The Gold Mine, Friday, May 1, 2026

SPOTLIGHT

Business

Annabelle’s Chocolate Lounge

For many, there’s no one sweeter than Mom. This Mother’s Day, make a gift from Annabelle’s Chocolate Lounge part of the celebration.

Owners Alissa Brundige and Angela Taylor, plus their dedicated staff, are taking orders for chocolate covered strawberries. They also have a nearly endless variety of chocolates, truffles, barks and more should you decide Mom needs a custom box. Sugarfree options are available. Fresh cookies and chocolate/caramel-covered apples are also on the menu.

Those looking for a delicious experience should consider taking Mom to the El Dorado shop; reservations are being accepted for the May 8 & 9 Chocolate, Cheese & Wine Flight hosted at Annabelle’s.

The sisters purchased the shop from original owner Annabelle Fifield in 2021, celebrating in 2026 five years as the master chocolatiers and Annabelle’s 20th anniversary in the community. Look for more details about the anniversary celebration in the coming months.

“We’re happy to be a part of the community,” Taylor said. Brundige agreed, adding they also enjoy collaborating with

area wineries.

Whether customers are celebrating a special day, need a special treat to cheer up or just want to indulge while catching up with a friend, Annabelle’s is the go-to place. The lounge also hosts small group events (dozen guests or fewer) as well as paint nights during which participants enjoy treats while exploring their artistic sides.

All Annabelle’s Chocolate Lounge gourmet chocolates are made on location. The expert candy makers do not add any preservatives or waxes to the chocolates — just pure love. And they’re always trying new combinations; one could be your next favorite.

Brundige and Taylor had a tough time picking their preferred chocolate snack.

“I’m a nuts and chews fan,” Taylor confessed. “I like the milk-chocolate almond turtles.”

In the kitchen, Taylor said she loves making Annabelle’s cookies and caramels. Brundige shared she’s a fan of dipping the fruit. One of her most-loved treats are the orange slices dipped in dark chocolate. “I really like our dark chocolate,” she said.

Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves often causing weakness, pain, numbness, tingling, and may also lead to serious balance problems.

This damage is commonly caused by a lack of blood flow to the nerves in the hands and feet. If not properly treated this lack of blood flow may cause the nerves to degenerate.

As you can see in Figure 1, as the blood vessels surrounding the nerves become diseased they shrink and shrivel. This process hastens the flow of vital nutrients to the nerves required to remain healthy. When these nerves begin to “die” it could lead to balance problems, pain, numbness, tingling and burning symptoms in the hands and feet.

In order to effectively treat your neuropathy 3 factors must be determined.

Placerville, CA – Currently the most common method most doctor’s recommend to treat neuropathy is with the use of prescription drugs. Although these drugs may temporarily reduce your symptoms they may cause a feeling of discomfort and in some cases lead to a variety of terrible unwanted side effects. We have a different method!

The treatment to increase blood flow utilizes a specialized low-level light therapy (not to be confused with laser therapy) using light emitting diode technology. This technology was originally developed by NASA to assist in increasing blow flow.

The low level light therapy is like watering a tree. The light therapy will allow the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerves and provide them with the proper nutrients to heal and repair. It’s like adding water to a tree and seeing the roots grow deeper and deeper.

The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to fully recover varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed neurological and vascular evaluation.

“My feet hurt so bad after sitting I could barely take the first few steps. I have had 11 treatments and no longer feel sharp or shooting pains and most of the tingling is gone. I now have full balance and can walk without pain. As Dr. Mooney explained the treatment is not painful, nothing uncomfortable, and is actually very relaxing.” – Neuropathy Pain Patient

STARS AT SCHOOL

Andrea Domenici

Andrea Domenici’s commitment toward goal setting and student support as an EDCOE Adult Education Teacher has garnered her recognition as a recipient of the Excellence in Teaching Award from the Northern Section of the California Council for Adult Education. The award is typically reserved for teachers who demonstrate outstanding service and leadership in the classroom.

The recognition highlights Domenici’s commitment to the unique needs of adult learners — individuals who are often balancing work, family and education. She shares that a big part of EDCOE’s Adult Education program is pathway planning — supporting students in working toward an educational goal (a high school diploma, GED, ABE, etc.). In practice, it means she focuses on helping students set goals, identify their starting point, break goals into steps, and plan ahead for challenges. Domenici strongly believes when students are involved in the process, it helps them see what they’re capable of accomplishing and overcome the hurdles they face.

Domenici also believes the work she does in the classroom can change the trajectory of a student’s life. “Students make the choice to return and put in the work towards their goal,” she shared. “Seeing students continue to show up consistently and make real progress reflects their commitment. It’s meaningful to see students recognize what they are capable of through their own effort in education.”

The award is especially meaningful to Domenici, who is relatively new to teaching in adult education. It’s her hope that students leave the Adult Education program with the knowledge and skills that support their success, along with a sense of pride in what they’ve accomplished.

Top activities in the region

Now

Ponderosa High School Theater presents “Disney’s Frozen” through May 9. For tickets and more information visit pondodrama.com.

Imagination Theater at the El Dorado Fairgrounds presents “Narnia the Musical” through May 10. For tickets and more information visit itplacerville.org.

The Atrium Gallery EDH at El Dorado Hills Town Center hosts Spring Studio, an artists exhibition featuring the works of Volha Narita-Johnson and Jenny Huang, through May 17. For more information visit edhtowncenter. com.

Arts and Culture El Dorado will host Pictures and Pages: Illustrators of El Dorado County, at Switchboard Gallery through June 7. For more information visit artsandcultureeldorado.org.

MANICOTTI (A171052)

His name is perfect. He is filled with love and waiting for you at the shelter.

HoundX, red, 10mo.

HIME (A171456)

She is a princess in any language, with her striking tiger striped hair mixed with white. F DSH 2 yr.

Adopt Today! Second-Chance Animals Make First-Class Pets!

To Ask about these pets at the El Dorado County Animal Shelter (530) 621-7631 • 6435 Capitol Avenue, Diamond Springs

ATHOS (A171218)

This quiet fur ball awaits your visit and adoption at the shelter. M Calico short-coated age unk.

HAZEL (A170819)

Need a good laugh? Meet this F GSD mix and see if she tickles your funny bone. black & tan, 4yr.

He looks like a very fuzzy miniature bear. Consider adopting this Shih Tzu mix black with highlights.

MITTENS (A171292)

Another adoptable looking for yard guard duty. She is grey tabby/white 1yr.

BEAUTY BOY

(A171204)

With gorgeous blue eyes that will mesmerize this M Lynx Point awaits adoption. 25 mo. DSH.

RALEIGH (A171375)

A bit regal with a unique look. She might be up for an adventure. Great Pyrenees mix, white, 4yr.

Adopt Today! Second-Chance Animals Make First-Class Pets!

To Ask about these pets at the El Dorado County Animal Shelter (530) 621-7631 • 6435 Capitol Avenue, Diamond Springs

GOAT

(A171143)

Two weed-mower bush-trimmers available this week. M tricolor mix breed goats of unknown age.

ARAMIS (A171265)

Another floofball for your consideration. Quite & cute. M Guinea Pig, long coated, brown & white, age unk.

• Large selection of handmade artisan chocolates

• Our chocolates paired with wines from El Dorado & Amador Counties

• Gift boxes of all sizes for any occasion

(A171448)

You can gain her love and affection with a visit to the shelter this weekend. DLH black white & brown 2 yr.

ODIN (A171312)

He spells things backwards so he thinks he is a god. Just go with it. M black with white. Lab mix 2yr.

BALANCE YOUR PLATE with Produce, Protein and Whole Grains

FEATURE IMPACT

Making health-conscious decisions with your at-home menu doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require commitment and a little more foresight at the grocery store. Simple adjustments to overall eating patterns, like building your plate around produce, powerful proteins and whole grains, can encourage better health.

Nutritious meal-planning can be easy, affordable and delicious –and it all starts with a little balance. Consider this advice from the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative, nationally sponsored by the Egg Nutrition Center, to adequately round out a healthy plate.

Fill Half Your Plate with Fruits and Veggies

Loaded with nutrients, fresh produce is a perfect place to start each plate. Fill about half your plate with combinations of bananas, strawberries, blueberries, sweet potatoes, peas, carrots and more of your favorites. To boost variety with each meal, look for fruit and veggie blends or step out of your usual routine and try something new.

Grocery tip: Frozen fruits and veggies are often cheaper and just as delicious as their fresh counterparts. It’s frozen right after it’s picked, locking in freshness for a longer shelf life. Just be sure to avoid products with added salt or sugar.

Carve Out a Quarter of the Plate for Powerful Proteins

Healthy food isn’t just fuel. It should be easy and nourish you, too. Look for versatile solutions that provide a protein power-up like skinless chicken breast, no-salt-added beans, low-sodium tuna, tofu or eggs.

High-quality protein from foods, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help support the muscles in your body. Eggs are an example, along with lean animal protein and some plant-based proteins. According to the American Heart Association’s guidelines, healthy people can include up to one whole egg daily, and up to seven per week, as part of a heart-healthy diet. For older adults with normal cholesterol, two eggs per day is acceptable.

Eggs deliver both protein and choline, nutrients that help support growing brains and bodies, especially early in life. In fact, many Americans don’t get enough choline, a critical nutrient for supporting brain development, memory and mood.

Grocery tip: Stock up on proteins that offer both versatility and affordability, helping you cook multiple meals per week without putting a dent in your wallet. Eggs are a perfect example as they can be used at any meal, not just breakfast – try them in wraps or omelets in the morning, hard-boil them to go with a lunchtime salad or add to a frittata at dinner.

Save a Corner for Whole Grains

Finally, fill that last quarter of the plate with ready-to-go whole grains, many of which provide dietary fiber that can support a healthy heart and healthy digestion. Conversely, most refined grains contain little or no fiber.

Examples of whole grains include barley, brown rice, corn, oatmeal, rolled or steel-cut oats, popcorn, quinoa, sorghum and wild rice, along with products labeled “whole grain” or “whole wheat” like bread or pasta.

Grocery tip: Look for whole grains that can make mealtime a cinch. Corn tortillas, instant oats and even popcorn can help you create nutritious plates and better-for-you snacks with the snap of your fingers. Try keeping packets of pre-cooked brown rice on hand to bulk up favorite dishes or toss with leftovers to round out a healthy plate.

Visit Heart.org to discover more nutrition guidance for heart-healthy meals.

3 Tips to Complement a Healthy, Balanced Plate

Nutrition isn’t just about what’s on your plate – it’s also about what’s next to it and how much is on it. Pair a balanced meal with this advice to help take healthy eating to the next level.

Stay Hydrated

If it’s not already a habit, add a glass of water to each meal. Staying hydrated helps your heart pump blood throughout the body, get rid of waste and regulate body temperature. While water is the best source of hydration, water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables can also play a role.

Watch Portion Sizes

Pay attention to suggested servings from your favorite food groups. For example, one slice of whole-grain bread, 1/2 cup of cooked pasta and two ounces of cheese (about the size of a domino) are the suggested serving sizes for these popular foods.

You can serve and eat smaller portions by:

n When cooking at home, offer the proper serving size to each family member then put extra food away for leftovers.

n When dining out, skip appetizers and split your meal with a friend or partner.

n Avoid eating while watching TV or at your computer. It may be harder to control how much you’re eating if you’re not paying full attention.

n Mindfully measure out your snacks – even fruits and veggies – into appropriate portions before serving instead of helping yourself directly from the bag or box.

Limit Salt

While sodium supports vital functions like controlling your body’s fluid balance, excess sodium in your bloodstream pulls water into the blood vessels, increasing the amount of blood inside them and thus increasing blood pressure. More than 70% of the sodium people eat comes from packaged, prepared and restaurant foods due to salt added for flavoring, stabilizing, preserving and reducing bacterial risk, according to the American Heart Association.

Cutting back on sodium can help reduce the rise in blood pressure that occurs as you age, even if you don’t have high blood pressure now. It may also help reduce the risk of heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease and more.

Try cooking more meals at home where you can control sodium intake, flavoring foods with herbs and spices instead of table salt and rinsing canned beans and vegetables to wash away excess sodium.

The Chimney Smoke RIP offers $599 to $2,000* to replace a non-EPA certified woodstove with a new efficient, cleaner burning, eligible EPA certified wood or gas device.

*$2,000 incentive available to low-income residents or residents of designated low-income communities

The expanded Clean Lawn equipment Incentive Pr ogr am (CLIP) offers $100 to $2,000 to replace a piece of gas powered lawn equipment with a cordless electric version. Now includes push and riding mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers/weedeaters, chainsaws, and more!

The new CHar ge At your Resid ence and Go Electric (CHARGE) incentive program offers plug -in car owners and lessees a $300 incentive to purchase and install a home EV charger.

The Drive Clean! incentive program offers El Dorado County residents a $599 incentive towards the purchase or lease of an eligible new electric, plug-in hybrid, or hydrogen vehicle.

The Driving Clean Assist ance Pr ogr am (DCAP) offers lowerincome residents up to a $10,000 incentive towards the purchase of an eligible new or used clean air vehicle in addition to a $2,000 incentive to help cover the cost of charging. DCAP also provides financial advice and counseling and their select group of financial partners offer financing at a rate of 8% or less.

May 2

The Placerville Shakespeare Club will host its annual Plant Sale, 8:30-11 a.m. in the front yard of the clubhouse at 2940 Bedford Ave. For more information visit placerville-shakespeare.com.

The Dogwood Garden Club will present its Spring Craft Fair in the Pines, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pollock Pines Elementary School, 6290 Pony Express Trail, Pollock Pines. The event will feature locally handcrafted items, savory soups and sandwiches, luscious baked goods, raffle prizes and a fun time. All proceeds collected by the Dogwood Garden Club will be distributed to local non-profit groups. Learn more about the garden club at dogwoodgardenclub.org.

May 3

Cantare Chorale presents Dawn Within family matinée at Foothills United Methodist Church in Rescue at 3 p.m. For more information visit cantarechorale. com.

Music on the Divide presents Lacy J. Dalton at the Georgetown IOOF Hall from 3-5 p.m. For tickets and more information visit musiconthedivide.org.

May 9

Save the Graves will host its northern El Dorado County Cemeteries tour at 10 a.m. at Pioneer Cemetery, 521 Cold Springs Road in Placerville. For more information and pre-registration visit savethegraveseldorado.org.

May 14

Women’s Fund El Dorado will host its 2026 Grants Gala, 5-8 p.m. at the Placerville Gathering Place, 2820 Cold Springs Road in Placerville. For more information visit womensfundeldorado.org.