

“I have been working with this population for the past 12 years at Rolling Hills and it has been one of the highlights of my career,” she added. Pickett leads a class where general education peer mentors and students with intellectual disabilities enjoy sports together.

“The expectation is that the mentors help buddies be successful in the activity we are doing, at whatever level they’re at,” Pickett explained. “Not

only are the buddies learning, but our mentors also experience tremendous growth throughout the year as they begin to understand that they can, and do, make a positive impact in the lives of others. This program is a win for all!”

RHMS seventh-grader Madelyn Todd enjoys her role as a mentor. “You learn something new every day, and it’s a great experience to meet the kids and see them improve,” she shared. “I love playing all the sports like dodgeball games and stu . We do everything. Last week, we did tumbling and soccer.”

“I like making new friends and watching people having fun and all my friends do really good. And I like having my own mentors,” said Madelyn’s buddy Emma Mangan, a star on the court who scored several baskets.

Unified sports was introduced in El Dorado County with soccer in 2016 at William Brooks and Buckeye Elementary schools and by 2020 grew to 18 schools participating in soccer, basketball and track and field from elementary through high school. Today, 25 schools in El Dorado County with more than 400 student athletes participate every school year.

The spring tournament was the third Unified middle school basketball tournament of the region with schools rotating as hosts. This year’s competition brought teams from Rolling Hills, Camino, Pleasant Grove and Markham schools.

“These events have the ability to create a bond, with sports as the catalyst, between groups of students that don’t otherwise have a ton in common,” said Joey Stein, the El Dorado County Adaptive PE teacher who organized the event. “Putting them on the same court with one another and working toward a common goal helps to build friendships that last long after the seasons end.”

O ering students the opportunity to apply to be mentors as an elective was a concept that RHMS Principal Debbie Piccoli Bowers brainstormed 13 years ago.

“Seeing the idea come into fruition and grow better each year has been inspiring,” Bowers said. “It is truly the one program of which I’m most proud. To watch students grow and learn together is a thing of beauty. I’m never quite sure who gets more out of this experience.”

“I like to play basketball,” shared Kaitlyn Wadiak, a seventh-grader at RHMS. Wadiak has participated in unified sports since elementary school with no plans to stop. “We try our hardest, have fun and give it our best shot!”

Wadiak’s mentor Aubrey Miller works with multiple buddies in Pickett’s class. “I love doing this because we get to work with all the di erent kids. It’s just so fun, and I love hanging out with Kaitlyn,” she said. “I’m excited just to see them bond and smile and just have a great time.”

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Just as you can’t tell what kind of charge is in a battery until you hook it up to something that uses the power, you don’t know what capabilities are inside you until you’re in a position to use them. The challenge teaches you what you’re made of.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Whether it’s a person or a sandwich, the truth lives in the middle, in the texture between extremes. Depth requires exposure to the unremarkable — the complicated middle parts that really give you the experience.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). The reward for excellence is often that you’re expected to do more excellence — only faster and cheaper. This hardly seems fair or logical, but somehow, you’ll nd a way to turn it all in your favor. Excellence wins.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). A hundred rainfalls may not seem to make the ocean appear any deeper, but there’s no question that the ocean is made in drops. This is one of those days when you might not feel your progress, but trust that it’s happening little by little.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Love will occur like the wind — an unseen force more known by what it moves than what it is. Love will come to you in many forms — congenial, romantic and platonic — sometimes all in the same relationship.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You will work better when you know why the work is necessary and what it accomplishes for you and for others. Delving into your “why” will lead to ideas that make hard work feel lighter and all work seem rooted to your purpose.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Finding new inspiration is a form of adding to your team. You’ll be guided by the ideas a person or work embodies, and these ideas can fuel and inform what you do like a colleague working alongside you would.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You cannot step in the same river twice, nor can you witness the same sky or live through the same day. You’ll nd splendor in the commonplace things you know so well and at the same time recognize as impossible to know fully.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). The beginning can be a tedious place to start. What’s in the middle? Doing things out of order will be lucky. Can you start with your nishing touches? It will motivate you to at least have them in mind.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You’re easy to open up to. You sometimes learn more about people than you wanted to know. Still, it’s better to know more than not enough. What you hear today helps you anticipate moves and choose yours carefully.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). People genuinely want to please you. Instead of hoping they’ll guess how, tell them. Share your preferences. State your boundaries. Clear expectations make everything easier. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). You know what’s

Downer, president of the Highway 50 Association, also serves as wagon master for the wagon train, coordinating riders, wagons and traffic as the procession follows the storied emigrant route from over Echo Summit and into the county seat.

“If there’s an issue, I have to deal with it and coordinate and make sure everything’s running on time,” Downer said. “And I do that from the back of a horse.”

Downer has been involved with the organization since 2009 and has served steadily as president since 2019, with additional years in the role prior to that. The allvolunteer association organizes the multi-day reenactment each June, commemorating the wagon trains that carried Gold Rush-era newcomers into the Sierra foothills.

Settlers began moving west toward the Pacific in the 1840s, a movement that significantly accelerated with the California Gold Rush. The principal overland route through the Sierra Nevada, near the current Highway 50 corridor at Echo Summit, was once called the “Roaring Road” due to heavy wagon traffic. In 1949, local citizens commemorated the Gold Rush centennial with a onetime wagon train reenactment from Lake Tahoe to Placerville. Due to its popularity, the event became an annual tradition starting in 1951, eventually earning historical recognition from both California and Nevada.

But this year, that heritage faces one of its toughest financial challenges yet.

A budget nearly doubled

For the first time, Downer said, the association will be billed by the California Highway Patrol for traffic control and safety support along Highway 50.

“They’re a vital part. We can’t do it without them,” Downer said. “We can’t get permitted without the CHP going along.”

In past years, CHP assistance was provided as a courtesy or covered through donations. This year, Downer said, the cost for the full trip will be about $20,000.

A statement from the CHP said the agency has long supported community events such as the Highway 50 Association Wagon Train, noting that the annual journey represents a

Budget

Continued from A1

$550,000, compared with $529,000 in 2024.

Inflation showed mixed trends.

The Consumer Price Index averaged about 3.02% through August, down from 3.27% the previous year, though more recent data shows inflation edging back up to about 3.31%, Tornincasa said.

Sales tax remains the city’s largest revenue source. The Bradley-Burns sales tax, which accounts for 1% of the local sales tax rate, generates about 56% of Placerville’s general fund revenue.

The city collected about $6.1 million in sales tax during fiscal year 2024-25 and is forecasting a modest increase to about $6.2 million this year, according to data from the city’s consultant, HDL Companies. Placerville ranked 41st among 540 agencies statewide for per-capita sales tax revenue in 2024, slightly down from 37th the previous year.

Despite the slight drop in ranking, Tornincasa said the city continues to rely heavily on sales tax revenue.

“Sales tax is our number one revenue generator,” she said.

City departments are also keeping spending under control, with several savings tied to vacant positions.

The police department is expected to finish about $167,000 under budget, partly due to temporary vacancies and Measure J funding offsets. Development services and engineering also reported savings due to unfilled positions.

City administration, however, is projected to exceed its budget by about $84,000 because of legal expenses and employee retirement costs.

Overall, police services account for about 34% of general fund spending, while community services make up about 26%.

Community Services Director Denis Nishihara reported increased attendance at several recreation programs, particularly tours at Gold Bug Park.

From July through December 2025, visits to the historical mining park increased, with consistent group tours and returning visitors.

“They’ve done an excellent job up

longstanding regional tradition.

However, the agency said multi-day events that require personnel outside routine operations — including escorting the wagon train along Highway 50 and over Echo Summit — must operate under a reimbursable service agreement.

“This ensures we remain fiscally responsible while continuing to meet our primary mission of providing safety and service to the motoring public,” the statement continued.

According to the agency, the Wagon Train Association was provided a draft reimbursable service agreement in February outlining the scope of services and associated costs.

“The CHP remains committed to working with organizers to promote safety while being responsible stewards of taxpayer resources,” the statement added.

Combined with a recent loss of county Transient OccupancyTax funding and rising expenses across the board, the wagon train’s annual budget has grown from roughly $28,000 in previous years to between $45,000 and $50,000, according to Downer.

“It’s going to be very difficult to sustain it while losing the county funds and having to hire the CHP,” Downer said. “That’s the majority of what we’re raising money for right there.”

The association’s general account is not yet at that level. At its March meeting, members decided to bite the bullet and proceed with the full wagon train rather than shorten it to two or three days or make other adjustments.

For next year the board may have to face a decision to scale back the route — possibly trucking wagons from South Lake Tahoe to Placerville or eliminating the Tahoe leg altogether.

“I hate to cut out South Lake Tahoe because we get a lot of support from them,” Downer said. “We’re in between a rock and a hard place right now.”

Community support along the route

The wagon train typically draws strong community turnout in South Lake Tahoe, Pollock Pines and Placerville. In Tahoe, the local history museum hosts a Western Days celebration the Saturday before departure, often incorporating the wagon train and even sponsoring a

there being consistent with a lot of the group tours,” Nishihara said.

Aquatics participation also increased during the same period, which Nishihara attributed in part to promotion and public interest in the city pool.

Other programs, including some youth and adult special-interest classes, saw slight declines due to staffing limitations, though the department plans to expand offerings in the future.

City Engineer Melissa Savage said engineering encroachment permits declined in number but generated more revenue mainly due to recent permitting structure changes.This included allowing multiple project locations to operate under a single permit while still charging review fees for each site.

“We were still requiring the fee be paid because we do have to review the traffic control situation at each individual location,” Savage said.

In addition to the general fund, Tornincasa also outlined updates to the city’s water and sewer enterprise funds.

The water enterprise fund is expected to reduce its projected deficit from about $70,000 to $31,000. Meanwhile, the sewer enterprise fund is projected to increase its surplus to about $988,000, largely due to Measure H revenue and savings from vacant positions.

Across all city funds, the total operating budget forecast shows revenues of about $28.5 million, slightly above the $28.4 million budgeted. Expenditures are expected to come in about $400,000 below projections.

“City council management continues to operate the city in a prudent and responsible manner,” she said.

After thanking the staff for its work on maintaining the tight budget, Councilmember John Clerici cautioned that some savings resulted from unfilled staff positions.

“We can’t run budget surpluses at the expense of existing staff,” he said. Upcoming budget workshops are scheduled for April 30 and May 13.

wagon.

At Fresh Pond, about 125 people attended last year’s potluck dinner, complete with raffles and a live auction to raise funds. In Pollock Pines the community center hosts a day-long event celebrating the wagon train’s trek along Pony Express Trail. Placerville’s Main Street shuts down to welcome the wagons’ end of line with reenactors, costume contests and oftentimes a welcome from the mayor of Placerville at the Bell Tower.

The association owns three original green Highway 50 wagons — the same style that has crossed Echo Summit for decades. The remaining wagons are privately owned. Wagon sponsorships range from $1,500 to $2,500, with $5,000 for a larger hitch. The association typically secures four or five sponsors each year.

Participants who ride the full route pay about $260.

“We want to make it so people will still come out and do it,” Downer said of registration fees. “But it might be time to take a look at that again.”

Additional revenue comes from memberships, donations through the group’s website and social media pages, merchandise sales and special events. The group is also exploring poker tournaments and applying for grants to help close the gap.

“If we had people that would give donations — even $100 donations would help, $50 donations would help,” Downer said. “Every little bit helps.”

Growth, recognition and frustration

Ironically, Downer said interest in the wagon train is growing.

“I’ve had more people want to join the wagon train with a wagon, team of horses, and I’ve had to turn them away because we just don’t have the funds for it,” he said. “We’re at the point where we could grow and present a bigger wagon train, and we can’t. So it’s just frustrating.”

The association must cover insurance and other costs for any additional wagon to join the train

Grants

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other invasive mussels for the 2026 grant cycle. Applications that discuss the golden mussel or any other invasive mussel may be disqualified during the interagency review process.

To learn more about the QZ Mussel Infestation Prevention Grant Program visit dbw.parks.ca.gov/QZGrant.

About quagga and zebra mussels

Quagga and zebra mussels pose a serious threat to California’s waters and fisheries. The spread of these freshwater mussels threatens recreational boating and fishing, aquatic ecosystems and fisheries, water delivery systems, hydroelectric

carrying passengers on the overland trek. An added expense that has to be closely monitored this year, Downer said.

Drivers and teams come from across California and beyond. This year, participants are expected from San Diego, Florida and even England.

In 2025 the association received the Historical Preservation Award from the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce and special recognitions from District 4 State Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gill, District 5 State Assemblyman Joe Patterson, U.S. Congressman Kevin Kiley, U.S. Congressman Tom McClintock and El Dorado County District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo.

The wagon train’s historical significance, Downer said, is worth preserving. While many emigrants walked alongside their wagons, they all depended on wagon trains for supplies, security and transportation.

“The wagon trains were responsible for bringing the Gold Rush-era newcomers to our area,” he said. “Without that wagon train, those people wouldn’t have come out here.”

An uncertain road

Downer is cautious about framing the current situation as dire or a final chapter.

“I don’t want to mention that it could be the last wagon train, because once those words get out, automatically it’s the ‘last one,’” he said. “But there’s a reality here.”

If the association exhausts its reserves this year, organizers will face rebuilding from square one for 2027.

“The goal we have is to keep it running,” Downer said. “But, if we don’t say anything, nobody knows. I just don’t want it to drift away.”

For now, the wagon master plans to be in the saddle, guiding covered wagons down Main Street in Placerville once again — counting on future community support to ensure the tradition continues for generations to come.

To learn more about the historical wagon train and the Highway 50 Association visit hwy50wagontrain.com.

facilities, agriculture and the environment in general. To help stop the spread of these harmful invasive mussels, local, state and federal entities have increased watercraft inspections at California Department of Food and Agriculture Border Protection Stations; developed and implemented monitoring plans for high-risk waterbodies in the state; trained staff to conduct watercraft inspections and monitoring; executed public outreach campaigns to inform watercraft owners on the need for them to clean, drain and dry their boats when transporting between freshwater bodies; and provided grants.

is Steven Carter, 66, of Camino was also shot and a PG&E worker was reportedly injured by the suspect.

The El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce responded to a residence on Mountain View Drive at around 7:25 a.m. last Thursday after PG&E employees reported they were shot at while working in the area. EDSO Sgt. Jesse Dacanay told the Mountain Democrat SWAT was deployed and o cers spent three hours attempting to deescalate the situation before the shooting occurred around 11:25 a.m.

One of the injured deputies and the PG&E employee have been released from the hospital. The other deputy and Carter remained hospitalized as of press time. Carter was listed in stable condition.

“Both deputies sustained significant, life-altering injuries,” the DSA shared.

The organization launched a PORAC Fund a Hero campaign at porac.org “to ensure the injured deputies and their families don’t have to worry about a single bill while they focus on healing; 100% of these funds go directly toward their medical care, longterm rehabilitation and supporting their families during this di cult time.”

The donations totaled more than $20,000 as of Tuesday morning.

The sheri ’s o ce also noted those in the community who want to

help can learn more on the Thrive with 10-35 site, thrivewith1035.org.

EDSO o cials thanked the community for its outpouring of support.

“The sheri ’s vision for law enforcement in El Dorado County includes ‘total care for victims, witnesses and the community,” a social media post noted. “As two of our brave deputies were injured while protecting the public, we are thankful for and humbled by the ‘total care’ the community has shown them. They are currently receiving medical treatment, surrounded by their families and loved ones, as they begin their road to recovery.

“We would like to thank our partners — El Dorado County Fire, Cal Fire, the El Dorado County DA’s O ce, Placerville Police, South Lake Tahoe Police, Folsom Police, the Placer County Sheri ’s O ce, CHP and everyone who assisted with the incident,” the message continued.

IBEW 1245, the union representing the injured PG&E worker, also released a statement after the incident.

“We’re incredibly relieved that our union brother and fellow crew member is OK after what must have been a terrifying experience. Our thoughts are also with the two El Dorado County sheri ’s deputies who were injured while responding to the situation,” shared

Bob Dean, IBEW 1245 business manager.

“These workers respond to outages and emergencies at a moment’s notice, often working in dangerous conditions around high voltage electricity, severe weather, and other hazards to keep our communities running. That work already comes with real risks,” he continued. “They should never have to worry about violence from the very people they are there to help. Unfortunately, we are seeing incidents like this happen more often, and it’s unacceptable.”

Investigators and CSI completed processing the scene and departed

the area as of March 13.

In accordance with El Dorado County Critical Incident Protocol, multiple investigators from the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce, Placerville Police, South Lake Tahoe Police and EDSO are conducting the investigation.

“While documentation of the scene and collection of evidence are complete, the multi-agency investigatory team will continue working to create a complete, unbiased and accurate understanding of the events of the incident,” sheri ’s o cials noted.

“The investigation is still under way.”

Support That Makes Life Easier

When concern for a loved one becomes overwhelming, finding the right community can make all the difference.

Upcoming Events

Living in a community creates routines that restore purpose. With the support of warm, attentive people, you will see that the person you love is not only cared for, but understood. Eskaton Village Placerville offers versatile living options that foster belonging. From nutritious meals to vibrant activities, your loved one has a full life ahead. A life of living well.

Get to know us better at one of the upcoming events open to the community.

To attend, RSVP to 530-499-8029 or eskaton.org/evp-events

Lunch & Learn | Wednesday, March 18 at 12 p.m.

Enjoy a complimentary lunch and engaging presentation about the lifestyle at Eskaton Village Placerville.

Spring Open House | Saturday, April 18 at 2 p.m.

Explore our scenic campus and learn the ways we combine community life with supportive services.

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Stellar Students

Congratulations to Madison Grandlund of Cameron Park who recently graduated with a bachelor of science in nursing from South Dakota State University.

March 18

Senior Helpers Cameron Park will host Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment Group from 1-2:30 p.m. at Oak Hills Church, 1100 Blue Ravine Road, Folsom.

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host a Ribbon Cutting at Daycation for Seniors from 5:30-7:30 p.m. 3860 El Dorado Hills Blvd., Suite 501. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.

El Dorado Hills Town Center will host its Town Center Connect mixer from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at C. Knight’s Steakhouse. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

Concerned about what to do if a wildfire heads your way? Learn what Fire Safe Councils are doing for the benefit of the community. Join the monthly meeting

Wednesday, March 18 at 6:30 p.m. at CalFire Mt. Danaher Station, 2840 Mt. Danaher Road, Camino. Copies of the group’s Firewise certificate will be available.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Fat Ham” through April 19. For tickets and more information call (916) 9955464 or visit capstage.org.

March 19

The El Dorado County Chapter of the California Native Plant Society will host its Native Plant Sale from Thursday, March 19, 9 a.m. through Sunday, March 22, at 6 p.m. online at shop.eldoradocnps. org. Plant pick up will take place Saturday, March 28, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville.

The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Luncheon with speaker Executive Director of the El Dorado Community Foundation Amy Pooley at the Koto Buffet at Red Hawk from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.

March 20

The Sierra Renaissance Society will present Reflections and Visions, presented by El Dorado Community Foundation Executive Director Amy Pooley from 1-3 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. Admission is free for members; the public is invited to attend two meetings for free. For more information visit srsedc.org.

Narrow Gate Vineyard will host a Spring Open House and “The Kitchen in the Cellar” book signing from noon to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit narrowgatevineyards.com.

Gold Trail Grange in Coloma will host its Community Hall 100th Birthday Celebration at 6 p.m. For more information visit goldtrailgrange.com.

Early Bird tickets are now available for All About Equine’s Boots and Bling fundraiser. For more information visit allaboutequine.org.

1850 Wine Cellars will host Name That Tune With Emily from 5-7 p.m. For more information visit

Student of the quarter named

Buckeye Union School District & Cameron Park Rotary News release

On March 12, Camerado Springs Middle School, part of the Buckeye Union School District, announced that eighth grade student Austin Coyne has been selected by staff as the school’s Rotary Student of the Quarter and was recognized by the Cameron Park Rotary Club for his achievements in academics, leadership and community service.

Austin has distinguished himself throughout his three years at Camerado Springs by maintaining straight A’s in all of his classes, demonstrating a strong commitment to academic excellence. In recognition of his achievements, he is also a member of the California Junior Scholarship Federation, which honors students who demonstrate high levels of

scholarship and character.

Beyond the classroom, Austin is actively involved in many aspects of campus life. He has been a member of both the school’s volleyball and soccer teams and also competes at a high level outside of school as a player for the San Juan Soccer Club. His leadership and enthusiasm have also been on display during school events, including serving as the master of ceremonies for this year’s Camerado Springs Talent Show.

Austin’s contributions extend beyond athletics and academics. He volunteered his time helping organize and support the school’s Elementary Basketball Jamboree, an event that brings together younger students from the community. He also took initiative this year by organizing a shoe drive that collected 172 pairs of shoes for the nonprofit organization Soles4Souls, helping provide footwear to people in need.

In addition to his school and community

involvement, Austin regularly attends services at Bayside Church, where he continues to demonstrate the strong character and values that have made him a role model among his peers.

“Austin represents the very best of what we hope to see in our students,” said Camerado Springs Middle School Principal Doug Shupe. “He excels academically, gives back to his community, participates fully in school life and consistently demonstrates kindness and leadership. We are extremely proud of him.”

The Cameron Park Rotary Club recognizes outstanding middle school students each quarter for their dedication to academics, leadership and service to others.

Camerado Springs Middle School congratulates Coyne on this recognition and looks forward to seeing the continued impact he will make in high school and beyond.

Leading the way in support of Science Camp

Pleasant Valley Middle School students Emmy Emmons and Hazel Gillihan recently became the first students to present at the Gold Oak Union School District February board meeting, sharing their experiences at Science Camp at Sly Park Environmental Education Center in Pollock Pines last September.

Working as a team, Emmy and Hazel prepared a polished slide presentation and speech highlighting their time at Science Camp. They spoke about overcoming fears, building confidence, creating lasting memories and experiencing hands-on learning in an outdoor setting.

Sixth-grade science teacher Jessica Trumble shared her pride in their accomplishments.

“I cannot express how proud and excited I am to see the growth of all our sixth graders this past year — especially Emmy and Hazel,” Trumble said. “Science Camp helped them overcome fears, create lasting memories and experience meaningful learning outside the classroom. It made a difference for them, and now they are helping inspire next year’s sixth graders.”

The Gold Oak Union School District looks forward to launching preparations for the 2026-27 Science Camp program with Sly Park Environmental Education Center. The district remains committed to mentoring and supporting students as they grow and progress throughout their academic journey at Gold Oak Elementary and Pleasant Valley Middle School, providing opportunities for both academic achievement and personal growth.

For more information about the district, visit goes.gousd.org.

Easter ain't no Yolk in Gold Country

Mountain Democrat staff

With the recent plummet in egg prices following last year’s national shortages along with hens producing overtime in local coops the egg hunts in and around El Dorado County are on like flan (which is made with egg, incidentally). Whether you’re an old hand at hen fruit gathering or a newbie still toddling out to gather one or two cackle berries you are bound to find plenty of opportunities to collect that coveted Yolko Ono.

A clutch of local egg hunts:

March 21

• Light of the Hills Lutheran Church will host an Easter Egg Hunt with Games from 10-11 a.m. at 3100 Rodeo Road, Cameron Park. Admission is free. To register or for more information visit loth. org.

March 28

• Cameron Park Community Services District will host its Eggstreme Egg Hunt from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rassmussen Park, Cameron Park. For more information visit cameronpark.org.

• El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host its Aqua Egg Hunt at the Community Pool from 1-3 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.

• St. Mark’s Lutheran Church will host an Egg Hunt from 10 a.m. to noon at 7869 Kingswood Drive, Citrus Heights. Admission is free. For more information visit stmarkslutheran.com.

• Cordova Recreation and Park District will host Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hagan Community Park, 2197 Chase Drive, Rancho Cordova. For more information visit cordovarpd.gov.

• E2 Church will host the E2 Easter Egg Hunt from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the Bunny Bash Special Needs Egg Hunt at 10 a.m. at Cosumnes Oaks High School, 8350 Lotz Pkwy, Elk Grove. Admission is free. For more information visit e2church.com.

March 29

• Cordova Church of Christ will host the Kids’ Easter Egg Hunt from noon-2:30 p.m. at 10577 Coloma Road, Rancho Cordova. Lunch provided

Mimi Escabar

Special sections editor

Tis celebrating its 25th anniversary Saturday, March 21 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Toast the silver milestone with the beautifully crafted wines at 21 of the renowned small-batch, high-elevation wineries in southern El Dorado County.

to all attendees and admission is free. For more information visit cordovachurch.com.

March 30

• Placerville Kiwanis will host the annual Easter Egg Hunt for all ages from 9:30-11 a.m. Lions Park, 3633 Cedar Ravine Road, Placerville. Admission is free. For more information visit placervillekiwanis.org.

April 4

• El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host its Easter Egg Hunt & Pictures with the Easter Bunny event at Promontory Park at 9 a.m. sharp. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd. org.

• El Dorado Hills Town Center will host the Spring Flower Festival, Butterfly Release and Egg Hunt from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Town Center Amphitheater, 4364 Town Center Blvd., El Dorado Hills. Admission is free. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

• Marshal Gold Discovery Park will host its Community Easter Egg Hunt in front of the Saw Mill at 11 am. For more information visit golddiscovery-parkassociation.org.

• Boa Vista Orchards will host Easter Egg Hunts on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at 2952 Carson Road, Placerville. Admission is free. For more information and to register visit boavista.com.

• Fairytale Town in Sacramento presents its Spring Eggstravaganza from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit fairytaletown.org.

• Fair Oaks Recreation and Parks District will host the Easter Eggstravaganza from 9 a.m. to noon. At Fair Oaks Park, 11549 Fair Oaks Blvd., Fair Oaks. Admission is free. For more information visit forpd.org.

April 5

• Mother Lode Lions Club will host its 27th annual Free Easter Egg Hunt for children 0-12 at Indian Creek School, 6701 Green Valley Road, at 1 p.m. sharp.

• Heavenly Village will host Easter Egg Hunts for all ages from 10 a.m. to noon at 1001 Heavenly Village Way, South Lake Tahoe. For more information visit visitlaketahoe.com.

that existed in the El Dorado and the Sierra Foothills viticultural areas encompassing approximately 33 square miles. The total acreage of vineyards is approximately 350 acres, of which at the time 250 acres were in production.

Fair Play received its Final Rule regarding its AVA on April 27, 2001. This designation tells the public the geographic pedigree of its wine. A winery uses a tag on its label called an Appellation of Origin. Appellations are defined either by political boundaries, such as the name of a county, state or country, or by federally-recognized regions called American Viticultural Areas (AVAs).

If a wine is designated with the name of an AVA, federal regulations require that 85 percent or more of the wine is derived from grapes grown within the boundaries of the established AVA and that the wine is fully finished where the AVA is located.

Brian Fitzpatrick, then president of Fair Play Winery Association, filed the petition for this area with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) to establish the viticultural area in southern El Dorado County to help promote the area and to better designate the specific grape growing area where the grapes are being grown.

Viticultural Areas are established all over the United States and regulate labeling and advertising of wine for the public benefit. Each viticultural area is distinguishable by geographical features such as soil, climate, elevation, topography, etc., distinguishing it from surrounding areas.

The Fair Play petition noted the unique qualities and

The first commercial vineyard and winery in the viticultural area was established in 1887 by a Civil War veteran, Horace Bigelow. Bigelow planted 4,000 grape vines and by 1898 was producing between 600 and 1,000 gallons of wine each year.

Today, the Fair Play viticultural area celebrates over 30 wineries producing award-winning wines in the granitic sandy loam soil that sits at 2,000 to 3,000 feet in elevation setting the benchmark of the Fair Play viticultural area.

Come and celebrate the Fair Play AVA at this annual open house that brings together wine lovers and adventurers to experience the region’s beauty and passionate winemakers. Stroll through picturesque vineyards, meet the talented winemakers behind each bottle, and enjoy the activities at each winery. For tickets and to learn more go to fairplaywine.com/ anniversary-2026.

Participating wineries

• Bumgarner Winery, 7380 Vineyard View Drive, (530) 957-7495

• Busby Cellars, 6375 Grizzly Flat Road, (530) 344-9119

• Cantiga Wineworks, 5980 Meyers Lane, (530) 6211696

• Cedarville Vineyard, 6320 Marestail Road, (530)

620-9463

• Chaney Family Winery, 8175 Fairplay Road, (530) 663-6065

• Château d' Estienne, 2700 Omo Ranch Road, (530) 6207960

• Cielo Sulla Terra Estate Vineyards and Winery, 8061 Perry Creek Road, (530) 6207474

• E16 Winery, 8085 Perry Creek Road, (530) 620-6200

• Element 79 Vineyards, 7350 Fairplay Road, (530) 497-0750

• Golden Leaves Winery, 3625 Omo Ranch Road, (530) 6201888

• Gwinllan Estate, 7060 Fairplay Road, (530) 723-2879

• MV Winery, 7261 Fairplay Road, (530) 620-1067

• Medeiros Family Wines, 7480 Fairplay Road, (408) 427-7536

• Mellowood Vineyard, 2979 Mellowood Drive, (530) 599-0313

• Mirador Winery, 2501 Omo Ranch Rosd, (530) 620-7913

• Oakstone Winery, 6470 Irish Acres Road, (530) 620-5303

• Polynesian Girl Winery, 6020 Grizzly Flat Road, (530) 3444788

• Saluti Cellars, 7505 Grizzly Flat Road, (530) 957-2528

• Sentivo Vineyards, 7460 Fairplay Road, (916) 936-3306

• Shadow Ranch Vineyard, 7050 Fairplay Road, (530) 620-2785

• Toogood Wine Caves, 7280 Fairplay Road, (530) 620-1910

• Windwalker Vineyards, 7360 Perry Creek Road, (530) 6204054

Soroptimists give Live Your Dream awards

Soroptimist of Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills

On March 4 Soroptimist International of Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills held a celebration to honor three Live Your Dream recipients at the Cameron Park Country Club. Recipients, family members, guests and club members enjoyed an assortment of hors d’oeuvres and beverages.

The club presented a total of $5,500 to these very deserving women, all of whom have faced hardships. These awards provide women who serve as the primary wage earners for their families with the financial resources to offset costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education or additional skills and training. The awards allow flexibility as they can be used for tuition, books, childcare, carfare or any other education-related expense.

The first recipient, Amerie Apolinar, 19, a single mom of a child less than a year old, lives in El Dorado County and is currently working on an associate’s degree at Folsom Lake College. Her goal is to pursue a degree in psychology and become a behavioral analyst.

“I want to help people in the way some have helped me, … I want to give my son and I a better chance at life,” she said. “Every time I look at my

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Start planning your spring and summer garden now

son, I’m reminded of exactly why I can’t stop trying. He is my motivation, even when it feels like every step forward is met with three steps backward … It’s hard to balance keeping the lights on with staying committed to my education. This grant would give me the chance to choose stability and education at the same time. With dedication and discipline, I believe I will be a behavioral analyst.”

The second recipient, Courtney Chambers, is 47 years old with two children, 16 and 19. She lives in Roseville and is enrolled at Sierra College and is also studying psychology.

Chambers shared that after years of a toxic marriage and helping her children through the Covid lockdown as a single mom, she established the will to pursue education.

Her long-term goal is to become a licensed therapist “specializing in trauma recovery, mindbody wellness and holistic healing.” She said, “after completing my bachelor’s degree in psychology, I plan to earn a master’s degree in counseling to become a licensed marriage and family therapist. I want to help people process grief, abuse and chronic stress through integrative methods that combine traditional talk therapy with somatic practices.” Eventually she wants to have her own business to do this.

Recipient three is Iryna. At 27, she was suddenly a widow with two young children. With only a

high school education, she got her certification in phlebotomy but now is going to Sierra College on a path to becoming a nurse.

As with all the recipients, the Live Your Dream grants help to mitigate the challenges of working, going to school, parenting and dealing with financial constraints.

Soroptimist of Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills is part of a global organization that works to improve the lives of women and girls. The Live Your Dream Award supports this mission. Soroptimist International of the America Live Your Dream Awards provide over $2 million in cash grants to head-of-household women in need each year. Research by the Fels Institute of Government, found this program improves the recipients’ quality of life; builds their confidence; strengthens their self-determination and makes them want to, in turn, help others. In fact, helping women in this way has the demonstrated effect of leading to stronger communities, nations and the world.

Anyone interested in membership with the Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills club, can check sicpedh.com. All Soroptimist clubs are nonprofit organizations and rely on charitable donations to support programs. Worldwide, Soroptimist has nearly 100,000 members in 120 countries. For more information about how Soroptimist improves the lives of women and girls visit soroptimist.org.

It’s that time of year — time to start thinking about starting seeds for your spring and summer vegetable garden. Why? Because starting spring and summer vegetables indoors from seed is easy, economical and gives you access to thousands of unique varieties of your favorite vegetables, many that you won’t find in the nursery. Though many vegetables can be seeded directly in the garden once the soil warms later in spring, early spring vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and lettuce can be seeded indoors in January and February, while tomatoes and peppers are typically started in February and March. Sources for vegetable seeds include nurseries, catalogs, websites and local seed libraries. Plant seeds into clean seed-starting mix rather than soil from your garden, which can contain fungus and other pathogens that can cause problems for young plants. Seed-starting mix can be found at any garden store and typically contains some combination of peat, perlite, shredded fir bark, vermiculite and sand.

Seeds and seedlings need the right temperature, moisture and light to germinate and grow strong and healthy. A greenhouse or sunny windowsill can provide the right conditions for optimal germination and early growth. Seed packets provide information

about ideal conditions for germination, sunlight requirements and plant spacing for each specific vegetable. You’ll also find a packing date on the seed packet. If your seeds are more than a few years old, put one or two extra seeds into each planting container to account for the fact that older seeds tend to germinate at lower rates than fresher seeds. Be patient, as some spring and summer vegetable seeds, notably peppers, can be slow to germinate. Once your seedlings have emerged, be sure they have adequate light, without which they’ll stretch out and grow spindly. Cool, damp conditions make young seedlings especially susceptible to damping-off fungus. For more information on damping-off disease, visit the UC IPM website at ipm. ucanr.edu/PMG/ PESTNOTES/pn74132. html.

Seedlings need adequate air circulation, so make sure to water

Attend adult volunteer training

Nicole Craine

Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference

Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference is inviting community members who want to make a difference in the lives of young people, while also helping those who are most vulnerable in the community, to attend an upcoming Adult Volunteer Training Workshop.

The free, in-person training will take place Saturday, March 21, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fire Station 85 in El Dorado Hills. The workshop is designed for individuals interested in volunteering with Hands4Hope and supporting youth as they develop leadership skills through meaningful service-learning projects and outreach opportunities. Most involvement opportunities take place from Folsom to Placerville, with some in Sacramento. Participants will learn how Hands4Hope’s youth-led model works and how adult volunteers play a vital role in mentoring, supporting and guiding young people as they plan and carry out service projects that benefit their communities.

Adult volunteers say the experience is both meaningful and inspiring.

“Volunteering for Hands4Hope has provided me with a sense of purpose following retirement. I enjoy the network of amazing adult volunteers, the impressive Hands4Hope staff and leadership are a joy to work with, and I am inspired by the youth who show up enthusiastically to meet each challenge with compassion, energy, curiosity and commitment to make a positive difference through service to their community,” said Tracy Messineo, a current volunteer.

Hands4Hope emphasizes the importance of a diverse volunteer base. Adult volunteers include retirees from a wide variety of careers and

homemaker backgrounds, young adults (often Hands4Hope alumni or college students), parents who want to volunteer alongside their children, empty nesters and community members looking for meaningful ways to give back and engage with youth while addressing unmet needs among vulnerable populations.

“As an adult volunteer or mentor, you get the chance to meet new people who also love to serve the community,” said Nissa Martin, a current volunteer and Hands4Hope parent. “The best part about being involved is watching the youth grow as individual leaders, as well as working as a team. You get to see them learn to trust their peers and adult mentors. When our youth (and adult mentors) trust each other, they are willing to take risks, which leads to personal growth.

Hands4Hope truly teaches our youth how to make a difference.”

During the session, participants will gain practical tools and insights to help them feel confident supporting youth-led projects and creating positive, inclusive environments.

Attendees will learn to understand the role and expectations of an adult lead, support youth-adult partnerships and the five Cs of positive youth development, follow outreach protocols and safety procedures, foster inclusive environments based on respect and belonging, and help youth groups build strong relationships and teamwork. The Adult Volunteer Training Workshop is an opportunity to explore a meaningful volunteer role, build leadership skills and connect with others who share a passion for empowering youth to make a difference.

Register online in advance at hands4hopeyouth.org. Those with questions may call (916) 294-7426 or email info@hands4hopeyouth.org.

just enough to keep the soil damp but not soggy. Before planting them in the garden, seedlings will need to be hardened off, which is the process of exposing them slowly to their eventual outdoor home. A week or two before you intend to plant your seedlings, place them in filtered — not direct — sunlight for a few hours a day, bringing them in at night and slowly increasing the time they spend outside. If you follow these simple guidelines, you’ll be ready to plant a bountiful spring and summer garden. For more information about UC Master Gardener classes, events and garden resources visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu.

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

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

Sweetwater Trail

Take a stroll along the lake this spring.

Sweetwater Trail, located in the Folsom State Recreation Area, is a scenic 6-plus-mile out-and-back hike that follows Sweetwater Creek, a tributary of Folsom Lake. The trail is filled with wildflowers, rocky outcrops and sweeping views of the surrounding hills — a visual delight from start to finish.

This is a multiuse trail, and dogs are welcome on leash. Thanks to the Folsom Auburn Trail Riders Action Coalition, much of the trail has been cleared following winter storms. However, with dense vegetation lining the path, it is a challenge to keep up with fallen trees and

brush. I wanted to hike this trail before the summer heat made it oppressive. While there are shaded sections, sun-sensitive hikers should bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Poison oak was already glistening with oil in March, so if you are sensitive to it, wear long sleeves and pants — it grows in abundance along the trail.

From Auburn:

Take Highway 49 from Placer County into El Dorado County, heading toward Cool. Turn right onto Rattlesnake Bar Road, then immediately left onto Salmon Falls Road. Cross the American River and look for the Salmon Falls Rafters Take-Out parking lot on your left. The trailhead is just to the right of the restrooms. This is a fee area.

From Folsom:

Head northeast on Folsom Boulevard and turn right onto Blue Ravine Road. Blue Ravine becomes Green Valley Road at the shopping center. Continue on Green Valley Road to Salmon Falls Road. About two miles up, just past Sweetwater Creek, you

will find a dirt lot with no signage — this marks the end of the trail.

The highlight for me was spotting shooting stars. I have never seen them at such a low elevation. I also loved the fragrant patches of sage and mint scattered along the way.

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.

High school students invited to enter Congressional Art Competition

igh school students across the country are invited to participate in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, a

nationwide program that celebrates and encourages young artistic talent.

Sponsored annually by members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute, the bipartisan competition gives students

the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for approximately 11 months. With millions of visitors passing through the Capitol each year, the exhibition is considered one of the most widely viewed student art displays in the country. Winning artwork from each participating congressional district will be displayed in the Capitol, where it will be seen by members of Congress, staff and visitors from around the world. The 2026 competition is being hosted by congressional co-chairs Stephanie Bice, R-Okla., and Joe Morelle, D-N.Y.

“The Congressional Art Competition highlights the extraordinary talent that exists in communities across the nation,” Bice said. “It gives students a unique opportunity to see their work displayed in the People’s House while encouraging them to engage with our democratic process in a personal and lasting way.”

Students interested in participating should contact the office of their member of Congress for specific rules and submission deadlines for their district. Entrants must submit artwork through the competition held in the congressional district where they live.

Students who are unsure of their representative can use the Find My Representative tool available on the U.S. House of Representatives website at house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative. Congressional offices interested in hosting a district competition can request additional information by emailing art@conginst.org.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — Every mountain climb begins with a single step, and every strong community begins with people who care deeply.

This year, Michael Habicht, MD, an emergency medicine physician who cares for patients at Barton Health, is taking his commitment to healing beyond the walls of the emergency department. Habicht is preparing to climb Mount Makalu in Nepal, the world’s fifth-highest mountain at 27,825 feet, to raise funds in support of pediatric emergency services at Barton Health.

The climb represents both a personal challenge and a broader mission: to help ensure children in the Lake Tahoe region have access to the highest level of emergency care when they need it most. Funds raised through the effort will directly support advanced medical equipment, specialized training for care teams and family-centered pediatric emergency care at Barton Health.

“Caring for children in emergency situations requires specialized resources and expertise,” Habicht said. “My goal is to give back to the community I serve to ensure our youngest patients receive the best possible care, close to home.”

Community members are invited to support Habicht’s climb. Every donation brings the Barton Health Foundation closer to enhancing pediatric emergency services for families across the region.

More information is available at

Plein air painter captures the spirit of local landscapes

njoy an intimate selection of landscapes from El Dorado County in oil and pen and ink by local artist David Yapp on display at the El Dorado County Library Placerville branch through March 31. The paintings reveal distant vistas of canyons and mountains glimpsed through the branches and foliage typical of the Sierra foothills. Alongside the paintings of El Dorado County is a majestic view of Marin County’s iconic landmark, Mount Tamalpais.

Yapp grew up in rural southern England, where he spent his youth exploring and observing the changing scenery, seasons and weather patterns of his home county of Wiltshire. The landscapes and towns of the region are rich in history and have long fed the artistic hearts and minds of artists such as John Constable and J. M. W. Turner and writers such as Thomas Hardy and George Herbert.

Since moving to California, he predominantly paints en plein air (in the open air) directly on location. Working in oils, Yapp uses a combination of palette knives and brushes to apply thin passages of color alongside thick impasto. Often, he further works into the surface using a sgraffito technique — scratching back the paint to reveal the tinted ground of the canvas beneath. Further layers may then be applied to create a multilayered relief. This approach enables him to create a sense of depth and movement, capturing both the essence of a particular landscape and

1850winecellars.com.

The Sacramento Ballet presents “Visions” at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday. For more information visit sacballet.org.

March 21

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County host the Getting Ready for Planting Season Workshop from 9 a.m. to noon at the Placerville Veterans Memorial Building. This class focuses on areas that will help you plan ahead for planting season and help you prepare for more successful planting in your garden. To register visit tinyurl. com/ytp2bdyz.

Camp Richardson Resort’s Snowshoe Cocktail Races will feature competitors racing with cocktail trays in hand through obstacles while on snowshoes on the beach at The Grove restaurant – all for prizes and bragging rights from 5-9 p.m. Learn more at camprichardsonresort.com.

Findleton Estate Winery in Camino will host Sip, Sparkle and Create from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Participants will design their own handcrafted earrings — materials provided. Learn more at finzinwines.com.

Miraflores Winery will host the Pinsa & Music Event with special guest Spanish guitarist Phil Summers from 2-4 p.m. For more information visit mirafloreswinery.com.

Episcopal Church of Our Saviour in Placerville will host Hither & Yon live in concert at 4 p.m. For more information visit oursaviourplacerville.org.

Ed Wilson will perform at Solid Ground Brewing in Diamond Springs 4-7 p.m. 1850 Wine Cellars will host Community Night Wine Dinner from 6-8 p.m. For more information visit 1850winecellars.com.

Toogood Winery Tasting Room in Fairplay will host a Bottle Your Own Wine event from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit toogoodwinery.com.

The Ponderosa High School Foundation hosts its Green and Gray Gathering, 5:30-9 p.m. at the Rescue Community Center. Learn more at pondofoundation.

his emotional response to it.

In addition to his oil paintings, he works in pen and ink on paper. Using a dip pen and India ink, he draws out the composition before adding color

Francisco presents Monet and Venice on display through July 26. Learn more at famsf.org.

March 22

Music on the Divide presents Dave Stamey live from 3-5 p.m. at IOOF Hall in Georgetown. For more information visit musiconthedivide.org.

The Mother Lode Lions will host a Fundraising Breakfast from 7-11 a.m. serving bacon, sausage, eggs, pancakes, fruit, juice and coffee at 4701 Missouri Flat Road, Diamond Springs. For more information contact motherlodelions@gmail.com.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Gallery Talks: Royal Chicano Air Force with Rudy O. Cuellar at 2 p.m. For tickets and more information visit crockerart.org.

Casino Mine Ranch Winery in Plymouth will host a Slice of Spring, a delicious wine

and pizza pairing under the Trellis, from noon to 3:30 p.m. For more information visit casinomineranch.com.

Now

The El Dorado Rose Corporation is looking for candidates for the 2026-27 El Dorado Rose. A candidate must have the following qualifications: Is 60 years or older, has been a resident of El Dorado County for a minimum of 10 years and has contributed volunteer services throughout her life. Also, a candidate must be sponsored by a business, club, organization or an individual. The sponsor submits an application and pays an entry fee. Both are due by April 1 and needs to be submitted to El Dorado Rose, El Dorado Rose Corporation, P.O. Box 282, Placerville, CA 95667. The entry fee covers admission to the Rose Ball for the candidate. For more information call Diane Lehr at (530) 845-2513.

with a brush and colored inks. Yapp’s work is deeply influenced by the aforementioned English landscape painters John Constable and J. M. W. Turner as well as the bold approaches of Canadian artist Tom Thomson and post-impressionist Vincent van Gogh. To learn more about the artist, his work and future events visit davidyapp.com.

Registration is open for the free Professional Advisors Forum on May 7 from 8-11 a.m. with breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at Serrano Country Club. This educational event offers continuing education credits for MCLE, CFP and CPE requirements. To register visit tinyurl.com/22d5ndtk.

Studio 81 at El Dorado High School presents “Little Shop of Horrors” through March 21. For tickets and more information visit studio81arts.com.

Oak Ridge High School Theater presents “Chicago: Teen Edition” continuing through March 21. For tickets and more information visit ortab.org.

The Atrium Gallery at El Dorado Hills Town Center will host Abstract Expressions though March 22. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents East of the Golden Gate, a new exhibit at the Fountain & Tallman Museum through May 8. For more information visit edchs.org. Broadway at Music Circus presents “Jesus Christ Superstar” at the UC Davis Health pavilion through March 22. Learn more at broadwaysacramento.com.

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