Hello,
I am from Placerville, California and I welcome you to the world of beekeeping. The first thing I think you should do would be to read some books on beekeeping, and yes try to hook up with a mentor. Someone who can show you a little about handling hives, etc. Find your local association and go to the meetings and find out about taking a beekeeping class. If you do all this, you will be ready for the next step and that is obtaining your equipment and bees.
Stay in touch here and post any questions you have. We are here to help you
Sincerely
Annette