Village Life/Cameron Park Life, Thursday, May 4, 2023

EDH IS A MOVIE STAR

Recently released film showcases Town Center

Odin Rasco

Staff writer

Amovie lmed in El Dorado Hills is now available to audiences virtually anywhere.

“Not Your Year” is a romantic comedy centering on Ben, a man who got rich quick and lost it all just as quickly and whose life is li ed up by two strong women he meets in a local music scene. Claire, a music lover, and Melissa, an oddball artist, pursue very di erent goals but their lives intersect with each other and with Ben in surprising and a ecting ways.

Filmed in 2017, “Not Your Year” waited some time for its own year to come; distribution agreements have nally been secured and the movie can be found now on Amazon, with Google Play, Tubi and Apple availability to come this summer.

“It’s very exciting that this is nally coming out this way,” director and screenwriter James Meyers said. “It’s nice to know more people will be able to nally see the lm. We aimed high when we made it and it’s a fun movie. I think

everybody has been through a lot lately and people are in the mood for something light, so it’s actually a really good time for this to come out.”

The road to lming was a long one as well; producer Paul Nicknig

Art, Beer & Wine Festival returns

News release

rst met Meyers in 2008. Meyers and Nicknig both shared an interest in telling positive, feel-good stories as an alternative to what they saw as a more pervasive trend for media to be morose or

■ See FILM, page A6

One of the area’s largest events, El Dorado Hills Art, Beer & Wine Festival, returns to the El Dorado Hills Town Center Mother’s Day weekend.

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce has produced this regional event since 2003 and is pleased to present the festival again in collaboration with its Premier Partners, event sponsors, artists, breweries,

Photo by Charlene Lane/Charm Photography Miranda Dawn and Chris Hawkes, playing themselves, perform in El Dorado Hills Town Center’s amphitheater in a scene for the feature film “Not Your Year.”

Courtesy photo

Vendor booths, art displays and beer and wine tasting take over El Dorado Hills Town Center May 13 & 14.

What’s happening

May 4

Women’s Fund El Dorado hosts its Grants Gala, 5-8 p.m. at the Cameron Park Community Center. For tickets and more information visit womensfundeldorado.org.

Ponderosa Stage Productions presents “The Bold, The Young, and the Murdered” at Ponderosa High School in Shingle Springs, May 4-6. For more details visit pondodrama.com.

May 6

The Clarksville Region Historical Society presents Ghost Town Open House in historical Clarksville, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests will enjoy live music, classic cars, a stagecoach and more.

Admission is free.

Author Erin Dealey comes to Face in a Book 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with her new picture book, “The Half Birthday Book.” For more information call (916) 941-9401.

The Shingle-Springs

Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce, Peak Nutrition and Concerned Citizens of Cameron Park host a Safety & Wellness Fair, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 3392 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. The EDH Community Services District hosts Pitch Hit Run, 2-5 p.m. at Promontory Park.

Baseball and softball players ages 7-14 are invited to this free event. For more information call (916) 614-3227.

Registration is required. Visit edhcsd.org.

May 8

Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive, noon to

What are your plans for Mother’s Day?

Kris Van Winkle Placerville

“In past years I’ve been known to do the family feast. But every year I hope for a surprise.”

eli escoto Sacramento

“I usually buy bouquets of flowers, but this year I’m going to go into a field and pick every flower by hand.”

stuDent Of the year

“I’ll relax with my feet up while my children plan a barbecue, cook the barbecue and serve me at the barbecue.”

“For Mother’s Day, I’m not really sure. Maybe a barbecue at my mom’s house.”

(He’s Jeannie’s son!)

“My plan is to not have a plan. I don’t want to have to do anything on Mother’s Day.

Courtesy photo El Dorado Hills Rotarians and educators came together April 19 to celebrate Jackson Elementary School student Eric Jamalyan for his outstanding efforts in the classroom and the community. Eric, third from left, is seen here surrounded by family, educators and Rotarians after receiving his award. The student’s great work earned him a plaque, $50 and an illustrated dictionary from the Rotary Club of El Dorado Hills.

peOpLe taLK Photos and question by Jacob Bassett

Jeannie Bishop Camino

Cameron Park likely shuttering a fire station; Cal Fire contract OK’d

Noel Stack

Managing Editor

With reluctance, the Cameron Park Community Services District Board of Directors supported a re service plan that will brown out Station 88 on Alhambra Drive.

The plan presented April 19 by CPCSD General Manager André Pichly, following several discussions with Cal Fire and a CSD ad hoc committee, includes a veyear service extension agreement with Cal Fire that will run July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2028, during which time Cal Fire will continue to operate out of Station 89 on Country Club Drive using a nineperson sta ng model (one three-person engine company with a sta ng factor of three — three bodies per seat working threeday/72 hour shi s) and keep ambulance service in the district.

“Although less than ideal, this sta ng model allows the district to maintain reliable re and emergency services at a base level with our current partners and provides time to explore the future of our service in the bigger picture of other agencies and county responses to these needs,” Pichly notes in his sta report.

Cal Fire Amador-El Dorado Unit Chief Mike Blankenheim acknowledged, “Taking an engine out of the system is not safe for the system.”

However, he said, agreeing with this plan will ensure one fully sta ed re station and put less stress on Cameron Park’s re ghting personnel as vacancies, illnesses and other absences within the district have resulted in a lot of overtime and sta burnout. He told board members and residents

the loss of Engine 88 could add as much as two minutes to emergency response times within the Cameron Park Fire Department’s service area and also touted the county’s mutual aid system that ensures neighboring re agencies will pitch in when needed.

But Rescue Fire Department Capt. Joel Warman, who lives in Cameron Park near Station 88, said he’s worried the impact to other agencies is being downplayed. He praised Cal Fire’s service to the community and noted, “They’re hamstrung on what their costs are. They’re bound by that and it’s not their fault.”

Still, he maintained, closing a re station, even temporarily should another funding source be found, is “not acceptable.”

“I would get rid of the ambulance,” Warman suggested.

All agreed the loss of a manned re station is a hard hit but board members had even more concerns about the risks associated with giving up Medic 89.

Station 88’s brownout still doesn’t knock out the district’s nancial woes.

As Pichly stressed during the April 19 board meeting, more “tough choices” will have to be made in the coming months. A projected budget gap of more than $275,000 between the re services’ projected revenues ($4,471,665) and expenditures ($4,747, 550) in scal year 2023-24 remains and that de cit continues to grow wider through the life of the ve-year contract extension.

The general manager said the board might have no other choice but to allocate more of its prop-

erty tax revenue to re protection, forcing cuts to the CSD’s parks and recreation programs and its administration. “It could be that we close certain facilities,” Pichly told the board. “There’s never good options.”

CPCSD Director Dawn Wolfson suggested sta research long-term funding solutions, even perhaps a ballot measure to boost the district’s tax revenue.

Board President Sidney Bazett asked about personnel savings like possibly having just paramedics sta the ambulance rather than re ghter/paramedics. Blankenheim said Cal Fire does not have a paramedic-only position so that sta would have to come from another agency.

Noting that everything is just “more expensive” these days, Director Eric Aiston said he wished he could do more for Cameron Park residents but “reluctantly supports” the plan. This contract extension gives sta the time to explore options, he noted, adding the district’s forthcoming Fire

Yellow Button Bakery Yellow Button

Village Life photo by Eric Jaramishian

emergency services out of Cameron Park Fire Department Station 88 on Alhambra Drive allows for a fully staffed Station 89.

El Dorado Savings Bank

El Dorado Savings Bank

El Dorado Savings Bank

Celebrating Years Strong 65

Celebrating Years Strong 65

Celebrating Years Strong 65

FINANCIAL FOCUS Can you benefit from a 529 plan?

and your withdrawals could be subject to state tax penalties.)

See what the experts say about El Dorado Savings Bank

See what the experts say about El Dorado Savings Bank

See what the experts say about El Dorado Savings Bank

Celebrating Years Strong 65 El Dorado Savings Bank

El Dorado Savings Bank

Celebrating Years Strong 65

Another school year is coming to a close. And if you have young children, they’re now a year closer to heading o to college or some other type of post-secondary education or training. If you haven’t already done so, you may want to start preparing for these costs.

BAUER FINANCIAL, INC.

BAUER FINANCIAL, INC.

BAUER FINANCIAL, INC.

SUZY O’NEAL Financial columnist

A 529 plan can also be used to pay for most expenses connected to apprenticeship programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor.

These programs are o en available at community colleges and combine classroom education with on-the-job training.

See what the experts say about El Dorado Savings Bank

El Dorado Savings Bank has Earned the Highest Rating for 119 Consecutive Quarters. www.bauerfinancial.com

El Dorado Savings Bank has Earned the Highest Rating for 119 Consecutive Quarters. www.bauerfinancial.com

BAUER FINANCIAL, INC.

See what the experts say about El Dorado Savings Bank

El Dorado Savings Bank has Earned the Highest Rating for 119 Consecutive Quarters. www.bauerfinancial.com

The FINDLEY REPORT

The FINDLEY REPORT

The FINDLEY REPORT

And they can be considerable. During the 2022-23 school year, the average estimated annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, transportation and other personal expenses) was nearly $28,000 for public, four-year, in-state schools and more than $57,000 for private, nonpro t, four-year schools, according to the College Board.

Furthermore, you can now withdraw funds from a 529 plan to repay quali ed federal private and student loans, up to $10,000 for each 529 plan bene ciary and another $10,000 for each of the beneciary’s siblings.

But what if you’ve named a child as a 529 plan bene ciary and that child doesn’t want to pursue any type of advanced education? If this happens you, as the account owner, are free to name another family member as bene ciary.

BAUER FINANCIAL, INC.

El Dorado Savings Bank has Earned the Highest Rating for 119 Consecutive Quarters. www.bauerfinancial.com

El Dorado Savings Bank Awarded the Classification of Premier Performance during the year 2022. www.findley-reports.com

El Dorado Savings Bank Awarded the Classification of Premier Performance during the year 2022. www.findley-reports.com

El Dorado Savings Bank Awarded the Classification of Premier Performance during the year 2022. www.findley-reports.com

The FINDLEY REPORT

El Dorado Savings Bank has Earned the Highest Rating for 119 Consecutive Quarters. www.bauerfinancial.com

Of course, some students don’t pay the full bill for college. Any grants and scholarships they receive can bring down the “sticker price.” Still, there’s o en a sizable amount that students and their families must come up with. To help ll this gap, you may want to explore various strategies, one of which is a 529 education savings plan.

And beginning in 2024, you may have even more exibility if a child foregoes college or other post-secondary education. Due to the passing of the Secure Act 2.0 in December 2022, unused 529 plan funds of up to $35,000 may be eligible to roll over to a Roth IRA of the designated bene ciary.

The FINDLEY REPORT

El Dorado Savings Bank Awarded the Classification of Premier Performance during the year 2022. www.findley-reports.com

A 529 plan o ers several key bene ts.

“Quality Makes A Difference”

“Quality Makes A Difference”

SAFE—STRONG—SECURE

“Quality Makes A Difference”

El Dorado Savings Bank Awarded the Classification of Premier Performance during the year 2022. www.findley-reports.com

SAFE—STRONG—SECURE

“Quality Makes A Difference”

SAFE—STRONG—SECURE

“Quality

SAFE—STRONG—SECURE

SAFE—STRONG—SECURE

Serving our local communities for 65 years

First of all, your earnings can grow tax deferred and your withdrawals are federally tax free when used for quali ed education expenses, such as tuition, fees, books and so on. You may be eligible to invest in a 529 plan in most states but ,depending on where you live, you may be able to deduct your contributions from your state income tax or possibly receive a state tax credit for investing in your home state’s 529 plan. Tax issues for 529 plans can be complex. Please consult your tax advisory about your situation.

One of the quali cations for this rollover is to have had your 529 plan for at least 15 years. To determine if you qualify for this rollover, you will want to consult your tax advisor.

A 529 plan has a lot to o er — and it might be something to consider for your family’s future.

Withdrawals used for expenses other than quali ed education expenses may be subject to federal and state taxes, plus a 10% penalty. Make sure to discuss the potential nancial aid impacts with a nancial aid professional.

Edward Jones, its nancial advisors and employees cannot provide tax or legal advice.

Serving our local communities for 65 years

Serving our local communities for 65 years

We thank our valued customers for your continued support. Come experience superior customer service at any of our 35 convenient branch offices or visit us on-line at:

Serving our local communities for 65 years

And 529 plans aren’t just for college. You may be able to use one to pay K-12 expenses, up to $10,000 per student per year. (However, not all states comply with this 529 expansion for K-12, so you might not be able to claim deductions

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisor Suzy O’Neal, (530) 676-5402. Edward Jones, member SIPC.

Continued

Serving our local communities for 65 years

We thank our valued customers for your continued support. Come experience superior customer service at any of our 35 convenient branch offices or visit us on-line at:

Member www.eldoradosavingsbank.com

NMLSR ID 479256

We thank our valued customers for your continued support. Come experience superior customer service at any of our 35 convenient branch offices or visit us on-line at:

Member www.eldoradosavingsbank.com

We thank our valued customers for your continued support. Come experience superior customer service at any of our 35 convenient branch offices or visit us on-line at:

We thank our valued customers for your continued support. Come experience superior customer service at any of our 35 convenient branch offices or visit us on-line at:

800-874-9779

Member www.eldoradosavingsbank.com

Master Plan (for which a consultant contract was approved earlier in the evening) could o er some ideas — such as sending out a request for proposals to other re agencies that could serve Cameron Park.

“We’ve had a great partnership (with Cal Fire),” Bazett said. “They’re highly

professional and provide great service.”

But the board president asserted the CSD has an obligation to best serve its residents and look at all possibilities.

Member www.eldoradosavingsbank.com

NMLSR ID 479256

NMLSR ID 479256

NMLSR ID 479256

NMLSR ID 479256

800-874-9779

Member www.eldoradosavingsbank.com

800-874-9779

800-874-9779

Film

negative.

“I was very interested in working with him,” Nicknig recalled. “There’s enough negativity in the world; we wanted to make things that made people feel good.”

Meyers had a background in the film industry, reading scripts for a major production company in Los Angeles, and production experience from working in television journalism. Nicknig had studied film in college and worked in the industry as well before moving back to his hometown of Sacramento. Both saw their skill sets complemented the other’s and a partnership formed.

Another familiar figure helped in production as well; the Mountain Democrat’s own film critic Joshua Porter showed he is just as willing to create movies as analyze them, serving as a producer on “Not Your Year.”

The film was a locally produced product through and through, with almost all the producers, actors, crew and the director/screenwriter coming from the Sacramento area.

“We cast the film locally intentionally,” Nicknig said. “The goal was to have the cast and crew film in this area so that all the money spent was put right back into the local economy while showcasing the greater Sacramento region and build up the filmmaking community.”

The lead characters in the film were all portrayed by experienced actors, most of whom had honed their skills for years at Sacramento’s B Street Theatre. They had met the producers in the past and had talked about collaborating; when the filming finally came together,

they described the process as a chance to have fun.

“I really just got to hang out with my wife and friends while making a movie for a few weeks,” said Jason Kuykendall, who plays Ben in the film and also helped in the film editing process. Kuykendall has been acting his entire adult life and has been involved with B Street Theatre for around 20 years.

Dana Brooke acts professionally from coast to coast, living in New York but often coming to California to act, primarily in theatre productions. It was at one such play that Meyers first met her, saying he knew he had to work with her when he first saw her onstage. Meyers’ hopes came true, as Brooke plays the quirky songstress Melissa in “Not Your Year,” one of three movies Meyers has written and directed.

“I met Jim when he was still developing the movie and we talked about it but I never knew what would come of it,” Brooke said. “It was really fun to work with friends on the film and I’m so happy for everyone that it’s getting to a wider audience. It was a labor of love and people worked really hard on it.”

The focus on keeping the production local didn’t stop at the people involved; 90% of the film was shot at El Dorado Hills Town Center. The support from local merchants helped the production move smoothly. They welcomed everyone involved, according to Nicknig.

“Most of the film, except for a couple scenes, was shot at Town Center,” Meyers explained. “It’s just 10 minutes from my house and I love the visual quality of the area. It’s almost like a little city and it looks great in the film.”

Thank You For Voting Us Best Breakfast!

, how could you not have a great time at the Dedier family restaurant, The Mimosa House? If you think choosing from more than 100 different varieties of mimosas is hard, try deciding which delicious item to order from the vast menu! Try a delicious breakfast or lunch starter of Toasties (French donuts covered in powdered sugar) before indulging in another decadent treat, the Island Crepe, filled with flambéed bananas, shredded coconut,

The breakfast menu also includes more than 20 omelets, 9 eggs Benedict options, plus tasty south-of-the-border food. For a more traditional lunch, check out the updated menu featuring an array of burgers, go to handhelds like their Club Sandwich and the Taco

We invite you to come on down, get lost in our endless options, treat yourself to THE Mimosa House Experience, and let us celebrate you becoming a part of our

Photo by Charlene Lane/Charm Photography Ben (Jason Kuykendall) and Melissa (Dana Brooke) have a push-pull relationship as they traverse the local music scene in the film “Not Your Year.”

Festival

wineries, community supporters and volunteers. The El Dorado Hills Art, Beer & Wine Festival will be held Saturday, May 13, and Sunday, May 14, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days with beer and wine tasting from noon to 4:30 p.m. Admittance is free and tasting glasses/ wristbands can be purchased for $35 in advance or $45 at the gate.

Returning to the festival will be nearly 60 of the region’s best artists, dozens of award-winning breweries and wineries as well as local businesses. Live entertainment will be featured at the amphitheater both days. There will also be waterfront booths with more giveaways and business specials.

Signed up to pour: 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Mraz Brewing, Boring Rose Brewing, Crystal Basin Cellars,

Events

4:30 p.m. The Bloodmobile will be located in the parking lot near the baseball fields at the EDHCSD, 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.

May

Master Gardeners of El Dorado County

Continued from A1

HayLo Wines, Medeiros Family Wines, Full Circle Brewing Company, Drink EEzy, Revision Brewing Company, Nello Olivo Winery, Golden State Cider Company, William Gunn Wines, Red Bus Brewing, Valensin Vineyard & Winery, Adkins Family Vineyards, Seismic Brewing, Original Pattern Brewing, Mellowood Vineyard, Gold Vibe Hard Kombucha, Cielo Estate Winery, Bookshelf Wines, Ace Cider, Golden Leaves Vineyard & Winery, Sierra Vista Winery, Element 79 Vineyards and Bonifacia Wines. Most of Town Center Boulevard will be closed to tra c, but businesses will be open. Attendees can enjoy food from Town Center restaurants as well as additional options via several food trucks. For more information visit eldoradohillsartfestival.org.

Continued from A2

host Controlling Weeds, 9 a.m. to noon at the Cameron Park Community Center. Learn about weeds commonly found in the home landscape, their culture and control strategies.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a Lake Forest Park Party, 5-7:30 p.m. Enjoy food, music and family-oriented activities and games at this free event.

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce hosts a Business Builder

Blender, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Western Tactical Uniform and Gear, 4505 Golden Foothill Parkway, Suite 4, in El Dorado Hills.

May 13

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a free Nature Walk at Bass Lake, 9-11 a.m. Meet at the Sellwood Field parking lot (3240 Bass Lake Road). All ages welcome. Bring water and comfortable shoes.

V illage H OMES

3001 Bird Haven Loop, Cool

2,852 square feet

3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms

5.66-acre property

Listed at $1,005,000 MLS #223025604

This Cool property is a rural delight

Find two homes on 5-plus quiet acres in Cool — a wooded retreat away from the big city.

The 2,800-square-foot main home showcases a spacious oor plan featuring vaulted ceilings, crown moulding, Brazilian cherry hardwood oors, a gas log replace, skylights and a sun room.

Stepping into the foyer, guests are greeted by the gorgeous staircase and an inviting living room with built-in shelving and cabinets as well as panoramic windows and a large glass patio door that opens onto the wraparound deck. A corner replace makes the room especially cozy.

Through a wide doorway with a glass accent is the formal dining area with an elegant chandelier and a sliding glass door leading to the deck. A pass-through window from the kitchen makes serving guests easy.

The light and bright chef’s kitchen features tile counters, a butler’s pantry, wet bar, an island with a gas cooktop, dual oven, second pantry and a breakfast nook with a glass door leading out to the deck.

Near the kitchen is a half bath and the delightful sun-

room. Head upstairs and retire to the primary suite that has a private balcony and walk-in closet. The suite’s bathroom boasts dual sinks, a stall shower and a clawfoot tub. Take advantage of having two spacious, secondary bedrooms. Also upstairs are a great home o ce, the laundry room and another full bathroom.

While relaxing on the deck or wandering the property enjoy the tranquil sound of the year-round stream and the breeze rustling the leaves on the many trees.

Other amenities on the property include a tandem garage, shed, plenty of room for horses and farm animals and RV parking.

The 1,100-square-foot second home has two bedrooms, one bathroom, a kitchenette, living area, laundry room, front porch, balcony and a spacious, un nished basement. This charming house could be used as a rental property, Airbnb, home o ce — the possibilities are endless.

Interested in a tour of this lovely Bird Haven Loop property in Cool? Contact Realtor Marilyn Go at (530) 672-4530 or visit marilyngo .com.

Marilyn Goff CalBRE #00935416 (530) 672-4530

Early Giving starts April 20th

A dentistry that aims to be a home away from home

Jessica Cyphers

Staff writer

For patients of Dale Stanec, Jr.,

DDS, going to the dentist feels a little like going home.

“We know all of our patients. They’re our friends,” said Dr. Stanec, who works alongside his wife and office manager, Elena, in his Cameron Park office. “The experience in our office is very personal. We’re very small and greet each patient by name when they walk in. It’s a comfortable, homey place to have dental work done, and we like it that way.”

Dr. Stanec has been in dentistry in the Cameron Park area since 2002. As a kid, he was “always into science and math” and loved the idea of owning his own business. “I ran a lawn-mowing business as a kid — always had some kind of business going — so becoming a dentist and owning my own practice just made sense,” said Dr. Stanec. Dr. Stanec did his undergraduate work at Cal Poly,

San Luis Obispo and then attended dental school at Northwestern University in Chicago. He graduated from Northwestern in 2001 and says that, although he was born and raised in San Jose, it was a natural draw to open his practice in the foothills. “Elena and I love this area. We had a lot of family and friends here and thought it would be a great place to raise our kids.”

In his office, Dr. Stanec offers a full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry with expertise ranging from porcelain veneers and dental implants to crowns and bridges and more. Unlike many other dentists, Dr. Stanec doesn’t employ dental hygienists or other technicians but does all of his dental work himself.

“I spend a lot of one-on-one time with my patients. It’s fun for me to do the work myself because I get to spend more time with my patients and hang out with them and really get to know them. It makes it fun to do what I do,” said Dr. Stanec.

Another advantage of keeping his practice small is that, because he sees every patient one at a time, Dr. Stanec can be very thorough and immediately answer any questions that come up. He is also able to really respect his patients’ time. “I am almost always early or on time,” said Dr. Stanec. “My patients know that, so they’re usually early or on time for their appointments, too. It’s a win win for everyone.”

Dr. Stanec is located at 3955 Cameron Park Drive — in Cameron Park. His office is right near the Goldorado Shopping Center, directly across from the new Walgreens on Palmer Drive, and is very conveniently located for all of his patients. The move is just one more way Dr. Stanec shows his commitment to providing the best possible care for his patients.

“I look forward to going to work and getting to see who’s on the schedule every day,” said Dr. Stanec.

Elena, Luis, Dale and Dr Stanec.

this way I can get to know them well.”

“I love the work that I do and am proud to do really quality work.

Originally I’d planned to be a little bigger, but then I realized I liked it this way. I really enjoy my patients and

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stanec, visit drstanec.com or call 530-676-6500.

Symphony concerts so popular, there’s a scramble for more seats

“Music does a lot of things for a lot of people,” said the late, great Aretha Franklin. “It’s transporting, for sure. It can take you right back, years back, to the very moment certain things happened in your life. It’s uplifting. It’s encouraging. It’s strengthening.”

The work of composer Sir John Williams certainly fits within that description. His work, for many of us, is a part of the soundtrack of our lives: the scores to “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” “Superman,” “Indiana Jones,” “Schindler’s List” … the list goes on and on.

The Folsom Lake Symphony knows what audiences like and always close out its season with a “pops” concert of popular music. A Williams work was

always in the mix.

However, this year, the closing two concerts in June are exclusively focused on Williams, and Williams’ work figures heavily in the free community concert this month. So many folks want tickets to these concerts that some unusual things are happening.

Twilight Delight

The free May community concert, Twilight Delight, will be a ticketed event. Tickets are free and limited to two per online applicant.

The concert is scheduled at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, May 20, at the Zittel Family Amphitheater in Folsom’s Historic District. The gates for this al fresco evening open at 7:45 p.m. There is no

n See Laird page B5

In your time of need, we promise honest, upfront pricing and will never overcharge or mislead you. We encourage you to compare our services, facilities, and fees with others and we offer preplanning services. We have proudly served the families

Susan Laird The Arts

Cafeteria Assistant

If you enjoy the beautiful outdoors and working with children, we currently have an amazing opportunity as a Cafeteria Assistant at our Sly Park Conservation and Environmental Education Center near Pollock Pines.

Starting Hourly Rate: $17.23

Click here to apply today: http://www.edjo.in/1762537

Maintenance Custodian

If you have experience performing custodial and general maintenance services and enjoy the beautiful outdoors, we currently have an amazing opportunity as a Maintenance Custodian at our Sly Park Conservation and Environmental Education Center near Pollock Pines.

Starting Hourly Rate: $20.47

Click here to apply today: http://www.edjo.in/1762538

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

Bringing birds to our gardens

Having birds in our gardens and watching them throughout the seasons brings joy and pleasure. Birds are bene cial to gardens. Why? Because when birds eat, they help control insect pests and garden weeds and they pollinate plants. To attract them, we must create a habitat that provides shelter and food. Here are several ways to provide for their needs and invite them in.

Summer Brasuel

UCCE Master Gardener of El Dorado County

Plant trees and shrubs of varying heights. Consider mounding bushes and ornamental grasses for birds such as the California towhee and its cousin, the spotted towhee, to hide under or small, medium or tall trees from which the western bluebird and ycatchers like the black phoebe or western wood peewee can hunt. Taller ground covers may provide nesting sites for our ground-nesting birds like dark-eyed juncos, hermit thrushes and California quail.

Use plants that produce fruits, berries, seeds and nectar. Many shrubs are showy year-round, with bright foliage and blossoms in spring or early summer that form berries or seeds that provide food for birds, including the gorgeous cedar waxwings which arrive in winter to feed on berries. Our natives serviceberry, Amelanchier alnifolia

and Amelanchier utahensis virburnum, Viburnum ellipticum, and toyon, Heteromeles arbutifolia, are good examples. However, care must be taken when including toyon in your garden as it is toxic to humans in su cient quantities. Trees native to El Dorado County and produce seeds or berries include dogwoods, Cornus spp., western redbud, Cercis occidentalis, and black hawthorn, Crataegus douglasii. Some great nectar-producing plants are the California fuchsia, Epilobium canum, and the many types of salvia, including Hot Lips, Salvia microphylla ‘Hot Lips’, or black and blue, Salvia microphylla ‘Black and Blue’ Install a bird bath or other water feature in your garden. Watching birds bathe through a window is delightful. Water features also attract butter ies. Hang bird feeders in the garden to round out the supply of food throughout the seasons. Hummingbird feeders, seed feeders and suet feeders all attract di erent species of birds. Contrary to popular belief, bird feeders do not interfere with migration. Provide good quality food in your feeders that birds can’t resist. There is no need to put food coloring in hummingbird nectar. Use only white granulated sugar and water at a ratio of one part

■ See GARDENER, page B8

assigned seating for this event, except for sponsor seating.

Maestro Peter Ja e and the FLS will perform cinematic and television theme favorites, including Henry Mancini’s “Pink Panther”, Williams’ “Superman” and themes from “Star Wars,” “Star Trek,” “Wonder Woman” and more.

Get your online tickets for the outdoor concert as soon as possible because this is certain to be a popular event. It may be free but even the sponsored seats are sure to sell out.

John Williams Spectacular

The nal two concerts of the season are the John Williams Spectacular event — 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 3, and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 4. Both concerts are at the Folsom Lake College Harris Center.

The FLS is taking the extraordinary measure of adding additional seating to both concerts.

“Due to the overwhelming demand for this local fan-favorite performance, stage adjustments have been made by the symphony to provide additional seating for both the Saturday evening and Sunday matinee

shows. These tickets won’t last long,” it announced on social media. Concertmaster Anita Fetsch Felix is the concerts’ featured performer in “Schindler’s List” and in Williams’ arrangement of Jerry Bock’s “Fiddler on the Roof,” which includes Williams’ original violin cadenzas.

The FLS will perform themes from “Superman,” “Jurassic Park,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and more. Visit folsomlakesymphony.com for more information and to order tickets while they are still available. May the Force be with you!

Send your event for consideration in Susan’s column to slaird@handywriting.com.

Freelance Reporters Wanted

The Mountain Democrat, California’s oldest newspaper, and Village Life newspapers are looking for community-minded reporters to take freelance assignments.

Assignments will range from news coverage to features. Freelance reporters must have interviewing skills and photography experience and be able to meet deadlines. Journalism experience preferred.

Interested candidates should email a résumé, writing and photography samples and a brief cover letter to Krysten Kellum at kkellum@mtdemocrat.net.

Salary: $16.00 per hour

FFD: Continuous recruitment. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. The Human Resources Department is currently accepting applications for open positions as Seasonal Grounds Keeper/Park Aides in the Parks and Recreation Department. This position will require weekends, holidays and possible overtime.

El Dorado Irrigation District is seeking:

Senior Information Technology Analyst

Salary: I: $8,736.92-$10,619.78 per month

FFD: Open until filled.

First review of applications on April 24, 2023.

The Human Resources Department is currently accepting applications for the position of a Senior Information Tenchnology Analyst.

For a complete job description and the REQUIRED application, please visit our website at www.eid.org or call 530-642-4074.

2890 Mosquito Road Placerville, CA 95667 Fax: (530) 622-1134

El Dorado Irrigation District is seeking:

Limited Term Utility Worker- Drinking Water

Salary: $25.10 per hour

FFD: Open until filled.

First review of applications on March 27, 2023.

The Human Resources Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Limited Term Utility Worker for an eligibility list to fill current and future positions in the Drinking Water Division of Operations. These are limited term positions; incumbents are temporary employees and are employed for a period not-to-exceed eighteen months from date of appointment.

For a complete job description and the REQUIRED application, please visit our website at www.eid.org or call 530-642-4074.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

2890 Mosquito Road Placerville, CA 95667 Fax: (530) 622-1134

Handcar, quadripede racers ready to get pumping down the track

News release

FOLSOM — Back from a two year hiatus, the 30th running of the Folsom Handcar Derby is back and set to take place May 6 & 7 on the tracks in front of Broadstone Marketplace on East Bidwell Street.

Sunday, May 7, the day starts o at 9 a.m. with the pusher’s contest where anyone wanting to push the 850-pound handcar for distance is welcome to compete. Competitors are separated by various weight classes in each of the men’s and women’s categories.

Competition picks up immediately a er with the handcar races as each team of ve has one shot to be the best in their division and set the fastest time. A handcar team consists of one pusher to get the handcar started from a dead stop and four pumpers to propel it down the tracks. Multiple divisions including men, women, co-ed and masters will face o and pump the handcar down the 800-foot track with times separated electronically by 1/1000th of a second.

The nal event is two contestants piloting the world’s only racing quadripede down the course. This

is the ninth year for this event, with the past eight years resulting in a huge success for participants and fans alike. The day ends with the medals/awards ceremony for all the competing divisions.

Saturday, May 6, is a practice day where each team is required to make one full-timed run down the course. Throughout the day there is fun for all who come to watch or race. Admission is free. All proceeds from the event bene t the Folsom, El Dorado, Sacramento Historical Railroad Association. For more information visit HandcarDerby.com or call (916) 985-6001.

Shingle Springs Cameron Park

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SHINGLE SPRINGS~CAMERON

PARK Chamber of Commerce

President’s Corner

Colette Thiel

April showers bring lots of flowers! Am I the only one that thinks we just passed over Spring? While I love the warmer days, was expecting a more gradual road to hot summer temperatures.

We start off May off with our Monthly Networking Mixer on May 4th at Netillo’s Takos in Cameron Park. Join us from 5:30-7:30pm for light appetizers and drinks plus raffle items. It’s sure to be a fun night! So, make a note to join us and bring a raffle prize, valued at $25 or more, to promote your business.

Next up is the Safety and Wellness Fair on Saturday, May 6 from 11am –3pm. Are you excited for this awesome event? Not only do we have some of the same amazing vendors as last year, but we have also almost DOUBLED the vendor list for this year. On top of our vendors, you’ll be able to greet some of your local first responders including a cool fire engine and lots of Sheriff’s office cool stuff. This is a FREE EVENT for individuals & families hosted and brought to you by our Chamber, Concerned Citizens of Cameron Park and PEAK Nutrition!

Our Monthly Networking Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, May 25th , 11:30am at Los Pinos. Our Guest Speaker is Kathy Dunkak, the CEO of the El Dorado County Fair Association. We invite you to come meet Kathy and hear what exciting things are happening at this years fair. The cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members and space is limited.

BIG NEWS!! THUNDER IN THE PARK is back in 2023! This classic car show was originally held in June but due to the pandemic was moved to

October. We are back with our original weekend. So, mark your calendar for Saturday, June 10th, 8am -3pm at Cameron Park Lake. This is a fun event for the whole family! We have SOLD OUT the past several years and expect the same for 2023.

THANK YOU to our Platinum Sponsor- Kniesels Collision, Gold Sponsor- Geneva Financial, Silver Sponsor – Marshall Hospital and Bronze Sponsor – Solis Collision. Just added to our sponsorship level is Sign Sponsor – For $100 you will receive an 18x24” stake sign with your company logo that will be on display at Thunder in the Park. Registrations for vehicle entry, vendor & food booths/trucks is now open at https://www. sscpchamber.org/thunder-in-the-park-car-show-2/.

April was another month of growth for our Chamber. Our new member count keeps growing and renewals for our Chamber are booming. Our Board of Directors and Ambassadors are our visiting current and potential new members. We have lofty membership goals this year. I look forward to meeting many more business owners in my second year as President. I continue to have an open-door policy and encourage ALL our members to get involved. And if you know a business that should be a member, we’d love the opportunity to talk with them.

Happy May!

Colette Thiel, President SSCP Chamber of Commerce

The SS/CP Chamber Needs Volunteers!

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce needs volunteers to spend a few hours a month helping the chamber with its events and management.  The payback is helping your local business advocates support the community in which

MAY Events

they live and serve, while striving to make Shingle Springs and Cameron Park wonderful places in which to live!  We have several key positions opening right now.  Get involved today!  Please contact Colette Thiel@ ThielHomes.com for more information.

Shingle Springs Cameron Park

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo and Memorial Day!

May 12-14

The Golden Road Gathering

A multi-day outdoor music gathering brought to you by your friends at Marco’s Cafe, Sacred Roots, and the creators of Hangtown Halloween Ball. This three-day event will feature a wide range of headliners, bands, and can’t-miss music. Ample camping space, plenty of RV hookups, onsite parking. For tickets: https://www.tixr.com/groups/ goldenroadgathering/events/the-golden-roadgathering-58096

May 13-14

EDH Art, Beer and Wine Festival

MAY (Fridays to Sundays)

CP Rotary Club Observatory

From 8:30pm to 10:30 pm, weather permitting, the observatory is open to the public on weekend evenings. Trained docents show the many celestial wonders of the universe through two 14-inch telescopes. Folsom Lake College, El Dorado Center, Campus Drive (continue through the back parking lots to the left of the observatory gate). For info and closure updates, call (530) 642-5621, Ext. 9.

MAY

Support Small Businesses To Keep It Local!

Shop locally by visiting the various shops and restaurants in El Dorado County!

May 4th – SS/CP Chamber Mixer

Come mix and mingle at the monthly Chamber Mixer, to be held at Netillo’s Takos, 3328 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. Time is 5:30-7:30pm. Contact the Chamber for more information at (530) 6778000.

The Shingle Springs/Cameron Park Chamber

Free Admission! Unlimited Tasting Tickets are valid 12 noon - 4:30 PM Saturday OR Sunday Save up to $15 each by ordering your Unlimited Tasting Tickets now! Ticket sales at the Festival are $45 each. For tickets, visit eldoradohillsartfestival.org

May 20 – Third Saturday

Placerville Art Walk

Historic Downtown Placerville. Main Street galleries and merchants host changing art shows and late night shopping every third Saturday of the month. Demonstrations, refreshments, music and more. Placerville Downtown Association, 376 Main St., Placerville. Read more on EventCrazy.com.

May 24

SS/CP Chamber Networking Luncheon

Please join us at Los Pinos, 3420 Palmer Dr., Cameron Park from 11:30am to 1:00pm for our monthly networking luncheon! The guest speaker will be Tom McClintock, US Representative. The event is sponsored by Blissful Gardens. Contact the Chamber for more details at (530) 677-8000.

June 15-18

El Dorado County Fair

Don’t miss the annual El Dorado County Fair on June 15-18, 2023. This year’s theme is Country Nights and Carnival Lights and promises all the family fun and excitement you know and love. Think mutton bustin’, live interactive exhibits, musical performances, clown college, free train rides, and even a funnel cake eating contest! http:// eldoradocountyfair.org/fair.html

Professional Association, Inc. in December 1967. It works

investment to provide the foundation for a solid community.

The Chamber’s mission statement re ects this premise: “To advocate, promote

life

our Chamber Community, by means of a strong, healthy and diverse business community.”

sugar to four parts water; other sweeteners can cause illnesses in hummingbirds. Other birds like sugar water too, like the bright yellow Bullock’s oriole, lesser gold nch, ashy western tanager and even the occasional acorn woodpecker.

Seed feeders can attract birds like nuthatches, chickadees, nches, sparrows and the brightly colored singing virtuoso, the black-headed grosbeak.

Now that we’ve invited them in, the big question is: which birds should we try to keep out of gardens? Attracting birds to your edible garden may not be the best plan. Grosbeaks love fruit of all kinds, nches love sun ower leaves and seeds and many birds love pretty much any young sprout as it comes out of the ground. But protecting an edible garden from birds and other critters will have to be covered in a whole other article.

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

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

Classes/?calendar=yes&g=56698 and recorded classes on many gardening topics at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu/Public_Education/ Classes. Have a gardening question? Master Gardeners are working hard to answer your questions. Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website, mgeldorado.ucanr.edu, or leave a message on the o ce telephone at (530) 621-5512. To sign up for notices and newsletters visit ucanr.edu/master_gardener_enews. Master Gardeners are also on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

Photo by Summer Brasuel Trees and shrubs of varying heights make great perches for local birds.