El Dorado County Superior Court Judge Mark Ralphs has formally accepted plea agreements for three former sta members of the now-closed Guiding Hands School, bringing an end to a yearslong criminal case stemming from the death of 13-year-old Max Benson.
Ralphs had postponed sentencing in June after hearing concerns regarding the plea deals o ered by the El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce. Following a review of case materials, he confirmed the agreements during a hearing on Aug. 8. Under the plea agreements, former administrator Cindy Keller and principal Staranne Meyers each received four years of probation. Former teacher Kimberly Wohlwend was sentenced to two years of probation and must attend a 52-week child abuse prevention program. None of the three will serve prison time.
The case drew widespread attention due to the
Local man accused of child sex crimes
Mountain Democrat sta A Cameron Park man is behind bars, accused of sending explicit content and arranging meetings for sexual encounters with juveniles, according to the El Dorado County Sheri ’s O ce. Shawn O’Donnell was arrested Aug. 5 by detectives from the EDSO Investigations Unit and booked into the El Dorado County Jail on suspicion of oral copulation with a minor, sending of explicit material to a minor, contacting a minor to engage in sex acts, pandering and human tra cking. He is listed in custody and being held with no bail. O’Donnell was employed as a janitorial supervisor with Natoma Station Elementary School. The FolsomCordova Unifi ed School District released a statement after the suspect’s arrest. “These allegations
PLACE ADDRESS
VOLUNTEERS SCRUB THE SLUDGE from hist ical headst es
Noel Stack Editor
Scrubbing history is never advised … unless you’re doing it the Save the Graves way. About two dozen people gathered Saturday morning to clean historical headstones at Greenwood Pioneer Cemetery.
Led by Save the Graves President and selfprofessed taphophile Mike Roberts, National Charity League, Boys Team Charity and other volunteers took on the heat, the stickers on the unmowed grounds and the lack of a bathroom to ensure important pieces of El Dorado County’s colorful past survive for the next generation — at least.
“We’re prolonging the life of these headstones and that’s important,” Roberts told the crowd before work began, noting that when people can read the headstones it piques their interest in learning more about the people buried there, building a connection between past and present.
“This is not about doing this perfectly,” he stressed. “It’s about getting the nasty, crusty stu o . By doing that we could extend its life by 100 years. That’s pretty cool.”
Greenwood Pioneer
Cemetery, located o Highway 193 north of Georgetown, was established in 1852. Its headstones are mostly granite and marble — some of that rock had to “come from around the Horn,” Roberts noted — with a few wooden markers as well, which the volunteers were advised not to touch. Roberts did encourage “hands on” the stone markers. “Love it. Own it,” he said. “Put your hands on it and make sure it’s solid.” Roberts made note of wobbly headstones, which he said would be cared
Photo courtesy of EDSO
Shawn O’Donnell is taken into custody after his arrest last week in El Dorado County.
Mountain Democrat photos by Noel Stack
Save the Graves President and self-professed taphophile Mike Roberts demonstrates how to properly clean a headstone during a volunteer event at Greenwood Pioneer Cemetery on Aug. 9.
Above, Carrie and Tai Southerland clean up the White family marker during Saturday’s volunteer event. The Douglas family of El Dorado Hills, below, works on two headstones at the Greenwood Pioneer Cemetery. Left to right are Taylor, Ashley and Tucker.
ESSENTIALS
Gary Lee Brown
Aug. 3, 1947 – Aug. 1, 2025
Gary Lee Brown, of Diamond Springs, CA, passed away in Oakland, California on August 1, 2025, two days before his 78th birthday. Three weeks before his passing, Gary su ered a cardiac event and was cared for with exceptional skill and compassion by the team at Summit Hospital before peacefully succumbing to his injuries.
Gary, a ectionately known by his family as Buddy, is survived by his wife of 50 years, Virginia (Ginger) Brown; their three children: Geo rey, Daniel, and Samantha, their spouses: Meredith, Gwendy, and Sandro, and seven grandchildren: Abraham (17), Zachary (15), Solana (13), Eloise (10), Wesley (10), Lucia (8), and Sylvie (4), and his brothers: Steven and David. He was preceded in death by his brother Kit and parents Kenneth and Patsy.
Born on August 3, 1947 in Pasadena, California, Gary was the second of four sons born to Kenneth and Patsy Brown. The family moved to Scottsdale, Arizona where Gary and his brothers ran wild in the desert, building dune buggies and hosting a menagerie that included a territorial duck, a tarantula, and a monkey. He received his B.S. from the University of California, San Diego in 1972 and while attending a Spanish language program there, met the love of his life in Ginger. Rumor has it he asked her to marry him on their first date. Ginger and Gary were married in 1974 and lived in California, Iran, and Oregon before settling down in Harvard, Massachusetts to raise their three children. Gary worked as a ‘computer guy;’ he humbly downplayed his many accomplishments despite holding three patents for the LISP programming language, which is still used today. He earned a Masters in Technology Management from NTU and was employed by Digital Equipment Corporation and Xerox for the majority of his career. In Harvard, Gary enjoyed taking the kids on poker group camping, coaching soccer, and caring for many beloved dogs. After their children graduated from high school, the Browns moved back to California, first to Palos Verdes Estates and then to Diamond Springs for their retirement. Gary was an exceptionally good human who dedicated his life to caring for his family, always creating amazing spaces for them to gather. He was a lifelong creator and skilled woodworker, leaving his family many handmade pieces — each crafted with care and always intended to be useful. His immense intelligence was surpassed only by his kindness and gentle spirit that touched most everyone he met. A deep appreciator of literature, music, history, rational thought, and curious facts, he loved sharing his eclectic interests with his family and friends through spirited discussion. He could tell a really good joke. He was loved beyond measure and his memory is cherished by his wife and children who will miss him every day.
A service honoring Gary’s life and memory will be held on August 31, 2025 in Berkeley, CA. In lieu of flowers, please pick up a crossword puzzle and do a math problem for Buddy. Alternatively, he would appreciate a donation to Wikimedia, to help preserve knowledge for humanity.
John Allen York
Aug 4, 1935 – July 27, 2025
John Allen York passed away 7/27/2025 from kidney failure. He was 89 years old, 8 days away from his 90th birthday.
John worked 34 years for the California Highway Patrol, and was a 50-year resident of El Dorado County. He is survived by his wife, Anita Gastaldi York, daughter Sandra von Herrmann (Joe), granddaughters Anna (Abanezio) and Tara, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his brother Joseph York and his parents Jesse and Eva(Woods) York.
There will be a memorial mass at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Placerville, 3109 Sacramento Street, on Monday 8/18/25 at 11:00 AM.
John Clingan
Nov 10, 1952 – June 17, 2025
John was an amazing person. We lost him very quickly. He is survived by his long time partner Laura Foss, 2 children and 9 grandchildren. He will be sorely missed.
TheGold
Bruce Edward Gray
Nov 28, 1940 – Jan 14, 2025
An honest, kind, gentle, loving person, Bruce was a devoted husband, step-father and grandfather. Affectionately called ‘St. Bruce’ by his family because he truly was saint like in his ability to be loving and forgiving at all times. In fact, the last words he spoke were, “I love you” and that is so fitting.
Bruce was born in 1940 in Redwood Falls, Minnesota. He eventually relocated to Los Angeles County, were he started his 33-year long career in the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s department as a warehouse supervisor, making sure the jails were always stocked with the needed supplies while balancing the budget accordingly. He excelled in this role, as he was an honest man and hard worker.
Having before vacationed at Lake Tahoe, when it came time to retire, Bruce knew about the beautiful place that is El Dorado County. Cameron Park was coined, “a special place to live” and Bruce and his first wife Janice bought a brand new home in a new development near the Cameron Park Skate Park in 1996.
Bruce became a widower and eventually found Christian companionship with his beloved wife Carol Esther. They met at Carrow’s in Placerville for their first date. This was a divine appointment to be sure. They hit it off and were married. Bruce was a loyal husband and best friend to Carol, and the two of them would often go on outings together to shop and eat. Bruce was always immaculately dressed in his classic khaki pants and tucked in collared shirt, with his sensible New Balance tennis shoes. Everyone who knew Bruce knows this was his go-to outfit, yet one was impressed with Bruce not for his outward appearance, but his kind and gentle nature. He truly embodied the fruits of the spirit! He was a loving father to Carol’s two daughters, Andrea Lynn Abrams and Alison Kate Gennai. Bruce was a father figure who loved genuinely and unconditionally. He was also a loving grandpa to Alison’s children Laake J Gennai, Cameron Paul Gennai, Mary Kate Gennai, and Ireland Esther Gennai. Even after developing dementia, Bruce was still so nice and loving, enjoying the company of his grandchildren, daughters and wife.
Bruce has touched our family’s lives forever in such a positive way. He was a model of what it means to be a Christ-like man. We will always cherish our memories of Bruce. He died surrounded by family in the ICU of Marshal Hospital, after becoming seriously ill unexpectedly with pneumonia shortly after the new year. We are going to miss him deeply, but we take great comfort knowing he is safe in the arms of Jesus. Although this is a very painful loss, we know this isn’t goodbye forever, just goodbye for now.
Ellen Ray Springer-Maxey
Oct 13 1944 - July 18, 2025
Ellen Ray Springer-Maxey (AKA Comanche) passed away in her sleep on Friday July 18, 2025. She was born on Friday October 13, 1944 at the Placerville Sanitorium hospital on Coloma Street. Born to parents Leo Ray and Dixie Corinne Springer, she was the second born of 6 children. At the family home in Pleasant Valley, horseback riding, fishing, and other outdoor activities were abundant. Ellen loved horses from a young age. She trained and competed with them, along with riding her horse to work at the Cash Mercantile store.
Ellen was the last graduate from the one-room Pleasant Valley schoolhouse (also referred to as Gutenberger’s school). She graduated from El Dorado High School. She supported the Alumni Association throughout her lifetime. Ellen was a runner, earning many trophies for her performances over the years, including marathons.
In 1975, Ellen began a great adventure when she bought a 1975 Honda 400 motorcycle. She took that motorcycle, rode to Fort Hood, Texas, and joined the Army. She served 24 years, initially working her way to the rank of Sargent in the motor pool. She was a wrecker operator and mechanic. Her tour of duty included stations overseas (Germany was a favorite. She served in Iraq, with assignments in both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. By retirement, she achieved the rank of Master Sargent E-8.
After retirement, she was very active in the American Legion, both in Texas and after returning home to California. She served in various capacities, and was a mainstay with the Legion Riders motorcycle group 119. She was involved in its establishment, member recruitment, and coordination of activities.
Ellen was every bit of 4 feet 11 inches tall. She was filled with toughness that would not quit. Determined to succeed, she found her path forward to a fulfilling life. Her family, especially daughter Glenda, are very proud of her lifetime of accomplishments.
Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Dixie; sister Connie Bondietti; brother Richard Springer; son Lance Ritter. She is survived by her daughter Glenda Ritter-Brown (Karl), grandson Anthony Hatfield (Cami), brother Leo “Butch” Springer (Denise), Sister Jeannette Luna (Carl), Brother Brian Springer (Leslie), and many cousins, nieces and nephews. No services have been planned at this time.
Carol
Esther Petersen-Gray
Oct 29, 1946 – March 21, 2025
Beloved wife & mother, Carol Esther PetersenGray was an extraordinary person who always tried to encourage others to keep on going and not give up. Throughout her time being a mother, she taught her daughters and grandchildren a lot about perseverance and resilience, and she found this resilience in her faith in Jesus Christ, an advocate and source of strength, where help comes from.
Carol was born in Denver, Colorado to Wendell Fredrick Petersen and Mary Delcie Mackish Petersen. The family soon moved out to California, joining up with Carol’s beloved grandmother, Wendell’s mother, Kate and a few uncles who had already come out to California. They had a farm in Fair Oaks, when it was not the city it is now but actually a farming area. Carol had fond memories of this time, as she loved animals and here she was able to have various animals growing up, including a cow, dogs, and a horse.
Being very beautiful, Carol was asked to participate in the Ms. Fair Oaks pageant as a young lady. Although she didn’t participate, being invited was an honor and after her daughter Alison heard this story, she would always encourage her mom to “show us that Ms. Fair Oaks smile!”, even when times were hard. When Carol would break open that incredible smile of hers, she and everyone around would always feel better in the moment, whatever the circumstances.
Carol moved to Placerville after earning her bachelor’s degree from Sacramento State, having married her first husband Jon Rohrke who had family ties in Placerville. Here she made it her life’s work to be a mom, and she always strived to be a good, loving, devoted mom. She had Andrea Lynn in 1978 and Alison Kate in 1980. Although she taught Kindergarten for a year in Placerville, she quickly came to recognize her calling to be a stay-at-home mom. Some of her daughters’ greatest memories of their beautiful mother are of her in this role.
Carol was a loving, generous, forgiving mother who loved her two daughters and her four grandchildren very much. She always wanted the best for them, and always took the time to encourage them in the various ways she was gifted in, like writing notes & letters and saving items & gifts for her loved ones that they would personally appreciate.
Carol responded to Bruce’s add in the Mt. Democrat in 2000, after being divorced and finding herself single and living in the Placerville apartments. When she met Bruce for their first date at Carrows restaurant downtown, she had met the love of her life! They happily shared each other’s company, inseparable even up to the end with Carol’s cancer diagnosis in 2024 and Bruce’s ongoing dementia. As long as they had each other, things were good and they were content. They both loved Jesus and enjoyed attending church and listening to 88.1 FM KEBR Family Christian Radio. Carol passed away at home surrounded by family after bravely fighting stage IV cancer for over a year. Carol was laid to rest at East Lawn Memorial Park, 4300 Folsom Blvd. in Sacramento, the same cemetery where her mom, beloved father and grandmother are as well. Carol was interred on March 31, which happened to be her and Bruce’s 24th wedding Anniversary. They now share a grave under a tree here on earth, and through Jesus Christ they have already experienced a glorious reunion and are basking in each other’s fellowship again, this time with no problems whatsoever
Carol is preceded in death by her father Wendell Petersen, mother Mary Keele (Mackish), husband Bruce Gray, aunts Ruth Branch (Mackish) & Rosalie Elks (Mackish) and Uncles Raymond Mackish & Robert Mackish. Carol is survived by her two daughters, Andrea Lynn Abrams( Rohrke) and Alison Kate Gennai (Rohrke); four grandchildren: Laake J Gennai, Cameron Paul Gennai, Mary Kate Gennai and Ireland Esther Vaughn Gennai; her Aunt Martha Massing (Mackish) & numerous cherished cousins including first cousins Barbara Branch (Mackish), Donna Massing, Gloria Sachen (Massing), Ted Massing and Debra Petty (Mackish). Until that anticipated day when we all are reunited, we take comfort knowing Carol is now safe in the arms of Jesus.
Two dead, one injured in solo vehicle crash
Tahoe Daily Tribune
Two people died in a Sunday wreck south of Placerville, the California Highway Patrol has confirmed.
At approximately 7:15 p.m. on Aug. 10, Gerald Escobosa, 73, was driving a 2009 Nissan Pathfinder with two passengers — Sally Bishop, 72, in the right front seat, and Steven Escobosa, 72, in the right rear seat, CHP Placerville shared. The trio was traveling on Highway 49 a half-mile south
of Crystal Boulevard when for reasons unknown at this time the vehicle struck an embankment and overturned, blocking the roadway. CHP o cials reported the driver and the front right passenger were ejected from the vehicle and sustained fatal injuries. The rear passenger was transported to Marshall Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
Highway 49 was closed in both directions for approximately two hours after the crash, the cause of which remains under investigation.
Man drowns at Meeks Bay
Tahoe Daily Tribune
An adult male is dead after a drowning incident at Meeks Bay on the afternoon of Aug. 5.
The coroner has listed drowning as the cause of death.
The sheri ’s department has not released the identity of the decedent. At this time, it’s unclear what led to the drowning.
The deceased was a 53-year-old visiting Lake Tahoe from out of the country. According to the El Dorado County Sheri ’s Department, around 2:42 p.m. deputies responded to a report of a possible drowning. Deputies arrived and located the unresponsive man; despite first aid attempts to save his life, the victim was pronounced dead.
Fire truck collides with vehicle
Shelly Thorene
A fire truck responding to an incident got tangled in an emergency of its own Saturday afternoon, according to the California Highway Patrol. The Tribal Fire truck was headed eastbound on Highway 50 east of Red Hawk Parkway with lights and sirens on at 1:12 p.m. on Aug. 9 when, while moving from the No. 2 lane to the No. 1 lane, it collided with a 2016 Hyundai that was slowing to get out of the emergency vehicle’s way, CHP Placerville o cials shared. The collision caused the Hyundai to leave the roadway and it traveled down an embankment.
The driver of the Hyundai, who was not identified, was transported to Marshall
Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. No other injuries were reported.
TEETH BEFORE DENTISTS
concerns with us. We practice modern dentistry. We provide the best care possible by evaluating your needs individually. We’ll explain our findings and recommendations, and together we’ll choose the best treatment plan. Our concern is your comfort and confidence – our goal is to help you preserve your natural teeth for a lifetime. Rest assured that you can trust the health of your teeth to our extensive experience and training. Please call us to schedule an appointment. We offer “Tooth Print,” which is an impression of a child’s full mouth. About the size of a small wafer, the impression is given to
Mountain Democrat photos by Noel Stack
Above, EDH residents watch as EDSO’s Echo 1 comes in for a landing at Community Park during National Night Out. Below, kids enjoy making art at the El Dorado Hills Arts Association tent set up for NNO.
Tahoe champion honored with Dianne Feinstein Award
Jeff Cowen Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
LAKE TAHOE — E. Clement “Clem” Shute, a California attorney who dedicated much of his career to protecting Lake Tahoe, received the Dianne Feinstein Lake Tahoe Award at the annual Lake Tahoe Summit held in South Lake Tahoe last week. The award is named in honor of the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a longstanding commitment to preserving and improving Lake Tahoe’s environment.
Shute has played an instrumental role in Lake Tahoe’s protection and restoration since the early days of the environmental movement, according to the award presenters. During his career, he helped establish the bi-state Tahoe Regional Planning Agency in 1969, the first interstate compact agency of its kind in the nation. He also helped strengthen the agency’s regulatory framework and defended its policies before the highest courts in the nation.
“It’s a personal honor to have nominated Clem for this award on behalf of the environmental community and all who cherish Lake Tahoe,” said Dr. Darcie Goodman Collins, CEO for Keep Tahoe Blue.
“From his landmark legal accomplishments that went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court to his decade of service on TRPA’s Governing Board, Clem helped build partnerships for Team Tahoe that continue to protect Tahoe today — and will into the future.”
In addition to helping establish TRPA more than 55 years ago, in 2011, Clem answered the call to return to Lake Tahoe as one of
California’s representatives on the agency’s 15-member Governing Board. For the next nine years, Shute was a strong presence on the board. He helped negotiate a pivotal update to the Lake Tahoe Regional Plan in 2012 that ultimately brought California and Nevada together to recommit to the Bi-State Compact, TRPA Executive Director Julie Regan said. “Clem embodies the spirit of collaboration and partnership that has underpinned Lake Tahoe’s protection for more than 55 years,” Regan said. “During the Regional Plan Update, his extensive knowledge and commitment to collaborating with Nevada officials brought the bi-state partnership back together. Lake Tahoe remains
Shute began his law career in the California Attorney General’s Office working for the San Francisco Bay Area Conservation and Development Commission. His work in the appellate courts established significant precedents in environmental law. In 2002, he was part of the legal team that successfully defended the Lake Tahoe Regional Plan before the U.S. Supreme Court in Tahoe Sierra Preservation Council v. TRPA, a case that is widely cited in land-use planning policy. In 2015, Shute was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the
State Bar.
love of Lake Tahoe goes back to his childhood when he spent vacations on the North Shore with his family. Even as a boy he understood how special the lake is.
“When given the chance to help ‘save Lake Tahoe,’ the choice was easy,” he said. “Looking back, it’s incredible to see just how much has been accomplished collectively. It is humbling to be included among the major figures in Lake Tahoe’s preservation, and I feel those who were alongside me share in this award.”
In 2021, Sen. Feinstein herself became the first recipient of the eponymous award for her decades of dedication to Lake
Tahoe’s preservation. She co-founded the annual Lake Tahoe Summit 30 years ago along with the late Senator Harry Reid of Nevada. The event continues to bring federal, tribal, state and local leaders together to address environmental challenges facing the Lake Tahoe Basin and build collaborative, bi-partisan solutions.
In 2022, the legendary scientist Dr. Charles Goldman received the award. His research in the 1960s showed how harmful development practices were destroying the lake’s famed water clarity. Goldman’s work has helped guide science-based environmental policy in the Tahoe Basin for decades.
Andrew Halverson & Krysten Kellum
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife pinned badges on 22 new Wildlife Officer Academy graduates on Aug. 7 in Paradise, Butte County. These newly sworn wildlife officers will now go through a Field Training Program before setting out on solo patrol to protect California’s natural resources.
This graduating class of CDFW’s Wildlife Officer Academy chose the motto “On Track, Off Trail.” The wildlife officers’ specialized training will have them “On Track” with 1,250 academy hours used “Off Trail” as they safeguard California’s fish, wildlife and communities for generations to come.
marine enforcement, investigation of petroleum spills and response and cannabis enforcement, in order to best support California’s communities across the state.”
Since partnering with Butte College in 2008 to provide CDFW with certified California Peace Officer Standards and Training, this class saw the highest percentage of female cadets enter the academy at 31%.
The class also includes eight military veterans, a former CDFW Fisheries Branch wildlife technician and a former member of CDFW’s Nutria Eradication Program team who held the record for most nutria taken in the state. CDFW hopes to hire an additional four self-sponsored cadets graduating with this class.
“We are proud to see these 22 new and eager wildlife officers sworn in and to walk across the graduation stage to be pinned with their badges. They will support CDFW’s mission to protect the state’s natural resources,” said Nathaniel Arnold, CDFW deputy director and chief of Law Enforcement. “These wildlife officers will be deployed across the Law Enforcement Division’s programs, including regular patrol,
In the Field Training Program, the new wildlife officers will apply their academy training under the immediate supervision of seasoned field training officers. Field training with experienced FTOs is also mandated by POST to ensure wildlife officers can apply the skills they learned during the academy to real life circumstances. FTO is the final stage of formal training. For more information about becoming a wildlife officer visit wildlife.ca.gov/Enforcement.
Photo courtesy of CDFW
one of the clearest bodies of water in the world thanks to leaders like Clem over the decades.”
California
Shute’s
Clem Shute stands for a photo with the presenters of the Dianne Feinstein Lake Tahoe Award. From left, Keep Tahoe
Blue CEO
Dr. Darcie Goodman Collins, TRPA Executive
Director Julie Regan, E. Clement
“Clem” Shute Jr. and Placer County Supervisor and TRPA Governing Board member Cindy Gustafson.
Photo courtesy of Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
Cleaning
Continued from A1
for and restored by an advanced team. “The last thing we want to do is hurt anything we came up here to help.”
Demonstrating the cleaning technique using “a lot of water” and D/2 cleaning solution, Roberts first gently scraped a marble headstone with a plastic scraper and then soaked it using a pump sprayer. There’s no running water at Greenwood Cemetery so Roberts and his wife Michele Martin filled nearly three dozen buckets full of water and trucked them out to the site. Using gentle brushes and the D/2, the white marble started to come back to life.
Before teams headed off to headstones of their own, Roberts reiterated, “How much water?”
“A lot,” everyone replied.
Mother and daughter team Carrie
Arrest Continued from A1
and Tai Southerland, 14, picked up where Roberts left off at the White family marker. The White family ran a brewery in Greenwood, according to information provided by Save the Graves. Louis and Caroline “Cora”
Birch White had three children who died just days apart, likely of a disease, in December 1879, the marker notes.
Tai said she really wanted to participate in the headstone cleaning event after learning about the opportunity. She and her mom, who also placed flags on veterans’ graves this past Memorial Day, are part of the National Charity League in El Dorado Hills, which had several volunteers on site Aug. 9.
“You feel like you’re showing respect to people of the past,” Carrie shared, adding that seeing a stone go from dingy to readable and mostly
are disturbing and upsetting. We are told there is no evidence or indication of involvement with FCUSD students,” the statement reads. “We want to assure our public that the safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our top priority,
clean is very gratifying.
Ashley Douglas and her children Taylor, 15, and Tucker, 12, of El Dorado Hills, also enjoyed the cleaning process. “This is very satisfying,” Ashley said, “and the location is beautiful.”
Ashley and Taylor worked on the nearly unreadable headstone of Hermann Haiz, who died in 1887, while Tucker tackled the grime on the Lee marker. Alexander and Mary Lee operated Lee’s American Exchange Hotel in Greenwood in the later 1800s, according to Save the Graves information. Alexander died of the Russian flu epidemic at age 47 in 1890, making Mary a widow for the third time.
Boys Team Charity of El Dorado Hills participants Jonathan Marz and his sons Ben, 17, and Jon, 12, worked on a newer plot.
and appreciate the close partnership we have with local law enforcement.”
EDSO officials have not released any information about the known victim(s) and continue to investigate as it is unknown if
“Selling
this amazing team!” -Michael Beck
Jonathan said he and his boys thought headstone cleaning was an interesting volunteer option. “It’s a little history, a little adventure and a good opportunity to give back,” he explained.
The next opportunity to give back and scrub a piece of history comes Saturday, Sept. 20, at Placerville Union Cemetery on Bee Street, 9 a.m. to noon. History buffs and those interested in El Dorado County’s influential characters should also mark their calendars for the Save the Graves 2025 — Women of Character event at Placerville Union Cemetery, where actors dressed in period garb will share enthralling stories of some of the region’s most remarkable women. For more information about volunteering or Save the Graves events visit the nonprofit’s website at savethegraveseldorado.org.
O’Donnell had any additional victims. Anyone who thinks they might have additional information related to this investigation is asked to contact Det. Gurrola at (530) 642-4720 or gurrolaa@edso.org.
Mountain Democrat photos by Noel Stack
Left, National Charity League, Boys Team Charity and other volunteers listen to Mike Roberts, center, share a little history about the Greenwood Pioneer Cemetery before headstone cleaning work began on Aug 9. At right, the Marz family of El Dorado Hills tackles two headstones in need of a little TLC in Greenwood.
OPINION
California Matters
With Kamala Harris out, who will emerge as frontrunner in California governor’s race?
Kamala Harris’ penchant for strings of abstruse
verbiage — popularly known as word salads — was one of several reasons her presidential campaign failed last year. Her tendency was on display again when she recently announced she would not run for California governor after making other candidates, political media and voters wait for months for her decision. Harris bowed out of the 2026 race in a written statement, saying, “I look forward to getting back out and listening to the American people, helping elect Democrats across the nation who will fight fearlessly, and sharing more details in the months ahead about my own plans.
“As we look ahead, we must be willing to pursue change through new methods and fresh thinking — committed to our same values and principles, but not bound by the same playbook,” she added.
A day later, Harris continued her parade of vague statements during a softball interview with late night talk show host Steven Colbert, declaring the American system of government was broken. Pressed mildly to explain, Harris responded, “Well, but it’s also evident, isn’t it? But it doesn’t mean we give up.”
Whatever persuaded Harris not to seek the governorship, her announcement finally allows those who want the job to shift into a higher gear. Had she run, several of the hopefuls would probably have dropped out.
With her out of the picture, the field remains crowded without a clear frontrunner.
“None of these candidates start out with statewide name recognition,” Garry South, a veteran Democratic strategist, told the Los Angeles Times.
That said, there does appear to be two fairly distinct levels of candidacy: Democrats with genuine shots at winning versus those who face an uphill struggle to be taken seriously.
At the moment, the higher tier includes Katie Porter, a former Orange County congresswoman who fell short in a U.S. Senate bid last year; Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, who has substantial private wealth and is backed by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (Note: she backed out last week); and Antonio Villaraigosa, the former mayor of Los Angeles.
The lower tier includes Xavier Becerra, a former state attorney general and Biden cabinet member; Toni Atkins, the former president pro tem of the state Senate; state schools Superintendent Tony
Letters to the Editor
County stonewalls health reform
EDITOR:
El Dorado County faces a $20 million budget shortfall and leadership continues to ignore one of the most obvious, costsaving reforms available: switching to CalPERS for employee health insurance. Our analysis, echoed now by multiple public employee unions, shows the county could save over $10 million annually — without cutting benefits or reducing plan choices.
So why won’t they even study it?
Instead of engaging in honest discussion, the county’s Human Resources Department — with the support of the Chief Administrative O ce — has stonewalled all progress. Unions recently sent a letter requesting transparency, cost comparisons and a seat at the table. The response? Vague promises, no timeline and an explicit refusal to include labor representatives in meetings with CalPERS.
That’s not caution. That’s obstruction.
The Alliant/Prism plan currently in place was pushed by former Assistant CAO Kim Kerr — who later went to work for Prism. That revolving
door alone should have triggered an independent review. Instead, HR and the CAO’s o ce have provided no justification for sticking with one of the most expensive and restrictive health plans in the region.
The consequences are real:
• Employees in South Lake Tahoe can’t access Kaiser and face limited Blue Shield options. Some drive hours for care; others delay treatment.
• Qualified professionals are leaving for neighboring counties with better, cheaper coverage.
• Taxpayers are footing the bill for inflated admin costs and a broker-driven system that lacks transparency or competition.
Meanwhile, dozens of counties across California use CalPERS successfully — o ering broader coverage and saving millions. El Dorado’s refusal to even consider it looks less like oversight and more like deliberate protection of the status quo.
It’s time for the Board of Supervisors to act:
• Order a formal cost-benefit analysis of CalPERS.
• Require union participation in future
Guest Column
When an allegedly civilized world genuflects to Hamas
As the governments of the U.K., Canada and France announce their intent to recognize a Palestinian state, I recall the words of C.S. Lewis, so aptly quoted by President Ronald Reagan in his famous “evil empire” speech:
“The greatest evil is not done now ... in those sordid ‘dens of crime’ that Dickens loved to paint. It is ... not even done in concentration camps and labor camps. In those we see its final result. But it is conceived and ordered, moved, seconded, carried and minuted in clear, carpeted, warmed and well-lighted o ces, by quiet men with white collars and cut fingernails and smooth-shaven cheeks who do not need to raise their voice.”
Evil celebrates in a world that
carries all the pretense of civilization but has long abandoned any sense that principle is relevant or that indeed recognizes there exists any objective evil or good.
The most recent Hamas depravity is a video of a malnourished Israeli hostage digging his own grave. For Hamas, they already have achieved great victories. After invading Israel 22 months ago, committing atrocities and murdering 1,200 and taking 250 hostages, they have managed to hold Israel and the world at bay, unleashing waves of antisemitism in Europe and the U.S. and bringing major world leaders to speak in favor of a Palestinian state.
One major part of President Donald
Trump’s platform that brought him victory last year was a promise to purge our country of the many millions who crossed our borders and live in our country illegally.
Suppose we had an incident like what Israel has su ered through.
The equivalent of 1,200 murdered in Israel is over 44,000 Americans. Suppose they, like what Israel su ered through, were not just murdered but violently raped and sexually mutilated.
Would we negotiate with these creatures? Would their demands touch sympathetic chords amongst our population? We hear what Trump has to say about those who have violated our borders to come here to work. Can we even imagine what he
would say about those who committed atrocities against our population?
Or could we even imagine granting them sovereignty next to us knowing their great dream is that we are eliminated?
After the Oct. 7, 2023, attack and atrocities, U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres rationalized it, saying it “did not happen in a vacuum” but that the “Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of su ocating occupation.”
The ignorance is astounding. It was the U.N. that approved in 1947 a partitioning into a Jewish state and a Palestinian state. The Jews agreed and the Arabs rejected it and then
STAR PARKER
The Israelis would have to be crazy to concede autonomy some half-hour drive to the center of their country to a Palestinian state with a history of terror.
DAN WALTERS ■ See WALTERS, page A7
Thurmond and former state Controller Betty Yee.
What about Republicans?
Riverside Sheriff Chad Bianco and former Fox News host Steve Hilton are running, but the chances of a GOP win next year are infinitesimal. However, were the Democratic field to remain large, fragmenting the Democratic vote, a Republican could finish second in the primary and win a spot on the general election ballot, essentially guaranteeing the Democratic nominee an easy win. That’s what happened last year when Democrat Adam Schiff indirectly helped Republican Steve
Letters Continued from A6 meetings.
• Demand a public presentation comparing plans.
• Ask HR and the CAO, on the record: why the years of delay? County employees deserve fairness. Taxpayers deserve fiscal responsibility. What they’re getting instead is a bureaucracy more interested in protecting a past insider deal than serving the public.
If leadership refuses to change the plan, perhaps it’s time to change the people protecting it.
LEE TANNENBAUM President, El Dorado County Taxpayers Association
Garvey place second in the U.S. Senate primary, thereby foregoing a general election duel with Porter. When a clear Democratic frontrunner emerges in next year’s campaign for governor, the other Democrats will be competing for second place in the primary and a spot on the November ballot. Meanwhile, another potential candidate could change the post-Harris dynamics: Los Angeles businessman Rick Caruso, a Republican-turnedDemocrat who lost the mayor’s race in 2022 and is reportedly weighing either another mayoralty bid
Anarchy or order?
EDITOR:
Make no mistake. Unchecked “mostly peaceful” protests in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn., resulted in $500 million in damage. Damage which the Twin Cities have not, after five years, recovered from. I have personally witnessed this fact.
Axios estimates insured losses from those “mostly peaceful protests” to be close to or exceeding $2 billion in 2,000 U.S. cities including Sacramento, Seattle, San Francisco, Portland and L.A. This figure does not include the many losses incurred to businesses and property owners who were
next year, challenging incumbent Karen Bass, or a shot at the governorship.
Caruso is very wealthy and could draw heavy support from California’s business community, particularly if he were to survive the primary and face a liberal Democrat such as Porter. We waited for months to learn whether Harris would run. Now we’re waiting for Caruso. Dan Walters is a journalist and author who writes for CALmatters.org, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.
underinsured or uninsured.
Not included in the toll, are the 15 people who died during that unrest.
As well, the businesses which were impacted will not recover for years due to the economic impact caused by the resulting destruction and blight that remains in the aftermath. Cordoned off empty lots, boarded up buildings and businesses and burned out buildings and businesses — I witnessed the damage firsthand two months ago.
Businesses like Smoke In The Pit, whose owners Dwight and Ivy Alexander have suffered tremendous losses because people will not frequent the area of the nearby George Floyd memorial intersection (still blocked off after more than five years) and are hindered by the illegal street closures tolerated by the city.
The surrounding population avoids these areas.
Studies show the economic damages sustained during and after the 1992 Rodney King riots produced $1 billion in property damage, $3.8 billion in economic loss and a loss of $125 million in tax revenue.
Look it up!
Before you criticize Trump, go visit the areas hit by this senseless rioting, burning, looting and killing.
As I said to my long time friend and denier in Benicia, you can’t sit in your safe little neighborhood and pass judgement because the only way you will be shocked into a sober reality is to witness the destruction firsthand in your community or others.
The rights of those who are “offended,” no matter their beliefs, should not impinge on law-abiding and innocent citizens
Trump was protecting life, liberty and property belonging to law-abiding citizens, additionally protecting federal property which belongs to us all.
Anarchy and destruction or order and preservation?
Which message will it be, John Reay?
GARY ROSS Placerville
Announcements
AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com
AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net
10018 For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Thursday, August 14, 2025
AMERICAN LEGION POST 119 welcomes Veterans and guests to attend our monthly membership dinner and meeting the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Legionpost119.org
CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS
CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.
El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net
PLAY CRIBBAGE Join the Gold Country Cribbers 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452. We Play - We Teach - We Have Fun. Wednesdays 4:00 PM. Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/ DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see
edcdems.org for more information. GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance, call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. 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. Addiction or Relationship problem? Call 530 231-7728 our free counseling can help you. Positive Realism, 3430 Robin Ln., Cameron Park. Meet first and third Wednesday of every month, 7pm. Come and enjoy a paid lunch with the Retired Public Employees Association (RPEA) for CalPERS retirees and spouses.The meetings are held at 11:30 AM on May 19, July 21, September 15 and November 17, 2025 at Denny’s (3446 Coach Lane) Cameron Park. Call 530 919 7515 for programs and information.
SENIOR PEER COUNSELING Seniors 55 and over who are grieving, depressed or having issues related to aging can meet one-on-one with a caring senior, professionally supervised and trained to listen and encourage. Call (530)621-6304 to leave a message and get started.
TAXPAYERS ASSOCIATION OF EL DORADO COUNTY Our mission is to educate the public on tax issues that affect them. Our meetings are held every Monday morning from 7:30 to 8:30 at Denny’s Restaurant, Fair Lane Drive, Placerville. Meetings are open to the public. For more information call Louis (530) 622-6763. We are a non-partisan organization.
Cox strikes for first Placerville Speedway win of season
Gary Thomas Placerville Speedway
Clarksburg’s Justyn Cox, Oakley’s Nick Baldwin, Auburn’s Ray Trimble and Lotus’ Shawn Whitney snagged Placerville Speedway victories on Saturday during Red Hawk Resort + Casino Night.
Cox ended up leading flag to flag in the Thompson’s Family of Dealerships Winged 360 Sprint Car finale aboard the Berco Redwood No. 42x mount.
It marked his initial triumph of the season, and the 13th of his Placerville Speedway Winged 360 career, giving him sole possession of 14th all-time. Extra money was on the line for the top three finishers in the Aug. 9 race in memory of Don London, who racers and fans paid tribute to in opening ceremonies.
The 25-lap Winged Sprint Car finale took a total of five attempts to complete one lap. When things finally got going, Cox moved out front and scooted away, while the action behind him turned out to be particularly entertaining.
Several drivers fought it out including championship contender Tony Gomes, who did exactly what he needed to do in the battle for the title. The Modesto competitor moved into third on lap 13 and then snagged second a few laps from the finish.
The runner up result gives Gomes a three-point lead atop the standings heading into the Forni-Humphreys Classic championship finale on Sept. 13.
Placerville’s Shane Hopkins motored his way from 12th to third to earn the Hard Charger Award, with Auburn’s Andy Forsberg and Sacramento’s Austin Wood rounding out the top five.
It was a marvelous rebound for Wood, who went to the rear at one point after being in a turn four collision. His charge back forward keeps him just three markers behind Gomes going into the finale. Completing the top 10 in the feature were Cole Schroeder, Dylan Bloomfield, Chance Grasty, Kenny Wanderstadt and Steel Powell.
The Red Hawk Resort + Casino Pure Stock feature saw Placerville’s Tyler Lightfoot jump out front and set a quick pace over the early stages. Point leader Baldwin carved his way into second after not too long and began to hound the leader.
Lightfoot had captured the Carnett Clash during the previous week and looked to fend off Baldwin to make it back-to-back wins in the division. With just a handful of laps remaining however, Lightfoot slowed with issues down the back stretch.
Baldwin had nowhere to go and contacted the rear of the No. 23j machine but was able to continue.
Following that the six-time Placerville Speedway champion cruised away to collect his 38th career Pure Stock win, putting him one shy of tying Dan Jinkerson.
Kevin Jinkerson, Ryan Peter, Michael Murphy and Colton Arbogast finished second through fifth respectively.
The Nor-Cal Dwarf Car Association
put on a tremendous show in the main event, during what could be described as an instant classic. Multiple different leaders and side-byside racing was prevalent during the 20-lapper.
Whitney moved out front at the waving of the Ed Entz green flag, with the action behind him as hot as the blistering summer weather during the day. Several movers and shakers were seen as positions changed regularly.
Lincoln’s Dylan Shrum then marched to the front with he and Whitney putting on a show for the fans on hand. The pair split a lapped car with eight laps remaining, but Whitney got sideways and stalled to draw a caution.
After restarting at the tail Whitney proceeded to blast all the way back to the front and challenge Shrum over the final circuits.
The thrilling finish saw Whitney beat out Shrum by 0.002 seconds at the scoring loop. Ben Wiesz, Brenden Shrum and Brandon Aylesworth completed the top five. The Dwarf Cars also went home with extra money in memory of Don London.
The Kings Meats Ltd. Late Model main event was all about Trimble, who snagged the win over Tyler Lightfoot, Chris Mcginnis and Rod Oliver.
Placerville Speedway returns to action this coming Saturday, Aug. 16, with the 49er Gold Rush Classic featuring Kubota High Limit Racing and BCRA Lightning Sprints. Tickets can be purchased at placervillespeedway.com.
Tahoe Rim Trail Association quickly hits fundraising goal
LAKE TAHOE — The Tahoe Rim Trail is thrilled to announce that it has hit its $15,000 fundraising goal for Raise the Rim just seven days into August. Raise the Rim is the TRTA’s annual peer-to-
peer fundraising campaign that mobilizes trail lovers to hike, bike, run or ride in support of the Tahoe Rim Trail. Funds raised directly support trail maintenance, education programs, youth backcountry camps and long-term stewardship of the 174-mile loop that spans the ridges of the Tahoe Basin.
“This early success is a testament to how much people care about the Tahoe Rim Trail,” said Lindsey Schultz, executive director of the TRTA.
“We’re grateful for every mile logged, every dollar raised and every person who has stepped up to support the trail we all love!”
While the original goal has been met, the campaign is far from over! Raise the Rim runs through Aug. 31, and the TRTA is encouraging more people to get involved, log miles and fundraise to help push beyond the $15,000 mark. Participants are also eligible for weekly prize drawings just for participating, making it the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the trail and support a cause that protects the TRT.
“How much higher can we Raise the Rim?” Schultz added. “Every additional dollar raised this month helps us protect and maintain the trail for future generations.”
Participants can still sign up, join a team or donate at tahoerimtrail.org/raise-the-rim.
About the Tahoe Rim Trail Association
The Tahoe Rim Trail Association is a nonprofit organization founded in 1981 to plan, build, and maintain the now 174-mile Tahoe Rim Trail. Through stewardship, education and community engagement, the TRTA works to ensure the trail remains a sustainable and accessible resource for all who seek adventure, connection, and solace in the outdoors. For more information visit tahoerimtrail.org.
Courtesy photos
Justyn Cox celebrates his flag-to-flag victory at Placerville Speedway Saturday night.
Shawn Whitney in No. 15 and Dylan Shrum in No. 31 jockey for position in the Aug. 9 Dwarf Car race on Placerville Speedway’s track.
Mobile spay, neuter is coming this month
El Dorado County Humane Society News release
The El Dorado County Humane Society is o ering SNIP Mobile Spay and Neuter on Aug. 26 & 27. The organization receives many phone calls from people who are on long wait lists to get their dog or cat spayed or neutered.
Text or call (510) 591-3874 for appointment information. It may take
a couple of days for a response as the team is actively running the clinic all week at di erent locations. Visit the El Dorado County Humane Society Facebook page for more information.
The SNIP (Spay Neuter Imperative Project) Bus is a nonprofit, low-cost mobile spay and neuter clinic. The bus works to actively prevent the su ering and death of unwanted animals due to overpopulation. The bus is independently funded through generous sponsors.
PLACERVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT’S CRIME LOG
The following information was taken from PPD reports:
July 28
4:41 a.m. Battery was reported at the fairgrounds on Placerville Drive.
2:45 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Main Street.
3:01 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a gas station on Placerville Drive.
11:05 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a gas station on Placerville Drive.
July 29
5:30 a.m. Assault with a deadly weapon was reported on Main Street.
8:47 a.m. Vandalism was reported at a park on Benham Street.
9:11 a.m. Trespassing was reported at a business on Baco Drive.
1:36 p.m. Vandalism was reported on Spring Street.
2:59 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a restaurant on Main Street. An arrest was made.
7:25 p.m. A possible prowler was reported at an apartment complex on Cold Springs Road.
11:38 p.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported at the hospital on Marshall Road.
July 30
1:48 a.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported on Mosquito Road.
9:03 a.m. Petty theft was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive.
Sentences Continued from A1
circumstances of Benson’s death. Max, a student from Davis who had recently enrolled at Guiding Hands in El Dorado Hills, was restrained in a prone position for more than 90 minutes in 2018. Witnesses testified that he had stopped resisting long before the restraint ended, during which time he vomited and urinated on himself.
Court testimony indicated the school nurse did not respond to calls for assistance for 10 minutes and paramedics were not called until 25 minutes after Max was found unconscious. He was transported to UC Davis Medical Center, where he died the following day.
Investigations by the California Department of Education concluded that Guiding Hands sta had violated state rules on student restraint by using excessive and unnecessary force. The CDE suspended the school’s certification in the weeks following Benson’s death and the campus in the EDH Business Park closed permanently in 2019.
Benson’s death inspired Senate Bill 483, also known as Max Benson’s Law, which bans the use of prone (face-down) restraint in all California schools. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the bill into law in January 2024.
The three defendants were indicted in 2022 after a grand jury review. Legal proceedings were repeatedly delayed
Parker Continued from A6
attacked Israel in 1948 when the State of Israel was declared. The Arabs have not given Israel a day of peace since. In 2000, President Bill Clinton sat in Camp David with then-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. Arafat was o ered a state on what Hillary Clinton described as 96% of the territory they then occupied plus another 4% to be conferred by the Israelis. Arafat turned it down. According to Hillary Clinton, he rejected it out of fear he would be killed.
The Palestinians had their chance. It’s gone. The Israelis would have to be crazy to concede autonomy some half-hour drive to the center of their country to a Palestinian state with a history of terror. There are some 50 majority-Muslim
COMICS
■ SHOE by Jeff MacNelly
6:53 p.m. A person allegedly drunk in public was reported at a grocery store on Placerville Drive. An arrest was made. 11:37 p.m. Petty theft was reported on Lincoln Street.
July 31
11:32 a.m. O cers booked into jail a person suspected of vandalism, burglary, assault with a rearm on person, DUI and carrying a loaded rearm on Turner Street. They were listed in custody.
4:59 p.m. Battery was reported on Canal Street.
7:24 p.m. Petty theft was reported at a gas station on Placerville Drive.
Aug. 1
8:07 a.m. Petty theft was reported at an apartment complex on Cold Springs Road.
8:29 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Paci c Street.
8:47 a.m. Vandalism was reported on Manor Drive.
Aug.2
11:54 a.m. Battery was reported at a school on Canal Street.
1:42 p.m. Assault with a deadly weapon was reported at a library on Fair Lane.
5:09 p.m. Battery was reported at a restaurant on Broadway.
Aug. 3
12:24 p.m. Trespassing was reported at the library on Fair Lane.
5:28 p.m. Petty theft was reported on Hiden Springs Circle.
6:39 p.m. Vandalism was reported at an apartment complex on Cold Srpings Road.
until May 2025, when the women entered their pleas. Wohlwend’s plea to involuntary manslaughter carried a potential prison sentence, but the plea agreement allowed her to serve probation instead. Keller and Meyers pleaded to reduced misdemeanor charges.
When the case came before Ralphs for sentencing in June, the courtroom was filled to capacity with community members and supporters of Benson’s family. During that hearing, Dustin Collier, an attorney representing the family in a separate civil case, delivered a detailed victim impact statement condemning the plea agreements.
Collier described the defendants’ actions as tantamount to making themselves Benson’s “judge, jury and executioner” and criticized what he called “an unbelievable slap on the wrist” after “seven years waiting for justice.”
Following the statement, Ralphs said he had not previously reviewed the extensive grand jury evidence and decided to delay sentencing until he could fully examine the case file. He cautioned that if he rejected the plea agreements, the matter could proceed to trial.
Friday’s acceptance of the pleas closes the criminal prosecution, but a civil lawsuit filed by Benson’s family remains pending.
countries in the world. There is one Jewish state. For the Arabs, this is one too many. Is there a solution? Of course there is.
Palestinians can be given economic freedom to live their lives freely and as they choose. They don’t need political autonomy.
But no solution will be reached as long as those who pretend to represent the civilized world give credibility to depraved murderers.
Trump should call on all the world to demand that the terrorists immediately release the hostages and unconditionally surrender.
This is the answer.
Star Parker is founder of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education. Her recent book, “What Is the CURE for America?” is now available.
■ TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter
■ RUBES by Leigh Rubin
■ SPEED BUMP by Dave Coverly
ARIES (March 21-April 19). It’s safe to let go of anxious overthinking and focus on what you can control right now. Show up, give your best and move forward. Don’t spiral. Don’t xate. Just handle what’s in front of you.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). You have conscious goals about love, success and virtue — and then there are subconscious aims that could con ict, like seeking approval, avoiding discomfort or chasing status. Where’s the motivational misalignment? Self-honesty gives you the agency to course correct.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Now the territory feels unfamiliar. You might get turned around, but in doing so, you stumble into serendipity. Shifts in perspective as delicious as this don’t come every day. Fresh eyes equal new possibilities.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). It’s easy to be mad at those who re ect endlessly about making a di erence and don’t actually help anyone else. Empathy demands more than just performance. The one doing hard, practical, daily emotional labor with no audience will give help that improves. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Your charisma doesn’t quit, and you don’t even have to think about it. At this point, it’s ingrained. You don’t chase attention; you design it. You’re in rare form — keeping intrigue high without saying too much. The slow drip of self-reveal keeps people on the edge of their seats.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). There’s a cost to waiting. Things may be easier later — but not everything should be easy. Decide now. Deciding is power. You’re dealing in a part of life that is best served raw, real, awkward
and quick.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You may ub a note here and there, but these are not mistakes. You are learning the instrument, re ning the song, practicing how to be fully yourself. Also, it’s OK to take rests and let silence set up the next refrain.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Haircuts, clothes, style... it can all be genuine expression — or protective disguise, depending on how it’s wielded. Today brings a chance to see yourself more clearly. What are you saying without words? SAGITTARIUS
to you.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Your creativity is coming in hot, and you’re fast on your feet. It’s not about having all good ideas; it’s more a matter of saying, acting out or recording the ones that come to
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NEWS, IN THE KNOW
Learn the form and function of drawing a portrait
‘When you start with a portrait and try to find pure form by abstracting more and more, you must end up with an egg.’ —Pablo Picasso
ell, so says Picasso. In portraiture, there are certainly two points of view — but hopefully, not ending up with the Picasso ending.
And that’s just why Gerry Litwin will be joining the Placerville Arts Association as presenter at the Monday, Aug. 18 meeting to make sure that your creative “portraiture” doesn’t end up with egg all over your face.
The public is invited to join PAA from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the Placerville Senior Center, 937 Spring St. There will be refreshments and meet ‘n greet time at around 2:30 p.m. after which PAA artists are invited to share an artwork they’ve created with the theme portraits and figures. A great opportunity to see ‘non-egg’ portraits.
Litwin will be giving an interactive presentation on placement of facial features in portrait drawing.
Can’t draw a straight line? No problem. Bring to the meeting: a pencil, eraser, 11 x 14 sketch pad or larger (but not smaller) and a straightedge (ruler or drawing triangle). Attendees will be drawing together. Note: drawing paper will be provided for guests.
Series at the El Dorado Hills Town Center from 7-9 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
Aug. 15
Placerville Arts Association will host a Paint Out in Happy Valley, Somerset from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information visit placervillearts.com.
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host the Summer Sock Hop Senior Luncheon at the CSD gym, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org. The Sierra Renaissance Society presents “American Inspirations: Where Music and Art Meet” by Keith Atwater, 1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. Admission free for members; public invited to attend two meetings for free. The Sierra Renaissance Society of El Dorado County is dedicated
Litwin is a late bloomer as an artist. In junior high, she took an art class and checked off “art” as a possibility in her life. It was in her 70s that she took an art class with her granddaughter that the world of art opened up for her. Not long after that bonding experience, Litwin took other art classes, and today, after 10 years, is not just an artist, but an accomplished, talented artist who is teaching others to be the same. As much as Litwin desires to be a daily painter, life happenings keep getting in the way. So it has been an off and on journey these past 10 years, but the goal of a daily painting is still there. Art books, art videos and classes, online and in person, have broadened her experience and knowledge in this world of portraiture.
Litwin paints in oils and has painted a range of subject matter, but portraiture remains her first love. This past fall she took a portrait and figure drawing class from Patris, a Sacramento artist.
Litwin is currently taking a year-long online class “Lets Face It 2025” from Kara Bullock’s Art School. She looks forward to sharing her expertise in portraiture.
It’s Placerville Art Association’s mission to promote the creative work of its members, provide opportunities for sharing ideas among artists and inviting public interest through a variety of visual arts events. New members are accepted all year For more information visit: placervillearts.com. Follow PAA on Facebook at facebook.com/Placerville-ArtsAssociation.
“Love of Velour” by Gerry Litwin
Courtesy photo
Gerry Litwin discovered a love of art with her granddaughter and never looked back.
Join the public art committee
Arts and Culture El Dorado
Arts and Culture El Dorado, in partnership with the city of Placerville, has announced the formation of the city’s first-ever Public Art Committee — a new initiative dedicated to enriching Placerville’s public spaces through the power of creative expression.
Community members are now invited to apply for a seat at the table and help shape the future of public art in Placerville.
The PAC will serve as an advisory body to the Placerville City Council, reviewing proposals and recommending public art projects throughout the city. While the time commitment will be minimal, the impact will be meaningful — each project supported by the PAC will contribute to Placerville’s visual and cultural identity.
Arts and Culture El Dorado will serve as a non-voting member of the committee and provide staffing and administrative support. All meetings will be open to the public and held on an as-needed basis.
The PAC will operate under the principles outlined in the Placerville Public Art Plan, which emphasizes the importance of “telling all the stories” of the community —
ensuring that Placerville’s public art reflects its full cultural, historical and creative diversity.
The seven member committee will include:
Three community members passionate about public art in Placerville
• One representative from the El Dorado County Historical Society
• One design professional (e.g., architect or landscape architect)
• One arts professional (e.g., curator, conservator, or art historian)
• One actively working visual artist
Members will serve four-year terms and must reside within the Placerville city limits.
This is a unique opportunity to be part of Placerville’s cultural growth and help shape a more vibrant and inclusive public landscape.
The application deadline is Aug. 31. To apply for the committee visit artsandcultureeldorado.org/publicart-committee-application.
Paper applications are also available for pickup and drop-off at the Switchboard Gallery, 525 Main St. Placerville. For questions or more information contact Nicki Bennett public art coordinator at nicki@ artsandcultureeldorado.org.
ARC offers a bevy
American River Conservancy News release
TBeloved educator returns to Schnell
News release
Schnell Elementary School welcomed back a familiar and trusted face this fall as Chris Tillisch takes the helm as the school’s new principal. After spending the past three years serving as a Teacher on Special Assignment at Markham Middle School, Tillisch is returning to the place he called home for more than a decade.
Tillisch previously taught at Schnell for 11 years, where he built a strong reputation as a caring educator with a deep commitment to student success.
Known for his studentcentered approach and dedication to creating a safe, supportive, and academically rigorous environment, Tillisch’s return has been met with excitement from staff, students and families alike.
“I’m really honored
to have the chance to return to the Schnell community as the principal after teaching here for years,” Tillisch said. “Louisiana Schnell School holds a special place in my heart and I can tell you from experience, along with anyone who has ever been a teacher, staff or student at Schnell, that when you’re a Bobcat you’re part of a family.”
During his time at Markham Middle School, Tillisch expanded his leadership skills and worked closely with students and staff to enhance learning experiences. His time as a TOSA allowed him to develop innovative strategies to support academic achievement — skills he now brings back to Schnell.
“Chris truly cares about every student who walks onto campus,” said Superintendent Eric Bonniksen. “He holds high expectations for academic excellence,
but always leads with heart and enthusiasm in everything that he does.” As the new school year begins, Tillisch is focused on building strong relationships, supporting teachers and fostering a culture of Bobcat Pride that makes Schnell Elementary a place where every student can thrive.
“Being part of the Schnell School community again feels like coming home,” Tillisch said. “Together, we’re going to do what the Schnell family always does, and that’s grow together, connect with one another and create opportunities for success within every student. We’re gonna put a spotlight on a school culture that is deserving of its own star in the sky.”
Louisiana Schnell Elementary is part of the Placerville Union School District. To learn more visit pusdk8.us/o/ lses.
of fall inspired events, workshops and more
he American River Conservancy offers a slew of arts events, tours, hikes, workshops and more lined up for the fall season. All programs require online registration and are subject to change, No dogs will be allowed unless otherwise stated. To register for an event visit arconservancy. org/event. A detailed email will be sent after reservation.
Book club: “Is A River Alive?” by Robert Macfarlane
Sept. 4 and 18, 7-8:30 p.m.
Join ARC for a 2-series discussion book club. “Is A River Alive?” at its heart is a single, transformative idea: that rivers are not mere matter for human use but living beings — who should be recognized as such in both imagination and law. Inspired by the activists, artists and lawmakers of the young ‘Rights of Nature’ movement, Macfarlane takes the reader on an exhilarating exploration of the past, present and futures of this ancient, urgent concept. “Is a River Alive?” flows like water from the mountains to the sea, over three major journeys.
The first is to northern Ecuador, where a miraculous cloud-forest and its rivers are threatened with destruction by gold mining. The second is to the wounded rivers, creeks and lagoons of southern India, where a desperate battle to save the lives of these waterbodies is under way. The third is to north-eastern Quebec, where a spectacular wild river — the Mutehekau or Magpie — is being defended from death by damming in a river-rights campaign. Braiding together these journeys is the life story of the fragile chalk stream who rises a mile from Macfarlane’s house and flows through his own years and days.
Passionate, immersive and revelatory, “Is a River Alive?” is at once Macfarlane’s most personal and most political book to date. It is a book that will open hearts, spark debates and challenge perspectives. Lit throughout by other minds and voices, it invites us radically to reimagine not only rivers but also life itself. At the center of this vital, beautiful book is the recognition that our fate flows with that of rivers — and always has. Mature 15-year-olds to adults welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
GPS detox: navigate without a phone Sept. 6, 2-4 p.m.
Nature is always making a map for us, and the land is full of clues and signs, though most have been trained out of this awareness by digital tech. Attendees will learn techniques for reading the landscape, expanding awareness and amplifying perception used by wildlife trackers to forage and navigate. If you've ever wondered about how humans survived and thrived in wild environments or questioned how to keep yourself from getting lost without using GPS, this talk will give you more knowledge and the confidence to safely wander off the beaten path. Jessica Carew Kraft is a California naturalist, wild food forager and author of “Why We Need to Be Wild: One Woman's Quest for Ancient Human Answers to 21st Century Problems” (Sourcebooks, 2023). Responsible 10-year-olds to adults welcome. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
Fundamentals of Sogetsu Ikebana, classic flower arranging
Sept. 7, Oct. 19, and Nov. 16, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Instructor Yasmin Spiegel is a “Sensei“ (teacher) in the Sogetsu school of Ikebana: Japanese flower arranging. She is at home with both traditional Sogetsu forms and more modern sculptural arrangements. Spiegel has provided demonstrations and taught classes in Sogetsu at Wakamatsu Farms, the Sacramento Home and Garden Show, Davis Flower Arrangers, the Sacramento Floral Arrangers Guild and Ikebana International. Ages 8 and over with adult supervision. Meeting location: Gold Hill/ Placerville area.
Sept. 7 — Sunflowers and Rough Horsetail
Oct. 19 — Fruiting plants
Nov. 16 — Cornucopia in a basket
Process acorns into flour
Sept. 13, 9-11 a.m.
Last fall was a mast year for the oaks here in the foothills. Let's gather together to prepare and enjoy acorns — a superfood that native peoples have valued for generations. Acorns are nutritious, shelf stable and, surprise, delicious. Bring your curiosity and open your mind to the possibilities of this abundant and free wild food source. Attendees will learn how to choose quality acorns, how to dry, crack and prepare these tree nuts for eating, then sample some prepared acorn foods. Laura Schmitz is an ARC supporter and now a certified California Naturalist and plant lover. She loves to forage for choice wild edibles and to teach these skills to others. Ages 9 and over welcome. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
A spice rack as a medicine chest
Sept. 14, 1-3 p.m.
In this class Candis Cantin will help attendees understand common spices as potent herbal remedies. You will learn how to make teas, honey blends, oils, tinctures and poultices. Also, the benefits of herbal baths will be covered, as well as how various herbs can be used for their aromas for calming and sleep. Cantin has over 40 years practical experience as an herbalist, herbal and nutritional counselor and teacher of holistic lifestyle principles. She has owned and directed the EverGreen Herb Garden and School of Integrative Herbology located in the Sierra foothills, where there are extensive organic botanical gardens to view. Responsible 10-year-olds and older are welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
Moonlight mountain bike ride
Oct 6, 7-8:30 p.m.
Enjoy this moonlit adventure with experienced rider Tom Judy. Judy will take this group on an easy-paced 1-1.5-hour ride through Cronan Ranch. Cronan is a perfect place to view the night sky under a full moon. Judy has 37 years of mountain biking experience, and most of it (23 years) riding and leading mountain bike tours on the Divide. Mike Bean, who will be riding sweep, is also an avid biker who has helped build miles of trails on ARCacquired land. Meeting location: Pilot Hill area. Ages 15 and over welcome.
Wakamatsu open farm day
Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Placer Land Trust and American River Conservancy are partnering up for this unique Open Farm Day at Wakamatsu Farm. Come early for a guided bird walk (8-10 a.m.) or arrive later for Japanese history, haikus (poetry), lectures, origami, Ikebana demonstrations and more. Wakamatsu is the site of the first Japanese colony in America. The day may include a self-guided walking tour of Wakamatsu Farm, a stroll to Okei-san’s 1871 gravesite and Charles Graner's original 1850’s farmhouse or enjoy a stroll around the lake on the 1.5-mile AWD wheelchair-accessible trail. On-site interpreters can share information and answer questions about Wakamatsu Farm's human and natural history. Bring a picnic and chair to sit and relax. Amenities are limited, so plan for rugged outdoor leisure. Steady rain or temperatures over 100 degrees will cancel. “Lessons from Manzanar” interactive presentation: We can learn from past mistakes, will take place at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Hear about the history, experience and impact of Japanese American incarceration at Manzanar in the 1940s and engage in a conversation about its relevance today. Followed by time for discussion and Q&A.
A night of wine and stars
Oct 18, 7-11 p.m.
Enjoy wine with placid views of the fall night sky. Constellations and mythologies will be explained. Telescopes will reveal stellar wonders led by majestic Saturn, the distant planet Neptune, the famous Ring Nebula, the Andromeda Galaxy, globular clusters, the Perseus Double Cluster and glorious colored double stars. If attendees are lucky, they might spot the “Intergalactic Voyager” as it passes through the inner solar system. Wine sold by the glass or bottle provided by David Girard Vineyards. Quiet, well-behaved attendees of all ages are welcome. Meeting location: Gold Hill/ Placerville area.
Tracks, scat and all that!
Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Hone your skills as a nature detective and learn how to identify an area’s wildlife residents by the
Enjoy enrichment concerts
OLSOM — Folsom
Lake Symphony will kick off the fall season with “Symphony al Fresco” at the EDH Town Center amphitheater — gather near the water and revel in a festive array of symphonic hits. This free community enrichment concert features highlights from “Wicked,” Superman March, The Best of Beatles medley, excerpts from Pictures at an Exhibition and more.
Coming in 2026
Young Artists recital Jan. 11, 2 p.m.
A recital featuring the winners of the Young Artist Competition, open to musicians ages 8–18. Hear the amazing talent of these rising musical stars at the Harris Center in Folsom — you’ll be able to say you “heard them when.”
Young Person’s Guide and
Family Concert
March 14, 11 a.m.
Treat the entire family to an amazing performance by this season’s Young Artist Competition Winner at the Harris Center in Folsom. Explore the instrumental forces of the symphony in Britten’s captivating Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra. The popular instrument “petting zoo” will take place in the lobby, stage 2 and stage 3. Children can try out various instruments of the orchestra under the guidance of symphony musicians. An educational and fun experience for children and adults alike.
Twilight Delight
May 16, 8 p.m.
Get your cozy spot on the green, join in honoring our Armed Forces and tap your toes to popular upbeat selections. Bring your own chairs. No tickets are necessary. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.
signs they leave behind. As people wander through natural areas, they often don’t see the wildlife that lives there. They usually know we’re coming long before we can see them, and many of the animals are nocturnal so we don’t see them during our daytime activities. Join husband and wife team David Rosen and Jeanette Wrysinski and learn how to become better nature detectives. Investigate a variety of methods to discover what critters live around you, even if you can’t see the animals themselves. Attendees will investigate animal tracks, trails, fur, feathers, pellets, scat (aka poop) and other signs of wildlife on the walk. Attendees will check several track stations and discuss how to set up a track station in your own yard. Attendees will also retrieve a remote game camera and see if it captured any photos of animals passing by. Attendees will practice identifying animal tracks using field guides and everybody will be able to make a plaster cast of an animal track to take home with them. Rosen has worked as a naturalist and environmental educator for over 40 years, the last half of that time as a naturalist and guide for Sacramento Splash. Wrysinski has worked with
Winning one act plays announced
WordWave News release
LAKE TAHOE — Lake Tahoe’s WordWave, a one-act play competition celebrating upcoming playwrights, returns to Valhalla Tahoe Sept. 6, at 7 p.m. with a new set of winning plays. Produced as a staged reading, audiences will meet two scientists who immediately clash over deeply held beliefs, disappointments and misunderstandings in Richard Fouts’ “A Change of Heart;”
A bookstore owner receiving a serious diagnosis that takes him on a journey of personal discovery in Richard Manely’s “Five’s a Big Deal;” and a family vacation that spins into chaos with the help of quirky tour guide in Phil Olson’s “The Tour Guide.”
“We have been gratified that WordWave has not only been embraced by our audiences, but it has shone a light on new and upcoming playwrights,” said Diana Evans, co-founder of WordWave.
Each of the three winning playwrights is awarded a $500 cash prize and provided with two nights of accommodation to attend the staged reading of their work, directed and produced at the historic Valhalla Boathouse Theatre. The Boathouse performance begins at 7 p.m., followed
health and wellness. On this 1-mile walk around the lake attendees will have an opportunity to slow down, quiet their mind and experience the natural surroundings through their senses and take in the infinite wonders of nature. Along the way attendees will be guided through a series of carefully crafted invitations allowing them to explore and engage their senses of sight, sound, scent and touch and promote a deeper connection with nature. Susan Reed is a certified nature and forest therapy guide with the Association for Nature and Forest Therapy. Reed takes her passion for hiking and backpacking and combines this with a long career in corporate health management and well-being to bring people to a connection with the natural world. Adults only. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
Herbal medicine making Oct. 25 noon to 2 p.m.
Many people don’t know what to do with the herbs they have collected or purchased. In this class herbalist Candis Cantin will teach attendees how to make herbal honey blends, pastes, tinctures, oils and salves. Cantin has over 40 years practical experience as an herbalist, herbal and nutritional counselor and teacher of holistic lifestyle principles. She has owned and directed the EverGreen Herb Garden and School of Integrative Herbology located in the Sierra foothills, where there are extensive organic botanical gardens to view. Responsible 12 year olds and older are welcome. Meeting location:
Capturing
Wakamatsu: a poetry walk/
Taylor Graham, El Dorado County’s first Poet Laureate, and award-winning Sacramento-area poet Katy Brown will lead an exploration of the historic farmhouse, barn and surroundings at Wakamatsu farm, then ask participants to write a poem inspired by what they’ve experienced. Anyone who wishes to may share their poems with the group and ARC. Children 8 and over are welcome with adult supervision. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville
by a meet-the-writers’ wine and dessert reception in the Grand Hall, sponsored by The Cork and More.
Fouts is an award-winning playwright with past productions in New York, San Francisco and Washington D.C., Manely moved from the commercial writing business to writing plays 16 years ago, and he’s been prolific, completing 14 fulllength plays and six one-acts that have been produced off-Broadway in New York. Olson has had 600 productions in 45 states and 11 countries for his work. His play, “Love … or Best Offer,” was recently adapted into a feature screenplay that has finished filming.
The performance will take place Sept. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Valhalla Boathouse Theatre. Immediately following the performance, a Writer’s Wine & Dessert Reception will be held in the Grand Hall and sponsored by Cork & More. Audience members are invited to join for a complimentary glass of wine, dessert and a meet-and-greet with the writers.
WordWave Lake Tahoe is a signature event of Valhalla Tahoe, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Tahoe’s cultural heritage and inspiring new artistic voices. For tickets and more information visit valhallatahoe.com/ wordwave.
of the ingredients and then make their own batch of fire cider to take home. Jessica Carew Kraft is a California naturalist, wild food forager and author of “Why We Need to Be Wild: One Woman's Quest for Ancient Human Answers to 21st Century Problems” (Sourcebooks, 2023). Responsible 10 year olds and over are welcome. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
Nature journaling exploration
Nov. 8, 1-4 p.m.
Attention nature journal enthusiasts. Fall is the perfect time of year to slow down and bring the changing of the seasons into focus. An opportunity to connect, explore, learn and share by observing seasonal changes, wildlife activity and the sensory experiences of autumn at Wakamatsu Farm. Shannon Rodrian is a fellow nature lover and organizer of the El Dorado County Nature Journaling Club. The EDCNJ Club is inspired by her introduction to nature journaling as part of the California Naturalist course taught at American River Conservancy. Her hope in creating the group is to continue to connect, explore, learn and share love of nature and the Sierra Foothills through nature journaling. Curious 12 year olds and over are welcome. Rain postpones to Nov. 9. Meeting location: Placerville/Gold Hill area.
Intro to pottery and wheel throwing
Nov. 2-4 p.m. and 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Dive into the world of pottery with these exciting classes. Perfect for beginners and those with little experience, attendees will master essential techniques like coil and pinch methods, learn the art of score and slip work and discover the joy of creating pottery on a wheel. Unleash your imagination in a fun, relaxed and supportive environment. Local artist Luke Haley started working with clay as a teen and continued his exploration through college. He has worked in and out of open studios for years and in 2018 opened his first home studio. Haley will kiln-fire your creation to be picked up at a later date. Ages 12 and over are welcome. Meeting location: Placerville area.
Pine needle basket class
Nov. 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Come look for and learn about wild clays near the American River. Attendees will go out to forage wild clay, investigate some of the different soil types in the area, learn about clay processing, discuss indigenous clay uses in the area and discover soil pigments for watercolor painting. This event is led by Jacqueline Royer, an environmental scientist for the Lahontan Water Board and a natural arts enthusiast who is excited to share a bit of her knowledge. Be prepared for a short walk along the river and a bit of digging. Rain or shine. Ages 10 and over are welcome. Meeting location TBD:
In this class, attendees will learn how to prepare fire cider, first popularized by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar in the 1970s. The tonic contains apple cider vinegar, honey, onion, garlic, herbs and other ingredients that may help support health and wellness. Attendees will learn about the properties
LIVE MUSIC AND WINE
Come learn the technique of coiling and how to start a basket out of pine needles in this one-day workshop led by basket-maker and ARC member, Nettie Fox. This class is appropriate for all levels, beginning through advanced. All materials will be provided, and space is limited. Attendees will receive information on collecting, storing and dyeing pine needles. Learn all about materials, embellishments and a little history on the art of pine needle basket-making. Additional supplies will be available for purchase. Ages 12 and over are welcome, with adult supervision. Meeting location: Gold Hill/Placerville area.
Fall bird walk at Knickerbocker Creek
Nov. 15, 7:30 a.m. to noon
Tim and Angela Jackson will lead this fall walk to see where songbirds, raptors and water birds can be found. Tim maintains a website (eldoradobirds. com) on birdwatching in El Dorado County. Angela is a local writer and photographer. This is a slowpaced, easy to moderate hike of 3-4 miles. Quiet, mature 8-year-olds and over are welcome. Meeting location: Cool area.
Courtesy photo
Local songstress Tamra Godey will be playing original hip-swaying blues, soulful Americana, and upbeat crowd favorites at Fenton Harriott Vineyards, 120 Jacquier Court, Placerville. The music will take place from 3:306:30 p.m.
tamragodey.com.
with four courses by chef Lisa Scott. This intimate event will take place on Myka Estates’ patio. For tickets and more information visit mykaestates.com.
Kenny Metcalf as Elton and the Early Years Band will perform at 8 p.m. at Sutter Creek Theatre in Sutter Creek. For tickets and more information call (916) 425-0077 or visit suttercreektheatre.com.
Visit the Barbera Wine Experience, celebrating National Barbera Day at the Folsom Community Center from 4-7 p.m. For more information visit BarberaFestival.com.
Aug. 16
Join American River Conservancy for Leash up and let’s hike from 9:30-11:30 a.m. For more information or to register visit arconservancy.org/event.
The 29th annual Valhalla Renaissance Faire will take place 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Tahoe Valley Campground, and continues Aug. 17 and Aug. 23-24. For ticket and more information visit valhallafaire.com.
Ed Wilson will play at the Placerville Speedway with percussionist Dante Montes from 4-6 p.m.
Mellowood Vineyard, 2979 Mellowood Drive in Fair Play, presents Grillin’ in the Grove from noon to 5 p.m. Enjoy KK’s famous Kenyan tri tip barbecue served straight from the grill in the Oak Grove with delicious tasty sides and great Mellowood wine. Relax and listen to the
sounds of local favorite Tom Power, plus games and awesome vibes. For more information and reservations call (916) 261-7512.
Tamra Godey will play original hip-swaying blues, soulful Americana, and upbeat crowd favorites at Fenton Harriott Vineyards in Placerville from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
Join American River Conservancy for live music with Red Dirt Ruckus, beverages and tasty food featuring Wani’s Tacos at historical Wakamatsu Farm in Placerville 6-9 p.m. This concert series supports ARC’s Resilience Reserve helping to manage, repair and restore its protected properties. For more information visit bit.ly/ARCc4c2025.
California Museum in Sacramento presents a Volunteer Open House from 10-11 a.m. and an optional New Volunteer Orientation from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information visit californiamuseum.org.
Face in a Book in El Dorado Hills presents a Book Signing with the author of “Sins of the Father” James L’Etoile from 3-5 p.m. For more information visit getyourfaceinabook.com.
Aug. 17
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host Yoga in the Park at 9 a.m. at Promontory Park. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd.org.
The Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series presents Glass Animals from 7-10 p.m. For more information visit tinyurl.com/yfvbt3xz.
Aug. 19
Aug. 20
The
Rotarian of the year honored for 21 years of dedicated service
Gary Clarke, a dedicated Rotarian for 21 years, has been named Rotarian of the Year. Clarke first joined the San Ramon Rotary Club in July 2004. Over the years, he served in nearly every leadership role, including club president for the 2011-12 term. After relocating to Shingle Springs, he became a member of the Cameron Park club in May 2021, following in the footsteps of his late father, C. Robert Clarke, a beloved past district governor who also sponsored his membership.
Since joining the Cameron Park Rotary, Clarke has become a driving force
behind many of the club’s community service initiatives. His leadership, reliability and positive spirit are evident in everything he does, from organizing major fundraising events to delivering bicycles for the club’s long-standing bicycle project.
“Whenever Gary is asked to help, his answer is always the same, ‘Yes,’” said outgoing club president Cathy Dugan.
“He sets an example for all of us with his energy, generosity and unwavering commitment to service.”
The Rotary Club of Cameron Park congratulates Clarke on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his outstanding contributions.
The Valhalla Tahoe boathouse theatre and outdoor lawn presents Raul Midon from 7:30-10 p.m. For more information visit valhallatahoe.com..
Now
Light Opera Theatre of Sacramento presents “Dracula; or the town of Sibiu” through Aug. 17. For tickets and more information visit lightoperasacramento.org.
The Gallery at 48 Natoma presents Jyotsna
21
Bhamidipati visual storyteller through Aug. 14. For more information call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us/government/parks-recreation/ facilities/gallery-at-48-natoma.
Arts and Culture El Dorado presents High Side, Whitewater El Dorado through Aug. 17 at the Switchboard Gallery in Placerville. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.
The Olde Coloma Theatre presents “The Best Little Tea House in the West” ... Or ... “When a Deed
is Done!” through Aug. 24. *Note the show is rated R, age restrictions apply. For tickets and more information go to oldecolomatheatre.com.
California Stage in Sacramento presents “Eleanor Rigby” through Aug. 24. For tickets and more information visit calstage.org.
Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Young Frankenstein” through Aug. 24. For tickets and more information visit sutterstreettheatre.com.
Remembrances of Coloma and Lotus” by Betty Sederquist at Marco’s Café in Lotus through the end of summer. For more information visit marcoscafelotus.com.
The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival presents “Twelfth Night” through Aug. 23 and “Peter and the Starcatcher” through Aug. 24. For tickets and more information visit laketahoeshakespeare.com.
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Marvin Lipofsky Blows Glass through Aug. 17; Reform to Restoration, French Art from Louis XVI to Louis XVIII from the Horvitz Collection through Sept. 14; Arts, Letters, and Power, Van Dyck and the Portrait Print through Oct. 12; Cara and Diego Romero, Tales of Futures Past through Oct. 12; Black & Gold – Traditional and Contemporary Japanese and Chinese Ceramics through Dec. 31, 2025; and Pueblo Pottery – Native American Pottery and Sculpture through Dec. 31, 2030. For more information visit crockerart.org.
The Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series presents live music on the main stage every Friday and Saturday (plus additional weekdays) evenings from 5:45-9:15 p.m. through Labor Day. For more information visit tinyurl.com/3h88rmpb.
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento hosts Art Rx, docent led discussions for those with chronic pain and their friends, family and caregivers, second and fourth Saturdays at 11 a.m.; Meet Me at the Museum. tours designed for visitors with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, using art observation and conversation to foster engagement and social interaction, second Fridays at 11 a.m.; and Highly Descriptive Tours, 50-minute tours with detailed verbal descriptions and guided discussion for blind or low-vision individuals and their guests, fourth Fridays at 1 p.m. For more information visit crockerart.org.
The Master Gardener public office is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 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 baggie or a picture. Can’t come in person? Call (530) 621-5512 and leave a voicemail or email mgeldorado@ucanr.edu.
The Mills Station Arts and Culture Center in Rancho Cordova hosts Live Model Drawing classes every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. For more information visit rcmacc.org.
The Mom Walk Sip and Stroll meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Amphitheater at the El Dorado Hills Town Center. It’s a great way to get active with other local moms.
(Please
I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 07/16/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/23,
A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (see section 14411 ET SEQ., Business and Professions Code) 7/23, 7/30, 8/6, 8/13 14886 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. FB2025-0666 The following person(s) is/are
Join Valhalla Tahoe for Yoga on the Lawn every Tuesday & Thursday at 8 a.m. through August 28. Start your day with a breath of fresh Tahoe air and a grounding yoga practice surrounded by pines. All levels welcome. For more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
Check out “Our Beautiful Valley: Photographic
Marco’s Café in Lotus hosts a Family Friendly Open Mic Night Thursdays from 6-8:30 p.m. For more information visit marcoscafelotus.com. Check out Placerville Cars and Coffee every Saturday, 7-9 a.m. at Lions Park. Hang out with other car enthusiasts.
Registrant’s Name & Mailing Address: Sean Kennedy, 2827 Rancheria Drive, Shingle Springs, CA 95682 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 06/27/2025 Signature of Registrant: /s/ Sean Kennedy SEAN KENNEDY I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00).) This statement filed with the county clerk of El Dorado County on 06/30/2025 NOTICE-IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS
Courtesy photo
After
years of service Gary Clarke is honored as the Rotarian of the year.
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