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August is moving fast, and local back-to-school season is officially in full swing around town. You can feel that familiar shift in the morning air and see it in the crowded school drop-off lines. A huge shoutout to all our local teachers kicking off the new year right now.

You truly do all the heavy lifting for our kids, and we hope you get to relax a bit this weekend. We have a loaded lineup of events, local spots, and good news below to help everyone ease into the new routine.

Folsom moves a new fire staffing model forward

The Gist: Folsom City Council has advanced a staffing change that creates dedicated EMT and paramedic positions while maintaining three ambulances. The plan also allows the Fire Department to reactivate an engine that had been browned out because of staffing limitations.

Why It Matters: Restoring that engine strengthens emergency coverage as Folsom’s population and service demands continue growing.

An EDH teen returns with eight international honors

The Gist: Thirteen-year-old Saanvi Palem returned from the International United Miss competition in Houston with eight honors and distinctions. Her awards recognized public speaking, Bollywood dance, academics, community service, portfolio work, and social media.

Why It Matters: Saanvi’s work extends beyond the stage through senior-care volunteering, a toy drive, and donations supporting children in need. That is an impressive hometown example of talent paired with service.

The burger we order by name

If the words “Johnny Cash burger” get your attention, this Sutter Street stop knows exactly what it is doing. Samuel Horne’s Tavern pairs an old-timey taproom feel with a deep craft-beer board and pub food built for a real appetite.

The Johnny Cash stacks bacon, cheddar, fried onion straws, and bourbon-espresso red-eye sauce on Angus beef. The Cootie adds pepper jack, spinach, roasted serranos, serrano aioli, and an over-easy egg. Bacon and blue cheese fries make the correct table starter, especially when someone claims they only want one bite.

It is casual, unfussy, and very Historic Folsom.

Lessons without the recital-room stiffness

703 Bidwell Street, Suite F, Folsom, CA

Folsom Music Lessons has the useful kind of hometown pedigree. Ross Standley grew up in Historic Folsom, graduated from Folsom High, and now runs the family-owned studio with his wife, Jessica. They have served local students since 2016.

The school offers one-on-one lessons in guitar, bass, drums, vocals, piano, saxophone, violin, and more. Every age, skill level, and musical style is welcome, with instruction shaped around each student rather than a one-size-fits-all book.

Ross brings more than 30 years of playing and 20 years of teaching experience. A free first lesson makes trying it feel easy.

✈ Insider Travel

Skip the Typical Resort This Summer. Stay in a Centuries-Old Sicilian Village Instead.

Casa Gratteri offers beautifully restored homes in Gratteri, a hidden mountain town in Sicily with sweeping views, deep history, and zero crowds. Full concierge service, a private chef on request, and modern finishes throughout. This is the kind of trip people talk about for the rest of their lives.

Casa Gratteri, Sicily

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🧘 Palladio Free Outdoor Yoga | Palladio Piazza | Folsom | 08/15 | More
Free all-level movement starts the weekend feeling lighter.

🐝 Honey Bee Day | Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary | Folsom | 08/15 | More
Honey tastings, live demonstrations, and pollinator activities keep curious families buzzing.

📚 Palladio Tot Tuesday | Palladio Piazza | Folsom | 08/18 | More
Free stories and playful activities keep little ones happily busy.

🍓 Living Smart Farmers Market | Palladio at Broadstone | Folsom | 08/19 | More
Midweek produce, baked goods, and handmade finds reward a slower morning.

🚙 Cappuccino Cruisers Cruise-In | Jimboy’s Tacos | Folsom | 08/19 | More
Vintage rides, raffles, and cruising music make a nostalgic family stop.

🎻 Symphony al Fresco | Marshall Amphitheater | El Dorado Hills | 08/20 | More
Iconic movie scores and symphonic favorites fill a free evening under the stars.

🎤 Karaoke Night | Churchill Arms Pub | Folsom | 08/14 | More
Favorite songs and friendly nerves turn into easygoing Friday-night fun.

🎵 Kaylee Rose | Crawdads on the Lake | Folsom | 08/15 | More
Country-pop hooks and lakeside energy make this an easy Saturday night.

📖 Adults Read YA Book Club | Barnes & Noble Kitchen | Folsom | 08/18 | More
A fantasy read sparks friendly conversation among grown-up young-adult fans.

👢 Line Dancing | Theatre Plaza | El Dorado Hills | 08/18 | More
Free instruction makes those first country steps feel surprisingly approachable.

🤝 Town Center Connect Mixer | El Dorado Hills Town Center | El Dorado Hills | 08/19 | More
Local professionals trade introductions, ideas, and easy conversation over light bites.

🎙️ Open Mic Night | Gaslight Co. Craft Bar & Kitchen | Folsom | 08/19 | More
A welcoming stage brings acoustic surprises and unpolished local talent.

A huge thank-you to all the teachers heading back to school. You deserve the laughs ahead more than anyone! ❤️

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