Here's to Kids and Pets!
As we enter the hottest days of summer, it's hard to believe that students, both young and old, will soon be starting a new school year. During these final, sun-drenched days of summer vacation, they have a unique opportunity to learn and explore in different ways than their structured school year. Therefore, it seems fitting for August’s issue to be devoted to the "kiddos" in our lives—whether they are children, grandchildren, or even fur babies. After all, kids and pets share some common factors: they like to have fun and need our unconditional love and attention. Being a busy mom, I know how important it is to make that time for your kids and how hard that balancing act can be. I also know how important our family pets have been through the years providing a special kind of companionship that can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets often become a child's first best friend, teaching them about loyalty and compassion. Whether that special friend has fur, feathers, scales, or gills, taking care of something so vulnerable and reliant on you for survival shapes a person into a more empathetic, responsible, and caring individual.
In this issue, inspired by the mini loved ones in our lives, we feature stories from people who embody kids and pets in remarkable ways. You'll find a piece dedicated to our beloved dog companions, exploring their journey from playful puppies to adults with a local dog training facility that knows a thing or two about raising a happy, healthy pet. We also have an insightful conversation with a well-known EDH daycare owner, who shares her ideology that education and socialization are best achieved in an environment filled with love and fun. Additionally, we highlight a Somerset winery whose owner smartly combines his admiration for wine, animals, and nature, creating a must-visit local paradise worth the short drive. Finally, we embark on an adventure to a charming Caribbean island that promises pure island bliss, ensuring an unforgettable vacation for the entire family.
May this month’s issue inspire you to pour a little extra love into the kids and animals around you. Their presence undoubtedly brings boundless enrichment and joy to our hearts and lives.
KRISTY MURDOCH, PUBLISHER @ELDORADOHILLSCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Kristy Murdoch | kristy.murdoch@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Todd Murdoch | todd.murdoch@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kristal Johnson | kristal.johnson@citylifestyle.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Scott Hallmeyer | scott@thecreativhaus.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Cadence Murdoch
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Krista Minard and Courtney Stockton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Charlene Taylor and Kimberlee Brooke & Co.
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Fun in the sun learning to swim at CSD pool. 2: Free concert in the park featuring food, music, and dancing. 3: Junior lifeguard recruits hit the CSD pool to train. 4: Golden History Days in Placerville, CA 5: EDH Library hosts an animal show from Wild Things Wildlife Program. 6: Truck 85 and Engine 84 train lifeguards at the EDH Community Services District pool. 7: EDH First Summer Concert at the Community Park.
business monthly
Welcome EDH Motors to Town Center!
Visit EDH residents and new business owners David and Adam at EDH Motors' stunning showroom located at 4364 Town Center Blvd, Ste 120. With their combined expertise, they have crafted a boutique car buying and selling experience that revolutionizes the industry, alleviating the time and stress for you. Whether you're seeking a new or used, classic or exotic vehicle, they handle all the legwork so you don't have to. For appointment inquiries, visit edhmotors.com
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Miraflores Winery Invites You To Two New Weekend Lunch Pairings
Black Cat Catering Company's Chef William "Bud" Walters serves his elevated menu on August 10th and 11th. Chef and restaurant owner Simona Salvatori of Amore Mio in downtown Placerville serves dishes created with Italian tradition on August 24th and 25th. All 4-course lunches are exquisitely paired with Miraflores wine chosen by their on-site Sommelier and held outdoors under the shaded covered patio, overlooking Miraflores estate vineyards. For reservations, call (530) 647-8505 or email info@mirafloreswinery.com.
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Mikuni Restaurant & Sushi Bar Coming Soon To Town Center
Taro Arai, owner of Mikuni Restaurant Group Inc., announced his plans to open one of his popular sushi restaurants right here in El Dorado Hills Town Center. An official date has yet to be set, but the restaurant, taking over the space once occupied by Aji Japanese Bistro, is slated to open this winter. Details to follow!
THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF NATURE, WINE, FURRY FRIENDS, AND HOSPITALITY.
The Journey to Saluti Cellars
ARTICLE BY KRISTY MURDOCH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIMBERLEE BROOKE & CO
“
“I became fixated on developing that paradise I had in my mind all those years.”
Somerset, California, is a small, charming community situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills within El Dorado County. Known for its scenic beauty, Somerset boasts rolling hills and bountiful vineyards within a tranquil rural atmosphere. The area is part of the renowned Fair Play AVA (American Viticultural Area), making it a notable destination for wine enthusiasts seeking boutique wineries in a natural setting. Beyond its viticultural appeal, Somerset stands apart from other wine communities due to its outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and exploring the nearby El Dorado National Forest. With its natural beauty, agricultural richness, and closeknit community, Somerset provides a picturesque and peaceful local retreat conveniently close to home.
At the heart of this flourishing wine country, nestled in a secluded valley amongst towering lines, lush vineyards, and beautifully landscaped grounds stands Saluti Cellars. Saluti, meaning “friendly greetings” in Italian, perfectly reflects how owner Randy Rossi has transformed his 300-acre tree-studded property into the peaceful wine paradise that stands today, ensuring all who visit feel welcome.
Randy’s journey to Saluti is far from ordinary. Throughout his demanding career in law enforcement and counterterrorism at the state and federal levels, he experienced some of the best and worst of humanity, leading an exciting yet stressful lifestyle working around the world. “To cope, I would go to a place in my mind, a hidden beautiful sanctuary with animals, ponds, and gorgeous grounds to walk upon. And of course, with fine wine.”
Years later, he vacationed in a lovely bed-and-breakfast in Somerset and instantly fell in love with the area and knew that was where he belonged. With a Master’s in business with undergraduate work involving agricultural economics and viticulture, it was a natural transition to become a vintner. “I became fixated on developing that paradise I had in my mind for all those years,” shares Randy.
Over the next 2 decades, Randy transformed his property into his dream, building the vineyards, wine caves, housing, barns, and equestrian center from the ground up. “There was virtually nothing on the property when I bought it. Roads had to be established and wells had to be drilled," says Randy, sharing he did most of the work himself, an impressive feat!
Traveling down the paved road to his estate, you can appreciate the time and effort put into this amazing place, as you are instantly welcomed by the soothing sounds of fountained water within a vast lily-padstudded pond. On our first visit, my husband and I were greeted by Norman, Saluti’s Clydesdale horse, grazing on the green grasses nearby. He often can be found meandering freely through the vineyard. Norman isn’t the only furry friend you’ll encounter here. You can also visit the adorable little alpacas living beside the resident Saluti chickens. Or perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of the Scottish Highland cow herd roaming carelessly through the forest. With their long horns, shaggy coats, and natural sweet disposition, they are not to be missed.
For the more intrepid visitors, you can book a 1 or 2-hour trail ride at Saluti Horse Adventures with head honchos and experienced owners David and Brenda Ingram. With their herd of 30 horses, you’ll discover how to care for your horse with grooming skills and handling tips to keep your horse happy, healthy, and attentive during your trek. Whether journeying along the shaded, forested trails, making your way through the vineyards, or splashing through the Cosumnes River running through the property on their famous “River Ride,” it’ll surely be a day to remember.
The happiness of the Saluti wildlife residents is evident as Randy speaks about his love and respect for nature, a sentiment that's palpable in his tasting room,
adorned with Zeus, their Great Dane wine mascot, contentedly sleeping in the middle. As he pours one of the smoothest Chardonnays I've ever tasted, it becomes clear that his award-winning wines are crafted with the same meticulous care he applies to every aspect of Saluti, from landscaping to animal care. Each sip of Barbera, Zinfandel, and Malbec was impressive, though unsurprising, given his dedication to excellence in every detail of his winery. “I am very hands-on in all aspects of the grape growing and winemaking process. We are environmentally conscious, using solar for our energy demand, and organic sprays in our vineyards to reduce fire fuel suppression. We have been awarded for our earth-friendly farming techniques,” he shares.
I found myself reluctant to leave at the end of the day, overwhelmed by the comfort and tranquility of Saluti. Fortunately, they have two unique and elegant overnight suites for guests, each with a full bath, gas fireplace, and King bed. The Zinfanden Suite includes a full kitchen, living and dining area, and a spacious deck overlooking the beautiful grounds, perfect for your morning cup of coffee or evening glass of wine. Accommodations include complimentary wine and access to the 4-person spa off the deck, a pool/spa combo tucked in the vineyards, and an exercise room. Guests can also enjoy bocce ball and a horseshoe pit for leisurely gaming. On Saturdays and Sundays when the vineyard is open to the public, they offer gourmet wood-fired pizza on the patio. Wine club members have access to Saluti during the week as well.
Also an event destination, they offer unique venue options for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and other special celebrations. The patio with its rose-laced arbor gazing upon the tranquil pond is the perfect spot to say “I do!” Their large timber pavilion can host a perfectly “rustic-chic” affair, lit by Western-style chandeliers and
towered by an authentic antique windmill adorned with a lighted heart. For a more intimate and romantic ambiance, you can choose a candlelit dinner in the expansive wine cave.
Saluti now even offers affordable elopement and micro-wedding packages for smaller weddings. Packages are available starting at $2500 and include a choice of the 3 venues, an officiant, a wedding coordinator, a catered dinner, and cake. Call 530-957-2528 or visit saluticellars.com for more information regarding all event packages.
Randy's journey to creating Saluti is truly remarkable, and the scenic drive to witness his beautiful vision come to life is well worth it. “We aim to make this winery a destination, not just a place to come for a tasting . To have our visitors walk away with a little better appreciation for elegant country life. We enjoy providing our guests with an exceptional experience by sharing our love of good wine, beautiful vistas, and our loving resident 'pets.' We make our property yours to explore with hiking/walking trails throughout. Our goal is to ensure you have many happy returns.” And that Randy does in spades.
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Our goal is to ensure you have many happy returns.
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KRISTA
AT THE GIFT OF KIDS DAYCARE AND PRESCHOOL, CHILDREN AND TEACHERS ARE LEARNING TOGETHER.
LOVE, RESPECT, EDUCATION
ARTICLE BY
MINARD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLENE TAYLOR
Before Jennifer Tommasini ventured into the childcare business 25 years ago, she already had a list of ambitious goals. While working long hours as a restaurant manager, she wanted to ensure her son had exceptional daycare. After trying five different centers and finding none satisfactory, she realized she could create something better. Pregnant with her second child, she made a bold career switch.
love go hand in hand,” she emphasizes, reflecting The Gift of Kids’ core philosophy. “Love and respect!”
The center’s bright, cheerful environment includes classrooms designed to feel homey and warm. Age-appropriate displays and toys foster learning through play and movement for the youngest children, with a more structured curriculum in phonics, counting, reading, and writing as the kids approach kin-
“LEARNING IS WRAPPED AROUND
FUN, WITH
PLENTY OF UNSTRUCTURED PLAYTIME.”
First, she did her research. “I came up with a business plan for high-quality care,” she says. She then quit her job in the restaurant industry and became licensed as an in-home daycare provider. Her business flourished. Today, The Gift of Kids Daycare and Preschool occupies a spacious, state-of-the-art facility on Golden Foothill Parkway in El Dorado Hills. The company employs 35 dedicated teachers—CPR and firstaid-trained professionals who have been educated in childcare and genuinely love children. It serves families with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, pre-kindergartners, and kindergarteners. Around 200 children regularly attend the center’s vibrant half-day and full-day programs.
Throughout the years, Tommasini’s passionate approach to early childhood education has endured. “Learning and
dergarten age. Yoga, music, and Spanish language are included in the center’s curriculum, and extras such as “soccer shots” and hip-hop dance are available. An acre of outdoor land provides ample space for play, gardening, and other exciting activities.
“We want children to continue a journey through life after preschool with knowledge, kindness, and respect,” says Tommasini, who keeps up with the latest studies on the best methods in childhood education. The center incorporates the FasTracKids and The Creative Curriculum programs into the mix and includes weekly focuses (letters, colors, animals, sight words, and Spanish words) and subjects such as self, the five senses, numbers, shapes, modes of transportation, countries, and more.
For the children, learning is intertwined with fun, offering plenty of unstructured playtime and opportunities to make friends and socialize. For Tommasini and her staff, it’s serious business. To ensure the safety and security of the children, she says, she’s committed to following best practices in every area. “We are regulated by the State Department of Social Services and take that very seriously,” she says. They hold professional development training sessions and role-play scenarios to keep teachers well-prepared.
Additionally, The Gift of Kids partners with Quality Counts, an El Dorado County program that provides resources to child educators for goal setting, documentation, and even stipends and scholarships for teachers. “It’s important that teachers are supported and have an opportunity to also learn and grow in the childcare field,” says Tommasini. This helps prevent excessive turnover.
The Gift of Kids maintains low childto-teacher ratios. Not only does it take many hands—and minds—to keep up with kids, but bonding between teachers and children is crucial. The center has a “continuity of care” program, where some students and teachers move to the next level of learning together. For example, Tommasini’s daughter Brittney Kelly, who graduated with her degree in child development from Chico State in 2022, has been teaching 3-yearolds at The Gift of Kids and will teach Pre-K this coming fall.
Jenn Tommasini with daughter Brittney Kelly
“BONDING BETWEEN TEACHERS AND CHILDREN IS CRUCIAL.”
Education comes into play not just for the children at The Gift of Kids, but for the teachers—and Tommasini herself, who graduated from Walden University with a degree in early elementary education at age 45. “My daughter and I went to college at the same time,” she says. “It’s never too late!”
Some of the center’s preschool teachers participate in an apprenticeship program (a partnership between The Gift of Kids, Delta College, and El Dorado County Office of Education) that enables them to earn early childhood education (ECE) credits for free. These students have on-site mentors at The Gift of Kids—where they’re engaged in hands-on training—and support staff at the office of education. It’s one of the many ways the center provides an enriching environment for children and teachers—all of whom are learning together.
Jennifer Tommasini’s journey from restaurant manager to childcare provider is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. The Gift of Kids Daycare and Preschool stands as a shining example of how one person's vision can positively impact a community, fostering growth, love, and lifelong learning.
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
FOLLOW
TRAINED UP
DOG TRAINER KERRY MCBRIDE OF EL DORADO PET CLUB CONNECTS PEOPLE AND PUPS
“Training can help the bond with everyone involved with the dog,” says dog trainer Kerry McBride, who has owned El Dorado Pet Club, a doggie daycare, boarding, grooming, and training facility in Shingle Springs, for more than 22 years. She’s also been a trainer for Hangtown Kennel Club since 1983. “The more fun and less stress you have while being with your dog makes a huge difference,” she says. “Not everyone cares if the dog walks on your left or right side, but everyone loves a happy, not-pulling dog.”
ARTICLE BY KRISTA MINARD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLENE TAYLOR
Anyone who’s ever tried to muscle a leash-taut Labrador in squirrel territory can attest to that! Good training will teach a dog to come when called, too—something that’s crucial during emergencies. McBride points out that during catastrophes such as fires or floods, dogs who will “potty” while on a leash and who will stay calm in a crate will fare better than ones who won’t. “They are safer being in a confined environment,” says McBride, who has worked in several natural disasters over the years.
Training isn’t just to help people keep their dogs safe. It’s also just plain fun. “I love to see a bond with a dog and its
owner as they master a walk or trick,” she says. “So many times a bored dog gets into trouble. Once they have a job or are doing something fun, they get the chance to be a joy for people to be around.”
McBride incorporates several different methods for training, including praise, food, leashes, collars, and other equipment. “The pendulum swings on different methods and techniques,” she says, noting that she attends seminars to keep up with the latest training practices. What works is entirely dependent on each dog—and their owner. “I don’t believe in one method, but will try several things to help the dog and owner for success.”
“WHAT WORKS IS ENTIRELY DEPENDENT ON EACH DOG— AND THEIR OWNER.”
One of her methods involves a pack walk. Starting from Ponderosa High School at 6 p.m. (3 p.m. during the winter) on Sundays, El Dorado Pet Club’s free pack walk sometimes includes more than 30 dogs, all learning to walk together calmly on their leashes. “It brings joy not only to the dogs but the owners,” says McBride. Camaraderie abounds, and friendships bloom as people exchange tales and share insights about their animals. One specific tip from McBride for a safe outing: no nose-to-nose greetings while on leash.
One of McBride’s favorite aspects of her job involves the great strides dogs
can achieve with high-quality training. Animals who have come from the deepest corners of the shelter might become service dogs to people with autism or mobility issues, or agencies by lending their noses for drug-sniffing. “Seeing a shelter dog become one of these keeps me going,” says McBride, who has worked with El Dorado County Animal Services on many cases. She also is the president and founder of Foothill Dog Rescue of the Sierras.
At McBride’s El Dorado Pet Club, the belief is this: a tired dog is a happy dog. Attendees enjoy free play in the outdoor
size-separated dog park that has shade, misters, agility equipment, and a doggie swimming pool. They are observed and placed in playgroups according to size, personality, temperament, and energy level. Indoors, where the dogs eat and sleep, the kennel has air conditioning and heat. Grooming is available as well.
“My two daughters and I have been involved with dogs our whole life,” says McBride. “I pretty much eat, sleep, and breathe dogs!” What she says about dog training applies to the family business as well: “Spending time doing fun things together can enhance everyone’s lives.”
ONE HAPPY (ISLAND) FAMILY
Find out why Aruba is a great spot for a family vacation
The Caribbean has some clear associations. Upon hearing the word, your mind is likely to conjure up certain images - sparkling ocean water, white sandy beaches, tropical cocktails, and ... probably pirates (thanks Disney). So while you're likely to think 'vacation,' it's considerably less likely to think 'family vacation.' And for many of the islands that make up the Caribbean, there might be a good reason for that. However, Aruba is, judging by every available mea sure, one of the best places to take your kids. When choosing a destination for a family vacation, safety is often the first consideration. Compared to other Caribbean destinations, Aruba enjoys a very low crime rate and has a reputation as one of the safest islands in the region. Additionally, Aruba lies outside the Caribbean hurricane belt, which makes it a safe and ideal travel destination in the summer (or any time of year, really). With no threat of inclement weather, you're free to enjoy all the outdoor activities the island has to offer. Food and drinking standards are also similar to the United States, to put anxious minds (and sensitive stomachs) at ease.
Another consideration for a family vacation is the type of accommodations available. Luckily, there are a multitude of great family-friendly options to choose from in Aruba. The Renaissance Aruba is a standout, as an all-inclusive resort with both a family property and an adults-only property. The family property serves beach parties at their multiple beach-front pools (with a swim-up bar), while the adults-only property offers a view of the marina, a rooftop pool, and a live DJ. The Renaissance is also close to the airport and offers a free shuttle service.
All of this would be meaningless, however, if there weren't plenty of activities to satisfy the wide and varied tastes of the whole family. Fortunately, there really is something for everyone.
Snorkelers of all levels will rejoice, as there are plenty of things to feast your eyes on in the beautiful blue waters of Aruba. Kids can see friendly sea turtles in the shallower regions, while the more adventurous of the group can go a little deeper and explore the famous coral reefs and various shipwrecks. For those a little less keen on swimming, submarines are also available to provide the same views with less physical demand.
To explore the land, there are ATV tours available where you can take in nearly the entire island while simultaneously learning about the history of Aruba. And back at the beach, there are plenty of unique ways to have fun in the water. Inner tubing on the back of a speedboat is one, particularly popular and thrilling pastime.
Additionally, the Renaissance is attached to a shopping area that includes both local and high-end (e.g., Louis Vuitton, Prada, etc.) stores. There's also a beach-front casino (the only one in Aruba) and massages on the beach. There are beach barbecues hosted by the hotel, replete with an all-you-can-eat buffet and live entertainment.
You might be surprised to learn that there were once gold miners in Aruba. To this day, there is still gold to be found, though they have out lawed people from mining for it. Perhaps the 'gold' left to be mined is in the memories you can create with your family in this beautiful country. It's known as 'one happy island,' and it lives up to its slogan in every way. With its bevy of picturesque beaches and outdoor adventures to be enjoyed, this travel destination is sure to make one happy family as well.
“IT'S KNOWN AS ‘ONE HAPPY ISLAND, ’ AND IT LIVES UP TO ITS SLOGAN IN EVERY WAY.”
EVERY THURSDAY
Live on the Boulevard Concert Series
El Dorado Hills Town Center - Steven Young Amphitheater | 7:00 PM
The award-winning Thursday Night Concert Series is rocking El Dorado Hills with a fabulous line-up that will get you out of your seat and dance! Now until September 5th, you can enjoy these concerts with the whole family. Concerts are festival-style seating so bring your low-back chairs, and no blankets, or tables, please. edhtowncenter.com/upcoming-events
EVERY SATURDAY
Cars and Coffee
EDH Town Center near Regal Movie Theater | 7:00 AM — 9:30 AM
Cars and Coffee started as a way for car people to meet up and hang out early on Saturday Mornings. Over the last 9 years, it has grown into a very respected family and community-based event where everyone and every type of vehicle is welcome. Come check out the cars and enjoy free coffee and donuts, while they last.
EVERY SUNDAY
Farmers Market
Behind Nibblers and Trek Bicycle 4420 Town Center Blvd, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 | 9:00 AM — 1:00 PM
Our region’s most popular Farmers Market is now open year-round, offering seasonal produce and delights every Sunday. Explore an array of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms, along with homemade honey, jams, spices, and other household favorites. Visit for a delightful experience of fresh flavors and local craftsmanship!
AUGUST 9TH
National Night Out
EDH Community Services District Park | 5:30 PM
Join us for an unforgettable event hosted by the EDC Sheriff's Office and the EDH Fire Department in collaboration with the District. This one-of-a-kind experience is free and features BBQ food, live music, and children's activities. Witness an impressive K-9 demonstration, explore a bomb squad unit along with other police vehicles, and don't miss the EDH Fire Department's CPR demonstration.
AUGUST 17TH
Placerville Third Saturday Art Walk
Historic Main Street in Placerville, CA | 4:00 PM
Experience the vibrant culture of Placerville’s Historic Main Street every third Saturday! Art galleries and merchants stay open late, offering captivating artist demos, live music at the Belltower, and irresistible wine and drink specials. Don’t miss out on this exciting evening of art, music, and community fun!
