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Indoor Herb Gardens

Mar 31, 2009 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. These savories might call to mind that old song by Simon and Garfunkle, but have you ever considered growing these herbs yourself? This year, many of us are looking for ways to shave the dollars off our grocery bill. By growing your own herbs, you can do just that, without having to sacrifice freshness, quality or taste. An indoor herb garden is just the project for spring. Getting StartedVery few things are needed once you decide to grow an indoor herb garden – just pots, seeds or plants, a little soil, and a sunny window. Don’t feel like you have to stay with the traditional terra cotta, either. If you plan to keep your garden in the kitchen, choosing fashionable planters to complement your décor can add to the fun. Home and garden stores like Wild Plum in Grass Valley offer an assortment of containers to suit your tastes. Proper Conditions for CultivationEven though growing herbs inside is fairly simple, there are a few conditions that need to be in place to cultivate your harvest. According to Renee Towan, horticulture manager at Smith and Hawken in Roseville, “Most herbs need a lot of light – at least five to eight hours of sun, per day.” She recommends putting the pots in front of a south or southwest facing window, which allows the most light into the house. If your garden is not receiving enough light, you’ll find long stems and fading leaves on your plants, as well as leaves that fall off unexpectedly. However, even if your home doesn’t receive enough natural light, Towan says, “You can supplement it with a grow light.” Grow lights differ from standard light bulbs in that they shine the full spectrum of light required for plants to grow. They are sometimes sold already attached to pots; or, buy them separately and set them up directly above the garden.While the plants will need plenty of light, it is important to keep them away from places where they’ll experience temperature extremes, such as too close to the stove or directly beneath a heater vent. Also, be sure not to over water, which will rot the roots of the plants. It is advisable to let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. Towan also adds, “If you have the room, a six-inch pot would give the plant optimal room to grow.” In no time you’ll be ready to harvest your herbs and season your favorite dishes to tantalize the taste buds of your guests. For more about maintaining Indoor Herb Gardens, be sure to pick up this month's copy of Style-Roseville Granite Bay Rocklin edition. Click on the "Get Your Copy" link on the bottom of this page for some of our newsstand locations. Or, to order a copy of this issue, please email  [email protected], or call 916-988-9888.

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Acupuncture

Mar 31, 2009 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

Do you want to increase your energy, end pain, or just feel better overall? How about without prescription drugs and their possible side effects? Then maybe acupuncture is for you. Although no one really knows the story, one legend suggests the origins of acupuncture thousands of years ago. During battle, a Chinese soldier was shot with an arrow. He discovered that the stone projectile in one part of his body made the pain in another part go away. Since ancient times, instruments and techniques have changed; however, the theory remains constant. Energy continually flows throughout the body and if the energy is interrupted or blocked, illness or disease can occur.This vital energy flow is known as “Qi” (pronounced “Chee”). The Qi travels through the body in a network of channels known as meridians. Each meridian flows to a specific organ. Imagine a series of rivers and creeks – if the water currents are blocked, the stream is disturbed or stopped. The same theory applies when energy is disrupted, distressing symptoms can appear. These blockages can occur for many reasons such as trauma, poor diet, stress and side-effects from medications. For thousands of years, Asian culture has relied on this medical art form for their health needs. Not only is this practice excellent to relieve pain and other symptoms; it is used to preserve health and prevent illness. It is just in recent history that acupuncture has been accepted by the mainstream of the Western world. The acupuncturist places nearly invisible, hair-thin needles (don’t worry, it is painless) into acupuncture points along the meridian to restore the proper flow of Qi. This helps return the proper energy balance and aids the body in healing itself.Dr. Jennifer Jarrett, OMD (Oriental Medical Doctor) of Placerville has been practicing acupuncture for more than 27 years. She loves her practice and sees some patients arrive skeptical, however they usually leave pleasantly convinced. “Jarrett says, “They feel better and it trickles down into all aspects of their lives.”Roseville-based Dr. David Cherry’s office specializes in female infertility. He said in the last 15 years his practice has been able to help more than 200 women have healthy babies. “It is exceedingly rewarding to help women have babies,” Dr. Cherry says. “The joy is boundless.” Dr. Cherry, an OMD, has been practicing this ancient medical art for more than 26 years and has no plans for retiring. “I love my work so much, I never want to retire,” he says. Folsom L.Ac (Licensed Acupuncturist) Wendy Stedeford agrees, “Helping people is totally addicting.” Through her five years of practice, she has been able to help many people eliminate pain and other medical related issues that restricted their life. “I will be around treating people,” Stedeford says, “until I am 85 years old.”This ancient practice focuses on the entire body. It does not simply treat symptoms. Since daily suffering can be unnecessary, it may only be a matter of trying something new – painless needles – to find relief.

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Acupuncture

Mar 31, 2009 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

Do you want to increase your energy, end pain, or just feel better overall? How about without prescription drugs and their possible side effects? Then maybe acupuncture is for you. Although no one really knows the story, one legend suggests the origins of acupuncture thousands of years ago. During battle, a Chinese soldier was shot with an arrow. He discovered that the stone projectile in one part of his body made the pain in another part go away. Since ancient times, instruments and techniques have changed; however, the theory remains constant. Energy continually flows throughout the body and if the energy is interrupted or blocked, illness or disease can occur.This vital energy flow is known as “Qi” (pronounced “Chee”). The Qi travels through the body in a network of channels known as meridians. Each meridian flows to a specific organ. Imagine a series of rivers and creeks – if the water currents are blocked, the stream is disturbed or stopped. The same theory applies when energy is disrupted, distressing symptoms can appear. These blockages can occur for many reasons such as trauma, poor diet, stress and side-effects from medications. For thousands of years, Asian culture has relied on this medical art form for their health needs. Not only is this practice excellent to relieve pain and other symptoms; it is used to preserve health and prevent illness. It is just in recent history that acupuncture has been accepted by the mainstream of the Western world. The acupuncturist places nearly invisible, hair-thin needles (don’t worry, it is painless) into acupuncture points along the meridian to restore the proper flow of Qi. This helps return the proper energy balance and aids the body in healing itself.Dr. Jennifer Jarrett, OMD (Oriental Medical Doctor) of Placerville has been practicing acupuncture for more than 27 years. She loves her practice and sees some patients arrive skeptical, however they usually leave pleasantly convinced. “Jarrett says, “They feel better and it trickles down into all aspects of their lives.”Roseville-based Dr. David Cherry’s office specializes in female infertility. He said in the last 15 years his practice has been able to help more than 200 women have healthy babies. “It is exceedingly rewarding to help women have babies,” Dr. Cherry says. “The joy is boundless.” Dr. Cherry, an OMD, has been practicing this ancient medical art for more than 26 years and has no plans for retiring. “I love my work so much, I never want to retire,” he says. Folsom L.Ac (Licensed Acupuncturist) Wendy Stedeford agrees, “Helping people is totally addicting.” Through her five years of practice, she has been able to help many people eliminate pain and other medical related issues that restricted their life. “I will be around treating people,” Stedeford says, “until I am 85 years old.”This ancient practice focuses on the entire body. It does not simply treat symptoms. Since daily suffering can be unnecessary, it may only be a matter of trying something new – painless needles – to find relief.

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Style Magazine
Local Area Tidbits

Mar 31, 2009 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

Now is the perfect time to step outside and soak up the sun...April 22 is Earth Day, so help celebrate Earth by participating in Cameron Park’s Seventh Annual Community Clean-up Day on April 6, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., call 530-677-2231 for more information...The El Dorado Community Concert Association is holding a membership drive from May 4 to May 9 at the historic Cary House Hotel in Placerville from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, email [email protected] California Native Plant Society is having a Native Plant Sale on April 4, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Get information and advice on how to grow native plants, meet and talk with experts, and share local plant news and information. For sale location and more information, call 530-644-6335 or visit eldoradocnps.org...The Cameron Park Community Center opened Phase One on March 21, five months ahead of the projected completion date. Phase One includes a 4000-square-foot assembly hall with a stage, commercial kitchen, dance studio, administrative offices and a social center...On April 18 join S.P.E.A.R.’s Suicide Awareness Walk-A-Thon to help prevent teenage suicides. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. at Food-4-Less in Cameron Park. Walk starts at 10 a.m. and is $25 per person or $50 for families and includes a T-shirt. For more information, call 530-676-2119...Snowline Hospice is now offering a new grief recovery program for children and their families, which provides a safe place to reflect and express feelings through a variety of cutting-edge action-focused techniques. Classes will be held every other Tuesday through June 18. For more information, call 530-621-7820...El Dorado County has a new family of wineries! Carson Road Wineries is a group of 11 family-owned wineries, all located along or near Carson Road. For more information and a list of participating wineries, visit carsonroadwineries.com...Cake Stuff, which offers classes and supplies related to all things cake, has moved! Find their new storefront at 366 Main Street in Placerville…Experience American nostalgia at its best on April 25 at the 24th Annual Grass Valley Downtown Car Show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. See vintage and antique cars and trucks along with vendor booths and live music. For more information, visit downtowngrassvalley.com...The El Dorado Main Library in Placerville is hosting a special video event on April 19...Teach your children how to survive in the wild. The American River Conservancy will be holding a free Outdoor Survival Skills class on April 11 from 9-10:30 a.m. For more information and meeting location, call 530-621-1224...That’s all for now, but don’t forget to check back next month for our annual Our Kids feature issue! Send your news to: [email protected].

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Rock Generation

Mar 31, 2009 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

Rock Generation’s director, Susan Holt Fletcher, known as “Fletch,” understands what it is like to lack self-confidence. As a child, she suffered with a stuttering problem. Her parents enrolled her at a song, dance and theater studio and she was able to overcome her speech challenges. “Performing on stage helped build my confidence,” Fletch says, “I credit the encouragement I received to help end my stuttering.” Instilling self confidence in children has become Fletch’s life. She first worked with the international organization Sunshine Generation. The well-known group focused on growing the ranks and allowing hundreds of kids to join. In 2006, she decided to break away to form Rock Generation. The new group maintained the emphasis of helping kids grow through live performance; however, Fletch wanted to keep a limited number of performers so that no one would get lost in the crowd. “It is important that the casts are small,” she says, “so coaches and children can get to know and trust each other.” Rock Generation is comprised of 25 children, all 3-14 years old, and two coaches. “It is all about the kids,” Fletch explains. “Every child has talent and we just bring it out.” The group performs in safe venues where the children and the shows are appreciated. Each show is structured to help bring out the performer’s strengths. Songs and skits are selected to go along with each child’s age and ability. The children love performing at local retirement homes. “It is a win-win for everyone,” Fletch says. “The residents love the entertainment and the kids love the appreciation and enthusiasm.” All the songs they perform are uplifting and have empowering themes. One of them is a Disney Camp Rock hit “This Is Me” with lyrics  that strike a cord with performers – I’ve always been the kind of girl that hid my face...So afraid to tell the world what I’ve got to say...This is real. This is me. I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be, now gonna let the light shine on me.Eleven-year-old Amanda Ramos, a three-year veteran of Rock Generation, loves being involved. This Sutter Middle School sixth grader used to be a very shy kid. “I do a lot of stuff now I didn’t do before,” Ramos says. “I have so much more confidence.” She is also grateful that the group has a “no have-to’s” policy. If a child is not up to performing, they are not forced to participate. “My reward is watching my performers shine,” Fletch reflects. “It still touches my heart when that familiar look of triumph lights up a child’s face for the first time. Who could ask for more than that?”With the help of Rock Generation, each child gets their moment to star and shine. And, the feeling of success can never be taken away. What a great way to send kids out into the world!

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In the Pantry

Mar 31, 2009 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

Fricassee du Lapin et EcrevisseFricassee:3 lbs. jackrabbit, cleaned and cut into serving pieces (available at local grocery stores)1 tsp. salt1/2 tsp. freshly ground nutmeg1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper1/2 tsp. paprika3 tbsp. all-purpose flour2 cups water1 cup dry white wine3 tbsp. unsalted butter1 onion, chopped2 cups fresh, small mushrooms1 tbsp. fresh sage, chopped1 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped1 cup half-and-halfSauce Americaine:About 30 crayfish7 ounces tomatoes, chopped2 tbsp. tarragon, chopped2 ounces chervil, chopped2 tbsp. shallots, chopped1 1/2 cups dry white wine1/2 cup heavy cream1/2 cup cognac3/4 cup olive oil1 cup unsalted butterSalt and PepperTo prepare:Wash and dry the rabbit pieces, season with salt and pepper, nutmeg and paprika. Brown the rabbit in hot oil over high heat in a large Dutch oven. Remove the rabbit when well browned. Add more oil if necessary and quickly sauté the reserved crayfish tails, being careful not to over-cook; remove from pan. Reduce heat to medium, add flour and cook until lightly browned, stirring constantly. Whisk in wine and water until smooth. Return the rabbit to the Dutch oven and bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 50 minutes.In the meantime, prepare the Sauce Americaine by first cleaning crayfish; separate the tail meat from the shells and bodies. Place the tail meat in the refrigerator and reserve the shells. In a saucepan, heat one-fourth cup of butter and oil; add crayfish shells and bodies; crush with a spoon and cook for about five minutes. Season with pepper and add shallot, cognac, wine and tomatoes; simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. Strain sauce through cheesecloth.  Gradually whisk in the rest of the butter and add tarragon and cream. Remove the rabbit from Dutch oven and keep warm under foil. Strain and de-fat the broth and marry with equal parts of the Sauce Americaine, adjusting proportions to taste.Melt butter in Dutch oven over medium-high heat; add onion and cook until lightly browned. Add crayfish meat and warm through. Add mushrooms, sage and parsley. Add rabbit and broth and cook over gentle heat until all is thoroughly warm. Do not boil. Serve over noodles.For more Reader Recipes, be sure to pick up this month's copy of Style-Folsom El Dorado Hills edition. Click on the "Get Your Copy" link on the bottom of this page for some of our newsstand locations. Or, to order a copy of this issue, please email  [email protected], or call 916-988-9888.

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Nate Rangel

Mar 31, 2009 05:00PM ● By Super Admin

Nate Rangel is passionate about the river and all things related. He opened his rafting company, Adventure Connection, Inc. in 1984. He helped draft the revised River Management Plan for the South Fork American River, and has served on the River Management Advisory Committee as a commissioner for the California State Park and Recreation Department during Governor Wilson’s administration. Also, Rangel worked on the initial Bureau of Land Management Resource Advisory Committee, and is now a member of the joint USFS/BLM Recreation Resource Advisory Committee for California. “I am honored and lucky to do what I do, and I find most thrilling the river itself,” Rangel says. “Rivers are magical and affect people in ways I cannot explain.”Rangel also works with the tourism council to promote area attractions such as Apple Hill and local wineries, and with the Film Commission to promote cinema in the county.As an El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce representative he dotes, “What I like most about the Chamber, frankly, are the people who work in it. They’re smart, friendly, nice to hang with, and good at what they do,” Rangel shares.For more information about Nate Rangel, and other local happenings and information, be sure to pick up this month's copy of FoothillStyle. Check out the Distribution tab on this Web site for some of our newsstand locations. Or, to order a copy of this issue, please email  [email protected], or call 916-988-9888.

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