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Kevin Loewen leaves EDHCSD Noel Stack Managing editor

Village Life photos by Eric Jaramishian

Pryzm Ennis, 18, asnd El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office STAR volunteer Sheila Wisdom enjoy a shopping spree at Target in El Dorado Hills earlier this month. Some 200 at-risk youth were invited for the Snowball Heroes and Helpers Shopping event organized by the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office.

Snowball shopping elves take to store shelves

Board decides to pay with cash

P

■ See SHOPPING, page A4

■ See LOEWEN, page A4

GOLF COURSE PURCHASE

Eric Jaramishian Staff writer

ryzm Ennis and El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office STAR volunteer Sheila Wisdom shared an inside joke while waiting at the checkout line at Target in El Dorado Hills.

Inside their shopping cart were clothing and other essentials, but also art canvases, all purchased with $200 granted to Pryzm. Some 200 youth went on a shopping spree Dec. 9 at Target in El Dorado Hills, courtesy of the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office, which organizes the annual Snowball Heroes and

El Dorado Hills Community Services District General Manager Kevin Loewen has resigned.

“He is no longer an employee of the CSD as of today,” EDHCSD Director Stephen Ferry confirmed with Village Life Dec. 14.

KEVIN LOEWEN Not a remark was made of the empty seat at that night’s EDHCSD Board of Directors meeting during time set aside for directors’ comments. Board members opted instead to wish everyone happy holidays and thank staff for all that has been accomplished in 2023.

Only when a few members of the public addressed Loewen’s absence did board Chair Noelle Mattock acknowledge the vacant chair, telling those in the

Noel Stack Managing editor The El Dorado Hills Community Services District has opted to use cash funds to purchase 55 acres of the old Executive Golf Course from Serrano Associates.

The unanimous decision came after discussion at Thursday night’s board meeting, at which CSD directors were presented with several financing options for the $10 million purchase.

CSD Director of Administration & Finance Teri Gotro recorded a presentation for the directors and audience, referencing a 10-page staff report that notes, “This option to pay $10 million in cash would require the district to deplete the Capital Deficiency Reserve Fund and reduce the current capital project list by $1.55 million.”

Gotro recommended pulling the $1.55 million from the Bass Lake Regional Park project. “And the reason Mantra Jenkins, 10, and El Dorado County Recorder-Clerk Janelle Horne check out a cozy sweater during their shopping trip.

■ See CASH, page A3

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December 21, 2023

Seniors celebrate the season

Village Life photos by Noel Stack

Jim Moore, right, tops his ice cream sundae at the Senior Christmas Luncheon Dec. 8 while EDH Rotarians Joe Weber, left front, and Bill Tobin help Dorothy Rhoades make her dessert. Below, Rolling Hills Middle School student Holly Demuri serves sweet treats to seniors during the luncheon hosted by the El Dorado Hills Community Services District in the CSD gym.

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Continued from A1

we’re doing that is because we talked to the Planning Department. Those funds will not be spent in this fiscal year,” she explained.

The cash payment will be made on or before Jan. 11, Gotro noted, the deadline agreed to in the purchase agreement between the CSD and Serrano. After that purchase closes escrow, the district has 18 months to secure financing for the remaining golf course property on the south side of Serrano Parkway closest to Highway 50, which covers 41.5 acres and comes with a $9.96 million price tag ($240,000 per acre).

And while both directors and members of the public had concerns about pulling money from other projects, most agreed it was better than paying interest on a loan. Financing half the purchase, $5 million, over a 15-year period comes with about $2.3 million in interest, Gotro read from the report.

“I really, as a taxpayer, don’t look at the options of where we’re going to pay interest and financing charges or potentially other bonds when we’ve already got so many on our property taxes,” said EDH resident and El Dorado County GOP Committee member Kelley Nalewaja. “I’m a little concerned about that.”

Nalewaja said she supported purchasing the entire property to prevent Parker Development’s plan to build

homes on the property.

Resident and District 1 supervisor candidate Linda Campbell asked how the board plans to replenish the reserve after the purchase.

“Does that come from the property taxes ... or does that come from somewhere else?” Campbell asked.

EDHCSD board President Noelle Mattock noted the district is in the process of preparing next year’s budget.

“We are learning what our tax dollars are going to be coming in from the county for property taxes,” she said.

“Those tax dollars have been coming in higher than anticipated, so that could help make up the gap.”

Mattock suggested that if it looks like the district falls short on cash for any of its upcoming projects during the budget planning period, the board could “do any financing at that time.”

Director Stephen Ferry noted El Dorado County secured a U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Department loan ($57 million) to fund its public safety facility. He made the motion to support the cash-only option and asked staff to look into the USDA program to see of the CSD’s purchase could qualify.

Directors Mattock, Ben Paulsen, Heidi Hannaman and Mike Martinelli joined Ferry in passing the motion.

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A4

December 21, 2023

Shopping

Continued from A1

Helpers Shopping event.

As a multimedia artist, Pryzm, 18, said she plans use the art supplies to make art for a craft fair in Chico, where she is also a student at Inspire School of Arts and Sciences.

“I’m having a blast,” Pryzm said. “It’s a nice little getaway from the stress of the rest of life.”

The DA’s Office raises approximately $45,000 each year to provide at-risk youth with an opportunity to go shopping with local and state law enforcement and first responders. Since its inception 15 years ago, the holiday charity program has raised more than $500,000 to benefit around 2,000 chil-

dren.

District Attorney Vern Pierson kickstarted the program with a two-fold intent.

“Unfortunately, many at-risk children’s exposure to first responders comes about during stressful, negative life events,” Pierson states in a press release. “We started the Snowball event to provide these children with an opportunity to interact with law enforcement and fire personnel in a positive, safe environment. This interaction serves to help change the course of a child’s life and helps provide these children with some needed items for their home, a meaningful moment with

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When Village Lifecame across deputy district attorney Alexander Ochoa and 8-year-old Titus Harrod, a student at Green Valley Elementary School, Titus was laying on a pillow on a Target shelf, clearly enjoying himself. “(Alexander) is really nice,” Titus admitted. “(We) are shopping for blankets, then stuffed animals and toys, which is awesome.”

Ochoa, who started working for the DA’s Office in November, was helping Titus check off his list, starting with pants, socks and sweaters.

“When the email came around to volunteer, I signed up right off,” Ochoa said.

In addition to shopping, participants got to pet K-9 officers, including Karma, who has been showing up to Snowball for seven years with her handler Lt. Brian Patrick with the California Department Fish and Wildlife. Both were wearing oversized Christmas light necklaces.

“Karma absolutely enjoys the attention, and we watch the kids brighten up,” Patrick said. “Some of them are very apprehensive at first because you’ve got the uniforms on and then the police

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audience and listening online that it was a “personnel and confidential” matter. The board is still moving forward with the independent investigation into Loewen’s conduct while employed with the district, she added.

In closed session the board was expected to discuss appointing Loewen’s replacement but no action was reported out other than direction had been given to the EDHCSD attorney (on some matter discussed).

No other specifics, including if Loewen received an exit compensation package, were shared.

At the Nov. 9 board meeting EDHCSD Board President Noelle Mattock confirmed the district had hired “an outside law firm separate from the one which the district legal counsel is a member of to conduct an independent investigation into the general manager’s conduct.”

This announcement came four months after El Dorado Hills residents raised concerns about possible ethics and contract violations related to Loewen’s professional activities outside the district and his relationship with a CSD consultant.

It was EDH resident Robert Williams’ inquiry into a consulting business owned by Loewen that launched the inquiry. Loewen filed

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dog. That’s why we dress them up to to make it more approachable.”

Sheriff Jeff Leikauf, who could be seen interacting with the young shoppers, said the best part is when the children have enough money left over after getting their needed items to get what they really want.

“They can get a toy, a video game, a DVD,” Leikauf said. “What really breaks your heart is when they have a little bit of money left over and they say ‘Hey, can we go over to the food section, because I would like snacks and food to take home to my family.’

I think that’s when it puts things into perspective for me on how important this program is for our kids.”

Participants were treated to breakfast after they were done shopping.

Supporters of the event include the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians, the El Dorado County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, the El Dorado County Criminal Attorneys’ Association, El Dorado County Auditor-Controller Joe Harn, Waste Connections, Juvenile Service Council and the Jensen family, according to the DA’s press release.

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reports with the El Dorado County Elections Department in 2021 and 2022 indicating his personal business, Placerville-based Synergy Behavioral Systems, generates between $10,000 and $100,000 of income annually.

Williams asked the board July 13 to confirm outside consulting was allowed

by Loewen’s employment contract and approved by the board.

LLAD Advisory Committee member Steve Gutierrez added another layer to the probe following his resignation, during which he said his search into Loewen’s professional activities outside the CSD indicated the general manager at one time worked for DTA while it had a contract with the community services district. It was announced at the October EDHCSD board meeting that DTA’s contract would not be extended.

Loewen served as the district’s general manager since January 2017 and had been employed with the district since February 2014, according to his LinkedIn profile. He served as the EDHCSD director of Parks and Planning prior to taking on the GM role.

Village Life reached out to the nowformer general manager for comment but had not received a response as of press time.

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elcome to this dream home nestled on the 6th fairway of the prestigious, guard-gated Serrano Golf and Country Club in El Dorado Hills.

A perfect blend of elegance and functionality, this home features the highest quality materials and craftsmanship evident in every corner and offers a lifestyle of unparalleled luxury.

The grand entrance showcases the home’s extensive woodwork that graces the interior, adding warmth and sophistication. Design elements of note include gleaming mosaic-styled hardwood floors, wood paneling and elegant chandeliers. High ceilings throughout the home create an open and airy ambiance, inviting abundant natural light to illuminate the living spaces.

Enjoy entertaining in the charming dining room with French doors that open onto the front courtyard, which has a magnificent fountain as its centerpiece.

In the great room an impressive 17-foot-tall, doublesided stone fireplace serves as the focal point, exuding both grandeur and coziness. The family room boasts a cathedral, wooden-beamed ceiling, large windows showcasing golf course views and built-in cabinetry.

In the adjacent gourmet kitchen, resident chefs will love the beveled central island with warming drawers and prep sink, a Thermador stovetop with carved wood hood accent, dual Thermador wall ovens, generous cabinetry and built-in Sub-Zero refrigerator. Nearby is a family dining space with sliding doors that open onto the side patio and gorgeous cabinetry, including a built-in desk.

The home has three bedrooms. Retire to the opulent primary suite with striking hardwood accents, recessed ceiling, panoramic golf course views and outdoor access to the central back patio.

Feel like royalty entering the primary bathroom with dual closets, granite counters with a make-up area, a sunken jacuzzi tub with lead glass windows and a walk-in shower.

The dedicated office space off the grand entry provides an ideal environment for remote work or a quiet retreat. A full bathroom connects the office with a main floor bedroom.

Upstairs is a bedroom or living area with a vaulted ceiling and an attached full bathroom with a skylight.

The home also has a laundry room with a sink, ample cabinetry and access to the secondary, attached one-car garage. There is also an attached, two car garage. The garages have storage cabinets and a workshop area plus plenty of parking space.

Step outside to the meticulously landscaped grounds, where the expansive patio provides a perfect setting for al fresco dining or relaxing in the sunshine with the serenity of the golf course as a backdrop. Whether you’re an avid golfer or simply appreciate the finer things in life, this residence promises an extraordinary living experience where every detail reflects a commitment to excellence and a passion for refined living.

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

B2

DECEMBER 21, 2023

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OLSOM — Harris Center for the Arts presents a magical performance to kick off 2024: Masters of Illusion on Sunday, Jan. 7.

Only the best, most unique, amusing, astounding and amazing performers have been chosen to perform. Master of Illusion is a huge stage phenomenon born from the multi-award-winning television series “Masters of Illusion,” which completed its eighth season on the CW in 2021-22.

Masters of Illusion has performed live in front of tens of thousands of people around the U.S. for the past seven years and been seen by more than 100 million viewers on the CW network, as well as in 126 countries around the world. Masters of Illusion recently performed in the heart of the Las Vegas strip for a limited engagement at Bally’s in a brand-new show for the whole family.

Starring the world’s greatest award-winning magicians, this 21st century magic show is unlike anything audiences have seen before — filled with modern illusions and arts of deception, performed live on stage.

Audiences will be held at the edge of their seats by the jaw-dropping grand illusions and laugh out loud at the hysterical comedy magic as performers from around the world combine fantasy, fervor and flair with magic created in front of their very eyes.

Watch closely as you experience things that just can’t ■ See ILLUSION, page B4

Compassion, Care, Dignity, and Respect

WHAT’S HAPPENING Now Evening carriage rides are offered 5-8 p.m Fridays and 4-8 p.m. Saturdays at El Dorado Hills Town Center Theater Plaza through Dec. 23. These charm-

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Fairgrounds in Placerville presents “Matilda” through Dec. 23. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.

Sutter Street Theatre presents “Holiday in the Hills” through Dec. 23. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Join El Dorado Hills Town Center’s Elf on the Boulevard Scavenger Hunt.

Pick up a passport at any participating Town Center business or find one online at edhtowncenter.com.

Embark on a quest to locate the elusive elves hidden within local businesses by Dec. 24. Once all have been found, return the passport to Face in a Book for a chance to win the grand prize.

■ See EVENTS, page B4

B3

DECEMBER 21, 2023

CRIB NOTES by Julie Samrick

Students’ success in school boils down to this

H

elping young people craft their own pieces of writing is one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching to me, and so since August I’ve been leading a twice monthly writers’ workshop at the El Dorado Hills Library.

When I was planning mini-lessons for the 13- to 17-year-old teen group, I knew I’d have to wait until our first meeting to gauge how I could best meet their needs. To my surprise, our first meet-up was as much about reading as it was writing. Their eyes shone when they shared where they get their inspiration, which is almost all from

the many books they devour. No wonder their love of reading is pouring over into their own writing, I thought, reminded of what I’ve long thought: to be a writer, one must be a reader, and if a person is already a reader, it’s only a matter of time before they become a writer. I listened, amazed by the dizzying amounts of ideas they have, inspired by their verbal acumen. They only need my help shaping and refining these ideas.

The local teens in the writers’ workshop already have the secret sauce to being successful in school and, I’d argue, in life: they are readers.

As my own four kids are now in high school and college, and I’ve returned to classroom teaching, I’m constantly reminded that creating reading habits in our kids when they are young is the single most important thing we can do to ensure their later school success. I’ve seen how reading helps kids with critical thinking, written responses, verbal reasoning, even self-confidence and beyond. Yet according to

the National Assessment of Educational Progress, 25 million children in the U.S. cannot read proficiently.

A child not reading at grade level by the end of first grade has an 88% chance of not reading at grade level by the end of fourth grade. Children who do not read on level by fourth grade are four times less likely to graduate from high school.

Kids are like sponges from birth to age 7. Parents and caregivers of very young children can start by sounding out the alphabet. From there, piece two and three-letter words together and watch when a 2- or 3-year-old realizes they’ve read “hi” or “no.” While the advent of audiobooks is great, they don’t substitute ■ See SAMRICK, page B4

GUEST COLUMN by Ted Gaines

Merry Christmas, California

C

hristmas season is here.

Although in California it can feel much different in the inland deserts and sun-kissed coastal cities than it does in the snowcapped Sierra Nevada, it should be a time of unity for us all. May its lessons of love, warmth, charity and family inspire California politics this month and in our future.

Sacramento inspires strong feelings, especially among conservatives who often feel voiceless in state-level politics and are reduced to complaining about, not solving, the problems they see. Complaining is OK. Identifying problems is important and the first step toward change. But, despite the Democrat stranglehold on Sacramento, opportunity exists everywhere for Republicans. This year, invest yourselves in school boards, city governments, counties, coaching, mentoring and church. State politics is not the end-all, be-all of life. Participate where you can. There you will find hope.

To the Democrats, whose power has been little checked for decades, look charitably upon your Republican colleagues, constituents and their ideas. Your state-level political power is near absolute, but that does not reflect the political makeup of the state itself.

Publisher Richard B. Esposito

Managing Editor Noel Stack

(530) 344-5055

Millions of Republicans you politically. live and work beside In my many years servyou and you may find ing in the Legislature I some wisdom in their found a sincere desire to beliefs, if you let yourself. improve California in all Approaching these ideas my colleagues, regardless with an open mind and of their politics. Our difopen heart may lead to greater political unity ■ See GAINES, page B4 in our state — a goal often discussed but rarely PURCHASE • REFINANCE PURCHASE • REFINANCE achieved. Seek opportunities to hear all voices.

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B4

DECEMBER 21, 2023

Events

STUDENT OF THE YEAR Courtesy photo

We ’ve

M ov ed !

The Rotary Club of El Dorado Hills and local educators honored Lucy Hinkle as Marina Village Middle School Student of the Year.

Lucy received her award at the Dec. 13 EDH Rotary breakfast meeting. She was commended for her excellence in the classroom and her positive, caring attitude. The Rotary Club gave Lucy a plaque, illustrated dictionary and $50 for her efforts. She’s seen here, center, all smiles with, from left, EDH Rotary Club President Scott Draper, her proud parents, Principal Levi Cambridge and Rescue Union School District Superintendent Jim Shoemake.

Elder Options, Inc.

Capture the joy and wonder of the season by getting photos with Santa Claus taken by Charm Photography through Dec. 24 at the California Welcome Center in El Dorado Hills Town Center.

Sutter Street Theatre presents “The Quiltmaker’s Gift” through Dec. 30. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

Apex Toy Drive benefiting Shriners Children’s Northern California takes place through Dec. 31. By contributing one unwrapped toy at The Apex at Red Hawk Casino in Placerville, visitors will receive a $10 coupon applicable for any Apex activity, including karting, bowling, virtual golf and arcade games. For more information call (888) 5733495 or visit redhawkcasino.com.

The Gallery at 48 Natoma in Folsom presents Seasons Greetings: Holiday cards by celebrated artists from the Monroe Wheeler Archive exhibit through Jan. 18. More information is available at folsom.ca.us, the Gallery at 48 Natoma.

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

The El Dorado Hills Town Center Farmers Market takes place year round, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday. Wander behind Nibblers and Trek Bicycle to discover a cornucopia of delights, where local area farms showcase an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. Explore stalls brimming with homemade treasures including jams and cheeses, as well many handmade creations, capturing the essence of community and local craftsmanship.

Dec. 21

“A Life Lived Fully Every Day” Since 1988

Our personalized care management, home care, respite and assisted living services are designed to ensure a safe, happy and fulfilling “every day.”

Elder Options, Inc. Phone: (530) 626-6939 (800) 336-1709

Continued from B2

Sacramento / El Dorado Hills / Folsom Phone: (916) 391-8083

South Lake Tahoe Phone: (530) 541-1812

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El Dorado Musical Theatre presents the High Voltage Holiday Celebration at 7 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net or call (916) 608-6888.

Dec. 22 Sacramento Master Singers presents A Master Singers Christmas at 7:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter. net or call (916) 608-6888.

Dec. 27 Broadway Sacramento presents Dr. Seuss “How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical,” Dec. 27-31 at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center. For tickets and more information call (916) 557-1999 or visit broadwaysacramento.com.

Jan. 3 The Sacred Arts of Tibet Tour of Gaden Shartse Norling Monastery returns to Placerville and Folsom. The tour begins in Folsom, Jan. 3-6 at 1580 Creekside Drive, Community Education Room 1. The tour moves to Placerville Jan. 8-21 at the historica; Federated Church, 1031 Thompson Way. For a detailed schedule visit placervillefriendsoftibet.org.

line at Purchase tickets on -crab-tri-tip-feed edhrotary.org/2023

Jan. 6 Dr. Paul Sunseri is conducting a series of no-cost workshops for parents, therapists and school staff. The third in the series, “Reducing Conflict with Kids by Solving Common Behavior Problems,” is scheduled 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the El Dorado Hills Library. RSVP on Eventbrite.

Illusion

Continued from B2

be done ... or can they?

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 7, at Harris Center for the Arts on the Folsom Lake College campus, 10 College Parkway in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit HarrisCenter.net. Box office hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and one hour before showtime.

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Continued from B3

ferences reflected different approaches to governance but started with the same hope of a brilliant future for our state.

President Lincoln was confronted after the Civil War by a woman who hoped to see the South crushed for its secession. Lincoln said, “Madam, do I not destroy my enemies when I make them my friends?”

May the lessons of the season inspire us all to a politics where we strive to find common ground and destroy our enemies by turning them into our friends.

Merry Christmas, California.

Senator Ted Gaines (ret.) represents the Board of Equalization’s First District, providing trustworthy and transparent representation for nearly 10 million constituents in 34 counties of northern, eastern and southern California. For more information visit boe.ca.gov/Gaines.

Samrick

Continued from B3

for seeing words on a page. Hearing words helps children decipher pronunciation, but it’s most important that children see the words at the same time.

By the time kids are in later elementary school and beyond, many parents spend time and money on prep courses and tutors, but the most effective, and much less expensive, way to create strong students by middle and high school is to get kids reading. One of my alltime favorite reading quotes comes from the classic 1997 film “Good Will Hunting.” Matt Damon plays street-savvy Will Hunting, who struggles as a badtempered janitor at an Ivy League school, all while downplaying his hidden book smarts. At one point Will puts a snobby student in his place, saying, “You wasted $150,000 on an education you could have gotten for $1.50 in late charges at the public library.”

Indeed, libraries are one of our greatest, and often under-utilized, assets.

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.”

Got a news tip or story idea for us?

Submit your idea to Editor Noel Stack editor@villagelife.com

B5

December 21, 2023

2021

Celebrating Your Winners!

Best Sandwich Best Pet Groomer: Dog’s Delight

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.

Address: 359 Green Valley Road El Dorado Hills Phone: (916) 939-3647

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 BestSandwich Solar Company: Solar Savings Direct

2022

BestGift Sandwich of Kids Daycare and Preschool

Address: 5130 Golden Foothill Parkway El Dorado Hills

We offer education and care for babies, Phone: Preschoolers, Pre-K, private Kindergarten, (916) 521-1835 homework tutor club and transportation for school Website: agers. The teachers at The Gift of Kids Daycare and thegiftofkids.net 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

Address: 3867 Dividend Dr., #C

Founded in 2010 and headquartered in El Dorado County, Solar Savings Direct offers its services as far as the Bay Area, Chico and Lake Tahoe, specializing in residential, commercial and municipal solar and battery projects.

Phone: (530) 344-3237 Website: solarsavingsdirect.com

The team at Solar Savings Direct, including COO Jeremy Read, CEO Grant Gluck and CFO Jessica Gluck, helps homeowners cut out the middle man. “You can eliminate all those headaches and hassles by working with an installer directly,” said Grant. Give Solar Savings Direct a call today for a solar power system designed to suit your needs.

Best Flooring: Sacramento Area Wood Specialists

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

Address: 2714 Mercantile Drive Rancho Cordova Phone: (916) 879-1798 Website: sawsflooring.com

Phone: (530) 676-1598

When you’re searching for delicious, gluten-free Website: treats, look no further than Yellow Button Bakery. yellowbuttonbakery @gmail.com 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

Address: 6188 Enterprise Drive, Suit A Diamond Springs

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

Phone: (530) 677-5032 Website: nail-it-roofing.com

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.

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 BestSandwich Contractor: Straight Line Construction

Best Sandwich Best Financial Planner: Shari Merle, LPL Financial

Address: 4415 Commodity Way Shingle Springs

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.

Phone: (916) 985-9995 Website: straightlineconstruction.com

The company now offers residential services for roof replacement and repairs, windows, skylights, gutter systems, decks and siding. Straight Line also offers great customer service, a friendly team and high-quality craftsmanship. The new location offers customers the ability to view product 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.

A resident of El Dorado Hills since 1976, Shari Merle 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.

Address: 981 Governor Drive, Suite 101, El Dorado Hills Phone: (916) 933-2117 Website: sharimerle.com

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.”

B6

DECEMBER 21, 2023

2020

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.

Address: 2280 E. Bidwell St, Suite J200, Folsom Phone: (916) 597-0220 Website: bensbarketplace.com

2021

Best BestSandwich Painting Contractor: E. Durst Painting

Ernie Durst started E. Durst Painting in 2011, bringing 35-plus years of experience to customers.

Phone: (916) 712-7856 Website: edurstpainting.com

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.

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.

“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.”

Best Sandwich Best Private School: Golden Hills School

Big Apple Bagels

Address: 1060 Suncast Lane The Golden Hills School team believes that to become El Dorado Hills the best version of themselves children require the Phone: broadest possible set of opportunities delivered by (916) 933-0100 Website: fully accredited teaching professionals in small-group goldenhillsschool.ne 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

Address: 4361 Town Center Blvd., Ste 110 El Dorado Hills Phone: (916) 939-0389 Website: thaiparadiseedh.com

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 BestSandwich Assisted Living Facility: EDH Senior Care

2920 Tam O’Shanter Drive

El Dorado Hills The El Dorado Hills Senior Care Village has been a staple in El Dorado Hills since 1996. Offering 24-hour (916) 939-0962 care for the elderly in a quaint, homelike environment, eldoradoseniorcare.com 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.

Address: 2209 Francisco Drive,

Sandwich lovers know they’re getting the best at Suite 160, El Dorado Hills Phone: Big Apple Bagels, a restaurant known for fresh bagels (916) 936-4343 made from scratch daily. Whether ordering sensaWebsite: tional, hot breakfast bagel sandwiches (Southern bigapplebagels.com 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

Address: 2222 Francisco Drive, El Dorado Hills Phone: (916) 618-4369 Website: lacascadaedh.com

With authentic Ramos family Mexican recipes handed down through the generations, La Cascada is a favorite for 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.

BestBest Sandwich Travel Agency: El Dorado Hills Travel

3941 Park Drive, Suite 90,

The philosophy of El Dorado Hills Travel is simple: El Dorado Hills Provide a unique vacation experience that will keep (916) 933-0476 customers coming back year after year. With so many edhtravel.com 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.