Village Life/Cameron Park Life, Wednesday, February 22, 2024

Trojans for the win!

Squad brings home a national championship

Move over Chiefs, the Oak Ridge cheerleading squad captured a shiny trophy of their own Super Bowl Sunday — winning the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship.

“We’re very proud of this team’s hard work and resiliency,” Oak Ridge head cheerleading coach James Blank said. “They showed great character by dealing with adversity and overcoming some tough challenges right at crunch time.”

“We’re very proud of this team’s hard work and resiliency.”

Sixty-eight teams entered the competition at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, Fla., all hoping to cheer their way to the top of the Medium Varsity Division I category. Information shared with the media makes this win all the more amazing. Two weeks before the competition a cheer squad member su ered an injury, forcing Oak Ridge to alter plans. Rather than perform the routine they spent months working to perfect,

the Trojans spent those two weeks coming up with a new routine that was, according to judges, more than up to par for the competition.

The National High School Cheerleading Championship, produced by Universal Cheerleaders Association, is the pinnacle of cheerleading competitions for high school cheerleaders across the country. This year’s event hosted 1,183 teams across 34 states competing in multiple divisions.

— James Blank, head coach

Cheerleading teams are judged on their stunting and tumbling skills, crowd-leading ability and overall performance. Teams competed in Traditional Routine, Game Day and the newest division at the championship, Game Day Live, which allows cheer teams to perform with their school’s band members in a live performance setting and translate their traditions from the sidelines to the competition oor.

This isn’t the rst trophy Oak Ridge cheerleaders have brought home from the national competition. The team took second place in 2015 and rst place in 2020.

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

The latest El Dorado County League of Women Voters candidates featured District 1 Supervisor candidates Linda Campbell, Greg Ferrero and Margaret Fortune, all eyeing for the seat currently held by John Hidahl, who represents almost all of El Dorado Hills. The hopefuls took on a variety of issues concerning El Dorado Hills and the county at the packed EDH Community Services District pavilion Thursday evening. Hidahl is currently nishing out his term as supervisor this year.

In a race that has generated much voter interest, League coordinators say it was the most questions they have received for any candidate forum they have hosted.

First to introduce herself was Margaret Fortune, founder and CEO of 12 public charter schools called Fortune School, which serve more than 2,000 students and employ 460 teachers in Sacramento and

■ See DISTRICT 1 page A2

writer

El Dorado County District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo is looking to keep his seat this election cycle and is challenged by Chris Cockrell and Kevin McCarty leading up to the March primary election. During a supervisor candidate forum recently hosted by the El Dorado chapter of the League of Women Voters at the Cameron Park Community Center, District 2 residents were given the chance to hear candidates address issues concerning a ordable housing, veteran care, land use, the General Plan, homelessness and more.

Cockrell, an owner of Sam’s Town Cyclery in Shingle Springs, is a Cameron Park resident and a military veteran. In his opening remarks he said he wants to represent the people of his district as a community member.

“Myself and others see that we need some things done in our county that have not been done,” Cockrell said, addressing the crowd during the forum. “You folks have been at this for a long time

■ See DISTRICT 2 page A5

Courtesy photo

Oak Ridge High School’s varisty cheerleaders can hardly contain their joy after winning the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship Feb. 11.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Now

Aspiring El Dorado Roses applications are available. Candidate quali cations: is 60 years or older; has been a resident of El Dorado County for a minimum of 10 years; and has contributed volunteer services throughout her life. A candidate must be sponsored by a business, club, organization or an individual. The sponsor submits the application and pays an entry fee.

Both are due April 20 and need to be submitted to El Dorado Rose c/o El Dorado Rose Corporation, P.O. Box 282, Placerville, CA 95667. The entry fee covers admission to the Rose Ball for the candidate.

For more information call Diane Lehr at (530) 8452513.

El Dorado Musical Theatre presents Disney’s “High School Musical” through Feb. 25 at Harris Center for the Arts, 10 College Parkway in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Sutter Street Theatre presents “Twelve Dancing Princesses” through Feb. 25. For tickets and more details call (916) 3531001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

The Stage at Burke Junction in Cameron Park presents “Almost, Maine” through March 10. For tickets and more information visit stageatburke. com.

Imagination Theater on

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

District 1

San Bernanrdino areas with an emphasis on “closing the African American achievement,” its website states.

The education powerhouse also served eight years on the California State University Board of Trustees and has served on the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.

Fortune is also an elected member for the county Resource Conservation District. She has been an EDH resident for 10 years. Some of her campaign priorities include preserving open space, scal management, supporting children and families and providing a ordable housing for seniors.

“We are at a real turning point,” Fortune told the forum audience. “As we select new leadership for district one, the question is who is ready for that turning point?

“I want to continue to serve and what is important to me is open space and many of the issues that are important to you,” Fortune added.

Greg Ferrero, an EDH resident since 2007, boasts a 28-year career with the California Highway Patrol, including being

a commander of the CHP East Sacramento

o ce. He has also served as a commander for the California State Threat Assessment Center. A er retiring, he and his wife Rita opened Sierra Laundry which has two locations in El Dorado County. Ferrero has served on the county’s Department of Transportation Tra c Advisory Committee and the El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce Government Relations Committee. His campaign emphasis includes community public safety, responsible growth, making “wise decisions for the county” and “keeping El Dorado Hills a great place to live.”

“I am running for one reason and one reason only; to maintain the greatness of our county,” Ferrero said. “I do not want the issues, the policies, crime and homelessness that are impacting our big cities to come up into our county. We have an incredible county and I want to keep it that way.”

Linda Campbell has lived in El Dorado Hills since 2004. Campbell works for Oracle, a major global technology company,

Village Life

El

and local educators celebrated Lukas Klusty as the Lakeview Elementary School Student of the Year. Calling Lukas “the sweetest, kindest, most caring kid,” teacher Jenni Bazor teared up as she praised her hardworking student at Rotary’s Feb. 14 breakfast meeting.

“He’s consistently a kind person,” added Principal Laurisa Stuart. “He looks out for others.” Rescue Union School District Superintendent Jim Shoekmake said after speaking with Lukas and his family he’s encouraged and enthusiastic about the student’s generation. He thanked Lukas’ parents for raising an exceptional young man who is “super humble.”

Continued from A1

and has skills in data analysis, data center planning, cost savings and process improvements.

Her campaign focuses include upholding the General Plan, protecting open space, pushing to repair existing roads, prioritizing small businesses and supporting agricultural resources. She also will “enforce the county’s Transportation Element to minimize tra c impacts.” Campbell said she is running to be a person on the board who will “be doing the things that the people request (local) government to do as a representative.”

“The people want to have their voice heard,” Campbell said. “I’ve sat in on a lot of di erent meetings over the last few years where people are trying to get information out or try to get their elected o cials to act on things, and they are met with silence or no kind of response whatsoever.

“I think that (my) private sector perspective gives me an advantage going in and (looking) to do things di erently so we can

■ See DISTRICT 1, page A5

5007GreysonCreekDr,ElDoradoHills $3,277,043

3085LathamLane,ElDoradoHills $868,000

9042LongfordWay,ElDoradoHills $960,000

500MoonCircle#524,Folsom $425,000

8043MurciaWay,ElDoradoHills $925,000

203PicassoWay,Folsom $500,000

7127QuietwoodDr/4852SciaroniRd GrizzlyFlats$40,000

9705RimRockCircle,Loomis $2,300,000

201St.FrancisCt#93,ElDoradoHills $2,525,000

6266WesternSierraWy,ElDoradoHills $1,912,500

3188WillistonWay,ElDoradoHills $750,000

4814WinamacDrive,Sacramento $515,000

2660ViaFiori,ElDoradoHills $2,950,000

photo by Noel Stack The Rotary Club of

Dorado Hills

At left, Lukas, holding plaque, is joined by, from left, EDH Rotary President Scott Draper, dad Nick Klusty, sister Kali Klusty, Principal Stuart, teacher Bazor, mom Kristin Klusty and RUSD Superintendent Jim Shoemake.

2023

CRIB NOTES by Julie Samrick

And the Oscar goes to …

For the rst time in many years, I’ve seen every movie nominated for the Best Picture Oscar. This feat seems even more incredible now that the category allows for 10 lms. Just as I emphasize to students in my English classes, great stories consist of well-cra ed plots, yes, but characters are at the heart. They are interesting and relatable to audiences when they have many sides to them just like we do, when they are human. It’s worthwhile to get to know characters because they give us insight into people; they give us insight into life.

The thread that connects all 10 lms is their dynamic characters, but I’ve divided them into three more speci c categories.

First, we have the artistic movies, full of emotion, mostly simple in their productions, but they each

The right to earn a living in America is in danger. The latest U.S. Department of Labor Independent Contractor rule severely restricts the ability of American workers to practice their profession as they see t. America has been a land of opportunity because citizens are empowered to pursue happiness in their own way. This means being able to pursue your own calling; to be a maker, a builder, a creator; to take your God-given talents, nurture them with heart and soul and o er them to the world. In this way, the Biden administration’s radical new labor regulation is an attack on the very foundation of the American Dream. It is part of a concerted e ort to limit or eliminate the gig economy, freelancing, independent contracting, self-employment and alternate work arrangements

unfold like a well-written novel. “Anatomy of a Fall” is a double entendre, focusing on both a literal fall and that of a family. “The Holdovers” shows how much more there is to a grumpy prep school teacher and his arrogant student. “Past Lives” focuses on two people who haven’t seen each other since they were children, with the simmering question — what if? — woven throughout. “Poor Things” may have a little glitzier of a setting, but with much of it done in black and white it seems ordinary, but is anything but. The lm explores what it would be like to learn to do everything over again but in an adult body, from walking and talking and more scenes that made me blush with my 17-year-old daughter who saw it with me. I didn’t know much about it before

■ See SAMRICK, page A6

that entire careers are based on

Area teens spread love all the way to Shriners hospital

Julie Samrick Village Life corespondent

Two high school students found a way to show young patients love and support in the way of gifts and as many as 800 handmade valentines, making a very special delivery to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Sacramento on Feb.12.

Oak Ridge High School sophomore Aislynne Hartman and Ponderosa High School freshman Sophia Alonso had been planning to do something for children, particularly teenagers, in need since August.

“Valentine’s Day was always one of my favorite holidays in elementary school,” Aislynne told Village Life. “I always thought it was sad that kids in the hospital missed out on all the fun childhood holidays because they weren’t in school. My best friend, Sophia, and I wanted to find a simple and inexpensive way that kids could do something special for other kids. It started with just valentines, but then Shriners told us that teens often get overlooked during all their fundraisers, so we decided to expand our drive to collect items for teens.”

With the mission of “encouraging philanthropy among students in their community while focusing on the specific support of children’s charities,” Aislynne and Sophia have completed the application process for their nonprofit, Norcal Gift From the Heart Foundation. The girls spent all of winter break filling out paperwork, designing a logo and more. They also put together pre-made valentine packets for schools, including card materials and sample messages. Along with the hundreds of red, pink and white cards, emblazoned with stickers and uplifting messages, Aislynne and Sophia also presented 290 new toys, teen specific care items as well as $2,800 in new athletic and leisure apparel. The drive was made possible with the help of students from Marina Village Middle School and Holy Trinity School, among contributions and the participation of other schools and senior mobile home parks in the Sacramento area.

“By far we were overwhelmed by the genuine excitement and commitment that the students put into making heartfelt cards with really caring messages,” Aislynne shared. “So many of the students we talked to told us how making cards for others made them feel so good and sometimes helped them

get through tough days of their own. They were so thankful and appreciative and wanted to know how they could do more to help us next year.”

For more information, or to get involved, email Norcalgiftfromtheheart@gmail.com or visit the page on Instagram.

Youth-led Winter Boutique provides warm clothes for hundreds

Gabby Dailey & Tania Thomas

Hands4Hope – Youth Making a Difference

From October through December 2023, middle and high school youth participants with Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference planned and implemented the nonprofit’s 14th annual Warm and Fuzzy Drive and Winter Boutique, where they collected warm clothes and handmade blankets and distributed them to families in need to keep

them warm and dry for the winter. The effort provided clothing and blankets to more than 750 individuals.

Starting in early fall, youth Hands4Hope community engagement ambassadors worked with nine local elementary schools and 15 businesses to set up collection bins to gather new and gently used jackets, sweaters, pants, pajamas and other warm clothing. Through those efforts and additional direct donations, collections totaled 5,827

items with a value of more than $54,500.

One donor, Judy, hand-knitted 300 beanie hats to contribute to the effort. She wrote, “The world needs the commitment and energy of these young people to help make the world a better place for everyone. I am so grateful that an 80-year-old greatgrandma can be a part of what they are doing.”

In addition, Hands4Hope hosted its annual Blanket Making Party at Camerado Springs Middle School

in Cameron Park to make no-sew fleece blankets. Blankets made there by participants in Hands4Hope on-campus clubs and by participants at home resulted in a total of 123 handmade blankets to add to the distribution.

After years in El Dorado Hills, the Winter Boutique distribution facility moved to an empty office space donated by Aborn Powers in Cameron Park to provide a more convenient location for those served by the program.

The youth-led Winter Boutique Committee planned and coordinated all aspects of the space, from layout to processing and sorting the donated items. The youth leaders included Gabby Dailey, committee chair and logistics leader; Chloe Deiss, clothing logistics leader; Taylor Milbrath, layout and decor leader; Tania Thomas, marketing leader; and Addison Hunt, volunteer management coordinator. Additional subcommittee members were Hailey Harris, Addi Merrill, Alex Franzi, Tavian Gutierrez and Sylvia Zvereff. Kari Bunce, a former elementary school teacher, served as the committee’s adult mentor, with support from a previous adult mentor Madeleine Vadenais.

Two Hands4Hope staff members, Melissa Placek and Yoko Kono, also provided oversight and support.

pare items for distribution. In total, Winter Boutique offered 21 volunteer events that involved 95 youth and adult volunteers.

were, our community coming together and making new friends both on the committee and on setup/event days.”

Throughout the month of November, the committee held multiple events where volunteers worked to sort and count clothing items into various sizes and categories, and decorated the space to make it feel festive, including many handmade special touches. Sierra Laundry donated laundry services to pre-

During the six days the Winter Boutique opened in December, it served 148 referred families, representing 741 individuals who “shopped” for the warm clothing and items they needed. Partner agencies in Sacramento and El Dorado counties received the remaining items, further expanding the reach and impact of the Winter Boutique effort.

“I was nervous to be the committee chair because I have never been on a committee before, but I quickly realized that this is going to be such a fun project,” shared Dailey, an Oak Ridge High School junior. “I loved getting to see how grateful families

Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference is a nonprofit, youthdriven organization with the mission to inspire and empower youth in leadership and service. Hands4Hope offers hands-on education and community engagement opportunities to youth from K-12th grades through on-campus and after-school programs in Sacramento and El Dorado counties. Hands4Hope was selected as 2023 Nonprofit of the Year for California Senate District 4 represented by Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil. For more information visit hands4hopeyouth. org or call (916) 2947426.

Courtesy photo

Aislynne Hartman, left, and Sophia Alonso deliver valentines and other donations to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Sacramento.

Courtesy photo

Hands4Hope youth volunteers pose with some of the blankets made for the 2023 Warm and Fuzzy Drive and Winter Boutique.

District 1

reclaim our county,” she added. Village Life chose questions relating most to El Dorado Hills from the forum. The complete candidate forum can be viewed on the League of Women Voters’ Youtube channel at youtube. com/@leagueofwomenvotersofeldor7159 when it is published.

The General Plan will soon be entering its revision phase after 20 years. District 1 has seen the largest impact of growth. What would you keep and what do you think needs changing?

Campbell: “Over the years there have been a lot of changes made by other supervisors that have negatively impacted our area. I do think that we need to reevaluate some of the things that are going on, make sure that we have a voice and say what types of things we want to have — so dealing with zoning and land use. Beyond that, also making sure some of the other elements aren’t going to be overly restrictive on us. Some of the safety plan updates sound good but. in reality, if it’s coming and saying ‘you need to do this’ without any guarantee that it’s really going to protect us, then I think it puts an undue burden on us as taxpayers. I don’t think we should be implementing anything that’s going to potentially increase our taxes.”

Ferrero: “A couple of things I’d like to see changed (are included in) the Housing Element. The state is mandating a lot of requirements, bypassing local authority, and I wish we could change that but I don’t think it would be possible to do in the state of California. One other thing I’d like to increase or promote more is in our Parks and Recreation Element. It talks about stimulating tourism, and we have an incredible region on the Western Slope and our wineries, whitewater rafting and Apple Hill, and I would like to stimulate tourism and give people more options where they can spend the night and lodge on

District 2

the Western Slope of El Dorado.”

Fortune: “People around El Dorado Hills are understandably nervous about (rapid) development happening here. I think that it’s time for us to take a step back and as a community decide what our vision is. We have about 50,000 residents. A similarly situated community in terms of population would be the city of San Luis Obispo. The two cities that are in El Dorado County are South Lake Tahoe, which has 21,000 registered residents, and Placerville (with a population of) 11,000. So this is an ongoing concern and although it was the vision of the General Plan to have the growth happen here, now you have 40,000 or 50,000 residents who have a (different) point of view. I think the residents of El Dorado Hills, and all of District 1 are very smart. People are at the top of their professions and bring a lot of skills to the conversation. And I think that as we have the conversation about the next iteration of the General Plan, it’s going to be very important to engage the neighbors in a serious way.” Should El Dorado Hills become a city? Why or why not?

Ferrero: “My answer is, ‘I don’t know, how do you feel?’ It should be up to the voters. I see pros and cons to it. We would have more control over our local development and we would have a seat at SACOG, which is the board that pretty much allocates or defines how much and where growth is going to go, or expects it to grow in cities and counties. A couple of negatives would be revenue neutrality, and that’s how much we are going to have to make up and how much we’re going to have to pay the county as a city to make up for lost revenue that they are occurring. That could possibly result in an additional layer of bureaucracy.”

Fortune: “When you become a city, it’s like getting a divorce from the county; you got to pay alimony

and haven’t seen the change that you want and that’s why you’re here. I can’t be more sincere when I say I want an opportunity to represent each and everyone of you.”

McCarty, who has resided in Placerville since 2018, owns property in Somerset and is in the process of building a house and establishing a fruit and vegetable farm. McCarty works in business compliance with a background in project management, land use, regulatory compliance and government affairs. In the process of seeking out permits, he found that simple projects are hard to get done in the county, something he seeks to take on as a supervisor.

“I feel there is an opportunity for me to help this county to go in and fix the issues that we have so that we can resolve our housing crisis at a grassroots level by letting individual home and landowners engage their land and build so that we can actually have affordable housing units in this county without having to develop them all like Folsom,” McCarty said.

Turnboo is the incumbent looking to keep his seat for another four years. An eighth-generation resident of El Dorado County and former owner of George’s Pit Stop in El Dorado, he is hoping he can be instrumental in helping residents maintain the rural lifestyle. His has been an advocate for the residents of Grizzly Flat, who still struggle after the 2021 Caldor Fire burned nearly all of their community.

“I love the people that are here and around the county and I care about their concerns,” Turnboo said. “I have been fighting for all issues going on especially when it comes to Grizzly Flat, Cameron Park and El Dorado Hills.

Village Life selected questions from the Q&A portion of the candidate forum for this article. The complete candidate forum can be viewed on the League of Women Voters’ Youtube channel at youtube.com/@ leagueofwomenvotersofeldor7159.

What is your position regarding changing the General Plan to build hotels, a conference center and housing developments at the Bass Lake exit of Highway 50?

Cockrell: “If you talk to some of these land use attorneys that get involved with developers, they’ll tell you (they) need to engage them months, if not years early, to work these projects into the General Plan. We’re not living up to our housing numbers. We have had large business developments in the last couple of years that just all of a sudden popped up that we

and now the alimony payments will be much higher, and some people say that it would be fiscally imprudent to be a city. But what we’ve given up in not becoming a city is that we’ve got a five-member board in Placerville that makes land-use decisions for us. I think that our point of view would be more represented if we controlled our own land use. Going back to the previous question about the General Plan, I think that what is most important to a lot of people around here is land conservation, the sweeping landscapes, the beautiful recreation, the reasons that we moved to El Dorado Hills. The General Plan, if you’ve read it, really expresses this vision for our community. This is our opportunity since we’re not a city, a decision that was made in 2004, to revisit those.”

Campbell: “Personally, I’m not a proponent. If people voted to do that, as a supervisor, I certainly would not stand in the way. I would make sure that there was enough information so that everybody was aware of what the implications were for it. But some of the reasons why I’m not really for it … I liken it to some of the cities around us. Folsom is a great example. Folsom originally said, we’re not going to build south of the 50. A few boards later, there are buildings south of the 50. We have a little mini-city example in our CSD, and if anybody’s familiar with the CSD, that’s got some challenges. Challenges are going to be introduced, no matter what. Placerville and South Lake Tahoe are both incorporated cities in our county. Both of them have increased their sales tax rates because they’re trying to find ways to make revenue. So we can’t continue to live on property taxes, and still do things that we want within the government area. It’s going to be important to find out where we’re going to be able to source revenue from, and make sure it’s sustainable.”

What are your priorities in dealing

haven’t had necessarily proper notice for. Knowing a little bit about the project, I don’t know that it’s a good fit.”

McCarty: “I believe that if we’re going to significantly deviate from (the General Plan) that a project of that magnitude should go back to the voters who are otherwise spending years considering this project, going through the environmental review phase. Then let’s put it on the ballot every two years and make sure that this actually aligns with voters and their concerns.

If the project developer can sell the community and say, ‘Here’s the benefits, here’s the cost and this is why we believe that that’s worth your time and to go forward with this,’ then let’s all work together as a community to either approve or deny that process.”

Turnboo: “We need to follow the General Plan, which was put in place for a reason. There have been a lot of opportunities that have come to our board that I voted ‘no’ on, especially when they are talking about the J-6 application. When the J-6 application comes in, it is able to change the zoning going from agriculture to residential. No, I’m not supportive of this at all.”

Will you help keep the Rasmussen Pond area as a nature area for the public or do you support the developer who wants to put in 160 homes?

McCarty: “I won’t necessarily decide one way or the other. I do believe there is a lot of very good reasons to keep that an open space. People use it for recreation; it is a valuable resource for our community and I don’t take that lightly at all. I think the plan as

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with infrastructure problems like roads and traffic in El Dorado Hills?

Fortune: “We have roads that were not designed to accommodate the number of people that are actually living in El Dorado Hills now. You can see that on Green Valley Road, on Bass Lake Road and El Dorado Hills Boulevard. You can see it even on new roads like Saratoga that was created and people who are trying to get out of their development can’t make a left-hand turn. These issues are ones that we need to address. Oftentimes, it’s said, we don’t have enough money to do that. El Dorado Hills produces significant property taxes that contribute to our county government. So one of the very first priorities for me is going to be to fix the roads.”

Campbell: “I think one of the best ways that we can try to implement and enact some change with our roads is to incorporate a standard checklist for things. When there’s development projects that are that are given conditions of approval, we’re finding that those conditions aren’t being checked and validated as the developers continue. I think that needs to happen. In addition to that, we should have additional studies for our infrastructure and roads that and evaluate some of the taxes that are being used for roads.”

Ferrero: “Back in 2015, the county abandoned the critical infrastructure plan for our county. In this right, we voted on measures which say if a development is going to be proposed for five or more homes, and that development is going to negatively affect traffic, the developer is required (to make) those improvements. I totally agree with that. We’re gonna be playing catch up now because things have already been developed. But, moving forward, we need to practice responsible growth so we don’t have issues like we’re having on Green Valley and Latrobe roads.”

Read more online at VillageLife.com.

Continued from A1

it stands, from my understanding (and) giving credit where it’s due, makes an effort to retain public assets to Rasmussen Pond to keep the trails open for recreation to the public. For me, smart development is not a bad choice. Let’s look at specific concerns and see if we can resolve it in the community, see if it is good for them then consider moving forward. We need to be ready to make a decision one way or another but I am absolutely sympathetic about keeping that as an open space and accessible for the public.”

Turnboo: “This is one I have to recuse myself on since it will come in front of the board eventually, but I really love that area. It’s absolutely beautiful. What I can say is right now, we need to fix the infrastructure that we have in Cameron Park and that’s one of the issues we need to address before any more development gets put in. That’s as far as I can go on this topic right now.”

Cockrell: “The discussion is does the General Plan allow this? We know we need housing. We have to go through and pay attention to these requirements that we should follow by law. There is always a question if (county) staff is providing you the answers to this stuff. You have to dig in and double check. That said, Rasmussen was a key feature in the Cameron Park area that caused our flooding that we experienced. The problems with flooding haven’t been mitigated in the last year. We knew we needed to fix it and it hasn’t been done.” Read more online at VillageLife.com.

the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville presents “Rapunzel” through March 3. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org. Entries are now being accepted for the 35th annual El Dorado County Open Wine Competition. All entires are due on or before March 11. An awards presentation will take place March 22. For more information contact Jody Gray, competition coordinator. at

jodygray22@gmail.com.

Women’s Fund El Dorado’s Wickline Scholarship applications are now available. Candidates must reside on the Western Slope of El Dorado County, be female age 22 or older and must be accepted by and plan to attend an accredited educational or vocational institution between June 1, 2024 and May 31, 2025. Applications are due before 5 p.m. March 11. For additional

information visit womensfundeldorado.org/ wickline.

The Gallery at 48 Natoma presents Abstract Ideas, featuring art by Linda Nunes and Matt Rhoades, through April 18. In the adjacent Community Art Gallery, art from the Children’s Art Classes at the Folsom Art Center is on display through April 11. For more information call call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us.

Cars and Coffee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturday mornings, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. Everyone and every type of vehicle is welcome. The motto is “If it rolls, it goes.”

The El Dorado Hills Town Center Farmers Market takes place year round, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Sunday. Wander behind Nibblers and Trek Bicycle to discover a cornucopia of delights, where local area farms showcase an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. Explore stalls brimming with homemade treasures including jams and cheeses, as well many handmade creations.

Feb. 24

Camellia Day takes place 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Murer House & Gardens in Folsom. Enjoy a blossom show, self-guided tour and information from camellia experts. For more information visit murerhousefoundation.org.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Sierra hosts Crackin’ Crab for Kids at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. For tickets and more information visit bbbsns.org/events.

Feb. 27

Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive noon to 4 p.m. The Bloodmobile will be in the parking lot at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District near the baseball fields, 1021 Harvard Way. Make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM019 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

Feb. 28

“Mystic Pizza” comes to at Harris Center for the Arts, 10 College Parkway in Folsom, Feb. 28 through March 3. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Feb. 29

The El Dorado Office of Wildfire Preparedness and Resilience hosts a workshop on the Hazardous Vegetation and Defensible Space

going and she only knew she wanted to see Emma Stone, who is fabulous by the way.

“Barbie” and “Maestro” are flashier, big budget productions, but characters are still at their cores. Viewers see more complexity to characters we didn’t know much previously. Like “Wicked” did for Elphaba, a.k.a the Wicked Witch of the West, we get to know more about Barbie’s backstory, which is so much rounder than the plastic doll we’ve known and loved for 60 years.

I think we love her even more now.

Ordinance update 6-8 p.m. at the Cameron Park Community Center, 2505 Country Club Drive. There will be a virtual option for those who cannot attend in person. For more information call (530) 621-5569 or email wildfireready@edcgov.us.

March 2

Soroptimist International of Folsom and El Dorado Hills presents A Night to Remember, a fundraiser featuring an auction, raffle, music, food and wine tasting and more at the Folsom Community Center. For tickets and more information visit sifedh.com.

March 3

Face in a Book in El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts an Easter craft for adults, making decoupage eggs, 1-2:30 p.m. For more information call (916) 941-9401 or visit getyourfaceinabook.com.

March 7

The El Dorado Community Foundation has partnered with Sierra Business Council to bring a brainstorming workshop to the West Slope on the topic of creating sustainable and equitable jobs within the El Dorado County region, 2-4 p.m. at Hidden Star Orchards in Camino. Register on Eventbrite.com.

The El Dorado Union High School District hosts the annual Career Expo, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Union Mine High School, 6530 Koki Lane in El Dorado. This event is intended for high schoolers and young adults searching for career inspiration. Along with the many industry leaders that will be exhibiting the fascinating work they do in the community, there will also be a job fair where attendees have the opportunity to be interviewed and hired on the spot.

March 9

Thrive presents Back the Badge, a rustic gala. Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner at 6:30 p.m. at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Tickets are available online at heartbehindthebadge.eventbrite.com.

March 13

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a park party at the Jackson Elementary School all-abilities playground, 5-7 p.m. Enjoy free dinner, music, and family-oriented activities, including golf games provided by First Tee.

March 15

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Gilmore Senior Center in El Dorado Hills at 1 p.m. Call (916) 61403200 to sign up. Space is limited.

Continued from A3

was being said by those clues alone, reminding me of when teachers told me, “Shakespeare is not meant to be read, but to be seen” in action. I have found myself repeating those same words to students as well.

In “Maestro” we get a look behind the curtain into composer Leonard Bernstein’s life. His music is only one part of his story.

“The Zone of Interest” straddles a few categories. It is simple and artistic, and it depicts how a man who could take part in the atrocities of the Holocaust could go home and be a family man, living with his young family just outside the gates of Auschwitz. This one was the most difficult to study because it is entirely in German, no subtitles, and I saw it in the theater. The body language and facial expressions were so clear, I mostly knew what

Kiley

nation. Yet Biden and Su are now seeking to nationalize it, without so much as a vote of Congress.

More than 70 million Americans choose independent work over a W-2 employment relationship. They do so for a variety of reasons. Independent contracting offers flexibility to set your own schedule and work on your own terms. It allows freedom and flexibility that many prefer and many others need because of personal circumstances. It lowers barriers to entering the workforce for those who would otherwise have difficulty such as parents of infants or young children, seniors and individuals with disabilities. Independent work arrangements also provide a pathway to supplemental earnings for people who have multiple income sources. Forcing all of these workers into solely traditional employment would take away their ability to earn a living in the manner that works best for them and their families.

Beyond the far-reaching harms to workers, Biden’s new labor rule will also threaten countless businesses and harm the consumers who depend on their products and services. Small businesses, in particular, often work with a variety of independent contractors

“The Zone of Interest” also falls in the last category of movies that make broader statements about society, as do the last three films. “Killers of the Flower Moon” also portrays hypocrisy and greed during another dark period and the subsequent forming of the FBI (which is detailed even better in the book). “American Fiction” makes a statement on the Black experience and stereotyping while “Oppenheimer” explores physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer’s moral dilemma in developing the atomic bomb. This last category of films, which tackle broader societal issues affecting us all in the past or presently, are the ones that usually take home the top prize. I’ll have my popcorn ready.

Julie Samrick is an El Dorado Hills mother, teacher and writer. She is the author of “Murphy’s Miracle: One Dog’s Wild Journey” and “How People Get Their Politics.”

Continued from A3

to perform discrete tasks that are not well-suited or economically compatible with an employer-employee relationship. AB 5, once again, is instructive; it shuttered small businesses and nonprofits, depriving Californians of services ranging from translation to tutoring to reporting. If this policy is implemented nationwide, similar havoc will result. AB 5 offers a warning to the nation. It is one reason California has ranked first or second in the country when it comes to unemployment and poverty, and last in the country in wage growth. Congress must reject the nationalization of AB 5 and protect the diverse range of work arrangements that contribute to the American economy. We must oppose the ongoing attacks on worker freedom and ensure that worker preferences and autonomy are accounted for in all policy decisions. More than ever, we must support the right of enterprising Americans to pursue their calling as they see fit.

To that end, I am introducing legislation to nullify Biden’s independent contractor rule and urge all members of Congress to support it.

Congressman Kevin Kiley represents California’s 3rd District in the House of Representatives.

Samrick

Best Bakery & Cakes: Yellow Button Bakery

Best Heating/AC: Gilmore Heating, Air & Plumbing

Address: 8636 Antelope North Rd., Bldg. D Antelope Phone: (866) 394-1870

Website: gilmoreair.com

the greater Sacramento and El Dorado County area since 1979. In that time, the business has grown to more than 100 employees, all dedicated to the “Get More with Gilmore” motto that promises outstanding customer service. Gilmore provides more than just heating and air conditioning services, in 2016 the business expanded to include complete residential plumbing and drain services.

Best

Website: goldenhillsschool.net

Best Assisted Living Facility: EDH Senior Care

staple

2920

Best Asian Food: Thai Paradise

Coming from a long line of chefs trained at international hotels in Bangkok, Chef Jarunee Fleming brings a special touch to her authentic Thai recipes. With locally sourced produce and fresh meat and seafood brought in daily, Jarunee prepares her farm-to-fork dishes with rice bran oil, making them healthy and flavorful.

“I like to make people happy with my food,” said Jarunee, and happiness abounds at the family-run eatery.

The El Dorado Hills location opened in 2019

V illage H omes

Patricia Seide

CalDRE #00892540 (916) 712-1617

patricia.seide@ cbnorcal.com

Nicolette Wichert

CalBRE #02041470 (916) 458-1342

nicolette.wichert@ cbnorcal.com

4550 Echo Springs Circle, El Dorado Hills

5,076 square feet

4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms

0.44-acre property

Listed at $3,199,000

MLS #224010980

Timeless estate remodeled to perfection

Introducing an exquisite masterpiece by Wichert Homes in El Dorado Hills. This magnificent modern estate seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with timeless traditional flair.

Nestled gracefully upon the lush greens of the Serrano golf course, this stunning property has undergone a complete transformation, inside and out, boasting unparalleled luxury and sophistication. Step inside to discover an open floor plan with abundant natural light that highlights the remodeled interior.

Entertainment knows no bounds in this two-story home, with an expansive great room perfect for hosting get-togethers large and small. Guests will enjoy refreshments from the remodeled wet bar with a full-size wine fridge, ice maker and storage. Drink in hand, they can cozy up next to the fireplace and admire the woodbeamed ceiling. The room also has a built-in entertainment center with a spot for a big screen TV, cabinets and display shelves. Large windows and glass doors brighten the space.

The adjacent custom-designed kitchen adorned with quartz countertops is complemented by state-of-the-art appliances, ample cabinetry and a large island with bar seating and a sink. Enjoy meals in the kitchen’s dining space complete with designer lighting, comfortable window seating and covered patio access.

Rounding out the living space are two flexible-use front

rooms. Turn one or the other into a formal dining space, a reading room, a home office, etc. And when it’s time for some fun after a long workday, head upstairs to the dedicated golf simulator room. The four-bedroom, five bathroom home ensures everyone will have privacy when desired. The relaxing primary suite has a crackling fireplace and delicate chandelier. Wash stress away in the suite’s bathroom, which features a walkin shower and dual sinks flanking a soaking tub.

Other home amenities include a laundry room, generator and owned solar system and a whole house fan. The attached, four-car garage has epoxy flooring.

The backyard embodies resort-style living with a professionally landscaped putting green, inviting firepit and a revitalized pool and spa featuring modern PebbleTec finishes. The outdoor oasis continues with a redesigned barbecue area, showcasing a premium Wolf barbecue, kegerator and a versatile wok/griddle station ideal for culinary enthusiasts. Two pergolas provide shade around the pool.

The gorgeous front yard features manicured shrubs, small lawns and a rock river flowing along the concrete path that leads to the front door.

Interested in a private tour of this beautiful Echo Springs Circle property in El Dorado Hills? Contact Realtor Nicolette Wichert, (916) 458-1342, nicolette.wichert@ cbnorcal.com, or Realtor Pat Seide at (916) 712-1617, patricia.seide@cbnorcal.com.

Chloe,

MValley Academy students recently transformed their classrooms into blistering deserts, sweltering rainforests and more as part of learning about Earth’s biomes.

The hands-on lessons conclude with student presentations during which they share information with other students — some choosing to dress up as a specific animal that lives within their class biome and sharing facts about the creature.

Way down in the abyss, sixth-graders dove into the unknown and surfaced with some interesting facts.

“Blobfish are the most dominant animal,” said student Henry Fogarty. “They are apex predators.”

“The ocean is really deep and you find so much in there,” added classmate Rubi

Montenegro. For more than 20 years the El Dorado Hills private school has engaged students’ curiosity about biomes using this method. Each biome is pre-assigned to a specific class, with the exception of eighth grade. Those students get to select their own — choosing one year to study the bottom of the Atlantic where the

Titanic rests and another year an archaeological site from Indiana Jones.

“The kids retain the information so much better if they get to build it, see it,” shared Melissa Crangle, MVA executive director, adding that the student presentations help build confidence. For more information about MVA visit mvaedh.org.

Students Mila Jones, 10 left, and Benny Poort, 10, pose with some of the critters they and classmates created for the desert biome.

eet Bo and Sunny! They are the Obama family’s pet Portuguese water dogs. The family carefully researched which kind of dog to get because of Malia’s allergies.

First Presidents Pets

George Washington had 36 hounds and horses. Circle every other letter to discover another special pet.

Calvin Coolidge, the 30th president, had a pet raccoon that he walked on a leash.

And Herbert Hoover had a pet opossum.

Unscramble the letters to see what explorers Lewis and Clark gave to Thomas Jefferson.

U.S. presidents have had many different kinds of pets. Dogs, mice, parrots and even bears have made a home at the White House. This week’s Kid Scoop page celebrates Presidents Day by getting to know some of these pets.

Letter to the Editor

Standards

Are you an eagle-eyed reader? Read the story below and circle the eight errors you find. Then rewrite the story correctly.

Wild White House

Theodore Roosevelt might have has the most pets of any American president.

During World War I, this president kept a herd of sheep on the White House lawn to cut the grass!

the

Roosevelt had several dogs and cat, a badger, a pony, a macaw, a rat, a garter snakes, roosters, an owl, a flying squirrel, a raccoon, a coyote, a lion, a hyena and a zebra!

John AdamsQuincy silkwormskept as pets. Connect the dots to see the not-so-cuddly reptile he also owned.

along the correct path to discover his name.

A Holstein dairy cow named Pauline Wayne grazed on the White House lawn and provided milk for President William Howard Taft and his family.

Select and read a letter to the editor of your newspaper. Make a list of facts and opinions in the letter. Does it contain more facts or opinions? Do you agree or disagree with the writer? Give reasons for your opinion.

Roosevelt’s kids loved having so many animals arund. When Roosevelt’s son Archie got the measles, his brother Quentin thought a visit from the family pony might cheered him up. So Quentin put the animal in the White Horse elevator and brought him to Archie’s upstairs room.

Once, Quentin borrowed a bunch of snakes from a pet store. Running to show his father, Quentin interrupts an important meeting and dropped the snakes all over his father desk!

Imagine that you have just been elected president of the United States. Look through the newspaper and find things you can use to do your job that were not available to Abraham Lincoln or George Washington.

Standards Link: Research: Use the newspaper to locate information.

This week’s word: RESEARCH

The verb research means to gather a lot of information about a subject.

My mom researched a lot of cars before deciding which one to buy.

Try to use the word research in a sentence today when talking with your friends and family members.

What would you do? How would you spend your days? Why would you want to be president?

Martin Van Buren had a pair of tiger cubs!

James Buchanan had an elephant and an eagle!

Harris Center for the Arts hosts top-tier shows

Musical serves up classic hits

F— As part of its West Coast premiere, Harris Center for the Arts is excited to present six performances of “Mystic Pizza, Feb, 28 through March 3. Based on the beloved 1988 MGM rom-com that launched the career of Julia Roberts, “Mystic Pizza” is a new musical about three working-class girls who navigate the complexities of life, love and family in a small-town pizza joint, serving everyone from the townies to the privileged country club set. And what’s in that secret sauce, you ask? The hits of the ‘80s and ‘90s, The hit songs range from “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” to “Hold On” to “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now.”

This production is irected by Casy Hushion with music direction by Kristin Stowel and choreography by Connor Gallagher.

The cast of Mystic Pizza: Gianna Yanelli as “Josephina (JoJo) Barboza,” Kyra Kennedy as “Katherine (Kat) Arujo,” Krystina Alabado as “Daisy Arujo,” Rayanne Gonzales as “Leona Silvia,” Jordan Friend as “Bill Montijo,” Michael Thomas Grant as “Charles Gordon Windsor, Jr.,” and Chris Cardozo as “Tim Travers.” The ensemble features Domo D’dante, Michael James, April Josephine,

Tribute honors first ladies of country

Ed Sengstack Harris Center for the Arts

FOLSOM — Harris Center for the Arts celebrates female superstars with Trailblazing Women of Country: A Tribute to Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly March 8.

Patsy Cline, Loretta

Louis Pardo, Monika Peña, Alyssa M. Simmons, Jeff Skowron, Jake Swain, and Rachel Wirtz. Swings are Chachi Delgado and Tayler Mettra. In partnership with Lively McCabe Entertainment, McCoy Rigby

Lynn and Dolly Parton revolutionized country music and blazed a trail for future generations of female artists. With their chart-topping hits and record-breaking sales, these talented women wove threads of contemporary womanhood throughout the tapestry of country music, resulting in unprecedented commercial success and earning each a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Trailblazing Women of Country will entertain and inspire audiences during this pivotal moment in our nation’s history, featuring soloists Miko Marks, CMT’s

2022 Next Woman of Country, and Nashville based singer Kristina Train, supported by a five-member all-female band.

Cline, Lynn and Parton harnessed country music’s rich storytelling tradition to offer their

Entertainment, Riverside Theatricals and La Mirada Theatre for The Performing Arts, “Mystic Pizza” will perform Wednesday, Feb. 28, through Saturday, March 3, at 7:30 pm, with additional matinee performances

uniquely empowered — and unmistakably female — perspective on issues faced by women of their day. Their shared legacy of musical excellence, earthy glamor and unapologetic authenticity continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds in the 21st century.

on Saturday, March 2, and Sunday, March 3, at 2 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College, 10 College Parkway in Folsom. For tickets and more details call (916) 608-6888 or visit HarrisCenter.net.

Cline’s assured contralto affirms that a woman can be heartbroken and sure of herself at the same time (“Crazy,” “Walkin’ After Midnight”); Lynn’s songs exalt autonomy attained through contraception (“The Pill”) and selfrespect (“Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’ with Lovin’ On Your Mind”); and Parton demonstrates that a woman can ascend the career ladder (“9-to5”) while never losing sight of her roots (“Coat of Many Colors”).

Through their singular voices and artistry, Cline, Lynn and Parton defied restrictive gender norms, proving that women can be at once beautiful and strong, vulnerable and powerful.

The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 8, at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College, 10 College Parkway in Folsom. For tickets and more details call (916) 608-6888 or visit HarrisCenter.net.

CONSTRUCTION ZONE: MUSICIANS AT WORK

Get tickets now for the March 16 event hosted by Folsom Lake Symphony at Harris Center for the Arts. Explore music’s fascinating building blocks — the instruments, the people who play them and the various musical roadmaps.

New this year — be amazed by the talented winner of the symphony’s inaugural Young Artist Competition; 16-year-old Nathaniel Zhang will perform the Rachmaninoff Piano

No. 3, movement 1 with the symphony.

A captivating and engaging program designed for all ages, this event sells out early. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit HarrisCenter.net.

Photo by Jason Niedle

The West Coast premiere of “Mystic Pizza” performs six times at Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College.

Photo by Amanda Lopez Performers Miko Marks, above, and Kristina Train, below, will pay tribute to country legends at the Trailblazing Women of Country performance March 8.

Photo by Fairlight Hubbard

Concerto

‘Anything Goes’ for Photography Month

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

SACRAMENTO

— Led by Viewpoint

Photographic Art Center, a nonpro t organization located in Midtown Sacramento, and in collaboration with many involved partners including the city of Sacramento, Inside Publications, Sacramento County Board of Supervisors O ce of Phil Serna (District 1) and Sacramento365.com, Photography Month Sacramento is scheduled for April 2024.

First launched in 2018, the month-long event is highlighted by a variety of diverse and eclectic events that include special exhibits, receptions, photo shoot meet-ups, workshops, lectures, photo shoot gatherings and more. Photography Month Sacramento creates a shared platform for galleries, museums, educational institutions, libraries, retail establishments, photographers and patrons to celebrate and elevate the art of photography. Interested participants are encouraged to create and/or highlight their own activations to help showcase the art of photography. Thus far, a number of museums, businesses and educational institutions from throughout the region have already

signed up to participate in 2024, including: Casa de Español, Crocker Art Museum, Granucci Gallery at the Center for the Arts in Grass Valley, Nevada County Camera Club based in Nevada City, Sacramento History Museum, Sacramento State University Department of Photography, Viewpoint Photographic Art Center and YoloArts in Woodland.

How to get involved: Involvement in Photography Month Sacramento for businesses, museums and organizations is free and simple to do. The regional showcase o ers a turnkey way to highlight visually enticing

Street in Placerville. It is one of the longest-running community art projects in California with 556 pieces of wonderful community art displayed over the last 19 years (2005-23).

Painted banners will be displayed on the light poles at various locations on Main Street June through

photographic programming already in place (possibly by incorporating a fresh visual element or hosting a special activation), introduce a concept in the planning stages or create something unique to engage enthusiasts and connect with new audiences throughout the region.

Photographers wanted: Photography Month Sacramento is open to everyone — professional and amateur photographers alike — and o ers wonderful opportunities to launch and/or exhibit photographic work or to create a grassroots collaborative exhibit with friends interested in the visual

arts. Those interested are encouraged to get creative and plan individual activations and/or contact favorite local co ee houses or restaurants to see if they might host an exhibit or reception in April.

Once any photography-related concepts are con rmed by businesses, organizations, museums or individuals, Photography Month Sacramento participants are asked to post information details about any upcoming events at photomonthsacramento.org/events, a community curated calendar that is connected to and supported by Sacramento365.com.

October 2024. A er that, they will be sold at an online auction in late October. Proceeds from the sale of the banners will be used to fund Placerville Art on Parade in the future. A local artist/art teacher will judge the banners and ribbons will be presented to the top three banners with three honorable mentions. Those banners judged as winners will be awarded $100 for rst place, $50 for second place and $25 for third place.

Banners on Parade is a major annual event of Images of Hope El Dorado, which has been a event sponsor for many years. The Banners on Parade call to artists and application is now available for artists to apply to paint a banner for the 2024 exhibit. Visit placervilleartonparade.org/ applying.

Sac Philharmonic & Opera announces dynamic season

News release

SACRAMENTO — The Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera has announced its concert schedule for the 2024-25 season. The new season, which begins Oct. 26, 2024, includes seven performances. Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. at SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center. Among the highlights of the new season are concerts featuring renowned pianist Awadagin Pratt and Grammy-award winning violinist Augustin Hadelich, as well as four engagements with Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor Ari Pelto. Other guests include conductors Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser, Stephanie Rhodes Russell and Emily Senturia, pianist Parker Van Ostrand, soprano Rhoslyn Jones and opera directors Mo Zhou and David Lefkowich.

Musical highlights include Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, Copland’s Suite from “Billy the Kid” and Brahms’ Violin Concerto. Opera will be an integral part of the season, with performances of the wildly popular and beloved Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro” and Mascagni’s gripping “Cavalleria rusticana.” The season will end with Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 in D major, “Titan,” to commemorate the SP&O’s reopening in 2015.

Next season the SP&O is committed to performing not just the classical favorites audiences have come to anticipate, but also music by underrepresented composers. Composers William Grant Still, Jessie Montgomery and Daniel Catán will have works featured throughout the season.

“Looking at next season’s programs, it’s impossible not to feel a tremendous sense of anticipation,” said Giuliano Kornberg, SP&O executive director. “The SP&O exists to provide our community with unparalleled classical music and that is exactly what this new season will o er: dynamic, diverse music produced by exceptional talent.”

In addition to the exciting lineup of artists and programs, there is more good news for audiences. Ticket sales for 2023-24 have been so strong, with limited seats available for most concerts, that a second performance of the January 2025 concert, Beethoven, Brahms and Hadelich under the baton of Pelto and featuring violinist Hadelich has been added. Subscribers and ticket buyers will have the option to attend either Saturday at 7:30 p.m. or Sunday at 2 p.m. Subscription packages are on sale now, with seven-performance packages starting at $147. Single tickets will go on sale in August. For more information or to purchase a subscription visit sacphilopera.org or call (916) 476-5975.

Courtesy photo Businesses are invite to celebrate Photography Month in the Sacramento region possibly by incorporating a fresh visual element or hosting a special event.

Cflashpoints of nine disparate love stories exemplifying the beginnings, endings and reawakenings of love all occurring on a clear, cold, mystical winter evening. Employing a healthy hint of magical realism, the play is a love story told through nine tales of falling in or out of love, subverting expectations and confounding the audience’s very understanding of love.

The play has been produced more than 5,000 times in American regional, community, university and high school theaters and 100-plus international productions have come to the stage since its world premier in 2004 at the Portland Stage Company in Portland, Maine, according to the play’s official website, almostmaine. com.

Co-directed by Cattaryna Tekin and Anthony DePage, “Almost, Maine” features six actors portraying the show’s 19 characters.

DePage told Village Life he thinks the audience will connect with the subject matter.

“I hope that the audience sees a reflection of something that they can relate to in the dead of winter,” he said. “The dead of winter is known as a sad time and it’s a time of reflection.

“What I really like about this play is that I hope that [we] get the sense of ‘almost’ we’re witnessing through these windows into the lives of people that we meet,” he continued. “I think the audience will go away with a heartwarming and fulfilling evening.”

Tekin agrees and said she hopes to take the audience on a “rollercoaster where they will experience heartbreak, new love, lost love and sweet and

funny moments.”

“I would like the audience to take in all these little moments as a whole and go away with a picture of the play’s theme,” she shared. “These are all little pieces, little scenes, but they are all connected.”

Callista Angelli, who plays Jeanette, hadn’t heard of the play before auditioning.

“I just wanted to branch out, experience new theaters,” she said. “I thought it looked really interesting.”

She immediately connected with the script.

“I like how it shows that there are so many different types of love and different problems and situations,” she explained, adding the audience will easily understand the show’s messages.

“It’s real, relatable and realistic,” she said. “And it sends a good message, I think.”

Christopher Bertram plays Pete. He admitted he wasn’t quite sure about the play when he first auditioned but has since become a convert.

“I love the play,” he said. “I didn’t think I would when I first read it, but I started falling in love with the characters and I like the way the lines are written. It’s just so interesting.”

Jill Wilson plays multiple characters throughout the play and said she thinks they all have one thing in common. “I think that they all want to be loved.”

The actress also shared how much she enjoys the writing and freedom to explore her characters.

“Yeah, there’s a lot of room because of the way the dialogue is written,” she said. “There’s a lot of room to just play around.

“I personally like the awkwardness. There’s a lot of awkwardness and it is messy, the way that people come together or fall apart,” Wilson continued. “I liked that about it because, despite all the many cliches that are in this play, it does stay true to the messiness of human connection.”

Wilson thinks the audience will walk away with a sense of n See ALMOST, page B8

‘Tattooed & Tenacious’ explores Sacramento’s wild side

California’s History.

— The Sacramento History Museum is proud to present a compelling new exhibit.

Tattooed & Tenacious: Inked Women in

The visually exciting exhibit allows museum visitors to explore the world of tattoos and demonstrates why they are not just a recent trend or passing fad. From the working-class to the upper-class, inked

women have a long history in California and have helped popularize tattoos while also providing female tattoo artists the opportunity to leave their mark in an otherwise male-dominated industry.

The exhibit sheds light on the little-known history of women and tattoos through photographs, personal histories and artifacts from individuals such as Victorian-era heiress Aimée Crocker. The exhibit also highlights the style di erences in tattooing of the past with the inked women of today; for instance, in the late 1800s tattoos were primarily one color while today they are a vibrant and colorful display of artistry.

chose tattoos as a form of expression and how tattoo art has empowered and positively impacted their lives.

The Tattooed & Tenacious: Inked

Tattooed & Tenacious is in part a touring exhibit from the Exhibit Envoy/Hayward Area Historical Society plus a showcase of local women and their art-

work from contemporary women tattoo artists of the Sacramento region, curated by the Sacramento History Museum. As a highlight,

museum visitors will have the chance to discover fascinating stories behind the ink as local women share their personal reasons about why they

Women in California’s History exhibit, on display through June 2, 2024, will be located in the R. Burnett Miller Gallery on the museum’s third oor and is included with museum admission. Located at 101 I St. at the Old Sacramento Waterfront, the Sacramento History Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information visit sachistorymuseum. org.

Almost

Continued from B7

joy a er seeing the show.

“It’s life-a rming,” she noted. “I think they’ll feel that joy you feel when you watch something life-a rming.”

That joy has already been felt by the directors.

“I’ve had a great experience here,” said Tekin of working on the show. “I really like it.”

“The Stage has been very welcoming,” added DePage. “They have been very supportive in all aspects.”

“Almost, Maine” runs through March 10 with performances at 1 and 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays at The Stage at Burke Junction, 3300 Coach Lane, Suite E1, Cameron Park. For tickets or more information visit stageatburke.com.

I’ve lived in El Dorado Hills, District 1 for ten years.

Photo by Andrew Vonderschmitt

Dave (John Goodin) and Rhonda (Jill Wilson) get down to the bare necessities in “Almost, Maine.”

Photo courtesy of Kevin Vierra & Michelle Smith Tattooed & Tenacious: Inked Women in California’s History sheds light on the little-known history of women and tattoos through photographs, personal histories and artifacts.