DLM (February) by The DLM

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Dear Reader,

’ve heard it over and over again. I’ve heard it from people from Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Portland and San Francisco. Artists and musicians who find themselves in Merced on their journey through California always say the same thing — “Wow.”

There’s nothing better as an event promoter than to hear those words, which are usually followed with something like “I had no idea” or “when can I come back?” Last month we hosted a talented couple of singer/songwriters at a house show. Chris Brokaw and Jennifer O’Connor landed in California from the East Coast and were on their way North to San Francisco and Sacramento. They played in front of a full house and an attentive crowd. By the time they left the next morning Brokaw was planning a stop in Merced on his next tour. A few weeks later we screened an indie documentary at the Multicultural Arts Center produced by a pair of filmmakers in Los Angeles. One of them traveled to Merced for the screening and when the night was over he had some very kind words. “There’s something really special going on here. You’re onto something,” he said. It’s these moments that make me proud to be a Mercedian and to be a participant in the development of our artistic community. He’s right, we are onto something and I hope everybody who reads this makes a conscious decision to support our local artists by attending a concert or a play or visiting the Multicultural Arts Center. Find a way to participate.

Editor & Publisher

The Players PUBLISHER: Tom Price tom@thedlm.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Janna Rodriguez janna@thedlm.com ADVERTISING MANAGER: Samantha Yniguez samantha@thedlm.com CONTENT EDITOR: Nathan Quevedo nathan@thedlm.com WEB GURU: Kenneth Nelson kenneth@thedlm.com DISTRIBUTION: Donna Nelson donna@thedlm.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & EDITORS: Ben Davidson, Karen Nicholson, Matt Robinson, Theresa Hong, CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Juno Appleseed, Megann Ward, Wil Mathews

The Cover COVER: Logan Loader, Team Cash Call PHOTOGRAPHER: Contributed Photo

Issue #41 Volume #3

Find Us

WEBSITE: www.thedlm.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/thedlm TWITTER: www.twitter.com/downtownlifemag EMAIL: info@thedlm.com ADVERTISING: 209-568-6363 EDITORIAL: 209-777-6176 SNAIL MAIL: PO BOX 1604 Merced CA, 95341

CONTENTS

KRS-One 10

A hip-hop legend will be performing in Merced for the first time on Feb. 23 at The Partisan.

THE LEDE 08

Broadway Sing-Off returns to Playhouse Merced; Weaver Elementary performs “Little Mermaid.”

CYCLING CLASSIC 23-33 Official program for the 20th running of the MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic.

MC GALLERY 12

Merced College Art Gallery showcasing pair of Bay Area artists.

NICK JAINA 14

Portland’s Nick Jaina stop by Merced during house show circuit.

THE HOBBIT 16

Playhouse Merced visits Middle-earth with production of Tolkien classic.

HAMLET 18

Merced Shakespearefest takes on Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy.

Downtown Life Magazine is a monthly publication distributed downtown and at more than 90 other locations, including: UC Merced, Merced College, Raley’s grocery store and every Starbucks Coffee Company in Merced and Atwater. 5,000 DLM magazines are distributed every month. For more information, go to www.thedlm.com

the lede Events in and around Merced

Photo by Meganne Ward Contestants G.B. Blackmon III, and Jilliann Giacolone embrace after finding out they made it another week.

Broadway Sing-Off continues in absence of late host Cervantes

Playhouse Merced’s Broadway Sing-Off is back on Sundays through Feb. 17. The brainchild of Playhouse Merced board member Valiant Reyes, the Sing-Off came to him while he was watching Playhouse Merced’s other live game show, “Drama Island.” “I love the shows like American Idol and The Voice,” says Reyes, “there is something so incredible about watching those young, amateur singers taking their shot and nailing a song.” So last year, Broadway Sing-Off debuted with the late Chenté Cervantes hosting, and panel of judges: Reyes, plus Playhouse Merced artistic director Rob Hypes Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

and performer Dianne Kocher. “Sort of our version of Randy Jackson, Simon Cowell, and Paula Abdul,” chuckles Reyes. This season, like on the X Factor or The Voice, changes have occurred. Cervantes passed away unexpectedly last summer and left a hole in the hosting duties. Reyes will be filling in as host. “It’s daunting to be replacing Chenté” says Valiant. “He was such a great guy and a fantastic host with such a natural way with the contestants. I hope I can do half as well.” Returning judges Hypes, Shade and Kocher are joined this by Darrel Lingenfelter, former Atwater High School

band director, and piano player extraordinaire. Lingenfelter brings to the mix 40-plus years of experience, both in bands and theater. The contestants on this season’s show are GB Blackmon III, Elena Carter, Justin Choi, Jilliann Giacalone, Bethy Harmelin, Melina Hunter, Stephen Mouillesseaux and Loretta Spence. Each week they will be given a theme or task and are expected to rehearse the song by the time the next episode rolls around. Broadway Sing-Off 2013 runs at 7 p.m. every Sunday through Feb. 17. Admission is a role of the dice ($1-6). www.thedlm.com

the lede Events in and around Merced

Weaver students perform ‘Little Mermaid’ More than 50 students in the Weaver Union School District have been delving under the sea most days after school since mid-August. These students are part of the school district’s production of “The Little Mermaid Jr.” Public performances will be held Friday, March 1, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 2, at 1 and 7 p.m. and school performances for students will be held Wednesday, Feb. 27 through March 1 in the morning. “Drama students learn a number of skills through the process of auditioning, rehearsing and doing the show,” says Jeff Sanders, teacher at Weaver and director of the musical. “Most will memorize lines, stage directions, songs and dances. In the end, they will perform in front of audiences of up to 1,100 people. Every child will have a different experience, but some of these students will gain so much in confidence and skill that it will change their future in a positive way.” Auditions for the musical began after school started in mid-August (Weaver is on a slightly different track than most school districts). The first round of auditions takes place at each

A Drag Double Feature at Merced Theatre

Merced Full Spectrum, a local LGBT awareness group, in conjunction with the Merced Theatre will be screening two classic films starting at 7 p.m. on Feb. 8 at the Merced Theatre.

Photo by Nathan Quevedo From left, Randu Terrazas, 12, 7th grade, plays Prince Eric, Jaden Phillips, 11, 6th grade, performs as Sebastian and Lydia Lumley, 11, 6th grade, stars as Ariel, in Weaver Middle School’s production of “The Little Mermaid Jr.”

of the three school sites in the district. At this audition, all students sing a short excerpt from the same song and do a brief dance routine they have learned. Around 60 students auditioned at each of the schools — nearly 180 total. About 100 students were selected to continue to the next round of auditions where they are given songs and scenes specific to a role. All students are considered for all roles, regardless of what part they are given to use during auditions.

Students are then selected for roles and rehearsal begins. Rehearsal takes place three days a week after school. While some students practice acting, dancing or singing, other students stay after school to help make props or set pieces. There are 56 students, from grades 4-8, with roles in the show and seven students assisting as the stage crew. Tickets are $8 and available at all schools in the Weaver district and at the theater for each performance.

They will be showing “Priscilla: Queen of the Desert” and “Birdcage.” “Priscilla” is a 1994 Australian comedy-drama that follows the journey of two drag queens and a transsexual woman across the Australian Outback in a tour bus that they have named “Priscilla.”

“Birdcage” is a 1996 comedy about a gay cabaret owner and his drag queen companion who agree to put up a false straight front so that their son can introduce them to his fiancée’s right-wing moralistic parents. Cost is $10 for both movies and it’s half off if you come dressed in drag.

Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Music KRS-One

Contributed Photo Hip hop pioneer KRS-One will be performing at The Partisan on Feb. 23.

Legend lands in Merced KRS-One to play Partisan on February 23

ne of hip-hops most outspoken, pivotal and controversial voices, KRS-One, is coming to Downtown Merced. With nearly 20 full-length albums and a career that spans back to the 1980s, the American rapper of Jamaican descent has received numerous honors and accolades for his effort towards the Stop the Violence Movement as well as the overall pioneering of hip-hop music and culture. The ackronym KRSOne stands for Knowledge Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone. In the 1990s, as hip-hop grew more commercialized and corporate, KRS-One who openly rejected the cultural exploitation and grounded music and culture style to its original principles of peace, love, unity and safely having fun. “It’s an honor to help some one like KRS-One continue to grow the art form he was at the forefront of in its early stages,” says James Deans, aka Destructobunny, whose production group Yoga for Your

Ears organized the show. “He embodies everything hip-hop is and stands for: knowledge of self.” The hip-hop legend gained notoriety for his staunch opposition to commercial music, being featured in songs from artists from a variety of other styles and strong stance on social and cultural issues. KRS-One will perform at The Partisan on Feb. 23. Tickets are $10 and available online at www.brownpapertickets.com. For more information on the show, check out The Partisan on Facebook. www.thedlm.com

BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER

1720 G Street • (209) 383-2558 OPEN DAILY 6:30 AM to 9 PM

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Artist Profile Roz Ritter and Mari Bergstedt

Biotapestry exhibit to open at Merced College

vintage Brownie costume hangs with its traditional chocolate brown color contrasting off the white paint on the wall. A massive orange tie pertrudes from the collar and falls all the way to the ground where it is rolled out flat. Embroidered on the tie are images from a 1940s Brownies handbook. Bay Area artist Roz Ritter tells stories through what she calls biotapestry. She will be showing her work along with Mari Bergstedt from Feb. 19 through March 14 at the Merced College Art Gallery. “I embroidered those pictures from the handbook and they represent ways I was taught to be raised, sewing, cooking, cleaning, going to church and living at home in the suburbs,” says Ritter. “The reason I have the tie so long is to represent that weight we feel on how we are supposed to be.” The piece she says is still in progress. The next step will be to show what really happened. “I will include some photographs of me in the 70s living in a teepee,” she laughs. Ritter says the purpose of all her work in this show is to explore and pay homage to her family through visual storytelling. She is inspired by her grandmother Julie, who was a seamstress in the summer palace of Franz Joseph during the Ottoman Empire. And she says her father. Lew, was a haberdahser to the stars. Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Contributed Photo The Brownie Costume by Roz Ritter is a bio-tapestry piece featuring images from a 1940s Brownie handbook.

Bergstedt is more of a conceptual artist. The work she will be showing is the reconstruction of her childhood memories using deconstructred, torn and degenerating antique pieces combined with new fiber, wire and button work. One of her pieces is a sculpture of woman made almost completely out of buttons. “Growin up as a foster child I obsessively observed other people’s lives, looking everywhere for individuals and families in harmony,”

says Bergstedt. “Knitting, crocheting and sewing provided a framework for my daydreams and gave a sense of order to my life.” The reception for the show will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 20 at the Merced College Art Gallery. The show will run from Feb. 19 through March 14. The gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. For more information, contact Susanne French, gallery coordinator at (209) 384-6064. www.thedlm.com

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Music Nick Jaina

Contributed Photo

nick jaina

Portland’s Nick Jaina will perform at a DLM Live house show on Feb. 15.

Portland songwriter treads into unfamiliar waters

Words by Nathan Quevedo nathan@thedlm.com

ick Jaina has expanded his repertoire during the past few years. He wrote the score for film “Cement Suitcase,” composed an original ballet with the Satellite Collective, which features dancers from the New York City Ballet, is the composer and musical director for a play in New Orleans called “Girls Who Drew Horses” and has a new album due out in April. Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

www.thedlm.com

In between all of this, he’s taken piano, guitar, percussion and music theory lessons. Jaina says there are several reasons for branching out into so many areas. “What I’ve been trying to do is invest in my infrastructure,” says the 35-year-old during a phone interview from his home base of Portland. “Part of the idea (for guitar lessons) is that I’ve been touring solo somewhat and I wanted to be able to give a more compelling show.” Jaina is scheduled to play in a three-piece acoustic group for a DLM Live house show on Feb. 15 at The Olive House. (Check Facebook for more details) “I have actually never even

what it’s going to be like,” he says. “The best host is one that knows what goes into planning a show.” Back to his recent deluge of lessons, the city of Portland was actually a sponsor behind this endeavor. “I actually got a grant from the Regional Arts and Culture Council in Portland,” says Jaina. “I wrote a proposal and got a little bit of money to take lessons.” He was ready for something new, something that wouldn’t come so easily. “If you’re just singing pop songs in a band, you’re not challenged musically,” he says. “For me it’s a craft — songwriting and making better music.” Jaina marvels at the thought

like ‘here’s everything I know.’ ” He also wanted the process to be more organic and not contrived, like most studio sessions are. “This time I tried really casually setting up recording dates,” Jaina says. “Sometimes I would have eight people in the studio and people would make up their own parts as we went along. The engineer would just set up microphones.” He says he wanted it to be a flow of ideas and to make the overall experience a satisfying one. Jaina says an important question he asked himself in the studio was “ ‘How can we make fun the first priority?’ That’s a lot more fun than ‘play

“If you’re just singing pop songs in a band, you’re not challenged musically. For me it’s a craft — songwriting and making better music.” — Nick Jaina

met one of them,” he says laughing. “I know Danah, the cellist, and she plays with Spirits (of the Red City). “I ran into Danah in Denver … and we were talking about stuff we can do and she said you should come to Northern California and play some house shows,” he continues. “We’re gonna start out at Folsom Prison … I’ve played at some prisons in Oregon and it’s a pretty amazing experience.” Jaina, who’s been on multiple West Coast and national tours, says he can tell immediately if a house show will be a success. “You can pretty much tell right when you get to the house

of the new directions he has embarked on. “It’s pretty amazing to write ballet music and have these beautiful, talented dancers perform music that I came up with in my head,” he says. “I’ve gotten to work with dancers from the NYC, which are some of the best in the world.” Discussing his new album “Primary Perception,” Jaina says he didn’t want to show off. “I learned how to score string arrangements … I don’t know exactly what ways that shows up on this record,” he says laughing. “I didn’t want to be so obvious and intellectual

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

exactly like this and do these parts.’ ” Jaina said he’s excited to head out on the road with a full band in the Spring in support of the new album. When asked about Portland musicians he works with, Jaina says he can’t seem to be in the right place at the right time. “I’m really good at not meeting really important people that I should meet,” he says laughing. Check out Nick Jaina with Willy Tea and Michael Clark at the DLM Live House Show on Feb. 15. Tickets are $10, for more information, visit www.thedlm.com. Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Theater The Hobbit

Photo by Meganne Ward Jake Nelson holds the precious ring during Playhouse Merced performance of “The Hobbit.”

The Hobbit here and Back Aga urney T in o J A

ull disclosure. The last time I read J.R.R. Tolkien’s book “The Hobbit” was 35 years ago in high school English class. It wasn’t a love connection. That world of mythical creatures and epic travel across vast fantasy landscapes just did not connect with me. Over time, I have become familiar enough with some of the iconic characters. Bilbo Baggins is a cuddly, friendly hobbit. Gandalf is a tall bearded wizard. Gollum Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Words by Jim Kocher jim@showbizjobs.com

is a creepy, stringy creature that purrs “my precious.” There are dwarves, goblins, trolls, elves, soldiers and trees that live and fight in a place called Middle-earth. Yet for every one of me, the guy with limited imagination, millions of fans adore Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” books and know the folklore within them backward and forward. For me, It would require some research to be able to take the journey. Over

the Misty Mountains, into the forest of Mirkwood and down into the Brandywine River to find out what makes the Tolkien books so popular. What drove Mike Kittel, Playhouse Merced’s associate artistic director to bring the live version of “The Hobbit” to the Playhouse Merced stage, and to direct the show as well? A bit of background. “The Hobbit” was written as a children’s book in 1937 by British author J.R.R. Tolkien. www.thedlm.com

It tells the tale of the aforementioned Bilbo Baggins and his adventures through the fictional land called Middleearth as he tries to win a portion of treasure guarded by the dragon Smaug. Mike Kittel first read “The Hobbit” as a high school sophomore and was instantly taken with the characters, settings and adventures. “Some of the scenes I found absolutely terrifying,” she admits. “But I loved it.” Kittel really gears up when she starts talking about “The Hobbit.” Grinning ear to ear, she rattles off bits and pieces of Tolkien trivia, (“J.R.R.” stands for John Ronald Reuel. He served in World War I, losing most of his friends in battle, declared himself a misanthrope and in his later years was a bit of a hermit, casting aside his popularity received from the books. There’s no doubt, Kittel is passionate about “The Hobbit.” “By the way,” she explains. “We’re not nerds. We’re Tolkienists.” Noted. Playhouse Merced’s unit set designed by production designer Corey Strauss, allows it to become the many different locations on Bilbo’s adventures. “We have created several different levels and playing areas, with staircases and places that the actors can make entrances and exits,” says Chris Battisti, assistant technical director. When the right lighting is added and the magic of live theatre, the set can become all the various places around Middle-earth. The cast is equally passionate about “The Hobbit.” More than 70 people

came out to audition for the production. “That really blew me away.” says Kittel “Lots of new people who really wanted to be a part of this show because they also enjoy the books.” Leading that cast is Jake Nelson who plays the part of Bilbo Baggins. Nelson, 20, has participated in Playhouse shows as a Conservatory member, and was most recently in “9 to 5: The Musical” and “A Few Good Men.” With Zach Ellis as Gandalf and Smaug, Jeshamon Volkerts as Gollum, the epic-sized cast expands to more than 30 actors. Playhouse Merced’s production is also designed to be family-friendly and great for all ages. With all those hobbits and dwarves and elves, there are some epic battle scenes and some dramatic moments including Gollum and Smaug the dragon. But, Kittel reassures parents and grandparents that young people will be delighted by the live version of “The Hobbit.” “With any luck,” she says. “Maybe it will lead them back to the original book, which would be fantastic.” While I may not remember what an Arkenstone is, it is clear that 76 years after it was first published, Bilbo and his friends are as popular and beloved as ever. Let us raise a flagon of Miruvor and salute J.R.R. Tolkien, and Playhouse Merced’s production of “The Hobbit.” Anyone got some cram? Playhouse Merced presents “The Hobbit” through Feb. 17. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. For tickets call (209) 725-8587 or playhousemerced.com).

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

xxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx

Hamlet

Merced Shakespearefest takes on Shakespeare’s most well-known tragedy

Words by Tom Price tom@thedlm.com

e drops to his knees, clutches the young woman’s shoulder and erupts into his passionate, anger-fueled dialogue. The half dozen actors leaning against the wall in Merced Shakespearefest’s rehearsal room for “Hamlet” are hushed and fixated on the two actors sprawled out on the floor in the middle of the room. Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

www.thedlm.com

Theatre Hamlet Hamlet, played by Colton Dennis, is ending his engagement with Emily Wilson’s Ophelia in a physical and emotionally draining scene. His eyes stare with the furiosity of a wild animal stalking its prey and the veins bulge from his neck as he delivers his lines: “If thou dost marry, I’ll give thee this plague for thy dowry: be thou as chaste as ice, as pure as snow, thou shalt not escape calumny. Get thee to a nunnery, go, farewell. Or, if thou wilt needs marry, marry a fool; for wise men know well enough what monsters you make of them. To a nunnery, go, and quickly too. Farewell.” For Dennis, the opportunity to play the title role in Merced Shakespearefest’s “Hamlet” was somewhat of a last chance for the veteran actor. “Hamlet is one of those pivotal roles for an actor,” says Dennis who last performed in Merced in August 2011 in “Much Ado About Nothing.” He is currently the Artistic Director at the Patterson Repretory Theatre. “This was probably my last chance to play Hamlet. I’m getting too old. Playing Lier will be the next stage.” “Hamlet” is widely regarded as Shakespeare’s most well-known tragedy and features many quotes that are commonly used in the English language. “It’s a lot of pressure to perform this play because so many people know the play,” says Dennis. “The challenge is to still make this character my own. I want to draw from my own experiences and find what works and I don’t think I will know that is until that

Photos by Tom Price From left, Hamlet (Colton Dennis) and Ophelia (Emily Wilson), break off their would-be engagement in an emotional and physical scene of heartbreak and anger.

moment.” “Hamlet” covers many themes from revenge to sorrow and political intrigue to insanity, while weaving the story of Prince Hamlet, who is called upon to avenge the death of his father the King of Denmark. Hamlet’s internal battle with these themes easily makes him one of Shakespeare’s most complex characters. “I see Hamlet as a cerebral and intelligent man who is witty, ironic and he can play with words like no other,” says Heike Hambley, the play’s director. Hambley has added some unique twists to her “Hamlet.” It will take place in modern day and will be performed in front of a very intimate audience at the Merced Multicultural Arts Center. “This story is so intense and the Arts Center crowd will be right up to the stage,” says Wilson, another veteran of the Merced Shakespearefest.

Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/thedlm

“It will be amazing to see in person.” In total there are 19 actors performing in the play ranging in age from 16 to 70. Eleven of the actors are from out of town with some traveling more than 40 minutes to be a part of the play. “At first I was concerned that we were working with so many actors not from Merced,” says Hambley. “In the meantime, I see it as a good sign that we are getting known in the region as a place where good Shakespeare is produced. And those actors will bring audiences from out of town to our Downtown Merced.” Hamlet will run Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. from Feb. 22 through March 3 at the Multicultural Arts Center. Tickets are $10 general admission and $5 for students and children and can be purchased at the Arts Center or by calling (209) 723-3265. Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

FEBRUARY EVENTS

Recurring Events

MUSIC AT J&R TACOS

WHAT: Patty Lou and the Flower Pots entertain at J&R Tacos. WHEN: 7:31 p.m., Every Wednesday WHERE: Playhouse Merced INFO: Facebook

COFFEE BANDITS OPEN MIC WHAT: Local talent showcasing their skills. WHEN: 8 p.m., 1st and 3rd Wednesday of month WHERE: Coffee Bandits INFO: Facebook

PARTISAN OPEN MIC

WHAT: Local talent showcasing their skills. WHEN: 8 p.m., Every Monday WHERE: The Partisan INFO: Facebook

BRAINGAZM

WHAT: Pub trivia game. Groups compete in rounds of trivia and physical challenges to win prizes. WHEN: 9 p.m.,Every Tuesday WHERE: The Partisan INFO: Facebook

POETRY JAM

WHAT: Local poets read and share their work. WHEN: 8 p.m., 4th Wednesday WHERE: Coffee Bandits INFO: Facebook

CONJUNTOS

WHAT: An artist, poet and musician create improvised work on the spot WHEN: Last Sunday of every month. WHERE: J&R Tacos INFO: Facebook

BAD FICTION NIGHT

We need your help, send us your event information to: tom@thedlm.com or call (209) 777-6176

WHAT: What is the worst thing you’ve ever read? Come share with the group WHEN: 2nd Wed of month WHERE: Coffee Bandits INFO: Facebook

FARMER’S MARKET

WHAT: Certified Farmer’s Market in Downtown Merced. WHEN: 8 a.m.-Noon, every Saturday WHERE: 18th and N Street INFO: http://www.mercedcfm.com

13 Shut Up N Smile

Downtown Bus Schedule

WHAT: Come learn the basics of figure drawing with the very merry people of Shut up and Smile! All ages welcome. WHEN: 6 p.m. WHERE: Coffee Bandits (309 W. Main Street.) COST: FREE INFO : Facebook

14 Dinner and a Movie

WHAT: Enjoy Cocktails and Dinner (Calamari Steak/Linquine w/Clam Sauce) for Valentine’s Day at the Italo Lodge and screening of “Letters to Juliet” at the Merced Theatre. WHEN: Dinner 6:30 p.m.; Movie 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Dinner at the Italo Lodge (1351 W. 18th Street); Movie at the Merced Theatre (301 W. Main Street) COST: $20 INFO : (209) 723-8541

15 DLM House Show

WHAT: DLM Live presents a house concert featuring Nick Jaina, Willy Tea Taylor and Mike Clark. WHEN: 7 p.m. WHERE: The Olive House COST: $10 (www.brownpapertickets.com) INFO : www.thedlm.com

16 Gearbox

WHAT: Local rock group Gearbox with Bus Stop Boxer. WHEN: 9 p.m. WHERE: The Partisan (432 W. Main Street) COST: $5 INFO : www.partisanmerced.com

20 MC Gallery reception

WHAT: The Merced College Art Gallery reception for “Relativism” — The theory that truth is an ethical relative to the individual or group that holds it. Mari Bergstedt and Roz Ritter. WHEN: 6-7:30 p.m. with artist talk at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Merced College Art Gallery (22240 California 152) COST: Free INFO: www.mcc.org

22-Mar. 3 Shakespearefest

WHAT: Merced Shakespearefest presents “Hamlet.” WHEN: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. WHERE: Mullticultural Arts Center (645 W. Main Street) COST: Adults $10, Students $5 INFO: (209) 723-3265 or www.mercedshakespearefest.org

23 KRS-One at the Partisan

WHAT: Hip-hop legend KRS-One performing with Atlatis Rizing, Defiant Strike Crew, Jusumone, Dthamc, UnkoolKiddz and DJ Chill Zo. WHEN: 8 p.m. WHERE: The Partisan (432 W. Main Street) COST: $10 (www.brownpapertickets.com) INFO : www.partisanmerced.com

Monday through Friday

Departure times for a few popular bus stops on the UC Merced/Downtown loop Route 22

Location

Times

Main & K Street (Hollywood Theater)

7:18, 7:48, 8:18, 8:48, 9:18, 9:58, 10:28, 10:58, 11:28, 11:58, 12:38, 1:08, 1:48, 2:18, 2:48, 3:33, 4:03, 4:33, 5:03, 5:48, 6:18

Merced College (M Street)

7:30, 8:00, 8:30, 9:10, 9:40, 10:10, 10:40, 11:10, 11:40, 12:20, 1:00, 1:30, 2:00, 2:30, 3:00, 3:45, 4:15, 4:45, 5:15, 6:00, 6:30

Paulson & Yosemite (Starbucks)

7:38, 8:08, 8:38, 9:18, 9:48, 10:18, 10:48, 11:18, 11:48, 12:28, 12:20, 1:00, 1:30, 2:00, 2:30, 3:00, 3:45, 4:15, 4:45, 5:15, 6:00, 6:30

UC Merced Kolligian Library (Arrival)

7:43, 8:13, 8:43, 9:23, 9:53, 10:23, 10:53, 11:23, 11:53, 12:33, 1:13, 1:43, 2:13, 2:43, 3:13, 3:58, 4:28, 4:58, 5:28, 6:13, 6:43

UC Merced Kolligian Library (Departure)

7:45, 8:15, 8:45, 9:25, 9:55, 10:25, 10:55, 11:25, 12:05, 12:35, 1:15, 1:45, 2:15, 3:00, 3:30, 4:00, 4:30, 5:15, 5:45

Paulson & Yosemite (Starbucks)

7:50, 8:20, 8:50, 9:30, 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:10, 12:40, 1:20, 1:50, 2:20, 3:05, 3:35, 4:05, 4:35, 5:20, 5:50

Merced College (M Street)

7:57, 8:27, 8:57, 9:37, 10:07, 10:37, 11:07, 11:37, 12:17, 12:47, 1:27, 1:57, 2:27, 3:12, 3:42, 4:42, 4:12, 4:42, 5:27, 5:57

Friday & Saturday Nights

Departure times for a few popular bus stops on the UC Merced/Downtown loop (10 p.m.-2:35 a.m.) NiteCat Line Location

Times

UC Merced Kolligian Library (Arrival)

10:04, 11:14, 12:24, 1:34

Merced Mall Theatre

10:28, 11:38, 12:48, 1:58

Main & M Street (Hollywood Theater)

10:46, 11:56, 1:06, 2:16

Scholars Lane

11:05, 12:15, 1:25, 2:35

Morning

Afternoon & Evening

For complete schedule go to www.cattracks.org

OFFICIAL PROGRAM OF THE 2013 MERCO CREDIT UNION CYCLING CLASSIC PresENTED BY MERCY MEDICAL CENTER

CATCHING UP Will this be the year a team other than Bissell dominates the headlines?

Photos by Wil Mathews Patrick Beven hoists the Merco Credit Union Cycling Classic trophy after finishing first overall at the 2012 race. Tom Zirbel (left) finished second and Logan Loader (right) finished third in the overall standings. All three cyclists will be back for the 2013 race.

hen it comes to the MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic, it’s Bissell Pro Cycling and everybody else.

Last year it was Patrick Bevin who dominated the podium with two stage wins to go with his overall title and the year before it was Ben Jacques-Maynes who had one stage win and finished in the Top 3 in two others. In each of those years Bissell took home the team title and Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

dominated the field. Bissell will once again enter this year’s Classic as favorites, but there is competition brewing with a handful of teams emerging as contenders. Team Cash Call, already a team on the rise, added a new face this year that could have them squaring up against the big boys all season long. Logan Loader, a 22-year-old veteran of the MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic, joined the team during the offseason, leaving the Exergy team he competed with last year. Loader says he is anxious to compete in Merced with his new team. “Any race I go to my goal is to help my team get a result. I train to the best of my abilities no matter what teams will be there

or what riders will be there,” says Loader, who has no doubt his Cash Call team will compete with Bissell. “I am very confident in my team mates and truly believe we will be up for the job regardless of the competition.” Loader reached the Classic Podium twice last year and finished second overall, winning the Hilltop Ranch Road Race and finishing third in the McDonald’s Downtown Grand Prix. Loader is a Monterey native, with family in Fresno who says he has been to Merced so many times it feels like it’s home field advantage. “I have been racing the MERCO Cycling Classic since I was a junior and this is why I have come in the past with such www.thedlm.com

motivation,” says Loader, who fully expects his success at the Classic to continue. “This year I will be coming with a full team and the goal is for either myself or one of my team mates to win GC. We have some really strong riders and they are extremely motivated for MERCO.” Another cyclist likely champing at the bit for a chance for the top spot on the podium is Tom Zirbel, who finished third overall at last year’s Classic. Zirbel, 34, is a cycling veteran who has been riding professionally since 2006. In addition to his success at MERCO last year, he won a stage at the Tour of Elk Grove last year and finished second a the 2011 USPRO Time Trial Championships. “I think MERCO is a safe and well-run race which provides a great opportunity to get some early race fitness,” says Zirbel. “The elite amateurs and pros who live in California are always flying in February and March and that makes for some challenging racing.” Zirbel says you can always count on Bissell presenting a daunting challenge, especially at MERCO. “They are a very strong team to begin with and often they come to MERCO directly from training camp so the riders are fit and hungry for results,” says Zirbel. “They are difficult at any point in the year, but they always seem to bring their ‘A’ game to MERCO.” OTHERS TO WATCH: Team Cal Giant always brings a team eager to

Downtown Grand Prix Schedule The Downtown Grand Prix takes place March 2. See race map for Downtown locations for events below. Community Fair: 10 a.m. to 4p.m. Hospitality Tent: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. serving 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. (invite only) Beer Garden and band: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pee Wee signup: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pee Wee race time: 1 p.m. Tricycle Race: 10:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. EECU Breakaway Zone 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

show the big pro teams what they are made of. A year ago Stephen Leece was a supporting rider to Evan Huffman in what turned out to be Evan’s breakout race in 2012 at Merco. This year Stephen has been given the green light to race for his own overall at Merco. Ben Jacques-Maynes, a former winner at the MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic and a former member of Team Bissell returns with some new digs. Now a member of Jamis-Sutter Home, will be motivated racing against his former team for the first time. Jacques-Maynes spent four years with Bissell, where he was a frequent winner.

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

TEAM CASH CALL

This Southern California based team is a team on the rise. WIth an already stacked team, Cash Call added Mike Olheiser and Logan Loader this year, which many believe will allow them to compete with anybody this season.

TEAM OPTUM HEALTH

Optum Health had two riders who with strong starts at MERCO last year, but only one of them finished. Tom Zirbel finished second overall and teammate Chad Haga was placed high before crashing out. Optum placed six riders in the Top 10 last year.

TEAM GIANT STRAWBERRY

Giant Strawberry is the David to Bissell’s Goliath. They have a dynamic team of young riders that can sneak up and surprise the big guys if they aren’t careful. Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Bringing State of the Art Healthcare to Merced County The new seven-story medical center, with 186 licensed beds, features private rooms and state-of-the-art technology throughout. Next to the medical center is the Mercy Medical Pavilion which features outpatient surgery, lab, imaging and the Dignity Health Medical Group.

www.mercymercedcares.org 209.564.5000

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

www.thedlm.com

Contributed Photo An archive photos from the second or third McLane Pacific Cycling Classic. Scott McKinley (Saturn) leads Trent Klasna (Chevrolet-LA Sheriffs) onto the narrow section of N Street at the Downtown Grand Prix.

STILL A CLASSIC AFTER 20 YEARS

MERCO is easily in the top 3 stage races in California, with the Tour of California and the Redlands Bicycle Classic and is one of the premier early-season races in the country. Fluetsch laughs at the thought of all the mishaps and misfortune they’ve had to overcome to reach this point. They once forgot to put film nobody wanted to even go to “Susie Rossi came up with the idea. She thought it would Mercy Gulch because it was so in their finish line camera, they hot. And for those who did want had an angry farmer dump cow be great to have a bike race to go, the bike race was just an maneuver over the road and at the Mercy Gulch Festival,” says Fluetsch. The Mercy Gulch inconvenience because they had they had a lightning storm that downed trees. to drive around it.” Festival was a yearly event that “I think the growth of Merco Fluetsch thought the race was kicked off the Merced County to what it is today is really a done, but Rossi and the race’s Fair in Downtown Merced. “Sounded like a great idea to me, sponsor McLane Pacific hadn’t testament to the community and the engraved stick to it attitude lost faith. not realizing that it would be in Merced has,” says Fluetsch. They moved the race to the middle of the summer time.” March the next year and added “The first McLane event started When race day came, it was rough, we got bruised, thrown 106 degrees and only 150 riders a second day. on and off, on again and then By the third year they were showed up, most of whom did not even finish the race because on the National Calendar, which elected to stay off the National listed them as one of the top 15 Racing Calendar yet we are still of the conditions. considered one of the best “It was a total disaster,” laughs races in the country. races in the country. I am Now a four-day stage race, Fluetsch.”Nobody came out, proud of that.”

he MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic came from humble beginnings. Doug Fluetsch, the event director, says the first race was a one-day nightmare in the middle of the summer.

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

THE COURS COUR

Snelling

Delhi

Ballico

Hilmar

McConnel S.R.A

Livingston

Atwater

140

Gustine Great Valley Grasslands SP

165

LOS BANOS San Luis Res. St. Rec. Area

Pacheco SP

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

El Nido 152

Dos Palos www.thedlm.com

RSES SES

RACE SPONSORS MERCED IRRIGATION DISTRICT MERCED BOOSTERS MCDONALD’S HILLTOP RANCH

MARIPOSA

MERCED

Planada Le Grand 99

FRESNO

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

THE JERSEYS THE Red Jersey The Susie Rossi Most Passionate Rider “The Power of Local Radio”

Susie Rossi is a pioneer of this cycling event. She was the director of the Merced Downtown Association and was a key element to the beginning of the race. Her job was to promote Downtown Merced and with no knowledge of cycling she embraced an event that she envisioned could become a true community celebration. She worked with the event for the first three or four years, passionate of something she knew nothing about. Sadly Susie passed away in 2003 after a battle with cancer and never really got to see the event become what it is today to the community of Merced.

The YELLOW Jersey OVERALL LEADER ON TIME

scf

The BLUE JERSEY BEST RIDER OVER 45 YEARS OLD

2.27.08

THE PURPLE JERSEY

The GREEN JERSEY

Best young rider under 23 years old

LEader on points

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

www.thedlm.com

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Photo by Wil Mathews Each year hundreds of volunteers and thousands of community members turn out for the MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic.

MERCED’S RACE A race like the MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic doesn’t survive 20 years without the contribution and support of a community.

and businesses. The Rescue Mission helps with race setup, the Police Explorer Scouts man the intersections and volunteers throughout the community serve as coordinators. “It is humbling to see how it’s grown and some of the things we’ve seen happen,” says Mike Malone, CEO of MERCO Credit Union. “As an organization we are only as successful as our community. “A community is more than a place to sleep, eat and work. People need to be engaged in What started as a one-day event quality of life such as the arts and events like this.” 20 years ago has now become a The event gives back to the weeks-worth of entertianment and community in many ways, from excicing cycling. filling out restaurants, hotels and The race operates like shops throughout the four days of clockwork, with assistance the race by drawing thousands of from dozens of organizations

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

“It is humbling to see how it’s grown and some of the things we’ve seen happnen. As an organization we are only as successful as our community” — Mike Malone, CEO of Merco Credit Union out-of-towners or by donating all the proceeds to charity. Last year, more than $5,000 was raised and given back to the community through aid to the organizations volunteering in the event and through United Way. In 18 years Fleutsch estimates more than $150,000 has been raised. Mary Bigelow, Director of Resource Development with United Way, says the race has become their biggest event of the year and is an example

of how community-minded folks can make a tremendous difference. “Merced is such a giving community” says Bigelow, who credits Merced for its selflessness. ” I see it every day through the way people volunteer their time or invest financially back to this county.” “This event is a reflection of the hundreds of people, businesses, & organizations committed to the success of

this race and the betterment of our community.” “It is has been a wonderful event to be a part of and watch grow these last 5 years.” More than more than 500 people volunteer each year for the race, which has grown from two to four days and demands more than 10 hours of work each day of the race. According to Bigelow one volunteer hour equates to $21.

Shaﬀer Building Photo Courtesy Merced County Historical Society

In 1912, the Shaﬀer family founded our family-owned insurance agency, had a bridge built over the Merced River and constructed their namesake building on what is now M and Main Streets. All three still stand. Our 100th year in business is a humbling milestone only achieved with many thanks to our customers and community. We look forward to serving you in the Century ahead.

725 W. 18 Street, Merced Ca 95340 (209) 722-1541 • fandb1912.com Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

100 years of thanks to you.

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Contributed Photo USA Cycling legend Davis Phinney will speak at the MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic’s Champions Dinner on Feb. 28 at the Merced County Fairgrounds Pavillion.

Legend Phinney to speak at dinner

Words by Tom Price tom@thedlm.com

avis Phinney was at the tip of the spear of USA Cycling’s incredible growth spurt in the ’80s and ’90s. The Colorado native medaled in the 1984 Olympics and he won two stages at the Tour de France helping put a niche sport on the national stage. Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

But his greatest accomplishments might have come long after he retired from the sport and was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinsons in 2000. It was then, that this cyclist known for his sprinting ability, began the uphill battle against this devastating disease. Phinney, founder of the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s will be a guest speaker at the MERCO Credit Union Cycling Classic’s Champoin’s Dinner at 6 p.m. on Feb. 28 at the Merced County Fairgrounds Pavillion. “In 2000, I was covering a race in Australia for a TV network, and I was having trouble holding the microphone. I could not will my hand to stop shaking,” says Phinney, who enjoyed a career as a broadcaster after retiring in 1993. “That was the aha moment. It was 90 degrees outside but I couldn’t get my hand to stop tremoring.” www.thedlm.com

Phinney would return to his hometown of Boulder, Colorado, and spend months visiting different doctors and neurologists all of whom were baffled by his symptoms. Phinney would find the answer himself one night while searching the internet. “I had done some searching and found something on early on-set Parkinson’s and it had a checklist of symptoms. I checked 8 out of 10,” says Phinney. “I just had a feeling that was it.” A neurologist in Denver would confirm his diagnosis. “It was a sobering moment for both my wife and I,” says Phinney. “I was not familiar with Parkinson’s at all. “ Phinney’s busy post-cycling career came to a halt. At the time of his diagnosis he was working with a local clothing company, he was the VP of a sports marketing firm and he was a partner in a local bike shop all while doing TV work for ESPN and Outdoor Life Network. “This is the kind of disease that the more stress you put on yourself the more your symptoms wreak havoc on you,” says Phinney, who says he essentially checked out of his previous life. “I basically stopped everything.” He says the months following the diagnosis

were especially difficult. He felt like everybody was watching him and the burden grew too strong. “We ended up deciding to move to Italy and check out of life as I knew it,” says Phinney. “I wanted to get out from under the microscope of my friends in Boulder.” His wife and two kids would spend three years in Italy before making the decision to return to the states. Phinney, who had been doing some work for the LiveStrong Foundation, realized he could direct his energy toward helping people with Parkinson’s. “I saw that my voice could be used for greater good than hiding away in Italy,” says Phinney. The Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s is committed to providing inspiration and education for the Parkinson’s community with ideas, tactics and strategies on how to live better with the disease. Phinney also wrote a book about his life with the disease, titled “The Happiness of Pursuit,” which is available online through Amazon.com. Tickets for the Champions Dinner are $25 each and are available by contacting Ellen Riggs at (209) 777-2765 or email at meriggs@sbcglobal. net. Space is limited.

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

www.thedlm.com

Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Last Word David Doll

How cyclists reach speeds exceeding 40 mph

Words by David Doll

ny guess on how fast the Men’s Pro Field cyclist will be moving around the downtown MERCO/McDonald’s Downtown Grand Prix? Faster than cars, cyclist move through the Downtown course at an average speed more than 30 MPH. These high speeds are maintained for the race duration, 90 minutes. To top it off, the final sprint will reach speeds in excess of 40 MPH. How are cyclists able to reach and maintain these speeds? Drafting. Pedaling a bike at 30 MPH takes a lot of energy. Most of this energy is used to overcome air resistance from the increasing speed. By drafting, or following the cyclist in front of you closely, it takes 30 percent less energy to maintain the same speed as the lead cyclist. This savings allows the second (and third, fourth, etc.) person in line to work less, save energy, and in turn, rotate to the front and take a strong “pull.” As long as the chain remains unbroken, the effect of the drafting is strong for all riders in the field — even if the field is “strung out” over three blocks. If something happens, a crash or a weaker rider failing to maintain the draft position, the riders immediately behind must work really hard to reconnect the line. If not, a separation in the field will occur, preventing some riders from finishing with the front group. Drafting also plays into race strategy. “Sprinters,” or cyclists within a team whose Downtown Life Magazine February 2013

Faster than cars, cyclists move through the Downtown course at an average speed of more than 30 miles per hour. These high speeds are maintained for the

race duration, 90 minutes.

primary function is to out-sprint the opponents during the final 100 meters, will tend to stay protected within the pack to conserve energy for the final push. Teammates will often work hard to surround their sprinter to reduce their work load. Some riders may move to the front and ride at a hard pace in order to “split the field,” weaker riders who cannot maintain the increased pace fall out of the draft line and thus out of contention. Finally, other riders may drop off the back of the pack to bring a rider back into the pack. When watching the Downtown race this year, keep an eye on the cyclists and how they move through the field. These movements will help identify the team’s race strategy. For most riders, however, a ride in the men’s Pro field at MERCO will be all about hanging on and finishing with the field as the quality of competition, duration, and speed of the race is quite intense! www.thedlm.com

Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/thedlm

Downtown Life Magazine February 2013