Village Life/Cameron Park Life, Wed., May 6, 2026

Former Cameron Park GM back in a different role

Noel Stack Editor

The Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors said goodbye to former General Manager Maurice Johnson in March. Last month, they welcomed him back — this time as a consultant. At the recommendation of GM Mark Hornstra, the board unanimously approved a professional services agreement with Strategic Public Safety Solutions, of which Johnson is an owner/managing partner. The contract will not exceed $35,000.

“The district is currently addressing a number of complex operational, organizational, and strategic priorities, including annexation e orts, re service planning, labor relations, policy development and broader organizational coordination,” Hornstra wrote in a sta report. “To support these

■ See AGREEMENT, page A5

ANoel Stack Editor

Three candidates vying for the El Dorado County District 4 supervisor seat answered questions and shared their visions in front of a nearly full house at the Gold Trail Grange in Coloma on April 30.

Gina Posey, Greg Clark and Robert Deitz talked topics ranging from budget de cits to re safety and vacation home rentals to senior services during the event hosted by the League of Women Voters of El Dorado County and moderated by chapter President Elizabeth LeslieGassaway. Candidate Ted

Noel Stack Editor

El Dorado County Treasurer-Tax Collector

Sean Coppola calls his job “the perfect role.” The appointed department head is on the ballot this June to keep his elected seat.

“The scal success of the county is so important to the wellbeing of the community and I know that rsthand from being in the o ce for the past couple of years and seeing how intertwined everything is,” Coppola shared. “And I see (running) as a great

■ See COPPOLA, page A5

Cameron Park veteran will soon take part in a trip designed to honor his service and create a lasting memory.

On May 14, Honor Flight Bay Area will embark on its 42nd mission, ying a group of veterans from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., for an all-expenses-paid, three-day visit to the nation’s military memorials.

Among those selected is Norm Wheeler, a 92-year-old Army veteran and El Dorado County resident who served during the Korean War as a radio operator stationed along the border between North Korea and South Korea, a position he referred to as

“peacekeeper.”

Wheeler said he was both surprised and grateful when he learned he would be part of the trip.

“Well, I thought it was great,” Wheeler said. “It’s my birthday. I’ll be 93 while I’m gone, and I was just honored to be included.”

Wheeler will turn 93 on May 20.

The Honor Flight program pairs each veteran with a “guardian” who assists them throughout the journey. Wheeler will travel alongside fellow veteran James Cahill, an El Dorado County resident who served in Guam with the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. The two had not met prior to being paired for the trip.

District 4 candidates get candid

Two candidates vying to be county’s treasurer-tax collector

Noel Stack Editor

Corey Leikauf isn’t looking for a glamorous job; the El Dorado County treasurer-tax collector candidate said he prefers positions that o er a challenge without the attention.

“I like doing things behind the scenes. I’ve always been that type of person,” Leikauf said. “I get joy from working through complex problems and trying to make things run smoother and more e ciently.” Leikauf, an El Dorado County native who

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Student of the Quarter honored

Special to Village Life

The Rotary Club of Cameron Park proudly recognized Brendon Nelson, an eighthgrade student at Pleasant Grove Middle School, as Student of the Quarter. During the presentation, Rescue Union School District Superintendent Jim Shoemake praised Brendon for his positive character and contributions to both his school and community.

School counselor Lauren Todoro noted that Brendon consistently demonstrates the qualities valued in every student, including positivity, inclusiveness, diligence and active engagement.

plete chores, sometimes needing to be reminded to let others nish their assigned tasks. In his neighborhood, he is a dependable and trusted helper, frequently caring for pets, watering plants and assisting neighbors — especially seniors — with physically demanding tasks such as moving heavy items or shoveling gravel.

Known for his kindness and initiative, Brendon o ers help without expecting anything in return. He is even quick to assist in searching for lost pets, dropping what he is doing to help others in need.

“Brendon’s kind and generous spirit truly sets him apart,” Todoro added. “He leads by example and consistently strives to do the right thing.”

“He is a friend to all and well-liked by students and sta alike,” she said. Brendon’s strong work ethic and willingness to help extend beyond the classroom. At home, he assists his parents and o en volunteers to com-

In recognition of his achievements, Brendon received a certi cate of achievement and a Barnes & Noble gi card.

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Gardens of the Hills fundraiser blooms

Assistance League Sierra Foothills News release

The Assistance League Sierra Foothills Gardens of the Hills tour is set for the rst weekend in June and while the gardens are the stars, there is so much more to this event.

Each ticket will grant entry to ve private gardens plus a special garden this year, the Lakers’ Student Garden. Visit them all on one day or spread visits over both Saturday and Sunday, June 6 & 7.

At Lake Forest Elementary School guests can visit the Lakers’ Student Garden, where students are given the opportunity to enhance their understanding of what it takes to grow and maintain a vegetable garden. Including this site aligns with Assistance League Sierra Foothills’ vision to enhance the lives of youth through community programs. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet some of the young gardeners and will be impressed with their new-found passion for agriculture and excitement at showing o their crops. In addition to the beautiful owers and vegetables, garden guests will nd many other features to make the day an enjoyable adventure. The nonpro t’s always popular ra e with amazing, themed baskets will be at one of the gardens. For even more shopping pleasure there will be artisan merchants with a selection of garden-related items for purchase.

Pause in the gardens to listen to acoustic music, speak with or get a bit of advice from a UC Davis Master Gardener and watch a local plein air artist paint. Ice cream treats and lemonade will be available to purchase as well. A familyfriendly scavenger hunt invites guests to search for Nutmeg the Squirrel hidden in each garden, with a prize drawing for those who nd him at every stop.

Tickets are on sale through the organization’s website, assistanceleague.org/sierra-foothills, and are also available from members

and at local outlets, including the California Welcome Center in El Dorado Hills and My Besties Closet.

This event provides the community with an enjoyable outing while raising funds that enhance the lives of youth and adults in El Dorado County. The nonpro t’s signature program, Operation School Bell, helps homeless and disadvantaged children receive brand new school

clothes. Additional programs aid youth with reading comprehension skills, provide underserved kids with the opportunity to play organized youth sports, engage seniors in social interactions, award young adults with college tuition scholarships and assist children and women with a bit of dignity in situations of emergency relocation by providing sturdy du el bags in which to carry their belongings.

EDH Girl Scout earns her gold

Special to Village Life

Oak Ridge High School senior Natalie Samrick has earned the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest award a Girl Scout may earn. For the project, which includes 80 logged hours and culminates in something permanent that adds to the betterment of a community, Natalie worked to improve communication and student participation at her school.

She started a newscast in 2024 a er discovering school spirit could be improved among the student body.

“A big problem personally to me was my school, especially communication with one another and school spirit,” Natalie explained. “A lot of students go to football games, but when I asked students why they didn’t attend school dances or other sporting events like basketball and volleyball games, I learned it’s because they didn’t know about them. So, I thought it would be good to start the newscast to help with communication and then hopefully

activities.

raise the school spirit.” Natalie approached her advisor and Oak Ridge Leadership teacher Jennifer Slinger, and she agreed. “Every week I wrote the script, lmed

videos, and edited the videos and sent it out on the school’s Instagram,” Natalie continued. “I couldn’t have done it

Art showcase and online auction to bene t Animal Outreach

News release

Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode will host the Paw Brigade Showcase Reception, 1-6 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, at Friends Real Estate, 875 Embarcadero Drive in El Dorado Hills, kicking o the Paw Brigade Online Auction bene ting animals in need. The free community event will feature a preview of one-of-a-kind catand dog-inspired artwork created by local artists, all of which will be available for bidding during the online auction running May 9-23.

Guests attending the showcase reception can enjoy live music by Dog Park Justice, charcuterie and drinks, a fur baby photo booth, and the opportunity to view the artwork in person before bidding begins. Friendly dogs are welcome. “The Paw Brigade brings together local artists, animal lovers and our community to make a real di erence for animals in need,” said Vicki Shapleton, vice president of Animal Outreach of the

“Funds

Local educators nominated for national LifeChanger award

Oak Ridge High

arts

Dianne Goldman and Ponderosa High School math teacher Natalie Norwood have been nominated for National Life Group’s 2025-26 LifeChanger of the Year award, which recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.

Goldman was nominated for having a classroom that blends creativity, laughter and hands-on learning, helping students build skills and confidence in knife work, plating, and restaurant service.

With a background in fashion design and decades of culinary experience, she brings artistry and precision to her teaching. She’s dedicated to her students, spending over 800 hours annually mentoring them at national competitions, where many have earned gold medals.

Norwood was nominated by Dan Ona for building a positive classroom environment around collaboration, encouragement and learning from mistakes. She guides students patiently, emphasizing that understanding is her responsibility as their teacher. Her dedication ensures every student feels supported, valued, and empowered.

About LifeChanger of the Year

Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,600 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts. The program has awarded over $850,000 in cash prizes to winners and their schools for making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.

• Grand Prize winner will receive $20,000 to be shared with their school/ district.

• Four Grand Prize finalists will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.

• Ten LifeChanger Award winners will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district.

• Spirit Award winner: This award is given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support

Students showcase their talents at Rotary event

Special to Village Life

Rotary District 5190, Area 6 — comprising the Rotary Clubs of Placerville, Cameron Park, Georgetown, and Pollock Pines/Camino —held the annual music and speech contest at El Dorado High School last month.

Lucas Dapremont, a ninth-grader at Ponderosa High School and sponsored by the Rotary Club of Cameron Park, earned first place in the music contest and received a $250 prize. He performed a piano piece adapted from “The Flight of the Bumblebee,” arranged by Jack Fina.

The speech contest, held separately, was based on this year’s Rotary International theme, “Unite for Good: Together We Make Dreams Come True.”

The Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host its Networking After Dark Mixer at Los Pinos, 3420 Palmer Drive, Shingle Springs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information call (530) 677-8000 or visit sscpchamber.org.

FLC Dance and Music Departments presents A Swingin’ Salute Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday at 6:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

May 8

El Dorado County Fair trails presents The Mother

Tucker Hoel, a junior at American River Charter School and sponsored by the Georgetown Rotary Club, captured first place and a $250 award. Lilia Olson, a junior at Mountainside Middle College High School and sponsored by the Placerville Rotary Club, earned $150 for her second-place finish. Grant Raffetto, a senior at El Dorado High School and also sponsored by the Placerville Rotary Club, received $100 for placing third.

First-place winners Lucas and Tucker advanced to the district competition on May 2 in Reno, Nev. Area 6 Governor Don Fuller commended the students on their performances. “These students represented their schools and clubs well and showed a high level of preparation and talent,” Fuller said. “We appreciate their hard work.”

of All Spaghetti Feeds, 5 p.m. at the Rescue Community Center, 4180 Green Valley Road. For tickets and more information visit edc-farmtrails. org.

May 9

American River Canine will host the Pack Walk – El Dorado Hills Town Center at 4:30 p.m. Bring your dog for a walk around around the pond, through center, to Pet Food Express, to Ace Hardware and back to the amphitheater. To learn more or to register visit edcgsr.org/pack-walks.

for their nomination. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.

• Spotlight Award winner: This award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.

Winners are chosen by a selection committee composed of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2026. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees. To be considered for an award, nominees must

• Make a positive impact on the lives of students

• Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture and pride

• Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level

• Possess a proven record of professional excellence

• Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning

• Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards

A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit.

To view Goldman and Norwood’s LifeChanger of the Year nominee profiles, or to nominate someone from your school community, visit the organization’s website at LifeChangeroftheYear.com.

Blue Zones dropped

Shelly Thorene Staff writer

Marshall Medical Center recently announced the organization will not move forward with the Blue Zones Project “due to significant financial constraints at Marshall, which are a barrier for a successful launch of the program at this time.”

In September 2025, the Blue Zones Project team connected with Marshall Marshall Medical Center to conduct a study to assess health challenges in El Dorado Hills and determine whether a partnership would benefit the community. Over the course of six months, a series of meetings, events and and focus sessions were held within a discovery phase of the initiative at a cost to Marshall of $135,000.

The Blue Zones initiative partners with local healthcare facilities and local government to improve community health by “improving street and park designs, public policy and social involvement so that it is easy for people to make healthy choices.” Blue Zones goals include lowering obesity in children and adults, decrease smoking and increase exercise.

Marshall CEO Siri Nelson said the Blue Zones discovery process in El Dorado Hills “really helped Marshall understand all the different elements involved in developing a healthy community beyond our hospital and clinics and we are grateful for the insights and contributions of the Blue Zones team and every community member who engaged with us to offer feedback.”

Nelson continued, “The recent and ever-changing healthcare landscape at both the local and federal levels has called for many community healthcare organizations, including Marshall, to do all we can to steward our financial resources in a manner that sustains our operational capacity and our ability to provide care for our patients. This shift in priorities across the entirety of our health system inevitably resulted in a shortage of the capacity necessary for Marshall to pursue any new initiatives outside of those core priorities”

May 13

SIR — Gold Country branch meets the second Wednesday of the month at the Cameron Park Country Club. Check out the club and be a guest for a complimentary lunch. SIR is an organization which offers social activities for men over 50. Contact the branch’s membership chairman at SIRBranch95@gmail.com for more details. Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host Caregiver Support and Activity Enrichment Group, 1-2:30 p.m. at Foothills Church, 2380 Merrychase Drive, Cameron Park.

May 14

Park. For more information and preregistration visit eldoradohillscsd.org.

May 18

Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host The Power of Reminiscence Presentation, 1-2 p.m. at the Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills.

Now

Wristbands are on sale for the Cameron Park Community Services District’s Summer Spectacular scheduled for June. 27. Visit cameronpark.org for details. The CSD is also looking for event volunteers to help with setup and cleanup, work concessions, parking and the gate, watch over at the Kids Zone and transport guests via golf cart. Volunteers will receive free admission, a T-shirt and dinner. For more information call (530) 677-2231.

Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive, 11a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Bloodmobile bus will be parked near the baseball fields at Community Park, 1021 Harvard Way. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM019 or call (877) 2584825. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

May 16

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County will host All About Lavender, 9 a.m. to noon at Blackstone Community Clubhouse, 1461 Blackstone Parkway in El Dorado Hills. In El Dorado County’s Mediterranean climate, lavender is a beautiful, fairly drought tolerant, and pest resistant garden plant, with a wide variety of specimens in many colors and sizes. Add to that it’s fragrance and culinary use and you have a plant worth exploring. Discuss botany, how to plant, care for, harvest and use. We’ll also teach you to propagate lavender to take home with you. Register at tinyurl.com/557s5xah. All About Equine’s Boots and Bling will take place at 4 p.m. at the Folsom Community Center. For more information visit allaboutequine.org.

May 17

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host Yoga in the Park at 9 a.m. at Saratoqa

The Atrium Gallery EDH at El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts Spring Studio, an artists exhibition featuring the works of Volha Narita-Johnson and Jenny Huang, through May 17. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Hadestown: Teen Edition” through May 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Folsom History Museum presents Ride ‘Em Cowboy – the Folsom Rodeo Exhibition through Jan. 4, 2027. Learn more at folsomhistory.org. EDH Cars and Coffee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El

Continued from A1 Agreement

e orts, the general manager solicited and received a proposal from Strategic Public Safety Solutions … to provide professional consulting and advisory services. SPS brings executive-level experience in public safety leadership, special district governance and organizational development, including prior experience supporting agencies with similar needs.”

Hornstra told the board the district needs a “unique skillset” to tackle the issues. The board agreed that Johnson and his team have those skills with Director J.R. Hichborn noting, “There isn’t anything Mo can’t do.”

Acknowledging the complexity of the issues for which the consultant could

Honor Flight

To help make the experience possible, American Legion Post 119 in Placerville branch provided nancial support for Cahill’s participation.

During a recent meeting, Commander Laurelee Flannery presented a $1,250 check to cover the guardian’s costs, allowing both veterans to make the trip together.

Despite not knowing his guardian beforehand, Wheeler said sharing the experience adds to the signi cance of the journey.

“I had never heard of Honor Flight before, but I’m honored to be going with other vets,” Wheeler said.

The trip itinerary includes visits to memorials and museums dedicated to American military history, including stops Wheeler is particularly looking forward to.

Leikauf

currently works in the county AuditorController’s O ce, has a background in both government and private sector accounting. He graduated from Boise State University and started his career at U.S. Bank.

“There, I focused on cash ow management, reconciling, internal controls, and it’s a heavily regulated environment,” Leikauf explained.

provide assistance, Director Tim Israel said, “Having a stable of experts is a good thing. We need them.”

The public agreed.

“(The district) will probably save money because he doesn’t have to ramp up,” commented Cameron Park resident and former CSD director Eric Aiston.

The contract was approved at the April 15 board meeting. Structured as an independent contractor agreement, the Strategic Public Safety Solutions team will commence consulting services at the direction of the CPCSD general manager or designee on an “as needed” basis.

The next board meeting is May 20.

Continued from A1

“I get to go to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and visit a new war museum,” Wheeler said. “I want to see it all.”

Wheeler, who grew up primarily in Napa and served about two years in the Army, hopes to meet fellow Korean War vets during the trip or learn more about their experiences in the war.

Looking ahead, he said the Honor Flight is about more than sightseeing — it’s about re ection.

“This will be a memory and will be my last state visit, and I’m just looking forward to it,” Wheeler said.

The Honor Flight Network, which includes more than 130 hubs nationwide, relies on donations to fund its missions, with the majority of funds going toward ight costs for veterans. For more details visit honor ight.org.

MEET THE CANDIDATES

The League of Women Voters of El Dorado County will host a forum with treasure-tax collector candidates Sean Coppola and Corey Leikauf, 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, at Placerville Town Hall, 549 Main St.

“A er that, I moved into public accounting. I worked at Eide Bailly, which is a regional accounting rm. They specialize in nancial institutions and local and state government. There, I audited state pension systems exceeding over $30 billion between two di erent states. Part of that is substantiating and checking for accuracy over investment portfolios,” he continued. “A er that, I moved to Deloitte and Touche. My primary focus there was working on auditing insurance companies and working on IPOs.”

While his career grew, Leikauf and his wife Klerisa started talking about growing their family and that discussion led them back to El Dorado County.

“We just missed family and ... made the decision to come back. Ultimately, I wanted to stay up the hill — I didn’t want to go down to Sacramento — so I started working for the AuditorController’s O ce.” He has worked there for more than three years.

As an administrative analyst II, Leikauf said he wears many hats, but primarily works with special districts, monitoring spending and budget activity. “I also have the ability to approve, review or decline expenditure claims from the special districts ... (and) work on approving and reviewing journal

opportunity to continue to serve ... to ensure that we progress responsibly into the future, and hopefully a future that our kids love as much as my ancée and I did growing up here.” Coppola replaced former TreasurerTax Collector Karen Coleman, who retired a er nearly seven years in the elected position. He was appointed on Dec. 2, 2025, by the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors to take the leadership role and serve out her term, which ends Jan. 2, 2027.

“Everything’s going fantastic. The transition went extremely well,” Coppola said. “It truly was a very easy transition, and the sta has all been very supportive.

“I think we’ve been very successful as an o ce,” he continued. “We’re on pace to bring in over $38 million of interest revenue for the year on our billion-dollar portfolio, which is fantastic. So it’s just been keeping the momentum going. We’ve been modernizing a lot of the county functions within our our o ce between the collection services, through the payment processing services that we provide. We’re looking to get some more implemented this summer.” If elected to a full, four-year term Coppola said he wants to keep the momentum going. “Our interest revenue is through the roof. Our investment strategy is obviously working,” he noted. “We’ve been developing it and ne-tuning it over the past couple of years and we’re getting it to a point where we’re really hitting our stride.”

The Treasurer-Tax Collector O ce’s

LAFCO has an open seat

■ New appointee will serve a four-year term News release

The El Dorado Local Agency Formation Commission is now accepting applications for its public member seat, to serve a new four-year term through May 2030. The commission will consider the appointment at its May 27 meeting.

The public member is a voting member of the commission, representing the interests of the taxpayercitizens of El Dorado County.

Applicants must be a resident and registered voter in El Dorado County and cannot be a city, special district or county o cial of any public agency within El Dorado County. Those seated on LAFCO are subject to the Fair Political Practices Commission and must le an annual con ict of interest statement.

Under state law, LAFCO is mandated to ensure the logical formation and determination of the local government agency boundaries, which a ect growth and development patterns, delivery of urban services and

agricultural and open space lands within El Dorado County. The commission meets on the fourth Wednesday of every other month ( rst Wednesday in December) in the Board of Supervisors meeting room at 330 Fair Lane, Placerville. LAFCO meetings are currently scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m.

If you wish to be considered for the Public Member position on LAFCO, the application form is posted on the LAFCO website at edlafco.us/publicmember-vacancy. If you have any questions call the LAFCO o ce at (530) 295-2707.

To be considered, applicants must be available to attend and interview at LAFCO’s meeting on May 27. The agenda will be posted approximately one week prior to the meeting at edlafco.us/2026-05-27-commissionmeeting. Refer to the agenda for the speci c start time. Submit applications to: lafco@edlafco.us El Dorado LAFCO

1190 Suncast Lane, Suite 11 El Dorado Hills, CA 95762

Signed applications must be received by May 18.

entries, speci cally with EDCOE, and those are very large journals.

“I have over a decade of professional experience relating to the eld,” he shared. “I think my broad nancial experience best suits me to lead.”

Leikauf shares a name with a well-known El Dorado County leader — his dad, Sheri Je Leikauf.

“I can understand maybe what some people would say,” the candidate admitted. “I am incredibly proud of my last name. I’m incredibly proud of what my dad has done as sheri ... but I’m running on my own merit.”

The younger Leikauf said he’s grateful for all the community support he has received and enjoys being on the campaign trail, o entimes educating voters about the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s O ce. The o ce’s primary responsibilities include oversight of the county’s banking and investments, along with tax collection activities.

Noting the o ce has only been challenged twice in the last 40 years, Leikauf said it’s important for voters to have options.

When he’s not digging post holes for campaign signs or handing out pamphlets, the candidate gives back to the community that has supported his family over the years, volunteering with the EDSO Thrive with 10-35 nonpro t organization and his church as well as at events hosted by the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians. He shared one of his favorite hobbies is to spend time with his wife and their two Boston terriers.

“We like to go gol ng. We’re not very good,” he admitted, “but, you know, it’s fun just to hang out.” Continued from A1

primary responsibilities include oversight of the county’s banking and investments, along with tax collection activities.

A self-professed “ nance nerd,” Coppola admitted, “I de nitely kind of geek out when it comes to nances and numbers.”

But, more importunately, he added, he enjoys his job because he gets to serve a community he loves and he works with an amazing team.

“We’re like a family,” Coppola said. “It’s important to have that enjoyment when you get into the o ce because happy folks are e cient. They work harder. They work better.

“At the end of the day, we’re here to ensure that the county and our residents are thriving and succeeding,” he continued. “I truly believe that I’m the best t for this job because I take that to heart and I know how to get the best out of each and every (sta member).”

Coppola served as the assistant treasurer-tax collector prior to his appointment to the top job. He studied at the University of Nevada, Reno, earning a bachelor’s degree in nance, and started his career as an accountant with a Folsom property management company, working his way up to controller. But the draw home was strong for Coppola and ancée Stephanie Silva, a middle school teacher. They moved back to El Dorado County, plan to stay and hopefully raise a family.

“We just want what’s best for our county, and we will always be here to help El Dorado County ... in any way we can,” he shared.

DECISION 2026

District 4 supervisor candidates share their goals

Noel Stack Editor

Gina Posey didn’t decide to run for District 4 supervisor on a whim. She knew last year.

“I became invested right then and there because I feel I represent my voters,” Posey said of her campaign. “And I know all politicians say that but I don’t like to think of myself as a politician. I think of myself as your neighbor.”

The 20-plus-year El Dorado County resident — all within District 4, she noted — has since attended pancake breakfasts, El Dorado County Board of Supervisors meetings and community events, and has spoken with potential constituents one on one. The top concern she said she has encountered on the campaign trail is struggles with a ordable homeowners insurance.

“I think it’s our No. 1 issue in the county, and we really need to do a lot more,” Posey said. “I understand as a supervisor I can’t x homeowners insurance. But ... our county can continue the work ... we provide for home hardening, defensible space work. We provide grants for our re safe councils to do mitigating of property, hazardous tree removal, free chipping programs, and we should continue that. We also have the O ce of Wild re Preparedness and Resilience, which is very important because that’s an umbrella organization now that has really led our state by bringing in BLM, the Forest Service and other agencies that all have something to do with re.”

Three years ago Posey championed the Sierrama Firewise Community of 66 homes. She’s also vice chair of the Greater Cameron Park Fire Safe Council.

“We need to ... be working closer with our legislators,” the candidate added. “I sent dra legislation to Assemblyman Patterson. I would like to see them break (up) homeowners insurance into regular re, which is usually the inside of your house out,

Noel Stack Editor

Having a long career in government at the local and state level, District 4 supervisor candidate Ted Gaines said he has the skills to best serve El Dorado County residents.

“I’ve been in politics a long time, right? But I also understand how it works ... and I’ve been able to develop contacts over a couple decades,” Gaines told the Mountain Democrat. “I know how to get stu done.”

Gaines and his wife Beth moved to El Dorado County about 11 years ago, settling rst in El Dorado Hills (where Beth ran for District 1 supervisor) and then building a home in Shingle Springs, where they’ve lived since 2020. His business Gaines Insurance is located in El Dorado Hills with his daughters at the helm.

Candidate Gaines has served in public o ce since 1997, starting with Roseville’s Planning Commission, 1997-99. In 2000, he was elected to the Placer County Board of Supervisors, where he held his seat for eight years. He then served in the State Legislature as an assemblyman and senator before joining the California Board of Equalization, rst elected in 2018 to represent District 1.

“I would like to get back to local government,” he shared. “You can have a real impact and you can see that impact. One thing that I’ve loved about public service is the aspect of serving constituents.

“I enter it with a servant’s heart,” he continued. “I’m a Christian, so I feel like how does God want me to use the talents I have and where can I use those most e ectively? And for whatever reason? Politics ... which is really kind of counterintuitive, but my hope is that I can make a di erence and help people.”

His approach starts with being a good steward of taxpayers’ money, Gaines noted, and supporting e orts to bring in more revenue.

Noel Stack Editor

Using the skills he has honed as a family law attorney, District 4 supervisor candidate Greg Clark said his approach to solving problems makes him the ideal candidate for the job.

“I deal with people who have different ideas about how their situation should play out and what that forces me to do is really deeply listen to what my client wants or, in this case, (what) this particular group of constituents wants,” Clark explained. “And then I listen to the other side as well and look for areas where we can reach agreements. Because it has been my experience that you can get a cascade — once you get one agreement you can get another one and you can get another one. Even though (District 4) communities all feel di erent to each other, I think that there’s really more that binds the people that live out there together than there are di erences.”

Top priorities for the former Camino School student and El Dorado High School graduate are the dovetailing issues of re safety and land use/development. “Size of communities, density, infrastructure — that’s all re related,” Clark noted. “My top issue in District 4 is ... making sure that our communities are ready for the possibility of a catastrophic re — hopefully well enough prepared that it just won’t happen.”

Clark also sees new opportunities in El Dorado County that will help bring in additional tax revenue and maintain its rural character, especially in District 4. Federal funding administered through the California Public Utilities Commission to set up highspeed broadband service to outlying communities will help residents “utilize this new internet infrastructure … to start their own businesses, sell their wares everywhere in the world and generate wealth,” Clark said.

“I would like to support (more)

Noel Stack Editor

Citing a need to eliminate barriers and cut out the cancer crippling El Dorado County’s prosperity, District 4

supervisor candidate Robert Deitz has a long list of issues he said he’s ready to tackle. At the top — identify and eliminate regulations impeding local businesses’ ability to operate and thrive.

“My No. 1 job … if I get elected into this position is to go in and nd what those regulations are, what we have and what we can cut back. No. 1 — that’s the rst day,” Deitz said. “(I’ll) talk to the department heads rst. See what they say. There could be resistance and pushback on that.

“Once we can gure out where that cancer is, what’s causing these businesses to close down — what can we do to get them up? Where are the problems? What kind of alliances can be put together?”

Deitz and his wife Wendy purchased property in the Coloma area in 1988 and nished building their home in the early ‘90s. The retired cyber-security company founder said his experience in the tech industry has well-prepared him to take on county politics.

“I’ve sat at the White House. I’ve sat at the state Capitol. I’ve gone through these processes,” he shared. “I’ve been to our county. I’ve been to the city of Placerville. I’m used to those egos and I welcome the opportunity.

“The core (experience) that I have matches, in my opinion, well with what our needs are,” Deitz continued. “Inequities in salaries, ine cient running of businesses, dealing with the political issues that we have, dealing with the egos that are in there — that’s what I learned. That’s what I did for 30 years. So that’s something that is … in my DNA.”

Getting into speci cs, Dietz noted the Board of Supervisors has to address the budget de cit and build up economic opportunities.

Gaines

“I look at some of the opportunities in El Dorado County. Ag tourism and tourism, in general, it’s a big revenue generator,” he said. “I want to make sure that we keep the marketing ... agri-tourism and tourism because we need that tax revenue. The last thing I would ever do is … put more burden on El Dorado County (residents). If we run the county right and ... we focus on prosperity, we ought to be able to create a good tax revenue base so we’re providing good services for folks and not asking them for more money.”

Gaines said he wants to maintain the county’s commitment to public safety — a major draw for potential residents — but also improve upon many county services.

“There’s a lot of potholes in the county ... so I’d like to see what we could do to try to bolster that,” he shared. “Again, you’ve got to have robust revenue in order to spend more money on roads.

Posey

as well as wild re, which is usually from the outside in — just like they do with ood and earthquake.”

Posey’s other priorities center around preserving El Dorado County’s

SHINGLE SPRINGS~CAMERON PARK Chamber of Commerce

“I’d like to see if there’s things that we could do in terms of parks,” Gaines continued. “I’ve always been a guy in favor of parks. If you have better roads and you’re providing good parks to folks, those are things that constituents desire and something that’s tangible that you can show in terms of what you’re trying to do.”

El Dorado County must support local businesses, he added.

“I’d like to encourage businesses to grow that are already here in the county, but also invite businesses to transact here and create a bigger tax base,” Gaines shared. “And I think that we’ve made it di cult.

I’ve talked to a lot of people that have tried to do business in the county, and I’ve heard a lot of stories where it’s just very, very tough. So how do we streamline that process?”

Going back to his time in the Legislature, Gaines said he thinks his experience working on both sides of the aisle will help him and

rural character, quality of life and history as well as shoring up the budget.

other county leaders come up with solutions.

“I want to be a good public servant and I come with sincerity and a sense of being earnest,” he said. Gaines said he’s spent a lot of time on the campaign listening to residents’ concerns, attending community events and hosting local meet-and-greets. He has chosen not to participate in debates with the other District 4 candidates.

“I feel like candidate forums can be actually unproductive and they can be just a lot of battling and barbs going back and forth,” he admitted. “I’d rather talk to people in a gathering or talk to people one-on-one.”

When not on the campaign trail, Gaines spends time with his wife, six adult children and 14 grandchildren. He enjoys skiing and hiking and has for the past 66 months kept up the tradition of an outdoor adventure each month with a longtime friend.

Rotary Club of Cameron Park, Women’s Fund El Dorado and the El Dorado County Farm Bureau. Posey said her involvement in the community comes from her gratitude.

“I feel that our county needs to return to being more scally conservative and with my experience, more than 27 years in business, I could really help make a di erence,” she shared. Posey retired to El Dorado County a er a career with Hewlett-Packard in the Bay Area.

Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce Supporting Local Business. Strengthening Community.

As we move into May, I am excited to share that the Shingle Springs/ Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce continues to grow in both membership and momentum.

Our Chamber is growing because we are focused on what matters most: advocating for our local business community, creating opportunities for meaningful connections, and providing real value to our members. Whether through networking events, educational opportunities, ribbon cuttings, community partnerships, or business promotion, our goal remains the same — to help our members be seen, supported, and successful. When local businesses are connected, our entire community becomes stronger. Every new member brings fresh energy, new ideas, and additional opportunities for collaboration. We are grateful for the businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders who continue to invest in the Chamber and believe in the importance of supporting local.

We invite you to join us for our May Networking After Hours Mixer on Thursday, May 7th, at Los Pinos Mexican Restaurant. This month’s mixer is hosted by Homes for Heroes Real Estate Brokers Colette and Michael Thiel of Thiel Real Estate & Property Management, along with their Homes for Heroes lender partner, Amber Jaurequi. Our AfterHours Mixers are a wonderful way to meet fellow business owners, build relationships, learn more about what is happening in our community, and enjoy an evening of connection in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

We also invite the community to attend our monthly Networking Luncheon, held on the 4th Thursday of each month at Koto Bu et at Red Hawk Casino. Our May luncheon is sponsored by Country Club Dental, and we are pleased to welcome Sean McCartney, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Western Slope, as our guest speaker. Our luncheons are open to everyone, with special member-only pricing available for Chamber members.

If you are a local business owner and have not yet joined the Chamber, now is a great time to get involved. We would love to welcome you, learn more about your business, and help you connect with others who are invested in the success of Shingle Springs, Cameron Park, and the surrounding communities.

Thank you to our members, ambassadors, board members, volunteers, and community partners who continue to support the work of the Chamber. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected business community.

Cole e Thiel , President

“We need to go back and reinvest in our history and our heritage. We need to reinvest in small businesses,” Posey continued. “We need to reinvest in residents being able to build an accessory dwelling unit, for example, on their property. The Vacation Home Rental Ordinance that was just put in place doesn’t make any sense for the west slope, and it really impedes people’s ability to continue to live on their land because they were using that supplemental income to help them be able to stay on their land.”

As a past member of the El Dorado County Grand Jury, Posey has

Forum

dived deep into many county issues and said she’s proud of her contributions, including grand jury reports that helped county employees during contract negotiations, strengthened the county’s Vegetation Management Ordinance and saved El Dorado Hills taxpayers money. She currently serves as the El Dorado Local Agency Formation Commission alternate public member. Posey said she’s a strong advocate for District 4, recently ensuring local high school students on the Divide were included in the Leadership for Tomorrow event. As a board member for the Shingle Springs Community Center, she chaired a capital campaign that raised $30,000 to update the facility’s bathrooms and ooring as well as other projects. Her résumé also includes involvement in several other community organizations and groups, including the Taxpayers Association of El Dorado County, Divide Chamber of Commerce,

rural character, listing light industrial, technology and healthcare services. He stressed the importance of following the voter-approved EDC General Plan and agreed with his fellow candidates that the county needs to do more to promote tourism.

About the district

District 4 includes the communities of Rescue, Cool, Pilot Hill, Garden Valley, Greenwood, Coloma, Lotus and the Georgetown Divide as well as parts of unincorporated Placerville, Shingle Springs, Cameron Park and El Dorado Hills. To nd your supervisor visit eldoradocounty.ca.gov/CountyGovernment/Board-of-Supervisors/ Find-Your-Supervisorial-District.

Watch the candidate forum on the League of Women Voters of El Dorado

without Mrs. Slinger.”

Since then, Natalie was named head of publicity at the school, and the newscast will live on a er she graduates.

Natalie has been a member of Girl Scout Troop 240 for 13 years, since kindergarten at Lake Forest Elementary. She said her best memory will be the friends she met along the way.

“Some girls may not be in the Troop anymore, or we may not talk as much

“When I go to Folsom ... and I’m coming (back) over the hill, I can just breathe. I can feel the tension go away,” she explained. “I see the Sierra and I’m just so, so thankful that this is where I live. And I want to protect that.

“I do not believe that massive subdivisions are a pro t center. I have not seen any data to say that,” Posey continued.

“Instead, for me, we need to reinvest back into what makes El Dorado County great and unique, and that is our history, our heritage, our small businesses, our agriculture.

“My goals are very straightforward — to do my very best on behalf of the residents,” she added. “I’m going to listen ... And I will do my absolute very best to work extremely hard.”

Continued from A7

County’s YouTube page: youtube. com/@leagueofwomenvotersofeldor7159/featured.

Ballots in the mail

On May 4, the El Dorado County Elections Department mailed ballots to all active, registered voters and ballot drop boxes opened. May 18 is the last day to register to vote to receive a voteby-mail ballot. May 23 11-day vote centers will open and on May 30, fourday vote centers will open. Residents can register to vote, drop o their ballots or vote in person at the vote centers. Election Day is June 2. All vote centers will open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Drop boxes will be locked at 8 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.ca.gov/Elections.

these days, but whenever I see them at school or think of them, there is a so spot because of Girl Scouts,” she shared.

This August Natalie will attend the University of Utah to major in human development and family relations. All current Girl Scout Gold Award recipients in the region will be recognized during a ceremony at California State University, Sacramento, on May 16.

Online Auction will support Animal Outreach’s expansion project, helping the organization continue providing a ordable veterinary care, rescue services and shelter support for animals throughout the community and beyond.

Community members can view the auction and place bids beginning May 9 at givebutter.com/c/thepaw-brigade/auction.

Auction highlights include original pet-inspired artwork from local artists and juried awards for rst, second and third place, as well as honorable mention. Animal Outreach will also share updates during the reception about its new location and renovation project, which will expand the organization’s ability to serve animals and pet owners.

About Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode is a nonpro t organization providing a ordable veterinary care, spay and neuter services, and rescue and adoption programs to help animals and the people who care for them.

Make a Mother’s Day Coupon Book for Gifts of Time from you!

You don’t have to spend money to tell mom how much you love her on Mother’s Day. The most precious gift for her is your time.

Create a a special Mother’s Day gift for your mom, aunt, stepmother, grandmother or other special woman you know. Follow the easy instructions below and then work on the activities together.

Cut out each coupon.

Paste the coupons on a large piece of construction paper.

Add photographs and/or draw a picture of you and your mom doing something together. Or, write a paragraph about a special memory the two of you share.

Present your gift and watch your mom smile!

Luis wants to buy his mother some flowers. He has $1.00. Use the puzzle to figure out what each of the flowers costs. Then select some flowers that Luis can buy to make his mother a bouquet.

Look through the newspaper for five or more adjectives that describe your mom (or a special lady in your life). Use these to write a poem or paragraph about her.

coupon is good for me cleaning my room without being asked. This coupon good for one breakfast in bed prepared by me. (I’ll clean up the mess in the kitchen, too!)

“TRASH TALK”

El Dorado Disposal Newsletter - Spring ‘26 Edition

Fresh Strategies for a New Season

As spring arrives, it’s a perfect time to refresh solid waste habits and prepare for seasonal cleanups. Proper organics disposal such as separating food scraps, yard trimmings, and other compostable materials help reduce landfill volume while supporting healthier soils through composting programs. This season also brings unique items like old outdoor furniture, pool chemicals, and other various items that may have been kicking around the yard for a while, that require correct disposal or recycling. Knowing in advance what items are and aren’t recyclable saves time at the disposal facility, reduces contamination in recycling loads, and ensures more materials are successfully recovered. A little preparation goes a long way toward a cleaner community and a more efficient waste management system.

From Your Curb to Our Community

Everything you place in your organics waste cart, from food scraps and coffee grounds to grass clippings and leaves, starts the process of creating organic compost. The organic waste that is collected from residents and businesses alike in El Dorado County is transferred, processed, and ultimately brought full circle back into the County as certified organic compost. The compost is then used by local farmers and even personal home gardeners, representing a sustainable, circular cycle.

Throughout the 2025 calendar year, we were able to deliver organic compost to local vineyards, schools, and residents, including Barsotti Inc., Madrona Vineyards, and Garden Valley High School to name a few. In total, over 3,000 tons of organic compost was brought back to the community over the course of the year. By using your organics cart correctly, you can help decrease landfill use and create valuable, nutritional compost for our community.

Customer Reviews:

“The El Dorado Disposal compost program has made it possible for us to get organic compost on all of our farm soil, including our fruit trees and strawberries, this year. Communication, site visits, and delivery have been easy and consistent. We’ve used compost from several large suppliers over the years and I’m happy with the quality of compost coming out of the El Dorado Disposal Program. I’m seeing good plant growth already.”

- Ben Woods, Mama Earth Farm

“We are so grateful for the compost donation to our FFA/Farm to Fork program. It’s very difficult to find funding for garden maintenance and El Dorado Disposal’s support is highly appreciated! The fact that it was delivered to us is also amazing! The compost is helping us amend our soil and we are looking forward to a productive growing season!”

- Amara, Golden Sierra JSHS

Clean Smarter This Spring: Safe & Responsible Disposal Tips

As you clean out garages,sheds,and storage areas this spring,it’s important to remember that although it’s tempting, not everything should be tossed in the trash container. Items such as pool chemicals, pesticides, insecticides, old cleaners, paints, batteries, and automotive fluids should immediately be set aside from regular household waste. The listed items and products are considered hazardous materials and should be disposed of in a specific manner. Residential household hazardous wastes can be brought to our Material Recovery Facility located at 4100 Throwita Way, Placerville and disposed of for FREE on Friday through Sunday. Our Household hazardous waste facility accepts a wide range of materials from florescent bulbs to everyday cleaning products, and proper disposal is crucial.

Why Organics Can Be Confusing: What’s

Commonly Misunderstood

Many people want to “do the right thing” when it comes to organics recycling, but confusion remains common. So why does confusion happen in the first place? The three main reasons we have found are 1. “Natural-Looking” Doesn’t Always Mean Compostable, 2. Packaging Labels Can Be Misleading, and 3. Paper Rules Change When Food Is Involved. Items made from plastic or synthetic materials like plant pots, netting, or gardening fabric are common contaminants found in the organics cart that belong in the trash cart. Words like biodegradable, eco, or compostable do not always mean an item should be placed in the curbside organics cart. Many compost facilities cannot process compostable plastics or specialty materials regardless of what the packaging states. Lastly, people are often taught that cardboard and paper go in the recycling, so when paper gets greasy or wet, they assume it must be trash. In reality, food-soiled paper belongs in the organics cart, not recycling or trash. Food residue disqualifies items like pizza boxes, napkins, paper towels, paper plates and paper bags from recycling but makes them perfect for composting. A simple way to think about it is, did this come from food or plants and is it free of plastic? If yes, toss it in the organics cart. If plastic, synthetic, or treated, keep it out.

The Gift of Kids, Inc.

Jennifer Tommasini

5130 Golden Foothill Parkway

El Dorado Hills

916-521-1835 • www.thegiftofkids.net 2nd Location

5041 Robert J. Mathews Pkwy., Suite 200 El Dorado Hills

I would like to thank everyone entrusting us with your precious children since 1999. I love being part of this community and helping children learn and grow. With 4 children of my own (now 27, 24, 15 and 14), my own journey began in the daycare preschool eld because I was unhappy with the care and education I was receiving.

I have been blessed to have a large facility in El Dorado Hills where I employ 50 loving teachers and care for 300 children. We offer education and care for babies, Preschoolers, Pre-K, and private Kindergarten, before and after school. Don’t be fooled by our large size, our teachers make each classroom homey and warm. The kids have lots of outdoor space

to play, we are on over an acre and have 4 large playgrounds, a soccer eld, and an organic garden.

The Gift of Kids outdoor area gives the kids space to explore, garden, and play on age appropriate playgrounds.

The teachers at The Gift of Kids Daycare and Preschool include talent that brings us music, yoga, and even Spanish on a daily basis. We have been working with soccer shots for over 7 years and have a very structured and advanced curriculum! Teachers here are all educated in child development, CPR and First Aid certi ed, and make it a priority to continue their education. The Gift of Kids Inc. is celebrating 26 years in

business, with 16 years in our same location, Business Park 1. We could not have done it without the many wonderful families here in the community that I have called home for over 20 years! Again...Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me live out my dream in a business that I love and families that continue to bless us with their children. We have newly renovated the inside of our school, so come by to check it out and say hello anytime!

V illage H OMES

Lisa Paragary CalBRE #01196924 (916) 247-1303 lisa@paragary-millerteam.com.

3021 Waterman Court, El Dorado Hills

4,143 square feet

4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms 0.3-acre property

Listed at $1,200,000 MLS #226040176

Expansive home an entertainer’s retreat

This sprawling estate is nestled in a quiet culde-sac in the heart of El Dorado Hills.

The exceptional home blends farmhouse-style charm with modern luxury, featuring fresh interior paint, new designer lighting and rich hardwood oors throughout.

The open oor plan is designed for e ortless living, o ering a main oor that includes a massive primary suite with backyard access. The primary retreat is a true sanctuary; its bathroom has been completely reimagined with natural stone, quartz counters, a soaking tub and a luxurious spa-inspired steam shower, complemented by a large walk-in closet.

The heart of the home features a dramatic, natural-stone replace and an elegant stone entryway, while the gourmet kitchen shines with updated stainless appliances, including a brand-new dishwasher and beverage refrigerator, and white quartz countertops. Storage is abundant, particularly in the huge dining room lined with custom built-ins.

The rst oor’s living space allows residents and guests to spread out and enjoy the warmth of the replaces and the

natural light shining through the beautiful windows. Practicality meets style with multiple home o ce areas, an indoor laundry room, and a large garage. The rst oor also features a second bedroom served by two full baths.

Upstairs, discover two additional ensuite bedrooms, an open lo and a private balcony that overlooks the gorgeous backyard..

Step into the private outdoor oasis through the secondary family room to nd a resortstyle backyard. This entertainer’s dream features a natural rock grotto-style swimming pool with a built-in spa and a comprehensive covered outdoor kitchen equipped with a built-in barbecue, beer tap and refrigerator. The large outdoor patio is perfect for dining al fresco. The property also showcases new arti cial turf in the front and rear, and is rounded out with a separate storage/workshop, newer HVAC and owned solar for maximum e ciency.

Interested in this Waterman Court property in El Dorado Hills? Contact Lisa Paragary at (916) 247-1303 or lisa@ paragarymillerteam.com.

A future for culture at Murer House

“Chi trova un amico trova un tesoro.”

Who nds a friend nds a treasure.

A»

t the Murer House, that treasure is easy to nd. It lives in shared meals, new friendships and the joy of learning. Now, the Murer House Foundation invites the community to help build something more. A new learning center is on the way.

Roots that built our region

towns. There is no limit on lifetime learning here.

Where strangers become friends

Spend a little time at Murer House, and you will see how quickly people connect. You do not need to be Italian or of Italian heritage to take part. Many who attend simply share a love of Italian culture. It draws people together from across the country and from around the world.

In language classes, classmates smile as they practice new words and phrases, helping each other along. Friendships form with ease.

Sometimes someone brings a charcuterie board to share. It does not happen every time, but it is always memorable.

At the turn of the last century, Italian families came to the tri-county area with strong values and a love of the land. They joined other pioneer families. Gold miners, ranchers, farmers, railroaders and merchants all played a role. Together, they built the foundation of the communities we know today.

The Murer House, built in 1925 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, re ects that shared history. It tells a story of hard work, family and tradition. Today, it also serves as the major regional center for Italian language learning in the eastern Sacramento Valley. Students of all ages come from Placerville, Sacramento, Elk Grove, Roseville and nearby

Betty Albert News release

FOLSOM — The Murer House Foundation invites the community to experience the thrill, avor and charm of Italy at the 13th annual Italy on Wheels on Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 1125 Joe Murer Court in historical Folsom. This lively, familyfriendly event showcases an eye-catching collection of Italian cars, motorcycles, scooters and bicycles — ranging from timeless classics to modern marvels. With more than 300 attendees each year, Italy on Wheels o ers something for everyone — whether you’re a serious auto enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and

Cooking classes add even more joy. Many instructors are nativeborn Italians who now call this region home. You might shape Sicilian arancini made with risotto. Expect a few sticky hands. Or you may layer a rich tiramisu. There is laughter and plenty of taste testing. Outside, the experience continues. Try the outdoor pizza oven. Join a bocce game. Stroll through the gardens. Volunteers, o en with the Folsom Garden Club, care for the trees and seasonal plantings rst tended by Giuseppe Murer.

Take a home tour and step back in time. Every corner has a story. This is not just a place

Many students dream of travel to Bel’ Italia. They want to speak the language and connect with people along the way. Others come a er a trip. They are not ready for the experience to end, so they keep it alive here at home.

Italy on Wheels showcases Italian style

COLD MAGIC, WARM HEARTS

Andrew Vonderschmitt

The stage musical “Frozen,” now playing at Ponderosa High School, transforms the familiar story of Anna and Elsa into a student-driven production lled with ambition, long rehearsal nights and a strong sense of community.

Based on the 2013 animated lm, the stage adaptation features music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and a book by Jennifer Lee. Since its 2018 Broadway debut, the show has become a staple for school and community theater programs, blending wellknown songs with new material while exploring themes of sisterhood, acceptance and love.

Set in the ctional kingdom of Arendelle, the story follows sisters Anna and Elsa as they navigate isolation and identity. When an eternal winter falls over the land, Anna sets out to nd her sister with the help of Kristo , Sven and Olaf, leading to a journey that balances spectacle with emotional depth. At Ponderosa, that story comes to life through a cast and crew of students, each bringing their own perspective — and challenges — to the production.

Leading the “chaos”

For senior Grace Manfredi, the magic of theater doesn’t happen under the spotlight — it happens just out of sight.

A er trying nearly every role in the program, Manfredi has settled into stage management, where she oversees the moving pieces that keep the production run-

ning.

“I’ve done it all. I’ve been on stage, and I started in tech, and then I went acting and now I’m stage managing,” Manfredi said. “It’s like having so many responsibilities and being able to delegate.”

What began as organizing applications quickly turned into coordinating major elements of the show, from set construction to assigning responsibilities for props and house management. She now leads a crew of about eight students.

Despite the workload, Manfredi prefers the fast-paced environment backstage.

“I just have more fun running around making sure things are done,” she said. “I like doing improv, it’s fun, but I just like [stage managing] more.”

A place on stage

Junior Ben Oehler returns to the stage as Kristo , marking his fourth production at Ponderosa.

“This will be my fourth show,” Oehler said. “I was in ‘Shrek the Musical’ my freshman year. I was in ‘Beetlejuice the Musical’ my sophomore year, and I was in ‘Peter and the Starcatcher.’”

For Oehler, theater has become more than a hobby — it’s a community.

“I enjoy performing, and I enjoy the thrill of it, and I also enjoy the community of theater,” he said. “I think it gives people a sense of belonging and home.”

That sense of belonging wasn’t immediate. Oehler said he was initially hesitant to join theater before being encour-

aged to try it.

“From there, that was where I discovered the community,” he said. “And I think in high school, it can be quite challenging to nd a place.”

Playing Kristo has pushed him in new ways. Unlike more exaggerated roles he has played in the past, Kristo requires subtlety.

“I think it can be harder to act normal than it is to be over the top for me,” Oehler said. “So it’s been challenging to be a normal guy, but not myself.”

Oehler plans to keep theater in his life.

“I do intend to pursue it as a hobby,” he said. “I think I’ll continue to pursue the sense of community.”

A dream role

For freshman Adilynn Seeley, stepping into the role of Anna is the fulllment of a long-held ambition.

“This has been like a dream of mine,” Seeley said. “Anna has always been my favorite princess. And I’m really happy and excited for the show.”

Seeley describes Anna as energetic and optimistic — traits she sees in herself. Her experience spans multiple local theater programs, including roles in “Beauty and the Beast” and “Matilda.”

She began performing in third grade, inspired by her older sister, and quickly found a sense of

Sprinklers Repair • Drip Systems Fence Repair • Clean Ups • & Hauling

(530) 558-0072 • (530) 409-0136 2014Rod.F@gmail.com

Announcements

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 334-2970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com

PLAY CRIBBAGE

Join the Gold Country CribbersWe Play - We Teach - We Have Fun Wednesdays 4:00 PM, Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA, 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB: Come play tennis for fitness, fun & friendship. Meet at El Dorado HS tennis courts on Acacia St., Placerville, Wednesdays 9-11 except June -August, hours 9-11. Social activities & monthly tennis clinics. Some tennis ability required. Call Trisha 530-651-8121.

Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA), for the CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on March 16, May 18, July 20, September 21, and November 16, 2026. The location is at the Denny’s Restaurant, 3446 Coach Lane in Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for information and programs.

DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530) 503-7400 or see edcdems.org for more information.

Do you have an announcement that you would like to include here? Contact Elizabeth Hansen (530) 344-5028 or ehansen@mtdemocrat.net

GROW FOR IT!

Don’t plant a pest

Pests in the garden are not always creepy crawlers, they can also be plants and some are very attractive. However, attractiveness does not always mean good and you may be surprised to learn that some plants in your landscape should not be present at all. The California Invasive Plant Council is a nonprofit organization with the mission to protect California’s environment and economy from invasive plants. It was established in 1992 to address environmental threats from invasive

plants, which it defines as plants not native to an environment that, once introduced, establish quickly, reproduce freely and spread widely. Its website, cal-ipc.org, has a very comprehensive inventory of plants that are already considered to be invasive or are to be watched because of their potential for being invasive.

I think everyone is aware that Scotch Broom, Cytisus scoparius, and Yellow Starthistle, Centaureasolstitialis, are highly invasive plants, as is Tree of Heaven, Ailanthus altissima. But did you also know that

English Ivy, Hedera helix and Mexican Feather Grass, Nassellatenuissima, are on Cal-IPC’s list of invasive plants? I frequently see Mexican Feather Grass in various landscapes, but this is an extremely vigorous plant and will spread quickly out of its designated place in a garden by freely reseeding just about everywhere. English Ivy is also still frequently planted, but this vigorous groundcover will grow up walls and trees, ruining building exteriors and choking the life out of trees. It is also a notorious hideout for snakes and rodents. Pampas Grass, Cortaderia selloana is another no-no to plant because of its very vigorous growth habit and wind-driven seed dispersal of up to 20 miles from the parent plant. Another very good resource for learning about invasive plants and noxious weeds can be found at ipm.ucanr.edu/ PMG/PESTNOTES/ pn74139.html/ There are good alternatives to invasive plants and some of these can be found at plantright.org.

What can an individual do to help decrease the number of invasive plants? First, educate yourself by researching a plant’s characteristics before you put it in your garden. Then, share information about invasive plants with family, friends and neighbors. Finally, if you see an invasive plant being offered at a nursery or other businesses where plants are sold, politely talk to the personnel who do the buying; they may not be aware that a plant is on the invasive list and I bet would welcome the information. We can all do a small part to help decrease the number of these invasive plants. For more information about UC Master Gardener classes, events and resources visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu. Also available on the website are the hours and activity details for the Sherwood Demonstration Garden: ucanr.edu/sites/ EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden. Have a gardening question? Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website or call (530) 6215512.

Community festival planned for animal lovers near Lake Natoma

Animal lovers across Northern California are invited to gather for Izzy’s Animal Rescue Festival, a mustsee event celebrating rescue, compassion and community. The festival will take place on Sunday, May 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the picturesque and historical Black Miner’s Bar State Park on Lake Natoma. This event is dedicated to loving, protecting and learning about furry and feathered friends. Visitors can discover how to make a difference in the lives of both domestic and wild animals by meeting real animals and connecting

with organizations committed to rescuing, adopting, rehabilitating and sheltering those in need.

The festival is held in loving memory of Izzy Cassio (1996–2022) — a passionate animal lover and devoted volunteer whose kindness and compassion continue to inspire others.

Attendees can look forward to:

• Inspiring and educational animal presentations

• Wildlife and domestic animal exhibits

• Adoptable pets searching for their forever homes

• Live music and entertainment

• Local food vendors and more Share

A dentistry that aims to be a home away from home

Jessica Cyphers Staff writer

For patients of Dale Stanec, Jr., DDS, going to the dentist feels a little like going home.

“We know all of our patients. They’re our friends,” said Dr. Stanec, who works alongside his wife and office manager, Elena, in his Cameron Park office. “The experience in our office is very personal. We’re very small and greet each patient by name when they walk in. It’s a comfortable, homey place to have dental work done, and we like it that way.”

Dr. Stanec has been in dentistry in the Cameron Park area since 2002. As a kid, he was “always into science and math” and loved the idea of owning his own business. “I ran a lawn-mowing business as a kid — always had some kind of business going — so becoming a dentist and owning my own practice just made sense,” said Dr. Stanec. Dr. Stanec did his undergraduate work at Cal Poly,

San Luis Obispo and then attended dental school at Northwestern University in Chicago. He graduated from Northwestern in 2001 and says that, although he was born and raised in San Jose, it was a natural draw to open his practice in the foothills. “Elena and I love this area. We had a lot of family and friends here and thought it would be a great place to raise our kids.”

In his office, Dr. Stanec offers a full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry with expertise ranging from porcelain veneers and dental implants to crowns and bridges and more. Unlike many other dentists, Dr. Stanec doesn’t employ dental hygienists or other technicians but does all of his dental work himself.

“I spend a lot of one-on-one time with my patients. It’s fun for me to do the work myself because I get to spend more time with my patients and hang out with them and really get to know them. It makes it fun to do what I do,” said Dr. Stanec.

Another advantage of keeping his practice small is that, because he sees every patient one at a time, Dr. Stanec can be very thorough and immediately answer any questions that come up. He is also able to really respect his patients’ time. “I am almost always early or on time,” said Dr. Stanec. “My patients know that, so they’re usually early or on time for their appointments, too. It’s a win win for everyone.”

Dr. Stanec is located at 3955 Cameron Park Drive — in Cameron Park. His office is right near the Goldorado Shopping Center, directly across from the new Walgreens on Palmer Drive, and is very conveniently located for all of his patients. The move is just one more way Dr. Stanec shows his commitment to providing the best possible care for his patients.

“I look forward to going to work and getting to see who’s on the schedule every day,” said Dr. Stanec.

Restoring nature’s balance with the Native Plant Society

Kathleen

Barco California Native Plant Society, El Dorado

Imagine, if you will, that we — and nature — have the information and ability needed to heal the Earth we walk on every day. The El Dorado Chapter of the California Native Plant Society is on a mission to awaken a deeper understanding of native plants and the vital role they play in sustaining life. The group aims to shift how people see and live with nature, recognizing that native habitat is not just beautiful but essential.

The chapter is hosting two speakers who share its mission on Saturday, May 9, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Cameron Park Community Center. The organization’s goal is to mobilize individuals to take responsibility for restoring what has been lost and protecting what remains. By revealing the connections between native plants, wildlife and people, the speakers will show how even small, everyday choices can help rebuild thriving ecosystems. What’s been lost didn’t happen all at once; it happened through everyday choices — and it can be rebuilt the same way.

Through their distinct approaches, the two experts aim to transform awareness into action, equipping people with the understanding, inspiration and courage to protect, restore and reimagine native habitat in their own community.

Renee Murphy is an international

keynote speaker and two-time TEDx presenter known as @midlifefarmgirl.

As communities look for solutions to environmental challenges, educators and environmental scientists like Murphy are finding that the answers are often already present in the natural world. The opportunity lies in learning how to observe these systems and redesign human practices around them. Beneath our feet, plants and soil microbes form partnerships that detoxify polluted soil, rebuild biodiversity and regenerate living systems. Nature already knows how to restore balance.

Jessie Dickson is a botanist and digital creator known as SacramentoFoodForest.

Grassroots advocates like Dickson are mobilizing communities across California to protect native plants and open spaces. His work demonstrates how community engagement, digital storytelling and hands-on restoration can inspire a new generation of environmental stewards.

Together, they connect restoration science with real-world action, showing how protecting biodiversity begins both under and above ground in local communities.

Come ready to learn. Leave ready to grow the change.

The event, “The Underground Revolution: Restoring Nature’s Balance,” will be held May 9, from 10 a.m. to noon. Doors open at 9:45 a.m. at the Cameron Park Community

area

to

Sacramento.

Sacramento History Museum hosts baseball-themed exhibit

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

SACRAMENTO — Coinciding with a new season of baseball now under way in the Capital City, the Sacramento History Museum is excited to present an all-new Play Ball! Sacramento in the National Pastime, now open.

Located in the R. Burnett & Mimi Glide Miller Gallery in the museum, the exhibition is filled with historical baseball uniforms, bats, balls, and gloves from different time periods, along with programs, tickets, awards and trophies, an Edmonds field base, home plate and ticket box, along with scrapbooks, news articles, photos and more.

Play Ball! tells the fascinating and fun story of Sacramento’s 175-year baseball history, stretching from the early days of the Gold Rush to the latest inning at Sutter Health Park just across the Sacramento River. Showcased in the exhibit are unique chapters such as the Cincinnati Red Stockings that arrived

via the new Transcontinental Railroad to trounce the local nine, baseball under the lights years before the Major Leagues electrified their stadiums and a stadium named for a young sports editor who died after rallying to keep baseball in town. The exhibit demonstrates Sacramento’s past and present as a baseball-crazed region alive with youth leagues of every kind, including Chinese, Mexican and JapaneseAmerican baseball, Negro League tribute games, high school and college heroes and Major Leaguers by the dozens.

The Play Ball! Sacramento in the National Pastime exhibit will remain on display through Oct. 18, 2026. Located at 101 I St. at the Old Sacramento Waterfront, the Sacramento History Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day). For more information about Play Ball!, other exhibits and programs offered by the Sacramento History Museum visit sachistorymuseum.org.

Folsom Lake Symphony

News release

The tradition continues! Get your cozy spot on the green, join in honoring the armed forces and tap your toes to popular upbeat selections during the Folsom Lak Symphony’s Twilight Delight. The program includes “Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters,” themes from “Silverado,” “Raiders March” from “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” the Best of the Beatles medley, six service songs and more.

This free outdoor concert will take place at the Zittel Family Amphitheater in the Folsom Historic District. 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 16. Seating area opens at 6 p.m. Bring your own chairs (full size chairs recommended). No tickets are required for entry. Wine and bottled water will be available for sale. Please, no outside alcohol.

Amphitheater space is on a first come, first serve basis. If the amphitheater is full, you can still have an enjoyable evening listening to the symphony outside the amphitheater.

The amphitheater is located at 200 Wool St., Folsom. Park at the adjacent parking garage at 905 Leidesdorff St. There is a $5 donation for parking which goes toward this and future events produced by the Folsom Historic District Association. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony. com.

Trojan athletes nab SFL trophy

U.S. Marines awarded Male and Female Athlete of the Year

Former Trojan earns the honor

Cpl. Noah Martinez Defense Visual Information Distribution Services

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. —

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Landon Nagao, a UH-1Y pilot with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, Marine Aircra Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircra Wing and Sgt. Stephanie Evtodi, a maintenance management specialist with 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd MAW were named Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton’s Male and Female Athletes of the Year for 2025, recognizing their sustained excellence in competitive athletics while serving on active duty.

The award highlights Marines who demonstrate superior performance in their respective sports while maintaining the standards and responsibilities required of military service, re ecting discipline, commitment and resilience.

Nagao, a native of El Dorado Hills, began his athletic career in gymnastics before transitioning to obstacle course competition at the national level.

A er earning a Naval Reserve O cer Training Corps scholarship to the University of California, Davis, he was commissioned in 2017 and has since balanced his duties as a Marine aviator with elite-level competition.

“Being named Camp Pendleton’s

Marine Athlete of the Year is both an honor and a recognition I’m deeply grateful for,” Nagao said. “It re ects years of dedication to both my role as a Marine and my time competing in Ninja Warrior.”

Nagao has competed across multiple seasons of American Ninja Warrior, steadily improving his performance and qualifying for national level nals in both the United Ninja Athlete Association and National Ninja League circuits. In 2024, he achieved his best result to date, advancing to the seminals and nishing 22nd overall.

In 2025, he continued that momentum, earning top ve nishes in all United Ninja Athlete Association competitions he entered and qualifying for the World Championship nals.

Juggling operational demands with competition has remained a consistent challenge throughout his career.

“Balancing my military responsibilities with opportunities to compete … has been challenging,” Nagao said.

“Over time, I’ve become more proactive by coordinating with my squadron and working with the show’s producers, allowing me to manage both commitments e ectively.”

Evtodi, a native of Ontario, Canada, began playing rugby at a young age and quickly developed into a competitive athlete, earning early recognition and

to visit. It is a place to belong.

Campaign for the future

As these programs grow, so does the need for space. The current learning center can no longer keep up.

The Murer House Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonpro t that relies on community support, volunteers and business partners to carry out its mission. That mission is simple and meaningful. Preserve the historical home, gardens and museum. Share Italian culture. Teach language and cooking. Bring people together.

House in Folsom o ers a special night out. Guests will enjoy a ne meal, ra es and a silent auction. All proceeds support the new center.

Tickets are $175 and available at the Murer House Foundation website, murerhousefoundation.org. If you cannot attend, donations are welcome. For details email Infomurerhouse@gmail. com or call (916) 423-9231.

Treasure worth sharing

The foundation has launched a capital campaign to build a new learning center. Plans include larger classrooms, a commercial kitchen and better space for sta and volunteers.

This e ort will expand classes and events. It will welcome more people and strengthen community ties.

Season full of reasons to visit

There are many ways to enjoy the Murer House in the coming months and year-round. Lavender Day and Camellia Day bring the gardens to life. Bocce tournaments o er friendly fun. Italy on Wheels 2026 adds cars, culture and conversation.

An evening to support the future

On June 25, the Festa & learning center Fundraising Dinner at Bacchus

Awards

competing at elevated levels throughout her youth and high school career.

While assigned to Camp Pendleton, she served as the starting fullback and kicker for the West Coast Marines Women’s Rugby team.

In 2025, she helped lead the team to a Southern California Rugby Football Union Division II championship and was selected as team captain during the summer season, guiding the team to a Wine Country 10s Rugby Festival title while nishing as one of its top scorers.

Her performance earned her selection to the All-Marine Corps Women’s Rugby Team, where she competed at the All-Armed Forces level in her rst year as a starter.

Evtodi credits her success to discipline and the direct connection between her sport and her role as a Marine.

“Rugby is built on toughness, discipline and teamwork, the same values we live every day as Marines,” Evtodi said. In addition to competing at the Marine Corps level, she has continued

belonging in theater.

“I just feel like the community, like everyone’s so supportive of everyone,” she said. “They’re always just so welcoming. And I feel like you can just truly be yourself in the theater.”

Elsa’s shoes

Freshman Sage Downey didn’t expect to land one of the show’s most iconic roles — but she embraced the opportunity.

“I was actually really surprised,” Downey said. “I knew they were doing ‘Frozen,’ and I was really scared… even though I really like Elsa.”

Having previously performed in the show, Downey brought experience to the role, but still found new layers in Elsa’s emotional journey.

“She’s just, like, really inspiring,” Downey said. “She’s kind of a girl boss … I love that she’s also really emotional, and that’s just really fun to play.”

Musical theater, she said, allows her to fully express those emotions.

“I feel like when I sing, it brings out more of my acting,” she said. “It’s so much easier and so much more fun to show emotion when I get to sing in it.”

O stage, Downey says she is very different from Elsa, which makes the role even more compelling.

“I like to think I’m a very fun person, a very energetic person,” she said. “And she’s just constantly very scared… which is kind of why it’s really fun playing her role.”

At Murer House, the treasure lives in simple moments. A shared meal. A new phrase. A game under the trees. A story passed on. The new learning center is not just about the past. It serves the present and builds the future.

Every age nds hands-on learning. Teachers gain a living classroom. Garden and art lovers nd beauty and calm. Community leaders and philanthropists support something that lasts. Italy helped shape Western civilization long before the rest of Europe developed. Think of the Romans. The Etruscans before them. The Greeks, and many others, who settled in Sicily. That in uence lives on today. With a new learning center, there will be more room for it all here at home. More classes. More gatherings. More friendships. Where we learn together, we grow together.Insieme si cresce. And that is a treasure worth sharing. Send your event for consideration in Susan’s column to slaird@handywriting.com.

to expand her experience through high tempo tournament play and opportunities with outside club teams, further developing her performance against top competition.

She now competes for the Temecula Mountain Lions to further develop her rugby career.

She also emphasized the importance of maintaining perspective while balancing the demands of service and athletics.

“The mission comes rst, and staying committed long-term matters more than any single event,” Evtodi said. Both Marines’ achievements re ect a shared commitment to excellence, demonstrating the ability to perform at a high level while meeting the demands of military service.

Their recognition as Camp Pendleton’s Athletes of the Year underscores the Marine Corps’ emphasis on physical tness, perseverance and the pursuit of excellence both on and o duty. Continued from

Bringing Olaf to life

Junior Ben Phelps takes on the role of Olaf, the cheerful snowman known for his humor and optimism.

“He’s really optimistic in ways you wouldn’t think,” Phelps said. “He’s super excited to just be wherever, and he just loves people.”

Phelps relates to Olaf’s outlook, even as he navigates his own uncertainties about pursuing acting.

“I try to be really optimistic,” he said. “I would like to go into acting, but I’m a little afraid of what that’s actually going to be like.”

The role presents technical challenges, including working with a puppet and singing at the top of his vocal range. Still, Phelps enjoys the creative freedom Olaf allows.

“He kind of can do a lot of his own stu sometimes,” he said. “I really like improv and he gets to do a lot of it.”

A collective e ort

“Frozen” runs through May 9 with evening performances Thursdays through Saturdays and Saturday matinees. But beyond the performance schedule, the production re ects something deeper for the students involved. From backstage leadership to onstage breakthroughs, the show represents growth, collaboration and the power of storytelling — values that extend far beyond Arendelle. For tickets and more information visit pondodrama.com.

Friday May 8th

Stravaig: SF Scottish Fiddlers Spring Concerts @ 7pm / $44.52 SF Scottish Fiddlers Stra‐vaig Spring Concerts. A musical adventure with more than 90 musicians on �ddles, cellos, guitars and more in a spirited per‐formance of music from Scotland and beyond. Vet‐erans Memorial Theatre, 277 East 14th Street, Davis. karinconn4@ gmail.com, 415-902-5800

Algiin Ford presents "Silent Assassin (My Addictive Mind)" @ 7:30pm / $25

Algiin Ford presents "Silent Assas‐sin (My Addictive Mind)" at the San Francisco international Arts Festi‐val Theatre of Yugen at NOHspace, 2840 Mariposa Street, San Fran‐cisco. andrew@s�af.org, 415-3051102

Urban Sketching with Pete Scully @ 10am / $160

Try out urban sketching in this exciting workshop with Pete Scully! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370

Mystic Ventures Collective presene "Don't Follow The Lights" @ 2:30pm / $55 Mystic Ventures Collective pre‐sents an immersive theatre piece titled "Don't Follow The Lights" as part of the San Francisco Interna‐tional Arts Festival. Mission Ma‐sonic Lodge No. 169, 169 Bartlett Street, San Francisco. andrew@ s�af.org, 415-305-1102

Live On Larkin - AAPI Heritage Month @ 5pm Check out live music, a fashion show, cultural performances, KPop DJ Sets & Karaoke, free kids activities, and more surprises. Live on Larkin – a new series of free street events on Larkin Street –Larkin Street & Eddy Street, San Francisco. maro@in tothestreetssf.com, 415-226-9289

California Symphony: Heroic Rachmaninoff @ 7:30pm / $50-$110 California Symphony’s season �‐nale concerts feature Rachmani‐noff's dazzling piano concerto, Borodin's dramatic symphony, and a world premiere. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Wal‐nut Creek. info@californiasym phony.org, 925-943-7469

Belville Productions presents "Rio Journal" @ 8pm / $25

Belville Productions presents the Bay Area Premiere of "Rio Journal" at Theatre of Yugen's NOH Space as part of the San Francisco Inter‐national Art Festival Theatre of Yu‐gen at NOHspace, 2840 Mariposa Street, San Francisco. andrew@ s�af.org, 415-305-1102

Forrest Day @ 8pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell Street, San Francisco

Levity @ 10pm Space 550, 550 Barneveld Avenue, San Francisco

Mother’s Day Brunch @ 10am / $110 An over the top Mother’s Day brunch for the entire family. The HIVE Tasting Room and Kitchen, 1221 Harter Avenue, Woodland. thehive@zspecialtyfood.com, 530668-0660

Grayson Kessenich @ 10am First Christian Church of Napa, 2659 1st St, Napa

Conspiracy of Venus presents "Choral Accom‐paniments to Our Times" @ 2pm / $25 Conspiracy of Venus presents "Choral Accompaniments to Our Times" at the San Francisco Inter‐national Arts Festival Community Music Center, 544 Capp Street, San Francisco. andrew@s�af.org, 415305-1102

Ellisa Sun: Sofar Sounds San Francisco @ 3pm Sofar Sounds San Francisco, San Francisco

Derek James Music @ 12:30pm Star�eld Vineyards & Winery, 2750 Jacquier Rd, Plac‐erville

EnSPirits: Bay Area! @ 2:30pm Lucca Bar & Grill, 439 1st St, Beni‐cia California Symphony: Heroic Rachmaninoff @ 4pm / $50-$110 California Symphony’s season �‐nale concerts feature Rachmani‐noff's dazzling piano concerto, Borodin's dramatic symphony, and a world premiere. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Wal‐nut Creek. info@californiasym phony.org, 925-943-7469

Amy Obenski @ 7:30pm Madrone Art Bar, 500 Divisadero St, San Francisco

Ritt Momney @ 8pm The Chapel, San Francisco

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

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

Strength & Balance Class @ 1:15pm Strength & Balance class at the Davis Lutheran Church Davis Lutheran Church ELCA, 317 East 8th Street, Davis. tina�tness68@ gmail.com

Children's Kung Fu Classes at the Davis Arts Center

@ 3:15pm

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

The Saloon - Peter Lindman and Roger Rocha (4 Non Blondes)

@ 4pm The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco

GamperDrums Presents: ZinggFlower - Mondays at Biscuits & Blues @ 6:30pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco

Ghost Heart: Dirty Gigs: San Francisco Takeover at Kilowatt @ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Dave Hill @ 7pm Golden Gate Theater, 1 Taylor St, San Francisco

Allen Ginsberg Centennial @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia Street, San Francisco

Chris Baron Music: Chris‐BaronMusic @CaBurgerCo @ 5pm California Burger Company, 1001 Heavenly Village Way #2b, South Lake Tahoe

at

Tap House, 1725 33rd St, Sacramento

w/

Garratt Wilkin & The Parrotheads - Celebrating the Music of Jimmy Buffett @ 7:30pm / $35-$45

We all want the best for our aging parents. When we start to notice changes in their daily routines, like di culty with household tasks, missing meals, or becoming increasingly isolated, it may be time to start talking about Assisted Living.

Tips for talking with your loved ones about Assisted Living:

Choose the right moment | Be honest and empathetic

Listen actively | Provide information

Reassure their independence

Most importantly, take it stepby-step. Frame the conversation as the beginning of an ongoing discussion, rather than a nal decision. is allows time for adjustment and further exploration together.

Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care

FINANCIAL FOCUS

Saving for retirement – are you guessing or planning?

Let’s say you dream of spending your retirement mornings on a warm beach, co ee in hand, waves rolling in. To get there, you had a simple plan: save $1 million and buy the beach house you always wanted. But when retirement arrives, reality hits. A er accounting for keeping your current home, everyday expenses and health care, $1 million doesn’t stretch as far as you thought, and the beach house remains a dream. The problem wasn’t your discipline – it was that your number was never really your number. It was arbitrary, not anchored to what your ideal retirement would actually cost.

Suzy O’Neal Financial columnist

How can you make sure your retirement number is right for you?

A solid savings goal starts with a clear picture of the retirement you want. Think through where you plan to live, whether you’ll keep your current home or downsize, how much you plan to travel, if you’ll help children and grandchildren nancially and what health care might cost you later in life. Build a realistic monthly budget, then multiply by 12 months to nd your annual need. Adjust this amount for in ation until the rst year of retirement.

Then, multiply that gure by 25 to get a sense of how much may be needed to save. It’s a formula based on the idea of withdrawing 4% annually from your savings, assuming you retire in your mid-60s. If you need $60,000 a year, your target is around $1.5 million. You may need more or less depending on your lifestyle, health, unexpected expenses, Social Security bene ts and other income. No single rate or strategy will work for everyone. A nancial advisor can help you determine your number and strategy.

Wheels

cra beer and refreshing Italian sodas available for purchase. The historical Murer House and its beautiful gardens will be open for tours and guests can even try their hand at a game of bocce.

Admission is free, making it an easy and enjoyable way to spend a spring morning with family and friends.

Have wheels? If you own an Italian

Once you know your target, the path forward becomes clearer. Here are a few tips for next steps:

Start early

The sooner you begin saving, the more time compound interest has to work in your favor. Small amounts set aside automatically each paycheck have the opportunity to grow signi cantly over decades.

Live below your means

Spending less than you earn is one of the most powerful wealth-building habits. When your income rises, save and invest the di erence instead of upgrading your lifestyle. Keep your debt under control — Since credit cards and other high-interest debt can slow your progress, pay o balances monthly when possible.

Invest consistently

If your employer o ers a 401(k), aim to contribute at least 10%-15% of your salary, and increase your contributions a er every raise. If you max out your 401(k), a traditional IRA or Roth IRA may o er additional tax-advantaged growth (eligibility and contribution limits apply).

Boost your income when you can

Develop new skills, ask for a raise or explore a side income. Every extra dollar saved moves you closer to your goal. The di erence between a retirement you love and one full of compromises o en comes down to the planning you do today. Know your real number, build a solid plan and get the right help along the way. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisor Suzy O’Neal, (530) 676-5402. Edward Jones, member SIPC.

car, motorcycle, scooter or bicycle, you’re invited to be part of the show. To register a vehicle, contact Bob Crawford at bcrawakarob@gmail.com. The Murer House Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonpro t dedicated to preserving the historical Murer House and enriching the community through cultural and educational programs. Continued from B2