Issuu

I N E L D O R A D O H I L L S n DECEMBER 29, 2021

Santa’s helpers FEE REFUNDS

Christmas joy comes in the form of a check Noel Stack Managing Editor Property owners who paid the public safety facility fee on El Dorado County’s western end finally have received their refunds. In mid-December the El Dorado County AuditorController’s Office issued 1,800 refund checks as authorized by the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors earlier this year. Most of the checks are for around $230. Auditor-Controller Joe Harn and Sheriff John D’Agostini had requested that the fees be refunded in 2015 — they were charged to new devel“The homeowners got opment to fund a substation in El Dorado their money back. That Hills but that plan was is how it is supposed scrapped in favor of a new public safety facilto work.” ity in Placerville — however, Harn noted, — EDC Auditor-Controller Joe Harn it was a long and winding road to get board approval to actually refund the fees. This fee refund could be the first of several for county residents. The public safety facility fee is one of many impact fees included in the Austin vs. El Dorado County case still in litigation. In 2015 the Austins sued the county and a few special districts, alleging that the agencies violated California’s Mitigation Fee Act because they didn’t complete nexus studies on a timely basis as required by law yet continued to collect the fees. Harn informed the Board of Supervisors in writing in 2013, 2014 and 2015 of violations of the law in the levying of these building permit fees. In February of 2015 Harn and D’Agostini asked the county to stop collecting fees for a public safety facility in El Dorado Hills because the county had no plans to build such a facility and because the California Mitigation Fee Act had been violated. They also asked at that time that the fees collected be refunded. Early this year Supervisors Lori Parlin (District 4) and George Turnboo (District 2), along with Harn and D’Agostini, authored an agenda item seeking the Board of Supervisors’ authorization to send out refunds.

Courtesy photo

Shriners and Jay’s Toy Drive volunteers pose with EDH firefighters and the bikes collected during this year’s EDH Fire Santa Run. The bikes and many toys went to children served by the Northern California Shriners Hospital.

EDH Fire Department supports Jay’s Toy Drive, Shriners’ patients News release This year the El Dorado Hills Fire Department dedicated its annual, community-wide Santa Run to Jay’s Toy Drive and the Northern California Shriners Hospital. Thanks to community donations, many patients and their families had a happy Christmas morning. The family and friends of a beloved Elk Grove man who died of cancer in 2020 are keeping his memory alive by fulfilling his final wish of collecting thousands of toys for patients at Shriners Hospitals for Children – Northern California. El Dorado Hills Fire Department was able to contribute thousands of toys. “This is a beautiful way for all of us to keep Jay’s spirit alive,” said Jacob Cummings, Jay’s good friend and Ben Ali Shriner. “He would be so proud of the community support for this project.” The Cummings family and friends have helped organize Jay’s Toy Drive for the past two years. When Jay was diagnosed with cancer, Cummings asked him what he wanted his legacy to be —

something that friends and family could do to keep him in their memory and pay it forward to others in need. “He wanted to give back to kids at Shriners Hospital,” said Cummings. “This toy drive will give so many patients a happy Christmas morning, even though they are in the hospital.” The toys collected from Jay’s Toy Drive bring Christmas joy and also help replenish the inventory of toys and activities for a hospital that sees nearly 30,000 outpatient visits each year. “Toys and games help to provide our patients comfort and meaningful rewards during treatment,” said Shriners Director of Development Alan Anderson. “This donation of toys supports a big part of the Northern California Shriners Hospital Patient Experience year-round.” Jay died of stage four pancreatic cancer in 2020 and was able to participate in the very first toy drive. Since his death, two toy drives have helped collect hundreds of toys for patients at Shriners n

See DONATION, page A3

See REFUNDS, page A3

Congressional redistricting:

El Dorado County now split in two Village Life staff SACRAMENTO — The 2020 California Citizens Redistricting Commission has approved final maps for the state’s congressional districts. The new district lines were revealed last week, showing, as draft maps reflected, that El Dorado County will no longer entirely be in Congressional District 4 but divided between Districts 3 and 5. District 3 will stretch from Warner Valley in Plumas County to the north, through Nevada and Placer counties and much of eastern El Dorado County, including the Tahoe Basin, and down to Inyo County on its southernmost edge. District 5’s north end appears to be just above

Courtesy map

See DISTRICTS, page A3

Redrawn congressional district lines divide El Dorado County between Districts 3 (light pink) and District 5 (light yellow).

INSIDE NEWS VOL. 28

ISSUE NO. 52

MODERN MARVEL IN EDH

AND THE WINNERS ARE ...

This El Dorado Hills estate boasts golf course views and the finest in modern living.

FOR GUARANTEED WEEKLY DELIVERY, SUBSCRIBE BY CALLING (530) 344-5000

Village Life unveils its Christmas Coloring Contest winners.

PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 215 FOLSOM, CA 95630

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

E OAKS SENIOR CARE VILLAG

VILLAGE HOMES, B1

Brand New!

Our There’s No Place Like Home

INSIDE, B2

Where Seniors Are Family. 24/7 Assisted living that keeps residents engaged and active. • 15 Private rooms with outdoor living space. • Our smaller facility allows for personalized care for each resident. • Our on-site chef can easily accommodate any special diet needs. •

(916) 294-7685 1011 St. Andrews Dr., El Dorado Hills (2.5 miles off Hwy. 50 on El Dorado Hills Blvd.)

WHAT’S HAPPENING Blood drive Dec. 30: Vitalant will hold an El Dorado Hills Stadium 14 and IMAX Theater blood drive, noon to 4 p.m. at 2101 Vine St. The Bloodmobile will be in the parking lot. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use blood drive code SMFM486 or call Vitalant at (877) 2584825 and mention blood drive code SMFM486. Walk-ins will be accommodated if space allows.

DECEMBER 29, 2021

PEOPLE TALK

Photos and question by Sel Richard

What is your New Year’s resolution?

Monks to visit Jan. 2: The Sacred Arts Tour of Gaden Shartse Norling Monastery will return to Placerville, Jan. 2-14. Since 2001, Placerville Friends of Tibet, in collaboration with Sierra Friends of Tibet, have hosted this arts and culture tour. For a full schedule visit placervillefriendsoftibet. org.

Something MORE event

Jessica Pyne

Alisha Vaughn

Alexa Vaughn

Jenny Wu

Don Ball

El Dorado Hills

Cameron Park

El Dorado Hills

“I need to start eating better and being more healthy. I’ve used being pregnant as an excuse to eat anything I want.”

“Commit to more time outside.”

“Go and hang out with friends and family and enjoy seeing everyone without masks.”

“Spend more time with the grandchildren.”

“To ride a horse.”

STUDENT OF THE YEAR

Jan. 7: Art & Wine with Something MORE takes place virtually this year. Art sales will begin Friday, Jan. 7, culminating with a free, virtual celebration at 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 14, that will have special performances and featured artists. Meal ticket holders will receive a delicious John Sanders meal to be heated and enjoyed at home. Proceeds will benefit the Peggy DeWolf Memorial Garden Plaza.

Village Life photo by Noel Stack

The Rotary Club of El Dorado Hills and William Brooks Elementary School leaders celebrated Natalie Vernaza as Student of the Year. William Brooks Principal Noel Stedeford said Natalie “is a wonderful student.” Reading a message from one of Natalie’s teachers, Stedeford noted the fifthgrader is “strong-willed to keep moving forward” and eager to make both her peers and teachers laugh. Natalie received a plaque, illustrated dictionaries for her home and classroom and $50 from the Rotary Club. Left to right: Buckeye Union School District Superintendent Dr. David Roth, Student of the Year Natalie Vernaza, William Brooks Principal Noel Stedeford, Natalie’s mom Sylvia Vernaza and EDH Rotary Club President Kevin Loewen celebrate Natalie’s award at the Dec. 15 Rotary meeting.

Learn Italian Jan. 10: The Murer House is offering Italian language classes, beginner to advanced, either in person or via Zoom. Sessions are eight weeks in duration and begin the week of Jan. 10. For additional details and enrollment visit murerhouse.org/ language_classes.

Girls Scouts gathering Jan. 17: El Dorado Hills Girl Scouts in kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to a Girl Scouts Reunited event, 2-4 p.m. at Vintage Grace church in El Dorado Hills. The event is hosted by Troop 240 Scouts as part of their Silver Award project. Instead of ticket sales, items will be collected at the door for MJ’s Project and Vintage Grace’s new playroom. To register (required) and for more information email gsreunited@ gmail.com.

CRIME WATCH The following information was taken from El Dorado County sheriff’s reports: Nov. 24

Nov. 27

7:58 a.m. A vehicle burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Valley View Parkway. 9:50 a.m. A vehicle burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Valley View Parkway. 1:02 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Sun Poppy Way. 3:16 p.m. A vehicle burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Valley View Parkway. 6:35 p.m. A vehicle burglary was reported at an apartment complex on Valley View Parkway.

2:36 p.m. A vehicle burglary was reported on Saratoga Way. 4:45 p.m. Trespassing was reported on Old Bass Lake Road.

Nov. 28 12:23 p.m. A burglary was reported on Bothwell Circle.

Nov. 29

Nov. 25 11:28 a.m. A burglary was reported at a facility on Town Center West Way.

12:20 p.m. A battery was reported on Canterbury Circle. 1:36 p.m. A burglary was reported at a Vine Street restaurant. 1:38 p.m. Grand theft was reported at the movie theater on Vine Street. 1:41 p.m. A vehicle burglary was reported on Klondike Way. 1:43 p.m. Grand theft was reported on Montrose Way.

Nov. 26 Nov. 30

10:14 p.m. Trespassing was reported at a church on Rossmore Lane.

12:35 a.m. Trespassing was reported in the area of Beatty Drive. 10:40 a.m. A battery was reported on Tramezzo Way.

Compassion, Care, Dignity and Respect In your time of need, we promise honest, upfront pricing and will never overcharge or mislead you. We encourage you to compare our services, facilities, and fees with others and we offer pre-planning services. We have proudly served the families of Northern California for over 35 years.

895

Dignified Cremation

1720 Graveside

Funeral Service

EL DORADO

Expertise That Is Never Equaled! Peter Vlautin has over 45 years of Litigation

Experience and a Masters (LL.M.) Degree in Taxation. Member of California, Nevada, and U. S. Supreme Court Bar Associations • • • • •

Estates Trusts Probate Conservatorships Financial Elder Abuse

Funeral & Cremation Services

1004 Marshall Way, Placerville (Between Cedar Ravine & Marshall Hospital) • License #FD-2299

(530) 748-3715 ~ Call 24 hours www.PlacervilleFuneralandCremation.com Our Services can be Pre-arranged with Guranteed Prices

Peter P. Vlautin, III, J.D. LL.M. 1020 Suncast Lane #101, El Dorado Hills (916) 365-9734 • petervlautin.com California State Bar #54733 Nevada State Bar #1475

20 20 10 Time Winner

DECEMBER 29, 2021

Frazier hopes to keep surveyor seat Eric Jaramishian Staff writer Brian Frazier recently kicked off his campaign to keep his position as El Dorado County surveyor. Longtime area surveyors, including former Supervisor Jack Sweeney and Rich Briner, who once held the county’s top surveyor position, gathered in the Smith Flat House’s party room in support of Frazier. The announcement party quickly became a trip down memory lane for the tight-knit surveying group. They discussed little about the actual surveyor election. Frazier, a Diamond Springs resident, has worked in the surveying field for more than 33 years, getting his start in 1988 in the private sector before being appointed as the county’s assistant surveyor to Phil Mosbacher in April 2020. After Mosbacher’s death in June 2021,

Village Life photo by Eric Jaramishian

Diamond Springs resident and current county Surveyor Brian Frazier announces his intent to run for his current position. Frazier was named as surveyor for the remainder of the term, which ends Jan. 2, 2023. Frazier said he is most passionate about the possibilities the surveying field has to offer. “You could be mapping the ocean floor, hiking the highest mountains, go to urban cities building skyscrapers, bridges ... everything is surveyed and every day has a possibility to be different and

that is what I love about it,” Frazier said. The county surveyor is responsible for providing information on property ownership to the public and reviews all parcel maps and subdivision maps, records of surveys, compliance certificates, street names and addresses, public easement abandonment and offers of dedication to facilitate development. The county surveyor

also oversees the operation of the county’s land management information system and geographic information system teams, who create maps based on data for service to the public. During his short term so far leading the Surveyor’s Office, Frazier and his staff were instrumental in the county’s redistricting process, helping to keep geographical contiguity and integrity for all county communities and creating alternative maps for review throughout the process. “There are a lot of standards and rules we have to follow, then we have to consider input from the public and from everybody, essentially,” Frazier explained. “So we gathered all that information and we put it together as a team. Our department was the key to it all.” Frazier has lived in the county since 1999, is married and has three children.

DeVille running for county assessor when it comes to the taxpayer, he will be meticulous with Surrounded by his oversight. Jon is family and friends exactly who we want at a packed event in at the helm ensurRescue, Jon DeVille ing people are fairly announced his canassessed. And he will didacy for El Dorado fight for us when tax County Assessor at policy is debated at his campaign kickthe state level.” off event. DeVille, DeVille holds a who has been the bachelor’s degree chief fiscal officer in Business from for Sheriff John JON DeVILLE Menlo College and D’Agostini, was a Master of Business pleased to have the Administration degree from San Sheriff in attendance to help make Francisco State University. He also the announcement official. brings a unique blend of both the “Jon DeVille has been a valuprivate and public sector experiable asset to my team since 2013. ence to the race. Because of people like him, I have “As someone with experience in been able to provide top qualboth Fortune 100 companies and ity services to the people of El for our Sheriff, I pledge to bring Dorado County.” D’Agostini said. a new set of eyes to the Assessor’s “I know firsthand that Jon is very Office. I believe constant evaluagood at what he does and I know News release

tion is a must and we can always do better when it comes to protecting taxpayer dollars. Ensuring fair and accurate property assessments with a dedication to customer service will be guaranteed under my leadership.” DeVille said. The assessor position is one of only three constitutionally elected offices in El Dorado County. DeVille has laid out a platform for what he plans to bring to the office including: fiscal responsibility, care for seniors, customer service, rural representation and a fresh perspective. DeVille, an El Dorado County native and Oak Ridge High School graduate, concluded, “I am excited and invigorated at the chance to be a leader for a county I love with all my heart. It would be an honor to have my fellow neighbors vote.” DeVille resides with his wife and two boys in Rescue. For more information visit electdeville.com.

Districts

Continued from A1

Coloma, according to the commission’s final map, and from there covers Amador, Calaveras, Tuolumne and Mariposa counties, along with parts of Stanislaus and Fresno counties to the south. The change puts Georgetown, Pollock Pines, Grizzly Flat and communities near those in District 3. El Dorado Hills, Shingle Springs, Placerville and Mt. Aukum are covered by District 5. The new district lines will be in effect for the 2022 election, leaving District 4 Republican incumbent Tom McClintock and Democratic challenger Dr. Kermit Jones to decide which district they will continue to campaign for. McClintock has not yet announced his decision and Jones says he intends to run for District 3. District 4 had previously encompassed parts of Placer County clear south to Fresno County. The redistricting commission drew 52 congressional districts statewide. All districts were drawn within the permissible population deviation. View redistricing maps at wedrawthelinesca.org/ final_maps. In accordance with the California Constitution, the commission followed these criteria, in this order, to draw district maps: 1. Districts must be of equal population to comply with the U.S. Constitution.

Refunds

2. Districts must comply with the Voting Rights Act to ensure minorities have an equal opportunity to elect representatives of their choice. 3. Districts must be drawn contiguously, so that all parts of the district are connected to each other. 4. Districts must minimize the division of cities, counties, neighborhoods and communities of interest to the extent possible. 5. Districts should be geographically compact such that nearby areas of population are not bypassed for a more distant population. This requirement refers to density, not shape. 6. Census blocks cannot be split.

Donation

Continued from A1

Hospital. The number of community organizations that continue to join Jay’s Toy Drive grows every year. “We are honored to have the support of the El Dorado Hills Fire Department and the entire community of El Dorado Hills,” said Cummings. “Jay wanted the community to join together for the kids at Shriners Hospitals for Children – Northern California and he would be thrilled by the support coming from El Dorado Hills. We hope they will continue to partner with us next year.”

Continued from A1

“This took a lot longer than the sheriff and I expected, but we weren’t ever going to drop the issue,” Harn said. “The homeowners got their money back. That is how it is supposed to work.” “This should have been done years ago,” said Supervisor Parlin. “I am glad that the public is getting its money back.” El Dorado Hills homeowner and refund recipient Bill Mayer said, “I really appreciate Joe going to bat for all of us homeowners and facilitating this refund. It is apparent that Joe and Sheriff D’Agostini were ignored for years and they had to be relentless in order to finally convince the supervisors to refund these fees.” Andy Nevis, president of the El Dorado County Taxpayers Association, wrote in an email to Village Life, “The

association strongly supports these refunds to taxpayers. When government collects a fee for a project and later decides that the project is no longer needed, the appropriate course of action under state law is to return the funds as soon as possible. While overdue, we are pleased that these affected taxpayers are finally being repaid.” El Dorado Hills area property owners who paid the public safety fee from 2007 to 2016 are eligible to receive the refund. The checks in the mail not only brought some unexpected joy to property owners, but also the auditor, who noted, “Normally I get phone calls from residents with questions and in some cases complaints about their tax bills. Now I am getting phone calls from happy taxpayers saying, ‘Thank you for the refunds.’”

Roofing at its Finest Comp & Metal Roofing Replacement • Repairs • Gutters

CA LIC. #1025226

Broker Lic#01320399

Serving the Greater Placerville Area, Cameron Park and El Dorado Hills

Locally and Family Owned and Operated • 530-334-0651

Publisher Richard B. Esposito

Managing Editor Noel Stack

resposito@mtdemocrat.net

nstack@villagelife.com

(530) 344-5055

(530) 344-5073

Advertising/Distribution Ian Balentine (530) 344-5048

ibalentine@mtdemocrat.net

Multi-Media Sales Representatives: Kristi Massey Chris Jones (530) 344-5023

(530) 344-5059

cjones@mtdemocrat.net

kmassey@mtdemocrat.net

2889 Ray Lawyer Drive • Placerville, CA 95667 (530) 622-1255 • Hours: Monday through Friday 8am-5pm

Are you on Facebook? Like us! facebook.com/VillageLifeNews

LIFETIME GUARANTEE ON OUR WORKMANSHIP

Direct Repair Network

Premiere Facility

Experience You Can Trust • Eco Aware & Eco Friendly More Than Pride In Workmanship… There’s Family Pride! Family Owned & Operated Since 2001

2019

OUR PROMISE TO YOU We practice honesty, exceptional craftsmanship, have a knowledgeable staff and use eco-friendly materials. We offer you top-quality customer service and peace of mind!

Remember: The choice of body shops is yours, not your insurance company's!

God Bless Our Troops

Official Location

530.677.8731 3041 Alhambra Drive, Cameron Park www.soliscollisioncenter.com

2012 Business Of The Year

Experience You Can Trust • Eco Aware & Eco Friendly

December 29, 2021

$ KEEP IT LOCAL S h o p p i n g

l o c a l l y

s u p p o r t s

o u r

c o m m u n i t y

December 29, 2021

SOLAR + BATTERY IS NOW AFFORDABLE!

26% Solar Federal Tax Credit extended through the end of 2021

• Financing with 1.49%APR and ZERO out of pocket • 10KW solar plus 18.9KWH Battery installed for just $236 per month and see if you qualify for $17,000 in tax credits • Includes Premium US made 340 Watt solar panels and Premium microinverters each with 25 year manufacturer and labor warranty

FREE SOLAR QUOTE—One Call Could Save You Thousands!

(530) 344-3237

Celebrating

Call us to help you plan trips of a lifetime anywhere in the world!

37 years

El Dorado Hills Travel

1984-2021

ASK the EXPERTS

916-933-0476 800-963-SAIL

4420 Commodity Way, Suite A, Shingle Springs info@SolarSavingsDirect.com • solarsavingsdirect.com

3941 Park Dr., Ste 90, EDH www.edhtravel.com CST #2012537-10

CSLB # 1065773

202

(530) 642-0987 GO

sOlar!

Furnace or a/c

InspectIons

Ask us about Tax Credits on Solar!

FREE ESTIMATES - FREE 2 ND OPINIONS

Expires 12/31/21 Not Valid with any other discount offers.

No Out-of-Pocket Expense!

www.ComfortControlAir.com

CSL#759552

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Now in Stock!

Daycare and Preschool

Where Learning and Love go Hand in Hand!

Celebrating service to the community since 1999! We offer education and care for babies, Preschoolers, Pre-K, private Kindergarten. Teachers are educated in Child Development, CPR and First Aid certified, and make it a priority to continue their education. 2

020

5130 Golden Foothill Pkwy. | El Dorado Hills 916-521-1835 | www.thegiftofkids.net

25 Off

Repairs over $200!

LIVESTOCK & DEER FENCING!

WATER TANKS 300-5,000

NOW IN STOCK!

GALLON SIZES AVAILABLE!

Weed Prevention is Fire Prevention

Green Tree

Maintains Strength For Years! 1.67 GALLONS SUPER CONCENTRATE

Hours: M-F 8:30-5pm Sat 9-1pm

MAKES OVER 200 GALLONS

STOVE PELLETS

PER TON

Complete plumbing & SeptiC ServiCe! Free Estimates! We charge by the job, not by the hour.

www.domcoplumbing.com

Contractor Lic #828505

★ Helping Build El Dorado County Since 1977 ★

Placerville Glass Inc.

As a licensed Insurance Agent, I will help you every step of the way with: • Medicare Education

Call to Schedule Your Annual medicare Review • Plan Analysis & Review

• Multiple Health Plan Options • Lifetime Support & Services

Call for your No-Obligation, No-Cost Appointment

PER BAG

Elizabeth Beuttel

4600 Missouri Flat Rd. Placerville • (530) 622-2640

GO SOL AR! FOR AS LOW AS $99 MONTHLY

Already Have

(916) 353-0203 (530) 677-8832

Enroll in person – Online or over the phone

289 $630

CAL-SUN CONSTRUCTION

SOLAR?

INC.

You don’t have to make Medicare decisions on your own.

517 Main Street, #2, Diamond Springs

530-303-3366

Lic#: OF80129

YOU KNOW YOU NEED AN ALIGNMENT WHEN YOU LET GO OF THE WHEEL TO CHANGE LANES!

4 Wheel alignment

20 Off

SEE STORE FOR DETAILS

ADD BATTERY

Most cars and light trucks. Please present coupon. Not valid with any other offers. Exp 1-31-22. Sierra Nevada Tire & Wheel • 622-4714 / 748-3386

* Which one is right for your system? * Be prepared for Power shut offs

ADD PANELS

* Do you already have a True Up? * Complete system review and audit

SOLAR UPGRADE SPECIAL!!! FREE

Sierra Nevada TIRE & WHEEL

10-minute phone consultation available now!!

caLL noW

➜ (530) 683-5518 ➜ Lic#1039193

CAL • SUNCONSTRUCTION LLC

694 Pleasant Valley Road #8 Diamond Springs www.calsunconstruction.com

Pure Life Offers the Widest Selection of Cannabis in El Dorado County! Recreational Sales Coming Soon!!!

(530) 622-4714 659 Main Street, Placerville

Mountain Democra t

(530) 748-3386 6505 Pony Express Tr., Pollock Pines

22 0 01 1 09

Shop Us 24/7 • www.sierranevadatire.com

i/P NVò UPP UVò OP QJQF UP UJHIU UXJTU POF VQ, XF MM NBLF JU SJHIU w

Our caring and knowledgeable Budtenders will be happy to assist you with all your cannabis needs. Be sure to stop by on the 20th each month for vendor demos, discounts, and giveaways! Check out our full menu here: purelife.wm.store

“No muff too tuff, no pipe too tight, twist one up, we’ll make it right.”

Curbside Pickup Available

NOW OPEN FOR RECREATIONAL SALES! 651 Main Street in Placerville

Is he here yet? I can’t see him...

Offering Recreational & Medicinal Cannabis Sales!

TIME TO UPDATE YOUR WINDOWS?? Custom Frameless Shower Enclosures Featuring Vinyl Windows & Sliding Doors • • • • • •

Commercial Storefront Windows Patio Doors Cabinet Glass Mirrors Fogged or Broken Dual Pane Units • Custom Shower • Custom Shelves

• Wood Stove & Fireplace Glass • Mirrored Closet Doors

3046 chapel street, placerville One block behind Buttercup Pantry

(530) 622-7873 537 Pleasant Valley Road #2 Diamond Springs BCC Lic.# C10-18-0000090-Lic

Lic #347417

2016

2017

2018

2019

Driveline Fabrication & Balancing

2011-202

530-622-6417 • placervilleglass.com

t %SJWFMJOF 'BCSJDBUJPO #BMBODJOH t 6 +PJOU 3FQMBDFNFOU t t Y $7 4IBGUT t 5SBJMFS )JUDIFT t -POH 4QMJOF %SJWF 4IBGUT t t %JòFSFOUJBM 4FSWJDF t #SBLFT BOE 4IPDLT t $BUBMZUJD $POWFSUFST t

BCC Lic.# C10-0000090-LIC

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon-Sun: 10am – 8pm

U Joint ! Replacement • 4x4 CV Shafts Trailer Hitches • Long Spline Drive Shafts www.adcodriveline.com 530-676-1516 Differential Service • Brakes and Shocks Catalytic Converters Since 1974

4211 Sunset Lane, Ste. 109 Shingle Springs www.adcodriveline.com 530-676-1516 OPEN M-F 8am-5pm

December 29, 2021

November 18, 2021 through January 3, 2022, get a great vehicle and support a great cause. With every new Subaru purchased or leased, Subaru will donate $250 to your choice of charities that benefit your local community.** **Subaru will donate $250 for every new Subaru vehicles old or leased from November 18, 2021 through January 3, 2022, of international charities designated by the purchaser or lessee. Purchasers/lessees must make their charity designations by January 31, 2022 2021. The four national charities will receive a guaranteed minimum donation of $250,000 each. See your local Subaru retailer for details or visit subaru.com/share. All donations are made by Subaru of America, Inc. Pre-approved Hometown Charities may be selected for donation depending on retailer participation. Certain participating retailers may make an additional donation to the Hometown Charities selected.

1.9% for 48 months on Subaru, Ascents, Foresters, Outbacks and Legacies*

1.9% APR for 48 months is $21.65 per month per $1,000 borrowed for qualified buyers upon approved credit. Expires 1/03/22. 1/03/21.

Pick from over 30 Certified Pre-Owned Subarus in stock! Get CPO financing as low as 2.49% from 20 CPO’s in stock!* 152 POINT VEHICLE INSPECTION 7 YEAR 100,000 POWERTRAIN FACTORY WARRANTY CLEAN CAR FAX REPORT

No down payment required. Offer may vary by location. Other rates and payment terms available. Cannot be combined with any other coupon, direct/email offer or promotional offer unless allowed by that offer. Financing for well-qualified applicants only. Length of contract is limited. Subject to credit approval, vehicle insurance approval and vehicle availability. See participating retailers for details. Must take delivery from retailer stock by January, 03, 2021.

877-538-0407 | 8581 Laguna Grove Drive, Elk Grove CA | ElkGroveSubaru.com All prices plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document processing charge, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge. All prices good through close of business on 1/03/2022. 1/03/2021.

VH Village HOMES DECEMBER 29, 2021

Patricia Seide CalDRE #00892540 (916) 712-1617 Patricia.Seide@ cbnorcal.com

4658 Gresham Drive, El Dorado Hills 4,380 square feet 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths 0.65-acre property Listed at $1,700,000 MLS #221109125

Spectacular, modern estate in EDH

his exquisite, modern Serrano Country Club estate boasts sweeping golf course views and a resort-style backyard — as well as a new price. Stylish and sophisticated, the home’s grand foyer of gleaming granite and black tile showcases the formal dining and living rooms — both with tray ceilings, recessed lighting and French doors opening onto the balconies where the homeowners and their guests soak in the scenery. More gorgeous views can be savored from the great room, which features a wet bar with refrigerator and leaded glass cabinetry plus cozy window seats, surround sound and a gas fireplace.

Chefs will enjoy their time in the modern kitchen, which boasts a center island with a five-burner gas stove and prep sink. Multiple appliance garages ensure everything from the coffee maker to the mixer is within easy reach without cluttering the countertops. Other kitchen features include two dishwashers, built-in microwave and oven and a dining area with backyard views. The elegant main floor master suite makes single-story living easy in this two-story home. Enjoy suite amenities like ■

See GRESHAM DRIVE, page B2

REALTORS: WANT TO SEE YOUR PROPERTY FEATURED IN VILLAGE HOMES?

Contact Wesley Edwards at (530) 344-5059 or wesley@mtdemocrat.com

DECEMBER 29, 2021

COLOR THEM WINNERS Congratulations to Village Life Coloring Contest winners

“This was the ONLY place where I felt happy about Mom living.” Leigh Ann, Daughter of a CountryHouse resident

1st place

2nd place

Finnegan Loarie, 9

Brooklyn Wissman, 9

After researching more than a dozen memory care communities in the Greater Sacramento and Bay Area, Leigh Ann chose CountryHouse. “Moving Mom from home was very, very hard but so worth it! The emphasis here is on living life with dignity and as much joy as possible.” Discover care designed exclusively for those with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia in Folsom and Granite Bay.

Schedule a tour today!

3rd place Alayna Rider, 7 CountryHouse.net or 916-836-8022 Folsom: 2005 Iron Point Road, Folsom, CA 95630 Granite Bay: 8485 Barton Rd, Granite Bay, CA 95746 RCFE #342700902

RCFE #312700033

We will remain open full-time to service and maintain our clients heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality needs 5 days a week. Our technicians are avoiding typical contact with our clients, like shaking hands and staying 6 or more feet away.

Local Family Owned & Operated for Over 30 Years!

Full Service Heating & Air Company

1st place

2nd place

Berkeley, 12

Payton Martindale, 10

Each winner received a monetary prize as well as gift cards from local businesses. Thank you Cold Stone Creamery, Relish Burger Bar and Nibbler’s Popcorn.

Gresham Drive

• Air Conditioners • Maintenance Contracts • Heating & Heat Pumps • New Construction • Furnaces • Remodels • Top Industry Warranties • 100% Financing O.A.C. • We Service All Makes & Models Call for CURRENT FINANCING and rebate offers.

916-988-6137 • 530-677-1918 www.goldenaire.net SENIOR DISCOUNTS

• License #423363 • EPA Refrigerant Handling Cert.

• Qualified Duct Testing & Sealing • CF-6R Compliance Angies List Super Service Award Winner!

the sitting area, romantic fireplace and dual sets of French doors to the private balcony with golf course views. The relaxing master bathroom has dual sinks, marble tiled counters, a vanity, walk-in/ glass-block shower and a sunken spa tub. Store clothes for every season in the adjacent cedar-floored walk-in closet with custom, built-in cabinetry. Also on the main level is an office with dual desk spaces and built-in cabinetry. The office’s French doors open to the backyard, the perfect place to take a break after a few hours of work. The ground floor features a living room with a bar and secluded patio, two bedrooms with built-in desks and cabinetry that share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom, a mirrored exercise/dance room, additional full bathroom and an extended garage with epoxy floors, workshop and extensive storage space.

Continued from B1 Entertain guests or enjoy a quiet evening in the spectacular resort-style backyard with a covered loggia boasting recessed lighting and an outdoor kitchen with a granite bar. Take a dip in the gorgeous pool and spa surrounded by plenty of patio space for afternoon sunning in the private space. When the sun goes down, gather with family and friends around the fire pit. Other backyard features include multiple patio and grass areas plus a sports court. The front yard is beautifully landscaped with manicured, colorful shrubs and mature trees. Gentle steps take visitors to the dual staircases leading to the glass front door. Interested in a private tour of this beautiful Gresham Drive property in El Dorado Hills? Contact Realtor Pat Seide at (916) 712-1617 or patricia.seide@ cbnorcal.com.

Yellow Button Bakery I bake what you like!

Gluten FRee PastRies

Pies - Breads - Cakes - Scones Muffins - Cookies

Delivery Available! CALL 530676-1598

EMAIL: yellowbuttonbakery@gmail.com

On Facebook? Like us!

Village Life is on Facebook, sharing breaking news, local stories and events.

DECEMBER 29, 2021

2021

Official Ballot Cast Your Vote for the BEST... DINING

JUST FOR ME

AUTOMOTIVE

Asian Food

Brewery/Pub

Car Wash

Casino

Bakery & Cakes

Children’s Entertainment

BBQ

Dance Studio

Breakfast

Car Detailing New Car Dealer

Day Spa

Tire Dealer

Brunch

Fitness Center

Used Car Dealer

Catering

Golf Course

Coffee

Massage

PETS

Deli Dinner Fine Dining

Music Instruction/Store

Doggie Day Care

Sports Bar

Pet Friendly Business

Tanning Salon

Pet Groomer

Tap House

Pet Sitting

Hamburger

Winery

Hot Dog

Wine Tasting

Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt

Swimming Lessons

Pet Training

Yoga Studio

Veterinary Practice

Mexican Food

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

RETAIL STORES

New Restaurant

Assisted Living Facility

Bicycle Shop

Pizza

Bank

Lunch

Barbershop

Sandwich

Charitable Organization

Seafood

Pet Store

Consignment/Clothing & Other Event/Party Rentals

Chiropractor

Furniture Store

Steak

Cosmetic Surgery

Gift Shop

Sushi

CPA

Grocery Store

Taqueria

Day Care

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Dentist

Building Materials & Hardware

Financial Advisor

Mattresses/Bedding

Carpet Cleaning

Firearms Training

Shopping Center

Consignment – Furniture

Hair Salon

Toy Store

Electrician

Hearing Center

Floor Coverings Furnishings/Decor Heating/Air Conditioning

Estate Sales

Housing Development In-Home Care Services Insurance Agency Lawyer

House Cleaning Service

Mail & Shipping Services

General Contractor

Mortgage Co.

Landscape/Design Nursery/Garden Center

Orthodontist Personnel Services Physical Therapy Preschool

Painting Contractor

Private School

Pest Control

Real Estate Agent

Plumbing

Real Estate Company

Pools/Spa & Accessories Roofing Solar Company Window Treatment

Jewelry Store

Hospital

Home & Garden Accessories

Interior Lighting & Accessories

Health Food Store

2021

Real Estate Broker, Independant Title Company Travel Agency Tutoring Service Vision Center

HOW TO

1. Fill in your favorite candidate for each category. Do not list the same name more than once per ballot. 2. Include complete business name or person’s name. If you nominate an individual, be sure to include the name of the business in which they work. 3. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY. 4. Candidates must be businesses or people within El Dorado Hills & immediate vicinity.

HOW TO

A. No purchase necessary. B. Mail or drop off to: Village Life c/o Mountain Democrat 2889 Ray Lawyer Dr., Placerville, CA 95667 C. All ballots must be received by 5 p.m., Friday, January 7, 2022. D. No photo copies accepted.

VOTE: ENTER: NAME STREET CITY/ST/ZIP PHONE

DECEMBER 29, 2021 December 2021

Department of Toxic Substances Control – Our Mission is to protect California’s people, communities, and environment from toxic substances, to enhance economic vitality by restoring contaminated land, and to compel manufacturers to make safer consumer products.

THIRD FIVE-YEAR REVIEW LAKEVIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EL DORADO HILLS, CALIFORNIA

The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) is conducting the third Five–Year Review for the Lakeview Elementary School site (Site) located at 3371 Birttany Way in El Dorado Hills, California 95762. In 2003, an environmental investigation was conducted for naturally occurring asbestos (NOA) in soil at the Site. Elevated levels of NOA were found, and in October of 2003, DTSC approved a Removal Action Workplan (RAW) that outlined how the Rescue Union School District would reduce the generation of dust during school construction and reduce possible exposure from NOA soils after construction was complete. Contaminated soil was covered with “caps” to create barriers to prevent/reduce exposure to NOA soil. The caps systems for this Site include hardscape, such as parking lots, concrete, sidewalks, and/or buildings, and landscape, such as clean imported soil, grass/sod, bark/mulch and/or planter box areas. Landscape caps areas also include a geofabric (a material that resembles a thick plastic sheet) that acts as both a barrier and a marker between NOA and clean soil. After the geofabric was installed, clean soil was placed on top of it (e.g., playfields, planters, and grassy areas). Playground areas were covered with wooded bark chips on top of the geofabric barrier. The Site also has sloped areas which have been covered with geotextile barrier (a material that looks like a hair net to control erosion), ground-cover plants and shredded bark. Steeper slope areas are maintained with shredded bark and vegetation. In addition, all sloped areas are fenced off to prevent unauthorized access. Work at the Site was completed in August 2005. Previous 5-Year Inspections were completed in October 2011 and August 2016. The 5-Year inspection will help identify any changes in Site conditions or usages; changes in descriptions of any onsite construction activities; identify and review the completion of any required repairs; and other significant information relating to the caps that may have taken place over the previous five-years. The inspection will include measurement and evaluation of caps. This will include measuring the clean soil remaining over the geofabric markers that overly the NOA soils. The purpose of the inspection is to ensure that the chosen remedy is remains effective, functioning as designed and maintained appropriately by operation and maintenance activities. The current remedy must continue to be protective of human health and the environment. In addition to the inspection, there will be a review of Site reports documenting the investigations, remedy selection, and cleanup. Project documents are available at: DTSC Sacramento Regional Office 8800 Cal Center Drive, Sacramento, California 95826 Review information at www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public. If you have any questions or wish to discuss the project, contact: Jose Luevano, Tammy Pickens Project Manager, Public Participation Specialist (916) 255-3577 (916) 255-3577 or (866) 495-5651 Jose.Luevano@dtsc.ca.gov Tammy.Pickens@dtsc.ca.gov. Russ Edmundson Media (916) 323-3372 Russ.Edmundson@dtsc.ca.gov.

Ashworth next presiding judge criminal, traffic, family and civil matters as well as the El Dorado County Veterans Court. Superior Court’s Ashworth has next presiding also been appointed judge will be Hon. to serve on the Vicki Ashworth Work Group on and Hon. Michael Homelessness estabJ. McLaughlin will lished by California serve as assistant preSupreme Court siding judge. Chief Justice Tani The presiding Cantil-Sakauye in judge and assistant October of 2020. presiding judge serve VICKI ASHWORTH Prior to her career a two-year term, to as a judicial officer, commence Jan. 1. Ashworth earned a juris doctor Ashworth is the current assistant degree from McGeorge School of presiding judge to Judge Suzanne Law in Sacramento. Kingsbury, who plans to retire at Her legal career began as a the end of the year. deputy district attorney with Ashworth was elected to the El the Amador County District Dorado County Superior Court bench in 2014. Currently sitting in Attorney’s Office in 1997. In 1999 she joined the El Dorado Department 1 of the Main Street County District Attorney’s Office courthouse, she has presided over

as a deputy district attorney until her election to the bench in 2014. Judge McLaughlin serves as the presiding judge of the Juvenile Court for El Dorado County Superior Court. He was appointed to the bench by former Gov. Edmund G. Brown in 2018. Currently sitting in Department 4 of the South Lake Tahoe courthouse, he presides over juvenile, criminal, family law, civil and probate matters. Prior to his career as a judicial officer, McLaughlin earned a juris doctor degree from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles. He began his legal career working as a civil litigation attorney in the Los Angeles area before relocating to El Dorado County in 1998, where he practiced in the areas of general civil litigation and business transactions until his appointment to the bench in 2018.

Village Life staff

Garner new head of Planning, Building Eric Jaramishian Staff writer The El Dorado County Board of Supervisors named Gilroy city’s Community Development Director Karen Garner as the county’s new Planning and Building director Dec. 14. Out of 11 applicants, the 51-year-old Rocklin resident came out as the top candidate, replacing Tiffany Schmid, who applied and was chosen as the county assistant chief administrative officer last month, according to county communications and outreach director Carla Hass. Garner brings with her expertise in eco-

KAREN GARNER nomic and community development, parks and recreation, project management and leadership obtained from 25 years of local government planning and building experience having worked in various locations in California. As Gilroy’s community

development director, Garner was responsible for building, planning, housing, code enforcement, fire prevention and wastewater pretreatment. Garner served briefly as the Sacramento County Regional Parks director before working in Gilroy. According to her Linkedin account, Garner got her career start in Roseville as an associate planner. She then held the position as the town’s economic development coordinator for more than 13 years, eventually hopping to Rocklin where she worked as the Public Affairs and Economic Growth manager, the

Your Local Health Care Professionals

Hearing impaired individuals may use the California Relay Service at 711 or 800-735-2929TTY/VCD/HCO to voice.

PURCHASE • REFINANCE

FIXED RATE LOANS

2390 E. Bidwell St., Ste 400 Folsom 916-983-6211

Cameron Park (Bel Air Center) 3450 Palmer Dr., Ste 5 530-672-0151

1.875 2.15 2.375 2.52 $6.38

$3.89

Check the El Dorado Advantage:

✔ No Application Fee ✔ No Prepayment Penalty ✔ Local Processing and Servicing

Drs. Peliks & Peliks El Dorado Hills Dentists

Serving our local communities for over 60 years

EL DORADO HILLS • 3963 Park Drive • 916-933-3002 CAMERON PARK • 4060 Cameron Park Drive • 530-677-1601 FOLSOM • 300 E. Bidwell Street • 916-983-3600 SACRAMENTO • 4768 J Street • 916-454-4800 SACRAMENTO • 5500 Folsom Blvd. • 916-452-2613 CARMICHAEL • 4701 Manzanita Ave. • 916-481-0664 ELK GROVE • 9003 Elk Grove Blvd. • 916-685-3936 Maximum loan $500,000, primary residence. 20%20% minimum cashcash downdown payment on Maximum loan $424,100.00, primaryororvacation vacation residence. minimum payment on purchase. on refinance. refinance.Other Other loans available different purchase.25% 25%equity equity required required on loans available underunder different terms.terms. LOAN TERMS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

(916) 933-7401 1160 Suncast Lane, Ste. 5 El Dorado Hills www.drpeliks.com

www.eldoradosavingsbank.com Se Habla Espanol 800-874-9779

Call Elizabeth Hansen

3.1806” wide by 3” high DoVillage youLIfehave a letter to the editor?

(530) 344-5028 for more information.

Submission forms are now available online at villagelife.com/letter-to-the-editor

director of the Office of Economic Development and director of Parks and Recreation, respectively. Garner grew up in the Tulare County town of Lindsay where her family farmed oranges. She has a bachelor’s degree in public relations from California State University, Fullerton, and a master’s degree in urban and regional planning from California State University, San Jose. “When you get to this position, there is a lot of research that you do before applying,” Garner said. “One of the things that attracted me here is the people do care about what happens and I really enjoy working with the community. I will definitely be open to meeting anybody and everybody and sharing my background along the way.” Supervisors voted Garner to her position unanimously. “We are delighted to have someone of Karen’s caliber join the county and help lead the department through the current challenging issues and those that are on the horizon,” said Board Chair and District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl. “She has an excellent background, which is well suited to take on the responsibilities of this position.” At a salary of $182,062, Garner will start her position Jan. 3. “I very much look forward to working with the people in El Dorado County,” Garner said. “I see my job as being a reflection of what the community wants and their desires, and I understand that it is very different from one end of the county to the other. I look at my background and experience in working with different communities as being very helpful because each community wants and needs their own things so I look forward to bringing that here.”

Service Directory Serving El Dorado Hills

Construction

Hauling And Cleaning

Aasen Construction

Hauling & Clean ups

And Remodeling Company • New Homes • Remodels • Additions • Decks

• Complete Construction • Kitchen & Bath • Concrete

Steven Aasen www.aasenconst.com General Contractor • Lic# 626760

(530)

672-9776

— All Areas —

Large & Small jobs! Mobilehome Removal Experts! Clean, polite service

7 dayS: 8aM-9pM

(530) 409-5455

(916) 806-9741

Plumbing CL#828505

24-Hour Emergency Service! 7 Days a Week

INC.

We Charge By the Job, Not by the Hour • Residential & Commercial • Water Heater Specialist • All Pumping Repairs

(916)

• Septic Pumping Services • Drain cleaning, repiping • Trenchless Pipe Replacement

934-2440

Dominic Stone — Owner

www.domcoplumbing.com

Gutters

GUTTER GUARDS ✔ Gutter installation, cleaning and repair ✔ Roof - tile and shingle repair, cleaning ✔ Dryer vent installation, cleaning and repair FREE Estimates

916-317-2237

J. Tyler Wiese, OWNER, Contractor’s Lic #956824 www.foothill-service.com

Immediate Response!

Join the pros! Call Elizabeth Hansen at (530) 344-5028 to place your Premier Business Directory ad.

December 29, 2021

11/30/2021. 01/03/22.

DON’T LET CREDIT KEEP YOU FROM THE CAR YOU NEED! GET APPROVED IN SECONDS!

December 29, 2021

1.9% for 48 months on Subaru, Ascents, Foresters, Outbacks and Legacies*

1.9% APR for 48 months is $21.65 per month per $1,000 borrowed for qualified buyers upon approved credit. Expires 1/03/22. 1/03/21.