Village Life/Cameron Park Life, Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026
Noel Stack Editor
The Oak Ridge High School community and beyond was in shock a er El Dorado County sheri ’s o cials announced the arrest of Paul Varo last month. The band teacher directed young musicians for more than three decades and now stands accused of sex crimes against a minor.
On the morning of Jan. 26, EDSO detectives arrested Varo , who faces ve counts of oral copulation of a person younger than 18 and ve counts of sexual penetration of a person younger than 18. Varo was booked into the El Dorado County Jail, where he is being held without bail.
The El Dorado County District Attorney’s O ce led charges in the case, Varo appeared in El Dorado County Superior Court in Placerville on Monday, Feb. 2, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges. Attorney David Brooks is representing Varo , who will continue to be held in custody without bail, Judge Thomas Smith con rmed. A prepreliminary hearing is set for 1 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27, in Department 1 in Placerville.
The criminal complaint alleges that between Jan. 1 and Aug. 31, 2023, Varo engaged several times in unlawful sex acts with an unidenti ed minor at the youth’s Sacramento County home. The complaint also alleges Varo committed an act of sexual penetration against J. Doe in the defendant’s o ce at school sometime between Jan. 1 and Feb, 28, 2023, and two other alleged o enses occurred a er a birthday celebration for Varo in the summer of 2023.
The complaint further notes: “As to all felony charges in the above-entitled charging document, the People hereby further allege the following facts and circumstances in aggravation:
“Factors relating to the crime, whether or not charged or chargeable as allegations include that:
“The victim was particularly vulnerable;
“The manner in which the crime was carried out indicates planning, sophistication, or professionalism;
“The defendant took advantage of a position of trust or con dence to commit the o ense.”
Varo retired from his position at the El Dorado Hills ■
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(age 55 and older) homes and 150 non-age restricted homes, plus parks, trails and open space — is a go on former El Dorado Hills Business Park property o Latrobe Road. The 200 acres was once considered for Project Frontier, a warehouse proposal vehemently opposed by residents.
On a 4-1 vote, the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors supported the
■ See CREEKSIDE, page A7
Citing health issues that need her full attention, Cameron Park Community Services District Director Monique Scobey announced her resignation at the board’s Jan. 21 meeting.
Scobey had about 11 months le on her four-year term. She was rst appointed to her seat in late September 2017 and has lived in Cameron Park for more than 25 years.
CPCSD interim General Manager Maurice Johnson told Village Life he has enjoyed working with Scobey during his time with the district.
“Monique has been a dedicated public servant and an outstanding board member whose commitment to Cameron Park has been evident in everything she has done,” Johnson shared. “She consistently brought a thoughtful focus on nancial sustainability, the preservation and future of Cameron Park Lake and strong advocacy for the community as a whole.
Johnson acknowledged he will miss Scobey’s leadership and her “invaluable” memory.
“She was o en the rst person I called when I needed context, background or institutional memory on complex issues, and she always shared that insight generously and thoughtfully,” he said. “Her perspective helped ground discussions in both history and community values.
“Cameron Park has bene ted greatly from Monique’s service, leadership and dedication,” he concluded. “She leaves a lasting impact, and her contributions will continue to shape the district and the community for years to come.”
Per district policy, the remaining four board members will ll the vacant seat via appointment.
■ See SCOBEY, page A7
EDH Coscto draft environmental report out for public review
Noel Stack Editor
The El Dorado County Planning and Building Department – Planning Division has released the proposed El Dorado Hills Costco project dra environmental impact report.
This DEIR is available for public and agency review through March 23. The purpose of this comment period is to consider the content of the DEIR and the potential environmental impacts that may result from project implementation. Comments pertaining to the envi-
ronmental impact analysis, criteria and thresholds, mitigation measures and alternatives presented in the DEIR will be considered by the county during preparation of the nal EIR, which will include copies of the comments received during the comment period and the county’s responses to comments pertaining to the environmental review and DEIR.
A subsequent scheduled public hearing will be conducted on the project upon completion of the nal EIR when county leaders consider action on the
■ See COSTCO, page A7
Courtesy graphic
rendering shows what the proposed Costco in El Dorado Hills would look like should the county approve the
Noel Stack Editor
MONIQUE SCOBEY
Feb. 6
WHAT’S HAPPENING
The Folsom Quilt and Fiber Guild will host its Ruby Celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Folsom Community Center.
Christian Youth Theater presents “High School Musical,” Feb 6-14, at Oak Hills Church, 1100 Blue Ravine Road in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit cytsacramento.org.
Feb. 7
The Rescue Community Center will host its Crab Feed fundraiser, 5-9 p.m. For tickets and more information visit rescuecommunitycenter.com.
The Cameron Park Community Services District will host Ties and
Property taxes are due; county offers many ways to pay
El Dorado County Treasurer-Tax Collector’s O ce
El Dorado County Treasurer-Tax Collector Sean M. Coppola reminds property owners that the second installment of secured property taxes was due on Feb 1. Payments may be made without penalty until April 10. Any payment received a er April 10 will be subject to a 10% penalty as required by state law. Taxpayers are encouraged to submit payments early to avoid last-minute delays.
A change by the U.S. Postal service that may impact property owners is that the de nition of a postmark has changed. A postmark is now considered the date of the rst automated processing operation performed on the mail piece, not necessarily the date it was dropped o at the post o ce or placed in a mail receptacle. Previously, the postmark generally re ected the actual mailing date. This change means taxpayers mailing payments close to the deadline could risk being late with payments.
“It is highly recommended if making payments near the delinquency date that taxpayers take the envelope to a post o ce counter and request a manual postmark from the clerk,” TreasurerTax Collector Sean Coppola advised. “This service is free of charge.”
“Property owners may submit payments by mail, in person at our counter, through secure drop-o bins located inside and outside the building or online using credit cards, debit cards or e-checks.”
— El Dorado County Treasurer-Tax
To pay online or to nd answers to the most frequently asked property tax questions, access the website at eldoradocounty.ca.gov/Services/My-Property/Pay-YourProperty-Taxes. Taxpayers can also view or print copies of their tax bills from this website.
“The Treasurer-Tax Collector’s O ce o ers a variety of convenient options for paying property taxes,” Coppola added. “Property owners may submit payments by mail, in person at our counter, through secure drop-o bins located inside and outside the building or online using credit cards, debit cards or e-checks. We introduced last year several new services, including pay-by-phone and text/email payment reminders with direct links to pay.
“If I may o er a word of caution: when paying online by e-check, submit these payments at least 10 business days before the delinquency date,” he continued. “If the originating bank rejects the payment for any reason, it can take several days for us to receive the noti cation and then notify you. Submitting e-check payments early ensures you have enough time to resubmit payment if a settlement error occurs.”
LATE LENNAR AD
Collector
Sean M. Coppola
IN CAMERON PARK
Wildfire-prepared neighborhood open
KB Home marked a milestone in Cameron Park on Jan. 22 with the unveiling of Stone Canyon, a new housing development designated as the first wildfireprepared community in Northern California and only the second of its kind in the state.
The limited collection of single-story homes has achieved the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety’s Wildfire Prepared Home Plus designation at both the individual home and community levels. The designation recognizes developments that incorporate research-based design standards intended to reduce wildfire risk before fires ever reach structures.
Stone Canyon was a project led by the
Each residence includes noncombustible exterior materials such as stucco siding and fiber cement board, class A fire-resistant roofing, dual-pane tempered windows, enclosed eaves, emberresistant vents and covered gutters. The homes also feature a 0- to 5-foot Zone 0 buffer around each structure, landscaped with crushed rock instead of combustible materials.
“The data tell us that outcomes are shaped long before the fires ever reach homes,” IBHS President and CEO Roy Wright said. “We’re not going to stop the next ignition necessarily, but there are ways to narrow the paths of destruction so homes and neighborhoods can be survivable and insurable again.”
Wright said post-fire investigations consistently show that embers igniting materials within 5 feet of a structure are one of the leading causes of home loss. At Stone Canyon, those risks are addressed at both the home and neighborhood scale, including spacing between structures of up to 20 feet and analysis of surrounding fuel loads.
“This has to function as a system,” Wright said. “Wildfire isn’t isolated to a single home.”
County and state officials emphasized the broader implications for El Dorado County, which remains a high fire hazard severity zone and continues to recover from the 2021 Caldor Fire.
“These homes are the future of the state of California,” District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo said, noting that
Join the county civil grand jury
News release
Serving on the El Dorado County Civil Grand Jury is one of the most direct ways a resident can strengthen local government — without running for office. Each year, 19 community members are appointed by El Dorado County Superior Court to serve a oneyear term (July 1 through June 30), acting as an independent, citizen “watchdog” over county agencies, cities and special districts.
What is the civil grand jury (and why it matters)
California’s civil grand jury system exists to improve how local government works: it can investigate operations, accounts and records, inspect correctional facilities, review allegations of misconduct and publish public reports with findings and recommendations. Those reports trigger required responses from the agencies involved, creating a structured pathway for transparency and follow-through.
For the community, that translates into something rare: a nonpartisan, evidence-based process that can spotlight
inefficiencies, identify weak internal controls, and recommend practical fixes — often long before problems become expensive crises.
What you’ll actually do
Recent El Dorado County Grand Jury work illustrates the range and impact of these investigations:
• Election administration and ballot security: The 2024–25 jury published a report focused on voter rolls and drop box security — an example of the jury examining systems and processes that affect public trust.
• Road maintenance and service delivery: Another 2024–25 report examined county road conditions and how the county responds to maintenance concerns — an issue frequently discussed by residents online and in local letters to the editor.
• Public safety operations: The jury also reviewed 9-1-1 Central Dispatch, looking at performance and staffing pressures in a high-stakes public safety setting.
• Special district governance and
hundreds of homes were lost in recent fires and many residents struggled to rebuild due to high insurance costs.
“I hope the state will adopt this program to reduce our fire insurance costs, especially in highfire zones like El Dorado County,” Turnboo said.
Cal Dire Deputy Director of Community Wildfire Preparedness and Mitigation Frank Bigelow said developments like Stone Canyon demonstrate how mitigation efforts can protect lives, property and first responders.
“These efforts aren’t just important; they’re essential,” Bigelow said.
“Home hardening and defensible space can reduce wildfire destruction by up to 50%.”
Well-designed communities allow fire crews
Obituary ~ You may write the tribute in your own words or if needed we can provide assistance. Obituaries will publish on the day requested, subject to publication deadline.
Anniversary Remembrances ~ You may place an ad in memory of a deceased loved one on the anniversary of a significant date such as a birthday, wedding anniversary, or the anniversary of their death.
Let us help you pay tribute to a loved one. When you experience the loss of a loved one, our Village Life team can help you convey information in several ways! Call Elizabeth Hansen for more information 530-344-5028
Chris Woodard Staff writer
Sacramento Division President of KB Home Nam Joe.
Village Life photo by Chris Woodard
KB Home Sacramento Division President Nam Joe cuts the ribbon at Stone Canyon in Cameron Park last month.
“I’ve
Tips for Talking With Your Loved Ones About Assisted Living.
We all want the best for our aging parents. When we start to notice changes in their daily routines, like di culty with household tasks, missing meals, or isolation, it may be time to start talking about Assisted Living. By approaching the topic with compassion and openness, you can help ease the transition and make it a collaborate, positive experience for everyone.
The following tips can guide conversations with family members to help determine whether Assisted Living might offer the supportive environment needed for a safer, more comfortable lifestyle.
Choose the Right Moment: Find a calm, quiet time when everyone is relaxed and free from distractions. Express at You Care: Start by a rming your love and concern. Emphasize that your goal is to ensure their comfort, safety, and happiness.
Be Honest and Empathetic: Share your observations gently, focusing on the bene ts of additional support rather than on any limitation.
Listen Actively: Encourage them to share their feelings and concerns. Validate emotions and be patient with their responses. Provide Information: Share details about the community, such as the quality of care, activities available, and testimonials from others, if available. O er to tour a facility together to see rsthand what’s available.
Reassure eir Independence: Let them know that Assisted Living is designed to support their independence rather than take it away.
Take it Step-by-Step: Frame the conversation as the beginning of an ongoing discussion, rather than a nal decision. is allows time for adjustment and further exploration together.
Ponté Palmero is here to help your family through the process.
and guitarist Emmaline O’Rourke.
Greg
Oak Meadow students feel the rhythm
Shelly Thorene Staff writer
East Coast acoustic Gypsy jazz ensemble Rhythm Future Quartet performed tunes such as “Only A Paper Moon” and “Jango’s Tiger” for a rapt audience of children ages 8-11 at Oak Meadow Elementary School in El Dorado Hills on Jan. 26.
The group’s founder, award winning violinist Jason Anick, told students the quartet plays music in the style of jazz legend Django Reinhardt and French jazz violinist Stéphane Grappelli, founders of the Quintette du Hot Club de France, and are influenced by jazz out of New Orleans. Many hands went up when Anick asked the children if they had heard of Louis Armstrong and also when asked if they play a musical instrument.
In a Q&A session after the 20-minute concert, each musician talked about their background in music including trying out several musical instruments before settling on guitar, violin or stand-up bass. Anick told the pupils the musicians met at a Gypsy jazz music camp and the group enjoys touring and sharing their music with others.
The event was sponsored by the El Dorado Community Concert Association, whose student outreach program brings live, interactive musical performances to engage, enrich and educate K-12 students on the Western Slope of El Dorado County during the school day on their campuses at no cost to the schools.
Three concerts remain in the season and tickets are offered at a discount. For more information go to eldoradocommunityconcerts.com.
El Dorado Transit expanding its bus routes
News release
El Dorado Transit will add two commuter runs to its Sacramento Commuter service. A total of eight trips will occur effective Feb. 9, in both the morning and afternoon. Buses will run in 20-minute intervals, except for the last AM and PM run, which will be 40 minutes. Effective Feb. 7, El Dorado Transit will also extend local route 25 Saturday Express, with trips from Pollock Pines Safeway to the Iron Point Light Rail Station in Folsom. The improved 25 Saturday Express
will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and include 11 total runs. This is in addition to the local routes connecting the communities of Pollock Pines, Camino, Placerville, El Dorado, Diamond Springs, Cameron Park, Shingle Springs, El Dorado Hills and Folsom that operate Monday through Friday.
Eskaton Lincoln Manor, Safeway Plaza (Missouri Flat Road) and Prospector’s Plaza bus stops will now be serviced by the 25 Saturday Express, and 35 Diamond Springs Saturday will no longer operate. For complete route information visit eldoradotransit.com.
AL-ANON is here for you if you are bothered by someone else’s drinking. Call for meeting times. (916) 3342970. https://sacal-anon.blogspot.com
AMERICAN ASSOC. OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN Foothills of EDC Branch. Our mission is to advance gender equity for women & girls. Science and Math Camp Scholarships, programs & interest groups. Leave voicemail for Laurel (530) 417-7737 or Sara (530) 4177138 eldorado-ca.aauw.net
CAMERON PARK NEWCOMERS
CLUB meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 at the Light of the Hills Lutheran Church, 3100 Rodeo Rd., CP, 95682. New and current local community members are welcome for fun and games throughout the month. For further information contact Jill Butler at 530-295-7448.
El DORADO COUNTY AMATEUR RADIO CLUB Dedicated to all aspects of ham radio. Meetings held on the third Tuesday of each month at the El Dorado Sheriff’s office, 200 Industrial Drive, Placerville, 6:30 pm. Visitors and non-hams welcome. Info at www.edcarc.net
PLAY CRIBBAGE
Join the Gold Country CribbersWe Play - We Teach - We Have Fun Wednesdays 4:00 PM Gilmore Senior Center 990 Lassen Lane, El Dorado Hills, CA 916-212-2465 or 916-768-4452
Struggling with life? CELEBRATE RECOVERY is for any Hurt, Habit or Hang-up. We are a faith-based recovery program for life’s issues and struggles. Join us Thursday nights at 6:30pm at Green Valley Church, 3500 Green Valley Rd, Placerville. Doors open at 6:15pm. Children’s programs are available for ages 3 months to 18 years old. Email: celebrate@greenvalley.church. Find us on Facebook: https://m.facebook. com/crgvcc/
DEMOCRATS – Come meet with the United Democrats of El Dorado County at Round Table Pizza–Missouri Flat Rd. in Placerville at noon on the 3rd Thursday of the month. Call (530)391-6414 or see edcdems.org for more information.
GOLD RUSH CHORUS now welcomes both men and women to share the joy of singing four-part harmony in the barbershop style. To learn more or to book a performance,
call Howard at (530) 647-6513 or Kent (530) 651-3575
HANGTOWN WOMEN’S TENNIS CLUB. Come play tennis for fun and friendship. Meet at El Dorado High School, Acacia Street, Placerville, Wed 9 AM – 11 AM. (June - Aug 8 AM –10 AM). Social activities, lessons. Minimal cost. Not a beginners group. Some tennis experience/ability required. Call Monica 530-306-7066. MONDAY CLUB BRIDGE seeks more players. The club is a very informal, friendly group and invites interested men and women party bridge players to join. The club meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month at Denny’s Restaurant on Fair Lane in
Village Life photo by Shelly Thorene
Rhythm Future Quartet founder and award winning violinist Jason Anick, left, responds with a smile to questions from Oak Meadow Elementary School students after the Gypsy Jazz group’s performance on Jan. 26. Left to right, violinist Jason Anick, guitarist Henry Acker, bassist
Loughman
high school at the end of the 2022-23 school year; however, according to a statement released by the El Dorado Union High School District, the suspect has since “periodically worked with the district in a limited support role.”
“Because this is an active law enforcement investigation, we have no additional information beyond what has been publicly released,” the EDUHSD release states.
“The safety of our students is our highest priority,” the message continues. “We are taking these allegations seriously and are working closely with the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office. While it is not known at this time whether the allegations involve a student from our district, we are taking all appropriate steps to protect our school community. The district will continue to cooperate with law enforcement as more information becomes available.”
EDSO officials note this is an ongoing investigation. Anyone who may have information for the case or know of any other potential victims is asked to contact Det. Katz at katzt@eldoradosheriff.gov or (530) 642-4716.
to allocate resources more effectively during emergencies, improving firefighter safety and response strategy, Bigelow added.
Maintenance of the wildfire-prepared standards will continue after residents move in. Homeowners will work through the homeowners’ association to ensure requirements are upheld, including maintaining the 5-foot defensible space. Annual documentation will be required to retain the designation.
IBHS leaders said Stone Canyon also serves as a model for future housing development in wildfireprone regions.
“What’s been done here shows you don’t have to sacrifice beauty to reduce risk,” Wright said. “This was baked into the design from the very beginning.”
Following the ceremony, attendees participated in a ribbon-cutting and guided tours highlighting the design features that earned Stone Canyon its wildfireprepared designation. Stone Canyon can be found on Voltaire Drive in Cameron Park.
PG&E offers additional bill relief to customers
Paul Moreno PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company is commit-
ting $50 million in 2026 to help customers pay overdue energy bills through its Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help and Match My Payment programs.
PG&E is expanding REACH benefits this year. Eligible customers can receive up to an $800 bill credit, an increase from up to $300 last year, if they have received a disconnection notice.
Match My Payment matches eligible customer payments dollar-for-dollar, up to $1,000. Payments must be at least $50 toward a past-due balance of $100 or more. Customers can receive multiple matches during the year. A disconnection notice is not required for customers to qualify.
REACH recipients are also prequalified for up to $1,000 on a past-due balance through Match My Payment, for a combined benefit of up to $1,800 while funds last.
Eligibility for both programs is based on federal income guidelines. For example, a family of four earning less than $128,600 may qualify for the Match My Payment program, which has higher income limits than the REACH program.
In 2025, the two programs provided approximately $23 million in assistance to over 64,000 customers.
“We receive heartfelt messages from our customers every day about how much these programs mean to
Grand Jury
finances: Grand jury scrutiny has extended to local districts, including an investigation into the El Dorado Irrigation District, later referenced in public updates and community discussions.
• Airport operations: The grand jury forced the county to address a hazardous situation at one of the two local airports, allowing the airport to continue night operations and reducing liability risk in a timely fashion.
• Community attention and discussion: When the 2024–25 final report was released, it circulated widely in community social media spaces — an indicator that residents do pay attention and that reports can shape public understanding and agency action.
Workload, environment and skills
them. These stories remind us of the real impact our programs have on the lives of our customers and we are committed to continuing to make a difference,” said Vincent Davis, chief customer officer and senior vice president, Customer Experience.
Both programs are funded by PG&E and provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Other programs
PG&E has other assistance programs to help income-eligible customers pay their energy bills:
• California Alternate Rates for Energy program: provides a monthly discount of 20% or more on gas and an average of 38% on electricity (compared to non-CARE bundled customers).
• Family Electric Rate Assistance program: eligibility guidelines provide a monthly discount of 18% on electricity regardless of household size.
• Low Income Energy Assistance program: a federally funded assistance program overseen by the state that offers a one-time payment up to $1,500 on past due bills to help low-income households pay for heating or cooling in their homes.
• Arrearage Management Plan: a debt forgiveness plan for eligible residential customers.
• Energy Savings Assistance program: provides energy-savings improvements at no charge.
Other programs include Medical Baseline, which offers a reduction on energy bills for customers who depend on power for certain medical needs. Visit pge.com/billhelp to learn more.
guidance suggests eight-plus hours per week, while the Superior Court notes the commitment can range from 12-20 hours per week, often spread over two or three days (with chairs and the foreperson doing more). The work environment is professional, team-based and structured around confidentiality and careful fact-finding. Desirable skills include: critical thinking, investigative curiosity, strong writing, sound judgment, diplomacy in interviews and the ability to work well with others.
Why apply?
Happenings
A
Grand jury work is collaborative and hands-on. Jurors attend a weekly plenary meeting plus committee meetings and spend additional time interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, conducting site visits/inspections and drafting reports. The county’s own
If you care about how El Dorado County runs — roads, elections, public safety, special districts or transparency — grand jury service lets you contribute in a uniquely constructive way: by turning citizen concerns into documented findings and workable recommendations. Apply at: eldorado.courts.ca.gov/ system/files/forms-and-filings/application-serve-jurorcivil-grand-jury_0.pdf or bit.ly/4502fL5.
that
Dr.
Tiaras from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Cameron Park CSD Assembly Hall. For more information visit cameronpark.org.
Feb. 10
World Ballet Company presents “Swan Lake” with a live orchestra, 7 p.m. Feb. 10 & 11 at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter. net.
Feb. 11
SIR — Gold Country branch meets the second Wednesday of the month at the Cameron Park Country Club. Check out the club and be a guest for a complimentary lunch. Contact Branch 95’s membership chairman at SIRBranch95@gmail.com for more details.
Feb. 13
Imagination Theatre at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents “The Quest for Don Quixote” Feb. 13 through March 8. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.
Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents Jim Brickman at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.
Feb. 14
Folsom Lake Symphony presents A Night for Romance, 7:30 p.m. at Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net
Feb. 15
Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents Peppa Pig: My First Concert at 1 p.m. For tickets and more information call (916) 6086888 or visit harriscenter.net.
Feb. 17
Harris Center for the Arts in Folsom presents “The Book of Mormon” Feb. 17- 22. For tickets and more information call (916) 608-6888 or visit harriscenter.net.
Another advantage of keeping his practice small is that, because he sees that come up. He is also able to really almost always early or on time,” said so they’re usually early or on time for
Dr. Stanec is located at 3955 Cameron Park
Feb. 18
El Dorado Hills Town Center will host its Town Center Connect Mixer at Barrel and Bliss from 4:30-6:30 p.m. For more information visit edhtowncenter.com.
Feb. 19
The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce will host its Business Luncheon with speaker Assemblyman Joe Patterson from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Kota Buffet in Red Hawk Casino. For more information visit eldoradocounty.org.
The El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce will host its Installation & Business Awards Dinner from 6-9 p.m. at Serrano Country Club. For more information visit eldoradohillschamber.org.
Feb. 20
The Sierra Renaissance Society presents Senior Health, a presentation by Marshall staff, 1-3 p.m. at the Mother Lode Lions Hall, 4701 Missouri Flat Road in Diamond Springs. Admission is free for members; public is invited to attend two meetings for free. The Sierra Renaissance Society of El Dorado County is dedicated to lifelong learning and hosts presentations and workshops throughout the year. For more information visit srsedc.org.
Now
Folsom History presents Metal as Medium through Feb. 28. An art exhibition showcasing works from the California Blacksmith Association. Learn more at folsomhistory.org.
The Mom Walk, Sip and Stroll meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at the El Dorado Hills Town Center amphitheater. It’s a great way to get active with other local moms.
EDH Cars and Coffee invites car people to meet up and hang out Saturdays, 7-9:30 a.m., rain or shine, in the right-side parking lot of the Regal movie theater in El Dorado Hills Town Center. The motto is “If it rolls, it goes.”
The El Dorado Hills Town Center Farmers Market takes place on Saturdays in the amphitheater near Brickyard & South Fork. Stop by 9 a.m.
Stanec.
Photo courtesy of EDSO
A law enforcement officer walks with Paul Varoff at the EDSO public safety facility in Placerville.
Taxpayers advised on USPS postmark updates, filing deadlines
SACRAMENTO — The California
Franchise Tax Board is alerting taxpayers and tax professionals to recent updates to the United States Postal Service transportation procedures that may a ect postmark dates on mailed tax returns, payments and other timesensitive correspondence.
E ective Dec. 24, USPS implemented a nal rule adding Section 608.11 to the Domestic Mail Manual, clarifying that machine-applied postmarks will generally re ect the date mail is rst processed at a regional facility rather than the date an item is dropped o at a local post o ce or mailbox. Under this new system, the postmark date may occur days a er a taxpayer deposited mail with USPS, potentially causing mailed lings to be untimely.
Per the USPS website:
“... [W]e have made adjustments to our transportation operations that will result in some mailpieces not arriving at our originating processing facilities on the same day that they are mailed. This means that the date on the postmarks applied at our processing facilities will not necessarily match the date on which the customer’s mailpiece was collected by a letter carrier or dropped o at a retail location.
As before, a customer can ensure that a postmark is applied to his or her mailpiece, and that the date on the postmark matches the date of mailing, by visiting a Postal Service retail location and requesting a manual (local) postmark at the retail counter when tendering their mailpiece. Manual postmarks will be applied free of charge.”
“The recent USPS changes highlight the importance of knowing how your return will be postmarked when submitting it by mail,” said State
project. The county must certify the nal EIR prior to project approval.
The DEIR determined that the proposed project would result in signi cant and unavoidable tra c impacts, both at the project level and cumulatively. There are no feasible mitigation measures available to reduce these impacts to a less-than signi cant level, the report notes.
The study did determine that all other CEQA topics, project and cumulative impacts — air quality; biological resources, cultural resources; geology, soils and paleontological resources; greenhouse gas emissions and climate change; hazards and hazardous materials; noise and vibration; tribal cultural resources; and wild re and evacuation — can be mitigated to lessthan-signi cant level.
The proposal includes an approximately 165,000-square-foot Costco warehouse retail center with a tire center and customer parking (above and below ground) on the south side of Silva Valley Parkway on approximately 17.63 acres. The Costco gas station with 32 fueling positions and employee
residential project pitched by Sacramento-based Winn Communities.
District 3 Supervisor Brian Veerkamp made the motion, which was seconded by District 2 Supervisor George Turnboo, to:
1. Certify the nal environmental impact report and adopt the California Environmental Quality Act ndings of fact and statement of overriding considerations and the mitigation monitoring and reporting program;
2. Adopting the Creekside Village Speci c Plan – reduced impact alternative based on the ndings and the scal impact analysis;
3. Approve a rezone to apply zoning proposed with the Creekside Village Speci c Plan;
4. Adopt an amendment to the El Dorado County General Plan;
5. Approve the tentative subdivision map based on the ndings and subject to the conditions of approval;
6. Approve the scal impact analysis;
7. Adopt the public facilities nancing plan; and
8. Include as a condition of approval a requirement that the developer disclose to potential homebuyers the existence of an industrially zoned property located to the south of the project, as well as disclose that the school district owns adjacent land and the potential for future development of a school next to the project.
District 1 Supervisor Greg Ferrero and District 5 Supervisor Brooke Laine joined Turnboo and Veerkamp in supporting Creekside Village. District 4 Supervisor Lori Parlin voted no, expressing her preference that the proposal return to the El Dorado County Planning Commission for further consideration of alternatives.
“Are we just attracting more people from the Bay Area up?” Parlin asked, pointing out county leaders have discussed at length how to help the next generation of county residents purchase their rst homes here.
“I don’t think this project does that,” she said.
Ferrero agreed that he would prefer to see a project that attracts more young families to the county but also noted the stress local school
districts would face if more of the development wasn’t age-restricted. He also warned, if the board rejected the project, another warehouse-style proposal could pop up in the coming years.
“Realizing that it’s not perfect, and I wish we had di erent circumstances, but I think this alternative is better than many other alternatives,” Ferrero said.
“I think the developers went overboard trying to make something work here and this is the best they can come up with,” Veerkamp said, agreeing with his fellow supervisors’ comments.
The project received mixed reviews from the public at the board meeting. Supporters include dozens of residents in the adjacent Blackstone and Heritage communities, the El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce, El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce, El Dorado Hills Town Center, El Dorado Hills Area Planning Advisory Committee and Latrobe School District.
“The support from so many community members and organizations was very powerful, and instrumental in securing project approval. We’re grateful to everyone who took time to be a part of the process,” stated George Carpenter, vice president of Winn Communities, in a news release.
El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Debbie Manning noted at the hours-long board meeting the last housing project approved in the community was the apartment complex in EDH Town Center.
“No project is ever perfect but this one comes remarkably close,” Manning said, commending the developer for working collaboratively with the community, listening to concerns and making adjustments.
“This project addresses a real need in a thoughtful and responsible way.”
EDH resident John Knight, a former District 1 supervisor who has 45 years of experience in the commercial real estate business, o ered his support from a di erent perspective — best use of vacant land. He noted the di culty in developing the El Dorado Hills Business Park is not from a lack of marketing but due to location. “El Dorado Hills Business Park is at the
Controller and FTB Chair Malia M. Cohen. “Under the new system, a mailed return may not be postmarked until it reaches a processing facility, which may be days a er drop-o . To help taxpayers avoid late lings and penalties, I strongly encourage e- ling whenever possible, and recommend requesting a manual postmark at a USPS retail counter if ling by mail.”
To avoid a late tax return, tax payment, or other lings, FTB strongly encourages taxpayers to consider e- ling and making e-payments if possible.
For those who must le or pay by mail, taxpayers can help ensure they le or pay on time by visiting a USPS retail counter and requesting a manual (local) postmark, obtaining a postage validation imprint, certi cate of mailing, using Certi ed Mail or Registered Mail with documented proof of mailing date.
As a reminder: To avoid penalties, be sure to pay any taxes owed by April
parking would be constructed on the north side of Silva Valley Parkway on approximately 3.29 acres. A tra c light will be installed on Silva Valley Parkway at the main entrance to both the store and gas station.
The remaining Costco-owned property on the north side of Silva Valley Parkway — once slated for an apartment complex and commercial/retail project — will remain vacant and likely be sold, according to project proponents.
All written public and agency comments on the DEIR must be received by 5 p.m. on March 23.
Comments should be directed to:
County of El Dorado Planning and Building Department – Planning Division
Attention: Cameron Welch
2850 Fairlane Court, Placerville, CA 95667
Include the name of the contact person of your agency, if applicable. Comments may be submitted via email to EDHCostco@edcgov.us. Comments submitted via email must either be included in the body text of the message or as an attachment in Microso Word or Adobe PDF format. Comments may also
end of the cul-de-sac. You have to bypass Rancho Cordova and Folsom, which have plenty of land and plenty of space for you to develop on,” Knight shared. “That’s part of the problem. Of course, PG&E doesn’t help either.”
It will take decades by Knight’s estimation to build out business park property at its current pace, which is why he said he supports Planning and Building sta recommendations to approve the housing development.
But not everyone was convinced a rezone is the best option. Noting the Board of Supervisors’ goal to bring more jobs to the community, EDH resident Linda Campbell said additional senior housing is not necessary, especially if it requires rezoning property that could bring new industries to the community.
“Keep in mind that Heritage, Carson Creek are still not fully built out, let alone some of the other developments,” Campbell told the board. Heritage and Carson Creek are 55-plus communities. “I submit that the priorities of the county should be facilitating jobs for our residents and this rezone will no longer a ord that opportunity.”
What the project will do, con rmed El Dorado County AuditorController Joe Harn, is generate revenue for the county’s General Fund and Road Fund. “So if you want more money to ll potholes or if you want to hire a couple more deputy sheri s,
15. Mailers should allow extra time for postmarking and delivery to avoid penalties, interest, or processing issues that could arise if postmarks do not align with statutory deadlines.
File and pay taxes online
For faster service, take advantage of FTB’s 24/7 online self-service options. To e- le your California tax return, visit CalFile, which allows most Californians to e- le their state tax return for free.
FTB o ers several payment options. You can pay your taxes with your checking or savings account using Web Pay, by credit card (fees apply) or set up a payment plan if you qualify (fees apply). For more information on ling options and important tax deadlines visit b.ca.gov or consult your tax professional.
be delivered in person to the Planning and Building Department at the address listed above. A meeting to answer general questions regarding the Costco project and the environmental process will be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the Cameron Park Community Center assembly hall, 2502 Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. Written comments may also be submitted at this public meeting.
approving this project will help you with this,” he said.
Winn Communities designs and delivers master-planned communities and has entitled more than 30,000 homesites throughout the Sacramento region and Nevada. The developer has completed several projects in El Dorado County and has made signi cant contribution to community parks and the Cameron Park Library.
Additional project information is available at creeksidevillage-edh. com.
Local stakeholders commit to safe schools and strong communities
Over the last three years, the El Dorado County O ce of Education has steadily strengthened and re ned a robust threat assessment process designed to prevent targeted acts of school violence before harm occurs. This work is grounded in a simple but powerful belief: school safety depends on preparation, collaboration and early intervention.
Through the continued growth of its multidisciplinary threat assessment team and sustained partnerships with local agencies, EDCOE remains committed to keeping schools safe while supporting students through thoughtful, ethical and coordinated responses.
That commitment was on full display on Friday, Jan. 23, as EDCOE hosted its most recent threat assessment event.
The session re ected a reality facing schools nationwide today: emerging threats are not always obvious, and understanding them requires more than surface-level awareness. In many cases, threats are shaped by rapidly evolving online cultures, coded language and copycat behavior — factors that can blur the line between provocation and credible intent.
The day opened with welcoming remarks from Carey Buchanan, EDCOE’s director of Charter Alternative Programs, who has been leading the county’s threat assessment work for the past three and a half years.
The event then continued with opening remarks from key county leaders, including El Dorado County Sheri Je Leikauf, District Attorney Vern Pierson and EDC Superintendent of Schools Dr. Ed Manansala, who addressed the educators and community partners in the room.
“Today gives us the opportunity to step back and look at the bigger picture, to strengthen our partnerships and sharpen our practice,” said Manansala.
“This work allows us to focus on what we can do — how we can prevent a major crisis before it happens, and how we can stay centered on what matters most: our children,” he continued. “It takes many thoughtful, beautiful minds working together to prevent harm, to care for our students and to protect our schools.”
The program began with expert insights from special guests Efrain Antonio Beliz Jr., Ph.D., and Nicolas Rafael Beliz, Psy.D., who presented on threat assessment, risk assessment and risk management. The father-son duo is recognized for their depth of experience and contributions to the eld.
Following their presentation, participants engaged in a deep exploration of
the culture and language shared by many perpetrators of targeted violence, including how past shootings, anniversaries, ideological blending and symbolism can in uence individuals preparing for an attack. The training examined K-12 and higher education case studies from Los Angeles County, helping participants better recognize the warning signs, patterns and behaviors that can signal movement toward violence.
One of the most critical themes throughout the day was how to di erentiate between those seeking attention and those determined to cause harm.
Understanding that distinction can lead to more e ective interventions and, ultimately, prevention.
The training emphasized practical strategies and real-world application, including:
• Interventions and ethical considerations
• Interviewing strategies with individuals of concern
• Approaches to engaging families and gaining buy-in for support
• Analyzing written communications and warning behaviors
• Multidisciplinary coordination between education, mental health, law enforcement, and families
Participants also explored one of today’s most complex challenges: differentiating severe mental illness from extreme overvalued beliefs, which may play a role in lone-actor targeted violence. These distinctions can shape the type of support and responses deployed and in uence safety outcomes for school communities.
As technology continues to evolve, so do the tools and platforms that can contribute to risk. The presentation addressed emerging trends across online platforms, developing technologies and gaming spaces, highlighting how some individuals have recently used devices and digital environments for harmful intentions.
At its core, the Jan. 23 event reinforced that violence prevention is not the responsibility of any single person or agency. It is a shared e ort — one built on communication, expertise, trust, and coordinated action.
The learning objectives for the day re ected this collaborative focus, supporting participants in strengthening their understanding of:
• The roles of mental health professionals, school o cials and law enforcement
• How and when to share information on high-risk situations
• Warning behaviors such as coded language, key anniversaries and copycat costuming
• Evidence-based approaches to intervention with individuals and families
Whitney Burke El Dorado County Office of Education
The Gift of Kids, Inc.
Jennifer Tommasini
5130 Golden Foothill Parkway
El Dorado Hills 916-521-1835 • www.thegiftofkids.net 2nd Location
5041 Robert J. Mathews Pkwy., Suite 200 El Dorado Hills
I would like to thank everyone entrusting us with your precious children since 1999. I love being part of this community and helping children learn and grow. With 4 children of my own (now 27, 24, 15 and 14), my own journey began in the daycare preschool field because I was unhappy with the care and education I was receiving.
I have been blessed to have a large facility in El Dorado Hills where I employ 50 loving teachers and care for 300 children. We offer education and care for babies, Preschoolers, Pre-K, and private Kindergarten, before and after school. Don’t be fooled by our large size, our teachers make each classroom homey and warm. The kids have lots of outdoor space
to play, we are on over an acre and have 4 large playgrounds, a soccer field, and an organic garden.
The Gift of Kids outdoor area gives the kids space to explore, garden, and play on age appropriate playgrounds.
The teachers at The Gift of Kids Daycare and Preschool include talent that brings us music, yoga, and even Spanish on a daily basis. We have been working with soccer shots for over 7 years and have a very structured and advanced curriculum! Teachers here are all educated in child development, CPR and First Aid certified, and make it a priority to continue their education.
The Gift of Kids Inc. is celebrating 26 years in
business, with 16 years in our same location, Business Park 1. We could not have done it without the many wonderful families here in the community that I have called home for over 20 years! Again...Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me live out my dream in a business that I love and families that continue to bless us with their children. We have newly renovated the inside of our school, so come by to check it out and say hello anytime!
V illage H omes
5001
Lisa Paragary CalBRE #01196924 (916) 247-1303
lisa@paragarymillerteam.com.
4,122 square feet
6 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms
0.698-acre property
Listed at $2,899,999 MLS #226002342
Private EDH home stuns in Serrano
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a true six-bedroom, 5.5-bath residence that lives primarily as a single story, located within the guarded gates of Serrano Country Club in El Dorado Hills.
This exceptional home offers an ideal blend of luxury, privacy and functionality on an expansive greenbelt lot with seasonal creek views.
The main level features a luxurious primary suite retreat complete with a fireplace, direct access to the pool and spa and a spa-quality bathroom showcasing a soaking tub, lighted mirrors, separate vanity area and a customdesigned walk-in closet.
Also on the main level are spacious secondary bedrooms, thoughtfully designed living spaces and a beautifully oversized laundry room with windows for natural light and a built-in craft/desk area. The heart of the home is the dramatic great room and chef’s kitchen, highlighted by soaring ceilings, striking architectural lighting and a floor-to-ceiling fireplace. An expansive wall of glass doors creates seamless indoor-outdoor living and entertaining.
The kitchen is exceptionally appointed with stainless Thermador appliances, including a built-in refrigerator, and is complemented by a scullery prep kitchen offering addi-
tional storage, wine refrigerator, a Scotsman ice maker, second dishwasher and an additional full size refrigerator. This kitchen is an entertainer’s dream.
Upstairs, a private and remote guest suite provides a living room, wet bar with a beverage refrigerator and sink, ensuite bath — an additional flex/bonus space that is ideal for extended stays, multigenerational living or a private retreat. The backyard is a true sanctuary, featuring a resortstyle pool and spa, expansive loggia with outdoor kitchen, fireplace and TV — all set in a massive, private rear yard offering serenity and natural beauty.
Additional property highlights include owned solar, Control4 home automation system and a two attached, twocar garages with epoxy floors. Serrano is one of El Dorado Hills’ prestigious luxury neighborhoods with an award-winning golf course, country club, trails and immaculate landscaping. The gated community is close to shopping, restaurants, great schools and Highway 50.
Interested in this beautiful Greyson Creek Drive property in El Dorado Hills? Contact Lisa Paragary at (916) 247-1303 or lisa@paragarymillerteam.com.
Love through the ages – a timeless musical journey
“Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.”
– Aristotle
Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, and the Folsom Lake Symphony is offering the most romantic evening imaginable. A Night for Romance will fill the Harris Center with lush sound on Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m. This is a concert that’s expected to sell out quickly.
It’s not just a concert. It’s an auditory journey through the many ways composers have expressed love across centuries. The audience will experience the exotic romanticism of Alexander Borodin, the 19thcentury elegance of Tchaikovsky and Mendelssohn and the rich, jazz-kissed lyricism of Gershwin in the early 20th century. The FLS conductor and music director Maestro Peter Jaffe has curated a program that reminds us that while the style of romance may change, the emotion behind it does not. It is always hopeful. It is always yearning. Just like music.
Let’s take a closer listen.
Exotic & enchanting
American soul
Alexander Borodin (1833-87) composed his Polovtsian Dances in the 1870s as part of his opera “Prince Igor,” which premiered posthumously in 1890. This colorful suite of dances evokes images of Central Asia with driving rhythms, haunting melodies and warm orchestration.
Originally written to portray the fierce and noble Polovtsian people, the music’s romantic sweep and lush texture offer something far more intimate. The melodies feel timeless. You may recognize one of them (“Stranger in Paradise”) from the Broadway musical “Kismet” (1953). In this performance, the music becomes a vivid dream. One full of longing and movement.
George Gershwin (1898-1937) composed his Broadway musical “Porgy and Bess” in 1935. Blending jazz, blues and classical traditions, this landmark American work tells a love story that is raw, vulnerable and deeply human.
Three selections from this work will be performed: “Summertime,” “I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin’” and “Bess, You Is My Woman Now.” Joining the symphony are soprano Tiffany Townsend and bass-baritone Cedric Berry, two nationally acclaimed vocalists known for their emotionally rich interpretations. Townsend brings brilliant clarity and warmth to every note she sings. Berry’s commanding voice and deep connection to character make him a
Foundation hosts Mardi Gras fundraiser
The Oak Ridge High School Foundation hosts its annual Blue & Gold Gala, Mardi Gras, a night filled with excitement, entertainment and opportunities to support Oak Ridge High School students on Feb. 21. Organizers hope to raise more than $100,000. A special emphasis of this year’s fundraiser is “From Books to Brilliance,” an incredible opportunity to support the renovation of the high school library into a state-of-the-art student union. The foundation wants to fund improvements that include upgraded seating, study areas, diverse resources and access to modern technology to foster collaboration and learning. For more than 20 years the ORHS Foundation, a
community-driven organization dedicated to supporting and enhancing Oak Ridge High School, has fostered the success of students through collaboration, fundraising and volunteer efforts. To date, the foundation has raised and donated more than $2 million into programs and projects that elevate the education experience for all students.
The Mardi Gras theme will be featured throughout the event including themed cocktails at the no-host bar, Cajun infused food, raffles as well as silent and live auctions. Dress in your Mardi Gras outfits and invite friends, neighbors and family — 21 and older — to the event scheduled 5-10 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Folsom Community Center, 52 Natoma Street, Folsom. Parking is free. For tickets and more information visit orhsf.ejoinme.org/blueandgoldgala.
Susan Laird The Arts
Courtesy photos
Captivating voices of romance. Soprano Tiffany Townsend and bass-baritone Cedric Berry bring star power and heartfelt emotion to the Folsom Lake Symphony’s Valentine’s Day concert. The acclaimed vocalists will perform iconic selections from George Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess,” sharing timeless love songs that promise to stir the soul.
Plants,
trees
and
vines
with heartshaped leaves
To celebrate Valentine’s Day, here are some plants, trees and vines that have heart-shaped leaves and might do well in your yard.
The Viola sororia, the common blue violet, is a happy perennial that prefers part shade, but can stand full sun. It will grow in any type of soil and seems to endlessly produce sweet heartshaped leaves. The plant freely self-seeds and spreads. It can be easily divided and planted between larger plants so you can enjoy the brilliant blue flowers in different places in your garden. Very popular in our area is the deciduous Western redbud tree, Cercis occidentalis Its heart-shaped leaves announce autumn in beautiful fall colors. It blooms pink flowers up and down its branches in spring.
PRESERVE IT! GROW FOR IT!
The Meyer lemon
Laurie Lewis UCCE Master Food Preserver
ICyclamen produces green, silver-gray-green or speckled heartshaped leaves from bulb-like corms. These plants are often for sale in November and December when they are in bloom with its unusual-looking white or pink flowers. Enjoy its color indoors and then plant it outside in bright indirect sun for next Valentine’s Day. The Quaking aspen, Populus tremuloides, is a rapid growing tree, 20-80 feet tall, with white to light gray bark. Its lovely yellow and golden leaves flutter and rustle in our foothill breezes.
Common morning glory, Ipomoea purpurea, is either a prolific twining vine or shrub depending on how you treat it. The purple and blue
flowers are showy against the Valentine greenery. Prune the plant to control its rapid and vigorous growth and to cut out any frost damage.
The Lucky Country Cold Hardy eucalyptus, Mountain Swamp Gum, Broadleaved Sally, all known as Eucalyptus camphora, have the typical green-gray eucalyptus leaf color but is in the shape of a heart. The tree is an evergreen that can grow to 30 feet in any type of soil. It flowers white in the summer. It is native to Australia and likes a wetter environment.
Creeping oxalis, Oxalis corniculata, is a deciduous low-growing perennial, which produces a threeleaved clover that resembles a heart. It grows daisy-like flower clusters. Keep an eye on this one too as it can easily spread.
A deciduous perennial that prefers shade is the Hosta ‘Heartsong.’ It grows large heart- shaped leaves green with cream edges. Beware of snails and slugs.
The Catalpa is a tall fast-growing tree with large sweetheart leaves and white orchid-like flowers in late spring. Both the northern, speciosa, and southern, bignonioides, Catalpa grow well here.
Dutchman’s pipe vine, also known as the California pipe vine, Aristolochia macrophylla, is a native deciduous vine with purple striped pipeshaped flowers and green heart-shaped leaves. It grows from a rhizome and can spread out as far as 20 feet in open areas. The two-lobed, truelove shaped leaf of the Ginkgo tree, Ginkgo biloba, the Maidenhair tree or Maidenfern tree, likes full sun and can grow in most soils. It is a hardy deciduous tree with deeply cracked brown bark.
Happy Valentine’s Day! For more information about UC Master Gardener classes, events and garden resources visit mgeldorado. ucanr.edu. Also available on the website are the hours and activity information for the Sherwood Demonstration Garden: ucanr.edu/sites/ EDC_Master_Gardeners/ Demonstration_Garden. Have a Gardening question? Use the “Ask a Master Gardener” option on the website or call (530) 6215512.
n 1901 Frans Meijer, from the Netherlands, came to the United States. Once here, he changed his name to Frank Meyer and soon found work with the USDA exploring China, as well as Korea, Manchuria and Siberia, looking for plants that would be useful in America. He collected and sent back scions of numerous fruit trees, as well as grasses, pines, roses and more. The lemon tree we now know as the Meyer lemon was grown and tested in Chico, and found to be hardier than most lemons and produced a high yield.
Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic, with a light floral (think lavender and bergamot) undertone. They are a perfect winter fruit to brighten up any meal. This recipe comes from “The All New Ball Book of Canning and Preserving,” 2023. It is a twoday process and worth the effort.
Cut 1 pound of Meyer lemons and the two regular lemons lengthwise into quarters and place in a 6-quart stainless-steel pot. Add 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 1 hour and 30 minutes or until lemons are very soft and liquid is syrupy, pressing lemons to release juice. Remove from
standout on stages from Los Angeles to New York. Together, they bring Gershwin’s soaring melodies and heartfelt lyrics to life. Songs that speak not only of romance, but of resilience and hope.
Classic celebration
Felix Mendelssohn (1809–47) composed his Wedding March in 1842 as part of his incidental music for Shakespeare’s famous comedy, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The piece became a wedding tradition when Crown Princess Victoria, Queen Victoria’s eldest daughter, used it in her 1858 royal wedding to Prince Frederick William of Prussia.
With its familiar fanfare and joyful energy, the Wedding March has accompanied countless brides down the aisle.
heat, cover and let stand at room temperature overnight. While quartered lemons are simmering, quarter remaining Meyer lemons lengthwise; remove seeds and cut crosswise into very thin slices. Place in a 6-quart stainless-steel pot. Add remaining water (just enough to cover lemon slices). Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; cover and let stand at room temperature overnight.
Pour lemon quarters mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pot containing lemon slices, pressing with the back of a wooden spoon to extract as much juice as possible. Discard solids. Add sugar and lemon juice to lemon slices and extracted juice. Bring to a
But hearing it in concert, performed live by a full symphony, brings new dimension and grandeur to this classic. It becomes more than a march. It becomes a declaration.
(No need to stand up to look for a bride walking down the aisle when you hear the opening fanfare. This isn’t Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.”)
Passion and tragedy
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-93) first composed his “Romeo and Juliet Overture-Fantasy” in 1870 and completed its final version in 1880. Inspired by Shakespeare’s enduring tragedy, this orchestral work traces the entire arc of the lovers’ story. From solemn beginnings to a devastating end.
The opening hints at doomed destiny. Violent musical clashes represent
rolling boil over high heat; reduce heat to medium and cook, uncovered, stirring often, 45 minutes or to a gelling point. Meanwhile, prepare boiling-water canner or atmospheric steam canner. Heat cleaned jars in canner until ready to use, do not boil (simmering water at 180 degrees F). Wash lids in warm soapy water and set aside with bands.
Ladle hot marmalade into a hot jar, leaving onequarter-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary. Clean jar rim. Center lid on jar. Apply a band and adjust to fingertip tight. Place the jar in the canner. Repeat until all jars are filled.
Water must cover jars by at least one inch in boiling water canner or come to the base of the rack in a steam canner. Adjust heat to medium-high, cover canner, and bring water to a rolling boil in a boilingwater canner or until there’s a steady stream of steam coming from the steam canner for 1 minute. Start timing and process pint jars: 10 minutes at 0-1,000 feet elevation, 15 minutes at 1,001-3,000 feet, 20 minutes at 3,001-6,000 feet, 25 minutes 6,001-8,000 feet.
Turn off heat. For boiling water canner, remove lid and let jars stand for five minutes. For atmospheric steam canner, let canner sit undisturbed for five minutes, then remove lid. Remove jars and cool on a toweled surface for 12-24 hours. Check lids for seal (they should not flex when center is pressed). Label, date, and store in a cool dark place.
The UC Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County are a great resource for answers to food safety and preserving questions. Email edmfp@ucanr.edu. For more information about programs, events and recipes visit ucanr.edu/sites/mfp_of_cs. Find the group on Facebook, too (UCCE Master Food Preservers of El Dorado County).
the feud between the Montagues and Capulets. Rising above it all is one of the most iconic love themes in the classical repertoire. A sweeping melody full of longing and tenderness. Listen for the leitmotif of the lovers’ beating hearts as the tension builds and releases. This is erotic music. Right up to the end where we hear two pulses, slowing. Then stopping. Together. It is haunting. It is beautiful. It is unforgettable.
A night to remember
Each piece in this program reveals a different face of love: joy, simplicity, longing, tragedy. Together, they form a picture of how love has been understood and expressed across time.
The concert takes place at the Harris Center, located on the campus of
Folsom Lake College. The venue is known for its exceptional acoustics and welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect setting for this evening of music and meaning. You can find tickets and event details at folsomlakesymphony But don’t wait too long. A Night for Romance is one of the Symphony’s most popular programs this year. And this year’s combination of talent, timing, and repertoire is especially powerful. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening out, treating yourself to something beautiful, or introducing someone you love to the wonder of live symphonic music, this concert offers a memory that will linger long after the last note fades.
After all, love waits for no one.
Send your event for consideration in Susan’s column to slaird@handywriting.com. Continued from
Smith
Master Gardener of El Dorado County
Pixabay image
Western redbud is one of many plants that produce heart-shaped leaves. In spring, the tree also produces pink flowers.
Laird
Nashville Songwriters Live shares stories behind favorite songs
Hands4Hope – Youth Making a Difference News release
FOLSOM — The legendary music of Nashville returning to Folsom for the third year with Nashville Songwriters Live: Performances and Stories of Your Favorite Hit Songs, a one-night-only concert experience on Feb. 27, benefiting local nonprofit Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference.
The evening at Harris Center for the Arts will showcase a unique blend of fullband performances, stripped-down acoustic moments, and compelling storytelling that offers the audience a behind-the-scenes look at some songs and stories that shaped modern music.
This year’s lineup includes three-time Emmy Award winner Greg Barnhill, a celebrated songwriter whose work has been recorded by legendary artists such as Etta James, Martina McBride and Jessica Simpson. Barnhill’s background vocals can also be heard on more than 10 albums by Tim McGraw. Joining him is Morgan Myles, a top-three finalist from NBC’s “The Voice.” Returning for a third year is hit songwriter CJ Solar, known for writing chart-topping songs for some of country music’s biggest names. Also returning is singer-songwriter Mark Mackay, who brings dynamic musicality, high-energy performances and memorable stories from his life touring and opening for stars worldwide.
In addition to the featured Nashville artists, the event will highlight special performances by local up-and-coming musicians and stu-
dents, including featured local talent Cynthia Renee.
This fundraiser will support Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference. The proceeds from this event will be used to help those most vulnerable in the community while teaching youth invaluable life skills of leadership and service.
“Since 2008, Hands4Hope youth have delivered meals, toiletries, clothing and supplies to those struggling while gaining skills they can take with them for life,” said Jennifer Bassett, Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference’s founder and executive director. “This exciting fundraising event will help us expand our reach to meet growing community needs, while providing a unique and memorable family entertainment experience.”
Additionally, a silent auction available to both concertgoers and anyone online will offer guitars signed by the performers, a Nashville vacation, a private bourbon tasting party and other exciting offerings, with all proceeds benefiting Hands4Hope.
Nashville Songwriters Live begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27, at the Harris Center, 10 College Parkway on the Folsom Lake College campus. Tickets are available online at harriscenter.net or call the box office at (916) 608-6888. For more information visit hands4hopeyouth.org/nashvillelive.
Hands4Hope – Youth Making A Difference is a nonprofit, youth-driven organization with the mission to inspire and empower youth in leadership and service. For more information visit hands4hopeyouth.org or call (916) 294-7426.
CJ SOLAR
GREG BARNHILL
MARK MACKAY
CYNTHIA RENEE
MORGAN MYLES
Buckeye Elementary houses resource closet for students, families
Buckeye Union School District
News release
The Resource Closet at Buckeye Elementary School in Shingle Springs is part of a broader family support effort within Buckeye Union School District, created in partnership with ASPIRE Kids and strengthened by the ongoing support of parent volunteers and community donors. Buckeye Elementary School is proud to share the continued success of this on-campus, community-driven initiative, which provides essential items to help students and families thrive in school and beyond.
The Resource Closet was launched through a collaborative effort with ASPIRE Kids, with special thanks to Jodi Mottashed, Buckeye Elementary Principal Kevin Cadden, and Family Engagement Liaison Regina Helmer. Through ASPIRE Kids’ HandsON! program, the partnership has helped bring meaningful, handson support directly to the Buckeye campus. Since its start, the Resource Closet has grown thanks to the generosity of parent volunteers and donations secured from businesses, organizations, and neighbors throughout our wonderful community. While the giving spirit is especially visible during the holiday season,
the need for essential resources continues all year long, and this program is here to meet those ongoing needs with compassion and care.
The Resource Closet is available to all Buckeye Elementary students and their families and is stocked with a wide range of items, includ-
ing clothing and shoes, school supplies, personal hygiene items, and snacks and food items. All items are provided free of charge and dis-
tributed discreetly to protect student privacy and dignity. Families may visit the Resource Closet directly or work with school staff to have items sent home confidentially. No qualifications or paperwork required and no questions asked.
“While it’s wonderful to see our community come together during the holidays, it’s just as important to recognize that needs don’t end when the season does,” said Cadden. “The Resource Closet allows us to support our families year-round and ensure every student has what they need to feel confident and ready to learn. I love that other members of our school community have also taken upon themselves to solicit donations from local business partners as well. It’s made a big difference for some of our families.”
Buckeye Elementary extends heartfelt thanks to ASPIRE Kids, parent volunteers, staff, and community partners whose generosity and commitment continue to make a lasting difference for students and families. For details or to learn about accessing or supporting the Resource Closet, contact the Buckeye Elementary office.
Battle of the Badges simmering to support Snowline Health
Snowline Health
Snowline Health, in partnership with the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, announces the sixth annual Battle of the Badges – 911 Chili Cook-Off, a beloved community fundraising event bringing together first responders and the public in support of compassionate end-of-life care. The event will take place 4-8 p.m. on Feb. 28 inside the Forni Building at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville. Tickets are available at the door or online.
Founded in 2018, the Battle of the Badges has grown to include participation from more than 22
first responder agencies across El Dorado, Placer and Sacramento counties, including law enforcement, fire and emergency services. Teams compete for top honors by serving their best chili to attendees and celebrity judges. Proceeds from the event benefit Snowline Health, supporting essential services such as palliative care, veterans’ services and grief support for families. These programs provide comfort, dignity and support to individuals and families during some of life’s most challenging moments.
The event also features 20 vendors, a silent auction (where you can bid online even if you’re not attending), live entertainment, music, kids’ activities, raffle prizes and opportunities for community members to
engage directly with the first responders who serve them every day. The 2026 event will be emceed by Mark S. Allen of ABC10.
“The Battle of the Badges is about more than chili,” said Laurie Heyman, co-creator of the Battle of the Badges and philanthropy development director of Snowline Health. “It’s about honoring our first responders, strengthening community bonds, and ensuring compassionate end-of-life care remains available for patients and families when they need it most.”
Community members are encouraged to attend, bid, taste and support this impactful event. For tickets, sponsorships or more information visit givebutter. com/c/BOB2026 or 911chili.org.
Teens to deliver special donations
M Communications News release
Norcal Gift From the Heart Foundation is preparing for its largest Valentine’s Day Drive yet, with more than 3,500 handmade Valentines and an anticipated 1,500 toys and teen items collected for children’s hospitals across the country.
Founded in 2024 by Aislynne Hartman, a senior at Oak Ridge High School, and Sophia Alonso, a junior at Ponderosa High School, Norcal Gift From the Heart Foundation was created to encourage youth-led philanthropy while focusing on children and teens facing medical challenges. What began as a small local effort has grown into a multi-county initiative involving dozens of
schools and over 3,000 student volunteers working together to spread kindness.
“This year’s response has been amazing,” said Hartman. “Seeing thousands of handmade cards filled with encouraging messages from students of all ages reminds us how powerful simple acts of kindness can be.”
The majority of the Valentines and donated items will be delivered to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Sacramento, but due to the overwhelming number of cards collected this year, the foundation will also send overflow Valentines to Marshall Hospital in El Dorado County and Oklahoma Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma, extending the impact of the drive beyond California.
In addition to supporting pediatric patients, Norcal Gift From the Heart Foundation is expanding its mission again this year through
an intergenerational giving initiative. In partnership with AARP and Wish of a Lifetime, the foundation will help deliver more than 500 roses to senior centers across Sacramento and El Dorado counties, ensuring older adults also feel remembered and valued on Valentine’s Day. The initiative connects student volunteers with community elders and reinforces the importance of compassion across generations.
“We never want cards to go to waste,” Alonso shared. “Knowing that we are supporting children and seniors makes all the hard work worth it.”
Norcal Gift From the Heart Foundation accepts donations and volunteers year-round. For more information or to get involved visit Norcalgiftfromtheheart. org or follow Norcal Gift From the Heart Foundation on Facebook and Instagram.
Courtesy photo
Regina Helmer, Jodi Mottashed and Kevin Cadden, left to right, hold on to some of the great items available to Buckeye Union School District families at the resource closet.
George Wheeldon and geology of El Dorado
El Dorado Gold 1848
The Post Discovery Center at 515 Main St. in Placerville is preparing to debut the completed George Wheeldon Mineralogy Exhibit beginning in February.
The Post is home to El Dorado Gold 1848, a nonprofit that has been restoring and reimagining the historic 1940 WPA Post Office building as a community space, museum — including exhibits celebrating the geology of the region — and a research library.
Prior to his passing in 2023, Wheeldon met with representatives of 1848 and was enthusiastic about plans to convert the original walk-in vault into a secure mineral exhibit.
With plans in place, 1848 received a grant from the Latrobe Fund to support the vault project.
“We had told George Wheeldon we wanted to name the vault after him. We just wish he could have seen it completed,” said Jill Kearney, the group’s secretary. “I took geology classes from George, like so many others, and learned so much history on so many levels from him. He was excited about sharing that knowledge every day of his life. We hope to be able to rotate collections that he would have found exciting.” The Post will open its doors for five
Peppa Pig and friends introduce kids to the beauty of classical music
FOLSOM — Get ready to “splish splash” in muddle puddles because Peppa Pig and her family (including her new baby sister Evie) are on their way to the Harris Center in Folsom on Feb. 15.
Under license from Hasbro, a leading games, IP and toy company, this fun and interactive classical music experience introduces children 18 months of age and older to the magic of a live orchestra concert.
In Peppa Pig: My First Concert, families will see Peppa Pig, along with Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, George and baby sister Evie, learn all about the different sounds that instruments make together. Family audiences will enjoy some of their favorite music from the show played by a live orchestra and discover some other exciting orchestral pieces perfect for children. Plus, some little ones will be invited to join Peppa and her family to make music of their own.
Peppa Pig: My First Concert includes
orchestral renditions of popular songs from the animated TV series, such as “The Peppa Pig Theme” and “The Bing Bong Song,” along with classical pieces like “In the Hall of the Mountain King,” a selection from “The Nutcracker” and other selections by composers such as Beethoven and Mozart.
“Peppa Pig has always inspired kids to explore the world with curiosity and joy, and My First Concert brings that same spirit to the stage,” said Matt Proulx, senior vice president of Global Experiences, Partnerships and Music at Hasbro. “As the show tours the U.S., it will introduce countless children to the thrill of a live orchestra — a joyful first that families can share together.”
Peppa Pig: My First Concert is produced by London-based Fierylight in collaboration with Hasbro.
Harris Center for the Arts is located at 10 College Parkway on the Folsom Lake College campus in Folsom. For tickets and more information visit harriscenter.net/peppa-pig or call (916) 608-6888.
California Museum exhibit highlights local African American history
Danielle Wood
California Museum
SACRAMENTO — The California Museum will recognize Black History Month in February with two immersive history experiences designed to highlight African American contributions to California and Sacramento. Throughout the month, the museum will offer a Black History Month Self-Guided Tour from Feb. 1-28. Refreshed with new tour stops, the self-guided experience highlights themes of resilience, activism, democracy and community while exploring African American individuals, movements and organizations featured in the museum’s signature and temporary exhibits. Designed for visitors of all ages, the tour allows guests to explore at their own pace. Digital and print maps with marked focal points are avail-
able with paid museum admission. A digital version of the map is available at CaliforniaMuseum.org/BlackHistory.
In addition, the museum will host Where They Walked: Black History Walking Tour on Feb. 7. This free, members-only walking tour takes participants through Sacramento’s central city to explore the stories of prominent African American families and individuals who helped build community in the city’s earliest Black neighborhoods during the 19th and 20th centuries. The tour focuses on the historic M Street corridor, now Capitol Avenue, and nearby streets, examining how redevelopment and the construction of Interstate 5 erased significant cultural and historical sites.
Museum members may reserve a spot for themselves and one guest by emailing membership@californiamuseum. org.
Video contest brings scholarship opportunity to high schools
News release
The National Special Districts Association is promoting its sixth annual scholarship contest for high school students, encouraging young people to engage with local government and strengthen their civics education. The scholarships are awarded through a student video contest operated as part of the association’s public awareness campaign, “Districts Make the Difference.”
High school students in grades 9–12 are invited to submit a short video, 60 seconds or less, highlighting the essential services provided by special districts across the United States. There are more than 30,000 special districts nationwide, delivering services tailored to local community needs. These include fire districts, water districts, mosquito abatement districts, recreation and park districts, cemetery districts and others. At the end of May, Districts Make the Difference will award $2,000 to the first-place winner, $1,000 to the second-place winner and $500 to the
third-place winner. An additional $500 will be awarded to the student’s chosen teacher for each winning video.
“This scholarship fosters an awareness of local government at a young age and encourages students to gain an understanding of the essential services special districts provide in their communities,” said NSDA Vice President Frank Stratton.
NSDA President Ann Terry said the program continues to grow each year, attracting increased participation. “Special districts play a vital role in delivering essential local services to communities nationwide,” she said. “As high school students enter adulthood, we are honored to offer this scholarship that encourages a greater understanding of the structure of local government.”
Students can visit the Districts Make the Difference website to view past video submissions and learn more about contest guidelines. The video submission period runs through March 31, 2026. More info is available at districtsmakethedifference.org/video-contest.
special days this spring and plans its first mineral display to include presentations from local historians and geologists, mining maps, historical photographs of local mines and activities for children. For the event, the El Dorado County Historical Museum has offered the loan of the Charles Bishop mineral collection, much of which has not been displayed publicly in more than a decade.
Event dates are Feb. 7 & 21, March 7 & 21 and April 4, 1-4 p.m. One presentation will be held each day at 2 p.m. Presenters include El Dorado County Geologist Brandon Badeker; geologist and anthropologist Rich Dvoracek; historian Jill Kearney; Mark Dayton of Brass Medic and the Gold Country Treasure Seekers club; and historian and archivist Dee Owens.
“The Post is definitely a work in progress,” said President Sue Taylor. “We are very grateful to the Latrobe Fund and the El Dorado Museums Foundation for the grants we have received to make our progress possible and appreciate the support of our community. We are excited to share our milestones as they come around.”
For more information visit edg1848. org.
Village Life file photo
The mineralogy exhibit is named after George Wheeldon, a legendary figure in El Dorado County education who had a knack for developing lasting relationships with students. Wheeldon is seen here in 2017 with a 7,000-pound piece of snowflake obsidian found south of the Mono-Inyo craters that he brought home from a field trip.
Community service, business leadership take center stage
Andrew Vonderschmitt
Staff writer
Community lead-
ers, small businesses and longtime volunteers were honored at the Shingle Springs-Cameron Park Chamber of Commerce Awards and Installation luncheon hosted at the Koto Buffet at Red Hawk Casino, recognizing contributions that organizers said help keep El Dorado County “a vibrant and thriving area to live and work.”
The Jan. 22 event opened with the Larry Cameron Award, named for the founder of Cameron Park, celebrating “vision, leadership and commitment to growth.” This year’s honoree was Carole Perusse, a chamber founder and director emeritus.
Chamber President Colette Thiel credited Perusse as a “proud and staunch supporter” whose efforts helped the organization endure challenging years.
Perusse, now retired and living at Ponté Palmero, thanked the crowd and reflected on her many years of involvement, saying she has always tried “to be the best for all of you.”
Paul Burke of Burke Insurance Services was named Ambassador of the Year for recruiting several new members and energizing chamber activities.
“Your enthusiasm, your hard work and ability to bring people together have been instrumental in strengthening our chamber family and our chamber mission,” noted Thiel.
The Public Service Award went to Marshall Hospital.
“Your unwavering commitment to bringing top notch medical care to our communities, along with innovative ideas make a huge difference for countless people in our community and our businesses,” said the chamber president.
Thiel then shared a personal story about the care her mother received during a terminal cancer battle, calling the hospital’s staff “amazing” and expressing gratitude on behalf of both her family and the business community.
President and CEO of Marshall Medical Siri Nelson said the organization strives to put “patients in the center of everything that we do,” acknowledging that while it is not always perfect, it works hard to support the community, staff and providers.
In the business categories, Bre Bertolino, owner of My Bestie’s Closet, received the Startup Business of the Year award after expanding her consignment and retail shop from one unit to two in her first year. Speakers praised her rapid growth, her role in employing local youth and her recognition as Business of the Month for California Assembly District 5.
A new Home-Based Business of the Year category debuted with Angela Honoroff of Mary Kay Cosmetics as its first recipient. A chamber member for more than 25 years, former board member and past ambassador chair, Honoroff was recognized for her longevity, loyal clientele and sustained involvement.
The chamber president also introduced a new President’s Award, created to honor exceptional impact and personal support. The inaugural award went to Amber Jaurequi, a key volunteer and close friend who helped keep chamber operations running during the president’s family crisis and her own family hardships.
The ceremony concluded with the Business of the Year Award going to Wally’s Pizza Bar, a family-owned restaurant praised for strong business practices, mentorship of other restaurateurs and deep
FINANCIAL FOCUS
Putting your aging parents’ wishes first
As your parents grow older, it may be time to talk with them about financial and aging issues, which may involve difficult conversations.
Suzy O’Neal Financial columnist
You’ll want to be careful how you approach this. Mention ahead of time that you’d like to talk to them about their future plans and reassure them that you want to understand their wishes, so their affairs will be taken care of as they would like. If your parents are agreeable, choose a comfortable location and ask whom to invite (or not invite). Then, think about how to open the conversation, preferably not with what they want to do with their money, as this could
Pete r Vlautin has over 45 years of Litigation Experience and a Masters (LL.M.) Degree in Taxation.
Member
community involvement.
Co-owner Dan Dreher highlighted the restaurant’s role in launching the El Dorado Leaders for Tomorrow mentorship program, which now serves more than 100 high school juniors from multiple area schools each year.
Dreher thanked the crowd, noting that regular patrons and local partners make the business possible and that the family looks forward to “serving you again.”
The Shingle SpringsCameron Park Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization that supports and promotes local businesses and economic vitality in the Shingle Springs and Cameron Park area. The chamber works to strengthen the community through advocacy, collaboration and business development. Its mission is to advocate, promote and preserve quality of life by fostering a strong, healthy and diverse business community. Learn more at sscpchamber.org.
be interpreted as your seeking information about your inheritance or being skeptical about their financial decisions. Instead, build a broader discussion about their vision for their aging years. A series of shorter conversations may allow you to cover topics more comfortably rather than trying to solve everything at once.
Try to address these areas:
• Health care — Seek to learn whether your parents have established appropriate health-related legal documents such as a health care power of attorney, which gives someone the authority to make decisions about their medical care if they become unable, and a living will, which spells out the extraordinary medical treatments they may or may not want.
• Independence — As people age, they may begin to lose their independence. Have your parents considered options for long-term care, such as an assisted living community, a nursing home or a home health aide? If they plan to receive support from family members, do your parents’ expectations match yours? • Financial goals — Focusing on the personal and financial aspects of the legacy your parents want to leave can be a valuable conversation. Have they updated their will or other estate documents, such as a living trust? Have they created a durable power of attorney for a trusted family member to make financial decisions for them if they become incapacitated? Do they have the proper beneficiary designations on their insurance policies, retirement plan and bank accounts? If you position these issues around your parents having control over transferring their assets, rather than curiosity over “who will get what,” you’ll more likely have a productive
conversation.
• Last wishes — You’ll want to learn whether your parents have instructions in their will about their funerals and last wishes. Express that you or another close family member should know who is responsible for making sure their wishes are met in a timely fashion. Money, independence and aging can be sensitive topics. You don’t have to go it alone; enlist help from another close family member. Or, if your parents work with an attorney, financial professional or other trusted advisor, consider asking if they’re interested in having them participate in your talks. You might even be able to introduce your parents to one of your advisors. In any case, keep talking. These conversations can be challenging, but if handled correctly can be of great benefit to your parents and your entire family. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by local Edward Jones Financial Advisor Suzy O’Neal, (530) 676-5402. Edward Jones, member SIPC.
Village Life photos by Andrew Vonderschmitt
Bre Bertolino, owner of My Bestie’s Closet, above, receives the Startup Business of the Year award from Shingle Springs-Cameron Park
Chamber President Colette Thiel. At right, District 2
Supervisor George Turnboo, right, recalls a time when he saved the life of Larry Cameron Award recipient Carole Perusse, center, after her golf cart turned over.
Saturday Feb 7th
Jack Wright's Neil Diamond Superstar @ 7:30pm / $35-$45 Winters Opera House, 13 Main Street, Winters. winterslive9@gmail.com, 925-785-4300
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Bird - THE BEST OF SAN FRANCISCO DANCE LESSONS, MUSIC, AND DANCE CLUB DANCING, You're invited to our Epic Salsa and Bachata and Cumbia Bash Dance Party Dance Fridays, 550 Barneveld, San Fran‐cisco. info@dancesf.com,
San Francisco
@ 9:30pm Rick & Roxy's, 2131 Lombard St, San Francisco
Oliver Smith @ 10pm Halcyon SF, 314 11th St, San Fran‐cisco
Winter Community Creek
Clean-up @ 10am Join us on Saturday, January 31st
10AM-12PM at Putah Creek Na‐ture Park in Winters! 201 E Main St, 201 East Main Street, Winters
Artist Talk with Charlene Will @ 2pm / $10 Come enjoy an artist talk by Char‐lene Will, recipient of the 2025 Pence Gallery Emerging Artist Award! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370
Can't Look Away
Documentary Film Hosted by the Michael Leonardi Foundation @ 4pm / Free Join us for a special screening of CAN’T LOOK AWAY: The Case Against Social Media — a gripping and urgent documentary exposing the dark side of social media and its devastating impact on young users. Jarvis Conservatory, 1711 Main Street, Napa. info@ michaelleonardifoundation.org
Shea Welsh Performs with Earl Thomas @ 5pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco
Marina V in San Francisco @ 6pm Sutter Street Historic Center, 2460 Sutter St, San Francisco
Serrano Country ClubStories and Songs from Nashville (Mark Taylor & Mark Irwin) @ 6:30pm Serrano Country Club, 5005 Ser‐rano Pkwy, El Dorado Hills
Anthony Arya: The Green Room Social Club
@ 7pm The Green Room Social Club, 251 Main St, Placerville SF Sketchfest: Alex Bennett & Friends: An SF Sketchfest Salute @ 7pm Cobb's Comedy Club, San Fran‐cisco
Adrian West Band at The Melon Ball in Davis
@ 7:30pm / $20
Adrian West Band per‐forms at The Melon Ball listening room in Davis. Six-piece band with Michael Echaniz on the Steinway Grand Piano. A mix of original acoustic rock & covers & jazz. BYOB! Watermelon Mu‐sic, 1970 Lake Boulevard, Davis. adrian@adrian west.com, 510-428-1035 Return of the Emcee XIV @ 9pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco
The Embodied Brain: Movement, Neuroplasticity, and Human Adaptability with Dr. Yana Nakhimova @ 11:15am / Free How does movement shape the brain? ODC Dance Commons, 351 Shotwell Street, San Francisco. boxof�ce@odc.dance, 415-5498534
Makeup & Mimosas: Drag Brunch with a Punch - 13+ with Parent/Guardian @ 12pm Punch Line Comedy Club - Sacra‐mento, Sacramento
Joey Dardano: Another Direction @ SF Sketchfest @ 2pm The Lost Church San Francisco, 988 Columbus Ave, San Francisco
The Telephone Numbers @ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco
The Story of Marion MotleyFree Screening @ 2pm / Free Join us for a free screen‐ing of the award winning PBS documentary Lines Broken, the inspiring story of football legend Marion Motley! Kroc Center, 586 East Wigeon Way, Suisun City. show@eddrick.com
Killing Time w/ Holly James & Johnny Taylor, Jr. - in the Callback Bar @ 7pm Punch Line Sacramento Callback Bar, Sacramento
Yesh Malik @ 7pm Fort Mason Center for Arts & Cul‐ture, 2 Marina Blvd Building C, San Francisco
Aleman & Gera MX - Rich Ma�a Tour US 2026 @ 7pm Ace of Spades, Sacramento
Sace6 @ 8pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco
Lakeside Laughs Comedy Club @ 8pm The Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe
Tai Chi Classes for Beginners @ 8:50am Beginning tai chi classes offered at eh Woodland Community & Senior Center Woodland Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�tness68@ gmail.com
Rotary Club of Davis Weekly Lunch & Program
@ 12pm See website for details. ro‐taryclubofdavis.com Davis Com‐munity Church, 421 D Street, Davis. spshoe@mac.com
Strength & Balance Class @ 1:15pm Strength & Balance class at the Davis Lutheran Church Davis Lutheran Church ELCA, 317 East 8th Street, Davis. tina�tness68@ gmail.com
Fire�y Art: Theodore Judah Elementary (Folsom), Session C @ 2:55pm / $126 Feb 2nd - Mar 23rd
Theodore Judah Elementary (Fol‐som), 101 Dean Way, Folsom. 916419-7644
Children's Dance Classes After School at the Davis Arts Center @ 4:15pm Tina Fitness offers children's Dance classes after school at the Davis Arts Center. Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�t ness68@gmail.com
Ruston Kelly @ 7pm The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco verygently @ 7pm The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco
Ruston Kelly
@ 8pm The Independent SF, 628 Di‐visadero Street, San Francisco
Beginning Tai Chi @ 10:15am Tai chi classes suitable for begin‐ning practitioners Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�t ness68@gmail.com
Product Launch: United DSPM & DLP to Secure Data in the AI Era @ 11am Live on Feb 3, Cyberhaven unveils a uni�ed, AI native DSPM + DLP platform that traces how sensitive data moves across SaaS, cloud, and AI tools so security leaders can see and control real risk. San Fran‐cisco. marketing@cyber haven.com
Sarper Güven @ 7:30pm Punch Line Comedy ClubSacra‐mento, Sacramento
Moulin
Dan
Dan Mangan, and Israel Nebeker @ 8pm Cafe Du Nord, San Francisco
Sips & Bites: The Chemistry of Distinc‐tive Wines @ 6pm / $20-$30
Wine tasting focusing on the chemistry of �avors. Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Sci‐ence, 392 Old Davis Road, Davis. rmievents@uc davis.edu, 530-754-6349
The Hajj @ 6:30pm Hotel Utah Saloon, 500 4th St, San Francisco
Temptress/ Cattlemass/ Barren Altar/ Disastroid @ 8pm Neck of the Woods, San Francisco
Barren Altar @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Disastroid @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Intermediate Tai Chi @ 10:15am Tai chi classes for intermediate practitioners Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�tness68 @gmail.com
Downtown First Thursdays | Feb. 5, 2026 @ 5pm Downtown SF's FREE massive monthly street party! DJs, dancing, drag, and all ages fun every �rst Thursday of the month. DOWN‐TOWN FIRST THURSDAYS 2nd Street, San Francisco. maro@in tothestreetssf.com, 415-226-9289
cisco
Emo vs Pop-Punk @ 9pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco
Kehlani @ 10pm 1015 Folsom, 1015 Folsom St, San Francisco
Davis Senior HS Symphony Orchestra presents: Amer‐ica, Happy 250th Birthday! @ 11am / $10-$15 Davis Senior High School Sym‐phony Orchestra Presents the story of “An American Dream, Commemorating 250 Years of In‐dependence,” Kids Family Con‐cert. Richard Brunelle Performance Hall, 315 West 14th Street, Davis. amoreno@djusd.net, 530-4007614
Manuel Fernando Rios: When They Reminisce Over You @ 11:30am Feb 7th - Mar 29th View a new exhibit at the Pence featuring art by Manuel Fernando Rios! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370
The Dozen Trivia: Big Game Classic V - San Francisco @ 6pm The Fillmore, San Francisco Welsh
Moving Through Menopause: Strength, Elasticity, and Ease with Dr. Karah Charette, DPT @ 12:15pm / Free As we move through the menopause transition, our bodies ask for new ways of listening and tending. Hormonal shifts can affect the elasticity of our tissues - from the pelvic �oor to the tendons ODC Dance Commons, 351 Shotwell Street, San Francisco. boxof�ce@ odc.dance, 415-549-8534 Valentine's Tantra Speed Date® - Reno! (Meet Singles Speed Dating) @ 6pm / $45-$140 Join the speed dating revolution with a 94% connection rate! Meet singles & ignite connections through fun, chemistry-building
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