Village Life, Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Apartments pitched at EDH 52

“I know of the general changes being made (removal of storage units and large retail center with fueling islands to multi-family apartment units and a small commercial center), but not of the details,” he wrote in an email. “I’m hesitant to comment until I can review the details.”

apartment complex (north site) and retail space on 18.26 acres along Silva Valley Parkway in El Dorado Hills, across the street from the proposed Costco warehouse (south site). The project site is adjacent to Highway 50, north of the freeway and next to the Serrano residential community.

“The north site is comprised of 14,000 square feet of retail uses within two single-story buildings, 304 multi-family units within ve four-story buildings … a single-story clubhouse and associated amenities,” notes the application.

District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl brie y mentioned the revised project at Monday evening’s El Dorado Hills Community Council meeting. He later told the Mountain Democrat he had not yet fully reviewed the most-recent application.

Fielding questions about the entire EDH 52 project Monday, Hidahl said the developer has spent the last several months working on its latest proposal and the next step, now that a revised application has been submitted, will be the issuance of a notice of preparation for the new environmental documents required.

When asked why AKT was set on the Highway 50-adjacent parcel for Costco, Hidahl pointed to the intersection’s favorable tra c ow.

“They looked at a number of locations … (representatives of) the Missouri Flat Road area tried to recruit Costco to come up. Costco looked at that intersection and the tra c circulation around there and said no thank you,” the supervisor explained.

“The reason that they like Silva Valley Parkway

Fire captain wraps up special training

Tina Crevier FEMA

Rescue Fire Protection District Capt. Brett Jones has completed the Managing O cer program, announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s U.S. Fire Administration/National Fire Academy . The Managing O cer program’s goals are to promote and enhance the professional growth of re service leadership while preparing future leaders through ■ See APARTMENTS page A2 ■ See JONES page A4

Courtesy photo

Former Rescue/current EDH Fire Chief Maurice Johnson, current Interim Rescue Fire Chief Bryan Ransdell, Fire Capt. Brett Jones and former Rescue Fire Chief Tom Keating, left to right, celebrate Jones’ training effort.

What’s happening

July 20

El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts Live on the Boulevard free concerts every Thursday. The schedule features Joy & Madness (July 20), Maroon Vibes (July 27), Island of Black and White (Aug. 3), Kalimba (Aug. 10), Petty Theft (Aug. 17) Stevie Ray Visited (Aug. 24), Folsom Lake Symphony (Aug. 31) and Uptown Funk (Sept. 7). Set up begins at 5:30 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

July 21

The Sierra Renaissance Society invites members and the public to a free Ice Cream Social, 1-2:30 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Club, 4701 Missouri Flat Road. Board members will serve at least two flavors of ice cream with toppings for sundaes and answer questions about the organization and members’ commitment to lifelong learning. Music will also be provided.

July 22

World Famous Barber Jon partners with El Dorado Saloon in El Dorado Hills for an arm wrestling competition at the saloon. Weigh-in starts at noon and the tournament begins at 2 p.m. The tournament will raise funds to help homeless veterans. The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Posse presents a BBQ fundraiser, 4-10 p.m. at Serene Ranch in Placerville. Enjoy a tri-tip and chicken dinner, dancing and a live auction. For tickets and more information visit eventbrite.com/e/ el-dorado-countysheriffs-bbq-tickets-646772894137.

July 24

Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive noon to 4 p.m. The Bloodmobile in the parking lot near the baseball fields at the El Dorado Hills Community Services District, 1021 Harvard Way. Donors are encouraged to 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.

July 26

The Shingle SpringsCameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking luncheon at Moonraker Brewing Co. at 11:30 a.m. For res-

n See events page A4

July 20, 2023

By Noel Stack

What’s your favorite way to beat the heat?

“I get everything done early in the morning and then relax in the air conditioning.”

“I don’t mind the heat, actually. I like to go out for a hike.”

“The swimming pool.”

EDHCSD directors put incorporation on ice

Noel Stack Managing editor

Citing a delay in getting stakeholders’ meetings set up due to summer vacations and need for additional public support, the El Dorado Hills Community Services District’s Board of Directors once again delayed a decision on pursuing EDH incorporation.

“We still do have a lot of work to do on our part,” said Board Chair Noelle Mattock. “Right now I don’t think it’s clearly defined what kind of city we want to be … and we haven’t had those conversations.”

Director Steve Ferry, who ran for the board on a pro-incorporation platform, said the EDHCSD needs to move forward and applauded the newly formed Citizens for Cityhood, which has begun a fundraising campaign. However, Ferry noted, more outreach must be done before the board initiates a comprehensive analysis and the El Dorado Local Agency Formation Commission process.

“I’m not going to make that motion tonight,” Ferry told the audience.

EDHCSD General Manager

Kevin Loewen earlier this year presented the cost estimate of $970,000 to $1.2 million to launch an environmental analysis, cover LAFCO

Apartments

expenses, send out communications to the public and utilize legal counsel to help with the incorporation process.

Speakers at the July 13 meeting were split on whether the EDHCSD should take on the effort.

“There’s overwhelming support for this in the community right now,” said Blackstone resident Marcus Worthington. “The appetite is there.”

“We need to take control of El Dorado Hills, keep our money and our services in El Dorado Hills,” added Whitney Worthington, Marcus’ wife.

But Heritage resident George Steed called incorporation “a project that never dies ... and there are other priorities this board needs to be paying attention to.”

Steed encouraged the board to stick to its current mission of providing services and amenities to El Dorado Hills residents and let individuals passionate about incorporation take on that task.

Director Mike Martinelli commented that he thought communication about all the benefits of cityhood has fallen short and he’s content continuing that outreach at this time. Directors voted 3-0 to bring the issue back in 90 days. Directors Heidi Hannaman and Ben Paulsen were not present at Thursday evening’s meeting.

and that site is because it’s a level of service area A intersection. It won’t be when they’re done but right now it is,” he explained. “It’s the most free-flowing intersection of anywhere in El Dorado County.”

A resident at the meeting predicted the development would “create havoc” in the area if built. In addition to being adjacent to the Serrano development, the north site shares a border with Oak Meadow Elementary School.

Hidahl said the public will have several opportunities to comment as EDH 52 moves forward through the county’s planning process.

The revised plan will require the north

“I love the (EDH) summer concerts, finding a shady spot and enjoying them with friends.”

“Go swimming or to Lake Tahoe.”

Drivers: expeCt DeLays

News release

El Dorado County’s Department of Transportation, in conjunction with GP Development and GradeTek Inc., will implement nightly lane closures on Saratoga Way between Arrowhead Drive and Finder’s Way starting at 7 p.m. and ending by 6 a.m. the following day.

Night work is scheduled to occur nightly, tentatively ending the morning of Saturday, Sept. 2. Any changes to the scheduled end of work will be reflected by on-site signage.

Construction work will occur on Saratoga Way west of El Dorado Hills Boulevard with one lane remaining open at all times while work is under way. Reversing traffic control will be conducted with flagging stations and appropriate signage. Access to Arrowhead Drive and Finder’s Way will remain open during construction. Vehicles will be directed to use a single lane while traveling through the construction zone, with all lanes re-opening each morning by 6 a.m.

The Saratoga Way night work will allow for the installation of water, sewer and storm water infrastructure to support the new medical office building currently under construction while maintaining a safe work zone for the construction crews and minimizing traffic impacts.

Motorists are advised to slow down through the work zone and expect delays during construction. Motorists are also advised to allow extra time when traveling through the work zone in order to arrive at their destinations on time or use alternate routes to avoid the construction area.

For more information regarding this construction project contact the county’s Department of Transportation main line at (530) 621-5900 (select Option 3 for Engineering).

Continued from B1

site parcel be rezoned from commercial residential-planned development to residential medium density-planned development.

The developer’s goal, as written in the application, is to “develop a high-quality planned mixed-use development on vacant and underutilized land adjacent to Highway 50 adequately served by public services and utilities that has been zoned for development by El Dorado County for more than 30 years.”

The application notes architectural and landscaping design elements will “soften the scale and mass of the buildings, create a pleasant and attractive appearance and complement the surrounding area.” Due to the

topography, structures will be located 8-10 feet above Silva Valley Parkway.

Other north site project features included in the application are off-street parking for customers, employees and residents (65 stalls for the retail portion and 565 stalls for the apartment project); new traffic signals at Silva Valley Parkway and the project’s main entrance and at Silva Valley Parkway and former Clarksville Road; and a retaining wall built from rock excavated at the site during construction. A 6.57-acre area of the north site will be set aside for the future extension of Country Club Drive, which currently ends at Bass Lake Road.

peOpLe taLK

John thompson El Dorado Hills

Carl Daniel

El Dorado Hills

Dave Maestas

El Dorado Hills

Jeannie Benoist

El Dorado Hills

axel hannaman El Dorado Hills

CRIB NOTES by Julie Samrick

Watch ‘Sound of Freedom’

What does freedom sound like? It’s the carefree sound of children laughing. Also depicted in the eponymous new movie, the ‘Sound of Freedom’ is a little girl singing and creating music from her bedroom, free to express herself. It is based on the true story of a humble American hero named Tim Ballard. He worked as an undercover agent for the Department of Homeland Security and risked literally everything to combat child tra cking. This story centers on one of his many cases: very young Honduran brother-sister siblings whose father takes them to a talent audition only to nd his children have been kidnapped.

According to DHS, human tra cking involves the use of force, fraud or coercion to obtain some type of labor or sex act. Tra ckers use violence, manipulation, false promises of well-paying jobs and romantic relationships to lure victims. Tra ckers look for people who are easy targets for a variety of reasons and because children are our most vulnerable, they are the most likely victims. The 2021 Federal Human Tra cking Report stated that 57% of U.S. human tra cking victims are minors. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, approximately 350,000 children are reported missing every year in the United States. Of that total, an estimated 100,000 are being tra cked.

Human tra cking is a $150-billion-a-year criminal enterprise, more than the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL combined. It has surpassed the illegal arms trade and is roughly a third of the size of the drug trade. The United States is one of the top destinations for human tra cking and is among the largest consumers of child sex.

It took ve years for this movie to make it to the big screen. Because advertising is mostly word of mouth due to its lack of funding, it is uncertain how long it

MESSAGE FROM EID by

will be available in theaters. It doesn’t depict actual exploitation of children, but the actor who plays Ballard, Jim Caviezel, deserves an Oscar for his portrayal. His eyes and facial expressions alone will make you alternately weep and swell with anger. As for Ballard’s inexhaustible dedication, it’s summed up best when Caviezel says, “God’s children are not for sale.”

Up against what he could accomplish under DHS, in 2013 Ballard founded Operation Underground Railroad, a nonpro t organization that rescues children from sex tra cking and sexual exploitation. According to the O.U.R website, the team can work in any jurisdiction and alongside law enforcement to rescue children directly. They have reportedly been involved in more than 4,000 rescue operations and 6,500 arrests. Ballard likens “Sound of Freedom” to the eye-opening realities of slavery and the humanity of enslaved people Americans rst experienced through stories like Harriet Beecher Stowe’s “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”

Despite Ballard’s work, things are only getting worse when it comes to child tra cking. There has been a 5,000% increase in child pornography being circulated on the Internet in the past ve years alone. Though our southern border has become a political lightning rod, Ballard believes the only compassionate border policy is border enforcement because illegal border crossings have made human tra cking more pervasive. “In the last couple of years at least 85,000 unaccompanied minors under 5 years old have shown up at the border,” he explained. “Having walls and barriers lead the children who are being hurt into a funnel of rescue. Trained women and men in uniform are there.”

The well-being of children is what I am most passionate about and I thought I had a grasp on most

Jim Abercrombie

Reinvesting in vital services

er a remarkably mild spring, summer is here and in full swing. Signi cant winter and spring storms created a snowpack that melted slowly — just as we want it. From a water supply point of view, things are looking strong not only for 2023 but also for carryover supplies into 2024.

As I contemplate the many projects the El Dorado Irrigation District undertakes every year to maintain and rehabilitate an aging and costly system, I think about the complexity of the system that ensures our customers receive reliable and safe drinking water, wastewater treatment or recycled water irrigation services.

A water system as large and complex as EID’s with more than 1,300 miles of pipeline, 36 storage reservoirs, 250 pressure reducing stations and 38 pump stations requires regular rehabilitation and repair. Those pump stations, tanks and corresponding pressurereducing stations are key to moving water up and down the beautiful Sierra foothills.

All those facilities — including the equally complex network of infrastructure that our wastewater treatment and recycled water services rely on, as well as our federally licensed hydroelectric project with ve dams and 22 miles of canal, umes, tunnels and siphons — require regular and sustained reinvestment so our services can remain safe, secure and reliable.

In recent years the infrastructure of our water and wastewater systems has been under considerable strain. We have been diligently working to address these challenges, implementing operating budget cuts, deferring some preventative maintenance and reducing the cost of planned infrastructure replacement projects by $23 million in the recent ve-year capital improvement program. Unfortunately, these short-term savings can result in long-term costs so each cut is evaluated carefully to ensure we carefully manage risk — both in terms of operational reliability and eventual replace-

ment costs.

Yet, even with these proactive measures, it has become necessary to adjust rates for water, recycled water and wastewater in the coming years. The current cost-of-service e ort is identifying exactly what those needs are and what ve-year schedule of rate adjustments will be necessary to adequately fund EID’s vital operations for each of its services. The cost-ofservice analysis will also help us map out how to manage these rising costs and boost funds for the crucial task of capital replacement.

Rate increases are not an arbitrary decision. They are a vital step to ensure the reliable and safe operations of our water, wastewater and recycled water systems as well as implement the necessary replacement of aging infrastructure and maintain or improve service levels. Without additional rate funds — your investment in your community infrastructure — EID will fall short of its nancial targets: funding daily operations, meeting bond obligations and maintaining adequate cash reserves. These increases, while di cult, are essential for the continued safety and reliability of our services. The increases will be in line with the cost of providing our services and no more. That is a legal requirement of the Proposition 218 process. This additional rate revenue will be put on the ground immediately. For example, over the next ve years there are plans for more than $35 million to be invested in water service line and water line replacement replacements.

In addition to the required investment to replace aging infrastructure, the Caldor Fire’s devastation in 2021 highlighted the urgency of our ongoing program of replacing wooden umes in the district’s 22-mile canal and ume system with resilient concrete structures.

■ See SAMRICK, page A4

■ See ABERCROMBIE, page A4

issues concerning children, including human trafficking, thanks to 3Strands Global Foundation, which was founded after an El Dorado Hills teenager was trafficked for eight days before being rescued in 2008. What I didn’t understand until watching this movie with my teenage daughters is how young many of the victims are, including babies and toddlers. I also didn’t know there are more enslaved people today than at any

Continued from A3

other time in history. Watching this movie is one small way we can make a dent together.

The National Human Trafficking Hotline is available 24/7 by calling (888) 373-7888 or texting INFO to 233733.

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.”

a combination of education and linking people and ideas. Participants receive instruction on leadership, community risk reduction, firefighter and community safety, contemporary training issues and analytical tools for decision making. Students also gain critical insight concerning national response planning/ incident management.

This important two-year program comprises four unique courses requiring the participant to develop and complete a Capstone project directly benefiting the fire officer’s department and com-

ervations and more information call (530) 677-8000.

July 29

Dr. Paul Sunseri, clinical psychologist, hosts a free mental health workshop for parents, at the El Dorado Hills Library, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Parents only, please. To register visit parentworkshop.eventbrite.com.

Aug. 2

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce hosts a Business Builder Buffet, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hills Church. The guest speaker will be Congressman Tom McClintock. RSVP online at eldoradohillschamber.org or call (916) 933-1335.

Now

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents

Abercrombie

Wastewater facilities will also see needed investment, with $10 million in planned upgrades to wastewater lift stations and more than $22 million for pipeline replacements. Continued work like this is critical to our community sewage conveyance and treatment system, ensuring wastewater can be effectively transported, treated and disposed of at our wastewater treatment plants. Undoubtedly these decisions and financial adjustments will not be easy. However, they are essential for the future of our water and wastewater services. We owe it to ourselves and the generations to come to support and understand these necessary changes. In the coming weeks the cost-of-service analysis will review in more detail these needed changes transparently and openly. Visit our dedicated page on the district website to view some of this information. EID’s connection to the community it serves is personal, not just professional.

munity. This capstone project permits the student an opportunity to demonstrate application of course theory and concepts to real-life situations. The final project is then evaluated through a formal peer review.

The NFA offers programs and courses for fire service leaders, managers and allied professions. Courses are delivered at the Emmitsburg, Md., campus and throughout the nation in coordination with state and local fire training officials, colleges and universities. For more details visit usfa.fema.gov.

“Seussical Kids” through July 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents Monty Python’s “Spamalot” through Aug. 13. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre. com.

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

Cars and Coffee invites car people to meet up and hang out the first and second Saturday mornings of each month, 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.”

Continued from A3

As employees of the district, we are your neighbors, your friends and your family. We live and work in our community, experiencing first-hand the impact of rate adjustments and we do not take these changes lightly.

Our commitment is that every dollar you invest in us will be stewarded with the utmost care, discretion and transparency. This principle isn’t something new. It has guided us since our formation as a special district nearly a century ago and will continue to lead our way into the future. As we navigate these necessary rate adjustments, we aim to maintain a balance between providing high-quality services and respecting your hard-earned investments through rate payments. Together, as your community agency, we will build a future that supports a resilient and sustainable future for another 100 years and beyond.

Jim Abercrombie is general manager of EID.

Celebrating Your Winners!

Best Sandwich Best Pet Groomer: Dog’s Delight

Best SandwichGift of Kids Daycare and Preschool

As you pass the Purple Place on Green Valley Road in El Dorado Hills, you have likely noticed a small building at the edge of the road — home of Dog’s Delight owned by Jamie McNally.

She adds a touch of whimsy to her establishment with the display of several types of life-sized stuffed dog breeds that are decorated for the seasons.

McNally and her staff offer one-stop grooming services for dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes. Her shop is very easily accessed with ample parking to drop off and pick up your pet. So, stop by and see why Dog’s Delight is voted No. 1. Get your furry friend’s nails trimmed or treat them to a beautiful makeover. Walk-ins are always welcomed.

Best Sandwich Best Massage: Massage Envy

Massage is a great way to keep your body moving and keep doing the things you love. For a massage that will leave you relaxed and feeling your best long after getting off the table, head to Massage Envy in El Dorado Hills Town Center. Since 2007, clients have enjoyed the therapeutic and soothing techniques of knowledgeable and skilled professionals.

“They not only understand the benefits of massage, they genuinely care about people,” owner Laurie Vaqueiro said of her staff. Massage Envy El Dorado Hills has 29 service providers ready to help you take care of yourself. Ask about their Total Body Stretch and Advanced Skin Care services while scheduling your next appointment.

Best Flooring: Sacramento Area Wood Specialists

We offer education and care for babies, Preschoolers, Pre-K, private Kindergarten, homework tutor club and transportation for school agers. The teachers at The Gift of Kids Daycare and Preschool include talent that brings us music, yoga, and even Spanish on a daily basis. Teachers here are all educated in child development, CPR and First Aid certified, and make it a priority to continue their education. Over the years, not only have we focused on love and education here at the school, but we have also been involved in sponsoring many local non-profit groups

Best Bakery & Cakes: Yellow Button Bakery

When you’re searching for delicious, gluten-free treats, look no further than Yellow Button Bakery. Owner and baker Brenda McDavid saw a need and decided to fill it. She launched her new bakery business out of her own kitchen. Customers can enjoy Brenda’s delicious gluten-free treats in several local haunts: Foxwood Coffee and Tea in Shingle Springs, Caffé Santoro in Diamond Springs and Sweet Pairings in Placerville. You can also meet her at the farmers market in front of the Bell Tower in Placerville, June through October. Brenda also offers dairy-free and vegan choices. “My favorite things to bake are your favorite things to eat.”

Best Sandwich Best Roofing: Nail It Roofing

Sacramento Area Wood Specialists specializes in the installation of pre-finished hardwood, laminate, carpet and vinyl flooring in both the residential and commercial environment.

Installing flooring since 1993 has given the company’s staff many years of experience in both remodels and new construction.

Sacramento Area Wood Specialists has built many great relationships over the years and continues to work with many of the area’s investors, Realtors, property managers, retail shops, large area production builders as well as countless homeowners and numerous custom builders — no job is too big or too small.

Best SandwichBest Contractor: Straight Line Construction

Serving the El Dorado County area since 1999, Jack Borba’s commitment to quality and hard work has helped Straight Line Construction grow tremendously in a relatively short time. The company now offers residential services for roof replacement and repairs, windows, skylights, gutter systems, decks and siding. Straight

ability

view

samples, textures and colors in easing their remodeling process. Borba and his team also give back to the community in hosting fundraisers and supporting the food bank.

Brothers Aaron and Christopher Meyer entered the roofing trade by working in all capacities — from laborer to superintendent, project manager and estimator.

This gives Nail It Roofing customer the advantage of accurate bids and expert management over all aspects of their projects. Nail It Roofing is committed to providing the best possible service with seasoned professionals using the highest-quality products to ensure customers are satisfied with the quality of service. Considering much of their business is obtained through word of mouth, that says a lot.

Best Sandwich Best Financial Planner: Shari Merle, LPL Financial

builds relationships that span generations. “I still work with some of my original clients and now I’m working with their kids,” she said, a testament to her ethics, honesty and integrity. A former tax preparer, Shari offers a unique perspective. “I understand taxes and how they affect your finances,” she explained. She and her son Steve are both Certified Financial Planners and are fully licensed for stocks, bonds and life insurance products. You can rest assured that she will be true to her personal motto, “No matter what, I do what’s right for the client, not for me.”

Celebrating Your Winners!

Best Pet Supply Store: Ben’s Barketplace

For Kristine Lacy and business partner Mark Delgado, getting into the pet food industry was a no-brainer, especially when it came to choosing a franchise like Ben’s Barketplace. “We strive to provide the most accurate and up-to-date nutritional information to our customers,” Lacy said.

Ben’s Barketplace carries only high-quality dog and cat food. Lacy and her crew are able to create a meal plan to help pet owners deal with their cat’s and dog’s individual issues, such as itching, scratching, vomiting, diarrhea and other discomforts. They also take on picky eaters.

Best SandwichBest Private School: Golden Hills School

Best SandwichBest Painting Contractor: E. Durst Painting

35-plus years of experience to customers.

Ernie said he feels blessed to serve the wonderful residents of El Dorado County and hires locally in hopes of becoming a desired employer organization. What he likes most are residential repaints and the relationships he builds with homeowners.

“As an organization, we have committed from the start to providing the best possible coatings, quality of workmanship and service at a competitive price,” he said. “We keep our overhead costs low and pass those savings onto the customer. Thank you for your choice in our company as the best of El Dorado Hills. We are so honored and look forward to continuing to serve you.”

Big Apple Bagels

the best version of themselves children require the broadest possible set of opportunities delivered by fully accredited teaching professionals in small-group settings. Students participate in academic endeavors, athletics and the arts. Daily physical education, art, music, computer science and Spanish language instruction are integrated into the curriculum. GHS is the only International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program Candidate Private School in the area.

Ultimately, the team believes their eighth-graders graduate with a set of competencies that far exceed their typically excellent performance in standardized tests.

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 and locals already swear by favorites such as the traditional Pad Thai, spicy Drunken Noodles and curries. Round out a meal with some Thai fried rice and iced tea and your taste buds will know they’re in paradise.

Best SandwichBest Assisted Living Facility: EDH Senior Care

Sandwich lovers know they’re getting the best at Big Apple Bagels, a restaurant known for fresh bagels made from scratch daily. Whether ordering sensational, hot breakfast bagel sandwiches (Southern Tradition is a local favorite) or biting into a delicious choice from the lunch sandwich menu (try the turkey and havarti), customers delight in the satisfying taste of quality — all the time, every time.

“All our ingredients are fresh,” said owner Scott Walters, who opened Big Apple Bagels in June 2015.

In addition to great sandwiches, the eatery offers delicious pastries, coffee and more.

Best Sandwich Best Mexican Food: La Cascada

dining in or taking out. Offering everything from seafood — try their delicious grilled Fish Tacos or Mariscos Mojo de Ajo with sautéed shrimp or scallops — to vegetarian bites (like the Vegi Macho Burrito), this restaurant is sure to fill you up. The Tacos Alambre, with three grilled corn tortillas, choice of meat plus bacon, cheese, onion and jalapeños, are a local favorite if you’re craving more traditional Mexican cuisine.

La Cascada is open seven days a week for dinner and for lunch on weekdays with breakfast items available on weekends. Catering is also offered as well as playing host for special events.

Best Sandwich

2920 Tam O’Shanter Drive El Dorado Hills (916) 939-0962 eldoradoseniorcare.com

staple in El Dorado Hills since 1996. Offering 24-hour care for the elderly in a quaint, homelike environment, the facility has six beautiful, comfortable homes that have been designed and built specifically for care of the elderly in need of assistance. Each home houses up to six residents and private backyards connect each home to another.

A nursing support program is offered in the care facility’s list of services that also include everything from daily exercise to hospice care. Staff also keeps residents busy with activities suited for their needs, including bingo, arts and crafts, dog therapy and outings.

customers coming back year after year. With so many COVID restrictions let the experts at El Dorado Hills Travel help with all your travel needs. Some requirements of COVID-19 testing might be needed before you go and on return. El Dorado Hills Travel is a premier, full-service agency, specializing in cruises and leisure travel for families, corporations, groups and more. When you’re ready for a getaway or a family cruise, take a short trip to El Dorado Hills Travel and let Genny Arietta and her team help you plan your dream vacation.

V illage H OMES

Patricia Seide CalDRE #00892540 (916) 712-1617

Patricia.Seide@ cbnorcal.com

2538 Orsay Way, El Dorado Hills

3,083 square feet

3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths

0.307-acre property

Price available upon request MLS #223031474

Stunning single-story home in EDH

This elegant, single-story Serrano Country Club home sits on a spacious corner lot in El Dorado Hills.

Enter through the gated courtyard, featuring a gas replace — a cozy and private spot to spend evenings catching up with friends.

The foyer opens to the formal dining/living room adorned with an impressive chandelier. Gleaming hardwood oors grace the sitting room/o ce, which provides a seamless connection to the front courtyard.

The home’s great room boasts a gas replace with stunning stacked-stone surround, complemented by exquisite cabinetry and beautiful tile ooring. It e ortlessly ows into the chef’s kitchen that showcases a striking U-shaped bar that o ers plenty of seating area to observe the chef as they take advantage of other kitchen amenities, including a stainless-steel refrigerator, Thermador sixburner gas stove, dual ovens, under-counter lighting, generous cabinetry, a built-in desk, dishwasher and butler’s pantry. The family dining area opens to the backyard, allowing for seamless indoor/outdoor entertaining.

The home has three bedroom suites. Unwind in the owner’s suite, featuring lush carpeting, plantation shutters, built-

in cabinetry and backyard access. The suite’s spa-like bathroom has a sunken tub, large walk-in shower, dual vanities and a walk-in closet with custom cabinetry. Of the two additional bedroom suites with walkin closets, one is over-sized with a spacious sitting area and each has a full bathroom. Other home amenities include a laundry room with a sink and storage cabinets, a central vacuum and an attached, three-car garage with built-in cabinets and epoxy oors. Residents and guests will love gathering in the well-maintained backyard with multiple patio areas, a built-in barbecue and a refreshing pool accentuated by soothing water features. The pool has an electric cover to ensure the water stays sparkling.

The front yard features a lush lawn, a burgeoning shade tree and manicured shrubs.

Serrano Country Club o ers luxury living with an awardwinning golf course, miles of walking trails and pristine parks.

Interested in a private tour of this lovely Orsay Way property in El Dorado Hills? Contact Realtor Pat Seide at (916) 712-1617, patricia.seide@cbnorcal.com.

Local athlete selected to train with U.S. Rowing

Chris Torchiana Special to Village Life

Grace Torchiana, Oak Ridge High School class of 2024, has been selected to train in the U.S. Rowing Selection Development Camp. Torchiana, a rising senior, is one of 44 U19 women selected by U.S. Rowing to train this summer. The camp, which commenced June 18, is an important layer of the rowing program.

SDC is the bridge phase between development and the U19 National Team Selection Camp. It serves to identify and invest in rowing’s top young athletes and support U.S. Rowing’s future National Teams. The camp pairs skill work with performance based training and racing to enhance the age-appropriate development of rowers and coxswains.

The program involves three weeks of training, with signi cant focus paid to long-term athlete development and instilling the skills necessary for future success in the U19 and U23 system. The nal week is testing all of the hard work at the US Rowing Summer Youth National Championship.

At Summer Nationals Torchiana and her fellow rowers won gold (Women’s Open 8+) and bronze (U19 Youth Women’s 8+). They also took fourth place in U23 Women’s 2- and sixth place in U19 Youth Women’s 4+ in those nal races.

This is Torchiana’s second year of selection and participation. In 2022 she was selected and attended Youth Development Camp held at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota, Fla. Torchiana trained successfully under several coaches, including Weston Cole of UCLA/Newport Athletic Club and distinguished herself in the ODP Cup, winning gold in four of four races where she was boated and stroked the 8+ and the 4+ in both the U17 age group and open categories.

Torchiana is a varsity rower for Capital Crew Youth Rowing in Gold River. Capital Crew is a very successful nonpro t competitive youth rowing organization of the Sacramento State Aquatic Center in existence since 1989. Capital Crew draws on high-schoolage athletes from area schools to roster the team. training for the fall 2023 season begins Aug. 21.

In addition to youth rowing, Torchiana is an Italian Honors student, a member of ORHS chapter of the National Honor Society, a ve-year member and former Merci Award winner with National Charity League – El Dorado Hills Chapter and a sports photographer since 2021 with ORHS Trojan Pride Sports Marketing.

Torchiana said she looks forward to her senior year at Oak Ridge and ultimately hopes to pursue her athletic and academic goals with a NCAA Division I university.

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Play (volley)ball

News release

Registration is open for the U.S. Youth Volleyball League 2023 fall leagues. These signature programs provide a fun, safe and supervised environment for boys and girls to learn and play volleyball.

The Folsom USYVL program runs Sept. 14 through Nov. 4, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursdays and 10-11 a.m. Saturdays at John Kemp Community Park in Folsom.

The eight-week fall leagues provide instruction to boys and girls ages 7-15 designed to teach basic volleyball skills in a positive environment. Practices and games operate in a coed format and o er participants the opportunity to develop self-esteem and condence.

The registration fee includes a uniform T-shirt and participation medal for each participant. For information on registration, programs, locations or schedules visit usyvl.org or contact representatives at (888) 9887985 or info@usyvl.org.

Maintenance Custodian - $19.49 hr. Click here to apply today: http://www.edjo.in/1807592

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

Lonestar brings country hits to Harris Center

Ed Sengstack Harris Center for the Arts

FOLSOM — Harris Center for the Arts presents country music legend Lonestar at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 30.

Not every musician has the opportunity to revisit and even potentially improve upon their biggest hits. But on the forthcoming “TEN to 1” album, the award-winning band Lonestar — Dean Sams (keyboards, acoustic guitar, background vocals), Michael Britt (lead guitarist, background vocals ), Keech Rainwater (drums) and Drew Womack (lead vocals, guitar) — takes a fresh look at all 10 of the band’s chart-topping country songs. This streak started in 1996 with the rockedged “No News” and continued with the following year’s “Come Cryin’ to Me” and “Everything’s Changed.” The band’s quadrupleplatinum 1999 album “Lonely Grill” spawned four No. 1 hits (including

the beloved global smash “Amazed”) and established Lonestar as music’s preeminent pop-country band — a status maintained through the 2000s and beyond thanks to songs full of energy and creative lyrics (“What About Now”) and (“Mr. Mom”), along with heartfelt messages and soaring melodies (“I’m Already There”).

With these re-recordings, the band members were mindful of striking a balance between preserving the sonic elements fans were familiar with — and not repeating them.

“It was a high wire act trying to gure out how to change it a little bit and not throw people o too much,” Britt said.

“I’ve seen bands that when they do the big hits that I know, and they change it up too much, I feel disappointed. I think people want to sing along — the vocal melody is what people really are latching onto the majority of time.

“That’s what was in everybody’s minds when we were trying to come up with di erent arrangements, was trying to keep the vocal melody true,” he continued. “Don’t change it so much that people go, ‘That’s not even the same song.’”

As a result, many of Lonestar’s re-recordings have merely cosmetic updates and changes.

“Mr. Mom” is “a little bit more country-sounding,” Britt said, while Sams created some loops for “Smile” to “make it more modern-feeling and have a little more motion.”

“It’s a little biggersounding than what the original record is,” he added. “We kept most of the songs pretty close to the originals, but with just more updated, mod-

ern sounds.”

The changes to “Amazed” re ect the power ballad’s status as an exclamation mark during concerts. “Since it’s usually the biggest part or nale of the show, we’ve made it a little bit more bombastic,” Britt shared. “We didn’t want to change it so much as just to make it more epic.”

Fittingly, “TEN to 1” re ects the ways Lonestar’s hits have evolved over the years during the band’s rousing, high-energy concerts. Such talent has contributed to the band winning many of music’s top honors, including Academy of Country Music Awards for New Vocal Group in 1996, Single and Song of The Year in 2000, along with Humanitarian of The Year in 2002. The band also won Country Music Association’s Vocal Group of the Year and International Artist Achievement award in 2001. All told, Lonestar has sold more than 10.5 million records since its formation.

With the release of “TEN to 1”, the band members are full of gratitude for what they’ve accomplished already and excited about what the future holds. “It’s amazing that we’re still standing and putting on great shows a er all these years,” Sams said. “The fans are still coming out to our shows night a er night, to see us and hear our music. That’s almost 30 years of touring and I can’t tell you how grateful I am — and I’ve never once taken it for granted.” Harris Center for the Arts is located at 10 College Parkway in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit HarrisCenter.net.

Courtesy photo

For 30 years Lonestar has entertained audiences with hit after hit. See the band in Folsom later this month.

EDH club invites more women to join the fun

Angie Zimmerman

El Dorado Hills Newcomers Club

The El Dorado Hills Newcomers Club is a women’s organization dedicated to welcoming residents and bringing them together in a friendly community. The club was founded in 1968 with a mission of gathering residents who have a common interest in socializing and pursuing activities while exploring and supporting our community.

The “new” in newcomers means you are looking for new friendships in El Dorado Hills. And those new friendships o en prove to be a lifeline. You might have just moved to the area for work or recently retired. Perhaps you’re an empty nester, single or married or just looking for a way to connect with the warm and wonderful community.

What it means to belong

Member Laurel re ects on what the club means to her, sharing, “Newcomers serves a vital role for our members because it o ers us a chance to give ourselves the care and attention we have always given to others and to have some fun.

“Newcomers’ membership relights that re,” Laurel continued. “We meet new people, explore new interests, visit new places, learn new things, contribute our talents, gain self-knowledge, be good to others and ourselves, learn that we all deserve care and attention

and realize that life is not over. We each have much more to do, learn, give, and share. What could be better than that?”

What things are happening?

The EDH Newcomers Club has everything from a book club to bunco, walking to wine gatherings, gol ng to gourmet cooking, card games to craing and much more. Events feature unique experiences scattered throughout the year for everyone to enjoy. They may include trips to wineries, theater events, bowling or special themed parties with many surprises — something for everyone. Members are also open to starting new activities re ecting other interests and talents.

The club meets for camaraderie at luncheons on the second Wednesday of each month at local restaurants and venues. EDH Newcomers is “A Club with Heart.” Members look a er one another and also adopt a local charity to support through giving and volunteering to help ease its burden.

How can you join?

Visit edhnewcomers.com. Send an email (edhncemail@gmail. com), be a guest at a luncheon or attend a Welcome Event where you can meet some of our members to see why the Newcomers Club is a special asset to the community and its residents.

Courtesy photo El Dorado Hills Newcomers get together for themed socials, wine tasting, hiking and more. Those interested in joining are invited to learn more at edhnewcomers.com.