Mountain Democrat, Wednesday Oct. 22, 2025

Great start to Halloween

Vonderschmitt

editor

The Placerville City Council voted 3–2 on Oct. 14 to approve a $59,450 amendment to the city’s contract with Architectural Nexus Inc., advancing long-delayed efforts to stabilize the city’s historical former City Hall and Confidence buildings on Main Street.

The move brings the total contract amount to just over $204,000 and aims to prepare engineering plans that will allow removal of scaffolding that has supported the west wall of the buildings for several years.

The buildings, dating back to the 1860s, have stood vacant since 2015 when city engineers deemed them structurally unsafe. Arts and Culture El Dorado occupied the space under a temporary permit. In 2022 Arts and Culture received an order to vacate due to the unsafe nature of the building. For years, a steel scaffolding system has braced the sagging west wall — an increasingly visible symbol of both

EDSO Explorer Post earns first place at national competition

Sgt. Kyle Parker El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce Explorer Post 457 earned top honors at the Riverside Police Department’s annual Explorer Competition held Oct. 11-12. Competing against 41 teams from across California and neighboring states, Post 457 secured 1st place overall, marking an exceptional achievement for the local youth law enforcement program. This is the third time that Explorer Post 457 has taken 1st place overall. In addition to their overall victory, the team earned multiple category awards,

ESSENTIALS

Jeffrey Robert Wall

Feb. 18, 1959 – Aug. 11, 2025

On August 11, 2025, Jeffrey Robert Wall passed away at his home in Placerville, California. He was born on February 18, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois, to Donald Jack and Dolores Frenzel-Wall, and grew up in Bloomingdale, IL, where he made childhood memories that carried through his life.

After graduating from Lake Park High School and earning his Engineering degree from Western Illinois University, Jeff followed opportunity west, first to San Luis Obispo, California, and then settling in Placerville, where he built a life filled with family, friends, and a career with Aerojet he was proud of. For more than four decades, Placerville was not just where he lived—it was where he put down roots and created a home. Jeff was happiest outdoors. Whether it was casting a line in the water, heading out on a hunt or panning for gold, nature was his sanctuary. He will be remembered for his laughter, quick wit, and the sparkle in his eye. And of course—Jeff always had a tale to tell. Whether it was about the one that got away, an adventure in the woods, or a funny twist on everyday life, his stories drew people in and left them laughing.

He now joins in eternal rest with his parents, Jack and Dolores, his sister Peggy, his nephew Tommy, and his son Jay—loved ones he carried in his heart every day. He is survived by his devoted wife, Anishka, and daughter Sonya Cordero (Travis), who carries his first granddaughter – a baby girl who will grow up surrounded by stories of her grandpa; sisters Donna Dunaway (Sig) and Kathy Bennett (Rick); stepdaughter, Adina Conklin; step-grandchildren, Alicia Buckmaster and Lance Hooker (Bruna); and step great-grandson, Mason Hooker, along with lifelong friends Ronnie Lessor and Mark Kaufmann who will all carry his stories forward, along with countless others whose lives he touched. The family will gather privately to honor Jeff’s life.

Janelle Marie Pillow

April 25, 1956 – Aug. 18, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Janelle Marie Pillow on August 18, 2025, at the age of 69. Born on April 25, 1956, in Placerville, California.

Jack Williams Hartman

April 13, 1961 – Sept. 22, 2025

Jack Williams Hartman, 64, of Pollock Pines, California went to be with his Lord and Savior on September 22, 2025, in Yosemite National Park. Jack was born April 13, 1961, in Purmerend, Netherlands to parents John Rudy Hartman and Mary (Hopman) Hartman.

In March 1962, he and his parents immigrated to the United States. He grew up in Southern California and was the oldest of five children. He graduated from Rancho Alamitos High School and moved to El Dorado County in 1979. Jack married his high school sweetheart Denise Whitzel, on March 7, 1981, in Cameron Park, California. He began a career in the U.S. Forest Service, working on the Eldorado Hotshots, Big Hill Helitack, and Pacific House engine crews. Jack pursued the challenge of firefighting and loved working in the wilderness.

Jack pivoted to the construction industry in 1987 as a foreman for a general contractor. In 1989, he obtained his license and launched his own business, Hartman Construction. Over the next 36 years, he framed hundreds of homes and built custom homes, room additions, and remodels throughout El Dorado County. Jack was a talented carpenter who could manage the stressful aspects of a project with a great sense of humor. He loved employing his kids and teaching his sons the trade.

Throughout his life, Jack enjoyed sailing, backpacking, hunting, fishing, camping and chainsaw carving. He gave his heart to the Lord at the age of 16 and strived to follow Him the rest of his life. His greatest joy was spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Jack is survived by his wife, Denise of 44 years; his five children, Lindsey (Brian) Carlton of Shingle Springs, CA, Josiah Hartman of Pollock Pines, CA, Jesse (Cori) Hartman of Brentwood, CA, Levi (Brittney) Hartman of Auburn, CA, and Jenny (Gavin) Riddle of Shingle Springs, CA; seven grandchildren, Paisley, Emma, Maverick, Savannah, Lyla, Mikaela and Carter; his mother Mary (Hopman) Hartman of Placerville, CA; sisters Janette (Paul) Thomas of Manassas, VA, Brenda (Clay) Higgins of Placerville, CA, Diane Behrbaum of Ripon, CA, and brother Johnny (Mari) Hartman of Dixon, CA.

Edward “Ed” George Hagen II

May 4, 1943 – Oct. 7, 2025

El Dorado Ed Hagen, 82, died Tuesday October 7th, 2025 at his home in El Dorado, CA, with his family surrounding him. He was born on May 4th, 1943, in Colusa, CA, a son of the late Edward George Hagen I and Chrystle Moore, born to a pioneer family, and one of four siblings. Ed graduated from El Dorado High School in 1961, and served in the United States Marine Corp. After his Marine service, he became an independent trucker with his 1953 Peterbilt truck “Queenie”, and eventually opened El Dorado Ed’s Wood Yard. In the mountains, he would lend a helping hand with his equipment if a fire occurred or someone was in need. He loved setting up a good prank, hunting, fishing in Fort Bragg, working his cattle ranch, enjoyed raising world champion quarter horses, driving the stagecoach with Davey Wiser on Main St, and playing his harmonica to bring joy wherever he went. He was known for delivering Christmas cards on horseback, lifetime Pony Express Member, and doing Easter Celebrations on his family ranch for over 50 years. Ed orchestrated during the energy crisis of 1981 for the local community to bring wood back to White House to Ronald Reagan where the President scheduled to split wood with him. He enjoyed community events like the dances at El Dorado Community Hall, logging days, and bar stool races. Ed built and donated El Dorado Train Depot. In his later years, started a cowboy church on his family ranch. He loved his community and was recognized as Grand Marshall in the Christmas Parade 2023 for his countless years of giving back. All of his many life accomplishments came because he never knew the word “Can’t.”

He is survived by his wife Sheryl Hagen, Son Edward “Eddie” George Hagen III, Daughter Mae & Mike Lacy, Daughter Melody & Joshua Courtney, Stepdaughter Angela & Christien Tinsley, Stepson Ryan and Iraida Ladner, Stepson Jared & Kelly Ladner. Late Sister Jackie Ferre, Sister Georgia Bauer, and Brother Jim & Mary Hagen. Grandchildren Rachel, Daniel, Cassidy & Vasyl, Hannah, Juliet, Chrystle, Violet, Cody, Jude, Stella, Lane, Madox, Kylee, Alec, and Mason. Great Grandchildren Colt, Lucy, and Romeo.

Janelle is survived by her sons, Kyle, Kory, and Kolby; her mother, Charlotte Pillow; and her siblings, Annette (John) and Dean (Sherry). Janelle was a devoted grandmother to Christian, Kylie, Conner, and Kiera, cherishing every moment spent with them, especially at ball games and a variety of outdoor activities. One particularly joyful memory was celebrating her twins, Kyle and Kory, on their third birthday and watching their faces light up as they sat together inside a fire engine.

Known for her free spirit, Janelle approached life with courage and curiosity. From riding her pony and sledding down hills to go-cart adventures and childhood mischief, she was always the first to dive into fun. Even as a toddler, she was on the move, often slipping out of her stroller to explore the world around her. Her cousin Denise was her faithful partner in many of these adventures.

Janelle’s radiant smile and laughter were contagious and brightened every gathering. Her beauty and charm once caught the attention of Tom Jones at a concert, where she was invited backstage. She even enjoyed a touch of Hollywood magic as a contestant on The Price Is Right, where she won a grand prize that included a mink coat and a trip to Switzerland.

Janelle’s legacy is one of love, generosity, and selflessness. She never hesitated to share what she had with others and lived with an open heart. In her final act of giving, Janelle donated her body to the UC Davis School of Medicine to support Parkinson’s research, continuing her spirit of compassion and contribution even beyond her lifetime.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her endless energy, kind heart and beautiful smile.

Barbara Jeanne Showalter Pedro

Aug. 20, 1930 – Sept. 20, 2025

Barbara Jeanne Showalter Pedro, passed away on September 20, 2025, surrounded by family members. Barbara was born in Oakland, California in 1930. She was blessed and survived by a large loving family, inclusive of daughters and sons-in-law, Katherine Pedro Beardsley, (Robert), Barby Pedro Brilliant (Laurence) and Jeanne Pedro White, (Monte). Six Grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren.

Although Barbara held various paid positions, her real love was volunteering in the communities she lived in which included Martinez, Alpine Meadows, Greenville and El Dorado Hills, CA.

Barbara is predeceased by her husband, Edmond Clark Pedro, her Mother Ruth Samples Showalter, her father, Charles David Showalter, her sisters, Joan Showalter Beeson, Darleen Showalter Barba, and Ruth Showalter Oldham.

We ask that in lieu of flowers, please donate to: Snowline Health, 6520 Pleasant Valley Rd., Diamond Springs, California 95619. There is no memorial planned at this time. Full Obituary can be found at Barbara J. Pedro Obituary (1930 - 2025).

Jack is preceded in death by his father, John Rudy Hartman.

A Celebration of Life service was held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Calvary Chapel Placerville. Cards of remembrance and condolence can be mailed to: Denise Hartman, PO Box 609, Pollock Pines, CA 95726.

Frances A. Hunt

July 18, 1926 – Oct 5, 2025

Frances Hunt, 99, passed away peacefully October 5, 2025 in Placerville California surrounded by her loving family. She was a 5th generation resident of El Dorado County.

Born in Placerville to Carl and Gladys Heuer she was raised on the family ranch near Pleasant Valley. Growing up as a cowgirl she participated in numerous cattle drives to summer pasture around Lake Tahoe, Silver Lake and Wright’s Lake. Frances went to elementary school at the same one room school that her father went to, Summit School on Springer Road. She graduated from El Dorado High School in 1943. In 1946, while working at Robinson’s Pharmacy, she met the love of her life, Austin C. Hunt who was on leave from the army while visiting his family in Placerville. They were happily married for 54 years until his passing In 2000.

Over the years Frances worked at various bakeries in Placerville and also at Hangtown Pharmacy. In retirement, she worked seasonally at several bakeries in Apple Hill. A love of baking earned her many blue ribbons at the El Dorado County Fair over the years. She also loved quilting and gifted her family with many of her quilts.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Austin and her sister Harriett Jauch. She is survived by her children Beverlee Bailey (Bob), Jim Hunt (Christie) and Marilyn Engelmann (Bob). She is also survived by her grandchildren Sam, Alisa, Mike, Tricia, Scott, Jennifer, and Kelli and 10 great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Sunshine Manor Elder Care and Snowline Hospice for the compassionate care our Mother received in the last few months.

Private services will be held at Pleasant Valley Cemetery.

Jacqueline Ann “Jackie” Kelly

March 1947 – Oct. 1, 2025

Jackie Kelly, of Placerville, CA passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. She was born in St Paul, Minnesota to John and Margaret Dickhudt. The family moved to California in 1950 and Jackie was a 1965 graduate of Lynwood High School. She later resided in Hanford, CA, Huntington Beach, CA, Placerville, CA, South Lake Tahoe, CA and Seattle, WA before returning to her beloved Placerville after her retirement in 2013.

She is survived by her son, two grandchildren, brother Joe Dickhudt of McPherson, KS, sister Judy (Steve) Supple of Lone Tree, CO and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

A special thank you goes to her long time and very supportive friend, Mary.

A private service is being planned. To honor Jackie’s love of the sights and history of the gold country, the family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Gold Discovery Park Association.

His Celebration of Life will be held on Ed’s Family Ranch on Easter Hill – 6341 Hagen Ranch Road El Dorado, 95623 on Saturday November 1st, 2025 at 1pm. To share stories, memories, and music. Please bring your favorite dish to share in the festivities.

Jordan Ray Tyler

Jan. 13, 1995 – Aug. 29, 2025

Jordan Ray Tyler was born in Placerville, California, to Diana Dappen Fox and Kenneth Tyler. He attended Union Mine High School and graduated from Palo Verde High School in Las Vegas. He later joined the Conservation Corps in Stockton, where he worked hard — helping fight wildfires and preparing meals for firefighters. Jordan was fortunate in life to experience travel and adventure, thanks to the generosity of doting aunts and uncles. He visited Bora Bora not once, but twice, where he swam with sharks and stingrays. He cruised to Cabo San Lucas, enjoying life aboard the ship and exploring every corner. He parasailed in Turks and Caicos, was lifted by dolphins in Jamaica, and took a helicopter ride over Hawaii, where he snorkeled to his heart’s content. One Christmas, he spent the holidays in Italy, ice skating and — as he jokingly said — “going to a million museums.” But perhaps his favorite adventure of all was flying to England and then on to Africa, where he went on safari and witnessed the breathtaking beauty of the wild and its animals. Jordan is preceded in death by his brother, Morgan Tyler. He is survived by his mother, Diana Fox; his father, Kenneth Tyler; and his sisters Kristi King, Erika Garig, and Kelsey Smelser. He was a loving son, a wonderful brother, and a good friend. Jordan had a kind heart, a curious spirit, and a quiet strength. Since Morgan’s passing two years ago, we’ve imagined them reunited — together again, playing soccer in the sky.

A service to celebrate Jordan’s life will be held on October 26 at 1:00 p.m. at the family home in El Dorado, California.

Protestors put their words in action on second No Kings Day

Shelly Thorene Sta

writer

Protestors lined Main Street in Placerville near the courthouse and stood on 10 overpasses in El Dorado County in the second No Kings protest Oct. 18, joining a reported seven million demonstrators nationwide.

According to Indivisible team leader Mary Elliott-Klemm, community members also participated in a sign making event on Sept. 27 prior to the protest that drew a total of 1,938 people of all ages.

Jacob Leveroni, 32, of Shingle Springs stood on the Bedford pedestrian overpass and marked attendance of protestors at that location. He said he came out to “protest a two-tier justice system and was tired of the fact that working-class people were held to a di erent standard.” He added he wanted America to be “restored to an equal playing field.”

Event safety captain Jeanette Maynard of Shingle Springs said in her position she gets to speak with most of the protest participants on her overpass. “I’ve noticed

FBI Sacramento Office of Public Affairs News release

SACRAMENTO —

The Sacramento Field O ce made numerous arrests over the past three months as part of the “Summer Heat” operation, the FBI’s nationwide e ort to crush violent crime.

“The surge of FBI resources to address violent crime threats within the communities served to send a strong message to criminals involved in gang violence, drug tra cking, weapons tra cking or crimes against children. The message is simple; your illicit activities are not welcome in the communities we serve,

more Republicans are coming and sharing how upset they are with the current administration. It’s good to see people are paying attention. People are starting to understand that our democracy is in danger. These are truly scary times.”

Protestor Kathleen Mintert said her intent was to “stand up for the rule of law because the president pardons Jan. 6 convicted criminals, illegally stops programs Congress funded, uses the DOJ to prosecute his personal enemies

and law enforcement o cials at all levels are actively working together to protect lives and ensure you face justice for your crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field O ce.

Between June 24 and Sept. 20, all 55 FBI field o ces participated in the multi-pronged o ensive to crush violent crime. The FBI surged resources alongside state and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, dismantling violent gangs, identifying and rescuing child victims and resolving violent crime cases in Indian Country.

Within the 34 counties the FBI

and o ers no evidence for illegal orders to blow up so-called drug cartel boats.”

“We stand up for each other as he endangers millions of Americans by tripling health insurance costs and defunds cancer research so he can give tax breaks to the wealthy,” she added. “We protest his lies to us.”

“Like so many Americans, I was taught by my teachers our country was the best in the world because of our system of government. The three separate branches that

Sacramento Field O ce serves, operations tied to Summer Heat led to more than 430 specific judicial outcomes, which include arrests, indictments, convictions and sentencings of violent crime o enders.

Additional results of this e ort also include approximately: • 102 weapons recovered • 41 illicit drug seizures • 27 children located or recovered. Nationally, Summer Heat led to 8,629 arrests, with more than 6,500 falling under the FBI’s Violent Crime and Gang program. In addition, agents and intelligence professionals investigating violent

govern us — Congress, the Presidency and the Courts balanced one another so no one branch could be overly powerful,” shared Placerville resident Marian Washburn.

“Sadly, it is clear to me, the system that has kept us together for 250 years, has now been repudiated. Congress has relinquished almost all of its authority. The Supreme Court seems to only rubber stamp the president’s desires. We who disagree are called radical treasonous enemies.”

crimes against children identified or located 1,053 victim children. Summer Heat operations also led to the seizure of 44,569 kilograms of cocaine, 421 kilograms of fentanyl and 2,281 weapons.

PREGNANCY AND DENTAL CARE

There was once a time when pregnant women were cautioned against scheduling dental exams, but all that has changed. Now, in recognition of the fact that hormonal changes associated with pregnancy can exert significant effects on dental and oral health, pregnant women are being encouraged to visit the dentist before, during, and after their pregnancies. Bacterial growth in our mouths that is influenced by hormones has the potential to create problems related to bone density, as well as to potential difficulties in pregnancy. With this in mind, pregnant women and those with intentions of having children have every reason to visit the dentist. In fact, pregnant women should view dental visits as part of their

comprehensive prenatal care. Too many pregnant women are not getting timely dental care. Dental treatment during pregnancy is considered beneficial and delaying oral care may be capable of having serious consequences. We keep abreast of all the new techniques that are available in today’s world of dentistry. Call us today and schedule an appointment. We are currently accepting new patients. We offer “Tooth Print,” which is an impression of a child’s full mouth. About the size of a small wafer, the impression is given to the parent/guardian for the family album or for ID for a missing child.

P.S. Hormonal changes experienced by (post-) menopausal women should prompt regular visits to the dentist.

EDH Promise Foundation getting back in the game

Noel Stack Editor

The El Dorado Hills Promise Foundation is ready to get back to work. Foundation board member Allan Priest shared this message and a presentation at the Oct. 9 EDH Community Services District Board of Directors meeting.

Mission: “The El Dorado Hills Promise Foundation directly benefits our community by supporting many services and recreational opportunities available in El Dorado Hills — public parks and amenities, health and welfare, senior and youth services and education and recreation programs that cannot be provided by other means.”

“It’s all about raising the quality of life in our community for everybody,” Priest said.

The group formed in 2013 as an organization that reported to the EDHCSD Board of Directors and in 2017 transitioned into an independent, managed fund under the umbrella of the El Dorado Community Foundation. After that transition, Priest acknowledged paperwork errors occurred for several years and noted foundation representatives would be conferring with the California Attorney General’s Office to get that issue squared away.

As of Sept. 30 the EDH Promise Foundation’s sub-funds totaled a little more than $383,000 with more than 40% of that designated for senior programs support primarily because of the Closson Family Endowment.

“That was an original about a $110,000 endowment that has grown through investments over time, so that is dedicated,” Priest explained.

“There’s only about $35,000 of that is available to spend, which is resources that have been spun off from investment returns over time.”

More than $72,000 is designated for the long-proposed veterans memorial in El Dorado Hills and another $71,000 is set aside for outdoor education, trails and Bass Lake Regional Park, with a large chunk of that money coming from the Gaal Memorial Fund.

Past projects funded by the foundation include Moni Gilmore Senior Center improvements, EDH

Bowmen archery site improvements, Bass Lake Regional Park community engagement and an immersive swimming program for those with special needs.

Looking to the future, Priest said the foundation will continue its support of the veterans memorial, senior center, Bass Lake Regional Park and the newly acquired golf course property.

“Acquiring that 100 acres is just a phenomenal long-term win for this community. There’s no doubt about it,” he told the directors. “I think you guys did a great job getting that property.”

Priest said the foundation is also identifying new initiatives and actively recruiting the next generation of volunteers. “It would be great to engage more members of this community into the Promise Foundation and take over and … most importantly, build on the existing success and new ideas, and just get some renewed energy and renewed success,” he shared.

Directors Mike Martinelli and Heidi Hannaman, who also sits on the foundation board, thanked Priest and all the foundation volunteers for their hard work and contributions.

“I am super proud to be a part of this group,” Hannaman said. “I hope we get back together soon.”

Director Noelle Mattock had several questions about funding handled and pursued by the foundation and also shared her gratitude for the volunteers and donors, especially in regard to the Bass Lake project. “I really look forward to working with you when the (environmental impact report) gets done for Bass Lake, and once we get the visioning for the golf course as well,” Mattock said. “Thank you, all of you, for your time and dedication.”

Public comment included criticism and defense of the Promise Foundation largely focused on an anonymous complaint submitted. Foundation members responded to this complaint and shared that response in written documents included in the Oct. 9 EDHCSD board packet. Visit eldoradohillscsd. org/about/board_of_directors, click on Board of Directors’ Meetings –Agenda Packets and select the Oct. 9 packet to read more.

Marshall’s program featured in international medical journal

Marshall News release

Marshall’s innovative approach to treating substance use disorders has been recognized in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, an international peer-reviewed publication by Springer Nature. The study highlights the success of Marshall’s Substance Use Navigator program in improving health outcomes for patients experiencing substance use disorders through early treatment interventions and reduced unplanned hospital readmissions.

The research, conducted in partnership with the Public Health Institute’s Bridge Center, evaluated hospitalized patients with alcohol or opioid use disorders at Marshall’s main hospital campus in Placerville. Findings show patients who received a consultation from a Substance Use Navigator were twice as likely to begin FDA-approved medication treatment and experienced a 64% lower rate of 30-day unplanned readmissions compared to those who did not receive navigator support.

“We are proud that Marshall’s work continues to be part of the national conversation on substance use care,” said Siri Nelson, president and chief executive officer of Marshall. “This research reaffirms our philosophy that an elevated patient experience can achieve exceptional results when we invest in programs and people that

meet patients where they are. This approach helps offer a pathway for our patients to achieve their highest desired state of well-being.”

Marshall launched its Substance Use Navigator program in 2019 through California’s CA Bridge initiative. The program integrates trained navigators within the Emergency Department and hospital facilities to identify patients with substance use disorder and initiate medication-assisted treatment. Patients are then provided with resources that connect them to low-barrier community-based recovery services for further support.

“The study reinforces the value of supporting evidence-based treatment and patient navigation directly into hospital care,” said Arianna Campbell, DMSc, MPH, PA-C, senior director at The Bridge Center at the Public Health Institute and lead author of the study. “When hospitals take a medication-first approach and offer consults from navigators with lived experience, patients are more likely to engage in a sustainable treatment plan with a path to recovery. Marshall’s model demonstrates what is possible across hospitals of any size.”

The article, “Impact of Substance Use Navigators on Initiation of Treatment for Substance Use Disorders and 30-Day Unplanned Readmission,” appears in the October 2025 issue of the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

Explorers

(Integrated Communication, Assessment, and Tactics)

According to Riverside Police Chief statements, this year’s event is now recognized as the largest law enforcement Explorer competition in the nation, bringing together the most skilled and motivated youth participants from across the country. The two-day competition challenged Explorers with realistic law enforcement scenarios designed to test decision-making, leadership and teamwork under pressure.

Explorer Post 457’s success reflects months of dedicated training and

preservation hopes and bureaucratic delay.

City Manager Dave Warren said the new amendment represents a technical but important step forward.

“On Jan. 25, 2024, the city entered into an agreement with Architectural Nexus to prepare a stabilization document for historic City Hall,” Warren told the council. “The work first involved materials testing which measured the strength of the building materials, followed by preparation of construction documents. Due to various delays, that work was not completed until August 2025. The plans received did not include stabilizing the buildings but using the existing scaffolding.”

With the scaffolding deteriorating, Warren said, “The current contract amendment provides for additional stabilization work that will allow the scaffolding to be removed safely while keeping the structure stable.”

Placerville Building Official Greg Horsfall, who has overseen structural reviews since 2022, told councilmembers the buildings’ condition remains serious.

“When I came on, the scaffolding was already in place,” Horsfall said. “After reviewing the 2015 Burn Engineering report, it was apparent that the building was structurally unsound and had only a temporary permit for the shoring to hold that west wall up. Immediately, occupancy was revoked.”

He said the scaffolding has continued to deteriorate, with ivy and weeds growing through it.

“It is imperative that the scaffolding get removed and the building become stable,” Horsfall said. “We asked Arch Nexus, which has been a fantastic firm to work with, to encompass in a revised design, to include the current shoring elements that are on the interior of the building and come up with a way to stabilize it with new components on the exterior. That way it would be able to facilitate immediate critical repairs to the building, including the roof itself.”

Horsfall said the new design would “essentially accomplish the same goal that the current shoring in place” while complying with code.

A solution

Mayor John Clerici, who has made rehabilitation of the historical downtown buildings a priority, spoke strongly in favor of the amendment.

“I was not happy with what happened and I have been going back and forth with Greg (Horsfall) and basically from my perspective what I wanted, and this would address, is a solution that stabilizes the wall, stabilizes the building and ties the wall to that new wall and so we can put a roof on the place,” he said adding that replacing the roof was the city’s obligation.

Clerici said he had visited the buildings with Horsfall several times.

“It seems to me you’re going to end up building a wall, a support wall inside the brick wall that’s going to hold all the load. And even if the outside wall fell off, the building would still stand because you’d have this independent structure inside.”

Horsfall confirmed that description, adding the design follows the first option proposed in the 2015 Burn Engineering report.

Cost and priority

Despite staff and the mayor’s assurances, several residents urged the council to reject the amendment, citing financial pressures and skepticism about the project’s scope.

Sue Rodman, a longtime Placerville resident, said she’s watched the buildings “over years

mentorship provided by El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce deputies and advisors. The program o ers young men and women ages 14–21 an opportunity to explore law enforcement careers while developing integrity, confidence and a strong sense of public service.

Post 457 continues to represent El Dorado County with pride and professionalism at regional and statewide events, demonstrating the strength of community engagement and the department’s ongoing investment in the next generation of public safety leaders.

and years and years” and questioned whether removing the scaffolding was necessary.

“My understanding was the scaffolding was needed as part of stabilizing the buildings. Is that true? Has it served its purpose?”

Rodman asked. “Are Old City Hall and the Confidence buildings currently stable? Why wasn’t scaffolding removal part of the contract that put it up? Why now? … Is the scaffolding ugly? You bet it is. Is it hurting anything? I doubt it. Is this a city priority? If so, why?”

Downtown Placerville property owner Sue Taylor argued the city is overspending on studies and consultants.

“I think we spent about $400,000 on this project … before all that money was spent, again, Lori Burns, the engineer, had given the city three options back in 2015 of how you could stabilize that building,” she said. “You just bring in a professional brick mason. They would rebuild these buildings in weeks because they know how to build a wall and stabilize it and put tie rods across it. It’s not that complicated.”

Placerville resident Kirk Smith criticized the city for indecision and reliance on future grant funding.

“We’ve seen a tremendous amount of money put into these buildings and we heard about it for decades,” Smith said. “It’s just really risky to say you’re going to make an investment based on speculation that that money is going to be available when already the office of humanities gets cut.”

Architectural Nexus representative Victor Burbank told the council the amendment focuses solely on producing the engineering required to remove the scaffolding.

“I really don’t have enough of a background to weigh in on the politics and the back and forth, but just to try to add some clarity to this,” he said. “The facility as it is right now is in unsafe condition and it can’t be fixed by having a brick layer go in and put in new brick. Unreinforced masonry buildings in California are not safe. If the building is owned by a municipality like this one, there’s significant risk in having anybody in those buildings.”

Councilmember Ryan Carter asked for clarity on the amendment’s scope. “Can you articulate just for the record exactly what you consider to be the scope of work of this new amendment so we don’t have a repeat of the last problem?”

“The scope of the current amendment is for Arch Nexus, the architects, us and Buéhler Engineers, the structural engineers to do the analysis and develop the drawings and the details needed to take the scaffolding off of the west wall,” Burbank said. “At the end of the permit review process with Greg, you’ll have documents that are approved that then a contractor or an estimator would be able to price.”

Burbank emphasized the work must comply with code and could not be replaced by simple masonry repairs.

Split vote

After more than an hour of discussion, the council approved the amendment on a 3–2 vote. Mayor Clerici, Vice Mayor Nicole Gotberg and Councilmember Jackie Neau voted in favor. Councilmembers Carter and David Yarbrough voted no. The approval allows Architectural Nexus to begin drafting the revised stabilization documents, expected later this year. Once complete, the city will seek funding for construction and roof replacement — the next major milestone in a decade-long preservation effort.

Heaviest piece is only 38.5 lbs

Fits easily into any car trunk

Shock-absorbing

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OPINION

California Matters

Chronic deficit looms again as Newsom prepares his last state budget

It seems like just yesterday that Gov. Gavin Newsom and state legislators enacted a state budget that papered over a $20 billion gap between income and outgo while blaming President Donald Trump for their fiscal dilemma.

It was, in fact, less than four months ago that Newsom signed the $321 billion, 2025-26 budget, saying, “As we confront Donald Trump’s economic sabotage, this budget agreement proves California won’t just hold the line — we’ll go even further. It’s balanced, it maintains substantial reserves, and it’s focused on supporting Californians — slashing red tape and catapulting housing and infrastructure development, preserving essential healthcare services, funds universal pre-K, and cuts taxes for veterans.” Trump, however, had nothing to do with what state o cials have described as a “structural deficit,” meaning that spending encased in current law outstrips revenue expectations. Rather, it stems from what o cialdom later acknowledged as a $165 billion error in revenue projections in 2022 that fueled Newsom’s boast of having a $97.5 billion surplus. That, in turn, resulted in a sharp increase in spending.

Having nessed the state’s chronic de cit over the last three years, Newsom and legislators have run up billions of dollars in debt …

When the surplus was exposed as a phantom, the state was stuck with a chronic income/outgo gap that persists. To cover it this year, Newsom and legislators tapped emergency reserves, borrowed money from the state treasury’s special funds, postponed some spending and engaged in some accounting gimmickry.

Last Thursday, the Legislative Analyst O ce pegged the budget’s total borrowing — on and o the books — at $21 billion.

Although this budget is less than 4 months old, the annual budgetary cycle will soon begin anew.

The Legislature’s budget analyst, Gabe Petek, will issue his annual overview of the state’s finances in a few weeks, followed in December by the Department of Finance’s finalization of parameters and Newsom’s decisions on how to spend what money he assumes the state will have, and in January by the introduction of the first draft of a 2026-27 plan. It will be Newsom’s final budget before his second and final term as governor ends 14 months hence and he very likely embarks on a campaign for the White House.

All indications point to another year of coping with a multibillion-dollar deficit. Major revenues have been running a few billion dollars ahead of estimates in the current budget, but not nearly enough to markedly shrink the structural deficit.

“Despite the recent revenue strength, California’s

■ See WALTERS, page A7

The

TLetters to the Editor

Small businesses need support

EDITOR:

Is the American Dream a reality today? A Pew Research poll shows that 53% of Americans believe it is, 41% think it once was and 6% believe it never was, meaning 94% of Americans believe in the American Dream. That poll is positive, considering only 16.5% of Americans own a small business that employs over half of the American workers today, and that number has been growing.

In politics, the left says that corporations are evil and society needs to fight them. They want the “government” to eliminate corporations for fairness’ sake. What the left fails to understand is that 99.9% of all corporations in America today are small, family-run businesses, creating a strong bond and sense of loyalty.

The right says that what our country needs is a limited government, but the right does little to defend small businesses. In fact, even rightwing governments tend to penalize the American small business owner with a punitive tax bracket. The small business owner is a block of voters demonized by one side and ignored by the other. Yet, despite all the adversity and neglect, small business owners endeavor to persevere.

Small businesses are under assault by our

leftist government here in California, with virtually no support from the right. What both sides need to understand is that small business entrepreneurship is the cornerstone of our society. Small business owners should not have to fight to defend their livelihoods politically. They are people that both sides should agree are essential if you believe in the American Dream, and want to manifest your own destiny in life, providing for your family, instilling a sense of self-worth and accomplishment. There is nothing better than being a small business owner. I wish that someday the left and right would understand that.

KEN STEERS Cameron Park

A temporary adjustment for the greater good

EDITOR:

To my Democrat friends in California who are thinking about voting no on Proposition 50. I value the non-partisan, independent Citizen Redistricting Commission as much as you. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if that was in place in

U.S. government has shut down! Do you really

he government is “shut down.” Media call this a “crisis.”

A “crisis (with) no deal in sight,” says Fox News. Reuters says it’s a “key risk to U.S. stability.” But when I look around, I see business as usual — families raise children, workers work, people play music ... The media act like government is the most important part of life. It isn’t. Fortunately, most of life, and the best of life, happens outside government. Yes, we need government — limited government. Enough to keep us safe. But most of life doesn’t depend on what goes through D.C. Most of life thrives without government, often, despite government.

During shutdowns, government tells “nonessential” workers not to come to work. But if they’re nonessential, why do we employ them?

The shutdown is certainly a problem for the 1.4 million federal employees currently working without pay or furloughed. But they will likely get paid once government’s back in business. That’s what happened before.

The media claim flights are delayed because of Air Tra c Control sta ng shortages. CNN writes, “Delays spread to major airports across the country, as the government shutdown impacts travelers.”

But many of these delays happen

It’s impossible to cover millions of individuals pursuing our own interests. But it’s we who make America work. Not bureaucrats bickering in D.C.

because government runs Air Tra c Control, and government management isn’t good.

In other places (airports in Canada, the U.K., Germany, Australia), Air Tra c Control is privately run. A Government Accountability O ce report found that private systems lead to fewer delays.

Even security screenings work better when they’re private. At San Francisco’s airport, security lines move faster and passengers told me, “The screeners are nicer!”

They’re nicer and faster because in San Francisco (also Kansas City and some smaller airports), private companies handle security. The

TSA even acknowledges that private screeners are better at finding contraband.

So why does government do these things?

It shouldn’t.

Private operators are better because they must compete. Competition makes everybody sharper. Succeed, or you get fired.

But government never fires itself. It’s why its incompetent government workers stay incompetent.

It’s also why the Pentagon flunks audits and uses outdated computers. Shutdowns are supposed to show

budget condition remains fragile,” the state Assembly’s top budget advisor, Jason Sisney, says in a memo last week. “There are many indications that an investment bubble from the so-called ‘artificial intelligence’ industry is fueling recent tax revenue gains.” Sisney correctly added, “Bubbles can lead to dramatic state tax revenue declines when they burst.” That’s what happened about a quartercentury ago when the “dot com” bubble burst, creating a large state budget deficit.

Having finessed the state’s chronic deficit over the

last three years, Newsom and legislators have run up billions of dollars in debt by tapping special funds and must also account for spending deferrals and other maneuvers as they write his final budget. They also must contend with the effects of depending heavily on emergency funds — including $7.1 billion in the current budget — to cover shortfalls.

“Most of the state’s rainy day fund has been used to balance the last two budgets, and the state’s large cash balances largely are unavailable to help fix a structural deficit in the General Fund,” Sisney observes.

The bottom line is that if revenues don’t increase quickly and sharply, Newsom and legislators will face the same chronic deficit, plus added pressure to offset cuts in federal funds for education, social and medical services that Trump and Congress are making. What they do, or don’t do, will accompany Newsom as he plunges into national politics.

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

Stossel Continued from A6

how vital government is. Instead, they show the opposite.

Now, some farmers complain that they’re not getting government support checks. But why should farmers get taxpayer funding in the first place?

Politicians said it was needed to “save family farms,” but it doesn’t. It mostly subsidizes big agribusiness.

Some claim America needs government aid to “guarantee the food supply.” But we don’t. Fruit and vegetable growers get nothing from Washington. There’s no shortage of tomatoes, peaches or green beans ...

We should take a chainsaw to much of government.

Consider government inspections of foods. We’re told to be glad USDA inspectors are considered “essential” and will stay on the job to keep us safe.

But meat is safe not because of bureaucratically mandated inspections but mostly because of competition.

Food sellers have a reputation to uphold. If their food poisons us, people won’t buy from them. As a result, today’s food producers take more safety measures than government requires. One told me they employ a thousand more safety inspectors than the government demands.

Stories like that rarely get coverage.

Politicians, gathered in D.C., are easy to report on. Journalists lazily obsess about them because they’re easy to interview. It’s impossible to cover millions of individuals pursuing our own interests.

But it’s we who make America work. Not bureaucrats bickering in D.C.

Media pundits will continue to act as if shutdowns are a crisis, but they’re not.

We’ve “survived” shutdowns before, and we’ll “survive” this one.

Every Tuesday at JohnStossel.com, Stossel posts a new video about the battle between government and freedom. He is the author of “Give Me a Break: How I Exposed Hucksters, Cheats, and Scam Artists and Became the Scourge of the Liberal Media.”

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Bruins lose homecoming game to Raiders

Mike Bush Mountain Democrat correspondent

A fumble recovery and a trick play played a big role for the Ponderosa High School varsity football team in Friday’s homecoming and Capital Valley Conference game against Rio Americano High’s squad.

The large crowd at Simon-Bruin Stadium seemed to enjoy the high energy of the first 24 minutes of this important conference game that has SacJoaquin Section playoff implications. But it was the Raiders who rose to the occasion in the second half, holding Ponderosa scoreless en route to a 28-14 win.

“We’ve just got to play better offensively,” said Ponderosa head coach Davy Johnson.

“Defensively, I was really happy with how we played (in the first half). They (Rio Americano) couldn’t do anything offensively (in the first half), but neither could we.”

Rio Americano received the opening kickoff at its own 38-yard line, but its possession didn’t last long. Ponderosa middle linebacker Marshall Alvernaz scooped up a fumble and ran it back to the Rio 29 before being tackled.

Ponderosa (2-2 in the CVC, 5-3 overall) needed only four plays to take a 7-0 lead with 8:10 remaining in the first quarter. Wide receiver Ben Baily crossed the plane of the end zone on a 7-yard run. Diego Martinez’s extra-point kick was good.

Throughout the opening quarter and entering the second, defense was the name of the game for the Bruins and Rio Americano (3-1 in the CVC, 5-3). Each team forced the other into a turnover, with punts sprinkled in between.

One of the big plays for the Bruins was when defensive back Zealand Jenks intercepted a pass from Raiders quarterback Ryder Trantham, spotting the ball at the Rio 20. Going for the first down on 4th down and 7 at the Rio 18, Ponderosa turned the ball over on loss of downs when a Bruin receiver went out of bounds, needing to get the ball to the Raider 11 for another first down.

“We’ve got to do a

better job capitalizing on that stuff,” Johnson said.

Ponderosa increased its lead to 14-0 at 2:55 in the second quarter when Jenks, lined up as a wide receiver, had the ball pitched to him from quarterback Colton Ridgley, who became a receiver on the halfback option pass. Ridgley pulled down the pass of 10 yards for the touchdown. Martinez’s kick was good. Rio scored its first touchdown in the quarter with only 20 seconds remaining. Trantham found running back Cole Pratt, who streaked 49 yards for the touchdown.

Ryael Henry booted the extra point for a 14-7 score.

Then the Raiders took

over in the second half.

Rio found a way to get back into the end zone three times. The first time came in the third quarter when Trantham hit wide receiver Devin Pontes, who cut past a Bruin defender and ran up the middle of the field to complete a 35-yard score. The extra-point kick was blocked by Bruin defensive back Tucker Soriano, allowing Ponderosa to hang onto a 14-13 lead.

But the Raiders took the lead at 21-14 at 2:13 left in the third when defensive back Aleck Duarte recovered a Bruin fumble and raced 40 yards for the touchdown. The Raiders opted for the 2-point conversion, a pass from Trantham to wide

SCOREBOARD

receiver Jose Squaglia that was good.

The Bruins’ next two offensive drives toward the end of the quarter and entering the fourth led to stalling on their side of the field.

The Raiders’ final touchdown of the night came at 9:08 left in the game when Trantham threw another TD pass, this one also to Pontes, who was running a post pattern. Pontes cut up the middle and scored. The extra-point kick was good for the final score.

Ponderosa had the ball twice in the final quarter. But a punt and turnover on loss of downs, at the Rio 11, ended the Bruins’ chances of a come-frombehind victory, if not tie

n See FOOTBALL, page A9

Oak Ridge – In a non-league game in El Dorado Hills on Friday, Oak Ridge (2-2 in the Sierra Foothill League, 5-3 overall) proved to be too much for the Monte Vista squad (4-3) from Danville, posting a 38-13 win. Trojan quarterbacks Nick Johnson and Luke Tabor threw for 148 and 134 yards respectively. Braxton Martinez had six receptions for 184 yards and a touchdown. Jasen Womack also crossed the end zone on a passing play. On defense, Troy Taber had seven tackles. Ben Rivas and Aschlei Andrade had six tackles each. This non-league game was in place of Oak Ridge playing Sierra Foothill League member Davis, which is playing an independent schedule this season. This Friday, Oak Ridge gets back into league play at Whitney of Rocklin for a 7 p.m. game. El Dorado – At Cougar Stadium on Friday, El Dorado and Rosemont went into overtime in their Sierra Valley Conference game. The visiting Wolverines returned to Sacramento with a 19-16 win. El Dorado (1-4 in the SVC, 2-6 overall) and Rosemont were tied at 13-all before going into OT. The Cougars booted a

n See SCOREBOARD, page A9

Trojans go big at Grizzly meet

Special to the Mountain Democrat

Oak Ridge High School cross country athletes competed at the Grizzly 3200 meet at Granite Bay High School on Oct. 18 with the boys’ team placing first with 57 points and the girls’ team taking second with 58 points.

“Oak Ridge had three boys — Thomas Capelli, Roman Zamora, Wesley Ewing — who competed in the fastest boys’ race and ... three girls — Adriana Ingargiola, Giuliana Martino, Maya Day — who competed in the fastest girls’ race,” shared coach Rob Fairley. “Many Oak Ridge athletes obtained personal records for the 3200 and quite a few placed in the top three in their race and received a prize.”

First-place finishers received a Grizzly 3200 T-shirt, second-place finishers received a Grizzly 3200 spike bag and third-place finishers received a Grizzly 3200 key chain. Oak Ridge had four athletes — Dax Whann (9:54.75 PR), Doug Dudek (10:23.22 PR), Rob Anderson (11:40.50 PR) and Lauren Tiedeman (11:25.65 PR) — who placed first in their race.

“The Grizzly 3200 was a fun meet for the Oak Ridge cross country athletes to compete in because it showed our athletes their fitness level is high,” Fairley said. “They were able to race fast on the track from the strength training they have been doing throughout the season. This meet has got our athletes excited about completing the season strong in the big meets in November and also has got them excited about the upcoming track season.”

Top times - boys

Thomas Capelli, 5th, 9:15.86 PR (fourth fastest time at ORHS and 2 seconds off the school record)

Roman Zamora, 6th, 9:21.57 PR

Wesley Ewing, 9th, 9:33.46 PR

Oscar Carrillo, 15th, 9:44.80

Dax Whann, 22nd, 9:54.75 PR

Bailey Van Leemput, 23rd, 9:56.27PR

Austin Mackovic, 30th, 10:06.57

Top times - girls

Adriana Ingargiola, 4th, 10:41.29 PR (fourth fastest time at ORHS)

Waterfowl season open across most of California

California Department of Fish and Wildlife News release

California’s 2025-26 waterfowl hunting season began Saturday, Oct. 18, in most zones. Detailed information about specific opening and closing dates, daily bag and possession limits can be found in the 2025-26 California Waterfowl, Upland Game, and Public Use of Department Lands Regulations booklet.

“With wetland conditions looking favorable across much of the state, waterfowl hunters can look forward to a strong start to the season,” said Melanie Weaver, waterfowl coordinator with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Public hunting opportunities can be found on more than two dozen public hunt areas.

CDFW has implemented several changes at public hunt area checkstations. A few key changes to note for the season are:

Hunters requiring a hunting pass must present photo identification at the time of entry.

Reservations will be accepted in numerical order, except for the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area.

Party leaders must have a valid GO ID and hunting license to enter a party in the in-person vacancy draw (lottery).

In-person vacancy draw (lottery) results will be available online by logging into the Online License Sales and Services, by using the CDFW License App, or on a dedicated web

Runners

Continued from A8

Giuliana Martino, 6th, 10:59.43 PR (second sophomore girl at ORHS to break 11:00 in the 3200)

Maya Day, 12th, 11:21.46 PR

Lauren Tiedeman, 18th, 11:25.65 PR

Emi Madsen, 20th, 11:31.76

Football Continued from A8

The Bruins had 139 total offensive yards; 73 in the air and 66 on the ground.

Trantham led the Raiders’ way on offense, completing 10 of 19 passes for 212 yards and three touchdowns. Rio had 129 total rushing yards.

How does this loss impact the Bruins’ playoff chances is anyone’s guess. Especially since the section’s board of managers passed earlier this month to change the playoff format.

page accessible by a QR code at the check-station.

For properties requiring all members to be listed on an in-person vacancy draw (lottery) application, only one member from each party will be required to be present to enter the draw.

Hunters may only enter one in-person vacancy draw (lottery) per hunt day.

For more information regarding season updates and to view additional changes, review the 2025 Waterfowl Hunting Newsletter.

Hunters are encouraged to review area-specific regulations and plan ahead as licenses, validations and passes must be purchased in advance. Updates about wildlife area and refuge closures will be posted on CDFW’s Closures web page. Licenses, validations and passes can be purchased at select CDFW License Sales Offices, online through CDFW’s Online License Sales and Services, in-person at a license agent, or through telephone license sales at (800) 565-1458.

Hunters should also take precautions when handling harvested birds and cleaning equipment as avian influenza H5N1 continues to circulate among wild waterbirds and typically re-emerges during the fall migration. While the risk to humans remains low, hunters are still encouraged to follow safety tips and review information related to avian influenza. Importantly, dress wild game in a well-ventilated area and away from chickens and other pet birds. Do not feed dogs or other animals raw meat or organs from harvested waterfowl.

Sutton Paulsen, 27th, 11:43.41 PR

Elise Sale, 42nd, 12:32.67 PR

The next meet for the Oak Ridge cross country teams is the Sierra Foothill League Championships at William Jessup University on Nov. 1.

COMICS

Continued from A8 the game and send it into overtime.

The top eight teams in each division advance. The teams that are Nos. 9-16 will play in bowl games, which will take place a week after the regular season ends. The playoffs will start the following week.

“What you can control is you’ve got to win games,” Johnson said. “Rio is a much better than its record shows.”

Ponderosa welcomes Vista del Lago (1-3 in the CVC, 2-6) to Simon-Bruin Stadium this Friday. The kickoff is scheduled at 7:15 p.m.

Scoreboard

field goal, but the Wolverines scored a touchdown to win the game.

Hunter Rupley completed 12 of 23 passes for 172 yards for the Cougars. Running back Tyler Villa had 19 carries for 139 yards. Dennis Warden scored the Cougars’ lone touchdown on a run.

This Friday, El Dorado will play at Amador (2-3 in the SVC, 4-4 overall). The game in Sutter Creek is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m.

Letters

Continued from A6 every other state, including Texas? Then we wouldn’t be having to go through with this special election. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. The issue isn’t what’s best for California. The issue is what’s best for the country as a whole. Trump wants to lock in GOP control of Congress and avoid losing the midterm elections by getting Texas and other GOP trifecta states to redistrict middecade instead of after the census as mandated by the Constitution. Trump wants to gain at least five more seats in the House of Representatives for Republicans. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled years ago that federal courts have no power to remedy partisan gerrymandering, so they can do it. Our choice is stark. We can do nothing and let Republicans destroy our Constitutional form of representative democracy, or we can fight back. We can be proud of our good government reforms and let democracy fall apart, or we can compromise our principles for the moment to achieve a greater good. Prop. 50 is a temporary emergency measure to try to level the playing field for control of Congress and re-establish a system of checks and balances. After the 2030 census our Citizen Redistricting Commission will again draw districts for the U.S. House of Representatives, California State Senate and Assembly and the Board of Equalization. Only another vote of the citizens of California can change that. In 2021, Democrats in the House and Senate would have passed a bill

Union Mine – In Friday’s SVC game in El Dorado, Union Mine (1-4 in the SVC, 1-7) could not stay the course with Amador, which recorded a 51-18 win. The visiting Buffaloes held a 30-6 lead at halftime.

This Friday, the Diamondbacks play at Galt High (0-5 in the SVC, 1-7 overall). This game also has a 7:30 p.m. start time.

to require independent non-partisan redistricting for House districts nationwide. A GOP Senate filibuster blocked it from becoming law.

Rural California is not well-served by having rural-only districts. It locks them into a permanent minority that can most easily be ignored. It creates “safe” seats for representatives who don’t have to work to meet the needs of their district as long as they can raise money for reelection from outside interests to keep them in power. Elected representatives who must be responsive to the needs of both rural agricultural areas and urban and suburban areas of their districts are more likely to balance the needs of both.

After the 2020 census, the Citizen Redistricting Commission created a few such districts. For example, very rural San Benito County was joined with portions of San Jose and Santa Clara Counties, which had previously been in a district with Monterey and parts of Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo counties. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren showed up and is ably representing all of her diverse district’s interests. Please take a few moments to thoughtfully consider what’s at stake in our country right now. Californians can make the difference in preventing a permanent GOP takeover of the federal government by voting yes on Prop. 50. I hope you will join us in voting yes. Thank you. JOEL ELLINWOOD Cameron Park

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Your capacity for curiosity is remarkable. You have the instinct to ask how and why things work as they do, and because of this orientation of mind, your questions will keep leading you to fresh discoveries no one else has noticed.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Doing carries more weight than saying. You might not be able to fully articulate what you’re experiencing, learning and feeling right now, but that’s OK because what really speaks is the action you take. Action is the difference in the world.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Love makes space for you to be yourself. If you feel you have to shrink or act a certain way, it’s not love; it’s control or dependency. You’ll know the kind of love that delights in who you are, not just in what you provide.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’ll appreciate circumstances that are not ideal. You don’t ignore the fact that they are hard, but you see something beautiful in them -- something that couldn’t exist if things were any other way than exactly how they are.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). When plans come together, it’s really exciting. You may feel eager to talk about the budding success, but things are still in the fragile, early stage. Don’t share too soon -- much is going to change.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Efficiency is wonderful, but sometimes the long way around is richer. Let the conversation meander if it wants to. Hint: it wants to. The detours and other “inefficiencies” will bring information to light. Side trails have better scenery than the main road.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Balance isn’t always about symmetry; sometimes it’s about giving more weight to what really matters, or what doesn’t seem to matter at all, because you never know. Think of it as a check to make sure the scales are calibrated correctly. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Share your way of seeing. What’s ordinary to you may be dazzling to someone else. Even your routines are filled with novelty others would thrill to know. You’ll realize you’ve been living with treasures so familiar you’ve forgotten their worth. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Control is overrated. Even when you think you have it, surprises still happen.

Sometimes the most influential voice in the room belongs to the one who listens the most carefully. Your steady attention changes dynamics, quietly shifting the direction of the group. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Memory is unreliable. It edits, changing the meaning. It exaggerates, inspiring

A huge thank you to all of our sponsors that supported our Golf Tournament. 100% of all proceeds this year are going to support the Landing! Let's build a PARK!!!

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Jim & Maureen Carter

Chris Sanders & Sandy Mathews

Dave Copeland & P.K. Willis

El Dorado Community Foundation

Gordon Vicini & His Team

Harvey Hopkins

Jake Parsons & the Statherós Team

Kathy Daniels & Tiffany Carter

Todd Crawford

BGCE Board of Directors

NEWS, IN THE KNOW

Oct. 22

Sacramento Metro Chamber and Sutter Health present the Sacramento Speakers Series at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center at 7: 30 p.m. featuring Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. For tickets and more information visit sacramentospeakers.com.

Oct. 23

Senior Helpers, Cameron Park will host a free Caregiver Support Group from 10:30 a.m. to noon. at Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills.

The Shingle Springs/ Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts its monthly luncheon, featuring Marshall CEO Siri Nelson as the guest speaker, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Red Hawk Casino’s Koto Bu et. For more information call (530) 6778000.

The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will hold its Chamber Mixer hosted by Placerville gathering Place and Clubhouse El Dorado at 2820 Cold Springs Road, Placerville from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.

West Coast Turnaround will perform, 7-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

The Stage at Burke Junction will host Intro to Improv workshops Thursdays through Nov. 6. For more information visit stageatburke.com.

Barton Health will host the wellness webinar: Insights into Midlife Hormonal Health for Women from 5-6 p.m. via Zoom. To register visit BartonHealth.org.

Oct. 24

The A Cappella Harmony Camp, a weekend retreat for high school and collegeage boys, will meet at Sly Park Educational Center, 5600 Sly Park Rd, Pollock Pines through Sunday at noon. To register visit farwesterndistrict.org/events/ youth-harmony-camp.

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce will host its Free Trick or Treat event from 4-7 p.m. at Burke Junction in Cameron Park. For more information visit burkejunction.com.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District presents Trunk-or-Treat & Scarecrow Contest at the EDHCSD pavilion lot on Harvard Way, 4:30-7 p.m. For more information visit edhcsd.org.

Myka Estates in Apple Hill will host the Fall Collective Wine Club Release Party from 11a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information visit mykaestates.com.

Cantiga Wineworks, 5980 Meyers Land in Somerset, is having Happy Hour with Fritz on Fridays from 3-6 p.m. Come for the wine, stay for the games, conversation and community. For more information call (530) 6211696.

Hangtown Village Square in Placerville will host a Fall Festival with a kid’s costume contest, games, prizes and more from 4-7 p.m.

El Dorado County Historical Society and Fountain and Tallman Museum presents Whispers of the Past:

Promoting literacy one dictionary at a time

News release

The Rotary Club of Cameron Park

continued its longstanding tradition of promoting literacy through its annual Dictionary Project, bringing the joy of learning to local third graders.

One of the club’s favorite youth service projects, the e ort ensures every thirdgrade student in the Cameron Park area receives a personal dictionary to support their education and curiosity.

In October, members distributed 360 dictionaries to students in classrooms across eight local schools: Blue Oak, Buckeye, Rescue, Green Valley, Latrobe, Holy Trinity, California Montessori Project–Shingle Springs Campus and the El Dorado County O ce of Education.

But it’s much more than just a dictionary. Inside, students discover facts about countries, states, Earth and the atmosphere, along with a multiplication table, periodic table of elements and even a sign language chart. What truly

captures their imagination is the animal section, where they learn about creatures in their natural habitats — and the surprising fact that the longest word in the English language has 1,909 letters.

“It’s always a joy to see their smiles as they explore new words, facts and ideas,” said Project Chair Kathy Thompson.

The annual literacy project reflects Rotary’s commitment to supporting education and empowering young minds throughout the community.

In addition to Thompson, volunteers Adam Marshall, Dave Sargent, Joe Ryan, Dan Gott, Marlyn Pino-Jones, Don Fuller, Sid Bazett, Tom Elken, Gary Clarke, JoEllen Brooks, Gina Posey and Laurie Edwards helped deliver the gift of learning to local students.

The Rotary Club of Cameron Park meets Thursdays at 12:15 p.m. at the Cameron Park Community Services District, 2502 Country Club Drive. For more information about Rotary or upcoming community projects, visit cameronparkrotary.org.

Area Gov. Don Fuller, Debbie Powell, President Adam Marshall, Justin and Syndie Marshall, RUSD Assistant Superintendent Dustin Haley, Superintendent Jim Shoemake, Pleasant Grove Middle School Counselor Lauren Todoroff and Assistant Principal Greg Lambrecht, from left, honor Student of the Month Marshall Warner, with a certificate, at a Rotary Club of Cameron Park award presentation event Oct. 9.

An earned honor

On Oct. 9, the Rotary Club of Cameron Park recognized Marshall Warner, an eighth-grade student at Pleasant Grove Middle School, as Student of the Quarter.

During the award presentation, Rescue Union School District Superintendent Jim Shoemake commended Warner for making a real impact on his school and community through leadership and dedication. Pleasant Grove Middle School Counselor Lauren Todoro said Warner truly embodies Rotary’s motto of “Service Above Self” in his daily actions.

Warner is a talented musician described as a “rock star” by Todoro . He has been a valued member of the school’s jazz band for two years and the school band for three years, and this marks his third year performing in the annual talent show. Last year, he served in the school’s WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) mentoring program, helping new students feel welcomed on campus.

In addition, Warner is the founding leader and current president of the Hands4Hope Club, a program that encourages youth leadership and community service. Outside of school, he is a dedicated member of the Aqua Sol Swim Team, practicing two hours each day.

Academically, Warner continues to excel, maintaining a 3.67 GPA while balancing coursework, community service and extracurricular activities.

In recognition of his achievements, Warner received a certificate of achievement and a Barnes & Noble gift card. The Rotary Club of Cameron Park congratulates him on this well-deserved honor.

To learn more about the Rotary Club of Cameron Park

‘SNO-CIETY’ celebrates the culture behind winter adventure

AKE

LFor generations of skiers and riders, the start of winter doesn’t come with the first snowstorm. It arrives with the newest Warren Miller film.

This year, that tradition continues with “SNO-CIETY,” the 76th feature from Warren Miller Entertainment. The film celebrates the culture, community and shared obsession that bind snow lovers everywhere — from backcountry explorers to weekend warriors.

Local audiences can catch “SNO-CIETY” during its Northern California and Nevada tour stops: Oct. 29 and 30 at the Olympic Village Events Center in Palisades Tahoe, Nov. 1 at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts in Reno, and Nov. 2 at Bally’s Lake Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe.

Since Warren Miller’s first film premiered in 1949, his name has become synonymous with the spirit of skiing. Each fall, the release of a new Warren Miller film marks a kind of pilgrimage — a chance for the snow community to gather, relive past adventures and dream about the season ahead.

This year’s film doesn’t just capture the thrill of deep powder or the perfection of a first run. It looks at the broader picture — what happens when snow becomes a way of life.

The filmmakers describe “SNO-CIETY” as an exploration of the “tight-knit community, shared rituals and sense of belonging that come with snow culture.” The film takes audiences from

the Scottish Highlands and Finnish city streets to the bowls of Whitewater, British Columbia, and a transformed hill in downtown Denver that serves as a playground for local riders.

“This film is a deep dive into the culture behind the sport,” said Josh Haskins, Warren Miller executive producer.

“It captures the humor, approachable personalities and memorable moments that make our community so unique. It is a celebration of what binds us together.”

That theme of togetherness has always run through Warren Miller’s work. From ski bums swapping stories in lodges to Olympians training on far-flung peaks, the films have consistently focused on what makes mountain life so magnetic.

“SNO-CIETY” continues that legacy, blending breathtaking cinematography with lighthearted storytelling and the trademark humor that has made the series endure for more than seven decades.

The film features a diverse mix of athletes and personalities, including Olympians Daron Rahlves and Breezy Johnson, snowboarder Sarka Pancochova, skier Chris Rubens, freeride star Todd Ligare, and up-and-comers Britta Winans and Judd Henkes. Each segment reveals how snow connects people across borders and generations.

One of the film’s most striking elements is its attention to the quieter parts of mountain life — those small moments that capture the joy of the season. Whether it’s kids hitting

rails in a Denver park or friends navigating a powderfilled back bowl in British Columbia, the film highlights the bonds that grow through shared adventure.

For many in Tahoe and Reno, the arrival of a new Warren Miller film has become an annual ritual — part preseason pep rally, part community gathering. Screenings typically include giveaways, sponsor booths and athlete appearances, creating a lively, festival-like atmosphere that mirrors the energy of the slopes.

The “SNO-CIETY” tour launched Oct. 18 with a world premiere at Abravanel Hall in Salt Lake City before setting

off for more than 300 cities across North America and internationally. Each stop is designed to celebrate the start of the season and the enduring appeal of mountain life.

As always, Warren Miller Entertainment partners with some of the biggest names in outdoor sports. The 76th annual film and tour are supported by adidas TERREX, Aberfeldy Scotch Whisky, Atomic, Scout Motors, Oakley, Sorel, Sun Valley Resort, FlyLow Gear and Glade Optics.

For longtime fans, “SNOCIETY” offers a return to familiar terrain — a love letter to winter and the people who

live for it. For newcomers, it’s an invitation to join a global community built on a shared passion for the outdoors. Though the film is filled with breathtaking locations and technical feats, its message is simple: winter is more than just snow. It’s the laughter between runs, the stories told over après drinks, the anticipation of that first chairlift ride each season.

From Palisades Tahoe to Reno and South Lake, “SNOCIETY” brings that message home — reminding audiences that even in the chill of winter, it’s the people who make the season warm. For tickets and showtimes, visit warrenmiller.com.

Haunted Carnival and Dia de los Muertos celebration in Tahoe

NCLINE VILLAGE

I— The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino will transform into a Halloween wonderland this month with the return of its family-friendly Haunted Carnival, followed by a weekend of live music and traditional flavors in honor of Día de los Muertos.

The Haunted Carnival, set for Friday, Oct. 31,

from 3 to 9 p.m. in the resort’s Regency Ballroom, will offer games, crafts, treats and spooky fun for all ages while raising funds for the Incline Education Fund’s “Step Up for STEM” program.

“We are so excited to welcome our local community and resort guests to the Haunted Carnival this Halloween,” said Andrew De Lapp, resort manager at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe

Resort, Spa and Casino.

“Guests of all ages can enjoy carnival games, crafts, tasty treats and Halloween-themed activities, all while supporting a fantastic local organization.”

Admission is a $10 donation, which includes five carnival tickets for games and activities. Additional tickets will be available for $1 each, and parking validation will be provided for the resort’s self-parking lot.

Families can enjoy a bouncy house, photo booth and classic carnival snacks like popcorn and cotton candy. A haunted house designed for older children and adults will add a dose of fright to the festivities.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Incline Education Fund’s “Step Up for STEM” program, which supports science, technology, engineering and math education across local schools. The

program has helped fund makerspaces at Incline Elementary, robotics at Incline Middle and engineering and entrepreneurship programs at Incline High.

Following the Halloween fun, the resort will continue its seasonal celebrations with a Día de los Muertos event at Cutthroat’s Saloon, featuring a themed menu and live mariachi performances.

“We look forward to welcoming guests to join us at Cutthroat’s Saloon in celebrating the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos,” said William Stout, director of food and beverage at the resort. “Through vibrant flavors and heartfelt celebration, we hope to honor a meaningful cultural tradition that celebrates both life and remembrance.”

The special menu will be available from Friday, Oct. 31, through Sunday, Nov. 2. El Trio de Dos, a local mariachi band originally from Mexico City and now based in Sparks, Nevada, will perform each evening from 7 to 9 p.m. Dishes will include Chile en Nogada Relleno, Shrimp Esquites Corn Soup and Huitlacoche Sope, along with Pan de Muerto, a traditional sweet bread served with orange blossom water. The menu will also feature cocktails such as the Smokey Sout made with mezcal, a Jamaica Hibiscus Margarita and the espresso-based Carajillo. For details about the Haunted Carnival, email TahoeAdventures@ hyatt.com.

Forcing bulbs

Now that I have written this article, I will force some springblooming bulbs this season.

The most commonly forced bulbs, which have the best chance of success, are belladonna lily (Amaryllis belladonna); paperwhite (Narcissus tazetta); daffodils, also known as Narcissus; hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis); crocus; and tulip. This article will highlight the first three, as they are most popular. Pick bulbs that are solid, firm and have no injuries or nicks. Larger bulbs will produce larger blooms.

The timing of the forcing process depends on the flower bulb. Narcissus, crocus, hyacinth and tulip require chilling, which simulates natural growing conditions necessary to initiate flower buds and blooms at the desired time. For all bulbs, use a container without holes. Substrate the bottom with marbles, glass pebbles or rocks.

Kit Smith UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

Fill the container with water to the top of the pebbles. Check the water level daily and add water when it no longer touches the bulbs. Replace the water if it becomes dirty or as needed.

Start forcing amaryllis six to eight weeks before the desired bloom. The size of the container should be about 1 inch wider than the widest part of the bulb and twice its height. Place the bulb in the pebbles, leaving the top onethird exposed. Keep the container in a sunny place with temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees. Within a month, there should be some growth. After

the bulb first flowers, move the container out of direct sunlight for longer flowering times. The amaryllis will bloom for four to eight weeks under the right conditions.

Paperwhite, especially the variety “Paperwhite Ziva,” is popular for forcing indoors.

Narcissus papyraceus, another species called paperwhite, is known for its fragrant clusters of tiny white, yellow or orange flowers. The Narcissus genus also includes daffodils and jonquils. To get started, store bulbs in a dark, dry place at 50 to 60 degrees until the stem is about 1½ inches tall. Then, place bulbs on the pebbles with their bottoms touching the water. Use a sturdy container because these bulbs can produce up to three stems. Keep the container in indirect sunlight until the stem is about 4 inches tall and there is some foliage. When the bulbs start flowering, move the container to a cooler area to prolong the blooms. The bloom time is five to six weeks.

To force daffodils, place bulbs in a paper or open plastic bag in a dark, cool location such as a refrigerator at a consistent 40 to 45 degrees. Chill for eight to ten weeks. Keep the bulbs away from ripening vegetables and fruits such as pears and apples that give off ethylene gas, which can hinder flowering. Then, place the bulbs on water in a container. When stems reach about 2 inches tall, move them to low light at 50 degrees. Once roots start to grow, gradually move the container from filtered to brighter light over four weeks to acclimate. Water as necessary. They will bloom in about six weeks.

For more information and tips about forcing bulbs, the UC Master Gardeners of Fresno have a helpful article titled “Forcing Bulbs for Beautiful Indoor Blooms in Winter,” which can be found by searching for the title on ucanr.edu. Enjoy your spring flowering indoors!

For more information about UC Master

Gardener classes, events and garden resources visit mgeldorado.ucanr. edu.

For garden hours and activity information for the Sherwood Demonstration Garden visit ucanr. edu/sites/EDC_ Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden. Have a gardening

question? Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website or leave a message at (530) 621-5512.

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

The Midtown Halloween Festival & Pooch Parade is coming

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

SACRAMENTO — Presented by Midtown Sutter, the Midtown Association announces the return of a four-footed favorite: the Midtown Halloween Festival & Pooch Parade on Saturday, Oct. 25, from noon to 3 p.m. at James Marshall Park, 915 27th St.

Each year, Midtown Sutter restaurants including Barwest, Blue Cue, Café Bernardo, Centro Cocina Mexicana, Four Palms, Harlow’s, The Historic Star Lounge, Lock & Key Tapas + Bar, Octopus Baja, Paragary’s Midtown and Tea Bar & Fusion Café partner with the Midtown Association for the canine-friendly event. Highlights include the muchanticipated Pooch Parade at 2 p.m., where furry friends will strut and stroll while competing in a costume contest with prizes including Midtown Sutter gift cards and Midtown Love swag.

The parade of costumed pooches will be emceed by Patrick Harbison of PHPR. Judges include Lock & Key Tapas + Bar owner Will Walton and

California State Assembly member Maggie Krell of the 6th District. Before and after the Pooch Parade, visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities such as spooky music by DJ SANZ, a mini pumpkin patch with free small pumpkins while supplies last, pumpkin painting, caricature art, face painting, photo-friendly pet backdrops and free dog vaccinations provided by Fosters & Paws. A professional pet photographer will be on site for fee-based photo sessions, and visitors can purchase food from Midtown Sutter favorites Barwest and Lock & Key.

The Midtown Halloween Festival & Pooch Parade is free to attend. Participants and pet owners are encouraged to register in advance.

The festival and the Midtown Farmers Market are presented and supported by the Midtown Association, which is committed to keeping Midtown a thriving center for culture, creativity and vibrancy.

Midtown Sacramento offers numerous public transportation options and is walkable and bike, scooter and car-share friendly. Parking is available in nearby

Oakstone Winery celebrates harvest

News release

Oakstone Winery will celebrate the fall harvest with a special tasting weekend Nov. 1-2, featuring its fourthquarter wine club releases.

Visitors can enjoy seasonal bites and sample new wines during the Fair Play Harvest Wine Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Non-

members can participate for a fee, which includes a seasonal cheese plate. Wine club members attend free and receive an extra pour from the winemaker’s secret stash.

The winery encourages guests to bring friends, wear a sweater and enjoy the autumn scenery in the foothills.

For more information or to become a member visit oakstone-winery.com.

garages and lots throughout Midtown. For more information on Midtown Sacramento, special events and activities, and the Midtown Association visit exploremidtown. org or follow on social media at Facebook.com/exploremidtown and @ExploreMidtown on Instagram and X.

About Midtown Sutter Midtown Sutter is an eclectic collection of restaurants, bars, hotels and nightclubs in vibrant, easily

accessible Midtown Sacramento, bordered by Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, Winn Park and Marshall Park. Popular with locals and visitors, Midtown Sutter includes Barwest, Blue Cue, Café Bernardo, Centro Cocina Mexicana, Four Palms, Harlow’s, The Historic Star Lounge, Lock & Key Tapas + Bar, Octopus Baja, Paragary’s Midtown and Tea Bar & Fusion Café. For more information, call (916) 452-1500 or visit exploremidtown.org.

Golden Rose, Judy Muetz said, “It is always fun downtown Placerville on Halloween night!”

The El Dorado Rose Corporation has existed since 1976, when the El Dorado County Fair began an event in which a mature woman from El Dorado County, dressed in period clothes from 1849 to 1910, is chosen to represent the county. The Golden Rose is selected if the El Dorado Rose cannot fulfill her duties because of family hardship or disability.

But that doesn’t stop Judy from joining the festivities every year on Oct. 31. She and her husband, Mike, attend annually.

This year, downtown Placerville will host a Halloween carnival at the Bell Tower, along with the annual costume contest, pumpkin painting and apple donut-eating contests, and “treats” offered by some Main Street stores. The event runs from 4 to 6 p.m. and is open to adults, families and individuals for a night of family fun.

As for the El Dorado Rose and her court, their elegant clothes are considered a “costume,” too.

TSacramento food banks receive $195,500 in contributions

he PG&E Corporation Foundation is providing $1.12 million to local food banks, tribal food banks and senior meal programs to help feed the growing number of individuals and families struggling with food insecurity. The contribution will provide the equivalent of about 3.13 million meals for individuals and families in need. The funding will support more than 50 food distribution organizations across 46 counties in Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s Northern and Central California service area. That includes 13 organizations in 10 counties in the Greater Sacramento area:

Amador County

Interfaith Council of Amador —

$14,000

Calaveras County

Resource Connection of Amador and Calaveras Counties — $8,800

El Dorado County

Food Bank of El Dorado County — $22,000

Nevada County

Food Bank of Nevada County — $15,000

News release

SACRAMENTO — With the school year just getting into full swing, California State Parks, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and the California Natural Resources Agency are inviting all fourth graders in California public schools to download the free California State Park Adventure Pass. The pass gives students and their families a full year of free entry to 54 state parks, from sandy beaches and desert canyons to majestic redwood forests and historic sites.

Championed by the First Partner, whose California for All Kids initiatives support children’s physical, mental and social-emotional well-being, and the Newsom Administration’s Outdoors for All initiative, the Adventure Pass expands the opportunity for fourth graders and their families to connect with nature, each other and their communities. The pass for this school year’s fourth graders is valid through Aug. 31, 2026. To date, more than 89,000 passes have been distributed, giving California fourth graders new opportunities to explore the state’s parks.

“As a mom, I know how much time

Placer County

Placer Food Bank, aka Feeding the Foothills — $20,700

Sacramento County

Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services — $20,000

San Joaquin County

Emergency Food Bank of Stockton — $18,200

Second Harvest Food Bank of San Joaquin and Stanislaus County, aka Second Harvest of the Greater Valley — $18,200

Second Harvest of the Greater Valley for senior meals — $10,000

Yolo County

Meals on Wheels of Yolo County —

$7,500 Yolo Food Bank — $14,300

Yuba/Sutter

Agency on Aging — Yuba Sutter Meals on Wheels — $10,000

Yuba-Sutter Gleaners Food Bank —

$16,800

Officials with the California Association of Food Banks said PG&E’s support is more important than ever.

“The California Association of Food Banks is incredibly grateful for PG&E Corporation’s ongoing

in nature shapes a child’s health, happiness and love for the outdoors,” Newsom said. “The California State Park Adventure Pass has opened the door for more kids and families to experience the joy and benefits of our beautiful state parks. I encourage all public school fourth graders and their families to take advantage of this opportunity and explore all the incredible natural treasures California has to offer.”

“California’s state parks are true wonders of nature and human history,” said State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “The Adventure Pass is an invitation to fourth graders and their families to discover the world of California. It’s your home.”

“California’s natural treasures belong to all of us,” said California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot. “By opening our parks to public school fourth graders at no cost, we’re investing in healthier kids, stronger communities and the next generation of stewards who will care for the Golden State’s wealth of natural and cultural resources.”

Obtaining a free California State Park Adventure Pass online is simple. A parent or guardian can visit the California State Parks website or call (800) 444-7275, where Spanish-

partnership in our mission to end hunger in California,” said Stacia Levenfeld, CEO of the California Association of Food Banks. “This support is especially vital during these uncertain times, with federal cuts to SNAP at the same time Medicaid and other crucial program funding is being reduced. Families will look to food banks as a source of relief to ensure they don’t go without essential nourishment.”

“An increasing number of families today are struggling to put food on their tables, and we are grateful to be able to help,” said Joe Wilson, vice president of PG&E’s North Valley and Sierra Region. “We’re proud of our longstanding partnership with local food banks and meal distribution organizations. These communitybased groups are a critical safety net for families, the elderly and many others in helping to ensure they are fed and can lead healthy lives.”

Grant amounts consider county poverty and unemployment levels, using the California Department of Social Services’ formula, to promote equity among counties with higher need. Funding comes from PG&E shareholders, not customers.

Supporting emergency preparedness

In addition to support for local food banks, PG&E has agreements with 25 food banks in high fire-risk areas to

speaking customer service is available. If they do not already have a ReserveCalifornia account, they can create one by providing their name, address, phone number and email. After completing the form, the pass is emailed immediately and can be used right away at any of the 54 participating parks.

Families without access to a smartphone, computer or printer, or without an email address, can request a pass at a State Parks Pass Sales Office or by calling (800) 444-7275.

Some of the parks included in the program:

• Henry W. Coe State Park near San Jose, which preserves 87,000 acres of scenic hills and mountain ridges with more than 250 miles of trails.

• Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park in the Central Valley, the only California town founded, financed and governed by African Americans, with guided and selfguided tours available.

• Silver Strand State Beach in San Diego, offering swimming, surfing and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay.

• Chino Hills State Park near Los Angeles, with hiking trails and a Discovery Center featuring wildlife and biological exhibits.

The California State Park Adventure Pass program was made possible by

provide food replacement during and up to three days after a Public Safety Power Shutoff. PSPS events may be called when dry, windy weather is forecast, and PG&E may need to turn off power in certain areas to prevent wildfires and keep customers safe. Meals on Wheels delivers meals to seniors enrolled in the program. Seniors who are enrolled and experience a PSPS will receive an extra meal for each day of a PSPS outage.

PG&E also opens Community Resource Centers during PSPS events to provide basic supplies, charging stations and information to customers. Transportation support, hotel accommodations and discounts may also be available.

About The PG&E Corporation Foundation

The PG&E Corporation Foundation is an independent nonprofit, separate from PG&E and sponsored by PG&E Corporation.

About PG&E

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.

Assembly Bill 148, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in July 2021. The pass is valid for the one-year period during which a child is in fourth grade or fourth-grade equivalent and attends a public school, from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31. It also serves as an educational tool for teachers, encouraging students to extend classroom learning into state parks.

The Outdoors for All initiative champions the right of all Californians to access recreational opportunities and enjoy the state’s cultural, historical and natural resources. Many Californians currently cannot access public outdoor spaces or the state’s museums and cultural sites. Expanding access helps build healthier communities and stronger connections to nature and history, advancing Gov. Newsom’s commitment to a “California for All.” In addition to the Adventure Pass, Californians can use a California State Parks Library Pass with a library card to visit more than 200 participating parks. Families receiving CalWORKs benefits, individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income, income-eligible Californians 62 and older, and participants of Tribal TANF programs can apply for the Golden Bear Pass for access to more than 200 parks.

For more information on all three State Park Pass programs, visit parks. ca.gov/OutdoorsForAll.

Macabre Tales of the Bedford-Avenue-Clay Street

Historical District at 5 p.m. and again on Sunday at 10 a.m.

1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Join Victorianera guides for a journey into the shadowy side of Placerville’s past. This exclusive walking tour winds through one of the town’s oldest neighborhoods. For more information visit edchs.org.

The Sofia in Sacramento will host Jacam Manricks presents The Jacam Manricks Orchestra For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom hosts El Dorado Musical Theatre Presents Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s “Mary Poppins” through Nov. 2. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Blues guitar master Chris Cain will perform at 7 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.

Oct. 25

Holly’s Hill Vineyards and Brewery will host a Porchetta Panini Weekend from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the same time on Sunday. For more information

visit hollyshill.com.

The El Dorado County Fairgrounds will host a Family Night Out featuring a Pulled Pork Dinner & Gold Rush Classic Hog Show. from 5-7:30 p.m. For more information visit eldoradocountyfair.org.

Narrow Gate Vineyard will host a Harvest Food and Wine Celebration at 1 p.m. and again on Sunday. For more information visit narrowgatevineyards.com.

Crystal Basin Cellars will host a Bag Yer Own event with live music and Halloween party with Darth Mozart playing 6-9 p.m. For more information visit crystalbasin.com.

Ed Wilson will play at Frends Brewhouse in Folsom from 6-9 p.m.

Gwinllan Estate Vineyard and Winery will host a Spooktacular Afternoon of Elegance and Effervescence from noon to 3 p.m. For more information visit gwinllanestate.com.

Hangtown Thrash Presents: On Water + Death By Dishonor + Hidden Daggers + Phantom Spires from 6-11 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Dobra Zemlja Winery in

Plymouth will host the Tutu and Mustache Halloween from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dust off your tutus and grow out those mustaches and get ready for a spooktacular time celebrating Halloween Dobra style. For more information visit dobraz.com.

The Sofia in Sacramento presents Summer Night City. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre. org.

The Sacramento Choral Society presents Stained Glass at 7:30 p.m. featuring the jubilant energy of Vivaldi’s “Gloria,” the luminous beauty of Mozart’s “Regina Coeli” and the contemplative splendor of James Whitbourn’s “Requiem Canticorum” and “Lux in Tenebris.”

The performance will also feature

J.S. Bach’s “Concerto in D Minor” inspired by Vivaldi, and a rousing farewell organ solo by Dr. Ryan Enright. For more information visit sacramentochoral.org.

Oct. 26

The Mother Lode Lions will host a Fundraising Breakfast from 7-11am.. Bacon, sausage, eggs, pancakes, fruit, juice & coffee.

Located at the corner of Missouri Flat road and HWY 49. For additional information contact motherlodelions@gmail.com

FNS Productions Presents: Queer Community Social from 1-3 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

SEEKING CAREGIVER

Need someone to watch my 88-year-old mom who sits in a wheelchair most of the time, however she can walk. She feeds herself and can use the toilet alone. Need someone to work 10 to 12 hours a week, including one weekend day. Pay is $22 an hour.

Contact Jamie 408-781-5617

Thank you

Oct. 27

Win a Rollie Fingers signed Stat Ball and Hall of Fame card at Guess Orthodontics. Raffle open to all. Stop by the office at 893 Embarcadero Drive in El Dorado Hills and enter the raffle. Drawing will take place on Oct. 31.

Oct. 26

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento will host DIY Tarot Cards from 1-4 p.m. Delve into the rich symbolism of the tarot through the design and creation of your own tarot card using a blend of collage, ink, watercolors, and other materials. For more information visit crockerart.org.

Dr. Russell Jones is looking for DA/RDA for three days a week. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 8:00am to 5:00pm with 1 hour lunch. We are a private owned dental office located in Placerville. Our primary focus is on quality patient care while offering a fun, loving work environment. Please fax your resume to (530) 622-9575.

Sacramento area museums offer A spooky, family-friendly Halloween

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

SACRAMENTO — The greater Sacramento area is rich with an amazing array of state-of-the-art museums and historical sites that offer visitors the chance to explore California’s art, history and science treasures all year long. This fall, many members of Sacramento Area Museums are offering fun Halloween and harvestrelated events and activities. A sampling of the spirited activities is below, check with the various museums and destinations for other events and more detailed information.

39th Annual Safe & Super Halloween at Fairytale Town — Oct. 17-19

Children and their families are invited to Fairytale Town for its 39th Annual Safe & Super Halloween from 5-9 p.m. The beloved park will be magically transformed into the thrilling world of Auradon and the Isle of the Lost as attendees dive into the adventures of the Descendants for an enchanting Halloween celebration that promises fun and festivities – and trickor-treating – for the entire family. For more information visit fairytaletown.org

Acorn Day at the State Indian Museum — Oct. 18

In an effort to celebrate the cultural importance of the acorn and share a California Native American tradition

Know Continued from B5

Oct. 30

with visitors of all ages, the State Indian Museum is presenting a special Acorn Day event. Discover the environmental significance of California’s top keystone plant species and why the nuts they produce have been a culturally significant traditional food staple for California Native peoples since time immemorial. Acorn Day features demonstrations by California Native American partners and Elders, arts and crafts, educational booths, guided tours of the park and more. Learn more at facebook.com/ events/2154402441705466.

Trick Art Treat at the Crocker Art Museum –Oct. 25

Families are invited to a fun and spooky afternoon of Halloween-themed artmaking, storytelling and costume-filled adventure at the Crocker Art Museum. This festive event combines creativity, imagination and just the right amount of eerie excitement in a safe, engaging environment for all ages. For more information visit crockerart.org.

Pumpkins and planes

Halloween at the Aerospace Museum of California — Oct. 25

Visit the Aerospace Museum of California for a spooktacular event that blends aviation and Halloween fun for all ages. Enjoy interactive trickor-treating stations, craft activities, a spooky walk-

group or family.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Craftical Magic at 6:30 p.m. Conjure the spooky spirit on Halloween Eve and settle in for a screening of “Practical Magic” (1998) with your favorite craft in hand, or dig into charm-making and tarot readings. Explore the museum’s witchy side on a spirited docent-led tour and toast the night away at the margarita bar. For more information visit crockerart.org.

Placerville Senior Center will host a Trip Preview by Collette Vacations highlighting several trip destinations. For more information call Rebecca Johnson at (530) 621-6255

Oct. 31

Embrace the spooky spirit as El Dorado Hills Town Center transforms into a Halloween haven 3-6 p.m. Participating Town Center businesses open their doors for delightful trick-or-treating, creating a festive and safe environment for kids and families to enjoy. Join the excitement with a thrilling costume contest commencing at 5pm in the Steven Young Amphitheater. Categories include most creative, hero/villain or princess, cutest, scariest and best

through of the Jolly Green Giant and more. For more information visit aerospaceca. org.

Trunk or Treat at the California Automobile Museum — Oct. 25

The California Automobile Museum invites local families to enjoy a day of trick-ortreating, classic cars, seasonal snacks, museum exploration and even a haunted house. This event takes place inside and throughout the museum. Also included with the price of admission is all the candy you can eat, so be sure to bring trick-or-treat bags.

Now

The city of Placerville and T.W. Bonkers present Trick or Treat on Main in Placerville from 4-6 p.m. Enjoy trick or treating from business to business, costume contests, carnival games, spooky activities, face painting, a live DJ and more. Learn more at cityofplacerville.org.

Fairytale Town in Sacramento presents Trick-orTreating, Scavenger Hunts and Music in a whimsical setting from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information visit fairytaletown.org.

Visit the Sacramento Halloween Party Pub Crawl beginning at 6 p.m. in Midtown. For more information visit crawlwith.us/sacramento/ halloween.

Join the Sacramento Zombie Crawl beginning at 7 p.m. The crawl includes over 15 bars and continues on Nov. 1. For more information visit sacramentozombiecrawl.com.

The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera presents FINAL FANTASY XIV and XVI in Concert” at 8 p.m. and on Saturday at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 476-5975 or visit sacphilopera.org.

Public Notices 

For more information visit calautomuseum.org

Craftical Magic at the Crocker Art Museum — Oct. 30

Adults can conjure the spooky spirit on Halloween Eve and settle in for a screening of Practical Magic (1998) with their favorite craft in hand, or dig into charm-making and tarot readings. Explore the Crocker Art Museum’s witchy side on a spirited docent-led tour and toast the night away at the margarita bar. For more information visit crockerart. org.

Images of Hope El Dorado’s Banners on Parade online auction runs through Oct. 24. The colorful artist-painted banners that brightened Main Street Placerville all summer are now up for auction at givebutter.com/c/pgQJGV/auction.

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

Big Idea Theatre in Sacramento presents “Dorothea Puente Tells All” through Nov. 1. For tickets and more information visit bigideatheatre.org.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Eureka Day” through Nov. 16. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.

The Hands4Hope - Youth Making a Difference Warm and Fuzzy Campaign is collecting donations through Nov. 14. Donations can be dropped off at the blue barrel at the El Dorado Hills Youth Center. For more information or other donation options visit Hands4HopeYouth.org/warmfuzzydrive.

Trick-or-Treat at the Sacramento Children’s Museum — Oct. 31

Calling all ghosts and ghouls! Wear your favorite costume and come by for trick-or-treating and Halloween-themed activities from 10 a.m. to noon. Please note this event is entirely outdoors and the museum will not be open for play. Capacity is limited, so registration is required. This event is free with the donation of one new or gently used children’s book per family. Bring it with you to drop off at check-in on the day. For more information visit sackids.org.

The 2025 Toys for Tots El Dorado County/ Placerville campaign is underway and the iconic Toys for Tots campaign donation containers will start arriving at businesses throughout the county. The first in-person registration will take place Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Building, 130 Placerville Drive. For further Registration information and documentation requirements visit placerville-ca.toysfortots.org.

Pleasant Grove Middle School PTO is looking for vendors for its Holiday Makers Market happening on Nov. 15, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information or to apply visit tinyurl.com/mv7xy29s.

Applications are open to join the Placerville Public Art Committee. The new committee will include seven members representing the community, arts, design and local history. To learn more visit artsandcultureeldorado.org/public-art-committeeapplication.

Registration is open for Theater Classes for Littles (ages 4-6) at The Stage at Burke Junction. Classes led by Callista Angelli on Mondays from 2-3:30 p.m., Oct. 20 through Jan. 19. For questions or to register email callista_angelli@yahoo.com.