The annual Business Awards presented at our luncheon on June 19 were created to recognize and promote the vital role local businesses play in El Dorado County’s economy and quality of life. Each year, numerous businesses are nominated in four categories, making selection increasingly challenging as the community grows and thrives. The Chamber is proud to support and celebrate our vibrant business community.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – Arnolds for Awards
Recognizing demonstrated excellence in the areas of growth, marketing and management.
START-UP BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – Cappelli Wine
Recognizing Small Business that has been in existence for only 1-3 years and has built a sold foundation for moving into the future.
HOME BASED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – Rides with Rob
Recognizing a successful business that operates a minimum of 80% of the time from a personal residence and has overcome the unique challenges inherent to a home-based business.
COMMUNITY SERVICE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR – Madrone Tree Hill
Honoring a business that has demonstrated a commitment to supporting our community. This year’s recipient isn’t just overwhelmingly worthy but is also a critical part of our community that steps up to support non-profits and many others throughout our county.
KEY TO THE CHAMBER
Dear Chamber Members,
Last week our Chamber, as part of the United Chamber Advocacy Network, asked you to participate in an Action Alert to defeat two bad policy proposals in the California Legislature.
The first bill was AB 1331, which would drastically limit how employers can use workplace surveillance tools, imposing blanket prohibitions that threaten business operations, workplace safety, and compliance. This bill’s overbroad language applies to nearly every business and technology used to protect employees, customers, and property. AB 1331 will create major compliance headaches, increase legal exposure, and undermine your ability to maintain a safe and secure workplace.
Nancy Murphy was recognized for 22 years of volunteer service with the County Chamber at our June Luncheon. Thank you Nancy for being a KEY part of our team!
forward for the remainder of 2025. It is important that we honor the good faith PAGA compromise that we negotiated last year, partly to dimmish the threat of employer lawsuits which have totaled nearly $10B in recent years.
We also asked you to oppose SB 310, which would roll back hard-won reforms to the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) by creating a new private right of action for wage and hour penalties. If passed, SB 310 would make it easier for lawyers to sue local businesses, inflate settlement costs, and increase compliance headaches—hurting our region’s job creators and economy.
We have good news to report on both fronts, thanks in large part to grassroots efforts from business owners like you. SB 310 was held on the Senate floor, and is not moving
AB 1331 did move forward, but only after the author agreed to remove the “private right of action” which allowed citizen lawsuits against employers, removing provisions related to “disabling” safety devices, and removing provisions that would have applied the bill to the workers’ homes, among others. Despite the substantial amendments which weakened the bill, a number of Democrats still voted no, leading to a very close roll call. We will continue to chip away at this bill as it moves through the Senate.
We know that your time is valuable, so we carefully choose the bills we ask members to engage upon. We are tracking dozens of pieces of legislation, both supporting and opposing, working with our advocates and other partners in Sacramento. However, then the grassroots voice matters, lending your voice to our efforts can help make the difference, and we wanted to thank you for engaging when we reach out.
Thank you for your participation and support of the Chamber mission!
We Reeled in a Keeper
When our friend Vern Pershing from the Art of Water volunteered to help get our fountain up and running, Jacob Martin — a passionate fishing enthusiast — saw the perfect opportunity to practice his casting in the pond. Just kidding! That fun photo was my idea. But the smile is all Jacob.
We’re thrilled to have this bright young entrepreneur on our team through the Golden Sierra Workforce program. At just 20 years old, Jacob already runs his own landscaping business and holds a real estate license. His drive, curiosity, and work ethic are truly inspiring. We have the great privilege of working alongside Jacob until the end of July, when his internship wraps up. Stop by the Chamber and say hello to this remarkable young man — you’ll be glad you did!
Laurel Brent-Bumb , CEO El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce
The Arts: July means it’s fair time in California
F
airs are the heartbeats of our communities — where traditions thrive, memories are made and the simple joys of life are celebrated. Summer in California brings with it the vibrant tapestry of fairs. The aroma of kettle corn mingles with the laughter of children and the thrill of rides complements the melodies of live music.
This July, two standout events — the Stanislaus County Fair and the California State Fair — invite families to enjoy festivities that blend nostalgia with new experiences.
Deep roots
The Stanislaus County Fair in Turlock, July 11-20, is celebrating its 113th year with all the charm of a classic hometown fair. With heritage trees shading the fairgrounds and a late-afternoon start time, the StanCoFair is a fun destination for all. New this year: the children’s Midway has been moved closer to the entrance gates, making it even more convenient for families with little ones.
While the fair keeps traditions alive through 4-H and FFA exhibits, livestock shows and a demolition derby, it also adds new energy with interactive booths for kids, a brightly lit carnival midway and a live music lineup that spans genres. This year’s free-with-admission concerts feature Drake Milligan, Taking Back Sunday and LOCASH. Grandstand events like monster trucks,
Properly
prepared
for pepper season
The heat of summer in California is in full swing. We are in the height of the season for growing peppers. Hot as well as sweet peppers have been grown for thousands of years in Central and South America. Did you know that the Aztecs had at least seven different words for hot pepper or that the Incas used peppers as currency?
Now, let’s change gears and think about the part of our country that produces maple syrup. It takes sunny, warm days and below-freezing nights to have the maple sap running. Native Americans used maple sugar as a source of food as well as a trading item. If we combine the wonders of our Northeast (maple syrup) and Southwest (peppers) we come up with a spectacular recipe from the Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving, 38th edition, 2024. Try this recipe over a block of cream cheese or spread on a hamburger (sop up the pickled juices into that bread).
Maple Pickled Jalapeños
Makes about 4 pint jars
• 2 ½ to 3 pounds jalapeño peppers, sliced*
• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
• 2 teaspoons black peppercorns
motocross and Tuff Trucks make it easy to find something fun around every corner.
For admission information, fair hours and more visit stancofair.com.
Big, bold & modern
Down the hill in Sacramento, the California State Fair runs July 11-27 at Cal Expo. This modern fair covers acres of entertainment, featuring a monorail, interactive exhibits and pop-up shade tents to help beat the summer heat.
New for 2025: the fair will open at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with Friday through Sunday hours remaining 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The fair closes at 8 p.m. on its final day, Sunday, July 27. This shift is in response to changing attendance patterns — and much like the Stanislaus County Fair, the California State Fair is becoming more of an evening fair. Organizers hope this will make for a cooler, more comfortable experience as the Delta breeze rolls in each night. This year marks the
Lewis UCCE
Food Preserver of El Dorado County
• 3 cups cider vinegar, at least 5% acidity
• 1 ½ cups water • 1 cup maple syrup Prepare boiling-water canner or atmospheric steam canner. Heat cleaned jars in canner until ready to use, do not boil (simmering water at 180 degrees F). Wash lids in warm soapy water and set aside with bands. Wash peppers under cold running water; drain. Cut stem and blossom ends off peppers. Cut peppers crosswise into onequarter-inch slices. Peel onion and remove root and stem ends. Cut onion crosswise into thin slices; separate slices into rings. Combine sugar, salt, mustard seeds, peppercorns, vinegar, water and maple syrup in a medium saucepan. Cook mixture over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for five minutes. Stir in peppers and onions; simmer for five minutes.
Pack hot vegetables into a hot jar, leaving one-half-inch headspace. Ladle the hot liquid over vegetables, keeping one-half-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and adjust
170th edition of the California State Fair — a tradition that began back in 1854. While the fair has seen pauses over the years, including a two-year hiatus during the pandemic, it returned in 2022 with renewed energy and continues to grow.
One notable change: horse racing is no longer part of the fair, following the racing industry’s decision to leave Northern California. But don’t worry; there’s still plenty of excitement and variety.
Fair food is half the fun, and this fair delivers in spades. Alongside the usual deep-fried delights, you’ll find international eats like birria tacos, Korean corn dogs,
Hawaiian barbecue and Thai tea floats. Culinary showcases include award-winning California wines, cheeses and olive oils, with tastings available for grown-ups.
The Toyota Concert Series features Ludacris, Dustin Lynch, Tesla, Bret Michaels and more. Concerts are included with admission, and reserved seating is available for those who want to be up close.
For admission information, fair hours and more details visit calexpostatefair.com.
Good to know Central Valley summers can be hot, so don’t forget the essentials: sunscreen, hats and water bottles. Both fairs offer
handicapped access, but heat can be a concern, especially for young children or older adults. Look for cooling stations and shaded seating areas to take a break when you need one.
As I mentioned earlier, the StanCoFair is an evening fair. It’s a great option for a weekend day trip or an overnight weekday getaway.
Turlock’s Fairfield Inn and Holiday Inn Express often offer special rates for fairgoers, so ask when making your reservation.
The California State Fair can get busy, especially on weekends. Weekday visits and early entry are great ways to beat both the crowds and the heat. Check online for the fair’s updated policy on
clear plastic purses and backpacks before you go; security rules may change year to year.
Fun included daily
In 2025 fairgoers want more than a day out; they want connection, culture, food, and fun. And that’s exactly what these two fairs offer. Whether you’re marveling at prizewinning produce or singing along to your favorite band, the Stanislaus County Fair and California State Fair promise something special for everyone. So grab your hat, your appetite and your sense of adventure. It’s fair time in California! Send your event for consideration in Susan’s column to slaird@ handywriting.com.
headspace, if necessary. Clean jar rim. Center lid on jar and adjust band to finger tight. Place the jar in the canner. Repeat until all jars are filled. Water must cover jars by at least one inch in boiling water canner or come to the base of the rack in a steam canner. Adjust heat to mediumhigh, cover canner, and bring water to a rolling boil in a boiling-water canner or until there’s a steady stream of steam coming from the steam canner. Start timing and process half-pint (or pint) jars: 15 minutes at 0 – 1,000 feet elevation, 20 minutes at 1,001 –3,000 feet, 25 minutes at 3,001 – 6,000 feet and 30 minutes at 6,001 – 8,000 feet. Turn off heat. For
boiling water canner, remove lid and let jars stand 5 minutes. For atmospheric steam canner, let canner sit undisturbed for three to five minutes, then remove lid. Remove jars and cool on a toweled surface 12-24 hours. Check lids for seal (they should not flex when center is pressed). Label, date, and store in a cool dark place.
*When cutting or seeding hot peppers, wear rubber gloves to prevent hands from being burned. For more information about UC Master Food Preservers visit ucanr.
Pixabay photo
Aztecs had at least seven words for hot pepper and Incas used peppers as currency.
Susan Laird The Arts
Courtesy photo
Summer smiles and sweet treats — a young fairgoer enjoys cotton candy near a lively midway game, surrounded by colorful prizes and classic carnival fun. From tasty fair food to hands-on activities and engaging exhibits, the Stanislaus County Fair and California State Fair serve up family-friendly fun for all ages.
Exhibit highlights Wayne Thiebaud’s self-described art theft
Wayne Thiebaud (1920–2021) became famous for his colorful paintings of American confections and buffets. He was also a self-described art “thief,” who openly drew ideas from and reinterpreted old and new European and American artworks.
An influential teacher at Sacramento Junior College and the University of California, Davis, Thiebaud never stopped learning. He believed that art history is a continuum that connects artists of the past, present and future. Highlighting work from across the beloved artist’s six-decade career, this exhibition features Thiebaud’s inventive reinterpretations and direct copies of famous artworks, as well as objects from his personal art collection that inspired him. Approximately 65 quintessential works by Thiebaud — including paintings of people (alone and together); still lives of cakes, tabletops and other ordinary objects; cityscapes featuring
soaring buildings; and mountain landscapes — offer an in-depth exploration of his work.
“I’m very influenced by the tradition of painting and not at all self-conscious about identifying my influences such as that or any other,” said Thiebaud. “I
approximately one-hour tour, wander around the 16 individual gardens at your own pace or ask docents for help and more information. May be closed for inclement weather or poor air quality; check before visiting: ucanr.edu/sites/EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden/. Parking permits are required, purchase a $2 permit at any kiosk. At the Sherwood Demonstration Garden, 6699 Campus Drive, Placerville.
Myka Estates and 1850 Wine Cellars, 3405 Carson Court in Placerville, is having a Weekend Concert and Cookout 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to celebrate the Fourth of July. The team is firing up the grill,
think sometimes it’s very conscious at the beginning, and sometimes it occurs to me in the middle or sometimes when I’m through with it.
Sometimes I’m all the way through with it, and someone will point out, ‘Well, that looks like Manet’s bullfighter
pouring the wine and turning up the tunes with a celebration not to be missed. Bobby Dickson Unchained Duo will be playing the sounds of Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings and more outlaw country classics from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For more information and to make a reservation call (530) 644-3474.
El Dorado Musical Theatre presents “Willy Wonka” July 5-13 at Harris Center Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.
The Tahoe Blue Event Center presents South Shore
pose,’ and I hadn’t even thought of it until then.”
One of the most important aspects of Thiebaud’s art practice was his passionate engagement with art history. A self-described art “thief,” Thiebaud openly drew ideas from and reinterpreted works by others. Some
appropriations are more apparent, referencing subjects or poses, while others are more subtle, capturing qualities like mood or meaning.
Showcasing Thiebaud’s deep appreciation for his fellow artists past and present, these reinterpretations reveal his perception that the
Showdown, car show at noon For tickets and more information visit tinyurl.com/yfsp8cf9.
The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival presents Peter and the Starcatcher,” at 7:30 p.m. and continues through Aug. 24. For tickets and more information visit laketahoeshakespeare.com.
Sacramento Shakespeare Festival presents “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” July 5-27. For tickets and more information visit sacramentoshakespeare. net.
July 6
Ed Wilson will play at Fenton Herriot Vineyards from 3-7 p.m.
The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival presents “Twelfth Night,” July 6 through through Aug. 23. For tickets and more information visit laketahoeshakespeare.com.
July 8
entire history of art was as relevant and inspiring as the most contemporary art.
One of These Nights – Songs of The Eagles will perform at the Live on the Boulevard Summer Concert Series at the El Dorado Hills Town Center from 7-9 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
July 11
The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host The HWY 50 Corridor Power Lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.
The Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series presents Cody Jinks from 7:30-10 p.m. For more information visit tinyurl.com/yfvbt3xz.
Broadway at Music Circus presents “West Side Story” at the UC Davis Health pavilion in Sacramento continuing through July 17. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.
Never A Dull Moment — a tribute to Rod Stewart 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.
Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Bloodmobile bus will be parked near the baseball fields at Community Park, 1021 Harvard Way. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM019 or call (877) 258-4825. Walkins will be accommodated if space allows. El Dorado Hills Genealogical Society will host its featured speaker Nancy Calhoun at 6 p.m. on Zoom. She will present “Shakin’ Out the Smiths: Tips on Researching a Common Surname.” Everyone is welcome to join on Zoom by notifying Pat Kriz at patkriz@earthlink.net no later than Monday, July 7.
EDHGS also invites anyone interested in genealogy to attend regular workshops on the fourth Tuesday each month at 6 p.m. at the El Dorado Hills Library.
July 9
The 36th annual American Century Championship, celebrity golf’s most prominent tournament of sports and entertainment superstars, takes to the fairways of Edgewood Tahoe, July 9-13 and the airwaves of NBC, Golf Channel and Peacock. For details on the clear bag policy, transportation, parking and entry details visit americancenturychampionship.com.
The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host Business Connections Mixer at Lindora at EDH Town Center from 5:30-7:30 p.m. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.
July 10
Ed Wilson will play at Arnolds for Awards in Shingle Springs from 4-7 p.m.
The CA State Fair will host Ludacris as part of the Toyota Concert Series on the Main Stage. The concert is free with general admission to the fair. Visit calexpostatefair.com/home-state-fair.
July 12
Ed Wilson will play at The Vine in El Dorado Hills 6-8 p.m.
July 13
The El Dorado Hills Community Services District will host Fitness in the Park at 9 a.m. at Blackstone Park. For more information visit eldoradohillscsd. org.
July 15
1850 Wine Cellars and Myka Estates will host the July 5th Barbecue and Cookout Independence Day Celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with live music from Bobby Dickson Unchained at Myka Estates at Apple Hill. For more information visit mykaestates.com.
Wayne Thiebaud: Art Comes from Art is on display at the Legion of Honor in Lincoln Park in San fransisco through Aug 17. For more information visit famsf.org.
Courtesy photo
Wayne Thiebaud: Art Comes from Art features over 65 of the artist’s quintessential works.
presents Eric Hill and Jonny Mojo for Taco Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. Stop by for some good food and good tunes. For more information call (530) 626-1091.
The Cameron Park Community Services District will host Cannonball Cinemas featuring “Moana 2” at the Cameron Park CSD Pool, 7-10 p.m. For more information visit cameronpark.org.
The Valhalla Tahoe boathouse theatre and outdoor lawn presents Jackie Venson from 7:30-10 p.m. For more information visit valhallatahoe.com.
July 17
SuperBad will perform at the Live on the Boulevard Summer Concert Series at El Dorado Hills Town Center from 7-9 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
Showroom entertainment at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe presents One Night of Queen at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information visit tinyurl. com/9c3db54t.
The CA State Fair will host Dustin Lynch as part of the Toyota Concert Series on the Main Stage. The concert is free with general admission to the fair. Visit calexpostatefair.com/home-state-fair.
Now
The Stage at Burke Junction presents “For the Love of Dog” through July 6. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke.com.
Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento presents Marvin Lipofsky Blows Glass through Aug. 17; 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 from 5:45-9:15 p.m. through Labor Day. For more information visit tinyurl.com/3h88rmpb. 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.
Marco’s Café in Lotus hosts a family friendly Open Mic Night Thursdays from 6-8:30
ARC to host overnight backpacking trip
— Picayune
at Talbot Creek. The hike will go up along the middle fork of the American River passing through an old growth forest. After a short crossing of the headwaters of the middle fork hikers will emerge into the Picayune Valley. In the valley hikers will explore waterfalls and pass through several alpine meadows. The group will camp at the upper end of the valley. After setting up camp they will hike up to the saddle and have views of the Granite Chief wilderness.
Hikers will bring their own backpacks with supplies and food. Bring a pair of water shoes. Well behaved dogs on a leash are welcome.
Hike difficulty is moderate with no steep elevation gains. The elevation reaches 6,300 ft. The round trip hike is a total of 16 miles. Age minimum is 12 years-old with backpacking experience. The meeting location will be in the Georgetown area. This is a free event. A detailed email will be sent after registration. Visit app.dvforms.net/api/ dv/qv71re.
PLYMOUTH
— Iron Hub introduces the Iron Hub Spirits brand with the launch of a handcrafted brandy by master distiller and winemaker Tom Jones and his son Spencer Jones.
(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 06/04/2025 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
Brandy boasts a centuries-old tradition in many historical wine country settings around the globe. Tom and Spencer crafted the brandy primarily from Iron Hub Winery’s estate-bottled sémillon wine using a continuous distillation still. This distillation process requires a high level of craftsmanship, resulting in remarkable smoothness and complexity in the brandy.
Unlike traditional cognacs, which are batch distilled by heating large volumes of wine, Tom’s innovative still distills a half gallon of wine per minute. Through continuous distillation, Tom efficiently extracts the hearts of the spirit from
the rough-tasting heads and tails. After the distillation process, the brandy ages for about four years in French oak wine barrels.
Iron Hub’s brandy features robust aromas of apricot, vanilla and caramel. Its deep amber color results from three to five years of aging in wine barrels. On the palate, it has a velvety texture with complex flavors in every sip. The apricot and butterscotch notes blend together, creating a pleasing depth of flavor. The smooth, long-lasting finish lingers, leaving a delightful impression.
Tom has distilled wine into spirits for more than 20 years, beginning at his previous winery. He is excited to announce his
Inaugural release at Iron Hub in Amador County.
“I appreciate the smooth, rich flavors in our brandy for enjoying in the evening,” Tom said. His frequent trips to the high country, where he discovered the old iron hub, involve sipping his brandy while relaxing by the campfire. Iron Hub Spirits can be enjoyed in the Tasting Room at Iron Hub Winery, 12500 Steiner Road in Plymouth, from Thursday through Monday between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. To book a tasting appointment for the premium wines and fine spirits visit ironhubwines.com/visit or call (209) 245-6307 for a reservation.
Courtesy photo
Volunteer Tom Dodson leads explorations of the Granite Chief Wilderness Area.
