Village Life, Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023

Renee Mallot has begun her new job as principal of Lake Forest Elementary. This year she said she wants to focus on teamwork.

LAKE FOREST PRINCIPAL has deep Rescue roots

Julie Samrick Village Life correspondent

Lifelong El Dorado County resident Dr. Renee Mallot started the school year as Lake Forest Elementary’s new principal. She has not only worked exclusively in the Rescue Union School District since she started teaching 20 years ago, Mallot also attended grades K-8 in the district, being a student at Rescue School, Green Valley Elementary and Marina Village Middle School.

“(Former) Lake Forest principal Marilyn Hylton was my third-grade teacher at Green Valley,” Mallot told Village Life from her new o ce. “Talk about full circle.”

The desire to work in education has been strong

for as long as Mallot, 42, can remember. “From the age of 5 I played school,” she recalled. “I had a little house outside and it served as both a school and a library … I always wanted to be a teacher.”

A 1999 Oak Ridge High School graduate, Mallot and her husband Mike met when they were 15. “We always knew we wanted to get married, but my parents said I should earn a college degree rst.”

So she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in liberal studies from California State University, Sacramento, on a Friday. “We got married that Sunday!” Mallot said with a smile. “I’ve always known what I wanted to do!”

She went on to earn a multiple subject teaching

■ See PRINCIPAL, page A4

Byron-Cooper becomes new head of HHSA

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

Interim Health and Human Services Director Olivia

Byron-Cooper has been named the ocial department head for El Dorado County.

Byron-Cooper lled the role a er the county dismissed previous director Evelyn Schae er in December 2022. Before that, Byron-Cooper held various positions for El Dorado County since 2008, including becoming a director of public health, an agency quality improvement manager, program manager and epidemiologist.

County leaders praised Byron-Cooper during her public appointment at their Sept. 12 meeting, lauding her leadership during her time as interim director.

“Your rapport with sta , your ability to build a team and decision-making done with a team have been demonstrated over and over again, particularly with the navigation center and other challenges,” District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl told the new department head. “What you’ve been able to demonstrate is a lot of adaptability, exibility and openness to consider things that are a little bit outside of the box sometimes but always bring the team with you.”

Byron-Cooper beat 14 other applicants who applied for the position and was interviewed by a panel of people that included Director of Library Services Bryce Lovell, Sheri Je Leikauf and Marshall Medical Center Executive Director of Population Health

■ See HHSA, page A4

Photo by Julie Samrick

OLIVIA BYRON-COOPER

What’s happening

Now

The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office is recruiting for the Sheriff’s Team of Active Retirees volunteers. Opportunities include but are not limited to patrol, clerical office work, community outreach, special events and more. They support various functions of law enforcement and the community. The next STAR Academy will be held Oct. 9-19. Requirements to be a STAR are to have no criminal history and a clean driving record. For more information call (530) 621-7545 or email EDSOStars@edso.org.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Cinderella” through Sept. 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “On Golden Pond” through Sept. 24. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Imagination Theater on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville presents “Clue” through Sept. 30. For tickets and more information call (530) 663-6983 or visit itplacerville.org.

Sept. 21

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts a class about training for new Master Gardeners, 4-5:50 p.m. For more information visit ucanr.edu/becomeamastergardener.

The Cameron Park

n See events, page A4

student of the Year

September 21, 2023

Noel Stack

Managing editor

The Rotary Club of El Dorado Hills and Valley View Charter Montessori educators recently celebrated Madison Tucker as the school’s Student of the Year. Calling Madison a respectful student who “exemplifies the core values at our school,” Assistant Principal Amanda Alessandro shared a sweet story of the seventh-grader reaching out to another student who had trouble making friends. Madison’s encouragement made the student feel accepted and welcome, Alessandro said.

“She’s the kind of student you wish your class was full of,” added teacher Kristina Hilliker, who commended Madison for her kindness, good energy and helpful attitude. Madison received a plaque, illustrated dictionary and $50 from the Rotary Club.

Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards ignite possibilities

News release

Soroptimist International of Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills seeks grant applications from women who serve as the primary earners for their families and require financial assistance to continue their education or training.

Women can now apply for the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award. Applications are available at bit.ly/LYDA-apply. The application deadline is Nov. 15.

Soroptimist CP/EDH will provide cash grants to its award recipients up to $2,500. The top winner’s name will then advance to the Soroptimist Sierra Nevada Region level

where she could receive up to an additional $5,000. Recipients may use the Live Your Dream Award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education or additional skills and training. This includes tuition, books, childcare, carfare or other education-related expenses.

Nationally, each year the Live Your Dream Award provides more than $2.7 million in education grants to thousands of women, many of whom have overcome enormous obstacles, including poverty, homelessness, domestic violence and/or substance use disorder. These cash grants continue to instill pride in head-of-household women

in need who showed the courage to change their lives. Since the program’s inception in 1972, the grants have distributed more than $39 million and helped tens of thousands of women achieve their dreams of a better life for themselves and their families.

Founded in 1981, the Cameron Park/ El Dorado Hills club is part of Soroptimist International of the Americas, a global organization that works to improve the lives of women and girls through educational programs leading to social and economic empowerment. For more information visit soroptimist.org or sicpedh.org or call (916) 933-8205.

photo by Noel Stack

Student of the Year Madison Tucker, holding plaque, is all smiles with, from left, Buckeye Union School District

Dr. David Roth, her dad Marques Tucker, sisters Isabelle, 9, and Leilani, 6, mom Michelle Tucker, teacher Kristina Hilliker and Valley View Charter Montessori Assistant

Amanda Alessandro.

CRIB NOTES by Julie Samrick

My 19-year-old son went back to San Luis Obispo this week for his sophomore year of college. He won’t have the safety net of his dorm or three square meals a day anymore, so it has been fun talking with him about cooking and essentials needed for the new place he’ll share with six other guys. I might’ve wondered if he’d wither away in lth, fending for himself a mere three months ago, but I witnessed how working all summer in a kitchen at a local assisted living facility taught him more about adulting than a classroom, or my nagging, ever could.

When he told me in June how early he’d have to leave for work, I wondered to myself if he’d wake up on time. I was certain I wouldn’t be setting my alarm that early every day. That’s one nice thing about having young adult children. The responsibilities fall more and more on them and we parents get to serve as advisors when asked. When he said he’d be working 40 hours a week, I again internally questioned if he’d actually stick it out or if he’d burn out.

Not only did he achieve both getting up early every day and working that many hours, he also got himself to the gym most nights a er work. I was astonished. He’s adulting before my eyes!

The secret to my son’s successful summer is that he put systems in place. If we break down tasks, they become part of our routine. Routines turn into systems and systems are the key to most of our productivity. Starting is always the hard part; just like my husband used to say when he was a runner — the rst mile is the most di cult. A er we establish routines, with time they become systems that make for smooth

MESSAGE FROM EID by Jim

sailing and less stress. This realization came to me about a year ago. Before that I used to think that organization comes naturally to many people and I wasn’t one of them. Organization is something I have always had to work hard at maintaining. I will never be Martha Stewart, but I have found those organized people, like my husband, just have better systems in place. I’ve learned that the areas where I have become more productive are the areas I’ve broken down tasks as part of my routines. I clean out my car when I’m waiting at the gas pump. On the days I change my sheets I remember to dust my bedroom. A er learning our dog might have to have teeth pulled, I made an easy addition to my day and brush his teeth right a er dinner.

Children can achieve more and feel more peaceful with routines in place as well. Just this week my high school daughters and I were talking about how they could break down their morning routine into tasks to get to school on time. Where I used to tell my older, driving daughter that she had to be out the door by 8:10, but couldn’t do it most days, she’s now broken that timeframe down even more. In her case it’s a matter of paying attention to the time and not just the end time. They need to be up by a certain time, dressed by a certain time, etc., leading up to the end time. She made a simple switch and it seems to be working. Soon, with practice, this will become part of her normal routine.

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.”

Abercrombie

EID planning ahead

At the core of our community is a vital network of pipelines, reservoirs and treatment facilities spread out over 220 square miles that are indispensable to our everyday life. Annually, through the El Dorado Irrigation District’s ongoing capital improvement program, we channel funding to rejuvenate this vast infrastructure, ensuring we continue to have access to clean drinking water and e cient wastewater disposal.

As the years pass the wear and tear on this infrastructure increases. At the same time, mounting expenses — especially from rising in ation — challenge our ability to fund essential replacements and upgrades, critical to maintaining the reliability and safety of our systems.

To address the rising costs, we initiated a Cost of Service Analysis earlier this year. With the expertise of external consultants, this study aimed to identify the necessary annual revenue needed to ensure the delivery of safe and reliable services both now and in the future. Our e orts align with the mandates of Article XIII D of the California Constitution, known as Proposition 218. This statute establishes the guidelines for adjusting water, wastewater and recycled water rates. Simply put, we are mandated to set rates that re ect the actual costs of these vital services. Nothing more, nothing less.

Since the kicko of the COSA process, our board and sta have been engaged in discussions about policy objectives, revenue requirements and nancial strategies. These deliberations, coupled with insights from our consultant, culminated in the dra nancial plans presented on Aug. 14. Let’s look back for some context. We knew by the end of 2022 that we would need to increase revenue to match the costs of providing service. In December 2022 the board endorsed an operational budget that indicated an 8% rise in drinking and recycled water rates was needed to ensure we had adequate revenue for yearly operations, maintenance and debt settlement.

In addition to our ongoing capital replacement program, recent condition assessments of our water treatment facilities revealed the need to begin investing in phased upgrades to these assets as well. As such, two of our ve treatment facilities have been prioritized for upgrades, one in El Dorado Hills and the other in Pollock Pines.

In the coming ve years we are anticipating approximately $89 million in investments to these treatment plants to replace aging components and improve treatment processes. Plans are under way to phase in improvements

over the next ve to 10 years.

Our dra plans coming out of the COSA process identify the need for a 12% annual revenue boost for drinking and recycled water, with a 3% rise for wastewater. These adjustments are fundamental for covering expenses, funding capital replacement projects, establishing nancial cushions, ensuring bond security and meeting our debt commitments — all of this is vital for the long-term health of our water and wastewater systems. Over the next half-decade we anticipate investing more than $35 million in water service and line replacements. This will address deteriorating infrastructure and amplify resilience. The devastation of the 2021 Caldor Fire underscores the urgency of continuing to rehabilitate our 22-mile canal and ume system. The work of converting wooden umes to durable concrete structures is a costly and important e ort that we engage in every year.

Similarly, on the wastewater side, we have earmarked $10 million for li station enhancements and $22 million for pipeline overhauls. These steps are critical for the pro cient movement, processing, and disposal of wastewater at our facilities.

Looking ahead, we understand the impacts of the decisions before us.

While the need for additional revenue is urgent, we are committed to ensuring your hard-earned funds are invested wisely in the vast system of infrastructure we all rely on. Every additional dollar raised will be put into service to increase the resilience and health of our services.

Beyond the already noted $35 million for water services, the insights from our recent COSA sessions have also led us to consider simplifying our rate structure. The proposed modi cations aim to make our rates more comprehensible and user-friendly. As we push beyond the revenue needs, now our consultant and EID sta are looking at what rate adjustments are necessary to meet those revenue requirements. Please have a look at the COSA process at eid.org/COSA to get more details on this important e ort.

EID sta and your elected representatives on the EID Board of Directors take the task of maintaining our lean, right-sized community agency very seriously. Now we need to make some adjustments to account for the rising costs we have all experienced. We all shoulder the responsibility of ensuring every penny is invested into your community’s vital services with integrity, transparency and wisdom.

Jim Abercrombie is general manager of the El Dorado Irrigation District.

Martin Entwistle, according to Human Resources Director Joseph Carresco.

Her appointment comes a er two HHSA directors le in 2022 — Schae er and Don Semon, who stepped down a er a three-year stint in the role.

“You really stepped up for us in a time that felt like a crisis. We saw you hit the ground running and you did not just hold us together as an interim, you took charge, took the lead and brought people together on so many e orts that we have going on right now,” said District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin.

Before coming to work for the county in 2008, Byron-Cooper worked in the Amazon Basin of Peru and the InterTribal Council in Lac Du Flabeau, Wisc., on tribal health issues. She received her bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and her mas-

Continued from A1

ter’s degree in public health from the University of Michigan.

“You are an aspirational and inspirational leader, and those are rare qualities,” said Board Chair Wendy Thomas to Byron-Cooper. “You have come into HHSA in a time when the agency desperately needed your skills and I have continued to be in awe about the great skill and diplomacy, candor, strength and heart with which you bring to the position. I think we all have seen remarkable change in the culture of the agency which will reap bene ts for the community and for the people you serve.”

The appointment becomee e ective Sept. 23. Her salary has been set at approximately $236,000, according to a press release.

NEW TRUSTEE ADVOCATES FOR KIDS

Expertise That Is Never Equaled!

Courtesy photo

During the El Dorado County Board of Education meeting held Sept. 5, Dr. Charles Ware, right, took the Oath of Office and officially assumed the position of Area 1 trustee. Residing with his family in El Dorado Hills, Ware has a firm presence in the community. Area 1 includes El Dorado Hills, Latrobe and Cameron Park. This designation fills the vacancy left by former trustee Georgianne Knight. The term will run through Dec. 31, 2024.

credential from Sac State and her rst job was right back at Green Valley and then Rescue School. A er her fourth child was born, Mallot went back to school to earn a doctorate, another childhood ambition. “Ever since I was little, I’d say, ‘I’m going to be a doctor someday’ without even knowing what a doctor was,” Mallot explained.

She completed an online program at Concordia University in Portland, rst earning a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction with a focus in math. Then, with her family’s full support, Mallot took four more years to earn a doctorate in teacher leadership with a focus in gi ed education.

“Gi ed students have always had a piece of my heart,” she shared. “Struggling learners already have supports in place — it’s a law. But gi ed education is so o en overlooked. You lose so many kids because they’re bored. So, with these tools, it’s ‘let’s mix it up’ for those students instead.”

Mallot earned her Ph.D. in 2019, just before online schooling became mainstream, something she was equipped for from her experience at Concordia. She most recently earned an administrative credential and a master’s in educational leadership from Concordia University in Irvine.

“When I made the jump to administration, I knew I wanted to stay in Rescue because Rescue is such a good school district,” she added. “I gured when the time is right it would happen.”

Events

Community Services District hosts a Park Pop-Up event, 4:30-6 p.m. at Christa McAuliffe Park. Staff will welcome participants of all ages and abilities to join for games, crafts and socializing.

Sept. 23

UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts Greenhouse Gardening, 9 a.m. to noon at the El Dorado Hills CSD Teenz Center. Learn what kind of structures and materials work best for growing from seed and beyond, what accessories are a must for success and a hands-on demonstration of how to sow seeds.

Join Cantaré Chorale of the Sierra Foothills celebrating the beauty of nature with its upcoming fall concert series, Invisible Stars. Cantaré Chorale will perform a delightfully diverse set of works. Performances are scheduled in El Dorado Hills (Sept. 23), Placerville (Sept. 30) and Rescue (Oct. 7). Tickets for the concerts are available online at cantarechorale.com, through Cantaré members or at the door.

Experience action and adventure at the 31st Folsom Renaissance Faire & International Jousting Tournament, Sept. 23-24 at Folsom City Lions Park. For tickets and more information visit bit.ly/42HgYaC.

Sept. 24

The Shingle Springs Community Center hosts an Artisan Faire, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendors wanted. For more information call (530) 651-0747 or visit shinglespringscommunitycenter.org.

Sept. 25

Vitalant will host an El Dorado Hills community blood drive, 12:30-4:30 p.m. at District Church, 7000 Rossmore Lane. make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFR481or call (877) 2584825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins are welcome and will be accommodated if space allows.

Sept. 27

The Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at Moonraker Brewing in Cameron Park. This month’s speaker is Colleen Hearn with Concerned Citizens of Cameron Park. For more information and to register visit sscpchamber.org.

During the 2022-23 school year, Mallot worked at the district o ce as the coordinator of Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports and Special Programs, and she applied in May when the principal position at Lake Forest opened.

“We have large shoes to ll in replacing Renee as our coordinator of MultiTiered Systems of Supports and Special Programs, but we are excited to send her and her many talents to support and serve the Lake Forest team and community,” Rescue Union Superintendent Jim Shoemake told Village Life. “She is a consummate professional who loves kids and learning. We look forward to what 2023-2024 has in store with Dr. Mallot at the helm.”

Mallot and her husband are parents to eight kids who range in age from 1 to 20 years old, all past, current and future Rescue Union students. In her downtime, Mallot enjoys spending time in the outdoors with her family and large extended family. She can also o en be found driving to wrestling practice or attending matches. “We are a big wrestling family,” she said.

She told Village Life she aims to make “teamwork” this school year’s theme. “From parents, teachers, support sta , students — we’re all an essential part of the team. We’re all in this together,” Mallot explained. “I’m excited. Lake Forest is a good community school.”

Lake Forest Elementary in El Dorado Hills serves 425 students in transitional kindergarten through h grade.

Continued from A2

Sept. 29

Sutter Street Theatre in Folsom presents “Evil Dead: The Musical” Sept. 29 through Nov. 5. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Sept. 30

Kids with special needs up to age 22 are invited to participate in the TRY-athlon, an adaptive swim, bike, run event, 8 a.m. to noon at EDH Community Park and the pool. For more information visit edhcsd.org.

The 2023 Props, Cops & Rodders takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cameron Airpark in Cameron Park. For more information call (530) 748-2481 or visit propscopsandrodders.com.

Musician Ed Wilson and percussionist Dante Montes will perform at Back Bistro in Folsom, 6-9 p.m.

Oct. 1

The 19th annual Niello Concours at Serrano takes place on the green at the Serrano Visitors Center in El Dorado Hills. This year the concours celebrates 75 years of Porsche and 60 years of Lamborghini. For tickets visit theconcours.net.

Oct. 4

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce hosts a Business Builder Buffet with chamber CEO Debbie Manning presenting Where is the Chamber Today? The luncheon begins at 11:30 a.m. at Hills Church in El Dorado Hills. RSVP by calling (916) 9331335 or visiting eldoradohillschamber.org.

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts a Park Party Bark-B-Que, 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Community Park dog park. Enjoy free food, music and family/ K9 oriented activities and games. Dogs are encouraged to join (on leashes).

Oct. 5

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce hosts a 5 p.m. ribbon cutting at Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil’s new office at 4364 Town Center Blvd., Suite 313, El Dorado Hills. Refreshments will be provided.

Women’s Fund El Dorado hosts an evening of inspirational stories, 5-8 p.m. at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Tickets are available online at womensfundeldorado.org/events.

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

also offers great customer

friendly team and high-quality craftsmanship. The new location

customers

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

Mary Lagomarsino CalDRE #01457713 (916) 337-6000 marylagomarsino@ gmail.com

4010 Tea Rose Court, El Dorado Hills

1,580 square feet

3 bedrooms, 2 baths

0.16-acre property

Listed at $639,000 MLS #223078742

Elegant home a great nd in EDH

This charming, single-story El Dorado Hills home sits on a secluded court and boasts an owned solar-power system.

The well-maintained house features a lovely great room with gleaming porcelain tiled oors, plantation shutters, a wood-burning replace surrounded by mosaic glass tile and possible formal dining space with a beautiful chandelier overhead.

Resident chefs will love preparing culinary treats in the all-electric kitchen with a built-in microwave, double sink, dishwasher, stainless steel refrigerator, center island with pendant lighting and generous cabinetry and countertop space. Enjoy meals in the kitchen’s dining area lit by a charming chandelier. A large glass door leads to the spacious back deck, making indoor/ outdoor entertaining seamless.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a ex room ideal for an extra living space, an o ce or tv room.

The home has three bedrooms. The primary suite boasts a walk-in closet, sloped ceiling and a lighted ceiling fan. The suite’s bathroom has dual sinks, granite countertops and a spacious accessible shower. The two additional bedrooms with ceiling fans share a full bathroom with granite counters

and a tub/shower combo. Outside the laundry room is an additional room with separate air conditioning that could be an o ce or hobby room. The home also has an attached, two-car garage. Enjoy an evening cocktail on the spacious Trex deck overlooking the private yard featuring a mini orchard of apple, orange, peach, lemon and pear trees. The side yard is gated and shaded, making it a great place for the family pet to enjoy quality time outdoors without worry. The front yard has beautiful owers and low-maintenance landscaping plus a paved walkway leading up to the covered front porch.

The property is a short distance from highly rated schools, great shopping and restaurants, Folsom Lake activities and nature trails. Nearby Highway 50 provides easy access to local wineries, Lake Tahoe and downtown Sacramento — a perfect home in a perfect location.

Interested in a private tour of this beautiful Tea Rose Court property in El Dorado Hills? Contact Realtors Pat Seide at (916) 712-1617, patricia.seide@cbnorcal.com or Mary Lagomarsino at (916) 337-6000, marylagomarsino@ gmail.com.

Folsom Lake Symphony tuning up for 20th season

News release

Maestro Peter Jaffe has “raised the bar” of musicianship for the Folsom Lake Symphony and that, combined with efforts to secure fabulous guest artists, results in a stellar 2023-24 season that will excite audiences and is worthy of the symphony’s 20-year milestone celebration.

Season subscriptions and single concert tickets are on sale. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony. com/2023-24-season.

The season

Emerald

Extravaganza, Oct. 14:

The first concert of the season will feature pieces by Dave Brubeck/Paul Desmond,Tchaikovsky and Respighi. Violinist Chee-Yun’s flawlessly compelling technique, tone and artistry has enraptured audiences on five continents and now she joins the symphony as a gust artist. Charming, charismatic and deeply passionate about her art, Chee-Yun continues to carve a unique place for herself in the everevolving world of classical music.

The evening will begin with a farm to table al fresco buffet dinner artfully prepared by Table Nectar Catering. We will be pouring award-winning wines from Bellador Winery in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. Dinner and concert tickets are sold separately.

Happy Holidays, Dec. 9 & 10: Celebrate the holiday season with performances showcasing the talents of Roberto Perlas Gomez (baritone) and the Northern California Children’s Chorus. A brilliant bari-

tone and adorable young talents join the festivities for a program packed with goodies — “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “The Night

Before Christmas,”

“Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” “O Holy Night,” “The Nutcracker” excerpts and many more.

That Amore!, Feb. 10, 2024: Hot off the trail from international touring and PBS specials, charismatic guest artist Pasquale Esposito (tenor) returns. Lovers will bask in a stellar evening that includes “That’s Amore,” “Besame mucho,” Be My Love” and many other romantic Italian and Latin favorites.

Titan, April 20, 2024: Now in his third decade of touring worldwide,

American pianist Jon Nakamatsu continues to draw critic and public acclaim for his intensity, elegance and electrifying solo, concerto and chamber music performances. During this concert he will perform Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” and Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, “Titan,” among other pieces.

“Carmina Burana,”

June 8 & 9, 2024: Enjoy the vocal talents of Carrie Hennessey (soprano), Daniel Ebbers (tenor), Ralph Cato (baritone), the Music in the Mountains Chorus, Sacramento Master Singers and Northern California Children’s Chorus. With huge performing forces, scenes

and indoor air quality needs 5 days a week. Our technicians are avoiding typical contact with our clients, like shaking hands and staying 6 or more feet away.

Courtesy photo

Violinist Chee-Yun joins the Folsom Lake Symphony for its Emerald Extravaganza concert this October.

n See symphony, page B5

Quilters stitch their best for Images of Hope

Village Life staff

September is Quilt Month for Images of Hope and that means it’s time for the great online Quilt Auction running through at noon Sept. 29.

There are 16 unique quilts and four table runners up for auction. They are currently on display at businesses on Main Street in Placerville. To see these incredible pieces of art take a stroll along Main Street and stop by Ambiance, Placerville News Co., Placerville Hardware, Lofty Lou’s, Elements Hair Salon, Gold Country Artists Gallery, Placerville Art Gallery, Kelsey’s Needle Krafts, High Sierra Quilters, Robinson’s Pharmacy, Wine Smith, The Bookery, Violets Are Blue, Pop Art and Olde Town Grill. Some quilts are displayed in windows and others inside the businesses.

All the quilts have been donated to Images of Hope El Dorado by local quilters. The auction helps raise funds for the arts and movement therapy classes offered for free to those affected by cancer and other traumas on the Western Slope of El Dorado County.

“Thank you to the quilters for donating these beautiful quilts, the businesses for displaying the quilts and thank you to the community for supporting the cancer and trauma patients,” said Wendy Goossen, founder of Images of Hope.

To place a bid go to ImagesofHopeElDorado.org and get the link to the quilt auction website.

“We are so fortunate to live in such a creative and generous community,” Goossen added. “The quilters are amazing and so talented. Each quilt is a work of art and will bring joy to everyone who buys one. Those buying a quilt are wonderful and they contribute to the health of El Dorado County.”

Images of Hope El Dorado will also be at the Bell Tower on Main Street having fun with some great photo opportunities during Girl’s Night Out’s Flower Power-themed event, 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23.

For more information go to ImagesofHopeElDorado.org.

Local BLM office gets new manager

News release

Keep babies healthy with diaper donation

News release

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The Bureau of Land Management has selected Jeff Horn to serve as the new Mother Lode Field Manager in El Dorado Hills. His career in public service and natural resources has spanned more than 30 years and he now embraces the challenge of overseeing management of more than 230,000 acres of public land spanning across 10 counties in central California.

“The Mother Lode Field Office manages some of the most spectacular public lands in the country and I am really excited to take on this new role,” said Horn. “It is a great honor to be able to work with the communities of central California, our partners and the visitors to ensure these special places are available for the use and enjoyment of current and future generations.”

A native of California, Horn began his career in the BLM as a park ranger and river patrol ranger in the Mother Lode Field Office. He later accepted a position as an outdoor recreation planner where he has spent his career managing and expanding recreational opportunities throughout the Sierra Foothills region. Before joining the agency, Horn worked as a whitewater river guide throughout the western United States and other countries and in the ski industry during the winter months.

As field manager, Horn will oversee management of public lands, such as the Cosumnes River Preserve, Pine Hill Preserve, Red Hills Area of Critical environmental Concern, the North Fork American and Merced Wild & Scenic Rivers, as well as highly visited recreation areas along the South Fork American River, South Yuba River and the Mokelumne River.

“We are fortunate to have Jeff’s experience, wisdom and collaborative leadership style as part of the BLM California,” says BLM Central California District Manager Chris Heppe. “His extensive knowledge of river management, natural resources and community partnerships in central California will benefit BLM’s multiple-use mission in the Mother Lode Field Office.”

Horn grew up in Palos Verdes; however, he has been a resident of the Sacramento region for more than 30 years and studied forestry at Sierra College. When he is not busy managing public lands, Horn can be found fly fishing, restoring old Volkswagen buses, breeding exotic reptiles and gardening with his wife Pam.

Catalyst Community and the El Dorado County Community Hubs kicks off its annual Diaper Drive through Sept. 24 in recognition of National Diaper Need Awareness Week. Many El Dorado County families struggle to afford basic diapering needs for their children on top of trying to recover from the hardships COVID and natural disasters put on families. Inflation has also made it even harder for families to thrive and stay afloat. The average price for a package of disposable diapers in 2019 was $16.54 according to NIQ data on U.S. Sales of disposable diapers. Now the average price has jumped to $21.90.

“Diaper need,” or an insufficient supply of diapers to keep children clean and dry effects one in three parents in the U.S. A baby needs 10-12 diapers a day, costing $150 to $250 a month. This is an expense addition that some families struggle to afford, causing emotional stress and additional hardships for many families. To help fill this need, Catalyst Community created a diaper bank in 2014 to support these families

n See Diapers page B4

Village Life photo by Noel Stack

“Fair Isle” donated by High Sierra Quilters hangs in Gold Country Artists Gallery in downtown Placerville. Bidding for this quilt and many others has begun.

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Courtesy photo

Dana Schmalz, resource and referral specialist for Catalyst Community, left, and Jaclyn raya, Community Hubs navigator, are looking for more diapers to share with families in the community.

Local Statement Makers club toasts its success

Statement Makers of Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills has many reasons to celebrate.

SONDRA NUNEZ

Club President Sondra Nunez has been elected to the Toastmasters International Board of Directors for District 1. She will serve a two-year term as a “working ambassador” representing 14 Toastmasters regions and developing policies and procedures that guide Toastmasters International in ful lling its mission. During the regular workday Nunez is the second-generation owner and chief nancial o cer of Mountain Valley Petroleum.

Other achievements include serving on the executive committee and contributing to the Justice and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee for the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs. Her motto is to “live a meaningful, purposeful life that requires self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and self-discipline. These skills and more are available to everyone through Toastmasters communication and leadership training.”

In addition, Statement Makers has earned the President’s Distinguished Club Award, Toastmasters Internationals’ highest level of club recognition possible. The local

club met nine of 10 club achievements and membership targets, which is a tough feat in itself.

Those interested in being part of a supportive environment focused on personal and professional growth through public speaking and leadership are welcome to join any meeting as a guest. Statement Makers of Cameron Park/El Dorado Hills meets the rst, second and third Wednesdays of each month either during the lunch hour or one evening meeting with options to join either virtually or in-person. For more details contact Stacey Saito at Stacey.Saito@yahoo. com.

California Capital Airshow soars to new heights

News release

MATHER — The 17th annual California Capital Airshow, presented by Sacramento County in partnership with the city of Rancho Cordova, returns Sept. 23 & 24 at Mather Airport in Sacramento. The two-day event will feature performances from some of the world’s most thrilling aircra , featuring the renowned United States Air Force Thunderbirds jet demonstration team, and attendees will have the opportunity to explore 171 acres of aircra displays and exhibits on the ground.

Gates to this massive aviation festival are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day with ying performances from noon to 4 p.m. Exhilarating performances will include the US Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team, the return of the US Air Force C-17 Globemaster Demonstration, U.S.

Navy F-18 Super Hornet and an aweinspiring lineup of world-class civilian aerobatic performers, including a selection of vintage World War II aircra . “The airshow will o er an incredible lineup of aircra and performers from all over the world,” said Darcy Brewer, executive director of California Capital Airshow. “Our team works all year long to put on an event that the com-

munity will love and we’ve added even more exhibits and experiences for attendees to enjoy this year.”

Diapers

• Healthy and happy babies — Babies with clean diapers are less likely to su er painful rashes and illness.

• Promotes working parents — Working parents are required to supply clean diapers to attend most childcare programs. Diapers help with a stable workforce. Donations of diapers can be dropped o at any Starbucks store in El Dorado County, Face in A Book in El Dorado Hills, El Dorado County Library loca-

In partnership with the Rancho Cordova Barrel District, the airshow is debuting “The Hangar” Chalet, a ticketed area within the airshow where attendees will receive a commemorative tasting glass and seven 4-ounce pours from four local breweries, one hard kombucha, one meadery and one distillery. The area will have seating, food trucks and the option to purchase additional Barrel District partner beverages throughout the event.

Also new this year is a free community event to kick-o the airshow weekend, 6-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, at Village Green Park in Rancho Cordova. Attendees can meet airshow performers, including the USAF Thunderbirds, and enjoy live music, food trucks, activities provided by local organizations and chances to win free airshow tickets and swag.

Tickets for the airshow are on sale now. The public can access discounted tickets and sign-up to receive festival updates as an Airshow Insider at californiacapitalairshow.com. Advanced tickets must be purchased; no tickets will be available onsite airshow weekend.

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tions (El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park, Placerville and South Lake Tahoe) or at Catalyst Community. Monetary donations can be made on the Catalyst Community website at catalystfamily. kindful.com or can be sent to: Catalyst Community, 3161 Cameron Park Drive, Suite 101, Cameron Park, CA 95682

Contact Catalyst Community for more information or assistance at (530) 676-0707.

File photo by Larry Weitzman

Canadian Snowbirds show off with a close knit, aerial ballet in their CT-114 Tudor side-by-side trainers at a previous California Capital Airshow at Mather Airport. This year’s event runs Sept. 23 & 24.

Symphony

from spring, a tavern, a court of love, and the iconic O fortuna chorus that bookends the work, this blockbuster has become wildly popular ever since its premiere. With a combined chorus of 150 members, this is an experience not to be missed.

Young Artist Competition

Applications for the Folsom Lake Symphony’s inaugural Young Artist Competition are now being accepted. The purpose of the competition is to recognize and showcase the talents of young classical musicians.

Yellow Button Bakery Yellow Button Bakery

The competition, held at the Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College, will be judged by a panel of professionals chaired by the symphony’s music director and conductor Peter Ja e. Cash awards are given to division winners ($500 each) and the grand prize winner ($1,000). All winners will perform at the Young Artists Recital. The grand prize winner will also perform with the symphony at the Spring Family Concert. The application period is open until Sept. 27. For more information visit folsomlakesymphony.com/yac.