Celebrating Joy, Tradition, and Giving Back
The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it a special kind of magic. For many, it’s the favorite time of year—a month filled with gatherings of family and friends, the excitement of giving and receiving gifts, and the joy of shared traditions. Our neighborhood is no exception, offering a wealth of festive events and celebrations throughout the month.
We’re excited to showcase how our community spreads holiday cheer. On our events page, you'll find local holiday traditions and activities to explore with your family. And, get into the spirit with a guide to a Christmas tree-hunting adventure. We’ve also put together a handy EDH gift list because shopping locally helps you find unique gifts and supports our community. Plus, don’t miss the story behind a local business that transforms into a Christmas emporium each year, maintaining a strong commitment to community support and tradition through five generations of family ownership.
As much as this season is about joy and togetherness, it’s also about giving back. We highlight a local charity that’s making a big impact, one teddy bear at a time, for nonprofits across the region. City Lifestyle’s nonprofit organization also kicks off their annual Giving Campaign, providing assistance to people in need this season. Your nomination could make all the difference for someone in our community.
Let’s take a moment to remember the true meaning of this season. Wishing you warmth and happiness throughout the month. Happy Holidays!
KRISTY MURDOCH, PUBLISHER @ELDORADOHILLSCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Kristy Murdoch | kristy.murdoch@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Todd Murdoch | todd.murdoch@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Matt Clark | matt.clark@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Krista Minard
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Cadence Murdoch
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Krista Minard, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Charlene Taylor, Kimberlee Brooke & Co, Janie Jones
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
DECEMBER 2024
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: The Oak Ridge High School band performs an opening suite for the annual Homecoming Parade 2: Jay Rolerz Band entertains the attendees of the Hands4Hope 4th Annual Endless Summer Beach Party 3: Passersby wave at the Senior Class float while students pass out candy to the kids 4: The Niello Concours at Serrano event, celebrating 20 years of car show tradition 5: The judges conduct their evaluations at the Niello Concours event in Serrano 6: The Oak Ridge Junior Class having fun at the neighborhood Homecoming Parade 7: The ladies of Runway Boutique celebrate their 15th Anniversary in El Dorado Hills
Designer Labels AT
AFFORDABLE PRICES
Renaissance is a premier luxury boutique that brings the passion of the runway to stylish women who appreciate and love couture fashion. Dedicated to providing the trendiest and highest quality pieces at a fraction of the cost, Renaissance empowers customers to look and feel like their most confident selves, while providing a unique and enjoyable shopping experience that keeps our fashion enthusiasts coming back for more.
business monthly
Feeding the Foothills: New Name, Renewed Commitment to Hunger Relief
Feeding the Foothills (formerly Placer Food Bank) is dedicated to providing a lifeline of essential food resources in El Dorado, Placer, and Nevada counties. The new name aligns with their broader impact and dedication to alleviating hunger in our region. As part of the Feeding America network, they strive to build a stronger, more compassionate community. For more information about Feeding the Foothills and their mission, visit feedingthefoothills.org
Unleash the Pampering! GroomBar Luxury Mobile Pet Spa Now Open
Say goodbye to stressful car rides and hello to a relaxed grooming experience for your furry friend! Bark Avenue, your one-stop shop for pet nutrition and spa treatments, announces its brand-new mobile pet spa service. Professional groomers will come to your doorstep, providing top-notch care, perfect for pups who get anxious at salons. New customers will receive a special $15 discount on their first service! Text (949) 867-4506 to schedule your pet’s pampering session today!
The 15th Annual Hands4Hope Winter Boutique Needs Your Help
Hands4Hope Community Engagement Youth Ambassadors recently partnered with local schools and businesses to collect new and gently used items for those in need. Now, volunteers are needed to sort and prepare items, decorate the space for a festive atmosphere, and assist during the Winter Boutique free “shopping” days Dec. 7-8 and 14-15. For ways to help, visit hands4hopeyouth.org/warmfuzzydrive
Holiday Gift Guide
As the holiday season approaches, the search for the perfect Christmas gift begins. Shopping locally is not just an opportunity to find exceptional presents—it's a chance to support our community. From vintage treasures to gourmet treats, our local artisans and small businesses are ready to share their passions with you. Explore the vibrant shops, boutiques, and more that make our town a perfect place for holiday shopping while discovering gifts for the fashionista, the athlete, the outdoorsman, and the one with a sweet tooth. Let us celebrate the spirit of giving together by supporting our neighbors and making El Dorado Hills shine a little brighter.
HILLS
HARVESTING HOLIDAYSPIRIT
If you have ever seen the movie Christmas Vacation , you certainly can picture the Griswold family embarking on a noble but ill-fated quest to find the “perfect” Christmas tree—only to forget a saw. While your trip to the Eldorado National Forest to cut your own tree doesn’t need to be quite so adventurous, it can still be a fun, family-friendly experience.
First, you’ll need to get a permit. Visit recreation.gov and look for Eldorado National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing. Permits typically sell out quickly, so plan ahead.
Once you have your permit, it must be carried with you on your trip to find your tree. You will also need to print or download a Christmas tree permit map to locate legal cutting areas.
Cutting down your own Christmas tree in the Eldorado National Forest
ARTICLE BY TODD MURDOCH
Some popular spots include Ice House Road, which takes you through a beautiful stretch of wilderness known for its towering evergreens; Silver Fork Road near Kyburz, with scenic mountain views and an abundance of trees, making it a perfect spot to search for that ideal Christmas tree; Georgetown Divide, a quieter, more remote area less frequented by other tree hunters.
While driving into the forest, you’ll find breathtaking views, snow-dusted landscapes (if you’re lucky), and plenty of trees to choose from. Be sure to follow forest guidelines, such as selecting trees less than 20 feet tall and leaving a stump 6 inches high or less. And, unlike the Griswolds, don’t forget your saw!
If permits sell out, or you want to make things easier with little ones, these Caminobased farms typically provide tools and assistance, ensuring a convenient, but still memorable tree-cutting experience:
• McGee: Growing quality trees since 1952, their 20-acre plantation has one of the largest selections in the county.
• Crystal Creek: A family-friendly farm with several options for cut-your-own trees.
• Indian Rock: Serving the community for more than 63 years and known for beautiful views. They even send Christmas trees to soldiers overseas who are from El Dorado County.
• Hillside: Offers a variety of trees in a scenic atmosphere. Purchase a tree and you get a free ride on the kiddie train!
Cutting your own Christmas tree adds a special rustic touch to your holiday season while also helping with forest management and wildfire prevention. Even if your tree-hunting adventure turns into a Griswold-style misadventure, it’s the memories you make along the way that will truly last a lifetime.
A Family Tradition
The story behind Emigh Ace Hardware’s Christmas shop
For over a century, Emigh Ace Hardware has been a destination for Christmas shoppers, embracing the holiday spirit since 1908. Originally part of the main hardware store, the holiday section expanded in 2000 with the opening of the Outdoor Living Store in Sacramento. Today, this cherished tradition continues in El Dorado Hills, offering an array of Christmas décor and gifts.
The inspiration for Emigh's Christmas shop stems from patriarch granddaughter/ owner Mary (Emigh) Lawrence and her friend Marcia Schallig, who designed the store’s original holiday displays. Their creativity and passion continue to influence the shop’s design, preserving a family tradition that has lasted through five generations of Emighs and Lawrences in the business.
While Emigh is well-known for its wide selection of Christmas lights, it also features unique carefully curated ornaments and holiday gifts, sourced from family-owned businesses in Northern California. Shoppers are greeted with a warm cup of cider, adding a personal touch to their experience.
Emigh Ace is also deeply committed to giving back to the community. Through their in-store gift tree and partnership with Ace Hardware, they raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network and UC Davis Children’s Hospital, with over $15,000 already raised to date. At the end of each season, they even donate their fresh-cut Christmas trees to local zoos to use as toys, scratching posts, etc. for animal enrichment.
In addition to holiday décor, Emigh Ace Hardware is a great place to find gifts. For grilling enthusiasts, they offer top brands like Traeger and Ooni. Handy individuals will appreciate premium tools from trusted names like Milwaukee and DeWalt. They also feature a variety of Yeti products. The store’s selection ensures you can find quality, practical gifts while supporting a local, family-owned business.
Whether you’re shopping for Christmas decorations or the perfect gift, Emigh Ace offers a timeless blend of tradition, quality, and community involvement—making every visit feel special during the holiday season and beyond.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY MURDOCH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLENE TAYLOR
Emigh offers a timeless blend of tradition, quality, and community involvement.”
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
Helping Children Bear It
STUFFED ANIMALS CAN BRING COMFORT IN WAYS NOTHING ELSE CAN
It all started about a dozen years ago when a compassionate high school senior wanted to send some soft, fluffy solace to children on the other side of the country. What followed resulted in Bears By Your Side, a local nonprofit organization that gives handmade teddy bears to children in crisis in El Dorado County and beyond. We caught up with Rebecca Giles, Bears By Your Side co-founder, to learn more.
WHAT IS THE MISSION OF YOUR ORGANIZATION, AND HOW WAS IT FOUNDED?
Bears By Your Side’s mission is to provide comfort to children in crisis. It was created in 2013 by my son, Cruz Fregoso, then a senior at Ponderosa High School in Shingle Springs. He decided to help children cope with the Sandy Hook Elementary School devastation by sending teddy bears. It was soon clear that those children were overwhelmed with teddy bears from all over, so Cruz decided to help children in his home area of El Dorado County. I posted a story about the bear idea on Facebook, and Cruz received financial contributions, several bears, and offers to help with a website . . . Bears By Your Side was born!
ARTICLE BY KRISTA MINARD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEARS BY YOUR SIDE
HOW DOES BEARS BY YOUR SIDE CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMMUNITY AND ELSEWHERE?
We have provided more than 500 bears so far this year to organizations including Marshall Hospital, Upper Room Dining Hall, CASA El Dorado, New Morning Youth & Family Services, several schools and, outside our area, Ronald McDonald House Northern Nevada, Kiwanis Family House in Sacramento, Foster Love, and Foster Children Safe Haven in Southern California.
WHAT’S ANOTHER WAY YOUR ORGANIZATION COLLABORATES WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS?
Bears By Your Side also collaborates with Dream Catchers EDH, a nonprofit whose mission is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live their best lives. Cruz is a participant in this program. Last year Cruz wanted to do something special for the participants of Dream Catchers. We decided to make a limited-edition bear Christmas ornament for him to give to each of his fellow participants. We held a fundraiser benefiting Bears By Your Side and Dream Catchers EDH. The participants could attend a beautiful dinner, dance the night away, receive the ornaments from Cruz, and visit with Santa—all in a safe environment that isn’t always available for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Through sponsorships, we were able to provide this wonderful evening and make a little money for both organizations. We are pleased to be doing it again this year (on Dec. 6).
CAN YOU SHARE A SUCCESS STORY THAT EXEMPLIFIES THE IMPACT OF YOUR WORK?
One of our favorite stories came from a patient at Marshall Hospital. An infant was in with some serious medical issues. The staff at Marshall gave the baby one of our bears. The mother was so touched, she reached out to tell us what a difference we made. I’m not sure the baby really knew what was going on, but it definitely brought comfort to his mother. Happily, I have heard the baby is home and doing well and has his new bear friend with him.
“The staff at Marshall gave the baby one of our bears. The mother was so touched, she reached out to tell us what a difference we made.”
“We rely on donations, grants, and fundraisers. Our short-term goal is to expand our office; we also need more bear makers as we rely on volunteers. We have kits with makings for five teddy bears. The more bear makers, the more children we can serve!”
WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM GOALS?
We are growing rapidly, and we do not have an income stream. We rely on donations, grants, and fundraisers. Our short-term goal is to expand our office (in downtown Placerville); we also need more bear makers as we rely on volunteers. We have kits with makings for five teddy bears. The more bear makers, the more children we can serve! Our long-term goal is to expand with staff and a grant writer.
PLEASE TELL US ABOUT THE NEW DOCUMENTARY.
On Nov. 7, Drat Productions’ “The Cruz Story . . . Bears By Your Side” was released. It is a short documentary about Cruz, his triumphs despite challenges, and his successes. It’s available to watch on the Bears By Your Side website and Facebook page and on YouTube.
HOW CAN OTHERS GET INVOLVED?
Our website provides ways to contribute monetarily and as a bear-making volunteer. We also have a WishList on Amazon (link on Facebook page).
(530) 363-8041; bearsbyyourside.com (209) 400-1332; dreamcatchersedh.org
Ornament from last year's fundraiser event
Holiday Entertaining Boards
The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board
• Fig Jelly
• Honey
• Variety of Cheeses
• Salami or meat of choice
• Olives (provide a variety)
• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut
• Grapes, berries, persimmon
• Crackers
Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh Rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries. CONTINUED >
Sweet Treat Cocoa Board
• A variety of fresh berries or desired fruit
• Marshmallows
• Hot Cocoa Mix
• Chocolate Covered Pretzels
• Chocolate Covered Cherries
• Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers
• Chocolate Covered Biscotti
• Hot Cocoa Bomb
• Holiday Cookie Cutter
Place your favorite holiday cookie cutter on the board first. Fill the cookie cutter with mini marshmallows. Next, layer the large items first. Begin with the chocolate covered Biscotti and build around that using berries. Pile the berries high. Next add a variety of chocolate covered treats on opposite sides of each other between the mounds of berries. Be sure to add touches of berries around the edges. If space allows, place hot cocoa on board. Otherwise, set bowl full of hot cocoa mix and any additional hot cocoa fixings adjacent to the board.
The Pastry Board
• Donuts
• Cinnamon Rolls
• French Beignets
• Rosemary sprigs for garnish
Layer board with larger pastries first and layer in with smaller pastry next. Garnish board with holiday sprigs or fresh herbs.
MONTHLY PACKAGES INCLUDE:
SMART BODY SCALE (YOURS TO KEEP)
WEEKLY INJECTIONS (SHIPPED TO YOU)
MONTHLY CHECK-INS (OFFICE/TELEMED)
STARTING AT $395/MO.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 29TH - DECEMBER 22ND
Imagination Theater! Presents “Miracle on 34th Street”
Imagination Theater, 100 Placerville Drive, Placerville
This nostalgic and heartwarming tale is about faith and the true spirit of Christmas. Based on the classic 1947 film, this show is directed by Peter Wolfe and is sure to bring magic into your holiday season. Your community theater is located on the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Visit ITplacerville.org for tickets and more information.
DECEMBER 1ST - 15TH
El Dorado Hills CSD Letters to Santa Event
EDH Community Park, 1021 Harvard Way
Santa would love to hear from all his friends in El Dorado Hills and promises to return letters. Letters to Santa can be dropped off at the holiday mailbox, located outside the Pavilion building, starting Dec.1. In your letter, please include a stamped and self-addressed envelope, so Santa can respond! eldoradohillscsd.org
DECEMBER 7TH
Town Center Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
El Dorado Hills Town Center | 4:00 PM
Come join the fun! The EDH Fire Department starts its annual Santa Run with Santa and Mrs. Claus lighting the tree. Festivities include a choir performance at 4 p.m. and Jessica Malone band performance at 7 p.m. The EDH Chamber of Commerce will also host photos with Santa at the California Welcome Center Dec 5 to 24.
DECEMBER 10TH - 13TH
El Dorado Hills Fire Department Annual Santa Run
Various Neighborhood Stops Throughout EDH
Santa, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, and the EDH Fire Department will visit local neighborhoods, passing out candy canes and collecting donations of new unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items benefiting Shriners hospital and the EDC Food Bank. For details, donation info, and map routes, visit the Santa Run page at edhfire.com
DECEMBER 14TH, 21ST, AND 22ND
Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Rides
El Dorado Hills Town Center | 4:00 PM
Visitors to the courtyard by the Town Center movie theater can enjoy a festive evening with a horse-drawn carriage ride. Hosted by the Hands4Hope Youth Board, 15-minute rides will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. (weather permitting). Proceeds benefit the Hands4Hope Youth Scholarship Fund. For information and pricing, visit hands4hopeyouth.org/events
DECEMBER 17TH
Nashville Songwriters Live Benefit Concert
Harris Center for the Arts, Folsom | 7:00 PM
Join top songwriters Jeffrey Steele, Mark Mackay, and CJ Solar for an intimate acoustic performance as they share stories behind hits for artists like Keith Urban and Eric Church. Enjoy an evening of music and storytelling while supporting Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference. Get your tickets at hands4hopeyouth.org/nashvillelive for a night to remember!
