Village Life, Thursday, March 21, 2024

When Mike Hillhouse applied to serve on the El Dorado Hills Fire Board, he said he went into the interview “completely not expecting my name to be said” when the board made its selection among seven candidates.

It was.

Now, a er several months on the job, the El Dorado Hills resident who wears a Central County Fire Department uniform during his day job, said

of the vote in the district, which encompasses most of El Dorado Hills. Ferrero’s chief competition, charter school creator Margaret Fortune, trails behind at 28.91% of the vote, while Linda Campbell sits at 7.35% of the count.

Mike Hillhouse steps up

he’s already considering extending his one-year term appointment into four more years, should voters choose to elect him this coming November.

Hillhouse is nishing the term started by longtime board member Jim Hartley, who died in August 2023.

The new director praised Hartley as well as current and former board members. “I’m stepping into such a great thing,” he said, explaining that past boards’ decisions, plus the work done with the unions, have put the El Dorado Hills Fire Department in a great

On his campaign Facebook page, Ferrero thanks all his supporters, volunteers and donors. “Throughout my campaign, I have had the privilege of visiting with (thousands) of residents and listening to your concerns, hopes and aspirations,” the post notes. “As District 1 supervisor, I am committed to addressing the issues of our community and advocating for the well-being and prosperity of our residents. I look forward to serving you.”

Fortune posted a message on her campaign website, margaret4supervisor.com, conceding the race to Ferrero.

“I look forward to working with him as I continue my role as an elected leader on the El Dorado Resource Conservation District Board,” Fortune states. “I’m grateful for the support our campaign received. Thank you to all our dedicated volunteers who poured their hearts into this campaign. Knocking

page A6 Noel Stack Managing editor

EDHCSD keeps Loewen report close ...

El Dorado Hills Community Services District general counsel Derek Cole reported at the March 14 EDHCSD Board of Directors meeting that the investigation regarding former General Manager Kevin Loewen’s conduct while employed at the district is complete and a report has been submitted.

However, he noted much to some residents’ dismay, “There is nothing we can report at this time,” citing attorney-client privilege.

“I know there is a lot of interest in this report,” Cole said. “I certainly understand why.”

Each board member and sta will have the opportunity to individually read the full report, a er which, Cole said, they will hold a meeting and decide what information to release.

The attorney also shared that he would be providing Brown Act training to EDHCSD board members next month.

on thousands of doors, meeting so many residents who care about our community and want to see it thrive was the experience of a lifetime. I will continue to be an active contributor to our community and help shape it for the better.”

In the District 2 race, incumbent Supervisor Turnboo maintains his lead. Turnboo has garnered 54.41%, 7,062, of the district’s vote, according to the Friday count. District 2 encompasses the southern portion of El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park, Grizzly Flat, Somerset and much of the southern portion of the county.

Two individuals hoped to unseat Turnboo — Kevin McCarty, who works in business compliance and has background in land use and government a airs, grabbed 26.74% of the vote; 18.85% of votes went ■ See ELECTION page A5

The

WHAT’S HAPPENING

March 23

Master Gardeners of El Dorado County hosts Culinary Herbs: From Garden to Gourmet, 9 a.m. to noon at the Blackstone Community Center in El Dorado Hills. No fat, low fat, no salt, watch the sugar; we’re constantly bombarded about how to eat healthier. One of the best ways to introduce healthy, delicious avor into meals is to use herbs in our cooking. Many are easy to grow and preserve. They also make beautiful landscape plants and many of their owers are edible. Join Master Gardeners Jan Keahey and Ada Brehmer to explore the herbs that grow well in our area, how to propagate and grow, when to harvest and how to preserve.

Enjoy a playful day of Easter Bunny visits and photos, music, games, prizes, magic show, balloon artistry, face painting and more at El Dorado Hills Town Center’s Baskets and Bunnies event, 10 a.m. to noon. Children 12 and younger will receive an Easter basket to visit participating business to gather up to 12 eggs lled with candy, toys and some a special gift. The Easter Bunny will roam around for a short bit and then land in the lobby next to South Fork Grille, where you can meet the him and receive a photo taken by Charm Photography. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.

Face in a Book in El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts a book signing and story time with Erin Dealey, author of “Just Flowers,” 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information call (916) 941-9401 or visit getyourfaceinabook.com.

CRIB NOTES by Julie Samrick Dance mom, no more

Istill remember my daughter’s scowl from that great, big stage, shrinking into her 3-yearold self, hands clasped tightly around her little red costume. The tutu looked out of place, happy in a moment that appeared miserable. As the other parents smiled delightedly at their little dancers swaying to “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” I grimaced as mine looked like she was getting a tooth pulled, furrowed brow in contrast with her shimmery makeup and carefully styled hair.

We took a break from dance a er that. I wondered why we’d signed up in the rst place. Was it because she was my rst girl a er two boys and I wanted to do all things girly with her? In the meantime, she sampled the same sports her brothers played from soccer to basketball to swim team.

By the time she was in second grade, she was still painfully shy but asked to start dance lessons again, and she never looked back. In the past 10 years she has spent thousands of hours developing her cra . It has cost time and money, but what she gained from dance is priceless. She learned discipline and structure.

It has been a creative outlet that has helped her delve deeper into schoolwork too. The gains continued with working closely on a team, building camaraderie and developing some of her closest friendships. Yet the biggest reward is how she has transformed from shrinking on stage to soaring, from scowling to smiling. She has evolved from the girl who sat quietly in the back of a classroom, OK to take a zero if it meant she wouldn’t have to talk in middle school, to

MESSAGE FROM EID by Jim

a con dent high school senior who holds her head high, knowing she adds value to class discussions. Earlier this month I went with her to her nal out-of-town dance competition before she graduates from high school in May. I mentally ticked o the lasts of this chapter as I savored time with the other dance moms. For so long we stood in countless dressing rooms ready with handheld steamers, hairspray and snacks. Then at some point the girls started to turn to each other to help with hair, make-up and snack runs instead, and we moms turned to each other. I checked o the last time I’d watch dancers from all over the region giving their all onstage, at arguably the most self-conscious time in their lives, rooting for them all as they’d strut to the music with their heads held high, beaming.

She performed her senior solo at the event. I remembered the time when she declined a solo not so long ago. “No way could I do that,” she told me. Yet a week before this dance, she had to decide between basic black or bright red leggings to wear over her gold and red leotard. To my surprise she chose the red, not hiding any longer.

On the drive down she wondered, “I’m not sure what facial expression to have during the dance,” so we listened to the song. She went through the motions from her seat and I listened with intention. I heard determination and power.

“Think to yourself, ‘I am strong and powerful’,” I

■ See SAMRICK, page A6

Abercrombie

Commitment to customers

At the El Dorado Irrigation District, we are dedicated to providing safe and reliable services to our community. Our teams work tirelessly to address customer needs and ensure the integrity of our water systems around the clock, year round.

A key aspect of our mission is the continuous reliability of our infrastructure. Our veyear capital improvement plan details our approach for upgrading and replacing crucial assets. Given the historical costs of EID’s infrastructure amounts to more than a billion dollars, these projects are expensive.

To nance these capitalintensive projects, the district employs longterm, low-interest debt. This approach is practical because it allows the customers who bene t from the improved and rebuilt essential infrastructure to contribute to the costs over time. We also seek out and obtain grant assistance to help o set the costs for our ratepayers.

LETTER

Border issues

EDITOR:

TOne of the many critical projects in this plan is the replacement of the Sly Park Intertie, an important water conduit that connects the Reservoir 1 and Reservoir A water treatment plants in Pollock Pines — the district’s two largest supply sources.

The Sly Park Intertie was constructed under emergency drought conditions in 1978 to alleviate water shortages in Jenkinson Lake, EID’s primary drinking water reservoir. However, since its emergency construction, the unlined pipeline has signi cantly corroded, resulting in significant degradation, forcing the district to take it out

he so-called border security bill that the Republicans voted down … thank goodness. It wasn’t because of President Trump; it was the voters letting the Republicans know it was a bad bill. It was going to let 5,000 illegals a day in without background checks and just give them a court date that’s ve years out.

The border should be closed, shut down. We need to go back to legal immigration where they learn about America and become citizens.

Tom Homan, former acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement under President Trump, states that we have an immigration crisis — worst sex tra cking, human tra cking, fentanyl tra cking (thousands of Americans dying) and a terror threat our nation has not faced since 9/11. You can visit Border911. com for more information.

President Trump’s administration had brought apprehensions down to between 800 to 1,500 illegals a day in his nal year, the lowest number in 45 years. Four months into President Biden administration apprehensions spiked to about 6,000 per day; this is open borders under President Biden. No thanks. I’ll vote for a president

of service.

Recognizing the importance of this pipeline for water supply reliability, EID applied for funding under the Urban and Multibene t Drought Relief Program, authorized by the Budget Act of 2021. We were awarded a $10 million grant from the California Department of Water Resources to help fund the cost of construction. This grant is part of DWR’s drought relief grant programs that o er nancial assistance to address drought impacts through projects with multiple bene ts.

The new Sly Park Intertie will consist of a 24-inch pipeline constructed along the same alignment as the original, along with a new pump station at the Reservoir A Water Treatment Plant in Pollock Pines to facilitate bi-directional ow to and from both major water supply sources. This upgrade will enhance the reliability and exibility of our water supply system, especially during droughts and emergen-

who has secured our border before and that’s President Trump.

Did you know that the promises he made during his campaign he kept. Here are a few: the tax cuts signed into law within 12 months of taking o ce added more than 2.6 million new jobs in the year following their passage; multinational American companies had earned hundreds of billions of dollars in untaxed pro ts over the years from overseas business, he vowed to put a stop to it — and did. He created the lowest Black and minority unemployment in history before COVID-19; for every new regulation, nearly eight old ones were cut, saving Americans $377 billion per year or $3,100 per household. He bene ted 40 million families with a child tax credit and created 9,000 opportunity zones in distressed cities (Sen. Tim Scott’s bill). Many more promises were kept.

I’ll ask: do we really want open borders?

Founding Father John Jay stated America belongs to “We the people.” It does not belong to Congress. It doesn’t belong to special interest groups. It does not belong to the courts. It belongs to “We the People.” Make your vote count for saving America.

DAWN IRISH El Dorado

cies. In addition to the Sly Park Intertie Replacement Project, EID is also focused on the maintenance and rehabilitation of our 22-mile-long canal and

■ See ABERCROMBIE, page A4

In order to effectively treat your neuropathy 3 factors must be determined. Our advanced treatment method has 3 main goals What is the underlying cause?

1 How much nerve damage has been sustained?

2 How much treatment will your condition require? 3

longer feel sharp or shooting pains and most of the tingling is gone. I now have full balance and can walk without pain. As Dr. Kinney explained the treatment is not painful, nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.” – Neuropathy Pain Patient

Three El Dorado County schools awarded ‘distinguished’ recognition

El Dorado County Office of Education

In a recent celebration of educational excellence, Camerado Springs Middle School from Buckeye Union School District, Herbert C. Green Middle School from Mother Lode Union School District and Marina Village Middle School from Rescue Union School District have been awarded the 2024 California Distinguished Schools accolade. This recognition comes as part of the California Distinguished Schools Program’s annual tradition of honoring outstanding educational achievements within the state.

“In recognizing these school communities, California celebrates their accomplishments and commitment,” said El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala. “Their hard work and innovation have benefited their students and set an inspiring example for other educators. Congratulations to the teams for their dedication to education and for fostering environments where every student can thrive.”

School officials shared their gratitude and excitement following the announcement.

“We want to congratulate parents/guardians, students, teachers, and staff as this recognition is the result of the entire Camerado Springs community’s efforts and is well deserved,” BUSD officials posted.

“Thank you to our staff, students, families and community for your dedication to excellence in educa-

tion,” MLUSD officials noted.

“This award does not happen without the Marina Village staff’s hard work and commitment to excellence,” said RUSD Superintendent Jim Shoemake. “It is so nice to see their collective effort so publicly recognized.”

“The Rescue USD School Board is proud of the work of the MVMS leadership and staff,” added Rescue USD Board President Michael Gordon. Marina Village Middle School Principal Levi Cambridge shared, “This award is a tribute to the amazing families, staff and students here at Marina. Their dedication and passion for our students is an inspiration.”

“It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these 293 secondary schools for their efforts to provide exemplary public education to all students. Excellent middle schools and high schools play a critical role in the life outcomes of our young people,” said California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. “This year’s California Distinguished

Abercrombie

Schools celebration provides us with an opportunity to recognize the hard work of our secondary educators and school staff who help our young adults discover passions and access college- and career-ready experiences that will propel them through life.”

The 2024 edition of the California Distinguished Schools Program highlights schools that have achieved remarkable progress in applying the academic content and performance standards set by the State Board of Education. Being named a California Distinguished School signifies a school’s unwavering dedication to educational excellence, underscored by innovative teaching methods, dynamic leadership and an allencompassing approach to student success.

Camerado Springs Middle School, Herbert C. Green Middle School and Marina Village Middle School have excelled academically and made significant contributions to their surrounding areas, setting benchmarks for holistic education that prioritizes academic and personal growth.

flume system. This system is instrumental in transporting nearly a third of EID’s overall water supply. However, it faces challenges such as susceptibility to natural disasters like the recent Caldor Fire. Our commitment to upgrading this system is vital for safeguarding our water supply and enhancing the resilience of our infrastructure.

In an effort to bolster our emergency preparedness and system resilience, the EID Board of Directors recently approved funding for the Emergency Backup Generator Upgrades Project. This project, primarily funded by a $3.5 million grant from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency will ensure the uninterrupted operation of critical water and wastewater facilities during power outages. The project will see the installation of emergency backup power generators at 15 remote sites, including eight

The California Distinguished Schools is an annual school recognition program of the California Department of Education. Elementary schools and middle and high schools are recognized in alternate years; therefore, awardees hold the title for two years.

Continued from A3

water and seven wastewater pumping facilities, thereby enhancing the reliability of our services during power outages. EID’s commitment to our customers and our community is unwavering. Through efforts like the Sly Park Intertie Replacement Project, the maintenance and replacement of wooden flumes with concrete, the Emergency Backup Generator Upgrades Project and many others, we are dedicated to enhancing the resilience of our infrastructure for the benefit of our customers and the communities we serve — for generations to come.

Our proactive approach to infrastructure maintenance and improvement ensures that we are well prepared to meet the challenges of the future while continuing to deliver the high-quality services our customers expect.

Jim Abercrombie is the EID general manager.

The beauty of India was shared by Rupsi and Mauli at their booth, above left. Visitors at the Heritage Festival were treated to an international Dance Arts Collective performance, above right, featuring a traditional Portuguese dance.

Dina Gentry

Inspiring women take center stage at Lake Forest

News release

In a remarkable celebration of International Women’s Day, Lake Forest Elementary School proudly hosted an informational and inspirational event at the Lake Forest Gym on March 8.

The event was organized by Lake Forest Librarian Debbie Shedd, retired Librarian Cindy Carpenter and Principal Dr. Renee Mallot, aimed to empower and inspire young students, particularly those in fourth and fifth grades, by introducing them to the diverse and impactful careers of women in various professional fields.

The event featured a distinguished lineup of presenters who are respected in their

respective areas of expertise — attorneys, doctors, business owners, authors, non-profit leaders, entrepreneurs, nurses and law enforcement officers to name a few. These accomplished women shared their career journeys, challenges, triumphs and the impact of their work on society, providing students with a rare opportunity to learn and get inspired.

“Our goal was to celebrate International Women’s Day by showcasing the incredible contributions of women in different professions,” Shedd explained. “We wanted our students to see firsthand the wide array of career paths available to them, regardless of gender, and to understand that their dreams and aspirations have no bounds.”

Senior Nutrition Programs volunteers urgently needed

Margaret Williams EDC Health and Human Services Agency

The El Dorado County Senior Nutrition Program is in great need of volunteers to help in the Senior Nutrition kitchen, provide office support or drive meals to homebound seniors enrolled in the county’s Home Delivered Meals Program.

“We’re thankful that the Senior Nutrition Program helps so many senior residents throughout our county,” said Yvette Wencke, program manager with El Dorado County Senior Services. “However, our current staff and volunteers are stretched very thin. We’re looking for additional community members who can help.”

The Senior Nutrition Program prepares and serves nutritious meals for seniors five days per week at seven community dining sites in the county and prepares hundreds of meals each day for homebound residents. According to Wencke, the Senior Nutrition Program traditionally needs 200 volunteers per month and currently only has 160. Volunteers are needed both on the West Slope of the county and in the South Lake Tahoe area.

“Unfortunately, we lost many volunteers during the pandemic and several longtime volunteers left due to advanced age or moving out of the area,” explained Wencke. “We hope to find additional people who’d love

to volunteer with us and enjoy serving local seniors.

“We appreciate our volunteers very much,” added Wencke. “They often tell us how rewarding their experience is, including the bonds and connections they’ve made with other volunteers and the clients they serve.”

Individuals interested in volunteering with the Senior Nutrition Program are encouraged to contact program staff at (530) 621-6160. The Senior Nutrition Program also holds a monthly one-hour volunteer orientation where potential new volunteers can learn about the opportunities and can ask questions.

The next Volunteer Orientation sessions are scheduled 1-2 p.m. on April 4 and May 2 at the Placerville Senior Center. Those interested in volunteering in the South Lake Tahoe area may call (530) 621-6160 with questions or to schedule an in-person orientation to be held at the South Lake Tahoe Senior Center, 3050 Lake Tahoe Blvd.

The El Dorado County Senior Nutrition Program is one of many national senior nutrition programs funded under the Older Americans Act of 1965 serving older adults through home-delivered meal service and community dining centers. The program is a service of the El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency.

For more information about the Senior Nutrition Program and other senior services visit edcgov.us/ SeniorService.aspx.

to Chris Cockrell, an owner of Sam’s Town Cyclery in Shingle Springs. McCarty, the runner-up, congratulated Turnboo for winning his reelection in a March 8 post on Facebook, stating his confidence the incumbent will “faithfully represent all the people of our District 2 communities.”

“It has been an honor and a pleasure to run this campaign and meet so many amazing people in the process. I knew from the beginning that the journey would be far more consequential than the destination, and I cannot speak highly enough about all the people who stepped up to help spread the word, canvass neighborhoods and get out the vote,” McCarty writes. “I intend to stay engaged with our county government operations in any way I can, not least of which as a private citizen, to ensure better policy outcomes regardless of the topic at hand,” he continues. “In the meantime I hope to stay in contact with all of you and look forward to speaking further soon.”

Turnboo did not responded to a request for comment as of press time.

In District 3, former Supervisor Veerkamp beat two opponents for the seat currenlty held by Wendy Thomas, who decided not to run again.

Online at: www.morerehab.org

Courtesy photo

During an International Women’s Day event, professionals in a variety of careers shared their stories and messages of encouragement to Lake Forest students.

Village Life photo by Odin Rasco

District 1 Supervisor hopeful Greg Ferrero is joined by friends and supporters for a private election night party that quickly packed a portion of El Dorado Saloon in El Dorado Hills. Ferrero secured an early lead.

EDHCSD

Earlier this year the EDHCSD board and staff received a letter from the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office confirming an investigation into “some past actions” by the district’s board members and Loewen. The letter notes the investigation uncovered apparent Brown Act violations and recommended proper training.

More change

Also at Thursday’s meeting, the directors decided to hire different representation for the legal battle with El Dorado County Auditor-Controller Joe Harn. Directors unanimously voted not to approve an agreement for continued legal services with Kronick Moskovitz Tiedemann & Girard, the law firm that employs now former EDHCSD general counsel David Tyra, who was replaced at the end of February. The firm had been assisting the CSD with its law-

El Dorado Disposal asks residents to properly dispose of batteries and electronic waste as failure to do so could have fiery consequences.

In a six-month period the local trash hauler has reported seven truck fires with lithium-ion batteries and laptop batteries as sources of ignition, among other ignitable materials disposed of in both recycle and trash carts.

“Electronic goods continue to infuse the market as cleaner, more ecofriendly initiatives continue to gain momentum, and it is no fault of the consumer for choosing battery operated goods,” noted Chris Brown, El Dorado Disposal district manager. “The problem is that consumers don’t understand what they need to do with the batteries once they don’t work anymore and our

suit against Harn and the county, as well as litigation related to Heritage Village and the Austin case, which accuses the district of failure to comply with the California Mitigation Fee Act.

Board members gave direction to interim counsel Cole and interim General Manager Mark Hornstra to seek out new legal representation.

The EDHCSD filed a lawsuit against Harn in October 2022 after the auditor purposely left many of the district’s Lighting and Landscaping Assessment District fees off residents’ property tax bills. At that time, the auditor said he took action after noticing discrepancies in the assessments; numbers didn’t match between what CSD consultants tasked with determining appropriate fees had submitted and what the EDHCSD board approved and submitted to the county.

The consultant — David Taussig & Associates — is where former EDHCSD General Manager Kevin

Hillhouse

industry suffers from the confusion.

“Batteries and electronic waste of any type cannot be disposed of in any of the curbside containers,” he continued. “The batteries need to be taped on both ends and disposed of in a plastic container. The e-waste must be brought to one of our locations that accepts that material or we can arrange curbside pick up. Impactful change is going to have to start and end with the consumers.”

El Dorado Disposal provides free curbside battery pick-up upon request. The Buy Back Centers in Cameron Park, 3350 Saratoga Lane, and El Dorado Hills, 4421 Latrobe Road, accept e-waste 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday for free and the Material Recovery Facility, 4100 Throwita Way in Placerville, accepts batteries and e-waste 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week for free. For more information visit eldoradodisposal.com.

Continued from A1

Loewen reportedly worked while on the district’s payroll at the same time. The district ended its relationship with DTA last fall, a couple months before Loewen resigned.

In 2022 Harn asked CSD officials for a letter “indicating that the CSD board was responsible for the accuracy and lawfulness of the assessments,” as it had done the prior year. No letter was received. The same request came in 2023 and, once again, Harn left off assessments when CSD leaders refused to sign the indemnification letter.

Earlier this year the auditor said he was served a 215-page lawsuit amendment and expressed his frustration that the district would rather sue than sign a simple letter, and continues to stonewall the public.

“The CSD board is quick to file lawsuits, but very slow to answer questions,” Harn told Village Life.

The case is scheduled to go to trial July 28 in Placer County.

position. “The problems that a lot of other departments have, we don’t have those problems.”

He complimented EDH Fire leaders for keeping the district’s financial health a top priority while also ensuring crews have good stations and equipment — admitting to a bit of professional envy when he’s on the clock in the Bay Area

Hillhouse said he sees his roles as “a steward of the fire service,” listing his top goals as leaving things better than how he found them and ensuring EDH fire crews have everything they need to protect the community now and into the future.

He spent the first few months in his position listening and learning, with advice and information coming from staff, fellow board members and others. He said his decision-making approach looks at immediate and future impact.

“What we’re doing now ... that has an impact 10-15 years down the road,” he explained. “You have to have those long-term plans.”

His attention to detail has not gone unnoticed.

“Since being selected to serve on the EDH Fire Board of Directors, Mike Hillhouse has provided valuable

offered.

Half expecting her to roll her eyes or smile, she replied, “Yeah, that’s it.”

Continued from A1

insight on the issues that come before the board,” shared board President Tim White. “His experience as a captain/firefighter in the Bay Area, together with his knowledge of the El Dorado Hills community, makes Mike extremely qualified to serve as a director.”

Hillhouse moved to El Dorado Hills 24 years ago. He and his wife Jeni raised twin daughters, now 19, and a son, 15, in the community and his role as a volunteer began when the kids were in elementary school. He helped build above-ground garden beds on the Lake Forest Elementary School campus. He has been a soccer, baseball and volleyball coach for youth programs. However, he joked, he couldn’t pitch in as a teacher when the girls took tap and ballet.

“A community takes a community,” Hillhouse explained of his desire to get involved. “You shouldn’t sit back and say, ‘Well, I pay my taxes and you should just take care of things for me.’”

That thought of service came to mind last fall when EDH Fire advertised the open board seat. “I always say, ‘If not you, who?” I thought, ‘Yeah, I’ll step up and put my name in.”

and all I could think, with tears in my eyes, was how far my girl has come in this, her first, act.

The next day I watched her take the lit-up stage from my eclipsed seat down below. She was strong and confident, gliding across the stage all by herself,

Julie Samrick is an EDH mother, teacher and writer. She is the author of “Murphy’s Miracle: One Dog’s Wild Journey” and “How People Get Their Politics.”

April 2

Civil Grand Jurors’ Association of California- El Dorado County Chapter hosts an informational meeting about the grand jury process at the El Dorado Hills Library at 1:30 p.m. For more information email EDCchapter.CGJA@gmail.com or visit edcgov.us/Grandjury.

April 3

at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM019 or call (877) 258-4825 and mention the same code. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

March 27

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce and Beyond Wellness host a grand opening and ribbon cutting, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at 4420 Town Center Blvd., Suite 130, El Dorado Hills.

March 28

The Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce and SWANK hosts a networking luncheon with speaker Scott Drummond, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Red Hawk Casino in Placerville.

March 30

The El Dorado Hills Community Services District hosts the Easter egg hunt, 9 a.m. sharp at Promontory Park. All children ages 0-12 are invited; bring your own baskets. Pictures with the Easter Bunny take place 9-11 a.m. at Promontory Park. Bring your camera.

Face in a Book in El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts a book signing and story time with Lisa Riddiough, author of “Pie-Rats!,” 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information call (916) 941-9401 or visit getyourfaceinabook.com.

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce hosts a business builder buffet with speaker Assemblyman Joe Patterson, 11:30 a.m. at Hills Church, 800 White Rock Road in El Dorado Hills. To RSVP call (916) 9331335 or visit eldoradohillschamber.org.

Now

Registration is now open for the Bist Sandigo Golf Tournament at the Cameron Park Country Club June 10. For more information and to register call (916) 798-4746 or visit purelyhope.org.

Sutter Street Theatre presents “Cotton Patch Gospel” through March 30 and “The Lightning Thief” through April 7. For tickets and more information call (916) 353-1001 or visit sutterstreettheatre.com.

The Gallery at 48 Natoma presents Abstract Ideas, featuring art by Linda Nunes and Matt Rhoades, through April 18. In the adjacent Community Art Gallery, art from the Children’s Art Classes at the Folsom Art Center is on display through April 11. For more information call call (916) 461-6601 or visit folsom.ca.us.

The El Dorado Hills Town Center Farmers Market takes place year round, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Sunday. Wander behind Nibblers and Trek Bicycle to discover where local area farms showcase

Courtesy photo

EDH firefighters douse burning garbage after it caught fire due to improper disposal of e-waste — one of several incidents over the last six months, according to El Dorado Disposal officials.

1028 Trapani Lane, El Dorado Hills

2,527 square feet

4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms 0.34-acre property

Designer touches elevate EDH home

Step into the epitome of luxury living with this captivating, singlestory residence that boasts stunning valley views.

Modern elegance abounds in this newly built home in the Emerald Peak at Bass Lake Hills community. A er purchase, the owner removed all carpeting, added bidets in all bathrooms as well as paneling in the o ce/bedroom and all new Restoration Hardware cabinet hardware with backplates throughout the home. All light xtures were replaced with high-end visual comfort lights, creating an ambiance of sophistication.

The heart of the home is the spacious great room with a cozy gas replace, easy-care plank laminate ooring and large sliding glass doors for seamless indoor to outdoor entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s delight equipped with upgraded appliances, including a 48-inch range with six burners, a griddle and double ovens below, a built-in 42-inch refrigerator/freezer plus a microwave and warming drawer. The 10-foot center island houses a dishwasher and

farm-style sink, and has bar seating. Other kitchen amenities include a hidden walk-in pantry and family dining area with built-in cabinetry. The home has four bedrooms. Indulge in the luxury of the primary suite, featuring a barn door entry and beautiful views. The spa-inspired bathroom boasts porcelain tile oors, a bidet, spacious shower and quartz countertops surrounding double sinks. The suite also has a generous walk-in closet. Other amenities in the move-in ready home include a laundry room with a sink, cabinetry and drip-dry bar plus leased solar and an attached, tandem three-car garage.

Step outside onto the covered back patio with its inviting replace — an ideal space for year-round entertaining or quiet moments under the stars. The backyard is a blank canvas ready for the new homeowner’s vision; there’s plenty of space to create a personalized outdoor sanctuary. Interested in a private tour of this beautiful Trapani Lane property in El Dorado Hills? Contact Realtor Pat Seide at (916) 712-1617, patricia.seide@cbnorcal.com.

Listed at $1,099,000

MLS #224007400

El Dorado Hills Chamber brings blues greats to town

News release

The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce recently announced the creation of a new signature event. Heart of the Hills is this year dedicated to a true American music art form – the blues.

This one-day festival will take place 1-6 p.m.

Saturday, May 11, at the beautiful outdoor grounds at Overland District, just above Regal Cinemas at El Dorado Hills Town Center. Gates open at noon. Tickets are on sale now at heartofthehillsmusicfest.org.

Top-notch music

Acts booked for the inaugural event will blow music lovers’ socks off.

Tom Rigney is one of the premier American roots music fiddle players on the planet. His band — Tom Rigney and Flambeau — specializes in blazing cajun and zydeco two-steps, lowdown blues, funky New Orleans grooves, boogie woogie piano and roots rock ‘n’ roll. Much of the repertoire is original music written by Rigney, but they mix in some classics from the cajun/ New Orleans songbook.

Flambeau showcases Rigney’s fiery, virtuoso fiddling, his charismatic stage presence and his range and originality as a composer. He and Flambeau have forged a unique sound that blends American roots styles into something original and hot — mixing irresistible grooves with deep musicality and spectacular soloing. Rigney’s highenergy showmanship pulls the audience into his performances and makes them feel they are a part of the music and the show.

“Tom Rigney has written exacting music that requires a high-level of skill to play and absolutely no effort to listen to. Try to sit still while Rigney’s guys play; I dare you. Try to pretend that they are not unabashedly beautiful, wistful, haunting or mirthful; these guys are great,” noted Peter Coyote.

Take some influence from B.B. King, Albert King, Ray Charles and a pinch of Albert Collins. Add in dazzling blues and jazz guitar chops, a rich soulful baritone vocal delivering original, often wry and beleaguered lyrics with sophisticated chord changes and instrumentation, and skills on various horns and keyboards, all delivered with an uptown

cool that never lacks searing passion. It all adds up to the one and only Chris Cain, who has gone from being a newcomer phenomenon bursting onto the blues scene in 1987 with a classic debut release to being a legend, inspiration and longestablished member of the blues pantheon.

Cain’s jazz-informed blues guitar playing is fiery, emotional and always unpredictable. His vocals — gruff, lived-in and powerful — add fuel to the fire. His indelible original songs keep one foot in the blues tradition and both eyes on the future. The pure joy Cain brings to his playing and singing is palpable and draws fans even closer in.

“Chris Cain is for real. He’s a great blues player with an intensity that keeps you on the edge of your seat, wondering what he’s going to do next,” Guitar icon Robben Ford said. “Plus he knows how to write a song you haven’t heard before, full of humor and insight. If you like the blues you’ll like Chris Cain.”

“The hardest thing to do,” said internationally beloved soul-blues rocker Tommy Castro, “is be yourself, take some chances and bring your fans along with you.”

Throughout his long, constantly evolving career, guitarist, singer and songwriter Tommy Castro has always remained true to himself while exploring, growing and creating new music, and he has taken his thousands of devoted fans right along with him. Since his solo debut in 1994, he’s made 16 albums — the last seven for Alligator Records — each its own unique chapter in the book of Tommy Castro. Ranging from horn-fueled R&B to piping hot blues to fiery, stripped-down rock ‘n’ roll, each release is solidly built upon Castro’s unshakable musical

foundation — a dynamic mix of 1960s-influenced guitar-fueled blues, testifying Memphis-soaked blue-eyed soul and Latintinged East San Jose funk, all driven by Castro’s grab-you-by-the-collar vocals and passionate guitar work.

Down to the details

Some parking is available onsite at Overland District, when those spots are filled patrons will be directed to park in the lower parking lot (well-marked) adjacent to Regal Cinema at Town Center. Courtesy shuttle will be available from Red Hawk Casino. Red Hawk will also be taking shuttles back up to the casino after the festival and any patrons who want to sign up should stop at the Red Hawk booth at the event.

VIP ticket holders get in 30 minutes ealy (11:30 a.m.) so they can pick their spot in the front VIP area or other if desired and will be treated to wine tasting and light bites until 1:30 p.m. on the VIP patio.

General admission ticket holders will also be treated to wine tasting between noon and 1:30 p.m. in designated booths around the event perimeter. Drink tickets for “full pour” wine and beer purchases will be available at the drink ticket booth at the onset of event gate opening (for both concert ticket types). Several food trucks will be on site with a variety of delectables and wine and beer (and non-alcoholic beverages) will be for sale (beer and wine via drink ticket purchases). No outside food or beverages (other than two personal water bottles) will be permitted. No pop-up tents. Low back chairs only in the main festival grounds; higher chairs permitted off to the sides or in back only. All proceeds from this event will benefit the many programs of the El Dorado Hills Chamber.

Courtesy photos Tommy Castro & The Painkillers come to El Dorado Hills in May as one of the headliner acts performing at the Heart of the Hills Blues Blast.

TOM RIGNEY

CHRIS CAINE

Learn behind-the-scenes history from ‘Bambi’ voices

Traci Rockefeller Cusack News release

OLD SACRAMENTO — Stage Nine Entertainment presents Friendships: An Afternoon with the Voices of Bambi on Saturday, April 6.

As part of the fun and free community event, Stage Nine will welcome three special guests who were the original voices in the 1942 beloved movie “Bambi” — Donnie Dunagan, voice of Bambi; Peter Behn, voice of Thumper; and Stan Alexander, voice of Flower. Traveling from Southern California, Utah and Texas, this is the first time the three voice artists will be reunited in Sacramento at Stage Nine. Plus, the incredibly popular and talented Disney Fine Artist Michelle St. Laurent will also be at Stage Nine to debut a new painting specially created for the occasion.

Friendships: An Afternoon with the Voices of Bambi will take place in The Underground, an amazing event space just below Stage Nine’s The Vault retail store and art gallery, accessible by a specially designed spiral staircase (elevator access is also available). The special event schedule is as follows:

Saturday, April 6:

• 10:30 a.m. — the enchanting and family-friendly “Bambi” movie will be shown on a screen in The Underground Vault (70 minutes in length; seating is available for first 50 guests)

• Noon to 4 p.m. — Meet & greet, photo opportunities and story sharing with special guests

• 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. — Stage Nine retail stores are open

Each of the voice artists has interesting stories to share. For instance, Dunagan can share fascinating tidbits about how Walt Disney took him under his wing and all about how the iconic roles impacted their lives. He also had a distinguished military career.

The voice artists will be available to sign autographs (for a fee) and St. Laurent will be signing reproductions of her new original art for customers. She will also share stories about her love for painting Bambi, which is her favorite Disney work to paint. In addition, Stage Nine guests can take selfies in front of a specially designed photo backdrop in honor of the occasion.

SThe Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera has announced its concert schedule for the 2024-25 season. The new season, which begins Oct. 26, includes seven performances. Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. at SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center unless otherwise noted.

Among the highlights of the new season are concerts featuring renowned pianist Awadagin Pratt and Grammy-award winning violinist Augustin Hadelich, as well as four engagements with Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor Ari Pelto. Other guests include conductors Daniel BartholomewPoyser, Stephanie Rhodes Russell and Emily Senturia, pianist Parker Van Ostrand, soprano Rhoslyn Jones and opera directors Mo Zhou and David Lefkowich. Musical highlights include Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, Copland’s Suite from “Billy the Kid” and Brahms’ Violin

“Discovering Flowers” by Michelle St. Laurent

Located in a building known as “What Cheer House” at the corner of Front & K streets (102 K St.) at the Old Sacramento Waterfront and founded by Troy Carlson, the Stage Nine retail empire started humbly enough as a small, 500-square-foot gift shop in the early ’90s — then known as Old Sacramento Giftique — that specialized in model railroad products, souvenirs, Sacramento-themed apparel and unique gifts. Carlson opened the shop when he was a freshman in college at CSUS in 1991. Today, Stage Nine has expanded over time into an elabo-

Concerto. Opera will be an integral part of the season, with performances of the wildly popular and beloved Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro” and Mascagni’s gripping “Cavalleria rusticana.” The season will end with Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 in D major, “Titan,” to commemorate the SP&O’s reopening in 2015.

rate and engaging five-store footprint that takes up a combined 8,000-square-foot space with the following five retail concepts: Stage Nine Entertainment Store, G. Willikers! Toy Emporium, The Vault, The Old Fashioned Candy & Confectionery Store and California Clothiers. In addition, the newly debuted The Underground Vault event space is 2,500square feet in size and available for rental by artists, creatives and for meetings and celebrations.

For more information call (916) 447-3623 or visit stagenine.com.

Next season the SP&O is committed to performing not just the classical favorites audiences have come to anticipate, but also music by underrepresented composers. Composers William Grant Still, Jessie Montgomery and Daniel Catán will have works featured throughout the season.

“Looking at next season’s programs, it’s impossible not to feel a tremendous sense of anticipation,” said Giuliano Kornberg, SP&O executive director. “The SP&O exists to provide our community with unparalleled classical music and that is exactly what this new season will offer: dynamic, diverse music produced by exceptional talent.”

In addition to the exciting lineup of artists and programs, there is more good news for audiences. Ticket sales for 2023-24 have been so strong, with limited seats available for most concerts, that a second performance of the January 2025 concert, Beethoven, Brahms and Hadelich under the baton of Pelto and featuring violinist Hadelich has been added. Subscribers and ticket buyers will have the option to attend either Saturday at 7:30 p.m. or Sunday at 2 p.m.

Subscription packages are on sale now, with sevenperformance packages starting at $147. Single tickets will go on sale in August. For more information or to purchase a subscription visit sacphilopera.org or call (916) 476-5975.

End of life planning classes offered in Cameron Park

News release

The Reality of Our Mortality, a series of four free classes, will be held Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon April 2, 9, 16 & 23 at the Cameron Park Community Services Community Center.

People who are prepared practically and emotionally for their inevitable death say the process brings them peace of mind and inspires them to live their lives with intention and purpose. End of life planning results in getting clear about priorities whether a person has days or decades left to live.

Local instructor Ingrid Hart, a licensed Willow End of Life educator who holds a master’s degree in culture and spirituality, leads these heart-centered classes — “conversations” meant to be interactive, as students not only learn, but also share their wisdom with the group. Learn more at yourgracefulexit.com.

April 2: How to stop procrastinating with end of life planning

• Begin to identify your end-of-life planning priorities.

• Name what’s stopping you from being in action or completing your end of life planning.

• Gain some clarity about how to move forward and feel inspired to get into action.

April 9: Write your “Forever Love Letter”

• Discover how writing a lasting message can impact your relationships, here and now.

• Experience how writing a Forever Love Letter creates an opportunity to reflect and connect.

April 16: 5 steps for successful end of life planning conversations

• Increase your readiness to undertake end of life planning and other challenging conversations.

• Be guided through key steps for having successful and meaningful end of life planning conversations.

• Gain clarity about who and what matter most.

April 23: How to create and live your legacy

• Explore the concept of legacy and what it means to you.

• Reflect on your hopes and fears about your legacy.

• Discover how the way you are living now aligns with your desired legacy.

Donations are welcome and will benefit Snowline Hospice.

Courtesy photos

Emily Senturia, left, will conduct “The Marriage of Figaro,” which opens SP&O’s upcoming season. Awadagin Pratt, right, will perform Tchaikovsky.

Local soccer standout signs professional contract

Special to Village Life

When you ask any young child, “What do you want to do when you grow up?”, you normally get one of two or three responses. Almost without fail, any child that plays sports says they want to grow up to be a professional athlete.

However, with less than a 1% chance to make it to a professional level, these dreams very rarely become a reality.

But that’s not the case for local El Dorado Hills Soccer Club standout Tag Chalmers, who defied the odds by signing a professional soccer contract with USL League 1 team Fuego FC at just 17 years old.

Coached by former U.S. Men’s National Team player Jermaine Jones, Fuego FC provides Tag with invaluable coaching and mentorship. Tag, a defensive midfielder like coach Jones, has the opportunity to learn from one of the best in the sport.

“As a young player, having a living legend like Coach Jones guide me is an incredible privilege,” said Tag. “His insight into the game is better than almost anyone I’ve known who coaches or plays soccer.”

Tag’s dedication and work ethic have been key to his success. At

a young age, not many parents, let alone children, understand the level of dedication and commitment needed to make it to a professional level. According to one of Chalmers’ private coaches, Ty Downes, “Tag has an unparalleled work ethic. He has dedicated many hours a day toward improving his skills, speed, awareness and general tactics.” Tag’s family has also been instrumental in

area of responsibility to apply to attend the FBI Teen Academy held at the field office’s headquarters in Roseville.

All high school juniors, including those enrolled in public, private, charter or home school may apply by the March 22 deadline to be considered.

The spring 2024 FBI Teen Academy is a single-day

SPEAKING UP

his journey, providing unwavering support and dedication. Their support, along with Tag’s natural talent and hard work, has propelled him to this exciting opportunity.

“I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without my training, but more importantly without the love and support of my family. They have supported me on a daily basis,” Tag shared. “My dad coached me for many

years and he and my mom were my biggest cheerleaders, advocates, and mentors. They never missed a game and have supported me in every way possible to achieve my dreams. They are a major part of what helped me get to where I am today.”

Tag is excited to be a part of Fuego FC’s First Team and made his professional debut in the game against Monterrey FC on Feb. 10.

program held Friday, April 19, at the FBI Sacramento Field Office headquarters. Students chosen to attend the academy spend an informative, interactive day learning about the FBI’s investigative priorities, participating in unique, interactive experiences and engaging directly with FBI personnel.

Graduates of the course are more aware of threats their communities face, challenges presented by the online environment and the personal choices that can affect their future careers, better preparing them to mentor their peers.

Fuego FC competes in the USL Pro League 1 and its season kicked off against the South Georgia Tormenta FC in Georgia on March 9. For more information on Fuego FC visit fuegofc.com.

The United Soccer League launched USL League One in Spring 2019, targeting U.S. communities ranging in population from 150,000

to one million, representing more than 75 million people without access to a local professional soccer club. The league focuses on launching new clubs in markets with strong local ownership groups, diverse populations, vibrant millennial and strong family bases, established corporate support and suitable stadiums.

Interested students must download the spring 2024 FBI Teen Academy application from the FBI Sacramento Field Office’s community outreach web page at fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/sacramento/ community-outreach, complete and obtain signatures on all form and complete an essay as directed in application instructions.

Completed application packages must arrive at FBI Sacramento Field Office Headquarters by 4 p.m. Friday, March 22. Families do not incur any fees for the class, meals and refreshments during the FBI Teen Academy. If travel is necessary to attend the class, families must cover personal expenses.

Courtesy photos

Tag Chalmers, 17, right, who has played soccer nearly all his life, signed a professional soccer contract with USL League 1 team Fuego FC. Above, Fuego FC head coach Jermaine Jones, left, and assistant coach Edison Gonzalez pose with their new player.

Photo courtesy of Bill Tobin

The Rotary Club of El Dorado Hills hosted a speech contest earlier this month with five high school students sharing their thoughts on

level

with

student speakers. Emily Chalmers, center, repeated as the club speech contest champion.

area semi finals, where she took top honors last year. Other speakers, seen here with EDH

Club President Scott Draper, far left, and Buckeye Union School District Superintendent Dr. David Roth, far right, are, left to right: Ari Chi, Amit Jaikumar, Abhinav Arjula and William Hung.

Best Heating/AC: Gilmore Heating, Air & Plumbing

Address: 8636 Antelope North Rd., Bldg. D Antelope Phone: (866) 394-1870

Website: gilmoreair.com

the greater Sacramento and El Dorado County area since 1979. In that time, the business has grown to more than 100 employees, all dedicated to the “Get More with Gilmore” motto that promises outstanding customer service. Gilmore provides more than just heating and air conditioning services, in 2016 the business expanded to include complete residential plumbing and drain services.

Best

Website: goldenhillsschool.net

Best Assisted Living Facility: EDH Senior Care

2920

staple

A

Best Asian Food: Thai Paradise

Coming from a long line of chefs trained at international hotels in Bangkok, Chef Jarunee Fleming brings a special touch to her authentic Thai recipes. With locally sourced produce and fresh meat and seafood brought in daily, Jarunee prepares her farm-to-fork dishes with rice bran oil, making them healthy and flavorful.

“I like to make people happy with my food,” said Jarunee, and happiness abounds at the family-run eatery.

The El Dorado Hills location opened in 2019 and locals already swear by favorites such as the traditional Pad Thai, spicy Drunken Noodles and curries. Round out a meal with some Thai fried rice and iced tea and your taste buds will know they’re in

Best Bakery & Cakes: Yellow Button Bakery

Phone: (530) 676-1598

Website: yellowbuttonbakery @gmail.com

Santoro in Diamond Springs and Sweet Pairings in Placerville. You can also meet her at the farmers market in front of the Bell Tower in Placerville, June through October. Brenda also offers dairy-free and vegan choices. “My favorite things to bake are your favorite things to eat.”

Best Roofing: Nail It Roofing

Brothers Aaron and Christopher Meyer entered the roofing trade by working in all capacities — from