Mountain Democrat, Friday, May 24, 2024

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Inspiration takes flight

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■ Local veteran receives once-in-a-lifetime trip

Eric Jaramishian

Sta writer

Residents of Gold Country Senior Living in Placerville curiously examined a display showcasing a recent adventure of a local veteran, resembling something of a museum exhibit complete with a collection of photos and other memorabilia.

On a couch nearby, veteran Therese Gilder and her friend Kathy Hatten recollected their time in Washington, D.C., where they spent three days together observing some of the nation’s greatest military exhibits, including the Korean, Vietnam and World War II memorials.

“I said, ‘God, a coward dies 1,000 deaths but the brave only die once. I’m going to throw myself out no matter what and not be humiliated and thrown out.’”

— Therese Gilder on her jump school experience

Gilder, 91, sports her U.S. Paratrooper hat decorated with memorial pins and proudly holds a certificate honoring her service in the military, which she was presented with during the trip. The once-in-a-lifetime experience was made possible for the veteran through the Honor Flight Network, which invited

■ See THERESE GILDER, page A11

John Poimiroo

Special to the Mountain Democrat

It began in Waterloo, N.Y., on May 5, 1866, as Decoration Day, a day on which its citizens decorated the graves of soldiers with flags and flowers while the town was dressed in mourning black, flags flown at half-sta and businesses closed.

That tradition, based on similar remembrances informally practiced in the South, was repeated the following year and continued until Waterloo joined other communities that had followed Waterloo’s lead by observing Decoration Day at the end of May. In 1968 President Lyndon Johnson designated the o cial birthplace of Memorial Day as Waterloo, N.Y.

Each year on the fourth Monday in May, the nation gathers on Memorial Day to mourn and remember its war dead, the soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who died in service to their country. The commemoration is particularly notable here, where on Monday, May 27, up to 2,000 county residents will gather at 11 a.m. at the El Dorado County Veterans Monument in Placerville, 300 Fair Lane, to honor and remember those who lost their lives serving the cause of freedom.

The Memorial Day ceremonies, conducted by the El Dorado County Veterans Alliance, have been acclaimed as among the best, largest, militarily correct and most respectful of any in California.

They include a fly-over and missing man formation by a squadron of World War II warbirds led by ■ See MEMORIAL DAY, page A8

Tahoe local chosen for D-Day Memorial Flight

■ Holocaust survivor headed to Normandy

Anna Kristina Moseidjord Tahoe Daily Tribune

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — American Airlines is honoring South Lake Tahoe local and Holocaust survivor Leon Malmed with a trip to France in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Malmed is one of 70 veterans on the trip, which will begin with a parade send-o in Dallas before a flight to Paris and then Normandy. According to American Airlines, “The trip will include visits to key historical sites, concerts and special ceremonies to honor the courage and sacrifice of all who served during World War II.” It will culminate in

a ceremony on June 6 in the Normandy American Cemetery.

“Somehow we (me and my wife, Patricia) have been chosen to join this group of 69 other people. I am so excited that we have the opportunity to get a deeper understanding of what happened on those beaches,” Malmed shared.

Born in France in 1937, Leon Malmed is a longtime South Lake local, author, speaker and cycling world champion.

Malmed’s book “We Survived … At last, I speak,” recounts his experience as a child in France during World War II. After his parents were taken from their apartment by Nazi foot soldiers, Malmed and his sister were hidden by their downstairs neighbors. It was not until the war was over that they learned their ■ See LEON MALMED, page A9

Placerville resident and veteran Therese Gilder, seated right, got the opportunity to

that presented

wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during her recent Honor Flight experience.

Therese Gilder became a paratrooper at 47, before the military instituted age restrictions.

Courtesy photo

Holocaust survivor Leon Malmed was hidden with his sister in France during World War II. Their parents died in Auschwitz.

Leon Malmed emigrated to the U.S. in 1964, living many years in Tahoe.

ESSENTIALS

Larry Bassham

Feb. 26, 1936 – May 3, 2024

It is with great sadness that the family of Larry Bassham announce his passing on May 3, 2024, at the age of 88, in Folsom, California. Larry was known by family and friends as a family man, storyteller, advisor, thoughtful and always eager to help.

Larry was born on February 26, 1936, in Sacramento, CA to Sacramento natives Al and Nadine Bassham in Land Park. While attending McClatchy High School Larry worked as a Soda Jerk at Vic’s Ice cream just down the street from the family home and graduated in 1954. Shortly after graduation, Larry was going to enlist in the Navy and with the recommendation from the president, he joined the Navy Reserves as aerospace engineers were needed. He attended the University of California, Berkley where he earned a Mechanical Engineering degree. While Larry was in school, he worked surveying Bridges for the State of California and was a member of the Theta XI Fraternity. In 1980, while working at Aerojet, Larry graduated from Golden Gate University with a master’s in business. After graduating from U.C. Berkley, Larry joined Aerojet General Corp. in 1959. While working at Aerojet Larry met Donna, a secretary for his team in 1960, and they married in 1962. While Donna was pregnant with their Second Child, they purchased a home in Crown Village El Dorado Hills in 1965, the first family in that neighborhood. In 1985 Larry helped design and manage the building of their trilevel home overlooking Folsom Lake in Marina Village El Dorado Hills.

Graduation from Berkley made Larry a prime engineering resource at Aerojet. He was destined to work up through the ranks from Advanced Research and Engineering Design to Marketing. During Larry’s early career at Aerojet, he worked on many state-of-the-art rocket programs including the Saturn V and Apollo programs. In 1974, Aerojet was awarded the Space Shuttle Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) storable propellant engine, and Larry was heavily involved in the design.

In 1984, President Reagan created the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI) programs, aka ‘StarWars’ to develop a missile defense system to protect the U.S. from attack by ballistic strategic nuclear missiles. Larry was selected as a program manager to develop SDI program propulsion systems and was later promoted to Program Director of all SDI programs. He was recognized as an industry expert on many propulsion technologies. Larry was Aerojet’s most visible propulsion researcher and presented technical papers at many international symposia. He was well known in Space Defense offices in Huntsville, and the Washington Department of Defense Offices. Amongst the many unique defense systems that Larry lead was the ExoAtmospheric Kill Vehicle (EKV), High EndoAtmospheric Defense Interceptor (HEDI), and Gelled Propellants and throttleable solid rocket motor technologies. When the cold war with the Soviet Union ended in 1991, most of these programs were terminated. The EKV program was spared with the throttleable solid rocket motor technology and is currently known as the Ground Based Interceptor (GBI). Throughout his career at Aerojet, Larry was recognized for his creative talents and marketing skills. He mentored many engineers to successful leadership roles at Aerojet and was known for his calm, yet highly influential demeanor.

Throughout Larry’s long career and into retirement Larry had a love for travel and golf. Some of Larry’s favorite destinations include England, Scotland, Europe, China, Africa and Japan. His love for golf started at El Dorado Hills Golf Course in the ‘60s and continued to Cameron Park Country Club in the ‘80s till today. His passion brought him to Volunteering at the famous 17th hole in Tahoe overlooking the lake at the Celebrity Golf Tournament and the AT&T tournament in Monterey.

Larry would call El Dorado Hills home along with Tahoe and Yosemite as he would spend time in all 3 every year from the early ‘70s till today. While living in El Dorado Hills, Larry was devoted to the community and family, volunteering time with Boy Scouts during his sons’ childhood and later volunteering at Hills Church. Additionally, he volunteered at the Sacramento Jazz Festival and Breast Cancer walk. Dev oted husband and father of three, Larry is survived by his wife Donna, of 62 years and his two sons, Kevin and Sean. He is also survived by six wonderful grandchildren who call him “Papa”, Brittany, Brianna, Brandy, Debbie, Dean and Colton, plus two great grandchildren Amelia and Jameson. Larry is preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie, in 1980. Memorial service will be 10 am, June 1, 2024, at Millers Funeral home Folsom, CA. An “Open House”, celebration of life will be at the family home in El Dorado Hills. Any questions, stories or pictures can be sent to lbasshammemories@gmail.com.

Peter Herman Ludwig Messimore

July 17, 1961 – April 21, 2024

Peter Herman Ludwig Wilhelm Messimore passed away April 21, 2024, at the age of 62, in Rocky Point, Oregon. He was born July 17, 1961, in San Mateo, California, to Peter and Gloria (Menner) Dorbandt. He leaves behind sister Renee Pew. For a complete obituary, please visit ohairwards.com.

Roger Alan Stutts

Aug. 19, 1948 – May 9, 2024

The most important human being we called husband, daddy, pop-pop, cousin, nephew, honorary uncle, buddy, and colleague is now resting in peace having passed at UC Davis Medical Center. He had two loves – his family and friends, and the U.S. Forest Service Institute of Forest Genetics (IFG) where he dedicated 40 years in the field studying and documenting pine trees, achieving “clipboard” Resource Manager status before retiring in 2008.

Roger Stutts was a literal stand out. Occupying five-foot eighteen inches (his favorite retort when asked “How tall are you?”), he towered in height, but lifted everyone he met with his gentleness, hearty laugh, and easy nature. His blue eyes always sparkled with love, mischief, and possibility. He never knew a stranger and flowed memorably into the company of anyone he met. Dedicated to helping others over a 28-year period, he proudly achieved his goal of donating over 50 gallons of blood, platelets, and plasma with BloodSource. An active member of his El Dorado High School Class of ‘66 reunion committee, he enjoyed monthly classmate lunches.

If there was a backroad, he’d find it, taking himself and later three restless kids on infamous “Dad Tours” or woodcutting adventures in his ‘77 Chevy. He always enjoyed family gatherings, great food, a cold beer, a blended margarita with a salted rim, and a glass or two of wine. He watched with pride as his kids excelled in volleyball, baseball, advanced art, and college and military graduation achievements. More recently, he even climbed bleachers to watch his granddaughters’ sporting events.

He was a Yankees and Raiders fan and loved sitting down to a game over a big bowl of popcorn and Pepsi. Later, with his sweetheart Lauri and wife of 50 years, it became a Friday night movie tradition with the addition of hot fudge sundaes! Beginning with his high school woodshop skills, he further broadened his knowledge of woodworking and carpentry. In 1986, his skilled hands built his family’s house, still called home to this day. He could always find a way to fix, build, and solve anything.

Louisiana born, California raised in Smith Flat, Roger loved living in Placerville for over 70 years. Thankfully, he grew up before there was video evidence of youthful indiscretions, like his “wanting to see the speedometer needle disappear” on Highway 50 in his beloved ’67 Chevelle Super Sport (nearly thrown into jail over that one)! In his older and wiser years, he was an informal member of the “city council,” spending many Sunday mornings over coffee with “like” members at Chuck’s or the Waffle House.

During his IFG era, Roger planted thousands upon thousands of trees across California and Oregon, having the distinction of overseeing the most trees planted at one site/one season in the history of IFG. He proudly led the State Capitol Christmas tree selection for several years and brought his “tall family” to meet governors Davis and Schwarzenegger for the ceremonies. He was featured on the show California Gold with Huell Howser, where he highlighted IFG supplying seeds to an Apollo astronaut to travel to space and back for scientific evaluation. Once returned to IFG, the seeds were propagated and became known as the “moon” trees. He loved his work, especially the camaraderie amongst IFG scientists and staff, tree climbing in the earlier years, nursery and plantation development and data recording, and travel within the United States and Mexico. It was never a job to him, except when things went digital. He was also known for his hat collection which wrapped several times around his office ceiling! After retirement, Roger established his Forest Services business and was contracted in 2016 to evaluate the health and site needs of several IFG research plantations in northern California and Oregon. He was grateful to see these amazing plantations once again after so many years.

Roger is preceded in death by his parents Clara Laverne Stutts and John Jesse Stutts, Jr., and mother-in-law, Happy Wallace. He is survived by his wife Lauri Stutts and his children Courtney Zuke, husband JT and stepdaughter Savannah; Sharon Durand, husband Mike and daughters Emma and Bailey; and Michael Stutts and daughter Amelia.

Heartfelt thanks to Oakmont of Folsom, Marshall Medical (Dr. Galang), and the UC Davis Medical Center Neurology Unit who cared for him in his final weeks. Private family graveside services will be held with a celebration of life for family and friends to follow.

Now, when you hear the wind playing through the pines, think of him...standing forever tall amongst the trees.

Joann D. Ricks

April 20, 1937 – May 15, 2024

Joann Ricks passed away peacefully at home in Diamond Springs, CA. Born in Bell, CA, her family moved to Oregon City, OR when she was seven where they operated a small farm.

She graduated from Oregon City high school in 1954, shortly thereafter she returned to California and attended college in Santa Monica.

After college she moved to Pollock Pines, CA where her parents had built a mobile home park. She took a job with local laborers union in 1958, which is where she met her husband Wayne Ricks.

In 1962 she took a job with the state, working at the EDD office in Placerville, where she retired from in 1997.

After retirement she devoted a lot of her time to the Pollock Pines Community Center and the Pleasant Valley Grange. She loved playing bingo and became quite the Nascar fan.

Joann was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis and Ruth Olson, her husband Wayne Ricks, her brother Jeff Olson, two sisters Judy Slater and Janet Jones and grandson Michael Bergstrom.

She is survived by three daughters, Sue Bergstrom, Debbie Pebley and Teresa (Andre) Derieux, her brother John Olson, six grandchildren, Kevin Bergstrom, Ashley Johnson, Travis Pebley and Brandon, Daren and Tyler Derieux, nine great grandchildren, Nathan and Ian Bergstrom, Kyrie and Mia Johnson, Harper, Talen, Fin and Max Derieux and Kyla Mae Pebley.

A Celebration of life to be determined at a later date.

Larry Rumble

June 4, 1951 – Nov. 10, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Larry Robert Rumble. He passed away on November 10, 2023 in Thailand while on a trip of a lifetime with his brother, Steve. Larry was 72 years old. Larry grew up in Southern California and was often heard bragging that he was a second generation native Californian. He enlisted in the Navy Construction Battalion after graduating highschool. Upon returning home, he joined the Steamfitters Apprenticeship and became a very sought after and talented welder. Larry and his family built a home on acreage in El Dorado County sufficient for dairy goats, horses, bunnies, cats, dogs, chickens, and guinea pigs. Life on the ranch suited him well. Later Larry moved to Davis, California-inviting no pets!!Later on in life, sailing became quite a passion for Larry as he and his son Chris purchased a sailboat together. Many hours were spent sailing and enjoying time together on the boat. As a grandfather, Larry just couldn’t do enough to be involved in his granddaughter and grandson’s life. He loved picking JT up from school, and taking Abby to Taylor Swift concerts. He was a huge supporter of the preschool Kelly and Whalley built, and was always available to ‘direct’ the work parties at their house. Family was very important to Larry. Larry was always willing to give new things a try. He was well known for his jovial and large personality, his quick witted humor, and the ability to break out in song at a moment’s notice. Larry is survived by his children Kelly and Chris, his grandchildren Abby and JT, his brother Steve, his ex-wife and good friend Cathy, and loving family members. A Celebration of Life will be held at Slide Hill Park, 2850 Temple Drive, in Davis, California on June 22nd at 10am. All are welcome to join in honoring Larry, sharing stories, and remembering all the happy moments spent with Larry during his life. Please RSVP or send questions to larryrumblesfamily@gmail.com

/ nstack@villagelife.net

Michael Edward Raffety

Oct. 23, 1946 – April 28, 2024

Michael Edward Ra ety, (the retired long-term editor of The Mountain Democrat), passed away April 28, 2024 at UC Davis Hospital in Sacramento. Michael was 77 years old. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Cherie Ra ety, and daughter Natasha Santos of Plymouth, son Wolfgang Ra ety, son-in-law Peter Santos, and daughter-in-law Rortveaktey Ra ety, and five grandsons: Alex, Evan, Leonidas, Michael and Lorenzo.

Eddie Thomas Keller June 6, 1941 – May 4, 2024

Michael, better known as Mike, was born Oct. 23, 1946 in Berlin, Germany. After World War II, Mike’s birth mother had di culty finding food for her son, so she put him up for adoption. (Think of the U.S. e orts to bring food to the Germans in the aftermath of WW II. It was a massive operation called “The Berlin Airlift.”) Lucky for Michael, Charles A. and Lois F. Ra ety arranged to adopt Mike and flew him to the United States of America where his new mother nursed him back to health. While in the eighth grade Mike became a naturalized citizen of the USA.

After graduating high school, Mike joined the Navy. The Navy sent him to electronics training on the East Coast of the United States. Then the Navy sent him on tour in the Mediterranean. Mike had a terrific time “basking in the sun.” Next, he was sent on a tour in the South Pole. That too was just another great adventure for Mike. He loved it. After his military service obligations were completed, he took some photography jobs and settled in California to continue his education. He studied art, art history and photography. He received several degrees including a master’s degree from California State University after his children were born.

Mike met his future wife Cherie when he was a reporter for The Mountain Democrat and Cherie Albusche was a candidate for the Los Rios Community College Board of Trustees. He interviewed her and they started dating. Within a year they were married on Oct. 18, 1980. Yes, Cherie won the election and Mike became a devoted family man.

Over the years, Mike attended almost all of his children’s sports games: whatever it was ... soccer, baseball, volleyball, or basketball. He also took the the two children to 4-H meetings and taught them on vacations how to swim. He always enjoyed their company. He found time for family despite the fact that he often had two jobs, one full-time at The Mountain Democrat and another teaching art, or art history or photography or journalism for the Los Rios Community Collage.

Mike’s caring stretched beyond his immediate family. He cared about the community, his church and those less fortunate. He served as an American Legion Commander more than once and encouraged others to “honor those who served the cause of freedom.” Mike also served as President of the Mother Lode Lions three times. He supported their projects for kids and eyesight. He worked to get playground equipment at Indian Creek School. He supported the mobile eyesight van which was set up to give eye exams. Local optometrists volunteer to help the homeless (and others) with eyesight check-ups, glasses and referrals, if needed.

The work he did with the service clubs was a labor of love, he also liked the camaraderie.

Mike liked to travel and his wife did too. They saw, for instance, plays in New York City, Impressionist art in Paris, France, and the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg, Russia. They took a walking tour of the gardens of Japan and let the kids pick where they’d like to go in England, Spain and Portugal. But no matter where the Ra etys traveled, Mike was happy to come home to the beautiful Sierra Nevada foothills and his friends and neighbors.

The Celebration of Life for Michael Ra ety will be on Saturday, May 25, at 11 a.m. at the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour, 2979 Coloma St., Placerville. Parking is limited so it’s suggested that people park on Spring Street where parking spots are abundant.

All friends and family are also invited to the noon reception on May 25 which will be at the Mother Lode Lions Hall at 4701 Missouri Flat Road in Diamond Springs.

Eddie Thomas Keller passed away peacefully on May 4, 2024. Eddie was born and raised in Sacramento, CA. He descended from a long line of early California settlers and was very proud of his heritage. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie Jay Keller and Lois Pearl Lack, his siblings Bruce, Jeanneane and Walter, his wife Susan and his daughter Cheri. Eddie attended Sacramento High School and graduated in 1958. It was in high school that Eddie decided to devote his life to public service. He wanted to help people. He always knew that he would go to college to provide him the skills to fulfill his life’s mission. He first attended Sacramento City College in 1958. He then followed in his grandfather’s footsteps and attended Cal Berkeley in 1960 and graduated in 1962 with a BA degree in history. He then focused his studies on law at Hastings in San Francisco where he graduated in 1965 with an LLB Degree in Law. He then passed the CA State Bar Exam and decided to go into the Peace Corps. He lived in Chile for two years with the Alvarado family. His primary assignment was to help organize and advise credit unions to establish a strong financial basis for Chile. He had kept close contact with his Chilean family and returned to the country with his children to meet this wonderful family. In 1968 he started his career with the Attorney General’s O ce in Sacramento where he spent the next 21 years. One of the highlights of his career from his time at the AG’s o ce was a case called Keller v. California State Bar, which was heard at the U.S. Supreme Court in 1990 and won in a unanimous decision. In 1989, Eddie was appointed to the El Dorado County Superior Court as a judge. Here he served for 20 years as a highly respected community leader. He was also nicknamed “Killer Keller” as he quickly gained a reputation with being tough on crime. While being tough on those who deserved it, he was also lenient when the correct circumstances warranted it. In the community, he founded multiple groups including the Children’s and Family Network, Teen Court, Job One and others.In 1970, Eddie married his first wife Susan Yost White who had two daughters, Cindy and Cheri. He and Susan then added two sons, Dynan and Justin. They raised their family in the Georgetown Divide where their girls could raise animals and their boys would enjoy playing baseball. Eddie was a 4H leader, a baseball umpire, served on the BOMUSD School Board and was a part of the Rotary Club. His wife Susan passed away in 2006. He then married Davis Morrow in 2010. She has 2 children, Don and Denise from a previous marriage. Eddie’s extended family includes Cindy’s husband David Carroll and Justin’s wife Julie Metesser. Eddie also has 7 grandchildren Whitney (Michael), Logan (Briana), Taylor, Nicole (Steven), Cassandra (Michael), Kaylie and Lucas, as well as 10 great grandchildren. Above all, Eddie loved God, his country, his family and dear friends, who will miss him severely. Services will be held on June 7th at the Foothill United Methodist Church at 10:30 am, 3301 Green Valley Rd, Rescue, CA. Donations in Eddie’s name can be made to The American Cancer Society, the ASPCA or The American Battlefield Trust.

John Kinnick Brideson

June 10, 1935 – April 17, 2024

John Kinnick Brideson was born in Des Moines, Iowa on June 10, 1935 to Everett Lyman Brideson and Gertrude Kinnick Brideson He spent his younger years in Bayard, Iowa and moved to Sacramento, California at age 11. He passed away at the age of 88 on April 17, 2024 in El Dorado Hills, California. John is predeceased by his sister, Jeanette Brideson Shapley, son, Mark K. Brideson (Amy), granddaughter Sara R. Brideson and stepson Eric W. Yost.

He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Karen Lynne Brideson, his son, Matthew Brideson (Eric), stepson Robert G. Yost, grandson Eric M. Yost (Katie), granddaughter Cynthia N. Brideson, granddaughter Ashlyn K. Nichols, great granddaughter Kylie Peyton Yost and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was an active member of his beloved community and charitable organization volunteer, and a lifelong athlete. He graduated from C.K. McClatchy High School and UC Berkeley. John was an Insurance Broker for many years. After he retired, he became a master wood craftsman. He served in the U.S. Navy for over 20 years and retired as a Commander.

Services will be held at Park Community Church, 3901 Wild Chaparral Drive, Shingle Springs, CA on Saturday, June 8, 11:30 am. Donations can be made in John’s honor to Park Community Church.

John O’Brien

Aug. 7, 1932 – May 10, 2024

John passed away on May 10, 2024 in Placerville, CA at the age of 91. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Carole; children Damon O’Brien, Therese O’Brien, DDS, Mary Weiler (husband Dan Weiler); grandchildren Delaney and Sean O’Brien, René and Sophie Weiler. Though born in Southern California, John spent his formative years in San Mateo where he attended grammar school and Serra High School (senior class president)... from there to Santa Clara University (BS). Entering the military in 1954, he served in Orlean, France. While there John toured Paris, Normandy, The Black Forest, Munich, Benelux, Barcelona, Stockholm, Lourdes, and London. He spent five years as a sta o cer with American President Line’s Trans-Pacific (9 voyages) and round the world (5). John met Carole on the President Cleveland. His auto parts corporate career ended in 1990 as a Regional Marketing Manager for Champion Spark Plugs. Spectator sports was his main hobby with Notre Dame being his passion.

Forest Service offers tips for safe Memorial Day weekend

not be able to be crossed later as temperatures warm and waters rise.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE —

Memorial Day weekend, honoring the heroes who gave their lives in military service to this nation, also marks the kickoff of many visitors to national forests. The USDA Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit has provided the following helpful links and safety tips to ensure a safe Memorial Day weekend at Lake Tahoe.

Snow and ice conditions are still prevalent in the higher elevations. Backcountry and wilderness visitors are advised that directional signs and trails may not be visible in some areas. A paper map and compass are essential, along with sturdy footwear, proper knowledge, clothing and gear. Mobile devices may not work in some areas. Develop an emergency plan in case you cannot call for help. Use caution when crossing flooded areas and be aware that river, stream and creek levels can fluctuate rapidly. A stream crossed early in the day may

Expect Lake Tahoe beaches to be narrow due to high lake levels. Beaches with vegetation or rocky shoreline may be inaccessible. Arrive early to beat the crowds and use this opportunity to explore new areas.

Most National Forest beaches and campgrounds at Lake Tahoe opened in mid-May, but some backcountry campgrounds, recreation sites, forest gates and forest roads remain closed. Check opening dates on the LTBMU Current Recreation Conditions and be sure to reserve campsites in advance. Forest gates and forest roads and are in the process of opening. Check opening dates on the LTBMU Motor Vehicle Use Maps. Until gates and roads open, be sure to park vehicles off the roadway, avoid parking on vegetation and do not block access gates.

The Tallac Historic Site and Taylor Creek Visitor Center officially open May 29, but the trails and parking areas are open. Until these sites fully

,

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You have natural ability and a charisma that draws people in, but you don’t rely on these gifts because they are not the foundation of your success. It’s behaviors, habits and routines that will do all your heavy lifting.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You’re in a labyrinth of sorts. Don’t worry about getting it right. Just remember the truth -- this thing is just made of shrubs. At any point, you could get through them if you had to. For now, pay attention and keep moving.

GEMINI (May21-June 21). Fear is as normal a part of the human experiences as is having thumbs. Many people don’t have thumbs, and they are still as human as any because thumbs don’t define you. Fear shouldn’t either.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). People who say they are funny often aren’t. Also, people who say, “That’s funny” but don’t laugh can’t be trusted. The proof is in the embodiment of a thing. You’ll be amused at what you embody today.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). You’ll get a compliment and other validating signals that you’re on the right track. Avoid the temptation to bask in your glory. This is no time to relax. Stay focused on improving.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). People trust you. This is why you have enough information inside you to sink any one of your friends, associates or loved ones with one sentence. If tempted to tell, just know, it would hurt less to slip with your feet than your mouth.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You are performing at a high

level, but you can’t feel it because being inside you feels about the same as it has all along this process. Circumstances in the room, the condition of your tools, general nerves — they only enhance your show.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Try not to get hung up on perfection. Having a polished result won’t matter. Things are going fast. Your time is better spent solving a number of problems instead of trying to make one thing perfect.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). In the ever-changing world, knowing things can be overrated. Today you’ll end up throwing something you thought you knew out the window. This is, ultimately, where some knowledge belongs — jettisoned.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Even as a director, you can’t always control the direction the scene takes. Some actions have a force too strong for one person to thwart or even steer, but it can be influenced, nudged along to excellent effect.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). A quest is in order, but what’s

always

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Courtesy photo

Forest Service Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit News release

ELDORADO

What to expect for the 2024 recreation season

Kristi Schroeder

– Eldorado National Forest

Forest Service

U.S.

The summer recreation season has started on the Eldorado National Forest with a normal snowpack and warm temperatures. Crews have been busy preparing campgrounds below 6,000 feet in elevation and other sites for opening by removing winter debris and hazard trees, testing water systems, doing repairs and general clean up. Campgrounds above 6,000 feet in elevation are very wet or still have snow and will not open until later in June.

When planning your visit, here are some important safety reminders:

• Road Access: As the snow melts, storm damage may be discovered that affects road safety and access. Drive cautiously. Check alerts and road status on the forest website.

• Ice House Road Pavement Rehabilitation Project: El Dorado County will be reconstructing over 17 miles of Ice House road from Peavine Ridge Road to the northern intersection of Wentworth Springs road. Expect delays during the week from 30 minutes to an hour.

• Post-fire hazards: Fire killed trees are a hazard in the Caldor and Mosquito burned areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas with hazard trees that could fall especially on windy days. Drive safely and look out for large logging trucks.

• Cold/swift water safety: Rivers and streams are running high, fast and cold from melting snow. Lakes will be extra cold too. Hypothermia from exposure to cold water can be life threatening for you and your pets.

• Campfire permits: Obtain a campfire permit if you are not camping in a developed campground and check for fire restrictions which may affect your visit. California Campfire permits are free of charge online at readyforwildfire.org/ permits. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure campfires are drowned out before you leave.

• Bear safety: Proper storage of food and other scented items is essential to avoid bear-human conflict. Use metal storage lockers if provided. Bear

open, some services such as restrooms and trash removal are unavailable so plan ahead and pack out all trash. Where pets are allowed, always clean up after them and be sure to pack out doggie bags. Wildfire prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Residents and visitors should do their part to keep Tahoe wildfire ready. If you see something, say something by reporting illegal fire activity to 911 immediately. Learn how to get prepared, get informed and get involved at tahoelivingwithwildfire. com. National Forest lands at Lake Tahoe are under year-round fire restrictions. Wood and charcoal fires are only permitted within permanent, metal fire rings and grills in open, developed campgrounds. Unless restricted, portable stoves and appliances with on/off valves are allowed with a valid permit.

All types of personal use fireworks are illegal in the Lake Tahoe Basin because of the wildfire danger they pose to our communities. Please do Lake Tahoe forests a favor and leave fireworks at home.

Lake Tahoe is bear country. Help keep Tahoe bears wild by properly securing food, garbage and other scented items. Never approach bears or cubs; always keep your distance. Don’t feed bears or other wildlife; it’s illegal. Feeding wildlife encourages them enter human-occupied areas to seek out human food and garbage and disturbs their natural feeding habits. Bear canisters are required for overnight stays in Desolation Wilderness and are recommended in other backcountry areas. Visit TahoeBears.org and BearWise.org for more information on coexisting with bears.

Cold water shock is real and can be life-threatening. Visitors should

CA

Sunset Campground at Union Valley Reservoir opens today. Many other campgrounds also welcome campers during Memorial Day weekend; reservations are recommended.

resistant canisters are required when camping in Desolation Wilderness. Review food storage and safety tips at fs.usda.gov/visit/know-beforeyou-go/bears and bearwise.org.

Mormon Emigrant Trail (Iron Mountain Road) is not accessible all the way through to Highway 88 yet. Currently, the road is accessible only from Sly Park Road 5-8 feet deep. It is estimated that the snow will not be clear all the way to Highway 88 until at least mid-June. A large snow drift at the south end of Silver Fork road is blocking through access to the Mormon Emigrant Trail from Highway 50. The following is a list of open or planned to open for Memorial Day weekend facilities. Check current conditions on the forest website for the projected opening dates and status of other sites.

Crystal Basin/Icehouse Road: Planned opening May 24. On the Ice House Reservoir, Ice House Campground, boat ramp and picnic area and Strawberry Point Campground are expected to

exercise caution when swimming and participating in water activities at Lake Tahoe. Wearing a life jacket, even if you’re a strong swimmer, significantly increases your chance of survival. Visit fs.usda.gov/detail/ltbmu to learn more about cold water safety and how to prevent cold water shock. Trash and debris left behind can be harmful and even fatal to wildlife. It represents a human health hazard and degrades Lake Tahoe. Every year volunteers pick up thousands of pounds of trash left behind after holiday weekends. Plan ahead and bring a trash bag in case trash cans and dumpsters are full or not available. Become part of the solution. Pack out your own garbage. Learn more about Leave No Trace Principles at lnt.org.

Backcountry enthusiasts should always tell a family member or friend where they are going, when they expect to return, and stick to the plan. Always check the weather before heading out. Sturdy footwear, proper clothing and gear is essential, and an old-fashioned paper map and compass can come in handy. Always travel with a buddy, never alone. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly. Summers are typically warm in the afternoon and cold at night. Afternoon thunderstorms are normal and snow is possible during any month of the year. Be prepared for changeable weather and bring clothing that will keep you warm and dry. Always check the forecast before heading out and follow the National Weather Service on social media for the latest updates.

The Forest Supervisor’s office in South Lake Tahoe is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will be closed on Monday, May 27, for Memorial Day. Normal hours resume Tuesday, May 28.

El

open. On Union Valley Reservoir, Lone Rock Campground, Fashoda Campground and day use area, Wench Creek Family and group campgrounds, Yellowjacket Campground and boat ramp, Wolf Creek Family and group campgrounds, West Point Family and group campgrounds and boat ramp and three loops of Sunset Campground and boat ramp. In the Gerle Creek Reservoir area, Gerle Creek Campground and day use area, Angel Creek day use and Airport Flat Campground. Crystal Visitor Information Center will also be open.

Closed for 2024: Loon Lake Chalet Georgetown/Hell Hole area: Open now are Dru Barner Campground, Bear Creek picnic area, Brush Creek Reservoir boat ramp, Traverse Creek day use area, Donaldson staging area, Bald Mountain staging area, Balderston staging area and Mace Mill staging area.

Planned Opening May 24: Stumpy Meadows Campground, boat ramp and picnic area, Black Oak

group campgrounds, Ponderosa group campground, Big Meadows Campground, and Middle Meadows group campgrounds.

Highway 50/Silver Fork Road/ Sly Park corridors: Open now are Lovers Leap Campground and day use area, Sand Flat Campground, Pyramid Creek Trailhead, Pony Express Corral Trailhead, East Slab Creek Reservoir day use area, Caples Creek Trailhead, Caples Creek Equestrian Trailhead, Fleming Meadow Trailhead and Cedar Park Trailhead.

Planned Opening May 24: China Flat Campground and day use area, Silver Fork Campground and the Bridal Veil picnic area and group campground.

Closed for 2024: Gray Rock Camping Area will still be closed due to Caldor Fire damage. The Fleming Meadow Trailhead will be closed for renovation later in June.

North South Road/Highway 88/ Salt Springs: Open now are Pipi Campground and day use area, Salt Springs Trailhead.

Planned Opening May 24: Mokelumne Campground and White Azalea Campground.

Closed: Blue Hole Trail due to bridge damage. Silver Lake Campground will be partially closed this summer due to renovations. Closed in 2024 due to Caldor Fire damage: Capps Crossing group campground and day use area, Elkins Flat OHV trails and Martin Meadow Campground.

For the latest updates and more information contact the Visitor Services team at:

• Forest Supervisors’ Office: (530) 622-5061

• Georgetown Ranger District: (530) 333-4312

• Pacific / Placerville Ranger District: (530) 644-2324

• Amador Ranger District: (209) 259-3774

To stay updated on forest related information visitors should follow Eldorado National Forest on Twitter at twitter.com/eldoradonf and “like” on Facebook at facebook.com/ EldoradoNF.

Courtesy photo

OPINION

California Matters

How bursting state budget morphed into a deficit

The muchrevised 202425 state budget that Gov. Gavin Newsom recently released contains hundreds of spending reductions and other actions to close what he says is a $44.9 billion deficit.

Exactly two years earlier, Newsom boasted as the state enjoyed a $97.5 billion budget surplus, thanks to surging revenues from the postpandemic economic recovery.

“No other state in American history has ever experienced a surplus as large as this,” Newsom said as he unveiled a revised $300 billion 202223 budget, which was $14 billion higher than his original proposal.

The budget he signed a month later was even larger, $307 billion, with immense new commitments, including cash payments to poor families and expansions of health care and early childhood education.

So, one must wonder, how did a $97.5 billion surplus morph into a huge deficit and a budget that is pulling back much of the new spending Newsom and the Legislature had so eagerly approved?

The new budget takes a stab at answering the question, basically saying revenues fell well short of projections.

“Due to the revenue spike from 2019-20 to 2021-22, the budget acts of 2021 and 2022 were based on forecasts that projected substantially greater revenues in the last two fiscal years than occurred,” the budget declares.

However it doesn’t reveal why those erroneous projections were made in the first place.

According to the chart, the 2022-23 budget projected that revenues from the state’s three biggest sources — personal and corporate income taxes and sales taxes — would top $200 billion through 2025-26. In fact, however, they have fallen well short ...

In 2022, Newsom’s budget sta evidently looked at a spike in tax revenue as the state’s economy recovered from the pandemic, mostly due to massive amounts of federal relief funds, and concluded that the cornucopia would continue indefinitely.

That conclusion — or wishful thinking — led to extrapolating that a $97.5 billion surplus would emerge in 2022-23 and future years. However that number never appears in budget documents and

■ See WALTERS, page A7

The Not So Weekly Daley

Richard B. Esposito Publisher

Noel Stack Editor

Letters to the Editor

True empowerment

EDITOR:

I’ve come here to tell you that you aren’t broken goods; you’re just vintage. That the scrapes and scratches you think make you unlovable are what allow you to love people in inexplicable ways. They are what make you the irreplaceable soul you are today.

I am here to tell you how perfect you are. Not perfect in the way that a cube is the same length on all sides but perfect in the way that each tree has tenaciously grown its roots around immovable boulders and coarse gravel. Perfect in the way that its tough bark has distinctive scrapes and crevasses from withstanding unforgiving storms.

You are perfect in the way that you have grown from holding your ground during the storms, the humility, the struggle and the crushing disappointment. Perfect in the way that you didn’t let life push you around. Perfect in the way that with constant pressure, you stayed planted. Perfect in the way that when odds looked grim, you began to push even harder.

True empowerment is walking through the struggles, pain and adversity with a smile on your face. It’s knowing that no matter what life throws at you, you will keep walking forward. You will weather the storm with both feet planted. You are perfect in the way that your branches have grown from the unfathomable trials and tribulations that life has thrown at you.

RILEY SMITH

El Dorado Hills

What is Bidenomics?

EDITOR

We’ve heard President Biden state he inherited an economy that had 9% inflation. Nothing could be further from the truth. The inflation rate was 1.4% and didn’t start to rise until 2021 after Biden took o ce. He started his assault on the American economy by stopping exploration for fossil fuels on federal lands, turning out regulations that hamper business and passing legislation to spend over $4.2 trillion.

We don’t hear much about Bidenomics these days since his poll numbers are in the tank. We continue to experience some of the highest inflation in 40 years. The best description of Bidenomics is to spend borrowed money ($4.2

trillion) to fund socialist legislation, including the Inflation Reduction Act ($1.2 trillion), the CHIPS Act ($330 billion), the American Rescue Plan ($1.9 trillion) and the Infrastructure and Jobs Act ($780 billion).

It will be a miracle if we get 50 cents on the dollar return on this spending. There is a grab bag of spending, initiatives including extending healthcare access, $350 billion of spending on green energy initiatives and $350 billion in aid to state and local governments. Why are we giving borrowed federal money to state and local governments that are fiscally irresponsible?

The spending is over 10 years and is mostly new spending that depends on borrowed money. Former Clinton Treasury Secretary Larry Summers warned in 2021 that all this spending will drive up inflation. Which is exactly what happened. We have all experienced the inflation from higher gas prices to 20% increases in various grocery products.

The government has many ways to measure inflation but what do they mean?

The Consumer Price Index is constructed monthly using 80,000 items in a fixed basket of goods and services representing what Americans buy — from gasoline at the pump and apples at the grocery store to cable TV fees and doctor visits. The CPI was most recently calculated to be 3.4%. It hit a 40-year high of 9.1% in June 2022.

The Personal Consumption Expenditures index measures the change in prices for personal consumption items including purchases on behalf of consumers such as company health care. Core PCE excludes food and energy. The PCE rose by 8% from Q1 2022 to Q1 2024. The core PCE also rose by 8% over that period, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. It hit an annual high of 5.5% in February 2022.

The Producer Price Index measures the change in selling prices received by domestic producers. It rose at an annual rate of 5% for goods and 7% for services in April 2024. There was a 10% surge from 2021-23.

This gives us some idea of the magnitude of the price increases we are seeing for our purchases. It is driven by excessive government spending: too many dollars chasing too few goods. Interest on the federal debt is now $1 trillion, which is about $200 billion more than we spend on defense.

Enjoy the party.

You really had to be there; but be glad you weren’t

What do Red Finch and an alleged “14 year-old telephone prankster” have in common? And well you may ask. Being retired, I have a little more time than the average worker bee to keep up with the news. Perhaps even to the detriment of my brain, my soul, my self-esteem, my otherwise marginally sound health and more especially my sanity. Are you at all familiar with a CohenCostello-Colangelo-Citron cocktail of counselors or how about a BoveBlanche-Bragg-Biden beverage of barristers?

All of the above are characters in the Hush Money Trial of Donald J. Trump. (I include the president because the former president refers to him as “Crooked Joe Biden” and the nefarious puppeteer behind all the former’s legal woes, after just about every court

session, so he’s almost an actual participant and he is a lawyer by training.)

It’s getting hard to keep all these names straight, I know. So I’ll try to sort them out for you. Alvin Bragg and Matthew Colangelo are the Manhattan district attorney and one of his assistants, respectively. Michael Cohen and Robert Costello are important witnesses. Cohen, of course for the prosecution, Costello (possibly on both sides or neither) as best I can tell. Je rey Citron is a law partner of Costello and witness to a significant call or meeting in 2016.

Todd Blanche and Emil Bove (accent on the e) are the defendant’s defense attorneys. So is Susan Necheles but there’s no alliteration, so I didn’t include her in the drinks menu. My online search cites her as a top defense attorney who has represented one or more members of either/or the

legendary Gambino and Genovese families as well as prominent New York Republicans and Democrats. She’s a Democrat who voted for Hillary Clinton, the site further notes.

Susan Ho nger shares duties on the prosecution’s side. She’s part of a “woman-owned boutique New York law firm” appointed by the aforementioned Alvin Bragg. She led the prosecution’s e ort on witness Stormy Daniels, formerly represented (poorly, some say) by Keith Davidson (also representing last names beginning with a d).

The prosecution called its last witness Monday, possibly subject to new circumstances. It was Michael Cohen, again, and he delivered a “bombshell,” according to a number of reporters who were there. He admitted that he “stole $60,000” from the Trump organization. But, he explained, it was owed to him and rather overdue.

Blanche and company called Costello as the final one of only two defense witnesses. That esquire dissed and insulted Justice Juan

Merchan to such an “unheard of and unprecedented” degree, (according to numerous reporters and legal experts) that the justice cleared the courtroom and gave Costello a veritable tongue lashing for the ages.

The witness was far better behaved later Monday and again during Tuesday’s brief final session. The legal bo ns suggest that calling Costello had to be the defendant’s idea, as his otherwise “stellar” advisers, likely, would never have countenanced putting such a loose canon on the stand. I don’t know enough about lawyers to call them stellar, but those who do, have.

Jurors got their instructions Tuesday afternoon and the case could end next week. I would not want to be one of them. I’d probably have to go with the prosecution just based on all the documents and full bench of witnesses. The defense basically rested on the fact that Cohen is a convicted liar and chiseler and thief and dirty no-good meany, while Daniels and her

■

DARWIN THRONE El Dorado Hills

CHRIS DALEY

DAN WALTERS

Walters Continued from A6

was merely a verbal boast from Newsom.

A chart in the newly revised 2024-25 budget contains the pertinent numbers of the miscalculations.

According to the chart, the 2022-23 budget projected that revenues from the state’s three biggest sources — personal and corporate income taxes and sales taxes — would top $200 billion through 202526. In fact, however, they have fallen well short of that level every year since and are now expected to remain far below for the remainder of Newsom’s governorship.

“The total difference across the four fiscal years is a negative $165.1 billion,” the new budget declares.

That’s an enormous amount of money that Newsom thought the state would be receiving but didn’t — a phantom surplus that fueled unsustainable spending.

The administration was also not alone in assuming in 2022 that the state was on the verge of a big increase in budget revenues. The Legislature’s budget analyst, Gabe Petek, largely confirmed Newsom’s rosy 2022 projections, tabbing revenues from income and sales taxes to hit $214 billion by 2023-24, $36 billion more than the current revenues from those taxes.

Those who crunch numbers in the Department of Finance and Petek’s office are seasoned professionals who, we must assume, honestly believed that California’s treasury would overflow with cash.

Their error apparently reflected models for revenue forecasts that are outdated, particularly

when judging how wealthy Californians fare in taxable earnings on investments — a major but very volatile aspect of the revenue stream.

Newsom is proposing a couple of budget process changes to adjust for the volatility in addition to the current practice of setting aside rainy-day reserves. He would not spend spike revenues until they are actually in hand, and write budgets that look ahead to future years.

Those are steps in the right direction. Spending money based on volatile revenue estimates is not only foolish but cruel because — as this year proves — it raises expectations that later turn to pixie dust.

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

Daley

Continued from A6

lousy former attorney are not stellar either.

Coming full circle, Red Finch is allegedly a fairly suspect data gathering and manipulating enterprise that allegedly cooked up some bogus poll results for the former president. See Cohen testimony for more details.

The so-called “14-year-old telephone prankster” must have come up when I was doing something less mind-numbing than watching or reading the news. Again, see trial transcript for details.

Chris Daley is a biweekly columnist for the Mountain Democrat.

Announcements

AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com

AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net

AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org

El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net

LEARN & PLAY CRIBBAGE

Cribbage is a fun, fast paced game that will surely keep you on your toes! **All skill levels **Learn to play by ACC Rules (American Cribbage Congress) **Beginner instruction available **Compete in weekly Cribbage tournaments. Call 916-7684452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at Moni Gilmore Senior Center, 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.

GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575

HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Cindy 805-540-8654. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in Placerville at 10:00 am. For more information, call (530) 622-1180. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and have a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses. The meetings are held at 11:30AM on May 20, July 15, September 16, November 18,2024 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information. SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started.

TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.

Cameron Park’s Chuck Wahl; a parade of flags formed by El Dorado County veterans and youth organizations; a color guard ceremony presented by Civil Air Patrol Squadron 85, the Pledge of Allegiance led by veterans; a benediction and invocation by retired Army Chaplain Lt. Col. Tim Thompson; performances of patriotic music by the Ponderosa High School Chamber Choir directed by Craig Mason; placement of flowers on veterans’ memorials; presentation of a memorial wreath created by the Ponderosa High School chapter of Future Farmers of America; a three-volley rifle salute presented by a combined veterans rifle team; inspirational speeches presented by CalVet’s Deputy Secretary for Communications Thora Chavez, El Dorado County District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine and Placerville Mayor Jackie Neau; presentation of taps by bugler Lance Cpl. Victor Mansfield, USMC; and “Amazing Grace” performed by piper Sgt. Rob Roy, USA.

This year’s ceremony involves the dedication of 25 memorial bricks honoring veterans who served the cause of freedom, including several clusters of memorials honoring family members. Memorialized will be veterans of World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Cold War, Afghanistan War and the War on Terror.

The Thuesen family remembers 12 ancestors: Cold War Army Spec. 5 Allen Boam; Army Spec. Michael Thuesen; WWII combat engineer PFC Pedro Turey; Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Thuesen; Korean War 1st Lt. Peter Herman, USAF; Vietnam War Marine S. Sgt. Dennis Blair; Vietnam Silver Star recipient Cpl. Thomas Thuesen, USMC; WWII Pvt. Lupe Turey, USA, who was killed in action in France; WWII Navy Seaman 1.C. Joseph Brown who was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries while driving a Higgins landing craft at Iwo Jima; Navy Hospital Corpsman PO3 Gary Hughes who served in Vietnam; and WWII Merchant Marine Captains

George Thuesen, Sr. and George Thuesen Jr., the latter of whom received a Silver Lifesaving Medal for his heroics during WWII and was appointed by Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz at war’s end as second in charge of relief efforts in Japan. His last assignment was fatal, as Capt. Thuesen died in 1951 from radiation exposure after walking through the atomic ash of Nagasaki.

The Ford family remembers Cpl. M. Earle Ford a Marine rifle expert in the mid 1950s and Army Pvt. Tyler Ford who served during the War on Terror. Memorial bricks will be dedicated honoring Korean veteran Army Cpl. Richard Allured and Afghanistan War Marine Sgt. Geoffrey Merker. Additionally, bricks memorializing the service of Lance Cpl. Terry Gates, USMC; Korean War veteran Cpl. William Marden, USA; Vietnam Navy veteran BT1 Timothy Johnson; and WWII/Korean veteran Army Sgt. William H Ihde.

Individual memorial bricks honor Korean War Bronze Star recipient Sgt. John Peyron, USA; Vietnam War Army vet Spec. 4 Steve Gatchet; AB2 George Bishop, USN who served on USS Yorktown; Air Force dog Handler M. Sgt. Gary Johnson; and Korean and Vietnam war veteran M. Sgt. Thomas McNelis, USAF.

“The El Dorado County Veterans Monument is exceptional in that it honors any veteran with a connection to El Dorado County whether living or dead,” Veterans Alliance President Gary Campbell explained. “That includes friends, family and comrades in arms, even if they have never lived here. This allows families to honor and remember the service and sacrifices of generations of family members, and veterans to remember friends and comrades in arms who’ve gone before them. As such, we have over 2,000 memorials going back as far as the French and Indian War.

“There’s a brick honoring a high school classmate of an El Dorado Hills resident there,” Campbell

continued. “That vet died after being paralyzed in Vietnam. He was not welcomed on his return and had no family to care for him. Alone and despondent, he died shortly thereafter.

For all veterans, like him, who were never welcomed home, we’re planning bronze statuary that will forever commemorate the welcome every veteran deserves, but many never got,” he concluded. “We need the community’s help in funding its $200,000 cost. Every donation helps.” Find more about the “Welcome Home” project and how to contribute at eldoradocountyveterans. com.

A highlight of every Memorial Day ceremony is presentation of Veterans Monument Scholarships by the El Dorado County Veterans Coalition. This year, $12,000 in scholarships are being presented. South Tahoe High School’s Emily Banks will receive the $1,000 Sky Mote Scholar/Athlete Veterans Scholarship and a $1,000 Veterans Monument Scholarship to study nursing.

Emmie Fiel, also of STHS, is being presented a $2,000 Veterans Monument Scholarship to study civil engineering at Santa Clara University.

El Dorado High School has three scholarship recipients: Braidon Campora receives $1,000 from both the Veterans Monument and Sky Mote scholarships to major in biomedical engineering at UC Santa Cruz. Meredith Blair will attend UC Davis to study applied mathematics using a $1,000 Veterans Monument Scholarship. Luke Robertson will use his $1,000 Veterans Monument Scholarship to major in business administration and minor in accounting or quantitative analysis at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

Alexis Power, who graduates from Ponderosa High School, will study biochemistry and molecular biology at UC Santa Barbara with her $2,000

parents had died in Auschwitz.

Malmed said though he and his sister were in France for the duration of the war, “I was too young. I don’t know the whole history of Normandy. I, as a Holocaust survivor, am asked to speak about what happened in France at the time, so I studied history as much as I could. But I have to say that there is so much more to be learned.”

Among the veterans honored by the upcoming American Airlines trip are many who landed on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. Malmed said he is “looking forward to meeting these veterans and hearing their stories.”

“We owe so much — the world owes so much — to those people who participated in the liberation of France,” he added.

In his book Malmed talks about how long it took him to speak in any way about his experiences during the war. For years he simply could not discuss it. Now he speaks often about that time in his life.

Regarding the trip, Malmed said he feels

“heavy with anticipation, anticipation for what I will learn that I don’t know about. I am still about [that time]; there are sometimes sentences that I say when I give my presentation that bring everything so close that I have a tough time keeping a straight face.”

Despite that heaviness, Malmed looking forward to the experience. He is a deep believer in the power of learning from history, especially the painful aspects. “I always say that our elected officials should mandatorily learn history, because we’re repeating our mistakes, mistake after mistake. It is so important to understand the negative effects of war, not only on soldiers but on women, on children.”

Malmed said he sees the mistakes he lived through being repeated in Gaza and Ukraine. As he puts it, “The people of Ukraine, Israel and Gaza are living the nightmare of my childhood.” As he anticipates his trip through France and what he will learn, he said he’s also thinking of them.

Leon and Patricia Malmed leave for Paris with the commemorative flight on May 31.

Veterans Monument Scholarship. She aspires to be a

Oak Ridge High School’s Grace Torchiana has been awarded a $2,000 Veterans Monument Scholarship to study at University of Virginia in a pre-law track that includes political philosophy, policy and law; she will also pursue a major in English. Since 2016, the Veterans Coalition has awarded $75,000 in scholarships to children of veterans, in recognition of their parents’ military service to the country. The scholarships are funded through Veterans Monument memorial brick sales and community donations, such as generous contributions made by Shingle Springs Subaru and SSGT Sky Mote Detachment 697 of the Marine Corps League. Serving as master of ceremonies will be LCPL. Joseph Thuesen, USMC-Vet; Officer in Charge of military ceremonies will be Capt. Jack Babbitt, USMC-Ret; and Sergeant-at-Arms will be active-duty Sgt. Tyler Dennis, USMC. Ceremonies are conducted by the El Dorado County Veterans Alliance. In addition to conducting Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, the Veterans Alliance oversees improvements at the El Dorado County Veterans Monument and raises funds to help veterans in need.

Funnel Cake Eating Contest – Clifton and Warren

Kids Big Wheel Races – sponsored by Gold Country

Bubblegum Blowing Contest – Clifton and Warren

Wild About Monkeys & Friends – Entertaining, educational animal show featuring monkeys

Game Shows – Theater – Friday thru Sunday Only Circus Imagination – Main Lawn

Spinning Demonstrations – Wool and Industrial Arts Building

Learn to Stitch – Needle Arts – Home Arts Building: Daily 2-3pm

Learn to Decorate a Cookie or Cupcake – Home Arts Building: Daily 3:30-4:30 Museum – Open 12-5 pm

her to participate in an allexpense-paid trip to visit numerous memorials in the nation’s capitol last week.

“Participation in an Honor Flight trip gives veterans the opportunity to share this momentous occasion with other comrades, remember the fallen and share their stories and experiences with other veterans,” the nonprofit’s website reads.

“Honored veterans always travel free of charge, thanks to generous donations to our organization.”

Since its inception 19 years ago, the organization has flown more than 300,000 veterans to Washington, D.C. Priority goes to World War II, Korean veterans and those who are terminally ill.

As a Korean War veteran, Gilder became a priority after Gold Country receptionist Coco DeCarlo sent in the application. Hatten, a co-chair of the local Mission to Honor Veterans, desired to take a female veteran on a real Honor Flight.

“I knew Gold Country had several veterans and Coco, the receptionist, told me about Therese,” Hatten said. “I met Therese for lunch and asked her if she wanted to be part of an Honor Flight and she gladly accepted. It’s been so wonderful getting to know her before and especially during the trip.”

Boarding Flight 34 with a WWII, 22 Vietnam veterans and another Korean Veteran last Wednesday, the former paratrooper took flight once again on a 737-800 aircraft that bore the phrase “Honoring those who serve” on the fuselage.

Along with the other veterans, Gilder got to visit 11 special sites: The Vietnam, Korean, World War II, Navy, Air Force, Iwo Jima, Lincoln, Martin Luther King, FDR, Army and the Women’s Military memorials.

The fact that Gilder was the only female veteran on the flight mattered little, other than the fact the flight added going to the Women’s Military Memorial on the itinerary.

“All these veterans treated her as an equal,” Hatten said. “When they found out she was a paratrooper, they were like ‘woah’ and wanted to get to know her story more. Either way, they were wonderful.”

Snapshot of a veteran

The Ohio native took the oath to join the U.S. Army in 1951 at 19 years old, inspired by her mother who encouraged adventure. Gilder’s sister joined the Women’s Army Corps as a high-speed radio operator at their mother’s inspiration.

After completing her basic training in Fort Lee, Va., Gilder went on to complete photography training.

“I wanted to do something different,” she shared with the Mountain Democrat. “I didn’t want to sit down and be a secretary again. I left civilian life so that I didn’t have to do that.”

Therese took photos of Eleanor Roosevelt, Mimi Eisenhower, Cab Calloway and other dignitaries.

While fellow military members headed overseas, Gilder was assigned to a nationwide recruiting program aimed at women. Those serving like Gilder traveled nationwide and participated in various radio and t.v. shows to inspire women to join the service.

Gilder even landed in Ladies Home Journal, featured in the May 1952 magazine in a piece called “Terry joins the WACs.”

“I grew up seeing the WWII WACs saluting, marching and doing all kind of army stuff, and I wanted to do that, but when I joined the Army, the first thing they did was

pull me out of basic training and told me I would be in a magazine,” Gilder recalled. “After that, I never did any of the good stuff. I did all the publicity stuff for recruiting.”

Though not what she expected, the job had some perks. Gilder got to visit the movie set of “Off Limits” (“Military Policeman” in the U.K.) starring Bob Hope, who gave her a kiss on the cheek. They called that incident “Operation Smooch.”

Additionally, Gilder was one of four women featured (each representing a branch in the military) on a threecent postage stamp honoring women in the armed services. Therese left the Army on Nov. 11, 1953, and worked at Fort Rosencrans National Cemetery; she became director and consultant for several national cemeteries. During this time she met her husband Philip, to whom she was married to for more than 50 years. The couple raised a daughter.

Leap of faith

At the age of 47, when there was no age restriction, Gilder re-enlisted with the Army Reserves as a paratrooper despite her fear of heights. She attended jump school in Marietta, Ga., where she earned her wings, and then joined the parachute riggers unit based in Fort Valley. She said she would visit the local high school track and train in her combat boots. And while others in her class were not initially

welcoming, Gilder shared, she found respect by offering to do secretarial work for their administrator.

“I talked to the guys and I said ‘If you let me join, I will do the typing,’ ” Therese said. That did the trick.

After all training was complete, her job sent her to Wisconsin. She eventually joined the 12th Special Forces Group in Arlington Heights, Ill., and did a jump with the unit out of O‘Hare.

During one jumping class session, Gilder remembers one other student being grabbed and thrown out by the jumpmaster after backing up in a moment fear.

“I said, ‘God, a coward dies 1,000 deaths but the brave only die once. I’m going to throw myself out no matter what and not be humiliated and thrown out.’ Then I made my jump,” she recalled humorously.

“A lot of this I did (for) my mother. She lived vicariously though me,” Gilder added. “When she got very ill and died, I kind of lost interest in the whole thing and I got out of the service.”

A trailblazer

These events in Gilder’s will all be eternalized. Her memorabilia will be displayed at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial museum, serving as an inspiration for generations to come. When she visited D.C. she received recognition at the museum.

“We all came in and all the

guys were lined up over on one wall. I was up on another and I said, ‘Why am I not with the other guys?’ Well, as it turned out, they were giving me a certificate, which was really special,” Gilder said.

Gilder and her fellow veterans earned special moments throughout their trip — celebrity treatment, in fact.

As soon as she and her group landed, hundreds gathered and cheered for the veterans in a grand welcome to D.C. Several school groups visiting the memorials thanked the veterans for their service and got pictures.

“The veterans were really moved that the young people took the time to recognize them,” Hatten said.

Every where they went, people wanted to meet Gilder and get pictures with her, including Army officers, former paratroopers and active duty members, Hatten added.

But out of her entire experience, Gilder said her two favorite moments were when she visited the Korean War Veterans Memorial for the first time (she liked that the memorial acknowledged women who served on a black granite wall) and as the oldest Korean War veteran in her group was chosen to help present a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

“That was my most moving experience during the whole trip,” Gilder said as she gently touched the bottom of her eye with her finger. “That was crying time.

“It’s an honor to go and you are honored the whole time,” she continued. “It was easy how they took us to all the memorials that you may or may not have seen. I would say yes, you better go, especially if you are selected.” Gilder said Hatten was the best guardian one could ask for. Hatten said her favorite moment was when Gilder was recognized with her distinctive award in front of all her fellow male veterans, who enthusiastically cheered.

“Therese ... is a trailblazer who paved the way for women in the military and is my hero,” Hatten said. “It was a privilege for me to experience this memorable trip along her side.”

Veterans in the Greater Sacramento area wishing to go on an honor flight can find more details at honorflightbayarea.org. WWII, Korean and Vietnam veterans, and those terminally ill who served, take priority.

Those wishing to be a guardian for a veteran and those who want to donate to the cause can get more information on the website.

“What’s amazing is the camaraderie that’s built on this trip. These people become buddies and that’s why they can’t wait to see each other at the reunions,” Hatten said, adding that those who went on the trip will have a reunion June 2 in Santa Clara. “It’s the one time where the veterans will finally talk about their service because they’re with fellow veterans.”

“I grew up seeing the WWII WACs saluting, marching and doing all kind of army stuff, and I wanted to do that ...”

— Therese Gilder

Mountain Democrat photo by Eric Jaramishian

Veteran Therese Gilder holds a special distinction honoring her service in the U.S. Army while standing next to a display showcasing her Honor Flight trip. The 91-year-old calls Gold Country Senior Living in Placerville home.

Photo by Kathy Hatten

Students line up to meet veteran Therese Gilder in Washington, D.C. The Placerville resident was happy to chat with young people about her time un the service.

Courtesy photo

“Operation Smooch” commences. Therese Gildler and entertainer Bob Hope are photographed on the set of the 1952 movie “Off Limits.”

Photo by Kathy Hatten

Col. Heidi Demarest, a fellow paratrooper, left, takes a photo with Therese Gilder at a Washington, D.C., hotel during Gilder’s Honor Flight trip.

PROSPECTING

Section B ■ mtdemocrat.com

IN THE KNOW

Now

The MACC in Rancho Cordova presents Pure Imagination, an exhibit featuring repurposed items in a creative way, through May 25. For more information visit rcmacc.org.

B Street Theatre presents “Wipeout” through May 26 at The So a in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 4435300 or visit bstreettheatre. org.

Black Point Theatre presents “The Height of the Storm” through May 26 in West Sacramento. For tickets and more information visit blackpointtheatre.org.

The Strawberry Music Festival, a multi-day, family-friendly music and campout featuring activities and entertainment for all ages on the Nevada County Fairgrounds takes place through May 27. For more information and a complete lineup of acts visit strawberrymusic.com.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Cry It Out” through June 2. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.

The Gallery at 48 Natoma presents Things with Wings, artwork with birds, bugs and butter ies, through June 20. In the adjacent Community Art Gallery, art from the El Dorado Hills Arts Association is on display through June 6. For more information call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us.

The Sacramento Fine Arts Center in Carmichael presents Animal House, the annual juried art show featuring animal-themed art in a variety of media, through June 8 and shows featuring the works of David Peterson and Karen Burns through May 31. For more information visit sac nearts.org.

Olde Coloma Theatre presents “She’s in His Line of Fire” or “The Biggest Shot in Coloma” through June 9. For tickets and more information visit oldecolomatheatre.com.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents: Joyce J. Scott: Messages through June 23; Denying Gravity – Woods Davy and the Assembly of Stones through Aug 11; and Penetrating Expressions –Kifwebe Masks of the Songye and Luba People through Aug. 11. For tickets and more information visit crockerart. org.

May 24

Dr. Rock & The Stu will perform at 5 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/livemusic.

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

El Dorado Musical Theatre presents “Finding Nemo Jr.,” May 24 through June 2 at Harris Center for the Arts, 10 College Parkway in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter. net or call (916) 608-6888.

Sutter Street Theatre presents “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,” May 24 through June 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Maya Latin Roots will perform at The MACC in

Illustrating grief

Gallery showcases true, local stories

Jordan Hyatt-Miller Program manager, Arts and Culture El Dorado

APicture’s Worth: NEA Big Read at the Gallery, Arts and Culture El Dorado’s latest exhibition at Switchboard Gallery, runs through June 23. A Picture’s Worth is an exhibition of illustrator Gavin Sellers-Norman’s original work, featuring illustrations inspired by community-sourced oral histories and original audio recordings by personal historian Mariah Padilla.

The exhibition is the culmination of NEA Big Read in El Dorado County, a collaboration between Arts and Culture El Dorado and the El Dorado County Library. NEA Big Read broadens our understanding of our world, our neighbors, and ourselves through the power of a shared reading experience.

El Dorado County is participating in NEA Big Read by sharing in the experience of reading “Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?” by Roz Chast, a graphic memoir that approaches themes of aging, caregiving and loss with generosity, sharp insight and Chast’s signature sense of humor.

The illustrations in the exhibition are drawn from an original publication, produced by Arts and Culture El Dorado, entitled “As Long As You Want: Real Stories of Aging, Caring, and Loss in El Dorado County.” The true stories in the publication, which can also be experienced by visitors as audio recordings, were collected from El Dorado County residents by personal historian Padilla and adapted into illustrated narratives by Sellers-Norman. Copies of the publication will be made available to the public during the exhibition.

lent themselves perfectly to this recording project,” noted curator Marya Osucha. “We ended up collecting 12 honest and brave retellings of caregiving, aging and loss — but also of joy and gratitude and hilarity. Gavin Sellers-Norman’s visual style and sense of humor was a perfect match for our subject matter.”

“Mariah Padilla’s practical skill set and personal sensitivity

There will be a book discussion with local poet Rina Wakefi eld and curator Marya Osucha, 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, May 30, and an artist talk with personal historian Padilla and illustrator Sellers-Norman, 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 20. Additional events in Switchboard Gallery include a self-portrait workshop led by Sellers-Norman, 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, May 25, and a Story Slam led by Padilla, 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 6.

“Hearing these stories of loss and care was incredibly cathartic,” explained Sellers-Norman. “In the time I was working on the illustrations I lost a good friend and working on these stories gave me a sense of comfort. Shared struggle helps connect us to a deep understanding of the hope, pain and absurdity of life, and it makes us realize we aren’t alone.”

Switchboard Gallery is located at 525 Main St. in Placerville.

Arts and Culture El Dorado is a catalyst for good works throughout the region, serving as the statelocal partner to the California Arts Council and providing targeted programs and services. It also curates a vibrant gallery exhibition series and focuses on initiatives that support and sustain the region’s cultural life. Founded in 1984 as El Dorado Arts Council, the organization o ers programs for veterans and students, families and young people, artists and arts organizations, and residents and visitors to the region. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.

Luau brings tropical fun to the foothills

Andrew Vonderschmitt

Mountain Democrat correspondent

Dig out your grass skirts and Hawaiian shirts for a tropical good time.

Luau in the Orchard on June 1, the annual event held at Rainbow Orchards and supporting Images of Hope El Dorado, is sure to be a great time for all in attendance, according to organizers. The evening will feature savory treats and mouthwatering desserts from John Sanders of Old Town Grill. Local wines will be flowing while local band Left of Cool has the crowd tapping a toe. Guests will also get an exclusive preview of the 2024 Banners on Parade entries.

Live and silent auctions will round out the evening with all proceeds going to support Images of Hope’s mission to o er art and movement therapy to those a ected by cancer and other trauma.

This event is Images of Hope’s main fundraiser of the year, according to founder and board President Wendy Goossen.

Courtesy photo Guests enjoy great conversation, sunny weather and more at last year’s Garden Party in the Orchard. This year the Images of Hope fundraiser, scheduled June 1, has a luau theme.

Author, Divide native Tim Musso has a great story to tell

Kat Mendenhall Staff writer

The Georgetown Library and Georgetown

Friends of the Library are very excited to welcome artist and author Timothy Musso on June 1 for two special events.

Musso was born and raised on the Divide and now calls Riverside his home. He is excited to share his latest creative project with his hometown community. The public is welcome

to join Musso and the library staff at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 1, for a children’s program that will include a book reading, short art demonstration and coloring book session. At 1:30 p.m. Musso will read from his children’s

book, “Chasing the Sun,” present a slideshow on the creative process behind the creation of the picture book and host a question and answer session and book signing. Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase for $20. A reception will follow with refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library. RSVP for both events by calling (530) 333-4724.

Musso recently received the prestigious Riverby Award for “Chasing the Sun,” which he wrote and illustrated. The Riverby Award is an award for exceptional nature books for young readers. It recognizes writers, artists and publishers who produce outstanding nature books for children. The award has been presented annually since 1988 for special books showing a respect for nature along with accuracy, quality of writing and good illustrations.

Musso is an artist and naturalist and his work is internationally recognized. He is an associate professor in the Art and Design Department at La Sierra University in Riverside. The themes of his artwork are inspired by his many cross-country backpacking trips

around the world.

It was June 2018 and Musso, an artist whose wood and linocut prints derive from yearly wilderness expeditions, was on a rafting trip with friends in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge along the Kongakut River. He spotted a tern flying overhead. Then, he saw another. Terns are small birds that migrate back and forth between the Arctic and Antarctica, following food sources and the sun across

hemispheres. They even sometimes partially sleep in flight while covering as many as 50,000 miles in a year. Theirs is the longest known migration in the entire animal kingdom.

“When I saw the way they flew, it was unlike any bird I’ve ever seen — the way they moved,” Musso said. “I knew that there was something special about them because they flew so beautifully.

Courtesy

Marshall Foundation uncorks partnership with winery

Kara Sather Marshall

Raise your glasses as the Marshall Foundation for Community Health joins forces with Teneral Cellars to toast to Women’s Health Month throughout May. Founded by the visionary Jill Osur, Teneral Cellars is not just a winery; it’s a movement dedicated to crafting exquisite wines and championing women’s causes.

In a spirited collaboration, Teneral Cellars pledges to donate 10% of sales from its coveted Women’s Health Wine Collection to the Marshall Foundation for Community Health. This exclusive collection features three wines: the 1 in 3 Petite Sirah, the 1 in 8 Claret and the 1 in 10 White Blend, each a flavorful reminder of the health challenges facing women — heart health, breast cancer and endometriosis.

“In El Dorado County alone, 31,680 women are impacted by heart disease, 12,000 by breast cancer and 9,600 by endometriosis,” remarked Siri Nelson, CEO of Marshall. “Together with Teneral Cellars, we are not only raising awareness of these alarming statistics, but also raising crucial funds to support women’s health initiatives in our community.”

Marshall places a strong emphasis on women’s health on the western slope of El Dorado County, o ering tailored healthcare services. In the

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

“Together with

Teneral Cellars,

statistics, but also

community.”

we are not only raising awareness of these alarming

raising crucial funds to support women’s health initiatives in our

past year Marshall provided vital screenings and support through its no-cost mammogram program, serving 53 individuals. In total, Marshall provided 6,408 screening mammograms and 1,111 diagnostic mammograms. In 2023 Marshall’s overall screening rate was between 80-81% (81% is the top decile), helping providers diagnose 69% of patients as early as stages 0-2. Additionally, the hospital operates an on-site wig bank and organizes women’s health events, such as the recent event in Georgetown which performed 22 mammograms and 16 cervical cancer screenings.

Renowned for its top-notch cardiac care and rehabilitation services, Marshall o ers specialized programs designed specifically for women’s needs. Women currently comprise 26% of the patients in Marshall’s cardiac rehabilitation program and 39% of participants in the heart failure clinic. With a state-of-the-art cardiac rehab facility unparalleled in Northern California, Marshall is at the forefront of cardiovascular healthcare. Through its partnership with Teneral Cellars, these e orts are further enhanced.

— Siri Nelson, CEO of Marshall

“Our wines tell stories and open up necessary conversations, and this collaboration with the Marshall Foundation for Community Health is a powerful one,” shared Osur, founder and CEO of Teneral Cellars and board member of the Marshall Foundation for Community Health. “By enjoying our wines, you’re not just savoring a moment; you’re supporting a cause that impacts the lives of women and families in our community.”

To add sparkle to the partnership, Teneral Cellars invites wine enthusiasts to purchase the Women’s Health Wine Collection by visiting teneralcellars. com or by visiting their picturesque location at Wilderotter Vineyards, 19890 Shenandoah School Road in Plymouth.

“As the executive director of the Marshall Foundation for Community Health, I am thrilled to see this partnership blossom,” expressed Mindy Danovaro. “Together, we can create a ripple e ect of positive change in our community.”

For more information about the Marshall Foundation for Community Health visit the website at marshallfound.org.

Comedienne

brings her wit to NorCal

Leila Srouji The Center for the Arts

GRASS VALLEY — The Center for the Arts presents Paula Poundstone in the Marisa Funk Theater on June 7.

Iconic comedian Poundstone has been performing at The Center for the Arts since 2015. She is known for her smart, observational humor and a spontaneous wit that has become the stu of legend and it’s no wonder Grass Valley welcomes her back enthusiastically year after year. She regularly plays theaters across the country, hosts a weekly comedy podcast, “Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone,” and is a regular panelist on NPR’s “Wait, Wait … Don’t Tell Me.”

Poundstone has starred in several HBO specials, including “Cats, Cops and Stu ,” which nabbed a cable ACE award for Best Comedy Special. She was the first female comic to host the White House Correspondents Dinner. She filmed live coverage of the 1992 Democratic and Republican National Conventions and the presidential inaugural for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and at the 93rd Emmy Awards. Poundstone has starred in two television series, both titled “The Paula Poundstone Show.” Poundstone’s second book, “The Totally Unscientific Study of the Search for Human Happiness,” was one of eight semi-finalists for the Thurber Prize For American Humor; the audiobook was one of five finalists for the AUDIE award for Audiobook of the Year. Poundstone has released five albums and is featured in several documentaries and compendiums noting influential comedians of the time.

Poundstone said audience members can expect “laughs, big, breathless, ab strengthening laughs, for the better part of two hours. [I] practically guarantee it.”

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. Friday, June 7, at The Center for the Arts, 314 West Main St. in Grass Valley. For tickets and more information visit thecenterforthearts.org or call (530) 274-8384.

Courtesy photo

Comedienne Paula Poundstone promises side-splitting humor at her upcoming Grass Valley show.

Film submissions are open for 2025 Wild & Scenic festival

Film submissions for the 2025 Wild & Scenic Film Festival are now open via Film Freeway. The 23rd annual festival welcomes the submission of shorts and features about nature, community activism, conservation, intentional adventure, health, water, energy, climate change, wildlife, environmental justice, food and farming.

Wild & Scenic’s objective is to inform, inspire and ignite solutions and possibilities to restore the earth and human communities while creating a positive future for the next generation, all through stellar filmmaking, beautiful cinematography and first-rate storytelling.

Submissions will be accepted in three categories: Environmental, Adventure and Student Film.

Know

Continued from B1

Rancho Cordova. For more information visit rcmacc. org.

California Museum in Sacramento presents America at the Crossroads, May 24 through Sept. 1. Discover the evolution of the guitar as the United States’ most popular instrument and its relationship to historical events and cultural moments over the centuries. For more information visit californiamuseum.org.

May 25

The Hangtown Kennel Club & KCCS Dog Show takes place May 25 & 26 at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. For more information visit hangtownkc.org.

The local Veterans of Foreign Wars and Save the Graves invite the public to help place flags at Westwood Hills Memorial Park and Placerville Union Cemetery. Volunteers are asked to arrive at Westwood Hills Memorial Park, 2720 Cold Springs Road in Placerville by 8 a.m. The group continue to nearby Placerville Union Cemetery (650 Bee St.) around 9 am. Water, donuts, snacks, and good cheer will be available. Flag removal will be on Tuesday, May 28, with volunteers again asked to arrive at Westwood Hills Memorial Park by 8 a.m. 1850 Wine Cellars in Placerville hosts Gardening with Emily at 10 a.m. Don’t have a green thumb? That’s OK. Spend the morning with Emily learning how to plant wine barrels full of the perfect herbs for wine pairing, along with a few of her gardening

“It makes it possible for us to continue helping cancer patients and those going through trauma,” she shared.

Images of Hope, an El Dorado County-based nonprofit, provides classes in yoga, meditation, journaling and watercolor, other art classes, canine therapy, music therapy and more to anyone on the Western Slope who has been afflicted by cancer or other traumas. Be it direct victims or family and caregivers, Images turns away no one. All classes and services are free of charge.

“Research has shown that these classes have helped those on their journey to healing,” said Goossen.

Musso Continued from B2

“It clicked in me at that moment, this is what I want to do a picture book about,” he mused.

His artwork that uses a variety of techniques would became, “Chasing The Sun.” The book follows the lives of Arctic tern family members as they migrated around the world.

Musso was raised on the Divide and attended local schools.

“I was on the Divide from 1980 to 1998, when I left for university. I was always drawing and making things my entire life,” he shared.

“The two classes that really spoke to me creatively were Mrs. Hilton’s fourth-grade class at Georgetown School when she invited me to help her paint murals of medieval times on all the walls of the classroom,” Musso continued. “In the eighth

While all films will be considered, WSFF always appreciates submission of films that have ties to the annual theme, which, in 2025, will be “Wild at Heart.” Learn more about the theme below.

Important notes:

• Early Bird deadline: July 14, $40

• Regular deadline: Aug. 11, $50

• Late deadline: Sept. 20: $65

• Event date: Feb. 13-23, 2025

• More information: wildandscenicfilmfestival.org

2025 theme

“The 2025 theme of ‘Wild at Heart’ speaks to the power of wild places to spark inspiration, compassion and understanding of the world around us. Wild is a natural state and a place of inspiration,

tricks. To make a reservation visit 1850winecellars. com/pages/events.

“Cap’n Jack” Davies will perform from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Love Birds Coffee & Tea Co. in Diamond Springs. For more information call (530) 300-9891 or lovebirdscoffeeco@gmail.com.

Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery hosts an Anniversary Memorial Weekend event with live music, pizza and wine specials. Reservations are highly recommended. Call (530) 622-7221.

Shauna Lea & Hired Guns will perform at 4 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

Mediterranean Vineyards in the Fair Play area hosts Music in the Vines this summer: The Tritones (May 25), The Jamokes (June 15), Late for Dinner (July 6), The Listen Hear Band (July 27), Jacob Benning Trio (Aug. 10), The Band Unleashed (Aug. 24) and RxEmedy (Sept. 7). RSVP by calling (530) 240-8386 or email info@medivineyards.com.

Ed Wilson will perform at Rosa-Lucca Estates in Cool, 6-8 p.m.

Later Days will perform at 8 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom. com.

Flat Busted will perform at the Red Hawk Casino Stage Bar, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. For more information visit redhawkcasino.com.

Recent client of Images of Hope, Karen Wood said the offerings of Images of Hope has enhanced her life in many ways.

“I am so grateful that I have been introduced to Images of Hope and the programs provided,” she shared. “There are not enough words to let you know how these programs have enhanced my life.”

The Luau is not just an event; it’s a celebration of community and hope. The event runs 4-7 p.m. Saturday, June 1, at Rainbow Orchards, 2569 Larsen Road in Camino. Tickets are $50. For more information or to purchase tickets visit imagesofhopeeldorado.com.

grade my friends, Chris Sanchez and Adam Winters, and I were invited to paint a mural on one of the exterior walls at Georgetown School. I drew the word ‘Cubs’ in the shape of a bear cub head and we painted the letters yellow with the bear peeking out from behind the letters.

“Matt Souza’s classes at Georgetown School were also great,” he added. “I remember spending a lot of time elaborately painting rockets and learning how to create artwork using early PC computers.

Larry Highberger’s wood shop class at Golden Sierra was also a wonderful creative outlet. I spent many hours on the scroll saw cutting out elaborate shapes to decorate a treasure chest I designed and built out of alder and cherry.”

Email resume and writing samples to Noel Stack at nstack@mtdemocrat.net.

particularly for this festival,” noted WSFF Director Eric Dunn. With a nod to the festival’s namesake, created in celebration of SYRCL’s landmark victory to earn “Wild & Scenic” status for 39 miles of the South Yuba River, the 2025 theme encourages everyone to work to stay wild in ways that enrich them and the surroundings. The theme also embraces a multitude of meanings of “heart.”

“It champions ‘heart’ as courage or enthusiasm for the environment and the work each one of us can do to help protect it,” Dunn continued. “The theme is also an homage to heart being the center and the way in which the wild is central to all wellbeing, from biodiversity around the globe to that feeling we get exploring special places, wherever we may find them.”

Nikki Glaser brings The Good Girl Tour to the Bally’s Lake Tahoe showroom in Stateline, Nev. For tickets and more information call (775) 588-3515 or visit Ticketmaster.com.

Larry & Joe followed by Mark Lettieri will perform at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

May 26

El Dorado Western Railroad offers excursion rides with trains running on the hour, 10 a.m. through 1 p.m., weather permitting, at the Shingle Springs Station. For more information visit facebook.com/ ElDoradoWesternRailroad.

Madroña Vineyards in Camino hosts its 44th annual open house, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For tickets and more information visit madronavineyards.com.

1850 Wine Cellars in Placerville hosts at Summer Kick-off Barbecue at noon. Enjoy barbecue lunch by chef Lisa Scott, live music by Lilian Ghafari and delicious wine and sangria. To make a reservation visit 1850winecellars.com/pages/events.

Ed Wilson will perform at Shadow Ranch Vineyards in Fair Play, 1-4 p.m.

Sharing Our Grandparents’ Herbal Remedies will focus on marigold, rosemary, spearmint and additional home treatments, 2-4 p.m. at Switchboard Gallery, 525 Main St. in Placerville. The herbalist has chosen plants and treatments that are locally available so everyone can apply what they learn in their own homes. Call Melinda Velasco at (530) 204-7223 to reserve a spot.

Red’s Blues Band will perform at 3 p.m. at HWY 50 Brewery in Camino. For more information visit hwy50brewery.com/live-music.

May 27

Green Valley Mortuary & Cemetery host its annual Memorial Day Commemoration at 9 a.m. This event is free and open to the public. The ceremony will include patriotic music by Cantare Chorale, a brief message by Deacon Jim Hoppe of Holy Trinity Parish and honors by Beale AFB. For more information call (530) 677-7171.

The Ben Ali Shrine Band will perform a free, one-hour, open to the public concert at noon at the Veterans Community Center, 6921 Sylvan Road, in Citrus Heights. Under the baton of Director Jerry Lopes, the band will play a variety of patriotic and popular favorites in observance of Memorial Day.

May 28

Smith Flat House in Placerville hosts live music in the courtyard with Love + Honey. For more information call (530) 621-1003.

Sound Bath with Catrina Lessley will perform at 6 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

May 29

Snowline Health hosts Living Well with Dementia – Caregiver Self-care, 1:30-3 p.m. Healthy self-care can help individuals manage stress and learn to thrive as a caregiver. For more information call (530) 621-7820.

Luau Continued from B1

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Laugh until your cheeks are sore with Antsy McClain

Eileen Mello Miners Foundry Cultural Center

NEVADA CITY — Singer, songwriter, humorist and small town philosopher Antsy McClain will bring his songs about the good life to the Nevada City stage during a concert on May 25 presented by Miners Foundry Cultural Center.

He’ll be touring with his latest album, “The Indelible Man.”

Hilarious, insightful and heartwarming, McClain will have audience members laughing until their cheeks are sore and tearing up over the good stuff like love, family and friends. Not everything has a humorous take. McClain is a hopeful and sensitive soul who pays attention to life experiences and uses allegory and metaphor to retell stories in meaningful ways.

“Humor is empty unless it connects to the heart,” McClain said. “As a songwriter and storyteller you’ve got to listen and see the world in order to translate it into your own stories.”

National Public Radio calls him “a spellbinding storyteller” and as a songwriter, Antsy wants to touch every emotion. McClain calls what he does “humor with heart, funny without ridicule and sentimental without saccharine.”

“I love to make people laugh — if we can laugh, we can heal — and that will always be a big part of my shows,” he shared. “But without something deeper, it’s just a superficial cartoon: me with the

big hair, plaid pants and funky clothes, the band with their antics. We have a good time up there, but we want to leave you with tears in your eyes from laughing and from recognizing that life is short, so enjoy the ride.”

With mentors like Waylon Jennings, Tommy Smothers, guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel and cowboy poet Baxter Black, McClain marches to the beat of a different drum. His live shows touch upon country, rockabilly, jazz, swing and a number of pop culture references.

Staged from a small, fictitious trailer park called “Pine View Heights” (patterned after his own childhood surroundings and experiences), McClain’s live poetry, heartfelt ballads and humorous tales have garnered praise from Guy Clark, Willie Nelson, Lindsay Buckingham and David Wilcox.

After a 1999 Nashville record deal proved unfruitful, McClain took the reins of his career and blazed an independent campaign, producing some of Americana’s most innovative projects. With involvement from a fanbase referred to as “cousins” who coined the “Flamingoheads,” McClain was able to take his show on the road. He has different iterations of Trailer Park Troubadours in each state he visits.

“I play with bands all around the country. I just love playing with other talented musicians. We never play the same show twice. They go right with me like a flock of birds,” said McClain.

FICTITIOUS

STATEMENT

THE

ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 5/3, 5/10, 5/17, 5/24 13141 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 24CV0752 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: VALLIAMMAL ARUMUGAM filed a petition with this court for a decree changing

THE PETITION for probate requests that KRISTYN WINTHER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: June 24, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 9 at 3321 Cameron Park Drive, Cameron Park, CA 95682

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor.

EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER

THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ.,

Photo by Dennie Kirtley

Antsy McClain brings his humor and music to the stage this Saturday in Nevada City.

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Bodies will pile up on Sutter Street Theatre’s stage

Allen Schmeltz Sutter Street Theatre

FOLSOM — “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” brings its who-done-it to Sutter Street Theatre, opening May 24.

The creative team responsible for a recent Broadway flop (in which three chorus girls were murdered by the mysterious “Stage Door Slasher”) assemble for a backer’s audition of their new show at the Westchester estate of a wealthy “angel.” The house is replete with sliding panels, secret passageways and a German maid who is apparently four different people — all of which figure diabolically in the comic mayhem which follows when the infamous “Slasher” makes his reappearance and strikes again … and again. As the composer, lyricist, actors and

director prepare their performance, and a blizzard cuts off any possible retreat, bodies start to drop in plain sight, knives spring out of nowhere, masked figures drag their victims behind swiveling bookcases and accusing fingers point in all directions.

Come and guess who-done-it ... if you can.

“The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940,” written by John Bishop, is directed by Connie Mockenhaupt. The show is rated PG. Performances are scheduled at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 24 through June 23 plus a 2 p.m. performance June 8 with special senior rates. Unravel the mystery at Sutter Street Theatre, 717 Sutter St. in Folsom. For reservations visit SutterStreetTheatre.com or call (916) 353-1001.

Drytown Americana Festival brings together great bands

Susan Feist News release

RYTOWN —

DThe Drytown Social Club embraces its commitment to live music with the second annual Drytown Americana Festival, June 1 & 2.

The line up is anchored by grammy award-winner Willie Watson. His shows are electric, his talent superior and the set list a tale of how Americana music evolved with blues, rock and folk.

The days will be a mix of Sacramento and Bay Area bands with Watson dropping in from Los Angeles. Watson’s take on music defines what will be the vibe of the festival.

“I’m not trying to prove any point here,” he insisted, “and I’m not trying to be a purist. There’s so much beauty in this old music and it affects me on a deep level. It moves me and inspires me. I heard Leadbelly singing with the Golden Gate Quartet and it sounded fantastic, and I thought, ‘I want to do that.’ I heard the Grateful Dead doing their version of ‘On the Road Again’ and it sounded like a dance party in 1926, and I wanted to do that, too.

That’s the whole reason I ever played music in the first place — because it looked and sounded like it was going to be a lot of fun.”

Forever Goldrush will close out the first day of the festival. The group has been developing its own brand of Americana since 1997. Born in the gold country foothills of Northern California, this quartet of childhood friends combines folk, country blues and rock ‘n’ roll which No Depression magazine describes as “roots rock meets cowboy poetry.”

Also playing are Smith and Tegio, Jacob Aranda, Herald Sessions Trio, Noelle and the Deserters, Andre Miguel Cervantes, Leaping Blennies, Loose Engines, Mike Blanchard and The Californios and Bobby Dickson of The Cash Prophets.

Smith and Tegio is the musical project of Austin Smith and

McClain

They met in their late teens and years later found their voices. These charming musicians, poised for conquest, are now accompanied by pedal steel and stand-up bass to give them a current, country tone.

Herald Sessions Trio is the brainchild of edgy long-time Sacramento guitarist Greg Roberts. The band has a killer authentic country blues sound and brings a realness that resonates.

Drummer John Kent is currently working on a new project with Cake guitarist Xan McCurdy. Noelle and the Deserters play southwestern honky tonk from the high desert of New Mexico to the golden hills of California. Noelle Fiore and her band draw inspiration from the likes of Emmylou Harris, Loretta Lynn and the great outlaw country players. The band includes seasoned players from the Bay Area and Sacramento.

Andres Miguel Cervantes is a folk, country singersongwriter based in San Francisco. Cervantes’ lyrics are distinctly his own, with beautiful, haunting images of landscapes both internal and external.

Leaping Blennies is a Sacramento-based rockabilly and ‘50s rock ‘n’ roll band. Playing a combination of original songs plus all our classic favorites like Elvis, Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochran, Gene Vincent and more, the group will fill the dance floor.

Loose Engines is an Americana band that plays mostly original music in Northern California.

Bobby Dickson plays the gospel according to Johnny Cash. The second day of the festival, Jacob Aranda,

Continued from B8

Before music found him, McClain was an awardwinning illustrator and designer for book and magazine publishers.

“My life is my art. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to share it with music, with words and with pictures,” he explained.

Bar and doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 25, at Miners Foundry, 325 Spring St. in Nevada City. For tickets and more information visit minersfoundry.org.

Photo by Allen Schmeltz

Actors Sam Kay, Misty Bradshaw, Laura Luke and Chris Amick, left to right, try their best to stay alive in “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940.”

Courtesy photos

Willie Watson, above, will play Southern gospel, railroad songs and more on the Drytown stage.

At left, Smith and Tegio will perform Americana music with a country tone.

Mark Tegio.

singer-songwriter and luthier rounds out the festival. Born and raised in a Latino household in