209 Magazine - Issue 45

a place to ride

By JASON CAMPBELL

I

t’s been a long year for Jon Anderson.

On one hand, as the owner of Anderson’s Mower and Bike in Manteca Jon Anderson has done more business during the pandemic than at any other time during the store’s 46-year run – spurred, no doubt, by people looking for something fun and safe to do during the quarantine period and the resurgence of bicycling as an acceptable activity for young people.

On the other hand, he’s been largely without one of the things that has been a focal point of his life since he first discovered it in the mid1970’s – racing.

Because BMX racing draws crowds of onlookers – families watching their children participate in the family-friendly sport – there was no formal organized racing at the track that he helped get built in a storm basin on the corner of Spreckels Drive and Moffat Boulevard in Manteca.

It’s a track that took nearly a decade to see come to fruition, and while it seemed like the closure would go on forever, the fact that people are getting the chance to get back out on the track once again has given Anderson a renewed sense of hope – and solidified his dedication to keeping the sport that be loves, BMX, alive and well in the Central

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Valley.

“One of the things that we’re proud of is that it’s open to the public and it’s a city park – it’s something that everybody can come down and use,” Anderson said. “It’s one of those things where you just have to turn it over to the public and let them do what it is that they want with it. With everything that is going on in the world right now, it’s really something that’s unique and hopefully it’s something that’s around for a long time.”

The idea for the park came around 1999 when it was announced that the BMX Track at Rainbow Fields in Riverbank would be closing up shop permanently, and rather than being forced to drive more than an hour to ride, Anderson approached Willie Weatherford about the possibility of installing a track at a local city park.

While the wheels of government turn slow, Anderson was able to make Weatherford a believer – and gain the support of other elected officials like Jack Snyder and Vince Hernandez. It wouldn’t be until local developer Mike Atherton got on board that the wheels really started turning.

It was Atherton’s generosity in selling the parcel of land that the track now sits on to the City of Manteca for only $1 that opened the door to the Manteca BMX Track,

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Anderson helps a newcomer line up at the starting gate as part of a beginner’s clinic that he helps operate monthly.

PHOTO BY DAVE CAMPBELL/ 209 Magazine

but it would take even more work on the part of Anderson to get to the point that it was suitable and ready for racing.

“It took a while for us to get through all of the hoops needed once the track was built because of the insurance that was needed,” Anderson said. “It ended up taking more than a year, but we were finally able to get everything in order and open it up to the public.”

And it hasn’t been all smooth sailing in the more than a decade that the park has been open to the public and the wider, close-knit BMX community.

For one thing, the track sits in a storm basin – meaning that when heavy rains come, most of the track ends up under three feet of water.

The recent renovations completed at the track have made it withstand the elements a little bit better, but the massive quantities of water that pour into the basin mean that there is more work that needs to be done each and every time mother nature decides to throw a wrench into the equation.

And then there are the thieves.

There were dozens of bikes that were kept on-site to host beginners’ clinics and give young people the chance to learn about BMX, but thieves that broke into the on-site container made off with more than

a few of them – as well as the customized starting system needed for actual BMX competition.

The box is now alarmed and notifies Anderson anytime that somebody tries to gain access, and more than once he’s made it down there to the track before those that had attempted to steal got away with what they came for.

“That time, which was on 4th of July, they probably made off with around $8,000 to $10,000 worth of our stuff,” Anderson said. “It’s an ongoing battle – them cutting the gate and getting down inside to try and get what is locked up – so when I see them out there trying to set up camp, I get rid of them as soon as I possibly can.”

But when it’s a labor of love, as BMX and cycling has become for Anderson, there isn’t much that can take away the pure love of the sport – especially when it has been in his blood for almost 50 years.

It was with his father, known affectionately as “Andy,” that Anderson first got a taste of BMX by traveling around to races at King’s BMX in Modesto and Delta Raceway in Stockton around 1975 – in the infancy of a sport that decades later would gain mainstream acceptance and be added to the slate of new additions to the Summer Olympics.

And while his days of riding

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competitively at that level were long behind him, Anderson still got a chance to be a part of the history of the sport when it came to the Olympics – even if it was in an unconventional way.

According to Anderson’s wife Cathy – who he credits for helping see the longstanding goal of having a track in Manteca through to where it is today – the first Olympic BMX gold medalist, Latvia’s Maris Strombergs, won using a sprocket manufactured by Lathrop-based Snap BMX, which is owned by Anderson and his business partner.

“One of the things that we’re proud of is that it’s open to the public and it’s a city park – it’s something that everybody can come down and use.”

—Jon Anderson

While he would love for the exposure that the Olympics have given BMX to generate an entirely new generation of riders who aspire to reach those same heights, he would also be happy with more kids just enjoying all that there is for BMX to offer – even if that never means reaching the competitive level.

“I just want to see young people develop a passion for cycling,” Anderson said. “It doesn’t matter where it comes from – it’s just a matter of getting there to that point.” ●

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flavors

Lift your spirits at

PHOTOS BY VIRGINIA STILL/ 209 Magazine

Ralston’s Goat

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By VIRGINIA STILL

F

or the past five years, guests have been enjoying refreshing spirits and tasty fare at Ralston’s Goat on the corner of 10th and J streets in downtown Modesto.

Not only have they brought guests live entertainment, but also a variety of libations from the classics like a Manhattan or martini to the trendy mules like a Cucumber Lime Mule and everything in between.

Owner Mike Shelton named his establishment after both William Ralston – a San Francisco business tycoon who was the founder of the Bank of California – and a slogan that was chosen by the people: “Nobody’s Got Modesto’s Goat” as part of a contest.

Since the opening of the restaurant and bar and survival of COVID, Ralston’s Goat made some changes internally with a wall separating the bar and the restaurant making them almost two separate entities. They have an outdoor patio area with about 18 tables and an area for musicians to entertain patrons. The full bar is fully open inside and out and is also known as the Goat Bar. Bartender Jenn Allsup has been at Ralston’s for over four years where she started by offering customers her very special creation of a Bloody Mary at the brunch on Sundays.

“I have been making them for 17 years,” explained Allsup. “I make them from scratch. I originally started on the restaurant side. There was a little coffee bar over there and I was doing Bloody Mary’s. Eventually I just got more and more hours and then I was here five days a week.”

Allsup’s Bloody Mary is a customer favorite, especially during brunch on the weekends. The specialty cocktail is made from scratch with fresh herbs and spices and is served up with skewers that may include veggies, cheese, salami and bacon.

“It (Bloody Mary) is really popular,” said Allsup. “We do anywhere between 30 to 40 a day of the Bloody Mary’s. I have to make a big batch

to make sure it goes throughout the day.”

The origin of the cocktail stemmed from a time that Allsup was serving them up at the day bar at Burning Man. After working with it and tweaking it, she finally came up with just the right mixture that was a real crowd pleaser.

Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and then the dinner menu starts at 5 p.m., running to 10 p.m., with appetizers served up in between.

They are open from Wednesday through Sunday and offer takeout and catering services as well.

During the summer months the 10th Street Plaza will definitely be thriving in the 209. The entertainment begins on Wednesdays at Ralston’s Goat with the Valley Music Institute that brings a variety of youth bands to play live for guests. On Thursdays a jazz band has a jam session and on Fridays they have a live band from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Saturdays will feature a house DJ from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a live band in the evening. The music wraps on Sundays with entertainment during brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“We also host a lot of touring bands when they come through,” stated Allsup. “My husband and I have been involved with the music in downtown for 30 years so we know a lot of outside entities for music. So, we always get touring bands coming through here.”

For those hot summer days in downtown Modesto there is a Rodin Ranch specialty cocktail and the very popular Rodin Ranch Shooters that are served up with a local fresh squeezed seasonal juice blend like pineapple, fruit medley, watermelon, strawberry, or mango. They are made with New Amsterdam or Svedka Vodka, a little bit of lime juice or lemon juice, sweet and sour to taste and fresh fruit from Rodin Ranch right across the street that they get every morning. ●

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IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: RALSTONS’ GOAT 1001 10th St Modesto, CA 95354 CONTACT: (209) 549-9413 HOURS: Wednesday - Friday, 4 pm to 12 am Saturday 10 am to 12 am Sunday 10 am to 5 pm Monday & Tuesday CLOSED

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flavors

By KRISTINA HACKER

T

he Sobon family has been making wine in Amador County since 1977 and the tradition continues with one of the few family-owned and operated vineyards in the area under both Shenandoah Vineyards and Sobon Estate labels. They have approximately 240 acres of grapes around Amador County that they farm sustainably and then use for wines that they bottle at their estates. ●

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Sobon Estate Rezerve 2018 Amador County Petite Sirah This wine is fruity and rich with a deep dark color. It pairs well with filet mignon, truffle bread and duck breast.

Shenandoah Vineyards 2019 Amador County Zingiovese Red Wine This vineyard specialty features flavors of plums, berries and mellow cedar. It pairs well with wild game, salmon and grilled meats.

IF YOU GO SHENANDOAH VINEYARDS 12300 Steiner Rd., Plymouth

Shenandoah Vineyards Rezerve Amador County 2019 Paul’s Zinfandel This versatile zinfandel has flavors of plum, blackberry and cocoa. It pairs well with beef ribs, lamb or smoked meats.

Tasting room open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Call for reservations: 209-245-4455 Shenandoahvineyards. com SOBON ESTATE 14430 Shenandoah Rd., Plymouth Tasting room open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday Call for reservations: 209-245-4455

Shenandoah Vineyards Rezerve 2018 California Chardonnay This Chardonnay has smooth flavors of butterscotch, vanilla and pear. It pairs well with soft cheeses, prawns, risotto and crab.

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5/26/2021 8:28:26 AM

navigator

Tubing

By CLAUDIA NEWCORN

I

n a little-visited northeastern corner of California, just south of the Oregon border, you can go cavetubing. Not in the sense of riding an inner tube in a cave river, but rather exploring an extraordinary collection of caves created by lava tubes from basaltic lava that flowed across the landscape over 10,000 years ago.

Hollow hills Lava Beds National Monument lies on the slope of the enormous Medicine Lake shield volcano that sprawls across a landscape peppered with volcanic cinder cones, chimneys and spatter cones – and miles of lava tubes. It occupies only a small portion of the volcano, encompassing over 70

square miles. At 5,200 feet, it’s high desert, although at one time it flanked the ancient Tule Lake, and was home to the Modoc Indian tribe.

To visualize the formation of these lava tubes, think of the lava you have seen flowing in Hawaii on its journey into the sea. As the exterior of the lava encounters the air, it hardens, but the fiery hot liquid lava continues to advance within. When the lava no longer flows, left behind are long tubes – or caves.

Over the millennia, tubes formed on top of other tubes, creating a labyrinth. The actual number of caves is unknown, but estimates range from 200-400. Of these, over 30 are open to the public for exploration.

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Caves of many uses For centuries, the Modocs used many of the caves as campsites and sacred sites. Prehistoric tribes also used the caves and ancient petroglyphs dot some of the walls.

In 1888, Tom Durham made the first known historic account of what would become Bearpaw Cave. However, the discovery of the cave system is credited to J.D. Howard. He came to the Klamath region in 1916, and for over 20 years explored and opened up many of the caves.

Set aside as a national monument in 1925, in 1933 Lava Beds was transferred to the National Park Service.

As tourists began to visit, and with the Great Depression in full swing,

Federal Work relief projects with the Civilian Conservation Corps were implemented to improve the caves and make them more accessible, without damaging their natural features.

Helmets advised Your first stop should be the Visitors Center. Here you can watch an excellent overview of the formation of the caves and the area’s history. You can also register which cave(s) you will be hiking, and get the all- important maps.

Mushpot Cave is the easiest cave to visit, particularly if you’re not keen on caves, and is often used for interpretive presentations. Softly lit, you have the opportunity to see the layers of

Lava Beds is truly a unique adventure, a remindear of the West Coast’s explosive volcanic past.

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tubes through roof gaps, and myriad types of lava formations. Look for lavacicles (lava icicles) and cauliflower lava clumps. Walking the pathway, you’ll pass remnants of a moonshine still. The path ends to leave you gazing into the dark bowels of the cave.

Note that with the exception of Mushpot, none of the caves are lit, and you are advised to borrow helmets at the Visitors Center – known as “bump hats” – and powerful flashlights to enable you to explore the many caves situated right there at Cave Loop.

Rangers also recommend you wear long sleeves, pants, and close-toed shoes or boots. The climate inside the caves is often cool and damp, and rough lava protrusions can make for

navigator

some bumpy going.

The caves range from easy to extremely challenging with crawling and scrambling. Some are just a few hundred feet long, such as Skull and Heppe; others are extensive, such as the nearly 7,000-foot Catacombs or the 2,200-foot Golden Dome, Hercules and Juniper caves. At the Visitors Center, pick up a cheat sheet which will allow you to select the caves best suited to your interests and stamina.

Otherworldly As you step into the twilight zone where daylight fades, there’s a sense of disorientation and depth perception adjustment. As I edged my way into Skull Cave, eerie is the word. The further I moved into the darkness – the flashlight makes you feel a bit like a firefly in the thick darkness – I found myself wondering what would I do if my light failed? And I understood why the Rangers recommend bringing a back-up flashlight.

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Some caves are reached by hiking across rocky terrain among scrubby juniper trees. You will pass roof collapses or see swells and ridges hinting at other tubes. Except for an occasional bird and the hiss of wind across sand, you feel as if you were on a forgotten piece of our planet. Lava Beds is truly a unique adventure, a reminder of the West Coast’s explosive volcanic past. Note that some caves may be periodically closed – it’s wise to check current info at bit.ly/LAVAbeds. ●

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to report mosquitoes or for more information.

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e put 16 of the area’s best burger joints head-to-head in a showdown and asked or readers to vote for their favorites. While we have four finalists — and one honorable mention by reader demand — we at 209 Magazine encourage you to get out this summer and try as many local burgers as possible on your travels and share with us your favorites @209magazine.

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feature Location: 940 11th S., Modesto Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday Contact: 209-572-2341 – barkindoggrill.com

Barkin’ Dog Grill

Favorite burgers: Avocado Bacon Cheese Burger featuring crisp bacon, avocado, melted American cheese, mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion and organic dry aged beef patty; and the Gorgonzola Bleu featuring warm Gorgonzola bleu cheese, grilled onions, provolone, lettuce, tomato, chipotle mayo and organic dry aged beef patty.

Secret to success: If organic beef that is dry aged sounds like it would make one of the best burgers in the 209 then you would be correct. The Barkin’ Dog Grill is known for their burgers and owner Hanibal Yadegar is proud to bring customers a simple and tasty menu with quality ingredients and the best burger in the 209.

Bringing a simple menu to downtown Modesto was their plan all along but the quality of the food had to be top notch and only the very best.

“The idea was to have a simple menu but concentrate on quality ingredients,” explained Yadegar. “Our beef…is all organic and dry aged. Produce is all local. We make everything here, our chili is homemade and our homemade soups are made daily.”

The burgers are made with all natural beef with no hormones or antibiotics and are dry aged to perfection, which makes this burger joint stand out from the rest.

—Virginia Still/ 209 Magazine

209 Burger

Gillman’s Classic Drive-In

Location: 763 W. F St., Oakdale Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday Contact: 209-847-0619

Favorite burger: Fatboy that features two ¼ pound 100% ground London broil steak patties, four slices of American cheese, mustard, relish, chopped onions, ketchup, lettuce and mayo.

Secret to success: Gillman’s owner Jennifer DeGraff said she loves what she does and that job satisfaction can be tasted in every burger she makes at the classic drivein she’s owned for the past six years.

Gillman’s was the second oldest restaurant in Oakdale and DeGraff pays tribute to the drive-in’s history by keeping the menu — and most of the building — exactly the same as it was since it originally opened in 1955.

“People come to me and say ‘I carved my name in this bench in 1965,’” said DeGraff.

Along with tradition, another secret to Gillman’s success is how DeGraff sources all her meat and produce locally — literally from across the street at the El Toro Market.

“We’ve tried to preserve as much as we possibly could and keep the food quality high,” said DeGraff.

In fact, DeGraff makes sure to eat a piece of a burger every single day to make sure the quality is consistent, she said.

DeGraff and her staff ’s hard work has paid off as Gillman’s remains a local hangout for high schoolers to the older crowd and draws tourists from around the world who make the trek to Oakdale every year to grab a burger on their way to Yosemite.

— Kristina Hacker/209 Magazine 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Location: 2261 Jackson Ave., Escalon Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday Contact: 209-838-7775

Hula’s Favorite burger: The Big Kahuna that features a 1/3-pound ground chuck patty, lettuce, tomato, avocado, bacon, jalapenos and jack cheese.

Secret to success: Hula’s owner Tony Victorino said he built the business up with “the burgers fresh and with generous portions.”

While known for their all-day breakfast to thousands of travelers along Hwy. 120 on their way to Yosemite, Hula’s also bears the moniker of ‘The Best Burgers in the Valley’ with 23 different burgers to choose from.

The Hawaii-themed drive-in, which has been operating in Escalon since the 1970s under different names, also pays tribute to local and professional sports teams. As a nod to locals, the menu features an Escalon Burger with cheese, grilled mushrooms and onions and a Cowboy Burger with bacon, a sweet red onion ring and BBQ sauce.

Every order is custom-made, said Victorino, helping to ensure the best quality possible. Hula’s is also popular with those traveling with their canine friends as it has a pet-friendly patio.

— Kristina Hacker/209 Magazine

Showdown

Sno-White Drive-In

Location: 3442 Atchinson St., Riverbank Hours: 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday Contact: snowhiteriverbankca.com – 209-869-6833

Favorite burgers: Knock burgers come with all the veggies, avocado, jalapenos and bacon and can be purchased as a single knock, double knock, or triple knock. Rodeo-themed burgers — cowgirl, cowboy or the bull burgers — feature BBQ sauce, onion rings and bacon.

Secret to success: The fresh, made-to-order juicy burgers come in a variety of options from the classic cheeseburger, to the Knock or Western burgers that are made just how you want it. They have a variety of cheeses and toppings.

“All the burgers are great,” said Robert Riedinger, who operates the drive-in with his uncle, Daryl Daniel. “I like seeing the reactions and knowing everything is good. We make it fresh for them so every burger is personal. No one can beat a good American burger. I love to see the reaction after they eat and they come up to the window and thank us and say that was really good.”

This is a traditional drive-in with a simple menu that requires guests to park, get out of the car and order at the window. That is why it is called a drive-in and not a drive thru. There are outside tables where patrons can enjoy their tasty burgers or they can take their food to go. Daniel noted that many customers during the pandemic would drop their tailgate on their trucks and dine right there.

Sno-White Drive-In has been in Riverbank since the 1960s with original owner Ron Daniel that then passed the torch to his son Daryl Daniel, who has owned it since 1993.

— Virginia Still/209 Magazine 209MAGAZINE.COM

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feature

The Village Butcher

Location: 1700 McHenry Ave. #65, Modesto Hours: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday;

HONORABLE MENTION

Favorite burger: Dry-aged burger that features a Wagyu beef patty, bacon cured at the shop, homemade pickles, Fiscalini cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, Dijon mustard and served on a Brioche bun.

Secret to success: The Village Butcher owner Matt Soderstrom said he was initially hesitant to add a burger to the menu.

“I know how easy it is to make an okay burger, but that’s not what I wanted,” Soderstrom said. “One day we had some extra ground beef so I decided to do a burger special. Then people kept asking for it, so I thought maybe we’re on to something here.”

The Village Butcher uses Wagyu beef that has a genetic trait for marbling. It’s dryaged, which Soderstrom says helps “consolidate the flavor.”

“To make the best burger that is juicy and full of flavor, it all starts with the meat,” Soderstrom said. “It has a good balance because we pay a lot of attention to the details. When people bite into our burger, we want them to taste the beef and have everything else compliment it.”

Soderstrom got into the meat business after realizing his hobby of smoking meats was where his heart was at and not in his sales job.

— Sabra Stafford/209 Magazine

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Contact: thevillagebutcher209.com – 209-841-0109

Editor’s note: Ok 209 Magazine readers, we heard you loud and clear. You all thought The Village Butcher should have been included in our 209 Burger Showdown brackets.

We decided we needed to check it out and you all were right - that’s a good burger.

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209-847-0619 763 W. F Street,Drive-In Oakdale, CA 95361 Gillman’s Classic Classic Drive-In Mon. - Fri. 10:30 - 7 pm 763 W.Gillman’s F ST., OAKDALE, CA. 95361 (209)am 847-0619

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5/26/2021 12:33:16 PM

arts&culture

By SABRA STAFFORD

L

et’s face it, sometimes here in the 209 style can take a backseat when the temperatures start to rise. It’s all about staying cool, and not in the fashionable way.

Luckily, mom and daughter Sue Oneto and Brandi Oneto own a duo of boutiques in Amador County that have plenty of outfit choices that will leave you feeling stylish without breaking a sweat.

Sue is the owner of Sue’s Shoppe in Jackson, which marked the 49th year in business in May. “I’ve always loved fashion and still do,” Sue said. “Owning my own store is a dream that I didn’t think would ever come true.”

When Brandi opened up her own shop, Brown Eyed Girl Clothing in Sutter Creek, it was a chance for the mother and daughter to share their joy of fashion and do some collaboration.

“She has a younger eye and I know tried and true,” Sue said. “The good taste is something we both share.”

Both stores offer clothing options ranging from classic styles to contemporary trends.

“We both cater to all ages and have clothes that you can wear day in and day out or for something special,” Brandi said. “Even though we do our buying together, you can still see both our individual personalities in our stores.”

Their shared fashion sense is not the only thing this mother and daughter duo share when it comes to business.

“I grew up in her store, so everything I have learned about customer service and work ethic came from watching her,” Brandi said.

Sue’s Shoppe is located at 154 Main Street in Jackson and is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. The store’s phone number is (209) 223-2112.

Brown Eyed Girl Clothing is located at 40 Main Street in Sutter Creek and is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday. The store’s phone number is (209) 267-8025. ● 209MAGAZINE.COM

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ruse Lucas Art Gallery is hosting a Graffiti Car Art Show to celebrate the return to the Graffiti Parade and Car Show in Modesto.

The exhibit will feature the art works of regional artists Carolyn Huff, Rhett Regina Owings and Tony Pooler. The three artists

each work in different mediums from digital art, oils to watercolor. The show will be on exhibit June, July and August.

Kruse Lucas Art Gallery is located at 525 Tully Rd., Modesto. It is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, except holidays. ●

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Editor’s note: The Graffiti Festival, usually held in June every year, was postponed due to COVID-19 until Aug. 20-22.

For more information on the car shows, parade and festival for the 2021 American Graffiti, look in the August/September issue of 209 Magazine.

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arts&culture

Journey Revisited brings fans a tribute concert experience

By VIRGINIA STILL

PHOTOS BY FRANKIE JAMES

T

he local music scene is definitely alive and, after a year like 2020, is clearly raring to go.

Journey Revisited is a Journey tribute band that focuses on the Steve Perry and Gregg Rolie era with members from right here in the 209.

The band consists of Frank House on lead vocals, Kevin Jachetta on keyboards and vocals, Val Popovic on guitar, Dave Sousa on bass and David Hawkes on drums. The band was established in 2011 and House joined the band in 2017.

“All of these band members have toured internationally and have been with big named acts that have seen a lot of success but we all have the love of Journey’s music in common,” said House. “These are not only great musicians but also good people and also my

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friends.”

The band has booked over 30 shows each year with the exception of last year where they had a total of 10 due to the pandemic. They have performed shows throughout the 209 and beyond, bringing their passion and love for Journey to audiences all over.

“For me personally it is a dream come true,” stated House. “We have enjoyed a lot of success.

The chemistry just seems to work between everybody. We are seasoned musicians which makes a big difference in making a band work. We have all pretty much experienced a well-rounded musical career. We have been in cover bands, original bands, tribute bands; this band here, we do everything. We consider ourselves a tribute concert show.”

Prior to joining Journey Revisited, House formed a different Journey tribute band in the Sacramento area. Not only is he a singer but he is also a songwriter.

He said the other band members have other musical talents as well and have had other musical endeavors. Jachetta not only is a keyboardist but he is a voice over artist and a practical joker. Sousa is also a practical joker in the band that keeps the guys entertained.

House noted, “When you are on the road for an extended period of time you really appreciate their humor and the way that they can break us away from the monotony of being on the road or doing multiple shows in a row. So yes, it is very refreshing.”

Some of the members of the band have regular day jobs. Hawkes teaches drums and plays in another

All of these band members have toured internationally and have been with big named acts that have seen a lot of success but we all have the love of Journey’s music in common.

— Frank House

tribute band and other members perform in cover bands.

Through the years they have performed in Texas, Oregon, Nevada, Washington, and of course California. They have played at all kinds of venues from small bars, fairs, to festivals and theaters both indoors and out.

“Preparation of course would include song studies, some rehearsals, also, I think more importantly for what we do as a tribute band would include really

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getting into character,” explained House on preparing for a show.

“I call it musical theater and so does Val. You are transforming, you are getting into costume, you are putting on makeup and you are becoming something that the audience wants to experience. So that is what we do. We give them what they want.”

The band focuses on bringing the original Journey sound to audiences in the original keys.

“We do everything without the aid of backing vocal tracks,” added House. “We don’t use any of that.

We don’t use any backing musical tracks. Everything is real, raw and organic.”

For many entertainers and artists, performing live has been a struggle through COVID with some doing shows virtually which is difficult for those that really enjoy the human contact and audience engagement.

However, the drive-in movement has allowed musicians to entertain with a live performance while guests remain in their vehicles and adhere to COVID restrictions.

“COVID has been tough,” expressed House. “That (drive-in shows) kind of saved the day and I really think that we were on the cusp of history with drive-in shows because that was a brand-new thing. We played one of the first shows at the Alameda County Fair which was a drive-in show and it was a huge success. I see those continuing in the foreseeable future for sure.”

There have been several highlights performing in the tribute band for House including the travel and most importantly the people.

He shared that a memorable mo-

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ment was a show they played in San Mateo to crowd of about 9,000.

“I would say the human element makes it the most enjoyable thing,” remarked House. “I can’t imagine doing anything else in this life. We have all had different jobs but this is our passion. It is wonderful. I guess we are doing something right.”

With the state opening back up, Journey Revisited has already secured some dates in the 209 to perform live.

“Especially now people are hungry for music, they are hungry to get out and they are hungry for that escape,” said House. “I see that on the horizon. I am very optimistic.”

Journey Revisited will be performing in the 209 at Windmill Cove Bar & Grill in Stockton on June 13 right on the Delta, which House says is always a party.

They will hit the Waterfront Amphitheater on Aug. 14, performing at the Fiesta en el Calle Summer Concert Series in Stockton.

On Sept. 18, they will be at Lucca Winery Summer Concert Series in Ripon.

They have all social media platforms including Facebook as Journey Revisited band and a website journeyrevisited.net for more information. ●

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By SABRA STAFFORD

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(MIWOK 1) WWII Ione Miwok Mothers Red Cross volunteers.

(MIWOK 2) WWII Miwok veteran Nicolas Villa.

(MIWOK 3) WWI Miwok veteran Riley Aleck. Photo was taken on June 6, 1918 in Cape May, New Jersey.

(MIWOK 4) WWII Miwok veteran Carl Moman.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE AMADOR ARTS COUNCIL

he Miwok Heritage Center in partnership with the Amador County Arts Council has opened a new exhibit spotlighting the contributions of Miwoks in the different wars through history.

The Miwok Patriots Art Show invites people to learn about the role Miwok people played in the war efforts in history. This exhibit includes pictures and information about the Miwok people and patriotic acts in which they participated.

“Little is known of these acts or that, in many instances, they were not citizens of the countries that they represented in these skirmishes,” said MHC Executive Director Glen Villa Jr. “Miwok people were proud of their participation and were happy to serve.”

The exhibit is drawn from the personal collections from people in the region and include letters, photographs, medals, uniforms and other mementos from Miwok individuals that fought in various wars.

“This exhibit honors a lot of different families in this area,” Villa said. “I was somewhat surprised at how many Miwoks have served. I think that is something to be proud of and it gives a different perspective on the connection between the Miwoks and the United States.”

One of the oldest items in the collection tells the story of Valentin Guelaccina.

Born in 1811 he was a Mokelumne baptized at the Mission San Jose in 1834 and fought in the Mexican-American war.

The show opened at the MHC on May 24 and will continue through July 4. A public reception will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. June 26.

The Miwok Heritage Center was founded to preserve, promote and interpret the history and culture of the Miwok people.

It is located at 901 Quail Ct. in Ione. ●

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arts&culture

The Sirens of Summer

By SABRA STAFFORD

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amp Tuolumne Trails, the campground established in Groveland for individuals with special medical needs, has a new asset that both the campers and the community will be able to enjoy.

The camp has a new 200-seat amphitheater that will debut with The Sirens

of Summer music series.

Located on 80 acres surrounded by the mountains and woodlands, Camp Tuolumne Trails gives people a chance to delve into the camp experience by adapting it all to fit their needs. It was during one of those adaptations that the idea for an amphitheater was born.

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“Where we were going to put the parking lot, it had too much of a grade and we had to fill it in with dirt,” said camp founder Jerry Baker. “By the time we had finished taking dirt from one area, I looked at it and thought that would make a great amphitheater. It was serendipity.”

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Aubrey Logan

Sara Niemietz

Rebecca Jade The project would take time to complete and it would not have been done without the donations and work of volunteers.

“Every time I was out there working on it, I would look up and there would be a volunteer working next to me,” Baker said.

The amphitheater will be used by the campers for programs and talent shows and will be used for concerts when camp is not in session.

The Sirens of Summer music series will feature three concerts from three women jazz performers.

The first show will be from Aubrey Logan on June 5. Logan is a contemporary jazz performer, who excels as a trombonist, a singer and a songwriter.

In 2009, Logan won the Audience’s Choice Award and the Jury’s First Place Award at the Shure-Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, and she was an American Idol contestant who won a golden ticket.

The second show will see Sara Niemietz take the stage on July 17.

Niemietz is a singer, songwriter and guitarist who has performed on Broadway, at Radio City Music Hall, and the 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Grand Ole Opry.

The final performance of the series will be Rebecca Jade on Aug. 7. Jade is a singer and songwriter who recently appeared in the Emmy-nominated show, “Let’s Go Crazy: The GRAMMY Salute to Prince.” She also sang background vocals for Sir Elton John at the 2020 Academy Awards.

“All three are just spectacular performers,” Baker said. “This summer is going to be all about jazz.”

Tickets for any of the shows can be purchased by visiting http://www.tuolumnetrails.org/sirens-of-summer/. ●

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thegreatoutdoors

No one has to prove anything to have a good time on the rock.

A climber tops Ancient Art’s corkscrew summit near Moab, Utah.

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CLIMB ON

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athedral Peak thrilled us. We ascended 650 feet up the granite gem in Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows as the godly views improved by the minute. My first big rock climb has always stuck with me, including the last 50 feet where I got stuck.

My partner already reached the summit and I had to follow up a vertical crack in the rock. How to do that, I had no clue.

There were no handholds or footholds like I had used before. Finally, I realized I had to step into the crack, which looked painful. So it was, but I did it anyway.

At the summit, an even grander view of the mountainous horizon rewarded my buddy and me. The challenges we overcame to see it made the victory especially sweet. That joyful moment made me a lifelong climber.

At least that’s the plan. Though I recently turned 50, I still enjoy outdoor pursuits, and I’m sharing 50 lessons I learned along the way. This column, the third of five, focuses on rock climbing.

1. Safety first. Secure your harness

50 LESSONS IN 50 YEARS PART THREE

properly. Check your partner’s knot and your own. Wear a helmet. These simple measures go a long way toward ensuring safety. Yet climbers who fail to do them suffer injuries and fatalities every year.

Even Lynn Hill failed to complete her knot once, resulting in a nasty fall. Observe safety measures and insist that your partner does the same. Exercise utmost caution when rappelling; most accidents occur during this descent technique.

2. Use indoor gyms to climb more and better. Nothing beats the beauty and enjoyment of climbing outdoors in places like Yosemite and Joshua Tree, but indoor gyms allow year-round and nighttime activity. Those of us with jobs appreciate the obvious benefits of this. In addition, gyms offer beginner classes and potential part-

Yosemite’s Cathedral Peak boasts both moderate climbing and spectacular scenery.

Eichorn Pinnacle, steep and picturesque, requires just a single pitch of 5.4 climbing.

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By MATT JOHANSON

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ners, including those with experience and gear which novices lack.

So even if outdoor climbing fills your dreams, indoor climbing can help you achieve them. This depends on improved pandemic conditions, of course.

3. Pick a good partner. I usually climb with people I know well and trust, like friends or relatives. But it’s also good to climb with new people who can help you improve and discover new destinations. When I climbed the East Buttress of El Capitan (the easiest route on The Captain but a highlight climb for me), I benefited greatly from pairing up with a partner I met in Camp 4.

I’ve had only good experiences when I’ve “dated” partners I met online.

4. “Five fun” is the best ability level. Climbing doesn’t have to be overly difficult to enjoy. I got started in Yosemite on moderate classics like Snake Dike, Nutcracker and Bishop’s Terrace, which fall between 5.6 and 5.8 in difficulty. I’ve achieved 5.10 on occasion, but I still enjoy moderate climbs the most, like The Eye and Double Cross in Joshua Tree and Corrugation Corner in Lovers Leap. Let Alex Honnold handle the cutting edge. No one has to prove anything to have a good time on the rock.

5. For those who don’t climb every day, don’t fret. General fitness will help you enjoy climbing when you can go. Running, cycling and other forms of aerobic exercise will keep you trim, which definitely helps. Upper body muscle helps too, of course.

Pull ups are the simplest way to

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thegreatoutdoors

improve your ability.

6. Time your outings to avoid crowds.

Climbing has grown much more popular over the years. Showing up to a popular crag at noon on a Saturday will probably lead to a long wait to climb. Try to go midweek or in the shoulder seasons. If you have to go on prime days, arrive early.

7. If you think climbing delivers an adrenaline rush, try leading. That means taking the sharp end of the rope, as we say, and climbing above established protection, placing gear as you go. A leader assumes far greater risk of a significant fall and more responsibility for the success of the climb than the follower or second climber. Not everyone is suited for this, and one should follow many outdoor climbs first. But when you’re ready, leading a challenging route successfully can make you feel like a climbing rock star. If you feel motivated to try, then do your homework. Take a class, read a book or learn from an experienced partner about placing protection and building anchors.

8. Buy good gear, even though it’s expensive. Cams, which are reusable springloaded protection devices, cost up to $100 each and a leader might need a dozen of them or more to protect a single pitch. They are worth every cent when you’re run out high above your anchor and need to jam one into a crack quickly. Don’t cheap out on the rope, either. Get one 60 meters long, not 50 meters, as many climbs need the extra length between anchors.

9. If you lead and protect a climb well, then accept falling as part of the sport. To improve, a climber needs to push limits, and that means risking a fall. A climber on a top rope (in a gym, for example) should have nothing to fear. Lead climbers must accept greater risk, but should still fall harmlessly if they prepare and react correctly. This is an area where I’ve got mountain-sized room to improve, as I average about one leader fall every five years. In contrast, Tommy Caldwell fell hundreds of times on his six-year quest to climb the Dawn Wall of El Capitan. Better to split these two extremes.

10. Everyone enjoys climbing more than we are considerate to each other. This means keeping your noise down, picking up your

Linnae Johansson enjoys a climb at Auburn Quarry.

trash and helping those in need. It also helps to climb popular routes quickly so others can enjoy the route after you’re done. This has an added benefit of allowing one to climb more, as my friend Hans Florine advocates and has practiced countless times on his many record-breaking speed climbs.

Cathedral Peak keeps calling me back. Following my 50th birthday, I teamed up with my cousin to climb it for the seventh time. After the pandemic restricted the park all summer, we enjoyed a glorious

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autumn day.

When I reached the granite crack that had stumped me 26 years earlier, this time I knew how to place my hands and feet to climb it. But I also saw a ramp that allowed me to avoid the obstacle entirely! Then we climbed nearby Eichorn Pinnacle (5.4) as a bonus.

I’m looking forward to many more years on the rocks, and every time I see Cathedral Peak, I’m grateful to the majestic mountain for teaching me how to climb and how good climbing feels. ●

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thegreatoutdoors

Playing where legends have walked

By SETH CLARK

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truly love playing golf here in the Central Valley. There are plenty of beautiful and challenging courses scattered throughout California and most of the golf I play is here in the 209. But you can only play the same courses over and over again until you get the urge to explore new terrain.

The real beauty of golf which sets it apart from other sports is that each course is unique to itself and offers a new set of challenges to face. Unlike most sports which are always played in the same fashion no matter the setting, golf is a completely different experience for each course you visit.

Another aspect of golf which makes it so amazing and unlike any other sport is that you can go play the same courses that the most iconic and legendary players have played on. Only in your dreams can you ever imagine going and playing in front of a packed house at Madison Square Garden, or hitting a homer out of Fenway Park. But you could book a tee time at Pebble Beach or The Old Course at Saint Andrews tomorrow and stand on the same grounds as Jack Nicholaus and Tiger Woods and all the other greats of the game.

Every now and then my friend John and I will plan out a golf trip to go explore these hidden gems and iconic venues.

Traveling is something that makes the game more enjoyable and memorable for us. In April we booked a trip to Washington to meet up with our friend Michael and the three of us played three spectacular courses.

The first round we played was at Salish Cliffs Golf Club in Shelton Washington.

The course was immaculate to say the least. Carved out of the Kamilche Valley, this par 72 championship course had some of the nicest views I’ve witnessed on a golf course. There were many tests of skill with uphill and downhill shots and a 600-foot change in elevation through 18 holes. One thing I enjoyed the most was the absence of homes. I love being surrounded by trees and undulating hills not only for the lush scenery, but I don’t have to worry about slicing into anyone’s window.

After we finished at Salish Cliffs, we drove 30 miles west to play our second round of the day at The Home Course in Dupont. Once ranked as the number two best public course in Washington, it

is easy to see why The Home Course will house the offices for the USGA, PNGA (Pacific Northwest Golf Association), and Washington Golf. As we played through our rounds, we got a panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and a few glimpses of Mount Rainier in the distance.

The course was manicured like a private country club and there were so many people young and old out playing the course. When we got onto the back nine a young lady golfer joined our group and she was a plus one handicap. John, Mike and I were in awe watching her play the game. She was outdriving us and hit just about every fairway and green in regulation. I’d never played with someone so talented until that day and it made the experience even more memorable. It was unlike any golf experience I’ve had.

Back here in the 209 you have a lot of weekend hackers out just having a fun time slapping the ball around and catching a buzz. There is nothing wrong with just hitting the course to hang out with your friends and have a few laughs, but the whole vibe at The Home Course was all about the love of the game and honing your talents.

Our third and final round came the next morning. We played the iconic Chambers Bay, which hosted the 2015 U.S Open where Jordan Spieth won and they just finished up the 2021 U.S Amateur Four-Ball Championship. This was by far the most stunning and beautiful course I’ve ever been to.

Built upon an old gravel mine adjacent to Puget Sound, Chambers Bay is an 18-hole par 72 course designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Jr. Upon arriving to the golf course, you must first check in at the clubhouse which presents a breathtaking view of the links style course.

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The difference between a links course and your more generic everyday course you’d see in the 209 is the way the course presents itself. Links courses date back to the very first golf course ever created at The Old Course in Saint Andrews Scotland in the early 15th century. All true links style courses are found alongside the sea.

Back in the 1500s, course designers didn’t have many tools to work with so most of the land has maintained its original layout. Instead of being challenged by trees or house lined fairways, links courses test a golfer’s course management by utilizing the natural elements of the terrain. Undulating hills, long grassy knolls, and windswept dunes are what makes up a links course. You won’t find many trees or homes when playing a true links course.

Chambers Bay is as true to links style golf that you’ll find here in the United States. Due to the lack of trees and openness of the course, there really is no one true way to play the course. Golfer of all handicaps can play their own style and shape their shots around the greens because there is so much room to utilize.

As summer approaches and we leave spring behind I find myself searching all over the globe for my next big golf trip.

Some that come to mind is We-Ko-Pa in Scottsdale Arizona, Cabot Cliffs in Inverness Nova Scotia, or Bandon Dunes in Bandon Oregon. If you are planning a golf trip and have some great stay and play courses in mind or if you are looking to plan a buddies’ trip and are unsure of where to go email me at foreyourinfo209@gmail.com and we can discuss more in depth how to go about planning a trip. For the next issue I will be booking some lessons with a local professional and talking about my experience and what I learned. Until next time, hit it hard. ●

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5/26/21 12:22 PM

fulloflife

By TERESA HAMMOND

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plan to live a long, full life.

I became recommitted to that 11 years ago, post two babies and plus more pounds than I care to recount. It was a moment, in fact, which this very column space became a result of when I chose to share my weight loss journey with our readers.

Dropping those pounds and recommitting to my health was just as they all say, life changing.

It gave me renewed hope for being on this planet a very long time and living a very full life – regardless of calendar pages and the Times Square ball dropping.

In late April I attended an 80th birthday party of one of my mentors and long-time friends. In truth she looks pretty much the same as she did the day I met her 20 years ago.

She’s still active, vivacious, energetic and a true ball of fun.

That being said, her 80th birthday party was probably one of the most enjoyable parties I’ve been to in a while.

As the party girl circled the tables of an area eatery, adorned in blinged out “8-0” glasses thanking her guests and sharing stories, I did what writers do: observed.

Once she made her way to our table, my partner (aka compadre) asked the question of the hour, “How do you stay so young? What’s the secret?”

Without hesitation the vibrant birthday girl looked him straight in the eye and simply stated, “I choose joy.”

She went on to expand on the simplicity of her statement, noting that each morning as she rises, regardless of what life may have dealt for the day, she chooses to be full of joy.

“It’s a conscious choice … every day,” she said.

Listening to the two of them, I couldn’t help but beam with my own joy at her simple secret.

Personally, I’ve run in to my fair share of critics. You know the ones that try and break you down, the ones who don’t see rainbows and butterflies. The ones who call themselves “realists,” yet marvel at the ones like myself who rise above the tough times still full of smiles and optimism.

Positivity is a funny thing. As I’ve journeyed through some rough (personal and medical) roads, I tend to read a lot. Book after book about any given topic to help navigate through the tough road.

One of my doctors recently echoed something I had read in not one, but multiple books. Medically speaking the long-term effects of positivity on one’s health cannot be scientifically proven, yet doctor after doctor have witnessed its positive effects.

Case in point, as I type this, I have relationships with 209MAGAZINE.COM

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four specialists getting me through my cancer journey. Each of the four, an oncologist, radiation oncologist, primary surgeon and plastic surgeon, have all shared the importance of a positive outlook when overcoming cancer.

Each of them sharing stories of patients who have battled some tough stuff, yet continued to show up to appointments full of optimism and a ‘can do’ spirit. I get that and I’m grateful.

So as this column space was aptly named “Fitness and Beyond” several years ago, it now seems more fitting than ever before. While the Fitness element has been briefly paused, the current chapter has taken us to the “Beyond,” the why, the how?

An upbeat mental state of being is indeed beyond what many might consider or give thought to when in search of optimum health. It is about so much more than the 80 percent what you eat and 20 percent activity formula. It is absolutely in looking at that glass and whether it’s full or empty, being grateful for a glass all the same.

In short, my life aspirations go beyond the age of 80; why wouldn’t they? My fitness goals are still very real and I look forward to sharing those lessons here once again. Until then however, I’m simply going to live on the “Beyond” side and well … choose joy. ●

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5/26/2021 12:34:17 PM

placecalledhome

By KRISTINA HACKER

F

rom experiences to surroundings, the past year has brought a renewed focus on feeding the soul. In an era of overstimulation and information overload, many are finding a new appreciation for living life minimally but with maximum experiences.

That mentality is increasingly evident in all aspects of life, especially with home design and decor. After all, spending more time at home means more time to discover what truly evokes happiness.

At the same time, as the focus on physical and mental wellness heightens, design experts see those trends reflected in a more considered approach to design inspired by color therapy, which makes it possible to create beautiful spaces filled with healing color.

With an expertly coordinated color palette, colors work in perfect harmony in any combination.

Thoughtful use of color is among the most effective design tools for revealworthy style in your home. ●

r o l o c h t i w s e c a p s g

n i v i l e s u Inf

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APPLIANCES In the past, appliances were meant to blend into the decor to be less obvious, albeit essential, elements of a kitchen. A more contemporary approach: vibrant appliances that get noticed. You can find major appliances in a wide range of colors, but if you’re not sure about going that big and bold, many smaller countertop appliances, such as stand mixers and toasters, come in a range of colorful options, too.

CABINETS Painted cabinets are on-trend, and if you’re bored with basic whites and grays, you’re not alone. Designers are going bold in the kitchen and using cabinetry as a showpiece. These color palettes create inspiring spaces that invite you to get busy baking or simply pull up a chair and linger over a cup of coffee.

FURNITURE Whether you’re into project pieces you can transform into something new or simply shopping for furnishings that complement your space, be sure to consider how the furniture fits into the overall color scheme. Selecting furniture that fits with the design brings a more cohesive and stylized feel to the room.

For example, a desk and bookshelves in pale natural hues can lend warmth to an office with walls painted a cool dynamic blue.

ARCHITECTURE When contemplating where and how to apply color to a space, avoid boxing in your options. Think beyond traditional wall space when planning ways to change the color in a space; be thoughtful with color and highlight architectural details to elevate the interest and charm in your home. Take a 360-degree immersive color approach, painting the same shade from floor to ceiling and all around to create a mood-boosting lift to a room.

To infuse more color and boldness into your space, consider a timeless and elegant shade of red, like HGTV Home by SherwinWilliams’ 2021 Color of the Year.

This paint color, “Passionate,” is a deeply saturated hue that is daringly rich and invigorates the senses. This bold and empowering red is steeped in history, merging modern design with traditional charm.

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marketplace

By SABRA STAFFORD

L

ike its namesake in Yosemite National Park, the El Capitan Hotel has risen up in downtown Merced, offering guests a new level of grandeur and hospitality.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests to experience the JdV by Hyatt brand’s inclusive spirit and joy-driven service through this new chapter in the hotel’s history,” said Robin Donovan, managing director of El Capitan and Mainzer. “There is so much to discover in Merced from the charm of the town’s classic American Main Street to the surrounding farms and vineyards.

We’re opening during a unique time, but El Capitan has been a beacon in

this community offering access to comfort and adventure for more than 100 years and that is a tradition we’re excited to expand upon.”

El Capitan’s 114-guestrooms, including three one-bedroom suites and nine junior suites, are spread across the restored Arbor Lane Wing and newly constructed Main Street Wing. El Capitan’s Arbor Lane guestrooms offer whimsical elements including custom wallpaper highlighting local historic landmarks, old-fashioned telephones and record players in each room. In the spirit of connecting guests to the local neighborhood, the hotel also offers a continually updated library of vinyl 209MAGAZINE.COM

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from Tigers and Daggers Records, located one block away from the hotel.

Every architectural and design element inside the hotel was carefully planned out with the overall goal of making guests feel comfortable. The design took inspiration from Merced’s history with the railroads and celebrates the beauty and splendor of both Yosemite and the Central Valley.

Creations from local artists that pay homage to the agricultural and cultural traditions of the region adds the finishing touches to accommodations.

El Capitan offers three distinct dining experiences that all call upon the bounty of the Central Valley, a region famous

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There is so much to discover in Merced from the charm of the town’s classic American Main Street to the surrounding farms and vineyards. ­—Robin Donovan for producing more than a quarter of the nation’s food. The casually chic Native Son, named for the famed climbing route in Yosemite National Park, is a casual 30-seat outlet that transitions from a café during the day to a free-spirited, community bar in the evening. The open-air Courtyard entices guests with a relaxed dining and drinking experience centered around a custom bar set in a retrofitted horse trailer. Bathed in the California sunshine, The Courtyard is perfect for an afternoon cocktail or light bite. Rainbird, the property’s signature restaurant, will debut in summer 2021 with destinationworthy dining from Chef Quentin Garcia highlighting Merced’s agricultural abun-

dance to produce meals that reflect the unique flavors of the location.

Bobby’s Market, located in El Capitan, will open in late-spring 2021 with a curated Central Valley artisan experience and a tastefully updated version of the classic mercantile. Featuring a selection of locally made products, travel essentials and handmade goods the market will also include a “build-your-own” trail mix bar with locally grown nuts and fruits.

El Capitan offers more than 3,000 square feet of dedicated meeting and event spaces, spread across three indoor and one outdoor space. The Courtyard is a unique and flexible outdoor venue for weddings and social 209MAGAZINE.COM

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events in the California sunshine.

The Sentinel is an upscale room that can be used for events with a dining option. Joe’s Boardroom offers users a space with the latest technology and the Drawing Room is a meeting space designed to inspire creativity.

For guests wanting to workout, El Capitan has a fitness center with Peloton equipment.

Just steps from the hotel, Mainzer, a recently renovated and reopened theatre dating back to the early 1920s, offers live performances, movies and entertainment coupled with a lively bar and restaurant.

To book a room at El Capitan visit www.hyatt.com or call (209) 383-1234. ●

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marketplace

I

t all started with a coop full of chickens and a bunch of eggs. At least, that’s how the story has been told time and time again by the young entrepreneur team of SONS Farm Fresh, a produce company owned and operated out of Oakdale.

While the farm stand/produce business is hardly new hat in the 209 agricultural community, the eight hands and four faces behind this local business are most definitely atypical.

Owned and operated by the “SONS”: Madison, Jackson, Allison and Hudson Ruvalcaba, the members of this sibling team range in age from 21 to 14.

Now entering their fourth season in the farming business, the young family team shared the endeavor began quite simply during

By TERESA HAMMOND the summer of 2018. At the time the quartet were 18, 16, 13 and 11 years of age with a bounty full of farm fresh eggs.

Eating eggs daily as a family, they were unable to keep up with consumption of the eight to nine dozen yielded daily by their chickens.

Solution? Simple. Offer them for sale via social media.

“Eight or nine dozen sold within minutes,” Jackson said of the sale of those initial eggs back in 2018. “It just went crazy.”

Excited by the success, the four siblings inquired if they could expand what they were selling and offer honey and almonds as well.

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the shoulders of the four kids.

Now as they ramp up into the fourth season, that simple offering has morphed into 10 acres of their 75-acre family farm being dedicated to the growth and cultivation of over 40,000 plants. The remaining 65 acres, eldest “Son” Madison shared still yields almonds.

“This year (we) planted over 40,000 plants in total,” Madison shared. “We’ve really expanded with just our crops.”

The family maintains a permanent farm stand location, in the city’s east end at 1936 E. F St., Oakdale, just past the Oakdale Saddle Club Rodeo Grounds. Traditionally opened by mid- to late-May, this year the foursome will be expanding their exposure by also branching out to local Farmer’s Markets.

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Peaches perfect for making pie, cobbler or just enjoying fresh are shown here by Madison.

“This is the first season we’re doing farmer’s markets and pop-ups,” Madison stated, noting their plans to be in Ripon, Riverbank and the Oakdale farmer’s markets.

What were once four eager farming kids simply motivated to make some money from the family farm, are now savvy business owners each with their own “niche” within the family business.

“In the beginning I learned a lot. I had no clue what to garden, how to garden and I was pretty shy,” Allison, now 16, noted of the early days when she was just 13 years of age. “I couldn’t really talk to adults that well. Now I’ve gotten into some really special connections, it’s

We had no idea how much work it takes to farm and garden everything.

From sunrise to sundown we are working.

— Madison Ruvalcaba been really special to me in the way I’ve grown in confidence.”

The third-born child out of the four, Allison is also the lead in charge of managing product as well as personnel for the base farm stand and the farmer’s markets.

“We had no idea how much work it takes to farm and garden everything,” Madison shared of what they’ve learned the most since first beginning in the summer of 2018. “From sunrise to sundown we are working.”

If they’re not in field doing manual labor, they can be found working on administrative tasks, as well as marketing.

“But it’s definitely worth it,” Madison said.

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Allison, 16, proudly showing off a few onions grown by the family.

The family farms a large variety of fruits and vegetables, all grown fresh on their Oakdale farm.

“Once we seed thousands of seeds, we store them in our greenhouse until they are ready for planting,” Madison shared of the yearround process. “When it comes to our fruit trees, we have to make sure that they are getting the correct amount of water. Once we start getting fruit, that’s when we begin thinning our fruit trees.”

While planting and thinning begin in the off season, harvesting of the crops begins in May and traditionally has wrapped by early fall … that is, until now. 

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marketplace

A recent graduate from Master’s University, Madison has made the decision to become a full-time farmer with the family business.

“I think the main thing is just being able to provide for our community, I’ve always loved giving and helping out others,” Madison said of her change in career path. “Just being able to provide fresh produce makes other people happy, so it makes me helpful as well.”

In addition to making the transition of working the family farm full time, Madison is also excited to extend the season for the SONS Farm Fresh, beginning with a pumpkin patch this fall.

“Once I get Halloween down, my goal is to eventually be open for Thanksgiving and Christmas as well,” she said, noting the added research of farming late season crops which will be a new endeavor for the family.

“I’m so blown away by this,” mom Amy said of her four children and their continued dedication to SONS Farm Fresh. “They’re just doing it all on their own. I have not witnessed one meltdown or argument between them. They just really enjoy it.”

“I’m really proud of them,” Amy continued.

“That they took the initiative and wanted to do something like this. That they’d spend their whole summer at the fruit stand working. I just feel really blessed. I’m really happy for them.”

For additional information or to see the latest comings and goings of the “SONS” they can be found on social media at Sons Farm Fresh or on their website at www.sonsfarmfresh.com ●

TOP: Where it all happens for the four entrepreneurs of SONS Farm Fresh; ABOVE: SONS Farm Fresh farm stand can be found at 1936 E. F St., Oakdale, on the eastern end of the city limits; LEFT: The “Sons” of SONS Farm Fresh, based in Oakdale: Jackson, Allison, Madison and Hudson with their Saint Bernard SONny. 209MAGAZINE.COM

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marketplace

Ag Center serves up one stop shop for farmers

By MARG JACKSON

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE AG CENTER

F

arming is big business in the 209 … and the Ag Center is helping those in the business succeed.

With an original location on Highway 59 in Merced and now a second site off Highway 99 in Tulare, the Ag Center bills itself as “California’s One Stop Shop” for farmers and growers, with a multitude of services under one roof.

From water security to crop management, land acquisition to financing, asset management, marketing services, development services and amendment services, it’s likely whatever the farmers in the community need, they will find it at the Ag Center.

The Merced site basically reaches the Modesto, Merced and Madera areas; the Tulare site is geared to farmers in the Fresno, Tulare and Bakersfield areas.

It’s all about streamlining and convenience, saving time for farmers to increase productivity, said Program Coordinator/Marketing Director Sara VanderPoel.

“We opened on Highway 59 in 2018,” VanderPoel said, noting that the idea grew from a couple of different companies that worked together within the farming community, believing it would be beneficial to be at the same location.

Other companies soon wanted to join in, she explained, and the idea for the Ag Center really took root, with

Doug Brunner the official founder of the Ag Center. The Merced site opened in April 2018.

“It morphed into the Ag Center and we now have 24 companies affiliated with us,” VanderPoel said of that original idea of cooperation.

The Merced site quickly became an established ‘go to’ for farmers and growers throughout the Central Valley. Given the expansive coverage area, the decision was made to open a second location a little further to the south. In January 2021, a second site opened in Tulare, “right off the 99,” said VanderPoel.

Whether it is a farmer looking for gypsum for his fields or someone seeking information about financing a land acquisition, those are questions that can be answered at the Ag Center.

One of the biggest benefits, VanderPoel added, is the amount of time that can be saved for farmers and growers, as they can get valuable information and connections to established businesses with a phone call or a visit to the Ag Center site.

“They can go to leaders in the industry. They don’t have to do the vetting process,” VanderPoel said.

“We have people reach out to us on Instagram; people can come in and ask questions.”

She said even if a company does not have the right equipment, service or information to meet the needs of a particular farmer or grower, they can

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point them in the right direction.

Each company under the umbrella of the Ag Center has its own individual staff, said VanderPoel, and many of the companies do have a physical staff on site at ‘The 59’ location in Merced.

Others can be contacted through the Ag Center but may have their own office at a different site, though the center can serve as a clearinghouse for the needed information.

The Ag Center can help farmers focus on key areas of concern, including water, labor, an aging agriculture population and time management.

Water conservation and compliance companies are part of the center, while there is also an HR firm to assist with employment issues. Recruiting and retaining younger farmers is a goal as well, along with assisting farmers and growers to expedite solutions for those unexpected problems that can hamper their production schedule.

There are a half dozen program coordinators for the center, able to link farmers and growers with any of the more than 20 affiliated companies that can help with their specific situation.

Above all, the Ag Center prides itself on being a “problem solver” – helping the region’s growers address a variety of concerns with fact-based information and time-proven methods.

More information is available by emailing: info@theagcenter59.com; going to the website: theagcenter.com; or by calling: 209-336-5636. ●

MONTH/MONTH 2021

5/26/2021 10:27:18 AM

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marketplace

Reduce labor costs by outsourcing to

a marketing agency

By BETH DEVINE

M

arketing is one of the most vital processes in any business, regardless of type or size. Effective marketing leads to growth and the truth is, it’s

not easy. Marketing-related tasks can be difficult to juggle and stay consistent, especially if you have a small team — or if it’s just you.

As a result, many business

owners decide to outsource their marketing to professional agencies. Below, we discuss the value of outsourcing your marketing initiatives and show you some of the benefits. ●

What does outsourcing marketing mean?

Outsourced marketing is the process of delegating all or some of your marketing activities to a third-party. You can choose to outsource some, most, or all of your marketing and business development tasks which typically include the following:

•

Content production and distribution (blogs, articles, press releases, social media content, etc.)

Social media marketing

• • • • • •

Website design and development Search engine optimization (SEO) Graphic design and branding Email marketing Pay-Per-Click (PPC) marketing

The best way to see which of these you need to outsource is by communicating your business goals to a professional marketing agency and gaining insight as to their approach about the best methodologies to meet your goals.

Ideally, outsourcing your marketing efforts is best if you:

— Are planning for growth but don’t have (enough) people to actually do the work

— Are lacking marketing experience

— Need help with specific aspects of marketing

— Are you not seeing the results you wish to see with your current strategy.

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The 4 Key Benefits of Outsourced Marketing

Now, let’s see the benefits of outsourcing your marketing to a professional marketing agency.

Save Time and Resources

Did you know that the cost of outsourcing marketing services is way more affordable than hiring one person as your Marketing Manager?

Access the Latest Technologies

Marketing agencies that are effective continually innovative and are constantly testing new technologies. Investing in new platforms comes with a steep learning curve – so, having a specialized marketing partner means you can benefit from their tools and guidance.

Improve Your ROI

Hiring a marketing agency needs to be a decision that takes your ROI requirements into account.

Gain a New Perspective

Change is difficult if you keep doing what you have been. Technology changes rapidly and the risk you have is you don’t know what you don’t know to levelup your business.

By outsourcing your marketing, you can avoid stagnation and leverage new technologies and platforms. This enables you to gain a new perspective which will help you get more customers.

Still Not Sure If You Should Outsource to A Marketing Agency?

If you are still not sure whether to outsource to a professional marketing agency or use your budget to hire more people in-house, our quiz can help you make a final decision. https://devinedigitalmarketing.com/businessquiz/

— Beth Devine is one of the most sought-after marketing experts in the Central Valley. She is the founder and principal of Devine Solutions Group, an award-winning digital marketing agency headquartered in Tracy, CA. Connect with Beth by either calling 510-773-0528 or email her at beth@devinesolutionsgroup.com.

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