209 Magazine Issue 33

JUNE/JULY 2019 - ISSUE 33 - $4.95

SECRET

Swimming Holes

MY KETO

Journey

KEEP CALM

$4.95US

Cover-84P.indd 1

and drink TEQUILA 5/20/2019 8:49:28 AM

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Wines of Distinctive Character

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CARMENET® (pronounced “Car-men-ay”) is a collection of California sparkling and still wines that embodies the art of blending and its ability to achieve top-quality results. Offering distinctive mouth-filling flavors that wine enthusiasts seek out again and again.

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Happy cows.

Fun Flavors.

Stanislaus County’s freshest bottle of milk.

At Nutcher Milk Taste matters. We feed our cows a balance daily ration, that our nutritionist puts together. We pick ingredients that don’t change the flavor of the cow’s milk.

When we milk our cows, their milk comes out about 98 degrees and we chill it to 38 degrees within 5 minutes of leaving the cow, saving flavor and preventing bacteria growth. This is above and beyond the Grade A standard.

We pump the milk to the processing plant 20 feet away during milking. We then do antibiotic testing to ensure antibiotic free milk. We then pasteurize and homogenize, making it ready to go to the bottle.

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From cow to bottle in just a few hours and it is only milk from our cows.

We offer Whole milk, 2%, Half and Half and Lactose free whole milk.

Fun flavors for young and old. Chocolate, Strawberry, Cotton Candy, Root beer, Orange cream, Mocha, Cold brew Coffee, Eggnog, Pumpkin spice, and always trying new ones.

We deliver directly to stores near you.

Truly Farm to Fridge for you.

Why glass bottle?

Our cows make great tasting milk, so we wanted a package that didn’t change the flavor.

Glass bottles keep the milk colder, there is no taste changing residue from glass.

We reuse the bottles over and over so no milk containers in the landfill.

A $2.00 deposit exchange for every bottle.

RETURN CLEAN BOTTLES TO ANY STORE THAT SELLS NUTCHER MILK FOR YOUR DEPOSIT BACK!!!!

nutchermilk.com

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FEATURES George Lucas’ classic film “American Graffiti” cemented Modesto’s place in the collective nostalgia of sock hops, cruising and classic cars. Every June people come together to celebrate the bygone days and car culture.

38 42 44

Modesto Graffiti Walk

Modesto Area Street Rod Association

Graffiti Summer 2019 Events

JUNE/JULY 2019 - ISSUE 33 - $4.95

SECRET

Swimming Holes

MY KETO

Journey

KEEP CALM

$4.95US

and drink TEQUILA

Cover photo by Nielsen Photographic Services scottnielsenphoto.com Cover-84P.indd 1

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JUNE/JULY 2019 – ISSUE 33

DEPARTMENTS IN THE KNOW 14 16 20 24

Scene in the 209 Calendar of events Secret Swimming Holes of the 209 Gala in Graceada

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25

20

ARTS&CULTURE Mistlin Cabaret Series Sierra Rep visits Oz

NAVIGATOR 30

Exploring Istanbul

FLAVORS 48 52 54

Hey Bartender Jamestown Hotel and Restaurant Watermelon Bloody Mary

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS 56 60 64

Sierra Splendor Hook, Line & Sinker Sierra Summits” Book Review

FULL OF LIFE 66 70 72

Fitness and Beyond Get Fit Studios My Keto Journey

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A PLACE CALLED HOME 76 78

Garden Tour Dream Home

MARKETPLACE 80

New Vision for Downtown Los Banos

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Vol. 4 No. 33 ■ June/July 2019 ■ $4.95 PUBLISHER Hank Vander Veen

GENERAL MANAGER Drew Savage

EDITOR Kristina Hacker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAHERS Jarod Ballardo Dave Bunnell Kelsey Cetin Teresa Hammond Matt Johanson Bob Leung Angelina Martin Sabra Stafford Virginia Still Frankie Tovar Mark Verschelden

ART DIRECTOR Harold L. George

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Sharon Hoffman Jaime Ramirez

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Chuck Higgs

SALES & MARKETING Chris Castro Beth Flanagan Dawn Hamilton Rich Matheson Corey Rogers Melody Wann Charles Webber Jennifer Webber

SPECIAL CONSULTANT

Despite a wet and snowy end to spring, summer has finally arrived and with it the sunshine. Locals can finally get out and enjoy all the natural wonders the 209 has to offer, including a number of secret swimming holes which we feature in this issue.

It’s also a good time to visit one of the area’s lakes and try out a tip from 209 Magazine fishing expert Jarod Ballardo or check out new guidebook “Sierra Summits” and have a peak experience in “California’s Range of Light.”

Car enthusiasts are very excited about the return of summer because it signals the start of the annual pilgrimage to Modesto and its Graffiti Summer festivities. The month of June is dedicated to remembering George Lucas’ classic film “American Graffiti” and the car culture it created. This issue lists every chrome-fender fueled event and features local car club, Modesto Area Street Rod Association.

However you decide to spend your summer, we at 209 Magazine appreciate your time in reading this issue. We welcome your comments, calendar events and stories. We hope you will support the businesses and charities that have chosen to partner with us.

We appreciate them and look forward to being the most relevant magazine in your home, a place called 209.

Larry Dovichi

HE

Hank Vander Veen Publisher hvanderveen@209magazine.com

Noth and Visit

To advertise in 209 Magazine, call Manteca • 209.249.3500 • Oakdale • 209.847.3021 Turlock • 209.634.9141 209 Magazine is published 6 times a year 138 S. Center St. • Turlock, CA 95380 Comments: khacker@209magazine.com www.209magazine.com ©Copyright 2018. 209 Magazine All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher of 209 Magazine is strictly prohibited. The opinions expressed in 209 Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of 209 Magazine management or owner. 209 Magazine assumes no responsibility and makes no recommendation for claims made by advertisers and shall not be liable for any damages incurred.

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HEALTHY WITH A SIDE OF HAPPY. Nothing should come between you and a long, healthy life. So we’ve removed the barrier between health care and coverage, giving you the care you need and the coverage you deserve. It’s simply health care made simple.

Visit kp.org today because together we thrive.

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Notes

with FRANKIE TOVAR

#216 Central Valley Strongest Man and Woman Competition Who’s the strongest in the 209? We decided to find out so we sent Frankie to the firstever Central Valley Strongest Man and Woman Competition.

Watch these hulking athletes complete five trials of strength in a parking lot in Modesto!

“Last time I competed I did a 500lb bench press drug free and then I pulled a 780-something for my deadlift.” Devon Woodall

STUDIO209 is a weekly magazine-style video series filmed in the heart of the Central Valley. Join us every Thursday and enjoy a wide range of coverage from community events to personal profiles and more. ftovar@morrismultimedia.com

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WE’VE GOT THE 209 COVERED

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#213

San Joaquin Valley Portuguese Festival The Central Valley is home to the largest Portuguese population in the Nation, so you know we couldn’t miss this inaugural festival! Watch Angelina enjoy a fun-filled day of Portuguese culture with traditional dance, delicious food and a special appearance by The Portuguese Kids!

The Oatfield MX Park

What was once an oat field in Snelling is now a full-blown motocross park thanks to former pro rider Corky Azavedo. Who else would we send to cover this extreme sport other than Loud Eddie himself?

“When you’re out there flying through the air, ripping up dirt, it feels awesome. It’s like you’re weightless in the air jumping 100ft jumps.” Brian DeRuyter

Ten Pin Fun Center Exclusive Tour After more than two decades, bowling is back in Turlock with the opening of the Ten Pin Fun Center. Studio209 was invited to be the first to tour the 62,000 square foot entertainment facility and boy did we have fun! Watch Angelina hit the arcade, test the food and bowl a few frames before you visit Ten Pin for yourself.

OTHER EPISODES TO WATCH

212: Shakespeare In Yosemite: UC Merced and Sonnet Man 214: Community Mother: JoLynn DiGrazia 215: 10 Years of Dust Bowl Brewing 217: Outlaw Drift 218: National Doughnut Day

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Everyone could use a little moxie* *Skill; know-how.

Auto Loans • Personal Loans • Home Equity Loans From time to time, we all could use a little “moxie.”

Planning a vacation? A wedding? New car? Home improvement?

Checking off a bucket list dream? Talk to your friends at Mocse.

We’re sure to have a loan option that will fit you to a “T.” Get the credit you deserve, with a little moxie on the side. Call or stop by today to find out more.

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Modesto: 3600 Coffee Road | 1400 J Street • Turlock: 1401 Geer Road • 800-44-Mocse

YOUR DESTINATION FOR INSPIRATION

Have a vision for your home or garden?

It is our goal to help you bring that vision into reality.

(209) 599-4543

www.silveradobldg.com 460 South Stockton Avenue | Ripon, CA

Come in and see what we have to beautify your yard this spring!

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Your community’s nonprofit hospice, providing compassionate and quality care, education and support to patients and their families, regardless of ability to pay since 1979.

Hospice Palliative Care Pediatric Care Alexander Cohen Hospice House Camp Erin® of the Central Valley Grief Support

See Us Today Vintage Faire Mall, Modesto Sherwood Mall, Stockton

Crisis Response Admissions 7 Days a Week Educational Support Resources Hope Chest Thrift Stores

(Formerly known as Caregiver College)

PEDIATRIC OFFICE

ANURADHA DUBEY, MD

Attend a free seminar to gain practical information and resources. To register, visit hospiceheart.org or call 209.578.6300.

With over a decade of experience in the Valley, Dr. Dubey has a friendly pediatric practice in Modesto.

Self Defense 101

BOARD CERTIFIED PEDIATRICIAN

Visit our patient portal to easily access lab results, request appointments, communicate with the office, see statements, pay bills and much more. Ask our staff today to activate your account!!

Once activated, portal website https://www.yourhealthfile.com

We accept all major insurances

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS HABLAMOS ESPAÑOL

Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 8am - 5pm, Fri. 8am - 3:30pm Lunch from 12 - 12:45

Available 24/7 On Call 209-497-6767

allforkidsmodesto.com /allforkidsmodesto

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COMMUNITY HOSPICE 4368 Spyres Way, Modesto, 95356

June 13

ARNOLD RUE COMMUNITY CENTER 5758 Lorraine Avenue, Stockton, 95210

July 10

TRACY PUBLIC LIBRARY 20 E. Eaton Avenue, Tracy, 95376

July 11

TURLOCK PUBLIC LIBRARY 550 Minaret Avenue, Turlock, 95380

12:00-1:00 p.m. • Free lunch is provided

4312 Spyres Way, Modesto, CA 95356

209MAGAZINE.COM

June 12

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4368 Spyres Way Modesto, CA 95356 209.578.6300

2431 W. March Lane, Suite 100 Stockton, CA 95207 209.477.6300

hospiceheart.org

CommunityHospiceCV

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intheknow

Scene

in the

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rom food festivals to fundraisers to the Celtic Faire, the 209 Magazine team was out and about capturing all the fun happening in the region.

Want to have your organization’s event featured in 209 Magazine? Email sstafford@209magazine.com.

GALA IN GRACEADA The first ever Gala in Graceada was a sold-out event with hundreds coming out in their finest attire to support the revitalization efforts at Graceada Park in Modesto.

Chris and Becky Murphy came out to support the cause.

Kris and Jennifer Helton were joined by Jill and Zach Riley at Gala in Graceada.

The Angels Camp Business Association brought out some of the best wineries and restaurants for the annual TASTE OF CALAVERAS event at Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys in April. The event is a celebration of the wines, foods, arts, and products made in Calaveras County.

Brian Gibb, Andrea Gibb, Mike Hewitt, Lorraine Hewitt, and Ottvar Lyssand took in the many flavors and the art on display at the annual showcase event.

The bounty of options was enjoyed by Diana Lopez and her bridal shower party. Pictured left to right: Alexa Booth, Vanessa Lopez, Megan McKenzie, Diana Lopez, Gloria Quintero, Shelby Sibert, Margarita Navarro, and Heather Thomas.

Sherri Giannini and Matt Lindorth enjoy some of the samplings at Taste of Calaveras.

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LIVINGSTON KITE FESTIVAL Some good winds helped lift more than spirits at the annual Livingston Kite Festival, which saw kids, adults and families launch their kites high into the sky.

KNIGHTS FERRY PEDDLERS’ FAIRE Vendors and artisans alike lined up in Knights Ferry for the annual Peddlers’ Faire, which brought out a large crowd eager to inspect the wares.

COWGIRL LUNCHEON The annual Cowgirl Luncheon hosted April 10 as part of Rodeo Week festivities in Oakdale featured the traditional packed house at the Gene Bianchi Community Center. Cowboy servers were on hand to provide the plates of food, keep the libations flowing and chat it up with the diners.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY PORTUGUESE FESTIVAL All things Portuguese were on display and celebrated at the San Joaquin Valley Portuguese Festival in Turlock. Presented by the Portuguese Fraternal Society of America, the festival featured a parade, dances, music and lots of food. The event was done with the Carlos Vierra Foundation in honor of Autism Awareness month.

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COMMUNITY EVENTS

JUNE

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GOURMET BURGER BAR

Celebrate the start of summer with an outdoor Gourmet Burger Bar fundraiser at Sutter Creek’s historic Knight Foundry on June 8.

Enjoy gourmet burgers, salads, and all the fixings, plus beer, wine, a silent auction, and more.

The burger bar will be open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Knight Foundry Alliance member tickets are $30 each; public tickets are $35. Space is limited. Tickets available online: brownpapertickets.com/event/4227098.

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DRINK PINK

The Amador Winegrowers Association and the Amador Vintners Association is hosting two rosé wine tasting events at Amador’s Drink Pink! Rosé All Night on June 14 and 15. The first part of the event will take place at Plymouth City Park on Main Street. Come enjoy the versatility and elegance of the 15 different Amador wineries’ rosés. The second part of the Drink Pink event will be held at each of the 15 participating wineries the next day, with food wine pairings and fun all day. The night event is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and the day event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $25 and include the evening wine tasting, an ecofriendly wine glass and special wine events.

Tickets are available at amadorwine.com/events.

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FESTA ITALIANA

Celebrate the spirit of Italy at the Festa Italiana in Lodi on June 9.

Festa Italiana offers delicious Italian food from a dozen Italian chefs, a mercato marketplace, cooking demonstrations, Italian art and history display, bocce ball, salami toss, the automobili show, wine tasting, olive oil and local product tastings.

Italian tenor Pasquale Esposito will be the headliner. Nino d’Italiano, the Steve Trucco Band and Folk Dancers complete the line-up. Local entertainment, clowns, marionettes and Italian dance lessons also will be available.

Festa Italiana will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lodi Grape Festival grounds at 413 E. Lockeford Street in Lodi.

Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door and children 12 and under are free.

For tickets or more information visit festa-italiana.com.

PATIOFEST

PatioFest returns to downtown Modesto on June 15 for a night of free music.

PatioFest will feature 18 performers at 18 different venues around downtown Modesto. PatioFest is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and there is no admission cost to hear the music.

The venues are: Fuzio Universal Bistro, Ralston’s Goat, Tresetti’s World Caffe, Barkin’ Dog Grill, The Bayou Bar & Grill, Chef’s of New York Downtown – Music by David, Stanislaus Brewing Co., Commonwealth, Churchkey, Deva Café, The Fox Pub, Papachino’s, Skewers Kabob House, The Burnt End, Graffiti Dogs, Galletto’s Ristorante, Urbano, and Taqueria Cardenas. The venues will have specials on food and drinks for the night.

For more information visit https://www.facebook. com/ModestoPatioFest/ 16

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VIETNAM MOVING WALL

The traveling half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is coming to downtown Stockton starting on June 20 at the Weber Points Event Center.

The Moving Wall will be open to the public 24 hours a day staffed

by Veterans and civilian volunteers, who will assist in locating names, accompanying individuals or families to the Wall, helping with taking a “rubbing” of a name or just being available as a “silent partner” at the Wall. During the hours of darkness, it will be bathed in a sheen of golden light. The Wall will be open to visit from 3 p.m. June 20 to 2 p.m. June 24. There will be a tribute ceremony at 10 a.m. June 22.

Admission is free for the entire stay of the Wall.

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SUMMER SOLSTICE YOGA

Summer Solstice Awakening is a four-day yoga and backpacking retreat in Yosemite from June 20 to 24.

Celebrate the longest days of the year through backcountry yoga practice, outdoor adventure and deep relaxation.

The four-day journey will travel through Yosemite National Park and will incorporate body, mind, and spirit components.

For information on cost and the full schedule call Balanced Rock Foundation at (209) 379-9453 or visit balancedrock.org.

TUOLUMNE LUMBER JUBILEE

The 70th annual Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee is set for June 20 to 23 at the Tuolumne Memorial Park in Tuolumne. The four-day festival celebrates the history of the role of lumber in the community with a bevy of activities, games and a parade. There will also be a carnival each day and a tug-ofwar game on Sunday. The logging events include crosscut sawing, hot power saw and an axe throwing competition. For times and the schedule of events visit www. tuolumnerecreation.com.

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FIDDLETOWN FLEA MARKET

The Fiddletown Community Center’s Annual Fiddletown Flea Market from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 22.

This is a giant community yard sale held in the park on the main street in Fiddletown and, many private residences in the surrounding area. Maps will be available to guide attendees to the multiple venues. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Vendors welcome. For directions or any other questions, call (209)296-0918.

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JULY

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ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL The 47th annual Sierra Nevada Arts and Crafts Festival in Arnold is set for July 6 and 7. Starting with a classic, small-town parade at 10 a.m. at the east end of town on Highway 4 and ending at Cedar Center. The festivities continue in the grounds at Bristol’s Ranch House Café at 961 Highway 4, Arnold with fine crafts, fine art, gourmet foods, and live entertainment.

The festival features over 50 booths of original arts and crafts.

The Arnold Lion’s Club serves an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. both days for $8. During the festival, the Ebbetts Pass Volunteer Fire Department serves local Calaveras County beers, and a variety of home-made food booths. After the festival, they hold their annual BBQ with live music on Saturday evening. Admission is free.

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BIG BAND STREET DANCE

Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy the music at the Big Band Street Dance in Columbia on July 20. Come in everyday wear or get in the mood and dress in 1940s clothing. Prizes are awarded for best 1940s outfits, best dancing couples, and much more. The street dance is from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Columbia State Historic Park. Admission is free. For more information visit www. friendsofcolumbiashp.org.

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BEAR VALLEY MUSIC FESTIVAL

The 50th annual Bear Valley Music Festival will kick off a series of shows on July 19.

A yearly summer event in Bear Valley begins on the second-to-last Friday in July and ends three Sundays later, on August 4. Under the direction Michael Morgan, the festival appeals to a wide audience by presenting a variety of artists and styles of music including classical, rock, country and jazz. The concerts are held in a tent, equipped with a stage large enough to hold a symphony orchestra. For tickets and a schedule of performances visit www. bearvalleymusicfestival.org.

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THE CHILL LIST

The creators of The Ill List, are bringing a new spoken word competition to Modesto on July 20.

The Chill List will feature four of the best poetry slam “teams” in the country competing for a $2,000 prize. As a team, poets choose to compete in pairs or as a full ensemble through four rounds of performance poetry. Randomly selected judges from the audience will award points to teams based on the strength of their poems and the quality of their performance. Audience participation remains essential. The competition will be at the State Theatre in Modesto.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 and are available at www.thestate.org.

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Voted 2018 Readers Choice Winner for “Best BBQ”

Thank You for Your Vote!

“Made fresh daily & inspired by local products!”

-Takeout-Online Ordering-events(209) 634-8849 - www.tritipery.com 11359 Newport Rd, Ballico, CA 95303 -catering209 Magazine 33-June-July 2019.indd 19

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intheknow

Secret swimming holes in the 209

By ANGELINA MARTIN

W

ith the heat of summer upon us, it can be hard to keep cool if you don’t have a swimming pool.

Luckily, there are plenty of swimming spots throughout the 209 that help keep the warmer weather in check. While they may be located just a bit off the beaten path, these secret pools give visitors the chance to get their toes wet — or dive on in — surrounded by the beauty and splendor that only our area code can offer. ■

Arnold Rim Trail With over 17 miles of trail, hikers can encounter numerous swimming holes on this path. Originally designed for hikers, bikers and equestrians, those in search of a safe spot to swim also frequent the trail, which loops around the San Antonio Creek. Thanks to this, it’s easy to take a break and go for a dip in one of the creek’s many pools. The Arnold Rim Trail connects the many wonders of public lands along the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway stretch of Hwy 4 to its communities, creating a high level of access for its residents and visitors. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but be wary of black bear sightings.

PHOTO BY HALEY PHELPS/Unsplash

TO GET THERE The Arnold Rim Trail begins at the Sierra Nevada Logging Museum in the community of White Pines. From eastbound Highway 4 in Arnold, veer left onto Blagen Road just past the Chevron gas station. Follow Blagen Road for approximately one mile through the community of White Pines. Turn left on Dunbar Road, following signs for Hazel Fisher School and Logging Museum. Just past White Pines Lake, turn right at the giant pencil that marks the Logging Museum entrance. Please respect the signs demarcating parking spaces reserved for the Museum.

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Rainbow Pools Many are familiar with the magnificence of Yosemite National Park, but few are aware that while driving on Highway 120 on their way to the Valley, they can stop at one of the best swimming holes in the state.

Rainbow Pools are natural swimming holes along the south fork of the Tuolumne River, where timid visitors can dip their feet into the water, experienced swimmers can take a dive and thrill seekers can plunge from the rock-lined edges. Originally a toll stop on the Big Oak Flat Road to Yosemite, and then later a resort development, the area is now a picnic, swimming, hiking and fishing spot.

TO GET THERE Rainbow Pools is located 15 miles East of Groveland off of Highway 120. Just after you pass the View Point parking area called Rim of the World, which looks down onto the Tuolumne River canyon, watch for a turn on the right just before the big bridge. If you miss the right, just after the bridge is the turnoff to Cherry Lake and you can turn around there.

God’s Bath

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TO GET THERE Head out of Groveland east on Highway 120 and turn left onto Cherry Lake Road about 15 miles outside of town. Continue on Cherry Lake Road until you reach Cherry Lake, then continue onto Cottonwood Road. After another 15 miles, you will reach the Cottonwood Bridge – park here in one of the pull outs.

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PHOTOS BY DAVE BUNNELL/Under Earth Images

The 209’s foothills hide a plethora of secret swimming spots, but none as marvelous as God’s Bath. Located in the Clavey River Canyon, this assortment of deep, crystal clear pools and breathtaking waterfalls is just a short hike away. Surrounded by granite formations, there are plenty of pools to explore — including an underwater pathway that adventurous swimmers can follow and pop up on the other side.

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Natural Bridges Swimming in the pools located on the Natural Bridges trail may make you feel like you’re in a scene from a movie. This beautiful, two-mile round-trip hike will lead you to spectacular limestone caverns, carved out over hundreds of years by Coyote Creek. Maintained by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, this natural feature is one of their recommended trails when visiting New Melones Lake. The water may be cold, but it’s perfect for a summer cooldown via a swim, wade or raft through the formation. This area is a fragile ecosystem, so dogs and bikes aren’t allowed.

During the summer, mid-week visits are best as this secluded spot is a popular destination.

TO GET THERE From Highway 4, turn onto Parrots Ferry Road. Go about 4 miles and park at the marked trail head on the right, keeping an eye out for the brown “Natural Bridges Day Use Area” sign on the side of the road.

Cleo’s Bath Pinecrest Lake is a popular destination for swimmers, but buried back in the lake’s mountains is another hidden gem where hikers can cool off. The picturesque swimming hole known as Cleo’s Bath lies about 1.25 miles as the crow flies from the east end of Pinecrest along the South Fork of the Stanislaus River. The hike there, however, is about four miles long and requires some scrambling over boulders and an uphill climb, but the pool is well worth the effort. Cleo’s Bath consists of two main areas: the main swimming hole, which is a natural pool about 60 feet across and six feet deep, and a smaller swimming hole located directly beneath a waterfall where courageous swimmers can take a leap of faith into the depths.

PHOTOS BY DAVE BUNNELL/Under Earth Images

TO GET THERE

According to the U.S. National Park Service, there are a few things you can do to ensure safe swimming in the 209’s natural pools this summer. ● Always supervise children

To reach Cleo’s Bath park at Pinecrest Lake and hike the Pinecrest Lake Loop Trail counterclockwise to the east end. When you reach a small meadow just as the trail begins to climb you will see a sign pointing the way to Cleo’s Bath. Continue on this trail east for another 1.5 miles till you reach the swimming hole.

Swim Safely

closely, and utilize life jackets when near water. ● Swim only during low water conditions; in summer, rivers and creeks swollen by runoff from snowmelt are dangerous.

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Stay clear of powerful currents, icy water and river obstructions. ● Make sure any pool you’re jumping into is clear of hidden obstructions before you dive by extensively scouting the area.

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Paint, Drink & Have Fun! Paint Events June 29, 2019 and June 30, 2019 Extraterrestrial Les Lavendes

Contact us to reserve your seat!

3440 McHenry Ave SE6 Modesto Ca

(209) 408-8186

www.pinotspalettemodesto.com com om

See the railroad’s golden past come to life every day at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Park open daily.

EVENTS June-July: Excursion Trains run every Sat. & Sun. • Trains depart at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

• Adults: $15, Youth (ages 6-17): $10, Children (5 and under): Free.

• Members ride free, all prices include park admission.

Wednesdays, June 12-July 31: Wednesday Trains, Story Time, & Junior Rangers • Trains depart at 10:30 a.m. and noon.

• Storytime and Junior Rangers begin at 11 a.m.

June 16: Father’s Day Steam Train Rides.

• Trains depart at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.

10501 Reservoir Road Jamestown, CA 95327 Railtown1897.org 209-984-3953 Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is operated by California State Parks with financial assistance from the nonprofit California State Railroad Museum Foundation.

All schedules, offerings and prices are subject to change without notice.

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intheknow

A

By SABRA STAFFORD

t the first ever Gala in Graceada event the wellheeled guests came in black tie and ball gowns, summer suits and slinky dresses. But no matter the finery they chose, they all shared a common mission — to support the efforts to improve Graceada Park in Modesto.

Gala in Graceada was the brainchild of a group of dedicated residents and hosted by the College Area Neighborhood Alliance, which is a part of Modesto Neighborhoods, Inc., a non-profit organization.

Some of the funds raised during the Gala in Graceada will be used to launch Sundays in Graceada, a free park program of activities for families and individuals. Sundays in Graceada started on Memorial Day and will run through Labor Day. The City of Modesto is opening the pool, Studio V and Core Fitness is providing complimentary Pilates and fitness classes, and the Boys and Girls Club of Stanislaus County is hosting several weekend events. The Barber family will be hosting a pool party later in the season and the organizers are taking signups from those interested in hosting activities.

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The fundraising efforts from Gala in Graceada will also be going towards a revamp of the Boy Scout Clubhouse in Enslen Park. The Clubhouse is used for Boy Scout meetings and other community functions and large parties. The group would like install a pavilion and modernize the interior space.

The organization has been inspired by the past work done at the park, including the City of Modesto’s master plan update for Graceada and Enslen parks presented in 2017. Other groups and individuals have done their share as well, like the Barber family, who restored the pool and splash pad in 2018; the Leadership Modesto Class of 2018 for replacing the tot lot playground equipment; and the musical flowers flanking Graceada Park, donated by the Modesto Sunrise Rotary.

The Gala in Graceada will return in 2020, with the group going all out to celebrate Modesto’s 150th year.

Next year’s project will be focused on restoring and improving Graceada Park’s iconic Mancini Bowl. ■ For more information and to see a list of upcoming events, visit galaingraceada.com.

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arts&culture

By SABRA STAFFORD

T

he Central California Art Association along with the Mistlin Gallery in Modesto are hosting the second in their cabaret series dedicated to the late art patron Grace Lieberman.

The second show in the cabaret series is set for 7 p.m.

June 8 featuring Christine Capsuto-Shulman in “A Prelude to Summer!”

Capsuto-Shulman will perform popular works from Broadway and opera, accompanied by Elizabeth Neff. She is a multi-faceted artist in the world of opera, musical theater, dance and acting.

“Christine’s the ‘the ultimate package’ as defined through her commanding stage presence, effortless vocal prowess, impressive musicianship skills, quirky humor and graceful poise, creating a deep and mov-

ing theatrical experience,” said David Schroeder.

Shulman is a strong advocate for the arts in education, and teaches voice lessons at her San José studio. Recently, she founded her own princess party company, Princess Party Fantasies, that educates young children about being outstanding individuals, expressing themselves through art, and

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contributing to their community.

The series will continue on Aug. 31 with “The Rat Pack in Review” featuring dancers from Central West Ballet, choreographed by Rene Daveluy.

On Nov. 23 the fourth in the series will be “The Passion of Flamenco” featuring David Chapman on Spanish guitar.

The proceeds from these events are being used to fund CCAA’s cooperative community endeavors with other arts groups, art education, and for the development of a Grace Lieberman Young Artist scholarship fund.

Tickets are available at Mistlin Gallery or online at http:// mistlingallery.eventbrite.com for $50 VIP seating, $30 general seating and $20 for students.

Ticket price includes beverages and delicious desserts. ■

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arts&culture

T

he story of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” has gone through many incarnations over the years: An American fairytale, a Broadway extravaganza, one of the first technicolor MGM movie musicals, and the 1989 West End holiday musical. Now, complete with dancing Munchkins and flying monkeys, Sierra Rep is delighted to present “The Wizard of Oz” this summer at the Historic Fallon House Theatre in Columbia State Park.

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The book is by John Kane, music by Harold Arlen and lyrics by E.Y. Harburg. It has additional background music by Herbert Stothart. It is based on the novel “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by L. Frank Baum and the 1939 film version written by Noel Langley, Florence Ryerson and Edgar Allan Woolf.

This production will be co-directed by Scott Viets and Jerry Lee, who previously teamed up for “Holiday Jukebox” and “The Robber Bridegroom.” The production 26

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sponsor is DSN Outdoor.

A young orphan girl named Dorothy Gale lives on the great Kansas prairie with her Aunt Em, Uncle Henry, and dog, Toto. When the town spinster, Miss Almira Gulch, threatens to have Toto destroyed, Dorothy has no choice but to run away with Toto from the only home she knows. But when a cyclone hits, Dorothy and Toto are transported to the magical land of Oz where she befriends Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion.

“The Wizard of Oz” will be at the Fallon House Theatre through July 21.

The film version introduced some of the world’s best known music like “Ding Dong the Witch is Dead,” “We’re Off to See the Wizard,” and “Over the Rainbow.”

“There are so many expectations with shows like Oz,” says Viets.

“It’s a delicate balance in deciding what we want to pay homage to and what we want to re-imagine for ourselves. We don’t want to re-create the movie onstage because what would be the point of that? What we can do is find clever ways to make visual references to the iconic movie and explore the play honestly and sincerely so we don’t lose any of what makes Dorothy’s story so powerful.”

“It’s a story that is always important to tell,” says Lee. “It’s about a disadvantaged little girl who is put into a position of power and leads with kindness, good will and faith in her friends. It’s a story that’s good for children to experi-

ence and it’s a good reminder for adults.”

Sierra Rep welcomes back Jan Leigh Herndon as Almira Gulch/ The Wicked Witch, Emily Gatesman as Aunt Em/Glinda, Daniel J. Hines as Zeke/Cowardly Lion, Greg Parker as Uncle Henry/Emerald City Guard, Pat Pinney as Professor Marvel/Wizard and Matt Alpert, Henry J. Flores and Kyle Moses who will play a multitude of roles from Munchkins to singing Crows.

Making their Sierra Rep debuts will be Lauren Metzinger as Dorothy, Cameron Chang as Hunk/Scarecrow, Sam Bravo as Hickory/ Tin Man, with Yuliya Eydelnant, Mor-

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gan Madrid, Jackie Thompson and Nicole Stouffer in the ensemble.

The production will also include students from SRT’s youth training program as Munchkins, Poppies and Flying Monkeys. The youth ensemble includes Ruby James, Alice James, Avé Carrillo, Alycia Bunow, Ryan Seago, Juliette Diamond, Austin Paris, Benjamin Diamond, Noah Diamond and Nathan Mabilog.

Choreography is by Maggie Sniffen and music direction by Chris Wade. The creative team includes Sean Fanning (scenic and projection design), Nate Parde (lighting design), Ken Phillips (video design), Lucas Michael Chandler (properties design), Tatianna Covington-Parra (sound design), Diana Newington and Anna Owen (costume design) and Maggie Braun is the Production Stage Manager.

“I, for one, cannot wait to sit in the theatre and watch this show as many times as possible,” says Lee. “But what I’m most excited about is seeing all the kids who will come in costume as their favorite characters and get to see those characters live onstage. That absolutely thrills me to no end.”

“The Wizard of Oz” runs through July 21, at The Historic Fallon House Theatre in Columbia State Park – 11175 Washington St., Columbia, CA. For tickets, call the box office at (209) 532-3120, or purchase them online at SierraRep.org, or visit the East Sonora Theatre Box Office (Tuesday through Saturday, 11am-5pm), located at 13891 Mono Way in Sonora. The Fallon House Theatre Box Office is open two hours before each performance.

“The Wizard of Oz” is Rated G. ■

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SECOND SEASON OF BLACK OAK CONCERT SERIES TAKES CENTER STAGE For those looking to grab something to eat before the show, Black Oak Casino Resort has plenty of restaurants that fit all tastes – from fine dining at Seven Sisters to family-friendly options at The Mill Sports Bar & Grill. Kids will also enjoy the arcade and bowling center on the Family Fun Floor before or after any concert.

Last summer, Tuolumne welcomed an all-new entertainment venue, the Westside Pavilion at Black Oak Casino Resort. Home to the Black Oak Concert Series and located in the Sierra Foothills, the outside setting captures a carefree summertime vibe by combining great music with the great outdoors.

Now the Concert Series returns to the Westside Pavilion for a summer full of exciting acts.

Country music band Midland kicks things off on May 25, and an impressive list of big name stars continue to perform everything from classic rock to hip hop in the following months.

Announced shows include Sublime,

Lee Brice, Pitbull, Chris Young, Snoop Dogg, Pat Benatar, Bush and more.

New acts may continue to be added throughout the summer.

Visitors of all ages can take in the scenic views as these national acts perform live against a tree-lined backdrop. Bring a blanket and listen from the lawn with general admission, get a ticket for one of the 2,700 reserved seats or treat yourself to VIP seating and rock out near the stage. The venue has plenty of vendors offering food and drink options, and parking is free at Black Oak Casino Resort. Shuttles run continuously from the casino to the Pavilion, or you can purchase VIP tickets to park right at the gate.

Extend the fun and make an entire weekend out of the Concert Series by reserving a room at The Hotel or a site at The RV Park (lodging fills up fast, so book well in advance). Less than a mile from the Westside Pavilion, the updated guestrooms offer an inviting bed and cozy amenities to wind down after the show. Wake up surrounded by mountain views of the Sierra Nevada, refuel with breakfast in the cafĂŠ, then drive home refreshed.

The Black Oak Concert Series at the Westside Pavilion blends all the excitement of live entertainment with the laidback ease that comes from surrounding yourself with nature. The national acts and premier setting make every event feels fresh and thrilling, where the only thing missing is you.

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navigator

Exploring Istanbul

t s e W s t e e m t s a E e r e h W

By KELSEY CETIN

I

f there was one city that captured the combination of Eastern and Western world cultures, Istanbul would arguably be that city.

With a population of nearly 15 million people, Istanbul spans two continents, Asia and Europe.

Although Turkey is not a member of the EU, there are hints of both European and Middle Eastern culture throughout the city. There are women dressed in modern-day fashion as well as conservative Islamic garb. The city is full of beautiful historical sites that cannot be missed by travelers to Turkey. If you have only one day to visit this eclectic, historic city here are some places you definitely cannot miss.

While Ankara may be the capital of Turkey, Istanbul is the city that defines the country’s splendor. The sites, culture and cuisine are unparalleled in all of Turkey. Visiting these historical sites in real life should be on every avid traveler’s bucket list! ■ — Kelsey, a native of the Central Valley, lived as an expatriate in Izmir, Turkey for nearly five years.

During that time, she travelled all around Turkey writing about her experiences. You can read more about travel in Turkey and her home state of California on her blog atwww.onherjourney.com.

Dolmabahce Palace The Dolmabahce Palace is located in the Besktas district of Istanbul and is the newest of all the structures. It was built during the final years of the Ottoman Empire as an attempt to bring the empire into the “modern world” at the time. It was built right on the shores of the Bosphorus Strait in 1856. The Palace has three major sections, the administrative apartments, the ceremonial hall and the “imperial harem,” which is where the concubines of the Sultan lived. The palace is certainly a sight to behold and is reminiscent of palaces in England and France, built with the neobaroque style.

After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the republic of Turkey was established. The founder of the republic, Ataturk, used the palace as a presidential palace where he entertained guests while he was in Istanbul. It was in this palace that Ataturk passed away on November 10th, 1938.

Today the palace is open as a museum, however no photos are allowed inside. Admission costs roughly 90 Turkish Liras.

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Bosphorus Strait The Bosphorus Strait is as close as it gets to a location where East meets West. This narrow body of water sits between the continents of Asia and Europe. While Istanbul is much more blended, where different districts represent different cultures; the symbolism cannot be missed. While visiting Istanbul, riding the ferry across the Bosphorus is an affordable and fun way to see much of the city shoreline. It stops in all of the major districts and allows you to experience one of the most essential modes of transportation in Istanbul.

Blue Mosque

While Ankara may be the capital of Turkey,

This magnificent structure sits directly across from the Hagia Sophia and was commissioned

by Sultan Ahmet, which is the true name of the mosque (Sultan Ahmet Mosque).

It gets its name from the 20,000 blue ceramic tiles used to adorn the walls inside of the mosque. The construction was completed in 1617 and the mosque is still open and functioning today, where locals visit to pray.

Istanbul is the city that defines the country’s splendor.

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navigator

Hagia Sophia The Hagia Sophia was originally built as a basilica when Istanbul was still Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire ruled in the region.

This beautiful structure has been preserved for hundreds of years. When the Ottoman Empire conquered the region, the basilica was transformed into a mosque. After the founding of the republic of Turkey, Ataturk transformed the mosque into a museum. There are between 2.5 to 3 million visitors annually, making it Istanbul’s number one tourist attraction.

Galata Tower In Turkish they call this Galata Kulesi and it is one of the highest and oldest towers in the city.

It is 63 meters tall (206 feet) and offers a panoramic view of Istanbul. The tower was built as a defense against attackers in the 14th century and helped guards survey the area. Today there is a small cafĂŠ at the top of the tower and admission costs 25 Turkish Liras.

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STANISLAUS COUNTY FAIR

Discounted Fair Tickets On Sale Now! Get your discounted admission tickets, unlimited ride wristbands, and Fair season passes Now – July 11th.

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JULY 12-21, 2019 www.StanCoFair.com 209 Magazine 33-June-July 2019.indd 36

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PHOTO BY JOE MANNARINO ON Unsplash

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feature

Stroll through

American Graffiti history

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By SABRA STAFFORD

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G

eorge Lucas’ classic film “American Graffiti” cemented Modesto’s place in the collective nostalgia of sock hops, cruising, and classic cars. Every June people come together to celebrate the bygone days and car culture, but the memory of that time can be revisited any time with a stroll on the Modesto Historic Graffiti Cruise Route Wall of Fame.

The Walk of Fame recognizes the cruisers, hot rod racers, teeny boppers, and unforgettable personalities that left an indelible mark on Modesto and Lucas, and inspired “American Graffiti.”

The Walk of Fame is a self-guided tour of sidewalk markers celebrating the Legends of the Cruise. It traverses the path cars used to drag on 10th and 11th streets. The markers explore topics from Lucas’ biography to car clubs of the 1950s and 1960s to some of the hometown heroes. The Walk has a total of 25 stops.

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Founding Legends of the Cruise from 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 are: George Lucas, Leroy Applequist, Bart Bartoni, Chuck Billington, Candy Clark, Pete Hischier, Bo Hopkins, Paul Le Mat, Terry McGrath, Gene Winfield, Century Toppers Car Club, Bennie Furtado, Gerry Ramirez, Wendell Reed, Dennis Wilson, Charlie Reynolds, Don Monaco, Judy Felix Walk, Glen Wild, Dwight Trammel, Frank Burnett, The Faros, John Sanders, “Big Jon” Enberg, Worth Weldon, Bobby & Bell Gaines, the Modesto Throttlers, Ecurie Awol Racing Club, Don Wood, Allen Grant, Paul Corgiat, Roy Farriester, and Jack McCoy. The next inductees into the Walk of Fame will be announced and installed at 6:30 p.m. June 5 at the 10th Street Plaza in downtown Modesto.

For more information on the Walk of Fame visit www.modestocruiseroute. com ■

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feature

Cruise Stops

1. History of Modesto 2. American Graffiti Makes History 3. Key Classic Cars 4. Evolution of the Cruise Route 5. Modesto Through the Ages 6. George Lucas Bio and History 7. Car Clubs of the 50s and 60s 8. The Cruise Police and Police Cars

9. Music of American Graffiti 10. Modesto Music Scene Then and Now 11. Modesto Feeds the World 12. The High Schools of 1962 13. The Drive-Ins 14. The Car Customizers 15. The “Drag” 16. Hometown Heroes 17. Downtown Culture, Art and Music

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18. Why Did People Cruise?

19. Graffiti Summer 20. Modesto Community Experience 21. Lucas Locations in Modesto 22. Drag Racing 23. Nightclubs of the 50s and 60s 24. The Radio Stations 25. Movie Theaters Then and Now

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PHOTOS BY VIRGINA STILL/ 209 Magazine

feature

By VIRGINIA STILL

209MAGAZINE.COM

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T

here are car enthusiasts from all over the world that will travel to Modesto in June to attend the annual American Graffiti Festival. Numerous car clubs will be shining their fenders and revving up their engines to participate in the festival’s shows, cruising and live entertainment. The Modesto Area Street Rod Association will be among those rolling out in style in their classic cars this summer — something they’ve done since 1975.

Charter member Ray Lee is the club’s car show chairman and has been a member along with his wife Marsha since 1975. He was club president in 1993, 2014, 2015 and 2016. They have a 1968 Chevrolet Camaro.

“Over the years we have enjoyed many lifelong friendships and continue to make new friends at various classic car events,” said Lee.

“In 1975, our club started with a group of guys and gals just cruising our hotrods and hanging out.

Our bond was a common interest in classic cars. We didn’t have a lot of money in those days; we even camped out at rod runs because motels were out of the budget.

Reminiscing about all the club outings, picnics, car shows, weddings, etc. are all a very special part of being a Modesto Area Street Rod Association club member.”

The Lees have passed along their love of cars to their daughter Megan, who has her own muscle car, a 1968 Chevy II Nova, that they fully restored when she was in high school.

At first, club members drove pre-1949 street rods and attended car shows up and down the Valley

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and at times out of the state. The organization is family-oriented and many of their children have grown up in the club.

“We are active in our community, promoting car events which help us fundraise for many nonprofit organizations and families in need,” said Lee. “In 2012, we amended our bylaws and opened our club membership to all those who own pre-1973 classic cars. This change has complimented our club as there are so many 50s, 60s and 70s classics being restored. Our goal and objective is to promote and preserve interest in the classic car hobby for the next generation.”

MASRA hosts a Graffiti Classic 8

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feature

In 1975, our club started with a group of guys and gals just cruising our hotrods and hanging out.

Our bond was a common interest in classic cars.

— Ray Lee Car Show during the first Sunday in June each year as the kickoff event for Graffiti Summer in Modesto.

This year the Graffiti Classic will be held on June 2.

“Our show has become the largest single day car show in Modesto,” added Lee. “We draw over 500 of the finest automobiles and the friendliest people to the unique setting of the McHenry Village Shopping Center.”

Currently there are 28 “family” members in the club and they do accept new members. The membership is open to classic car owners who own a 1972 model or older.

They meet at Perko’s on Sylvan and Oakdale Roads two Tuesdays a month.

“The MASRA fully supports the Modesto car culture and the Graffiti Summer events,” stated Lee. “We are proud to be a part of the Graffiti Summer steering committee and meet once a month with Jennifer Mullen of Visit Modesto. We also hold current memberships in the Association of California Car Clubs,

National Street Rod Association and Good Guys Rod and Custom Association.”

Some of the current members have been with the club for many years and have classic cars that they have restored themselves.

Bob Huntley has been a member for eight years and has a 1951 Ford Business Coupe. He has been president twice and enjoys the comradery of the members, which was a big factor in joining the club. The Business Coupe body style is what attracted Huntley to his 51 Ford.

Huntley said his favorite part of the Graffiti celebration is “the gathering of all the people that have the same interest as I have with older cars and continuing the tradition of hot rodding as we did back in the 50s.”

Vern and Josie Silva joined the club in 1977, and they have a 1932 Ford Roadster. A highlight for the Silvas is sharing their love for street rods with their friends.

Jerry and Toni Sauls have a 1956 Station Wagon and have been part

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of the club for 24 years. They also have a 1932 Roadster, which Toni added “because the 32 is what classic cars are all about.”

Larry and Saundra Wing were members many years ago when the club first started and took a few years off and then rejoined in 2013. They have an affinity for 1932 Fords.

“The highlight of being in the club is making friends with people who share our love for street rods,” said the Wings. “The first coupe I built was at age 14. I have built all five 1932 Fords in my garage.”

For all of the members of MASRA, June is a special time of year.

“The month of June in the city of Modesto is always filled with excitement,” said Lee. “It’s like traveling back in time, cruising in your favorite car with all your friends, attending car events and just being a part of the famous Modesto car culture history.” ■ For more information about MASRA, call 209-521-6528.

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feature

2019 Events 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Friday nights (all summer long)

June 7 Offcial North Modesto Kiwanis Classic Car Parade

A & W ROOT BEER, 1404 G ST., MODESTO Classic cars, Elvis, hula hoop contest, karaoke and root beer floats served by car hops on roller skates

DOWNTOWN MODESTO AND DOWN MCHENRY AVENUE The parade will cruise through Downtown Modesto and go down McHenry Avenue to Briggsmore Avenue and back to downtown. The parade will feature thousands of classic cars, hot rods and street rods starting at 6:30 p.m. Car registration includes parade and both days of the festival. To enter your classic car visit www.americangraffitifestival.com.

Wednesday nights (all summer long) VELVET CREAMERY, 2204 MCHENRY AVE., MODESTO Classic car show, activities, raffles and more

June 7 Downtown Cruise-In DOWNTOWN MODESTO, 1010 10TH ST. Musical entertainment and live bands will perform from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Special parking for classic cars. For more information call 209-526-5588.

June 1 "American Graffti" (1973) STATE THEATRE, 1307 J ST., MODESTO Ready for root beer floats and dancing in the aisles to one of the best film soundtracks in history? Don your best duds from the late ‘50s and early ‘60s, or dress as your favorite character from “American Graffiti,” George Lucas’ consummate comingof-age film, and join in the fun. Doors open at noon; movie starts at 1 p.m. Tickets are $5. For tickets call (209) 527-4697 or visit thestate.org.

June 8-9 American Graffti Car Show & Festival MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE, 400 TUOLUMNE BLVD., MODESTO This 21st Annual event is presented by the North Modesto Kiwanis. The car show and festival will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

June 8 and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 9. Check out the classic cars, stroll through hundreds of specially selected food and vendor booths. Register your classic car by calling 1-888-7469763 or at www.americangraffitifestival.com. Spectator tickets are only available at the gate. Look for admission coupons in the official Graffiti Summer tabloid. Adults $10 and children 12 and under are free. All proceeds go to local charities for children.

June 2 14th Annual Graffti Classic Car Show MCHENRY VILLAGE, 1700 MCHENRY AVE., MODESTO Modesto Area Street Rod Association’s 14th annual classic car show at the McHenry Village Shopping Center will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. New this year: special parking area, celebrating Pre ’49 street rods. Limited to the first 48 street rods. Cars in this area receive a custom T-shirt. DJ playing rockin’ oldies.

Raffle drawings all day long, with special dignitary awards and over 50 trophy sponsor awards. Early registration packet pick up on June 1st from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at McHenry Village back parking lot. Free ice cream cones to all cars that attend packet pick-up. For more information call (209) 529-0366 or (209) 521-6607 or visit www.modestoareastreetrod.com.

June 15 26th Annual Back to Graffti at the Fruit Yard THE FRUIT YARD, 7948 YOSEMITE BLVD., MODESTO Join the longest running classic car show in Modesto commemorating George Lucas’ “American Graffiti” movie. Car show will feature raffle prizes, music, vendors and more. For car registration, call 209-577-3093.

June 23 Graffti-Con 2019

June 3-6 Mid-Valley Chevy Club Park n' Shine

MODESTO CENTRE PLAZA, 10TH AND K STREETS Celebrate Modesto in a fun comic-con and car show environment. Dress up as your favorite characters or go retro rockabilly. Vendors, artists and fan clubs, classic cars and more.

Tickets are $5 at the door, with kids under 12 free with a paid adult. Graffiti-Con will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.graffiti-con.com.

CAR SHOWS ARE FREE AND AT A DIFFERENT LOCATION EACH NIGHT FROM 5 P.M. TO 8 P.M. Monday: Century Center, 2401 E Orangeburg Ave., Modesto Tuesday: Vintage Faire Mall, 3401 Dale Rd., Modesto Wednesday: Downtown Modesto I & J streets Thursday: Cool Hand Luke’s, 2505 Patterson Rd., Riverbank For Complete Park-n-Shine event listing directions, visit www. midvallechevy.com/2019-Park-n-Shine.html or call 209-531-3495.

June 29 Modesto Nuts Graffti Night JOHN THURMAN FIELD, 601 NEECE DR., MODESTO Take me out to the ballgame to enjoy action packed baseball, classic cars, ‘50s and ‘60s music, root beer floats and fun contests. Modesto Nuts take on the Stockton Ports, with game time 7:05 p.m. Fireworks after the game. For tickets, call 209-572-4487 or visit www.modestonuts.com.

June 5 Graffti Cruise Route Presentation STARTING AT 6:30 P.M. IN THE 10TH STREET PLAZA Local celebrities will be inducted into the Historic Graffiti Walk of Fame, followed with live music.

For more information, visit www. modestocruiseroute.com.

June 30 12th Annual Rod & Custom Car Show ELKS LODGE, 645 CHARITY WAY, MODESTO Classic cars and custom hot rods are the feature of this event that also includes music, food and beverages available for purchase. Breakfast will run from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Proceeds to benefit Modesto Elks. Free admission for spectators. Car show starts at 9 a.m. Car participants parking is from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Car registration is $30 in advance and $35 the day of the show and includes lunch. Awards presented at 3 p.m.

To register, call 209-524-4421.

June 6 MoBand Concert in the Park: "Graffti Love" GRACEADA PARK, 401 NEEDHAM AVE., MODESTO MoBand is celebrating their 100th year at this beloved summer time in the park concert series. Spread out your blankets, bring a picnic and enjoy the sounds of MoBand. Admission is free and the concert begins at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www. moband.org.

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flavor

By VIRGINIA STILL

PHOTOS BY VIRGINIA STILL/ 209 Magazine

C

elebrating their fiveyear anniversary in July, Memo’s Cocina and Tequila Bar lives up to their name with over 100 different tequilas handpicked by Memo himself.

Since they opened in downtown Turlock there have been a few changes, but one thing that has not changed is the quality of food and drinks and the upscale, trendy experience.

“We wanted to do something more modern and trendy here,” said owner Karina Ramirez. “So we did our homework. We went to the Bay Area, Sacramento and we went down south. We saw different ideas. We loved the concept of bringing authentic Mexican food. The bar we wanted everything fresh; there is nothing premixed. We wanted everything made from scratch.”

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That “everything” at the bar made from scratch includes their purees, syrups and their juices.

They make their own triple sec with limes and agave and hand craft specialty cocktails. They feature a new creation each week created with a Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, tequila or mescal which has been growing in popularity.

Ramirez explained that there are three generations – her father-in-law, husband and son all named Guillermo – whom the restaurant bar is named after.

“Memo” is a nickname for Guillermo. Her husband really wanted to have a genuine and unique tequila bar but that is not the only thing they serve. They have a full bar with a variety of beer, wine, and spirits.

For those that don’t know much about tequila they can try a

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flight and bartender Jose Ramos, Jr. can tell you all about them. He can tell you which tequila can suit your palate or the ones that are sweeter, smokier or smoother. They have sipping tequilas which are higher end tequilas which are not recommended to be taken with lime and salt so that guests can taste it on their palate and really enjoy it.

Ramos has been bartending at Memo’s for the past eight years and truly loves to create craft cocktails for guests. With the Central Valley being a mecca of farmland they use fresh, local, seasonal ingredients for their cocktails.

“I like creating drinks,” said Ramos. “I am really into my drinks and making sure the customers are satisfied with their drinks as well.”

Among the many options of tequila offered, there are Espolòn, Patron and Casamigos which was co-founded by George Clooney and Rande Gerber. They even have tequila that is $300 a shot called Clase Azul Ultra Tequila. The bottle itself is made with a little silver, gold and platinum. Keeping up with food trends there is organic tequila as well like 1 2 3 or “Uno, Dos, Tres” which is certified organic-made with 100 percent blue weber agave and aged in small barrels. The price points differ dependent on the type of tequila requested.

“Something else that has become really popular is the mezcal,” added Ramirez. “A lot of the places in the Bay Area and the trendy areas are bringing more mezcal in. It is the same process as tequila but the mezcal is smoked underground

versus instilled so you get that smokiness. So you are going to taste a smoky flavor; it kind of reminds me of more like a whiskey but I love it. It makes the cocktail so much better. It is totally different than tequila. The cooking process is different.”

The Artisan Mezcal Cocktails include Mezcalito which is a house favorite made with fresh muddled oranges, agave nectar, fresh squeezed lime and orange juice. Another creation to try for a tasty blend of some unlikely flavors is the El Bandido Bueno, which that has fresh red bell pepper and muddled pineapple, lime juice and agave with a chipotle powder rim that gives your palate an unusual but extremely tasty cocktail. Ramos stated that people will come in and ask for the BBQ cocktail.

Another popular drink year round is the Watermelon Agua Fresca that has the perfect balance of sweet and refreshing made with fresh watermelon that is muddled with fresh basil, fresh agave, hand squeezed lime juice, with tequila and a Tajin rim. Not only is the presentation fabulous but the flavor is delightful.

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The Artisan Tequila Cocktail that one may find quite pleasing is the El Mango served with a reposado, mango puree, chamoy, agave nectar and fresh lime juice.

A new cocktail that they offer for those that may be looking for something healthy is the Kombucha cocktail made with fresh fruit.

Another option may be the Pura Vida that is made with muddled pineapple and coconut water, as Ramos said, “So you can hydrate while you dehydrate.”

They are open seven days a week and have happy hour Monday through Friday. On Thursdays they have $3 margaritas made with fresh lime juice, agave, and their house tequila Lunazul that is 100 percent agave hand-harvested and small-batch distilled. They offer a brunch on Saturday and Sunday with bottomless mimosas.

The knowledge and the passion can be seen and heard from Ramirez and Ramos and they invite everyone to come have a fresh and tasty cocktail. If you don’t know what to order just ask for the bartender special and Ramos will whip up something that will delight your taste buds. ■

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flavors

Landmark serves up modern fare

By VIRGINIA STILL

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hile many visit the Jamestown Hotel to step back in time at the historic site, it’s the edible fare that keeps people coming back time and time again.

The building that is home to the Jamestown Hotel and restaurant was built in 1919.

“It was converted into a hospital in the ‘30s and back into a hotel in the late 1940s, early 1950s,” said General Manager Erin Eggert.

Today, there are eight rooms and 10 beds available to guests at the hotel, along with a full restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Three chefs — Christian Ortiz, Chris Nolen and Colin Huddleston — run the kitchen with a passion to satisfy the palate of every guest. They have all been cooking at the restaurant for over four years and in the restaurant business for many more.

The restaurant is considered American and Italian with a variety of pastas, steaks, burgers, soups, salads and specials that are made from scratch with local produce, herbs from their garden and seasonal items.

They butcher their own certified Angus beef to offer guests prime rib, filet mignon and New York steaks.

“We are labeled certified Angus beef so that is a plus for us,” stated Ortiz. “We want to put our name out there and put as much detail as we can and consistency in our menu. We do our own desserts and 99 percent of the stuff we make here is from scratch.”

They do banquets and a lot of parties on the outdoor patio. Live music is a huge draw during the summer for those looking for dinner and entertainment.

While their most popular breakfast and lunch items are staples such as Eggs Benedict, the

Club Sandwich and their burgers, the chefs try to also offer something out of the ordinary, like dishes that feature zoodles.

“They are zucchini noodles; it is more vegan,” said Ortiz. “The presentation is another wow factor. We change our specials constantly. We utilize everything that we have in house.”

Ortiz recalls being in the kitchen with his grandmother and aunt when he was younger and really enjoying playing with food.

“I have been doing this all my life,” he said. “I like pleasing people. If you do something you love you are not working. So, I like to make people smile.”

Chef Nolen has been in the industry for approximately 22 years, starting out right out of high school washing dishes. He moved up from there and was managing a restaurant at one time. He loves creating his own recipes and has written several recipe books in the last 20 years.

“I love to invent things, something that no one has thought of or come up with,” added Nolen.

“Look at a bunch of stuff and go ‘this is what I am going to do’ and you create something that people love. It just popped into my head.

It just happens.”

Among the scratch-made sauces and soups the chefs make, Nolen makes a specialty: Osako noodles, a cold Asian noodle dish often served with chicken.

The Jamestown Hotel restaurant serves breakfast starting at 6 a.m., with lunch at 11 a.m. and dinner service begins at 5 p.m. They offer guests brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The Jamestown Hotel and Restaurant is located at 18153 Main St., Jamestown. ■ For more information, call 209-984-3902.

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I love to invent things, something that no one has thought of or come up with . . .

— Chef Nolen

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: JAMESTOWN HOTEL AND RESTAURANT 18153 Main Street Jamestown, CA 95327 CONTACT: (209) 984-3902 HOURS: Breakfast starts at 6 am Lunch begins at 11 am Dinner service begins at 5 pm Brunch available Saturday & Sunday from 11am to 2 pm

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flavors

Watermelon Bloody Mary Serves: Makes 4 cocktails Ingredients 2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 1 medium jalapeno pepper, stem removed, chopped 2 limes, juice only 6 oz. low-sodium tomato juice 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1 teaspoon horseradish

hot sauce, to taste 1/3 cup vodka lime wedges chili lime salt ice Optional garnish 4 6� bamboo skewers watermelon wedges prosciutto cucumber slices jalapeno slices green olives

Directions In blender, blend watermelon cubes and jalapeno pepper until completely smooth. Pour mixture through fine sieve set over pitcher.

Add lime juice, salt, pepper, fish sauce, horseradish and hot sauce, to taste, to pitcher; stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add vodka and stir.

Line rims of four glasses with lime juice from lime wedges; dip in chili lime salt poured on plate. Carefully put ice in each glass and divide Watermelon Bloody Mary mixture evenly.

Add garnishes, as desired, by skewering watermelon wedges, prosciutto, cucumber, jalapeno and green olives. Place garnishes in glasses and serve.

Recipe courtesy of the National Watermelon Promotion Board

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thegreatoutdoors

Wet winter makes big impact on Sierra recreation

By MATT JOHANSON kiing blissfully down backcoundo that, more or less comfortably, and try slopes, warming by a hot we regrouped the next morning and stove and enjoying the worldcompleted the journey. class company at Ostrander Ski Hut As usual, Ostrander made the effort are usually pleasures available only in worthwhile. The rustic shelter built in winter. But the tremendous snowfall of 1941 provides warmth and comfort in a the 2018-19 winter made an extended winter wonderland of spectacular scenseason possible, and a few fortunate ski- ery. Nearby Horse Ridge offers miles ers got to enjoy Yosemite’s historic cabin of pristine skiing for those who would rather climb up slopes themselves than into early spring.

My two cousins and I were among the take a chair-lift; the descents are more fulfilling that way. During the evenings, lucky ones, although it didn’t feel that visitors from around the world cook way at first. Though we knew better, we sumptuous meals and trade tales of made a number of mistakes on the tenoutdoor adventure. mile trek to the cabin, such as starting Skiing (or snow-shoeing) to Ostrandlate and losing our route. After darker challenges even fit and experienced ness fell, we finally called it quits and visitors; beginners should not attempt it. dug in for a brisk night of camping on But for those who enjoy a good workout the snow. At least we were equipped to

S

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on skis, the peace and beauty of the mountains, and the simple comforts of a beautiful wood and granite shelter, Ostrander Hut is worth visiting time after time.

This winter’s heavy snowfall (162 percent of normal) opened other doors for recreation even as it will apparently close others. Ski resorts enjoyed a banner season, many staying open months later than they did in the recent drought years. A wildflower superbloom erupted across the foothills that will climb up the mountains all summer. Lakes are filling and rivers are raging; rafters expect epic flows on the Tuolumne, Merced and American rivers.

But the large snowpack has drawbacks too. High roads like Ebbetts, Sonora and Tioga passes appear headed for June or even July openings, several weeks later than their average dates. Yosemite closed its popular High Sierra camps for the year. Hundreds of permit holders for popular hikes like the John Muir Trail will miss their early summer dates because access roads will not open in time, snow-covered trails will be impassable or both. Many Pacific Crest Trail hikers will skip the whole Sierra Nevada for those reasons. And all that snowmelt will eventually fuel a mosquito-breeding boom like few have ever seen.

To cope with these issues, your correspondent offers the following suggestions. Consider later mountain visits this year: September and October should be terrific for camping. Backpackers can avoid High Sierra complications by taking lower-elevation and more southern treks. Those who do brave snowcovered passes should bring crampons and ice axes to protect steep, icy crossings. ■

Camp 4 — Yosemite’s historic home of rock climbers and other travelers, will adopt a lottery reservation system for the first-time starting May 21. Camp 4 has always operated as a walk-in campground, but because of its popularity, would-be campers had to arrive hours before its kiosk opens (often well before dawn) to secure a site. The new system will require campers to visit recreation.gov the day before they wish to arrive and enter a lottery. My take: this pilot program has a chance to relieve the aggravation of those enduring long waits only to be denied sites. But Yosemite Valley camping in summer will never be easy, especially on weekends, and those who can are better off visiting during the shoulder seasons, or at least midweek . . .

Kudos to Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care which took in three parentless bear cubs in March. Arriving at about a month old and weighing only

four pounds each, the cubs had reached 17-19 pounds by late April, the facility reported.

Caregivers are calling the cubs Blaze, Yreka and Paradise.

“They’re still loving their bottle feedings but are starting to eat berries and other fruit. They have bear tempers but thankfully most of the time take it out on each other, just like kids!” a caregiver wrote. Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care is raising money for the animals’ care and to expand its facility. Find out more and consider contributing at www.ltwc.org Sierra Nevada Brewing Company has launched a Pale Ale for Trails campaign to raise money for trail and river care and protection. The brewery has partnered with American Hiking Society to promote National Trails Day on June 21.

“Spending time in the wilds is good for the body, soul and mind, and that’s something we try to live by as we operate our business,” said founder Ken Grossman. I’ll drink to that! ■

— Matt Johanson authored the new guidebook, “Sierra Summits: A Guide to 50 Peak Experiences in California’s Range of Light.”

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thegreatoutdoors

with

e k o r t s t a e h t u o

By JAROD BALLARDO

S

ummertime fishing can be some of the best fishing of the year — if you play your cards right. No longer do I beat myself to death in the blistering heat, unless I’m in a tournament, or practicing for a tournament. I prefer to get on the water as early as possible and get off the water before the heat intensifies.

For trout fishermen, they either head up to the higher elevation lakes and streams where there is cooler water, or target kokanee first thing in the morning. It’s not uncommon to see them on the water before the sun comes up and off the water by 10 a.m.

For bass fishermen, they can be seen fishing all day long. I prefer to be on the water as soon as the sun comes up and off the water around noon. If I’m fishing in the evening, I usually launch around 4 p.m. and fish until 9 or 10 p.m.

Many anglers don’t know why the fishing is good right before the sun comes up and right before the sun goes down. What makes it good is that there are fish that feed more at night than in the day and there are fish that feed more during the day than at night. By fishing those times of transition there’s a larger population of fish actively feeding. ■ 209MAGAZINE.COM

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The Delta:

Summer is the time of year where my season-long launch pass begins to pay for itself.

Like the fish, once the sun gets high, I’m usually seeking shade. The secret has been out now for several years that bass during the summer are under the grass. Some anglers prefer fishing a topwater bait around grass and current, while others prefer to punch baits through the grass. I usually will fish a topwater bait like a Whopper Plopper or Snag proof Frog during the morning hours and switch to a punching rig during the day.

For anyone who fishes the Delta, there is so much grass to fish, finding a productive spot can be like finding a needle in a haystack. I seek out the best spot that has grass either floating, on the surface, or subsurface. Those spots include ditches, points, wood, current or eddies. I’m also fishing with the lightest weight that I can effectively get through the grass with. My bait of choice bas been Reaction Innovations Sweet Beaver. My favorite color has been the Big Texan. As far as topwater baits, I’m either using white or black.

One of my biggest complaints with fishing Snag Proof Frogs is the hook up percentage.

A lot of time the frog gets bumped or short struck. That’s why I prefer the Whopper Plopper over the frog unless the grass is too thick. In that case, I make note of where I’m getting blowups and return to those spots with a punch bait and often can catch that fish that attacked my frog earlier. 209MAGAZINE.COM

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thegreatoutdoors

The Lakes: Fishing in the lakes this time of year is all about the kokanee. If you’ve never fished for kokanee, you’re missing out. Not only are they some of the best tasting fish you’ll ever eat, they are very plentiful in our lakes. Kokanee fight hard, and have very soft mouths, making them extremely hard to keep on the hook once hooked. It’s important to have a rod with a very soft tip. Kokanee primarily feed on zooplankton and other tiny aquatic animals the size of a pinprick. They’re also extremely aggressive and curious, causing them to be easily enticed by a passing lure. Most kokanee lures have two hooks on them, and they are also extremely scent driven. I used to put a piece of shoe peg corn on the back hook, but not anymore. What I learned was that the kokanee will key in on the scented corn and often strike that hook, making it complete sense to add the corn to the front hook instead. Since making that change, my hookup to catch percentage has improved.

Locating kokanee is pretty easy if you have a depth finder. They’re a cold-water fish, so they’re going to be as deep, especially as the sun gets higher. If you have a colored depth finder, they can be identified by how tightly they are grouped, and how much of the color yellow is visible in the arches or the group of fish. Kokanee are schooling fish, there’s no mistaking them. In a lot of cases, your whole screen is going to be lit up with arches, balls of fish and lines going everywhere. If you don’t have a depth finder, follow the fleet of boats that are most likely trolling for kokanee. Most guys will even share with what depth they are catching them if you ask nicely. If you’re still unsure, I’d say fish the main lake or where there are any main lake structures visible like a bridge or around the dam. That’s more than likely where the deepest coolest water is.

Lastly, get there early! The earlier the better, most guys are able to get their limits before noon as the action is always better in the early morning hours than mid-day.

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HELP US

PREVENT MOSQUITOES! Call the District for Mosquitofish used in

WATER TROUGHS, NEGLECTED POOLS AND WATER FEATURES.

REPORT TO THE DISTRICT: • Large amounts of mosquitoes • Report neglected swimming pools • Daytime biting mosquitoes around the home Yellow Fever Mosquito

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thegreatoutdoors

‘Sierra Summits’

reaches new heights

By BOB LEUNG

S

ub-titled “A Guide to 50 Peak Experiences in California’s Range of Light,” Matt Johanson’s newest book offers a wide range of experiences covering the 400 miles of the Sierra Nevada range. For example, beginners and hikers with children can start on Sentinel Dome in Yosemite, an easy 2.4 mile round-trip with a minimal elevation gain of 422 feet. More experienced hikers seeking a more strenuous challenge can tackle the 10.2 mile climb of Mount Gould, a 13,005-foot peak in the Eastern Sierra with 3,805 feet of elevation gain. Also included in the book are the iconic climbs of Half Dome and Mount Whitney.

The only constant among the hikes is that they can be done in a single day without technical gear.

Published by Falcon Guides, the production is first-rate, from the layout of the large, easy-to-read maps, essential information (distance, elevation, directions), to the many attractive color photos.

Best of all, “Sierra Summits” is a guidebook with heart. The introduction begins with a story from Johanson about climbing Mount Ritter in the Eastern Sierra with his brother in 2015, shortly after the passing of their father. Sixty-three years earlier, their father had climbed the same mountain as a 14-year-old with his scout troop. Now, having reached the same summit, Johanson writes of his shared joy. “This is where Dad

taught us about camping, backpacking, and fishing from a young age.”

After this intimate introduction, Johanson puts on his guide hat and takes the reader to the first of the 50 hikes. You are in good hands. Johanson spent two years crisscrossing the state to research and compile the information for this book. Before that, however, he hiked, climbed, biked, and skied, noted and photographed countless miles of trails that make up these 50 hikes.

The book is neatly divided into five sections: Lake Tahoe, Central Sierra, Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, and Eastern Sierra. Each hike begins with an overview, followed by information about the distance and elevation, and a rating of difficulty.

Each section also features a brief history of the region, and much space and tribute is given to the native peoples who inhabited these regions long before Europeans Americans first appeared. Unfortunately, much of the history is tragic, as the tribes were forcefully removed from their homelands to make way for the miners upon discovery of gold in the region in 1849. Reverence for these native peoples begins in the dedication of the opening pages and continues on throughout the book.

In addition to serving as a guidebook, “Sierra Summits” could also serve as a photography book. The photos are that outstanding. From capturing the majesty of the giant sequoias in Calaveras Big Trees State Park (Central Sierra), the serenity of Lower Monarch Lake via Sawtooth Pass Trail (Sequoia National Park), to the impossible rock formations of Mount Gould (Eastern Sierra), the photos make you want to say, “I want to go there!”

Just be sure to take a copy of “Sierra Summits” with you. It will make for an informative and delightful companion. ■

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fulloflife

g n i s Chathe

By TERESA HAMMOND

W

ho’s ready for swimsuit season?

As I pen this piece for our latest issue I feel the need to keep it real.

The truth is, I had grand plans and ambitions at the start of the year to demonstrate wonderful “before” and “after” photos of life post bootcamp. I just knew, that as I have before, I would go full force into this latest activity and share my screaming success with our readers.

The photos would serve as great inspiration for those looking for the answer to bathing suit blues and well, I … well I would rock said “after” body aboard a beautiful boat on the lake this summer.

Now before you go thumbing feverishly through the pages looking for said pics, save yourself – they’re not here. I still plan to be on the lake, just not wearing my suits in the manner in which I had thought.

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Yes, I know all about the whole “love your body” movement and as much as I applaud and respect all who are in that space – well that’s not me. My confidence, while it is strong in some areas, the swim suit is a whole other animal.

It’s fair to say I found the bootcamp experience to be inspiring as well as educational.

While the bathing suit idea was great motivation, the true purpose was to help ready my body for another ambitious run season. With 2018 and few miles logged behind me, I knew it was time to return to self-discipline and I longed for my sneakers.

Bootcamp would certainly help whip me back into shape, just as it had so many others. How could I fail, right? While I won’t go as far as to say I failed, I did complete it after all, however not with the success or newfound

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activity passion I had expected.

The coaches, as well as the owners of the studio I joined, were so supportive, understanding and inspiring that I actually wrote about the business and culture in this same issue. The support and commitment to community which has been cultivated in the Get Fit environment was one I’d not experienced before.

As I struggled to stay motivated to make it to the studio just two — yes, two days a week — I couldn’t help but wonder why. It’s only two days, I’d tell myself, you do hard things, you can do this. As weeks passed and various class times tried, I still wasn’t feeling it. This would be right around the time I realized two key things.

The first, I later told the owners during our 209 interview, I’m a bit of a tramp (for lack of better word) when it comes to trying the latest workout trend. This could also be said for me once upon a time by way of diet or the now more PC “eating plan.” Yet, alas with some things with age does come wisdom and when it comes to food I default to the decade old practical doctor advice of healthy eating and exercise. No eliminating food groups, just re-assessing how my body responds to some versus others and adjusting accordingly.

The second lesson was perhaps the biggest, I’m an introvert. Socially speaking this could not be more inaccurate. I love people, hence my career choice and passion for what I do. However, when it comes time to get my sweat on, if not leading a group by way of yoga class, then I’d rather be alone. “No wonder I love to run,” I texted a friend during a seven-mile run and midway through my bootcamp.

For those judging my texting while running, I have to say some of my best ideas come during the solace of sneaker time. Many a story write themselves while running in the early morning or out on a race course.

My girlfriend returned the text with her own admission of the same problem. Gyms are “just too people” another shared a few days later. That’s not our social time. The three of us are solo runners, and if we do opt to run with one another we don’t speak but rather grab coffee or a good stretch in a driveway post run. That works for us.

So what’s the point of all this really?

My hope is that a few will read this and find comfort in knowing you’re not alone. Even the most confident have their weaknesses and one size does not fit all by way of work out or food plan.

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I’ve also come to learn in this next phase of life that a slowing metabolism is a terrible thing.

Just when you think you have it all figured out, the clock changes and the body follows suit – that’s real stuff and I wish more spoke about it openly (expect that next issue).

In the meantime, I’m still working toward reducing the belly, firming up the legs and toning the arms. Things I choose to still chase, not because society has told me to, but because I enjoy life in a healthy body. I ask a lot of my body, more days than not and if I expect it to take care of me, then I best take care of it.

Happy hunting. ■

I’m still working toward reducing the belly, firming up the legs and toning the arms. Things I choose to still chase, not because society has told me to, but because I enjoy life in a healthy body.

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5/22/2019 5:51:01 PM

fulloflife

Community transformation

By TERESA HAMMOND

A

feeling of energy is the first thing one notices when entering a Get Fit studio.

Be it the Modesto or more recently opened Oakdale location, one can’t help but feel their pulse increase and their heart pump as they prepare for their 45-minute workout.

“There just was something really amazing happening in the community here and with the people,” Get Fit Modesto owner Jonathan Crenshaw said of first entering as a client with wife Tara in late 2010.

The husband-wife duo was so inspired by the studio possibility they purchased the business in 2012. A firefighter and math teacher by day, the couple shared purchase of the studio was not about the financial gain.

“We saw the impact and potential we could have here,” Jonathan said of the couple’s decision, noting they saw growing community, as well as the good which could be done with it.

Get Fit owners, from left, Jonathan and Tara Crenshaw, Modesto and Allison and Bear Walters, Oakdale are committed to bringing community, fitness and nutrition to the 209.

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Since that moment in 2012 the facility has not only grown exponentially by membership, but branched out to a second location thanks to friends and husband-wife team Bear and Allison Walters.

The Walters also became members of the Modesto studio and equally became affected by not only the energy but the extreme sense of community felt within the building. Eventually Allison joined the training team and in 2014 the Crenshaws began discussing a franchise opportunity with the couple.

“What the awesome thing about this situation is, we had 35 people who would drive from Oakdale here for four years every day,” Jonathan stated.

He also shared that he and wife Tara were in no hurry to branch out the business with just anyone. The couple waited for people they felt would not only embrace their mis-

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sion, but lived it as they did.

Their mission simple: To move people toward whole health through community, fitness and nutrition. A mission which they are so committed to, it’s front and center on the wall of both locations.

While the foursome is both passionate and committed to what they do, the spotlight is not what they’re about.

Both couples give credit to their team for the ultimate outcome of client success as well as community built within the studio spaces.

“We really lead with heart,” Jonathan shared. “It starts with our team.

“Our people are here because they can feel our authenticity,” he continued. “Most of us are here because we really see the impact and influence we’ve been given. We’re stewards of that and at the end of the day we want to leave the world better than we came into it.”

As members move through the varying circuits and stations pre-set by their coaches, some smiles fade, grimaces appear and high fives are exchanged as they transition. It is 45 minutes of continuous physical challenge, with station changes serving as the members “resting” time.

“We are world class group fitness trainers at what we do specifically,” Jonathan stated. “But the reality is no matter how awesome a training facility is, what gets people coming back is their friends and their relationships.”

In addition to the workouts, the Get Fit locations also host week long Bootcamps periodically offering its members help with nutrition, as well as one on one coach time to help achieve their goals. The objective, for all programs to offer one or all three ideals in a higher dose. Ultimately to no longer be needed to do so for the member to maintain whole health.

“We want to see people successful on their own,” Jonathan said.

Oakdale co-owner Allison recognized the connection members have to one another, the community at large as well as their coaches as elements of the overall success.

“We’ve made some really quick connection with people, because they become transparent,” she said of the trust that develops. “They are best friends now (in some classes). That’s the best part for me.”

And opportunity to find that connection in any given class is more than available. The Modesto location hosts 64 classes a week and Oakdale hosts approximately 42.

There are a variety of membership types, as well as childcare. Get Fit is a contract free facility.

“I see God in the little tiny circumstances that happen in people’s lives,” Bear shared of what he witnesses as an owner. “There are big things, but I get a big encouragement when I see a connection made with somebody or I see a small thing that is ‘a coincidence’ That’s God at work right there, making a move in somebody’s life.”

Additional information on both locations can be found at www.getfitcommunity.com. ■ 209MAGAZINE.COM

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fulloflife

NO

PLEASE

By ANGELINA MARTIN

T

he word “diet” can be a scary one. Depriving myself of different foods I love has never been at the top of my to-do list, but reaching and maintaining a healthy weight for myself has. Throughout the years I’ve tried it all — every fad diet you can think of, from Whole 30 to paleo to just plain clean eating, but in my 25 years of life I’ve never found the success that I’ve found this past year with the keto diet.

In June 2018 I weighed 187 pounds, which is just a little too high for a girl with a 5-foot, 4-inch frame. It wasn’t the highest weight I had ever reached, but when I saw photos of myself and thought about the way my body and mind felt at that size, I knew I needed to make a change. My weight has always fluctuated due to the different diets I’ve tried, but I was never able to stick to one specific way of eating and usually found myself backsliding all the way back to square one. So, last year when I saw people on the keto diet, eating bacon, butter, cheese and plenty of other things I love, I knew I had to give it a try.

Today when I step on the scale, the number 140 looks back at me. While that weight looks great statistically, it’s not just about the numbers. I feel great mentally and physically, and I have keto to thank for changing the way I’ve looked at food over the past year.

So, what is the keto diet? In essence, it’s a very low-carb, high fat diet that involves drastically reducing carbohydrate intake and replacing it with fat, putting the body into a metabolic state called ketosis. When this happens, the body becomes incredibly efficient at burning fat for energy, rather than glucose, and also turns fat into ketones in the

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liver, which can supply energy for the brain. The diet can also cause massive reductions in blood sugar and insulin levels — and produce rapid weight loss.

If you’re confused, don’t worry because I was, too. But I was seeing people on social media by the thousands who had tried this way of eating and found success, so I was determined to join them.

I researched for days, watching different videos on YouTube, reading blog posts and following Instagram accounts that gave me ideas on what to expect and how to jump right into the diet.

I quickly learned that I could have no more than 20 grams of carbohydrates in one day (there are about that many carbs in one banana — who knew?) and that fats, like avocado, heavy cream, cheese, nuts and more, are actually good for you.

Once I started, I could see why it works. My first meal on the keto diet of scrambled eggs with spinach topped with cheese and bacon kept me full until dinner time, and the results of eating keto after one week had me hooked.

I felt better, I had more energy and I even lost five pounds during that seven days.

That was June 2018, and today in June 2019 I’m still going strong, though there have been a few hiccups along the way (no one’s perfect). I’m three pounds away from the 50-pounds-lost mark, but it hasn’t been easy.

I’ve had to utilize the kitchen a lot more than I did in the past, cooking keto meals like creamy Tuscan chicken, bunless bacon burgers and loaded jicama fries with my roommate. My air fryer, and my keto air fryer cookbook, have recently become my best friends. There are some fun things I’ve

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Keto has changed my life, and this journey, though a roller coaster, has been well-worth taking the buns off of my burgers.

No pizza crust? No problem! This pizza’s base is made with some mozzarella, almond flour and egg.

taught myself to do, too, when I’m missing carbs, like coating my fish in crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs to make it crispy.

At restaurants, it’s easy to keto-fy your meal. Ask for your sandwich without bread, your burger without a bun or your tacos without a tortilla. Or, you can always get a salad. The changes in my mental and physical wellbeing came when I stopped making excuses and started trying new things.

Treats are even possible on keto. Since sugar isn’t allowed on the keto diet, us ketonians have to improvise. As a journalist, coffee is my savior. I can drink it black, but sometimes you just need something sweet and luckily there are some “hacks” at Starbucks that allow me to do just that. My typical order is iced coffee with heavy cream, then I add in a couple of pumps of their sugar free syrups like cinnamon dulce or vanilla. Some people do this exact order but instead of coffee they get a flavored tea, which makes for a rich, fruity drink on a hot summer day.

Luckily for me, I’m not the only one on a keto kick. There are plenty of people throughout the 209 who have taken it upon

themselves to not only embrace the Keto lifestyle, but help others attain it as well. Michelle Jones of Modesto started Chells Keto Goodies when she and her husband found success on the Keto diet themselves, losing a combined 90 pounds. Jones is wellknown for her Keto-friendly desserts like cheesecake, cupcakes, pound cake and muffins, proudly proclaiming that her products have all the fun of sweets, but with “no sugar rush.”

“My slogan is ‘no sugar rush’ because I felt like everybody wants sugar, but no one wants the side effects of it. It’s so hard for us to find a good treat that tastes good and isn’t expensive,” Jones said.

Like many who have gone keto, Jones and her husband did so and haven’t looked back after noticing the health benefits.

“My husband was diabetic and had high blood pressure, and just from going keto he’s no longer diabetic and no longer has that high blood pressure,” she said.

“It’s really helped my family, and that’s what makes it even more special to me because I’ve seen success.”

Chells Keto Goodies accepts orders via Facebook and Instagram (@chells.keto.goodies), and 

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To make keto nachos, cut a low-carb tortilla into strips, bake or air fry them into chips and top with whatever ketofriendly toppings you can find!

Eating out doesn’t have to be hard on keto. This cobb salad from Dust Bowl Brewing Co. in Turlock is 100 percent keto friendly.

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fulloflife

This is what my typical grocery haul looks like: meats, cheeses and veggies that are lower in carbs.

The best part about living life keto has been getting dressed up for events. Now, I can find outfits that I feel 100 percent confident in.

when I started following Jones’ sweet treat business on social media, I couldn’t believe how good the desserts looked. Instagram has not only given me the opportunity to find amazing entrepreneurs like Jones who make the keto life easier, but also a community of supportive keto dieters who make the experience more enjoyable.

My keto Instagram account (@ketooosunshine) has allowed me to connect with others who are right in the middle of a journey very similar to mine, and has motivated me to keep a photo journal of all the delicious meals I make, the new clothes I can fit into and even the opportunity to try different keto products I never would have been exposed to before. As I continue to work towards the 137 pounds mark, this community of fellow low-carb, high-fat dieters has become my rock.

There are a lot of people who have opinions about the keto lifestyle, both positive and negative. My opinion? Everyone is entitled to their own. If the keto diet works for someone and they’re experiencing positive results, then live and let live. I get it — eating a diet consisting of mainly protein and fat seems to go against everything we’ve been taught about the food pyramid, but I urge the naysayers to do some research and maybe even try it out. You might be surprised.

Keto has changed my life, and this journey, though a roller coaster, has been wellworth taking the buns off of my burgers. ■

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Starbucks has plenty of options for keto dieters — I saw this sign outside of Safeway in Turlock.

Chells Keto Goodies was started

by Michelle Jones of Modesto, who has found success on the Keto diet.

Pictured is her famous cheesecake.

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placecalledhome

Inspiring

Gardens D

By SABRA STAFFORD

esigning your garden is an ongoing process of ideas that take bloom and some that never really take root. Ideas on what to plant and where and when can be inspired by the gardens of others, which is why events like the recently held Turlock Garden Club’s tour of gardens can be such a worthwhile activity for gardening enthusiasts.

The tour featured six landscapes at five homes around Turlock, all with unique properties and designs. The one characteristic all the gardens shared were that all of them were created by homeowners who wanted to make their spaces truly their own. ■

Jim and Carol Jensen Jim and Carol Jensen have created their ideal yard by mixing art into their landscape, making for a multitude of bright colors. Carol Jensen painted a vibrant mural along the fence making for a brilliant centerpiece.

Robert and Gail Frost Robert and Gail Frost decided two minds were better than one when it came to the backyard of their ranch home and designed a his and hers gardens. Gail Frost used her space to create a cottage-style garden using a method she laughingly described as “plant and run and hope it lives.” The centerpiece of her garden is a boxwood mace with a hummingbird topiary in the center. She created it by allowing boxwood to grow up and around a metal frame of a hummingbird her husband built. The whimsy side of the yard features a bounty of perennial flowers in bloom during spring and summer, established fruit trees, and a playhouse for their granddaughter.

For his side, Robert Frost created a western motif complete with an electric train running over trestles, through tunnels and around the town and station.

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Renae and Sammy Estrada

When Renae and Sammy Estrada moved into their craftsman style home in 2010, they knew they needed to make the backyard kid-friendly for their two young ones. That meant taking out a large pond with connecting streams and about 20 pine trees. They left the slope of the yard, the lush ferns, succulents, flowers and the towering Redwoods, which gives it a feeling of being out in a forest, rather than a backyard. The couple put in a large pavilion or entertaining or just relaxing in the evenings. But if you ask the children, the best feature of the yard is the rustic-themed playhouse.

“We got it used and carried it over in pieces,” said Renae Estrada. “The kids love it.”

John and Michelle Machado Guests to John and Michelle Machado’s modern Mediterranean home are welcomed in by a decorative circular drive surrounded by a lush lawn and plantings in the front yard. The backyard is filled with a variety of trees and shrubs, and a large backyard yurt that offers a place to relax and entertain.

“We get the whole family out there and have a blast,” said Michelle Machado.

Michelle Machado’s absolute pride are her rows and rows of Dahlias, which she began growing about five years ago and now shows.

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placecalledhome

L

ocal interior designer Wendy Glaister had a challenge with this foothills property in San Andreas. Her clients wanted to transform the traditional layout of their beautiful old farmhouse into a more modern layout with increased natural light and room for entertaining — all before the festivities began for their son’s upcoming wedding. ■

FAMILY ROOM The family room is furnished with a custom sized and fitted sofa from Slater’s Home Furnishings, tailored to the exact dimensions required for the couple’s comfort and tastes. Crypton performance fabric was chosen for the upholstery to provide peace of mind to the homeowner — in anticipation of lots of celebrations and parties to honor their son’s upcoming marriage. The room is grounded by a spectacular Nourison area rug from House of Carpets, Carpet One in Modesto. Large area rugs work not only visually, but they absorb the “echoey” sound in large rooms.

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KITCHEN VIEW They put in two new huge picture windows with views of the majestic oak tree just out the kitchen sink window, allowing for streaming sunshine and breezes to infuse the home with a new sense of cheer. Sub Zero and Wolf appliances added the KITCHEN muscle behind the customized space, providing Sharon Jaureguy considers the kitchen the “showroom” of the house. superior It features a number of modern updates — a swing-out pot filler refrigeration and cooking elements for easy entertaining. faucet above the gas range, fandelier providing light and air movement above the kitchen table and ample cabinet space — while the crown molding, original floors (dyed a shade darker) and wavy glass highlights are a nod to its 1930’s past.

BREAKFAST NOOK Glaister and her team took down the wall separating the office and kitchen and changed the old office into a cozy breakfast area with views to the pool beyond through a pair of beautiful new French doors. An understated chandelier from Phillips Lighting and Home gives the space some sparkle, and custom drapery from Pursley’s Window Coverings adds softness to the space.

PHOTOS BY MARK VERSCHELDEN

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marketplace

A new visionfor

downtownn

Los BanosS

By KRISTINA HACKER

M

any know Los Banos either as the Merced County town located between two popular wildlife refuges or as the last Valley stop along Highway 152 on the way to Monterey. But there’s more to Los Banos than just what lies along its highways. The city is undergoing a revitalization of its downtown area and is hoping to draw both residents and passersby to the heart of historic Los Banos.

“We just had our Merced County Spring Fair…a huge parade downtown and I realized that there are people who come downtown for that parade who have never come downtown before. Their lifestyle doesn’t dictate that they come downtown unless it’s for an event like a parade. If we can just get downtown Los Banos up and running with entertainment, activities, then we can promote it and get more people downtown,” said Gene Lieb, publisher of the Los Banos Enterprise and the driving force behind the most recent downtown revitalization effort.

“We need to step up our game, make it look better and bring more people downtown.”

When Lieb came to Los Banos in 2001 to head up its community newspaper, he saw the unrealized potential of the downtown area and tried to garner support for a revitalization effort — but to no avail.

Lieb’s efforts weren’t the first.

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Los Banos Downtown Association Board Chair Thomas Kaljian This private funding is very imremembers when the City of Los Banos hired a firm to do a portant following the dismantling of downtown area study in the 1960s. redevelopment agencies by the state in “It was a nice study, but we didn’t get anywhere,” he said.

2011. Prior to 2011, many public projects Decades later, the City put together a group of people who were funded through RDAs. looked at the downtown area. A few regulations and some “This project, there is no RDA. Everynew benches and streetlights came of that effort, but not thing, everything to this point, that has been much else. happening was through private funding,” said It wasn’t until 2017, when Lieb decided to call in expert Silva. assistance from Sharon Silva, who spearheaded the camHowever, one-time monetary gifts won’t be paign to revitalize Turlock’s downtown area in the late enough to sustain the downtown revitalization 1990s and early 2000s as part of the Turlock Downtown efforts. Silva proposed that Los Banos create a Association, that true progress started being made Property and Business Improvement District (PBID) on the project.

— a special benefit district where services are financed Under a newly motivated Los Banos Downby a self-imposed tax on property. town Association Board of Directors, Silva got Since September 2018, the City of Los Banos has been to work rallying support for the downtown actively working with the downtown association and in revitalization and soon after local developer April 2019, the City Council voted to move forward on Greg Hostetler pledged $1 million in matchputting together a PBID. ing funds to support the project.

“The City sees it as a partnership. It’s been tried many Those funds have already been put to times, either the City by itself or the property owners by good use as part of the Downtown Façade themselves. I think this is the first time that we’ve had a partProgram, with nine businesses taking nership. I see as a three-sided partnership, like a stool with three advantage of the matching funds to imlegs. We have the private property owners, we have the downprove their buildings. town association, which is an organization that represents  209MAGAZINE.COM

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marketplace

the downtown property owners and merchants, and we have the City. With that partnership, I think we’re just really in a position right now — the timing is perfect — for us to be able to put this together,” said Los Banos Community & Economic Development Director Stacy Souza Elms.

Souza Elms said that since Silva has joined the downtown association’s efforts, there is a new energy for the project.

“Folks are believing in the revitalization. You can see it now because the Façade Improvement Program is happening and you can see buildings being fixed up,” she said.

A vote is expected on the PBID sometime in July. A majority vote is needed by the downtown property owners — with votes weighted by ownership of downtown square footage — for the special district to go through. If approved, the funds collected through the PBID will pay for a downtown executive director, as well as security, lighting and graffiti abatement.

“Even without the redevelopment funding, I think that this has sort of unfolded the way that it’s needed to in the sense that it’s been a real grassroots movement. It’s required neighbors to get to know neighbors and go out and talk to other people and get them on board and get them excited about revitalizing downtown Los Banos,” said Los Banos Downtown Association Board member Taylor Wolfsen.

Longtime Sixth (Main) Street business owner Penny Glick said that she’s looking forward to making progress on the downtown revitalization project.

“Thousands of people drive by (on Highway 152) every day.

How do we get them to come downtown?” commented Glick.

She would like to see more eateries come downtown and even a few new gift shops like her own The Country Duck to entice shoppers to stay downtown.

Larry Hernandez, who represents the Los Banos Odd Fellows Lodge that owns the large building at 928 Sixth St., is also excited about the

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possibilities the revitalization could bring to downtown.

“The downtown needs a lot of help… It’s a gem and it needs to really shine,” he said.

Silva and the downtown association plan to continue working towards their ultimate goal of a downtown area that is once again truly the heart of the community.

“Some of us have proscribed to a bigger picture where if you’re not investing in downtown then what’s happening to downtown?” said Wolfsen.

“My theory is never one person builds anything, it’s always a team,” said Silva.

“It’s been a real privilege for me to have this opportunity, and at this time…It always takes somebody to step forward and then it takes your team of people who are going to back that and that’s exactly what’s happened here in Los Banos.” ■

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