209 Magazine - Issue 46

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021 - ISSUE 46 - $4.95

$4.95US

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A Perfect Summer Recipe with…

California Almonds

Almond Cream Tart

ur n puff -purpose flo ought froze • 2 tbsp all ality store-b eets high qu sh 2 • sted ole milk pastry, defro • 2 cups wh ble on stick with vegeta • 1 egg yolk • 1 cinnam d ele pe , st avy cream lemon ze onds • 1 tbsp he • 1 strip of anched Alm J Slivered Bl S& peeler p cu ¾ • r ga • ½ cup su eam the pastry cr gs 9. Spread • 2 large eg s to e puff ch th gin ar be er st ov m rn ea ly co even • 2 tbsp until the cr . , keeping t 5 minutes an, pastry circle ium saucep thicken, abou at.

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FEATURES The votes are in and the “Best of 209” winners have been selected.

This year 125,745 votes were tallied in 396 categories to get our 1,000 winners. Be sure to congratulate these outstanding businesses and organizations throughout the 209.

And the winners are…

62 68 73 80 83 89 98

Academics

Family and Recreation

Animals and Farm Services

Automotive

Foothills and Mountains

Beverages

Health and Fitness

Home

Community

Dining

Entertainment

Professional Services

Real Estate

Shopping

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021 – ISSUE 46

IN THE KNOW 16 20 24 28

Calendar Of Events The Lemonade Girls Mokelumne Hill Summer Fun

DEPARTMENTS 20

36

ARTS&CULTURE 32 36

Sierra Repertory Night Out Fashion

FLAVORS 42 44 46

Xaviers Grove Hey Bartender Off The Vine

FEATURE 48 50 53

2021 American Graffiti Events The Cruise Continues Graffiti Usa Classic Car Museum

NAVIGATOR 56

Petaluma

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

56

154 Sierra Splendor 158 Fore Your Information

166

FULL OF LIFE 162 164 166 170

Fitness And Beyond “The Comeback Quotient” The Best Of You Valley Vibes

A PLACE CALLED HOME 172 Dream Home 176 Ripon Garden Stroll

180

MARKETPLACE 178 180 182 184

Sierra Cidery A Better Place 209 Multimedia Expands Into Westside Cocobee Company 209MAGAZINE.COM

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:19:52 AM

August/ September 2021

Vol. 8 No. 46

$4.95

PUBLISHER/OWNER Hank Vander Veen

EDITOR Kristina Hacker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAHERS Jeff Benziger Sethaniel Clark Teresa Hammond Marg Jackson Matt Johanson Angelina Martin Sabra Stafford Virginia Still Frankie Tovar

ART DIRECTOR Harold L. George

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sharon Hoffman

SALES & MARKETING Chris Castro Beth Flanagan Rich Matheson Karen Olsen Corey Rogers Melody Wann Charles Webber

SPECIAL CONSULTANT Larry Dovichi

Our “2021 Best of 209” issue is finally here. Every summer we ask our readers to rate what they consider the “best” in everything from academics to dining to real estate and recognize the winners in this issue and at 209magazine.com. All the local businesses in the 209 deserve a round of applause this year for their perseverance in the face of unprecedented adversity. We appreciate all local 209 businesses that in spite of ongoing state and county mandates — sometimes changing week to week — continued to serve their communities.

As a locally-owned company, we also appreciate your continued readership and hope you will support the businesses and organizations that partner with us in this and every issue of 209 Magazine.

Along with our Best of 209 special section, this issue features the delayed return of an iconic summer event — The American Graffiti Festival and Car Show. This hugely popular tribute to classic cars and cruising will be held at various locations and dates during the month of August. Find out the details of the events and get a preview of the new Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum.

As always, this issue includes our popular golf column by Sethaniel Clark, local restaurant features, fashion and information on upcoming arts events.

We welcome your comments, calendar events and stories for upcoming issues and we look forward to being the most relevant magazine in your home, a place called 209.

Hank Vander Veen Publisher & President hvanderveen@209magazine.com 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 121 S. Center St., 2nd Floor • Turlock, CA 95380 Comments: khacker@209magazine.com 209magazine.com ©Copyright 2021. 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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Notes

with FRANKIE TOVAR

Ryan Clay: Deadlift World Record Holder

Meet Ryan Clay, a powerlifter from Turlock who broke the World Association of Bench Pressers and Dead Lifters 242-pound class deadlift world record in the men’s RAW division (drug tested with no equipment) after completing a 706-pound lift on May 15, 2021. Where does a world record holder train? In his coach’s garage in Modesto. Watch this episode and see Ryan train for yourself.

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

bit.ly/209PodcastApple

bit.ly/209PodcastSpotify

Manteca’s Market On Maple

Dubbed “Market on Maple”, this Thursday night event has become a certified hit in Manteca. It should come as no surprise then that we had to go see it for ourselves! We weren’t disappointed when we showed up as we were met with a DJ, beer garden, and delicious food options that were enough to make us want to visit again.

STUDIO209.T V

WE’VE GOT THE 209 COVERED

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Alegria Performing Arts Academy

The newest business to hit Downtown Turlock is the Alegria Performing Arts Academy, a two-floor operation that hosts a number of classes for children and adults. Angelina visited the academy and spoke with owner Gabrielle Forrest about moving to a new location in the wake of the California shutdown and how her business has evolved over the years.

72nd Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee

You’ve seen logging competitions on TV, but did you know there’s a jubilee in the 209 where you can watch chainsaw, axe, and other lumber events in person? We packed our camera equipment and rushed to the small town of Tuolumne to cover this unique event firsthand and we weren’t disappointed. Watch the episode and mark your calendars for next year’s event!

UPCOMING EPISODES 289: Stanislaus County Fair 2021 290: Gustine Festa 291: Downtown Turlock: 292: IPA Day: Blaker Brewing

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intheknow

Scene

in the

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ne thing is for certain — people in the 209 will not let the summer heat stop them from having some summer fun. And it’s been great to see all those smiling faces. We can’t wait to see you at more events in the 209. ●

GOURD AND FINE ART FESTIVAL The Amador Gourd Artists organization hosted the annual Gourd and Fine Art Festival at the Amador Flower Farm in June. The annual event brought in gourd artists from all over the 209, as well as the Sacramento region and the Bay Area. Visitors were able to explore their works, vote for a fan favorite and enjoy the food and drink vendors on the grounds. For more information visit amadorgourdartists.com.

By SABRA STAFFORD

Bambi Papais of Murphys and K.C. McClure of Santa Rosa enjoyed their stroll through the flower farm and the chance to check out all the various art at the event.

MODESTO NUTS NURSES VS. TEACHERS Nurses and teachers, perhaps some of the hardest-working professionals over the last year, got a chance to blow off some steam and have some fun competition in a softball game organized by the Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball Club.

Bragging rights went to the nurses.

Teacher Kelly Gossett of Modesto and Karin Brumley, a nurse from Escalon were all smiles together even though they were on opposing sides for the game.

Ruchi Goyal and her daughter Swati Goel, both of West Point, explored the grounds and the various vendors at the Gourd and Fine Art Festival.

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TUOLUMNE LUMBER JUBILEE All things lumber and the history it has had in shaping Tuolumne County were celebrated at the Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee event in June. The two-day festival organized by VFW Post 4748 featured logging events, a tug-o-war contest, arm wrestling competitions, live music and a parade. For more information about the event, visit the organizers at vfwpost4748.org.

Chris Avalos, Leo Bodea and Noah Dudney were all medalists in the arm wrestling competition round for amateurs 175 pounds and below.

Kierstin Davis, Alana Black and Reghan Miller all competed to take home the crown at the Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee.

STANISLAUS COUNTY FAIR The Stanislaus County Fair welcomed back visitors with fair food, livestock shows and arena action. The event may have been pared down this year, but visitors were enjoying the pop-up shops and the food vendors. The fair does plan on returning in full force for 2022. For more information visit stancofair.com

Celeste and Liam Perreira eagerly await the start of the tractor pulls.

Raylen Barcellos and Daniel Gomes, Jr. of Newman 4-H pose with a calf during opening night of the Stanislaus County Fair.

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Turlock residents Malia Roton and David Mann took advantage of the fair’s free admission to grab some Fair Food Bites.

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PORTUGUESE FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER

The Carlos Vieira Foundation is hosting the annual San Joaquin Valley Portuguese Festival presented by the Portuguese Fraternal Society of America.

The two-day event will be Aug. 28 and 29 at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds at 900 N. Broadway in Turlock.

The family-friendly event will showcase traditional Portuguese dancing, music, and cuisine. The festival will be kicked off by a Portuguese parade on Saturday followed by plenty of activities including folklore performances, bull on a rope by Joe Vaz, philharmonic performances, wine and cheese tasting, a cultural exhibit, carnival rides, plenty of Portuguese food and craft vendors.

The festivities will continue on Sunday and the main attraction will be a traditional Portuguese Bloodless Bullfight.

Two-day advance tickets will be $15 presale only, tickets at the gate will be $10 per day, kids under 10 years old get free admission to the festival.

For more information and tickets visit fb.com/CVFoundation.

FIDDLERS’ JAM

The 70th annual Fiddlers’ Jam will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 18 at the Fiddletown Community Center.

The event will feature multiple bluegrass bands, open mic, acoustic jam sessions (bring your strings). Paired with country BBQ, artisan crafts, Fiddletown awardwinning wine, microbrew beer, historic gold rush building tours, and more.

The event has free admission. Parking is limited and available one block away.

For more information visit fiddletowncc.org.

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49ER FESTIVAL, PARADE AND CHILI/SALSA COOK-OFF The family fun event on Sept. 18 in Groveland will start with a parade on Main Street and will be followed by a day of festivities.

The festival will have vendors, live music and entertainment, food, a beard contest, old West gunfights, a silent and live auction, a Western costume contest, a live chainsaw carving contest, petting zoo, an archery activity, and a youth art contest.

There also will be a chili and salsa cook-off with attendees voting for the winner.

The festival will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Main Street and Mary Laveroni Park.

For more information call (209) 962-0429.

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FARMLAND 5K RACE

The inaugural Race to Slow the Pace 5K at Bokisch Vineyards in Lodi is a run to connect people with nature, the environment and family farms that feed them, while furthering California Farmland Trust’s mission.

Runners will weave their way through the scenic vineyard at Bokisch while taking in the vines, the habitat, and the value of open space that farmland provides.

Race day is Sept. 19. There also will be a virtual race.

Online registration will remain open until the organization reaches the maximum number of participants for the inperson race. There is no limit on the virtual registration.

To register and information on fees, visit https://www. cafarmtrust.org/racetoslowthepace/.

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By SABRA STAFFORD

T

he adage goes that if life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

Three young Merced girls have taken that piece of advice to heart and in doing so have made quite an impact on their community.

Logann Albrecht, Adison Martinez, and Sky Scott independently of one another opened and operated lemonade stands around Merced recently and raised money for causes close to their hearts.

“It is incredibly inspiring to see young people stepping up and using their talents to benefit the community,” said Merced Mayor Matt Serratto, who has championed the efforts of the three young philanthropists. “The more leaders we have taking ownership and making positive contributions, no matter how big or how small, the better off our city is - and these three young ladies embody exactly that kind of leadership we need. I am proud to have them on our team!”

All three girls said the idea of opening a lemonade stand had been stewing in their minds for a while. For Logann and Adison, both incoming third-graders at Luther Burbank Elementary School, it was a visit by the mayor to their classroom arranged by their teacher Daniella

It is incredibly inspiring to see young people stepping up and using their talents to benefit the community. ­—Merced Mayor Matt Serratto Avala that the idea really took root.

Logann’s family has a lemon tree on their property and for years she said she has been dreaming of putting them to use. This year she was finally given that opportunity.

“We just thought I would have a little lemonade stand, maybe fifty cents a cup, but then I thought maybe I could support CASA with it,” Logann said.

CASA is the acronym for court-appointed special advocates. They are volunteers appointed by a family law judge to advocate on behalf of children in the

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legal system, particularly those in abuse and neglect situations. It was work that was close to Logann’s heart because her grandmother is a CASA volunteer.

Logann wrote to Mayor Serratto seeking support for her fundraising efforts with the lemonade stand and her mother Ashlee Albrecht shared it on social media.

“It just rocketed after that,” Logann recalled.

That’s an apt description. In one day they went through 40 gallons of lemonade and raised thousands of dollar in donations. The donations have continued to come in, with the latest total at $4,261.

Rather than a set price per cup, Logann just asked for donations and she said people were very generous.

“Especially my great-grandpa - he gave us $150 bucks for one little cup,” she said.

CASA gave Logann a choice on how she would like her donation to be spent and she opted for the money to go towards covering the costs of activities the children might like to do.

“Like if a girl or boy wanted to do ballet, now they could buy the tutu and the shoes for them,” Logann explained.

“I think every kid should have a chance

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intheknow

to do what their dreams are.”

For Adison, the cause that spoke to her was the need for more trees. During the mayor’s visit to her classroom she learned about animals losing their homes when trees are cut down and she wanted to do something to help them.

“I thought a lemonade stand would be a fun activity and something I could do to help the animals, like the squirrels and birds and owls that have lost their homes,” Adison said.

The idea of operating a lemonade stand to raise money to purchase some young trees felt so right to her that she made a video presentation to convince her parents.

“We watched it and at the end I said, ‘Well, it looks like we’re having a lemonade stand,” said Adison’s mother Esmerelda Martinez.

Adison ran her lemonade stand for one day and asked people to make donations rather than setting a price. She knows they went through 75 cups of lemonade and by the day’s end she had raised $1,020.

“Honestly, we were trying to tamper her expectations and were telling her how great it would be if she raised $50,” said Adison’s father Tom Martinez.

“She said ‘No, I think I’m going to raise $1,000.’ We said ‘Ok, let’s shoot for $100.’ So, when she raised it, we were floored.”

Adison decided to use the funds to purchase 12 saplings that were planted at Rahilly Park in Merced.

The tree planting became part of a larger park cleanup project that was led by Mayor Serratto and the Merced Youth Council.

“It was fun,” Adison said of taking part in the park clean-up. “I made a new friend and we got to use the grabbers to pick up garbage.”

It was during the park clean-up that the volunteers were introduced to Sky Scott, an incoming third-grader at Farmdale Elementary. Sky saw the work the volunteers were doing and decided they were in need of some of her refreshing lemonade.

“It felt good to help them while they were working,” Sky said.

Sky has just started setting up her lemonade stand at different spots around town and she is doing it to raise money for a very specific goal.

“I’m going to buy coloring books and crayons and give them to the kids at the children’s hospital,” Sky said.

“I hope to buy 100.”

Sky said she got the idea after seeing a young family member in the hospital.

“They can’t move around and play,” Sky said. “This gives them something to do.”

Sky’s efforts are still in the beginning stages. So far she has raised $103 towards her goal.

The fundraising results by ­—Adison Martinez Logann and Adison did not go unnoticed in Merced. Both were recently named Volunteers of the Year and presented with awards during a city council meeting.

“I was pretty much screaming at the top of my lungs,” Adison said of when she learned of the award.

The experience has prompted the girls to look at other opportunities to help their community and with the help of their parents, are looking to start an organization that will give other kids around town monthly opportunities to volunteer their time to benefit others.

Logann is still collecting donation through a Venmo account @ LogannsLemonade.

I thought a lemonade stand would be a fun activity and something I could do to help the animals, like the squirrels and birds and owls that have lost their homes

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intheknow

By JEFF BENZIGER

N

estled into the folds of the Mother Lode hill country – which was swarming 170 years ago with gold hungry miners armed with picks and shovels, sluice boxes and pans – is a most charming little town.

Once populated by thousands at the height of its gold production, only about 700 populate the town of Mokelumne Hill today. They live in homes along hillsides and shuttle about on a handful of avenues shouldered by the old stone buildings, visages of time dating back to the presidency of Ulysses S. Grant.

Mokelumne Hill and the nearby river are named after the Plains

Mokelumne Hill and the nearby river are named after the Plains Miwok, the first occupants of this part of the 209.

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Miwok, the first occupants of this part of the 209. The name is derived from “moke,” meaning fishnet, and -umne, a suffix meaning “people of.” The town – some call it Moke Hill if they can’t pronounce the name – dates back to the late 1840s when French immigrants found gold here and set up camp.

The first known white men mining in the region was a company under Captain Charles M. Weber who mined along the Mokelumne River in late 1848 between Big Bar and Lower Bar. A party of miners from Oregon who discovered Big Bar inticed a provision wagon to drive to the area and this was so successful that a store was opened in November in Mokelumne Hill. Colonel

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Jonathan D. Stevenson’s Regiment of New York Army Volunteers reached Mokelumne Hill in 1848 and Samuel Pearsall of the regiment was the first to discover gold on the north side of Stockton Hill. In later years Col. Stevenson claimed to have been the first alcalde (mayor) of the town.

Like many of the towns springing up overnight with word of gold discovery and the infusion of hopeful immigrants to the Mother Lode, Mokelumne Hill’s star burned brightly before it faded. Once the largest town in Calaveras County, Mokelumne Hill served as the county seat from 1852 (after its removal from Jackson) until 1866 and boasted a cosmopolitan population of French, German, Chinese, and Italian, along with immigrants from the Eastern States. Water was supplied to the town by a canal system, while stages connected the town to Stockton and ships completed the link to San Francisco.

By the 1860s placer gold was tapped out and the town slid into decline. Farming and hard-rock mining boosted incomes around 1900 and helped the region weather the Great Depression of the 1930s.

While the Calaveras County berg looks as if it was forgotten by time, outside money has invigorated the business district for tourists. McHale’s Revival Shop occupies a building assembled of rock in 1855 and is dedicated to the “revival of vintage, frivolous, memorable and amusing items.” Also on Main Street, visitors can buy bagels, honey, handmade candies, cookies, pastries and espressos at Moke-A-Java/Moke Hill Nuts and Candies. The Whoopsie Daisy candy shop is another must stop.

Art lovers come to the Petroglyphe Gallery, billed as one of the finest boutique art galleries in Northern California that represents leading state and nationally known award-winning artists in a wide variety of subjects and mediums.

Weekend visitors with an appetite for wine or food can find Renegade Winery a place to relax on the outdoor patio in full view of the three-story Odd Fellows Hall – reported to be the first three-story building in California outside of coastal towns. The business offers flatbread pizzas, calzones, paninis and sandwiches, hamburgers, salads and wraps, and a child’s menu. Live music is

offered on weekends from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The real draw to Mokelumne Hill, however, is the ambiance of gold rush era historical buildings that have stood the test of time because of the use of stone blocks cut from nearby quarries. Worthy of admiration, many of the historic facades have plaques attached delineating their significance – or recapping snippets of town history.

By far the most impressive of structures is the Hotel Léger, built in 1875. Located at 8304 Main Street, it is one of the oldest continuously-operating hotels in California. One of its buildings was used as the Calaveras County courthouse when the town served as the county seat. The basement of the Hotel Léger was the first meeting place of E Clampus Vitus, commonly known as the Clampers. The hotel is a successor to the Hotel de France which was built on the site around

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1851. In 1853 George Leger purchased and expanded the establishment. The building was destroyed by fires in 1854 and 1874, thus Leger constructed the current two-story, vernacular Greek Revival Hotel de Europe stone structure incorporating the neighboring old Courthouse building.

Another building that dominates the center of town is the IOOF Hall, or Odd Fellows Building.

Also made of stone, it is reportedly the first threestory building in California outside of coastal cities. The original building was erected in 1855 as a two-story building. A third story to be used for lodge purposes was added later.

After the fire of 1874, many of the commercial structures were not rebuilt, due to the conclusion of the boom years for Mokelumne Hill as a commercial and political center.

The Congregational Church building is the oldest such in the state.

The original elementary school in Mokelumne Hill, which is still standing but has been converted to a private residence, was built in 1852 and was used until 1964. Unconfirmed legend has it that a bond issue to build the school failed, but citizens built it anyway.

Another interesting site is the former Baldwin Hotel, now a private home, located at the corner of Center and Clark. It was first built back in 1854 by John Rapetto and John Rogers and has housed several businesses including Raggio’s Stone House up until around 1876. When it was the Baldwin Hotel the basement was used 209MAGAZINE.COM

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The original elementary school in Mokelumne Hill, which is still standing but has been converted to a private residence, was built in 1852 and was used until 1964.

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as the Gardella Mortuary. The house was the site of a deadly self-inflicted gunshot wound of a James W. Porteous on March 25, 1903. The 25-year-old foreman of the What Cheer Mine had been drinking and gambling when he returned to his room and told his wife he wanted to shoot out the electric light. She told him if he must shoot to go outside. Heavily inebriated, Porteous reportedly shot himself by accident.

For those who want a truly historical experience, visitors can try to find the grave of Porteous who is buried at the Mokelumne Hill Cemetery, 8592 West Center Street, just down the road from where he tragically ended his own life. The Protestant Cemetery contains most of the former residents who were present in its heyday. They include Edith Irvine (1884-1949) who was a teacher but best known for her photos of the San Francisco Earthquake damage of 1906. On the morning of April 18, 1906, Edith happened to be taking her camera to the city by way of the Sacramento River.

She photographed the earthquake damage, returned to Mokelumne Hill and developed the photos. She showed them to very few people and packed them away. Her collec-

tion of 275 glass plate negatives was discovered after she died in 1949.

Sixty of those were of the San Francisco earthquake damage.

When they were discovered they proved to be a historically important treasure trove.

Others buried here include Melville Coggins (1840-1877), a mine foreman of the Duryea gravel mine on Chile Gulch, who was instantly killed in a cave-in. Another resident is Martin D. Fischer (1820-1909), a German native who in 1853 was part of the first pioneers who came to California through the Sonora Pass and the Walker River Trail. ●

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SUMMER FUN IN THE 209

By SABRA STAFFORD

S

ummer may be on the wind down, especially with school starting up again, but that

doesn’t mean there isn’t still plenty of time to have some summer fun in the 209. ●

Luxury Daycation Who among us doesn’t need a bit of rest and relaxation over the summer? And if you can do it in paradise, all the better. Paradiso Retreat sits on five acres in Acampo and offers a bevy of options to recharge mind, body and soul. The Retreat has activities like yoga and games, and it has areas to just relax, like lounging poolside or by a firepit. Or maybe the inner child wants to have some fun in the treehouse. Bookings can range from a two-person four-hour option with an Italian lunch for $300, or an all-day package for up to eight for $600.

For more information or to make a reservation, call (209) 277-1777 or follow them on Instagram at @paradiso_retreat.

Stargazing Enjoy a warm summer night outdoors and gaze up at the stars. For a guided night of stargazing check out the Stockton Astronomical Society. The Society’s mission is to foster interest and promote astronomy and related sciences and have fun in the process.

The Society offers lecture and tutorial programs, viewing opportunities at schools, and monthly public viewings at Oak Grove Regional Park, Delta College and special astronomical events.

For more information visit stocktonastro.org.

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Day on the Delta One of the true beauties of the 209, the Delta offers spectacular scenery and plenty of fun. One option to explore all the inlets and islands of the Delta is by boat.

Don’t worry if there isn’t a kayak stored in the garage or a Cabin Cruiser waiting at the dock, because there are lots of rental options. One such place is H2O Excursions at Village West Marina in Stockton. The family-owned business offers pontoon boat rentals, towable inner tube rentals, and a captained boat charter. They also have equipment for water activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and hydro biking along the Fourteen Mile Slough.

For more information visit myh2oexcursions.com

Take the Plunge Great Wolf Lodge in Manteca finally got to have their grand opening in June and is already making a splash.

The indoor waterpark is heated to a comfortable 84 degrees and features a variety of body slides, tube slides, raft rides, activity pools and splash areas for every member of the family. The family entertainment center, known as the Great Wolf Adventure Park, is where families can scale new heights on a multi-level ropes course, play a round of miniature golf, compete for prizes at the arcade, or step into the mystical world of MagiQuest – Great Wolf Lodge’s exclusive live-action adventure game where players use interactive magic wands to battle goblins and dragons.

For more information on Great Wolf visit www.greatwolf.com.

Drive-In Movie Indulge the inner beast calling out for buttery popcorn and head over to one of the several drive-in movie theaters that have opened in the 209. Gather up a carload, toss on your comfy clothes and spend the night watching a new summer release or one of the classic films being shown. One option for that classic drive-in experience is the Ceres CruiseIn, which features new movies on a 100-foot screen. For more information and a schedule of movies, visit cerescruisein.com.

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Banta School

Thanks For Awarding Us

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Healthy, beautiful skin is possible

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

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For 2021 we’re again awarded Best Steak House by 209 Magazine

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arts&culture

By SABRA STAFFORD

T

he spotlights will once again be shining at the Sierra Repertory Theatre and the Fallon House Theater as they launch an abridged season featuring a musical with a familiar ogre, a classic murder mystery and a feel-good radio play, along with a series of tribute concerts.

“There’s no question that the last 14 months have taken their toll on everyone,” said Scott Viets, SRT’s Producing Artistic Director.

“It’s ironic that at a time when live theatre has never been more needed in our lives, we have had to remain closed.

However, we couldn’t be more excited about the lineup of shows we have in store. We have carefully curated these shows to provide what we feel is needed the most now: joy, comfort, celebration, and fun.”

“We are excited to welcome back artists and audiences alike,” said Managing Director Jeremy Blunt “While the

pandemic is far from over and its effects continue to evolve, we are committed to a safe reopening of Sierra Repertory Theatre.”

The Main Stage series of Sierra Rep’s 2021 Homecoming Season opens with “Shrek the Musical on Sept. 2. The award-winning Broadway musical based on the Oscar-winning film finds the reclusive ogre on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess. Add to the mix a shorttempered wannabe king, a cookie with an attitude, over a dozen other classic fairy tale misfits, and song and dance numbers to tickle the funny bone. The New York Times called it “true happiness” and The Daily Mirror said it’s “the most fun you’ll ever have.”

The show is family friendly, but children under 5 years will not be admitted.

The show is two hours with an intermission.

A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac opens Sierra Rep’s 2021 Tribute Series. The show celebrates the chart-topping band of the 70s and 80s and is led by Yesenia McNett, the singer and performer from Texas.

In addition to fronting the Fleetwood Mac tribute, McNett has performed in other tribute shows as Patsy Cline and Linda Ronstandt, including one in Sonora in 2019 that sold-out.

The Fleetwood Mac tribute show is scheduled for Sept. 22 to 26.

MANIA! returns to SRT by popular demand with A Tribute to The Beatles. This encore performance reunites Aaron Linkin, Aaron Sion, Christ Ernst, and Jeremy Dawson, to celebrate the music of the four lads from Liverpool on Sept. 29 to Oct. 3.

Maggie Hollinbeck leads A Tribute to Joni Mitchell, on Oct. 20 to 24. This show honors the music of the Canadian musician,

We are excited to welcome back artists and audiences alike.

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singer, songwriter and painter. Featuring Hannah Jane Kile, Corey Morgan Strange, Natalie Hagwood, and Graham Sobelman.

Agatha Christie’s masterful mystery “Murder on the Orient Express will be at the East Sonora Theatre Oct. 28 to Nov. 28.

Just after midnight, a snowdrift stops the Orient Express in its tracks.

The luxurious train is filled to capacity, but by the morning, it is one passenger fewer. An American tycoon lies dead in his compartment, his door locked from the inside. Isolated, with a killer on the loose, Detective Hercule Poirot must identify the murderer–before he or she decides to strike again.

Ken Ludwig’s clever adaptation of the Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” boasts all the glamour, intrigue, and suspense of Dame Agatha’s celebrated novel, with

a healthy dose of humor to quicken the pace. The Huffington Post called it “a guaranteed good time.”

The show has adult themes, violence, simulated smoking, gunshots, and murder and is recommended for those 12 years and older. Children under 5 years will not be admitted. There will be strobe lighting and non-toxic haze effects. The show is two hours with an intermission.

“Meet Me in St. Louis: A Live Radio Play will close out the 2021 season, with shows set for Nov. 18 to Dec. 19 at the Fallon House Theatre.

This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of the Smith family unfolds just before the 1904 world’s fair took over St Louis’ and the nation’s imagination.

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The musical includes the best-loved songs from the film, including “The Boy Next Door,” “The Trolley Song,” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

The Reporter newspaper wrote about the show, stating “Meet Me in St. Louis: A Live Radio Play is perfect for a holiday outing and spot-on for the entire family. [You] won’t leave without a smile on your face.”

The show is two hours with an intermission. Children under 5 years will not be admitted.

The pandemic forced SRT to go dark for 14 months and has left the troupe with some challenges to overcome.

“Though we’re re-opening, we are by no means out of the woods yet,” said Associate Artistic Director Jerry Lee. “There’s a lot to rebuild. Our yearand-a-half-long closure will make

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arts&culture

smaller cast shows and reduced programming an inevitability in 2022. We remain committed to maintaining youth workshops and camps and our school-touring program. But if there’s anyone out there who is still wondering “How can I help SRT?”, the answer is to buy tickets and buy them early.

“We would be remiss not to mention the outpouring of community support we received during our mandated closure,” Lee said. “The dedication of our fans is astounding and a testament to how vital this organization is to our region.

Supporters made it very clear that there was no way they would lose the theatre because of the pandemic. In return, we’ve devised a dynamite season that offers comedy, suspense, and romance. And plenty of music. There’s something for everyone!”

As safety precautions are ever-evolving, SRT will continue to operate in accordance with the most current guidelines. Actors on stage will appear unmasked. A list of the most current guidelines will be available on the theatre’s website.

All the tribute concerts play for one week at the Fallon House Theatre in Columbia State Historic Park. Showtimes are at 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets for all tribute shows are $40.

Season subscriptions will not be sold for the 2021 season.

SRT will bring back season subscriptions for the 2022 Season. Ticket prices for the theatrical shows range from $30 to $42, and discounts are available.

SRT has also made the addition of three preview performances per mainstage production. Tickets to these performances are open to the public at a discounted rate.

The preview performance process allows the creative staff (directors and designers) an opportunity to adjust a production based on the addition of a live audience.

“Time off has also afforded all of us in management to sharpen our goals for the theatre thoughtfully,” said Viets. “As a result, our commitment to coming back “safer, stronger, better than ever” is not just rhetoric but well-laid plans that continue to materialize every day.”

The East Sonora Theatre is located at 13891 Mono Way, Sonora. The Historic Fallon House Theatre is located at 11175 Washington St. in Columbia, California. Both theaters are air-conditioned and ADA accessible.

For more information about showtimes, how to purchase and Sierra Repertory Theatre, please visit www.SierraRep. org or call the Box Office at (209) 532-3120. Follow Sierra Repertory Theatre on Instagram at @SierraRep; and on Facebook at Facebook.com/SierraRep. ●

The dedication of our fans is astounding and a testament to how vital this organization is to our region. Supporters made it very clear that there was no way they would lose the theatre because of the pandemic.

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A A RO N & J U DY KO E L SC H

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arts&culture

Summer S

Night Out

By SABRA STAFFORD

S

ummer nights bring a reprieve from the day’s heat and with that comes a whole host of reasons to get dressed up — from posh cocktail parties to family cookouts and from lakeside gatherings to weddings at dusk — the opportunities to look stylish are plentiful.

MadMack Boutique in Oakdale has a bountiful inventory of all types of styles to fit a variety of needs. The shop carries sizes and styles for women, juniors, plus and maternity.

Tiffany Trunnell recently opened MadMack, which is named and managed by two of her daughters, Madison and Mackenzie.

MadMack carries brands such as: Pistola denim, Ugg, Urban Daizy, Flying Monkey, Poi-

son Mushroom, Sweet Lovely by Jen, Blue Ivy, ePretty, Lotus and Luna, and many more.

Trunnell said she likes the shop to carry collections that will appeal to fashionistas of all stripes and for a variety of occasions, because it truly fits with the boutique’s mission, which comes from a quote from famed costume designer Edith Head.

“Our motto is that you can have anything you want in life if you dress for it,” Trunnell said. ●

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PHOTOS BY VIRGINIA STILL/ 209 Magazine

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MadMack Boutique is located at 114 N. 3rd St. in Oakdale. The shop is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesdays through Saturdays.

For more information call (209) 844-5116 or follow them on Instagram at @madmack_boutique.

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R

Flo

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whole food

plant based café Boutique

virtual office co-working

&

facility

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Floral Studio & Intimate Event Space

Specailizing in all-inclusive

weddings and events

927 10th Street • Modesto • CA 209.451.2292 www.downtowncentury.com @downtowncentury

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flavors

Xaviers Grove

By VIRGINIA STILL

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“We are casual dining but we do try to make sure that our food is top notch. We try to make sure you get your money’s worth.”

Sundays they are open outh of Turlock for breakfast, lunch and on State Route dinner and during duck 165 in a small hunting season they serve town called Stevinson is breakfast on Saturdays as a hidden gem restaurant well. Chef Aldo Quiroz called Xaviers Grove has been with them since Restaurant and Bar that the beginning and has has fine dining opassisted in creating the tions without the white menu. He is the main tablecloth. dinner chef and runs the Stevinson Ranch was grill along with a few once a golf course that other cooks throughout had a restaurant called the week to make sure The Grove Bar and Grill the quality of food is top several years ago. Tony notch and consistent.

Xavier took over ownerA customer favorite at ship of the restaurant as the Grove is pizza made a one-year trial business right on the grill outside venture with his now with a variety of toppings. ex-wife. The business The sandwiches and burgfizzled out along with the ers are also a hit. marriage but it turned The American cuisine around when Xavier’s — Lauren Xavier with an emphasis on daughter Lauren purbeing somewhat of a chased it in 2016. steakhouse has guests coming back for Although there have been several their Choice Certified Angus New York, challenges, including the pandemic Ribeye, and Cowboy Cut steaks along and a current labor shortage, the Grove with all the fixings. They offer lobster tail has managed to survive and continues on Fridays and Saturdays for those that to bring locals, ranchers, cattlemen, may want that surf and turf. hunters, travelers and guests of all kinds The 7 oz. loin lamb chops with rosea variety of tasty options like linguini, mary and garlic served with a red wine pan seared salmon, jambalaya, grilled reduction and two sides and the French chicken, lamb chops, salads, sandwiches, cut New Zealand rack of lamb have been wraps, burgers, and hand-cut choice top sellers. certified angus beef.

“A lot of people come back for the “The menu originally got started with lamb and our steaks,” added Lauren. “We me and my ex-wife,” said Tony. “Since actually for probably about a year now Lauren took it over, she has refined it have always had done lamb chops but in conjunction with us. The menu is we added rack of lamb to the menu and escalated and made things I think more that has done really well. We have a lot appealing to the general public.” of people that come back time and time The restaurant is open seven days again for that.” a week for lunch and dinner and on 209MAGAZINE.COM

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The Grove may be tucked back in an area a little off the beaten path but they serve people from all over the 209. And while the offerings sound like a fine dining, white tablecloth establishment make no mistake; they are a casual, family restaurant.

“In general, we focus on more of a causal type atmosphere,” stated Lauren. “We have local ranchers and cattlemen that come in during the day covered in dust and dirt and people that come in for dinner that are a little more put together.

We are casual dining but we do try to make sure that our food is top notch. We try to make sure you get your money’s worth.”

Xavier’s Grove celebrates its fiveyear anniversary this August. ●

IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: XAVIERS GROVE RESTAURANT AND BAR 2700 Van Clief Road Stevinson, CA CONTACT: 209-410-7707 HOURS: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. to midnight Friday & Saturday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday

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flavors

By VIRGINIA STILL

PHOTOS BY VIRGINIA STILL/ 209 Magazine

T

he Brass Tap Craft Beer Bar offers a smorgasbord options for craft beer lovers with 60 beers on tap, along with wine, cider and a full bar.

Rick and Kathy Sousa opened the highly anticipated Modesto establishment in April and were pleasantly surprised by the excitement and participation from the public. They opened at 11 a.m. and every seat in the house was filled, including those on the patio, the entire day.

“Modesto was ready to go out,” said Kathy. “We were really busy.

We quickly discovered that there was a lot of anticipation and euphoria around our opening. There was nothing like it.”

Some best sellers offered at the Brass Tap on tap are the Ace

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Pineapple Cider, Indigeny Reserve Blackberry Hard Cider, Allagash Curieux, Delirium Tremens, Coronado Orange Avenue Shandy, Golden Road Mango Cart, Almanac Love Hazy IPA, East Brother Red IPA, Dust Bowl Taco Truck Lager, Coronado Salty Crew Blonde Ale, Goose Island Bourbon County Brand Stout 2019, Lost Coast Tangerine Wheat, and an import Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier, to name a few.

“We live in a region that likes their light refreshing beers and given our climate, our lighter lagers and pilsners move. But there has been a lot of following of the hazy IPA section so the ones that are a little bit more New England style with a different type of hop combination and not as bitter,

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those are doing extremely well,” said Rick. “We carry local breweries here. We try to support our local breweries. There are a lot of great breweries in California so we are very lucky.”

They also offer an assortment of bottles and cans in a variety of styles including brown ales, ciders, classic Belgian, dark lagers, gluten friendly, lighter ales, Pale Ales, porter, sours, and stouts.

“The Brass Tap is about putting the right beer, in the right glass, at the right temperature with the right pour,” said Kathy. “It is very important and we train all our employees to treat beer with respect by putting it in the right glass.” ● 209MAGAZINE.COM

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IF YOU GO GETTING THERE: THE BRASS TAP CRAFT BEER BAR 4500 Dale Road, Suite A Modesto, CA CONTACT: www.brasstapbeerbar.com/Modesto 209-567-2075 HOURS: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday

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flavors

The Local Grape

By KRISTINA HACKER

T

tourism and Medlock believes Mariposa should take its place among those such as Napa, Sonoma and Murphys. In fact, Medlock is championing the creation of the nonprofit Mariposa Wine Alliance to promote the region and attract new wineries, vineyards, and, of course, visitors to the area. He also hopes to one day open his very own winery to add to the Mariposa County wine industry.

In the meantime, he will continue to promote local wines through his tasting room and bottle shop, with selections rotating regularly. ●

he Local Grape, Mariposa’s new bottle shop, is exactly what its name implies — a place to find and taste locally grown and made wines.

The wine bar and bottle shop specializes in wines of Mariposa County and the entire Sierra Foothills American Viticultural Area.

Travis Medlock opened the shop this past spring — amidst the starts and stops of COVID — seeing a need for Mariposa and foothills made wines to receive the promotion they deserve. Other areas of the state are well-known for wine

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Butterfly Creek 2016 Merlot Estate Reserve

The Gerken family arrived in Mariposa in 1972, and have been developing their family vineyards ever since. The 2016 Merlot features rich flavors of blackberry fruit, oak and a hint of vanilla. This estate reserve wine is smooth and mellow and a real crowd pleaser.

Casto Oaks 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon

Casto Oaks has six acres of vineyards located in Mariposa.

The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon won the Best of Class in the 2020 San Francisco Chroanicle’s Wine Competition. This full-bodied wine features tastes of vanilla, ripe cherries, blackberries, black currants and cedar.

Rauch Ranch Zinfandel Red Table Wine

Rauch Ranch Vineyards and Winery grows and processes wine grapes on their 15-acre Mariposa vineyard. Varieties include: Zinfandel, Viognier, Petite Syrah, Syrah, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and port varieties.

WHAT: The Local Grape, tasting room and bottle shop

IF YOU GO

WHERE: 5021 CA-140, Mariposa HOURS: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Wednesday and Thursday; closed on Monday CONTACT: thelocalgrape.com 209-966-9463

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feature

By VIRGINIA STILL

T

ties and began working with the City of Modesto to determine how they could relaunch the Graffiti summer and all the festivities.

“At the end of March we were looking at August as a potential time,” said Aaronson. “The car clubs all looked at the master calendars throughout the west and then we found dates that might work, made a proposal to the City of Modesto that they tentatively accepted pending any other government restrictions, and they have been great to work with. It has been a regular and consistent process amongst all of us for several months getting ready for Graffiti summer again and then we have added a lot of special events around it as well.”

Kicking off the festivities will be the annual Graffiti Classic Car Show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 15, presented by MASRA at the McHenry Village Shopping Center. At 2 p.m. that day there will be a showing of the classic film “American Graffiti” at the State Theatre.

Mid-Valley Chevy Club Park ‘n Shine will be held at multiple locations, on Aug. 16 at the Century Center in downtown

he pandemic may have stalled last year’s festivities but local car clubs, vendors and other participants are revving up for Graffiti Summer 2021 in Modesto. The annual extravaganza returns to downtown Modesto with the same traditional festivities and a few new ones. Fans and families can enjoy classic cars from many car clubs including: Modesto Area Street Rod Association, MidValley Chevy Club, the Faros, and many others. The efforts that they put into their vehicles are always on point. From sleek lines, roaring motors, polish and wax jobs; their hard work and pride will be on display for all to appreciate.

There was a collaboration of different groups that met in January to discuss the possibility of hosting a Graffiti summer this year and what that would look like including the Graffiti parade and festival chairs, the North Modesto Kiwanis Club, Visit Modesto, MASRA, and Mid-Valley Chevy Club.

Visit Modesto’s CEO Todd Aaronson explained that in March they really started looking at dates to hold the festivi-

Music is a huge part of Modesto culture and they are contemplating a music festival for free in downtown Modesto slated on Aug. 28.

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Modesto; on Aug. 17 at Vintage Faire Mall; on Aug. 18 at Cool Hand Luke’s in Riverbank; and on Aug. 19 at 10th Street Plaza. For more information and times visit www.midvalleychevy.com.

Moband will host a concert in the park once again. Admission is free for guests at the Mancini Bowl at Graceada Park from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 18.

On Aug. 19 there will be a Cruise Walk of Fame Celebration in downtown Modesto.

The North Modesto Kiwanis Classic Car Parade will cruise through downtown Modesto on Aug. 20. The parade will feature a multitude of classic cars, hot rods, and street rods and starts at 5:30 p.m. On Aug. 21 and Aug. 22 the club will host their annual American Graffiti car show at the Modesto Municipal Golf Course from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A new event added to the lineup of festivities is the Furiously Fast Weekend starting on Aug. 26 through Aug. 29 at the State Theatre. The first eight films of the “Fast and Furious” franchise will be shown over the four days for one price.

For more information, visit furiouslyfastweekend.com.

“So it is one price, eight films four days,” noted Aaronson.

“People will be able to buy a pass for the whole weekend and go to any movie they want or all the movies or they can buy each movie individually depending on what their speed is.

Then we are working with other car clubs to do pop ups that weekend with contemporary cars and much more energetic modern vehicles attracting a different car audience, but a lot of car audiences crossover.”

The “Grease” sing-a-long tradition returns to the State Theatre from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 28.

Music is a huge part of Modesto culture and they are contemplating a music festival for free in downtown Modesto slated on Aug. 28 as an added event during the Furiously Fast weekend.

Aaronson has been the CEO with Visit Modesto for the past two years but has participated in the Graffiti summer for the past 16 years.

“Modesto is a community made up of a lot of different things,” said Aaronson. “Our history is vast from agriculture to car culture to river rafting to murals and celebrating each component of what makes Modesto great is critically important not just for our community but to tell the world.” ● The calendar is being updated on a regular basis so for more information visit americangraffitifestival.com or graffitisummerclassic.com.

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By SABRA STAFFORD

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This is a ritual that will play out over and over again each weekend and will come to symbolize a moment of youthful innocence and possibilities that will be immortalized in Modesto native George Lucas’ film “American Graffiti.” In doing so, Modesto’s future will be linked with cars and cruising for decades to come.

Modesto has had its ups and downs with cruising in the past, but has come to embrace this slice of American culture and now celebrates it annually with Graffiti summer.

The 2021 American Graffiti Festival & Car Show, the oldest and largest of Modesto’s Graffiti-related celebrations, will be Aug. 20 to 22, and will feature hundreds of classic cars in a Friday evening parade downtown and on McHenry and a Saturday and Sunday car show and music festival at the Modesto Muni Golf Course at Tuolumne Boulevard and Roselawn Avenue.

This is the 22nd year for the event, sponsored and organized by the Kiwanis Club of North Modesto.

Net proceeds go to local youth programs.

The show is expected to draw more than 1,000 classic cars and trucks – 1979 and earlier – from throughout the West.

The weekend opens at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 20 with a parade on downtown streets and out McHenry Avenue and back. Because of congestion in previous parades and changes in downtown streets, this year’s parade is limited to the first 800 car show registrants. Street closures will begin about 3:30 p.m.

Aug. 20.

Fewer cars should mean the parade moves along steadily, explained Brent Burnside, festival chairman. “We know the owners want to ‘cruise’ the route more than once, and the spectators want to see as many of these beautiful vehicles as possible. We hope this will make it a better parade for everyone.”

There is no limit on entries for the Aug. 21 and 22

icture the scene: A warm Saturday night in Modesto.

Dusk is approaching and the downtown shops and offices have locked up and turned the signs in their windows from open to closed. Maybe in the distance you can hear the low rumble of an engine as the car makes its way to 10th Street. It won’t be long before this is the domain of teenagers cruising a circuit along 10th and 11th streets, yelling out to one another as the cars slowly pass by with the sound of Rock n’ Roll lofting out the car radios and providing the night’s soundtrack. Likely, before the cruise comes to an end, the flirting between one car full of girls and another full of boys will end with both cars parked at Burge’s drive-in.

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GRAFFITI USA CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM

Modesto attraction will celebrate cruising and classic autos

By SABRA STAFFORD

M

odesto’s perhaps most celebrated claim to fame is George Lucas’ “American Graffiti” and its homage to classic cars and cruising.

The annual Graffiti Festival draws in revelers near and far for car shows, concerts and cruising. Soon, that celebration of Americana won’t be just for a short time in summer, but rather can be marked all year long when the Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum opens its doors.

The board of directors for the museum and their volunteers are planning on having at least a portion of the museum open at the start of October.

Down the line when the museum is completely finished it will be an immersive experience that will include a replica of downtown Modesto storefronts circa 1940s-1960s, a working radio station, a classic 1950s diner serving a simple menu, and a record store. The museum also will have an event and catering kitchen, a gift shop, exhibits and memorabilia on automotive and Modesto history, and an educational component on the evolution of engines.

“Memorabilia is what really gives a museum its personality,” said Graffiti

USA Museum Board President John Sanders.

Of course, the real stars of the museum will be the hundreds of classic automobiles that will be on display.

“The classic cars and pickups that will be in the museum will all be customized and that will make them different from any other cars in the world,” said Sanders.

“The customized work is what makes them so special and unique.”

The idea of having a museum to celebrate Modesto’s cruising history has been one kicked around for years, but really started to take shape when the old Warden’s Office building came up for sale and the museum board opted to buy it a year ago.

“The stars just aligned,” Sanders said.

The space is 45,000 square feet over two connected buildings with five large rooms. Located at 610 9th Street, the location is less than a mile from the original Burge’s Drive In, which was the traditional turning point of the cruise in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

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a trek to San Francisco and Yosemite.

It’s also believed the museum will be an economic driver for Modesto. In fact, it’s a goal stated in the museum board’s mission statement.

“Our Mission is to grow the attraction of Modesto as a destination for events, entertainment, vacations, and tours while capitalizing on the nostalgia and Modesto’s cultural history celebrating Modesto’s love affair with the automobile.”

The board has already been given some Modesto memorabilia and a few vehicles have also been donated to the organization.

“We are seeing a real positive response from the community and we haven’t even really started any outreach efforts yet,” Sanders said.

The Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum has a nine member board, a council of advisors with 13 members and a 22-person committee helping get the work done.

“Everyone is excited to see it come together,” Sanders said. ● For more information visit graffitiusamuseum.com.

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Academics

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Winners

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START TODAY. TO BE MORE TOMORROW. Proudly serving the community for 20 years!

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We are grateful to be selected by our community We grateful towinner. be selected our community as aare “Best of 209” Thisby honor recognizes as “Best ofcommitment 209” winner.toThis honor recognizes oura strong provide our students We are grateful to be selected by our community our commitment to provide our students withstrong a high-quality education and University as a “Best of 209” winner.

This honor recognizes with a high-quality experience that willeducation serve themand forUniversity life. our strong commitment provide experience that will servetothem for our life. students Learn about our commitment to with amore high-quality education and University Learn more about commitment to student success atour www.csustan.edu. experience that will serve them for life. student success at www.csustan.edu.

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Large Animal Supplies

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THANK YOU!

FOR VOTING US THE BEST GROOMER IN THE 209 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021

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Voted

BEST FARM TO FORK Thank you for your Vote!

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.

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

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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, Banana, Eggnog, Pumpkin spice, and always trying new ones.

2020 has been a unique year all around.

In May we ran a limited run of Horchata Flavor Milk.

Then we celebrated our 5yr Anniversary in June with a Limited Edition Bottle and Birthday Cake Flavor Milk. Keep a lookout for other fun flavors in the future.

Why glass bottle?

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

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Automotive Repair

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209 TINT SHOP SILVER

MERCEDES BENZ OF MODESTO BRONZE

BEST RV, TURLOCK BRONZE

Motorcycle Shop

Smog

CAR AUDIO DEPOT, MODESTO GOLD

VINTAGE CAR WASH, MODESTO GOLD

SMITH CHEVROLET CADILLAC, TURLOCK GOLD

HONDA KAWASAKI AND KTM OF MODESTO GOLD BROKEN WHEEL CUSTOM CYCLES, OAKDALE SILVER MITCHELL’S MODESTO HARLEY DAVIDSON BRONZE

BALSWICK’S GOLD

LUXURY LIMO GOLD

DONS RV CENTER, CERES GOLD

BALSWICK’S GOLD

MID VALLEY WINDOW TINTING, TURLOCK GOLD

EXCLUSIVE GLASS TINTING, TRACY BRONZE

BALSWICK’S GOLD IN SHAPE SMOG CHECK, MANTECA SILVER STANISLAUS SMOG 2, INC BRONZE

209MAGAZINE.COM

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FRANCISCO’S TOWING, INC. GOLD

74

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:24:05 AM

SINCE 1954 Thank you for voting for us We work with All Insurance Companies We Can Handle Your Claim For You LIFETIME Guarantee On All Repairs Performed!

We Service All Makes & Models!

Voted Bronze for Auto Body Shop 209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 75

Call Today (209) 634-3031

115 Florence St., Turlock, CA www.SmithCollsionCenter.com

7/29/2021 6:24:05 AM

95 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE IN TURLOCK

2021

A Family Tradition for 95 Years

VOTED FIRST PLACE

AUTO DEALERSHIP (NEW) & AUTO DEALERSHIP (USED) Thank you for your votes!

Home of the SMITH FAMILY LIFETIME WARRANTY New & Preowned vehicles limited power train, see dealer for details

RIGHT OFF THE FREEWAY, RIGHT ON THE PRICE • 1601 AUTO MALL DRIVE, TURLOCK

CALL US TODAY! 209.632.3946

www.SmithChevroletCadillac.com • www.SmithCadillac.com

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7/29/2021 6:24:16 AM

95 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE IN TURLOCK

2021

A Family Tradition for 95 Years

VOTED FIRST PLACE LUXURY AUTO Thank you for your votes!

RIGHT OFF THE FREEWAY, RIGHT ON THE PRICE • 1601 AUTO MALL DRIVE, TURLOCK

CALL US TODAY! 209.632.3946

www.SmithChevroletCadillac.com • www.SmithCadillac.com

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7/29/2021 6:24:17 AM

VOTED BEST AUTO DETAIL IN 209

Slam dunk.

Combine Home & Auto.

Save up to $894* a year with the right combination of home and auto. It’s just another way I’m here to help life go right.™ CALL TODAY.

Dee Hernandez, Agent

A “BIG THANK YOU” TO ALL OUR EXISTING, NEW AND WEEKLY CUSTOMERS, YOUR LOYALTY KEEPS OUR WHEELS MOVING.

Insurance Lic#: 0676030 2101 Geer Road Turlock, CA 95382 Bus: 209-667-1217 Hablamos Español *Average household savings based on 2016 national survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm®.

Reliable. Safe.

Respectful.

https://www.deehernandez.com/quote ®

209-499-9268 Email: Alex.AngelsLowbed@yahoo.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

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State Farm, Bloomington, IL

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:24:26 AM

!

9 0 2 , u o Y k n Tha

• Chips, Dents & Scratches

• All Insurance Accepted

• Custom Paint Jobs & Restoration

• Fixed Right and Right On Time The First Time!

• Major Collision Work - Body, Frame & Mechanical Repair

• iCar Certifi ed

BONANDER BODY & PAINT WAS JUST VOTED BEST AUTO BODY SHOP IN THE 209 AREA CODE BY THE READERS OF 209 MAGAZINE. IT’SA TREMENDOUS HONOR TO WIN THIS AWARD. WE WILL CONTINUE TO STRIVE TO EXCEED OUR CUSTOMER’S EXPECTATIONS EVERY DAY OF EVERY YEAR!

Serving the Valley Since 1946

New & Used Vehicles • Trucks • Trailers • Parts & Service BUICK, GMC & PREOWNED 231 S. Center Street Turlock

209/250-3613

TRUCK & TRAILER SALES 4520 N. Golden State Turlock

209/250-3883

See Our Entire Inventory Of Vehicles & Trailers Online 24/7...

For Vehicles bonanderbuickgmc.com | For Trailers bonandertrailer.com

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Beverages

Winners

Bar / Pub

Coffee House

Local Craft Beer

DUST BOWL BREWING CO. SILVER

CULTURE COFFEE BAR SILVER

DUST BOWL BREWING CO. SILVER

MORGAN TERRITORY BREWING BRONZE

GIACOMO’S BRONZE

BLAKER BREWING BRONZE

Bartender

Espresso Bar

Margarita

OLDE TYME PASTRIES, TURLOCK SILVER

EL RANCHITO, RIVERBANK SILVER

GIACOMO’S BRONZE

CAFE BRAVO, OAKDALE BRONZE

Gastropub

Milkshakes

DYING BREED BREWERY GOLD

WYNDY @ MORGAN TERRITORY BREWING GOLD ERIN @ JAMS 209 TURLOCK SILVER LUKE @ THE GRAND OAK BRONZE

Beer Tap Room

DUST BOWL BREWING CO. GOLD DYING BREED BREWERY, OAKDALE SILVER BLAKER BREWING BRONZE

Cocktails

DIVINE SWINE, MODESTO GOLD CHURCHKEY SILVER EL AGAVE AZUL, HUGHSON BRONZE

ALISON’S CAFÉ HOUSE GOLD

RIPON COFFEE HOUSE GOLD

DIVINE SWINE, MODESTO GOLD COMMONWEALTH, MODESTO SILVER DUST BOWL BREWING CO. BRONZE

Happy Hour

TWISTED PIG, MODESTO GOLD DIVINE SWINE, MODESTO SILVER JAMS@209 BRONZE

TORII JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE, MODESTO GOLD THE UDDER PLACE, TURLOCK SILVER RIDGWAYS, MODESTO BRONZE

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AGAVE AZUL, HUGHSON GOLD

GILLMAN’S CLASSIC DRIVE-IN, OAKDALE GOLD SNO-WHITE DRIVE IN SILVER ROBERTS FERRY GOURMET NUT COMPANY BRONZE

Protein Shakes

GIACOMO’S ESPRESSO GOLD JAMBA JUICE SILVER VIP NUTRITION, OAKDALE BRONZE

Karaoke Bar

209MAGAZINE.COM

DYING BREED BREWING GOLD

Smoothies

GREEN GRUB, TURLOCK GOLD DUTCH BROS COFFEE SILVER GIACOMO’S ESPRESSO BRONZE

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:24:28 AM

Sports Bar JURA’S PIZZA GOLD

108 CLUB, RIVERBANK SILVER JAMS@209, TURLOCK BRONZE

WINERY DELICATO FAMILY VINEYARDS GOLD GALLO WINERY SILVER OAK FARM, LODI BRONZE

Wine Bar

CAMP 4, MODESTO GOLD STEWART & JASPER SILVER MOST WANTED WINE BAR, OAKDALE BRONZE

Wine List

CAMP 4, MODESTO GOLD STEWART & JASPER SILVER BISTRO 234, TURLOCK BRONZE

Wine Tasting

STEWART & JASPER GOLD CAMP 4 SILVER IRONSTONE VINEYARDS, MURPHYS BRONZE

209MAGAZINE.COM

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:24:38 AM

THANK YOU, 209!

Caricatures

turlo

LOCALLY

ic

chan

ck me

Turlock | Monterey toonin@toonskwad.com

you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you

you

deserve the award for best customers. thank you for your love and support.

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Community

Winners

Annual Festival or Event

Farmers Market

Flea Market

COYOTES CUP OF KINDNESS COFFEE CART SILVER

MODESTO FARMERS MARKET SILVER

EAST AVE FLEA MARKET TURLOCK SILVER

FUNKY MARKET 209 BRONZE

LODI FARMERS MARKET BRONZE

CROWS LANDING FLEA MARKET BRONZE

Community Involved Business

Favorite Local Hero

Hall Rental

LODI GRAPE FESTIVAL, LODI GOLD

NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT GOLD F&M BANK SILVER TURLOCK DENTAL CARE BRONZE

TURLOCK CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET, TURLOCK GOLD

GALT FLEA MARKET GOLD

ED YONAN GOLD

CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER, TURLOCK GOLD

ADRIAN HARRELL SILVER

MRPS, MANTECA SILVER

MODESTO POLICE DEPARTMENT BRONZE

THE CENTURY, MODESTO BRONZE

Community Organization JESSICA’S HOUSE GOLD

SAINT MATTHEW CATHOLIC CHURCH, CERES SILVER GIVE EVERY CHILD A CHANCE, MANTECA BRONZE

Event Venue

THE CENTURY, MODESTO GOLD

Continuing to provide the BEST lifestyle and top quality care for our seniors 7 years in a row and counting!

PAGEO LAVENDER FARM, TURLOCK SILVER CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER, TURLOCK BRONZE

Call today to schedule a tour!

(209) 236-1900 www.StratfordBP.com 3529 Forest Glenn Dr. Modesto, CA 95355 RCFE# 507002509

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Community

Winners

Locally-Owned Business

Place to Work

NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT SILVER

NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT SILVER

F&M BANK BRONZE

F&M BANK BRONZE

Memory Care Facility

Radio Personality

EL RIO MEMORY CARE SILVER

ROMAN ON THE RIVER - KRVR 105.5 SILVER

ABILITY MORTGAGE/AMBECK MORTGAGE GOLD

CASA DE MODESTO GOLD

COVENANT VILLAGE, TURLOCK BRONZE

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY GOLD

DJ WALKER, KAT KOUNTRY 103 GOLD

MADDEN AND RILEY- KHOP BRONZE

Radio Station KRVR 105.5 GOLD

KAT COUNTRY 103.3 SILVER KHOP 95.1 BRONZE

Senior Assisted Care

COVENANT VILLAGE, TURLOCK GOLD BETHANY HOME, RIPON SILVER SAMARITAN VILLAGE, HUGHSON BRONZE

Museum

MCHENRY MANSION GOLD MANTECA HISTORICAL MUSEUM SILVER CASTLE AIR MUSEUM BRONZE

Place of Worship / Church

SAINT MATTHEW CATHOLIC CHURCH, CERES GOLD

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE #1 MEMORY CARE COMMUNITY! Come visit our Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care apartment homes today and see the Cogir difference for yourself.

CROSSROADS CHURCH TURLOCK SILVER BIG VALLEY GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH BRONZE

430 N Union Rd., Manteca, CA 95337 Lic # 392700473

(209) 823-0164 CogirSeniorLiving.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Senior Living Community

Wedding Venue

COVENANT VILLAGE, TURLOCK SILVER

CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER, TURLOCK SILVER

PRESTIGE SENIOR LIVING BRONZE

OAK FARM WINERY, LODI BRONZE

COGIR OF MANTECA GOLD

PAGEO LAVENDER FARM, TURLOCK GOLD

Senior Retirement Community THE PARK AT MODESTO GOLD

COVENANT VILLAGE, TURLOCK SILVER THE STRATFORD AT BEYER PARK, MODESTO BRONZE

“GOLD SENIOR ASSISTED CARE” “SILVER SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY & SILVER SENIOR RETIREMENT COMMUNITY”

Thank you for voting us best!

Experience first-hand the Covenant Living difference. Call (877) 364-1459, or visit CovLivingTurlock.org.

2125 N. Olive Avenue • Turlock, CA

Covenant Living is a ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church.

209MAGAZINE.COM

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:25:04 AM

A A RO N & J U DY KO E L SC H

CEO — PRES I DE NT & PRI NCI PAL DES IG N E R

Thank You For Voting Us...

C D

B E ST SE N IOR RETIRE M E NT COM MUN IT Y

R c t

th

theparkatmodesto.com / (209) 545-1378

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L U X U R Y, R E S O R T- S T Y L E L I V I N G

The Suite Life

Culinary Delicacies

All The Fun None Of The Chores

Remarkable Experiences

Regionally inspired, chef-prepared dishes sure to satisfy every tastebud.

Let us handle the day-to-day obligations while you enjoy life!

Laugh with friends, shop ‘til you drop, or travel the world, it’s all up to you.

(209) 437-8268

theparkatmodesto.com / 2832 Health Care Way / Modesto, CA

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 87

Reserve your suite today.

7/29/2021 6:26:22 AM

88

Thank You For Voting Us!

Golfing & Social Memberships Weddings | Private Events

1st Place: Wedding Venue

209.632.5052

info@pageolavederfarm.com 11573 Golf Link Rd. Turlock CA Pageolavenderfarm.com

Thank you for voting us your Favorite!

Banquet Facility - GOLD, Country Club - Silver 1580 Spring Creek Drive, Ripon

209-599-3258

www.springcreekcc.com

Award winnning senior community located in the heart of Ripon. We’re here when you need it most.

Request information or schedule a tour at: 209-599-4221 • bethanyripon.org • 930 W. Main Street, Ripon 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Dining

Winners

Appetizers

Brunch

Chef

SAVOR CHARCUTERIE SILVER

LOZA WINE & CREPES SILVER

CHEF ROB @ DIVINE SWINE SILVER

FOOD FIX BUTCHER AND BAKER BRONZE

LA MO CAFE, TURLOCK BRONZE

JOHN SURLA BRONZE

Asian Restaurant

Buffet

Chinese Cuisine

RAW SUSHI BISTRO, MODESTO SILVER

SIZZLER SILVER

DAVE WONG’S, STOCKTON SILVER

JUJU THAI, TURLOCK BRONZE

KOBE SUSHI BUFFET BRONZE

CHONG’S CUISINE, TURLOCK BRONZE

Bakery

Cake / Cupcake Shop

Crepes

VILLAGE BAKING CO SILVER

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES SILVER

LOZA WINE & CREPES SILVER

RIPON COFFEE BRONZE

BOHO BUTTERCREAM BRONZE

CAFE ROME, TURLOCK BRONZE

Bar-B-Q

Caterer

Deli

CAMP 4, MODESTO GOLD

DAVE WONG’S, STOCKTON GOLD

OLDE TYME PASTRIES, TURLOCK GOLD

DIVINE SWINE, MODESTO GOLD BIG VICS BBQ, TURLOCK SILVER THE VILLAGE BUTCHER BRONZE

Breakfast Spot

VELVET GRILL AND CREAMERY, MODESTO GOLD CAHOOTS CORNER CAFÉ, OAKDALE SILVER MY GARDEN CAFE BRONZE

GET TOASTED GOLD

THE FRUIT YARD, MODESTO GOLD

OLDE TYME PASTRIES, TURLOCK GOLD

FAGUNDES MEATS & CATERING INC, MANTECA GOLD DIVINE SWINE, MODESTO SILVER FOOD FIX TRUCK, MODESTO BRONZE

SAVOR CHARCUTERIE GOLD THE WILD NECTAR SILVER

THE CREPERIE, TURLOCK GOLD

FERRARESE’S DELI, OAKDALE GOLD THE VILLAGE BUTCHER SILVER FOOD FIX BRONZE

VILLAGE BAKING, MODESTO GOLD OLDE TYME PASTRIES, TURLOCK SILVER SUPERMOMS FROZEN YOGURT & MORE BRONZE

CAMP 4 BRONZE

89

BEIJING RESTAURANT GOLD

Desserts

Charcuterie

209MAGAZINE.COM

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HANK OLSON @ FOOD FIX TRUCK GOLD

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:26:49 AM

Dining

Dinner

BISTRO 234, TURLOCK GOLD TOSCANA’S RISTORANTE, TURLOCK SILVER REDWOOD CAFE, MODESTO BRONZE

Dog Friendly

DIVINE SWINE, MODESTO GOLD THE BOATHOUSE AT RIVER ISLANDS SILVER DUST BOWL BREWING CO. BRONZE

Donuts

MR. T’S DONUTS, MODESTO GOLD FAIL’S DONUTS, TURLOCK SILVER WE DONUT SHOP, MODESTO BRONZE

Farm to Fork Restaurant

THE VINE HOUSE, RIPON GOLD LA MO CAFE, TURLOCK SILVER FOOD FIX BRONZE

French Fries

IN-N-OUT BURGER GOLD FUZIO UNIVERSAL BISTRO, MODESTO SILVER

Winners THE VILLAGE BUTCHER BRONZE

LA MO CAFE, TURLOCK SILVER

Friday Date Night

CAMP 4 WINE CAFÉ BRONZE

TOSCANA’S RISTORANTE, TURLOCK GOLD CHEFS OF NEW YORK SILVER CAMP 4, MODESTO BRONZE

Friendliest Restaurant FIRENZE, OAKDALE GOLD

MAIN STREET FOOTERS, TURLOCK GOLD THE VILLAGE BUTCHER SILVER GRAFFITI DOG BRONZE

Hot Wings

THE VILLAGE BUTCHER SILVER CAMP 4, MODESTO BRONZE

Greek Restaurant PAPAPAVLOS BISTRO GOLD

SKEWERS, MODESTO SILVER PAPACHINOS, MODESTO BRONZE

Hamburger

BACKWOODS BURGERS, OAKDALE GOLD DIVINE SWINE, MODESTO SILVER

JURA’S PIZZA GOLD

CHUCK’S PLACE SILVER WING STOP BRONZE

Ice Cream

ICE CREAM EMPORIUM, RIPON GOLD OAK BARREL, TURLOCK SILVER THE ICE CREAM COMPANY, MODESTO BRONZE

Indian Cuisine

TANDOORI GRILL, MANTECA GOLD

THE VILLAGE BUTCHER BRONZE

NAGINA PALACE, TURLOCK SILVER

Healthy Eating

INDIA BISTRO, MODESTO BRONZE

DREAM DINNERS, MODESTO GOLD

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Hot Dog

90

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:26:50 AM

Italian Cuisine

Pizza

Salad

ANGELINI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT, TURLOCK SILVER

HELLA PIE PIZZA CO. SILVER

BRIGHTER SIDE, MODESTO SILVER

BOB’S TAKE-N-BAKE PIZZA BRONZE

DAVE WONG’S, STOCKTON BRONZE

Pizza - Gluten Free

Sandwich

GOLD DUST PIZZA, OAKDALE SILVER

THE VILLAGE BUTCHER SILVER

PAPA MURPHY’S BRONZE

FIORI’S BUTCHER SHOP, LODI BRONZE

BELLA ITALIA, MODESTO GOLD

VITO’S RISTORANTE, TURLOCK BRONZE

Japanese / Sushi

RAW SUSHI BISTRO, MODESTO GOLD SUSHI CUISINE, TURLOCK SILVER OSAKA SUSHI, MODESTO BRONZE

Lunch

THE VILLAGE BUTCHER GOLD HARVEST MOON, MODESTO SILVER FOOD FIX TRUCK, MODESTO BRONZE

Mexican Cuisine

AGAVE AZUL, HUGHSON GOLD ESMERALDA, RIPON SILVER EL JARDIN, TURLOCK BRONZE

Outdoor Dining

DUST BOWL BREWING CO. GOLD BOB’S AT THE MARINA, STOCKTON SILVER REDWOOD CAFE, MODESTO BRONZE

PIZZA PLUS, RIPON GOLD

BOB’S TAKE-N-BAKE PIZZA GOLD

FERRARESE’S DELI, OAKDALE GOLD

Pizza - Take N Bake BOB’S TAKE-N-BAKE PIZZA GOLD DEAN’S PIZZA, TURLOCK SILVER PAPA MURPHY’S BRONZE

Restaurant Service CAMP 4, MODESTO GOLD

VITO’S RISTORANTE, TURLOCK SILVER DIVINE SWINE, MODESTO BRONZE

Romantic Restaurant REDWOOD CAFE, MODESTO GOLD GALLETTO RISTORANTE, MODESTO SILVER VERONA’S BRONZE

209MAGAZINE.COM

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HARVEST MOON, MODESTO GOLD

91

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Winners

Dining

Seafood

Taco

Thai Cuisine

BISTRO 234, TURLOCK SILVER

AGAVE AZUL SILVER

JUJU THAI, TURLOCK SILVER

RAW SUSHI BISTRO, MODESTO BRONZE

LA PARILLA, RIVERBANK/ MODESTO BRONZE

THAI HOUSE BRONZE

OHANA SEAFOOD GOLD

Steakhouse

ELEGANT BULL RESTAURANT, DELHI GOLD REDWOOD CAFE, MODESTO SILVER THE VILLAGE BUTCHER BRONZE

SILVAS TACO TRUCK, TURLOCK GOLD

Take-Out Food

MEDLEN’S HOUSE OF BEEF, OAKDALE GOLD THE VILLAGE BUTCHER SILVER BROTHERS, RIPON BRONZE

TASTY THAI, MODESTO GOLD

Upscale Dining

REDWOOD CAFE, MODESTO GOLD FINA BY JOHN SURLA, RIPON SILVER GALLETTO RISTORANTE, MODESTO BRONZE

FINDUS USON ON FIND

THANK YOU YOU FOR VOTING FOR THANK FOR US! US! TURLOCKJOURNAl JOURNAL READERS CHOICE YEARS TURlOcK BEST OFREADERS 209 5 YEAR’S cHOIcE IN A33ROW YEARS IN INAAROW! ROW!

SERVING AN ASSORTMENT OF SWEET AND SAVORY CREPES SERVING AN ASSORTMENT OF SWEET AND SAVORY CREPES WE LOVE AND APPRECIATE OUR CUSTOMERS! WE LOVE AND APPRECIATE ALLALL OF OF OUR CUSTOMERS!

MONDAY 8:00PM MONDAY-- SATURDAY SATURDAY 9:00AM 9:00AM -- 8:00PM SUNDAY 6:00PM SUNDAY9:00AM 9:00AM -- 6:00PM 1668 TURLOCK, CA. CA. 95380 95380 1668 COUNTRYSIDE COUNTRYSIDE DRIVE, DRIVE, TURLOCK, 209-850-9258 209-850-9258 745423_The_Creperie_RC_TJ_C_G12_V1 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Vegan / Vegetarian Restaurant THE FARMACY GOLD GOFRESH SILVER TNK VEGAN CAFE BRONZE

Yogurt

YOGURT MILL GOLD OODLES, MODESTO SILVER SUPERMOM’S, CERES BRONZE

Voted BEST Bakery & BEST Cake/Cupcake

Shop

Thank you to our amazing customers and loyal, hard working staff for making us the #1 Bakery in the 209

CELEBRATING OUR

40Th Anniversary 2225 Geer Rd., Turlock, CA

(209) 668-0928 otpastries.com

209MAGAZINE.COM

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209-239-5011

Thank you for Voting us #1

Sustainable Seafood Superior Service Family Values Thank You For Voting Us Best Seafood In The 209!

Indian Cuisine in the 209!

Tuesday - Friday 10 to 4 / Saturday 10 to 2

500 7th St. Modesto • (844) 696-4262 OHANASEAFOOD.NET

Party Trays Available.

515 Main St. Manteca, CA 95336

BUSINESS HOURS: Open 7 Days A Week 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM (Except The Last Monday Of Each Month)

Indoor and Outdoor Dining.

Serving Domestic, Imported Beer & Wine

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Thank You For Voting Us

Best Greek Restaurant In The 209!

We Love Serving You And Appreciate Your Support!

At Papapavlos; owner Valentin Alonso’s mission is to provide guests with the most authentic Mediterranean experience. Our restaurant has been designed specifically for the community we serve, and is open for lunch and dinner every day, welcoming large parties, private dining groups and special events! Using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, Papapavlos offers a wide variety of premium-quality Mediterranean food paired with great wines and cocktails in a beautiful setting located in Modesto California. Our Kitchen is supervised and guided by Executive Chef Roberto Santillan; using recipes and preparations that he mastered over the years by making great food.

Let Us Cater Your Next Event

1320 Standiford Ave, Suite 2, Modesto, CA 95350 • (209) 525-3995 • www.papapavlosmodesto.com

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WE ARE SO HONORED!

GRACIAS!

Thank you to our wonderful customers and staff for voting for us!

VOTED BEST • Mexican Cuisine • Margarita

Taco

Cocktails

Come and enjoy our award winning Mexican food & Cocktails

LUNCH - DINNER - WEEKEND BRUNCH

6724 E Whitmore Ave, Hughson, CA 95326 (209) 883-0800 agave-azul.com

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s

Beijing Restaurant We Appreciate your VOTE! Thanks for making the Beijing Restaurant #1 in the 209!

Serving our customers year after year is our goal.

Serving lunch and dinner ALWAYS A PLEASURE TO SERVE YOU! CHEF BENNY, MARIA AND STAFF.

Thanks for voting us THE BEST IN THE 209 FIVE YEARS IN A ROW!

Curbside pick up available

BEIJING RESTAURANT Call us for all Dining Updates

(209) 575-3528

3848 McHenry Ave, Modesto, CA 95356

Proudly serving the community for over 25 years.

Thank you for voting us BEST Desserts in the 209!

CAKES: Store, Custom, and Wedding Cakes PASTRIES: Macarons, Cupcakes, and Cookies Breakfast, Lunch, and Catering McHenry Village 1700 McHenry Ave. Modesto

209-522-9057

vbcmodesto@yahoo.com villagebakingcompany.com

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Entertainment

Art Gallery

THE CHARTREUSE MUSE, MODESTO GOLD GLITTER COVEN CABARET SILVER SERENDIPITY PAINT PARTIES & WORKSHOPS BRONZE

Banquet Facility

SPRING CREEK GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, RIPON GOLD PAGEO LAVENDER FARM, TURLOCK SILVER

Billiards

THE GRAND OAK BRONZE SHARKEY’S BILLIARDS, TURLOCK GOLD DIAMOND BILLIARDS, MODESTO SILVER

Winners Bowling Alley

MCHENRY BOWL, MODESTO GOLD 10 PINS SILVER

GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS, MODESTO GOLD THE GRAND OAK SILVER

YOSEMITE LANES BRONZE

SIERRA REPERTORY THEATRE BRONZE

Casino

BLACK OAK CASINO, TUOLUMNE CITY GOLD JACKSON RANCHERIA CASINO RESORT, JACKSON SILVER CHICKEN RANCH CASINO BRONZE

Indoor Event

QUANTUM ESCAPES GOLD THE GRAND OAK EVENT CENTER SILVER GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRONZE

Live Entertainment

Dance Club

CROCODILES NIGHTCLUB, MODESTO GOLD

IRONSTONE VINEYARDS, MURPHYS GOLD

THE UDDER PLACE, TURLOCK SILVER

GALLO CENTER FOR THE ARTS, MODESTO SILVER

THE BOARDROOM, MODESTO BRONZE

GLITTER COVEN CABARET BRONZE

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Entertainment Venue

98

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Live Theater

SIERRA REPERTORY THEATRE, SONORA GOLD TURLOCK COMMUNITY THEATRE SILVER PLAYHOUSE, MERCED BRONZE

Movie Theatre

GALAXY LUXURY+ THEATRE, RIVERBANK GOLD GO DRIVE-UP, TURLOCK SILVER STATE THEATRE BRONZE

Poker Room

ART TIME SIP WINE BRONZE TURLOCK POKER ROOM GOLD KINGS CARD CLUB SILVER

Tourist Attraction

DELL’OSSO FARMS, LATHROP GOLD PAGEO LAVENDER FARM, TURLOCK SILVER QUANTUM ESCAPES BRONZE

Outdoor Event

STANISLAUS COUNTY FAIR, TURLOCK GOLD

Thank you for voting us

BEST ART GALLERY

PAGEO LAVENDER FARM VENDOR DAY SILVER FIELDS OF ICE - OUTDOOR SEASONAL ICE SKATING, TURLOCK BRONZE

Paint & Sip Parties REMBRANDT & ROSÉ GOLD

SERENDIPITY PAINT, OAKDALE SILVER

GALLERY · ART SCHOOL · CL AY STUDIO

thechartreusemuse.com @chartreusemuse

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7/29/2021 6:27:49 AM

Family / Recreation

Winners

Boat Rentals

PINECREST LAKE MARINA GOLD RIVER JOURNEY ADVENTURES, KNIGHTS FERRY SILVER LAKE TULLOCH CAMPGROUND BRONZE

Boat Sales BOB’S MARINE GOLD

BOAT COUNTRY, RIPON SILVER

Gun Range DEL RIO COUNTRY CLUB BRONZE

Family Fun Venue

BARNWOOD ARMS, RIPON GOLD CALIFORNIA SHOOTING SPORTS SILVER

DUTCH HOLLOW FARMS, MODESTO GOLD

SWAMP RATS, NEWMAN BRONZE

QUANTUM ESCAPES SILVER

Kid-Friendly Restaurant

TEN PIN BOWLING ALLEY, TURLOCK BRONZE

JOHN’S INCREDIBLE PIZZA CO., MODESTO GOLD DUST BOWL BREWING CO. SILVER

C AND C MARINE BRONZE

Campground PINECREST GOLD

DON PEDRO SILVER LAKE MCCLURE BRONZE

Costume Rental

DAYDREAMS & NIGHTMARES GOLD PARTY CITY SILVER GRAND EVENTS, MODESTO BRONZE

Country Club

TURLOCK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB GOLD SPRING CREEK CC, RIPON SILVER

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LULU’S ICE CREAM PARLOR, TURLOCK BRONZE

Kid’s Birthday

ABOUT FACE - FACE PAINTING GOLD QUANTUM ESCAPES SILVER

Ski Rentals SUN SPORTS GOLD

SIERRA NEVADA ADVENTURE CO. SILVER

Ski Shop SUNSPORTS GOLD

ROCKIN’ JUMP, MODESTO BRONZE

Kid’s Fun

DELL’OSSO FARMS, LATHROP GOLD QUANTUM ESCAPES SILVER DUTCH HOLLOW FARMS BRONZE

Public Golf Course

CREEKSIDE GOLF COURSE GOLD RIVER OAKS GOLF & EVENT CENTER SILVER

Fall Craft Fair

ST. STANISLAUS GOLF COURSE BRONZE

September 18 9am - 3pm

River Rafting

Pumpkin Patch October 1 - October 31 Hours vary

RIVER JOURNEY ADVENTURES, KNIGHTS FERRY GOLD SUNSHINE RAFTING ADVENTURES KNIGHTS FERRY SILVER

Book your next birthday party or corporate event

dutchhollowfarms.com New Location 4524 Milnes Road, Modesto

209-287-6010 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Foothills / Mountains

Winners

Bed & Breakfast

Mountain Inn / Hotel

Mountain Shop

INN AT 161 SILVER

VICTORIA INN, MURPHYS SILVER

MCCAFFREY HOUSE BRONZE

NATIONAL HOTEL, JAMESTOWN BRONZE

SERENDIPITY ANTIQUES, GROVELAND SILVER

Mountain Dining

Mountain Lodge

DUNBAR HOUSE, MURPHYS GOLD

ALICIA’S SUGAR SHACK GOLD WOODS CREEK CAFE, JAMESTOWN SILVER MIA’S BRONZE

Mountain Event

FROG JUMP, ANGELS CAMP GOLD SONORA CELTIC FAIRE SILVER PEDDLERS FAIRE, KNIGHTS FERRY BRONZE

Mountain Golf Course GREENHORN CREEK RESORT, ANGELS CAMP GOLD

MURPHYS HISTORIC HOTEL GOLD

PINECREST CHALET GOLD

MOUNTAIN RETREAT, ARNOLD SILVER CASTLEBYTHELAKE BRONZE

Mountain Museum ANGELS CAMP MUSEUM GOLD YOSEMITE MUSEUM SILVER MURPHYS OLD TIMERS MUSEUM BRONZE

Mountain Reception Venue

IRONSTONE VINEYARDS, MURPHYS GOLD

FOREST MEADOWS SILVER

RUSH CREEK LODGE SILVER

THE GOLF CLUB AT COPPER VALLEY SILVER

GREENHORN CREEK RESORT, ANGELS CAMP BRONZE

SEVEN SISTERS SOAP & CANDLE GOLD

TREASURES MERCANTILE BRONZE

Mountain Tavern IRON DOOR SALOON GOLD

THE LUBE ROOM SALOON, DORRINGTON SILVER SHENANIGANS AT STEVE’S PLACE BRONZE

Mountain Town MURPHYS GOLD

KNIGHTS FERRY SILVER COLUMBIA BRONZE

Mountain Wedding Venue

GREENHORN CREEK RESORT, ANGELS CAMP GOLD IRONSTONE VINEYARDS, MURPHYS SILVER UNION HILL INN BRONZE

Ski Resort DODGE RIDGE GOLD BEAR VALLEY SILVER 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Winners

Health & Fitness

Bootcamp

MODESTO PLASTIC SURGEONDR. ENEVOLDSEN, MODESTO BRONZE

RESIDENT CROSSFIT, MODESTO GOLD CORE FITNESS SILVER

Dance Studio

GETFIT, OAKDALE BRONZE

KAT’S LEVEL UP DANCE STUDIO, NEWMAN GOLD

Botox Rejuvenation

ON YOUR TOES DANCE STUDIO, HILMAR SILVER

TAILORED AESTHETICS MEDICAL SPA GOLD

Dentist

VARANISMILE, TURLOCK GOLD ROBERT MCCULLA, DDS SILVER DR. PAMELA ANDREWS, MANTECA BRONZE

DR. CALVIN LEE, SURGICAL ARTISTRY, MODESTO SILVER DR. ROMEO BRONZE

Chiropractor

PROM CHIROPRACTIC GOLD BAKER CHIROPRACTIC SILVER DR. BRUCE TURLEY, OAKDALE BRONZE

Cosmetic Dentist

TURLOCK DENTAL CARE GOLD VARANISMILE, TURLOCK SILVER WEST ORTHODONTICS, RIVERBANK/MODESTO BRONZE

Cosmetic / Plastic Surgeon

DR. WILLIAM ANDERSON, MD, TURLOCK GOLD DR. TAMMY WU, SURGICAL ARTISTRY, MODESTO SILVER

EIGHT COUNT DANCE COMPANY BRONZE

Day Spa

NATURAL PATH WELLNESS CENTER RIPON GOLD BE LOVE SKIN SPA SILVER WELLNESS BY ESCALON FIT BRONZE

Dental Implants

VARANISMILE, TURLOCK GOLD TURLOCK DENTAL CARE SILVER DR VICTOR PAK, DDS BRONZE 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Health & Fitness

Dermatologist

GOLDEN STATE DERMATOLOGY GOLD CALIFORNIA SKIN INSTITUTE SILVER DR. PURITA VILLANUEVA BRONZE

Eye Bags

KIMBERLY COCKERHAM GOLD DR. TAMMY WU SILVER DR. WILLIAM ANDERSON BRONZE

Eyelid Rejuvenation

KIMBERLY COCKERHAM, MD GOLD DR. WILLIAM ANDERSON, MD, TURLOCK SILVER DR. TAMMY WU, SURGICAL ARTISTRY, MODESTO BRONZE

Facial Rejuvenation

TAILORED AESTHETICS MEDICAL SPA GOLD DR. CALVIN LEE, SURGICAL ARTISTRY, MODESTO SILVER

Winners Gymnastics

BE LOVE SKIN SPA BRONZE

GYMNASTICS UNLIMITED GOLD

Fitness for Seniors AGAPÉ FLOW STUDIO GOLD

I AM YOGA, TURLOCK SILVER RIDE209 BRONZE

CANNON ACROBATICS SILVER ANDREW ACROBATICS BRONZE

Health Club / Gym GET FIT, OAKDALE GOLD

Fitness Instructor

HEATHER GONZALES, GET FIT, OAKDALE GOLD ALYX LOPEZ - ALTAMONT PERFORMANCE LAB SILVER SHANNON JOLLEY-CFT FITNESS BRONZE

Fitness / Health Center

RESIDENT CROSSFIT, MODESTO SILVER HARDING PERFORMANCE BOOTCAMP BRONZE

Health Food / Supplements

WHITNEY’S BEST ELDERBERRY SYRUP GOLD

AGAPÉ FLOW STUDIO GOLD

OAKDALE NUTRITION CENTER SILVER

GET FIT, OAKDALE SILVER

CORNUCOPIA, MODESTO BRONZE

RESIDENT CROSSFIT, MODESTO BRONZE

Hearing Aid

WESSON HEARING CENTER GOLD

Foot Care

ADVANCED NAIL TECHNOLOGY GOLD

POSEY’S HEARING AID CENTER SILVER

KIMBERLY COCKERHAM, MD BRONZE

TOLBOE FOOT & ANKLE, MODESTO SILVER

VALLEY HEARING AID & OPTICAL BRONZE

Facials

DR. PATINO BRONZE

RENEE’S DAY SPA, MODESTO GOLD

Hospital Facility

MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER, MODESTO GOLD

TAILORED AESTHETICS MEDICAL SPA SILVER

DOCTORS MEDICAL CENTER, MODESTO SILVER

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KAISER PERMANENTE, MODESTO BRONZE

Neck Lift

Orthodontist

Invisalign

TAMMY WU, MD - SURGICAL ARTISTRY SILVER

DR. BRAD PEZOLDT SILVER

TURLOCK DENTAL CARE GOLD WEST ORTHODONTICS, RIVERBANK/MODESTO SILVER CHAMPION ORTHODONTICS BRONZE

Kid’s Dentist

VALLEY OAK DENTAL GROUP, MANTECA GOLD NATALIE LENSER SILVER

KIMBERLY COCKERHAM GOLD

TOWER COSMETIC SURGERY BRONZE

DR. HEINER, MODESTO BRONZE

Nutrition

Pediatric Facility

JOYCE ULRICH GOLD

VALLEY OAK PEDIATRICS, MODESTO GOLD

CFT NUTRITION SILVER

KAISER PERMANENTE, MODESTO SILVER

RIDE209 BRONZE

DENA LENSER, MD BRONZE

Optometrist

TURLOCK DENTAL CARE BRONZE

GENERATIONS FAMILY OPTOMETRY, TURLOCK GOLD

Laser & Cosmetic Center

PLETT OPTOMETRY, TURLOCK SILVER

TAILORED AESTHETICS MEDICAL SPA GOLD DR. WILLIAM ANDERSON, MD, TURLOCK SILVER SURGICAL ARTISTRY, MODESTO BRONZE

Massage Therapy

ANDREA’S SKIN CARE & BODY THERAPY GOLD

WEST ORTHODONTICS, RIVERBANK/MODESTO GOLD

DR. GREG MILLER, MANTECA BRONZE

Optometry - Children’s VALLEY VIEW OPTOMETRY, OAKDALE GOLD GENERATIONS FAMILY OPTOMETRY, TURLOCK SILVER TURLOCK FAMILY VISION BRONZE

Pharmacy

PATTERSON FAMILY PHARMACY GOLD TOWER PHARMACY, TURLOCK SILVER WALGREENS BRONZE

Physical Therapy

GOLDEN BEAR PHYSICAL THERAPY GOLD TOLKHEIM CORBETT, MANTECA SILVER AIR PHYSICAL THERAPY BRONZE

NATURAL PATH, RIPON SILVER MELINDA CHANCE, TURLOCK BRONZE

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Health & Fitness

Pilates

THE STUDIO BY ESCALON FIT GOLD WARRIOR YOGA SILVER CORE FITNESS, MODESTO BRONZE PRIMARY CARE FACILITY KAISER PERMANENTE GOLD SUTTER GOULD MEDICAL FOUNDATION, MODESTO SILVER MODERN URGENT CARE BRONZE

Winners Same Day Dental Implants

Sports Medicine

VARANISMILE GOLD

ROMEO MEDICAL CLINIC AND SPORTS MEDICINE, TURLOCK GOLD

Sedation Dentistry

STANISLAUS ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS MEDICINE SILVER

TURLOCK DENTAL CARE GOLD

VARANISMILE OF TURLOCK SILVER OPENSHAW & PAXMAN DENTISTRY BRONZE

Skin Tightening

KIMBERLY COCKERHAM, MD GOLD DR. CALVIN LEE, SURGICAL ARTISTRY, MODESTO SILVER SKIN BY TESSA AT BLISS, TURLOCK BRONZE

Sleep Apnea Solutions TURLOCK DENTAL CARE GOLD

YORK ORTHOPEDIC RECOVERY BRONZE

Tanning Salon

SUGAR GLOW SPRAY TAN GOLD PACIFIC TANNING, TURLOCK SILVER WELLNESS BY ESCALONFIT BRONZE

Weight Loss / Diet Center

DOC’S DIET, TURLOCK GOLD AGAPÉ FLOW STUDIO SILVER WEIGHT WATCHERS BRONZE

STANISLAUS SLEEP CENTER SILVER TURLOCK PULMONARY AND SLEEP SPECIALISTS @ THE TOWER BRONZE

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The Ultimate Relaxation Experience Wellness Center OSMOSIS LOUNGE GOLD

AGAPÉ FLOW STUDIO SILVER

Day Spa Packages Massage

EGO WELLNESS BRONZE

Waxing Skin Treatments

Yoga Studio

Facials

AGAPÉ FLOW STUDIO GOLD WARRIOR YOGA SILVER

reneesdayspa.com

KORU YOGA STUDIO BRONZE

209-341-0551 1245 McHenry Avenue, Modesto

Voted BEST Optometrist

Children’s Optometry

Thank you for your votes!

A modern, intimate medical spa.

Botox, Dermal Filler, Skin Coaching, Facial rejuvenation Microneedling, PRP and more.

Family Eye Care, Eye Exams, Contact Lens, Fitting, Bifocal Contacts, Monovision, Large Selection of Frames & Sunglasses

Visit us online and schedule an appointment at 2010 W. Monte Vista Ave., Turlock

209-667-1213 GenerationsOptometry.com

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TAILOREDMEDSPA.COM @tailoredmedspa 209-614-2360 | Escalon, CA 107

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7/29/2021 6:35:13 AM

Voted Best

Eyelid Rejuvenation

Thank You for Your Votes.

Central Valley Eye and I are here for you during these uncertain times.

New consults welcome Kimberly Cockerham MD, FACS

STOCKTON - MODESTO - MANTECA www.cockerhammd.com cvemg.com

Our offices are following all CDC guidelines.

Your safety and health is our top priority.

209-952-3705

Texts: 650-804-9270

,

Even more than ever your eyes are the focus of your face.

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Voted BEST of 209 Thank you from all of us at VaraniSmile for voting for us!

Same Day Dental Implants Dental Implants Dentist

Sedation Dentistry Cosmetic Dentist

ADER’S CH RE

TU

AL

CE OI

201 7

VOTED #1 BEST DENTIST 6 YEARS IN A ROW - READERS CHOICE VOTED #1 BEST DENTIST 4 YEARS IN A ROW - BEST OF 209 VOTED #1 BEST COSMETIC DENTIST 6 YEARS IN A ROW - BEST OF 209 VOTED #1 BEST DENTAL IMPLANTS 3 YEARS IN A ROW BEST OF 209 AND 3 YEARS IN A ROW - READERS CHOICE VOTED #1 BEST INVISALIGN - BEST OF 209 RL O CK

JO U

RN

Helping people smile with confidence!

527 E. Olive Ave., Turlock (209) 667-8874

www.VaraniSmile.com

.

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Voted

BEST Of 209 Before

After

Trust your face to the best

Dr. William Anderson Tower Cosmetic Surgery, Specializing In Facial Plastic Surgery

(209) 216-3323

WWW.TOWERCOSMETIC.COM

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It’s how we live and breathe health. Together.

Congratulations to all the winners of 209 Magazine’s Best of 209, including: First Place: Memorial Medical Center, Best Hospital Second Place: Sutter Gould Medical Foundation, Best Place for Primary Care It’s a thousand things, big and small. sutterhealth.org

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Voted Best of 209 • Cosmetic Dentist • Invisalign • Sedation Dentistry • Sleep Apnea

• Dentist • Dental Implants

• Kids Dentist • Community Involved Dentist

Thank You For Voting For Us! We at Turlock Dental Care are so grateful for your support and loyalty.

Dr. Robert A. McCulla, DDS

Serving our community for 38 years!

(209) 667-7889 • www.TurlockDentalCare.com

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All phases for all ages, Complete care for your whole family Serving our community, Caring for families for generations Growing our team, Growing to serve you better

Here We Grow!

Our new location opening in 2021 at the corner of Monte Vista and Colorado!

The Turlock Dental Care Team is proud to be involved in bringing smiles to life in our community and around the world.

They host an annual day of free dentistry, support community non-profits and events including Jessica’s House, the new Turlock Library, and the Turlock Farmers Market, and support dental health in the Dominican Republic through missions trips and clinical support.

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Thank you for supporting our Best of 209 Silver ranking for 2021, our fifth annual win.

Michele W McCall, AAMS® Financial Advisor

1150 9th Street Suite 1215 Modesto, CA 95354 www.edwardjones.com/michele-mccall www.linkedin.com/in/michele-mccall 209-848-4496

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

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Home

Appliance Repair DIRECT APPLIANCE GOLD

LIBERTY APPLIANCE REPAIR, MANTECA SILVER VASKYS APPLIANCE SERVICES BRONZE

Carpet Cleaning Company

ADVANCE CARPET CLEANING GOLD MENDOZA’S CLEANER CONCEPTS, TURLOCK SILVER ASAP CARPET CLEANING BRONZE

Concrete Floor Coatings

LANCASTER PAINTING GOLD NEXT LEVEL PAINTING SILVER EJ FRANKS CONSTRUCTION BRONZE

Winners R E CONSTRUCTION SILVER WOODLAND CONSTRUCTION BUILDERS, INC. BRONZE

ALKIRE CONSTRUCTION SILVER

Flooring / Tile

ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION GOLD

ELEVATED DEVELOPMENT CONSTRUCTION BRONZE

ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION SILVER PREMIER TILE & STONE BRONZE

MIKE HALLETT FENCING SILVER

Fountains / Garden Decor

RICHTER FENCE GOLD

CREATIVE WATER GARDENS GOLD

WIGGINS FENCING BRONZE

P & L CONCRETE & NURSERY SILVER

Fireplaces

RAINFOREST NURSERY, MANTECA BRONZE

VALLEY FIREPLACE GOLD ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION SILVER

ARRCON BUILDERS SILVER

Flooring / Carpet

CARPET MAN PRO FLOORING INC. GOLD PREMIER TILE & STONE SILVER ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION BRONZE

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ACCENT CARPET ONE GOLD

Fence Contractor

ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION GOLD

ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION GOLD

ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION SILVER CARPET MAN PRO FLOORING INC. BRONZE

Construction Business

Custom Home Builder

PREMIER TILE & STONE GOLD

Decks

TORRE REICH CONSTRUCTION INC, TURLOCK BRONZE

TORRE REICH CONSTRUCTION INC, TURLOCK BRONZE

Flooring / Hardwood

115

Glass and Mirror Company DON’S MOBILE GLASS GOLD OAKDALE GLASS GOLD PAUL’S GLASS CO., TURLOCK BRONZE

Heating & Air

CENCAL MECHANICAL HEATING & AIR GOLD

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:35:39 AM

Home

WARREN’S HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING SILVER DRAY HEATING & AIR BRONZE

Winners Interior Design

WENDY GLAISTER INTERIORS GOLD

Landscaping

AT HOME, MODESTO SILVER

THOMPSON BUILDING MATERIALS, RIPON GOLD

Home Automation

RUSTIC ROOTS BRONZE

ARVIN HOME SYSTEMS, INC. SILVER

Kitchen & Bath Remodeling

KIRKES ELECTRIC, TURLOCK GOLD

SOUNDSCAPES ELECTRIC, SECURITY & AUDIO VIDEO BRONZE

Home Improvement Company

ALL ABOUT KITCHENS, MODESTO GOLD ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION SILVER DIRECT APPLIANCE BRONZE

Home Security

ARVIN HOME SYSTEMS, INC. GOLD INTELLIGUARD SECURITY SILVER 1ST SECURITY & SOUND, MODESTO BRONZE

Home Theater

ARVIN HOME SYSTEMS, INC. GOLD KIRKES ELECTRIC, TURLOCK SILVER SOUNDSCAPES ELECTRIC, SECURITY & AUDIO VIDEO BRONZE

ALL ABOUT KITCHENS, MODESTO GOLD DIRECT APPLIANCE SILVER

CALIFORNIA LANDSCAPE SERVICES, INC. SILVER CRAMER & SONS LAWN & GARDEN BRONZE

Lighting - Indoor/ Outdoor

ATP BUILDERS BRONZE

MANTECA LIGHTING GOLD

Kitchen / Bath Cabinets

PHILLIPS LIGHTING, MODESTO SILVER

KIWI WOODWORKS GOLD

KIRKES ELECTRIC, TURLOCK BRONZE

PREMIER TILE & STONE SILVER

Locksmith

ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION BRONZE

Kitchen / Bath Counters

PREMIER TILE & STONE GOLD

OAKDALE LOCKSMITH GOLD CUSTOM LOCKSMITH SILVER SERVICE PRO LOCKSMITH BRONZE

Nursery /Gardening

DIRECT APPLIANCE SILVER

CALIFORNIA LANDSCAPE SUPPLY GOLD

GRANITE GALLERY BRONZE

P&L ESCALON SILVER

Kitchen/Bath Tile Store PREMIER TILE & STONE GOLD

RAINFOREST NURSERY, MANTECA BRONZE

BEDROSIANS MODESTO SILVER

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UNITED TILE & STONE BRONZE

116

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Outdoor Kitchens

Pool Service / Repair

ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION SILVER

TRADEMARK POOLS SILVER

CM CONSULTING & DESIGN BRONZE

VINTAGE POOL SERVICE AND MORE BRONZE

TURLOCK CONSTRUCTION GOLD

Painting Service LANCASTER PAINTING GOLD SCOTTY’S PAINTING SILVER CROWN PAINTING BRONZE

Patios

OLIVEIRA & SON CONSTRUCTION INC GOLD ADRIAN CONSTRUCTION SILVER ARNOLD CEMENT BRONZE

Pest Control SPI PEST GOLD

ONSTAR PEST CONTROL SILVER

BURKETT’S POOL PLASTERING GOLD

Roofing Company NUSHAKE ROOFING GOLD

Solar Company

CONSUMER’S CHOICE, TURLOCK BRONZE

Tree Service

RUMBLE TREE AND TURF BRONZE

LOVE’S HEATING, AIR AND SOLAR SILVER HONEY’S AIR & SOLAR BRONZE

Solar Panel Cleaning PROVOST POWER WASHING GOLD

Plumbing

Spa/Hot Tubs

GORDO’S POOL CITY GOLD SPA DOCTOR SILVER

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SPI SILVER

SIG - SOLAR INSTALLATION GROUP GOLD

MR. SQUEEGEE BRONZE

ABE’S DISCOUNT PLUMBING SUPPLIES BRONZE

RELIABLE TERMITE SOLUTIONS GOLD

GROVER LANDSCAPE SERVICES SILVER

DEHART ROOFING BRONZE

THE WINDOW CLEANING AGENCY SILVER

WESTERN PLUMBING SILVER

Termite Inspections

SINDELAR TREE SERVICE, INC. GOLD

TRUE ROOF SILVER

RELIABLE TERMITE SOLUTIONS BRONZE

TONY’S PLUMBING GOLD

MY SPA FIX BRONZE

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Home

Window Cleaning

THE WINDOW CLEANING AGENCY GOLD I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW SERVICES SILVER BOB’S FINE WINDOWS BRONZE

Window CoveringsBlinds 1ST CLASS BLINDS AND SHUTTERS, ESCALON GOLD

Winners PURSLEY’S SILVER CM CONSULTING & DESIGN BRONZE

Window Glass Dealer

Working Kitchen Showroom DIRECT APPLIANCE GOLD BORDONA’S SILVER

PAUL’S GLASS CO., TURLOCK GOLD DON’S MOBILE GLASS SILVER THE GLASS SHOP BRONZE

ELITE SHUTTERS & SHADINGS SILVER JAUREGUY’S PAINT & DECORATING, TURLOCK BRONZE

Window CoveringsDraperies JAUREGUY’S PAINT & DECORATING, TURLOCK GOLD

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Be PART of the group... not APART from the group.

Nobody wants to feel left out of the conversation, but hearing loss can make you feel like you’re in a fog.

An important part of being healthy is being social — engaging in conversations and enjoying time spent with friends. If you aren’t hearing your best, though, social activity is something you may shy away from.

certified auto glass technicians I residential & commercial glass I home interior & exterior windows I patio doors I mirrors & custom furniture I glass shelving I shower doors I wardrobe doors & patio screens I custom closets I garage & pantry I shower doors I frameless certified auto glass technicians I residential & commercial glass I home interior & exterior windows I patio glass & Mirror Company doors I mirrors & custom furniture I glass shelving thedoors 209& patio screens I shower doorsin I wardrobe I custom closets I garage & pantry I shower doors Since1960, 1960, if it’s Since it’sglass... glass...

I frameless certified auto with glass technicians I we can help you you we can help withthat! that! residential & commercial glass I pantry I shower donsmobileglass.com donsmobileglass.com doors I wardrobe doors & patio screens I custom you!& pantry I closets Thank I garage shower doors I frameless

Don’t decline any invitations to spend time with your friends and loved ones.

Address your hearing loss and stay connected to those you care about!

Call us today to learn more about your hearing health!

Our Services: • • • •

Free Hearing Evaluations Personalized Service Custom Ear Plugs Hearing Aid Cleanings, Repairs, and Adjustments

Julia Tyner,

Christiana Garcia,

BC-HIS California Licensed Hearing Aid Dispenser

California Licensed Hearing Aid Dispenser

WESSON: A Trusted Name in Hearing for Over 3 Decades OFFERING HEARING SOLUTIONS FOR ALL BUDGETS • Financing Available • Most Insurance Accepted Including Medi-Cal • 4 Convenient Locations – Manteca, Ripon, Tracy and Modesto

Manteca 1079 Eucalyptus St. Suite B

Ripon 1444 Main St. Suite A

Tracy 530 West Eaton Ave. Suite K

209-408-1745

Voted No.11 Voted No.

glass & Mirror Company in the 209

NEW!

Modesto Location 4101 Tully Rd. Suite 102

www.wessonhearing.com

Full Service Award Winning Luxury Interior Design Wendy Glaister Interiors would like to thank our clients and vendors for their trust and loyalty. We couldn’t do it without you. Our sincerest appreciation for this honor, 209 Magazine.

Follow us on Instagram @wendydesign

Wendy Glaister, ASID, IDS, NKBA • 209-247-2730 • Studio by appt. only, inside Slaters Furniture • www.WendyGlaisterInteriors.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

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VOTED BEST APPLIANCE STORE • APPLIANCE REPAIR WORKING KITCHEN SHOWROOM

Thank you to our loyal customers and our incredible staff for making us #1 in the 209 MOST LIVE KITCHEN DISPLAYS IN THE VALLEY! Come see why we have won the Best of 209 for 7 consecutive years.

APPLIANCES • PLUMBING • COUNTERS • TILE • CABINETS • CABINET REFACING • SINKS FAUCETS • KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS • MATTRESSES • OUTDOOR KITCHENS 2412 McHenry Ave., Modesto • (209) 238-3000 • www.DirectAppliance.com

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 120

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VOTED BEST Kitchen & Bath Cabinets!

Thank you for

VOTING FOR US!

Voted BEST Flooring/Carpet in the 209 Serving the community for 38 years

Fine Custom Cabinetry For Home & Office

1326 Lander, Turlock, CA

209-667-4422

CELL : 209-607-KIWI www.KiwiWoodworks.com

CA Lic #913447

www.carpetmanproflooring.com

Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5pm • Saturday 9am - 12pm

LIC. #787544

We Couldn’t Be the Best of 209 without You! THANK YOU for your votes and support!

Meeting your painting and coating needs is absolutely our pleasure, and we look forward to continuing to serve you in the years ahead.

INTERIORS | EXTERIORS | CABINET FINISHING | CONCRETE COATINGS

209-634-1111

Lancasterpainting.com

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Lic #868896

121

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PROFESSIONAL. FAST. AFFORDABLE. LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED. Honest, reliable service Specializing in complete Fence Installation and Repair Residential / Commercial Wrought Iron • Wood • Chain Link Pool Fencing • 5 Strand Barbed Wire • Vinyl

Serving you is our desire, pleasing you is our commitment!

Thanks for voting us #1 Fence Contractor in the 209!

209-986-1781 Mon. - Fri. 7am-5pm Richterfence.com

For Residential or Commercial Service Call: Jose (209) 986-8566 or Larry (209) 986-1781

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m m

Professional Services

Accident Attorney

ARATA, SWINGLE, VAN EGMOND & HEITLINGER GOLD SILVA INJURY LAW, INC. SILVER TAI BOGAN LAW FIRM BRONZE

Accounting and Tax Preparation

WAHL, WILLEMSE & WILSON LLP, CPAS GOLD TIM WHEELER, RIPON SILVER PETER HOLTZ, CPA BRONZE

Attorney

LAW OFFICE OF EDDIE TORRES GOLD LISA THIESSEN SILVER MICHAEL SILVA, SILVA INJURY LAW, INC. BRONZE

Bail Bonds

JOANNA’S BAIL BONDS GOLD ADRIAN’S BAIL BONDS SILVER ALL-PRO BAIL BONDS BRONZE

Bank

F&M BANK GOLD OAK VALLEY COMMUNITY BANK SILVER

Winners UMPQUA BANK BRONZE

GOLDEN 1 CREDIT UNION SILVER

Banners & Signs

MOCSE CREDIT UNION BRONZE

SIGN DEPOT - CLINTON HECK GOLD J & J PRINTING, MANTECA SILVER NEVER BORING SIGNS & DESIGNS, MODESTO BRONZE

RAINBOW INTERNATIONAL RESTORATION GOLD COIT CLEANERS SILVER

HUFF CONSTRUCTION / DKI BRONZE

Barber

THE BARBER CLUB, TURLOCK GOLD CENTRAL VALLEY BARBER COLLEGE SILVER

Digital Marketing

DEVINE SOLUTIONS GROUP, TRACY GOLD

GLAM SALON BRONZE

ONE ELEVEN WEB DESIGN SILVER

Bookkeeping

RETENTION MEDIA BRONZE

BALANCED BOOKS GOLD BOURN BOOKKEEPING LLC SILVER CLAUDIA GONZALEZ BRONZE

Computer Support / Computer Store NETWORK BUILDERS IT GOLD

HEIDA COMPUTERS, RIPON SILVER

Dry Cleaners

BONDED CLEANERS, MODESTO GOLD DEL RIO CLEANERS, OAKDALE SILVER DEL RIO CLEANERS, MODESTO BRONZE

Electrical Service / Repair WEST COAST ELECTRIC GOLD

TECH HEROES BRONZE

KIRKES ELECTRIC, TURLOCK SILVER

Credit Union

NELSON AND SONS ELECTRIC BRONZE

VALLEY FIRST CREDIT UNION GOLD

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Damage Restoration

123

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

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Professional Services

Winners

Employment Agency

Funeral Home

BLACK OAK CASINO, TUOLUMNE CITY BRONZE

HEDY HOLMES STAFFING SILVER

PL FRY SILVER

House Cleaning

PRIDESTAFF BRONZE

TURLOCK MEMORIAL PARK & FUNERAL HOME BRONZE

MICELI-WATTERS, MODESTO GOLD

Estate Planning

COLLEEN VAN EGMOND, ARATA SWINGLE VAN EGMOND & HEITLINGER GOLD RON HILLBERG SILVER STRATEGIC LEGAL GROUP BRONZE

ALLEN MORTUARY GOLD

Golf Carts

GOLF CARS UNLIMITED GOLD

WOODY’S GOLF & INDUSTRIAL VEHICLES, DENAIR BRONZE

BETTY JULIAN SILVER

GLAM SALON, RIVERBANK SILVER

STRATEGIC LEGAL GROUP BRONZE

SALON ASHBY BRONZE

Fetal Ultrasound Studio

Heavy Equipment Hauling

Financial Planning

DWAYNE ALPERS @ MORGAN STANLEY GOLD EDWARD JONES, MANTECA SILVER JEFF SUTTON, STIFEL BRONZE

SALON SALON, MODESTO GOLD

ALEX ANGEL LOWBED GOLD

AMERICAN CRANE RENTAL SILVER CAL TRUCKING BRONZE

KW SOLUTIONS SILVER PIPELINE SUPPLY & SERVICE, LLC BRONZE

Insurance Agency

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY GOLD GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE SILVER OMEGA PACIFIC INSURANCE SOLUTIONS BRONZE

Insurance Agency / Commercial

FARMERS INSURANCE - GORDON LITTLE AGENCY GOLD

Hotel

WINE & ROSES, LODI GOLD

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY SILVER

BEST WESTERN PLUS, PATTERSON SILVER

OMEGA PACIFIC INSURANCE SOLUTIONS BRONZE

209MAGAZINE.COM

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ASAP JANITORIAL SERVICES BRONZE

CONLIN SUPPLY, OAKDALE GOLD

Hair Salon

HELLO BABY ULTRASOUND GOLD

ULTIMATE JANITORIAL SILVER

Industrial Supplies

JJ’S GOLF CARTS SILVER

Family Law Attorney

JENNIFER A. COENENBERG, ESQ. GOLD

MOLLY MAIDS GOLD

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Insurance Agency / Crop

WESTERN VALLEY INSURANCE ASSOCIATES, TURLOCK GOLD FARMERS INSURANCE - GORDON LITTLE AGENCY SILVER WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY BRONZE

Insurance Agency / Health

WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY GOLD

Insurance Agency/ Worker’s Comp

GDI INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. GOLD

Internet Service Provider

AYERA TECHNOLOGIES, INC. GOLD

GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE SILVER WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY BRONZE

Insurance Agent

CHARLES DOLL, OMEGA PACIFIC INSURANCE SOLUTIONS GOLD

GEORGE MAURICIO AGENCY SILVER

MICHAEL IRELAND, JR. WINTON-IRELAND STROM & GREEN SILVER

OMEGA PACIFIC INSURANCE SOLUTIONS BRONZE

GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE BRONZE

Insurance Agency / Home & Auto RICO, PFITZER, PIRES INSURANCE AGENCY GOLD

GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE SILVER WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY BRONZE

Insurance Agency / Life GDI INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. GOLD WINTON-IRELAND, STROM & GREEN INSURANCE AGENCY SILVER GORDON LITTLE AGENCY, FARMERS INSURANCE BRONZE 209MAGAZINE.COM

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Professional Services

XFINITY SILVER AT&T BRONZE

Investment Company SHARON AMICK- EDWARD JONES, MANTECA GOLD

Winners CALIFORNIA MORTGAGE ASSOCIATES BRONZE

Moving Company CASEY’S MOVING GOLD

GRACE MOVING COMPANY SILVER

MICHELE MCCALL - EDWARD JONES, MODESTO SILVER

BIG ISLAND MOVING BRONZE

CHARLES SCHWAB, MODESTO BRONZE

Nail Salon

Law Firm

SILVA INJURY LAW, INC. GOLD ARATA, SWINGLE, VAN EGMOND & HEITLINGER SILVER TAI BOGAN LAW FIRM BRONZE

Merchant Processing Services

HEARTLAND PAYMENT SYSTEMS - DEANNA STROUP GOLD EVIDENT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS SILVER ELAVON BRONZE

Mortgage Company SCENIC OAKS FUNDING GOLD

ABILITY MORTGAGE / AMBECK MORTGAGE ASSOCIATES SILVER

MACHADO & SONS CONSTRUCTION GOLD ARNOLD CEMENT SILVER

CAL COATING ASPHALT BRONZE

Personal Injury Attorney SILVA INJURY LAW, INC. GOLD

ARATA, SWINGLE, VAN EGMOND & HEITLINGER SILVER

MAGIC NAILS GOLD

PINKY’S NAIL STUDIO SILVER BREDOESNAILS @ ALL DOLLED UP BRONZE

Notary Services LORETTA LAUGHLIN GOLD

TARA LEVY, TURLOCK SILVER JOANNA SMITH BRONZE

Outside / Inside Light Installation

TAI BOGAN LAW FIRM BRONZE

Photographer

ALY INCARDONA PHOTOGRAPHY GOLD BLESSINGS IN FOCUS, MICHELLE PATEREAU SILVER BIRCH AND BLOSSOM PHOTOGRAPHY BRONZE

Print / Copy Shop

J & J PRINTING, MANTECA GOLD

THE CHRISTMAS LIGHT GUY GOLD

INPRINT PRINTING SILVER

JACK FROST SILVER

DITTOS BRONZE

SOUNDSCAPES ELECTRIC, SECURITY & AUDIO VIDEO BRONZE

Private Security

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Paving / Grading

126

SECURITY FORCE ONE, MANTECA GOLD

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:36:17 AM

CRIMETEK, TURLOCK SILVER RANK SECURITY BRONZE

SBA Lender

SUCCESS CAPITAL, MODESTO GOLD

Tattoo Removal

THEODORE STAAHL, MD - MD LASER CENTER GOLD SIERRA LASER CLINIC, MERCED SILVER

Telecommunications

F&M BANK SILVER

PENGUIN GOLD

BANK OF STOCKTON BRONZE

ONSITE CONNECTIONS SILVER

Shipping & Mailing DOWNTOWN BEAR POSTAL, MODESTO GOLD UPS STORE SILVER VILLAGE PARCEL, TURLOCK BRONZE

UTILITY TELECOM BRONZE

Travel Agency

TRAVEL IN GOOD COMPANY GOLD CANDY’S CAREFREE TRAVEL SILVER YONAN’S TRAVEL BRONZE

Storage Facility

AAA CERES SELF STORAGE GOLD ELLIS SELF STORAGE SILVER SECURITY PUBLIC STORAGE, MANTECA BRONZE

Tattoo Parlor

INKED UP BY DUSTIN STACY GOLD DYING ART TATTOO SILVER INKWELL BRONZE

Wedding Cake SWEET LIVIN’ GOLD

MOSS ROSE BAKERY, OAKDALE SILVER OLDE TYME PASTRIES, TURLOCK BRONZE

Wedding / Event Planner EVENTS 22 GOLD

KYLIE DAWN EVENTS & COORDINATING SILVER THE MARE AND THE MULE BRONZE

209MAGAZINE.COM

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Since 1968, we have been committed to service, quality, and you!

Our agency was founded in 1968 by Frank Rico and is currently co-owned and operated by Frank’s son, John Rico, and business partner Manuel H. Pires.

In 1974, Manuel Pires had his own Portuguese radio show on KHOP. Manuel needed to sell advertising to support his show and Frank Rico was one of his advertisers. After some time had passed and Franks ad contract was due to expire, Frank told Manuel that he wanted Manuel to come work for him at his insurance agency. Manuel made the move to the insurance world, eventually becoming part owner a short time later. Manuel has been part owner for over 45 years now.

In 1985, Frank Rico recruited his son, John into the family business. John Rico has been immersed in insurance his entire life. With a degree in business and marketing, John graduated from California State University Hayward in 1984. John had been playing professional football in Canada and coaching at Cabrillo College in Aptos, Ca., when he joined the company. John has been part owner for over 35 years now.

Rico, Pfitzer, Pires was built on a strong, solid commitment, one that is as strong and important today as it was in 1968. We pride ourselves in being a locally owned and family-oriented company and we treat our clients as such. The fundamentals of our agency are simple and timeless, to provide the most complete, comprehensive, and competitive insurance products at the highest level of customer service to each of our clients.

Choosing the home or business that is right for you takes special care and consideration. Choosing your insurance protection requires and deserves the same special attention. At Rico, Pfitzer, Pires and Associates we help you secure the most affordable and efficient coverage. We take the time to truly understand your individual insurance needs and build the perfect policy that addresses your unique situation.

As a top independent insurance broker, we have access to A+ rated carriers, giving us the ability to shop multiple carriers nationwide. With over 50 years in the business, we are confident in saying that we have the knowledge and experience required to provide you with the best possible insurance coverage to fit your needs!

We are honored to receive recognition in The Best of 209 and owe our success to all our loyal clients and dedicated team members of Rico, Pfitzer Pires.

Without you, we would not be where we are today!

208 5th Street, Gustine, CA • (800) 399-7473 • WWW.RPPINS.COM LIC. #0499798

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 128

7/29/2021 6:36:28 AM

RICO, PFITZER, PIRES & ASSOCIATES INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. LIC. #0499798

We are honored to have won

Gold 1st Place Insurance Agency / Home & Auto Thanks to all of our customers, friends and family for voting to be your #1

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 129

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Thank You FOR VOTING US

BEST BAIL BOND COMPANY

IN THE 209 TWO YEARS IN A ROW!

“I’ve Got Your Back”

#1833629 “ Joanna is very professional and will treat someone accused of a crime with respect. I work with several bail agencies and Joanna is one of my favorites.

Thank you Joanna! ”

- Tai B.

• Open 24/7 • Free Bail Consultation • Free Warrant Checks • Public Notary Free For All Clients • Best Customer Service In The Industry

“P wo do wh fo

Habla Espanol

www.joannasbailbonds.com

(209) 527-0911 (209) 404-4269 1202 H St. Ste E. Modesto

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Joanna R. Smith is respected in the Bail Bond business by her clients and colleagues

WE ARE ON CALL 24/7

“People Trust me, and it means the world to me that I can help so many doing what I love,” says Joanna, who has been in the profession for 30 years.

• I find joy in helping people • I am personally invested in each case • I am dedicated to both my employees and my customers • I find fulfillment in being a small business and in supporting other small businesses in our community • I believe in honest hard work and excellent customer service • I am bilingual

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 131

I am pleased, honored, and humbled to accept this award, especially against several other bail agencies I have long admired and respected.

A very special thanks to all those who voted for my business for the 2nd year in a row. We at Joanna’s try very hard to provide a service for our clients that is beyond mediocre. I would also like to thank my staff, friends and family that have supported me and my dream to be a successful business owner throughout the years. This is my 30th year in the bail industry and I still have a passion for helping people, and that will never change.

7/29/2021 6:36:35 AM

132

Thank You for voting me best photographer in the 209 again this year!

Aly Incardona Photography The Central Valley’s premier luxury maternity, glam and boudoir photographer AlyIncardona.com AlyIncardonaPhotography

IS HERE TO HELP RESOLVE ALL OF YOUR IMPORTANT DIVORCE AND FAMILY LEGAL ISSUES

Thank you!

to our loyal customers for voting us Best Internet Service Provider 2021

We strive to resolve matters in an amicable and efficient manner getting straight to the critical issues with effective results..

Divorce • Annulments Guardianship Child Support • Spousal Support • Legal Separation Grandparent Rights • Child Custody and Visitation

-ServingBUSINESS & RESIDENTIAL Customers

NO CONTRACTS NO HIDDEN FEES LOCAL SUPPORT

Reliable Internet at Blazing Fast Speed!

965 E. Yosemite Ave., Suite 19 Manteca CA 95336

Call or visit us online today!

Jennifer Coenenberg • 209-645-2842 www.coenenberglaw.com

ayera.com 209MAGAZINE.COM

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The Vall ey’s

FAVORITE INTERNET!

209.579.3000

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:37:07 AM

G B C A G

A

P E P W W E B

George S. Arata Bradley J. Swingle Colleen F. Van Egmond Amanda J. Heitlinger Gary S. Davis

Michelle I. Morelli Graham Scott Richard D. Moths Alyssa L. Thompson

AREAS OF PRACTICE Personal Injury Estate Planning & Litigation Probate & Conservatorships Wills & Trusts Wage & Hour and Discrimination Claims Employment Law & Litigation Business Litigation & Transactions

Adoptions Arbitration & Mediation Entity Formation Debt Collection Residential and Commercial Real Estate Agriculture Law Public Entity and Municipal Defense

1207 I Street, Modesto, CA 95354 209.522.2211 | www.arata-law.com

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 133

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Michael Joe Silva

Promoting Healing Through Compassionate Advocacy silvainjurylaw.com

michaeljoe@silvainjurylaw.com

for voting

Silva Injury Law

Personal Injury & Law Firm Helping injured people in auto accident cases in the Central Valley.

FREE consultation with a personal injury attorney NO FEE unless

We Win

Turlock

Modesto

Merced

Monterey

2130 Geer Rd., Suite A Turlock, CA 95380

515 13th Street, Suite 101 Modesto, CA 95354

1170 W. Olive Avenue, Suite G2 Merced, CA 95348

215 W. Franklin Street, Suite 212 Monterey, CA 93940

209-600-4389

209-600-4389

209-600-4389

831-471-5060 • FAX 209-665-0095

80

©2

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 134

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING

Gold ∙ 1st Place

2021 Best Bank Visit one of our convenient branch locations today!

800-888-1498 | fmbonline.com ©2021 Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California. All rights reserved. MSR 8536 7/2021.

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 135

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EDDIE C. TORRES ATTORNEY AT LAW

• BUSINESS • FAMILY LAW • CIVIL • CRIMINAL • ESTATE PLANNING • AGRICULTURE • IMMIGRATION

VOTED #1 IN DAMAGE RESTORATION IN THE 209

FIRE • WATER • MOLD

164 N. MAPLE AVE. MANTECA, CA 95336

Thank You For Voting Us Best Attorney In The 209!

Eddietorreslaw.com

Trauma Scene, COVID, Contents Cleaning and Pack Out

209-846-2127

Your Favorite Magazine now...

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WE’ VE GOT THE 209 COVERED.

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Thank you for your votes!

Voted

BEST Funeral Home

Turlock’s only family-owned funeral home.

Proudly serving our community for over 69 years!

Michael and Alison Allen

247 N. Broadway - Turlock

209.634.5829

www.AllenMortuary.com

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 137

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Banking With A Purpose

W

G

B B B

J

r checking | loans | mortgages | investment services Ceres | Clovis | Fresno | Modesto | Oakdale | Tracy | Turlock Valleyfirstcu.org | (209) 549-8500

TM

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 138

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e

Thank You for the Vote of Confidence We take pride in our team

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency Gold Award for Best Place to Work Best Insurance Agency Best Insurance Agency Health

Join Team WIS&G recruitment@wisg.com

800.790.4875 www.wisg.com License #0596517

TM

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 139

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Real Estate

Commercial Real Estate ANOKEEN VARANI GOLD

ADRIAN HARRELL - NEW BRIDGE SILVER FRED SHARIF BRONZE

Condo / Apartments

JACOB MOSLEY, EXIT REALTY CONSULTANTS GOLD NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT SILVER SG PROPERTY MANAGEMENT BRONZE

Home Inspection

J BIXLER INSPECTIONS GOLD REST E-Z SILVER A HOME SWEET HOME INSPECTION BRONZE

Loan Officer

FERNANDO ZAPIAIN - AMERICAN PACIFIC MORTGAGE GOLD EDVARD ESHAGHI SILVER MICKIE NUSS BRONZE

Winners Mortgage Banker

AMERICAN PACIFIC MORTGAGE, GEER RD. GOLD ABILITY MORTGAGE / AMBECK MORTGAGE ASSOCIATES SILVER GREAT CENTRAL MORTGAGE BRONZE

New Home Development JKB LIVING, INC. GOLD

Real Estate Company EXIT REALTY CONSULTANTS GOLD TLC REALTORS SILVER ATLANTIC REALTY BRONZE

Realtor

MICHAEL ROCHA GOLD SUSAN BAUDLER SILVER

ATHERTON SILVER

DANIELLE SANDERS BRONZE

BRIGHT HOMES BRONZE

Title Company

Property Management NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT GOLD SUCCESS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SILVER STEPHANIE GARCIA, SG PROPERTY MANAGEMENT BRONZE

NORTH AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY GOLD FIRST AMERICAN TITLE SILVER STEWART TITLE OF CALIFORNIASTANISLAUS BRONZE

Real Estate Broker KRIS KLAIR GOLD

ATLANTIC REALTY SILVER RE/MAX EXECUTIVE, MANTECA BRONZE

6

T P

209MAGAZINE.COM

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:37:40 AM

Thank You

For Voting Us

Best of 209 Real Estate Company Kris Klair Voted Best Real Estate Broker

& Jacob Mosley

Voted Best Condos / Apartments Kris Klair

Jacob Mosley

NOW HIRING & TRAINING!

EXIT REALTY CONSULTANTS

209-668-2525 WWW.EXITHOME.COM

TURLOCK CERES MODESTO NORTH MODESTO MODESTO MANTECA TRACY FRESNO 600 E. Main Street, 3018 E. Service Rd, 4641 Spyres Way, Ste # 1 3425 Coffee Rd 901 Mchenry Ave. 150 W. Yosemite Ave, 1912 W. Grant Line Rd. 2416 W. Shaw Ave., Ste #105 Ste # 300 Ste 104 & 105 Modesto, CA. 95356 Modesto Ca 95355 Modesto,CA. 95350 Manteca, CA. 95366 Tracy, CA. 95304 Ph: 209-569-5253 Ph: 209-622-2020 Ph: 209-823-1234 Ph: 209-627-1111 Fresno, CA 93711 Turlock, CA. 95380 Ceres, CA. 95307 Ph: 209-622-4800 Ph: 209-668-2525 Ph: 209-554-5252 Ph: 559-256-7878

MORE COMING SOON!

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Fernando Zapiain Mortgage Professional NMLS# 270739

Voted Best Loan Officer For The Fourth Year In A Row!

(209) 380-5151

Hablo Español

fzapiain@apmortgage.com 2130 Geer Rd. Ste. C, Turlock, CA 95382 Licensed by the Dept. of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act

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Voted Best Mortgage Banker!

Derek Tull Sr. Loan Officer 209.573.0530 NMLS# 221476

Fernando Zapiain Peggi Sahota Daniel Santos Mortgage Professional 209.380.5151 NMLS# 270739

Sr. Loan Officer 209.756.5355 NMLS# 1077117

Diana Haase Mariah McDuffy

Loan Officer 209.622.8228 NMLS# 1897781

Loan Officer 209.769.1247 NMLS# 1158521

Marla Sousa

Denise Maciel

Loulou das Vacas

Kathrine Koochof

Jennifer Benjamin

Branch Manager

Sales Manager

Loan Processor

Loan Processor Jr.

Loan Officer Assistant

Loan Officer 209.356.8979 NMLS# 2126651

Josefa Renteria

Mark Maciel

Loan Officer Assistant Marketing Coordinator

2130 Geer Rd. Ste. C, Turlock, CA 95382 (209) 579-3029 APMLending.com Licensed by the Dept. of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act

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V

B R New Bridge Management has been awarded

“Best Property Management Company” by 209 Magazine continuously since 2015 and for good reason.

Our singularly focused, professional and diligent approach in representing the best properties in Stanislaus, Merced and San Joaquin counties has earned us the respect of our investors, property owners, residents, and the local community.

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VOTED

BEST REALTOR Thank you for voting for me!

Michael Rocha DRE Lic #02006413

2100 Geer Rd Ste B

209.485.5228

mrocha@homesatatlantic.com

@Mrochahomes @209realestate

209 Magazine 46-AS2021-02.indd 145

DRE Lic. #01834856

7/29/2021 6:38:00 AM

Shopping

Antique Store

MAIN STREET ANTIQUES, TURLOCK GOLD THE ANTIQUE WAREHOUSE, SALIDA SILVER VINTAGE MARKET, TURLOCK BRONZE

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Baby Clothes

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Bookstore

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PENCIE & GINGER, ESCALON SILVER SASSY PANTS CHILDRENS BOUTIQUE, STOCKTON BRONZE

Children’s Furniture

THE BOOK EXCHANGE, MANTECA BRONZE

WOODS FURNITURE GALLERY, TURLOCK GOLD

Bridal Boutique

VINTAGE MARKET, TURLOCK SILVER

THE BRIDAL VAULT, JAMESTOWN GOLD

Children’s Shoe Store

MIRA BRIDAL SILVER

STRIDE RITE GOLD

BIANCA’S BRIDAL COUTURE, MODESTO BRONZE

ENVY FINE CLOTHING SILVER FAMOUS FOOTWEAR BRONZE

Camping Gear CRESCENT SUPPLY GOLD

Christmas Decor

BASS PRO SHOP SILVER

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VINTAGE MARKET, TURLOCK SILVER FARM HOUSE, TURLOCK BRONZE

Children’s Accessories PENCIE & GINGER, ESCALON GOLD FARM HOUSE, TURLOCK SILVER RAGAMUFFIN, MODESTO BRONZE

Consignment Store

HOPE CHEST THRIFT STORE GOLD THREADS CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE SILVER OFF CENTER THRIFT & GIFT, TURLOCK BRONZE

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Children’s Clothing

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Cowboy Boots BOOT BARN GOLD

OAKDALE FEED & SEED SILVER ENVY FINE CLOTHING BRONZE

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MY THING BEADS GOLD HOBBY LOBBY SILVER HOBBY SHOPPE, OAKDALE BRONZE

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THE BUTLER’S PANTRY SILVER

Estate Sale Company

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ESTATE OF AFFAIRS GOLD

Gift Shop

GRACE AND SONS SILVER CENTRAL VALLEY ESTATE SALES BRONZE

Fine Jewelry

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Florist

AT HOME, MODESTO BRONZE

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Custom Reclaimed Furniture BACK HOME, TURLOCK GOLD ANTIQUE WAREHOUSE SILVER

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Furniture Store

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Gift Baskets

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MOBAAK AROMATHERAPY SHOPPE SILVER

CICCARELLI JEWELERS, MODESTO SILVER

Custom Furniture BACK HOME, TURLOCK GOLD

FARM HOUSE, TURLOCK GOLD

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Shopping

Grocery Store

VILLAGE FRESH MARKET, TURLOCK GOLD O’BRIEN’S MARKET SILVER

Winners Home Accessories

VINTAGE MARKET, TURLOCK GOLD THE BUTLER’S PANTRY SILVER

COSTLESS FOOD COMPANY BRONZE

MOBAAK AROMATHERAPY SHOPPE BRONZE

Gun Dealer

Home Decor

BILSON’S SILVER

VINTAGE MARKET, TURLOCK SILVER

FRED’S FIREARMS BRONZE

THE BUTLER’S PANTRY BRONZE

Handcrafted Jewelry

Home Electronics

BARNWOOD ARMS, RIPON GOLD

MAMTA HARRIS GOLD

ENVY FINE CLOTHING SILVER FAITH WEAR DESIGNS BRONZE

Hardware Store

SCHEMPERS ACE HARDWARE, RIPON GOLD

FARM HOUSE, TURLOCK GOLD

BORDONA’S HOME FURNISHINGS, OAKDALE GOLD KIRKES ELECTRIC, TURLOCK SILVER

Home Lighting

MANTECA LIGHTING GOLD

RUSTIC ROOTS BRONZE

ACE HARDWARE, ESCALON BRONZE

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COSTCO, TURLOCK BRONZE

Men’s Clothes

ENVY FINE CLOTHING GOLD CAMARA’S CLOTHING, TURLOCK SILVER BOOT BARN BRONZE

Olive Oil Business SCIABICA’S GOLD

THE GREENERY, TURLOCK GOLD RAINFOREST NURSERY, MANTECA SILVER

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PARTY CITY GOLD

GRAND EVENTS, MODESTO SILVER

Home / Garden Store

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WOODS FURNITURE GALLERY, TURLOCK SILVER

Party Supplies

ACE HARDWARE, STOCKTON BRONZE

ACE HARDWARE, MODESTO SILVER

MANTECA BEDQUARTERS GOLD

SCARLATA FARMS, TRACY BRONZE

PHILLIPS LIGHTING, MODESTO SILVER

THE CHRISTMAS LIGHT GUY GOLD

Mattress / Bedding

OLIVE OIL PANTRY, MANTECA SILVER

COSTCO BRONZE

ACE HARDWARE, ESCALON SILVER

Holiday Lighting

P&L ESCALON BRONZE

FARM HOUSE, TURLOCK BRONZE

Place to buy Art

THE GALLERY FINESSE GOLD MEMORIES FOR THE MAKING, LODI SILVER

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CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER, TURLOCK BRONZE

Thrift Store

Second Hand Bookstore

NEW & AGAIN, LODI SILVER

HOPE CHEST, MODESTO GOLD

Women’s Accessories

LIGHTLY USED BOOKS, TURLOCK GOLD

NEARLY NEW, MANTECA BRONZE

YESTERDAY’S BOOKS, MODESTO SILVER

Toy Store

THE BOOK EXCHANGE, MANTECA BRONZE

ENVY FINE CLOTHING SILVER

Shoe Store

BURTON’S SHOES, LODI GOLD

HANDS ON BRONZE

Unique Local Shop MAIN STREET ANTIQUES, TURLOCK GOLD

ENVY FINE CLOTHING BRONZE

DIGS SILVER

Shopping Mall / Center

MOBAAK AROMATHERAPY SHOPPE BRONZE

LINCOLN CENTER, STOCKTON SILVER VINTAGE FAIRE MALL, MODESTO BRONZE

Sporting Goods

DICK’S SPORTING GOODS, TURLOCK GOLD ANDERSON’S BIKE SHOP, MANTECA SILVER BILSON’S SPORTING GOODS BRONZE

ENVY FINE CLOTHING SILVER

Women’s Clothes STELLA MITCHELL GOLD

GLITZ FINE CLOTHING, TURLOCK SILVER ENVY FINE CLOTHING BRONZE

Upscale Second Hand Clothing THREADS CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE GOLD NEARLY NEW, MANTECA SILVER PLATO’S CLOSET BRONZE

Western Clothing

BUCKSWORTH WESTERN WEAR, OAKDALE GOLD JOE HASSAN’S CLOTHING, LODI SILVER

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THREADS CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE GOLD

EVE & ME BRONZE

TARGET GOLD

FLEET FEET SILVER

MCHENRY VILLAGE, MODESTO GOLD

OAKDALE FEED & SEED BRONZE

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Celebrating

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208 E. Main Street, Turlock 209-669-7000

AM

WE’ VE GOT THE 209 COVERED.

Voted BEST Gift Shop & Home Decor In the 209

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www.shopfarmhouse.com Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm Follow us on Facebook & Instagram!

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our story is simple... the purest of diamonds and mastercraftmanship

downtown turlock • vailcreek.com • 209-667-4653

Thank you for voting us #1

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Thank You

For Your Vote!

Voted Best Hardware Store!

Locally owned, serving the Ripon area for 65 years with great product selection and exceptional customer service, ACE the helpful place.

15% OFF*

*regularly priced merchandise excluding watches

Schemper’s

“Celebrating 31 Years! ”

150 North Wilma Avenue Ripon, CA 95366

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3200 Sisk Road, Modesto, CA 95356 Tuesday - Saturday, 10-6 Sunday 11-3 (209) 524-7746 • www.ciccarellijewelers.com

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Hardware

Mon-Fri 7am - 8pm Sat 7:30am - 6pm • Sun 9am - 5pm

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New ways to shop & buy in-store New ways to shop & buy online

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Coming Soon!

225 Lander Ave., Turlock 209.656.2392 WoodsFurniture.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

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Voted Best Grocery Store

We Create

Pair authentic made in store Chips & Salsa with Craft Beers.

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Made fresh daily baked goods!

Pair specialty meats with the finest wines.

ART CUSTOM ART

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BEST GROCERY STORE

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Craft Beer Specialists.

BEST DELI

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Ready-To-Go Meals!

LETTERMAN JACKET DESIGN CARTOON DRAWINGS COMIC BOOK DRAWINGS

Specialty Cheeses & Crackers.

Ready-To-Go Grilling Meals!

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To the 209 from

Village Fresh Market Thank You!

Its an honor and privilege to serve you.

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2090 East Canal Drive Turlock CA | Villagefresh.com

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thegreatoutdoors

Beauty of Backpacking 50 Lessons in 50 Years

Inyo National Forest: Backpackers trek past Split Mountain in Inyo National Forest.

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W

hen the first wild bear I ever saw up close wandered past my backcountry camp, I grabbed my camera and shot pictures like mad.

Bears appear to Yosemite tourists all the time yet had somehow eluded me during my first several years of park visits. Unwisely, I followed the bruin as I finished a roll

of film and even loaded another.

My fellow forest-dweller didn’t like it and let me know with a snarl and sudden step in my direction.

The bear’s bluff charge nearly made my heart leap out of my chest. I got the message and backed off, a bit wiser than before.

Fifty years of outdoor experiences have taught me a few things

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which I hope are worth sharing.

Through this series, I offer you 50 tips to judge for yourself. This column, the fourth of five, focuses on backpacking. Whether you go for a few days in a nearby park or a few months on the Pacific Crest Trail, a wide and wonderful world awaits those willing to trek into the wilderness. ●

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thegreatoutdoors

Desolation Wilderness: Only backpackers get to see views like this at Desolation Wilderness.

or gadgets break, you need a backup plan.

Surprisingly few backpackers possess map and compass skills, but those who do avoid costly route-finding errors. By the way, when something looks wrong, stop and reassess. You won’t find your course correction just over the next hill. Chances are, it’s behind you.

Watch out for water.

This greatest necessity also weighs more than anything else, so it’s important to carry the right amount and plan ahead on where to refill your bottles. Guidebooks, maps, and fellow hikers can all provide this information on dry stretches of trail.

While I hesitate to rely on electronics, many hikers use apps like Guthook which provide up-to-date information about seasonal water sources. In addition, filter water you suspect of contamination.

This isn’t always necessary but err on the side of caution, especially around livestock.

Start easy and build up gradually.

Hiking out to camp for a single night will help you learn to make a longer trip more comfortable. Of course, it helps considerably if you exercise and attain good fitness before a backpacking trip, especially a long one. Try taking some day hikes with your pack first, both to build your strength and to test your pack weight.

Avoid mosquito bites and don’t let the bugs bug you.

First, time your outings to avoid the pesky bloodsuckers, which hatch during spring in the lowlands and then work their way up the mountains through summer. Second, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to guard against them. Many use chemicals like DEET which definitely help, but those concerned about their possible health hazards can get by without them by observing the first two tips.

Mosquitoes are thankfully less numerous following a dry winter like we had this year.

Travel light.

The less your pack weighs, the easier and happier your hiking becomes. This sounds obvious and yet we all learn the hard way. For instance, do you really need a tent? In many situations, just a sleeping bag and camping mattress get you through the night comfortably. Shoot for a base weight of 20 pounds or less; some ultralight experts get under ten pounds. Even veteran backpackers find new ways to shed weight as ever-lighter gear reaches the market.

Consider these gear suggestions.

Hiking poles will help take the pressure off your knees when you climb or descend hills. Some people swear by hiking boots but lighter options work too; I often wear running shoes. Wear whatever footwear you choose around before your backpacking trip to ensure your comfort. Sandals let you take off your shoes in the evening and give your feet a break.

Ansel Adams Wilderness: The author and companions relished a visit to Ediza Lake in Ansel Adams Wilderness.

Learn to use a map and compass Don’t rely exclusively on electronics to navigate.

Phone apps and GPS devices work great, until they don’t. When batteries die, signals disappear

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Whether you go for a few days in a nearby park or a few months on the Pacific Crest Trail, a wide and wonderful world awaits those willing to trek into the wilderness.

Additionally, take steps to protect wildlife from effects of your passage. In bear country, carry a bear can; hanging your food bag from a tree rarely works well. Clean your camp and don’t leave out food for any animals to access. Dependence on human handouts means death for our furry friends.

I try to hit the trail for a few days or weeks every year. Every trip produces special memories. When I look back at some years, my backpacking trips are the events I remember best about them.

Spotting wildlife always delivers thrills, too. I’ve been fortunate to spot bald eagles, California condors, rattlesnakes, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, and quite a few bears. I love taking pictures of them, which I happily shoot from a respectful distance.

Sierra Sunrise: Early risers enjoy a High Sierra sunrise.

Leaves of three, leave them be!

Learn to recognize poison oak. The enemy’s leaves are green in spring and summer, red in fall, and fall off the plant in winter, but the stems are still dangerous. Thankfully, the oily plant doesn’t grow above 5,000 feet and presents no problem on high elevation hikes. But when in doubt, touch nothing suspicious. If you do touch it, wash your skin and clothes. Good idea to wash your dog too.

Bring fishing gear if you’re camping somewhere with angling potential. Backcountry lakes and streams deliver far better action than more easilyreached fishing holes. Fish bite best in the early morning and evening hours. It doesn’t take much tackle or expertise to land a few in the right waters, and doing so will make you a hero in your camp.

Be realistic about your schedule, especially at elevation. Mountain miles take more time and energy than lowland ones. When my family first hiked a segment of the John Muir Trail, we seriously underestimated the difficulty and time required, forcing us to march 20 miles out on our last day. The trail doesn’t care if you’re in a hurry. You’ll enjoy yourself more if you take adequate time.

Finally, leave wildlife alone!

For starters, don’t stalk a bear like I foolishly did.

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PHOTOS BY MATT JOHANSON

Shadow Lake: Sun sets on a summer day at Shadow Lake.

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thegreatoutdoors

IMPROVING MY GAME WITH

PRO HELP

BACKROUND PHOTO BY TYLER HENDY/ Pexels

W

hen most people begin to play a new sport, they usually have a coach or take lessons to help train them and teach them the rules of the game. I first started golfing as an excuse to get out of the house and go hang out with my buddies after work, so five years ago when I first started swinging a club around, I had no idea what I was doing. I could still say the same up until a few weeks ago when I decided to change that.

Golf is one of the hardest games to play and for some reason I thought I could learn the tricks of the trade by myself. Between YouTube, Google and the various golf influencers I follow online, I thought I had all the knowledge I needed at my disposal. But online tutorials and tips can only get you so far when playing such a complex sport.

Over the last few months of playing, I’ve felt like I hit a plateau with my game.

I’ve been shooting consistent scores, but I still wasn’t pleased with where my game was at. I was struggling with a bad slice when hitting my driver and I was hitting very inconsistent shots with my irons. I have a decent swing, but I find myself chunking and topping my irons too often. So, after struggling for five years and torturing myself trying teach myself how to play, I finally decided to book some golf lessons and learn from a professional.

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By SETH CLARK

For a right-handed player like myself, a slice is when you accidentally hit the ball and it curves to the right. A hook is when you hit and the ball curves to the left. A chunked shot, also known as hitting it fat, means that you’ve hit the ground before making contact with ball, and topping the ball is when you hit on the top of the ball causing it bounce or roll.

There are so many reasons why a person could play poor golf, and when trying to analyze your game by yourself it can be difficult unless you’ve been playing for many years or are a professional. I’m not sure why it took me so long to book a set

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of lessons, but after only two lessons so far, I’m so happy that I made the decision to try and better my game.

Finding a golf pro isn’t a hard task at all. With a little online searching you can find a coach at almost any course near you.

Before booking lessons though, it would be wise to assess your goals and figure out why you want lessons in the first place.

When you contact an instructor, they will first ask why you’re booking lessons and what it is you’re looking to fix.

I live in Turlock, so the closest course to me is River Oaks in Ceres. I’ve played this course for years, so I already knew a little bit about their PGA professional Greg Silva, but had never met him prior to my lessons. I have a few friends that have booked lessons with him in the past and they all had great things to say. After completing two lessons with Silva, I can honestly say that their praises were well justified.

Upon first meeting Silva, he made it clear that his love for the game is unlike any other person I’ve met. He has been teaching golf for 56 years and it has all been to help grow the 209MAGAZINE.COM

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thegreatoutdoors

game and teach young, up-and-coming players to fall in love with the sport.

He started playing golf when he was 10 years old and the time, he was given the nickname “thousand questions” for his never-ending search for answers. While on a trip to visit family in Utah, Silva’s mother signed him up for a golf tournament.

Unknown to both Silva and his mother, she had signed him up for a professional tournament. Silva would go on to place first while breaking the course record, scoring a 10 under 62 complete with a hole in one on the third hole. He walked away with his professional status, the prize money and a ‘64 Cadillac convertible. Pretty impressive for a 17-year-old high school junior.

Upon returning to California, Silva started working for his father who was also a golf pro in Modesto. Since then, Silva has been teaching the great game of golf and establishing an impressive resume. In 1967, he set the course record at Tracy Golf and Country Club. He had five eagles and 13 pars, which also set a record for most eagles in a tournament.

I paid only $170 for a set of four lessons, which is a fair price for the knowledge gained. Most golf lessons can cost double that depending on the area you live in or the person giving the lessons. But it’s never been about the money for Silva. He leaves no doubt that his reason for teaching is to help spread the knowledge he’s gained through such a lengthy and prestigious golf career.

During my first lesson with Silva, he watched me swing and hit a few balls.

We went through the basics such as grip, stance, alignment, tempo, etc.

I won’t go into great detail so I don’t give away his knowledge for free, but for the most part he said I had a good swing and he thought I could be a decent player.

The one thing he called me out on right away, though, was

my grip. I was gripping the clubs the wrong way. At first, I was completely unsure of this new grip because it really weakened my right hand and I started spraying the ball in every direction besides straight, but after a few weeks of practice, I have finally become more comfortable with the way I’m holding my clubs.

My second lesson was focused on swing drills and repetition. Silva taught me the proper swing plane and how to improve my muscle memory off the course so that when I pick up a club, my body knows what to do without thinking too much. Golf is just as much of a mental battle as it is physical. You need to train your body and mind so as not to get distracted over the ball.

No coach is going to be an instant miracle worker or be able to fix your swing over night, but from the times I’ve gone to the range since changing my grip, I feel like I am hitting straighter, more consistent shots. I have yet to play a round with my new swing, so after a few more practice sessions and lessons I’m going to have to put my newfound knowledge to the test.

I look forward to finishing my next two lessons with Silva and seeing what new knowledge I can pick form his brain. I feel lucky to have found such an experienced mentor who is so accessible. I will be updating you all in the next issue to let you know everything I have learned and see how it translates to playing the game on an actual course. Wish me luck as I embark on the path of golf enlightenment, and until next time, hit it hard. ●

I’m not sure why it took me so long to book a set of lessons, but after only two lessons so far, I’m so happy that I made the decision to try and better my game.

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fulloflife

By TERESA HAMMOND

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S

o here we are … the “Best of ” issue.

Truth be told, it’s one of my favorites. As a publication driven on all things 209, this issue helps highlight some of the best of the best for our 209 community members, as well as those passing through.

Each issue, as one column idea comes to a close for this space I’m faced by … what’s next?

As a columnist, it’s not always easy knowing what thoughts to share – and there are many. The struggle or challenge is always the thought of what’s relatable or helpful for our readers. Now of course, the reality in this is that it’s not a one size fits all publication and neither is this column. My goal and/or wish, however, remains the same, with each issue I hope to gain the attention of one new reader. Life after all isn’t one size fits all either, so as I may share a topic relatable to the runner, yogi or mom in one issue, the next may connect with someone battling cancer, going through divorce or simply just trying to get through the days with a smile.

Hence the segue to this issue’s topic, inspired by the issue theme of “Best of.”

In previous issues I’ve shared that while 2020 threw the world the curveball of COVID I was thrown a separate curveball of cancer.

Now 16 months post-diagnosis life has begun to take

shape to something which is somewhat recognizable. In truth the task of overcoming Stage 3 Breast Cancer was a bit more involved than I had envisioned, but we’ll save that for another issue.

Looking at life now, versus one year ago is much, much different and as I thought to this issue I challenged myself with making it a bit more personal. Sharing the Best of the 209 as a magazine, inspired me to personally think of what it means to be the best me.

Case in point, it’s taken some discipline as well as deep thought in silence to recognize that the shutdown (as well as cancer) had some less than favorable effects on me personally. In mid-June as I began returning to our office, I quickly recognized how much I’d missed being in this space.

Now as I type this from an area Starbuck’s I find myself invigorated by the music, the people in passing, the conversation and just the overall energy.

During the past year, while my tribe focused on my

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illness and helping me heal and recover, my focus was honestly on my children and my partner. A fact I didn’t truly realize until the world reopened and things around our home began returning to normal. Suddenly the things which kept me occupied as I helped each of them, was no longer needed. It was time for me to return to some normalcy, just as they had.

The shutdown had such a major impact on each of us in numerous different ways, yet this I never saw coming.

The happiest people I know are evaluating and improving themselves.

The unhappy people are usually evaluating and judging others.

It’s the pivot, which so many have talked about.

Looking ahead, as well as thinking of this issue, I’ve challenged myself to utilize the lessons from the most recent path to make myself better. Not perfect, but better. For me that always begins with fitness and while I love to be outside, I also like to see the reward of calorie

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burn … so on the treadmill I went.

I’ve also taken the time to arrange for lunch and coffee dates with friends I’ve truly missed, socializing feeds my soul and laughter, well, it is the best medicine.

In addition, corny as it may sound, each morning when I wake I reflect on the day before and what I could have done different or better. I’ve also stopped letting the anger of others get the best of me. Whether we realize it or not, we remain in an angry time, as people are still recovering from the lack of … well, everything.

I recognized that anger in myself not that long ago and it saddened me. My life is a good life; I’m blessed in many ways. I shared my concern about this with my mother who, being the sounding board that she is, shared it made perfect sense given the year I’ve had.

I’d like to say I was at peace with that, but I’m not.

So now as I look to the final months of 2021, I’m simply checking back in with myself and getting back to basics and then rebuild from there. We’re never too old, experienced or knowledgeable to not strive for better.

This quote I happened upon recently pretty much sums it up: “The happiest people I know are evaluating and improving themselves.

The unhappy people are usually evaluating and judging others.” – Unknown ●

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fulloflife

Fitness from

above the shoulders

By TERESA HAMMOND

Your journey can be as fulfilling and exciting and rewarding as any other athlete if you just stop wanting to be that other athlete. Focus on writing the best possible ending to the story that is uniquely yours. ­—Matt Fitzgerald

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I

t’s a book which could not be timelier for the masses. While its cover may cause some to shy away, ‘The Comeback Quotient’ by Matt Fitzgerald isn’t a book simply about running and fitness.

Located on the cover, just below an image of Olympic Marathon runner Molly Seidel, are the words “A get-real guide to building mental fitness in sport and life,” which could not be truer.

Through the pages of the book, Fitzgerald examines mental fitness through the stories of elite, as well as recreational athletes. He also includes mini chapters in the book documenting his comeback as an Ironman tri-athlete.

“The reason I included that element is because I wanted to show readers that I’m not just peddling this message because I think it sounds good and I can sell a lot of books,” Fitzgerald shared. “I wanted people to recognize that I believe in this stuff to the point that I practice it in my own athletic endeavors, which matters to me. I’m not going to play around with methods that don’t work.”

The “stuff ” and “methods” the author speaks of specifically are the mindset of the “ultra-realist” and the application and usage of the mindset to endurance sports.

“It’s not just the physical that make elites, elite,” the author said. “It takes something above the neck to get to the top in running. It’s just the psyche of the ultra-realist, someone who just is not afraid to look at reality no matter how bad it is or getting.”

As the concept is demonstrated through the stories of elite, as well as recreational runners overcoming significant setbacks, the stories are told in such a way that even the non-athlete can

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learn and benefit from the takeaway.

“Not to say rec athletes don’t have that, some do, some don’t – yet there is a difference,” Fitzgerald further noted.

The concept, as well as title for the book, Fitzgerald shared was presented to him by his editor at VeloPress.

“I’d been wanting to write a book about what is uniquely different about athletes … basically a book that is able to address what is mental fitness and who has it and who doesn’t,” he said. “How do you get it, if they don’t have it.”

The book examines the concept and does for the reader what Fitzgerald does for his one-on-one clients as a trainer.

“I believe these ideas are true. I believe they have relevance for the endurance athlete or anyone who’s trying to come back from some type of adversity,” Fitzgerald stated. “It’s just a matter of how do you connect it in a way which is useful.”

As a long time endurance athlete who happens to earn a living writing books, articles and coaching other athletes, Fitzgerald himself has also found personal occasion to put the concept into practice.

Some might say most recently that would be the case more than ever before.

Just as the book was being released, Fitzgerald began experiencing some physical setbacks.

The writer shared he contracted COVID-19 in March of 2020, early in to the pandemic as well as the testing and diagnosis. Following a month of feeling sicker than he’s ever felt, he slowly began returning to regular activity. By October of 2020 he described having a really bad workout, which led to a series of bad workouts. Research, testing and more research eventually led the lifetime athlete to learn he has Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome or Long COVID. It’s an after effect of the virus, which while not “active” or contagious, is very present to the individual living with it.

“It’s sort of like some pain condition,” he said. “It hurts one minute, it doesn’t hurt the next and you can’t completely put your

finger on it.

“Some symptoms come and go, some don’t really bother you,” he continued. “Mostly you adapt. There’s no cure. The thing is not fully understood.”

Since learning of his acute illness, the author has drastically changed his daily routine from hours in the gym, cycling and running each week to walking with his wife several days a week.

“Practicing what I preach and the reality of it … accepting the reality of it,” he said of the lessons learned post-COVID. “You know there’s a difference between acceptance and resignation and I am not resigned.”

While not resigned, he is an ultra-realist.

“How okay can I be? How happy can I be? How productive can I be if things don’t get better,” Fitzgerald said. “The virus is gone, but it’s left its calling card and you’re never the same again.”

The author went on to share he’s learned it’s okay to face reality, to admit to being weak and have self-doubt.

“If it’s true, it’s better to put it out on the table,” he said. “You can’t solve a problem, you’re not willing to identify. Being okay with being authentic.”

Applying the ultra-realist concept to his own current chapter of life, Fitzgerald shared, it was surprisingly easy, when he realized he would have to give up running.

“The handwriting was on the wall,” he said.

And now he is moving forward with a positive mindset.

“Comparison is the thief of joy. No matter who you are, be happy to be you,” the ultra-realist concluded. “Your journey can be as fulfilling and exciting and rewarding as any other athlete if you just stop wanting to be that other athlete. Focus on writing the best possible ending to the story that is uniquely yours.” ●

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fulloflife

By TERESA HAMMOND

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he year 2020 and early 2021 brought many lessons to residents of the 209, as well as throughout the country. Forced to slow down and shut down, many learned through the COVID-19 pandemic to do more than be still, but be well.

Self-care and services offering a little pampering proved to be just as important or more so, as the industry for many was put on hold.

As the owner of Natural Path Wellness Center in Ripon, Jennifer Komatsu shared just a handful of months into the pandemic the need for their services quickly became apparent. Reopening last June, she and her staff were available for clients that had doctor’s notes deeming their services “essential.”

Looking to an issue packed with many of the 209’s “Best of,” Komatsu offered insight as to how readers may care for themselves to also be the “Best of their personal self.”

“We build from the inside of our body to the outside. That’s where wellness for me comes from, from the inside,” Komatsu stated, sharing thoughts that massage is the gateway to wellness.

“Once people are comfortable with that then they might expand a little more,” she said. “People should feel they deserve it. They deserve to take care of themselves.”

Self-care practices such as daily meditation, frequent massage, facials, foot treatments and detoxes are just the start of helping one release stress, as well as negative energy which can fester in the body.

“When we’re stressed and our level of stress gets out there, our words are not kind sometimes, our smiles not kind, our hugs are not kind,” the wellness specialist shared. “When we really take the time to do all of that, that’s when you feel health within the body and that’s where it begins.

“It’s festering in their organs, in their heart and in their soul,” Komatsu continued, when speaking of stress.  209MAGAZINE.COM

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We build from the inside of our body to the outside. That’s where wellness for me comes from, from the inside.

— Jennifer Komatsu

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fulloflife

Energy work may also be helpful as it opens up the chakra to let the flow of energy recalibrate. Once again re-building above, down, inside out. A practice which Komatsu shared most clients become open to after experiencing the multiple benefits of regular massage.

“All massage therapists are different and offer different benefits to a client,” she shared. “It’s important to be seen once a month and people learn that as they go. It’s important for people to relax and let go. Massage moves the lymphatic system, stimulating circulation, breaking up scar tissue. It allows us to be able to function better.”

Wellness experts as a whole believe connection is so important to the individuals’ overall health. Affecting everything from head to toe, including digestion and overall gut health. The belief being holding on to negative energy of living a life of high stress can have multiple effects on one’s overall health.

“You have to find a balance in life,” she said.

“Balance is being able to take care of you, so you can take care of everybody else and not burn your adrenals out.

“It’s so much more than just digestion,” Komatsu said of gut health. “We have a lot of people that are constipated and don’t know you’re supposed to eliminate more than once a day.”

This can and often does result in bloating, cortisol levels change and an unhealthy liver.

Things that can change naturally with diet and supplements.

“You have to be ready on your wellness journey and everybody is in a different place on their wellness,” she said of achieving your best of. “It’s a lifestyle change. We feel like we’re selfish if we take care of ourselves. We don’t deserve to take care of ourselves or it’s not accepted, but that’s our number one thing. We could be so good if we just take care of ourselves. So much better and it’s just the ability to do that.” ● 209MAGAZINE.COM

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fulloflife

offers fitness with frequency

By ANGELINA MARTIN

and Saturday, and silent disco full body workouts on Sundays. usband and wife duo Aaron and Kate Unruh set They also host events periodically, like their upcoming out to create a new culture in the Valley — one that Strawberry Moon Flow silent disco which will feature a yoga would get the community outdoors and give them a session, refreshments, a virtual photo booth and a dance floor chance to heal both mentally and physically. Their idea maniunder the moon on June 24. A majority of events are held in fested itself through Valley Vibes, which offers fitness with Turlock parks, Kate said, and the community can register for frequency through noise-cancelling headphones, some stellar classes and events on the Valley Vibes website. beats and guided workouts.

It is Kate and Aaron’s hope that Valley Kate Unruh and her husband moved Vibes will continue to grow; they to Turlock from San Francisco about frequently participate in pop-up two years ago, she said, which is events and hope to be present at where they were first introduced to Hopefully we can more, and as time passes, they plan silent disco activities. From dance help people discover on offering more classes and hostparties to yoga sessions, silent something new and ing more events. It’s also their goal discos allow the participant to help them get excited to give back to the community; the immerse themselves in a world all business recently hosted a clean-up their own thanks to noise cancelabout taking care of day which saw them pick up trash ling headphones which play the their physical health and in downtown Turlock. same music for everyone taking mental health in a fun and part.

Though they’ve only been operatexciting way.

To someone walking by, these ing for a couple of months, Valley events look completely silent. To Vibes is already making an impres­—Kate Unruh those dancing or exercising, howsion on Turlock. ever, it’s a private party that only “I think the reaction has been they understand. really wonderful and so exciting for “I absolutely loved the vibe and the us. We’ve created a little community, and whole scene of the silent disco,” Kate said. “When you arone of our biggest goals is making connections with as many rived, you felt so welcome...Once we moved out here and the people as we can,” Kate said. “Hopefully we can help people pandemic hit, it was so difficult to get that interaction with discover something new and help them get excited about other people. taking care of their physical health and mental health in a fun “It just seemed like the perfect business for us to start and exciting way.” ● because the headsets allow for social distancing, and it really gives people a chance to connect and create friendships.”

For more information, visit www.valley-vibes.com or call Valley Vibes offers silent disco yoga classes every Friday 626-421-8304.

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placecalledhome

By MARG JACKSON

F

rom the street, the home looks inviting – with a well-maintained front yard – but it is what you find out the back door that transports you to a place of peace and serenity.

Hidden away, tucked between the Stanislaus River and the street named River Bluff in Oakdale, longtime retired educator Gary Jones has crafted a unique garden retreat.

“I’ve lived here since 2015,” Jones, who moved to Oakdale from Turlock, said about settling in the River Bluff Drive home.

He grew up in the Valley and his career included several years as the assistant superintendent with the Hughson Unified School District as well as part time work teaching at both Modesto Junior College and Stanislaus State.

“It has been two years now that I’ve been completely retired,” Jones said.

And he has spent much of that time turning his backyard, which slopes down from the back porch toward a bluff overlooking the Stanislaus River, into a peaceful garden setting that includes a seating area, work shed, a chicken coop, water fountain and plans for more.

His sister, Bonnie Jones-Lee, also is an avid gardener with a home along the river and the two were both enrolled in the Master Gardener program offered through the University of California at Davis. The program is overseen in Stanislaus County by Anne Schell209MAGAZINE.COM

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man. They were graduates of the first class, which underwent the extensive training from January through June in 2019.

There is a new class for Master Gardeners planned in January 2022 and applications are being taken now; both highly recommend the class, noting that the training is beneficial in many ways. From learning about trees, flowers, fruits and vegetables and insects, the two said the class is a great hands-on experience and teaches the way to approach gardening for the best chance at success in the Central Valley.

Happy to promote the UC Davis-based training, Jones said he and his sister have staffed booths at the Oakdale and Modesto farmer’s markets to provide information about the Master Gardener program.

For Jones, the backyard garden gem wasn’t formally sketched out. Much like a garden, it took root and grew from there.

“It just kind of happened,” agreed Jones. “My first thing was I needed to do something to get down (the backyard slope), so we put the stairs in first.”

The back porch runs the length of the house, leading to the stairs. Fashioned with railroad ties, the stairs take you down to a couple of different terraced levels of garden greenery. The railroad ties, Jones said, were purchased both at Conlin Supply in Oakdale and at Modesto Feed.

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COLORS Splashes of color are evident throughout the backyard garden retreat of Gary Jones in Oakdale, sandwiched between his back porch and the Stanislaus River beyond the bluff.

STEPS A view from the lower garden level shows the railroad tie-steps that lead up to the back porch through the greenery of a garden planted and maintained by Gary Jones of Oakdale.

His brother-in-law Alvin Lee put together a garden shed so there was plenty of room for Jones to work. Known as a cord house because the shed is roughly the size that would fit a cord of wood inside, there are cedar rounds incorporated into the design. The rounds are cut from wood that was reclaimed from burned out trees on property that Jones has in the Sierras. The door is also unique; in its previous life it was a classroom door at Magnolia Elementary School in Oakdale.

“That inspired me to get things going and I just kept adding stuff,” Jones noted of having the cord house/garden shed with his tools nearby. “It’s

just so peaceful … I spend a minimum of an hour and a half out here every day … being retired, I’m able to do that.”

Close enough to the river to enjoy a cooling breeze, Jones also said the backyard affords him a view of a variety of wildlife, from foxes to deer to plenty of raccoons.

The garden features a number of flowers, trees and just outside the gate are berry bushes with berries ripe for the picking. A recent add-on was the chicken coop, with some young Rhode Island Red chicks that should be providing eggs by this fall.

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PHOTOS BY MARG JACKSON/209 Magazine

instilled by their grandmother, as well as a great aunt and uncle who were farmers in Northern California.

“We spent a lot of time there,” Jones said of the farm.

“And our other sister is also a gardener.”

That sister, Karen Bonzi, lives in Turlock.

“We need more gardens, it’s a way to provide plants for the insects and birds, and there are plants that can be put in that are water wise and sustainable,” added Bonnie.

Jones does not use pesticides in his garden, preferring to go the organic route.

The Oakdale Garden Club Fall Tour, being planned for Oct. 9, will include a stop

at the River Bluff home of Jones. He plans to stay busy until then to make sure the garden is ready for its day on display. He is also part of a group working with the City of Oakdale to establish a community garden that would feature vegetables as well as flowers. While there is a lot of paperwork to do in connection with that effort, Jones said he hopes eventually the idea will come to fruition.

For now, however, he enjoys the time spent tending to all that grows outside his own back door.

“Typically, there’s always something blooming out here,” Jones summarized. “It’s like my little paradise.” ●

FOUNTAIN A small water feature offers some peaceful background bubbling in the River Bluff garden of Oakdale resident Gary Jones, which also includes a view of the Stanislaus River.

Surrounded by growing flowers, the garden shed, a chicken coop and water fountain, Gary Jones has plenty to smile about as his backyard retreat is the perfect way to spend time in retirement.

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placecalledhome

By MEGAN KUHN

T

he Ripon Garden Club is once again inviting the public to tour a few of their finest gardens.

The Ripon Garden Stroll will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept.

11 and feature six homes located throughout the small San Joaquin County town.

The stroll will present a variety of lush foliage, exotic pottery and patios perfect for entertaining family and friends. Visitors are sure to be inspired by diverse textures and vibrant flowers while admiring the personal touches and stories each gardener has integrated into their yards. From sculpted hedges and glistening pools to greenhouses and tortoise enclosures, this year’s tour provides a beautiful collection of creative gardens.

A silent auction and a chance to win prizes in a drawing will be located at the refreshment station as well.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children under 12; no strollers please. Tour tickets can be purchased in Ripon at Schemper’s Ace

Hardware, Parks Greenhouse Nursery and Thompson’s Nursery. In Manteca at RainForest Nursery. In Escalon at P&L Garden Center and Creative Water Gardens. Tickets are also available at the Greenery Nursery & Garden Shop in Turlock. In Riverbank at Morris Nursery and in Modesto at Westurf Nursery.

The Ripon Garden Club was first created in 1954 as a non-profit with the goal of protecting native plants and insects, to encourage civic beauty, and further educate the community about the environment. The club is led by a group of volunteers joined by a love of gardening and dedicated to giving back to the community.

Proceeds from the September Garden Stroll support scholarships provided to graduating high school seniors and community college transfer students in pursuit of an environmental or agricultural focused degree. Funds also support current projects such as Ripon’s downtown flower pots, Garden Therapy, school gardens and education, arbor day activities, Penny Pines, and the Blue Star Memorial. The Ripon Garden Club also works to conserve the dwindling monarch butterfly population by maintaining their butterfly garden in Stouffer Park.

Join the Ripon Garden Club at their monthly meeting every first Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the American Legion Hall, 206 Stockton Ave. in Ripon. Guests may attend for free or become a member for $20/year.

Learn more atRiponGardenClub.org and check them out on Facebook. ●

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marketplace

By ANGELINA MARTIN

W

ith the start of fall right around the corner, there’s no better way to welcome the arrival of colorful leaves and pumpkin everything than with a refreshing glass of cider in the heart of Mariposa.

Sierra Cider offers that and more through their immersive, hands-on experience, which takes visitors through the orchard-to-bottle process of turning apples into the ultimate autumnal adult beverage.

Sierra Cider owners Dana Tiel and David Bailey always dreamed of living in a place like Mariposa, with rolling hills and plenty of space.

Beginning in August 2020, the couple spent weeks perusing websites in search of farmland for sale until eventually stumbling upon the cidery about a year ago. The original owners of Sierra Cider were selling the business — along with the 16 acres of Mariposa countryside surrounding it.

“We had a nice home in LA, but we were starting to think about children and the kind of lifestyle we wanted to raise them in. I saw the listing for this amazing cider company and

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thought it was perfect,” Tiel said. “We’re both in marketing and wouldn’t have to throw our entire careers away, and we thought we could use our skills to promote the brand and learn how to make cider.”

By October 2020, the husband-andwife duo had closed a deal on the cidery. It was almost like they were meant to find the listing, Tiel said, since the pair loves all things fall. Their wedding was Halloween-themed, and they usually spend the season in search of farms selling apple cider donuts.

After Tiel and Bailey purchased Sierra Cider, its original owners Dave and Beth Lancaster stayed on as consultants and taught their successors everything about making the drink. They still live next door and have become the couples’ best friends, Tiel said.

“They’ve made sure we know exactly what to do and how to make cider the

way they did it,” Tiel said. “Everything is kind of serendipitous, the way it all worked out.”

While Tiel and Bailey had a bit of a green thumb prior to purchasing the cidery, their backyard Los Angeles garden was a bit easier to manage than 800 apple trees. There’s been a learning curve in taking over and running their own business, but their prior experience has helped make the transition easier.

By December 2020 Tiel and Bailey had picked their first crop of 3,000 apples.

“We had tons of fears diving into this headfirst and we knew we were doing something crazy. It was terrifying,” Tiel said. “We’re finally getting the hang of it though and feel prepared.”

Mariposa is the gateway to Yosemite National Park, which has welcomed significantly fewer guests over the past 17 months due to the coronavirus pandemic. This gave Tiel and Bailey 209MAGAZINE.COM

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time to perfect their craft, however, and the cidery now offers orchard tours and tastings which can be booked by phone, email or even on Airbnb Experiences.

There are four different varieties of cider to choose from if you visit: Dry Summer Blend, Early Harvest, Farmhouse Style and Kingston Black Blend.

From searching online for their dream property to now living on it and providing the 209 with delicious ciders, Tiel and Bailey can’t believe their luck.

“Mariposa is like a perfect little town you’d see on a postcard,” Tiel said. “We never want to leave.” ● Sierra Cider is located at 5569 Meadow Lane in Mariposa. Visitors are required to call, text or email to book a tasting before visiting the property and can do so at 209-347-6161 or hello@sierracider.com. For more information about Sierra Cider, visit www.sierracider.com.

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marketplace

By SABRA STAFFORD

209MAGAZINE.COM

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I

n a forest of giant pines and ancient black oaks with the Sierra Nevadas in the background, Better Place Forests is giving people a unique option for a final resting place.

Just 45-minutes from Yosemite National Park and near the Don Pedro reservoir, Better Place Yosemite Gateway is a peaceful 172 acres to use as a sustainable alternative to cemeteries for families who choose cremation.

The conservation memorial forest protects and preserves the land and will allow local families who choose cremation a new option to lay their loved ones to rest underneath a private and permanently protected tree native to the land.

The forest includes an historic homestead teeming with wetland plants and fruit orchards dating back to 1883. The mountain meadow ecosystem is a rare and critical part of the broader Sierra Mountain ecosystem that protects the health and resiliency of the area’s rivers and biodiversity. Mountain meadows make up only 2 percent of the Sierra Nevada landscape and are critical to support the mountain species we know and love. It also helps protect a migratory pathway for wildlife, like black bears, mule deer, and black-tailed jackrabbits.

The idea for Better Place Forests came from co-founder and CEO Sandy Gibson’s own experiences with death at a young age. Gibson was 10 years old when his father had a fatal stroke. One year later his mother died after fighting Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma for

You never forget someone dying, their funeral and their final resting place. I kept thinking there had to be a better way to do this. ­—Sandy Gibson five years. The suddenness of his father’s death prompted a hurried decision to purchase the last family plot at an old church cemetery in Toronto, despite the proximity to a heavily-trafficked street.

As he grew older and life took him to new and far away places, Gibson recounted the visits to his parents’ graves were anything but comforting.

“You never forget someone dying, their funeral and their final resting place,” Gibson said. “I kept thinking there had to be a better way to do this.”

Better Place Forests let their clients pick a tree for themself, a loved one, or even an entire family. Then a spreading ceremony is planned and this can incorporate everything from the time of the ceremony, to a song being played, to a signature cocktail served to the survivors.

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“You can’t make someone dying better, but you can give them some agency over it,” Gibson said.

For Mariposa County resident Dawn Leitzell, Better Place Forests was the right option for her husband Jim’s final resting place.

“Being in nature has always felt like home for me, especially this area near Yosemite,” Leitzell said.

“My husband, Jim, was a volunteer with the Mariposa Fire Department for 12 years and we both have valued being community members here. Jim was always passionate about art and seeing the beauty in life. He created amazing paintings of Yosemite, taught art at Columbia College for many years as well as locally here at Greeley Hill. To know that Better Place Forests will help protect this land that we love so much for future generations is inspiring. It brings me a great sense of relief and joy to know that we can have a tree as part of a bigger legacy of sustainability and protecting open spaces.”

Better Place Forests has nine conservation memorial forests in the country, with four in California. Trees start at around $4,900 and some of that cost goes to forest maintenance like cleaning out underbrush and overgrowth to lessen wildfire risk.

Better Place Forests Yosemite Gateway is currently taking $95 deposits for their Founders Circle.

Virtual tours will begin sometime this summer. ● For more information visit betterplaceforests.com.

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marketplace

By KRISTINA HACKER

209

Multimedia Corporation, which owns the 209 Magazine, announced in July the purchase of the Gustine Press Standard and Westside Index newspapers from Mattos Newspapers. The two newspapers, along with their websites and commercial printing operations, expands 209 Multimedia’s holdings from Manteca in San Joaquin County, through Oakdale, Ceres and Turlock in Stanislaus County and now Gustine in Merced County.

“We firmly believe that local community news organizations remain vital to our subscribers as the trusted local source for news and information. We provide a forum for community discussion, public notices, obituaries, wedding engagements, sporting/community

events, service organizations and everything else in-between. We are committed to fostering that environment while meeting the needs of all of our dedicated advertisers and subscribers,” said Hank Vander Veen, who along with his wife Kelly Vander Veen, own 209 Multimedia.

The Vander Veens have deep roots in the Valley.

Hank Vander Veen has been group publisher of the Manteca, Oakdale, Turlock, and Ceres papers in the Central Valley for almost a decade. Kelly Vander Veen has a background in digital management, commercial printing as well as newspapers. As owners, they oversee the operations and are responsible for all aspects of the business. This includes editorial, content, production and financial responsibility for six newspapers, several 209MAGAZINE.COM

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magazines and a digital services agency.

They are owners of the Manteca/ Ripon Bulletin, Turlock Journal, Ceres Courier, Oakdale Leader, Escalon Times and Riverbank News. They also own and publish 209 Magazine and several other specialty publications. 209 Multimedia publishes websites for all of its publications, has a video production studio and provides digital services for advertisers, including building and hosting their websites. 209 Multimedia has an extensive commercial printing operation printing 10-15 other newspapers and magazines each week.

Hank Vander Veen spent 25 years with The McClatchy Company, six years as publisher at the Merced Sun-Star. He started at The Modesto Bee in 1984 as a part time driver and worked his way

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— Hank Vander Veen

through different management positions learning many aspects of the business along the way.

Kelly Vander Veen grew up in the commercial printing industry as her dad owned Lone Tree printing in Ceres. She worked there for many years learning the ins and outs of the business.

Kelly Vander Veen also worked at The Modesto Bee in the finance department.

Over the past 15 years she has managed several digital platforms for companies including Wikia.

209 Multimedia has three offices and a team including four editors that live and work in the communities they cover and have been doing so for more than 80 combined years. 209 Multimedia prints all of its publications at their printing facility in Manteca. Current staff from

Mattos Newspapers will transfer over to the new company and we will maintain the office building on Fresno Street in Newman.

The West Side Index started publication well over 100 years ago in 1890; two years after Simon Newman had founded Newman. The Gustine Standard began publishing in 1910, three years after the sale of lots was held in what would become Gustine.

The Standard merged in 1995 with the Gustine Press, which Mattos Newspapers had started 10 years earlier.

Susan Mattos began her career with the newspaper and printing business in 1978, and has been publisher of the Index and Press-Standard since 2004.

She has carried forward the commitment to community journalism, with 209MAGAZINE.COM

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an emphasis on accuracy, accountability, objectivity and fairness and has expanded the commercial printing business from a simple one-color press operation to a multi-faceted company — commitments Vander Veen aims to continue.

“We are so pleased to have such a distinguished company step in to continue the long tradition of quality local journalism on the West Side,” Publisher Susan Mattos reflected. “Hank and Kelly share the same locally-focused values and high standards our readers have come to expect, and for that I am so grateful.”

209 Multimedia Corporation will continue the 132-year tradition of focusing on local coverage of the communities it serves as its most important mission. ●

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marketplace

COCOBEE COMPANY BRINGS

SUSTAINABLE CANDLES

TO THE 209

By SABRA STAFFORD

C

hristie Wallace loves candles.

It was nothing out of the ordinary for the Ripon resident to pick up a candle with an alluring scent that caught her attention. Or to unwrap one as a gift from the family and friends who knew her penchant for all types of candles.

But Wallace is also a woman that abhors waste and the growing pile of old glass candle containers stacked up in a kitchen cabinet haunted her.

“When you have a typical glass container… the quality isn’t made for multiple use,” Wallace said. “It’s made for a single use, to burn and then toss. It seemed so wasteful and I thought there had to be a better way.

“I wanted to build a candle company around the idea of sustainability and really change the burning habits we have by bringing a little more focus on the waste that is occurring with home decor and

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especially the candle industry.”

With that goal in mind and a year of research, Wallace launched CocoBee Company in October 2020 and started selling hand-crafted organic coconut wax and local ethically sourced beeswax candles. The candles come in hand-carved wooden bowls made from reclaimed wood that can later be used as dough bowls or cheese molds or refilled with another candle.

Wallace offers a refill program so that her candle vessels can be used repeatedly. She also does use some glass containers that are thicker and heavier than typical glass candle jars and so can be refilled twice. The wooden vessels can be used over and over again, as long as there are no cracks or holes.

Wallace’s enjoyment of candles prompted her to purchase a candlemaking kit and take it up as a hobby.

She saw she had a knack for it and started giving them as gifts to friends and family. Slowly the idea of selling

candles started to take shape.

“It got my wheels turning on what am I seeing and what am I not seeing in the candle market, and what am I looking for and why isn’t it out there,” Wallace said. “That led into a lot of research on a sustainable candle and the wax being used.”

For Wallace a sustainable candle means more than a refill program.

“I like to choose waxes and essential oils that are ethically sourced,” Wallace said. “I use coconut and bees waxes because they are sustainably harvested. The wicks I use comes from a company that plants new trees and is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.”

Wallace also makes wax drops, diffusers and recently launched candles using hemp wax. She also has plans to start offering natural cleaning products.

“I’m really excited about the hemp wax and to bring something new and

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different to our local market,” Wallace said.

CocoBee candles all have the signature bee emblem and can be found at stores in the 209 area, including Klean Eatz Market & Bakery in Ripon, Faux Glow Spray Tans and Boutique in Ripon, Mulberry Lane in Modesto, The Owl Box in Tracy, and on the CocoBee website.

Candles range in price from $29 to $65 depending on the size and vessel.

The refill costs range as well, but usually are half or less than the original candle. Those wanting the candles refilled typically drop it at the store where purchased, but Wallace does offer a refill kit for those out of the immediate area.

CocoBee candles come in a variety of scents and styles. Wallace can also do custom scents and orders.

For more information on CocoBee products or to order directly, visit cocobeecompany.com. ●

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 8:08:56 AM

Learn to Dive • Pool Parties Swim Lessons • Dive Travel 1212 Kansas, Modesto • 209-577-3483 www.aquaticdreams.com

Cruise on in for Fab Food & Cool Company Open 7 days for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 18341 Kennedy Road • Knights Ferry

Nudibranch, Photo taken by our Dive Travel Tour in Indonesia.

209-881-9400

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

QU

IT O

IS T

MOS

RIC T

TURLOCK

A B AT E M E N T

D

Stay Safe, Stay Informed!

• When outdoors, use EPA registered repellents like DEET, Picaridin or IR3535.

• Make sure windows and doors have tight fitting screens.

Call (209) 634-1234 209MAGAZINE.COM

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• Dump and Drain any Standing Water.

Asian Tiger Mosquito

186

OR visit us at www.turlockmosquito.org

to report mosquitoes or for more information.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

7/29/2021 6:39:19 AM

Open Tuesday - Friday 10am to 5:30pm Saturday 10am to 4pm • Closed on Sundays 221 S. Center Street, Turlock • 209-427-BACK www.backhomefurnitureanddecor.com Featuring John Michael Design Custom Sofas Custom Farmhouse Tables & Furniture - Staging Available - One of a Kind Pieces

by Local Artisans • Floor Samples - Custom Sofas

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7/26/2021 8:11:04 AM

Complete Kitchen Remodel Starting At

$20,000

• New Cabinets • Custom Countertops • Under Cabinet Lighting

• Flooring • Paint • Tile Backsplash

(PLUS) FREE FIRE CLAY FARM SINK WITH REMODEL Financing Available • *Restrictions May Apply • Lic #983435

Visit Our Showroom:

1120 McHenry Avenue, Modesto

209-521-4490 www.aakmodesto.com

Monday – Friday 9 am -5 pm, Saturday 10 am – 5 pm

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7/26/2021 8:10:36 AM