Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Odin Rasco Sta writer

ddie Thomas Keller, a former El Dorado

ECounty Superior Court judge who left a lasting legal legacy, died May 4 at the age of 82, leading to an outpouring of fond memories from friends, family and colleagues.

Born and raised in Sacramento, Eddie discovered a passion for civil service that would serve as a guiding motivation through his adult life while attending Sacramento High School. Following his high school graduation in 1958, Eddie began attending Sacramento City College before following in his grandfather’s footsteps and studying at Cal Berkeley. Graduating with a degree in history in 1962, he then received an LLB degree in law from Hastings College of Law in San Francisco.

Instead of jumping directly into a career in law that would eventually make it into the history books (more on that later), Eddie pursued his passion to serve and joined the Peace Corps. For two years he lived in Chile while he helped organize credit unions in an e ort to aid the county in building a firm financial foundation. During his stay, Eddie lived with the Alvarado family, building a bond that would last a lifetime.

“He stayed connected with them; they are his Chilean family,” Eddie’s son Justin Keller explained. “Just last year he went down to celebrate ‘Mama’s’ 95th birthday.”

They would stay in touch using things like Facebook and Zoom, and before that, they

exchanged letters. Eddie stayed fluent in Spanish throughout his life; in 2004 he revisited Chile for the first time since his trip in the 60s, bringing his sons Dynan and Justin along to see the countryside and meet the Alvarados.

Eddie’s fluency in Spanish was an inspiration to his daughter Cindy Carroll, who became part of his family at the age of 6, when he married her mother, Susan Yost White in 1970. He emphasized the importance of a good upbringing for his children, including education.

“School and family were definitely priorities for him,” Carroll said. “He was really a role model. I learned Spanish because I knew he’d learned it. He went to Berkeley, I went to Davis and my daughter went to Irvine. He was my mentor and an inspiration.”

In 1968 Eddie began working for the Attorney General’s O ce in Sacramento, a career that would continue for 21 years. A highlight of his time in the AG’s O ce, Eddie would be the named attorney

Noel Stack & Malachi Parker Mountain Democrat sta

The long-awaited fire services analysis for the Cameron Park Community Services District recommends annexation with the El Dorado Hills Fire Department. The report prepared

PLACE ADDRESS LABEL

by consultant Don Ashton with Municipal Resources Group and released May 24 suggests the CPCSD Board of Directors direct sta to negotiate a fire services contract extension with Cal Fire through June 30, 2028 — the amount of time it will likely take to complete the annexation process.

Such an extension will come with a cost that still leaves the future of Station 88 up in the air. The board has mulled its closure for nearly a year.

“Unfortunately, Cameron Park’s fiscal stability is uncertain, as costs and service demand for fire, parks and recreation, garbage services, CC&Rs, ARC, LLAD management and maintenance outpace revenue growth,” the report notes.

Eric Jaramishian Sta writer

El Dorado County employees arrived at work Monday morning to an unpleasant surprise; the Building B arboretum in the atrium at the EDC Government Center — often the site of happy couples tying the knot or sta enjoying a quiet lunch as the fountain bubbles — was extensively vandalized.

Plants and vegetation that make up a garden on the bottom floor of the building’s atrium were pulled from the dirt, décor was vandalized and randomly rearranged and sprinklers were pulled up, broken or completely destroyed.

The destruction of the irrigation system left the floor of the building flooded. Additionally, a fountain that rests in the middle of the arboretum was stu ed full of rocks and mud and the flower beds were littered with trash as a result.

The Mountain Democrat spotted a county facilities worker

cleaning up the mess left behind over the weekend, sweeping ferns and other plants that were pulled from the dirt, and breaking down branches o trees that were broken as a result of the vandalism.

“It was like some kind of drug or mental illness-fueled decorating,” said Brandon Ellena with the Auditor-Controller’s O ce, who was helping clean up Monday

morning. “Nothing about this makes any sense, but this person was clearly was not in their right mind.”

County employees told the Mountain Democrat security footage caught an individual in the building near a side door sometime between 5 and 6 p.m. Saturday, speculating he somehow rigged the door to stay open or unlocked and returned

later. The destruction likely took a couple of hours.

A suspect has been identified but no arrest had been made as of press time.

“It seemed like he just took his time, but I remember him … he was sleeping outside on the Veterans Monument and he didn’t seem like a typically violent person

ESSENTIALS

Edgar Judson

McAdams

June 5, 1930 – May 18, 2024

Edgar Judson McAdams was born on June 5th, 1930 to Edgar Judson McAdams and Josephine (Roe) in Monrovia, CA. He was born with a little curl on top of his head and was nicknamed “Corky”, a cartoon character from that time, by his grandfather.

He graduated from El Monte High School in 1949 and entered the Navy Shortly thereafter where he was a Bosuns Mate during the Korean War. There he met his best friend Robert Needle. They remained friends until his passing, each the Best Man in each other’s wedding.

Corky knew Donna Langhauser who lived down the street from his childhood home and asked her on a date. Donna and Corky dated for 4 years and were married on June 20th, 1959. For 65 years they built a life full of joy and family. Together, they lovingly raised a daughter Debra McAdams and a son Wayne McAdams.

Corky was a ectionately known as “Mr. Fix-it”. He had a knack for figuring out how things worked. This led to a devoted career with AT&T for 33 years. After retirement, both he and Donna enjoyed working for the El Dorado County Elections Department.

Corky enjoyed traveling and going adventures with his family. They spent every summer at his favorite place, Meeks Bay, Tahoe. He delighted in boating and camping there.

Corky loved vintage cars and owned a 39 Ford and 67 Ford Ranchero.

Edgar is survived by his wife of 65 years, Donna McAdams, daughter Debra McAdams, son Wayne McAdams (Theresa), grandchildren Amanda Cone (Nelson), Megan Alvarado (Wil), Jarrett McAdams, Jamie McAdams. Great Grandchildren Nelson Barrera, Landon Barrera, Ellia Barrera and Noah Alvarado, sister Joyce Johnson.

A private memorial will be held on June 14th. Donations in Edgar McAdams name can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Gale Willingham

May 19, 1934 – May 24, 2024

Gale was born on May 19, 1934, in Littlefield, TX, and passed from this life on May 24, 2024, in Cameron Park, CA. He was a loving son, husband, father, and friend.

He lived his childhood in Texas and then moved with his family to California while he was a teenager. He graduated from Modesto High School in 1952. Upon graduation he went to Alaska to work on the railroad and live his dream of hunting and fishing there. Returning to Modesto, he met Martha Jane Ramsey and they were married on September 3, 1954. He enlisted in the Army, attended basic training in Fort Ord, CA, and then spent a year and a half in Germany. While in Germany in 1955, his only child, Paula, was born. Meeting for the first time over a year later, a bond formed that strengthened throughout the rest of his life.

Gale went through California Highway Patrol (CHP) Cadet training and became a Tra c O cer in 1957. He worked in Norwalk and Merced until 1972 when he was promoted to Sergeant. He worked in East Los Angeles, Los Banos and in 1978, transferred to Central Division in Fresno. He managed that division’s Vehicle Theft Unit until his retirement in 1988.

Gale enjoyed hunting and fishing his whole life. He and Martha played golf and learned to snow ski in their fifties. He belonged to the Madera Lions Club and was a 32nd Degree Mason. He, Martha, and his mother Zelma moved to Shingle Springs, CA, in 2012. He cared for both until Martha’s passing in 2013 and Zelma’s passing in 2014. He was a proud member of the Church of Christ in Placerville.

He traveled in his later years, to France and Belgium to satisfy his life-long interest in WWII history. He and Paula visited the family historical towns in Tennessee and the burial site of his GreatGreat-Great-Great Grandfather, who fought for the Continental Army during the revolutionary War. They saw the sights in Washington, DC and took a road trip across Texas, during which he was able to visit his birthplace in Littlefield, TX.

Ailing from congestive heart failure and chronic kidney disease, Gale passed away peacefully 5 days after his 90th birthday. Funeral services will be held at Green Valley Mortuary Chapel (3004 Alexandrite Dr., Rescue, CA 95672) on June 3, 2024, at 11:00 am. A reception will be held immediately afterward at the Church of Christ (4120 Missouri Flat Rd., Placerville, CA). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his memory to the CHP Widows and Orphans fund in his memory (at www. thecahp.org/widows-and-orphans-trust-fund).

Kathleen A. Slater

Oct 22, 1952 – May 8, 2024

I write this with a heavy heart. My life partner and wife of fifty years has lost her two and a half year battle against cancer. Besides me, her husband Bob, she leaves behind a son, Josh (Melissa) and grandson Mason. Survived by her brother Ken (Carol), preceded in death by her father Herman, Mother Alice and brother Albert. A youth coach, Aerobics Instructor, Secretary & Bookkeeper. A special thanks to the people at Marshalls Oncology Center in Cameron Park for their e orts. Also to Snowline Hospice for their tender care over the last three months.

May my love rest in peace. Services were private.

Paul Everett Spillers

Oct 17, 1953 – June 24, 2021

A devoted husband and father, Paul passed away peacefully at home in Roswell, New Mexico. Paul was born in Lodi, California to Anna Mae Sturtz and Paul Raymond Spillers. Paul loved the out of doors. Hunting and fishing were his favorite. He liked to work with Gun kits and enjoyed gunsmithing. Paul hiked portations of the Pacific Crest Trail. Paul was an Eagle Scout and earned the “Order of the Arrow.” While a student at Joseph Kerr Middle School, he and 3 other students set the 8th grade school record for the mile relay. Paul loved his motorcycles and racing. Paul was a graduate of Elk Grove High School, Class of 1972. After working on the family pear orchard on Steam Boat Slough, he was employed by Capitol Coors as a delivery driver. Paul worked for H and H Oil Tool in Rio Vista, Air Pacific Compressors in Lodi, and used this experience to begin working for the state of California as a Maintenance Supervisor for 20 years. Paul was a very knowledgeable mechanic and repairman. Most of all, Paul loved his family, especially his grandchildren. They were the center of his world. Paul was preceded in death by his mother Anna Sturtz, Paul R. Spillers and son Ryan Spillers. He is survived by his wife Deanna (Lawrence) Spillers of Roswell New Mexico, daughters Lacey Stiles (Bryan), Jenna Spillers, and their mother Dee Spillers of Garden Valley, grandson Blake Stiles and granddaughters Bailey Stiles and Chloe Spillers-Neet. Aunt Betty Horsky of Sacramento. Sisters Deborah Tapella (Clark) of Isleton, Karyn Salas (Oscar) of Napa, Lenese Coughran (Kirk) of Rio Vista. Nieces and Nephews Hayley Thomas (Randy), Chase Tapella, Benjamin Salas, Samantha and Dylan Coughran. Step sisters Melody Dean of Boise Idaho and Lori Ubidon. Numerous cousins and inlaws, and so many friends. A celebration of Paul’s life was held on June 2nd, at Camp Lotus, 5461 Bassi Road, Lotus, California.

LEGISLATORS’ ADDRESSES

PLACERVILLE CITY COUNCIL

City Hall 3101 Center St., Placerville (530) 642-5200

Mayor Michael Saragosa msaragosa@cityofplacerville.org

Vice Mayor Jackie Neau jneau@cityofplacerville.org John Clerici jclerici@cityofplacerville.org Nicole Gotberg ngotberg@cityofplacerville.org David Yarbrough dyarbrough@cityofplacerville. org

ElL DORADO COUNTY SUPERVISORS EDC Government Center 330 Fair Lane, Placerville

District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl (530) 621-5650

District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo (530) 621-5651

District 3 Supervisor Wendy Thomas (530) 621-5652

District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin (530) 621-6513

District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine (530) 621-6577 (Placerville) (530) 621-6577 (South Lake Tahoe)

CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR

Gavin Newsom 1021 O St., Suite 9000 Sacramento 95814 (916) 445-2841

U.S. SENATE Laphonza Butler SD-G10 Dirksen Senate Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-3841

Alex Padilla 112 Hart Senate O ce Building Washington, D.C. 20510 (202) 224-3553 Sacramento O ce 501 I St., Suite 7-800 Sacramento 95814 (916) 448-2787

5TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT Tom McClintock Constituent Service Center 4359 Town Center Blvd., Suite 210 El Dorado Hills 95762 (916) 786-5560 3RD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT Kevin Kiley Constituent Service Center 6538 Lonetree Blvd, Suite 200 Rocklin 95765 (916) 724-2575

5TH ASSEMBLY DISTRICT Joe Patterson District O ce 8799 Auburn Folsom Road Granite Bay 95746 (916) 774-4430

1ST ASSEMBLY DISTRICT Megan Dahle District O ce 113 Presley Way, Suite 2 Grass Valley 95945 (530) 265-0601

State Senator, DISTRICT 4 Marie Alvarado-Gil Capitol O ce 1021 O St., Suite 7240 Sacramento 95814 (916) 651-4004

District O ce 460 Sutter Hill Rd, Suite C Sutter Creek 95685 (209) 267-5033 EL DORADO IRRIGATION DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2890 Mosquito Road, Placerville (530) 622-4513

Division 1: George Osborne, (530) 647-0350

Division 2: Pat Dwyer, (530) 642-4055

Division 3: Brian Veerkamp, (530) 642-4055

Division 4: Lori Anzini, (530) 642-4055

Division 5: Alan Day, (916) 235-3295

The following information was taken from Placerville Police reports:

May 5

9:33 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 45-year-old man at the Mosquito Road station on suspicion of vandalism and possession of paraphernalia. He was listed in custody.

5:22 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 50-year-old man on Main Street on suspicion of smuggling and being under the in uence of controlled substance. He was listed in custody in lieu of $195,000 bail.

May 6

7:56 a.m. Petty theft was reported at the post o ce on Sacramento Street.

May 7

4:53 p.m. Petty theft was reported on New Morning Court.

10:17 p.m. Battery was reported at an eatery on Forni Road.

May 8

8:40 a.m. Vandalism was reported at an apartment complex on Coloma Court.

12:56 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Main Street.

1:22 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a parking lot on Main Street.

6:43 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 35-year-old man on Main Street on suspicion of multiple parole violations. He was listed in custody in lieu of $25,000 bail.

May 11

11:18 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Acacia Way.

11:28 a.m. Petty theft was reported at an eatery on Broadway.

May 12

10:21 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a restaurant on Broadway.

10:21 p.m. Battery was reported on Goyan Avenue.

11:23 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a park and ride on Forni Road.

May 13

7:46 p.m. Battery was reported on Gerle Avenue.

May 14

8:28 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a business on Broadway Court.

9:52 a.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported at an apartment complex on Tunnel Street.

May 15

10:34 a.m. Burglary was reported at a restaurant on Broadway.

10:18 p.m. Burglary was reported at a business on Main Street.

11:30 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 34-year-old man on Reservoir Street and Christian Avenue on suspicion of breaking and entering and burglary. He was later released on $60,000 bail.

May 16

7:10 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 41-year-old man on Placerville Drive on suspicion of possessing burglary tools and providing false identi cation. He was later released on $8,000 bail.

May 17

8:10 a.m. Vandalism was reported at store on Broadway.

9:38 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 47-year-old man on Broadway Drive on suspicion of obstruction. He was later released on $3,000 bail.

4:36 Battery was reported at a school on Moulton Drive.

6:45 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a facility on Mallard Lane.

7:54 p.m. O cers booked into jail

a 33-year-old man on suspicion of probation violation on Orchard Lane. He was later released.

May 18

8:28 a.m. Petty theft was reported at grocery store on Broadway.

9:15 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a facility on Placerville Drive.

11:38 a.m. O cers booked into jail a 44-year-old man on Forni Road on suspicion of grand theft and carrying a concealed dirk or dagger. He was listed in custody in lieu of $10,000 bail.

12:13 p.m. O cers booked into jail a 39-year-old man on suspicion of probation violation. He was later released on $20,000 bail.

4:22 p.m.

/ resposito@mtdemocrat.net

/ nstack@villagelife.net Mimi Escabar Special

/ mescabar@mtdemocrat.net

Jaramishian Staff

/ eric@mtdemocrat.com

Rasco Staff writer 530-344-5062 / odin@mtdemocrat.com Malachi Parker Staff writer Malachi@mtdemocrat.com GRAPHICS

Letty Bejarano-Carvajal Graphics Manager (530) 344-5049 / lettyb@mtdemocrat.net

“Staff Directory” at the bottom of mtdemocrat.com for

DON’T MISS

Fair Tickets

Now Available

Fair Tickets on sale now. eldoradocountyfair.org/tickets Don't miss out on pre-sale prices!

Odin Rasco Staff writer

Step back in time to the 1800s during a visit to Placerville’s historical downtown on Saturday, June 8.

Celebrating the diverse stories that contributed to the unique tapestry of Placerville and California’s Gold Rushera history, the west end of Main Street will play host to facts and family fun from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday for Golden History Days. Buried History, the group that organized the event, has brought together a wide range of historical sets and reenactments for the festivities, including Japanese pioneers, Black Americans, Hispanic/Californio residents and Anglo and Irish settlers. Don’t miss the visit from the Highway 50 Wagon Train. Visitors will see the past in action, with Living History members portraying traditional Gold Rush trades like blacksmith, gambler, saloon dancer, camp

Pre-Sale Now

Daily Events

Funnel Cake Eating Contest – Clifton and Warren Kids’ Corral

Kids Big Wheel Races – sponsored by Gold Country Ace Hardware near Organ Room Lawn: Daily at 6pm

Bubblegum Blowing Contest – Clifton and Warren Kids Corral

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

*Go to eldoradocountyfair.org for more information.

Motorcyclist killed in Highway 50 crash

Noel Stack Editor

A 37-year-old man died in a solo motorcycle wreck on Highway 50 Monday evening, the California Highway Patrol confirmed.

At about 6:30 p.m. June 3 the El Dorado resident, who has not been identified, was riding a 2021 Honda motorcycle eastbound on Highway 50 near the Cameron Park Drive exit when, for reasons still under investigation, he lost control of the bike

and collided with the guardrail in the center median, according to the CHP collision report. The rider was ejected.

A witness told the Mountain Democrat motorists immediately pulled over to render aid, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

“As a result of the ongoing investigation, we have determined

no other vehicles were involved and alcohol and/or drug impairment is not suspected to be a factor,” officials write in the report, which also notes roadway conditions were clear and dry at the time of the crash.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone who may have witnessed the wreck is asked to call the CHP Placerville office at (530) 748-2450.

Dr. Little’s Dental News

Presented by Jeffery Little, D.D.S.

Calcium phosphate is a naturally occurring mineral compound and an important component of bones and teeth. Calcium phosphate is a common ingredient in toothpaste because it helps remineralize and strengthen teeth. Calcium and phosphates already exist in our saliva. After we eat, phosphate and calcium ions begin to repair teeth through remineralization: the teeth’s natural repair process that deposits calcium and phosphate in enamel. Adding fluoride into the mix makes teeth even stronger than their own natural remineralization process does. When combined, fluoride, calcium, and phosphorus form a mineral called fluorapatite, which makes our tooth enamel harder. Fluoride can be used to help repair

and reverse tooth decay, since calcium and phosphorus are already naturally present in our bodies. Would you like to know more about the importance of fluoride in dental health care? Our approach to addressing our patients’ dental needs includes educating them on effectively avoiding future problems, thus promoting optimal oral hygiene. To this end, our mission is to provide open and free communication and the highest standard of personalized care in an environment of health, mutual understanding, and respect.

P.S. Calcium phosphate creates a very hard material, but it can be dissolved by acids, which are one of the main substances responsible for breaking down tooth enamel.

South Lake Tahoe Police arrest suspected stabber after stand-off

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE — On Saturday, June 1, around 11:15 a.m., the South Lake Tahoe Police Department responded to the report of a victim at Barton Hospital who had been stabbed multiple times.

The suspected stabber was identified as David Valenzuela, 43 years old of South Lake Tahoe. Officers attempted to make contact with Valenzuela at his residence where he refused to cooperate and come out of his home to surrender to the police.

Due to violent nature of this incident, SWAT and CNT (crisis negotiators) were called to the scene. SLTPD posted on Facebook, asking people to avoid the area of Lapham Drive while the police activity was ongoing.

A warrant for Valenzuela’s arrest and a search warrant for his residence were issued. Despite negotiators countless attempts to get Valenzuela to peacefully surrender, he refused. Ultimately, tear gas was deployed. Valenzuela exited the residence and was taken into custody without further incident.

History Continued from A3

in period clothing (1848-1888), be it prairie dresses, mining clothes, saloon garb or fancy dress. The bestdressed attendee will not only garner bragging rights, as a $100 prize is up for grabs for the most sartorially skillful participants.

Main Street restaurants are ready to keep visitors well-fed, with Public House, Thai Noodle House, Franny’s Farm Table, Powell’s and Sourdough & Co. offering special menu items that include affordable, grab-and-go options. In addition, the Placerville Kiwanis Club will serve hot dogs and

Valenzuela is being held at the El Dorado County Jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and resisting/delaying a law enforcement officer. He is being held without bail. The victim is currently stable at the hospital.

The SLTPD expressed thanks to CHP-South Lake Tahoe, El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office and South Lake Tahoe Fire Department for their help.

Meridian Snow and More will have shaved ice and chilly refreshments available.

With historical information from the U.S.-China Railroad Friendship Association, El Dorado Western Railroad and El Dorado Gold 1848, antique merchants, live music and food, there’s family-friendly fun aplenty to help kick off summer. The celebration will begin to close out with a visit from the wagon train at 3 p.m. as that group finishes its 75th annual crossing of the Sierra as pioneers did more than a century ago.

Mineshaft rescue ends with a happy reunion

Odin Rasco Staff writer

Local firefighters saved the life of a wayward pet dog who had become trapped in an abandoned mine Thursday night, according to information shared by the El Dorado County Fire Protection District.

May 30, the pooch wandered into an abandoned mine shaft near Broadway in Placerville and then fell 60 feet down a narrow bore hole that contained water at the bottom. Firefighters from the EDCFPD and Diamond Springs-El Dorado Fire Protection District responded to the call at around 7:21 p.m. and prepared to aid in the tight-squeeze rescue effort. One rescuer was lowered down

the bore hole using rope systems during the confined space entry. The rescuer secured the dog, which was brought back to the surface with no issue in a process that took close to an hour and 15 minutes to complete.

The dog, who had surprisingly sustained only minor injuries, according to an EDCFPD Facebook post, was happily reunited with its owner.

Confined space entry rescue technicians are required to have specialized training to conduct their operations, reviewing their skills and information regularly. Confined space rescues require a permit to be conducted, which needs at least four trained persons to be approved.

or anything like that, but just off,” said Paul Ghadiani, a county facilities employee, who added that the damage caused will amount to a few thousand dollars in repairs. “It does depend, but when you count how much work it’s going to take …. It’s possibly going to take several of us on a Saturday to try to clean this up and get it in shape.”

This is not the first encounter county employees have had with this person, whose name has not been released. According to Ellena, the same person was in the building after hours on at least one other occasion, but left without incident.

Nearly all the flooding was cleared up by the time the Mountain Democrat arrived Monday morning, but the arboretum, which acts as a place of relaxation, fun for children and at times a place for weddings was still in a state of disarray.

Vandalism has been an ongoing problem in the government center area, employees shared. Ghadiani said much of his workload includes picking up belongings and garbage left by homeless individuals.

“It’s a big problem, and there are times I can’t get to other work that I need to do, which is landscaping and other duties,” he admitted, adding county officials caught two men outside the Chief Administrative Office using saws to cut branches for walking sticks.

“If I have to come in or if I’ve left something in the office, I always double check the door locks behind me and make sure the office doors are locked because the last thing you want is for somebody to come in behind you and do this,” Ellena said. “You’re always worried about somebody coming in and doing something like

this.”

Increased calls for service to address safety concerns including late night loitering and break-ins after dark resulted in adding security detail to the government center last year.

Other county employees expressed concern about working late at night, including Beverly Savage with the Treasurer-Tax Collector’s Office, who said there was one individual urinating on office doors during tax season.

“People come in person and pay their taxes, and that doesn’t send a very good signal to our taxpayers,” Savage said. “It has gotten a lot better since we’ve had the security officers here and they are wonderful. Anytime we call, they’re right here.”

In this instance though, no one was apparently around to report the intrusion.

“I almost cried when I saw it, because this is a place that a lot of love and care has gone into over the years,” Ellena said. “It is going to take hard work and time to get this back to some semblance of normal.”

County communications director Carla Hass told the Mountain Democrat a police report has been filed with the Placerville Police Department.

“We place the safety of our employees and facilities as our highest priority, as evidenced in part by hiring sheriff’s security officers to actively patrol county buildings to discourage and prevent illegal activity,” Hass wrote in an email response. “We work with Placerville Police Department, in whose jurisdiction the west slope government offices are located, to handle matters that impact the safety and security of employees and facilities.”

Mountain Democrat photo by Eric Jaramishian

Damage to the irrigation system in Building B of the government center’s arboretum could be

Monday morning as a result of the vandalism.

Courtesy photo

After an hour-plus rescue operation, a pet dog that had become trapped in an abandoned mine in El Dorado County was saved by firefighters from the El Dorado County and Diamond Springs El Dorado fire protection districts Thursday night.

Tahoe Daily Tribune staff

Courtesy photo

David Valenzuela is being held at the El Dorado County Jail with no bail.

in a case that was ultimately decided by the U.S. Supreme Court, Keller v. California State Bar. Litigants argued lawyers had the right to refrain from having their state bar association membership dues used to support the organization’s political or ideological activities. The case was heard in 1990 and won with a unanimous decision, securing Eddie’s name in history (and law school pop quizzes).

In 1989 Eddie was appointed to serve as judge at the El Dorado County Superior Court, where he served for 20 years. His toughon-crime approach to the courtroom earned him the moniker “Killer Keller,” though this nickname didn’t paint the full picture. Eddie was also lenient with defendants when circumstances warranted and was down-to-earth and supportive with court sta when he wasn’t seated behind the bench, according to friends and colleagues.

“When he, a Democrat from Georgetown, was appointed to the Superior Court by Republican Governor George Deukmejian in 1989, the comments [around the law enforcement community] were, ‘What just happened? Who is this guy? Really? What was the governor thinking?’” recounted Laurie Edwards, former police o cer and retired senior deputy probation o cer and longtime friend of Eddie. “In his first weeks as judge, he earned the nickname, “Killer Keller,” for the tough sentences he gave out to serious drug o enders and career criminals. Early on, he was also known as ‘Kind Keller’ for being humble and treating people with kindness, dignity, and respect in the courtroom. He was very patient and supportive of new probation o cers and attorneys appearing before him, and kind for his willingness to give deserving defendants a second or third chance. He strongly believed in rehabilitation, especially when it involved juvenile o enders.” Edwards, who was assigned as a probation o cer in Eddie’s courtroom for many years, mentioned a moment she had heard of that exemplified Eddie’s kind side. A young o ender with a troubled home life was set to graduate high school while in juvenile hall; when asked who

she wanted to invite to her graduation, she quickly decided she wanted Judge Keller to attend.

“True to his supportive nature, Judge Keller attended her graduation,” Edwards wrote.

Always interested in contributing to his community, Eddie also founded or was involved in a long list of groups and activities, including Teen Court and Job One. He was also a member of the Rotary Club and supported his children’s hobbies by serving as a 4-H leader, baseball umpire and Black Oak Mine Union School District board member.

Eddie’s life was one focused on fairness and community, which has left a lasting impact on many lives. He worked hard to support his family and teach his children, even juggling a full-time judge job while serving as a full-time caretaker for his first wife, Susan, had taken ill.

“I am not sure how he did it,” wrote

retired Judge Suzanne Kingsbury, the first woman to serve as a superior court judge in El Dorado County. “Publicly he always maintained his professionalism, good cheer and his often wicked sense of humor. Eddie was the most sensible, ethical and compassionate person I’ve had the privilege to know. Without a doubt, El Dorado County became a better place by virtue of his involvement in the community. He has helped improve the lives of many of the people who appeared before him. Attorneys who practiced in his court became better practitioners. I loved him and will miss him. Our court has lost a legend.”

Services for Eddie will be held on June 7 at the Foothill United Methodist Church 10:30 a.m. at 3301 Green Valley Road in Rescue. Donations in Eddie’s name can be made to The American Cancer Society, the ASPCA or the American Battlefield Trust.

COMICS

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Maybe when you rst started pursuing a certain outcome, you just thought it was cool or popular, or you believed it would help you t in. Now you see deeper and more personal reasons for the pursuit, and eventually, you will have what desire.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You don’t have to disarm anyone -- with your quick timing, no one has a chance to put up their social defenses in the rst place. You’ll get someone laughing about the very thing they may have been trying to hide just moments before.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Embrace your own polarities and you become powerful. Your wishes, including and especially the goodness you want for others, will be promptly delivered upon. Though your own good fortune makes you feel happy, theirs makes you even happier.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Nothing causes more misunderstanding than wanting because it alters perception, warping the entire world around the object of desire. Considering the bent points of view you’re up against today, seeing eye to eye on anything is a wonder worth celebrating.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The word “caper” can refer to a goofy prank or ridiculous adventure. Caper can also refer to an unopened ower bud used in Mediterranean dishes. Either sort can add a burst of fun to the day, so why not incorporate both? VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). There are many qualities nonessential to be possessed: charm, warmth, athleticism, beauty -- all sprinkles on top of the personality sundae. But a sense of personal responsibility speaks to the very core of humanity. Those without it should be avoided today.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). It’s a little hard

■ SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin

■ SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

Keller Continued from A1

Courtesy photos

Eddie Keller sits next to his second wife, Davis, who he married in 2010.

Eddie and his first wife, Susan, who passed away in 2006.

OPINION

California Matters

Inflation

hits state’s families hardest, shapes their views on the economy

On paper, the U.S. economy seems to be doing well with historically low unemployment. Yet most Americans have a sour view in recent polls, with stubborn inflation in living costs cited as the reason for that pessimism.

“As the 2024 general election begins in earnest, voters’ assessment of the economy and of the candidates’ ability to manage it will, as usual, have a strong impact on the outcome of the race,” Brookings Institute states in a recent analysis of economic attitudes. “With little more than seven months until Election Day, the economy remains a key advantage for former President Donald Trump, and a drag on President Biden’s reelection prospects.”

Biden needn’t worry about losing California to Trump, but it has one of the nation’s highest rates of inflation, according to Moody’s Analytics, worsening its already outlandishly high costs of housing and other living expenses. It’s the biggest factor in California having the highest level of functional poverty of any state, 13.2% according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 50% higher than the national rate.

The Public Policy Institute of California, using similar statistical methodology, has found that a quarter of Californians are either living in poverty or financially close. More recently, the PPIC has explored the impact of inflation, especially on California families which struggle to pay for housing, food and other necessities.

In 2018-19, PPIC reported, “These necessities cost California’s low-income households about $26,000, on average; by 2024, these households would need to spend over $32,000 on the same goods and services. By comparison, the top income group spent on average $82,000 on these basics in 2018-19, which would now cost nearly $100,000 in 2024.”

The PPIC has found, “Prices have increased unevenly across goods and services — with varying e ects across households at di erent income levels. Food prices are up 27% compared to April 2019, and gasoline is up 29%. While expenditures on these goods and services make up large portions of

Letters to the Editor

The rural-urban divide EDITOR:

Irecently attended a one-day conference sponsored by Rural Urban Bridge Initiative and Sierra Forward. RUBI was founded to help bridge the rural-urban divide, especially regarding economic disparities.

The first half of the presentation was about why some people have been left behind. Those reasons are many but include manufacturing jobs moving abroad, automation, corporatization of family farms, bad trade agreements, companies preventing employees from joining unions, lack of investment in rural areas, unfair tax system, the increasing number of monopolies, the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision and the concentration of wealth by large corporations and individuals.

While many on the far right will not agree with this, it is clear that since the beginning of the 19th century the Republican Party has favored business. This is evident in the Republican Party’s policies, laws and conservative court decisions. Unfortunately, the Democratic Party has made its share of mistakes and has thus alienated its traditional blue-collar and rural base. This has been exacerbated by racial and cultural divisions between more liberal urban dwellers and the more conservative rural ones.

The second half of the presentation was about solving the rural-urban divide. The first step is to identify the reasons for the urban-rural divide, study their causes and then develop concrete solutions. Second is educating the general public and politicians about the problems facing rural dwellers. Third is the need to invest in rural areas with training and job creation programs. Fourth is solving the problem of the concentration of wealth. The fifth and most important is listening to each other and having honest dialogue.

The Republican solution is often to reduce taxes

for the rich. This does little to create jobs and it makes the rich richer and adds to the national debt — $7 trillion under Mr. Trump.

President Biden’s policies, on the other hand, have done a lot to help low-income and rural residents. His infrastructure bill has infused billions of dollars into rural and low-income areas, creating thousands of jobs. He is extending internet access into rural areas. He has made it much easier for workers to unionize. He has increased the IRS’s budget to hire more workers to prevent tax fraud. He has brought chip manufacturing back to the U.S. And under President Biden, the DOJ has been much stricter with mergers and acquisitions preventing monopolies.

Mr. Trump has lived a life of luxury with gilded toilets, huge mansions and private airplanes. Much of the money that he has made has been tainted by fraud, crime and questionable loans. Mr. Trump knows nothing about the struggles of the average American. While President Biden has made a good life for himself and his family, he grew up in a blue-collar household with a father who was sometimes out of work. He knows the value of a dollar; Mr. Trump does not.

President Biden has over a 50-year record of writing policies and voting for laws that help lowincome and those in need. Again, the choice is ours to make in November.

SCOTT TAYLOR Placerville

Democrat spin

EDITOR:

Today’s Democrats try to explain why their party isn’t the Old Democrat party that started the Civil War, created the KKK and fought to prevent the Voter’s Rights and Civil

Sexual assault of intoxicated victims is a violent crime

In a society where victims of rape are often blamed and shamed, what message are we sending to the public and our victims when our laws draw hard lines between which sex crimes are deemed violent vs. nonviolent?

Right now, in California, perpetrators who drug or intentionally intoxicate their victims to commit sexual assault are charged with a nonviolent crime. But those who rape their victims while they are conscious but under fear, force, duress, menace, violence or any other threats of violent retaliation are charged with violent felonies. Think about it; someone who has been intentionally incapacitated cannot resist and cannot say no. Is the crime therefore non-violent because the victim was intoxicated or drugged? Rape is rape, period. According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, 1 out of every 6 women has been the victim of rape — attempted or completed — in her lifetime. A disturbing statistic from the California Department of Justice reveals that in 2022, 14,346 rape crimes were reported across the state. Of those, only 1,890 rape arrests were reported.

Tonja Balden’s harrowing experience with Andrew Luster, the notorious serial rapist, is a powerful testimony demonstrating the urgent need for legislative action. In 1996 Tonja found herself a victim of Luster’s heinous crimes when she was drugged to unconsciousness with GHB, only to discover the horrifying reality of what had been done to her years later.

Tonja visited me at the Capitol. “He narrated the things he was doing to me for the camera and manipulated my body like a mannequin,” she told me.

In the year 2000 Tonja learned Luster had been arrested for raping a young college student. With a restraining order against him at the time, Tonja went down to the Ventura County Sheri ’s O ce to speak with detectives. Little did she know at the time, she would be shown a video recorded by Luster of her while she was incapacitated. Tonja recounted the horrifying experience of watching the videotape of her assault, realizing the extent of the violence Luster had inflicted upon her. Married and pregnant with twins, Tonja told me she ended up losing one of them

SB 268 sends a clear message: rape by incapacitation is a violent crime and will be punishable to the fullest extent of the law. Justice can no longer be a notion, but a tangible reality.

during her pregnancy due to her immense stress after discovering the truth.

Luster was ultimately sentenced to 124 years in prison for his heinous assaults. But then the voters passed Proposition 57 and the laws changed.

The stories of two courageous survivors I also spoke with ended di erently; they were left with no taste of justice and their perpetrators walked free.

Anabel Velasquez’ story is one of resilience in the face of unspeakable trauma and su ering endured by survivors of sexual assault. At just 15 years old she found herself in a nightmare that still haunts her today. Anabel was intentionally drugged, sexually assaulted by several men and thrown onto a Bay Area freeway in May 1994. Her survival, gripping onto the guardrail to prevent her death, illustrates the sheer magnitude of her strength as she fought for her life. But the scars from that night run deep, manifesting in enduring guilt, shame and a tumultuous journey through abusive relationships.

“What was once sacred to me was stripped away,” Anabel recalled. “My

sexual assault set me on a downward spiral into toxic, abusive relationships because I felt worthless.”

The absence of justice and lack of validation for her trauma only compounded her su ering, leaving her feeling isolated and invalidated in her pain. These feelings are all too familiar for Katherine Grayson, who also was drugged and sexually assaulted by a man she had just started dating when she was 21.

“My vision was blurred, and I had moments where I could see him on top of me,” Katherine recalled. “I was numb, I was immobilized and I was totally confused.”

Katherine spent the next two decades blaming herself for what happened and repressed her trauma. It wasn’t until she heard about the Brock Turner case in 2015 that she started hearing sexual assault being spoken about on a more serious front, sparking the beginning of her journey to healing.

“For the first time, I was able to see clearly what had happened. I had been raped. I had been drugged

■

SEN. MARIE ALVARADO-GIL Guest column

DAN WALTERS

Walters Continued from A6

most household budgets, lower-income households spend almost all of their resources (83%) on food, housing, transportation (including gasoline), and health care.”

Obviously those on the lower rungs of the economic ladder have more difficulty adjusting to increases in living costs. It’s not hyperbole to say that inflation is a major reason why so many Californians cannot move up that ladder. Meanwhile, efforts to curb inflation have a compounding effect. The Federal Reserve System maintains high interest rates to cool off the economy and bring down inflation, but those interest rates make home ownership more difficult and affect businesses, which often raise the prices of goods and services to maintain profits.

Inflation also hits the public sector, increasing the costs of providing services and wreaking havoc

Letters Continued from A6

Rights acts.

They say all those people flipped with the Republicans somewhere and now it’s Republicans who are racist; Democrats are the enlightened ones. But that’s not the case.

What Democrats don’t want to acknowledge is the 1968 riots at the Democrat Convention and the formation of radical left-wing terrorist groups like the SLA and the weather underground. Various people who were registered Democrats could no longer support an anti-America Party and left the Democrats.

on state and local government budgets. It’s one of the reasons the state budget suffers from a massive deficit and why many cities, counties and school districts are struggling to balance their budgets.

By happenstance, the PPIC issued its report on inflation on the same day that BravoDeal, a website devoted to helping consumers find bargains, released its study of fast food prices, comparing four popular chains state-by-state.

Overall, fast food outlets in Mississippi had the lowest prices while those in Hawaii were the highest, followed by New York, New Jersey and California. For example, a McDonald’s Big Mac costs an average of $5.11 in California but just $3.91 in Mississippi.

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

History is repeating itself right before our eyes with left wing anti-American thugs rioting universities across the U.S. They are targeting white men and Jewish people and have the audacity of cursing Black female police officers and accusing them of being KKK of all things.

I believe we are witnessing another exodus of Democrats who can no longer tolerate the abuse created by their party’s leadership. I believe in 50 years the Democrats will have another spin.

KEN

STEERS Cameron Park

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.

“Using fiscal year 2023-24 budgeted information, assuming a 5% increase in property tax revenue in FY 202425, assuming the current allocation amount of 62.4% of property taxes for fire protection and assuming all other revenues and expenditures remain consistent, Cameron Park can potentially contribute approximately $3.7 million to fire expenditures in FY 2024-25 without further impacting other services,” the analysis continues.

would be approximately $800,000 less each year.

It’s also noted in the report that Station 88 “is not large enough to support industry standard sta ng levels” of a three-person crew and will have to be modified.

the district’s fire protection services, taking a detailed look at continuing those services through a contract with Cal Fire and examining annexation scenarios with the El Dorado County Fire Protection District or the El Dorado Hills Fire Department.

he, sta and the EDH Fire Board have not yet had a chance to discuss the analysis.

“We will review it and provide a more comprehensive statement afterward,” he shared.

“In the meantime, the El Dorado Hills Fire Department remains committed to serving the (residents) of El Dorado Hills and maintaining our role as a reliable partner within the exceptional fire service system here in El Dorado County,” the EDH fire chief continued. “We stand ready to discuss how we can collaborate with Cameron Park to build an even stronger fire service team to protect our communities and beyond.” Report Continued from A1

However, contract extension costs in 2024-25 are listed at $3.77 million and grow to $4.14 million by fiscal year 2027-28 with both Cameron Park fire stations open. If the board decided to close Station 88, the contract amount

The CPCSD website states the board of directors will hold a public workshop on June 12, in the late afternoon or early evening to discuss the report and receive input from the community. Visit cameronpark. org or call (530) 677-2231 for the confirmed time and location. The complete report is available online at cameronpark.org/fire-analysis-report.

The comparative analysis focuses on

out of my mind and then raped by a person who was willing to risk my very life in order to take his pleasure from my body, unimpeded by my personhood and free will,” Katherine stated.

As a state legislator, it is my responsibility to author and advocate for legislation that empowers and protects Californians. The rights of survivors who were sexually assaulted while incapacitated must be prioritized and protected, not the other way around. Legislation over the past decade has given o enders in California more rights and protections, essentially “under punishing” them.

It is glaringly obvious prison overcrowding is a serious concern in California. Early prison release under Prop. 57 was intended to mitigate prison overcrowding, but it fails miserably in its classification of rape of an incapacitated person as a non-violent felony, resulting in o enders convicted of that crime being eligible to walk the streets. This is not how we seek justice for victims of this heinous sex crime, or any sex crime.

Although Tonja’s perpetrator was arrested for his despicable crimes, he now faces the possibility of early release in 2026 because of Prop 57’s classification of rape of an incapacitated person as non-violent.

“How can anyone look at what he did to us and say it wasn’t violent?” Tonja pleaded.

She fears that Luster, once released, will continue his predatory behavior, as evidenced by his previous attempt to flee the country and evade justice.

I am authoring Senate Bill 268 to close this

“While the El Dorado County Fire Protection District is a more a ordable option, when considering long-term sustainability, location of existing fire stations and the ability to recruit and retain sta primarily due to higher compensation, El Dorado Hills appears to be the best long-term solution,” the report states.

El Dorado Hills Fire Chief Maurice Johnson told the Mountain Democrat

dangerous loophole and protect sexual assault victims who were incapacitated by keeping their o enders behind bars and serving lengthier sentences. SB 268 sends a clear message: rape by incapacitation is a violent crime and will be punishable to the fullest extent of the law. Justice can no longer be a notion, but a tangible reality.

This bill takes it a step further and empowers survivors by validating their experiences through the legal system. Harsher penalties under SB 268 will serve to deter potential o enders and help prevent future victims. In a situation where the victim cannot say “no,” it is imperative we stand up and give the silenced a voice.

SB 268 represents a glimmer of hope for Anabel and Katherine, who wish similar legislation had been in e ect at the time of their assaults.

“I felt destroyed emotionally and physically, and had SB 268 been in e ect after my brutal assault, I would have sought help and felt validated as a survivor – I would have gotten a piece of myself back,” Anabel said.

“I would have processed the experience in an entirely di erent and much more empowered way, and if there would be a swift and coordinated response to this crime — every time — we would see a LOT less of it,” said Katherine.

For both Anabel and Katherine, the passage of SB 268 wouldn’t just be about legal reform; it would mean that survivors like them would no longer be burdened by feelings of guilt and selfblame, that they would finally be seen, heard, and

acknowledged. We must normalize having a culture where survivors’ voices are heard, their experiences are valued, and their journey towards healing is supported.

The impending early release of Luster serves as a stark reminder of the flaws in the justice system, where survivors including Tonja are left feeling betrayed and vulnerable. Senate Bill 268 is a crucial step forward in the fight against sexual violence, sending a clear message that perpetrators like Luster will no longer be able to hide behind legal technicalities or societal indi erence. We must get to a place in society where sexual assault survivors are believed, supported and empowered to reclaim their dignity and their voices.

Now is the time to fix California’s flawed criminal justice system. Without SB 268, numerous sex crimes, especially those committed on an intentionally intoxicated victim, will continue to slip through the cracks. These o enders know they will receive lenient sentences, and it’s time we get real about tackling this sex crime and treat it like the violent o ense it is. We need to crack down on these perpetrators now and make their consequences so uncomfortable they won’t think twice about reo ending.

SB 268’s next hearing is scheduled for June 11.

California State Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil was elected in 2022, representing District 4 and the counties of Placer, El Dorado, Amador, Alpine, Calaveras, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Stanislaus, Madera, Merced, Mono, Nevada and Inyo.

Alvarado-Gil

Paul Bunyon isn’t the only giant in American legends. Old-timers along the Mississippi River tell of a giant of a woman – Annie Christmas. The stories say she worked on the river docks near the French Quarter in New Orleans and she was fearless – especially when it came to dealing with bullies who hung out on the docks.

When you see blank line in the story below, a word is missing. Select one of the words in Annie’s barrel for each blank until the story makes sense.

Occasionally, Annie liked to get all dressed up. Once, she put on a red satin ____ and red feather plumes in her hair and took a trip on a ___________ called the Natchez Belle

The captain of that boat was as stubborn as he was mean. When the _________ turned bad, he decided to take a shortcut through a channel that cut across a bend in the ________________ River.

Annie knew the river like the back of her hand and she knew that the cutoff was full of snags and sandbars that could _____ the big paddle wheeler.

But the stubborn captain wouldn’t listen. When the boat hit a sandbar, Annie loaded passengers on her keelboat and fought the current back to the main river. Behind her the Natchez Belle was broken up and _________ by the muddy, swirling river water.

The _______________ hugged Annie, thanking her for saving their lives. They say Annie’s face turned as red as her dress.

While people live in different places and speak different languages, they all love a reelly good story.

Before there were books, peeple told stories to each other. Parents told the stories two their children. Those children told the stories to their childrens and so on, for hundreds off years. Each storiteller might change the story a bit, but for the most part the stories stayed the same.

These are called folktales. Do you no any of these folktales?

Paul Bunyan Brer Rabbit

Cinderella Jack and the Beanstalk

For longshoremen along the Mississippi River, it was the highest compliment to be called “as strong as Annie Christmas.”

Legends say that Annie could carry a barrel of flour under each arm and another balanced on her head. Once she towed a keelboat from New Orleans to Baton Rouge and never got out of breath.

Use the map to calculate how many miles or kilometers she towed her keelboat.

Because she worked on the docks, Annie wore men’s clothing most of the time. But she always wore her pearls. She added one pearl every time she whipped a man in a fight. Add the numbers on each string of pearls below to learn more about the amazing Annie Christmas legend. Length (in feet) of Annie’s pearl necklace:

Glue a newspaper photo onto a piece of paper. Then draw a picture of what might happen next. Pass the two pictures to a friend and have him/her draw a picture of what might happen after your picture.

Find the words in the puzzle, then in this week’s Kid Scoop stories and activities.

Standards Link: Literary Response: Students comprehend basic plots of folk tales.

Longshoreman n. A dock worker who loads and unloads ships. Keelboat n. A large flat-bottomed river boat used to carry freight.

© 2015 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 31, No. 8

Discover the Most

Spacious Senior Apartments in El Dorado County

e spacious Independent Living apartments at Ponté Palmero mean you can continue your independent lifestyle, with access to all the community services and amenities we o er to make your retirement easier and more enjoyable.

Floor plans up to 1,482 square feet | Private, attached garage | Full kitchen | In-suite laundry

You can continue to cook and entertain in your own home, or enjoy our chef-prepared meals in the community dining room with friends. We take away the worry of housekeeping and home maintenance, and provide social opportunities all month long. You can relax and spend your days with friends and family, and doing the things you enjoy most.

INDEPENDENT LIVING HOMES FEATURES

• Kitchen with full-size appliances and granite counters

• Private patio

• Attached garage

• In-home washer and dryer

• High ceilings

• Housekeeping, laundry, and trash service

• Utilities and basic cable included

• Air conditioning

• Pets welcome!

COMMUNITY SERVICES & AMENITIES

• Restaurant-style dining

• Swimming pool, hot tub, and outdoor grills

• Clubhouse and tness center

• Library and full-service beauty salon

• Activities, clubs, outings, and celebrations

• Transportation services

• 24-hour emergency maintenance

• Gated electronic entrance

We also o er Assisted Living Villas & Memory Care apartments for a full continuum of care.

IN THE KNOW

Stellar Students

Congratulations to Chase Nutting of Somerset, who was named to the Dickinson State University Dean’s List.

Congratulations to Alexandra Nichols of Cameron Park, who was named to the Trine University President’s List.

Congratulations to Damien Beck of Rescue, who graduated from Des Moines University with a doctorate of osteopathic medicine.

Beck will begin a family medicine residency at Shasta Community Health Center in Redding

June 5

Girl Scout Gold Award hopeful Naomi Lojo hosts a Musical Petting Zoo, 10-11:30 a.m. at the Oak Ridge High School band room in El Dorado Hills. Children in third through sixth grade are invited to learn about and play musical instruments. The event is free. Sign up at forms.gle/ n3WcSpzgwqXF7rXGA.

Snowline Health hosts Living Well with Dementia Challenging Symptoms: Home and Community Safety Issues, 1:30-3 p.m.

This class explores insights into how cognitive and physical changes associated with dementia can increase vulnerability to accidents and injuries. Strategies are o ered to manage symptoms, create a predictable routine and create modi cations for the home environment. For more information call (530) 6217820.

■ See KNOW, page B3

Another Rose

ready to join the bouquet

Mimi Escabar Special Sections Editor

The future is a rosy one for three wonderful candidates for the title of El Dorado Rose 2024. This year the 2024 Rose will be announced opening night of the El Dorado County Fair, Thursday, June 13, during the El Dorado Rose Pageant at 7 p.m. at the Imagination Theater.

Rose candidates must be older than 60, have lived in El Dorado County for at least 10 years and have been active in volunteering in the community. They are judged on their costumes which must be a reproduction or original of dresses worn before 1910 — the style, overall appearance (including accessories) and workmanship — as well as their knowledge of El Dorado County and their community service. One candidate earns the title of El Dorado Rose for a year. All have the honor of joining the Rose Court, a select group of women who have participated in the program initiated at the El Dorado County Fair in 1980.

Candidates

Gail Wylie Butler shares her birthday with one of El Dorado County’s most monumental days — Jan. 24, Gold Discovery Day. The fourth generation county resident traces her lineage to the Wylie, Veerkamp, Morris, Melchior and Beckett families. A heritage she proudly reflects in her love for El Dorado County and why she would like to be the 2024 El Dorado Rose.

The beautiful land in the county has cultivated her interest in the local flora and her desire to make Gold Country even more beautiful.

She volunteers with the El Dorado County Master Gardeners in many areas— coordinating, scheduling and sta ng tours and open garden days for the Sherwood Demonstration Garden; gardening at

■ See ROSES, page B7

Learn more about how the El Dorado County Transportation Commission is planning for a fire adaptive and resilient community.

Obtenga más información sobre cómo la Comisión de Transporte del Condado de El Dorado está planificando para crear una comunidad resistente y adaptable a los incendios.

Kathryn“ Gilly” Gillihan

Gail Wylie Butler

Sandra M. Hand

Pull out the calendar for California’s best county fairs

Today’s 2024 BINGO card may resemble a mini Ouija board, but when it comes to wholesome entertainment, it’s good to know the American county fair is still a good bet. Summer heat, the midway, rides, cotton candy, funnel cakes, sweet treats, 4-H animal and farm engineering events, talented performers, arts and crafts, vendors … these are a part of our shared heritage. It’s pure Americana. There are three fairs I want to highlight so you can get them onto your calendar: the El Dorado County Fair, the Amador County Fair and the Stanislaus County Fair.

Yahoo, it’s time for barbecue season

DThe first two fairs are brief. Just four days each.

El Dorado County

The El Dorado County fair opens Thursday, June 13, and runs through Sunday, June 16. Features of this year’s fair are circus imagination and clown contests, sheep-toshawl demonstrations, Master Gardeners, the Wild about Monkeys educational show, quilt showcase and more. Check the special section in this newspaper for more details, as the staff there do an excellent job covering this fair. Learn more at eldoradocountyfair.org.

epending on your personal tolerance for summer temperatures, it may now be too warm for standing at the stove, heating up the house. That can only mean it’s time to get the barbecue cookouts going. People who live in hotter tropical climates use more spices and chiles in their dishes, which create not only spicy-hot but rich, complex flavors as well. It is thought that consuming spicy foods helps cool a person off by jump-starting our body’s natural coolant — sweat. Let’s try combating heat with heat.

A popular chili here in California is the piquant jalapeño; they are eaten raw as well as roasted. How about combining that jalapeño heat with some vinegar and sugar? Now add these “candied peppers”’ to a hamburger or hotdog. Perfection! This condiment is beloved by many. Few can resist the combination of heat and sweet with the tang

of vinegar. This recipe hails from the Ball website: ballmasonjars.com.

Candied jalapeños

Makes about 4 pint jars

3 cups apple cider or white vinegar, 5% acidity

2 teaspoons salt

4 cups sugar

6 cloves garlic, sliced

2 teaspoons turmeric ½ teaspoon cayenne powder

2 teaspoons mustard seeds

4 pounds fresh jalapeños, sliced into ¼ inch rings

1. Prepare boiling-water or steam canner. Heat jars in simmering water in the boiling-water canner or on the steam canner rack until ready to use; do not boil. Wash lids in warm soapy water and set aside with bands.

2. Combine all ingredients except jalapeños in a large saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat, stirring to dissolve sugar.

3. Add jalapeño slices, lower heat to medium and simmer for 15 minutes, until jalapeños are dark green and

n

ee

News release

The Episcopal Church of Our Saviour in Placerville is participating in Project (Re)Start by committing to fill bins with bedding for one queen bed and two twin beds. Once filled, the bins will be stored by Our Saviour until needed.

Project (Re)Start is an initiative by the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California to develop standardized bins containing essential household goods to help victims after the initial days of a disaster. There are four types of bins (bedroom, bathroom, cleaning and kitchen). These bins are distributed free of charge to anybody who has been displaced, is establishing a household in a rebuilt residence or has experienced forced relocation.

The Episcopal Diocese of Northern California includes churches in communities from Petaluma to the Oregon border, stretches through Sacramento and Elk Grove to Fallen Leaf Lake Chapel near Lake Tahoe. In just the past six years, this area has been ravaged by more than 70 fires, totaling 4.5 millionplus acres of damage. The area has also experienced several cases of intense flooding, electrical outages and evacuations. Every

county in this area has experienced at least one natural disaster since 2014 and, in total, more than 36,000 structures have been destroyed.

The people of Northern California have lost their power, their homes and even their loved ones.

As disasters transition from rescue to recovery to rebuilding, victims need everyday goods to adapt to temporary housing while homes and lives are being rebuilt.

The church is currently accepting donations from anyone interested in helping

with this project. Checks may be sent to Church of Our Saviour, P.O. Box 447, Placerville, CA 95667 with Project (Re)Start in the memo line or by going to the church’s website at oursaviourplacervillle. org and using the pulldown menu under “Giving” at the top of the page. Be sure to note Project (Re)Start in the memo line for checks or the notes section if donating online. All donations will be used to purchase supplies to fill the bins. All bedding must be purchased new for health reasons.

Courtesy photo

Ellen Cehand, member of Church of Our Saviour, adds the first pillow to a Project (Re)Start bedding bin.

Photo by Laurie Lewis

Candied jalapeños make a great burger topper, providing a bit of heat and a lot of flavor.

Laurie Lewis UCCE Master Foor Preserver of El Dorado County

S

PRESERVE, page B5

Photo by David Endsley

County fairs are a summer tradition filled with pure Americana. There is fun and discovery for every age group.

Susan Laird The Arts

n See LAIRD, page B5

@ 10pm 1015 Folsom, 1015 Folsom

San Francisco Walk For Love - Shriners Children's Northern California @ 9am This community-driven event aims to

awareness and support for pediatric care while providing par‐ticipants with a fun and rewarding experience. Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2425 Stockton Boule‐vard, Sacramento East Bay Take Steps @ 10am Come together to build community and raise funds for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, to see

world where all in�ammatory bowel dis‐ease patients are supported while we search for cures. Heather Farm Park, 301 North San Carlos Drive, Walnut Creek. hdegroot@crohn scolitisfoundation.org, 917-9031404

Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic @ 10am Curran Theatre, San Francisco

Irving St. Fest-A-Rama!!! @ 12pm Irving Street Fest-A-Rama will fea‐ture live music, DJs, belly dance performances, a dragon dance, and exclusive deals and sales from local artists and small businesses on Irving Street. Irving Street & 19th Avenue, San Francisco. info@ artyhoodsf.com

Sesame Street Live! Make Your Magic @ 2pm Curran Theatre, San Francisco

Anton Barbeau: Anton and the Maude Squad rock the Forest @ 4pm Cloud Forest Cafe, 222 D St, Davis Comedy Allstars - in the Callback Bar @ 7pm / $20.25 Punch Line Comedy Club - Sacra‐mento, Sacramento

Alex Ramon "Magic" @ 8pm / $47.75 Harveys Cabaret at Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline Fenix Flexin @ 8pm The Rink Studios, 1031 Del Paso Blvd, Sacramento

OK, Boomer! - in the Callback Bar @ 7pm / $16.25 Punch Line Comedy Club - Sacra‐mento, Sacramento

in.deed @ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

The Lighting Section @ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

VOYEUR @ 7:30pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento

Habibi @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia Street, San Francisco

Tokischa @ 8pm War�eld, San Francisco

EDH Library - Coloring and Tea @ 3:30pm Drink tea, color, and relax. El Do‐rado County Library | El Dorado Hills Branch, 7455 Silva Valley Parkway, El Dorado Hills. 916-3583500

Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls @ 6:30pm The Regency Ballroom, 1300 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco

Stephen Steinbrink @ 7pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell St, San Francisco

PURPLE KISS 2024 BXX

Tour in Sacramento @ 7:30pm / $20-$250 The So�a Theatre, Sacramento HoleHog @ 8pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento

Sham 69 @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Photo Ops @ 8pm The Fillmore, 1805 Geary Blvd, San Francisco

Camera Obscura @ 8pm The Fillmore, 1805 Geary Blvd, San Francisco

Generacion Suicida

@ 8pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento

BIT @ 9:30pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco

EDH Library - Teen Tuesday: Flash Fiction Workshop

Sunday Jun 16th Lovin" Dead: The Mare

Blind Lemon Peel AllStars @ 6:30pm The Starlet Room, 2708 J St, Sacramento

French Cassettes @ 7pm The Starlet Room, 2708 J St, Sacramento

2 Shadows: Whispers From The West Tour @ 7pm Gold�eld Trading Post Sacramento, 1630 J St, Sacramento

Esther Black @ 7:30pm Gold�eld Trading Post Sacramento, 1630 J St, Sacramento

Paris Paloma @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia Street, San Francisco

Suisun Veterans Organizations of the Suisun Veterans Memorial Building and the American Armory Museum American Armory Mu‐seum, 4144 Abernathy Road, Fair‐�eld. joleenhuber@gmail.com, 707-208-3936

2nd Friday

The Emo Night Tour: San Francisco @ 9pm / $22 The Independent, San Francisco Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon

@ 2:30pm Develop your story-telling skills and �ex your creative muscles with this fun, stress-free writing activity! For ages 13-17. El Dorado County Library | El Dorado Hills Branch, 7455 Silva Valley Parkway, El Do‐rado Hills. 916-358-3500

@ 7am Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon features a 1.5-mile swim from Alcatraz Island to the shores of the St. Francis Yacht Club, a grueling 18mile bike ride, and a de‐manding 8-mile run. Ma‐rina Green, San Francisco. jto@alliedglobalmarket ing.com

Re�ecting Lenses: Twenty Years of Photography at the Gorman Museum @ 11am This exhibition presents photo‐graphic artworks by more than two dozen Indigenous artists from North America, Aotearoa, and Aus‐tralia. Gorman Museum of Native American Art, 181 Old Davis Road, Davis. 530-752-6567

Mimosas & Motown: Sunday Brunch, Live at the Nikko June 9 @ 11:30am / $35-$74 Feinstein's at The Nikko, San Fran‐cisco

Mungos Hi Fi @ 3pm The Flamingo House Social Club, 2315 K St, Sacramento DJ Sep: Daytime sound system party with Mungo’s Hi Fi & Solo Banton in Sacramento @ 3pm The Flamingo House Social Club, 2315 K St, Sacramento

GamperDrums: Gamper Funk Jazz - Tuesday Residency at the Boom Boom Room SF @ 6pm Boom Boom Room, 1601 Fillmore St, San Francisco

Love Spells @ 7pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell St, San Francisco

Lucky Daye: War�eld

@ 7pm The War�eld, 982 Market St, San Francisco

Diggy Graves @ 7pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission St, San Francisco

Photogra‐phy Club of Davis @ 7:30pm Join the Photogra‐phy Club of Davis when Sacramentobased professional pho‐tographer Beth Young leads a program titled: “Using Color to Elicit an Emotional Response.” Redwood Building, 1001 Anderson Road, Davis. bethbrock1234@ gmail.com, 703-298-4875

Alex Ramon "Magic" @ 8pm / $47.75 Harveys Cabaret at Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline Sham 69 @ 8pm The Starlet Room, 2708 J St, Sacramento

Alex Ramon "Magic" @ 8pm / $47.75 Harveys Cabaret at Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline Molten @ 8pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento Martin Garrix (18+ Event) @ 8pm Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 99 Grove Street, San Francisco

EDH Library - Wild Things Animal Show (OUTDOOR EVENT) @ 10am Meet wild animals up close and learn about their lives at this excit‐ing show! El Dorado County Library | El Dorado Hills Branch, 7455 Silva Valley Parkway, El Dorado Hills. 916-358-3500

Re�ecting Lenses: Twenty Years of Photography at the Gorman Museum @ 11am

This exhibition presents photo‐graphic artworks by more than two dozen Indigenous artists from North America, Aotearoa, and Aus‐tralia. Gorman Museum of Native American Art, 181 Old Davis Road, Davis. 530-752-6567

EDH Library - Fiber Arts

Group @ 1:30pm Knitting, crochet, sewing, embroi‐dery and more! El Dorado County Library | El Dorado Hills Branch, 7455 Silva Valley Parkway, El Do‐rado Hills. 916-358-3500

Echo Beach Jazz Band: Free concert at SF Civic Center @ 4pm Civic Center Plaza, 335 McAllister St, San Francisco

ception!

pence socialmedia@gmail.com, 530-758-3370 The Quitters (Duo) @ 7pm Private event, Walnut Creek Rave In The Woods: Rave Party @ Neck of the Woods SF @ 8pm / Free Neck of the Woods, San Francisco

Alex Ramon "Magic" @ 8pm / $47.75 Harveys Cabaret at Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline The Tailspins @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Pokey LaFarge @ 9pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia Street, San Francisco

Mike Dunn @ 9pm Public Works, 161 Erie St, San Francisco

Seb Wildblood @ 9pm Public Works, 161 Erie St,

Day Hiker

Continued from B3

your hike. Park at the top and walk down the paved road or, if the gate is open, drive down, almost to the bottom. From there it’s a short hike out to China Bar on the river.

Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker –Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on Amazon). The books are a collection of the

Laird Continued from B2

Amador County

This four-day fair opens Thursday, July 25, and runs through Sunday, July 28. This is a tiny fair, but it is full of local agricultural flair. You can expect to encounter exhibitors and vendors who avoid the costs of larger fairs. There’s always something unique and enjoyable. Learn more at amadorcountyfair.com.

Stanislaus County

This is the BIG ONE. Or, as I consider it, “The Other California State Fair.” The Stanislaus County Fair runs for 10 days. It opens Friday, July 5. and runs through Sunday, July 14. Learn more at stancofair.com.

This fair is over an hour from El Dorado County, but I highly recommend it to those who enjoy a large, oldfashioned fair with an emphasis on fun and agriculture. Every day is Animal Day at this fair.

People from both ends of the Golden State make an effort to attend. Last year’s attendance was more than 270,000. That’s a lot of social proof that this fair gives you some bang for your buck.

The Stan Co Fair has cooling stations and abundant shade beneath heritage trees. The campus, while clearly older, is walkable. You can get to everything in a reasonable amount of time, and there are several cooling stations. Concerts: The Stan Co Fair free concert schedule

Day Hiker columns where West shares her longtime love of the outdoors, favorite hikes in Northern California’s Gold Country and beyond. West was the recipient of the 2017 and 2019 Craft Award for Best Outdoor Column and the 2020 Craft Award for her second book in the Day Hiker series by the Outdoor Writers of California. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

includes: David Lee Murphy, Fuel, Jesus Ojeda, The Commodores, Lonestar, .38 Special, Scotty McCreery, Great White, All Time Low, and La Septima Banda. Check online for performance dates.

Premium events: In addition to the fair exhibits and free concerts, this year’s event schedule includes: tractor pulls, bloodless bullfights (Portuguese Bullfighting), destruction derbies, dirt drags, monster trucks, ranch rodeo and Mexican rodeo. These events require an additional admission purchase, which can be done online for convenience. Check online for dates.

Good to know: This is an evening fair on weekdays. Gates open at 5 p.m. on weekdays and at noon on weekends. Buildings close at 11 p.m. and the carnival is open until midnight. My family likes to spend a night at the local Fairfield Inn or the Holiday Inn Express so we can enjoy the concerts.

Fun for all

These fairs are geared to provide entertainment for every age group. There is something for everyone. So get out the sunscreen and comfy walking shoes.

No matter which fair you attend, you will see a showcase of what is best in our country and what good things lie ahead. Truly, an expo of the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. Happy summer!

Send your event for consideration in Susan’s column to slaird@handywriting.com.

have begun to absorb some of the brine.

4. Ladle hot jalapeños into a hot jar leaving a half-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary. Wipe jar rim. Center lid on jar and apply band until resistance is met. Then increase to fingertip tight. Place the jar in the canner. Repeat until all jars are filled.

5. Water must cover jars by 1 inch in a boiling water canner or come to the base of the rack in a steam canner. Adjust heat to medium-high, cover canner and bring water to a rolling boil in a boilingwater canner or until there’s a steady stream of steam coming from the steam canner. Start timing and process pint jars 15 minutes at 0-1,000 feet elevation, 20 minutes at 1,001-3,000 feet, 25 minutes at 3,001-6,000 feet and 30 minutes at 6,0018,000 feet.

6. Turn off heat, remove lid from boiling water canner, let jars stand for five minutes. For atmospheric steam canner turn off heat and let stand for three to five minutes then remove lid. Remove jars and cool for 12-24 hours. Check lids for seal; they should not flex when center is pressed. Label, date and store in a cool dark place.

The UC Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County are a great resource for answers to food safety and preserving questions. Leave a message at (530) 6215506 or email edmfp@ucanr.edu. For more information about the program, events and recipes, or to sign up to receive events by email, visit ucanr.edu/edmfp. Find the group on Facebook, too (UCCE Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County).

THURSDAY

• Rabbit Costume Contest

• El Dorado Rose Pageant

FMX Ramp-Age Freestyle Motorcross

6 pm in the Grandstands, special ticket required.

• Miss Teen El Dorado County Pageant

FRIDAY Truck & Smoker Tractor Pulls 6 pm in the Grandstands, special ticket required.

• Plein Air Painting

• Pee Wee Rodeo & Mutton Bustin’

SATURDAY

John M. Studebaker Wheelbarrow Races Competition begins 5 pm in the Grandstands, free with fair admission.

• FREE with Fair Admission Wheelbarrow Races

• Impulse Dance Academy

• “Learn to Dance Cupcakes”

• The Outlaw Mariachi

Saturday • FREE with Fair Admission Rubicon Jeep Jamboree Challenge

SUNDAY

Pollock Pines Elementary School District honors outstanding students

• Foothill Dance Studio

• Horse Drill Team

• Family-Look-Alike Contest

Rubicon Jeep Jamboree Challenge: Competition begins 2 pm in the Grandstands, free with fair admission.

Sunday • FREE with Fair Admission PLUS: All-Alaskan Pedal Puller

Mutton Bustin’ • Dr. Jon’s Comedy Hypnosis Four Stages of Music and

4 STAGES OF LIVE MUSIC free with fair admission all 4 days of Fair.

Each year the Pollock Pines Elementary School District Board of Trustees recognizes exceptional students with the Special Recognition Awards. The 2024 awards were presented during the regular board meeting on May 14, celebrating students who inspire others, show great care, persevere through challenges, make significant progress in citizenship and demonstrate a commitment to selfimprovement.

Pre-Fair Discount Tickets at eldoradocountyfair.org El Dorado County Fair • Placerville • 530-621-5860

Call (530) 622-1255 to subscribe.

Pinewood Elementary and Sierra Ridge Middle School had the privilege of honoring two exemplary students: fourth-grader Anthony McGregor and eighthgrader Gavin Emmit. Anthony was recognized for his outstanding academic improvement and perseverance through di cult challenges. His teachers have praised his diligence and commitment to

helping fellow students and adults. Anthony’s consistent e orts and positive attitude have earned him the admiration of his peers and teachers alike.

“Anthony’s diligence is truly appreciated by his teachers,” remarked a Pinewood Elementary representative. “He has not only made remarkable academic progress but has also shown a commendable commitment to helping others. Anthony exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding citizen.” Gavin was unanimously selected by the sta for the award. Administrator Jeremy Ogzewalla, speaking at the board meeting, highlighted Gavin’s consistent attendance, academic excellence and positive influence on the school community.

“Gavin embodies the spirit of a SR Wolverine,” said Ogzewalla. “With over 95% attendance and a 3.8 GPA, Gavin has shown a dedication to his studies and a commitment to excellence. His infectious smile and positive attitude inspire others to be better, and his care for those around him creates a welcoming environment.”

The board is proud to honor Anthony and Gavin, whose exceptional qualities and contributions make them shining examples within their schools and the broader community. For more information regarding

Courtesy photos

Pinewood Elementary fourth-grader Anthony McGregor stands with staff and family after receiving his Special Recognition Award.

Sierra Ridge eighth-grader Gavin Emmit proudly holds his Special Recognition Award presented by Administrator Jeremy Ogzewalla.

the demonstration garden; serving as Agricultural Building Department chair within her Master Gardener capacity; and co-creating and teaching public education Growing a Cutting Garden classes.

Expanding upon her agricultural interest she is also active with the El Dorado County Fair. She is a member of the Friends of the Fair and chairs the El Dorado County Fair Decorating Committee for the Agricultural Building.

As a member of the Placerville Garden Club she created and maintains an Adopt-A-Spot at the fairgrounds and participates in the Hangtown Christmas Parade.

When not in her garden she teaches classes for the American Sewing Guild, maintains the chapter website and creates the chapter newsletter.

Back in her cutting gardens she crafts bouquets to take senior living facilities, businesses and friends.

Married to John Butler for 40 years, the couple has four children, five grandchildren and one greatgrandchild.

“My great-grandmother Ruby Morris Melchior was a suffragette and school teacher in Garden Valley. Her brother Roland Morris was El Dorado County Sheriff. My parents met at the Pino Grande Logging Camp. There is so much history to share,” she said.

Her sponsor is the Gold Country Chapter of the American Sewing Guild.

Kathryn“ Gilly” Gillihan of Placerville is sponsored by the American Legion Post 119, El Dorado; Lilly of the Valley, Homestead Market; and Dolores Wadsworth. Born to Alden and Troma Gillihan (who owned Gilly’s Auto Wreckers) at Marshall Hospital, she credits her parents and especially her mother for her artistic and musical talents.

She has used these assets to be successful at entertaining, teaching, earning funds for many organizations and to raising talented and successful daughters.

Gillihan served the U.S. Air Force in 1979, as a female carpenter, maintained base facilities and was later honorably discharged. The U.S. Navy military

wife of Chief Petty Officer Scott Friddle, Retired, who served for 20 years, continued using her carpentry skills in the building industry and also worked in the restoration of buildings destroyed by fires.

In the military she coordinated many events, acted as a Navy Ombudsman — a liaison between civilian and military — and participated in charity events. She also taught elementary art and music.

Locally she organized a Meeks Family Fundraiser in 1995 that included a 150-student march, coordinating individuals from city hall, media, merchants and patrons at the Bell Tower to help the family. A fire had happened that took two El Dorado High School teenagers lives and destroyed the family’s home. Thanks to the special event, a generous contractor offered to build a new home free of charge.

Another march she put together was for cancer awareness with Janet Bethell being the beneficiary.

Her artistic gift has been shared at schools, fire departments and Main Street merchants. She has lent her talents face painting and even the designing lettering on the Holly Jolly Trolley.

Her lovely voice has been enjoyed by her performances of the National Anthem at many events, residents at convalescent hospitals and those lucky enough to receive a singing telegram.

She has also donated time to the Lilly of the Valley Charity Homestead Store in many capacities from serving as a riding instructor to crisis prevention and facilitating a safe house meeting place for family reunification process.

“I am humbled and honored to represent El Dorado County and give back to El Dorado all that it has given to me,” the sixth-generation resident said.

A love of history and a call to serve her community have been the sign posts for Sandra M. Hand, M.D., during her active life. The accomplished El Dorado Hills resident is the Placerville Shakespeare Club nominee for 2024 El Dorado Rose.

Born in Washington to a family with a true pioneer spirit, she grew up in Oregon and was fascinated studying her family heritage going back to early

Public Notices 

not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 05/08/2024 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY 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 ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. 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.,

State of LLC: CA The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 04/01/2024 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Spencer Aldrich-Shadle SPENCER ALDRICH-SHADLE, MANAGER I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 05/10/2024 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY 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 ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. 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

registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 05/10/2024 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY 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 ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN

Oregon pioneers. That influence fueled a lifelong passion to study history and recreate it in many avenues from museum work, acting as a costumed docent and joining historical societies to visiting schools — all to bring the past alive.

“The past is a different country we can only visit as a tourist. I do not want to live there but there is much to learn when there,” she said.

Her passion to help heal took many iterations but always with a direction to make life better for others. Desiring to enter the medical field she found in the early ’60s that women were “discouraged” from taking one of the limited number of spaces. She focused on language, dance and education. The never-give-upon-your-dreams attitude blossomed after a move to California in 1968. She earned a medical technology license and volunteered in public health clinics, and the opportunity to study medicine at University of California, Davis happened in 1974. Not only did this start a successful medical career but also is where she met husband Douglas Peterson, M.D. The couple worked tirelessly in the health field. Sandra worked in baby clinics, AIDS clinics and health centers. With her pediatrician husband, the couple opened a joint private practice in Antioch in 1982.

After serving as a medical director and more volunteering, the now mother of two boys and her husband accepted an offer to work in the medical end of the prison system. This brought the family to El Dorado Hills.

They joined living history programs and Sandra served on school site councils, was a Snowline Hospice volunteer, long-term ombudsman for the county and member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Placerville Shakespeare Club.

“I am so looking forward to the honor of serving in the Rose Court with my other talented 2024 team. As we Roses embody our history and hostess events we are celebrating the continuing richness of El Dorado County and its people which have been so central to California and the nation we live in today,” she said.

Daycare and Presch l Where Learning and Love go Hand in Hand! Celebrating service to the community since 1999! We offer education and care for babies, Preschoolers, Pre-K, private Kindergarten. Teachers are educated in Child Development, CPR and First Aid certi ed, and make it a priority to continue their education.