Mountain Democrat, Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Junior Livestock Auction sees community generosity

Odin Rasco

Staff writer

Hopeful buyers sat in a packed pavilion, poised to purchase pounds of pork, poultry and more as the 2023 Junior Livestock Auction at the El Dorado County Fair kicked off 10 a.m. Saturday.

The exhibitors — members of 4-H clubs, Granges, Future Farmers of America and occasionally independent programs, took the stage one by one with the animals they spent close to a year raising and finally saw the reward for their hard work as bidding battles commenced. Turkeys, hogs, steers, chickens, goats, lambs and rabbits all made appearances at the auction, sometimes setting off flurries of bids that surged past the market price by

crashes and dashes

orders of magnitude.

For many sellers the money was a welcome reward for a job well done (and, likely, reimbursement for themselves and their parents for everything that went into raising the livestock for the better part of a year); for others, the sales went deeper than just spending money.

As the auction kicked into full swing, Jace Gordon was recovering from injuries sustained in a car crash the week prior that had reportedly seen the Camino Go-Getters 4-H club member life-flighted for treatment.

After the auctioneer shared Jace’s story with the crowd buyers dug deep and bid their way into a three-way split of the hog at a whopping $50 per

— try to keep your shoes on for the wheelbarrow races

Nearly 90 participants pushed, pulled and even carried wheelbarrows full of sand or “ore” around an obstacle course created on the Placerville Speedway quarter-mile with a pool of $4,200 up for grabs across eight divisions.

Saturday night saw the 79th annual John M. Studebaker Wheelbarrow Races test strength, agility and speed — an El Dorado County Fair tradition. The evening got off to a hot start with the youngest attendees racing for bags of candy before the youngest official racers took to the track. The crowd’s energy carried through all the

way to the main events.

After narrowly missing out on first place in 2022’s event, Ruth Thornton was on a warpath in the Women’s Championship. She handily won the race, taking home the $1,000 prize while seemingly never breaking a sweat.

The Women’s Championship also produced the event’s Most Inspirational award winner — Hannah Alexander. Alexander gutted out the course to a chorus of cheers from the crowd despite losing her shoes to Deep Creek, a mud pit just before the finish line.

The final division of the evening,

Women’s Championship Race winners Josie Rothman, Ruth Thornton and Rashell Veerkamp-Hawkinson, from left, celebrate after weighing in with their load of ore. Rothman placed second, Thornton handily took first place and VeerkampHawkinson took third.

Mountain Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

Melanie Hellam with Latrobe Outlanders 4-H sold her Supreme Champion Pen of 3 Rabbits for $700 during the Junior Livestock Auction at the El Dorado County Fair Saturday.

Mountain Democrat photos by Isaac Streeter

Hudson Eymann crashes his wheelbarrow in the 79th running of the John M. Studebaker Wheelbarrow Races Saturday night at the El Dorado County Fair. Eymann had an early lead before the crash but fell behind and was disqualified after losing too much ore.

Shane Heywood, a Union Mine FFA member, took the purple ribbon at the 2023 El Dorado County Fair for his cow that was named Supreme Champion Market Steer. The cow weighed in at 1,300 pounds.

Isaac Streeter Staff writer

Obituaries on this page are written and paid for by the families or funeral homes. They are edited minimally by the Mountain Democrat. To submit an obituary, call (530) 622-1255, e-mail obits@mtdemocrat.net, fax (530) 344-5092, or visit mtdemocrat.com under “Submission Forms” at the bottom of the website. Include contact information with all submissions.

Roger Holbrook

Oct. 2, 1938 - April 8, 2023

Roger was born in Los Angeles, Calif. His young years were growing up in rural Los Angeles with the freedom of being a kid. In 1954 he moved to Lake Tahoe with his parents and 2 brothers where he attended Tahoe Truckee High School. After graduating high school he joined the Navy for 4 years where he maintained Interior Communications systems on the USS Plumas County LST -1083. He met the love of his life, Bonnie Maitland and they were married in 1960 in Burbank. They were married for over 62 years and had 2 wonderful sons.

After graduating from Cal State Northridge, Roger moved his family of 4 to Placerville in 1973 and remained in the Placerville area for the next 50 years.

In 1974 Roger was hired by the Franchise Tax Board and remained working there for the next 25 years. He made many friends there from the van pool share ride, motorcycle riding group, bicycle riding gang, and golf buddies. He also was an avid motocross enthusiast. In fact, he loved all sports.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Holbrook and Billie Goss Wisdom, step-mother Betty Holbrook and brother Dean. He is survived by his devoted wife Bonnie, sons Darin and Dak, brothers Gary (Dixie), Varney (Ann Marie), Freddy and Scott Wisdom as well as many nieces and nephews.

Roger embraced life. He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He was a wonderful husband, father and friend. His spirit and memories live on in our hearts.

Starr Lynn Palumbo (Gaschler)

Jan. 31, 1953 - May 30, 2023

Starr Lynn Palumbo (Gaschler), 70, arrived at her heavenly home in the early morning hours on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Although Starr’s body is gone, her spirit of adventure, fearlessness and friendship lives on through her family, friends and students.

Born in 1953 to a large German family in Downey California, Starr was an intelligent and motivated woman who was influenced by her parents to have an incredible work ethic and forgiving nature. In her 30’s, Starr fulfilled a lifetime dream of going to college, getting her degree, and earning her teaching credentials. She taught for more than 25 years until retirement. Her students meant the world to her and the reason for her passion for teaching.

Starr always looked at adversity in the face and dared it to defeat her. She was always willing to help others with gardening, cleaning, teaching and was always willing to share stories of her many travel adventures with her husband Jim, friends, family or by herself, so we could all live vicariously through her experiences. Starr was a faithful Christian who created strong friendships within her church and community. Even in the face of her own trials, Starr remained a steadfast, optimistic friend to everyone she knew, many of whom lined up to visit her in her last few months.

Starr will be missed by her husband Jim Palumbo; sons and daughters-in-law, Michael and Tracey McPeters, Robb and Tonde McPeters, Emiliano and Therese Palumbo; daughter Donielle Go net and Dave Watson. Along with all her grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins and her many, many friends.

Starr especially loved being a grandmother to Michael III., Alexie, Hailey, Natalee, Gri n, Ella Starr, Andrew and Ryan, often taking them with her on her travels and giving them many memories to carry her with them through the years.

Starr is preceded in death by her father and mother, brothers Lee and Barry and many, many aunts, uncles, and cousins. We know that God is pleased to have one of His beautiful, generous and kind daughter’s back in his arms, but she will be sorely missed by those on earth. We are sure she is now working amongst the heavenly gardens with her precious mother and picking flowers with her beloved niece Evalee.

There will not be a service, but at Starr’s request, in lieu of flowers or gifts, please donate to your favorite charity.

Larry Swafford

Nov. 23, 1940 - May 26, 2023

The Swa ord Family is saddened to announce the passing of Larry Swa ord on May 26, 2023 after a protracted battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born and raised in Placerville, CA, Larry attended El Dorado High School where he was a proud member of the football team. Following his graduation, Larry held a variety of jobs including building rockets at Aerojet and working as a lineman for the telephone company, but his greatest joy and achievement was his time as a Firefighter and Captain at the Fire Department.

Larry enjoyed hunting with his dogs, fishing, scuba diving, tennis, golf and endurance horseback riding. Above all, Larry was loving and devoted to his family. He is survived by his former wife, Gale, wife, Georgiana, and his children Tracy (Jim), Teresa, Travis (Danielle), and his sister, Sharon. He was a proud grandfather and uncle to his grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Larry will be remembered at a celebration of his life on July 8 from 1:00-4:00 pm in Sierra Room at 471 Maidu Drive, Auburn, CA 95603.

Nancy Silver Needham

April 16, 1936 - June 13, 2023

Nancy Silver Needham, passed away at her home on June 13, 2023. She was born on April 16, 1936 in Sacramento, CA where in high school she met Clyde Needham, who she married April 24, 1954. They moved their family to Placerville in 1968 and enjoyed many years through community, church, and sports. Nancy’s career started at El Dorado High School and then in the healthcare industry, including many years at Marshall Hospital. She had many lifelong friends who she loved spending time with. She was quick to laugh, had an exceptional memory and a gift for parties.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Clifton and Lee Silver, Clyde (2018), son Bradley (2017) and sister Carol. She is survived by her daughter Kaly and husband Larry Campbell and their family, her sister Jan Jackson and family.

The funeral services will be held Monday, June 26 at 10am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 3431 Hacienda Rd, Cameron Park.

Lydia Barrette Sloan

July 23, 1928 - June 8, 2023

Lydia Barrette Sloan, age 94, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of June 8, 2023, at Ponte Palmero in Cameron Park. She was preceded in in death by her parents, Lydia Barrette Sinclair and William Sinclair, and her husband of 63 years, Charles Austin Sloan Jr.

Lydia was born in Hawaii where she had an adventurous childhood. Her favorite childhood memory was sitting in the yard at Lanikai playing cards under a tent in the rain. She attended Punahou School until relocating to the mainland with her family in 1941, a few months before the bombing at Pearl Harbor. After briefly trying out a farming lifestyle in Washington State, the novelty of milking cows and farming soon wore o and the family moved to Palo Alto, where Lydia lived for most of her life. Lydia attended Palo Alto High School and Stanford University, (as did her husband Charles) graduating Phi Beta Kappa in 1951 with a degree in Political Science. After graduating, she worked at the State Department in Washington D.C. before marrying and raising her family.

Education was important to Lydia’s family, and it was important to her. She read widely, deeply, and often. She was current on politics and events around the world and was sympathetic to the perspectives and su ering of others. While other mothers cleaned house; she read the American Scholar and later added The Economist. She was mentally sharp and intellectually engaged. She possessed an outstanding memory and was telling stories about things few others could remember until the final few days of her life. She led a healthy and active lifestyle with hiking, biking, and gardening.

She is survived by her sister Louisa Cooper (Honolulu), daughters Blue (Phil) Tierney and Catherine Dickson (Steve) Schwarzbach of Placerville, her son David Sloan of Hollister, her grandchildren Laurel Lydia Schwarzbach of Oakland, Kirk (Carl Baloney) Schwarzbach of Washington D.C., Will (Erika Lundgrin) Tierney of Cleveland, and Charlie (Haley Godwin) Tierney of Sacramento. Her greatest joy at the end of her life was seeing her great grandchildren Ansel and Barrette Tierney and Aristide and Lydia Schwarzbach-Baloney. She was very proud of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and felt fortunate to be surrounded by their love.

Darla Jean Estey

Reddin Hernandez

April 21, 1938 - June 1, 2023

Darla was born in Placerville, CA. April 21, 1938, and passed away peacefully in her home with family by her side on June 1. She lived her life to the fullest, 85 wonderful years!!!

Darla had a spit- fire spirit and a beautiful smile that would warm your heart. She loved Placerville and was a very active member in the community, Beta Sigma Phi, Shakespeare Club and was the 2018 El Dorado County Rose. Heaven received a special angel. We love you Darla. Fly Butterfly.

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Brenda June Crain

Jan. 19, 1944 - May 4, 2023

Brenda was born on January 19, 1944 in San Luis Obispo, California. She went to Heaven on May 4, 2023 from Placerville, California.

She was the loving wife of her surviving husband, Ron, of thirty five years. Brenda and Ron met in Dallas, Texas in 1980 and immediately fell in love. They worked together, played together and instantly became one.

Brenda is also survived by her niece, LeeAnne Mila, and her great nephews Colin and Nathan Mila. Brenda graduated from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo with a degree in Journalism. She worked as a training manager for over twenty years at Pacific Bell in San Francisco and The Southland Corporation in Dallas. Upon retiring in 1987, Ron and Brenda got married and moved to Placerville where Brenda bought and owned a feed and grain, ranch supply, and pet grooming business until she sold it in 2005.

Brenda loved nice clothes and jewelry. Everywhere she went she was always dressed to the hilt. She also loved gardening, at one time becoming a beekeeper. But her real passion was animals. She took in strays others had abandoned and provided medical help for people who were not able to take their pets to a vet. She spent a lot of time and took wonderful care of all her pets, from horses to cats, dogs, sheep, ducks and more. She donated unselfishly to wildlife organizations including ASPCA, The Audubon Society, Sierra Wildlife and others.

Brenda’s friends and family will remember her as kind, loving, generous, vibrant and fun loving. We will all miss you.

A memorial service will be held for Brenda on June 24th at 1:00 at the Green Valley Mortuary, 3004 Alexandrite Drive, Rescue, CA 95672. (530) 677-7171

You are all invited to attend a Celebration of Life immediately following the service at our home: 4680 Holm Rd, Placerville, CA.

Anthony “Tony” Kassman

Nov. 18, 1967 – June 7, 2023

Anthony “Tony” Kassman, age 55, of Placerville, CA, passed away June 7, 2023. Anthony was born November 18, 1967 in Sacramento, CA. He was born to Larry Kassman and Lupe Henderson. Anthony moved to El Dorado, CA. in 1979. He graduated from Ponderosa High School then attended ITT Tech. He was great at anything he set his sights on. He was the most generous person we have ever known and he always tried his best to make people happy and if he could help with anything he would. His humor was amazing and his laugh will not be forgotten. He loved his Corvettes and one of the last things he did was be a part of a Corvette run. He enjoyed life to the fullest. He will be greatly missed by everyone.

Anthony is survived by his son Brittin Kassman, his mother Lupe Henderson and his sister Julie Stroup (Denis, Lexi and Derek) and many family members. A service was held at Lake Oaks Senior Community Park, 4280 Patterson Drive, Diamond Springs. CA. 95619, on June 19, 2023 with family and close friends.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

Howard (Jack) Tillotson

A Memorial Service will be held on June 23rd at 11:00 AM at the Green Valley Mortuary, 3004 Alexandrite Drive, Rescue.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

James Edward “Chappy” Chapman

April 20, 1942 -November 27, 2022

A Celebration of Life will take place July 1, 2023, 3:00 p.m. at Fausel Ranch, 4881 Hanks Exchange Road, Placerville, CA.

CORRECTION

In the Monday, June 19 edition of the Mountain Democrat, the El Dorado Community Foundation was incorrectly identified as the El Dorado Community Alliance in “Restoring Hope – landing community center for Grizzly Flat.”

Logtown home destroyed

Mountain Democrat staff

Flames gutted a Stope Way home in Logtown

Friday afternoon.

The two-story residence became engulfed with some surrounding vegetation also catching fire, according to El Dorado County Fire Protection District o cials.

Firefighters jumped on any escaping flames and were ultimately able to extinguish the house fire. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Diamond Spring-El

Dorado Fire Protection

District crews got the call at about 4:45 p.m. Assisting in the firefight were personnel from the EDCFPD, as well as Cameron Park/Cal Fire and Rescue fire departments.

OBITUARIES

Chris “Crue” Fusano

Firefighters put out hot spots after a fire engulfed a home on Stope Way in Logtown, south of the town of El Dorado.

Wildfire held to 5.6 acres

Noel Stack

Managing editor

Flames charred 5.6 acres of grass and brush at the end of Arroyo Vista Way north of Green Valley Road in El Dorado Hills Saturday afternoon.

The Vista Fire broke out just before 2 p.m, prompting a quick response from the El Dorado Hills Fire Department as well as firefighters from the Cal Fire El Dorado-Amador Unit and Cameron Park and Rescue fire departments. The blaze was fought on the

Hills.

ground and in the air, with Cal Fire dropping retardant to protect

nearby homes. Crews remained on scene for several hours mopping

up after forward progress had been stopped.

EDH Woman hit by own car

Odin Rasco

Staff writer

An El Dorado Hills woman was sent to the hospital with minor injuries after being pinned by her own vehicle June 13.

At about 6:17 a.m., a 55-year-old woman pulled up to a gate on Riviera Circle in El Dorado Hills close to Stephen Harris Park and got out of her vehicle to open the gate. The vehicle did not remain stationary, however, and rolled forward, pinning the woman

CRIME LOG

The following was taken from El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office logs:

May 30

3:33 p.m. Vehicle burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

5:04 p.m. Burglary was reported on Sparrow Lane in Shingle Springs.

6:54 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Keystone Drive in El Dorado Hills.

7:31 p.m. Deputies cited a person after responding to a battery report on Cimmarron Road in Cameron Park.

8:42 p.m. Grand theft was reported at Loon Lake on Ice House Road.

9:53 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 43-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance, embezzlement and receiving stolen property on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines. He was released on $7,500 bail.

10:22 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a store on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

10:27 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 19-year-old man suspected of making criminal threats and carrying a loaded firearm in public on Town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. He was listed in custody in lieu of $200,000 bail.

May 31

2:13 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 52-year-old man suspected of firing without a license on Industrial Drive in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $7,500 bail.

9:20 a.m. Burglary was reported on Clubhouse Drive in Placerville.

10:29 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 51-year-old woman suspected of a probation violation on Howard Circle in Diamond Springs. She was released on $10,000 bail.

12:36 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle on Market Court in Shingle Springs. He was listed in custody in lieu of $120,000 bail.

1:31 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 43-year-old woman suspected of possession of a controlled substance, carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle and DUI on Highway 50 (town not specified). The suspect also has a warrant out for her arrest. She was listed in custody in lieu of $150,000 bail.

7:21 p.m. Deputies booked into jail

a 44-year-old man suspected of contempt of court on Sly Park Road in Pollock Pines. He was listed in custody in lieu of $7,000 bail.

7:49 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 41-year-old man suspected of arson and a probation violation on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $110,000 bail.

8:01 p.m. Battery was reported on Arroyo Vista Way in Placerville.

10:04 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 45-year-old man suspected of DUI on Forni Road in Placerville. He was later released. June

1:19 a.m. Deputies booked into

between her car and the gate, according to a CHP o cial familiar with the situation. It is unclear at this time if the driver had forgotten to set the brake, if the vehicle was still in gear or what factor contributed to the vehicle’s continued movement after the driver had left the car. Information as to the make and model of the vehicle was not available.

The woman, whose identity was not made public, was sent to Sutter Roseville Medical Center with complaints of pain in her wrist and abdomen, according to CHP reports.

jail a 42-year-old man suspected of DUI on Cameron Park Drive in Cameron Park. He was released on $5,000 bail.

1:52 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 63-year-old man suspected of disorderly conduct on Front Street in Georgetown. He was later released.

4:47 a.m. Burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Mira Loma Drive in Cameron Park.

6:54 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Buckboard Road in Placerville.

9:44 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 36-year-old man suspected of battery and child abuse on Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. He was released on $20,000 bail.

12:40 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Barite Street in El Dorado.

2:53 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Buena Vista Drive in Shingle Springs.

4:36 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 57-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia and a probation violation on El Dorado Hills Boulevard in El Dorado Hills. He was listed in custody in lieu of $1,750 bail.

8:01 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 27-year-old man suspected of DUI and probation violations on Odd Fellows Road in Diamond Springs. He was listed in custodian lieu of $16,500 bail.

June 2

12:46 a.m. Deputies booked

Feb. 10, 1948 – June 6, 2023

Christopher George Fusano was born & raised in Sylmar, CA. The oldest of 8 children to John & Anita Fusano, he learned the family olive oil business. After proudly serving in the Army in 1974 he moved his young family to El Dorado County. Chris or Crue was a lifelong entrepreneur with a big heart for the community. His passion for God, life, family & friends was unmatched including his tough love mentality. Using his quick wit & humor he lifted spirits & left everyone he interacted with smiling. He was firmly anchored in Placerville coaching youth sports & investing in El Dorado County. Crue’s many hobbies consisted of agriculture, hunting, music, horses, cars & boats. Chris eventually moved to his ranch in Amador County which he deeply loved. He is survived by his beautiful wife of 54 years, Bettie Ann, 3 children, John (Nicolle) Fusano, Laurena (Darrin) Martin, Christina (Dustin) Hinds & 7 grandchildren, 5 siblings, Roseanne Perito, Annie Weatherbee, Lem Fusano, Marlene Rini & Joe Fusano. He is predeceased by 2 brothers, Vanda & Beany Fusano. His funeral will be Friday, June 30th, viewing 12-1 pm, Service 1 pm at Holy Trinity Parish in El Dorado Hills, the reception immediately following at the Placerville Fairgrounds in the Forni Building. If desired donations can be made to the Boys & Girls Club of El Dorado County Western Slope.

WEATHER

into jail a 48-year-old woman suspected of being under the influence of a controlled substance on South Street in Georgetown. She was later released.

9:12 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 31-year-old man suspected of DUI and petty theft on Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $75,000 bail.

9:18 a.m. Burglary was reported on North Shingle Road in Shingle Springs.

9:45 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Lotus Road in Placerville.

11:32 a.m. Grand theft was reported at a motel on Coach Lane in Cameron Park.

4:08 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 63-year-old man suspected of felony vandalism on El Dorado Road in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $25,000 bail.

4:09 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 41-year-old man suspected of arranging a meeting with a minor with the intent of sex, distributing obscene materials to minors and attempted kidnapping on Vine Street in El Dorado Hills. He was listed in custody in lieu of $435,000 bail.

5:25 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 23-year-old man suspected of DUI on Pony Express Trail in Pollock Pines. He was later released.

5:36 p.m. Petty theft was reported on Carson Road in Camino.

8:20 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 40-year-old woman suspected of disorderly conduct and a probation violation on Missouri Flat Road in Placerville.

5-DAY

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MY FILLING IS MISSING

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Whether you are in our office for repairs of a missing filling, a smile makeover, or for a simple cleaning, our personal, casual, and relaxed style in providing quality dental care will help put you at ease. We’ll take the time to get to know your needs, answer questions about home care of any dental issues, tell you about the latest techniques and materials, and make sure that you are comfortable. Find out just how pleasant a visit to the dentist and enhancing your smile can be—call us for complete family dental care.

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Photo courtesy of El Dorado County Fire Protection District

Photo courtesy of EDH Fire

A Cal Fire tanker drops retardant on wildland fire that broke out Saturday afternoon in El Dorado

Legislators pass sham budget to protect their paychecks

Let’s say you want a promotion to a higherranking position that will also mean a hefty increase in pay, but to be considered you need a master’s degree in your field and you only have a bachelor’s degree.

You have three choices: Be satisfied with the job you have, go back to school to get that advanced degree or lie about having it already. You might get away with the latter but if you get caught, you probably will be fired.

Something like that occurred last week when the Legislature pretended to have a state budget, but it’s really a sham to protect lawmakers’ paychecks.

The stage was set for this political charade 13 years ago when voters passed Proposition 25, which lowered the legislative vote requirement for budgets from twothirds to a simple majority.

Democrats and their political allies placed the measure on the ballot to block Republicans from having any say over the budget, thus ending decades of often convoluted dealmaking that sometimes delayed budget enactment for weeks or even months.

Letters to the Editor

What was the point again?

EDITOR:

I’ve lived my entire adult life arguing how Title 9 was unfair to men participating in college sports, but now I’ve seen everything. The supposed same people who pushed for fairness and empowerment to women under Title 9 are mandating that men be allowed to compete in women’s sports.

SUMMARY

The California Legislature played charades last week, passing a budget bill to meet the June 15 constitutional deadline even though it’s not the real budget. It will, however, protect lawmakers’ paychecks.

Proposition 25 not only lowered the vote requirement but decreed that “in any year in which the budget bill is not passed by the Legislature by midnight on June 15, there shall be no appropriation from the current budget or future budget to pay any salary or reimbursement for travel or living expenses for members of the Legislature during any regular or special session for the period from midnight on June 15 until the day that the budget bill is presented to the governor. No salary or reimbursement for

■ See WALTERS, page A5

Guest Column

I’m old enough to remember the arguments against Title 9 being, what if men want to participate in the women’s sports? Here’s what I know, I was opposed to girls competing against boys in wrestling because a 13-year-old girl is biologically physically more advanced than a 13-year-old boy in the same weight class. Compounded with is what happens to a boy’s psyche who loses to a girl; it just didn’t seem fair.

Today in California, girls have an all-female state wrestling tournament. California JUCO has instituted that there is now mandatory women’s wrestling to coincide with men’s and many California four-year schools like Menlo College have robust teams that compete and win nationally.

I believe trans people should have the option of competing in the division they were born in or have their own classification to compete in.

I believe that the purpose of male and female sports is for fairness and the empowerment of women. I don’t find it fair if people born male take over women’s sports. I also believe that trans people have a right of empowerment to compete in sports against other trans people.

KEN STEERS Cameron Park

Creating demand

EDITOR:

Scott Taylor’s letter on gun violence is one of the most clueless I’ve read in a long time. What he calls assault rifles tells me he wouldn’t know a real assault rifle if he tripped over it.

Most shootings are gang and youth related and they primarily use handguns. Which, by the way, can be reloaded so fast that you probably wouldn’t notice the di erence between those and the evil, high-capacity magazines.

Before 1968 one could go into a store and buy a gun with almost no paperwork besides the receipt and yet we had far fewer problems. How does that square with your availability argument, Mr. Taylor? Of course back then, when kids messed up they were punished and if they were violent at school the students were quickly expelled and sent to continuation schools. Now they come up with sociological excuses for them and let their violence infect the rest of the student body.

Also, Mr. Taylor makes no reference to the thousands of violent felons the Democrats have released from prisons and the armed parolees released after 10-day timeouts in jail. His argument is about as bad as promoting severe gasoline restrictions while freeing arsonists by the thousands.

Most ridiculous of all is Mr. Taylor’s four steps to mitigate the problem. His first is making gun manufacturers liable for the misuse of their products. Hope you like walking Mr. Taylor since car manufactures would be out of business quickly as they would be responsible for all drunk-driving deaths or injuries.

He says we need to make guns less available. First, as I pointed out earlier, we had less crime when they were more available like in the ‘50s. Second, remember prohibition? Prohibition didn’t end drinking, it created a bigger demand for it which organized crime quickly filled.

Those gangs bringing truckloads of drugs across the border are not into drugs, Mr. Taylor; they are into money and anything that provides it. Get draconian and create a demand at the same time, you create a market for guns that the gangs would quickly fill like they did with alcohol. And the guns they bring in won’t be what you call assault rifles, they’ll be the real thing.

Criminals should love you, Mr. Taylor, because people like you and many on the left unknowingly support criminals’ agendas.

GEORGE ALGER Placerville

How about a presidential campaign about vision and principles?

With the most recent entry of former Vice President Mike Pence and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie into the presidential race, I count now 12 Republican candidates in the field.

Former President Donald Trump retains a strong lead in the polls, with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis a strong second.

But it is still very early in the game and even the most casual observer of politics knows that the situation is fluid and what will be remains to be seen.

What is clear is that in the big picture of things, Americans are not at all happy with the situation in their country.

In most recent Gallup polling, only 18% say they are satisfied with the direction of the country. This is not new.

Over the last 15 years there was only one month in which more than 40% expressed satisfaction with how things are going.

Looking at the breakdown by party ID, Gallup shows, as of April, only 4% of Republicans satisfied with the country’s direction, 16% of independents and 29% of Democrats.

This tells me there is a big opportunity for change to a Republican presidency.

But the question remains: Who and what it will take?

More importantly, will the presidential campaign be another exercise in bumper cars, where the one who makes noise the best wins? Or will we hear and choose a vision for the nation and its future?

Recently in a Wall Street Journal column, former Wisconsin Gov. and presidential candidate Scott Walker o ered good advice.

Walker was an enormously successful governor and conservative reformer in Wisconsin. This made him a star and he entered the 2016 presidential race. But he failed.

He attributes his failure to running on his record rather than laying out a vision of “big, bold ideas” for the

country.

Rather than listening to consultants and running on his record, Walker says he wishes he laid out an aggressive program like “a national flat tax, sending the responsibility for education back to the states and schools, work requirements for public assistance and term limits for public service.”

I think it’s good advice. But I would take it one step further.

We need to restore discussion about what the country is about.

Regarding issues, I know what I would like to hear. I have been writing about it for years.

On the economic front, we must get our fiscal house in order. Republicans had success in the recent debt ceiling debate. But relatively speaking, it was a tiny victory. The country is still staggering under massive government and debt, which is retarding productivity and growth.

A major part of the government

burden is tied to our bankrupt Social Security and Medicare entitlement programs that no candidate has shown the courage to take on.

On the social front, the country is dangerously aging because of the collapse of family and children and, for years, a free abortion regime.

I want to see candidates take these things on.

But more, we need candidates to talk about what our country is about. Who are we?

Are we a free nation under God?

If yes, what does this mean? What principles does this translate into regarding how we live and how we understand our government, our Constitution and how we are governed? And what policies follow from these principles?

If we are not a free nation under God, what does that mean and where does it take us?

DAN WALTERS

Garden Valley burn planned

Mountain Democrat staff

The Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit will conduct a prescribed burn and live fire training burn near Garden Valley today.

The burn is scheduled from approximately 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., dependent on any restrictions set forth by the El Dorado County Air Quality Management District and favorable fire weather conditions, states a Cal Fire news release.

The burn is planned in the area of Bacchi Ranch near Garden Valley. Smoke is expected to be visible from the communities of Coloma/Lotus, Cool, Garden Valley, Greenwood and Georgetown.

Cal Fire o cials note the objective is to burn approximately 140 acres of open grasslands to continue the reduction of fuels in the fuel break and increase fire protection. This burn also aims to provide firefighters the opportunity to train and accrue live fire experience while learning safe, e ective fire suppression techniques.

Personnel with the Garden Valley and the El Dorado County fire protection districts will also assist.

Cal Fire prescribed burns are evaluated hourly on the day of the burn, utilizing a checklist that is based on weather, resource availability and incident activity, according to the news release. If burning conditions become unfavorable for a safe, controlled burn, operations will be immediately stopped.

Walters Continued from A4 travel or living expenses forfeited pursuant to this subdivision shall be paid retroactively.”

The legislative pay language was included to persuade voters that lowering the vote requirement was a good thing because it would prevent long stalemates by punishing lawmakers for failure to meet the June 15 deadline.

The language was tested a year later when the Legislature passed a budget, but newly inaugurated Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed it as being unbalanced and state Controller John Chiang suspended legislators’ paychecks, declaring that parts of the budget were “miscalculated, miscounted or unfinished.”

Chiang’s actions incensed lawmakers and they later obtained a judicial ruling that the Legislature itself is the only authority on whether its budget satisfies the June 15 deadline. Thus, the Legislature can merely pass a bill it labels as a budget by that date, regardless of its content, and continue to be paid.

That is what happened last week.

On June 11 two measures, Assembly Bill 101 and Senate Bill 101, were amended to become identical budget bills and legislative leaders declared their intent to pass one or the other and send it to Gov. Gavin Newsom by midnight Thursday, the June 15 deadline.

The timing is dictated by another constitutional requirement that a bill be “in print” at least 72 hours before passage.

Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon and Senate President Pro Tem Tony Atkins described it in a

joint statement as “a two-party agreement on a balanced and responsible budget,” adding, “we are continuing to negotiate and make progress on three-party final budget.”

There were significant di erences between the two houses earlier in the budget cycle that apparently have been reconciled. The legislative leaders didn’t o er any details, but they really don’t matter because passing a bill, any bill, is just a drill to meet the June 15 deadline.

“As in years past,” the two leaders said, “once an agreement is reached between the Legislature and governor, amendments to this budget bill will be introduced to reflect such an agreement.”

That will be the real budget, whenever it occurs.

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

I return to the words in our Constitution’s preamble that say it is about securing “the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity.”

What does this mean?

It is very nice talking about wokeness and the border and debt. But it has been too long since the American people were drawn into a discussion about the nation’s principles and ideals and what these mean for our lives and future.

Star Parker is president of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education and host of the weekly television show “Cure America with Star Parker.”

Announcements

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

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) 417-7138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net

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 916-768-4452 for more information. Gold Country Cribbers play Wednesday afternoon 4:30 pm at Steve’s Pizza, 3941 Park Dr., El Dorado Hills, CA. 95762

Ready for real change?

CELEBRATE RECOVERY meets Wednesday nights at 6:30 pm at Bayside Church of Placerville, 4602 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. We are a Christ centered recovery program to find healing and recovery from our hurts, habits, and hangups. Email elebratercovery@ baysideplacerville. com. Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/ CRBaysidePlacerville.

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

Day Hiker

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 fourpart 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. Join fun-loving women Wednesdays 8am-10am at El Dorado High School. Lessons, social events, only $50/year. Call Cindy 805-540-8654.

MARSHALL HOSPITAL

AUXILIARY is looking for volunteers. It is a rewarding opportunity to do something for the community. We will be holding interviews on Tuesday, May 9, 2023. Please contact Linda Grimoldi at 530-6202240 or call the Auxiliary Office at 530-626-2643.

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)6216304 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 except the first Monday of each month. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a nonpartisan organization

Parker Continued from A4

Wheelbarrow races Continued from A1

the Men’s Championship, saw a familiar face on the podium.

Zachary Schnetz claimed backto-back victories after winning 2022’s event “It was super fun. I’m kinda glad its over, I was super nervous,” Schnetz said. “I really look forward to this year round.”

Schnetz fell behind Hudson Eymann in the early obstacles before Eymann was involved in the biggest crash of the evening.

Eymann was pushing his wheelbarrow across a log bridge when his wheel got caught in a divot and sent him and his wheelbarrow flying.

“I was feeling very confident. This was my first time participating and I was racing against the guy who gave me all the tips, (Zachary) Schnetz,” Eymann said with a laugh about his race. “I was hoping I could land (the crash) — definitely did not.”

Eymann completed the race and came in fourth but was disqualified due to losing much of his ore in the crash.

Confusion came in the Old Timers’ Race. Reigning division champ Brian Veerkamp, also a record holder in the Men’s Championship, took an aggressive lead on the field, which he held before reaching an obstacle in the middle of the course.

Veerkamp skipped the obstacle, further extending his lead. Steven Costa, in second place, continued on through the obstacle and remaining racers followed Costa’s lead.

Race officials and Veerkamp conferred after the skipped obstacle was brought to their attention. Veerkamp told the Mountain Democrat he understood that the senior race course did not include the obstacle as it had been left out in previous years.

But it seems pre-race instructions may have been as clear as the mud in Deep Creek.

“The pre-race leader had to be questioned on a few occasions and clarity for all was difficult due to four different race group participants walking at same time (and) discussing the layout

for the four groups,” Veerkamp explained.

Placerville Kiwanis, which was responsible for putting on the event, issued a statement Monday admitting fault for the confusion of the specific obstacle. It reads, in part, “There was miscommunication to some of the racers. That was an error by one of its members, which Kiwanis regrets.”

“Brian was prepared to disqualify himself even though he followed the designated course,” noted race committee member Paul Zappettini. “(Costa) told us that if he didn’t make weight, it would be unfair to disqualify Brian. (Costa) failed to make weight. So, with that understanding, there was no point to changing the results. That is what actually happened. Placerville Kiwanis apologizes for the issue.”

After much deliberation, Veerkamp was named the winner and awarded the $200 prize. When Veerkamp raced in the Men’s Championship race later in the evening he completed the obstacle. One of the closest finishes occurred in the second biggest field, Teen Boys. Nathan Schnetz flew out of the gate and held a comfortable lead through the first few obstacles, opting to carry his wheelbarrow over obstacles. Despite this, John Hoel slowly made up ground before overtaking Schnetz in Deep Creek. Brock Buak also managed to catch up with Schnetz with a diving effort across the finish line.

The smallest field of the night — Teen Girls — saw a pair of Rothmans take home the two cash prizes. Sisters Bethany and Hannah won the $100 first-placeand $50 second-place prizes, respectively.

Violet Forma took home the $100 prize for the Youth Girls division for a second straight year and Sawyer Anderson claimed the prize in the Youth Boys division

2024 will see the 80th anniversary of the wheelbarrow races as champions Veerkamp, Schnetz and Thornton all look to defend their titles.

Zachary Schnetz picks up his wheelbarrow to carry it over an bumby obstacle.

Schnetz was a repeat Men’s Championship winner.

Mountain Democrat photos by Isaac Streeter

Hannah Alexander is awarded Most Inspirational wheelbarrow racer. Alexander had the whole crowd cheering for her after losing her shoes in Deep Creek during the Women’s Championship.

Brock Buak dives to pass Nathan Schnetz at the finish line in the Teen Boys race. n see more photos online @ mtdemocrat.com

Mountain

Pleasant Valley Grange No. 675 can claim bragging rights for the next year, as Emily Ellsworth’s pig was named Supreme Champion Market Swine.

Camden Scott sold his Champion Grange Pen of 2 Chickens for $1,500.

Jr. Livestock

Continued from A1

pound; at a weight of 265 pounds, the total ticket rose to more than $13,000.

“We would love to thank everyone that has helped him,” Trisha Gordon, Jace’s mother, stated.

Gordon’s hog was not the only one that raised money for medical bills; Dylan Brewster had previously announced his intent to donate all the money from the sale of his pig to the families of the young students struck while crossing the street in Pollock Pines in late May.

“My family gives back to the community a lot and I haven’t had a chance to do that,” Brewster said before the sale. “When I heard what had happened to those kids it was devastating. I knew that this was a way that I could help.”

The community responded to Brewster’s generous intentions with generosity of their own; by the time bidding came to a close his hog was one of the highest sellers of the morning, reaching a total of more than $58,800, according to Dylan’s mother Loni Veerkamp Brewster. One of the victims of the crosswalk crash was there in the crowd to witness the community’s show of love and support for him and his classmates, according to Loni.

Other exhibitors made their final appearances at the auction, as they will soon be college bound. Bryan Bloxsom showed for the

Union Mine FFA member Bryan Bloxsom made his final Junior Livestock Auction appearance Saturday, selling his Reserve Supreme Champion Market Steer for $12 a pound. Bloxsom will be going to Montana State University to study ranching.

last time with Union Mine FFA before he heads off to Montana State University to study ranching; his steer took the title of Reserve Supreme Champion and sold for $12 per pound; with the beefy bovine weighing in at 1242 lbs., Bloxsom raked in just over $14,900 — not a bad way to pay for some college supplies.

Even potential buyers who found themselves outbid left the fair knowing they’d done their part.

“I didn’t win this year, but it’s OK,” one buyer said as he left the auction. “Getting some meat is only one small part of this. What the auction is really about is rewarding these kids for working so hard and hopefully helping the community too.”

2023 SUPREME CHAMPiONS

Shane Heywood, Union Mine FFA —

Supreme Champion Market Steer

Payton Steitz, Union Mine FFA —

Supreme Champion Market Lamb

Emily Ellsworth, Pleasant Valley Grange No. 675 —

Supreme Champion Market Swine

Olivia Rowlett, Ponderosa FFA —

Supreme Champion Market Goat

Gabriel Johnson, Ponderosa FFA —

Supreme Champion Market Turkey

Melanie Hellam, Latrobe Outlanders 4-H —

Supreme Champion Pen of 3 Rabbits

ARIES (March 21-April 19). You may not feel motivated to conform to an expectation, but it doesn’t mean you lack motivation in general. Your own projects are taking priority, and that’s how it should be right now. It only feels strange because it’s new.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Like a kid in a candy shop, you’ll be riveted by life’s enticements and overwhelmed by the sweet excitement. Like an adult in a candy shop, you’ve a full awareness that none of this is going to actually feed you.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Gossip will make you uncomfortable. You’ve no desire to bond over a shared frustration and judgment of another person. You are loyal and will speak of those not present the same way you would if they were in the room. Make a mild excuse and leave.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). The reason you’re mastering a skill so quickly is because you are genuinely interested in it. It’s more than a task; it’s a mission. People pay tuitions to learn this. You’re self-educated and you picked the right school.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Chitchat can make people feel comfortable, or have the opposite effect. It can signal confidence or insecurity. If you’re not sure how much to say, today it will be better to err on the side of mystery.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You know you’re loved, not just because of the hard evidence of people showing up for you, listening to you or celebrating you. You know from the feeling. You will succeed in giving this sense of security and belonging to others.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Some say taboos about money-talk are perpetuated by the wealthy who don’t want to share their secrets. Luckily, today you’ll find plenty of resources for open communication and getting your financial needs and questions addressed.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). You don’t know how you’ll make it happen, but you won’t rest until you’ve tackled your to-do list. It’s all about the order. Whether building an empire or grocery shopping, the research and planning phase sets the stage for success.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). You treat others well and are the kind of person they can rely on. You leave them looking forward to the next time your paths cross. For this reason, when your name comes up, the glowing reviews kick off.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Doing it yourself saves you money, gives you knowledge and puts you in a position of self-reliance. Your self-confidence runs true and deep because it’s not based on an outside rating but on what you can do and have done.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Even as you strive to improve, your best connections are the ones who celebrate you as you are. You’re more than your accomplishments and the mark you make on the world. You’re the artist, not the painting.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). It’s one of the oldest tricks in the book: You smile when you’re not happy and happiness starts to happen. This is because a smile is a signal, not just for the rest of the world but for the wearer.

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin n

Democrat photos by Odin Rasco

In the KNOW

June 21

Support CASA El Dorado with a bowl of delicious ice cream. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, 1011 E Bidwell St. in Folsom, will donate 20% of total purchases made, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., to the organization helping children in El Dorado County.

Are you nervous about the upcoming fire season? Have questions about home hardening and creating defensible space?

Do you know what to do if wildfire is headed your way? The Camino Fire Safe Council hosts a community meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado El Dorado Unit headquarters, 2840 Mt. Danaher Road in Camino.

Capital Stage in Sacramento presents “Predictor,” June 21 through July 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 995-5464 or visit capstage.org.

June 22

Arts and Culture El Dorado honors El Dorado County Superintendent of schools Dr. Ed Manansala with the 2023 Normadene Carpenter Award at 6 p.m. at David Girard Vineyards in Placerville. For tickets and more information call (530) 295-3496 or visit artsandcultureeldorado. org. El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts Live on the Boulevard free concerts every Thursday with North Forty performing this week.

Fergason named 2023 el Dorado Rose

Noel Stack

Managing editor

AHarley-riding veteran has won the title of 2023 El Dorado Rose.

Jane Fergason received the trophy and sash at the pageant Thursday evening at the El Dorado County Fair. Over the next year she and members of her Rose Court will serve as ambassadors for the community, making appearances at public events and social gatherings while dressed in period clothes.

Fergason, sponsored by American Legion Post 119 and American Legion Auxiliary Post 119, was an active-duty registered nurse with the U.S. Navy during the Granada/ Lebanon era and went on to work and volunteer in the healthcare field during her civilian years.

She and her husband moved to El Dorado County in 1997, settling on acreage in the Diamond Springs area. Combining her love of motorcycles with her desire to give back, Fergason became active in organizations hosting charitable events: Folsom HOG, Sierra Riders and the Placerville American Legion and its Riders chapter.

Ready for spectacular fun?

This is the Cameron Park Community Services District’s largest event and festivities will begin at 4:30 p.m.

This year attendees will have a variety of delicious food trucks to choose from, including Holy Grail BBQ, Kiki’s and Authentic Street Taco. Live bands will perform throughout the afternoon and evening and the kids’ zone returns with inflatable fun. Adults can quench their thirst in the beer garden hosted by Moonraker Brewing. The night wouldn’t be complete without a spectacular fireworks show, which lights up the lake when the n See spectaculaR page B6

Mountain Democrat photo by Noel Stack 2023 El Dorado Rose Jane K. Fergason, standing, is all smiles after winning the title at the El Dorado County Fair pageant June 15. A crowd filled nearly all the seats inside Imagination Theater to celebrate the three candidates. Joining Fergason as her Rose Court ladies are Coco DeCarlo, left, and Carole Perusse.

n See Rose page B5

File photo by Mitchell Weitzman

Jana Rossi Mountain Democrat correspondent

Cameron Park Lake has reopened to vehicle traffic and the timing couldn’t be better with the upcoming Summer Spectacular event June 24.

877-533-6139

A ‘Not So Secret’ Society eDH resident and shriner gives back to kids in need

Kelsey Morgado Shriners Children’s

Secret handshakes, mysterious symbols and initiation rites are all hallmarks of the Freemasons but ask longtime El Dorado Hills resident and Shriner Dave Kubel about the “mysterious world” of freemasonry and he’ll tell you it’s not so secret.

“Despite what some may say, Shriners International and Freemasons are not a secret society,” said Kubel. Kubel is a member of Ben Ali Shriners, the Shriners chapter in Sacramento. “We’re a fraternal organization dedicated to philanthropy and community service. Our highest priority is increasing access to specialty healthcare for all kids.”

Supporting children and families

“When a family first learns their child will need ongoing, specialized pediatric care the last thing they should have to think about is, ‘How in the world am I going to pay for this,’” said Kubel. In addition to being

to ensure children receive necessary,

a Shriner, Kubel serves on the Shriners

Children’s Northern California Board of Governors. The hospital on Stockton Boulevard in Sacramento was built in 1997 and has served more than 85,000 children since opening its doors. It’s the largest hospital in the Shriners

Children’s healthcare system.

Raising funds and having fun

While the Shriners mission is a serious one, its members have a lot of fun meeting their

n See ShriNerS, page B5

Courtesy photo

EDH resident Dave Kubel and fellow Shriners support the organization’s mission

quality health care.

Getty Images Oleander is toxic to animals and can cause heart problems if ingested.

Grow for it!

Protect animals from poisonous plants

Many plants we grow in our yards are toxic to dogs and cats. Some can be fatal, but many cause nonfatal — but annoying — symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and drooling. Because of dogs’ indiscriminate eating and chewing habits, they are much more commonly poisoned than cats. For lots of good information on poisonous plants see the ASCPA website, aspca.org/pet-care/poisoncontrol/plants.

Heidi Napier, DVM

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten or chewed on a poison plant, first call your vet to find out if it is OK to induce vomiting. If it is OK, and if your pet is conscious and alert, follow these directions:

1. Give about one tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide per 15 pounds of body weight. For the average cat or toy breed dog, use one half to 1 tablespoon. For medium sized dogs such as a springer spaniel, the dosage is 4 tablespoons. Large dogs, like Labs or German shepherds, can be dosed with 5 to 6 tablespoons.

2. Repeat in 10 minutes if the pet does not vomit.

3. Identify the plant, or take it to your vet, if possible.

4. If the pet ate a pesticide, bring the container to the vet.

5. Take the pet to your vet ASAP. There are very good drugs that reliably cause vomiting in 5 minutes. The following plants can present serious poisoning issues:

Sago and cardboard palms: Cycads and zamias cause liver failure in dogs; they are extremely potent and all parts of the plant are poisonous. Once a dog shows signs of liver failure, the mortality rate is 30%. For some reason many dogs like to chew on sago palms.

• Lilies of all kinds: Crocus, Asiatic, Oriental, tiger, Easter and hyacinth, tulips, aloe and daylilies. However, agapanthus (Lily of the Nile) is not poisonous. Lilies are extremely potent and cause acute kidney failure in cats; few cats survive. Lilies will cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs, but not kidney damage.

• Castor beans and plants contain ricin, the deadliest plant toxin known to man. The dried beans are sometimes used as decorative beads in jewelry and small children are especially at risk.

• Buckeye pollen is toxic to bees and the plant and nuts are toxic to dogs and livestock. They cause vomiting and diarrhea and affect the central nervous system.

• Oleander is very poisonous; it causes heart problems and is mostly a problem for livestock.

• Foxglove is the original source of digitalis, a drug used in tiny amounts for heart failure, but it is very toxic if

overdosed.

• Lily of the Valley, Convalaria, is also cardio-toxic.

• Rhubarb leaves and portulaca can cause kidney damage.

• Nicotiana contains nicotine; it can cause vomiting and affects the central nervous system.

• Vinca rosea also causes vomiting and diarrhea and affects the central nervous system.

• Sweet pea, Lathyrus latifolius, can be a problem for livestock.

• Azaleas and rhododendrons are toxic and usually only a problem for sheep and goats.

• Daffodils, especially the bulbs, are toxic.

• Rudbeckia is toxic to livestock in large amounts, but it tastes bad.

• Yellow star thistle is toxic to horses if they eat 50% to 200% of their body weight in two to three months. It is only a problem if there is insufficient healthy forage available.

• Cocoa mulch may be attractive to dogs and is toxic; it causes vomiting and diarrhea, lethargy, fast heart rate and tremors. Some are labeled as safe for pets and have toxins removed.

• Grapes may be toxic to dogs, cats and ferrets, but many pets that eat grapes are not affected. Those that are affected show signs of kidney damage a few hours after ingestion.

Most plants that are toxic to livestock are not consumed in large enough quantities to cause poisoning unless the animal doesn’t have enough safe forage. There are many plants not listed here that are considered mildly toxic, meaning they may cause mouth and stomach irritation, (drooling, vomiting and diarrhea), but are not generally fatal. Nevertheless, no list can cover all potentially poisonous plants. If you suspect your pet has consumed a poisonous plant or is sick, call your vet to be safe.

Master Gardener classes are offered monthly throughout the county. Find the class schedule at mgeldorado. ucanr.edu/Public_Education_

Classes/?calendar=yes&g=56698 and recorded classes on many gardening topics at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/ Public_Education/Classes.

Sherwood Demonstration Garden is open every Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon. Master Gardeners will offer tours, answer questions or guests can just enjoy the garden. Check the website for further information about the Sherwood Demonstration Garden at ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_Master_ Gardeners/Demonstration_Garden.

Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website, mgeldorado.ucanr.edu, or leave a message on the office telephone at (530) 621-5512. To sign up for notices and newsletters visit ucanr. edu/master_gardener_e-news. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

EDH Chamber helps grads

News release

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce awarded five scholarships of $1,000 each to local graduates who plan to continue their education at a university, college or technical school.

2023 scholarship recipients are Oak Ridge High School grads Alena Tadayeski, Adele Trapp, Haley Wong, Summer Dixon and Gianna Jean.

“The chamber and our scholarship sponsors are honored to offer scholarships to our graduating seniors. Our goal is that after graduation they will consider moving back to El Dorado Hills to live, and hopefully fortunate enough to work here as well” said Debbie Manning, El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce president & CEO.

This year the chamber received 10 impressive applications from highly qualified students. Four scholarships

are funded by Pacific Interstate Insurance Brokers and El Dorado County Auditor-Controller Joe Harn.

The other scholarship was funded from the proceeds from the Chamber’s Silent Auction at the Installation & Business Awards. The chamber looks forward to growing this sponsorship program in the future.

The scholarships are judged by a committee of five business leaders from the community. It was a difficult task, as each of the applicants were most deserving. The point system is based on the following criteria: 50% community service, 15% work experience, 15% extracurricular activities, 10% scholastic GPA and 10% financial need.

Donations to the El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund for the Class of 2024 can be made to chamber@ eldoradohillschamber.org.

County Adult Day Program accepting new members

Margaret Williams

EDC Health and Human Services

The El Dorado County Adult Day Program has several program openings and is accepting new members. The Adult Day Program (also known as “The Club”) provides care and activities for adults who need supervision during daytime hours to keep them safe and enjoying their day. The program has locations in both

Placerville and El Dorado Hills.

“The Adult Day Program is extremely important for both our members and family caregivers,” said Yvette Wencke, El Dorado County Senior Services manager. “Our members not only benefit from a safe and structured day, but also are actively engaged in group and social activities that are vital for the health of any older adult. The program also gives family caregivers a respite or the

ability to go to work knowing their loved one is being well cared for.”

Most program participants are older adults who are isolated or alone or who need a little extra help due to declining health, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia, according to Wencke.

“The Club provides individual attention for members, a healthy lunch and snacks, and a multitude of activities, including group exercise, crafts, modified sports, speakers and live music. Supportive services, education and referrals are also available for members and their

families,” she explained.

The Club is a program of the El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency and has been in operation since August 1989. In addition to new members, the program is also accepting applications from those interested in serving as volunteers.

For information about The Club in Placerville call Nancy Wilson at (530) 621-6180. To reach The Club in El Dorado Hills call Jillien Smith at (916) 358-3560. Additional information about the program can also be found online at edcgov.us/ads.

Community Action Council looking for more volunteers

News release

The El Dorado County Community Action Council has several member vacancies, including those within the Low-Income and Community Sector Membership categories. The Community Action Council is seeking to fill the member vacancies with individuals who can represent the interests and concerns of people and families with low incomes living in El Dorado County, with a special focus on housing, nutrition and low-income program needs. Priority will be given to individuals or representatives of community organizations who demonstrate a commitment to advancing the purposes and activities of the council. The deadline to submit a member application for the Community Action Council is July 14.

The Community Action Council acts in an advisory capacity to the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors and the El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency about the needs of the community relating to human services for low-income residents of the county. The council provides for the collaboration of local government, private organizations and residents serving the most vulnerable populations.

Representatives of community agencies that serve El Dorado County’s low-income residents are encouraged to apply. These are volunteer, unpaid positions. Meetings are held in Placerville.

To receive a member application for the Community Action Council contact Star Walker at (530) 621-6255 or send an email to star.walker@ edcgov.us.

Day hiker

Stevens Trail South (Iowa Hill side)

Stevens Trail from Iowa Hill is a history lesson and an adventure.

Like the more popular Stevens Trail North out of Colfax, both share a rugged trail along the canyon wall with views of the North Fork of the American River. Both host waterfalls and both end at the river. Unlike the Colfax side, the Iowa Hill side takes you to the historical mining town of Iowa Hill.

The Iowa Hill “store” offers a trail guide dog, whether you want one or not. The historical monument tells the story of the toll bridge run by Stevens that was the center of the 10,000 residents, mostly miners, who lived there during the Gold Rush.

The trail is 4.5 miles, no matter what the sign says. It features the shady side of the canyon, making for comfortable summer hiking; the trailhead is on the side of the “store.” Head out on the path and once off the

goals.

From car shows to parades, Shriners look for ways to engage the community, both to increase awareness of the specialty health care that Shriners Children’s provides and to raise money to support that care.

Shriners often participate in local parades, like the Historic Folsom Downtown Parade or El Dorado Hills Santa Parade hosted by the El Dorado Hills Fire Department. They’ll tell you they love watching families smile as they drive their go karts, ride in historical fire trucks or dress up as keystone cops or clowns.

More than hats

“When we tell people we’re Shriners, they’ll often say, ‘Oh, you mean those guys with the red hats?’” said Don Kilmer, potentate, similar to position of president, of Ben Ali Shriners. “And we say, ‘Yes, that’s us!’”

The red hat with the black tassel is one of the fraternity’s most distinctive symbols. Derived from the city of Fez, Morocco, the hat was chosen as the official headgear of the fraternity to complement the organization’s pomp and pageantry, theme, ceremonies and events.

Each fez is personalized for the wearer. Information on the fez includes the chapter he belongs to and any positions he holds, and memberships of clubs or units. It is worn at all official Shriners events.

“When you wear a fez, it’s a reminder of the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief and truth. We wear these with pride,” said Kilmer.

Acting on principles

Shriners was a new fraternal order when, in the late 1910s, a polio epidemic swept across the United States and it was apparent that many children were going without appropriate care. The Shriners committed themselves to making care more accessible to all kids.

private property you are on public land. One section is maintained by BLM. The rest of this trail is overgrown with brush. Downed trees litter the trail. I found soft spots on the path in spring where I expected the trail to fall into the canyon at any time. Parts of this narrow and overgrown trail have fallen into the canyon making a hiker climb the canyon wall to pick up the trail on the other side. Slick mud and slippery rocks are also hazardous and there’s plenty of poison oak. This trail is moderate to difficult depending on your skill level. It isn’t the elevation change (2,297 feet); the poor maintenance and areas

On May 12, 1922, thousands gathered to witness the placing of the cornerstone of the first Shriners Children’s hospital in Shreveport, La.

Over the past century Shriners Hospitals for Children, commonly referred to as Shriners Children’s, has become one of the largest pediatric sub-specialty healthcare systems in the world with locations in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The health system includes hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations.

The Ben Ali Shriners dedicate their time and financial support to the Shriners Children’s Northern California hospital.

“We are very proud of the medical team at Shriners Children’s Northern California,” said Kubel. “The team of physicians and surgeons are recognized worldwide as leaders in their field and the medical teams are renowned for providing patient-centered care.”

Shriners Children’s Northern California’s Neil Reitman Pediatric Burn Institute is one of the world’s most advanced burn research and treatment centers.

In addition to the advanced burn care provided to patients, the institute participates in groundbreaking research ranging from molecular and

requiring rock hopping and free climbing make it challenging. Hike at your own risk.

If you are still reading, let me tell you about the two waterfalls at the half way point.

Tucked into a shady corner, the moss, fern and wildflowers are a paradise. Frankly, you could stop here, enjoy a picnic lunch, listen to the water flow, take a hundred pictures of the

cell biology to clinical research and prevention identification. It also offers expansive educational opportunities for medical students, residents and fellows. Medical professionals at the Neil Reitman Pediatric Burn Institute advocate for continued advancements in burn care, ongoing support for burn survivors and improved burn prevention legislation.

In addition to burn care, Shriners Children’s Northern California is recognized for making industry advances in orthopedics, rehabilitation and plastic surgery. Its medical professionals are well known for their care for kids with hand and limb differences, colorectal and gastrointestinal conditions, spina bifida and cerebral palsy.

Making a difference

While Shriners are committed to one another as fraternal brothers, they also are committed to the mission of improving health for all kids.

“It’s important to be part of something larger than yourself,” said Kubel. “We’re here to make a difference in this world and there are thousands of families in this region that count on us.”

For details visit shrinersinternational. org/en or shrinerschildrens.org/sacramento.

flora and fauna and call it your half way point.

If you continue, on a nice early spring morning, another taller waterfall greets you not far beyond the first. Still further along is a bench overlooking the river far below. Wildflowers in spring and succulents growing on the rock face are consistent companions along the way. The final stretch is

finding a way down to the water’s edge.

Granite boulders are much more treacherous than the sand beach on the other side. But the view of the river is just as amazing. I would never take new hikers or children on this trail.

Only those who have to say they have been there need to hike Stevens Trail South.

Mary West is author of the book series Day Hiker – Gold Country Trail Guide I, II and III (second edition available on

The new Rose expressed her thanks to her family, friends and the pageant committee after receiving the title. She will be joined by new court members Coco DeCarlo and Carole Perusse.

Prior to the naming of the 2023 Rose, the crowd inside Imagination Theater on the El Dorado County

Amazon). The books are a collection of the 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. You can follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

Fairgrounds was treated to musical numbers performed by Perusse, who got several in the audience out of their seats and dancing along, and the Gold Rush Chorus. 2022 El Dorado Rose Sherry Phillipsen shared highlights from her year as El Dorado County’s ambassador and other past Roses were noted and applauded.

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Mary West Outdoor columnist

Rose Continued from B1

Photo by Mary West

Though tricky to get to, the waterfalls and river-side scenery along Stevens Trail South are beautiful.

and children alike on what makes these animals tick. Telling their stories and doing all we can to make a difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them. VOLUNTEER