Was this e-mail shared with you? Sign up here.

Before we officially trade summer evenings for school-night bedtimes, let’s make the most of what’s left. There’s a dive-in movie, a silent disco, live music, a classic car show, and even a Pokémon day for the kids.

We’ve also got a new Thai spot worth checking out and an important update for anyone riding an e-bike around Elk Grove. And a big thank-you to all the teachers getting ready for another school year. You’ve earned a little summer fun too. ❤️

New e-bike rules put safety first

The Gist: The City Council voted unanimously on Aug. 12 to adopt new rules for e-bikes, scooters, and similar devices after a rise in complaints and collisions around town. The ordinance generally keeps them off sidewalks unless signs allow it, holds trail speeds to 15 mph, and bans reckless riding, racing, and motor modifications.

Why It Matters: With so many local kids and commuters now riding e-bikes, the rules are meant to cut collisions and protect both riders and people on foot. Police say early enforcement will focus on educating riders, especially younger ones, rather than writing citations.

Shake Shack opens with a local give-back

The Gist: Shake Shack opened Aug. 5 at The Village, the growing retail center at Elk Grove Boulevard and Big Horn Boulevard, with a morning ribbon-cutting alongside the Chamber. As a give-back, it donated $1 from every sandwich sold on opening day to Elk Grove Food Bank Services.

Why It Matters: Beyond another burger spot, the opening nudges The Village closer to full, part of the fast-growing retail hub taking shape along Elk Grove Boulevard. Elk Grove's first Whole Foods and a Barnes & Noble are expected at the same center later this year.

Tropical soul with some serious spice

5650 Whitelock Pkwy #110, Elk Grove

Consider this your sign to end summer on a bright, flavor-packed note. Rao Thai Eatery effortlessly steps up the local Thai scene with warm hospitality, patio breeze, and dish after dish cooked with real intent.

The rich, herb-steeped Thai boat noodles topped with crispy pork rinds are a non-negotiable, alongside smoky moo ping skewers and fiery papaya salad. Wash it all down with an ice-cold Beerlao and linger a while.

Need a closet refresh or a custom scent?

9093 Elk Grove Blvd #101, Elk Grove

Right on the Main Street strip, Beeleu Boutique is that welcoming spot where the owner actually helps you piece together an outfit. The rack selection leans affordable and easy to wear, with seasonal arrivals, cute tops, and cozy fall-ready sweaters.

Between the reasonable price tags and the in-store Sp3ctrum Labs custom perfume blending bar, it doubles as a clever back-to-school bribe for a little afternoon shopping reward away from the big-box highway stores.

✈ Insider Travel

Skip the Resort. 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

Insider Newsletter approved. ✓

Thank you to our sponsors who help keep this newsletter free for the community. 🙏

Click here to be the business everyone hears about next week!

🎬 Dive-In Movie: High School Musical | Elk Grove Aquatics Center | 08/21 | More
Evening pool swim paired with a classic musical on the big screen.

🎧 Fridays in the Grove: Silent Disco | District56 | 08/21 | More
Grab headphones, pick your channel, and dance your own party. Free.

🎨 Under the Sunny Sea (Little Brushes) | Pinot's Palette | 08/22 | More
A kid-sized painting class built for little hands.

📚 Family Storytime w/ Teen Volunteers | A Seat at the Table Books | 08/22 | More
Picture book readings and hands-on crafts at the local indie bookstore.

🃏 Kids Pokemon Day | Hobby Quest | 08/23 | More
Trading, game strategy tutorials, and community fun for young collectors.

🎶 Listening on the Lawn: Roni Yadao | McConnell Estates Winery | 08/23 | More
Spread a blanket for a mellow, easygoing afternoon set.

🍕 Miwok Village PTA Fundraiser | Round Table Pizza | 08/24 | More
Delicious pizza night giving back to local elementary school programs.

🎸 Live Music Thursday: Tommy Palmer | Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Old Town Tap House | 08/20 | More
Acoustic tunes and craft pours on a relaxed patio setting.

🎉 Party at 32 Brews Street | 32 Brews Street | 08/21 | More
Late-night DJ sets and dancing to kick off your weekend.

🎨 Paint & Mingle Gathering Series | Cafe Elk Grove | 08/22 | More
Guided painting session with signature mocktails and artisan charcuterie bites.

🏎️ Classic Car Show | The Park at Laguna Springs Independent Living Community | 08/22 | More
Vintage vehicles, delicious eats, train rides, and community fun.

🎤 Karaoke Wednesdays | South Slope Wines & Bistro | 08/26 | More
Sing-alongs plus artisan wines and bistro small plates.

🥃 The Vault Collection | The Humidor | 08/27 | More
Rare bourbon pours thoughtfully paired with prestige cigars.

🍷 Friday Night Wine Club Series | McConnell Estates Winery | 08/28 | More
After-hours wine tasting with live music and curated gourmet small bites.

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

Thanks for reading our newsletter! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

Click here to follow us: Facebook

How did you like today's newsletter?

Login or Subscribe to participate