Serrano Magazine Spring 2021

SERRANO Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills SPRING 2021

Footloose in the Foothills FIDO-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES

The Story of Serrano’s Stone HAULING IN THE LANDSCAPE

EDMT Reimagines Productions . . .Virtually HIGH VOLTAGE IN THE MOVIES

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SERRANO

SERRANO ERRANO Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills Living the Good Life in El Dorado HillsF A L L 2 0 2 0

Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills

SPRING 2020

serranoeldorado.com sacmag.com

Apple Hill

EXPLORE AND ENJOY SAFELY

Highway 88

CLAIMING SCENIC HONORS

OAK RIDGE HIGH’S CENTER STAGE

Community Heroes Who’s Behind the Curtain?

GOING ABOVE & BEYOND

FIRE CHIEF MAURICE JOHNSON

Welcome to EDH! Island of Black and White Band SIENNA RIDGE SHOPPING CENTER MUSIC AT YOUR DOORSTEP

Opening Spring 2020!

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.GET THE

2/3/20 2:30 PM

Digital EDITION.

NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE OR VIA THE APP

Serrano—Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills magazine is a publication of the Serrano community in El Dorado Hills. It is written and produced three times a year for Serrano Associates by Sacramento Media LLC . The magazine is distributed under the authority of Parker Development Company to all Serrano residents, property owners and country club members.

Additionally, copies are distributed to businesses and outlets throughout El Dorado Hills and neighboring communities from Folsom to Placerville. Copies are available at the Serrano Visitors Center, at Serrano builders’ model home complexes and at select local businesses.

Serrano is being developed by Parker Development Company, a longtime Sacramento-area creator of high-quality and award-winning master-planned communities.

CONTACT:

marketing@serranoeldorado.com or call (916) 939 -3333

EDITED AND PRODUCED BY SACR AMENTO MEDIA LLC

WWW.SACMAG.COM/DIGITAL-EDITION

PUBLISHER Dennis Rainey EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Krista Minard PROJECT EDITOR Kristin Conner PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Stephen Rice PROJECT DESIGNER Debbie Hurst SENIOR ADVERTISING DESIGNER John Facundo Jr. NATIONAL ACCOUNTS MANAGER Lisa Bonk ADVERTISING MANAGERS Duff y Kelly duff y@sacmag.com Victor Obenauf victor@sacmag.com Carla Shults carla@sacmag.com

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND DIGITAL MEDIA Dan Poggetti

Get a Sacramento update sent directly to your device every weekday with

The Daily Brief from

MARKETING AND DIGITAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Nicole Kern EDITORIAL & SALES OFFICES: 231 Lathrop Drive, Suite A, Sacramento, CA 95815; (916) 426-1720 PUBLISHED BY SACR AMENTO MEDIA LLC Stefan Wanczyk, CEO John Balardo, President P R I N T ED BY C R EEL P R I N TI N G

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SERRANO Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills

SERRANO WELCOME TO

Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills

editor’s note: Welcome to the Spring 2021 issue of Serrano magazine and to a new year! Now that we have left 2020 behind, I know we are all looking forward to a year filled with good health, peace and new opportunities.

This issue is filled with stories that reflect some of the creative ways area businesses are serving our communities safely. If you enjoy hanging out with your four-legged friends, be sure to catch up on another Footloose in the Foothills adventure. Author Jolaine Collins shares her daylong excursion with her dogs in “Fido-Friendly Adventures” on page 34.

If the slopes are your passion, check out Janet Fullwood’s story, “Tahoe Bound,” on page 40 to read about the modifications Tahoe-area ski resorts are making to ensure snow lovers enjoy a day on the hill safely.

For those of us missing the arts, did you know the El Dorado Musical Theatre is alive and well? The theater company pivoted last year due to COVID-19 and has reimagined its productions in very creative ways.

Check out the story on page 45 to discover how you can still engage with EDMT’s productions in a virtual way!

Serrano is being developed by Parker Development Company, creator of high-quality, awardwinning master-planned communities since 1956, including Greenhaven and Riverlake in the Pocket area of Sacramento, and The Parkway in Folsom.

Serrano’s amenities include miles of hiking and biking trails and more than 1,000 acres of open space. Numerous neighborhood parks are located within the gated villages. El Dorado County’s K–12 schools offer an exceptional level of education, with test scores that have ranked among the highest in California.

The private, member-owned Serrano Country Club offers elegant and casual dining as well as tennis, swimming and exercise facilities. Serrano’s 18-hole championship golf course was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. For information about Serrano Country Club, call (916) 933-5005 or visit online: serranocountry club.org.

For our Serrano residents and visitors, have you ever wondered about the origination of the beautiful stone found throughout the development? Writer Bill Romanelli shares the story behind the developers’ vision and adventures that brought this distinct and elegant stone to Serrano.

Speaking of Serrano, if you have an interest in building or purchasing a home in Serrano, now is the time given the heavy migration of buyers looking to relocate to the quiet, scenic rolling hills of El Dorado County.

See the story about production homes and custom lots on page 28.

Finally, I want to send a shout out to our amazing El Dorado County students who are making the best of current circumstances with patience and grace. El Dorado County Office of Education Superintendent Dr. Ed Manansala shares some of their voices on page 49. We know these are incredibly challenging times for our students and school district staff.

Please know we’re incredibly grateful for all of you..

Serrano and the Serrano logo are state-registered trademarks

Enjoy this issue!

Kristin Conner Editor 6

SERRANO

SERRANO SPRING 2021

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NEW ON THE MARKET IN SERRANO

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PREMIUM LOTS STILL AVAILABLE!

First release sold quickly! Don’t miss your opportunity to select one of the few remaining premium Folsom Lake or open space view lots.

This new phase of lots is located within the gated community providing the utmost in privacy and serenity.

• 24-Hour staffed guardhouses • Gorgeous Folsom Lake views • Premier cul-de-sac location • Pricing starts in the mid-$200,000s

• All lots are engineered and graded • Peaceful greenbelt views • Large and smaller lots to fit your lifestyle • Lot sizes range from .40 to over an acre

Lots are a short golf cart ride away from the award-winning private golf course and country club

•

Serrano is a fantastic place to call home!

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lisa@paragarymillerteam.com

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www.paragarymillerteam.com Prices subject to change. See sales representatives for updated pricing and buyer programs. Brokers welcome. Serrano and Serrano logo are state-registered service marks.

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contents SERRANO Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills

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34

11

Good Reads RUBY’S BOOKS IN FOLSOM

15 El Dorado County Calendar & Resources During COVID-19 SPRING 2021

19 Timmy’s Brown Bag UNIQUE SAMMIES IN PLACERVILLE

20 On the Porch FAMILY PORTRAITS

22 Photos With Santa CHRISTMAS IN A SNOW GLOBE

24 The Story of Serrano’s Stone HAULING IN THE LANDSCAPE

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28 Serrano’s Production Homes & Custom Lots AVAILABLE NOW, BUT GOING FAST!

32 Introducing Behr Jude SERRANO EL DORADO OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION

34 Footloose in the Foothills FIDO-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES

40 Tahoe Bound WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A COLOR-CODED SKI SEASON

45 El Dorado Musical Theatre Reimagines Productions HIGH VOLTAGE IN THE MOVIES

49 Dr. Ed Manansala EL DORADO COUNTY STUDENTS: RESILIENT, BRILLIANT AND HOPEFUL

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COMING WITH THE

MAY 2021 ISSUE OF SACRAMENTO MAGAZINE

In Every Issue New Design Trends Insight From Local Style Setters Latest In-Home Products and Decor Fine Homes and Furnishings That Inspire Appliances and Gadgets Galore Neighborhoods Real Estate

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good

reads

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by CHERISE HENRY

photography by GABRIEL TEAGUE

Nestled in the heart of Sutter Street in Historic Folsom is Ruby—and her 12,000 handpicked books.

Ruby is a neighborly 5-year-old golden retriever and the inspiration behind the name of Folsom’s only independent bookstore, Ruby’s Books, which opened in September after nearly a year of dreaming and prepping.

“Little towns we’ve traveled to have these cute historic areas, including local bookstores that bring the community together,” says Stacy Gould, owner of Ruby and Ruby’s Books.

“I wanted that for Folsom.”

The charming and welcoming bookstore offers enticing reads for adults, young The charming adults and children (and dog lovers). If a title is not in stock, the bookstore can quickly order nearly any published and printed book. and welcoming “Ruby’s Books is a space where people can gather to learn new things and bookstore offers have discussions about reading or what’s going on in the world, to come enticing reads for together,” says Gould, “and for children to be surrounded by books, and have adults, young adults a relationship with books, at a young age.”

Gould—a longtime Folsom resident, previous middle school and homeand children (and school teacher and doula—has support from her children and husband with the dog lovers). new business venture. Her teenage son hand-painted the mural in the imaginative children’s corner and her daughter helps with customer service.

The bookstore offers children’s story time, authors’ signing events (including local authors), book group bulk orders and partnerships with nearby schools for book fairs and educator discounts. Th is past holiday season, Ruby’s partnered with local nonprofits to fi ll 200 book gift requests. Gould encourages readers to support small businesses by “shopping local and ordering your books with us.” 724 Sutter St., Folsom; (916) 790-8760; rubysfolsom.com. Open Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. (closed on Tuesday) and Friday– Saturday 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

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I’m being vaccinated because...

Medical experts believe that getting the vaccine is one of the most significant ways to control the COVID pandemic. There will be a phased distribution based on health risk.

S •

•

•

I want to lead by example for my patients, family, friends and the community. Let’s crush COVID with C.O.V.I.D.: Community Of Vaccinated Individuals with Determination.

– Anuradha Shanmugham, MD

•

Family Medicine, Marshall Medical Center

I want things to get back to normal and I believe in the science behind the vaccine.

I want my patients to stay healthy and I want to be able to see their smiles again.

– Kathleen Hertzer, MD, PhD General Surgery, Marshall Medical Center

I want to protect my patients and their unborn babies, to protect my family, and to help stop the loss of life caused by COVID-19.

– Michele Cherry, MD OB-GYN, Marshall Medical Center

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•

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SAFE & EFFECTIVE • After full review, scientific evidence shows the vaccines to be safe and effective in preventing COVID-19 infection.

I got vaccinated to protect my community and patients. And I got vaccinated to kick COVID to the curb.

• The vaccines were developed quickly due to a worldwide effort from public health experts, manufacturers, and the scientific community. Unlimited resources, coupled with cooperation from the FDA sped up the process.

– Ryan Lussenden, MD General Surgery, Marshall Medical Center

• Side effects such as chills, fatigue or body aches are normal, don’t last long and are a sign that your body is building an immune response.

• El Dorado County Public Health is organizing public vaccinations.

Visit edcgov.us for appointment information.

• Marshall is supporting the county program by vaccinating targeted groups according to the phased rollout and vaccine availability.

People in these groups will be contacted directly by Marshall.

I am being vaccinated as it gives me hope that the COVID pandemic will soon end.

– Connie Burgeson, MD Family Medicine, Marshall Medical Center

I want to protect the community we serve and as a pediatrician, I understand that prevention is the key to bringing this bug down.

– Brett Christensen, MD Pediatrics, Marshall Medical Center

Wear a mask, wash your hands, keep your distance, and when it’s your turn, get vaccinated. For more information visit marshallmedical.org/coronavirus.

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Savor your evenings beneath the covered patio and cozy fire pit.

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calendar & resources el dorado

county

DU RING COVID -19

El Dorado Hills Community Services District (CSD):

DISTANCE LEARNING AND SOCIAL TIME

DISTANCE LEARNING/ ADVENTURE ZONE HYBRID The CSD is providing morning and afternoon cohort childcare for families Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Buckeye Union School District is providing transportation to and from CSD. Visit eldoradohillscsd.org for additional information.

FOR MORNING STUDENT COHORTS:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fee: $77 FOR AFTERNOON STUDENT COHORTS:

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 7:45 a.m. to noon Wednesday: 7:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Fee: $77

Child care provides opportunities for children to learn, grow and thrive as they make their way from Kindergarten through 5th grade. Children will enjoy daily physical and educational activities, to include sports and recreation, homework assistance and distance learning support, all while socializing with friends in a safe and healthy environment.

Monday through Friday: 7:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Fee: $135

ADVENTURE ZONE: AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM Adventure Zone provides a safe, caring and enriching environment for your child after school. CSD staff provide children with a variety of opportunities to participate in art, science and outdoor activities, as well as time for homework and fun.

Monday through Friday: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Wednesday: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Fee: $95

February—March

Hands4Hope—Youth Making a Difference Toiletries Drive

This drive benefits families in need, the home less and veterans. Please consider donating travel size toiletries (lotion, shampoo, conditioner, bath gel, soap), toilet paper, deodorant, sunscreen, ChapStick®, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, razors and hand sanitizer.

All donations can be dropped off at the Hands4Hope office located at 5005 Wind play Dr., Suite 2 in El Dorado Hills. The drive will run February through March. For more information about Hands4Hope and learn how to get involved in the events below and other monthly community engagement opportunities, please visit hands4hopeyouth.org.

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March HANDS4HOPE—Youth Making a Difference Summer Internship and Committee Opportunities hands4hopeyouth.org

April

Buy online now and save! Tickets are $25 online through April 17, and then $35 starting April 18 through the event dates. Enjoy one or both days over Mother’s Day weekend! In case of closures due to public health safety guidelines, the back-up dates are Sept. 25-26, 2021. Visit eldoradohillsart festival.org or call (916) 933-1335 for more information.

HANDS4HOPE—Youth Making a Difference Youth Board Fundraiser

Ongoing

The event date and times are to be determined and will be dependent on public health guidelines. hands4hopeyouth.org

AMERICAN RIVER CONSERVANCY (ARC)

May 8-9 EL DORADO HILLS ART, BEER & WINE FESTIVAL 2021 The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the El Dorado Hills Town Center, located at 4364 Town Center Blvd. in El Dorado Hills. Admission is free. The day includes unlimited tasting kits: beer/wine for 21+ (must show ID), wristband, and a commemorative event glass.

Outdoor hikes and other outdoor activities are encouraged (limited to 10 people). Visit arconservancy.org/ to learn more about ARC’s Salmon Falls and the Acorn Creek Trailhead (arconser vancy.org/acorncreek). The Conservancy is also accepting donations at ARConser vancy.org/donate.

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El Dorado Hills Library VIRTUAL EVENTS ON ZOOM WITH MS. PAULA VIRTUAL STORY TIME: ● MOTHER GOOSE ON THE LOOSE

Little ones ages 0-2 years and their caregivers will have lots of fun at this 30-minute story time. Enjoy songs, rhymes and reading fun. Thank you to Betsy Diamant-Cohen for allowing us to continue presenting this award-winning, early literacy prgram. Email paula.beckerman@edcgov.us for more information about the library’s virtual events below and to register. ● PAJAMA STORY TIME

What’s better than stories, songs, jammies and your favorite snuggly? Nothing! Children of all ages are welcome. ● 2’S AND 3’S ON THE GO

Join Ms. Paula for an interactive time with Newspaper Adstory – 5x8.5 developmentally appropriate stories, songs and movement for toddlers and their caregivers.

EARLY LITERACY STORY TIME ON ZOOM Join Ms. Paula each week for an early literacy story time. Even though we can’t be together in person, this program will continue to focus on early literacy skillsets so children will be ready to learn when they enter kindergarten.

For the most recent story time schedule, please visit eldoradolibrary.org and click on the calendar of events. You may also email sandra.kelsey @edcgov.us.

Y.E.L.L. (YOUTH EXECUTIVE LEAGUE AT THE LIBRARY) ON ZOOM Grades 6 through 12 are welcome to join the library’s virtual teen council. The group meets twice a month on Zoom to share ideas and plan virtual events for the community. Participants will earn community service hours for meeting attendance and work projects of their choice. Email sandra. kelsey@edcgov.us to register. Dates and times are to be determined. Please contact the library at eldoradolibrary.org

Win this House

St. Jude patient Woods

Giveaway Date: April 8, 2021

Bonus Prize

Get your ticket by March 19, 2021 for a chance to win a 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS, courtesy of the John L Sullivan Charitable Foundation, Inc. Built by Woodside Homes in the Cypress subdivision, Rancho Cordova, CA. Estimated value $500,000.

Ticket Outlets: Patelco Credit Union​​

National Sponsors

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Local Sponsors

Giveaway is conducted by and benefits ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. St. Jude’s audited financial statement is available upon request to St. Jude by calling 1-800-822-6344 or by email at annual.report@stjude.org.

Your payment may be deducted under Federal and State income tax laws only to the extent that it exceeds the cost of the tickets you purchase. ©2020 ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. (DMH-120) CA R-0061

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Ham sandwich with beet horseradish slaw and apple

timmy’s

w

brown bag UNIQUE SAMMIES IN PLACERVILLE

by CATHERINE WARMERDAM photography by GABRIEL TEAGUE

What do smoked baby clams, Spam, kimchi, chow mein noodles, cery stocked with Russian, Indian or Korean foods. He’s drawn pomegranate boba and crunchy Sriracha peas have in common? to ingredients he’s never before tried or that derive from complex They’re all sandwich ingredients at Timmy’s Brown Bag, a comcultural intersections. pact Placerville lunch joint that surprises and delights customers “I don’t treat the local farmers market as the entire milieu or with some of the most off beat food combinations ever found my entire palate,” he explains. “It’s an international kind of world between two slices of bread. we live in.”

Texas native Tim Swischuk taught college architecture courses When dreaming up a new creation, Swischuk might start with before making a midcareer shift to cooking, working at Michael an ingredient, say a hash brown patty, then read up on variations Chiarello’s Bottega and other Napa Valley kitchens for seven of fried potatoes across cultures, arriving at the vada pav, a deepyears. “I opened the sandwich shop in 2016 so I could do my own fried potato dumpling popular in India. With that element as thing,” he says. Since then, he’s been experithe foundation, Swischuk will build upon Tim Swischuk’s sources of menting with flavors and textures that push a concept, adding ingredients according the boundaries of what a sandwich can be. to his unconventional culinary intuition. inspiration are informed as Take Timmy’s Cauliflower 65: fried Somehow it all works. much by online research of cauliflower, Indian spiced gravy, pani The menu, which he alters frequently, is history and geography as puri mayo, chutney, arugula, cilantro and an intentionally dense read. “I make the they are by a visit crunchy Indian snacks on Texas toast brimenu hard to read on purpose so that cusoche. Or the ham sandwich with balsamic tomers have to jump into it,” he says. “Th at to the farmers market. strawberries, lemon chevre, pepper bacon way they become part of the research.” marmalade slaw and Pop Rocks candy. Or the BLT with TangCustomers are willing participants in Swischuk’s grand sandlaced tomatoes. “There’s nothing on the menu that customers wich experiment, and they don’t shy away from all the zaniness have ever had before,” says Swischuk, and he’s right. that entails. There’s little room to accommodate picky eaters or Swischuk’s sources of inspiration aren’t always obvious, and are fad diet adherents when the ingredients are this unorthodox. As informed as much by online research of history and geography as Swischuk puts it, “Most people who come in know what they’re they are by a visit to the farmers market or a trip to a local grogetting into.”

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on the porch

in el dorado hills PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARM PHOTOGRAPHY

f

Family portraits are a popular tradition throughout the holiday season as families prepare to send out Christmas cards to loved ones near and far. Traveling throughout the El Dorado Hills and Folsom areas, Charlene Lane of Charm Photography photographed families using a long lens from a safe distance. Lane launched Porch Portraits last April so families could create lifelong memories from the privacy of their own home porches. To learn more about Charm Photography’s Porch Portraits, visit charmphotography.com.

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photos with santa

at el dorado hills town center PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARM PHOTOGRAPHY

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Santa Delighted Children at the California Welcome Center in El Dorado Hills!

This year, children made their way to the California Welcome Center in Town Center to share their wishes with Santa, who was separated by plexiglass to ensure everyone’s safety, while Charlene Lane of Charm Photography photographed the children and families. Lane used her digital creativity to make it appear as though the children were in a snow globe with Santa.

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THE

STORYof SERRANO’S STONE

HAULING IN THE LANDSCAPE

by BILL ROMANELLI

photography by PARKER DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, CHARM PHOTOGRAPHY/CHARLENE LANE and CASSIO HABIB

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ears before the first shovel ever broke ground at Serrano, Bill Parker was deer hunting on the Nevada/Idaho border when a small stone caught his eye. Something about its color and shape appealed to him, so he picked it up and went on with his hunt, little knowing he’d just put some of his future in his pocket.

Fast forward to the 1990s to Parker sharing his vision for the buildings at Serrano with architect Bob Forrar. Inspired

by Frank Lloyd Wright and his philosophy of maintaining harmony between humanity and its environment, Forrar had been Parker’s architect throughout the 1980s, and he had a knack for understanding Parker’s vision.

“It was important that Serrano maintain as much of the natural landscape appearance as possible, with its rolling, golden hills and calm, serene setting, while also reflecting the historic architecture of the area,” Forrar says.

Parker was particularly taken with a house in Marysville that made use of flagstones, “but thinner.” He described it to Forrar, and they launched a driving tour of the gold country area. Historic stone buildings and old rock walls helped crystallize the idea of what they were looking for, but the problem was the color. All the natural rock in El Dorado Hills is green/ grey to black, and what they found would stand in too much contrast to the “golden highlands” Parker wanted to match. To get a supply of stone that would work with their vision, they needed to find it somewhere else.

Thus began a quest that would take several months and send them throughout the American West. Then, as fate would have

Serrano Village Green office building

Original rock wall in Serrano

Serrano entry stone wall

The Marysville home that inspired Bill Parker’s quest

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The Serrano Village Green waterfall is a beautiful site seen along Silva Valley Parkway in El Dorado Hills.

The Serrano clubhouse as seen under construction

Serrano clubhouse

Oakley, Idaho

Serrano clubhouse patio

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it, they came upon a quarry in Oakley, Idaho, right on the Nevada/Idaho border.

“As I looked around, I realized I was on the Idaho side of the same quarry I’d seen from the Nevada side while hunting years “We spent earlier,” Parker says. millions of extra “The stone I’d taken dollars to get the stone with me that day turned out to be we wanted,” says Parker. the fi rst of millions “It was a very personal that would come thing for me, as Serrano from Idaho to El and its quality had Dorado Hills.” to be real.”

Even as they had found their quarry, the logistical problems became clear. Trucking thousands of tons of stone 600 miles over the Sierra wasn’t going to be easy or cheap. A similar-looking fabricated stone was available closer and at less cost, but Parker wouldn’t have it.

“We spent millions of extra dollars to get the stone we wanted,” says Parker.

“It was a very personal thing for me, as Serrano and its quality had to be real.”

Winter was another problem, as snow shut down quarry operations for several months every year. To keep the Serrano development on schedule, huge orders had to be placed in advance, and operations in Idaho needed to run on full tilt during “open” months.

“I remember driving along Highway 80 and seeing the caravans of trucks coming down from the Sierra carrying our stones,” says Parker Development Company’s Vice President of Construction, Tom Howard. “And then a family squabble shut the quarry down.”

Th ree brothers owned the quarry, and they just could not get along. The trucks stopped coming, and Parker, Forrar and Howard all saw their plans trapped in limbo.

“We had to fly out there to settle the dispute,” Parker says. “I told them we were crazy, and that no one else was going to order as much of that stone in as short a time as me, and they needed to pull it together.”

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The mission was successful, and operations resumed, but the team also found other sources for the stone (called Quartzite) and never had to concern themselves with shutdowns again.

Today you can see the beauty of Bill Parker’s vision on the Serrano clubhouse, entryways, main buildings and homes throughout Serrano, and even on the golf course. Hundreds of thousands of tons of gray and gold quartzite stone have come in—one ton covers about 30 square feet— and it’s still being delivered to Serrano today.

All that stone may not be the fi rst thing anyone notices when they drive through Serrano as the stunning landscape and picturesque setting are much more likely to get their attention. Then again, that was always the point.

Serrano Village Green offi ce building

Original Serrano rock wall

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SERRA NO’S

&

PRODUCTION HOMES CUSTOM LOTS Available Now, But Going Fast!

by BILL ROMANELLI

Hidden Lake at Serrano by K Hovnanian Homes

View from a custom lot

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Hidden Lake at Serrano by K Hovnanian Homes

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View from a custom lot

The lure of El Dorado Hills and Serrano has always been tempting. The traffic, crowds, noise and high cost of living that are driving people out of the Bay Area and Los Angeles are no match for the spacious lots, open space and gentle serenity offered here in the foothills.

“Buyers are leaving densely populated areas in droves for the space and freedom of areas like El Dorado Hills,” says Lisa Paragary, a real estate agent with Sotheby’s International.

“A place like Serrano checks all the boxes of today’s discerning home buyers.”

When you partner that with a housing product in the top of its class, the tempting lure of Serrano becomes virtually irresistible.

Take Collina at Serrano, for example.

A development by Woodside Homes, Collina first opened in October 2019 with 72 lots and, at press time, had only 26 remaining. The development offers semicustom homes starting at around $579,000 for 1,885 square feet of living space on a 5,100-square-foot lot . . . with options to go bigger and better available.

“We brought the very best Woodside homes has to offer here,” says Lorena Rucker, a sales professional for Woodside.

“Our vision here is to give healthy living solutions—we call them Healthy Homes— for sophisticated buyers.”

The Healthy Homes concept involves everything from hospital-grade HVAC systems to materials that prevent mold, voiceactivated faucets and water filtration—all intended to help alleviate allergies and prevent the spread of germs. Couple that with options for solar and net-zero energy consumption, and you almost forget there are also stunning views of Bass Lake.

Another exemplary development is K Hovnanian Homes’ Hidden Lake at Serrano, which offers three designs of singlefamily homes ranging from 2,662 to 3,741 SPRING 2021

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Hidden Lake at Serrano by K Hovnanian Homes

Collina by Woodside Homes

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square feet and starting in the low $800,000s.

The unique feature floor plan includes an View from a custom lot Extra Suite or an Extra Suite Plus, designed with a focus on multi-generational families living together.

While Hidden Lake and Collina are more in the category of production or semi-custom homes, Serrano’s trademark feature—custombuilt luxury homes—is also alive and well, with the recent release of 50 new custom lots affectionately known as Village M. “These are very desirable lots,” says Parker Development Company Vice President Jim Parker. “They’re at the top of the hill and offer either fantastic views of Folsom Lake, or back right up to open space. They’re already graded and padded, meaning “These are very buyers can desirable lots,” says shave at least Parker Development $30,000 Company Vice off their President Jim Parker. development costs right “They’re at the top there.” of the hill and offer Lot prices either fantastic views range from of Folsom Lake or back $250,000 to right up to open space.” $550,000.

At press time, there were already reservations or contracts on about half the available lots, and Parker expects the remaining lots will move fast. Suffice to say, it’s been a banner year for custom home sales.

“There’s a lot of news about people fleeing the big cities for the suburbs, and we’re certainly seeing evidence of that here,” Parker says. “We’re expecting to close on three times as many sales this year as we did in the same time period last year. Custom lots are literally flying off the shelves.”

For more information on homes and lots available in Serrano, visit parkerdevco.com/ communities/serrano.

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IS YOUR PET

cuter than the rest?

PRESENTED BY

Cast your vote at PetFestSac.com February 11 - March 10, 2021.

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1/21/21 11:50 AM

SERRANO EL DORADO OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION

INTRODUCING

J U R D H E E B

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by KRISTIN CONNER photography by CHARM PHOTOGRAPHY/CHARLENE LANE and HEATHER INGRAHAM

S

errano El Dorado Owners’ Association Assistant General Manager Heather Ingraham always thought of herself as a “big” dog person, but she hadn’t yet met Behr, her now devoted 12-year-old Miniature Pinscher Chihuahua. That preference changed after she shared in his birth experience, and she has never looked back.

Born the smallest in a litter of six, Behr immediately stole Ingraham’s heart. “He looked like a little bear cub,” she says.

“He had these short little legs and a round belly with no hair.” As she watched Behr’s five siblings being adopted by new families, she had no reservations about bringing him home to live with her.

When Behr was about 9, he joined Ingraham in the office, where he is now an official member of the family, bringing joy to everyone around him. He earns his keep as the office “greeter” and “director of emotional regulations,” a role he takes very seriously. As a registered emotional support animal, Behr spends his days roaming through the office, ensuring his officemates are happy and well. If he senses anyone in emotional distress, he always finds ways to cheer them up. In true canine fashion, Behr also has sniffed out the “snackers,” ensuring he cleans up after them.

Known for his innate sense on the well-being of others, Behr also has earned admiration for his impeccable fashion style. Ingraham does not take credit for his dapper appearance. “After I was promoted, one of my officemates ordered a black tuxedo bow tie for Behr. He loved it and spent the rest of the day romping around the office showing it off,” she says. Much like Behr’s presence in the office became the norm, so did his chic attire.

Today, he sports a whopping 16 ties and two bow ties, all of which hang in orderly fashion on his tie rack at home.

When Behr isn’t checking on his officemates’ mental health, he burrows in his blanket on an executive chair in Ingraham’s office, all while keeping an eye on her. Their bond is strong, and their love for one another is obvious.

It’s not only Behr who brings Ingraham happiness. When asked about her thoughts on the best part of her job and her vision to serve, she says, “I really feel like it’s when we are improving our members’ experiences.” It’s pretty clear Behr is an important part of that overall vision—not just for the association’s employees and members, but for all who are lucky enough to walk through the doors of the Serrano El Dorado Owners’ Association.

Heather Ingraha m with Behr

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FOOTLOOSE IN THE FOOTHILLS

Fido- Friendly

Willis prepares for a ride

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y Adventures

by JOLAINE COLLINS photography by ROB COLLINS, GINA COX and PLACERVILLE ART GALLERY

If there’s one thing I’ve learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s that I really enjoy hanging out with my dog.

Luckily for dog lovers, as well as our canine companions, El Dorado County offers plenty of things to do with our fourlegged friends.

If you live in El Dorado Hills, you’re probably familiar with

The pond at 24 Carrot Farm

the dog-friendly patios at the El Dorado Saloon & Grill on Embarcadero Drive or The Purple Place on Green Valley Road, which offers a doggie menu that includes eggs, burgers, chicken and even apple slices with peanut butter. Perhaps you’ve even romped with your pup at the dog parks in El Dorado Hills or Cameron Park.

But when it’s time to sniff out some new adventures with Fido, consider heading east on Highway 50.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park allows leashed dogs on the grounds, hiking trails and around interpretive outdoor exhibits, but not in the buildings. Gold Bug Park and Mine has gold panning and hiking trails where dogs are welcome, but be aware they aren’t allowed in the gold mine.

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Main Street Placerville

Nyx at Lobos Del Mar

Johann Smit of Hidden Star Bakery and Taproom

Many El Dorado region family-owned wineries welcome well-behaved dogs on leashes. (Refer to the winery listing at eldoradowines.org or call ahead of your visit to ensure they are open and allow dogs.) It’s worth noting that wineries often have resident dogs and cats that freely roam their property, so encourage your dog to mind its manners.

Closer to Tahoe, there are hundreds of miles of scenic trails for you and your pooch to enjoy in the Eldorado National Forest and Desolation Wilderness.

In South Lake Tahoe, where it seems there’s a furry companion for just about every resident, you can bring your dog along for an outdoor adventure, or relax together on a restaurant or brew pub patio.

PLACERVILLE WITH THE POOCH My husband and I recently spent a day exploring Placerville, accompanied by our Sheltie, Nyx. We kept the itinerary loose, calling ahead to make sure our destinations were open and could accommodate dogs. Parking in the Main Street garage made it easy to explore the town on foot.

Sweetie Pie’s in the pink Victorian at 577 Main St. provided a cozy patio to begin the day. The family-owned restaurant is known for its baked goods and house-made menu items, including syrups, salsa and a variety of breads. (Tip: Pick up a loaf of apple cinnamon bread, or a jar of olallieberry jam to bring

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Edio Vineyard s at Delfi no Farm s

Sweetie Pie’s

24 Carrot Farm

home.) Our waitress cheerfully offered Nyx a water bowl and dog treat while we enjoyed breakfast.

If you’re in the mood for a grilled cheese sandwich and local beer, check out Main Street Melters, located next door to Sweetie Pie’s at 589 Main St. Its large, outdoor deck easily accommodates furry companions.

Following breakfast, we strolled down Main Street and discovered several fun shops, including the Lighthouse gift store with its tinkling wind chimes, and Lobos Del Mar, a fair trade clothing store featuring When the goods from Mexico and Central America. Closer to the parking structure, we found some cozy home goods at Kollective. All evenings grow long, were dog-friendly shops, but we asked before entering. look for Cider Sunset events on Friday nights, APPLE HILL FARMS featuring live music and Next, we drove to Apple Hill, knowing most of its local bakery treats made farms and ranches allow dogs on leashes. onsite by Shorty’s We enjoyed a stop at 24 Carrot Farm at 2731 Jacquier Rd., with its farm stand stocked with organic produce and goods Doughnuts. from local food purveyors, as well as seasonal U-pick produce and flowers. The small farm is located in a quieter area of Apple Hill, and while we were there, we spotted an egret fishing in the reeds of the pond and

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Zeus and Willis at Saluti Cellars

Hard cider from Hidden Star Bakery and Taproom

Willis takes in the breeze

deer passing through a field. Th roughout the season, 24 Carrot Farm’s U-pick options include strawberries, cherry tomatoes, pumpkins and flowers. We’ll make a point of returning for the U-pick experience this summer.

We ended the day by tasting a fl ight of hard ciders at Hidden Star Bakery and Tap Room at 2740 Cable Road in Camino, where the western views from the old barn’s deck are as expansive as the cider menu. Cider maker Johann Smit offers an adventurous list of more than 20 cleverly named ciders, including The Ginger Rogers which is infused with lemon, ginger and citrus; the Farmers Market Reserve, a classic cider made from 12 locally grown heirloom apple varieties; and Thunder & Lightening, a bourbon barrel-aged cider that derives its pleasant heat from ancho and jalapeño peppers.

Hidden Star offers outdoor seating, a miniature town and play area for kids, as well as plenty of open space for dogs. After being closed for the winter, the cider bar taproom plans to open again beginning March 1 (pending local county health orders) with Smit hoping to hold an Apple Hill Cider Festival this summer. When the evenings grow long, look for Cider Sunset events on Friday nights, featuring live music and bakery treats made onsite by Shorty’s Doughnuts.

Our foothills adventure ended when the sun went down, but we’ll be out exploring again, soon.

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Hidden Star Bakery and Taproom and Shorty’s Doughnuts

HOW TO BE DOG FRIENDLY

Will Boyd and Odie at Hidden Star Bakery and Taproo m

Looking to bring Fido on your next outing?

Keep these considerations in mind: ● Contact destinations in advance to confi rm they are open and dog friendly. There’s a list of local places under “things to do” at visit-eldorado.com. ● Out shopping? Before entering a store, ask the merchant if your canine can come in with you. If so, keep your pup on a tight lead. ● Even if you do it at home, it’s not cool to let Fido sit on a table where food or drinks are served. ● Keep your dog leashed and under your control—even at parks and on trails—unless it’s a designated off -leash location. ● BYOB (bring your own bowl), bags, water and treats, and remember to pick up after your pup. ● Never

leave your dog in a hot car.

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Tahoe Bound

What To Expect During a Color-Coded Ski Season

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t’s a year and a winter ski season we’ll all remember as being color-coded and spangled with COVID-19 restrictions that change, it seems, with every phase of the moon. Purple tier with stay-at-home restrictions this week, less restrictive red-tier guidelines the next—and yes, maybe we’ll get to yellow as the vaccines are arriving and the long nightmare is over.

Meanwhile, Gov. Gavin Newsom has enthusiastically endorsed outdoor recreation—including skiing and riding with household members—as low-risk activities that provide healthy, stress-relieving alternatives to being stuck indoors.

Tahoe resorts abruptly shut down last March when the pandemic hit, but industry officials spent all summer and millions of dollars figuring out collaboratively how to modify operations to meet ever-changing public health and safety guidelines on everything from masking and social distancing to sanitation and limiting on-mountain capacity to slow the spread. So far, it all seems to be working.

by JANET FULLWOOD photography by HEAVENLY, NORTHSTAR, SUGAR BOWL and SQUAW VALLEY/ALPINE MEADOWS

Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows

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“It’s really good to see everyone following the rules,” says Austin Metz, an avid skier who lives in Tahoe and skis Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows almost every day.

“You have to wait a little longer in line on weekends due to the way they’re spreading people out and loading the lifts, but it’s not bad.”

While each Tahoe resort has taken a slightly different approach to meeting COVID -19 guidelines, some aspects of this winter’s reimagined mountain experience are universal and very different than in years past. Walk-up ticket window sales, for example, are no longer available. You’ll have to order and purchase date-specific passes online in advance, and then redeem your voucher at a contactless kiosk or will-call window.

Sales are being limited and capped every day, with season pass holders and those guests reserving lessons, rentals or lodging having priority access. (Vail’s Tahoe resorts—Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood—are requiring reservations throughout the season.) It’s also now too late to get a season pass even if you want one.

Season pass sales ended at most resorts in November or early December (or, in the case of Sugar Bowl/Royal Gorge, in September).

“Skiing is one of the most low-risk activities you can do during COVID, and we have to do all we can to ensure everyone has a safe experience,” says Mike Reitzell, president of Ski California, a trade association representing 32 California and Nevada resorts.

The important thing, he adds, is to know what to expect before you go. “You can’t just show up; you have to show up with a plan.”

Once off the lift and on the hill, skiing and riding are inherently socially distanced, he notes (it’s hard, after all, to ski within 6 feet of another person). But on the ground, visitors are experiencing quite a noticeable difference than in years past.

For example, says Jon Slaughter, executive director of marketing and sales for Sugar Bowl/Royal Gorge, “we’ve installed RFID (radio frequency identification) gates especially for COVID.” (That means passes can

Sug ar Bowl

Squaw Valley/ Alpine Meadows

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Northstar

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stay in a skier’s pocket, and there is no more getting beeped by a staff member’s scanning gun.)

“We’ve also installed a ‘ghost lane’ between queues and put 6-foot markers on the ground to provide lateral distancing front and back,” he adds.

Masking requirements are as strict here as elsewhere: two-layer face coverings are required indoors and out except when actively skiing or riding, or when eating or drinking in designated areas. According to CDC guidelines, the usual single-layer neck gaiters don’t hack it.

Lift-loading procedures also have been modified. Families or parties traveling together can sit adjacent to each other, but otherwise, at least one empty seat is required between parties. Singles are being loaded on opposite ends of the chairlifts and can also request to ride alone.

Loading procedures on enclosed lifts also have been modified. For example, says Liesl Hepburn, communications manager for Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows, the resort’s high-speed Funitel lift is operating at just 25 percent capacity, with a maximum of seven pas-

sengers per cabin instead of the usual 20 to 30, while a ride up the mountain on the resort’s iconic aerial tram, usually packed shoulder to shoulder with 100-plus passengers, seems absolutely airy with a maximum of 25 people.

“Skiing is one “In terms of following the rules,” Hepburn says, “we’ve gotten a lot of the most low-risk of feedback. Everyone wants to see activities you can do during enforcement, and we’re getting a COVID, and we have to do all lot of cooperation with that.” we can to ensure everyone When it comes to food and bevhas a safe experience,” says erages, resort guests can expect a Mike Reitzell, president of lot of fluidity and adaptations as the Ski California, a trade season progresses and COVID tiers association representing morph from one level to the next.

32 California and The bottom line: stay abreast of pubNevada resorts. lic health updates via resort websites, apps and social media channels. Ski California has direct links to California’s resort updates at its website, skicalifornia.org/covid19.

Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows

Heavenly

Squaw Valley/ Alpine Meadows

Northstar

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eanwhile, here are some additional “knowbefore-you-go” tips. ● Food and beverage services will be adjusted as the season progresses. Expect pre-packaged “grab-andgo” options to be available for outdoor consumption.

You can also bring your own. On-mountain bars will be closed, but takeout wine and beer will be available (and, at Northstar, Heavenly or Squaw, you can always hop down to the base-area village for an après-ski libation).

Yes, you’ll be able to access restrooms and lockers! And, depending on the resort, the weather and the current COVID -19 color tier, short-term indoor “warming zones” also will be available. ●

● During stay-at-home orders, lodging may be limited to homeowners and critical infrastructure workers.

Be sure to check the guidelines before venturing to Tahoe.

● Lessons at most resorts will be limited to individuals or family groups, with no lunch service offered, at least for now. ● If you are renting equipment, you’ll need an advance appointment for a fitting.

You don’t need to visit a developed mountain resort to enjoy the snow this winter. California State Parks, in conjunction with the USDA Forest Service, Caltrans and other organizations, maintains 19 snow-cleared parking lots in the Sierra Nevada, and most of them are in the Tahoe area.

Groomed cross-country and snowshoe trails are provided, along with sledding and snowplay areas. A Sno-Park pass, $5 daily or $25 for the season, can be purchased online or from area vendors. Check it out at ohv.parks.ca.gov.

Squaw Valley/ Alpine Meadows

Sugar Bowl

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Squaw Valley/ Alpin e Meadows

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EL DORADO MUSICAL THEATRE

Reimagines Productions HIGH VOLTAGE IN THE MOVIES

by KRISTIN CONNER

There is no doubt the COVID-19 pandemic delivered many challenges this past year. Imagine you run a popular musical theatre that has been delighting audiences for nearly two decades when the country suddenly shut down. You have two options to consider: shut down, or find ways to continue engaging young minds and bodies by reimagining ways to deliver musical theatre in the middle of an unprecedented pandemic. The good news is the creative minds and caring leaders behind the El Dorado Musical Theatre (EDMT ) chose the second option, and we are excited to share how they are delivering music and dance to our entire community.

Prior to the pandemic, EDMT’s four main stage productions and three High Voltage performances were home to Stage One at the Harris Center for the Arts at Folsom Lake College. For those not familiar with EDMT, Danielle Levy, executive director, shares, “EDMT is a nonprofit performing arts organization where youth receive top level instruction in voice, acting, and dance SPRING 2021

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with the goal of building confidence for life through excellence in performing arts, training and productions. EDMT is also home to High Voltage—the theatre’s 18-member performance ambassadors who perform at Stage One, but who also take entertainment into our community.”

We sat down with EDMT Artistic Director Debbie Wilson and Anjie Rose Wilson, choreographer, jazz teacher and all things marketing and social media to chat about what they have been doing to keep musical theatre alive and well in 2020.

Please tell us about the impact the pandemic had on EDMT and how you were able to keep your youth performing.

Debbie: Our last performance was “Matilda the Musical” in February 2020, and our last training show was in March 2020, literally the weekend before the shelter-in-place mandates. In July, we decided to keep the group together to deliver our usual Cabaret show, but we had to figure out how to do that, so we decided to film it!

Production and Set Designer Zachary Wilson

“

We’re very fortunate to have found a way to keep our passion alive and active while still being safe and cautious.

It’s been a rewarding experience to provide a little bit of joy in a time where all seems lost, though that’s what we do best!”

—Izzy Weaver, 4th year member

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On set for High Voltage in the Movies

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High Voltage in the Movies

How were you able to film a live performance and deliver it?

We rented a 10,000-square-foot warehouse in Cameron Park. Then we set up a green screen and black backdrops and essentially built a film studio. Initially we filmed the group performing and then we incorporated special effects elements that reimagined what we would have performed on stage. This allowed us to create a live movie production.

Anjie: It’s really quite remarkable the way it all came together. Initially our High Voltage group learned the vocals and choreography. Once they mastered that, they individually recorded their audio, which was ultimately compiled into 19 tracks and mixed with the harmonies. The final step was to record the video to coincide with their singing.

Debbie:

When did you premiere “High Voltage in the Movies”?

Anjie: We were able to hold a socially distanced, in-person premiere prior to releasing the movie on Vimeo in early October last year. It was really special having families there. Everyone was masked and able to share in this unique experience.

How does the community access the movie, and how long will it be available?

The website is edmt.info/hv_in_the_movies_2020/, and it will be available for the foreseeable future!

Debbie:

“

It was exciting to explore new possibilities and create something very special and different than what our people—both the audience and cast—are used to. This was an opportunity to expand what we know and what we do and to broaden the horizons of how we can engage with an audience, and I think we did just that.”

“

I know this was a huge challenge for the group who has little experience in front of the camera, but you couldn’t tell on screen. I think that reflects just how adaptable this group is. It’s meticulous work getting the shot just right and the amount of times I had to call for numerous takes would get exasperating. You can imagine how not having a live performance led to so many barriers which required us to be more particular about dancing and movements. But they held it together, and I couldn’t be more proud of their hard work.”

—Ryan Van Overeem, Director of Photography

—Zach Wilson, 12th year member

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Have you released any other productions since the pandemic started?

Yes, we created a High Voltage Christmas special in mid-December that highlighted our members simulating being at a holiday party. Some of the songs were performed as though they were at the party; others were in a dream sequence.

Anjie: They rehearsed their holiday songs and dances in masks for six weeks and 6 feet apart. We then filmed the production and released it in time for the holidays!

Debbie:

What would you like to say about your High Voltage performers?

Anjie: They’ve worked so hard and had to learn so many things very quickly.

They’ve been rising to the challenge every single time, and we are grateful for them!

High Voltage—EDMT's premier performing group

“

Diving back into the world of performing gave me overwhelming feelings of hope and optimism during this darkened time. The overall experience of switching the concept of live theatre to the screen was extremely eye opening, and many concepts of performing live took on a whole new perspective while developing a film. I have always considered EDMT my second home and the other half of my family. Words can not describe how grateful I am for the organization, and the opportunities they give to not only me but to a deserving community.”

—Emily Hobbs, 4th year member

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EL DORADO COUNTY STUDENTS:

Resilient, Brilliant and Hopeful

t

by DR. ED MANANSALA

DR. ED MANANSALA

EL DORADO COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION SUPERINTENDENT

The New Year brings with it the hope for a bright future. Th is past year has been uniquely difficult for all of us, and I am constantly encouraged by everything that has been achieved in the midst of this crisis. El Dorado County students, especially, can look back at this moment as a period of resilience. The strength of our students is inspiring. We reached out to a few of these incredible students and asked them to share their voice and reflections from the past year.

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● Grace

Bolognini 5th grader, Oak Meadow Elementary How has this time been challenging for you?

I miss my sports and activities. My in-school learning is only a few hours a day, and my teacher really has to focus on academics, so we don’t get to do a lot of the fun extra things we used to do.

How have you remained strong and persevered?

I just try to look forward to things I am able to do and hope that things will get back to normal soon.

Who has supported you in this time?

My family, my friends, my coaches and my teacher. My teacher really goes out of her way to make things as fun and interesting as she can. She teaches lessons about probability and statistics, and we use the information to guess who’s going to win Thursday night football games. My whole family gets involved.

What do you hope for in 2021 for you and your classmates?

I hope that everyone stays safe and healthy, and that we can return to school full time and have our 5th grade promotion on campus. I hope we can do more activities and sports and return to normal. ● Audrey B. 8th grader, Pleasant Grove Middle School

How has this time been challenging for you?

I was supposed to go on a student trip to Washington D.C. and New York last year, and that got postponed. Communication with my teachers is different, and getting used to all the different platforms for my

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assignments has been hard. I only go to school about three hours each day and there’s a lot less social time than before.

How have you remained strong and persevered?

the loss of our senior year, in a way.

But I see the resilience of my class and my peers. Hopefully we can get back to some sense of normal. It was difficult to get motivated to get out of bed for a Zoom class.

I do like being able to come home How have you remained strong and persevered? early and get my homework done.

I started drifting away from I call my friends so we can work watching the news. It kept giving on math together. I also get to go me a negative outlook about how to gymnastics practice for four the future is going to be. I knew I hours every day. We have to wear wanted to change my outlook and masks, and there’s tape all over the focus on finding creative floor, so we’re 6 feet apart. But ways to enjoy my gymnastics is one of the senior year and normal things I get to I do have faith time with my do, and a lot about that some semblance friends. this year hasn’t of normalcy will come been normal.

Who has back into our lives. We supported Who has need to stay positive you in this supported you in time? and vigilant. Everyone this time?

My big brother.

My friends and my can help us get back He is a prefamily, at gymnastics to being normal. med student in and at school. They’re Berkeley.

He checks very supportive. My parents in with me all the time, remind me to do things a good even though he’s so busy studying amount to help me stay on top of for exams. He is always checking on things. my mental health. Since he works What do you hope for in 2021 for in some of the labs, he is able to you and your classmates? give me updates. He’s also good at I hope we’ll be able to go back to giving me ideas about how we can normal school, have normal class work with the guidelines to have safe sizes and lunch times. Obviously, I meet-ups with friends. hope there will be a vaccine. I hope What do you hope for in 2021 for I will be able to go on my trip to you and your classmates?

Washington, too.

I hope we can get some aspect of our senior year back. Maybe an outdoor ● Abhi Paluru prom or an outdoor graduation. I Oak Ridge High School hope we can have a sports season. senior and ASB president This is our last time for things, and it means so much more when you’re How has this time been challenging for you? a senior. I do have faith that some semblance of normalcy will come It was devastating when we found out back into our lives. We need to stay most of our senior year would be cancelled. It really took a toll on us, positive and vigilant. Everyone can and we had to deal with the grief for help us get back to being normal.

SERRANO SPRING 2021

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