Holiday 2022

With its grass-roots community origins, MORE is a nonprofit that has been a staple in El Dorado County since 1969. MORE recently celebrated its 53-year anniversary and among other major accomplishments, now resides in a beautiful, newly renovated building which boasts an interactive outdoor garden plaza. MORE provides innovative and progressive programs supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and fully embodies its mission: “Empowering individuals to enhance their quality of life,” which is driven by their vision of full inclusion for ALL people.

MORE has many programs including Supported Employment, a Community Access Program, Creative Arts, Creative Options & Opportunities for People, a Food Program, a Semi-Independent Residential Program , and Independent Living Skills.

MORE is very excited to announce its 19th annual Art & Wine With Something MORE! Their largest annual fundraiser returns as a live event and will take place at the Fairgrounds on January 14, 2023. Art & Wine showcases original art created by MORE’s talented artists, with many pieces available for sale. Local wineries, breweries, distilleries, and food vendors will be providing tastes of our local fares. With a “Roaring 20s” theme, raffle and live and silent auctions, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

To learn MORE about other upcoming projects and what MORE does, visit: www.morerehab.org

28th Year • 4th Quarterly Issue

Holiday 2022

PO Box 641, El Dorado, CA 95623 Phone: 530-303-8980

Web: aroundheremagazine.com

Publisher Around Here Magazine

Editor Sara Pagano

Writers: Forrest Lockhart, Mary Cory, Linda Hanf, Jill Kearney, Jolene Tompkins, Ingrid Hart, Ellen Osborn, Debbie Hager, Glenn Mollette

Distribution per quarterly issue: 12,000+ in the Foothills of El Dorado County, Northern California, USA.

A copy of the current issue is available to individuals at no charge from the libraries, our advertisers and other hightraffic businesses. We reserve the right to limit quantities.

Submissions: Calendar events, news releases of upcoming events and articles of local interest with photos are welcomed, if it’s timely material. Call for deadline. Publisher cannot be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and artwork. To be returned to sender, an SASE must accompany material submitted to Around Here Magazine.

Nonprofits: To submit a community event, note the events listed in the calendar in this issue. The order of the information must be: Date first, Title of event, Activities, etc., with Contact for the Public at the very end. Email to sara@ aroundheremagazine.com. Follow up to make sure it was received.

The information published in Around Here Magazine is believed to be accurate and authoritative but is not intended to substitute for legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Around Here Magazine.

The use of Around Here’s artwork, design, articles or information is prohibited without prior written consent of the publisher. Contents copyright © 2022 by Around Here Magazine, published by Around Here Magazine.

Ask Around..

Each issue will have a new question for you to answer, allowing our community to share and connect!

Question For Next Issue

What’s the resolution or goal you’ve followed through on that you’re the most proud of?

Send an email to sara@aroundheremagazine.com and you could be featured in the next issue!

What Is A Legacy Project?

by Ingrid Hart

A legacy project is a way for your memory to be preserved for generations to come. It’s a gift of your most tender, vulnerable self to be shared with your loved ones, so they can remember your accomplishments, the wisdom you’ve learned through experience, and the love and relationships you’ve nurtured. In short, a legacy project communicates, in various forms, the blessing of having been alive. Read on for some ideas to inspire the creation of your legacy project.

Letters

Out And About

We look forward to seeing your photo here and learning about the place you visited!

Email your photo and information to sara@aroundheremagazine.com

Be sure to show Around Here Magazine prominently when your high-resolution photo is taken.

Identify up to ten people in your life and write a letter sharing what you liked best about them, meaningful moments you shared together, and your hopes for their future.

Photographs

Look at your photographs and pick out 25 of your favorites. For context, write on the back of the photos, the dates, and names of the people and how you know them.

Video

Consider hiring a professional videographer to help tell your life story. If you are on a budget, ask a friend to record you. This visual legacy can be shared with future generations.

Tell Your Story

Write your life story in a journal with prompts to stay on task. Or consider working with an online

company such as storyworth.com. They will send you one question per week and in one year, they will publish a book about your life.

Dedication of Park Bench or Tree

Identify a memorial to keep your memory alive in perpetuity such as a plaque on a park bench or a tree dedication. The money spent on this memorial goes to a good cause such as the Lion’s Club.

Hire a Professional Writer

If you’d like support in launching your legacy project, contact ingrid@yourgracefulexit.com and let’s get started.

Ingrid Hart is the owner of Graceful Exit, a lifeaffirming planning service, and holds a master’s degree in Culture and Spirituality. She and her wonderful husband Ted live in Cameron Park, and are expecting their first grandchild in January 2023.

If you’re going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can’t be erased.

- Maya Angleou -

It’s finally fall! I absolutely love summer, but this year was different. This year I have been waiting and watching for the weather to cool, the leaves to change, and the festivities of the holidays to begin. I get to decorate my house tomorrow and I’m not sure I’ve ever been this excited.

However, my excitement has also been held in check. My son’s birthday is in fall and he just turned 15. We are inching ever closer to his independence and it’s wonderful and terrifying and exciting and heartbreaking. All at the same time. So although I’ve been waiting for fall, I’m trying to soak up every moment of this season in life.

This Holiday issue of Around Here and the articles inside would -I think- best be summed up in one word: MEMORIES. There are stories of local women who gave and shared themselves to benefit others, leaving behind memories of their lives and our area. There are stories about buildings that created memories, through fun and work, that have been repurposed, and continue to provide memories throughout the decades. A feature on trees that still stand in our area connects us to the history of El Dorado County, small reminders of someone else's memories. You’ll also find articles that encourage you to slow down and make your own memories. Right now. It’s a common saying, “it’s all about quality, not quantity,” but why can’t we try to go for both?

So in the hustle and bustle of the impending holiday season, make sure that you keep things simple. Don’t take on too much or put too much pressure on yourself or those around you. Celebrate, connect, give and share, choose joy, and most of all, make wonderful memories.

The Mysterious Christmas Star

by Forrest Lockhart

For two millennia the Star of Bethlehem has been a cornerstone of the story of Christ’s birth in a small village in Judea. The biblical gospel of Matthew recounts that Magi from the east followed a bright star in the vicinity of the constellation of Aries, the ram. It led them to what their tradition foretold would be the birth site of a powerful leader. Matthew recounts the Magi as declaring, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East and have come to worship him.”

Every year, the onset of the Christmas holidays brings new efforts by scientists, theologians, and media gurus to explain what the Magi may have seen. Over time there has been no lack of solutions brought forth. One complication in the search is that biblical scholars have long suggested that the actual birth date of Jesus may have been a few years prior to that reflected by the Gregorian calendar. Dates

ranging from 7 B.C. to as late as 3 A.D. have often been proposed. So, given a range of possible birth dates, what does history offer as a possible Christmas Star? Let’s consider a few possibilities.

One explanation is the sudden outburst of a stellar supernova, the light from a large star violently exploding at the end of its life. If amateur astronomers had access to a time machine, the year 1006 A.D. would be a strong contender for the best time to witness a supernova. In late April of that year, a staggeringly bright “guest star”, now known as SN 1006, exploded into Earth’s skies in the constellation Lupus. The burst of light would have been around 16 times brighter than Venus, typically the second brightest object in Earth’s night sky. Before gradually fading away, it ultimately reached an estimated visual magnitude of -7.5 — easily bright enough to be visible during the day.

On July 4, 1054 A.D., all of Earth was again treated to celestial fireworks as another ‘new star’ appeared in the constellation Taurus the Bull. The supernova — initially brighter than the Moon —

El Dorado County’s Public Access Television Station

VIDEOS

The Mysterious Christmas Star

continued from page 6

slowly faded away over the course of two years. Chinese astrologers of the time kept meticulous records of its appearance. Many other ancient cultures around the world likely saw the bright object also. Some of the most intriguing possible recordings of this ‘new star’ are found in petroglyphs at Chaco Canyon National Park in New Mexico, and scattered throughout the surrounding region. Some astronomers maintain that certain rock art designs found there depict the supernova, though other researchers have questioned that idea.

However, while supernovae do occur, one near enough to have been so visible would have left lingering traces of its demise in the atmosphere. No trace of a nova in the vicinity of Aries has been found. Also, a bright supernova would have been documented by everyone on Earth, yet, not surprisingly, no record from that time exists elsewhere for such a cosmic event.

Ancient Roman astrologers interpreted the infrequent conjunction, or close alignment, of major planets, and the occasional eclipse of the planet Jupiter by the Moon, as signifying great events, such as the birth of a king. Records show a conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in the year 7 B.C. The

Moon eclipsed Jupiter twice in the year 6 B.C. Interestingly, during the winter of 6 B.C. the world witnessed a very rare conjunction of the planets Mars, Jupiter and Saturn. Could any of these events have prompted the Christmas star story?

A troubling fact regarding the Christmas Star question is that the only biblical reference to the Star of Bethlehem is found in the gospel of Matthew. No other mention of the star is found. There are many theories about why Matthew would have included the Star of Bethlehem in his record of Christ’s birth. Some say it may have been a symbolic reference to the Old Testament prediction that the birth of the King of the Jews would be proclaimed by a bright star rising from the House of David.

Be it fact or fiction, myth or miracle, we may never know the identity of the Star of Bethlehem for certain. I’m content with that for, from cradle to grave, there should always be a place for mystery and wonder in our lives. With joyous signs of Christmas all around us this season, what better source of wonder than the story of a mystical light from the heavens above.

Local Community Observatory Docents Wanted!

Do you love what’s up above? Want to share your knowledge and enthusiasm with others? Have you considered being a DOCENT for the Community Observatory?

Docents are volunteers who have a passion for astronomy and are willing to donate their time and knowledge to make sure the Observatory experience is both educational and rewarding. They are the guides to the universe and a source of interesting information about current cosmic events, deep space objects, stars, planets, and the observatory facility and telescopes.

Volunteer opportunities include:

• Working with the telescopes

• Sky Tours

• Greeters

• Kids Zone

• Event Planning

• Fundraising

• Administrative

For information, contact the El Dorado County Office of Education at (530) 622-7130 ext 0, or visit the website at communityobservatory. com/docent1

Forrest Lockhart - his Christmas star resides on his yule tree.

The UPS Store

The Holiday Helpers

The name UPS has become synonymous with shipping, but did you know it’s more than just a shipping hub? Nick Shelat, the owner of the Folsom UPS Store (near old town) and Cameron Park UPS Store, reminds our community that you are not alone. The UPS Store is here to help with shredding, packaging, notary, mailboxes, business cards, banners, and large item freight.

Here are some of the wonderful services they provide:

» When you start a new job or take the first step towards volunteering, you are often asked for a live scan. Schools, non-profits, and businesses all utilize this service to check forcriminal background, and the UPS Store offers a convenient, quick and easy way to get this done while out.

» The UPS Store also facilitates product and gift returns. Not only do they participate in the Amazon Return Program, but are also piloting new programs that simplify the return process. Arrive with a Return QR code and item, and the staff at UPS will get it processed and returned!

» Covid taught us many things, and the UPS Store has decided to keep much of their cleaning and health safety protocols. Cleaning procedures, hand sanitizer, and separator screens are continued measures to keep staff and customers healthy.

» The UPS Store has that perfect gift for the special someone who already has everything, or they will help update your own home’s wall art! Canvas frames are a great way to commemorate wonderful memories, family favorites, and loved ones. The UPS Store makes the process simple: bring in a high-quality photo, select the size of the canvas frame, then enjoy the beautiful canvas frame art or gift to a friend or family member.

» And don’t forget, the Cameron Park and Folsom UPS locations are Toys For Tots drop-off locations! Bring an unwrapped gift when you visit.

Cameron Park and Folsom UPS Store are a one-stop shop for many holiday AND everyday needs!

For questions or more information, call 530.677.9277 (Cameron Park) or 916.983.3060 (Folsom)

Congratulations, El Dorado County Library!

Storytimes at our local library, as voted by Style Magazine readers:

2022 Award Winner for “Best Kid’s Activity”

For a complete calendar of library events, visit engagedpatrons.com/eventscalendar

Adult Book Clubs at the Library

Cameron Park - 1st Monday/month at 11a (traditional) & 3rd Tuesday/month at 1p (book share)

Placerville - 3rd Wednesday/month at noon

Georgetown, last Thursday/month at 1p eldoradolibrary.org/book-clubs-at-the-library

Rainy Day Birthdays

I love summer. I love being outdoors. And I love a good party. But I was born in December and let’s be honest, there are fewer fun outings for your birthday when you’re a kid in winter. Engaging and active options are a little harder to find, so I’ve put together a list of possible indoor party ideas for the young to old.

I think the trick is, no matter the age, find an interest or a passion - then find a way to bring it to life and share it with those around you!

Here are a few of the possibilities available in our community.

ALL AGES

Placerville Cinema cinemawest.com (be sure Placerville Cinema is selected)

Private Movie screenings.

Knotty Pines knottypinelanes.com

530.644.5414

Variety of attractions include mini golf, lasertag, bowling and bounce house.

Pizza Factory

Cameron Park - 530.677.3611

Placerville - 530.626.3611

Pollock Pines - 530.647.1944

Round Table Cameron Park - 530.677.0666

Placerville - 530.621.0682

Trip to the Theatre

See page 29 for local shows

Pricing ranges from $5 - $25

JC's Mobile Gaming jcmobilegaming.com

530.409.9067

Hangtown Billiards hangtownbilliards.com

530.344.7502

Paint Nite

Paint with Deanna facebook.com/paintwithdeanna 530.320.0849

Cathy Urquart cathiespaintparties.com

530.409.1914

Cookie Decorating Randi Raye’s Cookie Co. randirayescookieco.com

JoJo’s Bakery jojos-bakery.com

530.558.9062

Face Painting

Rabbit Whole Studio rabbitwholestudio.com 530.558.0020

Parties Galore partiesgalore.com

Face Painter Kimberly facepainterkimberly.com

KIDS

Tumble Time tumbletime.net

530.677.3893

Saturday only

Exhilaration Station exhilarationstation.org

530.303.3372

Groups up to 20 kids,

ADULTS

Whiskey, Wine or Beer Tasting Whiskey tasting drydiggings.com - groups up to 10

Brewies and wineries galore!

Main St has a few tasting rooms, too!

Dancing!

Smith Flat House offers lessons each Friday, 6p - 9p. smithflathouse.com

Axe Throwing

Bearded Axe Throwing Lanes thebeardedaxethrowinglanes.com

Murder Mystery

Host your own murder mystery at home! Links on AHM Facebook.

And keep up to date on local events at aroundheremagazine.com/events

Disclaimer: This is not ALL the options in EDC, but hopefully enough to get you exploring. Let me know what I missed and applicable options will be added before the list is immortalized on the website: aroudheremagazine.com!

The Story of Sam’s Town

by Linda Hanf

It would be an understatement to say Sam’s Town was a “fun place.” Fact is, it was more like an “overthe-moon FUN place!”

Sam’s Town in Cameron Park once entertained and fed millions of people over 37 years from 1967 to 2000. It wasn’t just a local hot spot; it was known far and wide. Sam’s was an icon.

Patrons were attracted by the Old West atmosphere and activities. Road weary travelers along Hwy 50 stopped to replenish with food and drink on their way to Tahoe. Locals loved to go there too, treating their relatives and visitors to a couple hours of “time travel” back to the Old West.

When Sam’s Town closed in 2000, it left behind a treasure trove of memories stored in the collective

minds of employees, teens who worked there or hung out there, as well as visitors, travelers and local residents.

Sam’s Town had superb exposure. About a quarter mile of Sam’s property ran along Hwy 50. Plus, the large attention-getting building caught people’s eyes.

Sam’s sat right off Hwy 50 and Cameron Park Drive, easy to see by highway passersby. The exterior facade was ornate, a colorful depiction of an Old West town. It was bright with lights and sported the old-fashioned “gas” street lamps near the entry. A huge marquee sign ringed with dazzling bulbs announced “Sam’s Town, the family fun place,” signaling “this is a place not to miss folks.”

At the entrance, patrons could feel the excitement starting with the raggedy sounds of honkytonk music. Once inside and when patrons’ eyes adjusted to the low light, pockets of bright color came into view. Glowing lights, illuminated signs and 1800 glitz could be seen everywhere; a maze of rooms beckoning people’s curiosity.

on page 11

Casey Sanchez Realtor

Linda Hanf and her family visiting Sam’s Town. Photo courtesy of Linda Hanf.

Sam’s Town

continued from page 10

“To the extreme left was the Gunfighter room where Old West guns are displayed in glass cases on the walls,” notes Mike Arkus, former employee. The Gunfighter room provided extra seating near the snack bar.

Mike was employed many years at Sam’s. He started working different jobs and was promoted to manager, working there from 1978 to 1982 and, as if he couldn’t get enough, from 1984 to 1992. Today, Mike’s feet tread the same geographic space. When the Sam’s Town property was sold, it became a strip of local shop franchises and a Food For Less, now a Forklift grocery store where Mike currently works.

first made his claim to fame starting Sam’s Hof Brau in Sacramento in 1959. You may have heard Sam referred to as the “Hof Brau King of Sacramento.”

He sold the hof brau and his several restaurants to Denny’s Corp. Sam’s Hof Brau — in Sacramento on Watt at El Camino Ave. — is again owned by Sam Gordon’s family. In 1968, the restaurateur put his name to a new venture: Sam’s Town.

The Red Coach Inn was vital to the parcel Sam bought. He turned it into what became Sam’s Town’s Honky-Tonk room. He expanded grandly from there to 30,000 square feet.

At its peak in the 1980s, Sam’s Town had a huge parking lot to accommodate not only many cars but also the many charter buses

that made their pit stop on the way to Tahoe. At one time a Calistoga wagon sat on the lot; another time, a stage coach; another time the wagon cage that trapped actor Charlton Heston in the movie “Planet of the Apes.”

Just inside Sam’s was the snack bar, where bus drivers guided their passengers for quick sandwiches and beverages. “We had a 3040 minute hustle,” Mike Arkus remembers, “to get all the people taken care of so they could keep to the bus schedule and get to Tahoe.” If there is one thing people remember most about Sam’s Town, it is the saw dust and scattered peanut shells on the floors, especially in the Honky Tonk room.

continued on page 23

Sam Town’s owner Sam Gordon

“If there is one thing people remember the most about Sam’s Town, it is the sawdust and peanut shells on the floor..”

Sam’s Town in its heyday. Photo credit Sam’s Hof Brau, Sacramento

Women Making History

by Mary Cory

There are so many true stories to tell from El Dorado County’s history. Some of these stories are familiar and have been kept alive by their retelling, such as Wheelbarrow Johnny’s experience building wheelbarrows in Placerville, or Snowshoe Thompson’s epic journeys every winter delivering the mail. However, there are many stories that don’t get regularly told. The El Dorado County Historical Museum exhibit Women of Influence was an opportunity to tell some of those true stories. This special exhibit was installed at the County Museum in June 2019 after months of research and preparation. It was by far our most ambitious exhibit at the County Museum. Even though, as all temporary exhibits must, it was changed out for another exhibit in 2022, parts of the original Women of Influence can still be seen in other permanent exhibits at the County Museum.

After spending time with the County Museum’s incredible collection of digitized historical photographs, over 200 photographs were selected that depicted women in El Dorado County from about 1850 to 1975. The photographs record a special time - showing women working, playing, taking care of their families, and commemorating big events. These photographs date from the periods of time when the act of taking a photograph was an event in itself. We have become so used to quickly snapping thousands of digital photos with our phones, which can be scrolled through with the touch of a finger. Historical photographs were taken with much more deliberation, framed and hung on the wall, kept in photograph albums or shoe boxes, and looked at as a part of passing down family stories. Part of appreciating the past is to ask questions about each photograph itself. Why was it taken? Who was the photographer? What do we know about the people in the photograph? Where did they live? What are they doing?

These questions led to the exhibit Women of Influence and a desire to capture the history of some of the women that lived in El Dorado County. After examining the Museum’s collection of artifacts, textiles, and historical photographs, we highlighted the stories of five El Dorado County women. Many women’s stories don’t make it into the history books. We hoped that this exhibit would help bring some of those stories, big and small, to the surface. We dedicated this exhibit to the many women in the County’s past who met the demands of their times, sometimes pushing boundaries and inspiring us to face the challenges of today.

This is Part 1 of a continuing series of articles about only a few of the women who made history in El Dorado County,

Margaret Kelly with one of her many classes circa 1907

Stella Tracy as a young girl.

Lulu Weatherwax (circled) enjoying time socializing.

Women Making History

Part 1 of a series

Margaret Kelley Educator

Margaret Kelley was an educator for over 50 years who touched the lives of many students as a teacher and principal. In most of El Dorado County, a teacher was in charge of a one-room schoolhouse with students ranging from first to eighth grades. According to the law, when there were six eligible students in a region, a school should be established and a teacher hired. The teacher might have training from a “normal” school (a training college for teachers) and would board during the school week with the family of one of their students.

Margaret Kelley, seen below, was a teacher and school principal for over 50 years. Margaret was also a good friend to James Marshall, the “discoverer of gold.” In 1921, she opened the first Museum in El Dorado County at the site of James Marshall’s blacksmith shop in Kelsey, dedicated to the Gold Rush and James Marshall.

Stella Tracy Philanthropist

Stella Ralston Tracy was a prominent figure in Placerville Society and was interested in the preservation of county history. Her parents were “well-todo”, and Stella grew up in Placerville - attending musicales, participating in local theatre productions, and accompanying her mother, who was a professional musician and singer, on tour. Stella graduated from San Jose State College in 1895, and taught school for 8 years.

She married Perry Tracy, coowner of Tracy Shoe Store, and settled into a fine house with many furnishings provided by their parents. Perry Tracy and his brother owned and operated the Tracy Shoe Store on Main Street. Started by their father, the Tracy building now houses the Heyday Cafe.

Stella and Perry’s home was demolished in the early 1950s, along with many others on Union Street, to make way for Highway 50. Stella, by then a widow, moved to a smaller house on Coloma Street where she resided until her death, surrounded by her many antiques and relics of Placerville’s past.

Several of her dresses, furnishings from her home, and her musical instruments, including the guitar pictured above, are on display at the El Dorado County Museum Women of Influence exhibit . Stella remained interested in the county’s history all her life. She was an active member of the El Dorado County Historical Society, a prominent member of the Shakespeare Club, and upon her death in 1968, she left college scholarships for students graduating from El Dorado County High Schools. She left her home on Coloma Street and its contents to the El Dorado County Historical Society.

Many of these items are on display at the County Museum, and at the Historical Society’s Fountain & Tallman Museum on Main Street.

*Photos courtesy of El Dorado County History Museum

Margaret Kelley in front of the museum she founded in Kelsey, 1921

Stella Tracy holding the guitar in her parlor on Union Street.

continued from page 13

Lulu Weatherwax Artist

Lulu Weatherwax was the only child of Charles and Sarah Weatherwax, born in Placerville in 1873, three years after her parents were married. Like Stella, she grew up in one of the fine homes in Placerville, located at the corner of Bedford and Coleman St, where the house still stands today. She never married and continued to live with her parents, staying in the house until 1945. Lulu then moved to San Francisco, where she died in 1950 at the age of 77.

In her obituary, Lulu is described as “a ceramist and painter.” Several examples of her oil paintings and painted china are on display at the El Dorado County Historical Museum. She submitted her work to the Pan Pacific Exposition in San Francisco in 1915, winning a ribbon. In her 20s and 30s she advertised her painted china in the Mt. Democrat and she is remembered as having one of the first kilns in Placerville.

China painting was a late 19th and early 20th century pastime, livelihood and art for many American women. Most of the work was done by the overglaze process, which involved painting a previously fired hardchina blank, and then refiring it, making the painted design a permanent decoration. China painting was so popular that importers sold a wide variety of blanks, and advertised “the best of all the new shapes in French and German china.” The paints themselves became widely available and could be purchased in shops in Placerville. Instruction books helped disseminate information on china painting techniques and processes to enthusiasts.

Unfortunately, we don’t know what the inspiration for Lulu’s artistic expression was, as there is nothing known in her own words. Her work was probably given as gifts to friends and family, and she entered pieces into competitions. Her studio was a familiar place to many art lovers in Placerville, as was stated in her obituary, published in the Mountain Democrat in 1950. Her signature is a simple “LW” on the underside of a plate or vase. With only the bare outlines of Lulu’s life known to us now, her art is what we now have to remember her by.

Stay tuned for Part 2: More stories of women in El Dorado County’s history.

Mary Cory is the curator of the El Dorado County Museum and has a tangible passion for history and all things El Dorado County.

*All photos courtesy of the El Dorado County History Museum.

The Bright Side

What do you call it when a snowman throws a tantrum? A meltdown

Which is faster, hot or cold? Hot, because you can catch a cold.

Riddle Me This

1. A man went outside in the rain without an umbrella or a hat and didn’t get a single hair on his head wet. How?

2. I’m tall when I’m young, but short when I’m old. What am I?

3. What has many needles but can’t sew?

Riddle answers on page 26

Give the Gift of Around Here Magazine

Never miss an issue again.

Local history, recipes, events and more, delivered to your door!

$20 Annual Subscriptions

Now available online at aroundheremagazine.com/subscribe (or send a check with the form on page 26.)

Lulu’s artist signature

Exhibit that includes items from Lulu and Stella.

We think of the pioneers of the Gold Country as long gone, with only scattered headstones and dilapidated cabins melting back into the earth to remind us of their existence. But that is not entirely true. There are living pioneers around us. They are trees brought by the settlers to remind them of home, or to provide food or medicine. Whether they came as seeds, cuttings or saplings, they took root and continued to thrive.

A good example is the Lombardy Poplars (Populus nigra 'Italica') that mark the locations of former roadhouses along the emigrant trail, or the site of a farmhouse. It is almost certain that wherever you see one today a human habitation was once nearby. These Lombardy Poplars, so prized in the 19th century for their columnar shape, hardiness and rapid growth, are most noticeable in the fall, when their leaves turn a bright golden yellow. There are a few to be seen alongside Highway 50 in Placerville, or between the South Fork of the American River and Highway 50 west of Kyburz, where the Riverton Hotel once stood.

The last of the Wakamatsu Japanese settlers is a Keyaki Elm (Zelkova Serrata). It has survived the dispersal of the members of this failed colony and the demise of the tea plants that were part of the purpose of the Wakamatsu Silk and Tea Colony. Today it spreads its wide limbs protectively over the old farmhouse and garden.

Living Pioneers

by Ellen Osborn

It is thought to be the oldest and largest Keyaki outside of Japan. It is unknown why they brought a single tree, usually considered valuable for lumber, except that it reminded them of home. To enjoy this special tree, visit Wakamatsu at 941 Cold Springs Road, Placerville, during one of their public events.

County. It still produces a few apples.

Bringing fruit trees west had been an American custom since the days of Johnny Appleseed. John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed, found his niche by sprouting apple seeds and selling the apple saplings to westwardbound settlers who would need to plant fruit trees to meet one of the requirements to keep the land they were homesteading. Even after his death in 1845, the practice continued. Incidentally, a genuine Johnny Appleseed tree descendant can be visited at Halloran’s Apple Acres in Apple Hill where the El Dorado Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution planted it for school children to enjoy.

In a meadow near Larsen’s Apple Barn and Bakeshop on Larsen Drive, Camino, in Apple Hill, is an impressive, gnarled and obviously old apple tree. It may have been planted as early as 1860, when the Larsen family arrived in El Dorado

The Chinese miners were closely associated with the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus Atissima,) a native of China. This invasive non-native can be found in almost every corner

Keyaki Tree at Wakamatsu Farm.

Photo courtesy of American River Conservancy.

Take in the sights and smells of winding country roads through leafy apple groves and Christmas tree farms, as you travel to premium wine vineyards and wineries. Why travel for hours? Within miles of our doorstep sits the expansive El Dorado County Wine Region. If you think great wines only come from well know regions, think again. Better yet, taste for yourself. El Dorado County wineries compete in the same wine competitions as the Napa and Sonoma wineries, and have earned comparable medals and wine ratings.

Vittorio

PortWinery& Bar

Wine& Port Tasting Wine& Port Tasting

diVittorio Winery is a boutique winery in the Sierra Foothills. We have used a traditional wine making process since the diVittorio Family emigrated to America about 1904. The commercial winery opened in 2001.

El Dorado County fruits are used to produce fine red wines, fruit wines and port wines. Enjoy table wines and spirits that reflect traditional taste and quality, enhanced by innovation and creative thought.

Winemakers: Albert & Sally diVittorio

Tasting Room is Open

Friday - Sunday, 11-5pm or by appointment

Camino Wine Plaza ~ 3500 Carson Rd, Camino, CA ~ divittoriowinery.com ~ 530.621.2166

El Dorado County Wine Country: Beginners Welcome!

by Jolene Tompkins

El Dorado County is a less commercialized region for wineries, with many often familyowned. Winemakers or Cellar Masters may personally pour your tastes or show you around. In the fall, if the annual crush is happening, you can sometimes meander outside to watch and talk to the crews, or maybe even the Vineyard Manager. These experiences are less likely in the larger Napa and Sonoma wineries.

Never visited a winery before? Well, wine snobbery can be a thing of the past! Get comfortable and ready for discovery as we cover some of the basics of wine-making and tasting.

Wine is an agricultural product. Premium French varietal wine grapes, such as Chardonnay and Cabernet, are grown on pest and disease resistant root stock. The grapes are harvested in the fall when they are at the perfect sugar level, and crushed the same day. The juice is then pumped into tanks and bins to ferment, converting the sugar into alcohol. Following the fermentation process, the wine is filtered and goes into barrels or tanks. It will stay in the tanks or barrels for a few months or a few years, depending on the desired outcome. When the fermentation process is complete, it is bottled and aged again.

Now our fun begins! Wineries generally offer anywhere from 3 to 8 wines.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

∙ Whether sampling white or red wines, they are poured in a specific order, from dry (not sweet) to bolder, sweeter wines. There are no rules about tasting except don’t go backwards. It has the same effect of drinking orange juice after brushing your teeth.

∙ Dessert wines may turn you into a wine lover.

∙ Talk with the hospitality staff, they are there to educate and guide you to what YOU LIKE.

∙ If a sample does not suit your taste, or you don’t want to finish your pour, just add it to the dump bucket, but never spit into the bucket.

∙ Remember the headache eraser –water. Drink as much water as you do wine.

Cheers!

For more information, visit the El Dorado County Winery Association at eldoradowines.org

Jolene Tompkins is the former founder & editor of the Sierra Foothill Vine Times and grew up in the Foothills while the wineries were establishing and quietly evolving.

Camino ~ El Dorado County

Wine Tasting ~ Sales ~ Distribution

Assistance League Sierra Foothills

Living Christmas

by Debbie Hager

The Assistance League ® Sierra Foothills is an all-volunteer organization supporting youth and seniors in El Dorado County. Flagship program Operation School Bell ® and Sports Locker provide disadvantaged children with new school clothes and youth sports scholarships. Additional programs aid youth with reading skills, seniors with social interactions, young adults with post-secondary tuition scholarships, and children who are being relocated to new homes because of abuse or neglect with duffel bags in which to carry their belongings.

Chapter Meetings (public welcome) are held every fourth Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Faith Episcopal Church in Cameron Park. Come revel in holiday ambience and enjoy “Jingle! Mingle!” fundraiser, December 4 th . Indulge in craft beverages, food samplings, seasonal entertainment, beautiful raffle baskets, decorated Christmas trees, Christmas boutique and unique offerings by local artisans.

For more information visit assistanceleague.org/sierra-foothills

Living Christmas trees are festive and beautiful for the holiday season, as well as a new addition to your landscape after the holidays. Make certain that the tree will fit into your landscape and that the type of tree you are considering will ultimately thrive in your local environment. Most evergreen trees grow to be quite large, so it is important to take mature size into account during the decision-making process. Consider when the tree can be planted; if the ground is frozen, the tree will need to be cared for outdoors until a good planting time arrives.

Following the purchase of your tree, it needs to be watered and protected from the weather during a transition period. Do not bring it inside right away! The tree should be left in the garage or a covered outside area to ease the transition to being indoors. A thorough cleaning of debris should also be done at this time.

The placement of the tree indoors should be away from heating ducts, fireplaces or wood stoves. Decorate the tree with lights that produce little heat and water the tree regularly to keep the soil and roots moist. Provide as much natural light as possible. A week, seven days, is the premium time for a living tree to be indoors.

After the holidays, move the tree outdoors to a cool, bright porch for a few days to ease the transition back to outdoor temperatures.

When planting the tree, make certain that the top of the root ball or the tree crown is at, or slightly above ground level. Water the tree deeply and apply mulch

Colorado Blue Spruce Picea pungens “Glauca” is a good choice for a living Christmas tree. This spruce grows about one foot a year and likes plenty of water, so is a good choice near lawns.

continued on page 18

Colorado Blue Spruce ‘Glauca”

Photo courtesy of Pauline Atkins, UCCE El Dorado Master Gardener.

Living Christmas

continued from page 17

The Colorado Blue Spruce is also good in a large planter for several years. The Dwarf Alberta Spruce Picea glauca ‘Conica’ grows very slowly, about three or four inches a year, and can be grown for years in a container as a small Christmas tree. The dwarf spruce is conical in shape and prefers regular watering, soil enriched with organic material, and shade from the hottest afternoon sun.

Christmas trees are usually more expensive than cut Christmas trees, but they also provide more value and create less waste.

A week is the premium time for a living tree to be indoors.

Enjoy the upcoming holiday season!

For more information about the demonstration gardens and monthly classes, hours, to sign up for newsletters,or even to ask a gardening question, visit the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County website found at mgeldorado.ucanr.edu.

Debbie Hager is a UCCE El Dorado Master Gardener.

Local Lifesavers

Looking for a designated driver other than to rock paper scissors in the parking lot or have a foot race to the company holiday party open bar?

You’ve got options...

El Dorado Taxi 530.647.6767

Hangtown Taxi 530.748.8294

Ride W/ Friends 916.716.7679

Cheri Love 916.224.5436

Niki Simpson 530.676.1277

Uber & Lyft Apps

Many of these businesses allow for reservations or flexible pickup/drop-off. Take a photo of these numbers for use later and have a safe holiday season!

Douglas Fir Pseudotsuga menziesii and White Fir Abies concolor are also popular choices for living Christmas trees. They are moderate to fast growers depending on elevation.

There is something very special about displaying a living Christmas tree that provides a tree for you to plant in your garden or in a container after the holidays. Living

☑ new, used, vintage books

☑ all ages, all interests

☑ greeting cards

☑ puzzles

Need a Stocking Stuffer? Can’t decide on the perfect gift? We have gift certificates!

3000 Green Valley Road Cameron Park, CA 530.350.8903

www.bookhousecp.com

Our Online Inventory lets you shop in your pajamas!

Dwarf Alberta Spruce “Conica”

Photo courtesy of Susan Zito, UCCE El Dorado Master Gardener

“Halloween is the beginning of the holiday shopping season. That’s for women. The beginning of the holiday shopping season for men is Christmas Eve.”

-David Letterman-

continued from page 11

Tossing peanut shells on the floor was encouraged and the kids loved it.

Live music drifted through the air on long Thursday-Monday weekends. “Big Al & The Honky Tonkers” drew a crowd, says Mike Arkus.

Shingle Springs resident Judy Ziesmer — who did a temporary, part-time stint as a cocktail waitress — recalls that Jim Snoke, a Business and Computer Science professor at American River College, played the banjo. She adds that her husband, Doug Ziesmer, worked with Eddie Smith in repairing the arcade machines.

The Arcade room was very popular. Early on, it was filled with favorite games like pin ball and Skee-Ball. And by the ‘80s it was a gamer’s paradise with every video and arcade game you could think of. The number of games was said to be “massive.” Judy Ziesmer noted “200.” She ought to know; her husband helped repair them.

When playing the games — practically for “peanuts,” aka 2 bits — “You could win coupons that gave you an opportunity to buy candy in the General Store,” notes Mike Arkus.

The Lillian Russell room, located to the right of the main area, “was a fine dining restaurant that offered chateaubriand. It was rolled in on a covered serving cart and prepared

at the table,” Mike says.

True to the old-time classy establishments, there were paintings of nude ladies adorning the room’s walls — displayed within the bounds of good taste, of course.

Placerville resident Judy Onorato recalls, “We used to take our kids to Sam’s… there was a lot for the kids to do: games, candy store and much more.”

“When going into the elegant Lillian Russell room,” she adds,

“we’d tell our kids not to look at the pictures on the walls. The nude women were from the era of big boobs and big bottoms. The kids would look anyway and giggle the whole time.”

Sam’s also had a stage that featured bands, mostly country bands and honky tonk.

“One time,” Judy Onorato says, my step-daughter, just 10, got up on stage and sang with the band

Barbiana

Frank Vilt’s Cakes

Unlocked Fitness

‘Brothers’ Sewing & Vacuum

Cameron Park Dr, Cameron Park • Cameron Oaks Shopping Center • Behind Safeway

The Lillian Russell room with its "infamous” paintings.

El Dorado County Museum

Placerville has many stories and characters that revolve around delivering the mail. Snowshoe Thompson is probably the most recognizable character locally, stepping into the wintery scene on his skis and hauling 60-pound bags of mail over the mountains to the snow-bound folks in Carson City and Genoa. When Thompson applied for this job, the Placerville Post Office was located at 248 Main Street. Since then, citizens have collected mail from post offices constructed all along Main Street.

But in 1940, Placerville received a state-of-the-art Federal Post Office at what is now 515 Main Street. The site, located at the corner of Main Street and Bedford Avenue, was originally called Stony Point. Clearing off all evidence of the saloons and stores that had occupied that corner, a great pit was dug. Rebar and concrete were poured to erect a solid, cubical 10,000-square

515 Main Street

by Jill

foot structure. Following a general plan put together by the government, the building would be nearly indestructible, garnished with elaborate gratings upon the windows, eagle embellishment above the main door, tile and a polished terrazzo main lobby and a unique-to-the-area mural above the Postmasters office.

cheaper at that time. President Franklin Roosevelt was implementing programs and relief to get Americans out of the Great Depression - back to work and with pride in what they did. Many bridges and roads in our county were improved and/or created by citizens employed by these projects. The post office at 515 Main Street remained in operation through the years until the 1970’s. As with all forms of communication, upgrades and expansions happen, and the growth of our county necessitated another change of address for the mailman.

The building was called a WPA (Works Project Administration) project and labor was considerably

After the post office moved to its new facility on Sacramento Street, the El Dorado County District Attorney’s offices moved into 515 Main Street. The Eagle embellishments, iron grating and wainscoting suited them well, and the interior of the building was divided up into workstations,

Kearney

The building of 515 Main St. Photo courtesy of EDC History Museum.

515 Main Street, March 1971

El Dorado County History Museum

continued from page 24

file rooms and evidence rooms. Situated directly across Bedford Avenue from the county courthouse, the location was a perfect fit for the DA for many years. Eventually, like the mailman, the District Attorney had to shop for bigger, better housing.

With its building life cycle complete, the historic county building was considered county surplus in 2018. However, with its roots in history and as an important part of our past, 515 Main Street is a Historic Building according to the State of California.

This brought it to the attention of the El Dorado County Historical Society, whose mission is for the preservation of our county’s rich history. Owning and operating the Historic 524 building directly across the street (the Fountain & Tallman Museum), the group realized the potential for creating an incredible interpretive compound for community and tourist visitors. The buildings serve as bookends for the Gold Rush of California: the Fountain & Tallman was erected in 1852, symbolizing the early years of the clamor for Gold, and the WPA Post office, symbolizing WWII and the declaration by President Roosevelt that gold mining was a non-essential operation, virtually ending the life of mining in EL Dorado County.

The Historical Society began negotiations with the Board of Supervisors for ownership of 515 Main Street and created a proposal, listing plans for the building’s preservation, restoration and creation of an interpretive and educational center highlighting the geological reason for the Gold Rush. It soon became apparent that this effort needed its own elite group to focus on such a large and notable project. With the help of the Historical Society, a new non-profit corporation was formed called El Dorado Gold 1848. Their mission statement: “to create a museum to display heritage and enhance future endeavors through education, the preservation of historical buildings and historical artifacts.”

El Dorado Gold 1848 has big plans for the historic building. They have worked to create office space for other El Dorado County 501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations in the downstairs area and are already working on a rock and gem display in the original safe on the main level. Pursuing grants and finding ways to restore and maintain the building takes focus, time and patience. A historic building comes with its own unique set of needs. Repairs to a leaky roof were made thanks to an anonymous donor, but painting the exterior, restoring the original fixtures, and bringing the interior back to life will be a process over time, one which they

are excited to see move closer to reality. Those interested in following this journey or contributing to its realization can find information on the El Dorado Gold 1848 website, edg1848.org.

One important local landmark that helps soften the imposing angles of 515 Main Street is Placerville’s Christmas Tree, which sprouted from the idea of one of President Franklin Roosevelts predecessors, Calvin Coolidge, who initiated the first United States National Community Christmas Tree in 1924. This theme became popular in communities everywhere, and Placerville was no exception. The small parcel of land was transferred to the City of Placerville by the Moyle family, and between 1926 and 1928 a long series of trees were planted on the site to provide Placerville with a stately Christmas symbol. At one point, frustrated at the growth rate of the redwood seedlings, the volunteer fire department dug up a 20’ fir tree and planted it, though it did not work as planned. Subsequent trees were planted by Lloyd Raffeto, the Blair Family and the Family of Dr. S.H. Rantz, but it is impossible to say for certain whose tree it is that now shines with Christmas lights every December and graces the front corner of 515 Main Street. It’s just one more bit of history that makes Placerville so special.

Jill Kearney is a local historian and author, as well as President of the El Dorado County Historical Society.

“The buildings (post office and Fountain & Tallman museum) serve as bookends for the Gold Rush of California..”

Living Pioneers

continued from page 15

of the county, even growing in cracks in pavement, and can reach a height of over 50 feet. The Tree

of Heaven can be recognized by its rough bark, large, fern-like leaves and unpleasant odor. They can be seen growing among the roadside weeds along Highway 50 as it passes through Placerville.

The roots, leaves and bark have been used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its name comes from its manner of growth, always pushing straight up to the heavens. It is unclear who brought the first plants to California, but they are proving tough to eradicate.

Once the emigration changed from primarily gold-seekers to settlers planning to establish farms, the wagons west contained a variety

of plants of all kinds. In order to survive the long journey, the emigrants had to carefully tend the saplings, often sharing scarce water with them. It is impossible today to know how many trees were brought west that didn’t survive. Today, these remaining pioneer trees stand as silent reminders of our shared past.

Ellen Osborn lives in Pollock Pines, CA. She recently published a book of early El Dorado County history, A Lovely And Comfortable Heritage Lost available at local booksellers, Amazon or slyparkbooks@gmail.com.

Tree of Heaven on Main Street across from the entrance to Placerville’s Town Hall.

Ellen Osborn

Sam’s Town

continued from page 23

that was playing. Now she sings in Nashville.”

On a long wall in the main area near the stage was a bar about 35 feet long. Sam’s Town’s main premise was to please patrons with good food and good family fun. And certainly, at the bar, icy

The General Store included a candy shop section with barrels of olde-tyme candy. From there — almost hidden away —you could enter the Museum of magnificent memorabilia and antiques.

Antiques were a huge passion of Sam Gordon’s, as well as baseball. Incredibly, the Museum had turn

appealing way. Sam lived a long life, passing in 1998 at age 91.

“Sam’s Town was a phenomenal place. It’s hard to imagine ever seeing anything like that again,” says Mike Arkus.

mugs full of root beer or beer were popular.

Judy Ziesmer adds, “The arcade games kept the kids entertained while the adults enjoyed food, music and libation.”

Local artists remember the detailed illustrations of old mines and miners that lined the walls by the late George Mathis, a well known local artist.

of the century curiosities and antiques that included a train car, old bicycles, street trolley and an antique car. Sam’s baseball passion was prominently on display with his references and photos, including a picture of Roger Maris. Standing eerily by were life-size historic figures modeled from wax.

Sam Gordon had an astounding capacity to create fun and food, and then roll it out in a unique, expansive, interesting and

Linda

Hanf McIntosh is former publisher-editor and original owner of Around Here Magazine and enjoyed researching and writing this article. Happy Retirement, Linda!

By Debbie

View of the bar with stagecoach, piano and stage.

El Dorado County History Museum

October

Every Sunday

Live Music * 5p - 7p

Smith Flat House - Carol Tuttle & the Jazz Trio

1st, 2nd, 3rd Fridays

Line Dancing * 6p - 9p

Smith Flat House - Instructed by Sara Schindler. $10 at the door. Food/ drinks available for purchase.

October 25

Open Mic Night * 7:30p - 10p Green Room Social Club - No cover, no seating fee, sign-ups begin 4PM, performances begin 5PM. clubgreenroom.com

Trivia Night * 6p - 8p Highway 50 Brewery - Bring your team to compete for prizes and bragging rights. hwy50brewery.com

October 26

Technology Workshop * 1p - 2p Placerville Senior Center - Please join us for our free workshop on how to identify fake (phishing) emails to avoid scams. Questions? Call Andrea at 530.621.6150

Pride Celebration with DJ Zephyr * 6p The Green Room Presents an evening of celebration, entertainment and inclusivity. Tickets $10-$90; clubgreenroom.com

October 27

Live Music * 7p - 10p

Green Room Social Club - Johnny Mojo and FriendsTickets $10 -$45. For info/tickets, clubgreenroom.com

EVENTS

October 28

Homeschool Friday * 5:30p - 7:30p

Wakamatsu Farm - An evening of crepuscular exploration at the farm. $10/participant. Chaperones and non-participating siblings are $3 each. Pre-registration is required. arconservancy.org/events

Halloween Bash * 8p - 12a Smith Flat House - Costume contest, live DJ, dancing, games. All ages welcome. $10 admission. SmithFlatHouse.com

Community Hall O’ween * 6:30p - 10p Coloma Gold Trail Grange - Music by Island of Black & White, food and beverages for purchase. Tickets $10 at Eventbrite.com/e/428801656297

Trunk-or-Treat * 4p - 6p

El Dorado Hills Community CenterDress up in your Halloween finest and come out for candy, games and fun! eldoradohillscsd.org for info

Trunk-or-Treat * 6p - 8p Kovar’s Cameron Park - Wear your costume and bring a pre-carved pumpkin for a chance to win awesome prizes. We will have games for the kids and lots of candy, so make sure to bring your family and friends.

Costume Dance Party * 8p - 12a Green Room Social Club - Get funky with Lantz Lazwell and the Vibe Tribe! High energy dance vibes with costumes highly encouraged! Tickets $15-$90; clubgreenroom.com

October 29

Historic Cemeteries Tour * 10a - 1p

Coloma - Visit the Union Cemetery, sacred Miwok Grinding Rock, Chinese stores in Marshall State Park, St. John’s Church and graveyard, haunted Vineyard House, and explore Coloma’s Gold Rush era cemetery. 1 mile walk, queit, well-behaved 8+ year olds welcome. arconservancy.org/events

Sogetsu Ikebana Principles * 10a - 3p Wakamatsu Farm - A full-day workshop creating “Day of the Dead Pumpkins” decorating sugar skull skeleton faces and making flower wreaths for the skeleton’s crown. For information and cost, visit arconservancy.org/events

Trunk-or-Treat * 5p - 7p

RubiconFit - Put on that costume, decorate that vehicle and bring the kiddos for an evening filled with fun and games.

Live Music - NeonMoon * 7p - 10p Roosters Bar, Mt. Aukum

Main Street Collective * 8p Green Room Social Club - Main Street Collective returns to the Green Room Social Club stage for a Talking Heads tribute. clubgreenroom.com

October 30

Fall Family Festival * 3:30p - 6:30 p

head to an Event

Shade Gardening * 9a - 12p Shade Gardens offer beauty to your landscape, texture, color and flowers to your garden. Join this talented team of Master Gardeners to learn what plants thrive. Rain, high heat, high AQI cancels. Visit mgeldorado.ucanr.edu

Mother Lode Church - Join us for lots of FREE family fun including free horseback rides, a cakewalk, games of skill, prizes, a bounce house. scarecrow-making, crafts, face painting, food and more! MotherLodeChurch.com

Trunk-or-Treat * 5p - 7p

Federated Church Placerville - Come enjoy a trunk-or-treat and Harvest Festival. 1031 Thompson Way 530.622.0273

continued from page 28

Album Release Party * 4p - 6:30p

Green Room Social Club - Harpist

Anne Roos and flutist David Blonski celebrate their album release. Tickets $10-$90; clubgreenroom.com

Trunk-or-Treat * 4p - 6p

Automotive Excellence - There will be popcorn, hot drinks, lots of candy, and a trunk decorating contest! To enter the trunk contest, call Randi at 530.622.2701 or email autoxonline@ gmail.com

Pumpkins on the Bridge * 6p - 8p

Coloma - Free, family-friendly event. Come join in the fun, bring your carved pumpkin(s) and candles to the bridge on October 30th. Come back the next night & replace your candle with a fresh one for Halloweens eve. More information at Coloma.com

October 31

Halloween Spooktacular * 3p - 6p

El Dorado Hills Town CenterTrick or treating and photo contest. Costume Contest at 5p for kids and dogs! edhtowncenter.com/events

Downtown Spooktacular * 4p - 6p

Main St Placerville - Candy, bounce house, costume and pumpkin carving contests, and scavenger hunt are just some of the fun! For more information visit CityofPlacerville.org

Haunted House * 5p - 8p

Pollock Pines Community CenterAll ages haunted house, kid play area, candy and hot dog dinner provided by Pollock Pines Rotary Club.

Time Travel Halloween Party * 6p11p

Green Room Social Club hosts a dance party with rotating DJs and styles featuring EDM to New Wave, House, Trance DnB & More! $5 cover. clubgreenroom.com

EVENTS

November

Every Tuesday

Tech Time * 10a - 11:30a

Placerville Senior Center - This is a free event, so please bring your tech devices and you can sit down with our volunteer for some one on one support. Questions? Call Andrea at 530.621.6150

Bingo Night * 6:15p - 9p

Pollock Pines Community Center

1st, 2nd, 3rd Fridays

Line Dancing * 6p - 9p

Smith Flat House - Instructed by Sara Schindler. $10 at the door. Food/ drinks available for purchase.

Every Friday & Saturday

Night Sky Viewing * 7:30p Community Observatory - free public viewing with docents on hand. Clouds, bad weather cancels. Check website after 3p. For information, communityobservatory.com

Every Saturday & Sunday

Open Garden Day * 9a - 12p

Sherwood Demonstration Gardenhands-on, interactive experience about research-based, sustainable gardening practices specific to the west slope of El Dorado County, appropriate for all ages. Rain, high heat, high AQI cancels. mgeldorado.ucanr.edu

Every Sunday

Live Music * 5p - 7p

Smith Flat House - Carol Tuttle & the Jazz Trio

To

On Stage in El Dorado County

September 23 - October 30

Olde Coloma Theatre presents “Mrs. Waldecott Vs. the Spider Witch” or “Creepies, Crawlies, & Halloween Follies:”

For show and ticket information, visit oldecolomatheatre.com

November 3 - 12

Ponderosa Stage Productions presents “Mamma Mia!”

For show dates and ticket information, visit pondodrama.com

November 3 - 19

Studio 81 (El Dorado High School Drama Dept) presents “Metamorphoses”

For show dates and ticket information, visit studio81arts.com

November 4 - 12

Oak Ridge High School Theatre presents “Rock of Ages: Teen Edition”

For show dates and ticket information, visit ORTAB.org

November 18 - December 18

The Stage at Burke Junction presents “The Stupidest Angel”

For show and ticket information, visit stageatburke.com

November 18 - December 18

Olde Coloma Theatre presents “Once Upon A North Pole Christmas” or “There’s No Business Like Snow Business”

For show and ticket information, visit oldecolomatheatre.com

December 2 - 21

Imagination Theater presents “A Christmas Carol”

For show and ticket information, visit itplacerville.org

*Theatre at the Mine info unavailable at print

continued on page 30

get your event or fundraiser in Around Here, email event information to sara@aroundheremagazine.com

Continued from page 29

1st & 3rd Sundays

Train Rides * 10a, 11a, 12p, 1p

The El Dorado Western Railroad - Round trips from the El Dorado Station, 4650 Oriental St, El Dorado. Rides are on historic gang cars. Tickets first come, first serve. $3$8; Doors open 9:30a for any ride. More info: 530-663-3581 (Sunday) or museum (railroad sponsor, for general information), 530-621-5865.

November 4

Craft Faire * 11a - 6p

Pinebrook Village - Bring your family & friends for some holiday shopping! Free admission, handmade crafts, and chili!

New Beginnings Fall Dinner * 5:30p - 7:30p

Serene Ranch - Fun, food and community. Dinner by Chef John Sanders and Sierra, have a chance to win prizes, hear about the mission of New Beginnings, and listen to testimonials and guest speakers. $20/person, $100/table for 8. newbeginingsgoldcountry.org

November 5

Solar Observations * 10a - 12p

Community Observatory - Open for public viewing with telescopes of the daytime sky. Docents are on hand to answer questions. Free; weather cancellations determined by 5p day prior. Communityobservatory.com

Craft Faire * 9a - 2p

Pinebrook Village - Bring your family & friends for some holiday shopping! Free admission, handmade crafts, and chili!

Before

head to an Event

EVENTS

Nuts! * 9:30a - 11:30a

Placerville, 311 Fair Lane - It’s nut season! Learn how to safely store nuts and make them into tasty treats that can be used as gifts. Hosted by the UCCE Master Food Preservers

Tea at Wakamatsu * 10a - 2p

Wakamatsu Farm- Join us for a day focused on tea. The story of tea is rich and complex. This day will attempt to capture some of that complexity while also giving participants a chance to enjoy a cup. arconservancy.org/events

Create Your Own Bottle * 11a - 1p Gold Dust Vineyard - Get ready to learn the basics of winemaking, blending, and tasting. Everyone gets to roll up their sleeves and produce their very own special bottle of wine!

Shine Bright Casa Gala * 6p - 10p Serrano Country Club - Event will include dinner, CASA youth speaker and advocate recognition, and a live and silent auction. CASAEldorado.org for tickets and information.

November 6 - daylight savings

“True Gold Rediscovered” * 1p - 3p Shakespeare Club - Ladies dressed in period costume will present character vignettes of selected pioneer women of El Dorado County during the Gold Rush Era and beyond. Purchase your $20 ticket early from Margriet 530621-1126 or Joy 916-505-6964 or email joynorris815@gmail.com

November 8

This Month in History * 1p - 2p Placerville Senior Center - Together we will discuss events that occurred during each featured month and share what we may have experienced during those times. Questions? Call Andrea @ 530.621.6238

Bike, Beers, and Beauties * 4p - 8p Nectar @ The Villa - Fun event for fashion, motorcycles, and craft beer.

Take 3 in Concert * 7p

Placerville Seventh Day Adventist Church - Rigorous classical musicians meet rock star charisma performing pop and jazz plus classical interpretation. eldoradocommunityconcerts.com

November 12

Living History * 10a - 4p

Marshall State Park - Hands-on history day features many historical interpreters who come out to demonstrate different aspects of pioneer life during the Gold Rush. $10/parking. Marshallgold.com

Live Music - NeonMoon * 2p - 6p The Barn at Roosters Cellar, Somerset

Out of the Ashes * 4p - 7p

Element 79 Vineyard - Join West Slope Foundation for a night of wine tasting from 15 local Fair Play Wineries and delicious food from Creekside Cork and Brew. All funds raised will go to help the Caldor Fire Survivors and their immediate needs. WestSlopeFoundation.org/events

17th Annual Crab & Chowder Gala * 5:30p - 10p

Placerville Fairgrounds - Silent auction and raffle, all-you-can-eat crab, live music and dancing. Ticket information at ElDoradoCountyFair.org

Active 20-30 Gala Dinner

Masquerade ball with catered dinner, DJ, and raffle prizes. Information at Goldrush1034.org

Send your Events to sara@aroundheremagazine.com

continued on page 31

continued from page 30

November 13

Bridge Tournament * 12p - 5p

Friends of the El Dorado Hills Library host their Annual Bridge Tournament Fundraiser. Includes refreshments and door and cash prizes. All profits go directly to the library. Find information and register at FriendsoftheEDHLibrary.org/ bridge-tournament

November 15

Connecting with Family Class - 10a/6p

Placerville Family History CenterThe holiday season is a great time to share stories and memories. This class will give you some helpful tips on how to successfully collect treasured oral and written stories.

3275 Cedar Ravine Rd * 530.621.1378

November 17

Hangtown 100 Racing * 3p - 10p

Placerville Speedway - USAC

National Midgets, BCRA/CLS

Wingless Lightning Sprints. PlacervilleSpeedway.com

November 18

Monthly Presentation * 1p - 3p

Join us at the Mother Lode Lions Club for 100+ Years of Architecture in El Dorado County, presented by Keith Atwater. Free to members; non-members may attend two presentations/year at no charge. Held at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missourri Flat. The Sierra Renaissance Society of El Dorado County is dedicated to Life Long Learning. For more information, visit srsedc.org

Hangtown 100 Racing * 3p - 10p

Placerville Speedway - USAC

National Midgets, BCRA/CLS

Wingless Lightning Sprints. PlacervilleSpeedway.com

EVENTS

Live Music - NeonMoon - 5p - 8p Highway 50 Brewery, Camino

November 19

Sly Park Trail Run * 8a

Sly Park Event Center - The course follows the trails surrounding Jenkinson Lake. 5k, 10k, 8.5 mile, half marathon, 18 miles, trail marathon, 50k. tctruns.com

Christmas Craft Faire - 10a - 4p

Cameron Park Community CenterShop over 60 local vendors to find the perfect gifts for the Holidays. For more info, visit CameronPark.org

Gratitude for Nature - 10a - 2p Wakamatsu Farm - Experience gratitude for nature while joining in the crafts and activities. Write poetry, create holiday crafts with plants, practice drawing and journaling or join a naturalist led hike. For more information, arconservancy.org

Hands and Hoofs Adventure

* 10a - 3p - Full day of outdoor activity for kids 6-13 and an adult companion. Our nature and equine based experience is a nonriding program that fosters social connections and cultivates life skills. Donations appreciated. Register at handsandhoofs.com or 530.647.2049

Hangtown 100 Racing * 3p - 10p Placerville Speedway - USAC National Midgets, BCRA/CLS Wingless Lightning Sprints. PlacervilleSpeedway.com

Placerville Art Walk * 4p - 8p Main Street - Placerville Art Walk takes place 3rd Saturday of every month. Galleries stay open late and often have special events like music, preforming arts, and artists’ reception. For more info, visit facebook.com/ PlacervilleArtWalk

November 20

Fall Bird Walk - 8a - 12p

Knickerbocker Creek - Tim and Angela Jackson lead this fall walk to see what songbirds, raptors and water birds can be found. Easy-moderate 3-4 mile hike, quiet, well-behaved 8+ year olds welcome.

arconserveancy.org/events

Sogetsu Ikebana Principles - 10a - 1p Wakamatsu Farm - “Arrangements on the Table”. Make a centerpiece that enhances the gathering. For tickets, arconservancy.com/events

November 24

Turkey Dinner * 1p - 4p

Pollock Pines Community Center - Full turkey dinner served at 2p, no host beer & wine bar. Donations welcome.

November 25

Festival of Lights * 4p - 7p Main Street Placerville - Headline bands, special guests & performances, concert sound, lights, street vendors, food and of course, the Tree Lighting (with a special surprise).

November 29

FamilySearch/Ancestry.com * 10a/6p Placerville Family History CenterLearn to link to your relatives and discover new facts and relatives. 3275 Cedar Ravine Rd * 530.621.1378

November 30

Poetry Readings * 5:30p - 8p

Cameron Park Library - El Dorado County Poet Laureate, Lara Gularte, will be joined by local poets, Poetry Out Loud winners, and special guests for free poetry readings.

continued on page 34

Make Today A Good Day In

The Spirit

by Glenn Mollette

Life is one day at a time. You don’t have tomorrow. You hope for tomorrow, but it’s not guaranteed. We plan for tomorrow. We save for tomorrow and look forward to tomorrow.

But today is what we have. If today is the last day of your life, how is it going? If you knew

for sure, how would you want to spend your last precious 24 hours? You wouldn’t be planning next year’s vacation. No, you would want to get in all that you could possibly do.

Only you know for sure how you would want to spend your day, and everyone is different. Maybe you would spend your day with loved ones or maybe you would want to be strolling in the mountains or by the oceanside. Maybe you would want to spend your day eating ice cream, hamburgers and pizza. If it’s your last day, then why not?

Worship Services Around Here

Bayside Church of Placerville

Pastor Al Soto

Worship: Sun 10am; Youth: Thurs 6pm 4602 Misourri Flat Rd, Placerville info@baysideplacerville.com · baysideplacerville.com 530-626-7288

Bible Baptist Church

Pastor John Labins, conservative, evangelistic, independent Sun: 10am classes for all ages; 11am & 6pm Preaching; Wed: Bible Study & Prayer 6pm, Bible Club for kids

5391 Mother Lode Dr, Placerville 530-621-0482; www.BetterThanGold.org

Camino Seventh-day Adventist Church

Pastor: Avi Mendoza - Call 1st for updated info. Sat. study session 10:00am; worship 11:00am 3520 Carson Rd, Camino 530-644-2236 • elarsen.office@gmail.com www.caminoSDA.org

Church of Christ • Rescue

Phil Rembleski • Sunday worship only during pandemic!

Worship: Sun 10:30am & 5:30pm; 9:30am Sunday

School classes all ages; Bible class Wednesdays 7pm

4200 Green Valley Rd, Rescue 530-677-4502 • rescuechurchofchrist.org

Church of Our Savior

Rev. Deborah Sabino

Worship: Sun 8am & 10:30am

2979 Coloma St, Placerville 530-622-2441 • oursaviouroffice@gmail.com oursaviourplacerville.org

Church of the Nazarene

Reverend Dan Hopkins Worship: Sun 10:30am

6040 Mother Lode Dr, Placerville plaznaz@yahoo.com • www.plaznaz.com 530-622-3217

Discovery Hills Evangelical Free Church

Pastor Christopher Feigles

Worship: Sundays 9am, 10:30, 10:15 online 4270 Shingle Springs Dr., Shingle Springs www.discoveryhills.org • zoe@discoveryhills.org 530-677-1875

St. Patrick Catholic Church

Fr. Hernando Gomez Amaya

English Mass: Sat. 4pm; Sun. 8am, 10am; M-F 8:30am; Spanish Mass: Sun. 12:30pm & Wed. 6:30pm; 3109 Sacramento St., Placerville 530-622-0373

St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church

Pastor Trudy Franzen

Pastor George Turnboo

El Dorado Community ChurchCongregational

Sunday Worship 11:00 am

4701 Church St, El Dorado, racecar56g@yahoo.com, eldoradocommunitychurch.com, 530-622-8868

Federated Church

Pastor Rev. Dr. Laura Barnes

Worship: Sun 10:00am.

1031 Thompson Wy, Placerville www.EldoradoFederatedChurch.org office@eldoradoFederatedChurch.org, 530-622-0273

Freedom Church

Pastor Scott & Pastor Colleen Williams

Worship: Sun 9 & 10:30am. Youth: Tuesdays 6pm.

Men’s Bible Study: Fri 8am.

4414 Commodity Wy, Cameron Park, 530-677-7212 www.freedomchurchcp.org / office@freedomchurchcp.org

Holy Trinity Catholic Parish

Fr. Larry Beck Mass: Sat. Vigil Mass 5:30pm; Sun. Mass 7:30am, 9am, 11am Weekdays, M-F 8:15am. 3111 Tierra de Dios Dr., El Dorado Hills. holytrinity@holytrinity.parish.org • 530-677-3234 www.holytrinityparish.org

Sentinel Ministries, Inc.

Pastor Veronica Parker

Worship 1st Sunday only 1pm, Parish Hall at St.Stephen’s Lutheran Church 1001 Olson Ln, El Dorado Hills. 916-968-7844

Sun. Worship: Zoom Service 8:30; In-Person is 9:30am 1001 Olson Lane (at EDH Blvd), El Dorado Hills 916-933-1441 • st-steph@sslcedh.org, www.sslcedh.org

Churches, To list in Around Here Magazine, call 530-303-8980 or email information below to sara@aroundheremagazine.com. Cost is $100/year for 4 issues.

I like ice cream, hamburgers and pizza but my doctor doesn’t recommend them as a daily diet because of the hopes of tomorrow. There are ways that we can shorten our days and too much of what we enjoy is not always very good for us.

Since life is one day at a time, we can’t go back and repeat yesterday. All the good you did is in the past. All the mistakes you made are in the past. You can spend the rest of your life wishing you could repeat high school, college or an old relationship. Actually, you are better off if you don’t sit around and think about it all the time. It’s good to remember the good memories of family, friends, life’s successes and joys but they are in the past. This often makes us sad because we know we can’t relive some of those great moments of life. It’s best to give thanks for them and move forward.

Today is a good day to make some more memories – good ones. Living your life today regardless of what you are doing is the life you have. Make the best of it by enjoying your life. Do what you enjoy. Be good to yourself. Don’t beat up on yourself. Don’t live your life fighting with others. Do your work. Find joy in your work or move on to a work that you do enjoy. Find ways to reduce stress and to be happy.

Keep in mind that you can’t make everyone else happy and don’t take on everyone else’s problems. You probably have enough of your own.

Dr. Glenn Mollette is the author of 13 books including Uncommon Sense and Minister’s Guidebook, insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states. Learn more at glennmollette.com

CHANGING BELIEF SYSTEMS

Be patient. All good things take time if they are worthwhile.

Finally, just in case you do live a bunch more years, live today in such a way, that you can look back to today and remember it as a good day.

Our beliefs are a very powerful force on our behavior. It can shape affect or even determine our degree of intelligence, health, relationships, creativity, as well as our degree of happiness and personal success. Many of our beliefs were installed in us as children by parents, teachers, social upbringing, and the media before we were aware of their impact or able to make a choice about them. We now know it is possible to restructure, unlearn or change old beliefs that may be limiting us and imprint new ones that can expand our potential beyond what we currently imagine using the tool of Medical Hypnoanalysis.

“Our Thoughts Determine Our Lives” Call Now For Free 15-Minute Consultation

JUST ONE OF THE MANY REASONS PEOPLE CONSULT A BOARD-CERTIFIED MEDICAL HYPNOANALYST

“Do what you can, with what you’ve got, where you are.”

Squire Bill Widener

(later quoted by Theodore Roosevelt)

“Live today... (so) that you can look back at today and remember it as a good day“

December

Every Tuesday

Tech Time * 10a - 11:30a

Placerville Senior Center - This is a free event, so please bring your tech devices and you can sit down with our volunteer for some one on one support. Questions? Call Andrea at 530.621.6150

Bingo Night * 6:15p - 9p Pollock Pines Community Center

1st, 2nd, 3rd Fridays

Line Dancing * 6p - 9p Smith Flat House - Instructed by Sara Schindler. $10 at the door. Food/ drinks available for purchase.

Every Friday & Saturday

Night Sky Viewing * 7:30p Community Observatory - free public viewing with docents on hand. Clouds, bad weather cancels. Check website after 3p and for late December dates. For information, communityobservatory.com

Every Saturday & Sunday (first 3 weekends of December)

Open Garden Day * 9a - 12p Sherwood Demonstration Gardenhands-on, interactive experience about research-based, sustainable gardening practices specific to the west slope of El Dorado County, appropriate for all ages. Rain, high heat, high AQI cancels. mgeldorado.ucanr.edu

Every Sunday

Live Music * 5p - 7p

Smith Flat House - Carol Tuttle & the Jazz Trio

December 1

Coloma Lotus Christmas Tree

Lighting * 6p

Please join us on the bridge to light up the Christmas Tree at 6pm.

December 2

Cookies With Santa * 4p - 6p

El Dorado Hills Community Center$10/participant, under 2 free. Register at Eldoradohillscsd.org

December 3

Breakfast With Santa * 8a or 10a El Dorado Hills Community Center - Spend a 75 minute breakfast with Santa! $10/participant, under 2 years free. Register at Eldoradohillscsd.org

Make & Take Workshop * 8:30a - 12p Placerville Fairgrounds - Make your own homemade turkey stock that can be used in soups and stews and many other delicious meals. Need your own pressure canner and pot of homemade stock (recipe provided). Fee: $25 Preregistration required by Thursday, 12/1

Winter Rummage Sale * 9a - 4p Placerville Shakespeare Club - special Winter Rummage Sale featuring warm winter clothing such as coats, jackets, sweaters. Festive holiday decorations will be offered as well as many under the tree gifts, jewelry, toys, puzzles and games. Placerville-Shakespeare.com

Solar Observations * 10a - 12p

Community Observatory - Open for public viewing with telescopes of the daytime sky. Docents are on hand to answer questions. Free; weather cancellations determined by 5p day prior. Communityobservatory.com

Live Music * 4p - 7p

Highway 50 Brewery - Walkin the Dawg Band

December 4

Christmas Parade * 1p - 3p

Main Street Placerville - Don’t miss this year’s Parade, featuring floats, decorated vehicles, marching band, and dancers. Santa and all his helpers will be there to welcome you and your family.

2nd Annual Jingle Mingle * 1p - 5p

Cameron Park Community Center Enjoy complimentary lite bites, wine and beer tasting, raffle, bid on decorated Christmas trees (online auction), shop our Christmas boutique and local artisans’. Tickets: $50 Adult ($60 at the door), $10 Children (12 and under). Tickets available online October 26th. Please visit AssistanceLeague.org/sierra-foothills

December 10

ECV Toy Collection * 9a - 5p

Pine Lodge - Bring your new, unopened toy to donate for a child in our community.

Holiday Bazaar * 10a - 4p

Coloma Gold Trail Grange - Come find that perfect one of a kind Christmas gift at the Gold Trail Grange annual Holiday Bazaar. Vendor space available for the bazaar. Contact Teal at sierrarizing@yahoo.com

Christmas in Coloma * 10a - 4p

Marshall State Park - Join us for oldfashioned Christmas fun including warming fires, music, gift vendors, crafts, wreath making, hot food and beverages, Santa and more! And don’t miss the holiday house tour. $10/ parking, $5/house tour.

Marshallgold.com for info

continued from page 34

Help for the Holidays * 1p - 5p

Plymouth Community ChurchToys, gifts, door prizes, stockings for kids and visit with Santa. For more information or to donate, email info@helpfortheholidays.store

December 11

EnterTRAINment Event * 9a - 2p

El Dorado Western Railroad Depot

Join us at the Depot and Community Hall for train rides, face painting, caroling, pictures with Santa, crafts and much more!

facebook.com/

ElDoradoWesternRailroad

Christmas in Coloma * 10a - 4p

Marshall State Park - Join us for oldfashioned Christmas fun including warming fires, music, gift vendors, crafts, wreath making, hot food and beverages, Santa and more! And don’t miss the holiday house tour. $10/ parking, $5/house tour. Marshallgold. com for info

Holiday Bazaar * 10a - 4p

Coloma Gold Trail Grange - Come find that perfect one of a kind Christmas gift at the Gold Trail Grange annual Holiday Bazaar. Vendor space available for the bazaar. Contact Teal at sierrarizing@yahoo.com

Santa Visit * 1p - 5p

Pollock Pines Community Center - full dinner served at 2p, kid toy giveaway, Santa arrives at 3:30p to hear what you want for Christmas!

December 13

This Month in History * 1p - 2p

Placerville Senior Center - Together we will discuss events that occurred during each featured month and share what we may have experienced during those times. Questions? Call Andrea @ 530.621.6238

EVENTS

Using Ancestry.com * 10a/6p

Placerville Family History CenterLearn more about this website and what it has to offer, basic ancestry.com trees, research, and collections. 3275 Cedar Ravine Rd * 530.621.1378

December 17

Live Music * 4p - 7p Highway 50 Brewery - O’Connell Street Band

Placerville Art Walk * 4p - 8p Main Street - Placerville Art Walk takes place 3rd Saturday of every month. Galleries stay open late and often have special events like music, preforming arts, and artists’ reception. For more info, visit facebook.com/ PlacervilleArtWalk

December 18

Train Rides * 10a, 11a, 12p, 1p The El Dorado Western Railroad

- Round trips from the El Dorado Station, 4650 Oriental St, El Dorado. Rides are on historic gang cars. Tickets first come, first serve. $3$8; Doors open 9:30a for any ride. More info: 530-663-3581 (Sunday) or museum (railroad sponsor, for general information), 530-621-5865.

December 24

Placerville Holiday Jingle & Mingle * 9a - Mosquito Rd Trailhead

The path is surrounded with beautiful oak trees, rolling hills, and incredible views. The race is held rain or shine. Strollers are allowed in the 5K, 10K, and 15K. tctruns.com

Before you head to an Event

Things To Do this Holiday Season

☑ Move your body for fun 3x a week. I highly recommend dance parties in the kitchen. They definitely count.

☑ Give Back. Donate to a local charity or volunteer your time. (For ideas, follow us online) Honestly, sometimes just a smile, manners, or a helping hand will go a long way.

☑ Practice gratitude. It can be so easy to focus on what needs to be done, what we need to buy, and where we need to be. Make sure you’re taking time to acknowledge and appreciate everything you have (and what’s going right!).

☑ Moderation So.Many.Good. Things! Enjoy it! But, try to do so in moderation. Check in with the first and last things on this list, too.

☑ Hydrate! You know why.

☑ Maintain boundaries so you don’t over-commit. “You can’t pour from any empty cup.”

☑ Stick to a bedtime. It will help your immune system stay strong and let your body reset each night.

☑ Be Kind To Yourself. You may not get it all done. It may not look perfect. You may go a little overboard (treats, anyone?) You might even forget to do a few things. IT’S OK! Take a deep breath, smile, and remember to make today a good day. You’re here, and you’re doing great.

Spanish Rice

5 min prep

25 min cook time

* 1 1/2 c. long grain rice

* 2 1/2 c. chicken broth

* 1 c. tomotao sauce

* 2 tbsn vegetable oil

* 1/4 c. garlic, onion seasonings

1. Heat oil in medium saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add seasonings and rice. Stir for 5 minutes until rice becomes golden brown.

3. Slowly add broth and tomato sauce into rice.

4. Stir and bring to boil. Once it begins to boil, turn heat to low and cover.

5. Let simmer for 20 minutes and fluff with fork.

Potluck Mac & Cheese

25 min prep

2 hr cook

16 servings

* 3 c. uncooked elbow macaroni

* 1 package (16 oz) Velveeta, cubed

* 2 c. shredded Mexican cheese blend

* 2 c. shredded white cheddar cheese

* 13/4 c. whole milk

* 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

* 3/4 c. butter, melted

* 3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1. Cook macaroni according to package directions for al dente; drain. Transfer to a greased 5-qt. slow cooker. Stir in remaining ingredients.

2. Cook, covered, on low 2 to 2-1/2 hours or until a thermometer reads at least 160°, stirring once.

Around the tAble

Between practices, school projects, busy weeks and the impending chaos of the holiday season, these recipes are intended to streamline meals and simplify the season. Some can be prepped and shared or saved for a busy day. Others can be pulled together quickly. We’ve all been there. Only 45 minutes to feed the family between extracurriculars. Realizing the work party is tonight and you said you’d bring a side or dessert. Extended family is in town and ordering takeout again just isn’t an option. These, my friend, are for you.

Holly’s Creamy Garlic Chicken

25 min cook time 4 servings

* 2 tsp oil

* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Did You Know?

The term potluck originates from the 16th century and refers to feeding an unexpected guest the “luck of the pot,” or whatever was already being prepared.

The practice gained popularity in the US during the Great Depression, when church organizations would host the social events to share resources.

National Potluck Day is coming soon: Friday, January 20, 2023!

Hint: Place cooling racks over saran-wrapped or foil-covered leftovers. Boom. Extra “shelves!”

* 1/4 c. mayonnaise type salad dressing

* 2 c. frozen stir-fry vegetables

* 1tbsn soy sauce

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

* 3 c. cooked rice

1. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add chicken, cook for 6 minutes, turning once.

3. Stir in remaining ingredients except rice.

4. Cover and cook 7 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.

5. Serve over hot rice.

Tip: Flatten the chicken between 2 pieces of wax paper before cooking.. it will cook up quickly and evenly.

Recipes found online at: AllRecipes.com, Livewellbakeoften.com, Sugarandcharm.com

Gooseberry Patch’s “Ready, Set, Eat!” cookbook

“Eggs are fantastic for a fitness diet. If you don’t like the taste, just add cocoa, flour, sugar, butter, baking powder and cook at 350 for 30 minutes.”

Sausage Tortilla Roll-Ups

20-min prep

50-min cook time

4-6 servings

* 1 1/2 lbs Italian ground pork sausage, browned and drained

* 2 c. cottage cheese

* 2 tbsn all-purpose flour

* 1/4 tsp garlic powder

* 3 c. spaghetti sauce

* 1 tsp dried basil

* 1 tsp dried oregano

* 10 10-inch flour tortillas

* 1 1/2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese

1. Stir together sausage, cottage cheese and flour; set aside.

2. Stir together sauce and seasonings.

3. Pour 1/2 cup sauce mixture into sausage mixture.

4. Spoon 1/3 cup sausage mixture onto center of tortillas.

5. Roll up and place seam-side down in a lightly grease 13”x9” baking pan.

6. Pour remaining sauce mixture over tortillas.

7. Cover with aluminum foil.

8. Bake, covered, at 375° for 45-50 minutes, until bubbly.

9. Uncover, speinkle with cheese and return to oven for 3-5 minutes.

If preparing a second meal for later, you can stop after step 7 and place in freezer. Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then follow baking instructions above, adding cheese as directed.

Around the tAble Butterbeer

5 min prep

* 8-11 oz cream soda

* 2 tbsn butterscotch sundae syrup

* 1 tsp butter extract

* 1 1/2 oz butterscotch schnapps (optional)

* 1 oz vanilla vodka (optional)

1. Chill glass(es) in fridge prior to using.

2. Rim the inside of the glass with butterscotch syrup until it drips down the insides.

3. Pour cream soda into glass.

4. Add in butter extract.

5. Add schnapps and vodka if desired.

6. Stir and enjoy!

Easy Fudge Recipe

15 min prep

3 hr chill

* 3 c semi-sweet chocolate chips

* 1 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk

* 2 tbsn butter

* 1 c chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

1. Line an 8-in baking dish with pachment paper or aluminim foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. Add chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk and butter to a large saucepan and place over medium heat.

3. Stir continuously until the chocolate chps are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

4. Remove from the heat and scoop the mixture into the the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.

5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hrs or until fully chilled and fudge is firm.

6. Remove from dish using overhang of parchment paper or aluminim foil.

7. Cut and enjoy!

For

Bliss Bites

20 min prep

15 min cook

9 servings

* 6 tbsn refined coconut oil, divided

* 1/4 c. plus 2 tbsn peanut butter, divided

* 1/4 c. plus 1 tbsn Grade A dark maple syrup, divided

* 1/4 c. dutch process (or dark) cocoa powder

* 1 tsp vanilla extract

* 1 pinch kosher salt

* 1 c. rolled oats

1. Place 9 cupcake liners into a muffin tin (or 18 liners in a mini-muffin tin).

2. In small saucepan over low heat, melt 5 tbsn coconut oil and stir together 2 tbsn peanut butter, 1/4 c maple syrup, 1/4 c cocoa powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 pinch kosher salt.

3. When fully combined, remove from heat and stir in 1 c rolled oats.

4. Spoon into cupcake liners. Refrigerate while making the peanut butter topping.

5. In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together 1/4 c peanut butter, 1 tbsn maple syrup, and 1 tbsn coconut oil.

6. Spoon the warm peanut butter mixture over the chocolate oat mixture.

7. Freeze for 15 to 20 minutes until set, or refrigerate until serving.

8. Store refrigerated.

Butterbeer topping, whip 1 c. heavy cream until it forms stiff peak. Add 1/2 c. butterscotch syrup and 1/4 c. powdered sugar. Then whip it. Whip it real good.

Local Groups & Organizations

El Dorado County Widowed Persons Club - Support group for widowed men and women. General meetings 4th Friday of the month at Cold Springs Country Club at 11:30a. Breakfasts are Tuesday mornings, 8:30a, at Placerville Denny’s and Wednesdays at 8:30a, held at Diamond Springs Hotel and Cameron Park Denny’s respectively. To register, call Glenda (530.295.8374) or Nancy (530.919.8276)

Assistance League of the Sierra Foothills - Chapter Meetings (public welcome) are held every fourth Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Faith Episcopal Church in Cameron Park. Assistanceleague.org/sierra-foothills/ for more information!

American River ConservancyWhether it’s trail building, leading a hike, data entry, oak seedling watering, baking cookies for trail workers, working an information booth, preparing mailings, or helping the Conservancy in other ways, we appreciate each and every volunteer. arconservancy.com/join-us

El Dorado County History Museum - There are three main areas of need for volunteers: research room, museum docent, El Dorado Western Railroad. For more information, fill out the volunteer interest form online at museum. edcgov.us/volunteers.

Gold Country WoodworkingMeetings second Tuesday of every month at 7p at Park Community Church, 3901 Wild Chaparral Dr, Shingle Springs.

Send AHM info About your locAl group or non-profit! sara@aroundheremagazine com

Name: ____________________________

Brief Description: ___________________

Groaners from Next door

I’m afraid for the calendar. Its days are numbered!

Meeting Time(s) & Location: __________

Website: __________________________

Contact Information: ________________

Overheard at the disc golf course: “I was wondering why the frisbee kept getting bigger and bigger, and then it hit me..”

The rotation of the Earth really makes my day.

CRYPTO-QUOTE

A cryptogram is a short quote that has been encrypted by taking each letter in the quote and substituting it with another letter. Your challenge is to decrypt it back using your liguistic skills.

SmOg

Monday

Health

Program Ages Sign Up

Medicare Advant age 65+ Oct.15– Dec .7

Covered California 0-64 Nov.1– Jan. 31

We’ve helped El Dorado County residents with health, life and disability insurance since 2004 The insurance companies pay us, so there’s no cost to you for our advice and assist ance Call us today!

License #0E44887

Rober t Lenoil Insurance Agency (530) 344-9400

990 Marshall Way Ste A , Placerville

Realtor®