Mountain Democrat, Friday, August 18, 2023

training time

edH fire’s new facility brings hands-on experience

Noel Stack

Managing editor

At the corner of Bertelsen Parkway and Chief Fry Boulevard

two beautiful houses sit on a hillside. But these homes aren’t part of the latest El Dorado Hills housing development; they’re designs to be breached, vented and filled with smoke and water.

After years of planning the El Dorado Hills Fire Department Training Center is ready to help firefighters get real–world experience in a variety of scenarios — whether it’s searching for a fire victim in a back closet or rescuing a fellow firefighter who has fallen while venting an attic. The department’s first major exercise planned Aug. 11 had firefighters teaming up with PG&E crews to go through

n See Training page A6

In the simulation a contractor failed to call 811 and a gas line was ruptured, leading to a leak and fire, above. Two burn homes stand ready at the El Dorado Hills Fire Department Training Center in the EDH Business Park, right photo.

Man who shot girlfriend gets 56 years

Odin Rasco

Staff writer

A 29-year-old man who pleaded guilty to the murder of Placerville resident Monique Benavidez faced sentencing from Judge Mark Ralphs in El Dorado County Superior Court Monday. Brandon Heckley was sentenced to 56 years to life in prison, with a lifetime on parole if he is to ever be released from custody. The sentence was determined in accordance with a plea agreement. Ralphs shared that, though he felt the plea agreement was in the interest of serving justice, the term of Heckley’s sentence was less than he would have otherwise given.

“This is a tragic, tragic case,” Ralphs said after sentencing. “As it has already been said, no parent should have to bury their own child. And no child should have to see their parent a victim of three gunshot wounds dying and bleeding out on the floor. Mr. Heckley, if I could give you more time, I would.”

Chase ends at El Dorado Road

Krysten Kellum

Editor

A Sacramento man suspected of driving a stolen truck on Highway 50 led California Highway Patrol officers in a 40-mile pursuit Saturday afternoon from Highway 99 up to El Dorado Road, where the vehicle was stopped with the use of a spike strip. CHP officials report that 41-year-old Dawn Dewayne Suggs was subsequently booked into the El Dorado County Jail on felony charges of vehicle theft and evading law enforcement officers with wanton disregard for safety. Inmate records show as of press time Suggs is held in jail custody in lieu of $165,000 bail.

The pursuit began at about 12:55 p.m. just east of the Highway 99 and Highway 50 interchange in Sacramento, where a CHP officer spotted a white 2022 Ford F-150 that had been reported stolen, CHP officials told the Mountain Democrat. CHP officers switched on their patrol car lights and sirens, attempting to initiate an enforcement stop but Suggs failed to yield.

Suggs headed east with law enforcement on his tail. A spike strip deployed by a CHP officer assigned to the Placerville area deflated the Ford’s tires and the vehicle came to a stop west of El Dorado Road in the highway’s center median, according to CHP officials.

Suggs was taken into custody by officers without incident.

Photo courtesy of El Dorado Hills Fire Department

THIS IS JUST A TRAINING — The El Dorado Hills Fire Department and Pacific Gas and Electric Company joined forces to demonstrate response to a damaged gas line. This collaborative exercise also included participation of personnel from the Folsom and Cameron Park fire departments, El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office and the California State Firefighters’ Association.

Photo courtesy of El Dorado Hills Fire Department

Mountain Democrat photo by Noel Stack

n See Heckley page A8

OBITUARIES

Richard Adam Orsi

Richard Adam Orsi, fondly known to many as “ORSI,” peacefully departed from this world in the comfort of his own home, surrounded by the warmth of his family, and with his devoted wife of nearly 50 years, by his side. He embraced his final journey on July 21st, 2023.

ORSI’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and the power of lasting connections. His unwavering commitment to his wife over half a century demonstrated the beauty of a love that transcends time. His departure leaves behind a legacy of unity and togetherness that will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Throughout his life, ORSI’s presence radiated with kindness, compassion, and a genuine interest in the lives of others. His friendly nature and genuine smile created an aura of comfort and belonging that drew people towards him. Whether it was through simple conversations or acts of kindness, he touched the hearts of countless individuals.

While ORSI’s physical presence is no longer with us, his memory lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he created. He leaves behind a void that can never be filled, but also a legacy that will continue to bring comfort and strength to those who loved him.

In his departure, we celebrate the life of Richard Adam Orsi, a cherished husband, a loving father, and a dear friend, a true source of inspiration.

Orsi is survived by his wife, Toni Ann Orsi, his son Richard “Rick” Howsmon, his sister Carol Orsi Lessar, and his cherished nieces, Lori and Diana.

Frances Fae Gordon

April 3, 1925 – August 5, 2023

Frances Fae Gordon was born in Kansas City, MO, on April 3, 1925.

Frances will be remembered for her love of family, big heart, generosity, and insightful nature.

After marrying her childhood sweetheart, Eddie L. Gordon, they relocated from Joplin, MO, to San Francisco, CA and eventually to San Mateo where their four children were raised. After the children were o to college, she began her own love of education by achieving her degree in accounting from San Francisco State University. She assumed the position of O ce Manager/Accountant for her husband’s commercial construction business. In 1985, Frances and Eddie retired to Cameron Park, CA where Frances excelled at being an avid Bridge player. Volunteering for seven years with CASA, she was an active advocate for foster children. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and friend. She passed away on August 5, 2023, at her Folsom home. She is predeceased by her husband Eddie Gordon, her parents Florence Wadleigh and Stein Moore, and her sister Jeri Yeager. She leaves her four children: Glenna Lombardi, Janice Nielsen (Niel), Karen Gordon, and Chris Gordon (Connie), eight grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Friends are invited to attend her memorial service, being held in Cameron Park at Green Valley Mortuary and Cemetery at the intersection of Green Valley and Bass Lake roads at 11:30 am. on Saturday, August 26. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to your favorite charity.

TheGold Mine

Carolyn Louella Shivley

Aug. 5, 1934 – Aug. 11, 2023

Carolyn Louella Shivley, of Shingle Springs, California passed away peacefully in her home, of natural causes, in the early morning hours of August 11, 2023, she was 89.

Carolyn was born on August 5, 1934, in San Mateo, California. She was the second child and only daughter of the late Dorothy Charlotte and George Raymond Kendrick. She married her beloved husband James William Shivley, on April 13, 1955, living in over 12 homes in the state of California before finally settling in Shingle Springs in 1976. Carolyn is survived by her children Michael Shivley, Debra Shivley, Diana Shivley, Kelly Bryan and son-in-law Steve Bryan. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Becky Liddell, Heather Bluebird, Amber Pederson, and Tayler Akins as well as six great-grandchildren.

Carolyn was predeceased by her loving husband in 2018 and her brother William Raymond Kendrick in 1994.

Carolyn was an avid lover of animals receiving great joy from her many dogs and horses over the years. She raced harness horses, loved trail riding, dog trials and being a volunteer with Lend a Heart. Carolyn enjoyed travelling and would always meet new people o the beaten path wherever she went. Carolyn had an artist’s heart. You would always find her being creative whether with a camera, watercolors or writing stories.

Graveside services will be held on Friday August 25, 2023 at 10am at Green Valley Mortuary & Cemetery in Rescue, California. The family asks that people make donations to Shriners Hospital For Children Northern California, in lieu of sending flowers.

Norman Malcolm

Fowler

March 6, 1944 - June 25, 2023

Our beloved Norm passed away on June 25, 2023 at his home in West Sacramento at age 79 after a brief illness. He was a remarkable man, a gentle and easy going soul who left us with treasured memories.

Norm was born in Oakland, California on March 6, 1944 to Malcolm and Helen Fowler. He enjoyed an active and adventurous childhood, learning from his father and grandfather how to build things, fix things and thrive in the great outdoors. At an early age he developed a love for tinkering with go carts, rafts, pianos, TVs, bikes and cars.

He began learning his trade at Dale Knapper’s Texaco in West Sacramento, and bought his first Texaco station at age 18 at 16th and P in Sacramento. He became an expert mechanic and could repair just about anything on any vehicle. He was Sales and Service Manager at Swift Dodge and Swift Auto World for several years. He owned Ponderosa Lube and Tune in Cameron Park, making lifelong friends with colleagues and customers. Norm was legendary in his customer service and professional excellence, with several buddies still missing his encouragement, advice and mentoring.

Norm lived his life as a positive thinker, waking up happy every morning, intent on filling his days with activity and purpose. He saw the good in people and situations, and enjoyed a sense of curiosity and interest in the world. He lived by old fashioned values, being a man of his word, a hard worker, and treasuring dear friendships. He often whistled while he worked, and his calm even tempered disposition and sense of humor were an inspiration to people around him. He enjoyed all sorts of things in life, such as old westerns, backyard barbecuing, playing the harmonica, ’50s music, cars and road trips. He was fascinated by U.S. history, and liked to explore presidential libraries, civil war sites and crossing the country on backroads in his motorhome. He had an active and creative imagination, always learning and challenging himself to understand how things work and to figure things out.

Norm was predeceased by his wife Linda, daughter Lisa, son Kenny and sister Marvine. He is survived by sons Rick, Doug and John, 12 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, sister Loni, brothers Charlie and Bobby, several nieces and nephews, and many dear old friends and good buddies. Norm lived a rich and happy life in his later years with his Sweetie, Nikki, and will be remembered fondly by those of us lucky to have crossed his path.

A heartfelt thanks to Donald Gutman, M.D. for your compassionate care and warm friendship with Norm throughout his adult years. You were right there with him through the ups and downs, and you added great pleasure and comfort to his life.

Edward John Alves

April 5, 1940 – Aug. 8, 2023

Edward John Alves, known by most as “Ed,” died in Placerville on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at 83 years old. He was born in Redding, Calif. in 1940 as the only child of Irene L. Mello and Frank L. Alves. He was a 1958 graduate of San Juan High School in Citrus Heights, Calif. Edward enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October of 1958 and served for four years until 1962. During his tenure in the Navy he worked on the U.S.S. Stoddard (DD566) in the Western Pacific, the U.S.S. Corporal (SS346) in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, and the U.S.S. Razorback (SS394) along the Pacific coast.

In 1963, he married Janet J. Alves and they lived in Citrus Heights for 35 years where Ed worked as welder until he retired from the Operating Engineers (Local 3). Following retirement, he and Janet moved to Randall Tract where they spent 20 years before relocating to their current home in Diamond Springs, Calif. for the last five years.

Ed is survived by his wife, Janet, their son, Thomas Scot Alves of Camino, and their daughter Michelle L. Alves-Churilo, of Granite Bay, as well as nine grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and his two sons, William F. Alves and Edward J. Alves.

A Celebration of Life will take place at the VFW Hall in Folsom, Calif. on Sunday, August 27th from 4-6:30 p.m.

We will have a potluck at the remembrance just the way Ed would like it.

Please bring your favorite appetizer, main dish or dessert . If you have a favorite photo/memory of Ed please bring with you for Janet to add to her memory book.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you send donations to the Gold Country Base of USSVI (in Folsom) or to a cause of your choice in his name.

CONTACT US

Richard

For

obituaries

William “Ken” Lowry

aug. 21, 1929 – June 4, 2023

William “Ken” Lowry passed on Sunday, June 4, 2023, in his own home, as he wished. Mr. Lowry was 93 years old, born August 21, 1929 in Wetumka, Oklahoma.

Raised on a 40 acre farm, where his dad plowed the fields with a single blade pulled by a mule, Ken learned to be self-sufficient and resourceful at an early age. He had farm chores; weeding the vegetable garden, milking the cow and during harvest working dawn to dusk bringing in the crops. He loved to wander through the forest with his dog Joe Dinker, hunting skunks and raccoons; (the general store paid 25 cents a pelt), gathering wild pecans (50 cents for a full gunny sack), catching fish or frogs for dinner. Saturdays, he would go into town, where 25 cents of his hard earned money covered a movie, burger, fries and a Coke! On hot summer days he might head for the swimming hole, or crack open a juicy melon pilfered from granny’s watermelon patch in the river bottom.

But young Ken had big plans. He would be a pilot. By the age of 12, he was walking five miles to wash planes at a small airfield, in exchange for the thrill of a ride.

The innocence of childhood ended at the age of 15, when Ken’s mother died of cancer. That summer he went to Illinois to work on the railroad. At 17 he left school, joined the Navy and served 4 years flying over the Pacific, as a navigator on propeller driven air transport planes. He loved every minute of it. His tour of duty ended in San Diego, and he never looked back. California was his new home. He put himself through college, working nights in a psych hospital, then as a car repo man, and later a machinist for Hughes aircraft. He applied to be a Security guard, but at 6’, couldn’t make the 150 pound weight minimum, no matter how many pancakes he ate.

He met and married a beautiful aspiring actress, Carolyn Parks, and set aside his dream of a career in aviation, as it would take him far away. He switched to education, thinking “summers off.” That, of course, never happened. Ken started teaching science to middle schoolers in Kenwood, Sonoma County. Within a few years he was promoted to Principal, then Superintendent. He borrowed against his retirement to buy a sawmill in Humboldt with his friend, Warren Welsh. For a short time, Ken was both lumber man and educator and enjoyed flying his small plane between Santa Rosa and Eureka. Then the sawmill washed down the canyon in a big storm. Ken went back to investing his energy in education, earning a Masters in Administration. The family moved to El Dorado County, where Ken was Superintendent of Mother Lode School District. Ken and Carolyn had 3 beautiful children: Rena Davonne, Krislyn Kay and Kenneth John, while also parenting Ken’s niece, Bonnie. In 1969 Ken moved to the Bay Area, working in San Anselmo, Redwood City, and Concord school districts. He returned to El Dorado County in 1977 as School Superintendent in South Lake Tahoe.

Five years on, he was recruited by Bob Edwards to run for El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools. With the help of all 12 District Superintendents, he dove into a grueling campaign, won a narrow victory, then earned easy re-election for 2 more terms. Hard working, dedicated to education and fearlessly innovative... his answer to the question, “Can we do this?” was always a definitive YES! His expectation of himself, and his staff, was that every need, every request would be met with a “Spirit of Accommodation.” Ken’s “3 R’s” for the County office of Education were Respect, Resourcefulness and Responsiveness. Vicky Barber, who succeeded Ken as County Superintendent, has written a beautiful resolution, citing some of the accomplishments of Ken’s vision to build an education center which would serve preschool through community college students in El Dorado County. The EDCOE complex in Placerville, is not just a lot of buildings. Each one houses a program to better serve kids.

Here are some highlights:

1983 - Ken’s first year in office. A retired teacher, who worked in the Mother Lode School District when Ken was Superintendent, assisted the office acquiring 28 acres of ranch land at 6767 Green Valley Rd. Bob Edwards, Ken’s friend of two decades, artfully managed this transaction and many more to follow, as the County Office of Education continued to build new facilities and programs. The main EDCOE building went up first, to house the 200 employees who had been flooded out of the old warehouse building on Placerville Drive when the roof collapsed in 1981. Over the next 20 years, this dedicated team of educators would bring to fruition the educational services to fulfill Ken’s vision.

A new Child Development Center with bright colorful classrooms full of books, educational toys, little chairs and tables, even tiny toilets in the bathrooms… was built to house Head Start, Daycare and other children’s programs, which were exceeding the capacity of the Smith Flat Center. The sign in front of the new building had been carefully covered until the

legislators’ addresses

dedication ceremony. When it was unveiled, Ken was overwhelmed to learn that the staff had named the building the “Ken Lowry Center.”

Next came a 2-story staff development building and several ancillary facilities for new programs to serve children throughout the county, including Extended Day programs at elementary schools, a Charter school for alternative education, a Home Study community school, and later, Rite of Passage and New Morning.

Ken brought additional donations of land for outdoor and environmental education programs, as well as the site where the Community Observatory was erected. In 1988, 19 acres of the donated land was sold by EDCOE to Los Rios Community College District, for one dollar. The Placerville Center, aka UBR; University Behind Raley’s, operating out of old buildings on the fairgrounds since 1966, was reborn on this land in 1992 to become the beautiful college campus now called the El Dorado Center of Folsom Lake College.

Both in education, and in private life, Ken put the kids’ needs first. He supported his children in every way. When Ken’s first marriage ended, he looked up a former employee, Eve Thomas, who, a year later would become his second wife. Weekends and summers with Dad and Eve were filled with adventure; camping, fishing, flying, boating, skiing... introducing the kids to lakes, rivers, oceans, mountains and deserts… all over the country, as well as a few in Canada and Mexico. Limited time and money mattered not! Some of the fondest memories shared by all of Ken’s children are the camping trips to Salt Springs Reservoir. Ken and Eve had one car; a VW bug. With 3 kids and the dog in the back, camping gear and food for 10 days had to fit into the old flat-bottomed fishing boat on top. Ken invented a rack to hang off the back bumper for the ice-chests. The VW was quite the sight on the highway. Children in passing cars were seen pointing in wonder and asking their parents, “What’s THAT!?” The last 30 miles up a bumpy dirt road were tricky, and then came the really fun part. Camping supplies came out of the boat to be carried over a 6 foot wall at the dam. Then the boat was lifted over, and everything was reloaded. People and dogs hiked 3 miles to the top of the lake while Ken piloted the boat to “our” camping spot, where he had built a driftwood picnic table. One year we were late getting in, the afternoon winds had come up, things were piled high in the boat... it started taking on water and Ken almost got to shore before the boat sank. Wet sleeping bags were draped across bushes to dry. The first night was a bit cold and damp... but morning brought renewed energy. The journey continued and camp was made!

One of Ken’s greatest pleasures was flying his V-Tail Bonanza. He was happy to rise before the sun to fly Eve to her consulting jobs in Nevada. He would fly back to Tahoe, work 8 - 5, then fly again to retrieve her from Lovelock, Battle Mountain, wherever... Anything to fly! Ken flew across the country many times; even across the water to Puerto Rico, but his favorite destination was Mexico. Ken, Eve and the kids made many trips with CP Rotary Club members to their Sister City Uruapan, in Michoacan, where the Rotarians supported an orphanage housing 90 children. The Uruapan Rotarians awarded Ken the Paul Harris Medal, a very high honor in Rotary, for his work on this project.

Ken Lowry was a man of many interests, supported by a wealth of energy and talent. He farmed, he fished, built furniture, laid tile, wrote a book, played piano, loved opera and classical music. He could fix anything; cars, bikes, broken pipes, cranky appliances and computers. When the well stopped sending up water, he hooked a ‘come-along’ to the old pickup, threw a cable over a big tree branch, winched the pump out of the well, and fixed it the same day.

Ken was an inventor. As a young man, watching a bartender in Santa Rosa laboriously peeling strips of lemon rinds to garnish drinks, he invented and patented a simple tool to make perfect twists, peel oranges cleanly, and create decorative cups to hold the segments. It was the 60’s. Bing Crosby and Sunkist wanted the “Kentool” to promote Sunkist oranges. Opportunity! Sadly, the contract required worldwide patents and a teacher’s salary wouldn’t cover those legal costs. Years later, the original Kentool enjoyed a limited distribution when Eve’s dad manufactured them in his machine shop.

Ken retired from schools at 65, but had the energy and outlook of a much younger man. After his retirement, Ken and Eve traveled to Paraguay to adopt their son, Tomas, the light of Ken’s life in his later years.

Ken is survived by his wife, Eve Lowry, his daughters: Rena Davonne Lowry, her children Brandon Mazzone and Brieta Carpenter, his daughter Krislyn Lowry, her children John Yates and Koorisa Layton, his son, Tomas Lowry, his grandson, KJ Lowry, his niece, Bonnie Dupy and her sons, Chris, Josh and Zach, as well as 5 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Rena Carnes and William Lowry, his son, Kenneth John Lowry, his sister, Ada Lorene Williamson, and his first wife, Carolyn Parks. Ken was well loved and fiercely loving. His spirit will be held close in our hearts forever.

Lightning strikes across forest

Mountain Democrat staff

Lightning strikes in the Eldorado National Forest over the last few days resulted in six different fires. Firefighters held ensuing flames at each site to burning less than one-tenth of an acre, according to U.S. Forest Service officials.

As of Aug. 15, three fires in the Amador, Placerville and Pacific ranger districts were controlled or contained. Firefighters were still working and monitoring two other fires in the Placerville Ranger District. A sixth blaze, also within the Placerville Ranger District, is reportedly completely out.

South shore DUI check planned

California Highway Patrol officials have announced a driving under the influence sobriety checkpoint planned for Friday, Aug. 18, in unincorporated El Dorado County in the South Lake Tahoe area.

The checkpoint will be set up at approximately 8 p.m. and will be operational shortly thereafter. The checkpoint will conclude at approximately 2 a.m. Staffing the checkpoint will be a team of CHP officers who will control traffic, evaluate drivers’ sobriety and hand out literature warning of the dangers of drinking and driving. Driver’s licenses will also be checked and appropriate enforcement action taken.

Inclement weather will cancel the checkpoint due to safety concerns and units will be assigned to roving DUI patrol.

CHP officials note the sobriety checkpoint location will be available through CHP’s Chico Communication Center two hours prior to the implementation of the checkpoint, as well as an updated press release that specifies the exact location and time of the operation.

crime log

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

July 30

8:14 a.m. Grand theft was reported on Ascension Lane in Pilot Hill.

11:57 a.m. Battery was reported on Flying C Court in Shingle Springs.

8:05 p.m. Grand theft was reported at a store on town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

10 p.m. Burglary was reported at a store on Main Street in Georgetown.

July 31

3:37 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 28-year-old man suspected of petty theft, possession of illegal drug paraphernalia and being a felon in possession of a firearm on Fowler Lane in Diamond Springs. He was released on $50,000 bail.

4:11 a.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 32-yearold man suspected of Dui on Durock road in Shingle Springs. He was released on $20,000 bail.

10:33 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 35-year-old man suspected of carrying a concealed dirk/ dagger on Highway 50 at Missouri Flat road in Placerville. He was listed in custody in lieu of $170,000 bail.

12:34 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Grassy run road in Placerville.

3:28 p.m. Battery was reported at a mobile home park on Pleasant Valley road in Diamond Springs.

7:45 p.m. Deputies booked into jail

a 54-year-old man suspected of assault with a deadly weapon on Magpie Lane in Camino. He was listed in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail.

8:12 p.m. Vandalism was reported at a gas station in Missouri Flat road in Placerville.

8:40 p.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 24-year-old man suspected of Dui on Village Green Drive in El Dorado Hills. He was released on $5,000 bail.

9:28 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 34-year-old man suspected of giving false identification to law enforcement, false vehicle registration and being a prohibited person in possession of ammunition on Highway 50 (town not specified). He was listed in custody in lieu $16,000 bail.

10:39 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 65-year-old man suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal drug paraphernalia and a post-release violation on Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. He was listed in custody.

11:10 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 40-year-old woman suspected of possession of a controlled substance and illegal

drug paraphernalia, vehicle theft and shoplifting on Bass Lake road in El Dorado Hills. She was listed in custody in lieu of $40,500 bail.

Aug. 1

12:22 a.m. California Highway Patrol officers booked into jail a 63-year-old man suspected of Dui on Highway 50 (town not specified). He was released on $5,000 bail.

5:29 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a store on town Center Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

8:59 p.m. Burglary was reported on Eight Mile road in Camino.

Aug. 2

10:29 a.m. Battery was reported on Pine ridge Drive in Grizzly Flat.

10:41 a.m. Burglary was reported at a camp on Bassi road in Lotus.

10:57 a.m. Battery was reported on tam o Shanter Drive in El Dorado Hills.

11:20 a.m. Grand theft was reported at a business on Durock road in Shingle Springs.

11:38 a.m. Deputies booked into jail a 56-year-old woman suspected of a felony parole violation on Poly Express trail in Pollock Pines. She was listed in custody.

3:16 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 27-year-old woman suspected of a felony probation violation on Missouri Flat road in Placerville. She was released on $25,000 bail.

3:25 p.m. Burglary was reported at a storage facility on Eight Mile road in Camino.

5:10 p.m. Grand theft was reported at pharmacy on Pony Express trail in Pollock Pines.

5:58 p.m. Grand theft was reported t a mobile home park on Mother Lode Drive in Placerville.

10:10 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 29-year-old man suspected of felony probation and parole violations on Missouri Flat road in Placerville. He was listed in custody.

11:45 p.m. Battery was reported on Sweetwater trail in Cool.

Aug. 3

3:13 a.m. Deputies made an arrest at Ponderosa High School in Shingle Springs after a traffic stop on Ponderosa road.

9:44 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a school on investment Boulevard in El Dorado Hills.

9:53 a.m. Burglary was reported on Clubhouse Drive in Placerville.

12:25 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Grizzly Flat road in Somerset.

9:28 p.m. Deputies booked into jail a 38-year-old man suspected of felony post release violations on Leisure Lane in Placerville. He was listed in custody.

Proposals in Legislature encourage government secrecy

Journalists from San Joaquin Valley news site

GV Wire recently posed several of what they considered to be routine factual questions to the state Department of Public Health about a mysterious laboratory discovered in the small town of Reedley.

The laboratory, in an abandoned warehouse, contained mice, biological fluids and samples of dreaded diseases including HIV, malaria and COVID-19. Federal and state investigators are delving into the situation, which surfaced when a city building code inspector noticed a hose snaking out of a wall in the warehouse.

The journalists wanted to know how the department oversees laboratories, how often they are inspected and how illegal labs get discovered. But they initially got nowhere, telling the journalists to search their website to find answers.

Department o cials refused an interview request and only after being pressed did they answer basic operational questions.

“Administration of @GavinNewsom has zero commitment to transparency,” columnist and news director Bill McEwen tweeted in frustration.

It was an example of what reporters and

Letters to the Editor

Attempts to mislead

EDITOR:

Isee Alan Candee is the latest to attack the Board of Supervisors resolution relating to the Christianity of our Founding Fathers. He mentions the Constitution and the Tripoli Treaty of 1797. I have to applaud his very carefully crafted deception of the reader. Now let me help with context.

I will start with the founding of the country and end with the Tripoli Tready of 1797. Don’t worry reader, this won’t take long. The very first founding document of this country was the Declaration of Independence which clearly stated that our rights come from our Creator, capital letters. The Constitution was not anti religious or anti Christian, its freedom of religion clause was meant to prevent the state dictating a religion like they had in England.

Now to the Tripoli Treaty of 1797 that Mr. Candee really hangs his hat on. He points out that the treaty said we were not in any sense founded on the Christian religion. Let me give you the context of why that treaty said that and why we signed it. This was only 14 years after the Revolution when we were trying to get our economy to the point we could survive and thrive as a nation. Moslem Barbary pirates were raiding our commercial shipping in the north Africa region doing damage to our economy that we could ill a ord. The anti-Christian language that Mr. Candee cites was only put there to get the Moslem pirates to stop attacking our commerce.

Nice try, Mr. Candee, but intentional deception does not always work.

GEORGE ALGER Placerville

I hope that call is not for me

EDITOR:

Iknew there would be trouble when my TracPhone couldn’t tell me the time or the day of the month. I have the year down cold. Gina at a local store said sorrowfully that they used to have a corner where people like me could be shown how to work a new phone. Most of them had gotten smarter, but she didn’t say that.

I haven’t made any calls or named the phone (why hurry?) or anything like that, but I was concerned when I opened the phone to check the time and a woman spoke to me.

I think it was in di erent languages. And she wouldn’t stop. I’m quite sure she didn’t even tell me the time. I had to go back and find Gina.

Gina was not there. Had she retired or just taken a well-earned vacation? A man we’ll call Joe, because that’s his name, asked another fellow, who may have been cutting school, about the voices. This fellow waved at my phone and the voice at the other end became silent.

Leaving was another matter. As I tried to do so, the alarm for all miscreants sounded. I turned around, ready to confess to something. As everyone knows, I am always willing to help law enforcement.

The guard said, “It’s your phone.”

ELIZABETH CAFFREY Placerville

The Not So Weekly Daley Justice for the corrupt is coming; it’s about time

Well, if it weren’t for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis certain potential miscreants would be breathing a lot easier these days. Willis has brought indictments against some of the most dangerous “innocent” characters in the modern Republican Party. I use the term “innocent” out of respect for our system of “blind justice” for all. That is, every criminal defendant is deemed to be innocent unless or until proven guilty in a court of law by a jury of his or her or their peers.

Sure, that goes for garden variety defendants whose names are known by everyone on the planet, but I’m considering those people we rarely hear about, the wizards behind the curtain, as it were, the powers behind the throne.

Willis has nailed (figuratively speaking, of course) more than a halfdozen Georgians and maybe a couple of non-Georgians alike for their

alleged role in the 2020 Georgia election case.

Alleged “fake electors” Shawn Still and Cathy Latham, for example, could be running roughshod all over the state, plotting any number of possible felonies, if Willis hadn’t shined her very bright spotlight on them.

Been wondering if the law would ever catch up with the likes of Trevian Kutti or, say, Stephen Lee? Wonder no more. The former is possibly the foremost “publicist” in Georgia at the moment and is one of the 19 indictees charged by Willis.

Lee, better known perhaps as a spiritual advisor to the defendants, if not the actual spiritual advisor, allegedly used his calling as a pastor to intimidate or otherwise influence witnesses.

In my imagination that might look something like this:

Lee: “OK witnesses, Jesus wants you to tell fibs in court about your role in the 2020 Georgia election. BTW, the cherubims and seraphims are all backing Him up on this, in

case you wondered.”

I confess, I can’t shake a mental image of hordes of angry cherubims and seraphims coming after anyone who refused to follow good shepherd Lee’s spiritual guidance. Glad it’s not me.

You can’t whitewash the influence Harrison Floyd is alleged to have swayed as the “Leader of Black Voices for Trump.” How that supposed influence was wielded specifically will be up to a future jury to determine, one assumes. Meanwhile Floyd is o the street and the nation remains safe from any related potential depredations, for the time being at least.

The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act is the legal theory DA Willis used to round up, or better yet to say collar, all these alleged felons. RICO, as it’s more familiarly known, allows prosecutors to expand cases to include a much

wider range of sco aws than just the wizards and kingpins.

Without RICO Scott Hall and Misty Hampton might have gone on to an unfettered run of equally ill-advised misadventures. As it stands, they’re currently on the hook for allegedly attempting to “breach” the election system of Georgia’s Co ee County.

Lest you fear some other top dog conspirators (alleged) were overlooked in the Georgia indictments, fear not. It practically goes without saying that Robert Cheeley, David Schafer, Ray Smith III as well as several other alleged accomplices may have dates in court next year.

All in all, you’d have to acknowledge that Willis is doing a bang-up job down there in Atlanta. I can’t wait to find out who else she’s protecting us from.

Chris Daley is a biweekly columnist for the Mountain Democrat.

I use the term “innocent” out of respect for our system of “blind justice” for all. That is, every criminal defendant is deemed to be innocent unless or until proven guilty in

law …

California Fire Foundation forms

Maui relief fund

SACRAMENTO — The California Fire Foundation has set up a disaster relief fund to support residents and firefighters impacted by the recent wildfire in Maui, Hawaii.

The California Fire Foundation is assisting Hawaii Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local 1463, and the community to assess needs and directly distribute the aid to those hardest hit and in need of support.

Whether impacted by an unprecedented wildfire, mudslide, flood, earthquake or global pandemic, the California Fire Foundation stands ready to help communities and the fire service.

“Here at the California Fire Foundation our mission is to support survivors, firefighters and communities affected by natural disasters,” said Executive Director of the California Fire Foundation Rick Martinez, who is on the ground assisting FEMA in Maui. “We have a deep appreciation for what the community is going through and we recognize the cultural significance of the area impacted by the fire. Partnering with Hawaii Fire Fighters Association, IAFF Local

n See Relief fund, page A9

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

others have increasingly experienced in recent years as they attempt to decipher what politicians and bureaucrats are doing. It’s not hyperbole to say that a wall of secrecy has been erected around the state Capitol and the surrounding complex of buildings housing state agencies.

It was beginning to happen before COVID-19 struck the state in 2020 but it worsened during the pandemic as Gov. Gavin Newsom wielded emergency powers that suspended many of the “sunshine laws” governing open meetings, open records and other forms of access. Newsom and other officials became used to operating out of public view and even after the pandemic eased, they continued the same practices.

The post-pandemic syndrome manifests itself not only in politicians and other officials seeking to avoid the give-and-take of direct questioning by reporters, as McEwen learned, but in the proliferation of meetings that are accessible only via internet.

California’s First Amendment Coalition, which attempts to preserve access to governmental records and meetings, may be fighting an uphill battle as the Legislature moves several measures that would reinforce closed door government, to wit:

• Senate Bill 544, which passed the Senate on a 26-3 vote and now pending in the Assembly, would amend the state Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act, which governs state boards and

commissions, by permanently allowing them to conduct meetings without in-person attendance, allowing only internet or telephonic access by the public.

• Senate Bill 537, also pending in the Assembly after 32-8 Senate approval, would amend the Ralph M. Brown Act, which governs local governments, to similarly allow “multijurisdictional, cross-county local agencies with appointed members” to meet via teleconference “without posting agendas at each teleconference location, identifying each teleconference location in the notice and agenda, making each teleconference location accessible to the public, and requiring at least a quorum of the eligible legislative body to participate from within the local agency’s jurisdiction…”

• Senate Bill 411, approved by the Senate on a 30-5 vote and also pending in the Assembly, would allow such teleconference meetings by “neighborhood councils” without in-person access and is specifically aimed at 99 such bodies in Los Angeles.

Ginny LaRoe, advocacy director of the First Amendment Coalition, captured the essence of these measures in her comment on SB 544: “SB 544 rewrites the Bagley-Keene Open Meetings Act to allow officials serving on any state body — think CPUC, POST, State Bar and many more — to never again show up in person to a physical meeting location. This is government by telephone.”

The three bills have garnered a string of critical newspaper editorials — reflecting the fact that journalists are particularly affected by creeping official secrecy — but they nevertheless continue to advance.

In California, sunshine is giving way to darkness.

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

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

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

PUZZLE BY JONATHAN KAUFMAN

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

Struggle with a hurt, hang up, or habit? ceLeBrAte recOvery meets at Radiant Church on Wednesday nights at 6:30 pm, 4602 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville. We are a Christ centered recovery program to find healing from our hurts, hang ups, and habits. Email CR@radiantedc.church. Find us on Facebook at: https://www. facebook.com/CRradiantchurch.

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

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.

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.

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.

Injured river rafter retrieved by EDSO

Odin Rasco Staff writer

The South Fork of the American River became the scene of a river rescue Saturday afternoon after a rafter broke their arm.

During a trip down the river with a commercial rafting company that was not identified, a rafter was injured while the group navigated the chaos of the rapid known as Satan’s Cesspool. The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office river patrol unit was flagged down and notified of the injury around 3 p.m., according to

scenarios involving the utility company’s mock infrastructure built at the site.

“It’s pretty awesome,” said EDH Deputy Fire Chief Dustin Hall as he stood in the training center’s cul-de-sac. “A lot of hard work went into this by a lot of people.”

Hall, who has been a point person on the project since he joined the department in 2019, headed to one of the building’s fireproof rooms where an accelerant known as Excelsior will be lit to fill the space with smoke.

“The room is 100% protected,” he said, assuring no flames will escape. “The panels (on the walls and ceiling) … are designed to last 30 years.”

Excelsior is a special product designed to burn clean and produce little smoke once it reaches open air. At times, Hall said, training will include burning pallet furniture, which could produce darker smoke, but the businesses and homes shouldn’t notice much.

“As much as we can, we’re trying to burn clean,” Hall said. “We’re

Deputies Aaron Campora and Julian Sandoval located the injured rafter not far from Satan’s Cesspool and swiftly transported the victim to the Salmon Falls Bridge, where Cal Fire personnel was on site to attend to the injury. An EDSO social media post indicates the rafter avoided other possible injuries by wearing all proper safety gear, including a personal flotation device.

The rafter, whose identity was not provided by EDSO officials, was from out of the area and visiting El Dorado County on a family trip.

definitely conscientious of our neighbors. We want to make sure we don’t smoke anyone out.”

Construction began in March 2022 at the $12.5 million facility in the EDH Business Park next to Station 87. Phase 1 includes a streetscape with twostory and three-story residential Class “A” live fire training structures totaling approximately 10,000 square feet and a 1,600-square-foot outdoor classroom with storage and bathrooms as well as a water reclamation area plus grading, paving and utilities groundwork for this and future phases.

The residential structures emulate the architecture/layout of homes in El Dorado Hills with multiple levels and balconies and parts built into the hillside. Rooms have deep closets, living spaces have high ceilings and each house comes with its own twists and turns as well as a few dead ends.

“We designed this to be as real as possible,” Hall said. “I think we hit the nail on the head.”

El Dorado Hills

firefighters got their first look at the completed training center last month and some have even begun training there. “We’ve already opened the facility to our firefighters,” Hall shared. “They’re just not lighting fires yet.”

That is expected to begin by the end of this month once a few final details are finished, he added.

EDH Fire has already had several agencies, including the Folsom Fire Department and El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, inquire about using the facility for joint exercises, Hall said, adding that EDH Fire officials are grateful for local agencies’ and the public’s support of this project — the largest the department has undertaken.

“I’m happy we have come to this point and we can move on to something new,” Hall said.

As for his “something new,” the deputy chief said Johnson already has some ideas since most coordination for the training center project has wrapped up. “No rest for the wicked,” Hall joked.

Sgt. Kyle Parker.

Training Continued from A1

Volunteers to go to work at Fleming Meadows

Mountain Democrat staff

Mother Lode Trail Stewardship is planning a volunteer work day on the Fleming Meadows trail system near Jenkinson Lake Saturday, Aug. 19.

The Fleming Meadows area was burned in the Caldor Fire and its trails are in need of maintenance.

A post to the U.S. Forest Service Facebook page directs volunteers to meet at 8:45 a.m. at the Trail 8 trailhead, about 2 miles east of Sly Park Road on Mormon Emigrant Trail. Volunteers can look for a trail stewardship vehicle that will be parked in the area. Tools will be

LAkE LEvELS

provided but volunteers may bring their own non-power tools.

Volunteers are asked to fill out an online form at bit.ly/Trail8workday.

The work day will wrap up around 1 p.m.

Organizers of the work day advise volunteers to wear long pants, longsleeved shirts and sturdy shoes and to bring a helmet (could be a bicycle helmet), gloves, eye protection, water and a backpack. Organizers plan to provide food and drinks after the work day.

For more information email Motherlodetrailstewardahip@gmail. com.

1463, ensures those residents and firefighters get and feel support from all of us in California.”

The California Fire Foundation’s wide variety of programs, from immediate assistance to long-term recovery, supports vital needs of those affected by natural disaster while being committed to the

mission of providing emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they protect across the state.

For more information on California Fire Foundation’s Maui Wildfire Relief Fund calfirefoundation.org/ maui-wildfire-relief.

https://order.toasttab.com/online/west-coast-sourdough-placerville

ARIES (March 21-April 19). Understanding nuance is a blessing and a curse. Overwhelmed by the complexity of an interaction, you hesitate to proceed. Focus on what is simple and positive. Go forward in good faith, trusting the guidance of better angels.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20). A story will reveal quite a lot about a person. The choice of topic is the first tell. The second is not the facts of the tale, but how they are prioritized. You’ll learn what’s important to someone and know how to proceed with them.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Popularity has its perks, but it can also be draining. When you’re alone, you can spend your downtime doing whatever you want. Take the break you need from the world of friends. You’ll recharge by laying low.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). Connecting comes easily to you. You find something to like in each face you greet. You’ll be naturally “on” and when you’re not, take the time to recharge. There’s no need to force anything.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Archimedes said, “Give me a place to stand and I will move the earth.” You have the leverage part down, so sort out the positioning. Keep making adjustments to get this right. You’ll be amazed at how powerful you can be.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Overwhelmed? It’s a sign that your life is big, broad, rich and full. The tasks before you may be multitudinous, but they will be accomplished the same way anything on Earth ever is — one thing at a time.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Some things are important to do, and some things are nice to do. Try and check off everything in the first category before you move to the second because it will make your life easier down the line.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The gap between a certain dream and the reality of the situation has been wide for a good while. Now you’re in for the thrill of closing that space. Tonight, you’ll have the best time clowning around.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Solving a predicament will be about responding to the motives of others, which is only possible if you know what they are. Motives are often secret, even to the people they are inhabiting, but you’re astute and will figure it out.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). You feel pressured to give a top performance, and think it’s the world’s expectation, but it’s really your own. Stop expecting to do everything right. You’ll naturally do many right things when you show yourself more love and leeway.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Oh, the pitfalls of familiarity! Here’s one you can avoid: People close to you know how to push your buttons, but you can outsmart them by rewiring the circuitry, so they get something different than expected.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). There’s magic in paper today. Take your plan out of the digital realm so you can hold it in your hand, or tape it to a mirror, or give it to someone. Something about the physical copy that ushers in reality.

n SHOE by Jeff MacNelly

n TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

n RUBES by Leigh Rubin

n SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly

COMiCS

Mountain Democrat photo by Krysten Kellum

where the 2021 Caldor

El Dorado celebrates a Gold Nugget Game win over rival Union Mine in 2022. The Cougars and Diamondbacks will meet again on Oct. 27.

File photo by Natalie Mullhollen

Football is back

Isaac Streeter

Staff writer

High school football teams will be back in action this Friday.

Rivals El Dorado and Ponderosa will face each other on the gridiron for the first playing of the Gold Pan Game since 2019.

Seniors on both sides of the ball were not yet in high school the last time the two faced o . The Bruins beat the Cougars 50-7 in that contest on their home turf, but 2023’s matchup will take place at El Dorado. Kicko is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

The Oak Ridge Trojans will get the 2023 campaign under way with a home game versus the Spanish Springs Cougars out of Sparks, Nev. Oak Ridge enters the season

ranked 21st in the state of California, while Spanish Springs is the 10th ranked team in Nevada. Kicko will be at 7 p.m. in El Dorado Hills.

The Union Mine Diamondbacks will take on the Bella Vista Broncos on the road. Union Mine will look to right the ship after dropping its last four games following a 4-2 start in 2022. Kicko is scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. in Roseville.

The Golden Sierra Grizzlies will host the Valley High Vikings from Sacramento for their week one game. Golden Sierra will look to get on the right track after a three-win season in 2022; Valley High went 0-10 last season. Kicko will come at 7 p.m. in Garden Valley.

El Dorado County sheri ’s deputies were dispatched to a home on Mossy Oak Trail, a private road o Cedar Ravine Road, the evening of Oct. 3, 2022, following reports of a woman with a gunshot wound. When deputies arrived, 35-year-old Benavides was already dead. Heckley was located near the home and taken into custody, Sgt. Alexander Sorey told the Mountain Democrat at the time.

Speaking to the court and many of Benavidez’s friends and family members collected in the gallery prior to being sentenced, Heckley read a statement he had prepared.

“On Oct. 3, 2022, I made a decision I much regret by drinking and doing cocaine,” Heckley began. “I regret that I made a series of decisions that resulted in her death.”

Emotions where strong in the courtroom, with family members having to excuse themselves from the gallery as Heckley recounted the events that lead to Benavidez’s death. Heckley described the evening, stopping by Benavidez’s home to pick up her 16-year-old daughter. Heckley shared that he began to grow paranoid and took a firearm that was stored in one of the closets and while arguing with Benavidez, shot her multiple times.

After shooting Benavidez, Heckley then pulled her daughter into the room and repeatedly asked if another person was still present in the home.

Eventually Heckley used force to put the barrel of the weapon into the girl’s mouth and again questioned her. Afterward Heckley exited the house and attempted to flee the scene.

“I am sorry for the pain that I caused,” Heckley said.

Heckley said prior to the incident he planned to spend the rest of his life with Benavidez and thought of her child as a daughter. Some in the gallery protested what Heckley had said.

“You’re not going to say sorry?” yelled a voice. Heckley looked down and did not respond.

Friends and family members took turns to give victim impact statements prior to Ralphs handing down the sentence. A common theme in the stories shared revolved around Benavidez’s kindness and supportive presence in her family members’ lives.

“Monique was a good girl. A good daughter, granddaughter, cousin and friend. A good, good person. This should never have happened to her. We’re all at a loss,” Benavidez’s mother Melissa Bethel said, addressing Heckley directly at the end of her statement. “Even your mother is losing her son and you just sit there, emotionless and with no remorse.”

Benavidez’s cousin Hulena Bethel shared the pain she felt following the news. She and Benavidez had just spoken on the phone the day of the incident, talking excitedly about Bethel’s wedding plans.

“We should have been planning a wedding, not her funeral,” Hulena read from her prepared statement. “She should be here to see her daughter going into her last year of high school. Both of them were robbed of that opportunity. Life without her feels like a tragic, senseless nightmare. As long as our hearts are beating, they will be broken.”

Monique’s father Joey Benavidez spoke passionately for more than half an hour, saying he wanted to touch on every point he could for the people who weren’t able to speak that day.

“You took my daughter. You took my life. Broke it into pieces and I just can’t pick them up. Your actions are unforgivable,” Joey said. “I’m trying to find a will to live. I have to be a father again to my granddaughter. I don’t know if I can do it.

“I protected Monique because she was a diamond in my pocket. And the brief minute I wasn’t there, you did what you did. You’re going to prison, and that may be hell, but my hell is hotter. Only 56 years? That’s nothing.”

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Heckley Continued from A1

In the KNOW

Aug. 18

Sherwood Demonstration

Garden is open again every Friday and Saturday for open garden days, 9 a.m. to noon. Take a leisurely stroll through all 16 themed gardens. Docents are on site to assist with any gardening questions.

Check the website before visiting at ucanr.edu/sites/ EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden.

The Sierra Renaissance Society presents Making Abstract Art by Lucia Rothgab, 1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lion’s Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. Admission is free for members; public invited to attend two meetings each year at no cost. The Sierra Renaissance Society of El Dorado County is dedicated to lifelong learning and hosts presentations and workshops throughout the year. For more information visit srsedc.org.

Tom Rigney, the fiery, electrifying violinist/ composer called one of the premier blues and roots music violinists in the world, will perform at David Girard Vineyards in Placerville at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information visit davidgirardvineyards.com.

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

Musician Ed Wilson will perform at The Vine in Folsom, 6-8 p.m.

Aug. 19

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County host Fall and Winter Vegetables, 9 a.m. to noon. Learn how to grow a successful winter vegetable garden from Master Gardener Zack Dowell. This is being taught via Zoom. Register at surveys.ucanr.edu/survey. cfm?surveynumber=41102.

Third Saturday Art Walk partners with local businesses holding a sidewalk sale. Many merchants downtown will be having an all day sidewalk sale. Come down to historical Main Street in Placerville and find bargains. Third Saturday

Art Walk runs 4-8pm with musicians Jazz Gitan at The Wine Smith, 7-9 p.m., and Green Room Social Club features musician Deb Smith and a reception for artist Jack Mento, aka Kaimana, 3-5 p.m.

Miraflores Winery in the Pleasant Valley area serves its acclaimed Pairings Lunches on the Vineyard Terrace on Saturdays and Sundays with seatings from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 2-4 p.m. Pairings 2023 combines a chef’s

Fused glass artspeaks to the soul

Sylvia Coleman Placerville Arts Association

The Placerville Arts Association welcomes JR Sterba, a Sacramento glass fusion artist, Monday, Aug. 21.

Sterba studied in Fort Worth, Texas, and through the years her artistic focus and passion moved from working with clay to glass fusion artworks.

Sterba will bring samples and explain the process of glass fusion and how it is different from glass blowing. She likes to refer to her studio as the “Glass Shack.” To reach the artist and see her work visit glassfusiondesigns.com.

“Glass has always been a passion of mine,” she shared.

“My goal is to create art that is not only fun but functional — a part of the home décor that speaks to the soul.

“If you ever lose me in a crowd, just look for the shiny things,” Sterba added.

The artistic group meets 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the Placerville Senior Center’s lunch room, 937 Spring St. After the presentation, there is a break for refreshments that gives attendees the opportunity

to meet the guest speaker, other artists and art lovers. This month artists who “took the challenge” at the July meeting to create their own version of the “Cosmic Cat” (an AI art piece by Lynell Phillips) will share their own “artist’s mind” interpretations after

Sterba’s presentation.

Placerville Arts Association promotes the creative work of its members, provides opportunities for sharing ideas among artists and invites public interest through a variety of visual art events and an open invitation to attend

their monthly meetings. PAA also reaches out to the community by giving yearly monetary grants to local school art programs and youth programs like the Boys and Girls Club. It is the oldest nonprofit art group in El Dorado County in continuous operation since the early 1960s. Previous meetings and events can be viewed at the PAA YouTube channel: youtube.com/@ placervilleartsassociation5334. Also, the current gallery show at the Bank of America Gallery at the Harris Center in Folsom can be viewed online at paa. gallery. Placerville Arts loves to welcome new members all year long. There is no age limit to creativity. Members are able to participate with other members at two yearly member shows at the El Dorado County Government Center in Placerville, be a part of a studio art tour and enter the September Mother Lode Art Exhibition. Visit PAA’s website for upcoming events and opportunities at placervillearts. com. Like the group on Facebook at facebook.com/ PlacervilleArtsAssociation.

Midsummer festival brings fantasy world to life

News release

AMADOR COUNTY — Get ready to immerse yourself in a magical weekend of enchanting melodies, captivating performances and vibrant interactive experiences at the highly anticipated Midsummer Fairytale: Celtic and Folk Music Festival. The annual event is set to take place at the Amador County Fairgrounds in Plymouth Aug. 19 & 20.

This year’s midsummer festival promises to transport attendees to a realm of ancient Celtic and Renaissance traditions, bringing together talented musicians, artisans, performance and food vendors. From hauntingly beautiful ballads to toe-tapping jigs, the festival will showcase a diverse range of sounds that celebrate the rich heritage of Celtic and folk music.

Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the power and allure of live performances by renowned artists who will grace the stage at the Amador County Fairgrounds while enjoying all the experiences of a fantasy faire. With soul-stirring melodies and spirited rhythms, these musicians will create an immersive atmosphere that will resonate with attendees long after the event concludes.

Festival-goers will also have the chance to browse through a delightful marketplace, brimming with handcrafted treasures and unique artisanal creations. From intricately designed jewelry to beautifully crafted items, clothing and tools, the vendors offer a selection of wares that can’t be

“Burst,” fused glass by JR Serba

Courtesy photo

Enjoy medieval fun at the Midsummer Fairytale: Celtic and Folk Music Festival this weekend in Plymouth. n See Festival page B5

Authentic music continues in Drytown as summer wanes

DRYTOWN

O’Reilly’s

but not soul. The musician’s voice is beautiful and unique and his lyrics stark yet lush over gritty electrified guitar, melding beautifully into genre-defying music within the vast definitions of Americana.

Live performance is at the core of O’Reilly’s projects. He goes from raw gospel blues to cinematic epics, from heavy driving grooves to delicately arranged folk songs. O’Reilly leaves the stage out of breath and sweaty, his audience in awe. The details might slip away as they recount them, but the feeling remains.

“I started playing music as medicine for myself to feel good and digest some melancholy,” O’Reilly explained. “Over time, I realized if music makes me feel good, the people around me who become a part of it will feel good too. It connects us on the same wavelength. I hope to give the world something real and refreshing.”

O’Reilly takes the stage at 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19.

The Hazy Valley Boys is made up of some of the Sacramento region’s best players. The talented musicians will perform traditional country swing with a classic style, lighting up the social club’s century-old western building. Catch the show at 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 20.

Concert tickets can be purchased at the door or online at feistwines.com. The venue o ers farmto-fork wood-fired pizza. Space is limited and advanced tickets are recommended. The Drytown Social Club is located at 15950 Highway 49 in Drytown.

‘American Pickers’ to film in California

News release

The American Pickers are excited to return to California. They plan to film episodes of The History Channel hit television series throughout the state in September.

“American Pickers” is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on The History Channel. The hit show follows skilled pickers in the business as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find historically significant or rare items, in addition to unforgettable characters and their collections.

As they hit the backroads from coast to coast, the pickers are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way they want to meet characters with amazing stories and fun items. They

hope to give historically significant objects a new lease on life while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way. The pickers have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them.

The show is looking for leads and would love to explore hidden treasure. If you or someone you know has a unique item, story to tell, and is ready to sell, the pickers would love to hear about it. Please note, the pickers do not pick stores, flea markets, malls, auction businesses, museums or anything open to the public.

If interested send your name, phone number, location and description of the collection with photos to americanpickers@cineflix.com or call (646) 493-2184.

Courtesy photos

Marty O’Reilly, left, is known for passionate performances that incorporate music from many genres. Listen to him live Saturday night in Drytown. The Hazy Valley Boys, right, will perform music that will get the audience onto the Drytown Social Club dance floor Sunday afternoon.

Courtesy photo

If you or someone you know has a great collection of antiques, now’s the time to let “American Pickers” know. The show is set to shoot in California next month.

Dry Diggings Festival unites artists, musicians, performers

News release

Dry Diggings Festival returns to the Sierra Nevada foothills this year in Auburn, Aug. 25-27. It promises an electrifying celebration of music, family, art and games. Cultivating a diverse array of world-class talent both on the stage and in the vending booths, Dry Diggings brings together a music loving community of old and new friends that feel like family. This year’s event is expected to create a fresh space for connection, exploration and discovery as the festival settles into its new grounds.

Now nestled within the heart of Auburn, Dry Diggings Festival has become a wonderful experience for artists, musicians, performers, vendors and volunteers, who converge from all corners of the globe to participate in this unique gathering. Known for its stacked lineup and vibrant family campout scene, the festival will take place at the Gold Country Fairgrounds, right in the heart of old downtown Auburn. Festival goers will be treated to an unforgettable experience that showcases some of the finest talents from the Reggae music world.

Line up & fun

Friday: Ky-Mani Marley, Protoje, Groundation, Don Carlos, Jesse Royal, E.N Young, Mighty Mystic and Pacific Vibration.

Saturday: Dirty Heads, SOJA, Fortunate Youth, Artikal Sound System, Shwayze, Sa-Roc, Kyle Smith, Boostive, Aaron Wolf, Aaron Borowitz, Arden Park Roots and Miki Rae & The Hooligans.

Sunday: Slightly Stoopid, Pepper, Long Beach Dub Allstars, Arise Roots, Pacific Dub, Marlon Asher, Wide Eyed Kids and Top Shelf.

Beyond the stellar musical lineup, Dry Diggings is equally famous for its carefully curated selection of vendors offering delectable cuisines, one-of-akind artisanal goods and unique souvenirs. The festival’s dedication to supporting local businesses and artists adds an authentic touch to the entire

experience, creating a vibrant marketplace where creativity and entrepreneurship flourish.

“The Dry Diggings community is like no other,” says the festival’s founder, Jeff Monser. “We are a close-knit family of passionate individuals who share a profound love for music, art and creating memorable moments. It’s not just about the music; it’s about building connections and forging lasting friendships.”

For those seeking more than just entertainment, Dry Diggings offers an array of yoga and sound healing workshops, an interactive Kidzone installation, Games on the Green and more.

Tickets for Dry Diggings Festival are available on the official website: drydiggingsfest.com. Children 12 and younger are free when accompanied by a ticketed adult. Camping options are also available while they last. Security will be present and will be conducting searches for everyone’s safety.

Courtesy photos Mighty Mystic, above, takes the stage at the Dry Diggings Festival Friday, Aug. 25. Music legend Don Carlos, below, is also scheduled to perform for the crowd.

Courtesy photos

Slightly Stoopid, above, is one of the headliners, part of a spectacular musical line up at the Dry Diggings Festival. Fortunate Youth will perform Saturday, Aug. 26, at the Gold Country Fairgrounds

“It’s not just about the music; it’s about building connections and forging lasting friendships.”

— Festival founder Jeff Monser

Know Continued from B1 creativity with the beautifully crafted Miraflores wines. Diners will be able to talk to the chef du jour about the wine and food experience. On Aug. 19 and 20 chef Tara Martinez is preparing a Turkish Delight. Call (530) 647-8505 or email info@mirafloreswinery.com to make a reservation.

Carson Road Wineries hosts its Summer BBQ Series with grilled bites and great wines at Crystal Basin Cellars, Nello Olivo Winery, Findleton Estate and Myka Cellars.

Mastroserio Winery, 7351 FairPlay Road in Fair Play, is presenting Saturday Nights Jazz and Pizza on Aug. 19 from 6-9 p.m. Come with family, significant ones and friends to have a good time with live jazz improv, pizza and delicious wines. Ruggero and his friends will serenade you on a cozy patio under a beautiful sunset. To make a reservation call or text (530) 417-4321.

Gwinllan Estate Winery in Fair Play hosts its annual Winemaker Dinner. Enjoy a five-course dinner paired with award-winning wines and hear stories of the vine. Call (530) 723-2879 or email info@gwinllanestate.com.

The Stage at Burke Junction presents Home Grown Comedy with Saul Trujillo, Hormoz Rashidi, Colby Lawson and host Roman Gusman at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com/homegrowncomedy.

Fairytale Town in Sacramento hosts a volunteer orientation at 10 a.m. For more information visit fairytaletown.org.

A schedule of superstar headliners will perform at the Harveys Outdoor Arena during the Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series. Acts featured: Darius Rucker (Aug. 19) and Kane Brown (Aug. 31 and Sept. 1). For tickets and more information visit visitlaketahoe.com.

Aug. 20

El Dorado Western Railroad offers train rides at the El Dorado Station, 4650 Oriental St., beginning at 10 a.m. the first and third Sundays of each month. Trains leave on the hour 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., weather permitting. Call ahead to ensure trains are running at (530) 663-3581.

Holly’s Hill Vineyards in the Pleasant Valley area hosts live music at 1 p.m. See Retro Duo (Aug. 20) and Hill Country Jam Sessions (Aug.

27). For more details visit hollyshill.com/events.

Brickyard Counter & Bar at El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts a corn hole tournament, 1-4 p.m. at the Steven Young Amphitheater.

Jen Oliver presents the Real Conversations, a candid afternoon with Folsom local Julia Nicholson, whose personal journey marks the coexistence of terrible loss and incredible joy, 2 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.

Aug. 21

The Taxpayers Association of El Dorado County meets at 7:30 a.m. at Denny’s in Placerville with the following schedule of speakers: El Dorado County Assessor Jon DeVille (Aug. 21), El Dorado County RecorderClerk Janelle Horne (Aug. 28).

Vitalant will hold an El Dorado Hills blood drive noon to 4 p.m. The Bloodmobile will be parked in the parking lot near the baseball fields at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District, 1021 Harvard Way. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code

SMFM019 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows. Donors will be entered into a Vitalant drawing for a chance to win one out of five $5,000 prepaid gift cards.

Beausoleil avec Michael Doucet will perform at 7 p.m. at The Sofia in Sacramento. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Aug. 22

Main Street Collective presents Drew Butts, 7 p.m. at The Green Room Social Club in downtown Placerville. For tickets and more information visit clubgreenroom.com.

Broadway at Music Circus in Sacramento presents “Rent,” Aug. 22-27. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Matt Donnelly – The Mind Noodler will perform at Valhalla Tahoe’s Boathouse Theatre at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.showare.com.

n See Know, page B5

Festival Continued from B1

found anywhere else. While browsing the artisan crafts on display, visitors also will be able to take in sights such as talented falconers, rowdy and rambunctious pirates, noble knights valiantly defending the royal court and many medieval-themed activities.

Tickets for Midsummer Fairytale: Celtic and Folk Music Festival

Know Continued from B4

Now

The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office is now recruiting for the Sheriff’s Team of Active Retirees volunteers. The potential opportunities include but are not limited to patrol, clerical office work, community outreach, special events and more. They support various functions of law enforcement and the community. The next STAR Academy will be held Oct. 9-19. Requirements to be a STAR are to have no criminal history and a clean driving record. For more information contact the STAR office at (530) 621-7545 or email EDSOStars@edso.org.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Aladdin Jr.” through Aug. 20. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

California Stage in Sacramento presents “Chef” through Aug. 27 at the Three Penny theater. For tickets and more information visit calstage.org.

B Street Theatre at The Sofia in Sacramento presents “The Play That Goes Wrong” through Sept. 10. For tickets and more information call (916) 443-5300 or visit bstreettheatre.org.

Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents

A Gathering, sculptural and functional ceramics from 35 Black American emerging and established artists living and working in the United States, through Aug. 20; Breaking the Rules, art of Paul Wonner and Theophilus Brown, through Aug. 27; and Estamans de la Raza, contemporary screenprints and lithographs by by Chicanx and Latinx artists living and working in the United States, through Oct. 1. For tickets and more information visit crocker.org.

Soroptimist International of Cameron Park/ El Dorado Hills invites local women to apply for the Live Your Dream Award. This program provides cash awards to women who are working to better their lives through additional schooling. Applicants should be the primary source of financial support for themselves and their dependents and be attending or accepted into an undergraduate degree or skills training program. For more information go to sicpedh. org. Apply online at bit.ly/LYDA-apply. Deadline is Nov. 15, 2023.

The Murer House Foundation continues its Italian language classes at the Murer House Learning Center in old Folsom. Students can learn Italian in small and supportive classes designed to maximize contact with the

are available for purchase online at MidsummerFairytale.net and Eventbrite, but will also be available at the door. For more information about the festival visit MidsummerFairytale.net or follow the festival’s official social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

teacher. For more information and to enroll visit murerhousefoundation.org/languageclasses.

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 a.m. For more information call (530) 622-1180.

The Master Gardener public office is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to noon at 311 Fair Lane, Placerville. Have a gardening question or problem? Come in and chat. Bring a cutting or insect in a Ziploc baggie or a picture. Can’t come in person? Call (530) 621-5512 and leave a voicemail or email mgeldorado@ucanr.edu.

The purpose of the Widowed Persons Club is to provide a support group for widowed men and women of all ages and provide a wide range of social activities through which they have an opportunity to make new friends and find a new direction in their lives. Regular breakfasts are held every Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. at Denny’s in Placerville. For those interested in joining or reservations call Glenda at (530) 295-8374 or Nancy at (530) 919-8276.

El Dorado County Certified Farmers Markets have begun Saturdays at Placerville Cinema on Placerville Drive, 8 a.m. to noon; Wednesdays at Burke Junction on Coach Lane in Cameron Park, 8 a.m. to noon; and Sundays at El Dorado Hills Town Center, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Placerville Main Street Farmers Market takes place Wednesdays, 4 p.m. to dusk, in the Mooney Lot on Main Street. This market specializes in local fruits and vegetables, sustainable agriculture and community. Gold Bug Park & Mine in Placerville is open Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit goldbugpark.org.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2680 in El Dorado County invites veterans of World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War as well as those seeing action in Afghanistan, Iraq and other countries during the war on terror plus those serving peace-keeping missions throughout the globe to become VFW members. Member benefits are plenty and there is no fee for the first year. For more information call (530) 499-2950.

Send items for In The Know at least two weeks in advance of the event to nstack@ mtdemocrat.com.

Blues great coming to intimate Sac venue

News release

SACRAMENTO — The Sacramento Blues Society presents Bernard Allison at Harlow’s.

There’s nothing like the sound of a world-class bluesman getting back to business. Last October, when Allison returned to his old haunt of Bessie Blue Studios, Tennessee, to be greeted by fabled producer and career-long collaborator Jim Gaines, it felt like coming home. And when Allison fired up the amps, counted in the band and embarked upon his latest studio album, “Highs And Lows,” everything felt right with the world.

“Just to be able to create music again after the pandemic,” he said of that long-awaited rebirth, “was incredible.”

For 56 years, music has been Allison’s essence. As the youngest son of the much-missed Chicago bandleader Luther Allison, he was a bluesman from birth, naturally drawn to this ancient music that seemed to heal deep wounds, and held spellbound by early encounters with heavyweights like Muddy Waters, Albert King and Hound Dog Taylor. Shuttled between Florida and Illinois as a child, but never separated from his guitar, by 12, Bernard was a fireball player himself and at 18 he commanded instant respect as his dad’s guest at the 1983 Chicago Blues

Festival.

One week after graduating high school, Bernard cut his teeth on the road with Koko Taylor’s Blues Machine lineup — and ended up staying for most of the ’80s. By the close of the decade, however, he assumed a twin identity, leading and writing for his father’s band while forging a solo career that exploded in Europe off the back of early albums like “The Next Generation” (1990), “No Mercy” (1994) and “Funkifino” (1995).

“My dad always told me,” he says of his talent for splicing blues with funk, rock and R&B, “don’t let them label you like they labeled me, as Chicago blues.”

Across his respected three-decade career, Bernard has certainly tasted the highs. Just ask him for his memories of jamming with Stevie Ray Vaughan on his 16th birthday. “He contacted my mom and said he and Double Trouble were going to surprise me after their show.” Or being given a lesson by the Texas tornado himself, “Johnny Winter sat me down and taught me how to play slide in open tuning.” But even when the lows bit — like losing Luther to cancer in 1997, just as his career was peaking — Bernard has defied his circumstances. That same year’s solo album, “Keepin’ n See Allison, page B7

chicken and grilled cheese — will be on site. Burnside Coffee will be onsite featuring specialty non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Pretzel necklaces, made by Neck Nosh, will be available for purchase as well.

root beer float garden featuring Gunther’s Ice Cream.

Stay up to date on the Tales & Ales Brewfest and find additional information about the park at fairytaletown. org or contact (916) 808-7462.

& Ales Brewfest will be filled with live music from Soul Non Blind, options from a variety of food trucks, exciting raffle prizes and unlimited tastings of craft beers, ciders and wines.

Three of Drewski’s food trucks — featuring Mexican food, fried

Included with the price of admission, guests will be treated to more than 25 different craft beverages from local breweries, cideries and wineries.

Attendees will have the opportunity to sip and savor unlimited refreshing beers, crisp ciders and carefully curated wines. For the non-drinkers and kids, head over to the

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Fairytale Town has delighted millions of guests, inspiring imagination, creativity and literacy since it opened in 1959.

Fairytale Town remains one of the only literacy-based parks that continues to serve children in the Sacramento region.

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Fairytale Town is a nonprofit children’s park and educational center in Land Park whose mission is to promote the imagination, creativity and education of children. Fairytale Town is home to more than 25 threedimensional play sets based on favorite fairytales and nursery rhymes, a family of 22 rare and miniature breed animals, three interactive learning gardens, and two performing arts stages.

Fairytale Town is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., March through October, and Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., November through February, weather permitting, and unless otherwise noted.

Courtesy photo

Bernard Allison has made an impressive name for himself in the world of blues. See him live at Harlow’s next week.

The Blues Alive,” might as well have been his mission statement, and Bernard has spent the last quarter-century both honoring his father and exploring his own voice during a flourishing solo career that includes 2018’s highly acclaimed “Let It Go.” “This album,” noted Blues Rock Review, “shows his mastery of the blues.”

Now, released in 2022 on Ruf Records, “Highs And Lows” sees Bernard continue that quest, acknowledge his lineage through two classic songs by his father — “Gave It All” and “Now You Got It”

— and offer nine new originals either written solo or alongside a tight circle of trusted collaborators. Listeners will hear that camaraderie on “Highs And Lows” — a record that fuses stinging musicianship with songs written to soundtrack everything that life can throw at a man, for good and bad. Try the irresistible groove of “Hustler” — a funk gem written by Bernard with Andrew Thomas, whose horn-and-harp groove evokes the strut of the title character (“I’m a natural-born hustler,” he sings. “It’s all in my blood”). Or the masterful “Last

General Manager for Cameron Park Community Services District

Salary: $130,000.00 - $160,000.00 Annually

Description: Are you an innovative, forward-thinking professional in the field of finance and administration? Are you a self-starter with exceptional communication skills who excels at working with members of the community and public officials in helping provide a community excellent service?

Do you enjoy the feel of a small town with access to regional amenities? If so, Cameron Park Community Services District (District) welcomes your application for General Manager.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: August 28, 2023, at 11:59 PM PST. Apply at: https://bit.ly/CPCSDGMApply

Night,” which shifts tempo from an upbeat chop to a weeping slow-blues, capturing the changing moods of a man chasing his runaround woman.

As for the title track, Bernard said it speaks for anyone left bemused by life’s roller coaster. “It’s a part of life, the ups and downs that everyone deals with,” he shared.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:70 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24, at Harlow’s, 2708 J St. in Sacramento. For tickets visit harlows.com/event/ bernard-allison/harlows/sacramento-california.

Snow Removal Worker-Extra Help Department of Transportation ***This recruitment is eligible for a $6,000 incentive***

The incentive shall be paid in equal installments for the first twenty-six (26) consecutive biweekly pay periods in the position.

Termination from employment (or release due to season ending) will result in any remaining cash incentive payments being forfeited.

The County of El Dorado is committed to promoting the power of public service by fostering a diverse and collaborative workplace where employees are empowered, respected, and valued. The dedicated efforts taken by the Board of Supervisors continues to promote El Dorado County as a competitive employer that is committed to recruiting and retaining qualified employees by advocating for competitive salaries and excellent benefits. The County of El Dorado is also supportive of providing telework opportunities for employees consistent with business needs and in accordance with Board of Supervisors Policy E-12 - Telecommuting.

The Department of Transportation is committed to ensuring that El Dorado County roadways are safe for public use. The department prioritizes the preservation of infrastructure by preserving and maintaining the public’s multi-billion dollar investment in our roads, bridges, and other facilities associated with the County Road System.

The ideal candidate will be experienced with operating a variety of heavy equipment. Duties will include but are not limited to performing snow removal, ice control, and storm patrol work. Must possess a valid Commercial Class B driver’s license. Must be willing to work nights, weekends, and overtime during emergencies and winter storm conditions. Must be willing to work out-of-doors in all weather conditions. Ability to operate a variety of vehicles and heavy equipment used to perform snow removal.

**A current DMV printout must be attached to your on-line application.

To apply go to: governmentjobs.com/careers/ edcgov

If you have questions regarding this recruitment, contact Jenny Thomas in Human Resources at jenny.thomas@edcgov.us

Education Center near Pollock Pines. Starting Hourly Rates: Cafeteria Assistant -$16.40 hr., Cook- $19.01 hr., Maintenance Custodian - $19.49 hr. Click here to apply today: http://www.edjo.in/1807592

For more information, contact Sacramento County Office of Education Personnel Dept. 916-228-2332

Public Notices 

Allison Continued from B6

All Events

SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

Five GRAMMYs, 14 Blues Foundation Awards, and a groundbreaking career spanning nearly 50 years. Born and raised in Compton, Keb’ began his remarkable journey at the age of 21. His captivating new album, Good To Be, artfully links the grit and groove of his Compton, CA, roots with strum and twang of his more recently adopted hometown of Nashville, TN. Drawing on country, folk, blues, and soul, the collection transcends genre and geography, weaving together a joyful, heartwarming, and relentlessly optimistic tapestry that manages to encompass the entirety of this once-in-ageneration artist’s larger-than-life career.

SEPTEMBER 17, 2023

¡Viva el mariachi! A new generation takes mariachi to whole new heights—Latin Grammy-nominee Mariachi Herencia de México presents Herederos (the “Heirs”). Simultaneously honoring the past, celebrating the present, and creating the future of mariachi music, Mariachi Herencia de México presents an unforgettable night of Mexican music and culture.

The energetic, virtuosic group has issued chart-topping albums and performed across the North American continent. Nuestra Herencia, their 2017 debut album, topped the Latin streaming charts. 2018’s Herencia de la Tierra Mía charted atop all major streaming services. 2019’s Esencia topped industry charts, while a second volume, issued in 2020 performed similarly.

NOVEMBER 2-5, 2023

THEIR MUSIC, THEIR STORY, THEIR PASSION...

On Your Feet! is the story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, two people who— through an unwavering dedication to one another and their pursuit of the American dream— showcased their talent, their music, and their heritage to the world in a remarkable rise to global superstardom. SOME OF THE MOST ICONIC SONGS OF ALL TIME...

Featuring music by Emilio Estefan, Gloria Estefan, and Miami Sound Machine, including Grammy Award winning songs “The Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Anything for You,” “1-2-3,” “Get On Your Feet,” and “Here We Are.”

Prepare to be on your feet from start to finish!

608-6888

Photo by David Grenier

Photo: DJ Corey Photo: DJ Corey